Aggie point guard TJ Starks ready for the big stage, Providence

On waiting for the NCAA Tournament...

“All season, really all my life. This is a great moment for me because I’m a freshman and this is my first NCAA Tournament. I’m just ready for the moment.”

On Providence guard Kyron Cartwright...

“I know he’s left-handed like me, so I can look forward to that. I know he’s a great player. He attacks in transition. He’s a great offensive player and a great defensive threat as well, so I know that I have to stay down and stick with my defensive principles.”

On the importance of his matchup with Cartwright...

“If I can contain him and limit his points below his average, I think we have a good chance to win. He’s the engine, so if he’s not producing the way he’s supposed to, then the team is not going to go like they’re supposed to. If I can limit him, we have a good chance to win.”

On his approach going into the Big Dance...

“Just staying focused, doing what I know how to do to. Not thinking too much just playing the game the right way. Make sure I get the big boys, Tyler and Rob, plenty of touches. Make sure they get the ball early. We can dominate inside. We have a height advantage, so if I just run the offense and control the tempo, I think we’ll be alright.”

On the biggest key to the game...

“We stop them in transition and limit their offensive rebounds. If we do that, I think we’re going to win.”