Damian Saunders Enrolls at Dusquesne
Damian Saunders was one of the hottest names in the country last fall. After spending the previous four years at Crosby High School in Waterbury, CT the long and athletic forward had recently arrived at Notre Dame Prep where he would spend his post-graduate season. In only a couple of short months the growth to Saunders’ game was forcing high major college coaches to take notice.
He was still doing all of the things that had made him a star at Crosby like blocking shots, running the floor, and finishing above the rim. But his body was dramatically improved with about 20 pounds of muscle, his ball skills had been polished to the point where he could handle in the open court or create off the bounce in a half-court set, and he was seeing the floor and creating for teammates like he had never done before.
With such rapid improvement it was no surprise when schools like Tennessee, Providence, Marquette, and Cincinatti were all locked up in a recruiting war for his services. Ultimately it was Tom Creen and his Marquette program that won out for Saunders’ services.
But whispers began earlier this summer that the commitment might not hold up. And when Saunders’ coach at Notre Dame Prep last year arrived at Dusquesne, the talented forward was not far behind.
"Damian is just a great kid," said Barton according to the school’s website. "He is an explosive run-and-jump athlete. He is effortless in transition and a very good rebounder. I think his freshman year impact will be on the defensive end and in transition. Damian had a number of offers from Big East schools. He will be a great addition to the Duquesne program."
Dusquesne Head Coach Ron Everheart echoed the sentiments of his new assistant coach. "Damian is a great addition to our ballclub," he said. "He's a great athlete and a real solid player. I'm pleased to have him with us at Duquesne. He will add additional depth and athleticism to our ballclub."
Saunders’ arrival will help to offset the departure of Atlantic 10 Rookie of the Year Robert Mitchell who left school earlier in the week.
Damian Saunders