5. J’Vonne Hadley’s consistency continues from last season
Potentially the biggest returner from last season, Pat Kelsey recruited was J’Vonne Hadley. No matter the game last season, when the box score was released, Hadley’s stat line was at or near the double-double range. Hadley has officially picked up right where he left off last season, posting 13 points in the Kansas game and following up with an 11-point performance against Bucknell. Kelsey will need every bit of this leadership, especially in the interior, from Hadley as the team continues to improve their chemistry.
It’s anticipated that Hadley will retain the starting “4” position through the start of the season. Hadley will be the key to the offense in the early going, having been a key figure in the rotation last season for Coach Kelsey. His experience and leadership will be invaluable in the early stages, especially as the new team members find and assume their respective roles. The return of Kasean Pryor and anticipated rise of Khani Rooths will give Kelsey other options to help be the consistent returning piece for the Cardinals, but look to Hadley to be the needed constant in the stat category.