Jan. 24, 2012
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Joe Fisher’s Mailbag Submit Your Question Wondering about a player, a game or another topic involving the Commodores? The Voice of the Commodores Joe Fisher will answer a variety of questions from fans throughout the year on VUcommodores.com. |
Joe, Everyone knows the importance of Jenkins, Taylor and Ezeli, but don’t you think Brad Tinsley is really the glue that holds this team together? He is the unsung hero and just goes about his business under the radar. I’ve seen every game this year and the team is just not the same when he is on the bench. Don’t you think he at least deserves a 2nd team All-SEC? Thanks and keep up the good work.
– Jack Hunter, Dickson, Tenn.
I think it’s very clear that we are a better basketball team when Brad not only runs the offense, but looks to score. When Brad is aggressive offensively, in the right situations, we become a much more difficult team to defend. His toughness is unquestioned. We don’t need 30 a night from him … but when he scores in double figures, it usually means it’s a good night.
Regarding facilities, when do you think the Memorial Gym jumbotron will be replaced and are there any drawings of the indoor practice facility yet?
– Christopher, Birmingham, Ala.
There are no final drawings of the new facility yet although plans are in motion. It’s exciting to know that it’s going to happen in the next couple of years. As far as the jumbotron at Memorial Gym, my guess is in the next one to two years, you will see a new unit.
After college, Vanderbilt student-athletes generally have very successful careers financially, even if they never play sports professionally. Do Vanderbilt coaches use this fact in recruiting?
– Ken, Bethesda, Md.
I can tell you that the statistic that every senior that has played at Vanderbilt under Coach Stallings has graduated is very important to him, and to the program. And yes, the notion that you not only play basketball at the highest level, but you receive a quality education and a Vanderbilt degree is a huge selling point for young men and women that think not only of now, but of the long term.
I know you can’t comment on officiating, but what’s involved when Vanderbilt receives a warning like it did against Georgia? Can you not, then, say anything to the officials or are you just limited in how vociferous you can be?
– Jim Hitt, Goodlettsville, Tenn.
Jim, I think it’s actually a good idea. Instead of a coach getting T’d up right away, the official can send a message with a warning. We’ve all been around the game long enough to know that it’s not going to totally shut down the chatter. But it does at least put a bit of a leash on the coach, that he probably can’t go as far in his protesting as he might normally. As much as folks like to slam officials, I think the SEC has some of the top talent in the nation. For the most part, they know how to manage and handle a game, especially in the heat of the moment. There are always exceptions, but I believe most coaches in the league would tell you they have no major issues with the officiating in our league.
Substitution pattern: Why do I often see multiple substitutions within the first four minutes of a game?
– Jonathan Page, Memphis, Tenn.
I think the one that probably draws the most attention is Festus out early for Steve Tchiengang. Usually, if Fes gets a foul in the first couple of minutes, he will come out. It’s also no surprise to see Steve come in two or three minutes in, even if Fes hasn’t gotten a foul. It’s a strategy that has worked well, letting Festus get some time, then come to the bench and regroup before going back. Some wonder about taking Jeff Taylor out of a game … but he usually draws a very tough defensive assignment as well as being an offensive leader. It’s important to get him good minutes of rest where we can. That’s where you see Coach Stallings get him, or Jenkins, or Lance out of a game a minute or so prior to a media timeout … just to buy them an extra couple minutes of rest that aren’t on the clock.
I have a broadcast question for you. For home games I know that it is absolutely the rule to have zero time delay for the radio broadcast since we (I do every game) listen to you and Tim/John while in the gym/stadium. So here is my question, for away games, especially for games on TV, why not have the delay extended past the delay TV has so we can use our Tivo or DVR to delay the TV (which would finally be ahead of your broadcast) and enjoy your coverage instead of the vanilla TV guys? Nothing like hearing a “GOOOOD” from you while watching at home. Just a curious fan, and thanks for the coverage.
– Jamie Bunch, Nashville, Tenn.
Jamie, it’s an interesting question, and one we’ve discussed. I appreciate the fact that you understand that I do not want any delay on a home broadcast, as you couldn’t listen in the stands at Memorial. A delay on the road might be something we could consider. I’d love to do everything I can for you to listen to us when we are on the road. Trust me that I will discuss this with our production people here. Thanks for the question, and keep listening!