The New Era begins... 9-4 entering conference play. All-Time against the Sycamores, Valpo is 31-50
The Sycamores have one more non-con game with Elon on Friday. They have an RPI of 220, with an SOS of 116, against D1 teams, they are 2-1 at home, 1-2 on the road and 0-3 Neutral site games. They are 0-4 against top 100 RPI, with obviously their top win being against Archie and the Gang 90-69 in the opener. Their worst loss is to #227 Ohio in 4-Overtimes. Like UCR, the Sycs beat Air Force.... playing in the MVC/MWC Challenge game.
## Player gp-gs min avg fg-fga fg% 3fg-fga 3fg% ft-fta ft% off def tot avg pf dq a to blk stl pts avg
02 Barnes, Jordan 11-11 372 33.8 55-126 . 4 3 7 45-88 . 5 1 1 32-38 . 8 4 2 3 36 39 3.5 28 2 45 31 1 9 187 17.0
04 Scott, Brenton 11-11 339 30.8 53-138 . 3 8 4 21-63 . 3 3 3 19-30 . 6 3 3 5 57 62 5.6 23 0 23 24 3 16 146 13.3
25 Davis, Qiydar 11-6 302 27.5 45-97 . 4 6 4 9-28 . 3 2 1 24-31 . 7 7 4 17 42 59 5.4 25 1 14 19 7 17 123 11.2
11 Key, Tyreke 11-5 308 28.0 34-87 . 3 9 1 8-30 . 2 6 7 27-38 . 7 1 1 4 35 39 3.5 24 1 16 26 2 14 103 9.4
34 Murphy, Brandon 11-10 201 18.3 25-41 . 6 1 0 0-0 . 0 0 0 30-43 . 6 9 8 20 20 40 3.6 23 1 8 15 7 8 80 7.3
35 Thomas, Devin 8-6 136 17.0 9-25 . 3 6 0 5-11 . 4 5 5 21-26 . 8 0 8 6 15 21 2.6 13 0 4 17 6 0 44 5.5
41 Rickman, Emondre 11-1 169 15.4 18-45 . 4 0 0 0-0 . 0 0 0 13-26 . 5 0 0 18 36 54 4.9 22 0 6 9 12 2 49 4.5
05 Kessinger, Bronson 11-5 185 16.8 14-29 . 4 8 3 3-10 . 3 0 0 3-6 . 5 0 0 12 17 29 2.6 20 0 9 8 5 5 34 3.1
13 Hughes, Clayton 11-0 128 11.6 11-20 . 5 5 0 5-11 . 4 5 5 6-6 1.000 1 6 7 0.6 22 1 4 12 3 7 33 3.0
01 Ojinnaka, Demonte 11-0 103 9.4 7-23 . 3 0 4 5-15 . 3 3 3 0-0 . 0 0 0 0 6 6 0.5 14 0 4 5 0 1 19 1.7
20 Huenermann, Daniel 5-0 8 1.6 1-3 . 3 3 3 0-1 . 0 0 0 2-4 . 5 0 0 1 1 2 0.4 1 0 0 0 0 0 4 0.8
03 Knight III, Trey 8-0 48 6.0 1-2 . 5 0 0 0-0 . 0 0 0 4-7 . 5 7 1 1 3 4 0.5 6 0 1 5 1 1 6 0.8
24 Deady, Matt 6-0 20 3.3 1-3 . 3 3 3 0-1 . 0 0 0 1-3 . 3 3 3 2 4 6 1.0 3 0 0 1 0 0 3 0.5
10 Claycomb, Ethan 3-0 6 2.0 0-1 . 0 0 0 0-1 . 0 0 0 0-0 . 0 0 0 0 1 1 0.3 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0.0
Team 17 18 35 6
Total.......... 11 2325 274-640 . 4 2 8 101-259 . 3 9 0 182-258 . 7 0 5 107 297 404 36.7 225 6 134 178 47 80 831 75.5
Opponents...... 11 2325 277-641 . 4 3 2 72-224 . 3 2 1 197-269 . 7 3 2 104 299 403 36.6 230 5 137 165 42 74 823 74.8
Cavernous Hulman Center (Capacity 10,200) has not seen big turnouts...
Missouri St.Louis 2,612
Ball State 3,274
Air Force 3,797
Indianapolis 3,491
Green Bay 2,924
This is Game #14. We've won the last 3 times, losing at Central Florida. Overall, we are 19-12 in the past 31 seasons in Games #14 of the season.
The inaugural MVC season is here. The slate is clean. The new year begins now!
Valpo 70
Ind St. 68
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Call me negative if you want. This is going to be a loss and we're in for a very long season.
I predict a win every game so I'm not stopping now. 67-65 win.
Indiana State 75
Valpo 61
Real Time RPI predicts Valpo 82-72
Warren Nolan RPI predicts Valpo 72-71; the ELO prediction has Valpo 76-66, Valpo with a 97% chance of winning
and I feel I have to point out that Valpo has NEVER lost a Missouri Valley Conference Men's Basketball game.
Quote from: talksalot on December 21, 2017, 01:01:05 PM
Real Time RPI predicts Valpo 82-72
Warren Nolan RPI predicts Valpo 72-71; the ELO prediction has Valpo 76-66, Valpo with a 97% chance of winning
and I feel I have to point out that Valpo has NEVER lost a Missouri Valley Conference Men's Basketball game.
Those predictions were probably made not knowing Valpo's injury/sickness/suspension situations.
I predict another low double-digit loss.
This team really could have used David Skara and Lexus Williams.
Quote from: Valpo89 on December 21, 2017, 03:19:49 PM
Quote from: talksalot on December 21, 2017, 01:01:05 PM
Real Time RPI predicts Valpo 82-72
Warren Nolan RPI predicts Valpo 72-71; the ELO prediction has Valpo 76-66, Valpo with a 97% chance of winning
and I feel I have to point out that Valpo has NEVER lost a Missouri Valley Conference Men's Basketball game.
Those predictions were probably made not knowing Valpo's injury/sickness/suspension situations.
I predict another low double-digit loss.
This team really could have used David Skara and Lexus Williams.
Mehhh, I disagree. Lexus is not a shooter like is needed. Skara was a great hustle player. But he wasn't given the chance to create on a regular basis. I'm ok with development of this team. Only feel bad that a .500 season is upon us.
Quote from: valpotx on December 21, 2017, 12:36:57 PM
Indiana State 75
Valpo 61
It will be worse than Riverside, Joe is gone for good, first game back for Tevonn who will be weak and this will be a tougher opponent than Riverside. Bradford will keep throwing up three point air balls whether he ever makes one or not. He might even go 0 for 15 from three.
Valpo 49
Indiana State 84
Sorry, but the truth is the truth. It's where this season has gone this holiday time. Once Tevonn gets stronger things will get better.
Quote from: bbtds on December 25, 2017, 01:09:23 PM
Quote from: valpotx on December 21, 2017, 12:36:57 PM
Indiana State 75
Valpo 61
It will be worse than Riverside, Joe is gone for good, first game back for Tevonn who will be weak and this will be a tougher opponent than Riverside. Bradford will keep throwing up three point air balls whether he ever makes one or not. He might even go 0 for 15 from three.
Valpo 49
Indiana State 84
Sorry, but the truth is the truth. It's where this season has gone this holiday time. Once Tevonn gets stronger things will get better.
Is this official?
Geez BB, I'm as pessimistic as anyone with Joe out and T Walk potentially less than 100%, but let's get off the ledge man.
don't jump...please don't jump, at least not yet!
Quote from: wh on December 25, 2017, 02:17:24 PM
Quote from: bbtds on December 25, 2017, 01:09:23 PM
Quote from: valpotx on December 21, 2017, 12:36:57 PM
Indiana State 75
Valpo 61
It will be worse than Riverside, Joe is gone for good, first game back for Tevonn who will be weak and this will be a tougher opponent than Riverside. Bradford will keep throwing up three point air balls whether he ever makes one or not. He might even go 0 for 15 from three.
Valpo 49
Indiana State 84
Sorry, but the truth is the truth. It's where this season has gone this holiday time. Once Tevonn gets stronger things will get better.
Is this official?
No. Just that a guy doesn't leave his team even if he is suspended. My personal opinion is that Joe Burton won't be back as a Valparaiso University student/athlete.
Things will get better but VU fans will have to endure until the remaining team proves they can act like a team which will probably coincide with the time that Tevonn feels stronger and can play closer to his real potential.
Quote from: bbtds on December 26, 2017, 11:01:36 AM
Quote from: wh on December 25, 2017, 02:17:24 PM
Quote from: bbtds on December 25, 2017, 01:09:23 PM
Quote from: valpotx on December 21, 2017, 12:36:57 PM
Indiana State 75
Valpo 61
It will be worse than Riverside, Joe is gone for good, first game back for Tevonn who will be weak and this will be a tougher opponent than Riverside. Bradford will keep throwing up three point air balls whether he ever makes one or not. He might even go 0 for 15 from three.
Valpo 49
Indiana State 84
Sorry, but the truth is the truth. It's where this season has gone this holiday time. Once Tevonn gets stronger things will get better.
Is this official?
No. Just that a guy doesn't leave his team even if he is suspended. My personal opinion is that Joe Burton won't be back as a Valparaiso University student/athlete.
Things will get better but VU fans will have to endure until the remaining team proves they can act like a team which will probably coincide with the time that Tevonn feels stronger and can play closer to his real potential.
A couple of posts by people (AGibson maybe?) who know a lot more about Valpo's grading system than I do had me thinking there might be still be hope, but you're probably right. I'd still be interested in knowing for certain.
Could this be the trigger to cause Matt to whittling down his playing the entire team to a more manageable to 5-8 guys to get some stability in the lineup?
Valpo wins 72-67
Quote from: valpo64 on December 26, 2017, 02:14:17 PM
Could this be the trigger to cause Matt to whittling down his playing the entire team to a more manageable to 5-8 guys to get some stability in the lineup?
It seems like Coach Lottich has been trimming minutes down and relying on bigger minutes from guys he can trust. Bakari's minutes have went up and Max Joseph played huge minutes in the UC-Riverside game.
I think as long as the games aren't blow outs we'll see him rely heavily on whoever he thinks won't be a liability out there.
https://twitter.com/MichaelOsipoff/status/945834463736614913
https://twitter.com/MichaelOsipoff/status/945830250356920320
https://twitter.com/MichaelOsipoff/status/945831059459117057
https://twitter.com/MichaelOsipoff/status/945831278062039040
https://twitter.com/MichaelOsipoff/status/945831695101591552
https://twitter.com/MichaelOsipoff/status/945832655442141184
https://twitter.com/MichaelOsipoff/status/945832808068591617
Over Valpo's 10 years in the HL, we had a near-perfect conference road record in games I attended. I will be in Terre Haute Thursday evening and expect to be basking in the afterglow of victory on the way home.
Quote from: wh on December 26, 2017, 08:52:26 PM
Over Valpo's 10 years in the HL, we had a near-perfect conference road record in games I attended. I will be in Terre Haute Thursday evening and expect to be basking in the afterglow of victory on the way home.
You could go to St-Mary-of-the-Woods and ask Saint Theodora and Mother Theodore Guerin for a miracle but I truly feel that is the only way Valpo wins in Terre Haute on Thursday.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Th%C3%A9odore_Gu%C3%A9rin
She is also the namesake of Guerin Catholic High School in Noblesville which is a growing catholic high school in central Indiana.
https://www.google.com/search?q=Guerin+Catholic+HS&enablesearch=true
Guerin Catholic, Bishop Chatard, Brebeuf Jesuit and Bishop Roncalli have created the Circle City Conference where the 4 catholic high schools can compete against each other and not worry about being moved up in class by the IHSAA. Indy Cathedral though still feel they are above these other catholic schools in Indy and remains independent.
Mother Guerin's second miracle which led to her sainthood:
The second of the miracles attributed to her involves Phil McCord of Terre Haute, Indiana, and occurred in January 2001.[11] McCord, who had worked in facilities management for the Sisters of Providence, stopped by the Church of the Immaculate Conception on the grounds and was drawn in by music from the pipe organ there. While in the church he felt compelled to pray to Guérin, asking for strength to undergo a medical operation for his failing eyesight, as his eyes had deteriorated to legally blind status: 20-800 in one eye and 20-1000 in the other. After praying, he went home. When he awoke the next morning, his vision had returned to 20-20, and his eye now needed only laser treatment to remove old tissue.[11]It was in January of 2001 that after moving to Indy in 2000 I visited Terre Haute (an hour west of Indy) and felt I was accepted finally by fellow employees during a team building trip. No, I never prayed to Mother Guerin for courage but it does seem somewhat coincidental that these events happened at the same time in the same place.
Could also be that one of the Oklahoma City bombers was executed in Terre Haute in 1999, Timothy McVeigh.
I believe that Paul Oren mentioned that Joe Burton was set to return to Texas for a few days, regardless of the suspension. I wouldn't look as negatively at that part of the situation, as he was just heading home for the holidays, just like most students.
Quote from: valpotx on December 27, 2017, 01:20:11 AM
I believe that Paul Oren mentioned that Joe Burton was set to return to Texas for a few days, regardless of the suspension. I wouldn't look as negatively at that part of the situation, as he was just heading home for the holidays, just like most students.
Also, consider the team couldn't carry any costs for a suspended athlete on a road trip (I assume). Coach probably had an edict in the rules/logic telling him to get the athlete to VU or home directly upon learning of his/her suspension.
Wouldn't make sense to have him travel with the team. Though guessing (at most) it would've meant 1-more night of lodging or food at that point.
Just some thoughts...
https://twitter.com/NWINews/status/946139495350534149
Canada spry: Tevonn Walker healthy again as Valparaiso opens league play
Michael Osipoff
Post-Tribune
Dec 27, 2017
Tevonn Walker went home to Montreal for Christmas.
He cherished the quality time he spent with his family. But Valparaiso's senior guard also made time for other activities.
"I got on the bike and got up a lot of shots," Walker said.
Walker returned to practice Tuesday with the Crusaders. And barring any unforeseen setbacks, their leading scorer and rebounder is expected to play Thursday night at Indiana State in their Missouri Valley debut after he missed the last four games with mononucleosis. The 6 p.m. game is scheduled to be televised on NBC Sports Chicago.
"I'm doing well, feeling great," Walker said. "I'm ready.
........ http://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/post-tribune/sports/ct-ptb-mens-basketball-valparaiso-tevonn-walker-st-1228-20171227-story.html
https://twitter.com/ValpoBasketball/status/946174488198176768
The Valpo Basketball Managers beat the Indiana State managers in a pick up game tonight.
https://twitter.com/ValpoMbb/status/946240781299470337
I'm seeing a lot of betting lines with Valpo as a +1 or +1.5
Another game that I have no clue on how it will turn out. A lot of question marks in this game. I want Valpo to pull off the W but I really hope we don't get embarrassed in our first ever Valley Conference game.
Is ESPN3 not an option this evening since local networks picked it up? I'm not in market
Quote from: hailcrusaders on December 28, 2017, 03:07:58 PM
Is ESPN3 not an option this evening since local networks picked it up? I'm not in market
It looks like it's going to be broadcast on ESPN3 if you're out of market but if you're watching from IL, IN, IA, or MO you'll have to watch on NBC Sports Chicago; FOX Sports Midwest/Indiana/Kansas City (Cable).
https://twitter.com/valpoathletics/status/946487886106546182
Quote from: VU2014 on December 28, 2017, 02:18:13 PM
I'm seeing a lot of betting lines with Valpo as a +1 or +1.5
Another game that I have no clue on how it will turn out. A lot of question marks in this game. I want Valpo to pull off the W but I really hope we don't get embarrassed in our first ever Valley Conference game.
Really other than the Northwestern and Purdue games, Valpo's done fine on the road.
Tonight is really going to be about who can score on who, as both offenses are bad, but Valpo's defense is significantly better than Indiana State's. As long as Indiana State doesn't get comfortable from the perimeter, Valpo should be in decent shape. On offense, Valpo should be able to exploit Indiana State's propensity to foul.
Since Tevonn is back, I am amending my prediction to a W:
Valpo 71
Indiana State 66
https://twitter.com/NWIOren/status/946417396046286849
Crusaders set to begin Valley play
Paul Oren Times Correspondent 11 hrs ago
Valparaiso begins its first season in the Missouri Valley Conference tonight with more questions than answers.
Will Tevonn Walker be able to return to full strength after missing four games due to mono? Has Joe Burton played his last basketball game in a Valparaiso uniform, and if so, who replaces his production? Did any of the Crusaders find a few more made 3-pointers and a few less turnovers under the Christmas tree earlier this week?
The Crusaders will take their first step toward answering those questions when Valley begins tonight at Indiana State in the first of 18 conference games that will culminate with Arch Madness in St. Louis in just over two months.
.......... http://www.nwitimes.com/sports/college/valparaiso-university/nwiu-notes-crusaders-set-to-begin-valley-play/article_92e5973c-f859-588c-8bff-c3ba4ec49b70.html
ISU seeks cure to consistency issues as conference play begins
Valparaiso visits in its first MVC contest
By Todd Aaron Golden Tribune-Star Dec 27, 2017
Indiana State's second season is about to begin in men's basketball — the Missouri Valley Conference campaign kicks off with a 7 p.m. home game against MVC newcomers Valparaiso tonight.
The Sycamores are hoping to write a different chapter than they did in their first part of the season where inconsistency on both ends of the floor led ISU to 5-7 nonconference record, including just three wins against Division I competition.
ISU would display its inconsistency often in the course of the same game. That was evident in ISU's last game against Elon last Friday. ISU fell behind by 17, rallied to take a three-point lead in the second half, only to fall 73-68 when its defense — which helped it get back in the game in the first place — completely fell apart.
"I feel like everybody's ready for a fresh start. We've had a couple good days of practice. It's a chance for everybody to get on the same page," ISU swingman Qiydar Davis said. "Communication is our biggest thing and it's what we've been focused on in practice."
............ http://www.tribstar.com/sports/local_college_sports/isu_sports/isu-seeks-cure-to-consistency-issues-as-conference-play-begins/article_72020ff3-8648-5579-a11e-e807bd831283.html
Let's talk strategy. Specifically what we need to change from last game. And be we I mean us fans.
I think I'm going to start drinking before tip off, that way if this game starts off like the last one, I'll care a lot less, most likely cracking jokes about Lottichs Sexiest Mid Major Coaches award. Problem with last game was that by the time we realized it was going to be "one of those games", it was too late to start drinking and expect to get any kind of restful sleep.
So that's the game plan. Let's do our dry campus proud! Beer on 3!
1...2...3.....Beer!
(Full disclosure: I may have started already.)
No Joe and Parker is back in the starting lineup.
https://twitter.com/valpoathletics/status/946518734562316289
Hazen starting because why not start incredibly slow on offense again?
Quote from: a3uge on December 28, 2017, 06:10:48 PM
Hazen starting because why not start incredibly slow on offense again?
My guess is they want a little more size out there. Kiser really isn't a PF.
Quote from: VU2014 on December 28, 2017, 06:13:18 PM
Quote from: a3uge on December 28, 2017, 06:10:48 PM
Hazen starting because why not start incredibly slow on offense again?
My guess is they want a little more size out there. Kiser really isn't a PF.
It didn't work, again. Groundhog's day with him. I'll sacrifice some size for someone who isn't a massive black hole on offense.
I am SO tired of Smits complaining after EVERY single flipping call.
The offense is off to another rough start... ISU is up 7-2. ISU's defense forced VU's first 2 possessions into terrible shots at the end of the shot clock. But ISU's defense is intense
This team clearly misses any sort of deadeye shooting threat from 3.
The reffing doesn't seem any better in the MVC than the Horizon. The call on Smits and then the charge on golder were horrific calls.
Quote from: NativeCheesehead on December 28, 2017, 06:19:38 PM
I am SO tired of Smits complaining after EVERY single flipping call.
He had good reason to complain on those first two!
Quote from: NativeCheesehead on December 28, 2017, 06:19:38 PM
I am SO tired of Smits complaining after EVERY single flipping call.
That last call was bad on Smits.
Ugly so far. Way too many turnovers still. This could get very ugly.
Can someone tell Bradford not to toss up 3s five ft behind the 3 point line.
With the head of officiating there tonight, expect a brutally tight game. He was at the Butler-Princeton game earlier in the year, and combined the teams shot 45 free throws, and the game took at least an extra 1/2 hour.
This Valpo offense is completely inept at times. >:(
Stop dribbling and standing around!!! Get some movement going!!! Good Lord. This team doesn't have a stellar iso player like last year with Peters, where you can pull that crap. It doesn't even have a Shane Hammink type player that can be relied upon at times. Tevonn is coming off mono and doesn't look fresh.
A team playing as poorly as we have doesn't have any right to complain about officiating.
Any movement off of the ball would be greatly appreciated >:(
Bringing Valpo basketball to a new low. This team sucks. Embarrassing.
In all seriousness though, every game this continues it is less on the players and more on the coaching staff. We set almost no screens on offense. When you are being guarded 35 feet from the basket you have to set screens to free up the guards.
Half court offense for valpo is absent to say the least.
That's on coach
This is looking like the debacle against Milwaukee last year in the HLT
Quote from: mvandersee on December 28, 2017, 06:31:01 PM
Any movement off of the ball would be greatly appreciated >:(
Seriously. What have the guys been practicing since the UC Riverside game 8-9 days ago?
I get this isn't the most offensively gift team on earth (especially without Joe & a not 100% Tevonn) but seriously the least they could do is get offensive movement going. At least do some high ball screens or something.
On pace for 25 turnovers. That's insane and usually a prelude to a blowout. The issue is so many unforced. Down 9 with 3:36 left in half number 1...focus and come out firing in the second.
And just like that up by 2 in a 2 minute span.
Give every single minute of Hazen's to Linssen.
Dead cat bounce or back from the dead?
How is it even possible that Valpo is up at the half!? I noticed that Marty came out and immediately started setting screens. Positive developments followed.
Quote from: VU2014 on December 28, 2017, 06:26:28 PM
Quote from: NativeCheesehead on December 28, 2017, 06:19:38 PM
I am SO tired of Smits complaining after EVERY single flipping call.
That last call was bad on Smits.
BOTH calls were terrible on Smits.
it's a Christmas miracle we aren't getting blown out with all those turnovers
Quote from: Just Sayin on December 28, 2017, 06:34:09 PM
Bringing Valpo basketball to a new low. This team sucks. Embarrassing.
[/b]
Just guessing this was written when it was 16-4. Maybe a different opinion now?? We and they are both playing intense defense. As mentioned before, the official are calling this very tight and I suspect there were some makeup calls for us late in the half. Interestingly enough, our run to take the lead was with Tevonn on the bench. Ex the one bad pass, I really like was Linssen brings to the floor.
I'm not kidding or joking here.
I went away from the TV when the game was 16-4 to vent some frustration and did some online banking and when I came back the game had completely changed and Valpo had tied it with less than 3 minutes to go in the half.
Your welcome!
Do I need to stay away longer? ;)
B. Evelyn can't miss and that's what's keeping us in this game!
Just goes to show you that ten minutes of bad play don't need to define the season!
Valpo starting the second half with Hazen... Three turnovers and a wasted timeout in the first 6 possessions.
Airballs a wide open three before coming out. He's killing this team.
Quote from: a3uge on December 28, 2017, 07:22:07 PM
Valpo starting the second half with Hazen... Three turnovers and a wasted timeout in the first 6 possessions.
After the air ball Hazen should have come out.
Had there been a position group more disappointing than these bigs in recent memory? Marty shows some hustle but is still so raw. Virtually nothing from Smits, Sorolla, McMillian.
Quote from: NativeCheesehead on December 28, 2017, 07:29:27 PM
Had there been a position group more disappointing than these bigs in recent memory? Marty shows some hustle but is still so raw. Virtually nothing from Smits, Sorolla, McMillian.
The plus minus of Smits / Sorrola has to be horrible. Still no Linssen in the second half. Baffling.
Linssen comes back in and Valpo ties it!
We are in for a long conference season if we don't get it together quickly.
Note to self: Early drinking doesn't work. Still completely pissed off.
Another bad showing and loss, but at least they showed up with some heart this time in fighting back a few times. However, if 3/4 of our possessions begin with 20 seconds on the clock as we finally cross half court, we are not going to be successful. Even when we started to make some shots and they pressed less, we still took our time crossing half court. Teams have figured out that they just have to pressure us on every pass at the top of the key, and we will either cough it up, or throw a really dumb pass. It still mystifies me how often we have a 'fast break' where it is 1 on 3, and we just expect to get bailed out by the refs with a foul call. Smits needs to be setup better, in order to have any offensive game. If he has to dribble, we are screwed, as a defender can easily poke their hand in while the ball tries to make its way back up to how high he dribbles. Martin needs to play more, plain and simple. He may foul out, but the dude has a motor, and has the most grit on this team. He reminds me of a young KVW.
Let's build on that second half going forward. The offense finally looked like it was figuring some things out. Need to cut down on turnovers still and the unforced mental errors but there's a lot of positives going forward. Guard play and overall offensive flow was better. Linssen looks like the best of the new PFs. I'd like to see his minutes increase if he can stay out of foul trouble. Same with McMillan. Smits needs to bulk up. Hopefully we'll see improvement from Hazen soon. I'm starting to feel really bad for him. We look like a play-in team for the MVC Tournament this year.
Any hope I held that Valpo would have a respectable opening season in the Missouri Valley has evaporated. This team has gone from an energetic and athletic group that could be a surprise competitor for the top three spots in the conference to a mediocre and uninspired squad that will likely languish in the bottom half of the standings. I at least expected a team that would be fun to watch all season, but even that seems to have quickly slipped away in December. I hate to admit it, but with the loss of Burton and the lack of development by other players, I already have doubts about next year as well.
Quote from: VUGrad1314 on December 28, 2017, 08:32:33 PM
Let's build on that second half going forward. The offense finally looked like it was figuring some things out. Need to cut down on turnovers still and the unforced mental errors but there's a lot of positives going forward. Guard play and overall offensive flow was better. Linssen looks like the best of the new PFs. I'd like to see his minutes increase if he can stay out of foul trouble. Same with McMillan. Smits needs to bulk up. Hopefully we'll see improvement from Hazen soon. I'm starting to feel really bad for him. We look like a play-in team for the MVC Tournament this year.
BINGO, I agree with you whole heartedly. For those who thought 8-0 meant immediate Top-of-League placement, I don't feel bad for your hurt feelings.
Please keep the strong support, but relax on the depressed school girl posts.
As coach L pointed out at half-time and every other time he's had a mic in front of his face, this is a VERY young team. Expecting them to win on the road in their very first game in a top 10 conference is a bit much. They competed at times ... I think the consistency will come with experience.
I'm disappointed that Micah is still in a slump ... I was hoping that we'd see some improvement after he was able to get home for a few days and get some workouts in with his dad.
On a positive note, I think Valpo has the most extensive array of leggings, arm sleeves, headbands, knee sleeves and wristbands of any team I've seen this year. Kudos to the equipment team!
Quote from: FieldGoodie05 on December 28, 2017, 08:38:57 PM
Please keep the strong support, but relax on the depressed school girl posts.
If you want to call this one of the "depressed school girl posts," okay. However, we had two starters (Hazen and Golder) whose combined stats showed 0 points and 0 rebounds but 4 turnovers. Our two bigs (Sorolla and Smits) combined for only 2 points and 3 rebounds but with another 4 turnovers. Despite having two 7-footers, the team was out-rebounded and Indiana State had more second-chance points. In fact, the total of turnovers (22) almost matched the total of rebounds (25). One of our most energetic players (Kiser) suffered an injury. The team free throw percentage was 58%. Other than Evelyn, the rest of the team was 3-19 on three-point shots (15.8%). This comes after a 12.5% three-point performance in the horrendous showing against Riverside. I have always been a strong supporter, but I'd say those are legitimately depressing details.
Smits, Sorolla and Hazen had 2 points and 3 rebounds. I don't like to get negative about our players, but these three guys need to step it up. Why not start Linnsen and McMillan? Our lack of production in the first ten minutes of each half is telling. This is going to be a long season if we continue to let the shot clock whittle down to nothing before turning the ball over.
I think we, as fans, have a duty this Sunday afternoon. We need to make certain that we're out in full force and full throat. Yes, we're disappointed, frustrated, and maybe some of us are a little embarrassed, but if the second half of tonight's game is any indication, this young team may be on the verge of finally turning the corner and figuring things out. Even if it isn't, these guys have experienced about as much adversity on this road trip as you can possibly throw at a team:
The team leader got sick for most of the trip
They suffered a truly heartbreaking loss in a key in-state road game
They got shellacked by 30+ points in prime time on big TV networks while national pundits tried to pump them up beforehand adding even more pressure
A player they were really counting on to support Tevonn offensively got kicked off the team which upset some of the players
Which led to one of the most embarrassing losses in program history
Their leading glue guy and a key defensive presence suffered an injury that looks like he'll be missing some potentially significant time
They ran into a more experienced team eager to save its season in a high pressure game for both sides
Now they're coming home for the first time in a month shorthanded dejected and downtrodden and are about to take on a conference frontrunner in the first MVC home game at the ARC. If any team needs a boost from its fans and to know we're behind them, it's this team. I firmly believe that we fans can have a great deal of influence over how this season unfolds. Let's show the MVC the kind of environment they can expect to step into . Let's show them that they are right to praise the passion of this fanbase. Let's treat this like the biggest home game in a long time (because it is). Let's pack the ARC for our Crusaders!
Quote from: VUGrad1314 on December 28, 2017, 09:18:24 PM
if the second half of tonight's game is any indication, this young team may be on the verge of finally turning the corner and figuring things out
You have mentioned the second half in two posts as though we should be encouraged by what happened in that period. However, the box score shows Valpo losing the second half by 12 points. ???
I was only watching from home but from those who were there who was getting into it with the other team? A lot of times you can't see those exchanges on camera. I'm guessing Golder. Markus can get chippy at times, which I personally love but he needs to pick his spot at times. He's going to be one of those guys that you hate if he's on the other team but love if he's on your team. He needs to real it in sometimes. I thought I saw Coach Dildy get on him for that during the game but it might have been for something else.
I've notice Max kind of cool guys down while he's out there, after a play/call doesn't go our way (which there were quite a few tonight).
https://twitter.com/NWIOren/status/946565513987182592
ISU shot much better in the second half, Scott and Barnes went nuts, and they got some extra points from the line during desperation time. But if you don't think that's the best most consistent offensive showing Valpo has had in a long time, I would say you were wrong. I've watched a lot of VU basketball this year and man has it been frustrating on the offensive end, but the second half was the first time I saw coherence on that end in a long time. Personally, I found that encouraging, despite the result of the game.
Why do we insist on doubling on dribble penetration and over again, leaving shooters wide open on the perimeter? That killed us tonight. It's an insane strategy in college basketball with the short 3-point line. It's particularly nuts in a league full of good three-point shooters like the Valley. Unless it's Robert Parrish or Joakim Noah standing out there, stay with the shooters!
A hearty second on the frustration of watching us just throw it around the outside for 20 seconds every possession before trying to find a shot. Also, quit missing FTs!
On the bright side, Tevonn is a warrior, and Max looked like himself tonight (and both got victimized by some very strange calls otherwise their nights would have been even better). Also, Bakari had a great game but these guys could not overcome the lack of anything offensively or defensively on the interior.
Hopefully getting back home helps us right the ship.
Quote from: VUGrad1314 on December 28, 2017, 10:05:28 PM
if you don't think that's the best most consistent offensive showing Valpo has had in a long time, I would say you were wrong. I've watched a lot of VU basketball this year and man has it been frustrating on the offensive end, but the second half was the first time I saw coherence on that end in a long time.
Wrong? I would say you and I were watching completely different games. In the first half Valpo shot 58% (11-19); in the second half they shot 41% (12-29). The split on 3-point shots: first half 4-9 (44%); second half 4-16 (25%). Free throws: first half 4-6 (67%); second half 6-11 (55%). I thought Valpo looked awful in the second half and blew the halftime lead.
Quote from: valpopal on December 28, 2017, 10:53:51 PMQuote from: VUGrad1314 on December 28, 2017, 10:05:28 PMif you don't think that's the best most consistent offensive showing Valpo has had in a long time, I would say you were wrong. I've watched a lot of VU basketball this year and man has it been frustrating on the offensive end, but the second half was the first time I saw coherence on that end in a long time.
Wrong? I would say you and I were watching completely different games. In the first half Valpo shot 58% (11-19); in the second half they shot 41% (12-29). The split on 3-point shots: first half 4-9 (44%); second half 4-16 (25%). Free throws: first half 4-6 (67%); second half 6-11 (55%). I thought Valpo looked awful in the second half and blew the halftime lead.
It was hard to tell amid the team slinging more turnovers than Chuck's Rise and Roll and Arby's combined that they shot that well. They had fewer turnovers as the game wore on and that's what I'm pointing to. They also got some good looks that didn't fall. The numbers may not have shown it but the offense flowed better in the second half. That's what I'm encouraged by.
Yeah, I don't get why we continue to double the high post. It worked last year when Alec was the guy to come over, or to help Alec defend. It has failed miserably this year. The times it has worked this year is when we double the LOW post. The high post double has just led to wide open 3's, and we are getting killed each time that we try it. At least we didn't try the 1-3-1 again...
I haven't watched a game since the Ball state game, but it sounds like we are still running the same tired half court offense. I do t get it. A team full of athletes is running a half court scheme that doesn't let them be athletic. I'd like to see a new offense take your lumps learning it if we have to (it's not like we are winning anyways) that allows for some creativity and let's these guys be athletes and play more freely. Dribbles ha doffs, ball screens, back cuts...this shouldn't be that hard!
Lindssen is a willing screener. I wish that would rub off on others. Saw some handoffs too. Not many back cuts though. Should we try a higher tempo setup?
By my count we scored only 2 points in the half court from our 4 position, and with Joe gone our 3 point shooting from the corners isn't good enough to warrant any defensive special attention. So the defense sags in on Jay and Derrik when we throw it in to the post leaving them limited opportunities. Its a vicious circle. We need better outside shooting to open the middle and better middle play to open the perimeter.
I'm not sure how we solve this. ??? This team is just too inexperienced to win many games with at most only 3 semi-reliable 3 point shooters on the floor at any time.
Quote from: VUGrad1314 on December 28, 2017, 11:09:23 PM
Quote from: valpopal on December 28, 2017, 10:53:51 PMQuote from: VUGrad1314 on December 28, 2017, 10:05:28 PMif you don't think that's the best most consistent offensive showing Valpo has had in a long time, I would say you were wrong. I've watched a lot of VU basketball this year and man has it been frustrating on the offensive end, but the second half was the first time I saw coherence on that end in a long time.
Wrong? I would say you and I were watching completely different games. In the first half Valpo shot 58% (11-19); in the second half they shot 41% (12-29). The split on 3-point shots: first half 4-9 (44%); second half 4-16 (25%). Free throws: first half 4-6 (67%); second half 6-11 (55%). I thought Valpo looked awful in the second half and blew the halftime lead.
It was hard to tell amid the team slinging more turnovers than Chuck's Rise and Roll and Arby's combined that they shot that well. They had fewer turnovers as the game wore on and that's what I'm pointing to. They also got some good looks that didn't fall. The numbers may not have shown it but the offense flowed better in the second half. That's what I'm encouraged by.
I guess 9 turnovers in the second half is better than the 13 in the first half, but 9 turnovers in a half is still terrible rather than encouraging. In fact, 9 turnovers in a half would mean 18 in a whole game, and 18 is the number of turnovers in the last game against Riverside, which was perhaps the worst I have ever seen by a Valpo team against a weak opponent. In addition, there were only 2 assists in the whole second half compared to six assists in the first half, so no better flow indicated by that stat.
They only had 14 in the last 30 minutes of the game. It is sad that I am pointing to this as a sign of progress and hope to inspire confidence with the season half over but at this point I'm looking to anything I can.
We definitely need to push the tempo more. Our offense was a lot more dangerous last night when we did that. Getting out in transition (and forcing the issue to do that more) is going to allow us to play to our strengths. The drawback to that system is that going at a higher tempo can lead to some unforced turnovers, but since we're already turning it over plenty in a stagnant half-court set, there's not much to lose here. I'd rather lose being aggressive than being passive.
Some Number Crunching:
Jay,Derrick, Hazen, Mac, and Marty:
Combined
MPG: 63.2
PPG: 19.1
RPG: 12.3
Total TOs: 88 (~40% of team total)
These numbers are truly awful, even more so when you consider more than half of our games have been against pretty poor competition.
Hazen and Derrick need their minutes cut immediately. Hazen, who despite these stats I still like long term, is giving you nothing on the floor right now. No points, rebounds or decent defense.
Derrick i'm ready to give up on. He is no better now than when he first set foot on campus. His 32 TOs are second on the team only to Evelyn. I really like Derrick as a kid, but I don't see him as a major contributor going forward.
One thing we have to remember is this year is still a transitional year. Sure, we should still want to win every game, but with the conference change, huge turnover in team contributors, and all the adversity this team has had to deal with, I'm less interested in who is going to help this team win for the next 15 games and more interested in who will help win the next 50.
Quote from: NativeCheesehead on December 29, 2017, 09:14:32 AM
Some Number Crunching:
Jay,Derrick, Hazen, Mac, and Marty:
Combined
MPG: 63.2
PPG: 19.1
RPG: 12.3
Total TOs: 88 (~40% of team total)
These numbers are truly awful, even more so when you consider more than half of our games have been against pretty poor competition.
Hazen and Derrick need their minutes cut immediately. Hazen, who despite these stats I still like long term, is giving you nothing on the floor right now. No points, rebounds or decent defense.
Derrick i'm ready to give up on. He is no better now than when he first set foot on campus. His 32 TOs are second on the team only to Evelyn. I really like Derrick as a kid, but I don't see him as a major contributor going forward.
One thing we have to remember is this year is still a transitional year. Sure, we should still want to win every game, but with the conference change, huge turnover in team contributors, and all the adversity this team has had to deal with, I'm less interested in who is going to help this team win for the next 15 games and more interested in who will help win the next 50.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uOv7FLd9WvE
Someone at the Indy Star clearly isn't a fan of Valparaiso.
https://twitter.com/IndyStarSports/status/946752667715432448
Doyel wrote a pretty good article about the ISU vs VU game last night. I feel like every time he writes about about Valpo Basketball it's always a loss or about a disappointing performance for the Indy Star.
In thinking about the offensive weaknesses, concur with the observations that we do not seem to be running as much motion as last year, plus when have we run backdoor like last year? How about "Carolina" which is back picks to alley oops on baseline? We are throwing the ball around the perimeter because teams are taking away the post pass which sets up this offense. Smits has lade some good passes out of the double when he does see the ball. Sorolla is very ineffective if he doesn't get the ball, and he needed to bulk up and didn't and so he's being shoved around by bigger, stronger 4s and 5s in this conference and B1Gs. Do not give up on Smits. He needs to slow his mind down as he is doing things too quickly. Both Cs are still sophs. And, the reffing calls on Smits are sometimes just incomprehensible. But, don't forget the road is not a pretty place. Also, remember Vashil as a soph? I am more concerned with the disappearance of Golder who looks like he lost his puppy, and what I have said for awhile, this is not a good shooting team. So, others are packing it in and will continue to. Defence and effort have generally been there. What was noticeable last night about the MVC is that the intensity level on D is ramped up, Guards are really good and power Cs and Fs are powerful and not what we saw in Horizon. As someone said we have moved up the rung in level of play and this is a transitional year. 500 in conference will be an encouraging goal.
This team lacks offensive weapons right now. Other the Tevonn and Bakari who else is a serious offensive threat on this team? Joe was one of those players but who knows if he's coming back this season.
Max has sort of stepped up his production but he's limited. This roster doesn't have many gifted scorers.
Quote from: VU2014 on December 29, 2017, 11:59:32 AM
This team lacks offensive weapons right now. Other the Tevonn and Bakari who else is a serious offensive threat on this team? Joe was one of those players but who knows if he's coming back this season.
Max has sort of stepped up his production but he's limited. This roster doesn't have many gifted scorers.
Many times I feel that Bakari's TO rate is too high for the return he gives us in points.
I feel that Tevonn will get stronger and if he had had a few more games under his belt after coming off the illness this game would have come down to the last shot like the Ball State game. Help from the centers would have been nice. Tevonn needs a few more games. He did look good. VU as a team still need to improve on FTs but it did get better.
Quote from: bbtds on December 29, 2017, 01:27:12 PM
Quote from: VU2014 on December 29, 2017, 11:59:32 AM
This team lacks offensive weapons right now. Other the Tevonn and Bakari who else is a serious offensive threat on this team? Joe was one of those players but who knows if he's coming back this season.
Max has sort of stepped up his production but he's limited. This roster doesn't have many gifted scorers.
Many times I feel that Bakari's TO rate is too high for the return he gives us in points.
I feel that Tevonn will get stronger and if he had had a few more games under his belt after coming off the illness this game would have come down to the last shot like the Ball State game. Help from the centers would have been nice. Tevonn needs a few more games. He did look good. VU as a team still need to improve on FTs but it did get better.
His assist to turnover is 1.15 while Lexus was 1.5 last year. However, Bakari is averaging 11.0 while Lex was at 5.2 and Bakari's shooting is better overall, from the 3 and also on free throws. I do think he will continue to get more comfortable running the offense and as a result he will improve his ratio. He was lights out shooting last night.
Looked at the play-by-play chart ... found it a bit interesting...
Following a Time Out (or the start of the half) ... valpo did the following with their first possession:
First Half:
Missed 3 by Walker
Turnover by Smits
Team Turnover
Turnover Bradford
Missed jumper by Joseph
Made jumper by Joseph
Second Half:
Turnover by Evelyn
Turnover by Golder
Two Made Free Throws by Walker
Made 3ptr by Walker
Missed shot by Smits
Turnover by Golder
Layup by Joseph
Missed 3ptr by Walker
Looking at the first 15 seconds coming out of stoppage...
The only "Stat-triggering activity" was:
Under 8 media first half: Bradford Turnover
Under 16 media second half: Two Walker Free Throws
2:51 to play in game: Joseph Layup
What a lame title for that Tweet by the IndyStar. We would have struggled in the Horizon League with as much team turnover we had, as well. It has nothing to do with the upgrade in league at this point.
Quote from: valpotx on December 29, 2017, 02:19:36 PM
What a lame title for that Tweet by the IndyStar. We would have struggled in the Horizon League with as much team turnover we had, as well. It has nothing to do with the upgrade in league at this point.
Not to mention we've taken care of business against MVC teams in recent history. Last night was the first time we've lost to Indiana State since 2004.
Quote from: VU2014 on December 29, 2017, 03:10:25 PM
Quote from: valpotx on December 29, 2017, 02:19:36 PM
What a lame title for that Tweet by the IndyStar. We would have struggled in the Horizon League with as much team turnover we had, as well. It has nothing to do with the upgrade in league at this point.
Not to mention we've taken care of business against MVC teams in recent history. Last night was the first time we've lost to Indiana State since 2004.
Totally uncalled for ... probably came from the Butler writer. I'd suggest emailing the Indianapolis Star to demand an apology/retraction.
Quote from: NativeCheesehead on December 29, 2017, 09:14:32 AMDerrick i'm ready to give up on.
Derrik--he still deserves to have his name spelled correctly, right, MotiveCheesespread?
I am not usually a fan of long posts but I feel like I have no choice but to share this experience. So bear with me.
Being on a break and having a slow week, my wife and I decided to make an overnight trip to Terre-Haute to witness the beginning of a new era and visit a town we have never been to. As we pulled into the first parking lot in front of the arena, a gentleman asked us if we had permits, which we didn't, he nicely directed us to the next lot literally across the street. As I was driving there, my wife was getting her purse to pay for parking except for the young man who was directing traffic telling us that parking was free!!! That's right. We parked 100 steps away from the stadium entrance for free.
We went into the stadium (Hulman Center) and what a beautiful facility that is. Not a new facility, opened in 1973 but is extremely well maintained and is a wonderful place to watch a basketball game. We were sitting in the lower bowl, around 10 rows up behind the Valpo bench. But the seats are set up in a way that gave me the feeling that I could tap coach Lottich on the shoulder or participate in the time-out conversation. Needless to say, every single one of the 10k seats in the arena is a real padded seat. No bleachers and no wooden seats. The lighting, the audio system, and the concession stands were all top notch. The halftime show was NOT a group of 6th graders playing basketball. It was a guy doing frisbee tricks with his dog. It was interesting enough for people to actually watch (imagine that).
To summarize, I can't help but think how disappointed other MVC fans will be when they come to Valpo. Heck, I myself will be disappointed parking across campus and skiing through the snow tomorrow to sit on a slab of wood for two hours. I am not sure how, but Valpo is now playing with the big boys and we need to step up our game - both on and off the court.
Quote from: ValpoFan on December 30, 2017, 12:33:30 PM
I am not usually a fan of long posts but I feel like I have no choice but to share this experience. So bear with me.
Being on a break and having a slow week, my wife and I decided to make an overnight trip to Terre-Haute to witness the beginning of a new era and visit a town we have never been to. As we pulled into the first parking lot in front of the arena, a gentleman asked us if we had permits, which we didn't, he nicely directed us to the next lot literally across the street. As I was driving there, my wife was getting her purse to pay for parking except for the young man who was directing traffic telling us that parking was free!!! That's right. We parked 100 steps away from the stadium entrance for free.
We went into the stadium (Hulman Center) and what a beautiful facility that is. Not a new facility, opened in 1973 but is extremely well maintained and is a wonderful place to watch a basketball game. We were sitting in the lower bowl, around 10 rows up behind the Valpo bench. But the seats are set up in a way that gave me the feeling that I could tap coach Lottich on the shoulder or participate in the time-out conversation. Needless to say, every single one of the 10k seats in the arena is a real padded seat. No bleachers and no wooden seats. The lighting, the audio system, and the concession stands were all top notch. The halftime show was NOT a group of 6th graders playing basketball. It was a guy doing frisbee tricks with his dog. It was interesting enough for people to actually watch (imagine that).
To summarize, I can't help but think how disappointed other MVC fans will be when they come to Valpo. Heck, I myself will be disappointed parking across campus and skiing through the snow tomorrow to sit on a slab of wood for two hours. I am not sure how, but Valpo is now playing with the big boys and we need to step up our game - both on AND off the court.
Agreed.
CC: President Heckler, Board of Directors, Mark LaBarbera
Quote from: ValpoFan on December 30, 2017, 12:33:30 PMI am not usually a fan of long posts but I feel like I have no choice but to share this experience. So bear with me. Being on a break and having a slow week, my wife and I decided to make an overnight trip to Terre-Haute to witness the beginning of a new era and visit a town we have never been to. As we pulled into the first parking lot in front of the arena, a gentleman asked us if we had permits, which we didn't, he nicely directed us to the next lot literally across the street. As I was driving there, my wife was getting her purse to pay for parking except for the young man who was directing traffic telling us that parking was free!!! That's right. We parked 100 steps away from the stadium entrance for free. We went into the stadium (Hulman Center) and what a beautiful facility that is. Not a new facility, opened in 1973 but is extremely well maintained and is a wonderful place to watch a basketball game. We were sitting in the lower bowl, around 10 rows up behind the Valpo bench. But the seats are set up in a way that gave me the feeling that I could tap coach Lottich on the shoulder or participate in the time-out conversation. Needless to say, every single one of the 10k seats in the arena is a real padded seat. No bleachers and no wooden seats. The lighting, the audio system, and the concession stands were all top notch. The halftime show was NOT a group of 6th graders playing basketball. It was a guy doing frisbee tricks with his dog. It was interesting enough for people to actually watch (imagine that). To summarize, I can't help but think how disappointed other MVC fans will be when they come to Valpo. Heck, I myself will be disappointed parking across campus and skiing through the snow tomorrow to sit on a slab of wood for two hours. I am not sure how, but Valpo is now playing with the big boys and we need to step up our game - both on and off the court.
And it's only going to get nicer with the recently approved renovation package the university received for the Hulman Center. If even ISU is stepping up then the need for Valpo to do so becomes even more pronounced, even more dire.
Do they no longer have halftime acts that are similar at Valpo? I remember the guy with the dogs, the trampoline jumping kids, etc. It was very rare that it was just a bunch of little kids playing basketball.