The season never truly stops in NCAA Division I basketball.
Yes, the official games end.
But the players continue to work in the off season, and those who put in the most time give themselves the opportunity to be recognized by the Horizon League when it’s time to hand out post-season awards.
The men’s and women’s basketball teams had different levels of success this past season – the women upsetting nationally ranked Green Bay during the season and making it into the league championship as the men departed early. But players from both teams received honors from the Horizon League.
Jaleel Hogan, a junior, was named to the Horizon League men’s second team, and teammate Corey Allen earned horizon Freshman of the Year honors.
Three women received league recognition, too.
Senior Rosanna Reynolds was named to the league’s first team, junior Brianne Cohen to the second team and Anja Marinkovic to the all-freshman team.
The awards brought a mix of pride and humility to the players.
“It means a lot,” said Allen. “All the hard work I have put in has finally paid off. I’m just happy I can share it with all my teammates.”
Reynolds also believes that individual awards relate back to the team.
“It’s an honor to have any accolade from the Horizon league,” said Reynolds. “It really shows how well the team played this year, because you cannot get those awards without your team.”
Hard work is a key attribute that the players on both teams say you need if you want to receive these awards.
“During the summer, I am not relaxing,” said Cohen. “You still need to work.”
Putting in the work is a big part of it, Hogan said.
“Being a student-athlete comes with a lot of work,” said Hogan, “but we signed up for it and we’re ready to take on the challenge.”
These award winners do not shy away from the dedication it takes to be considered one of the best in the league.
The off-season leaves players reflecting on the past season – and the future one.
Even though the men’s Titans didn’t have the season they had hoped for, Allen was impressed with how the team came together at the end.
“We just need to continue to work and we will be fine,” said Allen.
Reynolds looks back on her final season fondly.
“We’re proud of our trials and tribulations and hopefully this team has paved a way for future teams,” said Reynolds. “We came up a little short but we still had a great season.”
Cohen is focused on what’s ahead.
“Continuing to get to the Horizon League championship is our goal for next year, as well as each individual improving,” she said.
Hogan also has his eyes set on next season.
“I have never been out the second round of a tournament,” Said Hogan. “Anything that I can do to help my team advance and hopefully make the NCAA tournament, I will do.”
