Statistically speaking, it is readily apparent that OU’s Kur Kuath is a powerhouse on the court. He led the University of Oklahoma Men’s Basketball team in blocks last season, with his 5.8 blocks per 40 minutes ranking him second among Division I players. He came to OU following a successful junior college career, where he netted both regional and District I titles. As a senior in the 2020-21 season, the 6’10” Kuath (pronounced “Kweth”) has no intentions of slowing down and has his sights set on the NBA.
But for anyone who meets this standout forward, it is also readily apparent that the true story lies in the positive attitude that has guided him throughout his life. Born in Khartoum, Sudan, Kur’s family fled their homeland in the midst of uprisings, violence and a civil war. After briefly living in Egypt, the family was ultimately granted refugee status in the United States and settled in Utah when Kur was only 3. He grew up with a deep appreciation for all his parents had to overcome to provide safety and security for their family. He credits their constant commitment to education and building a better life with giving him the motivation to chase both his athletics and academic dreams.
“Being where I am today means everything to me,” Kur says. “Where I came from, not everyone gets the opportunities that I have here. My parents have had to sacrifice their whole lives to make sure me and my siblings get an education and have the best possible future. My family motivates me every day to do better and get better, both on and off the court.”
Kur came to OU in 2018 and will graduate with a bachelor of Arts degree in sociology this coming May, a milestone that he calls his proudest accomplishment off the court.
“I will be the first in my family to earn a college degree. In Sudan, it is not always easy to get an education. It is important to me to show my younger siblings that it really is possible to get a scholarship and play the game you love. I am so truly blessed by the opportunity to be here, and I don’t ever take it for granted.”
Committing to play for OU represented a huge step in Kur’s athletics dreams.
“Most junior college players don’t make it to the next level without a lot of work,” he reflects. “I take pride in being able to call myself a Division I athlete. Being here at OU is one of my proudest moments.”
After graduation, Kuath aims to continue his career on the court.
“I would love to play professional basketball, and my biggest goal would be to make it to the NBA. I know there are also other options overseas. Depending on how this season goes, it will determine what path I end up on.”
Thinking about life after basketball, Kur is excited about using his degree to help other athletes.
“It allows me to pursue my interest in therapy,” he explains. “My dream is to help fellow athletes. Being an athlete is very stressful, especially if you are far from home and not able to see your family.”
No matter where the next chapter of his life takes him, Kur will treasure his time in Norman.
“I love the culture in Norman, and Oklahoma is a great place to be. I’ve been in a position where I’ve had nothing before, so I don’t ever take the little things for granted. I am really grateful for every opportunity I have.”
Person Info: Follow Kur Kuath and the OU Men’s Basketball team at SoonerSports.com/sports/mens-basketball