Huskies enter exam break 8-0, 6th in both major polls

Since the win at the Maui Invitational Tournament the UCONN Huskies have added three wins in the cupcake part of their schedule. A 62-55 outcome over a stubborn and well coached New Hampshite squad was followed by blowouts of Maryland-Baltimore
County (94-61) and Fairleigh Dickinson ( 78-64). A breakdown of the individual scoring in these three games gives some insight into the answers and the issues I said were important to look for before the start of the tough Big East Schedule on Dec. 27 against Pitt.
Knowing that not even Kemba Walker will average close to 30ppg in the Big East, Calhoun has been trying to get his "diaper dandies" to start showing more on offense. Against UNH, somewhat let down after the Maui win and surprised by UNH's tenacity, the Huskies fell back on Walker and he produced another 30 point game. Shabazz Napier, the impressive Freshman point guard was the only other Husky in double figures. However, against Maryland-Baltimore County, Walker scored 24 and UCONN had 5 other players in double figures including Lamb, Smith, Oriakhi, Giffey and Sophomore enigma Jamal Coombs-McDaniel. Against FDU, Walker scored 21 and Lamb, Smith and Napier had 12, 10 and 10 respectively.
I feel that Shabazz Napier is the Freshman who is furthest along in his development. He has great point guard instincts and is ready to relieve Walker at the point and contribute about 10ppg in the Big East. Lamb, a slashing two guard is starting to show some life on offense as he had 11 and 12 points in the last two games including some treys. Giffey, a 6'7" German import is coming along slowly but nicely. I think as the season progresses he will be a steady contributor with some big games as he finds his stroke. Roscoe Smith, UCONN's most highly touted recruit at an athletic 6'8" tall is a bit hard to read at this point and has raised some questions in my mind. Although he has produced back to back double figures the flashes of his athleticism have come on defense with some eye opening blocked shots. He has struggled offensively and I am concerned that he is a not a good jump shooter, particularly from 15 ft. out, critical for someone of his size. I think his jump shot will improve, but how much that is true this season is an important an open question.
The Huskies resume play on Dec. 20 against Coppin State, Harvard on the 22nd, then the BiG East schedule starts on Dec.27 in an away game against Pitt.
At this point, I can say unequivocably that this year's Huskies are an exciting, hustling bunch who will make the Big Dance.(If they go .500 in conference play they are in.) The development of the Freshmen is critical to how far this team can go. Napier is ready for prime time but the others are works in progress. Let's also not forget the somewhat puzzling 6'7" Sophomore, Jamal Coombs-McDaniel. He has a solid all around game but came to Storrs with the reputation of a lights out three point shooter, which he has yet to show. My hope is that he will develop into a streak shooter, a la Rashad Anderson, and add some needed points in bunches.
Right now, Calhoun seems to be leaning to a starting five of Walker and Lamb in the backcourt with Oriakhi, Olander( a solid if unspectacular Freshman banger) and Smith up front. The rotation is pretty deep with 10 players that Calhoun has been using including, Napier, Coombs-Mcdaniel, an improving Senior Guard Donnell Beverley, Oakwandu and Giffey off the bench.
Enjoy the break and then let's get ready to rumble
"You Heard it here First"
Steve