Warrior Insider

First Christmases are supposed to be memorable, and it certainly was that for Hiram Thompson and his wife, Bridgette.

They spent their first Christmas as a married couple in the Stan Sheriff Center. It wasn’t exactly a tradtional way to celebrate the holiday, but success by Hiram and the Hawaii basketball team helped make it merry.

Hiram started at point guard for the Warriors and played all 40 minutes — despite a sore lower back — in a 68-57 victory over Mississippi State. He scored 14 points and had five assists to help lead the Warriors to the consolation title.

“It doesn’t really have that Christmas feel to it,” Thompson said shortly after the game. “But we’re going to have a good night tonight and celebrate, so we’re still happy.”

Bridgette was in the stands with other members of the family. Instead of peacefully enjoying the holiday, she watched nervously and cringed every time her husband fell to the ground.

“Sometimes I get a little bit worried, especially when he falls to the ground or when he plays a lot of minutes, you get a little nervous,” she said.

Knowing that Hiram would be occupied for most of Christmas Day, the couple opened their gifts on Christmas Eve. Hiram got Bridgette a hair straightener; her gift to him was late to arrive in the mail, so he’s still being kept in suspense.

In any case, it is a tradition they hope ends in 2010 … unless Hiram can play professional basketball in the future. If not, he will likely enjoy a more traditional Christmas next year since this is his last season with the Warriors.

“It was fun, but we’re excited to have a real Christmas next time,” Hiram said.