FanPost

Vanderbilt Basketball: A Year in Review

Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

That Wichita State loss was tough to swallow yesterday, and it only makes sense that Stallings ended it with a bone-headed technical foul. Now that the season is over, disappointment or not, it is only logical to reflect on both Vandy's shortcomings and triumphs that made this season such a roller-coaster ride. I'll be honest though, this was a disappointing season.

Some Goodbyes

At this point, it is almost certain that we will not be seeing Damian Jones or Wade Baldwin IV donning the black and gold once again. Both have been integral parts of Vandy's quasi-successful seasons the past two years, and it's a real shame to see them leave. Jones has already gone on record for the Tennessean stating he intends to enter into this year's draft, making his Commodore days officially over now. Baldwin on the other hand was ranked as the second best point guard in this year's draft class, going 6th overall. If Baldwin stays around that spot, his stock may never be higher than now, so if he learned any lessons from Jones' underwhelming year this year that has him drifting into the late first round, it would be wise of him to leave the impending tire-fire Vanderbilt is becoming. We will also miss rotational fixture Josh Henderson, and seniors Nathan Watkins and Carter Josephs, some guys who gave their all for this program over the span of four years.

A more daunting conversation for this offseason though, might be bidding farewell to long-time HC Kevin Stallings. Vanderbilt started the year in talks for a final four, as they possessed NBA-level talent at a bevy of positions and some inside-out firepower. Criticisms for Vandy's soft and inconsistent play have been levied all to often this year, and in the end, that might be on the coach. Administration has lent an air of quietness and ambiguity to the situation, which to me means they are preparing to let him go. In the past, the university has praised Stallings' hard-nosed style vehemently, and not standing up for Vandy's all-time winningest coach when analysts throw harsh words his way seems to me that sentiments are not all that positive for Coach Stallings at the moment. Regardless of whether they decide to terminate his contract or not, Stallings has had a highly decorated career at Vanderbilt, and most have nothing but respect for his basketball acumen and drive.

Some Hellos
The future does not look as good in terms of roster talent for Vandy right now, but hello Joe Toye! The freshman who was a pick-and-roll combo with Jahlil Okafor showed up big time in the play-in game in Dayton, leading all Vanderbilt scorers.Glue guy Jeff Roberson might turn into Alpha Dog for the offense in a matter of weeks, and his game continues to look more and more polished. In addition, Riley LaChance has slowly gained back confidence after a horrendous season, and I am excited to see what he does in extended minutes next year. Freshman Center Djery Baptiste is also posied to make some solid contributions, garnering comparisons to Festus Ezeli, something I would definitely be excited about. Some things might still be looking up for Vanderbilt right now.

The Highs

Being ranked in Seth Goodman's final four, projecting to be the top SEC team

W vs. Texas A&M

W vs. Kentucky

Wade Baldwin dabbing

Hendo's full court shot on an absolute line drive, he got on ESPN too!

The Lows

Not meeting any of the expectations set out by analysts

Being labeled as soft

L vs. Ole Miss after Wade Baldwin's dab

L vs. Tenesseee

L vs. Wichita State

Overall Grade for the season: C- (this one is definitely one to forget, a huge flop)

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