In a heartfelt moment on Saturday, KU basketball coaches and teammates welcomed freshman guard Samis Calderon back to California. Calderon had been in El Paso, Texas, supporting his family after the passing of his father, Luis Calderon.
Coach Bill Self shared some insights into the situation, explaining how quickly things unfolded: “We landed here Wednesday, around 4:30 p.m., and by 7 p.m., Samis was on a plane to El Paso. His father was very sick, and though he made it there that night, he didn’t get the chance to say goodbye.”
The Jayhawks are set to face St. John’s in a Round of 32 matchup at 4:15 p.m.
Central on Sunday. Coach Self expressed the team's collective support for Calderon: “It’s incredibly tough for anyone, especially someone so young.
He’s heartbroken, but he’s back with us, and we’ll do everything we can to support him.”
Calderon, originally from Brazil, made his way to the U.S. three years ago, playing for the Overtime Elite program in Atlanta after a stint in Mexico with the NBA Academy. Reflecting on recent events, Calderon said, “I had to return as soon as we arrived here on Wednesday.
My dad passed away. I’m here now, thinking of my dad and family, but I need to stay focused on March.”
Although he missed Friday’s NCAA opener against Cal Baptist, Calderon will be ready for Sunday’s game against St. John’s.
“The funeral will be in a couple of weeks,” Calderon shared. “We were very close.
Many things in my life happened because of him. We’re sad but trying to move forward.”
He added, “Everything that happened can be a source of motivation. I won’t dwell on it too much.
My dad loved seeing me succeed and did a lot for me in basketball. Right now, my focus is on winning a championship.
The coaches have taught me so much this year and have been incredibly supportive.”