Two thoughts about our defense

[tower912]

1.   That 1-2-2 press changed the game.    About 4 minutes of a clinic on how to 3/4 court press and trap.
2.  Teams seem to be waiting to see which big DG is guarding and then sending him out to set the ball screen at the top.    The big Sheesh is not smooth hedging at the top of the key. 

[downtown85]

2.  Teams seem to be waiting to see which big DG is guarding and then sending him out to set the ball screen at the top.    The big Sheesh is not smooth hedging at the top of the key. 

This.  Pitt ran an offensive clinic with DG in the game.

[brewcity77]

I think DG is much better suited as a zone defender. I cringe every time I see him defending the perimeter or beyond because I know it pretty much guarantees an easy look for someone down low. When he's able to stay home, like the second half against SJU, he's actually developed into a decent defender.

[augoman]

all valid points, and especially agree about DG hedging..., whoa-easy layup every time.  Rather have seen Buzz try a box and 1 on Gibbs.  Could have rotated Blue/Codugan/Crowder/Mayo to keep fouls low without giving up too much O.  Could even have gone serious and put DW on Gibbs in a both ways face guard (with or without the ball).  I have a feeling Gibbs would have done so much pushing off and shoving to get open (his frustration level seemed to trip very easily) that he'd have seen some serious bench time.

[NersEllenson]

all valid points, and especially agree about DG hedging..., whoa-easy layup every time.  Rather have seen Buzz try a box and 1 on Gibbs.  Could have rotated Blue/Codugan/Crowder/Mayo to keep fouls low without giving up too much O.  Could even have gone serious and put DW on Gibbs in a both ways face guard (with or without the ball).  I have a feeling Gibbs would have done so much pushing off and shoving to get open (his frustration level seemed to trip very easily) that he'd have seen some serious bench time.

Pitt absolutely mastered our D with Gardner in the game...in my view...it is never a good idea to send the center (unless ultra athletic) out to high hedge on a ball screen..rather require guard to get over screen and center to play the underside/protect the basket/roll option.  If guard can't get over screen, offensive player still has to hit a jumper off the dribble.

As for our D on Gibbs yesterday - my feeling is that it was just one of those days for him where he was in the zone.  He hit a number of very contested shots...where you just have to tip your cap and say...Wow...