I said before the season that the difference between an average and a very good season is winning our share of close games. I think we are 4-0 in games decided by 3 or less points (I count the overtime since the point differential was zero at the end of regulation). A few of bounces of the ball (ex. Pepperdine or ULM hitting open looks at the buzzer) and we could be 5-8 instead of 9-4. That's an incredible difference and much of it dependent on nothing more than luck- a shot going in or not going in at the buzzer.

Of course, the downside of that is allowing yourself to have so many close games to begin with. We are winning our share of the close ones, but we are letting too many of them be close.

We certainly appear to lack the "killer instinct" and the ability to put teams away. But the reality is, now that conference season is here, we are not going to "out talent" very many of the teams left on our schedule. We are going to win because of our intensity, hustle, hardnosed defense, etc. and that will likely mean a lot more close games.

[quote='mjs' pid='3861146' dateline='1230838755']
We certainly appear to lack the "killer instinct" and the ability to put teams away. But the reality is, now that conference season is here, we are not going to "out talent" very many of the teams left on our schedule. We are going to win because of our intensity, hustle, hardnosed defense, etc. and that will likely mean a lot more close games.

They should pass out valium to all of us old regulars because my nerves are getting worn down to the nub. Every game is a nail biter. I would love a few blowouts. Assuming we're doing the blowing out.

[quote='mjs' pid='3861072' dateline='1230836744']
I said before the season that the difference between an average and a very good season is winning our share of close games. I think we are 4-0 in games decided by 3 or less points (I count the overtime since the point differential was zero at the end of regulation). A few of bounces of the ball (ex. Pepperdine or ULM hitting open looks at the buzzer) and we could be 5-8 instead of 9-4. That's an incredible difference and much of it dependent on nothing more than luck- a shot going in or not going in at the buzzer.

You're right. There's a fine line between winning and losing. And when you always keep other teams in the game, your chances of losing increase greatly. I know we don't plan to do that, but our style normally lends itself to close games. I just hope our luck holds out.

We have at least a couple of players with "that look" about them, speaking of Fowler and Stevie. Mental toughness that wins close games. And they aren't the only ones.