Chris Beard reveals the importance of TJ Ford to the Longhorns program

Part of Chris Beard’s initiative at Texas is to reinvigorate the program’s connection to its past stars. He wants team to honor great Longhorns past and present. Involve the alumni with the team at every possible chance.

Well, one former player who Beard has developed a strong relationship with is former UT guard TJ Ford. At a recent press conference, Beard raved about the support Ford has shown so far since he took over the job, and explained just how important he has become to the program. Here were his comments:

“About TJ — this isn’t just a former player that drops by. This is a guy that’s in the inner circle of what we do. Think I’ve said it before. This year, showing up to the press conference, even the night before the press conference, TJ had driven down to Houston to be there to support us. It meant the world to me. First place I came when we got to Austin is — we went to the tower to see president’s hearts on those guys. TJ was there. And I still get somewhat emotional thinking about that. He didn’t have to do that. So that meant the world to me.”

What a moment between Chris Beard and the former Texas hoops legend. Beard then shared how important Ford is to him during these early years on the job.

“From there, I’m just trying to do everything I can to make him proud. Him and all the other former players. But TJ has been great. One of the all-time greats that ever played the game — think the game, develop players. You know, I consider him a friend. I consider him somebody I can lean on. I trust him. He’s been a great part of our program.”

TJ Ford is once again a vital part of the Texas Basketball program. He only spent two years in Austin as a player, but his 2003 season was unforgettable. He averaged north of 15 points and seven assists per game en route to consensus Player of the Year honors, then was picked eighth in the NBA Draft.