in 2019-2020 before getting injured he was stronger, springier (monster jams in traffic) and just a straight up baller in clutch moments. Since then heโs just been bad. That tough player with an edge has evaporated. No idea what happened
Reminds me of many things in life chapters. Being completely introspective and honest here.
There were a few things I was involved in as a young man and then early in my career...I came in hungry and with a huge edge and endless energy. Also goals ahead and idealism. Once the chapter started to change and goals had been achieved, I began eyeing the next chapter and the zest was gone from the previous one. Sure, I could go through the motions but my heart wasn't in it the same way.
Geo came here to change a program and to get to the tourney. He came to prove he was a top tier D1 ball player in a major conference. He did all of that, plus won a game too. Right after the game he was dissappinted bc that team could have gone even farther and he knew it, and he had some bad plays down the stretch. That's like everything too though...you always leave some unfinished business on the table. At first you contemplate trying to finish it, or dwell on what will be left undone, but over time you accept it and still look forward to turning the page. I'm sure Geo had plenty of passion and good intentions back when he decided to come back.
But he's grown up now quite literally...basketball is realistically probably not his future. His goals have been accomplished. He will forever be an icon in Rutgers lore. He also got hurt. He's not as enamored with it all. This team isn't as good as the previous 2 and he knows it like the rest of us. I'm sure he doesn't intend to be going out like this, but that prey drive for a young man is hard to keep up as life transitions. Even moreso when the best of a given chapter is behind you, and you've given your all already. Hard to play lights out knowing the team around you isn't going to go as far as the previous one... I feel for the young man but I know he has a bright future.
We are sports fans. I had a good time venting tonight with you guys and being angry and a little mean to get it out of my system. I am moving on for a little bit on RU basketball this season, as this team does not inspire much fan passion or hope. At the end of the day this is a dissapointing end to a fun and exciting run. Hopefully there are better days ahead...but I'm not convinced those days will involve these older players or this coach.
As one of fhe best Jersians of all time once said: "That's Life"