Howe Sound native Austin Penrose will suit up for Pete Guarasci’s men’s basketball squad at UBC Okanagan this coming fall.
The 6-foot-6, 195-pound forward is the latest addition to the program’s development as the Heat continues to try and pair a strong frontcourt with its excellent backcourt strength.
Penrose likes to function more like a stretch four, facing up to the hoop for his favourite midrange jumpers or to make a quick move to finish cleanly at the rim. Coming out of Sentinel Secondary, Penrose was a first-team all-star at the Howe Sound playoffs and a first-team league all-star.
A nightly double-double threat, he once put up a monster 26-point, 25-rebound and nine assist night. He has been a former member of Team B.C. and attendee of the Vancity Basketball Academy.
Despite his offensive prowess, Penrose hopes to contribute a lot to the defensive culture that coach Guarasci has instilled amongst his ranks. “My strengths on the court are good defense and being able to be coached very efficiently,” Penrose said. He thought his previous visit at the Heat ID camp made a good impression as well, citing his level of play and great work ethic as contributing factors.
A keen student in life and in the game, Penrose is excited about taking his next steps academically and athletically at UBC’s Okanagan institution.
“I know the jump from high school basketball to university basketball is a big deal,” he said, acknowledging the uphill journey he has before him, “but I feel like with the help of my teammates and coaches I will be able to make a good transition to UBCO and university level competition.”
Penrose has heard “great things” about the school’s management program, and will pursue his education therein. Despite being so far from home, he is excited about that aspect of the opportunity as well, calling it a “part of the university experience.”
Austin is the fifth player brought in this fall that will stand over 6-foot-4.
Joining Austin on the front line are: Ryan Morck (6-9 F, Airdrie), Dean Johnston (6-7 F, Port Coquitlam), and Buzz Truss (6-4 G/F, Kelowna). Cam Servatius (6-4 G, Chilliwack) is the fifth player signed who is 6’4” or better, yet Cam profiles more to a guard position than forward; Aldrich Berrios (6-0 PG/SG, Vancouver) is the other backcourt recruit.
