Scorer ready to shine for Buccs

A proven scorer who does not shy away from defensive hustle, new Quadrio Earthmoving Geraldton Buccaneers import Gokul Natesan should play a pivotal role within head coach Ray Evans’ starting five in 2018.

The 196cm shooting guard played a starring role during his college tenure with Colorado School of Mines, with Natesan and his Oredigger teammates embarking on a memorable NCAA Division II tournament run during his senior year, which ended in an untimely 92-72 “Elite Eight” loss to Bellarmine.

But for now, his focus is to enjoy time in Geraldton playing basketball. “I’d never been to Australia before,” he said. “And it’s been very intriguing to come out here and experience a culture that is different but very highly regarded.

“I’ve heard many great things about people who’ve lived in Australia or visited Australia that it is a great country to check out.

“To be able to be here for quite a few months — it’s pretty cool because you actually get to experience a lifestyle and culture.”

When not making plays on court, Natesan shone in the classroom, as he majored in computer science. “In college, it was very hard to balance both — studying computer science and basketball, but it really prepared me for time-management skills and being able to better focus and prepare in both areas,” he said.

“And I think now with just focusing on basketball, I’ll have a lot more time to dedicate towards basketball.”

Natesan likes to squeeze in a half-hour nap in the hours leading up to a game, prior to his formal pre-game routine.

“And then when I wake up, I feel refreshed,” he said. “I like to get my blood flowing and break a sweat in the warm-ups so I’m feeling nice during the game.”

Prior to heading Down Under, Natesan was selected by the Canton Charge in the 2017 NBA G-League draft (pick 97), who are a feeder team for the Cleveland Cavaliers.