Syracuse Basketball: Blueprint on Louisville, Jordan Nwora struggles

2. According to the metrics, Jordan Nwora is the only double-digit scorer on the team this year. What makes him so special? What are his strengths and weaknesses?

"“Nwora, in my opinion, is the best pure scorer at Louisville since Russ Smith. He was a preseason first-team All-American and preseason player of the year and has lived up to the billing so far. What makes Nwora so special is his versatility and ability to score in a hurry. He is 6-foot-8 and plays at the three and four spots, so he becomes a match-up nightmare in a number of scenarios. If he is being guarded by a player lesser in stature, he can shoot over the top, and if he switches off on a slower four or opposing big, he has a solid first step and finishes well at the basket. His release is extremely quick, so he is a nightmare to prepare for in catch-and-shoot situations, particularly if he knocks down a look early. He also has developed an arsenal of crossovers and stepbacks that help him create enough space to get off a shot. Prior to last week, Nwora was shooting 45 percent from beyond the arc and was averaging a touch over 19 points per game. He is also second-leading rebounder and, when he wants to be, he is terrific defensively. But, again, “when he wants to be” is the key here. That’s situational. So when you discuss Nwora’s weaknesses, everything really starts and ends with his mental toughness and ability to focus and do his part. He said after a recent win that he can go for 20 points with ease on any given night, and he proved as much from the beginning of this season. It’s more a matter of Nwora really wanting to do all of the little things. When Nwora is on, he is the most dynamic player in the country. I truly believe that. He went for 37 at Boston College two weeks ago, and when he gets hot, he is a terror to defend. It’s when things go south for Louisville that there are issues. A portion of the fan base is skeptical of his attitude and body language, and perhaps they have a case. However, more times than not, he is the lifeblood of Louisville’s offense and one of their timeliest playmakers on the roster. 90 percent of the time, Nwora is incredible to watch. It’s just that 10 percent that we are all hoping Louisville can learn to play through and still find ways to win.”"