When people think of college basketball, they usually picture buzzer beaters, roaring crowds, and March Madness glory. But for me, basketball has always meant more than just the game. It’s been a platform to connect with others, especially those who are often overlooked. Throughout my life—from my early years in San Antonio to my four years as a walk-on at LSU—basketball has given me incredible experiences. But even more important, it’s given me opportunities to serve.
A Passion That Started Early
My passion for working with individuals with special needs began long before I stepped onto a college basketball court. In middle school, I volunteered in a classroom for students with special needs. At first, I was just there to help out. But over time, I realized how much I looked forward to those interactions—the smiles, the laughter, the sense of trust. It was the kind of connection that went beyond words or labels.
In high school, I became a member of SASO (Student Athletes Serving Others), which deepened my understanding of what it means to lead through service. We hosted events, volunteered in the community, and worked closely with different groups—including the Special Olympics. That experience showed me how sports could bring people together, no matter their background or ability.
Basketball at LSU: More Than the Scoreboard
Being a walk-on at a big SEC school like LSU was both a dream and a challenge. I wasn’t always in the spotlight, but I showed up every day with energy, focus, and a team-first mindset. I took pride in doing the little things—pushing teammates in practice, staying locked in on the bench, and representing the program with integrity.
One of the best parts of being on the team wasn’t just the basketball—it was the chance to give back. LSU Athletics gave us several opportunities to participate in community outreach. We visited local schools, hosted youth basketball clinics, and spent time with kids who looked up to us not just as athletes, but as role models.
Some of the most meaningful moments for me were the events that focused on inclusion. Playing with kids from the Special Olympics, cheering them on, and seeing their joy reminded me of why I started volunteering in the first place. It wasn’t about being a star. It was about showing up for people, making them feel seen and valued, and letting the game do the talking.
Inclusion Is a Team Effort
Basketball teaches so many lessons: teamwork, discipline, perseverance. But it also teaches empathy—if you’re paying attention. Inclusion isn’t just about inviting someone to join the team; it’s about creating a space where they feel like they truly belong.
I’ve seen firsthand how powerful it can be when we use the game as a bridge instead of a barrier. Whether it’s through unified sports, inclusive clinics, or simply being present and kind, athletes have a real opportunity to lead by example.
Inclusion also means listening—really listening—to people’s stories and perspectives. Not everyone’s journey is the same, but everyone deserves the same amount of respect and opportunity. That mindset carries over not just in basketball, but in coaching, leadership, and life in general.
Why It Matters Now More Than Ever
As I look ahead to my goal of coaching at the university level, I’m reminded that the best coaches do more than draw up plays—they shape people. They invest in the whole person, not just the player. And that includes encouraging their teams to serve the community and be part of something bigger than themselves.
We’re living in a time where sports are more visible than ever. With platforms like NIL and social media, college athletes have massive influence. That’s why it’s even more important to use that platform for good—to champion causes, to stand up for others, and to create moments of connection and kindness.
When you give back through the game, you’re not just helping someone else—you’re also growing yourself. You gain perspective. You build character. And you remember why you fell in love with the game in the first place.
Final Thoughts
Basketball has taken me on an incredible journey—from the courts of San Antonio to the locker rooms of LSU. But the moments I cherish most aren’t always the ones on the scoreboard. They’re the ones where the game allowed me to reach people, build relationships, and give something back.
To anyone in sports—whether you’re a player, coach, or fan—I’d challenge you to look at how you can use the game to serve others. It doesn’t take much. Sometimes it’s just showing up, offering encouragement, or sharing the court with someone who’s never had the chance.
Because when we use basketball to include and uplift, it becomes more than just a game—it becomes a gift.