The Misguided Motivation of Memphis
Coach Penny Hardaway’s latest antics have left many scratching their heads. After a promising start to the season, Memphis suffered a crushing defeat at home to Arkansas State, a sub-100 team. Instead of acknowledging the team’s shortcomings, Hardaway has resorted to creating a “Memphis vs the world” narrative, claiming the AP top-25 poll is against them.
A Reality Check
Let’s set the record straight – Memphis didn’t lose to a powerhouse team. Arkansas State handed them a convincing defeat, and it’s essential to recognize the difference. Moreover, the AP poll doesn’t hold the significance Hardaway makes it out to be. Recent history shows that teams that lose, regardless of their opponent, drop in the rankings. Cincinnati, Wisconsin, and Kansas are all examples of teams that have suffered similar fates.
Quality Wins and Opportunities Ahead
Despite this setback, Memphis still has a decent résumé, with notable wins over Missouri, UConn, and Michigan State. They have a chance to bolster their non-conference schedule with upcoming games against Mississippi State, Clemson, and Virginia. If they can secure two wins, they’ll be in a strong position for an at-large bid, provided they don’t stumble in AAC play.
Motivation Misfire
Hardaway’s attempt to rally his team with a perceived sense of injustice is misdirected. This type of motivation is better suited for March, when teams are fighting for their tournament lives. Instead, Hardaway should focus on addressing the team’s weaknesses and ensuring they don’t suffer another embarrassing loss. After all, a simple win against Arkansas State would have prevented this entire ordeal.
A Coach’s Dilemma
Hardaway needs to strike a balance between motivating his team and acknowledging their mistakes. By doing so, he can help Memphis reach their full potential and make a meaningful impact in the NCAA tournament. Until then, it’s essential to separate fact from fiction and focus on the task at hand – winning games.
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