The University of Mississippi Athletics
Mean Lean Machine
2/7/2005 | Men's Basketball
Feb. 7, 2005
By Whitney Crisp
Athletics Media Relations Student Intern
"Mean Lean Fat Burning Machine" may be a catchphrase in a grill advertisement, but could also be tagged to Ole Miss basketball player Tommie Eddie.
Since last season, Eddie has dropped his weight from 270 pounds to 245. The senior from Brooklyn attributes his weight loss to a dedicated summer regiment that included a heavy dose of cardiovascular exercise and, most importantly, a healthy diet.
"I got a George Foreman grill, and it works," said Eddie. "It takes all the fat out of the food and helps me eat healthier. I now eat a lot of good foods with less grease."
A 6-foot-7 forward, Tommie Eddie has used his fat-free offseason to propel him to an outstanding senior campaign. He currently leads the team in field goal percentage at an amazing 58.4 percent, and has developed himself into an inside-outside scoring threat, raising his points average nearly 7 points to 12.1 per game. Eddie also ranks second in rebounding at 4.5.
Eddie said that the offseason weight loss and improved fitness has helped him raise his game in every facet.
"I feel that now I am quicker, lighter, and can move around easier," he said.
That improved mobility has resulted in some spectacular performances on the hardwood this year. Eddie has turned in eight games with 16 or more points, including a career-high 24 on 8-for-8 shooting against Tennessee Tech. He lit up UT-Martin for 20 points and 7 rebounds, and tallied 18 points and 9 boards in the road win over Memphis.
One of Eddie's more lackluster performances occurred on the road but provided perhaps his most memorable shot. Down 12 to VCU with 3:26 remaining, the Rebels rallied to within two points in the waning moments, when Eddie, in the midst of a dismal 3-for-10 night from the field, confidently unleashed the first three-point attempt of his Ole Miss career with 2.8 seconds left to steal the 63-62 victory in Richmond.
Rebel head coach Rod Barnes knows Eddie's abilities on the court, and has pushed him to meet his full potential.
"I am on him every day because I expect even more from him," said Barnes. "He may be averaging 12 points, but I think he's a guy that is capable of 16. It's unfortunate for us we only had him for two years."
Continuing to work hard and stay fit, Eddie has his eyes firmly planted on extending his final collegiate season a few extra games.
"If anything, I want us to make it to the postseason," he said.
