The expectations for Lamar Wilkerson were high when he arrived in Bloomington and through the first eight weeks of the summer, he was exactly what Indiana thought he’d be. Heading down to Puerto Rico would shed light on the Hoosiers as a whole, but specifically the capabilities of a guy like Wilkerson who is expected to play a large role in setting the tone on both ends of the floor this season.
Right when he stepped on the floor in game one you could see the capabilities from a scoring perspective. His ability to create off of the dribble was seen, but also his range from three, stretching out past NBA range at times.
But, while the range and ability was there — the shots weren’t falling. For some, that would be a time to press and force the issue, but Wilkerson stayed the course and took what came to him — which were still a lot of opportunities from his teammates who were looking to get him going.
It resulted in just 3-of-14 from the field and 3-of-13 from three. He finished with 12 points in what was a blowout win.
There was no concern heading into game two from his head coach, however. Instead, excitement.
It resulted in a major turnaround performance. After getting down by 23 points, it was Wilkerson who got going. He sparked an 8-0 run out of the half and turned into the go-to player Indiana knew he was. The difference from game one to two? His shot creation and shot making.
“Lamar can shoot as many times as he wants. I have ultimate faith in Lamar making shots,” DeVries said after game two. “I think you saw a glimpse of why we do in that second half. He can just change a game in two, three possessions. He can go 0-for-4, 4-for-8, 6-for-10 in a hurry.”
(On3+): Inside The Numbers — Full stats from Indiana basketball exhibition trip to Puerto Rico
He hit two quick 3s that sparked his play, and Indiana’s, as he led the Hoosiers with 18 points on 7-of-11 from the floor and 4-of-7 from three. Indiana’s comeback was a…
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