“You always have to work hard- nothing is ever given to you. It’s always earned. You have to put in the time if you want to be successful, and work hard every single day,” said Shawn Montague (’20).
For starting forward and co-captain Montague, this advice is something to live by every day that not only pertains to basketball, but to life.
Hailing from Yorktown Heights, New York, Montague grew up playing baseball. He was immensely inspired by his father to enter the world of competitive basketball beginning in his eighth-grade year. His family has had a large impact on the continuation of his career as well.
“Every day I just try to be the best person I can be because that’s what [my family] want me to do. They’re such great role models and I’m so glad to have them in my life.”
After graduating from high school, Montague began his collegiate basketball career at Sacred Heart University in Connecticut. He spent one year there and then transferred to Lee College in Texas. Connections with Head Coach Jack Perri then brought Montague to center court at the Stan Spirou Field House, where he transferred in as a junior.
Montague’s talent, hard work and leadership skills have earned him some of the highest statistics for the 2019-2020 SNHU Men’s Basketball season, including four SNHU Athlete of the Week accolades for the months of January and February.
Montague shot an average of 14.7 points per game and averaged about 32 minutes per game. In just two years with the Penmen, Montague has racked up a total of 718 points. The team finished 16-12 overall and 9-10 in their conference and averaged 80.1 points per game.
“We just have to play each game like we know we’re going to win. Be confident in ourselves, our team, and our game plan. Prepare the same way; always have the same energy and buy into each other and be selfless,” said Montague.
To go along with their impressive statistics, the men’s basketball team’s chemistry is unlike any other. They are constantly seen together, whether eating dinner or at the gym. Montague states that his teammates have had a large impact on his career and that he always tries to be a positive role model and treat everyone with respect.
“It’s a big part of who I am. I have to set a good example for my younger teammates. I just hope to set a good example and a good mood around our team and develop some chemistry. We have a great group of guys and I just like to be the better person of myself every single day so they can see why and hopefully they can do the same,” said Montague.
From taking pictures after games with young kids to nailing an outrageous dunk from the foul line, Montague’s humble attitude and strong character make him a valuable teammate.
“It’s obvious how selfless and genuine Shawn is,” said John Champa, the manager of the men’s basketball team, “He doesn’t gloat on the court; he does his job and when he’s done with that, he does his next one. Shawn tries his hardest on every play. He goes for every rebound and is always aggressive.”
One of Montague’s long-term goals after his graduation this spring is to further his basketball career beyond college.
“Hopefully I get the chance to play overseas after this season. My coach is going to help me find an agent and hopefully, I’ll get to play. Wherever I get the chance to play, that will be a blessing,” said Montague.
