In a contest that featured several encouraging developments the UCONN Huskies keyed off a 12-0 run to start the second half to spark a 67-53 win over the Rutgers Scarlet Knights. As he has in every game this season, Kemba Walker led the Huskies with 18 points (7-15 from the field) followed by another strong performance by Alex Oriakhi who had 17 pts and 12 rebounds. Shabazz Napier scored 4 points but in 26 minutes at the point he ran the offense well, distributed the ball beautifully and disrupted Rutger's offense with his stifling defensive play. Roscoe Smith chipped in with 9 and the improving Donnell Beverley contributed 7 points in 8 minutes of play.
It was clear from the outset that the husky brain trust stressed more shot distribution and this was the first game where it was well executed. The most effective mix of players seems to be shaping up and was apparent in the second half. The Huskies are at their best with Napier at point, Walker at two guard, and Smith, Giffey and Combs Mcdaniel splitting the bulk of the time at Forward, with Oriakhi at center. Beverley seems to be developing into an effective second point guard and this enables Walker to play off the ball most of the game. Tonight, Kemba was not pressing on offense, looked more relaxed and took far better and fewer shots than he has since Maui. Interesting, Jamaal Combs-Mcdaniel was touted as an excellent three point shooter in last season's pre-season prognostications. He had a poor year as a Freshman, but Calhoun has been encouraging him to use his size, 6'7" and mobility to go to the hoop more this year. Tonight he had several nice drives and also added two treys- he could be a tremendous asset if he continues to develop. Finally, I just love Shabazz Napier- he gets the ball upcourt quickly in UCONN's vaunted transition game and is becoming stingier and smarter distributing the ball- In the words of the great Dickie V, Shabazz has gone from a diaper dandy to a PTPer in half a season.
"You Heard it here First"
Steve
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2 comments:
Encouraging game. I agree that Nappier, Walker, and Oriakhi are the core. Especially, a more assertive Oriakhi and Walker taking better shots. I thought Roscoe Smith was better than Giffey. He is kind of wild and quirky, but Smith is a more threatening player than Giffey and maybe he could mature into a big contributor.
Smith's development will be a big factor in far they can go. As I have said, my concern is about his shooting which will improve but maybe not this season.
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