Where were the screaming thousands who packed the Joyce for College Gameday and the UConn game?
For the Rutgers game, the student section was half empty with open bleachers all around the arena. Thankfully, Coach Mike Brey decided to show up and cheer on the Irish. The usually mild-mannered Brey was waving and screaming at the student section to come to life and lift the team's comeback efforts. In his best coaching move since switching to man-to-man defense against Louisville, Brey willed the Irish and the crowd back into the game.
For a program that only weeks ago boasted the longest home court winning streak in the nation, this was embarrassing. I understand Rutgers isn't a marquee team, but this is conference play, and our team is fighting for its NCAA-tournament life. Yesterday's attendance and spirit was a shame. What's even a bigger shame is that the Joyce will be packed and loud on Monday for Villanova.
Being a fan is about more than showing up when ESPN comes to town. Coach Brey should never have to beg for our support. It should be given wholeheartedly all season long. Let's make sure this embarrassment never happens again.
Go Irish. Beat UConn.
David VanEgmond
junior
Stanford Hall
Feb. 25
