I know this is not the best time to start this string, but USAToday did a forward look today at next season and projected the Top 25. They picked both Florida State (22) and St. Mary's (24) to be in the mix. And we beat them both. Hmmmm :-\
http://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/ncaab/2016/04/05/college-basketball-early-preseason-top-25-duke-kentucky/82517880/
Both return their head coaches. St. Mary's returns it's top 8 scorers (sounds like us from a year ago). FSU has a top 10 recruiting class coming in. Rankings seem justified, maybe even low.
Assuming Peters came back, Valpo would hypothetically be very competitive with top WCC teams next year. Valpo would be every bit as good as Saint Mary's, Gonzaga and BYU.
Bryce's departure is an obvious hurdle; however, USA Today's prediction probably predated Bryce's departure by several days or more.
Most press predictions will likely disregard Valpo because of the departure of Vashil and the probable departure of the Floor General (i.e., Keith). Because of Vashil's blocks, he attained national notoriety. I have no idea how far Smits has progressed, but Vashil was an offensive non-factor on many occasions, so if Smits has bulked up and is a good positional rebounder, he can add substantially more overall than Vashil. We will miss Vashil's blocks and court presence, but we were never a center-dominated team. I have no idea what will happen with the point guard position.
The guys (other than Alec) will have to elevate their rebounding and eliminate the inconsistent free throw shooting. As we all know, so many close games are won (or lost) on free throw shooting -- beginning early in the game. Alec's outstanding rebounding compensated for other guys' mediocre rebounding.
Historically, many highly ranked teams have done very well by maximizing the skills of athletic and strong rebounding guards, so rebounding is something in which guys such as Tevon can excel. Shane is somewhat of an "X" factor. He is an excellent penetrating and slashing forward (or stretch 2), but he makes some puzzling decisions on the floor. If he can eliminate that inconsistency, he will be terrific. I am not sure about Skara. I thought he would be further along than he is at this point, regardless of the injury. Jubril is solid and will continue to be a valuable contributor.
We will be better than the media "experts" predict, but whether we are top-25 remains to be seen.
Next season is going to be the most important season for the program. Do they continue to build upon what Bryce did or do they fall back down with the rest of the HL. Like everyone else, I hope nobody transfers and if we return everybody I believe we'll be in good shape. Hopefully Lexus can return to the form he was before all the injuries. To me he's the most logical choice as the PG. Let us not forget he was on the all-freshmen team along with Alec a few seasons ago.
I think Max Joseph will be a good point and probably the starter.
Quote from: oklahomamick on April 05, 2016, 11:19:50 AM
I think Max Joseph will be a good point and probably the starter.
Think again.
Agreed. I think if we can maintain our roster without any transfers it will help put us on solid footing for competing for the HL title next season, and give a spring board for recruiting to show recruits next year that Valpo is still one of the better mid-major programs.
As for your point on Lexus. I've been extremely curious as to why he hardly got any playing time this year. I know he had the ACL injury, but is the athleticism gone? Or was it that we had Keith as our starter playing big minutes, but even when we took keith out this season Bryce would put Hammink or even E. Victor at point sometimes and it was sort of maddening to me. Hammink is not a good ball handler. He just isn't, but his main game is using superior athleticism to drive to the rim which I get he needs to ball in his hands to do that, because he doesn't have a great jump shot or at least didn't this season. But going back to Lexus, he was a very affective PG his freshman year playing big minutes and was a very good on the ball defender his freshman year and we just didn't see him enough to evaluate him.
To be honest I think Micah Bradford is going to play big time minutes next season, sort of how Lexus did his freshman year. I'm not sure how his defensive game game is but I know he's a pretty good at finishing at the hoop and he has a sweet jump shot from long range that could draw out defenders to keep them honest. I'm really excited about Micah Bradford and hoping he'll stay with us.
Max Joesph seems like a sort of a combo guard to me. We really have never got see him play too much but from what I've seen he's pretty athletic but sort of plays out of control sometimes. It should be interesting to see how roster will be used next season with the guards since we'll be graduating D. Walker, K Carter, and E. Victor. There are definitely going to opportunities for guys to grab a job. I'm hoping T. Walker can work on his jump shot this summer. He always seemed pretty hesitant shooting the ball from the perimeter and we'll miss Darien Walker playing that role. D. Walker was a pretty streaky shooter but he was never afraid to take the shot and made the defender play solid man to man.
Here's the latest writeup on Derrik Smits. He's weighing in at 247 lbs. these days.
http://www.indystar.com/story/sports/high-school/2016/05/13/derrik-smits-ready-get-started-again/84336114/
[tweet]731296637499416577[/tweet]
Quote from: VULB#62 on May 15, 2016, 02:16:34 PM
Here's the latest writeup on Derrik Smits. He's weighing in at 247 lbs. these days.
http://www.indystar.com/story/sports/high-school/2016/05/13/derrik-smits-ready-get-started-again/84336114/
[tweet]731296637499416577[/tweet]
The good:
Derrik is the same height as Alec Brown, but 25 lbs. heavier.
The bad:
Derrik is taking 12 hours over 2 summer sessions. Obviously, he is looking to graduate in 3 years with 2 years of playing eligibility remaining. If he performs well over the next 2 seasons, D-1 Majors everywhere will be covertly sending word through channels and sources that they would like Derrik to express an interest in them. Yes, folks, that's the way it works (even at Michigan State - someone get ready to revive valpospartan after he reads this).
Those teams should be ranked ahead of Valpo going into next year.
Max has zero offensive game, so far. Bradford should be the starter if he's as good as advertised.
If Smits ends up good enough to move on in a few years then Valpo should be fun to watch the next two years and ha E a lot of success too.
Max's shooting form is not good. He doesn't begin his shooting motion until he has nearly reached the peak of his elevation, then releases the ball on his descent. In effect, he has 2 opposing vertical motions -arms going up while body is coming down. It's not unlike shooting a fadeaway except a fadeaway has 2 conflicting horizontal motions- body motion is going away from the target, arms are going toward it.
I hope Matt is a stickler for proper form.
Wasn't it Waters at CSU who mentioned that he is no longer letting his kids take summer classes to graduate in 3 years? I guess that they could pay for it on their own, but I believe that we have to give permission for our scholarship athletes to take summer courses to get ahead?
I was at commencement today and I was surprised to see Jubril Adekoya getting his bachelor degree :o.
I am glad no one is talking about him transferring out.
Bryce came back as well to keep a promise to Darien.
http://www.tennessean.com/story/sports/college/vanderbilt/2016/05/15/vanderbilts-bryce-drew-keeps-promise-valparaiso-graduation/84417272/
[tweet]732024016240807936[/tweet]
Hmmmmm.... I wonder what other discussions with former and current players might have ensued?
Wow Derrik Smits is taking 12 credits? That's a clear sign he's setting himself up for early graduation and giving himself the option to transfer out very early. It's not out of the ordinary for college basketball players to taking 3-6 credits during the summer to take a lighter course load during the school year to lighten the burden during the season. I took summer school course on campus with Rowdy, Vucic, and a couple other players years ago. 12 credits in the summer on top of playing with the Dutch team is an extremely busy summer to say the least.
Really excited about Micah! He has a ton of potential on the court and sounds like a great kid. https://twitter.com/barrybradford3/status/732334001399140352
Quote from: VU2014 on May 16, 2016, 07:28:14 PM
Really excited about Micah! He has a ton of potential on the court and sounds like a great kid. https://twitter.com/barrybradford3/status/732334001399140352
No doubt about his potential but he looks like a strong wind would be a problem. Hit the weights young man! You have a VERY bright future wearing the Brown and Gold!!!
Quote from: VULB#62 on May 15, 2016, 02:16:34 PM
Here's the latest writeup on Derrik Smits. He's weighing in at 247 lbs. these days.
http://www.indystar.com/story/sports/high-school/2016/05/13/derrik-smits-ready-get-started-again/84336114/
Quote"I'm about 25 pounds heavier than I was when I graduated," he said. "Obviously that jumps me up another level, which is awesome. I used to get beat up by Vashil, and now I'm holding my own against him. He can't back me down very easily.
Glad to hear they got in some good sparring time.
Valpo will be holding a reception with season ticket holders to welcome Coach Lottich on June 9. By then, the decision by Peters will be known and maybe new recruits will be named. Therefore, this event just a bit more than two weeks away will represent the symbolic start to what Athletics is describing as "a new era of basketball for the Crusaders." This could be a good way for everyone to turn the page and look forward to the new season and a new direction.
Sounds like an exciting and newsy event. Unfortunately, wife and I will be in STT for several weeks starting next Tuesday. Hopefully, my daughter can go and report back.
Quote from: wh on May 22, 2016, 10:43:38 AMUnfortunately, wife and I will be in STT
Is STT the airport code of St Thomas in the Virgin Islands?
Quote from: bbtds on May 22, 2016, 04:35:10 PM
Quote from: wh on May 22, 2016, 10:43:38 AMUnfortunately, wife and I will be in STT
Is STT the airport code of St Thomas in the Virgin Islands?
Wondering the same. If so sucks to be WH. ;)
Quote from: VULB#62 on May 22, 2016, 05:20:53 PM
Quote from: bbtds on May 22, 2016, 04:35:10 PM
Quote from: wh on May 22, 2016, 10:43:38 AMUnfortunately, wife and I will be in STT
Is STT the airport code of St Thomas in the Virgin Islands?
Wondering the same. If so sucks to be WH. ;)
Yes, kind of our home away from home and a place we have made a lot of great memories for the past 23 years.
DEFINITELY sucks to be you (destination dropper!). Always use Charlotte Amalie as jumping off place for the BVIs. Enjoy island time.
Quote from: VULB#62 on May 22, 2016, 05:54:53 PM
DEFINITELY sucks to be you (destination dropper!). Always use Charlotte Amalie as jumping off place for the BVIs. Enjoy island time.
LOL. Sorry, no pity for a guy who hangs out in the BVI's. :)
Quote from: wh on May 22, 2016, 06:54:00 PM
Quote from: VULB#62 on May 22, 2016, 05:54:53 PM
DEFINITELY sucks to be you (destination dropper!). Always use Charlotte Amalie as jumping off place for the BVIs. Enjoy island time.
LOL. Sorry, no pity for a guy who hangs out in the BVI's. :)
Au contrar, it's one of the two best bareboat sailing grounds in the Caribbean. The Greadines being the other. I'll be down there (BVI) in January. Regarless i envy your time in paradise.
Word is that Valpo will play Kentucky at Rupp Arena.
Kentucky will be a top-5 team in 2016-2017. They have a good chance to be the top-ranked team. If we play Kentucky close (i.e., within 10 points), that will be more attractive to the "experts" (including the NCAA "experts") than any of our wins this past season. If we do indeed play the Cats, my hat is off to them for having the guts to schedule us.
I wish we could also play Oregon again. They, too, will be a top-10 (possibly top-5) team. Can you imagine our RPI after playing Kentucky and Oregon?
Sure hope it happens.
Might help in retaining Peters as well, since he would be playing at one of the top teams in the nation, where he can showcase himself more.
Quote from: valpotx on May 23, 2016, 06:58:46 PM
Might help in retaining Peters as well, since he would be playing at one of the top teams in the nation, where he can showcase himself more.
Felder made a lasting impression with his high scoring last year vs, MSU and other P5 teams. Couldn't hurt. And that might be a strategy Matt will adopt i.e., go Kampe, and play body bag games to up the RPI and showcase Alec (and win a couple).
50% water, 50% air = a full glass. Holding out for Alec to return and be even more dominant and for Keith's appeal to be upheld. With Derrik at the 5 and most but Skara back we could be more of a monster than this year.
Quote from: wh on May 22, 2016, 05:36:28 PM
Quote from: VULB#62 on May 22, 2016, 05:20:53 PM
Quote from: bbtds on May 22, 2016, 04:35:10 PM
Quote from: wh on May 22, 2016, 10:43:38 AMUnfortunately, wife and I will be in STT
Is STT the airport code of St Thomas in the Virgin Islands?
Wondering the same. If so sucks to be WH. ;)
Yes, kind of our home away from home and a place we have made a lot of great memories for the past 23 years.
Then as Rowdy would say, Good on you!
Mid-Major Madness reaction to Alec's return to Valpo for next season:
http://www.midmajormadness.com/2016/6/2/11826016/alec-peters-return-valparaiso-crusaders-horizon-league-impact
LaBarbera mentioned this evening that there will be a lot of home games in the 2016-2017 schedule—probably 17, one of which will be an exhibition. Lottich seemed to indicate the first two games in the Las Vegas tournament will be home games at the ARC, and two more will take place in Las Vegas. Apparently, the schedule is nearly complete with only one game to be finalized.
I like the sound of lots of home games!!
Great news valpopal. Thanks for that update!
Hopefully we get some solid mid-majors into the ARC, since we all know that it won't be P5 teams (pansies) :)
Here's a repost from the Recruiting 2016 string that also fits here. Matt is not reluctant to talk shop. That's good in my book and gives us a view toward the coming season (which is only 4 ½ months away). :dance:
On style of play and the use of the "point forward".....
[tweet]742813985293111296[/tweet]
And this....
[tweet]742814346078740480[/tweet]
I also received some information from ML that he does not expect to hear about the decision on Keith until the end of July. He mentioned that he can never predict what the NCAA will do, so he is taking the stance that it will be denied, so that he won't be so disappointed if that is indeed the decision and, if not, he will be ecstatic ;D
Butler released their non-conf schedule. Valpo isn't on it, of course.
They are hosting the likes of Northern Colorado, Bucknell, and Norfolk State. And going on the road to Indiana State.
I think we already knew they were playing Vanderbilt inVegas.
Well, BD get's a chance to lengthen his string.
Sorry 21, but couldn't pass up Paul's spin..... :rotfl:
[tweet]743504165444395008[/tweet]
Quote from: VULB#62 on June 16, 2016, 02:38:02 PM
Sorry 21, but couldn't pass up Paul's spin..... :rotfl:
[tweet]743504165444395008[/tweet]
Surprised Tom Davis didn't tweet a response.... or maybe he is just too stunned after seeing his buddy Todd kill it at the WSOP!
FW alum: did you notice that in his wrap-up of the IN All-Star series last weekend, Davis only mentioned 2 players that were associated with their college choices for 16-17? One guy and one gal...with both going to Butler this fall.
Alright, OklahomaMick has convinced a fellow alum to jump on the boards with a voice. First time poster, long time follower...who is our starting five + first two reserves off the bench?
Max Joseph PG
Shane Hammink SG
Alec Peters SF
Adekoya PF
Smits C
-Tevon
-Micah
Max won't start, shouldn't start...and hopefully will only see mop up minutes unless he's improved by leaps and bounds.
I'm most tepid on Max in his limited roll, but do Lexus or Micah step in to steal starting minutes? July 09th seems like forever to know on KC...
I'd speculate that the PG spot goes Carter or Bradford maybe Hammink. Tevonn is a starter along with Peters. Then do you go big with Smits at the 5 or smaller with Jubril at the 5. Lots of fun combinations to think about.
Hammink is not the guy to be at PG.
Quote from: Just Sayin on June 16, 2016, 10:24:46 PMHammink is not the guy to be at PG.
Shane playing 5 to 9 minutes per game at point doesn't put me in a panic but if it gets nearer 20 I might have to double my blood pressure meds.
Stop trying to make PG Hammink happen. It's not going to happen.
Its hard to predict lineups at this point because the roster isn't even set. If I had to guess, I think the starting lineup probably looks like:
G Lexus
G Tevonn
G Hammink
F Peters
F Jubril
Smits will get a bunch of minutes at the 5 when Valpo goes big... probably moving Jubril to PF, Peters to SF, Micah to SG or PG. Bradford may not start at the beginning, but he'll get a ton of minutes, probably more than Lexus.
Sorrola should get a few minutes at the 4 and 5.
Joseph might be left out as the 3rd PG. He needs confidence and his defense is a liability.
Mop up:
C ChaLivSim
PG/SG Davidson
?? New Guy
I'm thinking Matt will deveop depth at PG with true PGs. Betting they work on Max alot in the offseason. Micah is heir apparent -- he will get lots of PT too. Also think Matt will minimize any disruption in rhythm/style that a point fwd introduces.
Quote from: valpo64 on June 16, 2016, 06:22:49 PM
FW alum: did you notice that in his wrap-up of the IN All-Star series last weekend, Davis only mentioned 2 players that were associated with their college choices for 16-17? One guy and one gal...with both going to Butler this fall.
Yes, it is pretty much Butler Central here in Fort Wayne. Lots of column inches dedicated to the Bulldogs and their recruits in the last couple of weeks. I will give Tom some credit for this really good Butler story about the special needs basketball camp that Butler runs. http://www.news-sentinel.com/sports/Butler-hoop-camp-proves--enlightening----for-the-coaches (http://www.news-sentinel.com/sports/Butler-hoop-camp-proves--enlightening----for-the-coaches)
Maybe not, but he is the guy with the most experience. I fully expect Bradford to be running the show by the time conference ay begins if not before, ya know assuming the NCAA continues their hose job of KC.
I would be surprised if Derrik isn't starting. My guess is that Bradford starts at the point unless Lexus has dramatically improved. So I would think the starting five will be Alec, Derrik, Tevonn, Shane and Micah.
Quote from: vu72 on June 17, 2016, 07:56:32 AM
I would be surprised if Derrik isn't starting. My guess is that Bradford starts at the point unless Lexus has dramatically improved. So I would think the starting five will be Alec, Derrik, Tevonn, Shane and Micah/Keith(?).
Me too. At 7'1", 250# just
standing-flat footed in the paint with his arms up is a pretty big deterrent. Especially against shorter centers, it would be hard to stop the high lob into the post at the other end as well. And being an optimist, I'd hedge a bet and adjust your PG slot just a tad (above). ;)
Jubril will be the 1st off the bench and rotate between the 4 and 5 (Alec being the 3 based on all we've heard since his return from the pro try-outs and will probably be in the 34-36 minute range). Jubril's minutes will increase significantly over last season. Lexus makes a comeback and rotates in at the point.
Don't you think Matt will go back to a 7 man core rotation from the 9 man core last season? There just doesn't seem to be that need to spread the minutes to keep everyone happy that was a perception (at least by me) last season. Sorolla will be brought along gradually and his minutes will increase the deeper we get into the season. And Max, Nick and Chandler will get their usual quota of minutes.
To me the main question about Smits is not whether he will start -- even if he doesn't, he'll get plenty of minutes -- but whether he stays healthy. Seems to be injury prone.
Paul
I think Smits will start off the bench. Jubril has earned his time and is a senior. Smits may end up getting more minutes, but I feel Jubril will start until conference starts. Smits is still a freshman that will be a bit of a project at first.
Quote from: justducky on June 16, 2016, 10:42:17 PM
Quote from: Just Sayin on June 16, 2016, 10:24:46 PMHammink is not the guy to be at PG.
Shane playing 5 to 9 minutes per game at point doesn't put me in a panic but if it gets nearer 20 I might have to double my blood pressure meds.
Both of you make a "just" point. :-)
Couldn't resist!
Hasn't been mentioned here yet, but St Louis is the last team added in the Las Vegas tournament. This creates a really interesting scenario if Carter comes back. The field should be pretty decent with BYU and Alabama. Minnesota was also rumored to participate, but I don't think that's the case anymore (thank god, they'd be an RPI killer).
Good point on Minnesota.
Quote from: a3uge on June 18, 2016, 09:45:31 AM
Hasn't been mentioned here yet, but St Louis Saint Louis is the last team added in the Las Vegas tournament. This creates a really interesting scenario if Carter comes back. The field should be pretty decent with BYU and Alabama. Minnesota was also rumored to participate, but I don't think that's the case anymore (thank god, they'd be an RPI killer).
Isn't actually the same without Jim Crews and most of the team (except for one player, I believe) being there.
It would be like Valpo playing Ole Miss again without Bryce as coach and none of the former players (from '98) being involved with the team.
Does anyone know the dates of the Las Vegas Classics
Paul was at the ARC today. Here's some intelligence on our guard situation for this coming season. I like what he said about Lexus -- that kid deserves some good breaks..
[tweet]745071866092544000[/tweet]
Keith and OU's Felder each demonstrated how important a good PG is to a team's offense. Keith from a management perspective and Felder from a penetrate and create offense perspective. Micah and Lexus (fingers crossed based on one Summer observation) look like they can be the depth we need to be solid at that position whether or not Keith is vindicated.
Agree? Disagree?
Ah, but can they run Matt's new offense? I say yes, based only on what I see on social media -- he's got the players' attention and involvement. His teams will be involved, intense and emotional. This is gonna be a fun ride in 16-17.
Of course you must take these comments in the context of a rah rah FB guy who only knows basketball from playing it through HS -- Lutheran HS AA yet not good enough at 18 pts /game to get a look from Paul Meadows (Thanks, I needed to get that off my chest. :'( ). AndI must also mention that I was a fraternity brother of most of the 1966 and 67 teams (except Tom Smith) that blew teams off the floor, and I once stuffed HOFer Vern Curtis in a pick up game (by holding his shorts) :rotfl: Vern BTW was the poster boy of the natural scorer. He had, maybe on a good day, a 12" vertical leap, but could score on anybody any time (except if they were holding onto his shorts). Of course all my bono fides are meaningless, but I had fun stating them. Jeez, I loved my 4 years there.
Quote from: VULB#62 on June 21, 2016, 12:46:51 AM
Keith and OU's Felder each demonstrated how important a good PG is to a team's offense. Keith from a management perspective and Felder from a penetrate and create offense perspective. Micah and Lexus (fingers crossed based on one Summer observation) look like they can be the depth we need to be solid at that position whether or not Keith is vindicated.
Agree? Disagree?
Ah, but can they run Matt's new offense? I say yes, based only on what I see on social media -- he's got the players' attention and involvement. His teams will be involved, intense and emotional. This is gonna be a fun ride in 16-17.
Of course you must take these comments in the context of a rah rah FB guy who only knows basketball from playing it through HS -- Lutheran HS AA yet not good enough at 18 pts /game to get a look from Paul Meadows (Thanks, I needed to get that off my chest. :'( ). AndI must also mention that I was a fraternity brother of most of the 1966 and 67 teams (except Tom Smith) that blew teams off the floor, and I once stuffed HOFer Vern Curtis in a pick up game (by holding his shorts) :rotfl: Vern BTW was the poster boy of the natural scorer. He had, maybe on a good day, a 12" vertical leap, but could score on anybody any time (except if they were holding onto his shorts). Of course all my bono fides are meaningless, but I had fun stating them. Jeez, I loved my 4 years there.
Funny stuff! Actually though, Paul Meadows didn't do a very good job. His last two years the team went 7-16 and 9-15. It was Gene Bartow, starting in 64-65 that those guys stared on. The 65-66 team is the high flying team that beat Purdue and the 65-66 team that finished 21-8 and went to the NCAA Quarter Finals. Love the holding the short trick! :rotfl:
So Paul, is Micah faster than Buggs was?
A scheduling note I ran across today for next season 2016-17.
Check out @Catch_N_Shoot's Tweet: https://twitter.com/Catch_N_Shoot/status/745672487204233216?s=09
For those not on twitter, the Tweet says Valpo at Missouri State December 10th.
I like it when we play Missouri State. We have recent success against them, and they are generally a mid-tier mid-major.
Good! Bradley on the 14'th of Dec. That would be a Wed. Alec finally gets to appear near his hometown fans. Took much too long to achieve!
Also we get to visit our old buddy Brian Wardle. I might make the trip. :thumbsup:
Quote from: justducky on June 22, 2016, 10:47:03 PMGood! Bradley on the 14'th of Dec. That would be a Wed. Alec finally gets to appear near his hometown fans. Took much too long to achieve! Also we get to visit our old buddy Brian Wardle. I might make the trip. :thumbsup:
Absolutely, and I love playing mvc teams.
Quote from: justducky on June 22, 2016, 10:47:03 PM
Good! Bradley on the 14'th of Dec. That would be a Wed. Alec finally gets to appear near his hometown fans. Took much too long to achieve!
Also we get to visit our old buddy Brian Wardle. I might make the trip. :thumbsup:
I hope VU plays well in Peoria! The proverbial question.
Dec. 10 Missouri State ?
or......is the other multi-game post for '16-17 correct in saying Dec. 10 is AT OAKLAND.
I think you read it wrong. I don't believe Valpo is playing at Bradley this season.
Quote from: Pgmado on June 23, 2016, 04:58:59 PMI think you read it wrong. I don't believe Valpo is playing at Bradley this season.
Well if we aren't we should be. Last I checked Alec is a senior so at Bradley and or at Illinois St should be top priority OOC scheduling goals. This should be doable so they need to get-et-done. Funny how the human mind functions. I have been expecting us to go to Bradley (for Alec) so that is what I saw. My mind ignored the pieces that didn't fit. Maybe I should go back to a quart of whisky per day to keep my head on straight? :o
I didn't realize so many people on the board had become Chicago State fans, to be excited about the Cougars playing at Bradley.
Quote from: justducky on June 23, 2016, 07:41:06 PM
Quote from: Pgmado on June 23, 2016, 04:58:59 PMI think you read it wrong. I don't believe Valpo is playing at Bradley this season.
Well if we aren't we should be. Last I checked Alec is a senior so at Bradley and or at Illinois St should be top priority OOC scheduling goals. This should be doable so they need to get-et-done. Funny how the human mind functions. I have been expecting us to go to Bradley (for Alec) so that is what I saw. My mind ignored the pieces that didn't fit. Maybe I should go back to a quart of whisky per day to keep my head on straight? :o
The quart: increase or reduction?
Wow... Oakland takes another transfer player with HUGE character issues. Oakland just got 4-star PG Kendrick Nunn (former of University of Illinois) who was charged with domestic assault of his girlfriend. Kampe is a good coach and seems like a nice guy but he literally will take anyway on his team no matter the character issue. They have 3 athletes on their teams that got kick out of their former schools, and two of them for DOMESTIC ASSAULT!! I'm all for second chances but wow. Kampe has had 2 players who allegedly raped a woman 3 years ago also. I've seen Kendrick Nunn play and he is extremely talented. He co-stared along with Jabari Parker at Simeon a few years ago, but has been a pretty big disappointment the last 3 years down at UofI. I just texted my friend who just graduated from UofI what he thought of the move and he mentioned how the guy was one of the biggest jerks on the UofI BBall team which was full of not great guys last season.
Oakland should be favored now to win the Horizon with Kendrick Nunn in the fold. He is an extremely gift talent if he can stay out of trouble and adjust and mesh with his new teammates. Great "get" for Oakland in terms of talent but not the greatest character guy you'd want representing your school or OUR conference.
http://www.freep.com/story/sports/college/2016/06/22/oakland-illinois-transfer-kendrick-nunn/86271346/
Uh, no. Oakland will not be favored to win the league next season, as that will still be Valpo. Even if Nunn was available for the 2016-2017 season, which he isn't, they still wouldn't be favored.
Shouldn't he be suspended for this? Maybe that only applies if there's a video.
apologize, forgot he will miss the season. we'll still probably be favorites for next season. Is it just me or has there been some major talent influx the last year or so in the Horizon. Oakland has shadily added talent in the league and Steve McClain has paid (I mean recruited...) some very good mid-major prospects in the league the last two season. Cleveland always recruits well, but their players seem to always transfer. Valpo has done a solid job. No doubt the league has been down the last 3-4 years, especially since Butler left the conference but I have a feeling the league is on the up swing in terms of competition. The league just in last few years has had an influx of what seems to be much more up to par coaches even after losing Bryce and Wardle, who were replaced with very competitive/competent coaches. By the way watch out for UIC. That team might have the most pure raw talent on that roster, but McClain doesn't have the best rep in term of coaching chops, but always has been a great recruiter.
BTW there is an entire string on this issue devoted to this in "On The Horizon." Might be good to continue this discussion over there. This is Valpo MBB.
http://www.valpofanzone.com/forum/index.php?topic=2570.0 Topic: Another Thug at OU, what's new - Kendrick Nunn
Quote from: justducky on June 23, 2016, 07:41:06 PM
Quote from: Pgmado on June 23, 2016, 04:58:59 PMI think you read it wrong. I don't believe Valpo is playing at Bradley this season.
Well if we aren't we should be. Last I checked Alec is a senior so at Bradley and or at Illinois St should be top priority OOC scheduling goals. This should be doable so they need to get-et-done. Funny how the human mind functions. I have been expecting us to go to Bradley (for Alec) so that is what I saw. My mind ignored the pieces that didn't fit. Maybe I should go back to a quart of whisky per day to keep my head on straight? :o
Mind your P's and Q's!
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Quote from: justducky on June 23, 2016, 07:41:06 PM
Quote from: Pgmado on June 23, 2016, 04:58:59 PMI think you read it wrong. I don't believe Valpo is playing at Bradley this season.
Well if we aren't we should be. Last I checked Alec is a senior so at Bradley and or at Illinois St should be top priority OOC scheduling goals. This should be doable so they need to get-et-done. Funny how the human mind functions. I have been expecting us to go to Bradley (for Alec) so that is what I saw. My mind ignored the pieces that didn't fit. Maybe I should go back to a quart of whisky per day to keep my head on straight? :o
Mind your P's and Q's!
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Ran across these 2016-17 schedule games today. Dec 17 for ISU shown and Rhody shown as TBA.
I did not know Rhody was a home and home though. They s/b good with their star E.C.Matthews back from ACL injury.
Per The Catch and Shoot on Twitter...
"Valparaiso will host Indiana State and Rhode Island next season. Updated schedule tracker here: https://t.co/o5MzFygEA1"
A little Rhody preseason hype per Jon Rothstein of CBS Sports.
This is clearly the deepest team that Dan Hurley has had at URI. The big question now is how deep does the rotation go? 10-11 legit guys.
And more from Rothstein on Rhody.
Prediction: Jarvis Garrett, Jared Terrell, and Hassan Martin will become national names in 16-17. Stock will rise with URI's success.
Gotta pack the ARC for that one.
No, if you're drafted as a mid major player you ARE great. It takes way more then one guy to win an NCAA tourney game.
I may have missed it somewhere but has there been a final decision on Keith Carter for next year? I think there was an appeal of the appeal pending or something. I assume it's not looking good but just curious.
Quote from: valpolaw on July 04, 2016, 09:46:31 AM
I may have missed it somewhere but has there been a final decision on Keith Carter for next year? I think there was an appeal of the appeal pending or something. I assume it's not looking good but just curious.
I believe either Mark or Matt said they weren't expecting an answer till the end of July.
Quote from: vu72 on July 04, 2016, 11:19:37 AM
Quote from: valpolaw on July 04, 2016, 09:46:31 AM
I may have missed it somewhere but has there been a final decision on Keith Carter for next year? I think there was an appeal of the appeal pending or something. I assume it's not looking good but just curious.
I believe either Mark or Matt said they weren't expecting an answer till the end of July.
Last I heard, the expectation was that a decision could come by the end of this week or sometime next week.
Took a few moments today to think about basketball for the 1st time in a long time. I think we will basically have an 8 man rotation. My big concern on depth is the 2/3 positions. Tevonn and Hammink are great as starters, but who backs them up? Jubril is not a 3 and will be needed at the 4/5, Max doesn't shoot well enough to play the 2/3, and Bradford is strictly a point guard. That leaves Lexus, who's shot is good enough, but might be a defensive liability at times due to his size. I think he will get the backup minutes here and play mostly the 2 guard with Tevonn migrating between the 2/3 and Hammink playing majority 3. The 4 will be Peters and the 5 will be Smits with Jubril playing backup to both positions; probably 8ish minutes for peters and 20ish minutes for Smits. For ease of rotation, Jubril may start the 5 and Smits come off the bench. Really doesn't matter either way to me as both will get lots of minutes.
I don't think we are going to see Hammink as a backup point this year. We have lots of point guards on the roster and not a lot of people to play the 3. IF Skara had stayed, this would be a different story.
So our backups are probably Max at the point, Lexus at the 2/3, and Jubril at the 4/5. After that it gets pretty dicey as far as backup talent is concerned.
Bradford will get plenty of minutes running the point and we've been told that Hammink could be playing there as well. Don't know what to think about Lexus or Max. Hopefully one will improve enough to contribute. Also, as for backups at the 4 and 5, don't forget about Jaune Sorolla. The kid is 6'11", 240#.
Perhaps this is the year Davidson sees regular minutes.
Quote from: SanityLost17 on July 13, 2016, 10:26:42 AM
Took a few moments today to think about basketball for the 1st time in a long time. I think we will basically have an 8 man rotation. My big concern on depth is the 2/3 positions. Tevonn and Hammink are great as starters, but who backs them up? Jubril is not a 3 and will be needed at the 4/5, Max doesn't shoot well enough to play the 2/3, and Bradford is strictly a point guard. That leaves Lexus, who's shot is good enough, but might be a defensive liability at times due to his size. I think he will get the backup minutes here and play mostly the 2 guard with Tevonn migrating between the 2/3 and Hammink playing majority 3. The 4 will be Peters and the 5 will be Smits with Jubril playing backup to both positions; probably 8ish minutes for peters and 20ish minutes for Smits. For ease of rotation, Jubril may start the 5 and Smits come off the bench. Really doesn't matter either way to me as both will get lots of minutes.
I don't think we are going to see Hammink as a backup point this year. We have lots of point guards on the roster and not a lot of people to play the 3. IF Skara had stayed, this would be a different story.
So our backups are probably Max at the point, Lexus at the 2/3, and Jubril at the 4/5. After that it gets pretty dicey as far as backup talent is concerned.
Lexus is a 1—not a 3, maybe not even a real 2. Though Alec will play the 4 much of the time, as I have suggested in previous posts, I think he should play the 3 some this year. With Smits/Adekoya/Sorolla able to fill the 4-5, there could be more minutes available for Alec at the 3, especially since I feel Alec should play a few more minutes per game this year to better showcase him and build his stats a bit the way Kampe did for Felder at Oakland last year. Also, because Alec will be evaluated by scouts as a potential 3 for the NBA, Valpo owes Alec an opportunity to display his skills at that position in his senior year.
Quote from: IndyValpo on July 13, 2016, 11:15:10 AM
Perhaps this is the year Davidson sees regular minutes.
If this happens his nickname will no longer be accurate though :'(
I like it, we are back to MINUTES for this years team. The way I see it our positions and available bodies are as follows (not pertaining to starting 5). How do we fill the minutes for SG, SF and PF?
PG: Lexus, Micah, Joseph
Min: Lexus (20 min), Micah (15 min), Joseph (5 min)
SG: Tevonn, Hammink, Davidson, Joseph
Min: Tevonn (25 min), Hammink (10 min), Joseph (5 min)
SF: Peters, Hammink, Davidson
Min: Peters (20 min), Hammink 15 min), Davidson (5 min?)
**Pretty shallow depth here?**
PF: Peters, Adekoya, Jaume, Smits
Min: Peters (10 min), Adekoya (20), Jaume (5), Smits (5)
C: Smits, Adekoya, Jaume
Min: Smits (20), Adekoya (5), Jaume (15)
It's difficult to imagine more than Alec being able to log 30 mpg+. He is among our best at staying out of foul trouble, whereas Adekoya uses ALL his allowable fouls and quickly. Is it unusual to see teams with (2) players logging 30 mpg? Or even 28 mpg for (2) players? Who else can we expect to see in the 28-30 mpg range on this years team?
Thanks for your thoughts.
Look forward to your thoughts.
Quote from: FieldGoodie05 on July 13, 2016, 02:14:51 PMWho else can we expect to see in the 28-30 mpg range on this years team?
Shane will be the man. As the season went on he was relied on/needed more. Against GW he played 27, against Florida State he played 26 and against St. Marys he played 32!!
Quote from: SanityLost17 on July 13, 2016, 10:26:42 AMTook a few moments today to think about basketball for the 1st time in a long time. I think we will basically have an 8 man rotation. My big concern on depth is the 2/3 positions. Tevonn and Hammink are great as starters, but who backs them up? Jubril is not a 3 and will be needed at the 4/5, Max doesn't shoot well enough to play the 2/3, and Bradford is strictly a point guard. That leaves Lexus, who's shot is good enough, but might be a defensive liability at times due to his size. I think he will get the backup minutes here and play mostly the 2 guard with Tevonn migrating between the 2/3 and Hammink playing majority 3. The 4 will be Peters and the 5 will be Smits with Jubril playing backup to both positions; probably 8ish minutes for peters and 20ish minutes for Smits. For ease of rotation, Jubril may start the 5 and Smits come off the bench. Really doesn't matter either way to me as both will get lots of minutes. I don't think we are going to see Hammink as a backup point this year. We have lots of point guards on the roster and not a lot of people to play the 3. IF Skara had stayed, this would be a different story. So our backups are probably Max at the point, Lexus at the 2/3, and Jubril at the 4/5. After that it gets pretty dicey as far as backup talent is concerned.
What about Jaume Sorolla?
Pg: Bradford, Hammink, which ever of the other 2 is most improved
SG: Walker, Hammink
SF: Peters, Hammink, Adekoya
PF: Peters, Adekoya, Sorolla, Smits
C: Adekoya, Smits, Sorolla
I know we have more guys, but they will play garbage/injury minutes. I think Hammink or Adekoya will end up coming off the bench but playing starter minutes. I don't think it will be a very deep team, and avoiding injury will be huge.
Quote from: oklahomamick on July 13, 2016, 02:52:32 PM
Quote from: SanityLost17 on July 13, 2016, 10:26:42 AMTook a few moments today to think about basketball for the 1st time in a long time. I think we will basically have an 8 man rotation. My big concern on depth is the 2/3 positions. Tevonn and Hammink are great as starters, but who backs them up? Jubril is not a 3 and will be needed at the 4/5, Max doesn't shoot well enough to play the 2/3, and Bradford is strictly a point guard. That leaves Lexus, who's shot is good enough, but might be a defensive liability at times due to his size. I think he will get the backup minutes here and play mostly the 2 guard with Tevonn migrating between the 2/3 and Hammink playing majority 3. The 4 will be Peters and the 5 will be Smits with Jubril playing backup to both positions; probably 8ish minutes for peters and 20ish minutes for Smits. For ease of rotation, Jubril may start the 5 and Smits come off the bench. Really doesn't matter either way to me as both will get lots of minutes. I don't think we are going to see Hammink as a backup point this year. We have lots of point guards on the roster and not a lot of people to play the 3. IF Skara had stayed, this would be a different story. So our backups are probably Max at the point, Lexus at the 2/3, and Jubril at the 4/5. After that it gets pretty dicey as far as backup talent is concerned.
What about Jaume Sorolla?
If Sorolla is a capable backup big man. Things will be much more exciting this year as it opens up more minutes for Jubril at the 4 and Peters at the 3, and gives Hammink more opportunities to play the 1-2 instead of the 3. However, I will remain skeptical of Sorolla until I see him play a college game.
Quote from: M on July 13, 2016, 03:02:03 PM
Pg: Bradford, Hammink, which ever of the other 2 is most improved
SG: Walker, Hammink
SF: Peters, Hammink, Adekoya
PF: Peters, Adekoya, Sorolla, Smits
C: Adekoya, Smits, Sorolla
I know we have more guys, but they will play garbage/injury minutes. I think Hammink or Adekoya will end up coming off the bench but playing starter minutes. I don't think it will be a very deep team, and avoiding injury will be huge.
I think sometimes that fans are more worried about what position a player can/will play - and the coaches worry about defensive/offensive matchups, and getting 2-3 players to 'click' during any given game. Adekoya brought the ball up the floor many times last year, but I hardly think of him as a PG. We've heard that Smits will impress from the start (if I were a betting man...). We've also heard that Williams was quick, really quick, earlier this summer. I think that Peters, Adekoya, Hammink, Walker, Bradford, Smits and possibly Williams get see playing time in almost every game they are available. I think Joseph and Sorolla will see valuable minutes, but probably only about 3/4 of the games they are available. Davidson will see more minutes this season, many of which will come when game is undecided when he enters. Levingston will see mostly game already decided minutes.
If Bradford and Williams are as quick as they say, would love to see some up-tempo play and a kick-out three to wear the other team out!
Watch this highlight tape on Sorolla and tell me he won'y be playing. He is way more athletic then Vashil (from a scoring standpoint) and seems to have some shot blocking ability as well.
We could go very big with Alec, Derrik and Sorolla on the floor at the same time.
http://www.nbadraft.net/players/jaume-sorolla
We are overlooking injuries. Someone always seems to get hurt. This year's team doesn't appear to have the depth we've enjoyed the last 2 years. Not sure what the over/under would be for games played by Smits, but he seems to be injury prone and I wouldn't count on him playing every game -- or maybe even most of the games. I'm holding my breath on him.
Paul
Quote from: vu72 on July 13, 2016, 04:40:51 PM
Watch this highlight tape on Sorolla and tell me he won'y be playing. He is way more athletic then Vashil (from a scoring standpoint) and seems to have some shot blocking ability as well.
We could go very big with Alec, Derrik and Sorolla on the floor at the same time.
http://www.nbadraft.net/players/jaume-sorolla
I agree for the most part, but he is not always particularly fluid. He does impress me with how he is able to catch the ball and finish in the two instances where he is running the floor. Hope that is indicative of his overall ability.
Quote from: vu72 on July 13, 2016, 02:51:51 PM
Quote from: FieldGoodie05 on July 13, 2016, 02:14:51 PMWho else can we expect to see in the 28-30 mpg range on this years team?
Shane will be the man. As the season went on he was relied on/needed more. Against GW he played 27, against Florida State he played 26 and against St. Marys he played 32!!
I hope Shane can build upon the promise he showed this past season and become a prime contributor for the whole season this time around; however, Tevonn Walker is the player I will be watching closely when the new season starts. I want to see if he can overcome his disastrous sophomore slump and regain the shooting that we witnessed his freshman year. His dramatic downturn last year was a head-scratcher, and his performance in the next year will be crucial.
For example, Tevonn's conference stats in his freshman year vs. his sophomore year:
2014-2015 Field Goal 46.4%; 3-Point Field Goal 43.8%; Free Throws 76.4%
2015-2016 Field Goal 33.8%; 3-Point Field Goal 25.9%; Free Throws 61.5%
If Shane continues his progress and Tevonn regains his shooting touch, they will complement Alec very well.
Quote from: vu72 on July 13, 2016, 04:40:51 PMHe is way more athletic then Vashil (from a scoring standpoint) and seems to have some shot blocking ability as well.
When you say athleticism, I think of guys that play above the rim and can go grab the ball in the air (Vashil). Jaume reminds me more of a taller Kevin Van Wijk. Strong and uses his body well.
Quote from: valpopal on July 13, 2016, 10:08:59 PMTevonn Walker is the player I will be watching closely when the new season starts. I want to see if he can overcome his disastrous sophomore slump and regain the shooting that we witnessed his freshman year. His dramatic downturn last year was a head-scratcher, and his performance in the next year will be crucial.
I don't think that Tevonn's "disastrous sophomore slump" was a head-scratcher. Talking to Rod Moore towards the end of last season Tevonn had been battling an accumulation of injuries, and injuries to an athlete like Tevonn that relies on exceptional athleticism can drastically affect performance. His early season performance was extremely promising at 13ppg and almost 47% from 3pt range and then it fell off from there. I just hope that he regains the confidence he showed at the beginning 1/3 of the year and doesn't let last years injuries get into his head. I believe that he can and will be the player we all know he can be!
I shudder when I see Shane mentioned as the backup point guard. He has a lot of value bringing the ball up in transition, but he's way too turnover-prone starting sets with the ball. He needs to play off ball more, use his athleticism for backdoor cuts, and drive off of kicks from decent ball movement. He has decent enough range to stretch the defense still, and would stay out of foul trouble guarding opponents 3s (which are typically weak in the Horizon).
starting lineups, playing time and positions are uncertainties. But what I've found to be consistent year after year is not releasing the schedule until mid-late August. :-X
Albany pulls out of game against Duke on November 12 due to dispute over North Carolina's House Bill 2.
We need to call them......Albany's win total the last 5 years 19,24,19,24,24
Quote from: IndyValpo on July 14, 2016, 10:02:17 AM
Albany pulls out of game against Duke on November 12 due to dispute over North Carolina's House Bill 2.
We need to call them......Albany's win total the last 5 years 19,24,19,24,24
Maybe we should call Duke! ;)
Quote from: oklahomamick on July 14, 2016, 07:31:12 AM
starting lineups, playing time and positions are uncertainties. But what I've found to be consistent year after year is not releasing the schedule until mid-late August. :-X
. Frustrated by the lack of info too. Certainly would like to travel to some the pre conference games but need more lead time to plan. I asked for a a schedule but was told that it wasn't settled yet. I don't need the whole schedule just what away games that have been confirmed ???
Quote from: IndyValpo on July 14, 2016, 10:02:17 AM
Albany pulls out of game against Duke on November 12 due to dispute over North Carolina's House Bill 2.
We need to call them......Albany's win total the last 5 years 19,24,19,24,24
Cultural Marxism: Imposing uniformity of thought and behavior on an entire society.
Less than 4 months away from a golden opportunity to stop this madness in its tracks...
Quote from: wh on July 15, 2016, 08:35:26 PM
Quote from: IndyValpo on July 14, 2016, 10:02:17 AM
Albany pulls out of game against Duke on November 12 due to dispute over North Carolina's House Bill 2.
We need to call them......Albany's win total the last 5 years 19,24,19,24,24
Cultural Marxism: Imposing uniformity of thought and behavior on an entire society.
Less than 4 months away from a golden opportunity to stop this madness in its tracks...
From the schedule standpoint Albany might be a decent fit and I don't care how or why they reached their decision. From the political standpoint we should move this back to General Off Topic
under either Lefties Outraged at Trump
or Pence is a scary dude
.
Where can I get some Libertarian Johnson-Weld stickers?
Quote from: wh on July 15, 2016, 08:35:26 PM
Quote from: IndyValpo on July 14, 2016, 10:02:17 AM
Albany pulls out of game against Duke on November 12 due to dispute over North Carolina's House Bill 2.
We need to call them......Albany's win total the last 5 years 19,24,19,24,24
Cultural Marxism: Imposing uniformity of thought and behavior on an entire society.
Less than 4 months away from a golden opportunity to stop this madness in its tracks...
Damn. Let's just set up a totally separate forum for this political sh@$! and keep the Valpofanzone focused on Valpo sports. And, yes, let's go after Albany for the only reason that they have a good freaking DI record and a decent RPI.
NY's a-hole socialist governor took a simple athletic contest between 2 universities and turned into a shameless political stunt. After that the last thing I'm interested in seeing the Crusaders do is play Albany or any other government funded college from that state.
If you don't want to mix discussion of athletics and politics, then complain to the governor of NY. In the meantime I'm unwilling to discuss scheduling Albany without also discussing it's ridiculous political context, regardless of whether it ruffles the feathers of the progressive group-think mindset that predominates this board.
If Albany won't play in NC why in the world would they come play in Indiana 👫👬👭
Quote from: M on July 16, 2016, 10:51:10 AM
If Albany won't play in NC why in the world would they come play in Indiana 👫👬👭
Ah you forget that our soon to be unemployed Governor backed away from the RFRA bill when literally every business in Indiana objected. My opinion, if the NY Governor wants to help us with scheduling so be it.
Quote from: IndyValpo on July 16, 2016, 11:00:52 AM
Quote from: M on July 16, 2016, 10:51:10 AM
If Albany won't play in NC why in the world would they come play in Indiana 👫👬👭
Ah you forget that our soon to be unemployed Governor backed away from the RFRA bill when literally every business in Indiana objected. My opinion, if the NY Governor wants to help us with scheduling so be it.
I don't think the Governor of New York would want Albany to cancel one game on account of political correctness and then schedule a game in Indiana against a team called the
Crusaders! I say again, call Duke instead.
Agree there is some political overlap in this case. However, since we as a society are now incapable of civil political discourse, and both sides are more interested in demonizing the other rather than working with them, I don't want any politics on this board. I'm a fairly new member and if most disagree that's fine. But this toxic political environment has invaded most of my life through work, and i would just as soon let discussions about Valpo Basketball be about Valpo Basketball.
Quote from: valpopal on July 16, 2016, 11:11:02 AM
Quote from: IndyValpo on July 16, 2016, 11:00:52 AM
Quote from: M on July 16, 2016, 10:51:10 AM
If Albany won't play in NC why in the world would they come play in Indiana 👫👬👭
Ah you forget that our soon to be unemployed Governor backed away from the RFRA bill when literally every business in Indiana objected. My opinion, if the NY Governor wants to help us with scheduling so be it.
I don't think the Governor of New York would want Albany to cancel one game on account of political correctness and then schedule a game in Indiana against a team called the Crusaders! I say again, call Duke instead.
If Duke wanted to schedule Valpo they would have already called ML or MatLo (what do you think?).
Quote from: NativeCheesehead on July 19, 2016, 06:59:26 AM
Agree there is some political overlap in this case. However, since we as a society are now incapable of civil political discourse, and both sides are more interested in demonizing the other rather than working with them, I don't want any politics on this board. I'm a fairly new member and if most disagree that's fine. But this toxic political environment has invaded most of my life through work, and i would just as soon let discussions about Valpo Basketball be about Valpo Basketball.
Under normal circumstances I don't ever mix Valpo basketball and politics. In this instance, however, I was expressing an opinion as to why I hope we don't schedule Albany, given the controversial, politically-motivated decision by the Governor of NY that precipitated the sudden opening in Albany's schedule. Presumably, our administrator didn't consider it out-of-bounds; otherwise, he would have moved it or deleted it. Hopefully, you're able to get past the stress without suffering any permanent damage.
By the way, I'm taking you at your word that you find political discussion stressful, and not just political opinions with which you disagree. ;)
Quote from: NativeCheesehead on July 19, 2016, 06:59:26 AMHowever, since we as a society are now incapable of civil political discourse, and both sides are more interested in demonizing the other rather than working with them, I don't want any politics on this board.
Often the problem in having civilized discourse lies in the idea that there are two sides.
True. But I think the statement that I must be stressed because i disagree pretty much makes my point for me.
I agree with NativeCheesehead. Although canceling a college basketball game for socio-political reasons seems unwise and unreasonable, I would prefer to focus on Valpo basketball. The NY/NC fracas does not impact Valpo's basketball team. Now, if Duke decides to schedule us, then it is a whole new ballgame, and the issue is ripe for discussion. Until then, however, I would like to focus on all of the challenges facing us this upcoming season.
This political polarization has limited discussion to a shouting match between 15% from the far left and 15% from the far right. A blunt honest centrist can no longer hold either a Republican or Democrat office even at the county level. Excuse me but that is effectively 70% (give or take) of the population with little or no path toward governmental participation. Even most local appointed positions require a party affiliation to maintain balance. Is this what the founding fathers had in mind?
Our two party system is so broken that it is beyond repair. We need more parties and a probable transition to parliamentary government.
As for Duke we don't need both them and Kentucky on our schedule in a year without at-large hopes but the money could be helpful. Last year I would have signed up for a trip to both but I don't think either of them wanted the challenge.
Quote from: justducky on July 19, 2016, 02:23:51 PMAs for Duke we don't need both them and Kentucky on our schedule in a year without at-large hopes but the money could be helpful. Last year I would have signed up for a trip to both but I don't think either of them wanted the challenge.
Not so sure I agree with that statement.
Quote from: FWalum on July 19, 2016, 04:25:42 PM
Quote from: justducky on July 19, 2016, 02:23:51 PMAs for Duke we don't need both them and Kentucky on our schedule in a year without at-large hopes but the money could be helpful. Last year I would have signed up for a trip to both but I don't think either of them wanted the challenge.
Not so sure I agree with that statement.
You beat me to it! Other than being in the Horizon, I think this team has as much potential as last years. Sure, we have the question mark at point which just may be done by committee, and the unknown as to how Derrik will fare, but we also have lots of very experienced senior guys.
Quote from: FWalum on July 19, 2016, 04:25:42 PM
Quote from: justducky on July 19, 2016, 02:23:51 PMAs for Duke we don't need both them and Kentucky on our schedule in a year without at-large hopes but the money could be helpful. Last year I would have signed up for a trip to both but I don't think either of them wanted the challenge.
Not so sure I agree with that statement.
With Keith I still had some slim at-large bid hopes. Without him we may be doing well just to enter the postseason in the top 70. We have too many team and coaching losses to start the season as a finely tuned machine but maybe by March we can do some damage.
Hey we are back talking basketball with nary a mention of whats-his-name or whats-her-name. :thewave:
[tweet]757300807704449025[/tweet]
Some great experience for him. He seems to be our first big man that is willing to bang it around inside, since KVW, but our first 6'10"+ guy to do so since Raitis?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VL6wt7eGFeM&feature=youtu.be
Ex-Newman basketball standout Jackie Manuel returns to scout talent
http://www.palmbeachpost.com/news/sports/basketball/ex-newman-basketball-standout-jackie-manuel-return/nsXhz/
Coach Manuel is a good dude, a good coach, and a good mentor for these young men.
Valparaiso, the reigning regular-season champions and NIT runner-up, will face off with UIC in the windy city on ESPNU at 5 p.m. ET on December 30 to begin network action. The Crusaders are showcased on ESPN in seven scheduled contests including the complete series against Oakland to be covered on ESPN2 on Jan. 6 at 9 p.m. ET and Feb. 17 at 7 p.m. ET.
* Every HL game on ESPN2/ESPNU features Valpo and/or OU.
https://www.twitter.com/ValpoBasketball/status/782788431902416896
Tevon seems to be feeling alright :o I recall seeing him jump like that his freshman year up in Milwaukee.
Quote from: wh on October 03, 2016, 02:38:15 AM
https://www.twitter.com/ValpoBasketball/status/782788431902416896
Hope he regains his confidence this year. Playing a faster paced, run-in-transition game can only help. While I'm concerned with the point guard situation, I'm excited for a new offense (assuming Lottich isn't just Drew 4.0). This is going to be a FUN team to watch if Tevonn and Hammink are playing up-tempo with Peters shooting more transition threes.
Click a link to save a life.
http://www.nwitimes.com/blogs/sports/inside-vu-sports/lottich-set-to-begin-first-season-as-valparaiso-coach/article_c4e480dc-899b-11e6-9ab6-b328a51f0f80.html
Super interview, Paul.
It just seems Matt has his act together, will be demanding, but at the same time is just a nice human being.
Quote from: Pgmado on October 03, 2016, 08:08:25 PM
Click a link to save a life.
http://www.nwitimes.com/blogs/sports/inside-vu-sports/lottich-set-to-begin-first-season-as-valparaiso-coach/article_c4e480dc-899b-11e6-9ab6-b328a51f0f80.html
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cC96yMn_anc
All kidding aside, excellent interview!
Wow, we've already lost Matt to Vandy? Guess he is an up and comer. Where'd Bryce go?
Horizon League awards come out tomorrow. Here's my ballot.
http://www.nwitimes.com/blogs/sports/inside-vu-sports/slideshow-predicting-the-horizon-league-men-s-basketball-finish/collection_fcbc7561-d636-5188-bdfd-979c24403cd7.html#1
Can't disagree with much, but I think Tevonn will be first or second team by year's end.
From Mike Osipoff regarding Alec's comments on Shane. Note the one about less ball handling ::)
[tweet]784147151794409473[/tweet]
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[tweet]784147705065005056[/tweet]
[tweet]784147867841757189[/tweet]
March Madness just posted a video referencing rule changes and interpretation changes for MBB this season. 20 minutes.
https://www.facebook.com/NCAAMarchMadness/videos/10154636772418760/
Several of you will recognize the presenter... JDCollins did Valpo games for YEARS! He's the guy with a broken pinky-finger so when he would point 2-shots... it always looked like 3!...
I think this video should be required watching by everyone who buys a ticket to a basketball game.
Quote from: talksalot on October 07, 2016, 04:59:23 PM
March Madness just posted a video referencing rule changes and interpretation changes for MBB this season. 20 minutes.
https://www.facebook.com/NCAAMarchMadness/videos/10154636772418760/
Several of you will recognize the presenter... JDCollins did Valpo games for YEARS! He's the guy with a broken pinky-finger so when he would point 2-shots... it always looked like 3!...
I think this video should be required watching by everyone who buys a ticket to a basketball game.
Extremely informative. Great post!
So I was just watching a preview of the Cleveland Cavaliers upcoming season. A point of note was that LeBron has the ability to drive into the paint and dish to wide ope Irving for a 3. At a much different level, Alec has the same ability to draw attention to himself and dish--but to whom? We don't have a Max Hooper. Who is the 3 point threat this year?? Without one, Alec will be doubled all season long.
Quote from: vu72 on October 07, 2016, 09:34:25 PM
So I was just watching a preview of the Cleveland Cavaliers upcoming season. A point of note was that LeBron has the ability to drive into the paint and dish to wide ope Irving for a 3. At a much different level, Alec has the same ability to draw attention to himself and dish--but to whom? We don't have a Max Hooper. Who is the 3 point threat this year?? Without one, Alec will be doubled all season long.
Max Hooper was on Valpo last year?
Who was the 3pt threat that graduated?
Quote from: M on October 08, 2016, 09:40:25 AM
Who was the 3pt threat that graduated?
In conference, Keith Carter shot 42.9% from the 3 and Darien Walker shot 42.4% from the 3. David Skara only shot 32.8% from the 3 but made 21. That's a combined 125 3's that graduated or left the program. By contrast, Max Hooper made 117 3's last year.
Quote from: vu72 on October 08, 2016, 10:11:15 AM
Quote from: M on October 08, 2016, 09:40:25 AM
Who was the 3pt threat that graduated?
In conference, Keith Carter shot 42.9% from the 3 and Darien Walker shot 42.4% from the 3. That's a combined 104 3's that graduated.
I think that Tevonn has the capability to be a very consistent 3 Pt threat. Up until mid January last year he was shooting almost 47% from 3. After talking to Rod Moore about Tevonn's health late in the season, I don't think that he was ever really 100% after the Oregon State game last year and the injuries took their toll on his consistency of play. I am looking for him to have the kind of year that we all know he can produce.
Tevonn definitely looked a little hobbled last season. Looks like he's feeling better... ;)
https://twitter.com/ValpoBasketball/status/782788431902416896
https://twitter.com/HLeagueHoops/status/786040847221436416
https://twitter.com/HLeagueHoops/status/786040480249196544
HLeague 2016-17 Preview the Season: 2. UIC; 1. Valpo
Posted on October 12, 2016
2. UIC Flames
Flames Seek Offensive Consistency with Young, yet Very Talented Team
Although they might not admit it, most college basketball teams have the goal of winning their conference. Despite finishing dead last in the Horizon League last season, going from worst to first is not a far-fetched idea for the Flames. UIC returns Horizon League Freshman of the Year and All-League Second team selection Dikembe Dixson, along with junior defensive standout Tai Odiase, who led the nation in blocked shots last season.
Junior forward/center Tai Odiase (#21) is one of the top defensive players in college basketball.
Dixson is an explosive scorer, who carried his team offensively last season. But with more talent around him, expect Dixson's shot selection and field goal percentage to both improve. Odiase will form a formidable frontcourt with JUCO transfer Clint Robinson, who averaged 8 rebounds per game last season. Overall, the Flames have seven new players, and nine of their 14 man roster are either freshmen or sophomores. Expect athletic swingman K.J. Santos and guard Marcus Ottey to have the biggest impact among the newcomers. Dominique Matthews' first collegiate season was cut short by injury last year. But expect him to be a starter and major factor in the backcourt. The Flames were one of the better teams defensively last season, leading the league in rebounding and blocked shots. But it was another story offensively, as the Flames were last in the league in field goal shooting (38.8%) and second to last in both points and assists per game. Turnovers also plagued UIC last season. Expect an uptempo style of play for a team that should have a larger rotation. UIC did not win a non-conference game versus a Division 1 opponent last season, and they were also winless on the road. But they also lost a lot of close games, losing six times by five points or less. The Flames have a manageable non-conference slate this season, with their toughest tests coming when they travel to Grand Canyon and DePaul. Expect UIC to be one of the surprise teams not only in the H-League, but in all of college basketball.
Projected H-League Record: 13-5
1. Valparaiso Crusaders
With Some Familiar Faces Gone, Valpo Looks to do What Last Year's Team Couldn't
It was a busy and uncertain offseason for the Crusaders. It will be the first season since 1987-88 that their head coach will have a surname other than Drew. Two-time Horizon League Defensive Player of the Year Vashil Fernandez has graduated, as have Keith Carter and Darien Walker. But the best news Valpo got is that star forward Alec Peters is returning for his senior season, after testing the waters of the NBA Draft. Peters is not only the overwhelming favorite to win Horizon League Player of the Year, he will be one of Image result for valpo basketballthe ten best players in all of college basketball. Assuming he can stay healthy, look for junior guard Tevonn Walker to have a breakout season and finish the season on an All-League team. Senior Shane Hammink will also have his role increased, especially on the offensive end. Senior Jubril Adekoya will be a main factor for the Crusaders in the low post. But look for 7'2" redshirt freshman Derrik Smits to see some quality minutes in the frontcourt, along with true freshman Jaume Sorolla (6'11"). No other Horizon League team has a two player combo that can match that kind of height. Don't expect Lottich to change the game plan all that much, especially with such an experienced and battle-tested team. The Crusaders will continue to be deliberate and disciplined on both ends, while always taking advantage of the mistakes of opponents. Last regular season, Valpo was the clear-cut best team in the H-League. No other team was really even close. But this season, expect UIC, Oakland, Green Bay, and Detroit Mercy to bridge the gap significantly, if not one of them pass the Crusaders. But Peters is good enough to put this team on his back to keep Valpo in first place and head back to the NCAA Tourney.
Projected H-League Record: 14-4
Let's add this from Paul to Alec's comments about Shane (oh, and now add Sorolla)........
[tweet]785977050733707264[/tweet]
Quote from: VULB#62 on October 07, 2016, 10:53:40 AM
From Mike Osipoff regarding Alec's comments on Shane. Note the one about less ball handling ::)
[tweet]784147151794409473[/tweet]
[tweet]784147256840716288[/tweet]
[tweet]784147705065005056[/tweet]
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I wish Alec had said something positive about the point guard position instead of "everybody's expanded their game. ... "
Now I'd be much more excited by a quote like that.
NCAA Championship odds: 5 mid-major longshots to watch
Here are five potential teams that could be somebody's lottery ticket in the 2017 NCAA Tournament.
by Chris McKee Oct 11, 2016, 8:50am
http://www.midmajormadness.com/2016/10/11/13235728/ncaa-championship-odds-valparaiso-belmont-saint-marys-fresno-state
Who runs the point? Williams, Joseph, Bradford and Lottich give their thoughts
http://www.nwitimes.com/blogs/sports/inside-vu-sports/who-runs-the-point-for-valpo/article_8beaa6d4-9248-11e6-b203-afc4c0787a53.html
Uh oh!
https://twitter.com/NWIOren/status/787037811983650816
https://twitter.com/NWIOren/status/787038032650199040
https://twitter.com/NWIOren/status/787038427204255744
https://twitter.com/NWIOren/status/787038738719313920
https://twitter.com/barrybradford3/status/783470563490664448
Quote from: covufan on October 14, 2016, 05:56:34 PM
Uh oh!
https://twitter.com/NWIOren/status/787037811983650816
https://twitter.com/NWIOren/status/787038032650199040
https://twitter.com/NWIOren/status/787038427204255744
https://twitter.com/NWIOren/status/787038738719313920
Must have been something pretty serious. The Basketball facebook page shows a team picture and I posted, "where is John Middleton"? No response of course. Still, to be left out of the team picture it isn't a two game suspension ala Shane or Jubril.
Shane and Jubril are going to serve a 2 game suspension also? When did this all happen?
Quote from: VU2014 on October 17, 2016, 11:17:15 AM
Shane and Jubril are going to serve a 2 game suspension also? When did this all happen?
No he's talking about the 2 gamer they served after the house party 2 years ago. Jubril served it during his Sophomore season, Shane served it last season.
oh yeah. I totally forgot about that.
Quote from: VU2014 on October 17, 2016, 11:17:15 AM
Shane and Jubril are going to serve a 2 game suspension also? When did this all happen?
No No!!! It happened the year before last for Jabril and at the beginning of last year for Shane. They were at a huge party which was busted and both were underage at the time. Shane had to wait to serve his two game suspension because of the time it occurred he was redshirting.
Just going by the team picture, it's hard to see a 3" difference between Derrik and Jaume.
http://www.valpoathletics.com/mbasketball/roster/
Any thoughts?
Quote from: wh on October 19, 2016, 03:13:50 AM
Just going by the team picture, it's hard to see a 3" difference between Derrik and Jaume.
http://www.valpoathletics.com/mbasketball/roster/
Any thoughts?
This one from Twitter taken at floor level might support the 3" difference a bit better. I'm looking at the Jaume/Alec difference too. Quite a difference between 6-9 and 6-11 IMO. Think Alec is more like 6-8? Or is Jaume closer to 7-0?
[tweet]786688069705629696[/tweet]
Jubril is a true 6'7", so I'm thinking Alec is a true 6'9" and Smits might not be 7'2", I'm thinking there's an extra inch added there.
Thought Coach Gore was 6'8" right? He hadn't any reason to embellish for roster reasons. If so, his head is level with the bottom of the bleacher behind him. Maybe use that as a control and compare from there?
I know the angle is misleading but that shows Adekoya is shorter than Gore. Shows Peters is taller than Adekoya noticeably. And in turn, demonstrates Peters is a good deal shorter than Jaume. I think it appears Smits is not 3" taller than Jaume.
Alright Adekoya is probably equally as tall as Coach Gore.
And if you look at the ears of Smits vs Jaume there could be a 3" height difference. Kind of silly how closely we look though! Because arm length (reach) is the real upside. Just look at NBA Vashil the destroyer!! 6-10" with other worldly reach.
Jaume is standing on his toes in the back row. I did that in eighth grade for a team basketball picture. Gained at least two inches.
Quote from: Just Sayin on October 19, 2016, 01:20:10 PM
Jaume is standing on his toes in the back row. I did that in eighth grade for a team basketball picture. Gained at least two inches.
:rotfl:
https://twitter.com/USATODAYsports/status/789121049002729472
https://twitter.com/ValpoBasketball/status/789123076634120192
No surprise Valpo didn't make the preseason Top 25 in the coaches poll, but we did receive votes...
Others Receiving Votes
Florida State 65; Iowa State 56; California 43; Miami (Fla.) 35; Dayton 34; Oklahoma 33; Seton Hall 24; Texas A&M 22; Notre Dame 18; San Diego State 17; Virginia Tech 16; Wichita State 15; Southern California 14; Butler 14; Ohio State 12; Florida 11; Clemson 11; Colorado 11; Michigan 10; Pittsburgh 7; Georgia 6; Virginia Commonwealth 6; Yale 6; Chattanooga 5; Washington 4; Nevada 3; Kansas State 3; Arkansas 2; Davidson 2; Valparaiso 2; Southern Methodist 1; Utah 1.
CBS Sports Rank all of Division I men's college basketball teams: Valpo came in #51
https://twitter.com/MattNorlander/status/788768016058183680
50. Texas Tech
51. Valparaiso
"I think some could accuse me of pegging Valpo to high because Bryce Drew left for Vanderbilt. In reality, Matt Lottich steps in as a fine replacement. And Alec Peters is back. The Crusaders will almost definitely be the best team in the Horizon. Confident this is in the neighborhood of a top-50 team in college hoops this season."
52. Notre Dame
On our schedule from the USAToday pre-season poll:
UK = #4
Oregon = #5
URI = #21
Notable: St. Mary's College, who we beat in the NIT, jumped up 21 slots to #19
Quote from: VULB#62 on October 20, 2016, 11:54:26 AM
On our schedule from the USAToday pre-season poll:
UK = #4
Oregon = #5
URI = #21
Notable: St. Mary's College, who we beat in the NIT, jumped up 21 slots to #19
And, Florida State, who we also beat and who lost a first Round draft pick comes in at #26.
I'd also like to point out that Valpo ranked #51 and Bryce's Vanderbilt is ranked #61.
51. Valparaiso
"I think some could accuse me of pegging Valpo to high because Bryce Drew left for Vanderbilt. In reality, Matt Lottich steps in as a fine replacement. And Alec Peters is back. The Crusaders will almost definitely be the best team in the Horizon. Confident this is in the neighborhood of a top-50 team in college hoops this season."
61. Vanderbilt
"Bryce Drew takes over for Kevin Stallings. Matthew Fisher-Davis will be the star here, and the Commodores still have enough talent left over from last season to be a top-five team in the SEC."
Quote from: VU2014 on October 20, 2016, 12:36:33 PMCommodores still have enough talent left over from last season to be a top-five team in the SEC.
Based on last year this would leave them out of the NCAA tournament.
Jabril makes a nice pass to Sorolla for the dunk https://www.instagram.com/p/BL_bKs7BKzt/
Would have been a fun scrimmage to watch and see how players look early on. 12 days till Hillsdale. I'm anxious for the season to begin to see how the team looks and see what some of the difference are between Lottich's offensive scheme and Bryces are. I'm thinking we may be pushing the ball down the court a little quicker this season. Hoping our team maintains the high volume of passing and movement. We shall see.
Quote from: VU2014 on October 25, 2016, 10:44:05 AM
Jabril makes a nice pass to Sorolla for the dunk https://www.instagram.com/p/BL_bKs7BKzt/
Would have been a fun scrimmage to watch and see how players look early on. 12 days till Hillsdale. I'm anxious for the season to begin to see how the team looks and see what some of the difference are between Lottich's offensive scheme and Bryces are. I'm thinking we may be pushing the ball down the court a little quicker this season. Hoping our team maintains the high volume of passing and movement. We shall see.
And One!!
Is it typical to have "real" referees at these scrimmages? Are they "real" NCAA refs or are they guys dressed in referees' shirts or possibly referees in training looking for some schools to let them into their scrimmages so the training refs can practice also? Anybody know?
Quote from: bbtds on October 25, 2016, 02:38:11 PM
Is it typical to have "real" referees at these scrimmages? Are they "real" NCAA refs or are they guys dressed in referees' shirts or possibly referees in training looking for some schools to let them into their scrimmages so the training refs can practice also? Anybody know?
It has become typical for college teams to hold a intrasquad scrimmage complete with refs so players can get an idea as to how games are going to be called in regards to new rule changes. This happened last weekend. Valpo will travel to Northern Illinois this weekend for a closed scrimmage. Not sure yet if reports will become public.
https://twitter.com/marchmadness/status/789906951027253248
College basketball preview: Valpo has control on the Horizon League
Daniel Wilco | NCAA.com
Last Updated - Oct 22, 2016 21:09 EDT
The crispness of the fall air, the orange hues that overtake the treetops, and the squeak of basketball sneakers in gymnasiums across the country.
These are just some of the telltale signs that basketball is back. More importantly, the annual countdown to March Madness can begin anew.
As much fun as Midnight Madness can be, the culmination of a long offseason is the tipoff of a team's first game. With the start of the 2016-17 season quickly approaching, NCAA.com is cracking the books and breaking things down in each of college basketball's 32 conferences.
Recap
In the 2015-16 regular season, Valparaiso dominated the Horizon League. The Crusaders went 16-2 in conference play during a 30-7 season. But the postseason was a different story. Green Bay took down No. 1 seed Valpo in overtime of the tournament semifinals, then toppled Wright State to capture the Horizon League tournament crown and the conference's automatic bid to the NCAA tournament.
The Phoenix would fall to Texas A&M in the first round of the tournament, but their postseason run proved that the Horizon League has more parity than it might seem.
Best player
When you're the most prolific player on the most successful team in the conference, chances are you're going to have a season to remember. That should be the case for Valparaiso senior Alec Peters.
Peters, voted the Horizon League Preseason Player of the Year in the coaches' poll, had a stellar junior season where he ranked in the top-five in the conference in scoring (17.9 points per game), rebounding (9.2 per game), 3-point percentage (46 percent) among other categories.
This season, for the second year in a row, Peters was named to the Karl Malone Award watch list, which recognizes the top power forward in college basketball. Don't be surprised if it's just one of many awards Peters is up for at the end of the year.
Best team
Having the league's best player on your roster certainly doesn't hurt, but it isn't Valparaiso's only advantage this season. The Crusaders return two starters and 10 upperclassmen from a 2015-16 squad that tallied a school-record 30 wins (including going 16-2 in conference play) and an NIT championship runner-up finish.
That was enough to earn Valparaiso 35 of the 39 first-place votes in the conference's preseason poll, and that isn't an unwarranted mark.
The Crusaders' coach last season, Bryce Drew, took the head job at Vanderbilt during the offseason, but Valpo shouldn't see much of a hiccup in the transition. Drew's replacement, Matt Lottich, has been on the Crusaders' bench for the past three years during which the team won 78 games.
The team he's taking over shouldn't have too many problems keeping the pace of last season's squad either. Senior Shane Hammink was named to the Horizon League's preseason second-team All League before his second season as a Crusader. Hammink's 8.9 points per game were second on the team last season, and the Dutchman scored double figures twice during the Crusaders' NIT run.
Valparaiso also returns junior guard Tevonn Walker, who started 26 of the team's games last year. Walker averaged 8.8 points per game and had the second-most assists last year among returning players.
Valpo won't get its third-straight regular-season crown without a fight, but the Crusaders should be able to come out on top in March.
Sleeper team
Last year, Green Bay finished fourth in the Horizon League's regular season. The Phoenix were 11-7 in conference and 23-13 overall. It was an impressive season, but what was more impressive was the team's postseason run in early March.
As the No. 4 seed, the Phoenix won four straight games by an average of nine points, including a 99-92 overtime win over No. 1 seed Valparaiso.
This season could be even better for the Phoenix. Yes, they lost leading scorer Carrington Love, but Green Bay returns six seniors and three juniors to one of the most experienced teams in the Horizon League. One of those seniors, Charles Cooper, averaged 13.6 points and 5.5 rebounds per game last season — impressive enough for a preseason All-Horizon first-team selection.
The Phoenix themselves were picked to finish No. 3 in the preseason coaches' poll. If they can capitalize on last year's postseason momentum, Green Bay can be a potential title contender in the Horizon League.
Freshman to watch
First-team All-State in Indiana is not an easy honor to earn. Chris Palombizio did it twice. Oakland's freshman comes into a team that was picked as the runner up for the Horizon League in the preseason coaches' poll and should be able to make an early impact.
https://twitter.com/palombizio05/status/663123963061534721
Palombizio, a 6-foot-6, 212-pound guard/forward combo, has the size to be a presence inside, and the shooting ability to be a threat on the perimeter, something Oakland could certainly use if it's to take on preseason favorite Valparaiso.
I think the National College Basketball Sports media and frankly a lot of people are sleeping on UIC. I think they are going to be a force to deal with for the next couple seasons and this season as sleeper.
UIC just had an amazing recruiting class the last 2 years, and I think Marcus Ottey (also a former valpo recruit) is going to surprise a lot of people and KJ Santos is going to be a really good. Tarkus Ferguson and Jordan Blount and good players too.
UIC's head coach Steve McClain isn't exactly known for being an X's and O's savant and is known for his recruiting (Cough-Cough: Paying players Cough-Cough), so we shall see how far he can take the team.
Quote from: VU2014 on October 26, 2016, 11:34:06 AMPalombizio, a 6-foot-6, 212-pound guard/forward combo, has the size to be a presence inside, and the shooting ability to be a threat on the perimeter, something Oakland could certainly use if it's to take on preseason favorite Valparaiso.
What crime did Palombizio commit? Oh, I'm sorry. I made an assumption that I shouldn't have. But let's face it, any good player with height at Oakland has usually been guilty of something.
Quote from: VU2014 on October 26, 2016, 11:40:05 AM
I think the National College Basketball Sports media and frankly a lot of people are sleeping on UIC. I think they are going to be a force to deal with for the next couple seasons and this season as sleeper.
I happen to agree with you in some respects. People are sleeping on UIC.
February 15, 2009. That's the last time UIC beat Valpo. They are due. I've already circled December 30th on the calendar. Dangerous.
New intro video
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=unwv5MItxZ4&feature=youtu.be
Sweet. Great video!! Looking forward to seeing it pregame many times.
Quote from: vufan75 on October 29, 2016, 11:17:37 AM
Sweet. Great video!! Looking forward to seeing it pregame many times.
I think the most sincerest expression on that video is the screaming after Broekhoff's shot against Green Bay by what I believe is former Valpo player, former Greg Oden & Mike Conley teammate at Lawrence North,
Brandon McPherson--or was it another former player?
Quote from: bbtds on October 29, 2016, 11:28:50 AM
Quote from: vufan75 on October 29, 2016, 11:17:37 AM
Sweet. Great video!! Looking forward to seeing it pregame many times.
I think the most sincerest expression on that video is the screaming after Broekhoff's shot against Green Bay by what I believe is former Valpo player, former Greg Oden & Mike Conley teammate at Lawrence North, Brandon McPherson--or was it another former player?
It's him. I was sitting next to him working for ESPN and I couldn't hear the production truck over him.
Quote from: VU2014 on October 26, 2016, 11:40:05 AM
I think the National College Basketball Sports media and frankly a lot of people are sleeping on UIC. I think they are going to be a force to deal with for the next couple seasons and this season as sleeper.
A) UIC went 5-25 last year.
B) CBS Sports' Matt Norlander, who is one of few, if only, national reporter to rank all 351 college basketball teams with actually any thought put into it, has UIC taking a bigger step forward than any other team in the country.
C) Horizon League media/coaches has picked UIC to go from last place to No. 4 in preseason poll. The team won FIVE games overall last season and is now picked to finish in a spot where teams have won an average of 11+ conference games every year this decade.
D) Tell me again how anyone is sleeping on UIC
The highlight clips were cool, the fire on the players....meh, maybe I will like it better on the big video board.
Paul mentioned we won the scrimmage against North Illinois today.
https://twitter.com/NWIOren/status/792534378433900544
https://twitter.com/NWIOren/status/792534775894597636
https://twitter.com/NWIOren/status/792534946711740416
https://twitter.com/NWIOren/status/792548937005666304
https://twitter.com/VitoJerome/status/792534213580955648
(sounds like Detroit could be in some trouble this year...)
https://twitter.com/NWIOren/status/792447129461657600
Detroit sat several probable starters.
A question just came to mind, now that we're about a week away from our exhibition game...With the Crusaders head coach now being a last name different than Drew, do we see the exhibition game shown on ESPN3 this year, or does Coach Lottich keep the same philosophy that "the exhibition game gives out too many potential views that I don't want out there yet"?
Also, for chef, will you be at Dayton with the football team, or at the ARC for the exhibition game?
Quote from: Pgmado on October 29, 2016, 01:27:02 PM
Quote from: VU2014 on October 26, 2016, 11:40:05 AM
I think the National College Basketball Sports media and frankly a lot of people are sleeping on UIC. I think they are going to be a force to deal with for the next couple seasons and this season as sleeper.
A) UIC went 5-25 last year.
B) CBS Sports' Matt Norlander, who is one of few, if only, national reporter to rank all 351 college basketball teams with actually any thought put into it, has UIC taking a bigger step forward than any other team in the country.
C) Horizon League media/coaches has picked UIC to go from last place to No. 4 in preseason poll. The team won FIVE games overall last season and is now picked to finish in a spot where teams have won an average of 11+ conference games every year this decade.
D) Tell me again how anyone is sleeping on UIC
I think the only people sleeping on UIC are patients going here for a sleep study
https://hospital.uillinois.edu/primary-and-specialty-care/pulmonary/our-areas-of-expertise/sleep-science-center
Sports Illustrated Ranks all 351 teams.
http://www.si.com/college-basketball/2016/11/01/preseason-every-team-ranked-top-25-duke-kansas-kentucky?xid=socialflow_twitter_si
Valpo
Rank: 86
Proj. Off. Eff.: 103.2
Off. Rank: 209
Proj. Def. Eff.: 94.8
Def. Rank: 21
Proj. Pyth. Win%: 0.7258 (Roughly: 22-8)
Proj. Conf. Rank: 1st in Horz
Proj. NCAAs seed: 13 seed
Take Away:
They think our defense will still be amazing. Not sure that we will be the #21 defense in the nation, because we lost Vashil who was the rock in the middle of our defense. I'm hoping Smits and Sorolla (heard his defense is solid for a freshman) will be competent, but Vashil's skill set (WING-SPAN and instincts (last 2-3 seasons)) were special.
Bryce's offensive system was never high powered, but was more efficient in a way. I loved Bryce's system of ball movement and passing. I hope that transfers to Lottich's System.
I just don't know how they can rank the systems efficiency and predict with all the x factors. I'm extremely interested to see what the differences are between Coach Lottich's and Coach Drew's offensive and defensive systems may be.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kmkSd_DqWoA&list=TLGGRn9UKgU89oowODExMjAxNg
I still wonder why Todd says "...this is Todd Ickow" instead of "I'm Todd Ickow" It isn't like this is being broadcast on the radio. Just bugs me I guess!! :crazy:
Quote from: vu72 on November 08, 2016, 01:59:09 PM
I still wonder why Todd says "...this is Todd Ickow" instead of "I'm Todd Ickow" It isn't like this is being broadcast on the radio. Just bugs me I guess!! :crazy:
I'm going to say he does this by force of habit.
Quote from: bsmith21 on November 12, 2016, 10:50:24 AM
In his first game coaching vanderbilt BD led the commadores to a 24 point loss
And, they had a one point lead at half. That, my friends, is the definition of collapse.
NKU improved?
http://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/ncaab/2016/11/13/illinois-outlasts-northern-kentucky-in-79-64-battle/93781158/
Quote from: VULB#62 on November 13, 2016, 07:35:37 PMNKU improved? http://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/ncaab/2016/11/13/illinois-outlasts-northern-kentucky-in-79-64-battle/93781158/
They recruited well.
Article states their tallest player was 6'7. I hope we throw our 7 footer and 6'11 at them. We should dominate the post with our size but those two bigs haven't received many minutes in the first two games.
Other than Malcolm Hill I think Peters and Adekoya are better than the other supporting Illini players. And I'm not sure Peters wouldn't out rank Hill. Peters is more of a team player.
Just remembered this out of the blue:
Just before the season started, I reminded Shane that last year at the same time I asked him if we were going to win 30 games, and he responded "Absolutely!" Since that came true, I asked if he would make the same assurance this year. He said, "Rather than wins I WILL promise that we ARE going to win at least 1 game in the NCAA tournament." I said, "I'll take it!" 🙂
International veteran Jaume Sorolla developing as freshman for Valparaiso
Michael Osipoff
Post-Tribune
Jaume Sorolla had never played in an environment like Rupp Arena.
A venue that big? Yes.
That packed? No.
Then again, Sorolla, who has represented his native Spain in international competitions at various youth levels, arrived at Valparaiso without preconceived notions.
The freshman center diligently studies the scouting reports. But he doesn't differentiate much among playing at Kentucky or Oregon or Missouri State, or even against Trinity Christian at the Athletics-Recreation Center.
"Every team has big guys, strong guys," Sorolla said.
The speed of the game has been a significant adjustment.
"Faster, yes," Sorolla said. "They fly here. In Europe, we have big guys — Lithuania, Serbia — but they are slow. Here, No. 3 of Kentucky (Bam Adebayo) — taller, yes, faster, no."
Sorolla, 6-foot-11 and 240 pounds, hasn't been intimidated, aided by his international experience.
Over the summer, he helped Spain win the gold medal at the U20 European Championship. In seven games last July in Helsinki, he averaged 4.7 points and 2.1 rebounds in 17.4 minutes.
"It's a big honor. We don't have the biggest team, the strongest team, but we have power inside," said Sorolla, pointing to his chest.
Sorolla averaged 7.3 points and 4.6 rebounds for Spain's fourth-place team at the 2014 U17 World Championship. He also competed at the 2014 U18 and 2013 U16 European Championships.
Senior forward Alec Peters believes Sorolla's background is evident.
"He's been really composed for a freshman," Peters said. "He's played on a larger scale than what he's playing here, more nerve-racking than playing college basketball.
"He's done everything we've asked of him and even more. He's not really asked to score a whole lot, but he's still using those opportunities where he gets offensive rebounds or gets that deep spot in the post to turn and score over people. He's altering shots on the defensive end, he's rebounding. He's doing what we need in the role he's asked to play."
That role has expanded the last two weeks.
He had eight points and nine rebounds in just 14 minutes at Kentucky.
Then, with senior Jubril Adekoya held out, Sorolla has started the last two games for the Crusaders (9-2), who play Santa Clara (5-7) on Thursday night. He played 28 minutes at Missouri State, including the entire second half. He had eight points, matching his best output, and a career-high 12 rebounds against Indiana State.
"My mentality this year is to be prepared for every second and every minute they need me to play," Sorolla said.
Sorolla, who played at Sunrise Christian Academy in Wichita, Kan., appears to be just scratching the surface of his ability.
He's been displaying a nifty repertoire of post moves and getting quality shots, even if he's not always finishing. He comprehends English fully, though he claims — debatably — he doesn't speak it very well.
Peters recognizes Sorolla's potential.
"You know you're going to get great effort from Jay, he's going to rebound, he's going to screen," Peters said. "Even though he may not understand a lot yet, he's still growing with his footwork under the basket. You know he's going to go after the ball and he's going to be an aggressive defender. He wants to learn, he works at it every day and you're starting to see it."
Coach Matt Lottich likes Sorolla's progress.
"I need him to continue to be what he is, and that's a great rebounder and a great defensive player," Lottich said. "He'll continue to make strides on the offensive end because of the work he puts in."
mosipoff@post-trib.com
Twitter @MichaelOsipoff
http://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/post-tribune/sports/ct-ptb-mens-basketball-valparaiso-jaume-sorolla-st-1222-20161221-story.html
Jay :) "Ahh, ya doesn't has to call me Johnson! You can call me Ray, or you can call me Jay, or you can call me Johnny or you can call me Sonny, or you can call me RayJay, or you can call me RJ... but ya doesn't hafta call me Johnson."
If I read Osipoff's article right the team will be without Sorolla against Chicago State as he travels home to be with family.
Quote from: M on December 23, 2016, 08:18:48 PM
If I read Osipoff's article right the team will be without Sorolla against Chicago State as he travels home to be with family.
Hopefully, that means Jubril is back. Otherwise, far too many minutes will be played by guys who either are not D-1 ready or who have more deficiencies than assets. I can't imagine anyone taking any opponent that lightly - even Chicago State.
Quote from: wh on December 23, 2016, 09:01:26 PM
Quote from: M on December 23, 2016, 08:18:48 PM
If I read Osipoff's article right the team will be without Sorolla against Chicago State as he travels home to be with family.
Hopefully, that means Jubril is back. Otherwise, far too many minutes will be played by guys who either are not D-1 ready or who have more deficiencies than assets. I can't imagine anyone taking any opponent that lightly - even Chicago State.
Just read Osipoff's tweet. Sorolla isn't just going home for Christmas per se, his Dad is also sick. Obviously, that puts a different light on things.
M. It might have been helpful to know that "minor" little detail - BEFORE I posted. ;)
To be fair, I didn't say he was going home for Christmas but to be with family.
Quote from: M on December 23, 2016, 10:50:31 PM
To be fair, I didn't say he was going home for Christmas but to be with family.
You're right. :)
Looks like we'll be really short-handed for Chicago State without Jubril and Jay. If the situation with Jubril requires facing the honor council, ( unless he has already ) it's going to be awhile before that can happen, since the Campus is closed down until Jan 11th. So that means at least four more games missed before a hearing could be held and then maybe a couple more games before a decision is made. All speculation on my part and somewhat pessimistic. I hope I'm wrong and he's serving out his "Sentence" now and will return soon because we need him. I know we should respect an individual's privacy, but not hearing any explanation from the coaching staff just leads to frustration for the fans.
I would bet that if he has to meet the council that it has already happened and he is serving his sentence. I'd think they would speed his case along and since we knew about it well before break I would think he's already been there.
Was surprised when in the last Valpo basketball preview video Matt mentioned that Derrik has been battling injuries. Thought he played halfway decent against Santa Clara but then didn't get back in the game later. Hopefully he's able to play extended minutes if both Jay and Jubril are unavailable. He needs the time on the court.
The Transfer Redshirt John Middleton is no longer with the team:
https://twitter.com/NWIOren/status/815030045181874177
https://twitter.com/NWIOren/status/815030811552546817
https://twitter.com/NWIOren/status/815031232086020096
https://twitter.com/NWIOren/status/815031727081005056
https://twitter.com/NWIOren/status/815037344428462080
https://twitter.com/MichaelOsipoff/status/815027966161907715
https://twitter.com/MichaelOsipoff/status/815028685250134018
Per our beloved Chef in a tweet late NYE or early this morning.
@ValpoBasketball played 38 games in 2016 and won 31 of them. That's the most wins during a calendar year in school history.
Quote from: bsmith21 on January 05, 2017, 12:44:07 PM
Lunardi has Oakland as a 13 and us not in.
Other interesting
9 teams from a bad big ten
38 from power 6
Butler 3
IU 9
RI Playin-11 (last 4 in) (only tournament win)
Oregon-4
Kentucky-2
Purdue-6
ND-5
He just goes by win loss record for auto-bids. It still makes no sense.
Quote from: a3uge on January 05, 2017, 12:55:49 PM
He just goes by win loss record for auto-bids. It still makes no sense.
It suggests laziness - that makes sense.
This is NOT photo-shopped!! ???
https://twitter.com/jjboggs/status/819718188363554816
Quote from: VU2014 on January 12, 2017, 07:35:14 PM
This is NOT photo-shopped!! ???
https://twitter.com/jjboggs/status/819718188363554816
It might have been displayed that way on the screen but it didn't happen that way.
http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/playbyplay?gameId=400918522
haha wow ESPN having some tech issues. That twitter picture is spreading around twitter right now haha.
Quote from: bbtds on January 12, 2017, 07:40:59 PM
Quote from: VU2014 on January 12, 2017, 07:35:14 PM
This is NOT photo-shopped!! ???
https://twitter.com/jjboggs/status/819718188363554816
It might have been displayed that way on the screen but it didn't happen that way.
http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/playbyplay?gameId=400918522
Good D
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Quote from: VULB#62 on January 05, 2017, 01:53:44 PM
Quote from: a3uge on January 05, 2017, 12:55:49 PM
He just goes by win loss record for auto-bids. It still makes no sense.
It suggests laziness - that makes sense.
What makes no sense is that in 2017 people still expect Joe Lunardi to make sense.
What have I been trying to tell you all these years? :banghead:
After tonight, I'm wondering whether or not our worst loss will be to Oakland. Kampe (with the worst possible look for a head coach--A PLAID SHIRT!!) continues to get a bunch of top 100 players who can't be coached for more than one game. Let's hope the colapse continues.
Quote from: vu72 on January 16, 2017, 09:36:27 PM
After tonight, I'm wondering whether or not our worst loss will be to Oakland. Kampe (with the worst possible look for a head coach--A PLAID SHIRT!!) continues to get a bunch of top 100 players who can't be coached for more than one game. Let's hope the colapse continues.
I also saw the plaid. Gary Waters was wearing a plaid shirt as well, under his suit coat. It must have been some sort of fundraiser or raising awareness for something.
I have a feeling Oakland may no longer be aware that defense is necessary.
They are a different team without Brock the rim protector. He's only a freshman too.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mb0sFLHPq9U
I think Matt is clearly on to something regarding Lexus and he has referenced it before. Lexus is wearing down because of the injuries and years off. I looked back at some of the BYU game and he was flying around the court and making 3's. Not quite so much at this point. The moves he has made are making a thin bench less thin and during a long season will no doubt be better than playing Alec for 40 every game.
Was this article already posted?
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2639716-ranking-the-best-mid-major-programs-in-college-basketball
Feels like it was written pre-season but carries a January date line.
Decent piece ranking the best midmajor programs, with emphasis on success in the last decade or so.
Valpo at #11.
Can we make a note that no other HL team made the list.
Quote from: oklahomamick on January 24, 2017, 08:47:17 AM
Can we make a note that no other HL team made the list.
The only conferences that had multiple teams on the list were the A10 (a regular multiple bid league and a borderline mid-major), Missouri Valley (our "dream conference"), The Mountain West and the West Coast Conference (It helps that Gonzaga raised that conference's profile).
The American East, Big Sky, Ivy League, MAAAAAAC, OVC, Southern Independant and WAC were all included.
Somewhere wh pointed out that our two freshman bigs have matured and are playing solid basketball while Jubril is out.
Here are the numbers: Since Derrik has started and J has been available (was out for his dad), starting at the UIC game in Chicago,(seven games), the two have a combined average of 14 points and 10 rebounds. This compares to last year where Vashil and Jubril averaged a combined 11.7 ppg and 11.4 boards. :clap: :clap: :clap:
Quote from: vu72 on January 24, 2017, 09:09:45 AM
Somewhere wh pointed out that our two freshman bigs have matured and are playing solid basketball while Jubril is out.
Here are the numbers: Since Derrik has started and J has been available (was out for his dad), starting at the UIC game in Chicago,(seven games), the two have a combined average of 14 points and 10 rebounds. This compares to last year where Vashil and Jubril averaged a combined 11.7 ppg and 11.4 boards. :clap: :clap: :clap:
IF Jubril comes back, I wouldn't even play him at the 5 unless it was against a team with a highly mobile 3 point threat 5 man. Have him coming off the bench at the 4 and slide Peters up to the 3 more often. Takes some of the minutes load off Hammink/Tevonn/Peters. Like others have stated, March is most important, need to be fresh when it matters.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DN03kIhTJPg
Valpo Basketball put out a video thanking the Troops for their service out on the YouTube Channel.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QMj_xeI80cE
Nice vid. Was shown at Friday's game as well.
Our mid-major broadcasting friend Mark Adams writes this for the ASN Network.
http://americansportsnet.com/news/featured/beyond-the-arc-t-is-for-triple-and-tj-cline
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pzZSlwRwmPo
Good interview with Bryce Drew. The one thing he left out though is how much of a disaster moving the conference tournament to Detroit has been.
Quote from: valpolaw on January 31, 2017, 11:35:22 AM
Good interview with Bryce Drew. The one thing he left out though is how much of a disaster moving the conference tournament to Detroit has been.
I just noticed the theme for the next home game is advertised as "Motor City Madness Night"! That will not be welcomed by those season ticket holders who sit around me and groan or curse every time the video promoting the tournament in Detroit comes on the scoreboard video screen. :crazy:
This will be where they give free tickets to everybody and their brother and still no-one will show up in Detroit. >:( :lol: :lol:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9HbjSNQ1EEc
LOVE the new backdrop!! Very professionally done. Looks more big time than the old brown sheet.
Quote from: VULB#62 on February 01, 2017, 03:20:22 PM
LOVE the new backdrop!! Very professionally done. Looks more big time than the old brown sheet.
Couldn't agree more! Well done with the new look!
https://twitter.com/jubril_adekoya/status/829016970729242625
At least he still has a sense of humor.
The subtle context and playful nature of this tweet indicates that Jubril will be playing Thursday.
Quote from: covufan on February 07, 2017, 12:58:44 PM
https://twitter.com/jubril_adekoya/status/829016970729242625
REALLY glad to see Jubril engaging with the team. Hope Thursday is his coming out party!!!
He has been darn near silent since end of November on twitter, it appears.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jiX75PZzI7U
Thought ML's assessment of the freshmen was simple and straight forward when asked about the Ups and Downs exhibited by the three freshmen: Dealing with a road trip [READ: and its change in the normal routine] and having to play night after night at a level they have never had to before]. That showed itself glaringly in the second game of the WI road trip. Of course, some of that explanation could also be assigned to the whole team for that game. I think that if we had played UWGB first, then UWM, that we would have come away with 2 wins instead of going 1-1.
https://twitter.com/PostTribSports/status/832411589575864320
http://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/post-tribune/sports/ct-ptb-mens-basketball-valparaiso-john-kiser-st-0217-20170216-story.html
On a roll: Freshman walk-on John Kiser 'brings a lot of value' to Valparaiso
February 16, 2017, 7:47 PM
By: Michael Osipoff
Post-Tribune
"John Kiser was all set to attend Purdue Northwest.
But in late June, he received a call from Valparaiso associate head coach Luke Gore about participating in a workout.
A week later, Kiser was sitting in a summer school class as a freshman walk-on for the Crusaders.
"I was just excited for the opportunity," Kiser said.
As the regular season winds down, Kiser has emerged as a contributor.
Horizon League-leading Valparaiso (21-5, 11-2) plays at second-place Oakland (19-7, 9-4) at 6 p.m. Friday on ESPN2.
If the Crusaders avenge a 78-66 home loss from Jan. 6, they will all but wrap up the regular-season title, holding a three-game lead with four remaining. A loss would leave them with minimal margin for error.
Going into the game against the Grizzlies, Kiser has played in 10 straight, with a season-high of 17 minutes. The 6-foot-5 guard/forward appeared in just eight of 16 games before Valparaiso coach Matt Lottich made a concerted effort to deepen the bench.
Kiser didn't envision this type of a role.
"I didn't really think I'd be getting this much playing time right now," Kiser said. "I was just told to work as hard as I do every day and it should come around.
........."
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IxIu77Ko8rk
In various other strings, at various times, this forum discusses the end of the season and what the post-HL tournament picture might be. As this topic is, in my mind, a comment on the season as a whole, I've posted this here.
I've come to the conclusion that our team, in its current state, will not be ready to competitively represent Valpo in the post-season. I was at first heartened by our Alec-less win at WSU and to a certain extent the close loss to NKU. But even in the NKU game, in retrospect, I thought I saw an eroding of the cohesiveness we had prior to losing AP. The poor HL quarter-final performance only confirmed that. There is now no doubt in my mind that AP was the glue that held everything together. Without him actually on the court, the 5 players out there seem lost. Can a week of practice, prior to the alphabet tourney bids being released, turn this mindset around? I think not. All of our weakness were magnified on Saturday night and there isn't much in this short time period that can change that. While I hope they will decline any post-season bids, I know they probably won't, and, therefore, I worry that getting crushed - again - is a distinct possibility, and I question whether that is good for this program. Just my :twocents:
https://twitter.com/nybuckets/status/839135963934781440
https://twitter.com/NWIOren/status/839162680548151296
The NIT should be accepted if a bid is offered because it is an NCAA run tourney and a chance to play some decent teams. Shane and Tevonn deserve that opportunity and the good crowds will be good for the frosh to continue to improve. In those game(s), we should work on who will be the alpha dog next year and let them be featured.
Any other tourney this year would not help the program move forward. Although I am a strong advocate for post-season tourneys because it allows team practices and more experiences for a young team. This team looks like time away from the gym would be more beneficial. The wheels have been tottering for the last few games and seemed to have come off versus UWM. Although Smits, Jay, Micah and the redshirts could benefit from practicing together, on the other hand, they all look beat up mentally and physically. Too many hills to climb and would rather see them all take some Spring Break, regroup and then hit the weight room and individual workouts.
I agree. In so many ways the team has never truly been able to get it's footing. Skara, than Carter, than Jubril, than Alec. One by one senior leadership on the team has been chipped away and instead of a year to learn from the elders the freshman were more and more forced into the spotlight. Good for experience but I can definitely see how mentally it could be unsettling.
I do wonder, if we're being pretty honest with ourselves, if we were told prior to this season that we weren't going to have Jubril for over half of it and Alec for the last 4 games (including conference tournament) what we would have projected their record at?
Quote from: VULB#62 on March 07, 2017, 09:14:24 AM
In various other strings, at various times, this forum discusses the end of the season and what the post-HL tournament picture might be. As this topic is, in my mind, a comment on the season as a whole, I've posted this here.
I've come to the conclusion that our team, in its current state, will not be ready to competitively represent Valpo in the post-season. I was at first heartened by our Alec-less win at WSU and to a certain extent the close loss to NKU. But even in the NKU game, in retrospect, I thought I saw an eroding of the cohesiveness we had prior to losing AP. The poor HL quarter-final performance only confirmed that. There is now no doubt in my mind that AP was the glue that held everything together. Without him actually on the court, the 5 players out there seem lost. Can a week of practice, prior to the alphabet tourney bids being released, turn this mindset around? I think not. All of our weakness were magnified on Saturday night and there isn't much in this short time period that can change that. While I hope they will decline any post-season bids, I know they probably won't, and, therefore, I worry that getting crushed - again - is a distinct possibility, and I question whether that is good for this program. Just my :twocents:
Do you still feel this way about the NIT game against Illinois in Champaign Tuesday night?
The other side of this story is if someone had revealed to Keith Carter that Rick Majerus at Saint Louis wasn't going to be the coach of the Billikens when Keith arrived at the SLU campus his freshman year and would die of a terrible disease, Keith would have chosen another school and most likely gotten a full four years of eligibility instead of getting only 2 1/2 years and being cheated out of 1 1/2 years by the NCAA. Nobody wanted to see Majerus get sick and die but I'm sure Keith's life would be very different today if he had known.
Quote from: bbtds on March 13, 2017, 08:20:07 AM
Quote from: VULB#62 on March 07, 2017, 09:14:24 AM
In various other strings, at various times, this forum discusses the end of the season and what the post-HL tournament picture might be. As this topic is, in my mind, a comment on the season as a whole, I've posted this here.
I've come to the conclusion that our team, in its current state, will not be ready to competitively represent Valpo in the post-season. I was at first heartened by our Alec-less win at WSU and to a certain extent the close loss to NKU. But even in the NKU game, in retrospect, I thought I saw an eroding of the cohesiveness we had prior to losing AP. The poor HL quarter-final performance only confirmed that. There is now no doubt in my mind that AP was the glue that held everything together. Without him actually on the court, the 5 players out there seem lost. Can a week of practice, prior to the alphabet tourney bids being released, turn this mindset around? I think not. All of our weakness were magnified on Saturday night and there isn't much in this short time period that can change that. While I hope they will decline any post-season bids, I know they probably won't, and, therefore, I worry that getting crushed - again - is a distinct possibility, and I question whether that is good for this program. Just my :twocents:
Do you still feel this way about the NIT game against Illinois in Champaign Tuesday night?
Nope. I was thrilled to see Matt's comments about the team's attitude. My reference was what they exhibited during and immediately after the UWM game. Seems like a renewed dedication and that can gain them a lot of traction for this next game. They are prohibitive underdogs from this point forward (something they haven't experienced since the OOC part of the season) and I'm sure the semi-surprise selection to the NIT is something they will not lose sight of anytime soon. It's now about getting back respect and proving they belong. That should help them keep their focus and intensity. Hoping for the best tomorrow night.
After the frustration and disappointment of recent weeks, I offer my realistic view of the season.
There are 32 conferences and only 9 received multiple bids to the NCAA tournament. Had Valparaiso and Oakland faced off in the conference finals and Oakland won, I still think Valpo would have been skipped like last year and would have had to settle for the NIT, especially if the selection committee knew Alec was out for the NCAA tournament. The same goes for Oakland if they lost to Valpo. We have to resign ourselves to the fact that the Horizon League is currently a one-bid conference in the midst of 22 other one-bid leagues. In fact, the Horizon League wound up ranked 17th among conferences. You can't get much more middling or mediocre than 17th out of 32. By comparison, the Missouri Valley Conference was 12th, the Mid-American Conference was 14th, and the Summit League was 18th, only .0028 behind the Horizon league in the final Warren Nolan RPI. (Yet, they all received only one bid as well.) In addition, the top 14 conferences had winning non-conference records, while the bottom 18 (including the Horizon League) all had losing non-conference records.
Looking at all this and seeing little evidence that the status of the Horizon League will change, I conclude Valparaiso has only one chance to make the NCAA, this year or any year, and that is to win the conference tournament. Very little else matters. With Alec's injury this year, that goal slipped away. Sure, winning the conference regular season feels good, brings a banner to the ARC, obtains first seed in the conference tournament, and guarantees an NIT berth. However, Valpo was edged out by Oakland in the conference tie-breaker after Alec's injury; yet, Valpo shares the conference title, gets a banner, had a second seed that is just as good as a first seed in the conference tournament, plus both Oakland and Valpo are #7 seeds in the NIT, and we will get a second banner for the ARC, just like last year.
Therefore, despite initial disappointment, I believe the 2016-2017 team may have achieved less than hoped but as much as could be expected given the circumstances: presence in a league that offers no help in getting a higher rpi, no Carter eligibility, no Adekoya in conference play, no Peters at the end of the season, a new head coach, and apparently a sick Shane in the conference tournament. The team enters the NIT at 24-8, a 75% winning record, though they are not as highly seeded this time and they are without Peters. Putting it all in perspective and being realistic, I think the team did fairly well against numerous obstacles and challenges. Now, I have no expectations for the NIT, and I will just enjoy watching and hope for the best, and then wish Alec well in his pursuit of an NBA career.
Good assessment.
Looking for the last time VU lost 3 in a row...
back to 2010-11
Lost to Milwaukee in the HL Tournament Final 70-63 at Milwaukee
Lost to Iona at home in the CIT tournament game 86-77
and we opened the 2011-12 year
Loss at Arizona 73-64 in Bryce's first game
for the same-season...
2005-06
Lost at Chicago State 90-76
Lost at Southern Utah 73-61
Lost at Oakland 95-89 ... in Homer's 500'th VU game
and that became a 4-game losing streak...
Lost at home in OT to IUPUI 87-72
Also had a 3-game skid at the end of 2004-05
Lost at ORU 79-65
Lost at UMKC 80-79
Loss to Chicago State in Tulsa in the MidCon Tournament 72-67
we had two 3-game skids in 2003-04
...opened with a win over Arkansas-Monticello...and then
Lost at Marquette 75-70
Lost to South Florida 64-62
Lost to Cincinnati 68-49
.... we beat Indiana State...and then...
lost to Milwaukee 86-82
lost to Loyola 76-69
lost to Louisiana-Lafayette 95-71
starting the season 2-6... and going 16-7 the rest of the year, ending in the NCAA loss to Gonzaga
https://twitter.com/MichaelOsipoff/status/842041468415954944
nerve-wracking
Quote from: covufan on March 15, 2017, 10:59:29 AM
https://twitter.com/MichaelOsipoff/status/842041468415954944
nerve-wracking
bizarre
disappointing
Unfortunate
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Unfortunate : bizarre :: sad : pathetic
https://twitter.com/MichaelOsipoff/status/847998569021833216
https://twitter.com/MichaelOsipoff/status/847998803466649601
This is a flawed ring. *Co-Champs*
https://twitter.com/chrisp_15/status/882687278757408769
Regular season at that.
Quote from: VU2014 on July 06, 2017, 11:09:56 PMThis is a flawed ring. *Co-Champs* https://twitter.com/chrisp_15/status/882687278757408769
Is it common practice to give out conference championship rings; or is Oakland showing us that it's a small-time school again?
Nice for their players, I guess, but analygous to teams who raise banners for just making a playoff. Admittedly we will probably raise an HL regular season co-champs banner in November, but rings? Come on.
And not to belabor a point but they backed into it when, without AP, we lost in the final away game of the season to allow them to tie.
Quote from: VULB#62 on July 07, 2017, 09:05:59 PM
Nice for their players, I guess, but analygous to teams who raise banners for just making a playoff. Admittedly we will probably raise an HL regular season co-champs banner in November, but rings? Come on.
And not to belabor a point but they backed into it when, without AP, we lost in the final away game of the season to allow them to tie.
Yeah banner I could see but rings was a bit much...
I actually think this is more for recruiting then anything else. Oakland hasn't won much in recent history so they may be trying to puff their chest a little bit. They are blasting the "Champion" (*Co-Champ*) rings all over social media and they want recruits/fans to see them. Kampe needs impact recruits after these seniors expire their eligibility or get some more transfer. I'm pretty cynical on these things. I don't think its just about doing something nice for the team.
Quote from: VU2014 on July 07, 2017, 10:29:34 PMQuote from: VULB#62 on July 07, 2017, 09:05:59 PMNice for their players, I guess, but analygous to teams who raise banners for just making a playoff. Admittedly we will probably raise an HL regular season co-champs banner in November, but rings? Come on. And not to belabor a point but they backed into it when, without AP, we lost in the final away game of the season to allow them to tie.
Yeah banner I could see but rings was a bit much... I actually think this is more for recruiting then anything else. Oakland hasn't won much in recent history so they may be trying to puff their chest a little bit. They are blasting the "Champion" (*Co-Champ*) rings all over social media and they want recruits/fans to see them. Kampe needs impact recruits after these seniors expire their eligibility or get some more transfer. I'm pretty cynical on these things. I don't think its just about doing something nice for the team.
I hope they don't pull this crap if they win next year. They're supposed to. Falling short with the roster they have would be as embarrassing as our 2015-2016 team falling short of a HL title would have been. Frankly the rings wouldn't impress me as a recruit. It just looks tacky especially when a quick google search would show that they didn't even win the title outright. It doesn't project power strength and dominance to recruits; on the contrary, it projects weakness and insecurity and indicates that the school has no culture of winning and no expectation of success.