In the fall 2011 semester, St. Vincent University junior Ryan Nelson, 20, will have to choose between his two loves: music and basketball.
It hurt Nelson that he could not have both in his life, but it is beginning to be very stressful and taking up a majority of his time. In a sense, it felt like he was cheating on one with the other, as if music was his life and basketball was a girlfriend.
According to Nelson, he has been a musician ever since he could remember.
“My dad always had the best music on in the car and when you’re surrounded with great music, it drives the love even more,” he said.
His father would sing along to the Temptations and Maxwell as they traveled from place to place. Nelson caught on quickly and began to sing too. Eventually, he began to test out instruments.
“I didn’t play instruments until fourth grade because my elementary school only allowed us to at that age. Also, because my parents could not afford to buy me expensive instruments, especially since they did not know if I would continue playing them. I didn’t mind though; I still loved them,” Nelson explained.
At this point, it was obvious how much Nelson cared about his family. His sincere, yet calm tone matched his heart-felt words. He smiled and continued to elucidate his musical journey.
Nelson’s favorite instrument to play was and still is the saxophone, but he also plays the drums and piano. As he grew up, he focused more on the saxophone.
In high school, he played in a self-made jazz band called “The Vibe.”
There were two other members of the band. Both were younger than Nelson but had the about the same musical talent. John Thomas played the drums, while Brandon Flournoy stroked the keys of the piano.
Nelson’s best friend and musical supporter, Erin Hager of Carlow University has been at numerous performances that The Vibe has put on.
Hager specifically remembers his high-school talent show performance.
“Say Yes by Floetry is my favorite song that they played. I remember screaming and cheering along with the large crowd of students and family members.”
Hager describes Nelson’s music as “awesome” and said she will continue to support him in his future musical endeavors. Her face lit up as she spoke of her best friend. Her pearly white teeth shined like the star she thought Nelson would become.
Nelson’s musical talent didn’t come without support. He gives thanks to his high school teachers Mr. Watkins and Mr. Lane for pushing him and standing behind him and his dreams.
“They became somewhat of advisors for me. That really helped, because at the time, that’s what I needed. I would have quit without them being there,” he said.
Mr. Watkins and Mr. Lane are still in Nelson’s life after three years of college. They encourage him to do his best and strive for success. They teach him that success is what he makes of it. If he feels that playing music or basketball, or even a career in mathematics is successful, then go for it one hundred percent. This is where his dilemma began.
When his horn wasn’t blowing the sounds of neo soul jazz, his Nike tennis shoes screeched down the basketball court.
Nelson says that since he can remember becoming a fan of music at the age of four, he can remember playing basketball.
It started with a game of H.O.R.S.E., which he describes as a basketball game for children and basketball beginners. The purpose of the game is to make each basket, because once you start to miss you begin to spell out the word HORSE.
One missed shot, H; on the second missed shot, O and the game continued this way until players were eliminated for missing five shots and there was one player left on the court. Nelson was always the last one standing.
Basketball was a way for Nelson to stay out of trouble and off of the streets. He says that being a black man is not easy, especially when all of the odds are against you. High school basketball gave him the motivation to continue in college.
Teammate Henry Utku, St. Vincent Sophomore describes Nelson as a “passionate” player.
“He plays hard, never gives up, and gives his all, which makes him a great player,” said Utku.
Nelson has loved the two, music and sports equally and will miss one of them dearly.
Because juggling a full time class schedule, playing music and sports is “chaotic.”
Nelson said, “I’m going to have to choose music or sports.”
He wants to become the best he can be at one, because splitting the dedication between the two is hurting him more than helping, he said.
He remembers that Mr. Lane and Mr. Watkins told him to give one hundred percent to everything that he would pursue. Nelson knew doing both was not an option.
He covered his face with his hands for about a minute. The room became a coping place for Nelson. It seemed as though he was mourning the death of his first love -- basketball.
In an instant, he pulled up from his misery and smiled.
He said “It’s ok. I will always have a chance at basketball and I can continue to practice.” A smile took over his face. It was obvious that he was content with his decision.
Playing professional basketball is now the least of his worries. Nelson wants to continue focusing on his education and his music.
Whether he is playing music or playing sports, and whether he
is the most valuable player in the auditorium or on the court,
Nelson continues to strive for the best.
“I will never forget what Mr. Watkins told me on the last
day of school,” said Nelson. “Always remember that
perfection is something that we strive for with the knowledge
that we will never be perfect. The harder you work, the more
frustration will fade away."
