Tennessee basketball: Vols’ individual goals for the 2018-19 season
Kyle Alexander – Lead the SEC in blocks
There was a point last season where tracking Alexander’s blocking stats each game became a common occurrence. It can’t be understated just how vital Alexander was to the success of the Vols’ defense.
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There was an eight-game stretch where Alexander registered at least one block each game. During that span, Alexander recorded 21 total blocks, and the Vols went 7-1. With 55 total blocks on the season, Alexander led the Vols but was only good enough for 7th in the SEC. He ended up 18 blocks short of the league leader Anfernee McLemore from Auburn.
McLemore is still at Auburn, and there are some other players in the SEC that Alexander will have to beat out to accomplish this goal. One includes fellow teammate Yves Pons. Against Lenior-Rhyne Alexander was a bit overshadowed by Pons three blocks. Pons was everywhere and even hawked down a guy on a fastbreak for one of his blocks.
But, guess who stands of the top of the league? That’s right none other than Kyle Alexander. The 6-foot-11 senior recorded four blocks in the season opener and should easily make that a consistent trend.
I was big on Kyle Alexander being the most improved player in the SEC last season. It doesn’t take long watching him play to have that same thought. This year is a big year for the senior forward. If he improves as much as he did last season, it could mean a shot at the NBA.