Alys Ison

Written by Alys Ison

Published: 11 Jul 2025

35-facts-about-cole-swider
Source: Indystar.com

Who is Cole Swider? If you've been following college basketball or the NBA, you might have heard his name. Cole Swider is a talented basketball player known for his sharpshooting skills and versatility on the court. Born on May 8, 1999, in Portsmouth, Rhode Island, Swider played college basketball for the Villanova Wildcats before transferring to Syracuse University. Standing at 6'9", he has the height and agility to make a significant impact in games. Swider's journey from high school standout to college star and now a professional player is filled with interesting moments and achievements. Want to know more about this rising star? Here are 35 facts about Cole Swider that will give you a deeper look into his life and career.

Table of Contents

Early Life and Background

Cole Swider's journey to basketball stardom began long before he hit the professional courts. Here are some fascinating facts about his early life and background.

  1. Born in Rhode Island: Cole Swider was born on May 8, 1999, in Portsmouth, Rhode Island, a small town known for its scenic views and tight-knit community.

  2. Family of Athletes: Swider comes from a family with a strong athletic background. His father, Jeff Swider, played college basketball at Fordham University.

  3. High School Star: Cole attended St. Andrew's School in Barrington, Rhode Island, where he quickly made a name for himself as a basketball prodigy.

  4. Early Recognition: By his sophomore year, Swider was already attracting attention from college scouts and was considered one of the top prospects in his state.

  5. Multi-Sport Athlete: Besides basketball, Cole also played baseball and soccer during his high school years, showcasing his versatile athletic abilities.

College Career

Cole Swider's college career was marked by significant achievements and memorable moments. Let's dive into some key facts about his time in college.

  1. Villanova Wildcats: Swider initially committed to Villanova University, a powerhouse in college basketball, where he played for three seasons.

  2. Freshman Year Impact: During his freshman year at Villanova, Swider averaged 3.5 points per game, showing glimpses of his potential.

  3. Sophomore Surge: In his sophomore year, he improved his stats, averaging 6.1 points and 2.9 rebounds per game, becoming a more integral part of the team.

  4. Transfer to Syracuse: After three seasons with Villanova, Swider transferred to Syracuse University, seeking a fresh start and more playing time.

  5. Immediate Impact at Syracuse: In his first season with the Syracuse Orange, Cole averaged 13.9 points and 6.8 rebounds per game, proving his worth as a key player.

Professional Aspirations

Cole Swider's professional aspirations have always been clear. His dedication and hard work have paved the way for a promising career in basketball.

  1. Declared for NBA Draft: After his successful stint at Syracuse, Swider declared for the 2022 NBA Draft, aiming to take his talents to the next level.

  2. Undrafted but Determined: Despite not being drafted, Cole remained determined to make it to the NBA, showcasing his resilience and passion for the game.

  3. Summer League Opportunity: Swider participated in the NBA Summer League, where he impressed scouts with his shooting and versatility.

  4. G-League Stint: Cole played in the NBA G-League, gaining valuable experience and honing his skills against other aspiring professionals.

  5. NBA Debut: Swider eventually made his NBA debut, fulfilling a lifelong dream and proving that hard work and perseverance pay off.

Playing Style and Skills

Cole Swider's playing style and skills set him apart on the court. Here are some insights into what makes him a standout player.

  1. Sharp Shooter: Known for his exceptional shooting ability, Swider is a threat from beyond the arc, making him a valuable asset for any team.

  2. Versatile Forward: Standing at 6'9", Cole's versatility allows him to play both forward positions, providing flexibility in various lineups.

  3. Basketball IQ: Swider's high basketball IQ enables him to make smart decisions on the court, whether it's finding the open man or taking a crucial shot.

  4. Rebounding Prowess: His height and athleticism make him an effective rebounder, often securing crucial boards for his team.

  5. Defensive Skills: While primarily known for his offense, Cole's defensive skills have also improved, making him a more well-rounded player.

Personal Life

Beyond the basketball court, Cole Swider has a life filled with interesting hobbies and personal achievements. Let's explore some aspects of his personal life.

  1. Close-Knit Family: Cole remains close to his family, often crediting them for his success and support throughout his career.

  2. Community Involvement: Swider is actively involved in community service, frequently participating in charity events and youth basketball clinics.

  3. Passion for Music: Outside of basketball, Cole has a passion for music and enjoys playing the guitar during his downtime.

  4. Travel Enthusiast: Swider loves to travel and explore new places, often sharing his adventures on social media.

  5. Role Model: Cole serves as a role model for young athletes, inspiring them to pursue their dreams with dedication and hard work.

Fun Facts

Here are some fun and lesser-known facts about Cole Swider that add to his intriguing persona.

  1. Nickname: Cole's teammates often call him "Swish" due to his accurate shooting.

  2. Favorite NBA Player: Growing up, Swider idolized NBA legend Larry Bird, modeling his game after the Hall of Famer.

  3. Pre-Game Ritual: Cole has a unique pre-game ritual that includes listening to his favorite playlist and visualizing his performance on the court.

  4. Favorite Food: Swider loves Italian cuisine, with pasta being his go-to meal before games.

  5. Dog Lover: Cole has a pet dog named Max, who often makes appearances on his social media accounts.

Achievements and Awards

Cole Swider's career is decorated with numerous achievements and awards that highlight his talent and hard work.

  1. High School Accolades: During his high school career, Swider earned multiple All-State honors and was named Rhode Island Gatorade Player of the Year.

  2. College Honors: At Syracuse, Cole received All-ACC Honorable Mention, recognizing his outstanding performance during the season.

  3. NBA G-League Recognition: Swider's impressive play in the G-League earned him a spot on the All-Rookie Team, showcasing his potential at the professional level.

  4. Community Awards: For his community service efforts, Cole has received several awards, highlighting his commitment to giving back.

  5. Fan Favorite: Swider's engaging personality and on-court skills have made him a fan favorite, with a growing following on social media.

Final Thoughts on Cole Swider

Cole Swider's journey in basketball is nothing short of inspiring. From his early days in Rhode Island to playing for Villanova and Syracuse, he's shown dedication and skill. His ability to adapt and grow as a player is evident in his stats and the respect he garners from teammates and coaches alike. Off the court, Swider's commitment to community service and his positive attitude make him a role model for young athletes. Whether you're a fan of college basketball or just love a good underdog story, Swider's career offers plenty to admire. Keep an eye on him as he continues to make waves in the basketball world. His story is a testament to hard work, perseverance, and the importance of staying true to oneself. Here's to more slam dunks and three-pointers in his future!

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