Who knows how UCF's 2012-13 campaign would have ended had Tristan Spurlock been able to compete for the Knights in their final three contests of the year. Due to an injury, the forward was unable to play at home against No. 17 Memphis and at UAB and Southern Miss.

The Knights picked up a win against the Blazers, but came close to knocking off Memphis and Southern Miss, two Conference USA squads that participated in the NCAA Tournament and the NIT, respectively.

Spurlock's absence was especially felt against the Tigers in a nationally televised game at the UCF Arena. Without Spurlock in the starting lineup, the Knights had little depth and Keith Clanton (39), Calvin Newell (38) and Isaiah Sykes (35) all logged major minutes. UCF battled to the end before falling 76-67.

Despite missing those final three games, Spurlock had a breakout season as a junior. The Virginia native averaged 11.4 points and 5.8 rebounds, both career highs. He scored in double figures on 18 occasions and had three double-doubles. Spurlock led the team with 39 3-pointers and was second on the squad with 23 blocks.

What bodes well for Spurlock entering his senior year was his play during C-USA competition. He increased his output to 12.9 points and 6.5 boards against league opponents.

The vocal Spurlock will have more of a leadership role in 2013-14 as the Knights move to the American Athletic Conference. As a junior, he proved that he can score inside and outside and also rebound the ball. For the Knights to be successful against tougher competition, Spurlock will again have to step up and perform to the best of his ability.