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Basketball

Gators Poised for Breakout Season: Defensive Strides and Frontcourt Depth Fuel Optimism

2024-10-31

As the University of Florida Gators men's basketball team prepares to kick off their highly anticipated season, head coach Todd Golden shared his insights on the team's progress, health, and the tragic passing of former USF coach Amir Abdur-Rahim. With the Gators ranked 21st in the Preseason AP Top-25, Golden expressed confidence in his squad's readiness, highlighting their improved defensive efforts and the depth they've cultivated.

Unlocking the Gators' Potential: A Preseason Outlook

Preseason Camp Reflections: A Team on the Rise

Coach Golden is pleased with the team's progress during the preseason, noting that they've had a "good training camp" and the players have "done a really good job of working collectively towards being ready to go for the beginning of the year." While the first scrimmage against Charleston revealed some areas needing improvement, the subsequent scrimmage against FIU showcased a more complete and physical team, with better rebounding and a stronger defensive presence. Golden believes the Gators are "tracking" in the right direction, but acknowledges that the true test will come once the regular season begins.

Rebounding Resurgence: Addressing a Key Weakness

One area of particular focus for the Gators has been their rebounding, which was a point of emphasis following the initial scrimmage. Golden noted a "marked improvement" in the team's rebounding performance against Charleston, crediting the return of Alex Condon and the added depth in the frontcourt as key factors. The head coach was pleased to see the guards also contributing more effectively on the glass, a testament to the team's collective effort in addressing this crucial aspect of the game.

Injury Report: Gators Entering the Season Healthy

Regarding the team's health, Golden expressed optimism, stating that as of now, "we'll have everybody lined up and ready to go for next week." While the end of training camp typically brings some minor bumps and bruises, the Gators appear to be in good shape heading into the season opener against South Florida.

Honoring a Fallen Colleague: Remembering Amir Abdur-Rahim

The passing of former USF head coach Amir Abdur-Rahim has deeply impacted the Gators' program, as many of the players and staff members had personal connections with him. Golden acknowledged the emotional toll on the team, as Abdur-Rahim had recruited several of the Gators' current players and had a close relationship with the coaching staff. The Gators are working to plan a meaningful tribute to honor Abdur-Rahim's memory before the game against USF, as they express their condolences to the USF program and Abdur-Rahim's family.

Frontcourt Depth: Condon's Return Bolsters the Gators

The return of Alex Condon to the lineup has been a significant boost for the Gators, as evidenced by his performance in the Charleston scrimmage. Golden praised Condon's energy and impact, noting that his presence, along with the contributions of Rueben, Sam, and Tommy, has provided valuable depth in the frontcourt. The head coach is confident that Condon will be ready to contribute on Monday night against USF.

Defensive Emphasis: Laying the Groundwork for Success

Improving the team's defensive prowess has been a major focus for the Gators during the preseason. Coach Golden highlighted the extensive time spent on defensive drills and preparation, led by assistant coach Andrzejek. The goal is to transform the Gators into a top-40 defensive team, a significant jump from their previous ranking in the 90s on KenPom. While the team has shown progress in this area, Golden is eager to see how they perform in a regular-season game setting.

Offensive Firepower: Maintaining Momentum

Offensively, the Gators aim to build upon the success they experienced last season, while simultaneously elevating their defensive capabilities. Golden emphasized the importance of not sacrificing the team's offensive growth while striving to become a more formidable defensive unit. The head coach believes that if the Gators can achieve their defensive goals, it will provide a solid foundation for their overall success this season.

Perimeter Prowess: Sharing the Scoring Load

The Gators' perimeter players, including Walter, Will, Alijah, and Denzel, have demonstrated their ability to take over games and provide a potent scoring punch. Golden praised their unselfish play and the team's ability to take advantage of favorable matchups, allowing different players to shine on any given night. The head coach is confident that this depth and versatility in the backcourt will be a key factor in the Gators' success this season.

Klavzar's Eligibility: A Frustrating Situation

The eligibility status of freshman guard Urban Klavzar remains uncertain, and Golden expressed his frustration with the situation. While the team is working to resolve the issue, the head coach believes Klavzar deserves the opportunity to play college basketball, given his academic achievements and the lack of any apparent disadvantage to others. Golden remains hopeful that a resolution will be reached in the coming days, allowing Klavzar to join the Gators on the court.

Scholarship Expansion: A Double-Edged Sword

The potential expansion of scholarships from 13 to 15 has presented a complex challenge for the Gators. While Golden acknowledges the potential benefits, he is concerned about the potential elimination of walk-on opportunities, which he believes is detrimental to the sport. The head coach emphasizes the importance of finding a solution that preserves the valuable contributions of walk-on players and ensures the overall improvement of college basketball programs.

Depth and Roster Development: A Promising Outlook

Despite the scholarship expansion challenges, Golden is generally pleased with the depth and development of the Gators' roster. He highlighted the growth of players like Kajus and the potential of freshman Isaiah Brown to contribute if needed. The head coach believes the team's frontcourt depth, in particular, is a strength heading into the season, though he acknowledges the importance of maintaining health and avoiding any setbacks.

Walter Clayton's Preseason Accolades: Embracing the Spotlight

Regarding the preseason recognition received by Walter Clayton, including his selection to the Naismith Trophy watch list, Golden believes the player has handled the attention with confidence and maturity. The head coach emphasizes that while the individual accolades are appreciated, the team's success will be the primary driver for Clayton and the other Gators to continue receiving such recognition throughout the season.

As the 2024-25 Big 12 women's basketball season tips off, a new era of college sports begins, marked by transfers, new rivalries, and high expectations. With the conference's expansion bringing in four new programs – Arizona State, Arizona, Utah, and BYU – the level of competition has never been higher. The revamped Big 12 looks to grow in more ways than just adding schools, with improved ratings, engagement, and international experiences all on the checklist for commissioner Brett Yormack.

Elevating the Big 12 to New Heights

Cementing Domestic Dominance and Reaching Global Aspirations

Yormack has big aspirations for the expanding conference, which now features 18 teams spread across 10 different states. "I want to cement our position domestically, but I have aspirations to go international and global," Yormack said at Big 12 Media Day earlier this month. "I think basketball can help us do that." The conference's mentality has shifted as it now stands as one of the most powerful conferences in the college landscape, fielding 25 total sports.

Driving Increased Viewership and Preseason Hype

The conference's growth is reflected in its viewership and preseason rankings. "Our ratings were up 111% last year, we're gonna see that trend continue this year," Yormack said. "Four of our teams were in the top 16 this year in preseason AP polls." Yormack's hardnose mentality and innovative approach have been instrumental in driving the Big 12's brand expansion.

Embracing the Underdog Mentality and Calculated Risks

"I've always been the underdog, I like having that grind mentality," Yormack shared. "We're a mature startup, it gives us a chance to be a little more innovative, take calculated risks, and disrupt a little bit. Just have a lot of energy about what we do."

Arizona State's Renewed Optimism and Roster Transformation

As one of the four new teams in the conference, Arizona State approached the Big 12 Media Day with renewed optimism. Coach Natasha Adair, junior guard Jalyn Brown, graduate student guard Tyi Skinner, and junior guard Kennedy Brasham talked about the vibes around this year's team and the expectations for the season, which begins Monday when the Sun Devils host the Jacksonville State Gamecocks.

Building a Healthy, Cohesive Team Environment

"This is a group that really loves one another, a group that works hard, we spent a lot of time together in the offseason," Adair said. "Of course, we're going to compete, we're going to be relentless, but we're going to love one another and really care about each other." With the addition of new players through the transfer portal and players like Skinner returning from an injury that sidelined her for an entire season, the Sun Devils finally feel like they have a healthy and capable team.

Embracing the Hunger to Win and Compete in the Big 12

Skinner and Brown will be one of the strongest duos in the new and improved Big 12 this season. "Part of why I came here is because Tyi wanted to team up," Brown said. "We're very determined players who look out for our teammates, so just for us to be out on the court against the same opponent with the same goal is gonna be scary." The Sun Devils are coming into the season with a desire to win and make their mark in the conference.

Alabama basketball forward Jarin Stevenson was NBA bound after a historic Final Four run with the Crimson Tide in the spring. However, the sophomore has decided to forgo his plans of declaring for the NBA draft and return to Tuscaloosa for another season, driven by the chance to win the program's first national championship.

Staying Put to Reach New Heights

Prioritizing Team Success Over Individual Aspirations

Stevenson, a native of Chapel Hill, North Carolina, had a promising future in the NBA after a standout sophomore campaign. However, the talented forward saw something special brewing in Tuscaloosa and decided to put his professional dreams on hold. "I saw that we had a good team here at Alabama," Stevenson explained during the first media availability of the 2024-25 season. "And, of course, the chance at the program's first national championship."Stevenson's decision to stay was not an easy one, but he believes it will ultimately pay dividends for both his individual development and the team's championship aspirations. "It's always been a goal for me," he said, referring to the Crimson Tide's quest for a national title. Stevenson's teammate and SEC Preseason Player of the Year, Mark Sears, shared a similar sentiment, opting to forgo the NBA draft alongside Stevenson in May.

Honing His Craft Under Oats' Tutelage

Stevenson, who comes from a basketball pedigree with his parents both having played the sport professionally, believes he can still "get a lot better" at Alabama. He praised head coach Nate Oats and assistant Ryan Pannone, crediting them for his continued growth and development."I feel like just going through another year here, I can learn a lot and become stronger and different things like that," Stevenson said. As a freshman, he showcased his potential, averaging 5.3 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 0.4 assists per game, while also recording six double-doubles and five starts during conference play.Stevenson's breakout moment came in Alabama's Elite Eight win over Clemson, where he scored a season-high 19 points, highlighted by a season-best five 3-pointers. Now, with a full season of experience under his belt and the opportunity to take on a larger role, the 6-foot-11, 215-pounder is poised to take his game to new heights.

Preseason Glimpse of Stevenson's Expanded Role

Stevenson has already seen increased playing time in the preseason, demonstrating his versatility and growth. In Alabama's exhibition game against Memphis, he recorded 11 points, three rebounds, and two blocks. In the team's first preseason exhibition against Wake Forest, Stevenson made the starting rotation and posted 10 points, six rebounds, and a block in 25 minutes.These early performances suggest that Stevenson's decision to stay at Alabama will pay dividends, as he is expected to handle a more significant load this season. His five-star rating out of high school at Seaforth and accolades like the 2023 Gatorade Player of the Year for the Tar Heel State indicate that he has the potential to continue his upward trajectory and lead the Crimson Tide to new heights.