By Christopher McLaughlin
Three years ago, Shemik Thompson was named the
NEC Rookie of the Year. Now in his final year of eligibility, Thompson has joined another elite class of players. On Nov. 20, Thompson became the 32nd player in CCSU history to score 1,000 points.
“It feels good to be in that class of players, but I try not to think of it as out of the ordinary, my goal has always been to help my team,” said Thompson.
Over the past three years, Thompson has developed from a star rookie into the heart and soul of CCSU basketball. He has put in the time and effort to become the unquestioned leader of the team. His progress has encompassed all facets of his game, and shows up both on and off the court.
“After four years I can tell a difference,” said Thompson. “My decision making, my growth as a person and a leader is noticeable. I put a lot of work in over the summer, and it’s really helped my performance, I have to thank my coaches and teammates for really helping me out.”
During his career at CCSU, Thompson has showed countless times that he is willing to give his all for this team. Through heart, hustle and determination Thompson has earned not only the trust of his teammates, but the respect of his coach.
“I’ve never coached a tougher player,” said Head Coach Howie Dickenmen. “Not just physical toughness but mental as well, Shemik’s a winner and I don’t say that about many people.”
While scoring 1,000 points is a significant accomplishment that anybody would be proud of, it’s not how Thompson wishes to be remembered.
“I may set more records, but I’m not interested in the individual awards. I’m working really hard on playing on March 9. Being on the team that made it to the NCAA Tournament is what I want to be known for,” said Thompson.
With the men’s basketball team off to their best start in a decade, Thompson’s goal may soon be realized. It’s a long season, however, and Thompson knows this. He thoroughly prepares for each game and expects his best each time.
“I take every game very seriously,” said Thompson. “If I don’t perform well I take it personally. Right now we have the best record we’ve had, and we have to keep going in that direction. Every conference game we make sure we go hard, or we won’t be playing in March.
In addition to his own performance, Thompson takes the performance of his teammates just as seriously. His leadership both on and off the court is something that Dickenmen can rely on.
“The overall leadership he has shown has been remarkable, not just on the court but off it as well,” said Dickenmen.
Thompson remembers what it was like to be nervous before games, so he always makes sure his teammates feel comfortable.
“We have a lot of young guys, so I try to make sure that there loose. I’ve been there before, I’ve gone into games tense, it’s why I make sure everyone’s mindset is where it should be. That comes from being here for four years,” said Thompson.
As the season continues on, Thompson will continue to climb the CCSU leader boards. In addition to his place among the scoring leaders, Thompson ranks sixth all-time in steals and seventh all-time in assists. Though he may rise in these categories, he still has his sights set on one goal: making it to the NCAA Tournament.