Oregon Basketball: 2017-18 season preview for the Ducks
Reserves
Abu Kigab– Kigab earned some recognition this summer for his strong performance for Canada in the U-19 tournament. The 6’6’’ freshman should play a consistent role off the bench and could even be the sixth man for Oregon. Kigab can shoot the ball from long range and can put the ball on the floor and attack the basket.
Roman Sorkin-Sorkin is a 6’10’’ senior who has barely played throughout his Oregon career. Despite his size, Sorkin is more comfortable away from the basket as a floor spacer and should help stretch the defense. The skilled center should earn consistent minutes for the first time in his career as a back-up to Paul White, but, similar to White, will struggle on the glass.
Keith Smith– Smith is one of the few returners from last season, but only saw sporadic playing time. Expect the 6’7’’ sophomore to play more consistently this season as he should see minutes at both forward positions. Smith averaged 1.9ppg in only 6.4mpg.
Victor Bailey– Bailey is a top 100 recruit who will have a chance to earn reserve minutes at both guard positions. The 6’4’’ lefty is an excellent shooter who can bring some offensive firepower off the bench. Expect Bailey to play regularly in a 10-12mpg role.
Kenny Wooten– Wooten is an under-the-radar freshman who has potential as a shot blocker and rim protector. While Wooten will not be able to replace the shot blocking production of Bell and Boucher, he seems to be the best shot blocker on the Oregon roster. Wooten should see a small consistent role off the bench this season but should be a solid long-term piece for the Ducks.
MJ Cage– Cage redshirted last season because of a preseason injury and because playing time would be scarce with Bell, Brooks, and Boucher seeing the bulk of the minutes at the four and five positions. It looked like Cage would have a chance to compete for a spot in the frontcourt rotation, but he is currently sitting out to weigh his future options. If Cage transfers, Oregon’s frontcourt will be a little thin, but the Ducks have alternatives with Wooten, White, and Sorkin.