http://www.sportingnews.com/college-bask...r-bearcats
Sporting News college basketball columnist Mike DeCourcy answers five questions of the week in his sport.
1. What's been the most impressive preseason showing so far?
DeCourcy: As far as what I've seen with my eyes, it's been Cincinnati freshman Lance Stephenson. I watched him practice and scrimmage last week, and it's fairly obvious he is going to have a spectacular season.
I sat next to a veteran NBA scout at the practice who was impressed with Stephenson's demeanor, body language and selfless play. That's because those issues were of concern when Stephenson arrived at Cincinnati from Brooklyn's Lincoln High. The scout compared him to Portland's Brandon Roy because, like Roy, Stephenson "can do it all," the scout said.
While Stephenson comported himself properly, he tore up the gym like few players I've seen in a Division I practice. Every offensive possession was another opportunity to do something extraordinary. Stephenson is the most physically powerful wing to enter college basketball since – since – I'm sorry, but I can't remember a young wing with this degree of strength. He also is a better passer than most of the top freshman point guards.
Stephenson should concentrate harder when taking open shots. He's great at making tough, guarded shots but tends to lose focus when presented a wide-open jumper. Right now, there aren't many more negatives.
Some of my competitors were debating Wednesday on Twitter who will be the top five college freshmen this season. Nobody mentioned Stephenson. They will be regretting that, soon