After graduating high school, Conner Schipper thought he’d left basketball behind for good. But just two years later, he’s broken multiple UOlivet basketball records and is taking his game to an international stage.
Conner, a Holland, Michigan, native, met Sam Hargraves, head men’s basketball coach at UOlivet, while he was a high school basketball player. “The one person that showed they truly wanted me was Coach Sam Hargraves. He would come to as many games as possible, check up with me, and was always just super honest and genuine,” said Conner.
When it came time to make his college choice, Connor decided to go in a different direction and attended another institution. He soon realized that wasn’t the path he wanted to take. He said, “Coach Hargraves was still texting me from time to time. It eventually hit me that I really missed basketball. I asked Coach what he thought about me transferring in, and he loved it. We set up all the admissions over Christmas break and got me to Olivet as soon as possible.”
That decision was life-changing for Conner. In his first year as a Comet, he racked up impressive numbers, including records for the most rebounds in a game, 25, and the single-season blocks, 73, and a triple-double with 11 points, 10 rebounds and 11 blocks. In addition, he received an All-MIAA Second Team award.
Taking his game global
This summer, Conner had the opportunity to play basketball overseas through Global Sports Academy. He played five games in Amsterdam, Antwerp, Brussels, Brugge and Haslett on his trip to the Netherlands and Belgium. “Olivet prepared me for going overseas by always believing in me. Everyone on the team has my back and would really push me to be the best. Without their support, I would not be as confident in my game and maybe not even in a position to play overseas,” he said.
Playing internationally influenced Conner’s approach to the game. “Overseas we played with all ages. Some guys were 17, and others were 30 years old. It was very physical and very quick-paced. I began to see the game way faster and it opened my eyes to a lot of different reads in certain situations. I was also playing with guys from all divisions. We had guys from Division III, Division II, and Division I. I learned something from every single player. Little adjustments on a pick and roll, or when to cut. I learned a lot, and it will stay with me throughout my future basketball career.”
Growth on and off the court
For the upcoming basketball season at UOlivet, Connor looks forward to continuing to grow personally and with his teammates. He said, “My main goal is to obviously win. Our team at Olivet deserves to win. Regardless of me going overseas, everyone on our team has put work in and we are looking to make noise this upcoming season. My main goal this season is to continue to grow as a team and do something special with my guys.”
As much as basketball has been central to Conner’s journey, his time at UOlivet has also been transformative personally, shaping him both on and off the court. “Transferring into Olivet, I wasn’t very social and out there. After getting close with the team and putting myself out there in the community I have grown tremendously. Being involved in this community really shaped me into a great person. I am now more outgoing, confident, sympathetic, and encouraging, and there is plenty more I can say. The Olivet community is the real deal,” he said.
Conner’s coaches have also played a huge role in his growth, he said, “I am very close with my coaches. They will always have my back. Knowing that my coach knew I would be okay to play overseas says it all. He believed I could compete over in Belgium and that gave me all the confidence in the world. My coaches are truly the main reason I am confident and in the position I am.”
Coach Sam Hargraves said, “It’s been incredible in such a short time to see his progression not just as a player but also as a leader and teammate overall. His genuine personality and sense of humor really brings everyone together. I think he’s the glue to the team in so many ways.”
Ready to pay (and play) it forward
It’s Conner’s goal to become a coach after graduating, and that’s why he’s majoring in sports recreation and management. “I have always been good at guiding or leading and I feel I could make a pretty good coach. I am preparing myself for the future by networking and getting to know the game the best I can,” said Conner.
As Conner reflects on his journey so far, he quickly acknowledges the people who have supported him. “I just want to shout out my mother for always being by my side and making me the man I am today. I could not do this without her,” he shared. Conner is also grateful to Coach Roy from Rider University, saying, “I want to thank him for giving me the opportunity to play overseas on behalf of the Global Sports Academy.” Finally, he expressed his appreciation for the friendships and lessons learned during his time in Belgium, “Shout out to all my guys I met and played with on our tour in Belgium. I learned great things from them and gained some true friendships,” he said.
As he prepares for the next chapter, Conner remains focused on what matters most: his passion for the game and the people who have helped shape his journey.
Learn more about The University of Olivet by contacting the Office of Admission at Admissions@UOlivet.edu or 269-749-7635.