PERTH, Western Australia --- When Josh Throns arrives to campus this fall he can expect to be received with open arms from all around, not only because of his towering height and excellent basketball skills, but also because of his Australian heritage.
 
He will pick up the reigns from Stephen Day as Biola Athletics' token Australian-born student-athlete and will have a chance to make an impact on the court for Dr. Dave Holmquist for the next four years.
 
"As a Christian, Biola is the perfect place for me to grow in my faith and play basketball. Philippians 4:13!" said Throns.
 
Throns was homeschooled throughout his secondary school education, and he graduated with a 3.75 cumulative grade point average. He intends to major in physical education with a concentration in teaching/coaching.
 
Since he was homeschooled, Throns had to work on his game in the State Basketball League in Western Australia. He spent the last two seasons playing in that league and working on his game as a shooting guard and wingman.
 
He was the only rookie in the league to get named to the SBL All-Star team during the 2013 season, and he earned that honor by garnering attention with two rookie of the week honors and one rookie of the month honor.
 
Throns size, strength and shooting will be on display in J. Richard Chase Gymnasium when the men's basketball season kicks off Oct. 31 against Fresno Pacific.