When Josiah Allick graduates next week with his Master of Business Administration from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, he’ll add another milestone to an already remarkable year. The former Husker basketball standout not only launched his professional career overseas but also earned Most Valuable Player honors in the New Zealand National Basketball League in July—the first player in Southland Sharks history to earn the title.
Allick returned to Lincoln to play basketball for the Huskers in 2023-24 for his final year of eligibility. Already holding a bachelor’s degree in computer science from the University of New Mexico, he enrolled in an online business graduate certificate program at Nebraska.
“The appeal of playing back at home, just 10 minutes from where I grew up, was obviously a big factor. Knowing the city and the individuals who make up the Lincoln community put me at ease
with everything outside of basketball,” he said. “Pursuing a certificate in business analytics seemed like the most logical step for me as I was trying to prove myself as a student and preparing to apply for the MBA program."
He completed four eight-week courses in the certificate program, which rolled into the MBA. Allick continued his studies as a graduate assistant for Nebraska men’s basketball during the 2024–25 academic year.
“I wasn’t planning on playing professionally right away to give myself time to recover from ankle surgery,” he said. “Knowing I needed to prepare for life after basketball, I continued my MBA to gain the tools necessary to advance in whatever industry I find myself in the future or as an entrepreneur."
His recovery progressed faster than expected, and with it came an opportunity to join the Sharks. Initially hesitant, Allick took time to build a relationship with head coach Jonathan Yim before making his decision.
“As I got to know him and heard his vision and philosophy, I realized I’d gain valuable experience on the court with my health taken seriously every step of the way,” Allick said.
He signed with the Sharks in February, launching his pro career overseas while balancing training and MBA coursework across multiple time zones. He credited the program’s flexibility for helping make it possible.
“My MBA professors were very considerate of my situation, despite my being seven hours behind Central Standard Time. They made reasonable accommodations, and my classmates were great about coordinating group work and periodic check-ins,” Allick said.
Özgür Araz, chair of the Department of Supply Chain Management and Analytics and Ron and Carol Cope Professor, taught Allick in his Predictive Analytics (SCMA 851) course.
“Josiah was an exceptionally responsible student who consistently stayed on top of his work throughout the semester. He was respectful and contributed positively to the online classroom environment," Araz said.
Allick said the MBA’s leadership and management courses not only introduced new techniques he could apply to basketball but also affirmed lessons he learned through team experiences.
In July, he led the Sharks to their first postseason appearance since 2019. In the semifinal, he recorded 21 points and 15 rebounds in a win over the defending champions, the Canterbury Rams. The Sharks
advanced to the Grand Final, ultimately finishing as runner-up after a five-point loss to the Wellington Saints.
“Playing with the Southland Sharks ended up being an amazing time with great people. They were as close to a family support system as you’ll find in college or professional basketball,” he said.
With his Nebraska MBA and extensive experience leading teams, Allick feels well prepared for the future, whether that’s in business, coaching or a new partnership—as he marries his fiancée, Raina, the week of graduation.
“There are a lot of parallels between managing a business and being the head coach of a team, from attracting investors or boosters, training and developing talent, delegating responsibilities, and evaluating and retaining employees or players,” he said. “That, combined with my experience as a player and in coaching roles, will help as I determine what’s next.”
