Setting a New Standard
Alex Glover
At SMU, I strived to fully embrace the parallel experience of being a student-athlete.
I’d been in the wild west recruiting ring since eighth grade, but SMU stood out for its high standard of academic excellence.
SMU offered me the rare opportunity to double major in data science and operational research and engineering management while playing volleyball.
Balancing a double major with my athletic commitments and personal brand development was undoubtedly challenging, but I had an incredible support system that helped me navigate it all.
And my college experience set me up for a stronger future.
Today, I’m blessed to be carving a space for myself in the sports media, NIL and content creation world.
SMU sharpened my skills, prepared me for life after college and taught me the true meaning of embracing endless possibilities.
Competitive Edge
Growing up in a competitive household, I was always surrounded by the influence of sports.
My dad always shut down any argument debating the best athlete in the family, and rightfully so.
He played in the NFL for ten years.
But with my brothers, who played football in college — it’s game on.
As a student-athlete at SMU, I sharpened my competitive spirit in my volleyball career and academic pursuits.
I was constantly pushing myself to exceed limits and reach new heights, just like my family members did.
My parents have been my biggest supporters throughout my journey.
They were always there for me, whether it was driving three and a half hours to attend my games or encouraging me to take that next leap.
Even after college, they’re always around, ready to cheer me on.
Balancing a double major with my athletic commitments and personal brand development was undoubtedly challenging, but I had an incredible support system that helped me navigate it all. And my college experience set me up for a stronger future.
Reaching a higher standard
I always admired SMU’s commitment to treating student-athletes like any other student in college.
The faculty holds student-athletes to the same standard, never letting us slip under the radar.
I learned how to take advantage of every resource and ask for help.
I also learned not to put myself in a box.
The opportunities available to student-athletes are endless, and I took advantage of every chance to explore different paths.
Despite majoring in engineering and data science, I discovered my true passion in sports media.
If I had limited myself to just one field, I may not have landed my dream role as a broadcaster.
Striving for Excellence
Growing up, I didn’t see many black women in the volleyball media space, so playing a small role in increasing that representation means everything to me.
I hope my career shows young Black women and all young girls that success in the sports media space is possible.
When one person succeeds, we all succeed and grow along with them.
That’s why I use my brand and following to increase exposure and particularly drive more eyeballs to the sport of volleyball.
It’s a privilege I don’t take lightly and I always try to empower the sport and its athletes.
I was fortunate to find a mentor in LaChina Robinson, who is a prominent figure in women’s basketball media.
She has shown me the ropes and guided me on my journey post-grad.
I am grateful for her mentorship; she set an example that inspires me to work even harder.
As for my platform, I hope to share stories that encourage and educate my audience about volleyball, while empowering the athletes by amplifying their experiences.
Even as I played at SMU, I knew that one day, the jersey would come off, and I wouldn’t be known as just a volleyball player anymore.
My advice to young athletes is to make the most of their resources while they are playing.
Athletes often have a platform and a pedestal, and it’s essential to use that to their advantage.
SMU provided me with the foundation I needed to fulfill my dreams.
Now, I can amplify the stories of other athletes pursuing their dreams.
Alex Glover, Jabari Hearn and Kenneth Imo are the panelists for the 2025 Black Excellence Brunch at the Flanagan Family Training Table in the Garry Weber End Zone Complex on Saturday, February 22 at noon (REGISTER).
The panelists will be honored at the Men’s Basketball game versus Clemson that tips at 3 p.m. at Moody Coliseum (TICKETS)