Duquesne Coach Dru Joyce III Celebrates Akron Roots with Game
UPDATE: Duquesne University head coach Dru Joyce III is set to honor his Akron roots this Saturday, as his team faces Northeastern at LeBron James Court in St. Vincent-St. Mary, Ohio. This matchup is not just a game; it’s a heartfelt tribute to the legacy of NBA superstar LeBron James, who alongside Joyce, led their high school team to a state title over 20 years ago.
Joyce revealed in an exclusive conversation with ESPN that he recently reached out to James for advice on basketball strategies. “I just hit him the other day about a weak-side defense question,” Joyce shared. “He got back to me with a bunch of confidence, saying, ‘No, I think you’re going about it the right way.’” The camaraderie between the two highlights their deep-rooted friendship.
This Saturday’s game is free to attend and is expected to draw significant local interest. Joyce expressed the emotional weight of returning to his hometown: “This one is close to the heart, man. It is special. I’m back home, amongst my family and friends.” The game also marks Joyce’s second consecutive appearance at his alma mater, making it a poignant occasion for him and his players.
Earlier this week, Joyce took his team on a tour of the I Promise School, founded by James’ family foundation, and visited the LeBron James Museum. Players were thrilled to learn that Gloria James, LeBron’s mother, had watched their recent game against Villanova. Joyce recounted their reaction: “Immediately, they were like, ‘LeBron … watched us?'” This encounter lifted team morale and heightened their anticipation for the upcoming game.
Joyce hopes that Saturday’s matchup will deepen his players’ understanding of LeBron’s influence in Akron and beyond. “More than anything, it’s still a loyalty, a trust, and bond that we have,” he stated, emphasizing the personal connection he shares with James.
Family, friends, and former teammates are expected to be in attendance, although it remains uncertain if James will be able to join due to the Lakers’ game against the Utah Jazz on Sunday. However, Joyce remains hopeful for potential surprises, saying, “I don’t know who walks through that door on Saturday.”
The game against Northeastern promises to be a thrilling encounter filled with nostalgia and community spirit. Joyce aims to extend the legacy of a high school team that shaped his and LeBron’s paths, coached by his father, Dru Joyce II. “It’s going to be fun,” he concluded, underscoring the significance of this event.
