Georgia Basketball starts with Belmont in the NIT
The Georgia Basketball team starts the NIT against Belmont on Wednesday. We dive into how the bulldogs might start their campaign:
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The Georgia Bulldogs basketball team was awarded the 2 seed in the Syracuse quadrant of the NIT. This is good news for Dawg fans because Georgia will possibly host a few more games at Stegeman Coliseum. The first team they will host is the 7 seeded Belmont Bruins.
By the Numbers
The 2 seed Georgia comes in the game with a 19-14 record. The Dawgs come in with a chip on their shoulder after blowing a few games early this season. If they hold on to those wins, Georgia is probably a high seed in the big dance. Georgia was eliminated by the Kentucky Wildcats in the SEC Tournament Quarterfinals. Georgia averages 72 points per game on 44% shooting. The Dawgs play stingy defense allowing only 70 points per game to their opponents.
The 7 seed Belmont Bruins come in a bit disappointed. The 22-6 Bruins, were the top seed in the Ohio Valley Conference Tournament but were upset in the Semifinals by Jacksonville State. Belmont crushed Jacksonville State both times in the regular season. They too will have a chip on their shoulder. This should shape up to be a good match up. Belmont scores 77 points per game on 47% shooting. Their defense only gives up 69 points per game.
Players to Watch
The two players to watch will be two seniors that do not want to see their seasons end Wednesday.
Senior guard J.J.Frazier is the one to watch for UGA. The 1st team all-SEC guard has been on a tear the past month. He has carried the Dawgs as far as he could. Frazier averages 18.5 points per game on 41% shooting. He has been clutch down the stretch. In late game situations, the ball is in his hands. Not to mention he hits 88% of his free throws.
Senior forward Evan Bradds is a 6’7 beast for Belmont. He almost averages a double-double as he scored 20.6 points and 8.6 rebounds a game. He could be a threat to UGA.
What’s at stake?
After a disappointing year, Georgia and particularly Coach Mark Fox need a good NIT. They have missed the NCAA bracket for 3 out of 4 years and after receiving a #2 seed, much is expected from them this year. With Yante Maten now back in the fold and J.J. Fraizer playing his final games for UGA, Georgia is expected to make noise this year. The fans and the team were disappointed with much of 2017, a deep run at least to the final 8 should be the very minimum for this team.
Milestone at stake for Coach Fox
With a win, Fox will have recorded a school record 4th consecutive 20 win season. This is definitely something to keep an eye on especially going into what could be a crucial yea for him in 2018.