Santa Clara Men's Basketball - "What are the Odds"

The Broncos returned from the WCC Tourney in Las Vegas "breaking even" with a blowout win over LMU and a frustrating loss to BYU.  

In the LMU blowout, they looked like the team we'd hoped for all season.  Solid at both ends.  

The BYU game showed we have athletes who can compete, but are still searching for the confidence and execution needed to close out good opponents. 

So, "Leaving Las Vegas" - where do we go from here?

Do we "hold-em" or ante up?

The "hold-em" odds-makers are already in hype mode of how great it's going to be.  Another new crop of recruits to go with more experienced returnees portends a team rising. There will be a ton of gee whiz stats that satisfy some, but haven't translated into W's.  As season ticket holders and fans, we're getting worn out hearing how great it's going to be - how about really being great???

With six losing record seasons out of our past eight - we need some great NOW.  

What are the odds?

The "ante up" odds-makers are looking to the University leadership to implement the President's Commission on Athletics recommendations in true Silicon Valley fashion - act bold, entrepreneurial - move quickly... 

What are the odds? 

Maybe it's time to "roll the dice" and spend some money for better marketing, recruiting, and a stronger schedule?  Does the "We're on a Mission" PR tag line have measurements or accountability?

What are the odds?

Athletics has submitted its "get competitive" plan to the University and Trustees.  My guess is that it's a five year road map.  In Silicon Valley, that's almost three technology generations.  For Men's Basketball, that's about one full recruiting cycle (up to six years) including the time incubating redshirts. 

Translation.  Best case, NCAA at-large in two years (Brownridge's senior year) OR, in four years, when the 2015-2016 new recruits are seniors.  This assumes we don't "find" another Nash-like uber star.

My odds say that our best NCAA chance is in two years.  I'll elaborate more on that scenario soon.

The point remains the same - opportunity.  SCU has tremendous credentials to enable Athletics be to nationally successful. 

Everyone knows it - including our WCC competitors.  

BUT, they don't think we have the will or the drive to make it happen.  It's time.  We're all involved.  No more status quo.  

It's time to "double down".  Make it happen...

What are the odds?

Next:   Season Recap

Don't forget to follow me on Twitter @Fcrary.