I'm a little bit surprised with the posts I saw. Thomas did fine. He was often matched up with Stauskas who was the 2nd best player on the court today (after Ejim). I could see Stauskas eventually being first team all Big10, if not this year then next. Loved his game! I've been impressed with Thomas's physicality overall.
Niang is the troubling person. Even when he came in game after long rests he lumbers, and does not get in a defensive stance. So when the ball gets swung to his man his first move is to crouch into position, then his second move is to move laterally (if the player drives). He picks up so many fouls for this. I know Fred runs a largely positive coaching style, but I wouldn't be surprised if he unleashes Doc on Niang. I am really worried about Niang being able to eventually guard and rebound for his position. Up to this point he can't and he gets too many props for the fanbase. I think he may be who he is from day 1 through his senior year, aka Bret Meyer (who like Georges I like, and root for, but he obviously did not develop into a late round NFL draft pick that many thought after his freshman season).
Ejim is the absolute man, and I said it from day 1, he's the star of the team, not Niang, and will end up battling Perry Ellis for 1st team all conference. Thank goodness he played in this game or we would have been killed on the glass. Hogue's rebounding is also a great sign.
Kane's controlled body drives were Baron Davis like at times. Fantastic. When he plays too fast he seems to make more mistakes. He's one of the guys where I almost don't want him barreling in on a fast break, but love his drives within the offensive set.
