'I'm Showcasing What I Can Do': ORU's Kareem Thompson Remains Loyal To Golden Eagles

It's a reality in college basketball that good players like ORU's Kareem Thompson get offers to transfer, but he's remained loyal.

Ravin: "So, do you feel like you made the right decision staying?"

Kareem Thompson replied, "I do, I do. I'm showcasing what I can do, and I'm put in a position where the future is in my hands."

During his time at ORU, Thompson has played a key role on two NCAA Tournament teams, including ORU's Sweet 16 run in 2021.

"It's amazing how much I've learned and grew as a person and a basketball player here," Thompson said. "It's been amazing, outside of basketball, all the relationships; everyone is so welcoming and loving and cares about you genuinely."

Russell Springmann's promotion to head coach was also a major factor in Thompson's decision to finish his career as a Golden Eagle.

"The relationship I've built with him is much deeper than just basketball," Kareem said. "And I fully trust him with my last year, and he's given me confidence to make plays that I haven't been able to make in the past."

"For him to be pursued the way that he was and decide to stay here because he truly believed in his heart that this is the best place to be, I think, speaks volumes for who he is as a person," Russell Springmann said. "He makes everybody better; he makes me better every day."

It hasn't been the smoothest regular season, but Thompson and the Golden Eagles know if they put it together in Sioux Falls next month, they'll be back to where they want to be in the NCAA Tournament.