A New Mindset, Attitude & Approach

As the 2016-17 George Mason men’s basketball team continues its journey under Dave Paulsen in his second year, the mindset, attitude and approach of the team appears to be shifting in a positive manner. For a team a couple years removed from having no true identity, no passion, or energy for majority of their season, a clear mindset and attitude has seemed to have been established with the new look Patriots. With team now currently sitting at 7-3 after an impressive and dominating win against Penn State University at Bryce Jordan Arena, it is clear that this team is truly starting to become a team. Growing in confidence with each win, this is at team that is coming together as a unit. Rather than focusing on individualistic goals, this team appears to have a greater goal in mind and that is reaching greatness once more. Through 10 games thus far the approach night in and night out has been play together, play with effort, passion and energy. Seeing this thus far in the season has been a beautiful site to see, because one thing that you now know is that regardless of who the team is playing these four elements will be on display.

When talking to Sophomore Otis Livingston, Point Guard and team captain of the team he talked about this year’s team. He expressed his excitement for the team this year, stating that this team would be a lot different than last years. With a year under his belt, Otis’s biggest thing was learning how to take his game to the next level, while leading this team to new heights. Understanding that he is a true component and catalysts for how the team comes out and plays each night, Otis takes it upon himself to come out strong, playing both fast yet efficient. Approaching games with a lot more confidence has paid dividends not only for Otis, but for the entire team as a whole.

With a winning mindset now roaming around this Patriots team, George Mason basketball appears to be heading back in the direction of its glory days. A large part of this is due to the culture and atmosphere that coach Paulsen has created here at the university. Creating a culture is no easy task so for Paulsen to be able to establish this type of mindset in only his second year is huge. This does many things ultimately speeding up the process of turning this program around. With Paulsen continuing to lead the charge this team is set for years to come. Each and every victory from here on out will continue to move the train forward, helping Mason and coach Paulsen land more recruits, sponsorships and more.