Post by thefriarman on Mar 20, 2019 14:09:26 GMT -5
I would like to do a 180 degree about face and post something positive. I want to say thank you to the 2018-2019 Friars for working hard all year and putting forth a great effort (last night notwithstanding).
Going into last night, they were 37th in defensive efficiency at Ken Pom, the best mark of any BE team. That is a fine showing and is even more impressive when you consider: 1. Their offense was terrible 2. They were never really at any point in contention for an NCAA bid and 3. Lineups were always in flux and guys never knew from game to game who was going to be playing significant minutes. The fact they stayed locked in across 33 games to finish with a top 40 defense is an impressive feat and one they should take pride in. Despite the uncertainty over playing time, the bench always seemed actively engaged and supportive of their teammates despite the fact that I am sure many of them were thinking why is that guy playing right now and not me? This seemed like a great group of young men who represented PC with dignity, class and honor. I wish nothing but the best for Isaiah Jackson in the next chapter of his life as well as any other members of this year's team who decide to move on to pursue other opportunities outside of Providence, RI. There isn't a single unlikable player on this team and I appreciate their contributions throughout this very frustrating season.
Having said all of that, I hope every player who returns for the 2019-2020 season works his butt off between now and October and comes into the new season a significantly improved player. I don't really want to hash out all of our short comings, we all know them and have commented about them ad nauseam. I am sure both the coaches and players know the issues we need to address, it is now incumbent upon everyone to put in the effort required to correct those problems. I would love it if multiple players make great strides in their games and improve significantly, much like Bentil, Batts, Cotton and Cartwight have done before. This year was undoubtedly tough on us fans just watching our team struggle so frequently on offense, I can't even imagine how frustrating it must have been for the players and coaches. Fortunately, all of that is in the past now. The real work begins today and I hope everyone is ready to dig deep and spend the appropriate amount of time in the gym in order to make this past season an aberration.
Well said on both fronts!