The Friars are 5-2, with the two losses coming on an acrobatic tip in at the buzzer and in overtime. As they say ‘close only counts in horseshoes and hand grenades’ but given the circumstances these are very positive results.
Beyond the record, it is clear this group has benefited from a full off season in Ed Cooley’s program. They are physically and mentally stronger. The defensive statistics are telling and that is what many will focus on throughout the year given past ills, but there is clear advancement on the offensive end in terms of organization and execution as well.
Yes, there are turnovers and forced shots but show me any sampling of college games that do not have these.
We will see what happens as the caliber of opponent increases but, no matter what, if this team is going to be competitive in conference play they are going to need to get better on the defensive glass.
Sidiki Johnson should help in that department.
Bill Reynolds had a great feature in the ProJo this week on Bryce Cotton’s emergence and how he taught himself to remake his jumper between his freshman and sophomore years.
The Legend of Ice continues to grow.
