Kansas Basketball: Can Jeff Withey Put It All Together as a Senior?
May 29, 2012
Jeff Withey wasn't the Jayhawks leading scorer or leading rebounder last year - Thomas Robinson filled those roles.
But, Withey's tough defense and shot blocking were an essential element to Kansas' run to the 2012 NCAA Championship game.
The 2011-12 season was the first time that Withey had been used for more than mop-up duty.
He played 25 minutes per game, averaging 9 ppg, 6.3 rpg and 3.6 bpg.
He collected 6 double-doubles and blocked at least four shots in 17 games.
Looking toward the 2012-13 season, the question arises: Will Withey put it all together in his senior season?
Can he become a well-rounded, dominant big man for Bill Self?
He already clogs the middle and throws back shots.
In fact, in terms of blocked shots per 40 minutes, Withey was No. 2 (5.47 per 40) in the nation to Kentucky's Anthony Davis (5.85 per 40).
Self needs Withey to become a monster on the glass and a more productive contributor on offense.
The Jayhawks should be able to dump it down to the seven-footer, and let him work the block.