Coach Niko Panousis

“It is amazing how much can be accomplished if no one cares who gets the credit.”

Congratulations to all! #2026

Every year during Commencement, we like to highlight some of our outstanding graduates. These students are recommended by their peers, faculty and staff across campus.

From a public affairs student ready to make a difference in Gary, to someone who transitioned from a shy freshman to a public relations professional. From a teacher getting his degree after starting nearly two decades ago, to a business professional who found her calling at IU Northwest.

Check out some of the amazing graduates story from the Class of 2026: https://northwest.iu.edu/commencement/student-stories/index.html

Class of 2026: Inspiring others through math, nearly 20 years later IU Northwest education graduate set to teach the same class that inspired him

’m incredibly grateful to Indiana University Northwest for taking the time to share and highlight my journey. It means a great deal to have my story recognized by an institution that has given me so much on the court and in the classroom.

I’m forever grateful for the memories I’ve made there and proud to be an IU Northwest alumnus. My time at the university helped shape who I am today, and those connections made on the court and in the classroom will always stay with me.

I’d also like to extend a sincere thank you to Dr. Mark Sperling and his faculty for their guidance, support, and encouragement throughout this process. Their help has truly made a difference, and I’m deeply appreciative.

Moments like these remind me how important it is to have people and organizations that believe in and uplift your work. Thank you again for being part of this journey.

Link to the story: https://news.iu.edu/northwest/?_gl=1*jyejce*_gcl_aw*R0NMLjE3NzY3ODc1MzUuQ2p3S0NBand3SnpQQmhCUkVpd0FKZkhSblN0bkFxQ0xia1hHanVSQXNabVM5MG52SjBSSjItS1pSZk1CRDIyUTU0emRjZHFVbVhSMGhCb0MtN2dRQXZEX0J3RQ..*_gcl_au*NTUxOTUxOTQ4LjE3NzYyNzY2NTI.*_ga*MTIzMzgyNTE5OC4xNzc2Mjc2NjUy*_ga_61CH0D2DQW*czE3NzczOTc4ODkkbzckZzEkdDE3NzczOTgzOTgkajU0JGwwJGgw

Nearly 20 years ago, I walked away from my degree in education . Now the job is done. 🎓

In 2007, I came to IU Northwest to play basketball and study mathematics — driven by one teacher who changed my life in 7th grade.

By 2013, eligibility was up. Life was heavy. I had to step away.
But I never stopped. I coached. I trained players. I subbed. I taught wherever I had an opportunity. I poured into kids on the court and in classrooms — because the mission never paused, even when school did.

Through the self-doubt. Through the wondering if the window had closed. One phone call changed everything.

IUN welcomed me back with open arms — no judgment, just an open door. And this year, I finished what I started. 🙏

Now I walk into the classroom teaching 7th grade math — the same grade that sparked everything for me. And I’m on the court at Bosco Institute as Head Coach & Associate Athletic Director.

The long road taught me everything I needed:

✅ Struggle equips you — it doesn’t disqualify you
✅ Kids need someone steady in their corner — on the court AND in the classroom
✅ It is NEVER too late to finish what you started

Grateful for my family. My mentors. My students. My players.
If you stepped away from something that meant everything to you — don’t count yourself out. 💪

The road back is harder. But it’s worth it.

In honor of the national championship game, your 1995 National Champions UCLA Bruins legendary Head Coach Jim Harrick! Thanks for the great stories coach!

Game recognizes Game… Best hair in the country!

Heavenly Father,

We come to You today with heavy hearts but steadfast hope, lifting up Cooper Loll as he undergoes this life-saving surgery. We ask that You guide the hands, minds, and hearts of every surgeon, nurse, and technician in that room. Grant them unwavering focus, precision, and wisdom as they work.

Lord, we ask for Your divine protection over Cooper. Please steady his breathing, strengthen his heart, and bring peace to his body throughout the procedure. We also pray for his family and friends waiting for news clothe them in Your "peace that passes all understanding" and give them the endurance to face the hours ahead.

We trust in Your power to heal and Your grace to sustain. May the recovery that follows be swift and complete.

Amen.

Isaiah 41:10

"So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."

After a meaningful senior year at the University of Maine, Chris Mantis returns to the state tonight at 6:00 PM to take on the Maine Celtics. While his journey has taken him to the professional level, his love, passion, and determination for the game remain deeply rooted in the time he spent as a Black Bear. 🐾

His performance two nights ago in a big win against the Westchester Knicks was a quiet testament to that hard work and preparation:

✨ 23 PTS (8–17 FG) 🎯 7 Triples 🖐️ 5 AST | 4 BLK | 3 STL 📈 Team-high +49 rating

Stats aside, it is Chris’s professionalism and commitment to the “next level” mentality that stands out most. It’s a privilege to watch him continue to grow and compete.

Welcome back, Chris. Keep striving.