Manny Harris
The NCAA recently announced 3 rules changes for men’s basketball. The changes involved clarifying block-charge calls, who can shoot free throws after an injury and the expanded use of replay. I want to zero in on the change that is intended to clarify block-charge calls. The change is that secondary defenders must establish position outside the area between the backboard and the front of the rim to draw a charge call. This seems to be a variation of the NBA’s semi circle rule. It does not appear as though the NCAA is going to incorporate a semi circle type line on the court so the call will remain subjective.
You might be wondering why this is significant for Michigan fans. The answer is so manny, that is Manny Harris. How many times in the last 2 years was he called for a charge when a player had stepped in front of him right under the hoop? I can’t find any stats on this but I can tell you it was a lot, once or twice a game sounds about right.
So big deal what difference does one maybe two calls a game make. Those charging calls are momentum changers. Instead of the Big Ten’s second best free throw shooter Harris stepping to the line to complete a three point play Michigan has to turn the ball over. If the opponent goes down and nails a three then you are talking about a 6 point swing and momentum, especially on the road, has changed.
Manny Harris is a renowned slasher and can get to the rim with the best of ‘em in college basketball. Combine that with his marksmanship from the free throw line and this is indeed a good deal for Michigan. Harris will be in his third year in John Beilein’s system. When you consider the way players develop under Beilein’s tutelage you would have to think that the 2008-09 All Big Ten first teamer is poised for a monstrous season.
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