Keeping expectations in check (basketball edition)
When the football season started, I predicted a record of around 6-6, but more likely 5-7, and around an 8th-place Pac-10 finish.
Despite some talented players and continuity in the coaching staff, the schedule was daunting and there was little room for error. If everything worked out perfectly, maybe - MAYBE - seven wins. As we have found out, the room was filled with error.
Flash forward to basketball season, and I want to issue another proclamation. Don't get your hopes up too high.
To get this out of the way: Villanova is a fantastic basketball team, and UCLA is not at that level yet. I say yet, because there is a lot of talent on the Bruins, and it could come around to a top level at some point this year. Don't consider Wednesday's loss a low point.
But with so many things countering the talent increase - a penchant for turnovers, depth issues, defensive miscues - there are simply going to be some baffling losses this season.
With Brendan Lane questionable for today's game against VCU with a knee injury, it is a constant reminder that this team is perilously thin. Combine that with Joshua Smith's continual foul issues and this team will have trouble at times against even the least-imposing Pac-10 teams.
I'm not saying don't be optimistic about this basketball season, but I've seen and heard some people talking about a deep NCAA tournament run, or a Pac-10 championship, and that's just not probable, despite any talent advantages.
I'll settle for competitive and improving this year with an NCAA seed the goal.
Dude way to throw a wet blanket on bb. You're basically saying "we're not as good as you think," and we're only 4 games in. You're talking about Josh Smith's foul trouble? He's played 4 games in his career; he might get better - you never know, Jon.
"Don't get your hopes up???" If I had mediocre expectations for this team, I wouldn't bother checking out this blog for more info. And same goes for football. Don't tell me I should be satisfied with 6-6.
Aw c'mon. Next thing you'll be telling us is that there's no Santa Claus or Easter bunny.
Is it too late to ask Nikki Caldwell to swap guards for the rest of the year????
Hey Jon drop the Captcha crap. Its junk. This is my fourth try at a post. Gave up
No idea what you mean?