Analyzing Northwestern Basketball Players: Strengths, Weaknesses, and Performance Insights

[ThatkidfromHolland]

With the first game of the season right around the corner, I have decided to provide a breakdown of the team. I will discuss what NU has lost, what they currently have, and what they gained over the off-season. For newcomers who have not played any college ball, my analysis will be a compilation/summary of the scouting reports I have read about them. While it won't be super in-depth, it will provide a general overview. For newcomers who have played college ball, I have watched some highlights and compiled scouting reports to assess their abilities. For returning players, I will base my analysis on last year's tape and will not assume any improvement during the off-season. I will also highlight areas they needed to work on during the off-season. Lastly, I will provide my insights on the role I believe each player will fill based on their performance last year.

 

[ThatkidfromHolland]

Departures

1. Robbie Beran
34 GP 25.8 MPG 7.5 PPG 4.5 RPG 0.6 APG

Robbie Beran, a highly versatile 4. One of his strong suits was his ability to sink three-pointers. Not only did he possess good length and speed, but he also displayed adept handles and a delicate touch for a player of his size. As Robbie enters the upcoming season with Virginia Tech, he should focus on honing his offensive consistency and aggression. It was evident last year that he occasionally hesitated on taking open shots. To enhance his game, Robbie needs to exploit his athletic prowess by driving past slower defenders. Additionally, he must utilize his height advantage by overpowering smaller defenders inside. Undoubtedly, there is significant offensive potential within Robbie, but he has yet to fully unlock it during his four years in college. On the defensive end, Robbie excels. Despite his size, he proves to be a formidable perimeter defender and a skilled shot-blocker and help defender. His seamless switching and disruptive length posed significant challenges for opposing bigs when paired with Nicholson. Together, they formed a towering duo that made shooting around them quite arduous. All in all, Robbie's defensive versatility will undoubtedly be sorely missed by the Cats.

2. Julian Roper
15 GP 21.5 MPG 4.4 PPG 3.7 RPG 1.1 APG

Julian had a mixed performance for the cats during the previous season due to injuries that caused him to miss a significant portion of the games. On the offensive side, Julian showed some potential in his dribbling skills. However, there were instances where he tried to force plays and excessively dribbled or drove the ball. On a positive note, he seemed to have developed a fairly good three-point shot, as he had a 42% shooting rate from beyond the arc last year. To fully maximize his abilities, Julian needed some time to understand how to find opportunities within the team's strategy instead of trying to force his own agenda. Overall, he was a decent offensive asset for the team, although there were moments where he negatively impacted NU's performance. With further progress and playing more in sync with the team, Julian had the potential to become a reliable scoring option as the 3rd or 2nd choice during certain games for the cats. Defense has consistently been a strong suit for Roper since he joined the team. It is uncommon for a freshman to seamlessly adapt to the defensive aspect of the game. Last season, he was arguably the second-best perimeter defender for NU, along with Ty Berry. Despite his size, Julian displayed impressive strength. He was quick on his feet and had enough athleticism to effectively guard his opponents. His absence will be felt, as he was a valuable asset on the defensive end. It's unfortunate that injuries disrupted his season and caused him to fall behind other players in terms of playing time.

3. Tydus Verhooven
34 GP 15.8 MPG 2.4 PPG 2.6 RPG .7 APG

TVH was an active participant on the offensive end, displaying a willingness to set screens and showcasing great mobility for a center. While he wasn't known for his finesse around the rim, he managed to secure some crucial offensive rebounds. Scoring wasn't a key expectation within NU's offense, yet TVH excelled in his role as a reliable backup big. However, it was on the defensive end where TVH truly displayed his value as an experienced substitute, facilitating Nicholson's transition into the starting lineup. Defensively, he presented a different dynamic compared to Nicholson, offering superior agility and quickness. Ultimately, TVH's arrival at NU as a transfer proved to be a triumph, as he fully embraced and excelled in his designated role.

4. Chase Audige
34 GP 34.4 MPG 14.1 PPG 3.4 RPG 2.9 APG

Chase was an inconsistent player on the offensive end. On his good days, he was unstoppable, displaying exceptional shooting accuracy and a remarkable ability to make mid-range jump shots. He had the skill to outmaneuver opponents and reach the basket through dribbling. However, there were times when Chase wasn't at his best. While he showed improvement in shot selection last season, there is still room for further development in that area. Despite his increased focus on involving his teammates, Chase lacked the necessary court vision to fully capitalize on his newfound mindset. His offensive intelligence was not one of his strengths. Despite his streaky performances, Chase was the second-best offensive player on the Cats team last year. We will greatly miss his scoring threat and the excitement of watching him get into a red-hot rhythm next season.
Audige, on the other hand, was a standout player in terms of perimeter defense, not just on the team but also in the B1G conference last year. He could make a strong argument for being the best defender in the entire nation, earning him the DPOY (Defensive Player of the Year) award. Chase showcased his defensive skills through exceptional intelligence, instincts, and relentless effort. Chase possessed impressive length and athleticism, making him a borderline NBA-level player. It almost seems as though the basketball gods specifically created Chase Audige as the epitome of a defensive player. He excelled at intercepting passes and had lightning-fast hands, generating countless steals for both himself and his teammates. His impact on NU's dominance on the defensive end last year was undeniable, and his departure to the pros leaves a void that will be difficult to fill. We'll truly miss witnessing his exceptional performance in an NU uniform.

Total Loss
42.49% of min 38.28% of points 36.2% of rebounds 38.43% of assists

The cats heavily relied on their defense to remain competitive in games, especially when their shooting performance was subpar during the previous season. However, the team is now faced with the departure of their second-best player, resulting in a significant loss of both versatility and defensive capabilities. Each player that is no longer with the team contributed mobility and robust defense last year. Notably, the cats will be without two of their top three perimeter defenders, Chase and Julian. Consequently, there is a considerable void to fill in terms of defense, requiring multiple players to step up and develop in order to compensate for the losses.

 

[ThatkidfromHolland]

Additions

1. Blake Barkley

Blake, standing at a height of 6'8", appears to be a suitable candidate for the 3-4 position on NU's team for the upcoming season. However, being a freshman, it is unlikely that he will receive significant playing time, as the 4 position is already occupied by Barnhizer. If Blake does manage to earn some minutes on the court, it would be a pleasing surprise. Generally, I have low expectations for freshmen players, but am pleasantly surprised when they display talent and contribute to the team. It is worth noting that Barkley received the prestigious OVAC First Team All-Conference honors during his high school career. Notably, he maintained an impressive average of 13.5 points and 8.2 rebounds per game in the highly competitive ADIDAS 3SSB circuit. With his notable shooting skills and strong rebounding abilities, Barkley holds the potential to become an intriguing player for the team in the future. PSA head coach Tom Espinosa had high praise for Barkley, describing him as a versatile player who possesses exceptional shooting abilities and an aptitude for dominating the boards. I eagerly anticipate witnessing Barkley's contribution to the team's success, as he dons the purple jersey.

2. Parker Strauss

Parker is a highly skilled guard standing at an impressive height of 6'4". He is expected to contribute effectively in the 1-2 positions for the team. We are hopeful that either Strauss or Clayton would be capable of handling the offense and allowing Buie to take a short break for about 5 minutes. However, if these freshmen players lack the necessary skills, we may need to consider one of our returning players for this role.
During his time in High School, Parker showcased exceptional statistics, averaging 11.3 points, 7.1 rebounds, 5.0 assists, and 2.8 steals per game. He is known for his outstanding versatility as a guard, possessing a combination of height and unique abilities. According to his high school coach, Parker's most significant strength lies in his ability to create opportunities for his teammates through skilled passing. I am eagerly looking forward to witnessing his skills in action while wearing a purple jersey.

3. Jordan Clayton

Jordan, a 6'2" guard, possesses the necessary skills to fit perfectly into the 1-2 role for the team. It is expected that Strauss or Clayton will step up and take charge of the offense, relieving Buie for a brief 5-minute break. However, if neither of them, as freshmen, demonstrate this ability, we may need to rely on one of our returning players to fill in this crucial position.
In his high school last year, Jordan showcased his talent by averaging an impressive 12 points, 5.0 assists, and 4.0 rebounds. His outstanding performance led to his recognition as a member of the All-NEPSAC Class AA team. His coach admired his defensive prowess, considering him capable of competing at the highest level. Moreover, Jordan's coach had nothing but praise for him as an individual, emphasizing his admirable character off the court. I am eagerly looking forward to witnessing his skills in action while wearing a purple jersey.

4. Justin Mullins
32 GP 29.1 MPG 9.8 PPG 3.1 RPG 1.1 APG

Standing at a height of either 6'6" or 6'4", Mullins seems like a perfect fit for the 2-4 position on the cat's team. Last year, as a freshman, Justin started in 27 games, showcasing his defensive skills and impressive scoring ability in transition. He possesses a great deal of athleticism and demonstrates a decent three-point shooting ability, with a success rate of 36.5% from deep. We are yet to determine how well he will adapt offensively in half-court situations. Nonetheless, Mullins, as a sophomore, presents an intriguing prospect for the cat's team, considering his athletic prowess and vast potential that could prove vital in the future. I eagerly anticipate witnessing this individual in purple attire.

5. Blake Preston
35 GP 17.3 MPG 6.7 PPG 5.1 RPG 1.4 APG

Preston is expected to do fine in a defensive role as a backup center. In terms of offense, one should not anticipate a high volume of scoring, but he has displayed efficiency with his opportunities at Liberty University. Particularly in pick and roll situations, Preston's skills align well with Northwestern University's offensive strategy, especially with Buie leading the way. As a freshman, he showcased considerable promise, although his playing time became limited at Liberty. However, it is worth mentioning that free throws have been a challenge for him. Multiple sources indicate that Preston brings a positive influence to the team dynamics, both with his experience and attitude. Consequently, he is a valuable addition as a backup center. If he can replicate or even approach the level of defense that Tydus provided, it would be an outstanding acquisition. Blake is a mobile big man who can effectively move away from the paint, set screens, and score off those screens. This presents an offensive improvement in the backup center position. I eagerly anticipate seeing this individual donning the purple uniform.

6. Ryan Langborg
32 GP 31.3 MPG 12.7 PPG 3.1 RPG 1.6 APG

Ryan has the ability to play in multiple positions and could potentially take over as the offensive initiator when Buie is given a rest. Last season, Ryan was the second highest scorer on Princeton's team and ranked 12th in scoring within the Ivy League. His exceptional performance in the NCAA tournament demonstrated his skills as a scorer and what he can contribute to his team, the Cats, in the upcoming year. One much-needed asset that Ryan brings to the team is his ability to shoot from beyond the arc, as he successfully made at least one three-pointer in 30 out of 32 games last season. It will be intriguing to observe how he adapts to the offensive and defensive challenges of B1G play in the upcoming season. I am eagerly anticipating the sight of this talented player in purple attire.

 

[ThatkidfromHolland]

Returning

1. Luke Hunger
6 GP 6.5 MPG 2.7 PPG 1.3 RPG 0.7 APG

Hunger is a promising player who is expected to be a backup 5. Despite limited playing time, Hunger has already demonstrated his potential with his impressive size and shooting abilities. However, there are areas he needs to work on, particularly his defensive positioning, strength in the post, and ability to work effectively within the team's offensive system. As a freshman, Hunger's first season was unfortunately cut short due to an injury. During his appearances, he appeared to be struggling to keep up with the game's speed. It is unlikely that Hunger will receive significant playing time, especially since there are two more experienced players ahead of him in the center position. However, if Hunger does manage to earn some minutes, it would be a remarkable achievement and a sign of his accelerated development. It is important to note that Hunger is still young and, historically, big players tend to require more time to fully develop their skills. Nevertheless, I am excited to witness the trajectory of this young man's career and see where he will be in the next 2-3 years.

2. Nick Martinelli
20 GP 9.9 MPG 2.6 PPG 1.5 RPG 0.3 APG

Nick is set to assume the role of backup 4 this year. He showcased his ability to perform under pressure last season, fearlessly confronting the spotlight. On the other hand, Martinelli displayed some promising skills, but he still has a long way to go in terms of development. His defensive abilities are hindered by a lack of foot speed, footwork, and strength. Additionally, he relies heavily on his left hand to score. To improve, Martinelli needs to focus on playing within the offensive flow and learn from the freshman mistakes he made last season. However, he does have a natural talent for grabbing offensive rebounds and possesses a commendable touch with his left hand. It also seems that he has a reliable three-point shot, although we have yet to see how consistent he can be as he progresses and assumes a larger role on the team. Notably, he demonstrates a high level of energy and determination. The transition from freshman to sophomore year is often when players make the most significant improvements, and Martinelli certainly rose to the occasion when there was an injury to Roper, giving his all. It is undeniably challenging for a freshman to step into such a prominent role, but Martinelli managed to do so.

3. Matt Nicholson
34 GP 21.0 MPG 6.3 PPG 5.4 RPG 1.2 APG

Matt will be starting at the 5 this season. Nicholson has significantly increased his muscle mass during his tenure in Evanston. His positioning on both defense and offense is highly impressive. Matt excels as a strong post defender. Northwestern's doubling efforts perfectly complement Matt's position and wingspan. These strategies are implemented to generate turnovers and prevent easy scoring opportunities near the basket. In terms of offense, Matt displays exceptional screening skills (although occasionally moves without getting called for it, but if it’s not called who cares). Additionally, he does a great job at shielding away the "extra" defender. Matt plays a crucial role in this team's defensive prowess. He possesses a deep understanding of their responsibilities and executes them flawlessly. Throughout their time here, Matt has experienced tremendous growth and development. However, he still encounters difficulties when it comes to finishing near the rim. Matt needs to replicate his successful performances against UCLA and provide scoring options beyond alley-oops this season.

4. Ty Berry
34 GP 28.3 MPG 8.5 PPG 4.8 RPG 1.1 APG

Ty will thrive in the 2-3 position this year. He possesses an impressively smooth jump shot that catches the eye. However, during the previous season, his shot did not always find the mark. Additionally, he lacked the ability to beat opponents off the dribble. In terms of consistency, Ty fell slightly short of our expectations. Nevertheless, he excels as a guard in the rebounding aspect of the game. His hands are exceptionally quick and he effectively disrupts passing lanes. Without a doubt, he is NU's top perimeter defender among the returning players. Keep an eye on Ty in the upcoming season, as he is poised to generate numerous steals for both himself and his teammates..

5. Brooks Barnhizer
34 GP 24.2 MPG 7.6 PPG 4.9 RPG 1.1 APG

Barnhizer is set to take on the starting position at the 4 this year. He appears ready to embrace a significant role in the upcoming season. In the previous year, Barnhizer excelled in all the minor details of the game and gradually displayed his scoring ability as the season unfolded. Not only does he possess excellent shooting skills, but his footwork and relentless hustle are also commendable. Defensively, he showcases remarkable agility and quick feet, allowing him to defend effectively. Brooks has the opportunity to become an outstanding player in the Big Ten Conference. He exhibits good core strength and adeptly maintains his position on the court. Furthermore, Barnhizer possesses the skill to create his own shot, adding another dimension to his game. It is my hope to witness his continued progress and witness the tremendous potential I believe he holds within him come to fruition.

6. Boo Buie
34 GP 34.9 MPG 17.3 PPG 3.4 RPG 4.5 APG

Buie, our starting point guard, served as the driving force behind the team's success, earning the well-deserved title of 1st team all B1G. With his handles, he can easily dismantle opposing players and is particularly lethal when driving to the basket with his dominant right hand. Additionally, Buie possesses exceptional shooting accuracy from beyond the arc, displaying an incredibly pure shot. His exceptional court vision and adept passing skills make him a highly skilled playmaker. As a perimeter defender, Buie is considered above average. However, it is crucial for him to improve his ability to drive using his non-dominant left hand, as well as enhance his shooting efficiency. Nevertheless, when his shots are not falling, Buie compensates by effectively drawing fouls and finding his way to the free throw line. He excels in free throw shooting. The success of the team heavily relies on Buie's performance, as he was the sole player capable of operating the offense at a high level in the previous season, establishing himself as the team's most outstanding player. It is a rare occurrence to witness a player like Buie in an NU uniform, as he possesses an unmatched ability to breakdown defenders off the dribble. I eagerly anticipate another season with Buie leading the team from the point guard position.

Total Returning
57.51% of min 61.72% of points 63.8% of rebounds 61.57% of assists

 

[ThatkidfromHolland]

Final Thoughts
The collective improvement of this team's offensive efficiency is crucial. Although Audige, who was a strong but inconsistent scorer, is no longer part of the team, the potential for offensive improvement lies in the growth of certain players and the new additions. It should be noted that this team will not replicate the same defensive prowess as last year, which was exemplified by the loss of the Defensive Player of the Year. However, the return of Big Matt and the presence of reliable perimeter defenders like Berry and Barnhizer will ensure that defense remains a strong point for this team. In order to compensate for this decline, the team must enhance their shooting capabilities this season. It was the team's solid defense that allowed them to remain competitive even when their shooting was subpar, enabling them to challenge any opponent. On paper, this team has the potential to compete in the B1G conference and make another deep postseason run. This team is reminiscent of the Collins era, where defense takes precedence. I am genuinely excited for the upcoming season. The previous season was exceptional and the most enjoyable team I have witnessed. Many key components of that team will return, although success cannot be guaranteed. Nevertheless, this upcoming season is bound to be thrilling. Let's aim for another successful season and a repeat trip to the postseason tournament. Go cats!

 

[lou v]

Outstanding stuff, TKFH!

 

[CoralSpringsCat]

Final Thoughts
The collective improvement of this team's offensive efficiency is crucial. Although Audige, who was a strong but inconsistent scorer, is no longer part of the team, the potential for offensive improvement lies in the growth of certain players and the new additions. It should be noted that this team will not replicate the same defensive prowess as last year, which was exemplified by the loss of the Defensive Player of the Year. However, the return of Big Matt and the presence of reliable perimeter defenders like Berry and Barnhizer will ensure that defense remains a strong point for this team. In order to compensate for this decline, the team must enhance their shooting capabilities this season. It was the team's solid defense that allowed them to remain competitive even when their shooting was subpar, enabling them to challenge any opponent. On paper, this team has the potential to compete in the B1G conference and make another deep postseason run. This team is reminiscent of the Collins era, where defense takes precedence. I am genuinely excited for the upcoming season. The previous season was exceptional and the most enjoyable team I have witnessed. Many key components of that team will return, although success cannot be guaranteed. Nevertheless, this upcoming season is bound to be thrilling. Let's aim for another successful season and a repeat trip to the postseason tournament. Go cats!

Bravo! The season can’t start soon enough. Sweet 16 or bust!!

 

[Gladeskat]

Nice review!

 

[GatoLouco]

Well done TKFH

 

[Hungry Jack]

The Kid From Holland might be The Man from Elysian Fields after that masterpiece

 

[SmellyCat]

2. Parker Strauss

During his time in High School, Parker showcased exceptional statistics, averaging 11.3 points, 7.1 rebounds, 5.0 assists, and 2.8 steals per game. He is known for his outstanding versatility as a guard, possessing a combination of height and unique abilities. According to his high school coach, Parker's most significant strength lies in his ability to create opportunities for his teammates through skilled passing. I am eagerly looking forward to witnessing his skills in action while wearing a purple jersey.

First off, thanks for all the great posts about the team TKFH. Loved reading it and I'm excited!

Second of all, I'm intrigued by the 7.1 rpg figure for Strauss last year. I haven't watched his highlights or know much about him, but do you think this is a case of just a D-1 player playing against kids, or can he a be plus rebounder from the 1 when he gets going in the Big 10? I love seeing a point guard who can rebound too.

 

[Purple Pile Driver]

Great stuff kid. I believe if we are to reach similar heights as last season it will be because of internal improvement from the likes of Brooks, Ty and Big Matt. I think Hunger has a chance to contribute by the time conference play rolls around. Excited to see newcomers but IMO our losses exceed our additions by a pretty large margin.

 

[ballerog711]

Saw and interesting post from Rothstein.

Team was 11-3 when Ty scored double figures. 11-9 when he did not not. His shot looked better in the clips NU shared, maybe ready for a big year.

Having RyBorg should help with shooting and spreading the floor, giving Boo more space to operate.

Last year the defense had to be spot on all the time as they had trouble scoring. Hopefully, they can score more and take some pressure of the defense with the loss of Audige.

 

[SmellyCat]

Having RyBorg should help with shooting and spreading the floor, giving Boo more space to operate.

RyBorg? Is that what we're going with this year? I can do that.

 

[GatoLouco]

RyBorg? Is that what we're going with this year? I can do that.

It does have an intriguing sound to it

 

[hollandnucat]

Nice job Kid. Someone must have taught you well on basketball. Agree with most of your thoughts.

 

[IGNORE2]

Great stuff kid. I believe if we are to reach similar heights as last season it will be because of internal improvement from the likes of Brooks, Ty and Big Matt. I think Hunger has a chance to contribute by the time conference play rolls around. Excited to see newcomers but IMO our losses exceed our additions by a pretty large margin.

You are getting old when you start calling other men ‘kid.’

 

[IGNORE2]

Nice job Kid. Someone must have taught you well on basketball. Agree with most of your thoughts.

Seriously - what’s with all the kid stuff. Dude is not in college. Grown arse man… you old farts!

Now get off my lawn!

 

[thewildcat2011]

Seriously - what’s with all the kid stuff. Dude is not in college. Grown arse man… you old farts!

Now get off my lawn!

His handle is ThatkidfromHolland

 

[hollandnucat]

Seriously - what’s with all the kid stuff. Dude is not in college. Grown arse man… you old farts!

Now get off my lawn!

First his handle starts with Kid. 2nd I am his elder so he will always be kid to me...trust me I am not being disrespectful...would almost like being disrespectful to myself.

 

[ThatkidfromHolland]

His handle is ThatkidfromHolland

I did make the handle in high school. Maybe I aged out?

 

[ThatkidfromHolland]

Seriously - what’s with all the kid stuff. Dude is not in college. Grown arse man… you old farts!

Now get off my lawn!

HollandNUcat has earned the right to call me kid the rest of my life.

 

[Purple Pile Driver]

First his handle starts with Kid. 2nd I am his elder so he will always be kid to me...trust me I am not being disrespectful...would almost like being disrespectful to myself.

Kid did an excellent analysis.

 

[IGNORE2]

His handle is ThatkidfromHolland

Fair point.

 

[IGNORE2]

First his handle starts with Kid. 2nd I am his elder so he will always be kid to me...trust me I am not being disrespectful...would almost like being disrespectful to myself.

I jest. Y’all take this stuff too seriously. It’s not like this is a rant board where we discuss life and death matters.

 

[IGNORE2]

Kid did an excellent analysis.

Oh ppd

 

[macarthur31]

Additions

1. Blake Barkley

Blake, standing at a height of 6'8", appears to be a suitable candidate for the 3-4 position on NU's team for the upcoming season. However, being a freshman, it is unlikely that he will receive significant playing time, as the 4 position is already occupied by Barnhizer. If Blake does manage to earn some minutes on the court, it would be a pleasing surprise. Generally, I have low expectations for freshmen players, but am pleasantly surprised when they display talent and contribute to the team. It is worth noting that Barkley received the prestigious OVAC First Team All-Conference honors during his high school career. Notably, he maintained an impressive average of 13.5 points and 8.2 rebounds per game in the highly competitive ADIDAS 3SSB circuit. With his notable shooting skills and strong rebounding abilities, Barkley holds the potential to become an intriguing player for the team in the future. PSA head coach Tom Espinosa had high praise for Barkley, describing him as a versatile player who possesses exceptional shooting abilities and an aptitude for dominating the boards. I eagerly anticipate witnessing Barkley's contribution to the team's success, as he dons the purple jersey.

2. Parker Strauss

Parker is a highly skilled guard standing at an impressive height of 6'4". He is expected to contribute effectively in the 1-2 positions for the team. We are hopeful that either Strauss or Clayton would be capable of handling the offense and allowing Buie to take a short break for about 5 minutes. However, if these freshmen players lack the necessary skills, we may need to consider one of our returning players for this role.
During his time in High School, Parker showcased exceptional statistics, averaging 11.3 points, 7.1 rebounds, 5.0 assists, and 2.8 steals per game. He is known for his outstanding versatility as a guard, possessing a combination of height and unique abilities. According to his high school coach, Parker's most significant strength lies in his ability to create opportunities for his teammates through skilled passing. I am eagerly looking forward to witnessing his skills in action while wearing a purple jersey.

3. Jordan Clayton

Jordan, a 6'2" guard, possesses the necessary skills to fit perfectly into the 1-2 role for the team. It is expected that Strauss or Clayton will step up and take charge of the offense, relieving Buie for a brief 5-minute break. However, if neither of them, as freshmen, demonstrate this ability, we may need to rely on one of our returning players to fill in this crucial position.
In his high school last year, Jordan showcased his talent by averaging an impressive 12 points, 5.0 assists, and 4.0 rebounds. His outstanding performance led to his recognition as a member of the All-NEPSAC Class AA team. His coach admired his defensive prowess, considering him capable of competing at the highest level. Moreover, Jordan's coach had nothing but praise for him as an individual, emphasizing his admirable character off the court. I am eagerly looking forward to witnessing his skills in action while wearing a purple jersey.

4. Justin Mullins
32 GP 29.1 MPG 9.8 PPG 3.1 RPG 1.1 APG

Standing at a height of either 6'6" or 6'4", Mullins seems like a perfect fit for the 2-4 position on the cat's team. Last year, as a freshman, Justin started in 27 games, showcasing his defensive skills and impressive scoring ability in transition. He possesses a great deal of athleticism and demonstrates a decent three-point shooting ability, with a success rate of 36.5% from deep. We are yet to determine how well he will adapt offensively in half-court situations. Nonetheless, Mullins, as a sophomore, presents an intriguing prospect for the cat's team, considering his athletic prowess and vast potential that could prove vital in the future. I eagerly anticipate witnessing this individual in purple attire.

5. Blake Preston
35 GP 17.3 MPG 6.7 PPG 5.1 RPG 1.4 APG

Preston is expected to do fine in a defensive role as a backup center. In terms of offense, one should not anticipate a high volume of scoring, but he has displayed efficiency with his opportunities at Liberty University. Particularly in pick and roll situations, Preston's skills align well with Northwestern University's offensive strategy, especially with Buie leading the way. As a freshman, he showcased considerable promise, although his playing time became limited at Liberty. However, it is worth mentioning that free throws have been a challenge for him. Multiple sources indicate that Preston brings a positive influence to the team dynamics, both with his experience and attitude. Consequently, he is a valuable addition as a backup center. If he can replicate or even approach the level of defense that Tydus provided, it would be an outstanding acquisition. Blake is a mobile big man who can effectively move away from the paint, set screens, and score off those screens. This presents an offensive improvement in the backup center position. I eagerly anticipate seeing this individual donning the purple uniform.

6. Ryan Langborg
32 GP 31.3 MPG 12.7 PPG 3.1 RPG 1.6 APG

Ryan has the ability to play in multiple positions and could potentially take over as the offensive initiator when Buie is given a rest. Last season, Ryan was the second highest scorer on Princeton's team and ranked 12th in scoring within the Ivy League. His exceptional performance in the NCAA tournament demonstrated his skills as a scorer and what he can contribute to his team, the Cats, in the upcoming year. One much-needed asset that Ryan brings to the team is his ability to shoot from beyond the arc, as he successfully made at least one three-pointer in 30 out of 32 games last season. It will be intriguing to observe how he adapts to the offensive and defensive challenges of B1G play in the upcoming season. I am eagerly anticipating the sight of this talented player in purple attire.

Overall, nice work on the writeup! I generally am aligned with your takes. I like that Barkley put in solid work in a pretty challenging prep league. However, given he likely plays the PF position, I'm a bit more pessimistic on his ability to contribute this year given he still needs to build up his strength to be B1G ready. I also intuit he plays with a bit of an edge, which I'm intrigued to see how that manifests itself on the court.

With regards to Strauss - while he was the focal point of his team's offense, and a prolific scorer (which bodes well for his creativity), he did play in a smaller enrollment division, so I'm not totally sure if that was the toughest competition. (Contrast that to Barkley who appeared to change schools to play in a more challenging environment.) Add to that he's still young and slighter build, I'm hoping he'll continue to fill out.

I'm really excited about Langborg, and hoping this isn't Ryan Taylor redux (sharpshooter transfer who just couldn't make it happen), but of course his NCAA Tourney performances should allay any concerns of him being strictly mid-major.

I'm cautiously optimistic on Justin Mullins - I love his toolset, and hope he gets creates havoc in the 2nd unit as a high motor defender/slasher.

 

[PurpleWhiteBoy]

Great stuff kid. I believe if we are to reach similar heights as last season it will be because of internal improvement from the likes of Brooks, Ty and Big Matt. I think Hunger has a chance to contribute by the time conference play rolls around. Excited to see newcomers but IMO our losses exceed our additions by a pretty large margin.

If you are talking strictly about the departing talent vs the arriving talent...

I think Roper will be a good player and it is disappointing that he left NU.
However, he did almost nothing for NU last year due to injury.
Losing him is losing unrealized upside (compared to last year).
Preston will be as good or perhaps better than Verhoeven.
Langborg is probably better than Beran overall.
That leaves Audige vs Mullins, Strauss, Barkley and Clayton. Hopefully by January it isn't as lopsided as it seems now, having seen none of the new guys.

Obviously I agree with you that there are several players on the team who will contribute more than they did last year. Barnhizer has not started a single college game. Martinelli has played 200 minutes. Hunger has played 37 minutes. All 3 of those guys are capable of being Big Ten starters or better. Nicholson has 25 career starts and played his best game against our best opponent on the biggest stage of the season.

Surely the offense will be tweaked to create better opportunities for everybody on the court. including the centers.
Replacing the reluctant Beran and inefficient Audige will result in more points for NU.
And our opponents.

 

[ThatkidfromHolland]

If you are talking strictly about the departing talent vs the arriving talent...

I think Roper will be a good player and it is disappointing that he left NU.
However, he did almost nothing for NU last year due to injury.
Losing him is losing unrealized upside (compared to last year).
Preston will be as good or perhaps better than Verhoeven.
Langborg is probably better than Beran overall.
That leaves Audige vs Mullins, Strauss, Barkley and Clayton. Hopefully by January it isn't as lopsided as it seems now, having seen none of the new guys.

Obviously I agree with you that there are several players on the team who will contribute more than they did last year. Barnhizer has not started a single college game. Martinelli has played 200 minutes. Hunger has played 37 minutes. All 3 of those guys are capable of being Big Ten starters or better. Nicholson has 25 career starts and played his best game against our best opponent on the biggest stage of the season.

Surely the offense will be tweaked to create better opportunities for everybody on the court. including the centers.
Replacing the reluctant Beran and inefficient Audige will result in more points for NU.
And our opponents.

Despite the departure of Audige, the offense is expected to improve. This improvement is not a result of his absence. Audige possesses a great deal of talent and skill. As the second-leading scorer from last year, his contributions were invaluable. In fact, he was the only player, alongside Buie, who consistently scored in double digits. While he may not have always been highly efficient, Audige had the ability to ignite the team and allowed NU to compete with any opponent. Even when he wasn't scoring, he remained a threat, forcing opposing teams to plan their defense around him and Buie. Admittedly, his decision-making on offense could be frustrating at times, but his talent was undeniable. It would be a mistake to underestimate the impact of losing him. In fact, his departure is a significant blow, as he was arguably the best defender in the entire nation last year. Losing Audige is one of the biggest setbacks the team could have faced, second only to Buie leaving. On paper, NU may have lost more than it gained. However, there is hope that the returning players will develop enough to compensate for this loss, along with the contributions brought in by the new recruits and transfers.

NU has lost 42.49% of playing time, 38.28% of points, 36.2% of rebounds, and 38.43% of assists. That’s 97.5 minutes per game, 28.4 points per game, and 5.3 assists per game. These numbers will need to be replaced by three freshmen, two senior transfers, and one sophomore transfer. Only one of these transfers is expected to start. The transfers bring in 29.2 points per game and 4.1 assists per game. The 29.2 points per game was also not against B1G competition.

The addition of a proven deep threat and a more offensive oriented back up center will help NU improve offensively. These additions along with improvements from returning players should make this team more efficient offensively than last year.

 

[SmellyCat]

Watching the Purdue highlights yesterday, it was clear to me that Audige was the best player on the floor (yes, including Edey and Buie), even when he wasn't playing well. Then came that magical period at 55-47 when he made the three-pointer, got a steal/dunk, and then made that corner three off the short Barnhizer pass. He also missed a three not long after that might have literally torn the roof off the stadium if it had gone in. No matter how inefficient/frustrating he was at times last year, that sequence was unforgettable.

 

[SimpsonElmwood]

Mullins could be 6'5".

 

[Purple Pile Driver]

If you are talking strictly about the departing talent vs the arriving talent...

I think Roper will be a good player and it is disappointing that he left NU.
However, he did almost nothing for NU last year due to injury.
Losing him is losing unrealized upside (compared to last year).
Preston will be as good or perhaps better than Verhoeven.
Langborg is probably better than Beran overall.
That leaves Audige vs Mullins, Strauss, Barkley and Clayton. Hopefully by January it isn't as lopsided as it seems now, having seen none of the new guys.

Obviously I agree with you that there are several players on the team who will contribute more than they did last year. Barnhizer has not started a single college game. Martinelli has played 200 minutes. Hunger has played 37 minutes. All 3 of those guys are capable of being Big Ten starters or better. Nicholson has 25 career starts and played his best game against our best opponent on the biggest stage of the season.

Surely the offense will be tweaked to create better opportunities for everybody on the court. including the centers.
Replacing the reluctant Beran and inefficient Audige will result in more points for NU.
And our opponents.

I was primarily speaking of Audige. I think he held the team together on both ends of the court. Yes, including the offensive end where I think he was invaluable in spreading the floor and taking occasional pressure off of Boo with his calming demeanor when teams turned the pressure up on Boo. I have no idea if Mullins can be our poor man’s Chase, but his loss concerns me a lot. I don’t see a replacement for what he brought to the table.

 

[PurpleWhiteBoy]

Despite the departure of Audige, the offense is expected to improve. This improvement is not a result of his absence. Audige possesses a great deal of talent and skill. As the second-leading scorer from last year, his contributions were invaluable. In fact, he was the only player, alongside Buie, who consistently scored in double digits. While he may not have always been highly efficient, Audige had the ability to ignite the team and allowed NU to compete with any opponent. Even when he wasn't scoring, he remained a threat, forcing opposing teams to plan their defense around him and Buie. Admittedly, his decision-making on offense could be frustrating at times, but his talent was undeniable. It would be a mistake to underestimate the impact of losing him. In fact, his departure is a significant blow, as he was arguably the best defender in the entire nation last year. Losing Audige is one of the biggest setbacks the team could have faced, second only to Buie leaving. On paper, NU may have lost more than it gained. However, there is hope that the returning players will develop enough to compensate for this loss, along with the contributions brought in by the new recruits and transfers.

NU has lost 42.49% of playing time, 38.28% of points, 36.2% of rebounds, and 38.43% of assists. That’s 97.5 minutes per game, 28.4 points per game, and 5.3 assists per game. These numbers will need to be replaced by three freshmen, two senior transfers, and one sophomore transfer. Only one of these transfers is expected to start. The transfers bring in 29.2 points per game and 4.1 assists per game. The 29.2 points per game was also not against B1G competition.

The addition of a proven deep threat and a more offensive oriented back up center will help NU improve offensively. These additions along with improvements from returning players should make this team more efficient offensively than last year.

After Nance, Greer, Young, Simmons and Williams left the team in 2022, we had to replace 39.1% of the playing time. 44.7% of the rebounds and 39.8% of the points. (using conference games only) A transfer (Verhoeven) and a freshman (Martinelli) were the only new guys on the roster who got minutes Despite the lack of incoming talent, we improved. Nicholson and Barnhizer went from playing a total of 85 minutes that season to being two of our top four players last year. Buie and Audige improved and played heavier minutes.
So the task this year is similar to last year, except we have Martinelli and Hunger to step up (a la Nicholson and Barnhizer) and we have at least 2, possibly 3 transfers who will play. Clayton may contribute as a freshman.

I guess we just disagree on Audige. I'd take Barnhizer or Nicholson ahead of him if they all had one more year of eligibility. Audige hurt the team overall on offense, definitely helped on defense. Very difficult to net those things out.

Similarly, I'd take Martinelli over Beran going forward.

I'd take Audige over Berry.

I need to see what happens when Langborg joins the Cats against good competition to form an opinion on him. One thing that could happen is that Langborg (or Martinelli) is a defensive liability and that flatters both Audige and Beran defensively.

I guess we'll find out.

 

[eastbaycat99]

Watching the Purdue highlights yesterday, it was clear to me that Audige was the best player on the floor (yes, including Edey and Buie), even when he wasn't playing well. Then came that magical period at 55-47 when he made the three-pointer, got a steal/dunk, and then made that corner three off the short Barnhizer pass. He also missed a three not long after that might have literally torn the roof off the stadium if it had gone in. No matter how inefficient/frustrating he was at times last year, that sequence was unforgettable.

Audige’s physical talent glued the defense together: he cast a wide defensive halo and was very quick to fill a passing lane or strip the ball. The rest of the returning players will have more area to defend without him, and I don’t think any of the new players will fill that void. A lot of his most important scores, like the dunk cited here, started at the defensive end. I think the half court offense will be as good or a little better (I can hope) with the new players taking his minutes.

 

[Purple Pile Driver]

After Nance, Greer, Young, Simmons and Williams left the team in 2022, we had to replace 39.1% of the playing time. 44.7% of the rebounds and 39.8% of the points. (using conference games only) A transfer (Verhoeven) and a freshman (Martinelli) were the only new guys on the roster who got minutes Despite the lack of incoming talent, we improved. Nicholson and Barnhizer went from playing a total of 85 minutes that season to being two of our top four players last year. Buie and Audige improved and played heavier minutes.
So the task this year is similar to last year, except we have Martinelli and Hunger to step up (a la Nicholson and Barnhizer) and we have at least 2, possibly 3 transfers who will play. Clayton may contribute as a freshman.

I guess we just disagree on Audige. I'd take Barnhizer or Nicholson ahead of him if they all had one more year of eligibility. Audige hurt the team overall on offense, definitely helped on defense. Very difficult to net those things out.

Similarly, I'd take Martinelli over Beran going forward.

I'd take Audige over Berry.

I need to see what happens when Langborg joins the Cats against good competition to form an opinion on him. One thing that could happen is that Langborg (or Martinelli) is a defensive liability and that flatters both Audige and Beran defensively.

I guess we'll find out.

I am with the Kid (and many others) on this one PWB. Audige is a borderline NBA player. The deficiency in his shooting is brought up a lot, but I don’t see a real weakness in the rest of his game. I just don’t see anyone that is even close to what he brings to the defensive end returning and his maturity on seeing pretty much out there will not be replicated by Barney or Martinelli.

I do agree that we should have more options to make up for the loss. However, it might take the initial portion of the season to figure out that best combination.

Also, last season Beran was a good defender, Martinelli was not. That not to say Martinelli can’t be a good defender, just believe it is going to take some time. Big Matt will not be able to free lance as much on Defense next year without Beran. I can’t see our defense being as good as last year, the hope remains that Barney, Martinelli and Hunger advance like Big Matt did last year.

 

[PurpleWhiteBoy]

I am with the Kid (and many others) on this one PWB. Audige is a borderline NBA player. The deficiency in his shooting is brought up a lot, but I don’t see a real weakness in the rest of his game. I just don’t see anyone that is even close to what he brings to the defensive end returning and his maturity on seeing pretty much out there will not be replicated by Barney or Martinelli.

I do agree that we should have more options to make up for the loss. However, it might take the initial portion of the season to figure out that best combination.

Also, last season Beran was a good defender, Martinelli was not. That not to say Martinelli can’t be a good defender, just believe it is going to take some time. Big Matt will not be able to free lance as much on Defense next year without Beran. I can’t see our defense being as good as last year, the hope remains that Barney, Martinelli and Hunger advance like Big Matt did last year.

I think Beran was something of an enigma. He seemed to lose focus pretty often. Yes he was good at doubling after Nicholson completely stymied a guy in the low post. But he lost track of his guy regularly and got bullied in the low post by bigger guys. On the offensive end he was maddening - somewhat afraid to go inside - and his assist totals just scream "lack of court awareness."

Martinelli strikes me as the opposite on the offensive end. Crafty, aware, unafraid, with a nose for the ball. Awkward-looking but so what.

Defensively, he'll pick it up.

 

[Catreporter]

Audige also had the ability to create his own shot with the clock winding down and that will be missed. He often had to take some tough shots, which weighted down his shooting percentage, I would guess.

 

[Hungry Jack]

Watching the Purdue highlights yesterday, it was clear to me that Audige was the best player on the floor (yes, including Edey and Buie), even when he wasn't playing well. Then came that magical period at 55-47 when he made the three-pointer, got a steal/dunk, and then made that corner three off the short Barnhizer pass. He also missed a three not long after that might have literally torn the roof off the stadium if it had gone in. No matter how inefficient/frustrating he was at times last year, that sequence was unforgettable.

Those 4 minutes will be my enduring memory of Chase. I remember the look in the building engineer's eyes when he launched that 3 attempt. It was a look of utter terror--like he was being chased by a horde of Sasquatch.

 

[SmellyCat]

Those 4 minutes will be my enduring memory of Chase. I remember the look in the building engineer's eyes when he launched that 3 attempt. It was a look of utter terror--like he was being chased by a horde of Sasquatch.

I was watching the kid with the broom who sweeps up the sweat. He was jumping up and down while holding the broom - kind of a funny dance. I love watching great plays and then just focusing on a random fan. Tap-to-Pardon has some fantastic reaction shots.

 

[IGNORE2]

I am with the Kid (and many others) on this one PWB. Audige is a borderline NBA player. The deficiency in his shooting is brought up a lot, but I don’t see a real weakness in the rest of his game. I just don’t see anyone that is even close to what he brings to the defensive end returning and his maturity on seeing pretty much out there will not be replicated by Barney or Martinelli.

I do agree that we should have more options to make up for the loss. However, it might take the initial portion of the season to figure out that best combination.

Also, last season Beran was a good defender, Martinelli was not. That not to say Martinelli can’t be a good defender, just believe it is going to take some time. Big Matt will not be able to free lance as much on Defense next year without Beran. I can’t see our defense being as good as last year, the hope remains that Barney, Martinelli and Hunger advance like Big Matt did last year.

Seems like Beran’s minutes decreased substantially during the B1G season yet MNs defense did not diminish.