I have not posted in about ten months so this time feels right. Much has change in the past year, most notably the fall of North Carolina (this season is just a blip) and the resurrection of Kentucky under John Calipari. The elite teams in the country are Kansas, Kentucky, Villanova, Syracuse, and possibly Purdue and Michigan State (if Kalin Lucas can get healthy again). Let's take a quick cruise through the BCS conferences as they stand today before the Rivalry Week games kick in.
ACC: POY and COY may both come from Maryland. Greivis Vazquez torched UNC yesterday and the Terps, sitting second behind Duke, look great despite the rumors and chatter that Gary Williams may be on his way out of College Park. His team has responded and they look great. COY is not a lock for Williams because UVA coach Tony Bennett has made a smooth transition from Pullman to Charlottesville. His slowdown tempo may not win over high school All-Americans but his tempo produces success. It's also easy to look good when you have a dynamic talent like Sylven Landesburg.
Big Ten: On paper this was supposed to be the year of the midwest. The big physcial brand would reign supreme. That's not the case anymore. The only quality teams are Purdue, Michigan State, and Wisconsin. Bo Ryan always has teams that come in with low expectations and all he does is win, especially at home. The big shock is the mediocrity of Michigan. Hoops experts were saying that John Beilein's teams do well in his third season. With Manny Harris and Deshawn Sims, he has two all-conference players. That hasn't been enough. Indiana is slowly coming back while Minnesota is full of off-the-court problems.
Big East: The Big East is down right? All that talent left. Thabeet, Blair, Flynn, Young, Clark, and Cunningham. The conference just reloads and finds new stars, notably Syracuse's Wes Johnson, Pittsburgh's Ashton Gibbs, and the best unknown major conference player; South Florida's Dominique Jones. This year the conference has several lock bids in Syracuse, Villanova, West Virginia, Pittsburgh, and Georgetown. Connecticut lost too much talent last year and has been an inconsistent team. Not many people thought SU would be in the position they are now, tied for first in the conference. The game of the year will take place before a sold out Carrier Dome crowd on Feb. 27 when Nova takes on Syracuse.
Big 12: Kansas has the most talent in the country and has to be the favorite for the national title. With Cole Aldrich and Sherron Collins, they have arguably the best PG-C combo in all of basketball. Texas was a team that should have been a top-five team all year but they have been hot and cold. They were touted because of depth but Rick Barnes' club has a serious problem. Their best defensive team can't score and the best offensive team can't guard anybody. The wildcard teams are Baylor and Kansas State, who both have excellent guard play as well as solid post scoring.
Pac 10: This conference is down, big time. They will only get one bid in the NCAA Tournament. UCLA lost too many players early in consecutive years and are behind. Arizona's program had to be built again by Sean Miller (who has them in second place). Washington and Cal were the class of the west until Harper Kamp went down for Cal and when U-Dub opened up conference play 1-3. No need to bring up the East Coast Bias, the Pac-10 is just plain bad this year, from top to bottom.
SEC: All Kentucky all the time. John Wall and Demarcus Cousins are touted as top five draft picks once they leave UK (On a side note: do they even go to class? No need too because they are turning pro anyway). Outside of the Cats, Bruce Pearl's Tennessee club has moved past the shocking news that star Tyler Smith was dismissed after a traffic incident. They have been playing well as of late but the boys from Rocky Top don't have much left in the tank. Vanderbilt has been solid but nobody really cares about them anyway. The SEC is a football conference, except in Lexington.
Monday, February 8, 2010
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
What I Learned from My Video Project
The Manhasset players and coaching staff were extremely accessible and helped me every step of the way. I was frustrated at first because I was unable to contact coach Cherry. Once I met him and introduced myself at the Woodstick Classic, he turned out to be a great person and immediately invited me to practice and vowed to help me in any way he could.
I did not expect to talk to assistant coach Bob Rule but I knew he was a longtime JV coach so I asked about the Manhasset senior class and he gave me a great thirty second plus sound bite. The players were also fantastic and I could tell that the frustration of losing to Cold Spring Harbor was getting to them and even though they have the most talent the players expressed a refreshing sense of humility. They know they are good but are quite humble. I wish the seniors the best of luck in their future endeavors.
Editing the video was the most problematic but after dragging clips and becoming familiar with MovieMaker, it became easier.
I'm excited to use the tools I learned in this project to better myself and to become a successful professional journalist in the near future.
I did not expect to talk to assistant coach Bob Rule but I knew he was a longtime JV coach so I asked about the Manhasset senior class and he gave me a great thirty second plus sound bite. The players were also fantastic and I could tell that the frustration of losing to Cold Spring Harbor was getting to them and even though they have the most talent the players expressed a refreshing sense of humility. They know they are good but are quite humble. I wish the seniors the best of luck in their future endeavors.
Editing the video was the most problematic but after dragging clips and becoming familiar with MovieMaker, it became easier.
I'm excited to use the tools I learned in this project to better myself and to become a successful professional journalist in the near future.
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Postseason Awards: Big Ten
They may have the most bids of any league come Selection Sunday but they are not the best league. They have talent but that talent is young. The sophomore class of Evan Turner, Taylor Battle, Manny Harris, Kalin Lucas will highlight this league in the coming years.
Player of the Year: Taylor Battle, Penn State
I have to say he has been one of the best players and also one of the most valuable. Even if they don't go dancing, his mark has been made. MSU is too balanced and so is Purdue. Battle is the player that stands out the most
Freshman of the Year: William Buford, Ohio State
Coach of the Year: Ed DeChellis, Penn State and Bruce Weber, Illinois
1st Team All-Conference:
F Mike Davis, Illinois
F Evan Turner, Ohio State
G/F Manny Harris, Michigan
G Kalin Lucas, Michigan State
PG Taylor Battle, Penn State
2nd Team All-Conference:
C JaJuan Johnson, Purdue
F DeShawn Sims, Michigan
SF Kevin Coble, Northwestern
SG E'Twaun Moore, Purdue
G Demetri McCamey, Illinois
Player of the Year: Taylor Battle, Penn State
I have to say he has been one of the best players and also one of the most valuable. Even if they don't go dancing, his mark has been made. MSU is too balanced and so is Purdue. Battle is the player that stands out the most
Freshman of the Year: William Buford, Ohio State
Coach of the Year: Ed DeChellis, Penn State and Bruce Weber, Illinois
1st Team All-Conference:
F Mike Davis, Illinois
F Evan Turner, Ohio State
G/F Manny Harris, Michigan
G Kalin Lucas, Michigan State
PG Taylor Battle, Penn State
2nd Team All-Conference:
C JaJuan Johnson, Purdue
F DeShawn Sims, Michigan
SF Kevin Coble, Northwestern
SG E'Twaun Moore, Purdue
G Demetri McCamey, Illinois
Sunday, March 8, 2009
Postseason Awards: Big East
I understand the advocates that want DeJuan Blair to be player of the year. Yes he has been fantastic and his team has been great but Thabeet impacts the game even when he does not touch the ball. That gave him the nod.
Player of the Year: Hasheem Thabeet, Connecticut
Rookie of the Year: Greg Monroe, Georgetown
Coach of the Year: Jay Wright, Villanova and Buzz Williams, Marquette
1st Team All-Conference:
C Hasheem Thabeet, Connecticut
PF DeJuan Blair, Pittsburgh
SF Sam Young, Pittsburgh
SG Terrence Williams, Louisville
PG Jerel McNeal, Marquette
2nd Team All-Conference:
C Luke Harangody, Notre Dame
PF Dante Cunningham, Villanova
PF/SF Earl Clark, Louisville
G Jonny Flynn
PG Levance Fields
Player of the Year: Hasheem Thabeet, Connecticut
Rookie of the Year: Greg Monroe, Georgetown
Coach of the Year: Jay Wright, Villanova and Buzz Williams, Marquette
1st Team All-Conference:
C Hasheem Thabeet, Connecticut
PF DeJuan Blair, Pittsburgh
SF Sam Young, Pittsburgh
SG Terrence Williams, Louisville
PG Jerel McNeal, Marquette
2nd Team All-Conference:
C Luke Harangody, Notre Dame
PF Dante Cunningham, Villanova
PF/SF Earl Clark, Louisville
G Jonny Flynn
PG Levance Fields
Saturday, March 7, 2009
Postseason Awards: ACC
Every 1st team all-conference player was tough to pick. The ACC and the Big East had a plethora of well qualified candidates. I mixed and matched certain positions. My teams try to combine the five best players with somewhat of a conventional lineup.
Player of the Year: Tyler Hansbrough, North Carolina
In the end, he has some of the best numbers and is so valuable to his team. First in scoring and not far behind in rebounding.
Freshman of the Year: Sylven Landesburg, Virginia
This was a tough call with Al-Farouq Aminu turning in a great season. In the end, it was Landesburg's better numbers and lack of supporting cast that gives him the award in a close race.
Coach of the Year: Dino Gaudio, Wake Forest
2010 was supposed to be the Demon Deacons coming out party. Gaudio's steady hand has Wake in position for a three seed in the NCAA Tournament.
1st Team All-Conference:
F Tyler Hansbrough, UNC
F Trevor Booker, Clemson
G/F Gerald Henderson, Duke
SG Jack McClinton, Miami
PG Ty Lawson, UNC
2nd Team All Conference:
F Gani Lawal, Georgia Tech
F Kyle Singler, Duke
SG Toney Douglas, Florida State
PG/SG Jeff Teague, Wake Forest
PG Tyrese Rice, Boston College
Player of the Year: Tyler Hansbrough, North Carolina
In the end, he has some of the best numbers and is so valuable to his team. First in scoring and not far behind in rebounding.
Freshman of the Year: Sylven Landesburg, Virginia
This was a tough call with Al-Farouq Aminu turning in a great season. In the end, it was Landesburg's better numbers and lack of supporting cast that gives him the award in a close race.
Coach of the Year: Dino Gaudio, Wake Forest
2010 was supposed to be the Demon Deacons coming out party. Gaudio's steady hand has Wake in position for a three seed in the NCAA Tournament.
1st Team All-Conference:
F Tyler Hansbrough, UNC
F Trevor Booker, Clemson
G/F Gerald Henderson, Duke
SG Jack McClinton, Miami
PG Ty Lawson, UNC
2nd Team All Conference:
F Gani Lawal, Georgia Tech
F Kyle Singler, Duke
SG Toney Douglas, Florida State
PG/SG Jeff Teague, Wake Forest
PG Tyrese Rice, Boston College
Monday, February 16, 2009
2009 Final Four
Connecticut, North Carolina, Michigan State, and then a bevy of teams. MSU has not been talked about but I believe they will make the Final Four. When healthy, they are an elite team. Bracket willing, in a one game showdown, they could beat a team like Pittsburgh or a team like Oklahoma.
Interesting stat: No team since 2000 has lost more than two home games that season.
2000 Michigan State 14-0
2001 Duke 13-2
2002 Maryland 15-0
2003 Syracuse 17-0
2004 Connecticut 17-1
2005 North Carolina 15-0
2006 Florida 16-2
2007 Florida 16-0
2008 Kansas 19-0
That's an astonishing 142-5.
UConn lost their second home game tonight against Pitt. If they drop one more (Notre Dame may give them a game) then I won't pick them to win the national title. However if they beat ND, we can still call them a favorite.
Interesting stat: No team since 2000 has lost more than two home games that season.
2000 Michigan State 14-0
2001 Duke 13-2
2002 Maryland 15-0
2003 Syracuse 17-0
2004 Connecticut 17-1
2005 North Carolina 15-0
2006 Florida 16-2
2007 Florida 16-0
2008 Kansas 19-0
That's an astonishing 142-5.
UConn lost their second home game tonight against Pitt. If they drop one more (Notre Dame may give them a game) then I won't pick them to win the national title. However if they beat ND, we can still call them a favorite.
Sunday, February 15, 2009
Big East Tournament
Just for fun, if the season ended today, to see how it could play out. I'm using the chalk to predict the winner.
Tuesday March 10:
9. West Virginia vs 16 DePaul (Winner plays Cincinnati)
12. Georgetown vs 13 USF (Winner plays Villanova)
10. Notre Dame vs 15. Rutgers (Winner plays Syracuse)
11. Seton Hall vs 14. St. John's (Winner plays Providence)
Wednesday March 11
9. West Virginia vs 8. Cincinnati (Winner plays Connecticut)
12. Georgetown vs 5. Villanova (Winner plays Louisville)
10. Notre Dame vs 7. Syracuse (Winner plays Pittsburgh)
11. Seton Hall vs 6. Providence (Winner plays Marquette)
Thursday March 12
8. Cincinnati vs 1. Connecticut
5. Villanova vs 4. Louisville
7. Syracuse vs 2. Pittsburgh
6. Providence vs 3. Marquette
Friday March 13
1. Connecticut vs 4. Louisville
2. Pittsburgh vs 3. Marquette
Saturday March 14
1. Connecticut vs 2. Pittsburgh
WINNER: We'll get a peak on Monday when Pitt and UConn face off.
Tuesday March 10:
9. West Virginia vs 16 DePaul (Winner plays Cincinnati)
12. Georgetown vs 13 USF (Winner plays Villanova)
10. Notre Dame vs 15. Rutgers (Winner plays Syracuse)
11. Seton Hall vs 14. St. John's (Winner plays Providence)
Wednesday March 11
9. West Virginia vs 8. Cincinnati (Winner plays Connecticut)
12. Georgetown vs 5. Villanova (Winner plays Louisville)
10. Notre Dame vs 7. Syracuse (Winner plays Pittsburgh)
11. Seton Hall vs 6. Providence (Winner plays Marquette)
Thursday March 12
8. Cincinnati vs 1. Connecticut
5. Villanova vs 4. Louisville
7. Syracuse vs 2. Pittsburgh
6. Providence vs 3. Marquette
Friday March 13
1. Connecticut vs 4. Louisville
2. Pittsburgh vs 3. Marquette
Saturday March 14
1. Connecticut vs 2. Pittsburgh
WINNER: We'll get a peak on Monday when Pitt and UConn face off.
Friday, February 6, 2009
Conference Player and Rookie of the Year Races
ACC POY:
Jeff Teague and Tyler Hansbrough. Both guys have the stats but as of right now, Teague has more signature games plus the head to head W. Teague, for now.
ACC ROY:
Al-Farouq Aminu. There are some other guys that maybe could challenge. Well, actually the ACC freshman class is weak and Aminu is just about a lock to win. Aminu
Big East POY:
Jerel McNeal, Luke Harangody, DeJuan Blair, and Hasheem Thabeet. McNeal and Thabeet are the two best defenders in the conference, Harangody has the best stats and Blair has arguably the best overall game. Notre Dame is down so 'Gody is out. Thabeet is known more for his D so he is out. Blair does most of his work on the glass and defers to Sam Young in the clutch. McNeal is the leader of the number one team in the conference and wants the ball when the game is on the line. McNeal, for now.
Big East ROY:
Greg Monroe, Samardo Samuels, Mike Rosario, and Devin Ebanks. Samuels has the most hype but has been somewhat disappointing. Rosario has the best numbers but plays on a team that needs him to shoot early and often. Ebanks has had his flashes but is too inconsistent. Monroe owned Thabeet in Big East game one and has been more important to his team than any other guy on this list. Monroe
Big Ten POY:
Taylor Battle, Kalin Lucas and Evan Turner. The conference is in the midst of a down year and most surprising has been the success of Penn State. Battle is the best unknown player in the country. He leads the conference in points and assists. Turner possesses the best overall game in the conference because he scores, rebounds, passes, and defends. Lucas has numbers but he also has the best talent around him. As weird as it is to say the best player in the conference is from Penn State, it's hard to argue. Battle
Big Ten ROY:
William Buford. Much like the ACC, the Big Ten is having a down year for freshman talent. Ohio State's BJ Mullens was touted as the top talent but his learning curve has been steeper than most expected. Mullens' teammate, William Buford, stepped in for injured guard Dave Lighty and has filled in amicably. Buford
Big 12 POY:
Blake Griffin. Not even close. Griffin
Big 12 ROY:
Willie Warren. Again, not much of a competition. One of the best guards in the conference and gets to play with a dominant big like Griffin every night. If it was chosen by name, I would pick Texas' Dogus Balbay. Too bad. Warren
Pac-10 POY:
James Harden, Jon Brockman, and Jerome Randle. Although Randle has numbers, his contributions are not as important to his team as they are for Brockman and Harden. These two guys make their teams go and are the primary reasons they both have a chance to win the conference. Brockman is a double double machine while Harden is so good, he has no right hand, teams know that and yet, he goes left whenever he wants and scores. Without Harden, Arizona State is not sniffing March. Harden
Pac-10 ROY:
Isaiah Thomas, DeMar DeRozan, and Jrue Holiday. Holiday and DeRozan both were top ten recruits and both are top ten in terms of disappointment. Both are just average conference starters and look nothing like the lottery picks many thought they were. Thomas has wallowed in obscurity but the man with the big name is no slouch. He runs up and down the floor and is arguably the heart of the Huskies team. Not as much of a slam dunk as Warren in the Big 12 but pretty close. Thomas
SEC POY:
Jodie Meeks, Nick Calathes, and Tyler Smith. Smith is probably the first one out because of the talent around him and also because of the lack of success Tennessee has had. They are a good team just not the top ten team they proclaimed to be when the season started. Most would consider Meeks the favorite because of his scoring but Calathes deserves serious consideration because of his overall game and team's success. Calathes but it could be a split decision with Meeks.
SEC ROY:
Courtney Fortson. Much like Willie Warren and William Buford, Fortson has the best stats and the least competition. Fortson
Jeff Teague and Tyler Hansbrough. Both guys have the stats but as of right now, Teague has more signature games plus the head to head W. Teague, for now.
ACC ROY:
Al-Farouq Aminu. There are some other guys that maybe could challenge. Well, actually the ACC freshman class is weak and Aminu is just about a lock to win. Aminu
Big East POY:
Jerel McNeal, Luke Harangody, DeJuan Blair, and Hasheem Thabeet. McNeal and Thabeet are the two best defenders in the conference, Harangody has the best stats and Blair has arguably the best overall game. Notre Dame is down so 'Gody is out. Thabeet is known more for his D so he is out. Blair does most of his work on the glass and defers to Sam Young in the clutch. McNeal is the leader of the number one team in the conference and wants the ball when the game is on the line. McNeal, for now.
Big East ROY:
Greg Monroe, Samardo Samuels, Mike Rosario, and Devin Ebanks. Samuels has the most hype but has been somewhat disappointing. Rosario has the best numbers but plays on a team that needs him to shoot early and often. Ebanks has had his flashes but is too inconsistent. Monroe owned Thabeet in Big East game one and has been more important to his team than any other guy on this list. Monroe
Big Ten POY:
Taylor Battle, Kalin Lucas and Evan Turner. The conference is in the midst of a down year and most surprising has been the success of Penn State. Battle is the best unknown player in the country. He leads the conference in points and assists. Turner possesses the best overall game in the conference because he scores, rebounds, passes, and defends. Lucas has numbers but he also has the best talent around him. As weird as it is to say the best player in the conference is from Penn State, it's hard to argue. Battle
Big Ten ROY:
William Buford. Much like the ACC, the Big Ten is having a down year for freshman talent. Ohio State's BJ Mullens was touted as the top talent but his learning curve has been steeper than most expected. Mullens' teammate, William Buford, stepped in for injured guard Dave Lighty and has filled in amicably. Buford
Big 12 POY:
Blake Griffin. Not even close. Griffin
Big 12 ROY:
Willie Warren. Again, not much of a competition. One of the best guards in the conference and gets to play with a dominant big like Griffin every night. If it was chosen by name, I would pick Texas' Dogus Balbay. Too bad. Warren
Pac-10 POY:
James Harden, Jon Brockman, and Jerome Randle. Although Randle has numbers, his contributions are not as important to his team as they are for Brockman and Harden. These two guys make their teams go and are the primary reasons they both have a chance to win the conference. Brockman is a double double machine while Harden is so good, he has no right hand, teams know that and yet, he goes left whenever he wants and scores. Without Harden, Arizona State is not sniffing March. Harden
Pac-10 ROY:
Isaiah Thomas, DeMar DeRozan, and Jrue Holiday. Holiday and DeRozan both were top ten recruits and both are top ten in terms of disappointment. Both are just average conference starters and look nothing like the lottery picks many thought they were. Thomas has wallowed in obscurity but the man with the big name is no slouch. He runs up and down the floor and is arguably the heart of the Huskies team. Not as much of a slam dunk as Warren in the Big 12 but pretty close. Thomas
SEC POY:
Jodie Meeks, Nick Calathes, and Tyler Smith. Smith is probably the first one out because of the talent around him and also because of the lack of success Tennessee has had. They are a good team just not the top ten team they proclaimed to be when the season started. Most would consider Meeks the favorite because of his scoring but Calathes deserves serious consideration because of his overall game and team's success. Calathes but it could be a split decision with Meeks.
SEC ROY:
Courtney Fortson. Much like Willie Warren and William Buford, Fortson has the best stats and the least competition. Fortson
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Players You Should Watch
Durrell Summers, G/F, Michigan State (Most consistent scorer for Spartans)
Taylor Battle, PG, Penn State (A great leader and competitor for surprising PSU)
Dexter Pittman, C, Texas (Once conditioning is good, this guy will blossom into a franchise player)
Dante Cunningham, PF, Villanova (Best mid-range J of any big man in college)
Gerald Henderson, G/F, Duke (Pure scorer with ability to take and hit late game shots)
Nikola Dragovic, F, UCLA (His emergence correlates with UCLA's potent offense of late)
Taylor Battle, PG, Penn State (A great leader and competitor for surprising PSU)
Dexter Pittman, C, Texas (Once conditioning is good, this guy will blossom into a franchise player)
Dante Cunningham, PF, Villanova (Best mid-range J of any big man in college)
Gerald Henderson, G/F, Duke (Pure scorer with ability to take and hit late game shots)
Nikola Dragovic, F, UCLA (His emergence correlates with UCLA's potent offense of late)
Saturday, January 17, 2009
Big East vs ACC: A brief breakdown
The ACC and the Big East, in no particular order, are the two best conferences in the nation. ACC backers say their success nationally, North Carolina, Duke, Wake Forest, and Clemson all reside in the top ten as of today, is the reason why they should be considered supreme. The Big East backers point to depth, eight teams in the top 25, make them supreme.
Here are the conference matchups based on league record through Jan. 18. (rankings are based on AP Top 25)
#1 Wake Forest (16-0, 3-0) vs #11 Marquette (16-2, 5-0)
#2 Duke (16-1, 3-0) vs #9 Louisville (13-3, 4-0)
#10 Clemson (16-1, 2-1) vs #8 Syracuse (17-2, 5-1)
Florida State (15-3, 2-1) vs #4 Pittsburgh (16-1, 4-1)
Virginia Tech (12-5, 2-1) vs #3 Connecticut (15-1, 4-1)
#5 North Carolina (16-2, 2-2) vs #12 Georgetown (12-4, 3-2)
Miami (13-4, 2-2) vs Providence (11-6, 3-2)
Maryland (12-5, 1-2) vs #19 Notre Dame (12-5, 3-3)
North Carolina State (10-5, 1-2) vs #20 Villanova (14-3, 2-2)
Virginia (7-7, 1-2) vs West Virginia (13-4, 2-2)
Boston College (13-6, 1-3) vs Cincinnati (12-6, 2-3)
Georgia Tech (9-8, 0-4) vs St. John's (10-6, 1-3)
Here are the conference matchups based on league record through Jan. 18. (rankings are based on AP Top 25)
#1 Wake Forest (16-0, 3-0) vs #11 Marquette (16-2, 5-0)
#2 Duke (16-1, 3-0) vs #9 Louisville (13-3, 4-0)
#10 Clemson (16-1, 2-1) vs #8 Syracuse (17-2, 5-1)
Florida State (15-3, 2-1) vs #4 Pittsburgh (16-1, 4-1)
Virginia Tech (12-5, 2-1) vs #3 Connecticut (15-1, 4-1)
#5 North Carolina (16-2, 2-2) vs #12 Georgetown (12-4, 3-2)
Miami (13-4, 2-2) vs Providence (11-6, 3-2)
Maryland (12-5, 1-2) vs #19 Notre Dame (12-5, 3-3)
North Carolina State (10-5, 1-2) vs #20 Villanova (14-3, 2-2)
Virginia (7-7, 1-2) vs West Virginia (13-4, 2-2)
Boston College (13-6, 1-3) vs Cincinnati (12-6, 2-3)
Georgia Tech (9-8, 0-4) vs St. John's (10-6, 1-3)
Monday, January 12, 2009
Top 25
The shock (sort of) of the weekend was North Carolina falling last night to Wake Forest. Sure we knew Wake was good, sure they were playing at home, but UNC dropping two straight? Not a chance. The Boston College game has showed that teams are not in awe of the Heels anymore. Wake came out firing and attacking that defense at every chance. Jeff Teague was fantastic. Although he is listed at PG, he is more of a scorer right now but his vision is getting better with every game. Wake is riding high but will face another rising ACC Clemson soon. That could be a top ten game. O yeah, and the Big East is ridiculously talented and there is no, I repeat, no easy out.
1. Pittsburgh
2. Wake Forest
3. Duke
4. Connecticut
5. North Carolina
6. Michigan State
7. Oklahoma
8. Syracuse
9. UCLA
10. Texas
11. Clemson
12. Notre Dame
13. Xavier
14. Georgetown
15. Marquette
16. Arizona State
17. Minnesota
18. Purdue
19. Louisville
20. Butler
21. Baylor
22. California
23. Villanova
24. Michigan
25. Gonzaga
1. Pittsburgh
2. Wake Forest
3. Duke
4. Connecticut
5. North Carolina
6. Michigan State
7. Oklahoma
8. Syracuse
9. UCLA
10. Texas
11. Clemson
12. Notre Dame
13. Xavier
14. Georgetown
15. Marquette
16. Arizona State
17. Minnesota
18. Purdue
19. Louisville
20. Butler
21. Baylor
22. California
23. Villanova
24. Michigan
25. Gonzaga
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Where They Stand: SEC
Eastern Division:
South Carolina 9-1 (0-0)
Florida 8-2 (0-0)
Tennessee 8-2 (0-0)
Kentucky 8-3 (0-0)
Vanderbilt 8-3 (0-0)
Georgia 7-3 (0-0)
Western Division:
Arkansas 8-1 (0-0)
LSU 8-1 (0-0)
Alabama 6-3 (0-0)
Ole Miss 7-4 (0-0)
Miss State 7-4 (0-0)
Auburn 6-4 (0-0)
Favorite: Tennessee
Contenders: Florida, South Carolina, and Arkansas
Sleeper: Kentucky
Destined for Last: Georgia and Auburn
Biggest Non-Conference Win: Tennessee 90 vs Georgetown 78
Biggest Non-Conference Loss: Mercer wins over Alabama and Auburn
This is not football. Unfortunately the SEC is probably the worst BCS conference in the country. Tennessee is their best team and they are ranked #17 by the AP and there are four Big East teams ranked ahead of them. This conference has been cupcake city so I don't think anybody knows what to expect outside of Tennessee's success. The lack of quality competition is really a huge problem. LSU has not played anybody and neither has South Carolina, who lost to the College of Charleston. Sorry SEC fans but outside of the Vols and maybe Florida and Arkansas, your conference stinks.
South Carolina 9-1 (0-0)
Florida 8-2 (0-0)
Tennessee 8-2 (0-0)
Kentucky 8-3 (0-0)
Vanderbilt 8-3 (0-0)
Georgia 7-3 (0-0)
Western Division:
Arkansas 8-1 (0-0)
LSU 8-1 (0-0)
Alabama 6-3 (0-0)
Ole Miss 7-4 (0-0)
Miss State 7-4 (0-0)
Auburn 6-4 (0-0)
Favorite: Tennessee
Contenders: Florida, South Carolina, and Arkansas
Sleeper: Kentucky
Destined for Last: Georgia and Auburn
Biggest Non-Conference Win: Tennessee 90 vs Georgetown 78
Biggest Non-Conference Loss: Mercer wins over Alabama and Auburn
This is not football. Unfortunately the SEC is probably the worst BCS conference in the country. Tennessee is their best team and they are ranked #17 by the AP and there are four Big East teams ranked ahead of them. This conference has been cupcake city so I don't think anybody knows what to expect outside of Tennessee's success. The lack of quality competition is really a huge problem. LSU has not played anybody and neither has South Carolina, who lost to the College of Charleston. Sorry SEC fans but outside of the Vols and maybe Florida and Arkansas, your conference stinks.
Where They Stand: Pac-10
Stanford 8-0 (0-0)
Arizona State 10-1 (0-0)
California 9-2 (0-0)
UCLA 9-2 (0-0)
Arizona 8-3 (0-0)
USC 8-3 (0-0)
Washington State 8-3 (0-0)
Washington 7-3 (0-0)
Oregon 5-6 (0-0)
Oregon State 4-5 (0-0)
Favorite: UCLA
Contenders: Stanford, Arizona State, USC
Sleeper: Arizona
Destined for Last: The Oregon Schools
Biggest Non-Conference Win: Arizona 69 vs Gonzaga 64
Biggest Non-Conference Loss: Portland 80 vs Washington 74
New coach Johnnie Dawkins has been loading up on cupcakes so his record is somewhat inflated. If they are good then it will show when conference play starts. Arizona State looks to be the team most capable of defeating UCLA and winning the Pac-10. USC freshman DeMar DeRozan is slowly coming along which will only help the Trojans get better. Arizona, a program that was almost torn apart by the abrupt retirement of Lute Olsen, is quietly a factor and boasts a solid trio in Jordan Hill, Chase Budinger, and Nic Wise.
Arizona State 10-1 (0-0)
California 9-2 (0-0)
UCLA 9-2 (0-0)
Arizona 8-3 (0-0)
USC 8-3 (0-0)
Washington State 8-3 (0-0)
Washington 7-3 (0-0)
Oregon 5-6 (0-0)
Oregon State 4-5 (0-0)
Favorite: UCLA
Contenders: Stanford, Arizona State, USC
Sleeper: Arizona
Destined for Last: The Oregon Schools
Biggest Non-Conference Win: Arizona 69 vs Gonzaga 64
Biggest Non-Conference Loss: Portland 80 vs Washington 74
New coach Johnnie Dawkins has been loading up on cupcakes so his record is somewhat inflated. If they are good then it will show when conference play starts. Arizona State looks to be the team most capable of defeating UCLA and winning the Pac-10. USC freshman DeMar DeRozan is slowly coming along which will only help the Trojans get better. Arizona, a program that was almost torn apart by the abrupt retirement of Lute Olsen, is quietly a factor and boasts a solid trio in Jordan Hill, Chase Budinger, and Nic Wise.
Where They Stand: Big East
Pittsburgh 12-0 (0-0)
Connecticut 10-0 (0-0)
Syracuse 12-1 (0-0)
Villanova 11-1 (0-0)
Georgetown 9-1 (0-0)
Cincinnati 10-2 (0-0)
Marquette 10-2 (0-0)
Notre Dame 9-2 (0-0)
St. John's 9-2 (0-0)
West Virginia 9-2 (0-0)
Louisville 7-2 (0-0)
Rutgers 9-3 (0-0)
Seton Hall 8-3 (0-0)
Providence 8-4 (0-0)
DePaul 7-5 (0-0)
USF 4-7 (0-0)
Favorite: Connecticut
Contenders: Pittsburgh, Syracuse, Notre Dame, Georgetown, and Louisville
Sleeper: West Virginia and Cincinnati
Destined for Last: USF
Biggest Non-Conference Win: Notre Dame 81 vs Texas 80
Biggest Non-Conference Loss: Western Kentucky 68 vs Louisville 54
Depth and quality. The Big East has both and at they have at least 11 or 12 potential NCAA Tournament teams. It will be a dogfight during conference play because of the new 18 game schedule. Everybody plays everybody else at least once. UConn seems to be the best but will be challenge by Pitt, Syracuse, and Notre Dame. Louisville has been very disappointing and they look disinterested and they don't play hard. If Rick Pitino gets these guys into shape then they could be dangerous. The league will be dominant in March, this is the Year of the Big East.
Connecticut 10-0 (0-0)
Syracuse 12-1 (0-0)
Villanova 11-1 (0-0)
Georgetown 9-1 (0-0)
Cincinnati 10-2 (0-0)
Marquette 10-2 (0-0)
Notre Dame 9-2 (0-0)
St. John's 9-2 (0-0)
West Virginia 9-2 (0-0)
Louisville 7-2 (0-0)
Rutgers 9-3 (0-0)
Seton Hall 8-3 (0-0)
Providence 8-4 (0-0)
DePaul 7-5 (0-0)
USF 4-7 (0-0)
Favorite: Connecticut
Contenders: Pittsburgh, Syracuse, Notre Dame, Georgetown, and Louisville
Sleeper: West Virginia and Cincinnati
Destined for Last: USF
Biggest Non-Conference Win: Notre Dame 81 vs Texas 80
Biggest Non-Conference Loss: Western Kentucky 68 vs Louisville 54
Depth and quality. The Big East has both and at they have at least 11 or 12 potential NCAA Tournament teams. It will be a dogfight during conference play because of the new 18 game schedule. Everybody plays everybody else at least once. UConn seems to be the best but will be challenge by Pitt, Syracuse, and Notre Dame. Louisville has been very disappointing and they look disinterested and they don't play hard. If Rick Pitino gets these guys into shape then they could be dangerous. The league will be dominant in March, this is the Year of the Big East.
Where They Stand: Big Twelve
Oklahoma 12-0 (0-0)
Baylor 10-1 (0-0)
Texas A&M 10-1 (0-0)
Texas 10-2 (0-0)
Missouri 9-2 (0-0)
Texas Tech 9-3 (0-0)
Kansas 8-3 (0-0)
Kansas State 8-3 (0-0)
Oklahoma State 8-3 (0-0)
Nebraska 7-3 (0-0)
Colorado 6-3 (0-0)
Iowa State 7-4 (0-0)
Favorite: Oklahoma
Contenders: Baylor, Texas A&M, Texas
Sleeper: Missouri
Destined for Last: Iowa State
Biggest Non-Conference Win: Texas 68 vs UCLA 64 / Oklahoma 87 vs Purdue 82
Biggest Non-Conference Loss: South Dakota State 65 vs Iowa State 58
The conference championships is Oklahoma's to lose. Baylor has great guard and wing players but they lack a big to battle Blake Griffin. Texas has stars with Damion James and AJ Abrams but their role players must step up if they want to beat Oklahoma. Missouri has been a nice surprise under Mike Anderson and so has Texas A&M. The Big 12 is down compared to past years but the top teams are great, it's just the overall quality that is lacking.
Baylor 10-1 (0-0)
Texas A&M 10-1 (0-0)
Texas 10-2 (0-0)
Missouri 9-2 (0-0)
Texas Tech 9-3 (0-0)
Kansas 8-3 (0-0)
Kansas State 8-3 (0-0)
Oklahoma State 8-3 (0-0)
Nebraska 7-3 (0-0)
Colorado 6-3 (0-0)
Iowa State 7-4 (0-0)
Favorite: Oklahoma
Contenders: Baylor, Texas A&M, Texas
Sleeper: Missouri
Destined for Last: Iowa State
Biggest Non-Conference Win: Texas 68 vs UCLA 64 / Oklahoma 87 vs Purdue 82
Biggest Non-Conference Loss: South Dakota State 65 vs Iowa State 58
The conference championships is Oklahoma's to lose. Baylor has great guard and wing players but they lack a big to battle Blake Griffin. Texas has stars with Damion James and AJ Abrams but their role players must step up if they want to beat Oklahoma. Missouri has been a nice surprise under Mike Anderson and so has Texas A&M. The Big 12 is down compared to past years but the top teams are great, it's just the overall quality that is lacking.
Where They Stand: Big Ten
Minnesota 11-0 (0-0)
Ohio State 9-0 (0-0)
Illinois 11-1 (0-0)
Penn State 11-2 (0-0)
Purdue 10-2 (0-0)
Michigan 9-2 (0-0)
Michigan State 8-2 (0-0)
Northwestern 8-2 (0-0)
Wisconsin 9-3 (0-0)
Iowa 9-3 (0-0)
Indiana 5-6 (0-0)
Favorite: Purdue
Contenders: Minnesota, Michigan State and Ohio State
Sleeper: Michigan
Destined For Last: Indiana
Biggest Non-Conference Win: Minnesota 70 vs Louisville 64
Biggest Non-Conference Loss: Drake 60 vs Iowa 43
Minnesota is the story of the Big Ten so far because of their early success under Tubby Smith. They scheduled cupcakes but came away with a huge win against Louisville last weekend. They are young and may not be as talented as other teams, but if they listen to Smith they can shock some people and push Purdue and Michigan State down the stretch. The overall quality of the Big Ten is nice especially since the only team with a losing record, Indiana, is rebuilding the program. Michigan has wins over UCLA and Duke this year so don't sleep on the Wolverines.
Ohio State 9-0 (0-0)
Illinois 11-1 (0-0)
Penn State 11-2 (0-0)
Purdue 10-2 (0-0)
Michigan 9-2 (0-0)
Michigan State 8-2 (0-0)
Northwestern 8-2 (0-0)
Wisconsin 9-3 (0-0)
Iowa 9-3 (0-0)
Indiana 5-6 (0-0)
Favorite: Purdue
Contenders: Minnesota, Michigan State and Ohio State
Sleeper: Michigan
Destined For Last: Indiana
Biggest Non-Conference Win: Minnesota 70 vs Louisville 64
Biggest Non-Conference Loss: Drake 60 vs Iowa 43
Minnesota is the story of the Big Ten so far because of their early success under Tubby Smith. They scheduled cupcakes but came away with a huge win against Louisville last weekend. They are young and may not be as talented as other teams, but if they listen to Smith they can shock some people and push Purdue and Michigan State down the stretch. The overall quality of the Big Ten is nice especially since the only team with a losing record, Indiana, is rebuilding the program. Michigan has wins over UCLA and Duke this year so don't sleep on the Wolverines.
Where They Stand: ACC
Clemson 12-0 (1-0)
North Carolina 11-0 (0-0)
Wake Forest 11-0 (0-0)
Duke 10-1 (0-0)
Florida State 11-2 (0-0)
Boston College 10-2 (0-0)
Maryland 8-2 (0-0)
NC State 7-2 (0-0)
Georgia Tech 7-3 (0-0)
Virginia Tech 8-4 (0-0)
Virginia 5-4 (0-0)
Miami 7-3 (0-1)
Favorite: North Carolina
Contenders: Clemson, Duke, Wake Forest
Sleeper: Florida State
Destined For Last: Virginia
Biggest Non-Conference Win: North Carolina 98 vs Michigan State 63/ Duke 76 vs Purdue 60
Biggest Non-Conference Loss: Liberty 86 vs Virginia 82
Not much surprise in the ACC. North Carolina is destined to win the regular season and I doubt any team will put up a fight outside of maybe Duke. Florida State has been playing well all year but the shocker may be how well Wake Forest is playing. Many pundits said they were a year away but freshman forward Al-Farouq Aminu has emerged as a threat as well as sophomore sensation Jeff Teague. Miami has ground to make up but could also be dangerous as well.
North Carolina 11-0 (0-0)
Wake Forest 11-0 (0-0)
Duke 10-1 (0-0)
Florida State 11-2 (0-0)
Boston College 10-2 (0-0)
Maryland 8-2 (0-0)
NC State 7-2 (0-0)
Georgia Tech 7-3 (0-0)
Virginia Tech 8-4 (0-0)
Virginia 5-4 (0-0)
Miami 7-3 (0-1)
Favorite: North Carolina
Contenders: Clemson, Duke, Wake Forest
Sleeper: Florida State
Destined For Last: Virginia
Biggest Non-Conference Win: North Carolina 98 vs Michigan State 63/ Duke 76 vs Purdue 60
Biggest Non-Conference Loss: Liberty 86 vs Virginia 82
Not much surprise in the ACC. North Carolina is destined to win the regular season and I doubt any team will put up a fight outside of maybe Duke. Florida State has been playing well all year but the shocker may be how well Wake Forest is playing. Many pundits said they were a year away but freshman forward Al-Farouq Aminu has emerged as a threat as well as sophomore sensation Jeff Teague. Miami has ground to make up but could also be dangerous as well.
Friday, December 19, 2008
Weekend Picks
(6) Duke vs (7) Xavier (East Rutherford, NJ)
Defense will win this game. Sean Miller and Mike Krzyzewski are known for preaching defense. On paper Duke looks like the better but make no mistake, Xavier will be ready to play. It will be interesting to see what happens in the post. Xavier freshman center Kenny Frease has good size and is the x factor in this game. His battle with Brian Zoubek in the post could tip the balance of the game. Unfortunately for Xavier, Duke is playing well and is hitting on all cylinders.
Duke 81 vs Xavier 72
(9) Louisville vs Minnesota (Glendale, AZ)
Rick Pitino's team has been steamrolling the competition since their loss to Western Kentucky. Minnesota is a feel good story with their renaissance under the guidance of Tubby Smith. The Golden Gophers are undefeated but they face a tall task with mismatch forward Earl Clark. Clark should carry Louisville and will help create space on the perimeter for Jerry Smith, Edgar Sosa, and company.
Louisville 85 vs Minnesota 73
(19) Michigan State vs (5) Texas (Houston, TX)
Tom Izzo's Spartans have been underwhelming this year because of injuries to frontcourt players Goran Suton and prized freshman Delvon Roe. This has been a trying season but once they get healthy, MSU will be dangerous. Kalin Lucas on AJ Abrams will be a track race and if MSU loses Abrams in transition, then he could get 30. Dexter Pittman is going up against a thin frontcourt and is confidence has only been getting better.
Texas 79 vs Michigan State 70
Temple at Kansas
Normally this would be a Kansas rout but the world is rethinking Temple, especially after their domination of Tennessee last weekend. Guard Dionte Christmas is a marked man and will see a litany of defenders. If Kansas contains Christmas, then sophomore Cole Aldrich will be able to work in the post and collect a double double. Easier said then done, Temple will keep it close but Sherron Collins will win it for the Jayhawks.
Kansas 78 vs Temple 73
Arizona at UNLV
During a day of basketball throwdowns, this game is under the radar but could prove to be a classic. UNLV was the popular it team going into the season. Arizona was written off because of the program's turmoil and change after Lute Olsen's departure. UNLV is the home team and Wink Adams is a great talent but is in a tough matchup with Nic Wise. Chase Budinger will own the wing and budding star Jordan Hill will control the post. Or Arizona could continue their Jekyell and Hyde act and lose this game. I think the confidence because of the Gonzaga win will last.
Arizona 75 vs UNLV 73
(22) Davidson vs (13) Purdue (Indianapolis, IN)
I had a chance to see Stephen Curry play in the Jimmy V Classic two weeks ago. He was absolutely fantastic and won the game when he needed too. Purdue has more talent than West Virginia and they will put Chris Kramer on Curry and hope for the best. The rest of Davidson will have to deal with E'Twuan Moore and Robbie Hummel. In the post, the chiseled Andrew Lovedale will push around JaJuan Johnson but won't do the same against Nemanja Calasan. Purdue just has too much.
Purdue 78 vs Davidson 72
(2) Connecticut vs (8) Gonzaga (Seattle, WA)
Talent and more talent will be on the floor in Seattle. Jeremy Pargo goes up against AJ Price, Austin Daye against Jeff Adrien and Josh Heytvelt against Hasheem Thabeet. UConn junior Stanley Robinson is back from exile and may be a game or two away from being a factor. These two teams, no matter who wins or loses, will both be Final Four contenders in March. Pargo showed his weakness is a trapping zone. UConn will be all over him. Gonzaga will counter with scoring power and tough D. This could be the game of the day.
Gonzaga 84 vs Connecticut 83
(11) Syracuse at (23) Memphis
This game is actually easier to pick because of the recent news regarding Syracuse. Junior guard Eric Devendorf is suspended for the game and sophomore star Jonny Flynn is a game time decision with a hip injury. Without their starting backcourt, it will be a tall task for the 'Cuse to pull one out on the road. Memphis gets a quality win but with an asterisk.
Memphis 82 vs Syracuse 74
BYU at (20) Arizona State
Even if BYU, I don't think it would be an upset. They are on the cusp of being a Top 25 team and feature a star in forward Lee Cummard. Cummard will be locked in a scoring battle with NBA talent James Harden. The role players will decide this game and I like Jeff Pendergraph, Ty Abbott, and three point threat Rihards Kuksiks better than Jimmer Fredette and Jonathan Tavernari.
Arizona State 78 vs BYU 70
UPSET OF THE WEEKEND
(3) Pittsburgh at Florida State
The Seminoles have height, a lot of height. Pitt's main inside threat, the uber talented DeJuan Blair, is a shade over 6-7. The Seminoles will use this size and hope that they can stop or at least contain the other part of the Pitt trio in Levance Fields and the pump fake king Sam Young. Freshman Chris Singleton will say hello to the country with a tremendous performance. If they win, consider Florida State a team that will finish in the top five of the ACC.
Florida State 68 vs Pittsburgh 66
Last Week: 4-1
Season: 4-1
Defense will win this game. Sean Miller and Mike Krzyzewski are known for preaching defense. On paper Duke looks like the better but make no mistake, Xavier will be ready to play. It will be interesting to see what happens in the post. Xavier freshman center Kenny Frease has good size and is the x factor in this game. His battle with Brian Zoubek in the post could tip the balance of the game. Unfortunately for Xavier, Duke is playing well and is hitting on all cylinders.
Duke 81 vs Xavier 72
(9) Louisville vs Minnesota (Glendale, AZ)
Rick Pitino's team has been steamrolling the competition since their loss to Western Kentucky. Minnesota is a feel good story with their renaissance under the guidance of Tubby Smith. The Golden Gophers are undefeated but they face a tall task with mismatch forward Earl Clark. Clark should carry Louisville and will help create space on the perimeter for Jerry Smith, Edgar Sosa, and company.
Louisville 85 vs Minnesota 73
(19) Michigan State vs (5) Texas (Houston, TX)
Tom Izzo's Spartans have been underwhelming this year because of injuries to frontcourt players Goran Suton and prized freshman Delvon Roe. This has been a trying season but once they get healthy, MSU will be dangerous. Kalin Lucas on AJ Abrams will be a track race and if MSU loses Abrams in transition, then he could get 30. Dexter Pittman is going up against a thin frontcourt and is confidence has only been getting better.
Texas 79 vs Michigan State 70
Temple at Kansas
Normally this would be a Kansas rout but the world is rethinking Temple, especially after their domination of Tennessee last weekend. Guard Dionte Christmas is a marked man and will see a litany of defenders. If Kansas contains Christmas, then sophomore Cole Aldrich will be able to work in the post and collect a double double. Easier said then done, Temple will keep it close but Sherron Collins will win it for the Jayhawks.
Kansas 78 vs Temple 73
Arizona at UNLV
During a day of basketball throwdowns, this game is under the radar but could prove to be a classic. UNLV was the popular it team going into the season. Arizona was written off because of the program's turmoil and change after Lute Olsen's departure. UNLV is the home team and Wink Adams is a great talent but is in a tough matchup with Nic Wise. Chase Budinger will own the wing and budding star Jordan Hill will control the post. Or Arizona could continue their Jekyell and Hyde act and lose this game. I think the confidence because of the Gonzaga win will last.
Arizona 75 vs UNLV 73
(22) Davidson vs (13) Purdue (Indianapolis, IN)
I had a chance to see Stephen Curry play in the Jimmy V Classic two weeks ago. He was absolutely fantastic and won the game when he needed too. Purdue has more talent than West Virginia and they will put Chris Kramer on Curry and hope for the best. The rest of Davidson will have to deal with E'Twuan Moore and Robbie Hummel. In the post, the chiseled Andrew Lovedale will push around JaJuan Johnson but won't do the same against Nemanja Calasan. Purdue just has too much.
Purdue 78 vs Davidson 72
(2) Connecticut vs (8) Gonzaga (Seattle, WA)
Talent and more talent will be on the floor in Seattle. Jeremy Pargo goes up against AJ Price, Austin Daye against Jeff Adrien and Josh Heytvelt against Hasheem Thabeet. UConn junior Stanley Robinson is back from exile and may be a game or two away from being a factor. These two teams, no matter who wins or loses, will both be Final Four contenders in March. Pargo showed his weakness is a trapping zone. UConn will be all over him. Gonzaga will counter with scoring power and tough D. This could be the game of the day.
Gonzaga 84 vs Connecticut 83
(11) Syracuse at (23) Memphis
This game is actually easier to pick because of the recent news regarding Syracuse. Junior guard Eric Devendorf is suspended for the game and sophomore star Jonny Flynn is a game time decision with a hip injury. Without their starting backcourt, it will be a tall task for the 'Cuse to pull one out on the road. Memphis gets a quality win but with an asterisk.
Memphis 82 vs Syracuse 74
BYU at (20) Arizona State
Even if BYU, I don't think it would be an upset. They are on the cusp of being a Top 25 team and feature a star in forward Lee Cummard. Cummard will be locked in a scoring battle with NBA talent James Harden. The role players will decide this game and I like Jeff Pendergraph, Ty Abbott, and three point threat Rihards Kuksiks better than Jimmer Fredette and Jonathan Tavernari.
Arizona State 78 vs BYU 70
UPSET OF THE WEEKEND
(3) Pittsburgh at Florida State
The Seminoles have height, a lot of height. Pitt's main inside threat, the uber talented DeJuan Blair, is a shade over 6-7. The Seminoles will use this size and hope that they can stop or at least contain the other part of the Pitt trio in Levance Fields and the pump fake king Sam Young. Freshman Chris Singleton will say hello to the country with a tremendous performance. If they win, consider Florida State a team that will finish in the top five of the ACC.
Florida State 68 vs Pittsburgh 66
Last Week: 4-1
Season: 4-1
Friday, December 12, 2008
Weekend Picks
My picks for the top games of the weekend.
(8) Tennessee at Temple:
There is a lot to like about Bruce Pearl's team right now. Tyler Smith looks like he is becoming the star people know he can be and JUCO transfer Bobby Maze is handling the job at point guard with ease. Pearl is never afraid to schedule tough games but this is not the same Temple teams that we're accustomed to seeing. They beat Penn State is their last game and came within four points of knocking off Clemson. Those teams, however, are nowhere close to Tennessee.
Tennessee 82 at Temple 70
(17) Memphis at (19) Georgetown:
A heavyweight matchup last season and this year the game still has a lot of intrigue. Freshman Tyreke Evans (Memphis) and Greg Monroe (Georgetown) have been solid players so far this year. What this game comes down to is style. If Memphis can run and push the tempo, they could win. On the other side, if Georgetown slows down the pace than Memphis is in trouble. I like the guard play for Georgetown better with Jessie Sapp, Chris Wright, and Austin Freeman. DaJuan Summers and Robert Dozier could be a wash up front. The home team prevails, but it will be close.
Georgetown 71 vs Memphis 67
Indiana at Kentucky:
Normally this game is full of talent because these two programs are among the most storied in college basketball. IU's program is slowly getting built back up but a hostile Rupp Arena crowd won't cut them any slack. Indiana does not have a big man to match UK's sophomore sensation Patrick Patterson.
Kentucky 79 vs Indiana 60
Utah at (5) Oklahoma
This game has upset written all over but OU knows that and will come out on fire. Luke Nevill against Blake Griffin in the post should be fun to watch because both are big time talents. The role players will decide this game and Oklahoma, with Taylor Griffin, Willie Warren, Austin Johnson, and Cade Davis have more talent than a Utah team that did win at Oregon earlier this season. Oregon and Oklahoma are on two different levels right now, it won't be easy but Utah could make it interesting.
Oklahoma 80 vs Utah 73
(10) Xavier at Cincinnati
The Battle for Ohio is so much more now that Mick Cronin has Cincinnati on the rise. Xavier has posted some quality wins beating Missouri, Virginia Tech (on a buzzer beater), and Memphis in overtime. They have great talent in B.J. Raymond, Derrick Brown, C.J. Anderson, and Dante Jackson. If Xavier underestimates their opponent, they could lose. Cincinnati boasts Deonta Vaughn, Mike Williams, Alvin Mitchell, and freshman Yancy Gates. Their only loss came at the hands of rising ACC power Florida State. This looks like an upset game but Xavier knows that and it will eke one out. This game could be a classic.
Xavier 75 at Cincinnati 74
If your looking for upsets, there aren't many games that could provide it. Cincinnati has a chance as does Utah. One more possible upset game is Villanova at LaSalle. Jay Wright's club has not been playing well recently and that will give LaSalle a lot of confidence. They have players like Rodney Green, Kimmani Barrett, and a guy with a great name in Yves Mekongo Mbala. Watch out for this Philly slugfest.
(8) Tennessee at Temple:
There is a lot to like about Bruce Pearl's team right now. Tyler Smith looks like he is becoming the star people know he can be and JUCO transfer Bobby Maze is handling the job at point guard with ease. Pearl is never afraid to schedule tough games but this is not the same Temple teams that we're accustomed to seeing. They beat Penn State is their last game and came within four points of knocking off Clemson. Those teams, however, are nowhere close to Tennessee.
Tennessee 82 at Temple 70
(17) Memphis at (19) Georgetown:
A heavyweight matchup last season and this year the game still has a lot of intrigue. Freshman Tyreke Evans (Memphis) and Greg Monroe (Georgetown) have been solid players so far this year. What this game comes down to is style. If Memphis can run and push the tempo, they could win. On the other side, if Georgetown slows down the pace than Memphis is in trouble. I like the guard play for Georgetown better with Jessie Sapp, Chris Wright, and Austin Freeman. DaJuan Summers and Robert Dozier could be a wash up front. The home team prevails, but it will be close.
Georgetown 71 vs Memphis 67
Indiana at Kentucky:
Normally this game is full of talent because these two programs are among the most storied in college basketball. IU's program is slowly getting built back up but a hostile Rupp Arena crowd won't cut them any slack. Indiana does not have a big man to match UK's sophomore sensation Patrick Patterson.
Kentucky 79 vs Indiana 60
Utah at (5) Oklahoma
This game has upset written all over but OU knows that and will come out on fire. Luke Nevill against Blake Griffin in the post should be fun to watch because both are big time talents. The role players will decide this game and Oklahoma, with Taylor Griffin, Willie Warren, Austin Johnson, and Cade Davis have more talent than a Utah team that did win at Oregon earlier this season. Oregon and Oklahoma are on two different levels right now, it won't be easy but Utah could make it interesting.
Oklahoma 80 vs Utah 73
(10) Xavier at Cincinnati
The Battle for Ohio is so much more now that Mick Cronin has Cincinnati on the rise. Xavier has posted some quality wins beating Missouri, Virginia Tech (on a buzzer beater), and Memphis in overtime. They have great talent in B.J. Raymond, Derrick Brown, C.J. Anderson, and Dante Jackson. If Xavier underestimates their opponent, they could lose. Cincinnati boasts Deonta Vaughn, Mike Williams, Alvin Mitchell, and freshman Yancy Gates. Their only loss came at the hands of rising ACC power Florida State. This looks like an upset game but Xavier knows that and it will eke one out. This game could be a classic.
Xavier 75 at Cincinnati 74
If your looking for upsets, there aren't many games that could provide it. Cincinnati has a chance as does Utah. One more possible upset game is Villanova at LaSalle. Jay Wright's club has not been playing well recently and that will give LaSalle a lot of confidence. They have players like Rodney Green, Kimmani Barrett, and a guy with a great name in Yves Mekongo Mbala. Watch out for this Philly slugfest.
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