
The University of Washington Huskies Athletic Director Jennifer Cohen announced Wednesday afternoon that the school had parted ways with Men’s Basketball Coach Lorenzo Romar. Romar had just completed his 15th season at the University of Washington
PURPLE AND GOLD BLOOD
The decision could not have been an easy one for Cohen as she had to let one of her own go. The Compton, California., native Romar was a two-year starter on the UW men’s’ basketball team. Romar was named team captain for the 1979-80 season, prior to earning his degree and being selected by the Golden State Warriors in the 1980 NBA Draft.
During his coaching time at UW, Romar was named conference coach of the year three times, and guided the Huskies to three regular-season conference crowns and three conference tournament championship. Romar was honored at the 2006 Final Four as the recipient of the John Wooden ” Keys to Life” Award.
What made Romar unique was his integrity and character when it came to coaching on and off the court. Romar helped a countless number of young adults grow up and become thriving and productive men in society. That’s not counting all the young men he helped realize their dreams and play in the NBA.
Brandon Roy, Isaiah Thomas, Nate Robinson Spencer Hawes, Justin Holiday, Quincy Pondexter, Terrence Ross, C.J Wilcox, Tony Wroten are just a few of the names who have Romar to thank for helping them reach the NBA. Another player soon to add to the list will be Markelle Fultz the All-American Freshmen Guard who has chosen to enter the upcoming NBA Draft. Fultz is projected to be the number one pick in the draft.
GOOD GUYS FINISH FIRST
The immediate question is what effect will the firing of Romar have on the School’s incoming recruits. The incoming class of Michael PorterJr, Daejon Davis, Jaylen Nowell Blake Harris, Mamadou Diarra and Michael’s brother Jontay Porter has been rated as the best class in UW history. There is no one definite answer except that only time will tell.
One thing that is certain, when the dust settles and the emotions subside, Lorenzo Romar will be remembered as more than just a basketball player. He is and will be remembered as a coach, mentor and father figured who helped many young men become adults in a world short of compassionate and caring males.