Marquette Golden Eagles head coach Shaka Smart spoke after his teams’ dominant victory against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish. There is some debate as to how coaches should handle big wins. Is it better to bask in the moment, or is it more important to get on any mistakes players made so that they don’t lose their edge? Calm, and matter of fact, Coach Smart elected to not only compliment his team, but also to compliment the stage of development that the young Irish program is at as well.
Marquette Golden Eagles Injury Concern
Coming in to the game, it appeared that a lingering hamstring concern was facing Marquette Golden Eagles guard Stevie Mitchell. For someone that appeared to be a game time decision for his game against Notre Dame, Coach Smart said that they found out at shoot around that he would not be able to play. At this time it appears to be a questionable timetable for his return.
This was a big opportunity for others, as he is someone that is currently averaging 20 minutes a game. While today he was not missed, he is someone this Marquette Golden Eagles team will be excited to have return to the rotation when fully healthy.
Marquette Golden Eagles Coach On Notre Dame
While coaches will routinely say how great other teams are, Coach Smart went a step further in his post game remarks.
I also give a lot of credit to Notre Dame, their team reminds me a lot of our team two year ago…And I thought they just continued to fight and battle, do what they do, and that’s why they won the second half, played very well, and made some plays.
He knows that this young squad will just continue to get better together, and wanted to be sure to acknowledge the heart of their competitors.
Marquette Golden Eagles Defensive Focus
Unsurprisingly, Coach Smart spoke mostly about the success of the defense. He mostly noted that there was not only good on-ball pressure, but also multiple efforts to keep with the play. He also complimented how well his players were on switching and rotating to cover the help defense.
One hustle player that he was asked about in particular was Chase Ross. Coach Smart had the following to say about first time starter Chase Ross, who finished with 8 points and 8 rebounds:
He’s awesome. I love he guy. I wish we could clone him, because he is the type of guy that you can never have enough people like him. He’s got an unselfishness about him, he’s got a toughness about him…and he was plus 35 that means when he was in the game a lot of good things happened.
Having a coach desire to replicate your genetic makeup into another body is usually a good sign that you are doing something right in the eyes of the coach. There is a lot to look forward to in his development throughout the season.
With Coach Smart seeming to be happy with where his team is at this stage of the season, will there be any noticeable changes made, or will this team pivot to something that has not been seen at this point in the season for their upcoming matches?
Frequently Asked Questions
What nationality is Shaka Smart?
Shaka Smart is an American national. Born on April 8, 1977, in the United States, he holds American citizenship and has become well-known for his successful career as a men's college basketball coach.
Where is Shaka Smart coaching now?
Shaka Smart is currently the head coach for the Marquette University men's basketball team, leading the Golden Eagles since the 2021 season in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. His tenure includes significant achievements such as earning the BIG EAST Conference titles in the 2022-23 season.
