Kirk Wessler

Kirk WesslerKirk Wessler is executive sports editor and columnist for the Peoria (Ill.) Journal Star. A 1977 graduate of Bradley University, he previously worked for the Columbia (Mo.) Daily Tribune and the Dallas Times-Herald. He serves on the board of directors for the U.S. Basketball Writers Association.

Kirk Wessler's Columns

Character leads all other attributes for Ogwumike and Hummel

April 09, 2012

LOWES SENIOR CLASS WINNERS/BASKETBALL

By KIRK WESSLER

Of the four C’s at the heart of the Lowe’s Senior CLASS Award, one serves as the foundation for the rest.  Character underpins everything.  Almost by definition, individuals of high Character perform well in the Classroom and in athletic Competition, and are inclined to Community service.

“It would be much more difficult… Continue Reading…

Fredette, Moore accomplish what few others can because they were seniors

April 06, 2011

Maya Moore led Connecticut to 150 victories and two NCAA women’s basketball championships.  Jimmer Fredette led Brigham Young to 114 victories, four NCAA bids and the school’s first Sweet 16 appearance in 30 years.

Two players, 264 victories.

When it comes to intercollegiate competition, only seniors have a chance to pile up numbers like those. And few who have the chance are able to achieve such a level of team success, but when they do, other accolades aren’t far behind.

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Seniors rock and rule during March Madness

February 15, 2010

You want a solid tip on upset specials when America immerses itself in the serious fun of filling out NCAA tournament brackets this March? Here it is.

Look for teams with senior leadership.

Whether it’s the mid-major 12 seed challenging the marquee 5, or a battle of bluebloods for the national championship, seniors tend to rock and rule. Just look at the past decade of NCAA champions. Where there weren’t senior stars—Michigan State’s Matteen Cleaves and Mo Peterson, Duke’s… Continue Reading…