'It's the Jason Clark show'

The 2011-12 season is one of transition for the Georgetown Hoyas men’s basketball program, from a team led by seasoned veterans to a roster stocked with burgeoning underclassmen. One component that remains the same is Jason Clark’s presence in the starting lineup, though not his overall role within the team.

Only five players return from the squad that went 21-11 last season, pulled off the first road win against rival Syracuse in the John Thompson III era and reached the NCAA Tournament for the fourth time in five seasons.

Faces of the program Austin Freeman and Chris Wright have moved on, just as Greg Monroe did the season before. Clark’s responsibilities expanded while playing with those stars and at times, he served offensively as the leading man, averaging a career-high 12.0 points per game last season. Yet largely he was not the primary option, whether on the court, at the postgame press conference or as the locker room voice.

That changes this season, his final on the Hilltop.

“This is Jason’s team, it’s his time. He’s been here three years. It’s his time to be the guy,” said sophomore guard Markel Starks at the Hoyas practice on Thursday.

“It’s the Jason Clark show now. I think a lot of people are going to see a different Jason Clark this year," said Starks.

Clark came to the Hilltop from Arlington, Va. where he attended Bishop O'Connell High School.

Before the Hoyas tipoff off-season Saturday at the Verizon Center against Savannah State, Patch caught up with the affable Clark for his take on the season, his role and his favorite haunt on campus…

Patch: During your three seasons at Georgetown, you have played with multiple stars, but the likes of Austin Freeman and Chris Wright have moved on. Now it is your turn to be the leader of this squad. How are you embracing that role?

Jason Clark: The leader aspect is different. I know this is my last go-round, so it’s no pressure but I think it’s more of an excitement. I want to make the best of it.

Patch: With veterans leading the way, the team ranked among the nation’s top-10 at points last season. Kids fill up the current roster - 10 underclassmen. What is the potential for this year’s squad?

JC: There is no ceiling for us. We can go as high as we want too. This team is very competitive, really talented.  

Patch: Favorite hangout spot on campus?

JC: It would have to be my favorite food spot, Wingo’s. I go there maybe three times a week, every Wednesday cause Wednesday’s its half-off. I’m either lemon pepper or honey barbeque guy.

Patch: Favorite place in Georgetown?

JC: I like M Street, all of it. Just walk around. It’s always busy. The is a nice spot.

Patch: Favorite Hoya growing up?

JC: Eric “Sleepy” Floyd. He could score the ball. He was competitive. He had a swag about him. He was good, he knew he was, but he also led his team. That’s one thing I really liked about him.

Patch: Interesting, you went with the early 80’s guard and the Hoyas all-time leading scorer. Actually, you have a comparable style. Did you pattern your game after his?

JC: A lot of people have said that. I never really thought of it. I’ve watched highlight films of him. I can kind of see the resemblance, but I’m no way near Sleepy Floyd.