SportsCenter NEXT

Biggest takeaways in the UConn win over Michigan. Early-season games of this magnitude can tell you a great deal about a team. Some build confidence; others reveal the truth. Coaches understand you learn and improve from both. No need to get too high or too low. UConn’s guards led the way with Braylon Mullins scoring 23 points and Silas Demary Jr. adding 21 in a dominant showing by the duo. they scored 44 of the 85 points. They look as good as any backcourt in the nation. Mullins made the right choice in returning to college. He wasn’t a lock to go in the first round of the NBA Draft, and he loves the college game and wanted to play for Dan Hurley. His next step is to become a consistent shooter, as he was in this game. For the Huskies to become the team they want to be, they’ll need a consistent third scorer. I expect Nik Khamenia to average double figures this season as a sophomore Highly ranked freshman Colben Landrew could fill that role. He’s a strong straight-line driver and an excellent perimeter rebounder He’s capable of making shots, but his shooting isn’t yet dependable. His free-throw shooting will be important because he’ll be at the line a lot this season. Michigan put together a few small runs, and UConn let them happen. This early in the season both are expected. Michigan has plenty of talent and will grow from this experience. On defense, the Wolverines are still developing chemistry and building good habits. They showed flashes but couldn’t sustain their intensity and they struggled to defend without fouling. Mike Boynton will get them on the same page as the season goes on. The Wolverines need to be strong and physical in the paint and create scoring opportunities with their defense. A big area of practice will be their 3pt-shot selection, particularly against top teams. Film study and practice will provide a lot of answers. Not every team has a roster that allows them to schedule like this in early November. These two have loaded rosters.

Miles Sadler will have West Virginia scoring more points in transition, attempting more field goals, producing more assists and forcing more turnovers than last year. He will be one of the most impactful freshmen in college basketball this year and is the centerpiece of their offense. In two games he is averaging 20.5 points, 7.5 assists, and 2.0 steals per game.

Zion Green has committed to Alabama, becoming the Crimson Tide’s second top-25 basketball recruit. Quotes and analysis with @jeffborzello espn.com/mens-college-basket…