In the world of college basketball, where the pressure is immense and the stakes are high, DJ Burns Jr. stands out not just for his remarkable skills on the court, but also for his infectious positivity and charisma. Celebrating victories with a skip and not shy to share moments of joy, like taking selfies at press conferences, Burns has become the heart and soul of the North Carolina State basketball team. His ability to maintain a positive demeanor is something he credits to his upbringing, which he carries with him, both on and off the court.
A Magical Run
North Carolina State, a team that entered the tournament as a double-digit seed, has captivated the hearts of basketball fans with a run that mirrors the fairy-tale journey of the 1983 championship team. The Wolfpack’s journey to the Final Four has been nothing short of miraculous, marked by a series of nine consecutive elimination games victories, including an impressive sweep through the ACC tournament, where they won five games in just as many days. Head Coach Keatts remarked on the unwavering faith within the team, emphasizing that they have "never lost trust in who they are." This trust has propelled them past high-seeded adversaries like Marquette and Duke, underscoring that in the Final Four, the seeding numbers cease to matter.
The Center of Attention
Standing at 6-foot-9 and weighing over 275 pounds, DJ Burns commands attention not just for his towering presence but for his pivotal role in the team's success. His gameplay not only highlights his individual talent but also creates numerous opportunities for his teammates. Coach Keatts lauds Burns for his amiable nature and ability to gel with everyone, attributes that have significantly contributed to uniting the team, the community, and the alumni. As the focal point of the team's offensive strategy, Burns' impact on the game is undeniable, with his presence on the court making it substantially easier for the guards on the perimeter by drawing attention and freeing them for plays.
The Spotlight Intensifies
The achievement of both N.C. State’s men's and women's basketball teams reaching the Final Four has further magnified the spotlight on Burns and his colleagues. With this increased visibility comes added pressure, yet Burns handles it with gratitude for the overwhelming support from fans. His dedication to maintaining a positive and appreciative stance amidst rising expectations exemplifies his strong character and leadership qualities.
Quotes
Reflective of his happy roots, Burns shares, "I was raised in a happy environment. I try to take that with me everywhere I go." This ethos has certainly permeated the team's spirit, contributing to their remarkable journey. As Coach Keatts puts it, the team's unwavering trust in their identity and cohesion has paved the way for "one of the most magical runs in the history of basketball." He further stresses the irrelevance of seed numbers in the grand stage of the Final Four, highlighting the unpredictability and the sheer excitement of college basketball. Acknowledging Burns' influence on the game, a teammate notes, "When DJ gets going, it makes it easier for us guards on the perimeter. He draws so much attention. All we can do is stay ready: stay ready to shoot, stay ready to make a play."
Burns' reaction to the team's success and the surrounding buzz is modest yet hopeful, "It's been kind of crazy," he admits, further extending a word of thanks to the team's supporters, "If you're supporting us, thank you." This statement not only exemplifies his humility but also his appreciation for the community that has rallied behind the team.
As N.C. State continues its unexpected yet awe-inspiring journey in the tournament, DJ Burns Jr. remains at the center, a beacon of positivity and leadership. His story, along with that of his team's, serves as a testament to the spirit of college basketball, where heart, grit, and belief can defy expectations and write histories.