TheWaveReport.com - 5 Questions: Tulane vs. Texas

November 17, 2008

Scott Kushner
TheWaveReport.com Senior Editor

Five Questions: Tulane vs. No. 8 Texas - Basketball

1)What is the measure for success in this game?

Normally, wins are successes and losses are failures, but Tuesday night's matchup with No. 8 Texas (7 p.m. at the Frank Erwin Center in Austin, TV: Fox Sports Net) has all the makings of that nasty moral victory scenario. But that would mean Tulane would have to keep it close. If the Wave are able to keep the game at single digits for about 30 minutes, it would be a positive experience for a young, evolving team. Staying competitive and learning to play in that kind of environment would provide TU coach Dave Dickerson some much needed foundation to work from.

2)How do the Wave avoid a blowout?

Don't ask the Longhorns first opponent, Stetson.

Texas mauled the Hatters 68-38 on Friday night in Austin, thanks to defensive shutdown which allowed Stetson to shoot just 26 percent (16-of-50) including four three pointers. In order for Tulane to not meet the same fate, they must capitalize on missed shots and steals to increase fast break opportunities. The Wave is simply not good enough to count on jumpers falling and not big enough to control the paint. So instead of working in a half court, the best way to attack the Horns will be by forcing the action and aggressively looking for easy transition baskets. That means running off any missed shot, and jumping the passing lanes for cheap steals.

3)What needs to be done on the defensive end?

No second chances. If the Longhorns are able to put up two or three shots per possession like McNeese State did, expect the final margin to end up somewhere in the 30s. The glaring issue is Tulane's biggest player, Robinson Louisme (6-foot-7), is the smaller than three of Texas' starters: Connor Atchley, Clint Chapman and Damion James (a preseason all Big 12 selection). This means both Louisme and Asim McQueen will have to be furiously physical and maintain position underneath the hoop.

That wasn't the case against the Cowboys who pulled down 17 offensive boards Friday night in Tulane's 68-62 victory. If Texas' shots fall, then it will be a rough night regardless, but the Wave can't allow second chance point and give the game away.

4)Where is Tulane's best chance to gain an advantage?

In the backcourt. If Kevin Sims and Kris Richard are able to produce the way they are capable of, then the Wave could make up ground. Both poured in 17 points on Friday, and combined for 13 rebounds. Sims can control a game from the point, and Richard has the potential to be a dynamic scorer both shooting and slashing to the basket. Texas' backcourt is anchored by A.J. Abrams (preseason all Big 12 selection) and Justin Mason, but the Longhorns are still adjusting to life without all-American point guard - and New Orleans product - D.J. Augustine, so maybe Sims can take advantage.

5)Is this a no lose situation?

Unequivocally, yes. If the Wave goes into Austin and lose by 40, it will be disheartening but it won't change the course of the program. This game will show just how far Tulane has to go to reach a level they are looking for. It serves a barometer for the upcoming season, and of course, there's always the opportunity be a giant slayer.

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