Spring is almost here, which means winter sports are slowly ending. For the University of Wisconsin- Superior Men’s Basketball team, a chance to host a playoff game is within reach. One player who has helped them is J’Vaun Walker.
The senior guard hit 1,000 career points against Marian University on Jan. 22, 2024. He finished that game with 9 points, earning his historic milestone on a free throw.
“J’Vaun has impacted me as a coach by not only being able to work together on the basketball side of things on the court, but also going through both adversity and successes together,” said head men’s basketball coach Greg Polkowski.
“J’Vaun came to campus during the Covid Pandemic and also at a time when we were still developing and growing our program. J’Vaun’s belief, commitment, and enthusiasm in all of these processes has made all of us better and allowed us to find further successes together in this journey. I have a great appreciation for not only what I have learned from J’Vaun but also in our relationship.”
Being able to hit such a big milestone doesn’t come easy. Overcoming challenges is a big part of the game and being successful. “I’ve had my fair share of bad games and at times that’s brought my confidence down,” said Walker, “I realized that being consistent in staying confident is helpful to play consistent as well.”
Being able to stay confident through challenging times was made easier by his team. “I think what makes us so special is our bonding off the court. This team is really close with each other. To us we know that there’s life after basketball and I think the relationships we’ve made reflect that,” said Walker.
With the end of the season closing in and the Upper Midwest Athletic Conference tournament around the corner, the Yellowjackets’ leading scorer hopes to secure a playoff game at home.
“I’m looking forward to the memories that we’ll make in the last stretch of the season, as well as making a push to host another home playoff game,” said Walker.
The Yellowjackets have a chance to host a playoff game as they wrap up the season on the road facing Martain Luther on Feb. 16 and Bethany Lutheran on Feb. 17.
