2008 Woodie Awards
Sophomore influences young team
By Adam Brewer
Rocket Sports Editor
Issue date: 1/20/06 Section: Sports
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Sophomore Jamar Scales has been one of the bright spots for the Slippery Rock University men's basketball team despite a 1-16 record this season.
The 6-foot-2, 185 pound Scales, who plays the three guard and forward position, earned Pennsylvania State Athlete Conference Western Division Athlete of the Week honors for his strong performances against California, West Chester and Kutztown. Scales averaged 25.3 points per game with 7.7 rebounds per game and shot 66 percent from the floor in those games.
"It's a great feeling to have received this award and it was one of my goals this season," Scales said.
At the start of the season, Scales was sitting on the bench and got little playing time, but due to his consistent play and the offensive weapon that he has become, Scales has played more and started the past five games.
"Anybody that is on the bench is disappointed because they want to play and be in the starting line-up," Scales said. "I was overwhelmed at the beginning of the year dealing with school and other personal things but since we have such a young team we all needed to step up. I have practiced harder and I have shown what I can do on the court."
A year ago, Scales redshirted and did not play in any games for the Rock.
"Jamar is a hungry player and he has worked on his game the past couple of weeks," coach John Marhefka said. "He has a good attitude and is willing to learn anything that will improve his game."
Before coming to the Rock, Scales graduated from Olmsted Falls High School in Ohio and played on its highly-ranked basketball team. In his final two years on the team, it went undefeated in its conference. In his senior year, the team finished with a 25-3 record and advanced all the way to the Elite Eight in the playoffs.
Scales' major is Social Work. He said he feels real passionate about his field of study from personal experiences.
"I was raised in foster and group homes, and I was given a second chance by some people," Scales said. "I'm thankful for that and I want to guide other people and teach them from what have happened in my life."
