Gilchrist vs Rivers

I got a chance to watch Michael Gilchrist's St. Patrick team take on Austin Rivers Winter Park last night. Gilchrist finished with 23 points and 15 rebounds in a win while Rivers scored 38 and seemed to explode in the second half. While both players look good I have to say that Austin Rivers has one of the sweetest strokes I have seen in a long time and his offense is far advanced - he will score a lot in college. Gilchrist's shot had a hitch to it and every time he shot the ball it made me cringe. His strength offensively is defenitely getting to the rim. Defense was another story as Gilchrist put on a dominating performance at that end of the court, while Austin Rivers seemed to play laxidasical on defense and wait to get the ball back on offense. This was surprising to me as Rivers Fater, Doc, is coach of the Boston Celtics and his team is known for great defense.

So who is the better player. Well I have to admit that Austin Rivers is teeming with talent. He already has NBA ready offense, and if he can learn to play at both ends of the floor, which he has the supreme athletisism to do, then he could be the next Kobe Bryant. Gilchrist will see a lot of minutes in college because of his tremendous defensive abilities, and if he developes a nice shot- which will take a lot of work and a redefining of his mechanics - then Gilchrist could end up being a great player too.

P.S. F--- DUKE go UK