Pitt's Legendary Hooper Joins Hall of Fame: DeJuan Blair's Remarkable Rise from the Hill District

On a momentous Friday night, the Pitt Athletics Hall of Fame welcomed ten legendary Panthers, including the remarkable DeJuan Blair, a former men's basketball standout who left an indelible mark on the program. Blair's journey from the historic Hill District of Pittsburgh to the pinnacle of college basketball is a testament to his unwavering determination and exceptional talent.

Dominating the Hardwood: DeJuan Blair's Pitt Legacy

A Prodigy from the Hill District

DeJuan Blair's story is one of humble beginnings and extraordinary achievements. Hailing from the iconic Hill District of Pittsburgh, just a stone's throw away from the Petersen Events Center, Blair's roots were firmly planted in the heart of the city. Despite the challenges that often come with growing up in an urban environment, Blair's passion for the game of basketball burned brightly, and he was determined to make his mark on the sport.

Bulldozing the Competition

As a Panther, Blair's impact was immediate and undeniable. Standing at 6-foot-7, he possessed a unique blend of size, strength, and relentless energy that allowed him to dominate the paint. Opposing players often found themselves outmatched and overwhelmed by Blair's rugged and physical style of play. His ability to outmuscle taller opponents and secure crucial rebounds made him a nightmare for any team that dared to challenge him.

A Meteoric Rise to Stardom

Blair's collegiate career was nothing short of remarkable. In his sophomore season, he averaged a staggering double-double, posting 15.7 points and 12.3 rebounds per game. His dominant performances earned him a spot on the 2009 AP First Team All-American, a prestigious honor that had eluded Pitt basketball players since the legendary Don Hennon in 1959. Blair's impact extended beyond individual accolades, as he led the Panthers to a 31-5 record and a berth in the Elite Eight of the 2009 NCAA Tournament. During that historic season, Pitt achieved its first-ever No. 1 national ranking, a testament to Blair's ability to elevate the entire team.

Earning Prestigious Accolades

Blair's collegiate career was marked by a string of impressive achievements. In addition to his All-American selection, he was named the Big East Co-Player of the Year in 2009, further solidifying his status as one of the most dominant players in the conference. As a freshman, Blair had already made a name for himself, earning Big East Co-Rookie of the Year and Freshman All-America honors, a clear indication of his immense potential.

Paving the Way for the Next Generation

Blair's impact on Pitt basketball extended beyond his individual accomplishments. His play on the court lifted the Panthers to new heights, including the 2008 Big East Tournament title. By leading the team to unprecedented success, Blair paved the way for future generations of Pitt players to aspire to similar levels of excellence. His induction into the Pitt Athletics Hall of Fame is a fitting tribute to his legacy, ensuring that his name will forever be etched in the annals of the university's storied basketball history.

Transitioning to the NBA

Blair's journey did not end with his collegiate career. He was selected by the San Antonio Spurs as the 37th overall pick in the 2009 NBA Draft, marking the beginning of his professional basketball journey. Over the course of seven seasons in the NBA, Blair showcased his versatility and tenacity, playing for the Spurs, Dallas Mavericks, and Washington Wizards. While his NBA career may not have reached the same heights as his college dominance, Blair's ability to carve out a respectable professional career is a testament to his resilience and adaptability.