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Message: [QUOTE="OrangeXtreme, post: 3581491, member: 41"] Girard said his freshman year had "a lot of ups and downs." He prioritized learning last year and thinks "he picked it up pretty fast." Girard said one of his offseason goals was improving his turnover-to-assist ratio and taking the knowledge he learned playing in the 2-3 zone and applying it to his performance. He's also trying to be a little more vocal as a ball-handler and someone who's one year older. Girard said he has no scoring goals. "The only goal I have is just to win." He believes in this team, which is "chomping at the bit" to compete against another team after spending the last 4-5 months together. Girard said he's gained weight this offseason from 180-185 to 190-195. That's helped him create separation on the drive as well as work through screens at the top of the zone. Girard said improving his assist-to-TO ratio comes down to 1. Not trying to force plays that he could get away with in high school and 2. Using that bolstered frame to put himself in more efficient positions with the ball. Girard said he thinks one key to improved play in the frontcourt is confidence. He's been impressed with that group this year and how they're developing heading into the season. Girard said he and Buddy Boeheim are wired similarly and they've enjoyed training together this offseason. "We still know we have a lot more to grow, but as of right now we love what we're doing." Girard said learning to channel his hyper-competitive, win-at-all-costs attitude has helped him on the court as he's grown up. It may have been a detriment in middle school. Girard said he probably went for too many steals working at the top of the zone as a freshman. Defensively, he's also tried to focus on his responsibilities in various situations, like when the ball is in the high post. Improved play at the center position could go a long way toward overall defensive performance. Girard said for the guards, that would allow them to stay higher up rather than having to inch down and help. Girard said Buddy Boeheim is a better golfer than him. They've spent time playing with limited opportunities for indoor activity during the pandemic. Girard said Alan Griffin has a "really high motor." Good offensive rebounder and jump shooter. Has meshed with the returning players well. "I think he's going to have a really successful year and help us a lot." Girard said he did lifting during the pandemic with family members who play football. That contributed to his weight gain along with individual training. Correction: Girard said he’s up to 195-200 pounds. [/QUOTE]

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