If Damonte stays, I think he will follow Aaron Jordan’s path. We will see a significant jump next year but definitely his senior year.
I’ve seen it before (both in sports and the military). Some people need the right set of circumstances to feel comfortable in their role.
There are three types of leadership on the court all stemming from 3 sources of power/authority. (There are like 7 or 8 types of power I believe) Those 3 are expert power (really good/experienced b-ball players), charismatic power (natural leaders), and legitimate power (upperclassmen who are looked at to be leaders).
Damonte is not charismatic but he is a good ball player and is gaining experience. And once he becomes an upperclassmen, and specifically a senior, I think he will be way more comfortable with EVERY aspect of the game, will take on leadership roles, will be overflowing with confidence, and will have a breakout year.
He just needs that legitimate power/authority. I feel like that is why you see so many breakout years by upperclassmen and why often teams with upperclass leaders do well.
Damonte will no longer look to any players above him in a year or two and will not have the pressure to lead before he’s ready. It will simply be his turn.
That’s my theory/hope anyway.
Edit: Just realized this is in the recruiting thread. Thought it was the 2019-2020 thread. Dan, move as necessary.