Life After Alabi: Can the Noles rebound from losing their big man?

by Bill from Tampa

With Alabi going pro, who becomes the big man in Hamilton's offense?

BFT:  Well, it's not like FSU was scoring a whole lot of points in the first place. Obviously Solomon was a focal point of the offense. With his departure that role will probably fall to Xavier Gibson. And then you have Jon Kreft in there most likely for defense, and Bernard James who scored a lot and rebounded a lot at TCC. So replacing Solomon's points will most likely be by a committee of big men. And I would not overlook the improvement possibilities of Chris Singleton and definitely Michael Snaer. This also may get incoming freshman Ian Miller, who is known as a shooter, more involved in the offense earlier than usual. Same goes for Okaro White. In other words, right now Leonard Hamilton has options. Far better than few options.

Who can come close to replacing Alabi's rebounding and inside scoring threat?

BFT:  His departure could mean increased responsibilities for Singleton who was the leading rebounder at 7.0 boards per game. I've already mentioned James who could fill that role. Don't overlook what a player like Derwin Kitchen (4.9 rpg) can do in that area.

How will Alabi's departure change Hamilton's offense next year?

BFT:  Probably a little. Every year every coach goes through some adjustments because personnel is always changing. FSU changed from a Toney Douglas led offense two seasons ago to one that utilized the 'Noles front court strength. Where that focus will be will depend on practices come next October. But you can bet the staff has already been meeting to discuss what adjustments they will make.

Worst case scenario, did FSU just become an also-ran next season?

BFT: I doubt that. Hamilton has made progress just about every season. And with a solid core even without Alabi and the number of ACC underclassmen that have left for the NBA, Florida State will have a good opportunity to be in the upper level of the ACC once again.