Pittsburgh Basketball: Takeaways from 2022-23 non-conference results

2. Blake Hinson is now the best player on the team

Pittsburgh Basketball brought in several newcomers this offseason through the transfer portal, including Hinson from Iowa State. The 6’7 forward hasn’t played in two years due to injuries and covid, last averaging 10.1 ppg and 4.6 rpg at Ole Miss in 2020. The hope was that the combo forward would give them an offensive boost and someone that can spread the flood. He had a couple of 30-point games in the preseason that showed the potential Hinson has.

The junior forward has easily been the best player for the Panthers, leading them in both scoring (16.5 ppg) and rebounding (6.9 rpg) while shooting 50% from the field and 37% from deep. Hinson has been in double figures in all but one game, including 22 points against Northwestern. He’s been a better rebounder and defender than expected and has played some small-ball five in games as well.

The only complaint about Hinson has been his propensity to get in foul trouble, having at least four fouls in six of 12 games. If Hugley remains a non-factor in the rotation, the Panthers will need him to stay on the court as much as possible to contend in the ACC.

3. Nelly Cummings has stabilized the backcourt

I’d note that senior guard Jamarius Burton has played quite well, second on the team with 14.9 ppg and 3.9 apg. He’s been the glue of sorts but has dealt with knee management issues, missing a couple of games. That’s put pressure on Nelly Cummings, the transfer from Colgate to solidify the backcourt at an ACC level. He’s had his ups and downs, especially at the start of the season.

While his shooting has been up and down, Cummings has not only been a consistent playmaker and passer but he’s also been scoring as of late, with three of his last five games going for at least 17 points. It can be tough for mid-major guards transferring up to produce but the senior guard has shown that he’s up for the task heading into ACC play.