ALEX Starling admitted to breaking down in tears after his double-double steered Warrnambool Seahawks to victory against Shepparton Gators.
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The American import played the Big V clash with “a heavy heart” following the death of his close friend Christopher Guthrie in a motorcycle accident.
Guthrie, who at 26 is one day older than Starling, died in the incident in the Miami suburb of Richmond Heights on Thursday night, US time. Starling asked coach Bobby Cunningham if he could remain on the court for all 40 minutes against the Gators.
He finished with 25 points, 16 rebounds, three assists and two steals in the 83-73 victory, which kept the Seahawks’ unbeaten record intact.
“I had a quick chat with Bobby before the game. I felt that it would be a disservice if I had not left everything on the court last night,” Starling said.
“That was a dedication to a childhood friend of mine, Christopher Guthrie. I’ve known him through sport from since I can remember, he’s a great guy. I went to high school with him, played AAU (Amateur Athletic Union) basketball with him. He’s just a good friend and a good dude all round.”
Starling said Guthrie helped him secure a spot with AAU club Miami International — a stint which helped him make a name for himself in basketball.
“Had he not given me that opportunity, I don’t know how I would’ve turned out as a basketballer,” he said. “AAU was where I gained confidence to take on opposing teams, so big credit to him.”
He was proud of his performance against the Gators. But memories of Guthrie came flooding back to him soon after victory was secured.
“After the final buzzer I was relieved I was able to get a win and have a great performance for a good friend of mine,” he said.
“Afterwards, everything starts to sink in again, emotions hit you. I broke down in tears back in the locker room.”
Cunningham said he admired the way Starling carried himself on the court.
“I know it was tough for him but what we saw from last night was nothing short of amazing. The sad thing is he did that in honour of his friend,” he said.
“He’ll have games where he’s not as effective but last night he was sensational. That’s not to say he hasn’t been sensational all year.
“But for him to play the game after getting bad news, it was a special moment to watch and be a part of.”
