HOOSIER RECAP

A hell of a season. But I have to say something right here from the start. FREE THROWS. FREE THROWS. FREE THROWS. And just for good measure I'll add FREE THROWS.

It really is mind boggling that this team shot the ball horribly, had an invisible Rod Wilmont, and missed free throw after free throw (not to mention 0 3-pointers) and they were still in the game with one of the best in the nation.

I have to put my hat out to several people though.

KELVIN SAMPSON- He had a solid first season when the Hoosiers were really desperate for one. He instilled the right lessons into this young team and had them improving every step of the way. Kelvin is going to be a great coach for Indiana for many years to come, and I am excited to see it.

RICK GREENSPAN- After a dissapointing season a year ago there was no question that Mike Davis had to go. But who would follow him up? Would it be Alford? Or Matta? Or Few? No it was Kelvin Sampson, a choice that came out of nowhere. But it was the correct choice for the program and really showed how good Greenspan is at his job. He didn't listen to the people around him, he just picked the guy he thought would be the best for the program. Congratulations Rick, things worked out very well.

D.J. WHITE- One heck of a game from a heck of a player. White played his butt off from the very start, and played with energy all night long. He got his hands on every rebound and blocked so many shots that it was unbelieveable. I hope this guy comes back next year because he could make a part of the dynamic duo inside.

LANCE STEMLER- For a guy that struggled all year long, this was a break out game. He didn't have his shot falling early, but worked his butt off on the defensive end and forced a lot of difficult shots. Then he hit several 3-pointers at the end that I'm sure will help his confidence for next year. Great game son, I look forward to seeing you in the future.

REST OF THE HOOSIERS- We have to take a look at that defensive effort. After the Gonzaga game on Thursday night I said that Indiana would have no chance unless they really buckled down on the defensive end. They did that. That was one of the best efforts I have ever seen in college basketball. If they can play that way next year and find more weapons on the offensive end then we could have an Elite Eight or Final Four caliber team.