Alex Oriakhi looked strong and, by far, the most capable and polished big man in UConn's first practice Saturday.
He rebounds well. He scores well with both hands from in close.
He's just a beast.
It's very early to judge him, but I was impressed with his work against teammates in UConn's opening practice.
"I'm just trying to play hard and show Coach I can be that rebounder he needs," Oriakhi said.
Oriakhi on what surprised him: "It was really fast and really physical. The speed of the game, I'm not used to that. Even when you're tired, you just have to keep going."
Oriakhi on the box-out drill: "I've seen it because I've been to a few practices. But you don't understand it until you do it. That was probably the worst drill. I'm laughing right now so I don't cry."
Oriakhi was a McDonald's All-American and the Gatorade Player of the Year in New Hampshire at the Tilton School.
I hope the new guys can pick up the system.Coach calhoun can make winners out of just about anyone if they are willing to work.