My favorite stat for this year's team is the 65.8% assist rate, good for #4 in the nation. Almost 2/3 of MU's made baskets come courtesy of a helper from a teammate. MU has always been very good at this under Buzz, but this year we are GREAT. There's not a selfish player on this team. It all starts with Cadougan, probably the most underrated player on the squad. His assist rate of 35% is 34th in the nation, 9th among high major schools, and 4th in the Big East (would be 5th had Woodall not missed so much time). I think how he performs down the stretch will be one of the main keys to MU's success. He had a couple poor games in a row against Syracuse and Georgetown, but since then he has been on fire dishing the ball, with games of 7, 9, 6, 10, & 5 assists.
We all saw how he can dominate a big game when he put us on his back and seemingly willed us to victory against WVU in the BEast tournament last year to cement our place in the NCAA's. When he is aggressive and forcing the issue, MU can look damn near unbeatable. I also like how he hasn't been shy to pull the trigger when teams lay off of him lately. He needs to do that to keep them honest, and I have a feeling they will start to fall. Here's to more of the same down the stretch!
I've noticed that teams have recognized that too, playing the passing lanes and anticipating the dribble kick-outs or the swing passes.
Quote from: 77ncaachamps on January 27, 2012, 12:09:14 PM
I've noticed that teams have recognized that too, playing the passing lanes and anticipating the dribble kick-outs or the swing passes.
The turnovers have been up this season vs. previous Buzz teams...I was encouraged by the low number last game, though. I think the team had to adjust having a third option in DG to establish in the low post after Otule's injury. Opposing teams are now trying to take DG away as an option--either by collapsing on him, going after him on D, or both. Buzz has adjusted and DJO, Crowder, JWilson and Mayo have increased their trey shooting %'s recently as a result. DG has shown more/different moves in the post lately and Jwill has been more active by flashing more and stepping out when he is in. Junior and Blue are the most valuable in transition, and they are understanding their roles better as well...with even a few outside shots to keep the defenses honest.
DG is a beast to prepare for...and MU is realizing it and becoming more adaptable. When he first took over after Otule's injury, the guards just fed the post and watched. Now you are seeing a lot more movement by the other four within the offense when DG gets the rock or different looks when he is out.
It's because MU is a TEAM, not a collection of "stars". It's a cliche, but this is one instance where the whole is greater than the sum of its parts (although the parts aren't too shabby, either).