By: Braxton Fuller | WV Sports Chat | WV Sports Chat
MORGANTOWN, W.Va. – WVU wraps-up the non-conference schedule with a 9-4 record, losing 4 out of 5 vs power conference teams. In a couple of those losses, the Mountaineers blew double digit leads late in the game. Things will not got easier once Big 12 play starts, as WVU opens up conference play in Ames, Iowa against #3 Iowa State.
What can WVU do to pull off Big 12 wins?
- This is the obvious one. Find a consistent #2 scorer. Chance Moore does well at getting to the rim and the foul line. He struggles from mid-outside range though. Jasper Floyd, who should be the team leader due to experience in the system, has a very good shot whenever he decides to shoot it. Eaglestaff obviously has the potential to be the answer, he just can’t get anything to fall at a consistent pace.
- Defense. Statistically and analytically, the defense hasn’t been a problem. But they lack the ability to adapt or change things up to throw opponents out of sync. Personally, I’d like to see Ross Hodge develop a zone defense or a legit full court press/trap, to throw the opposing offense out of sync.
- More inside-out game with Lorient. WVUs best offense is whenever Obioaha is off the court and it seems the offense plays less inside-out without him. Lorient is an experienced player who makes solid passes. He also has the ability to score at all three levels, which makes him hard to defend in this kind of role. He needs to become more involved whenever the guards are struggling to score. And this is a great way to create mismatches with him touching the ball.
It’s my opinion that these three keys will go a long way in helping WVU rattle off some wins in the Big 12. Can they win enough to make the NCAA Tournament? That’s yet to be determined, but according to ESPN’s latest projections, they may have a chance.
Photo Credit: WVU Athletics
