Senior James Stukes, a forward for the St. Edward’s men’s basketball team, has enjoyed a career year on the Hilltop, averaging 16.1 points and 4.6 rebounds per game while shooting 53% from the field.

Stukes has hit his stride this year after transferring from Northeastern College in Sterling, Colorado in 2012. During his two seasons for Northeastern, he averaged 10.4 points and 3.9 rebounds while shooting 42% from the field in 59 games. Stukes is a Harlem, New York native and was raised in a 6-child family.

Rashad White: What is your major?

James Stukes: I am a communications major.

RW: What are your plans after graduation?

JS: Right now, I plan to play basketball professionally. But if I do not make it into any leagues, I would love to be a sports journalist.

RW: Why did you decide to transfer to St. Edward’s?

JS: I transferred here because Austin is a great city and St. Edward’s provides a great educational opportunity. The weather here is nice, plus I wanted to be a part of changing the basketball program.

RW: What is your outlook on the season so far?

JS: We have been on a roller coaster ride this season. It has been filled with plenty of ups and downs. Some of our better players are younger, so it has taken them some time to adjust to speed of college players. But eventually, we will get it.

RW: What is the main difference between playing basketball here in Texas compared to Colorado?

JS: Honestly, the altitude is the only major difference. The altitude affected my playing style when I was playing in Colorado. Trust me, it is much easier to play here. It took some time to adjust to the St. Edward’s playing style, but that is normal when you join a new team.

RW: Is there anything you want to tell the St. Edward’s community?

JS: Come out and support the basketball team and the other athletic programs here on campus because we really need it.

To finish off the season, the Hilltoppers have five more games, including three straight at home from Feb. 15-22 before hitting the road for the final two. If the men win out, they will have a record of 15-11 and have a shot at postseason play in the Heartland Conference Tournament in March.