Augustin makes a point during Big 12 Championship
The responsibilities of a point guard go beyond those of your standard basketball player. A true point guard is a coach on the floor and one who puts his teammates in the best position for success. Freshman point guard D.J. Augustin has excelled at the position while developing his leadership skills on the run. "This year, I've tried to talk more and lead during the games," Augustin said. "I make sure we're huddling at free throws and encourage my teammates." Although Augustin struggled with his shot during the first two Big 12 Tournament games, he still played a great floor game. Augustin dished out 10 assists without committing a turnover in 77 minutes of play. "My shot wasn't really falling so I tried to do some of the other things," said Augustin, who leads the Big 12 and ranks in the top 10 in the nation with 6.7 assists per game. "I looked to get my teammates involved, play good defense and just get our offense set up." The recently named Big 12 Player of the Year, Kevin Durant, recognizes how valuable it is to have a point guard such as Augustin. "D.J.'s a pass-first point guard and you don't see that too much in our generation," Durant said. "He's the leader on our team. He's vocal out on the court, so that helps us out." Augustin did find time against Oklahoma State to add 15 points of his own, including three driving layups with larger defenders guarding him closely. Augustin has had a knack this year for throwing his body around and scoring baskets at extremely difficult angles. "When I drive, I like to get some contact," Augustin said. "A lot of the time I end up on the floor." With clever plays that sacrifice his body, an uncanny ability to find the open man and blossoming leadership skills, it's no wonder the Longhorns will be playing for a Big 12 Tournament Championship with D.J. Augustin running the show.
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