Dear Editor:
The article in Wednesday's paper concerning Kelly Wise was one that needed to be written. His penchant for folly in big games has haunted our team since his arrival.
Near the end of the regular season, with our season literally on the bubble, Kelly takes some time to rest a mild injury, this sends us on a three-game losing streak.
Did this concern our star big man? Was this losing streak directly linked to his injury? In our final game against Cincinatti, he was cleared by the team doctor to play. WHAT in the world could keep someone off the court in a game of that magnitude? Conference championship on the line, a trip to the big dance, a win at Cincy on senior night, not to mention their No. 4 national ranking at the time.
I’ve always been under the sports mantra that great players make big plays in big games. So I figure, Kelly, being one of our most productive all-time players is going to be fired up and ready to go. But noooo, after logging a few ineffective minutes, he sits the rest of the game out.
And naturally, when Kelly sits, the tigers sleep. So on the the conference tourney. Should I play in the conference toury and risk further injury, and decreased draft value? Noooo, I’ll just sit for the Houston game as well. Suprise, the Tigers lose again and trash their chance for their first NCAA tournament bid in what, six years.
So, Kelly and whoever else feels satisfied by the cowardly acts of one of our schools representatives, have fun in the NIT. And for those of us who feel betrayed and dissappointed by the lack of heart and desire shown by this individual, I would like to say on behalf of all of us: For all your personal accolades and accomplishments we congratulate you. And for all your contributions to our school, we say in parting, thanks, thanks for nothing.
Nick Ayers
Senior
Psychology
