Texas Basketball: Key numbers from each player vs. Eastern Illinois
By Shane Black
Jericho Sims (PF) – 20 MIN: 5 PTS (2-3, 0-0), 5 REB, 1 STL
Jericho Sims, though one of the more talented guys on this team, may struggle to find a true role. Against Eastern Illinois, Sims did not get many offensive touches. When he did, Sims struggled to make anything happen on the block. His bread and butter this season will be using his leaping ability to secure offensive put-backs.
On the defensive end Sims was a force. He was the main guy that headlined the havoc press. His length proved to be a real problem for the Eastern Illinois guards. His top value for this team may be at the head of their full-court press.
Tuesday was a typical game we saw from Sims last year which is not a great sign regarding progression. Though, it was just one game.
Kamaka Hepa (PF) – 11 MIN: 6 PTS (2-3, 2-3), 3 REB
The freshman Alaska native played just 11 minutes on Tuesday but he played well and seemed to accomplish what Smart had in mind for him. Kamaka Hepa really impressed me in the pick-and-pop game. After setting a screen he was immediately in catch and shoot position with his hands up. This led to him knocking down two of three long balls.
On the defensive end of the floor many believed Hepa would be outmatched down low, however, on multiple possessions he walled up on the block and forced the opposition into passing it out or forcing up a tough shot. Granted, it was against Eastern Illinois, but it further proves Smart’s assessment that Hepa beefed up the most in the summer weights program.