Before getting into my main point let me just say that I've only been following Texas Hoops since about 2004 so take that for what it's worth.

Today's loss to UConn has put me in a bad mood, only adding to the suck that this Saturday has become.  So my irrationality may be getting the better of me right now.  I just want to know what your thoughts are on Rick Barnes' long term future with Texas.

He has a nice list of things he's good at.

He can recruit.  He can develop "project" players.  He has been loyal to the University with regards to job opportunities.  He has made Texas a perennially respected basketball program.  He's a gutsy scheduler as far as playing the big boys.  He demands discipline and accountability.  These are all things I love Barnes for.  He doesn't sugarcoat press conferences like Mack and he has a endearingly gritty personality.  He's made the tourny EVERY year at Texas..which is pretty unbelievable.  Kudos on these accounts.

However...

He has his flaws like every coach.  He runs a "street ball" offense.  Call it what you like, screening, motion, dribble-drive whatever.  I'm no expert and never played organized basketball after middle school, but it just sort of confuses me when I watch them on the floor.  He is very laissez-faire with momentum changes and calling timeouts.  His teams hit a slump every year right around the end of January around the transition into conference play.  Look at our schedules going back 5 seasons.  It's the same every year.  And his ear...

Honestly I really am having trouble finding things to pick at about Barnes.  He does most things right but I just have this building feeling of frustration, perhaps a result of inflated expectations this year.  Will Texas ever get over the top.  Does it matter to the average Texas fan?  We've had some great seasons, a Final Four, a couple Elite Eights, several Sweet 16's.  Not too shabby...but this program is what 11 or 12 years in the building?!  Has Texas peaked as a basketball program?