Welcome March Madness

[GoMuskies]

The Patriot League Tournament tips off Monday night.

[xubrew]

Happy March Madness!!!!

We had three Ivy League teams knocked out over the weekend, along with an Atlantic Sun team, so the survive and advance portion of the season is now officially underway!!!!

http://hoopshd.com/2014/03/03/conference-tournament-viewing-guide-and-survival-board-monday-march-3/

[Muskie]

Is ESPN carrying the Patriot League Tourney?

[xubrew]

Not until the later rounds. It's being streamed on the PL website.

[paulxu]

You need to get out more often.

[xubrew]

You need to get out more often.

That's what the spring and summer are for.

I don't exactly live in the world's most happening place.

[GoMuskies]

I see FGCU starts their efforts at a second run tonight agains the Hatters. Dunk City was pretty bad early on, but they've been playing pretty well of late (ignore that 20 point loss to Lipscomb last week). I know 'brew's more of a Mercer man, and those two seem destined for what should be one of the better low major title clashes.

Our old friends in the Horizon also get going tomorrow night. Still a pretty decent mid-major league, and UW-GB is getting back to its Dick Bennett days. With a 52 RPI (per ESPN) and only one significant OOC win (UVA, which is pretty damned significant), I think UW-GB is hosed if they don't get it done on their home court this week (and into next; championship is not until next Tuesday).

[X-band '01]

Is ESPN carrying the Patriot League Tourney?

CBS Sports Network has had their championship game for a couple of years now.

[xubrew]

I see FGCU starts their efforts at a second run tonight agains the Hatters. Dunk City was pretty bad early on, but they've been playing pretty well of late (ignore that 20 point loss to Lipscomb last week). I know 'brew's more of a Mercer man, and those two seem destined for what should be one of the better low major title clashes.

Our old friends in the Horizon also get going tomorrow night. Still a pretty decent mid-major league, and UW-GB is getting back to its Dick Bennett days. With a 52 RPI (per ESPN) and only one significant OOC win (UVA, which is pretty damned significant), I think UW-GB is hosed if they don't get it done on their home court this week (and into next; championship is not until next Tuesday).

There has not been a point in either this season or last season where I felt FGCU was better than Mercer. I was genuinely surprised when they won the ASun championship game at Mercer last year, and I still think what they did after that was the biggest surprise in the history of the tournament. I still think Mercer is better, but because they crapped the bed down the stretch, they ended up tying, and losing some sort of bizarre tiebreaker, so FGCU now has home court advantage. And, they'll probably win the tournament.

I agree about Green Bay. Had things gone differently in that game back in November against Wisconsin, I don't think they'd have to win the Horizon League Tournament. I don't think it'd be close, actually. They led the entire game, and ended up losing by 2pts. Still, as an out right first place finisher they have a huge procedural advantage, because they essentially they start off in the tournament and have to be voted out, as opposed to non-first place finishers that start out needing to be voted in, but I still don't think they get in without the automatic bid. Having said that, if they do get in, they're a tough team to beat in the round of 64. The rest of the league pretty much sucks.

[xubrew]

If you're not watching the opening round of the Big South conference tournament at work right now, you're not a true college hoops fan.

[GoMuskies]

Big win for Kelsey and Co.

[xubrew]

Liberty's reign of terror over the big south tournament is over!!!!

Pat kelsey for man of the year!!!

[GoMuskies]

So is next year the year Kelsey finally starts getting things done at Gregg Marshall U? Pretty decent year this year, but he's got to do better than this to move up the ladder.

[paulxu]

The Upstate of South Carolina is a hotbed of college hoops! (tongue firmly planted)

In addition to Winthrop, right here in Spartanburg we have USC Upstate, who won their first round game and advanced to play Mercer in a semi-final of the Atlantic Sun Conference. The Spartans have only been in Div. 1 for a few years, and are in 3rd place in the conference, very much like Xavier, behind Mercer and Florida Gulf Coast.

And of course the Wofford Terriers, whose coach just won coach of the year in the Southern Conference and are also in third place behind Davidson and Chattanooga. Doing well with one senior and a freshman point guard. Davidson should win this one though without much problem.

[LadyMuskie]

I love this time of year! The buzz of excitement in the air, the beginning of spring, so much on the line for these teams. I just love March Madness! Best time of year for sports!

[GoMuskies]

I appreciate the spirit of a team like Presbbyterian this time of year. They came in 6-25 and trailed 20-11 Radford by 15 points with 5:45 to play. They rallied to cut the lead to 1 with 27 seconds left and had a three-point shot with 7 seconds left that would have tied the game. I like to see a time fight to the end.

[xubrew]

Exciting win for Army in the Patriot League. They'll play Boston U on Friday.

I agree with GO about the level of fight in these games. You get to keep playing until you lose, but once you lose, you're done. You do see some excitement, even in conferences like the Big South and Patriot League.

Bryant lost a heartbreaker to SFPA. Bryant is strange. They always seem to be better than what you think, but only until you think they're good. Then they start losing and are never as good as you think they should be.

[GoMuskies]

I'm a bit concerned about the fact that this weekend's Valley Tournament is more important to Xavier than it is to Wichita State.

By the way, great finish last night between Loyola and Bradley. Man, for Bradley that had to be a devastating way to end a season.

[throwbackmuskie]

So is next year the year Kelsey finally starts getting things done at Gregg Marshall U? Pretty decent year this year, but he's got to do better than this to move up the ladder.

Pat may get to follow in his foot steps again, to Wichita....

[GoMuskies]

Pat may get to follow in his foot steps again, to Wichita....

Marshall's gonna have to hang around a few more years for Kelsey to do enough to qualify for the Wichita State job.

[throwbackmuskie]

Marshall's gonna have to hang around a few more years for Kelsey to do enough to qualify for the Wichita State job.

I am hoping Marshall is gonethis year, praying our dumb butt coach resigns today.

[RealDeal]

I am hoping Marshall is gonethis year, praying our dumb butt coach resigns today.

Sense this makes none.

[throwbackmuskie]

Sense this makes none.

I will translate for you. Hoping Frank Martin resigns today, Marshall then will finally get the job he has always wanted.

[RealDeal]

I will translate for you. Hoping Frank Martin resigns today, Marshall then will finally get the job he has always wanted.

Thanks.

[GoMuskies]

I predict that there is a 0% chance Marshall leaves WSU for South Carolina. Maybe less.

[GoMuskies]

HUGE win for Kelsey and Co. today. Winning 3 at the buzzer to knock off High Point and move into the Big South semifinals.

[throwbackmuskie]

I predict that there is a 0% chance Marshall leaves WSU for South Carolina. Maybe less.

Well considering he was gunning hard for the job two years ago....SC is his dream job. For some reason we passed on him twice, never understood that. Anyway, would like to see them make a run again at the FF.

[GoMuskies]

Two years ago he wasn't the hottest commodity in the coaching world. Those guys don't go to South Carolina to coach basketball. I firmly believe Marshall's the type to hold a grudge, too. If he really did want that job two years ago and they picked that loon Frank Martin over him, I would be surprised if he had any interest in going to Columbia to do anythng other than kick the Cocks up and down the floor with his Wichita State team.

[throwbackmuskie]

Two years ago he wasn't the hottest commodity in the coaching world. Those guys don't go to South Carolina to coach basketball. I firmly believe Marshall's the type to hold a grudge, too. If he really did want that job two years ago and they picked that loon Frank Martin over him, I would be surprised if he had any interest in going to Columbia to do anythng other than kick the Cocks up and down the floor with his Wichita State team.

He did want it bad. If offered he would take it. Money talks. The fans still want him. Hiring Martin was just plain horrible. but anyway.

[GoMuskies]

He did want it bad. If offered he would take it.

We'll have to agreed to disagree.

But you're wrong. :smile:

On money, BTW, I'm sure South Carolina can pay whatever ridiculously high number they want, but Marshall does make $1.75 million/year at Wichita State guaranteed for 7 more years. And that was before he went 31-0 (wait 32-0). So for money to talk, it will have to be HUGE.

[casualfan]

There's no way Marshall has been turning down jobs the last few years waiting for the South Carolina job to open up. That just makes no sense.

[xubrew]

I predict that there is a 0% chance Marshall leaves WSU for South Carolina. Maybe less.

Less. Definitely less.


HUGE win for Kelsey and Co. today. Winning 3 at the buzzer to knock off High Point and move into the Big South semifinals.

Heartbreaking for High Point. Not even a week ago they were storming the court after beating Campbell because they clinched first place. And, yunno, I guess it's not every day that you beat...uhh....Campbell.

They are our first team to clinch an NIT berth, though.

[throwbackmuskie]

Marshall is from SC, it is his dream job. The last AD didn't want to give him 7 years. He then hired Martin. Been following Marshall for the last 7 years. When he first should haev been hired, but we hired Horn, another BIG mistake. problem is SC small timed him in the past. New AD now, if they made him the offer he deserves he would go to SC.

http://www.garnetandblackattack.com/2014/2/27/5454078/kent-babb-interviews-gregg-marshall

[GoMuskies]

Dreams change. Out of curiousity, how much do you think South Carolina would be willing to pay Marshall? I'm thinking it would take $4MM+ per year for him to even consider making that move.

[xubrew]

If South Carolina was really Marshall's dream job, he'd be there now. It's my understanding that they were willing to make him an offer, and he asked for way more than what they offered, and what anyone could reasonably expect to get. I can't imagine he would have balked at their offer if it really was his dream job.

[GoMuskies]

Yeah, the article posted quotes Marshall as saying "Ha Ha Ha" when contacted in '12. In '14, it would likely be "HA! HA! HA! I'm having trouble breathing here. No, you were serious. HA! HA! HA!"

[throwbackmuskie]

Yeah, the article posted quotes Marshall as saying "Ha Ha Ha" when contacted in '12. In '14, it would likely be "HA! HA! HA! I'm having trouble breathing here. No, you were serious. HA! HA! HA!"

Old AD. New AD would PAY him, he would go.

[GoMuskies]

How much do you think it would take?

[throwbackmuskie]

How much do you think it would take?

Well Martin is getting $2.1M a year. Marshall is getting $1.75M.

[GoMuskies]

Well Martin is getting $2.1M a year. Marshall is getting $1.75M.

Go on.

[throwbackmuskie]

Go on.

Get to go home, and the job you always wanted. with SEC Network $$, SC can and would pay even more.

[GoMuskies]

You know they'd have to pay a lot more than $2.1 million, right? Like, a LOT more.

And at some point, I'm guessing Wichita kind of became home for him. It IS home for his kids. Guy's mayor of this town, and that would never be true with Steve Spurrier (or any football coach frankly) in town in Columbia.

Listen, I know you need hope as a Gamecock basketball fan, because there's not much else (other than the promise of coming spring football practice and baseball being in full swing). But I think you're going to be really, really disappointed if you're hanging your hat on Gregg Marshall taking that job.

[GoMuskies]

I kind of like The Citadel to beat UNC-G today. Down 13-11 early. They're 6-25 but "riding" a two game win streak.

[throwbackmuskie]

You know they'd have to pay a lot more than $2.1 million, right? Like, a LOT more.

And at some point, I'm guessing Wichita kind of became home for him. It IS home for his kids. Guy's mayor of this town, and that would never be true with Steve Spurrier (or any football coach frankly) in town in Columbia.

Listen, I know you need hope as a Gamecock basketball fan, because there's not much else (other than the promise of coming spring football practice and baseball being in full swing). But I think you're going to be really, really disappointed if you're hanging your hat on Gregg Marshall taking that job.

Lol this goes to show you know nothing about South Carolina. They will pay him if they want him. He will get to come home a hero once he turns things around. Fan support would be unreal, have seen it. The women's team has 10k at their last home game. All the coaches are mayors of Columbia. Even dawn staley, why you think she turned down Ohio st? The support for men's basketball is there, an 18k seat area is ready to be full again. And at the end of the day home is home and the sec is better than the mvc.

[Muskie]

South Carolina loves their sports. Each and every one of them. Seen it first hand when my Wife lived there.

[GoMuskies]

sec is better than the mvc.

See now THAT is just crazy talk. :lol:

[paulxu]

As noted a couple of days ago, Martin was due to implode. (maybe if I forecast Xavier to win big in MSG it would help?)
I heard his press conference this afternoon and he faced his anger issues square on, took all responsibility and of course promised to improve.
He seemed pretty self aware of his problems, so hopefully he gets it squared away.

Yes, we love our sports here in South Carolina; especially football. Check with OSU or Wisconsin on that. (Or Clemson for that matter.)

[xubrew]

Well Martin is getting $2.1M a year. Marshall is getting $1.75M.


Get to go home, and the job you always wanted. with SEC Network $$, SC can and would pay even more.

So South Carolina isn't really his dream job. It's just that they may be willing to offer him is dream salary and contract.

Like I said, he had the chance to go there, and didn't go.

[GoMuskies]

'brew, I need props from you on my Citadel/UNCG call. No one else on the board would appreciate that but you.

[scohioboy]

[QUOTE=xubrew;436476]So South Carolina isn't really his dream job. It's just that they may be willing to offer him is dream salary and contract.

Like I said, he had the chance to go there, and didn't

[X-band '01]

Sunday will have a riveting rematch between FL-Gulf Coast and Mercer. Do we cheer for FGCU so they don't steal an NIT bid?

[xubrew]

'brew, I need props from you on my Citadel/UNCG call. No one else on the board would appreciate that but you.

I didn't get to see much of it. It sucks, because sometimes I actually have to do work at work. The Citadel only won four or five games all year. So, yes, props are in order if you called it.

[xubrew]

The one thing that is sort of bitter sweet about March Madness is that the season just sort of erodes away. I love it, but I almost like November more because it is the largest expanse of college basketball before it's all over.

You gotta scroll down a little bit, but we're down to 285....

http://hoopshd.com/2014/03/07/conference-tournament-video-notebook-viewing-guide-survival-board-bracket-rundown-and-live-from-the-maac-friday-march-7/

[throwbackmuskie]

So South Carolina isn't really his dream job. It's just that they may be willing to offer him is dream salary and contract.

Like I said, he had the chance to go there, and didn't go.

Would you take a major pay cut? He gets the offer he will go

[xubrew]

Would you take a major pay cut? He gets the offer he will go

I don't think it would have been a pay cut. It just wasn't as much as he asked for.

[xubrew]

Harvard is about to be the first team to officially make the field. The Ivy is the only conference without a tournament. I never like to see the best/most deserving team from a conference not make the NCAA Tournament because they lost one game in a conference tournament. But, at the same time, not having a conference tournament makes OOC play virtually meaningless. I'm not a fan of that either. People are probably sick of me saying this, but I really like that November basketball is important. Teams from weaker leagues who play well out of conference don't need to win the conference tournament. Watching Harvard early in the year play against teams like Colorado, Green Bay and UConn wasn't nearly as fun because Harvard really didn't need the wins to play their way inside the bubble anyway.

[xubrew]

Belmont is pretty damn good. No one is talking about them for an at-large bid, but stranger things have happened. They have some ugly losses, but they were without two key starters for most of them. This is also their 19th game away from home (sort of. They're playing in their own city), and it will be their 12th win away from home. They also won at North Carolina and at Middle Tennessee. Winning at Middle Tennessee may not sound like a big deal, but they only lost one other home game, and the committee does notice things like that.

I think they'll win tomorrow and it won't be a big deal, but this is a really good Belmont team that no one is talking about or noticing, especially when you consider they left two of their best players behind when they suffered their two worst losses to Denver and South Dakota State.

[The_Mack_Pack]

Would not be shocked at all to see a team like Harvard or Belmont (assuming they make it) get to a Sweet 16 this season. Green Bay and North Dakota State are a couple more teams to keep an eye on.

[xsteve1]

Everybody always seems to have Belmont as some bracket buster but they always crap the bed and are 0-6 in NCAA tourney appearances.

[xubrew]

Everybody always seems to have Belmont as some bracket buster but they always crap the bed and are 0-6 in NCAA tourney appearances.

Very true. But, I was thinking of them being a possible at-large this year if they lose today to Eastern Kentucky. The committee gave them an #11 seed last year, which was two lines better than the last at-large teams. They do have the type of profile of teams the committee has taken before.

[xubrew]

Winthrop and the fighting Kelsey's are just one half away from the championship game.

[xsteve1]

West Virginia putting themselves back close to the bubble, kicking the crap out of Kansas.

[The_Mack_Pack]

West Virginia putting themselves back close to the bubble, kicking the crap out of Kansas.

Only 4 top 100 wins and horrible computer numbers, WV still has a longgg way to go before getting back on the bubble. Kansas getting slammed here pretty much gives Nova a great chance for a #1 seed though.

[SM#24]

Winthrop and the fighting Kelsey's are just one half away from the championship game.

In the championship game.

[LA Muskie]

In the championship game.
Go Kelsey!

[Masterofreality]

West Virginia putting themselves back close to the bubble, kicking the crap out of Kansas.


Only 4 top 100 wins and horrible computer numbers, WV still has a longgg way to go before getting back on the bubble. Kansas getting slammed here pretty much gives Nova a great chance for a #1 seed though.

Not at 17-14. They clinched the NIT today, tho.

[xubrew]

The Big South Tournament has been awesome. VMI comes up just short. Again.

I'd LOVE to see Army win the PL. They won't, but man wow that would be something.

[X-band '01]

Belmont certainly didn't start out their game looking like an NCAA team. They're down 32-24 (but started down 17-2).

[xubrew]

Belmont certainly didn't start out their game looking like an NCAA team. They're down 32-24 (but started down 17-2).

I really hope they win this game. I actually really like EKU, but I think it's possible the committee may take Belmont whether they win or not.

[xubrew]

This is not a good EKU team by NCAA Tournament standards. They're good by OVC standards, but they're not even good enough to stay within reach of an NCAA Tournament team for an entire game, let alone beat them.

Really disappointing showing for Belmont.

[X-band '01]

As I said before, if Ron Wellman is running the committee, anything is possible.

I know Belmont has wins against North Carolina on the road and Middle Tennessee State (another possible NCAA team), but I don't think they could survive losing the title game, especially one played in their hometown.

[xubrew]

Reread your first sentence, and then compare their profile to Iona from two years ago and Middle Tennessee from last year.

And keep in mind they were a first place finisher, which means they're automatically put before the committee for consideration.

[xsteve1]

As I said before, if Ron Wellman is running the committee, anything is possible.

I know Belmont has wins against North Carolina on the road and Middle Tennessee State (another possible NCAA team), but I don't think they could survive losing the title game, especially one played in their hometown.

No way Belmont gets in with a loss. They are like 104 in KenPom.

[The_Mack_Pack]

5 sub-100 losses to 3 top 100 wins. Wellman should fire himself if they give Belmont a bid.

[Masterofreality]

As I said before, if Ron Wellman is running the committee, anything is possible.

I know Belmont has wins against North Carolina on the road and Middle Tennessee State (another possible NCAA team), but I don't think they could survive losing the title game, especially one played in their hometown.

Irrelevant. Belmont is 103 in the Pomeroy rankings and 53 in RPI. One bid league.

[xubrew]

Irrelevant. Belmont is 103 in the Pomeroy rankings and 53 in RPI. One bid league.

That's better than Iona from two years ago.

They have better wins, and fewer bad losses, and the two of the bad losses they do have were without two of their starters.

I'm not saying Belmont is in. I'm saying they're going to be very closely looked at.

The Sun Belt is a league written off as a one bid league that got two bids last year.

I'm worried that they will take Belmont simply to prove a point. Since the inception of the First Four, one of the spots has seemingly gone to a team from a "one bid league."

[The_Mack_Pack]

That's better than Iona from two years ago.

They have better wins, and fewer bad losses, and the two of the bad losses they do have were without two of their starters.

I'm not saying Belmont is in. I'm saying they're going to be very closely looked at.

The Sun Belt is a league written off as a one bid league that got two bids last year.

I'm worried that they will take Belmont simply to prove a point.

That Iona team was in the 60's in Pomeroy and 48 in RPI.

[Masterofreality]

That's better than Iona from two years ago.

They have better wins, and fewer bad losses, and the two of the bad losses they do have were without two of their starters.

I'm not saying Belmont is in. I'm saying they're going to be very closely looked at.

The Sun Belt is a league written off as a one bid league that got two bids last year.

I'm worried that they will take Belmont simply to prove a point.

My, my Brew. You have become quite the contrarian. Belmont losing in their hometown is not a good look. NIT.

[xsteve1]

That's better than Iona from two years ago.

They have better wins, and fewer bad losses, and the two of the bad losses they do have were without two of their starters.

I'm not saying Belmont is in. I'm saying they're going to be very closely looked at.

The Sun Belt is a league written off as a one bid league that got two bids last year.

I'm worried that they will take Belmont simply to prove a point. Since the inception of the First Four, one of the spots has seemingly gone to a team from a "one bid league."

And that Iona squad embarrassed the committee with that selection.

[xubrew]

And that Iona squad embarrassed the committee with that selection.

I don't think anyone on that committee was embarrassed in the least. Who ever said they were embarrassed?? I believe Jim Hathaway was the chair that year, and he does and says embarrassing things on such a frequent basis that I believe he's immune to embarrassment. That Iona team wasn't even the last team in. Jim Hathaway actually said that on the post selection show. Besides, half the teams they pick don't win a game.

I'm not predicting that they'll take Belmont. I'm saying there is reason to think that they might. And please don't tell me you don't think they'll do something on the grounds that you think it's crazy. Just because something is crazy does not mean it won't be done.

[xubrew]

Gonzaga's profile is a great steaming pile of Donkey Shit.

They're team is a little better, but only a little.

Still, I think the committee takes them, but MAN would losing to Santa Clara hurt.

They've done nothing. Absolutely nothing. Yet, I think they may get in anyway.

[GoMuskies]

Looks like they're gonna get it done tonight anyway. They've mostly beaten the teams they were supposed to beat, many of whom they played on the road. 8 top 100 wins (all but one against like the top 64 if I remember correctly, and the WV win looks better today than it did yesterday). They look like your typical 8-9-10 seed to me.

[The_Mack_Pack]

Gonzaga's profile is a great steaming pile of Donkey Shit.

They're team is a little better, but only a little.

Still, I think the committee takes them, but MAN would losing to Santa Clara hurt.

They've done nothing. Absolutely nothing. Yet, I think they may get in anyway.

Gonzaga does the same thing every year. Play a decent non-con schedule to get the computer numbers up and then proceed to get a gaudy record by beating a bunch of dregs. Then proceed to lose early in the NCAA tournament.

[GoMuskies]

Wow, nice collapse Gonzaga.

[GoMuskies]

I'd like to see Xavier beat Gonzaga just once before I join in the bashing most of our fans engage in with the Zags. They crushed us on both ends of our home and home.

David Stockton acts like his daddy to avoid the bad loss.

[xubrew]

Gonzaga does the same thing every year. Play a decent non-con schedule to get the computer numbers up and then proceed to get a gaudy record by beating a bunch of dregs. Then proceed to lose early in the NCAA tournament.

What they did differently this year was that they didn't beat any of the decent teams they played. Other than West Virginia, who's decent now, but wasn't at the time.

They dodge a bullet by avoiding a bad loss tonight.

[xubrew]

I think Green Bay is really good. They led Wisconsin for most of the game before losing, and they've run roughshod over the HL. They also have a win against Virginia.

They're in a battle against Milwaukee right now. I'd hate to see them lose and not get in because I do think they're good, and I think it sucks when good teams get left out because they had a bad day in March after having great Januaries and Februaries.

....but....

Wright State plays the winner, and if Milwaukee wins, Wright State plays them at home. I love Wright State, and I want to see them get in.

So, I'm a hypocrite. I know that, I'm fine with it, and I'm still gonna sleep well tonight.

[GoMuskies]

The idiot talking heads on ESPN just said that UW-GB could be "this year's Florida Gulf Coast". Not really sure what to do with that (other than call them idiots like I already did).

[GoMuskies]

On a related note, why are Wright State and Cleveland State scheduled to play at 11:30 Eastern time (which will now be after midnight Eastern)?!?

Nevermind, I see now that is just a replay on the U.

[The_Mack_Pack]

I could see Green Bay stealing a bid if they lose.

[GoMuskies]

Green Bay was horrible in OT.

[Retire33]

I could see Green Bay stealing a bid if they lose.

They seem like the perfect First Four team. They feel like classic smaller conference first four alumni VCU, UAB, Iona, LaSalle, Boise St., St. Mary's, Middle Tennesee.

[The_Mack_Pack]

They seem like the perfect First Four team. They feel like classic smaller conference first four alumni VCU, UAB, Iona, LaSalle, Boise St., St. Mary's, Middle Tennesee.

That's what I was thinking too. I guess we'll see what the bracketologists think of it tomorrow.

[xubrew]

Green Bay was horrible in OT.

They really weren't good in regulation.

[GoMuskies]

Yes, but I only saw the OT. :smile:

[GoMuskies]

I just picked up Villanova at 22-1 to win the national title. I don't really expect Villanova to win a championship, but to get a team currently expected to be a #1 seed in a year where there's no clear favorite is a really great value in my opinion. The other projected #1 seeds are at 4.5-1 (Florida), 7-1 (Arizona) and 9-1 (Wichita State).

Xavier is 600-1. Ouch.

[paulxu]

i just picked up.....xavier is 600-1............ In a year where there's no clear favorite is a really great value in my opinion.


ftfy.

[Michigan Muskie]

I would take that Nova action at 22-1. The way they defend, they could absolutely win it all ... especially if they shoot it well.

[xubrew]

Maryland clinches what is most likely a home game in the NIT....and storms the court!!!

[xubrew]

Atlantic Sun delayed. Not sure why. Neither Mercer or FGCU have a shot in hell if they lose this game, but both are capable of putting a scare, and even beating a #4 seed caliber team.

Coastal finally wins the Big South, and will most likely be headed to Dayton.

[xubrew]

Had Mercer played like this all year, they wouldn't need to win today to get in. They blew it against Texas in the season opener after outplaying them for most of the game, and didn't really play well against Oklahoma either, and didn't show up for some of their conference games.

But, if they win today, they're in, and if they play as well as they're capable of playing, they can win a game in the round of 64.

[xsteve1]

Had Mercer played like this all year, they wouldn't need to win today to get in. They blew it against Texas in the season opener after outplaying them for most of the game, and didn't really play well against Oklahoma either, and didn't show up for some of their conference games.

But, if they win today, they're in, and if they play as well as they're capable of playing, they can win a game in the round of 64.

Mercer is definitely a team from a low major league that can pull an upset.

[xubrew]

Oh Mercer. Get up off your knees and stop blowing the game.

[xubrew]

The Trees are trying so hard. The problem is, they're just not good enough. They're staying with Wichita, but I'll be shocked if they actually pull off the upset.

[GoMuskies]

Everyone would be shocked. WSU is 33-0 and ranked #2. Odum just got screwed on that 4th foul call.

[Masterofreality]

Uh, oh....UMass. STL wins.

UMess the bed. Look out....Bubble City and dropping.

[xsteve1]

Uh, oh....UMass.

UMess the bed. Look out....Bubble City and dropping.

It would be in their best interest to win a game in the A10 tournament.

[GoMuskies]

15 point lead for WSU with 6 to go. 34-0 is basically inevitable now.

[xubrew]

If it holds up, Delaware v Towson will be a good game tomorrow. Towson is a great story. Two years ago they were 1-31, and were complete shit. Last year, they improved to 18-13 and looked as good as anyone in the Colonial at the end of the season, but were not allowed to play in the conference tournament due to low APR scores.

This year, they're eligible, there is a lot of buzz around the team, and I've love to see them make it. Pat Skerry has done a fantastic job with that team.

Delaware is pretty good as well. They should solidly be in the NIT if they don't win tomorrow. They're another team that could give a #4 seed fits. You may recall that they nearly beat Villanova earlier in the year.

[xubrew]

Exciting finish coming up in the ASun. I hope Mercer holds on.

[GoMuskies]

Go Dunk City!!!

[xubrew]

Go Dunk City!!!

At least they're going to the NIT because of stupid ASun tiebreakers that made them the first place finisher. I seriously doubt Mercer would have even made that field.

Speaking of stupid tiebreakers, did you see what the AAC did to declare UC the overall #1 team?? The ASun's wasn't THAT dumb.

[xubrew]

Uh, oh....UMass. STL wins.

UMess the bed. Look out....Bubble City and dropping.

I think UMass is alright.

Saint Joe's on the other hand......

[xubrew]

The America East is complete bullshit. They play the quarters and semis at a predetermined site, and the championship game is on the home court of the highest remaining seed.

Vermont is clearly the best team, and their reward is that they get to play the horrendously dressed Albany Great Danes at Albany in the semis.

[chico]

Delaware looked good today. If they win tomorrow they will give somebody serious trouble.

Watching Wichita win 40 would really be something - although 39-1 losing to a certain Big East team would be much nicer. I really hope the committee puts Wichita and Creighton in different brackets, though I wouldn't be surprised in the least to see Wichita as the 1 seed and Creighton the 3 in the same one.

[xubrew]

The America East is complete bullshit. They play the quarters and semis at a predetermined site, and the championship game is on the home court of the highest remaining seed.

Vermont is clearly the best team, and their reward is that they get to play the horrendously dressed Albany Great Danes at Albany in the semis.

DAMNIT VERMONT!!!

This is what keeps me up at night. I don't worry about the economy, or climate change, or going to war. What really keeps me up at night is conferences that stupidly manage their tournaments!!!

[X-band '01]

Or are you afraid of teams stealing NIT bids like Vermont? Xavier won't be shut out of both tournaments like last year.

[X-band '01]

At least they're going to the NIT because of stupid ASun tiebreakers that made them the first place finisher. I seriously doubt Mercer would have even made that field.

Speaking of stupid tiebreakers, did you see what the AAC did to declare UC the overall #1 team?? The ASun's wasn't THAT dumb.

Obviously the RPI was never a tiebreaker if they resorted to using a coin flip. On the other hand, UC does have the possibility of facing the hometown team Memphis in the semis should they beat UConn in Round 1. Gonna be tough to beat them a 3rd time.

Louisville, on the other hand, only has SMU on their half of the bracket. The coin flip is a pyrrhic victory in that regard for UC.

[xubrew]

Or are you afraid of teams stealing NIT bids like Vermont? Xavier won't be shut out of both tournaments like last year.

Xavier should make the NCAAs if they can win in the quarters, so I agree they won't be shut out of the NIT. Unless they choose not to play for some reason.

For the top conferences that routinely have multiple teams in position to get at-large bids, I couldn't care less how they do their tournaments. For a league like the America East, I think it's stupid to not do something to protect your first place finisher. I think it's beyond stupid to PUNISH your first place team by making them play a true road game.

I was kidding, of course. It doesn't actually keep me up at night. At the end of the day, if they win in November and December they won't need the automatic bid. But, I do think it's stupid, unfair and impractical. You want your best team in the tournament, and you want ot give them the best chance of getting there.

[xubrew]

Davidson has played their last ever SoCon game. Lost to WCU in overtime.

[xubrew]

Dear Denver, your game has started. It started an hour ago.

One of the biggest disappointments of the season has been Denver. I was among those that thought they'd be good enough to contend for an at-large bid back in November. Then the season started.

[paulxu]

That Svoboda fellow sure starts a lot of threads on this board.

[X-band '01]

That Svo-Bot fellow sure starts a lot of threads on this board.

Back in the old days, he would welcome each new member of the board with their very own thread.

[xubrew]

BILL.....

AND.....

MARY!!!!!!!!

This is GREAT stuff in the Colonial right now. Delaware has a chance of winning a game in the round of 64, and Bill & Mary is trying to play in their first ever round of 64. The game has been terrific.

[X-band '01]

Good one between William & Mary/Delaware in the CAA Championship; Tribe leads by 1 with 3:24 to play.

NBC Sports Network has this game going on right now.

[X-band '01]

What's amazing right now is listening to 2 close games - the CAA sounds like a championship game; the MAAC sounds like a morgue.

[xubrew]

What's amazing right now is listening to 2 close games - the CAA sounds like a championship game; the MAAC sounds like a morgue.

The MAAC Tournament is a good two hours from the closest school, which is a real shame. If this game were in Barkley's the lower bowl would be full and the place would be rocking.

FANTASTIC finish coming up in the CAA. Bill & Mary will either make their first NCAA ever, or their season will end. They're nowhere near the NIT.

[gladdenguy]

WHAT..................A.............GAME. Gut wrenching for Bill & Mary.

[xu82]

Good one between William & Mary/Delaware in the CAA Championship; Tribe leads by 1 with 3:24 to play.

NBC Sports Network has this game going on right now.

Let's just hope all the top seeds win out. We don't need to be passing out tickets to the Dance to a bunch of teams popping up out of nowhere to win their Tourney (other than us, of course).

[xubrew]

Great last play iona!!

[X-band '01]

WHAT..................A.............GAME. Gut wrenching for Bill & Mary.

Had about 10 seconds to get off a shot - wasn't meant to be for W/M. Even Delaware broke a long NCAA drought; Mike Brey was still coaching there the last time they went to the NCAA.


Great last play iona!!

Did I miss them Cluess the last shot?

[xubrew]

Had about 10 seconds to get off a shot - wasn't meant to be for W/M. Even Delaware broke a long NCAA drought; Mike Brey was still coaching there the last time they went to the NCAA.



Did I miss them Cluess the last shot?

They completely Cluessed the last shot, and the play that led to the shot. They had no motion at all, and ended up with their worst shooter taking an low percentage shot that was contested.

[xubrew]

That's a sickening feeling for W&M. Unless you win that last game, everyone will experience it, but it's especially sickening to be that close to something you've never been able to get, and then have it abruptly end. Unless they go to the CIT, they won't get to play in a postseason tournament.

The cheerleaders were crying. It may be the last game for some of them as well.

[paulxu]

Meanwhile up in Asheville, Wofford is trying to get in the dance playing Western Carolina.

[xubrew]

Meanwhile up in Asheville, Wofford is trying to get in the dance playing Western Carolina.

Good intensity, and bad shooting, in this game.

[Muskie]

Wofford up by 9

[Muskie]

Am I rooting for Western Carolina ?

[gladdenguy]

Here comes Western Carolina!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[paulxu]

Wofford giving game away with missing layups and not blocking out.

[xubrew]

Mike Young is a good coach.

With that said, he always seems to do two things at the end of the game that I don't understand when he has the lead and not the ball.

He calls timeout, and when he's up three, he doesn't foul. He gives the other team a time out and a chance to set up a play instead of forcing a haphazard situation.

That being said, they did win.

[XUFan09]

Back in the old days, he would welcome each new member of the board with their very own thread.

And if the new poster ended up being an asshole who later got banned, people would post to that thread ripping on him.

[xsteve1]

Mike Young is a good coach.

With that said, he always seems to do two things at the end of the game that I don't understand when he has the lead and not the ball.

He calls timeout, and when he's up three, he doesn't foul. He gives the other team a time out and a chance to set up a play instead of forcing a haphazard situation.

That being said, they did win.

He got burned by X a few years ago in that 3 OT game when McLean tipped in that missed Dante Jackson free throw after Wofford fouled up 3. That may be why he is hesitant to do it now.

[paulxu]

Wofford's an interesting little school. They beat us last year over the break by 1. Somehow Young (who took over from a long time coach a few years ago) ended up with one senior this year who only averages 1.5 pts a game. So it's a real young team. It's also a very small and highly academic place, much like Xavier in the A10. Big state schools in conference also.

The conference is imploding with CofC gone, and Davidson and Ga Southern leaving next year. If you live in Spartanburg they are a real success story, and I think this is his 3rd trip in 5 years. Very X like. And yes, I took a LOT of heat when they won last year.

[GoMuskies]

One of the guys I work with has a daughter who plays PG for Denver U. They went 7-22 in the regular season, but they've pulled off two upsets in the Summit League Tournament to reach the finals. The #4 seed South Dakota knocked off #1 seed South Dakota State in the other semi, so Denver has a legitimate chance of winning today. Some of us in the office are taking a late lunch to watch the game (starts at 1 Central).

What's kind of amusing, though, is the "prize" they are playing for. At 10-22, they would clearly be the #64 team in the women's NCAA Tournament. That means a first round massacre against UConn would await.

[ammtd34]

One of the guys I work with has a daughter who plays PG for Denver U. They went 7-22 in the regular season, but they've pulled off two upsets in the Summit League Tournament to reach the finals. The #4 seed South Dakota knocked off #1 seed South Dakota State in the other semi, so Denver has a legitimate chance of winning today. Some of us in the office are taking a late lunch to watch the game (starts at 1 Central).

What's kind of amusing, though, is the "prize" they are playing for. At 10-22, they would clearly be the #64 team in the women's NCAA Tournament. That means a first round massacre against UConn would await.

That would be awesome. I'll keep checking the score this afternoon.

When I was in 5th grade, the high school I would eventually attend won state with Jason Collier. They had played a national schedule that year. The problem was that they started 5 seniors that year and had a similar schedule the next year. They started the year 0-10 and were 7-13 going into the tournament. They lost by 2 in the state semifinal. I've never looked, but they might be the only team to advance to the state semi and end the season with a losing record.

[xubrew]

Wofford's an interesting little school. They beat us last year over the break by 1. Somehow Young (who took over from a long time coach a few years ago) ended up with one senior this year who only averages 1.5 pts a game. So it's a real young team. It's also a very small and highly academic place, much like Xavier in the A10. Big state schools in conference also.

The conference is imploding with CofC gone, and Davidson and Ga Southern leaving next year. If you live in Spartanburg they are a real success story, and I think this is his 3rd trip in 5 years. Very X like. And yes, I took a LOT of heat when they won last year.

I think Mercer will be a good addition to the league, but to your point, the league is losing a lot.

Wofford is a great school, and they should have a good team next year for all the reasons you said. I do like Mike Young, even if he does call timeout and allow the offense to get set.

[GoMuskies]

Is Indiana Faithful still on that team? Great name.

Speaking of Denver (as we have a few times in this thread), I saw that McKenzie played a total of 23 minutes for them this year. Six minutes since the calendar turned to 2014. On the plus side, Denver is a great school.

[throwbackmuskie]

Wofford's an interesting little school. They beat us last year over the break by 1. Somehow Young (who took over from a long time coach a few years ago) ended up with one senior this year who only averages 1.5 pts a game. So it's a real young team. It's also a very small and highly academic place, much like Xavier in the A10. Big state schools in conference also.

The conference is imploding with CofC gone, and Davidson and Ga Southern leaving next year. If you live in Spartanburg they are a real success story, and I think this is his 3rd trip in 5 years. Very X like. And yes, I took a LOT of heat when they won last year.

Didn't Wofford knock Wisky out a few years back or were pretty close to knocking them out?

Side note I always think Dorman HS is part of Wofford when I drive past it, that place is huge.

[xubrew]

Didn't Wofford knock Wisky out a few years back or were pretty close to knocking them out?

Side note I always think Dorman HS is part of Wofford when I drive past it, that place is huge.

They nearly knocked them off. This is their third tournament in five years, and they nearly beat Wiscy the first year they ever made it, so I guess that was five years ago.

I like this Wofford program. Having said that, their run through the SoCon was hardly herculean. They beat a #11 seed, a #7 seed and a #5 seed. Every game they were the beneficiary of an upset. They did look good down the stretch, though, and they should be good next year.

[drudy23]

Speaking of Denver (as we have a few times in this thread), I saw that McKenzie played a total of 23 minutes for them this year. Six minutes since the calendar turned to 2014. On the plus side, Denver is a great school.

Really? Wow...is that worse than Churchill Odia?

[Masterofreality]

Really? Wow...is that worse than Churchill Odia?

I watched a couple of Denver games and if Griff was any further to the end of the bench, he'd be in the student section.

Quite frankly, he is lucky to have a college scholarship.

[xubrew]

I watched a couple of Denver games and if Griff was any further to the end of the bench, he'd be in the student section.

Quite frankly, he is lucky to have a college scholarship.

I watched several Denver games this year, and forgot that he was on the team.

[GoMuskies]

Odia was in Oregon's rotation. He was a role player, but he had a role.

[xubrew]

Dear Wright State,

Your shot selection sucks. It's the worst I've seen all week.

On a 1-on-4 fast break, it's not really a fast break. The defense is back. It's not a good shot. Three guys are open, and the guy with the ball is not one of them.

[xubrew]

Can people please stop saying that if you're in a one bid league, you've only got one shot??!!

I mean, it isn't any sort of predetermination that the leagues that only get one bid only get one bid. The season starts in November, and the OOC games do matter. I just wish more people would understand that college basketball doesn't just fall out of the sky in March. If you go out and win in November and December, you'll get more than one bid. The Horizon League has gotten more than one bid on multiple occasions. It actually got three bids one year.

[X-band '01]

Robert Morris really laid an egg at home - does it mean more for them to upset 1 seeds in the NIT?

Congrats to Mount St. Mary's on their auto bid.

[casualfan]

Can people please stop saying that if you're in a one bid league, you've only got one shot??!!

I mean, it isn't any sort of predetermination that the leagues that only get one bid only get one bid. The season starts in November, and the OOC games do matter. I just wish more people would understand that college basketball doesn't just fall out of the sky in March. If you go out and win in November and December, you'll get more than one bid. The Horizon League has gotten more than one bid on multiple occasions. It actually got three bids one year.

Not only that, but I feel like the undertone of the comments is something like "it's bullshit the league winner doesn't get the bid".

In fact sometimes people come right out and say that. It bugs me to no end because it is the individual conferences choice whether they want to give it to the league champ or have a postseason tourney. All but the Ivy have the tourney.

[GoMuskies]

MSM wil have a great time in Dayton! Who am I kidding, no they won't.

[xubrew]

Not only that, but I feel like the undertone of the comments is something like "it's bullshit the league winner doesn't get the bid".

In fact sometimes people come right out and say that. It bugs me to no end because it is the individual conferences choice whether they want to give it to the league champ or have a postseason tourney. All but the Ivy have the tourney.

I know.

The league winner doesn't get a bid because they played their way into that situation. They didn't play their way into a position to get an at-large. In fact, had Green Bay held on and beaten Wisconsin, they'd probably be getting a bid. They MIGHT get one anyway, but I seriously doubt it.

Had North Dakota State beaten Ohio State, or even just avoided a home loss to Southern Miss, they probably wouldn't need to win this game tonight.

I do agree that I think conferences are stupid for not doing something to help out their first place team, but again, that's their choice. At the end of the day, those teams can go out and win in November and December just like everyone else.

[GoMuskies]

Prediction time: Gonzaga will make it to the Elite Eight this year. Or at least the Sweet Sixteen. This is the year no one is talking about them, and they are going to jump up and bite a couple of teams in March. They're still very talented.

[usfldan]

That would be awesome. I'll keep checking the score this afternoon.

When I was in 5th grade, the high school I would eventually attend won state with Jason Collier. They had played a national schedule that year. The problem was that they started 5 seniors that year and had a similar schedule the next year. They started the year 0-10 and were 7-13 going into the tournament. They lost by 2 in the state semifinal. I've never looked, but they might be the only team to advance to the state semi and end the season with a losing record.

I remember McNick having a run of teams like this. They'd get beat up by the larger GCL schools in the regular season and then run through the smaller Division III teams in the postseason. If I can read this page correctly (http://ohsaa.org/sports/history/BBK/92-93AllOhioTeams.pdf), McNick made the state semis at 12-14 in 1993, and wasn't even the worst team to make it that far. It says Coldwater was 10-16, with the note stating their 4-16 regular season record was the worst ever to make it to state.

It looks like your Springfield Central Catholic team made the semis at 12-13 (http://ohsaa.org/sports/history/BBK/96-97AllOhioTeams.pdf).

[The_Mack_Pack]

Prediction time: Gonzaga will make it to the Elite Eight this year. Or at least the Sweet Sixteen. This is the year no one is talking about them, and they are going to jump up and bite a couple of teams in March. They're still very talented.

That would be awesome if they're an 8/9 seed with Wichita as the 1. Not sure if the committee would set up that possible rematch though.

[GoMuskies]

That would be awesome if they're an 8/9 seed with Wichita as the 1.

If that's the case, I sure hope my prediction is wrong! I think Gonzaga will be higher than an 8 seed if they beat BYU (up 19 right now). And I think there's a pretty good chance the Committee has K-State as the designated 8/9 opponent for the Shockers anyway.

[Masterofreality]

News flash.....BYU is getting boat raced. If this keeps up, Palm might be right because BYU is not passing the "eye test"

Juan Bid may be visiting the WCC.

[GoMuskies]

Congrats to Princeton on beating Penn tonight in what used to be a meaningful rivalry.

[The_Mack_Pack]

Unfortunately, they just had to carry Collinsworth off the court for BYU. The committee will have a lot of injury discussions this year.

[The_Mack_Pack]

Indiana won't have a single school make the NCAA tournament unless Butler, Purdue, or IU can run the table. That's crazy.

[XUFan09]

Indiana won't have a single school make the NCAA tournament unless Butler, Purdue, or IU can run the table. That's crazy.

Lol I just checked on the low-majors and mid-majors in the state to confirm this.

[Masterofreality]

Utah just edged Washington. Would have been nice if the Utes lost there.

[xubrew]

Utah just edged Washington. Would have been nice if the Utes lost there.

If Utah gets in, there is no God.

[BMoreX]

USC down 2 with 6 to go.

[xubrew]

Paul Hewitt has splattered George Mason's program all over the pavement. They were good before he got there.

Down 10. To Fordham.

Just give up, Paul. If you decide to retire, I'm sure they'll throw you a huge party.

[X-band '01]

Indiana won't have a single school make the NCAA tournament unless Butler, Purdue, or IU can run the table. That's crazy.

They already blew their best chance when IPFW lost to North Dakota State last night.

[xubrew]

Boston U is shooting the lights out in the Patriot League final. They've managed 16pts in the first 19mins.

[X-band '01]

Are they playing at BU's hockey arena or the fabled "Roof" I've heard tales of?

[xubrew]

Are they playing at BU's hockey arena or the fabled "Roof" I've heard tales of?

It's in the arena. Unfortunately.

[xubrew]

Big finish coming up between a bad Miami team and a good Ohio team.

Ohio up 1 with 90 secs to go.

[paulxu]

This is hard to imagine:

Wake wins 1st ACC tourney game since '07

[xubrew]

It's a good thing the SEC Tournament is in the Georgia Dome. I don't think too many places could handle tonight's massive crowd.

[sirthought]

Fordham beats George Mason. Welcome to the A10 bitches!

[X-band '01]

Most important was that it was able to handle an EF2 tornado 6 years ago. Not too many arenas can make that claim!

[xubrew]

I get to a point rather early in the year where I just quit paying attention to the bad teams in the power conferences. You don't realize how bad they are until you watch them play each other in the opening rounds of the conference tournaments.

[gladdenguy]

Gary Parrish ‏@GaryParrishCBS 2m
BYU was on the bubble with Kyle Collinsworth. Now he’s done with a torn ACL. Seriously doubt the Cougars will get an at-large bid now.

[Masterofreality]

The crowd at the AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAC Tourney looks about the same as the A10 crowds.

[xu82]

Gary Parrish ‏@GaryParrishCBS 2m
BYU was on the bubble with Kyle Collinsworth. Now he’s done with a torn ACL. Seriously doubt the Cougars will get an at-large bid now.

Very sad for the kid, naturally. As well as his team and fans. That's the way things go, even for X. There are so many moving parts this time of year. Injuries, upsets, committee decisions, etc. I wish our ticket was a certain thing. I'm not greedy about advancing, I just want IN. (Until we get in, of course.)

[sirthought]

UCF vs Temple is actually pretty entertaining. Plenty of scoring. 1 Point game at the half.

[xubrew]

Boise State jumped out to a 21-0 lead over San Jose State.

They now lead 52-17.

I'm pretty sure they're playing basketball and not football, but not entirely sure. Just pretty sure.

[xubrew]

'm watching College Basketball Live, and the following conversation did actually occur....

HOST: So if West Virginia beats Texas and then goes on to beat either Oklahoma or Baylor, are they in the Tournament??

JOE LUNARDI: No. They did absolutely nothing out of conference. They will at least have to make it to the conference final.


I guess Joe thinks there is some sort of additional round between the semifinals and the finals.

[GoMuskies]

I think Gregg Marshall just eliminated himself for consideration for most other college jobs today. Though I assume these comments would not take South Carolina out of play.

http://espn.go.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/10568202/wichita-state-coach-gregg-marshall-first-undefeated-season-espn-magazine

Carchia: Which living person do you most admire?
Marshall: Charles Koch. He's a Wichitan who owns the second-largest privately owned company, Koch Industries. He and his brother [David] are tied for the fourth-richest man in America, and he's done it with great integrity and commitment to the community. He's incredibly brilliant.

[paulxu]

Those comments probably put South Carolina IN play.

Edit: "Wichitan"?? Sounds like a character in a Harry Potter movie.

[throwbackmuskie]

sadly it doesn't matter, diship martin is still the coach, and the win over Auburn bought him some more time. And if need be SC will look to Darla Moore, Augusta National Member and Bob McNair for some $$. Both Alums.

[xubrew]

I think there were about 200 people (if that) at the AAC Opening Round games yesterday.

A friend of mine who works with UConn told me that they had sold over 13,000 packages for the conference tournament. That's FULL packages. So, of the 13,000 people that had tickets, roughly 12,800 decided not to go to yesterday's games.

I've said this before, but there are three ways you're allowed to count attendance. One is a turn style count, another is how many tickets were distributed, and another is that you're allowed to estimate.

So, yesterday's official attendance for the Temple v UCF and Rutgers v USF games?? over 13,000!!! Congrats AAC!!!!!

[throwbackmuskie]

Two NE teams and two Florida teams, I would say 3 out of 4 only really care about football, Memphis is a long way to travel to watch bad basketball.

[GoMuskies]

How the hell did they sell 13,000 packages? UC fans don't travel. I cannot imagine many Louisville fans care enough about the AAC Tournament to travel to Memphis. Did FedEx buy like 10,000 all-session packages?

[throwbackmuskie]

Schools have to buy a certain amount, I wonder if that number counts those.

[xubrew]

Then of course, there is Conference USA, who's opening round featured a team from Boca Raton, Florida taking on a team from Huntington, West Virginia in the city of El Paso, Texas. Plenty of good seats were available for that one.

[xubrew]

Schools have to buy a certain amount, I wonder if that number counts those.

Schools were given an allotment, but they didn't have to buy them. They just had to turn them back over. Apparently UConn sold theirs out.

Between Louisville who travels well, SMU who is red hot, UConn who travels well, Memphis who is hosting, and UC who is...well...nevermind, I'm not surprised they were able to sell 13,000 full ticket packages. I guess people will buy the full tournament packages over the session tickets to ensure that they get tickets to all the sessions their team is playing in, especially if it's bundled with some sort of travel and hotel deal.

The crowds at this tournament will be really good. They were just pitiful yesterday, but that's typical of just about any opening round. I just find it funny that even though there were about 200 people there, there were 13,000 people there.

[GoMuskies]

I can see how a trip to Memphis would be fun for UConn fans as it's a place they've probably never been (at least to follow UConn athletics). I just do not expect much of a presence from Louisville people. I may end up being surprised, but Louisville fans have been to Memphis a million times (Liberty Bowls and C-USA Tournaments), are fed up with the idea of still being in the AAC, and hate U of Memphis with a passion and generally do not want to do anything to help the place out.

[throwbackmuskie]

In bowl games they have to sell a certain amount of seats, it does not work this?

[Masterofreality]

Official Attendances Per Actual Box Scores:

PAC 12 - Stanford vs Washington State- N/A (none of the other games either)

AAC- UCF vs Temple- 4815

A10- Fordham vs George Mason- 3,842

ACC- Georgia Tech vs Boston College- 10,945

Big East- Georgetown vs DePaul - 13,177

BIG EAST WINS. BIG!!!!

[The_Mack_Pack]

Do you know how that compares to previous years opening rounds in the BE? Gotta imagine it's somewhat similar.

[Masterofreality]

Do you know how that compares to previous years opening rounds in the BE? Gotta imagine it's somewhat similar.

Reports are better than before.

[The_Mack_Pack]

Reports are better than before.

That's some really good news.

[xubrew]

I can see how a trip to Memphis would be fun for UConn fans as it's a place they've probably never been (at least to follow UConn athletics). I just do not expect much of a presence from Louisville people. I may end up being surprised, but Louisville fans have been to Memphis a million times (Liberty Bowls and C-USA Tournaments), are fed up with the idea of still being in the AAC, and hate U of Memphis with a passion and generally do not want to do anything to help the place out.

That never stopped Xavier fans from going up to Dayton.

[throwbackmuskie]

Last year they had 20K for the opening round, of course Seton Hall and Rutgers where playing in those games.

[GoMuskies]

That never stopped Xavier fans from going up to Dayton.

Yes, but Dayton is 45 minutes away. Memphis is a bit more of a commitment. And we thought we loved the A-10 at the time. We've since learned that we always thought it sucked and was beneath us. Louisville already KNOWS that the AAC is beneath them.

[Masterofreality]

Plenty of good seats available in Fed Ex Forum in Memphis today. Can't be more than 6,000. Meanwhile in MSG, about 17,000.

[The_Mack_Pack]

Indiana ended their miserable season with a terrible performance against Illinois. It's like a storybook season for non-Indiana fans.

[xubrew]

SMU is a home court hero, and the committee doesn't like teams who only won big games against conference opponents at home. Everyone is saying they're a lock, but if they lose to Houston, there are plenty of reasons to not take them. I'm not saying they won't get in, but I'm saying I can't imagine calling them a lock.


The SEC has taken the proper precautions in case another tornado hits the Georgia Dome. It appears that they don't actually have any people inside of it.

[xubrew]

Committee Member and current WCC commish Jamie Zaninovich just took the job of Pac-12 deputy commish starting next year.

For all you conspiracy theorists, BYU, Cal and Colorado are all safe.

[BMoreX]

Committee Member and current WCC commish Jamie Zaninovich just took the job of Pac-12 deputy commish starting next year.

For all you conspiracy theorists, BYU, Cal and Colorado are all safe.

Is that a step-up/"promotion"?

[xubrew]

Is that a step-up/"promotion"?

It's probably more money and less stress.

[Masterofreality]

SMU goes down to a 157 RPI and 134 Pomeroy rated Houston.

Officially on Bubble Watch.

[LA Muskie]

How the hell did they sell 13,000 packages? UC fans don't travel. I cannot imagine many Louisville fans care enough about the AAC Tournament to travel to Memphis. Did FedEx buy like 10,000 all-session packages?

Often they are bought by donors with no plans to actually attend. I know for a fact that's the case at XU for a large portion of our allotment.

[Masterofreality]

Often they are bought by donors with no plans to actually attend. I know for a fact that's the case at XU for a large portion of our allotment.

Butt....pun intended....there are actual butts in the seats at MSG.

[xubrew]

Santa Barbara, who I thought was the best team in the Big West, is getting absolutely drilled right now. Down 41-20 to a sharty Cal Poly team at the half.

[toledodan]

looks like about 1000 people at the a-10 tourny. i thought the a-10 was going to out draw the big east lol.

[xubrew]

looks like about 1000 people at the a-10 tourny. i thought the a-10 was gpoing to out draw the big east lol.

From the quarterfinals on it should do okay. Opening rounds draw shit for just about every tournament.

[paulxu]

BE draws 13,000 for opening round.

[toledodan]

From the quarterfinals on it should do okay. Opening rounds draw shit for just about every tournament.

it's ok brew you don't need to defend the a-10 on this board like you do over at udpride. :cool:

[GoMuskies]

Santa Barbara, who I thought was the best team in the Big West, is getting absolutely drilled right now. Down 41-20 to a sharty Cal Poly team at the half.

At least things improved for Santa Barbara in the second half.

[xubrew]

Oh my God!!! I just turned on Rutgers v Louisville for the first time.

Can we please just run the clock???

[The_Mack_Pack]

These Big 12 games have been awesome. The BE and Big 12 win on most entertaining tournaments so far.

[Masterofreality]

Oh my God!!! I just turned on Rutgers v Louisville for the first time.

Can we please just run the clock???

Yeah, the AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAC is underwhelming both on product and attendance.

[Masterofreality]

It would be just fine if South Carolina would beat Arkansas. Up 6 in the first half.

[xubrew]

It would be just fine if South Carolina would beat Arkansas. Up 6 in the first half.

Angry Frank Martin just gave the greatest sideline in game interview I've perhaps ever seen.

QUESTION: How are you handling their pressure??

ANGRY FRANK: Well, we've gotten into foul trouble and I'm having to play guys that I'd rather not have to play.


Angry Frank should be a motivational speaker.

[GoMuskies]

If Rutgers can hit 19 straght threes, this one's going to OT!

[beatuc]

Yeah, the AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAC is underwhelming both on product and attendance.

Hopefully SMU ends up on the outside of the tournament since their resume is pathetic. How they are ranked in either poll is a mystery to me.

[BMoreX]

@BSnowScout: Amazing stat of the day, Seton Hall will finish the year (non NCAA/NIT tournament) with more top 100 wins than SMU

[X-band '01]

Minnesota up 8 over Penn State with 4 to play; they'd be one of the few bubble teams to win today.

[The_Mack_Pack]

Hopefully Wisconsin can take care of them tomorrow.

[The_Mack_Pack]

UC in a nail biter with UCF. A loss would drop them a seed or so.

[Masterofreality]

Bore cats now tied . UCF has ball. 2:16 to go.

[BMoreX]

UCF is a really dumb team.

[Masterofreality]

UCF is a really dumb team.

And cannot shoot free throws.

[Masterofreality]

A UMess loss to Rhody would be very, very nice.

And there is a very, very intimate gathering at Barclays Center.

[xsteve1]

UCF is a really dumb team.

That's why they suck.

[xsteve1]

A UMess loss to Rhody would be very, very nice.

Definitely possible. Rhody playing much better of late.

[sirthought]

UC Wins!

[xsteve1]

UC Wins!

They've won all of the close ones all year. The kid from Summit hit a big shot to give them the win.

[xsteve1]

UMass down 8 at under 12 timeout. C'mon Rhody.

[xsteve1]

N/M

[xu2010]

Wait, UConn is up right now...

[xsteve1]

Wait, UConn is up right now...

Yeah I read it wrong. Alcohol.

[The_Mack_Pack]

Iowa down 7 with 3 minutes to go against Northwestern.. Man have they sucked it up in the past month.

[Masterofreality]

Iowa down 7 with 3 minutes to go against Northwestern.. Man have they sucked it up in the past month.

And...they lost To 133 RPI Northwestern. Going into the game, X was 49 and Iowa was 48. We win Vs 84 Marquette, they lose. We in, they bubble.

[Masterofreality]

So, Memphis loses at home.

How many people will NOT be at the AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAC semis and finals?

[paulxu]

I'd like to beat Creighton so I never hear Xavier and bubble coming out of some talking head's mouth in the same sentence ever again.

[xsteve1]

So, Memphis loses at home.

How many people will NOT be at the AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAC semis and finals?

Somehow they ended up in the top 20. I would love to see X draw them next week.

[Masterofreality]

I'd like to beat Creighton so I never hear Xavier and bubble coming out of some talking head's mouth in the same sentence ever again.

You're going to hear it anyway. Diggler Phlops will pimp 5 AAAAAAAAAAAAAC teams.