May 11, 2013
Harris running with the Seawolves
Sonoma State University wanted Mike Harris when he was coming out of Monte Vista High back in 2011 but missed. Two years later, the connection was made and Harris is now a member of the Seawolves.
Harris cast his post-high school lot with Cal Lutheran University down in southern California, posting an impressive 9.5 points and 5.3 rebounds per game numbers as a freshman. But he desired a different college experience so he came back home to Diablo Valley College (DVC). A team-leading 17.3 points and 6.8 boards later for the Vikings and Coach Steve Coccimiglio in 2012-13 and the recruiting process began again.
With strains of Sinatra's “The Second Time Around” in the background, Sonoma State renewed its interest and Harris said yes.
“It's a good fit and I really like the coach [Pat Fuscaldo],” Harris said of his decision to remain regional. “He's intense, plus I like the way he handles his team inside and outside the locker room.” Additionally, Harris is impressed with Sonoma State's new strength and conditioning coach.
As someone heavily involved in Harris' recruitment, Sonoma State Associate Head Coach Rich Shayewitz offered, “Mike can play multiple positions and we will maximize what he does best. He's a good shooter with the offensive tools to succeed against bigger and smaller opponents.”
So what's the situation Harris will enter?
First Team All California Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) honorees Will Olsem and Patrick Scott are graduating from the Sonoma State program. That's 15.6 and 14.5 points respectively a contest gone for next season plus Scott shot 48% overall, 42% from long distance while Olsem finished at 48% and 45%.
Sounds like a points producer is just who and what is needed.
Asked what fans will see from him come next November, Harris said, “whatever they need. I'll be a leader on and off the court, a team player and I like to work hard.”
He is planning to major in kinesiology with a plan to work in the healthcare industry but not as a trainer.
Cal State University East Bay, Cal State Stanislaus, Chico State, Humboldt State and San Francisco are the northern California members of the CCAA so family and friends will have multiple opportunities to watch Harris in action.