Post Game Analysis: Syracuse defeats IUP: 83-65
By Josh Peelman
3.) The transfers are great, but a work in progress
Andrew White showed up and was flashy, just like we thought he’d be. He can score at will at times, but he is streaky. That can be both good and bad. When he misses, he can miss a lot. When he makes them, he makes a lot. Sound familiar? Malachi Richardson in the NCAA tournament, anyone?
His length posed problems for the opposing offense, causing several loose balls, strips, and steals. He needs to play smarter on defense though as he picked up several stupid fouls that made Jim Boeheim furious. He will have problems with Boeheim if he doesn’t pick up this new defense he’s learning on the fly.
John Gillon on the other hand made his case for the starting point guard job over incumbent Frank Howard. Though he struggled to create much offense for himself, he instead found lots of opportunities for his teammates. When he did he want to score though he did so with ease. One drive and layup earlier in the contest drew the applause of the crowd for how impressive it was.
He finished the game with 6 points, and 9 assists. He looked very comfortable running the offense and his passing at the top of key and while driving could be important to get shooters open for good shots this season. Both transfers have work to do on offense and getting to know their teammates strengths and weaknesses, but they’ll get there. After all, this is only the first time to get their feet wet. It’s an exhibition game and nothing more, yet.