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[QUOTE="Full_Rebar, post: 1318228, member: 3530"]
I've taken some exercise phys classes and comparing pro soccer players to college basketball players is hard (as it is for most sports). Elite soccer players are training for endurance even throughout the season. Are we thinking that any college basketball team is doing 30-40 minutes of straight cardio more than once a week? These guys train summer/fall and then are thrown into practice mode- so they are doing drills, shooting, and maybe playing some full-court scrimmage during a 90-120 minute session.

I am sure Christmas is in great shape, but what toll does it take on his body to have Okafor at 270 banging him for 25-30 minutes? Muscle fatigue is bound to set in when you are asking players to make explosive plays while absorbing as much contact as is allowed in college basketball. Going back to soccer, are players able to make the type of explosive runs in the 85th minute, that they can make in the 15th minute? It's not just about mileage (I can run a lot longer at 11 minute mile pace than I can if I try to run 7 minute mile pace), but intensity and what the body is being trained to do.

You also need to account for the other factors which can limit fatigue- sleep, nutrition, and proper recovery. I'm sure SU has whirlpools and ice baths, but are players sleeping enough, and eating the proper food? I've said it before, but SU should look to invest in a better dining facility for athletes including a nutritionist. You are asking 18-22 yo olds to live in apartments and do the things that make a huge difference in performance.
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