Ramblerguy wrote:
More observations....
Apparent we have moved up the talent level, handling former rivals handily. Problematic is that this stretch of pre conference games isn't testing enough to assure we are ready for conference. I worry about the lack of consistency on offense from Richardson, and still think our lack of height will hurt us. Don't you think Jackson will get way more attention in the Valley games? Maybe Kirby should be getting more minutes? I guess things are good when I start obsessing about this stuff. Also, while sitting on the couch watching basketball all day, now finishing up with the Butler game, I think its neat when the stadium floor is lit and the stands away from the floor are dark.. Take the focus to the game and away from not too exciting seating situation. Thoughts and GO Ramblers!
I'm not too worried about Richardson's consistency on offense. They didn't really go to him to much today, he's proven to be clutch in crunch time this year. And he's probably only our fourth or fifth offensive option once Donte comes back (which is a FANTASTIC thing, not a diss on Richardsons game).
The only frustrating thing right now is rebounding. Giving up too many offensive boards...with Donte's return that should improve somewhat. But it likely will be a season of struggles in that regard. My only other concern is motion offenses seem to be effective against us. Gonna be important to lock that down against teams like Evansville (who are doing far better than i expected, while the peaks of the MVC may not be as high I really think the level of play overall is up).
Other takeaways
-Granic continues to improve, nice to see him finish strong down low. I also believe he had a block
-Tyson Smith is coming on stronger. Gritty defender, his shots and speed coming back too.
-haven't seen minute counts but I liked what i saw
-Arguably Doyle's best game as a Rambler? Points, Assists, Rebounds, SWAGGER (the dunks, the CROSSOVER)
-Aundre just eats people alive down low. Such good touch
-To go back to swagger; can we talk about this teams confidence? It's building every game and i love it. JCT has mentioned the old Butler teams... I can't really speak to those not having seen them play but this teams attitude is growing and i really like it. Confident, not cocky.
-Lets get go get UIC.