MUNCIE, Ind. — Ball State senior, Payton Sparks, returned to Worthen Arena this fall.
After a year in the crimson and cream at Indiana University, Sparks looks to lead this Cardinal squad with some newfound experience. There is a lot that can be discovered when playing for a program with such a rich history. Sparks touched on what he learned during his time playing for the Hoosiers.
“I learned how to really work hard,” said Sparks. “I proved [to] myself that I could play with those guys.”
However, it wasn’t always bright skies for the Cardinal down in Bloomington. He averaged just 7.4 minutes of play at the Big 10 program compared to the average 28.6 minutes he saw in his first two years in Muncie. With this, he averaged 2.1 points, 1.8 rebounds and 0.4 blocks.
“It was a challenge, it wasn’t all bright,” said Sparks. “Taking what I learned from that level and just bringing it here and just working hard every day.”
Sparks also was met with a plethora of NBA-level talent. This includes former teammate Kel’el Ware, who was drafted 15th overall to the Miami Heat in the first round of the 2024 NBA Draft. With such talent at his disposal, Sparks was able to work and learn from some of the biggest names in college basketball.
“I respect him so much,” said Sparks. “I definitely learned from everybody, playing with anybody.”
As Sparks announced that he would hit the transfer portal after his year at Indiana, Ball State Head Coach Michael Lewis knew very well of what kind of impact Sparks could make coming back to the nest.
“His impact on our program is much bigger because of the person he is,” said Lewis.
With Coach Lewis being a former Hoosier himself, he is very familiar with what comes with the territory. However, he views the matter as a much more personal decision than just choosing where one should play. It is something that can help shape someone both on and off the court.
“I think with Payton and how he’s handled himself, and who he is as a person, he’s done that very well which is going to pay off for him as he moves forward in his future,” said Lewis.
Now back at his old stomping ground, Sparks will take all that he’s been through and learned to help the Cardinals soar this season. If you ask Payton what his goals are for the season, there’s only one thing on his mind.
“Goal is just to win,” said Sparks. “I just want to win and just have a good year. Have fun and just enjoy it.”
Contact Jake Garcia with comments at jaycob.garcia@bsu.edu.
