Date: November 11th, 2022

Time: 8:30 PM

Opponent: Elon (1-0, 0-0 CAA)

Place: Harrah's Cherokee Center - Asheville (7,654)

Television: none

Webcast: ESPN+ *(subscription)

Radio online: 640WXSM.com

Elon 2022-2023 Schedule

Elon 2022-2023 Roster

Very glad to see this matchup will be available on ESPN+. During these early season games there are several things I want to watch for.

Before the season started, my biggest concern was, who will run the point? It looks like Allen Strothers has the skills to get the job done, and I expect him to become more and more comfortable as the season goes on. Jordan King and DeAnthony Tipler are not strong ball handlers. They are great shooters, but I believe both will have trouble bringing the ball up against pressure defense — especially against tall, athletic opponents.

It remains to be seen, but those type of defenders may give the relatively small, slender Strothers trouble, too. If that's the case, the answer may be, Justice Smith (he may be the answer to a lot of questions). Last season, when Sloan was on the bench, if the opposing team turned up the pressure, Coach Oliver would have Ledarrius Brewer bring the ball up. It looks like Smith has the size, agility, and ball handling ability to fill that role if needed.

In fact, after his performance versus Emory & Henry, I find it hard to tamp down my enthusiasm for Smith this year. It's way too early and a very small sample size, but he looks very good. I've been wondering if this team has a player who can get a basket, on his own, when it comes down to crunch time. Every really good team has that player. Maybe it's Smith? Time will tell.

I'm anxious to see how good our bigs really are, especially as we begin take on foes on our competition level. So far, there is a whole lot to like, especially if Jalen Haynes settles down a little bit and plays under control. Brock Jancek looks like he will be a rock steady performer. Jaden Seymour is a great defender and more. Not much flash, but you look up and he's quietly stuffed the stat sheet. Josh Taylor is very athletic. Hopefully, he gets comfortable after a few more games.

And, Coach Oliver seems more relaxed and confident. He's got a year under his belt now, the mess he inherited is in the rearview mirror, and I think he really likes the potential for this team. Also, it's really nice to see Joe Hugley on the bench. I'm guessing he has great rapport with the players.

Preseason poll for the CAA has Elon 12 of 13 teams.

Sloppy start

(11-11-2022 09:23 PM)JWBUC Wrote:  Sloppy start

Miles to go on defense. And, on offense, not much good is going to happen when our small guards put their heads down and dribble into traffic.

Definitely some kinks to work out but I continue to be impressed with our bigs, especially Haynes (and Jancek off the bench). Taylor with a solid game as well. Glad they were able to finish off the game in the second half and never let it get close.

Louisiana will be tough on Sunday. They have a pro prospect big in Jordan Brown. Will be a good test for the team

The coaches did a good job of going out getting some transfers to give us the length and height to be a competitive team. Jalen is 6ft. 8in, and 250 Lbs. You cannot coach 250 pounds. Bucs just need to improve as there will be tough teams down the road starting with Sunday. So far so good!