I really wish they would retire Devin Davis 42. I think he was the most impactful and meaningful player from the glory years of my Miami basketball existence (which is after Harper). We had a lot of good teams in the 1990s and Wally was a NBA player and a good pro- but Devin Davis was the most important player on 1 really good and 3 straight great Miami basketball teams.
The 1998-1999 Wally year was a better player and slightly better team- but Devin was unbelievable from the opening game vs Xavier until the end including the best game I ever saw Miami play as a team- a 20 point victory in the 1997 MAC title game vs a loaded Eastern Michigan team (i think they had two pros on that team)
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: no Miami sports alum is more inspiring than Ira. His human rights work is well known and his story of going from Miami to the NBA (and the finals no less) is never recognized by men’s b-ball. It’s always Wally Wally Wally from that generation. And yes, DD was a force, but Ira’s defense maybe a notch above.
Don’t anybody worry about Devin’s financial situation. He has made millions overseas. Had a big contract in Russia.
A funny story: When we played in the NCAA in Kansas City Devin’s sr year, a few of us drove from Mich and Ohio to KC. We stayed at the team hotel. After the game, Devin, Damon and a few other guys were in playing pool. I knew Devin quite well as I was a regular. I went up to him and thanked him for everything he had done and accomplished for Miami bball. I then said, “I hope you make millions of dollars playing bball” He responded, “Me too, baby. Me too.” Never forget that.
Great guy. Had a class with Devin - fierce, and a kind soul. Great ambassador for MU bball. Hoping to see more celebration of past success to motivate the present.
