Tue, 27 Dec 2011 17:14:52 -0000
My daughter and I went to the game at Benedictine with somewhat giddy anticipation on what could be two new pieces added to an exciting VCU program that I have been following since Jabo Wilkens. We both left with mixed feelings. Jordan Burgess was everything I hoped he would be. He has an all around game, understands and executes fundamentals, hits the big shots(with a nice stroke), is a team player, understands the importance of defense because he plays it, needs to get a little stronger which he obviously will, and will give us some more depth next year. He will be a special player for VCU. Mo Alie-Cox on the other hand was disappointing. I'm not sure where to begin. There was a huge difference between Jordan and Mo with regards to their maturity. I've read some threads on ramnation that I feel bordered on denial regarding his attitude, but that happens when you drink the kool aid(I do it as well). Mo's lack of defense, footwork, teammanship and overall hustle could be a huge problem when he plays for Shaka, but hopefully he does things differently when he becomes a Ram. He has an upside, but he seems to lack an understanding of the game and what it takes to win. He has a long way to go. I guess what bothered me the most watching his game was the constant chastisement of his teammates on the floor, the obvious "f" bombs he dropped throughout the game when something did not go his way(reading lips is easy), the ignoring of his coach during timeouts(again, very obvious), and just not being a team player. Maybe he wasn't getting the ball from his teammates for a reason. He wouldn't even put his hand in with the rest of the players after a timeout, and his teammates hardly spoke to him whether on the floor or in a timeout. I will not write this off to having a bad day or not being at 100%. Baloney. I hope he decides to work hard when he gets here, and I have enormous respect for Shaka and what he represents and expects his players to represent. Take a look Mo. VCU is a special place, and you have a great opportunity. Go Rams!
