5 Big Ten bigs with big shoes to fill
5 Big Ten bigs with big shoes to fill NCAA.com
» — Illini Basketball (@IlliniMBB)
CHAMPS
PRESENTED BY The 2016-17 college basketball campaign will kick off in November, but coaches and their staff are busy looking ahead to see which players can carry the load for their respective squads. In a guard-heavy Big Ten conference, a few big men will be expected to both patrol the paint and control the glass. Haas is likely the only player on this list who spent his time in practice going at another 7-footer in AJ Hammons. More importantly, Haas is a big man with an ambidexterous touch around the rim. Pair that with a solidly built frame, a baby fadeaway jumper and good defensive instincts, and you've got a solid two-way player to deal with. One that he seems ready to take on. Isaac Haas coaching up Taylor while alumni being introduced at halftime. — GoldandBlack.com (@GoldandBlackcom) Given Purdue’s tendency to dump the ball into the post, Haas’ field goal percentage is sure to make his coaches excited about the possibilities. But arguably the most valued attribute in Haas’ arsenal may be one that is still being cultivated in the big man — patience. Following a run to the Sweet 16, Indiana rolls into 2016-17 campaign with a few questions marks. After dealing with the departureS of Yogi Ferrell and Troy Williams, head coach Tom Crean will be tasked with weaving combo guard James Blackmon Jr. back into the mix. This year's Hoosiers will likely be more of a blend of styles from years past. The spacing and ball movement that has epitomized the IU attack could still take shape around Bryant setting up shop down low. Shooting still surrounds the sophomore big man in the form of Blackmon Jr. and Robert Johnson, and another year will do wonders for the continued maturation of O.G. Anunoby. The onus will be on Bryant to continue his strong play from last season. (4) Dererk Pardon — (6'8", sophomore, center): 6.7 ppg, 4.2 rpg, 0.3 apg, 0.6 bpg, 64.6 FG percentage, 16.6 mpg) (5) Mike Thorne Jr — (6'11", center, senior): 12.9 ppg, 8.5 rpg, 0.3 apg, 0.6 bpg, 21.4 mpg) Nonetheless, the coaching staff and players alike are looking forward to weaving the burly big man back into the fold. It's official. will be back!» — Illini Basketball (@IlliniMBB)