EUGENE, Ore. — The Oregon men’s basketball team is facing tough times with injuries. Recently, they lost to Iowa, 84-66, at Matthew Knight Arena, adding to their struggles.
Key players Devon Pryor and Ege Demir joined the injured list alongside Nate Bittle and Jackson Shelstad. Coach Dana Altman has hinted that Bittle might return next week, which would be a much-needed boost. The Ducks were outscored in the paint against Iowa, 44-26.
The Hawkeyes shot an impressive 58.9% overall, with 69.2% in the second half. In contrast, the Ducks managed just 41.1% shooting, including a disappointing 24% from beyond the arc.
Altman criticized the team’s defense, stating, “We defensively just didn’t get it done.” He pointed out that while they shot well inside, they often took poor three-point shots. The lack of experience among players is evident, impacting the team fundamentally.
Kwame Evans Jr. led the Ducks with 18 points, and Takai Simpkins contributed 16. Simpkins made a strong return after missing the previous game, while Dezdrick Lindsay added 10 points, highlighted by a powerful dunk.
The game started competitively, but Iowa took control after Bennett Stirtz hit back-to-back three-pointers, leading to a 14-2 run. Stirtz finished with 32 points and showcased his potential as a first-round draft pick. Altman admitted, “We had no answer for him.”
Despite a brief rally in the second half, the Ducks couldn’t close the gap. They fought hard, but Iowa’s consistent shooting helped them pull away.
In terms of injuries, Demir’s shoulder surgery will keep him out for the rest of the season. This loss is significant, as the team relies on experienced players to guide younger teammates. With 38 combined starts between Bittle, Shelstad, and Pryor, those absences are felt deeply.
Next up, the Ducks will face Purdue on Saturday at 10 a.m. (CBS). As they navigate these challenges, fans are hopeful for Bittle’s return and the team’s ability to regroup.
Recent discussions online highlight the team’s resilience and fans’ support, with many taking to social media to express optimism for better days ahead. Injuries have tested the Ducks, but the community remains united in their support.
For those interested in the future of college basketball and potential draft picks, insights into player performances like Stirtz’s can provide a glimpse into the evolving dynamics of the sport. The current landscape emphasizes the importance of adaptability and depth, especially as teams like Oregon work through injuries.
Source link
