Wake Forest Athletics
Deacon Sports Xtra: Progress Through the Process
1/25/2023 8:49:00 AM | Men's Basketball
Davion Bradford’s journey over the course of a year has involved a mix of body transformation, self-awareness, and continued work ethic.
During the Wake Forest men's basketball rebuild this past offseason, Davion Bradford's transfer ultimately became the last piece of the puzzle. The 7-foot tall center from St. Louis, who began his college career at Kansas State, used the move to completely reset both on and off the court. Usage of the Wake Forest staff and facilities heavily aided in getting him in the best condition of his playing career.
"I have a lot of people on the staff and a lot of people on the team who have helped me," Bradford said. "It was hard for me when I first came here, being consistent with it. That was the main solution to my problem. It was definitely a change in my diet and a change in my schedule. I had to consider times in which I was working out and what I was consuming in my body.
"I honestly love desserts, but had to cut that out. I also like wings, but I've had to cut out a lot of fried food and late-night eating. That was a big problem for me during the start."
Bradford also learned to properly rest his body and adjust to a more routine sleep schedule, getting to bed most nights by 10:30 p.m.
"I was the type of person to stay up all night and then just act like I can go into the gym," Bradford said with a chuckle. "I knew what I was supposed to do, but I had to get into the habit. I wanted to get serious with my diet and get serious about this season. I wanted to be more locked in than I was last year. I want to do everything right for this season. I want it to be a great season."
By the time the season had started, Bradford had shed more than 40 pounds, completely transforming his body with his dedication under the direction of Wake Forest director of sport performance Mike Starke. Before arriving at Wake Forest, Bradford went through a COVID-19 infection, pneumonia and a hip contusion all during his sophomore season.
"I went through a lot last season," he said. "There were many games in which I wasn't at my best or as consistent. I was out very often and couldn't practice. I just couldn't find my niche.
"I haven't played at this weight since my freshman year, and I haven't been fully healthy since my freshman year. I'm still getting used to playing at this weight. I know I can do it, because I've done it once before."
Bradford contributed a huge 11 points and four rebounds in an early-season 10-point victory at Joel Coliseum over SEC foe Georgia. The Bulldogs have caught fire of late with one of the top records in the conference.
"Everything has been going fantastic and just the way I wanted it," Bradford noted. "We as a team have been getting in shape and getting used to each other. We've built great chemistry both on and off the court. It's fun learning how to play with a whole new team."
As part of a three-player mix in the middle, Bradford splits time at the five spot with sophomore Matthew Marsh and freshman Zach Keller. At times, when the Deacs go small, Andrew Carr will rotate in there as well. Banging against the massive Marsh can only help Bradford make big strides moving forward.
"It's been different, for sure," he said. "It's not like I haven't competed against someone like Matthew before. I've practiced against bigger and stronger bigs before, so it was something I was used to. It comes down to just having to play aggressively. You always have to be on the top of your game when you're facing someone bigger than you."
In terms of team camaraderie and chemistry, few assisted more than the summer trip to Europe and the grand opening of the new Chris Paul Family Men's Basketball Clubhouse.
"Europe was great for me in getting used to my teammates, seeing what they like and don't like," Bradford said. "I'm the type of person who wants to learn about everybody and find out what I can do for them both on and off the court. I want to be a friend and a teammate at the same time. I know they have my back and they know I have their back. Europe definitely helped us."
In addition to state-of-the-art locker room and sleep pods, the new clubhouse now also features ping pong and pool tables. The Deacs often have team dinners there and hang out both before and after practice.
"It's absolutely amazing," Bradford said. "It's been useful for all of us and is a big blessing. I have to give a shoutout to Chris Paul for giving us the opportunity to have that space. I just need basketball, my teammates and the coaches. We love it and are not taking it for granted. We hang out there before and after practice."
The staff, including Wake Forest head coach Steve Forbes, has been consistent in his approach with Bradford from the recruiting process, through the offseason workouts and during the season.
"Coach Forbes is a genuine person who cares about us and cares about this team a lot," Bradford said. "He's going to figure out every piece he needs for this team, and he's going to get the best out of each player. He's always honest with us, whether we're doing something good or bad. Being real with us is one of the biggest strengths for Coach Forbes. It's motivational. You know he's going to help you out in every way possible.
"Since I've been here, the coaches have helped me build my confidence a lot. I'm healthy and the coaches have helped me a lot with that journey."
Lauded by Forbes for his defensive acumen, Bradford is still looking to find his niche as the Demon Deacons navigate conference play.
"There are days it's not going for you on offense, but you can still do the little things that can help your team," Bradford maintains. "In high school, I was really good at rebounding. Since I've been here, I've tried to steady my focus on the little things. I usually ask myself, "what can I do better?" If I'm not hot from the field, I'm going to set screens for my teammates and rebound. I want to help my team in any way possible.
"I'm excited to be playing with this team. I love this sport. I'm looking forward to seeing what we can accomplish this season. We have a young team and I love being around them. Everybody is locked in. We go hard every day in practice. We want to shine and show the world what we're about."
