The Raleigh Sports Club honored Ravenscroft varsity basketball player Dakota Gordon ’23 as their Student-Athlete of the Week at their weekly luncheon on Wednesday, March 1. Ernie Myers, an NC State radio basketball analyst and member of the famous NC State 1983 NCAA Championship basketball team, was the guest speaker.

Dakota was selected for this recognition based on his excellent academic record, community service and success in the basketball arena. 

For head boys varsity basketball coach Kevin Billerman, the recognition was no surprise, given the dedication and character Dakota — a two-time team Most Valuable Player who intends to play for Washington and Lee next year — has demonstrated in his role on the team.

“Every team that we played over the last two years has focused their defense on not allowing Dakota to get open shots. When he realized this, he came to me and said, ‘I don’t care how many shots I get, let’s just win,’” Billerman said. “This type of unselfishness and leadership led to 25 wins, a Holiday Tournament championship and a TISAC championship. He is the epitome of a Ravenscroft student-athlete.”

Raleigh Sports Club is in its 57th year of providing weekly luncheons featuring speakers representing all parts of the college and professional athletic scene. Dakota was accompanied at the event by his parents, Athletic Director Ned Gonet and Assistant Athletic Director Jim Gibbons.

“Being chosen as the RSC’s student-athlete of the week was an extremely prestigious honor, and I had an amazing time at their weekly luncheon interacting with their members, enjoying a great meal and hearing Mr. Meyers speak,” Dakota said of the experience.

Gordon stayed busy the remainder of the week as he was among the athletes selected to participate in the 10th Annual North Carolina Private School All-Star Basketball Game, held at Providence Day School on Saturday, March 4.

“Participating in the NCISAA East West All-Star was an awesome experience, and I am extremely grateful to have been chosen to represent Ravenscroft,” he said. “While the actual game was a great experience, I found the community service we got to do at Samaritans Feet in Charlotte even more rewarding and fulfilling.”