WBOY.com: Clarksburg, Morgantown: News, Sports, WeatherMVB Athlete of the Week: University's Nick Gutmann

The sounds of sneakers squeaking return. Basketball season is back. The University Hawk boy's team is facing the tough task of replacing five seniors from last years team, while newcomers settle into their roles. Third year head coach Paul Ingle knows more pieces need to fall into place, but is grateful he has a player like senior Nick Gutmann.

"There's no team that has success that doesn't have kids like Nick Gutmann. In the classroom, representing his team wherever he goes and he does exude that leadership and I just can't imagine out team without him," Hawks coach Paul Ingle stated.

Gutmann was a dual sport fall athlete. He split duties between playing for the soccer team, and was the kicker for the football team. Now he turns his attention to the hardwood, a sport he's played since a toddler. While he admits won't be lighting it up every night, he understands his role as the sixth man, an opportunity he feels gives him an edge.

"It's kind of interesting coming off the bench because you get awhile to observe what the other team is doing and kind of pick out what the other players weaknesses are and how they defend you. I think it's kind of an advantage on defense and offense because a lot of times stepping straight into a game, you don't really know what to expect," Gutmann added.

From just spending 15 minutes with Gutmann it was clear, he is a smart player and an extension of the coaching staff on the floor.

"I really like to talk on the court, I really like to keep things organized because I think it just works so much better. Communication is huge especially, I know I had to do it in soccer and the same thing here in basketball. It's really big to keep everyone on the same page," Gutmann said.

"he's such a well rounded person, whether it be in soccer, football, basketball, in the classroom, orchestra, everything that he does, and they all lend themselves to each other and make him a better person," Ingle added.

The Hawks open their season at home next Wednesday night against Wheeling Park.