[2023] Week 5 POTW

[SageBow]

Week 5 POTW

SG Nicholas Garcia, SMC, 54 Points, 22 Rebounds, 8 Assists, 1 Steal, 4 Blocks

27 Points, 16 Rebounds, 4 Assists, 1 Steal, 1 Block in a 99-85 W vs Houston

27 Points, 6 Rebounds, 4 Assists, 3 Blocks in a 71-91 L vs South Dakota State

Congratulations Nicholas on winning Week 5 National Offensive Player of the Week. What does this award mean to you?

It means a lot that people are recognizing my game. I care about getting to the tournament more though

Your performance in the game against Houston was particularly outstanding. 27 points, 16 rebounds, 4 assists, 1 steal, and 1 block—it's hard to find a player who contributes across the board like that. Can you walk us through that game and what was going through your mind?

You just gotta do whatever it the team needs to win. Simple as that. We need a bucket? I can do that. We need a rebound? I can do that. Play defense? I'm clamping up. Always fighting till its over.

It's clear that teamwork played a big part in your success. Can you tell us about your relationship with your teammates and how it contributes to your performance on the court?

Its a winning culture here. We all love and support each other. Ive been on the national championship team like some of my other teammates and thats carried over to some of the newer, younger guys. We got dawgs on this team and we aint ever quitting.

That's great to hear. On the flip side, in the game against South Dakota State, you had another impressive performance, even though the team didn't secure the win. 27 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists, and 3 blocks, it's clear that you bring your A-game every time. How do you stay motivated and maintain your high level of performance, even in tough losses?

The goal is ultimately a championship and this is a new group and we all learning each other. Just got to keep working and contributing no matter what.

Well said, Nicholas. Looking ahead, what are your goals and aspirations for the rest of the season, and how do you plan to build on your recent success?

Goals are always a championship. Just keep grinding, following the plan and process and results will follow.

That's a great mindset to have. Nicholas, thank you for taking the time to talk to us today. We'll be eagerly following your journey and cheering for Saint Mary's. Best of luck in your future games.

This article was written with the help of @Migi

Week 1 POTW - PG William Smith, SJU

Week 2 POTW - SG Jeffrey Luedtke, MIAF

Week 3 POTW - C Henry Gonzales, UCI

Week 4 POTW - PF Pedro Rodriguez, PURD

Edited November 8, 2023 by SageBow