Western Wayne Today

Staying in Detroit was not initially part of Ian Larkin's plan, but circumstances led him to remain in the city. The former Wayne State men's basketball player reflects positively on how things unfolded. "Something about Detroit and even Wayne State that I like is it's really, 'put your hard hat on, come grind,'" Larkin said.

Larkin graduated from Wayne State University (WSU) in 2013, having grown up and attended school in Detroit. He excelled at Renaissance High School as a student-athlete before committing to the University of Detroit Mercy under coach Perry Watson. After an injury and Watson's retirement, Larkin found himself without a place on the team, which he describes as a formative experience: "I think it has made me stronger for where I am today."

Wayne State was not initially on Larkin's radar; however, he eventually joined their basketball program. His time there was marked by achievements including becoming only the third player in program history to record 1,000 points, 500 rebounds, and 100 blocked shots. His accolades include All-GLIAC First Team (2012-13) and NABC All-Midwest Region Second Team (2012-13). Reflecting on his awards, Larkin said: "Getting recognized by your peers and the coaches as one of the better players in the league is always rewarding."

He attributes much of his success to his earlier rejection at UDM: "My experience at Detroit Mercy really fueled me to be the best I could in every aspect." Beyond personal accomplishments, Larkin values his team's successes during his tenure.

In 2019, he was inducted into WSU's Hall of Fame—a recognition that came as a surprise. "I'm extremely honored and humbled," commented Larkin upon receiving this honor.

Now working as a corporate attorney at Taft in Detroit/Southfield, Larkin helps business owners with mergers and acquisitions. He appreciates being able to support individuals from diverse backgrounds achieve their goals: "It's really rewarding work."

His decision to pursue law was influenced by Robert Ackerman from WSU Law School. Reflecting on his journey through Wayne State and beyond, Larkin expresses gratitude for those who supported him along the way.

Among those influential figures are David Greer and Rob Fournier from WSU athletics. Despite challenges faced under Greer's coaching style—described by Larkin as a love-hate relationship—he acknowledges its role in preparing him for life after college.

Larkin never planned on attending Wayne State but now feels indebted to what became home during pivotal years: "I owe a lot to Wayne State... It is a great school [with] good people."