Never been a big fan of Hillsman or that Syracuse program… That infamous, oft-discussed 2009 game was an absolute travesty, and I do not buy his explanation that they couldn't squeeze UConn into last year's schedule to give Stewie a homecoming game. And no, Syracuse didn't "owe" her that, or anything. But given that we're talking about a legendary college player, with whom Hillsman had a relationship going back to her younger days attending Syracuse basketball camps, their decision not to accommodate her last year smacks of recruiting-game sour grapes. They had every right to do that, but that doesn't mean UConn fans have to like it.
All that said, gotta be fair: I thought Hillsman handled everything at last year's Final Four with total class. And although his team played hard and aggressive basketball in the final, there was none of the roughhousing or other associated nonsense that his earlier teams were known for.
As far as this present controversy, I usually have no regard for a team that is up 20 or 30 late in a game but still goes out of its way to continue pressing an overwhelmed opponent. But the problem here, as bags just alluded to, is that Syracuse's entire philosophy is built around gaining extra possessions by pressing an opponent like hell for 40 minutes. So, particularly at this point in the season, how is Hillsman supposed to train his team to do that in game conditions, except by pressing for all 40 minutes regardless of the score? I'm still not in love with it, but I understand it.
Am I the only one wondering whether UNC is keeping Hatchell around now only so they'll have a sacrificial lamb at the ready to throw under the bus once the NCAA excrement finally hits the fan?
I watched the Elon-JMU game on Sunday...... tough tough game and loss. One negative is that the conference tournament is at James Madison..... and they usually get a pretty good.. and loud crowd for their games. 