Obscure Athlete of the Week: Eddie Shannon
Continuing with the college basketball theme until the NCAA tournament comes to an end – and the Gators improbable run in the NIT – this week’s Obscure Athlete of the Week is Eddie Shannon.
Eddie Shannon played point guard for the Florida Gators from 1995 to 1999 and is still the school’s all-time steals leader. He was one of the most recognizable players during Billy Donovan’s first few years in Gainesville and helped lead UF to the Sweet 16 during his senior season. Shannon has made a career for himself in Europe and currently starts for Strasbourg in France. If I could read French, I would gladly tell you more about him, but unfortunately The Bull Gator is not bilingual. However, he does seem to be doing pretty well, averaging double digits in points for the last few years.
All of this would seem pretty standard if not for the fact that Shannon only had use of one eye. When he was in the 7th grade, Shannon was hit in the face with a rock, causing severe damage to his right eye. Even after surgery, his vision continued to get worse. Despite all of this, he was able to secure a spot at the University of Florida. However, his eye deteriorated even further to the point that he lost all vision completely. After experiencing severe discomfort, parts of Shannon’s eye were removed and he was fitted with a prosthesis. With no vision in his right eye, Shannon was able to lead the Gators to the NCAA tournament and has since made a career out of basketball.
The Bull Gator proudly salutes Eddie Shannon and wishes him the best of luck.