Former University of the Cumberlands men’s basketball Patriot Luke Fitzgerald has taken his athleticism and work ethic to a new level. Recently, Fitzgerald took home the MVP award at the Diamond Midwest Invitational held in Waukesha, Wisconsin at Carroll University where he averaged 20 points and 7.5 rebounds. In addition, Fitzgerald was named to the First Team All-Diamond team following the event.

The Diamond Midwest Invitational’s goal is to provide each player with the best possible opportunity to showcase their talent in front of a variety of professional personnel. They strive to make sure every player’s experience is the best and will help in any way, even after the event, to promote the player. In today's volatile economy, players need the most cost effective, legitimate exposure opportunity possible.

“Anytime you get the opportunity to showcase your talents in front of professional scouts and GM's from all over the world, it’s always a privilege,” said Luke Fitzgerald. “I'm just glad that I was given that opportunity.”

University of the Cumberlands head men’s basketball coach Don Butcher said, “Luke played at an exposure camp for ex-college players and pros last weekend as was voted the Most Valuable Player of the camp. After our season he stayed in great shape and played every day. Now all the hard work he has put in over the last five years is paying off. His best days are still in front of him. He is hungry to be a professional basketball player and it is showing with his play. I believe the sky is the limit for Luke.”

Fitzgerald averaged 17.2 points per game in his final season which ranked him number four in the Mid-South Conference and #41 in NAIA Division I. Also, Luke pulled down 7.9 rebounds per game earning him second in the Mid-South Conference and 31st in NAIA. Fitzgerald ranked number two in the Mid-South Conference and sixth in the NAIA for field goal percentage. He shot 60.4% (201-333) from the field this season. He was named the Mid-South Conference Player of the Year and was included in the 2009 State Farm NAIA All-American First Team.
Fitzgerald should have an excellent opportunity to sign a professional contract overseas of in the NBADL. Check in at www.ucumberlands.edu/athletics for more updates on Fitzgerald and the rest of Patriot athletics.