Nate Bittle’s parents, Ryan and Susanne, have greatly supported their basketball journeys.
Nathan Bittle, also known as “The Alligator,” plays college basketball for the Oregon Ducks in the Big Ten Conference.
During his sophomore year, he averaged 21.3 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 4.5 blocks per game.
He also set a state tournament record for the most blocks in a game with 10 against Pendleton High School in a 5A consolation game.
Ryan And Susanne Bittle’s Support Helps Sons Nate And Kyle Pursue Big Dreams In Basketball
With his basketball knowledge and experience, Ryan has helped children Nate and Kyle understand the game better.
Susanne has always been there, encouraging them not only in sports but also in school. Together, they’ve ensured their kids stay focused on basketball and education.
@Nathanbittle33 has looked up to @KyleSingler and @EJSingler for a long time. What an honor to be in the same class as him. A lot of work left to do, but grateful for all his opportunities… #2017pic #13yrsold to #🍔Boys https://t.co/VJZ7MMr6LC pic.twitter.com/WCU3mVkQyS
— Ryan Bittle (@bittlenation) February 26, 2021
He mentioned that his family is passionate about basketball, with games always on at home every night.
One of his key takeaways is observing how players move without the ball.
He also notices how many forwards and centers stretch the floor, hitting outside shots and making plays for their teammates with their passing.
My family loves basketball and it’s on in my house every night. I think my biggest takeaways are how the players move without the ball. I also notice how a lot of forwards and centers are really stretching the floor and knocking down shots from the outside and making plays for teammates passing the ball.
Nate Bittle
The Bittle family support helped Nate become a top recruit, and Kyle followed in his footsteps, balancing his love for basketball with his 3.6 GPA.
Ryan Bittle doesn’t try to influence his son too much, but he offers his perspective as a parent.
Throughout Nate’s basketball journey, he’s always been the best player.
Ryan remembers Nate’s impressive performance in his freshman year state tournament, scoring a 40-point triple-double, as one of those standout moments.
Since then, the family from Central Point has focused on chasing big dreams.
Last season, however, things changed for Nate. As a freshman at the University of Oregon, he was no longer the best player.
He played less, averaging only 7 minutes and 1.7 points per game, as he adjusted to college basketball and coach Dana Altman’s expectations.
Ryan acknowledged that being a parent can sometimes be frustrating, but he’s always encouraged Nate to keep improving.
He reminds him that there will always be someone trying to improve, and the key is to keep getting stronger and following the coaches’ guidance.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- For his senior year, Bittle transferred to Prolific Prep in Napa, California, after his AAU coach, Mark Phelps, became the head coach there.
- He was selected for prestigious events like the McDonald’s All-American Game, Jordan Brand Classic, and Nike Hoop Summit.
- In his junior year, he averaged 25 points, 11 rebounds, and 4.5 blocks per game, leading his team to the 5A state semifinals, which were later canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. He was named 5A Player of the Year by The Oregonian.
