22.02.12
It would be too simplistic to say the Saint John Mill Rats released four players this week for what they were not. At the minor pro level all players have holes in their game. If they didn't they wouldn't be here.
It's more accurate to say that Dele Ojo, Sherton Sanderson, Sani Ibrahim and Marc Egerson were let go for what they were not for this team.
It starts with the Mill Rats' core. In Will Blalock and Anthony Anderson Saint John has probably the most dynamic backcourt in the National Basketball League of Canada. Antoine Tisby has turned into the scoring centre coach Jaren Jackson has coveted since coming here two years ago.
Steve DeLuca's game has progressed to where he is now more than just one of the NBL's best spot-up shooters.
With a record of 4-4 when the move was made, the question became were the pieces around these four players the right fit?
Ojo provided too little offence off the bench. Sanderson lacked experience. Sani Ibrahim failed to provide the rebounding Jackson thought he would, averaging 3.17 boards per game. Playing the 6-10 Nigerian with Tisby, clogged the lane and reduced Tisby's effectiveness in the paint.
Source: CanadaEast.com