Our Lady of the Lake University has become a Red River Athletic Conference rival for the St. Thomas Celts. Both UST and OLLU reinstated men's basketball in 2009-10 and have competed on the hardwood 11 times since that year. Through the first 11 contests the Saints hold a 6- 5 advantage over the Celts. However, one might think the Celts notched a small victory over their conference foe with the announcement that Bridge Lavey will be transferring home to Houston and the University of St. Thomas.
When asked about coming home and transferring to St. Thomas, Lavey responded; "I'm looking forward to working with a great coaching staff and help the Celts win a championship!"
Lavey, a 6-7 forward from Atascosita High School spent his freshman and sophomore years at OLLU before deciding he would like to finish his playing career closer to home. Lavey will be a junior and immediately eligible for the Celts in 2014-2015. During the 2013-14 basketball season Lavey averaged 6 points and 3 rebounds. He played in 29 games and averaged 11 minutes per game. As a freshman, Lavey started 11 times, averaged 5 points and participated in 30 games. He has shot 33% (59-166) from the 3-point line over his two years.
"We are excited to add Bridge to our program," said Coach Todd Smith, "he is ready to contribute immediately. Bridge plays extremely hard and got significant minutes for two very successful teams. He gives us some height and will add a dimension we need this upcoming season. Bridge can really shoot the three and will stretch defenses like many of our past forwards. We appreciate OLLU, Coach Wall and Director of Athletics Jack Hank for releasing Bridge".
Prior to college Lavey attended Atascocita High School. As a senior at AHS, Lavey averaged 14.5 ppg and was named 1st Team All-District. He will major in Business Marketing at St. Thomas.
Bridge's parents, Sue and Jerry Lavey are very involved with Houston area basketball as owners of The Gym. The Gym, located in Humble, hosts AAU basketball tournaments for boys and girls of all ages. Every young basketball player in the Houston area has competed in The Gym. For more information about The Gym go to www.ourgym.net .
