It's been a strange year for UConn basketball, to say the least. As I'm sure most of you know, due to an academic NCAA violation, one that has absolutely nothing to do with anyone currently on the roster, the Huskies are banned from the post season this year. That includes both the NCAA Tournament as well as the Big East Conference Tournament. The latter is particularly sad since this is the last year that the Big East, as we know it, will be in existence. UConn, as one of the founding members of the conference, has been intertwined in so many of the most memorable moments at the Garden; most recently the Kemba walker 'Pitt-fall' buzzer beater. They have also been involved in some pretty wild NCAA Tourney moments, including the Tate George and Rip Hamilton game winners. For those of you who have never seen those clips, or, like me, simply can't watch them enough, I'll throw the videos on the bottom of this post.
But enough about the past. We can't just sit here and feel sorry for ourselves all year. I assume most UConn fans have not been paying as close attention to the team as they usually do this year, so allow me to give you some bullet points as well as my take away from this 'practice' year:
- First of all, I am hesitant to use the term 'practice' year, as that implies that there is nothing to play for. With the passing of the torch from Jim Calhoun to Kevin Ollie, the team was presented with a unique challenge. Since Ollie was only signed to a 1 season contract, the teams performance served as an extended interview of sorts. After getting off to a pretty hot start, the team came together to earn a large contract extension for the first year head coach.
- Kevin Ollie's performance review was not simply based upon stats and record. It was a priority of University President Susan Herbst, and A.D. Ward Manuel to make sure that Coach Ollie had a firm grasp on his team's classroom performance as well. In fact, it wasn't until the 1st semester grades were released that UConn decided to extend Ollie's contract. Leading the pack were Shabazz Napier, Niels Giffey, Leon Tolksdorf, and R.J. Evans who all posted a 3.0 or above this fall. The four were honored for their accomplishment before their game against USF.
- Napier has been a leader on the court as well. Last year, problems arose as there seemed to be some question as to who the true leader of the team was; an emotionally checked-out Alex Oriakhi or a trigger happy Napier with an underdeveloped voice of leadership. Well, there is no question who runs the show this year. Through end of game heroics, an unshakable confidence, and top tier performances both on the court and in the classroom, Napier has developed into a budding star. With another year to go in his collegiate career and what is shaping up to be the same team with a few freshman additions, all the pieces are in place for Napier to take this team on a long tournament run in the 2013-2014 season.
With a tough schedule ahead of them, UConn will attempt to finish strong against some very talented opponents. The remaining schedule is as follows:
- Feb 10 - UConn at Seton Hall
- Feb 13 - UConn vs. Syracuse
- Feb 16 - UConn vs. Villanova
- Feb 21 - UConn vs. Cincinnati
- Feb 23 - UConn at DePaul
- Feb 27 - UConn vs. Georgetown
- Mar 02 - UConn at Cincinnati
- Mar 06 - UConn at USF
- Mar 09 - UConn vs. Providence
With 5 wins to go before passing the 20 win mark, this team has already over-performed based on a less than talented team compared to past years. At the very least, you have to admire the heart. Before I wrap this post up, it's worth acknowledging the efforts of Enosch Wolf who was called upon to replace the void at Center and has done so with flying colors. When he's not blocking shots, his 7'1" presence is at the very least forcing opponents to question coming inside. A much appreciated accomplishment from an unsung hero.
(Kemba Walker vs. Pittsburgh)
(Richard Hamilton vs. Washington)
(Tate George vs. Clemson)
