Keith Harrell, an important member of the Seattle University men's basketball team in the mid-to-late 1970s before becoming a successful motivational speaker, passed away Monday after battling spinal cancer.
Nicknamed "Silk", Harrell was a two-time captain for Seattle U, finishing his collegiate career with 1,141 points, 619 rebounds, and 287 assists, averaging 10.9 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per game. During his senior season of 1978-79, he averaged 16.0 points and 5.3 rebounds per game, shooting 53.1 percent from the field and 74.4 percent from the free throw line. Along with future NBA draft picks Clint Richardson, Carl Ervin, and Jawann Oldham, Harrell helped Seattle U to a 15-11 record, including an 82-78 victory in the season opener at Washington and an 81-67 victory over California.
Harrell graduated from Seattle University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in community service and embarked on a 14-year career with IBM as a sales representative. After becoming one of IBM's top sales and training instructors, Harrell became a motivational speaker, addressing audiences for over 100 corporate clients, including Microsoft, McDonald's, AT&T, American Express, Boeing, and Coca-Cola.
Harrell grew up in Seattle, leading Garfield High School to an undefeated season and the AAA state championship in the 1973-74 season. He earned Most Valuable Player honors from the state's sportswriters and picked up All-City and All-State recognition. Harrell was living in Scottsdale, Ariz., at the time of his passing.
Funeral arrangements are forthcoming. The Seattle University athletics department extends its prayers and best wishes to Harrell's family and friends.