More Thoughts From St. Josephs Game

OK, we've finished the recap, here's the analysis. Devo, way to be there tonight. His impact on this game cannot be understated. He jump started the offense after a lethargic first 5 minutes. He had the passion that we love him for, diving onto the scorers table after one loose ball. Hustling on defense to prevent a game tying layup in the final minute. And perhaps most importantly, being a leader for these young kids, telling Jonny Flynn during the slow start "Everything's going to be all right."

Flynn, what else can I say. Huge shot after missing everything else, only one turnover to go with his six assists. Coach Boeheim said the only other player who he remembers missing every shot and hitting a game winner was Gerry, in the Notre Dame game in 2003. A very solid game, including a spectacular no-look pass at about the 4 minute mark to...

Donte Green. He had a very good game as well, with a game high (equaled by Paul Harris) 18 points to go with 8 rebounds. He worked it a little inside more, which is what I like to see. He just looks so fluid with his movements and made a few great passes that led to scoring opportunities. Also, he had the huge jam and the foul on the dish from Flynn.

Paul Harris is getting a little forgotten in the talk about the freshman, but he's been a monster on the glass, collecting 14 rebounds last night, along with his 18 points and 6 assists. Great game from Harris, who also his a three in this game.

Even more forgotten is Arinze Onuaku, who set his career high in points for the second straight game with 17 points, but only 4 rebounds. However, he's looking tough inside and did a great job in the middle of the zone.

The backups, well, can't say much because they rarely saw the court. Jackson, Ongenaet, and Jardine were the only bench players who played, and they saw a combined 17 minutes. Greene and Devendorf played the whole game, while Flynn and Harris played the whole second half.

One final observation, that took place at the end of the game. Up 2 with .8 seconds left Paul Harris had two free throws. After missing the first, the debate was to miss or make the second. Len Elmore said miss, because that leaves you with a 3/4 court heave at the end. Coach Boeheim agreed, and yet Harris still made the shot. After Calathes had a chance to tie with a three in the corner, Boeheim wondered aloud (meaning he screamed at Harris) what Harris was thinking. Harris says he tried to miss, but it went in.

Try to miss them all then, Paul.