NICK MERSCH
SPORTS EDITOR
Sharpshooter Sean Hickey is a junior accounting major from North Olmsted, Ohio, playing basketball for the Franciscan University of Steubenville Barons.
Basketball has always played a big role in Hickey’s life as it was part of his decision to come to Franciscan, and his experience with the sport shaped him as a young adult.
“Ever since I can remember, I played basketball,” said Hickey.
Hickey grew up attending skills camps at a local high school, and that nurtured his love for the sport.
“That’s what put me ahead was those skills camps. It gave me an edge over my competitors in grade school,” said Hickey.
In his third year of collegiate basketball, Hickey has become one of the more well-known players in the conference, scoring 15 points per game last season and earning second team all-conference honors. In order to get to this point, Hickey has honed his game to have an edge on the court.
“I just try to play really hard. I want to make the right play every time, whether it’s me or someone else scoring,” Hickey said.
Reminiscing about his favorite sports memory, which is from just last year, he said, “The Greensburg buzzer beater has got to be my favorite. I swung the ball to Noce, and I know he saw me out of the corner of his eye as he drove. He passed me the ball, and I got a clean look and knocked it down. The rest was just chaos.”
The team went on to post-season play because of Hickey’s game winner in the previous year. This season, the Barons are hoping to build on last year’s success.
“Our goal is to win the conference. This year, it’s definitely possible, and as long as we’re playing our best basketball by February, then we can do it,” he said.
His basketball family in Steubenville is about 22 people, but his family in North Olmsted comes close in size. His seven siblings plus his parents are 10 strong when together.
Sean said his mother has set an example for him and his work ethic in life and his faith.
“She inspires me,” he said. “She’s super selfless and always lives her life the way she’s supposed to. She’s incredible.”
Catch Sean Hickey and the Barons taking on Hilbert College at home Saturday, Dec. 7.