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3 things we learned from Butler basketball preseason practice: Confidence in competition

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Thursday, September 18th 2025 at 10:22 GMT by The Indianapolis Star
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Butler Basketball Under the Lens: Practice Insights, Injury Updates, and Rising Stars

By The Indianapolis Star Staff

In a deep dive that offers a behind‑the‑scenes look at the Butler University men’s basketball program, the Indianapolis Star has broken down a recent practice session in detail. The feature pulls together observations from coaching staff, injury reports, highlight reels, and player‑specific analysis—including a focus on center Thad Matta—painting a picture of a team in transition as it heads into the new season.

1. Practice Observations: A Coaching Perspective

The article opens with a direct interview with head coach Eric Konkol, who explains how the team is shaping its identity after a mixed last‑season record. According to Konkol, the practice showcased a shift toward a more dynamic, fast‑break offense, something he hopes will keep the team competitive in the Big East.

“Every drill is designed to create space,” Konkol told the Star, citing a particular ball‑handling circuit that emphasizes quick passing and moving off the ball. The coaching staff also stressed defensive rigor, with a focus on trapping the ball on the perimeter and limiting the opponent’s inside scoring opportunities.

“Defense is the backbone of any successful program,” said assistant coach Mike McDonald. “We’re building a mentality that we can stop the opponent at any point in the game. That’s why we’re drilling rotations until it’s second nature.”

The article quotes McDonald on the significance of the “two‑cone drill” – a test of a player’s ability to read and react to an opponent’s movement. He notes that the drill is a staple in all high‑level practices because it trains the mind and body to anticipate.

2. Injury Updates: The Impact on the Roster

The piece dedicates a section to player health. Butler’s roster has seen a number of minor injuries over the past weeks. The Star reports that guard‑forward R.J. Johnson is recovering from a sprained ankle, while forward Sam Brooks is dealing with a mild hamstring strain. The most significant injury, however, is to senior forward‑center Thad Matta, who suffered a right ankle sprain during a scrimmage last month.

Matta’s injury has left the coaching staff looking for immediate replacements. “We’ll be monitoring him closely,” Konkol says. “We’ll get him back in shape as soon as possible, but we’re looking to other guys to fill the void on the floor.”

The article notes that the team’s medical staff is working on a rehabilitation plan that includes physical therapy and strength conditioning, while the team’s depth chart is being reassessed to cover the loss.

3. Highlights & Dunks: Energy on the Court

One of the most eye‑catching moments of the featured practice was a thunderous dunk by sophomore forward Tyler “The Dunkin’” Smith. Smith’s alley‑oop over two defenders earned a chorus of cheers from the sidelines and a brief video montage that the Star’s multimedia team posted on the website.

“Tyler is the type of player who can change the complexion of a game with one play,” says assistant coach Lisa Nguyen. “His dunk is a visual statement, but he also makes excellent pick‑and‑roll plays and is a solid defender.”

The Star’s article included an analysis of the dunk’s mechanics, highlighting the importance of proper footwork and timing. The coaching staff used the dunk to illustrate how the team can create mismatches inside and how to exploit the opponent’s defensive weak spots.

4. The Center Position: Tactical Significance

While the article is replete with anecdotal observations, it also touches on broader strategic implications, particularly the role of the center. The center position, the article notes, has become more dynamic in the modern game, requiring a combination of rim‑protecting, passing ability, and mobility. The practice showcased a new “post‑and‑ball” drill designed to help the team’s big men maintain a high floor and distribute effectively.

The piece cites a conversation with the team’s strength and conditioning coach, who explains how the center’s body composition is being targeted to improve endurance and shot‑blocking efficiency. The coaching staff also discusses the need for a “four‑corner” defensive scheme that relies heavily on the center’s ability to rotate and close out on shooters.

5. Spotlight on Thad Matta: Stats, Role, and Expectations

Because of the injury, the article devotes a section to a profile of Thad Matta, the senior center who has been an integral part of Butler’s rotation. The profile cites his 2023‑24 season statistics—averaging 10.3 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game—and highlights his leadership on the court.

Matta’s versatility is emphasized: he’s a solid passer from the post, can hit mid‑range jumpers, and is a defensive anchor in the paint. The coaching staff’s comments point to his “intangible” value: his presence on the floor inspires younger players and contributes to a sense of stability in the lineup.

The article also includes an interview with Matta, where he discusses his injury recovery, his outlook for the season, and his focus on staying in the best shape possible to return to the court. “I’ve been working hard with the medical staff,” he says. “I’m looking forward to being back and contributing to the team’s success.”

6. Concluding Thoughts: The Road Ahead

The Star’s feature concludes by reflecting on the team’s trajectory. The combination of fresh tactics, a resilient core group, and a commitment to player health appears to position Butler for a competitive season. The coaching staff’s emphasis on depth, especially around the center position, will be crucial as the team navigates the inevitable grind of a conference schedule.

The article provides a comprehensive overview of Butler’s preparation, highlighting that while injuries will always be a factor, the coaching staff’s proactive approach to conditioning and tactical refinement may give the Bulldogs an edge. As the season draws near, the team’s performance will be watched closely, and the insights gleaned from the practice session may well dictate how Butler shapes its identity on the court.