SEASIDE, Calif. — Jaden Tengan's journey as a student-athlete at Cal State Monterey Bay is one defined by dedication, perseverance, and the pursuit of excellence both on the basketball court and in the classroom.
As a junior guard for the Otters, Tengan has become a cornerstone of the team, known for his unwavering commitment to his craft and his teammates.
For Tengan, the decision to join Cal State Monterey Bay was a deliberate one, driven by a desire to find the perfect balance between athletics and academics. The competitive basketball program, coupled with the strong academic environment, made the university an ideal fit for Tengan.
"The best part of my collegiate playing experience hasn't just been the games or the stats — it's been the little things that come with being part of a team," Tengan said. "The early morning practices, the road trips, the locker room jokes, the late-night talks after tough losses — it's the brotherhood we've built that stands out the most."
Where Tengan truly has set himself apart has been at the free-throw line. As a free-throw shooter, he has established himself as one of the best in CSUMB history. His accuracy as a freshman (89.6 percent) and as a sophomore (90.1 percent) rank No. 1 and No. 2 in the Otter record book.
His secret? Routine and confidence. Tengan emphasizes the importance of maintaining a consistent routine at the free-throw line, ensuring that every rep is executed in the same manner. In high-pressure situations, he relies on this routine to give him the peace of mind and confidence needed to succeed.
Looking to the future, Tengan has set ambitious goals for himself and his team. Individually, he aspires to earn Player of the Year honors, but his focus remains on pushing himself to be the best version of himself in every game, ultimately helping his team secure victories. As a team, their sights are set on making history by securing one of the top three seeds in the CCAA and winning the conference tournament.
Beyond basketball, Tengan envisions a future in the business world. With a passion for business and real estate, he aims to establish his own real estate firm after graduating from CSUMB. Tengan sees this venture as an opportunity not only to support himself but also to create opportunities for others. He is eager to apply the discipline and leadership skills he has developed through basketball to succeed in the business realm.
In the words of Head Coach Isaac Williams, "Jaden is one of the most committed student-athletes we've ever had here at CSUMB. He's a gym rat, he's supremely focused, and he's an incredible teammate. He's the type of individual every coach wishes they had on their team."
As Tengan continues to make his mark at CSUMB, both on and off the court, he remains committed to his teammates, his education, and his future endeavors. With his unwavering dedication and pursuit of excellence, Tengan is poised to leave a lasting legacy at Cal State Monterey Bay and beyond.
GO OTTERS!
