Over the weekend, DJ Augustin ‘06, Orlando Magic point guard, visited New Orleans not just to face off against the New Orleans Pelicans but to come back home where he was honored by Brother Martin with a jersey retirement ceremony. Augustin is the first Crusader alumnus in Brother Martin’s history to officially have his jersey retired. 

During halftime, President Greg Rando ’77, Principal Ryan Gallagher ’00, Athletic Director Mark Wisniewski ’81, former Athletic Director Barry Hebert ’74, Advancement and Alumni Director Kenny Spellman ’84, spectators, as well as the Conlin Crazies, took a moment to watch the unveiling of the retired No. 14 jersey that now hangs in the Robert M. Conlin Gymnasium. Augustin was elated as he celebrated with his family, friends, former coaches and teammates, and his Orlando Magic teammates and personnel, who surprised DJ with their attendance at the event.

"Tonight was just a special, amazing time. I had everybody that I love and all the support that I've had over the years here to support me and be here for me in this special moment. My wife, my kids, my mom, my dad, my sisters, everybody. It was just a special night. I'm super honored and excited that my jersey will be in that gym forever, " expressed Augustin. 

Augustin scored 2,249 points during his high school career and led the Crusaders to three consecutive state finals and two state championships. In 2004 and 2005, he was named to the All-District and All-State teams, as well as being named Times-Picayune New Orleans Player of the Year. In 2006, he was a McDonald’s All-American as well as a Parade Magazine High School All-American. 

With these successes and accolades, DJ easily transitioned from Brother Martin to a stellar collegiate career at the University of Texas and then onto the NBA, where he was the 9th overall pick in 2008 for the Charlotte Bobcats (now Hornets). Since 2008, he has played for multiple NBA teams and now resides on the Orlando Magic roster. 

“This was a special night for Brother Martin High School. DJ did so much for our school as a student, and he continues to do so as an alum. He has given back since the day he first stepped foot on campus, and we are honored as an institution to be able to recognize him and thank him for our special relationship. He’s a great basketball player, but that is not really what tonight is about. DJ is a  wonderful model for our student body and the entire school community of what servant leadership looks like in the real world,” said Principal Ryan Gallagher '00. 

In addition, members of the 1970, 1971, 1974, 2004, 2005 and 2010 State Championship basketball teams were honored prior to tip-off. Former coaching staff members Andy Russo, John Lavie, Scott Thompson, and Bill Gallagher ’71 joined their former players at center-court for their recognition.

The night was capped off with a Crusader victory over the Carencro Golden Bears by a score of 79-47.

Congratulations to all basketball lettermen, players, and DJ!