We're a little more than 48 hours from the start of game 4 in MVC play. There is no doubt this will be a tough test. I'd be thrilled if we can win one of the SIU/Loyola games, but why not win both?? Will Fazekas play? I'm guessing not, but I expect Evelyn and Golder to have big games.
Valpo-68
SIU-65
This is a huge game for a couple of reasons: (i) likely without Ryan, who picks up the scoring. Against Bradley, JF was the catalyst, but Golder and Bakari will need to score more. It is also time for Mileek to provide good minutes and some scoring off the bench. (ii) like I used to say during the Horizon transition years, it was easy to be under the radar when Butler was our travel partner and then when Butler left, suddenly we became the hunted. In this season, we are now 3-0 and we will be the hunted. Teams may have looked at us as the 6-12 team, but that has changed. Intensity, aka grittiness, and focus on eliminating turnovers and rebounding become paramount. How hungry will this team play on Saturday?
Tough one to pick. I think that we play better on the road, and think we take it in a close one:
Valpo 66
SIU 64
With Fazekas I would almost view it as a tossup. Without him it will be a struggle to stay competitive. I say this despite SIU never particularly impressing me in any of the 5 games of which I have viewed major portions.
Positives without Fazekas would be the distribution of scoring responsibilities and some additional well deserved minutes being handed to Kiser and McMillan. Both need further development and confidence for the team to have a real chance in St Louis.
Lavender will have a big game and play alot of minutes. He used to play at SIU and I believe he will have alot of family and fiends at the game as it is close to where he grew up. Expect his biggest scoring, assists, and rebounds for a game in the victory.
So who starts this game ???
Smits
Golder
Freeman
Sackey/Lavender
Evelyn/McMillan
After Fazekas went down in Tuesday's game, Kiser started the second half and was given most of his minutes, but in 14 minutes he had 0 points, 0 rebounds. He was the only player on the team not to score and the only one not to record a rebound. If Lottich is going to use Kiser to replace Fazekas, he is going to have to produce. I'd much rather have a smaller starting lineup that includes either Evelyn or Lavender instead. Lavender and Golder also will need to contribute even more to rebounding to compensate for the absence of Fazekas. Maybe McMillan will use this opportunity to step up as some had predicted pre-season?
Fazekas played for roughly 7 minutes before going out. He was 1-1 from behind the arc, 2 rebounds and 3 points.
Kiser/McMillan combined playing time was roughly 24 minutes going 1-4 behind the arc, 4 rebounds and 3 points. (COMBINED)
At least, this sounds more positive than not:
[tweet]1083460309732462592[/tweet]
Good to hear. Anyone see him on campus? Would hate to hear he left the country for rehab
Quote from: valpopal on January 10, 2019, 02:58:55 PMIf Lottich is going to use Kiser to replace Fazekas, he is going to have to produce. I'd much rather have a smaller starting lineup that includes either Evelyn or Lavender instead.
I don't see a 4 guard lineup winning in Carbondale. Maybe 4 guards could keep it close but that is not our objective. So somebody ??? Fazekas ??? McMillan ??? needs to deliver some productive minutes at the 4.
I normally don't like putting any blame on the refs for a loss but they absolutely screwed us at SIU last year. Let's hope things are a little more balanced with the whistle this time around.
Quote from: valpopal on January 10, 2019, 03:26:56 PM
At least, this sounds more positive than not:
[tweet]1083460309732462592[/tweet]
That's good news. So let him rest Saturday and maybe have him return for the Loyola game?
Valpo 56-55....I don't expect a win but I think it'll be low scoring. Anyone can win a low scoring game.
Quote from: valpopal on January 10, 2019, 02:58:55 PM
After Fazekas went down in Tuesday's game, Kiser started the second half and was given most of his minutes, but in 14 minutes he had 0 points, 0 rebounds. He was the only player on the team not to score and the only one not to record a rebound. If Lottich is going to use Kiser to replace Fazekas, he is going to have to produce. I'd much rather have a smaller starting lineup that includes either Evelyn or Lavender instead. Lavender and Golder also will need to contribute even more to rebounding to compensate for the absence of Fazekas. Maybe McMillan will use this opportunity to step up as some had predicted pre-season?
Kiser can only get minutes if we are hitting a high % from the field to start the game.
Smits MUST have himself an 18+ point game in order to get Kiser minutes because we can't afford 15 points total from PF/C and be competitive in this game.
McMillan is our "keys to the game" guy even if Fazekas gets limited minutes (by miracle).
Itll be tough and we're not at the point of being as good (consistent?) as we think, but valpo continues to roll and picks up the w. I like smits recent showings and thinks he steps up this game.
OK, I have my ticket for the SIU game... same as last year... including the 27-hour round trip train ride saga with some other ticket holders who's wives think we're all nuts. The game ends about 5pm... the train leaves at 3:15am. Two thoughts: Quatros and Insomnia Cookies.
Interesting... the SIU students are still on break. There is a "High Number" of available seats in their student section and they are actively promoting 1/2 price tickets to the community. Weather will be iffy rain/snow mix... it's a mid-afternoon game.
as for the game? Love to have us pull this one out... 63-58
For those questioning mcmillan/kiser productivity, i get it. However i thought they did ok. Not necessarily on the box score but they were not a liability either.
Lottich is going to be tempted to not play them much but I think that would be a mistake. We have 15 physical Mvc games left, we need to watch our minutes otherwise we will have loses later in the season when we are at full strength again but exhausted and battling physical fatigue.
Kiser and McMillan will have to play a combined 24 minutes and they will need to not be a liability in those minutes.
If we lose we lose but don't chase road wins the next 2 games short handed at the detriment of player health the following weeks.
Play lots of guys, keep intensity high and minutes low. See what happens.
Quote from: SanityLost17 on January 10, 2019, 08:00:32 PM
For those questioning mcmillan/kiser productivity, i get it. However i thought they did ok. Not necessarily on the box score but they were not a liability either.
Lottich is going to be tempted to not play them much but I think that would be a mistake. We have 15 physical Mvc games left, we need to watch our minutes otherwise we will have loses later in the season when we are at full strength again but exhausted and battling physical fatigue.
Kiser and McMillan will have to play a combined 24 minutes and they will need to not be a liability in those minutes.
If we lose we lose but don't chase road wins the next 2 games short handed at the detriment of player health the following weeks.
Play lots of guys, keep intensity high and minutes low. See what happens.
I thought the same, but then considered that the only reason they weren't a liability is because Bradley couldn't score to save their lives ....and it wasn't entirely because of our defense.
In a game where both teams score 65+ points, I still believe they have proven to be a liability unfortunately. Opponents D just doubles down and can effectively leave Kiser unmarked, it's almost as bad as Buggs in his first few years. Difference being Buggs could drive, Kiser doesn't even have a learners permit...
Quote from: VU2014 on January 10, 2019, 03:49:27 PMI normally don't like putting any blame on the refs for a loss but they absolutely screwed us at SIU last year. Let's hope things are a little more balanced with the whistle this time around.
I agree. There were several games last year where I thought we really got screwed by the Refs. So far this year I haven't seen that. The bad calls (there will always be some) have been pretty balanced between us and our opponent. It seems we have adjusted to how the games are being reffed or have gain some respect from the officials. Also we probably have improved or matured our play.
Then again we haven't played at Evansville and Cedar Falls yet.
Quote from: VUBBFan on January 10, 2019, 08:51:20 PM
Quote from: VU2014 on January 10, 2019, 03:49:27 PMI normally don't like putting any blame on the refs for a loss but they absolutely screwed us at SIU last year. Let's hope things are a little more balanced with the whistle this time around.
I agree. There were several games last year where I thought we really got screwed by the Refs. So far this year I haven't seen that. The bad calls (there will always be some) have been pretty balanced between us and our opponent. It seems we have adjusted to how the games are being reffed or have gain some respect from the officials. Also we probably have improved or matured our play.
Then again we haven't played at Evansville and Cedar Falls yet.
Maybe it's just me but I feel like it's more of this. I think the bigs have learned to adjust in the post but it feels like we're getting more respect with the whistle this time around. Maybe Paul just needs to write another article to ruffle some UNI fans feathers ;)
Quote from: VUBBFan on January 10, 2019, 08:51:20 PMAlso we probably have improved or matured our play.
Thats my vote. Defending awkwardly leads to quick whistles. This year we are getting there faster with better arm and leg positioning and far fewer downward hacks. We may also be a slight bit quicker overall.
If this year's Valpo/SIU games follow last year's pattern, whichever team wins the battle at center will probably win the game.
In game-1 at the ARC, Derrik and Jay combined for 28 points on 9-13 shooting in 38 min. It was their best combined offensive performance of the season. SIU's Pippen had 14 points on 7-14 shooting in 22 minutes. That 14-point advantage played a huge role in a game we won by 11. In fact, Hinson was so frustrated with Pippen's defensive play, he benched him for several minutes.
In the rematch on their court, Derrik and Jay combined for 13 points on 6-6 shooting in 39 min., but Pippen countered with 21 points on 9-11 shooting in 29 minutes. That's an 8-point differential in a game they won by 6. Derrik and Jay also combined for 8 fouls. They allowed Pippen to receive entry passes way too deep in the box, which he took full advantage of with some short and deadly jump hooks which he scored or got fouled. He really ate their lunch.
The same 3 will be battling once again on Sat. It should be fun to watch. :popcorn:
Would really love to see McMillan get more minutes at the 4 if Ryan is going to be out for awhile. I really think he needs to play minutes at that position, it makes us a bigger team and allows us to put another big on the block instead of always 4 on the perimeter. We saw times last year when he had flashes of what might be in the future when he was playing the 4 and I had hoped to see a lot more of that this year after hearing the initial hype.
Quote from: FWalum on January 10, 2019, 10:36:24 PM
Would really love to see McMillan get more minutes at the 4 if Ryan is going to be out for awhile. I really think he needs to play minutes at that position, it makes us a bigger team and allows us to put another big on the block instead of always 4 on the perimeter. We saw times last year when he had flashes of what might be in the future when he was playing the 4 and I had hoped to see a lot more of that this year after hearing the initial hype.
https://twitter.com/MichaelOsipoff/status/1083458684473221121
Quote from: FWalum on January 10, 2019, 10:36:24 PMWould really love to see McMillan get more minutes at the 4 if Ryan is going to be out for awhile. I really think he needs to play minutes at that position, it makes us a bigger team and allows us to put another big on the block instead of always 4 on the perimeter. We saw times last year when he had flashes of what might be in the future when he was playing the 4 and I had hoped to see a lot more of that this year after hearing the initial hype.
Starting two freshman guards with speed and athleticism is not a standard approach for March success, but I love it. Sackey has to play like a sophomore for success in St Louis so hell or high water he is getting more playing time. If done within reason we have very little to lose by expanding minutes for Mileek also. This could answer the questions of how good we can be in March and if we need look for a power forward grad transfer for 19-20.
Quote from: elephtheria47 on January 10, 2019, 06:25:12 PM
Itll be tough and we're not at the point of being as good (consistent?) as we think, but valpo continues to roll and picks up the w. I like smits recent showings and thinks he steps up this game.
Am I imagining things or is Derrik not whining about calls this season? He seems more composed and less liable to go juvenile about a call.
Quote from: VULB#62 on January 10, 2019, 11:48:50 PM
Quote from: elephtheria47 on January 10, 2019, 06:25:12 PM
Itll be tough and we're not at the point of being as good (consistent?) as we think, but valpo continues to roll and picks up the w. I like smits recent showings and thinks he steps up this game.
Am I imagining things or is Derrik not whinning about calls this season? He seems more composed and less liable to go juvinile about a call.
Funny you say that because I thought the opposite seeing him play courtside in DC. He did have 3 personal fouls but when called out on them he would pout in the refs ear about the call each time. Just my thoughts at that time, I did say to myself he sure does complain a lot when fouled. Could have been just that game.
Quote from: VALPO LI on January 11, 2019, 05:26:51 AM
Quote from: VULB#62 on January 10, 2019, 11:48:50 PM
Quote from: elephtheria47 on January 10, 2019, 06:25:12 PM
Itll be tough and we're not at the point of being as good (consistent?) as we think, but valpo continues to roll and picks up the w. I like smits recent showings and thinks he steps up this game.
Am I imagining things or is Derrik not whinning about calls this season? He seems more composed and less liable to go juvinile about a call.
Funny you say that because I thought the opposite seeing him play courtside in DC. He did have 3 personal fouls but when called out on them he would pout in the refs ear about the call each time. Just my thoughts at that time, I did say to myself he sure does complain a lot when fouled. Could have been just that game.
Ohhh pouty Smits and Bakari are never truly gone! They just become dormant as their ability to NOT foul or turn it over improve!!!
While not a good look to do it all of the time, I dont mind it when players whine or complain. It doesnt result in any negatives (the ref wont call more fouls on the player) but it potentially could be positive (having a discussion on how the ref is going to be officiating the game).
Appears it's going to be the 4th game for each team in 11 days, with SIU already playing 2 road games while this is our 2nd road game during that stretch. As wh said, if we can control pippen, I like our chances. Smits and sorolla need to stay out of foul trouble.
I was going to drive down for the game, but the snow is possibly 8-12 inches there by gametime. Will that cut down on the home crowd too?
If I were a Valpo player I would like playing in front of an energetic Saturday road crowd in the MVC. They might even stand during the games. We did well at Mo State on a Saturday afternoon.
Valpo 74 SIU 69
Freeman leads the scoring with 15 or more. He's our best creator and penetrator.
Quote from: crusadermoe on January 11, 2019, 12:15:38 PMI was going to drive down for the game, but the snow is possibly 8-12 inches there by gametime.
I'm sure that the snow won't stop the train. I'm sure that talksalot would appreciate more company from the end of the game and 3:16 a.m.
Any update on Fazekas?
Quote from: valpo64 on January 11, 2019, 02:30:59 PM
Any update on Fazekas?
My guess is that they'll rest him.
What is snow?
Early line has SIU favored by 8 points.
Quote from: valpopal on January 11, 2019, 04:17:40 PM
Early line has SIU favored by 8 points.
I wonder if that is factoring the absence of Fazekas in the game.
I see this game either being a nail biter or a blowout in SIU's favor.
Quote from: humbleopinion on January 11, 2019, 12:28:53 PMI'm sure that talksalot would appreciate more company from the end of the game and 3:16 a.m.
I've got three season ticket holders going too... ... they asked me to go with them! Just hope the train's on time....and the snow's not too deep.
Quote from: talksalot on January 11, 2019, 04:50:58 PM
Quote from: humbleopinion on January 11, 2019, 12:28:53 PMI'm sure that talksalot would appreciate more company from the end of the game and 3:16 a.m.
I've got three season ticket holders going too... ... they asked me to go with them! Just hope the train's on time....and the snow's not too deep.
Enough of a group to play euchre while you wait!
Quote from: humbleopinion on January 11, 2019, 04:57:48 PMEnough of a group to play euchre while you wait!
PRECISELY !! Have to get a large pizza to have a card table...but I have the cards in my pocket...
As a probability guy, I'm optimistic on the rest of the season but think we're due for a regression.
SIU 74
Valpo 51
Quote from: valpopal on January 11, 2019, 04:17:40 PM
Early line has SIU favored by 8 points.
The spread has moved from 8 to 6.
Even without Fazekas, no way we get brown out by 20+. We have taken a big step forward as has our defense. Even on the road, we don't lose by more than 10.
Pre-game coverage -- for an away game!
https://www.nwitimes.com/eedition/north/page-c/page_1f815895-a4bc-5bf2-b8b4-53a5a2a6baa7.html
Quote from: humbleopinion on January 12, 2019, 06:29:34 AM
Pre-game coverage -- for an away game!
https://www.nwitimes.com/eedition/north/page-c/page_1f815895-a4bc-5bf2-b8b4-53a5a2a6baa7.html
This link should work.
Be sure to share the article on your social media platforms to support the paper. If we desire additional content, lets be sure share it to support the paper to help them get as many clicks or views as possible for Valpo Basketball content.
https://twitter.com/nwipreps/status/1083919267626708993
https://twitter.com/NWIOren/status/1084149664000155649
https://twitter.com/THefferman/status/1084143956961779712
Hinson's press conference. Previews today's matchup.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pwujm8Uvl-Y
Ryan Fazekas is out for today's game.
Game Prediction: 79-65 SIU wins
Quote from: VU2014 on January 12, 2019, 12:24:46 PM
Hinson's press conference. Previews today's matchup.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pwujm8Uvl-Y
Notice the difference between Hinson's sincere compliment of Drake shooting the ball well, and Wardle's backhanded compliment crediting our players for hitting some lucky shots. Class vs. classless.
Quote from: wh on January 12, 2019, 02:10:21 PM
Notice the difference between Hinson's sincere compliment of Drake shooting the ball well, and Wardle's backhanded compliment crediting our players for hitting some lucky shots. Class vs. classless.
It's probably all the bitterness built up of Valpo besting him most of his career.
Glad to see NWI Times picked up on my earlier post themes.... 8-)
Hinson's pregame interview. Fletcher will be a starter for SIU tonight.
https://siusalukis.com/watch/?Archive=3368&type=Live
Quote from: VU2014 on January 12, 2019, 01:57:00 PM
Ryan Fazekas is out for today's game.
Game Prediction: 79-65 SIU wins
We need to keep the ISU team score in the upper 50's to lower 60's to have any chance of stealing a win on their home court. Without Ryan's 3-point shooting ability to worry about, rest assure they are going to double our centers every time they touch the ball.
Quote from: VU2014 on January 12, 2019, 02:16:04 PMQuote from: wh on January 12, 2019, 02:10:21 PMNotice the difference between Hinson's sincere compliment of Drake shooting the ball well, and Wardle's backhanded compliment crediting our players for hitting some lucky shots. Class vs. classless.
It's probably all the bitterness built up of Valpo besting him most of his career.
We've had plenty of success against both. One's just a better human being than the other. As for the game I think we'll have a real chance if we stick to what's gotten us this far.
The game is being broadcast on NBC Sports Chicago if you are in the blackout zone
WVUR not working on Tunein Radio app.
2017 Derrik and 2017 Jay in the lineup today.
My goodness do we ever miss Ryan. Hope he recovers really soon.
Time we move on....he's in the NBA now
I think our best offensive strategy for this game is to get out in transition. Play good defense, as we are, but to push the ball before they can get set.
The score on the crawl on the ESPN3 broadcast has been wrong for so much of this game ???
The broadcast has had weird scores too.
Yes, but only Valpo's score has been incorrect.
That turnover by Freeman might have been the first real freshman mistake I've seen him make. Big fan of Freeman
Did I hear the broadcaster say gritty?
Up 7 at the break without Fazekas? I'll take that!
I'm glad we are up but man.... our bigs need to get their heads in the game. Specifically Smits. He rebounds in the 2nd half and maybe we pull this out.
That Valparaiso commercial really needs to be redone because the girl says "passion, it's what comes out of us uncontrollably".
The only thing that comes out of me uncontrollably is diarrhea and vomit...
NEXT
Great Halftime clip about Golder's half court shot vs Illinois State on TV. Can anyone share it. :thumbsup:
Quote from: FieldGoodie05 on January 12, 2019, 03:52:53 PM
That Valparaiso commercial really needs to be redone because the girl says "passion, it's what comes out of us uncontrollably".
The only thing that comes out of me uncontrollably is diarrhea and vomit...
Ok Ok, maybe too graphic for some but my point stands. Mr Oklahomamick tells my example hit too close to home since he has an 8-month old at home 😜😜😜
NEXT
Quote from: oklahomamick on January 12, 2019, 03:44:08 PMYes, but only Valpo's score has been incorrect. That turnover by Freeman might have been the first real freshman mistake I've seen him make. Big fan of Freeman
I thought the same thing, and when they were wrong for SIU, it was to the plus side.
Getting outhustled. Not happy with the last 3 minutes or so.
Quote from: FieldGoodie05 on January 12, 2019, 03:52:53 PM
That Valparaiso commercial really needs to be redone because the girl says "passion, it's what comes out of us uncontrollably".
The only thing that comes out of me uncontrollably is diarrhea and vomit...
NEXT
I have hated that commercial since it first came out... oops
Quote from: VUGrad1314 on January 12, 2019, 04:27:55 PM
Getting outhustled. Not happy with the last 3 minutes or so.
SIU goes for ORBs. We still do not.
Quote from: VULB#62 on January 12, 2019, 04:30:52 PM
Quote from: VUGrad1314 on January 12, 2019, 04:27:55 PM
Getting outhustled. Not happy with the last 3 minutes or so.
SIU goes for ORBs. We still do not.
No consistent hustle to close this game, we deserve to be had if it should be...
Slowly starting to believe in this team...
Great win on the road, line moved from valpo +6 to +8.5, but we proved Vegas wrong. AWESOME WIN
Another gutsy (dare I say "gritty") win. The way we were getting killed on the boards in the second half I really worried that we would blow it but the team never lost their poise. Good job!
Definition of "gritty": Playing a tough team on the road without our leading scorer, out-rebounded by an amazing 45-28, and shooting only 26% from the 3-pt. line; yet, Valpo comes away with a big W.
Quote from: FieldGoodie05 on January 12, 2019, 04:56:07 PM
Quote from: VULB#62 on January 12, 2019, 04:30:52 PM
Quote from: VUGrad1314 on January 12, 2019, 04:27:55 PM
Getting outhustled. Not happy with the last 3 minutes or so.
SIU goes for ORBs. We still do not.
No consistent hustle to close this game, we deserve to be had if it should be...
It's most apparent in Rebounds, being outrebounded 45-28. Not going to win many games rebounding like that. Excellent to get the W but we have to figure this out.
They had 22 Offensive Rebounds, of which a healthy percentage was lack of hustle and awareness of your man. Bakari and Smits' guys always seem to find a way to out hustle or out think them. These two give me palpitations during games!
Quote from: oklahomamick on January 12, 2019, 03:47:32 PM
Did I hear the broadcaster say gritty?
And he said it at the end of the game too
"toughness and grit" :dance:
Great win! Fun to watch this team compete
:thewave:
I would love to know what vitamin or instance occurred to define this turnaround. Great effort.
Quote from: usc4valpo on January 12, 2019, 05:11:23 PMI would love to know what vitamin or instance occurred to define this turnaround. Great effort.
This:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mZ2TNV_LKZM
Also, Smits might be one of our best passers on this team. Hard saying because we have some REALLY solid passers. Heady play by my agitant Mr Smits! Bravo!!!
Everyone is correct on the rebounding problem
But I want to point out smits went 8-9 on free throws. Previously he struggled
Some really bad positioning on rebounding when on defense, but otherwise, I was happy. We tend to just watch and maintain our current position when a shot goes up, while SIU was working their way to one side of our guy to try and steal a rebound each time. You need to fully block the dude out, so that he can't sneak around!
I know that many posters don't like Kiser's game, but as I think that I mentioned last year, he is Matt Kenney-lite. He doesn't have anywhere near the athleticism of Kenney, but he is a glue guy that does bits of everything, and doesn't have to score to keep us together.
Great Win!!
Part of the problem with rebounding was not having 6'7" Ryan Fazekas on the court. You could just see the hesitancy to shoot the three as in "where is Ryan!" When he returns we should be in every Valley game and the favorite in most. Great challenge Tuesday!
Extremely unhappy with the last 14 or so minutes of the second half. That effort on the glass was wholly unacceptable and I hope coach lets them know that. This game should not have been this close and we are fortunate to escape with a win (even though our defensive intensity was deserving of a win). Coach needs to impress upon this team that they're not done defending after the miss. They're done after they get the REBOUND. We have done and need to continue to do a better job of this and it's clear that they could use a reminder of that.
All of that said this was extremely uplifting. We stepped on the court without Fazekas and it showed in our offense yet we STILL made enough plays to win on the road for the SECOND time this year something we didn't do in year one. We also reached 4 conference wins an astounding 10 games sooner than last year and REMAIN in first place. We weathered a major storm on the road (literally and figuratively) and managed to get it done. All that will matter as we prepare for Tuesday Night's battle for first place in Chicago is that we scored 65 to their 61. Ultimately that we picked up another invaluable MVC road win is all that matters. This should be a big shot in the arm to boost the team's confidence going forward. 4-0 feels Good First place feels Great GO Valpo!!!
Raise your hand if you had us 4-0 in the MVC after the High Point game. Me neither! Winning is fun.
The two newest members battling for 1st place next week.
Lutherans vs Catholics
Quote from: VALPO LI on January 12, 2019, 04:02:20 PMGreat Halftime clip about Golder's half court shot vs Illinois State on TV. Can anyone share it. :thumbsup:
I have it here,
https://twitter.com/AlBillets/status/1084233801977475072
That is awsome!!!!
Clip was well done.
Almost an epic collapse. Way to survive! Let's get the rebounding fixed.
I asked that Kiser/McMillan combine for 24 minutes win or lose because we don't want to wear the rest of our players down... They got 22 minutes.
I asked that we keep everyone at 30 minutes or less. Everyone was under except Golder (33) and Freeman (35). Unfortunately we needed them to play those extra 8 minutes because of our lack of rebounding keeping SIU in the game.
We don't need Fazekas back just for his shooting, we need him back to continue to watch our minutes. We don't want Freeman hitting a wall 3/4 through the season.
Bakari still not playing well but I gotta think it will come back to him by the time we hit St. Louis, right?
Quote from: SanityLost17 on January 12, 2019, 06:47:07 PM
I asked that Kiser/McMillan combine for 24 minutes win or lose because we don't want to wear the rest of our players down... They got 22 minutes.
I asked that we keep everyone at 30 minutes or less. Everyone was under except Golder (33) and Freeman (35). Unfortunately we needed them to play those extra 8 minutes because of our lack of rebounding keeping SIU in the game.
We don't need Fazekas back just for his shooting, we need him back to continue to watch our minutes. We don't want Freeman hitting a wall 3/4 through the season.
Bakari still not playing well but I gotta think it will come back to him by the time we hit St. Louis, right?
Bakari didn't have the best game but I don't think he was horrible. He's still way ahead of where he was before conference play. Not worried about him. I'm sure he'll be fine. How's your letter going? ;) :)
Well my 74-69 pick wasnt far off..
I had Freeman leading the scoring. I wouldn't worry about him hitting a wall. He just glides and just has a knack for avoiding contact.
He will score more as the year goes on and he feels ok leading.
https://twitter.com/THefferman/status/1084260055195762689
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gr7lt9pmHlg
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4_zPCoDYzfc
Quote from: VUGrad1314 on January 12, 2019, 07:02:10 PM
Quote from: SanityLost17 on January 12, 2019, 06:47:07 PM
I asked that Kiser/McMillan combine for 24 minutes win or lose because we don't want to wear the rest of our players down... They got 22 minutes.
I asked that we keep everyone at 30 minutes or less. Everyone was under except Golder (33) and Freeman (35). Unfortunately we needed them to play those extra 8 minutes because of our lack of rebounding keeping SIU in the game.
We don't need Fazekas back just for his shooting, we need him back to continue to watch our minutes. We don't want Freeman hitting a wall 3/4 through the season.
Bakari still not playing well but I gotta think it will come back to him by the time we hit St. Louis, right?
Bakari didn't have the best game but I don't think he was horrible. He's still way ahead of where he was before conference play. Not worried about him. I'm sure he'll be fine. How's your letter going? ;) :)
When you finish the rough draft on the apology letter just post it here so we can help you fine tune it. We always try to help each other because that is what VU message board membership is all about! ;)
Quote from: talksalot on January 10, 2019, 07:23:48 PM
OK, I have my ticket for the SIU game... same as last year... including the 27-hour round trip train ride saga with some other ticket holders who's wives think we're all nuts. The game ends about 5pm... the train leaves at 3:15am. Two thoughts: Quatros and Insomnia Cookies.
Interesting... the SIU students are still on break. There is a "High Number" of available seats in their student section and they are actively promoting 1/2 price tickets to the community. Weather will be iffy rain/snow mix... it's a mid-afternoon game.
as for the game? Love to have us pull this one out... 63-58
Ahem.. nailed it. Off to get a cookie
Quote from: talksalot on January 12, 2019, 09:59:14 PMQuote from: talksalot on January 10, 2019, 07:23:48 PMOK, I have my ticket for the SIU game... same as last year... including the 27-hour round trip train ride saga with some other ticket holders who's wives think we're all nuts. The game ends about 5pm... the train leaves at 3:15am. Two thoughts: Quatros and Insomnia Cookies. Interesting... the SIU students are still on break. There is a "High Number" of available seats in their student section and they are actively promoting 1/2 price tickets to the community. Weather will be iffy rain/snow mix... it's a mid-afternoon game. as for the game? Love to have us pull this one out... 63-58
Ahem.. nailed it. Off to get a cookie
You sir have earned it! Enjoy your victory cookie! I'd love to make this Carbondale trip with you guys sometime. It really sounds like a good time! Have fun with the rest of the trip. Get back safe and Go Valpo!
Quote from: VUGrad1314 on January 12, 2019, 10:14:43 PMIt really sounds like a good time!
Ask again around 2:30 a.m. -- an hour before the train arrives for the return trip.
Quote from: VU2014 on January 12, 2019, 02:16:04 PM
Quote from: wh on January 12, 2019, 02:10:21 PM
Notice the difference between Hinson's sincere compliment of Drake shooting the ball well, and Wardle's backhanded compliment crediting our players for hitting some lucky shots. Class vs. classless.
It's probably all the bitterness built up of Valpo besting him most of his career.
Hinson lost a lot of games at Valpo during our battles with ORU. Although his ORU teams never lost at home to Valpo.
To say the SIU fans are unhappy with Hinson would be the understatement of the year. Wow! Check out their fan board. Some are hoping they don't win another game so he will be canned. :o
Quote from: humbleopinion on January 12, 2019, 10:35:36 PM
Quote from: VUGrad1314 on January 12, 2019, 10:14:43 PMIt really sounds like a good time!
Ask again around 2:30 a.m. -- an hour before the train arrives for the return trip.
The Illinois Service Amtrak train 391, The Saluki, arrived at Homewood, IL at 9:09 a.m. CST (ONLY 17 minutes late today) Not bad at all for Amtrak!!!!
HOMEWOOD, IL
HMW
Station Building (with waiting room)
18015 Park Avenue
59 City of New OrleansJanuary 12, 2019Arrived10:11 pm CT1 hr 25 min late
58 City of New OrleansJanuary 13, 2019Arrived8:24 am CT42 min late
391 Illinois ServiceJanuary 13, 2019Arrived9:09 am CT17 min late
Take that: Graduate transfer guard Deion Lavender beats former team as Valparaiso stops Southern Illinois
Michael Osipoff
Post-Tribune
January 12, 2018
https://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/post-tribune/sports/ct-ptb-spt-mens-basketball-valparaiso-southern-illinois-st-0113-story.html
https://twitter.com/PostTribSports/status/1084476413766393856
Shorthanded Crusaders grab road victory
Paul Oren Times Correspondent
Jan 12, 2019
https://www.nwitimes.com/sports/basketball/college/shorthanded-crusaders-grab-road-victory/article_ada7ec02-6ceb-5055-ac6a-4d3ed4683c34.html
From P-T story:
(Lottich) "But we played tough, we played gritty."
I counted 3 non-box outs by Bakari in the first half alone. They were so obvious because SIU either scores immediately or benefited by his standing still. Bench him to your hearts content coach. I haven't even gotten into the 2nd half in which 13 additional Offensive Rebounds were registered...
It's hard to enjoy rewatching a single player so I won't attempt it, but SIU's Darius Beane was mostly Bakari's mark and he had 7 offensive Reb in the game.
Another 6 came from the F position with Armon Fletcher (really a big G)....inexcusable to have two players have 13 between the two of them. They just crashed the boards on misses and made it a game.
BOX OUT BAKARI (BOB), I'm going to start calling him BOB...
The fans in Carbondale might just hate their lives and find meaning only in SIU games. That would never apply to people on this board. :'(
Quote from: FieldGoodie05 on January 13, 2019, 11:11:54 AM
I counted 3 non-box outs by Bakari in the first half alone. They were so obvious because SIU either scores immediately or benefited by his standing still. Bench him to your hearts content coach. I haven't even gotten into the 2nd half in which 13 additional Offensive Rebounds were registered...
It's hard to enjoy rewatching a single player so I won't attempt it, but SIU's Darius Beane was mostly Bakari's mark and he had 7 offensive Reb in the game.
Another 6 came from the F position with Armon Fletcher (really a big G)....inexcusable to have two players have 13 between the two of them. They just crashed the boards on misses and made it a game.
BOX OUT BAKARI (BOB), I'm going to start calling him BOB...
A fellow alum said it best "It doesn't appear Bakari even knows boxing out is a thing".
Quote from: FieldGoodie05 on January 13, 2019, 11:26:37 AM
Quote from: FieldGoodie05 on January 13, 2019, 11:11:54 AM
I counted 3 non-box outs by Bakari in the first half alone. They were so obvious because SIU either scores immediately or benefited by his standing still. Bench him to your hearts content coach. I haven't even gotten into the 2nd half in which 13 additional Offensive Rebounds were registered...
It's hard to enjoy rewatching a single player so I won't attempt it, but SIU's Darius Beane was mostly Bakari's mark and he had 7 offensive Reb in the game.
Another 6 came from the F position with Armon Fletcher (really a big G)....inexcusable to have two players have 13 between the two of them. They just crashed the boards on misses and made it a game.
BOX OUT BAKARI (BOB), I'm going to start calling him BOB...
A fellow alum said it best "It doesn't appear Bakari even knows boxing out is a thing".
Perspective, SIU had 22 OREB so Bakari didn't contribute to all but he and Lavender totaled 8 OREB by their guys that I could see...
Reality, BOB contributed 3 in each half for a total of 6 against him.
2nd Half4th BOB = resulted in jump ball
5th BOB = missed FG
6th BOB = AND1 during their comeback
I'm not any more experienced in coaching or the nuisances of college b-ball but I think coach knows and will continue to tighten it up.
But I'm seeing first hand why Bakari and Lavender are coming off the bench. Hope they tighten it up.
P.S. Pippen did a good job of tip OREB assists. Not positive we can fault Smorolla for that but I was impressed with Pippen all 3x I've seen him.
Quote from: FieldGoodie05 on January 13, 2019, 01:32:42 PM
Quote from: FieldGoodie05 on January 13, 2019, 11:26:37 AM
Quote from: FieldGoodie05 on January 13, 2019, 11:11:54 AM
I counted 3 non-box outs by Bakari in the first half alone. They were so obvious because SIU either scores immediately or benefited by his standing still. Bench him to your hearts content coach. I haven't even gotten into the 2nd half in which 13 additional Offensive Rebounds were registered...
It's hard to enjoy rewatching a single player so I won't attempt it, but SIU's Darius Beane was mostly Bakari's mark and he had 7 offensive Reb in the game.
Another 6 came from the F position with Armon Fletcher (really a big G)....inexcusable to have two players have 13 between the two of them. They just crashed the boards on misses and made it a game.
BOX OUT BAKARI (BOB), I'm going to start calling him BOB...
A fellow alum said it best "It doesn't appear Bakari even knows boxing out is a thing".
Perspective, SIU had 22 OREB so Bakari didn't contribute to all but he and Lavender totaled 8 OREB by their guys that I could see...
I'm not any more experienced in coaching or the nuisances of college b-ball but I think coach knows and will continue to tighten it up.
I love the tenacious defense we have seen of late and the willingness of players to go to the floor after loose balls. On offense we are incorporating much more movemnent in the attack. We are also getting some decent 3 pt looks as a result. But we continue to not get ORBs and we continue to give up ORBs (in bunches) Why is that? Without having attended a single Valpo practice, I think I can envision how certain drills go down. I think I know the reason:
practice mindset.
>> When the first 5 is working on offensive sets and a shot goes up, the other offensive players admire the shot instead of assuming it'll miss and crashing the glass for the put back.... and the coaches blow the whistle and reset. And in practice I would assume the FG %age is pretty high so the number of misses just aren't there like they are in a game.
>> Then when the first 5 sets up on D against the scout group to defend opponent offensive sets, the scout group goes through the motions, lets shots fly but also does not crash the glass for the ORB (because that is the Valpo practice mindset, nevermind that the scout group should emulate opponents characteristics and most MVC teams crash the glass after a shot), thus not forcing the first 5 to position themselves to anticipate the put back. Coaches whistles blow and there's a reset.
The simple cure for this is (easy for me to say) to make defensive positioning and offensive glass crashing part of every player's DNA in practice and extend practice scrimmages to incorporate this very critical componet of the game. Just by reducing opponent ORBs through dedication to defensive positioning and increasing our commitment to go after put backs and ORBs when we have teh ball, it could change the dynamic of our games markedly. But it has to start in practice and constantly be reinforced in practice. You play like you practice.