Nobody discounts our guards, hell heading into the season and even halfway into this season it was all about the 3 starting guards led by Clayton, with Aberdeen showing he is a legit SEC starting level player as well. The bigs were noted more for defense/rebounding and just having that depth (the 4 man rotation). I think when Haugh had that recent breakout and Handlogten came back it brought attention to the incredible depth and that we have some offensive skill there too.
My background under arms informs my bedrock belief that focusing on any individual diminishes both them and the rest of the unit. They are not playing one-on-one out there. Every thing we see from one person is influenced by others away from the ball. When all play with wholehearted devotion to the TEAM outcome, they are hard to beat, as we are seeing. Walter is demonstrating such character in how he is facing his "slump", drawing disproportionate attention from the opponent creating opportunity for others to get the attention. (I say 'slump' sarcastically) Aberdeen coming off the bench and playing a key role during a short stretch is not seen in a stat line but was felt by the TEAM. Condon using his absence to get better as a player is another sign of dedication to the TEAM over himself.
The best play he had, to me, was that ridiculous block on Nelson then instantly gathering the ball, turning up court, and firing a pass ahead to Richards for the dunk. A lot of guys would be standing around after the block. No, he turned it immediately into 2 points the other way. Spectacular play.
He is a 1st round pick currently this year, but will be a lottery pick next year He can make some money in NIL for another year here and then really upgrade his professional earnings next year
Shout out to Condon, great game in Tuscaloosa. You and Tommy Haugh shooting the threes were a delight to the Gator Nation. Keep getting better and enjoy UF while you are getting ready for the next level. Hope you and Tommy come back another year and become lottery picks. Go Gators.
Condon was an animal last night. Seemed to be making all the right moves and decisions. It’s great that we have a team where any given player can explode, while the others complement the play of the one who’s hot. Very high level basketball last night, and fun to watch.
Condon would have been a total stud in the old days of NBA basketball. Kind of McHale-lite in the half court and runs the floor like a James Worthy-lite. Beastly physical inside with really good post footwork. Great foot speed down the floor. While he might develop a three point shot from NBA range he isn't quite there yet. The NBA have evolved into a stretch four league in the half court. Everybody now wants the new Dirk and who wouldn't. Bonner made a lot of coin from the three point line. Maybe the game changes back again.
I think he’s as good from three as Horford was in college. Also, consider that basketball wasn’t his primary sport growing up. Alex’s ceiling is really high!
Starting to remind me a little of the 2004's when you couldn't figure out who the best player is. At different times I've thought it, Clayton, Martin, and Condon-and Tommy Haugh might end up being Condon's equal yet-
I think he already has. That being said, with the ability to take care of these guys as they should be, his relationship with Tommy H, and what we have coming back next year, I think Condon will be back. Wouldn't surprise me at all if this group won back to back Natty's.
I agree he reminds me of Noah too. Sure there are some key differences but I think their biggest strengths are exactly the same. Size + elite mobility/motor they are the perfect match.
