Rhode Island Basketball: Rhody Rams ready to return to Big Dance

4 of 4

Feb 27, 2016; Dayton, OH, USA; Rhode Island Rams guard Jarvis Garrett (1) looks on during a stop in play against the Dayton Flyers in the second half at the University of Dayton Arena. The Rams won 75-66. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports /

Is Jarvis Garrett ready to lead?

The one and only positive to last year’s injury riddled season: The development of point guard Jarvis Garrett.

More from Busting Brackets

Garrett recorded career highs in every major category in his sophomore campaign, as he averaged 12.5 points, 4.7 assists and 3.7 rebounds. He shot 42 percent from the field, 42 percent from three, and 70 percent from the free throw line.

The Milwaukee, WI native matured in year two by commanding the offense better, distributing the ball more effectively, and hitting his free throws down the stretch of games more often.

While Garrett did increase his turnovers (up to 2.4 from 1.4), that jump was in part because of his increased usage and the amount of time he had the ball in his hands.

Matthews and Garrett spilt the ball handling duties two years ago, but Matthews took the reins late in games in 2014-15.

Now, these two can be completely interchangeable (depending on match-ups) without any concerns or worries. Matthews can play off the ball, giving him a better angle to attack from the wing, and he can also play on the ball, giving Garrett the freedom to run off screens and stretch the floor because of his increased three point percentage.

Next: Top bigs for 2016-17

Ultimately, Garrett is one of the youngest players on the roster, but that doesn’t mean he doesn’t have the reins to lead the team at the point guard position.

Home/Atlantic 10