Here is where we talk about multiple topics in college basketball as of late. Check out the latest.
UNC looks much stronger with Cadeau and Davis on the floor at the same time
It is about time we start watching more college basketball, and we kicked off last night tuning into a Top-25 showdown between Tennessee and North Carolina. UNC jumped out to a big lead by halftime but the Vols started to creep back into in the second half. However, the Tar Heels had their offense clicking and was able to hold on to an impressive 100-92 victory at home. This brings me to the topic here; I believe North Carolina is at its best when freshman Elliot Cadeau and junior RJ Davis are on the floor at the same time. UNC has mixed its starting lineup up a few times this season, but I believe this team is at its best when the two guards are helping run the show. I said it before back when Davis was in high school that he has a chance to flourish at North Carolina (Read Here). And he is showing that full potential as a scoring threat this season, especially in the last three games. Davis is averaging 19.4ppg to start the season, as he continues to show he is wired to score and knock down shots and that he may be better suited as a scoring guard for the Heels. And that is where Cadeau comes in, as this allows him to flourish more as a true point guard, as he dished out 10 assists vs. Tennessee last night.
Not only does this open up the court more, but it allows these two to play more of their natural positions and showcase more where they shine. It also allows the Heels to have two strong ball-handlers on the court, handling pressure and getting others involved when needed.
How impressive has Dalton Knecht been for Tennessee'
Another takeaway from the game is the play of senior 6’6 guard Dalton Knecht this season. Many could learn from this young man, as he has worked his way up the ladder, thrived at Northern Colorado, and doing so once again in the SEC. He is averaging 20.3 points per game and proving that he should be considered by multiple NBA teams at the next level. His ability to operate and be effective in a variety of ways is impressive; scoring strong off the bounce, being physical and finishing from multiple levels, stepping out along the perimeter, making high IQ decisions and playing with a tremendous feel… he does so much on the court. Whether he is with or without the ball, he is strong out in space and getting to his spots, and is a strong shooter from all levels. He showed that last night against North Carolina, going for 37 points on 13-for-17 shooting from the floor.
Time to Spotlight a Phenom Hoops Alum: Memphis David Jones
We always want to spotlight former Phenom Hoops’ Alums and one player that has kicked off the season in style has been senior David Jones, a 6’6 prospect in his first year with the Tigers. The senior prospect is putting up some strong numbers so far, averaging 17.8ppg, 6.2rpg, 1.3apg, and shooting 46 percent from the floor and 44 percent from three. Jones is a player who continues to elevate his play and is playing his best basketball, as he is a player to watch more of. His 3-point shooting has drastically improved to start the season, and he continues to thrive on the offensive end. When we watched Jones back at Teay’s Valley, he was a terrific scorer with a physical presence; he uses his strength and can body defenders up at 6’6, but also score from multiple levels as he is showing it all at Memphis early on. Start jotting the name down more.