I had to make sure I got my picks in and surprised that I am even writing to you as I am pulling it out while hungover. I will put it to you this way, I met a guy from Djibouti which was something on my bucket lists of things to do.
Butler vs. Michigan State- People including myself have called the Bulldogs the "real life Hoosiers" and now the question is can they carry this run into the final game? I feel they aren't scared of anyone especially after knocking off Syracuse/Kansas State. Gordan Hayward could be a mismatch disaster for the Spartans as they really don't have a player his size to compete with. Also Matt Howard's foul trouble problems probably will not be as much of worry with the Spartans due to the lack of size of their big men. Now for Michigan State I feel they have that same sort of never scared attitude because they know they can win without Kalin Lucas. Korie Lucious played fantastic in last year's Final Four and he played a great tournament so far. Also do not sleep on Durrell Summers because he hits key shots and always seems to have the ball at the end of the game. I haven't picked Butler the entire year, and I want them to win tonight although I do not think they enough... so I will continue to doubt them. MSU 65-60
West Virginia vs. Duke- Some people in the media think that this should be the National Championship game and people have pointed out the inabilities of the Dukies against Big East teams (lost the last four times they have seen Big East opponents in the tourney, they have lost). I think Nolan Smith is the key individual in this game because the only guy that can guard him is Joe Mazzulla and if he gets in foul trouble, the Mountaineers are in trouble with Smith. The Mountaineers have the ability inside to beat Duke which I do not think I could say about a lot of the teams they faced. The one thing that should concern Blue Devil fans is Da'Sean Butler's big time moments. I do not think Duke has that guy who can make take over the game, but I think the overall depth of Duke pulls them to victories late in the game. I could see this game going down to the wire and somebody making the difference. I am going with Jon Scheyer hitting a big three with under twenty seconds. DUKE 75-73
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Showing posts with label Michigan State Spartans. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Michigan State Spartans. Show all posts
Saturday, April 3, 2010
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Tom Izzo: The Best Coach This Decade
Once again, I am probably going to piss off a ton of Wisconsin Badger fans by the title of this blog post because Bo Ryan has shown dominance over Michigan State's Tom Izzo in the regular season. Badgers fans would have to correct me but I think the record is something like 10-3 against Izzo. Then again, they never faced each other in the NCAA Tournament.
Izzo helped guide his Spartans to their second-straight Final Four and this is his sixth Final Four in twelve years. Let that sink in with you... That is a crazy stat if you really think about and only Coach K's run through the late 80s into the mid 90s could compare with that in modern day time. No way, no how can you put anyone with John Wooden's run with UCLA so I didn't even mention him because he is in a league of his own.
Unlike the coaches I mentioned in my argument with Doz, Izzo knows how to win in the late month of March. Somehow, someway he finds a way to win. I would argue that only Izzo's National Championship team in 2000 was the best team in the tournament. The Flintsone legacy in those three years cannot be overlooked, they were a one seed three straight years and made it to the Final Four all three times. Also let me mention that this is the second time, they have gotten into the Final Four as a fifth seed, this year you could say it was a lucky draw but Northern Iowa, in my opinion was a damn good team.
To the B-Squared's of the world, do not hate on Izzo for "just making the Final Four." Like I said in the previous paragraph, rarely is Izzo's team the one favored to win it out of the four remaining. The fact that he gets to what people would consider the Super Bowl of the NCAA College Basketball because there is so much build-up to it and excitement, rarely do people look forward more to Monday (For me, 2003 and 2005, only years that stand out). Izzo is a mainstay in the second weekend of the tourney and I am beating myself up for not riding Izzo to the Sweet 16 (c'mon who would believe they beat Kansas).
On to their actual team, I feel this team has a ton of heart. Especially after two close games, the Spartans knows how to win without Kalin Lucas. I love the late game heroics of various guys from Korie Lucious, Delvon Roe, Durrell Summers, and Draymond Green (also let me add the Dancing Bear will be awesome next year). People forget that they have veteran leadership from Raymar Morgan that got buried in this whole season with all the hype building on Lucas. I wouldn't be shocked if the Spartans finished the deal for Izzo's second crown.
-Charlie.
Izzo helped guide his Spartans to their second-straight Final Four and this is his sixth Final Four in twelve years. Let that sink in with you... That is a crazy stat if you really think about and only Coach K's run through the late 80s into the mid 90s could compare with that in modern day time. No way, no how can you put anyone with John Wooden's run with UCLA so I didn't even mention him because he is in a league of his own.
Unlike the coaches I mentioned in my argument with Doz, Izzo knows how to win in the late month of March. Somehow, someway he finds a way to win. I would argue that only Izzo's National Championship team in 2000 was the best team in the tournament. The Flintsone legacy in those three years cannot be overlooked, they were a one seed three straight years and made it to the Final Four all three times. Also let me mention that this is the second time, they have gotten into the Final Four as a fifth seed, this year you could say it was a lucky draw but Northern Iowa, in my opinion was a damn good team.
To the B-Squared's of the world, do not hate on Izzo for "just making the Final Four." Like I said in the previous paragraph, rarely is Izzo's team the one favored to win it out of the four remaining. The fact that he gets to what people would consider the Super Bowl of the NCAA College Basketball because there is so much build-up to it and excitement, rarely do people look forward more to Monday (For me, 2003 and 2005, only years that stand out). Izzo is a mainstay in the second weekend of the tourney and I am beating myself up for not riding Izzo to the Sweet 16 (c'mon who would believe they beat Kansas).
On to their actual team, I feel this team has a ton of heart. Especially after two close games, the Spartans knows how to win without Kalin Lucas. I love the late game heroics of various guys from Korie Lucious, Delvon Roe, Durrell Summers, and Draymond Green (also let me add the Dancing Bear will be awesome next year). People forget that they have veteran leadership from Raymar Morgan that got buried in this whole season with all the hype building on Lucas. I wouldn't be shocked if the Spartans finished the deal for Izzo's second crown.
-Charlie.
Friday, March 26, 2010
A Wonderful Night of Basketball/Friday's Picks
Well I was going to give you picks for tonight and tomorrow's games but didn't make it in time. I came down with some strange cold leading to me completely forgetting about doing it right before class. Anyways, I would have been wrong on two of this evening's game both out west so lets go there.
West
Butler stuns Syracuse- A game that I believed wouldn't have been close because I felt even without Arinze Onuaku, the inside game of Syracuse would propel them. But they lost their heads, just a complete lack of focus. Here's looking at you Andy Rautins, Scoop Jardine (biggest offender), and Brandon Triche. The Big East continues their poor performance and the worst lost of them all (I will get to this in the next blog post). Hopefully, West Virigina can save face and lead to them to the Final Four.
Kansas State survives Xavier- Is their tougher team that Kansas State? I thought it would be a down to the wire game and a bad coaching mistake would cost one team. No coach screwed it up and honestly, the Wildcats had a little bit left in the tank for that overtime especially Jacob Pullen. I think Pullen could have played five overtimes with that three he hit in the second OT, I mean that thing was pure and looked like a first half shot. Big ups to Jordan Crawford, a guy I rode off because I saw him shoot 2/18 against Marquette in November and saw him as a selfish player. Totally wrong, didn't play well for most of the game yet stepped it up when it mattered the most. He hit big shot after big shot in regulation, overtime, and then you could tell ran out of gas in second overtime. He is a hell of a player and will be an NBA player.
Midwest
9. Northern Iowa vs. 5. Michigan State- The game I would argue everyone is talking about right now... the Panthers who are riding high with the cover of Sports Illustrated and all the media attention they could possibly ask for. The Spartans are figuring out how they deal without Kalin Lucas, but that game-winner could give Korie Lucious the confidence he needed to be a great player for the Spartans the rest of the way. The Panthers outsize the Spartans and that works to their advantage in terms of rebounding. I know people are high as Cheech on UNI but I cannot bet against Tom Izzo in these types of situations. MSU 65-62
6. Tennessee vs. 2. Ohio State- Two coaches that are familiar with being in the Sweet 16 and the Vols have been giant killers this year knocking off Kansas/Kentucky without four of their players including their best player, Tyler Smith. Guys like J.P. Prince and Wayne Chism have been able to shoulder the load of the team and I personally feel the Vols believe they are can beat anybody. On the other hand, Ohio State keeps motoring along with one of the best starting fives in the NCAA and Evan Turner will need one of the supporting guys (Buford/Diebler/Lighty) to win this game. I can't see Turner doing it alone, this comes down to what team stays out of foul trouble, both have depth issues big time. I will take Fightin' Titus in a classic. OSU 73-71
South
1.Duke vs. 5. Purdue- Interesting matchup of a two styles that are quite similar and the "Ewing Theorists" have begun with saying the Boilermakers are fine without Robbie Hummel. I think people are forgetting the eggs that Purdue has laid without Hummel this season and usually it's against teams who have more than one threat. The arsenal that the Blue Devils will shell out is pretty deep and I have no idea with their lack of depth how Purdue keeps up with the all the sudden double-double man Brian Zoubek inside. DUKE 73-60
3. Baylor vs. 10. St. Mary's- A couple of basic unknowns in this deep in the NCAA Tournament and to be honest, I think this game will come down to whoever has the last shot. The Gaels have a strong outside shooting force that can keep them in any game plus Omar Samhan has been the star of the tournament. Baylor can out run pretty much anyone in the tournament right now, but have they really been challenged yet? I like the athletic style of Baylor too much to think that the Gaels will have enough firepower to keep up with them the entire game. BAY 79-71
-Charlie.
West
Butler stuns Syracuse- A game that I believed wouldn't have been close because I felt even without Arinze Onuaku, the inside game of Syracuse would propel them. But they lost their heads, just a complete lack of focus. Here's looking at you Andy Rautins, Scoop Jardine (biggest offender), and Brandon Triche. The Big East continues their poor performance and the worst lost of them all (I will get to this in the next blog post). Hopefully, West Virigina can save face and lead to them to the Final Four.
Kansas State survives Xavier- Is their tougher team that Kansas State? I thought it would be a down to the wire game and a bad coaching mistake would cost one team. No coach screwed it up and honestly, the Wildcats had a little bit left in the tank for that overtime especially Jacob Pullen. I think Pullen could have played five overtimes with that three he hit in the second OT, I mean that thing was pure and looked like a first half shot. Big ups to Jordan Crawford, a guy I rode off because I saw him shoot 2/18 against Marquette in November and saw him as a selfish player. Totally wrong, didn't play well for most of the game yet stepped it up when it mattered the most. He hit big shot after big shot in regulation, overtime, and then you could tell ran out of gas in second overtime. He is a hell of a player and will be an NBA player.
Midwest
9. Northern Iowa vs. 5. Michigan State- The game I would argue everyone is talking about right now... the Panthers who are riding high with the cover of Sports Illustrated and all the media attention they could possibly ask for. The Spartans are figuring out how they deal without Kalin Lucas, but that game-winner could give Korie Lucious the confidence he needed to be a great player for the Spartans the rest of the way. The Panthers outsize the Spartans and that works to their advantage in terms of rebounding. I know people are high as Cheech on UNI but I cannot bet against Tom Izzo in these types of situations. MSU 65-62
6. Tennessee vs. 2. Ohio State- Two coaches that are familiar with being in the Sweet 16 and the Vols have been giant killers this year knocking off Kansas/Kentucky without four of their players including their best player, Tyler Smith. Guys like J.P. Prince and Wayne Chism have been able to shoulder the load of the team and I personally feel the Vols believe they are can beat anybody. On the other hand, Ohio State keeps motoring along with one of the best starting fives in the NCAA and Evan Turner will need one of the supporting guys (Buford/Diebler/Lighty) to win this game. I can't see Turner doing it alone, this comes down to what team stays out of foul trouble, both have depth issues big time. I will take Fightin' Titus in a classic. OSU 73-71
South
1.Duke vs. 5. Purdue- Interesting matchup of a two styles that are quite similar and the "Ewing Theorists" have begun with saying the Boilermakers are fine without Robbie Hummel. I think people are forgetting the eggs that Purdue has laid without Hummel this season and usually it's against teams who have more than one threat. The arsenal that the Blue Devils will shell out is pretty deep and I have no idea with their lack of depth how Purdue keeps up with the all the sudden double-double man Brian Zoubek inside. DUKE 73-60
3. Baylor vs. 10. St. Mary's- A couple of basic unknowns in this deep in the NCAA Tournament and to be honest, I think this game will come down to whoever has the last shot. The Gaels have a strong outside shooting force that can keep them in any game plus Omar Samhan has been the star of the tournament. Baylor can out run pretty much anyone in the tournament right now, but have they really been challenged yet? I like the athletic style of Baylor too much to think that the Gaels will have enough firepower to keep up with them the entire game. BAY 79-71
-Charlie.
Monday, March 22, 2010
Sunday Observations: Love Lucious, Hate for Kramer, and a Perfect Final Four
Welcome back to the observations, I could not do it yesterday because I went on a complete Badger tangent that people decided was worthwhile enough to comment on. Thanks for the criticism, I love it and use it, but comment on other things that are less controversal! Call me out on my BS again if you would like, I would try to defend it!
I watched the finish of the Maryland-Michigan State game with B-Squared and honestly, we both were pulling hard for the Maryland Terps. First, I wanted to help save my bracket and second, to not give Eric the joy of seeing Tom Izzo in another Sweet 16. Grevis Vasquez, I realize most of you hate him but seriously, you have to give the guy credit for leading this amazing comeback in the last two minutes. Then Korie Lucious, pride and joy of Milwaukee, Wisconsin took the final shot and I wanted him so bad to make the final shot. It's pretty cool seeing a guy who played the same year that you graduate and knew all about his ballyhooed career starting in his freshman year of high school. I thought it was a great moment and hope that Lucious can lead his team far without Kalin Lucus.
I know Badger fans that we disagree on many things, but can we agree that Chris Kramer of Purdue is the biggest tool this side of the Mississippi? There are so many reasons why I hate this guy... first of all, he doesn't look like a basketball player rather a country-club kid who found a basketball court. Second of all, the way he carries himself bothers me probably the most, which I agree is somewhat weird since I usually love the cocky pricks on the court yet he seems to be worst than most. Third, he gels his hair, there should be a rule that no player non-foreign should ever gel their hair on the basketball court, it's not needed. Finally, the reason for the rant is he nailed the game-winner against Texas A&M knocking out another Sweet 16 team.
Finally I am close to last in both of my brackets BUT I have the entire Final Four correct so far and all of them looked damn good on Sunday. Syracuse (my champion) is showing why their 2-3 zone may break the balls of every team they play and if they rain threes like Sunday... rut roh. Ohio State just doing work in two games, nothing more nothing less. West Virginia is excelling from the play of Da'Sean Bulter who had 30 on Sunday keep winning too. The last team is the team no one is talking about... Duke. Brian Zoubek is a beast inside now and the Big 3 is hard to contain.
-Charlie.
I watched the finish of the Maryland-Michigan State game with B-Squared and honestly, we both were pulling hard for the Maryland Terps. First, I wanted to help save my bracket and second, to not give Eric the joy of seeing Tom Izzo in another Sweet 16. Grevis Vasquez, I realize most of you hate him but seriously, you have to give the guy credit for leading this amazing comeback in the last two minutes. Then Korie Lucious, pride and joy of Milwaukee, Wisconsin took the final shot and I wanted him so bad to make the final shot. It's pretty cool seeing a guy who played the same year that you graduate and knew all about his ballyhooed career starting in his freshman year of high school. I thought it was a great moment and hope that Lucious can lead his team far without Kalin Lucus.
I know Badger fans that we disagree on many things, but can we agree that Chris Kramer of Purdue is the biggest tool this side of the Mississippi? There are so many reasons why I hate this guy... first of all, he doesn't look like a basketball player rather a country-club kid who found a basketball court. Second of all, the way he carries himself bothers me probably the most, which I agree is somewhat weird since I usually love the cocky pricks on the court yet he seems to be worst than most. Third, he gels his hair, there should be a rule that no player non-foreign should ever gel their hair on the basketball court, it's not needed. Finally, the reason for the rant is he nailed the game-winner against Texas A&M knocking out another Sweet 16 team.
Finally I am close to last in both of my brackets BUT I have the entire Final Four correct so far and all of them looked damn good on Sunday. Syracuse (my champion) is showing why their 2-3 zone may break the balls of every team they play and if they rain threes like Sunday... rut roh. Ohio State just doing work in two games, nothing more nothing less. West Virginia is excelling from the play of Da'Sean Bulter who had 30 on Sunday keep winning too. The last team is the team no one is talking about... Duke. Brian Zoubek is a beast inside now and the Big 3 is hard to contain.
-Charlie.
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
I am an Idiot
Silly Chuck.
I should have realized that a Big Ten would fail to show up when they are "trying to do it for Detroit." Which became the most nauseating thing watching all of the pre-game coverage or the rehashing of Magic Johnson-Larry Bird which has been on overkill since the NBA Finals last year.
I told someone that I would rather have no Big East team in the final than put an embarrassment like that. They looked scared the entire game and they couldnt stop the three point shooters especially Wayne Ellington who was making it rain more than PacMan Jones at Scores Strip Club. Goran Suton failed to show up in the second straight game and they got an fail out of Chris Allen whose been key down the stretch. At least the Milwaukee product Korie Lucious had a big game for the Spartans.
I think when we look at back at the season North Carolina had, it wasnt one of the best ever but is this in the top 10 best tourney teams ever? Absolutely. They beat every team by 10+ and there wasnt one game where they looked like they had a legitimate shot to lose the game in the second half. Tyler Hansbrough, Wayne Ellington, Ty Lawson, and Danny Green were all excellent. In addition, obviously Hansbrough is gone but I expect the rest of them to leave.
The future is still very bright with Deon Thompson, Ed Davis, and Larry Drew all returning to create a formidable team that should be in the Top 15 to start off the season. Well I said at the end of the year I would do a Marquette review and look ahead which is possible although dont be surprised if it doesnt happen.
-Charlie.
I should have realized that a Big Ten would fail to show up when they are "trying to do it for Detroit." Which became the most nauseating thing watching all of the pre-game coverage or the rehashing of Magic Johnson-Larry Bird which has been on overkill since the NBA Finals last year.
I told someone that I would rather have no Big East team in the final than put an embarrassment like that. They looked scared the entire game and they couldnt stop the three point shooters especially Wayne Ellington who was making it rain more than PacMan Jones at Scores Strip Club. Goran Suton failed to show up in the second straight game and they got an fail out of Chris Allen whose been key down the stretch. At least the Milwaukee product Korie Lucious had a big game for the Spartans.
I think when we look at back at the season North Carolina had, it wasnt one of the best ever but is this in the top 10 best tourney teams ever? Absolutely. They beat every team by 10+ and there wasnt one game where they looked like they had a legitimate shot to lose the game in the second half. Tyler Hansbrough, Wayne Ellington, Ty Lawson, and Danny Green were all excellent. In addition, obviously Hansbrough is gone but I expect the rest of them to leave.
The future is still very bright with Deon Thompson, Ed Davis, and Larry Drew all returning to create a formidable team that should be in the Top 15 to start off the season. Well I said at the end of the year I would do a Marquette review and look ahead which is possible although dont be surprised if it doesnt happen.
-Charlie.
Monday, April 6, 2009
NCCA Championship Preview
Well before we start talking National Championship, I have a new blog that if you dont have a brain and like Chicago sports teams, this is a blog for you. Its called Man Up by my friend Mike.
Final day of college basketball which is always a sad day for me and the question is will this final game be entertaining? Last year was the first in a long while that was exciting for all parties to watch. I think it should be a good one as Michigan State takes on North Carolina.
-To start with State, they need a big night out of Goran Suton who faces the same daunting task as Dante Cunningham did on Saturday night by dealing with the gauntlet known as Tyler Hansbrough, Ed Davis, and Deon Thompson. He needs to have a great performance.
-The matchup of the night has to be Kalin Lucus vs. Ty Lawson. You could argue that these were the two best players in the NCCA Tournament this year and now they get to go up against each other which should be a fantastic cat/mouse game all night long. Watch out if one of these guys ends up in foul trouble.
-Another great battle should be Danny Green versus Raymar Morgan. Green who has been the catalyst throughout the tournament making big shots when needed and Morgan looked like last year version on Saturday night.
-I think if North Carolina doesnt want it close at the end, Wayne Ellington will need to be on point if he is making shots I feel no one in America can stop North Carolina.
-The bench play has been the reason these are the final two teams left and to be honest, nobody is deeper than North Carolina. Despite having the Dancing Bear-Draymond Green and Durrell Summers, they dont compare to Larry Drew, Tyler Zeller, and Ed Davis.
-I have a feeling this one we will be talking about all week but I think Carolina pulls it out in the very end. UNC 82-80
Final day of college basketball which is always a sad day for me and the question is will this final game be entertaining? Last year was the first in a long while that was exciting for all parties to watch. I think it should be a good one as Michigan State takes on North Carolina.
-To start with State, they need a big night out of Goran Suton who faces the same daunting task as Dante Cunningham did on Saturday night by dealing with the gauntlet known as Tyler Hansbrough, Ed Davis, and Deon Thompson. He needs to have a great performance.
-The matchup of the night has to be Kalin Lucus vs. Ty Lawson. You could argue that these were the two best players in the NCCA Tournament this year and now they get to go up against each other which should be a fantastic cat/mouse game all night long. Watch out if one of these guys ends up in foul trouble.
-Another great battle should be Danny Green versus Raymar Morgan. Green who has been the catalyst throughout the tournament making big shots when needed and Morgan looked like last year version on Saturday night.
-I think if North Carolina doesnt want it close at the end, Wayne Ellington will need to be on point if he is making shots I feel no one in America can stop North Carolina.
-The bench play has been the reason these are the final two teams left and to be honest, nobody is deeper than North Carolina. Despite having the Dancing Bear-Draymond Green and Durrell Summers, they dont compare to Larry Drew, Tyler Zeller, and Ed Davis.
-I have a feeling this one we will be talking about all week but I think Carolina pulls it out in the very end. UNC 82-80
Thursday, April 2, 2009
Michigan State-UConn Preview
Need to slipt this up into two articles because I have many thoughts about the four teams. You should only be so lucky.
(2) Michigan State vs. (1) UConn- Maybe I should change this to the Huskies at the Spartans which the Final Four being 70 miles away from the East Lansing campus. I must admit I chuckled a bit when I saw my friend Pat take the Spartans to win it all this year at the beginning of the tourney but now he is looking like the tourney guru at this point.
The big matchup of the night is to see the Goran Suton versus Hasheem Thabeet battle. I think Suton has the oppertunity to dominate Thabeet because of his mobility and passing. Suton has faced enough tough big guys inside throughout his four years and is the type of player that Thabeet doesnt show up against. Doz has also mentioned to me about Tom Herzog a seldomly used seven footer who could help out.
The other thing I really like about Michigan State is their depth. When teams are deep, they become very dangerous. Take Durrell Summer for example last Sunday who hit multiple big three pointers and I really like Draymond Green off the bench for them too.
UConn needs to have a good day out of A.J. Price who has failed to show up in the last couple of games and has needed the help of Kemba Walker/Craig Austrie to bail him out like the Federal Government. I also think Stanley Robinson needs to be explosive and be a spark plug like he has since the Marquette game in late February.
When all thats said and done, I think Michigan State continues their run with big time defense and great bench play. MSU 67-60
-Charlie
(2) Michigan State vs. (1) UConn- Maybe I should change this to the Huskies at the Spartans which the Final Four being 70 miles away from the East Lansing campus. I must admit I chuckled a bit when I saw my friend Pat take the Spartans to win it all this year at the beginning of the tourney but now he is looking like the tourney guru at this point.
The big matchup of the night is to see the Goran Suton versus Hasheem Thabeet battle. I think Suton has the oppertunity to dominate Thabeet because of his mobility and passing. Suton has faced enough tough big guys inside throughout his four years and is the type of player that Thabeet doesnt show up against. Doz has also mentioned to me about Tom Herzog a seldomly used seven footer who could help out.
The other thing I really like about Michigan State is their depth. When teams are deep, they become very dangerous. Take Durrell Summer for example last Sunday who hit multiple big three pointers and I really like Draymond Green off the bench for them too.
UConn needs to have a good day out of A.J. Price who has failed to show up in the last couple of games and has needed the help of Kemba Walker/Craig Austrie to bail him out like the Federal Government. I also think Stanley Robinson needs to be explosive and be a spark plug like he has since the Marquette game in late February.
When all thats said and done, I think Michigan State continues their run with big time defense and great bench play. MSU 67-60
-Charlie
Saturday, March 28, 2009
Elite Eight Wrap Up
Once again, I am sorry for not getting predictions out the last two days because my computer decided to die on me Saturday afternoon but I watched all of the games for the most part so I will dissect them.
UConn 82 Missouri 75- This game was back and forth all game long although the Huskies should their teeth by defeating the Tigers. UConn struggled with the press defense of Missouri who frustrated them the entire game and the Tigers virtually shut down A.J. Price. But this game was a coming-out party for the former McDonald All-American Kemba Walker who dropped 17 and could prove to be very big for the Huskies on Saturday night. Hasheem Thabeet once again had huge blocks but really nothing impressive on the offensive end. Dont get me wrong I like Blake Griffin but people go nuts for a simple dunk by Griffin; I feel they do the same way when Thabeet gets a block.
Villanova 78 Pittsburgh 76- This was an awful decision made by Eric and I last night. Both of us had already ate but the Chinese Buffet named Jade Garden was calling our name. But as the basketball Gods held out for us to see the final shot only to have Brett lock us out before it, I was just livid. From what I heard on the radio, Dwayne Anderson for Nova was the difference maker and Levance Fields was once-again clutch for the Panthers. Good for coach Jay Wright whose had some really good teams in the past and this wasnt his best squad although its the only one on the Final Four.
Michigan State 64 Louisville 52- I am shocked and stunned my good friend Dozer who hates the Big East and loves the Big Ten, I didnt get a text message about how the Big Ten's best beat the Big East's best today handily. Terrence Williams proved why he isnt a top-tier player as the Spartans put a big body on him. The Cardinals havent had a bad game since Notre Dame thirty point beating and today was their next one. Goran Suton 17 points in the first half plus three from behind the arc was demoralizing as anything for the Cardinals. Durrell Summers' three point shooting also had alot to do with the win today.
North Carolina 72 Oklahoma 60- This was the matchup I was excited for all season long and it sucked worse than the second Dumb and Dumber. North Carolina goes wire-to-wire after starting off the game 7-0. Blake Griffin was allowed to have a typical game with 23 points and 16 rebounds but no one else on his team stepped up. Austin Johnson, Tony Crocker, and Willie Warren (minus four minutes) didnt step up the whole game. In addition, once again no one had a guard to keep up with Ty Lawson. I think I said it before the Gonzaga game that the reason North Carolina wins is because their bench is so deep. Danny Green was also the reason they had an eleven point lead going into the half with 14 points in the first half.
I will cover the Final Four probably Thursday with a wrap-up Sunday and an overall season wrap-up Tuesday/Wednesday.
-Charlie.
UConn 82 Missouri 75- This game was back and forth all game long although the Huskies should their teeth by defeating the Tigers. UConn struggled with the press defense of Missouri who frustrated them the entire game and the Tigers virtually shut down A.J. Price. But this game was a coming-out party for the former McDonald All-American Kemba Walker who dropped 17 and could prove to be very big for the Huskies on Saturday night. Hasheem Thabeet once again had huge blocks but really nothing impressive on the offensive end. Dont get me wrong I like Blake Griffin but people go nuts for a simple dunk by Griffin; I feel they do the same way when Thabeet gets a block.
Villanova 78 Pittsburgh 76- This was an awful decision made by Eric and I last night. Both of us had already ate but the Chinese Buffet named Jade Garden was calling our name. But as the basketball Gods held out for us to see the final shot only to have Brett lock us out before it, I was just livid. From what I heard on the radio, Dwayne Anderson for Nova was the difference maker and Levance Fields was once-again clutch for the Panthers. Good for coach Jay Wright whose had some really good teams in the past and this wasnt his best squad although its the only one on the Final Four.
Michigan State 64 Louisville 52- I am shocked and stunned my good friend Dozer who hates the Big East and loves the Big Ten, I didnt get a text message about how the Big Ten's best beat the Big East's best today handily. Terrence Williams proved why he isnt a top-tier player as the Spartans put a big body on him. The Cardinals havent had a bad game since Notre Dame thirty point beating and today was their next one. Goran Suton 17 points in the first half plus three from behind the arc was demoralizing as anything for the Cardinals. Durrell Summers' three point shooting also had alot to do with the win today.
North Carolina 72 Oklahoma 60- This was the matchup I was excited for all season long and it sucked worse than the second Dumb and Dumber. North Carolina goes wire-to-wire after starting off the game 7-0. Blake Griffin was allowed to have a typical game with 23 points and 16 rebounds but no one else on his team stepped up. Austin Johnson, Tony Crocker, and Willie Warren (minus four minutes) didnt step up the whole game. In addition, once again no one had a guard to keep up with Ty Lawson. I think I said it before the Gonzaga game that the reason North Carolina wins is because their bench is so deep. Danny Green was also the reason they had an eleven point lead going into the half with 14 points in the first half.
I will cover the Final Four probably Thursday with a wrap-up Sunday and an overall season wrap-up Tuesday/Wednesday.
-Charlie.
Friday, March 27, 2009
Friday Picks
Well I am making it a goal to actually make it through the games tonight and not pass out early like last night. I was surprised to see how Missouri played last night and the three Big East schools won flexing their muscle.
MIDWEST:
(1) Louisville vs. (12) Arizona- I think this game is going to be a lot better than people expect it to be. Arizona was a team that underachieved all year and have picked the right time to find their step. I like how they matchup with the Cardinals tonight and the big factor will be if Chase Bundiger can stop Terrence Williams. I am not a huge fan of Williams but I guess I have to give him credit for his play in the recent weeks, it seems like no one can stop him. Jordan Hill vs. Samardo Samuels will be another key match up in the game. Edgar Sosa always seems to come up clutch in big games so look out for him. I think the run for Arizona ends tonight because I think Louisville is too tough for them to keep up with. LOUIS 79-75
(2) Michigan State vs. (3) Kansas- This game is a rematch from earlier on this season where in the previous matchup, the Spartans got the best of the Jayhawks in Breslin. This is a new Kansas team though with the improved play of Cole Aldrich. I watched Michigan State on Sunday and I never realized how smooth their offense runs plus Kalin Lucus is an absolute stud for them. I think a key factor will be if the Jayhawks can find a third scorer because if not, it could be a long night. I think the Spartans are too much for Kansas tonight with good play from Lucus, Goran Suton, and Travis Walton. MSU 69-63
SOUTH
(1) North Carolina vs. (4) Gonzaga- This game has interested me more in the past couple of days because I feel like the Zags have the formula to beat North Carolina if they put their best effort. Jeremy Pargo can keep up with Ty Lawson and Josh Heytvelt can neutralize Tyler Hansbrough. Although when it comes down to it, the bench of North Carolina is the reason they are going to win this game with the improved play of Ed Davis and others. It will be close but the Tar Heels pull it out. UNC 84-78
(2) Oklahoma vs. (3) Syracuse- The best game of the night by far. Both teams matchup so well with each other, it will be hard to pick a winner. The question of the night will be if Arinze Onuaku and Rick Jackson will be able to neutralize Blake Griffin. On the outside, I think Johnny Flynn can contain Willie Warren but I would watch out for Austin Johnson when he is on, its lights out for other teams. The same could be said about Andy Rautins. Look for a close battle with the Orange coming out victoriously. CUSE 86-83
-Charlie.
MIDWEST:
(1) Louisville vs. (12) Arizona- I think this game is going to be a lot better than people expect it to be. Arizona was a team that underachieved all year and have picked the right time to find their step. I like how they matchup with the Cardinals tonight and the big factor will be if Chase Bundiger can stop Terrence Williams. I am not a huge fan of Williams but I guess I have to give him credit for his play in the recent weeks, it seems like no one can stop him. Jordan Hill vs. Samardo Samuels will be another key match up in the game. Edgar Sosa always seems to come up clutch in big games so look out for him. I think the run for Arizona ends tonight because I think Louisville is too tough for them to keep up with. LOUIS 79-75
(2) Michigan State vs. (3) Kansas- This game is a rematch from earlier on this season where in the previous matchup, the Spartans got the best of the Jayhawks in Breslin. This is a new Kansas team though with the improved play of Cole Aldrich. I watched Michigan State on Sunday and I never realized how smooth their offense runs plus Kalin Lucus is an absolute stud for them. I think a key factor will be if the Jayhawks can find a third scorer because if not, it could be a long night. I think the Spartans are too much for Kansas tonight with good play from Lucus, Goran Suton, and Travis Walton. MSU 69-63
SOUTH
(1) North Carolina vs. (4) Gonzaga- This game has interested me more in the past couple of days because I feel like the Zags have the formula to beat North Carolina if they put their best effort. Jeremy Pargo can keep up with Ty Lawson and Josh Heytvelt can neutralize Tyler Hansbrough. Although when it comes down to it, the bench of North Carolina is the reason they are going to win this game with the improved play of Ed Davis and others. It will be close but the Tar Heels pull it out. UNC 84-78
(2) Oklahoma vs. (3) Syracuse- The best game of the night by far. Both teams matchup so well with each other, it will be hard to pick a winner. The question of the night will be if Arinze Onuaku and Rick Jackson will be able to neutralize Blake Griffin. On the outside, I think Johnny Flynn can contain Willie Warren but I would watch out for Austin Johnson when he is on, its lights out for other teams. The same could be said about Andy Rautins. Look for a close battle with the Orange coming out victoriously. CUSE 86-83
-Charlie.
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