Just when fans are about to give up on someone during the Rick Pitino era …
That player seems to emerge, playing a key role, forcing doubters to question themselves, regretting premature conclusions. Pitino never gives up on a player, applying all the considerable motivational, even psychological, tools at his disposal. Sometimes it takes a while, other times only good for a brief while.
The Louisville-DePaul game in the second half, every play critical. Yet that’s Terrence Jennings out there, playing most of the half. The same player Pitino was fearful of using in the Notre Dame cliffhanger. Standing in, mind you, for an associate who had scored 36 points on Wednesday.
The probably premature conclusion here is that Jennings sat on the bench long enough to get that hungry look in his eye. Pitino recognizes the look, knows Sarmado can use a break, and hustles Jennings to the score table, into the fray.
Jennings, eager to please, happy to play again, responds with a game on the line. Five offensive rebounds, four on defense, four of six field goal attempts, and four huge shot blocks.
One can only see the look up close on television when a player goes to the free throw line, Jennings making only one of six attempts. A new expression, replacing the spaced out look and chewing gum-induced chomping. One of intensity, knowing he was on the spot, having to respond.
Terrence Jennings would respond in a big way on this day, hopefully taking mental notes about what it takes to succeed on a more consistent basis.
It was the lack of Louisville’s ability to stop DePaul’s penetration in the paint that got T.J. the extended minutes. Turned out to be a good thing for the Cards.
5-1 in Feb. now for the Cards. A batlle up next with Georgetown..but a battle in Freedom Hall. I like our chances.
Sure wish Andre had some eligibilty left. Think he could sneak in wearing someone else’s uni.
All these changing lineups make it hard to prepare for Louisville. The fans definitely don’t know what to expect.
Kuric was on fire in the first half. Did he get in the second half?
That was a strange game. What was especially curious was the small amount of playing time for Mike Marra. Just when you think you’ve got the lineup figured out, it changes. Whatever, as long as we win.
Pitino’s postgame remarks revealed TJ was in there for defense since SamSam wasn’t getting it done on that front.
And even with a questionable third foul call and an entirely bogus fourth Edgar played a terrific game. When his head is right he can be a very good point guard.