Monthly Archives

November 2025

Bittle’s Huge Second Half Propels Oregon to Narrow Win Over Rice

by Carl Berman
written by Carl Berman

Eugene, OR – After barely squeaking out a victory in the season opener with Hawaii, Oregon cut down on turnovers while working past woeful shooting in defeating the Rice Owls, 67-63. After going into halftime down 32-27, 7’0” senior Nate Bittle was a dominant force on both ends of the floor putting up 18 points (4-6 FG, 1-2 3PT, 9-10 FT), 5 rebounds, and 5 blocked shots in the second half alone. He finished the game with 25 points, 8 rebounds, and 6 blocks, more than living up to his billing as a preseason All-Big Ten selection. His ability to roll and get position close to the basket were keys to his offensive explosion after halftime, while he provided verticality and had adept footwork protecting the rim.

While Bittle’s performance was the absolute bright spot in a game that saw Oregon shoot only 17-52 (32.7% FG), it also saw the return of fellow preseason All-Big Ten pick Jackson Shelstad. Initially reported to be on track later in November, Shelstad was thrown right into the fire and played 35 minutes. Oregon cut their turnovers from 21 against Hawaii, to 12 in the game with Rice, with Shelstad being able to break pressure while providing a steady hand at lead guard. The gravity and ability to create good looks for himself and others was a massive gain even with him having a rough shooting night.

The major factor in the game was Oregon’s rim pressure, which accounted for many of Oregon’s field goals in the second half, and led Oregon to 38 free throw attempts to Rice’s 11 for the game. Oregon has started off the season ice cold from the outside, as they only shot 7-28 (25%) from three, and currently are 9-44 (20.5%) this season. Even with them getting to the line quite often during these past two games, the Ducks are only shooting 65.6% FT cumulatively. While their shooting will surely come around, spacing and efficiency will be major factors as they build towards their next two opponents and defending their title in the Players Era tournament taking place in Las Vegas during Thanksgiving Weekend.

Backcourt play in this game was firmly in the favor of the Rice Owls, with Trae Broadnax, Nick Anderson, and Jalen Smith scoring 47 points while going a combined 9-19 on 3’s. Broadnax showed his array of footwork to get open on pull-ups, use of his body on drives, and that led to playmaking opportunities. Anderson was a steady shooting presence and off-ball threat, while Smith was 4-of-10 finding openings and leading the Owls with 5 assists. Their size, physicality, and off-ball movement led to high shot quality opportunities and could lead to the Ducks possibly wanting to apply defensive pressure further up the floor.

Oregon’s backcourt, with the welcome addition of Shelstad, still only managed to shoot a combined 4-of-27 (14.8%) from the field. While Shelstad was a press breaker and playmaker they desperately needed, and finished with 11 points, 4 rebounds, and 4 assists to just 2 turnovers, he was still getting his legs back under his jumper and went 2-12 from the field. Takai Simpkins was a valuable playmaker as well, though after leading Oregon in scoring against Hawaii, had just 5 points in the Rice game. Wei Lin was 3-of-4 from the line, but is very much adapting to the speed of the college game and has yet to score a regular season field goal.

After leaving the Hawaii game with 10:33 left in the second half, Kwame Evans, Jr. started and played 26 minutes, finishing with 11 points, 5 rebounds, a steal and a block. His balance seemed to be somewhat of an issue in the beginning, though he had a self 7-0 second-half run with a drive on a feed from Wei Lin, a putback dunk and a catch 3 that was a major momentum swing for Oregon. His high school teammate and current back-up, Ohio State transfer Sean Stewart, gave a ton of energy off the bench, finishing with 9 points and 5 rebounds, and drew numerous fouls on rebound attempts as well.

Depth at the wing will be something to watch for Oregon, with Devon Pryor and Dezdrick Lindsay providing some defensive versatility and physicality, yet struggling to find offensive identity. Pryor is a great vertical athlete with a nose for the ball as a rebounder, but finished with no points in 14 minutes, while having to leave the game early in the second half due to injury. There were no reports on the timeline for the injury to Pryor at this time, and much like Kwame Evans, Jr. against Hawaii, he was taken back to the locker room. Lindsay made his only shot, a three pointer with 7:32 left in the second half, while going 0-3 from the line. With so much pressure already being applied to the guards, with Rice picking them up as soon as the ball was inbounded, it is a must that these players provide somewhat of a stretch or cut option, while giving some confidence as scoring possibilities. 

Oregon outrebounded Rice 43-32, and the front court depth wore the Owls down. Overall defensive pressure for the team has been solid, as they also managed to hold Rice to 22-of-62 (35.5% FG), and caused 14 turnovers. Other defensive highlights were a couple of perimeter blocks from  Simpkins and Stewart, not to mention the event creation from both Bittle and  Evans, Jr. on the defensive end.

The backcourt, wing have plenty to prove in the next two games against South Dakota State on November 12 and Oregon State on November 17 both in Eugene, before a week break that sees them playing Auburn and San Diego State in Las Vegas for the Players Era Tournament.

This article was written by Michael Visenberg, a correspondent and scout for NetScouts Basketball. You can follow us on Instagram, or on twitter. Photos by Chad Mart.

We are looking for those interested in our basketball scout apprenticeship program. For information contact us and forward your resume.

Kent State Tops Cornell in Shootout

by Carl Berman
written by Carl Berman

Kent, OH – After coming off a home-opening 107-93 overtime loss on Monday to Troy, the Kent State looked to rebound against the Cornell Big Red. Kent State is coming off a 24-14 2024-25 season in which they reached the second round of the Mid-American Conference Tournament (MAC) and the third round of the National Invitational Tournament (NIT), losing to Loyola Chicago. The Golden Flashes graduated four impact players last year and is now looking for older players to step up to lead them this season. Kent State topped Cornell tonight, 110-102 in a shootout.

It was a fast start for the Golden Flashes as 6’4  graduate guard Morgan Safford started things off with a catch and shoot three-pointer to get Kent State on the board first. Safford used his quick burst off the dribble to create offensive opportunities all night for the Golden Flashes. The game would turn into a shooting exhibition in the first half as Cornell’s 6’2 senior guard Connor Noard would take it upon himself to lead the Big Red in scoring 34 points on 10-of-18 from the field, including 5-of-12 from behind the arc. He used his quick burst and muscular build to create contact on drives and force defenders to commit fouls in the paint as he shot 9-of-9 from the free throw line.

From a scouting perspective, Kent State’s Morgan Safford showed he was the best player on the floor, getting to his spots and being lethal all night in the catch and shoot, scoring 34 points on a robust 10-of-17 (58.8%) from the field, including shooting 9-of-15 (60.0%) from deep. The graduate guard showed that he has a strong mechanical shot release and follow-through on his shot. Safford also made his impact felt on the defensive end as Kent State stepped up its energy in the second half, accumulating four steals. Another big impact player was starting senior forward 6’8 Delrecco Gillespie, who finished with a double-double with 15 points and 10 rebounds in 28 minutes. He led the defensive effort for the Golden Flashes using his quick feet to contest basket drives and vertical and lateral length to contest and challenge shots at the rim, coming away with two blocks on the night.

Kent State’s starting point guard, junior 5’11”. Cian Medley contributed with 12 points in 26 minutes, knocking down 3-of-4 from behind the arc and forcing a steal. Even though Medley didn’t jump out with his numbers statistically, he showed he can handle the starting point guard responsibilities, handling the ball versus full-court pressure while staying strong defensively himself in the pick and roll and on switches in the halfcourt. Graduate forward/center 6’7, 289-pound Rob Whaley Jr. also impacted both ends of the floor for Kent State with his physicality on the glass. He used his weight and big body to create low-post scoring opportunities as he chipped in with 10 points in 16 minutes of action.

Two players who didn’t necessarily stand out in the box score but made huge impacts in the game were freshman backup point guard 6’2  Omer Hamama, who had 10 assists and seven points in 19 minutes, and graduate 6’9 forward Magnus Entenmann. Hamama orchestrated the offense all night for the Golden Flashes, showing he could handle full-court pressure and facilitate the ball, finding open shooters. The duo of Omer Hamama and Morgan Safford were in sync all night in the high pick-and-roll and catch-and-shoot game for Kent State. Entenmann made all the little winning plays for Kent State. He secured seven rebounds, including four on the offensive glass, and displayed his high motor by being the first to dive on the floor after a loose ball, forcing jump balls and turnovers in a close second half. Entenmann has physical strength and tools that also jump out when evaluating him, which he uses to make small impacts on both ends of the floor.

Despite the lead being close at times in the first half, Kent State never trailed, leading 78-60 in the second half. A few late defensive stops by the Golden Flashes secured their first win of the 2025-26 season.

This article was written by Nate Koesel, a correspondent and scout for NetScouts Basketball. You can follow us on Instagram, or on twitter.

We are looking for those interested in our basketball scout apprenticeship program. For information contact us and forward your resume.

Miami Dominates Bethune-Cookman Behind Balanced Attack

by Carl Berman
written by Carl Berman

Coral Gables, FL – The University of Miami rolled past Bethune-Cookman with a 101–61 victory, displaying a connected, disciplined group on both ends of the floor. Their defense stood out most with sharp rotations, consistent effort, and complete control of tempo. This performance came against a Bethune team that had just lost by only five points to No. 20 Auburn, making Miami’s dominance even more impressive.

From a scouting perspective, two freshmen in particular stood out as long-term prospects: Shelton Henderson and Timotej Malovec. Both have the physical and skill foundations that translate beyond the college level. Henderson (6’6, 240) finished with seven points, nine rebounds, and three assists in 22 minutes. He already carries an NBA-ready frame and strong defensive tools. The next step for him will be tightening his handle and becoming more confident offensively. With time and development, Henderson has the potential to become a first-round caliber player, possibly even a lottery pick if he continues refining his offensive package.

Malovec (6 ‘8, 214) was efficient in his minutes, shooting 3-of-5 from the field and 3-of-3 from three for nine points. His fundamentals are raw but clearly present. The jumper looks clean, his shot arc is smooth, and he plays within himself offensively. He’ll need to keep adding strength, but the foundation of a modern stretch forward is there. Henderson and Malovec are my two favorite pro prospects on this Miami roster, both carry real long-term potential if their development tracks upward.

Veteran forwards Malik Reneau (6’9, 238) and Tre Donaldson (6’3,198) led the way with experience and composure. Reneau was dominant around the rim, scoring 22 points with six rebounds and five assists on 9-of-12 shooting. His footwork and balance in the post were advanced, particularly finishing through contact with his left hand. Donaldson played with pace and control, adding 23 points and four assists on 9-of-11 from the floor. His handle and scoring feel were strong, though he’ll need to show more as a pure floor general to earn NBA looks.

Jakobi Heady (6’6, 200) also had a solid showing, posting 19 points on 6-of-13 shooting and 4-of-7 from three. His size and outside touch are valuable, but consistency and defensive intent will determine his next step.

Overall, Miami looked sharp, disciplined defensively, balanced offensively, and deep across positions. The upperclassmen brought stability, while the freshmen flashed legitimate NBA potential. Against a Bethune team that’s more competitive than the score suggests, this was a complete performance from a Miami group that seems built to keep climbing.

This article was written by Matias Deya, a correspondent and scout for NetScouts Basketball. You can follow us on Instagram, or on twitter.

We are looking for those interested in our basketball scout apprenticeship program. For information contact us and forward your resume.

Oregon Squeaks Past Hawaii in Poorly Played Game

by Carl Berman
written by Carl Berman

Eugene, OR – The Oregon Ducks needed a basket from Takai Simpkins with 2.5 seconds remaining to get past Hawaii 60-59 in front of 5,627 fans in Eugene in the Ducks’ home opener. Simpkins led Oregon with 18 points while center Nate Bittle added 12 points, 14 rebounds and four blocks. Hawaii was led by former Oregon player, Isaac Johnson, with 13 points.

This was not a well-played game. The teams combined for 39 turnovers, 21 of them by Oregon, 13 of them in the first half. The teams also combined for 7-of-43 shooting on three-pointers. Oregon shot 2-for-16 (12.5%).  The Ducks had trouble getting the ball into Bittle in the post. By late in the game, he had only three field goal attempts. He ended the night shooting 3-of-8 in 31 minutes of play. Bittle appeared a bit lethargic and in the final minutes he had a shot blocked at the rim by Johnson, on a play that he didn’t get much lift.

The end of the game sequence highlighted the type of game Oregon was playing. First Wei Lin missed a layup, then got his own rebound. Bittle them missed a three-pointer and got his own rebound. Lin then missed a three-pointer but the team retained possession. Drew Carter then substituted in for Lin and missed a three-pointer but Simpkins got the offensive rebound and subsequently made the game-winning shot.

Simpkins generally played well for Oregon ending the night shooting 7-of-12 overall but shot only 1-of-6 from deep. He added three rebounds and two steals, and showed a willingness to take the important shot. With Jackson Shelstad out with a hand injury, Chinese import Wei Lin started at point and had a poor game. In 17 minutes of pay he scored only two points, both from the free throw line, shot 0-of-7 overall, missing his four three-point attempts and added four turnovers. Through most of the second half Coach Altman went with the walk-on Carter at the point as he lost confidence in Lin. Lin was the leading domestic scorer in the Chinese Basketball Association last season, so the talent is there and will likely come out after an adjustment period.

Kwame Evans Jr. had some nice moments early in the game, finishing with seven points on 3-of-6 shooting and added three rebounds, three assists and two blocks. Evans suffered a lower leg injury early in the second half and did not return. The initial reports were that the injury is likely not serious, but he will probably miss some time.

Hawaii’s Isaac Johnson put up the best performance in the game. Despite fouling out after playing only 12 minutes, Johnson scored 13 points and added eight rebounds, three steals and a block. If he weren’t in such serious foul trouble throughout the game Hawaii would have likely won.

Oregon returns to action at home on Friday night against Rice. Hopefully they will show some improvement.

This article was written by Carl Berman, Managing Partner of NetScouts Basketball. You can follow us on Instagram on twitter.

We are looking for those interested in our basketball scout apprenticeship program. For information contact us and forward your resume.

Seton Hall Rolls Past St. Peter’s in Home Opener

by Carl Berman
written by Carl Berman

Newark, N.J. – Coming off one of the worst seasons in program history, Seton Hall attacked the transfer portal with purpose, targeting players who fit Coach Shaheen Holloway’s identity. Based on their season-opening performance, it looks like may have them. The Pirates rolled past Saint Peter’s in a 77–50 victory, showcasing their improved depth, toughness, and overall growth as a team.

Midway through the summer, the Seton Hall staff was searching for a big man — and they struck gold with Najai Hines, the No. 71 nationally ranked player per 247Sports. On opening night, Hines showed exactly why. The freshman finished with 12 points, 9 rebounds, and 6 blocks in just 21 minutes, using his elite length to challenge St. Peter’s at the rim without hesitation. A former Power Five tight end recruit, Hines was a dominant interior presence, carving up the Peacocks’ zone for easy finishes around the basket. His impact wasn’t limited to offense, as he also proved he can switch onto quick guards — a rare and valuable trait for a player his size.

In Shaheen Holloway’s four years at Seton Hall, he has struggled to find a true point guard who fits his style — until he landed Budd Clark. Clark was outstanding tonight. While his stat line didn’t jump off the page, he delivered all the intangibles that don’t always show up in the box score. He injected pace into the offense, creating an uptempo flow that led to easy baskets, even when they didn’t come off assists. Against St. Peter’s zone, Clark operated with poise and precision throughout his 25 minutes, consistently generating clean looks for his teammates and keeping the offense organized.

Even in St. Peter’s 27-point loss, there was a clear bright spot: TJ Robinson. The freshman showcased impressive shot-creation off the dribble, no matter who Seton Hall threw at him. Though he finished with just 11 points, Robinson was the Peacocks’ lone offensive engine, especially with the Pirates locking down Bryce Eaton. He consistently got into the lane, found his spots, and drew fouls to earn trips to the line. Robinson’s ability to create his own shot in a variety of situations stood out, and it will be interesting to see how his game develops in the MAAC this season — with a likely jump to a Power Five program in the next couple of years.

One of Seton Hall’s biggest weaknesses last season was its frontcourt production, particularly at the center position, which combined for just 7.3 points per game. Tonight, the Pirates made it clear that upgrading this area was a priority — and it showed. In addition to Hines’ breakout performance, Stephon Payne provided the perfect complement. While their skill sets differ, Payne’s lateral quickness is a major asset. He switched effectively onto guards, disrupted passing lanes, and generated turnovers with active hands. Payne, the Pirates’ starting center, finished with 11 points, 3 rebounds, 2 steals, and 2 blocks while shooting 3-for-4 from the line. The Hines–Payne duo brought a true “Sonic & Knuckles” dynamic to the floor. With Godswill Erheriene set to return from injury, Seton Hall should have no shortage of frontcourt talent this season.

One of the most interesting things tonight was Holloway essentially making a full hockey-style line change at the under–16 timeout. It appears he finally has a deep roster with little to no drop-off when he goes to the bench. Trey Parker replaced starting point guard Budd Clark and held his own. Despite forcing a few early shots, he soon settled in, facilitated the offense, and created clean looks for his teammates. Another standout from the second unit was Jacob Dar, who became the focal point of the group. He consistently flashed to the free-throw line against St Peter’s zone, and whether he was feeding the bigs, kicking out to shooters, or taking it to the rim himself, he made the offense flow.

Seton Hall will look to build on this strong non-conference win when they host Wagner on Friday in an on-campus matchup. The Pirates should aim to carry over the same defensive intensity, particularly their full-court pressure that disrupted St. Peter’s throughout the night. Offensively, establishing their bigs early and often will remain key, especially with the momentum generated by the Hines–Payne duo. If Seton Hall can replicate the depth, energy, and balance they showcased in the opener, they’ll put themselves in a strong position to continue stacking wins as they move deeper into the non-conference slate.

This article was written by William Murphy, a correspondent and scout for NetScouts Basketball. You can follow us on Instagram, or on twitter.

We are looking for those interested in our basketball scout apprenticeship program. For information contact us and forward your resume.

Newer Posts
Older Posts