Story Poster
Notre Dame Basketball

Hubb Embracing Critical Role

October 18, 2018
3,685

Mike Brey has created a culture based on upperclassmen carrying most of the weight, but every now and then, he will lean on a freshman to play big minutes. TJ Gibbs was called on to play big minutes the moment he stepped on campus, and this year it will be point guard Prentiss Hubb. 

The 6-foot-3, 167-pounder figures to start this season to allow Gibbs to play off the ball and Hubb is preparing to play a significant role. 

“I see how important I am to the team, but it’s not just me that’s important,” stated Hubb. “My teammates are just as important because they are ones that have to bring me up. Stepping into the shoes Matt Farrell left, he was a great point guard here and stepping into that role, I feel like I’m ready for it.”

Hubb has been taken under the wing of Gibbs, and the junior guard has shown the freshman the ropes of being the point guard at Notre Dame. 

“I’m following behind TJ right now,” explained Hubb. “He’s leading me down the right path. TJ has been there ever since I got here on June 6th. He’s been in my ear telling me how I can get better. He tells me how he needs me and the team needs me to produce. 

“Rex (Pflueger) and EB (Elijah Burns) have helped me a lot to get confident. They let me know I have the capability of being a key player on this team.” 

As if it wasn't difficult enough to step in and play in the ACC, Hubb is coming off an ACL injury that sidelined him for most of his senior season. 

“I’m feeling great,” Hubb said. “I don’t really think about it when I’m playing. It’s just like I took a little break and I picked it back up from where I left off. I don’t feel like I play timid or anything because of my injury.”

The Maryland native looked smooth and healthy during Sunday’s open practice, and Hubb hopes to show his full game from game one.

“I’m a crafty point guard who can find others and shoot the ball really well,” explained Hubb. “I want to bring excitement and energy to the team.

“I’m able to take people off the dribble and find my teammates.” 

Gibbs might have played point guard at a high level in the absence of Farrell last year, but Hubb is a true point guard, and he takes great pride in being able to score and distribute. 

“I’m confident in being able to run the point guard position,” said Hubb. “I’ve played point guard since I got to high school. Being able to handle the ball is one of my points of emphasis in my game. I take pride in handling the ball.” 

 
×
subscribe Verify your student status
See Subscription Benefits
Trial only available to users who have never subscribed or participated in a previous trial.