For much of this season, in the wake of Wisconsin basketball’s numerous losses, a familiar refrain has been echoed. Now, after failing to make the NCAA Tournament a second time during his tenure, more and more people are shouting “Fire Greg Gard!” »
I admit that I am a âNOOBâ when it comes to following Wisconsin sports. I grew up in Pennsylvania, born into a Penn State family. My knowledge of historic Wisconsin sports begins in the early 90s, although I knew Al Toon was a Badger before he became a great receiver for the New York Jets.
My basketball knowledge in Wisconsin was even sparser. Wisconsin was a team I saw regularly beaten at Penn State. I was an admirer of Dick Bennett and even more of Bo Ryan. I watched in horror and awe as these two teams played a Big Ten tournament game that single-handedly set back decades of modern basketball (a 36-33 Penn State win).
But don’t be fooled. I have a deepening, albeit relatively new, love for this program. I chose to write about Wisconsin sports because I have always admired all of the programs. While covering the school’s various sports programs, I was very impressed with the level of knowledge and passion of the fans. There may be disagreements on different topics, but the level of discord between opposing parties remains mostly respectful.
The topic of Wisconsin head basketball coach Greg Gard and his future at the school is one of those hotly debated topics. Many fans, rightfully so, are disgusted with a season that started so promising and ended with the Badgers losing 27 points in a conference tournament game that was considered a must-win by many for their hopes of getting into the NCAA. tournament.
I admit to being a very loyal defender of Gard this season. I think two of the last three (now four) regular seasons as Big Ten co-champions, as well as Big Ten Coach of the Year, are nothing to sneeze at. Teams and programs sometimes go through periods where they do not meet expectations.
I try to examine all sides of any argument. I recently read an article about why Coach Gard should be fired and who should replace him, which made me think about this debate from different angles.
(cue the Law and Order music)
Let the trial against Wisconsin basketball coach Greg Gard begin. Each side will be discussed without any rebuttal from the opposition. The Honorable Joey Lovell presiding (this is a joke, although I am honorable)
