Nov. 28, 2012
Dalton Pool, Texas Media Relations -
AUSTIN, Texas -- Jonathan Holmes put in yet another solid all-around performance Tuesday night to help Texas to a 65-37 win against Sam Houston State at the Frank Erwin Center.
Holmes recorded 11 points, eight rebounds, two steals, two blocks and one assist in 30 minutes of play. On the season, the sophomore forward leads the Longhorns in rebounding (9.2 rpg) and ranks fifth on the squad in scoring (6.3 ppg).
One of two players to start every game so far this season (point guard Javan Felix is the other), Holmes' consistency on the boards and overall effort in practice and during games are vital to such a young Texas team.
"I know that Jonathan is going to work hard the whole time he's out there," said head coach Rick Barnes following Tuesday's victory. "He plays so hard. You can count on him every night. He is averaging over nine rebounds a game, and tonight he scored the ball. I'm really happy for him, because he works as hard as anybody we have had here."
With Jaylen Bond sidelined with a foot injury, Holmes is currently the only returning Longhorn big man on a team that is consistently playing six freshmen. That is why his rebounding numbers have been so important for the Horns, especially considering the amount of zone defense Texas has employed so far this season.
"I've had to be more aggressive on the boards with Jaylen out," Holmes said. "I think once he comes back, he's going to be one of the best rebounders in the nation. It's definitely something he brings to the team. With him being out, I've taken it upon myself to step up and contribute more in that area."
Even though Holmes is only a sophomore, he is already looked upon as a leader and veteran player for the Longhorns. While he is leading by example through his hard work and effort, Barnes wants Holmes to become more vocal on the court and demand the same effort from his teammates.
"Coach really wants me to be a leader this year, especially with Jaylen and Myck (Kabongo) out right now," said Holmes. "I have to step up more since I'm more experienced and have been through it."
Holmes and the Longhorns are back in action on Saturday, Dec. 1 against UT Arlington. Tip is set for 3 p.m. at the Erwin Center, and the game will be broadcast by Longhorn Network.
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