Eagles star said he’s not going anywhere

Eastern Washington basketball coaches began raving about Rodney Stuckey when the 6-foot-4 guard from Kentwood (Wash.) High School signed with the Eagles. While Stuckey sat out last year for academic reasons, the coaches kept saying wait until next year.

Next year has come and is almost gone and the point guard isn’t as good as advertised – he’s better. But despite breaking new ground (first freshman ever named Big Sky Conference MVP) and records (EWU single-game and single-season scoring records, both conference records for freshmen), Stuckey remains humble and flashes a million-dollar smile when talking basketball.

He took a few minutes after practice to reflect on his first collegiate season.

Spokesman-Review: What were you expecting your first season, especially after sitting out a year?

RS: Just to play, man. I love basketball. I just wanted to come out and do what I do – play hard every day. Taking that year off really helped me as far as getting stronger and getting my grades up.

S-R: Did you feel pressure coming in?

RS: I knew there was a lot on my back. I like that. I can step up and take care of the situation.

S-R: What about the 45-point game?

RS: It was fun, but we didn’t win – that was the bad part about it. I was just feeling it. I was 14 of 21 from the field. I was out there picking and choosing my shots, and they were going in and I was getting to the free-throw line. I just couldn’t miss.

S-R: How would you describe your first season as a point guard?

RS: I learned a lot of different things. I learned to handle the rock more and read defenses. That really helps. Having the ball in your hand all the time is pretty fun. But I look forward to going back to wing. I like to run.

S-R: So, how would you characterize your first season?

RS: It was just fun. I like playing with this group of guys, the coaches are great. The season was a roller coaster. We had some ups and downs, but that’s how seasons go.

S-R: And, about those rumors you’ll transfer to a more high-profile school, where are you going to be next year?

RS: Here. I ain’t going nowhere. There’s no reason for me to transfer. Why do I need to go anywhere? Basically, that means sitting out another year waiting. If I’m a good enough player, people will find me.