SSHS Athlete of the Week: Tim Gangadeen

One of the reasons the has an astonishing 15-1 overall record this season is because their isn't one superstar who dominates on the court, but a collection of hard-nosed players who can step in and lead when called upon.

Senior center Tim Gangadeen was called upon by Head Coach Gerry D'Angelo to step into a starting role when the team's leading scorer and rebounder, Ryan Spadaford, injuried his ankle and the senior has responded by playing some of the best basketball of his Cyclones career. He is currently second on the team in rebounds per game.

In a recent 57-55 win over New Hyde Park, Gangadeen scored 10 points, pulled down nine rebounds and blocked five shots. He also threw down two fast break dunks, which energized his team and proved he can be a dominating force.

"It's more of a mental focus as opposed to physical or skill," Gangadeen said when asked how he prepared to step in for his injured teammate. "With Spad and Coyle out, I just wanted to step up, play strong and help us get the No. 1 seed in the conference."

Though Gangadeen considers himself a jokester, when game time approaches, it's all business for the 6'5'' center. "I joke around a lot, but before the game starts, I get serious," he said. "I tell everyone to get serious so we win the game."

Gangadeen noted that he's improved his conditioning over the off season, which is something he struggled with last season. He has asthma and admitted that it was hard for him to stay on the court for long stretches last season. This year, however, Gangadeen is wracking up career highs in minutes played, averaging about 20-22 minutes a game.

"Timmy's got a good work ethic, he plugs away and has really stepped it up over the past two weeks," D'Angelo said. "He's found a way to push himself to a higher level and deal with his asthma."

D'Angelo added that Gangadeen took advantage of the situation and deserved to start every game since then.

The senior center also pushes himself academically. Gangadeen currently holds an 85 average and takes IB-level courses in every subject.

Gangadeen said he never wants to feel the way he did after last year's first-round loss to Great Neck North, so he's worked on his jump shot, post moves and other offensive facets of his game to help his team take that next step.

When asked how it felt that D'Angelo looked to him to lead when Spadaford got injured, he said that type of confidence his coach has in him is all he wants as a player. "It's a very satisfying feeling," he said. "If I can make a difference, it definitely makes me feel good."