Tre Mann is a 6’5 sophomore who plays for the Florida Gators. Mann, who was a top prospect and McDonald’s All-American, has shown tremendous improvement and growth since his freshman year. Between his freshman and sophomore seasons, Mann grew an inch, gained strength, and improved his all around game. His growth shows in both his statistics and his leadership, maturity, and accountability on the court.
Mann started four times during his freshman season, but he wasn’t spectacular. He averaged 5 points per game, 1.9 rebounds per game, 0.7 assists per game, and 0.6 steals per game. Mann also shot 35% from the field, 27% from 3, and 65% from the free throw line. Expectations were high coming into Mann’s sophomore year, and he has most definitely met these expectations. Mann is averaging 15 points per game, 5.7 rebounds per game, 3 assists per game, and 1.5 steals per game. He’s shooting 45% from the field, nearly 40% from deep, and 83% from the free throw line.
Defensively, Mann can consistently bring awareness to the floor. He knows where to be in any situation and can defend the perimeter. Mann can get where he needs to be to get rebounds, which is a strength of his. Using his length, active hands, and quick feet, Mann’s defensive abilities make a noticeable impact on the floor. He’s able to force turnovers and grab loose balls, which he can capitalize off of in transition.
Mann’s offensive growth has been tremendous. Mann’s range has improved, and his creativity and craftiness around the rim has also been huge for his progress. He is very smooth, particularly when shooting, and a tough competitor who goes for any loose ball. While Mann often plays point guard, he’s a great off-ball player. Mann is capable of creating space for a shot or play by dropping his shoulder and has great range. Along with his craftiness around the rim, Mann’s offense can only grow.
While Mann’s play has shown improvement, he still has some room for improvement. Mann is sometimes inconsistent, and he can get into foul trouble early. Because he has trouble limiting fouls early in the game, he can’t be as impactful for the entirety of the game. Mann could also become more confident, particularly in his shot. Because of his abilities to create and his range, Mann could be taking many more shots throughout the game.
For his future, Mann has a few different options. His stock can only grow if he returns to Florida, as he could become a much higher draft pick and lead his team to more wins. If Mann enters the draft, he is a likely second round pick. At this point in the season, Mann has been showing more growth and improvement. This is huge for his team’s potential in March and his future as a basketball player.
Photo: Palm Beach Post