The Palm Beach Atlantic University (PBA) men's basketball team has been a staple of the Sunshine State Conference (SSC) for over two decades. With a rich history of competitive success, the team has established itself as a force to be reckoned with in NCAA Division II basketball.
A Brief History of PBA Men's Basketball
The PBA men's basketball program was established in 1988, and since then, the team has experienced its fair share of ups and downs. However, under the guidance of experienced coaches and talented players, the team has consistently demonstrated its ability to compete at a high level.
In the early 2000s, the team began to experience a resurgence, led by the coaching of veteran coach, Terry Worrell. During Worrell's tenure, the team won several conference championships and made multiple appearances in the NCAA Division II tournament.
Today, the team continues to thrive under the leadership of head coach, David Balza. With a strong emphasis on teamwork, discipline, and community involvement, Coach Balza has established a culture of excellence within the program.
Team Achievements and Accolades
Throughout its history, the PBA men's basketball team has achieved numerous accolades, including:
- 5 SSC championships
- 7 NCAA Division II tournament appearances
- 1 SSC Tournament championship
- 10 All-American selections
- 20 All-SSC selections
These achievements demonstrate the team's commitment to excellence and its ability to compete at the highest level in NCAA Division II basketball.
Notable Alumni and Current Players
The PBA men's basketball program has produced several notable alumni, including:
- Matt Nichol, former player and current assistant coach
- Scott Taylor, former player and current head coach at a local high school
- Jonathan Powell, former player and current professional player overseas
As for current players, the team boasts a talented roster, featuring players such as:
- Jordan Eichelberger, senior guard and 2-time All-SSC selection
- Jake Porter, junior forward and SSC Freshman of the Year
- Chris Franklin, sophomore guard and SSC All-Tournament team selection
These players, along with their teammates, have helped establish the PBA men's basketball program as a force to be reckoned with in NCAA Division II basketball.
Community Involvement and Service
The PBA men's basketball team is deeply committed to community involvement and service. Throughout the year, the team participates in various outreach programs, including:
- Visiting local hospitals and nursing homes
- Participating in charity basketball games
- Volunteering at local food banks and community centers
These efforts demonstrate the team's commitment to giving back to the community and making a positive impact on the lives of those around them.
Facilities and Resources
The PBA men's basketball team has access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources, including:
- The Greene Complex, a 2,500-seat arena with a NCAA-regulation basketball court
- The Rubin Arena, a 1,500-seat arena with a NCAA-regulation basketball court
- A fully-equipped strength and conditioning center
- A sports medicine and athletic training facility
These facilities provide the team with the resources it needs to train, practice, and compete at a high level.
Coaching Staff and Support Staff
The PBA men's basketball team is led by a experienced and dedicated coaching staff, including:
- Head Coach David Balza
- Assistant Coach Matt Nichol
- Assistant Coach Chris Jones
- Strength and Conditioning Coach Tom Mann
The team also has a support staff that includes athletic trainers, sports information directors, and academic advisors.
Recruiting and Scholarships
The PBA men's basketball program offers a range of scholarships and financial aid packages to prospective student-athletes. The team recruits talented players from across the country, and offers a range of benefits, including:
- NCAA Division II scholarships
- Academic scholarships
- Financial aid packages
- Competitive stipends
The team's recruiting process is highly competitive, and prospective student-athletes must meet certain eligibility requirements to be considered.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible to play for the PBA men's basketball team, prospective student-athletes must meet the following requirements:
- Meet NCAA Division II eligibility requirements
- Have a minimum GPA of 2.5
- Have a minimum SAT score of 1000 or ACT score of 21
- Have a minimum of 16 core courses in high school
Prospective student-athletes who meet these requirements can contact the coaching staff to inquire about recruiting and scholarship opportunities.
Conclusion
The Palm Beach Atlantic University men's basketball team is a highly competitive program with a rich history of success. With a talented roster, experienced coaching staff, and state-of-the-art facilities, the team is poised for continued success in the years to come.
If you are a prospective student-athlete looking for a challenging and rewarding basketball experience, the PBA men's basketball program may be the perfect fit for you. Contact the coaching staff today to learn more about recruiting and scholarship opportunities.
What is the Palm Beach Atlantic University men's basketball team's conference affiliation?
+The Palm Beach Atlantic University men's basketball team is a member of the Sunshine State Conference (SSC).
Who is the head coach of the Palm Beach Atlantic University men's basketball team?
+The head coach of the Palm Beach Atlantic University men's basketball team is David Balza.
What are the eligibility requirements for prospective student-athletes?
+Prospective student-athletes must meet NCAA Division II eligibility requirements, have a minimum GPA of 2.5, have a minimum SAT score of 1000 or ACT score of 21, and have a minimum of 16 core courses in high school.