Hoops tourney to honor a Gator pioneer

When Steve Williams suited up for the Gator basketball team in 1970, he made history. He didn’t go on to score 60 points or dazzle the crowd with amazing monster dunks. Williams’ appearance in that game solidified his place in history for one simple reason: He was the first African-American to receive a scholarship and play for the UF basketball team.

Over the course of his career, Williams overcame adversity throughout the SEC and graduated with a degree in physical education. This served as a foundation for his prosperous coaching career.

In celebration of Black History Month, the University of Florida Interfraternity Council will host the Steve Williams Basketball Tournament from noon to 4 p.m. on Feb. 14 at the Broward Outdoor Recreational Complex. The 3-on-3 tourney will serve to honor a true Gator pioneer and also help support a multicultural scholarship fund.

Team registration cost is $25. Each team will consist of three starting members and two alternatives. The registration fee includes food and beverages. A DJ will provide entertainment. The winning team will receive the inaugural Steve Williams Basketball Tournament trophy.

The Interfraternity Council at the University of Florida strives to promote leadership, service, scholarship, and community within its individual fraternity chapters. To contact the UF Interfraternity Council, please visit http://ufifc.org/contactus/. The UFIFC can also be reached at info@ufifc.org and (352) 392-1671. For tournament registration information, please contact Tristan Ahlquist at (239) 682-2154 or ahlquistt@ufl.edu.

Credits

Writer: Paul Bernard