Thank You, WKU Basketball

Dear WKU Basketball,

I will not sugarcoat it, the 2015-2016 season was rough (at least per WKU standards). It seemed like every time there was a glimmer of hope, misfortune would strike. From injury to the departure of a teammate, WKU could not catch a break. To make matters worse, too many fans were quick to criticize:  desperate for a swift turnaround and a dazzling record.

You could have called it quits. You could have played indifferently. But you never wavered in your dedication and commitment. Thank you.

You could have taken to social media to express frustration. You could have called out fair weather fans. But you remained mature adults. Your actions were so loud, it drowned out the criticism. Thank you.

You could have turned on each other. You could have blamed your teammates for mistakes. But you stuck together as a team should. Thank you.

Even when fans did not believe in the team, you were never fazed. Even when you were to play the #1 seed in the conference tournament, you never doubted. You DID NOT have a terrible season. The most remarkable part about the whole situation…the whole season…you pulled together during the conference tournament and looked SOLID. You ended on a high note.

To the 12 (give or take) returning players for the 2016-2017 season:  you have an edge against the competition. You have been down and made your way back. You know what it feels like to struggle. You know how to unite and defeat a favored team.

To Aaron, Nigel, and Aleksej:  thank you. You represented WKU with class – on and off of the court. We are all very proud of how you finished your playing careers at WKU. Thank you for sticking with the team through thick and thin.

My hope is that you are proud of yourselves. Do not be thankful that the season is over; instead, stay hungry. Remember all of your accomplishments. Remember your perseverance.

Thank you,

Hannah