(03-02-2015 11:59 AM)bigblue78 Wrote: [ -> ]Palmore will need play a significant role in Birmingham for ODU to be successful. There is no doubt that ODU is a better team with Freeman on the floor, but as hard as Freeman plays and as relentlessly as opponents defend him, 100+ mins over 3 days may be more than he can deliver.
JJ has to be judicious in subbing for Freeman in order to advance, but a strong 10-12 mins/g from KP could be a difference maker.
Another thing that has worked is putting Palmore at the point and letting Freeman play the SG. It keeps him on the floor while giving him a bit more space to work. Plus Palmore's drive to the hole game compliments Freeman's outside game...he can drive and kick it out to an open Freeman.
(03-02-2015 10:58 AM)odufansam Wrote: [ -> ]What Keenan brings to the team is invaluable IMO. I would love to see him get more playing time because he attacks the defense.
I know a lot of people on here weren't big fans of Batten, but he was a physical guard that wasn't afraid to attack the basket. We need that balance of having spot shooters with guards that are also willing to attack. I think ODU has gotten themselves in trouble in games this year when they settled for jump shots instead of attacking.
You are right. Attacking the basket is very, very important. Bacote has also been doing more of that lately, and I hope he continues to do so. There's no substitute for it when the long ball isn't falling, which for us is more often than not. Attacking the basket collapses the defense, draws fouls, and can result in three point plays. I'd like to see more of it myself.