Last weekend, I watched most of the NCAA Div I basketball tournament games on the normal, over-the-air (VHF) broadcast. It was unusual for me, as I haven’t paid much attention to the tournament over the years. But the eruption of George Mason, last year, reawakened my interest.
In fact, I borrowed a new library book on basic basketball techniques and tactics. This is a book aimed at kids (teens) developing their skills. It’s been useful to compare terms and tactics with the televised game play. Quite often, I’ve tried to watch the play away from the ball, and see what develops.
Unfortunately, the commentary and video replays aren’t that instructive. The broadcasts tend to emphasize the emotional aspects of the game, and not the tactical, strategic, and intellectual aspects. And even with a focus on emotions and action (individual, team, fans, etc.), there’s no discussion on how a coach and team can ensure that their motivation doesn’t lag. Or how to overcome a cold streak of shooting.
The commentary is the same o - same o (sp?). Perhaps I shouldn’t care, since I don’t want to get too addicted. There are too many things I need to get done, and never enough time to do ‘em.
I had plenty of opportunity to become addicted in the past. I went to a school that won many championships, but I only went to 1 game during my four years, there. I remember that it was a close one that went down to the wire. Interestingly enough, the visiting team happened to be Maryland. Fortunately, they missed a shot at the buzzer.
Once again, my alma mater is in the Sweet Sixteen, but I don’t know if they’ll make it to the Final Four.
It seems that while the team has been preparing for the next game, the fans have been keeping themselves focused, too:
http://www.maxishere.com/images/host/crowdsurf.jpg
Posted by: raacluse at March 22, 2007 07:23 PM