MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- It's been a whirlwind since David Joplin committed to Marquette in April. A non-stop mix of games and classes over the next eleven months, all leading up to March Madness with his hometown team.
"I love it. My parents have been to every game like they said they would."
It’s a good thing they've gone to every game, because David has played in all 30 of them. Despite coming in as a true freshman, the Brookfield Central grad has carved out an immediate role with the Golden Eagles.
"I can play any spot on offense. I can post up, shoot the three. I think being a weapon is always keeping me in the game."
He's still working on the defensive end, but David has come a long way in his freshman season. He's gotten better, faster and stronger, but the biggest change isn't physical.
"I know so much more about what to do and when to do it. Basketball is much more about positioning and being in the right spot. There's so much more in here than six months ago."
"He's beginning to come out of his shell," said Darryl Morsell, Marquette grad student. "I feel like his confidence has increased tremendously. I think he's grown so much as a man and as a player this year."
David's first taste of March Madness tips off with Marquette's first Big East tournament game Thursday against Creighton, then hopefully the NCAA tournament that he's dreamed about for years.