Nathaniel Pollard Jr.'s journey is a testament to faith, ambition, dedication, and love. Initially drawn to soccer, basketball eventually captured his interest, influenced by his father and sister pursuing their own dreams in the sport. Starting on JV in 9th grade as a reserve, he faced a choice between basketball and volleyball due to conflicting schedules. Opting for basketball, he embraced a learning opportunity that led to becoming a varsity starter and captain for the next three years.

Moving to JUCO in Arizona marked a pivotal step, challenging him to grow personally and athletically. This prepared him for Division 1 basketball at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, where despite setbacks like COVID-19 and personal health challenges, he found spiritual growth, athletic success, and the love for the game of basketball leading to a life changing event earning HBCU MVP honors. His journey continued with NBA, G League, and FIBA opportunities, including a transformational experience professionally in Finland.

Nathaniel Pollard Jr. has pursued education alongside his basketball career, earning an associate's degree in general studies and a bachelor's degree in Sociology. He is preparing to pursue his master's degree in Business, following the footsteps of his mom and aligning with his goals beyond basketball. Nathaniel aspires to become an entrepreneur, delve into real estate, and ultimately transition into coaching once his basketball journey concludes. His diverse academic background reflects his determination to succeed both on and off the court.

Throughout his journey, Nathaniel cherishes the relationships forged and credits his family, friends, and loved ones for their unwavering support. His story is one of resilience, faith, and the relentless power of pursuing one's passions; and it has just begun.

Nathaniel Pollard Jr

Athletic Accolades

  • Finnish Korisliga Bronze Medal

  • Finnish 1st Division A -2024 (Player of the Week: 4 times)

  • Finnish League Semifinals

  • All-Finnish Korisliga Second Team

  • HBCU All-Star Game MVP 2023

  • HBCU All-Star Team 2023

  • HBCU Columbus Ohio All-Star Team 2023

  • Harlem All Star Team 2023

  • TBT (B1 Ballers)

  • 2023 UMES Team MVP

  • 2023 UMES Student Athlete of the Year

  • 2023 Finalist for MEAC Student Athlete of the Year

  • MEAC Tournament Semifinals - 2023

  • ALL-MEAC Second Team -2023

  • MEAC League Leader in Rebounding 2023

  • First Player in UMES History to be top 10 in blocks and steals

  • Top 10 in the country in offensive rebounding rate

  • MEAC All-Defensive Team - 2022

  • ACCAC Regular Season Runner-Up -2020

  • AII-ACCAC First Team -2020

  • All-NUCAA D1 Region I First Team -2020

  • NJCAA D1 Region I Champion -2020

  • NJCAA D1 West District Finalist -2020

  • NJCAA D1 All-America Honorable Mention 2020

Academic Mentions

  • Associate’s Degree in General Studies

  • Bachelor's Degree in Sociology

  • Dean’s List 3x UMES

  • 1 year of Business completed

  • UMES Student-Athlete of the Year

  • Eastern Arizona Junior College Student-Athlete of the Year

  • Honor Roll 4x Highland Springs High School

Clubs

  • Campus Activity Board Member for Eastern Arizona (2018-20)

  • Imperial Court (Mr. Maroon and Grey) UMES (2023)