“We’re very hopeful that [Keyatta] will continue to find that rhythm that he had, and when he plays like he did tonight…it changes our team.”
COLONEL SAUNDERS
Another game, another solid line for the ESPN preseason ranked 46th-best player in the nation. After recording 24 points and 12 boards in the loss at the TD Garden against Holy Cross, Saunders looked to involve his teammates more in this one.
That was especially key with Chambers struggling to find his shot for the second straight contest and buckets not falling from beyond 20 feet.
And while Saunders led the Crimson with 19 points on 11 shots, it was his six assists that caught the eye of Amaker and others on the team.
“[Wesley] has always been a tremendous passer,” Amaker said. “I’ve always thought that was the most underrated part of his game. He’s a dynamic passer…and he’s unselfish. Not only is he capable of making those passes and plays, but he’s willing.”
On four different occasions, Saunders attacked the basket, taking one or two Owl defenders with him, which resulted in open layups by Crimson teammates.
“[Wesley] is a very versatile player, and he can shoot the ball, get to the rim whenever he wants,” Smith said. “But whenever he’s able to…draw defensive pressure, it takes some guys off us, and so we always have to be ready for the open pass [from him].”