The strategy for handling Gonzaga's big guys
December 2, 2010 8:30 AM
portlandillini, portland, oregon: Saw that Tisdale fouled out again in a big game. What's the winning strategy for handling Gonzaga's big guys inside?
Moderator: Portland- Pressuring the ball on the outside. And Bruce Weber said again yesterday the best way to play defense is before your man catches the ball. Last season Gonzaga pummeled the Illinois big men, leading one UI staffer to say, "What do they feed those guys?" But the Zags also had a playmaker at point guard (Matt Bouldin) that did a good job finding the big guys inside. These Zags don't have that.
Another something to watch: Gonzaga star Elias Harris (6-7, 245) hasn't been practicing due to an Achilles injury. He hasn't practiced since the Kansas State game, and he didn't play last night against Eastern Washington. It's clear Harris doesn't have the same bounce right now. That's an advantage for Illinois, which doesn't have anyone that can defend a healthy Harris.
Klee chat
Moderator: Portland- Pressuring the ball on the outside. And Bruce Weber said again yesterday the best way to play defense is before your man catches the ball. Last season Gonzaga pummeled the Illinois big men, leading one UI staffer to say, "What do they feed those guys?" But the Zags also had a playmaker at point guard (Matt Bouldin) that did a good job finding the big guys inside. These Zags don't have that.
Another something to watch: Gonzaga star Elias Harris (6-7, 245) hasn't been practicing due to an Achilles injury. He hasn't practiced since the Kansas State game, and he didn't play last night against Eastern Washington. It's clear Harris doesn't have the same bounce right now. That's an advantage for Illinois, which doesn't have anyone that can defend a healthy Harris.
Klee chat
Filed under: Gonzaga Bulldogs, Illini Basketball
