Arizona St (19) @ Oregon (3) - 2/09/20

[azfan]

Determining dirty play is based upon historical observation, not mere speculation about the future. You have a different opinion about Ryan's actions than I do. Moore, Ionescu, Pivec, and others who have competed against Ryan know that they have to protect themselves against her physical play at all times based upon how she has pushed the limits of acceptable physical play in the past. I recognize that Ryan isn't interested in winning any popularity contests with anybody on the opposing teams. I just think that you can be a tough player without a lot of the extra stuff that she interjects into the game. Basketball is a physical game. It doesn't have to be a dirty and ugly one as well.

This is one of the wonderful things about sports fandom. Differing points of view and perspectives and discussion of those points of view.

Obviously you and I have a different viewpoint on a physical competitive style of play by this particular player. I will readily admit as a Sun Devil fan I have a perspective and most likely a bias.

I use speculative in my response to you because in your post you indicated: "Will get someone hurt with her play."

To my knowledge after watching the Sun Devils and Robbi play over the last four years there hasn't been an injury a result of her play. That is she has not injured anyone so you were speculating that in the future she would.if I mischaracterized either your statement or intent I apologize. On the face of it it did seem to me you were speculating.

Over on the thread physical vs. dirty fellow BYer @Plebe outlined her view after a review of the Oregon/ASU game. I suppose I reference it because that analysis seems to fall in line with mine regarding Robbi and her competitive, fiery, physical style of play.

Moreover the Pac as you know is a very physical conference with Robbi being the recipient of a similar physical play that you see her evidence on the court. No Sun Devil or fan that I'm aware of has has found it necessary to assert that these other Pac players are dirty. Rather the observation that they are physical and competitive is appropriate.

Clearly Minyon, Sabrina and other players would much prefer a softer player allowing them freedom of movement. Ryan is just responding to the CTT defensive system.

 

[PAC-12HoopFan]

Players respect opposing players who play the game the right way and understand that physical play is a part of the equation. Players also discover quickly who is holding jerseys, grasping on screens, and elbowing away from the officials. ASU has played the way it plays for a long time. It is a system that CTT teaches and perpetuates. As a fan of showcasing player skill, I don't like the way that ASU holds and moves when screening. However, opposing teams can either complain or do something about it. The teams that adapt to that physical style of play will have a chance to beat ASU. Those that don't may be in for a long night.