I think 22-8 with a solid strength of schedule would've gotten us in. It was a year of parity. There were three top teams in the region. It was really bunched from No. 4-20.

The 3-point shooting didn't surprise us. We knew that was their strength last year and this year. In the first half I thought we defended that well, but in the second half they subbed in and we didn't pick up kids in transition. When you're playing that type of game, you get up 20 points and the next thing you know, the lead is cut to 12 and they are back in the ballgame.

We've been holding off on going to Puerto Rico until we absolutely needed to. We may need to do that to get regional games.

Early, where he really struggled was getting shots. He became a jump shooter. He can make shots, but when that becomes the primary function, that's a problem. He's so good on the bounce; and when he plays the 4 or 5, they can't guard him on the dribble. He can hit the shot, but if they come up, he can go by them.

This group gave unbelievable effort. They hung in there despite being a little outmanned. We were in a position to win.

After a careful and complete review of the facts, we thought it best that these players leave the team. This was a very difficult decision to make, but one that was necessary.