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Why Northwestern basketball alum Brooks Barnhizer feels the Oklahoma City Thunder are a perfect fit

The article titled "Why Northwestern Basketball Alum Brooks Barnhizer Is Returning to School" from Yahoo Sports delves into the decision of Northwestern University basketball player Brooks Barnhizer to return for another season rather than entering the professional ranks. The piece, penned by sports journalist Jeff Eisenberg, provides a comprehensive look at Barnhizer's journey, his reasons for staying in school, and the potential impact of his decision on both his career and the Northwestern basketball program.

Brooks Barnhizer, a 6-foot-6 guard from Lafayette, Indiana, has been a standout player for the Northwestern Wildcats. His journey to Northwestern was not straightforward. Initially, Barnhizer was a highly recruited high school player, but his recruitment process was impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, which limited his exposure to college scouts. Despite this, he committed to Northwestern, a decision influenced by his desire for a strong academic environment and the opportunity to play in the Big Ten Conference.

During his time at Northwestern, Barnhizer has shown significant growth both on and off the court. As a freshman, he played sparingly, averaging just 2.8 points per game. However, his sophomore year saw a marked improvement, with his scoring average jumping to 7.7 points per game. By his junior year, Barnhizer had become a key starter for the Wildcats, averaging 14.3 points and 6.7 rebounds per game. His development was not just statistical; he also became a leader on the team, known for his work ethic and dedication to improving his game.

The decision to return to Northwestern for another season was not an easy one for Barnhizer. As a junior, he had the option to declare for the NBA Draft, where he was projected to be a late second-round pick or an undrafted free agent. However, after consulting with his family, coaches, and mentors, Barnhizer decided that returning to school was the best path for his long-term career goals.

One of the primary reasons for his decision was the opportunity to further develop his skills. Barnhizer recognized that another year at Northwestern would allow him to refine his game, particularly his shooting and ball-handling abilities. He also saw the value in continuing to play in the competitive Big Ten Conference, which would provide him with high-level competition and exposure to NBA scouts.

Another significant factor in Barnhizer's decision was his academic pursuits. Northwestern is renowned for its academic rigor, and Barnhizer, who is majoring in economics, wanted to complete his degree before turning professional. He values the education he is receiving and believes that a degree from Northwestern will be beneficial in his post-basketball career.

Additionally, Barnhizer's decision to return was influenced by his desire to help Northwestern achieve more success on the court. The Wildcats have been a competitive team in recent years, making the NCAA Tournament in 2023 for the first time since 2017. Barnhizer believes that his presence can help the team build on that success and potentially make another tournament run. His leadership and experience are seen as vital to the team's future.

The impact of Barnhizer's decision extends beyond his personal development and the Northwestern basketball program. His choice to stay in school sends a positive message to other college athletes about the value of education and the importance of being well-prepared for a professional career. It also highlights the changing landscape of college basketball, where players have more options and flexibility due to the introduction of name, image, and likeness (NIL) deals and the transfer portal.

For Northwestern, Barnhizer's return is a significant boost. His presence on the court will be crucial as the team looks to build on its recent success. His leadership and experience will be invaluable, especially as the team integrates new players and navigates the challenges of the Big Ten Conference. Off the court, Barnhizer's decision to stay and complete his degree reinforces the university's commitment to academic excellence and the holistic development of its student-athletes.

In conclusion, Brooks Barnhizer's decision to return to Northwestern for another season is a multifaceted one, driven by his desire to further develop his basketball skills, complete his education, and help his team achieve more success. His choice reflects a thoughtful approach to his career and a commitment to his personal and professional growth. As he prepares for another season with the Wildcats, Barnhizer's journey will be one to watch, both for his on-court performance and the impact he continues to have on the Northwestern basketball program and the broader college basketball landscape.

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[ https://sports.yahoo.com/article/why-northwestern-basketball-alum-brooks-230751812.html ]