Post-scrimmage thoughts - Oct. 20

A few words from Alumni Hall following the men's basketball intrasquad scrimmage this evening:

• Nice work today from back-up point guard Jamal Turner, who did an exceptional job defensively on senior Jon Han. Granted, this is only a preseason scrimmage. But it's nice to see some strides from a youngster at a senior-laden position. Cooley's emphasis on team defense suggests that if Turner can be a bench defensive sub option, he could be in line for PT early on.
• Player who turned my head: Ryan Olander. Not only did this kid show some ability covering a more polished, more veteran forward in Greg Nero, but he even showed some decent range from the field. Someone to keep an eye on.
• Warren Edney and Yorel Hawkins were quiet for the majority of the night, but the small forward position battle is easily the most intriguing early on. These two are far too similar to both receive extended playing time, so it may be all-or-nothing type situation. Stay tuned.
• Brandon Davis did not take part in the scrimmage, as he continue to nurse an off-season knee injury.
  
• Head coach Ed Cooley was as hands off as he possibly could be, but couldn't help himself at times in the game. At one point in the first half - after moving his seat at varying spots at Alumni all throughout the game - Cooley yelled out, "Ball pressure!" to the red team. Once a coach, always a coach.
• I'd call it a mediocre turnout mostly full of alumnus and local fans. Maybe 100 or so.
  
• To some, it may have been a disappointment that the University discontinued its 'Midnight Madness', but the whole thing is mostly a charrade. Cooley opted for a smarter, more focused start to the season: longer practice sessions instead of an over-the-top slam dunk show in front of a few students. Can't say I blame him.
• My favorite observation: "Our Time" enscripted on the back of the practice jerseys. Motivation, anyone?