Notebook: Oklahoma State-UMKC

This is a guest basketball post from Ben Nemecek who mercifully watched Oklahoma State beat UMKC on Tuesday. You can read his five thoughts here. 

• As per usual, the coverage of an Oklahoma State basketball game begins after tipoff. I have yet to understand why TV networks refuse to allow more time between games.

• Not surprising that Tyree Griffin is tasked with guarding reigning WAC POY Martez Harrison. Griffin gets after it with continual pressure and forces tough shots.

• Cowboys are much more productive against the zone when Jawun Evans is focused on penetrating and forcing help. Although he turns it over some, the ball movement is much better when he initiates the drive and kick.

• The first half was not particularly pretty. The Cowboys and ‘Roos combined to shoot 16 percent from deep, and the Pokes turned the ball over 7 times. On the flip side, the defense was stellar, and the reigning WAC Player of the Year Martez Harrison was held to one point.

• UMKC HC Kareem Richardson shares similar philosophies with Ford & Co. Both having played/coached under Rick Pitino and they employ full court pressure that focuses on creating turnovers and using fast breaks to score points.

• Anthony Allen was able to have an impact on this game, blocking six shots and altering many more.

• As Bryndon Manzer mentioned on the telecast, the Pokes miss Soloman at the high post in the zone. Not only can he knock down the 15-18 foot jumper, but he can also attack the rim or kick out to shooters in the corners.

• I love when Evans and Griffin are on the floor simultaneously. Either player can break the press and initiate the offense, and both are scoring threats with the basketball. Also allows Newberry the chance to catch a breather with Forte still sidelined.

• If Anthony Allen can continue to develop and improve his offensive game down low, he will be able to earn many more opportunities once Big 12 play begins.

• Jawun seemed to force a few passes into tight windows during the game. He has great vision and is a creative passer, but seemed to be trying to force a few tonight. However, this was just his 12th game in an Oklahoma State uniform.