North Carolina State University Athletics
A Thank You From Herb Sendek
4/8/2002 12:00:00 AM | Men's Basketball
April 8, 2002
Dear Wolfpackers:
On behalf of our men's basketball team, I want to thank you for your tremendous support this past season. You provided encouragement when our young team needed it most. Six months ago, as we prepared for our 2001-02 season, I shared with you my excitement about our team. I believed we were capable of having a special year, but I also knew our young squad would need continued support from our Wolfpack family if we were going to reach our potential. I tried to assure you only of what I was sure of, that we would play with passion and never give up and that this team just might win the hearts of our fans before the season was over.
Our coaching staff could sense a fresh spirit of optimism, togetherness, and enthusiasm in our players. I knew we had talent. But, given our overall inexperience, I just didn't know how much or how quickly we could develop. Could we mature fast enough as a team to face the rigors of our non-conference schedule and the ACC season?
Success is a continual challenge, not a destination. But, I think we can say that our young team, motivated and energized by the leadership of our two remarkable seniors, Anthony Grundy and Archie Miller, achieved a measure of success this season. And while our players were greatly disappointed that we didn't go as far as we wanted in the NCAAs [but in most cases further than many thought possible when the season started], NC State Basketball took a major step forward on the national scene. Because of their tenacity and courage, this team captured the hearts of thousands of fans in a way reminiscent of so many of our great Wolfpack teams of the past.
Here are the hallmarks of this team that I'll remember: 1.) They were fun to coach and had fun playing, 2.) They consistently improved, continued to learn, and were playing their best basketball at the end of the season, and 3.) They played hard, smart and together. They played with poise, composure and confidence. And most importantly, they believed in themselves and refused to set limits on what they could accomplish.
What does the future hold? Well, you simply don't replace a unique backcourt like Anthony, an amazing player who led our team in virtually every category, and Archie, who, arguably, was the finest leader in college basketball. You adjust and move on with new players who can be successful in their own way and with their own style. That's what makes college athletics so special, helping young people develop.
Our players and coaching staff couldn't be more upbeat about the future of our program. We will return with still young, but experienced players who have been battle-tested. And the noteworthy part, they are on a mission to improve. They've experienced some success and understand the commitment required and are willing to make that effort. Perhaps most important though, is their spirit of teamwork. Maybe Archie Miller said it best after one of our tournament games when he told a reporter: "We're a basketball family. I know a lot of people say that. We mean it."
We want you to know how vital you are to our success. Your support at the ESA and through the Wolfpack Club makes you a key member of the Wolfpack Basketball Family. In large part, because of your loyalty, our players, coaches, and I have a greater passion than ever to build on the rich tradition of NC State Basketball. There will always be challenges to test us, but together we will be successful-and we can also take satisfaction in the journey. Go Wolfpack!
Sincerely,
Head Men's Basketball Coach
