What a terrific 2nd half!!! It took Jordan Gregory awhile to wake up, but when he did, he was unstoppable. Nice to see the 3's falling for him, and FT's falling at a high rate for the team. Martin Breunig struggled more than normal, but his versatility is amazing. He defended the perimeter well. Him being used as a point forward was nice to see. I've been wondering when Travis would use his versatility a little more. This is a great sign, it means Travis is getting comfortable with what others can do in the paint on both ends. Using Breunig away from the basket is risky. It takes away a very good paint defender and rebounder.
This game in my opinion was our staff's coming out game, because of the new looks they used offensively and defensively. The strategic moves we saw this game were not that of a 1st year head coach. Those were absolutely brilliant moves, offensively and defensively. The team was struggling and "no fear" coaching moves brought the team back. I knew Travis would be a great coach, but just did not expect some of things he is doing this soon. He just earned some big time trust points from his team too. It is scary to think what more Travis can do as he gains experience. His basketball mind is amazing. We will be lucky to keep him more than 4 years.
He proved he can play "Chess" on the basketball court. That 2nd half coaching was A+. That is the kind of creativity, trust, and faith it takes to become a big time coach. I hope he keeps the confidence in pulling off strategic moves like those every game. Kudos to the players for executing on both ends so well.
Big Sky coaches will have their hands full preparing for the variety of offensive and defensive sets and mismatches the GRIZ have now shown. What we saw tonight from Breunig, is exactly why I think he has a chance in the NBA. He is a true SF at that level. Breunig needs to improve his 3 point shot, and ball handling, which I am sure he will. Breunig and Gregory are quite the duo. What about Gregory??? That boy is made of ice and stone. He is so confident, no matter how he is playing.
If anyone had told me this team would be a good rebounding and great defensive team this season, I would have not believed anyone. The defense makes it difficult to score 65 points and reminds me of Montgomery defenses in making open shots difficult to find. The offense is a work in progress. It is being helped by seeing the GRIZ use the versatility of Breunig now. Krslovic's improvement has been key to allow the GRIZ to do these things.
Great game GRIZ. Coach DeCuire, no matter what anyone says here, it won't do that coaching job justice. I am so impressed by the strategic moves you had the balls to make. As someone who pays attention to coaches just as much as players, you earned the highest of grades from me. GO GRIZ!!!!