Illinitalk: "D"omination

Sunday, December 07, 2008

"D"omination

The Illini looked good at the United Center Saturday. Georgia certainly helped, with their season-high turnover mark and inability to score (which included the last 7 minitues of the game). But the Illini had D -- lots of it:

D for Demetri McCamey, the leading scorer for the day, who drove to the basket, hit threes, and dominated the early minutes of the game.
D for Defense -- one that got 13 steals and 3 blocks and held the Dawgs to 35% shooting.
D for Davis and tisDale. The Mikes each scored 14 points and Davis added to the highlight reel he's working on.
D for Dominique Keller, who came off the bench, nailed a couple of 3s in the second half when the Illini began running away with it for good. He was 3 for 4 behind the arc for the game.

This was a confidence-builder for the Illini, but Georgia clearly struggled all game. Part of the challenge could be attributed to the early start, but Dennis Felton looks to have a long season ahead of him.

And although the Illini have a lot to be happy with, the game tape will show plenty of room for improvement:

Passing: I still like it, but it looked a bit slower and was telegraphed too clearly against Georgia. They looked better earlier in the season, and they need to maintain and improve in this area to allow the motion to really shine.
Communication: Closely related to passing -- there were a few too many miscommunications that turned into turnovers. These guys play together well, and this should be an easy improvement.
Rebounding: Georgia won the battle of the boards, 34-26. This is another area to improve, especially before conference play begins. The Illini forwards don't have as much meat on their bones as many big men, but they've got to be able to gete in position and battle anyway.
Shooting when open: I love the extra pass, but shooters -- if you recieve that extra pass, shoot the ball quick. That's your job. You don't need to make the thrid or fourth extra pass if you are open already.

This team is starting to answer questions about who they are, but much remains to be seen. Should be an interesting season...

Go Illini!

Labels: Demetri McCamey, Dominique Keller, Illini basketball, Mike Davis, Mike Tisdale

# posted by Alma Mater : 12:47 PM

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Sunday, December 07, 2008

"D"omination

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