Iona College men’s basketball point guard Schadrac Casimir walked off the court with a smile on his face and a full head of confidence as he prepared for his fourth season for the Gaels – a season that took a long road to get to.

Casimir made a name for himself during his freshman year, winning Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference Rookie of the Year. Casimir’s college career took a step in the wrong direction when he tore both sides of his hip and suffered a groin injury, which forced him to miss most of his second season.

“It was a long process,” Casimir said. “At first I wasn’t taking it well.”

Casimir’s injuries required multiple surgeries in a six-month span, which his family and teammates helped him get through.

“Being around my teammates, family and the right people, they kept me level headed and humble,” Casimir said.     

Casimir never questioned his ability to play again, but he was in disbelief that the injuries would result in missing the amount of time he did.

While Casimir was hurt, he watched the Gaels win a Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference Championship and earn a NCAA tournament bid in 2016. He played a lesser role in last year’s MAAC championship due to not being at full strength. However, Casimir was proud of his teammates accomplishments.

“Seeing my teammates win was the ultimate goal,” Casimir said. “I was really happy for my teammates.”

Casimir said it took a lot of working out to get his body back into playing shape, but more importantly he knew he had to take his time and not rush.

“I used to think coming in and working out would get everything back,” Casimir said. “But I just had to be patient and let my body rest.”

Casimir is ready for the season and knows the team is capable of doing well if they can play their style. He feels better than ever and is determined to get back to the way he is capable of playing.

“Individual goals are just to play my game,” Casimir said. “I know how hard I work, I know what I do when people aren’t looking and the hours I put in.”

According to Casimir, the injury turned out to be a good thing because he has an extra year of eligibility when he pursues a master’s degree.