I'm all aboard this team for another final four run, and all the players did something I liked. I loved only 8 turnovers, 10 blocks, 56% from the field and holding NAriz to 34%. Our 2 primary 3 point shooters were 5-9 from 3, which is disguised by misses from others. Castle, Ross, Stewart, and Ball, all showed they will bring something. This was a game for them to just get their feet wet without a real grade. Castle made the great spin move to the hoop that is the type of play he will make a bunch. Singare was confused on offensive spacing but was able to play to his shot blocking strength in limited appearance.
Entering the season, my fears were Donovan's free throw shooting, first half early foul trouble on our 2 main bigs, and Johnson getting matched against physical players. I think shooting, team defense, and everything else will work out.
Although it was mentioned the other day that Emeka only shot 56% from the line, (I didn't verify), the season is much easier if Donovan can hit 65% at least at the line.
In this game it was a choice that Donovan stayed on the bench after Johnson's first 2 fouls and we went to small ball with Alex at the 5. I'll watch those possessions again, but I was not encouraged that that was working for us, even against this competition.
Johnson showed he can be effective at the valuable skill rolling to the basket for a high lob, but in general the jury has to be out until we play better teams. (He did pass a wide open 12' shot late in the game that I found curious). Loved to see him smile. It must be very satisfying to finally contribute.
In high school Karaban always played like he did last night with some moves to the hoop. Last year he just deferred to the offensive scheme, (similarly Sanogo shot 3's and drove to the basket when I watched him in high school, but didn't use those skills until it fit the scheme).
All in all, every other team has their weaknesses too. I like our chances.
