We are profiling each member of the 2011-12 Creighton men’s basketball team. Join us weekdays from now until the men’s exhibition opener against Rockhurst for an introduction to this year’s Bluejays, from freshmen to seniors.
See all of our 2011-12 Creighton men’s basketball profiles
Grant Gibbs is finally ready to resume his college hoops career (Marshall/WBR)
Grant Gibbs became a college basketball player in 2008. Granted, he redshirted his first season at Gonzaga, but he was part of a program that went to the NCAA Tournament as a #4 seed in 2008-09. The next year, Gibbs played in 24 games as the Zags advanced to the second round of the Big Dance. He left Spokane and transferred to Creighton, where he rehabbed from injuries and intended to reroute the course of his college basketball career.
“I’m really excited to play again,” Gibbs told WBR. “I did not plan on having the surgery, but it actually helped out a lot. The rehab has been great and I feel great. I am excited to contribute this season.”
For those who aren’t familiar with Gibbs’ game, the 6-4 junior guard can contribute in many ways. He is comfortable playing the two- or three-spots in Creighton’s offense, and can even handle the basketball at the point.
“I consider myself a passer first,” Gibbs said. “I did play a bit of the point in high school and some “two” at Gonzaga, so I know how to look for other opportunities. But I think I have the ability to hit shots as well. We have focused a lot on getting the ball into the post this season, and creating opportunities for Greg [Echenique] and Doug [McDermott].”
It is no secret that Greg McDermott and his staff see offensive success on the low blocks as crucial to this team’s success. Gibbs is eager to help facilitate that performance, both with his play and his leadership.
“I have been practicing a lot at the “two” and the “three,” and I feel comfortable at both positions,” Gibbs said. “I think the coaches want me to have a more vocal leadership role this season, as it was something that was missing last year. With my personality, it is a role I would feel comfortable with.”
Gibbs had an opportunity in game time to lead by example when he and his teammates travelled to the Bahamas this summer. Gibbs averaged 8 points and repeatedly found open teammates during the exhibition games, offering a brief example of what CU fans can hope to expect from the redshirt junior.
“The Bahamas trip was a lot of fun,” he said. “It was a great opportunity for the team to come together, and it was a great experience for our new guys and redshirts like me to get some extra practice.”