Cougs have weaknesses

Some weeks back when the national college basketball rankings first came out and had the Cougars fourth in the nation, I couldn’t believe it.

Not only was it difficult not to smile, it was difficult not to laugh. In talking to a friend who is knowledgeable in sports, I told him I thought the Cougars would have to play very well to end up fourth in the Pac-10.

I have played and coached sports for more than 50 years. That includes basketball at most levels. I have established my own “ranking” system. I am sure you could find fault with it.

Allow me to give you some opinions/rankings on the Cougars:

Big men – Can’t compete with any of the other big men in the Pac-10 on a game-to-game basis, let alone in the nation.

Kyle Weaver – The only real Pac-10 player. Very good.

Derrick Low – Too inconsistent. Can be stopped/slowed with a good defensive scheme. It’s been done. Hot and cold shooter.

Taylor Rochestie – All left hand. Watch him close. He rarely goes to his right. When he does, he usually stops after a dribble or two and either reverses his dribble or passes off. No threat to his right. If I were the opposing coach, I would play him a half body width to his left and force him to go right. Good shooter but reasonable defense can slow him noticeably.

I don’t mean, or want, to alienate any of my Cougar friends. I just have to call them as I see them.

William J. Hiatt

Spokane