Fresno State Athletics
Bulldogs Work on Establishing Post Presence
10/6/2015 12:00:00 AM | Men's Basketball
By Stephen Trembley
strembley@csufresno.edu
www.GoBulldogs.com
FRESNO, Calif. --- After a strong opening weekend of fall practice, the Bulldogs' men's basketball team turned its focus to establishing a physical and aggressive post presence while installing its offensive principles and defensive mindset during Tuesday's practice.
"Our post players have the mentality of trying to get the rebound every time," senior point guard Cezar Guerrero said. "Coach Terry places a big emphasis on rebounding and defense. We're really focusing on those things."
Junior forward Torren Jones played his freshman season at Missouri before spending his sophomore year at Midland College. Jones has brought a determined focus and energy to fall practice, especially when working in the post.
"I feel like we all work off each other and we are going to make each other better every day," Jones said. "We all try to play as hard as we can and bring different things to the table."
The development of 6-10 center Terrell Carter II is also taking shape and his effort was noticed by his teammates. Carter has spent a lot of time this offseason trying to improve his conditioning and learn how to use his size as a big advantage inside.
"I think this was Terrell's best day in the post since he's been here," junior forward Karachi Edo said of Carter. "He absolutely dominated everybody that he went against and if he keeps on playing like that, it's a great opportunity for him and the team. I'm loving our team right now. Everybody is talking and coming together."
In addition to the extended post work, the team also continued its offensive installation and situational defense with a 30-second shot clock, which will be used this season for all games.
As a veteran point guard entering his final collegiate season, Guerrero knows how important this time of year is in order to be ready for the Bulldogs' Nov. 13 opener versus Pepperdine at the Save Mart Center.
"We have all the size we need and we're doing a great job battling out there," Guerrero said. "Once we develop an inside presence, the outside game always becomes so much easier for us. Any of our guys can be an offensive threat at any time."
Fresno State has five more practices before Mountain West Media Days next Tuesday in Las Vegas, which will include the release of the official preseason media polls and all-conference teams.
"Be Bold." --- Season tickets for the 2015-16 Fresno State men's basketball season are on sale now starting at $149 by calling 559-278-DOGS.
