Here’s one more truism: Respect every opponent, but fear none. The Wolverines did not heed this part of the John Wooden Pyramid for Success and were a heave away from suffering the consequences. The Wolverine players lacked execution and effort, which caused the turnovers. Although they were on their season average of 12, their margin for the season was +0.9 while they were -2 against the Nittanys. Shooting 3s was down 6% below the 36% season average, and although some open “catch-and-shoot" ones didn’t go down, there were too many of the contested “off the bounce” category. Both of these are a lack of execution.
Second Chances are gifts that keep giving
In the “Defend the Block” podcast’s post-PSU recap, coach Dusty May said, “The loose ball battles ultimately killed us. And at the end of the game, they’re able to score those late baskets typically on the second shot.”
Coach May’s point is illustrated by the stats. The Nittany Lions shot an ugly 35%, which is the opponent season average. But they had more attempted shots than the Wolverines due to a 15-7 edge in offensive rebounds. Typically, second chance points are not a big concern because of the Wolverines’ high-event game and typical high shot volume. But when you are -9 in overall shot attempts, you better be grabbing the defensive rebounds.
It’s been pointed out that because of the Wolverine defensive principles of constant switching and challenging shots, it’s hard to box out, and that the only solution is to try harder. The latter comes from effort and “want to.” When you don’t respect your opponent, “want to” doesn’t happen.
Move your feet with your hands high
So, when refs become whistle-happy, it’s often said that there’s nothing you can do about it. But players can do two things: move your feet and show your hands. The Wolverines did neither. In previous games, they’ve done this extremely well, and have been successful in playing excellent defense without being called for fouls.
The best defenders have the best footwork. They don’t overextend by keeping their feet “under them”, that is shoulder-width apart with their hips back. They use short, quick shuffle steps, and avoid crossing their feet except when recovering from a mistake. Excellent defenders also use anticipation to beat the opponent to the spot where the opponent wants to be. The ballhandler wants to get to their favorite spot, get there first. The post player wants to bury you deep in transition, get there first. Your man is setting up for a pick, get there first.
High hands don’t necessarily mean keeping them above your head but means keeping them where the refs can see you’re not reaching. Even if you don’t touch your man, when the ball handler makes a move and you drop your hands, chances are you’ll make contact with a body part, and the refs may whistle you. Even if your hands start vertically and you bring them down when the shooter shoots, the refs may whistle you.
The problem, of course, is that if refs want to whistle, they’ll do it. But when on defense, if you play clean and smart (and respect your opponent), you’ll give them less reason to want to.