Dunkin’ Dogs star duo focused on growth and unity

Ruston, La. (KTVE/KARD) — Louisiana Tech men’s basketball began their offseason program this week, and with the ever-changing landscape of college sports they weren’t subjects of bringing back a completely new team, but they did have to replace a few pieces from last year’s squad. Bringing back players like Louisiana Tech senior center Daniel Batcho has certainly eased some nerves and also saved Louisiana Tech men’s basketball head coach Talvin Hester a few nightmares.

“I think the portal opened March 15th or May 1st– every day. It was the worst 45 days of my life, I promise you that. May 2nd was great, I’m happy he’s back, and I know the team is happy he’s back. I always tell these guys that’s we’re dream chasers, and we’re still going to chase the same dream that we did for Isaiah [Crawford] and for [Kenneth Lofton] Junior and hopefully we can get it accomplished,” said Hester.

There’s also a lot of excitement surrounding the growth of Louisiana Tech junior guard Sean Newman Jr. after a season where he opened a lot of eyes averaging over seven points per game and led Conference USA in total assists, and he’s examining every area he can improve on to have an even better season in 2024.

“I feel like there were times where I wasn’t strong mentally and I feel like it took a toll on the team, so being more disciplined. Those are the main things and staying consistent with what I’m doing in the gym,” said Newman Jr.

Hester also is never hesitant to applaud the growth he has already taken as a leader and said last year was only the beginning for Newman Jr.

“I don’t know if people remember this, but I stood in front of all these same cameras and I said Sean Newman is going to be special. We took him to media day last year because I thought he had some leadership qualities that I hope he can keep dialing up and tuning up. I think he’s dynamic and we want him to be more of a scorer this year. He led the league in assists, but we want him to look for his a little more while not taking away from his unselfish play and get other guys involved and if he can do that, I think you’ll see a special guard again.”

The Dunkin’ Dogs will open conference play on January 2nd against the University of Texas El Paso.