CARBONDALE (WSIL) -- In only one season at SIU, Barret Benson has made quite an impression with Saluki fans.
In fact, at the Salukis last home game of the season, 5-year-old Cooper Calcaterra let everyone know who his favorite player is.
"It really is a privilege to have people but kids in general look up to you and be able to be a role model for people and just inspire that same love for the game that you had, that I had specifically from watching my older brother and other people growing up and to be able to be that role model for people is amazing," SIU grad transfer Barret Benson said.
SIU did some research, tracked down the Calcaterra family and created an opportunity for Cooper to meet number 40.
"When I came out for warm-ups and I look over and see someone with an afro wig and a headband on and I couldn't help but smile and laugh and it's a special moment and feel a connection and the family is great and everything, coming out and it's just a, it's bigger than basketball, just being a decent human being and sharing that love of the game and just joy in general with other people."
I even let Cooper be my honorary reporter to get the scoop on this story.
"How do you make all the baskets?" Calcaterra asked.
"Ooh, how do I make all the baskets? A lot of practice and I have to focus and every time I look at the basket I have to think Cooper is cheering for me so if Cooper is cheering for me, there is no way I'm missing this next shot right? So I'm always ready for the next one especially when I have big fans like you especially with the perfect hair, you know? So that's probably how I make all the baskets," Benson said.
Benson excels in the classroom, has stood out on the basketball court, but as a person he's as good as gets.
For him to take time out of his busy schedule to spend quality time with Cooper, that says a lot about Benson's charachter.
"I've said it a lot of times throughout the year. We are lucky to have Barret in the program for a lot more reasons besides basketball, for the type of person he is, for the type of leader he is, just what he's meant to the locker room and to this program. It is always something I will remember and his effect on the community, he's representing this school in the right way, every single day since he's been here," SIU Basketball Coach Bryan Mullins said.
"I've got a question for you. How do you get your hair to look better than mine when it's a wig?" Barret asked Cooper.
"I buyed it," Cooper said.
"There you have it. You bought it. I should've bought my hair. That looks great, it looks great. Thanks for coming out Cooper. Thanks for the wonderful questions," Benson said.
