On Friday, The Messenger spoke with a number of former Troy Trojans basketball stars would offered their support to Troy Basketball as it faces off against Kentucky in the NCAA Tournament on Friday night. 

Welsey Person Jr., now playing professionally overseas, is Troy’s all-time leading scorer and was a member of the Trojans squad that made the NCAA Tournament appearance in 2017.

“Good luck today guys,” Person said. “All the hard work this season has led to where you are right now. Keep that same fight and same energy, make sure you’re the hardest playing team on that floor tonight.

“Coming from Troy, Ala., these opportunities to play on the biggest stage haven’t come around often, so enjoy every minute of it because you deserve it. All of Trojan Nation is rooting for you and we’re so proud to be represented by a great group of guys. Good luck and let’s go get us one today!”

Joshua Boykin, now the head coach at New Brockton High School, was also a member of that 2017 team.

“Just wanna say good luck to the Trojans tonight as they take on Kentucky,” Boykin said. “Like Coach Cross said, ‘It’s either Hunt or be hunted,’ and tonight, we want to see the Trojans go out and hunt. Let’s get this W!”

Emil Jones, now a high school basketball coach, hit the game-winning shot in the first ever game at Trojan Arena. 

“This is one of the proudest moments I’ve had as an alumni of Troy basketball,” Emil Jones said. “This team is playing its best basketball at the best time. Don’t be surprised if Troy shocks the rest of the world. “

Tim Fayson was a member of the Troy team coached by Don Maestri that set the single game NCAA scoring record. Fayson now coaches his high school alma mater at Charles Henderson. While CHHS is currently on spring break, Fayson still wished his college alma mater luck.

“It’s just great to see Troy Basketball in great hands again,” Fayson said. “Coach Cross has done a phenomenal job this season and we’ll be cheering for the Trojans tonight from St. Maarten.” 

Nick Stampley was the first player that current head coach Scott Cross signed when he arrived at Troy. He sent in his well wishes from Germany, where he plays professional basketball.

“I want to congratulate you guys on a great season and good luck tonight,” Stampley said. “I know you guys are going to play with supreme confidence, you guys embody everything that Coach Cross talks about, and remember championships are won today!” 

Christyon Eugene was a member of the Trojans for three years, earning All-Sun Belt honors last season. He now plays professionally in Romania. Eugene had a simple but emphatic message for the Trojans.

“Some people want it to happen, others wish it would happen, but Troy makes it happen,” Eugene emphasized.

Troy plays Kentucky at 6 p.m. in the first round of the NCAA Tournament Friday night at 6 p.m. on CBS.