I LOVE THE SMELL OF MARCH BASKETBALL IN THE MORNING!!!11!1!
And with that, welcome to one of the last SEC Reports of this peculiar basketball season. I've certainly enjoyed bringing you them and I hope you've enjoyed reading them. And as long as the Eric and Marco want me around, I'm definitely happy to keep bringing them.
I also hope my UK fanhood didn't stand out too badly. With that, let's talk some SEC Basketball.
It was another interesting week in the SEC. The teams in the West, save Mississippi State, seem unwilling to do anything to address the modicum of control they have/had over their post-season destiny.
For the past couple of weeks, five, or perhaps six SEC teams have been mentioned in regards of making the NCAA Tournament. However, now that the dust of conference play is starting to settle, only Tennessee, Mississippi State and Vanderbilt are locks. The Arkansas Razorbacks are a probable/maybe while Kentucky and Florida reside firmly on the proverbial bubble.
At most, only two of these last three teams will make it. The one left on the outside, looking in will have an opportunity to play in Madison Square Garden... and hey, college-sponsored field-trips to New York City can't be all bad, right? ;)
Stop. Update time:
Team of the Week - Tennessee
Bruce Pearl's SEC Champ squad was the only team to win two games during this past week, dispatching Kentucky on Sunday and the Florida Gators Wednesday night in Gainesville. Wednesday's tough win gave the Vols their first outright SEC regular-season title since 1967. All that's left for Tennessee is a decent SEC Tournament showing and they should lock up a two-seed in the Big Dance.
Worst Team of the Week - Florida
Well, Gators. You've done gone and did it: you just may have played your way right out of the Big Dance and into the NIT. A first for a modern defending National Champion? To wit, Billy Donovan's young `uns have lost six of 10 and two-in-a-row during the week between the SEC Reports (To Tennessee and Mississippi State). Florida finishes the season in Lexington, as UK celebrates the last home game of Ramel Bradley and Joe Crawford -- not the easiest environments to secure an NCAA Tournament-worthy win.
Player of the Week - Shan Foster
What can you say about Mr. Foster that hasn't already been said. His 42-point/3-pointer-to-win-the-game performance against Mississippi State Wednesday night can easily go down amongst the SEC's all-time best. While Vandy split this week, dropping one to Arkansas on the road (never the easiest place to play), Shan still put up 22 points while hitting six 3-point bombs to keep his team within reach at Fayetteville.
Against the Bulldogs, Foster hit nine from downtown. Folks, say "Hello" to your SEC Player of the Year.
Games to Watch
3/8 Vanderbilt at Alabama
3/8 LSU at Mississippi State
3/8 Ole Miss at Georgia
3/8 Auburn at Arkansas [ESPN Classic] 6:00
3/9 Florida at Kentucky [CBS] Noon
3/9 South Carolina at Tennessee
Remember, at STF, we are College Basketball. ;)
Friday, March 7, 2008
STF Conference Reports: SEC 3/6
Saturday, March 1, 2008
Dark Secrets: An Alternate Ending To the Bruce Pearl Saga
Read this article in order to comprehend what follows.
We pick up the story at halftime of Sunday's game. Kentucky is holding onto a slim lead.
Erin Andrews: Coach, how do you explain your team's staying in this game despite a seeming lack of real effort or urgency on the court?
"Bruce Pearl":
Erin Andrews:
"Bruce Pearl": Geez, what am I gonna do to motivate these kids? They're flat out on the court. Let's see, what can I play that they know and like...I know! That awesome bohemian rock opera song. I'll show them how with it I am!
"Bruce Pearl": (walks into the player's room) Guys, you looked a little flat out there. I know you're nervous because of what's at stake. Not to worry, all you need is to calm the nerves a bit before the second half. And I've got just the thing. Okay, here goes:
Gillespie: NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!
Billy Gillespie then confronts "Bruce Pearl" outside the stadium.
Gillespie: What the hell was that out there? You were supposed to ruin them! You were supposed to help us win!
"Bruce Pearl": Yeah, except for one thing...this is my team.
Gillespie: Huh?
"Bruce Pearl" peels off his mask to reveal the actual Bruce Pearl.
Pearl: SURPRISE BITCH! Did you really think I was going to miss this game?
Gillespie: NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!! But how did you pull this off? I heard the hand-fart thingy!
Pearl: Let's just say I'm a quick learner. Aaaaaaaaaannnd I had a boom box behind the whiteboard.
Gillespie: But, wait...If you're here...and you've been in this building the whole time...then..who do we have tied up in the van?!?
Meanwhile, in the van...
"Bruce Pearl": (makes fart noises with hands for help)
Van Driver: Whoa, man! What the hell's wrong with you? That's it, man. No more microwave burritos!
Van Accomplice: I'm not doin' it, you're doin' it!
Driver: No you're doin' it!
Accomplice: No you're doin' it!
A slapfight ensues in the van for the next half hour.
The End.
Dark Secrets of College Basketball: Kentucky has Had it up to HERE with Your Precious Bruce Pearl
It must be a bit unsettling for Kentucky basketball fans to watch the Volunteers' sudden run of success in the past few years. For the Wildcats, Bruce Pearl must be the most hated man in the state.
Despite a very slow start to the season, Billy Gillespie's team finds themselves at 10-3 in the conference and in control of their Eastern division destiny. Sunday's UT-UK game is going to be huge for them for conference position and possibly putting the Cats back in the at-large debate. But most importantly, it's to prevent their hated rivals from their first outright SEC regular season title in more than 40 years, and their first share of the title since 2000, when their star player was the black guy from Reno 911.
With star player Patrick Patterson out for the season, the Wildcats need to take a desperate measure. So they've hatched a plan to help level the playing field...and get a bit of revenge.
Scene: Friday Night, Feb. 29, 2008. Bruce Pearl has just adjourned practice, and is in his office just before heading home.
Secretary: Well, it looks like Wayne Chism is going to have a much easier time in the paint now that Patterson is done for the year.
Pearl: WHOOOOO!!! HOW ABOUT THAT CHISM! HUH?!?
Secretary: And remember, you still need to set up the makeup exam for Lofton, he won't make the date of his midterm because of the Florida game on Wednesday.
Pearl: WHOOOOO!!! HOW ABOUT THAT LOFTON! HUH?!? (gives female graduate assistant a slightly-too-long stare)
Secretary: ...I see. Well, have a good night, coach.
Pearl: WHOOOOO!!! HOW ABOUT THAT KNIGHT! HUH?!? (awkwardly hugs a passing Candace Parker in the hallway)
Secretary: Sir, we don't have anyone named Knight on our team.
Pearl: WHOOOOO!!! HOW ABOUT THAT WII! HUH?!? (gropes a life-size Pam Summitt doll as he leaves the office)
Secretary: I give up.
Pearl then walks out of his office and into the streets of Knoxville. Just as he's taking in the view of the Cumberland river, an unmarked van stops, drags Bruce pearl inside, and drives off.
Pearl: AAAAAAAAAA!!! Whatever it is, Mr. Myles, I didn't send those text messages to recruit my own son!
Ominous voice: Bwaahahahahaaaah. Looks like you've got a big game tomorrow, don't you? It's too bad you be there for it.
Pearl: Who are you? Are you a bookie?
Voice: No...I am far more inside than that. We have so much more at stake than money. I represent who never want to see your team become a power. We seek to nip your program at the bud. We seek to steal you from the limelight you so richly desire. We seek...revenge.
Pearl: No...it can't be...
Voice: Oh, yes...
Pearl: You won't get away with this, Billy! People are going to notice I'm gone.
Gillespie: Oh, no they won't. We've already replaced you with a body double.
Pearl: Who?
Gillespie: That guy who does fart noises with his hands. He kinda looks like you. We paid him handsomely for the little gig. You think he makes any good money putting those videos up on YouTube?
You see, Bruce, you've underestimated us. We will do whatever it takes to maintain the universal order and keep you from an outright SEC regular season title. WHATEVER IT TAKES.
Later, at halftime on Sunday...
Erin Andrews: Coach, how do you explain your team's slim lead despite a seeming lack of real effort or urgency on the court?
"Bruce Pearl":
Erin: Thanks, coach, and good luck in the second half.
(waits for him to leave)
Words cannot describe how badly I want that man right now. How did he do that?
Michael Winslow: (caged, talking under his smile) Help...me...
Gillespie: And there he goes to the locker room. If he does what I tell him to do, the Volunteers have no chance in the second half.
"Bruce Pearl": Geez, what am I gonna do to motivate these kids? They're flat out on the court. Let's see, what can I play that they know and like...I know! That Herbie--Whatchamacallit techno song. I show them how with it I am!
"Bruce Pearl": (walks into the player's room) Guys, you looked a little flat out there. I know you're nervous because of what's at stake. Not to worry, all you need is to calm the nerves a bit before the second half. And I've got just the thing. Okay, here goes:
Wayne Chism: (head explodes)
Chris Lofton: (vomits, then eats own vomit, then vomits it again)
Everyone on the team named "Smith": (put on ominous suits and sunglasses, pull out Desert Eagle pistols, and start capping asses)
Steven Pearl: (applauds, then his imaginary friend kicks him in the nether region)
"Bruce Pearl": Uh-oh.
The Volunteers leave the locker room injured, disheveled, and confused. They proceed to shoot 3-for-34 in the second half, commit 20 turnovers, and miss, like, 12 straight layups en route to a 32 point loss at the hands of Kentucky.
Gillespie: BWAAAAAAHAHAHAHAHAAAAAAAAHHH!!! Yes, it worked! Order is finally restored in the state of Kentucky. Now, if only we can run Rich Brooks out of town and get the football team to suck again.
Coming Up Next...An Alternate Ending!
Thursday, February 28, 2008
STF Conference Reports: SEC 2/28
It was an interesting seven days in the SEC, that's for sure. Since Saturday, we've seen an SEC team beat the number one team in the country; gain the vacated top spot; and then lose it less than 48 hours later.
Business as usual, wouldn't you say.
A few reports ago, I mentioned something about Joe Lunardi predicting six SEC teams would make the Big Dance. As of today, this number has been reduced to five, with Tennessee, Vandy, Florida, Arkansas, and Mississippi State being the recipients. Not too bad for a conference that's supposed to be mediocre this year, aye?
Don't be surprised if this number winds up increasing by one, either... I'm looking at you, UK. OK, on with the update:
Team of the Week - Vanderbilt
This award was decided Tuesday night when Vandy beat the Volunteers in Nashville. Had UT won that game, they'd be sitting here right now. Just how good are the Commodores? Well, during the last seven days, Vandy beat Georgia and Tennessee (both home games). Currently, their SEC record stands at 9-4, one game behind Kentucky and two behind Tennessee.
This should be one hell of an SEC Tournament in a couple of weeks.
Worst Team of the Week - Ole Miss
After a brilliant 14-0 start to their season (albeit, against a cupcake schedule) the Rebels have found conference play to be a much tougher animal. After last night's loss to UK (a game that saw Ole Miss trail by 20-plus points, only to lose by four), Andy Kennedy's bunch stands at 4-9 in the SEC. What makes Ole Miss' record even more confounding is after beating rival Mississippi State last Wednesday, they turn around and lose by 20 to LSU.
When you add in last night's near miss, the positive vibes from the MSU win are all gone.
Player of the Week - Shan Foster
Not much debate this week. Against the Vols on Tuesday, Foster had 32 points. During the Georgia win last Saturday, Foster scored 29. These back-to-back performances by Foster may have also shut the door on the SEC Player of the Year race.
In order for him not to win it, Vandy will have to go completely in the tank, led by an incredible Foster slump. Of course, Chris Lofton could catch even more fire and decide he too wants to score 30 points a game and might just start launching as soon as he crosses half-court.
During his torrid two-game stretch, Foster was 9-18 from the 3-point arc and 12-15 from the free throw line.
Games to Watch
3/1 Alabama at Ole Miss
3/1 Vanderbilt at Arkansas
3/1 Mississippi State at Florida [CBS] 4:00
3/1 South Carolina at Auburn
3/2 Kentucky at Tennessee [CBS] Noon
3/2 Georgia at LSU
3/4 Arkansas at Ole Miss [ESPN] 9:00
3/5 Kentucky at South Carolina
3/5 Georgia at Auburn
3/5 Alabama at LSU
3/5 Mississippi State at Vanderbilt
3/5 Tennessee at Florida
Thursday, February 21, 2008
STF Conference Reports: SEC 2/21
Can you believe it's almost March? Conference tournaments, filled-out brackets, and upsets galore. Oh my! What grade would you give your conference? For the SEC, a solid B seems fitting.
While some of the traditional powers may be down, Tennessee is ranked number 2 in the country with a chance to beat number 1 on Saturday. We also have the return of teams like Arkansas and Ole Miss. If this is the result of UK being down, perhaps they should take more seasons off... Nah, maybe not. ;) So what did we learn last week:
Team of the Week - Tennessee Volunteers
Tennessee hasn't lost a game since they left Rupp Arena back in late January, winning seven in a row. This past week, their 2-0 record (23-2, 10-1) included wins over Georgia in Athens and last night's beatdown of the Auburn Tigers. Next up for the Vols? The Memphis Tigers, otherwise known as the number 1 team in the land.
It's the ESPN Saturday night game, so don't miss it.
Worst Team of the Week - LSU Tigers
After building a large cache' of goodwill for interim coach Butch Pierre by stomping the Florida Gators in Gainesville, the Tigers squandered it by losing to UK in Baton Rogue (with UK coming off of that 40-point demolition at Vandy) and then last night, they got stomped in Fayetteville, Arkansas (87-61). While there is talent in Baton Rogue, they are certainly missing pieces as well... obviously.
Player of the Week - Tyler Smith
Apparently, the Tennessee players have decided to make this little award their own. The last two weeks, it was Chris Lofton and while he may be worthy this week, I thought it better to recognize the workman-like effort of Smith. In the two most recent Volunteers wins, Smith posted consecutive double-doubles, combining for 23 rebounds and 25 points.
While it's Lofton's sweet shooting that gets a lot of the focus, the Vols wouldn't be nowhere near as successful without Smith's efforts.
Games to Watch
2/23 - Arkansas at Kentucky [CBS] 2:00
2/23 - Georgia at Vanderbilt
2/23 - Mississippi State at South Carolina
2/23 - Ole Miss at LSU
2/23 - Tennessee at Memphis [ESPN] 9:00
2/24 - Alabama at Auburn [CBS] 2:00
2/26 - Tennessee at Vanderbilt [ESPN] 9:00
2/27 - Florida at Georgia
2/27 - LSU at South Carolina
2/27 - Arkansas at Alabama
2/27 - Auburn at Mississippi State
2/27 - Ole Miss at Kentucky
Thursday, February 14, 2008
STF Conference Reports: SEC 2/14
Happy Valentine's Day folks. If you are looking for a heart to give your loved one, just travel down to Nashville and see Kevin Stallings. I'm sure he has UK's still-beating heart his Commodores tore out on his desk.
Do you have any idea how hard these wrap-ups are after your team is embarrassed like that? BTW, when I went to bed Tuesday night, there were still 5000+ UK fans on Catspause.com discussing Vandy's assault-with-a-deadly-basketball... I'm not sure what that says but whatever it is, it makes me chuckle.
Beatdowns of favorite teams aside, it was another entertaining week for the SEC; a conference so down, Joe Lunardi sees six teams making the Big Dance (more than the Big Ten and ACC). Anyway, on with the update:
Team of the Week - Mississippi State Bulldogs
The Bulldogs bounced back nicely after last week's slip-up. During the latest seven-day period, MSU swept the state of Alabama by beating Auburn and the state's college by a combined 26 points. Again, deciding the SEC West looks like it will be incredibly entertaining as Mississippi State, Arkansas, and Ole Miss try and claim the regular season title.
Honorable Mention - Arkansas, Vandy
After a suspect start to their SEC schedule, Vanderbilt has won four straight, capped by Tuesday's absolute homicide against the University of Kentucky. Not to be overlooked, John Pelphrey's team continues to shine while also winning four in a row. The Razorbacks are sitting pretty at 6-2 in the SEC. Can they continue this little tear over the remaining SEC games?
Worst Team of the Week - Teams that get beat by 40 points
This WAS going to go to LSU until UK showed up in Nashville. The ONLY silver lining to Tuesday's debacle? UK is still 6-3 in conference play, however, this could quickly fall below .500 if the Vandy game was a sign of things to come. In lighter news, at least they don't have to worry about going to the Big Dance... unless they win the SEC Tournament.
Player of the Week - Chris Lofton
Apparently, those early season snubs have angered the diminutive shooting guard from Maysville, Kentucky. So what does he do? Comes out and has his two best weeks of his senior season. In two wins last week (Florida, LSU), Lofton scored a total of 41 points and in his last seven games is shooting 34 for 67 from the 3-point arc.
The question is, will Mr. Lofton continue his torrid play or will someone knock him out of this spot next week?
Games to Watch:
(Sorry I didn't get this up in time for Wednesday's games)
2/16 - Kentucky at LSU
2/16 - Florida at Vanderbilt
2/16 - Tennessee at Georgia
2/16 - Arkansas at Mississippi State [ESPN] 4:00
2/16 - Auburn at Ole Miss
2/16 - Alabama at South Carolina
2/19 - Georgia at Kentucky [ESPN] 9:00
2/20 - LSU at Arkansas
2/20 - South Carolina at Florida
Friday, February 8, 2008
SEC Basketball Coaches Now Facing Same Unrealistic Demands as the Football Coaches
Wednesday, February 6, 2008
STF Conference Reports: SEC 2/6
Word, word. How is everyone? Another good week in the, according to Dick Vitale, apparently down SEC. Whatever, Dick. I see you wasted no time testing out whether or not those surgically-repaired vocals can handle smoke-blowing, aye? Actually, considering just how strong Florida has been and their subsequent personnel losses, yes, the SEC is not where it was last year or the year before.
But, don't let teams like Ole Miss, Vanderbilt, Arkansas, Tennessee and Mississippi State know that—although, now that I say that, all of the teams mentioned BUT Tennessee have had hit-and-miss games during the first half of their SEC campaign.
Nevertheless, I expect the SEC to field at least six teams (Florida being the sixth) and if Kentucky can continue their resurgence, maybe even seven, although, UK's road is far from easy. Oh well. Enough of that. On with the update:
Team of the Week - Tennessee
While Arkansas deserves some credit here as well, Bruce Pearl's team went 2-0 during two road games last week; at Alabama and at Mississippi State. At the time, MSU was one of the hotter teams in America, going 9-1 before these two back-to-back losses.
Tennessee used good rebounding, a balanced attack and Chris Lofton's excelsior shooting to grab the outright lead in the SEC East with a 6-1 record.
Honorable Mention: South Carolina. The Gamecocks overcame a bad previous week to also go undefeated this past week with victories over Georgia at home and Ole Miss on the road. Perhaps the Gamecocks can make a mid-to-late season surge and send Coach Odom out on a hight note.
Worst Team of the Week - Mississippi State
After grabbing the nation's attention by winning 9 out of 10, the Bulldogs backslid last week with two losses, the aforementioned Tennessee loss in Starkville and getting absolutely pummeled in Fayetteville by John Pelphrey and his suddenly-relevant Arkansas Razorbacks by 20 points.
Deciding the SEC West looks like it's going to be a lot of fun.
Player of the Week - Chris Lofton
You knew he'd show up here sooner or later and if he repeats this kind of week again, it'll be hard to keep him away. Lofton led his Volunteers during their undefeated week with the kind of shooting we've come to expect. In those two victories, Lofton was 9-18 from behind the arc, while shooting 14-25 overall. He was also 6-6 from the foul line during last week and his scoring totals were 20 and 23, respectively.
The SEC presented their weekly award to Sonny Weems and after looking at why, it's hard not to argue... but, Lofton, in my eyes, was the story.
Of course, they both almost lost this distinction to Kentucky's Joe Crawford, who had 26 huge points (5-5 from behind the arc) against Georgia on Saturday. Bonus: he was playing on one good leg as he was struggling with cramps and plantar fasciitis. If Crawford would've had a second game to fall back on (UK only played once this past week), he would have certainly challenged for this award.
Alas, congrats are certainly in order for Lofton (and Weems).
Games to Watch:
Last Night - Florida at Tennessee [ESPN] 9:00
2/6 - Vanderbilt at Georgia
2/6 - Alabama at Mississippi State
2/6 - Kentucky at Auburn
2/9 - Alabama at Kentucky
2/9 - Tennessee at LSU
2/9 - Georgia at Florida
2/9 - Ole Miss at Arkansas
2/9 - Vanderbilt at South Carolina
2/9 - Mississippi State at Auburn
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
STF Conference Reports: SEC 1/29
What up, peeps? It was a busy week for the SEC and although it's still a little early, the cream is starting to rise. Florida looks like they aren't going to miss a beat even though every starter from their repeat champion teams are gone. Tennessee has also announced they are going to be a major player in the SEC (even with the UK loss) and if Florida falters, the Vols will be waiting to snatch the East.
In the West, the Magnolia State is represented nicely as Ole Miss and Mississippi State have been playing well (Chris' note: Mississippi State is 9-1 in their last ten games); although a 20-point Bulldog victory against the Rebels this past Sunday dims Ole Miss' bulb some.
Other teams that have started playing well include Arkansas and UK, both at 3-2. It's shaping up for another competitive SEC Conference battle, something I'm sure everyone here will appreciate. On with the update:
Team(s) of the Week - Florida, Kentucky
Both the Gators and the Cats went 2-0 last week and both teams answered some questions about themselves. Florida proved their youth will not deter them from trying to grab the SEC crown again. Victories over South Carolina and Vanderbilt (who Florida DESTROYED) proves Billy Donovan isn't just the sum of his previous two-season perfect storm. Currently, Florida leads the East at 5-1.
As for Kentucky, is this the time for UK fans to start believing again? With two victories over Tennessee and South Carolina (both at Rupp Arena), the Cats are trying to prove they are not the same team that gave up some of the most embarrassing losses the program has ever experienced. Can UK keep this run going or will they "come back to earth?" Now that Billy Gillispie looks like he's solidifying his rotation, the Cats seem to be playing with more confidence. We'll see if it continues.
Worst Team of the Week - South Carolina
After losses to UK and Florida (at South Carolina), Dave Odom's final year of coaching is proving to be a challenging one as SEC Conference play takes over their schedule and according the Gamecock fan I overheard Saturday (in a Kansas City sports bar, no less), his retirement is not coming quickly enough. Can South Carolina rally for a strong finish and send Coach Odom out with some level of achievement?
Player of the Week - Ramel Bradley
Again, I'm going to agree with the SEC here and award this little designation to Billy Gillispie's lead guard, "Smoove." Against USC, Bradley had 26 points and 10 big rebounds while going 5-5 from the 3-point line. Against UT, "Brooklyn" had 16 points and 6 rebounds. Also, during this 2-game stretch, Ramel was 15-16 from the free-throw line. He leads the SEC in FT percentage at 86.9%. In case you are wondering, Ramel is an aspiring music artist as well.
Games to Watch:
1/29 - Tennessee at Alabama [ESPN] 9:00
1/30 - Mississippi State at Arkansas
2/2 - Kentucky at Georgia [CBS] 1:00
2/2 - LSU at Alabama
2/2 - Florida at Arkansas
2/2 - South Carolina at Ole Miss
2/2 - Auburn at Vanderbilt
2/2 - Tennessee at Mississippi State
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
STF Conference Reports: SEC 1/23
We are two weeks into conference play and what have we learned? Tennessee, Florida, Mississippi State and Ole Miss appear to be head-and-shoulders above the conference... at least this week, anyway. We've also learned there are a lot of average teams playing the SEC because after the top four, you see a number of conference records looking like this:
2-2, 1-2, 0-4.
While the 2-2 teams are not out of it yet (Yes, this includes you, Vanderbilt. Hot starts don't mean a damn thing if you can't sustain them.), they need to start stringing together some quality wins before we get much further along on the schedule. Remember folks, March is only a few weeks away.
As for Kentucky, well, tonight will tell us a lot more about them (editor's note: they beat #5 Tennessee between the time Chris sent this and when we got it posted). After two grueling road losses last week, they host Bruce Pearl and his talented Volunteers on ESPN (9pm EST) tonight. If UK spits the bit again, it's time to start planning for next season.
Now admittedly, 1-3 starts in conference play can be salvaged, but the team in question would need confidence and talent. UK is kinda short on both areas. Anyway, I'm digressing. On with the update:
Team of the Week - Mississippi State Bulldogs
Riding the red-hot play of Jamont Gordon and Jarvis Varnado's sterling shot-blocking skills (are you taking notes, Perry Stevenson?), the Bulldogs find themselves atop the SEC West at 4-0. Rick Stansbury finds his team also riding an 8-game winning streak, making them the hottest team in the SEC not named Tennessee (11-game winning streak). This week, the Bulldogs host Andy Kennedy's surprising Ole Miss Rebels for one of the marquee match-ups in the SEC West.
Worst Team of the Week - Kentucky and LSU
After getting conference play off to a good start with a double-overtime win against Vanderbilt, Kentucky lost their next two to Mississippi State and Florida, both of which were road games. While the Cats never quit in either loss, they could never get over the hump. Word is sophomore Jodie Meeks is close to 100%, but will he be enough to right the Wildcat ship?
In Baton Rogue, Louisiana State looks like the opposite of their championship football counterparts, delivering one of the worst starts in John Brady's tenure at 7-11 (0-4 in the SEC). With convincing losses to Auburn and Vandy last week, the Tigers are bringing up the rear in the SEC.
Player of the Week - Jamont Gordon
I'm going to agree with the folks from the SEC on this, although, Jarvis Varnado deserves a look as well... especially for his triple-double against UK last Tuesday (10 points, 12 rebounds and 10 blocks). Last week, Gordon averaged 24.0 points, 6.5 rebounds and 5.0 assists in victories over Alabama and Kentucky. Gordon was also acknowledged as the SEC Player of the Week and with numbers like that, it's pretty easy to see why.
Games to Watch:
1/22 - Tennessee at Kentucky [ESPN] 9:00pm
1/23 - Florida at South Carolina
1/26 - South Carolina at Kentucky
1/26 - Auburn at Alabama
1/26 - Ole Miss at Mississippi State
1/26 - Georgia at Tennessee
1/26 - Arkansas at LSU
1/27 - Vanderbilt at Florida
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
STF Conference Reports: SEC 1/15
Well folks, the first week of the SEC did not disappoint. But what did we learn? Well, we learned that young Gators can be good Gators; we learned Ole Miss could very well be for real after a tough road loss in Knoxville last Tuesday; we learned that UK still has some pride and finally, we learned Auburn and LSU appear to bringing up the rear of the SEC West... at least for now.
However, did these things signify coming trends or did a team like Kentucky just happen to catch Vanderbilt on a bad day (you have no idea how weird it feels even suggesting that) when they ended the Commodores' winning streak?
Also, how good are the Gators really? Can Billy Donovan's young team keep their hot start up (15-2) or will SEC road woes catch up with them? Well, if their game against Alabama in Tuscaloosa earlier last week was any indication, the Gators are going to be a tough team for all opponents. On with the report:
Team of the Week - Tennessee Volunteers
Bruce Pearl's team started the week with a tough match-up against Andy Kennedy and his Ole Miss Rebels, a team that began the season by going 13-0. Many people undoubtedly started the game wondering if the Rebels were for real, but after their 85-83 loss, these questions have quited.
Now with the Volunteers, their hot start seems to validate Tennessee's preseason rankings. Pearl has his team playing good basketball and with the talent they have, the Vols should be in a position to make a deep run when tournament time arrives. Besides beating Ole Miss, Tennessee traveled to South Carolina and beat them by the score of 80-56. Tennessee is currently 2-0 in SEC play. Can it continue?
Worst Team of the Week - Auburn, LSU, and South Carolina
Why three? Because all of the above teams saw the beginning of their SEC play tip-off with a roaring 0-2 start. LSU lost at Ole Miss Saturday by the score of 74-71, but their most damning result was last Tuesday when they lost to the Mississippi State Bulldogs, at home, by the score of 61-39. South Carolina had losses on the road at Vanderbilt and at home to Tennessee. Rounding out this designation is Auburn, who lost at home to Arkansas and on the road to Florida. Injuries have absolutely killed the Tigers.
Player of the Week - Nick Calathes
This week, the POW award is a little bit of a toss-up. The SEC officially selected JaJaun Smith of Tennessee and there is absolutely no argument here. Smith averaged 18 points for the Vols during last week's two-game winning streak. However, Bruce Pearl has a lot of talent at his disposal and furthermore, anytime a team relies on a freshman to help them win, especially on the road, said freshman gets the nod from me.
In two game last weeks (both wins for UF), Calathes posted averages of 18.5 points, 3.5 rebounds and 7.0 assists. In the Gators' win against Alabama last Tuesday (kicking off SEC Conference play), Calathes had 21 points, 9 assists, and 7 rebounds.
Games to Watch:
01/15 - Kentucky at Mississippi State (ESPN) - 9:00pm
01/16 - Florida at Ole Miss
01/17 - Vanderbilt at Tennessee (ESPN) - 7:00pm
01/19 - Mississippi State at Alabama
01/19 - Ohio State at Tennessee (CBS) - 3:30pm
01/19 - Kentucky at Florida (ESPN) - 9:00pm
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
STF Conference Reports: SEC
As a UK fan that's used to being the start and finish of all SEC discussions, it's kind of a weird time for me. As we all know, UK is struggling mightily right now and enters SEC play of--gasp--not being one of the favorites. In fact, the Wildcats of Kentucky will need at least at 10-6 SEC campaign, followed by a strong SEC Tournament showing to even start thinking about an NCAA Tournament appearance. Of course, if the Louisville game was anything to go by, UK won't be 10-6 in the SEC...
Anyway, as the pre-conference season winds down, it's apparent some prognostications may have to be changed. Is Tennessee still the clear-cut favorite in the SEC East or will Vanderbilt be a thorn in their sides all season long? Is Ole Miss for real? Can they maintain their incredibly hot start as the SEC tips off?
Because this week signifies the start of the SEC, I'm going to do some things a little different this week, but don't worry, I'll be back in the standard format after today:
Hottest Team Going Into Conference Play - Vanderbilt
With their surprising 15-0 start to the season, the Commodores look like they are capable of challenging for the outright SEC title. Head coach Kevin Stallings has a better-than-advertised roster, led by Shan Foster and potential newcomer of the year, A.J. Ogilvy. Foster, with already three SEC Player of the Week awards, is also a favorite for the SEC Player of Year award.
Besides Vanderbilt, Tennessee has 12-1 record and has been playing well of late. Recent victories over Xavier and Gonzaga indicate Coach Pearl and his Vols are ready for conference play. Florida also boasts a 13-2 record but young teams often struggle when the conference kicks off. Can Florida avoid these pitfalls?
In the West, be sure to watch out for the aforementioned Ole Miss (13-0???? Who knew?) and Arkansas (11-3). Auburn and Alabama have also had decent non-SEC results and look to challenge in a wide-open SEC West.
Hottest Player - Shan Foster, Vanderbilt
Where, oh where are thou, Chris Lofton. Surely you won't let a Vandy guard beat you for SEC POY honors... As mentioned above, Foster already has three SEC POW awards and is the only SEC player who has repeated in this selection so far.
Coldest Team - KENTUCKY!!!11!1!!1!1!!
That's right folks, the flagship school of the SEC (look it up if you doubt me) is in need of a huge conference showing, but it doesn't look like the Cats have the horses to do so. Teams like Vandy and Tennessee appear to be clearly better than UK, as the Cats struggle to adjust to Billy Gillispie's approach. UK gets a immediate chance to hush some of their critics this coming Saturday when they host the undefeated Commodores. It's probably not going to be pretty as the Cats will, in all likelihood, lose their fifth straight against Kevin Stallings and company.
Besides UK, LSU enters conference play needing to make a splash as well. However, unlike Kentucky, at least Louisiana State can boast that they are still hovering right at the .500 mark. UK is the only team in the SEC to start conference play with a losing record...
Games To Watch
There are a lot of them this week, so stay tuned:
1/8 Florida at Alabama - ESPN, 7:00
1/9 Georgia Tech at Georgia
1/9 Mississippi State at LSU
1/9 South Carolina at Vanderbilt
1/9 Ole Miss at Tennessee
1/10 Arkansas at Auburn - ESPN 2, 8:00
1/12 Auburn at Florida
1/12 Vanderbilt at Kentucky - CBS, 1:30
1/12 Georgia at Mississippi State
1/12 LSU at Ole Miss
1/12 Tennessee at South Carolina
OK folks, that's it for me this week. Enjoy all the college roundball you can get your hands on. See you all next time.
Monday, December 17, 2007
STF Conference Reports: SEC 12/17
How do, folks? Chris here again with another look at the SEC Basketball conference. This past week was a slower week for the SEC with only 11 games, but there were a few worth noticing. The upcoming week promises a lot more games with school being out and teams are gearing up for conference play. And with that, let's get to our preview/review. Enjoy.
Team of the Week - Vanderbilt
That's right, the Commodores are making their second straight appearance here and with a sterling come-from-behind against DePaul earlier in the week, they certainly deserve it. Playing on the road, the Dores were trailing by 12 at halftime and fought back to take the game to overtime. From there, Vandy secured their undefeated start by beating the Blue Demons, 91-85. Kevin Stallings team is now 10-0 and have a great chance to begin SEC Conference play undefeated.
Player of the Week - Dan Werner, Florida Gators
Werner had 20 points and 14 boards to lead the defending National Champs over a 7-2 Georgia Southern team. Because of the lack of SEC games this week, the Florida sophomore almost wins the award by default. Without Werner's contributions, the Gators would have been upset by the Eagles. Instead, they find themselves sitting at 10-1.
Team with the Worst Week - Mississippi State
This award could have easily gone to UK for a second week in a row after they lost their third straight with a choke-worthy performance against UAB on Saturday. However, the Rick Stansbury's team lost 2 in a row this past week, 64-58 to the Hurricanes of Miami -- in Starkville -- and 71-67 to South Alabama. With these losses, Mississippi State is 5-5.
Games to Watch:
12/18 Kentucky at Houston - can UK stop their losing streak with a tough road game?
12/19 Baylor at South Carolina
12/19 LSU at Wichita State
12/20 Ole Miss at DePaul
12/22 Tennessee at Xavier
12/22 Oregon State at LSU
12/22 College of Charleston at South Carolina
12/22 Florida at Ohio State
12/22 Ole Miss vs. Clemson
Alright folks, that's about it for me. There are plenty of SEC games on the docket this week and we'll learn a lot more about the make-up of this conference. Is it down like some are suggesting (looks that way) or can the SEC field a competitive team or two when March rolls around? See you next week.
Monday, December 10, 2007
STF Conference Reports: The SEC
What's happening folks? This is Chris Richardson, your weekly SEC corespondent with my first-ever SEC update. A little about your guide: I recently moved to KC from Lexington, KY and I am a huge UK fan (and we suck right now). I'm the lead editor for IntentionalFoul.com and I write a weekly post for Epic Carnival.
Living in Lexington gave me extensive insight into the SEC but now I live in Big 12 country... oh well, that's what SECSports.com is for. Anyway, let's take a look at what's going on in the SEC:
Team of the Week - Vanderbilt - While the SEC didn't necessarily play the cream of the crop