I know tendency on this board after a loss is for the sky is falling crowd to dominate, but I fully expected this team to take a few tough L's to start the season as they come together and learn to play as a team.
There were a lot of positives to take away from last night's game. Among them:
-Backup Center position appears to be an upgrade from last year. Hima has the ability to block shots and be an intimidating force in the middle. Loved how well he rebounded yesterday too. As Jesse will always find himself in some level of foul trouble at points this year, it's nice knowing this kid can ball. Reminds me a little of Keita but with better hands. He will net us a win or two that would have been losses last year over the course of the year.
-Rebounding from the front court showed incredible improvement over the Richmond game. The athleticism and effort there was leaps and bounds better, JB calling them out had it's desired effect, that kept in the game.
-We had a chance to win this game in regulation, and some unexpected missed FTs and bunnies in regulation were the difference. I have confidence as the team gets more experience that those shots are more likely to fall than not.
-Benny's shooting is vastly improving. His mid range jumper is money, and if he can provide that kind of energy/rebounding and an occasional three ball, we'll be better than last year.
-Jesse is slowly getting his sea legs back and the team is looking for him more. Benny's pass to him over traffic last night was a thing of beauty.
-Judah is a star...hands down the most talented guard we've had in years, he has swagger and is improving every game. If we manage to make the tourney, he will carry us. Can't wait to see him evolve.
Overall, I think we will finish Top 5 in the ACC this year as it comes together. We have to lick our wounds and continue to improve, but this team will be dangerous once we figure it out. And I believe we will.
