Dana Altman praises offseason efforts, progression of Oregon forward Nate Bittle
Last season, there were a few instances when Oregon coach Dana Altman hinted that he wasn’t overly pleased with what the program was getting from former 5-star signee Nate Bittle.
The No. 24 overall player and the No. 3 center in the class of 2021, Bittle is one of the top recruits to ever sign with the Ducks. The Central Point, Ore., native arrived in Eugene last summer with no shortage of hype but didn’t necessarily hit the ground running.
Bittle played in 20 games and averaged 1.7 points and 1.9 rebounds while playing 7.0 minutes per game. His best game of the season came in Oregon’s home win over Pepperdine when he scored eight points and tallied four blocks.
Afterward, Altman praised the performance but also delivered a challenge to his blue-chip freshman.
“We need to see that every day from him so he can do it consistently,” Altman said of Bittle. “He’s capable of that. His God-given talent is very good. Those long arms, his instincts are good.
“You’ve gotta really compete and earn stuff in practice… He got a chance tonight and he took advantage of it. Now bring it on (Dec. 27) when we start practice again.”
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After the Ducks’ season ended in underwhelming fashion last March, it sounds as though Bittle has taken his coach’s messages to heart.
On Tuesday, Altman met with reporters and was asked which players have made significant improvements during the offseason.
The first player he mentioned was Bittle.
“Nate Bittle, first of all — I was after Nate all last year,” Altman said. “He and I had more conversations about playing harder, working harder. But I’m really pleased with his efforts. He’s bringing it in practice, trying to play through some bumps and bruises. Working on his body a little bit.
“So, he’s made a big jump.”
That’s a positive sign for Bittle, who will have to battle for minutes this season in a crowded Oregon front court. Last year’s starting center, N’Faly Dante, is back and fully healthy.
While Franck Kepgnang and Isaac Johnson have both transferred away from the program, the Ducks reloaded by bringing in 5-star center Kel’el Ware, the No. 6 player in the class of 2022 according to the On3 Consensus.
Additionally, 6-foot-8 forward Quincy Guerrier is back after starting all 35 games last season.
