And Bingo Was His Name-o
11/2/2001 12:00:00 AM | Men's Basketball
Nov. 2, 2001
It didn't take long for Bingo Merriex to make a contribution to the TCU basketball program. As a true freshman, the three-point specialist played a key role in victories over the likes of SMU and Fresno State. His big smile, hustle and enthusiasm for the game made him an instant crowd favorite at DMC as the band struck up the Bingo song when he scored.
Since then, the junior from Wichita Falls has expanded his game, becoming a better low-post player and rebounder, while bulking up in session after session in the weight room. Merriex became a starter late last season and produced big-time numbers - averaging 21 points and 8 rebounds over the last games. After coming off the bench for most of his career, Merriex took his game to even a higher level after becoming a starter in the post.
"I enjoy playing down low because it helps the team," Merriex said. "That's what I did in high school, play the post. It was a big step strength-wise, because the players in college are much stonger than the guys in high school. I gained a lot of confidence. I knew when I stepped into the starting role and was producing, I could help this team a lot."
Now Merriex is expected to be the focus of the offense, playing the coveted point-producing "4" spot in head coach Billy Tubbs' system, the position that has made the likes of Lee Nailon, Kurt Thomas, Stacey King and Waymon Tisdale college stars and NBA draftees.
Indeed, the likeable, easy-going Merriex seems poised for a breakout year, both on and off the court. "I am trying to be a leader this year. Nucleus and I are the only ones with much playing experience, and we will be the leaders of this team."
But there is one unforeseen obstacle that the good-natured forward must overcome first.
"I was playing pickup and had the ball and was going to shoot a layup in the lane," explains Merriex. "When I went up, I felt my foot pop." At first they thought it was a bruise, but the precautionary X-ray showed the Jones fracture.
Merriex is in the process of rehabbing his foot as the season opens, but the coaching staff remains optimistic that he can return to the court in late November or early December. Of course Bingo hopes its sooner. He likes this mix of new players, and has high hopes for the team once they gain experience playing together.
"First, they need to learn the offense and the game, how the officials call things," Merriex said. "I think we will be a pretty good shooting team. We have guys that can slash to the bucket too, so we will have a combination of shooters and slashers on the floor at the same time. Everyone on the floor will be an offensive threat."
A team tradition started by Merriex along with former TCU center Derrick Davenport is likely to continue this season. Team Headband. The white version at home, purple or black on the road. "All the guys are saying they are going to wear the headbands," smiles Merriex, sporting a white personalized Bingo headband. "So I think it will carry on this year."
When his son was born, basketball fanatic Donal "Pops" Merriex wanted to name him after his favorite player, Bingo Johnson of the Golden State Warriors. And he thought he had. But Mrs. Merriex had something different in mind. "My mom changed the name on the birth certificate to Julius because she said she didn't like Bingo," Merriex said. "Everyone always called me Bingo anyway, so when I was a freshman in high school, I officially got it changed."
The speech communication major hopes to enter sports broadcasting when he is through playing basketball. "I would like to get into broadcasting or commentating, that would be pretty fun."
But first, Bingo wants to have two more years of Billy Ball fun on the floor of DMC.
Q&A with Bingo
Favorite thing to do off the court? Play video games. When we are not playing, practicing or studying, we are playing NCAA 2001or NBA2K2. They know I am the king, so they don't get mad.
Favorite Type of Music?
R&B
Favorite TV Show?
Martin
Favorite Movie?
Rush Hour II
Would you rather be on Survivor or the Weakest Link?
Weakest Link. I think that would be a pretty fun show.
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be, and what would you eat?
Tracey McGrady and Ray Allen. We would have spaghetti.
Favorite Athlete while growing up?
Reggie Miller
Will Michael Jordan be an all-star again, or is he too old?
I think he is going to prove a lot of people wrong. I think he will dominate the game even though he can't move like he used to.
Best advice from your parents?
My Dad used to always tell me to Trust in God, even with the ups and downs.
Why did you decide to come to TCU?
I liked the style of play. Being close to home had a lot to do with it too. I love my family, so it's close and nice to be an hour and a half from home.
What do you like best about TCU?
The atmosphere. I have a lot of fun on campus and with the guys. Everyday it's just a joy being here.
