Tom Izzo's 'Same Old Guy' Remark Falls Short for Kansas Basketball’s Dickinson
Dickinson's performance against Michigan State proves Izzo wrong
Izzo's comments motivated Dickinson to play well against Michigan State
In the wake of Kansas' 87-74 victory over Michigan State on Tuesday night, Tom Izzo made a comment about Kansas forward Jalen Wilson that did not sit well with Wilson's teammate, David McCormack. Izzo said that Wilson was "the same old guy" that he had seen before, and McCormack took offense to the comment.
McCormack said that Izzo's comment was "disrespectful" and that it motivated him to play well against Michigan State. McCormack finished the game with 15 points and 10 rebounds, while Wilson had 17 points and 9 rebounds.
Izzo's comment was likely made in reference to Wilson's performance in last year's NCAA Tournament, when he struggled against Michigan State in the Elite Eight. However, Wilson has shown significant improvement this season, and he is now one of the best players in the country.
McCormack's comments show that Izzo's words had a negative impact on at least one Kansas player. It is important for coaches to be respectful of their opponents, even when they are trying to motivate their own players.
Izzo's comment was disrespectful and inaccurate
Izzo's comment was disrespectful because it dismissed Wilson's improvement this season. Wilson has worked hard to become a better player, and he deserves to be recognized for his accomplishments.
Izzo's comment was also inaccurate. Wilson is not the same player that he was last year. He is now a more confident and skilled player, and he is capable of leading Kansas to a national championship.
McCormack's performance was inspired by Izzo's comment
McCormack's performance against Michigan State was inspired by Izzo's comment. McCormack wanted to prove to Izzo that he was wrong, and he did just that. McCormack played with passion and intensity, and he was a major factor in Kansas' victory.
McCormack's performance shows that Izzo's words can have a motivating effect on his opponents. It is important for coaches to be aware of the impact that their words can have, and they should choose their words carefully.