The Jimmy V Classic took place last night at Madison Square Garden, an annual event featuring four of the nation's top teams and celebrating one of the most recognized personalities of college basketball history. Jim Valvano created the Jimmy V Foundation, an organization dedicated to cancer research after a historic speech at the 1993 ESPY Awards in New York. Valvano coached at Iona, Johns Hopkins, Bucknell and most famously at NC State where he won a 1983 national title with the "Cardiac Kids." Valvano is famous for his reaction after the Derek Whittenburg buzzer beater where he was sprinting around Albuquerque's The Pit arena, just looking for someone to hug. Valvano later became an analyst for ESPN while it was growing as a national television power, and gave a historically inspirational speech after being diagnosed with cancer. "Don't give up, don't ever give up" is the foundation's mantra, and epitomizes Jim Valvano's life. He died two months after the speech, but his presence remains in the foundation and college basketball even 15 years later.
In the Jimmy V first game, Davidson played West Virginia. Stephen Curry goes 4-16 from three and has eight turnovers, quick what happens to Davidson? Assumed answer would be the Wildcats get killed against some real competition like West Va, but Curry got his points at the most crucial times and finished with 27 and 10 assists. Curry played all 40 minutes and only six Davidson players scored, and Curry looked frustrated for much of the game even though Bob McKillop's squad led nearly the whole way. Not often will Curry have an off night, and this was a precious opportunity for someone to beat the 'Cats, but West Va couldn't take advantage of their 58-32 rebounding edge which included 29 offensive boards. Da'Sean Butler was mighty impressive for the Mountaineers as he went for 24 and 14, but the spotlight belonged to Curry, who kept shooting and playing through his cold slump and managed to connect in the end, scoring 13 of Davidson's last 15 points. This game just proved to show Curry is the elite scoring guard in the nation, regardless of what conference he plays in. And until further notice, Davidson has a shot to beat anyone until they can solve a way to stop Curry.
The second Jimmy V contest featured an untested Villanova team close to home playing an already tested, experienced Texas team. This was Texas' third game against a top-15 opponent (losses to Notre Dame in Maui and a victory over UCLA at home last Thursday) and it showed as Texas grabbed a 67-58 win that they led throughout. Texas held Scottie Reynolds to 2-7 shooting and made big man Dante Cunningham beat them. Although Cunningham went for 23 and 12, the Cats could not slow down A.J. Abrams. Abrams shoots early and often and last night was no different. An 8-18 night where he hit four three pointers, helped Abrams with yet another 20+ output game, his fourth of the season. Abrams also had four assists combined with an impressive zero turnovers, as the Longhorns used their swarming defense to slow down 'Nova. Seven Texas blocks and eight team rebounds to Villanova's one was the determining factor in the game. Texas continues to not receive respect when all they do is contend in every game they play. As the season goes on and the supporting cast improves, Texas looks to become more and more dangerous.
Shoot-Around
- Wisconsin almost blows yet another game at home to a middling mid-major. Idaho State went into the Kohl Center 2-5 and the only optimistic thing on their resume represents a win over Utah. They escaped with a 60-58 win in a game Travon Hughes had eight points on 1-4 shooting and five free throws. The Badgers shot fourteen more free throws than Idaho State, a major reason they could overcome shooting 37% to the Bengals' 52%. It was Wisconsin's third home game (out of 4) which have been decided by less than 10 points. The badgers have yet to play a team with a projected under 200 RPI.
- There was a time when Ames, Iowa was hell for everyone in the nation to come through. Nobody could win there during the Jamaal Tinsley and Marcus Fizer era, but those days are long gone. Drake went into Hilton Coliseum and captured their second victory in as many trips and third overall in the series after a 66-63 win. Drake moved to a transparent 7-2 where they have looked anything but impressive, and Iowa State dropped to 6-2, forgoing a 24 point output by guard Lucca Staiger. Staiger hit all 24 points on eight three balls, but allowed Drake to snag its first lead with under two minutes to play at 64-62. The Bulldogs held on for another win,and another home Iowa State loss.
- Georgia moved to 6-3 after beating Virginia Tech 67-66 and recovered from a lambasting in Champagne over the weekend when they got beat 76-42 at the hands of Illinois. Really an absolute pathetic display of basketball was on display in Athens last night; A.D. Vassallo looked to be the only player from both teams that deserved to have a jersey on. Vassallo went for 23 in 37 minutes, but the rest of the Hokie squad went 16 of 41 from the field, including 2 of 14 from three. Georgia wasn't much better, shooting 5 of 14 from three and 10-21 from the charity stripe. This contest proved neither team will be much of a factor in either of their major conferences.
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Sunday, December 7, 2008
The Daily Gus: December 7th
A mini-upset Saturday was brewed across the national landscape, and two Big Ten rivals led the way to do so. Ohio State and Michigan both faced top 10 squads who the nation loves, Notre Dame and Duke respectively. Ohio State got Notre Dame on a neutral court and Michigan got the Blue Devils in the friendly confines of Ann Arbor. As called right here on MTM, the Buckeyes would prevail in Luke Harangody's first game back from sickness. Ohio State got the win, 67-62 led strongly by a career day from OSU forward Evan Turner. Turner had 28 on 11-16 from the field to go along with ten rebounds and five assists. He did it all and Ohio State capped off an incredible week, beating Miami and then ND, to certainly garner some national respect. Surprising to this columnist, Harangody played fantastic in his comeback, he had 25 and 16, but it was the Buckeye press and smothering defense that was their benchmark. Ohio State got up by as many as ten, forcing the Irish guards to really struggle with the pressure and as a result their jumpers fell short. Irish guards Kyle McAlarney and Tory Jackson combined for just a 7-22 performance and only 19 of the 62 Dame points. Ohio State now does not leave Columbus until the Big Ten season kicks off on January 3rd, so it is a distinct possibility we could be seeing a 12-0, highly ranked Buckeye team taking on Michigan State in early 2009. Michigan got beat at Maryland by five on Wednesday after defeating lowly Savannah State by two last weekend. The Wolverines got up for Duke just as they did for UCLA and shocked the blue Devils led by DeShawn Sims' 28 points and 12 rebounds. John Beilein captures another giant killer win to his resume that just keeps on growing, and all of a sudden Michigan could be a Big Ten contender. Duke shot 48%, placed four players in double figures and equally rebounded and turned over with Michigan. Why the loss? 33 three point attempts. Kyle Singler and Jon Scheyer went 2-14 from three, and the entire team did not even try to get the ball inside to post Singler, as Michigan was able to exercise its identity and slow down the game, getting easy buckets in transition and open looks from three. The telling statistic is at the free throw line, where *gasp* Michigan shot SIXTEEN more free throws than Duke. Last time that will ever happen, I promise. This however had nothing to do with the zebras, and everything to do with Duke's lack of desire to go inside. They could not utilize their size advantage and as a result take a real tough road loss to Michigan.
Shoot-Around
- Illinois moved to 7-1 after a 76-42 rout of Georgia on Saturday. Dennis Felton's UGA club has bounced right back to mediocrity after that miraculous run in the SEC tournament in March. They are 5-3, but have yet to get a 300+ RPI win, and have looked anything but stellar.
- Battle of Boston went to Boston College as Tyrese Rice had 21 for the Eagles as they dropped UMass to 1-6. The Minutemen led by three at the break, but down the stretch and in overtime no one could score except for Ricky Harris. Harris had 35 in the loss.
- UNLV is starting to get on track, they moved to 7-2 after a 64-57 win at in-state rival Nevada-Reno. Not only getting on track, but the Rebs seem to be a bit deeper than at first glance. Rene Rougeau had 19 and 13 for UNLV and TreVon Willis had 11 to go along with the regular contribution of Wink Adams' 11. UNLV leads the rivalry series 51-19!
- Dwight O'Neill hits a fadeaway jumper as time expires to give Fresno State a 66-64 victory over Pacific. The Spanos Center at UOP is one of the toughest venues on the west coast, so a great victory for Fresno. Paul George had 23 for Fresno who has been incredibly disappointing checking in at 3-4 with losses in all of their opportunity games; St. Mary, San Diego State, UNLV and Nevada. Maybe this can springboard them; the next eight are a piece of cake with a date at Creighton sandwiched in.
- Forget figuring out Charlotte. The Niners can't buy a home win, and then go into one of the toughest venues in the nation in Carbondale and squeak out a victory 66-64. Ian Andersen hit six treys for Charlotte as they moved to 2-6. Southern Illinois is certainly not as strong as past years, but a win in the doghouse is tough to come by.
- Curtis Jerrells struggled from the field (3/10) but Baylor got a win at Washington State 58-52. Wazzu is in a rebuilding mode, and is an overrated 6-2, but they only lost one game last season in Pullman to UCLA. Baylor moved to 7-1 and has looked mighty professional, just finding ways to win. If Jerrells continues to struggle though, those wins could become harder to come by.
Shoot-Around
- Illinois moved to 7-1 after a 76-42 rout of Georgia on Saturday. Dennis Felton's UGA club has bounced right back to mediocrity after that miraculous run in the SEC tournament in March. They are 5-3, but have yet to get a 300+ RPI win, and have looked anything but stellar.
- Battle of Boston went to Boston College as Tyrese Rice had 21 for the Eagles as they dropped UMass to 1-6. The Minutemen led by three at the break, but down the stretch and in overtime no one could score except for Ricky Harris. Harris had 35 in the loss.
- UNLV is starting to get on track, they moved to 7-2 after a 64-57 win at in-state rival Nevada-Reno. Not only getting on track, but the Rebs seem to be a bit deeper than at first glance. Rene Rougeau had 19 and 13 for UNLV and TreVon Willis had 11 to go along with the regular contribution of Wink Adams' 11. UNLV leads the rivalry series 51-19!
- Dwight O'Neill hits a fadeaway jumper as time expires to give Fresno State a 66-64 victory over Pacific. The Spanos Center at UOP is one of the toughest venues on the west coast, so a great victory for Fresno. Paul George had 23 for Fresno who has been incredibly disappointing checking in at 3-4 with losses in all of their opportunity games; St. Mary, San Diego State, UNLV and Nevada. Maybe this can springboard them; the next eight are a piece of cake with a date at Creighton sandwiched in.
- Forget figuring out Charlotte. The Niners can't buy a home win, and then go into one of the toughest venues in the nation in Carbondale and squeak out a victory 66-64. Ian Andersen hit six treys for Charlotte as they moved to 2-6. Southern Illinois is certainly not as strong as past years, but a win in the doghouse is tough to come by.
- Curtis Jerrells struggled from the field (3/10) but Baylor got a win at Washington State 58-52. Wazzu is in a rebuilding mode, and is an overrated 6-2, but they only lost one game last season in Pullman to UCLA. Baylor moved to 7-1 and has looked mighty professional, just finding ways to win. If Jerrells continues to struggle though, those wins could become harder to come by.
Friday, December 5, 2008
The Weekend Look-Ahead: December 5th-7th
Friday:
Arizona (5-1) @ Texas A&M (5-1)
Arizona has transitioned nicely since the UAB loss, winning four home games against mid-majors, the only close one being a three point win over Santa Clara. Chase Budinger is averaging 21 on the season, and is the only scoring option for the 'Cats. Tonight starts a crucial five game stretch where they face UNLV, San Diego State, A&M, Kansas and Gonzaga. They could possibly be 5-6 at the end of 2008. A&M is slowly gliding itself into the season; reverting back to the slow pace that brought them out of the depths of the Big 12. It is Josh Carter's team for his senior season after living behind Dominique Kirk, Joseph Jones and Acie Law for three years. Carter is averaging 14 a game and shooting 40% from the land of plenty. The Aggies played their first four games at home against low majors who they trampled then lost at Tulsa. In their last game they won at Kent State, so a decent road win should set them up nicely for tonight.
The Play: A&M has a little more depth than Arizona, plus the game is at College Station; I'll take the Aggies 66-62.
Saturday
Vanderbilt (5-2) @ Georgia Tech (4-1)
Georgia Tech got beat at home to Penn State on Wednesday in the ACC/Big Ten Challenge proving a failed logic to Paul Hewitt's easy scheduling. Vanderbilt is coming off of a 16 point shocking home loss to Illinois-Chicago after winning the Cancun Challenge. A.J. Ogilvy will need to be huge in this game, but something has to give; both teams are looking to rebound from a poor performance earlier in the week.
The Play: AJ Ogilvy versus Tech's Ganai Lawal will be a real intriguing inside matchup. Ogilvy much more complete, should lead the Commodores to a great road win. Vandy 71-65.
Rhode Island (6-2) @ Providence (5-3)
The battle of the small state has bigtime impact on recruiting and bragging rights within the Ocean state. Jimmy Baron will look to get his threes off for URI, and I think Providence's athleticism will give him some trouble scoring. Providence still seems to be reeling after an opening home loss to Northeastern, and will need every ounce of their talent to beat a fast improving Rhode Island squad.
The Play: Providence has got to come out ready and prepared to guard and run for 40 minutes, which I cannot believe they will do until I see it. URI pressures all 40 minutes, 82-73 and Baron gets 25.
(4) Duke (8-0) @ Michigan (5-2)
Don't get your hopes up Ann Arbor.
The Play: They won't be able to combat Kyle Singler; Duke wins by 15.
Ohio State (4-0) @ (7) Notre Dame (6-1)
UPSET SPECIAL OF THE WEEKEND
Interesting play here; Luke Harangody is out indefinitely, so it will be Kyle McAlarney's game to win. With Ohio State's smothering defense, they could give the Irish shooters some trouble getting open looks, and if so with the lack of an interior presence, the Bucks have an incredible shot if they can rebound and shoot just 40%.
The Play: I like Ohio State here; they are certainly not better than Notre Dame, but the Irish are due for a cool down from the field, and without Harangody in their mixing up, they have problems. Ohio State just got a great road win at Miami, they can get an upset here. 68-63 Ohio State.
(21) Miami (FL) (4-2) @ Kentucky (5-2)
Quick. Name the last time Miami would be favored at Kentucky. Youre a liar if you thought it was inside Rupp Arena and not on the Lexington gridiron. The Canes will be without first-team all-ACCer James McClinton, suspended after his punch during the Ohio State game Tuesday. They imploded after his ejection, and there could be a hangover tomorrow. If theres ever a chance for Billy Gillespie to right the ship and get a good win this is it.
The Play: UK realllly needs a good win, and this is one that just screams off the page. Wildcats 72-60.
VCU (4-3) at William & Mary (3-5)
VCU is 0-2 on the road as they revisit the team that dashed their NCAA hopes last season in the CAA semifinals. Both teams are a little different this season, but Eric Maynor is in the top ten in the nation in scoring; he's averaging 25 a game for the Rams. VCU could use a conference opening win, but if William and Mary can utilize the zone that slowed down the Rams in the CAA last season, they will always have a shot.
The Play: Look for the 1-3-1 W&M put on VCU last year, and if it's as effective, things will be turned upside down again in the Colonial. VCU is a little bigger this season, and the Tribe can't hold Maynor down all night; VCU 71-64.
Colorado State (3-4) @ Boise State (5-1)
Boise is 5-0 at home this season and just escaped with an 86-85 win over Wyoming Wednesday night; they now welcome another Mountain West foe to the Taco Bell Arena. Boise relies on 6'7 forward Mark Sanchez on both sides of the floor; hes averaging 17 a game and has been named WAC player of the week in November and has scored 20+ twice. Boise got crushed by 30 in their one loss, at Siena in a BracketBuster return, but the Broncos are a tough out at home.
The Play: Colorado State has four losses by a combined 16 points; although a loss to D-II St. Martin's was not encouraging. A helter-skelter team going into hostile Boise will struggle for sure. Boise 72-59.
Wisconsin (6-1) @ (25) Marquette (6-1)
GAME OF THE WEEKEND
The battle of for the cheese. The annual Wisconsin rivalry rekindles its magic Saturday as Dominic James versus Travon Hughes should provide boatloads of entertainment. Marquette lost on a neutral court to Dayton last Saturday, but is unbeaten at home as they face their certainly toughest test to date. Wisconsin comes off of a huge win at Virginia Tech where they needed some last minute Badger magic to escape with a victory.
The Play: Wisconsin cannot score with Marquette, but Marquette has not faced defense nearly this tough all season. The Badger D will keep them in it, but will not give them the victory. James will get his and the Golden Eagles win at home, 68-62.
Sunday
(23) Florida (6-1) @ Florida State (7-1)
The Noles got beat at Northwestern in the ACC/Big Ten Challenge, and really showed some weakness in their first true test all year. Still they hold a gaudy 7-1 record which must be valued, and Florida has looked anything but impressive in their last three wins since their loss to Syracuse in the CBE Classic. The first true road test for a young Florida team could spell some trouble in Tallahassee as the Noles are real tough at home.
The Play: Will be alot closer than the Noles/Gators football version, and the Noles have to be given a puncher's chance. Nick Calathes will be able to score whenever he wants because the Noles have no desire to play defense. FSU has enough athleticism, but not enough raw talent, Gators 82-72.
Arizona (5-1) @ Texas A&M (5-1)
Arizona has transitioned nicely since the UAB loss, winning four home games against mid-majors, the only close one being a three point win over Santa Clara. Chase Budinger is averaging 21 on the season, and is the only scoring option for the 'Cats. Tonight starts a crucial five game stretch where they face UNLV, San Diego State, A&M, Kansas and Gonzaga. They could possibly be 5-6 at the end of 2008. A&M is slowly gliding itself into the season; reverting back to the slow pace that brought them out of the depths of the Big 12. It is Josh Carter's team for his senior season after living behind Dominique Kirk, Joseph Jones and Acie Law for three years. Carter is averaging 14 a game and shooting 40% from the land of plenty. The Aggies played their first four games at home against low majors who they trampled then lost at Tulsa. In their last game they won at Kent State, so a decent road win should set them up nicely for tonight.
The Play: A&M has a little more depth than Arizona, plus the game is at College Station; I'll take the Aggies 66-62.
Saturday
Vanderbilt (5-2) @ Georgia Tech (4-1)
Georgia Tech got beat at home to Penn State on Wednesday in the ACC/Big Ten Challenge proving a failed logic to Paul Hewitt's easy scheduling. Vanderbilt is coming off of a 16 point shocking home loss to Illinois-Chicago after winning the Cancun Challenge. A.J. Ogilvy will need to be huge in this game, but something has to give; both teams are looking to rebound from a poor performance earlier in the week.
The Play: AJ Ogilvy versus Tech's Ganai Lawal will be a real intriguing inside matchup. Ogilvy much more complete, should lead the Commodores to a great road win. Vandy 71-65.
Rhode Island (6-2) @ Providence (5-3)
The battle of the small state has bigtime impact on recruiting and bragging rights within the Ocean state. Jimmy Baron will look to get his threes off for URI, and I think Providence's athleticism will give him some trouble scoring. Providence still seems to be reeling after an opening home loss to Northeastern, and will need every ounce of their talent to beat a fast improving Rhode Island squad.
The Play: Providence has got to come out ready and prepared to guard and run for 40 minutes, which I cannot believe they will do until I see it. URI pressures all 40 minutes, 82-73 and Baron gets 25.
(4) Duke (8-0) @ Michigan (5-2)
Don't get your hopes up Ann Arbor.
The Play: They won't be able to combat Kyle Singler; Duke wins by 15.
Ohio State (4-0) @ (7) Notre Dame (6-1)
UPSET SPECIAL OF THE WEEKEND
Interesting play here; Luke Harangody is out indefinitely, so it will be Kyle McAlarney's game to win. With Ohio State's smothering defense, they could give the Irish shooters some trouble getting open looks, and if so with the lack of an interior presence, the Bucks have an incredible shot if they can rebound and shoot just 40%.
The Play: I like Ohio State here; they are certainly not better than Notre Dame, but the Irish are due for a cool down from the field, and without Harangody in their mixing up, they have problems. Ohio State just got a great road win at Miami, they can get an upset here. 68-63 Ohio State.
(21) Miami (FL) (4-2) @ Kentucky (5-2)
Quick. Name the last time Miami would be favored at Kentucky. Youre a liar if you thought it was inside Rupp Arena and not on the Lexington gridiron. The Canes will be without first-team all-ACCer James McClinton, suspended after his punch during the Ohio State game Tuesday. They imploded after his ejection, and there could be a hangover tomorrow. If theres ever a chance for Billy Gillespie to right the ship and get a good win this is it.
The Play: UK realllly needs a good win, and this is one that just screams off the page. Wildcats 72-60.
VCU (4-3) at William & Mary (3-5)
VCU is 0-2 on the road as they revisit the team that dashed their NCAA hopes last season in the CAA semifinals. Both teams are a little different this season, but Eric Maynor is in the top ten in the nation in scoring; he's averaging 25 a game for the Rams. VCU could use a conference opening win, but if William and Mary can utilize the zone that slowed down the Rams in the CAA last season, they will always have a shot.
The Play: Look for the 1-3-1 W&M put on VCU last year, and if it's as effective, things will be turned upside down again in the Colonial. VCU is a little bigger this season, and the Tribe can't hold Maynor down all night; VCU 71-64.
Colorado State (3-4) @ Boise State (5-1)
Boise is 5-0 at home this season and just escaped with an 86-85 win over Wyoming Wednesday night; they now welcome another Mountain West foe to the Taco Bell Arena. Boise relies on 6'7 forward Mark Sanchez on both sides of the floor; hes averaging 17 a game and has been named WAC player of the week in November and has scored 20+ twice. Boise got crushed by 30 in their one loss, at Siena in a BracketBuster return, but the Broncos are a tough out at home.
The Play: Colorado State has four losses by a combined 16 points; although a loss to D-II St. Martin's was not encouraging. A helter-skelter team going into hostile Boise will struggle for sure. Boise 72-59.
Wisconsin (6-1) @ (25) Marquette (6-1)
GAME OF THE WEEKEND
The battle of for the cheese. The annual Wisconsin rivalry rekindles its magic Saturday as Dominic James versus Travon Hughes should provide boatloads of entertainment. Marquette lost on a neutral court to Dayton last Saturday, but is unbeaten at home as they face their certainly toughest test to date. Wisconsin comes off of a huge win at Virginia Tech where they needed some last minute Badger magic to escape with a victory.
The Play: Wisconsin cannot score with Marquette, but Marquette has not faced defense nearly this tough all season. The Badger D will keep them in it, but will not give them the victory. James will get his and the Golden Eagles win at home, 68-62.
Sunday
(23) Florida (6-1) @ Florida State (7-1)
The Noles got beat at Northwestern in the ACC/Big Ten Challenge, and really showed some weakness in their first true test all year. Still they hold a gaudy 7-1 record which must be valued, and Florida has looked anything but impressive in their last three wins since their loss to Syracuse in the CBE Classic. The first true road test for a young Florida team could spell some trouble in Tallahassee as the Noles are real tough at home.
The Play: Will be alot closer than the Noles/Gators football version, and the Noles have to be given a puncher's chance. Nick Calathes will be able to score whenever he wants because the Noles have no desire to play defense. FSU has enough athleticism, but not enough raw talent, Gators 82-72.
The Daily Gus: December 5th
D.J. Augustin was arguably the best point guard in the nation last season being the all-everything for Texas as he took them to the Elite 8. He then declared for the NBA Draft, and a rebuilding year was expected for Rick Barnes' squad down in Austin. Seems everyone forgot the Longhorns still had one of the premiere guards in the Big 12. A.J. Abrams showed last night why Texas will still be a force and is one of the favorites to win the league once again, lifting the Horns to a 6-1 start. Abrams hit five three pointers and went 9 of 18 shooting and played 38 minutes to score 31 points, spurring Texas over UCLA in Austin. Texas jumped out to a nine point halftime lead, but the game was close the whole way, a contest that wreaked of March foreshadowing. Darren Collison had 22 for UCLA, but six turnovers really hurt the UCLA backcourt. Texas went out to Maui and got beat by Notre Dame in an amazing early season game and now comes back for a win in the Big 12-Pac 10 Hardwood Challenge Matchup Feast of two over powerful BCS leagues. The Horns seem to have gone under the radar, being overshadowed by Oklahoma in its own league and other powers nationally. The thing you have to respect about Texas is their willingness to never back down from an out of conference challenge, going anywhere to play anyone. Next week they will play Villanova in the Jimmy V Challenge and will later play at Wisconsin and at Arkansas. Rick Barnes, opposite of many of his fellow BCS schools (cough ACC) always believes tests in the non con make his team better in the league schedule, and it has certainly worked in the past.
Shoot-Around
- Let the BracketBuster return games begin; St. Mary's got beat last season in their only home defeat to Kent State, as Kent used that game to springboard into the NCAA discussion and the top 25. Thursday night, St. Mary's got some sweet revenge, going into the MAC favorite's home den and taking over in the second half for a 75-69 win. Patty Mills had 26, 19 in the second half and the Gaels keep rolling along, moving to 6-1 and picking up another good road win. Thursday night marked the beginning of a four game road swing for the Gaels, they will play at San Diego State, Oregon and Southern Illinois in the next week and a half. This could answer the question how good Patty Mills can make this team.
- Predictions are overrated. Butler moved to 6-0 and has showed no signs of slowing down after graduating five seniors last season. The Bulldogs kicked off their conference season last night, getting the toughest win in the league out of the way, nailing a buzzer beating three to win at Cleveland State. Cleveland St has been massively underacheiving, they are now 5-3 and are behind the proverbial 8-ball if Butler keeps playing like they know how. Butler shot 32% in the victory, as they slowed down the pace to a crawl, but forced the Vikings to play ugly, shooting 26% and 1-11 from three point range. If Cleveland State wants to even think about claiming the top spot from Butler in the Horizon things need to change before conference play gets going full force.
- Connecticut had looked real impressive in their seven victories to start the season; average margin of victory by 24 points per contest. The provocative thing was that the Huskies had not played a true road game until Thursday night, and boy did they get a rude awakening. Buffalo is a tough damn place to play, especially in the middle of December where there ain't much else to do except U Buffalo hoops and Bills football. Rodney Pierce got his game off for the Bulls, going for 28 and 10-19 from the field. Hasheem Thabeet was the player of the game though; Thabeet had 21 and 18 and combined with Jeff Adrien for eight blocks. The Bulls had a shot to tie the ballgame on the last possession but Pierce turned it over.
- Two years ago Wright State beat top 10 Butler twice and went to the NCAA Tournament after winning the Horizon league. This season Brad Brownell's squad has lost all leadership and to be honest talent. The Raiders are 0-5 after a 57-46 loss at home to Wisconsin Green Bay. Wright State gave up a 20-2 run late in the first half and mustered only three made threes on twenty attempts.
- Looks like we could have a title race in the Summit League this season rather than a simple Oral Roberts coronation. ORU traveled to Fargo last night and got beat by North Dakota State, as NDSU defended its homecourt to start the conference season. The Bison were picked second behind Oral in the Summit preseason poll, but ORU has struggled, going 1-5 in the non conference. North Dakota hasn't been much better, just 2-3, but last night was a huge home win that may indicate a time of change within the league. Guards Ben Woodside and Brent Winkelman combined for 44 points to lead NDSU.
- Blake Griffin was elbowed in the onions, but still managed to play his game and get 25 points and escape with a 73-72 victory over USC. The boys of Troy dropped to 5-3, and after two losses in Puerto Rico, Tim Floyd's squad is really struggling. The way they came out on the road and competed with a really good Oklahoma team. Daniel Hackett had 13 assists had showed Willie Warren a true point guard, as he helped Dwight Lewis get 25 points. The Sooners continue to move up the ranks, and show no signs of slowing down- although a true road test at Tulsa on Sunday should spark a little tenuous atmosphere.
Shoot-Around
- Let the BracketBuster return games begin; St. Mary's got beat last season in their only home defeat to Kent State, as Kent used that game to springboard into the NCAA discussion and the top 25. Thursday night, St. Mary's got some sweet revenge, going into the MAC favorite's home den and taking over in the second half for a 75-69 win. Patty Mills had 26, 19 in the second half and the Gaels keep rolling along, moving to 6-1 and picking up another good road win. Thursday night marked the beginning of a four game road swing for the Gaels, they will play at San Diego State, Oregon and Southern Illinois in the next week and a half. This could answer the question how good Patty Mills can make this team.
- Predictions are overrated. Butler moved to 6-0 and has showed no signs of slowing down after graduating five seniors last season. The Bulldogs kicked off their conference season last night, getting the toughest win in the league out of the way, nailing a buzzer beating three to win at Cleveland State. Cleveland St has been massively underacheiving, they are now 5-3 and are behind the proverbial 8-ball if Butler keeps playing like they know how. Butler shot 32% in the victory, as they slowed down the pace to a crawl, but forced the Vikings to play ugly, shooting 26% and 1-11 from three point range. If Cleveland State wants to even think about claiming the top spot from Butler in the Horizon things need to change before conference play gets going full force.
- Connecticut had looked real impressive in their seven victories to start the season; average margin of victory by 24 points per contest. The provocative thing was that the Huskies had not played a true road game until Thursday night, and boy did they get a rude awakening. Buffalo is a tough damn place to play, especially in the middle of December where there ain't much else to do except U Buffalo hoops and Bills football. Rodney Pierce got his game off for the Bulls, going for 28 and 10-19 from the field. Hasheem Thabeet was the player of the game though; Thabeet had 21 and 18 and combined with Jeff Adrien for eight blocks. The Bulls had a shot to tie the ballgame on the last possession but Pierce turned it over.
- Two years ago Wright State beat top 10 Butler twice and went to the NCAA Tournament after winning the Horizon league. This season Brad Brownell's squad has lost all leadership and to be honest talent. The Raiders are 0-5 after a 57-46 loss at home to Wisconsin Green Bay. Wright State gave up a 20-2 run late in the first half and mustered only three made threes on twenty attempts.
- Looks like we could have a title race in the Summit League this season rather than a simple Oral Roberts coronation. ORU traveled to Fargo last night and got beat by North Dakota State, as NDSU defended its homecourt to start the conference season. The Bison were picked second behind Oral in the Summit preseason poll, but ORU has struggled, going 1-5 in the non conference. North Dakota hasn't been much better, just 2-3, but last night was a huge home win that may indicate a time of change within the league. Guards Ben Woodside and Brent Winkelman combined for 44 points to lead NDSU.
- Blake Griffin was elbowed in the onions, but still managed to play his game and get 25 points and escape with a 73-72 victory over USC. The boys of Troy dropped to 5-3, and after two losses in Puerto Rico, Tim Floyd's squad is really struggling. The way they came out on the road and competed with a really good Oklahoma team. Daniel Hackett had 13 assists had showed Willie Warren a true point guard, as he helped Dwight Lewis get 25 points. The Sooners continue to move up the ranks, and show no signs of slowing down- although a true road test at Tulsa on Sunday should spark a little tenuous atmosphere.
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
The Daily Gus: December 2nd
November 18th could not be further away in Lynchburg. The Liberty Flames were featured on ESPN's 24 hour college basketball tip off bonanza fananza wahoo commercial for itself on that day when they traveled to UNC-Asheville. Its conference opener, Liberty got thumped by 28 in a humiliating display of basketball which made the highly touted recruiting class of Ritchie McKay extremely uneasy. Since then the Flames are burning the candle at both ends, scoring and locking up high mid majors and majors alike, going 4-0 with victories over William & Mary, Virginia and an excellent win at home Monday night over George Mason. Liberty hit 11 threes and went to overtime with Mason before Seth Curry, the younger bro of Davidson's Stephen Curry, hit a jumper with 40 seconds left to give LU the lead for good. Curry had 22 and held Mason shooter Dre Smith scoreless and big Darryl Monroe to 8 points for LU. Since winning four in a row, maybe the baby Flames are growing up a little early, and are starting to regain a home court swagger which will certainly help come Big South conference play. Things dont get any easier for Liberty, they match up against Depaul, Saint Louis and Clemson within the next two weeks, but if they can snag some victories there expectations are already exceeded in McKay's second season. On the other hand, Mason suffers its second loss to a low major after Hampton several weeks ago. They are now 5-2, but their glaring weaknesses in their non conference schedule is not helping their case for respect.
Shoot-Around
- Travon Hughes' game winning jumper with 0.9 seconds left lifted Wisconsin over Virginia Tech in the massively outdated ACC-Big Ten Challenge. Marcus Landry missed one shot for the badgers and had 18, but the show belonged to Va Tech guard A.D. Vassallo. Vassallo had 24 second half points and 30 overall as he completely led the way for Tech; big Jeff Allen looked miserable, two points and a foul out appearance. It was lucky for the Hokies to even be in the game due to Allen's play.
- San Francisco jumps out to a 12 point first half lead over a really underachieving USC team before allowing the Trojans to go on a run in the second half to seize the victory 74-69. The Trojans had 18 turnovers but relied on 26 from guard Dwight Lewis for the victory helping them rebound after losses to Seton Hall and Missouri in Puerto Rico. It could be a long night for Southern Cal on Thursday when they go into Norman.
- Ball State got a last second victory at IPFW Monday night, 54-52 to move to 4-2 on the season as Anthony Newell hit a game winner in Fort Wayne. Ball State has seven newcomers, and all of which have started out with fervor. After going 6-24 last season, Newell has given the team a swingman to rely on along with their inside presence. Purdue goes into Muncie next Tuesday for what could be a big time trap game.
- Mount St Mary's wins at city rival American for the first time in 43 years as Mountie Jeremy Goode went off for 29. Mount had two points with 8:30 left in the first half and all of a sudden the flood gates opened. Shooting just 38% the Mount managed to take care of the ball only turning it over seven times en route to the 57-52 victory. 14-18 from the line certainly did not hurt either. It was American's second home game and they hit the road for a five game road trip starting Saturday at cross town rival Georgetown. The Eagles are 4-3, and could be in a tenuous position if they keep squandering away late game leads. THe road trip does not look promising.
- Colgate is by no means a New England basketball force, but Syracuse may be finally back in a big way. The Orange jumped out to a 43-14 halftime lead and rested its starters for much of the second half, but they are now 7-0 and have yet to be tested including a great win over Kansas last week in the CBE. Paul Harris had 22 points in 21 minutes to drop the Raiders to 2-3. Now with victories over two ranked teams that are the last two national champions (Florida/Kansas) the Cuse look ahead to a December 20th date with Memphis in which they should be 11-0 and possibly in the top 15.
Shoot-Around
- Travon Hughes' game winning jumper with 0.9 seconds left lifted Wisconsin over Virginia Tech in the massively outdated ACC-Big Ten Challenge. Marcus Landry missed one shot for the badgers and had 18, but the show belonged to Va Tech guard A.D. Vassallo. Vassallo had 24 second half points and 30 overall as he completely led the way for Tech; big Jeff Allen looked miserable, two points and a foul out appearance. It was lucky for the Hokies to even be in the game due to Allen's play.
- San Francisco jumps out to a 12 point first half lead over a really underachieving USC team before allowing the Trojans to go on a run in the second half to seize the victory 74-69. The Trojans had 18 turnovers but relied on 26 from guard Dwight Lewis for the victory helping them rebound after losses to Seton Hall and Missouri in Puerto Rico. It could be a long night for Southern Cal on Thursday when they go into Norman.
- Ball State got a last second victory at IPFW Monday night, 54-52 to move to 4-2 on the season as Anthony Newell hit a game winner in Fort Wayne. Ball State has seven newcomers, and all of which have started out with fervor. After going 6-24 last season, Newell has given the team a swingman to rely on along with their inside presence. Purdue goes into Muncie next Tuesday for what could be a big time trap game.
- Mount St Mary's wins at city rival American for the first time in 43 years as Mountie Jeremy Goode went off for 29. Mount had two points with 8:30 left in the first half and all of a sudden the flood gates opened. Shooting just 38% the Mount managed to take care of the ball only turning it over seven times en route to the 57-52 victory. 14-18 from the line certainly did not hurt either. It was American's second home game and they hit the road for a five game road trip starting Saturday at cross town rival Georgetown. The Eagles are 4-3, and could be in a tenuous position if they keep squandering away late game leads. THe road trip does not look promising.
- Colgate is by no means a New England basketball force, but Syracuse may be finally back in a big way. The Orange jumped out to a 43-14 halftime lead and rested its starters for much of the second half, but they are now 7-0 and have yet to be tested including a great win over Kansas last week in the CBE. Paul Harris had 22 points in 21 minutes to drop the Raiders to 2-3. Now with victories over two ranked teams that are the last two national champions (Florida/Kansas) the Cuse look ahead to a December 20th date with Memphis in which they should be 11-0 and possibly in the top 15.
Sunday, November 30, 2008
The Daily Gus: November 29th
In reference to the hiatus suffered by MTM over the course of the past week, much apologies due to the lack of time available. Attirbute it to much schoolwork and MTM taking its show on the road to Cancun for the Cancun Challenge. The impending week of Thanksgiving is the best week of the season for action packed non conference matchups and this year has been no different led by the Old Spice Classic and the Maui Invitational. UNC waltzed away with the Maui title, and the Old Spice has featured four ranked teams (Georgetown, Tennessee, Gonzaga and Michigan State) all facing off. Saturday most teams returned to action from a brief Thanksgiving break. In the Chicago Classic (exempt tourney) Dayton moved to 6-0 shocking Marquette as guard Rob Lowery had 21 for the Flyers. The Dayton bench outscored Marquette 48-5, en route to a frenetic pace where they captured their second win over a BCS school in as many days. Although unbeaten, not much stock should be invested into the Flyers' 6-0 start as things will get tougher quick. Dayton plays at Akron and at Creighton in the next few games. Marquette on the other hand should be able to take improvement from this loss. Maybe not as much dependence should be lowered on Dominic James (6-13 for 19 points) and Wesley Mathews (7-12 for 28). 4 of 20 from threes will not get it done in the Big East, and certainly not an optimistic look facing their first team with a winning record; Marquette now moves on to face Wisconsin and Tennessee within the next two weeks.
Shoot-Around
- Ole Miss really struggled facing MEAC member Morgan State in Oxford. Morgan had a five point halftime lead and led for much of the second before the Rebels' Chris Warren and David Huertas combined for 47 points and an Ole Miss victory. Mississippi is now 5-1.
- Evidently VMI had a little bit of beginniners luck this season when they shocked Kentucky at Rupp Arena on the season's opening night. The Keydets couldn't throw the ball into the Potomac River last night; losing 95-67 to Jacksonville. VMI shot 7-34 from three (about 24 too many shots) and had no desire to even bother to play defense. They allowed J'Ville to shoot 61% and got absolutely rolled on the road.
- Texas A&M moved to 5-1 after a surprising win over Kent State 77-71 in the South Padre Island Invitational 3rd place game. Both teams shot over 50% and A&M placed four guys in double figures as a Josh Carter three ball with less than 10 seconds remaining put the game on ice.
- Northeastern guard Matt Janning scores three points as Northeastern gets rolled at South Florida 55-37. The Huskies had 11 first half points.
- Massachusetts dropped to a pathetic 1-5 Saturday when they led by two at UW-Green Bay before losing the second half 47-28. Things are not looking good in Amherst with Travis Ford gone.
- Nebraska reamined unbeaten as they scored a win over state rival Creighton 54-52. The Cornhuskers trailed by 13 at the break, but Steve Hartley had 14 second half points to spur on the comeback. It is only Nebraska's second win in ten seasons against the Jays.
- Freshman Seth, no not Stephen, Curry scored 21 points and played 50 minutes for Liberty as the Flames scraped out a two point win at William and Mary. It was W&M's second multiple overtime game in the week, as there were a combined 83 three pointers taken in the contest.
- Florida State moved to 7-0 on Saturday beating Cal in the Vegas Invitational; the Noles havent seen a 7-0 record since Charlie Ward was quarterbacking the club in the beginning ACC years. If FSU can keep up the pace, maybe a bottom four finish in the ACC won't be the probable.
- San Diego State cruised to the Great Alaska Shootout title as they romped Hampton 76-41. Hampton can take a positive outlook from this trip. A once big time tourney they defeated an unbeaten, really good Portland State team that will be playing come March and solidified themselves as a contender within the MEAC. The next step will be winning a true road game.
Shoot-Around
- Ole Miss really struggled facing MEAC member Morgan State in Oxford. Morgan had a five point halftime lead and led for much of the second before the Rebels' Chris Warren and David Huertas combined for 47 points and an Ole Miss victory. Mississippi is now 5-1.
- Evidently VMI had a little bit of beginniners luck this season when they shocked Kentucky at Rupp Arena on the season's opening night. The Keydets couldn't throw the ball into the Potomac River last night; losing 95-67 to Jacksonville. VMI shot 7-34 from three (about 24 too many shots) and had no desire to even bother to play defense. They allowed J'Ville to shoot 61% and got absolutely rolled on the road.
- Texas A&M moved to 5-1 after a surprising win over Kent State 77-71 in the South Padre Island Invitational 3rd place game. Both teams shot over 50% and A&M placed four guys in double figures as a Josh Carter three ball with less than 10 seconds remaining put the game on ice.
- Northeastern guard Matt Janning scores three points as Northeastern gets rolled at South Florida 55-37. The Huskies had 11 first half points.
- Massachusetts dropped to a pathetic 1-5 Saturday when they led by two at UW-Green Bay before losing the second half 47-28. Things are not looking good in Amherst with Travis Ford gone.
- Nebraska reamined unbeaten as they scored a win over state rival Creighton 54-52. The Cornhuskers trailed by 13 at the break, but Steve Hartley had 14 second half points to spur on the comeback. It is only Nebraska's second win in ten seasons against the Jays.
- Freshman Seth, no not Stephen, Curry scored 21 points and played 50 minutes for Liberty as the Flames scraped out a two point win at William and Mary. It was W&M's second multiple overtime game in the week, as there were a combined 83 three pointers taken in the contest.
- Florida State moved to 7-0 on Saturday beating Cal in the Vegas Invitational; the Noles havent seen a 7-0 record since Charlie Ward was quarterbacking the club in the beginning ACC years. If FSU can keep up the pace, maybe a bottom four finish in the ACC won't be the probable.
- San Diego State cruised to the Great Alaska Shootout title as they romped Hampton 76-41. Hampton can take a positive outlook from this trip. A once big time tourney they defeated an unbeaten, really good Portland State team that will be playing come March and solidified themselves as a contender within the MEAC. The next step will be winning a true road game.
Sunday, November 23, 2008
The Daily Gus: November 23rd
Saturday's game of the day took place in the unlikeliest of places: Williamsburg, Va. William and Mary took on Navy in what seemed to be a game of a pair of middling mid-majors who would not make any noise, but seemed to be an even contest. The 2,000 folks who decided to go out and watch the contest were treated to an outstanding triple overtime showdown where Navy escaped 102-99. Navy guard Chris Harris played all 55 minutes for the Midshipmen and scored 26 points on 6-18 shooting; all six field goals were treys. Harris was matched by forward Kaleo Kina who also had 26. William and Mary had two guys, Danny Sumner and David Schneider score over 30 points as both teams shot over 45%. Kina had ten points in triple overtime for the victory. Navy dropped the Tribe to 1-3 and moved to 3-1 and now have a workable schedule to possibly see some improvement from the past few years.
Quality road win for Kansas State on Saturday; they defeated Cleveland State 69-59 and placed four guys in double figures while holding the Vikings to just 36% shooting. Cleveland St has seemed extremely unimpressive in their last two outings against major schools, losing by 15 to Washington earlier this week. K-State closed the first half with a flurry to pad a lead and Cleveland State pulled to within three before bowing out quickly into the cold Ohio air. K-State is now 4-0 and has a real balanced scoring attack without Michael Beasley.
Shoot-Around
- Robert Vaden had 28 to spark a 15 point UAB victory in Norfolk against Old Dominion. The Blazers are exceeding early season expectations and can prepare for a date with Oklahoma Wednesday.
-Maybe Oklahoma was overlooking Gardner-Webb, but they almost fell victim to what happened to Kentucky a year ago. Blake Griffin had 35 and 21; the usual, to manage a Sooner victory.
-Heck of a finish by Creighton to beat Oral Roberts in a BracketBuster return game from last season in Omaha. The Jays outscored Oral 54-30 in the second half to blast what was a 2 point game at the break. Cavel Witter had 25 points in just 28 minutes to bust it open.
- Two ACC schools got tough road tests: Georgia tech escaping with an 82-76 win at a tough Mercer squad and Boston College dropped one 53-50 at Saint Louis. BC will not win if Tyrese Rice doesnt score; he had six points on 2-14 shooting.
Quality road win for Kansas State on Saturday; they defeated Cleveland State 69-59 and placed four guys in double figures while holding the Vikings to just 36% shooting. Cleveland St has seemed extremely unimpressive in their last two outings against major schools, losing by 15 to Washington earlier this week. K-State closed the first half with a flurry to pad a lead and Cleveland State pulled to within three before bowing out quickly into the cold Ohio air. K-State is now 4-0 and has a real balanced scoring attack without Michael Beasley.
Shoot-Around
- Robert Vaden had 28 to spark a 15 point UAB victory in Norfolk against Old Dominion. The Blazers are exceeding early season expectations and can prepare for a date with Oklahoma Wednesday.
-Maybe Oklahoma was overlooking Gardner-Webb, but they almost fell victim to what happened to Kentucky a year ago. Blake Griffin had 35 and 21; the usual, to manage a Sooner victory.
-Heck of a finish by Creighton to beat Oral Roberts in a BracketBuster return game from last season in Omaha. The Jays outscored Oral 54-30 in the second half to blast what was a 2 point game at the break. Cavel Witter had 25 points in just 28 minutes to bust it open.
- Two ACC schools got tough road tests: Georgia tech escaping with an 82-76 win at a tough Mercer squad and Boston College dropped one 53-50 at Saint Louis. BC will not win if Tyrese Rice doesnt score; he had six points on 2-14 shooting.
Saturday, November 22, 2008
The Daily Gus: November 22nd
Four years ago a star studded North Carolina team littered with talent at all five positions and a unanimous selection for preseason number one headed out to Hawaii for a jumpstart shot to the season in the Maui Invitational. There were rumblings of an undefeated season as they started out against tiny little Santa Clara as a pit stop on a Friday night before Maui. The Tar Heels were shocked, 77-66 with relative ease as Clara opened the eyes of the hoops nation. UNC went on to win the Maui the next week and ran off a 33-4 record with a national title. This time around, Carolina had a pit stop at Santa Barbara instead with a lesson learned and the return of Tyler Hansbrough helped UNC bring a little different result this time around. Hansbrough played 25 minutes and had 13 points (9-10 from the line) on just 2-8 shooting. I think a very important game for Hansbrough to get back in it and get his freshness back before he hits the islands. He will have his work cut out for him if he comes across Notre Dame forward Luke Harangody in the Maui final. Carolina sot 48% and forced 21 Gaucho turnovers, most certainly being the reason for an uptempo UNC team's victory. Ty Lawson paced UNC with 19 points as the Heels placed six players in double figures.
Dante Jackson threw up a half court prayer for Xavier Friday afternoon and nailed it as they took down Virginia Tech 63-62 in OT in the Puerto Rico Tip-Off. Derrick Brown had 16 points to lead XU, and they overcame Jeff Allen's 22 and 11 to snatch the victory right from under Va Tech. Best ending of the season to date to put Xavier to 4-0 and a possible date with Memphis in the tournament final.
Iona drives into Madison and takes Wisconsin all the way down to the wire and past it. The Badgers needed overtime to overcome the Gaels 60-58 led by Trevon Hughes' 21 points. ALways the achilles' heel for Wisconsin is their shooting and it was no different last night; 15-48 from the field for the game, 5 of 21 from three. For those counting at home thats a 31 % clip. They had 7 assists to 19 turnovers and managed to get to the line 19 more times than Iona. Yet, somehow, this game was just a two point nail biter for Bo Ryan. Hughes and Bohannon will not have many nights where they combine for 7-22 shooting, so it should not be too big of a worry.
Shoot-Around
- Sylven Landesberg scored 22 for Virginia as they narrowly escaped a huge home upset from Radford. The Highlanders had a two point halftime lead and put four in double figures but could not hold on, as Landesberg hit two free throws with 30 seconds left. UVA's big time scorer and playmaker, a freshman. Watch out in Charlottesville this season, March cannot come soon enough.
- Maryland was just playing with Vermont obviously, letting them think they could hang around at an ACC school's homecourt. The Terps were driven to overtime before going on a 17-2 overtime spurt to capture a "much harder than it looked" 15 point win.Grievis Vasquez paced Maryland with 26 on 8-19 shooting. Do not look for Maryland to have great success if Vasquez shoots 19 times a game. Marques Blakely had 23 for the Catamounts.
- Manny Harris had 25 for Michigan and was 11 of 12 from the line, but the Wolverines did not stop Gerald Henderson and Kyle Singler as Duke captured the 2k Sports title in NYC. The Wolverines hung around for the entire first half, but Duke blew it open in the second when Michigan wore down. Duke did what UCLA couldnt do; keep up the tempo and figure out the 1-3-1 zone from Michigan.
Dante Jackson threw up a half court prayer for Xavier Friday afternoon and nailed it as they took down Virginia Tech 63-62 in OT in the Puerto Rico Tip-Off. Derrick Brown had 16 points to lead XU, and they overcame Jeff Allen's 22 and 11 to snatch the victory right from under Va Tech. Best ending of the season to date to put Xavier to 4-0 and a possible date with Memphis in the tournament final.
Iona drives into Madison and takes Wisconsin all the way down to the wire and past it. The Badgers needed overtime to overcome the Gaels 60-58 led by Trevon Hughes' 21 points. ALways the achilles' heel for Wisconsin is their shooting and it was no different last night; 15-48 from the field for the game, 5 of 21 from three. For those counting at home thats a 31 % clip. They had 7 assists to 19 turnovers and managed to get to the line 19 more times than Iona. Yet, somehow, this game was just a two point nail biter for Bo Ryan. Hughes and Bohannon will not have many nights where they combine for 7-22 shooting, so it should not be too big of a worry.
Shoot-Around
- Sylven Landesberg scored 22 for Virginia as they narrowly escaped a huge home upset from Radford. The Highlanders had a two point halftime lead and put four in double figures but could not hold on, as Landesberg hit two free throws with 30 seconds left. UVA's big time scorer and playmaker, a freshman. Watch out in Charlottesville this season, March cannot come soon enough.
- Maryland was just playing with Vermont obviously, letting them think they could hang around at an ACC school's homecourt. The Terps were driven to overtime before going on a 17-2 overtime spurt to capture a "much harder than it looked" 15 point win.Grievis Vasquez paced Maryland with 26 on 8-19 shooting. Do not look for Maryland to have great success if Vasquez shoots 19 times a game. Marques Blakely had 23 for the Catamounts.
- Manny Harris had 25 for Michigan and was 11 of 12 from the line, but the Wolverines did not stop Gerald Henderson and Kyle Singler as Duke captured the 2k Sports title in NYC. The Wolverines hung around for the entire first half, but Duke blew it open in the second when Michigan wore down. Duke did what UCLA couldnt do; keep up the tempo and figure out the 1-3-1 zone from Michigan.
Friday, November 21, 2008
The Daily Gus: November 21st
Thursday night may have signified the true beginning of the college hoops regular season. Two top 25 teams (USC and UCLA nonetheless) went down to unranked teams marking the first of what promises to be an upset-filled season. The game of the night belonged to New York City as Michigan shocked UCLA 55-52 in the Coaches v. Cancer semifinals. Michigan will now move on to play Duke tonight in the final. Michigan moved to 3-0 with the victory and maybe John Beilein has began his second season at Michigan restoring the fervor with a huge, Lake Michigan size win over a top five UCLA team. Manny Harris scored 18 for the Wolverines, but UM got it done on the defensive end, holding UCLA to 42% shooting as Alfred Aboya and Josh Shipp only added a total of 10 points. Michigan was outrebounded 32-21 to the Bruins, but managed to get buckets when they needed to and more importantly they stopped Darren Collison from penetration and kick out to the bigs for 15-footers. This game was ugly from the get go which is why I don't put too much stock in the future for Michigan, I still think they do not have nearly enough scoring to contend in a lackluster Big Ten. However the more crucial look is to UCLA; the Bruins escaped at home in their quarterfinal win over Miami-Ohio 64-59 and now get completely contained by Michigan. If UCLA continues this struggle to score it could be a much more tumultuous season than Ben Howland envisioned even with the return of his big time point guard Collison.
USC blew a 15 point lead and only scored 18 points in the second half in the first round of the Puerto Rico Tip-Off as they fell to Seton Hall 63-61. USC's Taj GIbson went for 19 and 18 including ten offensive rebounds as he kept USC in it and relevant durin this game. The Trojans had 19 turnovers and really struggled to keep John Garcia off the glass. Garcia had 11 and 18 for the Hall on 5-9 from the field. Seton Hall, picked at the bottom of the Big East once again, showed a lot resiliency to battle back and lock up the Trojans to get this victory, ruining a potential exciting semi between USC and Memphis.
Funny story. A year ago (nearly to the day) a CAA favorite littered with young talent traveled to an in-state rival who was laying in the midst waiting for the opportunity to pounce on a higher mid-major who figured to come in and romp them away. The home crowd and referees got to them and a low-major without much talent raised their game to shock that contender and possibly ruin their at-large hopes. The low-major was Hampton and the favorite was VCU, as that loss haunted the Rams all season. Last night, Hampton used a 22-7 free throw advantage to shock young George Mason in their first true road test. Both teams shot under 40%, but Hampton had nine players score and Mason had four assists and 23 TURNOVERS! That attributes to the loss, but so ironic how similar the situations are; road openers are one of the more difficult things to predict in NCAA Basketball.
Shoot-Around:
- FSU got a charge call at the buzzer after blowing a 16-point halftime lead to Stetson to escape with a 79-77 home victory. Toney Douglas had 20 in the second half and a game high 26 on 9-16 to lead 3-0 Florida State.
- Memphis aint played anybody yet, but they look like they haven't missed a beat; placing four guys in double figures in a 83-71 cruise over Chattanooga. X-factor Robert not Curt Dozier went for 18, 8 and 4 on 6-8 shooting. If Dozier can finally meet expectations Memphis can get back in the top five easy.
- A big time low major win for North texas last night. The Mean Green invaded Sam Houston State, an incredibly difficult place to play, and escaped with a narrow 76-71 win. SHSU is real young, but littered with JUCO transfers and is real real athletic. North Texas could be a force in the Sun Belt this season and George Odufawa will be a force inside.
- A huge huge huge road win for Illinois last night at Vanderbilt. In what could be a win bigger than any one for the Fighting Illini last season, Demetri McCamey dropped 23 in another tough SEC venue. AJ Ogilvy had 13 points, and only six boards. He needs to step up and capture the void left by Shan Foster if Vandy hopes to return to the NCAA Tournament. The Illini invaded Nashville and slapped the Commodores in the face, giving Vandy a rare non-conference home loss.
- Xavier looked impressive, but so did Mike Anderson's Missouri club, as the Muskies won 75-71. I think both squads will be better than most think, although X is picked to win the A-10 anyway. Missouri on the other hand selected to be at the bottom of the league has alot of depth and athleticism as they forced 20 Xavier turnovers. The glass was the difference as XU outrebounded Mizzou 39-24.
USC blew a 15 point lead and only scored 18 points in the second half in the first round of the Puerto Rico Tip-Off as they fell to Seton Hall 63-61. USC's Taj GIbson went for 19 and 18 including ten offensive rebounds as he kept USC in it and relevant durin this game. The Trojans had 19 turnovers and really struggled to keep John Garcia off the glass. Garcia had 11 and 18 for the Hall on 5-9 from the field. Seton Hall, picked at the bottom of the Big East once again, showed a lot resiliency to battle back and lock up the Trojans to get this victory, ruining a potential exciting semi between USC and Memphis.
Funny story. A year ago (nearly to the day) a CAA favorite littered with young talent traveled to an in-state rival who was laying in the midst waiting for the opportunity to pounce on a higher mid-major who figured to come in and romp them away. The home crowd and referees got to them and a low-major without much talent raised their game to shock that contender and possibly ruin their at-large hopes. The low-major was Hampton and the favorite was VCU, as that loss haunted the Rams all season. Last night, Hampton used a 22-7 free throw advantage to shock young George Mason in their first true road test. Both teams shot under 40%, but Hampton had nine players score and Mason had four assists and 23 TURNOVERS! That attributes to the loss, but so ironic how similar the situations are; road openers are one of the more difficult things to predict in NCAA Basketball.
Shoot-Around:
- FSU got a charge call at the buzzer after blowing a 16-point halftime lead to Stetson to escape with a 79-77 home victory. Toney Douglas had 20 in the second half and a game high 26 on 9-16 to lead 3-0 Florida State.
- Memphis aint played anybody yet, but they look like they haven't missed a beat; placing four guys in double figures in a 83-71 cruise over Chattanooga. X-factor Robert not Curt Dozier went for 18, 8 and 4 on 6-8 shooting. If Dozier can finally meet expectations Memphis can get back in the top five easy.
- A big time low major win for North texas last night. The Mean Green invaded Sam Houston State, an incredibly difficult place to play, and escaped with a narrow 76-71 win. SHSU is real young, but littered with JUCO transfers and is real real athletic. North Texas could be a force in the Sun Belt this season and George Odufawa will be a force inside.
- A huge huge huge road win for Illinois last night at Vanderbilt. In what could be a win bigger than any one for the Fighting Illini last season, Demetri McCamey dropped 23 in another tough SEC venue. AJ Ogilvy had 13 points, and only six boards. He needs to step up and capture the void left by Shan Foster if Vandy hopes to return to the NCAA Tournament. The Illini invaded Nashville and slapped the Commodores in the face, giving Vandy a rare non-conference home loss.
- Xavier looked impressive, but so did Mike Anderson's Missouri club, as the Muskies won 75-71. I think both squads will be better than most think, although X is picked to win the A-10 anyway. Missouri on the other hand selected to be at the bottom of the league has alot of depth and athleticism as they forced 20 Xavier turnovers. The glass was the difference as XU outrebounded Mizzou 39-24.
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
The Daily Gus: November 20th
In what was a pretty uneventful night around the nation for action-packed close games, the Look-Ahead game of the day certainly did not disappoint. Kent State and St. Lou went at it for 40 minutes and it was not enough to determine which side had the more manly men. After regulation ended the score was knotted up at 60-60, and then Kent State's 6-1 senior guard Al Fisher got his game off. Fisher had 16 of his team's last 17 points as he placed them on his back and took them to a big time road win for Kent State. Fisher put it up 35 times over the course of the game and played 39 minutes. Saint Lou's Kevin Lisch logged 42 minutes and had 22 in the losing effort. If anything can be pointed to as a reason for the Billiken defeat, look at the turnover column. Majerus' club had 18 TO's, including five by point guard Mitchell. An inexcusable amount by a Majerus team that is normally considered the most disciplined teams in the country. This is certainly a building block for St. Louis however; they went to an extra session with a real good ballclub that was far superior talent-wise.
That wasn't exactly the plan for Michigan State when they scheduled a game at IPFW (Indiana-Purdue-Ft. Wayne) in the offseason. The Spartans really struggled, and to an extent probably well warranted, it being the first road game for a real young Michigan State team. Team has alot of talent and they certainly overlooked IPFW in this one with good reason. Raymar Morgan had 22 for Michigan State, who trailed three times in the second half. IPFW slowed down the pace to a near crawl where they were able to take advantage of Spartan impatience. Luckily for Michigan State, IPFW featured zero depth after only three scorers had more than six points. IPFW head coach Dane Fife was a throwback player to the Mike Davis led Indiana squad that made the title game and lost to Maryland in 2002.
So long to the prestige and impressiveness of the Wichita State Wheatshocker program. The Shockers are far far away from the days of Mark Turgeon and that Sweet 16 appearance in 2006 after dropping one to UMKC at home Wednesday night. Ta-State finished dead last in the Valley last season, and show no sins of improvement in a deeper, more talented league this year. A tight game throughout, Wichita just would not have lost this game three years ago with their homecourt. They have somehow become inferior talent-wise and that is the reason they will struggle again in the MVC. This is a new low however; losing to a Missouri foe who has not even been on the local map in years.
Shoot-Around:
- Somebody tell UNCW coach Benny Moss to play defense. Please. 120-88 loss to Wake. Long year in Wilmington if that doesn't change.
- VCU gives up nine threes to South Dakota State in preparation to defend Jimmy Baron on Saturday in Kingston. Not a good omen. But they do have Eric Maynor (29 points on 11-19).
- American stretched out an early lead to ten against local foe Howard before squandering all of it in the last four minutes. The Eagles win by two, a surprising result after they got throttled by Oklahoma last week.
- Appalachian State had four guys go 40+ minutes in an 87-84 double overtime thriller with Charlotte. Mountaineer Isaac Butts went for 15 and 17 in the victory. Charlotte a hard-luck loser for the second straight time out, those 19 turnovers don't help much.
- UVA shoots 16 more free throws than South Florida at home to escape with a 77-75 victory. The Bulls shot 49% from the field but were completely negated by the Cavaliers uncanny ability to get to the line. South Florida placed two guys with over 20 points, but could not close the deal in Charlottesville.
- Nebraska used ten guys with ten plus minutes to wear down TCU and knock them down early. The Huskers led by 12 at half and dominated the entire way, winning 62-50. Nine players scored for Nebraska.
- Maybe Mercer should contemplate joining the SEC. After ruining the return of Ronald Steele in Tuscaloosa Sunday, the Bears beat Auburn 78-74 in Auburn. James Florence of Mercer had 25 in the win as Mercer completely dismantled Auburn on the glass, 46-21. Mercer looks to be a force in the A-Sun, they get Georgia Tech at home on Saturday.
That wasn't exactly the plan for Michigan State when they scheduled a game at IPFW (Indiana-Purdue-Ft. Wayne) in the offseason. The Spartans really struggled, and to an extent probably well warranted, it being the first road game for a real young Michigan State team. Team has alot of talent and they certainly overlooked IPFW in this one with good reason. Raymar Morgan had 22 for Michigan State, who trailed three times in the second half. IPFW slowed down the pace to a near crawl where they were able to take advantage of Spartan impatience. Luckily for Michigan State, IPFW featured zero depth after only three scorers had more than six points. IPFW head coach Dane Fife was a throwback player to the Mike Davis led Indiana squad that made the title game and lost to Maryland in 2002.
So long to the prestige and impressiveness of the Wichita State Wheatshocker program. The Shockers are far far away from the days of Mark Turgeon and that Sweet 16 appearance in 2006 after dropping one to UMKC at home Wednesday night. Ta-State finished dead last in the Valley last season, and show no sins of improvement in a deeper, more talented league this year. A tight game throughout, Wichita just would not have lost this game three years ago with their homecourt. They have somehow become inferior talent-wise and that is the reason they will struggle again in the MVC. This is a new low however; losing to a Missouri foe who has not even been on the local map in years.
Shoot-Around:
- Somebody tell UNCW coach Benny Moss to play defense. Please. 120-88 loss to Wake. Long year in Wilmington if that doesn't change.
- VCU gives up nine threes to South Dakota State in preparation to defend Jimmy Baron on Saturday in Kingston. Not a good omen. But they do have Eric Maynor (29 points on 11-19).
- American stretched out an early lead to ten against local foe Howard before squandering all of it in the last four minutes. The Eagles win by two, a surprising result after they got throttled by Oklahoma last week.
- Appalachian State had four guys go 40+ minutes in an 87-84 double overtime thriller with Charlotte. Mountaineer Isaac Butts went for 15 and 17 in the victory. Charlotte a hard-luck loser for the second straight time out, those 19 turnovers don't help much.
- UVA shoots 16 more free throws than South Florida at home to escape with a 77-75 victory. The Bulls shot 49% from the field but were completely negated by the Cavaliers uncanny ability to get to the line. South Florida placed two guys with over 20 points, but could not close the deal in Charlottesville.
- Nebraska used ten guys with ten plus minutes to wear down TCU and knock them down early. The Huskers led by 12 at half and dominated the entire way, winning 62-50. Nine players scored for Nebraska.
- Maybe Mercer should contemplate joining the SEC. After ruining the return of Ronald Steele in Tuscaloosa Sunday, the Bears beat Auburn 78-74 in Auburn. James Florence of Mercer had 25 in the win as Mercer completely dismantled Auburn on the glass, 46-21. Mercer looks to be a force in the A-Sun, they get Georgia Tech at home on Saturday.
The Look-Ahead: November 19th
KENT STATE @ SAINT LOUIS
8:00 P.M
Line: Kent State by 1.5
Rick Majerus is trying to change the mentality of Saint Louis basketball after his first season at the head man for the Billikens. Saint Louis had a putred offense last season, just absolutely terrible scoring 20 points in one FULL game against George Washington. This year the Billikens started out not much better; a 48-33 win over D-II Missouri St.Louis. At least the Billikens can defend and they do have a guard that can create offense, so there is optimism. Kwamain Mitchell had 16 in the opener including six assists for his first ever NCAA game. St. Louis opened its brand new on campus arena after playing their games at the Savvis Center (home of the St.Louis Blues) for the past decade. Majerus will need to contend with three outstanding guards returning for Kent State and a brand new coach, longtime assistant Geno Ford. The Golden Flashes have no experience inside, throwing out a redshirt freshman and four true freshmen.
The Pick: Saint Louis will certainly keep this game close due to their home court and the fresh ability of their guards to defend. Unfortunately Saint Louis is just not deep enough on the perimeter to contain Al Fisher and Chris Singletary. Expect both of these guys to score in high teens and be able to get in the paint and finish against the lack of St. Louis size. With that said, if Mitchell can increase his assist and point output that he showed in the opener, and can get the bigs involved early to attack Kent State's youth and inexperience inside Majerus' club has a shot. Kent State holds on in a tight one, 68-61
Keep an eye on:
- UNCW @ (20) Wake Forest: Can Chad Tomko stay lights out and give his energetic club a shot in Winston-Salem?
- Ball State @ Butler: Ball State could be a surprise in the MAC this season, and this game will be a good barometer to see how well they have improved and if Butler has anything left in the tank.
-Charlotte @ Appalachian State: The 49ers were hard luck losers at home to Old Dominion Sunday, and need this game badly. So do the Mountaineers; Appie State dropped their opener last Friday to Wilmington in overtime.
-Murray State @ Arkansas State: Murray faces a tough road opener as John Brady's Ark State went to Ole Miss and hung in there early before fading off and losing by 13. Brady was the coach at LSU for the Glen Davis and Tyrus Thomas days. Murray is OVC favorites, as always and should be able to squeak one out.
8:00 P.M
Line: Kent State by 1.5
Rick Majerus is trying to change the mentality of Saint Louis basketball after his first season at the head man for the Billikens. Saint Louis had a putred offense last season, just absolutely terrible scoring 20 points in one FULL game against George Washington. This year the Billikens started out not much better; a 48-33 win over D-II Missouri St.Louis. At least the Billikens can defend and they do have a guard that can create offense, so there is optimism. Kwamain Mitchell had 16 in the opener including six assists for his first ever NCAA game. St. Louis opened its brand new on campus arena after playing their games at the Savvis Center (home of the St.Louis Blues) for the past decade. Majerus will need to contend with three outstanding guards returning for Kent State and a brand new coach, longtime assistant Geno Ford. The Golden Flashes have no experience inside, throwing out a redshirt freshman and four true freshmen.
The Pick: Saint Louis will certainly keep this game close due to their home court and the fresh ability of their guards to defend. Unfortunately Saint Louis is just not deep enough on the perimeter to contain Al Fisher and Chris Singletary. Expect both of these guys to score in high teens and be able to get in the paint and finish against the lack of St. Louis size. With that said, if Mitchell can increase his assist and point output that he showed in the opener, and can get the bigs involved early to attack Kent State's youth and inexperience inside Majerus' club has a shot. Kent State holds on in a tight one, 68-61
Keep an eye on:
- UNCW @ (20) Wake Forest: Can Chad Tomko stay lights out and give his energetic club a shot in Winston-Salem?
- Ball State @ Butler: Ball State could be a surprise in the MAC this season, and this game will be a good barometer to see how well they have improved and if Butler has anything left in the tank.
-Charlotte @ Appalachian State: The 49ers were hard luck losers at home to Old Dominion Sunday, and need this game badly. So do the Mountaineers; Appie State dropped their opener last Friday to Wilmington in overtime.
-Murray State @ Arkansas State: Murray faces a tough road opener as John Brady's Ark State went to Ole Miss and hung in there early before fading off and losing by 13. Brady was the coach at LSU for the Glen Davis and Tyrus Thomas days. Murray is OVC favorites, as always and should be able to squeak one out.
The Daily Gus: November 19th
For all those who figured it was a forgone conclusion for North Carolina's Tyler Hansbrough to waltz away with the national player of the year you better watch some other games. Last night an absolute show was put on by Davidson's Stephen Curry and Oklahoma's Blake Griffin. Griffin went for 25 and 21 (did have six turnovers!) and completely dominated the glass and paint all game long. Curry struggled from the field for him going 12-29 but managed to drain six treys and mustered a heck of a comeback after the Wildcats were down 16 at one point in the second half. Last night was Griffin's third straight 20+ point and 15+ rebound output game since the season began. If both of these guys continue to play like this, they will be forces all season long. Without question the best game of the year so far.
UAB came out ready to rock and roll after a shaky performance against Santa Clara Monday night when they snatched a 64-61 victory in Tucson. Last night Robert Vaden went for 20 and UAB built up a ten point halftime lead before holding on to a one point victory down the stretch over Arizona. 'Zona has some problems right now; Chase Budinger seems to be the only scoring option; he went for 27 on 9-17 from the floor, and they are certainly struggling without Lute Olsen at the helm. A big boost for Mike Davis' athletic team though, and they will now have an opportunity in NYC to get some national recognition in the NIT semis when they face Oklahoma on Nov. 26.
Arizona State got a true road test Tuesday night when they headed to San Diego State, and narrowly escaped with a 59-52 win where they trailed much of the second half. James Harden went for 18 on 7-11 shooting and the Sun Devils shot an astounding 57%. Herb Sendek wants to really slow the game down and maximize possessions, so they will certainly let opponents stick around. Arizona State will not do it pretty this season, but with Harden and their defense, they are a force. Tremendous early win.
Shoot-Around
-Hats off to A-10 cellar-dweller Richmond; the Spiders led Syracuse at the break by seven before letting Jonny Flynn and Eric Devendorf go off for 27 and 22. Things are looking brighter by the day for UR, and maybe 'Cuse ain't as smooth as we thought with Flynn a year older and Devendorf back.
-Maybe BYU can get back to prominence in the Mountain West after all. Or Pepperdine should drop their basketball program. The Cougars smashed the Waves by 29 in Malibu Monday night. Things are not so fine at the 'Dine; they lost 21 games a year ago and now have lost their first two games to D-I opponents. BYU's Lee Cummard on the other hand looks to be continuing his success. He's the defending MWest co-player of the year and he is averaging 24.5 in his first two.
-America East favorites Boston U. overcame a 12-point halftime deficit to snag a victory over perennial Patriot contender Bucknell. The Terriers are depending heavily on Corey Lowe to shoulder the scoring and minute load. He played all 40 minutes and dropped 19 points. The Terriers dropped their opener to GW, so this win should help them get on track.
-Boston College will go as far as senior guard Tyrese Rice will carry them. Rice went for 28 last night against St. John's and BC pulled away late for an 82-70 win. Rice played all 40 minutes, had nine assists and went 8 of 12 from the floor. Sounds like first-team all-ACC numbers to me.
UAB came out ready to rock and roll after a shaky performance against Santa Clara Monday night when they snatched a 64-61 victory in Tucson. Last night Robert Vaden went for 20 and UAB built up a ten point halftime lead before holding on to a one point victory down the stretch over Arizona. 'Zona has some problems right now; Chase Budinger seems to be the only scoring option; he went for 27 on 9-17 from the floor, and they are certainly struggling without Lute Olsen at the helm. A big boost for Mike Davis' athletic team though, and they will now have an opportunity in NYC to get some national recognition in the NIT semis when they face Oklahoma on Nov. 26.
Arizona State got a true road test Tuesday night when they headed to San Diego State, and narrowly escaped with a 59-52 win where they trailed much of the second half. James Harden went for 18 on 7-11 shooting and the Sun Devils shot an astounding 57%. Herb Sendek wants to really slow the game down and maximize possessions, so they will certainly let opponents stick around. Arizona State will not do it pretty this season, but with Harden and their defense, they are a force. Tremendous early win.
Shoot-Around
-Hats off to A-10 cellar-dweller Richmond; the Spiders led Syracuse at the break by seven before letting Jonny Flynn and Eric Devendorf go off for 27 and 22. Things are looking brighter by the day for UR, and maybe 'Cuse ain't as smooth as we thought with Flynn a year older and Devendorf back.
-Maybe BYU can get back to prominence in the Mountain West after all. Or Pepperdine should drop their basketball program. The Cougars smashed the Waves by 29 in Malibu Monday night. Things are not so fine at the 'Dine; they lost 21 games a year ago and now have lost their first two games to D-I opponents. BYU's Lee Cummard on the other hand looks to be continuing his success. He's the defending MWest co-player of the year and he is averaging 24.5 in his first two.
-America East favorites Boston U. overcame a 12-point halftime deficit to snag a victory over perennial Patriot contender Bucknell. The Terriers are depending heavily on Corey Lowe to shoulder the scoring and minute load. He played all 40 minutes and dropped 19 points. The Terriers dropped their opener to GW, so this win should help them get on track.
-Boston College will go as far as senior guard Tyrese Rice will carry them. Rice went for 28 last night against St. John's and BC pulled away late for an 82-70 win. Rice played all 40 minutes, had nine assists and went 8 of 12 from the floor. Sounds like first-team all-ACC numbers to me.
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
The Look-Ahead: November 18th
The Look-Ahead feature previews the night's top game (games on special occassions) and provides insight and a prediction on the contest with the most national impact or a game that I just want to rant about.
(21) DAVIDSON at (12) OKLAHOMA
9:30 PM, ESPN2
Line: Oklahoma by 3
- Two All-Americans on the floor at the same time in an early season showdown to see who goes to NYC for the Preseason NIT semis. Oklahoma forward Blake Griffin has been unbelieveable in two games in Norman. Griffin is averaging 22 and 19 in the two Sooner victories over teams who could not sustain his power for 40 minutes. Davidson's Stephen Curry is averaging 31 points and 10 assists in his previous two games. Both players deserve to be in the mix for national POY, and both will be featured come March. Curry should be able to penetrate into the lane tonight against an inexperienced Sooner backcourt. If Curry can get into the lane enough he will be able to find shooters in open gaps and Davidson can hang around. The problem Davidson faces is matching up with Griffin. The ball should go through Griffin once a possession to attract double teams and create space for the Sooner guards to utilize their athleticism. Davidson will be rolling out a front line of 6'8 and 6'7 while Griffin's 6'10, 250 frame will be waiting on the block of the Lloyd Noble Center.
The pick: Griffin should have no problem going for 25 and 10 here, and while Curry should spring for 25+ again I just don't see Davidson being able to maintain power against Oklahoma's size for the entire game. A real entertaining watch here, but the Sooners get it done 72-65.
Keep an eye on:
- TN-Martin @ Tennessee; Lester Hudson gets his first stab at the big stage, and I wouldn't be surprised if he goes for 30 and keeps Martin in the game awhile. UT's athleticism should keep the Vols on track though.
- St. John's @ Boston College; Tyrese Rice in his final go-round with the Eagles will need to bring it to the table after the Johnnies showed a little bit of life in destroying Cornell Monday night.
- Kentucky @ North Carolina; All those VMI memories will be a distant fade if Billy Gillespie can muster up a win over North Carolina. I wouldn't urge Lexington to get their hopes up.
- South Alabama @ Mississippi; How much do the Jaguars miss Daon Merritt in the backcourt? We'll be able to tell tonight in a tough road test that helped team USA boost their resume last season.
(21) DAVIDSON at (12) OKLAHOMA
9:30 PM, ESPN2
Line: Oklahoma by 3
- Two All-Americans on the floor at the same time in an early season showdown to see who goes to NYC for the Preseason NIT semis. Oklahoma forward Blake Griffin has been unbelieveable in two games in Norman. Griffin is averaging 22 and 19 in the two Sooner victories over teams who could not sustain his power for 40 minutes. Davidson's Stephen Curry is averaging 31 points and 10 assists in his previous two games. Both players deserve to be in the mix for national POY, and both will be featured come March. Curry should be able to penetrate into the lane tonight against an inexperienced Sooner backcourt. If Curry can get into the lane enough he will be able to find shooters in open gaps and Davidson can hang around. The problem Davidson faces is matching up with Griffin. The ball should go through Griffin once a possession to attract double teams and create space for the Sooner guards to utilize their athleticism. Davidson will be rolling out a front line of 6'8 and 6'7 while Griffin's 6'10, 250 frame will be waiting on the block of the Lloyd Noble Center.
The pick: Griffin should have no problem going for 25 and 10 here, and while Curry should spring for 25+ again I just don't see Davidson being able to maintain power against Oklahoma's size for the entire game. A real entertaining watch here, but the Sooners get it done 72-65.
Keep an eye on:
- TN-Martin @ Tennessee; Lester Hudson gets his first stab at the big stage, and I wouldn't be surprised if he goes for 30 and keeps Martin in the game awhile. UT's athleticism should keep the Vols on track though.
- St. John's @ Boston College; Tyrese Rice in his final go-round with the Eagles will need to bring it to the table after the Johnnies showed a little bit of life in destroying Cornell Monday night.
- Kentucky @ North Carolina; All those VMI memories will be a distant fade if Billy Gillespie can muster up a win over North Carolina. I wouldn't urge Lexington to get their hopes up.
- South Alabama @ Mississippi; How much do the Jaguars miss Daon Merritt in the backcourt? We'll be able to tell tonight in a tough road test that helped team USA boost their resume last season.
The Daily Gus: November 18
So maybe all Davidson needs is Stephen Curry. Curry who dazzled in the scoring column the past two seasons has had to assume the point guard role as Bob McKillop's team tries to become a perennial powerhouse. Many analysts believed Curry would struggle to score from the point and as a result Davidson would struggle a little more this season with not as powerful of a supporting cast around the 6'3 junior. Curry went off for 33 last night on 14-19 shooting, basically an average walk in the park. The hidden statistics: nine assists and four steals. Curry is attracting so much attention on defense he is able to penetrate and kick to the outside shooters, creating offense even without scoring. The Wild cats throttled James Madison Monday night 99-64, and they are well in tune with what they are capable of.
Shootaround
- What's in the water in Wilmington? Chad Tomko goes for 30+ in his second straight game as UNC-Dub beats Troy 107-95. This Wilmington team will up the tempo on anybody, and it looks like they have an adequate replacement for T.J. Carter.
- Virginia Tech down at halftime at home to Mount St. Mary's before squeaking one out in Blacksburg. The Mount was picked near the bottom of the NEC and managed to force 20 Hokie turnovers. Virginia tech shot 19 more free throws than the Mount, and managed to escape with a 62-57 victory. Not a good sign of things to come for a promising young team; Jeff allen and A.D. Vassallo had 15 and 13 respectively.
- Real impressed with Purdue last night. Purdue point guard Robbie Hummel can play the game, an easy 18 points, four assist output and one turnover. An easy win over Eastern Michigan 87-58 was a given, but it was the way the patient Boilermaker team did it with 19 assists and nine turnovers. 2:1 Assist-turnover ratio is a team is impressive.
- Shocker of the Day: Austin Peay wins in Nashville against Belmont. Belmont assumes to be at the top of the A-Sun for the third straight year and ahd a 14-point halftime lead on the Govenators. Drake Reed and Wes Channels went for 24 and 25 respectively to come back and thwart the Bruins in an uptempo affair. Austin Peay could have an impressive 1-2 punch in the OVC once January comes around.
Shootaround
- What's in the water in Wilmington? Chad Tomko goes for 30+ in his second straight game as UNC-Dub beats Troy 107-95. This Wilmington team will up the tempo on anybody, and it looks like they have an adequate replacement for T.J. Carter.
- Virginia Tech down at halftime at home to Mount St. Mary's before squeaking one out in Blacksburg. The Mount was picked near the bottom of the NEC and managed to force 20 Hokie turnovers. Virginia tech shot 19 more free throws than the Mount, and managed to escape with a 62-57 victory. Not a good sign of things to come for a promising young team; Jeff allen and A.D. Vassallo had 15 and 13 respectively.
- Real impressed with Purdue last night. Purdue point guard Robbie Hummel can play the game, an easy 18 points, four assist output and one turnover. An easy win over Eastern Michigan 87-58 was a given, but it was the way the patient Boilermaker team did it with 19 assists and nine turnovers. 2:1 Assist-turnover ratio is a team is impressive.
- Shocker of the Day: Austin Peay wins in Nashville against Belmont. Belmont assumes to be at the top of the A-Sun for the third straight year and ahd a 14-point halftime lead on the Govenators. Drake Reed and Wes Channels went for 24 and 25 respectively to come back and thwart the Bruins in an uptempo affair. Austin Peay could have an impressive 1-2 punch in the OVC once January comes around.
Monday, November 17, 2008
The Daily Gus: November 17th
Well we're in it. The season has kicked off for the majority of division I programs and it began with a surprising weekend.
- Virginia Military Institute waltzed into Lexington, Kentucky and obviously thought it was still in Lexington, Va. VMI led Kentucky by 23 with 14 minutes left and held on for a 111-103 victory after Travis Holmes went off for 30. Billy Gillespie must certainly already feel the crush from Ashley Judd and the like because the fans in Rupp Arena will not stand for back to back season home opening losses. At least Kentucky came storming back from the deficit, but someone needs to tell Patrick Patterson to show up and start playing. The sophomore finished with eight points and seven rebounds in just 27 minutes. Looks like Kentucky may be relying on Jodie Meeks this season, the junior had 39 points on 27 attempts from the field. The Keydets nailed 14 treys on 31 attempts as they upped the tempo on Kentucky, and punched them right in the jaw. VMI subsequently came back and nearly defeated ACC foe Virginia on Sunday.
- Friday night was littered with high majors blasting D-II and NAIA squads, but one game did jump out. Appalachian State went into Trask Coliseum (a pit) in Wilmington and jumped out to a 14 point halftime lead against a young rebuilding UNC-Wilmington team. The Seahawks came storming back to force the game into overtime which they later won 108-101. Sophomore Seahawk Chad Tomko had 27 points including a deep trey with 20 seconds left to force OT. A crippling road loss but certainly optimism for Appie State, as they get ready to host an 0-1 Charlotte team Wednesday.
- Saturday I gave much credit to Florida State. The 'Noles went and played at Atlantic Sun competitor Jacksonville AND got a victory 59-57. Florida State is not assumed to be in the mix of the ACC and either is J-ville in the A-Sun, but a high-major going into a low major's domicile deserves a little bit of recognition. It won't happen more than ten times this season.
- Portland takes a win over Pac-10 foe Washington in the opening weekend, 80-74. The Pilots have some promise this season, they graduated nobody from a team that led both Gonzaga and St. Mary in the second half last season. A young team slowly gaining experience will be helped mentally with a big win over a BCS school.
- So maybe expectations are too high at Providence. The Friars could not hold home court against Northeastern Saturday as they lost 70-66; Northeastern is no slouch, but scorer Mart Janning had 24 points on 10-14 in the Dunkin Donuts Center. Keno Davis didn't suffer his first loss last season until the turn of the year at Drake.
- UNLV with a huge home win over San Diego in a middy showdown on the first weekend of the season. Both of these teams should have amazing seasons in their upper eschalant mid major leagues; The Rebs were helped by 19 Torero turnovers and although Wink Adams struggled offensively, UNLV locked up and got the win 65-60.
- Sunday provided us with the DOOKIES against a hugely underrated Rhode Island team. Evident by this game (23 point underdogs!) Jimmy Baron has the Rams back where they could make noise in the A-10. Baron went 8-9 from distance and had URI up three in Cameron Indoor with more than a minute left. Kyle Sinlger knocked down four free throws and Duke escapes much to the delight of the ACC officiating crew. Coach K's squad shot 32 free throws to URI's 16. For now, I give Duke a reprieve for their forgetfulness to show up, but don't get used to it.
- Virginia Military Institute waltzed into Lexington, Kentucky and obviously thought it was still in Lexington, Va. VMI led Kentucky by 23 with 14 minutes left and held on for a 111-103 victory after Travis Holmes went off for 30. Billy Gillespie must certainly already feel the crush from Ashley Judd and the like because the fans in Rupp Arena will not stand for back to back season home opening losses. At least Kentucky came storming back from the deficit, but someone needs to tell Patrick Patterson to show up and start playing. The sophomore finished with eight points and seven rebounds in just 27 minutes. Looks like Kentucky may be relying on Jodie Meeks this season, the junior had 39 points on 27 attempts from the field. The Keydets nailed 14 treys on 31 attempts as they upped the tempo on Kentucky, and punched them right in the jaw. VMI subsequently came back and nearly defeated ACC foe Virginia on Sunday.
- Friday night was littered with high majors blasting D-II and NAIA squads, but one game did jump out. Appalachian State went into Trask Coliseum (a pit) in Wilmington and jumped out to a 14 point halftime lead against a young rebuilding UNC-Wilmington team. The Seahawks came storming back to force the game into overtime which they later won 108-101. Sophomore Seahawk Chad Tomko had 27 points including a deep trey with 20 seconds left to force OT. A crippling road loss but certainly optimism for Appie State, as they get ready to host an 0-1 Charlotte team Wednesday.
- Saturday I gave much credit to Florida State. The 'Noles went and played at Atlantic Sun competitor Jacksonville AND got a victory 59-57. Florida State is not assumed to be in the mix of the ACC and either is J-ville in the A-Sun, but a high-major going into a low major's domicile deserves a little bit of recognition. It won't happen more than ten times this season.
- Portland takes a win over Pac-10 foe Washington in the opening weekend, 80-74. The Pilots have some promise this season, they graduated nobody from a team that led both Gonzaga and St. Mary in the second half last season. A young team slowly gaining experience will be helped mentally with a big win over a BCS school.
- So maybe expectations are too high at Providence. The Friars could not hold home court against Northeastern Saturday as they lost 70-66; Northeastern is no slouch, but scorer Mart Janning had 24 points on 10-14 in the Dunkin Donuts Center. Keno Davis didn't suffer his first loss last season until the turn of the year at Drake.
- UNLV with a huge home win over San Diego in a middy showdown on the first weekend of the season. Both of these teams should have amazing seasons in their upper eschalant mid major leagues; The Rebs were helped by 19 Torero turnovers and although Wink Adams struggled offensively, UNLV locked up and got the win 65-60.
- Sunday provided us with the DOOKIES against a hugely underrated Rhode Island team. Evident by this game (23 point underdogs!) Jimmy Baron has the Rams back where they could make noise in the A-10. Baron went 8-9 from distance and had URI up three in Cameron Indoor with more than a minute left. Kyle Sinlger knocked down four free throws and Duke escapes much to the delight of the ACC officiating crew. Coach K's squad shot 32 free throws to URI's 16. For now, I give Duke a reprieve for their forgetfulness to show up, but don't get used to it.
Origin of The Gus
My immediate, knee-jerk reactions will be simulcasted as often as possible from the previous nights games which I refer to as "The Daily Gus" named appropriately after my role model and hero, CBS broadcaster Gus Johnson. Johnson has famously called some of my most memorable college basketball moments, including UCLA's comeback over Gonzaga in the 2005 NCAA Tournament, Adam Morrison's game winning three pointer against Oklahoma State in the same season, Ohio State's Ron Lewis "firing" a huge three over Xavier in the 2007 second round. The greatest of all would be calling the 2005 Vermont upset of Syracuse, "Sorrentine, from the parking lot!." Johnson has been widely regarded as the most enthusiastic broadcaster to don the headset, and has always been outspoken for "the little guys" in college basketball. Midnight to March emulates this stance for the mid-majors and certainly takes college basketball as enthusiasm. Therefore every day, MTM will glance at "The Daily Gus", a pumped-up reaction and analysis of nightly happenings in D-I.
Friday, November 14, 2008
MTM Fearless Predictions (BCS Version)
Conference Champions
ACC: North Carolina
Big East: Connecticut
Big Ten: Purdue
Big 12: Oklahoma
Pac-10: UCLA
SEC: Florida
BCS All-Americans
G: Darren Collison, UCLA
G: James Harden, Arizona State
F: Luke Harangody, Notre Dame
F: Blake Griffin, Oklahoma
C: Tyler Hansbrough, North Carolina
Final Four: North Carolina, Louisville, Oklahoma, and Florida
Game of the Year: November 26 - North Carolina versus Notre Dame (projected Maui Invitational final)
Biggest Sleeper: Miami
Biggest Disappointment: Pittsburgh
Coach on the hotseat: John Beilein, Michigan
Coach living the dream: Matt Painter, Purdue
Best freshman: Tyreke Evans, Memphis
Who I don't want to see leave college basketball: Dominic James, Marquette
Best NBA Prospect: Blake Griffin, Oklahoma
Conference that will be discussed for getting nine bids: Big East
Conference that will be discussed for getting three bids: SEC
ACC: North Carolina
Big East: Connecticut
Big Ten: Purdue
Big 12: Oklahoma
Pac-10: UCLA
SEC: Florida
BCS All-Americans
G: Darren Collison, UCLA
G: James Harden, Arizona State
F: Luke Harangody, Notre Dame
F: Blake Griffin, Oklahoma
C: Tyler Hansbrough, North Carolina
Final Four: North Carolina, Louisville, Oklahoma, and Florida
Game of the Year: November 26 - North Carolina versus Notre Dame (projected Maui Invitational final)
Biggest Sleeper: Miami
Biggest Disappointment: Pittsburgh
Coach on the hotseat: John Beilein, Michigan
Coach living the dream: Matt Painter, Purdue
Best freshman: Tyreke Evans, Memphis
Who I don't want to see leave college basketball: Dominic James, Marquette
Best NBA Prospect: Blake Griffin, Oklahoma
Conference that will be discussed for getting nine bids: Big East
Conference that will be discussed for getting three bids: SEC
MTM Fearless Predictions (Non-BCS version)
I always say predictions are overrated, but I love to do them anyways, especially in November for four months from now. Every conference winner projected as well as some speculation of honors and maybe some help for your season prognostications (for recreational purposes only)
Conference Champions
America East: Vermont
Atlantic Sun: Belmont
A-10: Xavier
Big Sky: Portland State
Big South: Winthrop
Big West: Pacific
CAA: VCU
C-USA: Memphis (yawn)
Horizon: Cleveland State
Ivy: We don't do IVY at MTM
MAAC: Siena
MAC: Kent State
MEAC: Hampton
MVC: Creighton
NEC: Wagner
OVC: Tennessee-Martin
MWest: UNLV
Patriot: American
SoCon: Davidson
SLC: Stephen F Austin
SWAC: Alabama State
Summit: IUPUI
Sun Belt: Western Kentucky
WCC: Gonzaga
WAC: New Mexico State
Non-BCS All Americans
G: Stephen Curry, Davidson
G: Eric Maynor, VCU
G: Jeremy Pargo, Gonzaga
G: Lester Hudson, Tennessee-Martin
C: Marques Blakely, Vermont
Potential Davidson's 2008: Davidson, VCU, Gonzaga, Cleveland State
Curry for Davidson, Maynor for VCU and Pargo for Gonzaga give these teams all a chance to play in the second weekend of the NCAA Tournament. Cleveland State will win the Horizon, and have a gaudy record heading into the Dance. Do not underestimate the 1-2 punch of Jonathan Bullock and Cedric Jackson with the Vikings.
Potential Cinderella: Portland State
They were young and got a taste of the NCAAs last season when they got crushed by eventual champion Kansas in the first round. Everybody is back and the conference is weak, paving the way for a return to March.
Mid-Major Disappointment: Butler
Who knows this may be a stretch, but the Bulldogs are real young and lost nearly all of their experience with AJ Graves graduation. Butler could very well go from the top ten to .500 in one season.
Major Turnaround for a Mid-Major: Utah
The Utes finished at the bottom of the Mountain West last season, but big Luke Neville will make sure the Utes regain prosperity where they have become comfortable. Look for Utah to swing to the outside and challenge for the league crown.
Conference Champions
America East: Vermont
Atlantic Sun: Belmont
A-10: Xavier
Big Sky: Portland State
Big South: Winthrop
Big West: Pacific
CAA: VCU
C-USA: Memphis (yawn)
Horizon: Cleveland State
Ivy: We don't do IVY at MTM
MAAC: Siena
MAC: Kent State
MEAC: Hampton
MVC: Creighton
NEC: Wagner
OVC: Tennessee-Martin
MWest: UNLV
Patriot: American
SoCon: Davidson
SLC: Stephen F Austin
SWAC: Alabama State
Summit: IUPUI
Sun Belt: Western Kentucky
WCC: Gonzaga
WAC: New Mexico State
Non-BCS All Americans
G: Stephen Curry, Davidson
G: Eric Maynor, VCU
G: Jeremy Pargo, Gonzaga
G: Lester Hudson, Tennessee-Martin
C: Marques Blakely, Vermont
Potential Davidson's 2008: Davidson, VCU, Gonzaga, Cleveland State
Curry for Davidson, Maynor for VCU and Pargo for Gonzaga give these teams all a chance to play in the second weekend of the NCAA Tournament. Cleveland State will win the Horizon, and have a gaudy record heading into the Dance. Do not underestimate the 1-2 punch of Jonathan Bullock and Cedric Jackson with the Vikings.
Potential Cinderella: Portland State
They were young and got a taste of the NCAAs last season when they got crushed by eventual champion Kansas in the first round. Everybody is back and the conference is weak, paving the way for a return to March.
Mid-Major Disappointment: Butler
Who knows this may be a stretch, but the Bulldogs are real young and lost nearly all of their experience with AJ Graves graduation. Butler could very well go from the top ten to .500 in one season.
Major Turnaround for a Mid-Major: Utah
The Utes finished at the bottom of the Mountain West last season, but big Luke Neville will make sure the Utes regain prosperity where they have become comfortable. Look for Utah to swing to the outside and challenge for the league crown.
10-1
10 Memphis
9 UCLA
8 Florida
7 Purdue
6 Duke
5 Oklahoma
4 Notre Dame
3 Connecticut
2 Louisville
1 North Carolina
Notes: Welcome to the show, the big dogs of the yard...John Calipari loses Derrick Rose, but continues to reload, Tyreke Evans is the latest star to come into the Music City, another 30-win season and at least a Sweet 16 for the Tigers...UCLA starts the season scraping by Miami Ohio, but the Bruins still have alot of talent; Darren Collison could be an all-American, Josh Shipp and Alfred Aboya are back and Kevin Love shouldn't be missed too much. Ben Howland has himself another squad that can lock up...The Baby Gators are growing up; Billy Donovan will get the kids playing again as they finished strong last season. Nick Calathes is the next big time Gator scorer and look for him to make huge strides this season and take Florida back to prominence in the NCAA tournament... Purdue lost nobody from an exceptional squad last season; Matt Painter's fourth season has the highest expectations with forward Robbie Hummel leading the Boilers. First time favorites in the Big Ten since the days of Glenn Robinson...Back to back first weekend exits from the NCAAs has Dookies worried, but this season they should remain in the top ten all season. Kyle Singler is a year older as is Jon Scheyer and that spells trouble for anyone coming into Cameron (that's you Carolina)...My darkhorse national champion, Oklahoma features two big time NBA prospects, Blake Griffin and Orlando Allen will bolster down the frontcourt as the best duo west of the Mississippi and the backcourt is young but extremely talented. Point guard Willie Warren will bring excitement to Norman not seen since the Hollis Price days...Luke Harangody returns for his junior season and Kyle McAlarney returns for his senior season. These two Irishmen can fill it up for ND and are the best 1-2 punch in the Big East. Mike Brey has his best Notre Dame team, but every year expectations have been highest, the Irish have underachieved, since the days of Troy Murphy and Chris Thomas...First round disappointment for UCONN last year against San Diego showed immaturity they never seemed to have early last season. Hasheem Thabeet, Jeff Adrien and AJ Price is the foundation for Jim Calhoun this year and they are a tough, athletic trio that can win games solely on their athleticism within the Big East. If they can find some perimeter scoring to combine with the frontcourt they could cut down the nets in Detroit...Rick Pitino has a really young and really really good team that will press the hell out of Big East foes and make life miserable for small, finesse teams (Notre Dame save Harangody). The Cards have Edgar Sosa and for most teams that would be enough. The junior guard will be the explosive scorer the 'Ville needs to get back to the Final Four...The consensus number one team in all of the land: North Carolina loses no starters from last year's Final Four team, and will be better. Tyler Hansbrough (when he returns from injury) will be the expected POY and Felton will help him acheive that honor. It's possible these Heels could sweep all-ACC first team, that's how good they are. Consensus opinion is even Roy Williams can't screw this team up. If they don't cut down the nets at Ford Field on April 7th something went terribly wrong.
9 UCLA
8 Florida
7 Purdue
6 Duke
5 Oklahoma
4 Notre Dame
3 Connecticut
2 Louisville
1 North Carolina
Notes: Welcome to the show, the big dogs of the yard...John Calipari loses Derrick Rose, but continues to reload, Tyreke Evans is the latest star to come into the Music City, another 30-win season and at least a Sweet 16 for the Tigers...UCLA starts the season scraping by Miami Ohio, but the Bruins still have alot of talent; Darren Collison could be an all-American, Josh Shipp and Alfred Aboya are back and Kevin Love shouldn't be missed too much. Ben Howland has himself another squad that can lock up...The Baby Gators are growing up; Billy Donovan will get the kids playing again as they finished strong last season. Nick Calathes is the next big time Gator scorer and look for him to make huge strides this season and take Florida back to prominence in the NCAA tournament... Purdue lost nobody from an exceptional squad last season; Matt Painter's fourth season has the highest expectations with forward Robbie Hummel leading the Boilers. First time favorites in the Big Ten since the days of Glenn Robinson...Back to back first weekend exits from the NCAAs has Dookies worried, but this season they should remain in the top ten all season. Kyle Singler is a year older as is Jon Scheyer and that spells trouble for anyone coming into Cameron (that's you Carolina)...My darkhorse national champion, Oklahoma features two big time NBA prospects, Blake Griffin and Orlando Allen will bolster down the frontcourt as the best duo west of the Mississippi and the backcourt is young but extremely talented. Point guard Willie Warren will bring excitement to Norman not seen since the Hollis Price days...Luke Harangody returns for his junior season and Kyle McAlarney returns for his senior season. These two Irishmen can fill it up for ND and are the best 1-2 punch in the Big East. Mike Brey has his best Notre Dame team, but every year expectations have been highest, the Irish have underachieved, since the days of Troy Murphy and Chris Thomas...First round disappointment for UCONN last year against San Diego showed immaturity they never seemed to have early last season. Hasheem Thabeet, Jeff Adrien and AJ Price is the foundation for Jim Calhoun this year and they are a tough, athletic trio that can win games solely on their athleticism within the Big East. If they can find some perimeter scoring to combine with the frontcourt they could cut down the nets in Detroit...Rick Pitino has a really young and really really good team that will press the hell out of Big East foes and make life miserable for small, finesse teams (Notre Dame save Harangody). The Cards have Edgar Sosa and for most teams that would be enough. The junior guard will be the explosive scorer the 'Ville needs to get back to the Final Four...The consensus number one team in all of the land: North Carolina loses no starters from last year's Final Four team, and will be better. Tyler Hansbrough (when he returns from injury) will be the expected POY and Felton will help him acheive that honor. It's possible these Heels could sweep all-ACC first team, that's how good they are. Consensus opinion is even Roy Williams can't screw this team up. If they don't cut down the nets at Ford Field on April 7th something went terribly wrong.
20-11
20 Tennessee
19 Arizona
18 Arizona State
17 Georgetown
16 Pittsburgh
15 Texas
14 Marquette
13 Miami
12 Wisconsin
11 Michigan State
Notes: Slew of Final Four darkhorses here...Tennessee, athletic? Can't believe that; the loss of Chris Lofton will not be felt guaranteed. The Vols will be more high-octane than ever, just ask Tyler Smith...Lute Olsen, gone. Brandon Jennings, gone. Chase Budinger is still there, and will keep things under control in the desert...No March uneasiness for Herb Sendek this year, he has a powerhouse squad in Tempe that could challenge UCLA for the Pac-10 crown led by guard James Harden...The familiar faces are gone in D.C., but DaJuan Summers will be the next Jeff Green; the kid can score and defend just like him. If Summers reaches potential, Georgetown could make it deep in March...Levance Fields, Sam Young and DeJuan Blair are back for the Panthers; they feature depth, experience and defense. They cannot score with Louisville and will have difficulty keeping pace with offenses that can fill it up...Texas lost DJ Augustin, but that's it and they were certainly more of a one man show; Guard A.J. Abrams and forward Damion James will have to pick up where Ford, Durant and Augustin have left off...Not much will change in Milwaukee with Tom Crean's departure; assistant Brent Williams and all-Big East guard Dominic James will keep the Golden Eagles steady...Do the Dews; Miami is primed for its best season in years in the ACC, get on board, they are big, athletic, fun and can shoot the lights out...Best home court advantage statistically since the turn of the century; Bo knows these Badgers- four big time returnees including junior guard Trevon Hughes...Michigan State freshman Delvon Roe is supposed to be the next Greg Oden, not the next Kosta Koufos. If he fulfills his expectations, the loss of Drew Neitzel won't be nearly as felt. Combine Roe with Goran Suton and the Spartans are the deepest in the Big Ten.
19 Arizona
18 Arizona State
17 Georgetown
16 Pittsburgh
15 Texas
14 Marquette
13 Miami
12 Wisconsin
11 Michigan State
Notes: Slew of Final Four darkhorses here...Tennessee, athletic? Can't believe that; the loss of Chris Lofton will not be felt guaranteed. The Vols will be more high-octane than ever, just ask Tyler Smith...Lute Olsen, gone. Brandon Jennings, gone. Chase Budinger is still there, and will keep things under control in the desert...No March uneasiness for Herb Sendek this year, he has a powerhouse squad in Tempe that could challenge UCLA for the Pac-10 crown led by guard James Harden...The familiar faces are gone in D.C., but DaJuan Summers will be the next Jeff Green; the kid can score and defend just like him. If Summers reaches potential, Georgetown could make it deep in March...Levance Fields, Sam Young and DeJuan Blair are back for the Panthers; they feature depth, experience and defense. They cannot score with Louisville and will have difficulty keeping pace with offenses that can fill it up...Texas lost DJ Augustin, but that's it and they were certainly more of a one man show; Guard A.J. Abrams and forward Damion James will have to pick up where Ford, Durant and Augustin have left off...Not much will change in Milwaukee with Tom Crean's departure; assistant Brent Williams and all-Big East guard Dominic James will keep the Golden Eagles steady...Do the Dews; Miami is primed for its best season in years in the ACC, get on board, they are big, athletic, fun and can shoot the lights out...Best home court advantage statistically since the turn of the century; Bo knows these Badgers- four big time returnees including junior guard Trevon Hughes...Michigan State freshman Delvon Roe is supposed to be the next Greg Oden, not the next Kosta Koufos. If he fulfills his expectations, the loss of Drew Neitzel won't be nearly as felt. Combine Roe with Goran Suton and the Spartans are the deepest in the Big Ten.
30-21
30 UNLV
29 Wake Forest
28 Kentucky
27 Villanova
26 Baylor
25 Davidson
24 Gonzaga
23 Syracuse
22 UAB
21 Clemson
Notes: Best name in college basketball, UNLV guard Wink Adams; leading scorer for the Rebels will fill it up out west all season long and help Lon Kruger take UNLV back to the sweet 16...Wake Forest had the best recruiting class in the ACC this season (!) and as a result will be a major force come February...Don't expect Paatrick Patterson to struggle too much for Billy Gillespie this season; the Wildcats should be a sound force in the SEC this season...Nova is back to thier four guard set led by gas guzzler Scottie Reynolds; the scoring machine is the best guard in the Big East, maybe America...Baylor won't be surprising anyone this season, but their defense could help them capture a Big 12 title if Curtis Jerrells has anything to do with it...Stephen Curry is back. Again. He is the best raw scorer in America, but can the Wildcats do it again with less of a supporting cast?...Mark Few has potentially his best Zag team; Jeremy Pargo could be the best guard since Dan Dickau to come out of SPokane. Combine that with the scoring of Austin Daye and the power of Josh Heytvelt and power is restored in the WCC...Paul Harris is back for the Orange, Jim Boeheim needs to find the swagger left behind by Gerry McNamara; Eric Devendorf's return should assist in the renaissance...Robert Vaden will win C-USA player of the year and Mike Davis will bring the Blazers back to the tourney as they hand Memphis their first conference loss in three years on February 26 in Birmingham... No way Oliver Purnell can keep up the success in Death Valley? Clemson is bigger and stronger than ever; the reason they can contend in the ACC.
29 Wake Forest
28 Kentucky
27 Villanova
26 Baylor
25 Davidson
24 Gonzaga
23 Syracuse
22 UAB
21 Clemson
Notes: Best name in college basketball, UNLV guard Wink Adams; leading scorer for the Rebels will fill it up out west all season long and help Lon Kruger take UNLV back to the sweet 16...Wake Forest had the best recruiting class in the ACC this season (!) and as a result will be a major force come February...Don't expect Paatrick Patterson to struggle too much for Billy Gillespie this season; the Wildcats should be a sound force in the SEC this season...Nova is back to thier four guard set led by gas guzzler Scottie Reynolds; the scoring machine is the best guard in the Big East, maybe America...Baylor won't be surprising anyone this season, but their defense could help them capture a Big 12 title if Curtis Jerrells has anything to do with it...Stephen Curry is back. Again. He is the best raw scorer in America, but can the Wildcats do it again with less of a supporting cast?...Mark Few has potentially his best Zag team; Jeremy Pargo could be the best guard since Dan Dickau to come out of SPokane. Combine that with the scoring of Austin Daye and the power of Josh Heytvelt and power is restored in the WCC...Paul Harris is back for the Orange, Jim Boeheim needs to find the swagger left behind by Gerry McNamara; Eric Devendorf's return should assist in the renaissance...Robert Vaden will win C-USA player of the year and Mike Davis will bring the Blazers back to the tourney as they hand Memphis their first conference loss in three years on February 26 in Birmingham... No way Oliver Purnell can keep up the success in Death Valley? Clemson is bigger and stronger than ever; the reason they can contend in the ACC.
40-31
40 Tulsa
39 Northeastern
38 Southern Cal
37 Alabama
36 West Virginia
35 Ohio State
34 VCU
33 Xavier
32 Saint Mary
31 Kansas
Notes: Defending champion Kansas will have alot of holes to fill as their most prominent returnee Sherron Collins will shoulder the load...West Virginia loses Joe Alexander, but still should be a force in the Big East; Joe Mazzulla will lead Huggins and the Mounties to another NCAA berth...Two CAA schools will figure prominently in the national spectrum: remember Northeastern raw scorer Matt Janning and conference player of the year VCU point guard Eric Maynor. It will be an exciting year in the Colonial...Saint Mary's looks to rebound after a disappointing NCAA appearance last season; guard Patrick Mills could repeat as WCC Player of the Year, he needs to increase his scoring for the Gaels to stay here...Tulsa will rely on their defense to get to the top of C-USA, should be third and a bubble team behind UAB and Memphis...Ronald Steele is back for Bama and still is one of the top point guards in the SEC; he will need to stay healthy, but if he does the Tide could be rolling like they did in '04.
39 Northeastern
38 Southern Cal
37 Alabama
36 West Virginia
35 Ohio State
34 VCU
33 Xavier
32 Saint Mary
31 Kansas
Notes: Defending champion Kansas will have alot of holes to fill as their most prominent returnee Sherron Collins will shoulder the load...West Virginia loses Joe Alexander, but still should be a force in the Big East; Joe Mazzulla will lead Huggins and the Mounties to another NCAA berth...Two CAA schools will figure prominently in the national spectrum: remember Northeastern raw scorer Matt Janning and conference player of the year VCU point guard Eric Maynor. It will be an exciting year in the Colonial...Saint Mary's looks to rebound after a disappointing NCAA appearance last season; guard Patrick Mills could repeat as WCC Player of the Year, he needs to increase his scoring for the Gaels to stay here...Tulsa will rely on their defense to get to the top of C-USA, should be third and a bubble team behind UAB and Memphis...Ronald Steele is back for Bama and still is one of the top point guards in the SEC; he will need to stay healthy, but if he does the Tide could be rolling like they did in '04.
53-41
As the beginning of the season has commenced, the countdown concludes at Midnight to March. The rest of the countdown goes as follows:
53 Virginia Tech
52 LSU
51 American
50 Kent State
49 Drake
48 Washington
47 Siena
46 Nevada
45 Mississippi
44 BYU
43 Missouri
42 Texas A&M
41 San Diego
53 Virginia Tech
52 LSU
51 American
50 Kent State
49 Drake
48 Washington
47 Siena
46 Nevada
45 Mississippi
44 BYU
43 Missouri
42 Texas A&M
41 San Diego
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
55. San Diego State, 54. Cleveland State
55. San Diego State
The Aztecs won 20 games last season and finished fourth in the Mountain West behind BYU, New Mexico and UNLV, but earned a trip to the NIT where they traveled across the country to get thumped by Florida in the first round. Steve Fisher featured a young team who exceeded some expectations and captured their third consecutive 20-win season and has now successfully stamped SDSU as a Mountain West mainstay threat. 6-6 forward Lorenzo Wade led the Aztecs last season with 15 points per game, 5 boards per game and an impressive four assists per game as a swing man. Wade transferred from Louisville after his freshman season and has shined ever since he has been under the toasty San Diego sun.
This season could be Fisher’s most talented team, and as a result his best chance to capture a Mountain West title. The Mountain West may be the best mid-major league in the country this year, but the Aztecs have a legitimate reason to think they could crack the top 25. They will get national exposure in a weak Great Alaska Shootout field and should be undefeated going into a big time game at Arizona in early December. They also get WAC foe Fresno State and BCS school Arizona State at home to begin the season. They play Saint Mary on a neutral court in Anaheim where they could get another quality win. San Diego State could legitimately be undefeated going into Mountain West play and in the top 25. Wade is the most well-rounded player in the mountain West and will have to be exceptional for SDSU to reach their goals. Also in the frontcourt 6-8 forward Ryan Amoroso who led the team in rebounding with seven per game. Amoroso is a Marquette transfer who can bang inside. 6’8 Billy White also provides bulk on the inside. The returning freshman of the year in the MWC averaged nine and six last season and he can step out allowing more room for Wade and Amoroso to work. 6-5 senior Kyle Spain and 6-7 sophomore Tim Shelton also look to see minutes; both of whom averaged double figures for the Aztecs last season and add to the already exceptionally athletic SDSU frontcourt. In the backcourt, 5-10 senior Richie Williams will lead the troops; he has played in 91 games and made 76 starts in his career. Last season Williams averaged three assists per contest before an injury kept him out of the end of the campaign. D.J. Gay stepped in for Williams and averaged six points per game and started 26 games in his freshman year. Gay and Williams figure to be the starting backcourt for Fisher’s club and will have to score and get the bigs involved.
The Aztecs are really deep and feature a lot of talent. Combine that with Fisher’s coaching experience and juggling a lot of talent (Fab Five at Michigan in the early ‘90s) and the Aztecs have the potential to be real good. I think they will challenge UNLV for the league title; although I do not think they are quite as talented in the backcourt which will cost them. The Mountain West is incredibly deep, so they will have the opportunity to get RPI-bolsters throughout the conference schedule. The difficult thing will be bringing it every night and winning tough games on the road which can be tough in this league. Wade could win MWC player of the year honors and if he does, expect the Aztecs to be bumping around the bottom of the top-25 and certainly with an NCAA bid.
54. Cleveland State
Cleveland State surprised nearly everyone in the Horizon league and national landscape last season, reversing their record from 10-21 to 21-13 and receiving an invitation to the NIT where they lost at Dayton in the first round. The Vikings started out 14-5 and 7-0 in the Horizon league where they knocked off #12 Butler at home and there were rumblings of a Horizon league title. They then proceeded to lose five in a row before winning seven of their last eight. The Vikings faced Butler again in the Horizon title game, but could not overcome the Bulldog experienced firepower. An incredibly successful campaign after being picked ninth in the ten team league and earning a postseason appearance for the first time since 1988.
Cleveland State returns four starters and two Horizon league first teamers from a year ago who will certainly be the focal point of the conference this year. J’Nathan Bullock averaged 15 a game along with seven boards; he’s 6-5, 240 and a senior. Bullock is a force and knows what its like to be part of the Viking rebuilding project, earning 28 wins in three seasons before 21 last year. Bullock earned first team honors as being the brute force for the Vikings and providing the stud on the interior Gary Waters needed. On the perimeter, Cedric Jackson is a St. John’s transfer who averaged 14, four and four for the Vikes last year. Jackson will be running the point again for the Vikings, and he will have to improve on his nearly 1:1 assist-to-turnover ratio last season. Bullock also figures to change his role, stepping more outside and extending the defenses, no Vikings shot better than 30% except for Bullock and Jackson. The Vikings have the two best players in the conference and that is why they are the preseason pick as tops in the conference, and they will now have opportunities to contend with some BCS caliber schools. A “neutral” game in Seattle against Washington, road trips to West Virginia and Syracuse as well as the BracketBuster opponent should all give the Vikings a chance to contend on a national stage.
Cleveland State is in an interesting position. Talent wise they have the ability to be a top-five mid major team this season, but none of these players have ever experienced national success much less even conference wins. Last season right after they snatched the lead and controlled their own destiny after beating Butler, they lost five in a row. That cannot happen in this season where they will be hunted every night and get every team’s best in the Horizon. They are lethal at home, dropping only two games all season, one of which to NIT champion Ohio State, but they will be forced to win conference road games this year if they want to capture the league crown and be a force on the national stage for the first time in years.
57. Oklahoma State, 56. South Carolina
57. Oklahoma State
Sean Sutton resigned after a disappointing 17-16 season where they squeaked into the NIT where they got beat in the first round. The Cowboys finished tied for seventh in the Big 12, their worst finish in over five years and thus caused the end of the Sutton era in Stillwater. Home victories over Kansas and Texas Tech coupled with a quarterfinal appearance in the Big 12 tourney provided some bright spots, but the low point was a 16-point drubbing at the hands of fellow Oklahomans, Oral Roberts.
Former Massachusetts coach Travis Ford takes over the Pokes for this season, and immediately a rebuilding job has to be done. Four starters return, none more important than 5-11 guard Byron Eaton. Eaton certainly does not resemble a blue chip stud, but he might end up being the best point guard in the Big 12 this season. Ford will look to Eaton to be more consistent at the point guard spot, and improve on his third-team all conference this past season. “I expect Byron to be one of the best point guards in the country this season,” Ford said. Eaton certainly has the skill set and opened the country’s eyes on national television last year when he scored 26 points in a victory over national champion Kansas. Also returning is 6-6 sophomore guard James Anderson who led the Pokes in scoring last year with 13 per game and hit 67 three pointers as a frosh. “Anderson is a future NBA guard” Ford said. Returning guards Terrel Harris and Obi Muonelo should bolster the backcourt but do not expect them to shoulder much of the scoring, it should be limited to Eaton and Anderson. The Pokes have nothing inside; 6-11 sophomore Ibrahima Thomas gets lost and wanders outside, taking 34 three pointers last season, but he did start 27 games. The Cowboys are loaded with post players who extend themselves outside as perimeter forces which will certainly extend the defense. However, expect them to be at the bottom of the league in the rebounding margin.
Oklahoma State will be fine from the perimeter, that much is certain. Eaton, Anderson and Harris could be one of the premiere backcourts in the conference and will win some games for Oklahoma State against smaller teams. Points in the paint, rebounding, second chance points will be nonexistent; there is not a team with less inside talent for their skill set outside as Oklahoma State. However, I will put faith in Ford to instill a system which will work. Uptempo, scoring quick and often and then locking up other backcourts will be the key to Big 12 success, but it is still a rebuilding year in terms of goals. This team will surprise some, especially at home at Gallagher-Iba Arena, but I think an NCAA appearance in a deep Big 12 will end up being unlikely.
56. South Carolina
A 14-18 season where you lose your head coach (Dave Odom) who is a legend and has seen success at every level he has coached. Odom had seen three 20-win seasons and back-to-back NIT championships in 2005 and 2006 before faltering the last two winning 14 games each season. Odom announced his retirement in January, amidst a restless state of the program and talking heads speculating about Odom’s motives. Last year 5-9 guard Devan Downey averaged 18 per game coupled with 3.2 steals per contest and led the team at the point guard spot. According to fellow defenses, Downey might be the quickest guard in the league evidenced by his steal numbers. Downey was the lone bright spot as a transfer from Cincinnati, second in assists, leading the SEC in steals and seventh in scoring.
Coupled with Downey this season will be guards Zam Frederick and Brandis Raley-Ross. Frederick is one of the many Gamecock designated three point assassins who hit at a 35% clip last year and benefits largely from Downey’s penetration. Raley-Ross did not shoot as many as Frederick but when he did he hit; going 37-of-72 from behind the arc, which would have earned him the most accurate shooter in the nation if he had enough attempts (2.5 makes per). 6-7 junior Evaldas Baniulis shot 44% from three last season, 42-of-95, stretching out the defense, opening up the lane for Downey and then being a lethal catch and shooter for South Carolina. As evidence by these statistics, shooting and perimeter issues will not be a problem for former Western Kentucky coach Darrin Horn’s first campaign in Columbia. What will be an issue is inside. “We are not big, we’ve got some depth on the interior, but we’re not big,” Horn told Blue Ribbon Yearbook, “Rebounding and defense are going to be issues for us.”
The Gamecocks lose nobody from last season, but how are they expected to be successful if they could only muster up 14 wins the last two seasons with these same guys? It may be tough due to the quality of the SEC and more specifically the east division. However, combine Downey’s quickness and ability to penetrate into the lane with these perimeter shooters and all of a sudden this team becomes capable of knocking down shots and spacing out defenders. From a strictly raw talent perspective, the Gamecocks could finish dead last in the SEC East, but if they manage to knock down shots and Downey continues to defend and steal as he did last season, I think Darrin Horn will enjoy his first season in Columbia. I expect South Carolina to be in the upper tier of the league and return to the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 2004.
59. Maryland, 58. Massachusetts
59. Maryland
Last season Maryland had a roller coaster ride that ended up the same way the last few seasons had ended; an NIT berth after falling off the bubble fence in late February. The Terps had an awful non conference season by their standards; dropping six games, all six in the D.C. metropolitan area. As soon as the conference season startd, Gary Williams managed to get the team rolling, starting with a win at then #1 UNC. The Terps hung their hats on that victory all the way until Selection Sunday, but losing six of their last eight in conference and in the opening round of the ACC Tournament cost them an NCAA spot. The Terps must find a valuable replacement for both of their big men inside; James Gist and Bambale Osby combined for 49 minutes, 15 boards and 27 points per game last year as seniors.
Maryland returns both of their starting guards, Grievis Vasquez and Eric Hayes. Vasquez led the team in scoring last season, averaging 17 a game, and Hayes was the team’s top perimeter threat. The Terps only have one senior, Dave Neal, who had only one start and averaged less than eight minutes per game. Therefore with Hayes and Vasquez, Maryland has a foundation for the next two seasons on the perimeter. Unfortunately the ACC is littered with big men this season and things are mighty thin up front. Sophomores Braxton Dupree, Jerome Burney and Dino Gregory will all play vital roles as returning sophomores; none of whom are defined and have yet to prove themselves on such a stage.
Maryland has a reason for excitement: young experience in the backcourt and potential in the frontcourt. The problem will be adjusting to a very difficult schedule which features the Old Spice Classic and an obviously demanding conference schedule. Maryland should return to the NCAAs, but it will not be easy. They must win the games they are supposed to at home in the non-con to put themselves in position for wiggle room in the ACC.
58. Massachusetts
Coach Travis Ford led the Minutemen to a 25-win season and a trip to the NIT championship where they lost to Ohio State in the final. The Minutemen started out 11-2 with impressive road wins at Boston College and Syracuse and against Houston at home. Then the schedule picked up and lost seven of ten at the outset of the A-10 schedule, which really cost them a shot at an at-large bid. Losing in the A-10 quarters also ended their dreams for a NCAA appearance, but ended on a high note in the NIT.
The Minutemen lose high scorer swingman Gary Forbes, but guard Chris Lowe returns for new head coach Derek Kellogg. Kellogg was an assistant at Memphis and hopes to bring the quick, uptempo Memphis game to Amherst. Lowe led the A-10 in assists last year and helped Forbes earn player of the year honors in the league. The scoring will be dependent on junior guard Ricky Harris. Harris averaged 18 per last season and will have to improve even more than last season when he earned A-10 Most Improved player award. Harris knocked down an astounding 104 three pointers and should match that total with the amount of touches he looks to get this season. “Having two guys (Lowe and Harris) who have proven themselves is great,” Kellogg said. Inside the Minutemen have a lot of size. 7-1 center Luke Bonner and 6-8 Tony Gaffney both provide senior leadership for this team as they both played in all 35 games last season. Three underclassmen provide bulk to the Minutemen interior which should help keep them fresh and able. Freshmen Tyrell Lynch and Travon Wilcher both come in expecting to see significant minutes replacing both Gaffney and Bonner.
Umass has the skills to go to the NCAA Tournament, but compared to everyone else in the league they may end up being a step behind St. Joe and Xavier. They are deep, talented and really athletic, but transitioning to Kellogg’s system and ways could cause some growing pains for what is an incredibly experienced starting rotation. Blend the returnees with some explosive newcomers and this Massachusetts team will be rolling come February and certainly a force in March. Expect another 25-win season for the Minutemen.
Last season Maryland had a roller coaster ride that ended up the same way the last few seasons had ended; an NIT berth after falling off the bubble fence in late February. The Terps had an awful non conference season by their standards; dropping six games, all six in the D.C. metropolitan area. As soon as the conference season startd, Gary Williams managed to get the team rolling, starting with a win at then #1 UNC. The Terps hung their hats on that victory all the way until Selection Sunday, but losing six of their last eight in conference and in the opening round of the ACC Tournament cost them an NCAA spot. The Terps must find a valuable replacement for both of their big men inside; James Gist and Bambale Osby combined for 49 minutes, 15 boards and 27 points per game last year as seniors.
Maryland returns both of their starting guards, Grievis Vasquez and Eric Hayes. Vasquez led the team in scoring last season, averaging 17 a game, and Hayes was the team’s top perimeter threat. The Terps only have one senior, Dave Neal, who had only one start and averaged less than eight minutes per game. Therefore with Hayes and Vasquez, Maryland has a foundation for the next two seasons on the perimeter. Unfortunately the ACC is littered with big men this season and things are mighty thin up front. Sophomores Braxton Dupree, Jerome Burney and Dino Gregory will all play vital roles as returning sophomores; none of whom are defined and have yet to prove themselves on such a stage.
Maryland has a reason for excitement: young experience in the backcourt and potential in the frontcourt. The problem will be adjusting to a very difficult schedule which features the Old Spice Classic and an obviously demanding conference schedule. Maryland should return to the NCAAs, but it will not be easy. They must win the games they are supposed to at home in the non-con to put themselves in position for wiggle room in the ACC.
58. Massachusetts
Coach Travis Ford led the Minutemen to a 25-win season and a trip to the NIT championship where they lost to Ohio State in the final. The Minutemen started out 11-2 with impressive road wins at Boston College and Syracuse and against Houston at home. Then the schedule picked up and lost seven of ten at the outset of the A-10 schedule, which really cost them a shot at an at-large bid. Losing in the A-10 quarters also ended their dreams for a NCAA appearance, but ended on a high note in the NIT.
The Minutemen lose high scorer swingman Gary Forbes, but guard Chris Lowe returns for new head coach Derek Kellogg. Kellogg was an assistant at Memphis and hopes to bring the quick, uptempo Memphis game to Amherst. Lowe led the A-10 in assists last year and helped Forbes earn player of the year honors in the league. The scoring will be dependent on junior guard Ricky Harris. Harris averaged 18 per last season and will have to improve even more than last season when he earned A-10 Most Improved player award. Harris knocked down an astounding 104 three pointers and should match that total with the amount of touches he looks to get this season. “Having two guys (Lowe and Harris) who have proven themselves is great,” Kellogg said. Inside the Minutemen have a lot of size. 7-1 center Luke Bonner and 6-8 Tony Gaffney both provide senior leadership for this team as they both played in all 35 games last season. Three underclassmen provide bulk to the Minutemen interior which should help keep them fresh and able. Freshmen Tyrell Lynch and Travon Wilcher both come in expecting to see significant minutes replacing both Gaffney and Bonner.
Umass has the skills to go to the NCAA Tournament, but compared to everyone else in the league they may end up being a step behind St. Joe and Xavier. They are deep, talented and really athletic, but transitioning to Kellogg’s system and ways could cause some growing pains for what is an incredibly experienced starting rotation. Blend the returnees with some explosive newcomers and this Massachusetts team will be rolling come February and certainly a force in March. Expect another 25-win season for the Minutemen.
Sunday, September 21, 2008
61. Minnesota, 60. Providence
61. Minnesota
The Golden Gophers graduated its top three scorers from a 20-win team a year ago which made their first postseason berth under Tubby Smith’s first season as head coach. Lawrence McKenzie, Dan Coleman and Spencer Tollackson combined for 33 points per game, half of the Gopher total. Minnesota started out the season 12-3 before coming back to reality during the conference play, winning one game against the upper tier of the conference.
When a team must replace their top three scorers it never figures to be a positive atmosphere nor does it promise very much success, but this Minnesota team may be an exception. New acquisitions of a pair of 6’11 freshman bigs, Ralph Sampson III (son of UVA great Ralph Sampson) and Colton Iverson will make immediate impacts within the Big 10 and will make the back end of the Minnesota defense along with fifth year senior, 6’9 Jonathan Williams tough to crack. Junior Lawrence Westbrook and Blake Hoffarber return in the backcourt and both will move into prominent starting roles this year. An X-factor for Tubby Smith this season may be 6’8 juco-transfer forward Paul Carter. Carter adds height and athleticism to the frontcourt and swing game similar to a Tayshaun Prince-type player who Smith would love to emulate. Carter should see significant minutes as a big three for the Gophers this year.
This team will be incredibly young and could end up foiling and going 12-18 or so; but I really feel Smith will put this team together very quickly and let the newcomers gain confidence. With only two seniors on the team, and only one (Williams) expects to see time, this team will grow up quickly in the conference. Without question the best thing for this squad will be not leaving Minneapolis more than once in the non-con. Look for Minny to be rolling again and growing up as a team before crashing a little in the Big Ten season. I will not say an NCAA appearance is an expectation but with the talent here it is a realistic goal and possibility.
60. Providence
A high amount of talent combined with a high amount of experience normally yields the greatest kind of success a collection of individuals can have on a basketball court. Unfortunately for the Providence Friars and Tim Welsh, great expectations do not always warrant great success. Preseason expectations were set very high as Welsh was on the hotseat with all of his top scorers returning and garnering preseason top 25 votes. An opening week upset of then number 18 Arkansas showed the Friars could play with the most athletic teams in the country. After a victory at Boston College on Dec. 1, the wheels fell off. Going 10-16 the rest of the way, only six of the victories coming in conference threw the Friars in 12th place and almost missed the Big East tournament. As a result, a change was demanded and Tim Welsh was showed the door.
Enter former Drake coach Keno Davis. Davis resurrects Drake in one season and cashes in, getting a job which could change the landscape of the Providence program. Five of the top six scorers are back; the entire starting lineup returns promising another season of high expectations where they must come to play every night in an incredibly difficult Big East. They have size, 6’11 Randall Hanke and 6’11 Ray Hall both return however neither were forces on the defensive end, hurting the Providence frontcourt when in foul trouble. The guards are there and will be one of the deepest, best backcourts in the league. Jeff Xavier, Weyinmi Efejuku, Brian McKenzie and Geoff McDermott all return accounting for 45 points per game. Xavier will be the biggest piece to this Friar enigma as he must lead the team again but continue to score against the best defenses in the league. Luckily this season he should have help running the point with more experience around him.
One freshman on this Friar team means this team should come out clicking on all cylinders and ready to really turn some heads this season. So much experience, so much talent, so much athleticism and a new face at the head of the table means the sky is the limit for this squad. The schedule will get dicey quick as they travel out to the Anaheim Classic over Thanksgiving and they then will face a challenge every night in the league. Nothing should surprise this squad after last season’s debacle. I think this is a possible sweet-16 team on paper, but will in all reality be a bubbler come March.
The Golden Gophers graduated its top three scorers from a 20-win team a year ago which made their first postseason berth under Tubby Smith’s first season as head coach. Lawrence McKenzie, Dan Coleman and Spencer Tollackson combined for 33 points per game, half of the Gopher total. Minnesota started out the season 12-3 before coming back to reality during the conference play, winning one game against the upper tier of the conference. When a team must replace their top three scorers it never figures to be a positive atmosphere nor does it promise very much success, but this Minnesota team may be an exception. New acquisitions of a pair of 6’11 freshman bigs, Ralph Sampson III (son of UVA great Ralph Sampson) and Colton Iverson will make immediate impacts within the Big 10 and will make the back end of the Minnesota defense along with fifth year senior, 6’9 Jonathan Williams tough to crack. Junior Lawrence Westbrook and Blake Hoffarber return in the backcourt and both will move into prominent starting roles this year. An X-factor for Tubby Smith this season may be 6’8 juco-transfer forward Paul Carter. Carter adds height and athleticism to the frontcourt and swing game similar to a Tayshaun Prince-type player who Smith would love to emulate. Carter should see significant minutes as a big three for the Gophers this year.
This team will be incredibly young and could end up foiling and going 12-18 or so; but I really feel Smith will put this team together very quickly and let the newcomers gain confidence. With only two seniors on the team, and only one (Williams) expects to see time, this team will grow up quickly in the conference. Without question the best thing for this squad will be not leaving Minneapolis more than once in the non-con. Look for Minny to be rolling again and growing up as a team before crashing a little in the Big Ten season. I will not say an NCAA appearance is an expectation but with the talent here it is a realistic goal and possibility.
60. Providence
A high amount of talent combined with a high amount of experience normally yields the greatest kind of success a collection of individuals can have on a basketball court. Unfortunately for the Providence Friars and Tim Welsh, great expectations do not always warrant great success. Preseason expectations were set very high as Welsh was on the hotseat with all of his top scorers returning and garnering preseason top 25 votes. An opening week upset of then number 18 Arkansas showed the Friars could play with the most athletic teams in the country. After a victory at Boston College on Dec. 1, the wheels fell off. Going 10-16 the rest of the way, only six of the victories coming in conference threw the Friars in 12th place and almost missed the Big East tournament. As a result, a change was demanded and Tim Welsh was showed the door.Enter former Drake coach Keno Davis. Davis resurrects Drake in one season and cashes in, getting a job which could change the landscape of the Providence program. Five of the top six scorers are back; the entire starting lineup returns promising another season of high expectations where they must come to play every night in an incredibly difficult Big East. They have size, 6’11 Randall Hanke and 6’11 Ray Hall both return however neither were forces on the defensive end, hurting the Providence frontcourt when in foul trouble. The guards are there and will be one of the deepest, best backcourts in the league. Jeff Xavier, Weyinmi Efejuku, Brian McKenzie and Geoff McDermott all return accounting for 45 points per game. Xavier will be the biggest piece to this Friar enigma as he must lead the team again but continue to score against the best defenses in the league. Luckily this season he should have help running the point with more experience around him.
One freshman on this Friar team means this team should come out clicking on all cylinders and ready to really turn some heads this season. So much experience, so much talent, so much athleticism and a new face at the head of the table means the sky is the limit for this squad. The schedule will get dicey quick as they travel out to the Anaheim Classic over Thanksgiving and they then will face a challenge every night in the league. Nothing should surprise this squad after last season’s debacle. I think this is a possible sweet-16 team on paper, but will in all reality be a bubbler come March.
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