Some observations of my first visit to Brooklyn Hoops at the Barclay Center:
At first glance of the stats this is what stands out: Huskies had 6 Blocks and 10 Steals–the Terps 0 blocks and 5 steals
The quickness of UConn just created many more easy shots. Super guard Shabazz Napier dominated play with 18 points, 7 bounds, and 7 assists. When he fouled out the entire game changed.
I had no problem with Dez’ first game winning shot, but his 2nd, a moving step back jumper made no sense. Though Dex sparked the comeback his erratic play did not produce his best. Dez finished with13 points on 3-10 shooting but committed 6 turnovers, hampering his point guard role. Though Turgeon said afterwards, Dez was still his PG. The growth of Roddy Peters should eventually place him in that role.
Before the game I interviewed Don Markus from the Sun and told him we must get at least 15 points from Jake or there was no way we could win. Jake finished with 13 after being double teamed most of the game. Do the math.
Early on Evan Smoltrycz kept the Terps within distance of UConn by hitting his first 4 shots. The transfer finished with 13 points and 9 assists.
The Baltimore native Nick Faust finished the game with 17 points but had an Alan Iverson like 5-18 shooting day.
12,700 attended the game-probably 80% of which were Maryland fans
Concern—Perhaps this could have been the type of win out of the conference that could make a difference in March. Somewhere along the line will be a need to win against a strong ooc opponent –OSU on the road in the Big 10–ACC challenge?
A great game to start the season. Much promise lies ahead for Maryland.
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