I have a novel concept-how about being fans for Damian Johnson and Colton Iverson? For that matter, how bout Al Nolen, Lawrence Westbrook, RS III, Devoe Joseph, Justin Cobbs, Blake Hoffarber, Paul Carter, Rodney Williams, and even Devron Bostick and Trevor Mbawke?
I can understand the reticence about Royce White (and to a lesser degree Mbawke, although it looks like those charges are either phantom or improvable), but I never get the strong criticism and/or dismissal of our players who, to our knowledge, represent the "U" with class on the court, never make the police blotter, and work their tails off for our enjoyment. Yes, they are handsomely rewarded with a full scholarship, but I don't believe that opens up the floodgates for criticism. Is either DJ or Iverson a perfect player? Most certainly not, but it is unfathomable to me that someone cannot acknowledge how valuable DJ has been to the Gophers as a bridge along with Westbrook from the dark days of Monson's last year to leading the team to (hopefully) consecutive NCAA berths. And why are shots being taken today at Iverson who stepped up for the Gophers last night in a big game? Perhaps last night will be the best night ever of Iverson's Gopher career or perhaps it a seed for the confidence and understanding of a developing sophomore big man to figuring out how to become an effective post player against top flight competition. Whichever it is-great game Colt! Thanks for the contributions!
And before anyone accuses me of living in a Sid Hartman-esque type bubble where criticism of our Gophers can never occur, I am a critic-even though my ability to watch the games is severely curtailed these past couple years, I do wonder if Al Nolen has what it takes to lead this team as its point guard, I have thought Westbrook can be a bit reckless with his shot selection at times, and I do want RSIII to become more physical in the post. That being said, I'm a fan of all three and I certainly hope they continue to improve and grow. When Gopher fans start making statements such as "I'm not a fan of ________ because blah, blah, blah" it makes me wince. Unless you're saying you're not a fan because they broke the law, embarrassed the program, or give a subpar effort, I hate that sentence. It reminds me of the embarrassing behavior exhibited often by our fan base towards Kevin Burleson when he was here. Burleson was often erratic in his decision making on the court and would leave me befuddled by his actions, but he never deserved the venom spewed his way by "fans".
One last thing-this doesn't have to be an either/or game; you can like DJ and Paul Carter; you can like Iverson and RSIII; and right on down the line. Yes, it's part of the age old debate in sports and this Gopher squad with the various possibilities does offer many such debates, but part of the beauty of this team seems to be their ability to pick one another up through their depth, variety of skills, and cohesiveness.
