Rashad King didn’t come into college as a star — he built himself into one. 

King is Northeastern men’s basketball’s not-so-secret weapon this season. He leads the team in field goals, minutes played and free throws this season, standing at fifth in the CAA scorer rankings. But just two years ago, King, a junior guard, was nowhere near the spotlight he’s in now. Most recently, the CAA named him player of the week Dec. 9, 2024, marking his first conference accolade after two years in the NCAA.

“It means a lot to me. I feel like all my life I haven’t really been on the radar, so the accolades mean a lot. But it’s just the beginning. We got to keep going,” King said.

King may have once slipped under the radar, but those days are in the past. The confidence with which he approaches games is a testimony to the hard work that he puts in off the court. Through relentless practice and discipline, he’s earned his spot as the Huskies’ leader.

King has been described in many ways — Northeastern’s rock, remarkable, standout performer — just to name a few.

Despite King’s dominance on the court and countless achievements, sophomore guard JB Frankel kept it simple when asked to describe his teammate: “Humble, driven and goofy.” 

Frankel’s word choice is evidence of the role King has played for the Huskies both on and off the court. While he’s currently playing what seems to be the best season of his career, King’s humility, determination and camaraderie with his teammates and coaches are what make him a pillar for the team.

“I feel like it’s been brought out of me through the coaches. They helped me, they talk to me a lot, and my teammates trust and believe in me,” King said.

The Huskies entered the 2024-2025 season with high hopes despite the season prior’s disappointing 12-20 record. Individually, King ended last season averaging 8.3 points per game, something that he has managed to double, now averaging 17.8 points.

“It’s just the work that I put in over the summer. Over the last two years, we haven’t been as good as we wanted to be. I knew coming in that we had to be good,” King said.

The high standards that King set for himself and the team as he entered the 2024-25 season have transferred over into his play and his confidence on the court, something his teammates have found themselves relying on.

“Rashad is always super composed,” Frankel said. “No matter if it’s the start of the game or coming down to the final seconds, he’s super locked in and he’s always leading by example. He never gets flustered by the heat of the moment.”

King has emerged time and time again as a rock for the team when they need it most. 

“He’s consistent with his workouts, he’s consistent with his preparation, consistent with taking care of his body so he can go out there and compete,” head coach Bill Coen said.

Health is certainly something that the Northeastern men’s basketball team knows not to take for granted, as their season has been riddled with injuries and player absences, making the latter half of the season difficult for the Huskies. 

“We’ve been hurt, and that’s no excuse, but we’ve stumbled and missed a couple steps,” King said. “But we’re getting back on track, and I feel like we’re gonna go all the way.”

The Huskies and King are no strangers to pressure. Ten of their 25 games this season were decided by two or fewer possessions, often requiring the Huskies to bring the heat in the second half. 

“Once that second half comes around, it’s time to turn it on, bring it home, and win the game,” King said. 

This mentality doesn’t go unnoticed by his teammates. 

“When Rashad’s got it going, it’s a lot easier for everyone else. He’s the fuel that drives the engine of the team,” Frankel said. 

King may lead the team in numbers, but his most valuable asset may be his ability to lead by example and inspire his teammates. Countless clutch performances combined with a strong team bond off of the court have allowed King to step up as a true leader for the Huskies this season.

“I love the guys; the guys love me. They respond well to me and it’s kind of natural. I just go out there and try my best and hope it leads us to a victory,” King said.

The role that King has taken on as a leader and key player for the team this season may seem like it places an incredible amount of pressure on him, but King maintains that he feels none of it.

King attributes his composure to his faith. “I feel like there’s really no pressure. I believe in my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, so why feel any pressure when he went through a lot? When I go out there on the court I just put my faith in Him and it leads me to where I am now,” King said.

Frankel echoed this sentiment, expressing confidence in King’s potential for the remainder of the season. “For Rashad, the sky’s the limit. I’m not sure he’s focused on it, but I think he could win player of the year this year,” Frankel said. “He’s obviously trying to do everything to help the team win.” 

While King may not be focused on his own accolades, he’s undeniably made himself into a central figure for Northeastern men’s basketball this season. He continues to be the deciding factor in countless games, setting and breaking his own scoring records on numerous occasions. 

“I’m not really worried about what I’m doing, it’s more about the team’s success right now. What I’m trying to do is I’m just trying to win,” King said. “So whatever we need to get that done, we’re going to get it done. We’re going to shock a lot of people this year.”