Booing & confidence

[Mike Dynon <mdynon@ix.netcom.com>]

"The problem, and perhaps I am oversimplifying the case, seems to be a
loss of confidence on the part of Walker and Pierce and a coach who is
impatient in trying to deal with this loss of confidence. Players do get
into a blue funk for no apparent reason; they'll get out of it given
time. But while they are down, encourage them to get up, don't yell."

That comment by Venkat is the most coherent statement posted today. It's
not oversimplifying--it's exactly on target. Kudos to Venkat, Theresa,
Josh and Gene, who have said let's stick by the team and not turn on
them.  Walker and Pitino both acknowledged that the team deserves to be
booed, but some of those patrons at last night's game seemed *eager* to
boo. It started with Walker's first miss--apparently a new zero
tolerance policy by those who blame him for everything.

IMHO, Toine has heeded the criticisms of the personality police, but to
his own detriment.  He has cut back on arguing with the refs, he isn't
getting technicals (only one so far that wasn't a "double T"), and he's
not as boisterous.  He hasn't wiggled (even when he could have) in a
couple of weeks. The bad part, though, is that his "fire" seems gone,
too. The passion that fuels him has disappeared. Perhaps as a result,
for the first time in his career, he is really struggling with his
game--but instead of picking him up, the fans are putting him down more
than ever. In the 4th quarter, he looked like the most confused,
demoralized player I've ever seen. Unfortunately, it might end up that a
trade--the proverbial "change of scenery"--will be the best thing for
him.
--
Mike Dynon
North Kingstown, RI