Just to cheer you up:
Next season, Virginia trades Mamadi Diakite and Braxton Key for Sam Hauser, Jabri Abdur-Rahim, Reece Beekman, Carson McCorkle, and Kadin Shedrick. In addition, returning players Francisco Caffaro, Casey Morsell, Kihei Clark, Jay Huff, and Justin McKoy will all have a year of experience under their belts.
These changes address the specific gaps we’ve seen this year: lack of experience, lack of depth, dearth of ballhandlers, and utter lack of three-point shooting.
Experience: the likely starting lineup next season will include fifth-year senior Jay Huff, junior Kihei Clark, sophomore Casey Morsell, fifth-year redshirt senior Sam Hauser, and freshman Jabri Abdur-Rahim. That looks like a Tony Bennett lineup: two guys in their fifth year, a junior who won a National Championship, a solid sophomore, and a superstar freshman. Problem solved.
Depth: This year, we have nine scholarship players. Next year, we’ll have twelve. Problem solved.
Ballhandlers: With just Kihei Clark to handle the ball, Virginia is forced to turn to walk-ons at the point. And Clark can’t risk foul trouble. Next year, the addition of Reece Beekman gives Bennett a two-headed monster. Problem solved.
Three Point Shooting: Virginia’s shooting woes are well-documented. Next year, Virginia brings in proven shooter Sam Hauser and promising newcomer Carson McCorkle. And Jabri Abdur-Rahim has had games where he’s made 10 three pointers. Problem solved.
So enjoy watching Virginia play this year secure in the knowledge that the future is very, very bright.
