Coming Home to PBA

Don't Call it a Comeback

Fun fact — when we take to the court for the first time at home this season, I will actually be the only player on our team who has played in front of fans inside Pinnacle Bank Arena. That's right, none of my teammates have had the privilege of experiencing Husker Nation up close.

But to an extent, neither did I. 

When I was playing at PBA a few years back, I was on the other side, playing for Western Illinois against the Huskers.

I still have some not-so-fond memories of that game. 

I played terribly and fouled out. 

I remember the Husker faithful giving me a lot to chew on. They were so loud! When I sat down on the bench, it felt like they were breathing down on me. 

I was frustrated, but I also remember thinking how insane the energy was inside the arena. It was not an easy place to play in and try to get a win on the road. 

Nothing Was the Same

Last season, last year really, was unlike anything I've ever experienced. 

I wouldn't say all the games felt like road games, but the feeling was just off. I'm not used to playing in an empty arena and having to remind myself, "Hey, this is a big conference matchup," you know? You got used to it as the season went along, but it still felt alien even near the end of it. 

There were so many moments last season where I wished fans would have been present. 

One particular game that stood out in that respect was the game against Georgia Tech. 

We were playing some great ball. Man, I was playing some great ball, too.

I hit like six threes, and the team was running on all cylinders. 

We weren't able to pull off the victory, and lost 75-64. I give Georgia Tech a lot of credit, but after the game, I couldn't help but think how that could've gone if we had fans.

It was a home game, and when I started hitting those threes, PBA would've been rocking — the crowd would've been loud, and momentum might have swung enough our way to turn the tide. 

But in general, after everything we've gone through, I think we all have a greater appreciation for the fans. They really are a key part of that home-court advantage. No doubt. 

And I think we've seen it all before, right? 

A team starts playing well, the crowd gets into it, and the next thing you know, the opposing team gets nervous. Starts creating turnovers. And suddenly, the home team has all the confidence in the world. The road team is left gasping for air, calling timeouts, and just trying to stay calm. 

We were missing that last season, and after a year without it, I can't wait to hear the arena rocking again. It's going to be unreal in there!