I think he needs to work on getting into the paint a time or two each game. Layups and 6-8 footers are much easier to make. And we know he has that ability. Once he has a little confidence, the 3-point bombs will start to fall again.
I don't get why he gets higher praise over Kofi - head to head last year Kofi came out on top then too.
Or when Monte passes up the open three to hit ayo on a cut to get him.a nice 8-10 foot shot. Senior move
Andy Kaufman?Quick trivia question. Last Illini to have back to back 30 pt games? Hints; Late 90s, Kruger was the coach and I played with this guy all the time at IMPE.
Kofi only had 5 points in first half. Though I do think he had 6 or so rebounds.
Thinking that Curbelo might have a little Aaron Craft in his game. Opposing teams are going to learn to hate him (like I did Craft.)
Miller is OK, just had an off day. He has the open 3 confidence we need off the tip to minimize the slow starts we have had. Curbelo "God love him" is amazing, and has to be very tough to coach. His skill level is off the charts , but is not is high school any more. I think Underwood has done a great job of not "ripping his butt", and letting the game come to him. Ayo is a flat out stud late game, and is going to be missed when he goes pro. Kofi came to the right place to develop and is doing very well. Georgi, Demonte, & Trent are great upper classmen doing their jobs to win. This is a time to sit back and enjoy Illini basketball, with a lump in your throat.
The difference will be multiple millions I believe.
I would start Grand, not because I think he playing great but he significantly could help against the Ron Harper’s of the BIG. I think Curbello coming off the bench is fine (he plays starter minutes anyways). His defense is improving the tip off the backboard was huge.
Unfortunately Miller has had 9 off games. Other than the first patsy he really looks lost? See my previous post, he really needs to come off the bench with Curbello. He would see some easy shots under that scenario and that could help get him going.
Kofi actually made a head fake today, then went up an scored.
He'll (Miller) be ok too. He is just freshman too. We all want him to find his role this year. He was the man, and now has to find is place. If he can be a triple treat, he will be a great shooter. He has big shoes to fill for Ayo next year, and likely will disappoint a little. 2 years from now IMO, he will be our go to guy.
Careful, lot of people thought I was nuts when I suggested starting Grandison in the Penn State pregame thread. And I agree Miller and Curbelo aren’t really in competition for starting. It is Trent and Andre, which is one reason why I don’t think we’ll see Curbelo starting anytime soon. He played 27 minutes against PSU and 30 this game, so he’s getting his minutes. I also think BU might like him off the bench for rotation reasons and setting things up for the last 6-8 minutes of half and game.
How the times have changed.
