The Griffon News

For many athletes sports is life, but one athlete has more than just sports on his plate.

Brian Videau will assume the role of leader this upcoming basketball season. The 6’5” forward from Sacramento, Calif. said that Missouri Western was the right fit from the start.

“When I came on my visit I appreciated the atmosphere,” Videau said. “Coach Smith was genuine. He let me know that everything will have to be earned.”

Videau felt a family connection here, something that is very important to him. He said he was treated like a little brother when he first arrived.

Head coach Tom Smith knows that Videau is an easy person to get along with.

“I absolutely love the kid and his personality,” Smith said. “We clicked on his visit. He is a great kid, the top five kids I’ve ever had in my 32 years as a head coach. He is a good student, has good character and his goals are in line.”

Videau is here to better his life and the life of his family, a family that includes two young boys. Videau’s two children are waiting patiently back in California.

“They are my inspiration,” Videau said. “I do it for them. My dad always told me that ‘Without struggle there’s no progression,’.”

Videau was brought in because he can play many different ways. “He’s an in between size,” Smith said.

“He can go in and out, shoot the three or play in the paint. He had these skills and the effort was there, but there was still a problem in Videau’s game. He wondered where he fit,” Smith said. “He was tentative at times, and it led to mistakes.”

Videau said he learned from last year, and he will use his experience to an advantage.

“Now I will groom the new guys and pave the way for them,” Videau said.

Now he will be taking the leadership role in his senior season.

“I have to be a leader and lead through example,” Videau said. “I have to practice what I preach. I play hard and do what I need to do to try to bring a MIAA Championship to Missouri Western.”

This leadership is exactly what the Griffons need and it will produce wins, but one day there will be no more basketball for Brian Videau.

“I’m here to get my degree,” Videau said. “After ball I’m going to intern in Southern California. I will become a business corporate in the public relations department.”

Videau will take his experience and use it in the business world, but before that he will have one last season to play.