MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — Known for his shot-blocking, Sagaba Konate enjoyed some shot-making for a change during a 20-point performance Monday night.
The sophomore center, a 4.3-points per game career scorer, made 8-of-10 shots by mixing low-post moves with midrange jumpers as No. 23 West Virginia beat Long Beach State 91-62.
Konate attributed the offensive confidence to the mentorship of assistant Erik Martin during practice followed by individual shooting sessions with a team manager after study hall.
“It’s step-by-step,” said Konate, whose scoring didn’t detract him from swatting four shots. “As a freshman last year I was only a role player, so this year I want to show I know what to do.