image via UVI Basketball
Courtesy of UVI Athletics
University of the Virgin Islands men’s basketball standout Brandon Rasmussen has been named a recipient of the Historically Black Colleges and Universities Athletic Conference (HBCUAC) Association of Student Athletes Champion of Character Award, recognizing his exemplary leadership, integrity, and impact both on and off the court.
Rasmussen received his recognition on the court prior to the Buccaneers’ HBCUAC tournament matchup with Fisk University. The award recognizes one student-athlete from each team who exemplifies the high character qualities outlined by the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA). The Champions of Character initiative, an NAIA program, focuses on developing student-athletes with strong character, emphasizing core values such as Integrity, Respect, Responsibility, Leadership, and Sportsmanship.
Rasmussen, a graduate forward from St. Croix, United States Virgin Islands, stands at 6 feet 5 inches tall and is a former NCAA Division I player at the University of North Florida in Jacksonville, Florida, where he played for three years before returning home for his final season of eligibility to compete for his hometown university. Additionally, Rasmussen has represented the Virgin Islands on a national stage as a member of the Senior men’s national team and the U17 national team. During his tenure with the Buccaneers, he was the leading scorer and also led the team in rebounds, steals, and blocks.
“Brandon is the kind of young man you want on your roster,” stated Buccaneer Head Coach Kevin Sheppard. “He is coachable, respectful, disciplined, and team-oriented. A consummate leader and a great representation of the ideal type of student-athlete that we want at UVI. We are looking to recruit more athletes with character like him because it’s not just about what you do on the court, but who you are as a human being as well.”
Although Rasmussen has played his last collegiate basketball game, he will continue his academic journey at the University of the Virgin Islands, pursuing a Master of Business Administration degree.
