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I understand the point some are making in regards to Brannen having a tough beginning as coach here.

We far too often try to make comparison which often hinder the objective of statements being made. The circumstances are totally different than what Cronin went through.

The team was hosed last year. Maybe they don't win a tourney game, but I think they had a great shot and many would be head over heals with Brannen right now if so. I could have even seen the team making a lil run. Key seniors and KW were playing well. Tre Scott's game was off the charts as well looking back on statistics.

These are not normal times and I think they impacts a new coach at a school that can't show recruits stability which many are looking for during these times.

I have been more than pleased with offense and recruiting thus far. I love the kids we have grabbed including MAW, Harvey, Eason, Davenport, Saunders, etc. I'm willing to give him time before hammering our coach.

I would love to see an improvement in defense ASAP though. I'm also interested in seeing his first big man recruit (not transfers). I could be wrong but I see Eason at 4. Maybe 5 with small lineup.

(12-10-2020 08:46 PM)UCBearcatlawjd2 Wrote:  

(12-10-2020 07:59 PM)Bearcatbdub Wrote:   In truth he probably needs it because in some ways his first season are harder than Mick’s first two based on chaos and expectations

What?



What?!


Wow!

The program just came off two really awful NCAA tournament failures that basically killed off any good vibes built up by Cronin, Brannen was hired to be the anti-Cronin in terms of philosophy. Last year was a mess of a roster and then Covid hits and with it the post season. He basically can’t recruit like he wants to due to Covid so it’s hard build the program. Different problems but not an easy situation.

Not mention the program continues to lose Xavier went 0-2 against Ohio State and had watched other regional programs like Kentucky, Louisville, and Dayton see various levels of success. The football team gets almost all the media attention ( they freaking deserve it) from UC. UC basketball in 2020 isn’t an easy job. Expectations are high based on the legacy of the program but the current environment to succeed is really hard. I always get back to fit. I am still not sure if Brannen was the right fit for UC, I am not sure if he is a good coach or a bad one. He could be a good coach at the wrong school or a great coach that needs a few years. I have seen both good and bad so far.

Agreed, the jury is still out. We should all try to be positive and supportive through the next couple of seasons before making any firm judgments. Barring disaster, a coach is entitled to four seasons before folks call for his head; that allows his first class to graduate and second to reach senior year.