Lance Thomas has been a steady performer for Duke throughout his four year career there, but he certainly has never been a star on the team. Thomas is averaging 6 points and 3.6 rebounds per-game so far this season, both career highs. Beyond that though, Thomas has taken on a major leadership role. He is co-captain along with Jon Scheyer and is the most vocal leader on the young team. Head coach Mike Krzyzewski has a particular liking for Thomas who is extremely flexible and willing to do anything for the team.
According to a conversation between Coach K and Adam Zagoria of Zagsblog.net, Krzyzewski said, "All of a sudden someone's going to really like Lance, whether they draft him or bring him to camp and keep him because he's almost 6-foot-9, he's got great energy."
"I think he's our most versatile defender. We have him guarding [everyone] from centers to point guards."
No doubt Thomas has been an important player of Duke over the years, both on and off the court. However, Coach K may be making a bit of a leap to think of Thomas as a pro-player. Then again, you never know.
Get The Chronicle straight to your inbox
Signup for our weekly newsletter. Cancel at any time.