We simply had possessions where we threw the ball to them. We simply couldn't catch and pass. |
We simply have struggled shooting the basketball. We had open looks against Indiana and against Ohio State. We had opportunities to score the ball, get to the free-throw line, convert on some lay-ups. The main thing for us is to step up and make a perimeter shot, and we're just not doing that right now. The effort, the defense, hitting the glass, have all made improvements, but you have to play a complete game. It's not a lack of effort from our guys. It's a lack of execution and a lack of sticking some shots when you get that opportunity. |
We tried like hell. We just didn't make them adjust, because we didn't make enough shots. |
We wanted to keep it out of transition and obviously not turn the ball over or shoot the ball quick. If you shoot the ball too quick from the baseline, it's usually going to lead to a sprint out by Dee. |
We wish (Ware played) 30 or 35 minutes (instead of 21) because we were trying to go through him every single possession. To draw that double team and kick it out and get some open shots, or to dribble through the double team and try to score. |
We've not made excuses. We've kept plugging away. Our goal was to get to the NCAA Tournament. We still have the Big Ten tournament. Crazy things happen. Each game is our season. Let's hang on to these days and do everything we can to win. |
When he makes good decisions, he is going to give us production. I think tonight he did a good job of that. He's got to be a guy who blocks shots, rebounds and is very active. |
When they have three, four of those [turnovers leading to baskets], that's not eight points, that's a 16-point swing. |
When we have determined all the facts, we will decide on the next appropriate action. |
When you have distractions, and I'm an expert on that from this season, it's tough to get everybody thinking positive. It's tough to get 19- to 20-year-olds to concentrate on the task at hand when so many people outside the program -- whether students, media or people from your hometown -- are talking about, 'Is your head coach going to be there.' Now the focus is really on the team. |
Yes, I would say so. Especially with Bryant Dillon making the shot and putting us up three and in position. |
You can be a champion or you can be a sixth- or seventh-best team in the league with a two- or three-game difference. Things can snowball either way. |
You can't sit there and feel sorry for yourself because … you really don't have any problems. You're just short-handed on your basketball team. |
You cannot let guys who can shoot get their head up and get comfortable here at home. You have to continue to disrupt, you cannot let people do what they want to do and we didn't pressure the ball. You're not going to beat a good team when you allow perimeter shooters to get into a rhythm. |
You evaluate everything in the spring. That's what we're trying to do now in terms of players and coaches and support people around the program. |