“Finishing His Story“

After years of persistence, senior Preston Crisp is finally finishing his story. Earning a bachelor’s degree will conclude a journey shaped by multiple institutions, personal trials, growth, and determination—one that ultimately led him to the College of Coastal Georgia, a place where he felt he belonged. With graduation on the horizon, Crisp hopes he has made an impact that will inspire others to finish their own stories.

Crisp, a guard on the Mariner men’s basketball team, will soon cross the commencement stage with a bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary studies. His collegiate journey began at East Georgia State College, where he earned multiple associate degrees, followed by time at Coker University. When his son, Kayden, was born, Crisp stepped away from college but remained determined to one day complete his bachelor’s degree. When the opportunity to return to school arose, his choice came down to Savannah State University, near his home in Savannah, or Coastal Georgia.

“I could have stayed home and been close to everybody, but before I came here, Coach Jesse Watkins (former head coach of the College’s men’s basketball program) made a big impact on me. Coach O (Keith Olive, assistant coach for men’s basketball) made a big impact on me as well during my visit to campus.” Crisp said. “Coach Watkins tried to recruit me to play here previously. When I was doing my visit with Coach O, the College seemed like a good place where I could fit in right away. I came here to play basketball, but I also came here to complete my degree. It was the best of both worlds, and that’s why I chose Coastal.”

“Being an athlete anywhere—not only at Coastal—you can get lost. You’re busy practicing, you have an assignment due tomorrow, something comes up, and suddenly you’re struggling. Now you’re in a situation where you’re failing a class,” Crisp said. “You need to have good work ethic on and off the court. I was always taught that the ball is eventually going to stop bouncing. If you do what you’re supposed to do in the classroom, you’ll have your degree to fall back on.”

Crisp also believes in the importance of making a positive impact on others. He strives to lead by example for his teammates and fellow students, saying Coastal has provided opportunities to do so in meaningful ways. Last Halloween, the men’s basketball team went downtown to create gift bags for children in need. In February, Crisp, fellow seniors Derrick Harris, Isaiah Edden and Aamir Mack, along with men’s basketball Head Coach Tim MacAllister and Assistant Coach Adam Sizemore, partnered with Iguanas Seafood Restaurant on St. Simons Island for the restaurant’s Month of Giveaways event. As part of the initiative, Iguanas gave away tickets to a basketball game. They went live on social media, announcing the winners, and helped promote the basketball program.

Through these experiences, Crisp hopes to build a legacy of impact. As he looks beyond graduation, he is considering two primary paths—playing professional basketball or becoming a Division I collegiate basketball coach.

“I want to be able to impact kids on a different level,” he said. “Teaching them things I wish I would’ve known growing up and giving back time I wish I had.”

Crisp is considering becoming a graduate assistant for a collegiate basketball program as a first step toward coaching. He would eventually like to work at an institution in California, drawn by the warm weather, proximity to the beach, and closeness to family. At the same time, he is actively pursuing the opportunity to play professionally and is in the process of securing a sports agent.

“I’ve talked to my coaches, and they believe I can go pro,” Crisp said. “They’ve told me, ‘Just enjoy it and don’t stop playing.’ I still love the game, so I’m working on getting an agent and hopefully landing somewhere that allows me to live out my dream.”

Crisp is also open to playing abroad and looks forward to the possibility of experiencing new cultures and meeting new people.

Coastal Memories on and off the Court

Crisp credits the College’s student resources—such as tutoring services—and the open lines of communication with faculty for supporting his academic success.

“Anytime I’ve needed help or had a situation come up, I’ve been open and communicated with my professors, asking for extra time,” he said. “I feel like Coastal has been good to me on and off the court. Everybody is nice, and everybody wants you to succeed. It’s been good.”

One of Crisp’s favorite professors is Dr. Matthew Mosley, associate professor of hospitality and tourism management. When Crisp first enrolled at the College, he majored in hospitality, tourism and event management, with a concentration in sports management. Mosley served as his instructor for one of his courses, which Crisp said he enjoyed. Even after Crisp switched his major to interdisciplinary studies, Mosley continued to check in with him whenever they crossed paths on campus.

“He was always cool—always talking to me and keeping me engaged,” Crisp said. “Whenever we see each other, we speak. He always says, ‘Good luck on the game.’ Yeah, he’s pretty cool.”

On the court, one of Crisp’s favorite moments this season came in a game against Georgia Gwinnett College. The Mariners defeated Georgia Gwinnett 91‑88, with Crisp hitting the game‑winning 3‑pointer at the buzzer. With the game tied as time expired, Crisp caught a pass from Braden Wood and sank the shot, sending the Mariners’ bench into celebration.

“They were the No. 25 team in the nation, and we beat them,” he said. “That’s probably my favorite moment.”

Whatever Life Throws

Through his journey, Crisp has learned the importance of adaptability when life brings unexpected challenges. He credits his experiences with helping him become more flexible and resilient.

“I’ve been through so much from when I first got to college until now. I tell people my story and encourage them not to give up. Don’t give up, because you’ll live with regrets,” Crisp said. “I made a lot of serious choices after I had my son. I left school and paid the consequences because it was hard to get back into school. Never give up. I feel like through it all, God has given me a lot of opportunities to continue my dream.”

It is a dream that Crisp now gets to share with his son. Balancing fatherhood, academics, and athletics has taught him the importance of being grounded personally so he can show up for his son and be the best father possible. Kayden is always on his mind, and Crisp appreciates the support he receives not only from family and friends, but from his coaches as well, who regularly ask about his son. This past season, Kayden attended Crisp’s home games, watching him play. Soon, he will watch his father achieve another milestone—earning a bachelor’s degree.

“There’s always going to be something that comes your way,” Crisp said. “But if you believe in God and believe that God has you, then I think you’ll be OK.”

Assistant Coach Keith Olive described Crisp as a remarkable individual whose character extends far beyond what people see on the court.

“Those on the outside only see him as a talented basketball player. I have gotten to know him over the past few years and realized that the world has no idea how great of a person, student, and athlete he is and has become,” Olive said. “The obstacles and barriers he has faced while still being a high-achieving student and player deserves praise. I am grateful to not only know Preston, but to be a part and witness his journey, which has been truly inspiring. I am a forever-changed person by knowing him.”

When times get tough—particularly in the classroom—Crisp encourages students to stay focused and think about their futures. He advises them to remember their “why factor,” the motivation behind pursuing a college degree, and to seek help when needed.

“Right now, school will always be there,” he said. “If you wait until later, when life gets harder, it will be tougher to go back. If you’re in it, just go ahead and finish. I took time off, and I wish I had stayed and completed. Who knows? Life may have been different, but I’m happy with my life, and I’m looking forward to graduating.”

As Crisp prepares to graduate, his degree represents more than an academic milestone—it stands as proof that progress is not always linear. His return to college after time away speaks to resilience, growth, and a deeper sense of purpose. By finishing what he once had to step away from, Crisp is reclaiming a goal on his own terms, showing that it’s never too late to start again or to finish strong.

Outside of school work and basketball, Crisp enjoys spending time with his family and loved ones, listening to music, and connecting with friends.