Blog with Bryan Smithson

Its been tough trying to get to the computer to update the blog but I have finally found time here while I watch the NBA All Star game.  The title of this entry couldn't be more perfect when I take a look back at the last week and a half.  The tough times started when we traveled to Liberty and I carried with me a nagging planter fascia.  A couple minutes into the first half I rolled my ankle and had to come out of the game.  I went back in but it was just too much pressure and I pretty much hobbled around and was very ineffective.  Kenny didn't play that game so with both of us out we have had to count on teammates to pick up the slack in different places.  I missed the game we played at High Point and Kenny played the first 3 minutes and sat the rest.  We played them tough but just made too many mistakes down the stretch and were unable to escape with a win.  Since then I have been in the training room everyday all day trying to gather my strength back and get as close to 100% as possible. 

VMI came to Asheville on Saturday and the trainer, coaches, and I made a gametime decision to go ahead and play the game.  It took me entirely too long to get into the flow of the game and VMI played well. Our defense was easily penetrated and we were not helping each other as we have in the past.  Offensively we were stale and being very passive which is playing into the hands of VMI.  If you are aggressive you can get any shot that you want at any time ( I mean, they are the leading scorers in the nation, as well as last in points given up).  This loss was very disappointing, especially because it was in front of our home crowd, who might I add, was awesome.  Our fans have proven to be some of the best that I have ever been involved with. Thanks!

So this is where we are at- 18-7, 7-3.  3 game losing streak.  Nagging injuries.  Haters coming back around to tell our fans "I told you so".  With all this, I guess the question is what next????  First of all, it is not rocket science why we have won so many games.  We are a good team, we have a good bunch of guys, dedicated staff, and one of the best and most experienced backcourts in the league.  We have gotten a bit off track but we are well aware of it.  All the things that have gotten us these 3 losses in the last week are"fixable".  The only way to fix things is with practice and that is where we will start.  I am very excited to see how our team will respond in the next couple games because tough people and tough teams always rise to the occasion.!