La Salle Explorers: How Pookie Powell is Providing a Spark for the Team

By Chuck Booth | Jan 9, 2017

Dec 10, 2016; Miami, FL, USA; Georgetown Hoyas guard Jagan Mosely (4) dribbles the ball against La Salle Explorers guard Pookie Powell (0) during the first half at American Airlines Arena. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports /

When discussing who would be in impact player for the La Salle Explorers prior to the season, it was dominated by two names Jordan Price and BJ Johnson, and for good reason.

One name that was left out was redshirt sophomore guard, Pookie Powell. A bit of an unknown for the La Salle Explorers after his transfer from Memphis, no one knew how Powell would adjust to regular play or what his role would be. At Memphis, Powell averaged 4.4 points per game, 1.3 rebounds per game, and 2.7 assists per game as a freshman. He appeared in 27 games for the Tigers, starting 11. It was the lack of playtime that led to Powell seeking pastures new.

Once it was confirmed that Powell would be transferring to La Salle, coach Dr. John Giannini had some high praise for the guard.

“Pookie is the type of guard that recently helped us get to the NCAA Tournament,” Giannini said. “He can dribble, pass and shoot and is a great teammate. I’m very excited about him and expect him to make a very positive impact on our program.”

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That’s saying something with the role that Ramon Galloway had on that sweet 16 team being open and ready to be filled. Galloway could be counted on to run the offense, be the guy to take the last second shot, and more. All while playing efficiently and avoiding turnovers. I’m not saying that Powell is turning into Galloway but he is providing a similar spark for the team.

La Salle’s matchup against Villanova was a coming out party for Powell as the Explorers went toe to toe with the Wildcats. When the team needed a charge from the bench it was Powell that stepped up and poured in a career-high 27 points. Coach G said that night was a “growing up” moment for the guard and looking at performances since then it was definitely a turning point for his season.

Since that game, Powell has averaged 14.6 points per game for the Explorers while playing to maximum efficiency.

This scoring and turnover free basketball will be needed as the La Salle Explorers get deep into the grind of the Atlantic 10 season. In their last game against Duquesne, Powell scored 16 while going 8-8 from the line. Powell is never afraid to drive into the lane which get’s the other team into foul trouble. He was one of five Explorers in double digits in that game as they look to be hitting their stride as a team.

Next: La Salle Tops St. Louis

With Davidson not being as dominate as normal the third spot in the Atlantic 10 is up for grabs and the Explorers have a week that could set them up well for making the NCAA Tournament. They have a huge away matchup with Rhode Island on Thursday followed by a home clash with George Washington on Sunday. Powell’s performances in these bouts will be key for the Explorers in these games along with the rest of the season.

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