Benched: it’s a blessing, not a curse

A basketball practice scene showing a player in a white jersey holding a basketball while being closely defended by another player in a dark jersey. — [Courtesy of Duquesne Athletics] Redshirt sophomore Ethan Anish was a team captain last year, giving him a specialized role without needing court time.

Ben Deihl | sports editor

Being on the bench is often seen as negative. It can be a frustrating position to be put in. Being forced to sit out of playing the game you love is nothing short of disappointing. But junior guard Seamus McDermott isn’t disappointed in his spot on Duquesne’s men’s basketball team — he embraces the position and wants to help his team in any way possible.

“You’ve got to stay optimistic,” McDermott said. “A lot of it is having confidence in the guys around you.”

Bench players still get action and are instrumental in the game of basketball. In such a fast-paced, physically demanding game, it’s important to get fresh legs out on the court to keep defense stout and the offense humming.

For McDermott, it’s easy to understand why bench players exist and why they are so important to a basketball team. It’s hard to rely on five guys alone to carry a team to success, which explains why rosters are as large as they are, to allow room for some surprise players and foster the next-man-up mentality.

“We’ve got 18 guys on the roster, and all 1-18 have talent,” McDermott said. “You want guys to be competitive, you want guys to be fighting for what they think they deserve. You want there to be something to fight for.”

Shooting efficiency is also essential in basketball, and in some games, a starter may not be feeling it. Whether the defender has his number or the ball isn’t rolling off the fingers just right, having a reliable bench player to call in is crucial for a team’s success.

Junior Lucas Prolla recognizes that a bench or practice squad player is more than just a fill-in for when a starter needs a break. They can become the backbone of the team, giving the squad both the physical and mental support they need to function.

“During games or even off the court, bringing energy and just being consistent people,” Prolla said. “Maybe you’re just an extra voice when someone needs it, but you’re there to pick up your teammates.”

The basketball season is one of the most brutal to deal with in sports. The game is one of the most physically demanding, requiring players to have incredible stamina and speed in order to compete at a high level. For Duquesne, their basketball teams report to campus in early June to start workouts before the start of the season in November.

A basketball player in a white jersey with gray sleeves is dribbling a basketball while being closely guarded by another player wearing a navy blue jersey. The scene takes place in a gym with blue and gray walls. — [Courtesy of Duquesne Athletics] Seamus Murphy works freshman Dom Aekins in a practice game at UPMC Cooper Fieldhouse.

A five-month offseason and training regimen can be brutal for players, but many like McDermott enjoy the opportunities provided with such a long training window. Coming to Duquesne in the summer gives both basketball teams the campus entirely to themselves, allowing for unique opportunities and a great foundation for teammates to get familiar with one another and build on teamwork.

“The season itself once it starts is a grind, but it’s good to have these first few months to get to know guys,” McDermott said. “There’s also a lot to get done. Basketball is an intense sport. Having the summer, we have our time to build up from ground zero.”

Legendary NBA players like Jamal Crawford and Lou Williams are remembered for their bench impacts, coming into a game when the contest is closest or when the starters are tired or fouled out. Some of the best team support comes from the bench, both on and off the court.

McDermott, redshirt sophomore Ethan Anish and Prolla all recognize and thrive in their roles on the team. Anish was chosen as a team captain last year, a position he held in high regard that helped him build his leadership skills and appreciate his role on the team.

“I likely won’t see the court much, but the beauty of this team is how much each guy cares about the next guy just as much as himself,” Anish said. “They know that pushing each other is only going to make each other better.”

Having the time and culture to create such a bonded team is what sets Duquesne apart for McDermott and Anish. No matter where each player lands on the depth chart, each individual understands their value to the team and how they can make the Dukes better.

“It fosters such a positive environment,” Anish said. “Everyone’s pushing each other, everyone’s working hard.”

Prolla has had his fair share of time around basketball, playing prep leagues in Arizona before joining JUCO Missouri State University-West Plains before landing at Duquesne. Throughout his journey, he’s learned valuable lessons about the importance of bench or practice players, knowing each individual role is instrumental to team success.

“You’ve got to embrace it,” Prolla said. “You’ve got to continue to work towards a starting position, but reflect on where you’ve gotten. Just do what you love.”

Ben Deihl can be reached at deihlb1@duq.edu