Brandon Larrick, a freshman at Indiana University Kokomo, has played basketball since he was five years old. His decision to play for IUK came unexpectedly.

Photo: Brandon Larrick shows off his skills at the Cougars' first home basketball game.

“At first I was content on not playing in college, but Jake Robertson called me one day and talked me into coming out to an open gym that Coach Thompson was having. Jake told me I would miss basketball and he convinced me to play.” 

Larrick attended several open gyms before tryouts, which for him, weren’t as terrifying as he’d expected. “It wasn’t what I had anticipated. It was more or less just a couple open gyms.  Coach relied on how you looked in the open gym as well as your high school stats.” 

Brandon graduated from Western High School, where he also participated in baseball.  He grew up with two sisters and two brothers, one of whom is his twin. The boys played sports together all through grade school. “It is weird this year not having him on the court,” Larrick says. 

Although play is different for him, Larrick hopes to continue playing for IUK for the next few years. He is very familiar with the court and has played several different positions: “I played everywhere in the past, from point guard to center. I am currently a forward and center.” 

His knowledge of the game gives him a good leg up, as he is one of the youngest players on the team. Regardless of the age difference, the team seems to be working well together. “We try everyday to push each other in practice to make practice seem like a game scenario.  It’s hard to imitate the speed and flow of the game in practice, but we are all working well together, so we continue to make progress.” 

Larrick has put a lot of effort into the season so far, and is a leader for the team. Even as a freshman, Brandon has managed to put points on the board each game, and has proven to be a well-rounded player. As the games continue, Larrick hopes to carry on improving his play as an individual, as well as a team player.

Story by Bailey Stage, Staff Writer

When Jake Robertson first began his basketball career at the ripe age of six years old, he had no intentions of making it a long-term hobby. Now, as a college freshman and point guard for the Indiana University Kokomo Cougars, basketball has become a way of life.

Robertson grew up in Kokomo, Indiana, and started playing basketball at the Carver Community Center. He then went on to play for the Tri-Central Trojans, starting as a varsity player for three years.

“Playing basketball in high school was great. I accomplished a lot and had great people around me,” said Robertson.

As his collegiate career grew near, Robertson had a difficult decision to make. He looked at other colleges, but was lead to IU Kokomo.

“The basketball program is new, and it’s an opportunity for us to create something,” Robertson said. “I’m glad I am able to be close to home and do what I love.”

The team had a challenge on their hands in the beginning. They are young and had never played together before. Robertson said the toughest aspect was learning how each person played,  and then creating a team bond. However, the Cougars overcame obstacles due to the leadership of their coach, Jace Thompson.

“Coach Thompson has taught us more than just basketball,” said Robertson. “He’s taught us life lessons and really pushes us past our limits. He deserves all the credit.”

Robertson also mentioned he wouldn’t be anywhere without the support of his teammates. “Jonathan Kelly, Brandon Larrick, Jared Lawrence, and Aaron Knupp are awesome players and add a lot to the team,” he said. “Aaron’s determination is admirable – it’s like nothing fazes him, and it makes me work even harder.”

Robertson hopes that the basketball program only excels from here by gaining popularity throughout the community and creating more opportunities for players like him. Having the support of IU Kokomo’s students, faculty, and staff really means a lot to Robertson and the team, and it definitely boosts their confidence.

The next home game will be played on December 1^st against the Goshen College Maple Leafs at Western High School, at 7 p.m. Robertson encourages everyone to come out and watch the Cougars show off their months of hard work.

“Basketball is so fun and always brings me a new challenge. I’m so grateful to be a part of this team and this program,” he added.

Follow the Cougars on Twitter at @IUKBasketball.

Story by Mary Olk, Editor-in-Chief