Now that we are almost one-third of the way through the regular season, here is the first post in a position by position grading of the players’ performance so far. Let’s start with the point guard.

What more can you say about a Ronald Moore who averages nearly an assist per game more than Kentucky’s John Wall to lead the nation with 8 apg? Well here’s a try: In only ten games, Moore has 3 double-digit assist efforts, while his highest mark for turnovers is just 7 against St. John’s. His current 3/1 assist/turnover ratio is the best of his college career. Even though he is playing more than anyone on the team (33.8 mpg), he still has the legs to maintain his usual 8.5 ppg and has shown the ability to put up over 15 in a given night. These stats say a lot about Moore’s impact, but anyone who has watched him play knows the box score rarely reveals his contributions. He may be the best guard in the MAAC in breaking a full court press with the dribble, and his speed makes him a solid on-ball defender. Also, his improved pull-up jumper has made opponents respect his range, which is creating more seams to drive to the basket.

The scary thing is that Ronald would have collected even more assists if it hadn’t been for a string of poor shooting performances by the team. During the Georgia Tech game in particular, Saints players were missing lay-ups and close range jumpers. If the team is able to find its offensive groove in the upcoming months, he has a great chance to remain near the top of the NCAA in the assists category. Moore is a player who shouldn’t be taken for granted by Siena fans and students. Denzel Yard has shown some flashes in short playing time, but with him being a freshman it may be at least another couple of years until we see a point guard of Moore’s caliber.

PG Grade: A-