The lowest point was probably the game against Purdue. Kenny Kadji, The University of Miami’s heralded F/C transfer from Florida, played only 2 minutes in a 76-65 loss, registering a single turnover. It was basically a DNP-CD for a player expected to contribute heavily to a depleted Hurricanes frontline.
Then, three games later, Reggie Johnson returned to the Hurricanes lineup and, while he hasn’t brought wins with him (the team is 6-3 since his return, 5-4 prior), he has turned Kadji’s season around. The numbers are staggering.
Prior to Reggie’s return, Kadji was averaging 7.3 ppg on 48% shooting, with 4.6 rebounds and 1.5 blocks per game. He attempted 5 3-pointers in the 9 games without Reggie, hitting 3.
Since Reggie rejoined the team, Kadji is averaging 17.4 ppg on 59% shooting, with 6.5 rebounds and 1.8 blocks per game. He’s attempted 21 3-pointers, making 9.
At his core, Kadji is a very good stretch 4, capable of working inside with his length and quickness, and outside with a pretty reliable (46% on the year) 3 point shot. He’s more Chris Bosh than pure center, which was the role he was forced into with both Reggie and center Julian Gamble hurt (Gamble has yet to return). In fact, if the guard play (outside of Shane Larkin) wasn’t so bad, Miami would be a tournament team, instead of 11-7 and fighting just to get on the bubble.
If Reggie and Kenny both return next year for their Senior seasons, Miami could contend for an ACC title.
