Gipsons Hard Work Leading Way for North Idaho
After sparse play in two years at the University of Oklahoma, Matt Gipson has enjoyed a solid sophomore campaign for North Idaho College.
The 6-9, 225 pound finesse power forward from Burkburnett, Tex., averages 16.1 points, 7.9 rebounds and 1.9 assists per game for the 17-11 Cardinals (11-11 Scenic West).
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Gipson has started 25 of 27 games this season, logging roughly 27 minutes per contest. He's shooting 48 percent from the floor, 30 percent beyond the arc and 66 percent from the foul line.
"Matt is such a hard worker," NIC Head Coach Hugh Watson told JUCO Junction. "We've been playing him out of position this season."
Gipson is what we would describe as a finesse power forward or combo forward. Watson has been playing him primarily at the four and five slots this season.
"He's a good rebounder and he runs the floor great," Watson said. "He's a good passer but a so-so outside shooter."
Gipson red-shirted in 2001-2002 and played sparingly at Oklahoma in 2002-2003 before relocating to North Idaho. The minutes and experience he has gained this year should aid him greatly over the next two seasons at the University of Hawaii. Gipson inked with the Rainbows in the fall.
"He never wants to miss a practice," Watson said. "I think he'll be a very good player at Hawaii."
JUCO Junction plans on scouting Gipson in two weeks at the Region 18 Tournament in Idaho. Keep it tuned here for the top coverage of junior college basketball recruiting on the net.