Drew Cayce (#5 | 6-1 | 165 | G | Fr.)
Don’t just dismiss this kid because he’s a walk-on. He has enough skill and scrap to bring the best out of even the most talented scholarship players on the roster. As a spot up shooter he’s very accurate, and is unorthodox shot makes him tricky to guard on the perimeter. He’ll be a valuable addition to the scout team because of his ability to shoot, but also because he never quits. He’ll fight and scrap for every rebound and loose ball.
He missed the last week or so leading up to the exhibition game with a concussion, but he should return soon and help the team prepare for the season. With experience players like Tyler Clement and Marcus Foster getting into driving lanes and creating for others, having Cayce on the perimeter ready to knock down shots will help the Bluejays stay sharp defensively when it comes time to tip off the games that actually count in the standings.
La Lumiere High School (La Porte, Indiana)
- averaged 9.8 points and 2.8 assists per game as a senior team captain
- finished third on team in scoring as a junior on team that was ranked fifth nationally by USA Today
- played for former Creighton player Alan Huss
Head Coach Greg McDermott on Cayce:
“Drew can shoot the daylights out of the basketball. He’s learning and the physical nature of the college game has been an adjustment for him, but he’s been a great teammate. We’re glad to have him on the team.”
5-on-5 with Drew Cayce
Q: What were the factors in why you decided to play at Creighton?
A: “When I came on my visit I just really connected with the coaches, and I noticed how close the team was. I had heard in high school that it’s rare for college teams to be really close like a brotherhood, and that was one of the first things I noticed when I came on my visit. That really drew me, because that’s how it was in high school. The facilities are also second to none, so it was kind of a no-brainer for me.”
Q: What has been the most challenging part of the transition from high school to college?
A: “Normally playing in high school and AAU you’re one of the go-to guys and in a leadership role, and that’s what I focused on when I was younger. Coming here as a walk-on and having to find my role has been really humbling for me. Just going as hard as I can every day, being in the gym more, and having less free time is kind of different. As the school has gone on I’ve kind of been getting used to it, and handling it pretty well.”
Q: The team was picked ninth in the preseason poll. What did you think of that selection, and what are your expectations for this group this season?
A: “I think a lot of people in the Big East are going to be surprised with how we come out this year. We have a lot of players that are new, Cole and Maurice are available this year. I don’t think people are expecting us to do too well, but seeing how we play with each other, and moving without the ball in practice, I really think we’re going to surprise a lot of people. I think we’re going to have a really successful year.”
Q: When the schedule came out, what game or trip did you circle as one you are looking forward to the most?
A: “I went to high school around Indiana University, so I have a lot of friends and family that live out in that area. Playing down in Assembly Hall is going to be a great experience.”
Q: When your time at Creighton is over, what will you have hoped to accomplish in your career as a Bluejay?
A: “I just kind of want to define my role. Being a walk-on you don’t get a lot of publicity or people talking about you, but it’s more a behind the scenes kind of thing, just getting the guys ready, scout team, and getting the guys prepared for each game. I think that’s really important. I just want to be a winning player, have a lot of wins under my belt, and just have a good time.”
