Nov. 4, 2014
UCF Athletics Social Media Directory
By Joey Nelson
UCFKnights.com
ORLANDO, Fla. (UCFKnights.com) -- Kasey Wilson was raised to be a straight-forward family man. He was taught to look others in the eye and to be certain that he always gave the utmost respect to those around him.
It all started with mom and dad, who Wilson says would do anything and everything to see their son live out his dreams. Now in his fourth season as a forward for the UCF men's basketball team, he simply wants to make his parents proud.
"When I'm banged up or tired, I just think of my mom and dad and how they've helped to get me here," Wilson said. "It's my turn to take ownership where they left off. I couldn't repay them enough, but I just need to do the work I'm supposed to while I'm here and get as good as I can be."
That upbringing has had an impact on Wilson as a student-athlete. Rather than worry about personal accolades, he holds a team-first mentality and just wants to do the best for his team and his school.
And it all starts with respect.
"My mom used to always tell me growing up that regardless of people's respect for you, you have to be respectful to them and you'll get it back," Wilson said. "That's just what I try to do. Everybody wants respect and that's one thing I've really learned from my parents. Be respectful and do your job to the best of your ability."
Heading into the 2014-15 season, Wilson has embraced the challenge of being called upon as a team leader. With a personable outlook and humble mindset, he has helped craft a team-oriented approach for the Black and Gold.
Wilson explained that he learned important lessons from former teammate Keith Clanton, who he believes set the standard for how to perform on the court but more importantly, how to act away from the game. Clanton has served as a relatable mentor to Wilson as the two speak daily, whether it involves conversations about everyday life or fundamental hoops talk.
"Just seeing the work he put in, on and off the court, was just incredible," Wilson said of Clanton. "That really helped me mature as a human being and as a basketball player. Missing that type of all-star player is big, but it will allow us to rely on each other a little bit more as a team."
Through 91 games spread across three seasons, the veteran forward has accumulated 381 rebounds and 667 points, with a 41.6 three-point field goal percentage that ranks him sixth all-time at UCF. However, the North Port, Fla., native says he doesn't pay close attention to the numbers. He simply aims to help the team win.
"I just try to go out there and do what I can to help us win games," he said. "With my game, I just try to rebound and make the open shot. I don't do anything I can't do. That will be a key for us as we all play together and find each other's strengths and weaknesses."
Wilson often finds himself reminiscing on his days at UCF as his final season in a Knights' uniform approaches.
"Honestly, I love UCF. It's been a great four years here and for it to go so fast is mind-blowing. I just enjoyed it and tried to be the best I could while I've been here," Wilson said. "A lot of people would give anything to have this jersey on, and I'm just really blessed to be at such a nice university. It means the world to me, and I know how proud my parents are. That's what really keeps me going every day."