Note: The following appears in the Furman football gameday program.
For Banks Pope, wearing the orange and white has always been more than just football…it is family, legacy and a lifelong dream come true. The Columbia, S.C. native did not take the traditional path to the field at Clemson. As a walk-on tight end, his story is one built on faith, persistence and an unwavering love for the Tigers.
Pope began high school playing both defensive tackle and defensive end before switching to tight end as a junior.
“Starting at tackle is a very tough position. There’s not much benefit other than getting to hit people. So when I transitioned to tight end and got to touch the ball, it was definitely more fun.”
Before his senior season, Pope was committed to App State, but when Clemson called with a walk-on opportunity, he could not say no.
“I was getting recruited by smaller schools during COVID. I didn’t really get to visit anywhere, but I grew up a Clemson fan. My dad, both my brothers and my mom went here. I’d been coming to games my whole life. It was always a dream to come here.”
That dream became reality just days before the start of his college journey.
“When I got the phone call a couple of days before signing day, I was like, ‘Yeah, I definitely want to go to school at Clemson.’”
The walk-on journey has not been easy.
“It’s definitely been a tough road. It’s a lot harder than I thought it would be. But it has been worth it. If you put in the effort and work, you can earn playing time.”
Pope’s motivation comes from the people closest to him, and he credited his family and friends for helping him.
“My family kept pushing me to stick with it because this time doesn’t last forever. My friends here keep me grounded and humble.”
Growing up in Columbia only deepened Pope’s appreciation for Clemson’s success.
“Clemson’s tradition means a lot. I grew up during the prime era of Clemson football. Where I’m from, South Carolina doesn’t have the same tradition, so Clemson’s success made it easy to cheer for.”
Some of his favorite memories as a Tiger come from bowl season.
“All the bowl games have been special. We’re secluded from the rest of the world for a week and together as a team, traveling, eating dinners and hanging out with the tight ends.”
Heading into this season, Pope’s mindset was simple…enjoy it.
“Last year, I thought it might be my last, so coming back, I wanted to take it all in and make it count.”
He credited his position group for making this year so special.
“This is probably the closest group of tight ends we’ve had. Logan (Brooking) came in as a freshman, and Charlie Johnson moved over from wide receiver, and those are both great guys who have made the room a lot of fun.”
Beyond football, Pope has found purpose through P.A.W. Journey, Clemson’s leadership and community engagement program.
“P.A.W. Journey got me involved with Habitat for Humanity, which is an awesome organization. I have a degree in construction science & management, so getting to help build homes connects with what I’ve studied and what I love to do.”
When he is not studying or practicing, Pope enjoys life outdoors.
“I love hunting, fishing, watching football and hanging out with friends.”
Looking back, #44 knows his time at Clemson is something he will cherish forever.
“The fans have made this a special place to come back to. It’s been an incredible journey and one I’ll always be thankful for.”
