2. Graham Ike and Braden Huff vs Amari Williams
Butler isn’t the only former Conference DPOY that joined Kentucky this offseason. Williams, a 6’10 big man from Drexel, won the top defensive award in the CAA twice and is one of the more athletic bigs in the country. He’s had a nice start as the team’s starting center, averaging 9.9 ppg and 10.1 rpg, along with two blocks per game.
Outside of Auburn and maybe Duke, Gonzaga’s center rotation is unmatched, with Ike and Huff combining to average 27.3 ppg and 10.1 rpg in 40 mpg. Ike is a physical post-scorer who almost always needs a double inside, while Huff leads the team with 58% shooting and can stretch the floor with his three-point shot.
As potent as this pair can be, they can get into foul trouble. Ike may be too physical and rack up fouls, but being a potential defensive liability could also be an issue against Williams. He’s both physical as well and a good enough athlete to play out on the perimeter, making him one of the few bigs who can matchup up with both Gonzaga centers.
OK State transfer Brandon Garrison is the backup big man, and he’s a downgrade from Williams, so if Gonzaga can get the starter in foul trouble, that could have a big impact on their ability to get east buckets inside.