The best way to close out a season isn't just with stats—it’s with stories. We sat down with some of Justice University’s finest—Abi, Sam, Erica, Zoey, Dylan, and Jaret—for our season finale of The Next Play. Hearing about their journeys, their grit, and what’s next on their horizon reminds us why the JU community is so special. These athletes aren’t just playing a game; they’re preparing for the next big play in life. From the sand to the diamond and everywhere in between, these Justice University athletes represent the heart of the Lions. You don’t want to miss this finale—hit the link in our bio to listen!

While the men’s basketball season ended on a heartbreaking "in-and-out" shot that would have sent them to the national tournament, Prof G notes that the team’s ability to turn a tough season start into a deep conference run is a victory in itself.

Matt Shively candidly describes going through the actual stages of grief—denial, bargaining, and depression—after the basketball loss. They suggest that:

• It is healthy to acknowledge the pain and the emotional investment.

• Disappointment is a sign that you cared enough to put in the work.

  Reframing via Faith

  Matt quotes Matthew 16:33: "In this world you will face troubles of many kinds, but take heart, I have overcome the world." He explains that:

  • Disappointment is a universal part of the human experience.

  • In the "grand scheme of life," a lost match is minor, but the character built during that hardship is what remains.

    Responding vs. Reacting

    Prof G highlights the critical difference between reacting (instinctive, emotional, often leading to technical fouls or regrets) and responding (taking time to think and move forward with purpose). Disappointment, they argue, provides the "fodder" or fuel for the next season.

    Learning from New Programs

    They point to the Women’s Sand Volleyball team, which is a brand-new program. Disappointment there is framed as a learning curve. Instead of dwelling on losses, they focus on the "Senior Salutes" and the fact that athletes are "buying in" to a future they won't necessarily see the end of.

    "The buzzer sounds, the sand is brushed off, but the character you built here at Justice is your real jersey for life."

    The "Next Play" for these seniors isn't just another game—it's the workforce, family, and faith-led leadership.

The spring season is officially in full swing, and Prof G and Shively are back on the mics to break down a massive week for the program. From conference dominance on the diamond to high-stakes postseason runs on the hardwood, there’s a lot to celebrate.

In This Episode:

• Hoops Hype: Basketball is officially firing on all cylinders as the crew prepares for the Regional Championship. We look at the momentum carrying them into the title hunt.

• Diamond Dominance: A huge shoutout to Baseball for securing their first conference sweep of the season. We dive into the pitching and plate discipline that made the difference.

• Pitch & Sand: * Soccer is looking fresh with a wave of new talent hitting the pitch.

• Women’s Sand Volleyball adds to the win column with a gritty performance.

• The "Next Play" Mentality: How these teams are transitioning from regular-season success to "win or go home" postseason stakes.

Don’t miss an update—hit play and stay locked in!