Hoosier hoopster speaks on politics

After celebrating President George W. Bush's election victory, more than 50 College Republicans gathered to hear former IU basketball star Kent Benson speak.\nStudents filed into the Indiana Memorial Union State Room Wednesday to hear the words of a legend. Benson was a three-time All-American at IU, a member of the IU Hall of Fame and spent 10 years in the NBA. \nBenson first recognized several key supporters of the Republicans in attendance, including Rep. John Hostettler (R-8) and Rep. Jeff Canada. Benson began his speech saying there has been a blessing in America, "because you have elected a president," he said, "who will take this country back up to the place it needs to be."\nBenson spoke of four Ds -- desire, determination, dedication and discipline.\n"The way our country is going should be a passion for you," Benson said. "Be determined to keep focused and identify your obstacles, because you are the foundation and future of this country."\nBenson encouraged students to be the best they could and cited several inspirational writings, including Charles Swindoll's "Always" and an anonymous poem, "Anyway."\n"Do whatever it takes to overcome obstacles and grab your dream and goal," Benson said, reminding students the two things they can control in their lives are their attitude and actions. \nOf the election, Benson said, "Now there are people with morals and standards, and the Republicans have come together in unity and discipline to make something great happen in this country."\nDuring a brief question and answer session, Benson spoke of his years playing for former basketball coach Bob Knight.\n"Coach Knight taught me to play to my potential not only in the basketball game but in life," Benson said, adding that Knight taught him character and how to fulfill his potential.\n"Reputation is what others think of you; character is who you really are," Benson concluded.\nSophomore Sarah Milligan, external vice-president, said, "We're very energized and we've had a good year, all things considered, and we are looking forward to the next eight years."\nSophomore Josh Claybourn, organization secretary, said this has been the best year for the Republicans since he joined the group.\n"I think there's a sense of optimism this year with the Republican party," he said. "There's been a tremendous increase in participation and in the things we've been able to bring in."\n"(Benson) has done so much for the Republican cause, and for the right to life issue," Claybourn said. "And he's arguably the best IU player ever to come out of the program"