Jeff Bye ’84 Remembers Watching Michael Jordan Score Game-Winning Basket With Brothers

 

Michael Jordan scores the game winning basket in 1982.

Our historian, Akash Mishra, recently had the opportunity to speak with one of our alumni, Jeff Bye ’84. Bye currently works in medical sales for Cook Endoscopy in the Raleigh-Durham area. One of his favorite memories from his time as an undergraduate was watching Michael Jordan score the game-winning basket to secure the National Championship title in 1982 and celebrating with his brothers in the chapter house.

Here’s what Jeff had to say:

What was your favorite memory from your Sigma Nu days?

“I can still vividly remember being in the chapter room when Michael Jordan hit the famous game-winner to secure the 1982 National Championship. Everyone was standing up on the couches screaming, and I remember having my hand on the ceiling of the chapter room while celebrating.”

Can you share any specific stories about living in the fraternity house?

 “Living in the house was an incredible experience. It was almost like being in the army. If you had any weakness, your brothers would capitalize on it and embarrass you until it became impossible to feel humiliated anymore. That’s what makes our bonds with one another so strong. We always kept it real with one another. There was never any sugarcoating or beating around the bush. Girls in sororities can be artificial to one another sometimes, but living in the house truly was like growing up with 32 brothers. We fought, partied, slept, ate, and lived together. Living in the house was an experience that was glorious and miserable. However, it’s reassuring that to this day, whether I’m successful or broke, I have great friends who have my back.”

What’s your advice for undergraduate brothers of the Chapter?

“Enjoy your time as much as you can. Don’t blink. This is the last time in your life that you will be carefree. Not too long after you finish, you will have a job, a wife, and kids. Enjoy every road-trip, football Saturday, party, and the day-to-day interaction with your brothers. They are memories that will last a lifetime.”

What are your favorite Sigma Nu memories? Share them with us by clicking here to submit an update.