Player Spotlight: Jerome Dyson

The Good: Dyson was the second most consistent player for Uconn last season averaging nearly 14 points a game in 30.4 minutes. He was given the green light to shoot anywhere on the floor at anytime and he took advantage of that, launching NBA threes.

He had a great explosion off the ball and found creases in lanes, often getting himself to the line. In fact he got to the line more than any other player for Uconn, piling up 171 trips. His mixture of shooting and driving makes him the most complete offensive threat on the team.

On defense, Dyson showcased his incredible speed in batting the ball away from behind the play. He also cut into passing lanes and found a way to get his hand on the ball. He plays solid man to man but had a habit of running around screens than through them.

Pound for pound Dyson had the most toughness on the team, as epitomized by his playing through a broken tooth. He gave his body up by driving into crowds and getting pummeled by the trees inside.

The Bad: Dyson got to the line but failed to convert on many of those attempts, shooting just 71%. For a guard, he needs to bring the average to the mid 80’s. His 36% average from the field is not stellar and could be worked on. He often gave up drives for off balance shots or shots to deep.

Another problem that plagued Jerome was the fouls. He would commit early fouls that sat him out of the first half. He fouled out of the game 4 times, which is 3 more than anyone else. He needs to know how to play tough defense without fouling and how to get to know how the referees are calling the game.

Jerome loved the three ball shooting it 135 times and only knocking down 44. He needs to mix up his game a little more and find that mid-range jumper to add to his arsenal.

Dyson is the best defender of all Uconn’s guards. His speed is his best asset but he uses it as a crutch. He needs to keep defenders from the driving and dishing.

Overall: Dyson has the most potential to become an NBA player. He has the speed to play there now but lacks the consistent game. He needs to improve his free throws, shot selection and fouls. If Uconn is going to crawl out to of the Big East basement, it falls on the shoulders of this outstanding player.