Preseason Notebook: Gibbs-St. Pete
The final game of the preseason tip-off classic came between Gibbs and host St. Petersburg. Gibbs took a 29-28 advantage into the break, but the Green Devils finished them off in the second half, 73-62. Here are five things I…
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Continue ReadingThe final game of the preseason tip-off classic came between Gibbs and host St. Petersburg.
Gibbs took a 29-28 advantage into the break, but the Green Devils finished them off in the second half, 73-62.
Here are five things I took away from the preseason clash.
The Smith and Banks show
The two St. Pete starters dropped 31 points in the second half alone. Darius Banks and Serrel Smith each finished with 24 points.
Banks is a senior forward who has serious range and attacking ability. Smith plays with endless confidence and got it going as the game progressed inside and out.
Pierce is 100 percent healthy
It was great to see David Pierce back on the court. After tearing his right ACL in January, the Gibbs junior returned on Thursday night with a game-best 27 points.
He wore a brace on his right knee but had no issues at all. He knocked down 3’s and jumpers and attacked with his crafty set of moves. Pierce is a big-time player who will draw attention.
Gilliam can play
Gibbs has found a really solid point guard in freshman Frank Gilliam. He had 13 points and dished out assists time and time again.
Most importantly, Gibbs wasn’t afraid of contact taking charges and attacking the rim. It’s good to see the freshman put it all on the line.
Ford has length
A.J. Ford is a 6’8″ senior who committed to Richmond earlier this month. Ford had seven points in this game as fouls were an issue. His length really stands out and he uses it to his advantage throughout games. He can really wear down a defense.
St. Pete has great crowds
Even though it was a preseason game, no one cared especially the St. Pete fans. The earlier games had mixed crowds, people that came to see Tampa Catholic’s Kevin Knox and not much more. In the Gibbs-St. Pete matchup, the home team brought the noise and it was evident.