Let Them Play

One thing that is hard to dispute is that Charles Mann was not playing well as Vermont made their run last night:

Vermont (22-11) trailed by nine at halftime but vaulted into the lead with a 21-2 run in the second half. Mann was struggling immensely, committing many of the turnovers himself.

But when Georgia’s deficit reached nine, it was Mann who spurred the comeback, then carried it through.

“During halftime my teammates told me to keep my head up, and just play the way I play,” Mann said.

What happened next was uncharacteristic of Mark Fox.  He left him in the game, and Mann rewarded him by playing spectacularly down the stretch and carrying Georgia into the second round.

I have complained here in the past that Fox is way too quick with the hook, especially with his best players.  Finally, last night, Fox coached as if the game was win-or-go-home.  Despite all the sloppiness, he knew Mann and Gaines were his best chance to win, so he let them play.

Did it represent a shift?  I doubt it.  But it was nice to see.

h/t Seth Emerson

Read more here: http://www.ledger-enquirer.com/2014/03/19/3012649/georgia-slips-past-vermont.html#storylink=cp