Sun Belt Basketball: UT-Arlington Mavericks 2020-21 season preview

A look at the remainder of UT-Arlington’s rotation

Junior F Jordan Phillips

The transfer from Arkansas came in and is now expected to be the full-time starter. After playing in just seven games in Fayetteville as a freshman, he transferred back nearby to play in 32 games and start 21 with UTA. The Fort Worth native out of Cedar Hill HS averaged 6.4 points and 3.5 rebounds per game.

Phillips is a decent ball-handler and doesn’t give up the ball too often, as he had just 40 turnovers last year. However, there is a lot to be desired in terms of his consistency on offense. The junior shot just 29% from beyond the arc and was almost 33% from the field.

There were games, where Phillips broke out and showed his promise. In a winning effort against UT-Dallas, Phillips scored 17 points on 5/8 shooting from the field. Against Little Rock, Phillips also had an efficient performance, finishing with 18 points, four assists, and shooting 55% from the field.

It’s those performances that have hopes high for Phillips. However, last season there were more dud performances than the ones displayed previously. Phillips keeps the consistency, he could become a mainstay in the lineup and a threat with the ball in his hands.

Sophomore F Kaodirichi Akobundu-Ehiogu

As did quite a bit of this roster, Ehiogu is a transfer from Southwestern Assemblies of God in Waxahachie, TX. He was used occasionally and was primarily known for his defense near the rim. Near the end of the season, he suffered a fracture in his foot that would sideline him for the season.

With the team’s lack of depth and experience at the Forward position, Ehiogu should have a chance to log some solid minutes. Although a very raw prospect, his build is what could get him going. Standing at 6-9, 190 lbs., adding some weight is definitely going to be in the cards for him.

However, there could be some growing pains, but his shot-blocking down low, alongside an offensive hoping to improve should fit him in as a rotation piece for the Mavericks.

Sophomore G Nicholas Elame

The sophomore out of Paris, France did the majority of his damage during the back half of the season. He was a starter early in the season as a freshman but went cold throughout the season. He came back later in the year and averaged 9.3 points over the last three games.

Elame is an above-average defender and can rebound at a decent rate. However, his lack of game experience throughout the middle of the season is going to hurt his chances of being a main contributor. Adding Wells doesn’t help his case as his role might have dwindled. However, Elame is still a solid player and brings good height to the lineup at 6-3.

Freshman F Tre Jones

The star from Kennedale, Jones had a magnificent high school career at the 4A level. He was voted MVP of his district and an All-State selection. He averaged 17 points, 13 rebounds, 3 blocks, and 2.6 steals per game.

Standing at 6’5, I expect Jones to receive significant playing time early. With his height and ability to play well on both ends, gives him a rare trait, not many on the team have.

After redshirting last season, Jones is hoping to make the jump to the college level become smooth. Don’t be surprised if Jones starts a few games as he is expected to receive quite a few minutes this season with the Mavericks.

One notable player to keep an eye on in playing is Brandyn Talbot. Talbot could be a guy that ends up redshirting, but he is another dynamic three-point shooter, something the team lacks in some areas.

Talbot shot 44% in high school from 3-point range and played some of the best schools in the country in Canada.