A much better performance by the Tigers and I can't help but think that starting Patterson and Quarterman made a difference. Patterson is a player and imo he is better than Gray and deserves to start. The team has performed best this season with Quarterman, Patterson, Hornsby, Martin and Mickey on the floor.
TQ deserves to start, for sure, and Patterson has earned it, too, but Gray is the better player overall. Gray is so inconsistent, though, he needs a fire lit under him. Patterson, I think, will be a more consistent entity, which will serve our needs well. I wasn't impressed with how Gray looked coming off of the bench - his demeanor looked more defeated. Patterson served as a better spark, but we'll see. Wouldn't be surprised if the plan is to play Patterson a few games as starter, and see how that pans out. Gray may be back in that role by tournament time, imo.
I don't know, I disagree that Gray is the better player. Maybe he'll show us something in the second half of the season but so far I have been unimpressed. Patterson, on the other hand, continues to improve and he seems to "get it" between his ears. He also has the physical tools to do the job. Maybe I expected too much from Gray because he led JUCO players in scoring last year. I hope you are right that he comes on in the second half....we need the depth.
I see that Mickey is projected late in the first round, but I am not seeing any mention of Martin in the draft.
Yeah, JM clearly needs another year. Mickey will only go up if he keeps playing at the level he has for the last 5 or so games, esp. with more exposure coming up against UK, SECT, and NCAAT (if we make it).
No doubt. I would love it if they both stuck around but I just don't see it happening with Mickey. I keep scratching my head with these guys leaving early who you never hear from anymore. You would think at some point these guys would start wising up a little and sticking around if they are not locks to go in the first round. Why not enjoy the college life for a little while longer? God knows there are days I wouldn't mind a re-do on the college years.
