duq81 wrote:

My guess is that Ferry has decided to look to the future, rather than try to win a few extra games this year. He looks as though he has decided which players he expects to fit into his future plans, and is going to force feed them. Those who he doesn't think have a future here, will not play. I know some hate this philosophy, and always want to win games, but I personally have no problem with it. I like to take the long view, and wouldn't care if we didn't win another game this year, if it benefited us in the long run. The goal is to be good enough to earn an at large bid to the NCAA Tournament, nothing less. If Ferry feels that he needs to find out what he has by throwing them in the deep end, I have no problem with it. It's his job that will be on the line if he fails.

 
I understand your point DUQ, but in this case he really doesn't have any other options on the bench that would help him win games.  I doubt he would keep a guy on the bench that he felt could help him win a game.  Nobody wants to win a game more than the Coach..

FAM wrote:

I am wondering if he has benched Abele and hopes he will transfer or quit since he is not going to get to the point to really help us.  That would give us one more scholarship.

 
It really comes down to the style of the opponent.  Abele can contribute more in a slower paced game,  The last two teams UMASS and VCU were more uptempo making it difficult for Abele to have an impact.  You may see him more in slower paced games; possibly St Louis.  The return of Datt has also cut into Abele's playing time.

While I do not believe that Abele is an every game player, I would hope that he can be utilized by the staff to his and our best advantage this year and next. You can't expect this kid to transfer again.

You are right. He may well not fit into Ferry's long-term plans here but I do believe he can be helpful as a spot player and likely only that. I'll be in section B to see what happens tonight.