By Brian Pitts

Enterprise Record

The first four games for the Presbyterian men’s basketball team has served as validation that Owen McCormack of Advance is a legitimate Division-I player.

The former War Eagle had your typical freshman season. He was a role player, averaging 4.8 points and 2.9 rebounds while playing 16.5 minutes per game. He appeared in 32 games, including 18 starts.

But look at the jump the 6-9, 230-pounder has made as a sophomore. He’s not just starting every game for the Blue Hose, he’s a vital piece of the puzzle.

In a 78-65 loss at Jacksonville, McCormack had 12 points, nine rebounds and three assists.

In an 85-46 stomping over visiting Carver, he had 12 points, five rebounds and two assists in just 18 minutes.

Foul trouble slowed him during a 62-56 home win over South Carolina State. He had six points and four rebounds in 18 minutes, only attempting five shots as he fouled out.

But in a 94-82 loss at The Citadel, McCormack bounced back with a fury, scoring 19 points and ripping down 12 rebounds. He sank 2 of 5 3-pointers.

Looking powerful and poised during Presbyterian’s 2-2 start, he’s the team’s No. 2 scorer and No. 3 rebounder. He’s averaging 12.3 points, 7.5 rebounds and 2 assists. He’s shooting 45.9 percent from the floor and 83.3 percent from the foul line.