Duke thoughts - post UIC
There's no question Shelden Williams has become a force this season - as evidenced by last night's 23 points, 14 rebounds and 7 blocks - but in truth, the Landlord hasn't exactly faced any fiesty tenants in the paint so far this season. The one fair physical matchup he's had thus far was Michigan State's Paul Davis, and in that game, Williams shot just 4-11 from the field and had five turnovers. He'll have to do better than that when he goes up against the likes of Sean May, Eric Williams, Luke Schenscher, etc. The Blue Devils need him to remain a reliable option down low ...
...Kudos to UIC coach Jimmy Collins for figuring out a way to criticize the referees without getting fined. "Playing here is intimidating for anybody,'' Collins said after the game. "I think the officials are intimidated in here." Collins then cracked a smile, letting us all know he was just kidding - sort of ... In a totally unrelated matter, the Flames were whistled for 22 fouls, while the Blue Devils were called for 16 ...
... It's been a Chicago lovefest in recent weeks for Sean Dockery, pride of Julian High. First, he got to go home and play in front of friends and family in the United Center. Then, he had a reunion with several old pals when UIC came to town. Dockery had known Flames center, Elliott Poole since they played on a 12-and-under AAU team together. Unfortunately for Poole, that means he'll have to endure some playful trash talk from Dockery the next time they meet - particulary after Poole had a dunk attempt blocked by 6-3 DeMarcus Nelson.
"I think I'll bring that up,'' Dockery said with a sly smile.
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