In elementary school, he was teased for his Ibo accent and the fact that he looked different from other kids.
As a tall, lanky 7-year-old, Al Anagonye remembers the culture shock and prejudice he felt coming to suburban Southfield after a five-year hiatus with his family in Lagos, Nigeria.
But as an emerging team leader, scoring a career high 13 points in MSU’s 81-65 win over Fresno State Sunday, Anagonye - who has started eight of the last nine games - is making a statement of his own.
And nobody’s laughing now.
“When I see that the team is clicking and that everyone is having a good game, that’s what I’m happy for,” Anagonye said of his performance. “If I make a big deal about it then that means I’m not focused on what I’m doing. The only thing I’m focused on right now is winning another championship.”
With a chiseled physique and a 7-foot-4 wing span, Anagonye is an intimidator and vocal presence on the court, readily accepting responsibility to call out defensive plays and motivate teammates.
Senior forward Andre Hutson, who has served as a valuable mentor for the sophomore the past two seasons, said Anagonye’s play is vital for a second straight national title.
“He’s been real big for us,” Hutson said of Anagonye’s development on both ends of the floor. “I think all the hard work he’s put into his game has really paid off. Al has a better understanding of what his role is on the team and that’s what has led to much of his improved play.”
Anagonye, who has been on a championship team since his junior year at Detroit’s DePorres High, said he appreciates what Hutson has done for him.
“Andre is a tough player and a great person,” Anagonye said. “He’s an excellent teacher who has helped me out a great deal. I look up to him and see how he’s set an example of excellence on this team.”
In an elite program known for its toughness and camaraderie among its players and coaches, Anagonye was recognized at MSU’s annual Basketball Bust for his continuing effort to make sacrifices for the team.
The 6-foot-8 forward won the Antonio Smith Glue and Guts Award, named after the former player who epitomized determination and leadership after playing much of last year’s postseason with a stress fracture in his foot.
“Any award that I receive is something I’m proud of,” Anagonye said. “But that award is special since I know how much Antonio meant to (head) coach (Tom) Izzo and this program. I’m trying to develop into that kind of leader myself. Coach recruits people that he likes as people not just as players, so it means a lot to me for him to hold me in such a high regard.”
Assistant head coach Brian Gregory, who helps prepare MSU’s second string against the starters each day in practice, has played an important role in Anagonye’s development as a role player. He said there’s no limit to his potential.
“He has a chance to be a power-player.” Gregory said. “He’s not afraid to get contact or give it either. Al will be the next Andre Hutson, a guy that can defend a tough post player and also score against them.”
Gregory said Anagonye’s unique trait is his eagerness to learn.
“Al has a great personality and enjoys being coached,” He said. “He’s definitely thirsty for knowledge about what he needs to do to improve. What makes him special is the fact that he wants to improve as fast as he can.”
Described as a “Spartan warrior” by MSU coaches, there’s no better time for another breakthrough performance from Anagonye then right now.
