Lual Lual scores his 500th career point

Friday February 9, 2024 - 2:25 p.m. | Dylan DeVlieger

On Wednesday night not only did Mesa get a pivotal win in their quest to chase down a postseason spot, but Lual Lual joined an exclusive club as he scored his 500th career point at MCC.

Off a precise entry pass into the paint from teammate Pearse Long, Lual took it to the rack and laid it up to break the half century mark. Lual, knowing he was within reach of the milestone before tip-off did not pay too much mind to it as he knew his team needed the win over the Bears to keep their playoff hopes alive.

"I went in with the mindset of just winning the game, I wasn't really worried about the milestone of getting to 500 points or not, I was just focused on competing as hard as I could and being able to get the win," said Lual.

Lula has been having a standout sophomore year, averaging 13.3 PPG on 49% shooting from the floor while grabbing 8.6 RPG. Lual is a near walking double-double and has achieved that feat in 11 games this season.

The leap Lual has made from his freshman to sophomore year has been noticeable as he has nearly doubled his MPG, improved on his PPG by nearly five, and increased his RPG by roughly two. Lual gives credit where it is due as he spent countless hours with the coaching staff and others in order to make the most of his last year as a Thunderbird. 

"I credit it a lot to the Mesa men's basketball coaching staff with the countless hours whether it was coach Neal, DC, or coach Fauske. I appreciate all of them spending quality time with me," said Lual, "and my trainer Dame, he really broke the game down this offseason, we went in with a game plan and tried to achieve it."

Coming to MCC almost two years ago Lual knew he was able to come in and make an impact. His mindset of setting a goal and working towards it powers him in life to achieve his goals and dreams.

 "I have a strong belief in the power of manifestation, I believe that if you work towards your goal and do everything you can towards that goal you can achieve it."

Lual is the just 9th member to join the 500 point club in the last 11 years.

Action Photo Credit: AZ Basketball