What Has Happened To Respectability In Basketball?
Consider this: Just two weeks ago, this team was seen as a potential contender for a playoff spot. However, in the past three games, they have suffered three consecutive losses, each by double-digit margins. While the performance against Minnesota was somewhat competitive, demonstrating some effort and resilience, the contests against Maryland and Purdue revealed a lack of fight and determination within the team.
The scores from these games reflect the team’s struggles. Losing by 17 points to Maryland, a team they had previously defeated and were thought to be evenly matched with, was disappointing. Even more concerning was the nearly 40-point blowout against Purdue, a team they have historically played tough against.
One glaring issue is the absence of strong leadership on the team. Unlike in previous seasons, there is no clear leader like Harper or McConnell to rally the team. Additionally, there is a lack of a standout star player who can inspire and elevate the performance of the entire team.
These recent performances have significantly diminished the team’s reputation. In basketball, respect is earned through effort, perseverance, and never giving up. However, the team’s inability to execute fundamental aspects of the game, such as inbound plays, raises questions about their commitment and focus. It seems as though the mindset within the team is shifting towards prioritizing next year over the current season, which does not bode well for earning respect from fans or opponents. If this mentality persists, it could have detrimental effects on the program’s future.
