The University of Texas at Austin Athletics
The maturation process
01.29.2010 | Men's Basketball
Jan. 29, 2010
Rachael Genson, Texas Media Relations
Even before he was in high school, J'Covan Brown knew he would be playing basketball for the Texas Longhorns.
"The summer after my eighth grade year, I told Coach (Rick) Barnes that I was going to play for him one day. So really, I'm just keeping my promise to him," the Texas freshman guard said.
This promise, however, was only one of the many that ensured that Brown would come to The University of Texas. His cousin and former Longhorn basketball star, B.J. Tyler, was also a key factor in getting Brown become a Longhorn.
"B.J. promised me that Texas had a great coaching staff, even though he had a different coach when he played here. He also told me that the academics were really good," Brown said.
Since arriving on the Forty Acres from his native Port Arthur, Texas, Brown has witnessed how much those promises have held true.
"I've really noticed how different the game is here," Brown said. "In high school, the coaches just wanted you to have fun and play a little basketball, but here it's a lot more focused. You always have to do what Coach (Barnes) wants, and they expect a lot more out of me here."
Those high expectations extend into the classroom, as well.
"I hate to say this, but in high school, it wasn't about the academics for me. But here, I've learned that I really have to do well in school if I want to play basketball," Brown said.
Basketball has taught Brown discipline, and that is a trait he has used to help with his studies. Formerly known as a class clown, Brown has since decided to retire his funny ways and learn to be a little more serious. He believes Texas has helped teach him when it's okay to have fun and when it's time to tone down the jokes.
"I have been so impressed with J'Covan's willingness to grow and expand as a student. As a result, he has experienced academic success and increased his confidence as a young man," said Dr. Randa Ryan, Senior Associate AD/Student-Athlete Services.
Brown credits all of his Longhorns teammates for his growth.
"At Texas, I really have to work for things if I want to succeed. The entire team here makes sure that that stays in my head," Brown said.
Senior guard Justin Mason has taken Brown under his wing. The two attend study hall sessions together, and Mason always checks in with Brown to make sure class is a priority.
"I try to do my best in school and hope that J'Covan will look at the things I do and apply them to his own life," Mason said.
Dogus Balbay and Damion James are among the teammates who make sure to keep Brown's attitude positive at all times. Balbay continually tells Brown that mistakes happen and it's ok to make them as long as you improve the next time. During games, James is the first to tell Brown to "always keep his head up no matter what."
Brown acknowledges that he has seen a huge change in himself. After just one semester at Texas, Brown considers himself to be "a whole different person." He feels that his time at UT has helped him to become a better friend, a better student and a better person.
His head coach is in complete agreement with those thoughts.
"J'Covan has changed in every way you can imagine, not only as a basketball player, but as a student and a person as well," Barnes said. "He's matured a lot and he's only going to continue to get better."
