Joseph Treutlein
Naadir Tharpe (#94 Scout, #91 Rivals, #73 ESPN) didn't have the greatest weekend here, not getting into the same rhythm as the last time we saw him, struggling to consistently manage his team's offense at times and having some troubles on the defensive end.
Offensively, Tharpe once again displayed his abilities as a distributor, namely showing off excellent abilities with his post entry passes while also making simple assists by finding open shooters in the halfcourt or passing ahead in transition. He showed off good ball-handling and vision throughout the week, though had some problems with turnovers and keeping his team's offense flowing smoothly at times.
As for his own offense, Tharpe did a good job finishing in the lane by displaying good body control and hitting lay-ups and floaters, though didn't have the same success with his perimeter jumper, something that appears to be streaky.
Defensively, Tharpe had major problems in the second game where he let his man blow past him a handful of times, looking overmatched physically and not showing the greatest lateral foot speed.
Tharpe may not be of the same quality of prospects that fans in Lawrence are typically used to seeing in a Kansas uniform, but he has all the makings of a solid college player. He's an unselfish point guard with a good feel for the game, and should develop into a solid rotation player for Bill Self, especially later on in his career.
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