Tampa, Fla.
Navigating the twists and turns of life can be a challenge without a map, and for Nick and Blake Davidson, this past year has been a testament to resilience and support. After losing their father, Kirk, unexpectedly last April, the Clemson basketball program has stood by them as both a team and a family.
Nick and Blake have found solace in the unwavering support from Clemson, a sentiment echoed as they prepare for their opening NCAA Tournament game at Benchmark International Arena.
“Clemson has been incredible,” Nick shared, reflecting on the past year. “The teammates, the coaches - everyone’s been there for us.”
Blake chimed in, “It’s been amazing. We’ve found a home here.”
On the court, the Davidson brothers have had a season to remember with the Tigers, who boast a 24-10 record. But the real victory has been Clemson's support off the court during their time of grief.
Nick's commitment to Clemson came on April 2, via the transfer portal from Nevada. Just a day later, the family was rocked by Kirk’s sudden passing. The shock was profound, but the Clemson community quickly rallied around the brothers.
Clemson’s Embrace
The morning after their father’s death, Nick and Blake were overwhelmed by messages of support from Clemson’s coach Brad Brownell and his staff. The message was clear: take your time, we’re here for you.
“They really stepped up for us,” Nick said. “They gave us the space we needed to grieve and regroup.”
Blake added, “It was a powerful reminder that we made the right choice coming here. The outpouring of support was incredible.”
As they settled into their new life on the East Coast, Clemson’s support never wavered. Nick, in a February radio interview, spoke about the challenges of adjusting to life without his father.
Clemson’s coaches offered patience and understanding, helping him find his rhythm both personally and on the court. Blake experienced the same supportive environment.
Coach Brownell praised the brothers for their strength and resilience. Nick, now 24, is a key player, averaging 9.1 points and 4.1 rebounds. Meanwhile, Blake, at 19, is developing his skills during a redshirt season.
“They’ve faced unimaginable challenges,” Brownell said during a radio show. “But they’re such good people, and it’s easy to support them.”
Honoring Kirk Davidson
Talking about their father remains tough, yet it’s becoming a bit easier. Kirk, a 6-foot-10 center, was a major influence in Nick’s basketball journey, encouraging him to always give his best effort.
“He was my biggest inspiration,” Nick said, his voice filled with emotion.
Blake fondly remembers watching “Hawaii Five-0” with his dad, a show they loved due to Kirk’s frequent work trips to Hawaii. Kirk, after his college basketball days, became a successful businessman in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology fields.
“We watched every episode multiple times,” Blake laughed. “And then moved on to ‘Magnum, P.I.’”
Kirk was also a devoted family man. In his honor, the Davidsons encouraged donations to GiGi’s Playhouse, an organization supporting individuals with Down syndrome. Their cousin Charlie, who has Down syndrome, was especially close to Kirk.
“That was our inspiration,” Nick shared. “My dad and Charlie were incredibly close.”
Kirk’s legacy of putting others first lives on through his sons. Nick, a 1,000-point career scorer, hopes to play professionally before transitioning to business. Blake, with four years of eligibility left, might pursue coaching.
Coach Brownell summed it up perfectly: “Their dad would be so proud of them.”
Clemson’s NCAA Tournament Details
- Matchup: No. 8 seed Clemson (24-10) vs. No. 9 seed Iowa (21-12)
- When: 6:50 p.m. Friday
- Where: Benchmark International Arena, Tampa, Florida
- TV: TNT
- Betting Line: Iowa by 1.5 points
- Next Up: Winner faces the victor of No.
1 Florida vs. No.
16 Prairie View A&M on Sunday (time/TV channel TBA)