our current bench production is concerning but we're only 6 games in, and a lot of our bench is new to the team.
Farabello has been the biggest disappointment thus far, he needs to hit 3's to justify his minutes, because defensively, he will not measure up to these contender-level teams. Black and Council IV ate him alive -- it is what it is. He needs to find his shot and continue to not make mistakes. He will be a good option in late-game situations.
Shereef Mitchell, our longest tenured player and our supposed backup PG, spent 90% of last year (and basically all of the preceding summer) on the sidelines nursing a hamstring injury. He's faster than FF and has made some nice plays off the bounce for other guys, but his shot is still a ways off from where it was his freshman year, which is really saying something. He's also playing out of control trying to do too much, I think he feels the pressure of the team's expectations and goals...There's reason to believe that he will improve
Mason Miller is the X factor, especially with the way Kaluma's been playing (not well). He needs reps. Obviously talented and obviously lacking some confidence. His stroke looks good and the hype around his athleticism is warranted. He just needs more time to figure out how to best impact the game when he's out there.
King has exceeded all expectations. Further along than Miller, prone to some stupid passes and defensive lapses. Also needs reps.
Coach Mac is notorious for playing a short rotation, but Ark did not get much from their bench last night either (6 points to Creighton's 3). Those big-time games are not the time or place to get reps for your inexperienced bench players. There will be ample opportunity during the conference slate for those guys to level up. It feels wrong to say that out loud but I think it's accurate.