The independent student newspaper of Northeastern University

The Huntington News

The independent student newspaper of Northeastern University

The Huntington News

The independent student newspaper of Northeastern University

The Huntington News

The move from Cabot to Matthews has not quieted the loyal men’s basketball fans

By Chris Estrada

Sophomore forward Shawn James enjoys making Husky fans happy, something he does with ease by sending the shots of opponents back with one hand. To the Husky faithful this is a sight to behold, an emotion evident by the constant “SWAT! SWAT! SWAT!” chants in the cavernous Matthews Arena.

Yep. That’s the Swat Team.

The Shawn James Swat Team has existed since James put on the Husky uniform last year. Since James is the same year as many of the founding Swat Team members, they have formed a connection in the past two years. And as James has grown to become college basketball’s top shotblocker at 6.1 per game, the Swat Team has grown more boisterous and supportive of the Husky’s efforts.

“I started noticing it at the Detroit game last year,” James said. “It was the greatest feeling knowing that they came out to support the team. To have a group that’s there to make noise and cheer and affect the other team, it makes a big difference.”

James has become close friends with many in the group. The Swat Team isn’t just there to watch a basketball game; they are watching their friend.

“I know a whole bunch of them,” James said. “Hassan (Harris), Craig (Fletcher), Rick (Betancourt)

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