The Front Row

Right after he missed a gimme layup

Matta was sending a message to the whole team, "I'm not f'ing around anymore with people who play without intensity and then whine to the refs" He knows Rav is a Senior and a stand-up guy who won't pout and disappear for the rest of the season. That face said to me, "If this is what it takes to get their attention, G-D it that's what they'll get." It is not his normal style and he probably feels bad about having to do it, but his job is to win basketball games and this team plays to the level of their competition night after night. Seems to be like this for most teams in the BIG this year.

Ravs reaction is mild to many of DT's pouting. In last weeks game DT thought he was fouled and jogged back while his man beat him down the court and scored. Last night he negected to cover a fast breaker and gave him a clear lane to the rim. It's time DT realizes his postion in the draft is dictated by both ends of the court. Then again he's the best offensive threat we have.

Personally, I think we are limited at the center position, but I see more effort and energy out of Rav. For that reason, I would play him more than Amir. Unfortunately Amir plays flat footed, out of postion and has weak hands. Makes you appreciate what Sully did for the previous 2 years. Get mean Amir!!! On the other hand, the small lineup seemed to actually work well last night.

Finally, Matta has recieved much criticism over the last few years about the use of his bench. It appears that this year he sees the opportunity to develop his second line since there is not a significant drop in talent. I think his use of the bench will pay off in the comming years. Shannon Scotts defense and effort is fun to watch.