Three keys to the season:
Rebounding. The Buffs won’t be big or burly. At the offensive end, rebounding can especially be a challenge in a Princeton-style offense. For CU, rebounding must be a team effort.
Outside shooting. In a new environment and with hands in their faces, true freshmen often struggle with their jumpers. “When we get open looks, we have to make our fair share,” Bzdelik said.
Limit turnovers. Bzdelik knows every possession will be critical.
Most improved part of team: Bzdelik said the chemistry that already has developed among his team “is pleasing and exciting.” It starts with 6-foot-2 freshman PG Nate Tomlinson, an Aussie who played high school in Maine. “He’s a pass-first point guard, who we have to tell to shoot,” Bzdelik said. “That’s contagious.”
Biggest surprise: Cory Higgins. Bzdelik thought the 6-5 guard might be the best player on the team anyway. “But he has really elevated his game,” the coach said. Higgins, son of former NBA player Rod Higgins, may be the best defensive player on the roster.
Who has taken ownership of the team? Tomlinson. His teammates already are saying he acts like a coach on the floor while directing traffic and distributing the ball. True point guards are hard to find. CU finally has one.
Game/stretch most worrisome: The coaches and players are sure to learn a lot about the team during the Nov. 29 road game against Stanford in the Big 12/Pac-10 Hardwood Series.
Roster adjustments: Junior forward Trent Beckley, a 6-9 former walk-on from Vail, will redshirt to heal a stress fracture in his lower back.
Coming out strong: As is the strategy with most coaches trying to instill confidence in a young team, Bzdelik lightened CU’s nonconference schedule. Before the start of Big 12 play in January, Stanford will be the only opponent from a “power conference” (BCS affiliation in football).
Tom Kensler, The Denver Post
