Oswego East Student Athlete of the Week-Gerard Brown-Shipp

Expectations for the boys' basketball team entering this season were understandably high. The pre-season press was rightfully given to standout guard Ray J Dennis and big men Sam Schultz and Kamron Battle. However, the team's hot 5-0 start can be attributed to more than just individual players. The success of the team in the early part of the season comes from, as head coach Ryan Velazquez describes it, "our commitment to the Oswego East Basketball Program Core Values." There is no one who embodies these core values more than senior guard Gerard Brown-Shipp, which is why he is this week's Oswego East student-athlete of the week.

"Gerard is as tough as a competitor as they come, and always brings his hard hat to practice and is ready to compete, says Velazquez. Gerard's attitude has always been about being as competitive as possible, dating back to when he got his start in competitive basketball at age 10.

Not only does Gerard see basketball as an avenue for competition, but he also uses it as a creative outlet. "What I love most about basketball is you can be good in so many different ways," says Gerard. He goes on to add, "There are so many different ways to play and so many different ways to be good, which is why players are so different. I enjoy most the opportunity basketball provides me to be creative."

Gerard's fierce competitiveness helps give the Wolves a boost at crucial moments during games. "[Gerard] give us a spark off the bench with his defensive pressure guarding the ball." Not only is Gerard difficult for the opposition to handle, but his sweltering defensive pressure during practices also help prepare his teammates as well as himself. "[Gerard] challenges his teammates on a daily basis, which makes us collectively a better team," says Velazquez.

The Wolves 19-8 record from last season has given them momentum to go on an early season run, including winning the Hoops for Healing tournament at Oswego High School. The early season successes and tough road wins have helped prepare the Wolves for the very rugged SPC conference, which opens this Friday vs. Plainfield East. Last season's regional championship loss to Joliet Central has left a bitter taste in their mouth, and this season's goals include both a conference and regional championship and beyond.

Gerard's personal goals are simply about improvement, stating, "I wanted to raise my stats and play more freely, but I also want to take on a bigger role both on and off the court." Gerard's 2.5 points per game and one assist per game only tell part of the story as he provides much-needed depth at the guard position and a defensive stopper in difficult situations.

The drive to improve comes from Gerard's understanding that basketball will not last forever and he needs to make the most of his opportunities, saying, "I want to be the best version of me as possible, but most importantly I don't want to have any regrets and leave it all out on the court."

As a senior, Gerard is keeping his options open about next year, which may or may not include playing basketball. Academically, Gerard is interested in mechanical engineering and business finance. Every summer since freshman year Gerard has attended Purdue University's engineering camp for the summer, an experience that has provided him with invaluable insight and experience into a possible future career.

Gerard has taken advantage of Oswego East's automotive classes, giving him hands-on experience for a possible future in mechanical engineering. Gerard's Automotive Service Operations teacher, Tyler Friedland, believes Gerard has a bright future in mechanical engineering and understands who Gerard's mentality helps contribute to a successful start to the season on the court for the Wolves.

"[Gerard] has always been a great kid," says Tyler. He goes on to add, "He is always willing to work and help others, and I would definitely classify him as a leader in the shop. He has continued to be a good student through this semester and continues to be respectful and thoughtful towards others. I think he will do great with mechanical engineering because he has the academic ability to do well with math and science as well as the hands-on experience he has gained in the auto classes.

However bright Gerard's future, he and the Wolves are quick to understand they have a great deal of work and season ahead of them if they want to achieve their goals. Gerard will undoubtedly continue to lead in whatever way is necessary for the team's success, and understands just how valuable the time is as his senior year is almost halfway complete. He encourages future Wolves to, "try as many things as you can and enjoy your moments because they go by so fast." The Wolves are hopeful they can make many additional moments to their already hot start and hopefully leave a legacy that will hang in the rafters for years to come.