There were questions how Florida’s entire new staff of assistant coaches would contribute during the 2011-12 season.
So far, so good.
When Florida beat Virginia in the first round of the NCAA Tournament, it got a big boost from assistant coach Norm Roberts. Roberts, a former head coach at St. John’s, had scrimmaged Virginia two years ago and knew some of their personnel. He devised the scouting report that kept Mike Scott and Co at bey.
Roberts’ Big East ties will be counted on again tonight when Florida faces Marquette. As expected, he’s preparing the scouting report.
Florida assistant Matt McCall put together the scouting report for UF’s round of 32 win over Norfolk State. It was McCall’s idea to double Norfolk State center Kyle O’Quinn in the post.
McCall also has been busy on the recruiting trail. His legwork helped land in-state prospects Dillon Graham (Class of 2012 signee) and point guard standout Kasey Hill (Class of 2013 commitment). On Wednesday night, McCall was in Las Vegas trying to lure 2012 five-star big man Anthony Bennett. Bennett is planning to visit the UF campus in April.
Assistant John Pelphrey has worked primarily with UF’s frontcourt, which hasn’t been an easy task. With Will Yeguete out with a broken foot, Pelphrey has been forced to get creative into developing Patric Young and Erik Murphy into more consistent players. He’s also helped restore Casey Prather’s lost confidence.
