Gary Payton II gave Oregon State fans a trip down memory lane on Senior Night when he decided to wear No. 20, the same number his father, former OSU and NBA star Gary Payton, wore during his collegiate career.
The homage came as a surprise Payton II's parents, who sat courtside during the Beavers' 69-49 win over Washington State.
Special – that's the only word for it.@GaryPayton_20 and GP2. #GoBeavs pic.twitter.com/ow1uctU1f6
— Oregon State Hoops (@OregonStateMBB) February 28, 2016
It was a touching moment for the elder Payton, who averaged 18.1 points per game, 7.8 assists per game and 2.7 steals per game when he played for Oregon State from 1986-1990. In 1996, he was inducted in the Oregon State sports Hall of Fame.
The younger Payton is having a quite the career of his own with the Beavers. In two seasons, Payton II is averaging 14.5 points per game, 7.6 rebounds per game, 4.1 assists per game and 2.8 steals per game. Against Washington State, the senior almost recorded a triple-double with 13 points, seven rebounds and eight assists in Oregon State's win.
That is one proud papa.
— Pac-12 Networks (@Pac12Networks) February 28, 2016
#20 has come down from the rafters for one night, and one night only at @OregonStateMBB.https://t.co/VTnVXjdA6c
