This February, as the country recognizes Black History Month, LMU Athletics is celebrating and documenting those who made us great.
 
In collaboration with the LMU Office of Black Student Services, we will pay tribute to alumni by sharing short interviews and recognizing individuals at upcoming men's and women's basketball games. In our interviews, former student-athletes reflect on their time at LMU, provide advice to current Lions, and share what Black History Month means to them personally. We begin this week with former men's basketball star Sherman Gay
 
What is it that you honestly miss about this University? 
I miss my Lion b-ball teammates. Practices at Gersten Pavilion. The games. Walking the bluff.  Having to sit in the first 3 rows of class even though I did not want too.  
 
If you could give the current student-athletes any piece of advice, what would it be?
Enjoy the moment. I remember thinking so many times how we had it harder than most because we had to go to school, study, and then have practice and games while the regular students had so much more free time.  Enjoy the time you do have because the four years will go by fast.
 
Share your favorite university or athletic event you've attended since your graduated and what made it special to you?
To tell the truth, I have not had a chance to come to many events because I have been out the country playing most of the years following graduation from LMU. This year, I did get to attend an open practice with the men's basketball team with another former teammate Daryl Pegram.  What made it special was seeing the guys work and remembering my times on that court.  Also, it was good to catch up with Keith Ellison. He was a trainer when I played and he is still there doing a great job.
 
What are you grateful for?
I am grateful for a lot of things: Family, friends, for my time at LMU it helped me to get to the next step in my basketball career. It helped me to get to continue playing and traveling around the world to do it.
 
What does Black History Month mean to you?
I think black history month is a great time to reflect and look back and acknowledge some of the great things and people and what they have accomplished over the years.  A lot of times we forget the people who have paved the way for where we are today.  
 
What occupies your time now?
Right now, I am currently in France.  Playing basketball for a team in the 2nd division.  I started out my career in France. I have been blessed to play a long time.  Not sure, but this may be my farewell tour! So, I am enjoying the moment and playing against old teammates from the past as well as coaches.