The Valparaiso Beacons Fan Zone Forum

Quote from: bbtds on October 31, 2016, 11:02:08 AMInteresting talksalot intro. Nice!

Quote from: Kyle321n on October 31, 2016, 01:27:11 PM
This is great you guys!

Any way you guys could create feed on iTunes? I think it would help drive subscribers and listeners and it'd be easy for someone like me who keeps all their podcasts in one nice a neat location. It would be awesome for me to go from the FiveThirtyEight Podcast to the Jonah Keri Show to Union Street Hoops with the click of a button.

Quote from: Pgmado on October 31, 2016, 01:34:33 PMThis is definitely something I'd like to do. The "pay the bills" side of the equation is that having the podcast on NWI.com helps drive people to the site. Hosting on iTunes brings awareness to the site, but doesn't get people there. It's something I'm hoping to work past eventually.

Quote from: agibson on November 01, 2016, 10:05:03 AM
Former players should be priorities! Would be great to hear from Vashil, EVic, etc.

Or in the off-season could delve further back into the catalog. Buggs is coaching now, etc.

Quote from: bbtds on November 01, 2016, 10:48:42 AMAlmost just as interesting would be former opposition players. After his sister graduates it would be interesting to see if Evan Bruinsma's view of Valpo changed a great deal.

Quote from: Pgmado on November 07, 2016, 03:40:18 PM
Union Street Hoops is now available on iTunes as well as NWI.com.

Quote from: ValpoFan on November 08, 2016, 02:58:58 PM
I have an android phone. Is there an easy way to get the podcast?
Searching for union street hoops on nwi.com doesn't return any results.

Quote from: ValpoFan on November 08, 2016, 02:58:58 PM
I have an android phone. Is there an easy way to get the podcast?
Searching for union street hoops on nwi.com doesn't return any results.

Quote from: FWalum on November 10, 2016, 09:48:38 AM
Interesting story about the Southern Utah Championship game.  Expounding on that a little bit, Homer had a punishment, or should I say consequence, for any team or staff member that was caught swearing.  When we later went into the locker room he apologized for his indiscretion and said that he would be punishing himself for his innapropriate behavior.

Quote from: ValpoFan on November 14, 2016, 05:57:31 PM
Episode 3?

Quote from: oklahomamick on November 22, 2016, 01:57:36 PM
episode 4?

Quote from: Pgmado on November 27, 2016, 10:49:54 AM
Episode 4 is up. Had the chance to meet up with former Valpo player/coach Jake Diebler. Some great stories in here.

http://www.nwitimes.com/digital/audio/union-street-hoops/podcast-union-street-hoops-episode/audio_4a5a1aaa-b23d-11e6-8a17-63ff56be9d22.html

Quote from: bbtds on November 29, 2016, 02:03:28 PMColumbia River Gorge
(listen to the podcast to find out why I posted this pic.)

Quote from: bbtds on November 29, 2016, 02:03:28 PM
(https://cdn.getyourguide.com/img/tour_img-153221-145.jpg)


Columbia River Gorge
(listen to the podcast to find out why I posted this pic.)

Quote from: covufan on November 29, 2016, 03:40:29 PM
Special guest for 5b = winner, winner chicken dinner?

Quote from: agibson on November 29, 2016, 10:42:15 PM

Quote from: covufan on November 29, 2016, 03:40:29 PM
Special guest for 5b = winner, winner chicken dinner?

Yeah, where do you go for fried chicken in Valpo? Adam does seem to have a fondness for KFC.

It does smell good from Eastgate, now and then...

There are the wings at Shoes, but wings != fried chicken.

Quote from: talksalot on November 30, 2016, 07:40:13 PMOther notables seen around the ARC recently?   Kevin Mackey?  Joey Meier?

Quote from: oklahomamick on December 07, 2016, 07:06:37 AM
But this might be the only chance in their VU career to rush the court.  Go for it.

Quote from: justducky on December 07, 2016, 09:51:06 AM

Quote from: talksalot on November 30, 2016, 07:40:13 PMOther notables seen around the ARC recently?   Kevin Mackey?  Joey Meier?

And Mackey would be scouting for who?

Quote from: justducky on December 07, 2016, 09:51:06 AM

Quote from: talksalot on November 30, 2016, 07:40:13 PMOther notables seen around the ARC recently?   Kevin Mackey?  Joey Meier?

And Mackey would be scouting for who?

Quote from: chef on December 27, 2016, 11:05:27 PM
great stuff...said they've followed Valpo basketball for six years. Thus they're likely former students who graduated a couple of years ago. Perhaps a VU2014.

Quote from: valpotx on January 06, 2017, 07:25:30 PMeven when we were losing to them.

Quote from: Pgmado on January 24, 2017, 03:05:27 PM
https://twitter.com/NWIOren/status/823997764161994752

Parker and I breakdown some of the biggest games of Peters' career. Any other games stand out for you?

Quote from: oklahomamick on January 24, 2017, 04:48:13 PMWhere is the link to 14? 

Quote from: oklahomamick on January 24, 2017, 04:48:13 PM
Where is the link to 14? 

Quote from: oklahomamick on January 24, 2017, 04:48:13 PM
Where is the link to 14? 

Quote from: SanityLost17 on January 30, 2017, 06:04:59 PMEveryone is complaining about attendance.  This week's podcast spoke about it for 20 minutes and referenced the last 4 years a lot.   The problem is simple.  LACK OF SATURDAY NIGHT GAMES. I usually go to 5 or 6 games a year.   I have been to 1 this year. ESPN3 is killing attendance with these stupid Friday/Sunday games.   We have not had a Saturday night conference home game yet.  What the hell is that about??! This leads to a domino effect.  Once you start making it hard for people to make it to a game, they eventually stop even considering it.

Quote from: VUBBFan on January 30, 2017, 11:06:48 PM

Quote from: SanityLost17 on January 30, 2017, 06:04:59 PMEveryone is complaining about attendance.  This week's podcast spoke about it for 20 minutes and referenced the last 4 years a lot.   The problem is simple.  LACK OF SATURDAY NIGHT GAMES. I usually go to 5 or 6 games a year.   I have been to 1 this year. ESPN3 is killing attendance with these stupid Friday/Sunday games.   We have not had a Saturday night conference home game yet.  What the hell is that about??! This leads to a domino effect.  Once you start making it hard for people to make it to a game, they eventually stop even considering it.

It's a lot more than not having Saturday games. This current crop of students ( outside of the 25-35 diehards) just have no interest or enthusiasm for the games. That would be alright for a losing team but is just sad for a top notch team with a lot of upside. The student section for a 1st place conference team should be packed rattling the rafters. The games in the past have been a coming out party for the fans to interact, go crazy and have fun doing outrageous things with colorful signs and costumes. A few years ago the Fan Zone was packed with face painted caped rabid fans making Videos, skits, noise and mayhem, cheering on lesser teams while having a great time interacting with each other. What has happened to lead to this state of apathy? Maybe there just isn't any student leadership to rally people together as there has been in the past. When I was a student being at the event was sometimes more of a fellowship with colleagues and acquaintances than the game itself. This should be a time of letting yourself go and having fun. I hope we can get back to filling the stands with at least a little enthusiasm. As it stands now this is an embarrassment to the University.

Quote from: SanityLost17 on January 30, 2017, 06:04:59 PM
Everyone is complaining about attendance.  This week's podcast spoke about it for 20 minutes and referenced the last 4 years a lot.   The problem is simple.  LACK OF SATURDAY NIGHT GAMES.     

I usually go to 5 or 6 games a year.   I have been to 1 this year.

ESPN3 is killing attendance with these stupid Friday/Sunday games.   We have not had a Saturday night conference home game yet.  What the hell is that about??! 

This leads to a domino effect.  Once you start making it hard for people to make it to a game, they eventually stop even considering it. 

QuoteI have to ask, if you're able to go to Saturday night games, how does that make it different from Sunday matinee games?

Quote from: a3uge on January 30, 2017, 11:26:20 PM

Quote from: VUBBFan on January 30, 2017, 11:06:48 PM

Quote from: SanityLost17 on January 30, 2017, 06:04:59 PMEveryone is complaining about attendance.  This week's podcast spoke about it for 20 minutes and referenced the last 4 years a lot.   The problem is simple.  LACK OF SATURDAY NIGHT GAMES. I usually go to 5 or 6 games a year.   I have been to 1 this year. ESPN3 is killing attendance with these stupid Friday/Sunday games.   We have not had a Saturday night conference home game yet.  What the hell is that about??! This leads to a domino effect.  Once you start making it hard for people to make it to a game, they eventually stop even considering it.

It's a lot more than not having Saturday games. This current crop of students ( outside of the 25-35 diehards) just have no interest or enthusiasm for the games. That would be alright for a losing team but is just sad for a top notch team with a lot of upside. The student section for a 1st place conference team should be packed rattling the rafters. The games in the past have been a coming out party for the fans to interact, go crazy and have fun doing outrageous things with colorful signs and costumes. A few years ago the Fan Zone was packed with face painted caped rabid fans making Videos, skits, noise and mayhem, cheering on lesser teams while having a great time interacting with each other. What has happened to lead to this state of apathy? Maybe there just isn't any student leadership to rally people together as there has been in the past. When I was a student being at the event was sometimes more of a fellowship with colleagues and acquaintances than the game itself. This should be a time of letting yourself go and having fun. I hope we can get back to filling the stands with at least a little enthusiasm. As it stands now this is an embarrassment to the University.

It's disappointing, but can we stop throwing around the word "embarrassing"? We literally have a team in the conference that has a mural in place of students. UWM has an enrollment of over 27,000 and they're lucky to get 12 of them at a game.

Quote from: a3uge on January 30, 2017, 11:26:20 PMIt's disappointing, but can we stop throwing around the word "embarrassing"? We literally have a team in the conference that has a mural in place of students. UWM has an enrollment of over 27,000 and they're lucky to get 12 of them at a game.

Quote from: VUBBFan on January 30, 2017, 11:06:48 PM

Quote from: SanityLost17 on January 30, 2017, 06:04:59 PMEveryone is complaining about attendance.  This week's podcast spoke about it for 20 minutes and referenced the last 4 years a lot.   The problem is simple.  LACK OF SATURDAY NIGHT GAMES. I usually go to 5 or 6 games a year.   I have been to 1 this year. ESPN3 is killing attendance with these stupid Friday/Sunday games.   We have not had a Saturday night conference home game yet.  What the hell is that about??! This leads to a domino effect.  Once you start making it hard for people to make it to a game, they eventually stop even considering it.

It's a lot more than not having Saturday games. This current crop of students ( outside of the 25-35 diehards) just have no interest or enthusiasm for the games. That would be alright for a losing team but is just sad for a top notch team with a lot of upside. The student section for a 1st place conference team should be packed rattling the rafters. The games in the past have been a coming out party for the fans to interact, go crazy and have fun doing outrageous things with colorful signs and costumes. A few years ago the Fan Zone was packed with face painted caped rabid fans making Videos, skits, noise and mayhem, cheering on lesser teams while having a great time interacting with each other. What has happened to lead to this state of apathy? Maybe there just isn't any student leadership to rally people together as there has been in the past. When I was a student being at the event was sometimes more of a fellowship with colleagues and acquaintances than the game itself. This should be a time of letting yourself go and having fun. I hope we can get back to filling the stands with at least a little enthusiasm. As it stands now this is an embarrassment to the University.

Quote from: valpopal on January 31, 2017, 10:44:11 AM

Quote from: a3uge on January 30, 2017, 11:26:20 PM

Quote from: VUBBFan on January 30, 2017, 11:06:48 PM

Quote from: SanityLost17 on January 30, 2017, 06:04:59 PMEveryone is complaining about attendance.  This week's podcast spoke about it for 20 minutes and referenced the last 4 years a lot.   The problem is simple.  LACK OF SATURDAY NIGHT GAMES. I usually go to 5 or 6 games a year.   I have been to 1 this year. ESPN3 is killing attendance with these stupid Friday/Sunday games.   We have not had a Saturday night conference home game yet.  What the hell is that about??! This leads to a domino effect.  Once you start making it hard for people to make it to a game, they eventually stop even considering it.

It's a lot more than not having Saturday games. This current crop of students ( outside of the 25-35 diehards) just have no interest or enthusiasm for the games. That would be alright for a losing team but is just sad for a top notch team with a lot of upside. The student section for a 1st place conference team should be packed rattling the rafters. The games in the past have been a coming out party for the fans to interact, go crazy and have fun doing outrageous things with colorful signs and costumes. A few years ago the Fan Zone was packed with face painted caped rabid fans making Videos, skits, noise and mayhem, cheering on lesser teams while having a great time interacting with each other. What has happened to lead to this state of apathy? Maybe there just isn't any student leadership to rally people together as there has been in the past. When I was a student being at the event was sometimes more of a fellowship with colleagues and acquaintances than the game itself. This should be a time of letting yourself go and having fun. I hope we can get back to filling the stands with at least a little enthusiasm. As it stands now this is an embarrassment to the University.

It's disappointing, but can we stop throwing around the word "embarrassing"? We literally have a team in the conference that has a mural in place of students. UWM has an enrollment of over 27,000 and they're lucky to get 12 of them at a game.

I think most on this board do not set the bar so low as to compare with these other HL universities. Instead of these weak expectations, we prefer to aspire to comparisons with universities like (dare I say it) Butler, as we have done in the past.

Quote from: vu72 on February 01, 2017, 07:46:10 AM
I'm guessing the attendance issue is found across a lot of schools.  Last night I settled in the watch Dayton (tied for first place in the A-10) play at Fordham.  The announcers were kind, calling the Fordham gym "cozy" when in reality it is tiny, with a seating capacity of 3200. Still, with 8800 undergrads and a national tv game (CBS sports) you would expect a packed house. It didn't happen. Attendance?  2412.

QuoteMakes me think a little of Franklin House's sign (note on their menu?), which totally nailed me. "Better than you thought? Shame on you!". I had completely assumed, "Winnetka? New Trier? $$".

Quote from: VU2014 on February 02, 2017, 08:35:23 AMhttp://www.nwitimes.com/digital/audio/union-street-hoops/podcast-union-street-hoops-episode/audio_277e48b2-e8f7-11e6-9ae8-eb5a22d9410c.html

Quote from: VU2014 on February 02, 2017, 09:15:10 AMhttp://www.nwitimes.com/sports/college/valparaiso-university/vu-s-matt-lottich-and-milwaukee-s-todd-townsend-are/article_4790ab93-86f2-5f83-9858-0b419dcd7bdc.html

Quote from: VU2014 on February 07, 2017, 09:22:17 AMNWI Times reporter Paul Oren and Parker Gatewood rehash Valparaiso's trip to Wisconsin,

QuoteThe Mars Cheese Castle stop was stocking up for the Super Bowl munchies...

Quote from: VU2014 on February 08, 2017, 03:45:26 PM

QuoteThe Mars Cheese Castle stop was stocking up for the Super Bowl munchies...

Every time I drive up to Milwaukee I have to stop at Mars Cheese Castle and grab a 6-pack of Spotted Cow.

Quote from: oklahomamick on February 13, 2017, 10:10:35 AM
All of us will agree that Union Street hoops in awesome and does a great job.  The dialog and guests of been great. 

What special guest would you like to hear from? 

Mine would be:
1.  Carter
2.  MLB (as long as he answers the questions truthfully and avoids the PC treatment)
3.  Jubril
4.  Richie Edwards
5.  Rowdy

Quote from: oklahomamick on February 13, 2017, 10:10:35 AM
All of us will agree that Union Street hoops is awesome and does a great job.  The dialog and guests have been great. 

What special guest would you like to hear from? 

Mine would be:
1.  Carter
2.  MLB (as long as he answers the questions truthfully and avoids the PC treatment)
3.  Jubril
4.  Richie Edwards
5.  Rowdy   

Quote from: valpotx on February 11, 2017, 09:06:14 PM
Lubos is still awesome.  We have been fortunate to have many quality individuals on our team over time, and I think that our international players have been a key part of that aspect.  If you have no idea who Lubos is because you are a new/recent Valpo fan, I still place him in the top 4 players at Valpo (Peters, Bryce, Rowdy, Lubos).  Extremely underrated when you talk about best all-time in a Valpo uniform, and highly versatile.  He definitely has the most successful pro career of any Valpo basketball player, as he dominated the Spanish and Italian leagues for 14-15 years, and was the key Czech national player for his entire basketball career.  You can argue that Bryce had the most successful, but he only played 5-6 years of pro ball, and FC Barcelona and some of the teams that Lubos played on, could beat NBA teams.  Not to mention that there wasn't a better room to visit than Lubos and Kikas' dorm room at Berg.  Very friendly guys :).

Quote from: a3uge on February 13, 2017, 10:46:49 AM

Quote from: oklahomamick on February 13, 2017, 10:10:35 AM
All of us will agree that Union Street hoops in awesome and does a great job.  The dialog and guests of been great. 

What special guest would you like to hear from? 

Mine would be:
1.  Carter
2.  MLB (as long as he answers the questions truthfully and avoids the PC treatment)
3.  Jubril
4.  Richie Edwards
5.  Rowdy

U.

QuoteAll of us will agree that Union Street hoops is awesome and does a great job.  The dialog and guests have been great. 

What special guest would you like to hear from? 

Mine would be:
1.  Carter
2.  MLB (as long as he answers the questions truthfully and avoids the PC treatment)
3.  Jubril
4.  Richie Edwards
5.  Rowdy   

Quote from: wh on February 13, 2017, 11:44:59 AM

Quote from: valpotx on February 11, 2017, 09:06:14 PMLubos is still awesome.  We have been fortunate to have many quality individuals on our team over time, and I think that our international players have been a key part of that aspect.  If you have no idea who Lubos is because you are a new/recent Valpo fan, I still place him in the top 4 players at Valpo (Peters, Bryce, Rowdy, Lubos).  Extremely underrated when you talk about best all-time in a Valpo uniform, and highly versatile.  He definitely has the most successful pro career of any Valpo basketball player, as he dominated the Spanish and Italian leagues for 14-15 years, and was the key Czech national player for his entire basketball career.  You can argue that Bryce had the most successful, but he only played 5-6 years of pro ball, and FC Barcelona and some of the teams that Lubos played on, could beat NBA teams.  Not to mention that there wasn't a better room to visit than Lubos and Kikas' dorm room at Berg.  Very friendly guys :) .

I took the opportunity to say hello to Lubos at the game.  He expressed a little surprise that so many fans remembered him after 15 years.  He seemed to be enjoying the moment.

Quote from: crusaderjoe on February 13, 2017, 02:00:03 PM
During the halftime interview of Saturday night's YSU game, Lecrone made a statement that I found curious. I'm pretty much quoting here; he said: "It (the HL tournament location) takes us to Detroit more so we really are relying on their fan base (the Michigan HL schools) to help support that tournament, which is a good thing." 

Just simply ask Lecrone if the tournament is truly geographically "neutral", then why is the League relying on local fan bases to help support it?

Quote from: oklahomamick on February 13, 2017, 06:46:40 PM
Except Arch Madness is truly neutral. 

And they don't have so many bottom feeders year in and year out.

Quote from: M on February 16, 2017, 04:53:37 PM
Maybe it's not that Valpo needs out of the HL it's that the HL needs some new people in charge. Would that please the masses?

Quote from: talksalot on February 16, 2017, 04:47:35 PM
Oakland is on Spring Break?  Their Dorms are closing Friday afternoon.   I'm guessing they will have a decent turnout anyway.  Again, perfect scheduling by the HL... we were on break when we played them the first time.

Quote from: talksalot on February 16, 2017, 04:47:35 PMOakland is on Spring Break?  Their Dorms are closing Friday afternoon.   I'm guessing they will have a decent turnout anyway.  Again, perfect scheduling by the HL... we were on break when we played them the first time.

Quote from: VULB#62 on February 16, 2017, 06:26:42 PM

Quote from: talksalot on February 16, 2017, 04:47:35 PM
Oakland is on Spring Break?  Their Dorms are closing Friday afternoon.   I'm guessing they will have a decent turnout anyway.  Again, perfect scheduling by the HL... we were on break when we played them the first time.

But it is considered a commuter school, no?

Quote from: VU2014 on February 16, 2017, 04:44:06 PMI know I'm  but come on! It's a complete competitive advantage packing the stadium with their respective fanbases. I'm digging my heals in on that point because its a deal breaker for me. I was pissed about it when it happened and I'm still ticked about it. Yes it would be nice to have the Tourney here and I can see the merits of a Neutral Conference Tourney site but this will never be a truly Neutral site. Appreciate the Olympia Sports wanting us but thats a 2 way street for every other fanbase not named Detroit-Mercy and Oakland.

Quote from: bbtds on February 17, 2017, 02:38:43 AM

Quote from: VU2014 on February 16, 2017, 04:44:06 PMI know I'm  but come on! It's a complete competitive advantage packing the stadium with their respective fanbases. I'm digging my heals in on that point because its a deal breaker for me. I was pissed about it when it happened and I'm still ticked about it. Yes it would be nice to have the Tourney here and I can see the merits of a Neutral Conference Tourney site but this will never be a truly Neutral site. Appreciate the Olympia Sports wanting us but thats a 2 way street for every other fanbase not named Detroit-Mercy and Oakland.

So what is the result of your being pissed at the HL for holding their tournament in downtown Detroit (what you call the Motor City Dumpster Fire Tournament)?

Would it be better if the HL tournament was held on the south side of Chicago in a gym in the Englewood neighborhood? Valpo fans could pack the gym with it being within about 40 miles of Valpo. But that wouldn't happen would it?

The result of your being pissed at the HL is that Valpo will most likely not get an invite from the Missouri Valley or a better conference, the Valpo fans that attend the HL tournament in Detroit will enjoy themselves, Jon LeCrone will stay commissioner of the HL, and you will sit at home still pissed at the HL for ruining what you think is Valpo's "God given right" to have the HL tournament close to Valpo because Valpo has had the better teams over the last few years and have earned it.

Get over it! Go to the HL tournament in Detroit and cheer your team on. They need you to stop the sulking and support your team! I'll be in Detroit supporting Valpo wherever they play and enjoying myself. I've traveled there before and it's not the end of the world and not the horrible place that you want to think that Detroit is. Downtown Detroit IS enjoyable! Stop making excuses and find a way to get to Detroit, even if only on the weekend, and show Oakland and Detroit-Mercy fans what true fans will do for their team AND QUIT THE WHINING!!!!

Quote from: FieldGoodie05 on February 17, 2017, 06:29:12 AM

Quote from: bbtds on February 17, 2017, 02:38:43 AM

Quote from: VU2014 on February 16, 2017, 04:44:06 PMI know I'm  but come on! It's a complete competitive advantage packing the stadium with their respective fanbases. I'm digging my heals in on that point because its a deal breaker for me. I was pissed about it when it happened and I'm still ticked about it. Yes it would be nice to have the Tourney here and I can see the merits of a Neutral Conference Tourney site but this will never be a truly Neutral site. Appreciate the Olympia Sports wanting us but thats a 2 way street for every other fanbase not named Detroit-Mercy and Oakland.

So what is the result of your being pissed at the HL for holding their tournament in downtown Detroit (what you call the Motor City Dumpster Fire Tournament)?

Would it be better if the HL tournament was held on the south side of Chicago in a gym in the Englewood neighborhood? Valpo fans could pack the gym with it being within about 40 miles of Valpo. But that wouldn't happen would it?

The result of your being pissed at the HL is that Valpo will most likely not get an invite from the Missouri Valley or a better conference, the Valpo fans that attend the HL tournament in Detroit will enjoy themselves, Jon LeCrone will stay commissioner of the HL, and you will sit at home still pissed at the HL for ruining what you think is Valpo's "God given right" to have the HL tournament close to Valpo because Valpo has had the better teams over the last few years and have earned it.

Get over it! Go to the HL tournament in Detroit and cheer your team on. They need you to stop the sulking and support your team! I'll be in Detroit supporting Valpo wherever they play and enjoying myself. I've traveled there before and it's not the end of the world and not the horrible place that you want to think that Detroit is. Downtown Detroit IS enjoyable! Stop making excuses and find a way to get to Detroit, even if only on the weekend, and show Oakland and Detroit-Mercy fans what true fans will do for their team AND QUIT THE WHINING!!!!

BBTSDQYR you know nothing if you compare Downtown Detroit to Englewood.  You are officially my nemesis on this forum...."Newwwwwwman".

Quote from: FieldGoodie05 on February 17, 2017, 06:29:12 AMBBTSDQYR you know nothing if you compare Downtown Detroit to Englewood.  You are officially my nemesis on this forum...."Newwwwwwman".

Quote from: FieldGoodie05 on February 17, 2017, 06:32:16 AM...And my silly ___ should have read the rest of your message.  Glad I could be the dumb____ this AM.  I'm still searching for a nemesis....OKmick, you in?

QuoteIf you're going to have a neutral site tournament, fine. Have semis and final on a weekend, period, end of story. Logistics, ESPN aside, tough to ask people to give up half a work week to attend a basketball tournament.

Quote from: VU2014 on February 17, 2017, 09:48:10 AM
You don't think hosting it in Chicago would have a greater impact on attendance for Valpo fans?

It definitely would. There is a huge alumni/student base settle and from the Chicagoland as compared to Detroit. It's an hour drive as opposed to 4 hrs. That is much less of a commitment to attend games.

The Horizon League Tournament could even be hosted in Rosemont (just outside Chicago, near O'Hare) at the AllState Arena. Rosemont has a pretty nice entertainment/hotel district surrounding it and its right off the highway. That's just one possibility. Or it could be hosted in Indy. Although Olympia Sports wanted the Horizon League and we've made the commitment so its all a moot point now.

In the post I mentioned there are merits to have a "neutral site" conference tournament. I'm not opposed to the neutral site. And give me a break, the MVC Conference is not going to base their decision on giving an invite to Valpo based on fan displeasure of the Tournament. There are so many other more important factors. To fans who are going I hope they enjoy the experience. I can't make it this season because I'll be out of town but I will definitely be going next season regardless if we are competitive or not. I would like to experience the Conf Tourney (and the new Joe Louis Arena should be nice).

I completely acknowledge that post was "whiny" (I'll try and tamp it down). More frustrated with leadership of the HL. 

Quote from: NativeCheesehead on February 17, 2017, 10:10:01 AMLogistics, ESPN aside, tough to ask people to give up half a work week to attend a basketball tournament.

QuoteThe question was not if more Valpo fans would attend in Rosemont, IL. The question was would more Valpo fans attend the HL tournament in Englewood (the murder capital of Chicago's Southside). I was comparing downtown Detroit, 4 hours away, to Englewood in Chicago, 45 minutes away.

BTW, I have a customer in Englewood who I have visited after dark on the south side of Chicago.

QuoteThe dedicated fans around the NCAA find ways to attend NCAA tournament games farther away than 4 hours. You complain about the excuses students make yet you find ways not to attend HL tournament games with some fairly lame excuses. How many of you attended Mid+Con tournament games in Kansas City and Tulsa? Detroit is a lot closer than that. BTW. I'll be in Oakland County, MI tonight for the big match up with the Golden Grizzlies.

QuoteQuote (selected)
Maybe We can hope Chicago or the available All State Arena will bid for hosting the HL tourney now that DePaul is leaving for their own place downtown Chicago? Or would the HL look into DePaul's new arena availability? Decent transportation in/out of town, big city media exposure, lots to do downtown for fans, etc. And much closer for Green Bay, Milwaukee, UIC, Valpo. And
Kampe likes the city, and restaurants so given his apparent  influence maybe he likes the idea. 😉

Quote from: VU2014 on February 17, 2017, 12:56:32 PM

QuoteThe dedicated fans around the NCAA find ways to attend NCAA tournament games farther away than 4 hours. You complain about the excuses students make yet you find ways not to attend HL tournament games with some fairly lame excuses. How many of you attended Mid+Con tournament games in Kansas City and Tulsa? Detroit is a lot closer than that. BTW. I'll be in Oakland County, MI tonight for the big match up with the Golden Grizzlies.

We have to live in reality.

Feel free to continue to question my fandom to Valpo Basketball.

Quote from: VU2014 on February 17, 2017, 01:09:13 PM

QuoteQuote (selected)
Maybe We can hope Chicago or the available All State Arena will bid for hosting the HL tourney now that DePaul is leaving for their own place downtown Chicago? Or would the HL look into DePaul's new arena availability? Decent transportation in/out of town, big city media exposure, lots to do downtown for fans, etc. And much closer for Green Bay, Milwaukee, UIC, Valpo. And
Kampe likes the city, and restaurants so given his apparent  influence maybe he likes the idea. 😉

I forgot they were building the basketball arena downtown. It's suppose to be right next the McCormick Place and right off the South Shoreline Train, which would be at least easy transportation for our NWI fanbase. That would be interesting. It's suppose to be a 10,000 seat stadium which would be perfect capacity for a Horizon League size championship game. I think the bill for that stadium is going to be split between DePaul and the City, so I'm assuming the City would have some say of which events they'd like to be played there. We signed a 5 yr deal with Olympia Sports, so this is a hypothetical. 

Quote from: bbtds on February 17, 2017, 02:38:43 AMI'll be in Detroit supporting Valpo wherever they play and enjoying myself. I've traveled there before and it's not the end of the world and not the horrible place that you want to think that Detroit is. Downtown Detroit IS enjoyable!

Quote from: a3uge on March 02, 2017, 08:54:41 PM
I just listened to the podcast. I like Todd's idea of the tiebreakers being decided by RPI. I think the league needs to start propping up and encouraging good records in the non-conference season. I think voters should use out of conference results as well as in conference results when deciding on awards. Ultimately the strength of the league depends on the out-of-conference season. Playing well in conference has little to do with the overall success of the league.

The standards for the Horizon League seem to drop every year. I'm not sure how the coach of the year can have a plus 100 RPI and finish fourth place in a really weak conference.

I think it's hard to put anyone besides lottich as coach of the year. He had to deal with an All-American out for 10% of the year and hurt for another 20%. He lost a starter for the entire regular season and had to fill it with two freshmen. For God's sake he was playing a walk-on significant minutes towards the end of the season. He's still co won the league and the only reason why he didn't win the league outright is because Cody wichmann missed all three free throws at the end of a game. Valpo finished with the best overall record, the best RPI, and probably the best three out of conference wins. I thought it was a slam dunk with all the adversity he had.

Quote from: a3uge on March 02, 2017, 08:54:41 PM
I just listened to the podcast. I like Todd's idea of the tiebreakers being decided by RPI.

Quote from: Just Sayin on March 03, 2017, 06:02:08 AM

Quote from: a3uge on March 02, 2017, 08:54:41 PM
I just listened to the podcast. I like Todd's idea of the tiebreakers being decided by RPI.

I disagree. Head-to-head wins is the best first-step tie-breaker. Sorry, but if Valpo had beaten Oakland at home and away this year, many here would be singing a different tune and would argue that Valpo should go to the NIT if they lost in the conference tourney. If you can't beat the team you are tied with once during the season, you don't deserve to be ahead of them in any capacity, even with identical records.

QuoteThe standards for the Horizon League seem to drop every year. I'm not sure how the coach of the year can have a plus 100 RPI and finish fourth place in a really weak conference.

Quote from: VU2014 on March 03, 2017, 10:29:58 AMMy WAY to early guess  for next year Coach of the Year will be UIC's Steve McClain as long as UIC doesn't fall off the tracks and fall on their own faces next season. They have a below .500 record this season but they have a crazy amount of talent on that roster so they should be a competitive team with Dixson being ready for next season. Voters will look at the "improvement" in record and say wow McClain must have done a decent job.

Quote from: FWalum on March 03, 2017, 06:46:20 PM

Quote from: VU2014 on March 03, 2017, 10:29:58 AMMy WAY to early guess  for next year Coach of the Year will be UIC's Steve McClain as long as UIC doesn't fall off the tracks and fall on their own faces next season. They have a below .500 record this season but they have a crazy amount of talent on that roster so they should be a competitive team with Dixson being ready for next season. Voters will look at the "improvement" in record and say wow McClain must have done a decent job.

The problem I see coming for UIC is that chemistry could be an issue.  Dixson is not going to come back and put up 25 shots per game like he was doing last year.  You can bring in a lot of new pieces to the puzzle, but if they don't fit together you will never see the whole picture.  The Fort Wayne Mastodon's had that problem this year. Things started out great, but by the time conference came along things were not so hunky-dory in the locker room and suddenly you're 8-8, and the 6 seed in a conference you were suppose to win. 

I think we have been lucky through that last few years to have pretty good team chemistry.


perhaps luck or perhaps good player selection and good coaching.  Witness Lexus giving up a starter role to a freshman.  All went well and the experiment has concluded with the better player back as a starter.

Quoteperhaps luck or perhaps good player selection and good coaching.  Witness Lexus giving up a starter role to a freshman.  All went well and the experiment has concluded with the better player back as a starter.

Quote from: vu72 on March 23, 2017, 10:40:27 PM
Loved the predictions about starting lineups for next year.  Clearly, Lexus saw the handwriting on the wall regarding point guard play.  One thing overlooked was that not only is Joe Burton a highly recruited kid out of high school, he is (I'm pretty sure) the highest ranked player (ESPN) ever the play for Valpo.

Quote from: vu72 on March 23, 2017, 10:40:27 PM
Loved the predictions about starting lineups for next year.  Clearly, Lexus saw the handwriting on the wall regarding point guard play.  One thing overlooked was that not only is Joe Burton a highly recruited kid out of high school, he is (I'm pretty sure) the highest ranked player (ESPN) ever the play for Valpo.

Quote from: a3uge on March 23, 2017, 10:48:01 PM

Quote from: vu72 on March 23, 2017, 10:40:27 PM
Loved the predictions about starting lineups for next year.  Clearly, Lexus saw the handwriting on the wall regarding point guard play.  One thing overlooked was that not only is Joe Burton a highly recruited kid out of high school, he is (I'm pretty sure) the highest ranked player (ESPN) ever the play for Valpo.

Jay Harris would like a word.

After he's done chucking contested threes from near half court.

But seriously, Jay Harris was rated as a 93 from ESPN.

QuoteSo I'm wondering whether or not Parker Hazen may be the answer at the 4. Here is a kid who is athletic and has played inside for at least his senior year.  Can rebound and make moves around the basket. He is not a 3 at this point as he can't hit the 3 consistently.  So how about Bakari at he point, Tevonn at the 2, Joe Burton at the 3, J at the 5 and Parker at the 4?   Sounds good to me!  Wonder what a guy with a lot more experience like fwalum would think?

Quote from: FieldGoodie05 on March 23, 2017, 10:44:27 PM

Quote from: vu72 on March 23, 2017, 10:40:27 PMLoved the predictions about starting lineups for next year.  Clearly, Lexus saw the handwriting on the wall regarding point guard play.  One thing overlooked was that not only is Joe Burton a highly recruited kid out of high school, he is (I'm pretty sure) the highest ranked player (ESPN) ever the play for Valpo.

It appears to be the highest player rankings on one team. Burton 4* Bakari 3* Hazen 3* Smits 3* Bradford 2.5*

Quote from: FieldGoodie05 on March 25, 2017, 02:44:39 PM

Quote from: FieldGoodie05 on March 23, 2017, 10:44:27 PM

Quote from: vu72 on March 23, 2017, 10:40:27 PMLoved the predictions about starting lineups for next year.  Clearly, Lexus saw the handwriting on the wall regarding point guard play.  One thing overlooked was that not only is Joe Burton a highly recruited kid out of high school, he is (I'm pretty sure) the highest ranked player (ESPN) ever the play for Valpo.

It appears to be the highest player rankings on one team. Burton 4* Bakari 3* Hazen 3* Smits 3* Bradford 2.5*

So to take this a bit further, do these "rankings" translate to playing time for VU.  I like the projected starting lineup:

Bakari PG (3 star)
Walker SG (2 star)
Golder SF/G (2 star)
Burton SF/PF (4 star)
Sorolla C (2 star)

Starting lineups might mean heaviest minutes in this years lineup too.  So that leaves Smits (3 star), Hazen (3 star) and Bradford (2.5 star) to come off of the bench.  Who gets the most significant minutes of these guys?

Smits (~18 minutes)
Hazen (~15 minutes)
Bradford (~15 minutes)

This is of course speculation, but it lends well to a comment earlier that says we are going to be a solid deeper team this year.  But really only in talent and scholarship body count.  The %'s show we have a VERY young roster.

Freshmen experience with VU (5-7 players) - 54% of roster
Sophomore experience with VU (4 players) - 31% of roster
Junior experience with VU (0 players) - 0% of roster
Senior experience with VU (2 players) - 15% of roster

It will be a bumpy year in 2017/18, especially in non-conference.  The positives I see are the following:

1) The experience and speed at the G position is an improvement over 2016/17.  Losing lexus hurt, but we gain B1G speed and handling and I like Max Joseph getting more ball handling minutes.  Last year Max had to play "bigger" because of our limited depth at the 2-4 positions.  I don't want to overlook Max at the PG position in 2017/18.  Though he might be spelling Tevonn at times, though limited because he is our work horse for next year.

2) Center position, I am genuinely excited to see these (2) guys grow together.  We had glimpses last year of a formidable duo that I think will only improve.  Coach Gore will work his magic here.

Areas of concern:

1) PF position, not much to add here because many have already expressed concern here.

2) Defensive attitude / abilities.  I think this can only be developed, because we can't really say the carry over is going to happen this year.  We have good (G) defense out of Tevonn and Max.  But other than these (2) players, I don't know how our defense is going to look.  Sorolla needs growth defensively, but he had good flashes last year.  Smits needs his brain to catch up with his foot speed.

Quote from: a3uge on March 25, 2017, 02:57:40 PM

Quote from: FieldGoodie05 on March 25, 2017, 02:44:39 PM

Quote from: FieldGoodie05 on March 23, 2017, 10:44:27 PM

Quote from: vu72 on March 23, 2017, 10:40:27 PM

It will be a bumpy year in 2017/18, especially in non-conference.  The positives I see are the following:

1) The experience and speed at the G position is an improvement over 2016/17.  Losing lexus hurt, but we gain B1G speed and handling and I like Max Joseph getting more ball handling minutes.  Last year Max had to play "bigger" because of our limited depth at the 2-4 positions.  I don't want to overlook Max at the PG position in 2017/18.  Though he might be spelling Tevonn at times, though limited because he is our work horse for next year.

Max Joseph was 9th on the team in defensive rating. I thought the Illinois game showed how much of a liability he was when their guards would shoot right over him. He doesn't guard on the ball well either - had only .3 steals per game, which is terrible for a guard. He doesn't have the quickness like Lexus to recover from playing close on the ball.

Solid point, and in thinking from the ranking POV I guess he didn't have an efficient year.  My only concern with taking rankings from last year is that he appeared to play out of position for the majority of his minutes.  His sturdy nature had him and Kiser guarding bigger players.  But I get the speed concern if he guards PG or the SF position.

QuoteMy big concern for next year....... where will our scoring come from?     We are losing about 40 ppg in just 2 guys!

Quote from: valpo64 on March 25, 2017, 07:19:23 PM
My big concern for next year....... where will our scoring come from?     We are losing about 40 ppg in just 2 guys!

Quote from: SanityLost17 on March 26, 2017, 09:12:58 PM
If Kisser is a primary option next year, we are screwed, plain and simple.   

Quote from: FWalum on March 27, 2017, 09:39:14 AM

Quote from: valpo64 on March 25, 2017, 07:19:23 PM
My big concern for next year....... where will our scoring come from?     We are losing about 40 ppg in just 2 guys!

I think I am more concerned about where the rebounding will come from.

Quote from: talksalot on March 26, 2017, 08:26:29 AM
One word Kiser

Quote from: covufan on March 28, 2017, 07:44:00 PM

Quote from: talksalot on March 26, 2017, 08:26:29 AM
One word Kiser

Soze

Quote from: vu72 on March 24, 2017, 09:14:00 AM

Quote from: a3uge on March 23, 2017, 10:48:01 PM
Jay Harris would like a word.

After he's done chucking contested threes from near half court.

But seriously, Jay Harris was rated as a 93 from ESPN.

OK, you got me on the ESPN ranking--BUT, although Jay was rated a 93 and Joe an 86, Jay was NOT a top 100 player and was No. 22 at his position while Joe was rated No. 59 in his class and No. 15 at his position.  I'll take Joe!   ;)

Quote from: covufan on March 31, 2017, 11:22:05 AMFor those that have been following these great interviews, they have another number themed guest this week:

Quote from: agibson on March 31, 2017, 11:29:32 AM

Quote from: covufan on March 31, 2017, 11:22:05 AMFor those that have been following these great interviews, they have another number themed guest this week:

Nice! I'd seen on Twitter that Mark had volunteered. I'm a little surprised by Bryce, only because initially he seemed to really cut all public ties with the university, fan base, regional media, etc.

It'll be interesting to see how candid they're willing to be. And, I suppose, how much Paul (and Parker?) probe.

Quote from: agibson on March 31, 2017, 11:29:32 AM

Quote from: covufan on March 31, 2017, 11:22:05 AMFor those that have been following these great interviews, they have another number themed guest this week:

Nice! I'd seen on Twitter that Mark had volunteered. I'm a little surprised by Bryce, only because initially he seemed to really cut all public ties with the university, fan base, regional media, etc.

It'll be interesting to see how candid they're willing to be. And, I suppose, how much Paul (and Parker?) probe.

Quote from: VU2014 on March 31, 2017, 12:18:50 PM

Quote from: agibson on March 31, 2017, 11:29:32 AM

Quote from: covufan on March 31, 2017, 11:22:05 AMFor those that have been following these great interviews, they have another number themed guest this week:

Nice! I'd seen on Twitter that Mark had volunteered. I'm a little surprised by Bryce, only because initially he seemed to really cut all public ties with the university, fan base, regional media, etc.

It'll be interesting to see how candid they're willing to be. And, I suppose, how much Paul (and Parker?) probe.

I really hope they are candid in the interviews and don't give wishy-washy canned answers.

My Top 5 Questions for Mark Labarbera:

- What are the prospects of joining a new Conference? (ex: MVC) What the things standing in the way of getting an invite? What are the risk & rewards, etc. What are the overall thoughts on Conference Consolidation? How does it impact Valpo?

-What are the chances of an ARC renovation? Anything in the works? PARKING PARKING PARKING! When will the parking issue get fixed? How much would a liberal estimate for cost of a renovation be? Are we really considering selling naming rights? (I don't see a problem)

-What exactly happened with the David Skara situation? Did they really try and strong arm the staff. We all know the truth but I've never heard someone publicly address it.

-Thoughts on Bryce leaving for Vandy? How is the Lottich era going in his opinion? (I personally think the future is bright and liked the hire)

-What are the greatest challenges facing Valpo (other mid-majors also) in the future and how are we planning to meet those challenges?

Quote from: Pgmado on March 31, 2017, 12:30:06 PM

Quote from: VU2014 on March 31, 2017, 12:18:50 PM

Quote from: agibson on March 31, 2017, 11:29:32 AM

Quote from: covufan on March 31, 2017, 11:22:05 AMFor those that have been following these great interviews, they have another number themed guest this week:

Nice! I'd seen on Twitter that Mark had volunteered. I'm a little surprised by Bryce, only because initially he seemed to really cut all public ties with the university, fan base, regional media, etc.

It'll be interesting to see how candid they're willing to be. And, I suppose, how much Paul (and Parker?) probe.

I really hope they are candid in the interviews and don't give wishy-washy canned answers.

My Top 5 Questions for Mark Labarbera:

- What are the prospects of joining a new Conference? (ex: MVC) What the things standing in the way of getting an invite? What are the risk & rewards, etc. What are the overall thoughts on Conference Consolidation? How does it impact Valpo?

-What are the chances of an ARC renovation? Anything in the works? PARKING PARKING PARKING! When will the parking issue get fixed? How much would a liberal estimate for cost of a renovation be? Are we really considering selling naming rights? (I don't see a problem)

-What exactly happened with the David Skara situation? Did they really try and strong arm the staff. We all know the truth but I've never heard someone publicly address it.

-Thoughts on Bryce leaving for Vandy? How is the Lottich era going in his opinion? (I personally think the future is bright and liked the hire)

-What are the greatest challenges facing Valpo (other mid-majors also) in the future and how are we planning to meet those challenges?

I think you'll enjoy at least 80 percent of the interview.

Quote from: oklahomamick on March 31, 2017, 12:54:44 PM
Yes, Paul, thanks for putting all the extra work and effort into Union Street Hoops.  Great skillz!  (Time for you to get paid for it....start charging)

Quote from: oklahomamick on March 31, 2017, 12:54:44 PM
Yes, Paul, thanks for putting all the extra work and effort into Union Street Hoops.  Great skillz!  (Time for you to get paid for it....start charging)

Quote from: VU2014 on March 31, 2017, 12:18:50 PMPARKING PARKING PARKING! When will the parking issue get fixed?

Quote from: agibson on March 31, 2017, 03:56:11 PM

Quote from: VU2014 on March 31, 2017, 12:18:50 PMPARKING PARKING PARKING! When will the parking issue get fixed?

Is that a major concern for the fan base? I've grown to like the walk from the softball field well enough. But, I recognize that it's not for everyone.

Would "pay as you enter" parking be a significant bonus? What do the existing parking passes cost if you pro-rate them? Would people pay if we doubled that for a single game pass?

Do they need more ADA parking?

I don't think "more free parking closer to the ARC" is viable, unfortunately.

Quote from: FWalum on March 31, 2017, 06:27:57 PM
Union Street Hoops has really turned out to be MUST LISTEN programming! Excellent work!  :clap:

Along those lines, what would it take to get a Valpo coaches show going?? Would love to hear that on a weekly basis, something like what Todd is doing only about 20 minutes longer.  IPFW Mastodons do an hour program at our restaurant every Tuesday during the season and it is broadcast on the local ESPN affiliate. Mostly concentrates on the basketball teams, but other coaches are also occasional guests.

Quote from: VU2014 on March 31, 2017, 06:38:24 PM

Quote from: agibson on March 31, 2017, 03:56:11 PM

Quote from: VU2014 on March 31, 2017, 12:18:50 PMPARKING PARKING PARKING! When will the parking issue get fixed?

Is that a major concern for the fan base? I've grown to like the walk from the softball field well enough. But, I recognize that it's not for everyone.

Would "pay as you enter" parking be a significant bonus? What do the existing parking passes cost if you pro-rate them? Would people pay if we doubled that for a single game pass?

Do they need more ADA parking?

I don't think "more free parking closer to the ARC" is viable, unfortunately.

One scenario could be moving the Tiny Student Fitness Center and putting more parking in that spot.

I wish you could park on the streets like you use to. The City said you can no longer park on the streets by the ARC anymore. How did that come to be again? I remember reading somewhere that the city negotiated that with the University somewhere.

Quote from: VULB#62 on March 31, 2017, 07:08:05 PM
Uh, I think we need to build that recreation and athletics building on the Porter property to do that.  I'm all for that, BTW.

Quote from: VU2014 on March 31, 2017, 06:38:24 PM

Quote from: agibson on March 31, 2017, 03:56:11 PM

Quote from: VU2014 on March 31, 2017, 12:18:50 PMPARKING PARKING PARKING! When will the parking issue get fixed?

Is that a major concern for the fan base? I've grown to like the walk from the softball field well enough. But, I recognize that it's not for everyone.

Would "pay as you enter" parking be a significant bonus? What do the existing parking passes cost if you pro-rate them? Would people pay if we doubled that for a single game pass?

Do they need more ADA parking?

I don't think "more free parking closer to the ARC" is viable, unfortunately.

One scenario could be moving the Tiny Student Fitness Center and putting more parking in that spot.

I wish you could park on the streets like you use to. The City said you can no longer park on the streets by the ARC anymore. How did that come to be again? I remember reading somewhere that the city negotiated that with the University somewhere.

Quote from: oklahomamick on March 31, 2017, 04:04:30 PM
You do realize I don't mind paying a fee for listening to something I enjoy?  Paul puts work into it and he has a lot of talent.  Sounds like he should be rewarded.  No?

Quote from: bbtds on April 01, 2017, 06:15:22 PM

Quote from: oklahomamick on March 31, 2017, 04:04:30 PMYou do realize I don't mind paying a fee for listening to something I enjoy?  Paul puts work into it and he has a lot of talent.  Sounds like he should be rewarded.  No?

I think that is admirable that you would help get Paul paid for his show. Anyone else willing to pay $25/year for Union Street Hoops? I'm sure it isn't cheap.

Quote from: VU2014 on May 19, 2017, 10:24:52 AM
"Valparaiso associate head coach Luke Gore joins Union Street Hoops to talk about a variety of topics, including his upcoming Athletes in Action trip, recruiting and scheduling."

http://www.nwitimes.com/digital/audio/union-street-hoops/podcast-union-street-hoops-episode/audio_c87cace6-3ca2-11e7-b84b-67f5f10c808e.html

https://twitter.com/NWIOren/status/865586927747047424

Quote from: VU2014 on June 02, 2017, 06:17:34 PM
"Valparaiso basketball coach Matt Lottich and ESPN analysts Mark Adams join Union Street Hoops to discuss the Missouri Valley Conference, the 2017-18 season and the woes of scheduling as a mid-major program."

http://www.nwitimes.com/digital/audio/union-street-hoops/podcast-union-street-hoops-episode/audio_c0d3c7b6-47d5-11e7-874c-afc072e48d5f.html

https://twitter.com/NWIOren/status/870749780531699712

Quote from: Pgmado on June 10, 2017, 06:41:00 PM
http://www.nwitimes.com/digital/audio/union-street-hoops/podcast-union-street-hoops-episode/audio_74f0d004-4c59-11e7-a713-c7b599e3e3b8.html

Quote from: vu72 on June 10, 2017, 06:49:26 PM

Quote from: Pgmado on June 10, 2017, 06:41:00 PM
http://www.nwitimes.com/digital/audio/union-street-hoops/podcast-union-street-hoops-episode/audio_74f0d004-4c59-11e7-a713-c7b599e3e3b8.html

Great interview with Brandon Wood who is a really classy guy.  Probably one of the top pure scorers to ever where the brown and gold.  Also a good update from Alec.

Quote from: vu72 on June 10, 2017, 06:49:26 PM

Quote from: Pgmado on June 10, 2017, 06:41:00 PM
http://www.nwitimes.com/digital/audio/union-street-hoops/podcast-union-street-hoops-episode/audio_74f0d004-4c59-11e7-a713-c7b599e3e3b8.html

Great interview with Brandon Wood who is a really classy guy.  Probably one of the top pure scorers to ever where the brown and gold.  Also a good update from Alec.

Quote from: FieldGoodie05 on June 11, 2017, 06:08:13 AM

Quote from: vu72 on June 10, 2017, 06:49:26 PM

Quote from: Pgmado on June 10, 2017, 06:41:00 PM
http://www.nwitimes.com/digital/audio/union-street-hoops/podcast-union-street-hoops-episode/audio_74f0d004-4c59-11e7-a713-c7b599e3e3b8.html

Great interview with Brandon Wood who is a really classy guy.  Probably one of the top pure scorers to ever where the brown and gold.  Also a good update from Alec.

Excellent insight on the difficulty of pro-ball.  But can't help but come away with less respect for BW.  His bouncing around for "something better" is not a trait I look for in my own life.  It's certainly not unheard of, in fact millenials (of which I am, begrudgingly) are well known for just this.

Again, appreciative that PAUL brings on such great guests.  Regardless on my feeling of BW, he was an excellent guest.  Thanks PAUL.

Quote from: valpotx on May 20, 2017, 02:49:12 AMEric Hoffman is playing semi-pro football of some sort?  Pretty cool that Evan Turner was repping a Valpo shirt

Quote from: Grafton on June 27, 2017, 12:50:41 AM

Quote from: valpotx on May 20, 2017, 02:49:12 AMEric Hoffman is playing semi-pro football of some sort?  Pretty cool that Evan Turner was repping a Valpo shirt

I thought so too.

Quote from: VUGrad1314 on July 11, 2017, 01:33:26 AM
Will be awesome to hear what he's been up to. He was without question one of the best low post presences to put on a Valpo uniform in recent memory. Could even step out and hit jumpshots as well in addition to being a very solid rebounder and passer. Really good player.

Quote from: oklahomamick on July 13, 2017, 08:27:42 AM
Does anyone know what rowdy is doing state side?

Quote from: VU2014 on July 13, 2017, 08:40:14 AM

Quote from: oklahomamick on July 13, 2017, 08:27:42 AM
Does anyone know what rowdy is doing state side?

His girlfriend Katie is an American and went to Valparaiso also. If I had to guess they are visiting her family during his offseason.

Quote from: oklahomamick on August 15, 2017, 01:47:13 PMI wonder if some of our international guys will help recruit for Valpo? 

Quote from: oklahomamick on August 15, 2017, 01:47:13 PMI wonder which former player will be on our bench in a suit?

Quote from: justducky on August 15, 2017, 02:09:59 PM

Quote from: oklahomamick on August 15, 2017, 01:47:13 PMI wonder if some of our international guys will help recruit for Valpo? 

I hope so. After the Skara incident we could use some positive help just to get back to even!

Quote from: justducky on August 15, 2017, 02:09:59 PM

Quote from: oklahomamick on August 15, 2017, 01:47:13 PMI wonder which former player will be on our bench in a suit?

I have no clue but I think I can name one who will not. ::)

Quote from: bbtds on November 01, 2017, 06:56:55 PM
Listening to the latest podcast that Pgmado did on Union Street Hoops he talked about walking about St Louis and visiting different landmarks with one of them being Busch Stadium not far from the Scottrade Center. He said it was a nice stadium for a third place team. A team that finished behind the Milwaukee Brewers. That stadium he observed was built in 2006. In that 11 years since it was built that team that plays there have won 2 World Series. Even the lowly Cubs have won a World Series. The Milwaukee Brewers have won how many World Series?
ZERO, ZILCH, NADA!!!!!!!

And which team did they lose to in the 1982 World Series?

Quote from: a3uge on November 02, 2017, 05:57:57 AM
Man, is there a group of more sensitive, insecure people than Cardinals fans?

Quote from: VU2014 on November 02, 2017, 07:52:39 AM

Quote from: a3uge on November 02, 2017, 05:57:57 AM
Man, is there a group of more sensitive, insecure people than Cardinals fans?

Oakland fans  ;D

Quote from: a3uge on November 02, 2017, 05:57:57 AM

Quote from: bbtds on November 01, 2017, 06:56:55 PM
Listening to the latest podcast that Pgmado did on Union Street Hoops he talked about walking about St Louis and visiting different landmarks with one of them being Busch Stadium not far from the Scottrade Center. He said it was a nice stadium for a third place team. A team that finished behind the Milwaukee Brewers. That stadium he observed was built in 2006. In that 11 years since it was built that team that plays there have won 2 World Series. Even the lowly Cubs have won a World Series. The Milwaukee Brewers have won how many World Series?
ZERO, ZILCH, NADA!!!!!!!

And which team did they lose to in the 1982 World Series?

Man, is there a group of more sensitive, insecure people than Cardinals fans?

Quote from: bbtds on November 02, 2017, 11:56:11 AM

Quote from: a3uge on November 02, 2017, 05:57:57 AM

Quote from: bbtds on November 01, 2017, 06:56:55 PM
Listening to the latest podcast that Pgmado did on Union Street Hoops he talked about walking about St Louis and visiting different landmarks with one of them being Busch Stadium not far from the Scottrade Center. He said it was a nice stadium for a third place team. A team that finished behind the Milwaukee Brewers. That stadium he observed was built in 2006. In that 11 years since it was built that team that plays there have won 2 World Series. Even the lowly Cubs have won a World Series. The Milwaukee Brewers have won how many World Series?
ZERO, ZILCH, NADA!!!!!!!

And which team did they lose to in the 1982 World Series?

Man, is there a group of more sensitive, insecure people than Cardinals fans?

Brewers fans.

Quote from: vu72 on November 10, 2017, 06:42:48 PM
Very interesting discussion with Todd Ickow, who I hold in the highest regard relative to his extensive Valpo basketball knowledge.  So according to Todd, we have (potentially) the equivalent of Keith Carter, Casey Schmidt, Dan Oppland and Raitis Grafs.  That's as far as he got.  I'll take that four with Tevonn Walker, all the way to the Final four!!

Quote from: covufan on November 12, 2017, 03:23:02 PM

Quote from: vu72 on November 10, 2017, 06:42:48 PM
Very interesting discussion with Todd Ickow, who I hold in the highest regard relative to his extensive Valpo basketball knowledge.  So according to Todd, we have (potentially) the equivalent of Keith Carter, Casey Schmidt, Dan Oppland and Raitis Grafs.  That's as far as he got.  I'll take that four with Tevonn Walker, all the way to the Final four!!

This could be one of the most talented teams we've ever had at Valpo - Burton, Evelyn, Smits and Hazen are all three stars or above.  Next years team with the addition of two more three star players may be even more talented.

Quote from: a3uge on November 12, 2017, 05:44:17 PM

Quote from: covufan on November 12, 2017, 03:23:02 PM

Quote from: vu72 on November 10, 2017, 06:42:48 PM
Very interesting discussion with Todd Ickow, who I hold in the highest regard relative to his extensive Valpo basketball knowledge.  So according to Todd, we have (potentially) the equivalent of Keith Carter, Casey Schmidt, Dan Oppland and Raitis Grafs.  That's as far as he got.  I'll take that four with Tevonn Walker, all the way to the Final four!!

This could be one of the most talented teams we've ever had at Valpo - Burton, Evelyn, Smits and Hazen are all three stars or above.  Next years team with the addition of two more three star players may be even more talented.

Not sure I'd use Smits and Hazen as evidence of one of the most talented teams Valpo's ever had.

Quote from: VU2014 on November 12, 2017, 06:05:03 PM

Quote from: a3uge on November 12, 2017, 05:44:17 PM

Quote from: covufan on November 12, 2017, 03:23:02 PM

Quote from: vu72 on November 10, 2017, 06:42:48 PM
Very interesting discussion with Todd Ickow, who I hold in the highest regard relative to his extensive Valpo basketball knowledge.  So according to Todd, we have (potentially) the equivalent of Keith Carter, Casey Schmidt, Dan Oppland and Raitis Grafs.  That's as far as he got.  I'll take that four with Tevonn Walker, all the way to the Final four!!

This could be one of the most talented teams we've ever had at Valpo - Burton, Evelyn, Smits and Hazen are all three stars or above.  Next years team with the addition of two more three star players may be even more talented.

Not sure I'd use Smits and Hazen as evidence of one of the most talented teams Valpo's ever had.

I wouldn't say this is Valpo's best team either. I'd still take the 2012-2013 and 2015-2016 team over this team hands down. This team has proven anything yet besides that they are the most athletic team we've probably ever had. This team has a lot of raw young talent. There is still a lot of questions that need to be answered with this team. I'd agree this team has a lot of future potential though.

I'm excited but I'm still in "show me mode".

Quote from: wh on November 12, 2017, 07:09:16 PM
In fairness, covufan didn't say anything close to "this is Valpo's best team ever."  He simply stated that this could be one of the most talented teams in the program's history?  How can anyone dispute that?

Quote from: oklahomamick on November 12, 2017, 02:54:27 PM
Todd just getting excited before our first MVC season?  Respect him yes, but don't know if I agree with Todd on this one.  Still love Todd though.   

Quote from: Pgmado on November 02, 2017, 01:37:13 PM

Quote from: bbtds on November 02, 2017, 11:56:11 AM

Quote from: a3uge on November 02, 2017, 05:57:57 AM

Quote from: bbtds on November 01, 2017, 06:56:55 PM
Listening to the latest podcast that Pgmado did on Union Street Hoops he talked about walking about St Louis and visiting different landmarks with one of them being Busch Stadium not far from the Scottrade Center. He said it was a nice stadium for a third place team. A team that finished behind the Milwaukee Brewers. That stadium he observed was built in 2006. In that 11 years since it was built that team that plays there have won 2 World Series. Even the lowly Cubs have won a World Series. The Milwaukee Brewers have won how many World Series?
ZERO, ZILCH, NADA!!!!!!!

And which team did they lose to in the 1982 World Series?

Man, is there a group of more sensitive, insecure people than Cardinals fans?

Brewers fans.

I'm well aware our (Brewers fans) place in the pecking order, so I'm going to take, and enjoy, the shots when I can. The Cardinals are (or at least were before the hacking scandal) the gold standard for baseball franchises. St. Louis baseball is equivalent to Green Bay football. (Football is that sport played with pigskin and results in touchdowns in case St. Louis fans don't remember). St. Louis expects to make the playoffs every year in baseball and Green Bay expects every year in football. Much like Chicago/Detroit/Minnesota fans bask in the glory of a down Green Bay season the rare times they occur, I'm going to bask in the glory of a down St. Louis season. So again, nice stadium for a third place team!   

Quote from: valpotx on November 28, 2017, 11:58:08 PM
Another fantastic episode.  Dan Oppland was definitely one of my favorites, due to many of the points that Paul brought up.  I believe that Dan was something like a 49% FT shooter during his FR year.  His SO year was my last at Valpo, and every time we were running on the track at the ARC, Dan was shooting hundreds of FTs.  We had various two-a-days, which encompassed a very early morning run, and a night session.  Dan was there most of those times, shooting FTs.  I believe that he ended up a 75-80% FT shooter by his SR year?  That dude put in the work, and he played with an incredible motor. 

Quote from: justducky on December 08, 2017, 12:25:51 PM
The obvious question for Jim and CJ Peters wasn't even asked. Can we get an 18-19 rematch at Purdue with their seniors gone and our puzzle pieces all in place? If not why not?  ???

Quote from: VU2014 on December 08, 2017, 12:40:36 PMAnother good show, HOWEVER, Paul, when panning our lack of success versus Bigs on the road, included the fact that the Oregon State team we beat in 15-16 was TERRIBLE.  I beg to differ.  That team was 14-3 at home that season, finished 19-13 including wins over Oregon, Cal USC and others and went to the NCAAs.

Quote from: justducky on December 08, 2017, 12:25:51 PMThe obvious question for Jim and CJ Peters wasn't even asked. Can we get an 18-19 rematch at Purdue with their seniors gone and our puzzle pieces all in place? If not why not? 

Quote from: valpotx on December 09, 2017, 11:13:59 AM
Yeah, I was a bit befuddled that Paul mentioned that Oregon State was terrible that year.  Didn't give us any credit in mentioning it in that manner (playing up to the Purdue fans in-studio, perhaps?), yet they were one of the first teams out of the NCAA tourney for an at-large.  He also mentioned that Washington didn't have anything to play for in that game we won in the CBI, yet if you watched that game, you would not have said such a thing.  Brockman was OWNED by Bouchie, and it wasn't for a lack of caring that we beat them.  Yes, it wasn't their preferred tournament, but they did not at all look like they were just going through the motions.

Quote from: VU2014 on December 14, 2017, 03:11:34 PMFormer assistant coach and longtime Region high school coach Joe Otis talks about Valparaiso's unique connection to the 1977 plane crash involving the Evansville basketball program

Quote from: VU2014 on February 15, 2018, 08:25:35 PM
Some good conversation in this podcast about Paul's article that ruffled the UNI fan's feathers with the foul discrepancies lol. Paul says they're "touchy" like we are. I wouldn't call us "touchy" but we care and we're passionate. We're much more passionate then any fan-base in the Horizon League did. But some good convo about Paul's research.

They touch on Parker Hazen going from starting to not sniffing a minute. Some very interesting conversation here and Paul brought up maybe he might transfer and that's why he isn't getting any minutes, but Paul made it clear he hasn't heard that.

A great interview with Buggs talking about his career at Valpo and the struggles of his team's freshman year.

Quote from: valpospartan on February 15, 2018, 10:27:09 PMPaul, why doesn't The Times ever publish the MVC BB standings?

Quote from: VU2014 on February 15, 2018, 08:25:35 PM
Some good conversation in this podcast about Paul's article that ruffled the UNI fan's feathers with the foul discrepancies lol. Paul says they're "touchy" like we are. I wouldn't call us "touchy" but we care and we're passionate. We're much more passionate then any fan-base in the Horizon League did. But some good convo about Paul's research.

They touch on Parker Hazen going from starting to not sniffing a minute. Some very interesting conversation here and Paul brought up maybe he might transfer and that's why he isn't getting any minutes, but Paul made it clear he hasn't heard that.

A great interview with Buggs talking about his career at Valpo and the struggles of his team's freshman year.

Quote from: vu72 on February 16, 2018, 06:03:32 PM
I'm wondering whether or not this mysterious upper body injury will be healed before the end of the season.  If not, might the plan be to plead for a red-shirt given his very limited playing time up to the time of the "injury"?  ???

Quote from: NativeCheesehead on February 23, 2018, 05:07:23 PM
I think ml has done a really good job overall, but why do I feel like listening to this will just piss me off.

Quote from: VU2014 on February 23, 2018, 07:47:07 PM

Quote from: NativeCheesehead on February 23, 2018, 05:07:23 PM
I think ml has done a really good job overall, but why do I feel like listening to this will just piss me off.

Well worth the listen.

Quote from: valpopal on February 23, 2018, 08:10:46 PM
I like Mark a lot and think he has done a fine job, but I felt little more than frustration listening to this interview. This basketball season should have served as a wake-up call. However, I heard no concrete changes we can look forward to seeing in promotion, facilities, and attendance, student or overall. I have little optimism anything is going to change that will make the game experience more entertaining and enjoyable. When Mark said attendance was good early in the season but declined after a losing streak, I had to shake my head. The home attendance average for the five games played while Valpo was undefeated and building an 8-0 record was only 2617. I heard nothing in this interview that suggested we would see anything other than more of the same.

QuoteThere are exceptions such as Illinois St who at one time was voted as #1 party school.

Quote from: oklahomamick on February 26, 2018, 09:16:09 AM
Valpo needs to "cast a wider net" then most other MVC schools from a academic performance standpoint. It makes it tougher to recruit top talent.

That was certainly the case in the commuter school league known as the HL.  In the MVC, Bradley, Evansville, Loyola and Drake all have similar academic expectations.  There are exceptions such as Illinois St who at one time was voted as #1 party school. 

Quote from: zvillehaze on March 16, 2018, 05:21:43 PM
Not sure where to put this, but I'm glad the NWI Times sent pgmado to Detroit to cover Butler.  Appreciate his article and Tweets!   :thumbsup:

Quote from: Pgmado on March 16, 2018, 05:55:44 PM

Quote from: zvillehaze on March 16, 2018, 05:21:43 PM
Not sure where to put this, but I'm glad the NWI Times sent pgmado to Detroit to cover Butler.  Appreciate his article and Tweets!   :thumbsup:

I give Butler a lot grief...part of it is shtick, part of it is a general distaste for the smugness that is "The Butler Way," but hard not to appreciate what they've accomplished. I just wrote a series of stories on Valparaiso's 20-year anniversary of one first round win. Butler has won its last seven first round games. 

Quote from: VU2010 on March 20, 2018, 10:40:43 PM
Does Paul have the gall to ask the questions that need to be asked? Will Lottich answer questions with substance? Will we hear about the Parker situation? Why players would start but then not play? The now-routine suspensions? The push for renovations to the ARC? Ragland interviewing elsewhere? The need to boost interest? Incentivizations for students? Yes? No? Maybe? Or, more of trusting in the process. Time shall tell.

My only wish is that VU Admins would pay attention to what UMBC did. They invested in an $80+ million dollar athletics facility BEFORE making their post-season run! Then stole the hearts of millions who didn't even know they existed. Then used social media to promote their schools. And, even mentioned still needing a sponsor fir their new sports complex??????

Quote from: nkvu on March 21, 2018, 11:30:24 PM
I found coach's response to the question about calls interesting. His observation about players responding to his emotion i.e. if he starts complaining about calls his players pick up on that and start barking at the officials as well kind of explains his reluctance to do that. I can see that. At the same time it seems to me that a coach can instill in his players the rule that you don't complain to the officials, that's my job. Then show your players that you are willing to do that when it is warranted. Once you establish credibility then if you don't complain your players know to let it go and move on. Result would be the occasional tech on you as coach, fewer on your players.

But that's just a fan's opinion.

Quote from: VU2014 on April 12, 2018, 06:17:09 PM
Podcast: Union Street Hoops (Comings and Goings)

"Paul Oren and Parker Gatewood return to bring all the latest Valparaiso news, including the transfers of Parker Hazen and Marten Linssen, as well as the addition of Daniel Sackey."

http://www.nwitimes.com/sports/college/valparaiso-university/podcast-union-street-hoops-comings-and-goings/article_9645810e-3e7b-11e8-b989-cf3deefaa8fe.html

Quote from: EddieCabot on April 12, 2018, 09:16:31 PMI always listen to the full podcast because I find them very entertaining (and provide a small distraction from my daily schedule).  I'm envious of folks like VULB#62 who have such busy lives that they don't have time to listen to a full 45 minute podcast.  ;D ;D

Quote from: M on April 13, 2018, 12:37:30 PMYou're right, poor choice of words by me....I personally haven't found many of them enjoyable to listen too.  Gave this one a try, and was disappointed din the lack of talk about the incoming freshmen and the lack of talk about the few games for next year we know about.

Quote from: VU2014 on April 13, 2018, 11:24:25 AM
unlistenable seems a bit harsh. I enjoy the banter and the podcast.

They talk about Sackey & JFL and Paul talks about what he'd do with the available 3 scholarships. They also talk about Micah Bradford's situation and how he apparently looks the best this Spring.

It's definitely worth the listen.

Quote from: M on April 13, 2018, 08:21:28 PM
I just don't find them entertaining or all that informative. I need to spend less time on social media and here getting all the news then maybe I'd learn something from Paul and Parker.

I'm 35, which podcasts do you recommend I try out? Baseball, college basketball, clean energy, and education.

Quote from: a3uge on April 13, 2018, 09:47:37 PM

Quote from: M on April 13, 2018, 08:21:28 PM
I just don't find them entertaining or all that informative. I need to spend less time on social media and here getting all the news then maybe I'd learn something from Paul and Parker.

I'm 35, which podcasts do you recommend I try out? Baseball, college basketball, clean energy, and education.

The episodes with interviews tend to have new and different information. But if you follow the board in the off-season, there's probably not going to be a ton of new information.

For other non-sports and not too political podcasts, I recommend How I Built This, The Freakonomics Podcast, Tell Me Something I Don't Know, and Hidden Brain, in that order.

Quote from: VUGrad1314 on July 06, 2018, 02:57:48 PM
So... this next episode is going to be fun eh?

Quote from: talksalot on July 06, 2018, 07:14:57 PM
Co-hosted by???   

Quote from: Chairback on August 24, 2018, 09:46:53 PM
I think what you are missing Paul is we are all worried about attendance declining.  This non conf home schedule does nothing to help that.  This home non conf schedule just hurts it.  That is our only beef, or at least mine.  It can be better and I question those in charge of making the schedule. 

I love your podcasts but disagree with your view in his one. It just can't be justified.  Plus way too long of a focus with PNW. 

Quote from: wh on September 21, 2018, 07:19:28 AM
In noting that the conference has great facilities around the league, Commissioner Elgin added,

"Valpo is in a position now where they're going to upgrade their facility. We know that's coming."

From a Valpo perspective this is the most significant, revealing comment made at the entire event.

Quote from: FWalum on September 21, 2018, 08:38:05 AM
I guess I am a little confused.... I thought that the Missouri Valley Conference basketball media day was a large event with streaming media interviews of coaches, players and other MVC staff interviews and announcements.  Didn't I watch something like that last year??? I go to the MVC basketball news page and there literally is only 2 references to the media day, the most recent is an Adobe Spark page called "#The Valley Runs Deep".  Did I miss it??? Am I looking in the wrong place?? Is it still coming?? Whats the deal?

Quote from: FWalum on September 21, 2018, 08:38:05 AM
I guess I am a little confused.... I thought that the Missouri Valley Conference basketball media day was a large event with streaming media interviews of coaches, players and other MVC staff interviews and announcements.  Didn't I watch something like that last year??? I go to the MVC basketball news page and there literally is only 2 references to the media day, the most recent is an Adobe Spark page called "#The Valley Runs Deep".  Did I miss it??? Am I looking in the wrong place?? Is it still coming?? Whats the deal?

Quote from: EddieCabot on September 21, 2018, 10:38:35 AM
I've been critical of some posters here who are already pointing to '19-'20 as "the year" for Valpo ... I'm thrilled that the coaches/players are convinced that this should be the year they climb to the top of the Valley.  Valpo is every bit as talented and experienced as any other team ... why not them and why not now?

Quote from: wh on September 21, 2018, 02:32:41 PM

Quote from: EddieCabot on September 21, 2018, 10:38:35 AM
I've been critical of some posters here who are already pointing to '19-'20 as "the year" for Valpo ... I'm thrilled that the coaches/players are convinced that this should be the year they climb to the top of the Valley.  Valpo is every bit as talented and experienced as any other team ... why not them and why not now?

This is the only team I follow where the fans and local press have lower expectations than the players and coaching staff.

Quote from: talksalot on September 21, 2018, 04:19:19 PM
Personally, I just noticed the new "Opening Music"... :)

Quote from: wh on September 21, 2018, 07:19:28 AM
In noting that the conference has great facilities around the league, Commissioner Elgin added,

"Valpo is in a position now where they're going to upgrade their facility. We know that's coming."

From a Valpo perspective this is the most significant, revealing comment made at the entire event.

Quote from: wh on September 25, 2018, 09:30:20 AM

Quote from: wh on September 21, 2018, 07:19:28 AM
In noting that the conference has great facilities around the league, Commissioner Elgin added,

"Valpo is in a position now where they're going to upgrade their facility. We know that's coming."

From a Valpo perspective this is the most significant, revealing comment made at the entire event.

PO - Clearly, Elgin is inferring that a facility improvement plan is in the works at Valpo. This is a huge news item for Valpo fans. If MH is aware of what Elgin said, Im sure he has a response prepared. Will you or your compadre Be following up with him about it?  If not, I guess I'll try to ask him myself at the open practice event for season ticket holders.

Quote from: VULB#62 on September 25, 2018, 11:40:25 AM
Any visible improvement is a step in a positive direction.  And the more the better. but even if they just replaced teh PA sound system this year, it would signal a continued investment

Quote from: Pgmado on September 24, 2018, 10:55:19 PM

Quote from: talksalot on September 21, 2018, 04:19:19 PM
Personally, I just noticed the new "Opening Music"... :)

All good things must come to an end John. While I loved your opening, it's time for a new feel. Parker has moved to Florida, so the old opening didn't make much sense. People that listen know what USH is now and the intro was a bit long for my liking. I'm sure most people just skipped through it after a while. I've gone back and forth on a new co-host, but my preferred options haven't really come to fruition. Here's hoping people still enjoy the pod if it's just me and some random guests.

Quote from: talksalot on September 25, 2018, 05:51:03 PM

Quote from: Pgmado on September 24, 2018, 10:55:19 PM

Quote from: talksalot on September 21, 2018, 04:19:19 PM
Personally, I just noticed the new "Opening Music"... :)

All good things must come to an end John. While I loved your opening, it's time for a new feel. Parker has moved to Florida, so the old opening didn't make much sense. People that listen know what USH is now and the intro was a bit long for my liking. I'm sure most people just skipped through it after a while. I've gone back and forth on a new co-host, but my preferred options haven't really come to fruition. Here's hoping people still enjoy the pod if it's just me and some random guests.

I told you after week 3 that I was already tired of the other one.  Maybe you can use go Cubs go...or Jack brickhouse yelling hey hey!  But you are winning time of possession.

Quote from: humbleopinion on October 24, 2018, 05:30:04 AM
I.T, assistance requested.  How do I get Alexa to play the podcast?  What request do I make?

Quote from: VU2014 on October 26, 2018, 06:59:32 PM
"It's the eve of the 2018-19 college basketball season and NWI Times beat reporter Paul Oren has released the Over/Under prop bets for Valparaiso's upcoming season.

Listen to the latest episode of Union Street Hoops as Paul sits down with the Voice of Valparaiso Athletics, Todd Ickow, to discuss the Over/Under props. Todd shares his picks for the upcoming season and you can too!"

https://www.nwitimes.com/blogs/sports/inside-vu-sports/podcast-union-street-hoops-the---over-under-episode/article_04c7f880-d95b-11e8-bf8e-37fa2177f384.html#tracking-source=home-the-latest

https://twitter.com/NWIOren/status/1055918814200762368

Quote from: VULB#62 on October 27, 2018, 09:10:21 AM
I am happy that Mileek has shown much improvement over the off-season according to all reports and in listening to Todd on the podcast. Now he is rumored to be our starting 5. But wait. Isn't this the same kid who most times last year when inserted into a game picked up 3 fouls in an eye blink because he couldn't match his opponent's quickness or something like that?  As I recall from last year, posters on this board were concerned about him being a defensive liability. What may have changed?

Quote from: tiny707 on October 27, 2018, 03:48:35 PM
Looks like starters will be Javon, Deion, Bakari, Ryan and Mileek.

Quote from: tiny707 on October 27, 2018, 03:48:35 PM
Looks like starters will be Javon, Deion, Bakari, Ryan and Mileek.

Quote from: justducky on October 27, 2018, 04:48:22 PM

Quote from: tiny707 on October 27, 2018, 03:48:35 PM
Looks like starters will be Javon, Deion, Bakari, Ryan and Mileek.

Totally from my gut but I will put the number of starts for each at Javon 20, Deion 12, Bakari all, Ryan all, and Mileek 8. The entire bench has started or could start situationally. This is good because the more options we have the better.

Quote from: FieldGoodie05 on October 27, 2018, 05:06:53 PM-Deion Lavender "right up there as the biggest surprise, really really solid with the basketball.  He's a true PG and can get to the basket

Quote from: tiny707 on October 27, 2018, 06:04:03 PMAlso, a third place finish is a possible....

Quote from: FieldGoodie05 on October 27, 2018, 05:06:53 PM

Quote from: tiny707 on October 27, 2018, 03:48:35 PM
Looks like starters will be Javon, Deion, Bakari, Ryan and Mileek.

Key Takeaways from Union Street Hoops:
-Why are our coaches asking Todd Ickow at practice "if this team is better than last years"?  Maybe it's because 50% of them were not around last year . . . still felt like a really odd thing to ask of Ickow.

Quote from: FieldGoodie05 on October 27, 2018, 05:15:30 PM

Quote from: justducky on October 27, 2018, 04:48:22 PM

Quote from: tiny707 on October 27, 2018, 03:48:35 PM
Looks like starters will be Javon, Deion, Bakari, Ryan and Mileek.

Totally from my gut but I will put the number of starts for each at Javon 20, Deion 12, Bakari all, Ryan all, and Mileek 8. The entire bench has started or could start situationally. This is good because the more options we have the better.

They harped on the podcast that coach plans on keeping players at one position for much of the season.  If I read between the lines correctly, our coaches felt that last years team hadn't a clue what they were supposed to be doing in the musical chairs (position) that was going on.  So if that is the case, I think what we are seeing is Coach Lottich learning from last years "throw ___ at the wall approach".

If I can borrow an example, University of Michigan football (last year) really bit themselves in the ____ by not starting the season with set rolls within the team (in particular QB).  Their HC made a concerted effort his year to name starters and get players comfortable in their roles and there is a noticeable change in execution by this years Michigan football team.  I think the same can be said about Coach Lottich's possible mindset here.  Although I know that we had adversity, there was still a lot of position swapping going on throughout our losing streak around Christmas and in January.  Some of that was us reeling from the gut shots of mono and losing Burton, but also a lot was players moving all over the position depth chart and being asked to do very different things.  I felt during those early MVC games that we were running around the court aimless.

Again, this was a small excerpt from the Podcast and I am reading between the lines but I don't think that the starters will change as much as last year.  I also think that players will mostly stay "in position" for the majority of their minutes. 

Quote from: FieldGoodie05 on October 27, 2018, 05:06:53 PM

Quote from: tiny707 on October 27, 2018, 03:48:35 PM
Looks like starters will be Javon, Deion, Bakari, Ryan and Mileek.

Mileek must've really made strides if coach supplants Smirolla at Center.  I know "starter" is no guarantee of having the minutes lead at that position but it's a significant statement to Smits.  I previously thought Chef's post about Mileek playing C was more of a matchup driven option rather than season starting option.  It is noteworthy that Sorolla being injured to start the season was likely the reasoning behind Mileek getting the nod.  Has Smits really fallen to 3rd string Center?

Quote from: FieldGoodie05 on October 27, 2018, 05:06:53 PMHas Smits really fallen to 3rd string Center?

Quote from: EddieCabot on December 05, 2018, 08:08:57 PM

Latest USH podcast dropped today, and I enjoyed it as usual.  I like that Paul, who usually takes the coaching staff at their word, questioned some of Lottich's post-game comments.  Very insightful.

Off topic, but enjoyed Paul reminiscing about the glory days of having take-charge guys like Brandon Wood and Cory Johnson on the team.  Those were some awesome teams that racked up a lot of wins and did it in an exciting way!  I think Freeman (as he matures and develops) has the potential to be a player like Wood who could take us back to NCAA tournament glory.

Quote from: valpopal on December 05, 2018, 11:00:07 PM
Being in the holiday spirit already and trying to be "optimistic" after the horrible game against High Point, I like to think the team we see in the MVC season this year will be better from what we have witnessed thus far. Will there be a guy who leads? Maybe, or maybe the team will improve as a whole with any guy being the go-to player in any given game. Fazekas has been streaky in his shooting, but is still a very good 44% from the 3-point line, and I'm hoping his consistency game after game will improve. Evelyn had foot surgery during the off season, and I'm hoping he becomes quicker and more comfortable with his lift for shooting in a bit more time. Lavender has been the most consistent overall player and I'm hoping that continues. Although Freeman does not play like a freshman most of the time, we must remember he is, and therefore he has a lot of development still to display as the season progresses to go with what he has already shown. It seems to me that Golder's role is still a little uncertain, and I'm hoping that becomes clearer and he can exhibit his positive energy night after night by the time conference play begins. Smits has made tremendous progress already this season, and it would be great for that to continue. After his time off with injury, Sorolla is still getting back his strength, stamina, and scoring. McMillen's role should be determined by conference play, most likely not in the 5 position, and he certainly must improve upon what we have seen so far. Sackey is a freshman and, unlike Freeman, is continually showing it on the court, but he also should get better as he gains experience. Kiser can offer a bit of grittiness and depth in moments when needed. If Bradford comes back, that would be a bonus addition. Finally, I'm hoping Lottich sees the MVC season as a new start and has used the non-conference to have all the kinks in the rotation worked out.

Quote from: VU2014 on December 05, 2018, 09:05:47 PM
https://twitter.com/NWIOren/status/1070450531808755717

Quote from: VUGrad1314 on December 18, 2018, 04:52:12 PMBut somebody should have stepped in to that role by now and the fact that no one has is very concerning.

Quote from: VU2010 on December 18, 2018, 05:42:06 PM
Did we ever receive an explanation as to what happened to Joe? Would be nice for the sake of closing that chapter in Valpo b-ball history.

Quote from: VUGrad1314 on December 18, 2018, 05:22:54 PM
Ball State isn't even the best team in its conference. They may not even be second best. They're a solid team that should win its share of games but they're not world beaters by any stretch. What happened last night should never have happened.

Quote from: EddieCabot on December 18, 2018, 05:49:50 PM

Quote from: VUGrad1314 on December 18, 2018, 05:22:54 PMBall State isn't even the best team in its conference. They may not even be second best. They're a solid team that should win its share of games but they're not world beaters by any stretch. What happened last night should never have happened.

I'm also tired of every Valpo opponent being deified ... Ball State lost their last game by 12 to MVC bottom-feeder Evansville.

Quote from: VULB#62 on December 18, 2018, 07:24:50 PMGiven our budget, facilities and alumni base, are we finally in over our heads in the MVC?

Quote from: VULB#62 on December 18, 2018, 07:24:50 PM
Given our budget, facilities and alumni base, are we finally in over our heads in the MVC?

Quote from: VUGrad1314 on December 18, 2018, 04:52:12 PMWith all due respect it's been 31 games now since Burton last played. That's a season's worth and ample time to have someone step into that role

Quote from: FWalum on December 19, 2018, 10:35:26 AM

Quote from: VUGrad1314 on December 18, 2018, 04:52:12 PMWith all due respect it's been 31 games now since Burton last played. That's a season's worth and ample time to have someone step into that role

With all due respect players don't generally "step" into that role, they are recruited for a role.  Joe Burton, an ESPN top 100 player, a kid who dominated at the high school level, was recruited to be the Alex Peters scoring replacement.  Leaving the program when he did completely screwed up the recruiting cycle.  With the exception of Lavender our recruiting for the 18-19 season was already essentially done when Burton unexpectedly left the program and while Freeman and Sackey have every indication of being very good players, freshman were not going to replace Burton. The cycle was interrupted and we are still dealing with the consequences.

Quote from: FWalum on December 19, 2018, 10:35:26 AMWith all due respect players don't generally "step" into that role, they are recruited for a role.  Joe Burton, an ESPN top 100 player, a kid who dominated at the high school level, was recruited to be the Alex Peters scoring replacement. 

Quote from: oklahomamick on December 20, 2018, 07:31:51 AM
Bbtds, we have bigger problems than correcting a long time fan and poster in FWalum when hitting the "x" instead of the "c" when typing Alec. I think he knows it's alec. 

For record the c and x are next to each other on the keyboard. 

Stay on track. 

Quote from: oklahomamick on December 20, 2018, 07:31:51 AM
Bbtds, we have bigger problems than correcting a long time fan and poster in FWalum when hitting the "x" instead of the "c" when typing Alec. I think he knows it's alec. 

For record the c and x are next to each other on the keyboard. 

Stay on track. 

Quote from: bbtds on December 20, 2018, 02:36:02 PM

Quote from: oklahomamick on December 20, 2018, 07:31:51 AM
Bbtds, we have bigger problems than correcting a long time fan and poster in FWalum when hitting the "x" instead of the "c" when typing Alec. I think he knows it's alec. 

For record the c and x are next to each other on the keyboard. 

Stay on track. 

If you were Alec or one of his relatives, who I know read the message board, you would be upset. If people called you oklahomamike even if by accident I know you wouldn't like it. I stand by my correcting people who aren't careful enough to even get our most awesome Valpo player's, except for maybe Bryce (you think he liked it when someone called him Bruce at Vanderbilt), name correct.

Quote from: VUBBFan on January 14, 2019, 12:04:38 PM
Hello? HELLO? Are you still there?

I NEED my fix of Union Street Hoops. I'm going through a hard withdrawal.

So much has happened since our last taste and I'm so hungry for more news and insight.

Can you help a fan out? Please?

Quote from: crusader05 on January 14, 2019, 02:41:18 PM
He has been sick. I believe in said on twitter that it will be out today or tomorrow though.

Quote from: bbtds on January 14, 2019, 03:35:05 PM

Quote from: crusader05 on January 14, 2019, 02:41:18 PMHe has been sick. I believe in said on twitter that it will be out today or tomorrow though.

Any substitute teachers available to do a podcast? We all promise to behave for the sub. Really, we do. Really!!

Quote from: VU2014 on January 14, 2019, 08:42:54 PMhttps://twitter.com/nwioren/status/1085002837195739136?s=21

Quote from: VU2014 on February 01, 2019, 05:39:32 PM
Paul once again hints at potential a transfer(s) with all the seniors on the roster next season.

Quote from: M on February 02, 2019, 12:21:37 PM
The little kid games are lots of fun. Saying they should stop as hinted above, I do t listen to the podcasts, is rediculous. Those little games put butts in seats, the fans who stay around their seats are usually into it...if anything to improve gameday very easy would be to have the crusaderettes do a routine each media timeout with music that gets the crowd clapping along. Also, when VU goes on a run and the crowd is pumped and the the opponent calls a timeout, the da he's the music going then has to cut it for a goofy a$$ commercial that kills the energy.

Quote from: M on February 02, 2019, 12:21:37 PM
The little kid games are lots of fun. Saying they should stop as hinted above, I do t listen to the podcasts, is rediculous. Those little games put butts in seats, the fans who stay around their seats are usually into it...if anything to improve gameday very easy would be to have the crusaderettes do a routine each media timeout with music that gets the crowd clapping along. Also, when VU goes on a run and the crowd is pumped and the the opponent calls a timeout, the da he's the music going then has to cut it for a goofy a$$ commercial that kills the energy.

Quote from: VU2010 on February 02, 2019, 04:46:23 PM
I can hear it now: "It's a process." It'll always be a process at this point.

By definition, a process is a series of actions or steps taken in order to achieve a particular end.

What's the particular end? Particular end what is, in Yoda fashion.

That's my question.

Quote from: VU2014 on February 12, 2019, 10:08:55 PM
https://twitter.com/NWIOren/status/1095407958790418441

Quote from: VULB#62 on February 18, 2019, 08:52:41 PM
OMG, the Democrats are burnt toast!

Quote from: VULB#62 on February 18, 2019, 08:52:41 PMOMG, the Democrats are burnt toast!

Quote from: bbtds on February 18, 2019, 09:00:45 PM

Quote from: VULB#62 on February 18, 2019, 08:52:41 PMOMG, the Democrats are burnt toast!

The only one that is burnt toast is the president. 16 states are challenging him in court on the "emergency powers" to finance his wall/further money for border security. You brought it up, I didn't.

Quote from: NativeCheesehead on February 18, 2019, 10:07:19 PM
Really enjoy USH and Paul's take on things. But if this is some BS clickbait.......

Quote from: VUGrad1314 on February 18, 2019, 11:05:28 PM
If he lays into the fans unfairly you can bet I'll have a comment on it pretty similar to when I went in on his comments about the schedule.

Quote from: VU2014 on February 18, 2019, 11:01:08 PM

Quote from: NativeCheesehead on February 18, 2019, 10:07:19 PM
Really enjoy USH and Paul's take on things. But if this is some BS clickbait.......

If it's clickbait that's not cool but I guess that's par for the current media era we're in. Regardless I don't see him laying into the coaching staff. That leaves the players, school or fans. I'm ruling out the school and I think he will say the injuries are an "excuse" for this teams play so that leaves the fans. Do we expect too much from a injury riddled team in its second year in the Valley? Maybe but I think the fans angst with the state of the program goes further than wins and losses right now. Or maybe Paul was just trolling us all to get us to listen. Mission accomplished you have peaked our interest but I'd be listening regardless. I think many fans would like the media to start acknowledging the fan-bases discontent with the state of the program. This fan-base is prideful and tired of the poor play.

Quote from: VU2010 on February 19, 2019, 08:56:15 AM
Not going to be click bait. Paul's going to deliver. I've got faith.

Quote from: EddieCabot on February 19, 2019, 07:50:23 AM

The MVC is now rated #17 by KenPom, one spot ahead of the mighty Horizon League.  I think the "playing in a much better conference" excuse needs to be put on a shelf for now.  That's not the issue.

Quote from: IrishDawg on February 19, 2019, 12:39:27 PM

Quote from: EddieCabot on February 19, 2019, 07:50:23 AM

The MVC is now rated #17 by KenPom, one spot ahead of the mighty Horizon League.  I think the "playing in a much better conference" excuse needs to be put on a shelf for now.  That's not the issue.

True - but the MVC is closer to being in 10th place as a league than 18th if you look at the conference scores themselves.  I do think this year is probably going to be closer to "normal" for the league going forward where they'll be in that higher tier of mid-major leagues, but somewhere in the 10-15 range in terms of a ranking on kenpom.  For the Horizon, IMO, they'll be in that tier just below the MVC's where they'll normally be anywhere from about 18-25 or so.

I think last year the league as a whole overperformed, and this year much of the league is underperforming, so my guess is they'll settle somewhere in the middle of these last couple of years.

Quote from: M on February 19, 2019, 05:52:18 PM
I'm only 25 minutes in and have only heard Game recaps and that Mileek doesn't do anything with his minute(s). Here's a stat for ya: Smits averages a turnover every 10.5 minutes while Mileek he's one every 11.4 minutes.
They want to talk block shots...in conference play Kizer has 1 (played about 2.5 times more minutes), Lavender has 1 (played nearly 4x as many minutes) and Fazekas has 1(has 30 more minutes despite being out for quite a few games). So stuff the stats up your @$$ as to why Mileek doesn't play more.

Can't wait to hear the rest....

Quote from: bbtds on February 19, 2019, 10:04:59 AMI know one thing. It's inevitable that Paul will disappoint someone because he won't be as scorched earth as someone will want him to be.

Quote from: M on February 19, 2019, 05:52:18 PM
I'm only 25 minutes in and have only heard Game recaps and that Mileek doesn't do anything with his minute(s). Here's a stat for ya: Smits averages a turnover every 10.5 minutes while Mileek he's one every 11.4 minutes.
They want to talk block shots...in conference play Kizer has 1 (played about 2.5 times more minutes), Lavender has 1 (played nearly 4x as many minutes) and Fazekas has 1(has 30 more minutes despite being out for quite a few games). So stuff the stats up your @$$ as to why Mileek doesn't play more.

Can't wait to hear the rest....

Quote from: FieldGoodie05 on February 19, 2019, 06:44:07 PM

Quote from: M on February 19, 2019, 05:52:18 PM
I'm only 25 minutes in and have only heard Game recaps and that Mileek doesn't do anything with his minute(s). Here's a stat for ya: Smits averages a turnover every 10.5 minutes while Mileek he's one every 11.4 minutes.
They want to talk block shots...in conference play Kizer has 1 (played about 2.5 times more minutes), Lavender has 1 (played nearly 4x as many minutes) and Fazekas has 1(has 30 more minutes despite being out for quite a few games). So stuff the stats up your @$$ as to why Mileek doesn't play more.

Can't wait to hear the rest....

I appreciate having a guest on your Podcast Paul, it's good to hear back-n-forth.  I'd welcome Robbie as a weekly co-host if that is feasible.  I think many of us understand this is unpaid so it's even more appreciated knowing the time you dedicate. 

Keep up the good work, though boy you were guilty of click bait on "scorched earth"!!! haha  You even admit this as the podcast progresses.  Ever considered adjunct professor of Marketing?!?!?  I'd be interested to know what % increase (downloads) you saw with this episode based on "scorched earth" tweet?

Quote from: Pgmado on February 19, 2019, 09:44:42 PM
My original intent when I tweeted out "scorched earth" was to do the episode alone and have a passionate defense of Lottich. The target of that was not going to be this message board, but really the recent talk I've heard away from the board about wanting Bryce to get fired and then have him replace Lottich.

We had a very interesting media availability with Lottich yesterday (which Robbie and I never really got around to discussing). Lottich walked us through some plays from the Drake game as he was watching film when we went in his office. He showed us good plays and he showed us bad plays. It was fascinating. Never did he throw anyone under the bus. I came away from the experience with a new appreciation for what coaches go through.

I read some of the comments this morning and knew that if I vehemently defended Lottich, it would come off as dismissive of passionate fans, and who the hell am I to do that? So I called Robbie and I knew we'd have a more thoughtful discussion that would be more centered and less fire and brimstone.

I appreciate Robbie's outside-in way of looking at the program, so I knew we'd have a good discussion.

Apologies if I clickbaited you. That wasn't the intent. Much thanks to all of you who listen to this passion project of mine. I'm looking forward to a fun final few weeks of the season.

Quote from: crusaderboy on February 20, 2019, 01:37:52 PM
This is what stood out to me: "You don't fire a coach after three years unless it's a complete disaster. And this is not a complete disaster. They're trending upward."

Wow. Potential back-to-back last-place finishes, not a complete disaster apparently.

Quote from: SanityLost17 on February 20, 2019, 01:58:21 PM

Quote from: crusaderboy on February 20, 2019, 01:37:52 PM
This is what stood out to me: "You don't fire a coach after three years unless it's a complete disaster. And this is not a complete disaster. They're trending upward."

Wow. Potential back-to-back last-place finishes, not a complete disaster apparently.

I can make current emotional decisions based on "potential" futures as well.  In fact, I don't think I am going to leave the house today, somebody "potentially" could hit me with their car.

Quote from: oklahomamick on February 20, 2019, 03:15:04 PM
Lottich doesn't deserve to get fired (nor will he).  Lottich does deserve much criticism.  Next year if Valpo doesn't finish top 3 or make it to the final, Lottich should be fired. 

We have the talent.....must be the coach.

Quote from: a3uge on February 20, 2019, 05:26:22 PM

Quote from: oklahomamick on February 20, 2019, 03:15:04 PMLottich doesn't deserve to get fired (nor will he).  Lottich does deserve much criticism.  Next year if Valpo doesn't finish top 3 or make it to the final, Lottich should be fired. We have the talent.....must be the coach.

I keep seeing posts that say we have a ton of talent. In reality, this team doesn't have much top-end talent. Smits is a starter on most teams and Javon will be great one day, but there's not a player of the year contender, and possibly even 1st team MVC player on the roster for the next few years. Beyond some nice role players, the talent drops off considerably, and that has been evident with a few injuries. They're definitely in a better place than last year, and should be in the top half of the league next year, but they still lack a go-to player (like a Peters or Broekhoff) to seriously contend for a championship. I'm not sure Javon is that player, but maybe one of the new guys coming in next year will help Valpo take the next step.

Quote from: JD24 on February 20, 2019, 09:28:28 PM

Quote from: a3uge on February 20, 2019, 05:26:22 PM

Quote from: oklahomamick on February 20, 2019, 03:15:04 PMLottich doesn't deserve to get fired (nor will he).  Lottich does deserve much criticism.  Next year if Valpo doesn't finish top 3 or make it to the final, Lottich should be fired. We have the talent.....must be the coach.

I keep seeing posts that say we have a ton of talent. In reality, this team doesn't have much top-end talent. Smits is a starter on most teams and Javon will be great one day, but there's not a player of the year contender, and possibly even 1st team MVC player on the roster for the next few years. Beyond some nice role players, the talent drops off considerably, and that has been evident with a few injuries. They're definitely in a better place than last year, and should be in the top half of the league next year, but they still lack a go-to player (like a Peters or Broekhoff) to seriously contend for a championship. I'm not sure Javon is that player, but maybe one of the new guys coming in next year will help Valpo take the next step.

This is probably the best post I've seen on the talent level of the team. I find that some posters overvalue some of the guys on the roster.

Quote from: SanityLost17 on February 20, 2019, 01:58:21 PM

Quote from: crusaderboy on February 20, 2019, 01:37:52 PM
This is what stood out to me: "You don't fire a coach after three years unless it's a complete disaster. And this is not a complete disaster. They're trending upward."

Wow. Potential back-to-back last-place finishes, not a complete disaster apparently.

I can make current emotional decisions based on "potential" futures as well.  In fact, I don't think I am going to leave the house today, somebody "potentially" could hit me with their car.   

Quote from: wh on February 20, 2019, 12:04:33 PM
My specific concern is why after 30 games into the season is there such inconsistency in player energy and effort from 1 game to the next, from 1 half to the next half, from the opening 10 minutes vs. the rest of the game, from 1 player to the next, etc. How did we recently blow out ILS and Muller said they were never ready to match our energy and intensity, then turn around and sleepwalk through parts of the next 2 or 3 games? How did we go from committing to a new hard nosed, "gritty" playing style before the PNW game, and using that "take no prisoners" style to get off to a great start in conference, then suddenly developing a sort of empty souled, zombie look? Why do we constantly have to make line up changes to motivate players to play harder?  How after all this time does the absence of a former walk-in become a primary reason we got off to a "slow start?" 

How frustrating it must be to lead a team whose energy and effort levels ebb and flow randomly like someone with severe biplolor disorder.  I don't know if this is a Matt problem or a player problem, but I do know that it has become so prevalent, so dysfunctional, that it is now part of the team's identity.

Quote from: crusaderboy on February 21, 2019, 11:45:35 AMIs this team trending upward?

Quote from: crusaderboy on February 21, 2019, 11:45:35 AMDo you see player development?

Quote from: crusaderboy on February 21, 2019, 11:45:35 AMWhat's hard is then admitting to yourself the team you love might not be working out.

Quote from: wh on February 21, 2019, 01:14:34 PM

Quote from: wh on February 20, 2019, 12:04:33 PM
My specific concern is why after 30 games into the season is there such inconsistency in player energy and effort from 1 game to the next, from 1 half to the next half, from the opening 10 minutes vs. the rest of the game, from 1 player to the next, etc. How did we recently blow out ILS and Muller said they were never ready to match our energy and intensity, then turn around and sleepwalk through parts of the next 2 or 3 games? How did we go from committing to a new hard nosed, "gritty" playing style before the PNW game, and using that "take no prisoners" style to get off to a great start in conference, then suddenly developing a sort of empty souled, zombie look? Why do we constantly have to make line up changes to motivate players to play harder?  How after all this time does the absence of a former walk-in become a primary reason we got off to a "slow start?" 

How frustrating it must be to lead a team whose energy and effort levels ebb and flow randomly like someone with severe biplolor disorder.  I don't know if this is a Matt problem or a player problem, but I do know that it has become so prevalent, so dysfunctional, that it is now part of the team's identity.

I did not get to see last night's game, nor was I able to listen to much of it. That said, maybe someone can respond to s couple of questions.

1. I noticed that once again Matt shook up the starting line-up with Jay starting and Derrik coming off the bench. Has anyone offered up a reason for it? Was it yet another attempt to send a message to Derrik that he needs to play hard at both ends of the court? Or, not take any plays off? Etc.?

2. Collectively, they had pretty good offensive stats. Any thoughts about whether Matt may stay with this, or should stay with it?

3. Any thoughts about the team's collective effort relative to other recent games?

Quote from: justducky on February 21, 2019, 01:22:07 PM

Quote from: crusaderboy on February 21, 2019, 11:45:35 AMIs this team trending upward?

No

Quote from: crusaderboy on February 21, 2019, 11:45:35 AMDo you see player development?

Freeman and Sackey Yes- major -but with large game to game variations
Sorolla and Smits      Yes- slowly getting better-- painfully slow
Kiser                       Yes - small improvements
Golder and McMillan  Not nearly enough------ I had fooled myself into believing Mileek could make significant contributions. Markus also seems to have some limits to his upside.
Evelyn.                    No
Fazekas.                  Uncertain- I'll give him an injury pass with the hope he can return to early January form.

Quote from: crusaderboy on February 21, 2019, 11:45:35 AMWhat's hard is then admitting to yourself the team you love might not be working out.

You could be right but the injuries have really muddied the water.

Quote from: M on February 21, 2019, 02:34:29 PM
I kind've wonder if Smits was under the weather...he only logged 16 minutes.

Quote from: GoldenCrusader87 on February 21, 2019, 05:51:19 PM
I was waiting for someone to try and compare the impact of injuries at Valpo to the injury of Zion last night. I knew it would come up. Sure, enough - it did.

I 100% agree. The loss of Zion - a mediocre mid major player - is a completely analogous comparison to the injuries we've had this year. So thankful it was finally brought up! I finally feel so much better about the season and realize without the injuries we'd likely be a top seed in the tournament, playing on national tv for game day, and drawing the attendance of celebrities to our games. Tickets would be starting at $2,500 for a battle against the Salukis!

Quote from: PlumStreetBum on February 21, 2019, 07:05:12 PM

Quote from: GoldenCrusader87 on February 21, 2019, 05:51:19 PM
I was waiting for someone to try and compare the impact of injuries at Valpo to the injury of Zion last night. I knew it would come up. Sure, enough - it did.

I 100% agree. The loss of Zion - a mediocre mid major player - is a completely analogous comparison to the injuries we've had this year. So thankful it was finally brought up! I finally feel so much better about the season and realize without the injuries we'd likely be a top seed in the tournament, playing on national tv for game day, and drawing the attendance of celebrities to our games. Tickets would be starting at $2,500 for a battle against the Salukis!

You remind me of my son when he's tired and hungry.

He's 7.

Make a real argument about why the analogy is flawed, or go be sarcastic somewhere else. This is a remarkably civil board on an internet full of cr@p. Please don't be that guy.

Quote from: justducky on February 21, 2019, 01:22:07 PM

Quote from: crusaderboy on February 21, 2019, 11:45:35 AMIs this team trending upward?

No

Quote from: crusaderboy on February 21, 2019, 11:45:35 AMDo you see player development?

Freeman and Sackey Yes- major -but with large game to game variations
Sorolla and Smits      Yes- slowly getting better-- painfully slow
Kiser                       Yes - small improvements
Golder and McMillan  Not nearly enough------ I had fooled myself into believing Mileek could make significant contributions. Markus also seems to have some limits to his upside.
Evelyn.                    No
Fazekas.                  Uncertain- I'll give him an injury pass with the hope he can return to early January form.

Quote from: crusaderboy on February 21, 2019, 11:45:35 AMWhat's hard is then admitting to yourself the team you love might not be working out.

You could be right but the injuries have really muddied the water.

Quote from: FieldGoodie05 on February 21, 2019, 07:18:04 PM

Quote from: PlumStreetBum on February 21, 2019, 07:05:12 PM

Quote from: GoldenCrusader87 on February 21, 2019, 05:51:19 PM
I was waiting for someone to try and compare the impact of injuries at Valpo to the injury of Zion last night. I knew it would come up. Sure, enough - it did.

I 100% agree. The loss of Zion - a mediocre mid major player - is a completely analogous comparison to the injuries we've had this year. So thankful it was finally brought up! I finally feel so much better about the season and realize without the injuries we'd likely be a top seed in the tournament, playing on national tv for game day, and drawing the attendance of celebrities to our games. Tickets would be starting at $2,500 for a battle against the Salukis!

You remind me of my son when he's tired and hungry.

He's 7.

Make a real argument about why the analogy is flawed, or go be sarcastic somewhere else. This is a remarkably civil board on an internet full of cr@p. Please don't be that guy.

Zion 21.6 ppg (25% of team points)
Duke 85.9 ppg

Fazekas 13.3 ppg (almost 20%)
Valpo 68.4 ppg

You really cannot make an argument on anything other than % of contributions.  Who gives a crap if Zion is the next MJ, it really only matters what % of team offense he was at time of the injury.  Take out Zion and insert Player A....

Fact is we are likely better than .500 team with all guys healthy and continuous continuity...end of story.

Quote from: FieldGoodie05 on February 21, 2019, 07:18:04 PM

Quote from: PlumStreetBum on February 21, 2019, 07:05:12 PM

Quote from: GoldenCrusader87 on February 21, 2019, 05:51:19 PMI was waiting for someone to try and compare the impact of injuries at Valpo to the injury of Zion last night. I knew it would come up. Sure, enough - it did. I 100% agree. The loss of Zion - a mediocre mid major player - is a completely analogous comparison to the injuries we've had this year. So thankful it was finally brought up! I finally feel so much better about the season and realize without the injuries we'd likely be a top seed in the tournament, playing on national tv for game day, and drawing the attendance of celebrities to our games. Tickets would be starting at $2,500 for a battle against the Salukis!

You remind me of my son when he's tired and hungry. He's 7. Make a real argument about why the analogy is flawed, or go be sarcastic somewhere else. This is a remarkably civil board on an internet full of cr@p. Please don't be that guy.

Zion 21.6 ppg (25% of team points) Duke 85.9 ppg Fazekas 13.3 ppg (almost 20%) Valpo 68.4 ppg You really cannot make an argument on anything other than % of contributions.  Who gives a crap if Zion is the next MJ, it really only matters what % of team offense he was at time of the injury.  Take out Zion and insert Player A.... Fact is we are likely better than .500 team with all guys healthy and continuous continuity...end of story.

Quote from: crusaderboy on February 22, 2019, 08:02:58 AMYou could be right but the injuries have really muddied the water.

Quote from: a3uge on February 20, 2019, 05:26:22 PM

Quote from: oklahomamick on February 20, 2019, 03:15:04 PM
Lottich doesn't deserve to get fired (nor will he).  Lottich does deserve much criticism.  Next year if Valpo doesn't finish top 3 or make it to the final, Lottich should be fired. 

We have the talent.....must be the coach.

I keep seeing posts that say we have a ton of talent. In reality, this team doesn't have much top-end talent. Smits is a starter on most teams and Javon will be great one day, but there's not a player of the year contender, and possibly even 1st team MVC player on the roster for the next few years. Beyond some nice role players, the talent drops off considerably, and that has been evident with a few injuries.

They're definitely in a better place than last year, and should be in the top half of the league next year, but they still lack a go-to player (like a Peters or Broekhoff) to seriously contend for a championship. I'm not sure Javon is that player, but maybe one of the new guys coming in next year will help Valpo take the next step.

Quote from: a3uge on February 24, 2019, 03:44:46 PM
UNI is still scoring less per game than Valpo and have a worse FG%. Both teams offenses looked putrid last night. UNI had some late 3s that was the difference in the game. I wouldn't look to that team as a model for a decent offense.

Valpo's offense is certainly frustrating. They have the most turnovers in the league, and can't (and usually don't) shoot the 3. The bigs aren't skilled enough passers to kick it out to the corners (if they actually catch the ball) and the guards can't penetrate without turning it over. Freeman can finish every once in awhile, but he hasn't shown the ability to pass it out to an open shooter.

Plenty of blame to go around here, and I still contend the problem has more to do with player skill than an offensive scheme. You can't scheme Kiser into a shooter, Golder into a ball handler, and Bakari into a finisher. I don't think coach K could make these guys look competent on offense.

Quote from: NativeCheesehead on March 01, 2019, 08:30:14 PM
This was one of the better episodes of USH of the season.

Question for Paul:

Last episode you brought up the "Replace Lottich with Bryce" crowd. This episode it was the "can't build your program through transfers" group. Where are these groups coming from?

I'll admit, my Valpo basketball group is fairly restricted, basically this board and the 25-30 people I sit near at the games. But I haven't heard any of that. Im sure these voices are out there. But I would question how prevalent they are.

Quote from: M on March 02, 2019, 05:09:16 PMHe won't ask those tough questions...come on.

Quote from: JD24 on March 02, 2019, 05:12:30 PM

Quote from: M on March 02, 2019, 05:09:16 PMHe won't ask those tough questions...come on.

Even if asked, they won't be answered to the satisfaction of the angry mob.

Quote from: VUGrad1314 on March 02, 2019, 06:20:24 PM
And please... An ARC reno plan... I'm begging...

Quote from: VU2014 on March 02, 2019, 06:29:08 PM

Quote from: VUGrad1314 on March 02, 2019, 06:20:24 PMAnd please... An ARC reno plan... I'm begging...

(https://thumbs.gfycat.com/DefensiveGrandioseAustralianfurseal-size_restricted.gif)

Quote from: VU2014 on March 01, 2019, 08:53:24 PMI saw a few people suggesting bring back Bryce

Quote from: vu72 on March 02, 2019, 07:06:43 PM

Quote from: VU2014 on March 01, 2019, 08:53:24 PMI saw a few people suggesting bring back Bryce

Come on!  Who ever is suggesting this isn't listening to the sporting news.  Vandy lost again tonight to Texas A & M after leading at half.  They have now lost 17 in a row.  Guess what?  Vandy couldn't hit the broad side of a barn from the 3, and their talent level is a lot higher than Valpo.  Bryce or Matt can't make the shot for their teams.  We need to shut it down and after everyone is healthy, reevaluate our talent.  Who leads this team next year?  Who leaves and who stays and who rides the pines while others step into the starting lineup.  A VERY important off season as it relates to the future of the program as well as Matt's.

Quote from: a3uge on March 02, 2019, 07:29:15 PM

Quote from: vu72 on March 02, 2019, 07:06:43 PM

Quote from: VU2014 on March 01, 2019, 08:53:24 PMI saw a few people suggesting bring back Bryce

Come on!  Who ever is suggesting this isn't listening to the sporting news.  Vandy lost again tonight to Texas A & M after leading at half.  They have now lost 17 in a row.  Guess what?  Vandy couldn't hit the broad side of a barn from the 3, and their talent level is a lot higher than Valpo.  Bryce or Matt can't make the shot for their teams.  We need to shut it down and after everyone is healthy, reevaluate our talent.  Who leads this team next year?  Who leaves and who stays and who rides the pines while others step into the starting lineup.  A VERY important off season as it relates to the future of the program as well as Matt's.

Interesting Vandy is last place in conference PPG and FG%, and is shooting 31% from 3. Perhaps we're in the same situation with either coach. The whole offensive scheme needs to be scrapped.

Quote from: VU2014 on March 05, 2019, 07:42:12 PM
A really good podcast! I could listen to Joe Otis talk about basketball for hours. He shares some great insight about the roster, Coach Lottich, and the teams issues. Also has a few good stories.

Side Note: could we offer Joe Otis the Color Commentators job during the games? Please? I like Dave but Joe really could offer some interesting in game basketball analysis to pair with Todd which is what the job is suppose to be about. I'm not sure Joe would want it but for just home games maybe? Just an idea.

https://twitter.com/nwioren/status/1103055443365117953?s=21

Quote from: VUGrad1314 on March 05, 2019, 08:30:12 PM
Wow... and we think our current budgetary and facilities plight is embarrassing... Asking a coach for a ride? Good Lord...

Also find the Bryce vs Lottich comparison pretty invalid... But yes Teach the Virgil Sweet method...

Interesting that he thinks it's more on the players than Lottich for our late game struggles.

Quote from: IrishDawg on March 06, 2019, 04:16:58 PM
Joe Otis has forgotten more basketball than I'll ever know, but to act like it should just be automatic that kids should just shoot 75-80% when there's about 35 teams in a given year that shoot that well from the foul line is a little too "back in my day we did blah blah blah".

Free throw shooting at the NCAA level is actually better now across the country than what it's ever been.  The last 4 years have seen the highest free throw percentages than any years since Kenpom's got records for back all the way to 1948.  This year's Valpo team, if you look at the team's free throw shooting over the last 19 years is ranked 11th.  Not great, but not terrible either and they're about 1.5% off of being average nationally.

In terms of coaching, you guys are better versed in what Lottich does than I'll ever be, but I don't think he's done a terrible job.  Team has young talent that needs development, and ultimately I think if he's going to be successful, that's what needs to happen.

Quote from: GoldenCrusader87 on March 06, 2019, 12:29:59 PM
Those of you who listen to Joe's comments regarding Matt need to listen closely. He's a professional.
And, it's not his first rodeo. He's not going to call for Matt to lose his job. But, if you listen closely - you will hear his concerns regarding Matt. And, the mention of his advocation for Tonagel is telling. Didn't even get an interview? What a joke. Makes me sick. And don't even tell me it's because of his religious views. Absurd. The man can flat out coach. We're the losers in this. As are our players. 3 national championships in how many years? 5??!!!??

You're crazy if you think that Greg wouldn't have this team performing better. I'm 1,000% confident he would.

And stop talking about Matt's playing career. I could honestly care less how "good" of a player he was. Honestly. Just like when I hear he runs the point guard for the scout team.

Cool. Have fun. Glad you can play. But my goodness. Increased winning % next year will be a result of transfers more than coaching. Which he can get credit for since he seemingly played a role in getting them to transfer. But, the man is stubborn. And will not get better without his willingness to humble himself and learn.

Quote from: M on March 06, 2019, 08:15:26 PM
Oh goodie or goody...another grammer nahtzi

Quote from: GoldenCrusader87 on March 06, 2019, 08:03:05 PMWhen you check your spelling, then you can explain your ability to read my mind.

Quote from: GoldenCrusader87 on March 06, 2019, 06:55:59 PM
Here's a 13-year old article on Greg:

https://www.heraldargus.com/news/opinion/my-pick-for-iu-hoops-coach-greg-tonagel/article_60b0fa5a-c9b1-594e-a45d-16599ad5c571.html

Quote from: GoldenCrusader87 on March 06, 2019, 06:55:59 PMAgain, I'll never understand why some of you make these ongoing excuses. It's only his 3rd year as a head coach. Boo hoo. Greg needs D1 coaching experience first? Oh, right. So, it made more sense for us to hire a guy who had been an assistant coach at ONE mid-major D-1 school under ONE head coach who was a control freak. Who likely had next to no direct say on in-game decisions. VS. Someone who has won 3 national championships in 5 years as THE HEAD coach. Makes sense. He should go sit under Matt for 3 years first. Then, he'll magically be ready? Here's a 13-year old article on Greg: https://www.heraldargus.com/news/opinion/my-pick-for-iu-hoops-coach-greg-tonagel/article_60b0fa5a-c9b1-594e-a45d-16599ad5c571.html What was Matt doing 13 years ago?

Quote from: crusader05 on March 06, 2019, 05:21:18 PMI think for me it's less the blow outs (those happen to every team) vs the close losses that really are due to the team's tendency to go cold. 

Quote from: crusader05 on March 06, 2019, 03:41:33 PM
I agree. Also, I don't think we need to go down another "hometown hero coaching his alma mater" road again.

The Drews have been good for Valpo Basketball but Valpo Basketball has also been very very good to the Drews but I don't know that's it's a model that was healthy for everyone involved.

Quote from: wh on March 07, 2019, 05:09:59 AM

Quote from: crusader05 on March 06, 2019, 03:41:33 PM
I agree. Also, I don't think we need to go down another "hometown hero coaching his alma mater" road again.

The Drews have been good for Valpo Basketball but Valpo Basketball has also been very very good to the Drews but I don't know that's it's a model that was healthy for everyone involved.

I think it's more accurately "Valpo basketball was also been very, very good FOR the Drew's. It was the right fit at the right time - a university with a fledgling D-1 bb program, which provided a unique opportunity for Homer to move up in the coaching world. I suppose you could say they were very good TO him (not sure about "very, very") by staying with him during the lean years at the beginning. Other than that, Valpo was like any other employer, was it not?

Quote from: GoldenCrusader87 on March 20, 2019, 06:42:32 PM
Starting to wonder what the target audience of these podcasts is... why not bring someone on who IS concerned? Case in point = even Dot Nuechterlein tweeted about this situation ... she's like our Sister Jean ... come on. Sometimes, it's just bad ingredients ... seriously? Bueller. Bueller.

Quote from: VUBBFan on March 20, 2019, 06:55:18 PM

Quote from: GoldenCrusader87 on March 20, 2019, 06:42:32 PMStarting to wonder what the target audience of these podcasts is... why not bring someone on who IS concerned? Case in point = even Dot Nuechterlein tweeted about this situation ... she's like our Sister Jean ... come on. Sometimes, it's just bad ingredients ... seriously? Bueller. Bueller.

I agree on some of your points, but it seems that your not satisfied with any comments or discussions that concern VU Basketball that don't crucify Lottich.

Quote from: VUBBFan on March 20, 2019, 06:56:29 PM

Quote from: VUBBFan on March 20, 2019, 06:55:18 PM

Quote from: GoldenCrusader87 on March 20, 2019, 06:42:32 PMStarting to wonder what the target audience of these podcasts is... why not bring someone on who IS concerned? Case in point = even Dot Nuechterlein tweeted about this situation ... she's like our Sister Jean ... come on. Sometimes, it's just bad ingredients ... seriously? Bueller. Bueller.

I agree on some of your points, but it seems that your not satisfied with any comments or discussions that concern VU Basketball that don't crucify Lottich.

El stampo!

Quote from: crusader05 on April 25, 2019, 09:16:15 AMthat he's been having computer issues that he's been working to get resolved

Quote from: VU2014 on April 27, 2019, 07:13:48 PM
https://twitter.com/NWIOren/status/1122289717465235456

Quote from: VUGrad1314 on April 27, 2019, 09:45:03 PM
The apologetics for Lottich on this podcast are unsurprising but frustrating and disappointing. It isn't ALL his fault but it IS his responsibility ultimately.

Quote from: VUGrad1314 on April 27, 2019, 09:45:03 PM
The apologetics for Lottich on this podcast are unsurprising but frustrating and disappointing. It isn't ALL his fault but it IS his responsibility ultimately.

Quote from: VU2014 on April 27, 2019, 07:59:46 PMA great podcast. A few very interest nuggets were that Todd thought that Freeman didn't want to leave Valpo and that there may still be a chance Jay Sorolla may come back to Valpo.

Quote from: wh on April 28, 2019, 08:11:19 AM
Let's be honest. Jay is a bad offensive player, borderline terrible. I hope we find someone else.

Quote from: valpopal on April 28, 2019, 10:56:01 AM
To me, the big news in the broadcast was Todd's comment that he would be totally shocked if Bradford is seen in a Valpo uniform again. I hope this means another spot opens soon for an additional recruit or transfer.

Quote from: valpospartan on April 28, 2019, 03:03:01 PM

Quote from: valpopal on April 28, 2019, 10:56:01 AM
To me, the big news in the broadcast was Todd's comment that he would be totally shocked if Bradford is seen in a Valpo uniform again. I hope this means another spot opens soon for an additional recruit or transfer.

I seem to remember saying, months ago, that MB will never play at VU again.

Quote from: valpospartan on April 28, 2019, 03:03:01 PM

Quote from: valpopal on April 28, 2019, 10:56:01 AM
To me, the big news in the broadcast was Todd's comment that he would be totally shocked if Bradford is seen in a Valpo uniform again. I hope this means another spot opens soon for an additional recruit or transfer.

I seem to remember saying, months ago, that MB will never play at VU again.