I attended the CSI/SLCC game this afternoon – the #2 and #4 NJCAA teams in the country. CSI controlled the game from midway through the first half to the end. The Bruins had a few opportunities to whittle the lead and perhaps gain control but couldn’t quite break through. Both teams have strong talent and could do well in the postseason.
As many know, Erickson is a starting guard for SLCC. He’s critical to their success. Perhaps the strongest part of his game are the intangibles as they say – leadership and attitude. From a skill standpoint he plays the game well (shoots when he should (most of the time) and drives and passes when the game dictates it). He’s a strong ball handler and drives well. I liked his decision-making most of the time. He’s also a strong defender and will fit into the U’s defensive culture well. He’s got enough strength to switch onto bigs and not get abused – although at 6’3″ there are limitations to how long you want him switched onto a big.
I wouldn’t call shooting a weakness but I’ve seen him three times now against good opponents and he’s average. I’d love it if someone close to him (a coach or trainer) would help him move his shot from the left side of his face to the right side (he’s a right-handed shooter). The finish/rotation on his shot is terrific but there aren’t many good shooters out there shooting the ball left to right (think Lonzo Ball). It’s never too late to improve and I think making that adjustment would do wonders for him.
I think he’ll be a solid rotation player next season. He won’t beat Rollie or Lazar out but I think he can play either guard position.
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