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Topic: Congratulations BOY!!!

Topic: Congratulations BOY!!!

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bornacatfan
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Member Since: 8/3/2006
Post Count: 5,716

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Congratulations BOY!!!

Posted: 6/16/2011 12:04:58 PM

Nice JOb SOn

August of 06 you called me from Vegas BIG TIME Tourney after losing to Eric Gordon and Derrick Rose in the semi fianls and said "I'm going to Ohio". YOu were the 3rd kid in Indiana to commit that year. You said " I want to go somewhere I can play right away and leave a mark." I tried to talk you into waiting as several school were expressing interest after the July you had but you knew Coach Rhodes had been on you for some time and you had a love for the University that came when we memorialized your Gramps at the Willed Body Service in 04. After hours of talk I said well then I guess it's Ohio as you were truly sold...even without meeting the head coach....we Drove down the Next Weekend despite the assts saying "Coach is still out east so you can't meet him" and we ran in to the Ox ROast with Big John showin us and another guy named KVK wh ohad just landed that day around the campus and introducing us to many Cat fans. GOt to meet a lot of people that day who remain friends to this day.

YOu have made me proud. When you weren't getting run your freshman year you got in the gym at midnight and worked and worked till the man who did not have an acquired taste for your game had to play you. Every year presented you new challenges and you stood tall whether it meant guarding Samardo Samuels or competing with talented players the new staff brought in who had been recruited to move you off your spot. Never flinching, never wavering and swallowing your individual pride for good of the team more times than I care to remember. You played through injuries like bruised ribs, broken fingers on your shooting hand, broken nose and a foot stress fracture as well as a bicep torn off the attachement, and you did it silently without complaint. You kept good friends and treated COurt Street with respect, rarely missed class even after games getting home at 3 am and visibly showed up and supported all the other sports with Ohio pride.

You and teh volleyball girls you came in with have been great examples for all to follow both on and off the court. YOu did not get all the goals you wanted, 4 years of post season play and similar goals eluded you but you did what I ask of every kid I taught the game of basketball. Every time you stepped inside those lines you put your best effort and all your heart into it for the duration of that moment, you competed every play , every possession and made the most of every minute in practice and games. YOu have learned the game far beyond what I could have taught you and far more completely than most of those standing onthe same court. SO many plays I have seen you do amazing things that go unoticed. Taking a way a back door cut, standing in and taking a charge while your team mate got hung on a pick up top, Keeping your arms straight up while bodying up a player and avoiding the foul to disrupt the shot. That is textbook and what every coach tries to teach when they yell "dont drop your arms as every ref looks for that arm to come forward and call the foul......SO many things you do on the court that go unnoticed by all but the most astute of students of the game of basketball. I appreciate your effort to learn the game inside and out and execute, anticipate and know what your assignement and that of everyone around you is to be. As told to me by a long time fan you have become his favorite Bobcat because of the adversity you "faced on and off the court being recruited by a coach who did not like your game to being recruited over by the new staff...he just hung on to that starting spot and did everything he could each game to will us to win", . I love talking to Charlie Coles and Geno and hear about the hell you wreaked on their defenses and see the total respect they have for your game and the mark you have left on those guys who know. I watched the respect last weekend at Black Expo as guys from all level of basketball sought you out to hug up and recount a moment they had seen you play. I enjoyed listening to Evan Turner recount his memories of you scorching them and taking charges  THat so many guys want you on their team is a testament that you earned your way to respect. That you backed that up with another Black Expo championship and trophy is becoming legendary in Indiana. The funniest moments of my life come when someone outside basketball asks "are you good?" and your stock answer comes out .."I'm allright". Humble and as you have so often told players on the court "shut up and birng it bitch, let your game do the talking". A great philosophy you have developed that I have talked to many young players about in this age of ESPN highlights and all talk, little action.

The best part of what you have done for me as a parent or caoch is that you have contantly loved and repsected the game. In return it has loved and given to you many opportunities. NOt all players get that concept and constantly struggle and tweet about the grind and how it is such a dialy death march and pray to heaven for assistance...... Easy to tell the guys who just love the GAME and let the game come to them as players coaches or similar. YOu have a place in Indiana history amking the state 4a title game twice, you still hold the top 2 spots for charges taken in a season and the game is providing you a chance to go overseas and play. Respect it, Enjoy it and embrace it....it has the power to reward or reject. Teach the love and respect for the game as you pass through. Pass on that which your great gramps gave my dad, he gave to me and I gave to you. Cherish it. Those who get it see playing as a gift not a grind. You are an inspiration for many, impart that wisdom.

When your mom died you dedicated your season to her, she would be proud of that year. Some of those records may stand awhile. You have found friends in SEO that will be with you for liife, as have I. You have supported yourself and never asked for anything, collecting aluminum cans and living off the money generated by thousands of beer swilling Ohio students littering lawns you built your own little enterprise. YOu learned the hard way about the world and you have owned up to your parking tickets paying them with your own money.YOu even paid for "that white peice of shit" you drive with your own money, not accepting much help along the way and laughing in the face of the man who targeted your vehicle. Parking services may target the athletes and laugh about MOm and Dad paying for it but the reality is that you owned your mistakes. Shame on them. Taking care of your own mistakes goes straight to character and will benefit you greatly inthe years to come. That you have learned that sets me a apart from the parents who fund their kids bad behaviour. Thanks boy. With your trifectaoutdoors.com website and your beer can enterprise you impress me with your spirit and inner drive. I will never forget that basement over on Palmer that had several hundred sacks of cans waiting for the priceof aluminum to come back up or driving a pick up truck full and a trailer loaded with cans around 270 in Cols because the price was higher in IN and you had no more room in that basement. The collection of Coke reward points gleaned from looking in dumpsters and tearing them off empty cases and subsequent bundling and selling on Ebay is american ingenuity at its best.  NIce work white boy. I have complete faith in your abiity to survive.

I watch you after games and at the camps you work and with tears in my eyes remember when you were that kid at Ball State and UK asking Petey, Bonzi, Magliore or the player coach you raved most about , Marvin Stone for their autograph. I am so very happy that you take the time to pay it back the way the players before you did for you. That you take a moment extra and look in a kids eyes and encourage him maybe the moment that spurs him on to greater things. Keep that up, you are truly one of those guys who can and does inspire. Looks like you will be getting a chance to take your act overseas and impress a whole new crowd. Hopefully that works well and when are done and no longer have the desire to PLAY the game you return and if you still want to coach you can teach the game as well and as fundaemental as you play it. Youcan count on me being in the gym when have your own team. (Duh!)

YOu have an Ohio degree and all the tools you need to go into this world and kick a big dent in your corner. I will always be there for you. I am proud of you man. As I look at all the great men I have met in my life, and you know who they are from Grampa Freeman to Cliff Barker and all those great men I have pointed out to you along the way, explaining who they are and poointing out their deeds, making you shake hands and talk to them teaching you  who the truly heroic figures are in this world are, I am proud to say you have, in my eyes, joined that list through your actions, inspiration and deed and have forever become one of my own personal heroes. Way to leave a mark. YOu were right all along,,,,"they don't hang jerseys for Glue Guys, Pops". It does not matter because no one around here will ever forget you and where your place in Ohio Athletics is .....  I love you, little man. Congrats.

never argue with idiots, they bring you down to their level and beat you with experience.

Winter comes and asks how you spent your summer.....

The game loves and rewards those who love and reward the game

Jeff McKinney
Moderator

Member Since: 11/12/2004
Post Count: 6,155

Status: Offline

RE: Congratulations BOY!!!

Posted: 6/16/2011 4:58:13 PM

I'll tell you a personal anecdote...back in Oct. 2009 when my wife was having a very serious, life-changing surgery, Tommy took the time from his busy schedule to send me a text to encourage us. He is far more than a hoops junkie.

I agree that he, along with Tunji and Asown, have the life skills to make an impact on this world, whether in basketball or in some other occupation. You guys have my prayers for a long, healthy, successful life.

Doc Bobcat
General User

Member Since: 12/20/2004
Post Count: 4,280

Status: Offline

RE: Congratulations BOY!!!

Posted: 6/16/2011 5:26:42 PM

Borna's post might be the best one ever on this forum.

OhioCatFan
General User

Member Since: 12/20/2004
Location: Athens, OH
Post Count: 14,762

Status: Offline

RE: Congratulations BOY!!!

Posted: 6/16/2011 6:20:47 PM

Very nice tribute to your son, borna. I know that TF reciprocates his dad's love as expressed in this very emotional and laudatory post.

The only BLSS Certified Hypocrite on BA

"It is better to be an optimist and be proven a fool than to be a pessimist and be proven right."

Note: My avatar is the national colors of the 78th Ohio Veteran Volunteer Infantry, which are now preserved in a climate controlled vault at the Ohio History Connection. Learn more about the old 78th at: http://www.78ohio.org

BuddyLee
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Member Since: 12/20/2004
Post Count: 682

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RE: Congratulations BOY!!!

Posted: 6/16/2011 7:39:48 PM

I'd take 13 Tommy Freemans on my team any day. Probably the most dependable guy we've had on and off the floor over the last four years. Definitely made me proud to be an alum and basketball supporter and you will be long remembered around campus and by the people on this board.

By the way, any info on where Tommy will be playing overseas?

RSBobcat
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Member Since: 8/22/2010
Location: Columbus, OH
Post Count: 4,437

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RE: Congratulations BOY!!!

Posted: 6/16/2011 9:45:00 PM

Thanks Borna - this is what it's really all about!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

RS Bobcat

The Optimist
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Member Since: 3/16/2007
Location: CLE
Post Count: 5,597

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RE: Congratulations BOY!!!

Posted: 6/16/2011 10:54:00 PM

Thanks Borna, great post.

The can business intrigues me, think I could do well on the corner of Palmer and Mill this year.

I've seen crazier things happen.

Monroe Slavin
General User

Member Since: 12/20/2004
Location: Oxnard, CA
Post Count: 9,121

Status: Offline

RE: Congratulations BOY!!!

Posted: 6/16/2011 10:57:19 PM

Great post, great kid, great dad, great family.

Apple = Tree.

Where's the band?!
WHERE"S THE BAND?!

DesignspiritUSA.com
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Bob Haldeman
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Member Since: 1/1/2005
Location: Parkersburg, WV
Post Count: 149

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RE: Congratulations BOY!!!

Posted: 6/17/2011 2:09:35 AM

Mike Coleman
Administrator

Member Since: 12/21/2004
Location: Near the Pristine Sandy Shores of Lake Erie, OH
Post Count: 1,643

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RE: Congratulations BOY!!!

Posted: 6/17/2011 7:25:46 AM

(hits imaginary "Like" button)

Dan's Mom
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Member Since: 2/23/2006
Location: Canal Fulton, OH
Post Count: 84

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RE: Congratulations BOY!!!

Posted: 6/17/2011 8:34:54 AM

Thanks to both Tommy and Dad

giacomo
General User

Member Since: 11/20/2007
Post Count: 2,734

Status: Offline

RE: Congratulations BOY!!!

Posted: 6/17/2011 1:10:12 PM

I tip my hat to Tommy! He did that rare combination of being a good player (scoring 1000 pts) and graduating in 4 years. You don't see that too much any more and it's an impressive accomplishment.

UpSan Bobcat
General User

Member Since: 8/30/2005
Location: Upper Sandusky, OH
Post Count: 3,812

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RE: Congratulations BOY!!!

Posted: 6/17/2011 1:46:05 PM

Ohio Unviersity surely miss Tommy on the court and off. Good luck to him and the other graduated seniors in whatever they choose to do.

OUVan
General User

Member Since: 12/20/2004
Location: Bethesda, MD
Post Count: 5,580

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RE: Congratulations BOY!!!

Posted: 6/17/2011 2:14:54 PM

I can't believe the four years are already over. Really it's five since we started following his career at Muncie Central. There are so many moments that stick out in his career but the perfect one for me is Greg Monroe barreling down on him on a fast break after a turnover. Tommy just stood in there and took the knee to the chest from this 260 lb mountain of a man for the charge. We are going to miss his three point shooting but that will be the easiest part of his game to replace. We notice the stat stuffers. That's never going to be Tommy although I think he could have been (to the detriment of the team mind you). If basketball gave two assists Tommy would be among the leaders in assists. Obviously if charges were kept officially he'd be among the leaders there as well. If help defense was kept he'd be up there too. I just think about what Leon could have done if he'd had three years of Tommy and DJ.

Anyway, great tribute Tom.

BobcatGman
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Member Since: 7/7/2010
Location: Albany, OH
Post Count: 252

Status: Offline

RE: Congratulations BOY!!!

Posted: 6/17/2011 6:23:05 PM

   The memories Tommy and I have made over the last 2 years are priceless, Sure I have fond memories of his Basketball playing career, but I also have fond memories of the time we have spent together in the outdoors Hunting and Fishing together. Was there when he got his 1st squirrel, his 1st Whitetail Buck and his 1st Spring Wild Turkey that I called in for him and that I forgot to hit RECORD on the camera to catch the take down on film, but thats another story i'll share sometime. There is more to Tommy than just Basketball, I have created an Outdoors Monster, but Basketball is his Love, he has really been working on his game, so he can take his talents overseas. Tommy will go far in life because he has drive, determination and the will to get things done. Its gonna be tough to go to the Convo and not see the skinny kid from Muncie, Indiana warming up in a Bobcat Uniform next year, but I know Tommy will be Hooping it up somewhere overseas. Dam Proud of you Tommy Freeman, You are part of my family now and I love you as if you we're my own. Just know that GrannyCat, my wife Paula, the sister you never wanted Shannon and myself 'G' will always be there for you. The Journey Continues !

       One last time :  Freeman for 3 "BANG"

Dennis 'G'

   If you like Hunting and Fishing you can follow us on our website. trifectaoutdoors.com and on twitter at trifectaoutdoor.

crackerbaby00
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Member Since: 3/8/2007
Post Count: 442

Status: Offline

RE: Congratulations BOY!!!

Posted: 6/18/2011 6:26:07 PM

I never had the chance to meet Borna or Tommy since I am a long distance alum, but I cannot think of a better family to represent my Alma Mater. Thanks for the 4 years of hard work you put in Tommy! Good luck to you in the future! I have no doubt you will do some special things in your life.

Taiwan BC
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Member Since: 12/20/2004
Location: Kaohsiung
Post Count: 517

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RE: Congratulations BOY!!!

Posted: 6/18/2011 10:26:49 PM

I think CrackerBaby hit the nail on the head for me.
Thanks for all you have done for Ohio and, I look forward to hearing about Tommy's exploits both on and off the hardwood from the Senior Freeman... ;)
Brian

intrpdtrvlr
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Member Since: 7/8/2010
Post Count: 177

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RE: Congratulations BOY!!!

Posted: 6/19/2011 12:34:56 PM

+1.

I never got to meet Tommy unfortunately but I remember the first time seeing him in the Convo, measuring him up, and assuming he was, as Borna says, a guy whose spot on the floor was in serious jeopardy. How wrong I was!
Outside of the man so many do know and praise, Tommy was a great player to watch and I'm sure the game winner against Miami will forever be my best Convo memory.

BA - Michigan State '03, MA - Ohio '05, PhD - Ohio '15

FearLeon
General User

Member Since: 3/12/2005
Post Count: 4,708

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RE: Congratulations BOY!!!

Posted: 6/19/2011 9:59:01 PM

Great tribute to one of the most productive players in OHIO basketball history. Thanks for all of the great memories TFree and I know you'll have great success in the future!

#BleedGreen #TrentIsGOAT

Steve
General User

Member Since: 12/1/2005
Post Count: 710

Status: Offline

RE: Congratulations BOY!!!

Posted: 6/20/2011 12:39:26 AM

Very nice.

74 Cat
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Member Since: 2/23/2005
Post Count: 114

Status: Offline

RE: Congratulations BOY!!!

Posted: 6/20/2011 10:01:14 AM

Stand up and cheer!! When it comes to Tommy, his father’s pride is well deserved. Tommy’s career is one that we all will cherish highly among our Bobcat memories. I kept thinking of Kipling when I read the tribute. Hopefully, you all will not think of me as being overly presumptuous by sharing those words below. Good luck, Tommy. Thank you for being a Bobcat!

http://www.kipling.org.uk/poems_if.htm

cc-cat
General User

Member Since: 4/5/2006
Location: matthews, NC
Post Count: 3,948

Status: Offline

RE: Congratulations BOY!!!

Posted: 6/20/2011 5:42:56 PM

Having had the privilege of meeting Tommy and his father, I can attest that Borna has every right to be proud. A winner “On the court” – “Off the court” and “in the Classroom” – (OOC) - Tommy will continue to be a winner in life as well. The few minutes he gave my son were a great memory, captured in the team poster, signed by Tommy, DJ and others that still adorns our refrigerator.

He epitomizes student-athlete and makes this alum proud that he wore the green and now, proud to have him among the alumni. Being a student in the late 70’s/early 80’s and more versed in that b-ball program, than today’s, I can only offer this comparison to another great Bobcat OOC-er:

Tommy = Kirk

colobobcat66
General User

Member Since: 9/1/2006
Location: Watching the bobcats run outside my window., CO
Post Count: 4,548

Status: Offline

RE: Congratulations BOY!!!

Posted: 6/22/2011 1:59:29 PM

I really enjoyed both Tommy on the floor and his Dad on this board. I'm sorry I never had the priviledge to meet either of you in person.Thanks to both of you for your contibutions to Ohio basketball. I wish the best to both of you in the future and hope I get to meet you sometime. Borna-PM me if you're going to Sac sometime, I may be out that way too and maybe we could get together.

Last Edited: 6/22/2011 2:00:13 PM by colobobcat66

41
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Member Since: 1/10/2011
Post Count: 39

Status: Offline

RE: Congratulations BOY!!!

Posted: 6/22/2011 3:14:53 PM

I was coaching hoops in Central Ohio in 2007, and went down to watch the first official practice of the year, a 6am practice on Saturday. O'Shea had "bed head", Bacari Alexander and Rhodes were great to watch....first player in the gym - the Freeman kid from Muncie. I was there at 5:30, hoping to talk a bit with the staff (I walked on under Hunter in mid-late 90s). Tommy was already there. Not just shooting 3s, but working on all parts of the game...was refreshing to see. Still living in central Ohio, but not coaching hoops anymore as the kids are now 4 and 2 years old and the wife is back in school pursuing another degree, but we are able to catch a few games every year...my only regret is that my boys aren't older to watch Freeman play....great job Borna....

MonroeClassmate
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Member Since: 8/31/2010
Post Count: 2,167

Status: Offline

RE: Congratulations BOY!!!

Posted: 7/6/2011 6:00:43 PM

Threeman to England?

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