As the leaves began to change colors and the air began to chill last fall, five men, each one a leader in their own unique way, prepared for their last campaign together.

For NIU’s head coach Jim Molinari, these five men would bring about a season of ultimate joy and special pride in what they had accomplished during his two years of NIU coaching.

Donnell Thomas, Donald Whiteside, Antwon Harmon, Andrew Wells and Stacy Arrington are among the class of ‘91—a class Molinari will always hold a special place for in his heart.

“Leadership has to do with people who try to conform to the ideals of a program,” Molinari said. “Leaders reflect the principles you are trying to achieve for the group and make the sacrifices for the benefit of the group.”

That brings us back to the five aforementioned seniors. Molinari has come to know them well, spending time with his players off the court and even asking for input on and off the court.

Molinari reflected on each of the five seniors and how their contributions have brought the team to the top of the Mid-Continent Conference and to a Top-40 national ranking.

“Stacy Arrington has given NIU basketball a lot in his four years,” Molinari said. “The last two years have been disappointing for him, but he has maintained a great attitude through knee surgery and the change in playing style (at NIU).”

“Andrew Wells has been our most emotional player. He’s brought great enthusiasm to the team and has given us big lifts with his quick jumping ability.”

“Antwon Harmon has accepted his role and has sacrificed individual play with enthusiasm and with the team in mind.”

Then with a pause, followed by a smile, Molinari spoke of Donnell Thomas and Donald Whiteside.

“Donald has a flair on and off the court,” said Molinari. “People just like him. But his love for the game and his desire for the team to succeed is what makes him really fun to be around.”

“And Donnell is one of the best, if not the best competitor I’ve ever been around. He takes great pride in what he does and his work ethic is good. His personality is infectious and he seems to have a presence about him. He will leave as one of NIU’s most remembered players.”

All of these seniors have made the ’91 season a special one.

“This is a special group and I care for them,” Molinari said. “I just want the best for them and when the season is over, I want to get them in the best position possible for success. I owe them that and I want to do that for them. These five will represent NIU well. They’ve taken pride in what they do.”