2007-08 Davidson Men's Basketball Season Preview
11/2/2007 3:47:22 PM | Men's Basketball
Written By: John Kilgo
This time last year, Davidson basketball could have passed the plate among its Southern Conference brethren and maybe come away with a sympathy card or two. Well, on second thought, maybe not. Still, Davidson had graduated seven seniors from the 2006 Southern Conference champions, a team that went on to lead Big Ten champion Ohio State at halftime in the NCAA tournament before losing a close game. Included among those seven seniors lost were the team's two leading scorers and its leader in assists.
Last year's Wildcats were picked to finish fourth in the SoCon South Division. There were no expectations for the team – except those held by coach Bob McKillop, his staff and players. They were not ready to surrender an inch. Not only were they not buying what the prognosticators were peddling, they turned it around and used it as motivation.
The Davidson basketball family adopted a one-word slogan before the start of last season, which was, “Surprise.” Led by three superb junior leaders, a sophomore defensive stopper, and a freshman sensation who would go on to become the conference's Rookie of the Year, the Wildcats won a school-record 29 games, swept through the conference regular season with a record of 17-1, and then dominated in the league tournament to win a second straight invitation to the NCAA tournament.
A Davidson team that was given no chance to hang a championship banner became even better than the excellent team of the season before.
It was a sweet season, all right. But it ended last March in snowy Buffalo. Underdog Davidson had powerful Maryland breaking out in cold sweats in the NCAA tournament. The Wildcats were up by eight in the second half, but the last three minutes of the game swung Maryland's way, and resulted in a Terps victory. It was a game Davidson thought it should have won. Should have finished the deal but didn't. Not long after the charter flight from Buffalo brought the coaches and team home, coaches and players started getting ready for this season. Sophomore Will Archambault has watched tape of the Maryland game 10 or 15 times. It's typical of the strong feeling the players have about that game. They want to learn from their mistakes. Getting to the NCAA tournament is great; getting there and winning some games is the goal.
While Davidson won't surprise anyone this season, or sneak up on any of the national powers on its schedule, opponents should not count on complacency setting in. It didn't happen in the off-season, and it won't happen during the season. That's a virtual guarantee. It's not to suggest that Davidson is a lock to win a certain number of games, or hang another championship banner in Belk Arena. Nothing like that. But any failure the team might have will not be brought on by complacency. Everyone connected with the program worked too hard and smart getting ready for the season to be complacent about anything.
“We respect every team on our schedule,” senior point guard Jason Richards said. “This season will have to stand on its own legs. Last season is over.”
The 2007-08 Wildcats return every scholarship player from last year's splendid team, plus three freshmen who one day will help McKillop win a lot more games as Davidson's head coach.
The three primary team leaders are seniors Thomas Sander, point guard Richards, and Boris Meno. The defensive stopper referred to above is junior Max Paulhus Gosselin. Last year's freshman star, Stephen Curry, is a little bigger, somewhat stronger, a touch quicker than last year.
The ingredients are there for a memorable season, even by the standards set my McKillop and his players. But there are questions, and the one that stands out most prominently is this: How will Davidson handle the pressure this season of playing as a marked team? The bull's-eye is painted brightly on the Davidson uniform jersey.
McKillop and his players refuse to try to silence the expectations or the basketball excitement that has swept the community and campus for months. Bring it on, they say, and let's see how we handle it.
“We worked hard to get in this position, one where we've received national recognition,” Thomas Sander said. “There's no reason for us to feel pressure.”
That's the approach that Davidson took into the campaign. Not cocky, not in the least. Not complacent, not a chance. Confident and maybe a little bit sassy? Why not? They've earned that, too.
The Backcourt
Hubert Davis, a former star at North Carolina and a 12-year NBA veteran who is now an ESPN commentator, observed two Davidson practices in October and said he believed the backcourt duo of Richards and Curry ranks among the best in college basketball.
“Jason reshaped his body during the off-season with hard work and dedication,” Coach McKillop said. “He is determined to make this his best Davidson season.”
The more you see Richards play, the more you appreciate his game. “I watched Jason play and practice his first three years here,” said Davidson freshman guard Brendan McKillop, “but you really don't know how good he is until you get on the court with him. His court vision is extraordinary.”
Richards was one of the best point guards in the nation last year in his assist to error ratio. He is quicker and stronger than last season. He dropped 10 pounds of body weight but added muscle and strength with his off-season regimen. He is poised and experienced, and knows when to push it and when to slow down a gear.
“He has an incredible feel for the game,” Coach McKillop said, “and is a superb leader for our team.”
Steph Curry will have a hard time improving on his spectacular freshman season. But don't be surprised if he does. He had a great summer of basketball, including playing for the USA-under 19 team in the World Championships held in Novi Sad, Serbia. He came to preseason practice in top shape, and his attitude signaled a determination that he's far from satisfied about his own play or his team's.
Curry has won national attention for his exciting play as well as his fearlessness. He also won a lofty compliment from Coach McKillop, who says, “Steph is already the overall most talented player that I've coached at Davidson. He has uncanny ability that ranges far beyond his basketball skills and athleticism. His extremely high basketball IQ gives him the rare combination of having great skills, athleticism and high intelligence. He is fearless, confident, and humble. He is the perfect fit for Davidson basketball and the kind of program we desire. He is a model of excellence.”
Max Paulhus Gosselin, now a junior, has improved to the point that he's developed into a confident team leader, a young man who doesn't hesitate to call himself a defensive stopper.
“Max keeps getting better because of his passion for excellence,” McKillop said. “His high energy will be a catalyst for our defense, rebounding and running. He's an extremely versatile player who has made himself technically better.”
Will Archambault, a sophomore, has the size, strength and offensive versatility to be a special player. McKillop is counting on as much. “He is the most gifted physical talent that we have on the team,” the coach said. “We expect him to be able to score inside and outside, and his skills should help him generate points on the glass, in transition, and create offense from his defense.”
Sophomore Bryant Barr suffered a bout of mononucleosis in August. It slowed some of his preseason work, but McKillop said it was a temporary setback. “Bryant, through his hard work and dedication, has made great progress in his athleticism, strength and overall confidence. His quick feet will assist him in becoming a good defender, and his ability to knock down shots will make opponents go out and guard him.”
Can Civi, a hardworking, tough junior, is a player that “burns with desire,” according to McKillop. “His work ethic certainly gets the coaching staff's attention,” McKillop said. “His challenge is to be able to quarterback the team within our system, and set the tone for our defense from his point guard position.”
Freshman Brendan McKillop, the coach's son, has observed Davidson basketball all his life. “I'm very impressed with the consistency of his shot,” his coach said. “He's learning the role of quarterback while learning a new system. He's a quick learner who will improve as he learns our system and it becomes second nature to him.”
Freshman Aaron Bond was hurt for much of preseason practice, but Coach McKillop says of him: “I'm impressed with his shooting, knack for scoring, and quick feet that should enable him to be a solid defender.” Bond is a versatile player who will continue to improve as he learns Davidson's way of playing.
The Frontcourt
McKillop calls senior Thomas Sander “The General” because of his toughness and superb leadership skills. “He is the anchor of our post,” the coach said. “He has quick feet, a high basketball IQ, and his toughness and determination make him an excellent rebounder and defender. He was extremely well coached in high school, and he brought those traits with him to Davidson and improved on them.”
Sander can score in transition, step out and here the 3-point basket, and trigger the fast break with his defensive rebounding.
Boris Meno, another senior frontcourt player, wins praise from his coach because of his physical ability and his unselfish approach to helping his team win. “Boris is confident and ready,” McKillop said, “to make this his best year. His defensive versatility enables him to guard players inside and outside. He is an integral part of our senior leadership group.”
Steve Rossiter, a redshirt sophomore, is probably the most improved player on Davidson's team. “He's much quicker and active, and his basketball instincts are superb,” McKillop said. Always a player who cheered on his teammates from the bench, Rossiter is expected to get additional playing time this season. “He is emerging as one of our future leaders,” McKillop said.
Dan Nelms, sophomore, is just a step behind Rossiter for the most improved. His work ethic wins the respect of teammates and coaches. “Dan is willing to play any role on our team,” McKillop said. “He wants to be the very best that he can be. He is gaining confidence, and has a chance to be a significant factor for us this season.”
Andrew Lovedale, a junior, has gained much confidence. Davidson's radio announcer gave Lovedale the sobriquet of “The Big Cat” because of his strength, speed and determination. “Andrew understands our system better each day,” McKillop said. “He's a tenacious defender, an excellent rebounder, and will get points for us by the way he runs in transition. He realizes the strengths of his game and focuses on playing to those strengths.”
Ben Allison, a freshman from England, is an athletic player who works hard and loves basketball with a passion. “Ben's skills, athleticism and work ethic give him a real chance to make a significant contribution to our program,” McKillop said.
The Davidson Way
** One of the goals of this team is to improve the defense. McKillop thinks it should be accomplished because of the experience, additional physical strength, athleticism and versatility of his players. Max Paulhus Gosselin and Sander generate a lot of enthusiasm on the team for playing defense at a high standard.
** McKillop's teams love to play at a fast pace, to get the ball up and down the court with the fury of a perfect storm. But he has asked his players to improve in that area this season by playing at an even faster pace without deviating from the system or turning the ball over. “Our experience and talent should help us greatly in this area of play,” McKillop said.
** Point guard Richards puts it this way: “We need to treat each possession like it's gold.”
** McKillop and his associate head coach Matt Matheny have put together another challenging schedule. It will test the Wildcats the entire season. McKillop says this year's schedule is the most rigorous a team of his has faced. “Several of our opponents are nationally ranked,” he said. “They have won national championships. Can we play against teams this good and maintain our confidence throughout the season? The way we handle this will be one of the keys to our season.” For sure, the schedule will put the Wildcats where McKillop is most comfortable – on the Broadway stage.
** While Davidson is talented, deep and experienced, it will not achieve its goals if it maintains the status quo. All teams get better or go backwards. It's the nature of the athletic beast. “Can we improve, day to day and over the entire season?” McKillop asked. “We must improve on a daily basis to get to where we want to go.”
** This is McKillop's 19th Davidson team. It could be his best one. Could be. That decision is still out. If it turns out to be the case, it'll be because the journey was taken a step at a time, eyes on the target, and daily improvement becomes a reality.
McKillop, his coaches and players, all embrace the challenge. It's post time in the village.
Last year's Wildcats were picked to finish fourth in the SoCon South Division. There were no expectations for the team – except those held by coach Bob McKillop, his staff and players. They were not ready to surrender an inch. Not only were they not buying what the prognosticators were peddling, they turned it around and used it as motivation.
The Davidson basketball family adopted a one-word slogan before the start of last season, which was, “Surprise.” Led by three superb junior leaders, a sophomore defensive stopper, and a freshman sensation who would go on to become the conference's Rookie of the Year, the Wildcats won a school-record 29 games, swept through the conference regular season with a record of 17-1, and then dominated in the league tournament to win a second straight invitation to the NCAA tournament.
A Davidson team that was given no chance to hang a championship banner became even better than the excellent team of the season before.
It was a sweet season, all right. But it ended last March in snowy Buffalo. Underdog Davidson had powerful Maryland breaking out in cold sweats in the NCAA tournament. The Wildcats were up by eight in the second half, but the last three minutes of the game swung Maryland's way, and resulted in a Terps victory. It was a game Davidson thought it should have won. Should have finished the deal but didn't. Not long after the charter flight from Buffalo brought the coaches and team home, coaches and players started getting ready for this season. Sophomore Will Archambault has watched tape of the Maryland game 10 or 15 times. It's typical of the strong feeling the players have about that game. They want to learn from their mistakes. Getting to the NCAA tournament is great; getting there and winning some games is the goal.
While Davidson won't surprise anyone this season, or sneak up on any of the national powers on its schedule, opponents should not count on complacency setting in. It didn't happen in the off-season, and it won't happen during the season. That's a virtual guarantee. It's not to suggest that Davidson is a lock to win a certain number of games, or hang another championship banner in Belk Arena. Nothing like that. But any failure the team might have will not be brought on by complacency. Everyone connected with the program worked too hard and smart getting ready for the season to be complacent about anything.
“We respect every team on our schedule,” senior point guard Jason Richards said. “This season will have to stand on its own legs. Last season is over.”
The 2007-08 Wildcats return every scholarship player from last year's splendid team, plus three freshmen who one day will help McKillop win a lot more games as Davidson's head coach.
The three primary team leaders are seniors Thomas Sander, point guard Richards, and Boris Meno. The defensive stopper referred to above is junior Max Paulhus Gosselin. Last year's freshman star, Stephen Curry, is a little bigger, somewhat stronger, a touch quicker than last year.
The ingredients are there for a memorable season, even by the standards set my McKillop and his players. But there are questions, and the one that stands out most prominently is this: How will Davidson handle the pressure this season of playing as a marked team? The bull's-eye is painted brightly on the Davidson uniform jersey.
McKillop and his players refuse to try to silence the expectations or the basketball excitement that has swept the community and campus for months. Bring it on, they say, and let's see how we handle it.
“We worked hard to get in this position, one where we've received national recognition,” Thomas Sander said. “There's no reason for us to feel pressure.”
That's the approach that Davidson took into the campaign. Not cocky, not in the least. Not complacent, not a chance. Confident and maybe a little bit sassy? Why not? They've earned that, too.
The Backcourt
Hubert Davis, a former star at North Carolina and a 12-year NBA veteran who is now an ESPN commentator, observed two Davidson practices in October and said he believed the backcourt duo of Richards and Curry ranks among the best in college basketball.
“Jason reshaped his body during the off-season with hard work and dedication,” Coach McKillop said. “He is determined to make this his best Davidson season.”
The more you see Richards play, the more you appreciate his game. “I watched Jason play and practice his first three years here,” said Davidson freshman guard Brendan McKillop, “but you really don't know how good he is until you get on the court with him. His court vision is extraordinary.”
Richards was one of the best point guards in the nation last year in his assist to error ratio. He is quicker and stronger than last season. He dropped 10 pounds of body weight but added muscle and strength with his off-season regimen. He is poised and experienced, and knows when to push it and when to slow down a gear.
“He has an incredible feel for the game,” Coach McKillop said, “and is a superb leader for our team.”
Steph Curry will have a hard time improving on his spectacular freshman season. But don't be surprised if he does. He had a great summer of basketball, including playing for the USA-under 19 team in the World Championships held in Novi Sad, Serbia. He came to preseason practice in top shape, and his attitude signaled a determination that he's far from satisfied about his own play or his team's.
Curry has won national attention for his exciting play as well as his fearlessness. He also won a lofty compliment from Coach McKillop, who says, “Steph is already the overall most talented player that I've coached at Davidson. He has uncanny ability that ranges far beyond his basketball skills and athleticism. His extremely high basketball IQ gives him the rare combination of having great skills, athleticism and high intelligence. He is fearless, confident, and humble. He is the perfect fit for Davidson basketball and the kind of program we desire. He is a model of excellence.”
Max Paulhus Gosselin, now a junior, has improved to the point that he's developed into a confident team leader, a young man who doesn't hesitate to call himself a defensive stopper.
“Max keeps getting better because of his passion for excellence,” McKillop said. “His high energy will be a catalyst for our defense, rebounding and running. He's an extremely versatile player who has made himself technically better.”
Will Archambault, a sophomore, has the size, strength and offensive versatility to be a special player. McKillop is counting on as much. “He is the most gifted physical talent that we have on the team,” the coach said. “We expect him to be able to score inside and outside, and his skills should help him generate points on the glass, in transition, and create offense from his defense.”
Sophomore Bryant Barr suffered a bout of mononucleosis in August. It slowed some of his preseason work, but McKillop said it was a temporary setback. “Bryant, through his hard work and dedication, has made great progress in his athleticism, strength and overall confidence. His quick feet will assist him in becoming a good defender, and his ability to knock down shots will make opponents go out and guard him.”
Can Civi, a hardworking, tough junior, is a player that “burns with desire,” according to McKillop. “His work ethic certainly gets the coaching staff's attention,” McKillop said. “His challenge is to be able to quarterback the team within our system, and set the tone for our defense from his point guard position.”
Freshman Brendan McKillop, the coach's son, has observed Davidson basketball all his life. “I'm very impressed with the consistency of his shot,” his coach said. “He's learning the role of quarterback while learning a new system. He's a quick learner who will improve as he learns our system and it becomes second nature to him.”
Freshman Aaron Bond was hurt for much of preseason practice, but Coach McKillop says of him: “I'm impressed with his shooting, knack for scoring, and quick feet that should enable him to be a solid defender.” Bond is a versatile player who will continue to improve as he learns Davidson's way of playing.
The Frontcourt
McKillop calls senior Thomas Sander “The General” because of his toughness and superb leadership skills. “He is the anchor of our post,” the coach said. “He has quick feet, a high basketball IQ, and his toughness and determination make him an excellent rebounder and defender. He was extremely well coached in high school, and he brought those traits with him to Davidson and improved on them.”
Sander can score in transition, step out and here the 3-point basket, and trigger the fast break with his defensive rebounding.
Boris Meno, another senior frontcourt player, wins praise from his coach because of his physical ability and his unselfish approach to helping his team win. “Boris is confident and ready,” McKillop said, “to make this his best year. His defensive versatility enables him to guard players inside and outside. He is an integral part of our senior leadership group.”
Steve Rossiter, a redshirt sophomore, is probably the most improved player on Davidson's team. “He's much quicker and active, and his basketball instincts are superb,” McKillop said. Always a player who cheered on his teammates from the bench, Rossiter is expected to get additional playing time this season. “He is emerging as one of our future leaders,” McKillop said.
Dan Nelms, sophomore, is just a step behind Rossiter for the most improved. His work ethic wins the respect of teammates and coaches. “Dan is willing to play any role on our team,” McKillop said. “He wants to be the very best that he can be. He is gaining confidence, and has a chance to be a significant factor for us this season.”
Andrew Lovedale, a junior, has gained much confidence. Davidson's radio announcer gave Lovedale the sobriquet of “The Big Cat” because of his strength, speed and determination. “Andrew understands our system better each day,” McKillop said. “He's a tenacious defender, an excellent rebounder, and will get points for us by the way he runs in transition. He realizes the strengths of his game and focuses on playing to those strengths.”
Ben Allison, a freshman from England, is an athletic player who works hard and loves basketball with a passion. “Ben's skills, athleticism and work ethic give him a real chance to make a significant contribution to our program,” McKillop said.
The Davidson Way
** One of the goals of this team is to improve the defense. McKillop thinks it should be accomplished because of the experience, additional physical strength, athleticism and versatility of his players. Max Paulhus Gosselin and Sander generate a lot of enthusiasm on the team for playing defense at a high standard.
** McKillop's teams love to play at a fast pace, to get the ball up and down the court with the fury of a perfect storm. But he has asked his players to improve in that area this season by playing at an even faster pace without deviating from the system or turning the ball over. “Our experience and talent should help us greatly in this area of play,” McKillop said.
** Point guard Richards puts it this way: “We need to treat each possession like it's gold.”
** McKillop and his associate head coach Matt Matheny have put together another challenging schedule. It will test the Wildcats the entire season. McKillop says this year's schedule is the most rigorous a team of his has faced. “Several of our opponents are nationally ranked,” he said. “They have won national championships. Can we play against teams this good and maintain our confidence throughout the season? The way we handle this will be one of the keys to our season.” For sure, the schedule will put the Wildcats where McKillop is most comfortable – on the Broadway stage.
** While Davidson is talented, deep and experienced, it will not achieve its goals if it maintains the status quo. All teams get better or go backwards. It's the nature of the athletic beast. “Can we improve, day to day and over the entire season?” McKillop asked. “We must improve on a daily basis to get to where we want to go.”
** This is McKillop's 19th Davidson team. It could be his best one. Could be. That decision is still out. If it turns out to be the case, it'll be because the journey was taken a step at a time, eyes on the target, and daily improvement becomes a reality.
McKillop, his coaches and players, all embrace the challenge. It's post time in the village.
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