Here's my completely meaningless postgame thoughts:
Don't give up. This is a bruised, hurting team. The kind of team that could fold on a season and just be another so-so line in a record book. But, this team - whittled to its core like it is - has heart and strength of will. At times it may just seem like it's only Shannon's will or Kevon's, but they are finding their depth of character, and they will not quit. Whether it's down 12 with 2:57 or by 7 with 28 seconds left. They play until the buzzer. They will play until the very last second of the last game. Don't give up.
We made ACU play our game all night. The coaches planned out their strategy to stymie this offense that's been putting up 76 a night, and we strangled them. We played some horribly ugly ball for long stretches, but it was played at our pace not theirs. In some ways, I believe that the second half may have been the most dominant of the year. Kevon and Shannon may have been utterly gassed, but we cornered the Wildcats, and did what it takes to win.
Fitz had a terrible first half. Thankfully, he came alive in the second round. Bain was awesome in the first. Sammy owned the second. Gru is now the best passer on the team. Comeaux's change of pace - while not always productive - throws a wrench in the other team's scheme. Oh, and he had 4 huge steals. Oddyst's minutes letting Shannon get 3 of rest may have won the game.
Kevon is a stud. 40 minutes. Solid as a rock. I want this season for Shannon, but Kevon is the best player in the Southland. Period. Best defender. Best playmaker. Kevon is a winner.
Shannon may be the greatest Jack clutch shooter by the end of this season. He willed the basket to widen out to receive his too flat, too fast prayer of a shot, but because he's a basketball demigod, it did. I'll roll with him every time.
One third of the season down. 3-3. First two game D1 win streak of the season. Feels a lot better than 2-4. Feels like momentum. Like all the dead weight of the first part of the season is about to be left behind, and we're going to roll. At least that's what I'm telling myself until next week.
Sleep well Jacks fans.
Ryan
Kinnaird Guitars