College Hoops Thread '10-'11
 

OK, you asked for it . . . or at the least, did not NOT ask for it . . . so here I go. Keep in mind that I could write 10 pages here as a preview, thus both wearing out my fingers and my welcome, but will limit myself in this initial post with a quick overview of the Top Ten Pre-season picks. Feel free to add your own comments, or ask about any other team, or request that I expand and justify any of my own remarks. And now, let's get to it:

#1 - Duke: Can the Blue Demons repeat as National Champions? Yes, they can. Will they? No way. This is not meant as a diss on Dook. They have a very good squad, and have to be favored in the ACC, at least until somebody proves otherwise. Barring disaster, you could safely pencil them into the field of 68 today. But repeats are hard, even for a team that dominated the previous year. Duke played well, but did not dominate. And though they added some excellent talent (perhaps more true talent than they lost), they will miss the size and experience they DID lose. Plus, although Singler is reportedly fully recovered from his off-season surgery, it still highlights the point that this team is one pulled hammie from contender to pretender.

#2 - Michigan State: Up until a few days ago, the Spartans were my pre-season pick to take it all this year . . . at last. Partly it's the team itself, partly it's respect for Izzo's skills, but mainly it's because I think they are due. If you go to the well often enough (think Carolina in 2007, 2008, and 2009), you're gonna get wet eventually. But there are some noises already coming out of East Lansing. Lucious is, for some reason, on Izzo's $#!+list, and won't play in their opener . . . at least. Plus, it seems that somebody always gets hurt on that team, which happens often, and especially in the brutal Big Ten. So now, ask me again come March.

#3 - Kansas State: No disrespect intended, but they're gonna hafta prove it to me, since I've heard this tale before. Yes, they have some real good players, and have again managed to lure another potential lottery pick to the other Manhattan. Yet until they actually DO something beside have a good year, I ain't buying any.

#4 Ohio State: To a degree, albeit a significantly lesser one, I feel much the same about the Buckeyes. Yes, they can contend for the conference. Yes, they can make a run in March. But will they be playing on the third weekend? Ehhhhhh . . . I'd guess not.

#5 Pittsburgh: And here's another team that has a history of disappointing expectations and fans. It seems every year we hear how powerful and deep are the Panthers, and it also seems that most years it's somebody else who comes out as the Beast of the East. So you see, the K-State Wildcats should not feel like I'm picking on them, for they are not the only . . . uh, "felines". ;)

#6 Villanova: And the kits just keep on coming. These Wildcats haven't done much since they knocked off Georgetown for the crown 25 years ago, and though I like the team, the coach, and the school, they need to step up some day.

#7 Kansas: This one is a harder call. The season for the Jayhawks may hinge on whether or not their top recruit Josh Selby is ever cleared to play. As his problem is one of academics, it is possible that he might miss the first half of their season yet be eligible for the second . . . and a run at all the marbles. But KU's best shot at another trophy might have been last year, and they were not able to show up to play.

#8 North Carolina: Last year the Heels began the season ranked #7, and finished it ranked #2 . . . in the NIT. I can predict with some degree of confidence that UNC will have a better year than was their previous campaign. However, for all these "experts" to say that Harrison Barnes is the 2nd-best player in the country, the predicted #1 pick in the 2011 NBA Draft, and the first freshman . . . EVER!! . . . to be named pre-season first-team All-American, before he's even played one damn second of college ball . . . please. Hey, as a Tar Heel myself, I wish the kid all the luck in the world, and hope he is a good as everybody says. But give me, and him, a break!

# 9 Florida: Billy Donovan's Gators haven't made much noise lately, so maybe they are due. With potential problems at Kentucky and Tennessee, and with Missouri being their only other "serious" competition in the SEC, it might be a year when the Gators CAN snap and growl. As for Billy himself . . . he's never stopped making noise, so I ain't worried on that score.

# 10 Syracuse: Last year the Orange began the season off of everyone's radar, and ended up near the top of the heap. This year they start off getting a fair amount of respect, and are thus set up to disappoint their fans. Don't misunderstand . . . Boeheim has some players, and his zone will always win a few games he maybe should not win. But it always loses him a few too. Also, he's not going to sneak up on any of the "haves" this year, and some of the Big East "have-nots" are improved.


The above is based on the pre-season AP poll, so if you're wondering about teams ranked in the Top 10 in other polls, like Kentucky and Purdue, then that's why. In short, regarding these two, UK won't be as good as they were last year, even if the NCAA clears Enes Kanter to play, and Purdue, who was a favorite to win it all last year until Robbie Hummel went down with his injury has already lost Hummel for the season.

If you have any questions or quarrels with the above, or if you want to know about YOUR team, or if you want to know if any mid-major will be "Butler-esque" this year, or if you merely have your own :2 to toss into the pot, please please feel free. Just like the sport itself, it's only a game, and it is supposed to be fun for one and all. Enjoy.

Re: College Hoops Thread '10-'11
 

Missouri is SEC competition????

It's going to be interesting to see what happens in the SEC this season, with the issues at UK and UT.

Looking forward to Murray State going back to the Dance again. Morehead State might ave been serious competition this year, and may still be, but I think they have some NCAA issues and consequences this season.

Which conference do you see as the most dominant this season?

Re: College Hoops Thread '10-'11
 

I really like Pitt this year!! :tu

Re: College Hoops Thread '10-'11
 

Missou Tiggers are ranked #15 in both polls, which we both know don't mean jack. But only the Gators and UK are ranked above them (in the SEC), and as you note, the Wildcats have some player issues. The Vols have some too, as well as a gun-shy coach problem.

Murray State may not be one of the "name" mid-majors (Gonzaga, Xavier, Dayton, Butler, Richmond, whoever), yet they have as much a chance as anyone . . . if they come to play. And yeah, I don't remember the particulars, but Morehead does have some $#!+ going on with the NCAA. I'll see if I can pull up the particulars.

Dominant conference? Off the top of my head, I'd pick the Big Ten. Behind them, probably the Big East and Big 12, then the thinner ACC and SEC. Of course, not only does this all depend on health and performance questions (such as, will Texas EVER play to their potential?), but also how problems at schools like UK and KU will shake out.

I like Pitt almost every year, but until they actuall DO something I'm not gonna LOVE them. Hell, I ain't even old enough to remember 1941, which was their first . . . and ONLY . . . trip to the Final Four. :r

Speaking of underachievers like Pitt and UT, both of them help kick off the action tonight:

# 5 Pittsburgh vs. Rhode Island = The Panthers host the Rams, and should open it up in the second half. But don't expect RI to roll over and play dead. They won 26 games last year, made the semis of the NIT, and return about 10 veterans. They will come to play.

# 13 Illinois vs. UC Irvine = If this turns out to be any more than a live scrimmage for the Illini, then I might have to reassess my ranking of the Big 10. The Anteaters had a crappy team last year, and the only change of note was their canning of the coach (Pat Douglass, who won a school-record 197 games yet still lost his job) to bring in fresh blood . . . at the wrong end of the bench. I can't name a single head coach who ever hit a game-winner from the sidelines.

Maryland vs. Seattle = The Terps lose much of their best talent, and return only 6 scholarship veterans. This should be more than enough to pluck the Redhawks. Seattle wasn't bad last year, but they weren't good either . . . and likely won't be this year too.

Texas vs. Navy = This would be the most interesting game of this first night . . . if David Robinson was still a Midshipman. He ain't. The Longhorns usually don't collapse until late in the season, so I'd expect a romp in Austin. But there's something going on down there, mark my word. News is they not only are losing out on a number of future recruits they were counting upon, but their redshirt freshman guard Shawn Williams just quit the team. I guess Rich Barnes never heeded Johnny Winter's warning: "There's so much $#!+ in Texas, you're bound to step in some."

That's all on tonight. I don't expect much quality action, but it's better than no college basketball at all. Enjoy.

Re: College Hoops Thread '10-'11
 

Yes, back at the end of August the NCAA placed Morehead State on 2 years probation for "recruiting violations related to booster activity." But their self-imposed sanctions (they ratted themselves out, which is always the best way to handle it) are not too serious. Aside from the loss of one scholarship, and a temporary reduction of recruiting days, visits, and calls, they have "a permanent ban from recruiting student athletes in all sports from the NIA school in Newark, N.J."

So, they are banned in perpetuity from Newark? Many would say that's a good thing. :r

Re: College Hoops Thread '10-'11
 

Have to agree with ya on the Newark ban ;). They were great competition to Murray State last season, so I expect good things from the "other" MSU this season.

Looking forward to the Maui Classic!!!

Re: College Hoops Thread '10-'11
 

As a Heel, I'm looking forward to ANYTHING, after last season. :r

I have to begin with a retraction, and apology. Twice above I mentioned Missouri as being competitive in the SEC this year. But they could go undefeated, and still not be a factor in the SEC, since they play in the Big 12. I could make the excuse that all the conference-jumping has me confused, yet you all know I need no excuse to be confused, so that won't pan out. I might also complain that all the Tigers and Wildcats in the college zoology got me boggled. There is truth to that, but it's more due to my puzzlement as to why supposedly smart college people have so little imagination, or so small a vocabulary. Fact is, however, it was just a brain-fart on my part . . . not the first, but the first of many to follow on this thread.

Now, to the action:

# 5 Pittsburgh 83 - Rhode Island 75 = Did I not tell you that the Rams were pretty tough? Pitt had to rally from 8 down to finally fleece them, and escaped at home the first "upset" of the new season.

# 13 Illinois 79 - UC Irvine 65 = Maybe I picked the Big Ten to be the class of this year too soon. Yeah, the Illini opened up an early 42-18 lead, but the Anteaters ate much of that away. A 14-point victory is no better than "meh", especially as the game was in Champaign.

Texas 83 - Navy 52 = Now, this is more like what these "early' games should be. Playing with 4 new starters, the Longhorns had a 23-9 run shortly after the break, and this sunk the Midshipmen's battleship.

Maryland 105 - Seattle 76 = Now, this is exactly like what these games should be. Playing their first game in 4 years without Greivis Vasquez on the court, the Terps committed 29 turnovers, yet STILL ran the Redhawks right outta College Park.


There are no games scheduled for this evening, so you will have to wait until tomorrow night to . . . enjoy.

Re: College Hoops Thread '10-'11
 

Well, it's tomorrow night, and the Coaches v. Cancer games continue with:

# 5 Pittsburgh vs. Ill. Chicago = And that's what I'd expect, too . . . ill Chicago. I don't care how many suicides new coach Howard Ryan had his Flames run up that hill by Soldier's Field, the Panthers won't care what condition their condition is in. Pitt got it's scare against Rhode Island, and should be focused enough to blow out the Flames, windsprints be damned.

# 13 Illinois vs. Toledo = Speaking of flameouts, the Rockets went 11-53 the last two seasons. I don't care how hard their new coach Todd Kowalczyk has worked his team, he is not THAT Coach K, and doesn't have that personnel. The Illini should prevail, big.

Maryland vs. Charleston = OK, we may have us a game here. I'm not going to pick the Cougars over the Terps, but Charleston has some players, and Bobby Cremins ain't afraid to play an ACC team. If the Terps are as sloppy with the ball as they were in their opener, this could be a scare . . . or an upset.

Texas vs. Louisiana Tech = The Bulldogs won their twenty the last two years, but they lost the better part of that team. They will also lose their first of this season in Austin tonight.


Tomorrow is another "off" night, but Friday will have a ton, a TON, of games. Some of them might even be good. Until then, then, enjoy.

Re: College Hoops Thread '10-'11
 

Being a Buckeye fan I'm excited about the upcoming season. We have some leadership back and some very special freshmen. But, I'm not sure they have enough beef in the middle to contend with some of the more physical teams. It should be a great season though.

Re: College Hoops Thread '10-'11
 

Damn...Pitt barely got my Rhode Island. Here we go again.

Re: College Hoops Thread '10-'11
 

I could see OSU making some noise this year. And though beef down low is important for defense and boarding, the college game is often more one of guards and wings. It will be interesting to see how this team develops.

Well, Mac I told you . . . twice even. First, I said that Pitt has never fully proven themselves to me, as there is a big difference between "good" and "great". Then, I flat-out said that Rhode Island is one feisty herd of Rams, and not some meek flock of sheep to be fleeced. But last night's game should make you feel a bit better:

# 5 Pittsburgh 97 - Ill. Chicago 54 = If you didn't see this spanking coming, you're not paying attention. It does not take a "great" team, but only a "good" one, to respond to a scare by stomping the next David that shows up in Goliath's gym.

But it wasn't a completely lost night for the state of Illinois:

# 13 Illinois 84 - Toledo 45 = This is more like the whipping the Illini should have handed out to UC Irvine in their opener, yet it still don't mean jack. We'll have to wait a few weeks to see what they have, after they visit Texas, host North Carolina, then go see Gonzaga. That may tell you something.

Speaking of Texas:

Texas 89 - Louisiana Tech 58 = Once again, you can't say I didn't warn you. This game, as well as the previous two, were in the books before the tip-off. Maybe had it been the ladies playing instead, it might have been a better game. But the Longhorns don't lose games like this one . . . they normally wait until they actually count.

And just to prove to you that I'm not totally clueless on the subject of college basketball:

Maryland 75 - Charleston 74 = Heeheeheeheehee. And Maryland had to come back for this, since they were down by 8 with 8 to play. I knew . . . I KNEW! . . . Charleston would give the Terps fits. People outside the South may not know these boys, but they should be looked at the same way Gonzaga on the other coast is considered. No, the won't ever win a National Championship, but they don't mind one bit beating one every now and then. This is a good program, and Bobby Cremins is at least as good a coach as is Gary Williams.


There are no games this evening, but I might be back a bit later to start the preview of Friday's marathon early madness. One way or the other . . . enjoy.

Re: College Hoops Thread '10-'11
 

Scary what Bruce Weber landed as a recruiting class for the Fighting Illini during this past weekend.

Re: College Hoops Thread '10-'11
 

I looked for a "smilie" that said "THIS POST IS WORTHLESS WITHOUT NAMES", but I couldn't find one. :r Give me a few of them, and I'll tell you if it scares me too. Regardless, I don't think they'll win Illinois many games THIS year.

Being early in the season, it is hard to tell what games have meaning, and which are meaningless. Hey, are you gonna tell me you foresaw the seasons Butler and Northern Iowa had last year . . . or the season U. Conn or my Tar Heels did? So I'm going to give a quick rundown now of the contests involving ranked teams tomorrow, then try to go back later to pick out a few that . . . at the least . . interest me.

As for "Name Games", we'll have:

# 2 Michigan State vs. Eastern Michigan = An in-state battle that won't be much of one.

# 3 Kansas State vs. James Madison = In past years, JMU may have given K-State a game. This is not a past year.

# 4 Ohio State vs. N.C. A&T = Do you really have to wonder?

# 6 Villanova vs. Bucknell = Were this one of those scholar's College Bowls, we'd have a contest. But as it's not in the boardroom, but on the hardwood, we won't.

# 7 Kansas vs. Longwood = It seems the Jayhawks still won't have Josh Selby for this game. They won't need him, either.

# 8 North Carolina vs. Lipscomb = The Heels should be better this season. They won't have to be to win this one.

# 9 Florida vs. N.C. Wilmington = Off the top of my head, I could name a dozen teams from the Old North State who could give the Gators a better test.

# 10 Syracuse vs. Northern Iowa = Were this last year's NI team, this would be interesting, with their tough man-to-man pitted against the Orange zone. But this isn't last year's Northern Iowa team. Yet it ain't last year's 'Cuse team either. This could be half a game, for a half or so.

# 11 Kentucky vs. East Tennessee State = This shouldn't be half a game after the first ten minutes, even if Enes isn't "freed" . . . or if somebody else isn't "bought" on his behalf.

# 12 Gonzaga vs. Southern = The Zags are much too cocky for their own good, and will likely never be as good as they think they are. But they don't lose games like this one.

# 16 Baylor vs. Grambling State = The Bears had, for them, a phenomenal season last year. I don't expect this one to be better, but it won't get worse with this type of competition.

# 19 Memphis vs. Centenary = And by contrast, the Tigers had a "bad" season in the C-USA, at least by their normal standards. If their young talent, and young coach, are as good as their reputations, they will start their turnaround with a total walkover.

# 20 Georgetown vs. Old Dominion = Hmmmmmm. HMMMMMMMMM! Now, wait a second here. Could we actually have a real game here? The Hoyas have not been world-beaters in recent years, and the Monarchs were pretty damn good last year . . . and might even be better this one. If you only have time to watch one game tomorrow, this could be the one to pick.

# 21 Virginia Tech vs. Campbell = And this might be the one to skip. No, the Hokies ain't that great, and the Camels ain't that bad, but thing is . . . who cares? :r

# 22 Temple vs Seton Hall = The Owls have a decided edge here, and would even IF the Pirates hadn't had such a soap-opera going on the last few months. Next year, or maybe the next, and this could be more fun. This year, I'd expect the Hall to play as though lost . . . spelled with a LOT of "L"'s.

# 23 Tennessee vs. Chattanooga = And speaking of soap-operas, the Vols have had their share too. As for the Mocs, they may be better than they were, and could hang for a good part of this match-up. But just because they are not the "Mocks" does not mean they can win in Knoxville.

# 24 BYU vs. Fresno State = BYU is another of those teams I refuse to bvelieve in, until they prove me otherwise. Fresno State lost some key players from last year's squad, but still have a pretty decent team. It would not shock me if the Cougars and the Bulldogs have a real fight here.


So this is a quick breakdown of the "haves", and tomorrow I hope to get back to you about the "have-less". As for the "hapless" . . . well, you're reading his post now. Enjoy.

Re: College Hoops Thread '10-'11
 

Speaking of Rhode Island, I remember a Murray State team that played them in Round 1 of the Dance several years back. One of MSU's better teams, led by future pro Marcus Brown. Jim Harrick's team tore them apart in the 2nd half, as MSU choked and started playing street ball instead of good, team B'ball. Where is Harrick these days anyway? Scandals ran him out of a couple of place, I remember, but have not heard of him in a few years now, or his son.

Re: College Hoops Thread '10-'11
 

According to Wikipedia, Harrick Sr. is now an analyst for Prime Ticket, a Southern California affiliate of Faux Sports Net. As for Junior, I don't know what he's up to, after he followed in his father's footsteps by getting booted out of Georgia for cheating and lying . . . like daddy did both there and earlier at UCLA. :r

And speaking of cheating and lying, it's time for me to pick my first 'Cat-fight with the Kentucky fans. The NCAA has decided that Enes Kanter will NOT be allowed to play for UK, due to his receipt of pay and benefits from a Turkish pro team over the previous two years. Calipari is not happy, and Kentucky will appeal this decision . . . naturally. As we all know, the only thing that matters in Lexington is winning, not how it is done.

If these dang customers stop coming in, nickel-and-diming me to death, I'll be back with a post on other action tonight.

Re: College Hoops Thread '10-'11
 

Before I'm damned for being unfair, let me point out that UK is not the only team starting the season with a "problem" player on/off the roster. Aside from Josh Selby at Kansas (academics), Georgetown's freshman center Moses Ayegba will miss the first 9 games because someone who was NOT a family member bought him a ticket from Nigeria to the US years ago, before he started high school here, and well before the Hoyas recruited him. John Thompson III is not happy that the NCAA rejected his appeal, yet though he has more reason to be upset than does Calipari, this John is moving on. Also in the Big East, Villanova freshman forward JayVaughn Pinkston will not be allowed to play, at the school's discretion, until his recent problem with assault charges are resolved. And Minnesota junior guard Devoe Joseph was suspended for violation of team rules.


It should be no surprise how hard it is to predict what team will be good and which games will be important this early in the season. Even considering only the supposedly best teams, it's dollars to donuts that at least a dozen of the pre-season Top 25 will drop out of the ranks at some point this year. Hey, it ain't rocket science, since that is based upon certain immutable priciples of physics, and can be predicted to a large extent. One is better served by channelling Socrates, and admitting that you know you do not know. This all being a given, let me share with you a few of tonight's games outside the rankings which interest me:

At this moment, with 5 minutes left, Gardner-Webb holds a 6-point lead over UNC-Charlotte. If this is any indication, the 49ers might be 86ers this year.

Virginia vs. William & Mary = As with many of these games, neither team is either bad nor good. And that's what may make it fun.

Princeton vs. Rutgers = The Battle of New Jersey . . . for what it's worth.

N.C. State vs. Tennessee Tech = My interest here is based more on what the Wolfpack may have this year. Lowe managed to snag a few good recruits, and they could be a factor in the middle of the ACC . . . though I doubt if they'll reach the summit.

Xavier vs. Western Michigan = The X-men have a consistently good program, so I'm always curious about how they play.

Miami vs. Jacksonville = And here's one of those proto-typical "so-so" match-ups that can lead to a real barn-burner.

St. Joseph's vs. Western Kentucky = Any old-timer like me would like to see the Hawks flying high again, after last year's broken-wing flop. They are supposed to have a few good additions, and this will be a decent early test.

Tulsa vs. App. State = Here again, two who may both come to play.


So, there you have some of my picks. Feel free to post your own, and . . . enjoy.

Re: College Hoops Thread '10-'11
 

Well, Gardner-Webb DID beat Charlotte, 78-70. Also, Kent State and Iona are in a 1-point struggle, with just under 8 minutes to go.

Re: College Hoops Thread '10-'11
 

Gotta say, as much as I despise the Hoyas, they should have won their appeal for that player. That sucks!!!!

As for the Cats, I figured they were stretching it on Enes, but it would have been nice to have had him.

Re: College Hoops Thread '10-'11
 

Personally, I'm a stickler for the rules, and though I do agree that the Hoyas got screwed a bit, it is what it is. Man up, suck it up, and move along. Just my :2 , and worth every penny.

Gotta say, as much as I confess my dislike the Wildcats, I'm of one and a half minds about Enes. A part of me feels bad for the young man, yet he made his bed, thus has no reason to complain if it has lumps. As for UK, they can't in all honesty expect me to believe they did not know what Kanter was doing the last 2 years, so any defense of ignorance or unfairness falls on deaf ears. Hell, we're not talking about a "Jim Thorpe" situation here. Yet once again, just my :2.

Once I get a little work done, I'll be back to review yesterday's action, and preview some of this weekend's.

Re: College Hoops Thread '10-'11
 

Most of Friday's action were the blowouts one would expect this time of year, what with the big boys holding scrimmages against the also-rans, and never-rans, of college ball, but I did find a baker's dozen of notable scores:

# 3 Kansas State 75 - James Madison 61 = Yes, it's a win. Yes, it's double-digits. But for a program with "national" aspirations, it is not much of a statement . . . or at least, a POSITIVE one.

# 8 North Carolina 80 - Lipscomb 66 = Ditto. Highly-touted (or hyped, if you prefer) freshman Harrison Barnes had a better game than he did in his exhibition debut against Div. II Barton, but the Heels could not shake the pesky Bisons until late . . . and that's no bull.

# 9 Florida 70 - N.C. Wilmington 60 = Dit-3. If Billy Donovan plans to shake up the SEC this year, he needs his boys to do better than this.

# 20 Georgetown 62 - Old Dominion 59 = I had a feeling this would be one hell of a game. ODU had 2 leads of 8 points in the second half, and the Hoyas needed a 13-2 run to swipe one from the Monarchs.

# 21 Virginia Tech 70 - Campbell 60 = And we're back to the "no damn good excuse for this" catagory. A 10-point win against the depleted Camels? In Blacksburg? Please.

# 22 Temple 62 - Seton Hall 56 = So, here's the cream of the A-10 against the dregs of the Big East, and in Philly to boot. Not a good sign for the Owls.


Amongst the unranked (as of today, anyway):


N.C. Asheville 70 - Auburn 69 (OT) = It's a bit of a shock to me. Hey, I realize Auburn's not the hoops program it used to be, but . . . c'mon.

Georgia 72 - Miss. Valley State 70 = Speaking of the SEC, aren't the Bulldogs supposed to be a darkhorse in the conference? If this is any judge, not likely.

Kent State 73 - Iona 72 = I noted late yesterday that these two decent mid-majors were in a barn-burner. Seems like it burned to the ground.

Princeton 78 - Rutgers 73 = The Tigers are supposed to compete for the Ivy this year. The Scarlet Knights are supposed to improve, next year. So, no surprise here . . . but still. Yes, it's early, but so far the Big East hasn't been all that big.

Stetson 89 - Wake Forest 79 = Nor is this much of a statement for the ACC. Everybody predicted the Deacs would not be very demonic this year, but . . . sheesh!

Appalachian State 89 - Tulsa 86 = So, Asheville won in Alabama, and the boys from Boone won in Oklahoma. There's a party in those hills today! Ya-HOOOOOO! Mountain Do-It-To-You!

Xavier 68 - Western MIchigan 65 = The Musketeers should have ridden the rebuilding Broncos right out of the gym, yet needed a big 2nd half to nudge them out the exit. This, as well as many of the above scores, makes me wonder if it is just because it's early, or if this season will be one confusing cluster-fark.


There are a goodly number of games today, but few of them seem interesting. For instance, who really cares, one way or the other, that Buffalo has already stomped Navy, 88-46? But I'll take another look through them, and be back later with some selections . . . with emphasis NOT on the "select" part of that word.

Re: College Hoops Thread '10-'11
 

I've already indicated that it's pretty slim pickin's this weekend, but I found a handful or three which, for one or another reason, struck my jaundiced eye. Today:

# 5 Pittsburgh vs. North Florida = If this isn't over by the half, the Panthers are not for real. This will be Pitt's 3rd game, so that "it's early" excuse is wearing thin.

# 13 Illinois vs. Southern Illinois = Not exactly the same as above, but, yeah, pretty much so too.

# 17 Butler vs. Marian = And though Butler has an excuse, as it may take them a month to stop looking around for Gordon Hayward, nota bene . . . it's a Div. II opponent. And, at the moment, Butler's only up 6, nearing the break.

# 18 Washington vs. McNeese State = Last year the Pac-10 gave some evidence in the Tournament that they were not nearly as bad as the experts said. This game won't give any evidence to support that, as even a 50-point win proves jack.

# 25 San Diego State vs. Long Beach State = I don't expect the Aztecs to stay in the Top 25 very long. However, I don't expect them to drop out with a loss here.

Dayton vs. Mount St. Mary's = Dayton is the defending NIT champ, and Mount St. Mary's has a good history . . . though not recently. I picked this game before it tipped, and so far it's pretty close. I expect the Flyers to open it up, however.

George Mason vs. Harvard = GM was the darling of the NCAAs a few years back, and the Crimson made a jump from pretenders to contenders in the Ivy last season. Could be a pretty decent contest.

Iona vs. Cleveland State = Except for the particulars, same here. Decent programs, so a decent shot at a game.

Penn vs. Davidson = Here again . . . though I must admit that much of my fascination with this match-up is seeing the wealthy and priviledged banging heads and sweating bullets.

Weber St. vs. Utah St. = Unless my memory fails me, these two schools match up fairly well. Could be fun.


I'm gonna take my luch now, and will be back with early finals, and Sunday games. Until then . . . enjoy.

Re: College Hoops Thread '10-'11
 

Both Butler and Dayton have their respective games well in hand, with under 8 to play, just as one would expect. No shocks this afternoon.

Sunday's games will include:

# 1 Duke vs. Princeton = Doubtless the Dookie fanatics will be looking for a 40-point laugher. I think it will be half of that, or even a tad less, but it should be a W to begin their defense of the title. The Blue Devils are the superior team, but the Tigers are not the walk-overs that most big programs schedule for their openers.

# 10 Syracuse vs. Canisius = Again, I don't expect much of a contest. It's not because the Orange is that dominant, nor Canisius that terrible, but the skill level is not . . . level, that is. Jim Boeheim ain't the only one a full bubble off. ;)

# 12 Gonzaga vs. IUPUI = Seems like I remember something about IUPUI getting hammered by the NCAA for . . . something. I recall no details, and I could be wrong completely. But it shouldn't matter either way. The Zags, as I've said before, are NEVER as good as their mouths claim they are, but they are decidedly better than WTFAT (Who-The-Fark-Are-Them).

# 14 Purdue vs. Howard = Even without Hummel, the Boilermakers should steam-roller here.

# 22 Temple vs. Toledo = The Owls didn't exactly dominate Seton Hall, but I don't believe the Rockets can even get off the pad this year. If this one's not done by halftime, it's time to fire Fran.

Kent State vs. Cleveland State = Here, there's a possibility for some entertainment.

Indiana vs. Wright State = Here too. Besides, I'm always interested in seeing a program like the Hoosiers get back on track.

Notre Dame vs. Liberty = And on a Sunday, no less. I'm not sure the game will be that great, nor do I much care, but if we're lucky maybe another Reformation War will break out between the Papists and the Heretics. For Country, and God . . . mine, not yours! :D


That's it. That's all I got, for now. Until next week, enjoy.

Re: College Hoops Thread '10-'11
 

"Personally, I'm a stickler for the rules, and though I do agree that the Hoyas got screwed a bit, it is what it is. Man up, suck it up, and move along. Just my , and worth every penny."

I'm not up on the situation or the rules applying. Got any details? If this young man was given a chance before high school to come here and live, how did the Sanctified Ones decide he was verbotten?

I also seem to remember something regarding IUPUI having some issues last season.

Re: College Hoops Thread '10-'11
 

My knowledge of the NCAA rules are vague too (as some would argue the rules themselves are), but as I understand it any student athlete puts his amateur status at risk if he accepts anything . . . and I do mean ANYTHING . . . from anybody who is not related to said athlete, in the fear that a gift of any sort may influence him or her. For instance, a football player at my alma mater got investigated a month or so back because it came to light that he received a wristband to attend a pool party. And you may recall that John Wall had to sit out a few early games for UK last season because of $850 he got from his AAU coach while in high school, despite the fact that Wall repaid the coach. As for this Hoya player getting an airline ticket from Nigeria to the USA, which would be . . . what, maybe $1,000 value? . . . I can, as I said before, understand why Georgetown feels it should not be their problem, as they did not (as far as I know) have anything to do with it. On the other hand, a 9-game suspension at the beginning of the season, especially since the kid's only a freshman, is merely a rap on the knuckles at worst, and a slap on the wrist at best.

As for IUPUI, all 14 of their athletic programs face sanctions due to violations involving "an office outside the athletic department which tracks athletic eligibility". The violations were self-reported, the sanctions were self-imposed and upheld by the NCAA, and include 3 years probation, the loss of some scholarships, and the vacation of victories in 6 sports from 2003-07, including 18 men's basketball wins from '03-04.

I'll be back in a bit with your normal broadcasting schedule.

Re: College Hoops Thread '10-'11
 

Nah, 40 is about right as the starters only played half of the second half. :D

And as you know, you can't defend something that can't be taken away. Duke is pursuing the '10-'11 Championship along with everyone else.

Kyrie Irving is a super-star in the making. I can't tell you how impressed with him I am and when Seth Curry is on, he really is a Curry. The only problem/dissapointment I see is that Irving will probably be NBA bound after this year.

Agreed. They easily could have made in ineligible for the year.

Re: College Hoops Thread '10-'11
 

This first weekend of the season was pretty damn dull, which is to be expected to some extent, but perhaps not to this degree. What games that were not the pre-ordained blow-outs were otherwise fairly meaningless, or at least uninteresting. In fact, I did not see one single score from Saturday's action which piqued my pickle, so I'm gonna skip it completely. Of course, if any of YOU have one you'd like to post, please join in and do so. Sunday's action was little better, yet I did spot a few of note, minimal as it be:

Cleveland State 69 - Kent State 66 = Two mid-majors who are at least OK gave us a game.

Eastern Kentucky 64 - Indiana State 59 (OT) = Same story here.

Oregon 72 - UCSB 70 = What got me here was two things. First, it's not much of a win for a Pac-10 team over a "Who???" program like UCSB. Second, and in emphasis, UCSB had been beaten the day before 68-60 by powerhouse North Dakota State. So, does this mean the Pac-10 will get dissed all this year too? We shall see.

Finally, before I give you some games this evening, it perhaps is incumbant to give one final congratulations to the 2010 NCAA Champs by reporting:

On Sunday the Duke Blue Devils celebrated, first by channelling their inner Elizabeth Arden and slapping another coat of lipstick on that pig of a place, Cameron Indoor Sty-dium with their 2010 banner, then by defeating the school they pretend to be by crushing Princeton University 97-60. Yet, to be fair, neither the environment not the outcome would have been much different had the game been held in Jadwin Gym. :r


There are a few games involving ranked teams this evening, and a few others that may be pretty decent . . . or not:

# 7 Kansas vs. Valparaiso = Unless you're an alum of either school, don't bother tuning in.

# 19 Memphis vs. Miami = This one could be a bit better, but if UM's young talent can produce they should prevail over . . . uh, UM.

# 20 Georgetown vs. Tulane = If this does not go easier for the Hoyas than did their opener against ODU, then they are in deep trouble. I fully expect it shall go easier, however.

Richmond vs. William & Mary = This could be a snoozer, but for some reason I've just got a feeling. Yeah, I know . . . they make creams for that.

Pacific vs. Nevada = It's that same itch here again.

Murray State vs. East Tennessee State = Damn, it's starting to drive me nuts . . . or, to be more truthful, "putt" me nuts.

Minnesota vs. Siena = You Big Ten fans may think I'm kidding here, but I ain't.

USC vs. Santa Clara = You Pac-10 fans may think I'm kidding here, but I ain't.

St. Mary's vs. St. John's = Aside from the obvious "forbidden love" reason, I've just got that itch again. Ohhhhhh, John! Ohhhhhh, Mary! ;)



That's about it for now. Enjoy.

Re: College Hoops Thread '10-'11
 

Point A: True dat, but it still sounds like you're already making excuses. :r

Point B: Yeah, I'm curious to see Irving in action myself, just as I'm curious to see if Seth is half the shooter as his brother, or his daddy. And as for Irving being "one-and-done", I'll make you a deal: I'll do all I can to convince him to stay for a few years, if you do the same to persuade Harrison Barnes to stay in school. ;)

Re: College Hoops Thread '10-'11
 

Deal! :noon

And yes, Seth is a deadly spot-up shooter.

Re: College Hoops Thread '10-'11
 

Not many of the games last night were all that good, either despite or due to my itches, but a few scores jumped out at me:

# 19 Memphis 72 - Miami 68 = Yes, Josh Pastner has a young team. Yes, he has already kicked one of those freshmen off his squad. But to struggle like this with a so-so Miami team does not bode well.

Clemson 78 - Wofford 70 = And in Littlejohn, no less. Again, not a very good win.

Kennesaw State 80 - Georgia Tech 63 = But it ain't half as bad as this terrible loss. Sure, everybody expected the Yellow Jackets to be down this year, yet I myself did not think they'd be this rambled a wreck.

Oklahoma 71 - N.C. Central 63 (OT) = Even though the Sooners did wake up in the extra session, it is another crappy win. Speaking of waking up . . .

Wake Forest 63 - Hampton 56 = As with Ga. Tech, the Deacs are supposed to be down. This shows just how down.

Providence 58 - Yale 55 = The Friars haven't been a Big East factor in a while. The Elis aren't supposed to be one in the Ivy. This game may mean nothing in the long haul, but it sure is odd.

St. Mary's 76 - St. John's 71 = At long last, one of my "picks" for games last night actually turned out to be a decent one. Hey, even a blind hog finds an acorn every now and then.


Action has already started today, most notably (so far) being # 17 Baylor's win over La Salle 74-64. That's an OK victory, but not a bold statement by the Bears. In other finals, Stony Brook, Kent State, and Northeastern have also won, with Norteastern outscoring Southern Illinois 3-2 in OT. Sheesh. Plus, as we speak # 3 Kansas State and # 22 Virginia Tech are having a war in Manhattan heading towards the half, in this first real test for both programs. I'll keep you posted. Later on, look for these games:

# 1 Duke vs. Miami OH = Another scrimmage for the Blue Devils.

# 2 Michigan State vs. South Carolina = This could be half a game, by which I mean the 'Cocks could be game for a half. If it is the second half, they might even pullet the upset.

# 4 Ohio State vs. # 9 Florida = And if this one isn't a game, then one of these coaches is going to be p!$$ed.

# 6 Villanova vs. Marist = And if this one's not over by the break, Jay Wright won't be right for days.

# 10 Syracuse vs. Detroit = I don't think there's any way Detroit can beat the Orange. I also don't think there's any way all but the most fanatic fans won't fall asleep during this one.

# 11 Gonzaga vs. # 25 San Diego State = Remember a few days ago, me saying that I didn't think the Aztecs would stay in the rankings very long? Well, here you go . . . and there they go.

# 16 Butler vs. Louisville = After what they did last season, I don't wish to diss Butler. Plus, I'm neither a Cardinal nor a Pitino fan. But it would not shock me to see the Bulldogs get bitten, here in the opening game at the new KFC Crum-bucket Arena.

# 17 Washington vs. Eastern Washington = If the Pac-10 wants to regain any props at all, this needs to be a blow-out.

# 24 Tennessee vs. Belmont = Hmmm. Were I a betting man, I may put a few bucks on the Vols. But it would only be a few bucks. UT is in turmoil, Pearl is in a pickle, and Belmont is no patsy.

Wake Forest vs. VCU = If the Deacs play like they did against Hampton, they'll get their cassocks altered.

Georgia vs. Colorado = Here are a pair of darkhorses who could give us a close one.

Florida State vs. Gardner-Webb = No, I'm not joking here. Gardner-Webb's win over UNC-Charlotte means one hell of a lot more than the Seminoles' one over UNC-Greensboro.

New Mexico vs. Arizona State = Desert warfare here, with two programs trying to move up a level.


At the half, K-State leads the Hokies by a point, 30-29. Hold on to your hats.

Re: College Hoops Thread '10-'11
 

Hokies up 2, 15:16 left.



Whoops! Now it's tied @ 38 all.

Re: College Hoops Thread '10-'11
 

Wildcats have opened up 6-point lead with 11:00 to play.

Re: College Hoops Thread '10-'11
 

Up 7, 8:08. Hokies need some stops.

Re: College Hoops Thread '10-'11
 

Up 9, 6 1/2. Just checked the boxscore, and it's brick city out there. Both teams shooting about 32% from the field, and 50% from the stripe. Criminy . . . or criminal.

Re: College Hoops Thread '10-'11
 

With under 5 to play, K-State 64-49. I would like to say they are pullin' away, but Pullen's only scored 11 of those.

Re: College Hoops Thread '10-'11
 

Under 4 minutes, and Wildcats have it in hand, 66-49. Also, those other Wildcats, Villanova, have already doubled-up on Marist 2/3rds through the first.

Re: College Hoops Thread '10-'11
 

It's all over in Manhattan . . . Kansas, that is. K-State 73-57 over Hokies. And it should be all over in Villanova too, but those 'Cats are only up a dozen heading towards the half. Meanwhile, it's just started in Gainsville, with the Buckeyes and Gators trading early jabs.

Re: College Hoops Thread '10-'11
 

It's about time to lock up and go home, so I'll leave you by saying 'Nova has an unimpressive 13-point edge early in the 2nd, while the Gators have a pretty meaningless 6-point advantage with 7 left in the first . . . though that's better than being down 6, I'll grant you. With that, I'm out for today. Enjoy.

Re: College Hoops Thread '10-'11
 

Again, skipping over the blow-outs (for the most part, anyway) and the "who the fark cares" games, the balance of yesterday's action included:

# 4 Ohio State 93 - # 9 Florida 75 = Here's that one spanking which is notable. This game was close, then all of a sudden it wasn't. Plus, it was in Gainsville. It is too early to say the Buckeyes are that good, or the Gators over-rated, or if this was just one of those games teams sometimes have, when somebody puts a lid on their basket. Hell, my Heels had a dozen of those last year. In a month or three, we'll know better.

# 2 Michigan State 82 - South Carolina 73 = Some Spartan faithful might be concerned that this game got this close. Shoot, if the 'Cocks had had even a so-so first half (they only scored 25 before the break), this would have been a nail-biter. But remember that SC was the first team to beat Kentucky last season, so a walkover was not likely.

# 10 Syracuse 66 - Detroit 55 = Unlike the one above, this win would worry me a bit, were I Orange and not Blue. The 55 allowed is just fine. The 66 scored is pitiful.

# 25 San Diego State 79 - # 11 Gonzaga 76 = Here's one that shocks me. I mean no diss to the Aztecs, despite my predictions regarding them, but the Zags just don't lose games like this in Spokane. What factor the loss to injury of their star forward Elias Harris late in the game was to Gonzaga getting nipped, I can't say. But if they have lost him for a good portion of the season, and if their performance here is a true indication, the Zags may have a longer (or would that be shorter?) season than they are accustomed to. As for the Aztecs, good for you. Keep it up.

Louisville 88 - # 16 Butler 73 = This one does not shock me at all. Not only is L'ville a decent team with a storied past, with a winning coach, and opening up a new building, but a program that loses a player like Hayward will have those games when they are still looking around for somebody else to make a play. So, for those of you who were looking forward to that upcoming Duke/Butler rematch . . . you ain't gettin' it.

Virginia Commonwealth 90 - Wake Forest 69 - And I end the recap with another blow-out, significant for a different reason. VCU is a pretty good program, so the win should not be a surprise. However, the size of it may give you just some indication of how far down the Deacs have slipped.


Tonight's action will feature:


#6 Villanova vs. Boston U. = Don't expect much of a fight from BU here.

# 14 Purdue vs. Alcorn State = Nor here.

# 19 Memphis vs. Northwestern State = And as I've never even HEARD of N'western State, not here either.

# 23 BYU vs. Utah State = OK, may be a game for a half and a half, though maybe not for two halves.

# 24 Tennessee vs. Missouri State = Ibid.

South Alabama vs. Southern Mississippi = OK, may be a game.

Murray State vs. Mississippi = OK, will be a game.

Wisc. Green Bay vs. Marquette = Neither program is what it was once, so could be competitive.


Of course, you never know when some game you don't expect pops up and becomes a battle royale, so keep you ears on. In all cases . . . enjoy.

Re: College Hoops Thread '10-'11
 

I've gotten a late start on this today (damn work! damn customers!), so lemme jump on it. Yesterday, of note:

# 6 Villanova 82 - Boston U. 66 = Does not sound all that close, but BU only scored 24 in the first half, then played 'Nova even in the second. The fans may be happy, but I'd bet Jay Wright isn't.

# 23 BYU 78 - Utah St. 72 = I thought this would be a close game, and it was closer than the Cougars wanted.

# 24 Tenn. 60 - Missouri State 56 = Same story here.

Seattle 83 - Oregon State 80 = And here we go again, with the "WTF happened to the Pac-10" trashing.

Chattanooga 73 - Kennesaw St. 69 = And why pick this one? Well, the Mocs got their first win, and Kennesaw took their first loss . . . after stomping Ga. Tech.

Ole Miss 77 - Murray State 61 = This is for all those MSU fans out there. Hey, I know there's one of you, at least.


Today action has already kicked off. Down in Puerto Rico, at the annual Bobby Knight Memorial Chair-Toss Competition, WVa has beaten Davidson 84-70, and Vandy "outscored" Nebraska 59-49 in what I assume was basketball, not football. And, at the half, UNC holds a slim edge over Hofstra at 58-33. My Heels did not need to play better than they did in their opener to take this game, as it seems they are on their way to doing, but they needed to do considerably better to give evidence they deserve a ranking, much less a Top Ten one. Maybe they are doing so. In other games to follow, there or elsewhere, keep an eye on:


# 3 Kansas State vs. Presbyterian = There are not enough prayers out there to spare one for Presbyterian. The Blue Hose get hosed.

# 5 Pitt vs. Maryland = Don't let Pitt's ranking, or the Terps "problems" with Charleston, fool you. This will be a test for both teams, and could be a tight one. Give Pitt the edge, but don't expect a spanking.

# 9 Florida vs. N.C. A&T = The Gators bounce back from their whipping by the Buckeyes . . . for what it's worth.

# 13 Illinois vs. Texas = Yeah, this has a shot at being a total war.

# 15 Missouri vs. Western Ill. = This, not so much.

# 17 Baylor vs. Jackson State = Nor this.

Minnesota vs. Western Kentucky = OK, now this one's a bit better. No, quite a bit better.

N.C. State vs. East Carolina = And this one could be good too. If nothing else, it may give us a chance to see if the Wolfpack's touted recruits can actually play.

Virginia vs. Stanford = They may be bottom-dwellers, but it is still an ACC/Pac-10 matchup. Could turn into a fight.


I may be back today, I may not. Regardless . . . enjoy.

Re: College Hoops Thread '10-'11
 

Just checked the boxscore on Heels/Hofstra, which is turning into a laugher. Midway thru the second, UNC is 11-18 from the charity stripe . . . and 10-12 from beyond the arc. Whoa!

Re: College Hoops Thread '10-'11
 

[quote=The Poet;1065129]

# 25 San Diego State 79 - # 11 Gonzaga 76 = Here's one that shocks me. I mean no diss to the Aztecs, despite my predictions regarding them, but the Zags just don't lose games like this in Spokane. What factor the loss to injury of their star forward Elias Harris late in the game was to Gonzaga getting nipped, I can't say. But if they have lost him for a good portion of the season, and if their performance here is a true indication, the Zags may have a longer (or would that be shorter?) season than they are accustomed to. As for the Aztecs, good for you. Keep it up.

I've been watching the Aztecs for several years and they have been getting better over the last few. I watched that game and they led the entire game. They kept Harris down all game. And winning in Spokane says a lot about this team. Hopefully they can keep it going.:noon

Re: College Hoops Thread '10-'11
 

Well, they were certainly better than Few that night. :r


My Heels are rapidly approaching the century mark, and Hofstra just bested 50. Meanwhile, in other Old North State action, Moo You and Eazy Teasy are in one tight war, at least in the first stanza. A few will get that joke.

Re: College Hoops Thread '10-'11
 

Final: UNC 107- Hofstra 63. Nothing to brag about, but better than their first game, for sure.


I'm out. Later.

Re: College Hoops Thread '10-'11
 

Before I get into scores and schedules, there's one sizable story to present. The SEC has suspended Tennessee head coach Bruce Pearl for the first 8 conference games for "violating NCAA rules and misleading investigators". It is important to note that this is a move by the SEC commissioner, persuant to his authority to do so, and will NOT preclude any additional or more severe future sanctions which the NCAA itself may impose, following the conclusion of their own investigations.


Some of the other scores from yesterday not yet covered, which jumped out at me:


# 3 Kansas State 76 - Presbyterian 67 = Good lord. Presbyterian? Are you kiddin' me? Talk about your bad wins. For at least the next month, I don't wanna hear any K-State fans cryin' that they ain't gettin' no respect.

# 5 Pitt 79 - Maryland 70 = Now here is a good 9-point win for you.

Texas 90 - # 13 Illinois 84 = And here's an even better 6-point one for the Longhorns.

# 15 Missouri 66 - Western Illinois 61 = Well, at least one team from the Land of Lincoln showed up to play. Or maybe the Big 12 ain't nearly as big as it thinks it is.

Santa Clara 66 - Rice 65 = One nice tight victory for Santa Clara here. It's not the biggest win the Broncos have ever had, but it's a good one nonetheless.

Iona 81 - Richmond 77 (2OT) = And here's an even nicer, tighter win for the Gaels over the Spiders.


So far today, West Virginia has sent Vandy packing from Puerto Rico, 74-71, while ODU's dispatched St. Peter's 59-52. Neither game was high-powered, but both were competitive. In action to follow:

# 1 Duke vs. Colgate = Colgate? Hey, everybody eats some cupcakes in November, I realize that. But I took a look at Dook's non-conference schedule, and they aren't playing much of anybody all year! OK, after this they have Marquette and Oregon, then Michigan State and Butler, then Bradley, St. Louis, Elon, UNC-G, UAB, St, John's, Temple . . . yes, there are a few tests in there, but mostly they are pop-quizzes.

# 5 Pitt vs. Texas = Now here, here we have us a game. Let's see if the Longhorns can build upon their "upset" of the Illini, or if the Panthers keep moving beyond their win against the Terps.

# 7 Kansas vs. North Texas = Ehhhhh. Pass.

# 8 UNC vs. Minnesota = This will be the Heels first real test. Seems that Roy Williams wants to run again. If the Gophers try to do so, heels may be all they see, all night long. But if they can control the pace and limit the possessions, they could keep the score lower and have at least a decent shot.

# 11 (for now) Illinois vs. Maryland = Here are two good teams, both coming off of painful losses. It shapes up to be a total war.

# 12 Kentucky vs. Portland = As would you, I'd expect this one to be over early.

N.C. State vs. George Mason = This pits the darling of the 2006 NCAA Tourney against a previous one . . . if anyone beside me is old enough to remember 1983. I'd expect the Wolfpack to have about as easy a time as they did yesterday against ECTC, but with young talent one can never tell.

Xavier vs. Iowa = And this matches a perennial mid-major factor against a perennial Big Ten non-factor. Still, it could be reasonably close.


I saw no early Saturday games of much interest, so I will wait until noonish to report. Until then . . . enjoy.

Re: College Hoops Thread '10-'11
 

At the half, Illinois over Maryland 40-36. Just about what you'd expect.

Re: College Hoops Thread '10-'11
 

Illini up 10, but still 7 minutes to go.

Re: College Hoops Thread '10-'11
 

At the half NC State over Geo. Mason 45-38. Meanwhile, Hofstra at the break leads Western Kentucky 24-21 . . . perhaps on a late 35-yard fieldgoal kick.

Re: College Hoops Thread '10-'11
 

Gophers knock off the Tarheels. Didn't see the game, but from what I've read, Sampson and Mbakwe were all over the place. This is the 3rd straight year Tubby has knocked off a top 10 team. Could they make a big run this year? Who knows? But I'll bet it's fun to watch. :)

Re: College Hoops Thread '10-'11
 

Yes they did, and congrats to the Gophers for a big win. It is NOT the "stunning upset" some reports want us to believe, however. Minnesota is always a tough Big Ten team, and Tubby an excellent coach (one who keeps getting run outta town for no damn good reason, it seems). The Gophers kept the score low enough to handle, with a LOT of help from the Heels. There were only 14 fewer shots taken collectively than in UNC's rout of Hofstra, but the Heels couldn't hit $#!+. For instance, "super-freshman" Harrison Barnes took 12 shots, and hit none. Here's why I don't buy into hype. Minnesota may deserve at least some credit for that . . . like Wanger, I did not watch it. Minnesota could very well have a nice, if not big, run this season. As for Carolina, they may progress into a good team, just as Barnes may become a great player. Neither is the case for now.

In other action yesterday:

# 5 Pitt 68 - Texas 66 = The Longhorns may have shown they are for real, despite the loss. Pitt hasn't shown they are a #5 team yet, and this provides no additional evidence. It's a good win for them, but that's about all you can say.

# 13 Illinois 80 - Maryland 76 = Pretty much the same story here. It's a nice bounce-back victory for the Illini, but a second painful loss by the Terps indicates just about as much of their abilities. Remember, they are still trying to adjust to life after Vasquez.

Rhode Island 75 - Charleston 66 = Man, I don't know how I missed this one. Two good mid-majors, head-to-head? It was bound to be a nice game.

Kent State 78 - Furman 74 (OT) = But nobody could have predicted this one, so gimme a pass here.

Mississippi State 76 - Appalachian State 74 = In Starksville, no less! And remember, the Mountaineers beat Tulsa in Oklahoma in their opener. Maybe the Southern Conference is getting another dawg in the pound.

ODU 59 - St. Peter's 52 = Games like this, especially early in the season, interest me. Are either of these teams any good, or are they both crap? That's part of the fun.

Xavier 86 - Iowa 73 = But you can almost always expect the X-men to field a decent squad. When a mid-major beats a team from a "big" conference by double-digits, it means something . . . even if it is the Hawkeyes.


Let's move on to contests today. These, for various reasons, pop out:


# 4 Ohio State vs. N.C. Wilmington = Yeah, OK. Well, I guess they both have to play somebody, right?

# 6 Villanova vs. Lafayette = " " . " , " " " " " " " " , " ?

# 15 Missouri vs. North Florida = North Florida? There's a NORTH Florida? Who'da thunk?

# 16 Butler vs. Ball State = Butler wants to rebound from their spanking in Louisville. Ball State may be in for a long day. Yet Butler may be in for a considerably shorter season.

# 25 San Diego State vs. Wisc. Green Bay = I'm not gonna pick against the Aztecs again, until they show me something otherwise. That goes twice today.

# 23 BYU vs. Chicago State = The Cougars will win this game against the Cougars, and will NOT post a boastful taunt on their scoreboard afterwards. And yes, I know this is "out-of-order" re the rankings, but I have my reason. Namely . . .

Utah State vs. Southern Utah = The Aggies were the target of said taunt, after their loss the other night to BYU, where they were encouraged to enjoy it. But here's the odd thing that struck me: Is Utah State not allowed out of the state of Utah for some reason? They opened against Weber St., lost that BYU game, play SU today, then face Utah. WTF?

Wisconsin vs. UNLV = Talk about your contrast of programs, not to mention universities! The Badgers love to plod along, and welcome all the contact. The Rebels want to be . . . well, Runnin' . . . and the only contact that interests them is with an agent. :D

UAB vs. Arizona State = These two want to move up in the world. UAB has been there (sort of) in the past, and the Sun Devils got a tiny taste that ended bitterly last season. Might be a nice tight contest.

Dayton vs. Mississippi = Hey, I could say much the same thing about this one. So, I won't. Why repeat myself?


I'll take a break now, and come back with some Sunday games to keep your eyes on, plus maybe an update of afternoon action.

Re: College Hoops Thread '10-'11
 

There are some scores from today already, but aside from Siena taking Northeastern the only one of note is Butler handling Ball State handily, leading by about 20 midway thru the 2nd. As for Sunday, there are more games with potential than we'll see today:


# 8 (for now) UNC vs. Vanderbilt = We will see if the Heels learned their lesson from the Gophers, and show up to handle the Comms.

# 9 Florida vs. Morehead State = Should be over by the half, but you've got to watch the supposed "good" teams in these, just to see what they have . . . if anything.

# 10 Syracuse vs. William & Mary = Ditto.

# 14 Purdue vs. Oakland = Ibid.

# 19 Memphis vs. LSU = This one's a harder call. Memphis had problems with Miami, but LSU lost to powerhouse Nicholls State. Me, I'm betting the farm that the Tigers will win.

# 20 Georgetown vs. N.C. State = OK, now this is more like it. I could see this going down to the wire.

# 22 Va. Tech vs. N.C. Greensboro = And I could see this going south . . . well, actually "north" . . . by the half.

# 25 San Diego State vs. IUPUI = I already told you . . . I'm going with the Aztecs until somebody cuts their hearts out.

Davidson vs. West. Kentucky = Davidson's not what they were, but W Ky. ain't exactly the big boys of that state.

Indiana vs. Evansville = And Indiana's not been what it was in a looooong time, but they are getting closer. This in-state game should get them one step nearer.

Miami vs. Rutgers = Given that nobody knows nuttin' about nobody so far, this one is interesting, as we have no idea at all who these two will be.

Michigan vs. Gardner-Webb = OK, on the surface you might think this one is a gimme for the Wolverines. That could be the case, but remember that Gardner-Webb beat Charlotte, while UM has beaten . . . nobody.

USC vs. New Mexico State = Another of those "who are these guys gonna be" games.

Creighton vs. Iowa State = This just smells like a competitive one to me.

Bradley vs. TCU = I smell that smell again.

ODU vs. Clemson = Sniff sniff.

Minnesota vs. West Virginia = Neither of these teams were forecast to compete in their conference. This may give us some indication if either, or both, can do so.

Xavier vs. Seton Hall = Anytime a good mid-major goes up against a poor big-conference squad, fun things can happen.


That's gonna be about it until Monday, unless some striking news breaks. So until then . . . enjoy.