Take 5: Senior leads Buffs

Melrose senior guard Eric Walker is the only senior for the Buffaloes this season, and takes his leadership role seriously. Walker said some of the juniors have also stepped up to be team leaders. (CNJ staff photo: Andy DeLisle)

Eric Walker’s favorite professional athletes, Steve Nash and Peyton Manning, lead by example and think team first. As the only senior on the Melrose basketball team, he hopes to exhibit the same type of leadership. Walker is averaging 10 points and three assists a game.

What did you think about the New York Knicks and Denver Nuggets brawl?

Walker: It was pretty much a waste of their time. Carmelo could have played more games and helped his team out a lot more. But that kind of stuff happens.

As the only senior on the team, do you feel you have more responsibilities?

Walker: I do. I have to lead the team more. But the juniors step up and help me out a lot. They get on the younger guys when they mess up.

Who’s your pick for the Super Bowl and why?

Walker: I’m going for the Colts. I think Peyton Manning deserves a Super Bowl. He’s a good player.

What did you think of all those people who said he was never going to make it to the Super Bowl?

Walker: He’s had his down times. But I knew he would get there. Dallas Clark helped the team out a lot too.

Do you have a favorite NBA player?

Walker: Steve Nash. He’s a really good passer. I like Kobe Bryant, too, but I pick Nash be-cause he’s a passer.

Would you rather appear on Jay Leno, David Letterman or Conan O’Brien?

Walker: That’s a tough one. I’d say Jay Leno ’cause I watch him the most. He always makes fun of himself about having a big chin.

Do you have a favorite show on ESPN?

Walker: I like “Outside the Lines.” It shows how the players deal with things on and off the court. I really liked the one with Marvin Harrison. It showed how he’s not talkative but he’s still a team leader.

Coach’s comments: “He has to take on a lot,” Melrose coach Casey Pack said of Walker. “When you have four or five seniors, they have to assume the leadership role. This is the youngest team I’ve ever had. The great thing (about Walker) is he’s kept his composure, and he works hard in practice.”

Take 5 is a weekly feature compiled by CNJ Sports Writer Greg Price. He can be reached at 763-6991 or by e-mail at: [email protected]