Coach Lav

[paultzman]

I guess as long as the team wins, who cares what is posted.

I think some posters got used to the Honeymoon period. Where all was well. We were getting top recruits. Future looked bright. But slowly some things have popped up. And yes they are being mentioned. Even after wins. That's life though. No fan base is going to be even remotely close to satisfied.

Concerns about the team not achieving SL's stated goal of Tourney participation is fair game, if we reach that point. (Quite likely) Also, acknowledging SL is a skilled recruiter, it seems acceptable to worry about avoiding a major rebuilding job after next season. To go back to being "Youngest team in Country" in 2015 is not a pleasant thought. On this issue, I just want to see us get on a steadier path without massive turnover too often. Nothing wrong with that in my opinion.

Now let's enjoy beating Creighton, keeping our goal alive.

 

[logen]

As someone who has knocked this coaching staff and group of players I'd like to respond to all of this "wait until the end of the season" nonsense. We certainly look like we have turned a corner. We still got the "deer in the headlights" look for a stretch against Providence but eventually held tight on defense from about the 8 minute mark to the 3 or 4 minute mark and then made our fouls so credit is certainly due for an overall tight game, Providence is a good team and a run on their home court was not unexpected. This gives us a stretch of 4-5 games of good ball and let's hope this is the real deal and we keep it up.

Having said that, I think the criticism was warranted and I still wonder why it took us 20 games to get there. The truth is we played lousy, unfocused, unorganized basketball for half the season. I understand this is not the time to re-hash what happened. it is a time to enjoy what IS happening but since shots are being taken for that early criticism, I'll fire back. I expected we would play this way from Day 1 and don't understand why we didn't. I said after the game I thought we were better than Wisconsin and it is obvious they were over-rated big time by many on the board to justify the loss. Our play remained ragged until this recent improvement.

I am thrilled with the turn-around and unfortunately (for me) am in the "will we keep it up" mode right now. Looking forward to Creighton. Frankly, I expect a victory, I think we have a better team than the 12th ranked team in the country IF we continue to dig in on D and share the ball.

 

[Class of 72]

I guess as long as the team wins, who cares what is posted.

I think some posters got used to the Honeymoon period. Where all was well. We were getting top recruits. Future looked bright. But slowly some things have popped up. And yes they are being mentioned. Even after wins. That's life though. No fan base is going to be even remotely close to satisfied.

Concerns about the team not achieving SL's stated goal of Tourney participation is fair game, if we reach that point. (Quite likely) Also, acknowledging SL is a skilled recruiter, it seems acceptable to worry about avoiding a major rebuilding job after next season. To go back to being "Youngest team in Country" in 2015 is not a pleasant thought. On this issue, I just want to see us get on a steadier path without massive turnover too often. Nothing wrong with that in my opinion.

Now let's enjoy beating Creighton, keeping our goal alive.

+1 on everything you said but I would still like to see Tony lose around 30 pounds! :lol:
I say it out of concern for his health as a young man and former athlete who does not need to become a future Rick Majerus. Oh, and while I am at it, Lavin does not wear ties because his neck has gotten about as big as his head when doing interviews. Get back out there and reclaim Diallo and a couple of others that may slip away!!!
Peace yo!

 

[TonyinFairfield]

Barring any transfers. We will have all our major pieces back. Next year we can just build on this year. Lavin wont have to experiment w the lineups early on.

Some will say good news: all the major pieces will be back next year... bad news: that includes the coaches.

Lets not bury the coaches until the season is over, plenty of games left

I think no matter what happens, those posters who want to bury the coaches will still, and always will want to, bury the coaches. I'd love to see us win the BE tourny, make the NCAAs and go deep there. I'll bet you the "bury the coaches" gang will still be flaming away.

Yep, I guess there is always something to complain about- even after wins. What Lavin is wearing, Greene shot too much, why was Felix activated, Dom is a punk, Chiles is out of shape-- these were posted after Stj won! Can't even enjoy a W

So all is well then?

All isn't well, but the things some of the fans complain about seem trivial. My guess is we will beat Creighton and the take away will be the lack of fans at the game- so again another negative after a W.

So let me just get this straight.
If we beat Creighton nobody can make a comment about the lack of fans at the game?
If anything I expect that to come from the rah rah side of the fan base not someone down on Lavin or direction of program.

Oh and I agree coaches wardrobe is a joke of a discussion. As is the physique of our coaches. But in terms of redshirts, and what happens on the court and the actions of a player for going on 3 years now I think that is more than in the wheelhouse as topics for discussion. Regardless of if we win by 40

No one is questioning the appropriateness of commenting on aspects of the team, game, etc. And I haven't seen anyone post that everything is fine. There is always room for improvement. I'm sure the 'Cuse fans even believe that. But the negativity on this board, even after a good stretch as we've had, is mind boggling. I guess it depends on how one lives his or her life; glass half-full or glass half-empty.

 

[beast of the east]

I guess as long as the team wins, who cares what is posted.

I think some posters got used to the Honeymoon period. Where all was well. We were getting top recruits. Future looked bright. But slowly some things have popped up. And yes they are being mentioned. Even after wins. That's life though. No fan base is going to be even remotely close to satisfied.

Concerns about the team not achieving SL's stated goal of Tourney participation is fair game, if we reach that point. (Quite likely) Also, acknowledging SL is a skilled recruiter, it seems acceptable to worry about avoiding a major rebuilding job after next season. To go back to being "Youngest team in Country" in 2015 is not a pleasant thought. On this issue, I just want to see us get on a steadier path without massive turnover too often. Nothing wrong with that in my opinion.

Now let's enjoy beating Creighton, keeping our goal alive.

While the lack of NCAA tourney bid was a reasonable goal, at this point, it is going to take an incredible but possible run to get there. At this point, common sense is to get used to the idea that the greater likelihood is that we aren't getting an at large bid. Given that, for now, enjoy the resurgence of some very good basketball, some gritty wins, and leave it at that. After 0-5, and 2-6, a 10-3 or 8-2 finish is impressive in this conference. Disappointing, yes. Earth shattering, no. Just imagine if we go into our final conference game 10-7 with the taste of a bid right there, and we blow a 10 point lead and lose at the buzzer in the regular season finale. We all know what the posts would look like. Yes, this isn't Russia as Guinness77 complained, but a little balance would be nice also.

 

[Moose]

Barring any transfers. We will have all our major pieces back. Next year we can just build on this year. Lavin wont have to experiment w the lineups early on.

Some will say good news: all the major pieces will be back next year... bad news: that includes the coaches.

Lets not bury the coaches until the season is over, plenty of games left

I think no matter what happens, those posters who want to bury the coaches will still, and always will want to, bury the coaches. I'd love to see us win the BE tourny, make the NCAAs and go deep there. I'll bet you the "bury the coaches" gang will still be flaming away.

Yep, I guess there is always something to complain about- even after wins. What Lavin is wearing, Greene shot too much, why was Felix activated, Dom is a punk, Chiles is out of shape-- these were posted after Stj won! Can't even enjoy a W

So all is well then?

All isn't well, but the things some of the fans complain about seem trivial. My guess is we will beat Creighton and the take away will be the lack of fans at the game- so again another negative after a W.

So let me just get this straight.
If we beat Creighton nobody can make a comment about the lack of fans at the game?
If anything I expect that to come from the rah rah side of the fan base not someone down on Lavin or direction of program.

Oh and I agree coaches wardrobe is a joke of a discussion. As is the physique of our coaches. But in terms of redshirts, and what happens on the court and the actions of a player for going on 3 years now I think that is more than in the wheelhouse as topics for discussion. Regardless of if we win by 40

No one is questioning the appropriateness of commenting on aspects of the team, game, etc. And I haven't seen anyone post that everything is fine. There is always room for improvement. I'm sure the 'Cuse fans even believe that. But the negativity on this board, even after a good stretch as we've had, is mind boggling. I guess it depends on how one lives his or her life; glass half-full or glass half-empty.

The poster above did mention aspects of the team and game though.

I've been there. I've been on the eternal optimist side hating the posts of those on the other side. I'm currently in the middle if anything leaning negative because I look beyond the court towards recruiting and scholarship distribution and see a troubling trend. Cuse is great example. #1 team in the country and I'm sure there are things their fans are complaining about. I don't think this message board is any different than any other. Not better, not worse.

 

[weathermannyc]

I said after the game I thought we were better than Wisconsin and it is obvious they were over-rated big time by many on the board to justify the loss.

I work with a Badger alum and he watches almost all of their games. According to him, their big weaknesses has been interier defense and especially rebounding. These are things that we really can't take advantage of to the same degree that many Big 10 teams can.

 

[Moose]

I guess as long as the team wins, who cares what is posted.

I think some posters got used to the Honeymoon period. Where all was well. We were getting top recruits. Future looked bright. But slowly some things have popped up. And yes they are being mentioned. Even after wins. That's life though. No fan base is going to be even remotely close to satisfied.

Concerns about the team not achieving SL's stated goal of Tourney participation is fair game, if we reach that point. (Quite likely) Also, acknowledging SL is a skilled recruiter, it seems acceptable to worry about avoiding a major rebuilding job after next season. To go back to being "Youngest team in Country" in 2015 is not a pleasant thought. On this issue, I just want to see us get on a steadier path without massive turnover too often. Nothing wrong with that in my opinion.

Now let's enjoy beating Creighton, keeping our goal alive.

While the lack of NCAA tourney bid was a reasonable goal, at this point, it is going to take an incredible but possible run to get there. At this point, common sense is to get used to the idea that the greater likelihood is that we aren't getting an at large bid. Given that, for now, enjoy the resurgence of some very good basketball, some gritty wins, and leave it at that. After 0-5, and 2-6, a 10-3 or 8-2 finish is impressive in this conference. Disappointing, yes. Earth shattering, no. Just imagine if we go into our final conference game 10-7 with the taste of a bid right there, and we blow a 10 point lead and lose at the buzzer in the regular season finale. We all know what the posts would look like. Yes, this isn't Russia as Guinness77 complained, but a little balance would be nice also.

So by enjoy is that like a Mets fan enjoying a winning record in September when they already dug their grave in April to August? I'm not a Mets fan (I thank God every day) but just want to equate the enjoyment factor. I don't enjoy band aids over bullet holes.

 

[TonyinFairfield]

Barring any transfers. We will have all our major pieces back. Next year we can just build on this year. Lavin wont have to experiment w the lineups early on.

Some will say good news: all the major pieces will be back next year... bad news: that includes the coaches.

Lets not bury the coaches until the season is over, plenty of games left

I think no matter what happens, those posters who want to bury the coaches will still, and always will want to, bury the coaches. I'd love to see us win the BE tourny, make the NCAAs and go deep there. I'll bet you the "bury the coaches" gang will still be flaming away.

Yep, I guess there is always something to complain about- even after wins. What Lavin is wearing, Greene shot too much, why was Felix activated, Dom is a punk, Chiles is out of shape-- these were posted after Stj won! Can't even enjoy a W

So all is well then?

All isn't well, but the things some of the fans complain about seem trivial. My guess is we will beat Creighton and the take away will be the lack of fans at the game- so again another negative after a W.

So let me just get this straight.
If we beat Creighton nobody can make a comment about the lack of fans at the game?
If anything I expect that to come from the rah rah side of the fan base not someone down on Lavin or direction of program.

Oh and I agree coaches wardrobe is a joke of a discussion. As is the physique of our coaches. But in terms of redshirts, and what happens on the court and the actions of a player for going on 3 years now I think that is more than in the wheelhouse as topics for discussion. Regardless of if we win by 40

No one is questioning the appropriateness of commenting on aspects of the team, game, etc. And I haven't seen anyone post that everything is fine. There is always room for improvement. I'm sure the 'Cuse fans even believe that. But the negativity on this board, even after a good stretch as we've had, is mind boggling. I guess it depends on how one lives his or her life; glass half-full or glass half-empty.

The poster above did mention aspects of the team and game though.

I've been there. I've been on the eternal optimist side hating the posts of those on the other side. I'm currently in the middle if anything leaning negative because I look beyond the court towards recruiting and scholarship distribution and see a troubling trend. Cuse is great example. #1 team in the country and I'm sure there are things their fans are complaining about. I don't think this message board is any different than any other. Not better, not worse.

You make a good point, Moose. And I am far from the eternal optimist also. Being a life-long Jets fan will do that to you! And like you, there are things I definitely like about our program right now and there are things that concern me. But I choose to focus on the positive aspects of our program, with the belief (hope?) that the positives will eventually minimize the negatives. That may sound "Pollyanna-ish" but that's how I choose to view this.

Bottom line is that winning solves a lot. Doesn't make the negative aspects of our program go away, but it does help create a more favorable and positive outlook for our program.

 

[beast of the east]

I guess as long as the team wins, who cares what is posted.

I think some posters got used to the Honeymoon period. Where all was well. We were getting top recruits. Future looked bright. But slowly some things have popped up. And yes they are being mentioned. Even after wins. That's life though. No fan base is going to be even remotely close to satisfied.

Concerns about the team not achieving SL's stated goal of Tourney participation is fair game, if we reach that point. (Quite likely) Also, acknowledging SL is a skilled recruiter, it seems acceptable to worry about avoiding a major rebuilding job after next season. To go back to being "Youngest team in Country" in 2015 is not a pleasant thought. On this issue, I just want to see us get on a steadier path without massive turnover too often. Nothing wrong with that in my opinion.



Now let's enjoy beating Creighton, keeping our goal alive.

While the lack of NCAA tourney bid was a reasonable goal, at this point, it is going to take an incredible but possible run to get there. At this point, common sense is to get used to the idea that the greater likelihood is that we aren't getting an at large bid. Given that, for now, enjoy the resurgence of some very good basketball, some gritty wins, and leave it at that. After 0-5, and 2-6, a 10-3 or 8-2 finish is impressive in this conference. Disappointing, yes. Earth shattering, no. Just imagine if we go into our final conference game 10-7 with the taste of a bid right there, and we blow a 10 point lead and lose at the buzzer in the regular season finale. We all know what the posts would look like. Yes, this isn't Russia as Guinness77 complained, but a little balance would be nice also.

So by enjoy is that like a Mets fan enjoying a winning record in September when they already dug their grave in April to August? I'm not a Mets fan (I thank God every day) but just want to equate the enjoyment factor. I don't enjoy band aids over bullet holes.

I am a Mets fan, so we do have a different perspective on the expectation of winning. I'm not asking you to celebrate us finishing the season 3-2 over the last five and finishing at 6-12. I am saying this team played itself into a very deep hole definitely by poor late game performance and maybe some questionable coaching decisions. However, I think if we just fall short of a bid (10-8) in conference would mean that for 72% of the conference season (13 of 18 games) we'd have played winning basketball at a .769 clip (10-3). To me that would be disappoint in not going to the dance, but the kids could hold their heads up high and feel good about their overall performance.

This is why I go to every single game that my schedule allows - even when they are not winning, I haven't lost faith that they'd turn it around. I'm not pinning anything on myself as admirable - I think it's just a reality of this squad is that they are pretty good, and have played pretty well in all but one conference game. So I take it as it comes, and have enjoyed the season so far.

 

[TonyinFairfield]

I guess as long as the team wins, who cares what is posted.

I think some posters got used to the Honeymoon period. Where all was well. We were getting top recruits. Future looked bright. But slowly some things have popped up. And yes they are being mentioned. Even after wins. That's life though. No fan base is going to be even remotely close to satisfied.

Concerns about the team not achieving SL's stated goal of Tourney participation is fair game, if we reach that point. (Quite likely) Also, acknowledging SL is a skilled recruiter, it seems acceptable to worry about avoiding a major rebuilding job after next season. To go back to being "Youngest team in Country" in 2015 is not a pleasant thought. On this issue, I just want to see us get on a steadier path without massive turnover too often. Nothing wrong with that in my opinion.



Now let's enjoy beating Creighton, keeping our goal alive.

While the lack of NCAA tourney bid was a reasonable goal, at this point, it is going to take an incredible but possible run to get there. At this point, common sense is to get used to the idea that the greater likelihood is that we aren't getting an at large bid. Given that, for now, enjoy the resurgence of some very good basketball, some gritty wins, and leave it at that. After 0-5, and 2-6, a 10-3 or 8-2 finish is impressive in this conference. Disappointing, yes. Earth shattering, no. Just imagine if we go into our final conference game 10-7 with the taste of a bid right there, and we blow a 10 point lead and lose at the buzzer in the regular season finale. We all know what the posts would look like. Yes, this isn't Russia as Guinness77 complained, but a little balance would be nice also.

So by enjoy is that like a Mets fan enjoying a winning record in September when they already dug their grave in April to August? I'm not a Mets fan (I thank God every day) but just want to equate the enjoyment factor. I don't enjoy band aids over bullet holes.

I am a Mets fan, so we do have a different perspective on the expectation of winning. I'm not asking you to celebrate us finishing the season 3-2 over the last five and finishing at 6-12. I am saying this team played itself into a very deep hole definitely by poor late game performance and maybe some questionable coaching decisions. However, I think if we just fall short of a bid (10-8) in conference would mean that for 72% of the conference season (13 of 18 games) we'd have played winning basketball at a .769 clip (10-3). To me that would be disappoint in not going to the dance, but the kids could hold their heads up high and feel good about their overall performance.

This is why I go to every single game that my schedule allows - even when they are not winning, I haven't lost faith that they'd turn it around. I'm not pinning anything on myself as admirable - I think it's just a reality of this squad is that they are pretty good, and have played pretty well in all but one conference game. So I take it as it comes, and have enjoyed the season so far.

I'll be there with you on Sunday night, Beast.

 

[Moose]

I guess as long as the team wins, who cares what is posted.

I think some posters got used to the Honeymoon period. Where all was well. We were getting top recruits. Future looked bright. But slowly some things have popped up. And yes they are being mentioned. Even after wins. That's life though. No fan base is going to be even remotely close to satisfied.

Concerns about the team not achieving SL's stated goal of Tourney participation is fair game, if we reach that point. (Quite likely) Also, acknowledging SL is a skilled recruiter, it seems acceptable to worry about avoiding a major rebuilding job after next season. To go back to being "Youngest team in Country" in 2015 is not a pleasant thought. On this issue, I just want to see us get on a steadier path without massive turnover too often. Nothing wrong with that in my opinion.



Now let's enjoy beating Creighton, keeping our goal alive.

While the lack of NCAA tourney bid was a reasonable goal, at this point, it is going to take an incredible but possible run to get there. At this point, common sense is to get used to the idea that the greater likelihood is that we aren't getting an at large bid. Given that, for now, enjoy the resurgence of some very good basketball, some gritty wins, and leave it at that. After 0-5, and 2-6, a 10-3 or 8-2 finish is impressive in this conference. Disappointing, yes. Earth shattering, no. Just imagine if we go into our final conference game 10-7 with the taste of a bid right there, and we blow a 10 point lead and lose at the buzzer in the regular season finale. We all know what the posts would look like. Yes, this isn't Russia as Guinness77 complained, but a little balance would be nice also.

So by enjoy is that like a Mets fan enjoying a winning record in September when they already dug their grave in April to August? I'm not a Mets fan (I thank God every day) but just want to equate the enjoyment factor. I don't enjoy band aids over bullet holes.

I am a Mets fan, so we do have a different perspective on the expectation of winning. I'm not asking you to celebrate us finishing the season 3-2 over the last five and finishing at 6-12. I am saying this team played itself into a very deep hole definitely by poor late game performance and maybe some questionable coaching decisions. However, I think if we just fall short of a bid (10-8) in conference would mean that for 72% of the conference season (13 of 18 games) we'd have played winning basketball at a .769 clip (10-3). To me that would be disappoint in not going to the dance, but the kids could hold their heads up high and feel good about their overall performance.

This is why I go to every single game that my schedule allows - even when they are not winning, I haven't lost faith that they'd turn it around. I'm not pinning anything on myself as admirable - I think it's just a reality of this squad is that they are pretty good, and have played pretty well in all but one conference game. So I take it as it comes, and have enjoyed the season so far.

I notice you took the time to mention you go to ever single game your schedule allows even when not winning. I'm pretty darn certain thats a shot at me as you haven't seen me at some recent Garden games. Schedule is always a factor for whether someone attends a game. But $ and pure better use of time is another. I of late have found better use of my time and days than going to some MSG games. And it also saves me a nice bit of money as well.

As for what you enjoy I am happy you found this season/team enjoyable. But we definitely differ because I sure as hell haven't.

 

[beast of the east]

I guess as long as the team wins, who cares what is posted.

I think some posters got used to the Honeymoon period. Where all was well. We were getting top recruits. Future looked bright. But slowly some things have popped up. And yes they are being mentioned. Even after wins. That's life though. No fan base is going to be even remotely close to satisfied.

Concerns about the team not achieving SL's stated goal of Tourney participation is fair game, if we reach that point. (Quite likely) Also, acknowledging SL is a skilled recruiter, it seems acceptable to worry about avoiding a major rebuilding job after next season. To go back to being "Youngest team in Country" in 2015 is not a pleasant thought. On this issue, I just want to see us get on a steadier path without massive turnover too often. Nothing wrong with that in my opinion.



Now let's enjoy beating Creighton, keeping our goal alive.

While the lack of NCAA tourney bid was a reasonable goal, at this point, it is going to take an incredible but possible run to get there. At this point, common sense is to get used to the idea that the greater likelihood is that we aren't getting an at large bid. Given that, for now, enjoy the resurgence of some very good basketball, some gritty wins, and leave it at that. After 0-5, and 2-6, a 10-3 or 8-2 finish is impressive in this conference. Disappointing, yes. Earth shattering, no. Just imagine if we go into our final conference game 10-7 with the taste of a bid right there, and we blow a 10 point lead and lose at the buzzer in the regular season finale. We all know what the posts would look like. Yes, this isn't Russia as Guinness77 complained, but a little balance would be nice also.

So by enjoy is that like a Mets fan enjoying a winning record in September when they already dug their grave in April to August? I'm not a Mets fan (I thank God every day) but just want to equate the enjoyment factor. I don't enjoy band aids over bullet holes.

I am a Mets fan, so we do have a different perspective on the expectation of winning. I'm not asking you to celebrate us finishing the season 3-2 over the last five and finishing at 6-12. I am saying this team played itself into a very deep hole definitely by poor late game performance and maybe some questionable coaching decisions. However, I think if we just fall short of a bid (10-8) in conference would mean that for 72% of the conference season (13 of 18 games) we'd have played winning basketball at a .769 clip (10-3). To me that would be disappoint in not going to the dance, but the kids could hold their heads up high and feel good about their overall performance.

This is why I go to every single game that my schedule allows - even when they are not winning, I haven't lost faith that they'd turn it around. I'm not pinning anything on myself as admirable - I think it's just a reality of this squad is that they are pretty good, and have played pretty well in all but one conference game. So I take it as it comes, and have enjoyed the season so far.

I notice you took the time to mention you go to ever single game your schedule allows even when not winning. I'm pretty darn certain thats a shot at me as you haven't seen me at some recent Garden games. Schedule is always a factor for whether someone attends a game. But $ and pure better use of time is another. I of late have found better use of my time and days than going to some MSG games. And it also saves me a nice bit of money as well.

As for what you enjoy I am happy you found this season/team enjoyable. But we definitely differ because I sure as hell haven't.

It's not a shot at you at all. I understand your situation, and would never throw that at you. I don't agree with better use of time, because you missed some pretty good games along the way. Then again, you have a life, I don't. No offense intended whatsoever, ok?

 

[Moose]

I guess as long as the team wins, who cares what is posted.

I think some posters got used to the Honeymoon period. Where all was well. We were getting top recruits. Future looked bright. But slowly some things have popped up. And yes they are being mentioned. Even after wins. That's life though. No fan base is going to be even remotely close to satisfied.

Concerns about the team not achieving SL's stated goal of Tourney participation is fair game, if we reach that point. (Quite likely) Also, acknowledging SL is a skilled recruiter, it seems acceptable to worry about avoiding a major rebuilding job after next season. To go back to being "Youngest team in Country" in 2015 is not a pleasant thought. On this issue, I just want to see us get on a steadier path without massive turnover too often. Nothing wrong with that in my opinion.



Now let's enjoy beating Creighton, keeping our goal alive.

While the lack of NCAA tourney bid was a reasonable goal, at this point, it is going to take an incredible but possible run to get there. At this point, common sense is to get used to the idea that the greater likelihood is that we aren't getting an at large bid. Given that, for now, enjoy the resurgence of some very good basketball, some gritty wins, and leave it at that. After 0-5, and 2-6, a 10-3 or 8-2 finish is impressive in this conference. Disappointing, yes. Earth shattering, no. Just imagine if we go into our final conference game 10-7 with the taste of a bid right there, and we blow a 10 point lead and lose at the buzzer in the regular season finale. We all know what the posts would look like. Yes, this isn't Russia as Guinness77 complained, but a little balance would be nice also.

So by enjoy is that like a Mets fan enjoying a winning record in September when they already dug their grave in April to August? I'm not a Mets fan (I thank God every day) but just want to equate the enjoyment factor. I don't enjoy band aids over bullet holes.

I am a Mets fan, so we do have a different perspective on the expectation of winning. I'm not asking you to celebrate us finishing the season 3-2 over the last five and finishing at 6-12. I am saying this team played itself into a very deep hole definitely by poor late game performance and maybe some questionable coaching decisions. However, I think if we just fall short of a bid (10-8) in conference would mean that for 72% of the conference season (13 of 18 games) we'd have played winning basketball at a .769 clip (10-3). To me that would be disappoint in not going to the dance, but the kids could hold their heads up high and feel good about their overall performance.

This is why I go to every single game that my schedule allows - even when they are not winning, I haven't lost faith that they'd turn it around. I'm not pinning anything on myself as admirable - I think it's just a reality of this squad is that they are pretty good, and have played pretty well in all but one conference game. So I take it as it comes, and have enjoyed the season so far.

I notice you took the time to mention you go to ever single game your schedule allows even when not winning. I'm pretty darn certain thats a shot at me as you haven't seen me at some recent Garden games. Schedule is always a factor for whether someone attends a game. But $ and pure better use of time is another. I of late have found better use of my time and days than going to some MSG games. And it also saves me a nice bit of money as well.

As for what you enjoy I am happy you found this season/team enjoyable. But we definitely differ because I sure as hell haven't.

It's not a shot at you at all. I understand your situation, and would never throw that at you. I don't agree with better use of time, because you missed some pretty good games along the way. Then again, you have a life, I don't. No offense intended whatsoever, ok?

I have missed Nova loss, Prov loss at CA and Marquette win. Nova and Prov losses would have infuriated me if I was in attendance. Sitting at home or doing something and catching game later or in bits and pieces hardly has the same impact on me. So combine the lack of aggravation and the money saved I'm out ahead. Yeah Marquette game I'm sure it was fun to see live. Call the minority but I enjoy the CA games more. They are cheaper, its easier to get home and usually at better times. Maybe I'm just burned out. Spurned one too many times. I've seen this team play all across this country and its to the point now where even a trip into NYC is too much for me.

 

[redfazed]

I watched the Providence post-game interview with Lavin that someone else posted on the Providence thread.

At the very end, Lavin makes this comment: “Our team is just getting a better sense for one another.”

That comment, at this juncture in the season, is the reason I start to lose my mind when it comes to this coaching staff. We had just 2 new players to integrate –one of whom practiced with the team all last season! After a trip to Europe and 12 pre-conference games, that comment might have been appropriate on Day 1 of conference play. Not now.

I am thrilled with the recent winning streak and can’t wait to see them extract revenge on Creighton this Sunday. But something has to change program-wise—maybe it’s keeping Laving and getting stronger assistants, I don’t know. Otherwise, we’re going to repeat this tortuous cycle all over again come 2015 when the current core is gone.

 

[TonyinFairfield]

I guess as long as the team wins, who cares what is posted.

I think some posters got used to the Honeymoon period. Where all was well. We were getting top recruits. Future looked bright. But slowly some things have popped up. And yes they are being mentioned. Even after wins. That's life though. No fan base is going to be even remotely close to satisfied.

Concerns about the team not achieving SL's stated goal of Tourney participation is fair game, if we reach that point. (Quite likely) Also, acknowledging SL is a skilled recruiter, it seems acceptable to worry about avoiding a major rebuilding job after next season. To go back to being "Youngest team in Country" in 2015 is not a pleasant thought. On this issue, I just want to see us get on a steadier path without massive turnover too often. Nothing wrong with that in my opinion.



Now let's enjoy beating Creighton, keeping our goal alive.

While the lack of NCAA tourney bid was a reasonable goal, at this point, it is going to take an incredible but possible run to get there. At this point, common sense is to get used to the idea that the greater likelihood is that we aren't getting an at large bid. Given that, for now, enjoy the resurgence of some very good basketball, some gritty wins, and leave it at that. After 0-5, and 2-6, a 10-3 or 8-2 finish is impressive in this conference. Disappointing, yes. Earth shattering, no. Just imagine if we go into our final conference game 10-7 with the taste of a bid right there, and we blow a 10 point lead and lose at the buzzer in the regular season finale. We all know what the posts would look like. Yes, this isn't Russia as Guinness77 complained, but a little balance would be nice also.

So by enjoy is that like a Mets fan enjoying a winning record in September when they already dug their grave in April to August? I'm not a Mets fan (I thank God every day) but just want to equate the enjoyment factor. I don't enjoy band aids over bullet holes.

I am a Mets fan, so we do have a different perspective on the expectation of winning. I'm not asking you to celebrate us finishing the season 3-2 over the last five and finishing at 6-12. I am saying this team played itself into a very deep hole definitely by poor late game performance and maybe some questionable coaching decisions. However, I think if we just fall short of a bid (10-8) in conference would mean that for 72% of the conference season (13 of 18 games) we'd have played winning basketball at a .769 clip (10-3). To me that would be disappoint in not going to the dance, but the kids could hold their heads up high and feel good about their overall performance.

This is why I go to every single game that my schedule allows - even when they are not winning, I haven't lost faith that they'd turn it around. I'm not pinning anything on myself as admirable - I think it's just a reality of this squad is that they are pretty good, and have played pretty well in all but one conference game. So I take it as it comes, and have enjoyed the season so far.

I notice you took the time to mention you go to ever single game your schedule allows even when not winning. I'm pretty darn certain thats a shot at me as you haven't seen me at some recent Garden games. Schedule is always a factor for whether someone attends a game. But $ and pure better use of time is another. I of late have found better use of my time and days than going to some MSG games. And it also saves me a nice bit of money as well.

As for what you enjoy I am happy you found this season/team enjoyable. But we definitely differ because I sure as hell haven't.

It's not a shot at you at all. I understand your situation, and would never throw that at you. I don't agree with better use of time, because you missed some pretty good games along the way. Then again, you have a life, I don't. No offense intended whatsoever, ok?

I have missed Nova loss, Prov loss at CA and Marquette win. Nova and Prov losses would have infuriated me if I was in attendance. Sitting at home or doing something and catching game later or in bits and pieces hardly has the same impact on me. So combine the lack of aggravation and the money saved I'm out ahead. Yeah Marquette game I'm sure it was fun to see live. Call the minority but I enjoy the CA games more. They are cheaper, its easier to get home and usually at better times. Maybe I'm just burned out. Spurned one too many times. I've seen this team play all across this country and its to the point now where even a trip into NYC is too much for me.

Ha! I hear you. Moose. I was at all three games and while the Marquette game was a lot of fun to watch, my visceral reaction to the Providence loss was "Lavin's got to go!" I was indeed infuriated at the way we lost that game at the end. Just writing this gets my blood pressure boiling!

I too enjoy games at CA more. It's expensive for me; about an hour's drive and $17.75 in tolls. But I enjoy the atmosphere at CA better. Garden games cost me more $ (MetroNorth fare) and especially way more time. And I'm not thrilled with these 7:00 PM Sunday night games coming up. But I'm a fan and an alum, so I'm committed to this team and this program and will always root for them, no matter who coaches them or what state our overall program is in.

 

[beast of the east]

I watched the Providence post-game interview with Lavin that someone else posted on the Providence thread.

At the very end, Lavin makes this comment: “Our team is just getting a better sense for one another.”

That comment, at this juncture in the season, is the reason I start to lose my mind when it comes to this coaching staff. We had just 2 new players to integrate –one of whom practiced with the team all last season! After a trip to Europe and 12 pre-conference games, that comment might have been appropriate on Day 1 of conference play. Not now.

I am thrilled with the recent winning streak and can’t wait to see them extract revenge on Creighton this Sunday. But something has to change program-wise—maybe it’s keeping Laving and getting stronger assistants, I don’t know. Otherwise, we’re going to repeat this tortuous cycle all over again come 2015 when the current core is gone.

You know, the thing about this team, whether we are winning or not, reminds me of music.

In a symphony, everything seems to come together in perfection. While perfection in sports is rare, we've had some teams over time - the Hardy team, the Artest team, the Mullin team, where the ball moved unselfishly, and there was a cohesiveness and chemistry about the teams.

In Jazz, there are a lot of solos and improvisation, and as my son played in a jazz band for three years, I never quite latched onto it as an art form. To me, this team is more jazz than symphony - a lot of really nice parts, but a least no sense of the chemistry and cohesiveness that makes basketball a beautiful game at times.

 

[L J S A]

I watched the Providence post-game interview with Lavin that someone else posted on the Providence thread.

At the very end, Lavin makes this comment: “Our team is just getting a better sense for one another.”

That comment, at this juncture in the season, is the reason I start to lose my mind when it comes to this coaching staff. We had just 2 new players to integrate –one of whom practiced with the team all last season! After a trip to Europe and 12 pre-conference games, that comment might have been appropriate on Day 1 of conference play. Not now.

I am thrilled with the recent winning streak and can’t wait to see them extract revenge on Creighton this Sunday. But something has to change program-wise—maybe it’s keeping Laving and getting stronger assistants, I don’t know. Otherwise, we’re going to repeat this tortuous cycle all over again come 2015 when the current core is gone.

You know, the thing about this team, whether we are winning or not, reminds me of music.

In a symphony, everything seems to come together in perfection. While perfection in sports is rare, we've had some teams over time - the Hardy team, the Artest team, the Mullin team, where the ball moved unselfishly, and there was a cohesiveness and chemistry about the teams.

In Jazz, there are a lot of solos and improvisation, and as my son played in a jazz band for three years, I never quite latched onto it as an art form. To me, this team is more jazz than symphony - a lot of really nice parts, but a least no sense of the chemistry and cohesiveness that makes basketball a beautiful game at times.

How long before jumbo_peanuts complains that "it's basketball, not music"?

 

[beast of the east]

I watched the Providence post-game interview with Lavin that someone else posted on the Providence thread.

At the very end, Lavin makes this comment: “Our team is just getting a better sense for one another.”

That comment, at this juncture in the season, is the reason I start to lose my mind when it comes to this coaching staff. We had just 2 new players to integrate –one of whom practiced with the team all last season! After a trip to Europe and 12 pre-conference games, that comment might have been appropriate on Day 1 of conference play. Not now.

I am thrilled with the recent winning streak and can’t wait to see them extract revenge on Creighton this Sunday. But something has to change program-wise—maybe it’s keeping Laving and getting stronger assistants, I don’t know. Otherwise, we’re going to repeat this tortuous cycle all over again come 2015 when the current core is gone.

You know, the thing about this team, whether we are winning or not, reminds me of music.

In a symphony, everything seems to come together in perfection. While perfection in sports is rare, we've had some teams over time - the Hardy team, the Artest team, the Mullin team, where the ball moved unselfishly, and there was a cohesiveness and chemistry about the teams.

In Jazz, there are a lot of solos and improvisation, and as my son played in a jazz band for three years, I never quite latched onto it as an art form. To me, this team is more jazz than symphony - a lot of really nice parts, but a least no sense of the chemistry and cohesiveness that makes basketball a beautiful game at times.

How long before jumbo_peanuts complains that "it's basketball, not music"?

I was going to ask him, "So, women say it's Jumbo, or a Peanut"? I would venture that it's just stupid

 

[1and1sju]

Barring any transfers. We will have all our major pieces back. Next year we can just build on this year. Lavin wont have to experiment w the lineups early on.

Some will say good news: all the major pieces will be back next year... bad news: that includes the coaches.

Lets not bury the coaches until the season is over, plenty of games left

I think no matter what happens, those posters who want to bury the coaches will still, and always will want to, bury the coaches. I'd love to see us win the BE tourny, make the NCAAs and go deep there. I'll bet you the "bury the coaches" gang will still be flaming away.

Yep, I guess there is always something to complain about- even after wins. What Lavin is wearing, Greene shot too much, why was Felix activated, Dom is a punk, Chiles is out of shape-- these were posted after Stj won! Can't even enjoy a W

So all is well then?

All isn't well, but the things some of the fans complain about seem trivial. My guess is we will beat Creighton and the take away will be the lack of fans at the game- so again another negative after a W.

So let me just get this straight.
If we beat Creighton nobody can make a comment about the lack of fans at the game?
If anything I expect that to come from the rah rah side of the fan base not someone down on Lavin or direction of program.

Oh and I agree coaches wardrobe is a joke of a discussion. As is the physique of our coaches. But in terms of redshirts, and what happens on the court and the actions of a player for going on 3 years now I think that is more than in the wheelhouse as topics for discussion. Regardless of if we win by 40

No one is questioning the appropriateness of commenting on aspects of the team, game, etc. And I haven't seen anyone post that everything is fine. There is always room for improvement. I'm sure the 'Cuse fans even believe that. But the negativity on this board, even after a good stretch as we've had, is mind boggling. I guess it depends on how one lives his or her life; glass half-full or glass half-empty.

Are you being serious right now? Room for improvement? Michigan State fans say there's still room for improvement. Villanova fans might be saying there's still room for improvement. We stunk for 3 months straight, and have been playing good basketball for about 2 1/2 weeks. We have a football field sized space for improvement.
We have huge holes in our players' lack of development, our coach's ability to manage a game, and an enormous cloud of uncertainty looming in the future because we're on track to once again be the youngest team in the world and start this cycle all over.

Everyone's glad the team is winning and playing better. That brightens everyone's day. But there are fundamental problems with the program.
That doesn't mean I don't root hard for coach and the guys, I do. And I'd love to see them make a run down the stretch here. But there are serious causes for concern and reasons to think the team is not headed in the right direction.