The Men’s Basketball team defines REVERENCE as being able to show and demonstrate a deep level of RESPECT to everyone associated with our program and the university community. It’s very easy to get caught up in the moment while competing. We are all in search of the same goal. However, on this journey, we make it a point to understand that we value our team members, managers, coaches, chaplain and support staff in all that they do. By valuing and respecting everyone we understand that each member has a crucial role to fill on this team.  We realize that we are going to need everyone to make this a successful season. 

On our team – Reverence looks like a group of individuals that are looking to compete, have fun, and develop and cultivate relationships that will last long after our playing careers are over. I also believe that REVERENCE looks like a team that respects their opponents and appreciates the officials for their efforts, even though it may be difficult to do at times. Sure, we are competing and doing our very best to prove people wrong and win a championship, however, we are doing this in a manner that does not sacrifice or compromise our core values.

While reflecting upon REVERENCE – I am quickly reminded of the tough losses we experienced last year. Losing 6-7 games by 5 points or less. It seemed like it was one or two possessions or bounces of the ball that didn’t go the way we had planned for.  It was a very difficult and trying time, however, due to our coaches and the teammates respecting each other — we were able to come together to win 4 of the last 5 games and earn a post-season berth in the ECAC Tournament. I think this exemplifies the REVERENCE we have for each other as we were able to work through those challenges together.

I believe that we can all view ourselves as sacred.  Everyone brings something unique and different to this team.  There is a sacredness to each individual where we include and embrace all of the varying skill sets, on and off the court, that make each member who they are.  We realize how blessed and fortunate we are as student athletes here at Neumann University. We get to compete at a high level while receiving a great education. Sure, there are going to be days where we are tested and challenged but, these are the times where we can feel most sacred as these moments allow us to reflect and grow closer to the best version of ourselves.

In addition, I believe our gym is sacred because all of us share numerous moments out there. This court is where we come together as one.  We pour our blood, sweat and tears out on that court which brings us closer together with the hope of attaining a goal.  We are blessed to play in such a great arena like the Mirenda Center which is why we treat our facility with Reverence and gratitude.  We are proud to play in front of the Neumann community, our family, and friends and call ourselves KNIGHTS. Win or lose, we recognize that what we are experiencing is far greater than any contest result.