Belmont Bruins guard Nick Hopkins announced Thursday he is entering the transfer portal after four years in the program.
He has been a long-standing pillar of solidarity for the Bruins, and has often been someone who brings the team together, night in and night out, said former Bruins guard Garrett Suedekum.
“He’s such a great guy and great leader. He brought the best out of all of us since he was so good, and he was always fun to be around,” said Suedekum of Hopkins’ presence on the team last season.
He retains a final year of eligibility because he was a redshirt during the 2016-17 season at Belmont. Hopkins will transfer after a season that saw him average 5.6 points per game on 35 percent from the field.
In an Instagram post, Hopkins discussed how important his time at Belmont has been for his growth as a player — on and off the court.
“Belmont has become my home away from home and a place that has helped me develop into a man,” wrote Hopkins. “Belmont basketball will always hold a special place in my heart, that will never change. Thank you all for the love and support,”
Hopkin’s sights are now set on his 2020-21 basketball season.
“Understanding my goals and what I want to accomplish in my life, It feels like this decision is best for me, although it is an extremely difficult choice to make,” Hopkins wrote.
He played a crucial role off the bench on a Bruins team that finished first in the Ohio Valley Conference regular-season standings, with a record of 26-7 overall. That team went on to defeat Murray State in the OVC championship game in early March.
Hopkins’ season-high came against Boston College in the Bruins’ third game. He notched 15 points and three rebounds. He also recorded double-figure outings in big games against Lipscomb, Tennessee Tech and Jacksonville State.
His impact for the Bruins over the past four seasons can not be understated. And his leadership and presence on the floor will be missed in the program.
“We’re grateful for his contributions and we’re proud that he’s walking away with a Belmont degree,” wrote Casey Alexander in a statement to the Belmont Vision. “We wish him the absolute best as he seeks an opportunity to continue his studies while getting minutes on the floor.”
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This article written by Ian Kayanja.