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TEXAS LONGHORNS
Lucas brings intangibles to Longhorns
By Laken Litman
The Daily Texan - Thursday, Jan. 21
Though Longhorn guard Jai Lucas has not scored the most points — only 44 in nine games and has only played 116 minutes, his teammates recognize that sometimes being a good team player is not just about game recognition or court appearances.
"Being on a team this good, and when I started playing [in December] they were already so good, I didn't really need to impact that much," Lucas said. "But I do contribute where I can. I try to be a spark player and come off the bench and try to change the game when I get that chance."
Lucas, a junior transfer from the University of Florida who became NCAA eligible during winter break, played his first game in burnt orange against North Carolina on Dec. 15.
Lucas'breakout game this season was against Arkansas a few weeks ago in which he played 21 minutes, totaled a game-high three assists and added seven points. There's still a long road ahead this season, and Lucas is a key part of the
Horns'rotation.
Once Lucas started playing for Texas, the team was already on the road to the No.1 spot, and he didn't have to contribute that much. However, his motivation and mood-lightening skills were important intangibles.
"You have to keep everyone at ease," he said. "When you're about to play a big game, you don't want your teammates to be too tight or too intense because then you mess up under pressure. I always remember to love the game. That's the way I approach it, and I try to rub it off on the other guys."
Texas guard Jai Lucas battles for the ball with Colorado guard Nate Thompson during a 1.9 game in Austin. Lucas transferred from Florida and started playing for Texas in December.
It's apparent that the Longhorns are on a fierce run to win it all this season. With serious attitudes and a "can't lose" mentality, the team needs to remember to have fun and keep the mood upbeat. And that's where Lucas' pep comes in.
ASSOCIATED PRESS
THE UNIVERSITY DAILY KANSAN
THE WAVE JANUARY 25, 2010
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