2016-17 Buffalo Men’s Basketball Previews: “Big Shot” Blake Hamilton

He’s the extremely versatile small forward that helped prevent Buffalo from losing a year to rebuilding. “Big Shot” Blake Hamilton will be key in the Bulls bringing home their third consecutive MAC Championship.

The Basics

Number: 0

Year: Senior

Position: Wing

Hometown: Pasadena, California

Height: 6-6, 205 lbs.

New to Buffalo?

Again, you’re living under a rock if you think the answer is yes.

UB Career

Hamilton spent his freshman season at Northern Arizona. After not seeing eye-to-eye with the coaching staff, he played a year in the JUCO ranks at Mt. San Antonio College. While there, he averaged 13.5 points and 6.4 rebounds per game while shooting an astonishing 61.5% from the field.

Last season, Hamilton made his way to Buffalo after being recruited by Bryan Hodgson. He thrived last season as he became a matchup problem for many because of his ability to play four positions on the court. Like many of his teammates, Hamilton caught fire at the end of the season, averaging 17.5 points in his last nine games of the season.

With 1.8 seconds left on the clock, Blake Hamilton drilled the game winning shot to take Buffalo to their second-ever and second consecutive NCAA Tournament. It was a beautiful right corner three off of a perfectly drawn up play.

Further Reading and Viewing:

Bull Run: Hamilton Dominates in 77-60 win

The Bulls were once again lead by junior college transfer Blake Hamilton. The offensive revival was no doubt thanks to the Junior from Pasadena, CA. He finished the game with an impressive stat line: 22 points, 9 rebounds, and 4 assists.

Bull Run: Buffalo Bulls top Akron Zips 64-61 for second straight MAC Championship

Once again, the Bulls faced not only the MAC's regular season champion, but also the Coach of the Year and a team that had beaten them twice in regular-season play in East Division rivals Akron. In the end, a dagger three-pointer with two seconds left from junior Blake Hamilton iced the game 64-61 to send UB back to the NCAA Tournament.

2016-17 Outlook

Hamilton is going to be arguably the biggest piece to Buffalo’s run for another MAC title. He can shoot, generate assists, rebound, and play aggressive defense. He’s the literal definition of an all-around player. If Hamilton can consistently shoot the ball like he did at the end of last season, he’s virtually unstoppable.

Enjoy him while he’s here folks.