ACC Basketball Action Saturday 1/16: Notre Dame @ Duke, Syracuse @ Wake Forest

Here are player ratings and recap for two games from this past weekend. The games featured Notre Dame and Duke in an uptempo shootout, and Syracuse trying to continue their climb after falling 0-4 in the ACC.

Tomorrow I'll have recaps for tonight's Big Monday matchup between Syracuse and Duke, and yesterdays Virginia @ Florida State game.

Notre Dame 95 @ #9 Duke 91

Notre Dame Fighting Irish

F Zach Auguste: 6.5

Auguste has made me look a little silly this year. I named him to my preseason First Team All-ACC team. He has become a much better rebounder this season, but hasn't taken the step forward offensively that I predicted. I believe I may have said he could average nearly 20 ppg this season. Sigh. Auguste struggled finishing underneath the basket (props to Plumlee). However, he was exceptional grabbing rebounds. He ended the game with 14. Auguste also grabbed an offensive rebound in the final seconds of the game following Demetrius Jackson's missed free throw, and proceeded to make both of his free throws to ice the game. Auguste finished the game with nine points.

F Matt Ryan: 4.5

Ryan started in place of Colson, but still only played 17 minutes, and I would like to assume Colson will go back to starting. Ryan failed to make a big impact on the game. He only took one shot, and missed it. He sat for the majority of the game, because Colson had an exceptional game.

F VJ Beachem: 3.5

Beachem was in foul trouble for most of the game. So, he too only played 17 minutes. Beachem averages 11 ppg, and has shot 44% from 3pt on the season. However, he was just one for three with no made three pointers in this game, scoring two points.

G Steve Vasturia: 8.5

Vasturia had a great game. He shot 8-16, and made four of six shots from 3pt range. He finished with 22 points. Vasturia not only shot well from beyond the arc, but also excelled driving to the basket, and finishing at the rim. Vasturia also finished the game with six rebounds, and four assists.

G Demetrius Johnson: 8.5

Despite shooting 39% from outside for the season, Jackson failed to make either of his 3pt attempts this game. He did however, shoot 10-14 from inside the arc, and had no difficulty driving to the rim all game. Jackson showed off an incredible ability to finish at the basket, even with Plumlee defending the basket, and doing so with either hand. Jackson scored 24 points total. He also had four assists. Jackson also had one of most amazing highlights of the game when he blocked seven foot Marshall Plumlee.

F Bonzie Colson: 10

Colson came off the bench when VJ Beachem initially got into foul trouble; he proceeded to absolutely dominate Duke on the offensive end. Colson looked like a star scorer, rather than a player who only averages 12 ppg. Colson was able to score in wide variety of ways. He started early by hitting mid range jumpers, used his strength to get inside, backed down Brandon Ingram from the post, drove baseline to the rim, scored after grabbing offensive rebounds, and even hitting a pair of three point shots. Colson finished the game shooting 12-19, 2-3 from beyond the arc, and 5-5 from the free throw line, scoring a combined 31 points. Colson also grabbed 11 rebounds, eight of which came on the offensive end.

G Rex Pflueger: 6

Pflueger stepped up this game, while Beachem had to be benched due to fouls. He played surprisingly well against Duke's stellar backcourt. Pflueger shot two of five, and scored seven points. He also dished a couple of assists. Pflueger also played surprisingly adequate defense, and his only rebound came in the final minutes of the game to give Notre Dame possession when Duke could have come back.

Team Rating: 7.33

This was the first time I have watched Notre Dame all season. Their offense performed the way I expected. Although, I think Zach Auguste is capable of being much more productive. However, I was impressed to see Notre Dame was the tougher, more physical team, and also won on the offensive rebounds, and during loose ball scrambles. This Notre Dame team is better than their record suggests, and they should continue to prove that moving forward.

Duke Blue Devils

C Marshall Plumlee: 6.5

Plumlee has had some explosive games this season, dominating the middle on defense, and getting a lot of easy looks on offense. However, this game is about what I typically expect from Plumlee: 8pt on 4-6 shooting, 9 rebounds, and a pair of blocks. He is proving to be one of the most productive centers in the ACC, and a consistent performer for Duke.

F Brandon Ingram: 8.5

Ingram played the best game I've seen him play since joining the Blue Devils this season. He created a mismatch against whoever Notre Dame sent out to guard him. He had a height advantage over Bonzie Colson, and shot over him. He had an athletic advantage over any of Notre Dame's remaining players, and took the ball to the paint with ease. Ingram showed a great ability to both finish at the rim, and hit a majority of his jump shots. He finished the game 7-14 from the field, and four for seven from 3pt range, scoring 25 points. Ingram struggled defensively against Bonzie Colson, who found it easy to both back Ingram down, and drive on him. Ingram picked up four fouls with more than 17 minutes still remaining in the game, and proceeded to sit for the next six minutes of the second half. Ingram did a great job upon returning to the game, and never picked up his fifth foul. Ingram does have some tools defensively due to his length and athleticism. He blocked three shots. He could be a really good defender once he puts on some more weight.

G Luke Kennard: 9

This was also the best I have seen Luke Kennard. Kennard has struggle at times this year to find his shooting stroke, especially from 3pt range. He stepped up on offense this game, and had the most productive game of his career. Kennard shot 10-15, and four of six from beyond the arc, for 30 points. He was just as effective shooting from mid range as he was from beyond the arc. Kennard is not a great defender though, and he typically defended Notre Dame's fifth scoring option (this game Beachem, Ryan, or Pfleuger).

G Grayson Allen: 7

Grayson quietly scored 18 points. He shot 5-11 from the field, and made two of his six 3pt attempts. The sophomore is really good driving to the basket, and drawing fouls. He added six points from the charity stripe. Allen also does well to distribute the ball after penetrating (often finding Plumlee after drawing the defender). He had six assists, and only one turnover this game. Allen however, is not a very good perimeter defender, and struggled especially against Steve Vasturia.

G Matt Jones: 5.5

Matt Jones has had to adapt to playing with emerging underclassman Luke Kennard and Grayson Allen. He now appears to be the closest thing Duke has to a point guard on their starting lineup. Jones is often the forgotten man on Duke's team, but he has scored double digit points in 13 of the team's 18 games. This game, he scored under 10 points though. Jones shot 3-8, making a couple of three pointers. He finished the game with 8 points in the game. He also had three assists.

G Derryck Thornton: 4

Thornton only played 14 minutes this game. His role has shrunk due to Kennard's emergence, and need for more minutes. Thornton didn't score this game, but had a pair of assists. He struggled on defense against both Demetrius Jackson and Rex Pflueger.

F Sean Obi: N/A

Did not play enough to qualify.

F Chase Jeter: N/A

Did not play enough to qualify.

Team Rating: 7.00

Duke has now lost their last two games, to Clemson, and now Notre Dame. Their offense rivals the best teams in all of college basketball when Ingram, Kennard, and Allen are on. However, their perimeter defense is subpar, and they really needed Amile Jefferson in this game. Notre Dame out-hustled Duke, and won the battle of the boards. One last note, does anyone remember when Chase Jeter was a top-ten recruit? That was three months ago.

Syracuse 83 @ Wake Forest 55

Syracuse Orange

C DaJuan Coleman: 6

Coleman had a lot of success in the first half. However, he picked up his fourth foul early in the second half, and did not return to the game. He made all three of his field goal attempts for six points. He added three rebounds, and two blocks. Coleman looked good defending the interior of the zone, and it appears he is becoming more comfortable there. I like him in the middle of the zone a lot more than I did at the beginning of the season.

F Tyler Roberson: 9

Roberson got into foul trouble early in the game, picking up three fouls in the first half. Then went the entire second half without fouling. Roberson had one of his better performances offensively. He shot 6-12 from the field, operating mostly inside, but also showed off his ability to make a face up jump shot. Roberson is a terrific rebounder, and grabbed 13 total rebounds, seven of which came on the offensive end. Roberson also played great defense, especially in the second half.

F Malachi Richardson: 5

Richardson had a great stretch the previous four games. He really came into his own offensively, shooting with more confidence, and doing a great job creating as well. However, he struggled to get going this game. Richardson only shot one of eight, and missed all four of his 3pt attempts. He scored just five points. Richardson missed time in the second half due to foul trouble.

G Trevor Cooney: 9.5

Trevor Cooney started the game hot, hitting three three-pointers. He continued to dominate the first half, before cooling off in the second frame. Cooney finished the game 7-14, and 6-11 from beyond the arc. He scored 25 points. Cooney also did an excellent job at the top of the zone, disrupting passing lanes, and preventing Wake Forest from getting the ball inside. He had three steals, and created a couple more.

G Michael Gbinije: 8

Gbinije struggled from outside. However, he was able to penetrate, and drive to the basket at will. He finished 6-11 from the field, but 0-2 from 3pt range, scoring fifteen points. Gbinije has been a high turnover point guard all season, and had four this game. That, unfortunately, is to be expected at this point. Gbinije, like Cooney his partner at the top of the zone, had a great defensive game. He also had three steals. Gbinije also grabbed eight rebounds.

F Tyler Lydon: 7

Lydon was more aggressive offensively this game than I've seen him in several games. Lydon will often pass or dribble even when he has an open look for three, but pulled the trigger as soon as he entered the game against Wake. Lydon finished the game 4-9, making three of his four attempts from beyond the arc. He had 11 points in just 18 minutes. Lydon did not have his best defensive game though, and quickly accumulated fouls. He left the game with four, and like Coleman, did not return.

Franklin Howard: 6

Howard got some extended playing time this game with several players in foul trouble. Howard had five points, and made his first 3pt field goal. Howard became Syracuse's primary ball handler whenever he entered the game, and finished the game with two assists and one turnover. Howard still needs to develop has a decision maker running the offense, but that's to be expected, considering he rarely plays.

C Chinoso Obokoh: 4.5

Obokoh had to come in to play 13 minutes under the basket, while Lydon and Coleman were in foul trouble. He is a good rim protector, and finished with three rebounds and a block. He also somehow managed to foul out in—again—13 minutes.

Team Rating: 7.43

Syracuse won in dominating fashion against Wake Forest. On offense, Syracuse is going to succeed when Gbinije and Cooney shoot over 50% from the field, and scoring a combined 40 points. They also played great defense, showing just how good this zone can be. They will need to be at their best against Duke on Monday.

Wake Forest Demon Deacons

F Devin Thomas: 6

I have been anticipating Devin Thomas destroy Syracuse all season long. I really thought he was going to be able to smash the zone. He did an excellent job patrolling the high post against Duke, and being able to create his shot from the free throw line (either by making jump shots over the defense, or driving the ball into the paint). However, he was completely neutralized by Syracuse's defense, and had one of his worst offensive performances of the year. Credit to Cooney and Gbinije who did an excellent job of disrupting passes, and ensuring the ball didn't get inside. Thomas shot just two for six, and although he was fouled often, he made just five of his eleven attempts from the line. Thomas was effective on the defensive end, collecting ten defensive rebounds, 13 total, and also blocking two shots. He did so while only picking up two fouls all game.

F Konstantinos Mitoglou: 5

Mitoglou made a jump shot early in the game, then completely disappeared. He has a tendency of doing this. He played only ten minutes against Syracuse, but still picked up four fouls. Mitoglou destroyed Syracuse last season, but was unable to replicate the performance.

G Bryant Crawford: 3

So, apparently Crawford's statistics for the season are pretty good. However, I only see him when he is terrible, and completely irrelevant. (The three Wake games I've watched this season have been against Syracuse, Duke, and Rutgers). Crawford failed to make a field goal, and scored just one point. He had four turnovers in 17 minutes.

G Mitchell Wilbekin: 5

Sadly, this was the best game I have seen of Mitchell Wilbekin, who I thought could be a solid third scoring option for Wake this year. He shot two of six, and made one of his five 3pt attempts. So, he scored seven points. Wilbekin also did not turn the ball over (the team did 18 times), or get into foul trouble.

G Codi Miller-McIntyre: 4

CMM was another played who had a rough game. He shot just one of seven from the field, and finished with just six points. He, like Crawford, turned the ball over four times, although Codi at least played 30 minutes.

G Cornelius Hudson: 5.5

Hudson is an inconsistent shooter, and was just 1-6 this game, taking all of his shots from beyond the arc. He did grab three steals though, and turned the ball over only once.

F Greg McClinton: 6

Greg McClinton was actually fairly effective on the offensive end. He made two of three shots, and got to the line a few times to score six points. Perhaps Wake should have stuck with him.

G Rondale Watson: 4

Watson played 17 minutes, and missed all three of his shots (all from 3pt range). He did have a pair of steals and rebounds though.

C Doral Moore: 8

I had said in my preseason preview that Wake's most interesting lineup would consist of Doral Moore playing center, and Devin Thomas beside him at power forward, finally this game I got a chance to see this lineup in action. As I predicted way back when, it was their most effective lineup. Moore scored a career high 10 points, shooting three of four, and making four of five free throw attempts. Moore has little polish around the basket, but he is big (7'1), long, and surprisingly athletic. Syracuse has no one who can challenge him size wise, and he was taking advantage of that fact. Give me more Moore!

F John Collins: N/A

Did not play enough to qualify. Collins has been one of the most productive players off Wake's bench, and has definitely been their best reserve forward. However, he barely found playing time against Syracuse.

G Trent VanHorn: 3.5

VanHorn very quietly played eleven minutes. Somehow he managed to pick up three fouls in that time, while failing to make a field goal.

Team Rating: 4.80

Wake Forest played absolutely terribly against Syracuse. They simply could not figure out the zone. Wake was forced to shoot nearly 50% (20 of 43) of their shots from 3pt range. They shot just 10% from that range (32.6% overall). They also lost the rebounding battle. They also could not take advantage of their ample opportunities from the free throw line, making just 25 of 42 attempts (59.5%). They also could not stop Trevor Cooney outside, or Michael Gbinije inside. Unfortunately, Wake Forest can only really rely on Devin Thomas consistently, and when he struggles they have no one to step up for them. This was a really bad loss, and it will be difficult to overcome.

Syracuse Player Ratings for their First Four ACC Games

This is a work in progress. I haven't had time to write up a full report on Syracuse's first four games. So, I'll post the ratings for those games as reference moving forward. 

6 North Carolina @ Syracuse

Syracuse Orange

C DaJuan Coleman: 6

F Tyler Roberson: 7

F Malachi Richardson: 7

G Trevor Cooney: 9.3

G Michael Gbinije: 4.5

F Tyler Lydon: 5.7

G Franklin Howard: N/A

Did not play enough minutes to qualify.

Team Rating: 6.68

North Carolina Tarheels

F Joel James: 6.5

F Brice Johnson: 9

F Justin Jackson: 8

G Marcus Paige: 4

G Joel Berry II: 8

F Kennedy Meeks: 6.5

F Isaiah Hicks: 9.5

F Theo Pinson:4

G Nate Britt: 4

Team Rating: 6.83

Syracuse Orange 61 @ Pittsburgh Panthers 72

Syracuse

C DaJuan Coleman: 2

Coming into this game, Coleman had enjoyed his two highest scoring performances of the year (13 and 14 point efforts), while shooting a combined 9-10 from the field. Unfortunately, he had a dreadful game against Pittsburgh. Coleman struggled to stay on the court. He was constantly in foul trouble, and was dismissed from the game with five fouls with more than six minutes remaining. He scored just two points, but most egregiously he had only one rebound, while playing seventeen minutes. Pittsburgh went on to out-rebound Syracuse 43:25, and grabbed 19 offensive rebounds. This has been a struggle for Syracuse all season. Coleman is a big bodied center who should be capable of defending the defensive glass better, but he was beaten by Pittsburgh's frontcourt numbers, the athleticism of Pittsburgh forwards (Young and Artis), and did not get enough help from teammates. Syracuse is going to need to find a way to improve in the rebounding department. Coleman also scored just two points this game.

F Tyler Roberson: 7.5

If there was a highlight for Syracuse this game, it was provided by Tyler Roberson. Roberson scored 15 points, shooting 7-12 from the field. Roberson did not take many jump shots this game, but did very well off the dribble—the best I've seen him off the dribble. There was one moment where he beat Jamel Artis off the dribble from the high post, and spinning in the paint that looked sensational. Artis is a tough defensive matchup, if Roberson can beat him off the dribble, then I think Roberson should be given more scoring opportunities. Roberson also had three blocks. On the negative side, Roberson averages 8.1 rebounds per game, and fell short of his average this game (he had seven), and four of his rebounds were on the offensive end. Normally, I'd applaud the offensive rebounds, but it just shows that he was ineffective helping Syracuse manage Pittsburgh's own offensive rebounds.

F Malachi Richardson: 5

On the bright side, Richardson shot 4-7, a nice clip, scoring ten points. He also looked good with the ball in his hands, and made a really pretty assist off the dribble. However, he doesn't have the same swagger he had when the season began. He does not seem as confident on offense, and is far less assertive. He shot only 1-4 from 3pt range, and he is shooting just 26% from beyond the arc on the season. He also managed just one rebound, and he is a big rebounding liability when on the floor. Hopkins often opted to play Coleman-Lydon-Roberson together when he could this game; luckily for Richardson, he didn't often get the chance due to foul trouble from Coleman and Lydon. Richardson is a big x-factor for the Orange moving forward. He could give them another great shooter, with high energy, and versatility. Or, he could continue to be a streaky shooter, with fading confidence, who plays average at best defense, with little to no rebounding ability.

G Trevor Cooney: 6.5

First and foremost, the thing I love most about Cooney following this game is how waits to run up the floor in transition until he knows the ball is secure. Pittsburgh was killing Syracuse on the offensive boards, so Cooney, after each Panthers shot, moved to the top of the key to wait for a potential long rebound. Cooney ended up with five defensive rebounds (six overall)--which were more defensive rebounds than any other Syracuse player. Cooney was only 3-8 from the field, but all of his made shots came from 3pt range, and he made six of eight free throws. He scored 15 total points, which was a team high along with Roberson.

G Michael Gbinije: 4

Gbinije's decision making at the end of the game was terrible. He took shots way too early in the shot clock. Richardson made a three with about three minutes to go to bring Syracuse to within one point. Syracuse then proceeded to turn the ball over four times in the final three minutes; Gbinije himself turned the ball over twice. Syracuse was 0-2 in that span. They ended up losing by eleven points, despite being down by only one with three minutes to go. So, somehow Syracuse only got two shots off in the final three minutes, and turned the ball over four times. I'm pointing my finger on the man with the ball, Gbinije. The senior shot just 4-12 from the field, 1-4 from 3pt range, and just 5-10 from the free throw line. He also grabbed just three rebounds, and turned the ball over four times, again, twice in the final three minutes. Sure, he had seven assists. Congrats. But, none of those came when the game was on the line.

F Tyler Lydon: 4

Yes, Lydon is as much responsible for Syracuse's inability to grab defensive rebounds as Coleman, or anyone else, maybe even more so because he played 30 minutes. However, what struck me most about Lydon's performance was the number of shots he passed up. Some of those led to assists of which he had three. But, it really bothered me that he refused to be a more active shooter in this game. Lydon attempted just three shots, and made one. He missed his only 3pt attempt. Lydon hasn't been a high volume shooter, but he should be taking more than just one shot for every ten minutes he spends on the court. Lydon had four fouls in this game. Hopkins wanted to play bigger against Pittsburgh, but was only able to for a couple of minutes due to fouls. It would have been interesting to see if that strategy could have paned out for the Orange, and if he turns to it again next game.

G Franklin Howard: N/A

Team Rating: 5.15

Syracuse probably played better than this rating—and the final score—indicates, especially the first seventeen minutes of the game. Gbinije, Lydon, and Coleman all received the lowest ratings I have given them this season (through the ten games I've covered). I could be hard on them all merely because of the bile like taste I have in my mouth even a day after watching the ending of this game.

Pittsburgh

F Rafael Maia: 6

F Michael Young: 8

F Jamel Artis: 9

G Sterling Smith: 3.5

G James Robinson: 5

F Sheldon Jeter: 7.5

G Chris Jones: 7

F Alonzo Nelson-Ododa: N/A

F Cameron Johnson: N/A

G Damon Wilson: N/A

Team Rating: 6.78

Syracuse 51 @ #13 Miami 64

SYRACUSE ORANGE

C DaJuan Coleman: 4

Coleman only played 15 minutes. He got into foul trouble early, and eventually fouled out. This game I had earmarked as a tough game for Syracuse's interior defense due to the size and skill of Tonye Jekiri, but Jekiri actually had a down game, taking only five shots. Coleman was 2-4 for four points, and also had four rebounds.

F Tyler Roberson: 6

Roberson had a really tough game shooting, as did the majority of players on both teams. He shot just 2-9 from the field, scoring five points. Roberson continues to struggle especially from mid range, and has almost completely stopped taking shots away from the basket. The junior doesn't need to be a great jump shooter, but it does add an extra wrinkle to his game, and makes him a more versatile scoring threat. Roberson led all players with eleven rebounds though. He had five on the offensive end, and six defensive rebounds. Eleven rebound for Roberson is pretty impressive playing against really good rebounders Jekiri and Kamari Murphy.

F Malachi Richardson: 9

Malachi Richardson enjoyed his best game for Syracuse against Miami. I wrote concerning Richardson during the Pittsburgh game that he was lacking in confidence, and wasn't showing the same swagger he displayed at the beginning of the season. He regained his confidence very early in this game. Richardson shot 7-15, but FIVE for SIX from 3pt range. He shot confidently at every opportunity, and for the first time I viewed Richardson as a player that can lead a very good team. Richardson also made an intentional effort to stay back, and grab defensive rebounds (clearly, the coaching staff had made this a priority for him—and others—between this game and the Pittsburgh game). He finished the game with six. Richardson also did a nice job while taking on more ball handling responsibility.

G Trevor Cooney: 5

Cooney struggled shooting just 2-7, and 1-5 from beyond the arc. He scored just five points. Cooney took less shots differing to the hot Richardson. Cooney even spent a rare five minutes on the bench, and sat while Syracuse played big, moving Richardson to shooting guard. Personally, I think Cooney is a really good role player, but he has been expected to be more than that, and thus, has been disappointing.

G Michael Gbinije: 3

Michael Gbinije is the best thing going for Syracuse this season, and the worst. He's been averaging 18 points per game, while shooting 45.6% from the field, and 40.8% from three point range. He is also averaging almost five assists per game. However, he has consistently made a mess of running the offense when the game on the line. Against Miami, Gbinije shot just 3-14, and was 0-7 from 3pt range. Sure, he grabbed six rebounds, and had four assists. But he also turned the ball over EIGHT times. EIGHT! Including three times in the final four minutes. Sigh. Syracuse could really use a legit point guard. (which they won't get next year since the rumors of Syracuse promising Tyus Battle the point guard position persist).

F Tyler Lydon: 6.5

Lydon hasn't taken many shots any game this year. But he now seems more tentative than selective. He made two of four shots, and was one of three from the 3pt line. He scored seven total points. Lydon also had ten rebounds, and led all players with nine—of the all important—defensive rebounds. Lydon also was not exposed defensively by Jekiri, like I thought he would.

C Chinoso Obokoh: 5.5

Obokoh played ten minutes this game because Coleman was constantly in foul trouble, and Syracuse chose to play big. Obokoh played decent defense. I still believe he is Syracuse's best rim protector. He had two rebounds, both offensive, and did not attempt a shot.

G Kaleb Joseph: N/A

Team Rating: 5.68

MIAMI HURRICANES

C Tonye Jekiri: 3

F Kamari Murphy: 7

G Davon Reed: 3.5

G Sheldon McClellan: 8

G Angel Rodriguez: 3

F Ivan Cruz Uceda: 5

G Ja'Quan Newton: 9

G James Palmer: 5

F Anthony Lawrence: N/A

Team Rating: 5.55

Clemson 74 @ Syracuse 73 (overtime)

SYRACUSE ORANGE

C Dajuan Coleman: 3.5

F Tyler Roberson: 7

F Malachi Richardson: 8

G Trevor Cooney: 6.5

G Michael Gbinije: 6

F Tyler Lydon: 5

Team Rating: 6.43

CLEMSON TIGERS

C Landry Nnoko: 9

F Jaron Blossomgame: 7.5

F Donte Gratham: 5

G Jordan Roper: 6

G Avry Holmes: 6.5

C Sidy Djitte: 6.5

G Gabe DeVoe: 8

G Ty Hudson: N/A

Team Rating: 6.88

4 Virginia @ Georgia Tech

4 Virginia @ Georgia Tech

Virginia Cavaliers

C Mike Tobey: 5

F Anthony Gill: 6

G Marial Shayok: 5

G Malcolm Brogdon: 8

G London Perrantes: 7

F Isaiah Wilkins: 5.5

C Jack Salt: 5

F Evan Nolte: 5.5

G Devon Hall: 4.5

G Darius Thompson: 5.5

F Jarred Reuter: N/A

Did not play enough to qualify.

Team Rating: 6.05

Virginia has now lost two straight games to team's projected to finish in the bottom half of the ACC. Each time I watch Virginia, I remark that the team's weakness is their interior defense. This game they went up against a Georgia Tech's strong frontcourt, which features multiple players who can score at will in the post. Virginia could not manufacture enough offense to keep up. Brogdon was good early, and Perrantes did his best to keep the team in the game late. However, the team only shot 40.4% from the field as a whole, and just 22.2% from three.

Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets

F James White: 7

F Charles Mitchell: 6

F Quinton Stephens: 8.5

G Adam Smith: 7

G Marcus Georges-Hunt: 6

F Nick Jacobs: 9

C Ben Lammers: 6

G Josh Heath: 5.5

G Tadric Jackson: 5.5

Team Rating: 6.78

Georgia Tech received stellar play from their big men, especially Nick Jacobs and James White. Jacobs showed off the ability to score from anywhere inside the arc, and seems proficient both in the low both, and stepping back for a jumper. Virginia often chose to double team star Charles Mitchell, but Georgia Tech was often able to take advantage of the situation and find the open man, and when they left Mitchell single guarded he was able to score. Adam Smith and Marcus Georges-Hunt did not have their best games, but Smith still hit four 3-pointers, and MGH is still adapting to the point guard position. Quentin Stephens was also very impressive in the win. He shot 6-8, and four for four from 3pt range. In addition to scoring, Stephens also played good defense. Georgia Tech looked very good against Virginia, and they could continue to surprise, especially if the backcourt plays better.

16 Louisville @ North Carolina State: Player Ratings and Recap

The ACC season keeps moving on. Here are player ratings for last night's game between ACC undefeated Louisville, and North Carolina State trying to avoid going 0-2 in the conference. 

#16 Louisville 77 @ North Carolina State 72

Louisville Cardinals

C Chinanu Onuaku: 8

Onuaku has had a good season averaging just under 10 points per game, and 8 rebounds. He had an even better game shooting six of nine for 12 points, and adding 14 rebounds. His success on the offensive end was impressive going up against NC State's bigs, including Beejay Anya who is one of the best rim protector's in the conference. He also played pretty good defense, especially helping on the perimeter on Cat Barber. Although NC State were allowed to grab way too many offensive rebounds, nineteen.

F Jaylen Johnson: 5.5

Jaylen Johnson got some extended minutes this game, due to Mathiang's absence. He made the most of his minutes with a stellar game. He went just three for eight from the field, but made both of his FT attempts to score eight points total. He also had seven rebounds, which was second on the team. Johnson did struggle guarding Abdul-Malik Abu at times, who is a bigger, more athletic power forward, and needed to help box out more, as NC State had way too many offensive rebounds. Johnson should continue to play more (~20 minutes a game) as long as Mathiang is out.

G Damion Lee: 6.5

Damion Lee has been Louisville's best scorer. However, he took a more passive role in the offense this game. This was because Quentin Snider received an increased role, and he is the team's only true PG. So, he ran the offense, and went on a scoring tear. Lee still made the most of the shots he did take. He went four for eight from the field, and three for six from beyond the arc. Lee finished the game with 13 points. It certainly wasn't his most dominate offensive game, but he made timely shots, and did enough to keep Louisvillle ahead.

G Donovan Mitchell: 5

Donovan Mitchell shows off his potential at times, bursting to the basket, making pull up jumpers off the dribble, and making a nice assist after penetrating. However, more often he is little involved in the offense, and disappears for long stretches. He finished this game just one for three, scoring three points. Although he did have four assists, and only one turnover.

G Trey Lewis: 3.5

Trey Lewis struggled this game. He was faced with the difficult task of guarding Cat Barber, and got into foul trouble early, and only played 19 minutes as a result. He ended up 0-4 from the field, and scored four points on foul shots. Luckily, Snider came in to replace Lewis, and led Louisville to victory. But, Lewis, who is averaging 13.6 ppg, will be needed for games against the ACC's top half teams.

G Quentin Snider: 9

I was not a fan of Quentin Snider coming into the season, but he has performed well coming off the bench thus far, and led Louisville to victory against NC State. Snider played 32 minutes due to Trey Lewis' foul trouble, and absolutely dominated. He shot 7-11 from the field, and made four of his six 3pt attempts. Snider scored a game high 21 points. This was the most dynamic I have ever seen Snider offensively. He took his shots confidently, and had great success taking the ball to the basket as well. It certainly helps that NC State has poor perimeter defenders. Snider even played good defense on Cat Barber, holding him to under 33% shooting.

F Raymond Spalding: 6.5

Raymond Spalding has also seen a bump in his playing time with Mathiang out. He played 19 minutes against the Wolfpack, and made six of his eight attempts, scoring 12 points. Spalding has a lot to improve upon though. He scored most of his points around the basket, although he did make a mid-range jumper too. He never had to post up one of NC State's bigs, but had uncontested attempts near the hoop. Spalding also committed three fouls in his 19 minutes on the floor, and failed to record even a single defensive rebound.

F Deng Adel: 5

This was my first look at Deng Adel, as he's missed eight games thus far this season. Adel has averaged just 10.4 minutes a game, and 3.3 ppg. He is clearly a great athlete; he has a great first step, and easily shook defenders when moving without the ball. I'm surprised he hasn't attempted a 3pt shot thus far this season. I had read prior to the season that he was a good jump shooter, but he has yet to prove that in games this season. Adel shot two for five this game, and had one rebound, and one block. Adel likely will not receive much playing time moving forward, especially with Spalding playing well, but he is one to keep an eye on for next season.

F Anas Mahmoud: 4.5

Mahmoud did not make much of an impact on this game. He was 0-1 shooting, had a rebound, a block, and picked up a couple quick fouls. He is a nice asset as a versatile defender though.

Team Rating: 6.38

Louisville was not firing on all cylinders this game. Damion Lee and Trey Lewis, the team's two best offensive players, struggled, and they allowed a lot of offensive rebounds, nineteen. However, Quentin Snider had a great game off the bench, and the team played great defense.

North Carolina State Wolfpack

C BeeJay Anya: 5.5

Anya was one of two, and missed all four of his FT attempts, scoring just two points. Anya is a beast grabbing offensive rebounds—he had five this game—but, he was unable to take advantage of them himself, as he was fouled trying to put the ball back up, and missed his free throws. He had seven total rebounds. Anya is one of the best, probably the best, rim protector in the conference. However, he struggled this game, against Onuaku and company. He also only had one block.

F Abdul-Malik Abu: 8

Abu was NC State's best player this game. He can score in a variety of way, and has good athleticism for his size. He did a nice job taking Louisville's bigs on the dribble. Abu was also active on the offensive boards, and got some second chance points for the Wolfpack. He also made five foul shots. Abu finished the game with 15 points. He also had 12 rebounds, and a block.

G Caleb Martin: 5.5

Caleb Martin scored 13 points, but shot only 3-10 from the field. On the bright side, Martin was 3-7 from beyond the arc, and made four of his five FT attempts. Martin does not play great perimeter defense either.

G Maverick Rowan: 6.5

Maverick Rowan is an inconsistent scorer. He is shooting just 36.5% from the field, while taking 12 shots per game. He seems like NC State's Trevor Cooney (but the bigger, higher upside, freshman version). Rowan even makes clutch 3pt shots at times. He was 5-13 this game, and scored 17 points. However, Rowan is a terrible perimeter defender. He needs to improve his consistency on offense, and his defense, because he is a key player for this team.

G “Cat” Barber: 6

Barber has been the best player in the ACC thus far this season. He was not at his best this game though. Sure, Barber ended up with 20 points. However, it took him 22 shots to get those 20 points, and ended the game just 1-7 from 3pt range. Barber is shooting just 27.3% from that range for the season. Barber is at his best when he is using his elite speed and athleticism to get to attack the basket, but Louisville did a nice job defending him with Snider spearheading the effort, and Onuaku helping off screens. Barber finished the game 7-22 from the field, but made all five of his FT attempts. He also had four assists, and turned the ball over only once. Louisville did a nice job of muzzling Barber, and make him work twice as hard for his points this game.

F Leonard Freeman: 5.5

Freeman played more than half the game. He grabbed six rebounds, but scored only two points, missing his only field goal attempt.

F Cody Martin: 6

Cody Martin is a great hustle, and energy player. He does all the little things (to be oh so cliché). He is also NC State's best perimeter defender. He scored just three points, but grabbed two rebounds, and also had a pair of assists, and a block.

Team Rating: 6.30

NC State was in this game up until the end, despite not getting the best games from their two leading scorers: Cat Barber and Caleb Martin. Their ability to grab offensive rebounds helped them stay close, as it will in many games this season. They also got some timely shots from Maverick Rowan. Still, this team is going to struggle because they have bad perimeter defenders, and too few consistent offensive threats. I still think NC State is dangerous because Cat Barber, this game notwithstanding, can run over defenses, and win games on his own. He needs to improve his jump shooting though to keep defenses honest. 

14 Duke @ Wake Forest: Player Ratings and Recap

I'm finally back after an extended break (vacation and then holiday). However, I am ready to get back to the college basketball season. I have some old content from Syracuse's first three ACC games as well, but I've been too depressed to publish it. Instead, we're starting with an old school ACC contest between Duke, who've slipped out of the top ten, and Wake Forest, who's one of my sleeper teams in the conference. You can expect more consistent content from this point moving forward. Enjoy.

14 Duke 91 @ Wake Forest 75

Duke Blue Devils

C Marshall Plumlee: 8.5

Marshall Plumlee struggled guarding Devin Thomas, as every Blue Devil did. Thomas consistently received the ball outside the paint, and drove in on his own, showing off a multitude of moves, proving to be too agile and skilled for Plumlee. However, Plumlee was an enforcer when Thomas was out of the game, and had a pair of blocks. He also had his best game on the offensive end. Plumlee was the recipient of many dump off passes, following a drive by Grayson Allen or another one of Duke's guards. Plumlee positioned himself deep on the baseline, on the short corner, almost completely out of play, and Wake often failed to pick him—especially when Devin Thomas was on the bench. Plumlee was seven of seven from the field, and also made all four of his free throw attempts. He finished the game with 18 points, and 7 rebounds.

F Brandon Ingram: 8

Brandon Ingram did a great job assertive himself on the offensive end in the first half. He hit a couple 3's, and got to the basket easily. Wake Forest had trouble finding someone capable of guarding him. Ingram slowed down in the second half, and had trouble finishing off the dribble; at that point in the game he had Codi Miller-McIntyre guarding him, who did a nice job of staying in front of him. Ingram finished the game 5-13, making two of five shots from beyond the arc, and making five of six shots from the free throw line. Ingram also had five rebounds, and three assists. Ingram's length and size are great on the defensive end, especially in Duke's system. He had three steals and four blocks this game.

G Matt Jones: 3

Matt Jones had his worst game of the season against Wake Forest. He's been averaging 14 points per game this season, but managed just two points, while shooting 1-8, and missing all six of his three point attempts. He also got into foul trouble quickly (finishing with four), and missed significant time sitting on the bench.

G Grayson Allen: 9

Allen was electric on offense. He shot three for four from 3pt range, and had even more success driving to the basket. He finished the game 7-10, and seven of eight from the free throw line. He scored 24 points. Allen also played pretty good defense—the best defense I've seen him play this year—containing Mitchell Wilbekin.

G Derryck Thornton: 6

Thornton is blessed by being the point guard on a team that doesn't always need a point guard. Luke Kennard or Grayson Allen are just as likely to run the offense, so there is little pressure on Thornton. Thornton doesn't make the same impact on the game as either of the aforementioned guards. Thornton shot 3-9, making his only three pointer. He scored seven points, and also had three rebounds, and two assists.

G Luke Kennard: 9

Luke Kennard had a great game. He is averaging just 23 minutes/game, but played 32 against Wake due to Matt Jones' injury woes. He made the most of the opportunity, shooting 7-11 from the field, and making all nine of his free throw attempts, scoring 23 points (one short of his season and career high). Kennard is not a great three point shooter. He is just 28.8% from that range this season, and was just 0-1 in this game, but was great from anywhere inside the arc. He is surprisingly good off the dribble, pulling up, and taking the ball to the basket. This was a very impressive performance.

F Chase Jeter: N/A

Jeter didn't make an impact on the floor, and did not play enough to qualify.

C Sean Obi: N/A

It's telling that Obi even had come in late in the second half. He didn't fare better than anyone else guarding Devin Thomas.

Team Rating: 6.9

This was a great game for the Blue Devils. Wake Forest is a good opponent (they'll be a dangerous team against anyone in the ACC this year), and Duke was on the road. Duke put on an impressive shooting display. They finished shooting 51.7% from the field, 35.3% from three, and were 25-27 from the free throw line—92.6%. Duke can score with anyone in the country, and this game they were firing on almost every cylinder. Grayson Allen and Luke Kennard make a dangerous backcourt combo, both of whom are capable of making jump shots, and driving to the basket. The Blue Devils did struggle with their interior defense against Devin Thomas. They also allowed 19 offensive rebounds. However, Devin Thomas is the best offensive big man in the conference, and Duke was once again missing Amile Jefferson.

Wake Forest Demon Deacons

F Devin Thomas: 9

I'm very torn on this rating. Devin Thomas' technical foul, and subsequent foul trouble, and time on the bench ending this game for the Demon Deacons, but they never would have been in this game without Thomas either. So, although Devin Thomas made a boneheaded move getting a technical, which turned into a six point swing for Duke, and gave Thomas is third foul, he gets a big rating here.Thomas is the best big man, offensively, in the conference. He scores in a variety of ways. Wake Forest did an excellent job of giving Thomas the ball outside of the paint in this game, and allowing him to work his way in against Duke. Thomas has surprising athletic ability and quickness, and is extremely skilled, and was able to score on Duke in a variety of ways. Thomas even carried he ball up the court, and cut through Duke's defense to score at the rim. Thomas shot 9-11, and scored a team high 21 points. He also showed off his ability to pass the ball, and keep Duke's defense honest. He had three assists. Thomas unfortunately got himself into foul trouble. Early in the second half he fouled Plumlee, and picked up a technical foul in the aftermath. This gave him his third foul, and he was forced to sit. Later he picked up a fourth foul upon being brought back in. Danny Manning then sat him until there was less than four minutes to go, and at that point, the game was already over (Duke was up by more than ten).

F Konstantinos Mitoglou: 5

Mitoglou started the game hot, making a couple of shots early, but was inactive the rest of the game. He struggled defensively against Ingram, and taken out in favor of a more athletic wing player to guard the freshman. Mitoglou reentered the game when Thomas got into foul trouble, but he was badly abused by Marshall Plumlee.

G Bryant Crawford: 3

Crawford is enjoying a good freshman campaign. He is averaging 13 points per game. However, he was completely ineffective against Duke. He was 0-6 from the field, and could never get anything going. He also turned the ball over three times.

G Mitchell Wilbekin: 3

Wilbekin was a player I thought would emerge into a solid third scorer for Wake Forest this year. However, he has not improved the way I thought he would, and is averaging less than eight points per game. He scored 0 points against Duke, shooting 0-5 all from beyond the arc. He also struggled defensively against both Grayson Allen and Luke Kennard at times.

G Codi Miller-McIntyre: 8

Codi Miller-McIntyre has struggled this season after missing the first eight games with injury. Prior to this game, CMM had surpassed four points in just one game. He found his grove against Duke though. CMM was Wake's only spark plug when Thomas was out of the game, and he proved effective driving to the basket, and getting second chance points. CMM finished the game 9-19 from the field, and scored 20 points. He also had seven rebounds, and three assists. CMM also played surprisingly effective defense against Ingram in the second half. Miller-McIntyre's performance was a positive sign for Wake moving forward, they need him to be at his best (and his best is really good!) if they want to challenge for an NCAA tournament berth.

F John Collins: 7

Collins has some really nice tools. He can score inside, although his post skills still require development, and he is a really good rebounder, and shot blocker. However, he has a lot to learn on the defensive end. Collins finished the game with 11 points, 7 rebounds, and 2 blocks. I really like what I'm seeing from him though as the heir to Devin Thomas' position next season.

G Cornelius Hudson: 7

Cornelius Hudson is a pretty inconsistent outside shooter, but he made his shots this game. He was 4-8 from the field, and 3-6 from outside, scoring 12 points. He was also a better matchup defensively for Duke's wings than Crawford and Wilbekin.

G Rondale Watson: 5.5

Rondale Watson played almost half the game, but did not make much of an impact. He did make a 3pt shot, and finish with three rebounds, and three assists.

Team Rating: 6.35

Wake Forest played Duke very tough until the final five minutes of the game. Devin Thomas is a dominant offensive player, and the Demon Deacons finally saw Codi Miller-McIntyre hit his stride, which is extremely encouraging. The team also has to be pleased with the way John Collins and Cornelius Hudson are playing off the bench. However, Wake is lacking a perimeter threat, especially in this game. Wilbekin, Mitoglou, and Crawford need to step up, and play more consistently, they all disappeared in this game. Overall, I like what I have seen from Wake Forest though, and think they could compete for a NCAA tournament berth this season. I'm looking forward to see them play against a team like Pittsburgh.