Yale basketball: 2017-18 preview for the Bulldogs

Key Reserves

JR Alex Copeland

With Mason back and Oni sliding to the three, either Copeland or Phills had to become the sixth man. Even though Copeland tied with Oni in scoring, it makes sense having him coming off the bench. He has a bit more size to play and guard more positions and can play point if Mason needs to come out. While not a great shooter, his slashing ability is second to none, and his overall talents will be better served being the first guy off the bench.

SO Eric Monroe

As a freshman, Monroe only played about eight minutes a game but shot almost 50% from three in a small sample. The 6’2 guard will probably have to wait to have a bigger impact on the team.

SO Austin William

The 6’8 forward only played half of his team’s games last year, adding a couple of points.

SR Eric Anderson

The senior big man averaged a couple of rebounds in less than nine minutes a game. As one of only a couple of seniors on the team, he’ll be more of a vocal leader off the court.

FR Paul Atkinson

A top 300 freshman, Atkinson chose Yale over Atlantic Ten schools Dayton and Richmond. He’ll be looking to compete with the other reserves to see who’s the primary back up big.

Now, while this bench doesn’t appear to have too much depth, remember that both Copeland and Reynolds went from just averaging a couple of points, to double-digit scorers. Coach Jones has shown time and time again his ability to develop young players, so don’t be surprised to see a couple of these guys play well off the bench.