“It’s just a tradition I’ve had since my freshman year in high school,” he said. “It’s real comfortable on my feet. When I make sharp cuts or sharp turns, I don’t feel anything.
“I had to tell the managers. They gave me one pair of socks. I was like, ‘I’m going to need two more pair.’ They said, ‘You’re going to need two more pair, for what?’ I said, ‘For tonight’s game.’ ”
As long as Spearman builds on the promise he’s shown this season, the Flyers will supply him with all of the socks he needs.
He’s become a key part of the rotation, primarily as a backup at both wing spots. And while other newcomers seem to need time to fully embrace defense at the college level, Spearman has endeared himself to the coaching staff because of the delight he takes in shadowing opposing players. And his quickness and long wingspan have equipped him to do the job.
“I’m pretty much dogged on both ends,” he said. “I really love the defensive side and offensive side to my game, but I take more pride in the defensive side.
“That’s where my heart is. That’s what I live for.”
Spearman averaged 14.7 points and 7.5 rebounds a game for Chicago Simeon High School last season. And while those may be modest stats, he was a force in the state tournament, leading his team in scoring in all seven postseason games on the way to the Illinois 4A (big school) title. Chicago Bulls star Derrick Rose led Simeon to back-to-back championships in 2006 and ’07.
Spearman sees his career unfolding at UD like it did at Simeon. He may never be a prolific scorer, but he can have an impact in other ways.
“I just want to bring energy and just bring the best Brandon Spearman I can be,” he said. “Just give the team what I’m good at. That’s on the offensive side and defensive side, working hard.”
Another thing he brings is a competitive spirit. He was slapped with a technical for jawing with a Cincinnati player in the late stages of a 68-34 loss Nov. 27.
Spearman had taken an elbow to the face, and as he was having his say with the perpetrator, another UC player stepped in to join the fray.
Referee John Cahill called a double-technical on Spearman and the second UC player on the scene, Larry Davis.
“We all were frustrated at the time, but we can’t let our emotions get the best of us,” Spearman said. “The guy was in my face. We exchanged words. It’s just basketball, you know?
“But I’m not backing down to nobody.”
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