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Love is a unique p_layer_. He is very skilled, he does things like pass the ball well, and is comfortable with the ball in his hands. However, he is very slow, and not agile. He is a good rebounder because he gets position and is big, but he cannot quickly get off his feet to get the board. This was evident when Memphis p_layer_s continually tipped the ball before it got to Love. They got a couple of over the back calls, and he still controlled most of them anyway, but this doesn't translate well to the next level. I don't think he attempted to post up with his back to the basket more than three times tonight. He also is not quick enough to have a complete facing the basket game. It is nice to see a premier p_layer_ so willing to set screens, and that is probably the most impressive thing he does, but I couldn't help but notice that when he sets screens, he almost always either has his feet moving or leans into it badly. He doesn't get it called, though.
Derrick Rose is unreal. He is a more athletic Baron Davis.
Douglas-Roberts is just a basketball p_layer_. He knows how to get the ball in the hole, and does it well.
Dorsey reminds me of Ben Wallace from about 4 years ago. He is long, active, and hustles his butt off. He also doesn't have much of an offensive game, and the dribble drive motion fits him perfectly.
Everyone talks about free throws, or the dribble drive motion with Memphis, but the key to that team is their defense. They are all so long and athletic, and quick, and more importantly, have bought into what they do on that end.
Collison is the next Leandro Barbosa, and Nantz made a good call when he said that Westbrook would fit right in with Memphis.
UCLA is good, obviously, but I think this Memphis team is very underrated. They have one loss on the year, are athletic as hell at every spot, and despite all that, the most common bracket had them losing to Texas in the second weekend.
The second game should be a much better match up and game. I am anxious to see Memphis play either of them Monday night.
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