After watching our guys defeat a very competitive Grand Canyon team yesterday,
I made some observations about some of our new players:
I made some observations about some of our new players:
- Nazeer Bostick - his play yesterday can be summed up in one word. Solid. He didn't seem to make any typical rookie mistakes, which was good. He seems to play good defensively and seems to have a good jump shot. I was a little puzzled as to why he hadn't played the previous two games though. I know some people were thinking that he may redshirt this year, but I like that he is playing now, with his former RC teammates, Carr and Stevens.
- Terrance Samuel - looks like a good passer and plays well defensively. He's probably not going to start this year; but should provide good minutes off the bench. He's not the kind of offensive threat that will be able to pump in 20 pts., but he should provide quality minutes relieving others, and be able to add to the offense when called upon.
- Mike Watkins - wow!!! I just love this guy's game. Don't be surprised to see him have a few 20+ point games before the season is over; his offensive game still needs to improve though. You will see this improvement this year, as the season progresses. Mike is an excellent shot blocker because of his great quick timing. He'll probably set the all time shot blocking record at PSU before his career is over. Mike is definitely a big presence around the hoop and will fill the historical big man void for Penn State nicely. Watkins has a nice turn around jumper. He's still learning, but should learn very quickly this year. No real negatives about this guy as far as I'm concerned. If he can stay away from fouls, he'll play a majority of the team's minutes this year.
- Tony Carr - is your typical point guard. Tony likes to penetrate and is always playing upright with his vision scanning the floor. TC is not afraid to take the 3, and can make it at times; but his forte is the running jumper which he is very successful with because of his exceptional height for a point guard. Tony should average in double figures and will probably lead the team in assists.
- Lamar Stevens - this kid has a knack for scoring. He won't be jacking up a lot of 3's this year because that is probably his weakest area on offense; but around the bucket, he's killer. Lamar plays much bigger than he looks. He knows how to create close to the bucket and finishes well. Most of his points will come from inside 10 feet. And Lamar is an excellent foul shooter. Because Lamar plays a great inside game, he probably will lead the team at FT attempts this year; and he shoots free throws exceptionally well. I like that he presently is reluctant to throw up a three, and prefers to move in closer. We presently have enough guys on the team that will jack up the 3. Lamar provides a good balance to Garner and Banks in that respect.
