Tre Beard, an all-conference basketball player for Shawnee State University, has had quite the journey as a Bear, a journey full of determination, growth, patience, winning and humbling setbacks. Beard, a member of SSU’s 2021 NAIA National Championship team, is now eager to make a return to the title game, but this time with a larger role. Now a graduate student in his fifth year at SSU, Beard is back for his last season after earning all-conference honors last year. Beard’s game has steadily developed since the first day he stepped on campus. He has gone from barely seeing any playing time as a freshman to being a key piece of this year’s squad.
Beard appeared in 23 games his freshman season, averaging 2.4 points per game with 56 total points. His sophomore season, he appeared in 30 games and averaged 4.1 points per game. In his junior year, Beard made a huge leap, playing in 30 games, averaging 12.7 points per game, and shooting an impressive 50% from the 3-point line. Known as an elite shooter from deep with a fairly tight handle, Beard truly thrives behind the arc. Arguably one of the best shooters in all of NAIA basketball, his performance earned him all-conference and most-improved honors.
Reflecting on his journey, Beard acknowledged how much his game has evolved since his early days.
“My game has evolved a lot,” he said. “I feel I have gotten stronger, which leads to being more confident on the court. And about confidence, I believe that plays a huge part. My first couple years I didn’t play much; I was kind of in the learning role. I was fortunate enough to win a national championship my freshman year, which was a dream come true. I feel my preparation is big in how I play.”
Beard’s experience as part of the 2021 national championship team has shaped his understanding of what it takes to win at the highest levels of NAIA basketball. When asked about the experiences and lessons he learned and how he’s sharing them with younger players who haven’t been that far, Beard emphasized the importance of leadership.
“I feel leadership plays a big part in that,” Beard said. “This year, I have to be a leader while also making sure I stay on my p’s and q’s. I think it’s a role I will excel in, but just being the only guy that’s been here for five years, I feel it’s my duty to do so.”
As Shawnee State pursues another national championship, the Bears will rely on the leadership and experience of players like Beard. His progression from a freshman role player to a key factor on opposing teams’ scouting reports shows the dedication he put toward his efforts to get better and put his team in a better situation. Beard’s experience will play a vital role in helping him achieve personal goals and team goals. The journey back is never easy, but with talent and experience and leaders like Beard, the Bears are well-equipped to face it.
