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Valpo Sports => Valpo Basketball => Topic started by: vu72 on October 24, 2011, 09:54:09 AM

Title: 10/29/11: Hillsdale Game Thread
Post by: vu72 on October 24, 2011, 09:54:09 AM
These guys may be tougher than some of us thought.  They have plenty of size:

http://www.hillsdale.edu/athletics/mens_basketball/roster.asp (http://www.hillsdale.edu/athletics/mens_basketball/roster.asp)

Here is a preview interview with their coach: (actually this looks like last year's preview but you can get some idea anyway!)

http://www.gliac.org/mediaDay/mbkb/index (http://www.gliac.org/mediaDay/mbkb/index)
Title: Re: Hillsdale preview
Post by: zvillehaze on October 24, 2011, 10:51:31 AM
Quote from: vu72 on October 24, 2011, 09:54:09 AM
These guys may be tougher than some of us thought.  They have plenty of size:

http://www.hillsdale.edu/athletics/mens_basketball/roster.asp (http://www.hillsdale.edu/athletics/mens_basketball/roster.asp)

Here is a preview interview with their coach: (actually this looks like last year's preview but you can get some idea anyway!)

http://www.gliac.org/mediaDay/mbkb/index (http://www.gliac.org/mediaDay/mbkb/index)

That assessment is spot on.  Hillsdale returns their top 4 scorers from last year's very good 20-6 team. 

They aren't IUSB or Purdue North Central ... they'll provide a meaningful test.  A convincing win would certainly be a good sign for the season.  Good luck!
Title: Re: Hillsdale preview
Post by: wh on October 24, 2011, 12:35:22 PM
Quote from: zvillehaze on October 24, 2011, 10:51:31 AM
Quote from: vu72 on October 24, 2011, 09:54:09 AM
These guys may be tougher than some of us thought.  They have plenty of size:

http://www.hillsdale.edu/athletics/mens_basketball/roster.asp (http://www.hillsdale.edu/athletics/mens_basketball/roster.asp)

Here is a preview interview with their coach: (actually this looks like last year's preview but you can get some idea anyway!)

http://www.gliac.org/mediaDay/mbkb/index (http://www.gliac.org/mediaDay/mbkb/index)

That assessment is spot on.  Hillsdale returns their top 4 scorers from last year's very good 20-6 team. 

They aren't IUSB or Purdue North Central ... they'll provide a meaningful test.  A convincing win would certainly be a good sign for the season.  Good luck!

It wouldn't be the first time we lost to a good non-D-1 team:

11-1-09    U. Indianapolis 88 Valpo 83

I was at that game.  We were clearly outplayed - especially in the post.  Cory and Michael Rogers got schooled down low by some guy who definitely like he could (and should) have been playing at a higher level. 
Title: Re: Hillsdale preview
Post by: vu84v2 on October 24, 2011, 06:15:09 PM
1997-1998:  Lost to Bethel in first game (without Bryce).  As I recall, the team seemed to get it together as the season went on.
Title: Re: Hillsdale preview
Post by: vuweathernerd on October 24, 2011, 07:16:57 PM
Quote from: wh on October 24, 2011, 12:35:22 PM
Quote from: zvillehaze on October 24, 2011, 10:51:31 AM
Quote from: vu72 on October 24, 2011, 09:54:09 AM
These guys may be tougher than some of us thought.  They have plenty of size:

http://www.hillsdale.edu/athletics/mens_basketball/roster.asp (http://www.hillsdale.edu/athletics/mens_basketball/roster.asp)

Here is a preview interview with their coach: (actually this looks like last year's preview but you can get some idea anyway!)

http://www.gliac.org/mediaDay/mbkb/index (http://www.gliac.org/mediaDay/mbkb/index)

That assessment is spot on.  Hillsdale returns their top 4 scorers from last year's very good 20-6 team. 

They aren't IUSB or Purdue North Central ... they'll provide a meaningful test.  A convincing win would certainly be a good sign for the season.  Good luck!

It wouldn't be the first time we lost to a good non-D-1 team:

11-1-09    U. Indianapolis 88 Valpo 83

I was at that game.  We were clearly outplayed - especially in the post.  Cory and Michael Rogers got schooled down low by some guy who definitely like he could (and should) have been playing at a higher level. 

i remember that game. that was painful to sit through.
Title: Re: Hillsdale preview
Post by: historyman on October 24, 2011, 11:00:49 PM
Quote from: vu72 on October 24, 2011, 09:54:09 AM
These guys may be tougher than some of us thought.  They have plenty of size:

http://www.hillsdale.edu/athletics/mens_basketball/roster.asp (http://www.hillsdale.edu/athletics/mens_basketball/roster.asp)

Here is a preview interview with their coach: (actually this looks like last year's preview but you can get some idea anyway!)

http://www.gliac.org/mediaDay/mbkb/index (http://www.gliac.org/mediaDay/mbkb/index)

Interesting that you would now say this:

Quote from: historyman on September 06, 2011, 01:17:07 PM
The Crusaders better not take Hillsdale for granted. They have a 7' 1" center named Brandon Crane from Midland, MI who is a redshirt freshman playing his first game for Hillsdale against Valpo.

http://www.hillsdale.edu/admissions/news/news_story.asp?iNewsID=2354&strBack=%2Fadmissions%2Fnews%2Fnews_archive.asp (http://www.hillsdale.edu/admissions/news/news_story.asp?iNewsID=2354&strBack=%2Fadmissions%2Fnews%2Fnews_archive.asp)

Averaged more than four blocks per game in each of his last two seasons for MHS, and helped the team double its win total from the year before in 2009-10...Was a team captain for two years and broke school records for most blocked shots in a game (11), season (103) and career (223)...Averaged 10 points per game as a senior, and is among the state of Michigan's all-time best shot blockers.

We don't need a repeat of the U of Indianapolis loss.

Quote from: vu72 on September 06, 2011, 01:45:40 PM
Somehow I think we can match his size  :o  but am concerned about any 7'1" who could average a mighty 10 ppg playing in high school.   ;)  Funny how they don't list his weight...just a guess...200??  Can you imagine him trying to push Kevin around!  Do you think there is a reason why he is at Hillsdale and not a D1??
Title: Re: Hillsdale preview
Post by: vu72 on October 26, 2011, 08:43:05 AM
Just looked at the hillsdale site and there is no mention of the game.  Interesting how D2 and D3 schools either don't care or have such a small staff they can't even write a story.

This is a BIG change for them.  I looked back several years and they never have played a D1 to start the season or ever, for that matter.  Not only do they face us, they follow it up with a game at Michigan State.  I think someone might find this of interest  ???
Title: Re: Hillsdale preview
Post by: FWalum on October 26, 2011, 09:11:09 AM
Quote from: vu72 on October 26, 2011, 08:43:05 AM
Just looked at the hillsdale site and there is no mention of the game.  Interesting how D2 and D3 schools either don't care or have such a small staff they can't even write a story.

This is a BIG change for them.  I looked back several years and they never have played a D1 to start the season or ever, for that matter.  Not only do they face us, they follow it up with a game at Michigan State.  I think someone might find this of interest  ???
I suspect that the issue is access. The people to whom this is interesting have no access to update or add to the website.  We had similar issues at Tech.  Staffs are much smaller at these schools and day to day activity takes precedent.  We were never given access to make updates even though my full time job was in software development and I was completely capable of making any update that we would have liked to make. The answer was always "sorry, you are not authorized to do that, we will get someone to make those changes for you" and it rarely happened.
Title: Re: Hillsdale preview
Post by: agibson on October 26, 2011, 10:15:58 AM
Quote from: FWalum on October 26, 2011, 09:11:09 AM
I suspect that the issue is access. The people to whom this is interesting have no access to update or add to the website.  We had similar issues at Tech.  Staffs are much smaller at these schools and day to day activity takes precedent.  We were never given access to make updates even though my full time job was in software development and I was completely capable of making any update that we would have liked to make. The answer was always "sorry, you are not authorized to do that, we will get someone to make those changes for you" and it rarely happened.

Interesting!  I can imagine that, even in a more open technological environment (e.g. if they were willing to give access to the coaches), that time must be very tight.  It's a constant task to keep information flowing and websites updated.  It must be hard without a dedicated person to handle it (SID, or content-producing webmaster, etc.).
Title: Re: Hillsdale preview
Post by: sectionee on October 26, 2011, 05:40:35 PM
http://sectionee.blogspot.com/2011/10/game-preview-pre-season-opener-vs.html (http://sectionee.blogspot.com/2011/10/game-preview-pre-season-opener-vs.html)

Title: Re: Hillsdale preview
Post by: EddieCabot on October 26, 2011, 07:00:05 PM
"98-52"??  If you're giving 46 points, I'll put $100 on Hillsdale.  I'll contact you after the game with my mailing address.
Title: Re: Hillsdale preview
Post by: sectionee on October 26, 2011, 07:08:16 PM
I'm definitely a gambling addict, but would certainly have to adjust the point spread a bit before taking any friendly wagers.  The point is the game won't be close.
Title: Re: Hillsdale preview
Post by: EddieCabot on October 26, 2011, 08:36:58 PM
Quote from: sectionee on October 26, 2011, 07:08:16 PM
I'm definitely a gambling addict, but would certainly have to adjust the point spread a bit before taking any friendly wagers.  The point is the game won't be close.

What's your defintion of "close"?  FWIW, it Valpo dominates this game and wins by 40+ points, I'm moving all my chips behind them to win the league.  Hillsdale is better (much better) than several of the teams on your regular season schedule.  In fact, they might be better than some Horizon League teams this year.  
Title: Re: Hillsdale preview
Post by: vu72 on October 28, 2011, 11:24:02 AM
I just focused on the athletic website to notice that, for the first time, the football game will be on the net video wise. Apparently they can't move the equipment back into the ARC fast enough  :crazy: because for the first time in my recollection the basketball game won't be televised.  In fact it appears it won't even be on the radio!

What the heck is up with that??   :'(
Title: Re: Hillsdale preview
Post by: vusupporter on October 28, 2011, 11:39:35 AM
Quote from: vu72 on October 28, 2011, 11:24:02 AM
I just focused on the athletic website to notice that, for the first time, the football game will be on the net video wise. Apparently they can't move the equipment back into the ARC fast enough  :crazy: because for the first time in my recollection the basketball game won't be televised.  In fact it appears it won't even be on the radio!

What the heck is up with that??   :'(

Exhibition games traditionally haven't been video streamed.  Keeps early opponents from being able to scout this year's team.  We're not the only school in the league that doesn't video stream exhibitions - looking at the HL site, it appears UIC, Milwaukee and Cleveland State are the only schools streaming exhibitions.
Title: Re: Hillsdale preview
Post by: Pgmado on October 28, 2011, 01:41:48 PM
Looks like you'll have to follow on Twitter or the live blogs!

@NWIOren
#ValpoHoops
Title: Re: Hillsdale preview
Post by: valpofan56 on October 28, 2011, 01:48:58 PM
Quote from: vusupporter on October 28, 2011, 11:39:35 AM
Quote from: vu72 on October 28, 2011, 11:24:02 AM
I just focused on the athletic website to notice that, for the first time, the football game will be on the net video wise. Apparently they can't move the equipment back into the ARC fast enough  :crazy: because for the first time in my recollection the basketball game won't be televised.  In fact it appears it won't even be on the radio!

What the heck is up with that??   :'(

Exhibition games traditionally haven't been video streamed.  Keeps early opponents from being able to scout this year's team.  We're not the only school in the league that doesn't video stream exhibitions - looking at the HL site, it appears UIC, Milwaukee and Cleveland State are the only schools streaming exhibitions.

If I recall correctly, exhibition games have been streamed live in the past, but they just weren't archived on the HLN site.
Title: Re: Hillsdale preview
Post by: agibson on October 28, 2011, 05:27:25 PM
Definitely not archived, historically.  Traditionally the archive was... what... no non-conference games, except maybe those that occur after the bulk (not the preview) of the conference schedule has started.
Title: Re: Hillsdale preview
Post by: valporun on October 28, 2011, 06:39:50 PM
I think it was usually games after January 1st were archived, basically meaning that even the first one or two HL games, depending on travel partners, weren't archived either. I'd rather have the basketball exhibition broadcast, and leave the football game to audio only, but we'll just have to live without it, I guess.
Title: Re: Hillsdale preview
Post by: agibson on October 29, 2011, 02:44:33 PM
Game day pieces out from the Times (nice Edwards feature, tattoos), etc.
http://www.nwitimes.com/sports/college/valparaiso-university/article_8c393773-5349-5ad5-b737-e772f505ba74.html (http://www.nwitimes.com/sports/college/valparaiso-university/article_8c393773-5349-5ad5-b737-e772f505ba74.html)

and the Post Tribune (more of a "welcome to the new team" sort of a piece)
http://posttrib.suntimes.com/sports/colleges/8475343-419/bryce-drew-takes-the-helm-for-a-valpo-team-in-transition.html (http://posttrib.suntimes.com/sports/colleges/8475343-419/bryce-drew-takes-the-helm-for-a-valpo-team-in-transition.html)
Title: Re: Hillsdale preview
Post by: agibson on October 29, 2011, 03:05:45 PM
I am a little surprised that WVUR's covering the soccer game, instead of the basketball.  Then again, the soccer game actually counts in the standings!

But, the athletics folks come through again.  In addition to GameTracker, there will be a live basketball chat.

http://www.valpoathletics.com/mbasketball/news/2011-12/11132/join-the-live-chat-for-bryces-first-game-saturday-night/ (http://www.valpoathletics.com/mbasketball/news/2011-12/11132/join-the-live-chat-for-bryces-first-game-saturday-night/)

So, at least a small bone thrown to the die-hard, remote, fans.
Title: Re: 10/29/11: Hillsdale Game Thread
Post by: johnestuff on October 29, 2011, 04:02:31 PM
Will game tracker still be available later on tonight? I am not able to access it until later.
Title: Re: 10/29/11: Hillsdale Game Thread
Post by: agibson on October 29, 2011, 08:01:54 PM
I think it was meant to be.

Soccer and basketball seem to be exactly synced, so looks like I'll miss the action.  But, at least it's warm in the ARC.

Valpo 33-31 at the half.

Soccer's tied nill nill.  UIC looked very dangerous a couple of times, but relatively even.  We may have had a bit more possession.

Anybody have the score of the Green Bay Wright State soccer game?  Only tweet I could find, uwgb les - meaning valpo can't clinch tonight.
Title: Re: 10/29/11: Hillsdale Game Thread
Post by: Crusader03 on October 29, 2011, 09:40:50 PM
Quote from: agibson on October 29, 2011, 08:01:54 PM
I think it was meant to be.

Soccer and basketball seem to be exactly synced, so looks like I'll miss the action.  But, at least it's warm in the ARC.

Valpo 33-31 at the half.

Soccer's tied nill nill.  UIC looked very dangerous a couple of times, but relatively even.  We may have had a bit more possession.

Anybody have the score of the Green Bay Wright State soccer game?  Only tweet I could find, uwgb les - meaning valpo can't clinch tonight.

Valpo clinched tonight
Title: Re: 10/29/11: Hillsdale Game Thread
Post by: RS on October 29, 2011, 09:42:29 PM
Valpo wins 73 -71 on field goal and free throw by Van Wijk with 5 seconds remaining. Kevin scored 23 , Ryan 20 and Harris 10 to lead crusaders.  Team had terrible shooting night. Free throws won the game since Valpo made 26 out of 39. Hillsdale only made 9 of 15. three point shooting was terrible. Won't get into negative about players but Hillsdale outplayed Valpo. They were bigger and took advantage of their size. Fouls were our only saving grace. Still need a long way to go before D1 competition starts. Fair sized crowd. Not many students but scoreboard was as good as advertized.
Title: Re: 10/29/11: Hillsdale Game Thread
Post by: valpotx on October 29, 2011, 09:49:06 PM
Good to at least get a win, and see that Kevin contributed quite a bit!
Title: Re: 10/29/11: Hillsdale Game Thread
Post by: vu84v2 on October 29, 2011, 09:53:58 PM
Turns out I was able to attend the game...

Scoreboard good - especially at the introduction with the video.  I don't like things like the "loudness meter".  Not a lot of originality or spirit in having the scoreboard tell or encouarge the fans what to do.

No way there were 2600 in attendance - more like 1500.

Broekhoff, Van Wijk, and the defense half of Buggs were the only positive things.  Team looked good in short stretches on offense, but flat and non-energetic quite a bit of the time.  Shooting was awful. Defense was decent at times, lost or outplayed at other times. Like RS, I won't single anyone out, but none of the new players vs. last year's roster impressed.  

Hillsdale played hard and had some solid guys and played a good team game.
Title: Re: Hillsdale preview
Post by: EddieCabot on October 29, 2011, 10:13:50 PM
Quote from: sectionee on October 26, 2011, 07:08:16 PM
The point is the game won't be close.

As I pointed out, Hillsdale is good.  I thought they'd need a big game from Eaton to win, but they still stayed close with him on the bench most of the night.  Good game from Van Wijk.
Title: Re: 10/29/11: Hillsdale Game Thread
Post by: sectionee on October 29, 2011, 10:15:53 PM
Valpo played pretty poorly but kudos to Hillsdale for shooting it well from outside.  I certainly overestimated the new guys for one night at least.

Anyways, here is my wrap up.  Didn't stick around for the post game, had to get my son outside for the fireworks!

http://sectionee.blogspot.com/2011/10/game-wrap-up-coachable-victory.html (http://sectionee.blogspot.com/2011/10/game-wrap-up-coachable-victory.html)
Title: Re: 10/29/11: Hillsdale Game Thread
Post by: wh on October 30, 2011, 12:04:28 AM
Here are my thoughts about the game:

- In reading others' comments, someone said they thought we looked flat.  Flat seems to connotate that either we weren't up for the game, or we weren't in the game mentally.  I didn't really see that.  The guys worked hard from beginning to end.
- If anything, I would say we were out of sinc, which shouldn't be a big surprise given that we lost nearly 70% of our shooting from a year ago, plus are trying to blend in a lot of new players.  I also think it didn't help that Hillsdale players were constantly fouling.  It seemed like we could never get into a rhythm and that was at least part of the reason. 
- I give Hillsdale a lot of credit, but we had a lot of open looks that just didn't go down.  Had we hit anywhere close to a respectable pct., the game would not have been that close. 
- We have A LOT of work to do on defense.  Far too many times, no one moveHid to help stop dribble penetration and the dribbler was able to finish unmolested.  Hillsdale also posted up players when they saw they had a height advantage.  Our guys were supposed to double the poster immediately after he received the entry pass, but arrived too late several times.  Also, it looked like they didn't know for sure who should be doubling.   That's all stuff that I'm sure Bryce will address and get straightened out in short order.

I like our guys.  I think they'll be fine given a little time to blend together.     
Title: Re: 10/29/11: Hillsdale Game Thread
Post by: valpopal on October 30, 2011, 12:27:47 AM
Ryan and Kevin were terrific, the rest of the team shot less than 25%. Though the team shot only 23% from the 3-point line, Harris hit a couple of clutch 3-pointers, and Buggs played his typically tight defense. The rest of the team played as if they were in division II, while Hillsdale often played as if they were a division I team on offense, especially with their three-point shooting. However, they were clearly slower than the VU players, whose quickness continually drew fouls. Fortunately, the free throw disparity helped keep Valpo in the game. At 67% the free throw percentage was not great, but good enough, and also good was the possible evidence of improvement in Buggs' free throw shot. Oddity: Ryan and Kevin played 57 minutes and scored 43 points; yet, neither committed a foul all night.

The new guys all seemed uncomfortable: Edwards seemed to be too quick to shoot and had trouble with his outside shot; he also appears more suitable for the 4 position instead of the 5, where he will be more than I would like to see. Bogan appears to be a good passer, but he showed no evidence tonight of being the pure shooter Bryce claims. Kurth doesn't seem to have found any added offense to his game. Bryce apparently does not see Vucic as much of a contributor again this year, since he only played 3 minutes in an exhibition game where Fernandez is still ineligible. Speaking of Bryce, it sounded strange to hear him introduced as the Crusaders' head coach, and I detected no significant difference from Homer in his coaching style tonight.

The new scoreboards are excellent, especially the ongoing stats, though there seemed to be a glitch getting the opening video started. Also, as good as the intro video is, at more than a minute and a half, it might be about 30 seconds too long (though that may just be because of the long delay in it getting underway). The visiting fans near me were getting restless during it, and the Hillsdale coach and officials seemed to be getting impatient as the video ran so long after the brief delay by the glitch. I wonder how this will be greeted by HL teams. There is also a lot of potential for additional video features during timeouts in the future. The sound system seemed to be slightly improved, but at times the PA was muddled.
Title: Re: 10/29/11: Hillsdale Game Thread
Post by: humbleopinion on October 30, 2011, 07:25:19 AM
I've been reminding myself that this was just an exhibition game...

As I looked at the lineup down the stretch, it was noteworthy that none of the newcomers were in the game -- then, in the last minute, Bryce pulled Jay Harris and put in Will Bogan who found Kevin for the final basket.

I was really hoping to be wowed by the new guys, but that was not the case.  We need to be able to be effective from the outside in order to win games, and there was very little evidence of that last night.  On the other hand, Hillsdale made the most of their looks, and they had way too many of them.

It was just an exhibition game -- a game for learning and building confidence.
Title: Re: 10/29/11: Hillsdale Game Thread
Post by: wh on October 30, 2011, 11:01:04 AM
Quote from: zvillehaze on October 24, 2011, 10:51:31 AM
Quote from: vu72 on October 24, 2011, 09:54:09 AM
These guys may be tougher than some of us thought.  They have plenty of size:

http://www.hillsdale.edu/athletics/mens_basketball/roster.asp (http://www.hillsdale.edu/athletics/mens_basketball/roster.asp)

Here is a preview interview with their coach: (actually this looks like last year's preview but you can get some idea anyway!)

http://www.gliac.org/mediaDay/mbkb/index (http://www.gliac.org/mediaDay/mbkb/index)

That assessment is spot on.  Hillsdale returns their top 4 scorers from last year's very good 20-6 team. 

They aren't IUSB or Purdue North Central ... they'll provide a meaningful test.  A convincing win would certainly be a good sign for the season.  Good luck!

Playing IUSB and PNC is like the varsity playing the jr. varsity.  I've been on both sides of those match-ups back in the day, and the value to anyone on the court is fairly limited.  To zville's point, playing Hillsdale was completely different in that respect.  There were no gimmes - we had to work for every point.  They were able to expose our weaknesses and took advantage of our mistakes.  Overall, it provided a good learning experience and we still came away with a win, which is always good for team confidence. 
Title: Re: 10/29/11: Hillsdale Game Thread
Post by: vu72 on October 30, 2011, 11:18:23 AM
For those who weren't "wowed" by the new guys, consider a couple of facts.  First, this was their first game as a Crusader and no doubt the need to excel may have played a part in their shooting percentage.

Second, remember the first game in a Crusader uniform for Cory Johnson and Brandon Wood?  A loss to Indianapolis and a combined 6 for 16 night and a total between the two of 16 points.  Somehow, those two turned out to be among the best players to ever wear the Brown and Gold.  I'd give them another game or two to see how things turn out!   ;)

Here's the Indianapolis box score:

http://www.valpoathletics.com/media/basketball-men/2009-10/Boxscores_stats/mbbex1.htm (http://www.valpoathletics.com/media/basketball-men/2009-10/Boxscores_stats/mbbex1.htm)
Title: Re: 10/29/11: Hillsdale Game Thread
Post by: dylanrocks on October 30, 2011, 01:53:07 PM
So, all the heralded newcomers combined for exactly 10 points Saturday against Hillsdale (Edwards 8, Bogan 2).

To put it bluntly, you guys are going to need more production from your newcomers in order to finish in the upper half of the league.
Title: Re: 10/29/11: Hillsdale Game Thread
Post by: zvillehaze on October 30, 2011, 02:01:21 PM
That's why they play these games ... to get guys familar with the system and each other.  I'd expect a much better performance (and a lopsided win) against DIII Augustana this week.

I do have one question for you ... after one game, it looks like Broekhoff is back in the 4 spot primarily (and Kenney at the 3).  Do you see that changing?  If so, who do you see taking the minutes at the 4 and 5 spots to allow Broekhoff to slide to the 3?

I guess once Fernandez is cleared, he might be part of the answer.  Increasing time for both Van Wijk and Edwards might happen also.  Based on a sample of one game, the vast improvement of Vucic appears to have been an overstatement.

IMO, with all the depth at guard, Bryce may continue with the small lineup just to get his best players on the floor.  I guess we'll see, but would be interested in the thoughts of guys closer to the program or who saw the game last night.
Title: Re: 10/29/11: Hillsdale Game Thread
Post by: vu72 on October 30, 2011, 03:02:24 PM
Quote from: dylanrocks on October 30, 2011, 01:53:07 PM
So, all the heralded newcomers combined for exactly 10 points Saturday against Hillsdale (Edwards 8, Bogan 2).

To put it bluntly, you guys are going to need more production from your newcomers in order to finish in the upper half of the league.

Ah, three of the "new guys" never hit the court.  I'd hold judgement for a while

Quote from: zvillehaze on October 30, 2011, 02:01:21 PM
That's why they play these games ... to get guys familar with the system and each other.  I'd expect a much better performance (and a lopsided win) against DIII Augustana this week.

I do have one question for you ... after one game, it looks like Broekhoff is back in the 4 spot primarily (and Kenney at the 3).  Do you see that changing?  If so, who do you see taking the minutes at the 4 and 5 spots to allow Broekhoff to slide to the 3?

I guess once Fernandez is cleared, he might be part of the answer.  Increasing time for both Van Wijk and Edwards might happen also.  Based on a sample of one game, the vast improvement of Vucic appears to have been an overstatement.

IMO, with all the depth at guard, Bryce may continue with the small lineup just to get his best players on the floor.  I guess we'll see, but would be interested in the thoughts of guys closer to the program or who saw the game last night.

Not having video or audio, not sure how you figured Ryan was playing the 4.  Clearly Kenney is a backup plan at the 3 but Edwards is the primary answer at the 4.  Broekhoff will be very tough to stop at the 3.
Title: Re: 10/29/11: Hillsdale Game Thread
Post by: dylanrocks on October 30, 2011, 03:21:33 PM
Three guys didn't play? Not cleared yet?

No judgment. Just a statement.

You can't rely on Ryan Broekhoff and especially Kevin Van Wijk to get double-doubles against D-1 competition.
Title: Re: 10/29/11: Hillsdale Game Thread
Post by: zvillehaze on October 30, 2011, 03:28:29 PM
Quote from: vu72 on October 30, 2011, 03:02:24 PM
Not having video or audio, not sure how you figured Ryan was playing the 4.  Clearly Kenney is a backup plan at the 3 but Edwards is the primary answer at the 4.  Broekhoff will be very tough to stop at the 3.

I "figured" it from the box score.  I'll share my work and you can point out where I'm wrong.

Total minutes for 4 and 5 spots = 80
Minutes played by obvious 4 and 5 guys = 46 (Van Wijk 24, Edwards 19, Vucic 3)
By my math, that leaves 34 minutes unaccounted for.  I assumed that Broekhoff's 33 minutes represented most of that.

If not Broekhoff, then you're telling me that the missing 34 minutes at the 4 spot were played by one of these guys ... Buggs, Harris, Kenney, Kurth or Bogan.  Is that what you're telling me?
Title: Re: 10/29/11: Hillsdale Game Thread
Post by: valpopal on October 30, 2011, 03:37:46 PM
Quote from: vu72 on October 30, 2011, 03:02:24 PM

Not having video or audio, not sure how you figured Ryan was playing the 4.  Clearly Kenney is a backup plan at the 3 but Edwards is the primary answer at the 4.  Broekhoff will be very tough to stop at the 3.

Ryan started at the 4 and played that position most of the game with Edwards not starting and usually coming in to spell Kevin.

I also would like to see Ryan more at the 3, while Kevin and Edwards play the 5 and 4. Perhaps if Fernandez and Jakolis were eligible, that could be the case. Ideally, I think the starting lineup and subs should be Kevin (Fernandez), Richie (Jakolis), Ryan (Kenney), Jay (Bogan), and Erik (Kurth), but that is not where we are at this point due to the ineligibility of Fernandez, Jakolis, and Boggs (who seems likely to redshirt this year).  
Title: Re: 10/29/11: Hillsdale Game Thread
Post by: sectionee on October 30, 2011, 03:39:31 PM
Broekhoff typically was at the 4 last night.  I think he will probably end up staying there until/unless we get a third big guy who can contribute.  KVW will be a starter and will be effective.  Edwards will have to come off the bench to provide some relief unless Fernandez can contribute once he is eligible.  This leaves Rowdy to start at the 4 spot.
Title: Re: 10/29/11: Hillsdale Game Thread
Post by: dylanrocks on October 30, 2011, 04:21:02 PM
I just don't think that Ryan Broekhoff is as effective at the 4 in our league as he is at the 3.
Title: Re: 10/29/11: Hillsdale Game Thread
Post by: vu72 on October 30, 2011, 05:49:32 PM
Quote from: dylanrocks on October 30, 2011, 03:21:33 PM
Three guys didn't play? Not cleared yet?

No judgment. Just a statement.

You can't rely on Ryan Broekhoff and especially Kevin Van Wijk to get double-doubles against D-1 competition.

That's right. Fernandez and Jakolis have not been cleared to play although Vashil is practicing.  Boggs isn't eligible till second semester and it is looking more likely that he will redshirt to give him a full two years of play rather than a year and a half.
That leaves Capobianco who needs to sit out this year after transferring in from Indiana.  So actually there are four guys who practice (other than Jakolis at this point, who didn't or couldn't play last night.
Title: Re: 10/29/11: Hillsdale Game Thread
Post by: vu84v2 on October 30, 2011, 07:46:01 PM
So is there any expected timeframe for Fernandez to be eligible?  I am not saying he is going to make all of the different, but frankly without him there is only one guy that can play the 5.  This team will get pounded inside - very bleak outlook.
Title: Re: 10/29/11: Hillsdale Game Thread
Post by: chef on October 31, 2011, 11:02:20 AM
Broekhoff's most effective position in the HL is the four. The main reason why is he scores most of his baskets coming off screens, and it's much easier for a small player to chase around a screen than a big player. Additionally, most teams in the league play three guards. Ryan will get better looks when being guarded by a bigger, yet slower player. Also, on defense, Ryan is better guarding the bigs than he is guarding a smaller player that will take him off the dribble.
Title: Re: 10/29/11: Hillsdale Game Thread
Post by: wh on October 31, 2011, 06:43:11 PM
Two encouraging tidbits from the game that I don't recall anyone mentioning:

- Erik Buggs was 3-4 from the FT line.  His form was beautiful.  Limited arm motion, nice backspun, soft touch.  Someone has worked with him to completely recreate his shot.  Bear in mind that only one game last year did he shoot over 50% from the line.  Believe me when I say the hack-an-Eric days are over. 

- Will Bogan went 0-4 from the field - all 3's - but I can tell this kid is a shooter.  He has good form and isn't afraid to shoot.  Once he missed 4 he seemed to back off as most new players would, but it would not surprise me to see him avg. 7-10 ppg.  As others have mentioned we have to get points from that position, and I'm sure Bryce is counting on Will to fill that need.
Title: Re: 10/29/11: Hillsdale Game Thread
Post by: milanmiracle on November 01, 2011, 03:54:43 PM
Quote from: wh on October 31, 2011, 06:43:11 PM
Two encouraging tidbits from the game that I don't recall anyone mentioning:

- Erik Buggs was 3-4 from the FT line.  His form was beautiful.  Limited arm motion, nice backspun, soft touch.  Someone has worked with him to completely recreate his shot.  Bear in mind that only one game last year did he shoot over 50% from the line.  Believe me when I say the hack-an-Eric days are over.  - Will Bogan went 0-4 from the field - all 3's - but I can tell this kid is a shooter.  He has good form and isn't afraid to shoot.  Once he missed 4 he seemed to back off as most new players would, but it would not surprise me to see him avg. 7-10 ppg.  As others have mentioned we have to get points from that position, and I'm sure Bryce is counting on Will to fill that need.

That's a pretty bold statement after one game preseason game...
Title: Re: 10/29/11: Hillsdale Game Thread
Post by: wh on November 01, 2011, 05:52:45 PM
Quote from: milanmiracle on November 01, 2011, 03:54:43 PM
Quote from: wh on October 31, 2011, 06:43:11 PM
Two encouraging tidbits from the game that I don't recall anyone mentioning:

- Erik Buggs was 3-4 from the FT line.  His form was beautiful.  Limited arm motion, nice backspun, soft touch.  Someone has worked with him to completely recreate his shot.  Bear in mind that only one game last year did he shoot over 50% from the line.  Believe me when I say the hack-an-Eric days are over.  - Will Bogan went 0-4 from the field - all 3's - but I can tell this kid is a shooter.  He has good form and isn't afraid to shoot.  Once he missed 4 he seemed to back off as most new players would, but it would not surprise me to see him avg. 7-10 ppg.  As others have mentioned we have to get points from that position, and I'm sure Bryce is counting on Will to fill that need.

That's a pretty bold statement after one game preseason game...

If it's of any comfort MM, I'm usually right about things far more than I am wrong.   ;)

Title: Re: 10/29/11: Hillsdale Game Thread
Post by: valpopal on November 01, 2011, 06:15:36 PM
Quote from: milanmiracle on November 01, 2011, 03:54:43 PM
Quote from: wh on October 31, 2011, 06:43:11 PM
Two encouraging tidbits from the game that I don't recall anyone mentioning:

- Erik Buggs was 3-4 from the FT line.  His form was beautiful.  Limited arm motion, nice backspun, soft touch.  Someone has worked with him to completely recreate his shot.  Bear in mind that only one game last year did he shoot over 50% from the line.  Believe me when I say the hack-an-Eric days are over.   - Will Bogan went 0-4 from the field - all 3's - but I can tell this kid is a shooter.  He has good form and isn't afraid to shoot.  Once he missed 4 he seemed to back off as most new players would, but it would not surprise me to see him avg. 7-10 ppg.  As others have mentioned we have to get points from that position, and I'm sure Bryce is counting on Will to fill that need.

That's a pretty bold statement after one game preseason game...

Although I hedged with use of the word "possible," I made a similar note about observed improvement in my above commentary on the game: "also good was the possible evidence of improvement in Buggs' free throw shot." His free throws definitely looked more comfortable and more fluid than I remembered from last year.
Title: Re: 10/29/11: Hillsdale Game Thread
Post by: milanmiracle on November 02, 2011, 12:58:32 PM
Quote from: valpopal on November 01, 2011, 06:15:36 PM
Quote from: milanmiracle on November 01, 2011, 03:54:43 PM
Quote from: wh on October 31, 2011, 06:43:11 PM
Two encouraging tidbits from the game that I don't recall anyone mentioning:

- Erik Buggs was 3-4 from the FT line.  His form was beautiful.  Limited arm motion, nice backspun, soft touch.  Someone has worked with him to completely recreate his shot.  Bear in mind that only one game last year did he shoot over 50% from the line.  Believe me when I say the hack-an-Eric days are over.  - Will Bogan went 0-4 from the field - all 3's - but I can tell this kid is a shooter.  He has good form and isn't afraid to shoot.  Once he missed 4 he seemed to back off as most new players would, but it would not surprise me to see him avg. 7-10 ppg.  As others have mentioned we have to get points from that position, and I'm sure Bryce is counting on Will to fill that need.

That's a pretty bold statement after one game preseason game...

Although I hedged with use of the word "possible," I made a similar note about observed improvement in my above commentary on the game: "also good was the possible evidence of improvement in Buggs' free throw shot." His free throws definitely looked more comfortable and more fluid than I remembered from last year.

Well that's a pretty big improvement. Allowing Buggs to be on the floor in tight games will certainly help...
Title: Re: 10/29/11: Hillsdale Game Thread
Post by: vuweathernerd on November 02, 2011, 07:20:18 PM
Quote from: milanmiracle on November 02, 2011, 12:58:32 PM
Quote from: valpopal on November 01, 2011, 06:15:36 PM
Quote from: milanmiracle on November 01, 2011, 03:54:43 PM
Quote from: wh on October 31, 2011, 06:43:11 PM
Two encouraging tidbits from the game that I don't recall anyone mentioning:

- Erik Buggs was 3-4 from the FT line.  His form was beautiful.  Limited arm motion, nice backspun, soft touch.  Someone has worked with him to completely recreate his shot.  Bear in mind that only one game last year did he shoot over 50% from the line.  Believe me when I say the hack-an-Eric days are over.  - Will Bogan went 0-4 from the field - all 3's - but I can tell this kid is a shooter.  He has good form and isn't afraid to shoot.  Once he missed 4 he seemed to back off as most new players would, but it would not surprise me to see him avg. 7-10 ppg.  As others have mentioned we have to get points from that position, and I'm sure Bryce is counting on Will to fill that need.

That's a pretty bold statement after one game preseason game...

Although I hedged with use of the word "possible," I made a similar note about observed improvement in my above commentary on the game: "also good was the possible evidence of improvement in Buggs' free throw shot." His free throws definitely looked more comfortable and more fluid than I remembered from last year.

Well that's a pretty big improvement. Allowing Buggs to be on the floor in tight games will certainly help...

true story. should certainly help our season outlook if it's true.