Santa Clara Men's Basketball - The Search Continues

 

                                                                                                                  

It's now thirty games into our season and we still seem to be searching for a lineup that can start a game, execute some consistency on offense and defense, exploit favorable matchups, and make good decisions with the basketball.  What was a conundrum has now become an enigma, perplexing, or any other term to describe a roster that can beat top 25 teams and lose four games to teams wallowing down in the #250-320 in the rankings.  

Portland was just the latest example of not figuring out the above.  In spite of the Broncos being outrebounded, outshot, and giving up 38 points in the paint, we were one missed free throw away, with 15 seconds left, from winning that game.  It's de-ja' vu from the recent USF loss.  It's a reason that St. Mary's is dominating the WCC this year.  They make proper adjustments and are coached to and able to close out games even when they don't play well.  

We watched as Portland's Tyler Robertson torched us, again, for 32 points without making a three point shot.  They took advantage of our small lineup and pounded the ball to him down in the paint and we couldn't stop it with Tilly and Caffaro on the bench.  They also spread the floor wide and drove the lane unimpeded for layups.  On our part, we didn't seem to try to exploit our height advantage.  Tilly and Caffaro played a total of 24 minutes scoring only six points. 

For Bronco Fans and Season Ticket Holders, an 18-12 record is below expectations.  Sure injuries, short rest intervals between games due to travel are factors, but not unlike what other WCC teams have faced.  The Gaels are without a starter and are still thriving. 

Tonight versus USF is another chance to solve the jig saw puzzle.  There are no secrets as to how USF plays and how distasteful that loss was to our team.   Although it changes nothing in the final standings, it could at least be one hopeful momentum builder for the WCC  tourney next week.  Winning the WCC tourney is our long odds chance for a post season invite.  

If we can get to 20 wins again, it will at least keep hope alive that we can build something better for 2025.  

Let's do our part tonight by being loud and strong for our players to get this grudge win!