There are so many unique dynamics in basketball, especially as the game continually evolves. However, one thing will always remain true: talent isn’t everything. Possessing a certain level of talent is obviously required for most successful players, but it’s the intangibles and understanding of team ideology that tend to create the environment for greatness. Why is this relevant? Well, arguably no team from the travel ball season exemplified these traits better than the Tennessee Tigers. They entered our Summer Havoc with a lot of buzz and certainly delivered, as dozens of college coaches were buzzing about their entire roster throughout the weekend. Their unselfish brand of basketball allows everyone to contribute and leads to incredible on-court success. Let’s take a closer look at each of their pieces…
We wrote pretty extensively about Cutter Sisk yesterday (read here), but we will attempt to reiterate some of what makes him so great without sounding redundant. Sisk is a real offensive weapon with such an incredible skill level that he’s able to effortlessly dismantle opposing defenses in various ways. Whether posting up on the block, operating from the elbows, or stationing himself at the top of the key, all eyes are on him. It didn’t seem to matter if teams were sending two (and sometimes even three) bodies to contain him, Sisk would either attack before the help arrived or quickly locate open teammates as a passer. He carves out space so well around the basket and reliably controls the glass as a two-way rebounder. Sisk isn’t a traditional rim-protector, but he does display great timing and positioning to block shots at a useful rate. He stands out as a terrific teammate and leader by example.
Similar to the entry above, we had a lot of praise regarding Cameron Blivens (read here), but it’s easy to appreciate everything he brings to this group. He’s a multi-sport athlete who holds Division I offers for football and basketball. Blivens is a smart, all-around floor general who consistently impacts the game on both ends of the floor. He dictates the action with pace and unselfishness while actively seizing available scoring chances as needed. Blivens scores from all levels while consistently creating for others, applying pressure as a downhill driver, and defending with toughness at the point of attack. He’s a true gamer who possesses a calm demeanor and understanding of how to take over a game as needed.
Although that duo generated a lot of excitement, Derrick Roberson Jr. is another guy scholarship-level coaches should be pursuing. At 6-foot-6, he’s a do-it-all forward with excellent feel and versatility on both ends of the floor. Roberson is capable of doing a lot of different things with the ball in his hands. He’s a reliable post-up scorer, finisher, and threat off the bounce. Roberson handles the ball well for his size and displays great feel as a passer, showing the ability to run inverted screen actions or cause matchup problems for opponents. He plays well through contact and finishes consistently with either hand. Roberson displays quality energy, footwork, toughness, and general instincts as a defender and rebounder. He visibly stands out as an x-factor for this group and should continue attracting college coaches over these next few months.
In a similar vein, guys like JaRohn Johnson and Will McCrary are vital to the Tigers’ success. Johnson is a big, strong-bodied forward with the ability to physically overwhelm opponents near the basket or space the floor as needed. He consistently rebounds, makes hustle plays, and fills in the gaps offensively. Meanwhile, McCrary stands out through his high motor, scrappy nature, and ability to consistently score out of the post. He secures deep position around the basket, displays great touch as a finisher, and shows a willingness to do the dirty work.
Rounding out their roster, this group has a slew of guards who make an impact. At 6-foot-3, Devin Fish offers a great combination of size, passing, and perimeter shooting. He competes with energy defensively, scores as needed, and makes the extra pass when available. Next, Demarion Bowman consistently stood out through his motor, toughness, and two-way involvement. He made a lasting impression by hitting shots, setting up others, and containing opposing guards defensively. Finally, Tyshaun Poore is another steady, well-rounded piece who provides valuable energy. He’s capable of altering his approach as needed, but typically looks to fill in the gaps and produce within the flow of the action.