Vasquez Joins Fastbreakers for Preseason Kickoff
10/20/2017 10:52:00 AM | Men's Basketball
COLLEGE PARK, Md. – University of Maryland basketball great Greivis Vasquez returned to College Park Wednesday to join the Fastbreakers support group annual meeting at the newly constructed Hotel at the University of Maryland.
Club President Fabian Jiminez welcomed the group and introduced the night's speakers, starting with current Terrapin assistant coach Dustin Clark. Clark thanked the Fastbreakers for their continued support of the program, and updated the group on the team's newcomers and progress this preseason.
Vasquez then spoke to the room, telling his story as a young boy with humble beginnings in Venezuela, the growth and challenges he faced at Montrose Christian high school, his rise to prominence at Maryland and his leap to the NBA.
“I feel like I'm reconnecting with my family being with all of you,” said Vasquez. “This is the greatest school in the whole world. I want to thank the Fastbreakers for everything you've done for me to help get me to where I am in my life.”
Vasquez then highlighted the work of his foundation, which holds community outreach events in College Park and his native Venezuela. For more information on his outreach work, click here.
Vasquez compiled one of the most storied careers in Maryland basketball history, finishing as the only player in ACC history to compile at least 2,000 points, 700 assists and 600 rebounds. As a senior, he was awarded the 2010 Bob Cousy Award given by the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame to the nation's best collegiate point guard and helped Maryland advance to three NCAA Tournaments.
About the Fastbreakers
When Coach “Lefty” Driesell became the Head Coach of Maryland Basketball, he fore saw the need to create a support group that could establish a loyal following for the team, and to help raise needed funds. In 1971 the “Fastbreakers” were created by Jack “Mr. Maryland” Heise and Les Smith to help Coach Driesell fulfill his vision.
More than 40 years later, the Fastbreakers continue with its original mission as charged by Coach Driesell. Through the years, Maryland Basketball has reached great heights including the 2002 National Championship under Coach Gary Williams. Now entering the B1G Ten under the leadership of Coach Mark Turgeon.
For more information on the Fastbreakers, head to umdfastbreakers.com
-Terps-
