Photo courtesy of Brophy Prep | Ian Burke ’18 works on his ball-handling during warmups of 2017-18 quarterfinals against Perry.
By Nicholas Williams ’21
THE ROUNDUP
Over the college basketball offseason, former Brophy Basketball player Ian Burke ’18 transferred to Portland State from Seattle University to continue pursuing his basketball career.
On June 8th, Burke announced via twitter his move to Portland State.
During his Brophy career, Burke was a three-year varsity player in which Brophy went to the playoffs all three of those years. His senior year, 2017-2018 season, he led the team to a 26-2 record.
He also was given numerous awards, including 6A Premier Region Player of the Year honors, 6A All-Conference first team and was named Sports360AZ all-academic first team.
The only current Brophy basketball player who was on the same team as Burke is senior Basil Ribakare ’20.
“Ian stood out to me mostly because of his work ethic and his heart, he had the biggest heart on the team, Ribakare said.
“Coach Hooten would often use Ian as an example of hard work. I have heard countless stories of Ian waiting outside the gym at six in the morning on a Saturday waiting for someone to open it for him,” Ribakare said.
Last season at Seattle University, Burke averaged 2 points, 1.5 rebounds, and 0.5 assists a game as a freshman, with a 40% three-point percentage.
“The difference between high school and collegiate basketball is huge,” Burke said.
Burke said that athletes are bigger, stronger and faster at the collegiate level.
He said that every division 1 collegiate basketball was the star player in high school, so it is hard to find a role in a college program.
Burke also said that in college, basketball turns into more of a business than a game. He described as both a blessing and a curse.
In order to prepare for the upcoming season, Burke has full access to the various amenities of body nutrition and recovery. This includes ice baths, massages, vitamins and protein shakes and yoga classes.
Prior to attending Portland State, Burke thought Seattle U was a great school, but it was not the right fit for him.
“Seattle U just wasn’t the right fit for me personally,” Burke said, “I’m incredibly grateful for my time there, but I think I ultimately made the right decision.”
“My transition to Portland State has been great. I am loving my new teammates, coaches and the style of play,” Burke said.
Burke also said the team’s main goal is to win the Big Sky Conference. They believe that it is a real possibility for them if they continue to work hard and get better every time they step on the court.
“Winning a conference championship earns you a spot in March Madness, which is what college basketball is all about,” Burke said.
Burke and Portland State will play against Northern Arizona University on January 25, 2020.
