Delaware State twins lean on their bonds and roots as they embrace Black college life

Identical twins Kaseem and Kareem Watson are bonded in multiple ways beyond their looks. The first-year Delaware State University basketball players also share a strong work ethic, a passion for the game and a desire to make an impact on and off the court.

The 6-foot-8 siblings, who are from Philadelphia, signed with the Hornets in May as transfers from California State University, Bakersfield.

“This isn’t just about basketball for us, it’s about representing where we come from and doing something special,” said Kaseem Watson, who currently ranks No. 2 on the Hornets in scoring and rebounding (averaging 13 points and 6.2 rebounds).

Known for their synergy on the court, the twins, who were born two minutes apart, are both studying sports management to ensure their goals align with a comprehensive understanding of the NBA, a league they aspire to join together.

The Watson brothers, graduates of West Catholic Preparatory High School in Philadelphia, were standout students with 4.0 GPAs. They led their high school team to a Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association 3A quarterfinal finish in 2021 and gained valuable experience playing for the K-Low Elite AAU program under coach Lonnie Lowry, the older brother of Philadelphia 76ers point guard Kyle Lowry.

“Coming [from] where we come from, it is a tough city, and that plays a big part in how we play,” Kareem Watson said. “We always preach that we are going to play hard and play tough.

“Playing in parks around Philly, and the coaches that we played for, they instilled [that] in us early … and that [is] something we carried with us our whole life.”

The brothers said they have grown since transitioning to the historically Black university.

“We’ve become more open and vocal,” Kaseem Watson said. “Before, we were in our own shell, but now we’re learning to connect with more people and build relationships.”

Delaware State coach Stan Waterman is excited to have the Watsons on the Hornets. During his first recruiting visit in June 2021, he initially tried to sign them up after high school.

“Kaseem and Kareem bring such high energy, basketball IQ and are very unselfish,” Waterman said. “Their work ethic is unmatched, and they’re the type of players who can take our program to the next level.”     

The Watson brothers, who faced comparisons due to their similar athletic skills, had to prove themselves before joining the Delaware State team. 

“There was a lot of doubt about us being compared as twins and just coming from where we come from. We worked hard and earned it,” Kareem Watson said.

Waterman believes the twins fit right into the culture of unity he has built for the Delaware State Hornets. 

“Kaseem is a bit more offensive-minded, while Kareem brings a defensive edge. Together, they make each other better and push the whole team forward,” he said.

The connection between the siblings is grounded in candid communication. 

“The main thing is just telling each other the truth,” Kaseem Watson said. “It’s hard to lie to yourself, and it’s even harder to lie to your twin.”

Kareem Watson, the younger of the two, added, “Some nights it’s tough, and some nights we comfort each other. Just having him there is huge because you always have a friend you can talk to.”

Their bond is also reflected in their tattoos, positioned in the same place below each twin’s right ear. Kareem Watson’s tattoo says “Dreamin” and Kaseem Watson’s reads “Be you” as a reminder to stay true to who they are.

“You’ve got to be yourself at all times. Don’t try to fit in, just be yourself,” Kaseem Watson said.

Kareem Watson emphasized the importance of staying grounded.

“Keep your circle tight and stay humble,” he said. “The streets aren’t worth it. Just work hard, stay focused and let that be the guide.”

Returning to the East Coast brings the twins closer to home after spending two years in Bakersfield, California, roughly two hours north of Los Angeles.

The Watson brothers are excited for several key matchups this season, including a homecoming of sorts when Delaware State faces Saint Joseph’s University in Philadelphia on Dec. 28. Delaware State will challenge several non-conference opponents both at home and on the road, and the twins said their game against Saint Joseph’s will feel especially meaningful. 

“It’s special for us to go back home and play in front of friends and family,” Kareem Watson said.

The non-conference games will provide a chance for the duo to showcase their skills in front of Delaware State fans.

“We’ve been putting in the work, and now it’s time to put it on display,” Kaseem Watson said. “Our team’s goal is to win a championship. Everything else will follow if we keep that goal in mind.”

The twins are also looking forward to playing Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference rival Howard University on Jan. 4, 2025.

“I’ve heard a lot about Howard and the rivalry there,” Kaseem Watson said. “That’s one game I’ve definitely marked on my calendar.”

The twins credit teammates Martaz Robinson and Alston Andrews for their leadership and mentorship. 

“They push us to be better, and we want to do the same for others,” Kareem Watson said.

Robinson, who was named to the Preseason All-MEAC First Team, praised the twins’ scoring prowess. 

“Kaseem and Kareem — I call one Brandon Ingram and the other KD [Kevin Durant]. They are very good and know how to score the ball,” Robinson said. “I feel like we lost two good scorers last year, but with Kareem and Kaseem added, we’ve gained even more scoring responsibilities. I love that for us. They’re a great fit, very unselfish and incredibly hardworking.”

As the twins kick off their journey at Delaware State, they are excited to exude HBCU pride. 

“Wearing these colors means a lot,” Kareem Watson said. “It’s an honor, and we want to take this program as far as we can.”

The twins are also documenting their experiences, both on and off the court on their Instagram and YouTube pages.