While I agree with you on point, remember that the only returning player from last year that played large minutes in Ben’s system is Battle. 4 new starters, so to speak are in it for the first time. I will agree however that I think the defense should be better. We need to be better on the ball. Are we capable, it appears not, but I’m hoping for some tweaks that will improve it during the brunt of the rest of the season.
The product we see doesn’t show it except for the guys not quitting on games. People around the program can attest to my point. Believe it or not is your choice. It’s more than being “nice” guys although this staff does put a premium on character.
Sadly at this level, results are required. They don’t do participation awards. **assuming that there is an ncaa equivalent to the NFL man of the year award, it would be cool for a gopher to win that, but I’d trade that for actual results.
I guarantee you when he took the job he knew the turnover would be massive and the only ones really asked to come back were Gabe, Ihnen, Johnson, Curry (as a GA initially), and Both. The others were either gone for sure or not welcomed back. he landed 2 of 5 and it’s fine to be critical of that if you’d like but it’s not a terrible percentage for a locker room that was that bad. Indiana for example had a decent locker room and was able to keep a bunch of their guys.
C'mon it's a holiday weekend and that require too much effort
Said if you could not contend by year 5 or 6 that you do not win the conference or get to a final 4. The previous regime was historically bad over the 8 seasons. Your right in my opinion that it does not mean this was the best replacement or even equal but that change was beyond necessary.
It’s not sad at all. I’m not advocating for participation trophies or making any excuses. Just stating some facts that I know.
I would even be more ok with losing if they lost in a fun way / played a fun brand of basketball
Here is the question (Loblaw asked) Built answered:
and play defense...
This is a great post. Replacement was necessary. It doesn’t mean this replacement was equal, worse or better. Johnson deserves some time and I think he’ll be given it. Especially if recruiting stays above average
I find winning regardless of how it’s done to be fun. Typically it’s about matching a style to the players or vise versa. Also means buy in and work towards said system. My only disappointment with this staff is like some others have mentioned. I expected us to defend better. Metrically we have been terrible. Year 1 was a depth thing, year 2 is a youth thing. If it’s not better next year then I’ll probably be off the wagon.
...well... it's fun until you get caught cheating, which has been the m. o. of Gopher basketball history.
And..................?
Good call, I should’ve clarified to mean playing style. I do not want to cheer for a team who cheats. Agreed on the patience
To be clear, the only real cheating nowadays is academic, right? (Since paying players via NIL is part of the game)
South Dakota state is ranked higher than the gophers, this win against UST was expected… they would most likely win against the gophers.
There is still rules with NIL although they don’t seemed to be enforced. I prefer the idea of guys coming here and earning their bag with their play.
Why does anyone care what Michigan does?
Just an observation. Pitino is coaching right now. For New Mexico.
Xavier was 23-13 and won the NIT the year before Miller took over.
We shall see at the conclusion of this season if players choose to leave. I think the culture term is grossly overused and doesn't always mean much.
Why does anyone care what Xavier does?
Not sure.