NC State’s Kevin Keatts Talks To Media Before Clemson

NC State head coach Kevin Keatts talked with the media today before their matchup against Clemson on Saturday. You can watch it here, or read a bulleted breakdown of what he had to say.

• Can’t say anymore about Markell Johnson than what has been released by the school. That is all the information the team has as well. Keatts has talked to Johnson. Says NC State acted on it as soon as they had knowledge.
• Our team has had to adjust. We are one guard down, and someone else has to step up.
• Braxton has been playing well at point guard. One of the leaders in the ACC in assists/turnovers. He’s a little older than a typical freshman. He’s been away from home for two years prior to now.
• Also very excited with Lavar Batts. He’s been aggressive on both sides of the ball. He’s sharing the ball and getting out in transition.
• Clemson is playing some of the best basketball they’ve played in recent years. They are on the verge of being a Top 25 team. They’ve done a good job over the years developing a system and a style. They make you work for every basket. They have more offensive freedom this year and are getting out in transition.
• I try not to focus on ACC play, as much as focusing on the next opponent. I think that can psych your team out.
• Malik Abu just had his best practice yet. He was making shots. He was dunking. He’s starting to get it. His timing is stating to come back.
• I’m confident of we can shoot like we did against Jacksonville we will go undefeated the rest of the year. They hit those shots in practice and I’ve been waiting for it to translate to a game.