Emerson Junior Guard Finds Unorthodox Path to College Basketball

Allen plays home games near TD Garden, but his Division III program is a far cry from the big leagues.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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Though he plays his home games in the shadow of TD Garden, one mile from the Celtics' arena, Emerson junior guard Allen is forging his own basketball journey on an 'unorthodox path.' After playing for his father at Gulliver Prep in Florida, he started his college career as a preferred walk-on at Rhode Island before transferring to Emerson before his sophomore season.

Why it matters

Allen's story highlights the diverse paths talented basketball players can take, with many opting for smaller Division III programs over the bright lights of Division I. His experience also showcases the passion and dedication required to pursue the sport at any level, even in the shadow of a major professional franchise.

The details

Allen, a junior guard at Emerson College in downtown Boston, plays his home games just one mile from the TD Garden, home of the NBA's Celtics. However, his Division III program is a far cry from the big leagues, with an average attendance of just 293 for their 71-67 win against Western Connecticut. After playing for his father at Gulliver Prep in Florida, Allen began his college career as a preferred walk-on at Rhode Island before transferring to Emerson prior to his sophomore season.

  • Allen started his college career as a preferred walk-on at Rhode Island.
  • Allen transferred to Emerson College before the start of his sophomore season.

The players

Allen

A junior guard at Emerson College in Boston, Massachusetts.

Gulliver Prep

A high school in Pinecrest, Florida where Allen played for his father.

Rhode Island

The university where Allen began his college basketball career as a preferred walk-on.

Emerson College

The Division III college in downtown Boston where Allen currently plays, just one mile from the TD Garden.

Western Connecticut

The opponent Emerson defeated 71-67 in a game with an attendance of 293.

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The takeaway

Allen's story showcases the diverse paths talented basketball players can take, with many opting for smaller Division III programs over the bright lights of Division I. His experience highlights the passion and dedication required to pursue the sport at any level, even in the shadow of a major professional franchise like the Boston Celtics.