This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2011, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
The stats for freshman point guard James Walker weren't much against Fresno State. Three points, 1-2 shooting, an assist.....but there were no turnovers, and the offense ran smoothly in what was Walker's most extended stint of minutes this season.
Walker played 12 minutes in the first half of Utah State's 71-55 win over Fresno. In doing so, he proved that, yes, the Aggies are capable of solid back-up point guard play. It's something that's been a huge question mark for the last three years, as Jared Quayle and now Brockeith Pane have both seen extended minutes because Stew Morrill felt most comfortable with them on the floor.
Walker was a game-manager, which is what the Aggies need out of that position. He made sure to get the ball to the scorers, he made a jumper when it presented itself. Most importantly, Walker defended and defended very well. He caused at least two turnovers with his length and athleticism. And for now, he seems to have a hold on the back-up spot, heading into Montana-Western and St. Mary's.
Tony Jones