The influence felt by the addition of Jim Harrick as head coach of Georgia’s men’s basketball program might not be evident in the win column, but it is on the court. A 7-7 Bulldog team is not a definite reason for optimism about this season.

However, for the first time since Tubby Smith departed for Kentucky, the future of the team appears very bright.

Harrick pointed out after a Jan. 5 loss at Mississippi State that this was the first game in which his team’s effort disappointed him. The statement rings true as this Georgia team that has found itself outgunned by more experienced foes has established itself as a gritty and gutsy team.

Saturday’s 67-52 loss at No. 4 Auburn occurred for the simple fact that the Tigers knew they could not allow the over-matched Bulldogs to hang around until the final minutes. Georgia achieved a victory over a good Wake Forest team through hanging around and stealing a win at the end. The Bulldogs may not beat you, but they make it hell for you to beat them.

The Tigers played well enough to coast toward the end, but it should be noted that Georgia did not fold after a 17-0 Auburn run brought their lead from three points to 20 early in the second half. The Bulldogs continued to push, and Tiger coach Cliff Ellis did not feel comfortable enough to take his starters out until 32 seconds remained in the

game.

This is the sign of a well-coached basketball team. Last season’s team made a habit of hanging it up when things were not going their way. The difference this season is obvious. Even trailing by double digits, Bulldog players were highly animated, cursing themselves after missed free throws.

One can only imagine what this effort could have brought last season’s team. Despite the talent, the ’99 Dogs appeared to be sleep-walking a majority of the time, and underachieved their way to a drubbing by Clemson in the first round of the NIT.

The difference is certainly Harrick. The offense appears much more organized, with low post players Shon Coleman and Anthony Evans consistently finding open shots near the basket. Guard D.A. Layne, while streaky, has emerged as a genuine scoring threat, yet the offense does not solely rely on him, as was the case with Jumaine Jones last year. Credit Harrick with bringing Coleman and Evans to Athens, and finding a way to motivate a team that suffered under previous coach Ron Jirsa.

One other thing: with the exception of Badi Oliver, the entire Bulldog squad is back next year, with a coach that boasts a national title. It’s time for the crowds to return to Stegeman.

– Gentry Estes is sports

editor for The Red & Black.