Eastern Michigan Athletics
Eastern Insider Podcast - Season 7 - Episode 16
1/13/2025 7:00:00 PM | Men's Basketball, Women's Basketball, General
Sisi’s Milestone and Braun’s Wisdom
Click Here to Listen Now!
YPSILANTI, Mich. (EMUEagles.com) -- The Eastern Insider podcast kicked off the new year with hosts Tom Helmer and Greg Steiner delivering an in-depth update on EMU athletics. The focus was on the basketball programs and upcoming conference matchups, with plenty of insights into the men's and women's seasons.
The men's basketball team is seeking defensive improvement as they face Central Michigan and Bowling Green this week. Central Michigan has yet to secure a conference win, while Bowling Green, after a strong run last season, has shown signs of regression. Helmer emphasized the importance of securing wins early in the MAC schedule, as past seasons saw EMU just miss crucial victories that could have significantly impacted tournament seeding.
Key players highlighted included the two DePaul transfers, with Helmer noting a need for greater consistency among them. Jalen Terry and Da'Sean Nelson were specifically mentioned, with Nelson recovering from illness during a recent game. Arne Osojnik's shooting struggles were also discussed, though signs of regained confidence emerged. Freshman Dillon Tingler continues to contribute positively off the bench.
The women's basketball team continues to battle through a challenging season. Despite a close loss to Akron, the team showed improved defense and effort. Sisi Eleko reached her 1,000th career point, a milestone she achieved through determination despite defensive pressure from Ball State. The team is preparing for a matchup against Buffalo, a squad that has struggled in conference play after an easier non-conference schedule.
The podcast also touched on the MAC-Sun Belt Challenge, with EMU set to host Old Dominion in a balanced matchup. On the women's side, the team will travel to Georgia State for a favorable travel scenario.
Segment 1 - Sisi Eleko
Women's basketball standout Sisi Eleko recently joined Eastern Insider host Tom Helmer to discuss reaching the 1,000-point milestone in her collegiate career. Reflecting on the accomplishment, Eleko expressed gratitude, saying, "Yes, thank you, it feels good to reach that benchmark." Eleko's achievement came during the game against Akron, where she secured her 1,000th point with a tough inside bucket against a 6-foot-5 defender, a fitting reflection of her physical style of play.
Helmer highlighted Eleko's rapid ascent, noting she achieved the feat in just 73 games, placing her among the top 10 fastest active players in the nation to hit the mark. "I didn't know that," Eleko admitted, adding, "I just wanted to play Division I basketball and do my best. I never imagined having this level of success."
Since transferring from Canisius, Eleko has continued to shine, averaging an impressive 20.1 points per game this season. Helmer pointed out that if she maintains this pace, she'd become the first EMU player in 15 years to average over 20 points per game, a feat last accomplished by Hall of Famer Tavelyn James. "The Hall of Fame would mean a lot," Eleko shared. "I'm a guest in the United States, so if I could achieve that, I would feel really blessed."
Eleko also credited her older sister for inspiring her commitment to rebounding and double-doubles. "I never had a double-double in high school, but watching her play made me want to improve," she said. With eight double-doubles already this season, Eleko continues to prove herself as one of the most dominant players in the MAC.
"I've always felt underrated," Eleko concluded. "But I'm starting to feel like I'm earning the respect I deserve."
Segment 2 - Ben Braun
Hall of Fame Coach Ben Braun joined Greg Steiner for his annual interview, reflecting on his legacy and the current state of college basketball. Braun, whose name is proudly displayed on the court at the George Gervin GameAbove Center, expressed gratitude for his return to Eastern Michigan University.
"It's humbling and a proud moment," Braun shared when asked about the court being named in his honor. "But it's a little surreal. I'm just pleased my family was able to share the moment."
Reflecting on his ongoing work as a television commentator, Braun discussed how his perspective as a former coach influences his analysis. "Once you're a student of the game, you look at things differently. I always ask myself, 'What adjustments would I make in that situation?' It's fun to match wits with the coaches."
Addressing the challenges facing modern college basketball, Braun commented on the transfer portal and NIL deals reshaping the sport. "It's tough for coaches today. You recruit a player, but now you have to re-recruit them each season. It's hard to build long-term success like we did when players stayed until they were seniors."
Braun also praised current EMU Head Coach Stan Heath's team. "They've got excellent offensive play. The key is consistent defensive effort. If they can get stops, they'll be tough to beat."
The conversation closed with reflections on the legacy of EMU athletics. Braun spoke fondly of figures like Ron Oestrike, Bob Parks, and Gene Smith, emphasizing the school's rich tradition. "Eastern has a great history. I'm just proud to be a part of it."
As Braun continues his work as a commentator, his connection to EMU remains strong. "The game keeps me close, and it never gets old for me."
YPSILANTI, Mich. (EMUEagles.com) -- The Eastern Insider podcast kicked off the new year with hosts Tom Helmer and Greg Steiner delivering an in-depth update on EMU athletics. The focus was on the basketball programs and upcoming conference matchups, with plenty of insights into the men's and women's seasons.
The men's basketball team is seeking defensive improvement as they face Central Michigan and Bowling Green this week. Central Michigan has yet to secure a conference win, while Bowling Green, after a strong run last season, has shown signs of regression. Helmer emphasized the importance of securing wins early in the MAC schedule, as past seasons saw EMU just miss crucial victories that could have significantly impacted tournament seeding.
Key players highlighted included the two DePaul transfers, with Helmer noting a need for greater consistency among them. Jalen Terry and Da'Sean Nelson were specifically mentioned, with Nelson recovering from illness during a recent game. Arne Osojnik's shooting struggles were also discussed, though signs of regained confidence emerged. Freshman Dillon Tingler continues to contribute positively off the bench.
The women's basketball team continues to battle through a challenging season. Despite a close loss to Akron, the team showed improved defense and effort. Sisi Eleko reached her 1,000th career point, a milestone she achieved through determination despite defensive pressure from Ball State. The team is preparing for a matchup against Buffalo, a squad that has struggled in conference play after an easier non-conference schedule.
The podcast also touched on the MAC-Sun Belt Challenge, with EMU set to host Old Dominion in a balanced matchup. On the women's side, the team will travel to Georgia State for a favorable travel scenario.
Segment 1 - Sisi Eleko
Women's basketball standout Sisi Eleko recently joined Eastern Insider host Tom Helmer to discuss reaching the 1,000-point milestone in her collegiate career. Reflecting on the accomplishment, Eleko expressed gratitude, saying, "Yes, thank you, it feels good to reach that benchmark." Eleko's achievement came during the game against Akron, where she secured her 1,000th point with a tough inside bucket against a 6-foot-5 defender, a fitting reflection of her physical style of play.
Helmer highlighted Eleko's rapid ascent, noting she achieved the feat in just 73 games, placing her among the top 10 fastest active players in the nation to hit the mark. "I didn't know that," Eleko admitted, adding, "I just wanted to play Division I basketball and do my best. I never imagined having this level of success."
Since transferring from Canisius, Eleko has continued to shine, averaging an impressive 20.1 points per game this season. Helmer pointed out that if she maintains this pace, she'd become the first EMU player in 15 years to average over 20 points per game, a feat last accomplished by Hall of Famer Tavelyn James. "The Hall of Fame would mean a lot," Eleko shared. "I'm a guest in the United States, so if I could achieve that, I would feel really blessed."
Eleko also credited her older sister for inspiring her commitment to rebounding and double-doubles. "I never had a double-double in high school, but watching her play made me want to improve," she said. With eight double-doubles already this season, Eleko continues to prove herself as one of the most dominant players in the MAC.
"I've always felt underrated," Eleko concluded. "But I'm starting to feel like I'm earning the respect I deserve."
Segment 2 - Ben Braun
Hall of Fame Coach Ben Braun joined Greg Steiner for his annual interview, reflecting on his legacy and the current state of college basketball. Braun, whose name is proudly displayed on the court at the George Gervin GameAbove Center, expressed gratitude for his return to Eastern Michigan University.
"It's humbling and a proud moment," Braun shared when asked about the court being named in his honor. "But it's a little surreal. I'm just pleased my family was able to share the moment."
Reflecting on his ongoing work as a television commentator, Braun discussed how his perspective as a former coach influences his analysis. "Once you're a student of the game, you look at things differently. I always ask myself, 'What adjustments would I make in that situation?' It's fun to match wits with the coaches."
Addressing the challenges facing modern college basketball, Braun commented on the transfer portal and NIL deals reshaping the sport. "It's tough for coaches today. You recruit a player, but now you have to re-recruit them each season. It's hard to build long-term success like we did when players stayed until they were seniors."
Braun also praised current EMU Head Coach Stan Heath's team. "They've got excellent offensive play. The key is consistent defensive effort. If they can get stops, they'll be tough to beat."
The conversation closed with reflections on the legacy of EMU athletics. Braun spoke fondly of figures like Ron Oestrike, Bob Parks, and Gene Smith, emphasizing the school's rich tradition. "Eastern has a great history. I'm just proud to be a part of it."
As Braun continues his work as a commentator, his connection to EMU remains strong. "The game keeps me close, and it never gets old for me."
Players Mentioned
M/F
/ Women's Basketball
F
/ Men's Basketball
G
/ Men's Basketball
G
/ Men's Basketball
G
/ Men's BasketballBen Braun Video at MAC Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony
Friday, May 30
Ben Braun at MAC Hall of Fame Induction
Friday, May 30
Charles E. Ramsey - MAC Hall of Fame Induction of Ben Braun
Friday, May 30
Jack Brusewitz - MAC Hall of Fame Induction of Ben Braun
Friday, May 30