Player Profile: Eli Buchanan
Junior and 6'2" forward, Eli Buchanan, has been leading the Hawken Boys Basketball team all season. Buchanan is an athletic finisher at the rim been starting on varsity since his sophomore year. While the team faces adversity with a 2-10 record, Buchanan believes they have a bright future coming up. The team only has two seniors: Jack Totte and Joey Coviello. While both of the seniors greatly contribute to the team, it is difficult going against other very experienced teams. Buchanan believes, “With the two seniors on our team, we are still trying to figure things out. We are navigating this year. The underclassman are promising and our new coaches will definitely be able to develop our program and players.” The new coaches are Coach Josh Nugent, Coach Bratten, and Coach Salatta. Buchanan believes that “the new coaches are phenomenal! All of them have had experience with amazing basketball programs and definitely know what they are doing!” Buchanan believes that the new coaches have really helped his game. The team continues its upward trajectory as the core of sophomores and juniors continue to grow in experience. His goal for this season is to get conference player of the year. However, Buchanan also has team goals. With a new staff of coaches and talented underclassman, Buchanan hopes that “we can build a strong basketball culture at Hawken. I want to create a legacy that carries on for years ahead of us.” Buchanan loves playing basketball at Hawken because of “his teammates. We are always there for each for each other. On and off the court.” Buchanan wants to thrive with his teammates and create a successful basketball culture at Hawken. He leads by his work ethic and determination. During the off-season, Buchanan continues to work on his conditioning, shooting, and a lot of skill work. He also plays club for Hardwork Basketball Club and hopes to play basketball at the Division I level.