There is no doubt that Hopkins is the best team at this time. Their seniors are playing at a game level that is several weeks ahead of all other CC teams. I believe that a couple of teams could challenge Hopkins during the later part of the season as they develop their offense/defensive game plans. It will be interesting to see how Hopkins fairs against #11 Mississippi College in a couple of weeks.
Yes, I am a Bear's fan, and the Bears will be the team to challenge Hopkins for the title. I have not seen or heard (audio game) the play of F&M and the Mules. However, if Stewart plays in the Spring, then the Mules could be there. I see McDaniel withering on the CC vine over time. They have no inside game, they are terribly outrebounded, and give up too many FTs due too their physical game plan which would cost them several games throughout the season.
I have seen most of the Bear's games, and the progress has been very encouraging and frustrating. However, this year could be Coach Small's best coaching achievement as head coach. The Bear's defense has always been tough, and will continue so. Their offense is a work in progress, and the first half against Swarthmore was very encouraging. The Bear's offense needs to do the following: (1) allow the offense to center around Will Furey for the inside/passing game, (2) develop/coach Shattuck into using his speed, penetration and jumping abilities toward the net in lieu of outside shooting, and (3) continued improvement in the play of Remy Cousart and John Noonan. Presently, Fabian needs to be more involved in the offense to support his role as a O/D rebounder. Furey, Shattuck and Fabian did a good job against Hopkins last year, and I see no reason why they cannot dominate Nawrocki and Griffin again. Hopkins may live or die from the 3 point shots from Valerio, Polster and Beggans. The Bears are the only team that can challenge Hopkins inside game.
Shattuck has the skills to be POY, but he needs to decide the type of player he wants to be this year. So far, his FG% is down from last year (55.3% vs 43.7%), FT% is down (86.4 vs 60.6%) and 3 PT% is down (37.7% vs 23.1%). While his scoring average is up from last year by 5 PPG, he is shooting 8 more FGA this year than last year. The early games were a display of Shattuck being a shooter, and that can spell disaster for the Bears. If Furey and Shattuck can feed off each other, then Fabian will improve his play greatly, and the young guards would not feel the pressure to make the outside shot. I admit it is a work in progress, and Coach Small must get them to practice, practice and practice it for them to believe in it. Otherwise, it could be a long and disappointing season. Soon, the Bears will play #14 Lawrence in Florida. I am anxious to see how they fare and respond to Coach Small.
These early games have been a feeling out/learning process for all teams except Hopkins. I believe that the Bears will be there for the CC championship game in either Baltimore or Collegeville.
GO BEARS GO
