Backups Step Up — Men’s Basketball finds ways to replace injured point guard

Point guard is widely considered the most important position in basketball. They must protect the ball, run the team’s offense, and provide leadership on the court.

So when starting point guard Anthony Wash, Redford junior, went down with a torn anterior cruciate ligament against Olivet on Jan. 4, it was a huge blow for the Britons. Wash had been playing close to 28 minutes per game, ranking second on the team in scoring with 9.6 ppg while averaging 2.3 assists per contest.

Head coach Jody May said that while Wash’s injury hurts, the Britons have enough depth to account for the loss.

“We certainly miss Anthony and he’s a big part of what we are doing,” May said. “I think the team has stepped up and done really well without him.”

Two players who saw their playing time increase as a result of Wash’s injury are Sean Hendon, Fremont senior, and Zach Hurth, Lansing first-year. The pair have alternated as the starter at point guard for the Britons since the injury.

“Sean’s really stepped up. He came in and started the game after I got injured,” Wash said. “Zach has had to step up too, because he plays my position.”

It is Hendon’s first season at point guard. Coaches moved him over from the shooting guard position during the preseason to add more depth. Hendon said the switch was difficult and awkward at first.

“I felt pressure to come in there and take over doing exactly what he (Wash) did,” Hendon said.

However, since Hendon has grown more comfortable in the position, It’s safe to say that move has paid off.

“After being here for four years I know the offense well,” Hendon said. “I do a pretty good job of getting people into the offense, and controlling the flow of the game.”

Continued strong play at the point guard position is critical if the Britons are to finish as one of the top four teams in the MIAA and qualify for the MIAA Tournament.

Photo Courtesy of Albion College

About Dan Myckowiak 43 Articles
Dan is a senior Political Science major from Detroit, Michigan. He loves Detroit sports, and his favorite team is the Michigan State Spartans. Dan currently serves as editor of the Opinion section, and is formerly a managing editor, and editor of the Sports section for the Pleiad. Follow Dan on Twitter.

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