For the first time this year Mercer looks just plain bad. The first half was pretty good...the second half is absolutely terrible. Only 8 points over the first 12+ minutes of the 2nd half. Plus a ton of mistakes. Really from the last minute of the 1st half with a bizarre play call the wheels fell off. Hope to see a turnaround @ Georgia Tech! I know (and they know) they are better than this.
went to the game last night, I would agree; I thought they were playing chess instead of basketball. Gollon was aggressive early as was Coursey, but the others didn't pick up that attitude until later. At that point, the Bulldogs found their stride and were not going to be defeated in front of a home crowd.
The real concern is WHO is going to take the leadership reins on offense. Gollon and Hall technically have it now, but the problem is they are not the most explosive athletes on the squad. That was the problem against Georgia last night; not enough effort being given to attacking the basket and getting free throw attempts.
I personally think Justin Cecil should make a stronger effort to draw and kick or penetrate and draw fouls. He's a very good three-point shooter but he's 6'8 with a handle. Running a pick and pop with Langston or a give and go with Coursey seems like a no-brainer with him because Cecil can shoot, has length and can dribble the ball well.
Welcome to the board! You're right that Gollon and Coursey were great early, but then got into foul trouble. Cecil can shoot in spurts, but last night he missed some critical wide open shots. Would like to see more of Travis Smith, he looked pretty good again. I'm wondering if Smith might be starting later this season over Cecil, or more likely starting next year? Either way needs to develop to be ready for next year too.
I want to see what happens at Georgia Tech to get a feel for where the team is at. UGA loss could be from the rough turnaround flying in from Seton Hall right before.
The turnaround could have played a part in the stagnant offensive showing - I'll concede that. I just don't see any deliberate pattern on the part of the players, like if there is one particular player they want to get involved early. Not necessarily to carry the club but someone who will pick up their offense when the defense plays us aggressively.