Freeman | Page 2 | Syracusefan.com

Freeman

One of the issues with kids who are projected (or self project) to
be an early out to the next level is how defense is even a factor
for them. There's no arguing that offensive skills and overall
athleticism are much coveted by the NBA.
That might be an
over simplification, but the top level kids know that's where
their bread is buttered, so that's where the mindset is.

Compounding the problem (vs years ago) is the real emphasis
on individual player development as opposed to an emphasis
on team success. I won't call it selfish necessarily, but the portal
has shown a bright light on where priorities currently are.

I don't think that is accurate based on recent drafts. Athleticism certainly matters, I 100% agree with that.

But being a one way offensive player. who is showing ineptness and/or effort issues on D at the prior level, is a ticket to getting heavily dinged by scouts well before draft night. You will still get drafted, but your spot will be impacted. Exceptions of course are made for those who are projected as very likely 1 or 2 options at the NBA level.

For those who are not projected as very likely 1 or 2 options, their D, and their versatility on D is extremely important to their draft position at this point. (of course they need to be projected as being competent shooters).

The #1 and #5 picks in the recent draft were picked mostly because of their projected defensive impact -- and their ability on D already.

The whole NBA focuses only on offence is no longer accurate in my view. Yes its very hard to defend in the NBA because almost all players have learned to shoot somewhat effectively -- and if you can't shoot and start you are typically a great screener. But teams now more than ever are trying to get the athlete, who they project can shoot and defend.
 
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Eddie said last night that guys need to cut more when he gets the ball. Stop standing around and watching. He will find you. Davis is the most consistent cutting to open spots.
J Will pointed this out on the broadcast as well. Everyone standing around out on the perimeter. Starling does this too much as well.
 
Did we all watch the same game. Yes Bell killed us but the reason Donnie wasnt playing is his defense was horrible. How many times can people drive bye him and score with little to no effort. If he played defense like he plays offense then we will be set but he isnt. They drove bye him at will all game. When he went out we went on the run. You dont change anything when your on a run lol. Maybe he will realize defending people will get u on court more. He has a lot of lazy in him and i agree it dont help with Bell playing lazy either. Jogging back on defense should never be allowed. Honestly for now on, Coach should have a play defense or sit moment. We may not win as much but in order to change the culture, u have to make your point that it wont be tolerated period. If Freeman played with same intensity as Davis, Kid would be all-world.
He is a teenager on his 4th game of college basketball. He played 4 minutes in the 2nd half and was up cheering which shows how great of a teammate he is. He's adjusting to the speed of the game and by the end of the year you will not recognize him.
 
I don't really see a reason to play Bell over Freeman when he isn't hitting threes. Donnie has a more diverse offensive skillset and is a great rebounder. Donnie is also longer and i'd prefer him defensively if we are in the zone. It also is way more beneficial to play our 5 star freshman and to watch him develop than our junior who really hasn't shown much growth.
Our best lineup last night was Carlos-Starling-Davis-Bell-Lampkin and it wasn't especially close.

I'm not saying Donnie needs to be in the doghouse but Chris is contributing when his shot isn't falling, which is a notable contrast from his first two seasons. Still, Tech has been very good at locking down the perimeter (29th nationally in opponent 3PA/FGA) so if we can't get Chris going early I would expect a quick hook.
 
He is a teenager on his 4th game of college basketball. He played 4 minutes in the 2nd half and was up cheering which shows how great of a teammate he is. He's adjusting to the speed of the game and by the end of the year you will not recognize him.
I honestly believe ya cause he is way to talented. This wasnt a never play him again thing. I just want him to understand it takes both sides and he will get it.
 
That's exactly what Jay Williams was saying during the game on a couple of occasions.
I’ve had my gripes with Jay but last night was one of the best games I’ve heard him on in my life.
 
I honestly believe ya cause he is way to talented. This wasnt a never play him again thing. I just want him to understand it takes both sides and he will get it.
Yeah sometimes these discussions get too focused on one player vs another when it’s not necessary. Sometimes both guys suck at the topic of discussion hahah
 
Our best lineup last night was Carlos-Starling-Davis-Bell-Lampkin and it wasn't especially close.

I'm not saying Donnie needs to be in the doghouse but Chris is contributing when his shot isn't falling, which is a notable contrast from his first two seasons. Still, Tech has been very good at locking down the perimeter (29th nationally in opponent 3PA/FGA) so if we can't get Chris going early I would expect a quick hook.

Carlos?!?! Please tell me that was a typo on your part.
 
Carlos?!?! Please tell me that was a typo on your part.

Screenshot 2024-11-22 152909.jpg
 

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