As someone who has been very critical of JMike, I thought it was only fair to recognize his improvement since the Princeton game (12/21/24). Here are some high level stats:
He certainly still has some limitations (getting blocked on drives) but his shooting percentages have improved dramatically, going 8 for 8 at the FT line last night. But what stands out to me is his turnover rate. After averaging 1.3 turnovers a game as a freshman, he has 38 assists to 9 turnovers in those last 17 games. On the season, he is 26th in the country in assist:turnover ratio.
As for his role next year, I did not think he belonged in the Big 10 two months ago. But we desperately need some continuity after two years of significant roster turnover and think he can be a solid contributor and someone who seems to embody the "culture" aspects that will likely be needed.
- Freshman Season: 5.6PPG, 1.9AST, 1.3TO. Shooting splits: 37% FG, 22% 3PT, 52% FT
- Sophomore First 11 games: 2.3PPG, 1.4AST, 0.67TO. Shooting Splits: 35% FG, 0% 3PT (0 for 7), 54% FT
- Sophomore Last 17 games: 6.53PPG, 2.3AST, 0.5TO. Shooting splits: 40% FG, 44% 3PT, 76% FT.
He certainly still has some limitations (getting blocked on drives) but his shooting percentages have improved dramatically, going 8 for 8 at the FT line last night. But what stands out to me is his turnover rate. After averaging 1.3 turnovers a game as a freshman, he has 38 assists to 9 turnovers in those last 17 games. On the season, he is 26th in the country in assist:turnover ratio.
As for his role next year, I did not think he belonged in the Big 10 two months ago. But we desperately need some continuity after two years of significant roster turnover and think he can be a solid contributor and someone who seems to embody the "culture" aspects that will likely be needed.
