NEXT GAME
Who: University of Findlay at Dayton
When: 7 p.m. Saturday
Radio: WHIO-AM (1290), WHIO-FM (95.7)
Paul Williams has never needed much encouragement to uncork shots during a basketball game, but the University of Dayton junior guard intentionally chose not to assert himself offensively in a 77-66 exhibition win over Grand Valley State on Monday.
With the Flyers mostly wanting to evaluate the newcomers, Williams was content to take a passive role. His mindset will change, though, for the final dress rehearsal against Findlay on Saturday and when the real games begin Nov. 13.
“I was just trying to find my spot in the game and get a feel for it. I really wasn’t attacking like I normally would, doing what I’ve been working on in the offseason since May,” said Williams, who took just two shots and finished with three points. “Before Nov. 13 comes, I’ll do more of what I normally do. ... This Saturday, I’ll be way more aggressive.”
STATEN ON THE MOVE: Freshman point guard Juwan Staten has shown an ability to break down defenses with his dribble and create scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates, something UD hasn’t consistently had during coach Brian Gregory’s previous seven seasons.
“I’m just trying to make things happen for the team,” Staten said. “I know if I get into the paint, that makes everybody (on defense) have to come in because everyone wants to get the ball out of the paint. If I get into the paint, we have our main guys spotting up. I want to make the game as easy as possible for my teammates.”
FAB AT CENTER: The Flyers’ starting lineup had Staten and Williams at the guards, Chris Johnson on the wing, Chris Wright at power forward and Luke Fabrizius, subbing for the injured Devin Searcy (concussion), at center.
The 6-9 Fabrizius is more at home about 20 feet or more from the basket, but he held up well during his time in the post. UD will have some versatility there.
RAFFLE HELD: The UD-Xavier game Feb. 27 is sold out, but Flyer cheerleaders are raffling two floor seats with a $25 voucher to the concession stand to raise money for uniforms and travel. Raffle tickets are $2 apiece or six for $10 and are being sold by the cheerleaders at games.
For info, contact coach Christina Moore by email at imchristinamoore@aol .com.
Contact this reporter at (937) 225-2125 or dharris@DaytonDailyNews.com.
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