Head coach Mike Woodson, Trayce Jackson-Davis, Rob Phinisee, and Race Thompson all answered questions prior to their international trip to the Bahamas where they will play in two exhibition games against BC Mega.
Woodson, who spoke first, made it clear that the focus for the last month and a half has been on the defensive side of the ball.
“We’ll be tested. I’m anxious to see where we are from a defensive standpoint,” Woodson said about their upcoming exhibition games. “We’ve still got a long way to go. The positive behind the month and a half is they’re starting to pick up things I’m throwing at them.”
Woodson had positive things to say about nearly the entire roster. Commenting on the improvement of both Jackson-Davis and Phinisee, claiming the senior point guard has, “stood a bit out in terms of being more relaxed and comfortable.”
The former IU star turned head coach had many things to say about the incoming transfers and freshman who have yet to play a game for the Cream and Crimson and did not hold back as to what he wants to see from them.
“He’s (Xavier Johnson) a point guard which is what I believe is one of the most important roles on a team,” Woodson said. “I’ve probably been on his ass more than anybody on the team.”
When speaking on freshman Tamar Bates, Woodson said, “Young Tamar Bates is a typical freshman. The good thing is he’s put on about 12 pounds since joining. He’s a cocky kid who’s not scared, and I like that.”
