No question this past season the team took its leadership and identity from Omar....behind him, imo, was Mickey M., perhaps in a 75/25 ratio of Omar to Mickey

His quiet proclivity of hitting back breaking 3's or offering up a nasty hard foul is one of the great memories I have of the season.

Next season, I expect nothing less from the senior.  He has the perfect demeanor to lead the team to victory.  Steady would be the adjective I would use; not too high, not to low....consistent.  Watching replays, you can't tell from his expressions whether the team is winning or losing.

Who next season will step up to be that foil/complement to Mickey?

Examining the roster and personalities, I believe that Rob Jones could be that guy....during the season, you could see him keeping the bench loose during time outs and was a tremendous fan in encouraging his team mates.  He has big game experience as seen from his time at USD and will likely be contributing over 10 points per game as a Gael.  (career line is 9.2 points and 5.7 rebounds per game while averaging only 26.3 minutes)  As a redshirt junior, one has the feeling he has been chomping at the bit this year in watching his team mates success.

Obviously, I don't want to add extra burden on his broad shoulders but I see Rob as the "vocal/face" of the team next season.  He has acquitted himself well with the media over the years within the combination of his athletic prowess and his family history.

To what ratio a Mickey and Rob would produce?  Perhaps closer to 50/50 because certainly, there likely won't be another Omar for a number of years....

Jake C, '94