The world of college basketball witnessed a historic moment this week as Boston College guard Donald Hand Jr. was named the Atlantic Coast Conference Player of the Week. In doing so, he joined his father Donald Hand Sr. in the record books, becoming the first father-son duo to both earn this prestigious ACC honor.
A Legacy Forged On The Hardwood
Nearly a quarter-century ago, Donald Hand Sr. made his mark on the ACC landscape, securing Player of the Week accolades as a member of the Virginia Cavaliers on January 31, 2000. Little did he know that his own son would one day follow in his footsteps, etching their family name into conference lore.
To have my son accomplish the same feat I did all those years ago, it’s an indescribable feeling. Watching him grow and excel at the game we both love, it’s the ultimate pride for a father.
– Donald Hand Sr.
Shining In The Spotlight
Donald Hand Jr.’s performance this past week was nothing short of spectacular. In Boston College’s victory over Fairleigh Dickinson on Saturday, the versatile guard posted a career-high 29 points and pulled down 10 rebounds. But it was his clutch play down the stretch that truly stood out.
- 8 of BC’s final 10 points scored by Hand Jr.
- Leading scorer for the Eagles at 15.3 PPG
- 8th in the ACC in rebounding at 7.5 per game
His ability to take over in crunch time and deliver when his team needed him most caught the attention of coaches and media members alike. Putting together such a complete performance on both ends of the floor made him a clear choice for ACC Player of the Week.
Carrying On A Family Tradition
For the Hand family, basketball is in their blood. Growing up with a father who played at the highest levels of college hoops, Donald Jr. was exposed to the game from a young age. He witnessed firsthand the dedication and drive it takes to succeed.
My dad has always been my biggest role model, both on and off the court. To be able to share this accomplishment with him, it’s a dream come true.
– Donald Hand Jr.
Now, as he carves his own path at Boston College, Donald Jr. is driven by the desire to make his own mark. While honored to match his father’s achievement, he knows this is just the beginning of what he hopes will be a stellar college career and beyond.
A Bright Future Ahead
With his unique blend of scoring prowess, rebounding ability, and clutch gene, Donald Hand Jr. has all the tools to be a force in the ACC for years to come. As he continues to develop under the tutelage of head coach Earl Grant, the sky’s the limit for this second-generation star.
For now, Donald Jr. is focused on leading Boston College to new heights. With a foundation of hard work and family support, he is poised to write his own legacy—one that may someday see his own son follow in his footsteps, carrying on the Hand tradition of excellence.
