This week I sat down with men's basketball co-captain Jvonte Brooks '15 to discuss his recent injury, his role as a captain and the Big Green's hopes for the future.
What's your take on the season so far?
JB: It's a little disappointing. We've lost a little more, but at least we've won more games than last year. It's always good to see improvement, but there's definitely more room for improvement to be made.
What happened with your injury two weekends ago?
JB: The first play I was in I dislocated my thumb. I'll see the doctor this week and if it is hurt, I can't play the rest of the year. Hopefully I'm okay though.
So you knew for sure you would be out this weekend?
JB: Yeah, I [did] not play this weekend. I [was] sitting on the bench cheerleading, as I do best.
Do you think you'll make it back for any of the rest of the season?
JB: I wish I knew, but honestly it's not really my choice. I would play this weekend if I could, honestly, but it's up to the doctor I guess, and after I see the hand specialist it'll give me a better clue of where I'm at.
How does your absence affects the team?
JB: I think it hurts. I think I provide rebounding, toughness and just being a leader out there and helping them out, but I do think we'll do fine without me. We have plenty of talent, and a lot more talent than last year so we'll be alright.
What's the biggest difference not being a rookie?
JB: Just mainly knowing what to expect from the coaches, from your teammates, from the referees, from the other teams and from everything else. With more experience and as you get older, you get adapted to what's going on you're just a lot more upbeat with everything that's going on out there.
How is it being captain as a sophomore? Were you surprised that you were given this position?
JB: Yeah it was pretty surprising, but it's an honor. I think I'm the second in the school's history. It was a little shocking at first to be there with LaBove as well, but it's a responsibility I wanted and a responsibility I took and it's going well so far.
What's your favorite part of the season so far?
JB: I would say it's as easy as just being around the team all the time, just getting to know everyone, the bonds you build and the relationships you get to have with your teammates just going out there and getting to hang out with them everyday, being with them a lot and getting to know them personally.
What are your predictions for the rest of the season?
JB: I wouldn't be surprised if we won out honestly. I think we definitely have the talent to do so it's just a matter of us playing our game. If we play our game, I don't think anyone can beat us. I think the rest of the season is looking pretty good if we just stay focused. Obviously, we're not playing for the league title anymore but if we stay focused, we can still win games.
