All athletes dream of making it to the professional level in their favorite sport.  For most, that dream never comes true, but for one Patriot athlete, it is now a reality.  Former University of the Cumberlands men's basketball player Pierre Darden (Cincinnati, Ohio) has signed a one year contract with the New York Knicks in their National Basketball Developmental League program. 

Pierre played in Williamsburg, KY during both the Cumberland College and the University of the Cumberland era.  During his career Darden scored 606 points while snagging 277 rebounds and blocking 75 shots.  Pierre also earned Mid-South Conference Honorable Mention Honors in 2006.  When asked about his career as a Patriot, Darden said "The work ethic that was drilled into me as a Patriot really helped me out in this situation.  Other players have a good work ethic, but I have a lot to prove because I went to a smaller school, that's not heard of as often.  It's a true advantage for me."

Darden first started his professional career in the Continental Basketball League (CBL) with the Lawton Fort Sill Cavalry.  The Cavalry won the CBL League Championship last season as Darden began the season as their starting center.  After injuring his ankle at Christmas, Darden came back as a key bench player.  Pierre started in 13 games this past season for the Cavalry. 

Darden was contacted by Knicks General Manager Glen Grunwald about coming to work out and try out for the New York Knicks.  When arriving for workouts, Pierre spoke with President of Basketball Operations Donnie Walsh and Head Coach Mike D'Antoni about the team.  Darden also worked out with the team who includes big name superstars such as Stephon Marbury, Chris Duhon, Allan Houston, Jamal Crawford, and Patrick Ewing Jr.
Pierre will join the Reno Bighorns in the NBA Developmental League for the 2008-2009 season with the opportunity to be called up to the New York Knicks at any time during the year.  When asked how he felt to be associated with the NBA, Pierre said, "It feels good.  This is a great opportunity for me to continue my career. I proved to myself that during my workouts with the team that I could still play at this level, especially coming from a smaller school like UC.  It's a great self-confidence booster.  Coming from Cumberland is seen as a disadvantage trying to move up in the pros, but a lot of times it's worked to my advantage.  Going to a smaller school and being able to compete with the caliber of athletes at this level, you are seen as a special athlete. You stick out more because you see that talent is at all levels."

Patriots Head Coach Don Butcher said, "Pierre was a pleasure to coach. He always put the team first and was a great example for his teammates.  He worked very hard to improve his skills and strength and is now reaping the benefits of that hard work.  His future is bright in basketball because he has great work ethic and it extremely coachable.  We wish him the best of luck and look forward to his many successes." 

The University of the Cumberlands basketball team is consistently a contender for the Mid-South Conference title as well as a regular NAIA National Championship participant.  For more information on the Patriot basketball program go to www.ucumberlands.edu/athletics/mens/

Article Provided by Bo Kidd, University of the Cumberlands Sports Information Student Assistant