In the world of selfish athletes who chase stardom and the big bucks on a grand stage, there is something to be said for dedication. Not loyalty to an athlete’s own pursuits, but an unwavering commitment to the single most important, but often marginalized, aspect of sports: team.
This past Saturday, sitting courtside, I was praying and hoping that our Hoyas would quell the Orange Crush, not because I wanted it for myself, but because I wanted it for the five senior ballers who had yet to experience the jubilation of sending an archrival back home with its tail between its legs.
Brandon Bowman, Ashanti Cook, Darrel Owens, Amadou Kilkenny-Diaw and Ryan Beal have each spent four, or in DJ’s case, five years on the Hilltop and have unselfishly given of themselves to this university, its administrators, coaches and fans. This group has endured arguably the most difficult tenure of any class on the hilltop since Big John took the reigns from Jack Magee in 1972. After stepping on campus in 2002, they have strapped themselves in for the proverbial roller coaster ride: from the high of a 19-15 rookie campaign to the lows of a losing season (the team’s second since 1973), a coaching change, the team’s first season without a postseason invitation in 30 years and doubters barking all over the country.
In today’s culture of college basketball, the common player would have done what these men did not. They did not search for excuses or pity. Despite Bowman’s thoughts of transferring after his first season, he stayed, along with his four teammates. As a result, they have ended up returning pride to Georgetown basketball.
They have fought an uphill battle, but they deserve a large amount of credit for helping put Hoya basketball back on the national map. There were no cries for help or pleas to concerned fans to end their criticisms of the team. They knew that the only way they could change people’s minds and change the state of basketball here at Georgetown was through hard word and perseverance.
Now, it is safe to say that their steadfast belief in Georgetown has given rise to confidence in them among the fans. I think everyone realizes the enormous value each of these players brings to the court, as well as to the world outside McDonough. People feel comfortable watching Owens spot up for a three and they now know that Ashanti can knock down critical free throws to win big games on the road. After watching his development this season, Brandon’s appreciation for hustle and defense has become evident, even when he is not hitting his shots. I think people now realize that when Amadou comes on the court he is going to give his squad valuable minutes and that Ryan’s effort in practice plays an important role in preparing his teammates for action.
After witnessing a victory that hasn’t happened for almost four years last Saturday, I was reminded of how this happened. It wasn’t just by chance, but through a methodical and sometimes difficult process that put Hoyas basketball where it is now. The foundation that has brought us to this point may be moving on, but their contributions will never be forgotten.
