2013-2014
Posted on: July 27, 2016 at 17:26:38 CT
corbyandkellen MU
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Here is the roster for 2013-2014 from Wikipedia:
Wes Clark
Tony Criswell
Johnathan Williams III
Corey Haith
Jordan Clarkson
Deuce Bello
Shane Rector
Torren Jones
Zach Price
Danny Feldmann
Jabari Brown
Earnest Ross
Ryan Rosburg
Keanau Post
Ignoring the fact that those 23 wins are now vacated, here is a question for you. Other than the scoring ability of Clarkson and Brown, what was enjoyable about that team? Who led that team when times were tough? I suggest that while Brown or Clarkson would take key shots going down the stretch of close games, there was no Missouri identity on that team.
I am not just talking geography. That was a team with two NBA-caliber players that went .500 in SEC conference play. Do I prefer 9-9 to 3-15? Of course I do.
Part of what I am trying to articulate is that for the first time since Denmon's group, I think we have players who can make a connection to fans in a way in which Haith's last teams never did.
They do this by embracing the opportunity to play for the University of Missouri. This group does not feel like I am rooting for basketball mercenaries. If I'm the only person who feels this way, then so be it.
It helps to attend games and see players interact. I don't value guys who get along and carry themselves positively more than winning, but I think for a lot of fans of the University of Missouri, it does make a difference in their passion for the team.
Go Tigers! M-I-Z!