There are a few TRUTHS in the game of college basketball in order to be successful. You have to be able to score the basketball, defend the basketball, rebound the basketball and take care of the basketball. It does not seem that complicated when you break it down into simplicity's. Over the weekend our TEAM did not have problems scoring the basketball as we completed 50% of our possessions successfully, but when you look at our ability to control the defensive boards as well as value the ball by not turning it over to the other team.... WE struggled.
The Lumberjack basketball TEAM dropped to 4-4 overall after losing back to back games at the Baymont Inn Classic in Wahpeton, ND as we competed against Trinity Bible (L 90-76) and Northeast CC out of Nebraska (L 90-80). There are two statistical categories we must show a sense of urgency to control as giving up offensive rebounds was clearly a major concern by allowing 40+ ORB in two games. Being a TEAM that lacks size it is not necessarily an effort issues as the coaching staff will be challenged to develop successful techniques, and strategies. TRUTH is we are not going to miraculously grow any taller as every team we play is going to have a size advantage. Turnovers also plagued our ability to have an opportunity to win as we literally gave the ball to the other team 50+ times in two games. This category is extremely frustrating because we do have power to value the ball by throwing strong passes, having fundamental footwork, and understanding how to make the right play.
FACT: It will be tough for us to beat any good team when we provide the opponent with 20 extra possessions during a game.
On a positive note, I believe both areas of emphasis are correctable. Nothing is broke. The fact that our TEAM had a chance to win both games while dealing with poor play in these two categories should be motivational for our guys. Allowing 90ppg is not a recipe for success, but limiting turnovers and improving our ability to control the defensive boards will cut down opponents points dramatically. We have 10 days before our next competition against Dawson CC in Glendive, and you can be certain our Jacks will be correcting these mistakes.
Continue to support our Lumberjacks as this process will be continually evolving as WE find our stride.
Next Home Game will be Dec. 1st as WE take on Minot AFB at 7pm.
