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Lewis Decides to Stay and Lead Duquesne

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Today was decision day for Duquesne star guard Mike Lewis and he decided to finish what he started and is staying at Duquesne and won’t transfer.

“They (new coaching staff) have a plan and laid it out to me. They told me they want me to be a major part of the plan,” said Lewis.

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“It’s not going to be easy. He said we’re going to be bringing some recruits in and go from there. I like the togetherness of the staff. It’s a big family. I think all the assistants or staff except one have either known or played for him for 30 years. So the fact that they’ve stayed with him means he’s a good guy.”

(Photo credit: David Hague)

“We just clicked. He’s a cool guy to hang around and can talk to him about anything. I really like his vibe.”

Despite only being a freshman last year, Lewis was the unquestioned leader of the Dukes last year and knows he’ll be counted on again this year as the “Dambrot Era” of Duquesne basketball starts.

“It’s pretty exciting but at the same time I understand that it’s going to be a huge challenge now especially with Isaiah and Nayke leaving. That’s going to hurt our team but I’m ready to step up.”

“This is definitely going to be challenging and they’ll probably be some nights where I’m like what did I get myself into but I’m ready for it and can’t wait,” said Lewis.

(Photo by: David Hague)

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Although many expected Lewis to return his decision wasn’t final until yesterday when Dambrot traveled to St. Louis to meet with his parents.

“He went down and had dinner with my mom and dad. The only thing they told me was they saw that he had a plan and how excited he was for this challenge. He laid out the foundation for them and told them the same thing he told the team.”

Since Dambrot was hired, there seems to be a legitimate excitement for Duquesne basketball and it’s something that Lewis and his teammates feel.

“There’s definitely a more positive feel on campus. Now people are actually looking forward to the season coming up. I’ve had some students come up to me and say they can’t wait to come to the games and check us out. There really is a different vibe and it’s changed overnight. It’s definitely going to be exciting.”

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