Story time with Sampson: A mother’s love

Volume 2 of a series of stories with coach Kelvin Sampson

When coach Kelvin Sampson thinks of Valentine’s Day, his mind turns to the steady, quiet love of his mother, Eva Sampson, who never failed to make him feel special.

The Pembroke, N.C., native still holds on to a simple childhood tradition he shared with his three sisters. It was a reminder that even on the longest days, their mother always found a way to show her love.

“My mother worked a lot of 12-hour shifts,” Sampson said, “But every Valentine’s Day she made sure each of us had a card and a little box of candy.”

At school, he made secret valentines for his female classmates, believing the holiday was just for them; however, at home, he was always celebrated.

“I always thought Valentine’s Day was for the girls,” he said. “But my mother would always get me a Valentine’s Day gift.”

It never had to be extravagant. A Baby Ruth, a Milky Way, or a Butterfinger were the go-tos for Sampson, who admits he has “always had an affinity for candy bars.” 

The sweetness wasn’t just in the chocolate. It was in the gesture, a small but lasting expression of a mother’s love.

When he was 16, he began dating his forever Valentine, Karen Sampson. More than four decades later, they remain side by side, sharing the journey not only with each other but also with their son, assistant coach Kellen Sampson, and their daughter, chief of staff Lauren Sampson, making their time in Houston a true family endeavor.

After being named a finalist for the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, Sampson reflected on his wife’s constant presence throughout his career.

“She’s been there every step of the way,” Sampson said. “There’s no way I would be where I am right now without her. She’s seen a lot of ups and downs, but that’s what has made this journey what it is: to be able to survive, advance, and keep going.”

He traces those lessons on love and perseverance back to his mother.

“Make sure you show the people you love that you are thinking of them,” he said. “I always think of my mother.”