It's time once again. My FAVORITE sport is back. Midnight Madness practices can start as early as 7:00 PM this Friday (yes, I know that's not midnight). Preseason tournament games start in November. Here's a couple of primers. First, a preseason top 25 article that gives a good summary of some of the top teams.

Final Preseason Top 25 (and one): Distractions don't KO KU from top - NCAA Division I Mens Basketball - CBSSports.com (http://www.cbssports.com/collegebasketball/story/12316643)

Second, a listing detailing all of the preseason tournaments and which teams are involved in each tourney.

2009 preseason tournament guide - NCAA Division I Mens Basketball - CBSSports.com (http://www.cbssports.com/collegebasketball/story/11845053)

Exciting time of the year!

Big 10 is going to be a war this year. Conference homerism I aside, I really do believe it's going to end up being the toughest conference in the Nation this year. You have MSU, Purdue, OSU, Minnesota, Michigan and Illinois in most preseason top 25's. Then you have Wisconsin who is always solid and Indiana who is going to be very young, but very talented.

No way I can even hazard a guess who takes the Big 10 title this year.

Big 10 is going to be a war this year. Conference homerism I aside, I really do believe it's going to end up being the toughest conference in the Nation this year. You have MSU, Purdue, OSU, Minnesota, Michigan and Illinois in most preseason top 25's. Then you have Wisconsin who is always solid and Indiana who is going to be very young, but very talented.

No way I can even hazard a guess who takes the Big 10 title this year.

Hahahaha

Big East #1 fool

Dayton Flyers at #17 in the Sportsline preseason poll. They are in the Puerto Rico tournament the week before Thanksgiving vs. Georgia Tech in round 1, and if they can make it by that matchup will probably face Villanova in round 2.

Rarely has optimism been so high at UD for a team as it has been for this one. Hopefully the Flyers can avoid the injury bug and win the A10 title at last.

LOL at some of the joke (and not JUST Big 10 joke) teams ahead of Syracuse on that list.

The Big Ten is stacked, and will be for quite some time. I know it's hard to believe, but it simply is. This isn't predicted order of finish, just a listing of the 8 teams(some think this is Northwestern's year, which would make it 9, but NU fans/pundits have been saying that for years, and Carmody has yet to take them to the "promised" land) that should be good enough to at least compete for an NCAA bid

PURDUE(Painter's underclassman are now upperclassmen, Final Four potential)
ILLINOIS(Weber's coaching has always been excellent, now his recruiting classes are excellent as well. Mike Davis is an athletic freak/ borderline NBA prospect at the PF position...think Joe Smith)
MINNESOTA(Tubby Smith has been a god-send, his teams are always solid, good for the B10's national rep)
WISCONISN(Bo Ryan's teams aren't pretty, but always tough)
OHIO STATE(Thad Motta can recruit with the best in the game, bottom line)
PENN STATE(Taylor Battle, the best player you didn't see last year is special, I love their head-coach)
MSU(Tom Izzo, enough said)
MICHIGAN(as long as Belein is around, good things are on the horizon)
-----------------AVERAGE TO BELOW AVERAGE---------------
NORTHWESTERN(Kevin Coble and company can compete with anyone, but the lack of depth always does them in)
-----------------------------BAD TEAMS------------------

INDIANA (Not for long, Crean will have this team loaded in a year or two)
IOWA (Not a good time to be an Iowa basketball fan)

LOL at some of the joke (and not JUST Big 10 joke) teams ahead of Syracuse on that list.

Syracuse is going to be a completely different team with the defections. They'll really need to play their way into relevance this year, it's not going to be assumed.

I'm really looking forward to seeing if Avery Bradley is the real deal.

I'm really looking forward to seeing if Avery Bradley is the real deal.

So is the rest of the conference. :D

I'm sure he won't meet the ridiculous expectations of most fans, but that doesn't mean he won't be an impact player for Texas.

I'm really looking forward to seeing if Avery Bradley is the real deal.

From what I've read/heard, his ball-handling is the only think that's questioned. If he can limit his turnovers/play the point, I think he will make a big splash as a frosh. Time will tell!

Syracuse is going to be a completely different team with the defections. They'll really need to play their way into relevance this year, it's not going to be assumed.

They have better guys coming in than left.

They have better guys coming in than left.

If that's true, they'll move up the polls (at least once they get through the intra-state early schedule). They're not going to get the benefit of the doubt like a more intact returning team.

As probably the only 'Nova fan on the board, I'm extremely excited about this upcoming season.

Looking forward to catching a few games at the Pavilion.

If that's true, they'll move up the polls (at least once they get through the intra-state early schedule). They're not going to get the benefit of the doubt like a more intact returning team.

Kentucky is #2. NOT based on who is coming back. Washington lost their two best players and are 12th.

Some of the teams on that list are a joke. Sienna? Dayton? Dayton is a good basketball team, but top 15? No. Sienna is not top 25. Butler 11th? They would not finish that high in the Big East, there's no way they're 11th in the country. Minnesota? Based on what? Cal? Mississippi St.? The guys says that the only reason they might be a good team will never play there, then ranks them anyway.

You are right though, it will play out. Its not upsetting in a "OMG WE"RE GETTING SCREWED" kind of way, just the general ire I feel whenever I see rank stupidity in print.

Some of the teams on that list are a joke. Sienna? Dayton? Dayton is a good basketball team, but top 15? No. Sienna is not top 25.

Dayton has beaten Big East teams with regularity over the past 3 years. Beat Louisville on the road. Thrashed Marquette on a neutral court last season. Handed Pittsburgh their ass at UD Arena 2 years ago. Beat West Virginia pretty easily in the 1st round of the tourney last season. This team is pretty much the same as the team from last season. They deserve a top 25 place. Top 15 may be a stretch, but top 25 is not.

Not to mention the numerous Atlantic 10 teams that have come into the Carrier Dome and handled the 'Cuse.

Excited to see how much improved Arkansas is. A lot of people in here doubt Pelphrey based on the end of season collapse and the off-the-court problems, but I don't. I think he will get it done. Maybe not all the way done, but making the program top 25 competitive again, for sure.

Very anxious to see how Rotnei Clarke does this year. He was listed as the nation's best shooter in a recent article by Fox Sports, and I think it would be difficult to disagree. The kid is crazy good and insanely dedicated to getting better. I think this will be a break-out year for him, especially if Fortson keeps getting better and the true freshman Nobles can take some of the weight off of Rotnei at relieving Fortson at the one spot.

UCLA is a preaseason pick to finish 3rd int he PAC-10. They also have just 3 guards on the roster

WVU has some of its highest expectations ever, having only lost one contributor (SG Alex Ruoff who was very solid, but often came up short in big games) from last season's team. Devin Ebanks is probably the most NBA capable player we have had in my lifetime and he has reportedly put on 10-15 lbs of muscle, so it will be fun to see what type of improvement he can make in his sophomore (and likely final) season at WVU.

Polls have had us in the 10-15, for the most part, so I will hope to see a relatively high seed in the NCAA and to be playing during the second weekend of the tourney.

Should be an interesting year for Washington. Despite losing Jon Brockman, expectations are high that the team can defend their Pac-10 title and make a run in the NCAA Tournament. Super frosh Abdul Gaddy (thanks Lute Olson!) is the big name newcomer, but the return of RS-Fr forward Tyrese Breshears might be just as important as he jumps in the mix of bigs looking to replace some of what was lost with Brockman graduating.

The Husky backcourt should be among the best in the country between Gaddy, Isaiah Thomas, Venoy Overton & Elston Turner, and Sr. Quincy Pondexter takes over the leadership role on the team and looks to continue his maturation into an impact player.

I can't imagine Avery Bradley not making an immediate impact for Texas this year. He's going to be a fun one to watch especially with Barnes' up tempo style.

I'm really looking forward to seeing if Avery Bradley is the real deal.

Marcus Jordan Won't Wear adidas -- NCAA Basketball FanHouse (http://ncaabasketball.fanhouse.com/2009/10/15/marcus-jordan-wont-wear-adidas-at-ucf/)

Central Florida freshman Marcus Jordan won't wear the school's "team shoe" adidas, instead, he'll be wearing Jordan brand. The word on the street is MJ influenced the decision.

Another preseason ranking...........

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2009/writers/luke_winn/10/15/preseason/index.html

I can't wait to watch OU this year. Will be interesting to see how good we are or aren't.

I can't wait to watch OU this year. Will be interesting to see how good we are or aren't.

I'm really excited too. First time in school history we've had three McDonald's All-American's on the same team (Warren III, Gallon, Mason-Griffin). Should be a good year--although not expecting the same level of success without Blake. But, I'm looking forward to going to the games again this year.

Gallon looks like he will be a handful in the Big 12. Can't wait to see how he turns out.

I'm really excited too. First time in school history we've had three McDonald's All-American's on the same team (Warren III, Gallon, Mason-Griffin). Should be a good year--although not expecting the same level of success without Blake. But, I'm looking forward to going to the games again this year.

I know I sound say stuff like this every year, but Coach Barbee has accumulated a ton of talent for the Miners this year. Louisville transfer Derrick Caracter is apparently in great shape and will be eligible in December, and Arnett Moultrie is one of the top sophomore big men in the country. We have a tough schedule that includes games against OU, BYU, Mississippi and Texas Blech...not to mention Memphis. If Coach Barbee can prove that he can actually coach and just not recruit the Miners could be back in the Dance for the first time since 2005.

I know I sound say stuff like this every year, but Coach Barbee has accumulated a ton of talent for the Miners this year. Louisville transfer Derrick Caracter is apparently in great shape and will be eligible in December, and Arnett Moultrie is one of the top sophomore big men in the country. We have a tough schedule that includes games against OU, BYU, Mississippi and Texas Blech...not to mention Memphis. If Coach Barbee can prove that he can actually coach and just not recruit the Miners could be back in the Dance for the first time since 2005.

With Caracter, there is no coaching only recruiting.

Derrick Caracter? Good luck with that guy. In theory, he should be happy that he is THE MAN, but I'm sure it won't last.

Going to a smaller school might be exactly what Caracter needs.

Not to mention the numerous Atlantic 10 teams that have come into the Carrier Dome and handled the 'Cuse.Don't be afraid to mention them ;) I need some good news for what seems like the 5th rebuilding year in the last 7 for UMass. Getting excited about freshmen only works when you think at least 3 of them will make it to their Junior year.

That being said, we do have some nice freshmen :). Terrell Vinson was a consensus top 100 recruit, we have 3-4 more long athletic 3/4's coming in and a couple good guards returning in former Wake transfer Anthony Gurley (every transfer steps it up in year 2), Ricky Harris (the best scoring guard no one ever mentions) and sophomore David Gibbs (a very athletic point guard who is a superb defender). Unfortunately, we only had 2 post players last year, and 1 is fighting for a spot on the Lakers (Tony Gaffney - the clean man's Chris Anderson) and the other, Tyrell Lynch, was kicked off the team for character issues. I'd hate that move more, but the last guy with character issues we kicked off the team (Tiki Mayben) ended up bringing down Binghamton's team over state and federal cocaine charges, so in the abscence of NCAA bids I'd at least like to avoid national scandals.

Dayton has beaten Big East teams with regularity over the past 3 years. Beat Louisville on the road. Thrashed Marquette on a neutral court last season. Handed Pittsburgh their ass at UD Arena 2 years ago. Beat West Virginia pretty easily in the 1st round of the tourney last season. This team is pretty much the same as the team from last season. They deserve a top 25 place. Top 15 may be a stretch, but top 25 is not.

Not to mention the numerous Atlantic 10 teams that have come into the Carrier Dome and handled the 'Cuse.

Hey, I spent one of the best weekend of my college years visiting 'the Ghetto' at UD, and have rooted for their basketball team ever since. I am very familiar with the team. I also have a lot of respect for the A-10 (I think they are a better basketball conference than the Big 10).

But, lets not confuse beating teams in the two or three biggest games on ones schedule with being able to go into a superior league and compete on a night in, night out basis. When Dayton plays at Marquette, that's one of the two or three biggest games on their schedule. Its at best Marquette's 20th most important. Dayton gets up big time for that game, while Marquette is biding their time until the league starts.

Dayton beat Marquette last year, but would have finished no better than 10th in the Big East. Any team with respectable talent can pull an upset or two - that does not necesarily mean they are better.

I'll skip the obvious "KU's gonna rock this year, so long as they move past the off-the-court stuff of the past few weeks" rant and go straight to some of the other teams/players I'll be keeping an eye on this year:

Oklahoma/Willie Warren: I absolutely fell in love with this kid's game last year, and I'm really looking forward to seeing if he can continue to perform now that he's out from Blake Griffin's shadow. I know everybody's falling all over themselves regarding Avery Bradley and Texas, but I really think OU is going to give KU the biggest challenge for a Big 12 title this year.
Villanova/Scottie Reynolds: I've always liked Scottie's leadership and never-say-die attitude. Now he's a senior and you know Jay wants to send him out on a high note.
Kentucky/Memphis: Part of me really hopes that Kentucky falls on their face this year and Memphis continues to shine. I dislike Calipari a lot...he's the definition of the greasy college coach if you ask me.
Michigan State/Tom Izzo: I was born in Michigan and lived 15-minutes from MSU before moving to Chicago as a kid. While living there, a friend of mine's father was one of Heathcoat's assistants on the '79 championship team, so I've always had a soft spot for Spartie. And I think Tom Izzo might be the best pure coach in college hoops today...all the guy does is win, period.
Purdue/Matt Painter: Painter's Baby Boilers are all grown up, and when a Sweet 16 team returns all five starters from the year before, you know that team's going to be good. There's some other talent in the Big 10 for sure, but I really think the conference title comes down to MSU or Purdue. Fortunately the messed-up Big 10 schedule doesn't prevent MSU and Purdue from playing twice this year.

Derrick Caracter? Good luck with that guy. In theory, he should be happy that he is THE MAN, but I'm sure it won't last.

Randy Culpepper (the first Miner in history to have scored over 1000 career points as a sophomore) might have something to say about Caracter being THE MAN. We should have a well balanced team this year after having to rely on Culpepper and CUSA all-time leading scorer Stefon Jackson the past couple of season...

But, lets not confuse beating teams in the two or three biggest games on ones schedule with being able to go into a superior league and compete on a night in, night out basis. When Dayton plays at Marquette, that's one of the two or three biggest games on their schedule. Its at best Marquette's 20th most important. Dayton gets up big time for that game, while Marquette is biding their time until the league starts.

Dayton beat Marquette last year, but would have finished no better than 10th in the Big East. Any team with respectable talent can pull an upset or two - that does not necesarily mean they are better.I can see where that argument comes from, but you're wrong in this case. Dayton is a legitimate top 25 team on talent, beat Marquette on a neutral floor to win a preseason tournament and West Virginia in the NCAA tournament, which I would hope is one of WVU's biggest games. 2008 they won @ Louisville and beat Pitt by 25 at home. 2007 they beat Louisville on a neutral floor and lost @ Pitt. They're not some fly-by-night Cleveland St. team that Syracuse might overlook - they have a top 30 recruit in Wright and have been a consistent NCAA bubble or better team most of the last 7-8 years. Plus, your logic works in reverse - every A-10 team is bringing their A game against Dayton (and Xavier). The Big East is a better conference no doubt, but Xavier the last few years and Dayton this year could easily compete and finish better than 8-10 like the 10th place Big East team (Cincy) did last year.

Hey, I spent one of the best weekend of my college years visiting 'the Ghetto' at UD, and have rooted for their basketball team ever since. I am very familiar with the team. I also have a lot of respect for the A-10 (I think they are a better basketball conference than the Big 10).

But, lets not confuse beating teams in the two or three biggest games on ones schedule with being able to go into a superior league and compete on a night in, night out basis. When Dayton plays at Marquette, that's one of the two or three biggest games on their schedule. Its at best Marquette's 20th most important. Dayton gets up big time for that game, while Marquette is biding their time until the league starts.

Dayton beat Marquette last year, but would have finished no better than 10th in the Big East. Any team with respectable talent can pull an upset or two - that does not necesarily mean they are better.

Enlighten us on how the A-10 is a better conference than the Big 10. Could it be the A-10 one Final 4 appearance 13 years going on 14 years ago or the Big 10's 11 Final 4 appearances in that same time span. Of those 11 appearances, 6 different teams.

MBBF - what does this year hold for the Tigers?

I can see where that argument comes from, but you're wrong in this case. Dayton is a legitimate top 25 team on talent, beat Marquette on a neutral floor to win a preseason tournament and West Virginia in the NCAA tournament, which I would hope is one of WVU's biggest games. 2008 they won @ Louisville and beat Pitt by 25 at home. 2007 they beat Louisville on a neutral floor and lost @ Pitt. They're not some fly-by-night Cleveland St. team that Syracuse might overlook - they have a top 30 recruit in Wright and have been a consistent NCAA bubble or better team most of the last 7-8 years. Plus, your logic works in reverse - every A-10 team is bringing their A game against Dayton (and Xavier). The Big East is a better conference no doubt, but Xavier the last few years and Dayton this year could easily compete and finish better than 8-10 like the 10th place Big East team (Cincy) did last year.

You're the man. Us A10 fans have to stick together. :D

Enlighten us on how the A-10 is a better conference than the Big 10.

Yeah, even I'm not that crazy.

MBBF - what does this year hold for the Tigers?

We're absolutely stacked at the guard position. Tiller and Taylor run the ship. English will be back in the starting lineup as well at the 3 spot. Denmon, Paul and Dixon backing them up. Denmon should be better now that he's resolved his knee injury that slowed him down much of last year. Dixon is VERY fast and will upgrade our defense right away.

Not as much experience inside, though the talent is there. Ramsey, Safford, Bowers and Moore inside will be the rotation. These guys won't score as much as Carroll/Lyons, but they're better defensively.

Key for this year's team will be on the defensive end. Overall team defense should be improved over last year. Team speed is up (if that's possible) and the staff expects to break the school steals record that last year's team set. If Mizzou can improve their defense by 3-4 PPG, they should be in position to make the tourney again. Also, we can't afford any injuries to interior guys. The drop off after Safford, Bowers and Ramsey is pretty steep. There's depth inside (Moore, Stone, and Underwood), but it needs time to develop.

Dayton this year could easily compete and finish better than 8-10 like the 10th place Big East team (Cincy) did last year.

That's exactly where I got 10th place for Dayton. They are very similar talent wise to Cincy.

With the caveat that Cincinnatti would not in any universe have lost to Duquesne or St. Louis.

That's exactly where I got 10th place for Dayton. They are very similar talent wise to Cincy.

With the caveat that Cincinnatti would not in any universe have lost to Duquesne or St. Louis.

Are you talking about the same Cincinnati team that lost to USF and Seton Hall? And the same Duquesne team that beat Xavier?

Or somebody different?

While I love a good BCS vs. Mid-Major fight (on the side of Mid-Majors) - I don't know enough about the details of the A-10 to participate.

I do know that you'd probably have an easier time arguing that they'd be competitive in, well, any conference except for the Big East.

Good to see Clemson in the preseason top 25, but it makes me a bit scared. It seems like anytime Clemson is ranked in any sport, they fail to live up to it. I'm hoping Purnell will prove me wrong. And I really hope that if Clemson and Dayton make it to the tournament, they won't play each other. That might spell d-i-v-o-r-c-e in my house.

While I love a good BCS vs. Mid-Major fight (on the side of Mid-Majors) - I don't know enough about the details of the A-10 to participate.

I do know that you'd probably have an easier time arguing that they'd be competitive in, well, any conference except for the Big East.

I don't really like the arguments that "X" team couldn't play in the Big East because they are a mid-major. All I know is they HAVE played the Big East 6 times in 5 years, and beat 5 of them. I am not delusional enough to think that UD would go 14-4 in conference or something, but to say they were not better than Cincinnati last season is just dead wrong.

Are you talking about the same Cincinnati team that lost to USF and Seton Hall? And the same Duquesne team that beat Xavier?

Or somebody different?Plus Duquesne was 21-13, 77th in RPI.... higher than Cincinnati, let alone the South Florida/Rutgers/DePaul triumvirate of Big East suckitude Cincy went 0-3 against to end their season.

Good to see Clemson in the preseason top 25, but it makes me a bit scared. It seems like anytime Clemson is ranked in any sport, they fail to live up to it. I'm hoping Purnell will prove me wrong. And I really hope that if Clemson and Dayton make it to the tournament, they won't play each other. That might spell d-i-v-o-r-c-e in my house.

No it wouldn't, baby. You'd just have to learn how to root for the Flyers.

Thinking more on ourguard situation, every starting guard on UCLA for the past 6 years, has been a first round pick. I know Howland plays a slow offense which isn't very fun, but isn't the goal the NBA? Why UCLA doesn't have guards (well, ones that can qualify) knocking down their door to play, is beyond me

We're absolutely stacked at the guard position. Tiller and Taylor run the ship. English will be back in the starting lineup as well at the 3 spot. Denmon, Paul and Dixon backing them up. Denmon should be better now that he's resolved his knee injury that slowed him down much of last year. Dixon is VERY fast and will upgrade our defense right away.

Not as much experience inside, though the talent is there. Ramsey, Safford, Bowers and Moore inside will be the rotation. These guys won't score as much as Carroll/Lyons, but they're better defensively.

Key for this year's team will be on the defensive end. Overall team defense should be improved over last year. Team speed is up (if that's possible) and the staff expects to break the school steals record that last year's team set. If Mizzou can improve their defense by 3-4 PPG, they should be in position to make the tourney again. Also, we can't afford any injuries to interior guys. The drop off after Safford, Bowers and Ramsey is pretty steep. There's depth inside (Moore, Stone, and Underwood), but it needs time to develop.

Thanks... I'm excited!

Thanks... I'm excited!

I'm sure this will make you even more excited. Here's a highlight video from the first half of last night's Mizzou Black and Gold game. Lots of little guards flying around scoring points. Great dunk from Bowers around the 2:00 mark. Kim English led all scorers with 32 points (should probably get used to him being the leading scorer). Dixon looked great as well. Enjoy!

Black and Gold Game, First Half - Rivals.com Video (http://rivals.yahoo.com/video/college-basketball/black-and-gold-game-first-half-56156)

I'm sure this will make you even more excited. Here's a highlight video from the first half of last night's Mizzou Black and Gold game. Lots of little guards flying around scoring points. Great dunk from Bowers around the 2:00 mark. Kim English led all scorers with 32 points (should probably get used to him being the leading scorer). Dixon looked great as well. Enjoy!

Black and Gold Game, First Half - Rivals.com Video (http://rivals.yahoo.com/video/college-basketball/black-and-gold-game-first-half-56156)

Good stuff!

Big changes to crack down on third-party recruiting are likely to be implemented soon. Most of the restrictions are suggestions from coaches who are tired of playing the recruiting money game........

Dana O'Neil: Cleaning up college basketball recruiting from within - ESPN (http://sports.espn.go.com/ncb/columns/story?columnist=oneil_dana&id=4601355)

If that's true, they'll move up the polls (at least once they get through the intra-state early schedule). They're not going to get the benefit of the doubt like a more intact returning team.

They lost 1 guy to the NBA. The others left because their ego couldn't hack ridingthe pine and they wanted to pay for their kids. Those two will be bagging groceries down the street soon...

I'm with Capel in that I have an issue with the camps rule. I know some of the smaller colleges in Kansas employ Big 12 athletes to help out and gives those athletes an opportunity to learn from other coaches. So it definitely hurts those athletes making money over the summer from camps. It's also a great way for a young coach as well. I know what they are trying to protect from, but I hope they make it easy to get a waiver exemption for athletes and young coaches.

Big changes to crack down on third-party recruiting are likely to be implemented soon. Most of the restrictions are suggestions from coaches who are tired of playing the recruiting money game........

Dana O'Neil: Cleaning up college basketball recruiting from within - ESPN (http://sports.espn.go.com/ncb/columns/story?columnist=oneil_dana&id=4601355)

First Coaches poll is out.....

1. Kansas (27) 0-0 770
2. Michigan State (3) 0-0 732
3. Texas 0-0 676
4. North Carolina (1) 0-0 653
5. Kentucky 0-0 635
6. Villanova 0-0 620
7. Purdue 0-0 586
8. Duke 0-0 528
9. West Virginia 0-0 501
10. Butler 0-0 408
11. Tennessee 0-0 406
12. California 0-0 370
13. Washington 0-0 364
14. Connecticut 0-0 361
15. Michigan 0-0 279
16. Oklahoma 0-0 244
17. Ohio State 0-0 241
18. Minnesota 0-0 151
19. Mississippi State 0-0 149
20. Georgia Tech 0-0 136
21. Georgetown 0-0 134
22. Dayton 0-0 130
23. Louisville 0-0 123
24. Clemson 0-0 114
25. Syracuse 0-0 111

Others Receiving Votes

Maryland 100, Illinois 83, Siena 72, UCLA 59, Vanderbilt 38, Oklahoma State 29, Missouri 28, Xavier 25, Gonzaga 24, Notre Dame 22, USC 22, Pittsburgh 19, Tulsa 17, Kansas State 16, Brigham Young 16, Florida State 15, Florida 13, Wake Forest 13, San Diego State 8, Creighton 7, Boston College 4, Texas A&M 4, Southern Illinois 3, Utah State 3, Cornell 3, Memphis 3, Mississippi 3, UNLV 2, South Carolina 1, Northern Iowa 1.

Big changes to crack down on third-party recruiting are likely to be implemented soon. Most of the restrictions are suggestions from coaches who are tired of playing the recruiting money game........

Dana O'Neil: Cleaning up college basketball recruiting from within - ESPN (http://sports.espn.go.com/ncb/columns/story?columnist=oneil_dana&id=4601355)

I agree with the spirit of these rules, but in trying to clean up what is perceived as a gray area, they are putting in a bunch of rules about "people associated with prospects." Could that definition be more gray? Seems to be those super harsh penalties could end up being applied to someone who thought they were following the rules.

Not too bad -- 6 Big East teams in the top 25 in a "down" year -- of course, if it is a coaches poll, the size of the Big East may skew the numbers (if the voter representation is based on the number of teams). I'm surprised to see Syracuse crack the top 25 with all of the players that they lost.

It looks like they are expecting the Pac 10 to have a down year.

It looks like they are expecting the Pac 10 to have a down year.
It is a down year - a lot of talent has been drained out of the conference the last few years, and not enough replacements that have panned out immediately.

With questions about UCLA, Arizona in a big transition phase, ASU having lost the two guys that carried that program the last couple of years, USC trying to overcome their scandals, Stanford in major rebuilding mode & WSU adapting to a new coach and coaching philosophy, it's a potentially pretty weak year for the conference.

Everyone seems to agree Washington and Cal should be tournament teams, but beyond that it's a jumble. Oregon State is a trendy sleeper pick, and Oregon could surprise a lot of people if their young guys make big leaps forward, and UCLA has enough talent to win the conference if the team can gel, but it's a weird year to project.

Good to see Clemson in the preseason top 25, but it makes me a bit scared. It seems like anytime Clemson is ranked in any sport, they fail to live up to it. I'm hoping Purnell will prove me wrong. And I really hope that if Clemson and Dayton make it to the tournament, they won't play each other. That might spell d-i-v-o-r-c-e in my house.

Purnell was the first step in a culture change. I think Swinney is the 2nd, but I digress. If Clemson and Dayton DO meet up, well be nice to Butter because he will be an unhappy man.

I know I am prone to hyperbole when it comes to my Tigers, but I would lay a wager out right now that at years end they are a Top 15 team and Top 10 would not surprise me.

I'm with Capel in that I have an issue with the camps rule. I know some of the smaller colleges in Kansas employ Big 12 athletes to help out and gives those athletes an opportunity to learn from other coaches. So it definitely hurts those athletes making money over the summer from camps. It's also a great way for a young coach as well. I know what they are trying to protect from, but I hope they make it easy to get a waiver exemption for athletes and young coaches.

Add me to the list of those seeing some unreasonable issues with that part of the changes.

Can't believe that preseason games start next week. Starting to get REALLY excited.

dola

For the Mizzou fans.....some practice video. You can tell the young guys are really busting their butt in this video. Trying to make an impression on the coach.......

Missouri Basketball Practice - Rivals.com Video (http://rivals.yahoo.com/video/college-basketball/missouri-basketball-practice-56485)

double dola

Second KU player in a week enters a diversion program after pleading guilty to a DUI charge.........

STLtoday - Associated Press News (http://hosted.ap.org/dynamic/stories/B/BKC_BUFORD_DIVERSION_MOOL-?SITE=MOSTP&SECTION=HOME&TEMPLATE=DEFAULT)

Go Findlay!

LOL at some of the joke (and not JUST Big 10 joke) teams ahead of Syracuse on that list.


Can't believe they ranked LeMoyne under Syracuse. I mean, that was pretty obvious.

Iowa got a vote. That is pretty funny. Maybe Iowa can pull an anti Texas Western and win with 5 white guys starting.

I miss George Raveling and his recruiting genius.

EDIT: Nevermind. That is Northern iowa. Sad that this program has dropped so far. I, also, miss Lute Olson.

Can't believe they ranked LeMoyne under Syracuse. I mean, that was pretty obvious.

:lol: :lol:

Someone verify whether Jim Boeheim has any hair left this morning?

Someone verify whether Jim Boeheim has any hair left this morning?

He hasn't had any hair for a while :)

They always seem to play one clunker in the early season, hopefully this season the only one is an exhibition :)

They always seem to play one clunker in the early season, hopefully this season the only one is an exhibition :)

That was my thinking - but I think this might be a long season. Too young and immature.

I have very high hopes for the future though, starting next season. The recruiting classes keep getting better and better.

I was pretty surprised that it was the top SportsCenter story. It's an upset and all, but D2 teams beat D1 teams every so often in exhibition play. Pretty sure Findlay took out Ohio State a couple years ago and Grand Valley State knocked out Michigan State who was a top 10 team.

Heck, my alma mater beat 2 of 3 D1 schools one year that included Minnesota.

I was pretty surprised that it was the top SportsCenter story. It's an upset and all, but D2 teams beat D1 teams every so often in exhibition play. Pretty sure Findlay took out Ohio State a couple years ago and Grand Valley State knocked out Michigan State who was a top 10 team.

Heck, my alma mater beat 2 of 3 D1 schools one year that included Minnesota.

Findlay has been a great program for the last several years, they beat Ohio State in 2007 and in 2008 lost to Xavier and Dayton by a couple points.

Oops, that could have been bad

I was pretty surprised that it was the top SportsCenter story. It's an upset and all, but D2 teams beat D1 teams every so often in exhibition play. Pretty sure Findlay took out Ohio State a couple years ago and Grand Valley State knocked out Michigan State who was a top 10 team.

Heck, my alma mater beat 2 of 3 D1 schools one year that included Minnesota.

Not usually the echelon of Ohio State, Michigan State, and apparently this year, Syracuse, if some are to be believed.

It was pretty big news when MSU went down to Grand Valley a couple years back.

I was pretty surprised that it was the top SportsCenter story.

There was video.

And it was a slow news day. Had the game been last night instead of the day before, it might not have gotten mentioned.

I am surprised these games get mentioned at all. They are exhibitions, and the coaches clearly coach them as such. Not quite to the level of NFL preseason, but they definitely play reserves WAY more minutes, trying to see what they have.

Michael Jordan's son keeps his Nikes; UCF loses $3m adidas deal - (http://content.usatoday.com/communities/ondeadline/post/2009/11/marcus-jordan-keeps-his-dads-nikes-ucf-loses-3m-adidas-deal/1)

It´s valid to say that everyone should have the possibility to play with what feels comfortable, but still ... They better be real comfortable


Marcus, 18-year-old son of the NBA legend, says UCF had promised when recruiting him to the school that he could wear the famous Jordan brand.


and why would you promise sth like that ? Does he bring that much publicity that it´s worth even trying to negotiate with Adidas on this ? Couldn´t you just take the next best player in line ?

I'll be surprised UCF if doesn't have a contract with Nike sometime in the near future.

For Mizzou fans:

Mizzou's latest recruit is featured in an article on ESPN.com...........

Missouri-bound point guard Phil Pressey is ready to take his game to new heights - ESPN (http://sports.espn.go.com/ncaa/recruiting/basketball/mens/news/story?id=4618711)

Evidently Rollie still has it. Took his NAIA team against Florida International and beat Thomas in his debut.........

Isiah Thomas falls short in Florida International debut - ESPN (http://sports.espn.go.com/ncb/news/story?id=4624133)

For Mizzou fans:

Mizzou's latest recruit is featured in an article on ESPN.com...........

Missouri-bound point guard Phil Pressey is ready to take his game to new heights - ESPN (http://sports.espn.go.com/ncaa/recruiting/basketball/mens/news/story?id=4618711)

Excellent read, thank you.

Mizzou wins their first exhibition against Truman State 96-33, including A 46-8 second half! I know its just an exhibition, but thats still damn impressive as other teams are working out the kinks or losing(cough cough syracuse :) )

Mizzou wins their first exhibition against Truman State 96-33, including A 46-8 second half! I know its just an exhibition, but thats still damn impressive as other teams are working out the kinks or losing(cough cough syracuse :) )

That game last night should make a lot of people feel awfully good about our chances. The result was relatively immaterial, but how MU did it was important. The concerns on MU were with the big guys. Bowers had a big game (ignoring the missed dunk that had a bit too much mustard). Ramsey looked very comfortable in Carroll's old role pressing the in-bounds pass and driving to the basket on the slower post man. Safford and Moore looked good as well.

Dixon is going to give us a huge upgrade on the bench. He's the quickest guy on the squad and just knows how to play the game. Really excited to have him stay in-state. Tremendous asset.

dola

Kim English on front page of Yahoo.com this morning.......

Missouri guard Kim English literally sleeps in Mizzou's gym - The Dagger - NCAAB - Yahoo! Sports (http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/basketball/blog/the_dagger/post/Missouri-guard-Kim-English-literally-sleeps-in-M?urn=ncaab,200730)

And from the worst kept secret department, Josh Smith commits to UCLA

And from the worst kept secret department, Josh Smith commits to UCLA
Great get for the Bruins, and as you said, no surprise. Huskies are hoping they can get Terrence Jones, who probably fits Romar's system better (though make no mistake - Huskies wanted Smith bad).

Are you serious? You played Truman State who finished 6-21 last season with a 1-19 record against MIAA. Do you honestly think you can take anything away from that game? You're the craziest koolaid drinking fan I've ever met. You fell in love with Blaine Gabbert after his game against Illinois and then made a fool of yourself by proclaiming that Missouri would then destroy Nebraska which we all know how that turned out. Now you're back at it...claiming Missouri answered questions after beating an awful Truman State squad. At least Illinois was a BCS conference squad. Why don't you chill out and let Missouri play some basketball till making your proclamations. You're nuts man.

That game last night should make a lot of people feel awfully good about our chances. The result was relatively immaterial, but how MU did it was important. The concerns on MU were with the big guys. Bowers had a big game (ignoring the missed dunk that had a bit too much mustard). Ramsey looked very comfortable in Carroll's old role pressing the in-bounds pass and driving to the basket on the slower post man. Safford and Moore looked good as well.

Dixon is going to give us a huge upgrade on the bench. He's the quickest guy on the squad and just knows how to play the game. Really excited to have him stay in-state. Tremendous asset.

Great get for the Bruins, and as you said, no surprise. Huskies are hoping they can get Terrence Jones, who probably fits Romar's system better (though make no mistake - Huskies wanted Smith bad).

I like UDub's chances to land Jones. I think Kent's iffy situation at UO, and the distance to the other possibilities (UCLA/Oklahoma) make Washington the ideal landing spot for Jones.

I like UDub's chances to land Jones. I think Kent's iffy situation at UO, and the distance to the other possibilities (UCLA/Oklahoma) make Washington the ideal landing spot for Jones.

The rumors are that his family wants him at the UW. He supposedly was going to decide tonight whether to make an early commitment this week or to wait until the Spring. It sounds like he's going to wait to decide - that to me sounds like he's in conflict with his family about where to go.

Are you serious? You played Truman State who finished 6-21 last season with a 1-19 record against MIAA. Do you honestly think you can take anything away from that game? You're the craziest koolaid drinking fan I've ever met. You fell in love with Blaine Gabbert after his game against Illinois and then made a fool of yourself by proclaiming that Missouri would then destroy Nebraska which we all know how that turned out. Now you're back at it...claiming Missouri answered questions after beating an awful Truman State squad. At least Illinois was a BCS conference squad. Why don't you chill out and let Missouri play some basketball till making your proclamations. You're nuts man.

Dude, what is your issue? We all know your a kansas fan, and we all know you and Mizzou B-Ball dont get along. Great, now move the hell along. He, and other Mizzou fans(including myself), have every right to enjoy totally dominating a team we were supposed to dominate when other teams in the exact same situation across the country are working out kinks and getting things to click. The serious concerns we had coming into the year looked good, and hes happy. Its early, and against bad competition, but give the guy a break. Not everyone is predicted to win the title this year, allow some of us actually worried about their teams immediate future a little enjoyment. Can you take anything from the game as fact, of course not, as we had weaknesses look good and strengths look bad(like 3 point shooting). But for a team worried that losing its two star players from our best year in long time was going to doom us, its a very pleasant surprise irregardless of who it was against. And calling him the insane kool-aid drinking fan is like the pot calling the kettle black...and yes, Mizzou fans stick together, no matter how crazy we know the other one is :)

Some really terrible news coming out of New Jersey this morning. Seton Hall SG Keon Lawrence was driving drunk on the wrong side of the road on the Garden State Parkway and was in an accident. Both he and the other driver will be fine, but Keon's career may be over due to multiple legal issues.

Seton Hall's Lawrence reportedly drunk in crash - CBSSports.com (http://www.cbssports.com/mcc/blogs/entry/6271764/18218043)

NorthJersey.com: Police: Seton Hall player drunk in wrong-way crash (http://www.northjersey.com/news/Police_Seton_Hall_player_drunk_in_wrong-way_crash.html)

Keon came from a totally broken family in every way, shape, and form. He had no parental role models. Coach Anderson and the MU staff brought him to Mizzou hoping to give him some guidance and structure, but it just didn't work out. Going home was the worst thing he could have done. Just too many demons. I'm sure the Mizzou staff, especially Coach Anderson and Watkins, is crushed to hear this news.

That game last night should make a lot of people feel awfully good about our chances. The result was relatively immaterial, but how MU did it was important. The concerns on MU were with the big guys. Bowers had a big game (ignoring the missed dunk that had a bit too much mustard). Ramsey looked very comfortable in Carroll's old role pressing the in-bounds pass and driving to the basket on the slower post man. Safford and Moore looked good as well.

Dixon is going to give us a huge upgrade on the bench. He's the quickest guy on the squad and just knows how to play the game. Really excited to have him stay in-state. Tremendous asset.

I didn't take much away from that game.. being Truman State and all.. but I'm definitely excited for the season!

Some really terrible news coming out of New Jersey this morning. Seton Hall SG Keon Lawrence was driving drunk on the wrong side of the road on the Garden State Parkway and was in an accident. Both he and the other driver will be fine, but Keon's career may be over due to multiple legal issues.

Seton Hall's Lawrence reportedly drunk in crash - CBSSports.com (http://www.cbssports.com/mcc/blogs/entry/6271764/18218043)

NorthJersey.com: Police: Seton Hall player drunk in wrong-way crash (http://www.northjersey.com/news/Police_Seton_Hall_player_drunk_in_wrong-way_crash.html)

Keon came from a totally broken family in every way, shape, and form. He had no parental role models. Coach Anderson and the MU staff brought him to Mizzou hoping to give him some guidance and structure, but it just didn't work out. Going home was the worst thing he could have done. Just too many demons. I'm sure the Mizzou staff, especially Coach Anderson and Watkins, is crushed to hear this news.

Jesus, you have to really try to drive the wrong way on the GSP, he must have gone the wrong way on a ramp or something, either way, he had to be beyond smashed to make that mistake.

At least he didn't kill anyone and TBH I don't feel bad for him that his career is over.

I'm curious how MBBF would have reported this news if it had been a Kansas player involved in the accident. Somehow I'm not sure there would have been nearly the level of empathy for the drunk driver.

I'm curious how MBBF would have reported this news if it had been a Kansas player involved in the accident. Somehow I'm not sure there would have been nearly the level of empathy for the drunk driver.

I don't have any empathy for the drunk driver. He's going to get his due. But I do have empathy for Keon as a person. I wouldn't wish his circumstances on anyone.

A person who decides to go to KU is increasing the possibility that they may never work outside of a Taco Bell kitchen and deserves to be mocked.

I don't have any empathy for the drunk driver. He's going to get his due. But I do have empathy for Keon as a person. I wouldn't wish his circumstances on anyone.



Not sure how you can have empathy for him. He made the choice to get drunk and risk innocent lives, and trust me when I say he must have been beyond loaded to drive the wrong way on the GSP. There is either a huge stretch of grass or a 4 foot high concrete median between north and south. He is old enough to know right from wrong. I admittedly don't know much about his background, but I am guessing it is typical inner city story. This kid was given the golden ticket and he chose to screw it up. I don't feel any empathy for him at all, hopefully someone who appreciates it more gets his scholarship.

Not sure how you can have empathy for him. He made the choice to get drunk and risk innocent lives, and trust me when I say he must have been beyond loaded to drive the wrong way on the GSP. There is either a huge stretch of grass or a 4 foot high concrete median between north and south. He is old enough to know right from wrong. I admittedly don't know much about his background, but I am guessing it is typical inner city story. This kid was given the golden ticket and he chose to screw it up. I don't feel any empathy for him at all, hopefully someone who appreciates it more gets his scholarship.

He literally had no parental role models during his childhood. His mother eventually showed back up when she realized he was talented, hoping to cash in on his abilities. It's a sad story repeated far too many times in our country.

As I said in previous posts, I'm not excusing his actions in any way. I've driven on the GSP and know the situation it would take to get on the wrong side of the road.

Hey, we've got our first Pomeroy rankings! Syracuse is the #1 team!

(OK, so only 8 teams are ranked so far)

http://kenpom.com/rate.php

Hey, we've got our first Pomeroy rankings! Syracuse is the #1 team!

(OK, so only 8 teams are ranked so far)

http://kenpom.com/rate.php

Meanwhile, we have a 4-way tie for the lead in the RPI thus far.

Jim Boeheim wins #800. With the demise of SU football program, and with the head coaching carousels and constant drama of so many other programs, I appreciate old Jim more than ever.

Meanwhile, we have a 4-way tie for the lead in the RPI thus far.

Jim Boeheim wins #800. With the demise of SU football program, and with the head coaching carousels and constant drama of so many other programs, I appreciate old Jim more than ever.

And also a HUGE supporter of the Coaches vs. Cancer Foundation created by Norm Stewart. It seems like Norm was here at Mizzou forever and only had around 700 wins. 800 wins is an incredible achievement.

Did anyone suggest you couldn't enjoy the game? All that was suggested is to let the team play a few games before making any claims regarding the team. And based on your response it sounds like you agree with me so I'm not sure why you're calling me out if you agree that you can't take anything from that game.

As for this year's MU squad, you have some great guards returning so I'm not sure why you assumed the Tigers would struggle. KSU had a similar situation last year when they lost Beasley and Walker, but returned some experienced guards. Frank Martin is a good young coach, but he's not the coach that Anderson currently is. I'm not worried about MU being competitive this year. They'll go through some growing pains while the young post players learn, but they have the talent on the wing to more than make up for it.

PS: I may be a KU fan, but most of my family are MU fans so I see a lot of MU basketball and have a ton of respect for Missouri athletics. Coaching characters like Norm Stewart and Billy Tubbs were one of the things I loved about the old Big 8. A large number of my family share Norm's home town which I am extremely proud of. So yes, I have an interest in MU.

Dude, what is your issue? We all know your a kansas fan, and we all know you and Mizzou B-Ball dont get along. Great, now move the hell along. He, and other Mizzou fans(including myself), have every right to enjoy totally dominating a team we were supposed to dominate when other teams in the exact same situation across the country are working out kinks and getting things to click. The serious concerns we had coming into the year looked good, and hes happy. Its early, and against bad competition, but give the guy a break. Not everyone is predicted to win the title this year, allow some of us actually worried about their teams immediate future a little enjoyment. Can you take anything from the game as fact, of course not, as we had weaknesses look good and strengths look bad(like 3 point shooting). But for a team worried that losing its two star players from our best year in long time was going to doom us, its a very pleasant surprise irregardless of who it was against. And calling him the insane kool-aid drinking fan is like the pot calling the kettle black...and yes, Mizzou fans stick together, no matter how crazy we know the other one is :)

Andy Katz's Daily Word: Taking a shot at ranking all 32 conferences - ESPN (http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/blog/index?entryID=4641135&name=katz_andy)

I agree, as the BigTen is simply loaded with talent for the next few years. Good coaches/recruiters will make the 2010-2015 seasons extremely competitive and fun to watch.

Regarding Mizzou, just like Mizzou owns Illinois in football, the tables are reversed in basketball. Can't wait for that game!

And also a HUGE supporter of the Coaches vs. Cancer Foundation created by Norm Stewart. It seems like Norm was here at Mizzou forever and only had around 700 wins. 800 wins is an incredible achievement.

Heh funny story.

I'm not so sure on Jim's involvementwith Coaches vs Cancer anymore. He has always had a fundraiser for CvC at Turning Stone Casino which raised a LOT of money. Seems sombody at CvC started raising a stink about being associated with gambling and wanted it moved. Boeheim told them no and basically set up his own charity. I think the quote was "Somebody will get a lot of money donated, it just won't be Coaches vs Cancer" or something along those lines.

Andy Katz's Daily Word: Taking a shot at ranking all 32 conferences - ESPN (http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/blog/index?entryID=4641135&name=katz_andy)

I agree, as the BigTen is simply loaded with talent for the next few years. Good coaches/recruiters will make the 2010-2015 seasons extremely competitive and fun to watch.

Regarding Mizzou, just like Mizzou owns Illinois in football, the tables are reversed in basketball. Can't wait for that game!

The SEC being rated above the Pac 10 speaks volumes.

Down cycle for the Pac-10. Should pick up starting next year.

The Dayton Flyers locked up probably their best recruiting class ever today by getting signed letters of intent from all 5 verbal commits, including Rivals #44 (#11 PG) Juwan Staten, and Rivals #116 (#30 SG) Brandon Spearman. Add that into a top-25 preseason ranked team hosting Creighton, and things are finally looking up for my alma mater's basketball program after a few years of just hoping to squeeze into the NIT.

Down cycle for the Pac-10. Should pick up starting next year.

Yup. You can't keep losing lottery picks (too numerous to list) and top coaches (Olsen, Bennett, Floyd, Johnson) and expect to stay among the elite every year. The conference will be better next season, as the young talent in place doesn't look quite as lookly to jump early as the young talent in the past has.

I'm in agreement with Chief Rum. The Pac 10 has taken some huge hits in recent years due to the NBA (three guys in the top 10 of the 2009 draft), but they'll be back.

Yup. You can't keep losing lottery picks (too numerous to list) and top coaches (Olsen, Bennett, Floyd, Johnson) and expect to stay among the elite every year. The conference will be better next season, as the young talent in place doesn't look quite as lookly to jump early as the young talent in the past has.

Heh funny story.

I'm not so sure on Jim's involvementwith Coaches vs Cancer anymore. He has always had a fundraiser for CvC at Turning Stone Casino which raised a LOT of money. Seems sombody at CvC started raising a stink about being associated with gambling and wanted it moved. Boeheim told them no and basically set up his own charity. I think the quote was "Somebody will get a lot of money donated, it just won't be Coaches vs Cancer" or something along those lines.

Hadn't heard that. I know he's done quite a few things with Norm in the past.

Could be a big weekend for Mizzou. 4-star PG Phil Pressey (top 40 nationally) signed with Mizzou yesterday. 5-star SF Tony Mitchell (top 15 nationally) will be in town for a visit. Rumor on the local airwaves is that if he has a good visit, he'll sign in the current signing period. Two top-40 players in the same class would be a great class for Coach Anderson.

Could be a big weekend for Mizzou. 4-star PG Phil Pressey (top 40 nationally) signed with Mizzou yesterday. 5-star SF Tony Mitchell (top 15 nationally) will be in town for a visit. Rumor on the local airwaves is that if he has a good visit, he'll sign in the current signing period. Two top-40 players in the same class would be a great class for Coach Anderson.

Amen to that!

Duke loses a starter to a broken wrist...........

Mason Plumlee of Duke Blue Devils out with broken wrist - ESPN (http://sports.espn.go.com/ncb/news/story?id=4648927)

First Bracketology of the season is up..........

Bracketology - ESPN (http://sports.espn.go.com/ncb/bracketology)

Good primer on mid-major teams to watch out for in the upcoming season...........

Fran Fraschilla: The best mid-major teams and players for the 2009-10 college basketball season - ESPN (http://sports.espn.go.com/ncb/preview2009/columns/story?columnist=fraschilla_fran&id=4641662)

Harrison Barnes decides today, he's the top prospect in the nation. It's likely a Duke-UNC battle, but he's also considering Kansas, Oklahoma, UCLA, and the hometown ISU

Barnes opts for UNC. Great get for Roy Williams. He had to make up a lot of ground to Duke who was long thought to be the leader. UNC is getting a great young man and a great basketball player.

Harrison Barnes decides today, he's the top prospect in the nation. It's likely a Duke-UNC battle, but he's also considering Kansas, Oklahoma, UCLA, and the hometown ISU

Good primer on mid-major teams to watch out for in the upcoming season...........

Fran Fraschilla: The best mid-major teams and players for the 2009-10 college basketball season - ESPN (http://sports.espn.go.com/ncb/preview2009/columns/story?columnist=fraschilla_fran&id=4641662)Kind of a weird breakdown of mid-major there. I know the A-10 and particularly Xavier hates it (so they'll be happy not to be included), but I always thought mid-major was the multiple bid non-BCS leagues like the A-10, Horizon, C-USA, CAA, Mac, WAC. And then the 1-bid leagues were low-major.

Kind of a weird breakdown of mid-major there. I know the A-10 and particularly Xavier hates it (so they'll be happy not to be included), but I always thought mid-major was the multiple bid non-BCS leagues like the A-10, Horizon, C-USA, CAA, Mac, WAC. And then the 1-bid leagues were low-major.

Personally, I have always thought that some of the bigger conferences below the top, top ones are actually above "mid-majors". In my mind, these are the A-10, C-USA, WAC and Mountain West. They're bigger than mid-majors as I have always thought of them. They all almost always get multiple teams in the dance, often times even more than two.

Mid-majors as I have come to see it are the Horizon, CAA, MAC, WCC and the Missouri Valley. Maybe the Ivy, too. Big West back in the day would have been somewhere between the above four and the mid-majors in this group (when they had New Mexico and UNLV and Fresno State), but now they're probably a shade below this group.

Well. I wasn't going to say anything about this game, but, well, wow.

Arkansas leads Alcorn State 71-26 at halftime. Good heavens. Rotnei Clarke (recent article proclaimed him the best shooter in the country this year) has 31 points at halftime and is 9 for 11 from 3. This team really looks pretty darned good (I know, Alcorn State, but I watched this team struggle against bad competition last year, too).

And this is with 4 players suspended, including Courtney Fortson. Once these suspensions are over, this team may really be something this year.

Maybe.

Clarke has 40 points with 11 minutes to go in the game. I think he is 1 trey from the school record for 3s in a game and 6 pts from the most points scored in a game. Arkansas has 99 points on the scoreboard, too. This is quite fun to watch.

Broke the school record for points in a game and 3s in a game. He now has 51 points with 3 something to play and 13 made 3 pointers.

Awesome on Rotnei. How's Jemal Farmar doing?

He has 27 points I think. Looks really good. So does Powell. They look really good tonight.

130-68 Final, Rotnei was taken out for good after he got both records, 51 pts and 13 3s.

Well. I wasn't going to say anything about this game, but, well, wow.

Arkansas leads Alcorn State 71-26 at halftime. Good heavens. Rotnei Clarke (recent article proclaimed him the best shooter in the country this year) has 31 points at halftime and is 9 for 11 from 3. This team really looks pretty darned good (I know, Alcorn State, but I watched this team struggle against bad competition last year, too).

And this is with 4 players suspended, including Courtney Fortson. Once these suspensions are over, this team may really be something this year.

Maybe.

Is courtney Fortson related to Danny Fortson?

No.

W&M played VERY respectable against UConn. Cut it 4 about midway through the 2nd half, but just couldn't keep up. Ended up only losing by 10 (I think, don't feel like double checking).

Xavier Henry drops 27 in his debut for the Jayhawks against Hofstra (and it could have been much worse than that). I knew the kid was big for a guard, but actually seeing him play for the first time...damn. Kid's a beast...6'6" 220 lb guard. Still, he seemed a little lax on defense and does what a lot of freshmen do...plays it with his hands instead of his feet.

Promising start for the Illini, who won 96-69 against an overmatched SIU Edwardsville team. The point total is the most for Illinois since 2004 and the top two scorers were freshmen guards Brandon Paul (22) and D.J. Richardson (14). Richardson has been assumed to be a starter since setting foot on campus, but Paul appears to have overtaken Alex Legion (highly regarded juco who did show much during games last spring) for the 5th starter spot at this point.

Missing 2 of their 3 best players, my Wright State Raiders lost a close 74-69 game at Washington to open the season. Some of you don't know Wright State, but (if we stay healthy) you will see them in the dance this season. It's going to be an awesome year :)

I could have sworn Alex Legion was the transfer from Kentucky. Are you thinking of Dominique Keller?

Promising start for the Illini, who won 96-69 against an overmatched SIU Edwardsville team. The point total is the most for Illinois since 2004 and the top two scorers were freshmen guards Brandon Paul (22) and D.J. Richardson (14). Richardson has been assumed to be a starter since setting foot on campus, but Paul appears to have overtaken Alex Legion (highly regarded juco who did show much during games last spring) for the 5th starter spot at this point.

KU played solid last night. Their defense is still a work in progress which is something Bill Self will not be happy with. They're great at getting into the passing lanes and getting steals, but they have a tendency to sometimes give up the easy points and open shots outside the arc from not getting back on defense. It got a little sloppy on offense at times and Self was forced to settle things down with timeouts. Nothing really to take from this game aside from getting the young guys minutes. Free throw shooting was a bit problematic, but it was mainly two to three guys who struggled while everyone else was fine.

Hofstra obviously struggled. They got into early foul trouble because of KU pushing the ball inside early and often and thus they were forced to pack it in before half and give KU some open looks from the outside that I'm sure they'd rather not have. Charles Jenkins is a pretty good player, but struggled in the first half by attempting to force dribble penetration against one of the better shot blockers in the Big 12 (Cole Aldrich). Once he let the game come to him in the second half he finished with 23 points on 9 of 20 shooting. Hofstra definitely has some talent, but they can't afford to get into foul trouble because of their smaller roster.



Xavier Henry drops 27 in his debut for the Jayhawks against Hofstra (and it could have been much worse than that). I knew the kid was big for a guard, but actually seeing him play for the first time...damn. Kid's a beast...6'6" 220 lb guard. Still, he seemed a little lax on defense and does what a lot of freshmen do...plays it with his hands instead of his feet.

I could have sworn Alex Legion was the transfer from Kentucky. Are you thinking of Dominique Keller?

Oops, you are correct. I meant transfer but for some reason typed juco.

Not a problem. How's Legion been doing for Illinois? I know he was rated as a pretty high prospect coming out of high school, but can't recall having seen him play much since he transferred.

Oops, you are correct. I meant transfer but for some reason typed juco.

WOOHOO!!!!!! Mizzou just got a signed commitment this morning from Tony Mitchell, the #15 ranked player nationally in the class of 2010. Add in the Phil Pressey commitment and Mizzou has 2 of the top 40 players in the nation signed for next year.

Here's a link with video detailing Mizzou's first 5 star recruit under Coach Anderson...........

http://www.mizsports.com/thecolumns/2009/11/15/mitchell-coming.html

Attention for Mizzou now turns to getting a Bradley Beal commitment (#7 in the nation in 2011).

Not a problem. How's Legion been doing for Illinois? I know he was rated as a pretty high prospect coming out of high school, but can't recall having seen him play much since he transferred.

A lot was expected from the Illini fans last year, but he really did not seem to ever find a groove last season. He looked for his shot, but didn't hit enough of them and was a liability on defense.

This year it sounds like he has been feast/famine in practices, but I don't think it was a good sign for him that Paul started ahead of him in the first game. I would have expected that this coaching staff would start the junior over the freshman if all things were equal.

WOOHOO!!!!!! Mizzou just got a signed commitment this morning from Tony Mitchell, the #15 ranked player nationally in the class of 2010. Add in the Phil Pressey commitment and Mizzou has 2 of the top 40 players in the nation signed for next year.

Here's a link with video detailing Mizzou's first 5 star recruit under Coach Anderson...........

Mizsports.com - The Columns Home - Mitchell*coming (http://www.mizsports.com/thecolumns/2009/11/15/mitchell-coming.html)

Attention for Mizzou now turns to getting a Bradley Beal commitment (#7 in the nation in 2011).

Sweet news!!!

Really shitty luck for Northwestern. They had a great shot at making their first NCAA tournament in school history and lost two starters for the season, including their best player.

The only good news is that it happened early and Coble can redshirt the season. The team is young and would come mostly in tact next year (along with a nice freshman that has commited). The Big 10 should be down next year so they may actually have a shot at winning the conference.

Wisconsin is going to be better than a lot of people think... as it usually goes for them.

Jon Leuer is close to being a stud; he just needs to do his stuff with consistency.

J-Bo and Trevon, senior guards leading their team, which is going to be a HUUUUGE plus come tournament time; as having good leaders at the guard position always seems to be key.

ESPN Magazine had Wisky rated below Indiana in their rankings - I thought that was pretty off-base.

Wayyyy off base. Indiana is HORRIBLE.

Wisconsin will finish at worst 6th in the Big Ten and should have no problems getting into the tourney.

Big Ten has taken a couple of hits before the start of the season. Sounds like Minnesota's prize recruit (Royce White? think that is the name) is in serious legal trouble and may be getting the boot. That, plus the NW injuries, will make for a little easier games against teams who were expected to be up this season.

Granted it was vs DII Northern Michigan, but Manny Harris notched only the second triple double in Michigan hoops history with 18 points, 13 boards and 10 assists. The two freshman who will see a lot of time, Darius Morris, our starting PG, and Matt Vogrich, a reserve Guard were both very good in their debuts.

Best win these easy ones now, because the schedule gets brutal, with these games on the docket:

Xavier/Marquette (Old Spice Tournament, play the winner/loser)
Potentially Baylor, Alabama or FSU if we make the finals
Boston College
@ Utah
@ Kansas
UConn (In the middle of Big 10 play)

Plus the Big 10 slate.

What's with all the triple doubles these days. Sheesh.

Just found out that I got tickets for the Texas-North Carolina game at the new Cowboys stadium next month!

That should be a fun game to watch. Good luck to your Longhorns and represent the Big 12 with a win.

Just found out that I got tickets for the Texas-North Carolina game at the new Cowboys stadium next month!

Just found out that I got tickets for the Texas-North Carolina game at the new Cowboys stadium next month!

1. Where are you sitting?

2. Is the court going to be in the center of the stadium like they did in Michigan for those basketball games?

Just found out that I got tickets for the Texas-North Carolina game at the new Cowboys stadium next month!

Bring your binoculars.

where's wade?

ESPN's 24 hours of college basketball thing starts tonight with UCLA-CSUF at 9 p.m PDT (12 a.m. EST of course). Should be a fun 24 hours, although I won't get to watch most of it.

Looking forward to the KU-Memphis game tomorrow night.

Looking forward to the KU-Memphis game tomorrow night.

That one should be pretty good. Memphis is obviously the underdog, but it should provide a good measuring stick for KU.

I don't what to expect tomorrow night. It is really hard to tell just how good Memphis can be. Our top eight players are good (not national championship good, but make the tournament good) but we are real thin. If we get in foul trouble, we are going to have a problem.

Either way, I am really happy with the decision to hire Josh Pastner. Our recruiting class for next season is incredible. Jelan Kendrick was a surprise and is our third five star player. Tarik Black is signing his LOI today as well.

I don't what to expect tomorrow night. It is really hard to tell just how good Memphis can be. Our top eight players are good (not national championship good, but make the tournament good) but we are real thin. If we get in foul trouble, we are going to have a problem.

Either way, I am really happy with the decision to hire Josh Pastner. Our recruiting class for next season is incredible. Jelan Kendrick was a surprise and is our third five star player. Tarik Black is signing his LOI today as well.

How is Memphis' depth down low? I figure the Tigers should have the depth to at least run with KU's guards for a while (though Xavier Henry could be a matchup problem), but Self is going to run four deep with the bigs. Aldrich being the obvious number one but then 3 good interchangeable parts in Thomas Robinson and the Morris twins.

We have Witherspoon who is 6'8 who can guard a big. Other than that, Coleman and Niles are the only other two bigs.

Here is the class for Memphis next season:

http://www.memphishoops.com/2010-recruits-640.jpg

Did the NCAA do away with the rule where you could not sign more than 7 players over a two year period (which I always thought was kind of silly).

Yes. If not, they would have to make an exception for Memphis which got pillaged when X coach left.

Not a single token white guy. I'm so disappointed, Memphis.

Hippolyte! What an awesome name.

Kentucky tied with Miami (OH) with 4 minutes left in the game.

WOW! Miami buries the 3 with 6 seconds left to tie the game.

Edit: And then Wall makes the game winner at the buzzer! What a game!

Here is the class for Memphis next season:

http://www.memphishoops.com/2010-recruits-640.jpg

Impressive class. I havent been following this thread so it was likely mentioned but the gophers 5 star recruit has been booted for stealing 3 times in a month. Must have some high moral character.

Pastner has done a great job in rebuilding the squad after Calipari left the cupboard a bit bare. Memphis may struggle a bit this year due to their lack of depth, but Pastner is definitely loading up on talent.

UCLA is bad

UCLA is bad

Yup. It's going to be a long year.

This is the year when some of the awful recruiting decisions Howland has been making is going to come back and bite him.

This is why you still look at fallbacks and 3 star guys with upside when your 4-5 star targets fall through--because every team that has the stars to make a run, also has the sort of steady glue guys that stay all four years and mean everything to a program. Instead, UCLA recruits Jrue Holiday, who sucked and left after a year, and decided not to bring in any other guards worth a damn for three straight years. But, hey, we got tons of SFs!

Always good to see 'Nova beat the snot out of one of the Philadelphia Big Five (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Philadelphia_Big_5) (even if it is Penn).

Missouri State got a win over Auburn last night. Missouri Valley Conference fans have to be excited to see a win over a big conference team this early in the season. Those kinds of wins allow the conference to get a second or third team into the dance.

Woohoo, UTEP's ranked #1 in the nation!!!

NCAA College Basketball Polls - CBSSports.com (http://www.cbssports.com/collegebasketball/polls/rpi/index1)

Gotta love early season RPI rankings...

Always good to see 'Nova beat the snot out of one of the Philadelphia Big Five (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Philadelphia_Big_5) (even if it is Penn).

Well thats not a huge deal since Penn State did beat Penn a few days ago. :)

Missouri State got a win over Auburn last night. Missouri Valley Conference fans have to be excited to see a win over a big conference team this early in the season. Those kinds of wins allow the conference to get a second or third team into the dance.

Generally yes, but Auburn appears to stink. They barely beat low major Niagara at home.

Kudos to Auburn for at least playing at Missouri St. That's the kind of game almost no BCS caliber team will touch.

Well thats not a huge deal since Penn State did beat Penn a few days ago. :)

I hope PSU gets in the tournament this year. They were really fun to watch in the NIT.

Woohoo, UTEP's ranked #1 in the nation!!!

NCAA College Basketball Polls - CBSSports.com (http://www.cbssports.com/collegebasketball/polls/rpi/index1)

Gotta love early season RPI rankings...

Not so fast, my friend! :)

Rk. School W L RPI SOS Rank SOS
1 West Virginia 1 0 0.8750 1 0.8333
1 Texas-El Paso 1 0 0.8750 1 0.8333

Did the NCAA do away with the rule where you could not sign more than 7 players over a two year period (which I always thought was kind of silly).

Yes, the 5/8 rule is gone (Couldn't sign more than 5 in one year, 8 over two years).

I freaking love ESPN360...being able to watch Mizzou take on Tennessee-Martin live in high quality is amazing!

A math problem.

What does a boring, low talent, losing team + small crowds equal?






Todd Lickliter losing his job.
Actually, Iowa doesnt fire coaches. We let the contracts run out and not re-hire the coach. :(

I hate Gonzaga. They're giving me a heart-attack. I thought MSU would win semi-easily. They're one of the best unranked teams though.

DePaul is losing by 6 to Columbia in the 2nd half. There appears to be a few hundred people at the game. How pathetic can a program get where I'm hoping that they can bring in Isiah someday.

Nevermind, Big East Network had the scores reversed. They still don't look impressive at all against a bad team.

Spartans are going to have to get better play from their bigs if they want to make a run this year.

Dola...

Whew!

Wow Memphis scaring the crap out of Kansas. Memphis played well for so much inexperience in a tough situation like that. Kansas couldnt pull away.

I hate Gonzaga. They're giving me a heart-attack. I thought MSU would win semi-easily. They're one of the best unranked teams though.

could ýou or some other viewers give me some info on how Elias Harris (german freshman for Gonzaga) did beside the good numbers (17/9) ?
Did he primarily play at the 4 spot ? or substantial time at the 3 as well ?

I´m pretty surprised he´s immediately a 30 minute guy getting a ton of shots. Showed tons of promise with the national team this summer but still looked really raw offensively and has played in germany´s lower leagues afterall.

another german national team player (debuted this summer as well) playing college ball is Lucca Staiger (Iowa State) and he hit 10 3 pointers last night against Drake :D (out of 16 tries)
Was hoping he´d play a different role than just the 3 point guy (in the first 3 games, 30 of his 32 FGs are from behing the arc ...) as he looked like the future starting SG for our NT this summer and i´d have hoped he´d handle the ball more this season ...

Wow Memphis scaring the crap out of Kansas. Memphis played well for so much inexperience in a tough situation like that. Kansas couldnt pull away.

That's the thing. I'm not sure that Memphis played all that well. There was some UGLY basketball on both ends of that court in that game. We'll just put a positive spin on it by saying it was a great defensive struggle. :)

This article ties in to what's been discussed of late in this thread. Big mention of both Memphis and Mizzou's 2010 recruiting classes in this ESPN article..........

Basketball recruiting: The strength of Memphis' class was a major statement by first-year coach Josh Pastner - ESPN (http://sports.espn.go.com/ncaa/recruiting/basketball/mens/news/story?id=4664716)

Stan Heath in hot water over NCAA violations at South Florida........

Numerous NCAA Violations Surface at South Florida -- NCAA Basketball FanHouse (http://ncaabasketball.fanhouse.com/2009/11/18/numerous-ncaa-violations-surface-at-south-florida/?ncid=txtlnkusspor00000002)

Sadly, there wasn't much defense played so it was just an overall struggle. Neither team played very well. A lot of unforced errors from both squads when players forced the pace when they probably shouldn't have. It's still early so you just hope both teams learn from it and improve. I liked what I saw out of Pastner though. He's got a solid squad if they can stay out of foul trouble because of their horrendous lack of depth.

That's the thing. I'm not sure that Memphis played all that well. There was some UGLY basketball on both ends of that court in that game. We'll just put a positive spin on it by saying it was a great defensive struggle. :)

UNC starts a really interesting 30 day stretch tonight against #15 Ohio State. Their next game will be against either #12 Cal or #24 Syracuse, and in December they play #2 Michigan State, #5 Kentucky, and #3 Texas.

I haven't been able to see them yet since I don't' get ESPNU. I think they're a legit top 15 team for sure but I am surprised to see them in the top 5 and doubt they will stay there, but it should be a fun season. I'm curious to see if Deon Thompson can be a consistent go-to guy, and hopeful that Larry Drew can develop into a reliable point guard.

Mostly though I'm looking forward to watching Ed Davis dominate the paint, the second Ty Lawson turned pro Davis became my favorite current Tar Heel.

Dayton with the big comeback win over Georgia Tech this afternoon in Puerto Rico. Villanova somehow comes back to beat George Mason, giving us a nice semifinal battle in PR tomorrow afternoon.

This is what the UD fan base was talking about all offseason, the potential 2nd round PR matchup with Villanova... now that it's here, hopefully UD can cash in the opportunity.

The Longhorns have looked very good thus far. The Texas - UNC game should be a great test for UNC.

UNC starts a really interesting 30 day stretch tonight against #15 Ohio State. Their next game will be against either #12 Cal or #24 Syracuse, and in December they play #2 Michigan State, #5 Kentucky, and #3 Texas.

Dayton with the big comeback win over Georgia Tech this afternoon in Puerto Rico. Villanova somehow comes back to beat George Mason, giving us a nice semifinal battle in PR tomorrow afternoon.

This is what the UD fan base was talking about all offseason, the potential 2nd round PR matchup with Villanova... now that it's here, hopefully UD can cash in the opportunity.


I can't see Villanova being as good as people think they are with that frontcourt. I'm interested to see how they do against quality competition.

Watching the Sparties in person on Sunday, hoping for another great year out of them. I think our interior is probably at its weakest, as much as I liked Suton, he really wasn't that highly touted, he just stepped up his game when it was his time to play. I think some of the new guys will have an impact though, Izzo couches em up well.

Do they still play basketball on the west coast because SU just bitchslapped Cal!

Do they still play basketball on the west coast because SU just bitchslapped Cal!

Shocking that a Pac 10 team is overrated going into this season.

Well Iowa is 0-2. It is going to be a long season. :(

The Big East has still not lost a game this season. I thought that Syracuse-Cal game could do it, but all 16-teams are still undefeated.

The Big East has still not lost a game this season. I thought that Syracuse-Cal game could do it, but all 16-teams are still undefeated.Including teams whose toughest wins are against Columbia (Depaul) Loyola (West Virginia) Marist (Rutgers) Toledo (Cincinnati) Maryland-Eastern Shore/Centenary (Marquette) St. Peters (Seton Hall) St. Bonaventure (St. Johns) Hofstra (UConn) Long Beach St (Notre Dame) Eastern Kentucky (Pitt) and Mercer (Providence)

I mean, 35-0 looks impressive and I'll give credit to South Florida, but losing any one other than the Cal, George Mason and Temple games would have been the lead story on Sportscenter - and the latter two were 1 point wins over mid-pack CAA/A-10 teams. How's the Dayton is overrated and can't be better than any Big East team bandwagon coming? (EDIT - sorry, got people mixed up.)

It didn't help that Cal was playing without Robertson, but this is a down year for the Pac-10, and I suspect Cal is overrated.

Including teams whose toughest wins are against Columbia (Depaul) Loyola (West Virginia) Marist (Rutgers) Toledo (Cincinnati) Maryland-Eastern Shore/Centenary (Marquette) St. Peters (Seton Hall) St. Bonaventure (St. Johns) Hofstra (UConn) Long Beach St (Notre Dame) Eastern Kentucky (Pitt) and Mercer (Providence)

I mean, 35-0 looks impressive and I'll give credit to South Florida, but losing any one other than the Cal, George Mason and Temple games would have been the lead story on Sportscenter - and the latter two were 1 point wins over mid-pack CAA/A-10 teams. How's the Dayton is overrated and can't be better than any Big East team bandwagon coming? (EDIT - sorry, got people mixed up.)

I'm not touting their resume or anything, but it is impressive (and more than likely just an anomaly), but with all of the upsets that happen at the beginning of the season (and throughout), the crappy teams at the bottom of the conference, and the handful of decent matchups out there, it is still hard to believe. I don't think it will amount to much by the end of the season, but it is newsworthy the longer that it goes on.

I'm not touting their resume or anything, but it is impressive (and more than likely just an anomaly), but with all of the upsets that happen at the beginning of the season (and throughout), the crappy teams at the bottom of the conference, and the handful of decent matchups out there, it is still hard to believe. I don't think it will amount to much by the end of the season, but it is newsworthy the longer that it goes on.

Hopefully it doesn't last past Friday evening when Syracuse plays UNC(barring a major comeback of course) ;)

Whew! UNC hangs on for the win in an ugly game. Thoughts on the game:

-- This is going to be a totally different Tar Heel team than in the last 4-5 years. Just tons of size. As long as Drew can be competent it should be lots of fun, but very different from the two title teams.

-- Marcus Ginyard being able to score is a real joy to see

-- Deon Thompson dribbles the ball WAY too much. This must be fixed.

-- Turnovers are a serious issue right now for this team. Presumably that will improve with experience.


Looking forward to Syracuse Friday. I love the non-conference schedule that UNC has this year. Lots of talent but little experience... hopefully all of the challenging opponents early in the year will help them be more ready by the time Duke and tournaments roll around on the schedule.

Ohio State's two biggest flaws were exposed, no true point guard and no size. Sometimes I can't stand to watch Evan Turner play, especially games like last night when he tries to force everything...the result 10 turnovers for him.

I can't see Villanova being as good as people think they are with that frontcourt. I'm interested to see how they do against quality competition.

It's still early, but I felt 'Nova was overrated coming into the season for that reason as well as Scottie Reynolds pretty much not being as good as people make him out to be.

Still, the Big East lacks a power team, and the 'Cats have enough firepower to win the regular season conference. Just like last year, then (where we had a light draw against #14 seed, overrated Duke/UCLA teams, and a #1 Pitt who we matched up very well against), it all depends on who we get to play in the tournament.

Man, but that Pitt-Nova game in the elite eight last year. Hoo, boy. I get chills even thinking about it. I hope we get another one like that this year.

Man, but that Pitt-Nova game in the elite eight last year. Hoo, boy. I get chills even thinking about it. I hope we get another one like that this year.

I was at a campus bar at 'Nova for that game. Let's just say that the atmosphere was electric and I was fortunate to get out alive.

Including teams whose toughest wins are against Columbia (Depaul) Loyola (West Virginia) Marist (Rutgers) Toledo (Cincinnati) Maryland-Eastern Shore/Centenary (Marquette) St. Peters (Seton Hall) St. Bonaventure (St. Johns) Hofstra (UConn) Long Beach St (Notre Dame) Eastern Kentucky (Pitt) and Mercer (Providence)

I mean, 35-0 looks impressive and I'll give credit to South Florida, but losing any one other than the Cal, George Mason and Temple games would have been the lead story on Sportscenter - and the latter two were 1 point wins over mid-pack CAA/A-10 teams. How's the Dayton is overrated and can't be better than any Big East team bandwagon coming? (EDIT - sorry, got people mixed up.)

Every BCS conference has played mostly stiffs, and none of the others are undefeated.

The Pac-10 did not make it past the first game of the season, when their marquee team played a stiff at home.

Oooooooooooh yeahhhhhhhhhhh

Syracuse looks really really good, congrats to them, great performance.

The first 10 minutes of the second half were a total embarrassment for UNC. Airballing 3's, hardly trying to go inside at all, and the defense was just an abomination. I don't think a Syracuse shooter had a hand in his face during a shot for about 6 or 7 minutes.

This is pretty much what I expect for awhile though, capable of beating anyone, capable of losing to anyone/totally collapsing against a good team. Larry Drew was completely and totally worthless tonight. They'll gain experience and consistency I am sure, but WOW just total shit play at PG tonight.

I think I jinxed the Big East. They started out 40-0 (if I am not mistaken), but have lost their last 2! Luckily, I was smart enough to do it at a time when WVU was not playing. :)

BTW, welcome back NCAA basketball -- it is great to have some college games on, really regardless of the matchups, during boring TV nights.

Every BCS conference has played mostly stiffs, and none of the others are undefeated.

The Pac-10 did not make it past the first game of the season, when their marquee team played a stiff at home.The Pac-10 has a marquee team this year? :p (Once I figured out it was UCLA it seemed a little silly - are Georgetown and St. Johns still considered marquee Big East teams even though they were predicted mid-pack since they had past success, or Indiana a marquee B10 team?)

Sorry for the dickish tone in my last one. I just know BE defenders are going to be throwing that out there in discussions for the last at-large berths vs. teams like St. Joseph's and Xavier, when each team should be judged on its merits - instead of BE teams 8-11 getting credit (other than the obvious RPI and SOS bumps) for other teams being decent while A-10 teams 2-4 are torn down by association with St. Bonaventure, Fordham and sadly, UMass this year. (shocklingly enough 8 freshmen/transfers in the rotation, the DDM and no Calipari to lure 5* recruits is a bad combination.)

The Pac-10 has a marquee team this year? :p (Once I figured out it was UCLA it seemed a little silly - are Georgetown and St. Johns still considered marquee Big East teams even though they were predicted mid-pack since they had past success, or Indiana a marquee B10 team?)

Sorry for the dickish tone in my last one. I just know BE defenders are going to be throwing that out there in discussions for the last at-large berths vs. teams like St. Joseph's and Xavier, when each team should be judged on its merits - instead of BE teams 8-11 getting credit (other than the obvious RPI and SOS bumps) for other teams being decent while A-10 teams 2-4 are torn down by association with St. Bonaventure, Fordham and sadly, UMass this year. (shocklingly enough 8 freshmen/transfers in the rotation, the DDM and no Calipari to lure 5* recruits is a bad combination.)

BishopMVP, see Final Four, circa 2006-08.

BTW, the team this year is certainly not all that good. But if you're going to be a hater, at least don't prove your ignorance at the same time.

Seriously, if you are going to bag on programs that are living in the past and suck now I'm not sure how you don't mention Indiana.

Boston University Terriers 71
Indiana University 67

BishopMVP, see Final Four, circa 2006-08.

BTW, the team this year is certainly not all that good. But if you're going to be a hater, at least don't prove your ignorance at the same time.I'm not an idiot, I just think it's silly to call UCLA the PAC-10's marquee program in their down year, especially when the point could have been proven by one of the two marquee teams (Cal) getting smoked by Syracuse.Seriously, if you are going to bag on programs that are living in the past and suck now I'm not sure how you don't mention Indiana.

Boston University Terriers 71
Indiana University 67Ummm.... I did? (Although I do think Crean will have them back in contention for an at-large by next year.)

Hmm, I guess I'm reading impaired? You sure you did not add them in the last edit?

Although, to be honest, I was just looking for a hook to add that Boston score to this thread :lol:

Seriously, if you are going to bag on programs that are living in the past and suck now I'm not sure how you don't mention Indiana.

Boston University Terriers 71
Indiana University 67

Indiana is bringing in some serious talent but yeah they're not good right now. With the kids they have though right now I think they will continue to improve and be a pest in Big 10 play.

Also, homer alert, but Manny Harris and ugh, yes even Evan Turner (damn Buckeyes) are two of the best players in the Nation. Cannot wait to see them go one on one again.

I'm not an idiot, I just think it's silly to call UCLA the PAC-10's marquee program in their down year, especially when the point could have been proven by one of the two marquee teams (Cal) getting smoked by Syracuse.Ummm.... I did? (Although I do think Crean will have them back in contention for an at-large by next year.)

I think then the issue is the definition of "marquee program".

This term is not used for "best team this year." It's a statement about the general strength of the program, and in this specific instance, how it stands against other programs in its conference.

IMO, that is the more accepted understanding of what "marquee" means, not what you believe it is. And under that definition, it's hard to argue that UCLA is not the Pac 10's marquee program. Putting aside all of the historical reasons this is true and only looking at recent history, there's really only three teams with a claim, and that's UCLA-Arizona-Washington. Arizona has largely been behind UCLA for most of Howland's tenure, and Washington has been the closer competitor (in fact, last year and this year, UDub is the top program, although I don't that makes it the "marquee"; it's going to take more time than that).

Frankly, I'm not sure how you read "marquee" the way you did. I haven't seen anyone read so tight a definition of the term in the way you chose to. It's similar to "prestigious" in my mind. You don't use one season (and actually predictions for that season, really) to describe a program as the "most prestigious". That's an argument that takes years to build.

It's the same with marquee, IMO.

Last couple of days have been very telling for a couple of Big 12 teams. Kansas State has been really struggling on the defensive end and looked horrible against Old Miss.

Oklahoma is also quickly finding out what happens when you lose an elite post player and are forced to rely on the outside shot. They went 5-26 from three point range and lost to a VCU team by double digits.

It'll be interesting to see how the Big 12 sorts itself out considering many think they are one of the deepest conferences in the nation.

OU and KSU will be fine. If you look at OU you'll notice they were strong inside. Their guards were abysmal from beyond the arc, but I don't think you're going to see that very often with a guy like Willie Warren.

Miss just ripped KSU up on the offensive end. Surprising given Martin's squads are usually very physical and solid on defense ala Huggins' squads. They have to feel good about the production of Curtis Kelly and Wally Judge.

Nebraska put up 90 on TCU. I don't know if TCU is that bad or NU just got hot since it's rare to see Sadler's NU squads put up that many points. Sadler's a very good coach, but just can't seem to pull in the recruits at NU.

Last couple of days have been very telling for a couple of Big 12 teams. Kansas State has been really struggling on the defensive end and looked horrible against Old Miss.

Oklahoma is also quickly finding out what happens when you lose an elite post player and are forced to rely on the outside shot. They went 5-26 from three point range and lost to a VCU team by double digits.

It'll be interesting to see how the Big 12 sorts itself out considering many think they are one of the deepest conferences in the nation.

Nebraska put up 90 on TCU. I don't know if TCU is that bad or NU just got hot since it's rare to see Sadler's NU squads put up that many points. Sadler's a very good coach, but just can't seem to pull in the recruits at NU.

Nebraska's extremely inconsistant. That win was needed just to save face following that abysmal loss the game before to SLU, who doesn't start a single upperclassman. They're definitely a bottom 3 team in this league.

OU and KSU will be fine. If you look at OU you'll notice they were strong inside. Their guards were abysmal from beyond the arc, but I don't think you're going to see that very often with a guy like Willie Warren.

It was an embarrassing loss for the Big 12. There's very few ways to sugar coat it.

Who the f is Texas Pan American?

Who the f is Texas Pan American?

I don't care who you're playing. If you lay a 46-5 run on a team as Mizzou did today, it's very impressive. That game looked like a scrimmage against a high school team at times.

Bowers is becoming a regular on ESPN's top 10 thus far. He had two more sick dunks today. He's an amazing athlete.

After a close win over George Mason, Villanova makes a solid early season statement by playing two great games against Dayton and Ole Miss to win the Puerto Rico Shootout.

Still a long way to go, but it's a nice way to start out the nonconference part of the season.

Oooooooooooh yeahhhhhhhhhhh

It's definitely nice to already have two blowout neutral-site wins against ranked teams. I doubt anyone else in the country has that yet.

That game looked like a scrimmage against a high school team at times.

Considering that Tx-Pan Am was #333 of 347 teams in Sagarin's end of season ratings last year & about the same so far this year, I think there's a pretty good reason it looked like that, it wasn't far from it.

I don't care who you're playing. If you lay a 46-5 run on a team as Mizzou did today, it's very impressive. That game looked like a scrimmage against a high school team at times.

Bowers is becoming a regular on ESPN's top 10 thus far. He had two more sick dunks today. He's an amazing athlete.
The 45-6 run also included a 28-0 run. Yeah, it's a horrible team but those numbers are sick, especially considering that JT Tiller didn't play. Kim English scored 25 and I don't think he even started since they are limiting his action after he hit his head on the floor.

I think Mike Anderson has achieved his goal: He has recreated Nolan Richardson's Arkansas team at Missouri. Do we have Scotty Thurman and Corliss Williamson yet? Remains to be seen.

Is Steve Moore looking better? Was reading today about how he's dropped 40 pounds from last year. His weight definitely hurt him last year.

KSU just beat a top 25 school in Dayton. You were saying about KSU?

OU had a bad game. It happens. It happens especially when you're relying on young players as the Sooners are this year. Their best players are sophomores or freshmen.

Yes, NU is extremely inconsistent. Sadler hasn't been able to recruit the talent he'd like to NU, but he has them playing solid basketball. They beat two quality teams in Texas and Missouri last year. Sadler's teams play some ugly basketball, but they have a tendency to force other teams to play ugly basketball as well when they are in Lincoln thus giving them an opportunity to win. They definitely don't have the talent that the other Big 12 north squads minus CU have, but Sadler finds a way to win games at home. So I won't lock them in as a cellar dweller just yet.

Speaking of the Big 12, Iowa State seems to be playing well. I don't know that you could call them a sleeper given Brackins returning, but they could do some damage in the Big 12.

Nebraska's extremely inconsistant. That win was needed just to save face following that abysmal loss the game before to SLU, who doesn't start a single upperclassman. They're definitely a bottom 3 team in this league.

It was an embarrassing loss for the Big 12. There's very few ways to sugar coat it.

St. Mary's started 2-0, including a big win over San Diego St., but fell yesterday to Vandy in a close one. Aussie freshman guard Dellavedova is one to watch. I don't know that he's the next Patty Mills, but I saw him play a fair bit for our national team over the past few months and he's a heck of a player for a guy his age, great defender especially. Averaging 18.3 pts 3 rebs and 4.7 assists on .471 shooting over the first 3 games.

Mizzou's OOC schedule is pretty embarassing. Were all the NAIA schools taken when they put it together?

KSU just beat a top 25 school in Dayton. You were saying about KSU?

Ugh. Dayton's strength is usually defense and rebounding, but they got killed all tournament on the boards, and their perimeter defense against KSU's guards was awful. Those are some talented guys, but to have both KSU's starting guards go for over 20 was an embarrassment.

Disappointing not to pull 2 wins out of the tournament, but frankly after the Georgia Tech comeback, UD was lucky to get 1.

Mizzou's OOC schedule is pretty embarassing. Were all the NAIA schools taken when they put it together?

Not too sure about that. Got some pretty good competition in the non-con schedule. Old Dominion should be one of the better mid-majors. Mississippi State is a top 25 team. Illinois is expected to be very good. Oregon and Georgia aren't very good, but they're certainly big-conference teams. Tennessee-Chattanooga was a NCAA tourney team last year. Vanderbilt on the road should be a very good test.

FWIW.......the game yesterday against Pan American and the Tennessee-Chattanooga game are the preliminary round games of the South Padre Invitational. Coach Anderson prefers not to schedule teams quite that bad (Pan-American), but he didn't have any say in the matter in this situation.

Ugh. Dayton's strength is usually defense and rebounding, but they got killed all tournament on the boards, and their perimeter defense against KSU's guards was awful. Those are some talented guys, but to have both KSU's starting guards go for over 20 was an embarrassment.

Agreed. KSU isn't a very good team. Really disappointing to see Dayton lay an egg like that. They'll be fine in the end, but will look back on that game as one they should have easily won.

With that said, it doesn't hurt the B12 power rankings, so I won't complain. :)

College Basketball Hall of Fame inductions were held yesterday in Kansas City. Fans loved seeing Bird and Johnson together. Nice tribute by Tisdale's wife.

Tisdale article:

Oklahoma’s Tisdale helped change the Big Eight - KansasCity.com (http://www.kansascity.com/sports/story/1587384.html)

Bird/Johnson article:

It’s showtime when Bird and Magic are together - KansasCity.com (http://www.kansascity.com/sports/story/1587412.html)

Coach Heathcote article:

Heathcote still stays connected to the game - KansasCity.com (http://www.kansascity.com/sports/story/1587417.html)

Coach Bartow article:

Bartow not afraid to take on challenges - KansasCity.com (http://www.kansascity.com/sports/story/1587388.html)

Travis Grant article:

Travis Grant was basketball’s greatest scoring machine - KansasCity.com (http://www.kansascity.com/sports/story/1587366.html)

Bobby Knight falls asleep during ceremonies:

Hall of Fame buzz | Tisdale the musician - KansasCity.com (http://www.kansascity.com/sports/story/1587355.html)

The Pac-10 has a marquee team this year? :p (Once I figured out it was UCLA it seemed a little silly - are Georgetown and St. Johns still considered marquee Big East teams even though they were predicted mid-pack since they had past success, or Indiana a marquee B10 team?)

Given that UCLA has arguably the most success in both overall and recent history, that makes them the Pac-10's marquee team. It would take 10 straight final fours for someone to overcome everything UCLA brings to the marquee team argument.

I would indeed call Georgetown one of three Big East marquee teams (with SU and UConn) despite the fact that Villanova and Pitt have been more successful recently. But, I am old, younger folks may have no memory of Georgetown being a top 10 program.

And "marquee" does not mean "best team this year." The term stems from Broadway, where they put the biggest star's name on the marquee to get people to pay to come watch. In Pac-10 basketball, that is unquestionably UCLA. In Pac-10 football, its still USC, even if they finish fourth this year. Even in years where Oregon is clearly better, people pay more attention to what happens at UCLA. That's what makes them the marquee program.

I don't care who you're playing. If you lay a 46-5 run on a team as Mizzou did today, it's very impressive. That game looked like a scrimmage against a high school team at times.

Bowers is becoming a regular on ESPN's top 10 thus far. He had two more sick dunks today. He's an amazing athlete.

True.

KSU's guards are actually pretty solid and have put up some big numbers against some pretty good teams (Clemente put up 40+ against Texas, 30+ against Missouri, and 20+ against Kansas last year while Pullen put up 20+ against UT, KU, and MU). Dayton struggled in the tournament and are obviously out of the top 25 after it, but they played some pretty good squads. Barring some injuries KSU has a good shot of making the NCAA tourney.

Ugh. Dayton's strength is usually defense and rebounding, but they got killed all tournament on the boards, and their perimeter defense against KSU's guards was awful. Those are some talented guys, but to have both KSU's starting guards go for over 20 was an embarrassment.

Disappointing not to pull 2 wins out of the tournament, but frankly after the Georgia Tech comeback, UD was lucky to get 1.

I think you're going to be surprised by KSU. KSU beat MU and UT last year and they return their best players along with adding some athletic size in the front court. KSU is a good team. The loss to Mississippi surprised me, but it's understandable given Pullen and Clemente's struggles in the game. Either Mississippi played some great defense on KSU's guards or their shots just weren't falling. Either way it's a good win for Mississippi.

Agreed. KSU isn't a very good team. Really disappointing to see Dayton lay an egg like that. They'll be fine in the end, but will look back on that game as one they should have easily won.

With that said, it doesn't hurt the B12 power rankings, so I won't complain. :)

Colorado giving Gonzaga quite a game right now at the Maui Invitational. 63-63 with 5 minutes left.

Not too sure about that. Got some pretty good competition in the non-con schedule. Old Dominion should be one of the better mid-majors. Mississippi State is a top 25 team. Illinois is expected to be very good. Oregon and Georgia aren't very good, but they're certainly big-conference teams. Tennessee-Chattanooga was a NCAA tourney team last year. Vanderbilt on the road should be a very good test.

FWIW.......the game yesterday against Pan American and the Tennessee-Chattanooga game are the preliminary round games of the South Padre Invitational. Coach Anderson prefers not to schedule teams quite that bad (Pan-American), but he didn't have any say in the matter in this situation.
Arkansas-Pine Bluff, Farleigh Dickinson, Savannah State, UMKC and Austin Peay?

Arkansas-Pine Bluff, Farleigh Dickinson, Savannah State, UMKC and Austin Peay?

Let's not get crazy here. Everyone plays some cupcakes. Mizzou has plenty of good teams on their schedule. Outside of the mid-major teams that are forced to schedule big dogs in most non-conference games, most big conference teams usually have a half-and-half schedule much like Mizzou with some cupcakes mixed in with some solid opponents.

Gonzaga survives by 4 points over Colorado.

Purdue beats Tennessee by 1 in the Paradise Jam final. Wrong result but a darned good b'ball game for November.

Washington picks up a very intriguing commitment today from Turkish native Enes Kanter. He's a 6'9", 240lb frontcourt player, considered a pretty good athlete with high basketball IQ. He's considered one of the top big men in the 2010 class, and has been called the best player born in 1992 out of Europe.

He played some games in a professional Turkish league, so he may end up having to sit out some games pending the NCAA's ruling on the matter.

Texas picks up a solid 85-60 win over Iowa. Tomorrow's game against Pitt should be a good one.

Washington picks up a very intriguing commitment today from Turkish native Enes Kanter. He's a 6'9", 240lb frontcourt player, considered a pretty good athlete with high basketball IQ. He's considered one of the top big men in the 2010 class, and has been called the best player born in 1992 out of Europe.

He played some games in a professional Turkish league, so he may end up having to sit out some games pending the NCAA's ruling on the matter.

I have heard a lot of good things about him. I know Huggins and co. thought he was scholarship-worthy (in a year w/ limited scholarships available), but a lot of folks think he will have trouble gaining eligibility with all of the stupid, arbitrary NCAA rules.

In any case, he sounds like an NBA-prospect and, at worst, Washington loses nothing by trying to get him on-board.

I have heard a lot of good things about him. I know Huggins and co. thought he was scholarship-worthy (in a year w/ limited scholarships available), but a lot of folks think he will have trouble gaining eligibility with all of the stupid, arbitrary NCAA rules.

In any case, he sounds like an NBA-prospect and, at worst, Washington loses nothing by trying to get him on-board.

Yes, because playing on a club team overseas that has one guy getting paid to play is 10 times worse than directly receiving benefits from your AAU coach stateside.

Yes, because playing on a club team overseas that has one guy getting paid to play is 10 times worse than directly receiving benefits from your AAU coach stateside.

Preaching to the choir with this crowd, I imagine. Dragovic had to sit out ten games his freshman season because of that rule.

I don't know too much details about Kanter's professional experience, but the scuttlebutt on the UCLA sites on why they didn't target him is because they're not sure he will ever be eligible. Don't know how much there is to that.

Hmm, I guess I'm reading impaired? You sure you did not add them in the last edit?

Although, to be honest, I was just looking for a hook to add that Boston score to this thread :lol:I think I did add Indiana in an edit, although it lists my edit as a minute later, so you must have gotten in just in time.

I'll admit to being wrong on marquee, even if I do think the context (specifically the 2009-10 season) allows for more flexibility. (i.e. Indiana is still the marquee Big 10 program going forward, but this year they're not.)

Texas picks up a solid 85-60 win over Iowa.

Iowa's terrible, so that's no surprise.

Iowa's terrible, so that's no surprise.

The only surprise there was that it was a 38-38 game at halftime. Texas finally figured out they were supposed to play some defense in the second half.

Iowa should have never been there anyway. They actually lost both games in the preliminary rounds of this tournament, but they have a screwy rule where the host sites advance regardless of preliminary round results. The teams that beat Iowa would have put up a better fight.

Preaching to the choir with this crowd, I imagine. Dragovic had to sit out ten games his freshman season because of that rule.

I don't know too much details about Kanter's professional experience, but the scuttlebutt on the UCLA sites on why they didn't target him is because they're not sure he will ever be eligible. Don't know how much there is to that.
He certainly wasn't on the radar of the UW recruiting sites - this came out of the blue. From reading up on him, I'd be a little surprised if there were academic issues that would hold up his qualification - his father is a noted professor, and he turned down millions to play in Europe to come to the U.S. and get a quality education along with better preparation for the NBA.

On the other hand, the fact that he enrolled in and left two prep schools before landing at Stoneridge Prep is a red flag. And I've heard Stoneridge has a rep as a prep school of last resort.

We'll see. I have a lot of faith in Romar's judgment of character, so I'm optimistic there won't be any issues once Kanter is eligible to play. He may have to sit out some games per the NCAA due to playing on a team in Turkey that included some professional players, but the sense I'm getting is that it's unlikely to be a lot of games, if any.

He certainly wasn't on the radar of the UW recruiting sites - this came out of the blue. From reading up on him, I'd be a little surprised if there were academic issues that would hold up his qualification - his father is a noted professor, and he turned down millions to play in Europe to come to the U.S. and get a quality education along with better preparation for the NBA.

On the other hand, the fact that he enrolled in and left two prep schools before landing at Stoneridge Prep is a red flag. And I've heard Stoneridge has a rep as a prep school of last resort.

We'll see. I have a lot of faith in Romar's judgment of character, so I'm optimistic there won't be any issues once Kanter is eligible to play. He may have to sit out some games per the NCAA due to playing on a team in Turkey that included some professional players, but the sense I'm getting is that it's unlikely to be a lot of games, if any.

Deniz Kilicli is WVU recruit from Turkey currently sitting out 20 games for playing on a team that had 1 player being paid. I believe there are changes that come into effect next year that will make it easier for foreign players to play college ball here without sitting out games because of teammates receiving pay.

I believe there are changes that come into effect next year that will make it easier for foreign players to play college ball here without sitting out games because of teammates receiving pay.
Yep, that's what I was basing my assumptions on.

Currently, I believe the NCAA institutes a "one for one" punishment - sit out one game for every game played on a team with professionals. I'm not sure how many such games Kanter played, so I don't know what the maximum possible penalty would be, but it might all be moot soon.

Yep, that's what I was basing my assumptions on.

Currently, I believe the NCAA institutes a "one for one" punishment - sit out one game for every game played on a team with professionals. I'm not sure how many such games Kanter played, so I don't know what the maximum possible penalty would be, but it might all be moot soon.

I think it was 2 NCAA games for every 1 game played with a pro for Kilicli. It is such a silly standard. From what I have heard, he was playing with an amateur club team and a professional, that was working his way back into shape from an injury, joined his team for 10 games.

Mizzou continues to thump some opponents at home. Tennessee-Chattanooga is actually supposed to give Davidson a run for the conference title this year, but Mizzou just kicked them in the junk tonight. MU will be ridiculously difficult to beat when Kimmie English is shooting well.

Should get a couple of great neutral court tests over the weekend. Old Dominion returns all 5 starters from a 25-10 team. Then Mizzou would face either Richmond or Mississippi State after that.

The Big East picks up another win over a ranked opponent, with Cincinnati beating Maryland. Pitt and #3 Texas look pretty evenly matched early on.

Cuse looking Final 4 good.

Rutgers might have their worst team in some time this year, and that is saying something, but one of their fans has a good sense of humor about it. Quoted from some Rutgers board I was checking out:

Re: VERMONT @ PROVIDENCE tonight 7PM at the Dunk
even better....

we lose to VT by 6
Prov beats VT by 40
Ala beats Prov by 9
Cornell beats Ala by 4
Syracuse beats Cornell by 15


Equals Syracuse over Rutgers by 74

But since it is at the RAC and Syracuse fans will probably outnumber us I'd ADD 5. Syracuse by 79.