Most teams in the Atlantic 10 couldn't handle the loss of a
senior forward that averaged 16 points and 11 rebounds per game.
But Charlotte has all
the pieces for another postseason run. Bobby Lutz knows
that if his team can rebound and the incoming players impress,
this team can improve on last year's 19 win season that
culminated with a loss to Cincinnati in the NIT.
***
CHN: What
do you expect the strengths and weaknesses of
this year’s team to be?
BL: The
biggest question for 06-07 is rebounding. We should be a little
better offensively and defensively but Curtis Withers rebounded
the ball (4th in nation). We will once again be able
to utilize the 3 point shot extremely well and have more guys
capable of making them (averaged over 8 per game last season and
shot 37% from 3). We have better depth at every position except
center. That is the big question at this time along with
rebounding.
CHN: Talk for a moment about which of your guys deserve more credit for working
hard in practice, in the workout room, and being leaders off the
court:
BL:
Lee Goldwire is a tremendous leader on and off the court. He is
an extremely hard worker who has great balance in his life. He
carries over a 3.0 gpa and is married as well. Lee is very
mature and responsible and well respected by teammates, coaches,
students, and faculty. EJ Drayton has worked very hard in rehab
after missing last season. He would have made a big difference
in last year’s team and is important for the upcoming season.
CHN: Discuss the incoming guys for a bit. Who will make the
biggest impact?
BL: Carlos
Williams has a huge opportunity as an incoming point guard
(junior college recruit). We need him to make a quick
adjustment. Carlos is the best passer we have had in the
program in a number of years and can enable others to get easy
baskets. His ability to make the transition to high level D1
play is a key. Sean Phaler is a tremendous shooter and offensive
player. Ian Andersen is very underrated and reminds me of a
young Jobey Thomas (currently playing in Italian league),
Charles Dewhurst is an athletic wing and David Booker can
score. Any number of the new guys could have an impact but
Carlos is the key due to position.
CHN: How hard will it be to replace
the outgoing seniors? Who is ready to step up their game
instead?
BL:
We will miss
Curtis Withers (3 time 1st team all league player).
Marcus Bennett was a great scorer off the bench. We should be
ok as long as we address the rebounding and center position. De
Angelo Alexander was first team all A10 and Lee Goldwire was
honorable mention as a sophomore. EJ Drayton returns and we
have some new guys that should contribute.
CHN: What other coaches really helped you reach the level of
success you’re at now? How does their advice and teachings
still help you to this day?
BL: My high
school coach, Bill Bost, was the best at getting guys to play
together. Cliff Ellis taught me the value of changing defenses
to keep the opponent off balance and out of rhythm. Jeff Mullins
showed me the value of individual improvement. Melvin Watkins
was great at getting guys to buy into the team. All of the
above still helps me today.
CHN: What are your realistic goals and
hopes for this season?
BL: We always
strive for the NCAA tournament. We want to finish in the top
couple of the A10 which will be a challenge. We aspire to be
league champs every year.
CHN:
Thanks for your time Coach. Anything coming up this month?
BL: We have a week
of individual camp from July 30 – August 3rd ages
8-17 day or overnight camp. We also have a two day skills camp
on the 4th and 5th of August with a few
spots available. [Info on- line or at 704-687-4939.]
Thanks guys.
