NSU athletics celebrates a night of champions

By Madison Kasper •

Nova Southeastern University hosted a night full of recognition during the men’s basketball home opener against the University of Alabama in Huntsville on Nov. 14.

Before the game started, Jim Crutchfield, head men’s basketball coach, was honored with the court being dedicated in his name.

The court at Rick Case Arena will now be called Crutchfield Court.

Crutchfield has the highest winning percentage among coaches at any level in NCAA history and has coached the team to two national championships in the past three seasons.

Crutchfield said he doesn’t necessarily strive to leave a legacy but instead does his best and if it is recognized, he appreciates it.

He said he felt the energy from the NSU community even though the game was stressful for him.

“I loved the crowd tonight.

It was just unbelievable to have that kind of support from the university,” Crutchfield said.

“You try and enjoy these types of moments against another really good team, a big night for myself and my family, I enjoyed it and thought they played pretty well.”

At halftime, the NSU women’s swim team received its national championship rings from its win last season.

It has won three consecutive NCAA Division II national championships.

Maya Esparza, senior sports management major, said it was really special to see the other athletic programs and the whole community recognizing and supporting them.

She credits the NSU community as the team’s motivation to succeed.

“It gives us a reason why we are swimming.

We want to bring home a championship for our team but especially for the school,” Esparza said.

“It’s a lot of our why, the Shark family is really supportive.”

The night ended with the men’s basketball team beating the University of Alabama in Huntsville 87-79, keeping its 84 consecutive home game winning streak alive