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A former 3-star recruit and key member of the Nebraska bench mob last year, Nana Akenten seems to have found his role as the sixth man, specializing in sharp shooting.
Akenten had the opportunity to redshirt, but told head coach Tim Miles he wouldn’t to get his feet wet, playing a total of 21 minutes the entire season. Looking back, maybe he should’ve redshirted. Same goes for Thorir Thorbjarnarson, but here we are.
Coming off the bench first in the exhibition game against Wayne State last Thursday night, Akenten finished with eight points in 12 minutes, shooting 1-3 from behind the arc. He also had a highlight reel, and-one reverse layup, but BTN didn’t put that in the highlights of the game.
After the exhibition game, the Huskers kryptonite might’ve been revealed. Their depth. The starting lineup remains one of the best in the Big Ten, but after Akenten and Amir Harris, it gets a little shaky. This is why the play of Akenten will be so important down the stretch, because the top four can’t do everything.
Another stat that raises concern was the Huskers three point percentage, shooting 4-of-26. Akenten needs to complement that stat along with Thomas Allen, because the rest of the team did not have a great showing the other night. Obviously it’s the beginning of the season and everyone is still a little rusty, but if those shooting woes continue, the Huskers could be in trouble.
Akenten’s role in the lineup will be like I said before, the sixth man providing a three point threat. He will most likely replace Allen and James Palmer Jr. when he comes on the floor. He definitely has an opportunity to make his presence felt as he tries to get the Huskers to March Madness, as well as lockup his spot in the starting lineup next season.
Nebraska opens up against Mississippi Valley State University on Tuesday night at 8 PM. Only way to watch the game, however, will be on BTN+, so get those subscriptions in! You can also of course listen to the wonderful announcer Kent Pavelka on Husker Sports Network, so you choose. GBR!