another early morning and Another tough matchup
7 am practice called for me to wake up at 545am to get something in my stomach before heading to the training room to get warmed up and stretched out thoroughly. Hit the court promptly at 7 and much of practice consisted of putting together pieces of offensive sets. And of course, defense is still an emphasis. It went well and chemistry is starting to catch up to our intensity. It is still early to have complete execution of the offense but we are making strides. Following practice we lifted weights and I found myself ready for the day to end at about 1030am. Just on time for class at 11am. After class, I took it easy for most of the day and stayed of my feet. We have a practice tomorrow night at 8pm so I will have time to get in some shooting and stuff tomorrow afternoon.
As for another matchup on our schedule--- UNCA @ Tennessee ---- On paper, nobody would give us a chance in hell to win this game considering what UT did in the tournament last year. However, I feel differently. Though, I do like thier team with the 3 gunners in the backcourt in Chris Lofton, JaJuan Smith, and freshman Ramar Smith. All three averaging double figures in scoring with Lofton leading the way with 20ppg. They are also creating for teammates with all three leading in assists as well. Defensively, their style of play allows them to get steals and shoot a lot of shots. Very good players. With that said, I like us playing them because of our backcourt matchups. Their press is very effective (especially in Knoxville) and our team will have TOs against it. However, we are experienced enough to limit the TOs and control the game with our speed, quickness, and decision making abilities. They also give up a lot of shots because of the full court press--- I am looking to capitalize on this. Our frontcourt isn't quite as experienced and this is where we could see a problem---Unless, we recognize this quickly, as I just have, and reiterate to my big guys to run hard every play as if we have to play UT tomorrow--it starts today. If they can run the floor effectively on both ends we will have the opportunity to surprise some people. A game for me to do damage against a highly touted guard with similar career goals in his pursuit to play professional basketball.
