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PROVO -- BYU sophomore Nick Martineau is a point guard with many talents from the field to the court, playing both football and basketball in high school.
Playing for Davis High, Martineau was an all-around football player, acting as quarterback, running back, and wide receiver at times.
"I was more of a runner instead of a passer," Martineau said. "That's why they moved me around a little bit. I was able to play a few different positions because I was quick."
While at Davis, Martineau played with BYU running back Bryan Kariya where they had a successful season. Kariya recounted one of his favorite games with Martineau when they beat Northridge, a team that was highly favored to win.
"We really upset Northridge," Kariya said. "They were heavily favored to win. Our game was even highlighted on ESPN that night."
"That was a real big game," Martineau recounted. "Coming in, the coach told me he was going to give me the second play of the game. I was super nervous. I hadn't played tons and he just said, ‘Just follow Bryan. Just get on Ryan's butt and follow him right out.' I don't think it went big or anything, but at least I didn't get killed."
Martineau eventually gave up football to play basketball; a sport that he felt more comfortable playing.
"It was a tough decision, but I liked it in a lot of ways," Martineau said. "I was excited to relax and just focus on one sport. I loved playing receiver, but having the ball in my hands every play was a lot more enjoyable."
Since deciding to focus on basketball, Martineau has served a mission and has returned to BYU to play for a successful Cougars team that is making national headlines.
"It looks like the program, since Rose has been here, has just gone up," Martineau said. "It was great to get a taste of that my freshman year and they've just built on that since I've been gone."
Martineau has much to learn as he rejoins the team, especially with starting point guard Jimmer Fredette leading the way.
"He's a winner," coach Dave Rose related. "He's a guy that makes his teammates better."
