True freshman forward Maik Kotsar gained Gamecock fans’ attention when it was announced that he was an opening night starter against Louisiana Tech.
However, Kotsar's performance over the first three games curbed that excitement. In 54 minutes over that stretch he managed to score just 14 points with seven rebounds. Meanwhile, he ran into some foul trouble and accumulated 11 personal fouls.
Things started to click for Kotsar in the Gamecocks match-up against the South Carolina State Bulldogs.
In his best collegiate performance to date, Kotsar compiled 15 points and 8 boards. He was a perfect seven for seven from the field while also having zero turnovers. He earned just one personal foul.
South Carolina head coach Frank Martin gave Kotsar and his other forwards an extra incentive to dominate the glass, noting that he has begun the practice of charting missed rebound opportunities and pairing them with post-practice sprints.
“I found out that they rather me raise my voice than have to run for not rebounding," Martin said.
“[If] we can keep him out of foul trouble Maik’s gonna be a real good player for us,” said Martin.
That is high praise from a coach that puts an emphasis on elite play from his big men.
Kotsar's ability to replicate this level of performance could change the dynamic of Martin's team. High-level play from big men is crucial in a physical conference like the SEC. Chris Silva is already a known commodity, but he will need help from the other bigs on the team.
If tonight is any indicator, it looks like Kotsar is up for that job.