O’Quinn Is On Track

Cal State Northridge senior Mike O’Quinn, veteran of two Division I programs, was as excited as a freshman watching a recent game. Not a Matador game, the game on television between USC and New Mexico Tuesday night.

O’Quinn called Northridge Coach Bobby Braswell several times, pointing out a play, commenting on a mistake, just wanting to share a laugh.

“Michael loves the game so much he’s fun to be around,” Braswell said.

Finally, O’Quinn is ready to contribute. The 6-foot-6 forward was ineligible last season because he transferred from Loyola Marymount. O’Quinn, who helped Muir High win a Southern Section title in 1993, has had his share of problems. He was suspended once at Loyola Marymount and was suspended this year by Braswell for the first two weeks of practice.

“I see a new attitude in Michael,” Braswell said. “He has grown up a lot. He is acting responsibly off the court.”

In an exhibition Monday against the Son Blue Angels, O’Quinn displayed the impact he can make on the court, scoring 22 points with eight rebounds in 29 minutes.

“My attitude toward my teammates and my coaches is a lot different than it was at Loyola,” O’Quinn said. “I had lost my desire to play the game. Now I’m part of a new family and my desire is renewed. I’m on a good pace as long as I stay focused.”