1. Justin Abson is a defensive force
Freshman forward Justin Abson has made an immediate impact on this Mountaineers team. Through nine games, Abson is averaging 2.8 blocks per game, ranking 13th nationally. He provides an interior presence for App State that challenges and alters shots in the paint, making it much more difficult for opponents to score while he’s on the court. Abson moves his feet well in pick and roll situations and is able to recover to the basket if he gets beaten.
“He’s got such a natural shot blocking, timing, length,” head coach Dustin Kerns said following App State’s 79-75 overtime win over NC Central.