SARATOGA SPRINGS — Saratoga Central Catholic senior Justin Duscher officially signed his college commitment on Monday, stating his intent to play Division III college basketball at Northern Vermont University-Lyndon.
Duscher said he was attracted to Lyndon’s small-school atmosphere and coaching staff, saying it is “a great opportunity.”
“It’s always been a dream for me to play in college, and it’s something that I’ve worked for years and years,” said Duscher. “Coach (David) Pasiak, he gave me a great opportunity to come in. They have really good team-oriented guys on the squad that I really liked.”
“Justin has a very good feel for the game,” said NVU-Lyndon head coach David Pasiak in a press release. “He’s an unselfish passer who has a knack for getting the ball to his teammates on time and on target. He is also a good perimeter shooter, and he takes pride in doing the little things well. He gives us additional depth and versatility on the perimeter. Justin is going to develop into a very good player here as he fills out and adjusts to the college game. Above all of that, he’s extremely team-oriented and positive, and will lift our team on the court and off.”
Duscher averaged 12 points, 5 rebounds, 3.5 assists, and 1.4 steals per game during his senior year, according to SCC head coach Shea Bromirski. Duscher was the Saints’ team MVP and was named to the Wasaren League Exceptional Senior All-Star team the release says.
Duscher, who transferred to Saratoga Catholic from Saratoga Springs High School prior to his junior year, thanked his coaches and teammates for their support.
“The whole community’s really supportive in general, and that really helped me see success here,” Duscher said. “Coach Bromirski, he’s been a real big help for me.”
Bromirski said Duscher is a “really talented player,” and emphasized his leadership abilities.
“(Justin) can shoot, he can pass. He guards multiple positions,” said Bromirski. “We were pretty small, so we asked him to guard some pretty big guys. He did that pretty well for us. He adds a ton of value with his leadership, and his positive attitude. He’s a great young man. We’re lucky to have him, and we’re going to miss him.”
Duscher said he first began working with Bromirski at a young age through Dags Basketball, saying it was “really nice” to share his final high school season with the coach.
“It was a surprise when he came over here, and now it’s really cool to be able to share this experience with him,” Duscher said.
“He had been here an extra year than me, so he was kind of helping me get my feet wet,” Bromirski added. “I’ve known Justin for a long time, so I leaned on him to be a leader. The kids respect him. He’s a great kid. It’s not just basketball practice, he’s like that every day.”
Duscher said his experience at Saratoga Catholic was “great,” and said he is excited for his college experience.
“I was hoping that he would have a chance (to play in college), and I think he’ll make the most of it for sure,” said Bromirski. “He knows what it takes to be a part of something bigger than himself.”
