By: Norma Camacho
KENNESAW, Ga. - Graduate transfer Andre Weir is ready to begin his first season with Kennesaw State men's basketball after a challenging year at Florida Gulf Coast, where a labrum injury sidelined him just six games into the season. Now, Weir is eager to make his mark in Conference USA with a fresh perspective on basketball based on resiliency and a greater emphasis on personal development.
Weir's move to KSU was significantly impacted by Head Coach Antoine Pettway, whose energy and strategic approach had an instant effect. "Coach Pettway recruited me hard and made my decision easy," Weir said. "He's a young guy coming from a winning program at Alabama, so he knows what it takes to succeed." Weir had the chance to see Coach Pettway up close last season, as FGCU took on the Owls twice in KSU's final season in the Atlantic Sun.
Since joining the Owls, Weir has quickly adapted to the team's close-knit environment. "It's like brotherly love all around. We all love each other," he said. "It's like a big family." For Weir, the welcoming atmosphere has fueled his commitment to the team, where he's aiming to bring "consistency on and off the court" every day and states, "I just want to be the same guy every day, especially for the younger guys."
The injury that kept him out last season provided a new perspective on the game and an even stronger work ethic. "It's made me work ten times harder just because of how much I missed it when I couldn't play," he admitted. The redshirt season allowed him to focus not only on his shoulder but also on improving academically and developing healthier habits to ensure he could come back stronger.
Now, Weir feels the difference in his performance. "I think I've gotten a little more athletic since coming here," he said. "We run a lot in practice, and my body is lighter than it's ever been."
Despite the intensity of being a student-athlete while attending graduate school, Weir is confident in balancing his commitments with the help of Maggie Tucker, KSU's academic advisor. "She's super helpful in keeping me organized and on top of everything," he said, recognizing the importance of consistency and time management. Although he's already earned his undergraduate degree, maintaining strong academic performance remains a priority at KSU.
Weir has one clear goal for the season: "I want to win a championship in Conference USA." He remained straightforward when asked if there was anything else, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to making history at KSU. "That's what I want to focus on," he said with quiet determination.
As he enters his first season with KSU, Weir's personality comes through in his approach to both the game and life off the court. Without any superstitions or pre-game rituals, he's all about consistency and simplicity, embracing a grounded approach to a sport he's played since he could walk. Although he misses the beaches of his home state of Florida and the familiarity of home, Weir has found a new sense of belonging in Kennesaw and is ready to give his all for the Owls this season.
