So did they win a close game by shooting 44% from 3, 86% from the line, and board win of 52 to 23....or did they almost blow it with by getting embarrassed 18-4 in turnovers. Extreme in all four areas...but this game should not have been close.
Yet you have to like so many good things, especially the srs. getting it done after Hawk fouled out. Plummer was not used much in the second half....until needed....but he has to get touches with the game on the line. My solution, as I stated on the game thread, would be to hand out a question for all players to answer. Who do you get the ball to in the last 4 min. of a close game? Anyone who does not write AP loses his scholarship.
Yet, tonight was another head-shaker resulting in a W and we will all take it. Kofi and others continued to look to the arc when in a scrum and it payed off. Got to continue. Kofi was an offensive dervish and hit his freebies at 86%. But trying to clean the ball off with his shoelaces after a catch has got to go. Nevertheless, I would sure rather play on his side than against him.
Good game to win and from which to learn. Must spend more time on EXACTLY what to do against a press....every man. Ball has to move quicker and stopping it plays into the pressing team's hands. Not sure Curbelo will help since it is not difficult to learn or execute. This team should want opposition to press and make them pay for it. Too much talent and experience, but the blunders and indecision have to be erased.
Finally, for me personally, the next game is a nightmare....but I always love to see the Illini hoopsters beat my Cats...never doubt that.