Fresno State Athletics
Total Devotion
12/1/2000 12:00:00 AM | Men's Basketball
When sophomore guard Travis DeManby walks onto the freshly polished hardwood of Selland Arena, when the lights are shining brightly from above, and the crowd is cheering, he can only think of one thing: Giving 110%.
DeManby, a two-time Southern Oregon Conference Selection from South Medford High School, is entering his third season with the Fresno State men's basketball program. After coming off of a season where he appeared in 31 games, averaged 3.8 points, one assist and one rebound per game, the off guard is looking to improve in all statistical categories. DeManby sat out his freshman season as a medical redshirt. He spent most of his time rehabilitating his calf-muscle and watching from the sidelines. To the unknowledgeable fan, a season spent on the bench is a season lost. But to DeManby, it was an opportunity to grow as a person and a player. DeManby's patience throughout the 1998 season would pay off in 1999, as he was able to earn some playing time due to a few injuries to key players. The season allowed for more opportunities than anticipated. Prior to the start of the season, DeManby had expected his playing time to be limited.
"Last year I knew that I wouldn't get to play a whole lot since I was behind two great players in Courtney (Alexander) and Terrance (Roberson) at the wing," DeManby said. "I felt that whatever playing time I did get last year was a plus."
In his 31-game appearance with three starts, he tallied 413 minutes of credible on-court experience. DeManby realized his opportunity to prove his worthiness to the coaches and the team. To some he may have been remembered as the back-up to former Bulldogs who have gone to NBA careers, but others know him as a tenacious defender, and a skillful three-point shooter, with an undeniable work ethic. That is exactly how he wants to be seen.
"I want people to see me as a player who gives a 110% the whole game, and I'm not lazy out there."
This past summer, DeManby began a training regimen, one designed to enhance some skills, improve on others, and develop any that were lacking. DeManby demands self-improvement. He consistently goes to the gym at dawn to work with assistant coach John Welch, honing his defensive skills and shooting technique. In addition, he puts in extra hours lifting weights. His devotion to hard work has paid off. Since last season, DeManby has gained 20 pounds, all muscle. To some, 20 pounds may seem extreme, but to DeManby the extra weight is an advantage.
"The big thing about it is, I didn't lose any speed, if anything I gained speed," DeManby said. "I think it is going to be a big help for me because now I will be stronger and be able to hold people off. Defensively I should be better."
DeManby is proud of his defensive abilities and of his reputation for hitting the three.
"The coaches and I have talked about my role as a three-point shooter," DeManby said. "With the abilities of our guards to penetrate and dish out of our transition game, there should be more opportunities to score."
"When I get the open shot, I must be prepared to knock it down."
Last season, the shooter managed 23 three-pointers with .320 shooting percentage. Not bad when one considers his opportunities to score were limited. Some may wonder the reason for devoting an entire summer to improving both the mental and physical aspects of the game. DeManby knows the reason. His hard work during the off-season is going to pay off.
"I know what I can be this year and I don't want to have any doubts in my mind at the end of the season," DeManby said.
The past two seasons have allowed DeManby to spend quality time observing and training. He is ready to take his game to a new level and is heading into the 2000 season with some high expectations of himself and from the coaching staff. His studied knowledge, newfound skill and positive attitude when combined, will compliment that of other members of the team to pose a threat to all opponents entering Selland arena. He understands he will be looked upon to have a much greater impact in the outcome of the season. When head coach Jerry Tarkanian looks over his shoulder to call DeManby into the game, the devoted guard must be mentally and physically prepared for the role.
"When I come off the bench, I must go in and play solid defensively and not make mistakes," DeManby said. "I must give 110% the whole game."
