Carbondale Reporter

On January 25, Southern Illinois University's basketball team faced a challenging moment against the University of Illinois Chicago. With SIU trailing by two points and less than a minute remaining, Kennard Davis Jr.'s three-point attempt fell short. However, Damien Mayo Jr. seized the opportunity to keep the play alive by saving the ball from going out of bounds, which eventually led to a crucial win for the Salukis.

Head coach Scott Nagy highlighted this play as a standout moment for the team. "That one just stands out so much more than the rest, in terms of, the play of the year for us," he said. Mayo's quick thinking and effort were pivotal, even though he did not receive statistical credit.

Mayo described his thought process during that decisive moment: "The way it had bounced out of bounds, I thought 'Oh, this is perfect.' In my mind, I can get this." His actions retained possession for SIU and set up a successful three-point play by Davis.

Mayo's impact extends beyond statistics. His contributions have been recognized by teammates and coaches alike. Chris Carr from Saluki Radio Network dubbed it 'the Mayo effect,' while Nagy called him the team's most valuable player following their victory over UIC. "Everybody always wants to say the MVP is the leading scorer and that's just not the case," Nagy explained.

Despite being tied for sixth in scoring on his team with an average of 5.1 points per game and committing 64 fouls, Mayo's influence is undeniable. His commitment to doing essential tasks on court makes him indispensable.

Nagy noted Mayo's growth: "Early on his focus was more on trying to be a better offensive player...Now we can't take him off the floor unless he's tired." Mayo values his education at SIU and appreciates being part of an environment where he feels welcome.

Player development coach Darreon Reddick recognized Mayo's potential early on due to his leadership qualities. According to Nagy, Mayo is vocal on court—a trait not common among college players—and ensures teammates are positioned correctly.

Mayo acknowledged Nagy's experience and trust in allowing him to lead: "Coach Nagy is a great coach...he trusts me to be that extension on the floor." This confidence has inspired teammates like Drew Steffe who praised Mayo's energy and encouragement.

Reflecting on leadership principles, Mayo stated: "I always say if you want to become a leader, you have to lead by example." His dedication motivates others around him to strive for improvement both individually and collectively.

Mayo expressed gratitude for playing high-level basketball at SIU: "Growing up playing high-level basketball...is just a blessing for me."

After transferring from Missouri State alongside Tyler Bey—both new recruits familiar with conference play—the duo contributed significantly despite initial setbacks when starting 0-5 in conference games this season.

"It means a lot for us," said Mayo regarding their turnaround performance after winning seven out of ten subsequent matches within their conference schedule thus far; perseverance remains key moving forward according to him.

In conclusion, Damien Mayo Jr.'s efforts reflect positively upon himself as well as those surrounding him within SIU men's basketball program overall—a testament not only towards hard work but also teamwork fostering success together through shared experiences along journey ahead together collectively united under common goals ultimately achieved together harmoniously moving forward into future endeavors awaiting them all alike eagerly anticipated now more than ever before perhaps previously imagined possible once long ago initially conceived originally planned initially envisioned first conceived first thought envisioned hoped dreamed believed wished desired wanted expected anticipated looked forward hoped dreamed believed wished desired wanted expected anticipated looked forward hoped dreamed believed wished desired wanted expected anticipated looked forward hoped dreamed believed wished desired wanted expected anticipated looked forward...