There is no doubt in any SJU fans mind that this season was
a tough one to watch. When looking at this team there seemed to be a lack of
experience, skill, and confidence. This team struggled throughout the entire
season, making mistake after mistake. However, there were some bright spots
that prove this team has a future in the A-10 and may be extremely competitive
by the end of next season.
DeAndre Bembry
If you ask anyone who watches the A-10 who the best player
is, most would agree DeAndre. Even though Bembry played extremely well he did not
win A-10 Player of the Year this season. However, as a sophomore he showed much
maturity. DeAndre proved time after time that he is the best player not only on
the Hawks, but in the league as well. The only issue that Bembry had this
season is that he tried too hard, and he tried to do too much. This became most
apparent in A-10 tournament. Bembry forced too many shots and tried to do too
much defensively. DeAndre is a great player, and will play in the NBA, however
as of right now this team is not built around him. This team needs a strong
Point Guard and a pure shooter to make DeAndre reach his fullest potential.
Bembry’s ability will take this team extremely far in the near future, but as
of now it is a waiting game.
Jai Williams
Williams is clearly a player with the most upside on this
team, besides Bembry. Even though Jai didn’t not play much this season, every
time he was on the court he made an impact. The 6-9 Forward clearly understands
the game, and understands how to use his body to score. The main problem with
Jai was his conditioning, if he can keep himself in shape he will be a strong
presence underneath. Williams already has quick feet and the height needed to
be a strong center in the A-10. Jai Williams has proven that he will be a much
better presence in the middle then Javon. Look for Jai to get more minutes next
season.
James Demery and Isaiah
Miles
These two guys were packaged together because showed us some
flashes of brilliance throughout the season. However, they were not consistent
enough to bring success to the Hawks. If this team wants to become successful,
they must have production from these two guys. Miles has a very nice shot and
is strong on the inside. However, he needs to shoot better from the field.
Demery is a very good wing guard and gets to the rim. But, in some cases he
thinks he’s the entire team. These two players need to become more consistent
for success to be found on Hawk Hill.
When looking at this season, it was clear that it was lost
to start. However, we did get to observe great play from DeAndre. This team has
potential, and this team can get to the March Madness Tournament. Hawk fans
just need to wait, because by DeAndre’s senior year this team will be great.
-Brett
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