Nov. 13, 2012

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The Oregon State men's basketball team opened its 112th season when practice officially began on Friday, Oct. 12 with a lot of excitement after coming off its first 20-win campaign since 1990. We'll provide a video feature on all 16 players on the roster as the Beavers prepare for one of their most anticipated seasons in more than two decades. Our 10th feature highlights sophomore guard Challe Barton.

Challe Barton's role is as important as any player on the Oregon State men's basketball team this season. As the backup to starters Ahmad Starks and Roberto Nelson, he's the lone scholarship guard with any college experience and will be relied on heavily to provide quality minutes.

Barton, a 6-foot-3 sophomore from Goteborg, Sweden, played in 35 of the 36 games during his true freshman season, missing only one due to an injury. It was an up-and-down first year as he made the transition from European basketball to the American game. But the one thing he learned, which can't be taught, is actual game experience, including 22 contests against Pac-12 competition.

While Coach Robinson and his staff added three freshmen guards to the roster, they are going through the growing pains Barton experienced last season. Barton played several games in Sweden during the summer and has continued to work hard on his shooting, ball handling and ability to run the team as the floor general.

Beaver fans should continue to see someone who never gets fazed on the court and a player who has dedicated himself to taking the next step in his college career.

Click on the following YouTube link to find out more about sophomore guard Challe Barton:

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