Final Four

[JTG]

For you folks within close driving distance the FF is in Indy this week. Lots of fun for the college basketball junkie. Check out the Fan Fest, concerts Fri Sat and Sun. See D West and the Pacers Friday nite, take on Charlotte. The College All Star game is Fri at 4:30 and its free, as is open practice for the F4 teams Friday. Hopefully Stain will get invited to the AllStar game, and we can cheer him on one more time. Also check out the Hyatt lobby on Friday and Sat. Thats the coaches hotel. All the big names are always holding court in the lobby as are the Katzs, and other media guys looking for coaching move stories. With UK in finals tickets will be tough to score, but there are always extras, especially students looking to make a quick buck. Once again I will be working @ the F4 and will be reporting daily.

[Caveat]

Duke
Kentucky
Wisconsin
Michigan State

That's a lot of awful fanbases shoved into a confined space.

[gladdenguy]

Even though I don't like any teams in the final four......all those representing are major college basketball powers (although recently for Wisconsin). I was very happy both Sean Miller and Gonzaga did not reach the final four. I was glad even Notre Dame didn't go, who just had their first Elite 8 since 1979.

I hope for an all Big 10 final with Wisconsin winning.

[Xville]

Although I don't necessarily like any of the teams that are left, I will be rooting hard for Wisconsin and Michigan State or basically anyone but Kentucky. Living down here, their fans are insufferable. They think they invented the game of basketball and that Calipari is a saint. Its disgusting.

[JTG]

If Stain gets picked for the College All Star game, take the afternoon off and visit Indy to cheer him on one last time. The game is free. Judging from his showing Thurs. nite, and Reggie Miller's game long gushing over his play, I am hoping Matt gets picked for the game. It is only open to seniors so that limits who came be picked.

[X-band '01]

Although I don't necessarily like any of the teams that are left, I will be rooting hard for Wisconsin and Michigan State or basically anyone but Kentucky. Living down here, their fans are insufferable. They think they invented the game of basketball and that Calipari is a saint. Its disgusting.

That's why I'm cheering for Cal to win this weekend, jump ship to the NBA and take the Louisville job once Rick Pitino retires.

[SlimKibbles]

Although I don't necessarily like any of the teams that are left, I will be rooting hard for Wisconsin and Michigan State or basically anyone but Kentucky. Living down here, their fans are insufferable. They think they invented the game of basketball and that Calipari is a saint. Its disgusting.

There's that and both Teflon John and UK fans never giving credit to the other team when that team wins, or comes close to doing it, like ND did Saturday. It is always UK played poorly. It is never that the other team is any good. I honestly can't stand the arrogance. Every college hoops season I always root for a Xavier national championship and UK to have a horrible season. Been that way for a long time.

[JTG]

There's that and both Teflon John and UK fans never giving credit to the other team when that team wins, or comes close to doing it, like ND did Saturday. It is always UK played poorly. It is never that the other team is any good. I honestly can't stand the arrogance. Every college hoops season I always root for a Xavier national championship and UK to have a horrible season. Been that way for a long time.

Your description of UK fans sounds just like IU fans. They had the nerve to say they should have beaten Wichita State....Please...all those banners in ASSembly Hall are ancient history. Not a UK fan, but I would still like to see history.

[Cheesehead]

I have a lot of respect for Izzo and Ryan. They appear to do things the right way and their teams play hard. I am fine w/ all Big 10 final too. Not a ND fan but I was really pulling for them against UK.

[bjf123]

There's that and both Teflon John and UK fans never giving credit to the other team when that team wins, or comes close to doing it, like ND did Saturday. It is always UK played poorly. It is never that the other team is any good. I honestly can't stand the arrogance. Every college hoops season I always root for a Xavier national championship and UK to have a horrible season. Been that way for a long time.

Same reason I don't care for Ohio State football.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[JTG]

2 busloads of UK fans sighted checking into a NW side Indy hotel, today. Kind of early to start the party for a Sat. game. I guess those folks from the Commonwealth like their pregame.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Just out of curiosity I looked on hotels.com Saturday and there wasnt a single room available at any hotel remotely close to INDY.

[ArizonaXUGrad]

Just saying, my espn bracket has all 4 final teams with UK and Duke in the final. I tended to stay away from too many upsets. I am sitting in right around 740kth place or the 93.6%. Best I have had since college when I finished right at 98%.

[JTG]

Just out of curiosity I looked on hotels.com Saturday and there wasnt a single room available at any hotel remotely close to INDY.

Best bet would be hotels near the airport, as most folks will be driving in, not flying. Also south of Indy or East. Look 'em up on a map, then call the hotel direct. Often times internet sites list sellout when there are actually rooms.

[SemajParlor]

Went to the Fan Fest in Houston Final 2011-2012 the year Kemba took over. Highly recommend it.

[JTG]

Ok fans, Matt Stainbrook has been named to the College All Star game, Final Four weekend. The game is 4:30 Friday @ Lucas Oil Stadium, and it's FREE. It would be nice to see some X fans to cheer Matt on one last time. And if you want, you can walk a couple blocks to Bankers Life Fieldhouse and watch D West take on Charlotte.

[JTG]

Watching the big Stain warm up in his orange uni.

[JTG]

Half time...Stain with 3 pts and his team is down 9. Jay Wright is here watching his players..haven't seen Mack..I did see YTG and Keady and Ron Hunter and Andy Kennedy.

[xufan2434]

Mack tweeted pic of Matt shooting free throws from faaaaaar away

[Cheesehead]

went to Final 4 in Indy in 2010. I can say there are A LOT of bad seats for basketball in Lucas Oil. I ended up selling my tickets for the final game as my flat screen and the opportunity to drink beer were more appealing to me than watching dots play basketball.

[JTG]

Went to the Pacer game this evening. At halftime they ran highlights of all the Pacers who had played in the NCAA, pictures of D West in that unfortunate outing against Maryland. Still cool to see highlights of him in a Xavier uni.
The Big Blue Army is out in force. They are everywhere. 40,000 of them went to see the Cats practice. Tomorrow should be nuts as they try to buy there way into the games. Really haven't seen as many scalpers as in years past. Someone told me they gave coaches an id card with a bar code on it for entrance to the games to cut down on tickets changing hands.
Supposed to be better weather tomorrow.

[GoMuskies]

The fact that these games are on TBS is nuts. Looking like Duke gets one spot in the finals. God willing against Wisconsin.

[BandAid]

Dawson for Michigan State just got Duked. Two bad foul calls in one possession to give him 4 and kill spartys little spurt

[JTG]

Dawson for Michigan State just got Duked. Two bad foul calls in one possession to give him 4 and kill spartys little spurt

Deja vu Atlanta.

[JTG]

Duke just steamrolled MSU. There can't be anyone in Ky, cause they are all in Indy. Lots of colorful characters from the young to people with walkers canes and wheelchairs all in UK blue.

[GoMuskies]

There can't be anyone in Ky, cause they are all in Indy. Lots of colorful characters from the young to people with walkers canes and wheelchairs all in UK blue.

Please take some pictures of those people crying later tonight.

[D-West & PO-Z]

The fact that these games are on TBS is nuts. Looking like Duke gets one spot in the finals. God willing against Wisconsin.

Yeah I was surprised they were on TBS too. Wonder why? Were last years? Will Monday be on CBS?

[D-West & PO-Z]

Kaminsky!

[D-West & PO-Z]

Do they make the fans who were behind the bench for the first game move to different seats for the second game? All the fans who were behind the bench for Duke Mich St were Duke and Mich State fans, now its Wisconsin and UK fans.

[xudash]

Yeah I was surprised they were on TBS too. Wonder why? Were last years? Will Monday be on CBS?

I will be stunned if they do not broadcast the national championship game on CBS.

[GoMuskies]

Wisconsin needs to get some stops. It's going to be tough to keep scoring at a high rate against Kentucky.

[GoMuskies]

For a half this game is living up to the hype.

[waggy]

I think every time I've watched Wisconsin this year they've looked like the better team except for tonight.

[GoMuskies]

Hope Wisconsin plays better D down the stretch than ND did last week.

[waggy]

The Kentucky defense on the perimeter will be why they win the game if they do. That, and Bookers shooting. Man can that guy score.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Kind of cool on TruTv and TNT they are doing the games with the teams radio broadcast. Not all that interested in Wisconsin's announcers but if UK is losing or the game is clse at the end I am definitely switching over to UK's to see what they are saying.

[GoMuskies]

Wisconsin now favored in live betting. May have to hedge a bit.

[xu82]

Kind of cool on TruTv and TNT they are doing the games with the teams radio broadcast. Not all that interested in Wisconsin's announcers but if UK is losing or the game is clse at the end I am definitely switching over to UK's to see what they are saying.

The UK Homers were more than I could handle. Had to change the channel.

[paulxu]

Hee hee


Jeff Goodman @GoodmanESPN

Referee John Higgins tired of listening to Calipari. Just motioned and said, "That's it."

[GoMuskies]

That charge was a killer. And kind of weak.

[GoMuskies]

Cannot believe Frank choked on that front end of the one and one. NPOY cannot miss FTs that bad in that situation.

[XUFan09]

They're showing the replay of that Wisky player getting slapped. There were like five fouls not called between the two teams on that replay.

[waggy]

Garbage officiating. Garbage.

[xu82]

Offensive rebounds deciding this...

[xudash]

The CBS EYE looked down up upon the proceedings, and it declared let it be UK AND DUKE.

[GoMuskies]

3 straight shot clock violations for Kentucky. WTF is Calipari doing? Whatever it is, I am enjoying it.

[XUFan09]

Offensive rebounds deciding this...

I think Wisky was grateful for a shot clock on that possession. It didn't seem like they were going to ever get a defensive rebound.

[Xville]

How much did cal sell his soul to the devil for? These refs are effing terrible

[xu82]

Glad I'm not listening to the UK homers!

[GoMuskies]

Glad Kentucky got screwed on that call!

[XUFan09]

I think that shot was after the shot clock expired, but what was silly was before that. Kentucky completely boxed out and just let the ball go out of bounds. Hello, guys, no airball that bad happens without the ball being tipped by one of your own players.

[XUFan09]

Huge three!

[waggy]

Holy smokes was that a huge 3. Wisc might win this.

[xu82]

holy smokes was that a huge 3. Wisc might win this.

no jinx!!!

[GoMuskies]

How is that a foul on Frank?!?

[Xville]

Come on wisconsin....one effing stop just one..

[GoMuskies]

Just hit FTs!

[Xville]

Yes!!!!!!!!! F u cal...go home to your trailers UK fans

[xu82]

Now, go beat the stuffing out of Duke!

[GoMuskies]

Now Wisky has to take out the other evil empire on Monday!

[DC Muskie]

my brackets!

[xu82]

Yes, Happy Birthday, Frank!

[Muskie in dayton]

UK goes down!!!

A victory for amateur athletics.
A victory for the NCAA... That's one less title they'll have to strip in a few years.

[XUFan09]

I laughed when the camera panned to a 12-year-old Kentucky fan with tears in his eyes. Am I a bad person?

[Muskie in dayton]

I laughed when the camera panned to a 12-year-old Kentucky fan with tears in his eyes. Am I a bad person?

No.

[xu82]

I laughed when the camera panned to a 12-year-old Kentucky fan with tears in his eyes. Am I a bad person?

Perhaps, but that won't be why.

[Masterofreality]

Ahhhh, Hahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahaha......HA !

Suk it UK.....and my bracket lives to win.......if Wiscy wins.

On Wisconsin!

[XUFan09]

No.


Perhaps, but that won't be why.

Okay, great!

[xu82]

Damn Monday night games! There has to be a better way.

That's one more Tuesday morning sales meeting that will be lightly attended.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Anyone wanna go to Indy? Can probably get in Monday for $25. Cheapest finals tickets ever after UK fans dump theirs and head back to Lexington?

[xu82]

Anyone wanna go to Indy? Can probably get in Monday for $25. Cheapest finals tickets ever after UK fans dump theirs and head back to Lexington?

That would be a nice box to check off. I wish I was a little closer. I'm going to the Masters Thursday. My older sister saw the Beatles and the Rolling Stones about a week apart. Not too shabby.

[XUOWNSUC]

I laughed when the camera panned to a 12-year-old Kentucky fan with tears in his eyes. Am I a bad person?

No way. Poor kid roots for a team that has 8 national titles and who knows how many final fours. It must be so tough to root for a team like that. Yeah, I feel really bad for him.

[D-West & PO-Z]

That would be a nice box to check off. I wish I was a little closer. I'm going to the Masters Thursday. My older sister saw the Beatles and the Rolling Stones about a week apart. Not too shabby.

I went to the Final 4 10 years ago. Was a freshman at SLU and a buddy of mine was a huge UNC fan and his dad got 5 of us tickets for the final 4 games and national championship game. Saw UNC beat Illinois. Great game. Great experience.

[D-West & PO-Z]

If it has any impact at all, think this makes Cal more or less likely to consider NBA?

[Xville]

The sports gods finally shined a light tonight! It's about freaking time!

[xu82]

I went to one Super Bowl. Bills fan. You know how that turned out...

[Perma Fro]

I went to the Final 4 10 years ago. Was a freshman at SLU and a buddy of mine was a huge UNC fan and his dad got 5 of us tickets for the final 4 games and national championship game. Saw UNC beat Illinois. Great game. Great experience.

I want to spend 4 nights at a Final Four because Xavier is there. Just saying.

[D-West & PO-Z]

I went to one Super Bowl. Bills fan. You know how that turned out...

Ha, yes I do. I have the opposite experience. I have been to two Super Bowls, Giants fan, both wins, including maybe the biggest upset in sports history and possibly the greatest SB ever.

[D-West & PO-Z]

I want to spend 4 nights at a Final Four because Xavier is there. Just saying.

Same!

[xu82]

I want to spend 4 nights at a Final Four because Xavier is there. Just saying.

Next year.

Oh, and free beer tomorrow.

[Perma Fro]

Ha, yes I do. I have the opposite experience. I have been to two Super Bowls, Giants fan, both wins, including maybe the biggest upset in sports history and possibly the greatest SB ever.

Biggest upset in sports history = February 22, 1980.

[xu82]

If Duke had also lost, I wouldn't have anyone to root against on Monday, so that's my silver lining.

[xu82]

Biggest upset in sports history = February 22, 1980.

We rented a bunch of BIG TV's (for the day) and had countless kegs at our house on Cleneay. Who on earth rented us that stuff? What were they thinking? One hell of a party!

[D-West & PO-Z]

Biggest upset in sports history = February 22, 1980.

Yeah, true.

[D-West & PO-Z]

If Duke had also lost, I wouldn't have anyone to root against on Monday, so that's my silver lining.

Great point.

[XUFan09]

No way. Poor kid roots for a team that has 8 national titles and who knows how many final fours. It must be so tough to root for a team like that. Yeah, I feel really bad for him.

Seriously. Actually, that kid was old enough to remember UK winning just three years ago. Boo hoo, his life is so sad!

[xubrew]

Players from the 1976 IU team said they were rooting for Kentucky.

Players from the 1972 Dolphins are drinking champagne!! At least I hope....

If Wisky hadn't beaten them, I'm pretty sure Duke would have. In fact it may not have come down to the wire. Notre Dame almost did despite lousy outside shooting.

[sirthought]

1702

[OH.X.MI]

Where is the media "outrage" for what Harrison said post game?? Why were Tu and Lyons vilified for what they said after the incident and this kid gets nothing for cursing and using racially charged language? Media (ESPN) bias at its best folks.

[xubrew]

Where is the media "outrage" for what Harrison said post game?? Why were Tu and Lyons vilified for what they said after the incident and this kid gets nothing for cursing and using racially charged language? Media (ESPN) bias at its best folks.

Actually, I think the media is kind of overreacting.

[Mel Cooley XU'81]

We rented a bunch of BIG TV's (for the day) and had countless kegs at our house on Cleneay. Who on earth rented us that stuff? What were they thinking? One hell of a party!

Yes it was!

Thanks, again, '82!

[JTG]

Players from the 1976 IU team said they were rooting for Kentucky.

Players from the 1972 Dolphins are drinking champagne!! At least I hope....

If Wisky hadn't beaten them, I'm pretty sure Duke would have. In fact it may not have come down to the wire. Notre Dame almost did despite lousy outside shooting.

The Dolphins and IU , 2 of the biggest asshole fan bases .

[94GRAD]

The Dolphins and IU , 2 of the biggest asshole fan bases .

Dolphins fans have nothing on Pats and Steelers fans.

[GoMuskies]

I'm not sure I've ever met a Dolphins fan.

[xukeith]

Duke - 10 per Las Vegas.

[GoMuskies]

Duke - 10 per Las Vegas.

No, it's pick 'em.

[OH.X.MI]

Actually, I think the media is kind of overreacting.

You're right. Indulged in some beverages last night and was wound up when I posted. Watching ESPN now and it's become a huge overreaction. Almost feel bad for Harrison now.

[XUPhilly04]

Kansas coach Bill Self said this a few years ago and it still applies. Paraphrasing "You can't expect to always beat 21-22 year olds with 18-19 year olds."

23-24 year olds if its BYU.

[xukeith]

ooops it is a pick 'em

[xu82]

Yes it was!

Thanks, again, '82!

You're welcome!

I think we might have won....

[Xville]

You're right. Indulged in some beverages last night and was wound up when I posted. Watching ESPN now and it's become a huge overreaction. Almost feel bad for Harrison now.

Not even close to an overreaction...want to see an overreaction have a white guy say that about a black guy at a press conference then you will see some overreaction. Sharpton and all his cronies would be in Indianapolis in five minutes.

[STL_XUfan]

Not even close to an overreaction...want to see an overreaction have a white guy say that about a black guy at a press conference then you will see some overreaction. Sharpton and all his cronies would be in Indianapolis in five minutes.

For an apples to apples comparison wouldn't he have had to call him a cracker or some other white racial slur?

[GoMuskies]

I'm too white to understand what it means for a black guy to call a white guy a nigga.

[Masterofreality]

I'm too white to understand what it means for a black guy to call a white guy a nigga.

Doctor Robert Smith, former Ohio State running back from Cleveland, who is Black and current ESPN football analyst, had this take:
"@ESPNRobertSmith: Andrew Harrison is yet another example of the absurdity of trying to control a word that you choose to use, but "forbid" others to use."

That precipitated this response tweet:
@lovelyfealways: @ESPNRobertSmith I see you're one of those house n types. Shut the fuck up

Then Smith responded with this:
"@ESPNRobertSmith: So house N- must be a term of endearment too right? This is what happens when you try to twist logic to suit your purposes."

Then this response:
"@danielleradford: @ESPNRobertSmith Sssshhhhh sit down" and
"@De_Here: @ESPNRobertSmith don't you start"

Wow. Just wow.

[GoMuskies]

So would one call Kaminsky a house nigga, then?

[paulxu]

They should all be happy no one use the G word.

[Masterofreality]

Amazing how when it is an ESPN connected darling (read SEC Network partnerhip ) like Kentucky, The outrage over Harrison's "f&@@k that n$&@ga" comment is muted and minimized, while with a non- ESPN connected outlier like Xavier, Tu Holloway is killed for months over "gangsters" and "zip 'em up".

[X-ROX]

Amazing how when it is an ESPN connected darling (read SEC Network partnerhip ) like Kentucky, The outrage over Harrison's "f&@@k that n$&@ga" comment is muted and minimized, while with a non- ESPN connected outlier like Xavier, Tu Holloway is killed for months over "gangsters" and "zip 'em up".

Totally agree. That irks me to no end. Although it's all the networks, not only the ESPN hacks.

[X-Fan]

Amazing how when it is an ESPN connected darling (read SEC Network partnerhip ) like Kentucky, The outrage over Harrison's "f&@@k that n$&@ga" comment is muted and minimized, while with a non- ESPN connected outlier like Xavier, Tu Holloway is killed for months over "gangsters" and "zip 'em up".


Totally agree. That irks me to no end. Although it's all the networks, not only the ESPN hacks.
Well, there's not a brawl to go along with it, so less intriguing to the media I guess.

I'll say this though, hopefully this is a sign/example that someone can make a mistake and not get crucified for it. In this 24/7 Social Media driven world any misstep is amplified and many times blown out of proportion. It seems no one is ever given the benefit if the doubt or a second chance. I'd be ok if this was something that caused others to think before they freak out. </rant>

[LA Muskie]

Yeah, apples and oranges. Context is key. Nobody would have cared about Tu's comments at all had they not immediately followed the "incident."

[xeus]

Imagine the towns that would be burning if Kaminsky had said that about Harrison. Eric Holder would be investigating, Jesse et al. would be demanding all sorts of justice, and white people everywhere would be apologizing.

[xu82]

Imagine the towns that would be burning if Kaminsky had said that about Harrison. Eric Holder would be investigating, Jesse et al. would be demanding all sorts of justice, and white people everywhere would be apologizing.

Not actual JUSTICE, just "Jesse Justice", which is something quite different.

[JTG]

I'm not sure I've ever met a Dolphins fan.
When Miami was in the same division with the Colts they would show up by the thousands. And they were very annoying.

[xubrew]

Whenever public figures screw up, we need it all over the Internet so people can have something to be outraged about.

[xavierj]

Kansas coach Bill Self said this a few years ago and it still applies. Paraphrasing "You can't expect to always beat 21-22 year olds with 18-19 year olds."

23-24 year olds if its BYU.

But the Harrison twins and willie Cauley Stein are as old or older than four of the five Wisconsin starters. Only Frank Kaminsky is older. People try to make Kentucky out to be all freshman and one and done guys but that's not really true. Yes a young team but not all freshman not all 18 and 19 years old.

[Nigel Tufnel]

Imagine the towns that would be burning if Kaminsky had said that about Harrison. Eric Holder would be investigating, Jesse et al. would be demanding all sorts of justice, and white people everywhere would be apologizing.

If Frank had called Harrison an N word, he wouldn't be playing in the national championship tomorrow night.

If Frank had called Harrison a "cracka" or "honkey," I don't know what would have happened. I have learned this...its worse to refer to yourself and your teammates as "gangsters," than referring to a white guy on another team as a N. Got it...crystal clear.

[ammtd34]

If Frank had called Harrison an N word, he wouldn't be playing in the national championship tomorrow night.

If Frank had called Harrison a "cracka" or "honkey," I don't know what would have happened. I have learned this...its worse to refer to yourself and your teammates as "gangsters," than referring to a white guy on another team as a N. Got it...crystal clear.

Take the n word out of it - because it means nothing in this case - he still said "fuck (him)." I think Harrison comes out better here having used the n word than he would have if he just said, "Fuck that guy."

[Milhouse]

It's truly confirmation bias for most people. Like the brawl wasn't a big deal. At all. Everyone here thinks it's a much bigger deal than it was because EVERY little tidbit on ESPN, radio shows, etc...we all saw posted on here or on twitter (where we all follow 25+ Xavier accounts).

Guess what? If you're a Kentucky fan posting on their board and following their twitter feeds it feels pretty much the same. Granted it might be overshadowed by losing the game and the undefeated season not happening.

People forget what an absolute hive mind this place (by that I mean any team related message board) can be. To the vast majority of college basketball fans it was very very little more than a blip on the radar. If anything more people remember the punch than the press conference. It's even smaller once you get outside of Southwest Ohio too......

[GoMuskies]

People forget what an absolute hive mind this place (by that I mean any team related message board) can be. To the vast majority of college basketball fans it was very very little more than a blip on the radar. If anything more people remember the punch than the press conference. It's even smaller once you get outside of Southwest Ohio too......

I don't know. I still get the occasional "gangsta" reference thrown at me out here in Kansas.

[xu82]

I don't know. I still get the occasional "gangsta" reference thrown at me out here in Kansas.

Well, maybe that's just a "you" thing. Are you sure they're referring to a Xavier connection?

[GoMuskies]

Well, maybe that's just a "you" thing. Are you sure they're referring to a Xavier connection?

Ah, good point. They're not used to city-slickers like me out here!

[BandAid]

I get gangsta references in Omaha too, and that happened before we were in the same conference as Creighton. Usually I play it up. Omaha has its depressed pockets (like any city), but I can spin stories about going to school in North Avondale that turns these simple folk white (which most of them already are).

[BandAid]

Edit: Posted in Wrong Thread

[JTG]

Working the CBS hotel today...the entire on air staff is here. Barkley is hysterical. Kenny Smith has been holding court in the lobby for the past hr.

[Nigel Tufnel]

I want Wisconsin to win so badly tonight. I want Bo Ryan to get a NC. The guy is a great coach and deserves it. I hate Duke. And I'm pretty sure, based on the last 30-35 years, that Bucky will most likely get Duked right in the butt tonight. This is a perfect Coach K/Duke spot. Convinced tonight escalates the Duke hate when they ruin Ryan and his feel good story.

[xu82]

Seems like it's all Wisconsin, and they're only up 3.

[Masterofreality]

Couple of really bad foul calls on Wiscy by Joe De Rosa- of Canton, Ohio.

[chico]

Wisconsin had only 2 fouls in the first half and Duke's in the double bonus with 8 minutes to go in the second half. I'm sure it's just an anomaly, though. The fact that they're playing Duke has nothing to do with that at all.

[xavierj]

Duke with a chip on shoulder. Younger than Ky but no one talks about them. Impressive.

[xu82]

Duke hit a three, but it should have been Wisky ball. Clearly. Duked again.

[mohr5150]

Duke with the typical refs in their pocket at the end of this game. For them to say they didn't see that ball tipped by Winslow is just foolish. That led to a 3 to put Duke up by 8.

[xu82]

Duke with the typical refs in their pocket at the end of this game. For them to say they didn't see that ball tipped by Winslow is just foolish. That led to a 3 to put Duke up by 8.

Horrible call! If Wisconsin hits a 3 instead it's a 2 point game there.

[Strange Brew]

Duke hit a three, but it should have been Wisky ball. Clearly. Duked again.

Refs played well for Duke in the 2nd half. Wisky not even in the bonus at the end...such a joke.

[Strange Brew]

Duke with the typical refs in their pocket at the end of this game. For them to say they didn't see that ball tipped by Winslow is just foolish. That led to a 3 to put Duke up by 8.

They also missed duke stepping oob which led to an and 1 situation.

[Nigel Tufnel]

I want Wisconsin to win so badly tonight. I want Bo Ryan to get a NC. The guy is a great coach and deserves it. I hate Duke. And I'm pretty sure, based on the last 30-35 years, that Bucky will most likely get Duked right in the butt tonight. This is a perfect Coach K/Duke spot. Convinced tonight escalates the Duke hate when they ruin Ryan and his feel good story.

I've never quoted myself...sorry if it's dickish. But I F'in knew it. I. Hate. Duke.

[xu82]

I think I just heard Duke was +10 in freee throws. Shocking. And they won by 5. THIS is why people hate Duke. The ball was CLEARLY off them, before being awarded the ball for a 3 pointer. Game changing.

[xavierj]

I'm not a duke fan but duke had 4 freshman and a sophomore playing with two minutes left and they played hard. That Grayson Allen kid gets everything out of his ability. They had the best wins all year but every one wanted to talk Kentucky. Refs or no refs they got it done. They also have some class as well regardless of the past.

[Nigel Tufnel]

I'm not a duke fan but duke had 4 freshman and a sophomore playing with two minutes left and they played hard. That Grayson Allen kid gets everything out of his ability. They had the best wins all year but every one wanted to talk Kentucky. Refs or no refs they got it done. They also have some class as well regardless of the past.

I hate Duke and Coach K. If my son ended up being a 5 star recruit and wanted to be coached by Coach K....would i complain? Hell no. Would any of us feel uncomfortable about dropping our 18 year old kid off with Coach K and worry about him making our kids better people? Hell no. I just hate that he's so fucking good at what he does. It's envy.

[bobbiemcgee]

Dee and Stain in "One Shining Moment". Nice.

[BMoreX]

Dee and Stain in "One Shining Moment". Nice.

By my count Matt was the last guy shown before the Final Four teams/montage too.

[Emp]

Wisconsin didn't put the ball in the basket. They'd lost to the team that did.

Why Wisconsin doesn't hedge on Titus Jones is a mystery to me. Three straight times with the game on the line they give him open looks from his sweet spot.

I dislike Duke, but I watched that replay over and over, and I don't see Winslows finger touch the ball. I don't see the ball change course. It sounds like a herd of Dayton sour grapes we was robbed by the refs posters in this thread. That's a veteran crew, I think they did a decent job.

Wisconsin had okafur on the bench and couldn't get to the hoop for buckets wih the lead, settling for jumpers and 3s.

Above all, it was a great final, roaring crowd, all that I like to see in a college basketball game.

[X-Fan]

Wisconsin didn't put the ball in the basket. They'd lost to the team that did.

Why Wisconsin doesn't hedge on Titus Jones is a mystery to me. Three straight times with the game on the line they give him open looks from his sweet spot.

I dislike Duke, but I watched that replay over and over, and I don't see Winslows finger touch the ball. I don't see the ball change course. It sounds like a herd of Dayton sour grapes we was robbed by the refs posters in this thread. That's a veteran crew, I think they did a decent job.

Wisconsin had okafur on the bench and couldn't get to the hoop for buckets wih the lead, settling for jumpers and 3s.

Above all, it was a great final, roaring crowd, all that I like to see in a college basketball game.

Fair points. Duke was the more aggressive team...some times pushing the limits of the offensive player's right to his space. Credit to Duke for going "balls to the wall" and it working, but Wisky was expecting many of those to be called a foul. This has been discussed on this board numerous times. It would benefit the college game if the physical play were reduced.

I actually think Okafur getting into foul trouble benefited Duke. He wasn't making much of an impact and seemed to hamper Duke's offense. In a way, everything fell right for Coach K. Like always. ;-)

[chico]

I think Wisconsin got tired. They stopped running their motion offense in the second half and started to look tentative. Duke's kids made the plays at the end. Dekker also had an awful game. Love him or hate him - and I tend to swing back and forth on the guy - but Coach K is one of the best ever.

I'm not pinning anything on the refs, but just an observation - in the first half, Wisconsin committed 2 fouls. Two. In the second half Duke was in the double bonus with 8 minutes left.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Wisconsin didn't put the ball in the basket. They'd lost to the team that did.

Why Wisconsin doesn't hedge on Titus Jones is a mystery to me. Three straight times with the game on the line they give him open looks from his sweet spot.

I dislike Duke, but I watched that replay over and over, and I don't see Winslows finger touch the ball. I don't see the ball change course. It sounds like a herd of Dayton sour grapes we was robbed by the refs posters in this thread. That's a veteran crew, I think they did a decent job.

Wisconsin had okafur on the bench and couldn't get to the hoop for buckets wih the lead, settling for jumpers and 3s.

Above all, it was a great final, roaring crowd, all that I like to see in a college basketball game.

Wisconsin didnt make enough plays at the end but Duke directly benefited, getting 5 point in a close game, from missed calls by the refs.

Winslow stepped out of bounds on the offensive end, and his fingers 100% touched that ball going out of bounds. Why even have the replay if when reviewing everyone in the world can see the right call besides the refs? So dumb.

I would stopshort of saying Wisconsin lost because of the refs but Duke certainly had an easier time with two huge gifted missed calls.

[GIMMFD]

Fair points. Duke was the more aggressive team...some times pushing the limits of the offensive player's right to his space. Credit to Duke for going "balls to the wall" and it working, but Wisky was expecting many of those to be called a foul. This has been discussed on this board numerous times. It would benefit the college game if the physical play were reduced.

I actually think Okafur getting into foul trouble benefited Duke. He wasn't making much of an impact and seemed to hamper Duke's offense. In a way, everything fell right for Coach K. Like always. ;-)

Okafor in foul trouble was huge, allowed Duke's guards to space the court, and Tyus and Grayson Allen could attack the rim, draw fouls, etc. I'm surprised K put him back in at the 8 minute mark or so, but when he did at the 3:22 mark, Okafor went to work on Kaminsky two possessions in a row, and also got away with a close 5th foul. Sucks that the refs are going to tarnish a Duke team I thought was the second best in the country. Plus Krzyzewski got to the 1000 win landmark this season, I think he deserved that 5th title. He's always a class act as well, I have nothing but respect for Coach K.

[JTG]

I'm not a duke fan but duke had 4 freshman and a sophomore playing with two minutes left and they played hard. That Grayson Allen kid gets everything out of his ability. They had the best wins all year but every one wanted to talk Kentucky. Refs or no refs they got it done. They also have some class as well regardless of the past.

Allen is a McDonalds All American, it's not like he's a walk-on.

[xu82]

Allen is a McDonalds All American, it's not like he's a walk-on.

Yeah, at UK only the second team McDonolds All Americans are walk-ons.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Allen is a McDonalds All American, it's not like he's a walk-on.

Yeah, I read one tweet (cant remember who) where they guy said "Now I can see why an NBA scout told me a couple months ago Grayson Allen is first round pick material this year"

[MADXSTER]

I will root for Duke when they play, ISIS or Al qaida(sp)

[LadyMuskie]

I will root for Duke when they play, ISIS or Al qaida(sp)

But only if I'm forced to choose a side. Otherwise, I'll continue to hope for the meteor.

[xu82]

I will root for Duke when they play, ISIS or Al qaida(sp)

That's the only way I'd consider rooting for them, but I hope it's a road game for Duke. And they stay there after their big victory. Cameron Indoor could be used for mini-truck rallies or rodeo clown conventions.

[Xville]

I think it's silly when people say that refs can't determine the outcome of a game. Of course they can especially in a close game...one or two big swings in momentum and that's the ballgame. Duke had several of them last night because of horrible officiating. Could they have won anyway? Maybe...maybe not but the way that second half was called certainly determined the outcome.

[Masterofreality]

"Duke is Duke. They're on TV more than Leave it to Beavah reruns"- Peter Gillen

Except when critical replays need to be reviewed.

[JTG]

Supervisor of Officials John Adams, was quoted on Mike & Mike this am, "I saw the last angle of the replay of the Justice Winston out of bounds play, as the refs were walking back on the floor, I debated buzzing them back to reverse the call, but thought that would be interfering with the outcome" WTF do you think you did by not buzzing them ? Duked again.

[TUclutch]

Supervisor of Officials John Adams, was quoted on Mike & Mike this am, "I saw the last angle of the replay of the Justice Winston out of bounds play, as the refs were walking back on the floor, I debated buzzing them back to reverse the call, but thought that would be interfering with the outcome" WTF do you think you did by not buzzing them ? Duked again.

If true, he should lose his job. That is an absolute joke. get the call right. With that said, Im still baffled they couldn't get the call right after abuot 30 seconds of review. They get the same angles and views(slow mo/zoom) as we get Im pretty sure. If for some reason they don't, that needs to change.

[JTG]

Adams saw the last replay angle that showed the bent finger touching the ball, the game refs didn't see that angle.

[D-West & PO-Z]

If true, he should lose his job. That is an absolute joke. get the call right. With that said, Im still baffled they couldn't get the call right after abuot 30 seconds of review. They get the same angles and views(slow mo/zoom) as we get Im pretty sure. If for some reason they don't, that needs to change.


Adams saw the last replay angle that showed the bent finger touching the ball, the game refs didn't see that angle.

Yeah apparently they are saying they didnt see that angle. Not that it wasnt available but it isnt one they looked at for whatever reason. Apparently they looked at the first two angles which were inconclusive and they crowd started to get antsy and they stepped away to discuss and then the third angle was available but not looked at.

[X-Fan]

Yeah apparently they are saying they didnt see that angle. Not that it wasnt available but it isnt one they looked at for whatever reason. Apparently they looked at the first two angles which were inconclusive and they crowd started to get antsy and they stepped away to discuss and then the third angle was available but not looked at.

Wow, that's messed up.

[TUclutch]

Yeah apparently they are saying they didnt see that angle. Not that it wasnt available but it isnt one they looked at for whatever reason. Apparently they looked at the first two angles which were inconclusive and they crowd started to get antsy and they stepped away to discuss and then the third angle was available but not looked at.

Then the refs and supervisor should be fired. There is no excuse for that.

[LA Muskie]

It would have been literally unprecedented for the supervisor to intervene. That's not his role. Especially since I don't think it would have changed the result. It was a very close call. The call on the floor was Duke ball. I don't think it's obvious that he touched the ball. I understand that Raftery felt that way and claimed he could see the ball change direction slightly. But I've watched it time and again and I just don't see it. And even if it seems like a possibility, when combined with the other angles I just don't think the evidence was overwhelming enough to change the call made on the floor.

As for the TV shot at issue, I don't think the referees on the floor intentionally ignored a feed. That's not the issue, as I understand it. Obviously someone made a mistake in showing them all the available feeds and angles. And I agree that's a big mistake, because they certainly should have had an opportunity to consider that view. Particularly since everyone else in the building (and at home) did.

Personally, I lost a lot of respect for Bo Ryan through all this. I watched every second of that game. As always, there were a few questionable calls. But the quantity of questionable calls was neither unusual in number nor skewed in either team's favor. It's not that I don't believe officials' decisions can have an impact on a game (they certainly can and do), but Wisconsin lost this game when they got away from what they usually do on both sides of the floor. They seemed to cower under the pressure at the same time that Duke built and carried its momentum.

[waggy]

Personally, I lost a lot of respect for Bo Ryan through all this. I watched every second of that game. As always, there were a few questionable calls. But the quantity of questionable calls was neither unusual in number nor skewed in either team's favor. It's not that I don't believe officials' decisions can have an impact on a game (they certainly can and do), but Wisconsin lost this game when they got away from what they usually do on both sides of the floor. They seemed to cower under the pressure at the same time that Duke built and carried its momentum.


I agree, I don't think officiating cost Wisconsin the game at all. Execution or a lack thereof did. Duke won that game.

[D-West & PO-Z]

It would have been literally unprecedented for the supervisor to intervene. That's not his role. Especially since I don't think it would have changed the result. It was a very close call. The call on the floor was Duke ball. I don't think it's obvious that he touched the ball. I understand that Raftery felt that way and claimed he could see the ball change direction slightly. But I've watched it time and again and I just don't see it. And even if it seems like a possibility, when combined with the other angles I just don't think the evidence was overwhelming enough to change the call made on the floor.

As for the TV shot at issue, I don't think the referees on the floor intentionally ignored a feed. That's not the issue, as I understand it. Obviously someone made a mistake in showing them all the available feeds and angles. And I agree that's a big mistake, because they certainly should have had an opportunity to consider that view. Particularly since everyone else in the building (and at home) did.

Personally, I lost a lot of respect for Bo Ryan through all this. I watched every second of that game. As always, there were a few questionable calls. But the quantity of questionable calls was neither unusual in number nor skewed in either team's favor. It's not that I don't believe officials' decisions can have an impact on a game (they certainly can and do), but Wisconsin lost this game when they got away from what they usually do on both sides of the floor. They seemed to cower under the pressure at the same time that Duke built and carried its momentum.

The refs are the ones who control what they are watching, just like a TIVO. No one didnt not show them that angle. I agree I'm sure they didnt intentionally ignore it but they focused on the wrong angles to start with and didnt get to the third as the crowd got restless and they let if affect them and they ruled too quickly. And the ball was clearly off Winslow. Perfectly understandable they missed it in real time but I dont think there is an objective person in the country, all commentators and "experts" not just Raferty, that seeing that shot paused doesnt realize he touched the ball.

As for the calls, those refs missed two pretty giant ones at the end of the game that resulted in 5 Duke points. It was pretty badly skewed towards Duke the calls. However it doesnt mean Duke still wouldnt have won, just they had a little extra help.

[LA Muskie]

For what it's worth, ESPN is now reporting (http://espn.go.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/12648171/ncaa-vp-says-officials-actually-did-see-replay-angle-disputed-bounds-call-duke-wisconsin-title-game) that Dave Gavitt disputes Adams' account and said the officials did see the CBS angle but may have not spent much time on it (nor had it maginified). Not sure that explanation helps; seems to me that having it but not spending sufficient time on it is worse than not having it at all. Also, apparently Adams is stepping down from his post. And supposedly that was already the plan.

[LA Muskie]

And the ball was clearly off Winslow. Perfectly understandable they missed it in real time but I dont think there is an objective person in the country, all commentators and "experts" not just Raferty, that seeing that shot paused doesnt realize he touched the ball.
I don't think it's clear. And I like to think of myself as objective on this, particularly because I (and my wallet) really wanted Wisconsin to win.

[D-West & PO-Z]

For what it's worth, ESPN is now reporting (http://espn.go.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/12648171/ncaa-vp-says-officials-actually-did-see-replay-angle-disputed-bounds-call-duke-wisconsin-title-game) that Dave Gavitt disputes Adams' account and said the officials did see the CBS angle but may have not spent much time on it (nor had it maginified). Not sure that explanation helps; seems to me that having it but not spending sufficient time on it is worse than not having it at all. Also, apparently Adams is stepping down from his post. And supposedly that was already the plan.

Yeah that is even worse.

[D-West & PO-Z]

I don't think it's clear. And I like to think of myself as objective on this, particularly because I (and my wallet) really wanted Wisconsin to win.

You dont think it was clear his finger was touching the ball?

[waggy]

Count me in the inconclusive camp.

[D-West & PO-Z]

I don't think it's clear. And I like to think of myself as objective on this, particularly because I (and my wallet) really wanted Wisconsin to win.

Here you go:

http://espn.go.com/sportsnation/post/_/id/12634445/did-refs-get-wrong-crucial-bounds-review-duke-wisconsin

You can actually see the tip of his finger bend back as from touching it.

[waggy]

Here you go:

http://espn.go.com/sportsnation/post/_/id/12634445/did-refs-get-wrong-crucial-bounds-review-duke-wisconsin

You can actually see the tip of his finger bend back as from touching it.


That's not inconclusive obviously. When I was watching in real time I was watching a lower res stream that wasn't blown up. So to me it comes down to the technology available courtside. Still seems to me that the refs made a reasonable effort to get the call right, and they obviously didn't have that good of a view of it.

[LA Muskie]

Here you go:

http://espn.go.com/sportsnation/post/_/id/12634445/did-refs-get-wrong-crucial-bounds-review-duke-wisconsin

You can actually see the tip of his finger bend back as from touching it.
I had not seen that one before -- or, if I did, the announcing team had me concentrating on the ball movement. You're right -- this one quite conclusively shows that he touched it.

Incidentally, ESPN has a poll after the video. 88% think the officials got the call wrong. (And now that I've seen this video, I agree.)

[D-West & PO-Z]

I had not seen that one before -- or, if I did, the announcing team had me concentrating on the ball movement. You're right -- this one quite conclusively shows that he touched it.

Incidentally, ESPN has a poll after the video. 88% think the officials got the call wrong. (And now that I've seen this video, I agree.)

Yeah apparently 12% of the country is Duke fans.

[Cheesehead]

2 fouls called on Wisconsin in 1st half and 13 in second half. Winslow was out of bounds on the one play and he touched the ball last on the other play. It did have an impact on the game. Duke gets calls. It's a part of basketball life. They got calls when X played them too.

[LA Muskie]

2 fouls called on Wisconsin in 1st half and 13 in second half. Winslow was out of bounds on the one play and he touched the ball last on the other play. It did have an impact on the game. Duke gets calls. It's a part of basketball life. They got calls when X played them too.
True, but they probably benefited from non-calls in the 1st half. Only 2 fouls? They fouled the least of any team in D1 this year, and they still averaged 12.5 fouls/game. Which means they were more than 4 fouls under their average in the 1st half (assuming their fouls are generally evenly spread between the halves). Should Duke have been complaining -- especially since they were in foul trouble at the half (and, frankly, throughout the game)?

[coasterville95]

Well, that's a nice touch by the NCAA, recall I lost the final four ticket lottery. (Which means they returned all of my money except a $20 application fee)

It would appear they are now returning the application fee in the form of a complimentary Final Four program book - face priced at, you guessed it $20.. Well, it's better than nothing.

[Cheesehead]

Well, that's a nice touch by the NCAA, recall I lost the final four ticket lottery. (Which means they returned all of my money except a $20 application fee)

It would appear they are now returning the application fee in the form of a complimentary Final Four program book - face priced at, you guessed it $20.. Well, it's better than nothing.

You should send them a bill for $20.00

[xufan1988]

Western KY
http://www.wbko.com/SportsInsider/headlines/Keeping-track-of-the-WKU-basketball-schedule-300814241.html?device=phone&c=y

[coasterville95]

I was talking to a UK fan today. He said it's time for Coach Cal to go because he failed to go 40-0. I surely thought he was kidding, but he was dead serious.

Dayton fans may be delusional but UK fans are obnoxious.