It is a daunting task to face the Carleton Ravens not only because of their physical abilities but due to their mental tenacity. Recovering loose balls. Taking charges. Tipping passes. Boxing out. Hitting the floor. Following shots. Talking. Refusing to give up. A post player following his own miss. A point guard stepping in front of a forward to protect the basket.
The team is technically skilled and obviously practices diligently. They can take a small opening and use it to break down the door. The game may be close for one moment and a blowout minutes later. The opponent is under so much pressure to succeed at the other end – since the Ravens execute their plays excellently – that they often crack. I have seen teams make such a big deal out of their home games with Carleton that the gym becomes so tense that the strange environment hurts the home team more than the visitors. The host is pushed out of their comfort zone but Carleton is not because they are used to the atmosphere. This mental edge is as integral as any physical advantage.
Yet there have been many occasions when the Ravens did not play their best – when poor shooting creates an inability to score – and still won because of what happened at the other end. Dave Smart’s style may not suit all players but the entire roster at Carleton buys into his attention to detail. Mistakes are not tolerated, especially on defence. The team may stumble offensively but they always play together on defence. Every bench player is always ready to step in and contribute.
Watching film of Carleton has a limited effect. The sets are straightforward enough and the talents of each player fairly evident. Teams cannot beat the Ravens unless they are willing to fight them and match their intensity. The Ravens will go through anyone to get to the ball. Basketball success is derived from stops and scores. That is entirely what Carleton’s players and coaches are about, never individual glory. Individuals will receive enough accolades when the team achieves great success.
When playing the reigning Canadian National Champions, teams must center themselves. They are not Carleton and cannot be Carleton. They won’t have the reputation of the Ravens and will not be given the benefit of the doubt from the officials. Teams must focus on what they do best and do that as well as possible. If possible, opponents should instil their tempo on the game. But it is essential that they match the Ravens’ intensity. They have to battle them, in the paint and in the trenches.