The reason we lost games last year was not because we did not play defense aggressively enough, we lost because we committed too many foolish/unnecessary fouls. We got beat on the foul line last season. BC had a 30 to 11 foul shot advantage. We need to do better.
Unfortunately, Alex Karaban’s shot showed no improvement. Sure he’s a money player and hits some key shots on high volume and got rebounds. But, Alex misses when he’s off balance and leans forward or backwards. Too often he’s open but leaning. If he gathered himself, stabilizes his body and feet, he would consistently do much better. When he leans forward he hits the back of the rim. When he leans backwards he hits the front of the rim too often. This issue is compounded due to sometimes not having perfect backspin.
I think we need an expanded role for Stewart. He’s got the full package. Size, shooter, passer, runs well, shot blocker/rebounder and defense.
Mullins will be a great player but had early nerves tonight. He will not be a repeat of Maheney. Mullins has one of the best looking shots in UConn history. He’s athletic too with great fundamentals.
Reibe will also do very well, but rushed his finish moves. He has a good touch and it will show soon. He’s also had improved his body this summer/early fall. That was my concern that it would take awhile for a young guy his height to do that. He looks way ahead of schedule. His footwork is good.
Looking forward to a balance Solo Ball. He will be good with a balance between drives and threes.