Juwan Gary’s parents, Elisha and Kevin, have always been huge influences on his basketball journey. His mom is a former high school state champion, and his dad provides constant support.
After Juwan Gary, a fifth-year senior for Nebraska, fouled out in an 8 March game against Iowa, he shared a heartfelt moment with his teammates and opponents before leaving the court to a standing ovation.
Highlights
- Juwan’s mother, Elisha Gary, was a standout basketball player in high school, even winning a state championship.
- His father, Kevin, typically shares some advice or criticism, pointing out areas for Gary to work on.
- Gary was close to his parents, especially his mother, Elisha, but they all trusted Cooke’s judgment.
Gary was Nebraska’s second-highest scorer this season, with an impressive average of 13.7 points per game, setting a new career-high.
While many fans support him because of his role as a Cornhusker basketball player, Gary appreciated how people took the time to truly get to know him and his teammates on a deeper level.
Juwan Gary’s Journey From Family Support to College Preparation With Coach Cooke
Mom, Elisha always texts Gary during each game, so it’s the first thing he sees when he looks at his phone after the game.
After all, Elisha Gary was a standout basketball player in high school, even winning a state championship.
She kept her competitive spirit alive throughout Gary’s childhood, often playing one-on-one games with him in their front yard.
Kevin typically shares some advice or criticism, pointing out areas for Gary to work on. Whenever Gary was back the Carolinas, he visited the coach, Ed Cooke.
Well, Juwan’s love for basketball began early, when he took his first steps at nine months old.
Kevin’s father noticed his exceptional coordination and gave him a tennis ball.
Since then, basketball has been a continuous part of Juwan’s life, and he’s never had to step away from the game for an extended period.
When Cooke proposed that Gary live with him in Charlotte for his senior year of high school, it wasn’t an easy decision.
Gary was close to his parents, especially his mother, Elisha, but they all trusted Cooke’s judgment.
They saw this as a chance for Gary to gradually adjust to college life, just an hour away from home.
Cooke’s goal was to prepare Gary for the life he would experience at Alabama, where he committed over the summer.
Elisha also became more comfortable with the idea of her son being away.
While the training was intense, Gary also found time to visit his parents in Columbia on weekends.
He grew close to Cooke’s young children, who saw him as an older brother.
Additional Information
- Juwan Gary is a versatile player who can contribute both in the frontcourt and on the wing.
- Known for his defensive prowess, he is considered one of the top defenders in the Big Ten.
- In a recent game against Maryland, Gary led his team with seven rebounds while also contributing six points and a block.
