Louisville basketball: How the “Super Six” can impact the Cards going forward
Josh Nickelberry
What we’ve learned: One could argue that Josh Nickelberry is the Louisville freshman that we’ve learned the least about this season. Though he has seen action in 11 games, Nickelberry’s presence on the floor hasn’t been felt as much thus far.
One thing that you can take away, however, is that Nickelberry understands his role on this team. When he gets into the game, he hasn’t shown+96- off his scoring prowess quite yet, but he has been trustworthy with the ball in his hand.
Nickelberry has been used to spare a variety of Louisville backcourt players, and he has initiated the offense, swung the ball, and been where he is supposed to be on offense and defense.
In 51 minutes, Nickelberry has one assist and one turnover. Nothing to write home about, but the lack of turnovers and fouls committed indicates that he isn’t a liability when he’s on the floor. Given the depth that the Cardinals have, that’s all that you can really ask of him.
Looking ahead: Like Slazinski, unless there’s a serious injury, Nickelberry is unlikely to be called upon to play more than five minutes in a game the rest of the way.
Nickelberry needs to simply continue to be reliable as a ball-handler, take what the opposing defense gives to him and play within his game.
Long-term impact: Going forward for years to come, Nickelberry very well may be the leading scorer for a Louisville squad in the next three seasons.
Nickelberry is the second-highest scoring player in North Carolina high school basketball history for a reason, and once the roster turns over, he is going to have more than ample opportunity to show off his skill set.
In 2020-21, Nickelberry will likely share the backcourt with a senior Darius Perry, a sophomore Samuell Williamson, junior Jay Scrubb- who’s decision on whether or not to go pro, and, if he stays, where he will fit remains to be seen- and a sophomore David Johnson. That should mean a big-time role increase, and an opportunity to showcase what appears to be a special skillset on both ends of the floor.