By: Alton Byrd, Columbia Men's Basketball Legend

Why did you choose to attend an Ivy League institution?
 
Deep in the back of my mind, I was unsure as to how long my basketball career was going to be and I wanted to prepare for a life after basketball. My family always asked, “what will happen when you cannot play basketball anymore?” Thus my opportunity to go to an Ivy League school was pre-eminent in my mind.
 
What comes to mind when you think about the Ivy League?
 
Commitment to education and multicultural experiences. Global impact. Social justice. An educational platform that provides the world with unique solutions providers.
 
What athletic accomplishment has the most significance to you?
 
Having a long career as a player, coach and general manager in Europe. Seeing the many cities around the globe and playing basketball against some of the greatest players in Europe. 
 
What is your most memorable experience from your time as an Ivy League student-athlete?
 
Beating nationally ranked Rutgers my sophomore year and beating Penn my senior year—before they went on to the NCAA Final Four against Michigan State and Magic Johnson.
 
What would you share with a prospect deciding on attending either an Ivy or non-Ivy League school?
 
I would share that if you are preparing for a life full of adventure, challenging intellectual opportunities and creative nurturing, there is no place better than Columbia or an Ivy League institution.
 
What is it like when you meet another former Ivy League student-athlete? 
 
Meeting another former Ivy League student-athlete opens the door to interesting intellectual conversations. I have worked with several former Ivy League student-athletes and there is usually a focused attempt at humorously sharing not only sports stories but real life and travel experiences.
 
What does it mean to you to be a Legend of Ivy League Basketball?
 
It is an honor I certainly never expected as an undergraduate student-athlete. It means that I competed, I worked at my craft and I had a chance to play with great teammates who compelled me to be at my best and represent Columbia well.
 
Are you still involved with your alma mater, and if so how?
 
I am still involved with Columbia. I do the best I can to help the program to build resources and capacity for the student-athletes. I am a fan of Jim Engles and Peter Pilling and the work they are doing to build a championship-winning program both on and off the court.

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Alton Byrd was a Columbia men's basketball student-athlete from 1976-79. He is a member of the 2018 Class of Legends of Ivy League Basketball that will be formally honored during the 2018 Ivy League Men's and Women's Basketball Tournaments on Saturday, March 10, at The Palestra in Philadelphia. Purchase tickets at IvyMadness.com. 

ABOUT AUTHENTIC IVY:
Authentic Ivy is Ivy League student-athletes, coaches and alumni, in their own words. Stay tuned to IvyLeague.com for more Authentic Ivy features throughout the 2017-18 year.