The discussion about the NBA and how it has changed in the last several years got me thinking about similar trends in college basketball. Its not unusual that college basketball is following similar trends, but the change is slower. Efficiency is up, tempo is up, shooting is up, turnovers are down, and FT rate is dropping. Offensive rebounding percentage going down is a bit more strange, but perhaps better shooting is part of that.
I will say I think it is tough for college coaches to adapt. Every year since the emphasis on freedom of movement, (2014, it shows up clear with FT rate and efficiency) we see more calls in the preseason, but often by the time conference play comes along we get back to slower, more physical games. Still, the trends are going in the right direction, it will likely just take more time for more coaches to really embrace these changes (and honestly lose some of their control of games). Plus, the talent level of the college game will never fully allow the free flowing play we see in the NBA, but at least the game can continue to move that direction.
I will say I think it is tough for college coaches to adapt. Every year since the emphasis on freedom of movement, (2014, it shows up clear with FT rate and efficiency) we see more calls in the preseason, but often by the time conference play comes along we get back to slower, more physical games. Still, the trends are going in the right direction, it will likely just take more time for more coaches to really embrace these changes (and honestly lose some of their control of games). Plus, the talent level of the college game will never fully allow the free flowing play we see in the NBA, but at least the game can continue to move that direction.
