Haven't posted in some time, having somewhat lost interest in following Illini basketball (after being a fanatic since the early 1980's). This is due in large part to the debacle of Weber's waning years, punctuated by my complete and utter loss of confidence in Groce's ability to shepherd a program, with last season's season-ending ruination being the final straw.
The only reason I happened to catch part of tonight's game is because it was on ESPN, and the game was playing on the television in the background (with closed captions on) at the hospital where my elderly mom is at.
Anyway, I believe it was late in the 1st half, after Indiana began pulling away, that Dan Dakich summed it up the best, and I'm paraphrasing: "There is no structure to Illinois' offense." And Dakich has been a fan of Groce since his hire, and calls Illini games fairly.
It's a nationally televised game, and if I'm a potential recruit listening to that commentary I'm going to have serious doubts about attending the UofI. Is it any wonder that Weber and Groce have been snake bitten on the recruiting trail?
Needless to say, I have far more important things to do in this all too brief life than to submit myself to the torture of watching my favorite college program go down the shitter.
So many great teams from 1980 to 2005, it's a pretty disconsolate feeling to witness how far Illinois basketball has devolved since 2005.
Good thing I live in Chicago, and have enjoyed the great Bulls run of the 90's and the Blackhawks' recent string of Stanley Cups. Heck, living a few blocks away from Wrigley Field, with the way the Cubs' front office has been pulling no punches, I may be in for the ultimate beer garden party with a World Series in the next few years.
It may or may not happen, but at least there is a reason to be hopeful.
Just like I tell my friends when they ask for advice on movie options: get a return on your two hour investment.
Sadly, that's not Illinois basketball, and it's been that way for damn near a decade.
Peace!