Happy New Year, all.
I hope everyone enjoyed the holidays as much as I did. I'm hoping our Miners have better fortune in 2019 than the previous few years. Let's face it, lots off heads were cut off and replaced when it comes to head coaches, as well as the Miner AD.
That is all behind us and we need to look ahead and not stay stuck in the past. That being said, our basketball team is in our immediate future and our efforts need to be focused on this team. I honestly believe our team can rattle some cages in CUSA this year. if the Miners continue to progress asvthey have been, they have a good chance in being in CUSA's Top 5 bybthe end of the season.
Let's break it down a little.
Cons- free throws, losing the ball, no bench, no experience, poor communication, and very young.
Pro's- last few games FT's have vastly improved, the team plays smarter every time they hit the floor, superb individual effort is becoming contagious, and the coaches are doing more with less.
Let's break down the individuals:
Eze- let's face it, he's just a body out there. The kid is very athletic, but can't transfer it to the court right now. I hope he improves and Terry has him Red Shirt next year.
Efe- are you not entertained? This kid has better stats than Vince Hunter, but uses less energy. this kid is a huge problem for opposing teams and he just started. He is playing like a 4.5* recruit.
Thomas- I don't think anyone is happy with his play right now. Terry included. His Soph year was his best year and has gone down hill after that. I wish the kid luck in the job market once he graduates.
Campbell- the kid can't shoot or make free throws, but he rebounds, plays defense, hustles, and takes advantage of opportunities. He is the best walk on we have and a great replacement for Dekoninck.
Lathon- has started to relax and while his defense, rebounding, and overall athleticism has always been good, his offense has picked up. Driving, shooting, and free throws are much better. This should be our starting PG.
Hawkins- the kid has been off and on all year. However, I do like how he pushes through and doesn't get down on himself when he is not on. His D and rebounding are good. I'm betting we see him make noise in conference play.
Gilyard- the kid is a spark plug and continues to keep the team in games with his scoring ability. Room for improvement in free throws, defense, and jacking up off balanced 3's.
Magee- is playing back up PG very well. He protects the ball better than anyone and gets his players involved well. Kid needs to shoot from the perimeter more, play better D, and hit free throws.
Overall, we have 3 fantastic players in Gilyard, Lathon, and Odigie. If Thomas decides to wake up and Hawkins hits his shot with frequency, this team can be in the CUSA Top 5. We won't be competing for a CUSA title or even winning the CUSA tourney this year because we are young and we have no depth. However, next year looks to have a bit more talent and loads of depth.
Go Miners
