I think you can theoretically play them both on the floor at the same time (depending on opponent). Both can create and distribute and while undersized, both are very good defensively. But Fatts isn't playing 35+ minutes a game here if that's what he wants.
I think how Hurley recruits the guard position this off-season will show just how much they believe that.
Not sure about Russell. Haven't seen enough to formulate a fair opinion. However, I say with confidence that Cole was exposed defensively moreso than other UConn regular all season. He struggled with both quicker and bigger guards, which is to say most of the big east. To have him and Fatts on the floor at the same time sounds like a matchup disaster for UConn.
Agree on Cole. He's gotten a rep on this board as an incredible on ball defender at the levels of some of our past great guards and I just don't see it. I think he's definitely above average, but if he doesn't make a defensive play outside of the other teams three point line he's toast - he's not big enough to stop a lot of guards from getting to the rim and can get abused on occasion. I like what he brings to the table but we can't trot him out with other minus defenders and expect to be ok.
He is a very good player. I don't think anyone is surprised by the quality of schools that are interested. Given our roster and needs, that doesn't necessarily make him a must get or even a good fit for UConn.
I completely disagree and don't know where you're getting this from. Cole has been very good to great on defense. Only time I saw him truly struggle was Gillespie bumping him all the way under the hoop for easy post up scores. Cole has held all the other point guards in check or shut them down. He moves his feet very well staying in front of his man and generally harasses them and he's adept at taking charges. Fatts Russell was all conference defensively last year and was one of 15 players nationally who was on the Naismith mid-season defensive player of the year list.
Must get, no, don't think anyone is a must get with the team we have returning next year. I'll have to disagree that he's not a good fit, I think he fills a pretty big hole on next year's team, which may not matter if there's no mutual interest
Staying in front of posh ?
Its cool to disagree. But very good to great? That is a stretch. There were mulitple times this season where it was frustrating to see him backpedaling to the basket with his hands vertical, getting beat and bullied off the ball. He was far from great. Maybe he does move his feet well, but I still contend, because of his size, he was exposed and stuggled with the better big east guards.
He struggled at the end of that one but the whole team fell apart once Hurley took Sanogo out.
I don't want to create a 3 page back and forth so I will stop after asking this. Out of pure curiosity, what big hole would Fatts fill?
He couldn't even stay in front of Zegarowski. Again, its not a skill thing but a size thing, which is why the thought of partnering him with an even smaller guard is less than ideal
From what i’ve seen it seems like Bobby Hurley kinda wants out of ASU, but judging by the caliber of coach he is (despite a horrible season) I can only see him leaving for a REALLY good job. But then again, he is definitely still recruiting as if he’s going to stay there, at least for now
I think scoring is a glaring weakness next year, particularly with anyone being able to get their own shot. He's not a perfect fit, ideally it's someone who's a little bigger or can shoot it a little better. But in terms of talented additions, I'm not sure we find someone who checks off more boxes, maybe just different ones
If anything the Penn State inclusion makes the most sense. Playing on a team with two other scholarship players and a few equipment managers is the ultimate green light for a shooter.
I agree with that. I feel we need to replace Bouknight's production moreso than add to Cole's. Nothing against Fatts who is a fine player and could play here, I just feel we can find a better fit.
You're really exposing yourself. Cole kept Zegs under his season averages in points, shooting %, and assists.
