His face may look familiar, but to UF coach Billy Donovan, second-year forward Dan Werner is still a freshman.
"They (the sophomore class) stepped in a situation last year where they saw the trust I had for those guys, and they're probably looking and saying right now, 'It's a lot more intense on the court today than it was a year ago,'" Donovan said. "So, in essence, we're coaching eight freshmen.
"Although their bodies have changed, they're still trying to develop that mental toughness that maybe they didn't tap into last year."
Werner and fellow frontcourt mates Jonathan Mitchell and Marreese Speights constitute the Gators' sophomore class.
Among the three, Werner saw the most playing time as a freshman - averaging 8.9 minutes per game.
This edge has led to a higher standard in Donovan's eyes for the 6-foot-7 forward, who has disappointed early on.
"The one guy that I thought could have had a much better summer and off-season was Dan," Donovan said. "He came in with about 14 percent body fat but has gotten his weight down and is in better shape than he was."
Donovan said Werner has been improving every day of practice, and has begun to turn the corner as the season draws near.
"At first I have to admit I was disappointed," Donovan said. "But lately, and especially these past three days, I was very pleased with Werner and the strides he has made."
Werner had a rough first season, averaging only 1.3 points per game and shooting just 22 percent from beyond the arc.
Although discouraging, Werner's biggest issue may not stem from his skill set or athleticism.
"He can not be an effective player at this level unless he has that mentality of all or nothing on the floor," Donovan said. "Rug burns, floor burns, whatever you want to call it. Tough rebounds, be physical, just play hard. We don't have anyone good enough to just go out there, be loose, play and be effective. He needs to give his all."
Werner said the process of going through ups-and-downs is normal. He also expects to improve upon last season.
"As far as my shooting and stuff like that, my freshman year in high school I kind of went through the same thing," Werner said. "My sophomore year I was a lot better. I think my confidence is going to come around a lot more."
Werner is sure to see a rise in playing time this season. Donovan noted that he might even use Werner as a center when the team decides to play with a smaller lineup.
This could pose a threat for opposing squads, as Werner plans to use his ability in knocking down outside shots to stretch the defense.
He also said he will use his size and strength to become a dual threat, and has spent as much time working on rebounding as he has on shooting during the off-season.
"Last year I felt like I got in there and I couldn't even see where the basket was," he said.
"But now it feels a lot more comfortable. I think I have a lot more to look forward to this year."
