Diary Series: Ira Bowman, Asst. Coach - NJIT

"As everyone is reaching the second portion of their schedules (conference play) it is always interesting to see the ebbs & flows of the college season. Watching low to mid major programs compete against "high major" schools & watching teams that have new nucleus' of players adapt & watching teams with experienced players come together quicker. All while keeping in mind that most of the schools are going through similar challenges on & off the court. .... Right now is the time of year that all of our student-athletes change their mind sets to that of a professional athlete. Meaning they have all finished their fall semester classes, grades are in, and all they have to focus on is basketball!  It's different for a lot of them because most of their classmates & friends are home for winter break while they are left on campus with just their teammates practicing & hopefully bonding with their teammates....I'm enjoying watching are guys start to figure things out on the court. (Congrats to the whole team for a  great semester in the class! With close to a 3.0 team GPA!)

Upperclassmen are leading the way, freshmen are starting to figure out the effort it takes.  This is what college athletics is all about to me. So many life long lessons are being learned that guys will take with them the rest of their adult careers.  I hope all the coaches & players appreciate the the opportunity that they have each & everyday when they get the chance to practice, travel & compete in a sport that has been a life changer to a myriad of people from all different cultures & backgrounds... Most importantly by giving the kids a chance to receive a college education. Secondly by giving the coaches an opportunity to provide guidance, structure & discipline to young student athletes that help direct & change the rest of their lives.

Appreciate & take advantage!

Good luck rest of way to everyone.