My first full week here at SPU has been a great experience after transferring in this year from Colorado Christian University, I didn't quite know what to expect when I arrived. Basketball has been rigorous with ten practices in six days. That doesn't include three intense weight lifting sessions.

It is clear to see that the coaching staff expects a lot out of us and will do what it takes to push us to be the best team we can be. It is so neat to see this early in the year how strong the chemistry is among our team. The returning guys have welcomed us four new players with open arms. I am eagerly anticipating seeing how our team performs on the court this year.

Not only do the coaches hold us to high standards on the court, but in the classroom as well. This team is the reigning league academic champions. This expectation of academic excellence comes along with becoming a Falcon. It is exciting to be a part of this program that places such high value on academics.

I am transferring in this year athletically as a junior and academically as a senior. I tore my groin and my labrum in my hip during the practice before our first game last year while playing for Colorado Christian University. This injury kept me on the sidelines for the entire season, and it was so difficult not being able to contribute to my team on the court.

However, in retrospect I am so thankful things worked out the way they did. I learned a lot through this experience about trusting in God and knowing that he is in control of each situation. Because of last year's injury, I retained the year of eligibility and am now able to play for two more years. I feel so blessed to be a part of this program at SPU and contribute in any way that I can.

I am so excited for this unique opportunity for our team to take a trip to the Bahamas. As a new player, it is a huge advantage for me to begin practice this early and gain some experience playing in a new system. Our team has a significant jumpstart on any other team in the nation being able to play organized games together this early in the year. I look forward to see how this pays off for us in the future.

Beyond basketball, I think this trip gives us guys a chance to get to know each other better and build great relationships. I cannot say I am disappointed that one of the days we are there we get to spend the day at waterpark. Being a redhead with freckles, sunscreen will be one of the first items packed.

I am pumped to continue to grow as a team on and off the court. I look forward to what God has in store for this year.