Students battle on ‘The Slab’

 
Southern University students participated in ‘Battle of the Slab’ Basketball tournament on the newly paved outdoor courts in front of J.S. Jones Hall, Friday.
 Students often complain about more activities on campus and residential life provided a response. Nine teams out of a possible twelve entered into the tournament to prove their skills, and to have a good time.
Ezekiel Hamilton, Residential Life hall director for over a year discussed why he wanted to organize the event.
“Well with the new courts we needed to let people know it’s here,” Hamilton said.
He said residential life is making efforts to create a more productive living environment for students on campus.
Dewayne Fuselier, a senior political science and criminal justice major from Lake Charles, La. said why he entered the tournament.
“It’s my last year, it seemed like something fun,” Fuselier said. He told of the having something to prove because he isn’t old yet.
Joskie Frank, a freshman mechanical engineering major from Opelousas, La. agreed with Fuselier.
“It was fun and I wanted to experience playing in the tournament,” Frank said.
Fuselier said the tournament was well planned out for many reasons.
“Honestly it was because they had Powerade, ample people, teams, and it was sectioned off greatly,” Fuselier said.
Giovanni Brooks, a freshman biology major from San Diego said the tourney was organized well.
“Yea, it was organized compared to others I have been to that weren’t as organized,” Brooks said. He said having events on campus gives students on campus a lot more to do.
Frank viewed the event as a way for on campus students to occupy time.
“Yes, totally gives us something do to occupy time,” Frank said. He said participating students could be doing something else, but decided to come out to play.
Participants were entertained with a DJ booth, and fellow students were present to support their friends. The event lasted from noon to 5 p.m.
Hamilton described the organization process of the tournament.
“The tournament costs about $150 or more to organize and a donation of two basketballs was provided by coach Robertson, director of intramural sports,” Hamilton said.
Hamilton said Coca-Cola donated drinks while trophies were donated by Residential Life.
“The Dream team, which included Jerome Wilson, Toddrick Bajoie, Trent Nzekwesi, and Donald Young,” he said.
Donald Young was the Most Valuable Player of the tournament.
“Look out for dodge ball tournament coming soon,” Hamilton said.