General Aces musing

[AcePurple]

This probably won't be of much interest to non-UE fans.....

Here's the way I feel right now: If we get embarrassed tonight, I will still feel that we need a new coach. IF we put in a good performance tonight, or somehow even win, then I can grudgingly accept Merfeld for next year. But it will be a "probation" year: w/ the positive end to this year, and the whole team back next year, we should be WAY better. If we're not, then I think he's gotta go.

I'm very excited about our current 3 game win streak, but it's not enough to just forget the ineptitude of the last 4 years. Of course, if we look good tonight, and then contend next year, I'll suddenly be Merfeld's best pal.... I'm not ashamed to be a band waggoner when it comes to the coach!

[Ace Dad]

Too much emphasis on winning causes fans to use faulty logic.

The Aces starting five all return next year. You will have 3 seniors and two seasoned Sophs. Holsinger is a keeper. Shy has shown that he is getting better and better. It is apparent that the players must respect Coach Merfeld and the program based on the effort toward the end of the season. They did not throw in the towel. It is hard to play when you are 3-15 and expected to lose. But, they keep on playing. Something tells me the coach has something to do with this.

So, if the Aces win 60-59 this evening over the Salukis, the fair-weather Aces fans say: "well, lets keep ole Merfeld around another year." If the Aces lose 59-60 in a hard-fought contest the fans say: "get rid of the bum." Basketball is a game of nuance. A team that is playing well may lose by one point or one possession.

We will play the Salukis with tired legs and a thin bench. Do not let the outcome of this game erase the last two weeks. There is hope for next year with all the starters returning.

[getreal4]

If all of those underclassman are back, eligible and playing, Aces will be competitive in the Valley next year. Hopefully Merfeld has recruited the right kind of kids. I wish we had those young talented Ace bballers at Drake.

[DUShock]

Merfeld has had a bad run of luck with player defections, etc. I've always held him in respect since his days at Hampton, I remember (I believe it was under Smithson) when the Shocks blew a big big lead and Hampton beat us in the Old Roundhouse. It was his adjustments and leadership that helped to keep the teams composure, imho.

I wish Merfeld and all of the Ace's all the best but have to cheer for the Dawg's simply because of the microscope the Valley is under this season. Of course I am not saying anything that hasn't already been said but the MVC needs four to five schools in and at least two preferably three will need to advance just to meet the hype let alone generate a new fervor from the pundit's, those damn pundit's!

I am just thankful my alma mater has turned things around.

Go Valley!!

Go Shocks!!!!

[scottpt99UE]

I think no matter what happens tonight, we need Merfeld back. To have six or so guys try to learn an entire new program for next year will be tough and the results will not be anywhere close to what we expected, even with Merfeld. Keep him and keep the system and we finish #5 next year in the MVC, get rid of Big Bill maybe a 4th, new coach new system- playing on Thursday again with players who should be better next year. Just my thoughts.

[Hail Red & White]

I thought UE acquitted themselves well against SIU. They just couldn't get over that hump of getting closer than 8 points in the second half. For a young team with only 9 wins, each possession has to be played well if you're going to have a chance to win. The consistency on offense and defense was lacking, coupled with the massive offensive rebounding advantage SIU had in Friday's game. Still, there were plenty of bright spots for the Aces, If they stay in shape, avoid injuries, and develop that consistency on both ends of the floor, I think they could finish in the 4-6 slots next year. Getting a new coach now could really damage the team's psyche. For a bummer season that Evansville had, they did split the regular season with Southern Illinois and swept their rivals, Indiana State. On top of that, they helped the Valley's non-conference RPI with a win over Purdue. Sure, the Boilers sorta suck this year, but they are in the Big 10 (last time I checked)! Keep on keepin' on guys.

[indymoon]

I agree with AceDad (again). Aces were disappointing but results probably reflect level of talent (aces and conference), injuries and inexperience of team. Lost of players last year still hurts.

I understand Aces desire to get the ball into Webster and Strick but Anslinger can be a deadly shooter and the O did little to exploit that.