Texas Basketball: 5 thoughts after Las Vegas Invitational

3 of 6

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – NOVEMBER 22: Kerwin Roach II #12 of the Texas Longhorns dribbles against the North Carolina Tar Heels during the 2018 Continental Tire Las Vegas Invitational basketball tournament at the Orleans Arena on November 22, 2018 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Texas defeated North Carolina 92-89. (Photo by Sam Wasson/Getty Images) /

4. Kerwin Roach II is the go-to offensive guy

It’s hard to imagine where the offense for Texas basketball would come from if not for the return of senior shooting guard Kerwin Roach II to the Forty Acres for his last year of eligibility. Roach II is posting big numbers in his five games played so far this season. He’s posted double figures for scoring in each of the five games.

If not for Roach II sparking the scoring for the Horns, this offense would be among the most inept in the Big 12. Roach II is the most skilled volume scorer on the roster, and is helping a lot of the younger players develop in the process. Some of the younger players, especially the point guard, like freshman Courtney Ramey and sophomore Matt Coleman benefit from having Roach II back.

Roach II is averaging more than 18.0 points per game this season. He’s posting better scoring numbers than anyone the Horns had in the mix last season. Compared to last season’s roster, Roach II is also finding more of an opportunity after some key departures. One key departure that seems to be opening things up for him more is the Orlando Magic rookie center Mohamed Bamba.

The offensive presence Roach II showed in the first part of the regular season slate should show his value to NBA scouts. His mission this season was to come back and become the most well-rounded player before taking his talents to the next level. With a high offensive rating above 115 and the highest usage rate of his collegiate career, Roach II is doing what he set out to do in 2018-19.

Home/Texas Basketball