Spartans of UD - Grady Thompson

Spartans of UD highlights what makes the University of Dubuque special - the people.

Grady Thompson, of Princeton, Illinois, is a sophomore business administration major who is a guard on the men's basketball team. He finished his sophomore season as the Spartans second-leading scorer, averaging 14.2 points per game. Grady had a career-high 29 points against Loras College to close out the regular season. He also led the Spartans with 41 made 3-pointers. He was recently named an A-R-C All-Conference second team performer. The Spartans won the A-R-C regular season championship for the 11th time in program history.

How did you get into basketball?

"When I was nine years old, I was relaxing in the living room when my dad came downstairs and asked if I wanted to participate in a free throw contest the next day. I thought, 'Why not?' and ended up winning the contest, which ignited my passion for basketball. Later that year, I advanced to the state contest and finished in third place. That experience not only sparked my love for the game but also taught me an important lesson - that with hard work and dedication, you can excel at anything you set your mind to."

What do you enjoy most about basketball?

"What I enjoy most about basketball is how it constantly challenges my focus. The game requires me to continuously learn new plays, both for our team and in response to our opponents. The season is long, and throughout it, we face a variety of teams, each with their own unique playing styles. Staying focused during every practice and game is essential, as it allows me to adapt and perform at my best."

The University of Dubuque men's basketball team pulled off a 90-86 double overtime win over the Loras College Duhawks to conclude the regular season on February 22, 2025. You made a critical layup, plus the foul shot to send the game to the second overtime and two free throws in the final second to seal the game for the Spartans, finishing with a career-high 29 points. How did you and your teammates stay focused during such an intense game?

"With three of our starters sidelined, we found ourselves facing a tough challenge. We knew we had to rely on each other. Everyone had a role to play in this game: players, coaches, and the bench. Our team is incredibly talented, and we believed that with fresh legs from the bench, we had what it took to outlast Loras, especially since many of their players were exhausted from playing the full game. As one of the more experienced players left on the court, I knew I had a responsibility to step up to help lead. I've learned to stay calm and focused in high-pressure situations, thanks to the many close games I've played in my basketball career. However, game-time composure isn't solely built on experience. Dedicated practice is extremely important. Beyond team practices, individual repetition of shots like three-point shooting and free throws is essential. Free throws, as this game demonstrated, can be the deciding factor, ultimately sealing a hard-fought victory. The Loras game is definitely one for the books and one of my all-time favorite games I've played in."

What advice has a teammate given you that you have shared with others to pay it forward?

"The best advice I've ever received from a teammate is to simply have fun. I believe this is important, especially in sports. At the end of the day, the reason we play the game is to enjoy it. Sometimes, though, whether it's due to the pressures of life or the desire to perform well, we can forget to just have fun. I always make it a point to remind the kids I train back home to enjoy the game and not to put too much pressure on themselves. After all, it's the fun that keeps us coming back, no matter the outcome."

In your opinion, what makes the University of Dubuque unique?

"The sense of community at the University of Dubuque is what truly makes it special. With its smaller campus, students can form closer connections with one another and develop meaningful relationships with the professors, staff, and administrators. I have seen several faculty members at campus events and at our home basketball games, showing their support. This sense of connection with the students creates a truly unique and welcoming environment."