Jestin Lewis stepping up for Mercer in senior season

Bob Hoffman has had a good run with former junior college players with his Mercer program.

Travis Smith.

Anthony White Jr.

Add Jestin Lewis to that list.

The senior is leading the Bears in scoring in his second season with the team and had 22 points in Mercer's win over VMI on Thursday. Lewis and the Bears stay at home Saturday when they host UNC Greensboro at Hawkins Arena.

"I feel very comfortable," Lewis said. "I have been working with (assistant coach Jason) Eaker on my shot. Coach Hoffman has given me a little more freedom, and once you feel comfortable, you can get into a rhythm and a flow like that."

Lewis certainly has been in a flow this season.

After averaging 13.5 minutes and 4.3 points per game last season, Lewis stepped into the starting lineup this season. He is averaging 13.0 points and 3.4 rebounds per game, while shooting 44.1 percent from the floor, 34.5 percent on 3-pointers and 76.7 percent on free throws.

Lewis has scored in double figures in 13 games and reached 20 points four times, including the past two games. In those two games, Lewis has scored 49 points and hit 17-of-33 shots.

Hoffman compared Lewis to Smith and White and how those players have stepped up their games in their second season with the program.

"He's definitely getting in a spot where he feels good, and we ran a few things for him to get some shots," Hoffman said of Thursday's game. "He was special (Thursday) night, not only offensively but defensively. We need to, and we're still trying to find ways to get him shots when we can."

Lewis is hoping to keep that roll going for the Bears (15-6, 5-3 Southern Conference) as they host the Spartans (8-13, 4-4). UNC Greensboro has won two straight games and three of its past four.

Mercer beat UNC Greensboro twice last season.

"It's huge; every conference game is a battle," Hoffman said. "Our league is so good with so many good coaches and players. You've got to be ready every night; anyone can win."

This story was originally published January 29, 2016 at 6:01 PM with the headline "Jestin Lewis stepping up for Mercer in senior season ."