Heart of an Owl: FAU’s Tre Carroll continues to shine with increased role

Boca Raton, FL.- Florida Atlantic University has quickly become one of the premier destinations for elite college basketball.

Over the past two seasons, the Owls have exploded onto the national stage, making appearances in two consecutive NCAA Tournaments, including a Cinderella 2023 Final 4 run. During this time frame, the “Beach Boys” stole the show. As the Owls competed on the biggest stages in sports, the community of Palm Beach County, especially Boca Raton, rallied behind the hometown squad.

One of the Owls that captivated the hearts of FAU nation is Forward, Tre Carroll. Carroll, a 6 foot 7 junior, has emerged as the heart and soul of the program. Whether it’s from his pre game dancing, electric celebrations or just admiration of a beautiful flow, Tre Carroll has quickly became a favorite amongst the fanbase, coaches and local media.

Throughout his career at FAU, Carroll was used primarily as a rotational depth piece. In his first two years as an Owl, Tre averaged well under than ten minutes per game, alongside an average of 3.7 PPG, and 1.8 rebounds per game. Despite the limited role on the court, Carroll found his true purpose on this team. Tre embraced his role as the Owls’ hype man, firing up the crowd with his energetic reactions and mid game dancing.

Following the 2024 season, there was change on campus in Boca Raton. Florida Atlantic’s Head Coach, Dusty May announced his intention to sign with the Michigan Wolverines. After May’s departure, eight of the Owls entered the transfer portal, with another three graduating. FAU would sign former Baylor assistant coach John Jakus to serve as the Owls newest Head Coach.

After the signing of Coach Jakus, as so much turnover surrounded the program, Tre announced via social media that he was staying in Boca for this season.

I love y’all❤️ pic.twitter.com/zOhiNzYTI1
— Tre Carroll (@Tre_Carroll12) April 8, 2024

After bringing 11 new hoopers, alongside an entirely new staff to Boca Raton, Tre stepped up as the team’s leader, paving a way to continue the culture of excellence that’s surrounded FAU Basketball in recent years. As the season began, we got treated to a much larger dose of Tre Carroll basketball. Through the first 15 games of the season Tre Carroll has averaged:

17.8 Minutes

11.7 PPG

4.3 Rebounds

55.7% True Shooting

34% 3PT

Tr3 way

FAU ( @FAUMBB ) Tre Carroll with the put back

🎥 @Rangeman_Films X @ShotsbyJN pic.twitter.com/8X63jbjhlN
— Films, Rangeman Media (@Rangeman_Films) January 5, 2025

As Tre emerged as a star on this squad, his role continued to increase. Carroll has proven himself as the most reliable big on FAU’s roster, throwing down double figures and 5+ boards practically every night, while providing very solid defensive fortitude. Ahead of the Owls’ matchup vs East Carolina, it was announced that Tre Carroll would be receiving his first career collegiate start.

Carroll rose to the occasion, recording:

17 Points

58.3% FG

4 Rebounds

3 Assists

2 Blocks

2 Steals

Tre’s breakout performance was needed for the Owls, as they barely closed out a 78-76 nail biter against the Pirates. Following the game, Tre spoke about his performance in his first career start, and stated that “It was a dream come true”.

They call him Tre Money for a reason 💸💸

Carroll cashes in from deep to extend the Owls lead to 77-41 with 9:31 remaining 🦉 pic.twitter.com/RHxAEF9QBM
— FAU Owls Nest (@FAU_Owls_Nest) October 26, 2024

Carroll’s outstanding performances haven’t gone unnoticed, as he’s racked up multiple AAC Weekly Honors, including a Player of the Week nod.