Wow. Let me write that again. Wow.

Arkansas forward Marshawn Powell had a few interesting things to say during today’s press conference, which was previewing the Southeastern Conference Tournament. The Razorbacks are opening the tournament against Georgia on Thursday night and Powell’s play will be a big factor in whether the Hogs can win and advance to a second-round game against Vanderbilt.

Judging by Powell’s comments during today’s press conference, he’s determined to do his share.

Powell was asked at the end of the press conference if he thought he would take on more of a leadership role next season. Arkansas coach John Pelphrey and teammates have all credited Powell for his work ethic this year. It helped him land on the All-SEC Freshman team. So it was a good question.

His response? Let’s just say it was much, much more than anyone expected.

“I believe I’m there now,” Powell said. “I believe this is my team.”

Say what? Obviously, Powell was asked a follow-up about the comment before leaving the podium. So what do his teammates think about the fact he is announcing that Arkansas are his team? More interesting stuff followed from Powell.

“I’m not taking nothing from Mike (Washington) or Stef (Welsh). I know those are the seniors,” Powell said. “I’m taking it and just putting it on my back. This is what this team needs is a leader. We haven’t had that all year. So it’s my turn to try, I guess.”

Wow. Pure quote gold. Unfortunately, that was also the last question of the press conference.

So what does it mean? Has Arkansas really lacked leadership this season? Has that been a big problem for this group? What is Powell doing to try to take over that leadership role at this point? What will his teammates think about his comments during today’s press conference?

There’s no doubt it was by far the most telling and intriguing quote of the year for a team that has been through all kinds of ups and downs.

But now comes the tricky part. It was coming from a guy who has combined to score 17 points on 7 of 28 shooting (25 percent) from the field in the last two games. Do you admire what Powell has to say about wanting to be the team’s leader as it tries to end the season on a good note? Of course. The only problem with Powell being so vocal about trying to take over as team leader is this: Now he has to back up his words by delivering an impressive performance against Georgia on Thursday.

It’s one thing to say it. Another thing to do it.

We’ll see what type of impact it may have on Arkansas in the SEC Tournament.