big SM

[BU ICEMAN]

I think Sam has done a pretty darn good job so far this year. He seems to improve with each game, which is mostly what should be expected of a freshman.

However, I think it's fair to say that many of us would agree that if we knew at the beginning that SM was going (actually, forced) to be playing 30 mins a game, we would be really concerned about the state of the team. I don't think it was in the cards for him to be getting as many minutes this fast.

[Beninator]

However, I think it's fair to say that many of us would agree that if we knew at the beginning that SM was going (actually, forced) to be playing 30 mins a game, we would be really concerned about the state of the team. I don't think it was in the cards for him to be getting as many minutes this fast.

Very true, but at least we know now that for the next three years, we have a guard that we can rely on who has significant game experience and has done well.

[SFP]

I'm willing to eat some crow! I thought if he avg. 5 pts, 2-3 assists with 6 minutes of play a game it would have been a good year for him. SM has exceeded my expectation. I wonder though how much playing time he would have had with a healty DR. Now even when DR comes back he should be playing big minutes.

I hope AW can feed off some that energy SM brings. Next year looks pretty good for our back court. SM - 1, AW - 2, TW - 3, RA - 4, ?? - 5.

[TNel]

I'm willing to eat some crow! I thought if he avg. 5 pts, 2-3 assists with 6 minutes of play a game it would have been a good year for him. SM has exceeded my expectation. I wonder though how much playing time he would have had with a healty DR. Now even when DR comes back he should be playing big minutes.

I hope AW can feed off some that energy SM brings. Next year looks pretty good for our back court. SM - 1, AW - 2, TW - 3, RA - 4, ?? - 5.

#5? Does Frankie Sylvester have any eligibility left?

[BradleyBrave]

All offseason we talked about looking for the next 'Will Franklin' - The guy that had ice water in his veins, who had the b@lls to take 'the shot' and make 'the shot', who could play the 1 or the 2, who isn't afraid anything, etc. Well, that guy is Sam. I said last year I thought he reminded me of Will Franklin, and he does even more today. He's a leader on a team that sorely needs one. Unfortunately, usually a team that has a true freshman as the true leader isn't a very good one.

[Da Coach]

#5? Does Frankie Sylvester have any eligibility left?

Frankie is now 58 years old, and his eligibility was all gone in 1971.

[Double D]

All offseason we talked about looking for the next 'Will Franklin' - The guy that had ice water in his veins, who had the b@lls to take 'the shot' and make 'the shot', who could play the 1 or the 2, who isn't afraid anything, etc. Well, that guy is Sam. I said last year I thought he reminded me of Will Franklin, and he does even more today. He's a leader on a team that sorely needs one. Unfortunately, usually a team that has a true freshman as the true leader isn't a very good one.

I think you are right BB. Sam's offense is getting very close to where it needs to be replace someone like Will F on the perimeter. His "on the ball" defense, however has a ways to go. Not to take anything away from his efforts.

[PTownHawkeye]

This thread is great because it is focusing on one of the most positive aspects about this team this season. I'm excited about what's to come from Sam this year and over the course of his next three years. Ruffin's injury may be a blessing in disguise because of the exposure Sam and AW are getting.

Makes me wonder...when was the last time BU had such a good freshman-sophomre combo? Deon Jackson (soph)and Anthony Parker (frosh) is the only example I can think of...

[thefish7]

I just wanted to add my praise in here. Sam M is doing a great job in this tough situation.

[Grassman]

This thread is great because it is focusing on one of the most positive aspects about this team this season. I'm excited about what's to come from Sam this year and over the course of his next three years. Ruffin's injury may be a blessing in disguise because of the exposure Sam and AW are getting.

Makes me wonder...when was the last time BU had such a good freshman-sophomre combo? Deon Jackson (soph)and Anthony Parker (frosh) is the only example I can think of...

Danny Granger had an upside as a freshman.

[Scouter]

Danny Granger had an upside as a freshman.

How dare you mention that name here!!!

[basketball nut]

Just like to point out I said he'd be a major contributor this year and was fairly well attacked. I had questions about everyone but SM. Sorry for saying I told you so, but I just wanted to give all the Pre-Season and Early Season SM-Haters who said he shouldn't play this season, wouldn't turn into anything for 2-3 years, or the people who even a few games in said he was getting too much time. Pure and simple the kid's a gamer, his stat line may not always be amazing(though lately it's been pretty darn nice), but he does all the intangible things you need a guy to do. And several people questioned me when I said at some point he'd be an All-MVC'er...

That All MVC'er thing may come quicker then anticipated as if he continues he may very well get votes this year and make 2nd or 3rd (or did they stop third team?) team this year.