Overview:
Bucknell was a bracket buster a season ago,
putting Kansas out of the NCAA Tournament in a 4 vs.
13 game. The Bison are back for more following an
undefeated regular season run through an overmatched
Patriot League. Bucknell has chugged along at a fine
pace this season without getting much production
from its bench. But in recent weeks, players like
forward Donald Brown have been stepping up and
giving coach Pat Flannery some productive minutes.
Not only were they the first Patriot League team to
ever crack the national rankings, but they became
the first team in league history to go wire to wire
without a loss (14-0 regular season, 2-0 league
tournament).
Potential Difference Maker: Senior co-caption
Charles Lee is one of those solid guys who really
doesn't have a weakness in his game. The
CollegeInsider.com Mid-Major All-America selection
ranks eighth in the conference in scoring (12.8 ppg),
second in rebounding (6.1 rpg), third in steals
(2.14 spg), eighth in field-goal percentage (43.6%)
and 10th in assists (2.93 apg). Kevin Bettencourt is
unconscious from beyond the arc.
On Offense: This is a very balanced team,
with good inside-out scoring with Chris McNaughton
and Bettencourt. Savvy and tough lead guard, Abe
Badmus is a below average shooter, but exceptional
at getting the ball to his scorers in rhythm. That
is one of the key components of their offense --
getting the ball in rhythm. They have excellent ball
movement and everyone moves well without the
basketball. They runs a lot of sets and they run
them well.
On Defense: This is an excellent defensive
team. They will play man-to-man about 75% of the
time. They will also use a matchup zone, which is
essentially a free switching man-to-man.
Strength: Experience and balance. This group
has been through the battles. It’s an excellent
execution team and they screen very well. They are
also one of the better "bust through screens" teams
in the country.
Weakness: Their overall athleticism and they
become a different team when McNaughton gets in foul
trouble.
Key to Success: Continuity. These kids know
what it takes. They won’t buckle under pressure and
they will keep coming at you. They are so solid.
How to Beat Them: Attack McNaughton inside,
disrupt their offensive sets with ball pressure,
increase tempo of game.
