Avand Dorian, a 2023 graduate from AGBU Manoogian-Demirdjian School, has made history by securing a spot on the USC Trojans men’s basketball team. This achievement marks a significant milestone as Avand becomes the first Armenian school graduate (lifer) to join a NCAA Division I basketball program, reports Zartonk Media.
An AGBU MDS Titans Varsity alumnus and current Armenia National Team Guard, Avand will officially continue his basketball career as a walk-on for the USC Trojans in the 2024/25 season. A product of AGBU Titans Varsity Boys Basketball in the San Fernando Valley, Avand’s journey to NCAA Division I highlights his exceptional talent and dedication.
“I am very excited for the opportunity to be a part of the USC men’s basketball team and am blessed to have the honor of representing AGBU and the rest of the Armenian community. I will do my best to embody what it means to be an Armenian by being disciplined and always leading by example,” said Avand Dorian.
The USC Trojans men’s basketball team is renowned for its competitive edge in the NCAA Division I. Avand’s inclusion in this esteemed program not only showcases his athletic prowess but also represents a proud moment for the Armenian community.
As a lifer and homegrown talent at AGBU Manoogian-Demirdjian School in Canoga Park, CA, Avand is the first Armenian school product to play at a Division I university. After a decorated high school career, where he collected three League MVPs, three All-CIF 1st teams, one California State 1st team, along with two league championships, two semifinal appearances, and two state appearances, Dorian was called up to play for the FIBA Armenia National Basketball Team for the second consecutive year.
“I see this not as a personal achievement, but as a large step for the Armenian Community as a whole. I hope to inspire the future generations of our community to take my achievements and surpass them,” Dorian told Zartonk Media.
He is now beginning his journey with the USC men’s basketball team as a freshman walk-on. Catch Avand Dorian competing internationally for Armenia Basketball in Los Angeles against Guatemala and Ireland on June 21 and June 23.
