Louisville basketball: 4 bold predictions vs. Virginia Tech
By Jacob Lane
Goodbye, Steve
Alan Thomas: The Enochness Monster awakens
Perhaps the largest looming question mark on this year’s Louisville roster is big man Steven Enoch. The senior from Norwalk, CT has shown flashes of greatness in his time here at Louisville but has not lived up to the hype this season thus far.
Moreover, Enoch has recently been substituted in Chris Mack’s starting lineup for a budding Malik Williams, who has come on strong as of late. But I think the matchup Sunday will be a different tune entirely for the former UConn transfer.
In all likelihood, Mack will give Enoch the start vs Virginia Tech, a customary gesture for Senior Day. That being said, here are a couple of things you should know about Mike Young’s squad:
1) They rank 313th in the nation in offensive rebounds per game as a team. Big Steve should have plenty of space to operate on the glass, being that most team’s on Louisville’s schedule have sent re-enforcements to help counter the sheer size and brawn. The Hokies do not sell out for offensive rebounds at all, opening up a lion’s share of boards for him.
2) They are 282nd in turnovers forced. One common takeaway from Enoch’s struggles this season has been his inability to take care of the ball in the post. He likes to back defenders all the way down to the block, at which point many teams have sent help in an attempt to disrupt his mechanical rhythm. VT does not excel in help defense down low. Steve should be able to get the looks he desires without interruption.
3) The past five opposing big men have averaged 14 points and 7.4 rebounds vs Virginia Tech. Enoch should have the green light from Chris Mack, even in kick-out situations. If there was ever a game where Steven Enoch was going to become a black hole in the paint, it’s this one. Watch him feast and lick his fingers this Sunday.