Samodurov’s Breakout Gives UNC a New Option Against Wyoming
A strong night off the bench
North Carolina beat Wofford 109-70 on Friday at the Dean E. Smith Center. The Tar Heels’ reserves supplied 58 points, helping the team pull away by nearly 40.
Samodurov was among the bench’s leading contributors. He made 4 of 5 shots, scored 13 points and collected seven rebounds after limited impact in his previous four games, including three preseason contests.
Skills and physical challenges
The 6-foot-11, 225-pound center played 18 minutes, one of the team’s higher totals. He showed the ability to work from the high post and link plays by distributing the ball.
The article identifies physicality as a concern: Samodurov was moved off his position in post situations and while boxing out. It argues that power forward may suit him better than center.
A possible role against Wyoming
North Carolina’s coaching staff can use this part of the season to test different rotations. Samodurov could see more involvement when the Tar Heels meet Wyoming on Nov. 10.
Sayon Keita, a former FC Barcelona center, is described as having struggled on the boards during the first two games. The article says Samodurov may help as a rotation option, while noting he is not ideally suited to play center.
Versatility could add value
Samodurov’s potential contributions extend beyond rebounding. He can facilitate, create off the dribble, move to the perimeter and shoot after screens, as well as help generate transition offense.
If he can provide adequate rebounding and support the offense, the article says he could become an important part of the rotation. His performance against Wofford gives UNC a reason to try him in a larger role against Wyoming.
Key points
- Samodurov had 13 points and seven rebounds in UNC’s win over Wofford.
- North Carolina’s bench scored 58 points in the 109-70 victory.
- The article views power forward as a better fit for Samodurov than center.
- His varied offensive skills could earn him a larger role against Wyoming on Nov. 10.