In Reply to: I usually agree with Don MacLean, but .... posted by mh on January 24, 2026 at 20:59:50
talking about conceding a layup without defending. He spoke in reaction to Martinelli already having beaten his man and I believe Bilodeau as well to the hoop and the layup was inevitable. In that case trying to block the shot was probably only going to result in a free throw and a possible 3 point play.
At the end of the game with a lead, if the opponent is shooting and scoring 2's then you have the ability to match them either by hitting a 2 or getting two free throws. As long as you're matching their scores they aren't cutting into the lead and thus you are holding on to your lead.
Players know when they are beat. Trying to change that by trying to contest the shot is not smart play. In the case MacLean was referencing it was smart to let Martinelli go. If you decide to stop the basket from being made then you better foul hard enough so the guy can't get the shot off. That isn't always a given and he might still score and you also run the risk of getting a flagrant foul which is even worse. The smart play is to defend without fouling and if and when you're beat let him go. I think that's what Donnie Mac was saying.