Starters. J.T., Ben, Marius, James and Roger. Nothing wrong with that. Marius is probably starting instead of Mariek because the coaches believe he's better on defense. Mariek gets beat a lot out on the floor and he's not quick enough to get off his three point shot on his own. That's why I think he's a natural four in our offense. He'll probably be the first player in to replace James W. or Roger. I don't disagree with the coaches on this one. I know some of you think he's a three, but he's just not, IMO. Assuming everyone, including the coach is back next year, he'll be first in line to replace James. And with another year of maturity and work in the weight room, he'll be fine in that capacity.

The problem with Mareik is that Steve have never had a player like him and don't really know how to use him. Top 5 in all categories only playing 13 minutes a game. Do your research, numbers don't lie coaches do.

B. provide the numbers you refer to. I am too lazy to look them up.

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Go to ualrtrojans.com, than men's basketball, than look for stats.

(12-14-2014 11:03 AM)B. Mitchell Wrote:  The problem with Mareik is that Steve have never had a player like him and don't really know how to use him. Top 5 in all categories only playing 13 minutes a game. Do your research, numbers don't lie coaches do.

What are his defensive numbers that don't lie?

Personally, I think as a coach you have to find a way to get him on the court.

We did play zone with him out there against Tulsa but our defense is bad with or without him.

He'll get playing time. I think his minutes went up to an acceptable level against Tulsa. I don't mean to sound negative toward him. He's contributing good minutes. I don't think it's that the coaches don't know what to do with him. We had a player with some similar size and skills named Shane Edwards, and I think he'll fit into that mold by next year. A swing guy, rotating between the three and four on offense, and playing primarily the four on defense. I think the addition of Roger Woods compromised his playing time this season. I haven't looked back at last game's stats, but I think I recall his minutes went up to over 20, and well deserved. I foresee him playing at least 20 minute today, which for a big guy is probably not bad. Big men tire more easily and don't usually play as many minutes as smaller guard types. At least that's been my observation. Obviously doesn't hold true in every situation. Hope Mariek has a great game today.

You all know I'm 100% Mareik fan because I have had a chance to interact with him and him taking time with my son. I have done my research on him and this kid will be one of the best to ever play here if Steve don't run him off or if he don't leave after he graduates next summer. He wouldn't have a problem finding another school to take him.

It is a logical starting lineup, but Maurius is going to have to step up.

As usual you can't trust the starting lineup listed in the paper. Marius didn't start, and I'll have to look to see if he even played. I don't recall seeing him in the game. Disappointing loss, but a good close game to watch. I think I've finally figured some things out which I will discuss in a separate post.