BY Jason Piddington, Public Relations Writer-Athletics

The University of Wisconsin-Platteville men’s basketball team is off to an 8-0 start and is currently ranked #10 in the d3hoops.com national poll. Junior Justin Jarvensivu has provided strong play off the bench with his athleticism and work ethic.

“With the effort Justin puts in on and off the court, it is not a surprise to see him having this success,” head coach Jeff Gard said. Jarvensivu is averaging 6.8 points per a game, and 2.3 boards a game, while averaging 16.8 minutes per a game.

“His confidence in his ability to perform on a high level on game day is continuing to rise,” Gard said. Jarvensivu has an explosive first step and has the ability to spark the team with his jumping ability and highlight dunks. He is shooting 61.8% (21-34) from the field and scored a career high 11 points vs Concordia Chicago on Nov. 20.

“Every day he comes in with a smile on his face and wanting to get better, whether that be in practice, the weight room or in the classroom,” Gard said.  The 2017 Hatchet grad is majoring in Mathematics and was named to the Dean’s List his freshman and sophomore years.

The Pioneers take part in the LeTourneau Classic Dec. 27-28 in Belton, Texas. UW-Platteville opens conference play vs. UW-Stout on Jan. 4.