Player Watch: Markquis Nowell

In a sport that’s predicated on height, the only thing that can overcome that obstacle is heart and when it comes to heart, 5’8” point guard Markquis Nowell ‘18 is seven feet tall. Only a sophomore, Nowell is already a high impact player for Bishop Loughlin.

Speaking to Nowell’s heart, Lions Head Coach Ed Gonzalez said “You can’t measure that. It’s unbelievable. His work ethic is unbelievable. He’s got the heart of a Lion. He’s tenacious and refuses to lose.”

Nowell’s dazzling performances throughout the season are directly responsible for the Loughlin’s Lions ascent up to #2 in the NYCHoops.net rankings in week six. In a loss on Tuesday against #10 ranked Archbishop Molloy, Nowell’s absence due to a twisted ankle at the first half can be directly correlated to end result according to Gonzalez. "[Nowell] wanted to finish it out and there was no way we would've lost this game with him. He wouldn't have allowed us to lose."

When asked about his height being a detriment, Coach Gonzalez had four words in response. “Isaiah Thomas. Boston Celtics” adding, “You want players. You want a guy that’s tough. You want a guy that can defend. You want a guy that can distribute and who can shoot the damn thing.” Nowell has been averaging 19.9 points per game along with multiple assists.

Gonzalez says that College don’t know about Nowell yet because he’s only a sophomore but expects his phone to be ringing off the hook next season if he continues playing on this level. “If he’s doing this now as a sophomore in the best league in the country. If you’re a college coach at least you’re going to come see him.”

Although he’s an undersized point guard, Nowell uses it as a motivator and has a message to College Coaches. “I can pass, I can shoot, I can defend. You put me on your team, I’m gonna be good."