Chippewas Unlikely To Repeat as MAC West Champs, Change Needed

A 75-49 loss to Detroit Mercy was tough, but a 3-point victory over Cornerstone University (a NAIA Division 2 school) may be even more embarrassing.

The CMU Men's Basketball team somehow managed two Mid-American West Division titles in three years despite average talent and mediocre results. This year the Chippewas don't look likely to make it a three-peat.

For starters, look at the starters and their points per game. Freshman guard Trey Zeigler, son of head coach Ernie Zeigler, and senior guard/forward Jalin Thomas lead the way with approximately 15 points per game. The next player on the list averages 9 points less per game. In the first dozen games Thomas and Zeigler combined for 370 points, while their counterparts only totaled 358 points.

Besides lack of scoring, the Chippewa's roster lacks depth, particularly at the post position. According to CMUChippewas.com, the team has only one true center (Freshman Nate VanArendonk) and one hybrid forward/center (senior William McClure). This lack of depth is particularly troubling given the foul trouble that tends to haunt McClure.

Granted, CMU Men's Basketball has never been (and probably will never be) an elite program like the Duke Universities and North Carolina's of the NCAA. However the lack of consistent production year to year in Mount Pleasant is troubling.

So what must be done to turn the ship around before the iceberg strikes?

First, the offense needs more motion. In the games against Hawaii and Detroit Mercy, the Chippewas faced a 2-3 zone and stumbled every time. A passive offense with a drive to the bucket may work against a man-to-man set, but against such a zone more motion is needed.

Second, the offense cannot be two men. Even if that means taking some shots away from Trey Zeigler. Yes, Zeigler is a very talented freshman and certainly capable of scoring. He has a bright future, but one man does not make a team. Pass the ball and get other guys going.

The lack of depth will require time to recruit bigger, more talented guys. To remedy the situation this year start junior forward Andre Coimbra (AKA the Brazilian Beast) at the center post. As of December 26th, Coimbra lead the team in blocks (16) and is third in rebounding (49). Only Thomas and Zeigler have higher rebound totals.

Rebuilding years are one thing. When you need a rebuilding year from the last rebuilding year that is a different animal entirely.

Statistics and photos provided by CMUChippewas.com.

Steven Ball is the author of "The Crystal Ball" weekly column syndicated on Facebook and the Bleacher Report. Like what you just read? Become a fan on Facebook here!

Source: http://bleacherreport.com/articles/554318-chippewas-unlikely-to-repeat-as-mac-west-champs-change-needed

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