By Trisha Forney
Everyone deserves their spot in the limelight, and for Craig Olson, a 6’ 150 lb. sophomore guard, now is his time.
IVCC men’s basketball coach Mike Riley said, "Craig is giving us pretty much a great season."
Olson is shooting 47 percent from the three-point line and 85 percent from the free-throw line.
"His three-point shooting ability and defense are his greatest strengths," the coach said.
Olson is also averaging 11.3 points a game and 4.6 rebounds and assists.
"We feel comfortable giving him the big shots and we know he’ll get it done," Riley said. "He will always step up when he’s needed."
Olson acknowledges the growth he’s made in one year: "Compared to last year, I have pretty much improved," he said.
Compared to last year, the Apaches are also having a better season.
"We are a more balanced and better team," Olson said. "We’re winning more games, but I still wish we could be at a better standing."
Riley credits some of the team’s improvement to Olson, in his role as a team captain.
"He has a tremendous attitude," the coach said. "He’s always positive. He has a winning, positive attitude and shows a lot of effort and energy. He leads by example. He’s been a great leader for us last year and this year."
Olson came to IVCC from Hall High School where he played basketball all four years. But basketball hasn’t always been his idea of fun.
"I didn’t like basketball until about fifth grade," Olson said. "We had intramurals and I found out I like it."
As for basketball in Olson’s future, he said, "It’s whatever the future brings." He has received letters from Division II North Carolina Wingate University, St. Ambrose University, Missouri Valley College, and Iowa Wesleyan.
At this time, Olson is also undecided about his major.
"Every time I think I find one (major) I like, I find out later I don’t like it," he said. "I’m thinking something with business."
Riley’s final observations about the sophomore guard: "Craig has been fun to coach. He’s not going to quit. He’ll give his all."