This past Monday I had the chance to check out some summer pick up games at the Dail Center that included some of the current players, as well as sharp shooter Scott Wood.

Who stood out?

Terry Henderson: 

What impressed me as I watched Terry was how smooth and comfortable he was with the ball in his hands. He looked more like a point guard instead of a shooting guard, but make no mistake about it he can fill it up. Not only can he get hot from distance as he showed in the pickup games but he is pretty good off the bounce. He should fit right in at the two position and give the Pack another excellent ball handler to flank Cat. I loved the intensity that Terry played with. This was a pretty insignificant summer pick up game but he made sure to use the time to improve himself. I am a firm believer that players are made in the summer and that summer pick up games are where confidence is gained.

Caleb and Cody: 

The Twins play the same no matter the time or place and that is at 100 percent. Both looked to be  improved in my opinion and noticeably thicker in their physic. Cody and Caleb played on the same team and showed great chemistry which is to be expected.  Both showed a great touch from the three point line. Cody was aggressive at finding the paint only to kick it out to Caleb for an open three. Both Cody and Caleb stepped up and pressured Scott Wood and competed. I am really looking forward to seeing them play extended minutes this season. Our defense could be elite with these two hawking opponents up and down the court!

Malik Abu: 

I am not going to temper my expectation for Malik this coming season, I truly believe he is going to be a big time player for the Red and White. As he played he looked improved physically and he was much more decisive in his moves. He was much more in control as he faced up to attack off the bounce and he was smoother in his back to the basket game. As I watched Abu I started to think of the potential he possesses and the positive body language he exudes. Abu has an infectious personality that lifts his teammates’ spirits which allows them to play through mistakes. This will be critical come next season. He should be a double double machine this coming season, he has all the tools to accomplish this task.

Some may think that this year’s team will not be anything of worth but I strongly disagree. I still believe that our team is comprised of multifaceted players who above all else will play hard. People may discount the fact that playing hard is a skill but once again I contend that it is in fact a skill, a valuable one at that. The players that will see the most floor time this season will make up for any lack in skill with their hustle and heart.