Wake Forest’s loss in the NCAA Tournament this season wasn’t just the end of the season for the Deacs, it also marked the end of Ish Smith’s career for the black and gold. Since his freshman season, Ish has been the dominant ballhandler for the Demon Deacons and now they will have to find someone who can step up and run the offense. While C.J. Harris is a competent, smart guard, he isn’t the pure point guard that Smith was, and it’s probably going to fall on the shoulders of Tony Chennault (PG, 6’2″, 2010) to organize the offense.
Chennault isn’t the blistering speedster that Wake fans are used to from Ish Smith, but he brings toughness and scoring that will likely fit in well with the style the Deacs play. Wake fans will love Chennault’s toughness as he moves to the hoop, it’s a bit like watching a gifted running back tear through gaps in a defensive line. He also is an excellent passer and can finish in the lane or with running floaters. Double teaming Chennault is a dangerous ploy, because his court vision is strong enough for him to quickly find the open man.
With Harris returning the SG spot, the Deacons should benefit from smart, competitive basketball from the backcourt.