The Florida Gator men’s basketball team play the Lynn Fighting Knights in an exhibition game at the Stephen C. O’Connell Center. Tip-off is at 7 p.m.

Roaring expectations

The preseason AP poll ranks the Gators at No. 6, which matches the second-highest preseason ranking in program history (No. 1 in 2006-07, No. 6 in 2001-02). AP voters also placed a multitude of Gators on watchlists for national awards this season.

It is safe to say that expectations for Mike White’s squad this year are high. The 2019 recruiting class included two McDonald’s All-Americans: Tre Mann and Scottie Lewis, along with 6’10” forward Omar Payne.

Gators head coach Mike White said he’s impressed with the freshman on his squad. He expects them to improve in all aspects of their game throughout the season.

#Gators @MikeWhiteUF says his freshman have shown great potential on defense early in practice. He looks forward to seeing how mentally tough the team is this season. @ESPNGainesville — Steven Walker (@swalker_7) October 24, 2019

Transfer leadership

White cited graduate-transfer Kerry “KJ” Blackshear Jr. as an emerging leader on the team. He said that it’s rare to have someone like Blackshear who has so much game experience in a locker room.

https://twitter.com/SEC/status/1184512037973647360

Blackshear averaged 14.9 points per game for Virginia Tech last season en route to an All-ACC season. He was recognized by the SEC as the Preseason SEC player of the year, so it’s safe to say that expectations for him are high.

KJ will look to add leadership and experience to a Gators squad that will start four underclassmen this season.

Heading into tip-off

The projected starting line-up against Lynn includes (G) Andrew Nembhard, (G) Noah Locke, (G) Scottie Lewis, (F) Kerry Blackshear, and (F) Keyontae Johnson.

With Mike White historically emphasizing defense for his teams, look for him to experiment with different zone schemes against Lynn. Working in different defenses early could help his freshman gain confidence in his system, which can foster big plays later in the season.

Look for White to substitute often. In a game that has little significance and that the Gators should win easily, younger players can get the opportunity to play minutes and gain experience.