Northwestern Basketball Player Review: Sanjay Lumpkin

Over the next few weeks, I will review each player on Northwestern's basketball team and go over what they need to improve  for next season. Up first is senior forward Sanjay Lumpkin

**Lumpkin was a senior this past season, so he will not return next season (Wow! Great insight, Captain Obvious). Therefore, there will be no category on what he needs to improve.**

Lumpkin (34) brought his heart and toughness every time
he stepped on the floor.

Season Review: Sanjay, Sanjay, Sanjay. I don't know what to say. He was the heart and soul of Northwestern basketball. He suffered through some of the worst seasons and games in the history of Northwestern basketball, but no matter how bad things were he gave constant effort and worked his hardest. He was a tireless worker at both ends of the floor, which made up for his disadvantage in athleticism in most match-ups. He started 126 games (a program record). His offensive repertoire was limited, but he made good use of the skills he had. He was fairly consistent at hitting an open corner three. He had a great shot-fake, which allowed him to get to the rim— where he was very efficient. Lumpkin made his largest impact on the boards and on the defensive end, though. He was the second best rebounder on the team and the second best defender. Lumpkin was not great at shutting someone down one-on-one on the perimeter, but was a tremendous team defender. Lumpkin was great at doubling the post and jumping passing lanes. His heart and hustle were simply a menace to the opposing team's offense. You've probably heard the saying "stats don't tell the whole story" and that perfectly describes Lumpkin's impact on the program. Lumpkin averaged 6 points and 5.4 rebounds per game this past season. These were the best averages of his career, but there is one number this year that sets Lumpkin apart: 1. One NCAA Tournament appearance, the first in program history. Lumpkin leaves Northwestern having achieved something no other senior class could do, reach an NCAA Tournament, and for that, he will always be remembered as a Wildcats legend.

Thank You, Sanjay