MISSOULA – Donaven Dorsey might be the oldest player on the Montana Grizzlies’ men’s basketball roster. While he has learned valuable perspective and wisdom over the years, he has also felt like the youngest player at times.
The reserve forward is still working his way back to top form after sitting out two years.
Dorsey transferred to Montana after playing a couple seasons and starting eight games for the Washington Huskies. He had to sit out a year because of transfer rules, and then he injured his hip, needing season-ending surgery, just before last season started.
Dorsey has learned to not take basketball for granted, as he embraces a bench role for Montana in his senior season.
“It was a really hard process, to be honest,” admitted Dorsey. “A lot of mental frustration, you know? I got back in shape over the summer, got my body right and everything was good. But first couple scrimmages, they were so fast. I felt like I didn’t know what was going on. I felt like I was a freshman again almost. I think I’m getting back to having fun and just playing the game that I love.”
Dorsey’s playing time has been up and down throughout the season. He is averaging 14 minutes per game and has made two starts while the Grizzlies dealt with injuries. The Lacey, Washington native averages 4.5 points and one rebound per game, while shooting 49 percent from the field and 41 percent from the 3-point line.
Dorsey and the Grizzlies head to Idaho for their only game this week on Saturday at 8 p.m. Mountain Time.
