Audio - Fish Tank
Davone Bess: A Hang Loose Lifestyle
Raised in Oakland, California, Davone Bess starred at Skyline High School under the direction of Oakland area coaching legend, John Beam. Bess received a scholarship offer to Oregon State, however a post-graduation arrest led to the loss of his scholarship and more than a year in the Byron Boys Ranch Juvenile Facility. With help from Coach Beam, Bess overcame the odds and ultimately attended the University of Hawaii, where he would set school records with 293 receptions and 41 touchdowns in just three seasons. Despite his success at Hawaii, Bess went undrafted in 2008 and signed with the Miami Dolphins as an undrafted free agent. Bess not only made the team, but finished the regular season with 54 receptions, second most in NFL history for an undrafted rookie wideout. In one of the most powerful Fish Tank episodes to date, Davone candidly shares the details of his arrest after high school, as well as the lessons he learned while incarcerated. He fondly recalls his days with the Miami Dolphins, including barbeques at Paul Soliai's house, and the camaraderie he shared with fellow wide receivers Ted Ginn, Jr. and Greg Camarillo. Davone is also extremely honest and vulnerable as he opens up about his post career struggles with depression.
