Every year, as basketball season approaches, the anticipation of a new season increases.
Every year, there are also new faces on the team.
This year, freshman Patrick Banks, from Perth, Australia, is adjusting to living in a new country, as well as playing on a new team.
“People in Ottawa have been really accommodating, really nice and very social,” Banks said. “My teammates have all been nice.”
Sophomore Colin Nichols said that Banks offers something different to the team.
“He brings an international style and experience, and a different vision of the game,” he said.
Coach Andy Carrier brought Banks to Ottawa. He credits his time playing in Australia for Banks’ recruitment.
“After college I played a couple seasons in Australia, so I have some connections down there,” Carrier said. He added that several of his former players have also traveled to Australia to play ball.
One of those connections Carrier established during his time playing in Australia was with Trevor Pugh, the U-20 national coach. Patrick played for him.
“He was trying to find an opportunity for Patrick to come to the U.S. and go to school.
He talked with his assistant coach, who contacted me and now here he is,” Carrier said. “We are excited to have him here in Ottawa.”
Carrier said Banks is a talented athlete who is competitive and passionate for the game.
“He is a 6-1 combo guard,” Carrier said. “He is skilled enough to play the point, but he also shoots the ball well enough to play off the point and play the off guard.”
“It will be interesting to see how he makes some adaptions to our game,” Carrier said. “I think it would be an advantage for us to have someone that does play that style too.”
Carrier said the season looks good for the Braves if they can avoid injuries.
“If we can stay healthy and work hard it can be an outstanding season for us,” Carrier said. “Our goal is to win the championship and get back to that national tournament.”