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The journey of Florida Gators sophomore forward Tuongthach Gatkek
(Courtesy: Courtney Culbreath/UAA Communications)

The journey of Florida Gators sophomore forward Tuongthach Gatkek

GAINESVILLE, Fla. — The road less travelled by is often assumed to be the least appealing. But once at the destination, where it provides a fulfilling result, that road becomes the most memorable and even deeply cherished. For Tuongthach Gatkek, the journey to reach NCAA Division I basketball has been arduous. Yet, he has an enveloping feeling of gratitude for having the opportunity to prove he can make it at this level. And perhaps develop his talents to compete at a higher one.

At 6-foot-9 and a mere 175 pounds, this tall and svelte forward is a sophomore transfer from Trinity Valley Community College (TVCC) in Athens, Texas. In fact, he grew up in Texas playing high school basketball at Caprock High School but didn’t receive the attention other athletes did from Division I schools. But given his love for the game, he desired to pursue his passion and craft his skills at the junior college level.

At TVCC, Tuongthach Gatkek produced some eye-opening numbers. He averaged 9.7 points, collected 6.9 rebounds and impressively managed to have 2.2 blocks per game. It’s evident that Gatkek takes great pleasure in denying the opposition from scoring. But he also has a feel for where the ball might land from a missed shot given his rebounding prowess.

His performances were rewarded by the award givers as Gatkek earned an All-Region XIV Honorable mention for his contributions at TVCC’s 23-3 record. His most notable outing was when he had an 84.6 field goal percentage and scored a season high 23 points in a win over Tyler Junior College in March 17, 2021. Also in that game, Gatkek managed a double-double as he grabbed 12 rebounds and produced a resolute defensive performance by adding seven blocks to his stat sheet.

It’s the type of performance that would be noticed by Florida Gators head coach, Mike White, given the old sports saying that “defense wins championships.” Gatkek will definitely be utilized in the rotation as a defensive threat considering his excellent feel for the game and awareness to prevent scorers from making their shots. His ability to score, although a secondary requirement, will also be an added bonus to the offense especially if we take into account Gatkek’s efficiency when taking shots.

This journey that Tuongthach Gatkek is on has the potential to result as exemplary tale for young athletes who aren’t spotted or given the proper attention early in their career. It’s a story that teaches us that hard work, persistence, drive and passion are not just fleeting words but motivations that inspire development. It’s a road that is less travelled to reach the ultimate goal and Gatkek is proving to us that the bumps we endure along the way only make us stronger.

This is an unedited user writing submission. The views, information, or opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of Best Version Media or its employees.

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