Northwestern University Athletics
Drew's Views
3/29/2010 12:00:00 AM | Men's Basketball
March 29, 2010
Hello Wildcat Fans!
Our season came to an unfortunate end last week after a loss in the first round of the NIT to Rhode Island. In my opinion, there is no worse feeling in sports than having your season end and looking at the crushed faces of the seniors on the team. It was a very difficult loss for us, especially because it was a game we could have won. We struggled defensively throughout the game, and Rhode Island killed us from the three-point line.
It's hard not to look back, but we must concentrate on what lies ahead for our team. This week we will begin spring workouts which will consist of lifting, conditioning, pickup ball, and spending time in the gym individually. The offseason is a very important time for us, because this is the time when we improve as individuals. It is an opportunity for each player on the team to get stronger, quicker, and more skilled.
After workouts this spring, we have a quick week off in June before we return for summer school and workouts. During the summer, most of the team will take a class, some work internship positions, and the whole team will be a part of morning workouts. Personally, I need to work on my ball handling skills, foot speed, and overall strength and quickness. This year playing in the Big Ten, I wanted to be strong enough to withstand the physicality of other teams, but by next year I want to be strong enough to push other players around.
We have high expectations for ourselves next year, especially with the return of Kevin Coble and Jeff Ryan, and our hard work starts in the offseason. As a team, we are all ready and excited to begin next season. With all of the excitement of the NCAA tournament this month, we have been watching, feeling the anticipation for next year and our opportunity to be among the elite 65 teams.
This past week was our spring break. Because we were finished with the season, most of the team had the opportunity to go home for a week. I was able to spend a lot of time with family and friends, make a visit to Naperville Central to see Coach Kramer and my teachers, and sit back and relax. Although it was nice to have some time off, I couldn't help my desire to play basketball. Jeremy Nash came out to Naperville and spent a day playing ball with me at a gym near my house. It's upsetting to know that we won't play together next year. Having Jeremy as my roommate on the road, we have become pretty tight, and I am definitely going to miss him next year.
Our season overlaps with most other major breaks, so it was especially nice to spend some time at home this past week. However, next year I hope not to have a spring break, because that would mean we would still be playing in the postseason. The break was great, but I am happy to be back at school and ready to begin workouts. It was unusual to have such a long break from school and basketball, because I am used to my day being scheduled by the hour. It was nice to have free time for a couple days, but now I am ready to get back into a routine and start looking forward to next year.
Looking back on this season and my college experience so far, it has definitely been one of the most fun experiences of my life. The end of a season is tough every year, but it makes it easier knowing that we still have years to come to achieve our goals. I have learned a lot this year, and I hope that the knowledge and the skills I have gained will help me become a better player. Most freshmen have the distinct advantage that expectations aren't as high for them as for players with a year's experience. I didn't have a lot of pressure on me, coming into this season. Now that I have a year under my belt, next season will accompany high expectations for our team and me. I am looking forward to the new challenge!
Until Next Time!
