I've taken a break from the boards, and after hearing all of these new guys post, I really don't understand why?
I love watching High School basketball. I've missed one Waverly game in the past 4 years. (that was only because I was out of town) I know I've said it a lot on here, but it's something I am proud of. Especially not being on the team or having a relative that is. I love the way the Tigers are playing this year. Not just the "triplets", but the entire team. I love the run and gun style of play. I guess you could compare the style of play to a Memphis or Duke team from this year in the NCAA. That being said, I know Waverly is absolutely nothing compared to those two teams. Which High School team is? But I was referring to having a dominate post presence. the 2004-2005 season was the last time we had reasonable size down low, but we had it all that year.
But let's not get wrapped up in a discussion about the past, let's talk about the present. People all around say that size is the problem. My answer to that is, push the tempo more. You are going to have more turnovers that way, but you'll also generate better scoring chances. This team cannot run it's half court offense as well as a team would like, so you must control the tempo. Coach Rawlings knows the strengths and weaknesses of his teams better than anyone on this board, school, or county. I respect his coaching decisions.
Not to be rude concerned22, but I must be sitting on the opposite side of the gym from you during the games. I have not heard one person say Coach Kevin is taking players out because of his scoring records. That is preposterous. For one, his records are not in danger. If Vogel keeps getting better, and has a crazy Junior and Senior season, he may come close. But Coach Rawlings was amazing while playing for the Tigers, no one can deny that. I didn't see him play, but you look at his stats and you can see what a brilliant athlete he was.
I don't know who you two new guys are, concerned22 and keepinitreal. And I would be lying if I didn't say that I would like to know, lol. But you both seemed very informed, well for the most part. keepinitreal, you just seem to like to critique each part of a persons post and personally bash that person without letting people know your own opinion about the subject matter. I might have missed it, I probably did, I've had a long day. But I'm sure you'll enlighten us with some more of your lovely knowledge later.
I haven't even talked about the triplets that much, so let's begin.
Vogel seemed like he was playing above himself in the first couple games. Granted, if I had his talent I probably would too. He has calmed down a lot and seems like he has matured more than I expected this season. He has become a lot smarter with the basketball and is acting like he wants it more. He is a stand up guy too. Can't say enough about his talents on and off the court.
Leonard. I love the kid to death. In everything he does he takes a headfirst dive. Not hesitating a bit. I would trust my life with his shooting ability. Well, that is taking it a little far, but you get my point. This year he has also became a Shooting Guard that is not a afraid to drive the lane at all. He goes after every rebound and dives after every single loose ball. In my opinion he is the heart and soul of this team. I have the utmost respect for him, and I know he does for me as well.
Gilbert, he has great ball handling ability and can pass with the best of them. No I am not hailing him as LeBron or Wilt or Larry. I don't recall anyone doing that. But he is a great ball player. He can score when needed and can play defense against anyone that he'll be matched up with this season. You are right, he could score more but is unselfish and hits the shots when the team needs them the most.
All three of these players are great assets to the team, but why single these out from the rest of the guys. Jackson, Fuller, Hollis (who just got back from a foot injury), Anderson (just off injury), and several others. Jeff Jackson has played exceptionally well, especially for this being his first year on varsity. He never backs down from anyone and never gives up. He'll be a great addition when next season rolls around. Fuller can rebound better than anyone on the team, especially on the offensive end. He plays good defense and knows where he stands on this team. Good kid, and a good ball player. I'm gonna stop there, but I'm sure there is plenty more to say.
Good luck to the Tigers the rest of the season, I'll be there with you all the way fellas.
P.S.... keepinitreal, I'll play you in 1 on 1 if rednecktiger won't report to you about his intramural team. I don't care if you drop 20 on me without me getting a shot off, I'll have fun either way.
