DePaul's Chris Holtmann Is Off To A 7
DePaul's Chris Holtmann Is Off To A Hot Start: Analyzing The Complexities Of Coaching Success
Introduction
The start of a new college basketball season always brings a mix of excitement and anticipation. For fans of DePaul University, this season is no different. After a disappointing 11-21 campaign last year, the Blue Demons are hoping for a turnaround under new head coach Chris Holtmann. Through the first seven games of the season, DePaul has shown signs of improvement, posting a 5-2 record. But is this early success a sign of things to come, or is it simply a mirage?
A Promising Start
There are several reasons for optimism about DePaul's future under Holtmann. First, the Blue Demons have shown a marked improvement on the defensive end of the court. Last season, DePaul allowed opponents to score an average of 79.3 points per game. This season, that number has dropped to 65.4 points per game. Holtmann has implemented a more aggressive defensive scheme that has forced turnovers and created scoring opportunities for his team.
Second, DePaul's offense has been more efficient this season. The Blue Demons are shooting a higher percentage from the field (46.7% this season compared to 43.2% last season) and from three-point range (37.5% this season compared to 33.6% last season). Holtmann has also done a good job of getting his players involved in the offense. Six different players are averaging more than 8.0 points per game, and no one player is taking more than 25% of the team's shots.
Finally, Holtmann has brought a new level of excitement to the DePaul program. The Blue Demons are averaging over 4,000 fans per game this season, which is a significant increase over last year's average of 2,500 fans per game. Holtmann has also been active in the community, and he has helped to generate positive publicity for the program.
Challenges Ahead
Despite the promising start, there are still some challenges that DePaul will need to overcome if they want to be successful this season. First, the Blue Demons have a tough schedule ahead of them. They will play 10 games against teams that made the NCAA Tournament last year, including four games against teams ranked in the Top 25. Second, DePaul's depth will be tested as the season progresses. The Blue Demons only have nine players who are averaging more than 10 minutes per game, and they will need to get more production from their bench if they want to be successful.
Conclusion
It is still too early to say whether DePaul's early success is a sign of things to come. The Blue Demons have shown improvement in several areas, but they still have some challenges to overcome. However, Holtmann has brought a new level of excitement to the program, and he has the Blue Demons headed in the right direction.
Reflective Questions
1. What are the key factors that have contributed to DePaul's early success this season?
2. What are the challenges that DePaul will need to overcome if they want to be successful this season?
3. What are your predictions for DePaul's record this season?