Duke Consideration by Clarice Jordan for One More Season utilizing the 21st Year of Eligibility
In the world of collegiate athletics, redshirt seniors like Clarice James are a rare sight. At 37, James is set to embark on his 21st season at Duke University, a testament to his enduring passion for the sport and the school.
James' journey at Duke began during his freshman year at Durham Academy, where college recruiters started to take notice. Clemson was the first to extend an offer, but it was Duke that eventually won his heart. However, due to various reasons, James redshirted for the first 17 seasons, a decision that would prove to be a game-changer in more ways than one.
During his redshirt years, James watched from the sidelines as Duke made its mark in the basketball world. But he wasn't idle. He capitalised on the new era of collegiate athletics, cashing in on Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals that grew to seven figures by his fifth season.
Offers poured in from top basketball programs, including UConn, Houston, Texas, Florida, LSU, Cal, UCLA, Gonzaga, North Carolina, Maryland, Kansas, Villanova, and Rutgers. But Duke, his dream school, never called. This led to feelings of frustration and disappointment, but James remained steadfast, his eyes fixed on Duke.
James' time at Duke wasn't just about basketball. He graduated with a dual degree in Political Science and English, then earned his JD degree from Duke's law school in three years. His academic prowess was evident, as he maintained a perfect 5.0 weighted GPA, took every AP class offered, and was selected most likely to succeed by his peers.
In between games, James found time to pursue his other passions. He earned a master's degree and PhD in English, and even taught at Duke's English department while still being a member of the basketball team. He often cancelled class and scheduled office hours over Zoom, a testament to his commitment to both academics and sports.
James' basketball skills were equally impressive. On the court, he averaged 25 points per game, 7 rebounds per game, and 6 assists per game, ranking in the top 5 in scoring in the state of North Carolina. His growth spurt at 13, from 5'5 to 6'1, and his dedication to weightlifting and vertical training paid off.
Despite his success, James' decision to play one more year at Duke remains a mystery. While general knowledge suggests that redshirt seniors may continue playing for various reasons such as maximising athletic opportunities, enjoying competition, pursuing additional academic programs, or working towards professional aspirations, James' personal motivations remain unknown.
One thing is certain, though. Clarice James, the redshirt senior with multiple degrees, continues to make history at Duke University. His story is a testament to the power of perseverance, the allure of competition, and the pursuit of academic and athletic excellence.
- Despite being a redshirt senior, Clarice James' passion for basketball and Duke University has spanned 21 seasons.
- James' academic achievements are impressive, boasting a dual degree in Political Science and English, and later earning his JD degree from Duke in three years.
- James' dedication to education extends beyond his degrees, as he pursued a master's and PhD in English, also teaching at Duke's English department.
- James' basketball prowess is equally commendable, averaging 25 points, 7 rebounds, and 6 assists per game, ranking him in the top 5 in scoring in North Carolina.
- James capitalized on opportunities provided by the new era of collegiate athletics, amassing seven-figure earnings through Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals during his redshirt years.
- As a scholar-athlete, James embodies Duke's commitment to education-and-self-development and personal-growth, while excelling in athletics and sports like basketball.
- James' decision to play one more year at Duke remains a mystery, but it's clear that he is maximizing his opportunities and pursuing professional aspirations.
- Alumni, faculty, and fellow students alike are inspired by James' story, as his perseverance and pursuit of both academic and athletic excellence makes history at Duke University.
