Sad day for Gopher Fans - Paul Carter is transferring [Archive]

GopherLady

04-07-2010, 12:21 AM

I don't think it's any secret that Paul Carter is one of my favorite players. For those of you that have not had the pleasure of meeting him, he is one of the most kind, humble, and spiritual people you will ever meet. I honestly don't think he has a mean bone in his body, and he has represented the gophers with class and positivity. His stay was far too short here, but he just informed me that he is going to be transferring. He did want me to pass along the message he sent me, to thank you all for everything...he says it far better than I can, here it is:

Paul Carter April 7 at 1:01am

Hi Nadine! I wanted to tell you how much I thank you and the Gopher Nation as a whole! I have some news, I will be transferring back home to be closer to my sister and play my last year. I just wanted you to thank the fans for me because of their support, I felt at home here at the U. It has been a really tough process dealing with this choice but I must be with my family at this time. I'm telling you this because you are a great person and you have such a caring heart! I am going to be forever Grateful for the support I received from you and the fans! I have had an awesome experience!!! I have been so blessed to play here the people are amazing the fans are amazing and the city is amazing!!!!!! My family and I thank you so much for the support for my sister and for me since I've put on that #1 jersey!!!! Please stay in touch and may God bless you and keep his grace over you in all that you do its been a great journey!!!!!! My teammates are my brothers and Gopher nation will forever be my family!!!!! With mad love!!! PC#1

My heart and thoughts go out to his sister, and I hope for a very quick recovery for her. As for Paul, I wish you the best - I have to think if good things happen to good people, then he will be blessed with a great future.

Sid Hartman

04-07-2010, 12:33 AM

Best wishes to Paul Carter and his family, while I would for have loved for him to stay he is making the best decision possible to be with his sister at this time. We will miss you Paul, wherever you end up you will always have a fan here!

StewieGopherFan

04-07-2010, 12:35 AM

Wow, that is some sad news. I, for one, did not see this coming and I'm shocked to see this. I think I can say for most people that PC will be missed and I wish him and his sister good luck in the future!

dalostpinoy

04-07-2010, 12:43 AM

even thou its sad news, I certainly understand about PC choosing to be by his family's side during these times. It also shows what class Paul Carter really is to report this to the gopher fans 1st rather then hearing it elsewhere. Take care of your sister man and hope everything is well.

MNSnowman

04-07-2010, 01:13 AM

Sad news ... Carter seemed to be a class player and to get along with his teammates. I was banking on him to replace Damian Johnson next year.

All the best to Paul, his sister and their parents.

beowulftom

04-07-2010, 01:23 AM

It seems you've been a force of good in his life as well, GL.

If you happen to read this Paul, thank you.

It has been a pleasure rooting for you and watching you play. Your incredible talent on the court was balanced with a team spirit that was refreshing and inspiring to me as a fan. I was hoping for and predicting a great senior campaign for you as a Gopher. I now wish you well wherever you go next and through all the twists and turns of life.

When the team came together to honor your courageous sister, it seemed to spark something almost magical that created a feeling of cohesivenss that was apparent to those of us watching. I wish her health and wholeness.

People of quality elevate the things and people they come into contact with. You're one of those people.

EG#9

04-07-2010, 01:23 AM

Paul was one of my favorite players on the team, I was really looking forward to what he could to do as a senior. I wish all the best to Paul and his family.

Gopher Teeth

04-07-2010, 03:24 AM

I too want to wish Paul the best and thank him for all he has done. I have also really enjoyed watching him play and he has been nothing but class representing the Gophers. Paul we will be praying for you and your family.

BleedGopher

04-07-2010, 04:18 AM

That's tough news. I've been a big fan of Paul's since he got here and really looked forward to his senior leadership next year that we will now definitely miss.

I hope his sister has a full recovery and that Paul's future is a bright one, which I'm sure it will be.

Go Gophers!!

Zales04

04-07-2010, 04:59 AM

I'm really sad to hear that, but I understand why he is choosing to. Basketball is temporary, but family is forever. I would probably make the same choice, given that situation. I really enjoyed watching him play this year, I hope things turn out for the best.

Rouser

04-07-2010, 05:10 AM

Sad sad news. I tip my hat to Paul for doing what is best for his family and himself. That said, we'll really miss you Paul. Great player and great person. I remember before one game last year, the student section had their player profiles for that game and Carter and Bostick were the players. While both are fine young men I assume, the answers to the questions were so different that it was easy to see what kind of guy Paul was. Case in point. "Favorite Role Model" Bostick: Kobe Bryant Carter: Jesus Christ.

Gopher in Texas

04-07-2010, 05:24 AM

Paul Carter - Thank you for being a great role model and representative of Minnesota. I really enjoyed watching you play, especially your drives to the basket for mad dunks. You handled the occasional crazy charge calls much better than I did.

Thank you for what you are doing now - your sister and family need you. My prayers go out to the Carter family.

coolhandgopher

04-07-2010, 05:38 AM

To echo everyone else, we'll certainly miss Paul C. on the team. My ability to watch him these past couple seasons has been limited, but in my brief viewing, Carter emerged as a favorite-full of energy, a great teammate, etc. Of course, that pales with what is going on with his family and as much as I'd love to see what he could do as a senior, I fully respect the decision he is making. Best wishes to your sister's recovery and your future Paul, thanks for representing the "U" with such class during your time here.

jamiche

04-07-2010, 05:38 AM

I know it's not the most important thing on his mind, but I hope that there is some kind of NCAA exemption for family illness so that Paul can play right away instead of sitting out a year.

Moses87

04-07-2010, 06:01 AM

I also wish him the best and will miss getting the chance to see him fully develop in Maroon and Gold...I loved his talent and length.

What school is he heading for?

Holy Man

04-07-2010, 06:03 AM

Doing the right thing is not always the easiest road, but it does ensure peace of mind and heart. Paul Carter gets it. God and family are first, no matter what. His family is blessed to have him, as we were as extended basketball family the last couple of years. I wish you well, and prayers are with you and your family.

MRJ

04-07-2010, 06:22 AM

Bummer. Here's to wishing Paul Carter, his sister and his family all the best during what is a very difficult time. My heart goes out to Carter and his family as they navigate this adjustment in their lives. Paul, you will be missed and always will be a part of the Gopher family!!! :)

Take care and best wishes.

JohnnyGopher

04-07-2010, 06:35 AM

No doubt Paul will be able to play next year. Iowa's Tyler Smith did this a few years ago to be with a parent who had terminal cancer and was eligible immediately at Tenn., others have done so as well. At one point there was some talk that the family might move up here but i would guess that with the amount of times they have already moved in the past 5 years, that this was an easier choice although I'm sure not a happy one knowing that Paul is giving up something he really likes. Good luck to Paul and hopefully he can find a nice place overseas to make some $ and who knows maybe someday get a break in the NBA, even if brief, and be able to take care of his family.

ColNathanJessup

04-07-2010, 06:45 AM

I remember Paul's first several games of his career at the U. He was hurt with the ankle injury and in street clothes for the games. But while the others were warming up he was out at center court with a huge smile on his face. Then, as the band played, he'd be doing the rouser louder than anyone, pumping his fist to the MINNESOTA. I was pretty sure then that he was going to be one of my favorite players.

He was making big strides as a player this season too. Sad to see him go but wish him and his sister nothing but the best. Stay classy and smiling PC!

CollegeBBallFan

04-07-2010, 06:46 AM

Paul, you will be missed, but not forgotten. You are a special person. God Bless you.

gopherfaith

04-07-2010, 06:58 AM

This decision by Paul and his family shows far more strength and purpose as a role model than being a college basketball player ever could--Paul, I applaud your strength and love of your family. God bless you and your family and best of luck. Thanks for being part of the Gophers.

gophervet

04-07-2010, 07:17 AM

While I am sad to see PC go because I really enjoyed watching him play, I am very happy that his priorities lie in the right place. I hope his sister recoveries quickly, and I hope all the best to Paul in the future. Family is something that should trump basketball, and I applaud Paul for feeling that way.

97alumni

04-07-2010, 07:18 AM

Big loss for us. Prayers for his sister's recovery and I hope that whatever school is lucky enough to get him - realizes what a class act he is.

Good luck Paul!

tikited

04-07-2010, 07:25 AM

Bummer for sure. The Goph's will really miss his spirit and his play.

Gold Vision

04-07-2010, 07:32 AM

Paul was the spiritual leader of this team, he will be absolutely missed. We'll miss that lefty shooting stroke he was really starting to develop at the end of this year, but even more so his leadership.

RaT

04-07-2010, 07:36 AM

I was always confident when P. Carter was on the floor. While he might not have had a great offensive repertoire, he always brought something to the floor. Great defense, tremendous hustle, outstanding rebounding, huge baskets toward the end of the year. Great player to watch. I really liked him and wish we had more of his caliber.

Wish him well. He will most certainly be missed.

ChemEGopher

04-07-2010, 07:37 AM

His leadership was the thing I was must looking forward to for next year. It's clear he has the respect of all the guys on the team. For as good as Westbrook and Damian were their leadership was lacking this year. I was hoping PC would pull a Zoubek next year: Start the season coming off the bench, earn a starting spot in the line-up half way through the season, and spark a deep post season run.

Thanks PC for your time at MN. Good Luck moving forward!

Zeppelin Gopher

04-07-2010, 07:58 AM

Best of luck PC.

SelectionSunday

04-07-2010, 08:02 AM

Best of luck to Paul and his family. He will be missed. With all that went on this season off the court, it's comforting to know the Gopher program had a person of Paul's caliber to help steady the ship. The program that inherits Paul next season will be getting a winner in the truest sense of the word.

tjgopher

04-07-2010, 08:09 AM

KoolAid

04-07-2010, 08:11 AM

Paul - Thank you for blessing us with your presence the past two years.

Handsome Pete

04-07-2010, 08:13 AM

I personally think this is somewhat happy news. Here is a kid who is sacrificing a lot to be with his family and obviously has a fantastic head on his shoulders. He also says many wonderful things about Nadine and about Gopher fans, including us here. What a great family and a great, inspirational young man.

Frink

04-07-2010, 08:14 AM

All the best to Paul and his family. His decision and his note to GL show him to be a man of excellent character.

Anderson8284

04-07-2010, 08:18 AM

God bless Paul and his family

MinnMarchDTF

04-07-2010, 08:18 AM

I wish Paul and his family nothing but the best. Thank you for all you've done for this team. I'll never forget how this team came together after they shaved their heads in support of your sister. Just shows you the power of love.

MNbricks

04-07-2010, 08:27 AM

I too feel the same sentiment as everyone here..... PC handled himself well on the court and seems even better off the court. #1 we'll miss you and best wishes to your future, your sister and family. God bless.

howeda7

04-07-2010, 08:27 AM

Best of luck to Paul and his sister. I hope the NCAA has the heart and sense to let him play wherever he wishes next season.

Monty519

04-07-2010, 08:28 AM

I had a gut feeling maybe he would transfer considering how close he is to his family and the situation they were going through. Can't blame him one bit. I wish him and his fam all the best

9194Gophs

04-07-2010, 08:35 AM

Where is his family living? What D1 schools are nearby? Best luck to him, real class act. Praying for his sister and family.

Block M

04-07-2010, 08:40 AM

Your are exactly the type of student athlete one should strive to be. Hopes and thoughts with you and your sister. Good luck to you...

Minnie Soda

04-07-2010, 08:54 AM

God Bless You, Paul, and know that Gopher fans will be following your progress, and praying for a healthy recovery for your little sister.

For those who are wondering about where he'll transfer, an educated guess would be that he'd wind up at Arkansas-Little Rock. But wherever he goes, the program will be fortunate to have gained his services, both on and off the court.

98VQueens

04-07-2010, 09:18 AM

Best of luck to Paul and his sister and entire family. Paul is a great person and an even better big brother!

Does anyone know where his sister and family are living? What colleges might be in line for his services?

If I recall correctly, the old Strib & Press stories said Bria was getting treated in Chicago. I believe they live there also.

Minnie Soda

04-07-2010, 09:29 AM

If I recall correctly, the old Strib & Press stories said Bria was getting treated in Chicago. I believe they live there also.

Good call, then. Perhaps he'll wind up joining new coach Oliver Purnell at Depaul. Otherwise, the closest D-I schools would be Illinois-Chicago, Chicago State, or maybe Northern Illinois, which is about 60 miles West of Chicago.

row19gopher

04-07-2010, 09:40 AM

Good luck Paul. You are a special student athlete that doesn't walk thru the doors everyday, that is why we will miss you so much, and also why there are 3+ pages of posts. You have your priorities
properly lined up. Good luck to you and your sister. We will miss your fine character on our team.
Some program is in for a pleasant addition.

centerofmn

04-07-2010, 10:07 AM

This is sad news. He was a good player with a lot of potential.

Not to mention he seemed to have his head on straight.

sec105

04-07-2010, 10:16 AM

Paul Carter is a shinning example of what is good about student athletics. The Gophers will sorely miss his leadership.

Paul, you are a great athlete but even a better human being.
Our prayers are with you and your family.

jmag21

04-07-2010, 10:16 AM

That's certainly sad. Paul's been a great asset to this team, and has always seemed like a nice guy. My prayers will be with him and his family, and I hope he has a great senior season somewhere.

Clem's Gophers

04-07-2010, 10:20 AM

Marcus Tweet March 19th-

Wonder who won't be back next season from the underclassmen for the Gophers. Are Paul Carter and Justin Cobbs possible departures???

Good work Marcus - Good luck in you future endeavors Paul.

leftyslefty

04-07-2010, 10:32 AM

....spiritual leader, positive energy, improving player....this hurts the TEAM, because it's so hard to become a quality human being, and Paul is such a great example. I'm glad he's comfortable with the decision, I only wish he could be counted as a U of M alum, because I know he's going to a great example to others throughout his life.

Son of a Badger

04-07-2010, 10:35 AM

If there's ever a good reason to transfer this is it! Thoughts and prayers with PC and his family, and good luck to him in the future.

EaganGopher

04-07-2010, 10:36 AM

Paul was perhaps my family's favorite Gopher. While a very good basketball player, he seemed to be an even better person. He conducted himself with class and character, and was a fantastic representative of the University and the team. While he will surely be missed, we support his decision 100%.

All the best to you, Paul, in your future endeavors!!!!

Flatfoot

04-07-2010, 11:36 AM

Thank you for being a Gopher, Paul.

God bless and best wishes on the rest of your journey.

From the Barn

04-07-2010, 11:48 AM

I'm sure the NCAA would frown on it, but it would be great if he could get up here for what would have been his senior night. He deserves the recognition and gratitude.

Gopher Bandanna Guy

04-07-2010, 12:07 PM

Sad news ... Carter seemed to be a class player and to get along with his teammates. I was banking on him to replace Damian Johnson next year.

My thoughts exactly. I was anticipating PC being a senior captain and leader on the team, as well as a replacement for DJs minutes and defense.

Sad to see you go Paul, but family first. Best of luck at your new digs, and know that Gopher fans will be tracking your senior year. Hoping you have a terriffic and dominant senior season.

Dr.Gopher

04-07-2010, 02:02 PM

When a young man faces a family crisis like this it brings out his true character. Just like he did for his team, he is puting what is best for him aside to support his family. When your sister has cancer basketball seems like a silly game. This is a basketball player and human being we will all miss. Best of luck to Paul and his sister. My thoughts and prayers will be with you. I hope GL will stay in touch with Paul and give us updates on how he and his sister are doing.

GopherLady

04-07-2010, 02:04 PM

Just heard from Paul - and he does not know where he will be transferring to. Any program would be lucky to have him!

z-stein

04-07-2010, 02:10 PM

Just heard from Paul - and he does not know where he will be transferring to. Any program would be lucky to have him!

I'm not too familiar with transfer rules. Could Paul go to a D-1 school without having to sit out a year? Does he only have 1 year of eligibility left?

EverTheSkeptic

04-07-2010, 02:15 PM

I wish you the best, Paul. You, your sister and your family will be in my thoughts and prayers.

justthefacts

04-07-2010, 02:28 PM

I'm not too familiar with transfer rules. Could Paul go to a D-1 school without having to sit out a year? Does he only have 1 year of eligibility left?

YEs, the NCAA allowed Tyler Smith to transfer from Iowa to Tennessee because his father was sick without sitting a year. Of course, Smith's situation didn't work out for other reasons...

Section201

04-07-2010, 02:54 PM

This is so very sad on so many levels.

I hope for the best for Paul, his sister, and his family.

His time as a Gopher was too short but I will remember him for the class kid he is.

98VQueens

04-07-2010, 03:11 PM

Marcus Tweet March 19th-

Wonder who won't be back next season from the underclassmen for the Gophers. Are Paul Carter and Justin Cobbs possible departures???

I don't follow Cobbs on facebook, but I've looked at some of the stupid things he says on twitter... I'm thinking Marcus will be 2 of 2.

Section201

04-07-2010, 03:21 PM

I don't follow Cobbs on facebook, but I've looked at some of the stupid things he says on twitter... I'm thinking Marcus will be 2 of 2.

The thing to remember about thee media talking heads is they say a million things.

Odds are on a few occassions they will be right.

I personally hope Justin stays. I like him and think he can contribute in the future.

JMGIII

04-07-2010, 04:40 PM

Thank you PC! As others have stated; you will be missed, but you will not be forgotten.

What a classy move & personal sacrifice - God & Family above self. While I am personally heartbroken not to have him on our squad for his senior season, I respect his decision.

I wish Paul all the best, and may God bless him and his family.

JohnnyGopher

04-07-2010, 04:48 PM

Pauls father lives in chicago and that is where she is getting treatment and where Paul will look to play next year. Depaul, Illinois-Chicago, and Loyola are the three schools I heard most likely.

MNbricks

04-07-2010, 05:06 PM

Pauls father lives in chicago and that is where she is getting treatment and where Paul will look to play next year. Depaul, Illinois-Chicago, and Loyola are the three schools I heard most likely.

If he does transfer to any of those school, I will get to see him. Might even get to Thank him personally!

SlipperySlope

04-07-2010, 05:11 PM

Sad to hear but a very respectable move by Mr Carter. There were times where I saw a bit of Quincy Lewis in him, "instant offense."

My thoughts are with his family and I hope his sister wins her hard fought battle.

Shielder

04-07-2010, 05:30 PM

Thank You Mr Carter for your great attitude and spirit. We're going to miss you, Good Luck!!

Sota1

04-07-2010, 05:34 PM

At last years tip off I knew nothing about Paul Carter. After the tip off my wife christened PC her favorite player. Smile on his face and a hard worker. I have liked Paul from the beginning: Character, faith, hard work, team leader are just a few of the things that describe Paul. In a world of prima donna players think it is a gift for us to watch them play, it was very refreshing to see a young man who has had his priorities in place. Whether he had a good night or not, he always worked hard and kept his head up. I know that he taught some of the players a few lessons in life in how he carried himself. I am very disappointed to see him leave because he was a guy everyone rooted for. I wish Paul's sister the best and know that the prayers and actions of his brother will help her through this tough battle. Good Luck Paul! You are truly one of the good guys!

JohnnyGopher

04-07-2010, 06:19 PM

Not sure if it was brought up before but I think it's important to mention is that Paul will graduate from Minnesota this spring.

cncmin

04-07-2010, 06:24 PM

I'm shocked and saddened, but I understand. I had really looked forward to Paul being a tremendous player next year, he played such a big role this year. Paul good luck in your future, best wishes for your family, and may you forever stay maroon and gold at heart.

Friend Of Tubby

04-07-2010, 08:40 PM

Pauls father lives in chicago and that is where she is getting treatment and where Paul will look to play next year. Depaul, Illinois-Chicago, and Loyola are the three schools I heard most likely.

NCAA often grants immediate eligibility with extenuating circumstances like Carter has.

XMan

04-07-2010, 08:51 PM

Wow I wasn't expecting this. I wish him well. He always had a smile on his face on the court.

underground629

04-07-2010, 11:00 PM

The team and fans will definitely miss him. You can't help but love PC. I was looking forward to him being a leader on the team and filling in DJ's role on and off the court.

Bob_Loblaw

04-08-2010, 01:26 AM

For completely selfish reasons, I am disappointed to see that PC won't be back. He was definitely a positive member of Gopher nation. He played hard, never complained, and helped us win some games. There are obviously things in life that are much bigger than basketball and I can't help but like Paul Carter even more for the decision he is making. It is no doubt his mere presence will help his family through this incredibly difficult time. Good luck PC, my thoughts and prayers are with you and more specifically your sister.

BTW: I don't care where you end your career, you are a Gopher in my book!