Brian Gregory: Chris Wright changed perception of Dayton Flyers basketball

Gregory, now in his third season at South Florida, congratulated Wright on his induction. He coached Wright from 2008-11.

“We are so proud of you,” Gregory wrote. “Your commitment to the Flyer program completely changed the national and local perception of the program. Nationally, you led the Flyers to their first NCAA tournament win in 20 years and a NIT championship.”

Gregory also credited Wright with the program being able to sign the area’s top local players, naming Josh Benson, Matt Kavanaugh and Juwan Staten.

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“Simply put, you saying yes to UD, your highlight dunks and engaging personality brought the program to another level,” Gregory wrote. “However, what is even more impressive is the humble attitude you demonstrated while achieving all this success. You were and still remain the first person to lend a hand to anyone and everyone who needed to be lifted up. When you lose your ego in service to others, you find the greatness in yourself. Chris Wright lives this every day!”