Antwan Thompson ’21 and Dayyan Noble ’21 continue to pursue their passion for basketball.
Anyone who knew Antwan Thompson ‘21 and Dayyan Noble ’21 during their years at Gerstell Academy would know and understand the passion these young men had for the sport of basketball. While they dreamt and pursued the idea of playing basketball at the collegiate level, they chose to put the academic path in the forefront. Antwan (Cheeks) and Dayyan are juniors at Syracuse University pursuing degrees in cyber security and engineering. Their passion for basketball is still alive and well. While they may not be playing for the Division I Syracuse Orangemen, Antwan and Dayyan are members of the 12 man, practice squad for the Women’s Orange basketball team. Practicing with the squad, 3-4 days a week, they are instrumental in giving the women great competition on the court. Many Division I schools in the country use scout or practice squads of male players for their women’s teams. The practice squad offers many advantages to the women in practice, giving the women more rest time eliminating fatigue and risk of injury, as well as working on their speed and quickness. The practice players run drills with the team and simulate game experiences. The Syracuse Orange women play in the Atlantic Coast Conference where they are currently in second place, and as of February 23, they were ranked #17 Nationally. These practice squads are an integral part of the development of top-notch Division I women’s teams, and their role is highly respected. If the women’s team wins a Championship, the practice squad players will also receive a championship ring. Antwan and Dayyan may not be playing collegiate basketball in the way they always dreamt, but they are continuing to play the sport they love, while helping others succeed.
2500 Old Westminster Pike
Finksburg, MD 21048-1823
410-861-3000
1-866-861-3300
Finksburg, MD 21048-1823
410-861-3000
1-866-861-3300
