• Doubling the ball screen - we were able to generate a bunch of turnovers when doing it, but also gave up open layups (Buff first 6 pts) when the rotation didn't cover fast enough after Buffalo would pass out of the double.  Will be interesting to see if Christian doubles against some of the better guards in the MAC. Given Buffalo's guards - nice scouting and good plan
• Keely has really improved the "pace" to his post moves.  Sometimes he attacks right away, sometimes he looks for the cutter then attacks.  Keeping the defender off balance is crucial as a post player and he's really good at it.
• Wouldn't be surprised if teams start rotating 2 guards back on def transition and only sending 3 to the offensive boards.  We are fantastic in transition.  Baltic can really fly.
• I've read the comments on giving up off rebs on here before.  Maybe that's why we'll see our squad continue to trap handoffs and ballscreens on the perimeter.  Traditionally, teams that trap a lot tend to give up more off rebounds because of the scrambling/recovering that ensues after the pass out of the trap.
• It looks like everyone knows what their role is.  Didn't see too many forced shots or guys doing things that they can't do.  Overall quality of our shots was high.  That helps team chemistry too.
• Like Christian's demeanor on sideline.  First time I've seen it but I'd call it "even keel" - I think that mixes well with a team with a ton of experience like we have.
• I'm curious who the vocal leader is on the squad.
• Great MAC start.

I came away with really only one concern, and that's the number of times the opponent continues to go to the line compared to OUr guys.  I'm not criticizing either of the last two games (how the heck could I?) but the number of fouls OUr guys commit compared to the number of times they get to the line is going to be a problem in those games when OUr guys aren't shooting high percentages like they have the last two games.  33 attempts for UB last night compared to 18 for OU, and it has been a trend throughout the year so far. 

• DJ's improved shot selection has been widely discussed.  His improved percentage from behind the arc has not been yet.  If he continues taking good shots, and makes 35%+ on the season from deep, go ahead an order the MAC Regular Season Champs banner.
• Reg looked like a man last night.  I also loved our insistence on feeding him the rock early.
• Ivo looked strong as well, and was aggressive.  I'm fairly confident that the coaches sat the entire team down and told them they needed to start attacking, early and often.  The message seems to have been absorbed.
• Jon played quality minutes last night.  I'm more of a fan of him coming off the bench.
• I'm still not convinced Walt is completely healthy.  Last year, he was blowing past guy's that play at much higher levels.  This year, his first step is MIA.
• Any MAC game where you're pulling starts with 10 minutes left if pretty stellar.  I hope we roll into Kalamazoo.

Last Edited: 1/10/2013 1:02:46 PM by bobcatsquared