Quote:
Originally Posted by KcMizzou
Yeah, it's early... but clearly a lot of us were wrong about Haith. I wasn't vocal about it, but I didn't like the hire. (took the "wait and see" approach)
So far, he's done a fantastic job.
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Honestly, the hire was such a tough read. It looks like the "angel's advocate" approach was correct thus far-- he may truly have been hamstrung by coaching at a school with such lackluster support for its team, in the most difficult conference in the country. The jury may still be out, but it's definitely swaying heavily in the positive direction.
About this game... I can't think of one other PG in the nation who could have such a horrendous FG line, while still being one of the best three players on the court (along with Bowers and Paul). Jankovic was a tough, weird matchup for Illinois, and I don't think Haith believed that his offensive game was worth the matchup problems he'd face against Illinois on D. NWC is still too raw, but you definitely see glimpses of his potential despite his missteps.
The biggest takeaway is, Frank Haith is the anti-QuinAnderson. He has deliberate gameplans designed to, y'know, actually capitalize on the weaknesses of the opponents. It's so weird to have a coach that can recognize the strengths and limitations of both teams, and utilize those to our advantage. Early Quin showed signs of that, while Stubborn Mike Anderson always believed that 40 Minutes Of Hell was the sacrosanct word of our Lord and was not to be interfered with. This is a pleasant surprise, and one that bodes VERY well for Mizzou in the future.