1. Heal quickly and completely, Tyler.
2. Clingan vs Edey in a national semifinal with MU on the other side of the bracket would be fun to watch.
3. Can't have two starters disappear for a half and one for the entire game and expect to beat that team.
4. The only hope was to make it rain from 3 and keep UConn from doing the same.
5. Rebounding. But that is known. UConn is relentless on the O boards.
6. I really like UConn's off ball screening. Creates post up space. Creates cuts to the rim. Created space for Karaban and Spencer.
7. UConn does not help on defense. They didn't with Kolek playing. They do not leave 3 pt shooters.
8. Tre Norman produces and takes minutes from Ross.
9. Stevie gets two strong offensive rebounds and makes two poor decisions. Out of character. But his motor continues even when things look oblique.
10. If MU had shot their season average from the free throw line.... it would not have changed the outcome, but it wouldn't have been as frustrating.
11. Not sure Joplin dribbling was the play call. Certainly not the right one.
12. No quit, though. A trademark of this team is their heart and fight. Hat tip to Shaka and the culture he has created.
13. Beat Xavier
The Other Team Had Better Players.
What a $hit Spencer is. Chirps the crowd on the way out...
Spencer earned the right. One way to stop him.
No quit in the boys. Tre was a bright spot
f#CK Spencer...hope they get knocked out early
UCONN is that good. Seemed like they win a large majority of 50/50 balls.
Going to need someone not expected to be on the roster (Kolek Shakaing the world or a transfer) to run the point next year. If Kolek leaves and our point is on the roster, feels bubbly. Need someone who can break down the defense and be relied on to get things moving.
Joplin is good at 3 pt shooting. Joplin's is terrible at dribbling. What play should we run down 5 to the number 2 team in the nation?
Of course, clear out for Joplin to dribble in an attempt to get a 2 point shot.
Free throws matter. We could have been down 2 instead of 5 at the end which would've changed our strategy. Great effort though by our guys. Eff PukeConn.
Quote from: tower912 on March 06, 2024, 09:49:25 PM
1. Heal quickly and completely, Tyler.
2. Clingan vs Edey in a national semifinal with MU on the other side of the bracket would be fun to watch.
3. Can't have two starters disappear for a half and one for the entire game and expect to beat that team.
4. The only hope was to make it rain from 3 and keep UConn from doing the same.
5. Rebounding. But that is known. UConn is relentless on the O boards.
6. I really like UConn's off ball screening. Creates post up space. Creates cuts to the rim. Created space for Karaban and Spencer.
7. UConn does not help on defense. They didn't with Kolek playing. They do not leave 3 pt shooters.
8. Tre Norman produces and takes minutes from Ross.
9. Stevie gets two strong offensive rebounds and makes two poor decisions. Out of character. But his motor continues even when things look oblique.
10. If MU had shot their season average from the free throw line.... it would not have changed the outcome, but it wouldn't have been as frustrating.
11. Not sure Joplin dribbling was the play call. Certainly not the right one.
12. No quit, though. A trademark of this team is their heart and fight. Hat tip to Shaka and the culture he has created.
13. Beat Xavier
Low blow on the timing of this
They're very good but we beat ourselves when we had a legitimate chance. I'm also wondering if we'd be better off having Stevie run the Point for stretches when Tyko is out. Kam looked complete gassed to me. It's not a secret that we need Kolek to be healthy.
If you are expecting a barely used frosh PG to look like the answer against two top 10 teams I think you're fucking nuts.
Quote from: MUEng92 on March 06, 2024, 09:53:53 PM
Joplin is good at 3 pt shooting. Joplin's is terrible at dribbling. What play should we run down 5 to the number 2 team in the nation?
Of course, clear out for Joplin to dribble in an attempt to get a 2 point shot.
We had the ball with about 30 secs left down 5. Needless to say that wasn't good both before and after the time-out.
Down 5 with 24 seconds left it takes needing a near miracle to tie/win.
But that does not mean you have to draw up the play that is a literal miracle if it works.
I blame Muggsy & Goose for jinxing MU
disappointing end to reg season here with injuries and results. need to pull out the win at xavier
Can't fault the effort. We were missing a first team all american. On to the next.
Quote from: MUEng92 on March 06, 2024, 09:53:53 PM
Joplin is good at 3 pt shooting. Joplin's is terrible at dribbling. What play should we run down 5 to the number 2 team in the nation?
Of course, clear out for Joplin to dribble in an attempt to get a 2 point shot.
If you seriously think Jop dribbling into the lane was the call you should delete your account and never post here again.
Quote from: MUEng92 on March 06, 2024, 09:53:53 PM
Joplin is good at 3 pt shooting. Joplin's is terrible at dribbling. What play should we run down 5 to the number 2 team in the nation?
Of course, clear out for Joplin to dribble in an attempt to get a 2 point shot.
You can't honestly believe that was the play called.
Beat me to it, Vander
Quote from: PGsHeroes32 on March 06, 2024, 09:56:11 PM
Down 5 with 24 seconds left it takes needing a near miracle to tie/win.
But that does not mean you have to draw up the play that is a literal miracle if it works.
Come on, dude.
Blows my mind how many think that play call was for Jop.
Quote from: ATL MU Warrior on March 06, 2024, 09:55:03 PM
If you are expecting a barely used frosh PG to look like the answer against two top 10 teams I think you're unnatural carnal knowledgeing nuts.
I wasn't. I've been saying since the Sean Jones injury that we'd need a transfer point guard next year.
Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on March 06, 2024, 09:58:28 PM
If you seriously think Jop dribbling into the lane was the call you should delete your account and never post here again.
Half the game thread thought so lol.
I can forgive Jop for the physical mistake leading to the turnover, but I cannot forgive him for missing that three at the buzzer to cost MU a cover.
A lot more deflated than I would have thought. The uncertainty of Tyler doubles the sting of this loss: and the uncertainty of these next couple games and tanking to a 4 seed triples the sting. Anyone got a silver lining. :0
Stevie made some offensive errors by driving too much and bit on Spencer's shot fakes twice, but what a player he is. The hustle is just completely insane and adds such energy for the team.
I also believe his play tonight on the defensive side should have him as BE Defensive Player of Year.
Quote from: Johnny B on March 06, 2024, 10:00:14 PM
A lot more deflated than I would have thought. The uncertainty of Tyler doubles the sting of this loss: and the uncertainty of these next couple games and tanking to a 4 seed triples the sting. Anyone got a silver lining. :0
We're not sinking to a 4 seed in the BET or the Big Dance and Tyler will be back.
Feel better?
Quote from: Johnny B on March 06, 2024, 10:00:14 PM
A lot more deflated than I would have thought. The uncertainty of Tyler doubles the sting of this loss: and the uncertainty of these next couple games and tanking to a 4 seed triples the sting. Anyone got a silver lining. :0
No further injuries?
I mean the call was clearly to get Jop a look at the 3 point line. The problem with the call is UCONN would've given up an uncontested layup in order to prevent any MU 3 point attempt. And Shaka has to know that. So Jop was going to have to put the ball on the deck there. Needed to run it for Kam, who can at least create some space off the bounce.
Quote from: wadesworld on March 06, 2024, 10:00:00 PM
I wasn't. I've been saying since the Sean Jones injury that we'd need a transfer point guard next year.
Well I wasn't replying directly to you...lots of posts about it.
I thought Tre played pretty well tonight. Was really disappointed with Chase and Jolp.
Quote from: Johnny B on March 06, 2024, 10:00:14 PM
A lot more deflated than I would have thought. The uncertainty of Tyler doubles the sting of this loss: and the uncertainty of these next couple games and tanking to a 4 seed triples the sting. Anyone got a silver lining. :0
really gotta hope tyler can get healthy or this 2 year run we have had will have one of the most disappointing ends I have watched at MU. with the last however many years since our elite 8 that is saying something
Tre Norman is going to be awesome. Always in the right spot on D and starting to get comfortable offensively.
Quote from: ATL MU Warrior on March 06, 2024, 10:03:28 PM
Well I wasn't replying directly to you...lots of posts about it.
I thought Tre played pretty well tonight. Was really disappointed with Chase and Jolp.
I agree, I think Tre will be a solid contributor the next 3 years. I'm just not sold he's a point guard.
I know we won't have a Tyler Kolek level point guard. But we need someone who can collapse a defense some and dish out of it. That's not on the roster. Shaka's ability to develop his players makes it possible to find from within, but I have my doubts based on what I've seen.
Quote from: ATL MU Warrior on March 06, 2024, 10:03:28 PM
Well I wasn't replying directly to you...lots of posts about it.
I thought Tre played pretty well tonight. Was really disappointed with Chase and Jolp.
I'm giving Chase a pass tonight again. I am betting he is still recovering from a nasty bug.
Quote from: CountryRoads on March 06, 2024, 10:05:21 PM
I'm giving Chase a pass tonight again. I am betting he is still recovering from a nasty bug.
That's what I think as well.
OT:
Just like vs Creighton, it's super hard to retool an offense overnight.
With TK, it's hugely ball screen/PnR.
I'm not sure I see Sean or Tre (or anyone else on the roster) able to run a ball screen offense.
So, back to the Nevada Smith drawing board?
We need to find better flow in our h-c sets without Tyko. Lots of Iso ball and I feel like we are playing too fast.
-Too much help defense. Leaving UConn guys wide open from 3.
-Jop needs to hit the dribble versa equivalent this off season. So hard to watch. No control.
-Needed to get more open looks from 3 but it just didn't happen. Kudos to UConn D.
-Would have loved to see a little more dribble drive from gold
-I think we win that game with Kolek. Not worried.
UConn is bigger, faster, stronger.
They move, pass and cut super well.
They stay locked in on defense.
Hard team to beat. Harder without an all American.
Proud of the boys. Many times could have packed it in.
Get lost in the fight. Choose violence.
Beat Xavier this weekend, win one or more game(s) in the BET, get Tyler back healthy, and MU will be flying high going into the main event.
Quote from: wadesworld on March 06, 2024, 10:00:00 PM
I wasn't. I've been saying since the Sean Jones injury that we'd need a transfer point guard next year.
Many thought that Stevie and Kam (if he returns) can handle the PG duties next year. In the last two games both of them, along with Oso brought the ball up and handled the PG positions. Tre Norman did not.
To show what a good PG or the lack of one, can do to eliminate a stagnant offense here are the results of the last two games without Kolek:
Creighton game: CU 19 assists, MU 7 assists
UCONN game:UCONN 18 assists, MU 8 assists
Heck, Kolek averages 7 per game by himself. CU has Alexander, UCONN has Newton, etc. Maybe over the summer, someone on the roster can learn the concept of PG play and be a better facilitator. Not to the extent of a Kolek, but suitable and hope Shaka can land one of his 2025 PG targets.
MU held UConn to 2 points in the final 7 minutes.
Wow
Zero chance MU doesn't add another guard for next year if Kolek heads for the NBA.
Quote from: jesmu84 on March 06, 2024, 10:18:40 PM
MU held UConn to 2 points in the final 7 minutes.
Wow
I think they scored 4 points the final 8 mins.
MU has a great 10 second offense. After that, middling. If you want to be elite, MU also needs a half court offense. On Shaka and Nevada.
Quote from: Dr. Blackheart on March 06, 2024, 10:21:37 PM
MU has a great 10 second offense. After that, middling. If you want to be elite, MU also needs a half court offense. On Shaka and Nevada.
We had an elite offense last season. We've had a very good offense this season.
Are we really going to make statements like this based on the last two games?
Absolutely unreal that Mike Jakubowski had a bowling assignment tonight. He is a huge domino during home games.
Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on March 06, 2024, 09:58:28 PM
If you seriously think Jop dribbling into the lane was the call you should delete your account and never post here again.
Someone's lashing out again because he can't handle his emotions.
Quote from: Dr. Blackheart on March 06, 2024, 10:21:37 PM
MU has a great 10 second offense. After that, middling. If you want to be elite, MU also needs a half court offense. On Shaka and Nevada.
It's not one guy but Jop has a tendency to murder possessions if they get 15 seconds in.
Teams that are usually very good in late shot clock scenarios either play at a slow tempo and are comfortable in it, or have guys who shine in ISO and can get a bucket.
UConn is very good. Marquette at full strength is very good. UConn is beatable.
Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on March 06, 2024, 10:23:34 PM
We had an elite offense last season. We've had a very good offense this season.
Are we really going to make statements like this based on the last two games?
Have you watched Shaka over the entirety of his career? Great for sure but no sign of a half court offense.
Hurley is hard to dislike:
Dan Hurley on Cam Spencer's tech: "He's got to ring that in. There's some other fan bases and programs and I don't mind him sh*t-talking them, but I didn't like him doing it near their bench and to their fans... It's a classy program, it's a championship program..."
Let's be honest.......UCONN is just flat out better and more balanced. The outcome could have just as easily been exactly the same even if the creator was 100% healthy and played 37 min. They put up a decent effort but it's difficult to beat any team that shoots 50% or better from 3PT range, let alone a team like UCONN which is equally good in every other aspect of the game. There are going to be bumps in the road. Better to hit them now than 3 weeks from now. Onward.....
Quote from: Farley36 on March 06, 2024, 10:33:56 PM
Someone's lashing out again because he can't handle his emotions.
😘
Chase Ross was still battling the effects of being sick
Quote from: CountryRoads on March 06, 2024, 10:37:30 PM
Hurley is hard to dislike:
Dan Hurley on Cam Spencer's tech: "He's got to ring that in. There's some other fan bases and programs and I don't mind him sh*t-talking them, but I didn't like him doing it near their bench and to their fans... It's a classy program, it's a championship program..."
He also said Marquette losing TK is like the Chiefs losing Mahomes
Hurley loves Shaka and Marquette. Clearly has immense respect for the program.
More encouraged than discouraged. Rallied against the best team in the country, shut 'em down the final 7-8 minutes, just not quite good enough without our All-American.
Not gonna worry about 2024-25 PG play because I don't have to yet. It's still 2023-24, and the team still can reach every goal it set on Day 1 after our current PG comes back. And he will.
Loved the way Oso took it right to Clingan. Would have been nice if a couple more shots fell, but still felt he "won" the battle.
I actually am hoping Ross is still under the weather because that would at least explain his very rough outing.
I was impressed with Norman's second-half play. Composed, strong to the hoop, good D.
Nice to see Ben swish two 3s. Would have liked to have seen him get a chance to shoot a couple/few more.
Sucks that we didn't get a play off there near the end.
Waited way too long to foul when we only had 4 fouls. We let them dribble off 20 seconds before fouling, then let them do similar a little later. Needed to get to 6 faster so we could pick our spots to send them to the line.
Stevie was tough on D and even had 5 (!) offensive rebounds, but he seemed to have trouble getting a handle on the basketball all night. Playing against a great defensive team will do that, though.
I really like how Hurley handled the T by Spencer. Good coaching right there.
Can't wait for Saturday's game at Xavier. I'll be wearing gold and screaming my lungs out!
Shaka said in his post game that Chase was still feeling the effects of being sick - lost weight and not as much energy. We just need to get healthy and I think we can hang with anyone in the country.
Quote from: mugrad_89 on March 06, 2024, 10:59:02 PM
Shaka said in his post game that Chase was still feeling the effects of being sick - lost weight and not as much energy. We just need to get healthy and I think we can hang with anyone in the country.
Thanks for that update. That makes sense. Darn, it would have been nice to have had a full-strength Chase tonight. He'll be there in Cinci, though.
Excellent post MU82, spot on.
I agree on pretty much every point.
Only thing I would add is that I was very disappointed with how many loose balls and effort plays Marquette lost today, especially at home.
Maybe it just seemed that way, but there were several times where they just needed to get their hands on the ball strong, and it was as if they were trying to grab it and run too quick and it never worked. Extremely frustrating.
I've heard Shaka say in timeouts just grab the damn ball, and I felt that several times tonight.
Postgames had a lot of good comments. This team is so locked in on the tournament coming up. Much different vibe than last year. Seems they can't wait for it.
Quote from: mugrad_89 on March 06, 2024, 10:59:02 PM
Shaka said in his post game that Chase was still feeling the effects of being sick - lost weight and not as much energy. We just need to get healthy and I think we can hang with anyone in the country.
I wondered this. Fiserv was rockin, we had that game. Joplin needed to sit a lot more than he did (even though he had one incredible offensive and one defensive play). Been awhile since I've been really frustrated after a game, we had this game and made so many low iq plays. Damn
Quote from: DoctorV on March 06, 2024, 11:02:06 PM
Excellent post MU82, spot on.
I agree on pretty much every point.
Only thing I would add is that I was very disappointed with how many loose balls and effort plays Marquette lost today, especially at home.
Maybe it just seemed that way, but there were several times where they just needed to get their hands on the ball strong, and it was as if they were trying to grab it and run too quick and it never worked. Extremely frustrating.
I've heard Shaka say in timeouts just grab the damn ball, and I felt that several times tonight.
I thought in the first half UConn beat Marquette to the ball far too often; we needed to win the hustle plays. In the second half, I thought we were a lot more active but were a little unlucky a few times.
Quote from: MU82 on March 06, 2024, 11:04:52 PM
I thought in the first half UConn beat Marquette to the ball far too often; we needed to win the hustle plays. In the second half, I thought we were a lot more active but were a little unlucky a few times.
They destroyed us on the glass and getting to loose balls. Those extra possessions and reload threes are death. Our straight line Rhino drives were not a good tactical decision with Clingan and length waiting at the rim. Norman had a nice jump stop and controlled attack, but most of the other ones were out of control. What ever happened to the change of pace/direction dribble? Or the 5 foot floater? Tony Parker would have destroyed that defense as an example. We need to be smarter with our best player out.
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 06, 2024, 11:17:20 PM
Our straight line Rhino drives were not a good tactical decision with Clingan and length waiting at the rim. Norman had a nice jump stop and controlled attack, but most of the other ones were out of control. What ever happened to the change of pace/direction dribble? Or the 5 foot floater? Tony Parker would have destroyed that defense as an example. We need to be smarter with our best player out.
We were missing the leader of our offense and going up against a superior defensive team. It fundamentally changed the way we could play offense.
You make it sound like we were going up against DePaul out there. Very few teams have "destroyed that defense." And no team has done so when missing the NCAA assist leader and All-American.
Loved Shaka's postgame comment that if everyone fought like Stevie, we would never lose.
Quote from: CountryRoads on March 06, 2024, 11:04:00 PM
Postgames had a lot of good comments. This team is so locked in on the tournament coming up. Much different vibe than last year. Seems they can't wait for it.
Completely agree....this team has a plan for March.
Just got back from the game.
UConn is a very good team. And well coached.
Our effort was strangely poor at times. Kinda wonder if they're just ready for the post season.
Quote from: We R Final Four on March 06, 2024, 11:26:58 PM
Completely agree....this team has a plan for March.
We have lost both games in March. Clearly that plan is not working.
Quote from: 21Jumpstreet on March 06, 2024, 11:25:04 PM
Loved Shaka's postgame comment that if everyone fought like Stevie, we would never lose.
He expanded it to include that he wished he could have put Stevie on each of Newton, Spencer and Castle, "but there's only one Stevie."
Man, I feel like I'll need to pick UConn in my brackets but I loathe Spencer and their fanbase is trash.
Quote from: ATWizJr on March 06, 2024, 09:54:11 PM
Free throws matter. We could have been down 2 instead of 5 at the end which would've changed our strategy. Great effort though by our guys. Eff PukeConn.
100%. FT's do matter. FREEthrows. A fundamental that absolutely swings games.
If he was on your team, you would love him. Heck of a player.
82
I wish Ben would have gotten more looks as well, but UConn was not playing him soft, and he was struggling to get open in the slow half court offense. Kam and Jop both went iso a couple of times when they could have hit Ben wide open, but they kept dribbling. The offense is a work in progress with TK and the need to figure it out quickly if TK is out longer than we hope.
Quote from: Goose on March 07, 2024, 07:11:13 AM
82
I wish Ben would have gotten more looks as well, but UConn was not playing him soft, and he was struggling to get open in the slow half court offense. Kam and Jop both went iso a couple of times when they could have hit Ben wide open, but they kept dribbling. The offense is a work in progress with TK and the need to figure it out quickly if TK is out longer than we hope.
UConn doesn't help. Doesn't need to. So Gold's defender was up on him. UConn made it a point of emphasis after his two makes. I saw a couple of times when he was briefly open on the ball side, but the guards didn't see him. As Shaka said, MU was making one cut and not going through their progressions. Leads to iso ball.
Quote from: MU82 on March 06, 2024, 10:49:01 PM
More encouraged than discouraged. Rallied against the best team in the country, shut 'em down the final 7-8 minutes, just not quite good enough without our All-American.
Not gonna worry about 2024-25 PG play because I don't have to yet. It's still 2023-24, and the team still can reach every goal it set on Day 1 after our current PG comes back. And he will.
Loved the way Oso took it right to Clingan. Would have been nice if a couple more shots fell, but still felt he "won" the battle.
I actually am hoping Ross is still under the weather because that would at least explain his very rough outing.
I was impressed with Norman's second-half play. Composed, strong to the hoop, good D.
Nice to see Ben swish two 3s. Would have liked to have seen him get a chance to shoot a couple/few more.
Sucks that we didn't get a play off there near the end.
Waited way too long to foul when we only had 4 fouls. We let them dribble off 20 seconds before fouling, then let them do similar a little later. Needed to get to 6 faster so we could pick our spots to send them to the line.
Stevie was tough on D and even had 5 (!) offensive rebounds, but he seemed to have trouble getting a handle on the basketball all night. Playing against a great defensive team will do that, though.
I really like how Hurley handled the T by Spencer. Good coaching right there.
Can't wait for Saturday's game at Xavier. I'll be wearing gold and screaming my lungs out!
you can be in the now and still look ahead. I guarantee the coaches are...next year and the year after. Planning, forecasting, projecting. It's part of why year-in year-out excellent teams are year-in year-out excellent teams.
Quote from: Goose on March 07, 2024, 07:11:13 AM
I wish Ben would have gotten more looks as well, but UConn was not playing him soft, and he was struggling to get open in the slow half court offense. Kam and Jop both went iso a couple of times when they could have hit Ben wide open, but they kept dribbling. The offense is a work in progress with TK and the need to figure it out quickly if TK is out longer than we hope.
It was very difficult for Gold, Kam or Joplin to find much space out there for 3s. UConn is so good, and they don't need to help on D. But there were a few opportunities for Gold on the pick-and-pop and for Oso on the lob ... but the passes weren't made. That's what happens when you don't have your stud PG out there.
To me, it's not so much that Kam can't find a guy on a pick-and-pop or that he can't throw a lob, it's that it simply hasn't been what he's been asked to do for 3 years. You can't just say, "OK, now go!" So Shaka mostly asked Kam to just do what Kam does well. Kam's sure hasn't been why we didn't win these last two games (nor did you say he was).
I heard nothing postgame to make me think Kolek won't be back for the NCAA tournament. Looking forward to having him back on the court.
Meanwhile, if we just play as well as we have these last two games, we should have more than enough to win Saturday.
Quote from: tower912 on March 07, 2024, 07:09:36 AM
If he was on your team, you would love him. Heck of a player.
His play? Sure. His antics? Nope. I don't see him and TK in the same way as far as that goes.
Meh. He was having a ridiculous night, had just made a great play, stuck a dagger 3, and talked sh!t. He got the T he deserved, the lecture from his coach, and turned the momentum against his team.
The game needs heels, too.
tower
The game does not need heels. Was just talking about the lack of heels on the PGA and how that is making it even more difficult for me to watch. I wish every good team had a true heel on their team because it makes more fun to hate them. If not for Spencer, I would find it hard to cheer against UConn most nights.
Truth is, UConn is simply a better team than MU. No shame in that. Can MU beat them? Yes, but everything has to go exactly right. Maybe that happens next week. Last night, I just never felt like our gius were going to get over the hump in the second half. They were having to work too hard to score. On the positive side, Tre Norman played some good minutes and Stevie, of course, played his heart out.
Quote from: PGsHeroes32 on March 06, 2024, 09:54:22 PM
Low blow on the timing of this
There is never bad timing for a pun.
Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on March 07, 2024, 07:38:26 AM
His play? Sure. His antics? Nope. I don't see him and TK in the same way as far as that goes.
That's because TK is on the team you root for. You're just soft.
Quote from: rgoode57 on March 07, 2024, 07:50:16 AM
Truth is, UConn is simply a better team than MU. No shame in that. Can MU beat them? Yes, but everything has to go exactly right. Maybe that happens next week. Last night, I just never felt like our gius were going to get over the hump in the second half. They were having to work too hard to score. On the positive side, Tre Norman played some good minutes and Stevie, of course, played his heart out.
We did have to work too hard offensively. The question is whether this can be fixed before Tyko comes back or if he plays at like 75%? My contention is Kam is exerting too much energy. No doubt defenses will key on him but I don't really like him having to play 94 feet with the ball. Oso, while I loved that he attacked Clingan, wasn't particularly efficient last night. UCONN is a championship contender, but they also had like 4 points in 8 mins of playing time. They're beatable. But you're not beating them when they get multiple 2nd shots and we did a very poor job of rebounding. Especially long rebounds. Our guards have to snag those. Lastly, I really think Oso in particular needs to slow down at times when he's looking to score.
our defense gave us multiple opportunities to win this game!! we just never capitalized! there were a few sequences on offense where no one was moving expecting the other to do "something". we came out of a time out and almost didn't get a shot off which didn't matter because it was almost as if uconn was in our huddle.
many times, the crowd was ready to explode, but fizzled
yes, then the free throws-in the end, they matta'd
anyone have the super slo-mo replay of the dude at halftime trying to do his best simone biles immitation? he almost needed some serious dental work-no worries as MU continues to have one of the stellar programs in the nation. there were a lot of good ones in the crowd
good thing he was ok...i think
Quote from: rgoode57 on March 07, 2024, 07:50:16 AM
Truth is, UConn is simply a better team than MU. No shame in that. Can MU beat them? Yes, but everything has to go exactly right.
Everything didn't go exactly right last night, that's for sure. They killed us on the boards, it seemed like they hit every 3-pointer they took, we couldn't get open for 3s, we had trouble getting clear to the basket because of Clingan's presence and their perimeter defense, we missed a bunch of FTs, we played way too much iso-ball, and one of our starters - forced into the lineup because we were without our All-American PG - was too sick to contribute. Etc etc etc.
And despite all that stuff that didn't go exactly right, we were down 5 with the ball with 30 seconds to play.
I don't deny that UConn is simply a better team, but it's not by miles and miles. And we also have plenty of company, because they probably are the best team in the country.
Add a healthy Kolek (and Oso and Ross) to all the guts we showed these last two games, and I am far more encouraged than discouraged. Ready for a long NCAA run!
Quote from: Biggie Clausen on March 07, 2024, 08:01:23 AM
That's because TK is on the team you root for. You're just soft.
It's not. You're just an idiot.
Quote from: CountryRoads on March 06, 2024, 10:20:08 PM
Zero chance MU doesn't add another guard for next year if Kolek heads for the NBA.
If no one besides Oso & TK leave, who do you send packing?
Quote from: Viper on March 07, 2024, 07:08:46 AM
100%. FT's do matter. FREEthrows. A fundamental that absolutely swings games.
Not really, that is why they're considered a waste of time during practice.
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 07, 2024, 08:17:07 AM
We did have to work too hard offensively. The question is whether this can be fixed before Tyko comes back or if he plays at like 75%? My contention is Kam is exerting too much energy. No doubt defenses will key on him but I don't really like him having to play 94 feet with the ball. Oso, while I loved that he attacked Clingan, wasn't particularly efficient last night. UCONN is a championship contender, but they also had like 4 points in 8 mins of playing time. They're beatable. But you're not beating them when they get multiple 2nd shots and we did a very poor job of rebounding. Especially long rebounds. Our guards have to snag those. Lastly, I really think Oso in particular needs to slow down at times when he's looking to score.
There is no doubt that UConn is better. Disappointing when you compstr us vs. Them from last year with what we had coming back. This just shows that Shaka needs to step up his recruiting game.
Quote from: tower912 on March 06, 2024, 09:52:18 PM
Spencer earned the right. One way to stop him.
Exactly! We'd love it if he had a MUBB jersey on......I don't like him BUT I think I'd love him if he was on my team
Quote from: willie warrior on March 07, 2024, 09:11:11 AM
There is no doubt that UConn is better. Disappointing when you compstr us vs. Them from last year with what we had coming back. This just shows that Shaka needs to step up his recruiting game.
Thanks Dung Willie
Quote from: muwarrior97 on March 07, 2024, 09:20:01 AM
Exactly! We'd love it if he had a MUBB jersey on......I don't like him BUT I think I'd love him if he was on my team
Said the same to the UConn fans sitting behind me. What a great portal pick up for them. The guy is an assassin.
Quote from: Viper on March 07, 2024, 07:08:46 AM
100%. FT's do matter. FREEthrows. A fundamental that absolutely swings games.
Sigh. Not usually. The math has been posted here many times.
Quote from: tower912 on March 07, 2024, 07:42:21 AM
Meh. He was having a ridiculous night, had just made a great play, stuck a dagger 3, and talked sh!t. He got the T he deserved, the lecture from his coach, and turned the momentum against his team.
The game needs heels, too.
I have absolutely no problem with anything he did. The crowd gets on him and he gives it back.
Quote from: The Sultan of Semantics on March 07, 2024, 10:56:33 AM
I have absolutely no problem with anything he did. The crowd gets on him and he gives it back.
Same sh*t talking that Kolek does. Those are the players you love when they are on your team and hate when they are the opposition.
Quote from: muwarrior97 on March 07, 2024, 09:20:01 AM
Exactly! We'd love it if he had a MUBB jersey on......I don't like him BUT I think I'd love him if he was on my team
He's Rowsey on offense, while being willing to play some D and help on the boards. Damn right I'd take him or a player like him pretty much any time.
Quote from: Viper on March 07, 2024, 07:08:46 AM
100%. FT's do matter. FREEthrows. A fundamental that absolutely swings games.
The best team in country at making FTs only makes 81.7 of them so FREE throws are not actually FREE. #2 shoots 80.8%.
If we shot 81% on our FTs last night...we still lose by 3.
FT% matters, but it almost never swings games. Last night what swung the game was us only taking 16, 3Ps, allowing them to shoot 50% from three, and letting them grab 43% of their missed shots.
Quote from: TAMU, Knower of Ball on March 07, 2024, 11:28:25 AM
FT% matters, but it almost never swings games. Last night what swung the game was us only taking 16, 3Ps, allowing them to shoot 50% from three, and letting them grab 43% of their missed shots.
Yep. The FT thing is a lazy narrative.
The biggest thing I want to see improvement on is the number of times MU gets to the line.
Quote from: Big Papi on March 07, 2024, 11:21:37 AM
Same sh*t talking that Kolek does. Those are the players you love when they are on your team and hate when they are the opposition.
I've never hated an opposing player.
Quote from: MUfan12 on March 07, 2024, 11:32:05 AM
Yep. The FT thing is a lazy narrative.
The biggest thing I want to see improvement on is the number of times MU gets to the line.
I'm not sure there has ever been a lazy narrative on scoop
Quote from: Uncle Rico on March 07, 2024, 11:41:04 AM
I'm not sure there has ever been a lazy narrative on scoop
You're a lazy narrative.
BOOM!
Quote from: Big Papi on March 07, 2024, 11:21:37 AM
Same sh*t talking that Kolek does. Those are the players you love when they are on your team and hate when they are the opposition.
It's all fun and games at the end of the day. No issue with opposing players talking smack to our players/fans. Adds a little juice to the games which is never a bad thing.
Quote from: The Sultan of Semantics on March 07, 2024, 10:54:26 AM
Sigh. Not usually. The math has been posted here many times.
you argue for the sake of arguing. Contrarian Sultan, last night...MU makes their throws, different game late, alters strategy. That's not even debatable. Missed throws are points not on the board, yes?
Just woke up on the corner of Vliet and 21st. I must have wet my pants during the nightmare i had last night where our beloved warriors lost to the COWARDICE Hurley... Oh wait.!!! Where's a city bus when you need one ?!
Quote from: MUfan12 on March 07, 2024, 11:32:05 AM
Yep. The FT thing is a lazy narrative.
The biggest thing I want to see improvement on is the number of times MU gets to the line.
make the f'in free throws! Free points not on the board. If it's a lazy narrative, why do teams bench their low % free throw shooters late?...because free throws matter.
Quote from: Viper on March 07, 2024, 01:36:31 PM
make the f'in free throws! Free points not on the board. If it's a lazy narrative, why do teams bench their low % free throw shooters late?...because free throws matter.
It's why Shaka benches Oso at the end of games
Quote from: Viper on March 07, 2024, 01:17:33 PM
you argue for the sake of arguing. Contrarian Sultan, last night...MU makes their throws, different game late, alters strategy. That's not even debatable. Missed throws are points not on the board, yes?
It's not contrarian. It's math.
If Marquette would have shot FTs as good as the best team in the NCAA, they still would have lost. But if they had just their normal EFG night, they would have won easily.
FT percentage just isn't that important in the grand scheme of things.
Quote from: The Sultan of Semantics on March 07, 2024, 01:41:35 PM
It's not contrarian. It's math.
If Marquette would have shot FTs as good as the best team in the NCAA, they still would have lost. But if they had just their normal EFG night, they would have won easily.
FT percentage just isn't that important in the grand scheme of things.
Do you not acknowledge that if Marquette had made 2-3 more FTs and it was a one-possession game late that perhaps it changes how things go the last 30-60 seconds?
Of course there are other bigger reasons Marquette lost (2nd chance points, UConn shooting lights out), but shooting better from the line last night could have changed things.
Free throws are little things, just like a couple loose balls MU couldn't come up with, or a couple untimely or silly turnovers, or a couple rebounds that they didn't get. MU didn't do the little things to win last night. Everything adds up playing against Uconn level teams, teams we all hope they beat in the tournament in a couple weeks. Little things become much bigger when there is little room for error.
Quote from: Shooter McGavin on March 07, 2024, 02:18:08 PM
Free throws are little things, just like a couple loose balls MU couldn't come up with, or a couple untimely or silly turnovers, or a couple rebounds that they didn't get. MU didn't do the little things to win last night. Everything adds up playing against Uconn level teams, teams we all hope they beat in the tournament in a couple weeks. Little things become much bigger when there is little room for error.
That's exactly it. They're a factor but the kvetching about it from some people here is disproportionate to the importance.
Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on March 07, 2024, 01:59:18 PM
Do you not acknowledge that if Marquette had made 2-3 more FTs and it was a one-possession game late that perhaps it changes how things go the last 30-60 seconds?
Of course there are other bigger reasons Marquette lost (2nd chance points, UConn shooting lights out), but shooting better from the line last night could have changed things.
Its always better to make shots, be it free throws or field goals, than to miss them.
It is WAY more important to hit field goals than free throws - by a lot. That's the whole point.
Quote from: MUfan12 on March 07, 2024, 02:23:42 PM
That's exactly it. They're a factor but the kvetching about it from some people here is disproportionate to the importance.
Yep. Bingo.
Quote from: MUfan12 on March 07, 2024, 02:23:42 PM
That's exactly it. They're a factor but the kvetching about it from some people here is disproportionate to the importance.
Yep, they seem to stand out more to people because are directly seen as missed opportunities
If nobody ever missed their FREE throws (as they should, damnit!) Marquette would've made up 2 extra points last night, and still lost.
But would've been a cover, so it's a win!
Or if they would've matched UCONN's free throw shooting % last night, MU would've made up 0.328 points in the game. So didn't cover. Loss.
Watching one's favorite team miss free throws, especially late in a game, is frustrating.
They're easy! They're free! I can make 'em in my driveway!
We had a great FT shooting team at Marquette in 2018-19. In the end, that got them bupkis.
Yes, I want every FT to go in. I also hate seeing our players miss bunnies. I also want us to grab more rebounds. I also don't want my PF to dribble around, go aimlessly into the lane, and lose the ball. Etc etc etc.
There are many little frustrations when watching a loss. (Or even wins sometimes.) FTs are easy to pinpoint because they look so easy and everybody's watching.
It is frustrating when your team is making free throws at a lower percentage than the opponent is making threes.
Quote from: wisblue on March 07, 2024, 05:03:45 PM
It is frustrating when your team is making free throws at a lower percentage than the opponent is making threes.
That would've been frustrating.
Viper is still lost
Quote from: Disco Hippie on March 06, 2024, 10:39:56 PM
Let's be honest.......UCONN is just flat out better and more balanced. The outcome could have just as easily been exactly the same even if the creator was 100% healthy and played 37 min. They put up a decent effort but it's difficult to beat any team that shoots 50% or better from 3PT range, let alone a team like UCONN which is equally good in every other aspect of the game. There are going to be bumps in the road. Better to hit them now than 3 weeks from now. Onward.....
I am a big Husky Fan, but if Kolek was healthy it's hard to say if UConn would've won even though I think UConn is a better team. Sure they put that 28 pt beatdown on your Marquette team in Hartford in a clinical fashion, but UConn isn't close to being that much better than Marquette. The Golden Eagles are at their best when they are harassing the opposing offenses with their deflections and in your face defense. An example of this is your team's game against Kansas in the Maui Invitational where Kansas was completely rattled and shook. Also, their pick and roll game with Kolek and Iguadharo and the many options they have from that are hard to defend.
The major weakness of Marquette however is their defensive rebounding which has been the case for the last 3 years. And offensive rebounding is where UConn excels so they can exploit this weakness.
Marquette can absolutely make the Final Four this year with the proper draw and with a healthy Kolek. Keep him out of the Big East Tournament if necessary to get his oblique back in form because the manner in which he throws those whip around passes he turns his upper body isn't going to help heal the oblique.
Anyways, good luck the rest of the way. i have always liked respected Marquette and will be pulling for you guys in the NCAAT as long as it doesn't hurt UConn in any way.
Quote from: gsmooth on March 09, 2024, 08:02:28 AM
I am a big Husky Fan, but if Kolek was healthy it's hard to say if UConn would've won even though I think UConn is a better team. Sure they put that 28 pt beatdown on your Marquette team in Hartford in a clinical fashion, but UConn isn't close to being that much better than Marquette. The Golden Eagles are at their best when they are harassing the opposing offenses with their deflections and in your face defense. An example of this is your team's game against Kansas in the Maui Invitational where Kansas was completely rattled and shook. Also, their pick and roll game with Kolek and Iguadharo and the many options they have from that are hard to defend.
The major weakness of Marquette however is their defensive rebounding which has been the case for the last 3 years. And offensive rebounding is where UConn excels so they can exploit this weakness.
Marquette can absolutely make the Final Four this year with the proper draw and with a healthy Kolek. Keep him out of the Big East Tournament if necessary to get his oblique back in form because the manner in which he throws those whip around passes he turns his upper body isn't going to help heal the oblique.
Anyways, good luck the rest of the way. i have always liked respected Marquette and will be pulling for you guys in the NCAAT as long as it doesn't hurt UConn in any way.
Thank you for your kind words. As much as I hate to admit it, Coach Hurley has done an incredible job with UConn. You guys are the real deal.
Good luck to you guys as well. Hope we see you with a healthy Tyler Kolek down the road in Phoenix.,
Quote from: gsmooth on March 09, 2024, 08:02:28 AM
I am a big Husky Fan, but if Kolek was healthy it's hard to say if UConn would've won even though I think UConn is a better team. Sure they put that 28 pt beatdown on your Marquette team in Hartford in a clinical fashion, but UConn isn't close to being that much better than Marquette. The Golden Eagles are at their best when they are harassing the opposing offenses with their deflections and in your face defense. An example of this is your team's game against Kansas in the Maui Invitational where Kansas was completely rattled and shook. Also, their pick and roll game with Kolek and Iguadharo and the many options they have from that are hard to defend.
The major weakness of Marquette however is their defensive rebounding which has been the case for the last 3 years. And offensive rebounding is where UConn excels so they can exploit this weakness.
Marquette can absolutely make the Final Four this year with the proper draw and with a healthy Kolek. Keep him out of the Big East Tournament if necessary to get his oblique back in form because the manner in which he throws those whip around passes he turns his upper body isn't going to help heal the oblique.
Anyways, good luck the rest of the way. i have always liked respected Marquette and will be pulling for you guys in the NCAAT as long as it doesn't hurt UConn in any way.
Nice post. Your second, short paragraph correctly points out our rebounding vulnerability, but as has been discussed at length here, it's comes with Shaka's system (for lack of a better explanation). More on point is UCONN's strength in rebounding, which leads to an expression that is a bit of a catch-all-"bad matchup".
Why UConn men's basketball team had extended stay in Milwaukee after beating Marquette: 'Not good'
By David Borges,
Staff writer
March 8, 2024
https://www.ctinsider.com/sports/uconn-mens-basketball/article/marquette-milwaukee-travel-huskies-18751658.php
A funny thing happened to the UConn men's basketball team on its trip home from Milwaukee after beating Marquette on Wednesday night.
The Huskies didn't arrive back home until about 11 p.m. on Thursday, with an unscheduled visit to Chicago and practice at the University of Milwaukee along the way.
"Almost 24 hours," coach Dan Hurley said on Friday evening. "Not good."
After Wednesday night's 74-67 win over Marquette at Fiserv Forum, the Huskies boarded a bus for nearby General Mitchell Airport and figured they'd be back on campus for Thursday morning classes. However, before UConn boarded the plane, a mechanical issue forced the flight to be canceled, and the Huskies returned to their downtown Milwaukee Mariott hotel and rescheduled a flight for 12:30 p.m. on Thursday.
"It's understandable," Hurley said. "But what transpired the next day was not good and shouldn't happen to a major sports organization. Late in the year, especially, I'm really disappointed with (the charter company's) efforts for us."
Indeed, upon UConn's return to the airport, the team learned that this flight had to be canceled, as well. So, the Huskies booked a practice at the University of Milwaukee that afternoon and flew home afterwards — from Chicago, about 90 minutes up the road.
"We tried to turn lemons into lemonade to get some of the prep work done, preparing for Providence," Hurley said. "The day-after game, on-court prep work we were able to get done, courtesy of the fine people at Marriott and at the University of Milwaukee-Wisconsin. Great thanks to them."
"The charter company didn't do as well for us as Marriott and the University of Milwaukee-Wisconsin did."
UConn practiced at the Werth Family Champions Center on Friday afternoon and bussed to Providence in the evening for Saturday's regular-season finale at 8 p.m. against the Friars.
Quote from: MU Fan in Connecticut on March 09, 2024, 08:59:30 AM
Why UConn men's basketball team had extended stay in Milwaukee after beating Marquette: 'Not good'
By David Borges,
Staff writer
March 8, 2024
https://www.ctinsider.com/sports/uconn-mens-basketball/article/marquette-milwaukee-travel-huskies-18751658.php
A funny thing happened to the UConn men's basketball team on its trip home from Milwaukee after beating Marquette on Wednesday night.
The Huskies didn't arrive back home until about 11 p.m. on Thursday, with an unscheduled visit to Chicago and practice at the University of Milwaukee along the way.
"Almost 24 hours," coach Dan Hurley said on Friday evening. "Not good."
After Wednesday night's 74-67 win over Marquette at Fiserv Forum, the Huskies boarded a bus for nearby General Mitchell Airport and figured they'd be back on campus for Thursday morning classes. However, before UConn boarded the plane, a mechanical issue forced the flight to be canceled, and the Huskies returned to their downtown Milwaukee Mariott hotel and rescheduled a flight for 12:30 p.m. on Thursday.
"It's understandable," Hurley said. "But what transpired the next day was not good and shouldn't happen to a major sports organization. Late in the year, especially, I'm really disappointed with (the charter company's) efforts for us."
Indeed, upon UConn's return to the airport, the team learned that this flight had to be canceled, as well. So, the Huskies booked a practice at the University of Milwaukee that afternoon and flew home afterwards — from Chicago, about 90 minutes up the road.
"We tried to turn lemons into lemonade to get some of the prep work done, preparing for Providence," Hurley said. "The day-after game, on-court prep work we were able to get done, courtesy of the fine people at Marriott and at the University of Milwaukee-Wisconsin. Great thanks to them."
"The charter company didn't do as well for us as Marriott and the University of Milwaukee-Wisconsin did."
UConn practiced at the Werth Family Champions Center on Friday afternoon and bussed to Providence in the evening for Saturday's regular-season finale at 8 p.m. against the Friars.
My heart pours out to them. Hope they have counselors readily available as they pick up the pieces.
Quote from: gsmooth on March 09, 2024, 08:02:28 AM
I am a big Husky Fan, but if Kolek was healthy it's hard to say if UConn would've won even though I think UConn is a better team. Sure they put that 28 pt beatdown on your Marquette team in Hartford in a clinical fashion, but UConn isn't close to being that much better than Marquette. The Golden Eagles are at their best when they are harassing the opposing offenses with their deflections and in your face defense. An example of this is your team's game against Kansas in the Maui Invitational where Kansas was completely rattled and shook. Also, their pick and roll game with Kolek and Iguadharo and the many options they have from that are hard to defend.
The major weakness of Marquette however is their defensive rebounding which has been the case for the last 3 years. And offensive rebounding is where UConn excels so they can exploit this weakness.
Marquette can absolutely make the Final Four this year with the proper draw and with a healthy Kolek. Keep him out of the Big East Tournament if necessary to get his oblique back in form because the manner in which he throws those whip around passes he turns his upper body isn't going to help heal the oblique.
Anyways, good luck the rest of the way. i have always liked respected Marquette and will be pulling for you guys in the NCAAT as long as it doesn't hurt UConn in any way.
This feels like if you asked ChatGPT to write a few paragraphs on why Marquette is good from a UConn fan perspective
Quote from: jesmu84 on March 09, 2024, 10:29:43 AM
This feels like if you asked ChatGPT to write a few paragraphs on why Marquette is good from a UConn fan perspective
LOL, I can assure you I am human and not an OpenAI.
Quote from: gsmooth on March 09, 2024, 11:02:25 AM
LOL, I can assure you I am human and not an OpenAI.
That's exactly what an AI would say. ;D