Florida Atlantic forward Andre Mattison returns in the front court for the Owls after appearing in 22 games last season averaging 5.8 minutes and registering a season high seven point performance against Louisiana.

A native of Washington DC, Mattison enjoyed a very successful high school campaign at Coolidge High School where he racked up numerous awards including three All-DCIAA recognitions and being named team MVP as a senior.

At 6'-7" Mattison can get above the rim in a big way, but the high flyer says he's not fond of the area.

"I'm scared of heights", said Mattison.

Of course that can play a part in the travel experience as well FAU hits the airways on a regular basis during the season.

"(In planes) I just sit, look straight ahead, and deal with it." "I look (out the window), but I don't stare down."

Coach Mike Jarvis is looking for a more physical and consistent game from his sophomore forward for the 2010-11 season.

"Bring it, and turn the motor on every day", said Jarvis.

Mattison recently sat down with us for "Up Close".

Fast Break

What is your Favorite Book?

"A Wrinkle In Time"

What is your Favorite Movie?

"Step Brothers"

Who is your current off the court role model?

"My former high school coach, he teaches good life lessons...Coach Jarvis used to coach him."

How long have you been playing basketball?

"It's been about seven years now."

What are you most proud of?

"I made the Honor Society in high school, and am pretty proud of that."

What is your major?

"Sociology, you can do a lot of things with a degree...it's pretty broad."

What is your Faith?

"Christian."

Set Plays

Other than FAU, what schools did you consider?

"Harvard, Cornell and American University."

What aspect of your game do you feel is your strength?

"I'm a pretty good defensive player, and am a great rebounder."

What aspect of your game do you feel is your weakness?

"My all handling ability, and passing ability."

Open Run

Besides basketball, what brought you to FAU?

"When I came on my visit, I liked the environment, and the people. It seemed like a cool place to go to school and learn. And to kind of get away (from home)."

What do you want FAU fans to know about you personally?

"I play a lot of other sports too...ping pong, pool, a little bit of football, and I am great at video games - Call of Duty."

What are your goals for the upcoming season?

"I want us to win the Sun Belt Tournament, and trying to get a 3.5 GPA."

Coming Up

Our next player was born prematurely, but defied major odds against him.