Florida Atlantic point guard Alex Tucker is a man on a mission when it comes to passing. The junior dished the rock 141 times last season which ranked him 3rd in the Sun Belt and 69th nationally. Along the way, he enjoyed a program record 16 assist performance against rival FIU.

He wasn't doing a lot of shooting at times, but when he did, he found success at a 44.4% clip from the field.

Accordingly, Coach Mike Jarvis would like to see him fire away more often when the opportunity presents itself.

"He's one of the best assist leaders in the league. All he has to do is look at the rim a little bit more. When he starts to take open shots...we become an even more dangerous team", said Jarvis.

Tucker has also drawn praise from Jarvis on many occasions due to his defensive ability, and will once again draw the assignment of shutting down the opponents top threat this season.

A participant in other sports recreationally, Tucker is ambidextrous. He throws right and bats left in baseball, and can kick with either leg in soccer.

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

Fast Break

What is your Favorite Book?

"Quiet Strength: The Principles, Practices, and Priorities of a Winning Life"

What is your Favorite Movie?

"Anchorman"

Who is your current off the court role model?

"My mom and dad, because I see how hard they work and it makes me want to work just as hard.

How long have you been playing basketball?

"Since I was four (17 years)."

What are you most proud of?

"Getting into college, that's a big moment. On the court, last year...getting 16 assists."

What is your major?

"Sociology, I want to open an after school program for kids."

What is your Faith?

"Christian."

Set Plays

Other than FAU, what schools did you consider?

"Coming out of prep school Tulane, Cal State Northridge, and Long Beach State."

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

"My leadership, and finding the open man who needs to have the ball."

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

"Staying aggressive on the offensive end. Sometimes I'll be open and will pass on the shot."

Open Run

Besides basketball, what brought you to FAU?

"The weather, being from California, and the location. Didn't know much about the school, but I knew who Coach Jarvis was."

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

"I know how to skateboard really well, and I have two pets (dogs) - Fred and Wilma."

What are your goals for the upcoming season?

"I want to get at least a 3.0. Basketball wise, I want the team to do really well. I know what we are capable of and, with the talent we have, think we are strong enough to win the conference championship."

Coming Up

Our next player is afraid of heights.