Kenneth van Kempen answered Ohio's call for leadership much like a doctor would that of an ailing patient.
As the team's only senior, van Kempen is posting career-highs in almost every statistical category this season. His 6.6 points per game more than doubles last year's average of 3.2, and he leads the team in rebounding with 6.9 boards per contest.
In the past three seasons, the student section cheered sarcastically whenever van Kempen made even the simplest play. That stopped this year as the center transformed into one of the team's leaders on and off the court.
It started with coming to the team in good physical condition at the beginning of the season, van Kempen said.
The coaches worked out with me in the offseason to get me better in shape
losing some weight he said. It helps out for me better moving on the court.
The native of Weert, the Netherlands, also improved his jump shot. His 47 percent shooting from the field (also a career-best) ranks third on the team.
But van Kempen's biggest praise this season came on defense. After a Jan. 31 loss to Ball State, coach John Groce said he thought van Kempen was the best interior defender in the conference.
That's comforting to know going into a game that every single night you're gonna have a guy you can put on a really good low-post player Groce said. He's a smart player
especially defensively
and he's done a good job of making our team better.
Away from the court, van Kempen's leadership reaches a team that has little experience. Despite being thrust into the position, van Kempen has done well, Groce said.
I think it's important when you're a senior to try to help out your teammates
van Kempen said. I just try to help them and encourage them the best way I can to give them confidence and keep doing what they're doing.
Van Kempen attended medical school before coming to Ohio. He also boasts one of the highest grade point averages on the team - leadership in the classroom that will pay dividends in the future, Groce said.
Whether he becomes a doctor
or whether he becomes a guy who continues to play overseas
(his leadership helps develop) a better feel of how to connect with people and his teammates
Groce said.
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