LeJuan Watts is stepping into the spotlight with a mix of determination and confidence that Texas Tech fans have been eager to see. As the preseason Big 12 newcomer of the year, Watts came to Texas Tech ready to fill the shoes left by Darrion Williams. Both players share similar builds and put up comparable numbers last season, with Watts showcasing his skills at Washington State.
From day one, head coach Grant McCasland recognized Watts' potential, but there were areas that needed refinement. Turnovers and defensive awareness were the initial hurdles, and Watts had to find his groove as the third option behind JT Toppin and Christian Anderson.
Conference play was a roller coaster for Watts. He burst onto the scene with a strong 19-point, 9-rebound performance against Oklahoma State, but consistency became an issue as the competition intensified.
In the first 13 conference games, Watts hit double figures only three times, experiencing a slump that included four consecutive games scoring under 10 points. His shooting struggled, and old habits crept back in.
When Toppin suffered a season-ending injury, the spotlight turned to Watts as the player who needed to step up. And step up he did.
In the two games since, Watts has averaged 16 points on 10-of-18 shooting, leading Texas Tech to victories over Kansas State and Cincinnati. But the stats only tell part of the story.
Watts' growth has been a key focus for McCasland since the summer.
"It's been gradual up to this point," McCasland remarked after the 80-68 win over Cincinnati. "But I think he's an anchor now. I've really challenged him, not just in terms of strategy, but in personal development to stay balanced and take smart shots."
Watts is known for his fun-loving demeanor, always quick to celebrate with teammates. This joyful nature sometimes translates into an erratic play style. McCasland pointed out that Watts' offensive struggles often stem from poor shot mechanics, particularly his foot positioning, which has led to missed opportunities and turnovers.
"LeJuan is artistic and vibrant," McCasland said. "He plays with flair, but I've told him to simplify his game. Use that energy in communication, but be solid and physical on the court."
Watts’ 6-foot-6 frame is a major asset, allowing him to maneuver effectively in the post, using head-fakes to outsmart larger defenders in the paint. This versatility is crucial for Texas Tech's faster-paced offense.
With Toppin out, Watts understands his increased importance to the team. He's embraced the challenge, displaying the determination Texas Tech has been looking for all season. As March approaches, the pressure is on.
"With JT out, we all need to step up," Watts said. "I’ve taken on a bigger role in the offense, filling the gap of 20 points and 10 rebounds. I’ve been working on my footwork and hook shots, just stepping up for the team."
McCasland has always believed in Watts' potential to lead. Now, with the stakes higher, Watts is proving he's ready to contribute in all facets, not just scoring. Decision-making is key, and McCasland is confident Watts will rise to the occasion.
"Given our current situation, I've pushed him hard," McCasland said. "But he comes in every day eager to improve, and he's been crucial for us recently. He'll continue to be a big part of our success moving forward."