As a New Yorker I don’t get to see Tech play live much and usually take advantage of their trips to MSG since watching them win the Pre-season NIT in 2003, beating UConn in the quarterfinals only to lose to them in the NCAA championship game. So today was a treat. When they beat B Knight’s Texas Tech in 2003 I got to celebrate on the floor level with Ishmael Muhammad’s Dad. Today I had the pleasure of sitting next to Deebo’s mom. Tech didn’t steal this one. They almost gave it away. Young players. Students who have to take care of academics. Nobody knows what other day to day personal or family issues might affect them and their play. A losing team last year acquiring a new coach with recruiting & portal cupboards almost bare. And we fan experts get to analyze and critique every play, gesture & personality. I was amazed at the play of Gapare, obviously more talented than anyone ever thought just by making the starting opening day lineup. A young team with problems passing & inbounding should not surprise anyone and I seriously doubt this coaching staff has ignored those issues. Practices are never enough. Same opponents every day in same empty gym. They need games and away games and neutral site games to make and learn from mistakes. I say these student athletes did Georgia Tech proud today. Only good things will come. Maybe not a quick as every fan & alumni want, but I have been impressed by much more than has disappointed me. To hell with staying old. I’ll take youth and happily watch them mature and get better.
