David L. Archer President | Christian Brothers University website

Early in the 2023-24 basketball season at Christian Brothers University (CBU), shooting guard Nmesomachi "Nmeso" Nnebedum faced a significant setback when he ruptured the quadriceps tendon in his right knee. The injury, which required surgery and months of rehabilitation, was a major blow during what was supposed to be his senior year.

Nmeso, who transferred to CBU from South Suburban College after helping them win the National Junior College Athletic Association Division II National Championship in 2022, had high hopes for his performance. In his first year at CBU, he averaged 4.2 points per game and anticipated improvement in the following season.

The injury left him physically challenged and homesick in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Financial constraints prevented him from visiting home. "I didn’t have anybody to run to," Nmeso said.

While recuperating in his dorm room, Nmeso discovered a post on Instagram about Praise & Worship services held by CBU Campus Ministry. Identifying as a Christian, he decided to attend despite his physical limitations. "My body might have been hurting, but my spirit was healed," he noted after attending.

Joel Kelley, Director of Campus Ministry at CBU, observed Nmeso's regular attendance and engagement with the community. "Nmeso shared with me that God was using his injury as an invitation to dive deeper into his faith," Kelley said.

Nmeso's involvement with Campus Ministry allowed him to explore his faith further and develop leadership skills. "I locked in with God on my faith, and He created so many opportunities," he reflected.

Now recovered and back on the court, Nmeso is set to graduate this spring with a degree in Business Administration. His coach, John Reilly, praised him for his dedication both on and off the court: "He’s dependable. You can count on him."

As one of five seniors named Lasallian Fellows for embodying values such as scholarship and service, Nmeso leaves a lasting legacy at CBU.