RJ Sunahara (#13), graduate student in the business marketing program, plays forward position in the game against Lynn University on Jan. 21. PHOTO BY INDAYA BYER.
Ryan Davis, freshman communication major and small forward on the men’s basketball team, comes from a history of basketball players.
“What inspired me to start playing basketball was probably my grandpa. He played basketball at Illinois University back in the day. And also my older brother because I usually followed him,” said Davis. “So he really turned me into the player that I am today. Him, my grandpa and my dad.”
Davis and other players made last season one to remember for NSU’s men’s basketball team, shattering records and exceeding expectations. Last year, the Sharks dominated the court, finishing with a winning record of 31 victories and earning a spot in the conference playoffs. But this season, the team is determined to take it to the next level.
Kobe Rodgers (#10), sophomore sports management major, plays two guard position in the game against Lynn University on Jan. 21.
PHOTO BY INDAYA BYER.
“The team goal is to go all the way, win the national championship. Right now, we’re 17-0, and we haven’t had one game that’s been single digits,” said Davis. “It’d be really cool, especially for my freshman year to come in and win a national championship with my team.”
As the Sharks gear up for the new season, all eyes are on the team to see if they can maintain the momentum from last year and make a run for the championship. With a strong core of returning players and a promising group of newcomers, the Sharks are poised for another winning season.
The team got off to a strong start this season, being led by their star player RJ Sunahara, junior redshirt power forward. Sunahara averages 18 points per game and has been named SSC Defensive Player of the Year and SSC Tournament MVP.
The Sharks have also demonstrated a strong attack presence. This balanced attack has resulted in several blowout victories and respectable performances against challenging opposition.
The team’s camaraderie and collaboration have been a big component in their success so far this season.
“Just meeting the team and bonding with the guys— that takes a lot on the court with the chemistry,” said Davis. “If you become friends with everybody on the team and you’re really close like family, that will help you win in a lot of those games.”
Coach Jim Crutchfield has been the head coach of the men’s basketball team since 2017. Under his leadership, the team has shown significant improvements in performance. Crutchfield is known for his strategic approach to coaching and ability to develop players.
He is a demanding but fair coach that holds his players to a high standard of excellence.
Working alongside Crutchfield is Jordan Fee, associate head coach.
Fee plays a crucial role in the team’s success on and off the court. He is known for his ability to connect with players and build a strong team culture, which has been a key factor in the Sharks’ recent achievements. He also works closely with the team to develop strategies and game plans that have helped them to achieve their goals.
“The goal is always the same, which is play hard, play smart, play together, and, at the end of the year, see where the chips fall,” said Fee.
The coaching staff aims to help the players improve both on and off the court.
“We like athletes who take care of their business in class, and we are also very fortunate to have a dedicated student-athlete support team, so we make sure they are enrolled in their right classes and stay on track,” said Fee.
Fee also makes sure his relationships with his players are strong.
“I believe in building deep and meaningful relationships with my players,” said Fee. “I think that if you can create a culture and group where they care more about the guy beside them than themselves and they focus more on the success of the team than their own individual success, there are a lot of great things to be achieved.”
The men’s basketball team is one to watch this season, with high expectations and a talented roster. Fans can expect an exciting and competitive season as the Sharks look to make their mark in the conference and beyond.
The players and the coaching staff are confident in their ability to succeed.
“Every day I wake up, and all I can think about is how to win,” said Fee.
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