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Message: [QUOTE="tennmike, post: 4157354, member: 4444"] I'll get eviscerated for these observations, but repeatedly losing games that are winnable causes angst and reflection. Andre is among the least of the team problems. [LIST=1] [*]Freshman Akok was all over the court. Post-injury junior Akok camps out at the 3-point line and runs through the paint like he's on hot coals (perhaps by design to give Adama room). Not sure if it is in his head or physical limitations. His game is starting to look like Polley's. [*]Whaley has lost muscle mass during the off season. He looks weak and his play has been consistent with that (fainting, maybe long COVID). Can't understand the constant refrain that Sampson needs to get stronger to get on the court. He is bigger than most. [*]Gaffney is nearly unplayable and it's alarming Diggins cannot beat him out. The redshirt decision on Floyd is appearing like Hurley was protecting Gaffney's minutes. Floyd looks strong, tough, and competitive. We sort of need that. [*] Right now, Hawkins is not looking like the "next one." Not saying he will not get there, but it's not imminent. [*]Polley is what he has been. Don't dislike him; it is what is is. [*]It's been said that we are winning 30% of our 50/50 games. I think that is being overly generous. Hurley's record against ranked teams and 50/50 games is awful. [*]Auburn was a good win, but pointing to our OT victory over VCU as testament to being able to win close games? It's VCU! [*]And then all the issues with in-game adjustments, substitutions, end of game plays,... [/LIST] Despite the limitations, Hurley and crew have coached this team to be competitively good, but unfortunately, it's not a team that equipped to survive long in the pressure-packed tourney. There's still time, but tons of stuff to address. [/QUOTE]

Verification: First name of men's bb coach