Shemar Bennett, a sophomore undeclared major, was named the Presidential Athletic Conference men’s basketball player of the week on Nov. 12, according Saint Vincent College Athletics. The award was the first of the 2018-19 season.
“[Bennett] is so raw with athletic ability,” Head Men’s Basketball Coach D.P. Harris said. “He is fast and plays above the rim.”
Harris said that Bennett had a big impact on the Nov. 13 win against Penn State-Altoona, scoring 15 points in 15 minutes.
“Basketball has always been an outlet for me, ever since I was young, [and] it plays an important role in my life,” Bennett said.
Off the court, Bennett said he is considering a major in finance. Bennett identified time management, not procrastinating, and knowing when his assignments are due as important methods for balancing basketball with academics.
“Education is also very important to me, knowing I need an education to be successful in today’s society,” Bennett said.
According to Harris, Bennett loves to read and takes his school work very seriously.
“I tease him because he is so smart he thinks too much,” Harris said.
Even under trying conditions, Bennett is a good role model, according to Harris. After Bennett got a technical foul and was unable to return to the Penn State-Altoona game, he apologized before the coach could say anything.
“[I’m] so proud to be his coach and see him represent our school in the right way,” Harris said.