I was at both the game and the banquet yesterday

Posted on: July 23, 2017 at 19:40:03 CT

Was somewhat apprehensive that the whole deal would be a fiasco, but it was far from it. Carroll and Bowers are both sensational ambassadors, and at the banquet, both spoke about their experiences in Columbia at Mizzou, and that the protests were highly exaggerated and did not fit with their memories. Both called for basketball and football alumni to "get with it" and help support the program. "Neither of us were huge recruits out of high school, but through Mizzou, we have been able to make good livings for our families," Bowers said. Both consider Columbia their homes.

Sterk and Odom were at the banquet the entire time. Cuonzo was out of town recruiting but sent a message. Every single athlete, as well as Odom and Sterk, were completely approachable and willing to talk, take pictures, etc. A couple friends and I sat with DeMarre, Weatherspoon, Rickey Paulding and Jason Sutherland for about 30 minutes. Sutherland said he had not touched a basketball for at least four years until he practiced a little bit last week in preparation for the game. It didn't show. Great event.