Going Positive

[DoctorV]

Quite encouraged by the recent play of Owens. Folks were giving up on him (and Parham too) way too early. Young players develop at different paces, and it's been fun watching DO play more freely, with more confidence and spirit, lately. He had several huge plays last night.

If he can continue to improve - and there's really no reason he can't - we'll have him, Parham, James and Stevens as a solid core. Plus Egbuonu, Sheek and an improved Phillips. Hopefully add a couple of good players through the portal, and that's a team that can win next season and beyond.

Missed the last 2 games because of work dinner meetings and being at the office.

Saw highlights and he looked much better offensively, but curious if the defense looked improved and if he looked more engaged on that end of the floor?

I did see a video on twitter that was one of the best Marquette basketball related things I've seen this season-
It was a video at the end of last nights game from the baseline that showed Royce and DO celebrating together and Royce really getting in Damarius' chest talking him up.
It was great to see, given the history/connectivity of those two prior to Marquette and the adversity DO has seen prior to some recent improvement.

Those two are in year 3 together after a great final season in prep school.
Love to see Royce encouraging his guy and trying to give him extra confidence going forward, that's what relationships and leadership are about.

[tower912]

DO made the defensive play of the night. 

[Viper]

Attacking the rim, DO is a beast. Somewhat unorthodox outside shot, but works for him. I think his potential is awesome. I'm psyched for Friday's game at Butler. 

[MU82]

Missed the last 2 games because of work dinner meetings and being at the office.

Saw highlights and he looked much better offensively, but curious if the defense looked improved and if he looked more engaged on that end of the floor?

I did see a video on twitter that was one of the best Marquette basketball related things I've seen this season-
It was a video at the end of last nights game from the baseline that showed Royce and DO celebrating together and Royce really getting in Damarius' chest talking him up.
It was great to see, given the history/connectivity of those two prior to Marquette and the adversity DO has seen prior to some recent improvement.

Those two are in year 3 together after a great final season in prep school.
Love to see Royce encouraging his guy and trying to give him extra confidence going forward, that's what relationships and leadership are about.

Still a work in progress defensively - and offensively, for that matter - but as tier said, DO made a huge steal that enabled us to tie it at the end of regulation.