Monday, March 10, 2008

#44

I could write for days on the respect I have for Sean Singletary; I am grateful for his contributions to the UVA basketball program and his general character.

Feb. 19th 2005, I remember sitting in a hotel room in West Palm Beach, screen door open to catch the breeze from the ocean and enjoy an escape from DC for President's Day weekend. UVA v. UMD, not expecting much, but was blown away by the competitiveness, aggressiveness, and overall demeanor of #44. He abused John Gilchrist with an array of moves and misdirections. Unfortunately, his efforts extended the game for 10 minutes, but couldn't produce the win.

A win on Senior Night over Maryland and surpassing 2000 points was deserving closure on a season which didn't meet UVA expectations. The team was plagued with countless frontcourt injuries. Lacking support, #44 drove recklessly to the hoop (innately) and found the floor more than he found the foul line. He's got a short memory, as it didn't stop him, or temper his game instincts.

Funny how my most vivid memories of #44 come in losses (2005 UMD, 2007 NCAA v. UT, and his subsequent collapse on the court). #44 is a competitor who will be missed at UVA, and a departing cause for celebration throughout the ACC.

Thank you #44.

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