As far as the game was concerned...
Minute breakdown:
Clark 28*- 4 points, 9 boards. Improved in every way from last year. Still needs a better first step to get around defenders.
Ekey 26*- 6 points (2/3 from 3), 1 board, 4 assists, 2 steals, 4 blocks. Might be coming for Jackie's freshman blocks record. Amazing elevation and quick leaper. Wouldn't be surprised to see him start every game he ever plays at ISU. HS teammate of Justin Clark.
Cousin 21*- 6 points, 3 assists. FAST. Similar mold to Lloyd Phillips which we will need.
Rubin 21*-8 points. Team leader. Bulked up. If we can get 5-8 a game from him that would be a huge bonus.
Mishler 21- 18 points, 2 boards. Nice to know we have a serviceable big guy if Jackie goes down. Won't wow anybody, but gets the job done. SIUe's bigs were bad.
Smith 21- 2 points, 3 boards, 3 steals. FAST. I know t posted about some of his shooting struggles in JuCo, but I don't think that will be a problem at ISU because he won't be asked to shoot the ball. Pass first PG.
Lewis 13- 10 and 6. Had 3 turnovers. Looks to have trimmed down a bit and seems faster without losing any of his strength. Coming off a foot injury.
Hill 12- 6 points, 2 boards, 2 assists. Battled sickness and injury in practice. Will be seeing a lot more minutes when healthy.
Blue 16- 14 points. Very fast even though his ankle was hurting him. He can get to the rim which is something we will need from a few of our guards.
Carmichael 13*- 18 and 5... His health will be the difference between a top 4 finish and a play-in game.
Upshaw 6- I don't see him making an impact this season. Seems to have the athletic tools, but cannot shoot the ball.
Coates 2- Good weekend for Richwoods!!!
Threloff 0- Looks like a redshirt candidate, but that could change if Jackie can't stay healthy.
*starter
Very good start to the season. I'm filled with skeptical optimism. The defense still needs work; slow feet, closing out, etc. but the talent is there for a surprise year this year and a very bright future in the next 2.
Any questions... Let 'em rip!