The University of Wisconsin-Green Bay has honored Keifer Sykes by retiring his No. 24 jersey, a momentous occasion that took place during a pre-scrimmage ceremony. This recognition comes over a decade after Sykes' final collegiate game for the Green Bay men's basketball team. The ceremony was a heartwarming affair, with Sykes reflecting on his four years as a Phoenix player. Standing alongside his two children at the Kress Center, he watched a video montage of his time at Green Bay, featuring congratulatory messages from his former head coach, Brian Wardle, and other notable figures.
The highlight of the ceremony was the unveiling of Sykes' jersey, which now hangs proudly in the rafters. This achievement marks Sykes as the sixth former Green Bay men's basketball player to have their jersey retired, joining the ranks of Tony Bennett, Jeff Nordgaard, Dennis Woelffer, Tom Anderson, and Ron Ripley. Sykes expressed his overwhelming emotions, stating, 'It's very special. Feels surreal. I just feel overwhelmed with love, overwhelmed with joy.'
Sykes' basketball journey began with limited scholarship opportunities, as he received offers from only two Division I programs: Eastern Illinois and UW-Green Bay. Choosing the Phoenix, he played from 2011 to 2015, becoming the starting point guard in his true freshman season. By the end of his time at Green Bay, he was the program's second all-time leading scorer, behind Tony Bennett. Sykes attributes his success to his young age and the intangibles he possessed, stating, 'I was very young, the youngest freshman in the country at 17.'
In August, Sykes took on a new role as the Green Bay men's basketball general manager, a position that allows him to give back to his alma mater. He collaborates with coaches and alumni to recruit and mentor players, navigating the complexities of NIL and NCAA rules. Sykes' dedication to his alma mater is evident in his desire to help players make informed decisions about their future.
Sykes' college basketball career was filled with accolades, including being named the Horizon League Player of the Year twice. Despite falling one win short of leading Green Bay to the NCAA Tournament in his senior season, he never imagined his jersey number being retired. Sykes attributes his success to his quiet confidence and big dreams, stating, 'I feel like I always had a quiet confidence and big dreams and goals that I held to myself. I held that standard, which made me reach those goals.' This recognition is a testament to his hard work and dedication, making it all the more meaningful.
