Gilchrist Named One Of Dick Vitale's 'Super Sophs' For 2003-04
9/23/2003 8:00:00 AM | Men's Basketball
Sept. 23, 2003
COLLEGE PARK, Md. - Maryland second-year point guard John Gilchrist (Virginia Beach, Va.) was named one of five "Super Sophomores" last week by ESPN's Dick Vitale. Gilchrist, a fierce competitor and physical player at the point, will be one of several Terrapins expected to assume a leadership role on Maryland's young but talented squad in the upcoming 2003-04 season.
As a freshman, Gilchrist was able to showcase his playmaking abilities and flair for competition as the primary backup to four-year starter and current Washington Wizard Steve Blake. As a rookie Gilchrist was third on the team in assists with 52, trailing only Blake and Drew Nicholas. He averaged 4.6 points per game for the season, and shot .833 from the field to average 5.3 ppg during the Terps' postseason run to the NCAA Sweet Sixteen.
"John was probably as good as any freshman guard in the ACC last year," said Maryland head coach Gary Williams, set to begin his 15th season in College Park when Midnight Madness begins on Friday, Oct. 17. "He gave us some very valuable minutes, and with his strength and determination, he is a very effective point guard."
Joining Gilchrist on Vitale's list of "Super Sophomores" was Syracuse guard Billy Edelin, Arizona forward Andre Iguodala, Duke forward Shavlik Randolph and Michigan State forward Paul Davis.
Said Vitale of Gilchrist, "Maryland will need solid point guard play with the departure of four-year star Steve Blake. They'll get it from John Gilchrist. He showed his physical and mental strength and toughness last year against Duke. He also has a great basketball IQ, which should help him enjoy a solid sophomore season."
Read Vitale's complete column on ESPN.com.
