By: Dwayne Hill

Dwayne Hill — Tue, 23 Jan 2018 15:49:44 +0000

EMU could no longer rely on Washington for occasional scoring outbursts. She is now the main source in the post. We spoke over preseason, and I told her you would have to take on a heavier burden and be a little selfish. As I watched her play, I knew that was not her type of nature. Washington, though, was obliged by Griffin’s request and became one of the go-to persons as EMU coalesced into a cohesive unit on its way trying to reach the ODAC’s and NCAA tournament for another time in the program’s year history. In addition, that has never more apparent than in the postseason where Washington (11.3 points per game) has led the Runnin’ Royals in scoring the last few games. Her best performance came January 16 against Bridgewater College in the conference game when she tallied a career-high 21 points in the 72-67 win. “We knew her upside,” Griffin said. “She is a hard worker. As a freshman, she set the tone.” I told her, you are in rare air. You have to keep on pushing. As of right now, she is hungry for a title. The season is looking good, but she is not satisfied yet. The hungrier you are as a player, the more crutch the team will be when coming together to make the final run. She is the spark of energy, leader, and heart of the team. Do not turn down the energy and effort now. The best is still yet to come.

Comments on: Royals Athlete of the Week: Jess Washington

By: Dwayne Hill