Although it was a disappointing finish to the UNC Wilmington men’s basketball season against Drexel University in the quarterfinals of the CAA Tournament, there is always something to look forward to in next season. One of next year’s brightest, budding players is redshirt freshman Craig Ponder. Ponder was expected to play a major role this year before sustaining an ankle injury in practice at the beginning of the season.

When asked what the toughest part of the season has been for him, Ponder said, “Not being able to play…even if I wanted to, I couldn’t.”  He isn’t letting it get him down, though, as he is using his time off the court to ultimately help him when he gets back to playing. Ponder spends time watching film, boosting his “basketball IQ,” and learning about pacing and controlling a game during what would be his practice time. Due to his improving health, he has been able to start participating in underwater workouts and has even started ball handling and shooting drills in the gym.

The medical redshirt Ponder received this year gave him another year of eligibility to develop as a player. The Seahawks lacked a true point guard in his absence. Tanner Milson finished the season as the starting floor general with Freddie Jackson receiving backup minutes.

Although Ponder hasn’t been able to suit up with his teammates, he has been a huge supporter of team from the sidelines. He picked watching his teammates celebrate after capturing their first victory at Illinois State as his favorite moment this season.

Due to his growing skills on the court, his experience developing off the court and natural fit into coach Buzz Peterson’s system, Ponder appears to be a strong piece for UNCW’s future. “Be on the lookout for next year,” he said, speaking with excitement and anxiousness. “We will be looking to come back strong.”