Badiane and Cook Named Team Captains For 2004-05
October 11, 2004 | Men's Basketball
Badiane, the first Pirate to compete in Conference USA all four years of his career, has been an essential part of elevating the popularity of ECU basketball throughout the region. A tremendous shot blocker, he currently ranks third on the C-USA career blocked shots list with 239 rejections, 53 shy of the league's all-time record. Badiane has also developed into a force on the glass and the offensive end of the court. As a junior, he led C-USA in field goal percentage in league games only and ranked 13th in rebounding in all games.
Cook, an All-Conference USA Freshman Team player last season, is ECU's leading returning scorer (10.4 ppg). He quickly adjusted to the college game and elevated his play during the second half of the season. Once Conference USA play was in full swing and he inserted into the starting lineup, Cook averaged 13.7 points during the final 12 games of season.
"Both guys lead in a different way," stated Herrion. "Moussa leads by example. His work ethic and approach to the game is as good as any player I've coached. Our players respect him because of the way he comes ready for practice everyday."
"Mike Cook became a leader during the second half of the season and when he was inserted into the starting lineup, that turned our season around," explained Herrion. "He's not afraid to get on his teammates verbally and they really respect his game."
