EKU Student-Athlete Nominated To National List

An EKU men’s basketball player will have two chances at a post-season appearance come March. Senior big man Deverin Muff and his Colonel teammates hope to be playing in the Final Four but if they’re not, Muff could still be on the court for it.

"I obviously don’t do it for the recognition but when someone notices you for doing some small things for people, I think it’s just a great honor."

It’s an honor Deverin Muff hopes grows beyond an nomination. The 6’8" senior’s reach is literal and figurative. His impact, felt on the court and the community.

"One of the things my dad told me when I first got here is make sure that every place you go, make it a better place than it was."

It’s a mantra Deverin is getting noticed for. The National Association of Basketball Coaches, along with Allstate have placed Deverin on the "Good Works" nomination list.

"Humbled, because a lot of people go through a lot more rougher situations than I have to go through and go over a lot more obstacles than I have to go through on a daily basis. And just seeing what they do and the joy that they have, just spending time with them kind of just makes me feel good but I’m just humbled."

His service includes work for Shriners’ Hospital Field Day, the Colonel Basketball Reading Program, Special Olympics, Kids’ Fest Day of Hope and Athletes in Action.

"I’ve just changed as a person it’s just made me grow up more and appreciate everyone and the aspects of life they go through."

He graduated with his bachelors degree in public relations last May and is working toward a masters in sport administration. In addition, Deverin is published in the EKU Progress and the Richmond Register. As for seeing his name making headlines any time soon?

"Hopefully for doing something good. We’ll see. Hopefully if we keep winning you’ll get another byline," said Muff, with a smile.

A voting panel will select two 10-member teams out of the 158 nominees. They’ll be invited to the Final Four in Indianapolis where they’ll participate in a community project in the city.