I don't normally do this because frankly, for the most part, I don't care about Women's College Basketball but I have to give some props to the ladies. How can I not? This team loses two big-time players, including Monique Currie who went really high in the WNBA Draft, and they are picked to finish a distant 3rd in the ACC this year and what do they do? They go undefeated 29-0. One thing about the top ladies programs, which usually isn't indicative of the men is that in order for these teams to get on national television, they have to schedule each other. So, for instance, this 29-0 is not watered down sort of like St. Joseph's undefeated run until they lost to Xavier in the A-10 Tourney was in 2004. This team is 10-0 against Top 25 teams, including an astounding 4 wins over Top 5 opponents. They've beaten UNC twice, Maryland (the national champion last year) twice, Tennessee (on the road with Bruce Pearl not wearing anything but orange body paint which was like one big dry heave), and UCONN.
Even though I've only seen bits and pieces of a few games, this team looks like they have it all. They have Allison Bales, who at 6'7'' would make me nervous if I met up with her in an alley, Lindsey Harding who is probably the favorite for POY, and Abby Waner, Greg Paulus' boo, who may even be a better shooter than he is.
The problem with this team is the same problem that plagued Duke in the late 80s and early 90s: the perception that their coach, Coach G, can't win the big game. Many people forget but before Roy Williams got the royal treatment for not winning the big game, Coach K was vehemently criticized for not winning one. He had come up short in 86, 88, 89, and 90 and there were murmurs who would bail to the NBA to take the Celtics job because he couldn't handle the unfair criticism he received. Now, 3 Championships, 700 wins, and 6 more Final 4's later and all of those critics seem to be hiding. Unfortunately, for Coach G, the same perception will exist. I believe she's made it to 4 Final 4's including the title game last season where in vintage Duke fashion, they blew a huge 2nd Half lead to fall to Maryland in OT.
No matter what, they have the #1 overall seed in the NCAA Tournament. So, the age old argument appears: Would a loss be beneficial to the Blue Devils to alleviate some pressure? Some would say yes, I would say no just because even if they lose, they have been far and away the best team in the nation that even a loss wouldn't alleviate the pressure they have to win a national title. Good luck to the ladies. This will be my first and last post for the ladies unless they cut down the nets the first week in April, hopefully, at least in my fantasy world, a day after the men's team does the same.
Monday, February 26, 2007
Sunday, February 25, 2007
Devils "Storm" Out To Big Lead, Never Look Back
Duke absolutely dismantled St. John's earlier today 67-50 with myself in attendance. How refreshing was it to see Duke win with such ease considering even their non-conference games against mid-majors were a little too close for comfort? The Blue Devils "stormed" out to a 12-0 lead and never looked back. They were efficient on offense and their defense, which has been tremendous all year, was even more suffocating today holding the Red Storm to 10, count them, 10 1st Half Points.
Up 34-10 at the break, I knew the game was over even if DeMarcus, Greg, and Josh all got hit my elephants on the way to the locker room. And, for anyone who knows me, they know how pessimistic I am. My girlfriend wondered why I wasn't happy when Duke was up 21 at Clemson earlier in the week. I told her "I've seen them blow leads just like this" And guess what? They almost did. But, almost doesn't count. If my grandma had wheels, she'd be a car but she doesn't have wheels. My point, after that long digression, is that I am so confident in this team right now. They have showed their grit time and time again this season and now they are playing Top 10 basketball, not Top 25. Are they better than UNC, Florida, Ohio State, Wisconsin? No, I don't think so. Those teams, even though three of them went down this weekend, seem to be more of a finished product than Duke but can't you see them getting there?
I've been saying all week that I wasn't so much upset about the 4-game losing streak but I was upset that they were losing these games despite exerting tremendous effort and playing winning basketball. Outside of the first few minutes at Maryland, they played winning basketball and hurt that they couldn't reap the benefits. Is this team winning the championship? Odds say they will not and unfortunately, I will concur with the odds but I'm telling you something now that I didn't believe earlier in the year, I wouldn't be surprised if this team made a run and when I say run, I mean straight to Atlanta for the Final 4 (given the right matchups). Now, with that said, this team could get bounced in the 1st Round as well and to be honest, this team has the look of the 1996 team that was upset by Earl Boykins and Eastern Michigan in the 1st Round. But, given the way this team competes and plays defense, this team could certainly make a run and upset one of these giants atop the nation to go to Atlanta.
As for the game, someone forgot to tell Josh that block parties are usually in the summer because he blocked 6 shots and it seemed like 12. Lamont Hamilton looked like a little girl out there against Josh and he's a big guy, I've seen him doing his homework (talking to some ladies on MySpace) in the computer lab. Even though Josh and DeMarcus were great, the MVP was Greg Paulus. He had a game high 19 points but again, he hit big shots and I will reiterate, he is their money guy.
On a sad note, you may never see Marty Pocius play again after his negligent behind the back bounce pass. If you've watched Duke basketball over the years, the one thing K will not tolerate is unnecessary fanciness. Note to Marty, you play about 5 minutes a game, save the behind the back bounce pass for the Lithuanian National Team. Also, I feel bad for Brian Zoubek. I really hope he stays with Duke after this year even if they get Patrick Patterson because despite what we've seen, I think he could be good. But, he's having a hard time adjusting to Coach K's man-to-man principles since he admittedly has played zone his whole basketball life. Hang in there Zoub, your time will come especially if Josh bolts after this year, which I still go on record as saying that it would be an immense mistake. He belongs in the college game right now, nowhere else.
Next up for Duke is Maryland on Senior Night on Wednesday. The emotion, however, won't be as high in previous Senior Nights because there are no scholarship Seniors on the team. I believe only Jordan Davidson, a walk-on, is a Senior. This will be a tough game considering Maryland could be one of the hottest teams in the country over the past few weeks, seemingly after they beat Duke. DJ Strawberry, at 3-6 in conference, guaranteed they would win the next 7 games and at 8-6 now, he has made good on that promise. If he stays away from the nose candy, that his father obviously couldn't, he could be a pro. Watching Maryland upset UNC tonight though, I realized that this guy Vasquez is the straw that stirs the drink for this team and he gave Paulus some fits in their first meeting. I expect Duke to use the crowd to their advantage and win this game. I also think the Terps may have a letdown, even though they are playing hated Duke, because the UNC win made them a lock in the NCAA's. I am so proud of this team.
Prediction: Duke 75 Maryland 71
Saturday, February 24, 2007
Hugs v. Thugs Sunday
If anyone thinks this St. John's game is going to be easy this year, you need to get your head examined. Duke should and in all probability will win the game but it will be a war. The Johnnies are always ready to play Duke and they usually give Duke problems offensively since they play that playground defense. Ever since 1999, these games have been absolute duels and whoever is left standing wins. Remember, in 1999, Duke was unbeatable with their only loss coming in this 1st week of the season on a dunk at the buzzer against Cincy and they walked into MSG and it was one of the best games of the year in college basketball. It went to 2OT's with Bootsy Thorton scoring 40 points but in the end, it was too much Elton Brand. The next year, the Johnnies went into Cameron and shocked the Blue Devils 83-82 on a last second shot. In fact, that loss to St. John's in 2000 is the last non-conference loss Duke has had at home.
After two hard fought wins in 2001 and 2002 for Duke, the Blue Devils went into MSG ranked #5 in the country against a St. John's team that was reeling. This was the first Duke game I ever saw in person. God, I was excited. I was in awe watching them warm up and then to see K in person was amazing. For 38 minutes, the game went according to plan. It was a grind but Duke held a consistent double-digit lead the entire game. The lead was 71-60 when Dahntay Jones, a Jersey native, fouled out of the ballgame with two minutes left. Then, St. John's hit a 3 and my brother made the remark that he will NEVER live down for the rest of his life. This remark earned him the status as the biggest jinx in history. After the 3, St. John's pressured full court and Duke broke the press. In a crowd of red, my brother stands up and taunts the fans saying "You can't press Duke baby, you can't press Duke!!" Duke then turned the ball over and the Johnnies came down and scored. Duke then proceeded to turn the ball over 3 consecutive times due to that full court press that my brother was so adamant that Duke could break and the Johnnies tied the game up. At 71-71, Duke held the ball for what seemingly would be the last shot. With about 5 seconds left, Daniel Ewing tried to make a move with the ball and Marcus Hatten, in what was a worse molestation than anything Michael Jackson could've done, knocked Ewing on the floor, stole the ball, and rushed down the court where he missed a layup as time expired. Okay, I said to myself, let's go to overtime and win this thing until I hear "He was fouled" They called a foul on Chris Duhon for apparently breathing on Hatten and he was awarded free-throws with no time left in the game. Still, no one can explain to me how if he was fouled shooting the ball, why no time would be on the clock. Or better yet, what did Duhon do? On the replay, it shows that Duhon doesn't touch Hatten at all. Hatten sinks the first free throw, St. John's wins in improbable fashion, I feel nauseous and start screaming at St. John's fans at the top of my lungs "Enjoy the NIT, enjoy the NIT" That was indeeed a dark day.
The last two matchups have been grinds but Duke has won each one. However, Dockery got hurt in the 2005 matchup because of the blatant thuggery of St. John's. So, tomorrow it's the battle of the Hugs, the finesse team, and the Thugs, the bruiser team. Who will prevail? Hopefully, Duke. If not, you can see me on suicide watch with Britney Spears on Monday. I am a Johnnies student but my allegiance is with the Blue Devils.
After two hard fought wins in 2001 and 2002 for Duke, the Blue Devils went into MSG ranked #5 in the country against a St. John's team that was reeling. This was the first Duke game I ever saw in person. God, I was excited. I was in awe watching them warm up and then to see K in person was amazing. For 38 minutes, the game went according to plan. It was a grind but Duke held a consistent double-digit lead the entire game. The lead was 71-60 when Dahntay Jones, a Jersey native, fouled out of the ballgame with two minutes left. Then, St. John's hit a 3 and my brother made the remark that he will NEVER live down for the rest of his life. This remark earned him the status as the biggest jinx in history. After the 3, St. John's pressured full court and Duke broke the press. In a crowd of red, my brother stands up and taunts the fans saying "You can't press Duke baby, you can't press Duke!!" Duke then turned the ball over and the Johnnies came down and scored. Duke then proceeded to turn the ball over 3 consecutive times due to that full court press that my brother was so adamant that Duke could break and the Johnnies tied the game up. At 71-71, Duke held the ball for what seemingly would be the last shot. With about 5 seconds left, Daniel Ewing tried to make a move with the ball and Marcus Hatten, in what was a worse molestation than anything Michael Jackson could've done, knocked Ewing on the floor, stole the ball, and rushed down the court where he missed a layup as time expired. Okay, I said to myself, let's go to overtime and win this thing until I hear "He was fouled" They called a foul on Chris Duhon for apparently breathing on Hatten and he was awarded free-throws with no time left in the game. Still, no one can explain to me how if he was fouled shooting the ball, why no time would be on the clock. Or better yet, what did Duhon do? On the replay, it shows that Duhon doesn't touch Hatten at all. Hatten sinks the first free throw, St. John's wins in improbable fashion, I feel nauseous and start screaming at St. John's fans at the top of my lungs "Enjoy the NIT, enjoy the NIT" That was indeeed a dark day.
The last two matchups have been grinds but Duke has won each one. However, Dockery got hurt in the 2005 matchup because of the blatant thuggery of St. John's. So, tomorrow it's the battle of the Hugs, the finesse team, and the Thugs, the bruiser team. Who will prevail? Hopefully, Duke. If not, you can see me on suicide watch with Britney Spears on Monday. I am a Johnnies student but my allegiance is with the Blue Devils.
Friday, February 23, 2007
YEAH!!!! Devils Top Tigers @ Littlejon
For all you rap fans, you know you love my title. Duke held on for dear life tonight to beat a desperate Clemson team that turned it on a little too late and that may have cost them an NCAA Tournament bid. Amazing, considering Clemson was the last Division I undefeated team at 17-0 but let's be honest, that had a little something to do with that Charmin soft non-conference schedule that Oliver Purnell put together. Since that red hot start, the Tigers are 2-8 and should basically start packing for Madison Square Garden now because they are headed for the NIT. That really isn't fair because you can't tell me that Clemson is not one of the best 65 teams in the country. Should they penalized for playing in the toughest conference in America? Enough Clemson.
It was a tale of two halves. The first half, although I missed about half of it due to that brutal Corporate Finance Midterm I had but that's a different story, was tremendous. Duke took advantage of Clemson's overplaying on defense and Greg Paulus has really come into his own. I'll be the first to admit, after the first G Tech game, I had come to the conclusion that Paulus was going to be mediocre at best but every since he's been aggressive shooting the ball, he's been a totally different player. In fact, I think it's fair to say that he's their money guy right now. Against Tech on Sunday, it was his big 3 that stopped the Tech run and tonight he hit a cold blooded 3 pointer when things werent going well.
The 2nd Half was certainly a struggle for Duke but I pretty much expected Clemson to come back because this was really their season on the line tonight. Even though I didn't like the turnovers off the press, I loved the fact that they didn't air out the ball at the end of the game. They stayed aggressive (i.e. Josh down the lane) and that's why they will head up the New Jersey Turnpike winners of 3 straight and have an NCAA birth in their pocket. Jon Sheyer hit two huge 3's, one out of a timeout that essentially clinched the game for Duke.
I'll tell you what, for as much as this team has struggled this year, they are 21-7 with the 3rd hardest schedule in the nation. Considering their age and absence of a true superstar, this has been a tremendous season even though it may not be living up to the "Duke tradition" I love this team, I love how hard they play, I love that they have flaws but work their asses off to make up for them. Huge road win for Duke!
Next up is a non-conference showdown with St. John's, of which I will be in attendance. Now, I do go to St. John's but don't think that I hold any type of allegiance to them. They pay my tuition that's it. Duke is where my heart is and that will never change. Although I think Duke is more talented and will win, I have a nervous feeling about a let down in addition to the altercation I had with Anthony Mason Jr. on campus where he shouted at me " Yo, Duke sucks homey" of which I responded "They beat you last year" So, basically Mason will go for 50 points and the Johnnies will pull off the upset. Hey, don't laugh. I was there with my brother in 2003 when Duke blew an 11 point lead with 2 minutes left against an inferior St. John's team led by Marcus "Man" Hatten. That was the first Duke game I ever saw live. It was the only loss. Let's keep it that way guys.
Prediction: Duke 68 SJU 50
It was a tale of two halves. The first half, although I missed about half of it due to that brutal Corporate Finance Midterm I had but that's a different story, was tremendous. Duke took advantage of Clemson's overplaying on defense and Greg Paulus has really come into his own. I'll be the first to admit, after the first G Tech game, I had come to the conclusion that Paulus was going to be mediocre at best but every since he's been aggressive shooting the ball, he's been a totally different player. In fact, I think it's fair to say that he's their money guy right now. Against Tech on Sunday, it was his big 3 that stopped the Tech run and tonight he hit a cold blooded 3 pointer when things werent going well.
The 2nd Half was certainly a struggle for Duke but I pretty much expected Clemson to come back because this was really their season on the line tonight. Even though I didn't like the turnovers off the press, I loved the fact that they didn't air out the ball at the end of the game. They stayed aggressive (i.e. Josh down the lane) and that's why they will head up the New Jersey Turnpike winners of 3 straight and have an NCAA birth in their pocket. Jon Sheyer hit two huge 3's, one out of a timeout that essentially clinched the game for Duke.
I'll tell you what, for as much as this team has struggled this year, they are 21-7 with the 3rd hardest schedule in the nation. Considering their age and absence of a true superstar, this has been a tremendous season even though it may not be living up to the "Duke tradition" I love this team, I love how hard they play, I love that they have flaws but work their asses off to make up for them. Huge road win for Duke!
Next up is a non-conference showdown with St. John's, of which I will be in attendance. Now, I do go to St. John's but don't think that I hold any type of allegiance to them. They pay my tuition that's it. Duke is where my heart is and that will never change. Although I think Duke is more talented and will win, I have a nervous feeling about a let down in addition to the altercation I had with Anthony Mason Jr. on campus where he shouted at me " Yo, Duke sucks homey" of which I responded "They beat you last year" So, basically Mason will go for 50 points and the Johnnies will pull off the upset. Hey, don't laugh. I was there with my brother in 2003 when Duke blew an 11 point lead with 2 minutes left against an inferior St. John's team led by Marcus "Man" Hatten. That was the first Duke game I ever saw live. It was the only loss. Let's keep it that way guys.
Prediction: Duke 68 SJU 50
Monday, February 19, 2007
TECH-nically In...
Of course, I am referring to Duke and the NCAA Tournament. After nailing down their 7th ACC win by stinging back the Yellow Jackets on Sunday and couple that with their strength of schedule and low RPI and Duke is just about in the tourney barring a monumental collapse that would probably mean Duke losing the rest of their games and bowing out in the 1st Round of the ACC Tournament.
Duke came out inspired and although Tech crawled back in the game in the 2nd Half, I never felt like they were going to lose, mainly because Greg Paulus answered the bell every time they made a big run. Paulus was amazing today and with good contributions from Sheyer, Nelson, and Lance Thomas defensively, Duke would not be denied. They outplayed Tech from the opening tip and that effort earned Coach K his 700th win at Duke, a feat that must be recognized.
This post will be brief because BRB is currently swamped with school work but great win for Duke, congratulations to Coach K, and hopefully they can keep this momentum going into Clemson, a game that will be a payback game for Clemson after ClockGate. This season has been a year of streaks for Duke. They started off winning their first four games before losing to Marquette. Then, they won 9 straight until they lost two in a row to open ACC play against VA Tech and Georgia Tech. Then, Duke went on a 5 game winning streak only to give it back by losing 4 in a row. Now, Duke has won two in a row and hopefully they can turn that into 3, 4, 5 etc...
Next up is Clemson on Thursday night. Even though it will be a revenge game, I see Duke winning this game. Clemson has clearly lost their confidence and after starting the season off 17-0, they are 19-7 and coming off a blowout loss to Maryland at home. If Duke can stay out of foul trouble, I see Duke locking up an NCAA bid on Thursday night.
Prediction: Duke 70 Clemson 58
Friday, February 16, 2007
Every Miss Begins With K
First off, I love Coach K. But, I've been all over message boards ever since the Virginia game and everyone and anyone with a brain realizes that taking the air out of the ball is a bad idea, ESPECIALLY with this team.
For 15 years, I've been a devout Duke fan and I have seen them implore this style over and over again and sure, it works a majority of the time but it doesn't a percentage of the time and that percentage, even if it is small, leads to the most agonizing losses I've experienced as a sports fan. Outside of the Giants blowing a 38-14 lead in a playoff game against San Francisco, all of the most brutal losses I've ever experienced have been from Duke. Whether it was blowing a 10-point lead at the end of the 1994 Title game because of pulling back on the offense or blowing an 18 point lead in the Elite 8 against Kentucky, which gift wrapped a title for the most overrated coach in history, Tubby Smith or blowing a 17 point lead in the 2002 Sweet 16 to an inferior Indiana team, which I will over and over deem as the worst Duke loss in history considering the way it happened, how good the team was and how bad Indiana was or the 2004 National Semifinal against UCONN when they blew an 8-point lead with 2 minutes left and pissed away their 4th National Title.
I hate this philosophy. It is the equivalent to a prevent defense in football and in both cases, they prevent you from winning. You can't play not to lose especially with this team. For years, Duke has gotten away with imploring this strategy because they had the Johnny Dawkins, the Grant Hills, the William Averys, the Jason Williams, the Chris Duhons of the world that could wind the clock down all the way and then use their superior dribble penetration skills to either drive to the hoop or drive and kick to an open shooter. However, this year, Greg Paulus and Jon Sheyer are not dribble penetrators. They are excellent shooters but they can't create their own shot either so when they wind the clock down they never get a good shot.
Now, next year with Nolan Smith, this strategy will work a little better but please, for the love of God, stop doing it and if you're going to do it then please, throw Josh in the post and don't keep at the top of the circle. Let's see if they abandon this philosophy come Sunday against Georgia Tech or they give me, and every other Duke fan, a heart attack. It's not the team, it's the philosophy. Every good coach adapts to his players and in order for this team to maxmize its potential, it must run its normal, half court offense for a FULL 40 MINUTES!!
For 15 years, I've been a devout Duke fan and I have seen them implore this style over and over again and sure, it works a majority of the time but it doesn't a percentage of the time and that percentage, even if it is small, leads to the most agonizing losses I've experienced as a sports fan. Outside of the Giants blowing a 38-14 lead in a playoff game against San Francisco, all of the most brutal losses I've ever experienced have been from Duke. Whether it was blowing a 10-point lead at the end of the 1994 Title game because of pulling back on the offense or blowing an 18 point lead in the Elite 8 against Kentucky, which gift wrapped a title for the most overrated coach in history, Tubby Smith or blowing a 17 point lead in the 2002 Sweet 16 to an inferior Indiana team, which I will over and over deem as the worst Duke loss in history considering the way it happened, how good the team was and how bad Indiana was or the 2004 National Semifinal against UCONN when they blew an 8-point lead with 2 minutes left and pissed away their 4th National Title.
I hate this philosophy. It is the equivalent to a prevent defense in football and in both cases, they prevent you from winning. You can't play not to lose especially with this team. For years, Duke has gotten away with imploring this strategy because they had the Johnny Dawkins, the Grant Hills, the William Averys, the Jason Williams, the Chris Duhons of the world that could wind the clock down all the way and then use their superior dribble penetration skills to either drive to the hoop or drive and kick to an open shooter. However, this year, Greg Paulus and Jon Sheyer are not dribble penetrators. They are excellent shooters but they can't create their own shot either so when they wind the clock down they never get a good shot.
Now, next year with Nolan Smith, this strategy will work a little better but please, for the love of God, stop doing it and if you're going to do it then please, throw Josh in the post and don't keep at the top of the circle. Let's see if they abandon this philosophy come Sunday against Georgia Tech or they give me, and every other Duke fan, a heart attack. It's not the team, it's the philosophy. Every good coach adapts to his players and in order for this team to maxmize its potential, it must run its normal, half court offense for a FULL 40 MINUTES!!
Wednesday, February 14, 2007
Duke, Not Cupid Shoots Arrow Through BC's Heart
First, before anything else, it feels good to be on the winning end after a two week drought. The Dukies played inspired led by Josh McRoberts and DeMarcus Nelson, who is officially out of my doghouse with a tremendous effort offensively and more importantly, on the defensive end against Jared Dudley, who despite what BC fans believe, is anything but studly. He is, however, the hands down choice for ACC POY and he was held to the quietest 11 points.
Second, memo to Coach K: I love you, you are my Jesus. I am captivated when you talk, you're a tremendous humanitarian, you're one of the best coaches in any collegiate sport ever but please, for my health, STOP TAKING THE AIR OUT OF THE BALL!!! PLAY TO WIN THE GAME!!! Okay, sorry to sound like Herm Edwards there but please, I don't think my heart was beating from the 8 minute mark until Greg Paulus scored on a fast break layup off the Jon Sheyer steal. Up 24 in the 2nd Half, you can't let that happen. That was almost catastrophic but you know what if my Grandma had wheels she'd be a car.
Okay, enough on the negatives and let's look at the positives. Josh McRoberts was phenomenal baby with a capital "P". He dominated in the post and listen, I know Oates couldn't guard the chair I'm sitting in right now but he still dominated. In fact, I don't mind taking the air out of the ball but instead of keeping McRoberts at the top of the circle, throw him in the post when you do that and dump it down to him so he can either create for himself or draw a double and kick it out to an open shooter. DeMarcus Nelson regained his form from earlier in the year tonight and he really pushed Duke over the top at the end of the game with a fast break layup and a big 3-pointer out of the corner.
In conclusion, I am so proud of this team. They could've fallen apart like a $39 suit due to all the hating and doubting from the media and anti-Dukies but they came out and gave a superior effort against the best team, at least in the standings, in the ACC. I say in the standings because let's be real, North Carolina is the best team in the league even though VA Tech would have something to say about that. All of a sudden, despite the 4-game losing streak, Duke is 5th in a conference that will almost definitely get 8 bids come NCAA Tournament time. However, this game means very little if they lay an egg against Georgia Tech at home on Sunday afternoon. Don't forget, the game is at 1pm and if I were to do a statistical analysis on Duke in games 2pm or before, they have to be under .500. It seems like they always play poorly in those afternoon games and I hope that doesn't occur on Sunday. Sure, Georgia Tech is more athletic than they are and they beat them earlier in the year but Duke needs to reestablish their home court advantage and a win against Tech puts them in great position to go to the NCAA Tournament. Good job guys.
Prediction Time: Yes, I will predict this one after not predicting the last two games because of disgust and uncertainty. I think Duke uses this momentum to beat Tech on Sunday in a close game that they pull away late in because of a crazy crowd. Remember, Patrick Patterson is watching.
Duke 73 Georgia Tech 65
On a side note, Karl Ravech needs to hide his hatred of Duke a little better. His not so subtle remarks that I've picked up ever since the ACC Final against Tech in 2005 when JJ got away with a blatant push. AND, you want to talk about people hating Duke. How about in the Penn State/Ohio State game where the Penn State fans whose team hasn't won in 9 games and is playing the #2 team in the nation has a sign that says "Up Next, Duke loses...again" I mean Jesus H. Christ, leave this team alone.
Totally off topic but I want to wish my girl a Happy Valentine's Day. We weren't able to spend the night together because of the snow storm and my concussion. There's nothing like my Blue Devil girl.
4 Game Skid Could Hurt Duke More Than Just This Year
One of the things I have been clamoring about during this streak is the fact that not only is it crippling Duke's NCAA chances by the day, it may hurt their future and by that I mean they might miss out on highly-tauted Patrick Patterson next year. Although Patterson hasn't narrowed his list of schools down at all (I think only Arkansas Pine-Bluff has been ruled out), the main schools he is supposedly considering are Duke, Kentucky, Virginia, and West Virginia, who seems to be a long shot considering he would not fit in to their style of play (1-3-1 Zone). I think once OJ Mayo decided to go to USC, West Virginia went out the window. So, that leaves Kentucky, Duke, and Virginia. Although it hurts to say, he makes the most sense at Virginia. They are guard heavy and desperate for an interior man of his caliber. However, Sean Singletary could bolt after this season and JR Reynolds is a Senior so their team won't be as strong next year. That should factor into Patterson's decision immensely. He makes the least amount of sense for Kentucky considering their weakness is outside shooting and their biggest strength is Randolph Morris on the inside. Then, there is Duke who desperately needs him. Sure, they have Josh McRoberts and Brian Zoubek certainly has upside but they need a go-to post player like Patterson who is drawing comparisons to Elton Brand.
According to Dick Weiss and I want to go on record to say I think this would be a bad idea but McRoberts is gone after this year. I think it's a bad idea because this will be the deepest draft class since 1996 with talent and I can't see McRoberts being anything but a late first round pick based solely on his potential. He was better off leaving last year. He needs to stick around for another year, work on his perimeter shot and then bolt next year in a much weaker class, one that will be guard heavy as well (Mayo, Eric Gordon, Derrick Rose). So, anyways, Patterson hasn't indicated when he will make his decision. He was impressed by Duke when he was down there and actually witnessed their last win against BC on Shelden Williams Day. BUT, it couldn't have helped when he watched Virginia upset Duke in front of an electric crowd. AND, it certainly isn't helping that this team is struggling so much. The only positive you could take out of this 4-game losing streak is that it's obvious to anyone with eye sight that Duke is in desperate need of a post presence. Patterson will instantly give them that. So, let's halt this steak, get on the right track, get into the NCAA's, win a game or two, and regroup with Patterson joining an already stellar recruiting class led by Kyle Singler, Taylor King, and Nolan Smith. If McRoberts hangs around and they get Patterson, Duke will be ranked in the Top 5 Preseason Poll for sure.
If Coach K hasn't already did it, I am pleading to Patrick Patterson, come to Duke, we need you!!
According to Dick Weiss and I want to go on record to say I think this would be a bad idea but McRoberts is gone after this year. I think it's a bad idea because this will be the deepest draft class since 1996 with talent and I can't see McRoberts being anything but a late first round pick based solely on his potential. He was better off leaving last year. He needs to stick around for another year, work on his perimeter shot and then bolt next year in a much weaker class, one that will be guard heavy as well (Mayo, Eric Gordon, Derrick Rose). So, anyways, Patterson hasn't indicated when he will make his decision. He was impressed by Duke when he was down there and actually witnessed their last win against BC on Shelden Williams Day. BUT, it couldn't have helped when he watched Virginia upset Duke in front of an electric crowd. AND, it certainly isn't helping that this team is struggling so much. The only positive you could take out of this 4-game losing streak is that it's obvious to anyone with eye sight that Duke is in desperate need of a post presence. Patterson will instantly give them that. So, let's halt this steak, get on the right track, get into the NCAA's, win a game or two, and regroup with Patterson joining an already stellar recruiting class led by Kyle Singler, Taylor King, and Nolan Smith. If McRoberts hangs around and they get Patterson, Duke will be ranked in the Top 5 Preseason Poll for sure.
If Coach K hasn't already did it, I am pleading to Patrick Patterson, come to Duke, we need you!!
Tuesday, February 13, 2007
Coach K-Od?
I was just listening to the Coach K Daily Radio Show from the past two days and he sounds like his wife just died or something. He sounds totally listless and I hope his tone from those shows doesn't translate to the entire team because if it does, throw the dirt on the rest of the season. I guess we'll find out tomorrow night. Until then...
Monday, February 12, 2007
Bubble Boys?
Today Duke dropped out of the Top 25 for the first time in 12 years. Although it's a sad day for Duke Nation, let's be realistic: this team is STILL in great position to make the NCAA Tournament. No team with an RPI under 30 has ever missed the NCAA Tournament as an at-large team. Duke will finish the season even if they lose the rest of their games with an RPI of under 30. As of now, Duke's schedule is #4 in the country. By the end of the year, many predict it will be #1. So, here's the situation for Duke: win your remaining home games and beat St. John's at the Garden to avoid a bad loss and you're ALMOST definitely in the tournament. If they win their remaining home games, beat St. John's and steal one of the last three on the road at either Clemson, BC, or UNC and they are a lock.
Let's be real here, Duke has struggled over the past month but you can't tell me that they are not one of the best 65 teams in the country. In fact, outside of the MD game last night, Duke has outplayed Virginia, FSU, and UNC before blowing double-digit leads in each. It's not like they are playing bad basketball. All they need is one win to regain their confidence and they are on their way to the tourney but they can't let this continue to spiral out of control.
In addition to the tough schedule and the RPI, this team has notched some great wins, including 6 Top 50 wins:
Top 25
Georgetown
Indiana
Air Force
Top 50
Clemson
BC
Gonzaga
Not to mention, they've beaten teams who are in contention to go to the NCAA Tournament like:
Davidson
Kent State
Holy Cross
All of their losses this season are to teams who are currently in the NCAA Tournament according to Bracketology on ESPN:
Marquette - N
VA Tech - H
G Tech - A
Virginia - A
FSU - H
UNC - H
MD - A
Goal for this team:
4-2 down the stretch
Win the remaining 2 home games (G Tech, MD)
Win 1 of 3 Road ACC Games (BC, Clemson, UNC) --> which will give them their elite road win
Win @ St. John's
Tough, not impossible. Go Duke!
Let's be real here, Duke has struggled over the past month but you can't tell me that they are not one of the best 65 teams in the country. In fact, outside of the MD game last night, Duke has outplayed Virginia, FSU, and UNC before blowing double-digit leads in each. It's not like they are playing bad basketball. All they need is one win to regain their confidence and they are on their way to the tourney but they can't let this continue to spiral out of control.
In addition to the tough schedule and the RPI, this team has notched some great wins, including 6 Top 50 wins:
Top 25
Georgetown
Indiana
Air Force
Top 50
Clemson
BC
Gonzaga
Not to mention, they've beaten teams who are in contention to go to the NCAA Tournament like:
Davidson
Kent State
Holy Cross
All of their losses this season are to teams who are currently in the NCAA Tournament according to Bracketology on ESPN:
Marquette - N
VA Tech - H
G Tech - A
Virginia - A
FSU - H
UNC - H
MD - A
Goal for this team:
4-2 down the stretch
Win the remaining 2 home games (G Tech, MD)
Win 1 of 3 Road ACC Games (BC, Clemson, UNC) --> which will give them their elite road win
Win @ St. John's
Tough, not impossible. Go Duke!
Sunday, February 11, 2007
Terps Come Out of Their Shell Against Devils
I was considering leaving the first couple of paragraphs in this post blank and then writing a solid post from there on to symbolize the effort the Blue Devils gave tonight but I decided against it. The Blue Devils put forth a spirited effort and played pretty well but the problem is they started playing the game down 29-9 while Maryland played hard from the opening tip. I can't remember a game where a Duke team was so blatantly out hustled by the other team especially on the road. BUT, like most things, this team is different than other Duke teams. Say whatever you want about this team but they have always played hard and came to play each and every possession. Until tonight! They were knocked on their heels early and made this kid Vasquez look like the second coming of Bob Cousy in the process.
Two players who really earned a trip into my doghouse tonight were Greg Paulus and DeMarcus Nelson. First, I won't get on Paulus as hard as Nelson because for the most part, he's been very consistent over the last month of the season. However, it seemed like he really let the crowd and full court pressure take him out of his game, he never recovered, and it cost the Blue Devils dearly. As for Nelson, he's been absolutely dreadful ever since the BC win, which consequently was Duke's last win. It's pretty unbelievable but almost halfway through the month, Duke is win less in February. Nelson committed 3 fouls in the first 6 minutes of the game and was a virtual non-factor in the 1st Half. You would think he'd come out with reckless abandon in the 2nd Half but instead, he kept turning the ball over and hurting the team more than he was helping them. If he keeps this up, he has to be more acquainted with the bench and people like Marty Pocius, who gives them nothing but positive minutes and Gerald Henderson need to get more PT.
I just don't get it. This team is struggling and you finally go on a little run with Marty in there and they take him out in favor of Nelson, he gives them nothing, and Maryland goes on another run that would seal the game. Another thing: Where was Brian Zoubek? I don't give a damn about matchups and the other team going small, don't punish the kid because most of the ACC has undersized centers who are really power forwards. Zoubek gave you a tremendous spark off the bench for the Carolina game and he needs more game experience.
Here's something that I never thought I would write on this blog: Duke may be headed towards the NIT. Many experts believe they will get in if they go 7-9 in conference but there isn't a strong precedent for such an action. AND not to mention, that is no foregone conclusion that they will win another two games within the conference. Personally, I think they need 8 conference wins to assure themselves a birth in the tournament so that means they need to take care of business at home against GT and Maryland and they need to find a win out of BC, Clemson, and UNC on the road not to mention they CAN'T lose at St. John's on the 25th. Why? One, I will be in attendance. Two, that would be considered a "bad loss" by the selection committee and they can't afford such a blemish on an already shaky tournament resume.
I'm in just as much disarray as the Dukies. I have no idea what to expect anymore. I want to keep believing and I will NEVER give up on this team but I just don't know how many shots they can take to the stomach without falling down and never getting back up. This team is very vulnerable, they have very little experience and they don't have a go-to guy and they still have D-U-K-E across their jerseys, which means they are circled on every teams calendar.
Next up is BC (1st in the ACC) on the road on Wednesday night. Duke beat them earlier in the year on Shelden Williams night but they haven't beat anyone since. BC is coming off a thrilling win over FSU today and they are dying for another shot at knocking off Duke. Expect a much better effort tonight but it will have to be a great effort for the result to be any different than the last four.
No Prediction. =(
Two players who really earned a trip into my doghouse tonight were Greg Paulus and DeMarcus Nelson. First, I won't get on Paulus as hard as Nelson because for the most part, he's been very consistent over the last month of the season. However, it seemed like he really let the crowd and full court pressure take him out of his game, he never recovered, and it cost the Blue Devils dearly. As for Nelson, he's been absolutely dreadful ever since the BC win, which consequently was Duke's last win. It's pretty unbelievable but almost halfway through the month, Duke is win less in February. Nelson committed 3 fouls in the first 6 minutes of the game and was a virtual non-factor in the 1st Half. You would think he'd come out with reckless abandon in the 2nd Half but instead, he kept turning the ball over and hurting the team more than he was helping them. If he keeps this up, he has to be more acquainted with the bench and people like Marty Pocius, who gives them nothing but positive minutes and Gerald Henderson need to get more PT.
I just don't get it. This team is struggling and you finally go on a little run with Marty in there and they take him out in favor of Nelson, he gives them nothing, and Maryland goes on another run that would seal the game. Another thing: Where was Brian Zoubek? I don't give a damn about matchups and the other team going small, don't punish the kid because most of the ACC has undersized centers who are really power forwards. Zoubek gave you a tremendous spark off the bench for the Carolina game and he needs more game experience.
Here's something that I never thought I would write on this blog: Duke may be headed towards the NIT. Many experts believe they will get in if they go 7-9 in conference but there isn't a strong precedent for such an action. AND not to mention, that is no foregone conclusion that they will win another two games within the conference. Personally, I think they need 8 conference wins to assure themselves a birth in the tournament so that means they need to take care of business at home against GT and Maryland and they need to find a win out of BC, Clemson, and UNC on the road not to mention they CAN'T lose at St. John's on the 25th. Why? One, I will be in attendance. Two, that would be considered a "bad loss" by the selection committee and they can't afford such a blemish on an already shaky tournament resume.
I'm in just as much disarray as the Dukies. I have no idea what to expect anymore. I want to keep believing and I will NEVER give up on this team but I just don't know how many shots they can take to the stomach without falling down and never getting back up. This team is very vulnerable, they have very little experience and they don't have a go-to guy and they still have D-U-K-E across their jerseys, which means they are circled on every teams calendar.
Next up is BC (1st in the ACC) on the road on Wednesday night. Duke beat them earlier in the year on Shelden Williams night but they haven't beat anyone since. BC is coming off a thrilling win over FSU today and they are dying for another shot at knocking off Duke. Expect a much better effort tonight but it will have to be a great effort for the result to be any different than the last four.
No Prediction. =(
Thursday, February 8, 2007
Carolina Has The "Wright" Stuff
Behind Brandon Wright's monster game, Carolina withstood a spirited effort by the Dukies last night 79-73. You really couldn't ask for better effort from Duke last night. They played spirited, the crowd was amazing, and that propelled them to a comfortable lead until about 5 minutes left in the game when Carolina finally took the lead and did not relinquish it.
Jon Sheyer was spectacular in the loss and you can't help but be excited about what kind of player he will become in the next four years at Duke. It seemed like a coming out party early on for Gerald Henderson who clearly wanted this game bad with his best buddy, Ellington, on the opposing sideline. Greg Paulus was tremendous again as he continues his revitalization at the PG spot but even with those big-time performances, it still wasn't enough to beat Carolina.
David McClure's defense was tremendous on Hansbrough, who is becoming the most overrated player in the nation. The guy can't shoot from anywhere beyond 6 feet from the basket, he's soft defensively and yet he gets every call sort of like JJ got last year. Attention, this guy does not deserve that kind of respect. The reason why his numbers are so inflated this year is because Brandon Wright, who if you've talked to me, was actually on his way to Duke early on, is one of the toughest matchups in all of college basketball. To me, you have three can't miss players right now in college basketball at the next level: Oden(even though I don't think he will be a great offensive player), Durant, and Wright. He's tremendously long and he really hurt Duke down the stretch.
For the second consecutive game, Duke was in control of the game until McRoberts picked up a couple of dumb fouls, which on a team that isn't deep, changes the way they play. If Josh is on the bench, they lose another ball handler especially when teams press, they lose a good defender in the middle, and they lose one of their captains. However, when he's on the floor with all these fouls, he's forced to play the matador defense and when he does that coupled with the fact that he never looked for his offensive game last night, he's pretty much useless on the floor. He must be smarter, he's picking up the silly fouls Shelden used to get his Frosh/Soph years. Also, it's becoming quite clear that Josh needs to be a four-year player. He'll always be a first round draft pick because of his potential, athleticism, and his ability to handle the ball so well at his size but for a guy who likes to hang around the perimeter, he must become a better shooter. Also, he needs to learn how to finish around the basket. But, don't think I'm getting on him but I hate for such a talented player to always be thinking pass. SHOOT THE BALL JOSH!
I'll tell you who has been brutal lately, DeMarcus Nelson. I won't fault him for the missed tip at the end of the FSU game but down 64-63, you can't miss two free throws. You just can't. I know Sheyer missed 2 of 3 earlier but lets be honest, he had made 40 straight before that, something had to give.
Also, notice that Nelson and McRoberts didn't start. I called that with my brother earlier this week. I told him a couple of big names would hit the bench. That's the K style after a loss or two but the problem is usually when K does that, the starters who were benched come off the bench to have amazing games. Here, Josh and DeMarcus actually went the other way and it cost the Blue Devils dearly. That's now three consecutive games where the Dukies blew a double-digit lead and it has hurt them big time. Now, they stand 5-5 in the ACC and the schedule doesn't get any easier. if you think going to College Park to play Maryland will be easy, you need your head examined. No team in the K era has consistently played great against Duke like Maryland has under Gary Williams. AND, lets not forget, Maryland is in a must win situation at well with their NCAA Tournament hopes hanging in the balance.
Could the Blue Devils be sitting their on Selection Sunday wondering if their name will be called or not? That would be brutal. The task is this, win 3 more games in the ACC and the St. John's game at the Garden and you're going to the NCAA Tournament. In 1996, Duke made the NCAA Tournament as a #8 seed when they went 8-8 in the ACC. AND, in a year where the ACC is arguably the best conference, Duke's SOS will be around #1, and at least having 6 Top 50 wins under their belt (Air Force, Georgetown, Indiana, Clemson, BC, Gonzaga), they will get in at 8-8. What would be nice is a marquee road win and Sunday at Maryland would be a nice start. This is a must win for the Devils and I think the season may hang in the balance as well. I look for Duke to bounce back in a big way and exercise some demons in College Park with a big win.
Prediction: Duke 72 Maryland 65
Jon Sheyer was spectacular in the loss and you can't help but be excited about what kind of player he will become in the next four years at Duke. It seemed like a coming out party early on for Gerald Henderson who clearly wanted this game bad with his best buddy, Ellington, on the opposing sideline. Greg Paulus was tremendous again as he continues his revitalization at the PG spot but even with those big-time performances, it still wasn't enough to beat Carolina.
David McClure's defense was tremendous on Hansbrough, who is becoming the most overrated player in the nation. The guy can't shoot from anywhere beyond 6 feet from the basket, he's soft defensively and yet he gets every call sort of like JJ got last year. Attention, this guy does not deserve that kind of respect. The reason why his numbers are so inflated this year is because Brandon Wright, who if you've talked to me, was actually on his way to Duke early on, is one of the toughest matchups in all of college basketball. To me, you have three can't miss players right now in college basketball at the next level: Oden(even though I don't think he will be a great offensive player), Durant, and Wright. He's tremendously long and he really hurt Duke down the stretch.
For the second consecutive game, Duke was in control of the game until McRoberts picked up a couple of dumb fouls, which on a team that isn't deep, changes the way they play. If Josh is on the bench, they lose another ball handler especially when teams press, they lose a good defender in the middle, and they lose one of their captains. However, when he's on the floor with all these fouls, he's forced to play the matador defense and when he does that coupled with the fact that he never looked for his offensive game last night, he's pretty much useless on the floor. He must be smarter, he's picking up the silly fouls Shelden used to get his Frosh/Soph years. Also, it's becoming quite clear that Josh needs to be a four-year player. He'll always be a first round draft pick because of his potential, athleticism, and his ability to handle the ball so well at his size but for a guy who likes to hang around the perimeter, he must become a better shooter. Also, he needs to learn how to finish around the basket. But, don't think I'm getting on him but I hate for such a talented player to always be thinking pass. SHOOT THE BALL JOSH!
I'll tell you who has been brutal lately, DeMarcus Nelson. I won't fault him for the missed tip at the end of the FSU game but down 64-63, you can't miss two free throws. You just can't. I know Sheyer missed 2 of 3 earlier but lets be honest, he had made 40 straight before that, something had to give.
Also, notice that Nelson and McRoberts didn't start. I called that with my brother earlier this week. I told him a couple of big names would hit the bench. That's the K style after a loss or two but the problem is usually when K does that, the starters who were benched come off the bench to have amazing games. Here, Josh and DeMarcus actually went the other way and it cost the Blue Devils dearly. That's now three consecutive games where the Dukies blew a double-digit lead and it has hurt them big time. Now, they stand 5-5 in the ACC and the schedule doesn't get any easier. if you think going to College Park to play Maryland will be easy, you need your head examined. No team in the K era has consistently played great against Duke like Maryland has under Gary Williams. AND, lets not forget, Maryland is in a must win situation at well with their NCAA Tournament hopes hanging in the balance.
Could the Blue Devils be sitting their on Selection Sunday wondering if their name will be called or not? That would be brutal. The task is this, win 3 more games in the ACC and the St. John's game at the Garden and you're going to the NCAA Tournament. In 1996, Duke made the NCAA Tournament as a #8 seed when they went 8-8 in the ACC. AND, in a year where the ACC is arguably the best conference, Duke's SOS will be around #1, and at least having 6 Top 50 wins under their belt (Air Force, Georgetown, Indiana, Clemson, BC, Gonzaga), they will get in at 8-8. What would be nice is a marquee road win and Sunday at Maryland would be a nice start. This is a must win for the Devils and I think the season may hang in the balance as well. I look for Duke to bounce back in a big way and exercise some demons in College Park with a big win.
Prediction: Duke 72 Maryland 65
Wednesday, February 7, 2007
The Battle of the Blues
Duke v. UNC, Royal Blue v. Baby Blue, K v. Roy. Only 8 miles and one interstate highway separates these two schools. I urinate on Michigan v. Ohio State, I laugh at Texas A&M v. Texas, this is the greatest college rivalry, in any sport. The only other rivalry in sports that possibly exceeds that of Duke v. UNC is the Yankees and Red Sox. BUT, even with that, the rivalry is kind of watered down since they play 19 times a year (not counting the playoffs). Duke v. UNC is a twice a year spectacle and when we are lucky, we get them for a 3rd time in the ACC Tournament. They have never met in NCAA Tournament even though they've been very close (see 1991 Final Four).
I dread Carolina but I do respect their program. They are responsible for some of the greatest NBA talent the nation has ever seen whether it was Jordan, Worthy, Perkins or Stackhouse, Wallace, and Vince Carter. The list is very long of great and classy players for this program. It may seem like the rivalry isn't as volatile as it used to be with K and Dean Smith since K and Roy Williams seem to like each other a little bit.
Tonight for Duke, however, this game isn't about bragging rights. It's about obtaining an identity and getting back in the win column. Duke cannot afford another ACC loss and they need to seize every opportunity they can with the home crowd behind them. A loss tonight would drop them to 5-5 in the ACC with 6 very tough games remaining. A win could catapult their confidence and lead them toward the NCAA Tournament for the twelfth consecutive season.
On paper, Carolina is the superior team but let's not forget, they are also very young, starting 3 freshmen. I can't envision any possibility of Duke beating Carolina in the Dean Dome on Senior Night so this is their chance to shine. The crowd will certainly be into it but they need everyone to step up and stay out of foul trouble. Carolina is the deepest team in the country. Look for them to run guys in and out of the game especially to pressure Greg Paulus with the ball. Greg will need to flawless with the ball for the Blue Devils to have any shot. He will also have to do his best to stop dribble penetration by Ty Lawson. To me, he's the X factor. If Greg Paulus circa Virginia Tech shows up, Duke will get embarrassed in their building tonight. He shows aggressiveness, knocks down his shots, and creates for others, they have a fighters chance. I expect the game to be close, let's just hope they don't run out of steam before the game is over.
Whether you're religious or not, you better get on your knees and pray before this one. They need it.
I dread Carolina but I do respect their program. They are responsible for some of the greatest NBA talent the nation has ever seen whether it was Jordan, Worthy, Perkins or Stackhouse, Wallace, and Vince Carter. The list is very long of great and classy players for this program. It may seem like the rivalry isn't as volatile as it used to be with K and Dean Smith since K and Roy Williams seem to like each other a little bit.
Tonight for Duke, however, this game isn't about bragging rights. It's about obtaining an identity and getting back in the win column. Duke cannot afford another ACC loss and they need to seize every opportunity they can with the home crowd behind them. A loss tonight would drop them to 5-5 in the ACC with 6 very tough games remaining. A win could catapult their confidence and lead them toward the NCAA Tournament for the twelfth consecutive season.
On paper, Carolina is the superior team but let's not forget, they are also very young, starting 3 freshmen. I can't envision any possibility of Duke beating Carolina in the Dean Dome on Senior Night so this is their chance to shine. The crowd will certainly be into it but they need everyone to step up and stay out of foul trouble. Carolina is the deepest team in the country. Look for them to run guys in and out of the game especially to pressure Greg Paulus with the ball. Greg will need to flawless with the ball for the Blue Devils to have any shot. He will also have to do his best to stop dribble penetration by Ty Lawson. To me, he's the X factor. If Greg Paulus circa Virginia Tech shows up, Duke will get embarrassed in their building tonight. He shows aggressiveness, knocks down his shots, and creates for others, they have a fighters chance. I expect the game to be close, let's just hope they don't run out of steam before the game is over.
Whether you're religious or not, you better get on your knees and pray before this one. They need it.
Monday, February 5, 2007
4-Ever
The retirement of JJ's jersey really got overlooked by BRB yesterday because of the tough loss to FSU that ensued but I just want to give some props to my man JJ who we all miss very, very much right now especially with Duke struggling. If you haven't seen the retirement ceremony, watch it under my IA Account on GoDuke. You can see how touched he was to have his jersey retired and you can tell he misses Duke immensely. There isn't a classier and more genuine kid that ever came out of Duke and I just want to congratulate him on an amazing career. And for as much as he misses Duke, those feelings are immensely dwarfed by how much Duke fans miss him right now. Class act all around.
Sunday, February 4, 2007
FU FSU
Classless. Despicable. Uneducated. All synonyms for the Florida State Seminoles. I hate to come off like Ladanian Tomlinson but that's a classless team and it probably comes from their head coach. Inexplicably, Leonard Hamilton was able to push DeMarcus Nelson out of the way to argue a call. Sure, he got T'd up later on but for him to get away with that is mind boggling. Then, FSU pulls off the upset and they taunt the crowd, in particular JJ Redick. Real classy kids you recruited Leonard. I know a plant can get into Florida State but can you get some kids with class or are you just pulling them all straight out of the ghetto? Huh? Then, after you get your team to stop taunting the fans, you proceed to hold up your finger at the crowd as you walk off the court after you just yelled at your team for doing the same thing. BUT, all in all, FSU deserved to win this game. Any team that can withstand such improbable circumstances deserves a little credit despite how classless they are in doing it. Down 27-10 on JJ Redick day, most teams would've toppled like a house of cards but FSU had that game at Cameron last year in their mind where Alexander Johnson was wrongly disqualified from the game. If that doesn't happen last year, I guarantee FSU isn't as hungry. AND you know when Duke goes down to Clemson later on this year that Clemson will play extra inspired as well. Why? Because the refs got it wrong and they hold it against Duke.
As for the game, I didn't see the part where Duke went on the big run to start the game because the ever "important" St. John's/Cincy game ran late but to me, I don't care how old the team is, they could be 13 freakin years old, you cannot blow a 17 point lead at home on JJ Redick day, you just can't!!!!!This time you can't blame it on the offensive philosophy at the end of the game. They let up, they got sloppy, they committed unnecessary fouls, they failed to guard the 3-point shot, which has been the staple of the program in the K era. Josh played very careless in the 1st Half and it really hurt them. He played Thorton well in the 2nd Half but his careless fouls allowed FSU to crawl all the way back into the game. I could get on Paulus for the technical foul but I love the emotion and to be honest, that should've been a double technical because Douglas initiated the confrontation.
Bottom line. They had 3 golden opportunities to seize the game and they missed all three. Greg missed a layup even though he was definitely bumped on the way. Then, Josh missed a contested 6 footer, which he may have been fouled on but at that point unless its egregious, it's a play on and then DeMarcus missed a point blank tip in. On the replay, it looked like it got caught in his hand and that caused him to push it long. I'll tell you, Josh is Mr. Everything for this team but he can't finish around the basket if it isn't a dunk.
With these two losses, this team is no lock to make the NCAA Tournament now. They are 5-4 through the 1st Half of the "easy" part of their conference schedule. It doesn't get any easier for Duke as they have to play UNC, after they themselves lost on Saturday to NC State, so that is a tough game. The crowd is going to have to be the best crowd they've ever had to get Duke through that one. I had made a bet with my dad that Duke would somehow pull out the UNC game but that's when I thought Duke would be hungrier but now that UNC just suffered an embarrassing loss, they would like nothing more than to throw some more dirt on Duke's season.
So next up is UNC at Cameron on Wednesday night. This week is the season ladies and gentlemen. They at least need an inspired effort against Carolina and then they need to win a tough road game against Maryland on the 11th. If they win both then they will be in great shape. If they split, they have some more work to do but it's doable. If they lose both, mark my words, this team could be NIT bound, which is unfathomable considering the amount of talent on this team. We all know what Coach K is going to do now. You'll see a Marty Pocius or even a walk on in the beginning of the 1st Half against UNC to get the crowd and team into it. He always does it. He's always pushed the right buttons but can ripping down all the posters in the locker room and taking down all the banners work twice in a month? K is the ultimate motivator and it will take his best work to get them through this. I am not pissed or mad. I can't be at a team that exerts nothing but 100% each and every game but I'm worried about Duke here for now and the future. A dramatic win in either one of these two games could've pushed Patrick Patterson toward Durham but all of a sudden, Duke looks mortal and at this point right now, choosing Florida over Duke may be the smarter move. The education is much less but the team is a powerhouse, the girls are better looking, it's hotter. Duke is in trouble ladies and gentlemen with a Capital T! No picture, FSU doesn't deserve one on my blog you bunch of classless thugs. You'll be in the NCAA Tourney this year but enjoy it because once Thorton leaves, you'll go back to being the doormat of the ACC. As for UNC, all I can do is pray.
Prediction: I'm not making one.
As for the game, I didn't see the part where Duke went on the big run to start the game because the ever "important" St. John's/Cincy game ran late but to me, I don't care how old the team is, they could be 13 freakin years old, you cannot blow a 17 point lead at home on JJ Redick day, you just can't!!!!!This time you can't blame it on the offensive philosophy at the end of the game. They let up, they got sloppy, they committed unnecessary fouls, they failed to guard the 3-point shot, which has been the staple of the program in the K era. Josh played very careless in the 1st Half and it really hurt them. He played Thorton well in the 2nd Half but his careless fouls allowed FSU to crawl all the way back into the game. I could get on Paulus for the technical foul but I love the emotion and to be honest, that should've been a double technical because Douglas initiated the confrontation.
Bottom line. They had 3 golden opportunities to seize the game and they missed all three. Greg missed a layup even though he was definitely bumped on the way. Then, Josh missed a contested 6 footer, which he may have been fouled on but at that point unless its egregious, it's a play on and then DeMarcus missed a point blank tip in. On the replay, it looked like it got caught in his hand and that caused him to push it long. I'll tell you, Josh is Mr. Everything for this team but he can't finish around the basket if it isn't a dunk.
With these two losses, this team is no lock to make the NCAA Tournament now. They are 5-4 through the 1st Half of the "easy" part of their conference schedule. It doesn't get any easier for Duke as they have to play UNC, after they themselves lost on Saturday to NC State, so that is a tough game. The crowd is going to have to be the best crowd they've ever had to get Duke through that one. I had made a bet with my dad that Duke would somehow pull out the UNC game but that's when I thought Duke would be hungrier but now that UNC just suffered an embarrassing loss, they would like nothing more than to throw some more dirt on Duke's season.
So next up is UNC at Cameron on Wednesday night. This week is the season ladies and gentlemen. They at least need an inspired effort against Carolina and then they need to win a tough road game against Maryland on the 11th. If they win both then they will be in great shape. If they split, they have some more work to do but it's doable. If they lose both, mark my words, this team could be NIT bound, which is unfathomable considering the amount of talent on this team. We all know what Coach K is going to do now. You'll see a Marty Pocius or even a walk on in the beginning of the 1st Half against UNC to get the crowd and team into it. He always does it. He's always pushed the right buttons but can ripping down all the posters in the locker room and taking down all the banners work twice in a month? K is the ultimate motivator and it will take his best work to get them through this. I am not pissed or mad. I can't be at a team that exerts nothing but 100% each and every game but I'm worried about Duke here for now and the future. A dramatic win in either one of these two games could've pushed Patrick Patterson toward Durham but all of a sudden, Duke looks mortal and at this point right now, choosing Florida over Duke may be the smarter move. The education is much less but the team is a powerhouse, the girls are better looking, it's hotter. Duke is in trouble ladies and gentlemen with a Capital T! No picture, FSU doesn't deserve one on my blog you bunch of classless thugs. You'll be in the NCAA Tourney this year but enjoy it because once Thorton leaves, you'll go back to being the doormat of the ACC. As for UNC, all I can do is pray.
Prediction: I'm not making one.
Friday, February 2, 2007
Blue Devils Single-d Out
The Blue Devils lost a heart breaker last night as Virginia used a Sean Singletary teardrop with 1 second left in OT to pull off the upset in Charlottesville. In what seems like vintage Duke form, the Blue Devils blew an 8 point lead late in the 2nd Half and couldn't muster any sort of offense in OT to pull it out.
Let me make this clear, Coach K is my messiah and Duke is my religion. I also know that the philosophy employed at the end of the game last night is the same philosophy that has earned Coach K 695 wins at Duke, 10 trips to the Final 4, and 3 National Championships. BUT, this philosophy can backfire and it has many times during his regime. What philosophy? Having a comfortable lead, taking the air out of the ball to kill clock, and in essence limiting your potential for a good shot on offense. During the times of a Grant Hill and a Jason Williams, you could get away with this style because they were able to dribble penetrate at will to either draw fouls or kick it out for open shots at the end of the shot clock. I'm not so sure you can employ this strategy with this particular team. They don't have guards, outside of Gerald Henderson, who can penetrate at will because they lack athleticism. So, what winds up happening is that they start their offense with about 8 seconds to go in the shot clock, Paulus picks up his dribble, Sheyer or Nelson gets forced away from the basket and they wind up settling for a bad shot.
By no means am I attacking Coach K at all. I have benefited immensely from this philosophy since I can remember 7 of the 10 Final 4's and all 3 National Championships not to mention the countless ACC Regular Season and Tournament Titles. This man has been the greatest thing since sliced bread for Duke and the rest of College Basketball but I must admit, it is frustrating to see your team lose a game they had won.
As for the game, I haven't watched the whole thing. I caught the end of the 1st Half and obviously the 2nd Half and OT. From what I saw, I love how they played tonight. Their ball denial and playing of the passing lanes was masterful and their offense had its moments. I really like the fact that they bounced back after UVA came back to tie the game at 49-49 and they went on to make a 10-2 run, which seemingly looked like it would break UVA's back. Listen, what makes Paulus and Sheyer good is that they play smart and with fundamentals but one of their biggest limitations is athleticism and when Duke plays a backcourt of that athleticism and offensive talent, they will struggle. Singletary is one of the best PG's not only in the ACC but in the country and JR Reynolds is one of the most underrated players in America. Both of those guys exploited Duke's lack of quickness and used their strengths to win this game.
I really thought Duke was going to win the game when McRoberts had the one on one on Cain at the end of regulation but he failed to convert close to the basket and I also liked their chances when David McClure, my man crush, made a Battier-esque weak side block with under a minute left in OT but Duke got nothing going on the next possession and then Singletary did his thing. Despite that shot, they still had as good a look as you can ask for when Greg Paulus caught a great baseball pass from McRoberts and just missed a game-winning 3 pointer. For as great the Clemson win was, this one hurts equally as bad but I love the effort and I feel the execution down the stretch will come with time and experience.
Next up for Duke is Florida State at Cameron, which traditionally is a very tough game. However, Duke is traditionally excellent after a loss and with JJ getting his jersey retired, Cameron will be rocking. If Duke can neutralize Al Thorton, they will win comfortably. If they can't, then it will come down the stretch and they will need to execute a little better at the end than last night.
Prediction: Duke 76 FSU 67
Congratulations JJ!
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