2005 Vanderbilt Commodores Basketball Preview

2005 Vanderbilt Commodores Team Preview

Vanderbilt is one of those teams that is either underrated by experts or filled with overachievers or maybe both. Last season they were supposed to be last in their conference, yet they managed a third place finish, a NIT berth, and a quarterfinal appearance. This year people seem to be giving them a little more respect but can they get even more?

The Commodores have a full backcourt of sound scorers and a capable bench of guards. Led by point guard Mario Moore (13.5 PPG), who is more than capable of making things happen, the Commodores have a strong general to anchor them. Another guard, Shan Foster, who will see lots of time this season, was chosen for the SEC All-Freshman team last season. His average of 9.2 PPG is bound to escalate and his athleticism makes him both an outside and inside threat.

Forward Julian Terrell is the second starting senior on the Commodores. Terrell (6.8 PPG) is due for a big year and his team needs him to have one. Last season Terrell was the team’s leading rebounder with 5.1 per game; continued improvement in that area will be a big bonus.

Transferring from Virginia, guard/ forward Derrick Byars may be the impact player Vanderbilt needs. After sitting down for a year, the junior is primed to use his fine perimeter skills to boost this team’s point totals. He may be the man to replenish the contributions of former guard/forward Corey Smith (12.0 PPG).

Also being asked to step it up will be rebounding tough guy DeMarre Carroll. A good shooter from inside this athletic player uses all of his 6’ 7”, 210-pound frame to control the boards.
In order to succeed Vanderbilt needs to remain strong on defense and expand its offensive arsenal. If they can do those things they will garner a better finish in their division and more respect than they did last year.

For more info on the 2005 Commodores check out the official Vanderbilt athletic site.