Thomas Walkup was born on December 30, 1992, in Texas to parents Lisa and Raymond Walkup. Growing up, Walkup showed immense talent in basketball, which led him to excel at Deer Park High School. As a senior, he averaged nearly 26 points and nine rebounds per game, catching the attention of college recruiters.
Despite his impressive high school stats, Walkup received scholarship offers from only two schools: Stephen F. Austin (SFA) and Houston Baptist. He ultimately chose SFA, where he made a name for himself as a standout player. In the 2016 NCAA tournament, Walkup led the Lumberjacks to a stunning upset victory over third-seed West Virginia, showcasing his talent on a national stage.
During the tournament, Walkup's performance caught the eye of basketball fans everywhere, not only for his skills on the court but also for his iconic beard. He continued to impress, scoring 33 points in the first round and 21 points in the second round against Notre Dame. Despite the Lumberjacks falling short of another upset, Walkup was named Southland Player of the Year in both 2015 and 2016.
Aside from his basketball success, Walkup comes from a sports-oriented family. His brother also played college basketball, showing that athletic talent runs in the Walkup family. Walkup's dedication to the game and his natural talents have undoubtedly made him a force to be reckoned with on the court.
His performance in the 2016 NCAA tournament not only helped elevate his own career but also prematurely ended the season for Bob Huggins' West Virginia Mountaineers. Walkup's impact on the game was undeniable, and his legacy as a standout college basketball player continues to be remembered.
As a 6'4" swingman, Thomas Walkup has proven that talent and hard work can surpass all expectations, despite facing limited scholarship offers early in his career. His journey from a high school standout to a college basketball star is a testament to his dedication and perseverance in pursuing his passion for the game.
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