Taking “Pro-Cougs” to another level!
Good evening, Coug fans!
This is an exciting time to be an American, obviously in regards to the 2024 Olympic Games. But you might be thinking, Emma- yes, it’s so fun to watch Simone Biles absolutely shatter the state of gymnastics and crush everyone in her compact, game changing path. But what does this have to do with Washington State University?
Let’s take a walk back to 2013/14 Men’s Basketball. It was the home stretch of the Ken Bone era, the Cougs went 10-21 overall, 3-15 in conference play. The bright light? It was Josh Hawkinson’s Freshman season. A 6’10” Forward from Shorline, Washington- who is now third on the list of all time double-double rankings (40 career and he only played three seasons), 700 career rebounds, and 69 blocked shots.
Hawkinson is currently playing for the Japan men’s basketball team! He became a citizen last year, after playing on the Sunrockers, where, this past season, he led the team not only in points (17) but also rebounds (8).
Yesterday, he helped Japan put up a valiant effort against the French team, led by Victor Wembanyama. That name should emphasize enough how Japan holding the line, and falling 94-90 is an achievement. In that game, Hawkinson put up 16 points, 8 rebounds, and an assist- out-performing the star rookie during regulation. This brought Hawkinson’s Olympic totals to a grand 29 points, 19 rebounds, 3 assists, and 2 steals over the course of two games.
Japan isn’t out of contention yet- they’ll just have a harder hill to climb. It’s a true test of State over Country. Come on- had to make one joke!
Another familiar face representing (ish) WSU? Trinity Rodman!
I believe she counts- while she was never able to actually play for the Cougs, she attended in 2020 (until COVID, that is), and was set to star on the soccer team before realizing her dreams of going pro. While stateside, she crushes it on the Washington Spirit- but in Paris, she’s helping Team USA make a big push. You can read a recap of yesterdays match here!
Go Pro Cougs!