Major Blow As VCU Basketball Says Goodbye To Two Key Players

As the final buzzer of the season echoed, VCU graduate forward Kuany Kuany and graduate guard/forward Sean Bairstow bid farewell to their collegiate basketball careers.

Both players were transfers who joined VCU for their graduate year under new head coach Ryan Odom.

Kuany, who attended the University of California, Berkeley, earned his undergraduate degree in sociology there and chose VCU for its strong winning tradition and a style that suited his game.

“I believed VCU was a place that was going to win, and it has a history of success,” Kuany said. “I wanted to be a part of that.”

Having moved to various places throughout his life, Kuany is accustomed to adapting to new environments. He came to the United States alone at 15 to pursue his basketball dreams, which has made settling into new situations easier for him.

“I acclimate to new places much faster now,” Kuany shared. “I know what to expect and can connect with others based on my experiences.”

His transition to VCU had its challenges, including starting with a shoulder injury that set him back early on.

“I came in with a shoulder injury, which was a bit of a setback,” Kuany said.

Despite the challenges, he was embraced by his teammates, and coaches supported him through his recovery.

“Once I was back to health, everything went smoothly,” Kuany added.

His shoulder injury meant he couldn’t practice with the team over the summer of 2023, but Odom noted his impressive ability to overcome adversity.

“He started off a bit slow in terms of shooting but really took off after that,” Odom said. “I’m proud of how he persevered and contributed to the team’s success.”

Kuany takes pride in his performance and the teammate he has become, which contributed to his success on the court this season.

Bairstow, who transferred from Utah State where he played under Odom for two years, also faced hurdles. He suffered a foot injury early in the season, causing him to miss 12 games before making his debut on December 22, 2023.

“Once he returned, he made a significant impact on the team,” Odom said. “He helped us during a crucial stretch.”

Bairstow’s size, ball-handling, and unselfish play made him an essential part of the Rams’ roster.

“He knows how to step up and make crucial plays, while also contributing defensively and on the boards,” Odom noted.

After their contributions, Bairstow led the team in assists, while Kuany topped free throw percentages, making them vital players for the Rams.

Looking back on his time at VCU, Kuany reflects on the importance of hard work and efficiency in his game.

“I’ve always been dedicated, but now I’ve learned to simplify the game based on the guidance from Coach Odom and the staff,” he said.

As he graduates with a master’s degree from the Center for Sports Leadership, Kuany aims to pursue a professional basketball career.

“That has always been my dream,” Kuany said. “I’m fully committed to going for it.”

His VCU experience has been fulfilling, and he hopes to inspire younger family members or friends to consider playing for the Rams in the future.

“This is one of the best environments I’ve ever been in,” Kuany said. “The fan base is incredible, and it was a privilege to play here.”