But that doesn't mean it fails; it does what it is.
Real richness means to act as if you have nothing,
Because then you will never be drained of it."
- Tao Te Ching
We had no "practice" this week, only a voluntary shooting session for an hour of gym time. Most of the team couldn't make it. We cannot trade in excuses. We came out not ready to play, without energy, intensity, or will to compete. A time out a minute into the game did nothing. Neither did a second about four minutes in.
Our opponents executed well, but it was like taking candy from a baby.
a) Wing entry, UCLA cut for layup
b) Wing entry, guard buries, side ball screen and roll
c) Wing entry, 5 rolls, layup
d) post entry (not shown), blind pig (back door cut)
At some point, you have to concentrate, communicate, anticipate, and react especially when you have 'taught to the test'. The meek may inherit the earth, but they don't inherit the court. Adversity demands responses.
Skill does not define transition defense. Skill doesn't determine communication. Skill doesn't inform ball movement, cutting, boxing out, willing passing, taking charges, denying cuts, shot selection, or ball pressure.
Multiple parents came up to me after the game to say they felt bad (for me). It's never the opponent's job to ease up on you; it's our job to contain them. I told the team at half-time that I've taken 45 point losses to state champions...but I've lost to talent not lack of effort.
We'll get back at it tomorrow, as the post-season starts Friday (everyone qualifies). We need to intensify our concentration, energy, and intensity.