Aug. 29, 2009
LOS ANGELES -- Louisiana Tech senior Kyle Gibson collected the Drew Summer League's Championship Game MVP award after he led his team with 40 points, three assists and four rebounds in the Blazers 93-89 victory over Hank's Spiders.
Gibson believes his play this summer will help Tech when they take to the hardwood floor this fall.
"I think I took big steps this summer in order to become a more complete player," Gibson said. "I was able to play multiple positions for my team, and I really think that will help our team this fall. The high level of competition that I saw this summer helped me see the game better, be more versatile, become a better defender and a better scorer. I believe this type of league helped prepare me for the team-oriented style we play at Louisiana Tech."
Throughout the Drew League playoffs, Gibson played very well for the Blazers. In the quarterfinals, the Los Angeles, Calif. native stepped up for his team as he poured in 38 points, pulled down eight rebounds and totaled two steals. Following the game, he was awarded the league's player of the week honor. In the semifinals, Gibson was just as impressive. He scored 33 points in his team's 97-93 triple overtime win over AP2.
"We went into the semifinals as the No. 4 seed and played the No. 1 seed," Gibson said. "Fortunately, we were able to pull out the win and then a victory in the finals. A Drew League championship was something I wanted to accomplish this summer, and I took it upon myself to get the job done."
The Drew League is a NCAA sanctioned summer league located in Los Angeles, Calif. It features NBA, NBDL, overseas and college talent.
Before Gibson and the Bulldogs open the 2009-10 season, they will play Lincoln University of Missouri in an exhibition contest at the Thomas Assembly Center on Nov. 7. Tech begins its 31-game slate on the road at UT-Pan American exactly one week later. The Bulldogs' home opener is scheduled for Nov. 25 against UALR.
"With this upcoming season being my senior year, it is my last chance to leave an imprint on the basketball program," Gibson said. "I am willing to help our team anyway I can to put our program at the top."
For complete coverage of LA Tech Men's Basketball, please visit the official home of LA Tech Athletics at LATechSports.com.
