Quincy's Jaehning is here, there, everywhere
January 15, 2009
By Craig Larson, Globe Staff
Dave Jaehning can play the point, or shooting guard, or small forward. And on occasion, he may see a few minutes at power forward or center for the Westfield State College men's basketball team.
"He's big, rangy with the ability to play about anywhere, and he shows up in every category," said Westfield 10-year coach Rich Sutter of the 6-foot-4 Boston College High product from Quincy.
"And he makes others around him better."
With the Owls' starting center out for the season with a broken leg, and a starting forward (broken hand) and backup center (mononucleosis) sidelined, Jaehning's versatility, leadership, and stellar play have kept Westfield (8-5 overall, 1-0 MASCAC) on a winning course.
"This team has been resilient, and he has a calming effect," said Sutter. "He is the straw that stirs the drink for us."
He rarely leaves the floor, impressing Sutter with his stamina. He rebounds, he takes charges, and he's a dogged defender.
After Westfield dropped back-to-back games in the recent Bahamas Invitational against Wesley and William Jewell, Jaehning delivered 25 points, six steals, five rebounds, and four assists in a 72-65 win at Bridgewater State.
On Sunday, Jaehning was honored as the MASCAC's Player of the Week after averaging 19.1 points, 4.5 steals, and three assists in a pair of games.
"He's been our best player over the last couple of years, and in my estimation, one of the best in school history, if not the best," said Sutter of Jaehning, who is averaging a team-leading 15.9 points per game.
Westfield played MASCAC power Salem State last night and will host Massachusetts College on Tuesday night.