Tigers’ offense needs addressing
Penny Hardaway gave the Tigers a “B” grade on execution following their win over Mississippi Valley State last week.
But he prefaced it with a few words of caution.
“When you play better teams, they’re going to make you execute the entire game,” he said. “You can’t have lapses or else they’re going to go on runs.”
True to Hardaway’s forecast, Memphis failed to execute enough plays properly to avoid another disappointing loss, this time to Auburn. It started when (with Memphis up 48-46 midway through the second half ) Boogie Ellis missed a jump shot that was being contested by two Auburn defenders with Malcolm Dandridge open in front of the basket. Ellis committed a turnover on the next Memphis possession, which Auburn converted into points. The next time down the floor Landers Nolley II missed a wide-open 3-point attempt. Then, Lester Quinones missed an uncontested 3-point try.
The repeated lack of execution kept Auburn in the game and has led to a mailbag full of pointed questions for Hardaway and the Tigers as they prepare to open AAC play against Tulane on Wednesday (8 p.m., ESPN2).
When is Penny going to start coaching offense? How long does Memphis give Penny?— @tomtigeriii
I believe the first part of this question is in reference to statements Hardaway made after Memphis returned from a 1-2 trip to South Dakota to open the season.
“We went from being an offensiveminded team, and really focusing on 50-50, (to) it’s 95% defense and 5% offense,” he said.
I have a suspicion the Tigers will spend the majority of this week’s practices paying closer attention to the offensive side of the ball – maybe even making some changes.
I’m guessing the second question is about Hardaway’s job security. Frankly, it’s my belief that his job is as safe as anyone’s in the country as long as he still wants it.
What’s the plan to improve the guard play? — @pcolinjr
Hardaway was asked about the point guard spot after the Auburn loss. In that game, Damion Baugh and Alex Lomax combined for 17 points, four assists and four turnovers. So, on paper, not a bad night from the one.
But, apart from acknowledging the obvious – “We’re just not strong in that area right now.” – he wasn’t overly specific.
“They just have to come together to be leaders,” Hardaway said. “They have the support. We’re giving it to them in practice. We’re showing them film. I know they can do it. But we have to get better at the guard spot, because we’re going to need them.”
That last part can be interpreted several different ways. Maybe he’s not ready to bail on either Baugh or Lomax just yet. But, maybe he is. With Baugh out against Mississippi Valley State last week, Memphis used Quinones and Jayden Hardaway more at point guard. Perhaps we’ll start to see more of them there going forward?
Commercial Appeal sports columnist Mark Giannotto said on this week’s Tiger Basketball Podcast he thinks it might be worth letting D.J. Jeffries run the point some. I doubt we see that very often (if at all), but it might be time for that kind of alternative approach.
Seriously, do you believe there is a NBA player on this roster? Would you draft anyone on this team? — Vaughn, via email
Yes and yes.
I believe if you put Jeffries in the right situation, he has plenty of potential. But I understand the reader’s point. Based on the reputations of the players on Memphis’ roster right now (and their recruiting rankings), most of them are underachieving and don’t seem to be on track to being an NBAcaliber player.
But, let me ask, was Jeremiah Martin on track for the NBA early in his sophomore or junior seasons?
Is Penny right? Is Deandre (Williams) the difference in this team right now? — @KTANKTJR
Multiple people I have spoken to about Deandre Williams’ value once he becomes eligible say he could give the Tigers a 2-3 win bump.
The thought is Williams wouldn’t struggle as much around the rim. That he would only elevate Moussa Cisse’s effectiveness. That his veteran presence would make a difference late in games like the one Memphis just lost to Auburn. That his energy and passion would rub off in a positive way on those around him.
We will find out soon enough. The thought among college basketball insiders is that once the Division I Council’s expected vote takes place (reportedly set for Wednesday), all transfers still awaiting clearance will become eligible immediately. Meaning, Williams would be eligible to play at Tulane.
Why does Penny sub so much? — @judee_moodee
Hardaway’s defensive philosophy dictates Memphis’ rapid-fire substitution patterns. He has said he has to rotate players at a higher rate because of the Tigers’ high-energy, intense defensive approach.