Arizona Basketball: Sean Miller ready to conquer the 2019-20 season
By David Rosen
Arizona Basketball held their media day and Sean Miller provided his insights and thoughts for the season ahead.
Only a couple days away before Arizona Basketball fans finally get to see the team in action during the Red and Blue game. Before that happens, Sean Miller addressed the media and provided his preview of the exciting season ahead. From returning players to the new incoming class, transfer players, what it means to play in front of the greatest fans in the country, team chemistry and depth, individual player expectations, Miller covered the whole spectrum.
There were a lot of questions that could be answered, but also a lot that couldn’t because it’s hard to answer those questions before his team actually takes the court as one, not against one another. Miller, of course, opened up media day by giving his statement regarding the investigation and set the precedence not to ask any questions regarding it. The local media in attendance respected that, which is a breath of fresh air.
Several times throughout the press conference Miller talked about how special it is to play in front of 14,500 fans inside McKale Center. It truly is. I have been lucky enough to attend many games in person and even thinking about it, it gives me goosebumps. From a player’s perspective, stepping onto the court in front of the first time will be nothing like it. For those returning, they will get to continue enjoying the magic that McKale brings.
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He also talked about how there has been some great incoming freshman under him, Lauri Markkanen, Aaron Gordon and Deandre Ayton, each that have gone to be All-Star caliber players in the NBA. Miller also pays his respect, appreciation, and support that President Robbins and Dave Heeke have given him during these challenging times the Arizona Basketball program has faced.
Miller touched upon each of the incoming freshmen, the strengths they bring to this year’s roster and how special they. He pointed out how each was a champion in some form while playing high school basketball and how that will help them be prepared for what lies ahead this season.
Besides the incoming freshmen, Miller talks about how players such as Stone Gettings, Max Hazzard add depth, size, and strength to the team. Plus, he did mention there is a chance that Kentucky transfer Jemarl Baker might be eligible to play this year. That would be a huge addition to the roster. He did confirm that Jordan Brown confirm will be sitting out.
Let’s not forget Devonaire Doutrive. Miller said he could be the most improved player this upcoming season due to his increased body frame and his overall athleticism. With this year’s roster and the absence of Brandon Williams, Doutrive has a legit chance to get an increased amount of minutes and play a more signification role on.
Besides how the players perform on the court, how they perform and handle themselves is just as important. Miller talked briefly about the C.A.T.S. Life Skills Program, which helps them in developing those life skills and be a well-rounded student-athlete.
On the recruiting front, the reason why the Red and Blue game had been moved into September is to get those recruits to make official visits early in the fall recruiting season. Plus, it allows them to get a feel for what the city of Tucson and the Arizona Basketball program is all about during one of the most exciting basketball traditions.
Lastly, Miller talked about how the hire of assistant coach Jack Murphy came at the perfect time for this program. Plus he knows the city of Tucson and Arizona Basketball very well, which makes him a valuable asset to this program.
Here is the Arizona Basketball press conference for you to enjoy!
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At Zona Zealots, we’ve been patiently waiting for Arizona Basketball to start up again and finally, the time has arrived. Whether you’ll be in attendance for the Red and Blue game, or watching it from home, make sure you Get Up and Bear Down!