This morning NC State legend, David Thompson, was honored at the Cobo Convention Center in Detroit, at a breakfast to kick off the final four. Thompson, who lead North Carolina State University to an undefeated season (27-0) in 1973 (in which they were not eligible for the post-season), and then to an NCAA Men's Division I Basketball Championship in 1974, was given the John Wooden “Keys To Life” Award, established in 1998 by Athletes in Action and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. Thompson, a 3 time national player of the year who averaged 26 points per game as a Wolfpacker but became addicted to drugs after college, during his NBA career. He now talks openly about his struggle, his recovery and his faith. We as the Wolfpack family should be very proud of David and should be greatful that this man represents our University. This is an award we should be proud is now in the hands of a Wolfpacker. Here is what David is actually being honored for:
The “Keys to Life” Award will be presented annually to a member of the college or professional basketball community who is living out Coach Wooden’s 7 "Keys to Life," and who exemplifies outstanding character and leadership on the court, in the work place, in the home, and in the community.
Coach Wooden’s Keys to Life:
1. Be true to yourself.
2. Help others.
3. Make each day your masterpiece.
4. Drink deeply from good books, especially the Bible.
5. Make friendship a fine art.
6. Build a shelter against a rainy day.
7. Pray for guidance and give thanks for your blessings every day
We also came across this pretty cool piece about the Legend of David Thompson in the N&O and thought you might enjoy the read.
"David Thompson," Brown said, "was Michael Jordan before there was a Michael Jordan."
April 4, 2009
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3 Responses to "David Thompson Honored at Final Four"As a senior at State in 74 and a Cleveland County native I was lucky to be a year ahead of David in high school and college. A better person you'll not find. That team sort of spoiled us but I think we actually have a better overall foundation right now with the coach and committed recruits we have. Sloan was a legendary coach but I think Sid is the complete package of intelligence,hard work, ethics,patience, caring and foresight. He was my first (actually tied with Nate) choice for our coach and he is doing it the right way. If there was a learning curve it was last year and while we still had the system players. We will be in the top half of the conference next year and a national contender the next, even if we don't get Wall.
DT is da man and the greatest player ever in the acc.All wolfpack fans are so proud of him.
We'll be starting our "Jerseys in the Rafters" segments sometime next week.
We'll be coving more DT then.
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