WICHITA, Kan. - Freshman guard Ron Baker earned his way into the starting lineup for the 2012-13 season after redshirting the 2011-12 campaign. The Scott City, Kan. native is averaging 25 minutes, while contributing just over seven points a game. Recently, he was diagnosed with a stress fracture in his left foot and will be out approximately six weeks.

How does taking a redshirt in your first year, help you this year?

Last year we had a pretty good team and I could learn from Toure' (Murry), DK (David Kyles) and Joe (Ragland) at their position. Sitting out also helped me get stronger and learn our system a lot better.

What is it like to play for Coach Marshall?

Everyone knows he wants to win, so he demands you as a player to produce and play the best you can. He knows each player's strengths and weaknesses, and he pushes you to give the best effort night in and night out.

How does what you do in practice everyday, help you in games?

We focus on each team we play in practice. We scout our opponents just like any other program in the country does, and we do different drills to focus on certain situations that may come up in the game.

MVC play is just around the corner, what will it take for you guys to contend for a title?

It will be important for us to trust the coaching staff and being ready for each game. We are a talented team, but it will be important for us to stay focused. Everybody has to play to their strengths, play together, take care of the ball and do the little things right.

How do your experiences playing football and baseball in high school, help you play basketball at the Division 1 level?

Well, football is obviously very physical and when you play in the Valley, every game is a dogfight. Baseball is more of a mental sport and you have to be able to keep your head screwed on straight to get ready for the next play. You can relate that all to basketball because at the college level it is very important to be a good mental and physical player.

Outside of school and basketball, what do you enjoy doing when you have free time?

I have three roommates that are all on the team and I like hanging out with them. Just being away from the gym, relaxing and enjoying life.

How does your family influence you athletically?

Both my parents were collegiate athletes. My mom played basketball in college and my dad played baseball. Family is very important to me. Every time I see someone out in public and they talk to me, its pretty neat that everyone kind of knows you. I wouldn't be here if it wasn't for my family and I am doing what I do now for them.