NCAA Basketball: Biggest takeaways from 2019 Charleston Classic

NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE - MARCH 15: Andrew Nembhard #2 of the Florida Gators celebrates in the game against the LSU Tigers during the Quarterfinals of the SEC Basketball Tournament at Bridgestone Arena on March 15, 2019 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images) /

4 of 5

MIAMI, FLORIDA – NOVEMBER 05: Kameron McGusty #23 of the Miami Hurricanes reacts against the Louisville Cardinals during the first half at Watsco Center on November 05, 2019 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images) /

Miami – Hurricanes need more consistent production from Kameron McGusty

While most of the teams involved in the Charleston Classic came out being perceived better, the Hurricanes were a negative exception. After squeaking out against Missouri State, Miami fell by 20+ points to both Florida and UConn. For a team likely to be on the bubble, the 4-3 Hurricanes just haven’t looked the part overall.

The obvious issue is the lack of offense, with not just enough firepower to beat some of the better teams. Outside of Chris Lykes and Dejan Vasiljevic, Kameron McGusty is the only other double-digit playmaker capable of having an offensive impact. The Oklahoma transfer is averaging 13.3 ppg to start the season but has been hot and cold, scoring a combined 15 points on 5/20 in the two most recent defeats. If he doesn’t produce as a high level, Miami has little chance at winning.

UConn – Emergence of depth pivotal going forward

The Huskies were just a made shot away from making the finals but maybe were the biggest winner overall. After missing the first few games of the season, James Bouknight was fantastic for UConn. He averaged 13.3 ppg in the three games and going forward will be the first guard off the bench. Another reserve who played well was Brendan Adams, who along with Bouknight gives needed depth behind both Alterique Gilbert and Christian Vital.

The frontcourt depth also has looked vastly improved, led by big man Josh Carlton. If he continues to play at an All-Conference level, the Huskies will finally have the balance to unleash their offensive potential. Akok Akok and the sharpshooting Tyler Polley also did well in the Charleston Classic, giving head coach Dan Hurley a lot to work with the rest of the season.

Home/NCAA Basketball News