While all the attention is on Vanderbilt’s top-15 recruiting class, it would be a mistake to forget about sophomore Saben Lee.
The 6-2 combo guard emerged as one of the Commodores’ top playmakers a season ago, and he should play an even bigger role this year on a team that has a lot of new faces.
Lee is a natural fit for Bryce Drew’s system, and that system should finally be on display in its entirety this season.
Also, it doesn’t hurt that a future NBA point guard in Darius Garland now on the roster, which will help Lee find plenty of opportunities for success.
Inside the Numbers
Lee is Vanderbilt’s only returning double-digit scorer, as he averaged 10.6 points in 26.8 minutes per game.
He was the team’s leader in total steals (39) and assists (99) while starting 29 games.
It was also a positive that he shot 46.2 percent from the floor, with his ability to drive the lane allowing him to find a good amount of high-percentage shots.
Lee shot just 30.7 percent from 3-point range on 75 attempts, and becoming more of a threat from outside was like a focus this offseason.
2018-19 Season Outlook
When I asked Drew at SEC Media Day about Lee’s development heading into his second season, the third-year coach was quick point out how the system changes will make a huge difference.
“I think he’ll thrive more in a faster-paced game where the floor is a little more open,” Drew said. “We definitely plan on playing a lot faster and opening up the floor.”
If that turns out to be the case, look out.
Lee has tremendous athleticism, and again, his ability to attack the lane off the dribble will be a huge asset in the revamped system.
If he becomes a more dynamic threat from outside, Lee could be among the SEC’s top sophomore scorers this season.