JOSH GASSER »» MEN'S BASKETBALL BADGERING...
After two years of apprenticing under former Badgers All-American Jordan Taylor and playing both point guard and shooting guard, Josh Gasser is poised to not only take over the ball-handling reigns, but also surface as the team's unsung leader heading into the 2012-13 season.
What steps are you taking to be more of a leader and fill the void at point guard? "This year I think we're going to have a more collective group of guys taking over that role. It's tough to match what Jordan (Taylor) brought to the team, but we feel like we're in good hands with this group we have now. In terms of the point guard position, George Marshall is playing really well, along with Traevon Jackson, who's been stepping up. I'm also doing what I can to fill that role, so it's going to be more of a collective effort trying to fill Jordan's absence this season."
How has the new NCAA practice rule helped in the progression of the team overall? "It seems like we're ahead of schedule at this point — I think every team in the country probably feels that way, too, but I think it's really beneficial for the younger guys coming in. The freshmen have gotten to know the coaches and had a chance to work with teammates and run the offense — it makes them more prepared heading into that first practice in October. Obviously we're ahead of schedule and it helps a lot."
How are the newcomers doing in acclimating themselves to the college game? "So far they've adjusted really well. Sam (Dekker) and Zak (Showalter) are two guys who work really hard and fit in well, both in the locker room and on the court. They're both playing really well right now, and both will definitely contribute this year, whether it's on scout team or getting minutes for us. Those two have adjusted really well to the college scene and will be very good players here moving forward."
How anxious are you to take on leadership after two years under solid senior classes? "I want that role. Once you're a junior, it's your time to be that leader on the team and get things going — we're all basically stepping into that role. I definitely want the ball in my hands a little bit more, whether I'm at the point or the off-guard position this year. I'm going to try and make more plays for us this season, and hopefully my leadership reflects my performance on the court."
26 » VARSITY OCTOBER 25, 2012
