Florida Gators Basketball: Keith Stone Poised To Break Out
After struggling to find playing time with the Florida Gators during the first six games, freshman Keith Stone has begun to break out over the past two.
Mike White and the Florida Gators men’s basketball team are off to one of the hottest starts in program history. The win-loss record isn’t White’s focus this early in the season, but he should be thrilled with Florida beginning the year at 7-1.
Since losing 77-72 to the No. 8 Gonzaga Bulldogs, Florida has been able to trust a new name for invaluable contributions: freshman forward Keith Stone.
Stone was the breakout star for Florida during a crucial 65-56 victory over the in-state rival Miami Hurricanes. He picked up career-high marks of 15 points, eight rebounds, and two 3-point field goals made in 25 sensational minutes of play.
The following time out, Stone picked up eight points, one rebound, one assist, and a 3-point field goal made in 17 minutes during a 91-60 victory over the North Florida Ospreys.
Those aren’t necessarily star-caliber numbers, but Stone has the upside of an NBAplayer. He’s turned fat into muscle to chisel a 6’8″ and 240-pound frame that enables him to play and defend both forward positions.
Per Stats LLC (h/t Fox Sports), head coach Mike White knew it was only a matter of time before Stone earned more playing time.
“We knew at some point he was going to kind of settle in and provide some production and earn more minutes,” White said. “We saw glimpses of what he can potentially be for this team — a very good player.”
It may also only be a matter of time before Stone breaks out as a star in Gainesville.
Stardom isn’t something that can be achieved with two quality opponents, but Stone has the type of skill set that coaches dream of. He’s strong, athletic, can shoot the 3-ball, rebounds well, and does an already respectable job of passing out of double teams.
If nothing else, White appears to have found the perfect complement to John Egbunu, Justin Leon, and Devin Robinson.
That alone makes Stone one of the most valuable players on the roster.
Stone’s defensive potential could be explored and turned into a legitimate weapon for the potentially contending Gators. His 3-point range and offensive versatility could make him a centerpiece of White’s selfless system.
Whether he realizes his potential in 2016-17 or a future season, Stone’s presence has already begun to benefit the Gators.
With a game against the Duke Blue Devils looming, the Gators will look to Stone for continued progress and production.
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