From Paradise Jam Ball Boy To College Star

ST. THOMAS, U.S. Virgin Islands — Josh Hawkinson got the ball back in the corner late Saturday night with only one thing left to do to showcase his complete arsenal. This wasn’t a needed or clutch moment to solidify anything, but the Washington State senior, in rhythm, let it fly from behind the arc.

Swish.

Up to that point, everything was near perfect inside the University of the Virgin Islands gym, and the 6-foot-10 forward was a big reason why. It was also a special night.

Hawkinson posted a career-high 29 points and 14 rebounds in the Cougars’ 87-63 dismantling of Montana in the Paradise Jam, but that was only the start. Not only did the performance help him reach over 1,000 points in his career, but it also came in a tournament and gym that has meant so much to him over the years.

How can that be? After all, this is first time Hawkinson has played college games here. The locals here know, though. Hawkinson, whose dad puts on the event, was a ball boy at the Paradise Jam growing up. And on this night, he was the star.

It doesn’t get much better than that.

How to Watch

LOYOLA VS. WASHINGTON STATE
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