Long Beach State Sports : Re: MBB Some Positive Signs Showing Up?

Good observations, and I commend you and Mike Montgomery for attending a game at the Thunderdump and supporting the Beach. Green shoots is a good analogy. I found myself enjoying watching the offensive movement, although from reading the Gaucho Loco message board, they say UCSB's defense is pretty bad, but nonetheless, the offensive identity is looking better.

I too think they should at least try some extended zone defense and see how it goes, I thought they played it a little bit last night but then they'd collapse to a more man to man d with switching up. Still allowing way too much penetration so a zone should limit that, and against any average or less 3 pts shooting team I'd do that.

SB has some talent, guarda Mahaney and Sensley, and forward Colin Smith impressed me. Their two headed center monster is pretty solid as well. Throw in seasoned vet Marvin McGhee and apparently some other good parts, they should be in the top half of the BW but probably underperform as usual. Another HC that is more of a recruiter, and over time he's proving he can bring in talent and coach them into a good record but that's it.

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From the last two games, are there some green shoots emerging?

Having watched the USD game and attended last nights game:

* Statistically, LB outperformed UCSB in every facet except free throws and the overtime. They outrebounded, had more points in the paint (surprisingly), took better care of the ball (A/T), and better contribution off the bench.
* Ball movement has really improved the last two games
* Defense is the Achilles heel. Pick up too many fouls. How about switching up and throwing some zone in?
* Last night had a thin front court. Leopoldo was dressed but seems to have a lower back or hip issue. Was working the foam roller pregame. Dallas wasn’t at the game….carryover from ankle (?) injury against USD. Petar played the entire game with exception of him fouling out in last minute of OT.
* DMX a showed up 8/10 with a block. Would be nice to see stronger hands. Shay started and contributed minutes. He’s not a stat stuffer, 2/2 but had two blocks
* Thought Acker managed the game well considering front court shortages last night. Defensive side just needs continued work and commitment
* Mike Montgomery was at the game sitting behind LB’s bench