Barker, a Corner Brook native who starred on the provincial high school basketball scene before graduating from Corner Brook High, was named to the Atlantic University Sport varsity men’s basketball all-rookie team last season.
The 19-year-old, six-foot-four forward worked hard during the summer months to bring his game to another level and has enjoyed the early workouts with his teammates as the Sea-Hawks prepare for opening weekend in early November.
“I just want to keep getting better every time I play,” Barker said Tuesday from St. John’s where he’s getting settled into his second year of nursing studies at Memorial.
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Barker believes he can make a valuable contribution to a team that has welcomed some new talent to the mix as long as he approaches the hardwood with more confidence and aggression.
“Take more shots and look to make plays myself rather than wait for other people to do it,” he said.
Barker helped the Sea-Hawks earn an AUS playoff berth last season, but the quest for a crown was short-lived as Barker and company were eliminated from championship contention in a 73-65 loss to the Acadia Axemen.
A deeper run is something he wants to see materialize this winter and he believes the team is better equipped to make some noise because several experienced players will be back in the fold to lead the charge.
“We’re definitely looking to go further in the playoffs this year,” he said.
