Final - Mason 53, UNCW 41
-Never made the run in the second half. Credit to George Mason's defense slowing down what UNCW wanted to do inside.
-Too depressed to post any more for now. More later.
3:45 Mason 45, UNCW 37
-It hasn't been pretty. The Seahawks' offense hasn't been slowed down like this all season, but Mason's hasn't been much better today.
-T.J. got hit with his fourth foul a the 5 minute mark and has been on the bench since.
-UNCW's ball out of the media timeout. I have a guess Daniel Fountain may get a look from downtown.
5:52 Mason 44, UNCW 35
-Hendley, Tomko and T.J. back after this media timeout.
-Terrible officiating continues. They're letting both teams play on some possessions and calling touch fouls on others. Call it one way or another, please.
9:08 - Mason 40, UNCW 35
-Chipping away at the lead a little, and mostly with T.J., Chad and Todd on the bench. Then again, so is Will Thomas.
-Too much standing around on the perimeter. Still have to find a way to get Vlad the ball consistently down the stretch.
11:45 - Mason 38, UNCW 30
-UNCW still hasn't found a way to get the ball into the post. This isn't good.
-Shots just aren't falling for the Seahawks and Mason has done a better job of stopping T.J.'s penetration. UNCW desperately needs a stop out of this media timeout or the season could be slipping away.
-The spotty officiating continues. A few phantom foul calls on the Seahawks. This blog is slightly partial, but even some missed calls on the Mason end.
15:45 - Mason 31, UNCW 28
-Lids on the basket for the first few minutes of the half. Both teams have missed a few shots from point-blank range.
-Mason is doing a great job of denying Vlad the ball. He hasn't had a decent touch yet in the half. Something tells me that's going to change.
-Daniel Fountain hasn't gotten an open look since he buried a 3 in the first half. More of those would be helpful in breaking up the Patriots' defense and help Vlad get more touches.
-T.J. isn't interested in losing this game. He's on top of his game today, with 12 points so far.
Sunday, March 9, 2008
CAA Semifinals vs. George Mason, first half
Half, Mason 31, UNCW 25
-Not a bad half overall. A few different bounces and the score is the other way around.
-Mason is trying to use Louis Birdsong and Folarin Campbell in the post vs. Montez Downey. It's working out pretty well thus far, with a few easy baskets on nice interior passes.
-No points for Chad Tomko. He's got to be more aggressive for UNCW to win this game.
3:12 - Mason 29, UNCW 21
-Will Thomas just picked up his second foul, always a positive for the Seahawks. He hasn't played particularly well so far, but not particularly well for him is good for most players.
-Still having trouble getting the ball to Vlad. Chris Fleming has come off the bench for Mason to do a pretty nice job.
-Looks like it might be that kind of day for Mason's Dre Smith. He had a 10-for-10 from 3-point range performance earlier this season. He's struggled against UNCW, but his shot is money today.
-All due respect to the UNCW band, but George Mason's band brings it. Doc Nix is the man.
6:50 - Mason 22, UNCW 16
-Still plenty of standing around on the offensive end. Chad Tomko doesn't look as aggressive as he was in the two previous wins over Mason.
-T.J. is doing T.J. things and has 7 points. Mason fans aren't too fond of him.
11:24 - Mason 12, UNCW 9
-Offense isn't running very smoothly for the Seahawks. Mason is sitting back in a zone and UNCW can't get the ball into Vlad or Todd. Settled for a few 3s that weren't the greatest.
-T.J. Carter is the only player who has been able to get any penetration, making a few nice drives to the basket and drawing a couple of fouls.
15:40 - UNCW 5, Mason 2
-Neither team has come out of the gate especially sharp on the offensive end. A few bad passes and travel calls both ways.
- Todd Hendley has done a good job with his help defense on Will Thomas. The Seahawks are sending a double team every time the big man catches in the block, and it's done a good job in disrupting their offense.
- Tony Shaver just walked by and got a nice ovation from the small contingency of Tribe fans. Have a feeling a few more people might make the trip from Williamsburg tomorrow night.
-Not a bad half overall. A few different bounces and the score is the other way around.
-Mason is trying to use Louis Birdsong and Folarin Campbell in the post vs. Montez Downey. It's working out pretty well thus far, with a few easy baskets on nice interior passes.
-No points for Chad Tomko. He's got to be more aggressive for UNCW to win this game.
3:12 - Mason 29, UNCW 21
-Will Thomas just picked up his second foul, always a positive for the Seahawks. He hasn't played particularly well so far, but not particularly well for him is good for most players.
-Still having trouble getting the ball to Vlad. Chris Fleming has come off the bench for Mason to do a pretty nice job.
-Looks like it might be that kind of day for Mason's Dre Smith. He had a 10-for-10 from 3-point range performance earlier this season. He's struggled against UNCW, but his shot is money today.
-All due respect to the UNCW band, but George Mason's band brings it. Doc Nix is the man.
6:50 - Mason 22, UNCW 16
-Still plenty of standing around on the offensive end. Chad Tomko doesn't look as aggressive as he was in the two previous wins over Mason.
-T.J. is doing T.J. things and has 7 points. Mason fans aren't too fond of him.
11:24 - Mason 12, UNCW 9
-Offense isn't running very smoothly for the Seahawks. Mason is sitting back in a zone and UNCW can't get the ball into Vlad or Todd. Settled for a few 3s that weren't the greatest.
-T.J. Carter is the only player who has been able to get any penetration, making a few nice drives to the basket and drawing a couple of fouls.
15:40 - UNCW 5, Mason 2
-Neither team has come out of the gate especially sharp on the offensive end. A few bad passes and travel calls both ways.
- Todd Hendley has done a good job with his help defense on Will Thomas. The Seahawks are sending a double team every time the big man catches in the block, and it's done a good job in disrupting their offense.
- Tony Shaver just walked by and got a nice ovation from the small contingency of Tribe fans. Have a feeling a few more people might make the trip from Williamsburg tomorrow night.
Saturday, March 8, 2008
CAA Quarterfinals - Delaware, second half
Final- UNCW 82, Delaware 59
-Complete game, balanced effort. This was the same team that put a beating on Old Dominion last week and definitely not the team that lost to Vermont and VCU.
-As long as the Seahawks handle the pressure and knock down open shots / free throws, they can win this tournament.
-An impressive victory margin considering T.J. Carter played less than 20 minutes.
-As for tomorrow, let's hope for a Northeastern win. George Mason is a tougher matchup for the Seahawks. They're tournament experienced and its awfully tough to beat a team three times. Northeastern beat Mason this past Saturday.
4:13 UNCW 72, Delaware 56
-It hasn't always been pretty, but looks like the Seahawks are going to pull away and finish this one off. Sloppy play and free throws for the past few minutes.
6:07 UNCW 66, Delaware 54
-George Mason fans joined the Blue Hens in chanting 'air ball' after Todd Hendley's errant 3-pointer. They were quickly shut up by chants of 'Tee-Jay Carter, Tee-Jay Carter.' Looks like the Patriots have had their dose of teal for this season.
7:52 - UNCW 64, Delaware 48
-UNCW finally figured out how to beat the press, but not before T.J. picked up his fourth foul. Darion Jeralds and Tomko on the floor at the same time is working out pretty well.
10:05 - UNCW 57, Delaware 45
- Delaware's fullcourt trap is now slowing down UNCW, along with Tony Dawkins and Co. The foul count is now up to UNCW 10, Delaware 4. It's getting almost as ridiculous as things were in the Northeastern/JMU game last night.
-UNCW needs to go ahead and put this game away. Delaware would have no business being in this game late.
11:53- UNCW 57, Delaware 40
-The referee in question is Tony Dawkins, who has worked a couple of Seahawk games this year. According to BBState.com, an average of 34.57 to rank 737th of 892 refs. Currently working on a 9-3 UNCW foul advantage in the second half. He's doing what he can to get to 34.
15:10 - UNCW 52, Delaware 36
-Some terrible calls early in the second half, but that hasn't stopped UNCW from opening up the lead a little more. Nothing sticks out thus far, other than T.J. being back on the floor and doing T.J. things.
-Complete game, balanced effort. This was the same team that put a beating on Old Dominion last week and definitely not the team that lost to Vermont and VCU.
-As long as the Seahawks handle the pressure and knock down open shots / free throws, they can win this tournament.
-An impressive victory margin considering T.J. Carter played less than 20 minutes.
-As for tomorrow, let's hope for a Northeastern win. George Mason is a tougher matchup for the Seahawks. They're tournament experienced and its awfully tough to beat a team three times. Northeastern beat Mason this past Saturday.
4:13 UNCW 72, Delaware 56
-It hasn't always been pretty, but looks like the Seahawks are going to pull away and finish this one off. Sloppy play and free throws for the past few minutes.
6:07 UNCW 66, Delaware 54
-George Mason fans joined the Blue Hens in chanting 'air ball' after Todd Hendley's errant 3-pointer. They were quickly shut up by chants of 'Tee-Jay Carter, Tee-Jay Carter.' Looks like the Patriots have had their dose of teal for this season.
7:52 - UNCW 64, Delaware 48
-UNCW finally figured out how to beat the press, but not before T.J. picked up his fourth foul. Darion Jeralds and Tomko on the floor at the same time is working out pretty well.
10:05 - UNCW 57, Delaware 45
- Delaware's fullcourt trap is now slowing down UNCW, along with Tony Dawkins and Co. The foul count is now up to UNCW 10, Delaware 4. It's getting almost as ridiculous as things were in the Northeastern/JMU game last night.
-UNCW needs to go ahead and put this game away. Delaware would have no business being in this game late.
11:53- UNCW 57, Delaware 40
-The referee in question is Tony Dawkins, who has worked a couple of Seahawk games this year. According to BBState.com, an average of 34.57 to rank 737th of 892 refs. Currently working on a 9-3 UNCW foul advantage in the second half. He's doing what he can to get to 34.
15:10 - UNCW 52, Delaware 36
-Some terrible calls early in the second half, but that hasn't stopped UNCW from opening up the lead a little more. Nothing sticks out thus far, other than T.J. being back on the floor and doing T.J. things.
CAA Quarterfinals - Delaware 1st half
Half - UNCW 42, Delaware 30
-Some untimely questionable calls and no-calls gave Delaware a little hope going into the half.
-Somebody has to find a way to stop Herb Courtney, he's got 16 at the half. He's scoring from all over the floor. Probably best Lacy wasn't too aggressive on him, considering the way the game has been called thus far. There haven't been too many fouls called, but the ones that have haven't been the most clear-cut.
-Vlad is having his way in the post whenever he catches the ball. Jim Ledsome is listed at 6'9", 230 lbs. Vlad has him by at least 35 pounds and Ledsome hasn't been able to keep him from getting to the basket all night.
-Dominique Lacy with a big 10 points in the half. He's playing within himself and drilled a wide-open 3-pointer. If that shot falls for him a few more times and Delaware steps out on him, there could be a Sportscenter highlight in his future tonight.
3:31 UNCW 36, Delaware 21
-Welcome back, Daniel Fountain. No signs of the ankle injury or the slump he was in to close the season. He's got 11 points on 3-of-4 shooting, including two 3s. He got fouled on another and dropped all three free throws. He's also played well on the defensive end and made smart plays.
-A 15-point lead isn't bad for a team without its best player and one of the first guys off the bench. Everything is just clicking right now.
5:41 UNCW 31, Delaware 19
-Odd lineup on the floor - Kuljanin, Tomko, Lacy, Jeralds and Fountain. Led to a quick run and a couple of threes from Lacy and Fountain.
10:14 UNCW 19, Delaware 15
-Vlad just got called for a travel and from here, it looked like he pointed in the general direction of the ref and yelled out 'that guy hates me' a couple of times.
-Nice move by Dominique Lacy, then a foolish foul by Dominique Lacy. Such is the life of a freshman in March.
11:54 UNCW 14, Delaware 12
-T.J. Carter went to the bench around the 13 minute mark with two fouls, and Montez Downey just picked up his second as well. Not good two lose two perimeter defenders early against a team that relies so heavily on penetration.
-Herb Courtney is pretty solid. He's got 9 of the Hens' 12 points. UNCW fans may remember him from nailing the game winner in the last meeting.
-Daniel Fountain is moving alright and knocked down a trey after missing his first one.
15:34 - Tied 7-7
- Vlad Kuljanin picked up a chea offensive foul on a decent acting job from Jim Ledsome. Vlad dropping the shoulder a little didn't help, and neither did his new mohawk look.
Pregame: Plenty of teal in the building, not much blue and gold. A few round of the Sea-hawks chant already, and plenty more to come. Considering the trip, UNCW has to travel the best in the CAA.
-Some untimely questionable calls and no-calls gave Delaware a little hope going into the half.
-Somebody has to find a way to stop Herb Courtney, he's got 16 at the half. He's scoring from all over the floor. Probably best Lacy wasn't too aggressive on him, considering the way the game has been called thus far. There haven't been too many fouls called, but the ones that have haven't been the most clear-cut.
-Vlad is having his way in the post whenever he catches the ball. Jim Ledsome is listed at 6'9", 230 lbs. Vlad has him by at least 35 pounds and Ledsome hasn't been able to keep him from getting to the basket all night.
-Dominique Lacy with a big 10 points in the half. He's playing within himself and drilled a wide-open 3-pointer. If that shot falls for him a few more times and Delaware steps out on him, there could be a Sportscenter highlight in his future tonight.
3:31 UNCW 36, Delaware 21
-Welcome back, Daniel Fountain. No signs of the ankle injury or the slump he was in to close the season. He's got 11 points on 3-of-4 shooting, including two 3s. He got fouled on another and dropped all three free throws. He's also played well on the defensive end and made smart plays.
-A 15-point lead isn't bad for a team without its best player and one of the first guys off the bench. Everything is just clicking right now.
5:41 UNCW 31, Delaware 19
-Odd lineup on the floor - Kuljanin, Tomko, Lacy, Jeralds and Fountain. Led to a quick run and a couple of threes from Lacy and Fountain.
10:14 UNCW 19, Delaware 15
-Vlad just got called for a travel and from here, it looked like he pointed in the general direction of the ref and yelled out 'that guy hates me' a couple of times.
-Nice move by Dominique Lacy, then a foolish foul by Dominique Lacy. Such is the life of a freshman in March.
11:54 UNCW 14, Delaware 12
-T.J. Carter went to the bench around the 13 minute mark with two fouls, and Montez Downey just picked up his second as well. Not good two lose two perimeter defenders early against a team that relies so heavily on penetration.
-Herb Courtney is pretty solid. He's got 9 of the Hens' 12 points. UNCW fans may remember him from nailing the game winner in the last meeting.
-Daniel Fountain is moving alright and knocked down a trey after missing his first one.
15:34 - Tied 7-7
- Vlad Kuljanin picked up a chea offensive foul on a decent acting job from Jim Ledsome. Vlad dropping the shoulder a little didn't help, and neither did his new mohawk look.
Pregame: Plenty of teal in the building, not much blue and gold. A few round of the Sea-hawks chant already, and plenty more to come. Considering the trip, UNCW has to travel the best in the CAA.
Saturday, February 23, 2008
Vermont second half
Final Score Vermont 84-73
-Shots just weren't falling tonight, but this wasn't a bad loss in the end. It means absolutely nothing in the grand scheme of things, and Benny Moss said it's a good wakeup call to refocus the team.
-With the shots not falling, the zone sagged a bit and Vlad Kuljanin only got four field goal attempts. It doesn't matter if he's got a giant green sloth hanging from his back, Big V needs more attempts.
-Marqus Blakely = crazy good. Listed at 6-foot-5, does all his work in the post. 19 points, 19 rebounds tonight to follow his 30 point, 20 rebound effort in the past game.
1:35 Vermont 77-66
-Chad Tomko stole an inbounds pass with the Seahawks down by 7, but missed a field goal. On the other end T.J. got called for a totally phantom foul that resulted in two free throws. That was all she wrote.
3:10 Vermont 71-64
-Daniel Fountain dropped a 3-pointer, making him 1-for-7 from behind the arc for the game. Better late than never.
-Marqus Blakely on the line for a 1-and-1 when we return, where he's 3-for-8 thus far.
3:47 Vermont 71-61
-Seahawks took a couple of shots at cutting the lead down to four, but missed each time. Nothing is falling.
7:04 Vermont 66-53
-Vermont on the line for a free throw after the media timeout.
-Brian Mull points out that UNCW has turned the ball over on 5 of the past 7 possessions. Not good when you're behind. Not good anytime, really.
-Passes aren't too crisp and there's not much spacing.
-Vermont's veteran guards are going to make this one a tough comeback.
9:27 Vermont 64-51
-T.J. Carter's dunk looked like it was going to ignite a run, but Joey Accaoui's second consecutive 3-pointer silenced the Trask crowd.
-Vermont's Timothy McCrory just pulled a flop that even Tyler Hansbrough would be ashamed of.
11:08 Vermont 58-47
-Open shots just aren't falling for the Seahawks and they are for Vermont. Simple as that.
-UNCW is doing a better job of getting to the basket than in the first half, and fouls aren't being called like they were.
12:06 Vermont 56-47
-Lacy, Carter and Fountain back on the floor. Finally.
12:43 Vermont 53-47
-Dominique Lacy hasn't gotten on the court in the second half, with Downey and Sheets coming off the bench before him. Not sure if he's injured or what.
15:08 Vermont 49-46
-Only one foul during the first five minutes of the half. Yippee.
-Daniel Fountain isn't having a good night for the first time since the trip to William & Mary. He's 1-for-7 on mostly good looks.
Before the second half starts, be thankful that you're not a New Jersey Tech fan.
-Shots just weren't falling tonight, but this wasn't a bad loss in the end. It means absolutely nothing in the grand scheme of things, and Benny Moss said it's a good wakeup call to refocus the team.
-With the shots not falling, the zone sagged a bit and Vlad Kuljanin only got four field goal attempts. It doesn't matter if he's got a giant green sloth hanging from his back, Big V needs more attempts.
-Marqus Blakely = crazy good. Listed at 6-foot-5, does all his work in the post. 19 points, 19 rebounds tonight to follow his 30 point, 20 rebound effort in the past game.
1:35 Vermont 77-66
-Chad Tomko stole an inbounds pass with the Seahawks down by 7, but missed a field goal. On the other end T.J. got called for a totally phantom foul that resulted in two free throws. That was all she wrote.
3:10 Vermont 71-64
-Daniel Fountain dropped a 3-pointer, making him 1-for-7 from behind the arc for the game. Better late than never.
-Marqus Blakely on the line for a 1-and-1 when we return, where he's 3-for-8 thus far.
3:47 Vermont 71-61
-Seahawks took a couple of shots at cutting the lead down to four, but missed each time. Nothing is falling.
7:04 Vermont 66-53
-Vermont on the line for a free throw after the media timeout.
-Brian Mull points out that UNCW has turned the ball over on 5 of the past 7 possessions. Not good when you're behind. Not good anytime, really.
-Passes aren't too crisp and there's not much spacing.
-Vermont's veteran guards are going to make this one a tough comeback.
9:27 Vermont 64-51
-T.J. Carter's dunk looked like it was going to ignite a run, but Joey Accaoui's second consecutive 3-pointer silenced the Trask crowd.
-Vermont's Timothy McCrory just pulled a flop that even Tyler Hansbrough would be ashamed of.
11:08 Vermont 58-47
-Open shots just aren't falling for the Seahawks and they are for Vermont. Simple as that.
-UNCW is doing a better job of getting to the basket than in the first half, and fouls aren't being called like they were.
12:06 Vermont 56-47
-Lacy, Carter and Fountain back on the floor. Finally.
12:43 Vermont 53-47
-Dominique Lacy hasn't gotten on the court in the second half, with Downey and Sheets coming off the bench before him. Not sure if he's injured or what.
15:08 Vermont 49-46
-Only one foul during the first five minutes of the half. Yippee.
-Daniel Fountain isn't having a good night for the first time since the trip to William & Mary. He's 1-for-7 on mostly good looks.
Before the second half starts, be thankful that you're not a New Jersey Tech fan.
Vermont first half
Halftime, tied 38-38
-These America East refs must be having trouble adjusting to the warmer temperatures, with 20 fouls called a handful of terrible calls. Trask isn't pleased.
-Speaking of the warmer temperatures, about 50 Vermont fans made the trip down. It's currently 19 degrees back in sunny Burlington, Vt. I'd imagine 70 and sunny on Wrightstville didn't suck.
As for the basketball:
-It's been a T.J. Carter kinda day, he's got 11. That number should grow in the second half, as I'd imagine he'll get to the free throw line plenty with the way this one is being called.
-Dominique Lacy has been getting better every week, and today might be his breakout performance. He's got 7 points on 2-of-5 shooting in 15 minutes, with a couple of shots rimming out on him. He's gotten to the basket well and made good decisions, picking up only one foul while guarding Marqus Blakely for much of the first half. Blakely is physical under the basket, so staying out of foul trouble is a feat in itself.
-Chad Tomko has six points on 2-of-7 shooting, but he hasn't forced anything. He's played under control and gotten into passing lanes for a pair of nice steals. A big second half would be nice to keep pace with Hofstra's Charles Jenkins in the CAA Rookie of the Year race after Jenkins' 28 point, 10 rebound performance today against Iona.
I've made the drive a couple of times, and it's not a fun one. So props to them.
:36 UNCW 38-36
Two fouls each for Todd Hendley, Vlad Kuljanin and Montez Downey. We've had a four minute Jason Aycock sighting.
20 fouls have been called in total.
3:59 UNCW 34-31
The America East refs are doing their best to rob this game of any amount of flow, so here are a few random observations
-Already 16 fouls called
-Dominique Lacy is still playing well, probably getting a few minutes more than Benny had planned on due to foul troubles.
-Vermont's Joey Accaoui is a mini-Mike Vaccarro.
5:55 Tied 24-24
Vermont isn't shooting well (10-for-27) but they're killing UNCW on the boards. They've got 18 rebounds, with half of those coming on the offensive end to UNCW's 12.
Trouble could be ahead, with Hendley and Kuljanin both on the bench with two fouls.
11:28 UNCW 17-14
Five good minutes for Dominique Lacy so far, guarding Vermont's best player and hasn't picked up a foul. He hasn't gotten on the board yet offensively, but it seems like Benny is making a point to get him involved offensively tonight.
15:04 Vermont 12-10
Good looks so far for the Hawks, shots just haven't fallen yet. Looks like it's going to be a T.J. Carter day, Vermont doesn't have anyone who can come close to keeping up with him. Oh, and now Dominique Lacy is guarding Blakely. Crazy athleticism.
18:12 Vermont 7-5
Marqus Blakely is pretty athletic. He also rocks the fro-hawk, ala Al Harrington. Consider me a fan. As I wrote that, he threw down a nasty dunk.
I'll do my best tonight, but I may not be on top of my game. I'm riding shotgun on the Brian Mull express with a sidebar to write after the game, so I'm multitasking a bit. We'll see how things work out.
-These America East refs must be having trouble adjusting to the warmer temperatures, with 20 fouls called a handful of terrible calls. Trask isn't pleased.
-Speaking of the warmer temperatures, about 50 Vermont fans made the trip down. It's currently 19 degrees back in sunny Burlington, Vt. I'd imagine 70 and sunny on Wrightstville didn't suck.
As for the basketball:
-It's been a T.J. Carter kinda day, he's got 11. That number should grow in the second half, as I'd imagine he'll get to the free throw line plenty with the way this one is being called.
-Dominique Lacy has been getting better every week, and today might be his breakout performance. He's got 7 points on 2-of-5 shooting in 15 minutes, with a couple of shots rimming out on him. He's gotten to the basket well and made good decisions, picking up only one foul while guarding Marqus Blakely for much of the first half. Blakely is physical under the basket, so staying out of foul trouble is a feat in itself.
-Chad Tomko has six points on 2-of-7 shooting, but he hasn't forced anything. He's played under control and gotten into passing lanes for a pair of nice steals. A big second half would be nice to keep pace with Hofstra's Charles Jenkins in the CAA Rookie of the Year race after Jenkins' 28 point, 10 rebound performance today against Iona.
I've made the drive a couple of times, and it's not a fun one. So props to them.
:36 UNCW 38-36
Two fouls each for Todd Hendley, Vlad Kuljanin and Montez Downey. We've had a four minute Jason Aycock sighting.
20 fouls have been called in total.
3:59 UNCW 34-31
The America East refs are doing their best to rob this game of any amount of flow, so here are a few random observations
-Already 16 fouls called
-Dominique Lacy is still playing well, probably getting a few minutes more than Benny had planned on due to foul troubles.
-Vermont's Joey Accaoui is a mini-Mike Vaccarro.
5:55 Tied 24-24
Vermont isn't shooting well (10-for-27) but they're killing UNCW on the boards. They've got 18 rebounds, with half of those coming on the offensive end to UNCW's 12.
Trouble could be ahead, with Hendley and Kuljanin both on the bench with two fouls.
11:28 UNCW 17-14
Five good minutes for Dominique Lacy so far, guarding Vermont's best player and hasn't picked up a foul. He hasn't gotten on the board yet offensively, but it seems like Benny is making a point to get him involved offensively tonight.
15:04 Vermont 12-10
Good looks so far for the Hawks, shots just haven't fallen yet. Looks like it's going to be a T.J. Carter day, Vermont doesn't have anyone who can come close to keeping up with him. Oh, and now Dominique Lacy is guarding Blakely. Crazy athleticism.
18:12 Vermont 7-5
Marqus Blakely is pretty athletic. He also rocks the fro-hawk, ala Al Harrington. Consider me a fan. As I wrote that, he threw down a nasty dunk.
I'll do my best tonight, but I may not be on top of my game. I'm riding shotgun on the Brian Mull express with a sidebar to write after the game, so I'm multitasking a bit. We'll see how things work out.
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
Georgia State second half
Final score UNCW 77, Georgia State 72
-More problems with the press and another big lead blown. Things didn't go well in the beginning or end, but the middle was pretty darn good. Senior night is Saturday vs. Vermont, but that game doesn't mean too much other than getting in a rhythm before traveling to Richmond to take on first place VCU on Wednesday. Anthony Grant is going to feel pretty good about seeing Georgia State's press cause so much trouble for UNCW, as they like to push it the entire game.
The press definitely slowed down the Seahawks for most of the second half, where it helped them establish the pace early in the half.
- Todd Hendley is in the zone offensively, hitting perimeter shots as well as getting to the basket on cuts and posting up to hit turnaround jumpers. When he can hit shots from the perimeter, that opens up a whole new ballgame as his defender can't sag and clog up the middle.
-A complete game from T.J. Carter, as he led the Seahwaks with 21 points, 8 rebounds and 7 assists. Carter was 5-for-5 at the free throw line, and probably should have had a few more attempts. He got to the basket at will all night and got defenders off their feet.
-A solid night for the bench. Darion Jeralds had 4 points in a solid 15 minutes, playing great perimeter defense. Montez Downey got 3 points and 4 rebounds in 8 minutes and went 1-for-3 from 3-point range. He played within the offense and all three of his shots were good shots. Dominique Lacy had 4 points, 3 rebounds and 1 key block in 15 minutes. He continues to pick up plenty of fouls, but his presence in the paint altered plenty of shots tonight.
3:01 UNCW 71-63
-Todd Hendley is playing as confident as ever. After Saturday's 21 point performance at George Mason, he's stepped outside to make a few jumpers that he hasn't made as often this season. He's got 16 points on a 7 of 10 night from the field.
-Dominique Lacy is fulfilling his role perfectly. He just grabbed a couple of big offensive rebounds and came out of nowhere to block a Deven Dickerson shot that would have cut the lead to 5. A couple of months ago, he likely would have fouled him.
4:56 UNCW 68-62
-UNCW is screwing around on offense against the pressure and disinterested on defense, to put things gently. They've seen leads evaporate this year, and this would be the worst time.
9:56 UNCw 62-46
-Vlad just laid out for a loose ball. Trask approves. Not sure we would have seen that a couple of years back.
-Todd Hendley just laid a hard foul on Justin Billingslea. Trask gave the 'Feel the Teal' seal of approval. Billingslea did not, but later changed his mind and scoffed in Todd's general direction.
10:39 UNCW 62-46
-T.J. Carter 5 point burst. We should be used to these by now.
-Michael Litos predicted a close first half followed by a second half beating on CAA:LAMM. Well played, Michael. Well played.
12:55 UNCW 57-46
-Not much happened there, except for two terrible calls. Todd Hendley, on the floor, was called for a foul when a Georgia State player landed on top of him and fell over. On the other end, Montez Downey grabbed a rebounded and headed for the basket. Georgia State defender pulled a take-Downey and didn't get called for anything.
14:11 57-43
-According to the media seating list, there's an Orlando Magic scout in the house tonight. I'd imagine he's on hand to see a certain UNCW senior guard or center.
15:51 UNCW 50-39
-If the Seahawks can extend their 7-0 run for just a bit longer, that should be enough to break Georgia State. The Panthers average about 60 points per game, so they're not used to playing at this pace. It's starting to show with sloppy passing and bad shots from the Panthers.
-Meanwhile in Boston, Northeastern has cut VCU's lead to 39-34. Matthews Arena is a tough place to play for anyone in this league, and a VCU loss would make things awfully interesting down the stretch.
-More problems with the press and another big lead blown. Things didn't go well in the beginning or end, but the middle was pretty darn good. Senior night is Saturday vs. Vermont, but that game doesn't mean too much other than getting in a rhythm before traveling to Richmond to take on first place VCU on Wednesday. Anthony Grant is going to feel pretty good about seeing Georgia State's press cause so much trouble for UNCW, as they like to push it the entire game.
The press definitely slowed down the Seahawks for most of the second half, where it helped them establish the pace early in the half.
- Todd Hendley is in the zone offensively, hitting perimeter shots as well as getting to the basket on cuts and posting up to hit turnaround jumpers. When he can hit shots from the perimeter, that opens up a whole new ballgame as his defender can't sag and clog up the middle.
-A complete game from T.J. Carter, as he led the Seahwaks with 21 points, 8 rebounds and 7 assists. Carter was 5-for-5 at the free throw line, and probably should have had a few more attempts. He got to the basket at will all night and got defenders off their feet.
-A solid night for the bench. Darion Jeralds had 4 points in a solid 15 minutes, playing great perimeter defense. Montez Downey got 3 points and 4 rebounds in 8 minutes and went 1-for-3 from 3-point range. He played within the offense and all three of his shots were good shots. Dominique Lacy had 4 points, 3 rebounds and 1 key block in 15 minutes. He continues to pick up plenty of fouls, but his presence in the paint altered plenty of shots tonight.
3:01 UNCW 71-63
-Todd Hendley is playing as confident as ever. After Saturday's 21 point performance at George Mason, he's stepped outside to make a few jumpers that he hasn't made as often this season. He's got 16 points on a 7 of 10 night from the field.
-Dominique Lacy is fulfilling his role perfectly. He just grabbed a couple of big offensive rebounds and came out of nowhere to block a Deven Dickerson shot that would have cut the lead to 5. A couple of months ago, he likely would have fouled him.
4:56 UNCW 68-62
-UNCW is screwing around on offense against the pressure and disinterested on defense, to put things gently. They've seen leads evaporate this year, and this would be the worst time.
9:56 UNCw 62-46
-Vlad just laid out for a loose ball. Trask approves. Not sure we would have seen that a couple of years back.
-Todd Hendley just laid a hard foul on Justin Billingslea. Trask gave the 'Feel the Teal' seal of approval. Billingslea did not, but later changed his mind and scoffed in Todd's general direction.
10:39 UNCW 62-46
-T.J. Carter 5 point burst. We should be used to these by now.
-Michael Litos predicted a close first half followed by a second half beating on CAA:LAMM. Well played, Michael. Well played.
12:55 UNCW 57-46
-Not much happened there, except for two terrible calls. Todd Hendley, on the floor, was called for a foul when a Georgia State player landed on top of him and fell over. On the other end, Montez Downey grabbed a rebounded and headed for the basket. Georgia State defender pulled a take-Downey and didn't get called for anything.
14:11 57-43
-According to the media seating list, there's an Orlando Magic scout in the house tonight. I'd imagine he's on hand to see a certain UNCW senior guard or center.
15:51 UNCW 50-39
-If the Seahawks can extend their 7-0 run for just a bit longer, that should be enough to break Georgia State. The Panthers average about 60 points per game, so they're not used to playing at this pace. It's starting to show with sloppy passing and bad shots from the Panthers.
-Meanwhile in Boston, Northeastern has cut VCU's lead to 39-34. Matthews Arena is a tough place to play for anyone in this league, and a VCU loss would make things awfully interesting down the stretch.
Georgia State first half
End of first half UNCW 41-37
-UNCW shot 60 percent in the first half, but it didn't really seem like it. The offense bogged down at points and Chad Tomko hasn't been able to run it with the fluidity that he has in the past few weeks.
-Michael Moynihan, grandson of Lefty Driesell, got his second start of the season and dropped 9 points in the first half. Michael Perry didn't give the kid much of a shot last year, but he's worked his way into Rod Barnes' favor. After two points all of last year, he's got 42 in the past four and a half games. I figured Chad Tomko would take it to him, but it's been a good matchup so far.
-Georgia State has gotten all of the bounces on the offensive end, grabbing 11 offensive boards. UNCW hasn't been in terrible position on all of them, the ball is just coming off the rim funny.
-UNCW closed the half on an 8-2 run and pushed the pace a bit as Georgia State went into a fullcourt trap. Teams know they can get turnover the Seahawks on the press, but pressing is also the quickest way to let UNCW build a lead between Daniel Fountain threes in transition or T.J. Carter going to the basket. The Panthers are well aware of that now.
3:38 Georgia State 33-31
-Georgia State is winning the rebounding battle 15-12, including 9 offensive rebounds. This is a problem. Just seems like they're getting the right bounces and pushing the UNCW big men too far under the basket to board.
-Daniel Fountain just ht his first three and there should be more to follow, as Georgia State has stuck in their 2-3.
7:54 Georgia State 24-23
-The Seahawks have yet to solve Georgia State's trapping 2-3 zone, settling for a few 3-pointers and trying to force a few passes. They have done a good job of finding an open man on the perimeter on kicks, but haven't converted yet.
-Georgia State has 6-foot-6, 195 pound sophomore Ousman Krubally in the center of their zone. Something tells me that he's about to get a strong dose of Vlad.
12:38 Georgia State 15-14
-UNCW came out of the last media timeout with a lot more movement, with Vlad finding a cutting Todd Hendley for the basket. On the next possession, they went right back to Vlad for a bucket underneath.
-Daniel Fountain has gotten a few kick out passes, but hasn't converted. If he knocks down a few, the Georgia State Zone won't last much longer.
15:36 Georgia State 8 -4
-Chad Tomko came out a little bit excited and tried to force a few passes and picked up an early foul, heading to the bench early.
-Georgia State came out in a 2-3 zone and trapped a few times on the wings. The UNCW offense hasn't found a rhythm hasn't reacted yet and is standing around the perimeter for the most part. T.J. Carter made a nice cut to the basket and took a pass from Vlad Kuljanin to the hole, but didn't get the basket or the foul call.
-UNCW shot 60 percent in the first half, but it didn't really seem like it. The offense bogged down at points and Chad Tomko hasn't been able to run it with the fluidity that he has in the past few weeks.
-Michael Moynihan, grandson of Lefty Driesell, got his second start of the season and dropped 9 points in the first half. Michael Perry didn't give the kid much of a shot last year, but he's worked his way into Rod Barnes' favor. After two points all of last year, he's got 42 in the past four and a half games. I figured Chad Tomko would take it to him, but it's been a good matchup so far.
-Georgia State has gotten all of the bounces on the offensive end, grabbing 11 offensive boards. UNCW hasn't been in terrible position on all of them, the ball is just coming off the rim funny.
-UNCW closed the half on an 8-2 run and pushed the pace a bit as Georgia State went into a fullcourt trap. Teams know they can get turnover the Seahawks on the press, but pressing is also the quickest way to let UNCW build a lead between Daniel Fountain threes in transition or T.J. Carter going to the basket. The Panthers are well aware of that now.
3:38 Georgia State 33-31
-Georgia State is winning the rebounding battle 15-12, including 9 offensive rebounds. This is a problem. Just seems like they're getting the right bounces and pushing the UNCW big men too far under the basket to board.
-Daniel Fountain just ht his first three and there should be more to follow, as Georgia State has stuck in their 2-3.
7:54 Georgia State 24-23
-The Seahawks have yet to solve Georgia State's trapping 2-3 zone, settling for a few 3-pointers and trying to force a few passes. They have done a good job of finding an open man on the perimeter on kicks, but haven't converted yet.
-Georgia State has 6-foot-6, 195 pound sophomore Ousman Krubally in the center of their zone. Something tells me that he's about to get a strong dose of Vlad.
12:38 Georgia State 15-14
-UNCW came out of the last media timeout with a lot more movement, with Vlad finding a cutting Todd Hendley for the basket. On the next possession, they went right back to Vlad for a bucket underneath.
-Daniel Fountain has gotten a few kick out passes, but hasn't converted. If he knocks down a few, the Georgia State Zone won't last much longer.
15:36 Georgia State 8 -4
-Chad Tomko came out a little bit excited and tried to force a few passes and picked up an early foul, heading to the bench early.
-Georgia State came out in a 2-3 zone and trapped a few times on the wings. The UNCW offense hasn't found a rhythm hasn't reacted yet and is standing around the perimeter for the most part. T.J. Carter made a nice cut to the basket and took a pass from Vlad Kuljanin to the hole, but didn't get the basket or the foul call.
Georgia State pregame
Georgia State (7-18, 4-11 CAA) travels to Trask Coliseum tonight to take on UNCW (17-10, 10-5). UNCW comes in having won 8 of the past 10, with both losses coming in the final minute by a combined 10 points. The most impressive of those victories came last week, in an emotional win at George Mason, a place the Seahawks hadn't won since 2001.
The Panthers are coming off an upset victory of Northeastern, a win that ended a four game losing streak. Don't let the Panthers' record fool you -- they're a dangerous team, capable of big upsets. Along with Northeastern, they also beat George Mason in Atlanta. They also went on the road to beat Delaware.
UNCW's first victory over Georgia State was a turning point in the season for the Seahawks. Having lost four of six, and with a promising season on the verge of collapse, UNCW rallied for a 68-61 win in Atlanta. It proved that the Seahawks could come from behind at the half, as well as play well towards the end of a close game.
Stats, from ESPN.com PPG RPG APG
The Panthers are coming off an upset victory of Northeastern, a win that ended a four game losing streak. Don't let the Panthers' record fool you -- they're a dangerous team, capable of big upsets. Along with Northeastern, they also beat George Mason in Atlanta. They also went on the road to beat Delaware.
UNCW's first victory over Georgia State was a turning point in the season for the Seahawks. Having lost four of six, and with a promising season on the verge of collapse, UNCW rallied for a 68-61 win in Atlanta. It proved that the Seahawks could come from behind at the half, as well as play well towards the end of a close game.
Stats, from ESPN.com PPG RPG APG
| Leonard Mendez | G | 16.5 | 3.3 | 1.0 |
| Trae Goldston | G | 8.7 | 1.4 | 1.3 |
| Rashad Chase | F | 7.7 | 7.9 | 1.0 |
| Justin Billingslea | F | 6.5 | 3.8 | 1.2 |
| Deven Dickerson | C | 4.2 | 3.4 | 0.1 |
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
Second Half
:21 - After not getting in during last week's win over James Madison, Jason Aycock got in for the final 21 seconds of this one, to see his third action of the season. Final 77-64 UNCW.
3:03 - 71-57 UNCW
Another Dominique Lacy sighting. Clear path to basket + Lacy with ball = Lacy trying to tear the rim off. A nice tomahawk throwdown, jumping over a W&M player who had been knocked down just under the basket.
3:54 - 68-55 UNCW
Daniel Fountain got open a couple of times, much to the dismay of the Tribe coaching staff. Fountain has 21.
6:30 - 61-50 UNCW
Danny Sumner just took one to the basket and drew a block on Chad Tomko, his fourth personal. Awfully close call from my view, two feet from Tony Shaver (and his great moustache).
The last few minutes have been the ugliest stretch of the game with a lot of physical contact. Neither coach has been particularly happy with their team's execution.
11:35 - 58-43 UNCW
Daniel Fountain traded 3-pointers with W&M's Peter Stein, who just picked up his fourth foul. Losing your primary post defender would seem big for most teams, but I'd imagine the Tribe will just throw another big out there that can take (and make) 3's. Their offense really is a thing of beauty.
13:17 - 55-40 UNCW
Benny Moss urged his team to pick up the pace and they did just that. Dominique Lacy made a 3-pointer, a nice save that led to a Daniel Fountain layup and a drive to the basket which ended with a layup rimming out. Lacy has been showing signs of becoming a great player and just proved again why he could be so deadly. If his he can knock down jumpers consistently, he's going to be one of the toughest matchups in the CAA for the next few years.
15:50 - 45-37 UNCW
The Seahawks started the second half the same way they started the first -- pounding the ball into the post. W&M elected not to double Vlad Kuljanin on either of his two post touches and both ended with baskets for the big man. He also put back an offensive board and now has 8 points and 14 rebounds.
3:03 - 71-57 UNCW
Another Dominique Lacy sighting. Clear path to basket + Lacy with ball = Lacy trying to tear the rim off. A nice tomahawk throwdown, jumping over a W&M player who had been knocked down just under the basket.
3:54 - 68-55 UNCW
Daniel Fountain got open a couple of times, much to the dismay of the Tribe coaching staff. Fountain has 21.
6:30 - 61-50 UNCW
Danny Sumner just took one to the basket and drew a block on Chad Tomko, his fourth personal. Awfully close call from my view, two feet from Tony Shaver (and his great moustache).
The last few minutes have been the ugliest stretch of the game with a lot of physical contact. Neither coach has been particularly happy with their team's execution.
11:35 - 58-43 UNCW
Daniel Fountain traded 3-pointers with W&M's Peter Stein, who just picked up his fourth foul. Losing your primary post defender would seem big for most teams, but I'd imagine the Tribe will just throw another big out there that can take (and make) 3's. Their offense really is a thing of beauty.
13:17 - 55-40 UNCW
Benny Moss urged his team to pick up the pace and they did just that. Dominique Lacy made a 3-pointer, a nice save that led to a Daniel Fountain layup and a drive to the basket which ended with a layup rimming out. Lacy has been showing signs of becoming a great player and just proved again why he could be so deadly. If his he can knock down jumpers consistently, he's going to be one of the toughest matchups in the CAA for the next few years.
15:50 - 45-37 UNCW
The Seahawks started the second half the same way they started the first -- pounding the ball into the post. W&M elected not to double Vlad Kuljanin on either of his two post touches and both ended with baskets for the big man. He also put back an offensive board and now has 8 points and 14 rebounds.
First Half
Halftime - Chris Darnell's 3-pointer at the 47-second mark broke the Seahawks' 9-0 run, but still, not a bad end to the half to make the score 37-28.
The Good
-- Kuljanin may only have two points, but he's having his way in the post, already grabbing 12 rebounds - just one less than the entire William & Mary squad.
-- Unfortunately, I had a lot of trouble seeing what's going on directly under the basket because Tony Shaver has been standing directly in front of me for most of the game.
-- William & Mary is shooting an uncharacteristic 4 for 19 from the 3-point line. No surprise that they've taken 19, but they've had a few go in and out and have missed a few open looks. UNCW's perimeter defense hasn't been terrible, but you can't really expect Vlad to step out to guard a 3-pointer from the 6-foot-9 Chris Darnell, or the Tribe is going to run something to the basket. Their offense is reliant on big men that can pass well. Blaine Taylor called it a "kind of a hybrid Princeton deal" in an interview with the Williamsburg Daily Press.
-- Chad Tomko is continuing his solid play at the point and hasn't forced anything. He's initiated the offense and taken and made shots when he's been left open. His pullup on the break was a thing of beauty.
The Bad
-- UNCW only got two turnovers from W&M in the first half.
-- Can't expect W&M to shoot such a poor percentage fron 3-point range in the second half. Need to find a way to make the Tribe step in and take some mid-range shots.
1:20 - The Seahawks are having no trouble rebounding the ball, holding a 22-13 advantage, with seven on the offensive end. 35-25 UNCW.
2:48- W&M has already attempted 17 3-pointers, so it's possible they could get to 40. They attempted 39 last time these two teams met. 33-25 UNCW
7:54 - The paced picked up a bit between during that span, but both teams got out of control at times. One positive was Chad Tomko's pullup jumper on the fast break from the elbow at the 9:32 mark. That's the kind of shot that makes a point guard unstoppable in transition.
11:59 - William & Mary went to 1-3-1 halfcourt trap and dropped into a 2-3 zone, and quickly paid for it as Daniel Fountain nailed back-to-back 3-pointers. Kisielius was at the top of the 1-3-1, helping restrict some of the cross-court passes for open shots.
15:05 -The Tribe's primary post defender Peter Stein picked up two quick fouls as the Seahawks have made a point to hammer the ball into the post and play a physical game. It should come as no surprise that William & Mary has already attempted five 3-pointers.
7 p.m. - William & Mary senior forward Laimis Kisielius is in the starting lineup despite the fact that he's nursing a toe injury.
6:59 p.m. - For a key game in the CAA standings, the students sure didn't seem to take notice. About three of the six sections of bleachers in the student section are full, with students all on their feet. It's a Wednesday night game against a team that isn't traditionally strong, but you'd have to expect a better turnout than this.
The Good
-- Kuljanin may only have two points, but he's having his way in the post, already grabbing 12 rebounds - just one less than the entire William & Mary squad.
-- Unfortunately, I had a lot of trouble seeing what's going on directly under the basket because Tony Shaver has been standing directly in front of me for most of the game.
-- William & Mary is shooting an uncharacteristic 4 for 19 from the 3-point line. No surprise that they've taken 19, but they've had a few go in and out and have missed a few open looks. UNCW's perimeter defense hasn't been terrible, but you can't really expect Vlad to step out to guard a 3-pointer from the 6-foot-9 Chris Darnell, or the Tribe is going to run something to the basket. Their offense is reliant on big men that can pass well. Blaine Taylor called it a "kind of a hybrid Princeton deal" in an interview with the Williamsburg Daily Press.
-- Chad Tomko is continuing his solid play at the point and hasn't forced anything. He's initiated the offense and taken and made shots when he's been left open. His pullup on the break was a thing of beauty.
The Bad
-- UNCW only got two turnovers from W&M in the first half.
-- Can't expect W&M to shoot such a poor percentage fron 3-point range in the second half. Need to find a way to make the Tribe step in and take some mid-range shots.
1:20 - The Seahawks are having no trouble rebounding the ball, holding a 22-13 advantage, with seven on the offensive end. 35-25 UNCW.
2:48- W&M has already attempted 17 3-pointers, so it's possible they could get to 40. They attempted 39 last time these two teams met. 33-25 UNCW
7:54 - The paced picked up a bit between during that span, but both teams got out of control at times. One positive was Chad Tomko's pullup jumper on the fast break from the elbow at the 9:32 mark. That's the kind of shot that makes a point guard unstoppable in transition.
11:59 - William & Mary went to 1-3-1 halfcourt trap and dropped into a 2-3 zone, and quickly paid for it as Daniel Fountain nailed back-to-back 3-pointers. Kisielius was at the top of the 1-3-1, helping restrict some of the cross-court passes for open shots.
15:05 -The Tribe's primary post defender Peter Stein picked up two quick fouls as the Seahawks have made a point to hammer the ball into the post and play a physical game. It should come as no surprise that William & Mary has already attempted five 3-pointers.
7 p.m. - William & Mary senior forward Laimis Kisielius is in the starting lineup despite the fact that he's nursing a toe injury.
6:59 p.m. - For a key game in the CAA standings, the students sure didn't seem to take notice. About three of the six sections of bleachers in the student section are full, with students all on their feet. It's a Wednesday night game against a team that isn't traditionally strong, but you'd have to expect a better turnout than this.
Welcome to Hawks Hoops Live
The Seahawk will be blogging live from Trask Coliseum as the UNCW men's basketball team takes on William & Mary, along with all of the remaining home games.
The Seahawks (15-10, 8-5 Colonial) will be looking to avenge a loss to William & Mary two weeks ago, and solidify their spot in the top four of the CAA standings.
Check out UNCWSports.com for Live Stats
The Seahawks (15-10, 8-5 Colonial) will be looking to avenge a loss to William & Mary two weeks ago, and solidify their spot in the top four of the CAA standings.
Check out UNCWSports.com for Live Stats
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