Well, let’s give this a go. I’ll be the first to admit—I’m not a great writer. I’m no star athlete and pro-journalist like Zach Glubiak. I have big shoes to fill as well because the last Columbia basketball player to write for Spec was the beloved Kevin Bulger. When given the opportunity to write for the Spec, I jumped on it because through the highs and lows of the season, the Spectator has always been right there with us with support. Well, mostly.

This year was not only the year of a new coach but also the final season for four seniors who have given a lot to the program. People don’t realize the dedication it takes to be a Division I athlete at an Ivy League school. Whether it is getting up at 6 a.m. to get in a make-up lift or having to practice for three hours every day—all while taking a full course load—the schedule is very demanding. In the end, one can’t help but love the camaraderie that you experience while playing for a sports team. Whether it be Max Craig mumbling with his French accent or Coach Smith giving a motivational speech to the team, I know I won’t forget these four years of my life, and I know they won’t either.

With two big games coming up this weekend, the Lions have a chance to make their final mark on a great year. Starting with Yale on Friday and then Senior Night on Saturday vs. Brown, the Lions will take the court in front of a packed Levien Gym, or that’s what the word is around Morningside Heights. (Hint: COME TO THE GAMES!)

This weekend also marks the end of four great careers at Columbia—seniors Max Craig, Brian Grimes, Zack Crimmins, and Asenso Ampim. Each one of these seniors has dedicated a lot of time and effort to not only Columbia basketball but also to the Columbia community, which makes it only appropriate that everyone shows up to cheer them on one last time. (Again, hint, hint: COME TO THE GAMES

We are changing the culture of Columbia basketball, and the campus community is a huge part of that change. We can’t thank you enough for all your support. The energy and enthusiasm we feel as we take the court at Levien can’t be described in words. You have to be there. So be there! I’ll be on the court, but I’ll hear you, and I’ll love that you’re there. We all will.

Brian Barbour is a sophomore in Columbia College and a member of the varsity men’s basketball team.
sports@columbiaspectator.com