School: Providence, 1981.
Position: Center.
College: DePaul, Marquette ’86.
The 6-foot-9-inch Downing was an All-State player who averaged 28 points, nine rebounds and five blocks in his senior season. He led the Celtics to a Class A state title in 1979 and played at DePaul for two years before transferring to Marquette. A late-round draft pick by the Los Angeles Lakers, Downing eventually was cut and played four seasons in Europe. He is currently the sophomore coach at Hinsdale South. His son, Duke, is a sophomore player at Montini.
What was your best performance in high school?
“I remember playing in the Pontiac Christmas tournament my senior year and we lost to Quincy for the title. That team had Michael Payne and Bruce Douglas and was ranked No. 1 in the country at the time. Against Payne, I had 30 points, 12 rebounds and five blocks.”
As a former player and now a parent, how do you view the game today?
“I know some parents who got way too involved and ran their kids away from sports. These kids have enough pressure on them already. Sometimes parents would be wise to stay out of their way.”
What advice would you have for college prospects?
“It was fun having everyone know me and having the respect of opposing players and coaches. That’s the greatest feeling in the world. It can be overwhelming at times, but it goes by so quickly. Once the phone stops ringing, that’s when you worry. Enjoy it while you can . . . it doesn’t last long.”
