Hendrix dominating boards for Crimson Tide

TUSCALOOSA | Mark Gottfried calls it "great hands".

It is Richard Hendrix's ability to scoop up every basketball he can touch -- which the 6-foot-9 junior center is doing 10.5 times per game for the University of Alabama.

“I think what makes him such a good rebounder is that, No. 1,he has a great body and great hands," Gottfried said Monday during his weekly news conference.

"Also, when he can get his fingers on it, he can secure it. Coaches joke around that some players have bad hands. Richard is the opposite, What he touches he secures."

Gottfried also was complimentary of Hendrix's on-court knowledge, and how the Tide will need all of it -- in addition to his 19.4 points per game -- when it faces Mississippi State on Wednesday in Starkville, Miss.

"Also, he has a high basketball IQ. He can read where the ball is going, when it is shot from one side of the floor and the need to get to a certain spot. He has all those things you want. Also, part of the improvement is his redefined body. It has helped him play more minutes and helped him be more productive while he is in there."

Alabama (13-9, 2-5) takes on Mississippi State (14-7, 5-2) at 7 p.m. Wednesday at Humphrey Coliseum. The game is not televised, but will be broadcast locally on 1420 AM and 105.9 FM.

Reach David Wasson at david.wasson@tuscaloosanews.com or at 205-722-0229.