CBS Rothstein: Ryan Manuel is SMU's new Nick Russell

[GiddyUp]

http://www.cbssports.com/collegebasketb ... rks-friars

Man, if Ryan could hit a jumper that would be a nice full replacement for Nick.

3. Ryan Manuel is SMU's new Nick Russell

One of Larry Brown's major concerns coming into the season was replacing Russell, a terrific perimeter defender who was a critical piece in the Ponies' 27-win campaign a year ago. The 6-4 Manuel has stepped into that role for SMU as of late and the senior looks like he's more than capable of continuing to flourish moving forward. In last Saturday's win over Michigan in Ann Arbor, Manuel held Wolverines' star Caris LeVert to four points and no made 3-point field goals in 37 minutes. A freak athlete that seems to come up with every 50-50 ball that enters his area, Manuel also doesn't demand shots in the scheme of the Ponies' offense. He currently has more free throw attempts (41) than field goal attempts (34) this season.

[sadderbudweiser]

That's a pretty telling stat. Now make them!

Congrats Ryan on the big step up. I'm guessing LB has been counting on this since what-his-nname went to China.

[gostangs]

Ryan is definitely a bright spot in our year so far, as is Keith and Yanick. If our bench could turn it up a notch and with MK back this could get pretty interesting.

[sadderbudweiser]

Ryan is definitely a bright spot in our year so far, as is Keith and Yanick. If our bench could turn it up a notch and with MK back this could get pretty interesting.

It's been a slow roll of a start but i like our chances in conference. Hopefully MK gets game fit fast.