In the upcoming weeks, The Post will analyze the Ohio men’s basketball roster and its potential impact in 2016-17.
This week, The Post will focus on sophomore guard Jordan Dartis, who just might be the future of the Bobcats.
Dartis' shooting stroke is smooth. His ball handling? Just as impressive. Clutch ability? He showed that, too, during last year’s College Basketball Invitational (CBI).
It’s simple: Dartis has all the raw basketball mechanics to be a main cog for Ohio in the next few years.
In Dartis’ first season, Ohio went 6-1 in games when he scored 15-plus points. He now has the potential to be an important component for the Bobcats in their upcoming season.
“Jordan hit some big shots," coach Saul Phillips said after Dartis hit a falling 3-pointer to help the Bobcats advance to the CBI semifinal. "Jordan has a flair for the dramatic."
Dartis’ sharpshooting from beyond the 3-point line often busted through Mid-American Conference zone defenses last year, as Phillips said he will probably lean on Dartis more in 2016-17.
According to Phillips, Dartis has beefed up from his rookie campaign — a process of natural maturation — with the Newark-native looking to attack the rim more often in year two.
That component of his offense was lacking during his first year on the team. Dartis relied mostly on his perimeter shooting and spacing in order to find his rhythm.
But with a few added pounds –– 15 pounds to be exact –– Dartis will look to diversify his offensive repertoire.
It’s a dangerous thought for a player that has already proven to be one of the Bobcats’ best offensive weapons early on in his career.
“Jordy had an unbelievable freshman year," Phillips said recently. "He didn't shoot the ball at high numbers in terms of attempts."
But Dartis' rising stardom can be looked at by answering one question, one that Phillips has pondered all summer.
“Can he become a more aggressive playmaker, (a) scorer?”
