Indianapolis, IN – The IUPUI Jaguars extended their winning streak to four Sunday afternoon after a thrilling victory over North Dakota State. The contest was a back and forth battle with eleven lead changes and nine ties. The final lead change coming with just over a second left when sophomore guard Jordan Pickett hit a step back three pointer to win the game for the Jaguars 73-72.
Pickett is a sophomore transfer from Loyal who scored a career high twenty points on 8-for-11 shooting from the field. He is a highly efficient hustle player. He attacks the basket well and makes great decisions with the basketball constantly making the right play. On the defensive end he is aggressive and is relentless with his effort plays, getting on the floor whenever need be.
The Jaguars leading scorer on the season, junior guard Darrell Combs scored seventeen points, but struggled from the floor shooting 5-for-15 on the day. Combs is a great isolation player effectively attacking the basket off the dribble or pull up for a jumper at any time. Combs does a great job of taking what the defense gives him and not forcing the issue. While his shot selection at times is questionable, it’s very clear he has the ability to hit any shot on the floor with his great stroke.
The Bison were led today by sophomore guard Paul Miller. Miller is a 6’5 combo guard who really created a problem for the Jaguars all day with his ability to attack the defense with or without the ball finishing with 21 points (5-for-10 from the three point line). Miller is a great ball handler and has the ability to create space off the dribble with a plethora of moves. Complimenting his great handles, the sophomore has a great stroke and the ability to really shoot the basketball when stationary or coming off screens. Miller works within the Bison offense and lets the game come to him. He does have a tendency to turn the ball over at times with risky passes. On the defensive end Miller applies good pressure to the ball staying active with his feet and hands while still having the presence of mind to avoid unnecessary contact.
Each team is back in action on Thursday. North Dakota State will look to rebound when they host Oral Roberts and the Jaguars will hit the road looking to extend their recent winning streak to five at Denver.
This article was written by Nick Hinojosa, a correspondent and scout for NetScouts Basketball. You can subscribe to our RSS feed from the upper right corner of our home page, follow us on Facebook, or on twitter.
Any international players interested in coming to the USA to play in college, prep school or high school can contact us here. We are looking for interns and sales associates. If you’re interested contact us and forward your resume.
