UMD Legend Drew Blair Returns to Fuel New Triumphs as Assistant Coach
DULUTH, Minn. - The University of Minnesota Duluth (UMD) is buzzing with excitement as alumnus and all-time leading scorer, Drew Blair, returns to the Bulldogs’ men’s basketball team. This time, Blair takes up the mantle of assistant coach, joining the brilliant minds under head coach Justin Wieck.
A Career Achievement: Blair’s Unparalleled Record
Once a powerful force on the court, Blair played a pivotal role during his five-year stint with the Bulldogs. Exhibiting unwavering dedication and unmatched skill, he started in all 143 games and secured 105 victories for his team, marking a sizable legacy. Blair’s consistency helped UMD mark a historic run to the Elite Eight of the NCAA Division II tournament in 2023.
Blair’s record with UMD stands towering with 2,772 total collegiate points, 926 field goals, 344 three-point field goals, and 576 free throws — figures every emerging player may aspire to.
Bridging Past Glory with A Visionary Future
Blair’s transition into an assistant coaching role emerges as a part of his continuous basketball journey. Following an insightful year with the NBA’s Milwaukee Bucks as Player Development/Video Coordinator Assistant, he brings enriched experience back to his alma mater. His return ignites hope and optimism for further athletic triumphs for the Bulldogs.
As the program welcomes its former star, Blair emphasizes his dedication: “Duluth is a place and program that I have a lot of love for. I look forward to continuing to build on what has been built here and help elevate our program. I can’t wait to get to work with our guys and compete for championships!”
An Inspiring Journey to Wholesome Recognition
Throughout his collegiate years, Blair amassed numerous accolades. Highlighting his fierce gameplay and leadership, he was bestowed with Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference team honors consistently for five years. Notably, he earned the title of Most Outstanding Player of the NCAA Central Region Tournament during that historic Elite Eight run.
By his senior year, Blair was a finalist for distinguished awards like the Small College Basketball’s Bevo Francis Award and Trevor Hudgins Award, ultimately also being named a D2CCA and NABC All-American.
This latest appointment signals an exciting chapter not only for Blair but also for the UMD basketball team as they aim to achieve new heights together.
According to Northern News Now, the Bulldogs’ future appears promising with Blair’s enthusiastic return, merging past glories with the ambition of a triumphant future.
