Georgia outlasts Valdosta State, 93-81
The Georgia Bulldogs welcomed a premier Division II program in the Valdosta State Blazers into Stegeman Coliseum this past Friday.
While Georgia came out with a double-digit win, it was a win they had to fight for.
When you bring in an almost entirely new team, it may take a few games to settle in and find an identity. That makes sense as to why the senior-led Blazers jumped out to a 19-7 lead.
Once Georgia playmakers like Anthony Edwards and Rayshaun Hammonds got comfortable, there wasn't a whole lot Valdosta State could do.
Edwards, who came away with 18 points, did a very good job of creating space to find a shot or to dish to a teammate. His huge frame also allowed him to be a force on defense, as he came away with a couple of turnovers. Edwards looks like he will be one of the top point guards in the country this season.
Hammonds looks like he will be the low post threat that the Bulldogs desperately need. He had a couple of acrobatic, turnaround jump shots down low, and even knocked down a three-pointer. Georgia's going to need his offensive presence for success this season.
One of the surprises of the night came from true freshman, Sahvir Wheeler. While he stands at just 5'10, Wheeler's on ball defense is impressive to watch. He adds on to the backcourt defensive pressure that the Bulldogs have thrived off of in the past, which is part of the reason Georgia had 11 steals against Valdosta State.
Despite the youth on this team, Georgia looks to make that up with raw talent and hustle. The Bulldogs didn't hesitate to push the ball up the court, and move the ball around on offense. With Georgia's depth at guard this season, they'll be able to run an uptempo offense and wear opponents down. If Tom Crean's team can force opponents into a "track meet" style of game, the Bulldogs are going to win a lot this year.
We'll see if Georgia sticks with this identity in the upcoming scrimmage against UNC-Charlotte this Friday.
