Paulius Murauskas’ 31 Points Led Arizona State Past Louisiana Monroe; Everything Randy Bennett Said

Murauskas leads the victory

Paulius Murauskas delivered 31 points and 13 rebounds as Arizona State beat Louisiana Monroe 92-62 on Friday night in Tempe. The captain forward’s performance stood out in a comfortable Sun Devils win.

Bennett said he now lets Murauskas play without needing to direct him during games. He also praised the forward’s leadership and desire to help the team succeed.

Bennett praises his growth

Bennett said Murauskas had improved in several areas and grown stronger, but identified leadership as his biggest step forward. He said the forward had become a mature leader who repeats the messages coaches want teammates to hear.

Bennett placed Murauskas among the elite players he had coached during 25 years. He called him the best power forward he had coached, while noting that he had also worked with standout guards and centers, including Matthew Dellavedova, Patty Mills, Jock Londale and Omar Samhan.

Defense and execution remain priorities

Bennett said Arizona State emphasizes rebounding, defense, taking care of the ball and efficient offense. He was pleased with the team’s effort but said its rebounding margin had slipped to plus 13, adding that the team could have finished with a higher figure.

He said the defense was effective until the final eight to 10 minutes. Keeping Louisiana Monroe from making three-pointers was a key focus, and Bennett said the Sun Devils did a reasonably good job, though the opponent scored late.

Next game against Oakland

Bennett said players who see less action need minutes and hard coaching to improve. He described that development as part of the team’s broader effort to keep getting better.