If you like the "Around The Rim" column that pours out of Chris Granozio's brain regularly, you'll love the even deeper look into the region in Rim Shots, which is an add-on feature for Patreon subscribers. An excerpt below from the inaugural Rim Shots:
In this challenging and frustrating Portal Era, where many (although not all) players seem to be only as loyal as their options, I have spent some time researching where some of last year’s East regional stars who changed schools wound up. I have narrowed my focus to players who averaged at least eight points a game last year, and then I divided them into three categories, regarding their situation from a basketball standpoint only:
- Thumb’s Up – a good move for the player
- Thumb’s Down – a disappointing move for the player
- Thumb’s Parallel – a move that neither benefits nor hampers the player
There are 25 student-athletes I found who fit this criterion, only six of whom have seen an increase in minutes during the current campaign. Now, there are several reasons for players to change settings, so this is not meant to be an indictment or criticism, but simply a case-by-case, subjective evaluation of their choices relative to the perceived advancement of their collegiate careers. Again, it’s one man’s opinion, and I certainly welcome yours!
We begin with the Thumb’s Ups:
Isiah Gaiter
Last Year at Assumption: 32.8 min, 16.3 ppg, 7.6 rpg, 3.7 apg, .492 FG
This Year at D1 South Alabama: 35.0 min, 16.4 ppg, 4.3 rpg, 2.4 apg, .486 FG
The 6-3 combo guard and first-team all-conference star ranks third in the Sun Belt conference in scoring and sixth in shooting while his team is 8-6. His scoring average is nearly identical despite playing at a higher level, while his rebounding and assist numbers have dropped, mostly because he’s not as relied upon to be a rebounder or passer in his new environment. Gaiter follows exactly the same path as former Franklin Pierce standout Isaiah Moore, who was fourth in the league in scoring at 18.9 ppg last year with these same Jaguars. Guess Head Coach Richie Riley keeps a close eye on NE10 backcourts.
Like what you just read? You can review the other 24 players - and also get exclusive coverage via Tim McCaffrey's Musings - by considering a Patreon subscription. It’s a way to cover our website costs so we can continue covering the region with the same commitment to excellence. The link is: www.patreon.com/D2easthoops. Also, please follow us on X for info and action photos at @D2EastHoops. You can also email me (Don) with any technical questions - or any questions at all, at dfamilo@twcny.rr.com or by sending a message on Patreon. And always, reach out to Chris with any questions or comments about his nonsense at chrisgranozio@gmail.com. Thanks again for your interest in d2easthoops.org!