INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (Jan. 26, 2016) – Butler head coach Chris Holtmann has called for improved toughness on the defensive end this season before. Today, add offensive efficiency to his list of requests. The Bulldogs (13-6, 2-5 Big East) have failed to reach 70 points in three of their last four games, not surprisingly losing all three.
“I think we’ve made some strides defensively and some strides rebounding the ball,” said Holtmann. “We’re fifth in efficiency right now in our league in league play. Those numbers need to improve.”
One recent highlight for the Bulldogs has been the play of Kelan Martin. Coming off the bench, the sophomore forward has recorded three double-doubles in a row, averaging 19.7 points and 10.7 rebounds per game during that stretch.
“Coach always tells me he likes when I bring that pop off the bench, that energy and juice,” said Martin. “I think I’m playing that role pretty well… Just coming in, rebounding, playing defense, and being aggressive offensively,”
“I think his attention to detail has improved,” said Holtmann. “He’s rebounded well for us defensively, which has been a major issue for us.”
Next up, Butler will welcome DePaul into Hinkle Fieldhouse for a 7 p.m. tip off Wednesday night.
