last issue, Voice Sports graded this year’s men’s basketball starters on their season’s performance. This week, we’re subjecting the rest of the team to the same treatment. Here goes.
Nat Burton: The senior small forward’s buzzer-beating layup was a perfect way to end his four years with the Hoyas. Burton is one of the best defenders on the team and, like Demetrius Hunter, is one of the best perimeter defenders in the conference. Burton is also a good rebounder, especially considering his lack of height (6’4”). On offense, Burton led the team in field-goal percentage.
Though he played less and didn’t pile up statistics, Burton made a major impact with his brain and leadership skills this year. His offensive discipline, including only four 3-point attempts, set an example and encouraged his teammates to sacrifice their statistics for the good of the team as well. Burton also has a good sense for knowing when the Hoyas need to slow down their pace and when they need a jolt of energy. Overall, he’s been rock solid. Grade: A
Anthony Perry: Perry bounced back after a horrible junior season and provided the Hoyas with solid all-around guard play. After regaining some confidence, he accepted his reserve role and scored in double figures on several occasions. Although he’s a reserve, Perry’s game is very well-rounded. He’s a great shooter, handles the ball well, rebounds effectively, grabs a lot of steals and can fill in at point guard when necessary. He was particularly important in the team’s road win against Rutgers, after starter Hunter went down with an injury a minute into the game. Grade: B
Lee Scruggs: Unlike last season, Scruggs never recovered after missing the first semester of play due to academic ineligibility. Part of Scruggs’ problem was the sensational play of rookie Mike Sweetney, which prevented him from seeing much time on the floor.
However, Scruggs contributed to his own problems by focusing too much on his perimeter offense. On many occasions, he settled for outside shots instead of using his 6’11” frame inside the paint. Defensively, he did a good job blocking shots and rebounding, but his one-on-one defense was poor. He allowed heavier players to back him down and quicker players to blow past him on the perimeter. Grade: C-
Victor Samnick: Samnick always plays with a 300 percent energy level. As a result, he’s an excellent rebounder, great defender and makes some awesome plays on offense. Unfortunately, he gets a little too excited, resulting in turnovers, wild misses and fouls. If he learns to eliminate the mistakes and maintain his high energy level, Samnick has the skills to become a very good college forward. Grade: B
Trenton Hillier: Hillier never adequately established himself as the team’s backup point guard. For a player with very little scoring ability, he makes too many mistakes on offense. His speed allows him to be an effective part of Georgetown’s full court press. Grade: C
Courtland Freeman: Freeman has never been able to live up to his immense potential because of injuries. Since he is stuck behind Sweetney at power forward, he will make a great back up once he is healthy. Grade: Incomplete
Wesley Wilson: Wilson took advantage of Ruben Boumtje Boumtje’s mid-season slump and showed flashes of a great future. Unfortunately, he didn’t take his game to the next level?the consistent level. He’s a great shot blocker, and he has an excellent shooting touch. In addition, he has a great mixture of bulk and quickness. His strength prevents him from being overpowered and his speed will eventually make him a versatile defender. Grade: B+
Ramell Ross: Ross has plenty of athleticism and, at 6’4”, is relatively tall for a guard. He didn’t get much action this year, but with Perry’s departure, he’ll have plenty of opportunities next season. Grade: Incomplete
Omari Faulkner: Faulkner barely played this season. Grade: Incomplete
Football Guys: Gharun Hester, Dave Paulus and O.J. Johnson didn’t play much but it’s still cool they’re on the team.
Craig Esherick: When the team does well, the Coach gets a good grade. There are a few things to question, but Esherick is restoring the Georgetown tradition as fast as anyone could have expected. Grade: A
