“They win by making us think we’re alone” – Poe Dameron (Star Wars, The Rise of Skywalker)
Poe may have been talking to a Wookie and friends in a galaxy far, far, away, but the logic applies to a group of underdogs in Charlottesville as well. After three consecutive losses, Wahoos the world over are heaping criticism on this team. But these young Hoos need all of our support to defeat the Final Order.
At its best, a team and its supporters are almost one, both feeding off of each other. It’s a true symbiotic relationship, in which the fans are bolstered by the success of their team, and the players perform better whilst people heap praise on them.
I’m sorry to say it, but this is not quite what’s going on with the Hoos and their fans. A quick glance at one’s Twitter feed is enough evidence of this, with negative comments glaring from all corners. In a time in which the team is faltering, the fans need to be united, helping to raise the team up.
Realize that I am not saying that there was nothing wrong with tonight’s game, because there most certainly was. We saw turnovers, missed threes, and sloppy defending. But there was also good finishing in the paint, great stretches of defense, and Virginia’s leader stepping up in a big game.
So what’s my point with all this? To prove to you that this team is only a lost cause if we make it one. It’s time for the Hoos around the galaxy to rally together and show this team that it’s not alone.