Prentiss Hubb Ascending In ACC Play
Notre Dame point guard Prentiss Hubb is quietly having a solid season for a true freshman. Yes, there was the shooting slump, but the 6-foot-3 Maryland native has broken out of it.
Hubb has scored in double-figures in three of the last six games, including a career-high of 18 points at North Carolina.
As he gains more experience in ACC, the more confidence Hubb has gained. In fact, Hubb broke out against Boston College on January 12th for 16 points, six rebounds and five assists. He also hit the game-winning free throws with seconds left to play.
“I take every game the same,” stated Hubb. “Every team is going to have good players in the ACC. You can’t get too high on myself. We have a long season ahead of us and we have a lot of work to do, especially with this losing streak. I have to do everything I can to help my team win.”
Experience is always a keyword at this level of competition and Hubb’s ascension could very well be attributed to just that.
“I learned there are no days off in the ACC,” said Gibbs. “All of these teams are great. I have to help my team do whatever I can to win. It’s key for me to finish around the rim and make open shots.”
When Hubb arrived in South Bend in June, it was unclear if he was going to be able to play this season after tearing his ACL last winter.
“I haven’t really worried about my knee since I was cleared to play,” Hubb said. “Coach (Tony) Rolinski has done a great job with me. He’s helped me get my knee back to where it’s supposed to be.”
Those questions were answered when Hubb was cleared in just in time for fall practice and he hasn’t looked back. Hubb has also impressed head coach Mike Brey with his ability to play without any side effects of the injury.
“We tested him and I was intrigued with him on Sunday,” Brey explained. “We tested his explosion. He’s good and trending the right way, but to have a summer of being able to play and work on his game will help him. Down the stretch, I want him to go for it and let it rip.”
The season is far from over, but Hubb knows his head coach is right. This offseason will be a significant one for him as he can take his game to the next level by simply being healthy.
“I have to work harder in the gym, especially in the weight room to get a lot stronger,” said Hubb. “I think it will help me with my athleticism and being able to control the ball a lot more and to finish around the rim.”