Feature: UNC Basketball Player by Player Review: John Henson
By Matt Hamm
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In our fifth edition of Player by Player Review I’ll take a look at John Henson the Tar Heels junior forward. Over the next week or so I’ll take a look at the entire UNC roster from top to bottom. What the team needs from each player, who will deliver and how each player fits into the team. For the other parts of the series click HERE
UNC Junior Forward John Henson turned down the NBA to return to UNC to improve his game and stock in next years draft. Along with Tyler Zeller and freshman James McAdoo he forms the top inside trio in college basketball. Henson, known for his huge wingspan and shot blocking abilities is a huge part of the teams strategy and hopes of bringing back college basketball’s crown to Chapel Hill.
Henson’s role, what he must deliver for the team to win the national title and if he will deliver after the jump
Henson will play huge minutes this year for UNC, he will be counted on to be one of the stars of the team each and every game. Outside of Harrison Barnes, Henson may be the teams most talented player. Coming out of high school Henson was the #1 prospect, finding himself stuck between positions his freshman season it took him until his sophomore season to find himself on the court for the Heels. Now after turning down the NBA (thanks again lockout!) Henson has a big chance to raise his stock for next years draft. The team will feature three NBA level big men in Henson, senior Tyler Zeller and freshman James McAdoo. Roy Williams needs Henson to be it’s defensive leader each and every night. He’s looked great this year on that end of the floor, especially at the carrier classic where he blocked an incredible 9 shots that night.
With Dexter Strickland as the teams lock down defender on the perimeter the team is counting on Henson to deliver inside. Henson worked on his offensive game more than anything this summer. Henson needs to become a more reliable post player, adding a signature move was a point of focus for Henson. If he is able to become at least a threat with his back to the basket it could take this offense to a new level. While the Heels don’t need Henson to score 20 pts a game or anything another post presence in the starting lineup is necessary for a title run. I see Henson improving his overall offensive game while continuing his dominance defensively. I can’t see him being a big time scorer but I do see him becoming a decently reliable offensive threat. If I’m right it will give the Heels a lot more flexibility offensively while taking the pressure off Harrison Barnes and Tyler Zeller. Look for Henson to land on either the first or second team All ACC and he may be in contention for defensive player of the year award.
Check back tomorrow for our preview of the Heels matchup with Mississippi Valley State
Keep It Heel!
*If you are responding to the ad in the Daily Tar Heel or Craigslist for staff writers you have come to the right place. Click HERE For Details.