Living out of town I had not seen JC play live since the Evansville game at home. Last weekend I was able to watch him carefully for two full games. I was amazed at his defensive intensity and effectiveness. I don't remember exactly what he was like pre-injury, but I can't help but think if anything he's more aggressive now on that side of the ball than ever before. His help-side defense was just just terrific, and he gets his hands in the passing lanes as well as anyone. I can't speak to his one-on-one D, but it certainly seemed adequate if not better. He was just a pleasure to watch on the defensive end both games in St. Louis. I don't think it would ever happen, but I'd love for him to challenge for Defensive Player of the Year next year.
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Crouch's Defense
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And one more thing about Crouch. He was utterly fearless driving the ball to the hoop. I don't remember that from him in previous years. I know he made more of an effort to get involved that way this year, but he was relentless in doing so in St. Louis. I realize a couple of those drives led to some crazy-looking shots, but I think his penetration was a key factor in the BU offense during the tourney, and opened up some outside stuff for him as well. As a result he shot 4-7, and 5-10 in the two games. He may not be the quickest guy, but it almost seems like he's on the verge of being able to take it in there any time he sets his mind to it. I think I was just a little taken back to see that from him coming off the knee injury. If he could polish that just a little more next year, he'll be the Valley's leading scorer.
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I don't know if I was just paying more attention lately (everytime he does anything funny with his bad knee, I flinch and envision the tape of Shaun Livingston/my own bad knee experiences), but he does seem to be way more aggressive lately. The boy keeps working and he'll be UNSTOPPABLE next year. And if he got a haircut ... well ...
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Originally posted by IheartBUI don't know if I was just paying more attention lately (everytime he does anything funny with his bad knee, I flinch and envision the tape of Shaun Livingston/my own bad knee experiences), but he does seem to be way more aggressive lately. The boy keeps working and he'll be UNSTOPPABLE next year. And if he got a haircut ... well ...Retire #14
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I think JCs defense is much better than most think. He is very good at shutting down the passing lanes and getting deflections, and helping from the weakside. He is a very smart player. The only time his defense lacks is when he gets beat on a drive, usually on the baseline. I may be wrong, but these seem to happen more often when he gets tired and needs a few minutes rest. I am not worried about his defense."Let's make some noise".
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