Saturday, February 28, 2004

The Jackets win with a strong performance over Clemson

Well, I went to the game today and enjoyed a solid victory. Some nice scoring, outside shooting and even a little 20 minute power outage for drama. The power on that side of campus cut off after about 4 minutes into the game. At the time we were up 9-0 to start the game. The power problem couldn't have come at a worse time. I turned to my wife and said that when these things happen the momentum usually goes the other way. Sure enough, once power was restored, the Jackets went 0-10 shooting. Clemson got it back to 9-8, then we went on another run. After that Clemson never got closer than about 8 points.

Overall a good game. BJ had another typical Jeckyl and Hide performance from one half to the other. Marvin Lewis gets props for an outstanding road performance. I think BJ / Marvin were a combined 6-10 in the 2nd half from 3pt range - hard to beat that. Jack had a very nice game, ending with 11 points, 9 assists, 8 boards, 7-7 from the line, 2 steals and only 2 to's.

In the end, it once again came down to hitting shots. Both Clemson and GT were cold in the 1st half. As good as our defense was, Clemson just flat out missed a lot of open shots. In the 2nd half, both teams shot much better. Every time Clemson tried to get a rally going, we would hit a shot a squash it. And GT actually hit 24-28 free throws - WOW. Even McHenry went 4-5 from the line.

I was also fairly impressed with the fan support. My guess is that there was over 500 Jacket fans - a good bit of yellow spread throughout LJC.

It is important to note that this victory pushes us to the 20-win mark. For those really frustrated with this team, remember that this is the 1st 20-win season in 8 years. That's a long time. No doubt Paul Hewitt is taking us in the right direction.

Nice win today on the road in a place we have had our troubles over the years. Now we get to visit the Crazies of Dook. Bring'em on I say!! Time for GT to take down the Dookies. Let's take this momentum and go!!!! GO JACKETS!!!!