One of the great men’s basketball players for the Seahawks in the ’90s was John Spann. Spann was a member of the team from 1992 to 1995, and started his senior season at the forward position.

During Spann’s tenure, he contributed much to the Seahawk program and reached several marks that stand out even today. He holds the 23rd position on the All-Time Appearance List, playing in 102 games. In addition, Spann is in the Top 20 of All-Time Blocks for the Seahawks. He graduated in 1995 and went on to receive his master’s in accounting at UNC Wilmington.

After graduation, Spann moved to Raleigh to work for Ernst & Young, a successful accounting firm. After six months, he began to feel the call to the ministry; so he enrolled at the Duke Divinity School in 1997. In May of this year, Spann completed course work and graduated with a degree.

Today, Spann is working as the Financial Accountant at Friendship Missionary Baptist Church in Charlotte, N.C. On the weekends, he leads youth revivals when he is not preaching.Originally from Maryland, Spann now calls himself a North Carolinian.

“(North Carolina) really has become a home for me. You’re looking at better living conditions, better school systems…better climate. A lot of my friends have migrated to this area as well,” Spann said.

Even though Spann’s involvement with basketball is now limited, he hopes to begin coaching a YMCA youth team soon.Spann, who is single, continues to support the Seahawks from Charlotte. His life is filled with ministering the word of God, and enjoying memories of his days playing ball at UNCW.