What an up-and-down year it's been. After an 11-2 nonconference record against the one of the easiest schedules in the country, the Irish caught some national headlines with a 70-68 home win against West Virginia. That one really was a shocker. Though it foreshadowed the great stretch run to come, there were a lot of frustrating results on the way. ND went 3-7 over its next ten games and placed itself well off the bubble with a 6-8 conference record. Luke Harangody was lost to a knee injury during this stretch and all seemed to be lost.
Starting with a home win against Pittsburgh, Coach Brey's decision to hit the brakes really saw some good results. Our "Burn" offense led to six straight wins over a few very talented opponents. All of a sudden, the Irish played themselves off of the bubble and into a six-seed in the NCAA Tournament, a result that exceeded my expectations at the beginning of the year. Another frustrating first round exit ended the season on a sour note, however, as the team couldn't buy a late basket against Old Dominion.
Coaching- (C+) The team's struggles led to my calling for Coach Brey's head in the middle of the season. Though I still do not believe that this coaching staff is the right one to take the program to the next level, they impressed by completely changing the offensive philosophy for the most inspiring late season turnaround I've seen in awhile. However, making the Tournament was the expectation this year. Another first round exit doesn't cut it.
Backcourt-
Tory Jackson- (B) Not his best year statistically, but Tory showed off his leadership this season. The true heart and soul of the program, this season revolved around him. He will be greatly missed on the floor and in the locker room.
Ben Hansbrough- (B-) He impressed me this year. A more complete shooting guard than Kyle McAlarney, his style didn't always mesh with Jackson, but he provided an offensive threat from the shooting guard slot. On defense, he was one of our best on-ball defenders, but got lost frequently off-the-ball.
Jonathan Peoples- (D) A decent backup point guard who never should have sniffed a starting role. By the end of the year, his contributions were effectively nil.
Frontcourt-
Tim Abromaitis- (B+) Though he dropped off at the end, Abro had an excellent year. Until a skid over the last four games, he scored in double figures in all but three contests. Very impressive for a guy who redshirted last season and wasn't on the radar freshman year.
Carleton Scott (B) Growing from a guy who couldn't crack the starting lineup into our best rebounding threat with a pretty clutch stroke from three. He could be great next season.
Ty Nash (C+) Respectable season, but nothing flashy. Grew into a serviceable post threat, but was never able to put up big numbers. With Harangody out, it was Scott who carried the team on the glass.
Luke Harangody (C) One of the greatest players to ever put on a Notre Dame jersey, but used this season as an extended NBA tryout. His tendency to throw up bad three-pointers killed our offensive flow before his injury. Gets a decent grade due to his pure statistical greatness.
Showing posts with label NCAA Tournament. Show all posts
Showing posts with label NCAA Tournament. Show all posts
Friday, March 19, 2010
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Old Dominion 51, Notre Dame 50
Irish let a nine-point lead slip away and fall in the first round with some bad shot selection against a second-half Monarch zone.
ND attempted three-pointers on nine of its last eleven possessions, making just one of them. With no offensive flow to speak of, Coach Brey's team allowed Old Dominion to slowly take control of the contest and end the game on an 11-5 run over the last six minutes (Luke Harangody's buzzer-beating layup not included). For the game, Notre Dame shot 24% from beyond the arc while attempting twice as many threes as ODU. The biggest culprits were Abromaitis (who has struggled for the last couple of weeks) and Jackson.
Defensively, the Irish played well enough to win the game. Really, it was the offensive letdown the cost the team a chance for a Tournament run. Old Dominion's zone cut down on any points inside down the stretch while Ty Nash and Luke Harangody played a very ineffective 40 minutes between the two of them.
Tory Jackson ended his career with 5 points and 5 rebounds. He also pitched in 4 assists and 3 steals. Unfortunately, he couldn't hit the broadside of a barn with his jumper. 2-11 from the field, 1-7 from long range. Falling in love with the three pointer just killed any chance at a late run to close out the game.
Ben Hansbrough did shoot pretty well, making seven of his eleven attempts from the field. He finished with 17 points. Add in 6 rebounds and 3 assists for the senior shooting guard. I expect he will be back next season, but you don't know for sure.
Tim Abromaitis finished off a very good season on an extended cold streak. 0-5 on his three pointers today. He chipped in for 3 rebounds, but has never seemed to get comfortable in the "Burn" offense.
Carleton Scott played a bit of Jekyll and Hyde today. 14 points, 10 assists, made a couple big threes, but was awfully disappointing with the ball in his hands. He turned the ball over 5 times, almost all in the first half. On defense, he finished with a pair of blocks and a steal.
Ty Nash played just 18 minutes with foul trouble. 1 point, 3 rebounds.
Off the bench, Luke Harangody finally got in the scorebook late. He did help out a lot on the offensive glass, but was unable to find any flow inside against the zone. Jack Cooley played six minutes while Nash and Gody were on the bench. Peoples got in the game for 3 minutes and didn't see action after a really dumb attempt to save the ball under the opponent's basket. He should have learned not to do that in middle school.
Just like that, the season has come to an end. For much of the game, the Irish looked pretty strong, but simply could not overcome their offensive woes at the end.
I'll do some season recap stuff over the next couple of days. Thanks for the hard work, seniors. It was good to get back in the Tournament after last season, but ultimately another disappointing result will end the year.
ND attempted three-pointers on nine of its last eleven possessions, making just one of them. With no offensive flow to speak of, Coach Brey's team allowed Old Dominion to slowly take control of the contest and end the game on an 11-5 run over the last six minutes (Luke Harangody's buzzer-beating layup not included). For the game, Notre Dame shot 24% from beyond the arc while attempting twice as many threes as ODU. The biggest culprits were Abromaitis (who has struggled for the last couple of weeks) and Jackson.
Defensively, the Irish played well enough to win the game. Really, it was the offensive letdown the cost the team a chance for a Tournament run. Old Dominion's zone cut down on any points inside down the stretch while Ty Nash and Luke Harangody played a very ineffective 40 minutes between the two of them.
Tory Jackson ended his career with 5 points and 5 rebounds. He also pitched in 4 assists and 3 steals. Unfortunately, he couldn't hit the broadside of a barn with his jumper. 2-11 from the field, 1-7 from long range. Falling in love with the three pointer just killed any chance at a late run to close out the game.
Ben Hansbrough did shoot pretty well, making seven of his eleven attempts from the field. He finished with 17 points. Add in 6 rebounds and 3 assists for the senior shooting guard. I expect he will be back next season, but you don't know for sure.
Tim Abromaitis finished off a very good season on an extended cold streak. 0-5 on his three pointers today. He chipped in for 3 rebounds, but has never seemed to get comfortable in the "Burn" offense.
Carleton Scott played a bit of Jekyll and Hyde today. 14 points, 10 assists, made a couple big threes, but was awfully disappointing with the ball in his hands. He turned the ball over 5 times, almost all in the first half. On defense, he finished with a pair of blocks and a steal.
Ty Nash played just 18 minutes with foul trouble. 1 point, 3 rebounds.
Off the bench, Luke Harangody finally got in the scorebook late. He did help out a lot on the offensive glass, but was unable to find any flow inside against the zone. Jack Cooley played six minutes while Nash and Gody were on the bench. Peoples got in the game for 3 minutes and didn't see action after a really dumb attempt to save the ball under the opponent's basket. He should have learned not to do that in middle school.
Just like that, the season has come to an end. For much of the game, the Irish looked pretty strong, but simply could not overcome their offensive woes at the end.
I'll do some season recap stuff over the next couple of days. Thanks for the hard work, seniors. It was good to get back in the Tournament after last season, but ultimately another disappointing result will end the year.
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Start the Tourney
Arkansas-Pine Bluff/Winthrop grudgematch tonight. Winner takes on Duke.
Also, an announcement. After four years, I will be relinquishing control of the blog at the end of the season. It's been a great ride and I've enjoyed every minute of it, but time constraints have made me limit my posting this season. Next year, I will be out of the country for most of the Big East slate. While I would love to continue posting, I simply cannot continue to bring the same caliber of coverage that I hope you have come to expect from Black and Green.
My last post will be the Sunday after the Irish play their last game this season (if ND loses this weekend, I will finish up on March 21st). Until then, I promise to give you my best effort in the remaining posts and hope to continue going for as long as possible!
Also, an announcement. After four years, I will be relinquishing control of the blog at the end of the season. It's been a great ride and I've enjoyed every minute of it, but time constraints have made me limit my posting this season. Next year, I will be out of the country for most of the Big East slate. While I would love to continue posting, I simply cannot continue to bring the same caliber of coverage that I hope you have come to expect from Black and Green.
My last post will be the Sunday after the Irish play their last game this season (if ND loses this weekend, I will finish up on March 21st). Until then, I promise to give you my best effort in the remaining posts and hope to continue going for as long as possible!
Monday, March 15, 2010
Irish in the Tournament
It feels a lot better to be talking about a tough first-round matchup than another year in the NIT, especially considering how this season started.
ESPN's Bracketologist Joe Lunardi pegged the Irish as an 8-seed (as did the majority of people who predict this stuff). Thankfully, the Committee decided to look favorably on the Irish this year and grant them the same seed as three years ago... when ND went 24-7 and 11-5 in the Big East.
That year, a very talented Winthrop team picked up the first round upset. Notre Dame's opening matchup is no easier this season, as Old Dominion will present as close to an equal opponent as one can find on the opening weekend. However, the other 6/11 games are just as tight.
ODU is ranked 33rd by Ken Pomeroy, boasting a quality win over Georgetown and just one bad loss to George Mason on its way to the CAA title. The other 11-seeds, San Diego State (40th), Washington (29th), and and Minnesota (25th), all pose similar challenges to their first-round opponents. Indeed, each game is predicted to be a one-point contest by Pomeroy.
Should the Irish advance to the second round, a date with Baylor is most likely in store. The Bears are ranked 12th nationally, a better matchup than one of the top seeds we would have seen as the winner of an 8/9 game. However, Pitt (30th) and New Mexico (47th!) are 3-seeds just waiting to be upset.
ESPN's Bracketologist Joe Lunardi pegged the Irish as an 8-seed (as did the majority of people who predict this stuff). Thankfully, the Committee decided to look favorably on the Irish this year and grant them the same seed as three years ago... when ND went 24-7 and 11-5 in the Big East.
That year, a very talented Winthrop team picked up the first round upset. Notre Dame's opening matchup is no easier this season, as Old Dominion will present as close to an equal opponent as one can find on the opening weekend. However, the other 6/11 games are just as tight.
ODU is ranked 33rd by Ken Pomeroy, boasting a quality win over Georgetown and just one bad loss to George Mason on its way to the CAA title. The other 11-seeds, San Diego State (40th), Washington (29th), and and Minnesota (25th), all pose similar challenges to their first-round opponents. Indeed, each game is predicted to be a one-point contest by Pomeroy.
Should the Irish advance to the second round, a date with Baylor is most likely in store. The Bears are ranked 12th nationally, a better matchup than one of the top seeds we would have seen as the winner of an 8/9 game. However, Pitt (30th) and New Mexico (47th!) are 3-seeds just waiting to be upset.
Sunday, March 14, 2010
Selection Sunday
Irish land a 6 seed. Old Dominion is a very talented first round opponent, but it is hard not to see this as a best case scenario for a potential run. We avoid the 8/9 game and could take on a pretty beatable opponent in Baylor in the second round. I like it.
Monday, February 01, 2010
NCAA Tournament Expanding
The NCAA may be expanding its field to as many as 96 teams, perhaps as soon as next year. This has been on the table for a while and coaches love the idea, but like many fans I think this will be a disaster.
- It will water down the best postseason in sports. There are many reasons why people hate the BCS. One that is commonly overlooked is how it continues to support mind numbingly pointless endeavors such as the "R&L Carriers New Orleans Bowl." Middle Tennessee State and Southern Miss on national TV? No, thanks. Now imagine taking the next step and making a game like this one of many to decide the national championship.
- In a similar vein, bad coaches will keep their jobs as bad teams can now "boast" about making the Tournament. While going back to the NIT this year could put Mike Brey on the hot seat, making an expanded tourney could provide inept athletic directors with enough reason to keep underachieving coaches around.
- It will ruin the regular season. While the regular season is already overshadowed by what happens in March, it at least plays an important role in deciding who gets to compete for the big crown. The last few weeks before Selection Sunday are especially exciting as bubble teams fight for their playoff lives. Every game becomes must-win. Now those teams will be subpar programs in small conferences or really bad squads in the major leagues, who very few people will care about.
Friday, March 27, 2009
Elite Eight
The Big East has half the teams in, with Pitt/Nova guaranteed a spot in the Final Four. My money's on Louisville and/or UCONN joining them as well.
Also, a personal request to help Terrence with his survey. The topic is interesting (leaving early for the NBA) and you're helping out a guy who has contributed to this blog on multiple occasions with just a couple minutes of your time. Thanks a bunch in advance.
Also, a personal request to help Terrence with his survey. The topic is interesting (leaving early for the NBA) and you're helping out a guy who has contributed to this blog on multiple occasions with just a couple minutes of your time. Thanks a bunch in advance.
NCAA Tournament
Congrats to three Big East teams making the Elite Eight out of the four who punched tickets today. We could see as many as two more tomorrow (one, Louisville, should be a pretty solid lock).
Best conference, no question.
Best conference, no question.
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
NCAA Second Chance Sweepstakes
I usually try to put in a good word for anyone who takes the time to contact me via e-mail about other sites, promotions, etc. Today I received an e-mail about the SNY Second Chance Sweepstakes. It's a fun way to pick the rest of the NCAA Tournament games if your brackets are busted (like mine). If you win, some tickets to next year's BET might be on the way.
Looks like fun. Thanks to Jamie Cottle for the heads-up and a reminder to anyone with questions/comments/suggestions to feel free to e-mail me (click view my complete profile to the right).
Looks like fun. Thanks to Jamie Cottle for the heads-up and a reminder to anyone with questions/comments/suggestions to feel free to e-mail me (click view my complete profile to the right).
Sunday, March 22, 2009
First Weekend Conference Comparison
Sweet Sixteen-
Big East- 5
Big XII- 3
ACC- 2
Big Ten- 2
A-10- 1
Pac-10- 1
C-USA- 1
WCC- 1
Some nice games closed out the weekend. Say what you want about Lazar Hayward's step-over (dumb play, good call by the refs), Marquette blew its chances by allowing a three-point play with 48 seconds remaining. Michigan State survived by holding Southern Cal scoreless over the final 3:53. Louisville did not deserve to win, but still outlasted a game Siena squad.
As always, the first weekend of the NCAA Tournament lived up to expectations. With all but two of the top sixteen teams in the country still alive, next weekend should produce a few good contests, as well.
Big East- 5
Big XII- 3
ACC- 2
Big Ten- 2
A-10- 1
Pac-10- 1
C-USA- 1
WCC- 1
Some nice games closed out the weekend. Say what you want about Lazar Hayward's step-over (dumb play, good call by the refs), Marquette blew its chances by allowing a three-point play with 48 seconds remaining. Michigan State survived by holding Southern Cal scoreless over the final 3:53. Louisville did not deserve to win, but still outlasted a game Siena squad.
As always, the first weekend of the NCAA Tournament lived up to expectations. With all but two of the top sixteen teams in the country still alive, next weekend should produce a few good contests, as well.
Saturday, March 21, 2009
Second Round Games
Kind of a dead few days ahead of us. I can't really preview next Wednesday's contest until we have an opponent (that will be decided Monday night). Until then, a little open-ended discussion on the big-boy tournament is in order.
UCONN and Villanova both looked very good earlier today, the Huskies dominating Texas A&M and the Wildcats defeating UCLA. 'Nova has outscored its opponents by 43 in sixty minutes since going into halftime down ten against American on Thursday. Memphis cruised as well, keeping alive the possibility of a very good defensive Regional Final between the Tigers and Huskies.
UCONN and Villanova both looked very good earlier today, the Huskies dominating Texas A&M and the Wildcats defeating UCLA. 'Nova has outscored its opponents by 43 in sixty minutes since going into halftime down ten against American on Thursday. Memphis cruised as well, keeping alive the possibility of a very good defensive Regional Final between the Tigers and Huskies.
Friday, March 20, 2009
NCAA Tournament Comments
Jerel McNeal's got some class. He was tackled by Utah State's Pooh Williams in the closing seconds of their game today, an overaggressive foul by a guy just trying to save his team's season. I can think of a few players who would have started a fight after a foul like that. Instead McNeal slapped the Aggie on the back and helped him off the hardwood. 'Atta boy Jerel.
Nice wins for Siena and Dayton, two Catholic schools with very solid mid-major basketball teams. Unfortunately Dayton provided the coup de grace to my bracket, as I had the Mountaineers in my Elite Eight.
Nice wins for Siena and Dayton, two Catholic schools with very solid mid-major basketball teams. Unfortunately Dayton provided the coup de grace to my bracket, as I had the Mountaineers in my Elite Eight.
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Brackets
My Final Four:
Louisville
Connecticut
Pittsburgh
Gonzaga
Cards v. Zags in the final
Cards win
Upset: 12 Wisconsin over 5 Florida State
No real Cinderellas, but I have 6-seed West Virginia in the Elite Eight.
EDIT: Digger just picked both Pittsburgh and Xavier to make the Elite Eight on ESPN. That's not possible, buddy.
Louisville
Connecticut
Pittsburgh
Gonzaga
Cards v. Zags in the final
Cards win
Upset: 12 Wisconsin over 5 Florida State
No real Cinderellas, but I have 6-seed West Virginia in the Elite Eight.
EDIT: Digger just picked both Pittsburgh and Xavier to make the Elite Eight on ESPN. That's not possible, buddy.
Flawed Bracketology
Selection Sunday, one of the best sporting days of the year. Selection Sunday, the only reason Joe Lunardi makes more money than you do.
His Last Four In (Pomeroy Ranking):
Minnesota (45th)- The Big Ten is ridiculously overrated this year, but the Golden Gophers get a pass from me because they aren't Penn State. They beat Louisville on a neutral site, a good win even if it was at the beginning of the year. I don't get how 9-9 is clearly good enough in the Big Ten (not listed in the "Last Three In") when the Irish are well off the bubble at 8-10 in a much better conference and ranked eight spots higher by Pomeroy.
Maryland (54th)- 7-9 puts the Terrapins in but the Irish are well out at 8-10? Not that I think Notre Dame deserves to be in the Tournament (they don't), but this is the best example I know of how erratic basketball seeding is. Beat UNC and Miami at home, but was absolutely pounded by Georgetown on a neutral site. Ranked 28 places below the Hoyas by Pomeroy.
Creighton (68th)- Talking heads have to be careful talking about mid-majors because they don't want to offend anyone. However, there's a reason high-major teams take almost all of the at-large bids. They're better, it's not even close. With the exception of George Mason in 2006, a team that was actually seeded far too low at 11, mid-major schools just don't stack up against ACC and Big East programs. The Patriots' numbers ranked them 23rd that year. If there's anything I've come to learn about Ken Pomeroy's computer rankings, it's that they are the single best predictors of future success that I have found in college basketball. 23rd is good, 68th is not.
St. Mary's (60th)- Speaking of overrated small school teams, I give you the Gaels. Much is being made about how they lost Paddy Mills in the middle of the season and could have contended for a WCC title with him healthy. But who have they beaten? San Diego State? Utah State? Providence is decent, too, but no other wins over the top 100. The game of basketball is about winning, not trying really hard with your leader out.
Teams Who Should Be In-
Arizona (39th), San Diego State (34th), New Mexico (38th)- The Wildcats have fallen down the stretch, but they have some really big wins to their credit. Beating Gonzaga, Kansas, Washington, and UCLA as part of your nine top 100 wins is much better than St. Mary's joke of a resume. The Gaels did beat San Diego State head-to-head, but the difference between strengths of schedule is enormous. The Aztecs played a non-conference schedule ranked about 160 spots above Creaighton. If you're looking for a mid-major to support, why not one that's actually battle-hardened? New Mexico is another good option, having beaten Creighton by seven on the road. Their quality wins have come in conference, but BYU and Utah are ranked much higher than anybody the last two teams have defeated.
Team Who Should Be Really Really Far Out of the NCAA Tournament-
Penn State (78th)- 10-8 puts you on the bubble in the Big Ten, but Big East team Providence is sniffing a 3 or 4 seed in the NIT. In the words of Dick Vitale, "Are you kidding me?" Sure, they beat Purdue by three at home, but have since been clearly out of their element against the Boilermakers. Michigan State is a good win, same with two against Illinois, but 38-33 is an incredible load of filth. Their defense, one of the few remaining excuses for Big Ten apologists, is worse than Notre Dame's (117th).
His Last Four In (Pomeroy Ranking):
Minnesota (45th)- The Big Ten is ridiculously overrated this year, but the Golden Gophers get a pass from me because they aren't Penn State. They beat Louisville on a neutral site, a good win even if it was at the beginning of the year. I don't get how 9-9 is clearly good enough in the Big Ten (not listed in the "Last Three In") when the Irish are well off the bubble at 8-10 in a much better conference and ranked eight spots higher by Pomeroy.
Maryland (54th)- 7-9 puts the Terrapins in but the Irish are well out at 8-10? Not that I think Notre Dame deserves to be in the Tournament (they don't), but this is the best example I know of how erratic basketball seeding is. Beat UNC and Miami at home, but was absolutely pounded by Georgetown on a neutral site. Ranked 28 places below the Hoyas by Pomeroy.
Creighton (68th)- Talking heads have to be careful talking about mid-majors because they don't want to offend anyone. However, there's a reason high-major teams take almost all of the at-large bids. They're better, it's not even close. With the exception of George Mason in 2006, a team that was actually seeded far too low at 11, mid-major schools just don't stack up against ACC and Big East programs. The Patriots' numbers ranked them 23rd that year. If there's anything I've come to learn about Ken Pomeroy's computer rankings, it's that they are the single best predictors of future success that I have found in college basketball. 23rd is good, 68th is not.
St. Mary's (60th)- Speaking of overrated small school teams, I give you the Gaels. Much is being made about how they lost Paddy Mills in the middle of the season and could have contended for a WCC title with him healthy. But who have they beaten? San Diego State? Utah State? Providence is decent, too, but no other wins over the top 100. The game of basketball is about winning, not trying really hard with your leader out.
Teams Who Should Be In-
Arizona (39th), San Diego State (34th), New Mexico (38th)- The Wildcats have fallen down the stretch, but they have some really big wins to their credit. Beating Gonzaga, Kansas, Washington, and UCLA as part of your nine top 100 wins is much better than St. Mary's joke of a resume. The Gaels did beat San Diego State head-to-head, but the difference between strengths of schedule is enormous. The Aztecs played a non-conference schedule ranked about 160 spots above Creaighton. If you're looking for a mid-major to support, why not one that's actually battle-hardened? New Mexico is another good option, having beaten Creighton by seven on the road. Their quality wins have come in conference, but BYU and Utah are ranked much higher than anybody the last two teams have defeated.
Team Who Should Be Really Really Far Out of the NCAA Tournament-
Penn State (78th)- 10-8 puts you on the bubble in the Big Ten, but Big East team Providence is sniffing a 3 or 4 seed in the NIT. In the words of Dick Vitale, "Are you kidding me?" Sure, they beat Purdue by three at home, but have since been clearly out of their element against the Boilermakers. Michigan State is a good win, same with two against Illinois, but 38-33 is an incredible load of filth. Their defense, one of the few remaining excuses for Big Ten apologists, is worse than Notre Dame's (117th).
NIT Bracket Project
Congrats to Louisville. I love watching their full-court D. Nice to know they should be a 1 seed tomorrow.
Speaking of Bracketology, how about the NIT Bracket Project? (yes, there is one) Most other NIT projections have us as a 3 seed against a variety of opponents. We'll find out for sure tomorrow night.
As for the real tournament, the Bracket Project has three Big East teams on the top line. It would be cool to see, we'll find that out a little earlier tomorrow night.
EDIT: I knew about the CBI, but the CollegeInsider.com Tournament? Just give the bad teams an early break.
Speaking of Bracketology, how about the NIT Bracket Project? (yes, there is one) Most other NIT projections have us as a 3 seed against a variety of opponents. We'll find out for sure tomorrow night.
As for the real tournament, the Bracket Project has three Big East teams on the top line. It would be cool to see, we'll find that out a little earlier tomorrow night.
EDIT: I knew about the CBI, but the CollegeInsider.com Tournament? Just give the bad teams an early break.
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Pomeroy Bracketology
Conference Champions (*-Projected, Pomeroy Ranking in Perentheses)-
ACC- North Carolina (2)*
America East- Binghamton (160)*
Atlantic Sun- East Tennessee State (161)
Atlantic 10- Xavier (25)*
Big XII- Kansas (10)*
Big East- Louisvile (8)*
Big Sky- Weber St. (101)*
Big South- Radford (172)
Big Ten- Michigan St. (11)*
Big West- CSU Northridge (107)*
Colonial- Virginia Commonwealth (52)
Conference USA- Memphis (1)*
Horizon- Butler (40)*
Ivy- Cornell (100)
MAAC- Siena (65)
MAC- Bowling Green (151)*
MEAC- Morgan St. (153)*
Missouri Valley- Northern Iowa (84)
Mountain West- BYU (13)
Northeast- Robert Morris (124)*
Ohio Valley- Morehead State (166)
Pac 10- Washington (14)*
Patriot- American (115)*
SEC- LSU (43)*
Southern- Chattanooga (213)
Southland- Stephen F. Austin (96)*
Summit- North Dakota St. (68)*
Sunbelt- Western Kentucky (103)*
SWAC- Alabama St. (203)*
WAC- Utah St. (56)*
West Coast- Gonzaga (5)
Top 34 At-Large Teams (Based on Pomeroy Rankings)-
UCONN (3)
Pitt (4)
Duke (6)
UCLA (7)
West Virginia (9)
Missouri (12)
Arizona St. (15)
Wake Forest (16)
Oklahoma (17)
Clemson (18)
Purdue (19)
Villanova (20)
Syracuse (21)
Illinois (22)
Marquette (23)
Georgetown (24)
Utah (26)
Texas (27)
Wisconsin (28)
California (29)
Miami, Florida (30)
Oklahoma St. (31)
New Mexico (32)
USC (33)
Arizona (34)
Washington St. (35)
Notre Dame (36)
Florida St. (37)
Tennessee (38)
UAB (39)
Kansas St. (41)
San Diego St. (42)
Florida (44)
Texas A&M (45)
Looking at it this way, the Irish are deserving of a bid (and so is a 7-11 Georgetown team).
Major Conference Teams In:
ACC- 6
Big East- 9
Big Ten- 4
Big XII- 7
Pac 10- 7
SEC- 3
Mountain West- 4
ACC- North Carolina (2)*
America East- Binghamton (160)*
Atlantic Sun- East Tennessee State (161)
Atlantic 10- Xavier (25)*
Big XII- Kansas (10)*
Big East- Louisvile (8)*
Big Sky- Weber St. (101)*
Big South- Radford (172)
Big Ten- Michigan St. (11)*
Big West- CSU Northridge (107)*
Colonial- Virginia Commonwealth (52)
Conference USA- Memphis (1)*
Horizon- Butler (40)*
Ivy- Cornell (100)
MAAC- Siena (65)
MAC- Bowling Green (151)*
MEAC- Morgan St. (153)*
Missouri Valley- Northern Iowa (84)
Mountain West- BYU (13)
Northeast- Robert Morris (124)*
Ohio Valley- Morehead State (166)
Pac 10- Washington (14)*
Patriot- American (115)*
SEC- LSU (43)*
Southern- Chattanooga (213)
Southland- Stephen F. Austin (96)*
Summit- North Dakota St. (68)*
Sunbelt- Western Kentucky (103)*
SWAC- Alabama St. (203)*
WAC- Utah St. (56)*
West Coast- Gonzaga (5)
Top 34 At-Large Teams (Based on Pomeroy Rankings)-
UCONN (3)
Pitt (4)
Duke (6)
UCLA (7)
West Virginia (9)
Missouri (12)
Arizona St. (15)
Wake Forest (16)
Oklahoma (17)
Clemson (18)
Purdue (19)
Villanova (20)
Syracuse (21)
Illinois (22)
Marquette (23)
Georgetown (24)
Utah (26)
Texas (27)
Wisconsin (28)
California (29)
Miami, Florida (30)
Oklahoma St. (31)
New Mexico (32)
USC (33)
Arizona (34)
Washington St. (35)
Notre Dame (36)
Florida St. (37)
Tennessee (38)
UAB (39)
Kansas St. (41)
San Diego St. (42)
Florida (44)
Texas A&M (45)
Looking at it this way, the Irish are deserving of a bid (and so is a 7-11 Georgetown team).
Major Conference Teams In:
ACC- 6
Big East- 9
Big Ten- 4
Big XII- 7
Pac 10- 7
SEC- 3
Mountain West- 4
Sunday, March 23, 2008
Season in Review
November, December, January, February, March... it's been a long five months.
I predicted a 22-8 record for the Irish through the regular season. They would finish 24-6, a two game improvement. Losses to Baylor and Georgia Tech at the Paradise Jam started the season off roughly, but the team rebounded with a neutral site win over Kansas State. The rest of the cake nonconference schedule rolled by without incident.
In the Big East, the Irish took on an 18 game schedule for the first time and were very successful. A 14-4 record landed the Irish in a tie for second in the conference. After lopsided losses at Marquette and Georgetown, Notre Dame closed out the season 11-2. Another unbeaten year at home kept the winning streak alive for another summer.
In the Big East Tournament, another disappointing finish sent the Irish home after a quarterfinal loss to rival Marquette. Notre Dame picked up a 5 seed in the NCAAs and used solid defense to send first round opponent George Mason home early. Unfortunately, the Irish came up short of their Sweet 16 goal by losing badly to Washington State.
Grades-
Coaching Staff- B
This could have been an A two weeks ago. Mike Brey picked up his second straight Big East Coach of the Year award in the leading the Irish from a predicted bottom half finish to a tie for second in the league. However, another early exit from New York and a blowout loss to Washington State ended the year on a sad note. Overall, a great performance in the regular season, but marred by another disappointing end of the year.
Rob Kurz- B-
Brought leadership to a team that desperately needed it after the graduation of Colin Falls and Russell Carter. However, he seemed to disappear in some close games. Rebounding dipped a bit due to the emergence of Luke Harangody, but also turned the ball over more than in the past. Shooting percentages were down considerably as well. Made most of his impact off the court and as a leader on the floor.
Kyle McAlarney- B+
Welcome back. He was expected to make an impact as a three-point shooter, but no one knew how he would play side-by-side with Jackson in the backcourt. It turned out very well. In 36 minutes a game, he scored 15 and dished out 3.5 assists. A shooting percentage of 44% from beyond the arc placed second in the conference with the most threes made. Became a scorer from the oustide that was definitely needed. Had a few cold shooting nights that really hurt the team but should improve even more with a second year playing the 2.
Zach Hillesland- B
Came off the bench to the starting lineup halfway through the year. Added life in a squad that looked flat out of the gate far too often. Not a big stat guy, 6.2 PPG/5.3 RPG/2.5 APG, but does a lot of little things. Was the only attacking wing, a problem that should be remedied with Nash and Scott next season. Shot 51% from the floor, a product of his ability to get to the basket for layups. Biggest problem is lack of an outside game. If he can develop a consistent mid-range jumper with some threes, he will have more opportunities to get to the basket.
Tory Jackson- B
Played well with McAlarney in the backcourt. Proved that he deserved the starting PG role. Scoring got a little bump from last year, but rebounds and assists shot to new heights. 3.2 turnovers a game is a little high. Still not a great shooter, but got smarter from outside as the year wore on. Though he was 30% from three, his shot selection became more surgical as we went 12 for 27 (44%) from the end of January until the first round of the tournament. Still needs to cut down on mistakes and continue to develop his finishing ability when driving, but made some strong steps forwad.
Luke Harangody- A-
What do you say about this guy? Went from unknown to Player of the Year over the course of the season. Averaged 20 and 10 and showed the ability to knock down outside shots. 22 rebounds in the final game demonstrates his ability to control a contest even while being terrible offensively. Needs to play within himself next year. He got a little frustrated at times and forced shots. Also needs to stay on the block and limit his touches 7-10 feet from the basket. Overall, he is still not ready for the NBA (good for us) due to his size and still unpolished style. The thought of him improving even more is scary.
Ryan Ayers- B-
Took his benching with dignity and was able to contribue off the bench. Can be a dead-eye shooter when he looks for a shot. Became more confident as the year went by. Still needs to be able to create scoring opportunities and become more of a part of the offense on the floor. Can grow into a Colin Falls-type scorer with very good defensive skills.
Luke Zeller- C+
Some flashes of improvement, but still not where we was expected to be at this point. Will never be a force down low, but could provide meaningful minutes on the outside. Shot 39% from three and had a very good rebounding games down the stretch. Must continue to develop with the departure of Kurz due to his extended minutes next year.
Jonathan Peoples- C
He and Zeller didn't get a lot of chances to show their stuff this year with 12 minutes a game. Partly due to Coach Brey's strategy, but their ability certainly plays a factor. Peoples showed a little range with 36% beyond the arc, but didn't get enough looks per game to really prove himself as a scorer. Has been a steady hand at the wheel when Jackson needs a break, but not much more than that. Needs to improve his scoring ability or defense or will continue to be used sparingly.
Freshmen- INC
Coach Brey decided to go with an eight-man rotation this year. Should Nash and Abromaitis have been used more? Probably. Should they have been reshirted? No. Although the freshmen were very small parts of the lineup, they picked up valuble experience off the bench. Scott has the upside to be a five-year guy, but the others do not look like candidates for a fifth year, so the redshirt was probably well played. In the end, the lack of depth was not the cause of their final defeat, so Coach Brey's strategy worked well enough.
It will be interesting to see who of the four scholarship freshmen breaks from the pack to merit serious playing time (even a starting spot?) next year. Nash gives the team a playmaker that we were lacking. Scott is even more talented towards that end, when healthy. Abromaitis and Proffitt were less heralded recruits who could enter the rotation as well.
That should put a cap on this year. Later today or tomorrow I will look forward to the next season.
I predicted a 22-8 record for the Irish through the regular season. They would finish 24-6, a two game improvement. Losses to Baylor and Georgia Tech at the Paradise Jam started the season off roughly, but the team rebounded with a neutral site win over Kansas State. The rest of the cake nonconference schedule rolled by without incident.
In the Big East, the Irish took on an 18 game schedule for the first time and were very successful. A 14-4 record landed the Irish in a tie for second in the conference. After lopsided losses at Marquette and Georgetown, Notre Dame closed out the season 11-2. Another unbeaten year at home kept the winning streak alive for another summer.
In the Big East Tournament, another disappointing finish sent the Irish home after a quarterfinal loss to rival Marquette. Notre Dame picked up a 5 seed in the NCAAs and used solid defense to send first round opponent George Mason home early. Unfortunately, the Irish came up short of their Sweet 16 goal by losing badly to Washington State.
Grades-
Coaching Staff- B
This could have been an A two weeks ago. Mike Brey picked up his second straight Big East Coach of the Year award in the leading the Irish from a predicted bottom half finish to a tie for second in the league. However, another early exit from New York and a blowout loss to Washington State ended the year on a sad note. Overall, a great performance in the regular season, but marred by another disappointing end of the year.
Rob Kurz- B-
Brought leadership to a team that desperately needed it after the graduation of Colin Falls and Russell Carter. However, he seemed to disappear in some close games. Rebounding dipped a bit due to the emergence of Luke Harangody, but also turned the ball over more than in the past. Shooting percentages were down considerably as well. Made most of his impact off the court and as a leader on the floor.
Kyle McAlarney- B+
Welcome back. He was expected to make an impact as a three-point shooter, but no one knew how he would play side-by-side with Jackson in the backcourt. It turned out very well. In 36 minutes a game, he scored 15 and dished out 3.5 assists. A shooting percentage of 44% from beyond the arc placed second in the conference with the most threes made. Became a scorer from the oustide that was definitely needed. Had a few cold shooting nights that really hurt the team but should improve even more with a second year playing the 2.
Zach Hillesland- B
Came off the bench to the starting lineup halfway through the year. Added life in a squad that looked flat out of the gate far too often. Not a big stat guy, 6.2 PPG/5.3 RPG/2.5 APG, but does a lot of little things. Was the only attacking wing, a problem that should be remedied with Nash and Scott next season. Shot 51% from the floor, a product of his ability to get to the basket for layups. Biggest problem is lack of an outside game. If he can develop a consistent mid-range jumper with some threes, he will have more opportunities to get to the basket.
Tory Jackson- B
Played well with McAlarney in the backcourt. Proved that he deserved the starting PG role. Scoring got a little bump from last year, but rebounds and assists shot to new heights. 3.2 turnovers a game is a little high. Still not a great shooter, but got smarter from outside as the year wore on. Though he was 30% from three, his shot selection became more surgical as we went 12 for 27 (44%) from the end of January until the first round of the tournament. Still needs to cut down on mistakes and continue to develop his finishing ability when driving, but made some strong steps forwad.
Luke Harangody- A-
What do you say about this guy? Went from unknown to Player of the Year over the course of the season. Averaged 20 and 10 and showed the ability to knock down outside shots. 22 rebounds in the final game demonstrates his ability to control a contest even while being terrible offensively. Needs to play within himself next year. He got a little frustrated at times and forced shots. Also needs to stay on the block and limit his touches 7-10 feet from the basket. Overall, he is still not ready for the NBA (good for us) due to his size and still unpolished style. The thought of him improving even more is scary.
Ryan Ayers- B-
Took his benching with dignity and was able to contribue off the bench. Can be a dead-eye shooter when he looks for a shot. Became more confident as the year went by. Still needs to be able to create scoring opportunities and become more of a part of the offense on the floor. Can grow into a Colin Falls-type scorer with very good defensive skills.
Luke Zeller- C+
Some flashes of improvement, but still not where we was expected to be at this point. Will never be a force down low, but could provide meaningful minutes on the outside. Shot 39% from three and had a very good rebounding games down the stretch. Must continue to develop with the departure of Kurz due to his extended minutes next year.
Jonathan Peoples- C
He and Zeller didn't get a lot of chances to show their stuff this year with 12 minutes a game. Partly due to Coach Brey's strategy, but their ability certainly plays a factor. Peoples showed a little range with 36% beyond the arc, but didn't get enough looks per game to really prove himself as a scorer. Has been a steady hand at the wheel when Jackson needs a break, but not much more than that. Needs to improve his scoring ability or defense or will continue to be used sparingly.
Freshmen- INC
Coach Brey decided to go with an eight-man rotation this year. Should Nash and Abromaitis have been used more? Probably. Should they have been reshirted? No. Although the freshmen were very small parts of the lineup, they picked up valuble experience off the bench. Scott has the upside to be a five-year guy, but the others do not look like candidates for a fifth year, so the redshirt was probably well played. In the end, the lack of depth was not the cause of their final defeat, so Coach Brey's strategy worked well enough.
It will be interesting to see who of the four scholarship freshmen breaks from the pack to merit serious playing time (even a starting spot?) next year. Nash gives the team a playmaker that we were lacking. Scott is even more talented towards that end, when healthy. Abromaitis and Proffitt were less heralded recruits who could enter the rotation as well.
That should put a cap on this year. Later today or tomorrow I will look forward to the next season.
Friday, March 21, 2008
A Couple Upsets
My bracket was perfect yesterday, but has been destroyed by a few upsets today. Great to see Western Kentucky's win over Drake. Drake would have been a feel good story if they went deep, but had their season ended by a buzzer beating three in OT. One of the best games I have seen in the last few tournaments.
Missed San Diego beating UCONN today, but that looked like a great one as well. There goes one of my Final Four squads. Mark WKU and San Diego on your calendar for Sunday. Both teams playing for the pride of being the year's Cinderella.
EDIT: What is in the water in Tampa? San Diego and Western Kentucky both win, 13 and 12 seeds respectively, and 13 seed Siena is handling Vanderbilt 46-34 at the half. Feel free to bet the farm on Villanova tonight against Clemson. No way the favorite wins that game.
Missed San Diego beating UCONN today, but that looked like a great one as well. There goes one of my Final Four squads. Mark WKU and San Diego on your calendar for Sunday. Both teams playing for the pride of being the year's Cinderella.
EDIT: What is in the water in Tampa? San Diego and Western Kentucky both win, 13 and 12 seeds respectively, and 13 seed Siena is handling Vanderbilt 46-34 at the half. Feel free to bet the farm on Villanova tonight against Clemson. No way the favorite wins that game.
Breaking Down Last Night
First off, news of Carleton Scott breaking his fifth metatarsal broke during the day yesterday. He will be rehabbing for up to the next four months, but should be fine for the team's trip to Ireland in August. Tough break for the guy who could become a very important part of the lineup next year and in the future. He has been a little injury-prone in the past, so hopefully this is the only problem he will have to deal with at ND. His redshirt year has gone very well by all accounts, as the 6'7" wing has gained 25 pounds and now weighs a formidable 213. As long as he can keep that strength, Scott should be a very good player for this team contributing as early as next year.
Last night was probably the most nerveracking night I have ever experienced while watching the Irish play... way too much to lose with not a whole lot to gain. Even with the lead in double digits in the second half, my blood pressure was through the roof until the final buzzer. Today is much better. Very good win, easy if not dominant. Obviously, Washington State will be a tougher task. Just look at how they handled Winthrop in the second half last night.
But we're playing with the house's chips now. Win or lose, the season is still an overall success. Obviously, a Sweet 16 appearance would be the perfect way to keep the good feelings going.
Should be wearing the black jerseys tomorrow. That's a good thing for two reasons. One, the Irish will be reminded of the importance of the game. This isn't like playing a semi-home contest against an inferior CAA squad. Washington State deserves to wear their home whites and will be the favorite to win. Two, this should be the second leg of a business trip. We're on the road in somewhat hostile territory and need to keep the focus. What was most encouraging about yesterday's performance was that the Irish never looked like they wanted to get caught up in the festivities. It was just another game in what should be an everlengthening season. That mentality will be great for Saturday.
Plenty of positive notes from the game. Worst case scenario for a win would be an absolutely perfect performance against an easy team. The law of averages states that had everything gone perfectly, a below-average performance would be sure to follow. The Irish won while strengthening their weaknesses. They improved on defense and were able to walk the ball up the floor to win without getting into a shootout. Most teams don't have their second best defensive performance on March 20th.
As for the negatives, they were mostly our strengths not being in the spotlight. Kyle McAlarney overcame a poor shooting half to be solid overall for the game. He will need to be better than that Saturday, but experience says he can light up the scoreboard when needed. Luke Harangody was below the season average scoring, but still played very well. Needs to stay in the paint and not get so trigger happy from 10-15 feet out.
The role players really stepped up last night. Zach Hillesland and Ryan Ayers look like the best tandem small forward in the country. Hillesland with that athleticism and hustle grabs the rebounds and creates matchup problems on the wing. Ayers continues to gain confidence and can knock down any shot on the floor. Luke Zeller hit a three and grabbed a few boards. He continues to improve into a solid option off the bench. Rob Kurz, normally a solid double-double guy, was in foul trouble and played a below average game overall, but can usually be counted on when needed. Picked up his 1,000th point as well, so good for him.
Game is at 6:40 Eastern tomorrow. Looking forward to that one more than I was for last night. The Irish have the talent needed to win, but will be in for a tough fight. Win, and the program takes a huge step forward. Even a close loss would close out a year that has been a strong improvement from last season.
However, we all want a shot at the #1 team in the nation. Let's get that W and take on Carolina in Charlotte.
Last night was probably the most nerveracking night I have ever experienced while watching the Irish play... way too much to lose with not a whole lot to gain. Even with the lead in double digits in the second half, my blood pressure was through the roof until the final buzzer. Today is much better. Very good win, easy if not dominant. Obviously, Washington State will be a tougher task. Just look at how they handled Winthrop in the second half last night.
But we're playing with the house's chips now. Win or lose, the season is still an overall success. Obviously, a Sweet 16 appearance would be the perfect way to keep the good feelings going.
Should be wearing the black jerseys tomorrow. That's a good thing for two reasons. One, the Irish will be reminded of the importance of the game. This isn't like playing a semi-home contest against an inferior CAA squad. Washington State deserves to wear their home whites and will be the favorite to win. Two, this should be the second leg of a business trip. We're on the road in somewhat hostile territory and need to keep the focus. What was most encouraging about yesterday's performance was that the Irish never looked like they wanted to get caught up in the festivities. It was just another game in what should be an everlengthening season. That mentality will be great for Saturday.
Plenty of positive notes from the game. Worst case scenario for a win would be an absolutely perfect performance against an easy team. The law of averages states that had everything gone perfectly, a below-average performance would be sure to follow. The Irish won while strengthening their weaknesses. They improved on defense and were able to walk the ball up the floor to win without getting into a shootout. Most teams don't have their second best defensive performance on March 20th.
As for the negatives, they were mostly our strengths not being in the spotlight. Kyle McAlarney overcame a poor shooting half to be solid overall for the game. He will need to be better than that Saturday, but experience says he can light up the scoreboard when needed. Luke Harangody was below the season average scoring, but still played very well. Needs to stay in the paint and not get so trigger happy from 10-15 feet out.
The role players really stepped up last night. Zach Hillesland and Ryan Ayers look like the best tandem small forward in the country. Hillesland with that athleticism and hustle grabs the rebounds and creates matchup problems on the wing. Ayers continues to gain confidence and can knock down any shot on the floor. Luke Zeller hit a three and grabbed a few boards. He continues to improve into a solid option off the bench. Rob Kurz, normally a solid double-double guy, was in foul trouble and played a below average game overall, but can usually be counted on when needed. Picked up his 1,000th point as well, so good for him.
Game is at 6:40 Eastern tomorrow. Looking forward to that one more than I was for last night. The Irish have the talent needed to win, but will be in for a tough fight. Win, and the program takes a huge step forward. Even a close loss would close out a year that has been a strong improvement from last season.
However, we all want a shot at the #1 team in the nation. Let's get that W and take on Carolina in Charlotte.
Thursday, March 20, 2008
Are You Ready?
First round for the Irish tips at 9:40 tonight.
As always, Bryan has you covered at his blog with a tournament preview. Check it out here.
HALFTIME UPDATE:
Irish started great but sputtered to the half and finish up 33-21. Great defense, but scoring was off down the stretch. Harangody needs to stay in the middle and get touches inside. No reason for him to be 3-8 for the half. The rest of the lineup is stepping up nicely in spite of lower scoring for both Bamm-Bamm and McAlarney.
As always, Bryan has you covered at his blog with a tournament preview. Check it out here.
HALFTIME UPDATE:
Irish started great but sputtered to the half and finish up 33-21. Great defense, but scoring was off down the stretch. Harangody needs to stay in the middle and get touches inside. No reason for him to be 3-8 for the half. The rest of the lineup is stepping up nicely in spite of lower scoring for both Bamm-Bamm and McAlarney.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
