Oklahoma State University Athletics
Hoops Offseason Blending Hard Work With Team Chemistry
August 28, 2015 | Cowboy Basketball
STILLWATER – Oklahoma State senior Phil Forte is known across the country as one of the hardest working players in college basketball, but even he says the bar has been raised by the Cowboys this offseason.
"This is definitely one of the toughest summers we've had since I've been here," Forte said. "Everything has been more intense, but it's been good. It's been about building our mental toughness."
Agility workouts, weight-room sessions, individual on-court drills and full-team practices have been ongoing for the last three months, and continue despite classes starting on campus.
"Being in the weight room as much as we have, I'm not used to it coming from high school," said freshman Jawun Evans, sporting a smile. "But I'm getting used to it. It will pay off in the end."
Fortunately for Evans, head coach Travis Ford has spent almost as much time developing the team's chemistry as he has their jump shots. The squad visited a local water park, cooked dinner for each other, and even had a paintball adventure.
"We've done a lot of stuff away from the court, and I think you're starting to see that pay off," Forte said. "Everyone is gelling on the court, and this is definitely the closest team I'm been on since I've been here. We're way ahead of schedule when it comes to team bonding."
"This is definitely one of the toughest summers we've had since I've been here," Forte said. "Everything has been more intense, but it's been good. It's been about building our mental toughness."
Agility workouts, weight-room sessions, individual on-court drills and full-team practices have been ongoing for the last three months, and continue despite classes starting on campus.
"Being in the weight room as much as we have, I'm not used to it coming from high school," said freshman Jawun Evans, sporting a smile. "But I'm getting used to it. It will pay off in the end."
Fortunately for Evans, head coach Travis Ford has spent almost as much time developing the team's chemistry as he has their jump shots. The squad visited a local water park, cooked dinner for each other, and even had a paintball adventure.
"We've done a lot of stuff away from the court, and I think you're starting to see that pay off," Forte said. "Everyone is gelling on the court, and this is definitely the closest team I'm been on since I've been here. We're way ahead of schedule when it comes to team bonding."
Players Mentioned
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