By Donnie Niehaus
Players, coaches and fans shared a bittersweet moment in Freedom Hall on Thursday, March 3, as they honored four departing athletes.
Before playing their final home game against Charlotte, graduating seniors Ellis Myles, Larry O’Bannon and Otis George, along with NBA-bound Francisco Garcia, were recognized for their contributions to the university and to Louisville basketball.
The evening’s poignant but exciting events were especially memorable for some fans. “This class has been fun to watch and one that I will deeply miss. Tonight was fun and watching Larry [O’Bannon] drop a career high was exhilarating,” U of L sophomore Evan Buckley said following Thursday night’s home game against Charlotte. “They are playing superb basketball, so I expect to continue watching them in April,” he added.
While all the departing players received a warm Freedom Hall reception, O’Bannon’s reception was a little more profound. A Louisville native, O’Bannon received the most response from the crowd, and deafening chants of “Larry, Larry, Larry …” were heard several times during the game. The fact that he also happened to score a career-high 33 points only encouraged the sold-out crowd of 20,068 to chant his name.
Pitino admitted how special O’Bannon is to the program. “Larry was a big part of our success tonight. He was brilliant in all phases of the game, and it really is a Hollywood ending for a very special man.”
U of L sophomore Jerry Jacobs enjoyed the careers of all the players. “I have been following these guys ever since I was here. They have been fun to watch and more than nice to me off the floor. They are great players, but better people,” Jacobs said. “I only hope the best for them and really think they have great futures ahead.”
While some question Garcia’s departure to the NBA, his place in Cardinal basketball history will always be strong. Alumnus and former athlete Teddy Banya said he will always remember Garcia. “He is a tremendous talent and it has been fun taking my three kids to every game to watch him play. Is he physically ready for the NBA? What do I know? But I do know he has the heart and character to play at that level. We are going to miss him.”
After the game, Pitino gave each player the opportunity to say something to the crowd. While everyone thanked their friends, family and fans, Garcia with his charming nature humored the crowd by beginning to speak in his native Spanish. This was well-received and a good cap on an emotional night. All four of the departing players have meant so much to the Louisville program. A long run in the NCAA tournament will only further their impact on the university, but a deep run in March could cement these four players as legends.
