Since we're only a few days away from the start of official practices for the Canadian trip, and it's pretty much a certainty that Vashil is returning, I've got an early itch to talk about the upcoming season.
With everyone back, plus our 7' IN HS All Star, plus the return of former starting PG Lexus Williams, we almost have to be better than last year. That said, I'm having a hard time getting my head around how much better we can be than last year's version. The bar last year's team set is so high. We are definitely in uncharted waters as a program, that's for sure.
Any thoughts anyone?
Certainty that vashil is returning? Based on what facts?
I didn't say it's "a certainty." I said "pretty much a certainty." Nothing is certain until it's officially announced, of course, but the icing on the cake for me was a quote from Oren's Friday article:
Drew is excited for the preseason trip to Canada, largely for the opportunity to begin workouts a bit earlier than normal. While the Crusaders expect to return every key contributor from last season (if Vashil Fernandez does in fact return), Drew knows that every season brings different challenges.
Just speaking for myself, I don't think it takes much reading beteen the lines (along with the other info we already have) to believe he's coming back.
A year of maturity and muscle can only help even if we just have the guys from last year. Remember, at least at the start of last year, we had a bunch of guys who hadn't played together--The Walkers, E, David and Max. Now add Shane and Derrik plus probably Relvoa and who knows what might happen. Clearly we have to be improved. By how much? Only time will tell.
Just a reminder that if Vashil's return is "almost a certainty" then one of the other team members from last year or one of the freshmen will not be on this year's team.
Quote from: wh on July 19, 2015, 03:59:11 PMI'm having a hard time getting my head around how much better we can be than last year's version.
Quote from: vu72 on July 19, 2015, 07:48:08 PMClearly we have to be improved. By how much?
Everything has fallen into place so this will be a real test of coaching ability and player discipline. A platoon system isn't what every player or every coach wants, but it looks like something we are almost forced to experiment with! Seems like the depth and quickness will invite us to pressure more than we ever have and we will need to prove that both platoons can transition to the half court when the quick open shot is just not there. I expect our post offense (in both platoons) to be much improved also.
OK so I have just described a system of offense with which we have no experience and will temporarily struggle, but this should define the outer limit of our overall team improvement and effectiveness.
Just how good a coach is Bryce Drew? I don't have that answer yet but if he meets my best expectations :thumbsup: I think this might be his last year at Valpo. :'( Or maybe not.
Expectations are so high that they're bound to disappoint.
Quote from: a3uge on July 19, 2015, 11:02:07 PM
Expectations are so high that they're bound to disappoint.
..............OR we could try to limit our expectations so it will either be a pleasant surprise or as expected. It doesn't have to be a disappointment. Although some fans just can't help but put more than attainable expectations on their team. It's human nature.
Regardless if we meet our goals and expectations, we will win a lot of games and be competitive. We have too much talent not to be and the team that has more talent usually wins. (unless your Mercy...)
Will we beat BCS schools? Maybe
Will we win the conference for the 4th time in 5 years? Maybe
Will we win the HL tourney in Detroit? Maybe
Will we be competitive against BCS schools with a great chance of winning the conference and Tourney? Absolutely. :thumbsup: Thats the one guarantee.
Indiana Student Athletes to watch in 2015-2016, Alec Peters is #1 in basketball: "The sky is the limit for Valpo's Peters, an incredible shooter who stands 6-foot-9, a description that also describes Larry Bird, the greatest athlete to ever come out of the state...."
http://www.breitbart.com/sports/2015/07/25/indiana-25-student-athletes-to-watch-in-2015-16/ (http://www.breitbart.com/sports/2015/07/25/indiana-25-student-athletes-to-watch-in-2015-16/)
I haven't heard any noise about Shane Hammink. I know we have big time players at every position coming back. We are two deep everywhere. But I figure this is a guy we can get excited about. What's his story?
8 scholarship players between 6-7 and 7 foot with an avg. of 6-9. That's just crazy.
Especially considering that just a few years ago we were starting 6' 7" Cory Johnson at the 5.
Considering everyone that's coming back, as an outsider, I would consider this year to be a failure if Drew can't win a tournament game with this squad. This team is long, athletic and experienced. Lot to be excited about for you guys.
As long as we stay healthy (knocking on wood), you are correct!
Quote from: valpotx on July 30, 2015, 01:42:08 PMAs long as we stay healthy (knocking on wood), you are correct!
You are correct Tex.
Reminds me of 2008 OU Football team who lost the national championship game to LSU. They returned the Heisman trophy winner and a lot of starters in 2009. Everybody was excited and then the Heisman trophy winner goes down early with several other players got hit but the injury bug. The OU team with most talent in years finished 8-5 with several watching from the sidelines on crutches. On a better note, that upcoming NFL draft saw the first 4 out of 5 draft picks were sooners.
Now that the mystery of Vashil's return has been solved, we can pass time by speculating about lesser issues. ;D
For instance, uniform numbers are missing from the new roster for the added players. Smits wore #24 in high school, but that number is hanging in the rafters. His father wore #45, which is what I would expect Derrik to go to as a second choice. However, it is going to seem odd to see that number on someone other than Broekhoff. (I suspect Hammink will wear #11.)
Quote from: swiftmutiny on July 28, 2015, 07:08:37 PM
Especially considering that just a few years ago we were starting 6' 7" Cory Johnson at the 5.
Was he really listed at merely 6' 7"? Those were the days...
Quote from: bbtds on July 20, 2015, 11:49:32 AM
Quote from: a3uge on July 19, 2015, 11:02:07 PM
Expectations are so high that they're bound to disappoint.
..............OR we could try to limit our expectations so it will either be a pleasant surprise or as expected. It doesn't have to be a disappointment. Although some fans just can't help but put more than attainable expectations on their team. It's human nature.
Maybe I'll change my tune if we, I don't know, start ranking regularly in the top-25 (and not just "receiving votes"), or draw a 4 seed, or something equally astounding. But, I'll be delighted with a tournament win. Any NCAA tournament win in a non-play-in game. I'd be very pleased to beat a BCS team. Any BCS team. I will, almost undoubtedly (unless we tank, or get hit hard by injuries, etc.), be disappointed if we don't win the conference tournament. I suppose I'd accept an at-large bid as a consolation prize.
Who would ever have thought at the time that all 5 players in this "Valpo Returns" video from April would be coming back?
! No longer available (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DQ3uyX15ESg#)
Little noticed in our recent conversations is the status of Chandler Levingston Simon. He is our third NBA bloodline player and appears to be a walk on for an already incredibly deep team.
I promise not to talk about redshirt possibilities until after the boys return from Canada but my early guess is that somebody should. Wait! Maybe we can find another capable walk on and institute a 3 platoon offense! ::)
Projecting Valparaiso basketball playing time
http://www.nwitimes.com/blogs/sports/valparaiso-university/projecting-valparaiso-basketball-playing-time/article_229e617a-3731-11e5-a7e9-b7052ebde8f9.html?mobile_touch=true (http://www.nwitimes.com/blogs/sports/valparaiso-university/projecting-valparaiso-basketball-playing-time/article_229e617a-3731-11e5-a7e9-b7052ebde8f9.html?mobile_touch=true)
The new roster has been updated with revised height and weight numbers:
http://www.valpoathletics.com/mbasketball/roster/#.VbuQQjBViko (http://www.valpoathletics.com/mbasketball/roster/#.VbuQQjBViko)
Quote from: valpopal on July 30, 2015, 04:56:37 PM
Now that the mystery of Vashil's return has been solved, we can pass time by speculating about lesser issues. ;D
For instance, uniform numbers are missing from the new roster for the added players. Smits wore #24 in high school, but that number is hanging in the rafters. His father wore #45, which is what I would expect Derrik to go to as a second choice. However, it is going to seem odd to see that number on someone other than Broekhoff. (I suspect Hammink will wear #11.)
Update: Looks like Hammink will wear #11. Pleased to see Smits will wear 21 instead of 24 (not possible) or 45. Levingston-Simon will wear #30.
At 6-10/260 Vashil is up 15 lbs. :o
Derrik Smits is listed at 7-1. Never taller than 7 foot in height stats I have seen before. Is it possible he's still growing? :o
Quote from: wh on July 31, 2015, 10:55:27 AM
At 6-10/260 Vashil is up 15 lbs. :o
Derrik Smits is listed at 7-1. Never taller than 7 foot in height stats I have seen before. Is it possible he's still growing? :o
From Derrik's Twitter page:
Been measured at 7'1 three times now but they only put 7'0 on the website
Just looked up a video of Chandler. Even thought the video was from 2 years ago, he looks very good for a walk on!
From yesterday
[tweet]626894116287291392[/tweet]
So, yes, I think it's still possible. Who knows?
Ah, here it is from Aaron
[tweet]627134117608615936[/tweet]
[tweet]626812808655687681[/tweet]
Derrik Smits easing into new home at Valparaiso
http://www.nwitimes.com/sports/basketball/college/derrik-smits-easing-into-new-home-at-valparaiso/article_7c3f40ad-c14c-5416-82d8-5449cda5bf86.html (http://www.nwitimes.com/sports/basketball/college/derrik-smits-easing-into-new-home-at-valparaiso/article_7c3f40ad-c14c-5416-82d8-5449cda5bf86.html)
A couple of random thoughts (neither of which may have any validity):
---I wonder if the athletic department will appeal to get another season for KC. He essentially lost a year and a half of eligibility while certain others in similar situations did not, and still others were allowed to play immediately after transferring based on the mostly bogus "family need" excuse.
---I wonder if someone will be redshirted this year. The most likely candidate IMO would by Max. In all probability he will be playing behind KC, Lexus and EVN at the point and get little more than mop up minutes. Redshirting him would put him on the same track with Derrik and position him to play a major role in his final two years. I think he has a lot of potential and investing another year in him could prove to be a win-win.
Quote from: wh on July 31, 2015, 08:31:01 AM
Projecting Valparaiso basketball playing time
http://www.nwitimes.com/blogs/sports/valparaiso-university/projecting-valparaiso-basketball-playing-time/article_229e617a-3731-11e5-a7e9-b7052ebde8f9.html?mobile_touch=true (http://www.nwitimes.com/blogs/sports/valparaiso-university/projecting-valparaiso-basketball-playing-time/article_229e617a-3731-11e5-a7e9-b7052ebde8f9.html?mobile_touch=true)
If we follow Paul's projection of playing time, that would suggest the five on the first squad to be Carter, T. Walker, D. Walker, Peters, and Fernandez. The second squad by playing time would be split among Nickerson, Skara, Hammink, Adekoya, and Smits (and Williams if healthy). Joseph, Davidson, and Levingston-Simon would be at the end of the bench and get few minutes. With this thinking, and assuming Lexus is 100% healthy, it might be worth considering redshirting Joseph as wh suggested. Also, I am thinking our second squad could have competed with a number of past starting Crusader squads, especially when you consider the heights of the second squad would be 6'8", 6'8", 6'7", 6'7", & 7'1".
Quote from: wh on August 02, 2015, 12:10:26 AM
A couple of random thoughts (neither of which may have any validity):
---I wonder if the athletic department will appeal to get another season for KC. He essentially lost a year and a half of eligibility while certain others in similar situations did not, and still others were allowed to play immediately after transferring based on the mostly bogus "family need" excuse.
---I wonder if someone will be redshirted this year. The most likely candidate IMO would by Max. In all probability he will be playing behind KC, Lexus and EVN at the point and get little more than mop up minutes. Redshirting him would put him on the same track with Derrik and position him to play a major role in his final two years. I think he has a lot of potential and investing another year in him could prove to be a win-win.
To expound on my point about KC, he left st. Louis at the end of the 1st semester of his freshman year and transferred to Valpo. Thereafter, he sat out 2 semesters and began playing in the 2nd semester of his 2nd year. The issue is why at that point was he considered a 2nd semester sophomore instead of red shirt freshman? why did he lose a year of eligibility just because he transferred at the end of the first semester when he would have been granted an extra year had he transferred at the end of the 2nd semester? This never made any sense to me, and it never will.
In my opinion, to go more than 10 deep would be a huge coaching mistake. Going more than 10 deep will interrupt rhythm, and even going that deep is pushing it! Players need to be in long enough to get a feel for the game.
5- Vashil/Smits
4 - Peters/Jubril
3 - D.Walker/Skara/Hammik
2 - T.Walker/Nickerson
1 - Carter/Lexus
I see 11 names listed above. 1 of these guys is simply not going to play any meaningful minutes, not including Joseph who should definitely redshirt if possible. Of course, this is assuming Lexus is healthy. The "fat" seems to be at the 3 position. All the 1's and 2's are interchangeable. The 4's and 5's are in my mind a given and also somewhat interchangeable. So one of those guys on the 3 line is the odd man out. Who is it going to be? Only other 2 people I think could be the odd man out are Jubril or Lexus. Everyone else seems pretty safe if healthy.
Perhaps this could be a poll question. Who is the odd man out for game time (other than cleanup minutes and minutes against non D1 opponents?) Lexus/D.Walker/Hammik/Skara/Jubril
Quote from: SanityLost17 on August 02, 2015, 06:50:26 PM
In my opinion, to go more than 10 deep would be a huge coaching mistake. Going more than 10 deep will interrupt rhythm, and even going that deep is pushing it! Players need to be in long enough to get a feel for the game.
5- Vashil/Smits
4 - Peters/Jubril
3 - D.Walker/Skara/Hammik
2 - T.Walker/Nickerson
1 - Carter/Lexus
I see 11 names listed above. 1 of these guys is simply not going to play any meaningful minutes, not including Joseph who should definitely redshirt if possible. Of course, this is assuming Lexus is healthy. The "fat" seems to be at the 3 position. All the 1's and 2's are interchangeable. The 4's and 5's are in my mind a given and also somewhat interchangeable. So one of those guys on the 3 line is the odd man out. Who is it going to be? Only other 2 people I think could be the odd man out are Jubril or Lexus. Everyone else seems pretty safe if healthy.
Perhaps this could be a poll question. Who is the odd man out for game time (other than cleanup minutes and minutes against non D1 opponents?) Lexus/D.Walker/Hammik/Skara/Jubril
Much of the questions you raise will be answered by who our opponents play. Matchups, pure and simple. If we need bangers then its Skara and Jubril. If we need speed and athleticism its Hammink, Nickerson and the Walkers. The regulars in most situations will be Lexus/Carter, Peters and Vershil. Still, fouls will also dictate combinations.
It will be a challenging coaching situation, but certainly no more difficult then most Big Ten programs... ;D
Quote from: valpopal on August 02, 2015, 04:22:02 PMIf we follow Paul's projection of playing time, that would suggest the five on the first squad to be Carter, T. Walker, D. Walker, Peters, and Fernandez. The second squad by playing time would be split among Nickerson, Skara, Hammink, Adekoya, and Smits (and Williams if healthy). Joseph, Davidson, and Levingston-Simon would be at the end of the bench and get few minutes.
Quote from: SanityLost17 on August 02, 2015, 06:50:26 PM5- Vashil/Smits
4 - Peters/Jubril
3 - D.Walker/Skara/Hammik
2 - T.Walker/Nickerson
1 - Carter/Lexus
I have a real problem with the lineup for the 3 spot. I know that at the beginning of last year D. Walker was a big "go to" person for us as T. Walker, Skara and Nickerson got adjusted to the college game and in the case of Nickerson, actually playing again after a long lay off. As the year went on I felt that there were games in which he really pressed and for some reason thought that he
had to score, taking some quick and bad shots, when that was no longer the case at that time of the season with Peters and T. Walker now our primary threats. I think that if Hammik is as good as advertised, his physical advantage over D. Walker is going to make it hard to keep him off the court. We saw that already in some situations last year with Skara. It is going to be hard to keep Hammik and Skara off the court so I think that D. Walker could be the odd man out at the 3 spot.
Quote from: wh on August 02, 2015, 04:38:28 PMTo expound on my point about KC, he left st. Louis at the end of the 1st semester of his freshman year and transferred to Valpo. Thereafter, he sat out 2 semesters and began playing in the 2nd semester of his 2nd year. The issue is why at that point was he considered a 2nd semester sophomore instead of red shirt freshman? why did he lose a year of eligibility just because he transferred at the end of the first semester when he would have been granted an extra year had he transferred at the end of the 2nd semester? This never made any sense to me, and it never will.
Quote from: wh on August 02, 2015, 04:38:28 PMTo expound on my point about KC, he left st. Louis at the end of the 1st semester of his freshman year and transferred to Valpo. Thereafter, he sat out 2 semesters and began playing in the 2nd semester of his 2nd year. The issue is why at that point was he considered a 2nd semester sophomore instead of red shirt freshman? why did he lose a year of eligibility just because he transferred at the end of the first semester when he would have been granted an extra year had he transferred at the end of the 2nd semester? This never made any sense to me, and it never will.
May not make sense, but the NCAA counts playing in a season as a season. So Carter played his freshman year at St. Louis (one semester), his sophomore year as a Crusader (one semester), his junior year as a Crusader. That's just how they do it, and it happens a lot. For example, Brandon Kearney last year at Detroit: freshman year and soph fall at Michigan State; sat spring/fall semester, played 1 semester at Arizona (junior year), then senior year at Detroit - 6 semester total, over 4 seasons. It happened with Lavonte Dority, too, remember. The handful of games he played with South Florida before transferring during his sophomore year counted as a full season, and so he only played 1 1/2 seasons at Valpo.
The NCAA maybe should have a mid-season transfer redshirt, kind of like if you are injured and have played in fewer than 6 games you don't count that season. Bu they don't have that, and Carter's not in the least unique.
I've asked about Carter in the past. I'd be shocked if he got another year. He's a senior, plain and simple. I always felt there was a good chance that Vashil could get a year back and I continued to ask questions about that. St. Louis wasn't very helpful during Carter's transfer process. They could've helped a bit, chose not to.
Quote from: FWalum on August 02, 2015, 08:10:20 PM
Quote from: valpopal on August 02, 2015, 04:22:02 PMIf we follow Paul's projection of playing time, that would suggest the five on the first squad to be Carter, T. Walker, D. Walker, Peters, and Fernandez. The second squad by playing time would be split among Nickerson, Skara, Hammink, Adekoya, and Smits (and Williams if healthy). Joseph, Davidson, and Levingston-Simon would be at the end of the bench and get few minutes.
Quote from: SanityLost17 on August 02, 2015, 06:50:26 PM5- Vashil/Smits
4 - Peters/Jubril
3 - D.Walker/Skara/Hammik
2 - T.Walker/Nickerson
1 - Carter/Lexus
I have a real problem with the lineup for the 3 spot. I know that at the beginning of last year D. Walker was a big "go to" person for us as T. Walker, Skara and Nickerson got adjusted to the college game and in the case of Nickerson, actually playing again after a long lay off. As the year went on I felt that there were games in which he really pressed and for some reason thought that he had to score, taking some quick and bad shots, when that was no longer the case at that time of the season with Peters and T. Walker now our primary threats. I think that if Hammik is as good as advertised, his physical advantage over D. Walker is going to make it hard to keep him off the court. We saw that already in some situations last year with Skara. It is going to be hard to keep Hammik and Skara off the court so I think that D. Walker could be the odd man out at the 3 spot.
A few thoughts. First, players are going to get dinged up during the season and all players will not be available for every game. That will free up minutes. Second, this is a very versatile team with a number of players able to play more than one position. Jubril will see minutes at the 5 as well as the 4. Scara will get time at the 4 and the 3. Nickerson and D Walker could see time at the three and the 2. Bryce will have the flexibility to go big or small depending on the match ups. As long as the players buy into winning as a team versus padding personal stats or sulking over playing time, this could be a really exciting year.
I doubt if a game will go by without Nickerson seeing a few minutes at point. This is an option that Bryce will want to always threaten and occasionally exploit to our benefit. That said I am sure Bryce will be picking his spots to do so carefully.
Quote from: nkvu on August 02, 2015, 11:29:02 PMBryce will have the flexibility to go big or small depending on the match ups.
Yes and we are no longer a slow team incapable of applying effective full court pressure. I know in the past that was never Homer or Bryce's style but it could now (with our incredible depth) be an option worth experimentation. Let us hope Bryce adds some press strategies to his trick bag. That could also help keep more people involved with important roles.
The odd man out at the 3, if everyone remains relatively healthy throughout the season, Darien would be the odd man out most of the time. I'm sure though for the most part it will be an in-game decision. If Skara is having an off night, maybe Darien gets more time, or if EVN is having a big game, somebody doesn't see the court as much. That's the luxury of being so deep. Just about anyone on the team can have a 20+ point performance. We don't need to rely on one or two guys for the bulk of our scoring. Just look at the championship game, Alec had an off night, yet we still won the game rather easily because a guy like Skara stepped up; while GB basically relied on Sykes for the scoring and he was having issues and they had nobody else to fall back on.
Terker's Top 50 Previews: #44 Valparaiso Crusaders
http://www.reddit.com/r/CollegeBasketball/comments/3f02e8/terkers_top_50_previews_44_valparaiso_crusaders/ (http://www.reddit.com/r/CollegeBasketball/comments/3f02e8/terkers_top_50_previews_44_valparaiso_crusaders/)
EDIT: 2 days after this article was posted, Valpo center and reigning Horizon Defensive Player of the Year Vashil Fernandez was granted a final year of eligibility. His return will anchor the Valpo frontcourt and erase any doubts about this team's ability to defend and rebound.
With this news, I am moving Valpo up to #25 in my projections for this season. Seriously. Fear Valpo: they're loaded
Bryce Drew will soon be known as more than just that kid who made the incredible game-winner; more than just Homer's son. He's awakened the sleeping giant that is Valpo hoops, and the Crusaders' opponents have been served notice. This is a mid-major with vast potential - on the big stage.
Looking back over the past few seasons, everything panned out the way I was hoping for. Bryce and the rest of the coaching staff were able to use the Rowdy teams as a stepping stone into the future. The 12/13 team made it back to the tourney for the first time in 9 seasons, and during those 9 seasons there were some pretty lean years mixed in.
Without that team would the coaching staff been able to convince Alec to come to Valpo, he had a choice of many different schools, many that held more weight at the time than Valpo. Bringing in transfers like EVN, KC, and Hammink. Getting able to get guys like Tevonn and David to come in. As well as the latest big name in Smits. Everything went as planned after the 12/13 team. The 13/14 year was a down year but you knew the talent was there for the future and without Rowdy, KVW, Buggs, and Kenney; a team of this quality would simply be just a dream.
The coaching staff has done an absolutely phenomenal job recruiting. Arguably when Alec's 4 years are up he could easily be the greatest player to grace the court in a Valpo uniform. Vashil is the best defender in school hisotry. I'm sure many teams are kicking themselves for passing up on Tevonn, who is one of the best players in the HL, heck even kids like Skara and a little known transfer in Darien Walker come out of nowhere.
All in all, I want to thank the 12/13 team. For without that team none of this talk of a potential top 25 team would be possible. As painful as it was to see them be simply outmatched against Michigan State in the tournament, knowing an era was coming to an end. At the same time that was the beginning of a new chapter in Valpo basketball.
Anyways, is it November yet?
Quote from: Pathfinder on August 02, 2015, 08:29:37 PM
Quote from: wh on August 02, 2015, 04:38:28 PMTo expound on my point about KC, he left st. Louis at the end of the 1st semester of his freshman year and transferred to Valpo. Thereafter, he sat out 2 semesters and began playing in the 2nd semester of his 2nd year. The issue is why at that point was he considered a 2nd semester sophomore instead of red shirt freshman? why did he lose a year of eligibility just because he transferred at the end of the first semester when he would have been granted an extra year had he transferred at the end of the 2nd semester? This never made any sense to me, and it never will.
Quote from: wh on August 02, 2015, 04:38:28 PMTo expound on my point about KC, he left st. Louis at the end of the 1st semester of his freshman year and transferred to Valpo. Thereafter, he sat out 2 semesters and began playing in the 2nd semester of his 2nd year. The issue is why at that point was he considered a 2nd semester sophomore instead of red shirt freshman? why did he lose a year of eligibility just because he transferred at the end of the first semester when he would have been granted an extra year had he transferred at the end of the 2nd semester? This never made any sense to me, and it never will.
May not make sense, but the NCAA counts playing in a season as a season. So Carter played his freshman year at St. Louis (one semester), his sophomore year as a Crusader (one semester), his junior year as a Crusader. That's just how they do it, and it happens a lot. For example, Brandon Kearney last year at Detroit: freshman year and soph fall at Michigan State; sat spring/fall semester, played 1 semester at Arizona (junior year), then senior year at Detroit - 6 semester total, over 4 seasons. It happened with Lavonte Dority, too, remember. The handful of games he played with South Florida before transferring during his sophomore year counted as a full season, and so he only played 1 1/2 seasons at Valpo.
The NCAA maybe should have a mid-season transfer redshirt, kind of like if you are injured and have played in fewer than 6 games you don't count that season. Bu they don't have that, and Carter's not in the least unique.
I scratch my head as well with the Dority and Carter situations. It also amazes me that kids still transfer after that first semester, rather than riding it out one more semester.
Quote from: nkvu on August 02, 2015, 11:29:02 PM
Quote from: FWalum on August 02, 2015, 08:10:20 PM
Quote from: valpopal on August 02, 2015, 04:22:02 PMIf we follow Paul's projection of playing time, that would suggest the five on the first squad to be Carter, T. Walker, D. Walker, Peters, and Fernandez. The second squad by playing time would be split among Nickerson, Skara, Hammink, Adekoya, and Smits (and Williams if healthy). Joseph, Davidson, and Levingston-Simon would be at the end of the bench and get few minutes.
Quote from: SanityLost17 on August 02, 2015, 06:50:26 PM5- Vashil/Smits
4 - Peters/Jubril
3 - D.Walker/Skara/Hammik
2 - T.Walker/Nickerson
1 - Carter/Lexus
I have a real problem with the lineup for the 3 spot. I know that at the beginning of last year D. Walker was a big "go to" person for us as T. Walker, Skara and Nickerson got adjusted to the college game and in the case of Nickerson, actually playing again after a long lay off. As the year went on I felt that there were games in which he really pressed and for some reason thought that he had to score, taking some quick and bad shots, when that was no longer the case at that time of the season with Peters and T. Walker now our primary threats. I think that if Hammik is as good as advertised, his physical advantage over D. Walker is going to make it hard to keep him off the court. We saw that already in some situations last year with Skara. It is going to be hard to keep Hammik and Skara off the court so I think that D. Walker could be the odd man out at the 3 spot.
A few thoughts. First, players are going to get dinged up during the season and all players will not be available for every game. That will free up minutes. Second, this is a very versatile team with a number of players able to play more than one position. Jubril will see minutes at the 5 as well as the 4. Scara will get time at the 4 and the 3. Nickerson and D Walker could see time at the three and the 2. Bryce will have the flexibility to go big or small depending on the match ups. As long as the players buy into winning as a team versus padding personal stats or sulking over playing time, this could be a really exciting year.
Sounds like Bryce is going to have some Calipari problems this year.
The team that beat us by 3 in the NCAA tourney just a few months ago is the early favorite to be pre-season #1:
http://espn.go.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/13369291/maryland-terrapins-north-carolina-tar-heels-lead-no-longer-way-too-early-top-25 (http://espn.go.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/13369291/maryland-terrapins-north-carolina-tar-heels-lead-no-longer-way-too-early-top-25)
Quote from: valpotx on August 05, 2015, 10:30:54 AM
The team that beat us by 3 in the NCAA tourney just a few months ago is the early favorite to be pre-season #1:
http://espn.go.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/13369291/maryland-terrapins-north-carolina-tar-heels-lead-no-longer-way-too-early-top-25 (http://espn.go.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/13369291/maryland-terrapins-north-carolina-tar-heels-lead-no-longer-way-too-early-top-25)
Impressive list but we could hold our own with them.
My opinion--- take any random dozen of that 25--- play every one of them as a true road game for our OOC schedule, annnnnd we still win minimum 3, fair chance at 4 and a possibility of 5.
Have fun! :)
Quote from: justducky on August 05, 2015, 02:18:11 PM
Quote from: valpotx on August 05, 2015, 10:30:54 AM
The team that beat us by 3 in the NCAA tourney just a few months ago is the early favorite to be pre-season #1:
http://espn.go.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/13369291/maryland-terrapins-north-carolina-tar-heels-lead-no-longer-way-too-early-top-25 (http://espn.go.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/13369291/maryland-terrapins-north-carolina-tar-heels-lead-no-longer-way-too-early-top-25)
Impressive list but we could hold our own with them.
My opinion--- take any random dozen of that 25--- play every one of them as a true road game for our OOC schedule, annnnnd we still win minimum 3, fair chance at 4 and a possibility of 5.
Have fun! :)
I think we do better than that. The bottom 6 or 7 are very beatable and I would argue we should be ranked above most of them.
Um...don't we actually have to win a game against an actual large conference program before we can predict a victory against a top-25 team? A narrow loss to Maryland does not a competitor make.
Quote from: atkins on August 05, 2015, 03:36:07 PM
Um...don't we actually have to win a game against an actual large conference program before we can predict a victory against a top-25 team? A narrow loss to Maryland does not a competitor make.
Apparently you don't know how preseason conjecture works. Also was UCF not a large conference program? They are in the same conference as UCONN. We beat them 2 years ago and a large part of this team (Alec, Jubril, Lexus, Keith, Vashil) were part of that team
Maryland has a top 5 recruit - Diamond Stone. They're much better this year.
Preseason conjecture is tons of fun, and it's all in good spirit of course. But I really doubt we would outduel UNC, Kentucky or Kansas. We have to beat the Mizzou's and Nebraskas first...and not just the UCF's.
Quote from: atkins on August 05, 2015, 03:36:07 PMUm...don't we actually have to win a game against an actual large conference program before we can predict a victory against a top-25 team? A narrow loss to Maryland does not a competitor make.
We can predict a victory against a top-25 team any time we want UNTIL we've beaten one. Then it will no longer be a prediction. Also, many "large-conference programs are quite miserable so beating one doesn't make a prediction more sound. The narrow loss to Maryland, like most things by themselves, may not indicate much, but in the context of the team's entire 28-6 season, it pretty much soundly answers the question of whether they are competitors.
Quote from: atkins on August 05, 2015, 05:43:14 PM
Preseason conjecture is tons of fun, and it's all in good spirit of course. But I really doubt we would outduel UNC, Kentucky or Kansas. We have to beat the Mizzou's and Nebraskas first...and not just the UCF's.
Because Mizzou > Murray State because logic.
Quote from: a3uge on August 05, 2015, 05:24:03 PM
Maryland has a top 5 recruit - Diamond Stone. They're much better this year.
[/b]
They also lost two starters who played a combined 55 minutes against. Does Dez Wells ring a bell?
Quote from: atkins on August 05, 2015, 03:36:07 PMUm...don't we actually have to win a game against an actual large conference program before we can predict a victory against a top-25 team? A narrow loss to Maryland does not a competitor make.
Yeap. We have more moral victories than anyone. I think we are getting way ahead of ourselves with all of these predictions and "rankings". We have yet to beat anyone of substance (other than Butler) since 1999.
Quote from: Chairback on August 05, 2015, 08:40:09 PM
Quote from: atkins on August 05, 2015, 03:36:07 PMUm...don't we actually have to win a game against an actual large conference program before we can predict a victory against a top-25 team? A narrow loss to Maryland does not a competitor make.
Yeap. We have more moral victories than anyone. I think we are getting way ahead of ourselves with all of these predictions and "rankings". We have yet to beat anyone of substance (other than Butler) since 1999.
Speaking of whom, comments yeterday from the Butler message board:
The Indiana teams will be really good this year.
One team to keep in mind...Valpo. They return like their entire freakin' roster.
EDIT: Evansville should be pretty decent too.
I agree. Valpo is going to have one hell of a team. I read somewhere that they are returning 99% of their scoring. They could easily crack the top 25.
I would love to get some series against them again and shut their fans up about their win streak (mind you the 3 wins came from a bad Butler squad).
Quote from: wh on August 06, 2015, 12:48:50 AMI would love to get some series against them again and shut their fans up about their win streak (mind you the 3 wins came from a bad Butler squad).
The real blowhards in power at Butler wouldn't even consider Valpo for the same reason Indiana or Notre Dame won't consider Valpo. They are way too full of themselves these days.
It's amazing to see how far this team has come over the past few seasons. From making it back to the tournament for the first time in nearly a decade to what can potentially be a national championship contender.
This team can be by far the best team in school history. Am I saying we are a national championship team? Not by any means. If we do play to our potential we can easily be in the discussion of the best of the best. This is all just preseason wishful thinking but if everything goes as I hope this could easily be a Top 15 team.
Quote from: wh on August 06, 2015, 12:48:50 AM
Quote from: Chairback on August 05, 2015, 08:40:09 PM
Quote from: atkins on August 05, 2015, 03:36:07 PMUm...don't we actually have to win a game against an actual large conference program before we can predict a victory against a top-25 team? A narrow loss to Maryland does not a competitor make.
Yeap. We have more moral victories than anyone. I think we are getting way ahead of ourselves with all of these predictions and "rankings". We have yet to beat anyone of substance (other than Butler) since 1999.
Speaking of whom, comments yeterday from the Butler message board:
The Indiana teams will be really good this year.
One team to keep in mind...Valpo. They return like their entire freakin' roster.
EDIT: Evansville should be pretty decent too.
I agree. Valpo is going to have one hell of a team. I read somewhere that they are returning 99% of their scoring. They could easily crack the top 25.
I would love to get some series against them again and shut their fans up about their win streak (mind you the 3 wins came from a bad Butler squad).
[/b]
Nice of them to remember! Actually it is a four game win streak. The streak began against a "bad" Butler team in the 2010-2011 season. That "bad" team played in the NCAA Title game. The streak continued with three more wins in the 2011-2012 season when a "bad" Butler team went 22-15 and won two games in the CBI post-season tournament. Then they quit playing us. ;D
Well said 72! :thumbsup:
Quote from: vu72 on August 06, 2015, 10:38:40 AM
Quote from: wh on August 06, 2015, 12:48:50 AM
Quote from: Chairback on August 05, 2015, 08:40:09 PM
Quote from: atkins on August 05, 2015, 03:36:07 PMUm...don't we actually have to win a game against an actual large conference program before we can predict a victory against a top-25 team? A narrow loss to Maryland does not a competitor make.
Yeap. We have more moral victories than anyone. I think we are getting way ahead of ourselves with all of these predictions and "rankings". We have yet to beat anyone of substance (other than Butler) since 1999.
Speaking of whom, comments yeterday from the Butler message board:
The Indiana teams will be really good this year.
One team to keep in mind...Valpo. They return like their entire freakin' roster.
EDIT: Evansville should be pretty decent too.
I agree. Valpo is going to have one hell of a team. I read somewhere that they are returning 99% of their scoring. They could easily crack the top 25.
I would love to get some series against them again and shut their fans up about their win streak (mind you the 3 wins came from a bad Butler squad).
[/b]
Nice of them to remember! Actually it is a four game win streak. The streak began against a "bad" Butler team in the 2010-2011 season. That "bad" team played in the NCAA Title game. The streak continued with three more wins in the 2011-2012 season when a "bad" Butler team went 22-15 and won two games in the CBI post-season tournament. Then they quit playing us. ;D
Not to discredit anything that we have done, but that 2011-2012 team was not a good Butler team at all. The early departures of Hayward and Mack to the NBA left them with so little offense. I remember watching their games, all you had to do was put your defense in the paint as no one could shoot on their team. They went 22-15 because they weren't a bad team mid-major team, but they weren't anything like their other teams. Sometimes I read these posts and Paul's tweets and think we thump our chest a little too much about capitalizing on their worst year in a long time (yes even worse than 2013-2014 BE team they had).
Quote from: classof2014 on August 06, 2015, 09:48:00 AM
It's amazing to see how far this team has come over the past few seasons. From making it back to the tournament for the first time in nearly a decade to what can potentially be a national championship contender.
This team can be by far the best team in school history. Am I saying we are a national championship team? Not by any means. If we do play to our potential we can easily be in the discussion of the best of the best. This is all just preseason wishful thinking but if everything goes as I hope this could easily be a Top 15 team.
You seem to be contradicting yourself. I think these team can compete with most teams in the top 25, but to me there is still a lot more to prove. Playing a close game to high majors isn't enough for me to say we will be a top 15 team. Though I'm hopeful ;D
We don't tout the 4 straight wins against Butler because that 2011-2012 was a fantastic Butler team. We tout the wins because most/many of us despise Butler, and love every win we get against them in any sport! I saw a car with a Butler license plate holder on my way home from work the other day, got them to roll down their window, and yelled 'Butler sucks, go Valpo' :lol:. I cringe every time I see Pat Neshek (Houston Astros, Butler alum) pitch against the Texas Rangers, just hoping that we drill long-ball after long-ball off of him. I respect, but despise Butler :).
Quote from: Valpo18 on August 06, 2015, 12:18:46 PM
Quote from: vu72 on August 06, 2015, 10:38:40 AM
Quote from: wh on August 06, 2015, 12:48:50 AM
Quote from: Chairback on August 05, 2015, 08:40:09 PM
Quote from: atkins on August 05, 2015, 03:36:07 PMUm...don't we actually have to win a game against an actual large conference program before we can predict a victory against a top-25 team? A narrow loss to Maryland does not a competitor make.
Yeap. We have more moral victories than anyone. I think we are getting way ahead of ourselves with all of these predictions and "rankings". We have yet to beat anyone of substance (other than Butler) since 1999.
Speaking of whom, comments yeterday from the Butler message board:
The Indiana teams will be really good this year.
One team to keep in mind...Valpo. They return like their entire freakin' roster.
EDIT: Evansville should be pretty decent too.
I agree. Valpo is going to have one hell of a team. I read somewhere that they are returning 99% of their scoring. They could easily crack the top 25.
I would love to get some series against them again and shut their fans up about their win streak (mind you the 3 wins came from a bad Butler squad).
[/b]
Nice of them to remember! Actually it is a four game win streak. The streak began against a "bad" Butler team in the 2010-2011 season. That "bad" team played in the NCAA Title game. The streak continued with three more wins in the 2011-2012 season when a "bad" Butler team went 22-15 and won two games in the CBI post-season tournament. Then they quit playing us. ;D
Not to discredit anything that we have done, but that 2011-2012 team was not a good Butler team at all. The early departures of Hayward and Mack to the NBA left them with so little offense. I remember watching their games, all you had to do was put your defense in the paint as no one could shoot on their team. They went 22-15 because they weren't a bad team mid-major team, but they weren't anything like their other teams. Sometimes I read these posts and Paul's tweets and think we thump our chest a little too much about capitalizing on their worst year in a long time (yes even worse than 2013-2014 BE team they had).
And their other teams that were "anything like their other teams"?? They had Hayward, Howard and Mack plus Ronald Nored. They probably will never have a team with that much talent.
Did Butler used to play in our conference?
Quote from: a3uge on August 06, 2015, 01:42:08 PM
Did Butler used to play in our conference?
Very funny. But I'll humor you. They have briefly been in our conference, specifically for 36 of the last 65 years. In football, just a little longer. 65 of the last 65 years.
Quote from: vu72 on August 06, 2015, 01:57:44 PMQuote from: a3uge on August 06, 2015, 01:42:08 PMDid Butler used to play in our conference?
Very funny. But I'll humor you. They have briefly been in our conference, specifically for 36 of the last 65 years.
Must be a different Butler. This one (the one we beat) had its fans suggesting they might have been a "bad team". The other one's fans believed that its excrement did not emit a foul odor.
Quote from: wh on August 06, 2015, 12:48:50 AM
Speaking of whom, comments yesterday from the Butler message board:
The Indiana teams will be really good this year.
One team to keep in mind...Valpo. They return like their entire freakin' roster.
EDIT: Evansville should be pretty decent too.
I agree. Valpo is going to have one hell of a team. I read somewhere that they are returning 99% of their scoring. They could easily crack the top 25.
I would love to get some series against them again and shut their fans up about their win streak (mind you the 3 wins came from a bad Butler squad).
Exactly because we hold a 4-game winning streak against them is why they most likely will not be scheduling us anytime soon. Why would they risk extending their losing streak to as many as 7 games against what should be loaded Valpo teams for at least the next 3 seasons? Speaking of which, imagine a 2017-18 team anchored by 7-1 (and still growing) junior center Derrik Smits and 4 highly talented, battle-tested seniors in David Skara, Tevonn Walker, Lexus Williams and Max Joseph (and who knows who else by then).
Quote from: vu72 on August 06, 2015, 01:39:13 PM
Quote from: Valpo18 on August 06, 2015, 12:18:46 PM
Quote from: vu72 on August 06, 2015, 10:38:40 AM
Quote from: wh on August 06, 2015, 12:48:50 AM
Quote from: Chairback on August 05, 2015, 08:40:09 PM
Quote from: atkins on August 05, 2015, 03:36:07 PMUm...don't we actually have to win a game against an actual large conference program before we can predict a victory against a top-25 team? A narrow loss to Maryland does not a competitor make.
Yeap. We have more moral victories than anyone. I think we are getting way ahead of ourselves with all of these predictions and "rankings". We have yet to beat anyone of substance (other than Butler) since 1999.
Speaking of whom, comments yeterday from the Butler message board:
The Indiana teams will be really good this year.
One team to keep in mind...Valpo. They return like their entire freakin' roster.
EDIT: Evansville should be pretty decent too.
I agree. Valpo is going to have one hell of a team. I read somewhere that they are returning 99% of their scoring. They could easily crack the top 25.
I would love to get some series against them again and shut their fans up about their win streak (mind you the 3 wins came from a bad Butler squad).
[/b]
Nice of them to remember! Actually it is a four game win streak. The streak began against a "bad" Butler team in the 2010-2011 season. That "bad" team played in the NCAA Title game. The streak continued with three more wins in the 2011-2012 season when a "bad" Butler team went 22-15 and won two games in the CBI post-season tournament. Then they quit playing us. ;D
Not to discredit anything that we have done, but that 2011-2012 team was not a good Butler team at all. The early departures of Hayward and Mack to the NBA left them with so little offense. I remember watching their games, all you had to do was put your defense in the paint as no one could shoot on their team. They went 22-15 because they weren't a bad team mid-major team, but they weren't anything like their other teams. Sometimes I read these posts and Paul's tweets and think we thump our chest a little too much about capitalizing on their worst year in a long time (yes even worse than 2013-2014 BE team they had).
And their other teams that were "anything like their other teams"?? They had Hayward, Howard and Mack plus Ronald Nored. They probably will never have a team with that much talent.
I'm not saying that the 2009-2010 is the status quo for Butler's teams because it obviously isn't. You're right, they might not ever have a team that talented again. All I'm saying is that the 2011-2012 team was not the normal quality team that we see from Butler. We capitalized on it, as did other teams.
For some reason I thought this thread was about the 2015-16 season, not the 2011-12 season for Butler. ;) Looking at the advanced metrics though, the 2011-12 team was the worst Butler team in the last decade. Valpo had a good team that year and took advantage of it (as good teams should). It'll be awhile before I could see the two schools scheduling each other, simply because Butler's in the Big East now so they see themselves as a major conference program, yet every other program in the state still sees them as the team from the Horizon League, so the Valpos, Ball States and Evansvilles won't give them a 2 for 1 deal or something similar like they would other schools in their league. I'm not suggesting one school is right or wrong in their thinking, just that is likely the reality of the situation. It's the same reason Notre Dame won't schedule a home and home with Butler, but Brey said he wants Notre Dame to open up DePaul's new facility when it's done being built.
Back to next year though...In all honesty, if the two teams played next season I wouldn't be surprised if Valpo won because they have way size than Butler and Alec Peters is an offensive force. Valpo's defense could also be as good as Butler's was last season (7th nationally in defensive efficiency) considering their length and they bring all that experience back. However, I do expect both to be good and represent the state (along with IU, ND and Purdue) in the NCAA tournament. Hopefully this year they don't all get put in the same bracket.
.
Quote from: IrishDawg on August 07, 2015, 06:45:47 AM
For some reason I thought this thread was about the 2015-16 season, not the 2011-12 season for Butler. ;) Looking at the advanced metrics though, the 2011-12 team was the worst Butler team in the last decade. Valpo had a good team that year and took advantage of it (as good teams should). It'll be awhile before I could see the two schools scheduling each other, simply because Butler's in the Big East now so they see themselves as a major conference program, yet every other program in the state still sees them as the team from the Horizon League
- Perception: It is perceived by the Butler faithful, and the rest of "the basketball nation", that Butler consistently plays at a high major level, they back this perception up every year by beating top 50 level BCS teams. How we perceive ourselves vs Butler is completely different than what "the basketball nation" sees when comparing Butler and Valpo.
- Expectations: I believe that people and teams tend to gravitate towards the level of expectation. Butler is now always expected to be a top 50 and higher level team and in many instances they play like it against much larger schools. With few exceptions this has not been the expectation for Valpo.
- Confidence: Confidence enhances performance and is influenced by perception and expectations. Butler has 'IT" and Valpo needs "IT'.
I understand why the Butler faithful look down their noses at us, they are not alone, there is no way the casual basketball fan would put Butler and VU on the same level. All of this can turn on this year for Valpo and when it does then we can tell Butler and Notre Dame where to stick it. There is no doubt in my mind that this years team will be competitive on a national level. There is no doubt in my mind that this team is better than the current Butler squad. I
expect us to win games against any and all competition. The time of moral victories and close calls is over. When it happens we need to capitalize on it.
I've lived in Indy for 20 years and have become a casual Butler fan during that time. (Heresy around here, I know.) I went to Miami of Ohio, so I needed someone to root for. My daughter will be a freshman at VU in 2 weeks, so I haven't paid a whole lot of attention to Valpo until last season when it became clear that Valpo was the right school for her.
Last year, I watched a lot of Valpo games and attended a lot of Butler games. I agree with others that Valpo would beat Butler this year. Butler is a good team and has become a consistently nationally relevant team, but right now they don't have the height and depth that Valpo does.
I've learned what you all know and the rest of the country will see soon - this year's Valpo team could be REALLY special.
P.S. From my jaded perspective, many of the issues that Valpo faces are similar to what Miami OH faces. They are both academic leaders in their conferences, fans would like to have better facilities (ironically, many Miami fans would love an intimate facility like the ARC), nobody wants to play them on their home court, and fans expect the teams to be competitive every year. But at least Valpo has won lately and is likely to win in the future.
Quote from: Valpo Dad on August 07, 2015, 12:10:07 PM
I've lived in Indy for 20 years and have become a casual Butler fan during that time. (Heresy around here, I know.) I went to Miami of Ohio, so I needed someone to root for. My daughter will be a freshman at VU in 2 weeks, so I haven't paid a whole lot of attention to Valpo until last season when it became clear that Valpo was the right school for her.
Last year, I watched a lot of Valpo games and attended a lot of Butler games. I agree with others that Valpo would beat Butler this year. Butler is a good team and has become a consistently nationally relevant team, but right now they don't have the height and depth that Valpo does.
I've learned what you all know and the rest of the country will see soon - this year's Valpo team could be REALLY special.
P.S. From my jaded perspective, many of the issues that Valpo faces are similar to what Miami OH faces. They are both academic leaders in their conferences, fans would like to have better facilities (ironically, many Miami fans would love an intimate facility like the ARC), nobody wants to play them on their home court, and fans expect the teams to be competitive every year. But at least Valpo has won lately and is likely to win in the future.
Very interesting. Glad to have you join the conversation. :thumbsup:
Quote from: Valpo Dad on August 07, 2015, 12:10:07 PM
I've lived in Indy for 20 years and have become a casual Butler fan during that time. (Heresy around here, I know.) I went to Miami of Ohio, so I needed someone to root for. My daughter will be a freshman at VU in 2 weeks, so I haven't paid a whole lot of attention to Valpo until last season when it became clear that Valpo was the right school for her.
Last year, I watched a lot of Valpo games and attended a lot of Butler games. I agree with others that Valpo would beat Butler this year. Butler is a good team and has become a consistently nationally relevant team, but right now they don't have the height and depth that Valpo does.
I've learned what you all know and the rest of the country will see soon - this year's Valpo team could be REALLY special.
P.S. From my jaded perspective, many of the issues that Valpo faces are similar to what Miami OH faces. They are both academic leaders in their conferences, fans would like to have better facilities (ironically, many Miami fans would love an intimate facility like the ARC), nobody wants to play them on their home court, and fans expect the teams to be competitive every year. But at least Valpo has won lately and is likely to win in the future.
Welcome to the family!
I know this won't go over great on here either, but I admire Butler for what they have accomplished. I
hated them when we went at it in all of the sports, especially basketball, but I think it is great to see smaller schools take down the big boys. If Butler is playing a BCS school then I am rooting for them. I don't particularly like the attitude of many of their posters, but we're not always choir boys on here when it comes to touting VU's accomplishments. Had some great conversations about Butler, VU and Brad Stevens with Ron Nored when he was here in Fort Wayne visiting with the Maine Red Claws, as far as I could tell Ron was a very nice young man who represented his university very well.
Quote from: valpotx on August 06, 2015, 12:32:45 PM
We don't tout the 4 straight wins against Butler because that 2011-2012 was a fantastic Butler team. We tout the wins because most/many of us despise Butler, and love every win we get against them in any sport! I saw a car with a Butler license plate holder on my way home from work the other day, got them to roll down their window, and yelled 'Butler sucks, go Valpo' :lol:. I cringe every time I see Pat Neshek (Houston Astros, Butler alum) pitch against the Texas Rangers, just hoping that we drill long-ball after long-ball off of him. I respect, but despise Butler :).
Well.................I, I, I...............there are truly no words in my vocabulary for how much, as valpotx put it, as to how much I despise..................those guys.
(http://rlv.zcache.com/buck_futler_t_shirts-raf482dc581904e07b5a58882c2dc2473_vjfy5_1024.jpg)
(http://rlv.zcache.com/buck_futler_t_shirts-raf482dc581904e07b5a58882c2dc2473_vj75e_1200.jpg?view_padding=%5B0.452380952380952%2C0%2C0.452380952380952%2C0%5D)
Their history and disrespect for the UIndy Greyhounds is fairly well documented too.
Anyone know - is the game televised or steamed Sunday ?
Quote from: Smj on August 08, 2015, 05:45:04 PM
Anyone know - is the game televised or steamed Sunday ?
[/quote
Well, it is in Canada, not Texas. I doubt it will be steamed!! ;) Aaron said that they will be checking at each site to see if streaming is possible. Keep checking the athletic site or the twitter site.
Quote from: Smj on August 08, 2015, 05:45:04 PM
Anyone know - is the game televised or steamed Sunday ?
If Valpo gets hot it could be very steamy!
Quote from: wh on August 06, 2015, 03:10:47 PMimagine a 2017-18 team anchored by 7-1 (and still growing) junior center Derrik Smits and 4 highly talented, battle-tested seniors in David Skara, Tevonn Walker, Lexus Williams and Max Joseph (and who knows who else by then).
Wow! Last November you were kiddingly lecturing me over my 15-16 season speculation and now you are reaching forward a full 27 months!
The whole expectations mentality has changed under Bryce. I can imagine March post season team meetings held by both Gary Waters at CSU and Bryce at Valpo. At CSU the question was to find out if anybody was willing to stay while Bryce wanted to know if anybody wanted to leave. I can imagine both questions being answered with dead silence. ;) It is apparent that the entire team and staff knew their full potential and nobody was willing to bail. I am not sure if anybody will be willing to redshirt either! You have to love that type of attitude!
Lets play some basketball!
I'm really interested to see how Lexus Williams does this year. He's supposed to play our first game correct? Hammink is out the first two. Also when is the schedule supposed to come out? It's usually been around this time the last couple years?
Quote from: Valpofan00 on August 10, 2015, 12:58:57 PM
I'm really interested to see how Lexus Williams does this year. He's supposed to play our first game correct? Hammink is out the first two. Also when is the schedule supposed to come out? It's usually been around this time the last couple years?
Please clarify. Thanks!
Quote from: wh on August 10, 2015, 04:19:23 PM
Quote from: Valpofan00 on August 10, 2015, 12:58:57 PM
I'm really interested to see how Lexus Williams does this year. He's supposed to play our first game correct? Hammink is out the first two. Also when is the schedule supposed to come out? It's usually been around this time the last couple years?
Please clarify. Thanks!
He got suspended the first 2 games for drinking right?
Quote from: Valpofan00 on August 10, 2015, 04:37:20 PM
Quote from: wh on August 10, 2015, 04:19:23 PM
Quote from: Valpofan00 on August 10, 2015, 12:58:57 PM
I'm really interested to see how Lexus Williams does this year. He's supposed to play our first game correct? Hammink is out the first two. Also when is the schedule supposed to come out? It's usually been around this time the last couple years?
Please clarify. Thanks!
He got suspended the first 2 games for drinking right?
Good memory. I forgot all about that. Thanks.
Quote from: wh on August 10, 2015, 04:45:13 PM
Quote from: Valpofan00 on August 10, 2015, 04:37:20 PM
Quote from: wh on August 10, 2015, 04:19:23 PM
Quote from: Valpofan00 on August 10, 2015, 12:58:57 PM
I'm really interested to see how Lexus Williams does this year. He's supposed to play our first game correct? Hammink is out the first two. Also when is the schedule supposed to come out? It's usually been around this time the last couple years?
Please clarify. Thanks!
He got suspended the first 2 games for drinking right?
Good memory. I forgot all about that. Thanks.
I'm sure Shane Hammink will never forget the house on Lind Lane as will several other Valpo student athletes.
Was it games in the Canada tour, or was it two regular season games? I mean why suspend him for two games that don't mean anything to the standings, instead of two games that matter towards getting into the NCAA tournament.
Quote from: valporun on August 12, 2015, 12:52:04 PM
Was it games in the Canada tour, or was it two regular season games? I mean why suspend him for two games that don't mean anything to the standings, instead of two games that matter towards getting into the NCAA tournament.
He's going to miss the first 2 games of the season. Since the Canada tour doesn't count towards anything and they aren't even NCAA sanctioned games they can't use that as his suspension.
I would love to be able to say he'll miss the X game and Y game. When are we getting the schedule...
Comments from MLB on the 2015-16 schedule in his August Crusader Report:
The 2015-16 men's basketball schedule is nearly complete and as in years past it has proven to be one of the most difficult projects to complete. We had several priorities for our upcoming schedule.
>> To gain admittance to an early season "multi-team event" (MTE) that would give us the opportunity to play one or more Power 5 programs on a neutral floor. This will NOT happen in 2015-16, however as part of our deal to host an MTE composed of mid-majors at the ARC this year, we will be admitted to a desirable neutral site MTE in 2016-17.
>> To play home and home series with top caliber mid-majors from conferences with higher RPIs than the Horizon League. Specifically we focused on the Missouri Valley Conference and the Atlantic 10. We have signed deals with Rhode Island (start on the road), Missouri State (start at home) and Indiana State (start on the road). In addition as part of the Horizon League's deal to admit Belmont as an associate member for men's soccer we will play them twice this year.
>> Finally, we have looked to a couple of in-state match ups. We will finish a home and home series with IPFW at the ARC and will start a new home and home series on the road at Ball State. Also, we will have one road "guarantee" game at Oregon.
Overall this year's schedule should be significantly tougher than the one faced by last year's team, and it includes a number of top level mid-majors at home.
So we can start to put together some games
| Team | '15 RPI | '15 KenPom |
| @Oregon * | 27 | 38 |
| @Rhode Island | 61 | 56 |
| vs. Belmont * | 100 | 135 |
| @ Belmont * | 100 | 135 |
| @Indiana St. | 177 | 172 |
| vs. IPFW | 215 | 169 |
| vs. Missouri St. | 237 | 262 |
| @Ball St. | 289 | 277 |
* - 2014 NCAA Tournament Team
While the 150 RPI average isn't much different than what our schedule was last season, so far we have 3 games vs. tournament teams, 4 games vs. RPI top 100 and some decent mid-major games. I'm totally fine with how this looks so far. Add in 3 games vs. teams in the 150-175 range and I think we're in business.
Its pretty obvious that a greater effort is being put forward this year in the area of OOC scheduling. I'm looking forward to seeing the finished product.
Quote from: VULB#62 on August 14, 2015, 01:24:38 PM>> To gain admittance to an early season "multi-team event" (MTE) that would give us the opportunity to play one or more Power 5 programs on a neutral floor. This will NOT happen in 2015-16, however as part of our deal to host an MTE composed of mid-majors at the ARC this year, we will be admitted to a desirable neutral site MTE in 2016-17.
Not to lay blame but should we have considered hosting a MTE last year in anticipation for 15-16?
Quote from: VULB#62 on August 14, 2015, 01:24:38 PMAlso, we will have one road "guarantee" game at Oregon.
Does this mean that Oregon St will be part of a tournament? Might we meet another quality opponent either at Oregon St or on the coast?
Quote from: VULB#62 on August 14, 2015, 01:24:38 PMOverall this year's schedule should be significantly tougher than the one faced by last year's team, and it includes a number of top level mid-majors at home.
Much would seem to ride on the mid-majors chosen to show at the ARC for the MTE. Would love to see a very strong field.
ESPN announces Valpo's game at Rhode Island is part of the Tip-Off Marathon Nov. 17th and will be played at 10am ET (9am CT) on ESPN2: http://espnmediazone.com/us/press-releases/2015/08/16-games-featured-espns-eighth-annual-college-hoops-tip-off-marathon/ (http://espnmediazone.com/us/press-releases/2015/08/16-games-featured-espns-eighth-annual-college-hoops-tip-off-marathon/)
Posted this shortly before Canada trip about Valparaiso's non-conference success (or lack thereof) -- http://www.nwitimes.com/blogs/sports/valparaiso-university/sizing-up-valparaiso-s-non-conference-history/article_c9dd6554-3d2f-11e5-9079-8ff4a4f74c78.html (http://www.nwitimes.com/blogs/sports/valparaiso-university/sizing-up-valparaiso-s-non-conference-history/article_c9dd6554-3d2f-11e5-9079-8ff4a4f74c78.html)
Quote from: Pgmado on August 18, 2015, 10:26:55 AM
Posted this shortly before Canada trip about Valparaiso's non-conference success (or lack thereof) -- http://www.nwitimes.com/blogs/sports/valparaiso-university/sizing-up-valparaiso-s-non-conference-history/article_c9dd6554-3d2f-11e5-9079-8ff4a4f74c78.html (http://www.nwitimes.com/blogs/sports/valparaiso-university/sizing-up-valparaiso-s-non-conference-history/article_c9dd6554-3d2f-11e5-9079-8ff4a4f74c78.html)
This is excellent work Paul! Thanks
The conference as a whole has a winning percentage of 8.5% against top 50 teams and 30.9% against 51-100 opponents. That's abysmal for the conference. Some of it has to do with Oakland's past scheduling of unwinnable games but if you take out their share of the losses we are still stuck with 12 wins in 122 tries or 9.8%. Hell Oakland is at least smart enough to get 7 wins and be above league average with their 51-100 scheduling.
These losses are what keeps our league RPI down and keeps the Horizon from putting forward a legitimate at large team. Detroit in '12, Green Bay in '13, and us in '14 (had we lost the tourney) all had decent enough RPIs and really good records. Green Bay was talked about as a snub but no one really believed that. I think we would have been in some consideration but for the most part we would have been a similar afterthought like Detroit.
Let's hope our conference 1. Schedules smarter for their team's actual ability and 2. Wins more than 30% of the top 100 games we play this season.
Obviously very few mid-majors get at-large bids. You have to be the best of the best, basically have one loss in the OOC maybe one or at most two losses in league play, and lose the championship. Then I'd say we should be an at-large team. Margin for error is minuscule when hoping for an at large; even when you do everything right, you still might not be good enough in the eyes of the selection committee.
Not even thinking about an at large. Sure we go into the conference final with one loss and lose on a shot at the buzzer then maybe we have a shot. But even then I doubt it. What concerns me more is the way we usually seem to gag when we play a team, any team, from a power conference. Most of those losses weren't even close. Last year's Maryland game gave me hope for this year. But ultimately the team has to break through early and win some of these games to prove to everyone that they can win, not just compete. We have to take advantage of the opportunities we have as those opportunities will always be limited. Face it many many teams from power conferences that we could beat won't play us because they don't gain enough from beating us as they risk if they should lose.
In years past we just couldn't stand up athletically to power conference teams. This year we're much closer. If we play consistently tough defense and don't give away points by poor free throw shooting this could be the year. But the proof is in putting wins on the board, not just competitive losses.
My name is Mark and I have been a University of Connecticut men's basketball season ticket holder for 25 years. In addition to my love of UConn hoops I follow college basketball year round and have been fortunate enough to attend several Final4's. My dad is a retired coach. I believe this Valpo team barring injury is ready to become the darlings of college basketball this year. In my opinion Valpo will makes a serious run at the Final4. The chalk this year is a bit down. This Valpo team is special and I look forward to rooting for your team this year and enjoying some of the fun with you guys.
I hope you take BCS schools to the woodshed in the tournament and make the E8.
UConnHoops is my newest favorite member of this fan forum!
Paul
Welcome to UConnHoops, and thanks for the kind words, but it's way too early for a "serious run at the final 4" talk. We could lose on a last second shot in the conference tourney as nkvu described and completely miss the NCAAs. I agree this is a special team, but that's putting the cart before the horse.
That said I also hope we take some BCS schools to the proverbial woodshed and make it to the elite 8. I wouldn't mind if UConn was one of those ;)
Oh and I would skip a week or two after a Valpo loss. We get a little down on ourselves. Something about being so close to Chicago gives us the sky is falling mentality that Cubs and Sox fans have and we think the season is over after a loss, take a look last season after a January 4th loss to Oakland or the February 25th loss to Detroit.
Uhm... guys, the location of two of our three conference losses last year are within a 30 minute drive of the conference championship site... :o
Quote from: nkvu on August 18, 2015, 12:03:23 PM
Not even thinking about an at large. Sure we go into the conference final with one loss and lose on a shot at the buzzer then maybe we have a shot. But even then I doubt it. What concerns me more is the way we usually seem to gag when we play a team, any team, from a power conference. Most of those losses weren't even close. Last year's Maryland game gave me hope for this year. But ultimately the team has to break through early and win some of these games to prove to everyone that they can win, not just compete. We have to take advantage of the opportunities we have as those opportunities will always be limited. Face it many many teams from power conferences that we could beat won't play us because they don't gain enough from beating us as they risk if they should lose.
In years past we just couldn't stand up athletically to power conference teams. This year we're much closer. If we play consistently tough defense and don't give away points by poor free throw shooting this could be the year. But the proof is in putting wins on the board, not just competitive losses.
Anyway to cut it, this will be our best chance. Next year (we obviously don't know about recruits at this point), all we gain is another year of experience while we lose E, Vashil, Carter and Darien. I doubt next year's team will be as good as this years. If we are going to make a run it is here and now.
Quote from: UConnHoops on August 18, 2015, 01:16:45 PM
My name is Mark and I have been a University of Connecticut men's basketball season ticket holder for 25 years. In addition to my love of UConn hoops I follow college basketball year round and have been fortunate enough to attend several Final4's. My dad is a retired coach. I believe this Valpo team barring injury is ready to become the darlings of college basketball this year. In my opinion Valpo will makes a serious run at the Final4. The chalk this year is a bit down. This Valpo team is special and I look forward to rooting for your team this year and enjoying some of the fun with you guys.
I hope you take BCS schools to the woodshed in the tournament and make the E8.
You sure are pumping up the troops. I really hope you are correct and our fandom does not have a huge let down in the HL tourney. We are overlooking a lot of steps here.
Quote from: UConnHoops on August 18, 2015, 01:16:45 PM
My name is Mark and I have been a University of Connecticut men's basketball season ticket holder for 25 years. In addition to my love of UConn hoops I follow college basketball year round and have been fortunate enough to attend several Final4's. My dad is a retired coach. I believe this Valpo team barring injury is ready to become the darlings of college basketball this year. In my opinion Valpo will makes a serious run at the Final4. The chalk this year is a bit down. This Valpo team is special and I look forward to rooting for your team this year and enjoying some of the fun with you guys.
I hope you take BCS schools to the woodshed in the tournament and make the E8.
Welcome to the forum from a fellow New Englander (since transplanted to WI). I think, based on our past performances that a run at the
"Final32" would be our first hope. In our last 2 shots at it we haven't gotten past the round of 64. Once over that hurdle, and the confidence it breeds, it'll be interesting.
Quote from: Pgmado on August 18, 2015, 10:26:55 AM
Posted this shortly before Canada trip about Valparaiso's non-conference success (or lack thereof) -- http://www.nwitimes.com/blogs/sports/valparaiso-university/sizing-up-valparaiso-s-non-conference-history/article_c9dd6554-3d2f-11e5-9079-8ff4a4f74c78.html (http://www.nwitimes.com/blogs/sports/valparaiso-university/sizing-up-valparaiso-s-non-conference-history/article_c9dd6554-3d2f-11e5-9079-8ff4a4f74c78.html)
Thanks. It might be nice to also know how that 'other' Horizon team from Indiana did in the years that they were still in the Horizon. My memory says they did well in OOC, even before the final4 runs. The times when the Horizon was able to get ad at-large berth, I'm sure that the team getting the at-large berth was also a top 35 (or so) team in the rankings.
I believe that this 2015-16 team has the potential to become a top 35 team, and if so would deserve an at-large look by the committee if we failed to win the Horizon tournament. Using realtimerpi, we really need to limit our ? and ?? losses. Beat the teams we are supposed to beat, and win an occasional other game, especially in the OOC.
Quote from: covufan on August 18, 2015, 03:36:44 PM
I believe that this 2015-16 team has the potential to become a top 35 team, and if so would deserve an at-large look by the committee if we failed to win the Horizon tournament. Using realtimerpi, we really need to limit our ? and ?? losses. Beat the teams we are supposed to beat, and win an occasional other game, especially in the OOC.
I agree that we're a possible top 35 team, but that doesn't guarentee an at large bid. We'd need to be really good OOC and get a couple quality wins with Oregon, Oregon St. and ISU having good seasons.
Also don't use RealTimeRPI, they are a terrible site.
Would you rather be Green Bay, and have beaten a power conference team the past two years, but not have made the tournament since 1996... Or Valpo, a team that's actually made the tournament twice in the past 3 years?
Honestly I think some of you would rather be Green Bay.
Personally, I want both. Going to the tournament is great don't get me wrong. The thing is any low or mid major who can get hot and win their conference tournament gets to go and yes once in a while they can come out of nowhere and win a game there. But a mid major that can regularly compete with and even beat power conference teams more often than once in a blue moon can build a body of work that will put them in the conversation for at least at large consideration, and when they get there do some damage. Isn't that what Butler did? Why not hope for and strive for that? I'm a fan. I want it all.
Am I alone in thinking that the Rhode Island game (which I am assuming is the season opener) is awfully important to this team, for a number of reasons?
Paul
Quote from: 78crusader on August 18, 2015, 07:50:56 PMAm I alone in thinking that the Rhode Island game (which I am assuming is the season opener) is awfully important to this team, for a number of reasons?
No but with the Nov 17 play date they could actually be our 3'rd D-1 opponent. So while Rhode Island is important they will not be make or break unless the remainder of our unknown OOC schedule turns out to be at-large bid irrelevant (trash). Yes win or lose we need to play extremely well to mentally prepare for the Oregon swing because they will likely be our biggest test prior to our trip west.
Who else is getting nervous about our final OOC schedule? This shortage of named quality opponents is unsettling. I don't want to be excluded from at large conversations just because nobody is willing to play us.
Quote from: 78crusader on August 18, 2015, 07:50:56 PM
Am I alone in thinking that the Rhode Island game (which I am assuming is the season opener) is awfully important to this team, for a number of reasons?
Paul
Valpo is going to open at home on Nov. 13 against IPFW and then likely play UCF at home on Nov. 15. Rhode Island will be third game of the year.
Quote from: Pgmado on August 19, 2015, 11:48:53 AM
Quote from: 78crusader on August 18, 2015, 07:50:56 PM
Am I alone in thinking that the Rhode Island game (which I am assuming is the season opener) is awfully important to this team, for a number of reasons?
Paul
Valpo is going to open at home on Nov. 13 against IPFW and then likely play UCF at home on Nov. 15. Rhode Island will be third game of the year.
And just to reiterate from another string: From BleacherReport, URI is ranked #7 of the small ball teams that WH posted about earlier. Oregon is #8. (Butler BTW is #6). So URI is in respectable company. We will need to play very good to beat them on the road .............at 10AM EST ............on a Tuesday. ::)
BTW We are their second 2015 game (they open against American U. on the 13th at home it looks like).
From the Milw board:
BBFran
Clay Tucker Fan Club
16 hours ago
Quote
Hot damn! Our presumptive league favorite gets to play AT a second division A10 school.
At 10 am.
On a Tuesday.
I mean really, does it get any more exciting than that? I just hope the Valpi sports bars are stocking enough...coffee.
Would one of our Milw friends care to inform BBFran that Rhode Island is the A-10's "presumptive league favorite?" ;)
Quote from: wh on August 19, 2015, 12:27:50 PM
From the Milw board:
BBFran
Clay Tucker Fan Club
16 hours ago
Quote
Hot damn! Our presumptive league favorite gets to play AT a second division A10 school.
At 10 am.
On a Tuesday.
I mean really, does it get any more exciting than that? I just hope the Valpi sports bars are stocking enough...coffee.
Would someone care to inform BBFran that Rhode Island is the A-10's "presumptive league favorite?" ;)
You'd think fans of mid major teams would have a little bit of both knowledge and respect for other mid major teams. But at least he's part of the 1% of students there that know UWM has a D1 basketball team.
Also what the heck is the second division A10? Does he think there's relegation or something?
Just for emphasis, these are the 2014-15 final A-10 standings.
TEAM A-10 RECORD Pct ALL RECORD Pct
Davidson 14-4 .778 24-8 .750
Dayton 13-5 .722 27-9 .750
Rhode Island 13-5 .722 23-10 .697
VCU 12-6 .667 26-10 .722
Richmond 12-6 .667 21-13 .618
George Washington 10-8 .556 22-13 .629
St. Bonaventure 10-8 .556 18-13 .581
Massachusetts 10-8 .556 17-15 .531
La Salle 8-10 .444 17-16 .515
Saint Joseph's 7-11 .389 13-18 .419
Duquesne 6-12 .333 12-19 .387
Fordham 4-14 .222 10-21 .323
George Mason 4-14 .222 9-22 .290
Saint Louis 3-15 .167 11-21 .344
URI went to the 2015 NIT post season
They also have Cleveland State on their 2015-16 schedule for a home game on 11/21 as part of the Cancun Challenge tournament
Anybody who thinks Valpo isn't taking advantage of our recent success hasn't seen this video and many others. The pressure is clearly on the players and the coaches unlike anything I can remember. All I can say is...GO VALPO!!!!!!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jNxlUzSeJSw (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jNxlUzSeJSw)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sTN9ml_uR2M (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sTN9ml_uR2M)
Nickerson is back also correct? Both Fernandez and Nickerson? How was the roster spot resolved? I may have missed that if posted here. Thanks.
We have only one incoming freshman (Derrik Smits) to take the scholarship vacated by Clay Yeo last year. The other commit (Daniel Relevao) ended up at George Mason University.
Thanks VPF for the clarification on Relevao. I appreciate the responses to my posts by all Valpo fans. Great board!!!!!!!!!!
Ok...so here is my next question. Breaking down the Horizon League for 2015-16 a little bit. Oakland lost Corey Petros (14.3 ppg) and Williams (10.0 ppg). They return one of the best players in the league Felder. Green Bay loses Sykes, Mays & McKinnie (their 2 top scorers @ around 30 ppg). GB returns Love and Fause.
Cleveland State lost their 2 best players in Lewis (Ville) and Grady (WSU). Milwaukee loses their top scorer McWharter but returns everyone else.
Detroit goes into next year without Howard and Kearneyto the tune of around 17.5 ppg.
Which team in every ones opinion poses the biggest threat to a regular season title and more importantly the conference tournament title (auto birth)?
Where is the Horizon League Tournament being held this upcoming season?
Quote from: UConnHoops on August 27, 2015, 02:04:40 PM
Thanks VPF for the clarification on Relevao. I appreciate the responses to my posts by all Valpo fans. Great board!!!!!!!!!!
Ok...so here is my next question. Breaking down the Horizon League for 2015-16 a little bit. Oakland lost Corey Petros (14.3 ppg) and Williams (10.0 ppg). They return one of the best players in the league Felder. Green Bay loses Sykes, Mays & McKinnie (their 2 top scorers @ around 30 ppg). GB returns Love and Fause.
Cleveland State lost their 2 best players in Lewis (Ville) and Grady (WSU). Milwaukee loses their top scorer McWharter but returns everyone else.
Detroit goes into next year without Howard and Kearneyto the tune of around 17.5 ppg.
Which team in every ones opinion poses the biggest threat to a regular season title and more importantly the conference tournament title (auto birth)?
Where is the Horizon League Tournament being held this upcoming season?
My guess is Milwaukee. They seem to think they will be very good also. Oakland thinks they will be good but the loss of Petros will be tough to cover. CSU will be bad as will YSU. Wright State is always a question mark. Green Bay will be OK but have lost a bunch, should be a rebuilding year. Detroit will be --Detroit. UIC is a bigger question mark with a new coach. Rebuilding at best.
The tournament is at The Joe in Detroit.
I think Oakland, Milwaukee and Wright State are in the conversation for second best team in the Horizon right now. We all knock Kampe for his scheduling, but what's lost in it all is he can coach. Same goes for Jeter and Donlon.
Wright State: I think they had everyone from their starting lineup miss significant time last year and they return one of the best shooters in the league in Benzinger. Losing Hopkins hurts a little, and while I always like Arceneau (probably for his name) he never seemed to get better.
Milwaukee: Stupid Tiby is back. The Joakim Noah of the Horizon League, I don't understand why he's good but he hustles and that seems to make him good. Along with Panoske and the Prahl twins they can actually match our size. But the skill level is significantly different. They don't have an Alec Peters, as much as Tiby would like to be him. Ugh I dislike Tiby.
Oakland: Felder is great. Jalen Hayes and Nick Daniels are going to be really good as well. They have no height to match us though so we should be able to pound them inside. But they will try to run us out of the gym, so even though we have a deep team we'll have to hope for a few days between our previous game and any game we play against Oakland.
Adding to GB's profile is that they are also breaking in a new coach.
Quote from: UConnHoops on August 27, 2015, 02:04:40 PM
Which team in every ones opinion poses the biggest threat to a regular season title and more importantly the conference tournament title (auto birth)?
No one.
Valpo returns 98% of minutes and 99% of their points scored for a team that won both the conference tournament and regular season title. Nobody poses a threat for the regular season title. It would take a major injury for Valpo to not win the regular season. The two teams behind Valpo last year have lost their best players, so the competition for the next best team has dropped significantly.
But anyone can be upset in the conference tournament. Green Bay had a clear path to the tournament with a victory over a friggen 1 seed and a pair of players later signed to NBA team, but they screwed it all up at home vs a below .500 team.
Truly any of these teams can upset Valpo and get to the dance.
1.) Milwaukee
2.) Oakland
3.) Wright State
4.) Detroit
5.) Cleveland State
I think this is the order of teams that have some sort of chance of knocking off Valpo and become the HL's Cinderella. Rob Jeter is a terrific coach, so is Donlon; every year it seems one of those two teams makes a run and comes out of nowhere. Kampe is a good coach, he does get into his own head quite often and over thinks certain situations; ie nobody on the FT line when Petros a 50% FT shooter is chucking up bricks. Detroit always seems to give Valpo fits and I think Waters style of play, low scoring and physical, can catch a team off guard and can win a 55-53 type game.
You guys seriously need to look at who Oakland has coming in. They only finished two games behind you and will be even better next year.
Two eligible transfers from Iowa State and one possibly from Texas.
If all of them keep their heads on straight, you will be challenged.
Quote from: motowntitan on August 27, 2015, 06:04:48 PMYou guys seriously need to look at who Oakland has coming in. They only finished two games behind you and will be even better next year. Two eligible transfers from Iowa State and one possibly from Texas. If all of them keep their heads on straight, you will be challenged.
Wow...I agree. The 2 transfers Walker and Gibson were 2 of the best players in their class out of Michigan if not mistaken. 1 of them I think Walker teamed up with Felder in high school. Plus with the conference tourney in Detroit that gives Oakland some juice. I think this league deserves an At-Large bid but the road to achieving that means having to win 2 out of 3 against RI, Oregon and Oregon State. 3 out of 4 if you play Belmont. That will be tough to say the least especially considering how good OSU is at home. Oregon State returns pretty much everyone and beat Arizona last year at home. I think they only lost a game or 2 at home all year.
hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm....
Quote from: motowntitan on August 27, 2015, 06:04:48 PMYou guys seriously need to look at who Oakland has coming in. They only finished two games behind you and will be even better next year.
Two eligible transfers from Iowa State and one possibly from Texas.
If all of them keep their heads on straight, you will be challenged.
If everything comes together this could easily be their best team ever and might sport a RPI in the 80-100 range. You just can never be certain with some of the project and recycled players that Kampe picks up. If they win a couple key games from their brutal OOC schedule then hold on to your hats! Who knows with a Kampe recruited and led team?
Quote from: UConnHoops on August 27, 2015, 06:57:59 PMI think this league deserves an At-Large bid but the road to achieving that means having to win 2 out of 3 against RI, Oregon and Oregon State. 3 out of 4 if you play Belmont. That will be tough to say the least especially considering how good OSU is at home. Oregon State returns pretty much everyone and beat Arizona last year at home. I think they only lost a game or 2 at home all year.
Yup! An at large bid quality OOC schedule has proven to be elusively unavailable. Its hard to schedule schools which have no desire for unnecessary OOC competition. So nobody plays us at the ARC, nobody plays us on a neutral floor and most don't want us anywhere near their home courts. Wouldn't be surprised if feelers weren't directed toward UConn also. This is the reality of our situation.
If we do not win the HL tournament and with maybe only 4 losses do not receive a bid then check back with us and we will really entertain you. ;)
Quote from: motowntitan on August 27, 2015, 06:04:48 PM
You guys seriously need to look at who Oakland has coming in. They only finished two games behind you and will be even better next year.
Two eligible transfers from Iowa State and one possibly from Texas.
If all of them keep their heads on straight, you will be challenged.
So who isn't "looking" at who they're bringing in? There's a huge difference between losing NO Key players on a team to losing two key players and replacing them with players who are highly regarded but not yet integrated into or proven in the rotation.
Quote from: classof2014 on August 27, 2015, 06:03:44 PM
Truly any of these teams can upset Valpo and get to the dance.
1.) Milwaukee
2.) Oakland
3.) Wright State
4.) Detroit
5.) Cleveland State
.
Bingo. Quote from: wh on August 27, 2015, 04:50:58 PM
Quote from: UConnHoops on August 27, 2015, 02:04:40 PM
Which team in every ones opinion poses the biggest threat to a regular season title and more importantly the conference tournament title (auto birth)?
No one.
Quote from: a3uge on August 27, 2015, 05:19:40 PM
Valpo returns 98% of minutes and 99% of their points scored for a team that won both the conference tournament and regular season title. Nobody poses a threat for the regular season title. It would take a major injury for Valpo to not win the regular season. The two teams behind Valpo last year have lost their best players, so the competition for the next best team has dropped significantly.
The latter two are way too overconfident as we know the Horizon League has been very balanced in years past and anything could happen. Yes, Valpo should be favored but assuming it's over before it starts leads to Kone-syndrome.
http://www.nwitimes.com/blogs/sports/valparaiso-university/moussa-gueye-and-mohamed-kone/article_ceb13240-bdd9-11e2-99a0-0019bb2963f4.html (http://www.nwitimes.com/blogs/sports/valparaiso-university/moussa-gueye-and-mohamed-kone/article_ceb13240-bdd9-11e2-99a0-0019bb2963f4.html)
Kone got off on the wrong foot with the coaching staff (but the right one with the media) when he said during a preseason interview that he was sure he was going to dominate the Mid-Continent Conference. Kone also got off on the wrong foot with several of his teammates, including Dan Oppland, during some now-infamous practice altercations.
The 2005-06 Valparaiso team ranks right up there with the 1997-98, 2001-02 and 2012-13 teams as having the most talent in school history. Oppland, Howard, Berdiel, Huff, Loyd, Colclasure and Miles were seven studs that should've won the Mid-Con with their eyes closed. Consider that freshman Brandon McPherson scored just three more points than Moussa Mbaye on the season and that freshman Jake Diebler hit less field goals than walk-on Jim Hooper and you get the idea of how loaded this team was. Throw in Kone and everything should've been great.
Kone's numbers (10.9 ppg, 8.0 rpg, 2.1 bpg) weren't the problem. I can still hear the sound of a Kone block. I'd never heard anything like it. The closest I've seen to a Kone dunk in the last 10 years comes whenever Vashil throws down a jam. Kone was a monster in the paint.
No, it wasn't his contributions on the court that killed the 2005-06 team, it was his presence off the court. Maybe it was his arrival. Maybe it was the first time a punch was thrown in practice. Maybe it was because he was a one-year rental. At some point, the chemistry of that team went off the rails and when it did, any chance at success went out the window.
If Mo Kone never shows up, I say the Crusaders win the Mid-Con running away that season.
My guess is that when the dust settles who we "brought in" will be as good as any team. We not only "bring back" all contributors but we "bring in" an LSU transfer, a 7'1" Indiana All Star and, a kid who was the starting point guard on a very solid Horizon League team and perhaps one who is the quickest player on the team. I think we will be fine. I'm glad these other teams will have great teams. Perhaps, just perhaps, The Horizon League will actually win some of these OOC games and get some great press. Let's hope so...
Quote from: bbtds on August 28, 2015, 07:06:19 AM
http://www.nwitimes.com/blogs/sports/valparaiso-university/moussa-gueye-and-mohamed-kone/article_ceb13240-bdd9-11e2-99a0-0019bb2963f4.html (http://www.nwitimes.com/blogs/sports/valparaiso-university/moussa-gueye-and-mohamed-kone/article_ceb13240-bdd9-11e2-99a0-0019bb2963f4.html)
Kone got off on the wrong foot with the coaching staff (but the right one with the media) when he said during a preseason interview that he was sure he was going to dominate the Mid-Continent Conference. Kone also got off on the wrong foot with several of his teammates, including Dan Oppland, during some now-infamous practice altercations.
The 2005-06 Valparaiso team ranks right up there with the 1997-98, 2001-02 and 2012-13 teams as having the most talent in school history. Oppland, Howard, Berdiel, Huff, Loyd, Colclasure and Miles were seven studs that should've won the Mid-Con with their eyes closed. Consider that freshman Brandon McPherson scored just three more points than Moussa Mbaye on the season and that freshman Jake Diebler hit less field goals than walk-on Jim Hooper and you get the idea of how loaded this team was. Throw in Kone and everything should've been great.
Kone's numbers (10.9 ppg, 8.0 rpg, 2.1 bpg) weren't the problem. I can still hear the sound of a Kone block. I'd never heard anything like it. The closest I've seen to a Kone dunk in the last 10 years comes whenever Vashil throws down a jam. Kone was a monster in the paint.
No, it wasn't his contributions on the court that killed the 2005-06 team, it was his presence off the court. Maybe it was his arrival. Maybe it was the first time a punch was thrown in practice. Maybe it was because he was a one-year rental. At some point, the chemistry of that team went off the rails and when it did, any chance at success went out the window.
If Mo Kone never shows up, I say the Crusaders win the Mid-Con running away that season.
So as long as Smits or Hammink don't start throwing punches I think we should be good. Considering Hammink was here last season and seemed to get a long with the players on the team (he and Jubril were at an infamous party together last season), and Smits from everything I've seen is an extremely high caliber person we shouldn't have that problem.
Quote from: vu72 on August 28, 2015, 07:36:59 AM
My guess is that when the dust settles who we "brought in" will be as good as any team. We not only "bring back" all contributors but we "bring in" an LSU transfer, a 7'1" Indiana All Star and, a kid who was the starting point guard on a very solid Horizon League team and perhaps one who is the quickest player on the team. I think we will be fine. I'm glad these other teams will have great teams. Perhaps, just perhaps, The Horizon League will actually win some of these OOC games and get some great press. Let's hope so...
Um ......so we are bringing Lexus "in" -- not "back," right? I suppose if Shane had to sit out last year by rule and is being brought "in" and Lexus had to sit out by medical necessity then that could be "in" too :-\
Quote from: VULB#62 on August 28, 2015, 10:49:32 AM
Quote from: vu72 on August 28, 2015, 07:36:59 AM
My guess is that when the dust settles who we "brought in" will be as good as any team. We not only "bring back" all contributors but we "bring in" an LSU transfer, a 7'1" Indiana All Star and, a kid who was the starting point guard on a very solid Horizon League team and perhaps one who is the quickest player on the team. I think we will be fine. I'm glad these other teams will have great teams. Perhaps, just perhaps, The Horizon League will actually win some of these OOC games and get some great press. Let's hope so...
Um ......so we are bringing Lexus "in" -- not "back," right? I suppose if Shane had to sit out last year by rule and is being brought "in" and Lexus had to sit out by medical necessity then that could be "in" too :-\
My point is only that we are "adding" these guys to a team that is loaded in the same way as the other teams are "adding" players. If they couldn't play last year then, by definition, they are additions. ;D
Yeah, I know. I was just being a bit picky. BTW, speaking of Lexus, we have a load of experience, speed and athleticism in our 3 sophomore guards that portends well for this and the next two years. This is gonna a be a nice run.
Oakland is by far the top threat to Valpo. By far.
Quote from: Pgmado on August 28, 2015, 01:30:33 PMOakland is by far the top threat to Valpo. By far.
I over looked Oakland when researching the conference. The fact that the Horizon Tournament has a new format and will be in Detroit helps Oakland. Valpo is the team to beat though. Hopefully they get a shot at some of the teams that may not want to play them in the NCAA Tournament.
Oakland lost over 40% of their roster from last year, so there's going to be a bunch of guys playing together for the first time. They lost two of their top three players that lead in points and minutes. It's a similar place Valpo was in last year, I guess. I just hope they can finish above .500 this year.
Im always wrong about preseason predictions, but I think UWM will finish 2nd or 3rd and UIC might surprise a few with an actual coach. Oakland should finish 2nd or 3rd.
Quote from: a3uge on August 28, 2015, 04:09:05 PMIm always wrong about preseason predictions, but I think UWM will finish 2nd or 3rd and UIC might surprise a few with an actual coach. Oakland should finish 2nd or 3rd.
I agree that UIC should be on the uptrend and that UWM will be very competitive but if Oakland finishes any lower than second it will be their own fault.
Quote from: Pgmado on August 28, 2015, 01:30:33 PM
Oakland is by far the top threat to Valpo. By far.
Oakland will not win the HL until they...
...stop playing their key players so many minutes. As good as they were last year, they flat out ran out of gas at the end of the season, losing 5 of their last 9 games including their last 3.
...start playing as hard on the defensive end as they do on offense. It took us 4 or 5 years in the HL to learn that you have to punish the other team defensively as much or more than they do you. Oakland isn't there yet.
...quit living and dying on the perimeter. Last year they were 1st in 3-pt. attempts/game and 7th in 2-pt. attempts.
...start strategically using time outs to stop huge momentum swings. Last year they lost at least 1 regular season conference game for this reason and worse let the UIC tournament game get completely out of hand before calling a time out. Result - 1 and done.
...line up their players along the FT line on Oakland FT attempts. If they get just 1 offensive put back or offensive rebound on a missed FT, it conceivably could be the 1 play that makes the difference in the game. If there's any other team in college basketball that does this, I've never seen it.
These shortcomings all stem from Kampe's in-game coaching philosophy. IMO as good a recruiter as he is (and he's very good), he is no more than an average game coach. That said, the only way Oakland will get to the promised land is if they clearly out recruit the rest of the league. That is not the case this year with the talent and experience Valpo has.
Quote from: UConnHoops on August 28, 2015, 03:49:24 PMI over looked Oakland when researching the conference. The fact that the Horizon Tournament has a new format and will be in Detroit helps Oakland. Valpo is the team to beat though. Hopefully they get a shot at some of the teams that may not want to play them in the NCAA Tournament.
Thank you.
In no particular order (except that Butler deserves the top spot) we would like to line up those Bulldogs, Notre Whatever just 40 minutes away, the Purdue- down the road a piece- Boilermakers and if Northwestern or DePaul were ever good enough to make the tournament we would like to meet up with them someday as well. Wait! Did I forget the Hoosiers?
Oakland is a threat to Valpo, in the form of a tournament upset. They are perfectly capable of beating anyone because of the uptempo style they play. In the HL that uptempo and gimicky style Kampe runs just won't work. He's an okay coach that thinks out of the box, some things work while most don't. Don't understand basically going with a six player lineup. He has some good players and brought in some decent transfers. How often do transfers from a bigger program to a smaller work out. If they had B1G, Big 12, SEC, talent they most likely would've remained with the team they were on or if they transferred gone to a similar level team, not dropping to the level of an Oakland. Will there two recruits have success, probably, but will they tear up the HL and put Oakland over the edge? Not a chance.
If Oakland wants to consistently challenge for the HL crown Kampe needs to completely change his style of coaching. It's almost like he still coaches like Oakland is a DII program. If he doesn't change his style to a more typical D1 program Oakland will be sporadic from year-to-year. Oakland will be good next year but it's going to be more of the same. They will be a good team because they have talent but they won't win the tournament. They are capable of upsetting Valpo and are the most likely team in my mind to do so but they aren't a true contender.
If Oakland wants to become what Valpo is; Kampe needs to change or Kampe needs to go.
I disagree with you guys. If we make the conference tournament final -- and we should -- then I think we will play Oakland, and it will be a 5-point game either way. Oakland always plays VU tough. Their games against VU are the ones they circle on their calendar. We will get their best effort, you can count on that.
Paul
Quote from: 78crusader on August 29, 2015, 10:42:26 AM
I disagree with you guys. If we make the conference tournament final -- and we should -- then I think we will play Oakland, and it will be a 5-point game either way. Oakland always plays VU tough. Their games against VU are the ones they circle on their calendar. We will get their best effort, you can count on that.
Paul
If it gets to a Valpo/Oakland final at the Joe in downtown Detroit Valpo will need to bring the fans and not worry about the unwarranted bad publicity that Detroit has gotten about their city.
I've consistently said that we have to beat a BCS-like team to gain national respectability. I'm beginning to think that this team can do it this season against a certain team out west. Topping URI would be icing on the cake. We have to come in with an attitude. In the past, those sorts of "big games" seemed to intimidate us (with the exception of our Maryland game last year). No more intimidation on our part...unless it's intimidating the competition.
Quote from: motowntitan on August 27, 2015, 06:04:48 PMYou guys seriously need to look at who Oakland has coming in. They only finished two games behind you and will be even better next year. Two eligible transfers from Iowa State and one possibly from Texas. If all of them keep their heads on straight, you will be challenged.
There is no guarantee that because the Grizzlies have guys coming in from high majors that they will be more successful. Valpo has seen many times in the past that this is just a correction in the way that the player should have been recruited in the first place. It does leave a possibility that OU could be improved by their newcomers but until the HL sees how these newcomers play (and behave) in the HL they can not be counted on to sway their team one way or the other. Kampe's record is not exactly perfect in this area but then nobody's is in the HL.
More schedule details forthcoming this week: the Horizon League ESPN television schedule will be released today, and the full men's Horizon League conference schedule will be announced tomorrow (women's schedule to be announced on Friday).
Looks like they moved the semifinal game to a Monday. Back to back games on a neutral site... What could go wrong?
Quote from: historyman on September 02, 2015, 06:19:17 AM
Quote from: motowntitan on August 27, 2015, 06:04:48 PMYou guys seriously need to look at who Oakland has coming in. They only finished two games behind you and will be even better next year. Two eligible transfers from Iowa State and one possibly from Texas. If all of them keep their heads on straight, you will be challenged.
There is no guarantee that because the Grizzlies have guys coming in from high majors that they will be more successful. Valpo has seen many times in the past that this is just a correction in the way that the player should have been recruited in the first place. It does leave a possibility that OU could be improved by their newcomers but until the HL sees how these newcomers play (and behave) in the HL they can not be counted on to sway their team one way or the other.
*Cough* Carlton Brundidge *Cough* *cough*
Usually there's a reason why somebody transfers "down" chances are they have talent but they probably won't tear up the HL. There really has only been two transfer downs that have turned out well LaVonte Dority from South Florida and Julius Mays from North Carolina State, which he then left for Kentucky.
Just looking at recent history for Valpo we've had some quality transfer "down" players: Ben Boggs from Virginia Tech, Will Bogan from Ole Miss, Moussa Gueye from Alabama, Bobby "No 3s" Capobianco from Indiana, and LaVonte Dority from South Florida; LVD was the only star player out of that group everyone else were quality players but not superstars by any means. Usually you have better luck with transfer "ups" from smaller programs or JUCO because they show the talent that they can play at the higher level.
This isn't even going into the quality of person they may be getting. Like many have said Oakland doesn't have a good history with bringing in good people.
I'd say Cory Johnson was a star who transferred down.
Quote from: classof2014 on September 03, 2015, 10:04:27 AMLike many have said Oakland doesn't have a good history with bringing in good people.
This is the year I hope they strike gold. If they turn out top notch it will be great for them, great for the HL, and potentially very helpful to us as well.
Quote from: vusupporter on September 03, 2015, 10:35:39 AM
I'd say Cory Johnson was a star who transferred down.
And then he forgot how to shoot and forgot what traveling was.
Quote from: vusupporter on September 03, 2015, 10:35:39 AM
I'd say Cory Johnson was a star who transferred down.
Cory did play better his Junior year, but still averaged 5.1 RPG and 14.85 PPG over his career, I think you would call that a very successful transfer down. I think we would be very happy if Shane Hammink approaches those numbers.
Speaking of Shane, I hope that when the final schedule is released, the first two games are not against iron teams and that we can survive them without Shane and Jubril.
Quote from: VULB#62 on September 03, 2015, 02:14:35 PM
Speaking of Shane, I hope that when the final schedule is released, the first two games are not against iron teams and that we can survive them without Shane and Jubril.
I may be wrong but I think Jubril served his timeouts last year.
Whew! You're right.
A web-site called College Sports Madness has predicted that Valpo will once again be a 13 seed, and they rank Valpo as 67th in the country, out of 144 teams ranked. It doesn't make sense to have the same seed as the previous year considering that the team is replacing Chadwick with Hammink and Smits. However, the 67 may be realistic. The good news is that the site ranks Valpo ahead of some traditionally solid programs.
Here's the link:
http://www.collegesportsmadness.com/mens-basketball/top-144-previews (http://www.collegesportsmadness.com/mens-basketball/top-144-previews)
Quote from: 4throwfan on September 08, 2015, 12:58:32 PM
A web-site called College Sports Madness has predicted that Valpo will once again be a 13 seed, and they rank Valpo as 67th in the country, out of 144 teams ranked. It doesn't make sense to have the same seed as the previous year considering that the team is replacing Chadwick with Hammink and Smits. However, the 67 may be realistic. The good news is that the site ranks Valpo ahead of some traditionally solid programs.
Hard to say about seeds. We won 28 games last year and got a 13. It has to do with RPI and such and the level of competition. The ranking is a different matter. I'd be disappointed if we aren't in the top 25, particularly in the Coaches Poll. 67 is a joke.
Quote from: vu72 on September 08, 2015, 02:53:23 PM
Hard to say about seeds. We won 28 games last year and got a 13. It has to do with RPI and such and the level of competition. The ranking is a different matter. I'd be disappointed if we aren't in the top 25, particularly in the Coaches Poll. 67 is a joke.
We may get Top 25 votes, but we won't be in the top 25 at the beginning of the season. If we win all of the games we are supposed (favored) to win, and pick up an extra win or two, we might get into the Top 25 at some point during the season. For the rankings/ratings, we need to win games we are supposed to win.
The 67 ranking may be a little low for some, but is more likely a reflection of where we finished last season. I'd like to think we are right near 50th to start the season.
Quote from: covufan on September 08, 2015, 03:53:08 PM
Quote from: vu72 on September 08, 2015, 02:53:23 PM
Hard to say about seeds. We won 28 games last year and got a 13. It has to do with RPI and such and the level of competition. The ranking is a different matter. I'd be disappointed if we aren't in the top 25, particularly in the Coaches Poll. 67 is a joke.
We may get Top 25 votes, but we won't be in the top 25 at the beginning of the season. If we win all of the games we are supposed (favored) to win, and pick up an extra win or two, we might get into the Top 25 at some point during the season. For the rankings/ratings, we need to win games we are supposed to win.
The 67 ranking may be a little low for some, but is more likely a reflection of where we finished last season. I'd like to think we are right near 50th to start the season.
We finished last year ranked 68th in the Sagarin's
Another way to look at this:
68 - Georgia State
69 - VCU
70 - Memphis
71 - Arkansas
72 - Evansville
73 - Illinois
74 - Florida State
75 - UNLV
These are the 8 ranked below us. How would our team fare if these 8 games (4 home , 4 away) were on our schedule as 2015 OOC games? After 8 games, what would be our record? Would #67 still be a joke?
My point is that this ranking is a joke.
Any ranking based on a rigged scheduling "game" is a joke.
Based on what took place last year and based on what Valpo has coming back this season, it's safe to say there are not currently 66 teams better than the Crusaders. Common sense tells us that.
Quote from: chef on September 09, 2015, 10:49:12 AM
Based on what took place last year and based on what Valpo has coming back this season, it's safe to say there are not currently 66 teams better than the Crusaders. Common sense tells us that.
Speaking of which, with what we have coming back we should start the season as good or better than we finished last year and build from there. We are talented, experienced and deep. Bryce has said repeatedly that the players have great chemistry on and off the court. We have had the benefit of an extra 10 practices and 5 exhibition games. We should expect to win every game regardless of the opponent and be highly disappointed when we don't. Think Wichita State.
Quote from: wh on September 09, 2015, 01:54:38 PM
Quote from: chef on September 09, 2015, 10:49:12 AM
Based on what took place last year and based on what Valpo has coming back this season, it's safe to say there are not currently 66 teams better than the Crusaders. Common sense tells us that.
Speaking of which, with what we have coming back we should start the season as good or better than we finished last year and build from there. We are talented, experienced and deep. Bryce has said repeatedly that the players have great chemistry on and off the court. We have had the benefit of an extra 10 practices and 5 exhibition games. We should expect to win every game regardless of the opponent and be highly disappointed when we don't. Think Wichita State.
I couldn't agree more. This is where the rubber hits the road, or, we get run over by another truck. I think back to the Horizon League Championship game when we managed to hold Green Bay to 44 points, win by 10 while T Walker played a total of 4 minutes, D Walker had a total of 3 points and Alec had 9 points on 3 of 13 shooting and 1 for 8 from the 3. We have to be better. NO EXCUSES!!!!
Quote from: vu72 on September 09, 2015, 02:29:15 PM
Quote from: wh on September 09, 2015, 01:54:38 PM
Quote from: chef on September 09, 2015, 10:49:12 AM
Based on what took place last year and based on what Valpo has coming back this season, it's safe to say there are not currently 66 teams better than the Crusaders. Common sense tells us that.
Speaking of which, with what we have coming back we should start the season as good or better than we finished last year and build from there. We are talented, experienced and deep. Bryce has said repeatedly that the players have great chemistry on and off the court. We have had the benefit of an extra 10 practices and 5 exhibition games. We should expect to win every game regardless of the opponent and be highly disappointed when we don't. Think Wichita State.
I couldn't agree more. This is where the rubber hits the road, or, we get run over by another truck. I think back to the Horizon League Championship game when we managed to hold Green Bay to 44 points, win by 10 while T Walker played a total of 4 minutes, D Walker had a total of 3 points and Alec had 9 points on 3 of 13 shooting and 1 for 8 from the 3. We have to be better. NO EXCUSES!!!!
All these assumptions and high expectations scare the heck out of me. Yes, we almost beat Maryland in the NCAA last year. But we didn't. Yes, we should win the HL, but we will not just walk on over because everyone and their mother will be pointing to knock us off plus we will ALWAYS see their best effort, in clouding YSU (and we could
easily be upset in the final in :censored:
DETROIT ). Given this weight to carry, this team will not have nor can it afford a single off night. Yes, we return a 28-6 winning record from last year, but lost to Missouri (by 15 away) and New Mexico (at home by 17). The OOC schedule might expose us and we still have got to prove that we can beat better, more established programs which last year's team (i.e., this year's team) did not (I know, I know, we are one year wiser).
I certainly hope our young men can carry the weighty burden that is building almost two months before the first tip-off and will continue to build into the season. Right now I'm just waiting (conservatively) despite the excitement I too feel -- I think more out of self preservation and sleeping better.
Quote from: VULB#62 on September 09, 2015, 04:28:18 PM
Quote from: vu72 on September 09, 2015, 02:29:15 PM
Quote from: wh on September 09, 2015, 01:54:38 PM
Quote from: chef on September 09, 2015, 10:49:12 AM
Based on what took place last year and based on what Valpo has coming back this season, it's safe to say there are not currently 66 teams better than the Crusaders. Common sense tells us that.
Speaking of which, with what we have coming back we should start the season as good or better than we finished last year and build from there. We are talented, experienced and deep. Bryce has said repeatedly that the players have great chemistry on and off the court. We have had the benefit of an extra 10 practices and 5 exhibition games. We should expect to win every game regardless of the opponent and be highly disappointed when we don't. Think Wichita State.
I couldn't agree more. This is where the rubber hits the road, or, we get run over by another truck. I think back to the Horizon League Championship game when we managed to hold Green Bay to 44 points, win by 10 while T Walker played a total of 4 minutes, D Walker had a total of 3 points and Alec had 9 points on 3 of 13 shooting and 1 for 8 from the 3. We have to be better. NO EXCUSES!!!!
All these assumptions and high expectations scare the heck out of me. Yes, we almost beat Maryland in the NCAA last year. But we didn't. Yes, we should win the HL, but we will not just walk on over because everyone and their mother will be pointing to knock us off plus we will ALWAYS see their best effort, in clouding YSU (and we could easily be upset in the final in :censored: DETROIT ). Given this weight to carry, this team will not have nor can it afford a single off night. Yes, we return a 28-6 winning record from last year, but lost to Missouri (by 15 away) and New Mexico (at home by 17). The OOC schedule might expose us and we still have got to prove that we can beat better, more established programs which last year's team (i.e., this year's team) did not (I know, I know, we are one year wiser).
I certainly hope our young men can carry the weighty burden that is building almost two months before the first tip-off and will continue to build into the season. Right now I'm just waiting (conservatively) despite the excitement I too feel -- I think more out of self preservation and sleeping better.
I agree totally. My expectations are for some poor showings during the conference per the usual. There should only be 3 losses at most during the OOC.
It might be another 28-6 record (or it could be 25-9) despite having a better, more experienced and deeper team. What brought me down to earth was the Carlton loss on the Canadian trip. From all reports we never showed up and played uninspired basketball. From a veteran team with so much expected of it, that is unacceptable. But it could be a tiny insight into this team's personality. I still don't see a shared "step-on-their-throat-when-they're-down" mindset. But that's why they play the games and I want to be proven wrong.
Quote from: VULB#62 on September 10, 2015, 08:50:24 AM
It might be another 28-6 record (or it could be 25-9) despite having a better, more experienced and deeper team. What brought me down to earth was the Carlton loss on the Canadian trip. From all reports we never showed up and played uninspired basketball. From a veteran team with so much expected of it, that is unacceptable. But it could be a tiny insight into this team's personality. I still don't see a shared "step-on-their-throat-when-they're-down" mindset. But that's why they play the games and I want to be proven wrong.
You mean the exhibition game with a 24-second shot clock we played without the best defensive player in the Horizon last year? We very well may be 28-6 or 25-9, but I don't think an exhibition game down players with different rules, no scouting/gameplan, and inconsistent lineups really tells us anything.
Disagree a bit. If the team is as good and as deep as it appears to be on paper it should have been a more competitive performance regardless. However I'm not too concerned as that game could serve as a reminder to the team that games are won on the court not on paper.
For me if this team is as special as we all hope it is I would look to see how it competes against the big names in the ooc games. Beat all the mid majors and Oregon State while playing close with Oregon and Rhode Island and I think we have it. Lose badly to Oregon and Rhode Island, lose to Oregon State and split with Belmont while beating the rest of the mid majors, then I start to think that it is once again a good mid-major team that probably won't do much in the NCAA tournament if it gets there.
Quote from: a3uge on September 10, 2015, 09:29:50 AM
Quote from: VULB#62 on September 10, 2015, 08:50:24 AM
It might be another 28-6 record (or it could be 25-9) despite having a better, more experienced and deeper team. What brought me down to earth was the Carlton loss on the Canadian trip. From all reports we never showed up and played uninspired basketball. From a veteran team with so much expected of it, that is unacceptable. But it could be a tiny insight into this team's personality. I still don't see a shared "step-on-their-throat-when-they're-down" mindset. But that's why they play the games and I want to be proven wrong.
You mean the exhibition game with a 24-second shot clock we played without the best defensive player in the Horizon last year? We very well may be 28-6 or 25-9, but I don't think an exhibition game down players with different rules, no scouting/gameplan, and inconsistent lineups really tells us anything.
I would agree. The last thing you want to do in an exhibition game is get injured. Bryce and the rest of the coaching staff was using this game more or less as practice. It allows them to experiment with lineups and positions that we may never see again. During normal games this season our best players will be on the court 30+ minutes. Not about half the game. Exhibition games need to be taken with a grain of salt. To Valpo it was more or less a practice game. Yes, they want to win but, in the end they all knew these games mean absolutely nothing and the last thing you would want is an injury that could potentially jeopardize the season.
This team will do just fine.
Someone once said you play like you practice. They already had a couple of games under their belt under the new rules. Missing Alec should have motivated whoever was on the court to take up the slack. My issue was with the approach to the game -- uninspired. There are 12 guys fighting for minutes and they knew Carlton was the best team they'd face on the trip. Regardless of whether it is off season or not, I would have liked to have seen a tougher spirit. But that's just me.
Valpo was discussed in a CBS Sports mailbag column. http://www.cbssports.com/collegebasketball/eye-on-college-basketball/25295814/college-hoops-mailbag-overseas-trips-texas-under-shaka-and-sleepers (http://www.cbssports.com/collegebasketball/eye-on-college-basketball/25295814/college-hoops-mailbag-overseas-trips-texas-under-shaka-and-sleepers)
Q: Who could be this year's Northern Iowa or Murray State: a non-traditional power that has the talent/team to get a good seed? -- Jordan Kuehne
A: I'll have a preseason Cinderella list when we get closer to the season, but I'll give you two teams now that will definitely appear on it.
Valparaiso gave Maryland all that it could handle last season in the NCAA Tournament, and returns its entire rotation this season after Vashil Fernandez was granted a fifth season of eligibility by the NCAA. The return of Fernandez is massive, as he was the Horizon's Defensive Player of the Year last year and is one of the best returning shot-blockers in the nation. Beyond him, stretch-four Alec Peters returns to be their lead offensive weapon, as do Darien and Tevonn Walker in the backcourt. It's an experienced, defensive-based team that can really shoot, and those are the schools who can give the big boys issues come Tournament time. They went 28-6 last year, and it wouldn't be out of the question for them to win 30 games in 2015-16 and earn an at-large bid.
Impressive review. 30 wins? Hmmm Wow.
Quote from: VULB#62 on September 10, 2015, 03:51:08 PM
Impressive review. 30 wins? Hmmm Wow.
Murray State went 29-6 last year including a 35 point loss to us! :o
Will we even play 30 games this year!?
Doesn't matter. We could go undefeated in conference and lose the conference tournament on a buzzer beater and we still won't get an at large unless we beat Oregon, or Rhode Island, or at least Oregon State and win all our out of conference games against mid majors. If we don't beat a major conference team we will not get an at large bid. Period.
Quote from: nkvu on September 10, 2015, 05:52:51 PM
Doesn't matter. We could go undefeated in conference and lose the conference tournament on a buzzer beater and we still won't get an at large unless we beat Oregon, or Rhode Island, or at least Oregon State and win all our out of conference games against mid majors. If we don't beat a major conference team we will not get an at large bid. Period.
The NCAA selection committee doesn't look at W/L record vs major conference teams.
Sorry but I don't believe that. Otherwise why do major conferences get 8 or more teams in the NCAA tournament when mid major conferences get only one? It's because they play and get wins over other major conference teams. I do not believe they look at wins against Horizon league teams the way they look at wins against Big whatever, ACC or SEC teams. Any loss against Horizon league teams would be considered a " bad " loss. Without a big conference win to offset such a loss I don't believe we will get consideration for an at large bid. Absent a win against either Oregon, Rhode Island or at least Oregon State I don't see us getting an at large bid. Realistically we have to win the conference tournament to be assured of an NCAA tournament bid. That's not to say we couldn't win a game or two if we get there however we get there. But major conferences since they play other major conference teams home and home in conference have a huge advantage for at large bids. If we had lost our conference tournament final last year we would not have received an at large bid with 27 wins. Murray State didn't get one with 29 wins. Mid major wins simply do not get the same consideration that major conference wins do. Absent a signiture win against a big conference team I believe we will have to win our conference tournament to get a bid.
Quote from: nkvu on September 10, 2015, 11:17:35 PM
Sorry but I don't believe that. Otherwise why do major conferences get 8 or more teams in the NCAA tournament when mid major conferences get only one? It's because they play and get wins over other major conference teams. I do not believe they look at wins against Horizon league teams the way they look at wins against Big whatever, ACC or SEC teams. Any loss against Horizon league teams would be considered a " bad " loss. Without a big conference win to offset such a loss I don't believe we will get consideration for an at large bid. Absent a win against either Oregon, Rhode Island or at least Oregon State I don't see us getting an at large bid. Realistically we have to win the conference tournament to be assured of an NCAA tournament bid. That's not to say we couldn't win a game or two if we get there however we get there. But major conferences since they play other major conference teams home and home in conference have a huge advantage for at large bids. If we had lost our conference tournament final last year we would not have received an at large bid with 27 wins. Murray State didn't get one with 29 wins. Mid major wins simply do not get the same consideration that major conference wins do. Absent a signiture win against a big conference team I believe we will have to win our conference tournament to get a bid.
This still has nothing to do with conference affiliation. Power conference teams tend to have a high SOS and multiple chances to beat top 50 teams. The selection committee does not value a conference games vs Vanderbilt, Northwestern, or Wake Forest more than a game against Wichita State, Northern Iowa, or Gonzaga. This is a fact. Do you think Northern Iowa's win over 11-22 Virgina Tech meant more than their win over 26-4 SFA? Or a win over Northwestern was more glamourous than Wichita State? If Oregon isn't a top 50 team and Belmont is, they'll value a win over Belmont more than Oregon. If Oregon finishes the year with a 150 RPI, the selection committee won't care about Valpo beating Oregon more than a top 50 RPI mid major team.
There's also a fallacy behind assigning weights to certain games. Just two years ago, Green Bay had a victory over an eventual #1 seed, but missed the tournament because they had bad conference losses over Milwaukee (twice, including one at home), and Valpo. If you looked at their RPI, it was actually only 60, which was higher than Valpo's 2015 and 2013 tournament runs. Even last year, Green Bay had a win over a power conference team (Miami) and a bid was a non-starter.
It is important to gather top 25, top 50 wins. A win over a power conference team is not the same as a win over a top 25, top 50 team. Oregon, Oregon State, and URI should probably be top 50 teams... but if they're not, their conference affiliation isnt going to mean squat for Valpo.
We're #1, we're #1!
http://www.ncaa.com/news/basketball-men/article/2015-09-30/college-basketball-five-teams-could-surprise-march?cid=ncaammsocial_tw_sf13654540 (http://www.ncaa.com/news/basketball-men/article/2015-09-30/college-basketball-five-teams-could-surprise-march?cid=ncaammsocial_tw_sf13654540)
NCAA News story also makes it clear that the Iona game will have some national interest.
Yep. Iona is #3 on that list.
Valpo vs. Iona would have a lot more interest and significance if it were played toward the end of the season instead of the beginning. It's a shame that the original ESPN Bracket Busters format (top 18 mid majors from around the country) isn't still in place. It could have been if not for having to appease a hundred-plus crybaby mids that whined because they got left out. Once they placated the cry baby's and expanded participants to a 100, bracket busters completely lost its luster. Isn't today's "everyone has to have a participation trophy" mindset great? It may drive us all down to the same level of mediocrity, but it's so worth it to keep us in touch with our more sensitive, feminine side.
Quote from: wh on October 02, 2015, 04:14:20 PM
Valpo vs. Iona would have a lot more interest and significance if it were played toward the end of the season instead of the beginning. It's a shame that the original ESPN Bracket Busters format (top 18 mid majors from around the country) isn't still in place. It could have been if not for having to appease a hundred-plus crybaby mids that whined because they got left out. Once they placated the cry baby's and expanded participants to a 100, bracket busters completely lost its luster. Isn't today's "everyone has to have a participation trophy" mindset great? It may drive us all down to the same level of mediocrity, but it's so worth it to keep us in touch with our more sensitive, feminine side.
I blame ESPN for this; they saw it was working, then went overboard until it was no longer even "bracketbusters" playing each other... Essentially it was like what Star Wars is going to turn into once Disney starts making 3 or 4 offshoot movies each year.
E. Victor Nickerson undergoing wrist surgery for a torn ligament. Will be sidelined until shortly before the season starts. Per nwtimes not sure when he will be game ready.
Thoughts?
Quote from: UConnHoops on October 02, 2015, 07:48:45 PME. Victor Nickerson undergoing wrist surgery for a torn ligament. Will be sidelined until shortly before the season starts. Per nwtimes not sure when he will be game ready.
Thoughts?
His return will not be rushed. If VU only went 7 or 8 or 9 or 10 or 11 players deep I might be a bit more concerned as he is a valuable defender. However if necessary we can and will compete in his absence and that includes the early games against Iona, Rhode Island, Oregon and Oregon St.
Sure. A quick recovery would make all of us happier but it wouldn't change the rule that only allows us to play 5 people at a time.
Quote from: wh on October 02, 2015, 04:14:20 PM
Valpo vs. Iona would have a lot more interest and significance if it were played toward the end of the season instead of the beginning. It's a shame that the original ESPN Bracket Busters format (top 18 mid majors from around the country) isn't still in place. It could have been if not for having to appease a hundred-plus crybaby mids that whined because they got left out. Once they placated the cry baby's and expanded participants to a 100, bracket busters completely lost its luster. Isn't today's "everyone has to have a participation trophy" mindset great? It may drive us all down to the same level of mediocrity, but it's so worth it to keep us in touch with our more sensitive, feminine side.
Some body needs to get a Harrison Ante-Award, but who? Sounds like the four letter network.
Quote from: UConnHoops on October 02, 2015, 07:48:45 PM
E. Victor Nickerson undergoing wrist surgery for a torn ligament. Will be sidelined until shortly before the season starts. Per nwtimes not sure when he will be game ready.
Thoughts?
/clearly he is a special player but with the return of Lexus we won't need him at the point. Hammink brings similar defensive skills and is nearly as big. E's swarming of smaller guards was hard to adjust to but we are adding so much talent that we should be fine in his absence.
NCAA lists Vashil as one of the top 7 rim protectors (#4) in the country.
http://www.ncaa.com/news/basketball-men/article/2015-10-02/college-basketball-seven-guys-will-stifle-opponents-rim?cid=ncaammsocial_fb_sf13756518 (http://www.ncaa.com/news/basketball-men/article/2015-10-02/college-basketball-seven-guys-will-stifle-opponents-rim?cid=ncaammsocial_fb_sf13756518)
.... And the pressure continues to build.
I thought those of you who live outside the area might be interested in seeing what's coming up in less than 2 weeks:
SEASON TICKET HOLDER OPEN PRACTICE
Thank you for purchasing season tickets for the 2015-2016 Valpo Basketball season. We are excited for another thrilling season of Crusader basketball! To show our appreciation for your involvement in the program, you and your family are invited to the 5th annual Season Ticket Holder Open Practice. You'll have the opportunity to connect with men's basketball head coach Bryce Drew, women's basketball head coach Tracey Dorow, as well as both teams!
This exclusive event for season ticket holders will be held at the ARC on Friday, Oct. 16, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. and will involve one hour of practice before concluding with a "meet-and-greet" with both teams. You will be the first group to catch a glimpse of your Crusaders as they prepare for the 2015-2016 season. A meal from Parea will be provided. This year's new customized season tickets will be handed out at the end of the event, so please stick around! If you are able to attend, we ask that you please RSVP by calling 219.464.6113 or by emailing valpo.athletics@valpo.edu with the size of your party by October 15. If you are unable to attend, season tickets will be mailed out the following day.
Details at a Glance
What: Season Ticket Holder Open Practice, dinner provided
Where: Arena in Athletics-Recreation Center
When: 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Friday, Oct. 16, ***Doors will open at 5 p.m.
We look forward to seeing you at this event and thank you again for your continued support of Valpo Basketball!
Sincerely,
Mark LaBarbera
VALPARAISO UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS
Quote from: sliman on October 02, 2015, 12:23:26 PM
NCAA News story also makes it clear that the Iona game will have some national interest.
Iona fan here. Should be a great game when we play. Much respect for your program. Didn't see this noted as yet on your board. Mid Major Madness's Top 15 Preseason Poll lists Rhode Island at # 4, Valpo at #7 and the Gaels at # 11.
[tweet]653972338464194560[/tweet]
[tweet]653974250383122433[/tweet]
[tweet]653975267694788608[/tweet]
Grrr... was the time for the Iona game announced late? Somehow it's not yet on my calendar - probably I last updated when the league schedule was announced and only e.g. the Rhode Island game was known non-conf.
One of two interesting non-conference home games this season, and it's a 1:30 PM Sunday tip.
Opposite a hymn fest (2:00 PM) in the chapel where a friend's playing the hymns and my wife is preaching. So, not like I could have done much if I had known...
Am I going to be reduced to the old days of figuring out how to record the WVUR or HLN feeds?
Click on a link, save the newspaper industry!
http://www.nwitimes.com/blogs/sports/inside-vu-sports/horizon-league-media-day-preview/collection_81045daa-38b4-56c4-aefb-e23225d7955e.html (http://www.nwitimes.com/blogs/sports/inside-vu-sports/horizon-league-media-day-preview/collection_81045daa-38b4-56c4-aefb-e23225d7955e.html)
Quote from: wh on October 02, 2015, 04:14:20 PM
Valpo vs. Iona would have a lot more interest and significance if it were played toward the end of the season instead of the beginning. It's a shame that the original ESPN Bracket Busters format (top 18 mid majors from around the country) isn't still in place. It could have been if not for having to appease a hundred-plus crybaby mids that whined because they got left out. Once they placated the cry baby's and expanded participants to a 100, bracket busters completely lost its luster. Isn't today's "everyone has to have a participation trophy" mindset great? It may drive us all down to the same level of mediocrity, but it's so worth it to keep us in touch with our more sensitive, feminine side.
I generally agree with this, but it may also be an advantage that Valpo has the games with Iona/Rhode Island/Oregon/Oregon State on the front end of the schedule. With everyone returning, plus the advantage of the Canadian tour, Valpo should be playing at a high level right out of the gate. If they can take down these teams early, they'll get national recognition (and the rankings that go with that) and then will just need to maintain through the easier non-conference games and the conference schedule.
If they can win early and get into the top 25, they won't be penalized for beating inferior teams ... they just have to avoid bad losses. I think the layout of the schedule provides them a great opportunity.
Quote from: Pgmado on October 13, 2015, 09:51:47 PM
Click on a link, save the newspaper industry!
http://www.nwitimes.com/blogs/sports/inside-vu-sports/horizon-league-media-day-preview/collection_81045daa-38b4-56c4-aefb-e23225d7955e.html (http://www.nwitimes.com/blogs/sports/inside-vu-sports/horizon-league-media-day-preview/collection_81045daa-38b4-56c4-aefb-e23225d7955e.html)
Hard to disagree with any of this. As pointed out, it's difficult to predict which Valpo players might earn individual honors since (other than Peters) it's tough to predict who will get 25+ minutes of playing time. Valpo should be a unanimous pick to win the league, but at this point, who will start or play significant minutes is somewhat of a mystery. As pgmado points out, that's a good dilemma to have.
Quote from: wh on October 05, 2015, 08:03:03 PM
I thought those of you who live outside the area might be interested in seeing what's coming up in less than 2 weeks:
SEASON TICKET HOLDER OPEN PRACTICE
Thank you for purchasing season tickets for the 2015-2016 Valpo Basketball season. We are excited for another thrilling season of Crusader basketball! To show our appreciation for your involvement in the program, you and your family are invited to the 5th annual Season Ticket Holder Open Practice. You'll have the opportunity to connect with men's basketball head coach Bryce Drew, women's basketball head coach Tracey Dorow, as well as both teams!
This exclusive event for season ticket holders will be held at the ARC on Friday, Oct. 16, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. and will involve one hour of practice before concluding with a "meet-and-greet" with both teams. You will be the first group to catch a glimpse of your Crusaders as they prepare for the 2015-2016 season. A meal from Parea will be provided. This year's new customized season tickets will be handed out at the end of the event, so please stick around! If you are able to attend, we ask that you please RSVP by calling 219.464.6113 or by emailing valpo.athletics@valpo.edu with the size of your party by October 15. If you are unable to attend, season tickets will be mailed out the following day.
Details at a Glance
What: Season Ticket Holder Open Practice, dinner provided
Where: Arena in Athletics-Recreation Center
When: 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Friday, Oct. 16, ***Doors will open at 5 p.m.
We look forward to seeing you at this event and thank you again for your continued support of Valpo Basketball!
Sincerely,
Mark LaBarbera
VALPARAISO UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS
I'm out of town right now, so was unable to attend. Would someone kindly give us a recap?
It was a very nice event put on by the university. We have great student athletes at Valpo and events like this where you can talk to them just confirms it.
My observations are simple. We are loaded more than we ever have been in Valpo history. I started watching Valpo basketball in 1982 and we've never had this quality of players ever. Plus we are deep in every position with talent. All of these guys could start except for Cliff Jr and Davidson. If we do not win a game in the tourney this year it will be a failure of a year. Moral victories that have been accepted in the past can't happen this year. Bryce and the coaches need to put it all together and just win.
Also, ML and the university have to step it up this year with marketing and promoting the team. We have a great opportunity here which we have failed at in the past. There is no excuse (except for 3 non D1 opponents) for there to be embarrassing attendance this year at games. We need to get people in the seats. Discount them if you have to.
Cliff Jr?
Quote from: valpocleveland on October 17, 2015, 05:12:02 PM
Cliff Jr?
http://valpoathletics.com/mbasketball/roster/2015-16/8063/chandler-levingston-simon/#.ViLMS36rTrc (http://valpoathletics.com/mbasketball/roster/2015-16/8063/chandler-levingston-simon/#.ViLMS36rTrc)
Not a Bulls fan and too young to get the original reference, thanks.
It was a great evening. Got a chance to see a little practice, mix and mingle with both the Men's and Women's teams and more importantly got a chance to see some of the fan base. Overall great turnout but mostly the tried and true fans
QuoteIt was a great evening.
Inquiring minds (palates?) want to know - Parea again this year, or something else?
Parea. The salmon was delicious.
Looks like Valpo will be playing a "secret scrimmage" at Northwestern on 10/31.
Quote from: rogerwilco on October 22, 2015, 03:43:05 PMLooks like Valpo will be playing a "secret scrimmage" at Northwestern on 10/31.
Got it and your secret is safe with us. ;)
Wait! Let me think. So Northwestern will not consider playing us because we are too good but they are perfectly willing to scrimmage with us so they can get better prepared for the Big Ten season. ???
Couldn't we have found somebody a little more on our level?
Quote from: justducky on October 22, 2015, 04:48:28 PM
Quote from: rogerwilco on October 22, 2015, 03:43:05 PMLooks like Valpo will be playing a "secret scrimmage" at Northwestern on 10/31.
Got it and your secret is safe with us. ;)
Wait! Let me think. So Northwestern will not consider playing us because we are too good but they are perfectly willing to scrimmage with us so they can get better prepared for the Big Ten season. ???
Couldn't we have found somebody a little more on our level?
After the 'scrimmage', we should try to get NW for a home-and-home series, with a third year option for a pre-conference season double header with Loyola and DePaul at the Rosemont arena.
Some other not-so secret scrimmages... ;)
10/31:
Dayton vs. Purdue (in Indianapolis)
Xavier vs. Illinois (in Indianapolis)
Baylor vs. Gonzaga (in Salt Lake City)
11/1:
Evansville vs. Central Michigan (in Indianapolis)
Quote from: rogerwilco on October 22, 2015, 05:38:43 PM
Some other not-so secret scrimmages... ;)
10/31:
Dayton vs. Purdue (in Indianapolis)
Xavier vs. Illinois (in Indianapolis)
Baylor vs. Gonzaga (in Salt Lake City)
11/1:
Evansville vs. Central Michigan (in Indianapolis)
Any idea where these games are being played in Indy? Bankers Life?
Unfortunately, I have no clue where they're being played. Maybe Oren knows...
Quote from: rogerwilco on October 22, 2015, 08:28:45 PM
Unfortunately, I have no clue where they're being played. Maybe Oren knows...
The games are private. You won't be able to get in anyway.
Indeed. Coming soon to a closed gym at an unspecified location near you...and you'll never know the score. (unless there is a mole)
Quote from: justducky on October 22, 2015, 04:48:28 PMCouldn't we have found somebody a little more on our level?
After considerable thought I am now convinced that our choice of Northwestern as a sparring partner is an attempt to save travel money so we can afford our coast to coast pursuit of worthy opponents. :thumbsup:
http://www.cbssports.com/collegebasketball/eye-on-college-basketball/25356774/cinderella-watch-valpo-stephen-f-austin-could-make-noise-in-march (http://www.cbssports.com/collegebasketball/eye-on-college-basketball/25356774/cinderella-watch-valpo-stephen-f-austin-could-make-noise-in-march)
1. VALPARAISO CRUSADERS
If there's a mid-major team more likely to make noise in the 2016 NCAA Tournament, you'd be hard-pressed to find it. The Crusaders are just one of those experience-heavy teams that can beat you on both ends of the floor. Senior guards Darien Walker and Keith Carter run the show, with another senior on the wing in E. Victor Nickerson. Sophomore Tevonn Carter also provides some explosiveness to round out the perimeter rotation. However, it's the frontcourt that wreaks the biggest havoc on mid-major opponents, as potential Horizon Player of the Year Alec Peters is one of the better stretch-4s in America and center Vashil Fernandez was the league's defensive player of the year last season. The group can defend the rim, get after you on the perimeter, space you out on offense by canning 3s at a high rate, and create offense with experienced guard play. What more do you need to hear when it comes to picking a potential Cinderella?
Same article preview of Iona Gaels at #8.
Under Tim Cluess, the Gaels are going to get up and down the floor and take efficient shots from 3 and around the rim. They do lose David Laury, a terrific big man inside who could just about everything for an offensive-minded team, but return their table-setter in A.J. English, who is one of the best players in all of college hoops. Isaiah Williams is their swiss-army knife who can not only guard five positions, but also knock down 43 percent of his 3s. Then of course, Schadrac Casimir is a rising sophomore that looks likely to take the mantle from English next season, and Kelvin Amayo is a pretty good athlete who fills holes. To replace Laury, look for a rotation of players like Aaron Roundtree, Taylor Bessick and Jordan Washington.
Don't forget about No. 7, Belmont (we play them twice!)
7. BELMONT BRUINS
With Rick Byrd in charge, you know the Bruins will always bring terrific offensive sets and a great shooting percentage to the table. In fact, over the last four years, Belmont has finished in the top-five nationally in effective-field goal percentage every season, largely due to their propensity for accurately taking 3-pointers. And that shouldn't change in 2016, as four of their five starters will return to the fold, including Craig Bradshaw, who could have a shot to challenge for the top spot among national scorers. If the defense can make a leap from 250th nationally to right around the national average, Belmont could win 25 or so games and become a strong contender for an upset in the NCAA Tournament. Defense will hold the key to this team.
Good News Jr?
the key for the team this year is turnovers. We improved last year but were still ranked in the middle of the 351 teams. Our defense was awesome and if we can limit our turnovers and not give away scoring chances we will be very hard to beat.
Quote from: Chairback on October 29, 2015, 08:22:57 PM
the key for the team this year is turnovers. We improved last year but were still ranked in the middle of the 351 teams. Our defense was awesome and if we can limit our turnovers and not give away scoring chances we will be very hard to beat.
I tend to agree. Our TO margin was -0.2, which for a 28-6 team is not very good. In games against good teams, this has been our Achilles heel. We also need to do better with our FT%. We need to make teams pay for putting us on the line late in the game. If we continue to be a good 3pt shooting team (and there is no reason to expect anything but better this year), I'd like to see more 3pt attempts.
Quote from: covufan on October 30, 2015, 10:07:25 AM
Quote from: Chairback on October 29, 2015, 08:22:57 PM
the key for the team this year is turnovers. We improved last year but were still ranked in the middle of the 351 teams. Our defense was awesome and if we can limit our turnovers and not give away scoring chances we will be very hard to beat.
I tend to agree. Our TO margin was -0.2, which for a 28-6 team is not very good. In games against good teams, this has been our Achilles heel. We also need to do better with our FT%. We need to make teams pay for putting us on the line late in the game. If we continue to be a good 3pt shooting team (and there is no reason to expect anything but better this year), I'd like to see more 3pt attempts.
I would think Bryce will use a shorter bench rotation (producing fewer turnovers) for selected quality opponents. Other opponents which might include Belmont could see some higher pressure, deeper bench rotations which may selectively run the floor. The later would certainly both create and commit additional turnovers.
I am not sure that I disagree with those I have quoted but to fully make use of our deep bench will require us to accept some amount of additional turnovers.
Quote from: covufan on October 30, 2015, 10:07:25 AMI'd like to see more 3pt attempts
The higher the % on our 2 pointers the less desirable the 3 point shot becomes. If Vashil and others have a breakout year around the basket expect the ball to go inside first where a double team should mean plenty of good 3 point looks.
There's been a lot of talk about our schedule and there continues to be evidence that it may be better than some thought (excluding the non-DI games). The teams receiving votes in the pre-season polls and those highly regarded in individual conference races have been noted. In addition, the names of individual opponents are popping up regularly. In case you missed it, the AP pre-season story identified five under the radar players and we'll be facing three of them:
--E.C. Matthews, G, Rhode Island. One of the nation's best shooting guards averaged nearly 17 points per game last season.
--AJ English, G, Iona. Was the only player in the nation to average 20 points, five assists and five rebounds last season.
--Craig Bradshaw, G, Belmont. Made a name for himself against Virginia in the NCAA Tournament. Expect to hear from him some more.
Obviously these players will make their teams among our toughest opponents and it will be interesting to see how our defense handles them, especially since we face Bradshaw twice.
Quote from: sliman on November 10, 2015, 02:53:27 PM--E.C. Matthews, G, Rhode Island. One of the nation's best shooting guards averaged nearly 17 points per game last season.
Would be nice to use some size to defend him (E.Victor) but he will not be available. Who guards him?
Quote from: sliman on November 10, 2015, 02:53:27 PM--E.C. Matthews, G, Rhode Island. One of the nation's best shooting guards averaged nearly 17 points per game last season. --AJ English, G, Iona. Was the only player in the nation to average 20 points, five assists and five rebounds last season. --Craig Bradshaw, G, Belmont. Made a name for himself against Virginia in the NCAA Tournament. Expect to hear from him some more.
And yet the only team that has beaten us SO FAR, Oregon, didn't have anyone on that list. Although, I would say that Brooks or Dorsey could have easily made that list.
I had expected Carter, Fernandez, Nickerson and Peters to all have breakout years showing great improvements. So far I would characterize their contributions as being more plodding and workmanlike. ;) The real eye-catching flashes have all been provided by T. Walker and Hammink. Looking forward a healthy David Skara could also produce some high-lite reel moments. :thumbsup: We needed him at Oregon!
Quote from: justducky on November 26, 2015, 10:36:54 AM
I had expected Carter, Fernandez, Nickerson and Peters to all have breakout years showing great improvements. So far I would characterize their contributions as being more plodding and workmanlike. ;) The real eye-catching flashes have all been provided by T. Walker and Hammink. Looking forward a healthy David Skara could also produce some high-lite reel moments. :thumbsup: We needed him at Oregon!
Could part of this be that Bryce's offense is set up got the best shot, not necessarily the best player? By reputation Alec draws the best defending big - to the benefit of Tevonn and Shane. AP is playing very forcefully but within the 'system' and his unselfishness fits into it. Great team concept. But there will come a time when AP-specific plays will be needed and he will have to take the team on his shoulders. Hope they are preparing for that scenario. EVN is still recovering, remember. Nice ride so far, huh?
I think that expecting 4 guys to have breakout seasons is unrealistic. We all hope that the whole roster has break out seasons but if they all steadily improve and you get 1 breakout they are gonna be tough to beat all season.
Exactly. This may be more about the whole team breaking out at a much higher level than last season. Whatever, just keep rolling.
It is becoming obvious that we are a much different team without Tevonn. When he is absent from our man defense its effectiveness is diminished significantly. This may be why we are now going with more of the long armed perimeter zone. While this zone has been very effective I think Bryce would prefer to not rely on it.
His absence on offense is also noticeable. EVN, Shane and Darien are all shooting 25% or below at the 3 and defenders are giving them more and more room beyond the 3 point arc, thus reducing their opportunities to drive. As good as our backups are nobody can replace the total Tevonn package.
I have no knowledge of how he is recovering but we may not need him until the Belmont trip so who knows?
Our team season 3 point shooting figure now rests at 34.8%. The credit for this moderate respectability belongs to Alec (46.7%), Darien (38.2%), and Tevonn (37%). OK Keith (31.3%) and David (29%) are only modestly underperforming but the rest of this list is a point guard horror show! :o Shane (23.3%), Lexus (18.8%), EVN (18.5%) and Max (16.7%). Time to get these guys some special work and attention!
I left Jubril off those lists because he is in his own category. He has made 5 of 8 for a season average of 62.5%! Any time it is late in the shot clock and he is open from 3 he should let it rip. I don't care if the announcer gets excited and says that that is not his shot. When he does not hesitate his form is decent. His freshman year he had the green light until later in the season when his success dipped below about 24%. Wait ??? he was shut off from shooting 3's at a higher % than Shane, Lexus, EVN, and Max are now shooting? I nominate Jubril to be our backup point guard. Do I hear a second?
Quote from: justducky on January 23, 2016, 04:02:12 PMI nominate Jubril to be our backup point guard. Do I hear a second?
Uh,........
NO!
so... How's the HL doing RPI and Prediction-wise?
change ~ RPI#~Team~Conf~Overall~RPI~SOS~SOSrank
No Change 30 Valparaiso 7-1 15-4 0.6045 130 0.5176
Up 17 From Last Week 137 Oakland 5-3 13-8 0.5184 207 0.4785
Down 3 From Last Week 142 Wright St. 7-1 11-8 0.5151 182 0.4904
Up 5 From Last Week 152 Green Bay 5-3 11-8 0.5085 242 0.4645
Down 10 From Last Week157 Milwaukee 5-3 12-7 0.5041 264 0.4585
Down 7 From Last Week 207 Detroit 3-5 7-10 0.4714 140 0.5099
No Change 209 Youngstown St. 3-5 6-13 0.4701 144 0.5070
Up 1 From Last Week 238 Cleveland St. 2-6 5-14 0.4533 132 0.5166
Up 1 From Last Week 275 North. Kentucky 3-5 5-12 0.4325 185 0.4875
Down 1 From Last Week 350 Ill. Chicago 0-8 0-17 0.3525 228 0.4700
Real Time RPI Prediction
Valpo 17-1
Oakland 13-5 ( Losing at WSU and Valpo)
Wright 12-6 (losing both this weekend, @Valpo and both games at CSU and YSU?)
Green Bay 10-8: Losses: Valpo, Valpo, Oak, Milw, WSU, UDM, OAK, YST
Milwaukee 10-8: Losses: Valpo, Valpo, Oak, WSU, WSU, UDM, OAK, GBAY
Detroit 9-9: Losses: Valpo, Oak, WSU, Milw, GBAY, CSU, YSU, Valpo, Oak
Youngs 9-9: Losses: Valpo, Oak, WSU, Milw, GBay, NoKy, Valpo, GBay, Milw, UDM
Cleveland 5-13
Northern KY 3-15 (Predictor has them losing every game on out)
UIC 2-16 (Wins at CSU and Northern)
By contrast, RPI Forecast prefers Wright State to Oakland.
(And still favors us loosing a second, but gives us a 33% chance of staying at the one conference loss.)
http://www.rpiforecast.com/confs/Horz.html (http://www.rpiforecast.com/confs/Horz.html)
(They do also like UIC for two wins; or at least a win and a half.)
Quote from: justducky on January 23, 2016, 04:02:12 PMI left Jubril off those lists because he is in his own category. He has made 5 of 8 for a season average of 62.5%! Any time it is late in the shot clock and he is open from 3 he should let it rip. I don't care if the announcer gets excited and says that that is not his shot. When he does not hesitate his form is decent.
Against UIC Jubril only hit 1 of 2 to drop his season average to a mere 66.7% on 10 of 15 shooting from deep.
When does the HL start guarding him closer at distance or are they comfortable in inviting him away from the offensive glass? It is not like he is totally abandoned as Buggs was but if Alec was given the room that Jubril is allowed he might take a dozen 3 pointers per outing.
Quote from: justducky on February 09, 2016, 04:45:08 PM...but if Alec was given the room that Jubril is allowed he might take a dozen 3 pointers per outing.
If Alec was given that kind of space, I would expect he shoot one on damn near every possession. He would be expected to make more than a dozen per game...not just shoot them.
Then again, I think even these lowly Horizon League coaches (/sarcasm) would figure that out pretty quickly. Of course, the guys in the power conferences already know that, because they're automatically better (/mini-rant).
Quote from: ValpoHoops on February 09, 2016, 04:51:17 PM
Quote from: justducky on February 09, 2016, 04:45:08 PM...but if Alec was given the room that Jubril is allowed he might take a dozen 3 pointers per outing.
If Alec was given that kind of space, I would expect he shoot one on damn near every possession. He would be expected to make more than a dozen per game...not just shoot them.
Then again, I think even these lowly Horizon League coaches (/sarcasm) would figure that out pretty quickly. Of course, the guys in the power conferences already know that, because they're automatically better (/mini-rant).
That is soooooo snarky. Love it!
KenPom has a new stat (http://kenpom.com/blog/index.php/weblog/entry/measuring_continuity) and guess who's #1! That's right Valpo has the most continuity.
Here's the full list of HL teams since you need to be registered to see them.
Valparaiso-- 84.9% (#1)
Milwaukee-- 56.7% (#113)
Detroit-- 55.3% (#128)
Oakland-- 49.0% (#172)
Wright St.-- 48.6% (#179)
Green Bay-- 48.3% (#183)
Northern Kentucky-- 45.2% (#205)
Illinois Chicago-- 37.3% (#276)
Cleveland St.-- 30.6% (#312)
Youngstown St.-- 13.7% (#348)
And by comparison here's some historic Valpo teams:
2015: 41.3% (#242)
2014: 24.3% (#335)
2013: 74.9% (#25)
2012: 50.8% (#163)
2011: 66.5% (#58)
2010: 26.0% (#330)
2009: 40.1% (#261)
2008: 78.8% (#12)
Wut?
It's continuity.
QuoteThere's a new stat on the team scouting report for you: Continuity. Although it's more of a storytelling stat, it seems like something that should be tracked by someone. The issue is deciding how to measure it.
One way would be in terms of roster continuity, which determines if the players that played last season are also playing this season. This is what goes into the preseason ratings. But once the season starts, that number only tells part of the story about a team's continuity.