Every week, the Sports Information Department at Purchase will select a new student-athlete or coach to highlight in our “In the Panther Spotlight” feature … today's feature: Men's basketball newcomer David Haughton.

Purchase, NY (Nov. 7, 2012) – David Haughton is a physical presence.

The strapping, six-foot-four basketball player will be one of the fresh faces to hit the hardwood this winter for the Purchase College men's basketball team and he's ready to make that presence felt.

“I'm really excited about this opportunity,” said Haughton, a nearby Greenburgh native. “Purchase has been on the rise the past few years, winning championships and I want to continue that tradition and make a name for myself here. My dream is to play at the next level and I'm focused. It starts here.”  

The Sullivan Community College transfer is a key addition to a club that narrowly fell short of its third consecutive Skyline Conference crown in 2011-12, losing to Farmingdale State in the championship game after winning two straight titles and reaching the NCAAs in 2010 and 2011. His physical toughness and muscular athletic frame provides the Panthers even more depth in their rotation. Haughton could easily start at forward or center, or be one of the most dangerous role players in the conference.

“He's a terrific addition,” Purchase head coach Jeff Charney said. “David is part of a strong recruiting class this year and we believe we have all the parts to contend again this season.”

In addition to his desire to play hoops at Purchase, Haughton said he chose the campus because of its economics program. “It deeply interested me,” he said.

The microeconomics major has quickly adjusted to Purchase in his first semester. He is part of the student staff – an Intercollegiate Athletic Assistant – staffing games during the fall, and he's enjoying the challenges of his class work and being pushed by the coaching staff on the hardwood.

Haughton said he may seem undersized for the center position, but like his work ethic, his drive to succeed plays bigger between the lines.

“Hard work is where it's at for me,” said Haughton, who idolizes Boston Celtic big man Kevin Garnett – a player he has patented his game after. “I determined to graduate, be a champion here at Purchase and to continue to pursue my dreams every day.”

If his long term goals of playing professionally don't work out, Haughton said he would entertain utilizing his math background and become a sports agent, or possibly pursue his Master's degree.  

But for now, the focus is on school work and basketball.

“Hitting the books and rebounding and scoring,” he joked. “Our coaching staff has done a great job. They are approachable and they have us ready to get going.” 

While Garnett is the emotional leader of the Celtics, Haughton said he aspires to play a similar role for the Panthers. “KG plays with heart!” 

Haughton wants to bring the same attitude to his new team.  “Go hard or go home.”

Needless to say, with the season still roughly two weeks away, his presence has been felt already.

-With Bobby Ciafardini, SID