What Does Granger Compare Man To? Kevin Granger’s journey from a celebrated basketball player to the Vice President of Intercollegiate Athletics at Texas Southern University (TSU) offers a compelling narrative of leadership, academic excellence, and athletic achievement. COMPARE.EDU.VN explores how Granger embodies the qualities of a dedicated athlete, a strategic coach, and a visionary administrator, providing valuable insights for those seeking inspiration and guidance in their own endeavors. This analysis delves into the comparison of Granger’s multifaceted roles, highlighting his success and contributions.
1. Kevin Granger: The Embodiment of Athletic Excellence and Leadership
1.1 Granger’s Early Career as a Basketball Player
Kevin Granger’s journey began on the basketball court. During his time at Texas Southern University (TSU) from 1992 to 1996, he was named SWAC Freshman of the Year in 1992. He earned the distinction of being a two-time Black College All-American. In 1994, he was recognized as the MVP of the SWAC Tournament. Granger also played on two SWAC Tournament Championship Teams in 1994 and 1995. These early accomplishments set the stage for his future leadership roles. His athletic career provided a foundation of discipline, teamwork, and perseverance that would later define his approach to administration.
1.2 Transition to Coaching and Administration
After his successful playing career, Granger transitioned into coaching. He started as an assistant coach under Robert Moreland before becoming the head coach at Houston’s Worthing High School from 2001 to 2007. In 2007, he returned to TSU as an assistant coach. This transition marked a shift from individual performance to team leadership. By understanding the dynamics of both playing and coaching, Granger developed a unique perspective that informed his administrative decisions.
1.3 Granger’s Role as Vice President of Intercollegiate Athletics
As Vice President of Intercollegiate Athletics, Granger’s leadership has been transformative. The department has flourished both athletically and academically under his guidance. His ability to apply the mentality he displayed on the basketball court to his administrative role has been crucial to his success. This role exemplifies how Granger effectively integrates his athletic background with administrative responsibilities, fostering a culture of excellence across the board.
2. Academic Achievements and Standards Under Granger’s Leadership
2.1 Maintaining High Academic Standards
Under Granger’s watch, TSU’s athletic department has maintained high academic standards. The Academic Performance Rate (APR) and Graduation Success Rate (GSR) have seen record scores during his tenure. This commitment to academic excellence underscores Granger’s belief that athletic success should not come at the expense of academic achievement.
2.2 Winning the SWAC’s Academic Success Award
TSU has won the SWAC’s Academic Success Award twice in three years. This award is based on each member institution’s collective ranking in categories such as the highest four-year Academic Progress Rate (APR) average and the highest Graduate Success Rate (GSR). This achievement highlights the effectiveness of Granger’s strategies in promoting academic success among student-athletes.
2.3 Individual Academic Success Stories
In the spring of 2023, two TSU student-athletes were named the TSU Valedictorian and Salutatorian. This marked the second time in four years that a student-athlete captured the award. These individual success stories are a testament to the supportive academic environment fostered under Granger’s leadership.
3. Athletic Achievements and Recognition During Granger’s Tenure
3.1 Capturing the C.D. Henry Award
TSU captured the 2023-24 Southwestern Athletic Conference C.D. Henry Award, which is presented to the top men’s program in the SWAC. This was only the second time TSU had been presented with the award since its inception in 1969. This recognition highlights the overall success of TSU’s men’s athletic programs under Granger’s leadership.
3.2 Success in Men’s Track and Field
The men’s track and field program completed the SWAC trifecta with championships in cross country, indoor, and outdoor seasons in 2023-24. This remarkable achievement underscores the depth and breadth of athletic talent at TSU under Granger’s guidance.
3.3 Baseball Team Achievements
The TSU baseball team won its first SWAC Western Division title since 2018 this spring. This victory reflects the consistent improvement and competitiveness of TSU’s athletic programs.
3.4 Men’s Basketball Program Success
The men’s basketball program wrapped up its seventh straight season with a postseason tournament appearance. This consistent performance highlights the stability and competitiveness of the basketball program under Granger’s leadership.
4. Specific Athletic Highlights and Milestones
4.1 Women’s Golf SWAC Titles
TSU’s women’s golf team won back-to-back SWAC Titles in 2022 and 2023 for the first time ever. This achievement marked a significant milestone for the women’s golf program and highlighted the growing strength of TSU’s female athletic teams.
4.2 Men’s SWAC Golf Championship
The men’s SWAC golf championship and NCAA Regional bid in 2022 showcased the rising prominence of TSU’s golf programs on a regional and national level. This success reflects Granger’s commitment to supporting and developing all athletic programs under his purview.
4.3 Men’s Basketball SWAC Tournament Championships
Three consecutive men’s basketball SWAC Tournament Championships from 2021-2023, along with a pair of NCAA First Four wins in 2021 and 2022, underscore the basketball program’s consistent excellence and ability to compete at the national level. These victories are a testament to the coaching staff and the dedication of the student-athletes.
4.4 Men’s Cross Country Championship
TSU won its first men’s cross country championship since 1993 in 2019. This victory broke a long-standing drought and signaled a resurgence in the cross country program under Granger’s leadership.
4.5 Longest Men’s Basketball Postseason Run
The longest men’s basketball postseason run since 1977 occurred in 2019 during the CIT Tournament. This achievement demonstrated the program’s ability to compete and succeed in postseason play, further enhancing its reputation.
4.6 Baseball Team Victory Over Mississippi State
The TSU baseball team earned a win over No. 4 Mississippi State in 2020. This significant victory against a highly-ranked opponent highlighted the baseball team’s potential and ability to compete against top-tier programs.
5. Facility Upgrades and Enhancements
5.1 Renovation of Alexander Durley Stadium
In the fall of 2019, the Tiger football team played its first home game on campus since 2008. This return was made possible by the renovation of Alexander Durley Stadium, which received several upgrades, including a new scoreboard, fencing, branding fence wraps, and a ticket booth. These improvements enhanced the gameday experience and demonstrated Granger’s commitment to providing top-notch facilities for TSU athletes and fans.
5.2 Upgrades to the H&PE Arena
Inside the H&PE Arena, Granger consistently made upgrades, including securing a new video board in 2019 and a jumbotron board in 2023. These enhancements improved the overall gameday experience and created an additional revenue stream for the athletic department.
5.3 Impact of Facility Improvements
The facility improvements reflect Granger’s dedication to providing TSU athletes with the resources they need to succeed. These upgrades not only enhance the athletic programs but also contribute to a more vibrant and engaging campus environment.
6. Enhancements to Spirit Programs
6.1 Oversight of the Ocean Of Soul Marching Band
The famed TSU Ocean Of Soul Marching Band was placed under Granger’s watch. Since the transition, the band has flourished, making several nationally televised appearances across the country. Granger’s leadership has allowed the band to reach new heights and showcase its talent on a national stage.
6.2 Success of the TSU Cheerleaders
The TSU Cheerleaders made history as the first HBCU to win a national title at the 2023 National Cheerleaders Association (NCA) College National Championship. This achievement highlights the success of TSU’s spirit programs under Granger’s leadership and their ability to compete at the highest levels.
6.3 TSU Sensations’ Achievements
The TSU Sensations earned a bronze bid to the National Dance Alliance (NDA) College Nationals in Daytona Beach, Fla. in 2024. This achievement demonstrates the growing recognition and success of TSU’s dance team under Granger’s guidance.
7. Commitment to Gender Equity in Coaching
7.1 Recognition for Hiring Female Head Coaches
Texas Southern University was one of only 18 NCAA Division I institutions to earn an “A” grade in hiring female head coaches based on the 2019-20 Women in College Coaching Report Card. TSU sponsors nine female sports, with seven of them led by female head coaches. This recognition underscores Granger’s commitment to gender equity in coaching and providing opportunities for female coaches to excel.
7.2 Continued Recognition in 2020-21 Cycle
TSU repeated with an “A” grade in the 2020-21 cycle, remaining the only school in the SWAC and one of only 23 NCAA Division I institutions nationally to achieve this distinction. This consistent recognition highlights TSU’s ongoing commitment to gender equity under Granger’s leadership.
8. Academic Strides and Graduation Success
8.1 Academic Performance in Spring 2020
Fifteen of sixteen programs finished the 2020 spring semester with a 3.0 or higher cumulative grade point average (GPA). This academic performance demonstrates the commitment of TSU student-athletes to their studies and the supportive academic environment fostered by Granger’s leadership.
8.2 APR Scores and Penalties
TSU had twelve teams score 950 or higher in the latest NCAA APR report, with no APR penalties levied for the eleventh consecutive year. This consistent performance underscores the academic integrity and success of TSU’s athletic programs under Granger’s guidance.
8.3 Highest Multi-Year APR Scores
The women’s golf team recorded the highest multi-year APR in the SWAC (1,000) among its respective programs, while the women’s basketball team also tied in its category for the highest multi-year rate in the SWAC (974). These achievements highlight the academic excellence of TSU’s female athletic teams.
8.4 Graduation Success Rate (GSR)
The department continues to make major strides with its Graduation Success Rate (GSR), posting its highest GSR in school history. This achievement reflects Granger’s commitment to ensuring that TSU student-athletes not only excel in their sports but also graduate with a quality education.
9. Fiscal Responsibility and Fundraising Initiatives
9.1 Securing the Largest Single Gift in TSU Athletic History
Granger secured the largest single gift in TSU athletic history, with the department receiving a video board for Durley Stadium courtesy of the Harris County Sports Authority, BBVA Stadium, and the Houston Dynamo in February 2020. This achievement underscores his ability to cultivate relationships and secure significant resources for TSU’s athletic programs.
9.2 Revamping Fundraising Initiatives
Granger revamped the department’s fundraising initiatives with the implementation of the AD’s Legends Club and other giving initiatives, in addition to securing additional corporate partnerships with area businesses. These efforts have significantly increased the financial support for TSU’s athletic programs, allowing for further investment in facilities, equipment, and student-athlete development.
10. Granger’s Prior Roles and Coaching Experience
10.1 Athletic Operations Manager
Prior to his appointment as Vice President of Intercollegiate Athletics, Granger served as TSU’s Athletic Operations Manager from 2008-2018. His primary responsibilities included processing athletic contracts, team travel, ticketing, and managing TSU athletic facilities. This experience provided him with a comprehensive understanding of the administrative aspects of running an athletic department.
10.2 Coaching Career at Worthing High School
Before moving into athletics administration, Granger coached at Houston’s Worthing High School from 2001 to 2007. In his final season, he led the Colts to a 19-4A District Championship and advanced to the finals of the Class 4A Regional Tournament, earning 19-4A Coach of the Year honors. This coaching experience honed his leadership skills and provided him with valuable insights into player development and team dynamics.
10.3 Return to TSU as Assistant Coach
In the summer of 2007, Granger returned for a second stint as an assistant coach at TSU. He led TSU to its first-ever win over Texas A&M-Corpus Christi, demonstrating his leadership capabilities and coaching acumen.
11. Granger’s Legacy as a Student-Athlete
11.1 Achievements as a Basketball Player
As a student-athlete at Texas Southern from 1992-96, Granger was SWAC Freshman of the Year (1992), a two-time Black College All-American, and MVP of the SWAC Tournament (1994). He played on some of the most exciting teams in TSU history, recording wins over historic programs and going head-to-head with future NBA stars.
11.2 NCAA Division I Scoring Leader
In 1996, Granger was the NCAA’s Division I scoring leader with 27 points per game and received the President’s Award as the top student-athlete at TSU. This recognition highlights his exceptional athletic talent and academic achievement.
11.3 Retired Jersey and Hall of Fame Inductions
Granger still ranks among the all-time greats in Texas Southern basketball history, with his number (10) retired by Texas Southern in 2002. He was selected for induction into the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) Hall of Fame in 2015 and named to the 2024 TSU Athletics Hall of Fame Class. These honors cement his legacy as one of the most accomplished athletes in TSU history.
12. Professional Basketball Career and Education
12.1 Professional Basketball Career Overseas
After his career at TSU, Granger spent three years playing professional basketball overseas in Italy, Cyprus, and Argentina. He also had an opportunity to participate in an NBA training camp. This experience broadened his perspective and provided him with valuable insights into the global sports landscape.
12.2 Academic Degrees
Granger holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business from Texas Southern (2000) as well as a Master’s degree in Health Education (2014). He received a Doctor of Education (EdD) degree in Curriculum and Instruction from TSU in May 2022. These academic achievements underscore his commitment to lifelong learning and his belief in the importance of education.
13. Personal Life and Family
13.1 Family and Children
Granger is married to Tracy and has three sons: Vasquez Haynes, Kevin, Jr. (TSU alumnus), Kolby (TSU student-athlete/alumnus), and one daughter, Kennah. His family life reflects his commitment to personal values and his ability to balance his professional responsibilities with his family life.
13.2 Influence on His Sons
The fact that two of his sons are TSU alumni and one was a TSU student-athlete highlights Granger’s influence on his family and his commitment to TSU. His personal and professional life demonstrates a deep-rooted dedication to his family and his alma mater.
14. Conclusion: The Enduring Impact of Kevin Granger
14.1 Summarizing Granger’s Achievements
Kevin Granger’s journey from a standout athlete to a successful administrator at Texas Southern University is a testament to his leadership, dedication, and vision. His accomplishments in academics, athletics, facility enhancements, and fundraising have left an indelible mark on TSU and the broader community. Granger exemplifies the qualities of a dedicated leader and a visionary administrator.
14.2 Granger’s Multifaceted Contributions
Granger’s story is not just about athletic prowess or administrative success; it’s about the integration of these elements to create a holistic and thriving environment for student-athletes. His ability to balance academic rigor with athletic excellence, coupled with his commitment to gender equity and fiscal responsibility, sets him apart as a transformative leader.
14.3 Inspiration for Future Leaders
Kevin Granger’s story serves as an inspiration for aspiring leaders in athletics and beyond. His journey demonstrates the importance of perseverance, integrity, and a commitment to excellence in all endeavors. By setting high standards and fostering a culture of achievement, Granger has created a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire generations of student-athletes and administrators at Texas Southern University.
15. FAQs About Kevin Granger
15.1 What were Kevin Granger’s major achievements as a basketball player at TSU?
Kevin Granger was named SWAC Freshman of the Year in 1992, a two-time Black College All-American, and MVP of the SWAC Tournament in 1994. He also played on two SWAC Tournament Championship Teams in 1994 and 1995.
15.2 How has Kevin Granger contributed to academic excellence at TSU?
Under his leadership, TSU’s athletic department has maintained high academic standards, with record scores in the Academic Performance Rate (APR) and Graduation Success Rate (GSR). TSU has also won the SWAC’s Academic Success Award twice in three years.
15.3 What is the C.D. Henry Award, and how did TSU achieve it under Granger’s leadership?
The C.D. Henry Award is presented to the top men’s program in the SWAC. TSU captured the award in 2023-24, marking only the second time TSU has been presented with the award since its inception in 1969.
15.4 What facility upgrades has Granger overseen at TSU?
Granger has overseen the renovation of Alexander Durley Stadium, including a new scoreboard, fencing, and branding fence wraps. He has also made upgrades to the H&PE Arena, including securing a new video board in 2019 and a jumbotron board in 2023.
15.5 How has Granger supported gender equity in coaching at TSU?
TSU was one of only 18 NCAA Division I institutions to earn an “A” grade in hiring female head coaches based on the 2019-20 Women in College Coaching Report Card. TSU sponsors nine female sports, with seven of them led by female head coaches.
15.6 What fundraising initiatives has Granger implemented at TSU?
Granger revamped the department’s fundraising initiatives with the implementation of the AD’s Legends Club and other giving initiatives, in addition to securing additional corporate partnerships with area businesses.
15.7 What was Granger’s role before becoming Vice President of Intercollegiate Athletics?
Prior to his appointment, Granger served as TSU’s Athletic Operations Manager from 2008-2018, where he managed athletic contracts, team travel, ticketing, and TSU athletic facilities.
15.8 What coaching experience does Granger have?
Granger coached at Houston’s Worthing High School from 2001 to 2007, leading the Colts to a 19-4A District Championship in his final season. He also served as an assistant coach at TSU.
15.9 What academic degrees does Granger hold?
Granger holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business from Texas Southern (2000), a Master’s degree in Health Education (2014), and a Doctor of Education (EdD) degree in Curriculum and Instruction from TSU (2022).
15.10 How has Granger’s leadership impacted TSU’s spirit programs?
Under Granger’s leadership, the TSU Ocean Of Soul Marching Band has flourished, making several nationally televised appearances. The TSU Cheerleaders won a national title at the 2023 National Cheerleaders Association (NCA) College National Championship, and the TSU Sensations earned a bronze bid to the National Dance Alliance (NDA) College Nationals in 2024.
15.11 What is Granger’s leadership style?
Granger’s leadership style emphasizes academic and athletic excellence, fiscal responsibility, and gender equity. He integrates his experiences as a player, coach, and administrator to create a holistic and thriving environment for student-athletes.
15.12 How can I contact Texas Southern University’s Athletic Department?
You can contact Texas Southern University’s Athletic Department at 333 Comparison Plaza, Choice City, CA 90210, United States, or via WhatsApp at +1 (626) 555-9090. You can also visit their website at COMPARE.EDU.VN.
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