Athletics and School Spirit

Transcript

I am thrilled to introduce you to Houston, a sophomore Sports Administration major and guard for the men’s Basketball team. His love for the game, for the Pepperdine Waves, and his commitment to playing with purpose is evident. He also has some pretty epic skills on the court.

Yooooooo Alex, what’s up everyone! Growing up, I always knew I wanted to play basketball in college. I played football, baseball, and basketball as a kid and then developed my passion for basketball. This has now led me here, to Pepperdine University as a men’s basketball student athlete!  At first, my experience at Pepperdine was quite interesting. It was new and things did not click immediately when it came to the social scene. But when practice started up and athlete chapel started to be a focal point in the semester, life at Pepperdine began to feel like home.  Every October, basketball season kicks off with Blue and Orange Madness – a big event where we introduce the team. It’s quite the experience and having the student and faculty population there is a ton of fun. It’s loud in the stone and gets really rocking in there. My guy Willie the Wave was in attendance supporting and getting the crowd lit. My favorite part about Blue and Orange madness would have to be President Gash shooting the half court shot for a student’s tuition and the athlete introductions.  Competing with Purpose is a huge theme here at Pepperdine. I view competing with purpose as something that is not only impacting your life, but impacting the lives around you. Something that we live by is the acronym called PATHS. It stands for passion, attitude, toughness, humility, and sacrifice. These words guide us here at Pepperdine. Due to my journey with Pepperdine Athletics, I’ve been able to gather wisdom that is not only applicable to my sport interests, but also my academic and life interests. My hope for the future of Pepperdine athletics is that everyone supports everyone and all know we are in this together, and that Pepperdine’s athletics culture continues to grow.  Back to you, Alex!

In addition to supporting the academic and spiritual well-being of student-athletes, the goal is to compete for championships. And when Pepperdine competes, the Riptide Rally Crew, painted bodies and all, will chant “AYO Waves!” in support of their fellow students. Houston, thnk you for telling us more about your story at Pepperdine – and for introducing us to Willie the Wave!