Just some thoughts on the BB program

Mar 29, 2014, 10:50 AM

...from a man who's finally seen the light.

For the past 5 years (way before I was a T-netter), I've consistently berated, criticized, bad-mouthed, and hated on the BB program. Until about a month ago when I spoke to some close to the players, families, and even Brownell and his family, and realized how hard this team has worked to get to where they are, and how hard Brownell himself has worked to put this team in the position it's now in NYC at an NIT Final Four. For years, I was that guy who always had to post that cruel, unnecessary troll comment about how our program was never gonna get any better, to just accept that we would always be just a powerhouse football school, and nothing more.

Well, I've certainly become a believer this past month. I now see how hungry the young players on this BB team are. I've been delighted to see the slow but sure development of our big guys (Nnoko and Djambo), and I've been pleased to recognize just how much better the team keeps getting even on a weekly basis now. Players who were inconsistent can be counted on now, the team is finding ways to create offense despite now being that great of an offensive team, but most of all: these kids trust each other now. You can really grasp a sense of together-ness. Each man is playing his heart out for the guy next to him. They believe in each other. And that's the fuel that ignites programs that win: Belief and togetherness. Sure, the talent will come. But a solid foundational is built on something other than ability.

I'm beginning to think that an NIT Final Four just could be the start of something awesome for this program. And an NIT championship win would be a HUGE step forward in the direction of this program. For everything: recruiting, stability, confidence, etc. Take it from a guy who's eyes have been opened and can now see: The Clemson Tiger BB program, regardless of the outcome this week, is on the way up. Learn a lesson from me: Don't count them out before they ever have a chance to show you what they can do. Give them a chance. And give it some time. Show them you believe in them.

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Just some thoughts on the BB program

I saw the light early when most people were missing Pernell***

Nnoko has improved Exponentially this season !

Brownell paid a huge price in the transition.

I used to live off Deacon Ridge...ha ha..warm words...

Re: I used to live off Deacon Ridge...ha ha..warm words...

I'm anxious to see Djambo next year after he gets a bit

Re: Just some thoughts on the BB program

Familiarity doesn't always breed contempt.

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