Freddie Owens is the author of the book “Echoes of Stark Park” which tells his story of basketball, community, and faith. Owens takes readers from the heart of Milwaukee’s north side to the pressure of the Big Ten and the isolation of professional basketball overseas, revealing the lessons that shaped him far beyond the game. Freddie is a veteran NCAA Division I coach with over 20 years of NCAA Division I coaching experience, including stints at Oregon State, Iowa State, Montana and Holy Cross. As a player at Wisconsin, Owens delivered one of the most iconic shots in Badger history, a game-winning three-pointer against Tulsa to propel Wisconsin to the 2003 Sweet 16. Freddie is a 4-time NCAA Tournament Player (2001, 2002, 2003, 2004) A 4-time NCAA Tournament Coach (2010, 2012, 2013, 2016) Freddie recently stepped away from the coaching profession and is currently a Health and Physical Education teacher in the Green Bay Area. On this episode Mike & Freddie discuss his journey through life and basketball as chronicled in Owens’ compelling book, “Echoes of Stark Park”, which serves as both a memoir and a legacy piece for his son. The narrative begins with Owens’ formative years in Milwaukee, where he navigated the challenges of growing up in a tough environment marked by socioeconomic struggles and familial instability. Despite these adversities, Owens was propelled by an intrinsic desire to achieve greatness, both in basketball and in life. He reflects on the influence of his father, a community figure who instilled in him the values of hard work and resilience, and he recounts how basketball became his sanctuary, allowing him to escape the harsh realities of his surroundings. Through his narrative, Owens emphasizes the importance of support systems, highlighting the individuals in his life who helped guide him through the tumultuous periods, ultimately shaping him into the successful man he is today. The book delves into the multifaceted lessons learned on and off the court, portraying basketball as a metaphor for life’s challenges. Owens candidly shares his experiences, including the iconic game-winning shot against Tulsa during the 2003 NCAA tournament, which not only marked a significant milestone in his athletic career but also served as a testament to his perseverance and determination. His story is not only about personal triumph; it is also a tribute to the community that rallied around him, showcasing how collective support can uplift individuals facing adversity. Through meticulous detail and heartfelt anecdotes, Owens crafts a narrative that resonates with anyone who has ever faced obstacles in pursuit of their dreams, offering valuable insights into resilience, identity, and the legacies we leave behind for future generations. Follow us on Twitter and Instagram @hoopheadspod for the latest updates on episodes, guests, and events from the Hoop Heads Pod. 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