Hancock Men's Basketball Player Tew Signs with Division I-Level Niagara University

Allan Hancock College men's basketball player Alioune Tew saw his patience and hard work in the face of adversity pay off in a big way on Wednesday afternoon. On the first official day of practice for the 2014-15 season, the sophomore forward tore the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee. Every Division I college that had recruited and offered Tew a scholarship withdrew their offer. After months of rehabilitation on his knee while taking a full load of classes in the fall and spring semesters, Tew signed a National Letter of Intent to play Division I basketball at Niagara University. The six-foot-nine, 215 pound Tew sat out the 2014-15 season with the Bulldogs due to the knee injury, but still secured a Division I scholarship.

"I had a great time at Hancock. The coaches and counselors made sure I was successful even if I didn't play. I took the classes that I needed and did the work that I needed to do to make this happen," said Tew, who took an official visit to Niagara last weekend. "I'm excited. I worked hard for this. Playing Division I basketball has been my goal since I came to the state."

Tew transferred to Hancock from Eastern Utah Junior College. Born in France, Tew also played for elite French club teams at the Under-21 Championship level.

Hancock head coach Tyson Aye said Tew was a perfect example of a student-athlete who faced a challenge head on, and persevered. "This is what my job is all about as a community college coach," said the third-year head coach. "If athletes work hard and have the right attitude we are going to do everything we can to help them achieve their dreams."  

Aye also praised Tew for taking nearly 40 units of classes during the fall and spring semesters to secure his eligibility for Division I basketball.

Niagara University competes in the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference. The Purple Eagles are coming off an 8-22 season under head coach Chris Casey. Former Hancock star Ali Langford signed a scholarship to play for Niagara after the 2010-11 season with the Bulldogs.

Tew plans to major in communications at Niagara. He will have three years of eligibility remaining with the Purple Eagles.

Aye said a few other members of the Hancock men's basketball team could sign scholarships to play at four-year universities in the coming weeks.