Richmond Basketball: 2021-22 season preview for the Spiders
Projected Starting Lineup
Chris Mooney brings back everyone besides leading scorer, Blake Francis. Richmond should put out a nearly identical lineup to last year, replacing Francis with a healthy Nick Sherod.
Point Guard – Jacob Gilyard
2020-21: 12.3 Ppg, 5.0 Apg, 3.5 Spg
The soon-to-be NCAA all-time steals leader will make you think twice about putting the ball on the floor. The 5’9 dynamo is one of the most exciting players to watch in all of college basketball, with his quick first step and pesky full-court defense. His shooting numbers dropped last year (41% FG, 33% 3pt), but he should get them back to his career averages of around 46% FG and 37% 3pt with a full offseason. Gilyard might have to take on a little bit more of the scoring load early on in the season with Francis gone, and Sherod adjusting back to the speed of the college game.
Shooting Guard – Nick Sherod
2019-20: 12.7 Ppg, 5.4 Rpg, 43.8% 3pt
Nick Sherod is back. After the second ACL tear of his college career and contemplating calling his Spiders’ career quits, the 6th year super senior is suiting up for one last ride. I don’t know if he will be a Day 1 starter as the latest news is that he is still limited, but he should be a starter before conference play.
The graduate student will bring two things the Spiders lacked last season in elite three-point shooting and size at the guard position. The 6’4 220 pound Sherod is a career 39% three-point shooter and shot 43.8% two years ago to lead the conference. If he is able to represent anything close to his former self, Richmond will have another top backcourt in the A-10 this year.
Small Forward – Tyler Burton
2020-21: 12 Ppg, 7.6 Rpg, 36.3% 3pt
The youngest player to likely crack the Spiders’ rotation at age 21, Burton brings a lot to the table. The 6’7 Burton led the team in rebounds while also being one of their biggest threats on the perimeter. He can guard multiple positions and will have the keys to the team next year following the graduation of the class of 2016 and 2017 super seniors. Don’t be surprised if the most improved player in the A-10 last year ends up being the top scorer for the Spiders in 2021-22.
Power Forward – Nathan Cayo
2020-21: 12.2 Ppg, 4.4 Rpg, 51% Fg
The slashing forward is a great change of pace to the perimeter-oriented rest of the starting lineup. Another very switchable defender at Mooney’s disposal, Cayo along with Burton will be tasked with defending the opponent’s best 2, 3, and 4’s.
Cayo often uses his speed to get by opposing big men, utilizing tough angles to finish off the glass with his long arms. Last year he flashed some signs of a mid-range jumper, which gives me hope he will feel even more comfortable stepping out for this upcoming year.
Center – Grant Golden
2020-21: 12.7 Ppg, 6 Rpg, 3.5 Apg
The 3-time all A-10 selection is what makes this Chris Mooney offense work for Richmond. Standing 6’10 and 255 pounds, Golden is a gifted passer who relieves the Spiders’ guards of pressure at the top of the key. He is able to find cutters and work the pick and roll showcasing his nimbleness and soft hands.
Golden is willing to shoot the deep ball if given the opportunity, however, he thrives more in the pick and roll and finishes around the basket. You should see an even more aggressive version of Golden as he goes into his final year as a Spider.