Tuesday, March 31, 2009

The Daily Roundup: Tuesday

The BEST ACC Basketball Coverage!!!

PHOTO: How does the one who wins ACC Player of the Year NOT make first team All American....but his teammate does? Not saying Hansbrough is undeserving, but ahead of Lawson? This is a classic case of hype vs. reality.


Getting your mind right:
Tony Bennett, meet the ACC: "We’re not sure if the snail’s pace basketball Tony Bennett used to become one of the nation’s hottest coaches in 2007 and 2008 will work at Virginia." He may turn out to be a fine coach, but we're REALLY disappointed that a school like the University of Virginia is to the point where Tony Bennett gets the nod.

Why CBS is making us fans night owls

Izzo has Spartans locked in: "Commit to a Michigan State team coached by Tom Izzo for the full four-year run, and you will play in a Final Four. Since Izzo took over in 1995, every recruiting class has made it to the Final Four once in its four-year cycle."

Woods vs. Nicklaus: "As Tiger continues to climb the sheer face of Mount Jack, only one question will really be left: If both were the same age, would Tiger really have thumped Jack?"


The conference headlines:

Hansbrough repeats as AP All-America

LENOX RAWLINGS of the Winston-Salem Journal: "Wait Over: Heels finally have shot at redemption

Dan Wiederer of the FayObserver - Carolina still the best bet


North Carolina

Tar Heels winning big -- or too big? : "While the lopsided wins indicate North Carolina (32-4) is playing extremely well heading into Saturday's national semifinal against Villanova (30-7), they don't guarantee success in the Final Four."

Don't bet against Lawson: "North Carolina hopes to hit the jacket when it heads to Detroit this weekend for the Final Four. Maybe Ty Lawson can show the Tar Heels how."

Making Amends: Heels say that loss to Kansas in semis last year still hurts: "Very little upsets easy-going Danny Green, but one memory has gnawed at him often in the last year. And he's ..."


Duke

Wall visits Duke, keeps Memphis first : "John Wall visited Duke on Sunday and learned a lot about the basketball program from Blue Devils coach Mike Krzyzewski, but Memphis is still Wall's leader." This is also quite interesting....a kid with as many red flags around him as this one and Duke is hot and heavy on him? Perhaps the coaches know something we don't....perhaps he meets the supposed rigid academic requirement of the Basketball program....perhaps Coach K is feeling the heat and knows he needs a world class athlete to lead his charges. Perhaps.....

Duke gets proven commodity in Curry: "Future Duke wing Seth Curry might be as close to a sure thing as you can get in recruiting as a transfer from Liberty University."

Blue Devils land 4-star linebacker : "Duke has received a verbal commitment from Aramide Olaniyan, a highly touted junior linebacker/defensive end who picked the Blue Devils over a long list of strong suitors."


Wake Forest

Wake Forest defense will have a new look next season after losing seven starters


Maryland
Tracking the Terps: UM's $1 million promise fuels debate

Franklin received $1 million promise from Maryland


Virginia Tech

Virginia Tech spring football practice: Hokies back to work with high expectations


Clemson
Clemson's Steele upgrades 'bandit' position
First-year defensive coordinator Kevin Steele prefaces most of his comments about Clemson’s new scheme by saying the defense wasn’t broken before — so it didn’t require a lot of fixing.

Purnell hints at shakeup : "In a nutshell, Oliver Purnell blamed defense for Clemson’s late-season basketball demise. Part of it had to with a drop off in intensity and focus."

Booker returns for final season






Georgia Tech

Wide receiver Melton making strides

DE Peters making case to start at tackle


Miami

Jimmy Johnson holds court at Hurricanes practice: "Former UM coach Jimmy Johnson was back on the sideline for spring practice, saying the current crop of Canes has `some tremendous talent.'"


Florida State

FSU senior guard Toney Douglas named third-team All-American: "Add All-American to the already impressive resume Toney Douglas authored in his final season as a Florida State basketball player."

FSU's offense shines in situational scrimmage »

FSU baseball set to face Florida »

FSU men's tennis falls to No. 1-ranked Virginia, 4-3 »

FSU'S Toney Douglas named third-team All-American »

Florida State's Goodman finally feeling good again »

FSU baseball completes weekend sweep vs. Terps »

FSU baseball takes two in Maryland »

Coaches see good signs at FSU football scrimmage »

FSU quartet lightning fast »

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posted by Ed at Tuesday, March 31, 2009 |

Monday, March 30, 2009

The Daily Roundup: Monday

The BEST ACC Basketball Coverage!!!
Photo: And then there were Four....

Getting your mind right:
David Dupree: It all comes down to four :"So now we're down to three -- conferences, that is. That seems to have been the focus for many people, especially pundits, during the early rounds of the NCAA Tournament."

Michael Wilbon of the Washington Post:Tournament Missing Upsets

From the Garden, a feast for the eyes: "The court at TD Banknorth Garden was homogenized. There was no parquet floor, nor were there any Celtics banners to give the place a feel of tradition. What carried the week, especially Saturday night, was the basketball."

Huskies cut celebration short:"By tradition, NCAA regional champions stage elaborate net-cutting ceremonies, with everyone from the leading scorer to the student managers climbing a ladder and taking a snip."


Caulton Tudor of the Raleigh News and Observer-Tudor's Take: Behind the 72 points



Sammy Batten of the FayObserver: Coach K answers critics


The conference headlines:
Furman Bisher of the AJC: The Case of ACC basketball

North Carolina
Tar Heels head to Final Four : "Despite watching their star senior get outdueled by Oklahoma star sophomore Blake Griffin, the Tar Heels dominated the Sooners 72-60 with their depth, defense and dynamic point guard Ty Lawson."

Tar Heels shut down Sooners in Elite Eight:"Here was the golden rule to North Carolina's 72-60 victory over Oklahoma, the edict that helped the Tar Heels put the squeeze on the Sooners and advance to the 18th Final Four in program history."

Tar Heels Trounce Oklahoma: "Ty Lawson scores 19 points and Danny Green adds 18 to lead the top-seeded Tar Heels to a 72-60 win over heavily hyped Blake Griffin and Oklahoma in the South Region final."


Lawson in UNC's playmaking pantheon :"Entering Sunday's NCAA South Regional championship game, North Carolina's Ty Lawson had a modest personal goal."



Duke
Seth Curry decides to join the Blue Devils : "Seth Curry has found his new basketball home, and Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski has found a future scorer. Under NCAA rules, Curry will not be allowed to participate next season." Exactly what Duke needs....another shooter. Great for Seth....good kid, good family, good school.


Maryland
Seniors show off tonight :"Maryland and Louisville meet tonight at RBC Center with a women's Final Four berth on the line."


NC State
Holt brothers earn grant for foundation: "On the football field, Torry Holt gained fame catching passes. Brother Terrence Holt carved his niche as a defensive back."


Virginia


Clemson
Kornblut: Quarles clarifies his search process :"USC commitment Kelcy Quarles, a defensive lineman from Greenwood, sent a chill through the spines of Gamecock fans last week after he told a North Carolina fan Web site he was going to decommit and re-start the recruiting process.
Tigers."

Tigers' offense shines in first scrimmage : "Two Clemson defensive assistants declined interview requests as they sloshed off the rain-drenched field Saturday. Minutes later, the defense followed after spending 15 minutes running sprints as punishment."

Georgia Tech



Miami
New UM offensive coordinator Mark Whipple adds creative touch: "New UM offensive coordinator Mark Whipple and players emerged encouraged after spring practice, and with good reason. Safety Randy Phillips said this offense will be ''way more creative'' than last year's: ``We have an offensive coordinator with a great mind.''"

Spring game thoughts : "It's hard to really measure this spring game since I came away feeling like we only saw about 25 percent of UM's playbook, and about half of the."

Spring Game highlights, stats: "Greetings from Lockhart Stadium where the Canes are set to kickoff the spring game at 10:30 a.m. If you don't have CSS or don't have a radio."


Florida State








More Hooping Below the Fold!

posted by Ed at Monday, March 30, 2009 |

Monday, March 23, 2009

The Daily Roundup: Monday

The BEST ACC BASKETBALL Coverage!!!

Getting your mind right:
What we learned in the first two rounds : "If North Carolina wins the national basketball championship, Roy Williams should send Louisiana State a thank-you card."


The conference headlines:
And then there were two: UNC, Duke: Road worriers in NCAAs - "There was no denying that the home court was an advantage for both UNC and Duke, particularly on Saturday."

LENOX RAWLINGS of the Winston-Salem Journal - Rebound: Heels, Devils win for ACC

Dan Wiederer of the FayObserver - LSU’s defensive whiz no match for Ellington


North Carolina
North Carolina's Lawson hopes his injured toe will not hinder him in Friday's game with Gonzaga
: "A five-day period could determine how long North Carolina lasts in the NCAA Tournament."

Blue Devils stun top-ranked Heels: "The Duke baseball team took its first three-game series from North Carolina since 2001."


Duke
Special-K: Krzyzewski enjoying this Duke team


Maryland
Williams hopes more height helps Terps next year

Toy Department: The Conversation -- The state of Maryland basketball

More Hooping Below the Fold!

posted by Ed at Monday, March 23, 2009 |

Thursday, March 19, 2009

The Daily Roundup: Thursday

The BEST ACC Basketball Coverage!!!
PHOTO: GAME DAY!!!

Getting your minds right:
Moniker Madness: "Tudor:At NCAA Tournament time, you have to assume that almost everyone has game."


The Guards to Go Forward: "Guards typically shine during the NCAA tournament, and Maryland has three good ones -- led by junior Greivis Vasquez, pictured -- who are capable of carrying the team."

Jenkins of the Washington Post : How the Better Half Lives


Can't resist the Madness: "March Madness has officially reached new heights. We have been accustomed to our national obsession with the men's basketball NCAA Tournament spawning thousands of office pools, but now the mania has infiltrated the ultimate office. The oval one."


The conference headlines:
North Carolina
Hansbrough begins quest for NCAA title : "Tyler Hansbrough is on the verge of breaking the ACC's career scoring record. The fans who wear his number probably will be watching."


Heels’ hopes put on hold until Lawson’s toe heals: "This little piggy went to market. This little piggy stayed home. This little piggy had roast beef. And this little piggy put North Carolina’s national championship dreams in serious jeopardy."

For Hansbrough, it all comes down to one last NCAA Tournament run: "Make no mistake about it, what happens to North Carolina in the next three weeks will go a long way to coloring how Tyler Hansbrough remembers his final season in Chapel Hill."

Robinson proud of alma mater: "North Carolina assistant coach Steve Robinson was one of the first three basketball players to receive a scholarship at Radford, in 1979."

Unfinished Business: Tar Heels' Hansbrough says records are great, but he wants that NCAA title: "Tyler Hansbrough can make more college-basketball history today when North Carolina starts play in the NCAA Tournament. And this achievement ..."


Duke
ACC title lifts Devils : "After failing to advance past the second round in either of the past two NCAA Tournaments, the Blue Devils understand that people doubt them."

Older, stronger Singler not fading away: "DeCock: Maybe the biggest difference between Kyle Singler this year and Kyle Singler last year is that his teammates are actually seeing him around."

The louder, the better for Duke: " Lots of Duke folks aren't happy about being in Greensboro Coliseum this week for the opening of NCAA Tournament basketball games."

Blue Devils don't mind sharing venue with their rivals:"Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski said Wednesday that he didn't mind playing in the same building as North Carolina, but Krzyzewski didn't stop there."

Blue Devils look to get back on NCAA track: "In the not-so-distant past, success for Duke in March was a foregone conclusion. But those days are gone. Believe it or not, Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski isn't really worried about it."




Maryland
UM answered Williams' dare : "Moments after Maryland's 17-point loss at North Carolina on Feb. 3, coach Gary Williams privately challenged the team, asking each of his players to sign their names if they believed they'd beat the Tar Heels in the rematch. All the Terps signed, and 18 days later they rallied to defeat then-No. 3 North Carolina, a pivotal win for their NCAA tournament resume."

As UM feels relieved, Morgan feels renewed: "Two campuses, two perspectives on NCAA tournament."


Clemson
Late nights help Oglesby's range : "The lights remain on inside Littlejohn Coliseum more than two hours after Clemson’s practice ends. Then the sound of a basketball thumping the concrete floor echoes from the tunnel. Sophomore guard Terrence Oglesby and his father, Tony, have arrived."

Notes: Wolverines require long-range solution : "Coach Oliver Purnell does not think Clemson has to make changes to handle Michigan’s unconventional offense."

Florida State








More Hooping Below the Fold!

posted by Ed at Thursday, March 19, 2009 |

Wednesday, March 18, 2009

The Daily Roundup: Wednesday

The BEST ACC Basketball Coverage:

Getting your mind right:
Just the facts: 65 tidbits about the NCAA tourney: "It’s that time of year: Buzzer beaters, Cinderellas, blood, sweat and cheers. To get you ready, we put together some facts on the teams and players that are part of March Madness. Some will be gone before you get to know them. Others will become part of the lore. Here are 65 facts to get you ready for the first round of games:"

ACC preseason rewind: Genius or idiot?: "The most popular post on ACC Now in 2008 was the Summer Hoops Preview. With the ACC season in the books, let's go back and see how well J.P. Giglio did."

Curry, Wildcats stop Gamecocks: "Stephen Curry's showed he's still spectacular in the postseason, no matter the tournament."


The conference headlines:
What to expect in ACC: "We examine five storylines for the conference this spring and how they will impact the fall."


North Carolina
Lawson's big toe still a big concern : "Ty Lawson is taking a ribbing from some of his teammates about his lingering toe injury, but it's no laughing matter for North Carolina basketball coach Roy Williams."



Tate limited in workout for scouts: "Brandon Tate says his knee is OK and he still expects to be drafted after having ACL surgery during the fall."

Heels prepare to face yet another Greenberg: "For the past two years, North Carolina has beaten coach Seth Greenberg's Hokies in the ACC Tournament, bursting Virginia Tech's NCAA hopes."

Peppers OK with Pats: "Former UNC starJulius Peppers wants out of Carolina and wouldn't mind going to New England. The Panthers will let him go only for what they feel is fair compensation.
Tar Heels show their stuff for NFL scouts: "Brandon Tate just wanted to show several dozen NFL scouts he's almost healthy. A lot of other North Carolina seniors were looking to improve their status in the draft."


Duke
Scheyer a natural leader : "Four years ago, Jon Scheyer's mother called his high school coach one Saturday morning with some unusual news. "Jon is going crazy," coach Dave Weber said Laury Scheyer told."

Duke braces for boos: "Duke is ready to face an unfriendly to crowd during the early rounds of the NCAA games in Greensboro."

Duke shows its versatility: "Once again, the ACC Tournament produced suspense and drama. Of the 11 games in four days, at least eight were highly contested, well played and decided in the last five minutes."

Cutcliffe is upbeat: "Duke football coach David Cutcliffe says he is sleeping well these cool nights."


Florida State






Boston College
He grows on them: "Rakim Sanders (left) ranks as BC's third-leading scorer with 13 points per game, averages 4.5 rebounds, and has led the team in scoring nine times this season. He hit buzzer-beating shots in home victories over Virginia Tech (a putback) and Georgia Tech (a baseline jumper)."



Clemson
Tigers hope to avoid danger zone : "The question elicited a smile from junior forward Trevor Booker, his admission that Clemson is entering uncharted territory."


Miami
Miami Hurricanes, Notre Dame could renew football rivalry: "After a nearly two-decade break, Notre Dame athletic director Jack Swarbrick said the Fighting Irish is ''very interested'' in playing Miami again in football, and the interest is mutual."

University of Miami track champion Murielle Ahoure pursues dream in fast lane: "Ivory Coast-born national champion Murielle Ahoure is living her dream."


Virginia Tech
Duquesne coach Everhart: His heart remains with the Hokies: "Duquesne coach Ron Everhart will be trying to knock off his old school tonight."


Virginia

More Hooping Below the Fold!

posted by Ed at Wednesday, March 18, 2009 |

Tuesday, March 17, 2009

The Daily Roundup: Tuesday

The BEST ACC Basketball Coverage!!!

Getting your minds right:

Coaches UVa should target: "Dave Leitao's ouster as Virginia's coach on Monday caught a lot of people off guard because it doesn't seem to make sense to pay $2.1 million to buy out a coach in such a difficult economy."

Aaron McFarling of the Roanoke News on the Leitao resignation: AD needs to shoulder the blame, too

BIG BUCKS, LITTLE RESULTS : "In his surfing of the web, Mark Bradley discovered that the Wall Street Journal declared Georgia Tech's Paul Hewitt as the most overpaid coach in college basketball."

Coaches still cashing in: "Salaries rise even as states face big deficits, colleges require cutbacks."


Foul play on black athletes' graduation rates: "We will know the world is truly changing when politicians write letters and make statements that embarrassing graduation rates for their flagship university basketball team are unacceptable."

Bob Ryan of the Boston Globe: Something for all as NCAA Tournament unfolds


The conference headlines:
ACC receives three more bids than year ago : "This Selection Sunday was better for ACC commissioner John Swofford than last season, when only four ACC teams made it to the NCAA Tournament."

The road to St. Louis could be a rough one : "Now that her women's basketball team has received a No. 1 seed in the upcoming NCAA Tournament, Duke coach Joanne P. McCallie said on Monday that nothing else matters outside of the "six-game project" that awaits the Blue Devils. UNC is a No. 3 seed."


North Carolina
Lawson must practice : "North Carolina point guard Ty Lawson will have to show that he can practice before his coach commits to letting Lawson play on Thursday. Roy Williams said Monday that Lawson "has to practice half the practice [today] and all the practice Wednesday, or I'm not going to play him.""

Radford earns a little airtime
After Radford advanced to the NCAA Tournament for the second time in program history by beating VMI in the Big South Championship, Highlanders senior Kenny Thomas offered a joyous yet honest assessment that seemed to encapsulate life as a Radford basketball player.


Duke
Smith's return gives Blue Devils a boost in tournament: "Given that Duke guard Nolan Smith hadn't played and barely had practiced for two weeks heading into the ACC Tournament, Coach Mike Krzyzewski had to view any contribution from Smith as a bonus."

The road to St. Louis could be a rough one : "Now that her women's basketball team has received a No. 1 seed in the upcoming NCAA Tournament, Duke coach Joanne P. McCallie said on Monday that nothing else matters outside of the "six-game project" that awaits the Blue Devils. UNC is a No. 3 seed."


Boston College

Southern Cal at a glance:"Record: 21-12 Best win: UCLA (65-55 in Pac-10 tournament semifinals) Player to watch: Taj Gibson, a long-armed 6-9 junior forward, is a traditional low-post player. Although he is capable of facing the basket and making short jumpers, he did not attempt a 3-pointer this season. He averages 14.3 points while shooting 59 percent, plus 9.4 rebounds and 2.7 blocks per."

Boston College to hit field minus star LB McLaughlin: "Boston College will open spring football practice today as new head coach Frank Spaziani brings his team together for its first official workout, but the Eagles will be missing a key player."


Florida State
FSU will appeal part of sanction: "Florida State will appeal the part of an NCAA sanction that would take away wins in 10 sports, including as many as 14 in football."







Clemson
Tigers in need of quick fix : "We examine five areas Clemson should address if it wants to stay alive in the NCAA tournament."


Maryland
Maryland Lands a No. 1: "The Terps earn a No. 1 seed and face Dartmouth in a South Region game in College Park on Sunday."

Guards Make Bears Go: "The Terrapins face a Cal team dependent upon its guards, as the Golden Bears rank No. 1 in the nation in three-point shooting."


Miami
Miami Hurricanes' Frank Haith denies interest in Alabama job: "University of Miami men's basketball coach Frank Haith met with reporters Monday for the first time since his team was blown out in the first round of the ACC tournament and a report surfaced of his possible interest in leaving the Hurricanes for Alabama late last week."

Miami Hurricanes' bats stifled in loss to Duke: "The University of Miami has relied on late-game rallies to get past its Atlantic Coast Conference opponents this season. ninth-inning double lifted them to victory, the Hurricanes (13-3) sat back and watched Duke defeat them 2-0 on Saturday night in front of a packed crowd of 2,694 at Alex Rodriguez Park."

Haith: Alabama interest "just a rumor" : "(We now interrupt the Bryce Brown announcement watch party for a basketball update from the University of Miami. We hope this does not ruin your afternoon). UM men's ..."

NC State
Pack looking for luck: "A box of Lucky Charms sat on the table beside N.C. State football coach Tom O'Brien, courtesy of the school's sports information staff."


Virginia

More Hooping Below the Fold!

posted by Ed at Tuesday, March 17, 2009 |

Monday, March 16, 2009

Monday: The Daily Roundup

The BEST ACC Basketball Coverage!!!
PHOTO: Congratulations to the 2009 ACC Tournament Champion Duke Blue Devils.

Getting your mind right:
NCAA Men's Bracket: "Print, study and enjoy this year's NCAA men's tournament bracket." Join the ACC Basketblog Bracket Competition later this afternoon.

Duke defeats Florida State for ACC Tournament Champion: Blue Devils have won 8 of the last 11 ACC Tournament Championships....impressive.

Big East Earns 3 Top Seeds: "Three Big East teams get No. 1 seeds in the NCAA tournament: Pittsburgh, Louisville and Connecticut, with North Carolina rounding out the top four, despite not making the ACC final." Louisville is fraudulent....so is Oklahoma. You heard it hear first.

Power rankings by teams 1- 33: "The News & Observer and Charlotte Observer rank the 65 NCAA Tournament teams. Rankings set by David Scott and J.P. Giglio. Team capsules compiled by Rick Bonnell, Ron Green Jr., Stan Olson, David Scott, Ken Tysiac and Jim Utter."


DuPree: Greensboro hit the jackpot : "Is there any doubt about which of the eight first-round sites for the NCAA men's basketball tournament will be the hottest ticket?"


The conference headlines:

Report: Haith interested in Alabama job: " CBSSports.com is reporting that University of Miami coach Frank Haith is apparently interested in filling the opening at Alabama. According to an industry ..."

Dan Wiederer of the Fay Observer - Tobacco Road Final Four? It's possible

Furman Bisher of the AJC: The Case of ACC basketball


UNC, Duke lead 7 ACC teams to NCAA : "March Madness began out of state over the weekend, with Duke winning its 17th ACC Championship in Atlanta on Sunday afternoon. But now the madness is coming home."

Duke and UNC staying in N.C.: "With an ACC Tournament championship under its belt, Duke will start its NCAA Tournament at the Greensboro Coliseum as a No. 2 seed."

LENOX RAWLINGS of the Winston-Salem Journal: Scheyer plays to strengths to give Duke what it needs

Rick Maese of the Baltimore Sun: Terps take in moment, with wind at backs: ""They're in. The Terps dance. That's all that counts. And for now, the refreshing breeze is certainly worth appreciating.""


Terence Moore of the AJC: Saint Bobby finally has wings clipped


Duke
Duke has scouting line on Bearcats' top scorer : "Coach Mike Krzyzewski won't have to go far to get a scouting report on Binghamton's leading scorer in preparation for Duke's first-round game Thursday in the NCAA Tournament."

Scheyer brings home MVP : "Jon Scheyer got the best of Kyle Singler by one ballot in the ACC Tournament MVP voting on Sunday, a narrow margin that illustrated how hard it was to determine who had the best weekend for the Blue Devils."

Coach K, Duke live in moment : " Before the season ever started, with Mike Krzyzewski still fighting jet lag from his flight back from Beijing, the Duke coach talked about living in the moment, savoring winning instead of taking it for granted."


North Carolina
Tar Heels could run into some familiar coaches : "If top-seeded North Carolina is to reach its 18th Final Four, it could face some familiar coaches on the way to Detroit."

Tar Heels' tuneup is no breather: "If North Carolina's final tuneup for the NCAA Tournament is any indication, the Tar Heels could be in for a tense few weeks."

Highlanders familiar with Tar Heels tale: "Big South Conference tournament champion Radford draws North Carolina, a No. 1 seed, for its NCAA opener."


Wake Forest
Wake Forest needs to regain earlier form: "After letdown against Terps, Deacons will face Cleveland State in opener."


Florida State




Clemson
Basketball: Tigers land no. 7 seed, face Michigan : "Several team members acted indifferent when Clemson flashed onto CBS’ NCAA tournament bracket. Lounging in the mini-theater in coach Oliver Purnell’s basement, senior wing K.C. Rivers raised his arms for the media cameras. A handful of players applauded, more out of self-congratulation than anything to do with the draw."



Maryland
Berth Caps Long Season: "Throughout a season full of on- court intrigue and off-court tumult, Gary Williams was able to keep moving forward while leading the Terps to the NCAA tournament."

Terps, Bears ready to dance: "Maryland's Dino Gregory (left) and Sean Mosley high-five after learning that the Terps had been selected for the NCAA tournament. Maryland, a No. 10 seed, travels to Kansas City to face California in a West regional game Thursday at 2:55 p.m.; Morgan State, seeded 15th, meets Oklahoma on Thursday at 9:40 p.m. "


Virginia Tech


Miami
Poor finish hurts Hurricanes, but UM earns NIT bid: "'We are excited to continue to play and have the opportunity to compete for a championship,' UM coach Frank Haith said."

Canes open NIT at Providence Wednesday : "Jack McClinton and the Miami Hurricanes are not going to the Big Dance, but they're season isn't over yet. UM (18-12) earned a bid to the National Invitational ..."


NC State
Wolfpack fails to get NIT bid: "N.C. State's hopes of extending its basketball season flickered out Sunday night." Wow.....

Word of God player Leslie wavers on NCSU:"The mother of Word of God Christian Academy basketball player C.J. Leslie said Sunday that Leslie has withdrawn the verbal commitment he made to N.C. State as a high school freshman."


Georgia Tech

More Hooping Below the Fold!

posted by Ed at Monday, March 16, 2009 |

Wednesday, March 11, 2009

The Daily Roundup: Wednesday

The BEST ACC Basketball Coverage!!!


PHOTO: The great Everett Case, father of the ACC Tournament:

Getting your mind right:
These coaches won the close games : "For the fun of it, we reviewed the records of all-time ACC men's basketball coaches to see how their teams did in close games. The best was one of the first: N.C. State's Everett Case."

Unable to walk, Rodney Rogers regaining his stride : "For the first time since he was paralyzed from the shoulders down in an accident three months ago, former Wake Forest and NBA basketball star Rodney Rogers is ready to talk."

Bubbles Are Bursting: "Cleveland State's Horizon title makes it more difficult for the likes of Maryland and Virginia Tech to squeeze into the tournament."

ACC tourney a 'big party': "UNC coach Williams says tourney 'a party to make money', but still focused on NCAA."




The conference headlines:

Remembering 5 ACC tourney thrillers: "Sports writer Ken Tysiac gives his rundown on the five most unforgettable ACC Tournament games he has seen from a courtside seat on press row."

ACC Insider: Numbers, intangibles blur on the ballot : "I waited until the almost the last possible moment before pushing the button and e-mailing my ballot to the ACC office Sunday night. That’s how difficult some of the decisions were."

Veterans abound in ACC Tournament: "Clemson senior forward K.C. Rivers said the ACC Tournament will be like a neighborhood game among friends -- only in a much larger arena."

Caulton Tudor of the Raleigh News and Observer: Being the top rookie carries no guarantee: "It's a bright day near the end of a gloomy season for Virginia basketball player Sylven Landesberg."

Dan Wiederer of the FayObserver: Why ACC Player of the Year Lawson got Wiederer's vote






North Carolina
Toe injury could put UNC's Lawson on bench: "North Carolina point guard Ty Lawson beat out the rest of the league for ACC Player of the Year honors on Tuesday, but his status is uncertain for this weekend's ACC Tournament in Atlanta."

Lawson beats Douglas, Hansbrough for ACC player of year, but may miss tourney: "On the same day Ty Lawson won the ACC player of the year award, both he and Roy Williams cast doubt about whether North Carolina's point guard would play when the Tar Heels open the ACC Tournament on Friday."

Hansbrough a semi-unanimous choice? : "On the ACC's official Web site, there's a release that heralds the fact that North Carolina's Tyler Hansbrough became the league's first unanimous four-time All-ACC selection on Monday."


Duke

Duke prepares for ACC Tournament: "Junior forward Gerald Henderson says Duke has moved past the loss to rival North Carolina."

Duke's Smith has light workout: "ACC NOTEBOOK:Duke reserve guard Nolan Smith participated in "light basketball activities" Tuesday for the first time since suffering a concussion on Feb. 25, team spokesman Matt Plizga said."

Ready for the tourney: "Duke's two all-ACC selections say they're feeling good physically and mentally heading into postseason play, which they will need if the Blue Devils are to flourish in the ACC Tournament."




Clemson

Tigers hope to find stride in ACC tournament

Clemson spring practice observations : "Paul Strelow shares a few observations from Tuesday night's Clemson spring football practice."


Florida State

FSU's Hamilton, Douglas earn ACC accolades

'Noles baseball get back on track »

New faces emerge in FSU secondary »

FSU women learn the importance of balance »

Seminoles win two vs. UNC in softball »


Miami

Edgerrin James, Javarris James hoping for rebound in '09

Telemaque itching to be next playmaker in secondary



Miami Hurricanes baseball team gets scare, then wins: "It was a victory that hurt for Harold Martinez. The Hurricanes handled St. Joseph's 11-6 on Tuesday night at Alex Rodriguez Park, but the Canes received a scare in the fourth inning when Martinez, taking a lead off first base, got hit by a line drive from the bat of teammate Chris Hermann."


Virginia

Landesberg Is Top Rookie

Landesberg: Top frosh not enough

More Hooping Below the Fold!

posted by Ed at Wednesday, March 11, 2009 |

Tuesday, March 10, 2009

The Daily Roundup: Tuesday

The BEST ACC Basketball Coverage!!!

Getting your mind right:
ACC HONORS: The Basketblog releases it's annual all conference team by position tomorrow.

Mock went both ways in rivalry : "Bernie Mock, 86, is believed to be the only player to captain both North Carolina and N.C. State's basketball teams."

Dan Wiederer of the FayObserver: ACC power rankings

Feinstein of the Washington Post: Mason's Future Still Bright


The Conference Headlines:
A "no" vote for ACC voting system: "A panel of media members, divided between each region and who have a chance to see most teams in person, would be the best solution for picking the All-ACC first team."
All-ACC picks show there was room to debate :"Virginia Tech coach Seth Greenberg predicted that it would be extremely difficult for writers and broadcasters to deliberate over some worthy All-ACC candidates."

Hansbrough is still the best: "The ACC men's basketball player of the year will be named this afternoon, and it almost certainly will be North Carolina point guard Ty Lawson. Voters got the team right, but they picked the wrong guy."


Duke and UNC skip Georgia Dome shootaround: "Duke and UNC are the only schools that won't be participating in open practices at the Georgia Dome on Wednesday."

North Carolina, Duke women look forward to NCAAs: "ACC Tournament losses to Maryland provided tough test."


North Carolina
Hansbrough unanimous all-ACC pick for 4th time: "Tyler Hansbrough's impressive list of accolades continued to grow Monday when the North Carolina star became the first player in league history to be unanimously selected four times to the all-Atlantic Coast Conference team."



Duke
Scheyer still gets his share of points: "Rather than looking at his lineup in terms of guards, forwards and centers, Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski always has said he has a lineup of basketball players."


Clemson
Korn shows ability to be leader : "The dynamic felt considerably different for Clemson quarterback Willy Korn, and it had nothing to do with it being the team’s first day of spring practice under Dabo Swinney."

Notes: Clemson QB plans to transfer : "Jon Richt, a freshman quarterback who redshirted last fall, has left the program and intends to transfer, Clemson coach Dabo Swinney said Monday."


Florida State
Wetherell at odds with FSU vacating victories: "Before he fights, T.K. Wetherell wants to talk."






Miami
University of Miami's Jack McClinton on All-ACC First Team: "A sprained left knee slowed Jack McClinton down toward the end of the regular season. It didn't stop him, however, from capping his senior season by earning some more special honors."

Canes face Virginia Tech in ACC opener : "Frank Haith's basketball team now knows who it will open the ACC Tournament against on Thursday in Atlanta -- the Virginia Tech Hokies. Virginia Tech (17-13, 7-9 ACC) ..."


Georgia Tech
Jackets on All-ACC squads: "Forward Lawal named to third and defensive teams, while Shumpert made All-Freshman Team."

JACKETS' PRO DAY WORKOUTS : "Nearly 30 NFL representatives witnessed a dozen prospects, including potential first-round pick Michael Johnson, run through a variety of drills."


Battle over state recruits:"Coach Johnson says Tech's win over UGA had positive recruiting impact."

More Hooping Below the Fold!

posted by Ed at Tuesday, March 10, 2009 |

Monday, March 09, 2009

The Daily Roundup: Monday

The BEST ACC Basketball Coverage!!!

Getting your mind right:
Hoops hysteria? It's a slam-dunk : "This week ignites four weeks of hysteria over men's college basketball. For most Triangle fans, it starts Thursday with the opening of the ACC Tournament at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta and culminates with the Final Four at Ford Field (finally, something good will happen for Detroit) on the first Monday in April."


The Conference Headlines:
Caulton Tudor of the Raleigh News and Observer:Lawson's everyday play makes him MVP -
North Carolina led Duke 28-24 when Tar Heels playmaker Ty Lawson got his only rest during Sunday's ACC basketball showdown in the Smith Center.


Dan Wiederer of the FayObserver: Determined effort adds to seniors' legacy

Observations: "You could have put together an incredible alumni game with the guys who were in the crowd. North Carolina-Duke on senior day brought out a huge contingent of Tar Heels basketball celebrities."


North Carolina
Heels sweep Devils for regular-season crown: "Let the record show that Tyler Hansbrough fouled out of his final game at the Smith Center. So not every detail of his senior day was letter perfect."

Heels should look beyond this week: "North Carolina wrapped up another regular season title and likely another No. 1 seed in the NCAA tournament thanks to another win over Duke on Sunday night."

Seniors leave in style : "After every big victory this basketball season, North Carolina's seniors tempered the accomplishment with the reminder that there's more to do. Yet Sunday, after beating Duke 79-71 in their regular-season finale, they could take a moment to appreciate all they have done."



Maryland
NO. 4 MARYLAND 92, NO. 8 DUKE 89, OTTerps women crowned: "Maryland's Marissa Coleman hugs coach Brenda Frese after the Terps' 92-89 overtime victory over Duke for the ACC tournament championship. Coleman scored 28 points and grabbed 15 rebounds, leading the Terps to their first conference tournament title since 1989."


Wake Forest
Deacons enter postseason on a roll: "No. 10 Wake Forest will hit the ACC Tournament carrying a full head of steam after blowing past No. 18 Clemson."


Boston College


Florida State
Hokies find hoop elusive against FSU: "Tech shoots a season-low 30.8 percent from the floor in Tallahassee. Florida State 65, Virginia Tech 53"

'Noles nail down tourney bye with win over Hokies: "Toney Douglas scored 16 of his 22 points in the second half, leading No. 24 Florida State to a 63-53 win over Virginia Tech on Sunday and giving the Seminoles their first opening-round bye in the ACC tournament."


Miami

Miami Hurricanes hope to crash the party:"The Hurricanes likely will need two wins at the ACC tournament to keep alive their hopes for a bid to the NCAA Tournament."

Scrimmage highlights : "Just watched the pregame ceremony to honor the four seniors on Frank Haith's basketball team. Too bad I was only one of about 2,000 on hand to catch ..."

Tough love worked for Ojomo: "Randy Shannon's tough love approach isn't for everybody. We learned that last season with quarterback Robert Marve. You remember: Marve's dad said Shannon didn't have a ..."


Duke
Coach K shortens Duke's bench: "You know it's almost the middle of March when daffodils are blooming, you're comfortable in your house without the furnace running, and Duke's bench gets shorter than Bob Knight’s temper."

Devils come close but can't get over hump: "The Duke Blue Devils had triumphed in four consecutive pressure-packed games to put themselves in position to play for a share of the ACC's regular season championship. "




Clemson
Tigers fall to Wake, limp into postseason : "The chance for a rare road top-25 win having slipped through its fingers, Clemson’s players slowly trudged across the court to their huddle in the waning minutes."

Football: 5 destinies unfolding now : " Although only three of Clemson’s nine assistants are new to the staff, Dabo Swinney has urged all of his coaches to wipe the slate clean and evaluate each player with an open mind."

Clemson basketball buzz : "Sophomore point Demontez Stitt kept Clemson in the game. And then he played a prominent role in taking it out. Stitt notched 15 of his career-high 21 points in the first half, scoring the team’s final 10 in the final five minutes."

Clemson basketball postgame : " Clemson was up 44-36 with a minute left in the first half when Wake Forest chased down an ill-advised baseline inbounds pass at halfcourt and converted a lay-up. The Demon Deacons seized momentum for good when Stitt missed a jumper and they got a dunk on a three-on-one break with two seconds left, trimming the deficit to four."


NC State
Pack seeks vengeance vs. Vasquez: "There are two ways to look at N.C. State's opener Thursday in the ACC Tournament. On one hand, there's nobody some Wolfpack fans would rather see than Greivis Vasquez. On the other hand, there's nobody N.C. State might want to see less than Grevis Vasquez."

Recruit spurns Pack: "N.C. State's hopes of landing a high-profile spring signee in basketball are dwindling." That's bad news, losing Cousins to Memphis and Favors to GT....kind of makes signing the one and done Wall out of Durham pretty important for Sid and the Pack.


Virginia


Georgia Tech
Johnson: UGA's got edge, but... : "Tech's Paul Johnson says Tech's win over UGA had positive recruiting impact, admitting "Georgia has a lot of advantages in the state.""

Previewing Tech Pro Day: "Expect NFL hopefuls from The Flats to participate in Monday's drills at Rose Bowl Field."


More Hooping Below the Fold!

posted by Ed at Monday, March 09, 2009 |

Friday, March 06, 2009

The Daily Roundup: Free Throw Friday

The BEST ACC Basketball Coverage!!!

Getting your mind right:
The Weekend Smoke - Stogie Tips: Begin at the End: "Passing along pointers to novice cigar smokers is one of our major goals at StogieGuys.com. So, with that in mind, here are a few more tips to help you enjoy this beloved hobby even more."

Checking out the in crowd: "With Selection Sunday slightly more than a week away, let's look at all 31 conferences, predicting how many NCAA Tournament bids each will get and which teams will compete for them."

Football legend McAfee dies at age 90: "Duke football legend George McAfee, a member of the sport's most prestigious halls of fame, died Wednesday evening at the age of 90."


The cconference headlines:
Caulton Tudor: John Wall would be success at State : "This is a different kind of "Dear John" letter. It's not about leaving. It's about staying."


Might Be March Sadness: "Despite three Final Four appearances this decade, all of the DC/Virginia region's college teams could be shut out of the NCAA tournament this year for the first time since 1978."


Duke
Krzyzewski makes all the right moves : "Shortly after his team's humiliating, 27-point loss on Feb. 4 at Clemson, Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski met with Duke students for a discussion on the program."


Boston College


Clemson
Clemson QB competition gets thrown open : "Dabo Swinney predicted Clemson’s defensive coaches will be afforded the luxury of working in anonymity when spring practice begins Monday. "Everybody's going to want to know what’'s happening at quarterback," Swinney said. "And so will I.""


Georgia Tech
THREE JACKETS LEAVING TEAM : "A-back Greg Smith (left), quarterback Bryce Dykes (top right) and defensive back Jake Blackwood have left the Georgia Tech football team."


Miami
Former Miami Hurricanes coach Larry Coker hired to lead Texas-San Antonio
Former Miami coach Larry Coker has been hired to lead the new Texas-San Antonio football program, his first coaching job since the Hurricanes fired him in 2006. - 3:34 AM ET

Georgia Tech deflates Miami Hurricanes' NCAA Tournament bubble: "Georgia Tech's Lewis Clinch scorched Miami for 30 points, and in the process, deflated the Hurricanes' hopes for an NCAA Tournament bid."

More Hooping Below the Fold!

posted by Ed at Friday, March 06, 2009 |

Wednesday, March 04, 2009

The Daily Roundup: Wednesday

The BEST ACC Basketball Coverage!!!

Getting your mind right:
At the free-throw line, the stats just stand still:"Basketball in the United States has changed in myriad ways over the decades, from flat-footed set shots to dunks, from crotch-hugging uniforms to baggy knee-length shorts, from the dominance of American players to the recent infusion of international stars."


The conference headlines:
Vasquez elevates play, now worthy of POY look: "As for ACC Player of the Year, one who has come out of the woodwork and said, "Look at me!" is Maryland's Greivis Vasquez." Uhhhhhh....no disrespect intended to Mr. Vasquez but we disagree.

Dan Wiederer of the FayObserver: Henderson steals show on Senior Night


ACC notes: Hansbrough finds less charity : "Next thing you know, Mike Krzyzewski will be pining that ACC officials don’t give Duke enough charging calls."


NC State
Search ends for Corey Smith : "The Coast Guard suspends search for former N.C. State football standout Corey Smith and two others, saying any survivors would have been found." This is tragic. Our deepest sympathies go out to the Smith family and the Wolfpack Nation."

Lowe pays tribute to McCauley, Fells : "N.C. State seniors Courtney Fells and Ben McCauley have been through plenty of ups and downs in their college basketball careers."


Duke
Blue Devils hang tough : "All season long, Duke's players have said Mike Krzyzewski is determined to win another championship. After edging Florida State team 84-81 Tuesday, the Blue Devils are on the verge of accomplishing that."

Singler gives Devils a second-half lift: "Rushing back to the locker room after Duke's 84-81 win over Florida State, assistant coach Steve Wojciechowski gave Kyle Singler a bearhug in the hallway of Cameron Indoor Stadium."

Clemson
Tigers secure winning ACC mark: "Clemson forwards Trevor Booker, Raymond Sykes and Jerai Grant turned the second half against Virginia into their own personal dunk contest and lifted the 18th-ranked Tigers to a 75-57 victory on Tuesday night."

Postgame: Fitting finale for Rivers : "It probably wasn’t the final home performance senior guard K.C. Rivers dreamed of, but it was a fitting end for a player who claims to value wins over stats."


Wake Forest
Demon Deacons come up big: "Al-Farouq Aminu scored 16 points and had a career-high 14 rebounds, Jeff Teague scored 17 and No. 10 Wake Forest dominated the paint in a 65-63 victory over on Tuesday night."

Dominating inside: Deacons, with big edge in paint, hold off Terrapins 65-63 : "Surging Wake Forest was a tall order last night for a Maryland team desperately needing a victory to bolster its...."


North Carolina
UNC's Michael gets a jump on college: "The original plan had Levi Michael at home in Welcome, preparing for his senior high school baseball season and maybe taking a few college prep courses."

Heels head into drills with concerns, three new assistant coaches : "The way Butch Davis sees it, between now and March 28 could have a large bearing on what kind of season North Carolina's football team will have."



Virginia Tech
Hokies again need big win: "It was after North Carolina needed a buzzer beater from Tyler Hansbrough to beat Virginia Tech in the semifinals of the 2008 ACC Tournament that Hokies coach Seth Greenberg questioned the sanity of anyone who would've kept Virginia Tech from the NCAA Tournament."




Maryland


Miami

Former Miami Hurricanes football star Ed Reed gives hoops team pep talk: "Former UM safety Ed Reed delivered a pregame speech Tuesday to the Canes before they leave to face Georgia Tech in a must-win game."

University of Miami football seniors try to impress NFL scouts:"Linebacker Glenn Cook was one of 17 seniors from 2008 to take part in UM Timing Day, a day-long combine. 'This is an important step to the rest of our lives,' Cook said."

Canes need more than two wins to go dancing : "Frank Haith's basketball team has one of best NCAA Tournament bubble resumes is the country, one that features a strong strength of schedule, no bad losses (teams ranked ...'

Dunbar just the start at Booker T? : "Unless you forgot to pay your monthly subscription to InsideTheCanesportTimes or were out enjoying two days off on South Beach like I was this past weekend (leading my ..."

Streeter shines on third day of spring : "Each time I think about my trip to Dallas two years ago to watch Miami Northwestern take on Southlake Carroll, the first image that always pops into my mind is the one ..."


Georgia Tech


More Hooping Below the Fold!

posted by Ed at Wednesday, March 04, 2009 |