Dominique Wilkins has meant everything to the state of Georgia.
Since leaving home in North Carolina to attend the University of Georgia in 1979, Wilkins was nothing short of amazing on the basketball. A very talented small forward, he totaled 21.6 points per game over a three-year career and won Southeastern Conference Player of the Year during his junior season in 1981.
Upon being the No. 3 overall pick in the 1982 NBA Draft, Wilkins was selected by the Utah Jazz but would be known as a the “Human Highlight reel” for his efforts with the Atlanta Hawks. Twelve of his 17 pro seasons (1982-94) were spent in Atlanta, as he was a nine-time All-Star, All-NBA first team (1986), NBA scoring champion (1986) and a two-time Slam Dunk Champion (1985, 1990).
Even with his No. 21 jersey retired and the respect he receives from native Georgians, the Bulldog great and Pro Basketball Hall of Famer has noticed the next level things in terms of fan accommodation that is happening west of his state.
RELATED: Nick Saban expecting another grandchild
On Thursday, the University of Alabama’s athletics department partnered with KultureCity to make Bryant-Denny Stadium sensory inclusive. The purpose of the organization is to help people with disabilities gain accessibility and feel included in all parts of life. According to its website, 650 million live with disabilities – including autism, dementia and post-traumatic stress disorder or PTSD.
Greg Byrne, Alabama’s athletic director, understands the importance of making sure each fan or supporter of Crimson Tide athletics has an enjoyable experience. Inside the sensory bags provided, individuals will receive a pair of headphones and two bracelets among other things to promote a pleasant experience.
Per a press release from rolltide.com, three areas will be designated inside Bryant-Denny Stadium as check-out locations for the sensory bags. Members of UA’s Austim Clinic will be over the operation and bags can be checked out upon leaving an ID at any of these locations:
- Lower level (ground floor): Near the First Aid Room behind Section K
- Upper level (concourse): Near Section SS-10
- Upper level (concourse): Near Section NN-11
When he saw the investment Alabama was making for its fans, Wilkins immediately hopped on social media to salute Byrne and the Tide. After watching his Bulldogs get beat by Alabama in the 2018 College Football Playoff title game (2017 season) and SEC Championship, Wilkins believes this is something that Georgia needs to get on.
I’m a hard core @UGAAthletics @GeorgiaFootball @UGABasketball but I got to say great job #alabama @Greg_Byrne !!!!!! For understanding that ALL fans need to be accepted and included! Let’s get on this #georgia! https://t.co/KnWwtswGx7
— Dominique Wilkins ? ? (@DWilkins21) October 18, 2019
While the LED lights feature should be entertaining on Saturday versus Tennessee, these sensory bags are about to put Alabama on a different level in terms of reaching more people.
*Get the BEST Alabama football insider information, message board access, and recruiting coverage today! SIGN UP HERE to unlock our subscriber only content!*
Stephen M. Smith is the managing editor and senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.
