Just because Booker hasn't progressed to be a solid starter, doesn't mean the guy should be ripped by fans who have never sniffed the floor. Even Duke & UNC recruit McDonald's AA that don't pan out.
Did McGee have a bad game yesterday? I think not, but Hoiberg mentioned in the post game that the guys on the floor were playing so well, he couldn't justify getting McGee back in the game. I'm sure the same logic holds true for getting Booker 4-5 minutes in the 2nd half.
I agree with other posters that Booker is a key guy if ISU is going to be a top 3-4 team in the Big 12 this year- he is a better defender than Gibson or Niang, plays above the rim and gives us a shot blocker. He just shouldn't try to block every shot with such vigor.
Booker is naturally a reserved guy and he is frustrated. He's a team guy and has tweeted several times that coming to Ames was the best decision of his life. He was pretty good in his role last year but he's had to take a backseat to Niang. He needs to find his role on THIS team and that probably isn't going to be scoring many points. He loves to emphatically block shots and he is so big and strong, it is hard for him to not foul. Today was a good start for him.
I apologize for rambling.
Don't apologize. This is spot on.
Originally Posted by isucy86
Just because Booker hasn't progressed to be a solid starter, doesn't mean the guy should be ripped by fans who have never sniffed the floor. Even Duke & UNC recruit McDonald's AA that don't pan out.
Did McGee have a bad game yesterday? I think not, but Hoiberg mentioned in the post game that the guys on the floor were playing so well, he couldn't justify getting McGee back in the game. I'm sure the same logic holds true for getting Booker 4-5 minutes in the 2nd half.
I agree with other posters that Booker is a key guy if ISU is going to be a top 3-4 team in the Big 12 this year- he is a better defender than Gibson or Niang, plays above the rim and gives us a shot blocker. He just shouldn't try to block every shot with such vigor.
I don't understand why people like to rip on him either. Clearly he wasn't a starter so a change was made. Now he's working to learn new role. Leave the kid alone.
Even after a solid win - "fans" must find something or someone to bag on.
I personally have not bought into this team yet the last 2 games are making me reconsider. Never felt the need to bag on guys who were working hard and didn't have family/friends here singing their praises down our throats.
Looking forward to hopefully pounding WVU Wednesday night.
There is good and bad to this thread. I understand fans that see him frustrated and having a "bad attittude", which he has made clear he is not happy or excited... On the other hand folks, this kid has lived and breathed basketball for many years, so you can imagine his disappointment with recent playing time... hopefully he can move forward soon, I hate to see him that upset...
Booker played fine in the last game. Nobody should be ragging on him. We also do not have that much inside presence (bodies), so he has a role to play.
Looking forward to CFH magic for the next bball season, Georges style.
I like Booker and am glad we have him. He is our best post defender and as others have said he needs to find his role, whatever that role is. If he can get the fouls in check I think he could have some monster games for us.
I have heard this to but didn't think much of it. Have heard there is clear signs academically that the only reason he is continuing education is to play basketball and it is showing in the grades. CFH based on rumors has given him a couple days to decide take it seriously or move on.
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