Here are Coach Kannemeyer's 3 Keys to the Game:
Sizeable Advantage
In the victory on Sunday, the Bandits took care of business early, jumping out to a 10 point lead by the end of the first quarter. A big part of that early run was the big man Brandon Gilbeck, who factors into every game for the Bandits but was outright dominant against an overmatched frontline of the Saskatchewan Rattlers.
Gilbeck had great early transition rim runs that foiled the deep safety defender who had to pick him up. This led to easy dunks and clear driving lanes for his teammates.
In the half-court, the players recognized the sizeable mismatch against the offensively talented Rattlers' bigs. Travis Daniels, a CEBL veteran at six-foot-seven, is no match if Gilbeck can establish a deep post position for his favourite over the left shoulder jump hook.
Gilbeck’s biggest impact came on the defensive end with several huge, momentum swinging blocks on Sunday. The big man could have done more had he not got into foul trouble. The Bandits will need both his defensive and offensive presence against an undersized frontline Tuesday if they are to finish the season on a winning note.
Close Out Short!
On Sunday the Bandits excelled in forcing the Rattlers to settle for shots outside the paint. Gilbeck played an early role in this, but the Bandit guards were relentless at containing their man's dribble off of closeouts.
All of the Rattler guards are looking to get into paint to create defensive rotations, hunting for the best shot and working together as a team. The goal is to get the Bandits in multiple defensive rotations, eventually leading to uncontested layups or wide-open catch-and-shoot threes.
The Bandits were able to close out with control on Sunday and focus their energy on not allowing their man to beat them off the bounce. It's a simple strategy in hindsight but one that is often difficult to pull off if teams are loaded with shooters.
This will be a major key on Tuesday as the Rattlers struggle from the outside, especially off the dribble in one-on-one late clock scenarios. If the Rattlers are forced to play as individual components of their drive and kick offence, the Bandits could cruise to an even bigger victory than the one on the weekend.
Manigault the Maestro
The formula to achieving offensive team success might have been realized Sunday as Kenny Manigault carved up every defender, relentlessly attacking the rim.
Lately, the American import has turned on his offence late in games as a desperate attempt to catch up during the previous five game losing streak.
On Sunday he played four quarters offensively, grabbing the bull by the horns whenever the Bandits needed a bucket. And he should!
Manigault has been one of the best all around guards this season in the CEBL, especially on the defensive end. As his offence has shined in catch up mode, Manigault might have finally turned the corner mentally, realizing that he is one of the team's best options to create a defensive rotation and also possibly their best passer.
Both Alex Campbell and Malcolm Duvivier have looked comfortable filling the wings offensively, playing more to their strengths; attacking closeouts, shooting off the catch and running the wing in transition. In a shortened season, roles are defined early but are constantly adapting as players such as Manigault realize their full potential to the team's success.