In that Brian James interview from the other thread, at about 25:35 he mentioned that Brooks Barnhizer will be the primary ballhandler this year. Not necessarily something that I would have expected. That's a pretty big revelation I think.
Barnhizer - Primary Ballhandler
- Thread starter PURPLE Book Cat
- Start date
Not terribly surprising, imho. Outside of Boo, Brooks probably brought the ball up the court the most last season. Perhaps surprising only in that we don't really think of Brooks as a guard because of his strength inside, but as far as dependability and experience in ball-handling, this is somewhat predictable.
Remember, Brooks was a "lead guard" in HS. Since he'll usually be guarded by a 3 or a 4, he should be able to get the ball up the court without a problem.
I thought I heard Special Assistant James say Barnhizer would be "a primary ballhandler" after saying "Barnhizer will handle the ball more than he did last year." It wasn't definitive. They don't seem sure that Leach can run the offense (so far).
It sounds like a work in progress with a bunch of different pieces, but not necessarily a point guard.
Not a huge fan of this stratagem, as BB exerts a ton of effort on defense. It's just a lot to ask of one guy. Hopefully other options emerge.
Heard James also share conflicting view that Leach would be the primary ball handler. So who knows?
I expect we'll see different guys bringing the ball up all season with a few offensive sets tailored for each of them.
No doubt the Cats will spend a decent chunk of early practices on a variety of press-breaking strategies.
No doubt the Cats will spend a decent chunk of early practices on a variety of press-breaking strategies.