Going for 11 in a row in the ARC... Good luck on Finals...and let's get another W
About the Syc's...
4-4 overall... Nolan RPI is 110. realTime RPI is 112, Sagarin 103
2-0 at home: Northern Illinois and Buttler
2-1 away - Wins at Ball State and Utah State; loss to NIU (Played 'em twice)
0-3 Neutral... Iowa State, Stanford and Quinnipiac
Play at Home Sunday against #305 Western Kentucky at 3:30CT
Here's their roster
http://gosycamores.com/roster.aspx?path=mbball
and here's their stat sheet
http://gosycamores.com/cumestats.aspx?path=mbball
Valpo 77
Indiana State 67
Tx took my score...I will go 79-69 Valpo victory.
The Indiana State - WKY game is on ESPN3 Sunday afternoon...if you want to take a break from shoveling...
Valpo 72-70.
Should be a great matchup. By the way, what is the deal with our "new" uniforms? Both home and away lettering(different styles???) is piped in GRAY! Let's see...no more BROWN and gold but it was replaced by BLACK and gold(or should I say yellow) and now no more black but GRAY?????? Who makes the decisions on uniform design, colors, etc? The women's teams seem to get it right.
Western Kentucky 77, Indiana State 59 in Terre Haute
Sycamores were 19 point FAVORITES going in.
Indiana State was 115 RPI... falls to 165 with that loss.. they fall to 4-5 on the year... the Hilltoppers RPI climbs up to 260.
Based on RPI, we are the best team ISU will face the rest of the year... we have a better RPI than every Valley team.
Nolan Predictor says Valpo by 7; RealTime Predictor says Valpo by 10 (before they posted the ISU-WKY score)
Sagarin has moved Valpo up from 80 all the way to... 77. Da Grizz are 78, playing the 348th ranked OOC schedule; Valpo's is 42nd)
ISU was something like 2-24 from 3-land. Their stud guard (Scott from Ft Wayne) forces things but does have DRIVING ability. FT % was 59%.
Quote from: talksalot on December 11, 2016, 05:55:08 PMWestern Kentucky 77, Indiana State 59 in Terre Haute Sycamores were 19 point FAVORITES going in. Indiana State was 115 RPI... falls to 165 with that loss.. they fall to 4-5 on the year... the Hilltoppers RPI climbs up to 260. Based on RPI, we are the best team ISU will face the rest of the year... we have a better RPI than every Valley team. Nolan Predictor says Valpo by 7; RealTime Predictor says Valpo by 10 (before they posted the ISU-WKY score) Sagarin has moved Valpo up from 80 all the way to... 77. Da Grizz are 78, playing the 348th ranked OOC schedule; Valpo's is 42nd)
Wish we were in Missouri Valley.... :twocents:
Quote from: FieldGoodie05 on December 11, 2016, 06:06:58 PM
ISU was something like 2-24 from 3-land. Their stud guard (Scott from Ft Wayne) forces things but does have DRIVING ability. FT % was 59%.
Nine man rotation... or trying to find a way to make a bucket. 20 of 34 from 2-point
Quote from: talksalot on December 11, 2016, 05:55:08 PMSagarin has moved Valpo up from 80 all the way to... 77.
It seems really hard to change your position, or at least to climb, in the Pomeroy ratings as well. Not sure if that's comforting, that they're less vulnerable than RPI during non-conference play, or discouraging. Pomeroy, at least, has some pre-season weights? Not sure when those disappear, or become insignificant.
If the "University Matter" is over
Valpo 80
Ind St 66
If not,
Valpo 76
Ind St 68
Year to date stats comparison
Scoring Offense: Valpo 75.1 to 72.0
Scoring Defense: ISU 68.8 to 72.6
Scoring Margin: ISU 3.2 to 2.5
Rebound Margin: Valpo +3.5 to ISU -3.9
Assists/Game: ISU 13.6 to 11.4 (Valpo is #309)
Blocks/Game: ISU 3.7 to 3.0
Steals/Game: Valpo 7.5 to 7.0
Turnover Margin: ISU 1.5 to 0.7
Assist/TO Ratio: ISU 1.06 to 0.78 (Valpo is #311)
Field Goal %: ISU 43.7 to 42.3
Field Goal % Defense: 40.0 to 43.6
3ptrs made per game: ISU 8.0 to 5.5 - (Valpo is #312)
3ptr FG %: ISU 33.3 Valpo 27.3 (yes, even after going 2-24 on Sunday) Valpo is #340)
Free Throw %: Valpo 80.2% to 64.4% (Valpo is #5)
D1- W/L %: Valpo 80% to 50%
So, out of 15 NCAA Stats... ISU leads Valpo in 10 of them.
Forgot one...
In wins: Valpo 8 to 5
It's hard to predict point totals before knowing if Jubril and Max are playing. There has been speculation that the suspensions may have been cheating or plagiarism, which as WH looked up in the rule book is 5% of schedule suspension, which mean two games. I think we win either way but JA and Max are key players to this team and will make getting the win against Indiana State tougher. Indiana State isn't a bad team. They stole a game from #16 Butler earlier this year.
"Hail to the brown, black, gray, yellow and gold, thy sons and daughters bold".........sorry, just trying to put the colors into context of the Alma Mater lyrics.
does anyone know anything on jubril and max
Sent from my SM-G920R4 using Tapatalk
Quote from: Smj on December 14, 2016, 06:59:12 PMdoes anyone know anything on jubril and max Sent from my SM-G920R4 using Tapatalk
:-X
Here's a long term prediction: No Jubril = No NCAA Tournament.
In his interview with Todd, Matt was asked if Nick Davidson is now in the rotation (as a rotation regular?). "We take those things week by week" (BIG SMILE) is close to an exact quote. Sounded like a no to me.
From what little can be read into it, I took Matt's expectation to be that the "issue" is resolvable with less than catastrophic consequences. For purposes of this conversation I will define catastrophic as being season or career ending. Anything less than that has the inadvertent benefit of hastening our bench development.
I wonder if some folks are sitting on their hands with their Saturday night attendance decisions? Either way should we get to 4000+? Should we start a poll?
Students will be gone so i'm thinking it will be hard to get to 4000. Add that to anticipated poor weather this weekend and I wouldn't be surprised to see some disappointing numbers for a match up like this.
Luke, in the post-game interview, asked students specifically to stay an extra day for the game.
I'm not sure they heard the message.
Campus is already very empty; it seems entirely traditional to leave for home as soon as your finals are done. I assume the dorms will actually close before tip-off.
Hopefully we get a good community crowd. I wish the cheerleaders did a better job of actually -leading cheers-. A fair number of fans up in the mezzanine join in with the student section. But, the cheerleaders don't seem to take on that role.
Even the tradition of a community pep band over Christmas, with most students gone, seems to have dried up.
I'll try to do my part,but even if we get 4,000 I'm afraid it may be relatively quiet.
I'm sure there will be a few dedicated students there, but yeah, I wouldn't expect a great atmosphere. Regardless, I'm looking forward to being back in the ARC again.
Quote from: Valpo89 on December 15, 2016, 11:17:15 AM
Here's a long term prediction: No Jubril = No NCAA Tournament.
Trying not to think about it, but I have to agree. We have very limited ability to overcome long-term suspensions to key players anymore than we have to overcome long-term injuries to key players. In either case we will lose games we otherwise would have won and earn a lower seed in the HL tournament than we otherwise would have earned.
Quote from: agibson on December 15, 2016, 01:56:53 PMLuke, in the post-game interview, asked students specifically to stay an extra day for the game. I'm not sure they heard the message. Campus is already very empty; it seems entirely traditional to leave for home as soon as your finals are done. I assume the dorms will actually close before tip-off. Hopefully we get a good community crowd. I wish the cheerleaders did a better job of actually -leading cheers-. A fair number of fans up in the mezzanine join in with the student section. But, the cheerleaders don't seem to take on that role. Even the tradition of a community pep band over Christmas, with most students gone, seems to have dried up. I'll try to do my part,but even if we get 4,000 I'm afraid it may be relatively quiet.
It'd be great if they were able to keep the on-campus residence halls open, but I believe they close up the morning after the last finals (which are on Friday?). I realize housing is obligated to staff the buildings if there are students there, but I remember finding VU pretty strict on this kind of thing -- you needed a better excuse than sticking around for a basketball game to remain on campus. Which is a shame when 70% of Valpo students or whatever it is live on campus.
I suppose a lot of them live in greater Chicagoland, but if the weather is bad, I doubt very many will make the trip.
From Valpo.edu: "All University operated residences close for Winter Break on Saturday, December 17, 2016, at noon and will reopen after Winter Break on Sunday, January 8, 2017 at noon."
Not that international students are big basketball fans, but where do they stay? You aren't heading home to India for a few days break! ???
I see a decent number of international students at VU athletics events, including basketball.
Historically they've kept Brandt Hall open through breaks for reasons like this. For international students, and maybe you were eligible if you lived more than X miles from campus. Maybe athletes. Hopefully they are willing to listen to other requests.
I trust something like this is still in place.
"I want to watch a basketball game" probably isn't enough.
Historically it's meant that an outsize fraction of the international students live in Brandt, which may have pros and cons.
I assume they can help you find a room for break if you don't already live in Brandt. But, I imagine that's a hassle.
Quote from: momofalex on December 16, 2016, 07:15:07 AM
From Valpo.edu: "All University operated residences close for Winter Break on Saturday, December 17, 2016, at noon and will reopen after Winter Break on Sunday, January 8, 2017 at noon."
Interesting the University now refers to Christmas break as "Winter Break" and very few people notice.
Paul
Quote from: justducky on December 15, 2016, 12:20:43 PM
In his interview with Todd, Matt was asked if Nick Davidson is now in the rotation (as a rotation regular?). "We take those things week by week" (BIG SMILE) is close to an exact quote. Sounded like a no to me.
From what little can be read into it, I took Matt's expectation to be that the "issue" is resolvable with less than catastrophic consequences. For purposes of this conversation I will define catastrophic as being season or career ending. Anything less than that has the inadvertent benefit of hastening our bench development.
I wonder if some folks are sitting on their hands with their Saturday night attendance decisions? Either way should we get to 4000+? Should we start a poll?
Weather will be a huge factor for some people. How much snow will fall and how blustery will the wind be Saturday night.
Quote from: 78crusader on December 16, 2016, 09:42:28 AMInteresting the University now refers to Christmas break as "Winter Break" and very few people notice.
*shrug*
I'm not sure that the break has an official name. It's not even listed on the official calendars I see - you need calendars during the semesters, not so much for the times between them. I've seen various administrators, the Registrar's office and others, refer to it variously as "Winter Break", "Holiday Break", "Christmas Break", "Semester Break".
We still get Good Friday off. It's on the official academic calendar, named as such.
That web site with the "Winter Break" language you commented on
http://www.valpo.edu/reslife/
actually calls it both Winter Break and Semester Break.
And it has the rules for break housing. It's now Alumni, Berg, and Uptown East, apparently. Athletes, international students, and those whose homes are 500+ miles away are all allowed. And student teachers and other interns. I assume they'd be open to other possibilities - but maybe not basketball fans (_maybe_ if there was a huge upswell of student support which included RA's wiling to stay the extra day... or maybe if it was a very small number of students and "in the noise").
Quote from: agibson on December 16, 2016, 11:04:47 AM
Quote from: 78crusader on December 16, 2016, 09:42:28 AMInteresting the University now refers to Christmas break as "Winter Break" and very few people notice.
*shrug*
I'm not sure that the break has an official name. It's not even listed on the official calendars I see - you need calendars during the semesters, not so much for the times between them. I've seen various administrators, the Registrar's office and others, refer to it variously as "Winter Break", "Holiday Break", "Christmas Break", "Semester Break".
We still get Good Friday off. It's on the official academic calendar, named as such.
That web site with the "Winter Break" language you commented on
http://www.valpo.edu/reslife/
actually calls it both Winter Break and Semester Break.
And it has the rules for break housing. It's now Alumni, Berg, and Uptown East, apparently. Athletes, international students, and those whose homes are 500+ miles away are all allowed. And student teachers and other interns. I assume they'd be open to other possibilities - but maybe not basketball fans (_maybe_ if there was a huge upswell of student support which included RA's wiling to stay the extra day... or maybe if it was a very small number of students and "in the noise").
Quote from: agibson on December 16, 2016, 08:53:59 AM
I see a decent number of international students at VU athletics events, including basketball.
Historically they've kept Brandt Hall open through breaks for reasons like this. For international students, and maybe you were eligible if you lived more than X miles from campus. Maybe athletes. Hopefully they are willing to listen to other requests.
I trust something like this is still in place.
"I want to watch a basketball game" probably isn't enough.
Historically it's meant that an outsize fraction of the international students live in Brandt, which may have pros and cons.
I assume they can help you find a room for break if you don't already live in Brandt. But, I imagine that's a hassle.
There just ATHLETES from 28 States and 9 foreign countries. I'm guessing at least 500 students fall into the previously mentioned 500 mile range, but given the length of break I suspect even someone from, say, Arizona or Florida may make the trip home.
Quote from: 78crusader on December 16, 2016, 09:42:28 AM
Quote from: momofalex on December 16, 2016, 07:15:07 AM
From Valpo.edu: "All University operated residences close for Winter Break on Saturday, December 17, 2016, at noon and will reopen after Winter Break on Sunday, January 8, 2017 at noon."
Interesting the University now refers to Christmas break as "Winter Break" and very few people notice.
Paul
I thought it was called "Winter Break" in the 1980's. Fall Semester, Spring Semester, Winter Break
Has anyone heard if Jubril and Max will play?
Quote from: valpo64 on December 16, 2016, 03:09:56 PM
Has anyone heard if Jubril and Max will play?
I have not. Even people who you would think would know are not talking.
What ever happened to just telling the truth and getting it out in the open?
Too novel of a concept, I suppose.
You would think that something would be out by now. At first the whole thing seemed minor with not alot of "fanfare". But with the silence one begins to wonder.
Quote from: valpo64 on December 16, 2016, 03:57:51 PMYou would think that something would be out by now. At first the whole thing seemed minor with not alot of "fanfare". But with the silence one begins to wonder.
Almost certainly something has been decided so I am now viewing the total silence as being a tactical strategy. Indiana State is as much in the dark as we are so why provide them with any clues for game preparation?
Wait! This approach would neither be totally fair or totally honest so is Matt being a sly dog or are we facing a much larger and as yet unresolved problem ???
Taking a more optimistic look at the situation. Perhaps it could be a class situation where grades may be the issue and exams and papers which are due this week may be the issues. I hope this is the situation and where some extra work will in the end will fix the situation.
If anyone knows, its vegas. Whats the spread?
Quote from: oklahomamick on December 16, 2016, 06:34:46 PM
If anyone knows, its vegas. Whats the spread?
Valpo is an 8 point favorite.
That's a big bombshell by a first time poster 🔥
Pretty scummy series of events if true. Just have to wait and see. :( :(
EDIT: Hope this is not fake news (no disrespect Valpofan1000)
unfortunately it's not fake news. Without jubril we are looking at a whole new team.
It's an accurate synopsis. I'm only saying something because I hope it ends some of the wild speculation that I've been hearing.
Quote from: ValpoFan1000 on December 16, 2016, 08:31:43 PMBasketball manager caught stealing from baseball team, kicked off of team, comes back later and asks lottich for a letter of recommendation, lottich says no, basketball manager begins to black mail jubril and max because he did some of their work, lottich questions max and jubril. Jubril admits, max does not.
Sounds like one admission of cheating and one suspicion of cheating and lying. Now I understand the silence as the appropriate, rule based responses will need to be determined and delivered. While I expect that some of this behavior goes on with a wink and a nod at other institutions this is not one of them.
The wind is out of my sails and I may be one additional empty seat tomorrow. Sorry
Well, our 6-man rotation just became a 4-man rotation plus players with mostly mop-up minutes to their credit.
Without Jubril's scoring we absolutely would have lost all 3 of our biggest wins to date - Alabama (JA 16 points), BYU (JA 12), and URI (JA 13). What we are left with is a 5-5 team with an 8-2 record. Matt will say all the right things like "next man up", etc., but this is a sobering development nonetheless, and absolutely the last thing the program needed in year-1 of the pivot away from the Drew dynasty.
If story ends up being true. I think a lot of questions will be answered tomorrow in terms of the discipline handed down.
If they were going to be dismissed wouldn't they have been given a flight home from Lexington instead of traveling and staying with the team in Missouri state? At MSU JA was joining the team during timeouts. I did noticed there was no interaction between JA, MJ and the entire coaching staff.
If the game tips off and they are not at the end of bench in street clothes, well, we've seen the last of JA and MJ. Adding the Utah st. Player (in which we never heard anything about) that will be 3 players dismissed in the 1st year. Could really use skara right now.
I told the wife about the valpo bball situation. Then showed her the joe mixon tape of him hitting the girl. He essentially got a redshirt out of situation. My wife and brother graduated from OU but that's the big difference from the P5 win at any cost universities compared to valpo.
Davidson and Sorolla aim to play big roles for VU
http://www.nwitimes.com/sports/college/valparaiso-university/davidson-and-sorolla-aim-to-play-big-roles-for-vu/article_1c3e634a-c7d8-586c-a357-f40907240e65.html
As much as Nick and J will be needed, I think the same can be said of Derrik and Micah. I suppose if Lexus gets in foul trouble you can shift Shane over to the point but he will be more effective off the ball, thus the need for Micah. As for Derrik, if J gets into foul trouble the answer is?? Alec.
Quote from: wh on December 17, 2016, 06:48:24 AM
Davidson and Sorolla aim to play big roles for VU
http://www.nwitimes.com/sports/college/valparaiso-university/davidson-and-sorolla-aim-to-play-big-roles-for-vu/article_1c3e634a-c7d8-586c-a357-f40907240e65.html
Could someone cut and paste Paul's article into a post for those of us who dont have a digital subscription?
Not sure why you can't open it. I don't have a subscription. In any event, here ya go:
Nick Davidson and Jaume Sorolla couldn't be more different if they tried.
Davidson is a senior nursing major from the Region, while Sorolla is a freshman international business major from the other side of the world in Tortosa, Spain.
Davidson has played less than 300 minutes during his collegiate career, while Sorolla has played in some of the biggest international basketball competitions that FIBA has to offer.
Different as they may be, Davidson and Sorolla have both been suddenly thrust into the spotlight for the Valparaiso basketball team, especially if Jubril Adekoya and Max Joseph will continue to be held out of action when Indiana State comes to the Athletics-Recreation Center tonight.
Adekoya and Joseph sat out last Saturday's game at Missouri State because of a "university matter." Valparaiso coach Matt Lottich offered no new information on either Adekoya or Joseph during his media availability session Thursday.
With Adekoya in street clothes, Sorolla started for the first time in his Valparaiso career. While his stat line of six points, three rebounds and one block wasn't staggering, the fact that Sorolla played the entire second half was much needed for the short-handed Crusaders. Despite playing all 20 minutes in the second half, Sorolla was never looking to come out of the game.
"Not really," Sorolla said. "I thought, first of all, that I can do that. After the game I thought 'wow, I'm not that tired.' Before the game I thought (playing a lot) could be possible."
"My mentality this year is to be prepared for every second and every minute that they need me to play."
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While those words came from Sorolla, they also echo the sentiment that Davidson has been bringing for his entire career since the 2013 Northwest Indiana Times Player of the Year came to Valparaiso from Andrean.
Davidson played sparingly under Bryce Drew for three years, but was given a new lease on his basketball life when Lottich took over the program this summer. The pair talked during the offseason about what Davidson needed to do to earn playing time as a senior. Lottich talked, Davidson listened and then went to work.
"It goes back to controlling what I can control," Davidson said. "Listening to what coach is trying to implement and then trying to do that to the best of my ability. Hopefully (during practice) I show him I have enough and he trusts me to go out there and do the game plan. At the end of the day I'm happy with whatever happens."
Davidson was a steadying force for the Crusaders at Kentucky as he helped slow down the Wildcats after their initial surge. Against Missouri State, Davidson delivered a career-high six assists and played the final seven minutes after Shane Hammink fouled out. It was the first time in his career that Davidson had been on the floor in the closing moments of a single possession game.
"He's been ready for it," Valparaiso star Alec Peters said. "Before the season I told him he needs to work harder than he's ever worked before. You have a coach now who is going to throw you out there and you need to be ready."
You don't need a subscription...just answer one question, or don't, and you go right to the article.
Quote from: ValpoFan1000 on December 16, 2016, 08:31:43 PM
Alright fellow board members I probably shouldn't do this and some may frown upon me for doing so but I am going to break the silence on the Jubril and max situation. I'm not gonna type out the whole story now. maybe some other time so let's go over some highlights. Basketball manager caught stealing from baseball team, kicked off of team, comes back later and asks lottich for a letter of recommendation, lottich says no, basketball manager begins to black mail jubril and max because he did some of their work, lottich questions max and jubril. Jubril admits, max does not. Jubril is probably out for season and max is unknown. That's everything you need to know.
And why should we believe this? I'm skeptical.
So much of that Jubril/Max story doesn't make sense. I can't imagine it being true and truly hope it isn't.
Quote from: DMvalpo18 on December 17, 2016, 10:41:55 AM
Quote from: ValpoFan1000 on December 16, 2016, 08:31:43 PM
Alright fellow board members I probably shouldn't do this and some may frown upon me for doing so but I am going to break the silence on the Jubril and max situation. I'm not gonna type out the whole story now. maybe some other time so let's go over some highlights. Basketball manager caught stealing from baseball team, kicked off of team, comes back later and asks lottich for a letter of recommendation, lottich says no, basketball manager begins to black mail jubril and max because he did some of their work, lottich questions max and jubril. Jubril admits, max does not. Jubril is probably out for season and max is unknown. That's everything you need to know.
And why should we believe this? I'm skeptical.
Because Chef is an impeccable source and he essentially confirmed it.
If this is true and can be proven, this is really bad. Like potentially program altering bad.
Quote from: vu84v2 on December 17, 2016, 11:03:15 AM
Quote from: DMvalpo18 on December 17, 2016, 10:41:55 AM
Quote from: ValpoFan1000 on December 16, 2016, 08:31:43 PM
Alright fellow board members I probably shouldn't do this and some may frown upon me for doing so but I am going to break the silence on the Jubril and max situation. I'm not gonna type out the whole story now. maybe some other time so let's go over some highlights. Basketball manager caught stealing from baseball team, kicked off of team, comes back later and asks lottich for a letter of recommendation, lottich says no, basketball manager begins to black mail jubril and max because he did some of their work, lottich questions max and jubril. Jubril admits, max does not. Jubril is probably out for season and max is unknown. That's everything you need to know.
And why should we believe this? I'm skeptical.
Because Chef is an impeccable source and he essentially confirmed it.
Fair enough, but I will maintain some skepticism until it is officially confirmed. It's a big accusation, although I'm not implying that I don't believe these guys are knights in shining armor who would never do something dishonest. It's very possible.
What could one possibly steal from the valpo baseball team? Why would someone ask for a letter of recommendation after being let go? What would this manager be black mailing jubril and max for? Who told lottich? Can anyone provide more details? This is horrible after such a great start to the season if true.
Well I'm sorry you're skeptical, but I promise we aren't just pulling your guys' leg. Unfortunately it is true. Basketball manager did work for max and jubril and got mad when lottich wouldn't sign a letter of recommendation so he told lottich about the work he did for our players. Not really sure how I could make this up but time will tell you all.
Quote from: NativeCheesehead on December 17, 2016, 11:12:12 AM
If this is true and can be proven, this is really bad. Like potentially program altering bad.
Covering it up might be program altering bad, which is something that didn't seem to have happened, since neither player played vs MO State. Players screw up all the time. It's the programs with no integrity that cover this stuff up that get in real trouble.
Even so, Penn State had officials that literally covered up child rape for years and they won the Big Ten a few years later. If child rape doesn't sink a program, I don't think a couple players cheating would either.
Quote from: M on December 17, 2016, 10:10:48 AM
You don't need a subscription...just answer one question, or don't, and you go right to the article.
That was what it use to be for me but on my iPad it only gives me a subscription choice. I'm OK on my iMac though.
Quote from: valpolaw on December 17, 2016, 11:26:53 AMWhat could one possibly steal from the valpo baseball team? Why would someone ask for a letter of recommendation after being let go? What would this manager be black mailing jubril and max for? Who told lottich? Can anyone provide more details? This is horrible after such a great start to the season if true.
Well apparently some baseball equipment was stolen from the little league field here in Valpo (Valpo Americans) around the same time so some believe it was this guy. Not really sure if the cops are looking into that i cant remember every detail of the story, but obviously this guy needed some equipment for some reason. I cant remember what the letter of recommendation was for exactly, maybe he just decided to ask Lottich because he had something on max and jubril so he figured he'd get it.
Are there legal charges or just discipline within the university?
Sounds like an honor code violation to me. Face the honor council I imagine and see how big the hammer is the drops.
Quote from: oklahomamick on December 17, 2016, 11:47:33 AMAre there legal charges or just discipline within the university?
My reading is that this guy may have done assignments (homework, tests or papers?) for Max and Jubril. Someone should correct me if I am wrong.
So now I'm wondering if getting a failing grade would somehow make the players ineligible and then the program might have to forfeit games in which they played? Obviously it is pre-conference but the image of the program would be hurt pretty badly when it hits ESPN.
The bigger question to me is how is the NCAA involved in such a scenario? I'm less concerned about what we (VU) will do than what is handed down from the NCAA?
In my mind this is a nothing burger for the program if it's a couple bad decisions by these two players. It's NCAA level sanctions (not sure they are warranted) that are my real concern.
Quote from: M on December 17, 2016, 11:51:43 AMSounds like an honor code violation to me. Face the honor council I imagine and see how big the hammer is the drops.
Agree, and the number of classes with violations may determine the number of F grades assigned. Looks like something that could be slow to completely sort out.
I don't see this as an NCAA sanction mater as long as we follow our standard honor code procedures.
Selfishly, this is a tough situation for fans to be in. Even tougher for families, players, coaches, and probably administrators. Best of luck to all those involved, figuring out how to move through this.
From what we've heard it sounds like it's being taken seriously, as it should be.
From the "searching hard for good news" department: at least the weather's cooperating. Forecast still for 5" of snow, and (record?) cold coming, but looks like nothing serious until we're all home from the game.
Osipoff seemed to have some idea of what was up yesterday in his game day piece for the Post Tribune.
Said Sorolla was likely to start, but seemed to think Joseph's disposition for today's game was less clear.
All but the loyal students are waiting for the Butler game.
I also doubt this would be an NCAA issue. Depending on the issues involved the players could be suspended for next semester. Looking forward to going to game and support the basketball team. I doubt even the beat writers have the entire story. Chef said enough to make me believe the issues are correct as stated. Lets all get out to the game and support out Team.
Sad news for the players.... (ALL OF THE PLAYERS) A bunch of great kids will be impacted and I just hope they all come out well on the other side....
Everyone makes mistakes - it does not mean that much for the program because it sound like they are addressing it. Just hope it does not ruin futures because it could.
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Quote from: vu72 on December 16, 2016, 11:22:37 AMThere just ATHLETES from 28 States and 9 foreign countries. I'm guessing at least 500 students fall into the previously mentioned 500 mile range, but given the length of break I suspect even someone from, say, Arizona or Florida may make the trip home.
Virtually everyone heads home. This particular break is pretty long. Classes don't begin again until Jan 11th. For some students who were done with finals early this past week, they have 4 full weeks off.
I'm also pretty sure that there is an additional charge to stay in the dorms which far exceed the cost of airfare to get home assuming that's an issue for those living in the US.
Quote from: FieldGoodie05 on December 17, 2016, 12:20:57 PMThe bigger question to me is how is the NCAA involved in such a scenario? I'm less concerned about what we (VU) will do than what is handed down from the NCAA? In my mind this is a nothing burger for the program if it's a couple bad decisions by these two players. It's NCAA level sanctions (not sure they are warranted) that are my real concern.
The grade isn't given until the end of the semester. So there shouldn't be any eligibility issues for this semester assuming this would put either player in a GPA or number credit ineligible situation.
Quote from: VU2624 on December 17, 2016, 03:58:33 PMQuote from: FieldGoodie05 on December 17, 2016, 12:20:57 PMThe bigger question to me is how is the NCAA involved in such a scenario? I'm less concerned about what we (VU) will do than what is handed down from the NCAA? In my mind this is a nothing burger for the program if it's a couple bad decisions by these two players. It's NCAA level sanctions (not sure they are warranted) that are my real concern.
The grade isn't given until the end of the semester. So there shouldn't be any eligibility issues for this semester assuming this would put either player in a GPA or number credit ineligible situation.
Most players stay in the summer take classes and have access to the athletic facilities.
Quote from: oklahomamick on December 17, 2016, 04:02:25 PMQuote from: VU2624 on December 17, 2016, 03:58:33 PMQuote from: FieldGoodie05 on December 17, 2016, 12:20:57 PMThe bigger question to me is how is the NCAA involved in such a scenario? I'm less concerned about what we (VU) will do than what is handed down from the NCAA? In my mind this is a nothing burger for the program if it's a couple bad decisions by these two players. It's NCAA level sanctions (not sure they are warranted) that are my real concern.
The grade isn't given until the end of the semester. So there shouldn't be any eligibility issues for this semester assuming this would put either player in a GPA or number credit ineligible situation.
Most players stay in the summer take classes and have access to the athletic facilities.
If you're referring to the basketball team I'd think you're right but I'm trying to figure out how your comment to my comment are connected. ???
Quote from: VU2624 on December 17, 2016, 03:51:00 PM
I'm also pretty sure that there is an additional charge to stay in the dorms which far exceed the cost of airfare to get home assuming that's an issue for those living in the US.
An additional charge would be new to me and somewhat surprising. It didn't catch my eye on the Res Life page this week, but I wasn't looking for it, and I don't know if I ever actually used break housing.
It doesn't sound unreasonable, I just don't remember ever hearing about it.
Reporters are stating Max is playing tonight but Jubril is still out. Still no comment from the athletics department.
My guess is an investigation is going on and they're being careful to not play with anyone who might later be ruled ineligible to risk vacating wins. My fear is that this was not something that happened just this semester/summer, but carried on last year as well.
I believe the managers on the team are usually students so hopefully a student to student situation is looked at as less serious than anything condoned from higher up.
Quote from: crusader05 on December 17, 2016, 06:07:54 PMReporters are stating Max is playing tonight but Jubril is still out. Still no comment from the athletics department. My guess is an investigation is going on and they're being careful to not play with anyone who might later be ruled ineligible to risk vacating wins. My fear is that this was not something that happened just this semester/summer, but carried on last year as well. I believe the managers on the team are usually students so hopefully a student to student situation is looked at as less serious than anything condoned from higher up.
If the speculation is true, it's odd that Max would be allowed to play but Jubril is not. Perhaps Max knew about it but didn't say anything? Or maybe he had nothing to do with it at all
MJ dressed and warming up. No JA in sight.
6:35p. Like a morgue with loud music playing.
Quote from: VU2624 on December 17, 2016, 04:42:17 PMQuote from: oklahomamick on December 17, 2016, 04:02:25 PMQuote from: VU2624 on December 17, 2016, 03:58:33 PMQuote from: FieldGoodie05 on December 17, 2016, 12:20:57 PMThe bigger question to me is how is the NCAA involved in such a scenario? I'm less concerned about what we (VU) will do than what is handed down from the NCAA? In my mind this is a nothing burger for the program if it's a couple bad decisions by these two players. It's NCAA level sanctions (not sure they are warranted) that are my real concern.
The grade isn't given until the end of the semester. So there shouldn't be any eligibility issues for this semester assuming this would put either player in a GPA or number credit ineligible situation.
Most players stay in the summer take classes and have access to the athletic facilities.
If you're referring to the basketball team I'd think you're right but I'm trying to figure out how your comment to my comment are connected. ???
eligibility is based on % credits towards your degree. Therefore, one can receive a couple "F's" or no credit for the courses but still be eligible based on credits earned towards a degree.
Anyone else lose sound?
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Quote from: oklahomamick on December 17, 2016, 07:10:29 PMQuote from: VU2624 on December 17, 2016, 04:42:17 PMQuote from: oklahomamick on December 17, 2016, 04:02:25 PMQuote from: VU2624 on December 17, 2016, 03:58:33 PMQuote from: FieldGoodie05 on December 17, 2016, 12:20:57 PMThe bigger question to me is how is the NCAA involved in such a scenario? I'm less concerned about what we (VU) will do than what is handed down from the NCAA? In my mind this is a nothing burger for the program if it's a couple bad decisions by these two players. It's NCAA level sanctions (not sure they are warranted) that are my real concern.
The grade isn't given until the end of the semester. So there shouldn't be any eligibility issues for this semester assuming this would put either player in a GPA or number credit ineligible situation.
Most players stay in the summer take classes and have access to the athletic facilities.
If you're referring to the basketball team I'd think you're right but I'm trying to figure out how your comment to my comment are connected. ???
eligibility is based on % credits towards your degree. Therefore, one can receive a couple "F's" or no credit for the courses but still be eligible based on credits earned towards a degree.
That's part of it. There is also minimum credit hours required.
Quote from: wh on December 17, 2016, 06:39:00 PM
MJ dressed and warming up. No JA in sight.
6:35p. Like a morgue with loud music playing.
Jubril's on the bench, in street clothes. Max has already seen minutes. And here comes Nick with a third of the first half left.
Alec with half our points, unusual in first half?, and sometimes through triple teams.
Quote from: Smj on December 17, 2016, 07:30:39 PMAnyone else lose sound? Sent from my SM-G920R4 using Tapatalk
Been gone for most of the game for me. WVUR's stream is working on their website, but it's a possession or two ahead of the video feed.
Humiliating effort so far. What is going on?
Quote from: hailcrusaders on December 17, 2016, 07:34:08 PM
Quote from: Smj on December 17, 2016, 07:30:39 PMAnyone else lose sound? Sent from my SM-G920R4 using Tapatalk
Been gone for most of the game for me. WVUR's stream is working on their website, but it's a possession or two ahead of the video feed.
Anyone know someone to text?
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Quote from: Smj on December 17, 2016, 07:36:56 PMQuote from: hailcrusaders on December 17, 2016, 07:34:08 PMQuote from: Smj on December 17, 2016, 07:30:39 PMAnyone else lose sound? Sent from my SM-G920R4 using Tapatalk
Been gone for most of the game for me. WVUR's stream is working on their website, but it's a possession or two ahead of the video feed.
Anyone know someone to text? Sent from my SM-G920R4 using Tapatalk
Twitter says that those who can do something about it are aware of the issue and working for a fix. Now that we're approaching halftime.
What a crap call to end the half. >:(
Quote from: oklahomamick on December 17, 2016, 07:51:03 PM
What a crap call to end the half. >:(
Point off emphasis - he kicked our player
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I'm getting the swoop at replays!! The audio is about 5 minutes ahead so can't listen to Todd. BS.
Quote from: WhatTheWORLD on December 17, 2016, 07:34:46 PMHumiliating effort so far. What is going on?
Troll? Or...? Because in the game I'm watching, Peters is going off and we're up 8 at half. Not perfect, but hardly humiliating.
Alex has had to have had one of the best halves in the country. 23-10!! Awesome!!
Todd has said the issue with the audio is in the ESPN3 system, and they've apparently taken it completely apart to find out what the problem is, and are working on it.
Quote from: agibson on December 17, 2016, 05:38:45 PMQuote from: VU2624 on December 17, 2016, 03:51:00 PMI'm also pretty sure that there is an additional charge to stay in the dorms which far exceed the cost of airfare to get home assuming that's an issue for those living in the US.
An additional charge would be need to me and somewhat surprising. It didn't catch my eye on the Res Life page this week, but I wasn't looking for it, and I don't know if I ever actually used break housing. It doesn't sound unreasonable, I just don't remember ever hearing about it.
I'm wrong. The extra cost is only for non school related i.e. athletic teams in season, 500 miles away, etc. You can get approval if you want to stay on campus maybe for job reasons but it costs $25 per day.
Quote from: oklahomamick on December 17, 2016, 07:51:03 PMWhat a crap call to end the half. >:(
Should have been a foul on the ISU player. Does college not have the kickout rule?
Really a fine half from both sides. Both teams with about 12 free throws. Only five turnovers per team. The difference at this point is Alec and free throws.
Quote from: vu72 on December 17, 2016, 07:54:54 PMAlex has had to have had one of the best halves in the country. 23-10!! Awesome!!
Todd just said a Valpo first half record for points.
Todd also said audio is fixed on ESPN but ESPN is a break right now.
Yeah... Sound is back....
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20-0 to start the second half, not bad.
Since Jubril was on the sideline is it safe to say we will see him in a valpo uniform down the road? He's not kicked off...?
Quote from: WhatTheWORLD on December 17, 2016, 07:34:46 PM
Humiliating effort so far. What is going on?
Lol, this guy.
Quote from: oklahomamick on December 17, 2016, 09:07:47 PMSince Jubril was on the sideline is it safe to say we will see him in a valpo uniform down the road? He's not kicked off...?
I'd think that if he was officially kicked off the team, they would have made an announcement. My guess is that they haven't decided on the consequences yet, and until then he's effectively (although unofficially) 'suspended indefinitely.'
If it
is academic dishonesty that we're looking at, that will probably take some time to investigate since it is a
university matter, in their words.
A really great performance against a team that beat Butler, and lost to Iowa State (then ranked 21) by 2 and to Stanford by 3. We are a very tough out and Alec Peters is the reason, pure and simple. Nice to also see progress for J and Micah. Even some progress from Derrik. How good is Tevone??
I'm guessing if this is one player with some academic cheating issues, and not a whole team over a period of years, the NCAA will let Valpo handle the disciplinary matters internally, rather than punishing the current team with losing games won with Jubril or Max in the game.
Quote from: vu72 on December 17, 2016, 09:16:46 PM
A really great performance against a team that beat Butler, and lost to Iowa State (then ranked 21) by 2 and to Stanford by 3. We are a very tough out and Alec Peters is the reason, pure and simple. Nice to also see progress for J and Micah. Even some progress from Derrik. How good is Tevon /quote]
On just a regular old jumper he must release at 30" of vertical or more. Incredible.
So that's what the team looks like when they're hitting those outside shots 💪🏀
This crew does not let distractions alter their drive. I think they've bought into the "just do your job when it's your turn." So mature. Are we building a "Valpo Way?"
Holding these guys together despite the JA/MJ thing and getting such a strong performance reflects so well on Matt.
http://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/ncaab/2016/12/17/valparaiso-rolls-to-89-71-win-over-indiana-state/95578184/
USAToday already has our result on the web. This is what a strong MBB program can bring to the table with only mild emphasis and B of T support. Imagine if we just kicked it up just one itty bitty notch.
Quote from: hailcrusaders on December 17, 2016, 09:16:28 PMQuote from: oklahomamick on December 17, 2016, 09:07:47 PMSince Jubril was on the sideline is it safe to say we will see him in a valpo uniform down the road? He's not kicked off...?
I'd think that if he was officially kicked off the team, they would have made an announcement. My guess is that they haven't decided on the consequences yet, and until then he's effectively (although unofficially) 'suspended indefinitely.' If it is academic dishonesty that we're looking at, that will probably take some time to investigate since it is a university matter, in their words.
If the Honor Council is involved in any fashion, it can take a while especially considering the scattering that will occur over the next few weeks.
I don't think it was ever said that Alec said a school record for points in a half. Ryan had 26 a number of years back in the first 20 minutes vs Bethune-Cookman.
Sspeaking from experience, whatever had happened with Joseph and Adekoya was simply a university issue on how to handle it. It is not widespread and comes from someone with limited credibility as he's a known thief. Now his allegations may ring some truth to them but the NCAA will allow Valpo a lot of leeway to handle it in house. I doubt they take it any further. With Joseph playing tonight allows one to believe it is now a one player issue. I hope for Jubril's sake it is nonsense and he will be back with the team for no other reasons than A. We need him and B. He came back and is playing his senior season. Such a good kid and deserving of going out on his terms. It's not a "scandal", it's isolated. The U is doing everything to ensure everything is on the up and up. The NCAA is not going to try an tag Valpo as a perennial Cheater either. Again, you have far from a credible witness.
I missed the game but as has been pointed out, we played a team that has some quality wins and quality losses. Decent RPI AND KENPOM ratings too. We beat them pretty handily. A quality non con win at the end of the day. Plus Kentucky just beat UNC today and that has to help RPI as well. How we went from KenPom rated 70 to 80 while beating Mo State on the road and having a very difficult NonCon schedule and being &-2 now 9-2 is beyond me. How I the hell does KenPom rate us being the 2nd luckiest team either? Where does that come from? We have been given no luck. Our 2 losses are to 2 teams ranked in the Top 30 and both were played on the road. I see our RPI AND kenPom rankings improving over time, I really do.
Quote from: ValpoDad89 on December 18, 2016, 02:04:14 AM
Sspeaking from experience, whatever had happened with Joseph and Adekoya was simply a university issue on how to handle it. It is not widespread and comes from someone with limited credibility as he's a known thief. Now his allegations may ring some truth to them but the NCAA will allow Valpo a lot of leeway to handle it in house. I doubt they take it any further. With Joseph playing tonight allows one to believe it is now a one player issue. I hope for Jubril's sake it is nonsense and he will be back with the team for no other reasons than A. We need him and B. He came back and is playing his senior season. Such a good kid and deserving of going out on his terms. It's not a "scandal", it's isolated. The U is doing everything to ensure everything is on the up and up. The NCAA is not going to try an tag Valpo as a perennial Cheater either. Again, you have far from a credible witness.
I missed the game but as has been pointed out, we played a team that has some quality wins and quality losses. Decent RPI AND KENPOM ratings too. We beat them pretty handily. A quality non con win at the end of the day. Plus Kentucky just beat UNC today and that has to help RPI as well. How we went from KenPom rated 70 to 80 while beating Mo State on the road and having a very difficult NonCon schedule and being &-2 now 9-2 is beyond me. How I the hell does KenPom rate us being the 2nd luckiest team either? Where does that come from? We have been given no luck. Our 2 losses are to 2 teams ranked in the Top 30 and both were played on the road. I see our RPI AND kenPom rankings improving over time, I really do.
Luck ratings come from playing in a bunch of close games. We've had 5 2nd half comebacks this year. It should decrease after the Indiana State game is calculated.
ISU reporter's thoughts as to whether Valpo would be a good fit for the MVC:
DOWN IN THE VALLEY: Valparaiso musings
By Todd Aaron Golden Tribune-Star • Valparaiso
http://www.tribstar.com/sports/down-in-the-valley-valparaiso-musings/article_b299c020-c4f8-11e6-bdfc-c78e07bf372c.html
"— It was my first trip to the Athletic and Recreation Center, the ARC as Valparaiso calls it. Until Saturday, it was the only Indiana Division I gym I hadn't been to. ISU dropped Valpo back in my early days on the beat. Why did ISU and Valpo not play for nearly a decade? To be honest, part of it was that Royce Waltman had zero use for long-time Valpo coach Homer Drew, and that's probably all I should say about that!
The ARC is a blend of Drake's Knapp Center and Eastern Illinois' Lantz Arena. That's not really a compliment. However, unlike either of those gyms (apart from 2007-08 at Drake), the atmosphere was better and credit to the Region residents (or Region Rats are they affectionately call themselves, but perhaps don't like being called by others) for ignoring the falling and eventually heavier snow that came down during the game.
Would Valpo fit in the MVC? I'm not sure. If Loyola is the standard, then I suppose Valpo fits. They're nominally in the Chicago market, although Valpo is long drive from Chicago proper (not even accounting for Dan Ryan or Skyway traffic), and count not a blip as far as Chicago's sports fans or media is concerned (though both NW Indiana dailies cover the Crusaders).
Unlike Loyola, Valpo has a recent tradition of winning, and seemingly, more enthusiasm. Their RPI is sky-high right now, and certainly on-the-court, the current Crusaders would be immediate MVC contenders.
Like Loyola, Valpo has a friendly vibe, right down to having one of the nuns help with pregame ceremonies.
Valpo would have a long way to go. The ARC would immediately be in last place in terms of basketball facilities. It's clear not much has been done to it since the 1980s. If WSU leaves, Valpo would certainly be on the expansion list again, as it was in 2013, but I think the MVC needs to spread its wings a bit too. If the MVC has to expand again, it shouldn't be a one-horse show anyway. I would bump membership up to 12."
Quote from: wh on December 18, 2016, 09:17:09 AMIt's clear not much has been done to it since the 1980s.
When evident to a first time visitor do we say we're waiting for it to become Wrigley Field age before we add any true updating to the ARC?
Here is the whole story from the Terre Haute newspaper from which wh posted a clip about Valpo's fit in the Valley. It is probably the longest newspaper article I have ever seen and as expected from a beat writer covering a team that just got hammered, a lot of hand wringing.
Indiana State's 72-71 win over No. 16 Butler on Dec. 7 will live long in the memory of every Sycamore fan who witnessed it, the coaches who game-planned it, and especially, the players who played in it.
The excellent performance and the fun that came afterwards, the court-storming, the woofing, etc., will be remembered far longer than ISU's 89-71 capitulation at Valparaiso on Saturday will be.
That will all be true down the line, but right now, in this moment? The Butler win might be the worst thing that could have happened to this set of Sycamores.
The last thing this team needed was to become over-confident. Yes, ISU beat Butler. Yes, ISU nearly beat Iowa State in Florida. Yes, until ISU's equally poor home loss to Western Kentucky last Sunday, they were 10 points away from being unbeaten.
But there's a double-edged sword to those close games no one would want to talk about. ISU was also 17 points away from being winless against Division I competition. They weren't some juggernaut in the making. They were a team that had to scrap for everything it got. It stayed in games because of a unity of purpose and a commitment to unselfish offense and solid defense.
The win over Butler didn't signal an arrival. It signaled what ISU was capable if they ever do arrive. One game does not an arrival make. A team has to back it up or that arrival becomes an aberration instead. An outlier.
ISU has failed miserably to back that upset win up. Sad to say, but they're the architects of their own shortcomings. They forgot what won them the Butler game, and some of the games before it, in the first place.
ISU shared the ball so well in its early season games. I think of Ball State, or Iowa State, or the second half against Utah State. The ball touched everyone, extra passes were made and good shots were available and taken.
I don't know where that went. On Saturday, ISU had six assists. Jordan Barnes was the only Sycamore who had two assists or more. Some of the shots attempted were just hopeless.
ISU players put themselves in untenable positions because they either refused to involve a teammate or fell victim to a bad decision that left them at the mercy of Valpo's defenders.
Part of the problem is a bad mix of over-confidence leading to a total lack of confidence. It's clear some of the players thought they could take the game in their own hands instead of playing to a team concept. The result is individual play that leads to horrible shot selection. There are several players, where, if the ball enters their hands, it isn't going to leave it.
The degree of guilt depends on the skill set. Some, like Brenton Scott, are good enough to get away with it, and you don't want Scott not to shoot. Others, like Donny Franklin and Niels Bunschoten are clearly trying to do things offensively they haven't proven they can do. They aren't playing within themselves.
Once your over-confidence is brought back to reality, the lack of confidence rushes in its place in no time flat. Then you get things like rushed shots and 3-point attempts where shooters aren't set. (Both Bunschoten and Matt Van Scyoc have done this.)
It's the opposite problem in the paint, where post players aren't being decisive going to the rim, though Emondre Rickman had his moments. The ball is being put on the floor or a ball-fake is being done without it being necessary. It screams that ISU's posts aren't confident in just making it simple and taking it to the rack.
As Greg Lansing pointed out after the game, when ISU's offense isn't functioning, it's only a matter of time before the defense goes too.
ISU lived on borrowed time and a couple of stops in the first half to stay within reasonable reach, but when ISU missed its first eight shots of the second half, their defensive will melted. The result was an embarrassing 20-0 Valpo run to start the second half.
How does Greg Lansing fix it? Yes, lineup changes can be made. Perhaps, it's time to give Emondre Rickman a longer look. Perhaps Bronson Kesssinger and Trey Knight too.
Those may help. but there's no magic bullet here. College basketball is a win-with-what-you-brung sport. ISU can't just cut some of its struggling players, or sign someone to a 10-day contract. It has to find a way to make their current players productive.
I chuckle when I see fans saying certain players shouldn't play. Then who should? At some point, you have to find a way to rely on players who may not be reliable at present. That's how this sport works.
The responsibility for regaining pride isn't just the job of the coaches. The players have to reset themselves and find it too. Honestly, I was pretty disturbed by some of the body language I saw in the game, even before it got ugly. The chemistry that was there earlier was clearly missing.
Greg Lansing said that ISU has been off in practice too. It's a cliche', but he's right in that the players have to commit themselves anew to working together.
The temptation to crack the whip will be palatable, but this might be the time to remind the players of what they were doing right before it went wrong.
I'd burn the Valpo tape, because I'm not sure negative reinforcement is the way to go. I'd whip out the Iowa State tape and show the players what they were doing right when it was going well, but more importantly, why they were doing it right and what they need to do to recover their mojo.
After all, it's only been 10 days since everything was peachy.
It seems like 10 years. The good news is that ISU does have time (and no classes for a few weeks) to fix it.
Offense
I addressed some of it above, but let's talk free throw shooting. ISU was 19 of 30 at the line.
ISU has shot the ball worse at the line, but the accumulation of misses has become a "thing" with this team. They practice free throws plenty, I see it all the time. I'm no coach, so I don't know what can be done to make ISU better at line other than continuing to take shots. Is it helpful to try to simulate a crowd while practicing them, kind of like how football coaches yell at field goal kickers (well, Trent Miles used to do it) when they practice their kicks? I don't know and I don't even know how you realistically simulate something like that.
What I do know is that it's demoralizing to miss free throws and that demoralization carries over to the defensive end. Especially when a team misses the front end of a one-and-one.
As for Brenton Scott, I'm concerned about his misses. He was 4 of 11 at the line. He air-balled two and had another that just barely drew rim. Again, I'm no coach, but it appeared he was short-arming his attempts. Obviously, Scott needs to fix it given how much he goes to the line.
Defense
Valpo went right for the jugular, scoring seemingly at will in the paint early (the Crusaders ended up with 30 points in the paint) and then using penetration to draw defense and kick to open shooters. Alec Peters' presence makes that plan easier to execute than it is for other teams, but ISU played right into their hands.
Rebounding continues to kill the Sycamores. Valpo's edge was 49-31, and incredibly, Peters and Jarume Sorolla had more rebounds (27) than all of ISU's individuals combined (25). The team leader in rebounds should never be "Team" the statistical term used for loose balls and possession calls that go out of bounds. Those aren't true rebounds. Team had six for ISU. Rickman was next closest with five.
Players
Note: In this space, we'll discuss some, but not all, players who played.
Brenton Scott (18 points, 4 steals) - Despite the 18 points, it wasn't Scott best night. Most of his points were scored with the game well out of hand.
Scott was in Lansing's crosshairs after the game. As my game story states, Lansing puts the onus on Scott for setting the bad example of individual play.
http://www.tribstar.com/sports/local_college_sports/isu_sports/sycamores-buried-under-valpo-onslaught/article_6844c334-7255-5b0f-b629-aace2db60dec.html
There's some truth to what Lansing is saying, Scott is always standing on the verge of control and lack of it, but Scott is also capable of playing "individual" and is skilled enough to get away with it at times. What his teammates need to realize is that they can't get away with it. There is one Brenton Scott on this team, and no one else can really create something from nothing as he sometimes does.
Scott also has to know that he can't create something from nothing every time he touches the ball either. Lansing noted after the game, within earshot of Scott, that he had no assists. That's a tad unfair, Scott dished a few times and teammates didn't convert.
Operative phrase there is "a few". Scott can stand to trust his teammates a bit more and then maybe they start to get better and get some productive confidence. Fake confidence is his teammates thinking they can do what Scott can do and get selfish with the ball. Only he's proven he can.
Everett Clemons (19 points) - Clemons was probably ISU's best player. He single-handedly led ISU to a brief first half lead when he noted that Valpo was playing off of him and attacked the basket. He even shot, and made, an open 3-pointer.
The only thing Clemons didn't do was rebound, he had two boards. We've been spoiled by Clemons' rebounding, two rebounds from any other point guard would be completely normal. Sadly, ISU needs every rebound Clemons can get.
Emondre Rickman (6 points, 5 rebounds) - Was it a breakout performance? Hardly, but I thought Rickman at least brought some energy and assertiveness to the table. Five rebounds in 20 minutes is at least respectable, unlike virtually anyone else who ought to be rebounding. He also had two blocks and a steal.
Rickman's man-on-man defense (much different than his obvious ability as a rim protector) and concentration is what holds him back. Hard to fix that from the bench. T.J. Bell's exit gives Rickman minutes he wasn't getting. Let's see what he can do with it.
Other observations
— Did ISU miss T.J. Bell? Well, of course, ISU could have used him to help defend the paint. ISU's depth has been compromised at the five-spot and Bell's intelligence is missed when it came to defensive know-how, etc.
However, was his departure some sort of cloud that hung over the players? I'd be very wary about over-thinking that.
The details of Bell's departure were not made public, of course, other than that he left for personal reasons. I've heard some things privately that will remain private since I was told off-the-record, but I haven't heard both sides, and I won't engage in he-said, he-said since no one wants to talk on the record.
The only comments from Bell have been some tweets (some since deleted) that, frankly, came off a bit immature. I like Bell, even though it was clear he was shy and not comfortable talking to the media. (Which is fine. Athletes don't owe reporters an outward nature.) I hope he finds some peace of mind.
Bottom line is that Bell is gone and ISU has to move on, just as anyone else does in life when someone leaves a job. Using Bell's departure as an excuse for any of the horror that happened on Saturday is too easy and abrogates the players who played from their own responsibility in their undoing.
– Is Peters a future NBA player? Maybe. The offensive skill set is all there. He can hurt you inside and out. He's got a big body. He makes free throws. He hits the boards. He's perhaps the best player ISU has seen this season.
My question on him is twofold: where would he play and can he defend? He wouldn't be a four in the NBA, he would be a three, or even a two. Can Peters defend NBA shooting guards or small forwards? Not sure about that. I suppose Doug McDermott has carved out a niche with the Bulls. Peters is bigger (more accurately, wider) than McDermott, but their games translate similarly.
– It was great to see former ISU assistant coach Dave Ragland before the game. He's one of my favorite coaches that have cycled through ISU. We talked about our kids -- his were babies when he was here and mine were in grade school. Now his are in grade school and mine are in high school or about to be.
Rags is one of the really good guys. He is missed and it showed when everyone from ISU who knew him wanted to say hi and catch up ... ISU coaches included.
— It was my first trip to the Athletic and Recreation Center, the ARC as Valparaiso calls it. Until Saturday, it was the only Indiana Division I gym I hadn't been to. ISU dropped Valpo back in my early days on the beat. Why did ISU and Valpo not play for nearly a decade? To be honest, part of it was that Royce Waltman had zero use for long-time Valpo coach Homer Drew, and that's probably all I should say about that!
The ARC is a blend of Drake's Knapp Center and Eastern Illinois' Lantz Arena. That's not really a compliment. However, unlike either of those gyms (apart from 2007-08 at Drake), the atmosphere was better and credit to the Region residents (or Region Rats are they affectionately call themselves, but perhaps don't like being called by others) for ignoring the falling and eventually heavier snow that came down during the game.
Would Valpo fit in the MVC? I'm not sure. If Loyola is the standard, then I suppose Valpo fits. They're nominally in the Chicago market, although Valpo is long drive from Chicago proper (not even accounting for Dan Ryan or Skyway traffic), and count not a blip as far as Chicago's sports fans or media is concerned (though both NW Indiana dailies cover the Crusaders).
Unlike Loyola, Valpo has a recent tradition of winning, and seemingly, more enthusiasm. Their RPI is sky-high right now, and certainly on-the-court, the current Crusaders would be immediate MVC contenders.
Like Loyola, Valpo has a friendly vibe, right down to having one of the nuns help with pregame ceremonies.
Valpo would have a long way to go. The ARC would immediately be in last place in terms of basketball facilities. It's clear not much has been done to it since the 1980s. If WSU leaves, Valpo would certainly be on the expansion list again, as it was in 2013, but I think the MVC needs to spread its wings a bit too. If the MVC has to expand again, it shouldn't be a one-horse show anyway. I would bump membership up to 12.
Overview
It was a terrible performance, even taking into account Valpo's excellence, and it being a road game, etc. Next up is Eastern Illinois, who ISU lost to last year in Charleston, Ill. in equally embarrassing fashion. The Panthers are hot on the heels of a win at Missouri. Unless ISU's commitment changes, it will be in for more pain at Hulman Center on Wednesday.
I love this post by Blue thunder on the ISU board. Hysterical!
Maybe our second half strategy to keep Peters from scoring was to let them get so far ahead that he comes out of game and never comes back in.
Brillant move by Lansing.
It was my first trip to the Athletic and Recreation Center, the ARC as Valparaiso calls it. Until Saturday, it was the only Indiana Division I gym I hadn't been to. ISU dropped Valpo back in my early days on the beat. Why did ISU and Valpo not play for nearly a decade? To be honest, part of it was that Royce Waltman had zero use for long-time Valpo coach Homer Drew, and that's probably all I should say about that!
I wonder what the Waltman / Drew problem was all about?
Quote from: IndyValpo on December 19, 2016, 10:24:32 AM
It was my first trip to the Athletic and Recreation Center, the ARC as Valparaiso calls it. Until Saturday, it was the only Indiana Division I gym I hadn't been to. ISU dropped Valpo back in my early days on the beat. Why did ISU and Valpo not play for nearly a decade? To be honest, part of it was that Royce Waltman had zero use for long-time Valpo coach Homer Drew, and that's probably all I should say about that!
I wonder what the Waltman / Drew problem was all about?
Did we/Homer run up the score against DePauw or UIndy prior to Waltman's time at ISU?
Quote from: covufan on December 19, 2016, 12:00:55 PM
Quote from: IndyValpo on December 19, 2016, 10:24:32 AM
It was my first trip to the Athletic and Recreation Center, the ARC as Valparaiso calls it. Until Saturday, it was the only Indiana Division I gym I hadn't been to. ISU dropped Valpo back in my early days on the beat. Why did ISU and Valpo not play for nearly a decade? To be honest, part of it was that Royce Waltman had zero use for long-time Valpo coach Homer Drew, and that's probably all I should say about that!
I wonder what the Waltman / Drew problem was all about?
Did we/Homer run up the score against DePauw or UIndy prior to Waltman's time at ISU?
I have a feeling it had to do with possibly Waltman's resentment of religion in coaching. The Drews have used one way and only one way of coaching. Waltman was a good guy who died of cancer in 2014. His coaching tree is a goood one covering Mississippi State, UIndy, Clemson (Brownell), and also Keith Smart in the NBA and dumbass Dakich, who because he can't coach whines about coaching on TV broadcasts and radio shows.
Does anyone know when we may hear more on Jubril's situation?
Quote from: valpolaw on December 19, 2016, 07:04:51 PMDoes anyone know when we may hear more on Jubril's situation?
Typically it's tight lipped about anything like this because of privacy issues. So unless he is removed from the roster, my suspicion is the next bit of information (officially) we get is when he shows up in uniform.