DAVIS, Calif. - Known throughout the region for its steadfast support of local elementary and junior high schools, UC Davis men's basketball participated in its inaugural school assembly of the 2014-15 academic year when senior Josh Ritchart, junior J.T. Adenrele and sophomore Brynton Lemar recently visited Sierra Enterprise Elementary School.

The trio took time out of their packed schedule - each student-athlete is currently taking summer classes in addition to participating in off-season weights, conditioning and individual on-court workouts - to speak to the school's fourth, fifth and sixth graders.

"Our students loved the assembly," said Patricia Hecht, Sierra Enterprise's principal. "The more they hear about college, speak to college students and become excited about college, the greater chance we have of them actually attending college. 

"The players are articulate, well-spoken, patient and engaging. Every player that spoke at Sierra Enterprise is a true representative of UC Davis and its student-athletes. I cannot thank them enough!" 

Ritchart, Adenrele and Lemar each began the assembly by sharing their experiences as a student-athlete, described challenges faced in elementary, junior high, high school, college and offered words of advice. 

"Once the players addressed the crowd, it was clear that everyone loves playing basketball. However, they all emphasized how important it is to read, working hard and never quit in order to become successful in school and life," added Hecht.

"It felt great to hear how inspired the kids were after we shared our experiences growing up, and described what college is like," said Adenrele.

"As soon as we arrived, we could see how engaged the students were. At that age, students love playing and talking about sports. To see three tall players walk around campus, then participate in an assembly created specifically for them, was exciting," Lemar said.

"The afternoon was exciting for us as well," he added.

Once personal stories were shared with teachers and students in attendance, each player then took turns reading excerpts from some of their favorite books.

Ritchart chose to center his presentation on the importance of commitment, and shared a few passages from a book penned by former Notre Dame football coach Lou Holtz. Adenrele highlighted the importance of focus and Lemar talked about courage; the players referred to principles highlighted in books written by UCLA legend John Wooden and current Duke men's basketball coach Mike Krzyzewski.

Each reading tied into the school's Positive Behavior Intervention and Support program that is available at Sierra Enterprise - designed with an emphasis on character building activities and teaching strategies in both academics and behavior.

By addressing the audience through respective readings, each UC Davis student-athlete personified their character trait of choice and provided specific examples of how that trait helped them succeed in the classroom, on the court and in their personal life.

"I could tell just by their eyes and body language that the students really paid attention to what we read and could relate to our experiences," said Adenrele. "We were really honest with everyone, shared the obstacles we faced and talked about how hard we worked to get to where we are today."

"We immediately could tell that all eyes, and attention, were on us from the moment we walked into the room. All three of us knew how important it was to let them know about the choices we made when we were growing up and how they could become just as successful," said Ritchart. 

By popular demand, each player showcased their basketball skills and conducted various basketball drills, with the help of a few audience members. 

"It was very rewarding to participate in this assembly and see how excited they were to hear what we had to say. I could tell that the kids enjoyed the basketball drills because everyone wanted a high five from one of us," Ritchart added.

Said Hecht, "I cannot say enough about the partnership we have built with the players and the team. This program allows the students to see how enjoyable it is to play basketball or participate in other extra-curricular activities, and understand how important academics and learning is key to a successful life. 

"Hearing that from the men's basketball players just validates this to my students."