Bob Cousy Watch List Released: Two WCC PG’s Make It
By Josh Horton
Mar 23, 2013; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Gonzaga Bulldogs guard Kevin Pangos (4) yells out to his teammates in the first half of the game against the Wichita State Shockers during the third round of the NCAA basketball tournament at EnergySolutions Arena. Mandatory Credit: Steve Dykes-USA TODAY Sports
With the large number of stellar point guards in the WCC, it is a surprise that only two players made the Bob Cousy watch list, an award that commemorates the best point guard in college basketball. Per the awards website, “The selection criteria emphasizes leadership, team work, success, and fundamentals as being critical parts for the game of basketball as a point guard.” Both candidates that hail from the WCC embody this description set out by the selection committee, and their names are listed as a result.
Kevin Pangos and Anthony Ireland have both been added to the 45 player Cousy watch list, which was announced this morning. Although there are some outstanding candidates on this list, both Pangos and Ireland have legitimate chances of winning the award, and here is why:
Scoring Ability
Yes, a point guard is expected to distribute and act as a floor general. However, what is one thing that not all point guards excel at? Scoring.
Since the awards conception in 2004, only 2 players (Illinois point guard Dee Brown and former North Carolina point guard Kendall Marshall) have averaged less than 15.0 points and won the award. With Pangos three-point shooting and driving abilities, and Irelands overall knack for scoring the basketball, both of these players are capable of putting up big scoring numbers.
Increased Role
To be fair, Ireland has always played an integral part in the LMU offense but with Ashley Hamilton gone, it will be further increased. If Ireland delivers an off-year, this season could be catastrophic for the Lions. That is the type of impact he has on LMU.
Pangos, who has always been surrounded with talent, is going to asked to do a lot more this season. In his sophomore year, Kelly Olynyk and Elias Harris ran the show. This year it will primarily be the backcourt that is looked upon to lead the Bulldogs. Pangos certainly will be the center of attention this season in Spokane, and his production is imperative for any success at Gonzaga this season.
The Snubs
With every award list, there are always some snubs. There are several WCC point guards that could make a serious claim to be on the Bob Cousy watch list. The following players are potential snubs from the list:
Evan Roquemore: A player with great court vision and leadership. Will be asked to do more this season with Trasolini and Foster gone.
Cody Doolin: Someone who just gets it. Not the most dynamic player but does a little of everything. Great leader.
Christopher Anderson: He may be 5-7, but Anderson can ball. He makes the exciting play, but is rarely out of control.
Matt Carlino: Although he is grilled by the BYU fanbase for his shortcomings every so often, his talent is undeniable. Playmaker.
Stephen Holt: Holt, who has never been a true point guard, will likely be asked to step into that position this season. Fantastic scorer and capable passer.