Sports Talk: Patience Pays off at GW

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SENIOR DAY AT George Washington University Saturday was bittersweet for one graduating Colonial.

Forward Dokun Akingbade has played his whole career in the shadows of Foggy Bottom greats such as Pops Mensah Bonsu, Mike Hall and Carl Elliott. But on Saturday, the spotlight was finally on him — and he loved every minute of it in the 88-80 win over Duquesne.

Akingbade, a fifth-year senior, started as a walk-on in 2002. He saw limited action during both his freshman and sophomore years, but by the time his junior year rolled around, he was a full-time scholarship player. That year, he became an important part of the Colonials' 22-8 campaign and first Atlantic 10 title.

However, GW head coach Karl Hobbs asked Akingbade to redshirt last season. He went along with his coach's request, but admits it was a tough decision.

"I knew I could have helped to make the team better, but if I sat out I was going to have more opportunities this year," Akingbade said.

Akingbade has taken every advantage of his extra year of eligibility by becoming a captain and true leader on the team. He is averaging 7.1 points per game and is the team's leading rebounder, corralling 5.6 boards per contest.

He also has helped a "rebuilding" GW squad go 20-8, finishing with the league's third best record (12-5) going into the A-10 tournament. The Colonials face Saint Joseph's on Thursday night.

Hobbs said he can't imagine this team without the forward.
"His desire to improve as a player and a person and desire to win are unmatched and have brought us success and will bring him much success in the future."

Written by Express contributor Drew Rifkin
Photo by John McDonnell/The Washington Post