Overview:
Despite the exodus of some key personnel, Bob
Thomason’s squad repeated as regular season and
conference tournament champions. They are a little
different in style and approach from the teams of
the previous two seasons, but the results have been
similar. They had an impressive win at Western
Kentucky and they knocked off Texas A&M. They also
played Nevada very tough and finished the regular
season winning 13-of-14. Last season Thomason earned
mid-major coach of the year honors. He has arguably
done an even better job this season.
Possible Difference Maker: It’s all about
Christian Maraker. He can score inside and outside
and he does a nice job on the glass. Johnny Gray has
really come on at the guard spot, as has fellow
senior Mike Webb. 6-foot-5 swingman, Anthony Esparza
is very underrated. He’s a lefty with a nice
offensive game and he can really defend.
On Offense: They are very balanced and have
very good guard-play. They run their sets very well
and will look to get Maraker touches. Gray is super
quick off the dribble and can knock down the
perimeter shot.
On Defense: They are predominately a
man-to-man team, but they will show you a 1-2-2
zone. They don’t over extend. They do a great job of
positioning. They are always there on the catch.
Strength: They can really shoot it from the
perimeter and they have an effective inside-outside
game.
Weakness: They are not as big and strong as
they have been the past couple of seasons, which was
a big key to their success.
Key to Success: Their guards have to play
well. Gray and Webb have to get into the seems and
create.
How to Beat Them: Expose their lack of size
in the post by pounding it inside. It’s tough to
stop Gray and Maraker, but you want to at least
limit their productivity. Make them work for every
basket.
