By Sylvester “Nunnie” Robinson
The Tuskegee men’s basketball team traveled to Fort Lauderdale, more specifically Nova Southeastern University in Davie to participate in the Division II South Regional against number two seed West Alabama. When Oscar Braynon, president of the South Florida Tuskegee Alumni Club, confirmed that our Golden Tigers would be flying to Fort Lauderdale, he immediately contacted the athletic director and Head Coach Bennjy Taylor and an entourage of 23 coaches, players, administrators and managers to arrange and confirm that SFTAC would provide dinner that Friday evening. Bokampers in Davie on Pine Island and Peters was selected as the venue. All in attendance appeared to have a wonderful time as all parties mingled, shared memories, met the talented young men who enjoyed tremendous success on the hardwood, winning 20 games and making the playoffs.
Despite falling short in the SIAC Championship earlier this week, the Golden Tigers men won over 20 games for the first time in nine years, ranking among the top eight in the region throughout the year.
Senior Gregg Boyd, a guard from Seat Pleasant, Maryland and Senior Devin Booker, a guard from Chicago, were named to the first and second TIAA SIAC men’s all-conference team for their hard work.
The game proved exciting though challenging as the Golden Tigers dominated the first half by playing tenacious defense, making timely outside shots and executing the game plan. Leading by eight points heading into the second half, the Golden Tigers seem to lose momentum, scoring only free throws for nearly the first 10 minutes of the second half. West Alabama, who took advantage of several second chance opportunities via offensive rebounds, seized the day in the second half, employing a stifling combination man/zone defense, preventing the Golden Tigers from dominating inside play in the paint. They also penetrated Tuskegee’s defense by driving to the hoop and shot the ball extremely well in second half. Our Tigers fell behind but fought gallantly throughout the entire contest, making the more than 30-40 alumni, family and friends awfully proud, giving them a standing ovation as they dejectedly left the floor. President Braynon also feted the team to breakfast the following morning. We all love to win and though that wasn’t the reality this time, the future under Coach Taylor appears extremely bright. SFTAC members, alumni, and friends of Tuskegee look forward to a return trip next year. Wait on it!
TU – U Knowwwwww
