Four weeks ago, I demanded that Mike Brey be fired, stating a plethora of facts about his lack of coaching ability, his team's inability to win, and the downward trend of the Notre Dame Basketball program over the last few years - namely Brey's failures come tournament time.
At that time, the Irish were 17-8 and right around 11th in the Big East. With a formidable schedule remaining, I, for one, announced the end to the Irish season as I bet without a doubt the Irish had no chance at and were undeserving of, an NCAA Tournament berth. However, the Irish rebounded (literally) from a double overtime loss to Louisville, reeling off four straight wins over quality opponents - bursting a bubble that was not their own (Connecticut)- while finishing 23-10, good for 7th in the Big East. Not to mention, the momentum willed the Irish to two more wins, almost reaching the finals in the Big East Tournament - a rarity during the Mike Brey era and a dream only four weeks ago.
Now, the Irish are set to take the stage in the first round of the NCAA Tournament on Thursday, as a 6th seed vs. Old Dominion. Many Irish fans, myself included, beg the question: What happened? I believe the Irish came together, played together and showed a renewed focus on defense.
The most obvious change was the departure from the long frustrating "Move!" offense in which the Irish simply tried to outscore the opponent. The biggest problem with this style of play is that you rely entirely on shooting - which is unpredictable at best. The new scheme requires discipline, slowing down the pace of play, and involving all the players, ultimately finding the open shot. This is where the Irish found their strength.
Tory Jackson became the go-to guy and the floor leader, distributing the rock while placing more emphasis, and finding success, as an offensive threat. Hansbrough became a defensive stopper often receiving the tough defensive assignments while often finding daylight penetrating the lane. Nash has been a steady force inside and out, doing his work on the glass and at the line, as well as proving his versatility with some some action at point-forward. Abro is exceptional at finishing around the rim and has turned his early season success into a great distraction for opposing defenses. Scott has returned to provide much need athleticism, anchoring the middle of the Irish defense while cranking out double-doubles.
It's hard to believe these five are better without Harangody, but I actually believe it. Harangody is a great player, one of the best in Notre Dame and Big East history. However, it is very easy at the college level to score 20 a game attempting almost 30 shots a game. Harangody lost his team mentality, in my opinion taking shots because he "deserved" it, not because he was open. And on defense, he has never been a stellar player. He gets rebounds, but refuses to box anyone out to do so (most of his rebounds are off his own shots or defensive free throws).
All things considered, the patience and ball movement on offense often lead to a more open and efficient shot. On defense, the Irish can now buckle down and get a stop when they need to. All these things will be necessary for the Irish to find continued success - this season and beyond - under the leadership of Mike Brey (for better or for worse).
- DH
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