Bobby Crimmins had a good game plan, but the College of Charleston coach had no way of preparing for the dynamo that is Russ Smith.
The scouting report on Louisville probably dictates sticking with a zone, especially with the way Peyton Siva is shooting lately. Don’t worry about the big guys in the middle, they’re not going to shoot from 10 feet out, even if they’re wide open. They will run into you or over you attempting a layup, drawing fouls.
When the report gets to Russ Smith, however, the advice has to be “good luck” because he defies logic, is so unpredictable and he rarely follows a pattern. How could a coach plan for a player who brings boundless energy, wild man stuff, on offense and defense? The answer is one can’t, just have to hope he stops himself.
Russ might have done that a few games ago, but not lately, exercising more self control on offense. Not always, but more consistently. Takes confidence to take some of the shots he takes, hitting them when U of L needed them the most in a win against a good Charleston team.
- Kyle Kuric was into this one, fearing this opposition, knowing CC was quite capable. Bet the scouting report didn’t have any mention of him possibly playing the five spot, providing the production so needed at the time.
- Peyton Siva not back up to speed, running in slow motion, still shooting horribly, but knowing what has to get done, when it has to happen.
- Gorgui Dieng still learning, getting better, will be turning his attention to taking advantage of open 10-foot shots. He embraces challenges, and he will focus on this one in the very near future.
- Jared Swopshire, you know the new Jared Swopshire, looking more like the old Swopshire lately. Gotta get serious, break a sweat, push or get pushed around.
- Chris Smith was not going to let anyone beat him on defense, and he does it so smoothly, he rarely gets in foul trouble. Those three-pointers are always nice surprises.
Looks like Coach and the team are still trying to get the feel for the new rotation. I think Swop is aware of the competiton for playing time and has taken the role of sub too seriously. Meanwhile Wayne B waits on the sidelines and K. Ware is ready to go. That means less time for non-starters.
Russ Smith continues to amaze and confound at the same time. He has a split-personality: drive and dish; or shoot and ask questions later. Problem is he’s been successful at both and also failed miserably. I love/hate Sophomores. 🙂
On the other hand…CRP has been excellent at adapting the available players to the game situation. Glad we have him as our coach.
11-0. Very nice. Let’s keep it going.
Go Cards!