NJ Benson eventually developed into a starter for DePaul last season after being a lineup fixture at Missouri State the year before.

The Blue Demons forward continues to show progress as a senior, averaging a career-best 11.8 points and 24.4 minutes per game entering Tuesday's game against Morgan State in Chicago.

Benson displayed his persistence and leadership Saturday, contributing a career-best 26 points on 11-for-15 shooting to key a four-point home win against Arkansas-Pine Bluff.

"He was really vocal. He was hungry to get the ball," DePaul coach Chris Holtmann said. "He attacked aggressively from the start of the game."

DePaul (6-3) played without guard Brandon Maclin (shoulder) on Saturday after he was injured Nov. 29. Maclin "is making real progress," Holtmann said, but he rema

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