It's Selection Sunday, which means March Madness is officially here. Without Marquette in the mix this year, who's everybody hoping to see make a run instead?
My order of operations is
1. Marquette
2. N IL (Dad's Alma mater)
3. Loyola Chi (grandfathers Alma mater)
4. Big east
5. Anarchy
BE teams of course, but after that...
Major team-Gonzaga. I've always liked the style of bball that Few delivers. My guess is that he will retire in a year or two, so this may be his last chance to show off his work.
Minor team-VCU. We lived in Richmond for 20+ years and love the city.
Whoever plays the Badgers.
Marquette
Whoever is playing Wisconsin
Big East
Catholic schools
Liberty
I have a friend whose son plays for Kennesaw State.
Outside of that, I will just root for good games.
I will root for everyone to have fun and display good sportsmanship.
50 teams will turn down bids and Marquette will get called :0
Quote from: cheebs09 on March 15, 2026, 03:38:38 PMWhoever plays the Badgers.
Spot-on.
Then, the small schools taking out the big boys.
Wow St. John's is a 5 seed??? I thought 3
St.John's gets a #5.
All the way to San Diego for the Johnnies
St John's and UConn in the East is interesting
Ohio St/TCU winner could give Duke probs?
Anybody other than Duke or UW. I'll just enjoy watching good basketball because we saw far too little of it from MU this season.
Quote from: Billy Hoyle on March 15, 2026, 05:06:33 PMSt John's and UConn in the East is interesting
Yes. They fked that up.
Not a Pitino fan, but a #5 is pretty puzzling.
Sort of a screwing of the BE with UConn and SHU in the same regional.
We never got the second round Pitino/Self matchup last year (since Arkansas upset Kansas) but they grouped St. John's and Kansas in the same pod again.
I have mixed feelings about SJ, but they haven't made the second weekend since 1999. Would be good for them and the conference to break that drought.
Feels like no respect for St. John's or the Big East...wow?!? That 5 sead stinks for them.
If the Arby's near my house hadn't have closed, I'd be there right now trying to forget the Selection Show is even happening. :-\
High Point over the Weasels!
Guys, St. John's beat nobody in non-conference play and the BE sucked.
SJU was a 5 seed on Bracket Matrix, so they were seeded exactly where they were expected to be.
WTF is Missouri playing in St.Louis?
Looks like I'm an Arkansas fan now.
Quote from: K1 Lover on March 15, 2026, 05:16:28 PMLooks like I'm an Arkansas fan now.
Don't forget High Point. 30-4. :)
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 15, 2026, 05:18:08 PMDon't forget High Point. 30-4. :)
Yep. They're even better than D 3 Chicago State, right Muggsy?
Quote from: mu_eyeballs on March 15, 2026, 05:10:52 PMFeels like no respect for St. John's or the Big East...wow?!? That 5 sead stinks for them.
Guess that says a lot more about how MU sucked this year.
I will be rooting for Santa Clara.
Quote from: Scoop Snoop on March 15, 2026, 05:20:08 PMYep. They're even better than D 3 Chicago State, right Muggsy?
The Maroons are in the E8!
Quote from: willie warrior on March 15, 2026, 05:20:15 PMGuess that says a lot more about how MU sucked this year.
We beat one tourney team.
I think Nova gets bounced by Utah State
Quote from: Billy Hoyle on March 15, 2026, 05:29:05 PMWe beat one tourney team.
Jeezus! Don't get him started Billy!
Quote from: Zog from Margo on March 15, 2026, 05:29:33 PMI think Nova gets bounced by Utah State
Losing hodge hurts
My sons went to school and played basketball with a kid on Howard from 18 months through high school, so, Howard. Penn cause that's where my older son goes to school. And, obviously High Point in round 1.
Illinois may be playing against North Carolina in South Carolina in the second round.
No Bruce, Auburn did not deserve to be in.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 15, 2026, 05:35:14 PMIllinois may be playing against North Carolina in South Carolina in the second round.
I like Illinois there.
Quote from: Scoop Snoop on March 15, 2026, 05:20:08 PMYep. They're even better than D 3 Chicago State, right Muggsy?
But are they better than D3 MU?
Quote from: Johnny B on March 15, 2026, 05:31:37 PMLosing hodge hurts
It does and Utah State is well coached. I've never been real high on Willard.
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 15, 2026, 05:25:05 PMI will be rooting for Santa Clara.
Me too. Two close friends work in their athletic department. I think they take down Kentucky
Quote from: willie warrior on March 15, 2026, 05:39:35 PMBut are they better than D3 MU?
Milliken? They just lost their coach (Brad Soderberg's kid).
I was wondering whether or not Vanderbilt would get a 3 or 4. A 5 was a wow more than any other team I saw in the bracket. I had them at 3.
5th most Q1 wins. 8th most Q1/2. 12 KenPom. 9 WAB. 10 Torvik. 13 Net ranking. 4th in their league. 2nd in their conference tourney.
I didn't watch .. Marquette made it on the list of First Forty Out, yes?
Quote from: Tarragona on March 15, 2026, 05:43:19 PMI was wondering whether or not Vanderbilt would get a 3 or 4. A 5 was a wow more than any other team I saw in the bracket. I had them at 3.
5th most Q1 wins. 8th most Q1/2. 12 KenPom. 9 WAB. 10 Torvik. 13 Net ranking. 4th in their league. 2nd in their conference tourney.
And they're in a potential S16 with Florida? They definitely should have been higher than a 5.
Quote from: mu_hilltopper on March 15, 2026, 05:44:26 PMI didn't watch .. Marquette made it on the list of First Forty Out, yes?
Yes, based on advanced metrics between 2/1 - 3/7.
I'm holding out hope #muMbb has a strong calendar 2026 season.
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 15, 2026, 05:47:49 PMAnd they're in a potential S16 with Florida? They definitely should have been higher than a 5.
Committee chair had no answer for it:
https://x.com/mattnorlander/status/2033327247143154147?s=46
Florida may have to play Houston in Houston in the Elite 8. I guess because it's not on their home court and Rice is the official host they can do that.
I'm all about any team playing RED, of course, and LIU (always liked Rocket Rod Strickland)
Interesting that StJ's goes back-to-back as BE and BET champs, no better than a 5 tells you their SOS was meh as is the opinion of the BE as a conference this year.
Quote from: Viper on March 15, 2026, 07:16:36 PMI'm all about any team playing RED, of course, and LIU (always liked Rocket Rod Strickland)
Interesting that StJ's goes back-to-back as BE and BET champs, no better than a 5 tells you their SOS was meh as is the opinion of the BE as a conference this year.
They also beat no one of consequnce in the non-conference though. 2-4 against power conference teams with the wins being against Ole Miss and Baylor.
Quote from: Viper on March 15, 2026, 07:16:36 PMI'm all about any team playing RED, of course, and LIU (always liked Rocket Rod Strickland)
Interesting that StJ's goes back-to-back as BE and BET champs, no better than a 5 tells you their SOS was meh as is the opinion of the BE as a conference this year.
Avtually their SOS was fine, but SJ lost all the games out of conference that would have made a difference. But, when you have a team of transfers, it takes a while.
Quote from: Tarragona on March 15, 2026, 07:01:43 PMCommittee chair had no answer for it:
https://x.com/mattnorlander/status/2033327247143154147?s=46
Correct. That was a total non-answer. They also play a tough McNeese St. team. Basically they got hosed.
https://x.com/thefieldof68/status/2033344138591056360
https://x.com/thefieldof68/status/2033344285622386690
Quote from: Nukem2 on March 15, 2026, 07:32:58 PMBut, when you have a team of transfers, it takes a while.
Great, something else people will bitch about when MU gets some transfers and loses a game.
Vanderbilt.
Would love to see them go deep. Team plays hard and always gives an incredible effort.
After that, the Big East.
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 15, 2026, 07:44:51 PMCorrect. That was a total non-answer. They also play a tough McNeese St. team. Basically they got hosed.
And, Lincoln Nebraska is a reasonable distance to Oklahoma City for a possible 2nd round matchup.
I've been busy all day. What seed did Marquette get? What region are they in?
Quote from: Farley36 on March 15, 2026, 08:31:35 PMI've been busy all day. What seed did Marquette get? What region are they in?
Ask your mom. She's only a flight of stairs away.
Quote from: Jay Bee on March 15, 2026, 08:33:05 PMAsk your mom. She's only a flight of stairs away.
Because he lives in her basement? Or because he's holding her captive down there?
Quote from: Farley36 on March 15, 2026, 08:31:35 PMI've been busy all day. What seed did Marquette get? What region are they in?
Bad seed in the nether regions. That about sums it up.
Quote from: Tarragona on March 15, 2026, 08:24:09 PMAnd, Lincoln Nebraska is a reasonable distance to Oklahoma City for a possible 2nd round matchup.
Apparently Nebraska not really beating anyone in well over a month had no impact on the committee. They split with Iowa though.
Quote from: Badgerhater on March 15, 2026, 07:55:16 PMGreat, something else people will bitch about when MU gets some transfers and loses a game.
Well, I was speaking about a team almost entirely made up of transfers other than Zuby.
Quote from: mu_hilltopper on March 15, 2026, 05:12:37 PMIf the Arby's near my house hadn't have closed, I'd be there right now trying to forget the Selection Show is even happening. :-\
The Arby's on Port?
Quote from: willie warrior on March 15, 2026, 05:20:15 PMGuess that says a lot more about how MU sucked this year.
Thanks for this incredible and original insight. You've never expressed anything like this before in any thread.
Now, can you enlighten us as to why joy is completely absent from your miserable existence?
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 15, 2026, 05:18:08 PMDon't forget High Point. 30-4. :)
It feels hard to fade a Wisconsin team that played up to Michigan's level twice and seems to be peaking, but the more I learn about High Point, the more tempted I am to pick that upset.
Some fun facts about HPU:
• Of all the teams in the tourney, they currently have the longest active win streak (14 consecutive wins; last loss was on Jan 14th).
• Their NIL budget is one of the highest, if not
the highest, among mid-majors (reportedly about $4 mil).
• They have a player named Chase Johnston who is already being dubbed "the new Jack Gohlke" since he solely shoots threes. While he only averages ~6 ppg, he's shot 64-132 (48.5%) from deep so far this season and had several games with 4+ makes.
If I were a Wisconsin fan, however, what I'd probably be worried about most is the simple fact that HPU is a 30+ win team that reps the color purple — not unlike the #12 JMU that bounced them in the first round two years ago.
Quote from: K1 Lover on March 16, 2026, 09:16:15 AM• Their NIL budget is one of the highest, if not the highest, among mid-majors (reportedly about $4 mil).
source?
Quote from: Jay Bee on March 16, 2026, 09:21:14 AMsource?
I'll try to find the quote again, but it came up during a conversation in one of several pods/videos I listened to last night. Fairly confident it was between Field of 68 and Eye on CBB.
Edit:
https://youtu.be/HlWU-eWazG8 (7:55, Norlander states HPU had one of the biggest NIL budgets among mid-majors)
https://www.youtube.com/live/bDallQ6RO3o?si=C8-9e6-oIeRFzs7K (43:04, Norlander indicates he was told that HPU has an NIL budget north of $4 mil)
Quote from: K1 Lover on March 16, 2026, 09:33:56 AMI'll try to find the quote again, but it came up during a conversation in one of several pods/videos I listened to last night. Fairly confident it was between Field of 68 and Eye on CBB.
Edit:
https://youtu.be/HlWU-eWazG8 (7:55, Norlander states HPU had one of the biggest NIL budgets among mid-majors)
https://www.youtube.com/live/bDallQ6RO3o?si=C8-9e6-oIeRFzs7K (43:04, Norlander indicates he was told that HPU has an NIL budget north of $4 mil)
Probably only right around $2 million less than we spent this year.
Quote from: K1 Lover on March 16, 2026, 09:16:15 AMIt feels hard to fade a Wisconsin team that played up to Michigan's level twice and seems to be peaking, but the more I learn about High Point, the more tempted I am to pick that upset.
The same Weasels played down to 12-20 Oregon's level, lost to Indy and USC, were routed by Ohio State, and lost by 30 to Nebraska. Their defense is not in the top 50 (kenpom), and they live by the 3. An off-shooting game can doom them against anybody.
But sure, if they shoot lights out, they can outgun opponents. Quite a few teams can say similar, though.
I'll believe Gard makes it out of the first weekend with his own recruits as soon as I see it. So far, he is 0-for-his-career.
Quote from: Farley36 on March 15, 2026, 08:31:35 PMI've been busy all day. What seed did Marquette get? What region are they in?
Seed: Hayseed
Region: State of Depression and Lost Hope
Quote from: Farley36 on March 15, 2026, 08:31:35 PMI've been busy all day. What seed did Marquette get? What region are they in?
Seed: Hayseed
Region: State of Depression and Lost Hope
Quote from: K1 Lover on March 16, 2026, 09:16:15 AMIt feels hard to fade a Wisconsin team that played up to Michigan's level twice and seems to be peaking, but the more I learn about High Point, the more tempted I am to pick that upset.
Some fun facts about HPU:
• Of all the teams in the tourney, they currently have the longest active win streak (14 consecutive wins; last loss was on Jan 14th).
• Their NIL budget is one of the highest, if not the highest, among mid-majors (reportedly about $4 mil).
• They have a player named Chase Johnston who is already being dubbed "the new Jack Gohlke" since he solely shoots threes. While he only averages ~6 ppg, he's shot 64-132 (48.5%) from deep so far this season and had several games with 4+ makes.
If I were a Wisconsin fan, however, what I'd probably be worried about most is the simple fact that HPU is a 30+ win team that reps the color purple — not unlike the #12 JMU that bounced them in the first round two years ago.
Tired of hearing about Wisconin all the time and their successes in the Dance. Time for Shaka to build his program to emulate the Rodent Resume
Quote from: willie warrior on March 16, 2026, 11:52:02 AMSeed: Hayseed
Region: State of Depression and Lost HopeTired of hearing about Wisconin all the time and their successes in the Dance. Time for Shaka to build his program to emulate the Rodent Resume
All their success in the dance = no sweet 16s in nine years and losing as the better seed in 4 of their last 5 appearances.
https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/48223799/alabama-aden-holloway-arrested-felony-marijuana-charge
Why??? Just an idiot? Pound of weed, cash. Guess his NIL wasn't doing it for him. He is/was a pretty good player.
Quote from: nyg on March 16, 2026, 12:03:07 PMhttps://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/48223799/alabama-aden-holloway-arrested-felony-marijuana-charge
Why??? Just an idiot? Pound of weed, cash. Guess his NIL wasn't doing it for him. He is/was a pretty good player.
Considering Oates did not sit a guy who allegedly brought a gun to a scene that was used to kill someone, I have a strange feeling Holloway will be playing in a few days.
Quote from: MUbiz on March 16, 2026, 12:16:40 PMConsidering Oates did not sit a guy who allegedly brought a gun to a scene that was used to kill someone, I have a strange feeling Holloway will be playing in a few days.
Holloway not playing would be more surprising than if MU made the Tourney. I predict Bama, Holloway and his agent will crucify the police for this.
Quote from: BM1090 on March 16, 2026, 11:56:31 AMAll their success in the dance = no sweet 16s in nine years and losing as the better seed in 4 of their last 5 appearances.
OK You are right. They just seem to make the Dance every year while this year we are at low major status.
Quote from: BM1090 on March 16, 2026, 11:56:31 AMAll their success in the dance = no sweet 16s in nine years and losing as the better seed in 4 of their last 5 appearances.
In addition to being joyless, willie is unoriginal - he keeps making essentially the same comment over and over and over and over and over and over and over again.
I will be forever grateful that our alma mater denied him entry.
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 15, 2026, 05:08:26 PMYes. They fked that up.
In what way? It seems like SJ gets a break being assigned to the closest regional with the only possibility of facing UConn coming in the Elite 8 round.
Quote from: Juan Anderson's Mixtape on March 15, 2026, 05:13:28 PMGuys, St. John's beat nobody in non-conference play and the BE sucked.
SJU was a 5 seed on Bracket Matrix, so they were seeded exactly where they were expected to be.
Exactly. Anyone who knows how the selection process works and what things the selection committee values expected SJU to get a five seed and that is what they deserved.
One simple measure is that they had only five quad one wins, and every team above them and many teams below them had more than that.
I'm not particularly hyped for this tournament without Marquette (or UW-Green Bay) in it. That said, as an alum of a mid-major I typically root for a few of them to surprise.
I was stunned a couple years ago watching James Madison destroy the Badgers. I think Badgers are much better this year and likely can hold off High Point. That said, High Point had 30 wins this year. Even though their schedule is soft, that's a lot of wins and I think they will challenge the Badgers most of the game.
Quote from: WhiteTrash on March 16, 2026, 01:27:28 PMHolloway not playing would be more surprising than if MU made the Tourney. I predict Bama, Holloway and his agent will crucify the police for this.
Be surprised. Only one that got crucified was Holloway. Having over a pound of weed and other evidence not known, is not for personal use.
Former top 15 recruit and very good player, throws it away.
https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/48226388/alabama-aden-holloway-removed-campus-drug-arrest
Quote from: wisblue on March 16, 2026, 04:56:06 PMIn what way? It seems like SJ gets a break being assigned to the closest regional with the only possibility of facing UConn coming in the Elite 8 round.
I guess I'm wrong on this one.
I actually think I'll be rooting for Duke. They aren't as hateable with Scheyer and I think it's kind of cool that Boozer has basically won every state & AAU championship and for some reason isn't the clear first pick in the NBA draft despite being NPOY by a mile and doing nothing but winning.
Teams are going to regret taking Peterson and Dybantsa ahead of him.
Quote from: brewcity77 on March 16, 2026, 07:20:19 PMI actually think I'll be rooting for Duke. They aren't as hateable with Scheyer and I think it's kind of cool that Boozer has basically won every state & AAU championship and for some reason isn't the clear first pick in the NBA draft despite being NPOY by a mile and doing nothing but winning.
Teams are going to regret taking Peterson and Dybantsa ahead of him.
Disagreed. Boozer will be great, but those two are generational talents.
Quote from: nyg on March 16, 2026, 06:12:48 PMBe surprised. Only one that got crucified was Holloway. Having over a pound of weed and other evidence not known, is not for personal use.
Former top 15 recruit and very good player, throws it away.
https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/48226388/alabama-aden-holloway-removed-campus-drug-arrest
No chance Bama clears him before the weekend?
I get surprised when a SEC school does the right thing. His crime seems less serious than Florida's coach's crimes.
L
Quote from: MU82 on March 16, 2026, 11:46:38 AMThe same Weasels played down to 12-20 Oregon's level, lost to Indy and USC, were routed by Ohio State, and lost by 30 to Nebraska. Their defense is not in the top 50 (kenpom), and they live by the 3. An off-shooting game can doom them against anybody.
But sure, if they shoot lights out, they can outgun opponents. Quite a few teams can say similar, though.
I'll believe Gard makes it out of the first weekend with his own recruits as soon as I see it. So far, he is 0-for-his-career.
likely Arkansas in a Saturday game, so not exactly a cream puff if getting past HP. I think they beat HP by 12-15 but lose a tough one to Calipari.
Quote from: wadesworld on March 16, 2026, 07:39:44 PMDisagreed. Boozer will be great, but those two are generational talents.
They might put up bigger numbers or get more individual accolades, but Boozer will win more. The gap between him and everyone else in impacting winning is wider than the Grand Canyon.
Quote from: brewcity77 on March 16, 2026, 09:25:22 PMThey might put up bigger numbers or get more individual accolades, but Boozer will win more. The gap between him and everyone else in impacting winning is wider than the Grand Canyon.
The team around him is also WAY better than Kansas or BYU's teams, and play in WAY easier conferences.
I'd be nervous taking Peterson with his sitting out. I'd take Dynamtsa with no hesitation whatsoever over Boozer.
Quote from: wadesworld on March 16, 2026, 09:47:09 PMThe team around him is also WAY better than Kansas or BYU's teams, and play in WAY easier conferences.
I'd be nervous taking Peterson with his sitting out. I'd take Dynamtsa with no hesitation whatsoever over Boozer.
I agree with this. Boozer will be a solid pro, maybe even a very good one, and I don't think any NBA team would regret drafting him. But Dybantsa's ceiling is ridiculous. I worry about Peterson; something weird is going on there.
Quote from: brewcity77 on March 16, 2026, 09:25:22 PMThey might put up bigger numbers or get more individual accolades, but Boozer will win more. The gap between him and everyone else in impacting winning is wider than the Grand Canyon.
About like the gap between UCONN, St. John's and MU in talent. And quickly several other BEast schools are widening that gap with MU.
Put me down for Boozer. He's an analytical darling, excelling in every type of offensive action. And his brain is essentially a basketball supercomputer, making Boozer one of the best passing PF prospects I've ever seen.
Many people are downplaying Boozer's upside. I've seen a lot of comparisons to Kevin Love, even though Boozer has been better than Love at the same stage. Likewise, Boozer's upside should be seen as surpassing Love.
I feel like this is going to be Luka Doncic all over again. The NBA overrated athleticism and underrated basketball skill. Then, in hindsight, everybody talks how obvious it was that Luka was the best prospect.
And I'm convinced that if Larry Bird was a draft prospect today, he'd be viewed the same way as Boozer: a nice player, but "limited upside" that will prevent him from being an MVP.
Quote from: willie warrior on March 17, 2026, 06:14:40 AMAbout like the gap between UCONN, St. John's and MU in talent. And quickly several other BEast schools are widening that gap with MU.
Several other? The next best KenPom rated team is Villanova at 33 - the next best was 51 and didn't make the tournament. If we're 33 next year without a unique injury, I would advocate moving the program in a different direction.
So - no other Big east teams are widening the gap - You dont need to make stuff up to have an opinion.
Quote from: Frenns Liquor Depot on March 17, 2026, 07:42:54 AMSeveral other? The next best KenPom rated team is Villanova at 33 - the next best was 51 and didn't make the tournament. If we're 33 next year without a unique injury, I would advocate moving the program in a different direction.
So - no other Big east teams are widening the gap - You dont need to make stuff up to have an opinion.
As some examples: DePaul swept us this year, so more correctly they are trending upward while MU has dropped significantly. Xavier and Villanova have moved ahead of us. It seems that your statement agrees that St. Johns and UConn are well ahead of us, but MU is third best...in a down BEast. MU is not third best in the league. A lucky 7 seed in the Beast tourney and a first round bounce. Hell Georgetown has moved ahead of us. But believe what you want. And ignore how MU has slid to this point.
Quote from: willie warrior on March 17, 2026, 09:05:27 AMAs some examples: DePaul swept us this year, so more correctly they are trending upward while MU has dropped significantly. Xavier and Villanova have moved ahead of us. It seems that your statement agrees that St. Johns and UConn are well ahead of us, but MU is third best...in a down BEast. MU is not third best in the league. A lucky 7 seed in the Beast tourney and a first round bounce. Hell Georgetown has moved ahead of us. But believe what you want. And ignore how MU has slid to this point.
There is literally no one ignoring how Marquette has slid to this point.
From Axios:
All the major chatbots were able to fill out an NCAA bracket this year, a sharp contrast from a year ago when AI struggled to decipher who'd match up in later rounds, Axios AI+ co-author Ina Fried writes.
It shows how fast AI moves: What's impossible one year is often a trivial task just months later.
Ina gave the bots the same task as a year ago — look at a PDF bracket and make picks for each matchup.
OpenAI's ChatGPT, Anthropic's Claude and Google's Gemini all came up with plausible brackets that included a few upset picks, usually with a rationale to justify the choice.
The picks: Gemini went with Arizona, while ChatGPT and Claude picked Duke.
Upsets: Claude sees Akron beating Texas Tech and BYU defeating March Madness powerhouse Gonzaga, noting a key injury.
ChatGPT predicted St. John's and VCU to play spoilers, while Gemini picked Miami (Ohio) to beat Tennessee.
Quote from: willie warrior on March 17, 2026, 09:05:27 AMAs some examples: DePaul swept us this year, so more correctly they are trending upward while MU has dropped significantly. Xavier and Villanova have moved ahead of us. It seems that your statement agrees that St. Johns and UConn are well ahead of us, but MU is third best...in a down BEast. MU is not third best in the league. A lucky 7 seed in the Beast tourney and a first round bounce. Hell Georgetown has moved ahead of us. But believe what you want. And ignore how MU has slid to this point.
What are you even talking about. The Big East was terrible this year.
I'm more worried that the Big East fades into obscurity than any those teams permanently leaving us in the dust. Said a different way if we get to the ex-St Johns/UCONN level its no where near enough - so pointing to the field is not really relevant.
And yes - St Johns and UCONN were measurably better this year (not really St Johns last three). Hopefully our change in strategy rights the course. At least we have that to point to. If I'm Seton Hall, G-Town or a few other programs, I am questioning what changes to make it better than mediocre.
Quote from: Frenns Liquor Depot on March 17, 2026, 09:50:51 AMWhat are you even talking about. The Big East was terrible this year.
I'm more worried that the Big East fades into obscurity than any those teams permanently leaving us in the dust. Said a different way if we get to the ex-St Johns/UCONN level its no where near enough - so pointing to the field is not really relevant.
And yes - St Johns and UCONN were measurably better this year (not really St Johns last three). Hopefully our change in strategy rights the course. At least we have that to point to. If I'm Seton Hall, G-Town or a few other programs, I am questioning what changes to make it better than mediocre.
Pretty clear what I am talking about. MU has slid significantly downward in the league. What can't you comprehend about that? And yes the league was not strong this year. Clearly, Shaka has a ton of work to do, which is why he makes the big bucks.
Quote from: MU82 on March 17, 2026, 09:41:03 AMFrom Axios:
All the major chatbots were able to fill out an NCAA bracket this year, a sharp contrast from a year ago when AI struggled to decipher who'd match up in later rounds, Axios AI+ co-author Ina Fried writes.
It shows how fast AI moves: What's impossible one year is often a trivial task just months later.
Ina gave the bots the same task as a year ago — look at a PDF bracket and make picks for each matchup.
OpenAI's ChatGPT, Anthropic's Claude and Google's Gemini all came up with plausible brackets that included a few upset picks, usually with a rationale to justify the choice.
The picks: Gemini went with Arizona, while ChatGPT and Claude picked Duke.
Upsets: Claude sees Akron beating Texas Tech and BYU defeating March Madness powerhouse Gonzaga, noting a key injury.
ChatGPT predicted St. John's and VCU to play spoilers, while Gemini picked Miami (Ohio) to beat Tennessee.
AI's still got a ways to go if they're picking Miami (OH) to beat anyone!
Quote from: willie warrior on March 17, 2026, 10:38:13 AMPretty clear what I am talking about. MU has slid significantly downward in the league. What can't you comprehend about that? And yes the league was not strong this year. Clearly, Shaka has a ton of work to do, which is why he makes the big bucks.
Was the GAP widening and UCONN falling into obscurity when UCONN finished tied for 4th in the Big East in 2022-2023?
Stop using these.
https://x.com/reboundrundown/status/2033972691548422200?s=46
Quote from: TallTitan34 on March 17, 2026, 02:37:58 PMStop using these.
https://x.com/reboundrundown/status/2033972691548422200?s=46
It is so absurd that there isn't a single basketball used by all D1 teams.
Why does this happen? Do home teams pick balls during the regular season and then NCAA picks them for the tournament? Never made any sense to me. Also the balls getting stuck in the tight tournament nets after makes has been a talking point for over a decade now.
Why not keep things constant. NCAA is a joke.
This three man booth could be a real trainwreck for the Tex/NC State game. BA sounds ill.
The replies...
https://x.com/UMBCAthletics/status/2034052304345747928?s=20
Quote from: Pakuni on March 17, 2026, 08:58:07 PMThe replies...
https://x.com/UMBCAthletics/status/2034052304345747928?s=20
Their social media team is about as ready for prime time as their basketball team was.
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on March 17, 2026, 03:45:46 PMWhy does this happen? Do home teams pick balls during the regular season and then NCAA picks them for the tournament? Never made any sense to me. Also the balls getting stuck in the tight tournament nets after makes has been a talking point for over a decade now.
Why not keep things constant. NCAA is a joke.
Yes, home teams pick. My son had a Sterling ball in his playground equipment at his school. The only place I've ever seen one. Not sure why Wilson allows them to be inflated so high.
Quote from: wadesworld on March 17, 2026, 10:53:53 AMWas the GAP widening and UCONN falling into obscurity when UCONN finished tied for 4th in the Big East in 2022-2023?
Talking about last season and now. Nice try at lame deflection. Keep you blue and gold glasses firmly lodged so you cannot see reality.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 18, 2026, 03:40:19 AMTheir social media team is about as ready for prime time as their basketball team was.
If you think that's bad, some lady on the UMBC Moms' X account just tweeted, "Y'all are judging them off wins and losses!"
Quote from: The Sultan on March 17, 2026, 09:39:59 AMThere is literally no one ignoring how Marquette has slid to this point.
Agree, but the Blue and Gold glasses many have here is over the top as well.
Quote from: Biggie Clausen on March 18, 2026, 08:01:04 AMIf you think that's bad, some lady on the UMBC Moms' X account just tweeted, "Y'all are judging them off wins and losses!"
Sounds like Sean Jones will be transferring to UMBC.
https://www.si.com/college-basketball/ranking-mens-ncaa-tournament-coaches-who-have-never-won-national-championship
I'm a Gonzaga hater, but what are we even doing here? Scheyer has been great at Duke, better than I expected. But Kelvin Sampson and Mark Few are far and away 1 and 2 on this list, and Painter is probably 3. Scheyer will probably pass any that don't win a national title (which would then move him off of this list anyway, but that's besides the point), but as of today? Come on.
And Fred Hoiberg above Rick Barnes?
I'm still not sure what to make of Scheyer other than he's been able to sustain Duke's recruiting level.
Landing Cooper Flagg and Cameron Boozer sure helps make any coach look good.
Quote from: Juan Anderson's Mixtape on March 18, 2026, 10:57:40 AMI'm still not sure what to make of Scheyer other than he's been able to sustain Duke's recruiting level.
Landing Cooper Flagg and Cameron Boozer sure helps make any coach look good.
Winning titles is difficult but the way in which Duke blew a 9 point lead with 2 minutes left against Houston with THAT roster last year...man, disappointing for them.
The Scheyer love is out of control.
Quote from: Juan Anderson's Mixtape on March 18, 2026, 10:57:40 AMI'm still not sure what to make of Scheyer other than he's been able to sustain Duke's recruiting level.
Landing Cooper Flagg and Cameron Boozer sure helps make any coach look good.
He had the two leading candidates for NBA ROY on his roster last year, another top 10 pick, and great talent beyond those guys. He's proven a great recruiter with a very large budget. He does get them to play defense.
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on March 18, 2026, 11:06:14 AMWinning titles is difficult but the way in which Duke blew a 9 point lead with 2 minutes left against Houston with THAT roster last year...man, disappointing for them.
The Scheyer love is out of control.
???
The guy took over from an absolute legend, and in four seasons, maintained Duke's recruiting edge, won 83% of his games, won two regular season ACC titles, three ACC tournament titles, and has been to an Elite 8, a Final 4 and enters this season as #1 overall seed. And you're harping on how he lost last year's semifinal??? ::) ::) ::)
Outside of the fact that Duke annoys you, what's not to love about the start to his career? Think about how many programs have struggled when their legendary coach stepped down. Including Marquette. I think we all would have loved that start to Hank's career.
He will get his title. Maybe even this year.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 18, 2026, 12:39:49 PM???
The guy took over from an absolute legend, and in four seasons, maintained Duke's recruiting edge, won 83% of his games, won two regular season ACC titles, three ACC tournament titles, and has been to an Elite 8, a Final 4 and enters this season as #1 overall seed. And you're harping on how he lost last year's semifinal??? ::) ::) ::)
Outside of the fact that Duke annoys you, what's not to love about the start to his career? Think about how many programs have struggled when their legendary coach stepped down. Including Marquette. I think we all would have loved that start to Hank's career.
He will get his title. Maybe even this year.
Duke doesn't really annoy me. I think Scheyer has done a fine job.
Just including him with the legends is ridiculous. He'll get there eventually in all likelihood. No need to exaggerate it all right now.
Quote from: wadesworld on March 18, 2026, 10:36:38 AMhttps://www.si.com/college-basketball/ranking-mens-ncaa-tournament-coaches-who-have-never-won-national-championship
I'm a Gonzaga hater, but what are we even doing here? Scheyer has been great at Duke, better than I expected. But Kelvin Sampson and Mark Few are far and away 1 and 2 on this list, and Painter is probably 3. Scheyer will probably pass any that don't win a national title (which would then move him off of this list anyway, but that's besides the point), but as of today? Come on.
And Fred Hoiberg above Rick Barnes?
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on March 18, 2026, 12:43:39 PMDuke doesn't really annoy me. I think Scheyer has done a fine job.
Just including him with the legends is ridiculous. He'll get there eventually in all likelihood. No need to exaggerate it all right now.
Did either of you read how they ranked them?
Right from the article: "Which coach could break through in 2026? Let's rank them based on the likelihood of a championship run happening."
Quote from: The Sultan on March 18, 2026, 12:48:00 PMDid either of you read how they ranked them?
Right from the article: "Which coach could break through in 2026? Let's rank them based on the likelihood of a championship run happening."
I admittedly did not. I was just going off the other comment.
I think Scheyer will eventually win at Duke.
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on March 18, 2026, 12:58:54 PMI admittedly did not. I was just going off the other comment.
No problem This is scoop. Reading before posting is optional.
Quote from: Scoop Snoop on March 18, 2026, 01:03:43 PMNo problem This is scoop. Reading before posting is optional.
Thank you!
I was moreso speaking on the love Scheyer gets in general, rather than the specific article itself. He gets lumped with these legends so soon it does him no good.
He'll probably win at Duke but he deserves his time to do it and the legends deserve their own tier!
Quote from: wadesworld on March 18, 2026, 10:36:38 AMhttps://www.si.com/college-basketball/ranking-mens-ncaa-tournament-coaches-who-have-never-won-national-championship
I'm a Gonzaga hater, but what are we even doing here? Scheyer has been great at Duke, better than I expected. But Kelvin Sampson and Mark Few are far and away 1 and 2 on this list, and Painter is probably 3. Scheyer will probably pass any that don't win a national title (which would then move him off of this list anyway, but that's besides the point), but as of today? Come on.
And Fred Hoiberg above Rick Barnes?
Anyone with these duke players would look like a hall of fame coach. Throw wojo in there
Quote from: Johnny B on March 18, 2026, 01:10:14 PMAnyone with these duke players would look like a hall of fame coach. Throw wojo in there
Yep, I would hold back judgment on Scheyer. He can coach great talent that the Duke name and machine brings. But, as you suggest, would he do any better at MU than Wojo did?
Excellent Recruiting Helps Coach Win
A wild and new take, for sure, and it applies only to Scheyer.
Quote from: Johnny B on March 18, 2026, 01:10:14 PMAnyone with these duke players would look like a hall of fame coach. Throw wojo in there
A coach has the responsibility to recruit that talent right?
Quote from: Nukem2 on March 18, 2026, 01:19:47 PMYep, I would hold back judgment on Scheyer. He can coach great talent that the Duke name and machine brings. But, as you suggest, would he do any better at MU than Wojo did?
Scheyer is in year four. It is his program now.
By year four, Hank had Marquette in the NIT. Mike Davis had Indiana completely out of the NCAAs. Gene Bartow hightailed it out of Westwood to UAB. Bill Guthridge retired from UNC.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 18, 2026, 01:23:00 PMA coach has the responsibility to recruit that talent right?
Usally but duke is one of the rare cases where the name itself brings in the big recruits regardless of coach. Scheyer ain't brining in 5 stars every year at MU
Quote from: Johnny B on March 18, 2026, 01:33:34 PMUsally but duke is one of the rare cases where the name itself brings in the big recruits regardless of coach. Scheyer ain't brining in 5 stars every year at MU
Ahhh...
Not sure if this a hot take, but as sad as I am about MU not dancing, I think this might end up being one of the more compelling NCAA tournaments in recent memory.
While I fully expect to see at least three 1 seeds in the Final Four as KenPom history would suggest, it seems like there's way more potential for chaos among the rest of the field than there was last year. And even if most games end up being chalk, game quality will still probably be great, considering that the total offensive output of the teams dancing this year is the highest it's been in decades.
Hopefully the potential matchups and major storylines we're all looking forward to live up to the hype. Surely it won't be as tame as 2025... right?
Scheyer is a really good coach. Yes, he gets talent a lot of schools dont. But he runs really good stuff on offense, and adjusts it well each year based on his personnel.
He's a much, much better coach than Coach K was his last 5-10 years. That was the definition of just getting talent and rolling the ball out there each game. Scheyer does actually coach well in games.
LFG Redhawks.
That is all.
Quote from: Oldgym on March 18, 2026, 08:41:01 PMLFG Redhawks.
That is all.
Energy in Dayton is really fun right now. SMU clearly more athletic and better size across the floor, but they playing really loose and stupid. Miami just has to let them and hit their shots
Uhhhhh....Miami O likes the trifecta. But they're a good passing team.
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 18, 2026, 08:59:30 PMUhhhhh....Miami O likes the trifecta. But they're a good passing team.
It's what they do. As Wags said, SMU's carelessness is helping.
Miami watched a lot of SGA and Embiid film.
Quote from: wadesworld on March 18, 2026, 09:40:16 PMMiami watched a lot of SGA and Embiid film.
They are moving the ball with incredible speed and efficiency and burying shots of the rotations. But you focus on them drawing fouls, which has never been a part of their game (it's totally good coaching by Steele cause SMU is biting and jumping on everything)...cause you've been gleefully posting all week that they will get blown out and look silly. ::) ::)
Even if they lose this game, they've more than acquitted themselves as belonging
Quote from: wadesworld on March 18, 2026, 09:40:16 PMMiami watched a lot of SGA and Embiid film.
Right now they're outplaying SMU.
4 fouls on Elmer could be a prob.
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 18, 2026, 09:54:12 PM4 fouls on Elmer could be a prob.
Sounds like a glue guy
Quote from: JWags85 on March 18, 2026, 09:48:47 PMThey are moving the ball with incredible speed and efficiency and burying shots of the rotations. But you focus on them drawing fouls, which has never been a part of their game (it's totally good coaching by Steele cause SMU is biting and jumping on everything)...cause you've been gleefully posting all week that they will get blown out and look silly. ::) ::)
Even if they lose this game, they've more than acquitted themselves as belonging
Congrats to them for shooting out of their minds. Surprised Suder hasn't concussed himself.
Quote from: wadesworld on March 18, 2026, 10:02:24 PMCongrats to them for shooting out of their minds. Surprised Suder hasn't concussed himself.
I don't see them shooting out of their minds. They're outplaying them to this point. They also don't turn the ball over.
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 18, 2026, 10:05:14 PMI don't see them shooting out of their minds. They're outplaying them to this point. They also don't turn the ball over.
They're definitely outplaying SMU. They're also shooting out of their minds.
Miami jacking threes up 11 within 5 sevs?
Quote from: wadesworld on March 18, 2026, 10:13:36 PMThey're definitely outplaying SMU. They're also shooting out of their minds.
They're shooting 39% from three.
On the season, they're shooting 39.2% from three.
Quote from: Pakuni on March 18, 2026, 10:18:01 PMThey're shooting 39% from three.
On the season, they're shooting 39.2% from three.
Yes.
Congrats to Miami O.
Quote from: Pakuni on March 18, 2026, 10:18:01 PMThey're shooting 39% from three.
On the season, they're shooting 39.2% from three.
They made 16 when they average 10 made on the season, and more importantly they started 2/11 and then went 14/27 until missing their last 3. They're a team that doesn't shoot many 3s and went nuts on them for the middle 2/3 of the game.
Quote from: wadesworld on March 18, 2026, 10:31:56 PMThey made 16 when they average 10 made on the season, and more importantly they started 2/11 and then went 14/27 until missing their last 3. They're a team that doesn't shoot many 3s and went nuts on them for the middle 2/3 of the game.
They were the better team. Take a moment and just congratulate them. I think losing in the MAC tournament helped them.
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 18, 2026, 10:34:49 PMThey were the better team. Take a moment and just congratulate them. I think losing in the MAC tournament helped them.
Congratulations to Miami Ohio for winning a play in game. I'm sure they appreciate MUScoop.
Quote from: wadesworld on March 18, 2026, 10:36:36 PMCongratulations to Miami Ohio for winning a play in game. I'm sure they appreciate MUScoop.
Why would you want SMU? It's not about the play-in game. It's about being honest and just admitting you were wrong.
Quote from: wadesworld on March 18, 2026, 10:31:56 PMThey made 16 when they average 10 made on the season, and more importantly they started 2/11 and then went 14/27 until missing their last 3. They're a team that doesn't shoot many 3s and went nuts on them for the middle 2/3 of the game.
Just say you haven't watched them and stop making a fool of yourself cause you were loudly wrong about them in 4-5 different posts. They were a top 10 3PT percentage shooting team in the country. 3 of their top 5 scorers average 5 3PT attempts per game. They average 27 3PT attempts per game, how is that "don't shoot many 3s"? Enfield game planned to take out Suder and the mid range so Steel said going into the game they were gonna shoot more 3s.
You're acting like they were mediocre 3P shooting team who shot 5X as many 3s as they normally shoot. They shot under their season percentage from 3 and scored under their season average for points. If you watched them at all this season, this sort of game is EXACTLY how they beat people all year long. Scoring barrages out of nowhere predicated on ball movement and a 4 out alignment.
Hilarious that people said they didn't belong and would get destroyed by any power 5 or "legit" team, and now it's shifted to they are lucky that they got hot and "they only won a play in game, LOLZ"
Quote from: JWags85 on March 18, 2026, 10:43:31 PMJust say you haven't watched them and stop making a fool of yourself cause you were loudly wrong about them in 4-5 different posts. They were a top 10 3PT percentage shooting team in the country. 3 of their top 5 scorers average 5 3PT attempts per game. They average 27 3PT attempts per game, how is that "don't shoot many 3s"? Enfield game planned to take out Suder and the mid range so Steel said going into the game they were gonna shoot more 3s.
You're acting like they were mediocre 3P shooting team who shot 5X as many 3s as they normally shoot. They shot under their season percentage from 3 and scored under their season average for points. If you watched them at all this season, this sort of game is EXACTLY how they beat people all year long. Scoring barrages out of nowhere predicated on ball movement and a 4 out alignment.
Hilarious that people said they didn't belong and would get destroyed by any power 5 or "legit" team, and now it's shifted to they are lucky that they got hot and "they only won a play in game, LOLZ"
I think they'll get rolled by Tennessee but I'm happy they won tonight. 32-0, they deserve a shot on a Thursday or Friday
Good for Miami University. Good team. I wouldn't have had them have to play in a play in game.
Quote from: JWags85 on March 18, 2026, 10:43:31 PMJust say you haven't watched them and stop making a fool of yourself cause you were loudly wrong about them in 4-5 different posts. They were a top 10 3PT percentage shooting team in the country. 3 of their top 5 scorers average 5 3PT attempts per game. They average 27 3PT attempts per game, how is that "don't shoot many 3s"? Enfield game planned to take out Suder and the mid range so Steel said going into the game they were gonna shoot more 3s.
You're acting like they were mediocre 3P shooting team who shot 5X as many 3s as they normally shoot. They shot under their season percentage from 3 and scored under their season average for points. If you watched them at all this season, this sort of game is EXACTLY how they beat people all year long. Scoring barrages out of nowhere predicated on ball movement and a 4 out alignment.
Hilarious that people said they didn't belong and would get destroyed by any power 5 or "legit" team, and now it's shifted to they are lucky that they got hot and "they only won a play in game, LOLZ"
So you want to make the claim that they shot under their 3 point percentage from 3 when it was by under 0.2%, but then are mad I said they went crazy from 3 when they made 60% more 3 pointers than their season average?
Okay lol.
Quote from: wadesworld on March 19, 2026, 07:41:19 AMSo you want to make the claim that they shot under their 3 point percentage from 3 when it was by under 0.2%, but then are mad I said they went crazy from 3 when they made 60% more 3 pointers than their season average?
Okay lol.
Dude, just take the L. You're getting to Ners-level nonsense about this.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 19, 2026, 07:45:25 AMDude, just take the L. You're getting to Ners-level nonsense about this.
Ners level would be claiming 39.02% is shooting worse than their 39.2% from 3 while getting mad at someone saying they went crazy from 3 in a game they hit 60% more than their season average. Wait sorry, 58.8% more threes.
Quote from: wadesworld on March 19, 2026, 07:49:14 AMNers level would be claiming 39.02% is shooting worse than their 39.2% from 3 while getting mad at someone saying they went crazy from 3 in a game they hit 60% more than their season average. Wait sorry, 58.8% more threes.
As I said...
Quote from: The Sultan on March 19, 2026, 07:45:25 AMDude, just take the L. You're getting to Ners-level nonsense about this.
Quote from: wadesworld on March 18, 2026, 10:36:38 AMhttps://www.si.com/college-basketball/ranking-mens-ncaa-tournament-coaches-who-have-never-won-national-championship
I'm a Gonzaga hater, but what are we even doing here? Scheyer has been great at Duke, better than I expected. But Kelvin Sampson and Mark Few are far and away 1 and 2 on this list, and Painter is probably 3. Scheyer will probably pass any that don't win a national title (which would then move him off of this list anyway, but that's besides the point), but as of today? Come on.
And Fred Hoiberg above Rick Barnes?
Why do you hate Gonzaga?
Quote from: wadesworld on March 18, 2026, 10:31:56 PMThey made 16 when they average 10 made on the season, and more importantly they started 2/11 and then went 14/27 until missing their last 3. They're a team that doesn't shoot many 3s and went nuts on them for the middle 2/3 of the game.
That was their game plan because of SMU's size advantage. Steele said they wanted to shoot 40 3's, and they shot 41. It's not like they were just chucking as the clock wound down. Plus, they were able to spread out the SMU interior D for some really nice cuts to the basket for easy lay-ins, the dagger dunk, and to get to the line. It was a really nice game plan.
Meanwhile, Charlie Baker just needs to come out and say, "I'm doing this because the Big Ten and SEC have yelled at me because Indiana, Oklahoma, and Auburn didn't get in, and my job now is to do their bidding."
FOUR non-P4+Big East at large bids in this year's tournament (SLU, SMC, SCU, Miami (OH)), the fewest ever. VCU deserved a bid over NC State or SMU.
NCAA President Charlie Baker continues to push for March Madness expansion: "If you talk to most of the membership and ask 'what percentage of the schools would you like to see in the tournament?' Most people would say at least 20%.
I don't even know how this is controversial. Other than making 21 and 20 threes against division 2 (or 3? Or NAIA?) opponents, their season high in 3 pointers made was 14 against division 1 opponents and they did that just once. They made 10 on average (sorry, 10.2). They made 16 last night, which is a First Four record. They went crazy from 3. That's not even trolling it's literally just a fact.
https://x.com/goodmanhoops/status/2034608604284629421?s=46
But it was only a play-in game and they were lucky they got hot.
Vols crush them.
Quote from: JWags85 on March 18, 2026, 10:43:31 PMJust say you haven't watched them and stop making a fool of yourself cause you were loudly wrong about them in 4-5 different posts. They were a top 10 3PT percentage shooting team in the country. 3 of their top 5 scorers average 5 3PT attempts per game. They average 27 3PT attempts per game, how is that "don't shoot many 3s"? Enfield game planned to take out Suder and the mid range so Steel said going into the game they were gonna shoot more 3s.
You're acting like they were mediocre 3P shooting team who shot 5X as many 3s as they normally shoot. They shot under their season percentage from 3 and scored under their season average for points. If you watched them at all this season, this sort of game is EXACTLY how they beat people all year long. Scoring barrages out of nowhere predicated on ball movement and a 4 out alignment.
Hilarious that people said they didn't belong and would get destroyed by any power 5 or "legit" team, and now it's shifted to they are lucky that they got hot and "they only won a play in game, LOLZ"
Quote from: wadesworld on March 19, 2026, 07:41:19 AMSo you want to make the claim that they shot under their 3 point percentage from 3 when it was by under 0.2%, but then are mad I said they went crazy from 3 when they made 60% more 3 pointers than their season average?
Okay lol.
I'm not "mad" I just think you're making a hilariously weak argument to pretend they are still a terrible team like you claim, they just got "lucky". Their 3P percentage relative to their season average is completely relevant to claiming they went "crazy" because that implies some sort of Jean Felix style outlier performance. As I mentioned, Steele said in his pregame talks with the commentators that if Enfield schemed to take the mid range, he wanted to shoot 40 3s. Which is far from a crazy thing when you have a team that shoots like they do.
Using 60% more as some sort of trump card is hilarious too. If a team won in part because one of their starters averaging 10 PPG scored 16 on the exact same shooting splits as he had all season, nobody would say that player went crazy.
You were wrong, its fine, lots of people were. SMU had a terrible game plan. They schemed like Miami was typical double digit seed minnow..."oh they have the conference POY, lets take him out and make the rest of them beat us" ignoring that 5 other guys score in double digits on the season and shoot the lights out. And then as the game progressed, SMU started playing even more reckless and careless with their closeouts, their switches, etc... despite being bigger and far more athletic. They had a distinct advantage inside, Miami has struggled with big centers like Yigitoglu all year, and he had his way quickly on 2-3 possessions, then Miami adjusted a bit on defenses, and SMU stopped going to him and he very foolishly got in foul trouble in silly fashion.
Does Miami get rolled tomorrow? I would be very shocked if they didn't. Rick Barnes is a HOF coach who has been fantastic in the tournament recently in Knoxville (also, who is particularly adept at defensive scheming and who won't make the same mistakes Enfield did) and will have the best player on the court by far in Gillespie. If Ament is healthy enough to be effective, not only is he an McD AA and lottery pick, he's the kind of player Miami is just not equipped to handle. It's a nightmare matchup for Miami, IMO. But none of that lessens what they accomplished or their tournament worthiness cause they lost to a team that has beaten Bama, Houston, and stomped Louisville.
Quote from: PointWarrior on March 19, 2026, 08:17:26 AMBut it was only a play-in game and they were lucky they got hot.
Vols crush them.
(https://media1.tenor.com/m/_aaq_Pu9PZYAAAAC/moving-goalposts.gif)
Again, no clue why "it was just a play-in game" is a dig. Everyone crowed for a week that they would get destroyed by a P5 team that they were supposedly dodging all year with their schedule. Now they beat one, and did so convincingly, and suddenly people act like its a closed door scrimmage. Nobody is claiming this is like Miami made a S16 run and shocked the world.
And continuing to call their performance "lucky" shows either a bizarre unnecessary bias (unless you love SMU as your second team cause Craig James is a close family friend) or a complete ignorance about basketball.
Quote from: wadesworld on March 19, 2026, 08:08:34 AMI don't even know how this is controversial. Other than making 21 and 20 threes against division 2 (or 3? Or NAIA?) opponents, their season high in 3 pointers made was 14 against division 1 opponents and they did that just once. They made 10 on average (sorry, 10.2). They made 16 last night, which is a First Four record. They went crazy from 3. That's not even trolling it's literally just a fact.
Sorry, but this isn't what "went crazy from three" or "shot out of their minds" means. Those statements suggest a team made shots at a greater rate than normally expected, not that they simply took more three-point shots than normal. Miami's shooting last night was very much on par with their norm.
Downplaying their win because they took advantage of the looks the defense was giving them, or because it's "only a play-in game," are such a weird copes. It's OK. Lots of people were wrong on this one.
Miami now has less than 48 hrs to play Tennessee in Philadelphia. Not a great system.
Quote from: Tarragona on March 19, 2026, 09:01:29 AMMiami now has less than 48 hrs to play Tennessee in Philadelphia. Not a great system.
??? They play late Friday afternoon. It's fine.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 19, 2026, 09:07:38 AM??? They play late Friday afternoon. It's fine.
They're flying on a charter from Dayton to Philly. They've probably checked into their hotels already. It's not like their next game is in Portland or San Diego and they're flying Southwest through Midway and Denver.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 19, 2026, 09:07:38 AM??? They play late Friday afternoon. It's fine.
No, it isn't. It's a big disadvantage.
Quote from: Tarragona on March 19, 2026, 09:44:12 AMNo, it isn't. It's a big disadvantage.
They could have scheduled better or not lost the game in their conference tournament.
Love that they got a double-digit win over SMU. All the haters are just dead inside and have no business taking in the NCAA Tournament. If you can't feel good for 5 seconds about the Miami (OH) story, then college hoops just isn't for you. Stick to yelling at clouds and threatening children for stepping on your lawn...
Quote from: Tarragona on March 19, 2026, 09:44:12 AMNo, it isn't. It's a big disadvantage.
11 seeds that have won a play-in game have gone on to win their next game 42.9% of the time.
The win rate for 11 seeds not in the play-in game is 38.8%.
Doesn't seem to be a big disadvantage.
Quote from: Pakuni on March 19, 2026, 10:19:03 AM11 seeds that have won a play-in game have gone on to win their next game 42.9% of the time.
The win rate for 11 seeds not on the play-in game is 38.8%.
Doesn't seem to be a big disadvantage.
Two play-in game 11 seeds have made the Final Four (VCU and UCLA), and in 12 of the 14 years of having the "first four," at least one first four team has won their next game and three others have made the sweet 16 coming out of the first four.
Quote from: Pakuni on March 19, 2026, 10:19:03 AM11 seeds that have won a play-in game have gone on to win their next game 42.9% of the time.
The win rate for 11 seeds not in the play-in game is 38.8%.
Doesn't seem to be a big disadvantage.
Sure it is. Just because some of them have won their next games doesn't mean it isn't a disadvantage. They have done so in spite of a disadvantage.
Quote from: Tarragona on March 19, 2026, 09:44:12 AMNo, it isn't. It's a big disadvantage.
It is fine. That's the issue they deal with as a play-in.
Furthermore I think playing after being off a week actually helps them.
Quote from: Tarragona on March 19, 2026, 10:33:34 AMSure it is. Just because some of them have won their next games doesn't mean it isn't a disadvantage. They have done so in spite of a disadvantage.
They're coming in hot off a win while the other team is flat and has been sitting around. Disadvantage for Tennessee.
it's a dig because they played another crapty 11 seed. The "P4 team destroys the Kenpom #88" crowd was expecting a 11 vs 5 game to demonstrate this. Which it will...
Quote from: JWags85 on March 19, 2026, 08:30:52 AM(https://media1.tenor.com/m/_aaq_Pu9PZYAAAAC/moving-goalposts.gif)
Again, no clue why "it was just a play-in game" is a dig. Everyone crowed for a week that they would get destroyed by a P5 team that they were supposedly dodging all year with their schedule. Now they beat one, and did so convincingly, and suddenly people act like its a closed door scrimmage. Nobody is claiming this is like Miami made a S16 run and shocked the world.
And continuing to call their performance "lucky" shows either a bizarre unnecessary bias (unless you love SMU as your second team cause Craig James is a close family friend) or a complete ignorance about basketball.
Or just be better during the season so you dont have to play in a play in game.
Quote from: Tarragona on March 19, 2026, 10:33:34 AMSure it is. Just because some of them have won their next games doesn't mean it isn't a disadvantage. They have done so in spite of a disadvantage.
We have 15 years of data on this. If it were a disadvantage, wouldn't it have shown up by now?
There's no evidence that being in a play-in game lessens a team's chances of winning in the next round.
Quote from: PointWarrior on March 19, 2026, 10:46:08 AMit's a dig because they played another crapty 11 seed. The "P4 team destroys the Kenpom #88" crowd was expecting a 11 vs 5 game to demonstrate this. Which it will...
If they're waiting on an 11 vs 5 game to demonstrate this, they're going to be waiting a long time.
Quote from: PointWarrior on March 19, 2026, 10:46:08 AMit's a dig because they played another crapty 11 seed. The "P4 team destroys the Kenpom #88" crowd was expecting a 11 vs 5 game to demonstrate this. Which it will...
Got it. So its not "they will get killed by any major conference team, they are only good against bad small schools" anymore and how even SMU will cruise by double digits. Now its "they can't beat top 25 ranked power conference programs"...got it. If they somehow beat Tennessee, I'm sure it will be because Ament isn't fully healthy and the tourney is a crap shoot, even bad schools get lucky, proves nothing.
fat fingered - 11 vs 6
Quote from: Pakuni on March 19, 2026, 10:50:08 AMIf they're waiting on an 11 vs 5 game to demonstrate this, they're going to be waiting a long time.
yep...
Quote from: JWags85 on March 19, 2026, 10:54:08 AMGot it. So its not "they will get killed by any major conference team, they are only good against bad small schools" anymore and how even SMU will cruise by double digits. Now its "they can't beat top 25 ranked power conference programs"...got it. If they somehow beat Tennessee, I'm sure it will be because Ament isn't fully healthy and the tourney is a crap shoot, even bad schools get lucky, proves nothing.
Quote from: Pakuni on March 19, 2026, 10:48:51 AMWe have 15 years of data on this. If it were a disadvantage, wouldn't it have shown up by now?
There's no evidence that being in a play-in game lessens a team's chances of winning in the next round.
Just because an individual or a team is successful, doesn't mean they weren't successful in spite of being at a competitive disadvantage. Happens on a regular basis.
Well there goes
My perfect bracket after the first game :)
UW up by 2 over High Point at the half.
Quote from: muwarrior69 on March 19, 2026, 01:34:54 PMUW up by 2 over High Point at the half.
Damn! HP needs to wake up.
UW might want to start playing some defense. HP has missed a ton of open 3s.
Badgers are going to
The final four aren't they. Every 3 star dude they got is Steve Novak out there.
Quote from: Johnny B on March 19, 2026, 02:24:06 PMBadgers are going to
The final four aren't they. Every 3 star dude they got is Steve Novak out there.
Sweet 16 probably. As long as Zona doesn't get upset before then, that should be where there road ends though.
Zona is a different level when they are clicking.
Wisky up 1 on High Point, under a minute left. The last two minutes have been nuts.
They're in a battle with High Point and we're worried about a Final Four run.
Andrew Rohde is their defensive stopper for goodness sake. Acuff should get 50 on them.
They cant guard anyone. You wont go far in March like that.
Watching Nick Boyd die on every screen is hilarious. If he doesnt have the ball on offense he just doesnt try at all.
CHRISTMAS IN MARCH. Thanks High Point.
Quote from: JTJ3 on March 19, 2026, 02:45:47 PMThey cant guard anyone. You wont go far in March like that.
Watching Nick Boyd die on every screen is hilarious. If he doesnt have the ball on offense he just doesnt try at all.
Spends more energy yelling at Blackwell for...who knows what after Boyd's man just runs by him in transition for a layup.
GE in shambles. Gard always gets it done. In the B1G Tournament.
People here are hilarious. "Boyd and Blackwell are a great backcourt. They're a real Final Four threat."
They don't defend. Of course in March anything can happen. NC State made a Final Four run. Wisconsin wouldn't be the worst team to ever make one. But people act like they're some legitimately top 5 team is crazy.
Gard always gets it done.
This board will never stop overestimating Wisconsin.
That's a shame.....
Gard choked lmao.
Extend Gard!
Viper will toast High Point tnite!!
Big Ten 0-2
Nebraska won.
What a win!
That guy having his only 2 point shot of his season turning out to be the game winner is absolutely incredible. That's a story that can only be completed in March!
Great game. HP offense sort of like Shaka's, with live or die from the three, they took 40 today. Except HP has some players that can shoot, going 40% from three. Brought back memories of two years ago with MU being a two seed losing to eleven seed NCST, with MU going 4 for 31. UGH....
Now can Siena hold on with Duke, now that would be something.
Quote from: BM1090 on March 19, 2026, 02:53:25 PMGard always gets it done.
This board will never stop overestimating Wisconsin.
SCCCRRRREEEEWWWW WISCONSIN
Quote from: mugrad_89 on March 19, 2026, 02:54:16 PMExtend Gard!
let's not get carried away, my friend. After all, Gard owns Shaka.
Well s hit..
I have a Final Four of MSU, Illinois, Arizona, Iowa State with AZ beating Illinois so I hope the Big Ten teams on the left side of the bracket start winning some games lol.
John Blackwell portal watch now
LMAO someone do a wellness check on village idiot Eric the Red
Cam'Ron Fletcher, who Marquette recruited a million years ago, with 14 and 11 for High Point.
https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRDqiOvMXjP5YfmDHrLH2LvV_5YIKLsEVpk7t1Brw4zcA&s
Nope
When that guy pulled from just over half court down 8 and drilled it...that just felt like a March moment. Then he delivers with his first 2 pointer of the season.
This month is breathtaking 😂
Gard always gets it done.
Except in 5/12 games.
Quote from: JTJ3 on March 19, 2026, 03:02:34 PMJohn Blackwell portal watch now
20 points at the half. Not many shots in the second half...
Quote from: Viper on March 19, 2026, 02:58:38 PMlet's not get carried away, my friend. After all, Gard owns Shaka.
If I can't watch Marquette throw away a 2 seed in March, I sure as crap can get blasted to the fact that Wisconsin can be upset in March.
@withoutbias OMG Alcohol at 3pm! ON A THURSDAY!
Quote from: Oldgym on March 19, 2026, 02:55:45 PMNebraska won.
Only ten teams in the Big Ten, the rest are mercenaries.
Second best thing about March. ABB!
https://x.com/john_fanta/status/2034723078165393429?s=46
The debate about whether playing in a first four game gives teams an advantage or puts them at a disadvantage reminds me of the two years in the early 80s when the field had 48 teams and each region had four teams that got byes.
The higher seeded teams that got the byes lost half of their first games in those two years to the teams that had played a game two nights earlier. That established for me that there is an advantage to playing a tournament game and getting the tournament jitters out of your system, and getting used to the tournament surroundings.
Quote from: Pakuni on March 19, 2026, 03:05:12 PMCam'Ron Fletcher, who Marquette recruited a million years ago, with 14 and 11 for High Point.
I knew I recognized the name, but didn't remember why. Wow he's been around forever.
Siena up 13 over Duke one minute in 2nd half.
Quote from: Oldgym on March 19, 2026, 03:05:53 PMBracket not so good? Same here.
Unless somebody picked Wisconsin to go far in the tournament, there's no reason for their bracket to be in bad shape already.
YES!!!
YES, YES, YES, YES, YES!!!!!!!!
Thank you High Point. Thank you. :)
Here come the pitchforks for Gard......
All those big wins for naught!
Season will be remembered as the High Point tourney win season!
I was concerned about Whisky....
But now I am no longer concerned.
My strategy worked!!! :)
What a great day!
Oh...hey Farley.
Suck on that!!!!!
:)
Quote from: We R Final Four on March 19, 2026, 03:18:47 PMHere come the pitchforks for Gard......
All those big wins for naught!
Season will be remembered as the High Point tourney win season!
Tourney is a crapshoot?
Whole season shouldn't be judged by just the tournament?
Duke is just so hatable.. all they gotta do is send a text in their underwear and 3 top 15 recruits show up every single year. Never any different just the same banal bs.
This was the only UW team that I remotely liked. Oh well. They'll be digging deep in the portal, which they are good at.
Hahahahahahahaha!
Greg Gard is NOT the coach we (or anyone else) wants to emulate.
So fun!
This tournament just got so much more enjoyable. Amazing for this early on a Thursday when your team isn't playing in it.
What a start to the day.
ALWAYS getting it done ... again!
1 out of 39 in my pool had High Point, so I think I'm still in it. :)
Quote from: wisblue on March 19, 2026, 03:17:54 PMUnless somebody picked Wisconsin to go far in the tournament, there's no reason for their bracket to be in bad shape already.
S16.
1/4 so far.
The kid who made the winning basket for High Point - that was his first 2-point hoop of the season.
Well done, Weasels!
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on March 19, 2026, 03:32:57 PMThis tournament just got so much more enjoyable. Amazing for this early on a Thursday when your team isn't playing in it.
What a start to the day.
You're trying way too hard to convince people you're happy Gard, the great coach, didn't get it done, like he always does.
Quote from: MU82 on March 19, 2026, 03:35:45 PMThe kid who made the winning basket for High Point - that was his first 2-point hoop of the season.
Well done, Weasels!
And High Point had never beat a high major program in their history.
Quote from: WhiteTrash on March 19, 2026, 03:34:39 PM1 out of 39 in my pool had High Point, so I think I'm still in it. :)
I had High Point, too. Of course, I also had USF over Louisville. But if I had to only get one of those two right, I'll take the Weasels going home losers. Again.
Quote from: Pakuni on March 19, 2026, 03:05:12 PMCam'Ron Fletcher, who Marquette recruited a million years ago, with 14 and 11 for High Point.
Rob Martin had 23 and 10 for High Point today. He played with the same AAU program as Fletcher.(slightly younger)
Fletcher was AAU teammates with Ryan Kalkbrenner and Caleb Love.
Quote from: wadesworld on March 19, 2026, 03:36:16 PMYou're trying way too hard to convince people you're happy Gard, the great coach, didn't get it done, like he always does.
I don't like Gard, but I do think he's a good coach.
This has nothing to do with Gard though and everything to do with the fact that I don't have to worry about some BS run by Wisconsin.
Weasels get outrebounded ... by a more athletic team!
Quote from: MU82 on March 19, 2026, 03:41:34 PMWeasels get outrebounded ... by a more athletic team!
Siena was out-rebounding Duke just a few possessions ago. Crazy.
Sienna can not grab a board
I've got NcNeese moving on. Fingers crossed.
Pissconsin
Quote from: wadesworld on March 19, 2026, 03:37:02 PMAnd High Point had never beat a high major program in their history.
They still haven't....
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on March 19, 2026, 03:39:19 PMI don't like Gard, but I do think he's a good coach.
Is he, though? Since Bo's players left, Gard has won a total of 3 NCAA games in 9 years, with zero second-weekend appearances.
Just shy of always getting it done!
I hope he gets a lifetime contract from Weasel Land.
I don't know about only playing 5 players all game for Sienna. They look like they are out of gas.
High Point would crush Miami,OH if they played
Quote from: cheebs09 on March 19, 2026, 03:50:46 PMThey still haven't....
Thank God UW is out ...
I can now enjoy the tournament ;D
May have to get a HP Hoodie ... lol
Quote from: CountryRoads on March 19, 2026, 03:56:24 PMI don't know about only playing 5 players all game for Sienna. They look like they are out of gas.
Was about to post this. Probably would've had more than 1 field goal over the last 8 minutes of the game if the bench logged more than 0:00 combined time.
Quote from: CountryRoads on March 19, 2026, 03:56:24 PMI don't know about only playing 5 players all game for Sienna. They look like they are out of gas.
Former Sienna coach Mike Deane would have had 87 substitutions and zero timeouts left in the first 10 minutes
Loved seeing that showboating punk Boyd being the guy who missed the last two shots, too.
Wave your arms at the crowd now, buddy!
Quote from: MU82 on March 19, 2026, 03:52:25 PMIs he, though? Since Bo's players left, Gard has won a total of 3 NCAA games in 9 years, with zero second-weekend appearances.
Just shy of always getting it done!
I hope he gets a lifetime contract from Weasel Land.
I guess it is opinionated. He seems to get more out of his teams than he should. This team looked horrible, out of the dance, in January and then they beat Michigan and went on a roll all the way to a 5 seed.
I don't really feel like arguing about it though because I'm just as happy with the result as you!
Dook looks very unimpressive.
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on March 19, 2026, 04:08:45 PMI guess it is opinionated. He seems to get more out of his teams than he should.
Yeah...I'm not so sure about that.
It's kinda fun watching these games knowing that any one of them with eligibility could be a candidate to be in an MU jersey next year. You never know!
A new wrinkle to our offseasons.
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on March 19, 2026, 04:08:45 PMI guess it is opinionated. He seems to get more out of his teams than he should. This team looked horrible, out of the dance, in January and then they beat Michigan and went on a roll all the way to a 5 seed.
I don't really feel like arguing about it though because I'm just as happy with the result as you!
Annual first round exits with Blackwell/Storr/Hepburn, Blackwell/Tonje, Blackwell/Boyd backcourts? I think most college coaches could achieve that.
Quote from: wadesworld on March 19, 2026, 04:14:39 PMAnnual first round exits with Blackwell/Storr/Hepburn, Blackwell/Tonje, Blackwell/Boyd backcourts? I think most college coaches could achieve that.
Maybe. Those guys were also way better at Wisconsin than anywhere else.
Storr was basically a joke everywhere else. Tonje's career high average was 14 at Colorado St. Averaged almost 20 at UW. Nick Boyd's career high average was 13 PPG. He averaged 21 this year. They get a lot of guys to play to their peak over the course of a season. Not so much in elimination games. Which is perfect for us.
Quote from: MU82 on March 19, 2026, 03:38:48 PMI had High Point, too. Of course, I also had USF over Louisville. But if I had to only get one of those two right, I'll take the Weasels going home losers. Again.
#metoo
Second half for the Weasels: 7 turnovers, 3 made 3s.
Chokers!!!
Duke looked pretty bad today. They need to get their big guy back, at least. Boozer kept hesitating and losing the ball. They're lucky that Sienna's guys were exhausted at the end.
12, 11, 12, 6, 12. The seeds of Mr. Always Gets It Done's losses in 5 of his last 6 Tournaments. Plus one missed Tournament in there.
Quote from: MU82 on March 19, 2026, 04:43:43 PMSecond half for the Weasels: 7 turnovers, 3 made 3s.
Chokers!!!
Nice!!! Thanks for the detailed update. Didn't a diminutivish guard shred them? What else did I miss? Ty.
Quote from: williewarrior on March 19, 2026, 04:53:44 PMGood one
williewarrior is but a pale, weak homunculus of the original gormless willie warrior, Dung Willie
Quote from: wadesworld on March 19, 2026, 04:54:53 PM12, 11, 12, 6, 12. The seeds of Mr. Always Gets It Done's losses in 5 of his last 6 Tournaments. Plus one missed Tournament in there.
Has Eric the Red cried conspiracy by the NCAA yet for underseeding all rodent opponents?
https://x.com/castellani2014/status/2034721246320238709?s=61
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 19, 2026, 05:22:39 PMNice!!! Thanks for the detailed update. Didn't a diminutivish guard shred them? What else did I miss? Ty.
Yeah, High Point had a quick little guard who regularly got past Boyd and Blackwell. Fun to watch!
Loved lil boyD getting swatted at the end. Good night, becky!
Quote from: MU82 on March 19, 2026, 06:32:22 PMYeah, High Point had a quick little guard who regularly got past Boyd and Blackwell. Fun to watch!
Fk yes!! I believe he's a sub 6-footer?
:)
VCU with a disastrous 1st half.
Martelli Jr's team is getting throttled.
Upset alert for Michigan.
50 points in a half isn't enough to put away Howard when they make 10 of their last 12 three-point shots.
https://x.com/GovEvers/status/2034624140737388589?s=20
Quote from: Pakuni on March 19, 2026, 07:25:04 PMhttps://x.com/GovEvers/status/2034624140737388589?s=20
I bet he submitted more than one bracket
Quote from: wisblue on March 19, 2026, 07:24:48 PMUpset alert for Michigan.
50 points in a half isn't enough to put away Howard when they make 10 of their last 12 three-point shots.
Howard doesn't look intimidated. But they could have a rough 2H. :(
Putrid 20 mins from SMC. Very disappointing.
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 19, 2026, 07:28:38 PMPutrid 20 mins from SMC. Very disappointing.
They are slow.
Quote from: Pakuni on March 19, 2026, 07:25:04 PMhttps://x.com/GovEvers/status/2034624140737388589?s=20
I heard he placed a $15,000,000 bet on Bucky.
My bracket was perfect through the first 8 but it's about to come crashing down this window
Quote from: BM1090 on March 19, 2026, 07:43:29 PMMy bracket was perfect through the first 8 but it's about to come crashing down this window
hell first 8 pretty impressive tbh
VCU ties it up!
The Muggs curse got UNC.
What an awful coaching job by Hubert Davis. In complete control against an overmatched VCU and the game completely flipped. Then you kind of have VCU scrambling to set up defensively and you call a timeout and your play is completely blown up when you pull about 6 of the 10 guys into a 5 square foot space on the floor and turn it over.
Nyk Lewis has turned out to be quite the PG as well. As I recall, MU also recruited him. No regrets from MU's perspective though.
I thought VCU's setup for the last play of regulation looked dumb. Turned out worse than I imagined and almost disastrous
BYU spends boatloads of cash on this roster to get blown out in round one. Fing losers
Quote from: Johnny B on March 19, 2026, 08:14:17 PMBYU spends boatloads of cash on this roster to get blown out in round one. Fing losers
Their second best player tore his ACL. This wasn't a surprising result.
Quote from: Zog from Margo on March 19, 2026, 08:01:40 PMNyk Lewis has turned out to be quite the PG as well. As I recall, MU also recruited him. No regrets from MU's perspective though.
Think we got the right guy but agree he looks good.
Huge collapse for UNC, but Martelli Jr is an impressive young coach. He walked into a good situation at VCU (though continuing the success is not a given), but what he did at Bryant was REALLY impressive.
And unique/impressive to me is that, despite being the son of a super respected and long time successful coach, he never coached under his dad after playing for him (save for a year in an administrative move after his entire G League staff got let go late in the cycle). He spent 20 years as an assistant at mediocre programs in the NEC and MAAC, none under coaches from his dad's coaching tree for that matter. Despite having a recognizable name, dude paid his dues. Id be pretty surprised if hes not in a Big East or ACC job in the next 5 years.
Quote from: wadesworld on March 19, 2026, 08:17:07 PMTheir second best player tore his ACL. This wasn't a surprising result.
wish i knew this before i picked them
Chapel Hill. Welcome to Search SZN.
Thank you VCU!!! :)
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 19, 2026, 08:22:25 PMThank you VCU!!! :)
This 20+ year former Richmonder is loving it!
Great city, great fans at VCU. :D
Quote from: wadesworld on March 19, 2026, 08:00:35 PMThe Muggs curse got UNC.
What an awful coaching job by Hubert Davis. In complete control against an overmatched VCU and the game completely flipped. Then you kind of have VCU scrambling to set up defensively and you call a timeout and your play is completely blown up when you pull about 6 of the 10 guys into a 5 square foot space on the floor and turn it over.
:)
Quote from: wadesworld on March 19, 2026, 08:17:07 PMTheir second best player tore his ACL. This wasn't a surprising result.
But also, it's Sean Miller with a lead in the NCAA Tournament so we'll see what happens.
Quote from: MurphysTillClose on March 19, 2026, 08:21:39 PMChapel Hill. Welcome to Search SZN.
Not only blows a 19 point lead, but pockets a TO on the five second call 😬😬😬
Pretty entertaining first day of the tournament, with one more window of games to go. Hopefully the late window gives us even more theatrics.
You know High Point could make some NIL money by putting this on a poster and selling it to scoopers......
https://x.com/espn/status/2034759288816595214?s=61
Quote from: The Sultan on March 19, 2026, 08:32:06 PMNot only blows a 19 point lead, but pockets a TO on the five second call 😬😬😬
Great point!
:) :) :) :) :)
Quote from: MuMark on March 19, 2026, 08:43:14 PMYou know High Point could make some NIL money by putting this on a poster and selling it to scoopers......
https://x.com/espn/status/2034759288816595214?s=61
If you want to learn more about High Point:
https://www.wsj.com/us-news/education/north-carolina-college-high-point-amenities-30b0fc14?st=NxvURW&reflink=desktopwebshare_permalink
Question:
Where is Farley? I was hoping to hear his analysis of the Weasel choke job.
Quote from: williewarrior on March 19, 2026, 04:53:44 PMGood one
Your approval is more important to me than you kids birthdays, Willie
Quote from: Pakuni on March 19, 2026, 10:19:03 AM11 seeds that have won a play-in game have gone on to win their next game 42.9% of the time.
The win rate for 11 seeds not in the play-in game is 38.8%.
Doesn't seem to be a big disadvantage.
https://x.com/i/status/2034813653254377869
Quote from: TallTitan34 on March 17, 2026, 02:37:58 PMStop using these.
https://x.com/reboundrundown/status/2033972691548422200?s=46
Tom Brady is horrified at this news.
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 19, 2026, 09:01:28 PMQuestion:
Where is Farley? I was hoping to hear his analysis of the Weasel choke job.
He's put down the keyboard for the season.
#Fartleyisachode
The Billikens are going medieval right now.
Wow. SLU up 25.
Don't think they have enough to beat Michigan but they run some good stuff
Quote from: BM1090 on March 19, 2026, 10:28:09 PMDon't think they have enough to beat Michigan but they run some good stuff
This is absolutely crazy. 91 points with 8 mins to go? It's not like Georgia hasn't beaten good teams.
The Georgia manatees smh
But the portal is going to ruin the mid-majors.
I kind of hate where the flagrant rule is at right now. It's not really based at all on intentionally, just if the contact connects or not
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 19, 2026, 10:54:11 PMThis is absolutely crazy. 91 points with 8 mins to go? It's not like Georgia hasn't beaten good teams.
Yes, but UGA is a classic Mike White team, they don't play defense. They have beat good teams and score a ton of points, but EVERYONE scores on them. They gave up 85+ 6 times in the last 10 games of the regular season. They also lost to a 15 win Ole Miss team twice in 12 games, including in the SEC tournament, and got blown out by an OU team playing in the Crown, not the NIT.
SLU had a great game plan and looked great, but they did what teams have been doing to UGA all season.
I think Texas rolls this Gonzaga team
Quote from: JWags85 on March 19, 2026, 11:28:23 PMYes, but UGA is a classic Mike White team, they don't play defense. They have beat good teams and score a ton of points, but EVERYONE scores on them. They gave up 85+ 6 times in the last 10 games of the regular season. They also lost to a 15 win Ole Miss team twice in 12 games, including in the SEC tournament, and got blown out by an OU team playing in the Crown, not the NIT.
SLU had a great game plan and looked great, but they did what teams have been doing to UGA all season.
OU was like the 2nd team out. Chose to skip the NIT.
Completely agree on Georgia
Quote from: BM1090 on March 19, 2026, 11:28:02 PMI kind of hate where the flagrant rule is at right now. It's not really based at all on intentionally, just if the contact connects or not
On the other hand, do we want college basketball officials guessing what was in a player's mind when making those calls?
Quote from: Pakuni on March 19, 2026, 11:51:52 PMOn the other hand, do we want college basketball officials guessing what was in a player's mind when making those calls?
No, but on some you can tell it's clearly unintentional. And I'd like them to let those go.
It's a gray area, I get it
Quote from: BM1090 on March 19, 2026, 11:31:21 PMI think Texas rolls this Gonzaga team
The Zags were most unimpressive. Gonzaga and Duke were the two most disappointing winners on Day 1.
Quote from: JWags85 on March 19, 2026, 11:28:23 PMYes, but UGA is a classic Mike White team, they don't play defense. They have beat good teams and score a ton of points, but EVERYONE scores on them. They gave up 85+ 6 times in the last 10 games of the regular season. They also lost to a 15 win Ole Miss team twice in 12 games, including in the SEC tournament, and got blown out by an OU team playing in the Crown, not the NIT.
SLU had a great game plan and looked great, but they did what teams have been doing to UGA all season.
Every team loses conference games. Connecticut lost to 12 win Marquette. St. John's lost to 15 win Providence. Happens in other leagues too. Ole Miss defeated Texas, Georgia, and Alabama in the SEC Tourney before losing by a basket in OT to Arkansas.
Georgia had wins over 6 NCAA Tourney teams. plus a few close losses to others. They won 22 games, and, they had one of the best offenses in the country this season. They scored over 100 points 8 times. They scored at least 80 points in 24 games this season.
Quote from: MU82 on March 20, 2026, 12:18:14 AMThe Zags were most unimpressive. Gonzaga and Duke were the two most disappointing winners on Day 1.
True, but remember our last FF run MU was not impressive to start the Tourney.
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 19, 2026, 05:22:39 PMNice!!! Thanks for the detailed update. Didn't a diminutivish guard shred them? What else did I miss? Ty.
Here you go, Muggsy.
https://x.com/i/status/2034848499863613581 (https://x.com/i/status/2034848499863613581)
Quote from: BM1090 on March 20, 2026, 12:10:23 AMNo, but on some you can tell it's clearly unintentional. And I'd like them to let those go.
It's a gray area, I get it
True, but there are also other not-so-grey areas like Brennan's elbow into Nigel's face in the Nova game that was not called. ::)
https://x.com/MarchMadnessMBB/status/2034715272301396376?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E2034715272301396376%7Ctwgr%5Eca01933922bf7fb0ce20ec7506e8f94d0c9d3a56%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.jsonline.com%2Fstory%2Fsports%2Fcollege%2Fuw%2F2026%2F03%2F19%2Fwisconsin-high-point-basketball-march-madness-reactions%2F89219951007%2F
Quote from: Juan Anderson's Mixtape on March 20, 2026, 07:26:06 AMHere you go, Muggsy.
https://x.com/i/status/2034848499863613581
Nice!! I thought Rohde was their best defender? Lol.
Quote from: Zog from Margo on March 20, 2026, 08:04:52 AMhttps://x.com/MarchMadnessMBB/status/2034715272301396376?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E2034715272301396376%7Ctwgr%5Eca01933922bf7fb0ce20ec7506e8f94d0c9d3a56%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.jsonline.com%2Fstory%2Fsports%2Fcollege%2Fuw%2F2026%2F03%2F19%2Fwisconsin-high-point-basketball-march-madness-reactions%2F89219951007%2F
Count that!!
Quote from: Pakuni on March 19, 2026, 11:19:04 PMBut the portal is going to ruin the mid-majors.
I had the same thought, although the sample size is small. The Mid Majors put on quite a show for being written off after immediate transfers were allowed.
Quote from: Scoop Snoop on March 20, 2026, 08:14:13 AMI had the same thought, although the sample size is small. The Mid Majors put on quite a show for being written off after immediate transfers were allowed.
Hyperbole remains undefeated.
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 20, 2026, 08:08:12 AMNice!! I thought Rohde was their best defender? Lol.
He is. Which is why anyone worrying the Badgers were doing anything besides their annual first weekend exit under Gard were nuts. Acuff would've had 40 points and 12 assists against them.
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 19, 2026, 10:54:11 PMThis is absolutely crazy. 91 points with 8 mins to go? It's not like Georgia hasn't beaten good teams.
Georgia expected to outscore Saint Louis. It's how they play. 8 games of 100 or more points. 15 games of 90 or more points. 24 games of 80 or more points. Both teams were two of the best offensive teams nationally this year. But Saint Louis also had a top ten FG% defense too. UGA didn't get to 50 points until 10:30 remaining in the game.
Their offense was obviously elite, but staying in front of your man, having switchable defenders, 3 point contest, some rim protection, rebounding, etc....helped the separation, making it a 40 point lead at one point. They've very good when they combine those things.
Quote from: Scoop Snoop on March 20, 2026, 08:14:13 AMI had the same thought, although the sample size is small. The Mid Majors put on quite a show for being written off after immediate transfers were allowed.
It helps that two of those mid majors (SLU and High Point) have high major NIL budgets and VCU is close. SLU used that money to pilfer Indiana State's roster.
I was gonna make a joke yesterday about how if anyone's going to be let in to the Big East, I'd be happy to accept High Point.
Had no idea until this morning that the coach of HPU is literally the planned successor of Greg McDermott. Creighton fans must be thrilled.
Quote from: Zog from Margo on March 20, 2026, 08:04:52 AMhttps://x.com/MarchMadnessMBB/status/2034715272301396376?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E2034715272301396376%7Ctwgr%5Eca01933922bf7fb0ce20ec7506e8f94d0c9d3a56%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.jsonline.com%2Fstory%2Fsports%2Fcollege%2Fuw%2F2026%2F03%2F19%2Fwisconsin-high-point-basketball-march-madness-reactions%2F89219951007%2F
This shot will likely be what I remember most from this tournament regardless of what happens next. An unreal momentum shifter. Could not believe he let that fly 😂
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on March 20, 2026, 10:13:47 AMThis shot will likely be what I remember most from this tournament regardless of what happens next. An unreal momentum shifter. Could not believe he let that fly 😂
Amazing shot. I actually thought his next three was even more impressive. Drifting left to the left wing, momentum going away from the hoop kind of unnaturally, sliver of space, and he just drills it in an equally big spot.
Quote from: Juan Anderson's Mixtape on March 20, 2026, 07:26:06 AMHere you go, Muggsy.
https://x.com/i/status/2034848499863613581 (https://x.com/i/status/2034848499863613581)
Rob Martin is generously listed at 5'10. He is not 5'10. He was recruited to Indiana State by Josh Schertz out of high school. High school point guard for Caleb Love. Definitely a blow by player, not known as a shooter.
Quote from: BM1090 on March 20, 2026, 10:26:45 AMAmazing shot. I actually thought his next three was even more impressive. Drifting left to the left wing, momentum going away from the hoop kind of unnaturally, sliver of space, and he just drills it in an equally big spot.
And then he hit another running off a rub-screen to the right to pull them within 1 with 55 seconds left. Just a perfectly timed heater from #99.
Quote from: Billy Hoyle on March 20, 2026, 09:55:45 AMIt helps that two of those mid majors (SLU and High Point) have high major NIL budgets and VCU is close. SLU used that money to pilfer Indiana State's roster.
SLU only added two players from Indiana State. And, one of the two graduated last year.
As a new coach, Schertz has been active in the portal. As time goes by it will be more of a balance of portal and high school/player development.
But their transfers are from:
Northern Illinois, Xavier, Virginia, St. John's, Boston College, Quinnipiac. Avila is their only ISU player.
St. Louis is unquestionably the best college basketball program in the country now. All hail Coach Schertz!
Quote from: MU82 on March 20, 2026, 10:56:55 AMSt. Louis is unquestionably the best college basketball program in the country now. All hail Coach Schertz!
Making me miss UDFlyer.
Quote from: Tarragona on March 20, 2026, 10:42:01 AMRob Martin is generously listed at 5'10. He is not 5'10. He was recruited to Indiana State by Josh Schertz out of high school. High school point guard for Caleb Love. Definitely a blow by player, not known as a shooter.
Watching the game, it was almost like someone whispered "F with em" in his ear.
Early, but Santa Clara looks more impressive to me than Gonzaga or SMC did.
Santa Clara transfers are from:
VIllanova, West Valley, Michigan State, Iowa, Jackson State.
They have a good roster mix of high school, portal, and International players. Balanced, and efficient offense. Fun team.
Regretting my Akron S16 pick.
There are 2-3 play by play guys in this tournament that generally have no idea what's going on on the floor.
Most of them, but it's time to start rethinking some of these broadcast crews.
Feeling slightly better about my Akron S16 pick
The tournament is the best.
That was nuts.
UK and Santa Clara to OT.
Quote from: Pakuni on March 20, 2026, 01:16:57 PMThe tournament is the best.
Is it just me or did the clock start a little late, giving Kentucky a chance to get that tying shot off?
I rolled it back on my TV and there were 2.4 seconds left on the clock when the SC shot went through. Kentucky threw the ball in and a guy had it and took a dribble and I paused again and the clock still said 2.4.
It's nitpicking, but 1/10 of a second can decide a game. It would be nice to get it precisely right
Quote from: wisblue on March 20, 2026, 01:26:18 PMIs it just me or did the clock start a little late, giving Kentucky a chance to get that tying shot off?
I rolled it back on my TV and there were 2.4 seconds left on the clock when the SC shot went through. Kentucky threw the ball in and a guy had it and took a dribble and I paused again and the clock still said 2.4.
It's nitpicking, but 1/10 of a second can decide a game. It would be nice to get it precisely right
Sendek was a little late pulling the trigger on the TO.
Quote from: Zog from Margo on March 20, 2026, 01:27:31 PMSendek was a little late pulling the trigger on the TO.
Yeah and the ref isn't required to look at him.
Quote from: Zog from Margo on March 20, 2026, 01:27:31 PMSendek was a little late pulling the trigger on the TO.
Not only that but the SCU players were running back celebrating instead of defending.
No issue with the no timeout, but some other really bad calls to kind of give this game to UK
Those are all different points than the question of whether the timekeeper didn't start the clock as soon as the Kentucky player touched the ball. It should take more than point two seconds to catch the ball turn and take a dribble.
Quote from: Billy Hoyle on March 20, 2026, 01:30:27 PMNot only that but the SCU players were running back celebrating instead of defending.
Not all of them. It was definitely contested.
Quote from: wisblue on March 20, 2026, 01:32:11 PMThose are all different points than the question of whether the timekeeper didn't start the clock as soon as the Kentucky player touched the ball. It should take more than point two seconds to catch the ball turn and take a dribble.
It's a human doing the work. It's not that big of a deal.
Tough one for Santa Clara. Sendek would have been better off calling timeout to the baseline ref (closer proximity) rather than chasing the sideline ref in a loud venue. (He called in time). Oweh had a game.
Really nice season for the Broncos. They return a lot. Interesting to see how their roster ends up for next year and who they can keep. Hope they can keep it going.
Quote from: Tarragona on March 20, 2026, 01:49:25 PMTough one for Santa Clara. Sendek would have been better off calling timeout to the baseline ref (closer proximity) rather than chasing the sideline ref in a loud venue. (He called in time). Oweh had a game.
Really nice season for the Broncos. They only lose Mahi to graduation. He had a good game too, nice player. Interesting to see how their roster ends up for next year.
Dammit!!! Just saw the final score. Fk. :(
Quote from: Tarragona on March 20, 2026, 01:49:25 PMTough one for Santa Clara. Sendek would have been better off calling timeout to the baseline ref (closer proximity) rather than chasing the sideline ref in a loud venue. (He called in time). Oweh had a game.
Really nice season for the Broncos. They only lose Mahi to graduation. He had a good game too, nice player. Interesting to see how their roster ends up for next year.
Should have fouled up 3 and taken the W instead of letting UK get a shot off.
Quote from: BM1090 on March 20, 2026, 12:30:16 PMFeeling slightly better about my Akron S16 pick
Hey, they only lost by 20. Which is amazing, since they shot 80% from the line while TT was only 63%!
#FTsNoMatta
Quote from: The Sultan on March 20, 2026, 01:35:14 PMNot all of them. It was definitely contested.
Agree it was contested, but if Graves and one other guy on that side of the floor had stayed at home instead of running back to celebrate, Oweh probably doesn't get to half-court to take that shot.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 20, 2026, 01:35:54 PMIt's a human doing the work. It's not that big of a deal.
They hold up play for 5 minutes to watch replays to see if a tenth or two should be added to the clock.
If SC had gotten the timeout call they were asking for they probably would have reviewed it to see if the clock was STOPPED precisely when the ball cleared the net.
When a play like that happens how is it any different to look to see if the clock STARTED precisely when it should have.
If it was a game I really cared about it would be a big deal.
Quote from: wisblue on March 20, 2026, 02:10:08 PMThey hold up play for 5 minutes to watch replays to see if a tenth or two should be added to the clock.
If SC had gotten the timeout call they were asking for they probably would have reviewed it to see if the clock was STOPPED precisely when the ball cleared the net.
When a play like that happens how is it any different to look to see if the clock STARTED precisely when it should have.
If it was a game I really cared about it would be a big deal.
Because you'd be biased.
But it wasn't a big deal.
https://www.facebook.com/RealNCAAFTalk/posts/absolutely-crazy-finish-to-regulation-for-santa-clara-vs-kentucky-we-got-ot/1376462177616968/
Quote from: wisblue on March 20, 2026, 01:32:11 PMThose are all different points than the question of whether the timekeeper didn't start the clock as soon as the Kentucky player touched the ball. It should take more than point two seconds to catch the ball turn and take a dribble.
2 seconds to catch the ball and dribble? Not even close. And the clock on the TV isn't connected to the clock in the arena. It happens a lot in these last second shots where it looks like the clock isn't started right, but then the in arena clock shows it more accurately.
Plus it seemed like you could've stopped it about 0.2 seconds earlier after SC's made shot, and it looked like the shot was off by about 0.4 seconds.
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 20, 2026, 01:50:15 PMDammit!!! Just saw the final score. Fk. :(
Yep. Good game. 2nd half was more like how it was expected to go. I thought the Broncos could do it today. Tough ending. Fun team. Credit to UK. Made some plays. SCU could potentially run it back next year with everyone. (even Mahi for a 5th year.) Not sure if they can keep it together. Would like to see them get another shot at it next year.
Quote from: Hards Alumni on March 20, 2026, 01:50:49 PMShould have fouled up 3 and taken the W instead of letting UK get a shot off.
Foul with 2 seconds left?
Quote from: Johnny B on March 20, 2026, 02:54:06 PMFoul with 2 seconds left?
Yes, they were up 3, Kentucky shoots a 1 and 1. They'd have had to make the first, then intentionally miss the second, get the rebound and make a shot just to tie it.
Truly bizarre, albeit refreshing, to see a UVA team that wants to score the ball
Quote from: wadesworld on March 20, 2026, 02:40:37 PM2 seconds to catch the ball and dribble? Not even close. And the clock on the TV isn't connected to the clock in the arena. It happens a lot in these last second shots where it looks like the clock isn't started right, but then the in arena clock shows it more accurately.
It's POINT TWO seconds (0.2) not two full seconds. That's how much time was left when the tying shot left the shooter's fingers.
They say you can only catch and shoot in 0.3 scconds. It seems like catching the ball and dribbling 10 feet up court would take longer than that.
Quote from: wadesworld on March 20, 2026, 02:46:23 PMPlus it seemed like you could've stopped it about 0.2 seconds earlier after SC's made shot, and it looked like the shot was off by about 0.4 seconds.
This is the best angle to see what happened.
-2.4 to 2.6 left when the shot went through the net.
-Sendek runs to the ref who is running down the court to get into position - he should have gone to the baseline official.
-There is a delay in the clock starting. The clock is still at 2.4 after Oweh has taken his first dribble.
-.5 left on the clock when it leaves his hand
The biggest issue for me is that Graves and the other SCU player on that side of the court are running down the court, celebrating, leaving Oweh a clear path to half-court. Nobody on SCU comes to meet Oweh until he's into his shooting motion.
Forgot to post the link to the video:
https://x.com/KySportsRadio/status/2035062915548557585
Quote from: Billy Hoyle on March 20, 2026, 03:27:41 PMThe biggest issue for me is that Graves and the other SCU player on that side of the court are running down the court, celebrating, leaving Oweh a clear path to half-court. Nobody on SCU comes to meet Oweh until he's into his shooting motion.
Exactly! I couldn't
believe it when I saw them celebrating! ?-( ::)
Not happy with these early results. Hopefully Miami takes out Tenn.
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 20, 2026, 03:43:57 PMNot happy with these early results. Hopefully Miami takes out Tenn.
Alabama got off to a slow start. Seemed a little sluggish, almost too relaxed, and somewhat dazed and confused when Hofstra got up 10.
So, for all of you that have fond memories of steak night in the halls, at High Point they have two "learning labs" that are high end restraurants that students can eat at once a week as a part of their meal plan. This is the menu for their steak house:
chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://finedining.highpoint.edu/assets/media/uploads/PRIME/MainMenu_01_01_2026.
And here's their European Continental/Mediterranean restaurant. It's not quite McCormick Hall dining!
https://finedining.highpoint.edu/alo/about
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 20, 2026, 03:43:57 PMNot happy with these early results. Hopefully Miami takes out Tenn.
;D ;D ;D Oh, I don't
THINK so Muggsy.
Go Tennessee!
Edit: 48-28 near halftime. guess Miami need to go full Medieval.
Jeesh. Thank God High Point salvaged the entire first two days. :)
Gillespie is unreal. What a performance. Looking a young Markus Howard. Great gameplan from Barnes so far and totally let Miami get ahead of themselves after that hot start. They shoot/play like this, they'd boatrace UVA too
Quote from: JWags85 on March 20, 2026, 04:47:42 PMGillespie is unreal. What a performance. Looking a young Markus Howard. Great gameplan from Barnes so far and totally let Miami get ahead of themselves after that hot start. They shoot/play like this, they'd boatrace UVA too
I keep my thoughts to myself when I am in C'Ville, but honestly? UVA is good, but I think they were ranked too high this season. Agree that Tennessee will expose them.
Quote from: Billy Hoyle on March 20, 2026, 03:27:41 PMThis is the best angle to see what happened.
-2.4 to 2.6 left when the shot went through the net.
-Sendek runs to the ref who is running down the court to get into position - he should have gone to the baseline official.
-There is a delay in the clock starting. The clock is still at 2.4 after Oweh has taken his first dribble.
-.5 left on the clock when it leaves his hand
The biggest issue for me is that Graves and the other SCU player on that side of the court are running down the court, celebrating, leaving Oweh a clear path to half-court. Nobody on SCU comes to meet Oweh until he's into his shooting motion.
Forgot to post the link to the video:
https://x.com/KySportsRadio/status/2035062915548557585
The clock wouldn't start until Oweh touched the ball. I'm not seeing the delay.
Miami may want to keep those emails as "classified" next year. ;D I could email Broeker about trying to schedule a game against my 35+ rec team. They should be thankful nobody responded, because even with 1 regular season loss to Michigan they wouldn't have made the Tournament.
Maybe instead of playing 3 non-D1 opponents they should replace those with 3 solid mid majors if high majors "won't play them?" Might bump up their non-con strength of schedule from 363(!) to not one of the 3 worst non-con strength of schedules in the country.
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 20, 2026, 03:43:57 PMNot happy with these early results. Hopefully Miami takes out Tenn.
Wah wah wahhhh...
This is a spectacular game between Utah St and Nova.
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on March 20, 2026, 05:17:40 PMThis is a spectacular game between Utah St and Nova.
Down goes Villanova
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on March 20, 2026, 05:17:40 PMThis is a spectacular game between Utah St and Nova.
I guess it was until the Aggies took them out. Not surprising.
Quote from: wadesworld on March 20, 2026, 02:46:23 PMPlus it seemed like you could've stopped it about 0.2 seconds earlier after SC's made shot, and it looked like the shot was off by about 0.4 seconds.
It looked about right thru the net.
Pretty bad choke by Nova
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 20, 2026, 05:26:07 PMI guess it was until the Aggies took them out. Not surprising.
I remember Lazar Hayward and Co. being in a battle with the Aggies in March.
The Big East prevailed that day though!
Nova didn't beat anyone this year. Very beatable especially without hodge. Decent year one for Williard, hope they can improve for next year:
People still up in arms about me saying Nova is mid?
Quote from: wadesworld on March 20, 2026, 05:28:41 PMPeople still up in arms about me saying Nova is mid?
Who would that be?
Quote from: BM1090 on March 20, 2026, 05:27:03 PMPretty bad choke by Nova
Three Villanova points in the final 6:04.
Quote from: wadesworld on March 20, 2026, 05:28:41 PMPeople still up in arms about me saying Nova is mid?
Huh? No one here disagreed with that.
Not impressed by Nova's guard play
How good is UNI?
GAP
Quote from: withoutbias on March 20, 2026, 05:07:25 PMMiami may want to keep those emails as "classified" next year. ;D I could email Broeker about trying to schedule a game against my 35+ rec team. They should be thankful nobody responded, because even with 1 regular season loss to Michigan they wouldn't have made the Tournament.
Maybe instead of playing 3 non-D1 opponents they should replace those with 3 solid mid majors if high majors "won't play them?" Might bump up their non-con strength of schedule from 363(!) to not one of the 3 worst non-con strength of schedules in the country.
Marquette should be careful about scheduling 35+ rec teams. They might have a Ners
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on March 20, 2026, 05:27:25 PMI remember Lazar Hayward and Co. being in a battle with the Aggies in March.
The Big East prevailed that day though!
A legendary battle, some would say.
Nm.
Quote from: JWags85 on March 20, 2026, 04:47:42 PMGillespie is unreal. What a performance. Looking a young Markus Howard. Great gameplan from Barnes so far and totally let Miami get ahead of themselves after that hot start. They shoot/play like this, they'd boatrace UVA too
You could have a nice team of ex Belmont players. Gillespie, 18/6/3. Will Richsrd had 18 and 6 in the National Title game last year. Cade Tyson had 20 and 5 this year at Minnesota. Hence Casey Alexander decoded to make a move this year.
Tennessee has a very good defense with good enough offense. High floor. Low ceiling. (Unless they can find some additional offense)
The Miami and Akron results today are going to make it hard to refute opinions that Miami would have finished below .500 in a power conference.
Akron was arguably as good as or better than Miami but played some better teams (like Purdue) and had the misfortune of having their one game against Miami on the road (where they lost by 3 points).
Facing an athletic opponent Miami's vaunted five out 3 point shooting missed 22 out of 29. I'm glad I won't have to hear any more about them.
Quote from: Johnny B on March 20, 2026, 05:31:08 PMWho would that be?
Starts here. At least one other gets in on it. Feel free to scroll through.
https://www.muscoop.com/index.php?topic=67379.msg1794379#quickreply_anchor
Quote from: mileskishnish72 on February 18, 2026, 07:59:35 AMIf MU were 21-5 I doubt you'd be calling them "mid".
Quote from: MUbiz on February 18, 2026, 10:18:38 AMNot Nova's fault the Big East is terrible this year and they do not have the Q1 opportunities that the B10 and B12 have. They have won most of the games on their schedule and its enough to get into March Madness. Who cares about Nova being a second weekend team? That was not the point of this at all. The point was you are calling Nova mid when they are 21-5 and comfortably in the field. If MUBB was in this same scenario, I doubt you would be calling MUBB mid.
Quote from: wisblue on March 20, 2026, 05:58:54 PMThe Miami and Akron results today are going to make it hard to refute opinions that Miami would have finished below .500 in a power conference.
Akron was arguably as good as or better than Miami but played some better teams (like Purdue) and had the misfortune of having their one game against Miami on the road (where they lost by 3 points).
Facing an athletic opponent Miami's vaunted five out 3 point shooting missed 22 out of 29. I'm glad I won't have to hear any more about them.
Yes, but is Zippy still around?
Braden Smith becomes the NCAA's all time assist leader. Our own Tony Miller is 9th but averages .1 apg more than Smith.
Quote from: wisblue on March 20, 2026, 05:58:54 PMThe Miami and Akron results today are going to make it hard to refute opinions that Miami would have finished below .500 in a power conference.
Akron was arguably as good as or better than Miami but played some better teams (like Purdue) and had the misfortune of having their one game against Miami on the road (where they lost by 3 points).
Facing an athletic opponent Miami's vaunted five out 3 point shooting missed 22 out of 29. I'm glad I won't have to hear any more about them.
I think it's a fair point, but it's also worth noting that Tennessee isn't just a general power conference team. Year in and year out under Barnes they've been one of the best defensive teams in the SEC, and in the country. In particular, they are adept at taking the wind out of high scoring teams. This year alone, they held Louisville 20 points under their mid 80s average. They held Bama, the highest scoring team in the country under 80 not once but twice. They went on the road to Vandy and beat them, again holding a team that scores in the mid 80s to 65 points. It wasn't just Miami, it's what Tennessee does and has done for years under Barnes and why they've made 2 S16s and 2 E8s in the last 6 tournaments. They haven't been FF caliber teams cause they've lacked the offense to go with it. Like Tarragona mentioned, high floor low ceiling, not to mention they've lacked a dynamic game changing star. Other than Knecht, who have they had to be a difference maker? Grant Williams? Speaks to Barnes schemes and Xs and Os
As for Miami, I said the other day it was a terrible match up for them. But I don't think that alone means they would get worked by every power conference. They played an ACC team that was way more athletic and longer than them on Wed and worked them over and shot just fine. The difference wasn't that they finally faced an athletic team, it was in the game plan and how Miami's ball rotations were handled, which was night and day.
Do I think they would finish .500 in the SEC? Probably not. But that was easily the best conference in the country and stacked, which all power conferences aren't, and they wouldn't be going against a Rick Barnes defense each night. Some very good offensive teams used to struggle with Cuse's zone at its prime, but that didn't mean that those teams were actually not good offensive teams against anyone with length or that played zone.
Miami being ranked in the top 25 was awesome. But everyone knows polls mean nothing and they are a popularity contest which caters to momentum. No knowledgeable Miami fans I knew or basketball content people who loved the Miami story actually thought Miami was one of the 25 best teams in the country or realistically in line for a top 7 seed.
But now that it's over, both the streak and the season, I think people still truly take for granted how hard it is to go undefeated in conference, much less an entire season, regardless of conference strength or schedule. I'd confidently argue all of Brad Stevens' first 4 teams at Butler were better, comparatively, than this Miami team (obviously the 2 runner up teams were by a mile). But only 1 of those 4 teams went undefeated in conference and the Horizon was a weaker conference than the MAC. And the Butler runner up team that went undefeated in the Horizon lost by double digits to a mediocre UAB team that wasn't anywhere near the top of a weakened CUSA and barely snuck by an Evansville team that won 8 games that year. They also beat a Detroit program that finished bottom 3 in the Horizon by a combined 6 points over 2 games, including OT for one.
The next year Butler returned everyone, was even better, Hayward went from a first team all conference player to a lottery pick, and they still lost 5, FIVE, games in a crappy Horizon, including being swept by UMW (Rob Jeter UWM no less) and lost to Youngstown St who literally only won a single other ham in conference that year.
So what Miami did was pretty incredible and against every and all odds. Did the coverage get pretty overwhelming? I'm sure for some it did. But that's also the nature of the constant news cycle of sports these days. Gotta make a story more and more grandiose to keep it going. But for me, though biased, it was preferable to hearing 47 iterations of the same bubble talk from Lunardi and Decourcy about a very weak and mediocre bubble in terms of power conference teams
Is Willard the most unlikable coach in the conference by a mile?
There have been some exciting games and some minor upsets, but we're on the verge of a first round with all 16 protected seeds advancing. So far, High Point is the only automatic qualifier that wouldn't have received an at large bid moving to the second round.
No real bracket busting upsets except for anyone who picked Wisconsin or North Carolina or a real Cinderella to go far
Quote from: cheebs09 on March 20, 2026, 08:26:21 PMIs Willard the most unlikable coach in the conference by a mile?
Probably Pitino.
Quote from: Juan Anderson's Mixtape on March 20, 2026, 05:40:18 PMA legendary battle, some would say.
Marquette vs. the mighty USU Aggies with their legendary coach Stew Morrill. Ah, the memories ....
UCF down 6, they're 1-10 from the line in the second half. 4-14 overall. Brutal
Also, 12 missed layups. Sounds familiar
Had to work all day, what happened for #84 Kenpon ranked Miami, OH - did they prove they belong?
Quote from: Billy Hoyle on March 20, 2026, 08:43:42 PMUCF down 6, they're 1-10 from the line in the second half. 4-14 overall. Brutal
Also, 12 missed layups. Sounds familiar
I think "missed layups" is one of the most misleading stats there is. They count all shots taken from within a few feet of the basket as a layup no matter how contested they are or how tall the guys are that the shot has to go over.
They aren't all like shots in a layup line, and only someone who has never played basketball thinks those shots are easy.
Quote from: cheebs09 on March 20, 2026, 08:26:21 PMIs Willard the most unlikable coach in the conference by a mile?
Not as long as Pitino and Hurley are still around.
What is the slimeball coach rankings?
Self is up there.
God solo ball is terrible
Not having Demary looks like an issue for UCONN. It certainly will be Sunday if they can beat Furman.
Reed on pace for 30 rebs.
Wow. What a moronic play by Mullins.
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 20, 2026, 10:24:58 PMWow. What a moronic play by Mullins.
Felt like I was watching a Marquette game
Quote from: warriors141 on March 20, 2026, 10:26:40 PMFelt like I was watching a Marquette game
And it was after a time-out.
This UCONN team is so Jekyl and Hyde, often within a few min of each other in a half. It's so hard to get a consistent read on them. They could make the final four and content for the title...or they could let UCLA dictate the pace of the game and let Dent have a huge game like he did against MSU and lose by 8-10. Neither would surprise me to be honest.
Also, Reed is a monster and watching him rebound is amazing, but having him pass open wide open put back dunks to kick it out so they can burn clock when you're up
10 over a 15 seed is lame overly conservative "shorten the game" nonsense obsession coaching that you many coaches do. If Karajan hadn't hit that long 3 it would have looked like ridiculous strategy.
Quote from: wisblue on March 20, 2026, 09:18:59 PMNot as long as Pitino and Hurley are still around.
Agreed. Both of those guys are dicks. Pitino is a real slimeball. Both get the job done, however.
Quote from: JWags85 on March 20, 2026, 11:34:10 PMThis UCONN team is so Jekyl and Hyde, often within a few min of each other in a half. It's so hard to get a consistent read on them. They could make the final four and content for the title...or they could let UCLA dictate the pace of the game and let Dent have a huge game like he did against MSU and lose by 8-10. Neither would surprise me to be honest.
Also, Reed is a monster and watching him rebound is amazing, but having him pass open wide open put back dunks to kick it out so they can burn clock when you're up
10 over a 15 seed is lame overly conservative "shorten the game" nonsense obsession coaching that you many coaches do. If Karajan hadn't hit that long 3 it would have looked like ridiculous strategy.
Tell Hardon Alumni about Reed. He begs to disagree.
Quote from: JWags85 on March 20, 2026, 11:34:10 PMThis UCONN team is so Jekyl and Hyde, often within a few min of each other in a half. It's so hard to get a consistent read on them. They could make the final four and content for the title...or they could let UCLA dictate the pace of the game and let Dent have a huge game like he did against MSU and lose by 8-10. Neither would surprise me to be honest.
Also, Reed is a monster and watching him rebound is amazing, but having him pass open wide open put back dunks to kick it out so they can burn clock when you're up
10 over a 15 seed is lame overly conservative "shorten the game" nonsense obsession coaching that you many coaches do. If Karajan hadn't hit that long 3 it would have looked like ridiculous strategy.
UCLA's best big is out, but UCONN needs to get better performances from Ball and Mullins to win that game.
Quote from: Billy Hoyle on March 20, 2026, 03:58:17 PMSo, for all of you that have fond memories of steak night in the halls, at High Point they have two "learning labs" that are high end restraurants that students can eat at once a week as a part of their meal plan. This is the menu for their steak house:
chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://finedining.highpoint.edu/assets/media/uploads/PRIME/MainMenu_01_01_2026.
And here's their European Continental/Mediterranean restaurant. It's not quite McCormick Hall dining!
https://finedining.highpoint.edu/alo/about
Toured HP with my son after a soccer ID camp. It is a resort. It's gated, everything is pristine, music is piped in as you walk the paths, it's very white, it's very...mmm...uncomfortable. A bit like Augusta with the neighborhood outside the walls. But, gorgeous.
Very chalky Friday. Every game went according to seed except for two 9s beating 8s.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 21, 2026, 07:35:07 AMVery chalky Friday. Every game went according to seed except for two 9s beating 8s.
Should hopefully make for better weekend games. Though roughly half are still double digit spreads.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 21, 2026, 07:35:07 AMVery chalky Friday. Every game went according to seed except for two 9s beating 8s.
WE NEED EXPANsION!!!
Quote from: CountryRoads on March 21, 2026, 08:30:51 AMShould hopefully make for better weekend games. Though roughly half are still double digit spreads.
I'm surprised Michigan is favored by 12.5. St, Louis is a fast paced, high scoring team and that could be a problem for Michigan if their big men wear out or get in foul trouble.
Depth could be a problem for Michigan in this game with Cason out, and Lendeborg slowed by a sprained ankle.
Quote from: wisblue on March 21, 2026, 09:34:33 AMI'm surprised Michigan is favored by 12.5. St, Louis is a fast paced, high scoring team and that could be a problem for Michigan if their big men wear out or get in foul trouble.
Depth could be a problem for Michigan in this game with Cason out, and Lendeborg slowed by a sprained ankle.
I expect Michigan to cover.
Interesting choice by the selection committee to give a 13-seed (Cal Baptist) and a 10-seed (Mizzou) home-court advantage in first-round games. The better teams won, regardless, though San Diego arena was rocking during Cal Baptist's comeback vs. Kansas.
As for UConn ... unless Ball and Mullins figure things out, they are very vulnerable, even if Demary returns at full strength. If Reed ever gets in foul trouble, they are screwed. Even at full strength, they're not serious title contenders IMHO. Too many weaknesses this season, especially in the backcourt.
Mullins is about as overrated as a player as I can remember. And I'm fully prepared for John Horst to take him at 9 in the Draft.
SLU's BE invitation is going to be revoked if they don't turn things around in the 2nd half.
Quote from: Juan Anderson's Mixtape on March 21, 2026, 12:17:20 PMSLU's BE invitation is going to be revoked if they don't turn things around in the 2nd half.
Don't tell shoothoops's new username.
I caught the first 30 mins of the SLU/Michigan game on radio. Jason Benetti is absolutely fantastic. He may even be better on radio. He's way, way, way, better than Brian Anderson. Benetti and Eagle the Younger should be front and center announcing these games in the very near future.
Quote from: Jay Bee on March 21, 2026, 08:54:11 AM
WE NEED EXPANsION!!!
We do, and this is exactly why. Would strengthen the field and make upsets more likely.
Didn't see the first half so maybe Cadeau was good then, but he's the only reason I couldn't pick Michigan to win it all. Saw him play when he was at Link Academy and could not believe he was a top 15 recruit and a heavy UNC lean. He's just not that good, and he's little.
Quote from: wadesworld on March 21, 2026, 12:41:22 PMDidn't see the first half so maybe Cadeau was good then, but he's the only reason I couldn't pick Michigan to win it all. Saw him play when he was at Link Academy and could not believe he was a top 15 recruit and a heavy UNC lean. He's just not that good, and he's little.
And just like that, he goes to the bench and the route begins. I'd go point Yaxel a lot if I was Dusty.
Probably will come back in and continue to get alphaed mentally by a guy averaging 9 points in the A10 some more.
Quote from: wadesworld on March 21, 2026, 12:41:22 PMDidn't see the first half so maybe Cadeau was good then, but he's the only reason I couldn't pick Michigan to win it all. Saw him play when he was at Link Academy and could not believe he was a top 15 recruit and a heavy UNC lean. He's just not that good, and he's little.
He was good. Less so in the 2H.
This is a result the P4 is good with. It's fine is a mid major wins a first round game, but they have to know their place in the pecking order after the first weekend
Quote from: wadesworld on March 21, 2026, 10:42:39 AMI expect Michigan to cover.
Yup. Maybe SLU back door covers (don't think so), but there are levels to this. And these two are separated by numerous levels.
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 21, 2026, 12:29:22 PMI caught the first 30 mins of the SLU/Michigan game on radio. Jason Benetti is absolutely fantastic. He may even be better on radio. He's way, way, way, better than Brian Anderson. Benetti and Eagle the Younger should be front and center announcing these games in the very near future.
What's wrong with Brian Anderson? He's excellent.
To beat Michigan, SLU needed a Wisconsin type shooting performance and didn't get it.
Four double digit seeds made it to today, two are from the SEC. The first weekend just isn't as much fun as it was when teams like FCGU, Georgia State, LaSalle, Davidson, etc were crashing the party.
Quote from: Billy Hoyle on March 21, 2026, 01:42:27 PMFour double digit seeds made it to today, two are from the SEC. The first weekend just isn't as much fun as it was when teams like FCGU, Georgia State z LaSalle, Davison, etc were crashing the party.
Disagreed. A couple upsets in the first round? Sure. But Louisville Michigan State or USF vs. Michigan State today? I'll take Louisville vs. MSU all day.
I want to thank the Michigan Wolverines for grinding Saint Louis and Robbie Avila into dust today. Their fan base is the drizzling you-know-whats. One good season and they think they're a blue blood.
Quote from: HutchwasClutch on March 21, 2026, 01:16:47 PMWhat's wrong with Brian Anderson? He's excellent.
He's not as good as Benetti. He also wasn't prepared for two MU games this season as he constantly butchered names. I suppose I'm somewhat holding a grudge, but there are just better hoops pbp people.
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 21, 2026, 01:58:17 PMHe's not as good as Benetti. He also wasn't prepared for two MU games this season as he constantly butchered names. I suppose I'm somewhat holding a grudge, but there are just better hoops pbp people.
I've heard him do a ton of games and literally never heard him butcher a name. I was at some of the MU games he called this year, would love to hear the names he butchered.
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 21, 2026, 01:58:17 PMHe's not as good as Benetti. He also wasn't prepared for two MU games this season as he constantly butchered names. I suppose I'm somewhat holding a grudge, but there are just better hoops pbp people.
Want to get hammered drunk? Drink every time BA says Izzo's teams in March this or that
Quote from: HutchwasClutch on March 21, 2026, 02:02:43 PMI've heard him do a ton of games and literally never heard him butcher a name. I was at some of the MU games he called this year, would love to hear the names he butchered.
Can confirm he butchered names, including Nigel and Adrian. Nigel Jones. Can't remember what he called Adrian.
He's a really good PBP guy when prepared. But he has so many different responsibilities that his preparation has been lacking, which is understandable
Quote from: Uncle Rico on March 21, 2026, 02:15:13 PMWant to get hammered drunk? Drink every time BA says Izzo's teams in March this or that
Lol.
I'm also not a fan of the h-t crew. Although I've always liked Clark Kellogg. They did some insanely stupid skits. Perhaps some of these people should just exit NCAA hoops coverage stage left. :)
Again, the world is SOOOOO grateful for High Point. This would be the worst tournament opening few days without them.
Quote from: HutchwasClutch on March 21, 2026, 02:02:43 PMI've heard him do a ton of games and literally never heard him butcher a name. I was at some of the MU games he called this year, would love to hear the names he butchered.
Hutch,
He has. Trust me.
Getting rid of Blake Griffin and the Capitol One commercials should also be a priority. :)
Fears's foul bating, flopping around, and snapping his back would make Miami OH's entire roster blush.
Quote from: BM1090 on March 21, 2026, 02:32:40 PMCan confirm he butchered names, including Nigel and Adrian. Nigel Jones. Can't remember what he called Adrian.
He's a really good PBP guy when prepared. But he has so many different responsibilities that his preparation has been lacking, which is understandable
Jones instead of James and I don't remember. What a butcher
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 21, 2026, 02:47:32 PMHutch,
He has. Trust me.
Really convincing, thanks.
It is such a beautiful day in the Milwaukee metro area. And not having to worry about the red team making the Sweet 16 tonight is icing on the cake.
Quote from: brewcity77 on March 21, 2026, 01:41:04 PMTo beat Michigan, SLU needed a Wisconsin type shooting performance and didn't get it.
Yep. They had an off day with 3 point shooting, and an off game on free throws. You can't do that vs Michigan. SLU was 2nd nationally in 3 percentage. Credit to Michigan but there were some open looks there.
And on the flip side, their game plan was to concede late contest 3's and Michigan made 11 of them with 35% shooters. Tough to beat Michigan when they are making 3's.
Wisconsin gVe Michigan trouble on 3's. Purdue did it with pick and rolls. A few others with front court physicality which moany can't do against them.
MIchigan will he tough to beat if they continue to shoot like that.
Pretty good for almost 30 minutes. But it's a 40 minute game.
Quote from: Tarragona on March 21, 2026, 04:08:07 PMYep. They had an off day with 3 point shooting, and an off game on free throws. You can't do that vs Michigan. SLU was 2nd nationally in 3 percentage. Credit to Michigan but there were some open looks there.
And on the flip side, their game plan was to concede late contest 3's and Michigan made 11 of them with 35% shooters. Tough to beat Michigan when they are making 3's.
Wisconsin gVe Michigan trouble on 3's. Purdue did it with pick and rolls. A few others with front court physicality which moany can't do against them.
MIchigan will he tough to beat if they continue to shoot like that.
Pretty good for almost 30 minutes. But it's a 40 minute game.
The round of 32 is SLU's peak. They've never won more than one game in a tournament. Even during their best three-year stretch in program history (2011-12 through 2013-14), SLU's runs ended in the second round. I guess they'll always have those back-to-back NIT runners-up years to hang their hats on while getting US Representatives to beg for them to get into the Big East where every program has at least made an Elite 8 and all but two a Final Four (Creighton and Xavier).
I want to see a good seed get knocked out due to overinflated basketballs. Only then can I stop my blood sacrifices and heal my decrepit soul
Flagrant fouls in college basketball are going the way of targeting in college football. Especially with reviewing it. When you're dribbling the ball and a defender behind you catches your elbow as you're running there's nothing flagrant about that. That's more on the defender than anything.
Quote from: Billy Hoyle on March 21, 2026, 04:25:03 PMThe round of 32 is SLU's peak. They've never won more than one game in a tournament. Even during their best three-year stretch in program history (2011-12 through 2013-14), SLU's runs ended in the second round. I guess they'll always have those back-to-back NIT runners-up years to hang their hats on while getting US Representatives to beg for them to get into the Big East where every program has at least made an Elite 8 and all but two a Final Four (Creighton and Xavier).
This is why I chuckle at talk of SLU to the Big East. 1957 was their last Sweet 16. They've never had more than 3 consecutive bids. Their fans are talking about how sustainable this is when they've never sustained success ever.
They can get back to us after they play a couple games in April or make 8 tourneys in 10 years.
Quote from: brewcity77 on March 21, 2026, 05:24:22 PMThis is why I chuckle at talk of SLU to the Big East. 1957 was their last Sweet 16. They've never had more than 3 consecutive bids. Their fans are talking about how sustainable this is when they've never sustained success ever.
They can get back to us after they play a couple games in April or make 8 tourneys in 10 years.
And they didn't have to win a game to get to that Sweet 16 ;D ;D
Quote from: Shaka Shart on March 21, 2026, 05:03:53 PMI want to see a good seed get knocked out due to overinflated basketballs. Only then can I stop my blood sacrifices and heal my decrepit soul
I'm in a diabolical mood today. Tell me more about your blood sacrifices.
TCU has a chance. Certainly Texas has a shot. It would be nice to see some close games.
According to Barkley the Michigan performance was the best he's ever seen.
Do we really need a talking 🏀 prop?
Wow, just wow.
Quote from: Billy Hoyle on March 21, 2026, 04:25:03 PMThe round of 32 is SLU's peak. They've never won more than one game in a tournament. Even during their best three-year stretch in program history (2011-12 through 2013-14), SLU's runs ended in the second round. I guess they'll always have those back-to-back NIT runners-up years to hang their hats on while getting US Representatives to beg for them to get into the Big East where every program has at least made an Elite 8 and all but two a Final Four (Creighton and Xavier).
What does any of that have to do with my post since you quote tweeted my post? I was just talking about a game. It's also kind of a weird rant coming from you. Your are a SLU Law alum. Correct?
That was an absolutely ridiculous call in the Duke/TCU game.
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 21, 2026, 06:02:16 PMThat was an absolutely ridiculous call in the Duke/TCU game.
Yeah furthering my point on the flagrant fouls. They're just getting way over the top with these. "Hey kid, you can either brace your fall and get called for a flagrant foul, or break your neck."
Quote from: Scoop Snoop on March 21, 2026, 05:29:59 PMI'm in a diabolical mood today. Tell me more about your blood sacrifices.
Every MU loss is another high wake speed jaunt in a fishing boat through the manatee reserve
Quote from: wadesworld on March 21, 2026, 06:07:16 PMYeah furthering my point on the flagrant fouls. They're just getting way over the top with these. "Hey kid, you can either brace your fall and get called for a flagrant foul, or break your neck."
Exactly. That's seriously a joke.
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 21, 2026, 05:39:47 PMDo we really need a talking 🏀 prop?
Wow, just wow.
Yes
Refs miss a clear goaltend, then T up Jamie Dixon for telling them. Just compounding it.
Dixon doesn't look particularly happy.
23 to 7 in the FT department.
Quote from: wadesworld on March 21, 2026, 06:18:38 PMRefs miss a clear goaltend, then T up Jamie Dixon for telling them. Just compounding it.
Ya....I thought it was a gtend at first glance.
Quote from: wadesworld on March 21, 2026, 06:18:38 PMRefs miss a clear goaltend, then T up Jamie Dixon for telling them. Just compounding it.
very shady stuff going on
Quote from: HutchwasClutch on March 21, 2026, 03:23:27 PMJones instead of James and I don't remember. What a butcher
Not sure why you're taking this personally. It's not just MU games. It's most games he does.
It's not surprising now that he does hundreds of events per year across 4-5 sports.
He's a good announcer, he's just being asked to do too much
Wow. We really need a competitive game. Houston is absolutely throttling A&M.
I didn't realize Jefferson is likely out for ISU.
Who do you think will be the best pro among:
Dybantsa
Peterson
Boozer
Wilson
Flemings
Acuff
Wagler
Ty.
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 21, 2026, 06:49:01 PMWho do you think will be the best pro among:
Dybantsa
Peterson
Boozer
Wilson
Flemings
Acuff
Wagler
Ty.
Dybantsa
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 21, 2026, 05:39:47 PMDo we really need a talking 🏀 prop?
Wow, just wow.
Hey now. That's LaMelo Ball's grandfather you're talking about.
Let's go Zags. Need a better second half to win this one.
Quote from: wadesworld on March 21, 2026, 07:00:27 PMDybantsa
Agreed, but it wouldn't shock me if it's Acuff.
Quote from: Pakuni on March 21, 2026, 07:15:59 PMAgreed, but it wouldn't shock me if it's Acuff.
Yeah I agree. Or Peterson. I think his "camp" was guiding him poorly and realized it, which is why he's now playing every game/every half.
Incredible talent in this draft.
Who has the greatest upside? Ty.
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 21, 2026, 07:24:57 PMWho has the greatest upside? Ty.
It's the same answer.
Thus far, the high point of this tournament is every 5 seed and higher has won except one.
Quote from: Badgerhater on March 21, 2026, 07:33:01 PMThus far, the high point of this tournament is every 5 seed and higher has won except one.
.
Even better: 19/20 of top 5 seeds have won.
:)
:)
Two huge threes from Texas to close that game.
hello Minnesota! Can Heide who played w our aau kids nails it. Wow
The Cinderella in this tournament represents the richest athletic department in the country. ::)
Gonzaga not impressive, I shouldn't have picked them to go so far....
Quote from: Billy Hoyle on March 21, 2026, 08:11:33 PMThe Cinderella in this tournament represents the richest athletic department in the country. ::)
:(
Quote from: warriors141 on March 21, 2026, 08:12:25 PMGonzaga not impressive, I shouldn't have picked them to go so far....
No kidding. They aren't good. Purdue with an absolutely incredible draw. Miami is much better than any of the teams they could've met in the Sweet 16, given the Saunders injury. But even Miami isn't very good.
They waste another good seed and don't advance to the second weekend. Reminds me of us not taking advantage of our 2 seeds.
Why are we reviewing this Vandy vs. Nebraska play? Two guys tripped up. Foul called, inbound the ball. We're reviewing plays because irrational sports fans boo loudly now?
Quote from: wadesworld on March 21, 2026, 08:14:45 PMNo kidding. They aren't good. Purdue with an absolutely incredible draw. Miami is much better than any of the teams they could've met in the Sweet 16, given the Saunders injury. But even Miami isn't very good.
They were deserving of a three seed with Huff but without him they're nothing special. That should have been St.John's there instead of Gonzaga.
Quote from: SoCalEagle on March 21, 2026, 08:24:55 PMThey waste another good seed and don't advance to the second weekend. Reminds me of us not taking advantage of our 2 seeds.
They made nine straight Sweet 16's before losing to Houston last year
I had not watched Gonzaga until tonight. One god player inside and four others who take terrible midrange shots.
Works in the WAC, but not elsewhere.
Nebraska fans annoying, hope
Vandy pulls this one out
Duke Miles picked up a thumb injury in Thursday's game. He wrapped it but he didn't want to play with a wrap. He's a gamer but he doesn't look 50% of what he normally is for VU.
We've finally got two good games.
Quote from: warriors141 on March 21, 2026, 09:27:34 PMNebraska fans annoying, hope
Vandy pulls this one out
Agreed.
This Nebraska-Vandy game is a lot of fun.
2 huge put back rebs for Nebraska. This is why you must clean the glass.
Too much air in the ball
Wow. That almost dropped from 55 feet.
C'mon High Point!!!
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 21, 2026, 10:15:43 PMWow. That almost dropped from 55 feet.
Over inflated.
Nebraska fans traveled so well for that game. Amazed by how loud it sounded on TV.
There's no reason for a replay like this to take so long.
Not sure why Johnston would be guarding Acuff.
Acuff is no joke.
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 21, 2026, 10:15:43 PMWow. That almost dropped from 55 feet.
Gordon Hayward must have PTSD watching that ending.......
If Acuff is projected to go #10 or later, this is the best Draft of all-time.
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 21, 2026, 10:52:51 PMIf Acuff is projected to go #10 or later, this is the best Draft of all-time.
He's not.
Quote from: K1 Lover on March 21, 2026, 10:20:34 PMNebraska fans traveled so well for that game. Amazed by how loud it sounded on TV.
It sounded like it does when the Badgers play NCAA games in Milwaukee.
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 21, 2026, 10:55:46 PMTop 5?
Around 5 or a spot or 2 after.
Remember he is only 6'2 and doesn't play D......but he sure is a talented offensive lead guard.
Not lottery related but that Tanner from Vandy is a nice player too for a little guy.
Quote from: MuMark on March 21, 2026, 11:04:04 PMAround 5 or a spot or 2 after.
Remember he is only 6'2 and doesn't play D......but he sure is a talented offensive lead guard.
Not lottery related but that Tanner from Vandy is a nice player too for a little guy.
I dunno. My take is after Dybantsa it's not that clear.
Quote from: wisblue on March 21, 2026, 11:03:17 PMIt sounded like it does when the Badgers play NCAA games in Milwaukee.
Maybe, but Oklahoma Ctty is like 450 miles from Lincoln.
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 21, 2026, 11:11:28 PMI dunno. My take is after Dybantsa it's not that clear.
It's seems clear enough that he isn't going in the top 4......haven't seen 1 mock with him that high.
But we will see.......
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 21, 2026, 11:11:28 PMI dunno. My take is after Dybantsa it's not that clear.
Boozer, Dybantsa, and Peterson are the consensus top 3, though the order varies.
Caleb Wilson is the consensus #4.
Then it gets a little fuzzier but Kingston Flemings, Keaton Wagler, Darius Acuff, and Mikel Brown are likely top 10 picks.
I guess making Vanderbilt my surprise Final Four pick ain't gonna help my bracket from here on out.
Jamal Mashburn kept saying Acuff should be #2 pick
I don't see it. Offensively it's effortless. Defensively it's useless and between the ears it's a struggle
That said, with today's NBA the effortless offense trumps all.
He could wake up and avg 25 according to Jamal, and I think think he's wrong per se
Quote from: DoctorV on March 21, 2026, 11:47:09 PMJamal Mashburn kept saying Acuff should be #2 pick
I don't see it. Offensively it's effortless. Defensively it's useless and between the ears it's a struggle
That said, with today's NBA the effortless offense trumps all.
He could wake up and avg 25 according to Jamal, and I think think he's wrong per se
I'd consider him at 3.
I so want Illinois to lose....Going to a semi-pro Euro league 24 year old team is bending the rules past the limit....
Quote from: burger on March 22, 2026, 12:23:58 AMI so want Illinois to lose....Going to a semi-pro Euro league 24 year old team is bending the rules past the limit....
The oldest player in their starting lineup is 22. The others are 21, 20, 20 and 19.
The MU team that made the Sweet 16 two years ago went 22, 21, 21, 21 and 20.
Also, they go eight deep. Five of those eight are Americans.
There were zero fouls called on Nebraska in the final 9 plus minutes of their game.
Quote from: Tarragona on March 22, 2026, 08:32:44 AMThere were zero fouls called on Nebraska in the final 9 plus minutes of their game.
So? I don't think there were many, if any, clear fouls that should have been called that weren't. By either team.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 22, 2026, 08:37:48 AMSo? I don't think there were many, if any, clear fouls that should have been called that weren't. By either team.
5 fouls were called on the other team in that time.
Quote from: Tarragona on March 22, 2026, 08:45:58 AM5 fouls were called on the other team in that time.
So? The idea that fouls need to balance out is a dumb one.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 22, 2026, 08:50:01 AMSo? The idea that fouls need to balance out is a dumb one.
You were the one that just said in your post that you saw the fouls as even. Now to be pedantic and argumentative you don't think they should be balanced out. Got it.
This double dribble was a fun one top.
https://x.com/ayersreftracker/status/2035543869773779041?s=46
Quote from: Tarragona on March 22, 2026, 08:55:29 AMYou were the one that just said in your post that you saw the fouls as even. Now to be pedantic and argumentative you don't think they should be balanced out. Got it.
I absolutely did NOT say that. I said I didn't see many, if any, clear fouls that should have been called that weren't. Do you understand the concept of "clear fouls?"
Quote from: Tarragona on March 22, 2026, 08:55:29 AMYou were the one that just said in your post that you saw the fouls as even. Now to be pedantic and argumentative you don't think they should be balanced out. Got it.
This double dribble was a fun one top.
https://x.com/ayersreftracker/status/2035543869773779041?s=46
Nebraska was 7th in the nation in FTA/FGA defensively. They don't foul. Vandy was 295th defensively. Hardly surprising, but nah, probably a conspiracy.
Quote from: Uncle Rico on March 22, 2026, 08:59:28 AMNebraska was 7th in the nation in FTA/FGA defensively. They don't foul. Vandy was 295th defensively. Hardly surprising, but nah, probably a conspiracy.
It is not uncommon for things to happen in NCAA tourney games that aren't regular season norm. Vandy for example was 4th nationally in FT percentage. But they made just 11 of 19 in the game. Michigan shot 48% from 3, well above their average, and so on.
I watched the game. Even Sultan thought it was even.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 22, 2026, 08:58:39 AMI absolutely did NOT say that. I said I didn't see many, if any, clear fouls that should have been called that weren't. Do you understand the concept of "clear fouls?"
A 5 times discrepancy seems like a lot compared to your thoughts in your post.
Quote from: Tarragona on March 22, 2026, 09:05:23 AMIt is not uncommon for things to happen in NCAA tourney games that aren't regular season norm. Vandy for example was 4th nationally in FT percentage. But they made just 11 of 19 in the game. Michigan shot 48% from 3, well above their average, and so on.
I watched the game. Even Sultan thought it was even.
Nope. I understand that being educated in the St. Louis area gives you certain disadvantages in life, but that is neither what I said, nor implied.
Quote from: Tarragona on March 22, 2026, 09:08:50 AMA 5 times discrepancy seems like a lot compared to your thoughts in your post.
Nope. My posts were completely consistant.
Quote from: Tarragona on March 22, 2026, 09:05:23 AMIt is not uncommon for things to happen in NCAA tourney games that aren't regular season norm. Vandy for example was 4th nationally in FT percentage. But they made just 11 of 19 in the game. Michigan shot 48% from 3, well above their average, and so on.
I watched the game. Even Sultan thought it was even.
Thanks. Didn't realize that. Quite the revelation.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 22, 2026, 09:10:13 AMNope. My posts were completely consistant.
As consistent as the refs calling 18 fouls in the first 30 minutes on Nebraska, and then calling zero fouls on Nebraska the final 9 plus minutes.
Quote from: Tarragona on March 22, 2026, 09:14:02 AMAs consistent as the refs calling 18 fouls in the first 30 minutes on Nebraska, and then calling zero fouls on Nebraska the final 9 plus minutes.
Because they quit fouling
What's the STL connection with Vandy's team?
Quote from: wadesworld on March 22, 2026, 09:19:54 AMWhat's the STL connection with Vandy's team?
I post about a lot of games, and a lot of teams. Maybe give me a list of which ones bother you. We know you don't like Saint Louis, Miami University, Gonzaga, and many more. By the way you never did answer why said you are a Gonzaga hater. You recently posted that. So why is it?
Quote from: Tarragona on March 22, 2026, 09:24:41 AMI post about a lot of games, and a lot of teams.
But apparently you either don't watch them, or don't understand what you are seeing.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 22, 2026, 09:27:00 AMBut apparently you either don't watch them, or don't understand what you are seeing.
If Michigan hadn't shot 48% from 3, St. Louis would have only lost by 17 and not embarrassed themselves on national tv as bad.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 22, 2026, 09:27:00 AMBut apparently you either don't watch them, or don't understand what you are seeing.
"So? I don't think there were many, if any, clear fouls that should have been called that weren't. By either team."
Quote from: Tarragona on March 22, 2026, 09:45:20 AM"So? I don't think there were many, if any, clear fouls that should have been called that weren't. By either team."
You still don't understand what I am saying here? Yikes.
I'm interested to see how Peterson plays today vs St.John's.
Spero and Spenarkle are a great team.
Quote from: wadesworld on March 22, 2026, 11:25:41 AMSpero and Spenarkle are a great team.
Yes. I've always liked Spanarkel.
I like Jai Lucas. Has done a good job with Miami and doesn't seek to worry much about the refs. Keeps his team pretty composed.
Quote from: wadesworld on March 22, 2026, 12:38:42 PMI like Jai Lucas. Has done a good job with Miami and doesn't seek to worry much about the refs. Keeps his team pretty composed.
The son of former Maryland AA John Lucas.
Quote from: wadesworld on March 22, 2026, 11:25:41 AMSpero and Spenarkle are a great team.
Spero is my favorite announcer not named named Kevin Harlen right now
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 22, 2026, 11:38:16 AMYes. I've always liked Spanarkel.
Spanarkel was a terrific guard for Duke back in the 70s. Saw him play in the Final Four in St. Louis in 1978 when Duke lost in the natty to Kentucky and Jack Givens.
The thing I remember about Spanarkel was when he called the Marquette / Davidson game and said Marquette didn't need to shoot the three, only to have Vander and Jamil hit three straight to fuel that comeback.
Nigel will probably be making more next year than Utah State's entire roster made this year.
https://x.com/i/status/2035770733192724568
Impressive for Purdue to get the win with Smith being pretty bad today.
The B18 continues to roll. :(
Except for the Weasels. :)
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 22, 2026, 01:25:22 PMThe B18 continues to roll. :(
Except for the Weasels. :)
Big Ten is the best conference in the nation and it's not close.
Quote from: Uncle Rico on March 22, 2026, 01:38:46 PMBig Ten is the best conference in the nation and it's not close.
B12??? They've had serious injuries with Toppin now Jefferson.
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 22, 2026, 01:52:16 PMB12??? They've had serious injuries with Toppin now Jefferson.
Big Ten is light years ahead of the Big XII. It's not close.
Iowa State is playing like a team who thinks their coach is off to Chapel Hill.
Edit: And moments later, they're on a 9-0 run.
Quote from: Pakuni on March 22, 2026, 02:11:16 PMIowa State is playing like a team who thinks their coach is off to Chapel Hill.
Edit: And moments later, they're on a 9-0 run.
Takes some time to learn how to play without your best player
Quote from: Uncle Rico on March 22, 2026, 01:56:49 PMBig Ten is light years ahead of the Big XII. It's not close.
Whoakay.
:(
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 22, 2026, 02:50:12 PMWhoakay.
:(
Better TV contracts plus owning their own network, deeper pocketed alum, stronger facilities and incredible academics. Only a matter of time before them and the SEC leave the NCAA and use leagues like the Big XII as a feeder league.
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on March 22, 2026, 01:15:23 PMNigel will probably be making more next year than Utah State's entire roster made this year.
https://x.com/i/status/2035770733192724568
That is absolutely not what was said.
That tweet = #FakeNews #Lies
Quote from: Jay Bee on March 22, 2026, 03:19:16 PMThat is absolutely not what was said.
That tweet = #FakeNews #Lies
Did you even watch it? Calhoun said "we went from $880,000 to about $2.4 million."
I understand ISU has a solid defense, but so many of Kentucky's turnovers are just nuts.
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on March 22, 2026, 03:23:56 PMDid you even watch it? Calhoun said "we went from $880,000 to about $2.4 million."
Yes. He wasn't talking about NIL. Watch it again and report back (apologize).
Quote from: The Sultan on March 22, 2026, 03:33:39 PMI understand ISU has a solid defense, but so many of Kentucky's turnovers are just nuts.
ISU woke up in the 2H. And didn't have their best player.
Quote from: Jay Bee on March 22, 2026, 03:43:44 PMYes. He wasn't talking about NIL. Watch it again and report back (apologize).
"We went from $880,000 last year, probably the lowest budgeted program in the country to get an at large bid, to this year to $2.4 (million)."
Talking specifically about the donor base used to fund the roster. I fully expect Nigel to be getting more than that here. So what are you saying? That after revenue sharing, Utah State probably has more than $2.4m? Because that I would probably agree with.
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on March 22, 2026, 03:53:19 PM"We went from $880,000 last year, probably the lowest budgeted program in the country to get an at large bid, to this year to $2.4 (million)."
Talking specifically about the donor base used to fund the roster. I fully expect Nigel to be getting more than that here. So what are you saying? That after revenue sharing, Utah State probably has more than $2.4m? Because that I would probably agree with.
You're almost there. He was simply talking about donations received. In the first year referenced, direct payments weren't even a thing. That is, he was talking about donations received, not what players received.
Quote from: Jay Bee on March 22, 2026, 04:06:44 PMYou're almost there. He was simply talking about donations received. In the first year referenced, direct payments weren't even a thing. That is, he was talking about donations received, not what players received.
But the direct payments are allowed now. So just to clarify, you're assuming Utah State players received more than $2.4m this year in total, correct? Because I probably agree with that.
But I still think Nigel will get more than the $2.4m they raised this year at Utah State. He's a high value player.
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on March 22, 2026, 04:12:05 PMSo just to clarify, you're assuming Utah State players received more than $2.4m this year in total, correct?
No. I'm saying the coach did not say they paid out $2.4M this year and $8xxk the year prior. He did not.
Quote from: Jay Bee on March 22, 2026, 04:16:35 PMNo. I'm saying the coach did not say they paid out $2.4M this year and $8xxk the year prior. He did not.
I would think it's pretty safe to assume that what they raise was distributed to the current roster, and that's why these outlets are phrasing it that way.
If that's not the case, then let me clarify that... I would imagine that Nigel is making more than the entirety of what Calhoun said was raised by the Utah State donor base for the program this year.
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on March 22, 2026, 04:24:43 PMI would think it's pretty safe to assume that what they raise was distributed to the current roster, and that's why these outlets are phrasing it that way.
If that's not the case, then let me clarify that... I would imagine that Nigel is making more than the entirety of what Calhoun said was raised by the Utah State donor base for the program this year.
I don't think it's safe to assume that at all - the amounts are more likely wildly different.
Fine on your second paragraph (not that I agree, but it's fine for you to imagine that).
The "outlets" are describing it as NIL because they are stupid idiots.
Quote from: Jay Bee on March 22, 2026, 04:31:39 PMI don't think it's safe to assume that at all - the amounts are more likely wildly different.
Fine on your second paragraph (not that I agree, but it's fine for you to imagine that).
The "outlets" are describing it as NIL because they are stupid idiots.
Fair enough lol
Shocking that SJU is playing a disgusting second round game. And as I type this, Peterson probably just going to quit playing the rest of the season.
That was the worst half of this tournament. Gross basketball.
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on March 22, 2026, 05:22:08 PMThat was the worst half of this tournament. Gross basketball.
.
Agreed.
Yikes.
Would you really take Peterson top 3?
Will St.J choke this game away?
Wow.
(https://media4.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTA1NzQyMTNjZnpxejZvNGlmZ3pvcDk0bW12eWNuODN0cnlrdXFzbngyZHUweGluZSZlcD12MV9naWZzX2dpZklkJmN0PWc/cOW4la6xHLyQrKOpy2/200.gif)
Not sure about that foul call.
Okay.
Kansas just let him waltz down the lane...
Quote from: The Sultan on March 22, 2026, 06:39:18 PMKansas just let him waltz down the lane...
That's what I was thinking.
St. Johns and Kansas with one of the worst games ever played by 2 teams? So bad it made it unbelievably entertaining.
St. Johns with 9 transfers advances. RGV baby!
You really thought st John's player terrible? St John's defense was pretty elite I thought...
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 21, 2026, 11:12:54 PMMaybe, but Oklahoma Ctty is like 450 miles from Lincoln.
Nebraska fans are like Iowa fans. They have no professional teams to root for so they travel like crazy to follow the big state school. Especially when it's the first time in forever for them to play NCAA games that they have a chance to win.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 22, 2026, 06:39:18 PMKansas just let him waltz down the lane...
Maybe instead of using the four free fouls to make them nurse the ball down court they should have played aggressive defense, trying to steal the ball or be in a position to bump off someone driving to the basket before they could get a shot off.
I'm guessing St. Johns will be kicking themselves in the offseason about the choices they brought in at guard around Zuby.
A lot to like about their front court but their guards are just so terrible offensively.
Congrats to BE SJU for making Sweet Sixteen and beating a B12 team. Ugly to say the least, but a win is a win. 26 years a long time for that.
At 6 minute mark Pitino subbed out Darling up 8, then SJU offense went abit stagnant. After Pitino called last timeout with two minutes left and Kansas tied, he subbed Darling back in. Much better, with Hopkins making that three and then the game winning Darling layup.
Quote from: wisblue on March 22, 2026, 06:47:27 PMNebraska fans are like Iowa fans. They have no professional teams to root for so they travel like crazy to follow the big state school. Especially when it's the first time in forever for them to play NCAA games that they have a chance to win.
Lincoln to OKC is perhaps the easiest 450 mile drive in the country. No major cities to drive through, very little traffic and the speed limits are 75 or 80.
Quote from: Badgerhater on March 22, 2026, 07:21:26 PMLincoln to OKC is perhaps the easiest 450 mile drive in the country. No major cities to drive through, very little traffic and the speed limits are 75 or 80.
It's still 6 hours vs an hour 15.
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on March 22, 2026, 06:51:30 PMI'm guessing St. Johns will be kicking themselves in the offseason about the choices they brought in at guard around Zuby.
A lot to like about their front court but their guards are just so terrible offensively.
What are you talking about? They won back to back BE regular season and Tourney titles and are in the S16 for the first time since 1999. And have a definite chance to beat Duke and advance further. They are not going to be kicking themselves.
Quote from: wadesworld on March 22, 2026, 07:42:57 PMThey won back to back BE regular season and Tourney titles and are in the S16 for the first time since 1999. They are not going to be kicking themselves.
The fans probably won't, but Pitino will.
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on March 22, 2026, 07:43:55 PMThe fans probably won't, but Pitino will.
Why? They're in the Sweet 16 and are probably better than Duke with Duke's injury. They could easily make a Final Four.
Quote from: wadesworld on March 22, 2026, 07:45:37 PMWhy? They're in the Sweet 16 and are probably better than Duke with Duke's injury. They could easily make a Final Four.
Agreed but Zuby is a National Championship level advantage at center.
https://x.com/i/status/2035860587004014624
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on March 22, 2026, 07:50:49 PMAgreed but Zuby is a National Championship level advantage at center.
I'm not sure what that means. So is Aday Mara. So is Patrick Ngongba. So is Motiejus Krivas. So is JoJo Tuggler. So is Alex Condon. So is Tarris Reed.
I'm shocked Iowa can win this game.
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 22, 2026, 08:13:41 PMI'm shocked Iowa can win this game.
Conference play in the Big Ten is harder than any team they'll play in the tournament. League is about to have nearly half the Sweet 16. They own college football and are about to own hoops, too.
The scheduling of games is a joke. Two stand alone games during the afternoon, three going at 9pm, the last game tipping around 10 tonight. Come on, CBS and NCAA.
Quote from: wadesworld on March 22, 2026, 08:06:20 PMI'm not sure what that means. So is Aday Mara. So is Patrick Ngongba. So is Motiejus Krivas. So is JoJo Tuggler. So is Alex Condon. So is Tarris Reed.
Well sure, plenty of great players. Every team that comes up short has something they'd like to have done differently.
That was a terrible call against Iowa.
Quote from: Billy Hoyle on March 22, 2026, 08:17:03 PMThe scheduling of games is a joke. Two stand alone games during the afternoon, three going at 9pm, the last game tipping around 10 tonight. Come on, CBS and NCAA.
Totally agree.
Two gargantuan front end misses from the FT line for Iowa.
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 22, 2026, 08:20:23 PMTwo gargantuan front end misses from the FT line for Iowa.
FTs no matta
What is the argument for why a coach doesn't get a 3rd challenge if they get their first 2 correct?
Not their fault officials get so much wrong.
Quote from: Billy Hoyle on March 22, 2026, 08:17:03 PMThe scheduling of games is a joke. Two stand alone games during the afternoon, three going at 9pm, the last game tipping around 10 tonight. Come on, CBS and NCAA.
There was a day not too long ago where the Sunday games wrapped up by 6 because work, travel, family, 60 Minutes was on, players had class on Monday......LOL
Stirtz is 0-9 from 3. Will he go for a triple to win it?
Omg!
4.5? More like 4.3.
Such trash Florida gets a free timeout to change the clock.
What awful defense to let Stirtz get a head of steam towards their basket and a plus player situation.
Lee passing the ball with no time is on brand.
That's a 🦣 upset!
WOW.
The Big Ten runs college basketball.
Fran McCaffery must be bitter. :)
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 22, 2026, 08:36:29 PMSuggestions?
As long as there is NIL and TV contracts, it's game over for the rest of the sport. This is the new norm.
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 22, 2026, 07:42:03 PMIt's still 6 hours vs an hour 15.
It's not like all Nebraska fans live in Lincoln.
Now, the Nebraska, Iowa, and Illinois fans can fight it out for tickets to the regional.
Maybe there will be an all Big Ten Final Four.
Quote from: wisblue on March 22, 2026, 08:38:22 PMIt's not like all Nebraska fans live in Lincoln.
Now, the Nebraska, Iowa, and Illinois fans can fight it out for tickets to the regional.
Maybe there will be an all Big Ten Final Four.
Iowa vs Iowa State
Ben McCollum is a magician. Beating Florida with that roster is pretty incredible.
Xavian Lee getting paid 7 figures to dribble out Florida's season
Quote from: The Sultan on March 22, 2026, 08:41:58 PMBen McCollum is a magician. Beating Florida with that roster is pretty incredible.
The guy who shot the game winner played for Robert Morris last year and was Horizon League POY.
That's a terrible call in the UCONN game. Why don't refs see the kick forward there?
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on March 22, 2026, 08:42:15 PMXavian Lee getting paid 7 figures to dribble out Florida's season
That was a set play with that pass inside. Not for Lee to shoot but pass, one second too late. Thought that was too long of a play within the timeframe. Oh well, good for Iowa, like SJU, no Sweet Sixteen in 27 years.
Two games in 45 minutes down to the buzzer. Big Ten tough, believe that is 6 teams out of 16.
Meanwhile, Utah St. only down 5 to Zona.
Kentucky's shot against Santa Clara reminded me in a way of Doc Rivers Shot against Notre Dame in that about the same spot on the floor and banked in.
Lappas is grating to listen to, reminds me of Pete Gillen with the staccato speech and grating accent - think they are from New Yawk?
Quote from: nyg on March 22, 2026, 08:54:11 PMThat was a set play with that pass inside. Not for Lee to shoot but pass, one second too late. Thought that was too long of a play within the timeframe. Oh well, good for Iowa, like SJU, no Sweet Sixteen in 27 years.
Two games in 45 minutes down to the buzzer. Big Ten tough, believe that is 6 teams out of 16.
But..... not Wisconsin.
Quote from: Uncle Rico on March 22, 2026, 08:35:07 PMThe Big Ten runs college basketball.
And yet, they haven't won a championship in 25 years. Soon to be 26.
Karaban hasn't played like this is a long time.
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 22, 2026, 09:57:35 PMKaraban hasn't played like this is a long time.
Have to make up for how bad Ball is playing
Solo Ball on the other hand has been BRUTAL.
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 22, 2026, 10:01:03 PMSolo Ball on the other hand has been BRUTAL.
He has been for quite a few games. Shot not dropping and he is just a poor defender anyway.
They need Ball to get bus crap together on both ends if they don't want to be blown out by Sparty. Fears won't have to flop or kick anyone in the nuts to out play him
After cheering for SJU and UConn tonight.
(https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcThixYhXDQ86Kg09ggyhShDiphq4sfmfng5Dw&s)
Quote from: Billy Hoyle on March 22, 2026, 10:13:01 PMThey need Ball to get bus crape together on both ends if they don't want to be blown out by Sparty. Fears won't have to flop or kick anyone in the nuts to out play him
Ya.....he has to do something out there besides bricking like crazy.
I hate to say it, but the B18 streak could be over.
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 22, 2026, 10:23:17 PMI hate to say it, but the B18 streak could be over.
If you throw enough schools at it, something will eventually stick. ;)
https://x.com/SECBarstool/status/2035895561212367342?s=20
Oops.
Nice day for the big east
Quote from: CountryRoads on March 22, 2026, 10:27:43 PMNice day for the big east
Yes. 66% of the big east yeahs who got in tourney are in the Sweet 16! lol. It is a good day, Just a shame they put SJU and UConn in the same bracket.
It's very unfortunate there really isn't anyone to root for. I suppose there's no reason to hate Iowa, Nebraska, or even Purdue.
As celebrated as Karaban has been, it's hard to believe that the 27 points scored tonight was a career high. All those games over 4 seasons, all those accolades about his shooting, and not one 30-pointer?
I mean, Nigel James had three 30-point games this season!
Also ... as good as Florida's frontcourt is and was, it was their backcourt, especially Walter Clayton, that made the Gators champions last season.
I never felt good about their guards this season.
Also ... super impressed with the way Iowa State won without Jefferson. Totally dominated the second half.
Too bad UCLA had to play similarly shorthanded. They hung around with UConn but just didn't have enough in the end.
Also ... Darling was horrendous, and Pitino had benched him for long stretches, until he made the winning bucket. Darling is the only player in NCAAT history to have his only points be the winning points. He's left-handed and very rarely shoots with his right.
Quote from: Daniel on March 22, 2026, 10:34:12 PMYes. 66% of the big east yeahs who got in tourney are in the Sweet 16! lol. It is a good day, Just a shame they put SJU and UConn in the same bracket.
The gap has widened. Time to giddyup, Shaka. Need talent like yesterday.
Yeah....The talent difference between our team and some of these teams is honestly.....Startling.....
Self may not be back.
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 23, 2026, 06:34:03 AMSelf may not be back.
Scott Drew to Kansas. You heard it here first.
Quote from: Uncle Rico on March 23, 2026, 07:04:06 AMScott Drew to Kansas. You heard it here first.
Do you know the family or something?
Quote from: The Sultan on March 23, 2026, 07:47:43 AMDo you know the family or something?
You'll see.
He has to pray with his family and ask Jesus for help (family + Jesus = Baylor megadonors)
Quote from: MU82 on March 23, 2026, 12:15:58 AMAs celebrated as Karaban has been, it's hard to believe that the 27 points scored tonight was a career high. All those games over 4 seasons, all those accolades about his shooting, and not one 30-pointer?
I mean, Nigel James had three 30-point games this season!
I suspect it might have something to do with the relative surrounding cast each player had.
Programs with 4 straight Sweet 16's:
Alabama
Houston
Tennessee
It's obvious watching these games the physicality majority these bigs bring to the table. Obvious need a center, but the wings are just as important. Both Phillips and Owens are finesse wings with not enough muscle. Is ALex the answer, but he is a freshman or another wing? What do you think?
Quote from: Uncle Rico on March 23, 2026, 07:04:06 AMScott Drew to Kansas. You heard it here first.
Kentucky is going to do whatever it takes to keep him.
Quote from: The Equalizer on March 23, 2026, 08:58:51 AMI suspect it might have something to do with the relative surrounding cast each player had.
On the one hand, yes, playing with talented teammates has meant more pie to divvy up. But on the other hand, it also meant his team included talented playmakers who could get him the ball in scoring positions and great rebounders who could get him extra shot attempts.
I wouldn't have expected him to average even 20 ppg. I was just surprised to hear that 27 was his career high - that not even one time in all those games he played, did he have such a hot hand that his teammates fed him for a 28-point outing.
Playing for the same UConn team, Reed just had a 31-point game; last season, McNeeley had a 38-point game; in 2023-24, Newton had a 31-point game and Clingan a 29-pointer. So it's not as if it was an impossible feat, especially for one of the most celebrated players in the program's history.
Quote from: MU82 on March 23, 2026, 12:15:58 AMAs celebrated as Karaban has been, it's hard to believe that the 27 points scored tonight was a career high. All those games over 4 seasons, all those accolades about his shooting, and not one 30-pointer?
It would be kind of fitting for Karaban to be the rainmaker if UCONN goes on another run. Cause what an odd career so far. Super dangerous and promising as a freshman, but like Clingan, they didn't need to do a ton cause Newton, Sanogo, and Hawkins were killers. Still talked about as a potential first round pick already. Has a great sophomore year with Spencer, Newton, and Clingan. Sniper for 3 again, figured he'd leave for the draft. Ends up coming back for some reason. Struggles his redcrap Junior as the presumptive first option. Worst shooting splits of his career. Looked like a different player in a bad way. Still second team All-BE but you figured he'd be in the running for BE POY. Had a good bounce back year this year, but was SUPER inconsistent, especially late in the year. Was bad in the BE tourney. Bad in the Marquette loss, TERRIBLE in the loss to Creighton and their near miss at home against Gtown. But he's been fantastic so far in the NCAA. Another good game or two and he's a first round pick chatter again.
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 22, 2026, 10:35:47 PMIt's very unfortunate there really isn't anyone to root for. I suppose there's no reason to hate Iowa, Nebraska, or even Purdue.
Agreed on Iowa and Nebraska. Iowa was unlikable cause of Purple Faced Fran, but I respect McCollum (even though he's proven me wrong about how successful I thought he'd be, at least early on as a D1 coach). I can't stand Nebraska football fans, but as someone who enjoyed watching Hoiberg's ISU teams, its been cool to see him not only rebuild his own career after the debacle in Chicago, but steadily build that Nebraska program, especially after early returns were not good at all.
But I will never root for Purdue, short of against Wisconsin, ND, or maybe Dayton, cause I can't stand Painter's late game offensive philosophy. Yesterday was a prime example...one made FG in the final 6 min, not because Miami locked in defensively, but because Painter/PU is obsessive about shortening the game and using every second of clock after the under 8 TO, but especially under 5 min. First 12 min of the second half, average possession was 15 seconds, they scored 28 points. Last 6 min of the game (until Miamia started fouling), average possession balloons to 25 seconds and they scored that single basket. The only possession under 23 seconds was cause Cluff got fouled posting up.
And its not just cause of the NCAA stakes, anyone who has watched Purdue in the regular season sees them do it all the time. I'm not second guessing his strategy, it obviously works. Painter is an incredible coach and his results don't lie. Its just incredibly dull to watch and second half of Purdue games, that are beyond a possession or two, absolutely stink. Sometimes teams fight back and it gets more interesting like Miami did. But usually its just a drag of missed shots and boring possessions crawling to the final buzzer. Purdue fans likely don't care, but as an unaffiliated neutral fan, hard pass.
Barnes and Tennessee do it too. Where it feels like they hit a certain total that they can defend and focus fully on defending that, if they don't score again the rest of the game that's fine, as long as they aren't giving up points. But the difference is Tennessee is usually offensively challenged and it feels like an extension of an overall game plan. Whereas Purdue has a free flowing and powerful offense that just gets shut off. The Celtics actually do something similar in the 4th quarter in the NBA, but given the pace of the NBA, it ends up looking more just like standing around disinterested then chucking slop. That's also why they stink as a neutral ball fan.
Quote from: BCHoopster on March 23, 2026, 10:12:04 AMIt's obvious watching these games the physicality majority these bigs bring to the table. Obvious need a center, but the wings are just as important. Both Phillips and Owens are finesse wings with not enough muscle. Is ALex the answer, but he is a freshman or another wing? What do you think?
Well is Sheek is going to be that guy, no?
Quote from: JWags85 on March 23, 2026, 04:49:53 PMIt would be kind of fitting for Karaban to be the rainmaker if UCONN goes on another run. Cause what an odd career so far. Super dangerous and promising as a freshman, but like Clingan, they didn't need to do a ton cause Newton, Sanogo, and Hawkins were killers. Still talked about as a potential first round pick already. Has a great sophomore year with Spencer, Newton, and Clingan. Sniper for 3 again, figured he'd leave for the draft. Ends up coming back for some reason. Struggles his redcrap Junior as the presumptive first option. Worst shooting splits of his career. Looked like a different player in a bad way. Still second team All-BE but you figured he'd be in the running for BE POY. Had a good bounce back year this year, but was SUPER inconsistent, especially late in the year. Was bad in the BE tourney. Bad in the Marquette loss, TERRIBLE in the loss to Creighton and their near miss at home against Gtown. But he's been fantastic so far in the NCAA. Another good game or two and he's a first round pick chatter again.
Agreed on Iowa and Nebraska. Iowa was unlikable cause of Purple Faced Fran, but I respect McCollum (even though he's proven me wrong about how successful I thought he'd be, at least early on as a D1 coach). I can't stand Nebraska football fans, but as someone who enjoyed watching Hoiberg's ISU teams, its been cool to see him not only rebuild his own career after the debacle in Chicago, but steadily build that Nebraska program, especially after early returns were not good at all.
But I will never root for Purdue, short of against Wisconsin, ND, or maybe Dayton, cause I can't stand Painter's late game offensive philosophy. Yesterday was a prime example...one made FG in the final 6 min, not because Miami locked in defensively, but because Painter/PU is obsessive about shortening the game and using every second of clock after the under 8 TO, but especially under 5 min. First 12 min of the second half, average possession was 15 seconds, they scored 28 points. Last 6 min of the game (until Miamia started fouling), average possession balloons to 25 seconds and they scored that single basket. The only possession under 23 seconds was cause Cluff got fouled posting up.
And its not just cause of the NCAA stakes, anyone who has watched Purdue in the regular season sees them do it all the time. I'm not second guessing his strategy, it obviously works. Painter is an incredible coach and his results don't lie. Its just incredibly dull to watch and second half of Purdue games, that are beyond a possession or two, absolutely stink. Sometimes teams fight back and it gets more interesting like Miami did. But usually its just a drag of missed shots and boring possessions crawling to the final buzzer. Purdue fans likely don't care, but as an unaffiliated neutral fan, hard pass.
Barnes and Tennessee do it too. Where it feels like they hit a certain total that they can defend and focus fully on defending that, if they don't score again the rest of the game that's fine, as long as they aren't giving up points. But the difference is Tennessee is usually offensively challenged and it feels like an extension of an overall game plan. Whereas Purdue has a free flowing and powerful offense that just gets shut off. The Celtics actually do something similar in the 4th quarter in the NBA, but given the pace of the NBA, it ends up looking more just like standing around disinterested then chucking slop. That's also why they stink as a neutral ball fan.
You may force me to change my mind with Purdue. I just liked the things Painter said about MU 2 years ago. I also am remembering my experience with Purdue fans at the United Center in the rd of 32 in 2011. That was against Shaka's VCU squad that absolutely torched them because of 5'8 Joey Rodriguez. :) Needlesss to say, Purdue fans there did not impress me JWags. Lots of entitlement emanating from their expressions and mouths.
Quote from: JWags85 on March 23, 2026, 04:49:53 PMIt would be kind of fitting for Karaban to be the rainmaker if UCONN goes on another run. Cause what an odd career so far. Super dangerous and promising as a freshman, but like Clingan, they didn't need to do a ton cause Newton, Sanogo, and Hawkins were killers. Still talked about as a potential first round pick already. Has a great sophomore year with Spencer, Newton, and Clingan. Sniper for 3 again, figured he'd leave for the draft. Ends up coming back for some reason. Struggles his redcrap Junior as the presumptive first option. Worst shooting splits of his career. Looked like a different player in a bad way. Still second team All-BE but you figured he'd be in the running for BE POY. Had a good bounce back year this year, but was SUPER inconsistent, especially late in the year. Was bad in the BE tourney. Bad in the Marquette loss, TERRIBLE in the loss to Creighton and their near miss at home against Gtown. But he's been fantastic so far in the NCAA. Another good game or two and he's a first round pick chatter again.
Agreed on Iowa and Nebraska. Iowa was unlikable cause of Purple Faced Fran, but I respect McCollum (even though he's proven me wrong about how successful I thought he'd be, at least early on as a D1 coach). I can't stand Nebraska football fans, but as someone who enjoyed watching Hoiberg's ISU teams, its been cool to see him not only rebuild his own career after the debacle in Chicago, but steadily build that Nebraska program, especially after early returns were not good at all.
But I will never root for Purdue, short of against Wisconsin, ND, or maybe Dayton, cause I can't stand Painter's late game offensive philosophy. Yesterday was a prime example...one made FG in the final 6 min, not because Miami locked in defensively, but because Painter/PU is obsessive about shortening the game and using every second of clock after the under 8 TO, but especially under 5 min. First 12 min of the second half, average possession was 15 seconds, they scored 28 points. Last 6 min of the game (until Miamia started fouling), average possession balloons to 25 seconds and they scored that single basket. The only possession under 23 seconds was cause Cluff got fouled posting up.
And its not just cause of the NCAA stakes, anyone who has watched Purdue in the regular season sees them do it all the time. I'm not second guessing his strategy, it obviously works. Painter is an incredible coach and his results don't lie. Its just incredibly dull to watch and second half of Purdue games, that are beyond a possession or two, absolutely stink. Sometimes teams fight back and it gets more interesting like Miami did. But usually its just a drag of missed shots and boring possessions crawling to the final buzzer. Purdue fans likely don't care, but as an unaffiliated neutral fan, hard pass.
Barnes and Tennessee do it too. Where it feels like they hit a certain total that they can defend and focus fully on defending that, if they don't score again the rest of the game that's fine, as long as they aren't giving up points. But the difference is Tennessee is usually offensively challenged and it feels like an extension of an overall game plan. Whereas Purdue has a free flowing and powerful offense that just gets shut off. The Celtics actually do something similar in the 4th quarter in the NBA, but given the pace of the NBA, it ends up looking more just like standing around disinterested then chucking slop. That's also why they stink as a neutral ball fan.
Maybe that is why Mcdermott is retiring. Local competition for recruits may be challenging. Only 51 miles apart.
Quote from: muwarrior69 on March 23, 2026, 06:32:42 PMWell is Sheek is going to be that guy, no?
In a year or two, sure, maybe. This year I'm really hoping he's the 12-15 mpg second big behind a legit stud.
Quote from: brewcity77 on March 23, 2026, 06:53:26 PMIn a year or two, sure, maybe. This year I'm really hoping he's the 12-15 mpg second big behind a legit stud.
Thanks Brew. I am just tired of all the overly optimistic claims about the team next season when half the guys have not even played one D1 college game. NJ is the only legit stud and I can envision him giving us a buzzer beating layup in the tournament like Dylan did for the Johnnies last night, but we are going to need a lot more legit studs to play around him. Hope the off season will give us a better picture of where the program is headed.
Quote from: muwarrior69 on March 23, 2026, 07:35:09 PMThanks Brew. I am just tired of all the overly optimistic claims about the team next season when half the guys have not even played one D1 college game. NJ is the only legit stud and I can envision him giving us a buzzer beating layup in the tournament like Dylan did for the Johnnies last night, but we are going to need a lot more legit studs to play around him. Hope the off season will give us a better picture of where the program is headed.
🙄
Quote from: muwarrior69 on March 23, 2026, 06:41:44 PMMaybe that is why Mcdermott is retiring. Local competition for recruits may be challenging. Only 51 miles apart.
This is sarcastic right? Since he's been at Nebraska, Hoiberg has signed 1 HS player from Nebraska, Frager in the 2024 class, the top recruit in Nebraska, but who was ranked like 190. Creighton barely recruited him cause he would have been probably the 4th best recruit they had in that class.
In the last 5 years, Nebraska has produced 2 top 100 guys, both left the state. Sallis went to Gonzaga, then transferred to Wake. Traudt went to UVA, then transferred back to Creighton. There had only been 1 other top 150 guy, that bum Hepburn from Wisconsin. Otherwise, 2 borderline top 200 guys who went to Creighton and then transferred down levels. The last 2 years has been devoid of any reasonably high level HS players coming out of Nebraska.
If sarcastic, well played. Otherwise, I can assure you that a losing competition for local talent wasn't on the top 20 reasons for McDermott retiring, maybe not even in the top 50.
Quote from: muwarrior69 on March 23, 2026, 07:35:09 PMThanks Brew. I am just tired of all the overly optimistic claims about the team next season when half the guys have not even played one D1 college game.
Very few Scoopers are "overly optimistic," eeyore69. Some of us are cautiously optimistic, and frame our optimism around statements such as, "If Shaka uses the portal well ... "
Nobody here is predicting a return to the Final Four. Even optimistic types like me are just thinking a return to the NCAA tournament is possible if things go right this offseason. Meanwhile, it seems that as many (if not more) Scoopers are "overly pessimistic" - predicting that Shaka will fail this offseason and saying he should be on the hot seat.
Quote from: MU82 on March 24, 2026, 10:55:58 AMVery few Scoopers are "overly optimistic," eeyore69. Some of us are cautiously optimistic, and frame our optimism around statements such as, "If Shaka uses the portal well ... "
Nobody here is predicting a return to the Final Four. Even optimistic types like me are just thinking a return to the NCAA tournament is possible if things go right this offseason. Meanwhile, it seems that as many (if not more) Scoopers are "overly pessimistic" - predicting that Shaka will fail this offseason and saying he should be on the hot seat.
The thing with pessimists is that if they're wrong and things turn out well they're not disappointed. If they're right then everyone is disappointed.
Quote from: JWags85 on March 23, 2026, 09:46:04 PMThis is sarcastic right? Since he's been at Nebraska, Hoiberg has signed 1 HS player from Nebraska, Frager in the 2024 class, the top recruit in Nebraska, but who was ranked like 190. Creighton barely recruited him cause he would have been probably the 4th best recruit they had in that class.
In the last 5 years, Nebraska has produced 2 top 100 guys, both left the state. Sallis went to Gonzaga, then transferred to Wake. Traudt went to UVA, then transferred back to Creighton. There had only been 1 other top 150 guy, that bum Hepburn from Wisconsin. Otherwise, 2 borderline top 200 guys who went to Creighton and then transferred down levels. The last 2 years has been devoid of any reasonably high level HS players coming out of Nebraska.
If sarcastic, well played. Otherwise, I can assure you that a losing competition for local talent wasn't on the top 20 reasons for McDermott retiring, maybe not even in the top 50.
You misunderstood. I meant they now have a local competitor for basketball talent, not in-state basketball talent.
Quote from: JWags85 on March 23, 2026, 09:46:04 PMThis is sarcastic right? Since he's been at Nebraska, Hoiberg has signed 1 HS player from Nebraska, Frager in the 2024 class, the top recruit in Nebraska, but who was ranked like 190. Creighton barely recruited him cause he would have been probably the 4th best recruit they had in that class.
In the last 5 years, Nebraska has produced 2 top 100 guys, both left the state. Sallis went to Gonzaga, then transferred to Wake. Traudt went to UVA, then transferred back to Creighton. There had only been 1 other top 150 guy, that bum Hepburn from Wisconsin. Otherwise, 2 borderline top 200 guys who went to Creighton and then transferred down levels. The last 2 years has been devoid of any reasonably high level HS players coming out of Nebraska.
If sarcastic, well played. Otherwise, I can assure you that a losing competition for local talent wasn't on the top 20 reasons for McDermott retiring, maybe not even in the top 50.
after Kerry Trotter, Nebraska HS talent just doesn't measure up.
Quote from: muwarrior69 on March 24, 2026, 11:12:36 AMThe thing with pessimists is that if they're wrong and things turn out well they're not disappointed. If they're right then everyone is disappointed.
"My kids are gonna be drug addicts who are a burden to society. Pessimistic? Sure. But just think how happy I'll be if I'm wrong."
Yup. Great way to go through life.
Quote from: MU82 on March 24, 2026, 12:58:12 PM"My kids are gonna be drug addicts who are a burden to society. Pessimistic? Sure. But just think how happy I'll be if I'm wrong."
Yup. Great way to go through life.
I thought we were talking about the Marquette Basketball Program, not life.
Quote from: muwarrior69 on March 24, 2026, 02:40:05 PMI thought we were talking about the Marquette Basketball Program, not life.
The Marquette basketball program is a big part of my life. Maybe it doesn't really matter that much to you, eeyore69 ... though given the amount you b!tch about it, that seems to be at odds with reality.
Quote from: muwarrior69 on March 24, 2026, 02:40:05 PMI thought we were talking about the Marquette Basketball Program, not life.
Your "talking about the Marquette Basketball Program" consists of non-stop bitching, moaning, complaining, scolding, and lecturing. Your comments following the huge upset of UCONN are Exhibit A.
No one else here posted that it was a case of a highly ranked road team having a bad game (really? Wow, I never thought about that!), as if we needed your scolding us for celebrating. And no one else snootily stated that if Marquette holds Karaban to two points in the next MU/UCONN game,
THEN you will "concede" that the team has improved. :o ?-( ::) ;D ;D ;D
Quote from: Scoop Snoop on March 24, 2026, 03:12:57 PMYour "talking about the Marquette Basketball Program" consists of non-stop bitching, moaning, complaining, scolding, and lecturing. Your comments following the huge upset of UCONN are Exhibit A. No one else here posted that it was a case of a highly ranked road team having a bad game (really? Wow, I never thought about that!), as if we needed your scolding us for celebrating. And no one else snootily stated that if Marquette holds Karaban to two points in the next MU/UCONN game, THEN you will "concede" that the team has improved. :o ?-( ::) ;D ;D ;D
Glad you got that off your chest. Fell better now.
Quote from: muwarrior69 on March 24, 2026, 04:53:38 PMGlad you got that off your chest. Fell better now.
Feel.
Fell is what you have done-as in faceplant- every time you tried to sound like you have something intelligent to say.
Good news out of Iowa State - Joshua Jefferson is "progressing," and he has realistic hope that his ankle will be sound enough for Friday's game vs. Tennessee.
I've been very impressed with ISU so far. Jefferson is an outstanding player, yet his absence didn't prevent ISU from wiping the floor with Kentucky.
Quote from: MU82 on March 24, 2026, 07:04:22 PMGood news out of Iowa State - Joshua Jefferson is "progressing," and he has realistic hope that his ankle will be sound enough for Friday's game vs. Tennessee.
I've been very impressed with ISU so far. Jefferson is an outstanding player, yet his absence didn't prevent ISU from wiping the floor with Kentucky.
They really need that guy. Tennessee is big.
NCAA Tournament viewership records despite all those people who said they will no longer watch college sports now that players get paid.
Quote from: wadesworld on March 26, 2026, 10:24:36 AMNCAA Tournament viewership records despite all those people who said they will no longer watch college sports now that players get paid.
All the same people that turned off the Super Bowl halftime show. Sad!
Quote from: wadesworld on March 26, 2026, 10:24:36 AMNCAA Tournament viewership records despite all those people who said they will no longer watch college sports now that players get paid.
Feels like they should continue to get good ratings with how chalky things have been. Should be some good late round matchups.
Of the 8 S16 games, I don't see a bad one on paper. I'm sure it won't end up that way, but they look like 8 compelling games.
In a weird coincidence, UConn is also playing Michigan St. in the NCAA hockey tournament.
Oops!
Quote from: wadesworld on March 26, 2026, 10:24:36 AMNCAA Tournament viewership records despite all those people who said they will no longer watch college sports now that players get paid.
With St John's and UCONN in the largest metro market and all the other P4 teams with their large alumni bases why is that surprising?
Quote from: muwarrior69 on March 26, 2026, 06:11:21 PMWith St John's and UCONN in the largest metro market and all the other P4 teams with their large alumni bases why is that surprising?
bro you think ratings are simply driven by the alumni bases of the schools participating? c'mon
Texas doesn't seem to resemble their team during the regular season.
Quote from: muwarrior69 on March 26, 2026, 06:11:21 PMWith St John's and UCONN in the largest metro market and all the other P4 teams with their large alumni bases why is that surprising?
St. John's has the smallest fanbase remaining in the S16 by a significant margin.
The refs in the Purdue/Tex game are taking way too long to make this call.
Greg Gumbel is missed.
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 26, 2026, 07:10:19 PMGreg Gumbel is missed.
He was pretty good at everything he did.
Quote from: Uncle Rico on March 26, 2026, 07:17:46 PMHe was pretty good at everything he did.
Good point. He's one of the few broadcasters and studio guys that I can't recall ever bothering me. :)
That was a terrible call on the big Texas center.
Are we going to go to the monitor every whistle in this Texas vs. Purdue game?
Quote from: wadesworld on March 26, 2026, 07:32:51 PMAre we going to go to the monitor every whistle in this Texas vs. Purdue game?
It's been brutal. Well said.
As far as UCONN on St.J tomorrow, what are your thoughts?
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 26, 2026, 07:38:16 PMAs far as UCONN on St.J tomorrow, what are your thoughts?
I personally think UConn should get off of St. John's, so the Red Storm can have a fair chance versus Duke.
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 26, 2026, 07:38:16 PMAs far as UCONN on St.J tomorrow, what are your thoughts?
Pretty simple. Both have to win for UConn-StJ to be a thing.
Quote from: Oldgym on March 26, 2026, 07:42:22 PMPretty simple. Both have to win for UConn-StJ to be a thing.
Quote from: Oldgym on March 26, 2026, 07:42:22 PMPretty simple. Both have to win for UConn-StJ to be a thing.
I hope I'm wrong but I don't have a great feeling either team will advance.
Purdue bigs sure do hook a lot
Quote from: 21Jumpstreet on March 26, 2026, 07:45:30 PMPurdue bigs sure do hook a lot
It's amazing they don't get called for it. TKR is a bowling ball on offense.
Quote from: 21Jumpstreet on March 26, 2026, 07:45:30 PMPurdue bigs sure do hook a lot
Excellent point Jump!!! It seems obvious too.
Two pretty damn good games. Excuse my ignorance but has Mark on Texas been on the national radar? The guy has been incredible.
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 26, 2026, 07:54:38 PMTwo pretty damn good games. Excuse my ignorance but has Mark on Texas been on the national radar? The guy has been incredible.
Well, he's been in college since 2021
Quote from: Uncle Rico on March 26, 2026, 07:56:23 PMWell, he's been in college since 2021
There need to cap the age limit.
3 total fouls called in the 2H of Neb/Iowa game with about 3:30 left.
I hope both these games have a lot of monitor reviews to close out
Quote from: Uncle Rico on March 26, 2026, 08:20:19 PMI hope both these games have a lot of monitor reviews to close out
It's been problematic for sure.
Iowa going to luck into Ben McCollum for 20 years and win a lot of basketball games
Stirtz btw had zero turnovers tonight, and had zero in their last game. So while he hasn't shot great, he's been pretty damn impressive. The state of Iowa is on fire. Two damn good coaches.
Was that a foul on Cluff?
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 26, 2026, 08:27:30 PMStirtz btw had zero turnovers tonight, and had zero in their last game. So while he hasn't shot great, he's been pretty damn impressive. The state of Iowa is on fire. Two damn good coaches.
Bonus for some, UW-Madison fans probably hate Iowa basketball more than any other Big 18 school. And they've switched bodies!
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 26, 2026, 08:30:09 PMWas that a foul on Cluff?
It was because Smith pushed him into swain
TKR pushed Swain there.
Quote from: Uncle Rico on March 26, 2026, 08:31:17 PMBonus for some, UW-Madison fans probably hate Iowa basketball more than any other Big 18 school. And they've switched bodies!
Maybe it's me but zero turnovers, in back to back NCAA tourney games, as the primary player and ball handler, is freaking incredible.
Nebraska basketball channeling Nebraska football and finding a way to lose
Barkley is right about not having the big Lihuanian center in there at the end. That can't happen.
Nebraska only had 4 players on the court coming out of the timeout when Iowa threw it over the top for the and one to make it a 6 point game inside a minute.
Quote from: jfp61 on March 26, 2026, 08:33:05 PMIt was because Smith pushed him into swain
.
Fair enough. That said the and one calls at the end of games have always bothered me. Because generally they don't call those early in games.
Quote from: wadesworld on March 26, 2026, 08:42:44 PMNebraska only had 4 players on the court coming out of the timeout when Iowa threw it over the top for the and one to make it a 6 point game inside a minute.
Yep. Finding new ways to give games away at the end is a proud Nebraska tradition.
Quote from: Uncle Rico on March 26, 2026, 08:34:30 PMHe's a goon
He is a goon, but that was a good box out IMO
Quote from: wadesworld on March 26, 2026, 08:42:44 PMNebraska only had 4 players on the court coming out of the timeout when Iowa threw it over the top for the and one to make it a 6 point game inside a minute.
Can you imagine scoop if Shaka did that? Hoiberg is a good coach.....and somehow they made a crucial blunder at the end of a huge game.........shocking but it happens.
https://x.com/nickbateman33/status/2037340330891124999?s=61
Quote from: wadesworld on March 26, 2026, 08:42:44 PMNebraska only had 4 players on the court coming out of the timeout when Iowa threw it over the top for the and one to make it a 6 point game inside a minute.
[/quote
Whoops. Wow. They also shot 28% in the 2H.
Obviously it always falls on the head coach....i always wonder how many times they just don want to blame the person who really messed up...........unless of course you are Mick Cronin.......he doesn't have that problem.
https://x.com/thefieldof68/status/2037353753335017719?s=61
Quote from: The Sultan on March 26, 2026, 06:26:51 PMSt. John's has the smallest fanbase remaining in the S16 by a significant margin.
What were the numbers on BE final? For a small fan base, as you say, Fox had terrific rating. NYC will tune in tomorrow.
Quote from: 79Warrior on March 26, 2026, 09:30:38 PMWhat were the numbers on BE final?
No idea. And I don't know why that matters. Way more people than the fanbases of these teams watch these games.
Was really looking forward to this Houston vs. Illinois game. It STIIIIIINKS.
Quote from: wadesworld on March 26, 2026, 09:37:37 PMWas really looking forward to this Houston vs. Illinois game. It STIIIIIINKS.
14 points in 16 mins isn't good.
Unless one of us is an 8th grader........we are all losers!
https://x.com/cbseveningnews/status/2037318183942537227?s=61
If Marquette only had 4 players on the court on an enormous late-game play, resulting in a breakaway dunk for the opponent - as happened to Hoiberg's Huskers - at least 50% of Scoop would be calling for Shaka to get fired immediately after the game.
Quote from: MU82 on March 26, 2026, 09:50:51 PMIf Marquette only had 4 players on the court on an enormous late-game play, resulting in a breakaway dunk for the opponent - as happened to Hoiberg's Huskers - at least 50% of Scoop would be calling for Shaka to get fired immediately after the game.
There's no way. People still talk about Wojo fouling in a tie game from 5 years ago...
I didn't know this.......tough to blame the refs........that's an interesting rule.......obviously don't have that in the NFL.
https://x.com/nickbahe/status/2037356138019074116?s=61
He stands corrected
https://x.com/nickbahe/status/2037363485181366473?s=61
Houston looks awful. Very surprising.
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 26, 2026, 10:24:06 PMHouston looks awful. Very surprising.
Houston may as well be down by 100.
Wild to see Houston wet the bed like this.
Quote from: Pakuni on March 26, 2026, 10:37:19 PMWild to see Houston wet the bed like this.
It's crazy. They've been really good all year. Is it the pressure of playing in Houston?
Illinois is stacked. They are huge at every position with depth for each position.
Amazing that this is the same level that we watched this season.
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on March 26, 2026, 10:44:24 PMIllinois is stacked. They are huge at every position with depth for each position.
Amazing that this is the same level that we watched this season.
What's the same level?
We could really use a Krivas. Or another good Lithuanian 5.
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 26, 2026, 10:45:57 PMWhat's the sane level?
It's crazy that whatever we watched from Marquette this year, is the same level of basketball as what this Illinois team has and is.
Grown men 10 deep into their rotation.
Quote from: MUDPT on March 26, 2026, 10:02:49 PMThere's no way. People still talk about Wojo fouling in a tie game from 5 years ago...
Standards are definitely higher here for Shaka. Probably as they should be.
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on March 26, 2026, 10:50:38 PMIt's crazy that whatever we watched from Marquette this year, is the same level of basketball as what this Illinois team has and is.
Grown men 10 deep into their rotation.
And they lost to Whisky. Twice.
Arizona is the only team capable of thwarting a Big 18 title. Was hoping to get to 26.
Hope Shaka noticed the impact transfers have on advancing teams like Iowa and illinois
Quote from: WellsstreetWanderer on March 26, 2026, 11:24:28 PMHope Shaka noticed the impact transfers have on advancing teams like Iowa and illinois
A 7 foot, 23 year old, European Freshman or two wouldn't hurt either.
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on March 26, 2026, 11:30:50 PMA 7 foot, 23 year old, European Freshman or two wouldn't hurt either.
I'd buy his jersey
You know, Lloyd better leave for UNC if he wants any chance to win.
Quote from: WellsstreetWanderer on March 26, 2026, 11:24:28 PMHope Shaka noticed the impact transfers have on advancing teams like Iowa and illinois
Iowa has a new coach - they only have like one returning player- not sure how they are a comparison. Illinois had two freshmen and three returning players start.
Do we really need to turn this into another "Shaka should recruit transfers" topic?
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 26, 2026, 10:43:30 PMIt's crazy. They've been really good all year. Is it the pressure of playing in Houston?
No it is Karma coming at Sampson for his past cheating.
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 26, 2026, 10:56:15 PMAnd they lost to Whisky. Twice.
We lost to Whisky also.
Quote from: Pakuni on March 26, 2026, 10:37:19 PMWild to see Houston wet the bed like this.
They run into the same issue old Wisconsin and Virginia ran into in single elimination tournaments, pace of play catches up to them. When baskets aren't falling and they fall behind, it's going to be hard for them to play catch up.
55 points in a 58 possession game. Woof. Just not a good enough shooting team this year and didn't get to the line to help create scoring opportunities. Thought this team was talented enough to make a deeper run than this but not surprised how they lost.
Quote from: willie warrior on March 27, 2026, 05:14:11 AMNo it is Karma coming at Sampson for his past cheating.
Wait until you hear about Illinois' history.
Quote from: Pakuni on March 27, 2026, 08:04:14 AMWait until you hear about Illinois' history.
Yep, plus I'm sure Al always played by the rules ;)
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 26, 2026, 10:43:30 PMIt's crazy. They've been really good all year. Is it the pressure of playing in Houston?
The unmeasurable metric: the failure to execute under pressure.
Quote from: AverageJoe on March 27, 2026, 01:07:34 AMIowa has a new coach - they only have like one returning player- not sure how they are a comparison. Illinois had two freshmen and three returning players start.
Stitz and Stojacovic. Andrej was a huge addition for the Illini
https://x.com/i/status/2037519541488455859
So predictable. I wonder if he plays tonight.
Quote from: Pakuni on March 27, 2026, 08:04:14 AMWait until you hear about Illinois' history.
What has Underwood done? What did Weber do?
Other than the Deon Thomas stuff (LaPhonso Ellis reportedly was offered $5k/year to sign during that time, too), Illinois hasn't been on probation since 1990.
Quote from: Billy Hoyle on March 27, 2026, 10:12:48 AMWhat has Underwood done? What did Weber do?
Other than the Deon Thomas stuff (LaPhonso Ellis reportedly was offered $5k/year to sign during that time, too), Illinois hasn't been on probation since 1990.
How about having certain Chicago Public League coaches on the payroll to funnel players to Champaign?
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 26, 2026, 10:57:10 PMArizona is the only team capable of thwarting a Big 18 title. Was hoping to get to 26.
I think Arizona wins it but this really isn't true. Duke is obviously capable. Iowa State is definitely capable.
SJU and UConn MIGHT be capable. Kenpom has the top 5 teams left in the field as Arizona, Michigan, Duke, Illinois, and ISU.
Any of the final 8 teams will be capable of winning it all, except maybe Iowa.
Quote from: Uncle Rico on March 27, 2026, 06:00:46 AMThey run into the same issue old Wisconsin and Virginia ran into in single elimination tournaments, pace of play catches up to them. When baskets aren't falling and they fall behind, it's going to be hard for them to play catch up.
55 points in a 58 possession game. Woof. Just not a good enough shooting team this year and didn't get to the line to help create scoring opportunities. Thought this team was talented enough to make a deeper run than this but not surprised how they lost.
This year's Houston team also lacked height and wasn't quite as dogged defensively.
Illinois is taller and more talented, especially offensively.
Strong start for St.John's. Duke isn't handling their pressure well.
Wow. 9/18 three for St.J on the 1H. Might not be great news they're only up 1.
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 27, 2026, 07:06:09 PMWow. 9/18 three for St.J on the 1H. Might not be great news they're only up 1.
If they shoot 50% from 3 in the 2nd half, they just might win
SJU lights out from 3 in first half and only up one: not feeling good about second half
Michigan definitely needs to go point Yaxel and McKenney. Cadeau stinks out loud.
Quote from: Johnny B on March 27, 2026, 07:14:38 PMSJU lights out from 3 in first half and only up one: not feeling good about second half
The level of physicality in this game is night and day compared to what we see from MU. Tremendous start to the 2H from St.J. Zero fouls, 4 on Duke. Duke I think has only made two triples.
I'm taking one for the team and rooting for ST John's........I don't like it though.....lol
Quote from: MuMark on March 27, 2026, 07:32:51 PMI'm taking one for the team and rooting for ST John's........I don't like it though.....lol
We held St.J to 58 pts! :)
What I wish to see (but do not expect):
a guy makes a jam, doesn't mug for the camera, mouthing a slogan, and turns around and runs to play D.
Wow. I didn't expect this at all from St.J. offensively.
Ruben Prey is Duke's Jean Felix.
Gap continues to widen between St. Johns, UConn and MU. Reeker continues to deny that, even after his sabbatical.
Quote from: willie warrior on March 27, 2026, 07:43:37 PMGap continues to widen between St. Johns, UConn and MU. Reeker continues to deny that, even after his sabbatical.
I was kind of hoping you had croaked, tbh
Quote from: Biggie Clausen on March 27, 2026, 07:39:30 PMRuben Prey is Duke's Jean Felix.
https://x.com/goodmanhoops/status/2037690834993205624?s=61
As good as zuby and b hop are u can't stop all of these future nba all stars its ova
Quote from: Johnny B on March 27, 2026, 08:00:43 PMAs good as zuby and b hop are u can't stop all of these future nba all stars its ova
I'm not sure Duke has that many NBA All Stars this year.
It's weird to be rooting for SJU.
Evans has been the guy.
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 27, 2026, 08:06:54 PMEvans has been the guy.
Boozer & Evans 2 man game is unstoppable right now.
Two Mammoth buckets from Foster. Duke can score in a variety of ways.
Big mistake from St.J not fouling that guy in the corner.
Why did St.J waste 15 secs? Whoops.
Big least gets dominated by the real nba guys not the mid major stars. :( now our knee to unnatural carnal knowledgeing duke
Fuuuuuuuxkk this censorship
Turn it off wtf
unnatural carnal knowledge unnatural carnal knowledge duke kill me plz
Jeesh. Not a good decision. Duke is the better team regardless.
Good game........👍
unnatural carnal knowledgeing aunts unnatural carnal knowledge u
Quote from: Johnny B on March 27, 2026, 08:24:03 PMunnatural carnal knowledgeing aunts unnatural carnal knowledge u
Are you having a stroke? Call 911
Very few teams can get me cheering for Duke. SJU, especially with Pitino as coach, is one of them.
Also, Cayden Boozer getting into foul trouble saved Scheyer's ass tonight. Duke loses if Foster isn't forced into extended minutes with that foul trouble. Speaking of Foster, anybody ever seen him and Gary Harris in the same room? Because...
The Achilles heel for St. John's was their total whiff attempt of getting a decent back court.. hell you throw Nigel James in their decent shot they win it all
Darling 3-7 and 8 points and an airball for the tie.
Sellers 2-9 and 5 points
Jackson 2-8 and 5 points
Sanon 0-4 and 0 points
Liotopoulos 0-1 and 0 points
7 for 29. Gross.
Quote from: ATL MU Warrior on March 27, 2026, 08:27:04 PMAre you having a stroke? Call 911
Did u call? Who tf is outside my house.
Quote from: Johnny B on March 27, 2026, 08:28:04 PMThe Achilles heel for St. John's was their total whiff attempt of getting a decent back court.. hell you throw Nigel James in their decent shot they win it all
They got basically nothing inside the paint, nor did they get to the FT line.
Disappointing season for St. John's.
Quote from: Johnny B on March 27, 2026, 08:28:04 PMThe Achilles heel for St. John's was their total whiff attempt of getting a decent back court.. hell you throw Nigel James in their decent shot they win it all
Absolutely. Pitino will be kicking himself.
The trio of Mitchell/Hopkins/Ejiofor should have had a chance to win a title. Just a total 0 of a backcourt.
Quote from: Johnny B on March 27, 2026, 08:29:14 PMDid u call? Who tf is outside my house.
I'm guessing it's law enforcement for a welfare check
Quote from: ATL MU Warrior on March 27, 2026, 08:31:13 PMI'm guessing it's law enforcement for a welfare check
Worry about urself duke boy
Quote from: Johnny B on March 27, 2026, 08:20:19 PMBig least gets dominated by the real nba guys not the mid major stars. :( now our knee to unnatural carnal knowledgeing duke
Quote from: Johnny B on March 27, 2026, 08:22:56 PMunnatural carnal knowledge unnatural carnal knowledge duke kill me plz
Quote from: Johnny B on March 27, 2026, 08:24:03 PMunnatural carnal knowledgeing aunts unnatural carnal knowledge u
Switch to water.
Lappas has made a very bold statement. He thinks the B18 "has a chance" to win it all this year and break their 25 year losing streak. Lol.
Can't believe Lappas is out here doing S16 games.
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 27, 2026, 08:59:56 PMLappas has made a very bold statement. He thinks the B18 "has a chance" to win it all this year and break their 25 year losing streak. Lol.
They're going to have 4 teams in the Final 4, so he's probably right.
Quote from: Uncle Rico on March 27, 2026, 07:44:31 PMI was kind of hoping you had croaked, tbh
I recently re-upped on the lease for my apartment. Love where I live, but am admittedly being gouged by the company that owns my building. Ah well, so be it. Anyway, as I was signing on the dotted line, I thought to myself, "Man, I'm jealous of willie. Guy's living rent free in Reeker's head."
Quote from: Uncle Rico on March 27, 2026, 09:02:08 PMThey're going to have 4 teams in the Final 4, so he's probably right.
That's my point, I was being sarcastic. They could have 5.
Quote from: Biggie Clausen on March 27, 2026, 09:09:33 PMI recently re-upped on the lease for my apartment. Love where I live, but am admittedly being gouged by the company that owns my building. Ah well, so be it. Anyway, as I was signing on the dotted line, I thought to myself, "Man, I'm jealous of willie. Guy's living rent free in Reeker's head."
😬
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 27, 2026, 09:10:05 PMThat's my point, I was being sarcastic. They could have 5.
Me, too. If the Big 18 can't win one this year, shut it down
UCONN has won 7 straight S16's. That's pretty damn impressive..
Izzo looks extremely unhappy right now. :(
Quote from: Uncle Rico on March 27, 2026, 09:16:25 PMMe, too. If the Big 18 can't win one this year, shut it down
I think Zona is our only hope.
:(
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 27, 2026, 09:18:08 PMI think Zona is our only hope.
:(
Duke can win it as can Iowa State. Jefferson being out probably takes Iowa State out but they have a shooters chance against Michigan.
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 27, 2026, 09:17:34 PMUCONN has won 7 straight S16's. That's pretty damn impressive..
Izzo looks extremely unhappy right now. :(
He always looks unhappy.
Michigan St. has 8 pts in 10 mins.
We need way, way, way, way, way more physicality on our roster folks. This is my biggest takeaway from the tournament.
Reed has been terrific. Maybe the inside game hasn't died.
Quote from: MuMark on March 27, 2026, 07:46:36 PMhttps://x.com/goodmanhoops/status/2037690834993205624?s=61
Anyone have any idea why Rick pretty much benched this dude for most of the 2nd half?
Guy was on fire, then barely played.
Instead, Ian Jackson kept chucking shot after shot, playing terrible defense, and committing silly flagrant fouls.
Pretty egregious on Mr. Pitinos part if you ask me...
He had an brutal end of the game imo. He fouled down only 3 when they didn't need to (got lucky Duke missed a ft).
Then he had Zuby drive for a 2 instead of team attempting a 3- not a great ft shooter, but got lucky again as Duke missed another ft.
Then let "big stones" Darling run up and chuck a 3 that was almost airballed.
I'm pretty sure he was out of timeouts, and Prey wasn't in for most of that. I get he's not a 3P shooter but he's seen it go thru the hoop and you've gotta ride that or at least let him play enough to attempt a few more.
Gotta get Zuby or Hopkins a touch at the end too.
Even HOFers make mistakes. If that was Shaka coaching down the stretch we would lose it
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 27, 2026, 09:33:55 PMWe need way, way, way, way, way more physicality on our roster folks. This is my biggest takeaway from the tournament.
Sounds like your takeaway from last years tournament too.
Except that time you spelled it out more medeviley
Quote from: DoctorV on March 27, 2026, 09:49:14 PMAnyone have any idea why Rick pretty much benched this dude for most of the 2nd half?
Guy was on fire, then barely played.
Instead, Ian Jackson kept chucking shot after shot, playing terrible defense, and committing silly flagrant fouls.
Pretty egregious on Mr. Pitinos part if you ask me...
He had an brutal end of the game imo. He fouled down only 3 when they didn't need to (got lucky Duke missed a ft).
Then he had Zuby drive for a 2 instead of team attempting a 3- not a great ft shooter, but got lucky again as Duke missed another ft.
Then let "big stones" Darling run up and chuck a 3 that was almost airballed.
I'm pretty sure he was out of timeouts, and Prey wasn't in for most of that. I get he's not a 3P shooter but he's seen it go thru the hoop and you've gotta ride that or at least let him play enough to attempt a few more.
Gotta get Zuby or Hopkins a touch at the end too.
Even HOFers make mistakes. If that was Shaka coaching down the stretch we would lose it
Really good question Dr.V.
I feel bad for whoever uses a first round pick on Mullins. Which will probably be me as a Bucks fan.
UCONN lost focus to close the 1H.
I enjoyed Zuby's final (called!) foul ripping the K off of Boozer's jersey.
Quote from: DoctorV on March 27, 2026, 09:49:14 PMAnyone have any idea why Rick pretty much benched this dude for most of the 2nd half?
Guy was on fire, then barely played.
Instead, Ian Jackson kept chucking shot after shot, playing terrible defense, and committing silly flagrant fouls.
Pretty egregious on Mr. Pitinos part if you ask me...
He had an brutal end of the game imo. He fouled down only 3 when they didn't need to (got lucky Duke missed a ft).
Then he had Zuby drive for a 2 instead of team attempting a 3- not a great ft shooter, but got lucky again as Duke missed another ft.
Then let "big stones" Darling run up and chuck a 3 that was almost airballed.
I'm pretty sure he was out of timeouts, and Prey wasn't in for most of that. I get he's not a 3P shooter but he's seen it go thru the hoop and you've gotta ride that or at least let him play enough to attempt a few more.
Gotta get Zuby or Hopkins a touch at the end too.
Even HOFers make mistakes. If that was Shaka coaching down the stretch we would lose it
Pitino might have been thinking about his after dinner restaurant plans for later tonight.....
Quote from: DoctorV on March 27, 2026, 09:50:11 PMSounds like your takeaway from last years tournament too.
Except that time you spelled it out more medeviley
My bad. We need to find the right pieces around our promising triumvirate. And it has to happen ASAP. :)
The UCONN game hasn't been pretty. Fears has been awful and is a really good player. Pretty surprised UCONN hasn't slammed the door.
Say what you want about Hurley, but what he's done at UCONN is amazing.
Very unfortunate Iowa St. lost Jefferson and TTU lost Toppin.
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 27, 2026, 09:33:55 PMWe need way, way, way, way, way more physicality on our roster folks. This is my biggest takeaway from the tournament.
Wait, you mean Ben gold wasn't the answer?
Quote from: #UnleashThePortal on March 28, 2026, 12:21:45 AMWait, you mean Ben gold wasn't the answer?
In a word. No. We need a power and versatile 5. We need guys like Malik Brown who can guard multiple positions. We just need more. Way more.
As far as UCONN/Duke, who guards Boozer? Karaban? Because Reed checking him from the top doesn't seem like a great idea.
Quote from: #UnleashThePortal on March 28, 2026, 12:21:45 AMWait, you mean Ben gold wasn't the answer?
Why limit it to Ben? Who was physical on MU's roster?
Quote from: DoctorV on March 27, 2026, 09:49:14 PMAnyone have any idea why Rick pretty much benched this dude for most of the 2nd half?
Guy was on fire, then barely played.
Yeah, it was strange that Prey didn't play a second after scoring 12 points in 13 minutes. I was talking to the TV, asking where he was.
Quote from: wadesworld on March 27, 2026, 08:27:47 PMCayden Boozer getting into foul trouble saved Scheyer's ass tonight. Duke loses if Foster isn't forced into extended minutes with that foul trouble.
Foster was very impressive. Made plays, took care of the ball, saved Duke's bacon.
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 27, 2026, 11:45:12 PMVery unfortunate Iowa St. lost Jefferson
Losing your stud during the tournament is a killer. Momcilovic not showing up and ISU shooting FTs like MU were killers, too.
On another note ...
I kinda like that the B18 makes up half the Elite Eight ... but the Weasels lost to a 12-seed just a few hours into the tournament.
Quote from: MU82 on March 28, 2026, 12:55:52 AMYeah, it was strange that Prey didn't play a second after scoring 12 points in 13 minutes. I was talking to the TV, asking where he was.
Foster was very impressive. Made plays, took care of the ball, saved Duke's bacon.
Losing your stud during the tournament is a killer. Momcilovic not showing up and ISU shooting FTs like MU were killers, too.
On another note ...
I kinda like that the B18 makes up half the Elite Eight ... but the Weasels lost to a 12-seed just a few hours into the tournament.
Yes. The Weasels went 5-2 against the 4 B18 teams in the E8. :( But lost to High Point. :) :)
As for the match-ups....they seem lopsided. Maybe Iowa finds a way? I'm having a hard seeing Tennessee or Purdue winning. UCONN has a chance but they're going to need Reed to stay out of foul trouble and have big games from their guards.
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 28, 2026, 12:42:54 AMAs far as UCONN/Duke, who guards Boozer? Karaban? Because Reed checking him from the top doesn't seem like a great idea.
Boozer is a bruised. The refs have let him body everybody. He gets away with a lot of push offs.
Yes, the gap between MU and UConn and St. John's in talent and coaching is definitely widening. That cannot be denied. Even though a few on this board have sneered at that. Shaka needs to get his ass in giddyup mode
Quote from: willie warrior on March 28, 2026, 06:11:09 AMYes, the gap between MU and UConn and St. John's in talent and coaching is definitely widening. That cannot be denied. Even though a few on this board have sneered at that. Shaka needs to get his ass in giddyup mode
Or what? You'll stop donating to the program? Take your Warriors pennant down in your basement?
Iowa State v Tennessee
Game of Matchups. Without Jefferson, playing against a top 5 rebounding team, too much size and physicality. 43-22 and 16-5 offensive. Ament added a scorer with Gillespie. Okpara and Carey each with 10 boards.
Quote from: DoctorV on March 27, 2026, 09:49:14 PMAnyone have any idea why Rick pretty much benched this dude for most of the 2nd half?
Guy was on fire, then barely played.
Instead, Ian Jackson kept chucking shot after shot, playing terrible defense, and committing silly flagrant fouls.
Pretty egregious on Mr. Pitinos part if you ask me...
He had an brutal end of the game imo. He fouled down only 3 when they didn't need to (got lucky Duke missed a ft).
Then he had Zuby drive for a 2 instead of team attempting a 3- not a great ft shooter, but got lucky again as Duke missed another ft.
Then let "big stones" Darling run up and chuck a 3 that was almost airballed.
I'm pretty sure he was out of timeouts, and Prey wasn't in for most of that. I get he's not a 3P shooter but he's seen it go thru the hoop and you've gotta ride that or at least let him play enough to attempt a few more.
Gotta get Zuby or Hopkins a touch at the end too.
Even HOFers make mistakes. If that was Shaka coaching down the stretch we would lose it
He got the Preyer from Vegas: Let's point shave without really shaving points.
Quote from: muwarrior69 on March 28, 2026, 09:02:46 AMHe got the Preyer from Vegas: Let's point shave without really shaving points.
::)
It's not gonna happen but if a B18 is going to win it, I wouldn't have a problem with Iowa. Realistically do they have much of a chance today? Maybe Stirtz finally has a good shooting day? McCollum isn't going anywhere. It makes you wonder if there are other coaching gems in D2.
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 28, 2026, 10:12:11 AMIt's not gonna happen but if a B18 is going to win it, I wouldn't have a problem with Iowa. Realistically do they have much of a chance today? Maybe Stirtz finally has a good shooting day? McCollum isn't going anywhere. It makes you wonder if there are other coaching gens in D2.
Who cares if the B1G wins the national title? I'd easily rather have Dusty May/Michigan win a title than SJU/Rick Pitino.
And of course they have a chance. They'll slow it down, and McCollum is maybe the best coach in college basketball. I'd bet on IL, but would be in no way shocked if Iowa won.
Quote from: wadesworld on March 28, 2026, 10:25:04 AMWho cares if the B1G wins the national title? I'd easily rather have Dusty May/Michigan win a title than SJU/Rick Pitino.
And of course they have a chance. They'll slow it down, and McCollum is maybe the best coach in college basketball. I'd bet on IL, but would be in no way shocked if Iowa won.
Illinois has so much length and talent. But they could conceivably choke.
Quote from: MU82 on March 28, 2026, 12:55:52 AMYeah, it was strange that Prey didn't play a second after scoring 12 points in 13 minutes. I was talking to the TV, asking where he was.
Losing your stud during the tournament is a killer. Momcilovic not showing up and ISU shooting FTs like MU were killers, too.
#FakeNews #Lies
Prey sucks badly and FTs weren't the issue for ISU.
Quote from: Jay Bee on March 28, 2026, 11:12:38 AM#FakeNews #Lies
Prey sucks badly and FTs weren't the issue for ISU.
It wasn't their primary issue but are you saying if they made 90% of them it couldn't change momentum or put some game pressure on Tennessee?
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 28, 2026, 11:23:31 AMIt wasn't their primary issue but are you saying if they made 90% of them it couldn't change momentum or put some game pressure on Tennessee?
100% they could have. Iowa State left a lot of points at the line, somehow shooting worse at the line than their season average.
Tennessee playing more aggressively knowing fouls wouldn't hurt them because the 'clones are terrible at FT shooting. FTs doomed Iowa State.
Quote from: Uncle Rico on March 28, 2026, 11:35:50 AM100% they could have. Iowa State left a lot of points at the line, somehow shooting worse at the line than their season average.
Tennessee playing more aggressively knowing fouls wouldn't hurt them because the 'clones are terrible at FT shooting. FTs doomed Iowa State.
I mean I get it's far more about FTA's than FT percentage, but you mentioned things that stats don't measure. Stats don't measure momentum or thwarting momentum. Stats don't measure what happened exactly when Scheyer went to a zone. Stats don't measure what you're suggesting about Tenn's continued aggressive defense, even in heavy foul trouble.
I heard Dusty May say something interesting this morning. He said the game swung in Michigan's favor yesterday when they abandoned quick threes and took shots closer to the rim. Why? Because it played to their bigs' stregths and their size advantage. In other words not all offensive rebounds are created equally, you can obviously state the same thing about turnovers.
How many fouls are drawn on an offensive rebound near the rim vs an offensive rebound from a back iron three that ricochets out to the perimeter? Or, if a team is doubling or denying a good interior player, and that team continues to take threes, what the likelihood the solid big will get involved in the game? Isn't there a better chance they can offensive rebound, and be more active, if a teammate breaks down the defense with a blow by and forcing the D to help? I just think there are way more nuances than basic black and white stats. This is why MU in particular would benefit greatly from a power big that can finish. Imagine the opportunities when Nigel zooms by his initial defender? I would like a major presence in the paint on both ends of the floor.
Quote from: Jay Bee on March 28, 2026, 11:12:38 AM#FakeNews #Lies
Prey sucks badly and FTs weren't the issue for ISU.
Yeah, you're wrong.
Quote from: Jay Bee on March 28, 2026, 11:12:38 AM#FakeNews #Lies
Prey sucks badly and FTs weren't the issue for ISU.
Prey usually does, but he was terrific in that first half last night.
Quote from: Uncle Rico on March 28, 2026, 06:58:34 AMOr what? You'll stop donating to the program? Take your Warriors pennant down in your basement?
Says the dork who was the biggest denier of the gap theory. Then when the gap theory became acutely apparent, he hid under the table fow a while to hide his embarrasment that his snarky smugness was exposed. Now the season is over and he is back expounding his wisdom. Take your Reeker pennant down from the ceiling over your bed.
Quote from: MU82 on March 28, 2026, 01:17:09 PMYeah, you're wrong.
lol, no. "hey guys ISU lost bc of free throws. ignore TN's 56.8%-43.5% monster edge in eFG%, and also TN rebounding more than half of their own misses (the only team to do that to ISU this season.. and TN is the best in the nation on the o-boards)"
Quote from: williewarrior on March 28, 2026, 03:30:30 PMSays the dork who was the biggest denier of the gap theory. Then when the gap theory became acutely apparent, he hid under the table fow a while to hide his embarrasment that his snarky smugness was exposed. Now the season is over and he is back expounding his wisdom. Take your Reeker pennant down from the ceiling over your bed.
You have two accounts? Why?
Quote from: Jay Bee on March 28, 2026, 03:53:34 PMlol, no. "hey guys ISU lost bc of free throws. ignore TN's 56.8%-43.5% monster edge in eFG%, and also TN rebounding more than half of their own misses (the only team to do that to ISU this season.. and TN is the best in the nation on the o-boards)"
I didn't say they lost because of missed FTs. I said it was "a" contributor to the loss.
They were trying to rally ... they kept getting fouled ... and they kept missing FTs. Which I guess was actually a good thing, right? Who needs points when you're trying to make a comeback?
Anyhoo. The absence of Jefferson was the biggest factor. And Momcilovic being on a milk carton hurt ISU badly. Or maybe you don't think those things mattered, either. Whatever floats your boat.
Good start for Iowa.
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 28, 2026, 05:17:33 PMGood start for Iowa.
They've been better offensively in 4 minutes than Houston was in 40
Fk. Fouls could become a prob for Iowa.
WTF? I missed what happened and the reason for this delay.
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 28, 2026, 05:48:31 PMWTF? I missed what happened and the reason for this delay.
They couldn't turn off the arena's buzzer. Literally
Shoulda called willie for a quick buzz kill
Terrible 2nd foul on Stirtz. Smh.
McCollum is easily one of the top 10 coaches in the country. Our next AD hired him at Drake.
Stirtz is a pro. But the rest of that Iowa team? Not much there. If they pull this off? Build McCollum a statue in I-City.
Quote from: Billy Hoyle on March 28, 2026, 06:10:22 PMMcCollum is easily one of the top 10 coaches in the country. Our next AD hired him at Drake.
Oh...absolutely no question Ben McCollum is the real deal. What an incredible job he's done.
Iowa doesn't have enough. The size of Illinois is just unfair. :(
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 28, 2026, 06:33:41 PMIowa doesn't have enough. The size of Illinois is just unfair. :(
It's a tie game.
Quote from: wadesworld on March 28, 2026, 06:45:06 PMIt's a tie game.
Yes...but you can see the talent discrepancy.
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 28, 2026, 06:46:37 PMYes...but you can see the talent discrepancy.
You could with Florida too. Try just enjoying the game rather than calling every game over when a team takes a 1 point lead. Iowa has the best player on the floor and maybe the best coach in the game. It's tied at the under 12 timeout. Acting like Iowa has no chance is insane.
Quote from: wadesworld on March 28, 2026, 06:52:10 PMYou could with Florida too. Try just enjoying the game rather than calling every game over when a team takes a 1 point lead. Iowa has the best player on the floor and maybe the best coach in the game. It's tied at the under 12 timeout. Acting like Iowa has no chance is insane.
I'm trying the reverse jinx strategy. :)
Fk.
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 28, 2026, 06:33:41 PMIowa doesn't have enough. The size of Illinois is just unfair. :(
Yeah, and the tightening whistle hurts them more. They can't defend if they can't do so physically.
Quote from: brewcity77 on March 28, 2026, 07:11:21 PMYeah, and the tightening whistle hurts them more. They can't defend if they can't do so physically.
Good point.
Fun season for Iowa but ultimately a complete and total failure.
If we have four scholarships, we need two bigs, a reserve PG, and a wing. If we have three, we need two bigs and a combo that can play 1-3. Size is king.
Purdue bigs are absolutely elite at hooking defenders while going for offensive rebounds.
Quote from: brewcity77 on March 28, 2026, 08:05:26 PMIf we have four scholarships, we need two bigs, a reserve PG, and a wing. If we have three, we need two bigs and a combo that can play 1-3. Size is king.
Size plus 24 year old freshman who have been playing professional basketball overseas for 3 years.
Quote from: wadesworld on March 28, 2026, 08:22:19 PMSize plus 24 year old freshman who have been playing professional basketball overseas for 3 years.
Seem worth pursuing in this day and age.
Quote from: wadesworld on March 28, 2026, 08:22:19 PMSize plus 24 year old freshman who have been playing professional basketball overseas for 3 years.
I'm not talking about Illinois specifically. I'm talking about Michigan, Arizona, Purdue, Duke, Florida, Michigan St, Arkansas, for the most part the teams that are advancing can roll out 3-4 legit big men.
Quote from: wadesworld on March 28, 2026, 08:22:19 PMSize plus 24 year old freshman who have been playing professional basketball overseas for 3 years.
Which one is that? The oldest player for Illinois is the kid Humrichous (sp?) who is 24 and got a Pavia waiver after playing NAIA.
The Eastern European freshman, Mirkovic, is 20, the Ivisic twins are 22, they do have a 23 year old sophomore who averages under 2ppg
Not a good 1H for Zona. We'll see if Lloyd has made any adjustments.
Quote from: brewcity77 on March 28, 2026, 08:43:12 PMI'm not talking about Illinois specifically. I'm talking about Michigan, Arizona, Purdue, Duke, Florida, Michigan St, Arkansas, for the most part the teams that are advancing can roll out 3-4 legit big men.
Sure would have been nice to have gotten that Lucas Morillo commitment - a 6'7" combo guard compliment to Nigel for next year? Yes, please.
Maybe I'm biased but it looks to me that Purdue gets away with a lot of b-ass. Hooking, moving screens, pushing, pick your violation.
Quote from: barfolomew on March 28, 2026, 09:26:58 PMSure would have been nice to have gotten that Lucas Morillo commitment - a 6'7" combo guard compliment to Nigel for next year? Yes, please.
Lotsa ppl compliment Nigel. Wonder if he could complement him?
They finally called Cluff fur a moving screen! Bout time.
I would not have guessed Arizona had a longer Final Four drought than us.
The two teams that woj tonight had multiple bigs who can defend and score. Michigan does too. We have Caedin and Josh...
Well, we have finally seen the last of this Purdue group.
We saw what power hoops is all about in the 2nd H. Good job by Zona using their athleticism and relentlessly attacking downhill. Very few turns as well. Kharcherov? impressed me.
Quote from: Billy Hoyle on March 28, 2026, 09:57:21 PMI would not have guessed Arizona had a longer Final Four drought than us.
The two teams that woj tonight had multiple bigs who can defend and score. Michigan does too. We have Caedin and Josh...
Yes. Illinois and Arizona, along with Michigan have the perfect roster constructions. Good portal guys, top 25 recruits (except that Waglar), and international bigs.
Arizona-Michigan would be awesome semi final game.
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 28, 2026, 10:07:54 PMWe saw what power hoops is all about in the 2nd H. Good job by Zona using their athleticism and relentlessly attacking downhill. Very few turns as well. Kharcherov? impressed me.
Zero in the second half. And they took the lead by pounding the ball into the paint.
The Big Ten was talking 4 teams in the Final Four yesterday, at best, they'll get two. Come on Tennessee!!!
What is the obsession with the B1G?
If Michigan wins tomorrow this Final 4 in Indy will be incredible.
Having all those Illinois and Michigan fans will make it one of the best ever in entertainment value imo.
Not to mention the games will be awesome
Illinois v UConn/Duke and Arizona v Michigan (go away Tennessee!)
Arizona and Michigan have looked the best teams in the sport all season, and it hasn't changed in March.
I have a strange feeling that Illinois will shoot really well and be up for the challenge against either opponent, and I think we will see a final of Illinois v Az/Michigan.
Of course in that game the Illini would have to play a nearly perfect game to win.
As an aside, in a season where it seems like UConn has just been struggling its way along (despite the 2 seed), would be great to see them pull a "miracle" and win it all.
The ncaab world would be shocked because no one has been talking about them at all.
Quote from: wadesworld on March 28, 2026, 10:20:50 PMWhat is the obsession with the B1G?
Keeping the Big East's record of three teams in the Final Four is nice.
More so, the Big Ten has led the charge in charging college sports for the worse. They have destroyed conferences with their expansion tactics and will continue to try and destroy more. They and the SEC are the ones controlling college sports and the NCAA right now.
Quote from: DoctorV on March 28, 2026, 10:29:24 PMIf Michigan wins tomorrow this Final 4 in Indy will be incredible.
Having all those Illinois and Michigan fans will make it one of the best ever in entertainment value imo.
Not to mention the games will be awesome
Illinois v UConn/Duke and Arizona v Michigan (go away Tennessee!)
Arizona and Michigan have looked the best teams in the sport all season, and it hasn't changed in March.
I have a strange feeling that Illinois will shoot really well and be up for the challenge against either opponent, and I think we will see a final of Illinois v Az/Michigan.
Of course in that game the Illini would have to play a nearly perfect game to win.
As an aside, in a season where it seems like UConn has just been struggling its way along (despite the 2 seed), would be great to see them pull a "miracle" and win it all.
The ncaab world would be shocked because no one has been talking about them at all.
Quote from: DoctorV on March 28, 2026, 10:29:24 PMIf Michigan wins tomorrow this Final 4 in Indy will be incredible.
Having all those Illinois and Michigan fans will make it one of the best ever in entertainment value imo.
Not to mention the games will be awesome
Illinois v UConn/Duke and Arizona v Michigan (go away Tennessee!)
Arizona and Michigan have looked the best teams in the sport all season, and it hasn't changed in March.
I have a strange feeling that Illinois will shoot really well and be up for the challenge against either opponent, and I think we will see a final of Illinois v Az/Michigan.
Of course in that game the Illini would have to play a nearly perfect game to win.
As an aside, in a season where it seems like UConn has just been struggling its way along (despite the 2 seed), would be great to see them pull a "miracle" and win it all.
The ncaab world would be shocked because no one has been talking about them at all.
The potential Zona/Michigan game could be pretty epic Dr.V.
Quote from: wadesworld on March 28, 2026, 10:20:50 PMWhat is the obsession with the B1G?
What's wrong with wanting 26 straight and counting?
I have AZ beating Illinois in my title game on my brackets.
Had Michigan State and Iowa State as my other Final Four teams.
So...I guess I'm still pulling for an AZ over Illinois title.
Would be pretty neat to see Tennessee beat Michigan tomorrow. I'll pull for the Huskies tomorrow too.
Tommy Lloyd MUST go to UNC if he is to have any chance of winning anything. Can't get good players to go to Arizona.
Tennessee has a puncher's chance vs Michigan. But Gillespie in particular has to have a big game
Quote from: DoctorV on March 28, 2026, 10:29:24 PMIf Michigan wins tomorrow this Final 4 in Indy will be incredible.
Having all those Illinois and Michigan fans will make it one of the best ever in entertainment value imo.
Not to mention the games will be awesome
Illinois v UConn/Duke and Arizona v Michigan (go away Tennessee!)
Arizona and Michigan have looked the best teams in the sport all season, and it hasn't changed in March.
I have a strange feeling that Illinois will shoot really well and be up for the challenge against either opponent, and I think we will see a final of Illinois v Az/Michigan.
Of course in that game the Illini would have to play a nearly perfect game to win.
As an aside, in a season where it seems like UConn has just been struggling its way along (despite the 2 seed), would be great to see them pull a "miracle" and win it all.
The ncaab world would be shocked because no one has been talking about them at all.
Plus then we could hang a "beat the national champs" banner!
Quote from: Billy Hoyle on March 28, 2026, 10:30:22 PMKeeping the Big East's record of three teams in the Final Four is nice.
More so, the Big Ten has led the charge in charging college sports for the worse. They have destroyed conferences with their expansion tactics and will continue to try and destroy more. They and the SEC are the ones controlling college sports and the NCAA right now.
College sports is better than its ever been.
Quote from: wadesworld on March 28, 2026, 10:20:50 PMWhat is the obsession with the B1G?
Little brother syndrome
Quote from: The Sultan on March 29, 2026, 06:50:38 AMCollege sports is better than its ever been.
Yes and no. I'd argue the in-person fan experience has never been worse.
It's nuanced and the argument can go either way. The concern about the SEC and Big 18 shouldn't be ignored. The guaranteed spots in the football playoff will eventually make their way to basketball.
I am being somewhat hyperbolic, but that's because there is too much complaining about what college sports has become. And frankly a lot of that IMO is because people simply are nostalgic for what it was.
The portal and NIL has definitely improved that quality of play at the highest levels. Yeah, I know it sucks for the mid-majors who get their rosters destroyed if a player shows any ability to play at a P5 school, but I have noticed in both basketball and football that, come tournament time, the quality is there.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 29, 2026, 06:50:38 AMCollege sports is better than its ever been.
...but will it be for Marquette?
Quote from: muwarrior69 on March 29, 2026, 08:47:50 AM...but will it be for Marquette?
Only when the whiney old Boomers die off. Like Moses and the promised land, they will not be able to enter the next golden age.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 29, 2026, 08:01:36 AMI am being somewhat hyperbolic, but that's because there is too much complaining about what college sports has become. And frankly a lot of that IMO is because people simply are nostalgic for what it was.
The portal and NIL has definitely improved that quality of play at the highest levels. Yeah, I know it sucks for the mid-majors who get their rosters destroyed if a player shows any ability to play at a P5 school, but I have noticed in both basketball and football that, come tournament time, the quality is there.
Great - just like it is in the NBA and NFL. If all I cared about was elite ball skills I'd go there.
Everything that made the NCAA, and in particular NCAA MBB and in particular the NCAAT was that if you were a mid major and mixed in a bit or work with some luck you could put together a team that would be successful over multiple years.
No mid-major in the S16 since 2023 is a complete failure of the system. When the biggest Cinderella is TX, with an athletics budget of 6.5 gazillion dollars (or NC State), it's hard to find much drama.
I'm sure this will continue on just like the corporate soul whoring of every other piece of Americana that was ever actually worthwhile, but something much better has definitely been lost.
Quote from: 1SE on March 29, 2026, 09:19:08 AMGreat - just like it is in the NBA and NFL. If all I cared about was elite ball skills I'd go there.
Everything that made the NCAA, and in particular NCAA MBB and in particular the NCAAT was that if you were a mid major and mixed in a bit or work with some luck you could put together a team that would be successful over multiple years.
No mid-major in the S16 since 2023 is a complete failure of the system. When the biggest Cinderella is TX, with an athletics budget of 6.5 gazillion dollars (or NC State), it's hard to find much drama.
I'm sure this will continue on just like the corporate soul whoring of every other piece of Americana that was ever actually worthwhile, but something much better has definitely been lost.
This tournament has been awesome. Not having St. Peter's being doubled up at halftime of an Elite 8 game is great. Would much rather have a tight Iowa vs. Nebraska game.
And it appears most of America would, too, given that the Tournament has been breaking viewership records.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 29, 2026, 06:50:38 AMCollege sports is better than its ever been.
Sure, if you like the underdogs being the richest athletic department in the country and a Big Ten school, or the best players consolidated at the top. It's becoming like the EPL and other soccer leagues, where only a small percentage of teams are legit title contenders, and the talent is concentrated with them. And when a smaller program finds and develops a stud, they'll be bought by the big guys. At least in the EPL, those teams are compensated.
In the CFP, James Madison and Tulane getting blown out is all the ammo the Big Ten and SEC need to eliminate bids for the Group of 5 conferences (but Oregon getting blown out themselves in back to back years is proof that the system works) and it's coming for the NCAA tournament as the Big Ten and SEC continue to flex their muscles and bully the NCAA with the "do what we want or we're leaving" threats. There will be a minimum number of spots for the power conferences. In the past, the media would complain when a deserving mid-major was passed over for a mediocre high-major; now it's the other way around.
Quote from: Billy Hoyle on March 29, 2026, 09:34:11 AMSure, if you like the underdogs being the richest athletic department in the country and a Big Ten school, or the best players consolidated at the top. It's becoming like the EPL and other soccer leagues, where only a small percentage of teams are legit title contenders, and the talent is concentrated with them. And when a smaller program finds and develops a stud, they'll be bought by the big guys. At least in the EPL, those teams are compensated.
In the CFP, James Madison and Tulane getting blown out is all the ammo the Big Ten and SEC need to eliminate bids for the Group of 5 conferences (but Oregon getting blown out themselves in back to back years is proof that the system works) and it's coming for the NCAA tournament as the Big Ten and SEC continue to flex their muscles and bully the NCAA with the "do what we want or we're leaving" threats. There will be a minimum number of spots for the power conferences. In the past, the media would complain when a deserving mid-major was passed over for a mediocre high-major; now it's the other way around.
What mid majors this year were passed up for power conference teams? Or were underseeded? If anything, Miami OH shouldn't have made it and teams like SLU were very fairly seeded.
Also, what number are the SEC and B1G going to require in terms of minimum number of teams in the Tournament that they wouldn't be getting in regardless?
Quote from: wadesworld on March 29, 2026, 09:21:52 AMThis tournament has been awesome. Not having St. Peter's being doubled up at halftime of an Elite 8 game is great. Would much rather have a tight Iowa vs. Nebraska game.
And it appears most of America would, too, given that the Tournament has been breaking viewership records.
Quote from: wadesworld on March 29, 2026, 09:21:52 AMThis tournament has been awesome. Not having St. Peter's being doubled up at halftime of an Elite 8 game is great. Would much rather have a tight Iowa vs. Nebraska game.
And it appears most of America would, too, given that the Tournament has been breaking viewership records.
You mean that in teal right?
Because if you think its more exciting to have a January Tuesday night BiG 28 match up as your elite 8 game than to have a 15 seed no one has ever heard of upset a 2 (thats the anti-hero of.college ball) and a 3 on their WAY to the E8...
Quote from: wadesworld on March 29, 2026, 10:02:50 AMWhat mid majors this year were passed up for power conference teams? Or were underseeded? If anything, Miami OH shouldn't have made it and teams like SLU were very fairly seeded.
Also, what number are the SEC and B1G going to require in terms of minimum number of teams in the Tournament that they wouldn't be getting in regardless?
Might as well just have a BIG32 and SEC32 and match them up on opposite sides of the bracket.
Quote from: 1SE on March 29, 2026, 10:10:28 AMYou mean that in teal right?
Because if you think its more exciting to have a January Tuesday night BiG 28 match up as your elite 8 game than to have a 15 seed no one has ever heard of upset a 2 (thats the anti-hero of.college ball) and a 3 on their WAY to the E8...
Yes, I thought it was WAY better to have a game that could go either way at the under 8 timeout of the second half between two power conference teams who don't have a ton of basketball success rather than having an elite 8 game being over well before the under 8 timeout of the first half. And it's not even remotely close to me.
Quote from: wadesworld on March 29, 2026, 10:02:50 AMWhat mid majors this year were passed up for power conference teams? Or were underseeded? If anything, Miami OH shouldn't have made it and teams like SLU were very fairly seeded.
Also, what number are the SEC and B1G going to require in terms of minimum number of teams in the Tournament that they wouldn't be getting in regardless?
San Diego State and New Mexico both should have gotten in over NC State and SMU. And had they not won their conference tournament, VCU would not have gotten in, despite being more than deserving. South Florida wouldn't have gotten in had they not won their conference tourney either.
But my first point stands: the consolidation of talent is resulting in fewer schools outside the P4 being in the conversation for an at-large, let alone making a run in the tourney. Just three years ago, we had San Diego State and Florida Atlantic in the final four, both winning games that went down to the final possession, one over non-P4 Creighton. Those days are over. Now our underdog is from the richest athletic department in the country.
Have we ever seen a Freshmen class like this? I can't remember so many players being this good. I'm really curious how the NBA scouts decide between those outside the top 3. Wagler to me has enormous upside. It might take him a few years but I wouldn't be deterred that he's a bit on the skinny side. This NBA draft is likely going to bring in a completely new era of big time players.
Quote from: Billy Hoyle on March 29, 2026, 09:34:11 AMSure, if you like the underdogs being the richest athletic department in the country and a Big Ten school, or the best players consolidated at the top. It's becoming like the EPL and other soccer leagues, where only a small percentage of teams are legit title contenders, and the talent is concentrated with them. And when a smaller program finds and develops a stud, they'll be bought by the big guys. At least in the EPL, those teams are compensated.
WTF are you talking about? Indiana just won the CFP title this season. In-di-ana.
And when did an era exist where more than "a small percentage of teams" were legit title contenders? This is all more nostalgia than it is actual history.
Quote from: wadesworld on March 29, 2026, 10:20:02 AMYes, I thought it was WAY better to have a game that could go either way at the under 8 timeout of the second half between two power conference teams who don't have a ton of basketball success rather than having an elite 8 game being over well before the under 8 timeout of the first half. And it's not even remotely close to me.
Yep, what a rare and exciting match up of David and goliath that ended up with a nail biting 12 point margin, I'm sure in 5 years when we ask who did Ill beat in the 2026 elite 8 no one outside iowa will know. But ask who beat 2 seed kentucky...
And under your logic we might as well vacate our last elite 8 and FF runs because those didn't end in competitive games either - would have been much better to have been replaced by the 6th place SEC team
Quote from: 1SE on March 29, 2026, 09:19:08 AMGreat - just like it is in the NBA and NFL. If all I cared about was elite ball skills I'd go there.
Everything that made the NCAA, and in particular NCAA MBB and in particular the NCAAT was that if you were a mid major and mixed in a bit or work with some luck you could put together a team that would be successful over multiple years.
No mid-major in the S16 since 2023 is a complete failure of the system. When the biggest Cinderella is TX, with an athletics budget of 6.5 gazillion dollars (or NC State), it's hard to find much drama.
I'm sure this will continue on just like the corporate soul whoring of every other piece of Americana that was ever actually worthwhile, but something much better has definitely been lost.
I hate to break it to you, but the ratings show that no one actually wants to watch mid-majors.
And also, if you can't tell that the product on the court is better than it was just a few years ago, I don't know what to tell you. People actually want to watch good basketball being played.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 29, 2026, 10:32:49 AMI hate to break it to you, but the ratings show that no one actually wants to watch mid-majors.
Yes, because ratings are the only thing that makes things worthwhile. You and Timotheeee must be best buds.
Quote from: 1SE on March 29, 2026, 10:34:25 AMYes, because ratings are the only thing that makes things worthwhile.
No, it means that a bunch of people don't share your view about what makes the tournament special. The magic of the tournament isn't mid-majors. The magic of the tournament is a single elimination format that generates good, compelling basketball games.
Quote from: 1SE on March 29, 2026, 10:34:25 AMYou and Timotheeee must be best buds.
I have no idea what this means.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 29, 2026, 10:32:49 AMI hate to break it to you, but the ratings show that no one actually wants to watch mid-majors.
And also, if you can't tell that the product on the court is better than it was just a few years ago, I don't know what to tell you. People actually want to watch good basketball being played.
Let me tell you about this thing called the NBA. Incredible skills. And nothing worthwhile.about high school ball - have you seen those kids? They suck!
And as per receipts.
Saint Peter's vs. North Carolina (2022 Elite Eight): 7.21 rating, 13.58 million viewers on CBS. �
Sports Media Watch
Saint Peter's vs. Purdue (2022 Sweet 16): 5.35 rating, 10.18 million viewers on CBS. �
Against the 2024–25 Elite Eight average of 9.54 million viewers, the Saint Peter's-UNC Elite Eight game at 13.58 million was about 42% higher. �
Sports Media Watch +2
Quote from: The Sultan on March 29, 2026, 10:38:54 AMNo, it means that a bunch of people don't share your view about what makes the tournament special. The magic of the tournament isn't mid-majors. The magic of the tournament is a single elimination format that generates good, compelling basketball games.
I have no idea what this means.
Well, at least that tracks
Quote from: 1SE on March 29, 2026, 10:39:18 AMLet me tell you about this thing called the NBA. Incredible skills. And nothing worthwhile.about high school ball - have you seen those kids? They suck!
They do. High school basketball is awful. I probably have seen five games since my kids stopped playing 10-12 years ago.
Quote from: 1SE on March 29, 2026, 10:39:18 AMAnd as per receipts.
Saint Peter's vs. North Carolina (2022 Elite Eight): 7.21 rating, 13.58 million viewers on CBS. �
Sports Media Watch
Saint Peter's vs. Purdue (2022 Sweet 16): 5.35 rating, 10.18 million viewers on CBS. �
Against the 2024–25 Elite Eight average of 9.54 million viewers, the Saint Peter's-UNC Elite Eight game at 13.58 million was about 42% higher. �
Sports Media Watch +2
Cherry pick data all you want. The tournament at large has seen ratings upticks.
But go on about "Americana" or some such nonsense.
And even if you weren't wrong with the actual receipts, no doubt from a baseline IOWA and ILL and their 6.7 million collective alumni (and all the in-state wannabes who went to EIU but wear Illini stuff) are going to.raise viewership compared to the 849 annual st Peters alums- even if the number of casual viewers is the.same. and you're right, they're are overall better teams because they have a gazillion dollars to spend in NIL because they have a gazillion alums and huge TV contracts because the networks know they have a gazillion alum who will watch games. But it's an objectively worse product.the NCAAT has never been about watching elite basketball (seriously, if you want that watch try this thing called the NBA - those guys are good) -it was about the magic that any podunk school that you've never heard of might make their way to the Elite 8 and play ball.in front of 14 million people.on TV. A true American story that with determination and skill and luck anyone can make it. What we have now is what everything else in America is - the richest can buy up the game to make.themselves richer. Cool. Totally the American dream.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 29, 2026, 10:44:03 AMThey do. High school basketball is awful. I probably have seen five games since my kids stopped playing 10-12 years ago.
Cherry pick data all you want. The tournament at large has seen ratings upticks.
But go on about "Americana" or some such nonsense.
.
I'm literally showing you that the mid major game you claimed no one wanted to watch had 40% more viewers than the elite 8 games the last two years with no mid majors
Quote from: 1SE on March 29, 2026, 10:49:12 AMAnd even if you weren't wrong with the actual receipts, no doubt from a baseline IOWA and ILL and their 6.7 million collective alumni (and all the in-state wannabes who went to EIU but wear Illini stuff) are going to.raise viewership compared to the 849 annual st Peters alums- even if the number of casual viewers is the.same. and you're right, they're are overall better teams because they have a gazillion dollars to spend in NIL because they have a gazillion alums and huge TV contracts because the networks know they have a gazillion alum who will watch games. But it's an objectively worse product.the NCAAT has never been about watching elite basketball (seriously, if you want that watch try this thing called the NBA - those guys are seriously good) -it was about the magic that any podunk school that you've never heard of might make their way to the Elite 8 and play ball.in front of 14 million people.on TV. A true American story that with determination and skill and luck anyone can make it. What we have now is what everything else in America is - the richest can buy up the game to make.themselves richer. Cool. Totally the American dream.
Imagine being nostalgic over a game that North Carolina lead 38-19 at halftime. Good lord.
The less of that bad basketball the better.
Give me Purdue and Texas hitting shot after shot with a tip in the final seconds to win it any day over that.
Quote from: 1SE on March 29, 2026, 10:51:02 AMI'm literally showing you that the mid major game you claimed no one wanted to watch had 40% more viewers than the elite 8 games the last two years with no mid majors
Keep cherry picking. It doesn't prove your point.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 29, 2026, 10:32:49 AMI hate to break it to you, but the ratings show that no one actually wants to watch mid-majors.
And also, if you can't tell that the product on the court is better than it was just a few years ago, I don't know what to tell you. People actually want to watch good basketball being played.
See... you said this, so I used numbers and facts to show you were wrong. If you have other numbers and facts that show differently please do present them.
Quote from: 1SE on March 29, 2026, 11:00:15 AMSee... you said this, so I used numbers and facts to show you were wrong. If you have other numbers and facts that show differently please do present them.
You picked one game. One. LOL.
https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/2026-ncaa-tournament-tv-ratings-212311356.html
Ratings up across the board. Ratings up in the regular season. People want to watch good basketball. NIL and the portal is helping that.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 29, 2026, 11:06:41 AMYou picked one game. One. LOL.
https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/2026-ncaa-tournament-tv-ratings-212311356.html
Ratings up across the board. Ratings up in the regular season. People want to watch good basketball. NIL and the portal is helping that.
you know what's helping it most of all? Gamblers tuning in. That Americans are increasingly sedentary.
Quote from: Billy Hoyle on March 29, 2026, 11:18:34 AMyou know what's helping it most of all? Gamblers tuning in. That Americans are increasingly sedentary.
Ah.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 29, 2026, 10:28:23 AMWTF are you talking about? Indiana just won the CFP title this season. In-di-ana.
And when did an era exist where more than "a small percentage of teams" were legit title contenders? This is all more nostalgia than it is actual history.
They did because they have a billionaire pumping unprecedented amounts of money into building their roster.
As for that era, you ignored 2023 when two mid-majors made the final four. Or when Butler made two straight title games. When VCU, Loyola-Chicago (beating a 7 and a 9 in the rounds of 16 and 8) and George Mason made the Final Four, when A-10 St. Joe's and Xavier were both last-second shots away from making it, when Oral Roberts, Oregon State, FCGU and Lasalle made runs to the second weekend, those years.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 29, 2026, 11:06:41 AMYou picked one game. One. LOL.
https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/2026-ncaa-tournament-tv-ratings-212311356.html
Ratings up across the board. Ratings up in the regular season. People want to watch good basketball. NIL and the portal is helping that.
Sure Nil and the portal is good for college basketball, but for the most part the Big East did not play "good" basketball this season. This off season will tell us a lot if this new era in college ball is good for Marquette and the league, and if we are actually a P5 conference or just another mid major conference due to our baked-in financial disadvantage.
Quote from: Billy Hoyle on March 29, 2026, 11:29:54 AMThey did because they have a billionaire pumping unprecedented amounts of money into building their roster.
As for that era, you ignored 2023 when two mid-majors made the final four. Or when Butler made two straight title games. When VCU, Loyola-Chicago (beating a 7 and a 9 in the rounds of 16 and 8) and George Mason made the Final Four, when A-10 St. Joe's and Xavier were both last-second shots away from making it, when Oral Roberts, Oregon State, FCGU and Lasalle made runs to the second weekend, those years.
Siena had a double-digit lead over Duke and almost won the game. High Point took out the Weasels and had a late lead over Arkansas. Kansas almost blew a 26-point lead to Cal Baptist. VCU came from a mile down to beat North Carolina. Santa Clara would have beaten Kentucky if not for a lucky 35-foot heave at the end of regulation.
So no, none of those mid-majors got to the Sweet 16 or beyond, but they provided a lot of excitement in the first round before the P5 teams took over to give us a lot of outstanding basketball games. I know that's not good enough for you, but I've thoroughly enjoyed the tournament.
Yeah this Michigan 22 point halftime lead is so much more enjoyable than FAU/Kansas State Loyola/Miami ever were.
Quote from: Billy Hoyle on March 29, 2026, 02:29:47 PMYeah this Michigan 22 point halftime lead is so much more enjoyable than FAU/Kansas State Loyola/Miami ever were.
Man, that's not even a GOOD strawman argument.
Bad basketball games happen regularly in the tournament. It has nothing to do with mid-majors though.
I'm very pro- Labor, but I also think the current free agency system in college is a long term problem for the sports. There is something (especially in college) about having a connection and watching the same players for a couple of years.
I'm looking forward to Zona/Michigan.
Quote from: Billy Hoyle on March 29, 2026, 02:29:47 PMYeah this Michigan 22 point halftime lead is so much more enjoyable than FAU/Kansas State Loyola/Miami ever were.
Iowa State not having Jefferson changed that dynamic more than upsets not happening
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 29, 2026, 03:33:52 PMI'm looking forward to Zona/Michigan.
Could be the real natty game......
Imagine how sweet things would be for Dusty May if he were at a blueblood instead of slumming it at Michigan. He might even be able to get to a Final Four!
Been busy today and forgot that the first game takes place earlier in the afternoon. Just seeing now the final score and all I have to say is wow.
Feels kind of wrong, but I've been here before. I want UCONN to win it all. #BEastBrothers
The big is SOOO lucky this Uconn team didn't lose to Furman.
Ouch. Not sure how that wasn't an offensive foul on Boozer. WTF?
I didn't think much of Taris Reed last year, but he is very much improved. Having a good game today.
Quote from: Spaniel with a Short Tail on March 29, 2026, 06:04:55 PMI didn't think much of Taris Reed last year, but he is very much improved. Having a good game today.
He's been unreal in the tournament.
Why in the world did UCONN burn 15 secs???
I guess that's why!!!! Holy fk!!
Wow
Revenge for that loss to Duke 30 years ago.
Gonna be a rough night for Scheyer and Duke fans!! Wow, just wow!!!
Winners win. Wow, what a comeback.
That is just sweet! Wow!
Incredible choke but incredible shot too. Too bad Hurley is on the winning side of this.
UConn is inevitable.
Quote from: Spaniel with a Short Tail on March 29, 2026, 06:04:55 PMI didn't think much of Taris Reed last year, but he is very much improved. Having a good game today.
He'll be most outstanding player of tournament hands down if they go on to win it all
Quote from: HutchwasClutch on March 29, 2026, 06:26:41 PMHe'll be most outstanding player of tournament hands down if they go on to win it all
Tell that to Hardon Alumni
Too bad the tournament has been ruined. Would much rather have seen Sienna get blown out by 30 there. Gotta love the try hard underdogs - and Norman Rockwell.
What's also incredible to me is UCONN burned like 16 secs, down 3, with 27 secs left. Not exactly ideal. Among amazing tournament wins, this is way up there.
Another collapse from Scheyer. As if the Houston game wasn't bad enough last year.
A 19 point lead, out the window.
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on March 29, 2026, 06:35:59 PMAnother collapse from Scheyer. As if the Houston game wasn't bad enough last year.
A 19 point lead, out the window.
This one is going to enrage Duke fans! :)
Quote from: MUDPT on March 29, 2026, 02:43:05 PMI'm very pro- Labor, but I also think the current free agency system in college is a long term problem for the sports. There is something (especially in college) about having a connection and watching the same players for a couple of years.
Ratings suggest otherwise. And the fact that people continue investing their money in it.
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 29, 2026, 06:35:36 PMWhat's also incredible to me is UCONN burned like 16 secs, down 3, with 27 secs left. Not exactly ideal. Among amazing tournament wins, this is way up there.
Hurley is still a dick. Got to admit he sure as hell has widened the gap over Shaka though.
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 29, 2026, 06:43:19 PMThis one is going to enrage Duke fans! :)
Screw Duke. They usually get 2 to 3 top 20 players most years. So screw them.
Would it be a stretch to say that was the second greatest shot in March Madness history, especially given that UConn trailed by 19?
As someone who placed money on Duke, Arizona, and Michigan all reaching the Final Four before the tourney, this was an absolutely insane way to lose that bet. Kudos to UConn.
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on March 29, 2026, 06:35:59 PMAnother collapse from Scheyer. As if the Houston game wasn't bad enough last year.
A 19 point lead, out the window.
On the last play, I don't blame Scheyer at all. His team was prepared, got the ball inbounds flawlessly, moved it crisply. The little Boozer just totally f&cked up.
If anything, Scheyer's team executed better than Hurley's on the final 30 seconds - until little Boozer choked.
Quote from: K1 Lover on March 29, 2026, 06:59:58 PMWould it be a stretch to say that was the second greatest shot in March Madness history, especially given that UConn trailed by 19?
I know Villanova hit that shot to win the whole thing, but they were tied. And the massive comeback and the length of that shot really makes me consider it for the top spot.
Quote from: MU82 on March 29, 2026, 07:02:13 PMOn the last play, I don't blame Scheyer at all. His team was prepared, got the ball inbounds flawlessly, moved it crisply. The little Boozer just totally f&cked up.
If anything, Scheyer's team executed better than Hurley's on the final 30 seconds - until little Boozer choked.
I don't know about that. I mean you can't saying his team was prepared, only to have someone turn it over on a bonehead play.
Contrast that to UConn who executed better by creating the turnover and crisply moved the ball to get an open look.
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on March 29, 2026, 06:35:59 PMAnother collapse from Scheyer. As if the Houston game wasn't bad enough last year.
A 19 point lead, out the window.
Great news for my "Scheyer Can't Coach" agenda.
Bad news for the ever widening G-A-P.
Tons of blame to go around for a collapse like that to happen, but Isaiah Evans deciding not to play defense on the last shot is a tough look.
UCONN looked great down the stretch. Can't believe we beat them.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 29, 2026, 07:07:24 PMI don't know about that. I mean you can't saying his team was prepared, only to have someone turn it over on a bonehead play.
Contrast that to UConn who executed better by creating the turnover and crisply moved the ball to get an open look.
I guess UConn created the turnover, even though Duke got the ball exactly where they wanted. But sometimes the player just has to not be a moron.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 29, 2026, 07:03:40 PMI know Villanova hit that shot to win the whole thing, but they were tied. And the massive comeback and the length of that shot really makes me consider it for the top spot.
Have you heard of Christian Laettner?
Quote from: wadesworld on March 29, 2026, 06:57:11 PMRatings suggest otherwise. And the fact that people continue investing their money in it.
As long as you get big state schools and blue bloods in the finals, the ratings should be good. They have large followings. People other than the relatively small alumni base of a private school or mid majors and relatively die hard fans don't care about mid majors or private schools not named Duke. It is to the network's benefit not to have mid majors and private schools in the tournament. An exception to that general statement is if the private school has Larry Bird, which is far less likely to happen in today's environment.
Quote from: Billy Hoyle on March 29, 2026, 07:21:07 PMHave you heard of Christian Laettner?
Yes. This was well better than that. As was Nova's.
Quote from: MU82 on March 29, 2026, 07:02:13 PMOn the last play, I don't blame Scheyer at all. His team was prepared, got the ball inbounds flawlessly, moved it crisply. The little Boozer just totally f&cked up.
If anything, Scheyer's team executed better than Hurley's on the final 30 seconds - until little Boozer choked.
Agreed. All he had to do was hold the ball. He panicked, because they absolutely had the game in the palm of their hands, literally.
This is funny:
https://x.com/sickoscommittee/status/2038400792512618646?s=46
Three years in a row, Duke blows a lead in the tournament.
https://x.com/i/status/2038407342518091854
Pretty on-brand for a Dookie to think they should have called a tech there.
Quote from: willie warrior on March 29, 2026, 06:58:27 PMHurley is still a dick. Got to admit he sure as hell has widened the gap over Shaka though.
I think he's the best coach in the game right now, so I feel he's widening the gap on most.
Quote from: cheebs09 on March 29, 2026, 07:57:02 PMI think he's the best coach in the game right now, so I feel he's widening the gap on most.
There is no place for logic at this funeral for MU basketball.
Toss your shovel of dirt on the casket and kindly move on.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 29, 2026, 07:35:49 PMPretty on-brand for a Dookie to think they should have called a tech there.
You're kidding yourself if you don't think there would be Scoopers saying the same.
We've still got people complaining about Duke Brennan's elbow.
Gotta give Karaban some credit. No one would have faulted the senior for taking the last shot with time winding down, but he had Boozer right in front of him. Made the smart and correct basketball play passing to the freshman. Well done.
Quote from: K1 Lover on March 29, 2026, 06:59:58 PMWould it be a stretch to say that was the second greatest shot in March Madness history, especially given that UConn trailed by 19?
As someone who placed money on Duke, Arizona, and Michigan all reaching the Final Four before the tourney, this was an absolutely insane way to lose that bet. Kudos to UConn.
Yeah, it would be a stretch. There are plenty of candidates.
Quote from: K1 Lover on March 29, 2026, 06:59:58 PMWould it be a stretch to say that was the second greatest shot in March Madness history, especially given that UConn trailed by 19?
As someone who placed money on Duke, Arizona, and Michigan all reaching the Final Four before the tourney, this was an absolutely insane way to lose that bet. Kudos to UConn.
A distant second after Whitehead.
https://x.com/i/status/2038426808576565523
Scheyer very clearly pointing for Boozer to pass the ball ahead. Just let them foul you. There was no risk of over and back, no risk of a 10 second call. Another pass was just too risky. Let them foul you and go end it at the line.
Silly pass. Silly that Scheyer wanted him to pass. Just a silly ending. Good for UConn yet again!
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on March 29, 2026, 09:31:52 PMhttps://x.com/i/status/2038426808576565523
Scheyer very clearly pointing for Boozer to pass the ball ahead. Just let them foul you. There was no risk of over and back, no risk of a 10 second call. Another pass was just too risky. Let them foul you and go end it at the line.
Silly pass. Silly that Scheyer wanted him to pass. Just a silly ending. Good for UConn yet again!
You're not wrong that he could have held onto the ball. But literally all Boozer had to do was throw the ball one foot higher than he did, and the game was over. And we're talking about how UConn again got almost nothing from Ball and Mullins - and Karaban, too.
Quote from: MU82 on March 29, 2026, 07:02:13 PMOn the last play, I don't blame Scheyer at all. His team was prepared, got the ball inbounds flawlessly, moved it crisply. The little Boozer just totally f&cked up.
If anything, Scheyer's team executed better than Hurley's on the final 30 seconds - until little Boozer choked.
I mean there's no question imo UCONN executed poorly with the ball down 3. As for the turnover? I think you protect the ball with the dribble in that spot and wait for the foul. This is where a premier ball-handler like a Muggsy or Kyrie is exceededingly valuable. Duke didn't really have one. By all accounts Muggsy couldn't be pressed. :)
"I ruined our team's season," Boozer said, his eyes bloodshot from the tears he had shed. "That's the best I can put it."
I actually feel for the kid because this is how many will remember him forever. He had a hell of a first half to help Duke take its big lead, and even in the end he finished with as many points as Ball and Karaban combined. But that ending ... oy. I just hope he doesn't get death threats; some people are so deranged.
Quote from: MU82 on March 29, 2026, 09:37:01 PMYou're not wrong that he could have held onto the ball. But literally all Boozer had to do was throw the ball one foot higher than he did, and the game was over. And we're talking about how UConn again got almost nothing from Ball and Mullins - and Karaban, too.
Sure, but he didn't. A pass is certainly riskier than allowing yourself to be fouled there.
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on March 29, 2026, 10:14:52 PMSure, but he didn't. A pass is certainly riskier than allowing yourself to be fouled there.
It was instinct. He had two teammates wide open for a game-sealing dunk.
Duke had 44 points with 4 mins left in the 1st half. They proceeded to get 28 total points the final 24 mins of the game. And I think in both halves they got diddly squat in the final 4 mins.
Oh...I forgot Boozer made a shot to extend the lead to 3.
Quote from: cheebs09 on March 29, 2026, 07:57:02 PMI think he's the best coach in the game right now, so I feel he's widening the gap on most.
Especially MU and rest of BEast, except St. Johns
Quote from: MU82 on March 29, 2026, 09:37:01 PMYou're not wrong that he could have held onto the ball. But literally all Boozer had to do was throw the ball one foot higher than he did, and the game was over. And we're talking about how UConn again got almost nothing from Ball and Mullins - and Karaban, too.
You're really carrying a lot of water for a coach whose teams crashed in spectacular fashion in back-to-back seasons. It's strange.
Some credit to Hurley for his coaching on how to defend the Duke press break in a late game situation. Those two players were not in front of Boozer by accident. That must have been rehearsed against the scout team a few times.
Don't have to like him... but credit where credit is due.
Kris Jenkins buzzer beater 3 against UNC is, to me, #1 on the list.
Quote from: ATL MU Warrior on March 30, 2026, 06:54:13 AMKris Jenkins buzzer beater 3 against UNC is, to me, #1 on the list.
The difference to me is that if Jenkins misses, the game goes to OT and Villanova still has a good chance of winning that game. If Mullins misses, it's game over and UConn goes home.
Plus, Jenkins' shot came out of a time out with Nova having a chance to set up a play, not the wild circumstances of Mullins' shot.
Still, the obvious choice here (IMO) is Lorenzo Charles' dunk to beat Phi Slamma Jamma in 1983.
Quote from: Pakuni on March 30, 2026, 07:29:08 AMThe difference to me is that if Jenkins misses, the game goes to OT and Villanova still has a good chance of winning that game. If Mullins misses, it's game over and UConn goes home.
Plus, Jenkins' shot came out of a time out with Nova having a chance to set up a play, not the wild circumstances of Mullins' shot.
Still, the obvious choice here (IMO) is Lorenzo Charles' dunk to beat Phi Slamma Jamma in 1983.
How about Jerome Whitehead receiving Butch Lee's full court Hail Mary pass and bank shot with 3 second left to beat UNC Charlotte? Stuffing the basket was banned for 10 years by the NCAA starting in '76-'77. May not be the #1 but it is sure up there.
Quote from: Pakuni on March 30, 2026, 07:29:08 AMThe difference to me is that if Jenkins misses, the game goes to OT and Villanova still has a good chance of winning that game. If Mullins misses, it's game over and UConn goes home.
Plus, Jenkins' shot came out of a time out with Nova having a chance to set up a play, not the wild circumstances of Mullins' shot.
Still, the obvious choice here (IMO) is Lorenzo Charles' dunk to beat Phi Slamma Jamma in 1983.
Well, that was also a tie game, but yeah the frenetic circumstances at the end were similar.
Quote from: willie warrior on March 30, 2026, 03:53:33 AMEspecially MU and rest of BEast, except St. Johns
I said we should have hired Pitino over Shaka but you pearl clutched acting like Al didn't cheat his entire time at Marquette
Quote from: The Sultan on March 30, 2026, 07:48:44 AMWell, that was also a tie game, but yeah the frenetic circumstances at the end were similar.
I thought of that, and it's a fair point. But given the circumstances and aftermath, I can't think of a more memorable and replayed moment from tournament history.
Quote from: muwarrior69 on March 30, 2026, 07:46:08 AMHow about Jerome Whitehead receiving Butch Lee's full court Hail Mary pass and bank shot with 3 second left to beat UNC Charlotte? Stuffing the basket was banned for 10 years by the NCAA starting in '76-'77. May not be the #1 but it is sure up there.
Yeah, can't believe I didn't think of that one. To me, regardless of other circumstances, any last second shot to win a championship >>> a last second shot to advance to next round.
Quote from: ATL MU Warrior on March 30, 2026, 06:54:13 AMKris Jenkins buzzer beater 3 against UNC is, to me, #1 on the list.
To me, it's Laettner then everybody else. The entire play was a masterclass: the pass, the fake, the turnaround, and the shot, everything had to be perfect. It also capped off the greatest NCAA tourney game of all time (10 ties, 13 lead changes, 5 in the last 31 seconds of OT.
And the capper: Verne Lunquist on the call, his "yesssssss," then silence. Absolutely perfect.
https://x.com/TDISportsClips/status/1905827810213544348
Then there is the U.S. Reed's shot to beat defending champion Louisville in the second round.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HtJv6Va6ShU
March 14, 1981 is probably the day where "March Madness" was created. Not only with this shot, but number one seeds DePaul (to St. Joseph's) and Oregon State (to Kansas State) lost on last second shots. Also an upstart UAB program beat #2 seed Kentucky that day as well.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 30, 2026, 09:11:26 AMThen there is the U.S. Reed's shot to beat defending champion Louisville in the second round.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HtJv6Va6ShU
March 14, 1981 is probably the day where "March Madness" was created. Not only with this shot, but number one seeds DePaul (to St. Joseph's) and Oregon State (to Kansas State) lost on last second shots. Also an upstart UAB program beat #2 seed Kentucky that day as well.
And four days later was Danny Ainge's coast-to-coast layup at the buzzer to beat #2, Notre Dame.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j7B7HA-1hu4
Chioza's shot will always be #1 for me. A floater from 3 point range to knock out the Badgers.
Suggs's half court shot in the national semifinals to continue an undefeated season is up there, but behind Chioza, Jenkins, Laettner.
Quote from: wadesworld on March 30, 2026, 10:20:54 AMChioza's shot will always be #1 for me. A floater from 3 point range to knock out the Badgers.
Suggs's half court shot in the national semifinals to continue an undefeated season is up there, but behind Chioza, Jenkins, Laettner.
Literally seconds after Ben Brust joyfully tweeted, "we just have to beat South Carolina to make a Final 4?!?"
Bryce Drew's shot was a model of execution: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=U3qpzl3YYeM&pp=ygUYYnJ5Y2UgZHJldyBidXp6ZXIgYmVhdGVy
I remember watching the games when Reed hit shot. I believe the early rounds were on ESPN at that time. Am I remembering that correctly?
Quote from: Zog from Margo on March 30, 2026, 10:27:57 AMBryce Drew's shot was a model of execution: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=U3qpzl3YYeM&pp=ygUYYnJ5Y2UgZHJldyBidXp6ZXIgYmVhdGVy
I remember watching the games when Reed hit shot. I believe the early rounds were on ESPN at that time. Am I remembering that correctly?
First round Thursday and Friday games weren't televised back then.
The 1981 shot linked above was for sure on NBC. It was a Saturday. CBS acquired the rights in 1982, and agreed to televise first round games, which they subbed out to ESPN for the first few years.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 30, 2026, 10:34:20 AMFirst round Thursday and Friday games weren't televised back then.
The 1981 shot linked above was for sure on NBC. It was a Saturday. CBS acquired the rights in 1982, and agreed to televise first round games, which they subbed out to ESPN for the first few years.
Thanks!
https://www.reddit.com/r/CollegeBasketball/comments/1s7gm7t/dan_hurleys_interaction_with_the_ref_after/
Is this AI? I've seen it posted by multiple accounts, so I don't think so, but WTF? What is he doing?
The shots that stand out to me were those by Whitehead, Ainge, Laettner, Drew and Jenkins.
I actually had the latter two in my playbook when I coached - I very originally called them "Valpo" and "Nova" - and my middle-schoolers ran Valpo to perfection to beat the halftime buzzer in a blowout win. Never got to try Nova in a game.
Quote from: MU82 on March 30, 2026, 11:11:17 AMThe shots that stand out to me were those by Whitehead, Ainge, Laettner, Drew and Jenkins.
I actually had the latter two in my playbook when I coached - I very originally called them "Valpo" and "Nova" - and my middle-schoolers ran Valpo to perfection to beat the halftime buzzer in a blowout win. Never got to try Nova in a game.
I tried running the Bryce Drew play when my HS AAU team was down 2 with 3 seconds left and had to go the length of the court. It didn't work; we didn't even get a shot off, LOL!
Quote from: wadesworld on March 30, 2026, 11:04:49 AMhttps://www.reddit.com/r/CollegeBasketball/comments/1s7gm7t/dan_hurleys_interaction_with_the_ref_after/
Is this AI? I've seen it posted by multiple accounts, so I don't think so, but WTF? What is he doing?
I thought it was AI because I'd seen a number of videos of coaches fighting in the handshake line that were AI. However, the fact no one is calling this out as AI makes me wonder if it is real.
Not AI.
Here's the full clip.
https://x.com/i/status/2038461319003689230
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on March 30, 2026, 11:18:04 AMNot AI.
Here's the full clip.
https://x.com/i/status/2038461319003689230
That seems like more than a stare down. I like Hurley, but boy that is about as dumb as it could possibly get. Just about the only chance you have to not win at that point is letting the refs call a technical foul somewhere.
He was talking and laughing with that same ref earlier. It was fine.
Quote from: wadesworld on March 30, 2026, 11:26:25 AMThat seems like more than a stare down. I like Hurley, but boy that is about as dumb as it could possibly get. Just about the only chance you have to not win at that point is letting the refs call a technical foul somewhere.
Almost like he is just testing his limits or daring guys to call a T in a spot like that.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 30, 2026, 11:31:58 AMHe was talking and laughing with that same ref earlier. It was fine.
Probably but that ref didn't seem to be laughing in that moment lol.
It was very strange.
Some thought the ref was saying something and both leaned in. Not sure if the ref was telling him they were reviewing time.
Not sure that's how I'd celebrate but it didn't seem too bad. Especially if the ref was talking to him.
Quote from: wadesworld on March 30, 2026, 11:26:25 AMThat seems like more than a stare down. I like Hurley, but boy that is about as dumb as it could possibly get. Just about the only chance you have to not win at that point is letting the refs call a technical foul somewhere.
I don't get what he was supposed to do. The ref walked up to him to say something, not vice versa.
Hurley, probably for the first time in his career, kept his mouth shut.
It seems to me that given his history, opening his mouth to say literally anything would have dramatically raised the possibility of a technical.
Quote from: The Equalizer on March 30, 2026, 11:52:56 AMI don't get what he was supposed to do. The ref walked up to him to say something, not vice versa.
Hurley, probably for the first time in his career, kept his mouth shut.
It seems to me that given his history, opening his mouth to say literally anything would have dramatically raised the possibility of a technical.
The ref walked up to him to let him know they were checking the time. Hurley went nose to nose with him and stared him down as he walked away.
I don't know what was said before this but at the very least it is just a strange reaction from Hurley. He's a goofball with a short fuse and a gigantic ego.
(And I'm not saying that necessarily bad as a college basketball coach. But he's crazy lol)
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on March 30, 2026, 12:00:45 PMHe's a goofball with a short fuse and a gigantic ego.
Maybe more Scoopers should get into coaching??
Quote from: Jay Bee on March 30, 2026, 12:02:38 PMMaybe more Scoopers should get into coaching??
The people he's referring to are dentists and aren't allowed around children
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on March 30, 2026, 11:18:04 AMNot AI.
Here's the full clip.
https://x.com/i/status/2038461319003689230
Unless you are a Duke radio announcer there is nothing to see here.
Quote from: muwarrior69 on March 30, 2026, 09:05:55 PMUnless you are a Duke radio announcer there is nothing to see here.
I've never heard of Hurley getting close to refs. 8-)
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on March 30, 2026, 12:00:45 PMThe ref walked up to him to let him know they were checking the time. Hurley went nose to nose with him and stared him down as he walked away.
I don't know what was said before this but at the very least it is just a strange reaction from Hurley. He's a goofball with a short fuse and a gigantic ego.
(And I'm not saying that necessarily bad as a college basketball coach. But he's crazy lol)
Roger Ayers is a Big East regular that Hurley is familiar with. That was moments after the Mullins shot and it was probably rather loud. I think people are making way too much of nothing.
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on March 30, 2026, 12:00:45 PMThe ref walked up to him to let him know they were checking the time. Hurley went nose to nose with him and stared him down as he walked away.
I don't know what was said before this but at the very least it is just a strange reaction from Hurley. He's a goofball with a short fuse and a gigantic ego.
(And I'm not saying that necessarily bad as a college basketball coach. But he's crazy lol)
I saw today that someone asked the Ayers about it either after the game or later on and he didn't even recall the interaction, aka it wasn't heated or abnormal or uncomfortable. And Hurley was likely on a massive adrenaline dump that he made him kind of spacey in the immediate aftermath.
Its not the most popular of opinions outside of Storrs, but Ive actually grown to like Hurley. Don't get me wrong, he's an absolute lunatic on the sideline, but I think he's otherwise unproblematic, its not like he's not Bobby Knight. He's 100% authentic and unfiltered. Never falls into robotic/generic coachspeak that is so common in the sport. No off the court issues. By and large, he's complementary and respectful/supportive of other Big East coaches and programs (he's always been one of the best quotes/perspectives on what Shaka has done at Marquette, IMO).
He's arrogant and has a huge ego. Of course he does. But I find it really hard to have an issue with that in a coach when he has 3 FFs and 2 nattys in 8 years as a major college coach, much less only 15 years removed from being a high school coach.
Loudmouthed coach from NJ with an ego who backs it all up? Al would love him if he was still alive, as a coaching peer or as an announcer.
Quote from: JWags85 on March 30, 2026, 09:42:24 PMBy and large, he's complementary and respectful/supportive of other Big East coaches and programs
*complimentary
Quote from: brewcity77 on March 30, 2026, 09:22:26 PMRoger Ayers is a Big East regular that Hurley is familiar with. That was moments after the Mullins shot and it was probably rather loud. I think people are making way too much of nothing.
Wrong. Hurley is a dick.
Quote from: willie warrior on March 31, 2026, 05:52:15 AMWrong. Hurley is a dick.
So was Al McGuire and Hurley is twice the coach
Yeah, willie's praise of Al and bashing of Hurley is really something. He isn't smart enough to realize that Hurley is basically Al reincarnated.
And yes, he's a better coach too.
Quote from: Uncle Rico on March 31, 2026, 07:07:39 AMSo was Al McGuire and Hurley is twice the coach
(https://i.makeagif.com/media/9-25-2017/1eb5tz.gif)
Quote from: The Sultan on March 31, 2026, 08:05:27 AMYeah, willie's praise of Al and bashing of Hurley is really something. He isn't smart enough to realize that Hurley is basically Al reincarnated.
And yes, he's a better coach too.
And what's even more amusing is that's not a slight to Al at all. Of all the coaches that won multiple titles, Hurley is the only one other than Knight who did it within 15 years of being a HC. And Knight is also the only other who did it within 5 years of starting at the title winning program/first "big" job. And you'll have a tough argument not having Knight as a top 5 college coach.
I'd be shocked if Hurley doesn't get a 3rd eventually. If he does, he's in heady air real quick. If he does it this year, giving him 3 in 4, or even in the next 6 years to give him 3 in 10. He's knocking on the door of Mount Rushmore talks, regardless of whether or not you think he's an ass
Quote from: JWags85 on March 31, 2026, 09:34:53 AMAnd what's even more amusing is that's not a slight to Al at all. Of all the coaches that won multiple titles, Hurley is the only one other than Knight who did it within 15 years of being a HC. And Knight is also the only other who did it within 5 years of starting at the title winning program/first "big" job. And you'll have a tough argument not having Knight as a top 5 college coach.
I'd be shocked if Hurley doesn't get a 3rd eventually. If he does, he's in heady air real quick. If he does it this year, giving him 3 in 4, or even in the next 6 years to give him 3 in 10. He's knocking on the door of Mount Rushmore talks, regardless of whether or not you think he's an ass
On the sidelines, he's an ass to the officials and sometimes to reporters, but he also respects other coaches and programs, and his players love him. He also isn't involved in any off-the-court issues.
For anyone who read "The Miracle of St. Anthony's" about his dad they'd see what an "ass" his dad was as a coach...while inspiring incredible loyalty from those kids. I'd gladly take an "ass" like Hurley over a Will Wade or Kelvin Sampson any day.
Hurley is an interesting guy. Players love him, he gets along well with other coaches, and his teams are wildly successful. Yet, he has this flaw in his personality that makes act sort of childish sometimes during games and detracts from an otherwise great coaching career. He is a bit like Bobby Knight, but I don't think he really compares to Knight for temper tantrums. Plus, Knight's players were scared of him. That certainly does not seem to be the case with Hurley.
I admire and respect Hurley 98% of the time. During games, he has a punchable face.
Quote from: tower912 on March 31, 2026, 10:07:13 AMI admire and respect Hurley 98% of the time. During games, he has a punchable face.
Well said
Reeker slurping the Dick Hurley while sneering at the fact that he has widened the gap between UConn and MU is the height of hypocrisy. But what else would you expect from a smug narcissist?
Quote from: willie warrior on March 31, 2026, 12:02:51 PMReeker slurping the Dick Hurley while sneering at the fact that he has widened the gap between UConn and MU is the height of hypocrisy. But what else would you expect from a smug narcissist?
FACT: National championships, Hurley 2, Al 1
FACT: Final 4's, Hurley 3, Al 2
And Hurley is doing it when the game is far better and more difficult. He isn't going against plumbers and dentists.
Also, Hurley has yet to get ejected from a tournament game, so Al has that on him, I suppose
Quote from: Uncle Rico on March 31, 2026, 12:05:16 PMFACT: National championships, Hurley 2, Al 1
FACT: Final 4's, Hurley 3, Al 2
And Hurley is doing it when the game is far better and more difficult. He isn't going against plumbers and dentists.
Also, Hurley has yet to get ejected from a tournament game, so Al has that on him, I suppose
NIT titles: Al 1 Hurley 0
Hurley just doesn't have the balls to go to the NIT!
Quote from: Uncle Rico on March 31, 2026, 12:05:16 PMFACT: National championships, Hurley 2, Al 1
FACT: Final 4's, Hurley 3, Al 2
And Hurley is doing it when the game is far better and more difficult. He isn't going against plumbers and dentists.
Also, Hurley has yet to get ejected from a tournament game, so Al has that on him, I suppose
joyless willie's Marquette degree would be going to waste ... if MU would have admitted him.
Hurley's mom's reaction to the winning shot is priceless. And explains some things....lol
Quote from: StillAWarrior on March 31, 2026, 04:49:10 PMHurley's mom's reaction to the winning shot is priceless. And explains some things....lol
I did not know Hurley's mom married Mike Pence.
Quote from: JWags85 on March 31, 2026, 09:34:53 AMAnd what's even more amusing is that's not a slight to Al at all. Of all the coaches that won multiple titles, Hurley is the only one other than Knight who did it within 15 years of being a HC. And Knight is also the only other who did it within 5 years of starting at the title winning program/first "big" job. And you'll have a tough argument not having Knight as a top 5 college coach.
I'd be shocked if Hurley doesn't get a 3rd eventually. If he does, he's in heady air real quick. If he does it this year, giving him 3 in 4, or even in the next 6 years to give him 3 in 10. He's knocking on the door of Mount Rushmore talks, regardless of whether or not you think he's an ass
Yes. The gap widens. Now enter Reeker with some snide condescending response. Willie lives rent free in Reekers gourd, and it is grand. Hope to see somebody post one of his comments that there is no widening gap, which he had to take an embarrassed sabbatical from Scoop. Big bloop on his part. And now he is raving about Hurley. And Hurley is still a dick. That probably explains why Reeker is now infatuated with the Dick.
Quote from: willie warrior on April 04, 2026, 07:39:05 AMYes. The gap widens. Now enter Reeker with some snide condescending response. Willie lives rent free in Reekers gourd, and it is grand. Hope to see somebody post one of his comments that there is no widening gap, which he had to take an embarrassed sabbatical from Scoop. Big bloop on his part. And now he is raving about Hurley. And Hurley is still a dick. That probably explains why Reeker is now infatuated with the Dick.
Someone hit the bottomless mimosas HARD this morning.
Quote from: willie warrior on April 04, 2026, 07:39:05 AMYes. The gap widens. Now enter Reeker with some snide condescending response. Willie lives rent free in Reekers gourd, and it is grand. Hope to see somebody post one of his comments that there is no widening gap, which he had to take an embarrassed sabbatical from Scoop. Big bloop on his part. And now he is raving about Hurley. And Hurley is still a dick. That probably explains why Reeker is now infatuated with the Dick.
Seek help, joyless willie.
Willie, the neighbor's chihuahua.
Who ya got?
I have a terrible feeling it will be Illinois and Michigan.
Reed has been superb. Power hoops isn't dead.
I had this weird thought that MU beat the team currently leading a National Semifinal game. That couldn't have happened.
The Illinois game plan should just be to let Demery and Ball chuck away from three.
Quote from: MUEng92 on April 04, 2026, 05:34:20 PMI had this weird thought that MU beat the team currently leading a National Semifinal game. That couldn't have happened.
MU outplayed UCONN. :)
Quote from: Billy Hoyle on April 04, 2026, 05:45:06 PMThe Illinois game plan should just be to let Demery and Ball chuck away from three.
They've been abysmal. As has Karaban.
UCONN has been a complete disaster after going up 18-9. I think they're 1-13 since then? WTF?
Everyone has been abysmal from deep on both sides besides Ross and Mullins.
"Hey guys. I have a great idea. After playing 37 games in 5,000-17,000 seat basketball arenas, let's put our marquee event that crowns a champion in 80,000 seat football stadiums on elevated floors, and to top it off, with basketballs nobody uses all year!"
Quote from: wadesworld on April 04, 2026, 05:51:12 PMEveryone has been abysmal from deep on both sides besides Ross and Mullins.
"Hey guys. I have a great idea. After playing 37 games in 5,000-17,000 seat basketball arenas, let's put our marquee event that crowns a champion in 80,000 seat football stadiums on elevated floors, and to top it off, with basketballs nobody uses all year!"
Fair point ww.
Would you take Acuff over Wagler?
Mullins hits an iconic shot in the Elite 8 and is now balling out in the Final Four. Welcome to the Milwaukee Bucks, buddy.
Quote from: wadesworld on April 04, 2026, 05:51:12 PMEveryone has been abysmal from deep on both sides besides Ross and Mullins.
"Hey guys. I have a great idea. After playing 37 games in 5,000-17,000 seat basketball arenas, let's put our marquee event that crowns a champion in 80,000 seat football stadiums on elevated floors, and to top it off, with basketballs nobody uses all year!"
Domes statistically don't impact three point shooting.
https://fivethirtyeight.com/features/the-dome-effect-isnt-real-the-nrg-effect-is-complicated/
UCONN read Scoop during the 4 min time-out.
Quote from: wadesworld on April 04, 2026, 05:57:08 PMYes.
Very 50/50 on that one but I lean Acuff. Wagler may have the higher ceiling.
Quote from: MuggsyB on April 04, 2026, 05:53:15 PMWould you take Acuff over Wagler?
Wagler.
Acuff couldn't defend my grandma, and she's been dead for 5 years.
Quote from: wadesworld on April 04, 2026, 05:51:12 PMEveryone has been abysmal from deep on both sides besides Ross and Mullins.
"Hey guys. I have a great idea. After playing 37 games in 5,000-17,000 seat basketball arenas, let's put our marquee event that crowns a champion in 80,000 seat football stadiums on elevated floors, and to top it off, with basketballs nobody uses all year!"
This pairs well with a hilarious tweet I just saw.
https://x.com/theconnorpils/status/2040536378237235692?s=46
Quote from: Juan Anderson's Mixtape on April 04, 2026, 06:16:02 PMWagler.
Acuff couldn't defend my grandma, and she's been dead for 5 years.
My condolences.
Quote from: K1 Lover on April 04, 2026, 06:17:47 PMThis pairs well with a hilarious tweet I just saw.
https://x.com/theconnorpils/status/2040536378237235692?s=46
Haha that's pretty good.
Boneheaded possessions hurting UCONN. They could have extended to 15+.
Muggsy, going back to the Duke game, UConn just went 37 minutes of game play at the highest level against phenomenal opponents without a turnover.
Take a deep breath.
Illinois earned their spot in the final four, too.
Quote from: tower912 on April 04, 2026, 06:48:18 PMMuggsy, going back to the Duke game, UConn just went 37 minutes of game play at the highest level against phenomenal opponents without a turnover.
Take a deep breath.
Illinois isn't ball pressuring them. The fact that it's down to 8 is upsetting.
In case people forgot, Nigel was able to blow by UCONN's guards. Illinois doesn't have a guy with Nigel's zoomability.
Terrible decision by Solo Ball on that possession.
Frustrating when a team you are rooting for keeps missing lay ups.
Big-time shot from Mullins.
One down, one to go.
The fact that UCONN is in the title game is absolutely stunning to me having watched them all year. Obviously they were fortunate vs Duke, but you have to give Hurley credit.
Hurley really draws up nice stuff out of timeouts too. I can see why NBA teams are interested. Not sure the personality would fit.
Quote from: The Sultan on April 04, 2026, 07:29:39 PMHurley really draws up nice stuff out of timeouts too. I can see why NBA teams are interested. Not sure the personality would fit.
He's not built for the NBA imo.
Gotta root for Arizona. If Michigan wins, UConn might have PTSD flashbacks of MU kicking their ass and have performance issues.
Blue and gold glasses.
Quote from: tower912 on April 04, 2026, 07:33:58 PMGotta root for Arizona. If Michigan wins, UConn might have PTSD flashbacks of MU kicking their ass and have performance issues.
Everyone outside of the B18 wants the streak to move to 27.
Quote from: MuggsyB on April 04, 2026, 07:40:11 PMEveryone outside of the B18 wants the streak to move to 27.
Many in the B18 would be happy to have the streat move to 27 if it means Michigan not being the one to break it.
UCONN won that game shooting 35%.
Quote from: MuggsyB on April 04, 2026, 07:51:32 PMUCONN won that game shooting 35%.
Illinois lost it shooting 34%
Quote from: MuggsyB on April 04, 2026, 07:28:29 PMThe fact that UCONN is in the title game is absolutely stunning to me having watched them all year. Obviously they were fortunate vs Duke, but you have to give Hurley credit.
The gap widens. Giddyup Shaka.
This sucks - it's like a Super Bowl halftime.
Meh, MU kicked their ass the last time they played.
Quote from: tower912 on April 04, 2026, 07:59:50 PMMeh, MU kicked their ass the last time they played.
MU's returning triumvirate, with just a few additional pieces, is very capable of making some noise in '26-27. I fully expect all three guys to come back vastly improved and with increased tenacity.
Quote from: mileskishnish72 on April 04, 2026, 07:59:28 PMThis sucks - it's like a Super Bowl halftime.
Has this always been the delay between games?
All about the benjamins.
The "Fab 5" is beyond annoying as fk. They won nothing. Absurd.
Quote from: MuggsyB on April 04, 2026, 08:11:36 PMThe "Fab 5" is beyond annoying as fk. They won nothing. Absurd.
They were a lot of fun and accomplished quite a bit.
They made me root for UNC and Duke.
Quote from: The Sultan on April 04, 2026, 08:13:16 PMThey were a lot of fun and accomplished quite a bit.
.
Ya....it's stupid. What other losing team has ever milked this nonsense?
Quote from: MuggsyB on April 04, 2026, 08:15:40 PMYa....it's stupid. What other losing team has ever milked this nonsense?
Starting five freshman back then was unprecedented. And for them to get to title games in those two seasons was considered an amazing accomplishment.
Futhermore they were a cultural phenomenon as much as anything.
Zona with a horrific start. Not ready to play.
Quote from: The Sultan on April 04, 2026, 08:20:49 PMStarting five freshman back then was unprecedented. And for them to get to title games in those two seasons was considered an amazing accomplishment.
Futhermore they were a cultural phenomenon as much as anything.
Who cares? They didn't win.
Quote from: MuggsyB on April 04, 2026, 08:25:37 PMWho cares? They didn't win.
OK. You've decided to be stubborn.
They had an impact on the history of college basketball and the NCAA tournament. If you want to discredit that, go right ahead. But it makes you look dumb.
Quote from: The Sultan on April 04, 2026, 08:29:51 PMOK. You've decided to be stubborn.
They had an impact on the history of college basketball and the NCAA tournament. If you want to discredit that, go right ahead. But it makes you look dumb.
A "cultural phenomenon"? Oh...okay.
Zona better wake up or this could get ugly.
Quote from: MuggsyB on April 04, 2026, 08:25:37 PMWho cares? They didn't win.
Sultan loves a good runner up. It tracks.
Dusty May to Indiana: "I want the job. I want to revive my alma mater."
Indiana: "We're going to run it back one more time with Mike Woodson. But if it doesn't work out we'll keep you in mind."
Quote from: MuggsyB on April 04, 2026, 08:30:54 PMA "cultural phenomenon"? Oh...okay.
Read this...
https://alanpaul.substack.com/p/the-fab-five-how-michigans-freshman
"And just like every new sensation from Elvis to Eminem, there was serious debate about whether the Fab Five represented something creative and wonderful or arrogant and destructive. Their brash confidence, in-your-face trash talking and hip-hop fashion sense were both embraced and attacked like no college sports team before or since. The debate continues to this day, especially in Ann Arbor, where the basketball team struggles along under a cloud of impropriety that dates back to the Fabs' recruitment. But one thing is beyond debate: the Fab Five represented something entirely new, an entire class of blue chip recruits covering every position, each of whom lived up to their top billing."
Oh, and from the same article:
"The familiar voice of Dick Vitale's booms through the phone line, scratchy and emphatic. He may be a bit less frenzied off the air, but Vitale can't contain his excitement when the subject turns to the Fab Five, the heralded freshmen who drove Michigan to consecutive title games in '92 and '93. "This story deserves special acclaim," Vitale says. "I can't tell you how many times I hear coaches say, 'We can't win because we have two freshmen in our rotation.' It's absolutely accepted wisdom and the Fab Five turned it on its head. I think what they did is absolutely unique in the history of basketball and doesn't get the play it deserves."
Quote from: MuggsyB on April 04, 2026, 07:40:11 PMEveryone outside of the B18 wants the streak to move to 27.
I could not care any less.
Wife just informed me she had UConn vs Michigan in her bracket. I hate rooting for Michigan.
She also had High Point over Wisconsin.
34th anniversary today. She once again proves how smart she is.
Nothing better than the Big 12 and Big 10 POYs watching the Final Four game with foul trouble in the Final Four. Love college reffing and rules.
Quote from: Billy Hoyle on April 04, 2026, 08:37:44 PMDusty May to Indiana: "I want the job. I want to revive my alma mater."
Indiana: "We're going to run it back one more time with Mike Woodson. But if it doesn't work out we'll keep you in mind."
Whoops.
Quote from: The Sultan on April 04, 2026, 08:39:35 PMRead this...
https://alanpaul.substack.com/p/the-fab-five-how-michigans-freshman
"And just like every new sensation from Elvis to Eminem, there was serious debate about whether the Fab Five represented something creative and wonderful or arrogant and destructive. Their brash confidence, in-your-face trash talking and hip-hop fashion sense were both embraced and attacked like no college sports team before or since. The debate continues to this day, especially in Ann Arbor, where the basketball team struggles along under a cloud of impropriety that dates back to the Fabs' recruitment. But one thing is beyond debate: the Fab Five represented something entirely new, an entire class of blue chip recruits covering every position, each of whom lived up to their top billing."
Oh, and from the same article:
"The familiar voice of Dick Vitale's booms through the phone line, scratchy and emphatic. He may be a bit less frenzied off the air, but Vitale can't contain his excitement when the subject turns to the Fab Five, the heralded freshmen who drove Michigan to consecutive title games in '92 and '93. "This story deserves special acclaim," Vitale says. "I can't tell you how many times I hear coaches say, 'We can't win because we have two freshmen in our rotation.' It's absolutely accepted wisdom and the Fab Five turned it on its head. I think what they did is absolutely unique in the history of basketball and doesn't get the play it deserves."
I stand corrected. Someone on Substack wrote the Fab 5 was cool. Great. Geckos and Pangolins are cool. Where's their love?
Arizona looks like they been sped up.
Fouls piling up. Fouls no matta when not cashed in.
This is a total meltdown from Arizona.
Yaxel looks done.
Quote from: wadesworld on April 04, 2026, 09:04:39 PMYaxel looks done.
Ya think? Zona not taking advantage.
Mara is completely dominating.
Quote from: tower912 on April 04, 2026, 08:39:55 PMWife just informed me she had UConn vs Michigan in her bracket. I hate rooting for Michigan.
She also had High Point over Wisconsin.
34th anniversary today. She once again proves how smart she is.
(https://media.tenor.com/VJfRyyWiQgMAAAAM/happy-anniversary-love.gif)
Quote from: MuggsyB on April 04, 2026, 09:14:00 PMMara is completely dominating.
3.5 ppg as a freshman at UCLA
6.4 ppg as a sophomore at UCLA
Bruins scoop was probably rooting for him to transfer.
Quote from: Spaniel with a Short Tail on April 04, 2026, 09:15:26 PM(https://media.tenor.com/VJfRyyWiQgMAAAAM/happy-anniversary-love.gif)
Eh?
I was really looking forward to this game. Didn't expect a total dumpster 🔥 from Zona. Terrible basketball.
Michigan is really good.......
Quote from: MuMark on April 04, 2026, 09:40:50 PMMichigan is really good.......
Yes. But this has been an atrocious performance from Zona.
Quote from: MuggsyB on April 04, 2026, 09:46:38 PMYes. But this has been an atrocious performance from Zona.
Sometimes great teams make other good teams play worse than they normally would.......see UCONN 2024......
Absolute Domininance from Zona all year and today they look like an NIT team. crazy
This is bringing back memories of MU in New Orleans.
This is a total beatdown. It's literally like watching some dude at the Y trying to check Nigel on the perimeter. Crazy stuff.
Quote from: wadesworld on April 04, 2026, 08:40:03 PMNothing better than the Big 12 and Big 10 POYs watching the Final Four game with foul trouble in the Final Four. Love college reffing and rules.
First rule change Id make if possible is going to 6 fouls to foul out.
Quote from: tower912 on April 04, 2026, 08:39:55 PMWife just informed me she had UConn vs Michigan in her bracket. I hate rooting for Michigan.
She also had High Point over Wisconsin.
34th anniversary today. She once again proves how smart she is.
You've been married as long as I've been alive, impressive feat.
This Michigan team is insane tonight, Arizona doesn't know what hit em.
As for UConn, Muggsys right.
Never in my wildest dreams would I have guessed that team makes the title game.
They seemed in shambles late in the season.
Dan Hurley is a HOFer
Bottom line? UCONN better hope Michigan doesn't shoot a decent percentage from distance. Mara has been by far the best player on the floor. Dropping dimes like Stockton.
https://x.com/optastats/status/2040632282914959499?s=61
Quote from: MuggsyB on April 04, 2026, 07:51:32 PMUCONN won that game shooting 35%.
FG% isn't relevant.
UCONN outshot illinois 45.2% eFG% to 39.3%.
I'm already convinced that the team we beat on March 7 will beat Michigan on Monday night.
The basketball gods will have them banking in 3s and rallying from a 30-point deficit as the Wolverines self-destruct.
Sure glad we got that vaunted 1 seed match up - great basketball - much more exciting than a St. Peterequse making a final four run.
Quote from: 1SE on April 05, 2026, 04:38:44 AMSure glad we got that vaunted 1 seed match up - great basketball - much more exciting than a St. Peterequse making a final four run.
The truth is other than High Point, it's been a pretty meh tournament.
Quote from: DoctorV on April 04, 2026, 10:00:35 PMYou've been married as long as I've been alive, impressive feat.
This Michigan team is insane tonight, Arizona doesn't know what hit em.
As for UConn, Muggsys right.
Never in my wildest dreams would I have guessed that team makes the title game.
They seemed in shambles late in the season.
Dan Hurley is a HOFer
And the gap widens.
Willie the neighbors chihuahua.
The Lendenborg injury could have some impact tomorrow. UCONN will make Michigan chase a lot, and Yaxel is really good switching and guarding smalls. I also don't expect UCONN to kick the ball away like Zona did. Still, the question is will Demary, Ball, and Karaban make enough shots? Also, there's Reed vs Mara. Reed has to get the giant Spainard in foul trouble or be super efficient finishing at the rim. Mara's mobility impresses me and he can also pass and handle the ball a bit. I would think he'll be a top 20 pick. If I was matched up against Mara I would bang him a bit before attacking with a quick pivot and finish.
Quote from: MuggsyB on April 05, 2026, 07:10:45 AMIf I was matched up against Mara I would punch him in the knees.
I think a big key for Monday is whether UConn can play the game at their pace. It's easier to slow teams down, and here's how Michigan has fared in games at 65 or fewer possessions:
- 62 - LOSS - Duke 68-63
- 63 - LOSS - Purdue 80-72
- 64 - WIN - UCLA 86-56
- 65 - WIN - Ohio State 74-62
- 65 - WIN - Minnesota 77-67
- 65 - WIN - Iowa 71-68
I use 65 because UConn has played 5 games in this tournament all at 65 or fewer, with an average of 63.8 possessions. The Wolverines are 4-2 at 65 or fewer, UConn is 19-2 (losses to Arizona and St John's). It's no guarantee, Michigan blew out Ucla in 64 possessions and St John's blew out UConn in 63 at the BET.
UConn will need to slow it down, make Michigan chase them around the perimeter, drain the clock, not turn it over and give easy run-outs, and hit their shots, but considering it's Hurley, I expect a good gameplan and think UConn has a real shot if they can play their game.
The door cracked open with the Yaxel injury, especially if May is going to actually have him on the court. If not for that I'd take Michigan minus any number Vegas would reasonably set the spread at (looks like it's at 7.5 right now, and if not for Yaxel's injury I'd say Michigan covers double that).
I meant if I was Reed S-S.
Quote from: wadesworld on April 05, 2026, 08:26:04 AMThe door cracked open with the Yaxel injury, especially if May is going to actually have him on the court. If not for that I'd take Michigan minus any number Vegas would reasonably set the spread at (looks like it's at 7.5 right now, and if not for Yaxel's injury I'd say Michigan covers double that).
The weird thing about yesterday was that Cadeau was the best guard on the floor despite shooting poorly. He controlled everything. I can't see Michigan going that ballistic from 3 but they're clearly a significant favorite. My voodoo stuff against them didn't work.
:(
Quote from: tower912 on April 05, 2026, 06:58:30 AMWillie the neighbors chihuahua.
Does the truth sting that much Tower? I believe that I am a fan of MU as much as you. But you are blind to the truth. MU is not keeping up with the changing of college BB or with UConn, St. John's in its own league and you dont recognize it. You would rather throw out insults like some others here
Tower, the neighborhood fan girl.
Lol. The fun part is I know that is the best you have. I appreciate the laughs you provide me.
Keep trembling on the couch and yapping incessantly at the air.
Muggsy, I have watched Michigan a half dozen times this season, each time rooting against them. They are a freight train, the Borg. Mara's improvement over his time at UCLA is remarkable. I will be rooting for UConn, but Michigan is legit and has been all season. Dammit.
Quote from: MuggsyB on April 05, 2026, 07:10:45 AMIf I was matched up against Mara I would bang him a bit before attacking with a quick pivot and finish.
Paws?
https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/48403973/uconn-solo-ball-uncertain-ncaa-tournament-title-game
If UConn wins, it will be the first time that a team has won 3 times in 4 years since 1975, when UCLA won after also winning in 1972 and 73.
That would be a tremendous fete....
But they don't have a chance in hell....
Who is going to score for them.....And Michigan is putting 90 on their opponents....
Quote from: burger on April 05, 2026, 12:53:22 PMThat would be a tremendous fete....
But they don't have a chance in hell....
Who is going to score for them.....And Michigan is putting 90 on their opponents....
They definitely have a chance. It would be an upset, but far from the biggest one in this tournament.
Quote from: wadesworld on April 05, 2026, 12:54:56 PMThey definitely have a chance. It would be an upset, but far from the biggest one in this tournament.
Solo Ball might not play. Karaban is going to have an actual good game imo for them to have a legitimate chance.
Quote from: 1SE on April 05, 2026, 04:38:44 AMSure glad we got that vaunted 1 seed match up - great basketball - much more exciting than a St. Peterequse making a final four run.
Definitely. It was so much more enjoyable than when we got an overmatched mid major Cinderella like Butler in the Final Four.
Solo Ball not playing might help UConn.
Quote from: MU82 on April 05, 2026, 03:04:01 PMSolo Ball not playing might help UConn.
True as his 3 ball shot has been awful all year and his defense is also awful.
Quote from: MU82 on April 05, 2026, 03:04:01 PMSolo Ball not playing might help UConn.
It hurts their depth....but Ross has been pretty good.
Quote from: MuggsyB on April 05, 2026, 03:36:03 PMIt hurts their depth....but Ross has been pretty good.
Stewart is back healthy too
Quote from: Billy Hoyle on April 05, 2026, 02:04:36 PMDefinitely. It was so much more enjoyable than when we got an overmatched mid major Cinderella like Butler in the Final Four.
When you have to go back over 15 years to find an example it's probably not proving the point you want it to, especially when the other side of the argument needs to look all the way back to 2025 to point out an all time great Final Four with 4 one seeds/powerhouse programs.
Also, I'm sure the rotation of Shelvin Mack, Matt Howard, Andrew Smith, Shawn Vanzant, Ronald Nored, Zach Hahn, Chase Stigall, and Khyle Marshall would've definitely gone toe to toe with this year's Michigan team. ::)
Although there haven't been all that many true Final Four Cinderella stories (which is why folks remember them), one could argue there were a couple of Cinderella teams in the FF just 3 years ago - when the best seed was a #4.
Quote from: tower912 on April 05, 2026, 08:59:58 AMMuggsy, I have watched Michigan a half dozen times this season, each time rooting against them. They are a freight train, the Borg. Mara's improvement over his time at UCLA is remarkable. I will be rooting for UConn, but Michigan is legit and has been all season. Dammit.
Ya....they're really good. And definitely a problem. If they shoot a decent percentage from 3, UCONN is in a world of trouble.
Everyone knows that the team with the best FT% during the game will win.
Quote from: MuggsyB on April 05, 2026, 07:09:38 PMYa....they're really good. And definitely a problem. If they shoot a decent percentage from 3, UCONN is in a world of trouble.
Who woulda thunk? UCONN a Cinderella team in the final.
Quote from: wadesworld on April 05, 2026, 05:53:30 PMWhen you have to go back over 15 years to find an example it's probably not proving the point you want it to, especially when the other side of the argument needs to look all the way back to 2025 to point out an all time great Final Four with 4 one seeds/powerhouse programs.
Also, I'm sure the rotation of Shelvin Mack, Matt Howard, Andrew Smith, Shawn Vanzant, Ronald Nored, Zach Hahn, Chase Stigall, and Khyle Marshall would've definitely gone toe to toe with this year's Michigan team. ::)
Brad Stevens could have designed a better game plan to avoid the game being over in the first two minutes.
How about 2023, when SDSU/FAU went down to the last shot, or when 11 seed Loyola led Michigan at halftime? 2019 was more competitive with a 5 seed. 2018, with a 7 seed, was more competitive. Just because there are all high seeds doesn't guarantee the games will be better.
Also, the Butler/Duke final is the second-highest rated title game since 2005.
Quote from: Billy Hoyle on April 05, 2026, 10:05:28 PMBrad Stevens could have designed a better game plan to avoid the game being over in the first two minutes.
How about 2023, when SDSU/FAU went down to the last shot, or when 11 seed Loyola led Michigan at halftime? 2019 was more competitive with a 5 seed. 2018, with a 7 seed, was more competitive. Just because there are all high seeds doesn't guarantee the games will be better.
Also, the Butler/Duke final is the second-highest rated title game since 2005.
I too long for the days when the national champion winning team shot 35% from the field and that is double what their opponent shot. Stevens had such a masterclass of a gameplan that his Bulldogs shot 18% in the national championship. Wish we had those awesome 53-41 title games back. Cinderella danced until midnight.
Remember how embarrassing it was for Marquette to shoot 4/31 from 3 against NC State 2 years ago? Butler shot 3/31 from 2! Wiz kid Stevens at work against the .500 Big East UCONN.
The game would've been over before it started. If you haven't been paying attention, Michigan did to every opponent what they did to Arizona last night in the Tournament. Mid major, low major, high major. It has not mattered one bit.
The 2026 ratings through the Elite 8 (can't find anything showing Final 4 ratings from last night) were the highest since 1993. So seems like the sport/tournament hasn't been ruined by a lack of a bad/mediocre team making a deep run.
1984. Georgetown 53-40 over Kentucky. Kentucky goes 13-53, something like 3-30 in the second half. Riveting.
Regardless of which "side" one is on in this debate, cherry-picking stats and games is fun!
tower, I was at that game in 1984 ( back when it was fairly easy to go to the Final Four lol). Kentucky did not score for something like the first ten minutes of the second half. It was glorious...
Quote from: Billy Hoyle on April 05, 2026, 10:05:28 PMBrad Stevens could have designed a better game plan to avoid the game being over in the first two minutes.
How about 2023, when SDSU/FAU went down to the last shot, or when 11 seed Loyola led Michigan at halftime? 2019 was more competitive with a 5 seed. 2018, with a 7 seed, was more competitive. Just because there are all high seeds doesn't guarantee the games will be better.
Also, the Butler/Duke final is the second-highest rated title game since 2005.
Good points BH.
I'm not feeling great about UCONN's chances. They're going to have to control tempo, that's for sure.
My heart says UConn. My head says take Michigan and give the points. And I hate Michigan.
Quote from: tower912 on April 06, 2026, 06:56:31 PMMy heart says UConn. My head says take Michigan and give the points. And I hate Michigan.
Ya....can't stand them. But I respect Dusty May.
Idiotic foul by Demary.
Michigan's size is an early prob for UCONN.
It doesn't count if I complain about the refs when it isn't against MU, but that didn't seem close to a blocking foul against Ball on the last possession.
Quote from: MuggsyB on April 06, 2026, 07:59:08 PMMichigan's size is an early prob for UCONN.
Has been for everyone all season.
UCONN controlling tempo. But fouls could he a prob. Neither team has much offensive rhythm.
Cadaeu got significantly less arm on that foul than the play he didn't get called for a foul earlier
Smith has been way better than Demary.
Wow. I thought that was a jump ball.
I can't stand Mullins and there is no way that wasn't a jump ball
Foul calls are crazy
Quote from: 21Jumpstreet on April 06, 2026, 08:30:00 PMFoul calls are crazy
Did they call a moving screen on that one??
Refs are letting UM bang away, travel, and set moving picks all game long. Not calling it the same for both teams right now.
Strategy wise I'd give UCONN an A right now. Unfortunately the fouls are piling up.
WTF??
Seriously??
These refs are ridiculous.
Maybe it wasn't a good idea for Hurley to scream and rant at breeding all season.
Refs helping Michigans completely bought $ team
UCONN needs to get to the half. Huge swing the last minute or so.
5v8 is tough
Are the refs also getting part of UM's huge NIL account?
Quote from: warriors141 on April 06, 2026, 08:42:10 PMRefs helping Michigans completely bought $ team
...and we play them next season.
I can't believe Michigan didn't get the call the way it has been called so far
Quote from: Norm on April 06, 2026, 08:43:32 PMAre the refs also getting part of UM's huge NIL account?
My bets on Vegas.
Logic woukd say UCONN should be happy because they totally controlled tempo and Michigan has only 33 points, but I think they blew an opportunity to be up 8-10 as opposed to down 4. Michigan with zero triples in the 1H btw.
Ref show helping UM. UM is gonna hit some threes in the second half. UConn's knocking on deaths door
Quote from: Johnny B on April 06, 2026, 08:56:19 PMRef show helping UM. UM is gonna hit some threes in the second half. UConn's knocking on deaths door
That's my concern.
Quote from: muwarrior69 on April 06, 2026, 08:43:55 PM...and we play them next season.
Getting excited
already with your expectation of a game you can mock Marquette about?
80 foot chest pass. Egad.
Huh??? WTF was that call?
Wow. It's too bad UCONN can't score.
Danger time. Someone on UCONN has to make things happen and it's not gonna be Reed shooting over Mara.
Solo Ball with possibly the dumbest 3:40 possible to start the half.
Too much size. Very unfortunate.
Mullins and Karaban need to start hitting some 3s here, getting good looks and missing looks like Marquette
Quote from: MuggsyB on April 06, 2026, 09:20:02 PMToo much size. Very unfortunate.
Leading to too many UConn fouls.
Solo ball with two moronic fouls. Jesus majority of UConn starters already with 3 or 4 fouls 5 min into the half. Things done Michigan up 8 and hasn't hit a 3. Bench gonna play out of their minds for unconn to have a chance
Add hand checking and body bumping to the stuff the refs let UM get away with.
Uh-Oh.
Quote from: Norm on April 06, 2026, 09:24:52 PMAdd hand checking and body bumping to the stuff the refs let UM get away with.
.
The foul disparity hasn't helped UCONN.
Quote from: Norm on April 06, 2026, 09:24:52 PMAdd hand checking and body bumping to the stuff the refs let UM get away with.
The refs have been fine. You do this all the time and don't realize how biased you are.
UCONN has gotten a little sped up.
Quote from: The Sultan on April 06, 2026, 09:30:22 PMThe refs have been fine. You do this all the time and don't realize how biased you are.
I'm not sure the "refs have been fine." Very physical game and hard to officiate, but Michigan has been beating the crap out of UCONN, and they have substantially fewer fouls. The way the game has been played, foul count should be pretty even, the fact there is such a foul disparity is surprising.
And this is from someone that likes seeing Hurley upset and losing.
Quote from: The Sultan on April 06, 2026, 09:30:22 PMThe refs have been fine. You do this all the time and don't realize how biased you are.
I do this all the time? Hmm. I don't post that often, but if you're monitoring my posts I'll have to take your word for it.
Quote from: forgetful on April 06, 2026, 09:34:28 PMI'm not sure the "refs have been fine." Very physical game and hard to officiate, but Michigan has been beating the crap out of UCONN, and they have substantially fewer fouls. The way the game has been played, foul count should be pretty even, the fact there is such a foul disparity is surprising.
Nope. The refs have been largely consistent.
Mullins has to hit that. Damn.
Mullins can't hit crap
Overinflation.
Pretty surprised UCONN is still right there and can't hit anything from the perimeter.
Both teams keep shooting 3s even though they are ice cold. Seems oddly familiar.
It seems overly physical on the perimeter to me.
Mullins is going to be such an incredibly awesome John Horst pick at 10. Out of the league by 2029.
Quote from: tower912 on April 06, 2026, 09:42:32 PMBoth teams keep shooting 3s even though they are ice cold. Seems oddly familiar.
.
UCONN can't score inside and clearly have no idea how to lace the floater or 8 footer. Tony Parker would be having a field day out there.
It is very physical. The officials are allowing the defenders to put two hands on the ballhandler. Both teams.
Quote from: MuggsyB on April 06, 2026, 09:45:49 PM.
UCONN can't score inside and clearly have no idea how to lace the floater or 8 footer. Tony Parker would be having a field day out there.
He's 43 years old.
UCONN 7 of 26 for the half.
Ouch.
Quote from: The Sultan on April 06, 2026, 09:46:53 PMHe's 43 years old.
In his prime. Dude would be cooking this Michigan team. :)
Demary has been an absolute disaster.
Ball game.
Or maybe not. :)
Quote from: MuggsyB on April 06, 2026, 09:49:07 PMIn his prime. Dude would be cooking this Michigan team. :)
So would Yao Ming
I enjoyed UCONN shooting like this much more when it was against MU than tonight
Quote from: Uncle Rico on April 06, 2026, 09:51:33 PMSo would Yao Ming
Actually a good stretch 5 woukd be throttling Michigan.
Quote from: MuggsyB on April 06, 2026, 09:53:07 PMActually a good stretch 5 woukd be throttling Michigan.
Good thing you can pick one up at Dollar General.
Quote from: tower912 on April 06, 2026, 09:54:55 PMGood thing you can pick one up at Dollar General.
Nowitzki would be fine out there. :)
47 years old.
Quote from: MuggsyB on April 06, 2026, 09:41:30 PMPretty surprised UCONN is still right there and can't hit anything from the perimeter.
Maybe because Michigan is 1 for 14 from three, but you'll probably blame that on the refs.
I see ZERO reason to prioritize a big while watching this game. ;D
Ouch. Rough sequence there.
Huh, it seems like making FTs helps your teams outcome
I hate the Big Ten
Could have gotten to four. What a bad time for a bricked chippie.
I love the tournament now that there are no upsets and a handful of rich schools can buy starting lineups of players other schools recruited and developed....so much better!
Quote from: warriors141 on April 06, 2026, 10:06:13 PMI love the tournament now that there are no upsets and a handful of rich schools can buy starting lineups of players other schools recruited and developed....so much better!
Yeah, rich schools weren't winning all the national titles before the last 4 years.
Quote from: MUEng92 on April 06, 2026, 10:04:58 PMI hate the Big Ten
If Michigan holds on, this is the 4th title for the league since the tourney expanded to 64 teams. That's still a terrible record. It's also quite humorous that Michigan will have 2 of them and Izzo is March will only have the 1.
Quote from: wadesworld on April 06, 2026, 10:07:07 PMYeah, rich schools weren't winning all the national titles before the last 4 years.
UConn does it the right way. No transfers and 4 year student athletes that play for the name on the front of the jersey
Indiana fans looking at May coaching Michigan and Mullins playing for UConn and weeping bitterly.
Quote from: MUEng92 on April 06, 2026, 10:04:58 PMI hate the Big Ten
Will have the football and men's and women's basketball titles.
Quote from: Uncle Rico on April 06, 2026, 10:07:14 PMIf Michigan holds on, this is the 4th title for the league since the tourney expanded to 64 teams. That's still a terrible record. It's also quite humorous that Michigan will have 2 of them and Izzo is March will only have the 1.
Still too many
Quote from: The Sultan on April 06, 2026, 10:09:27 PMWill have the football and men's and women's basketball titles.
Makes sense they certainly have enough teams
F uck this yellow mercenary team.
Quote from: MUEng92 on April 06, 2026, 10:10:01 PMStill too many
Get used to it. The money cannons at their schools are about to dominate the landscape for a long time and it'll only increase after they raid the ACC
Quote from: wadesworld on April 06, 2026, 10:07:07 PMYeah, rich schools weren't winning all the national titles before the last 4 years.
Yes, but you and to recruit and develop players over some course of time, not just go out and purchase a starting 5
Size matters in hoops sadly.
Unless you have:
Curry
SGA
Jordan
Barkley
The Big O
:)
Quote from: warriors141 on April 06, 2026, 10:12:08 PMYes, but you and to recruit and develop players over some course of time, not just go out and purchase a starting 5
Michigan will do the same thing next year.
My brother is friends with the Orchard Lake St Mary's basketball coach where Trey McKinney played in high school. He was leaning MSU until he got $5 million to go to UM. Their NIL is ridiculous.
Wow. Too little too late. No pun intended.
Quote from: warriors141 on April 06, 2026, 10:12:08 PMYes, but you and to recruit and develop players over some course of time, not just go out and purchase a starting 5
You're not required to watch.
That could have been a 4 point play.
Quote from: Norm on April 06, 2026, 10:13:16 PMMy brother is friends with the Orchard Lake St Mary's basketball coach where Trey McKinney played in high school. He was leaning MSU until he got $5 million to go to UM. Their NIL is ridiculous.
Is this a fact? Because I think Dybantsa got 4.2.
Quote from: MuggsyB on April 06, 2026, 10:13:41 PMWow. Too little too late. No pun intended.
Not over yet. UConn has done this before
Wow. Total brick. Fk.
Quote from: MuggsyB on April 06, 2026, 10:15:06 PMIs this a fact? Because I think Dybantsa got 4.2.
That's what the OLSM coach told my brother.
Quote from: The Sultan on April 06, 2026, 10:14:23 PMYou're not required to watch.
TBH....i really don't anymore besides Marquette and the tournament. I think if this no rules transfer portal mercenary theme continues, more fans will start dropping out as they realize their teams have no chance. Especially if nba improves its trash product. Can't believe some on here are happy or cheering this on, as it's a death blow for Marquette and many other big east schools
Who won't have money to compete
It would be hilarious if they called an F1.
Quote from: Norm on April 06, 2026, 10:17:52 PMThat's what the OLSM coach told my brother.
That sounds high to me Norm.
Quote from: Norm on April 06, 2026, 10:13:16 PMMy brother is friends with the Orchard Lake St Mary's basketball coach where Trey McKinney played in high school. He was leaning MSU until he got $5 million to go to UM. Their NIL is ridiculous.
My buddy was director of Jeremy Fears's EYBL program and he said Fears' dad said he was only getting $30k to go to MSU. I'm sure both are 100% accurate.
2 guards aren't getting $5 million while McDonald's AA guards are getting far more than $30k
C'mon Breeding make up some rule like you have in the past
Quote from: warriors141 on April 06, 2026, 10:18:04 PMTBH....i really don't anymore besides Marquette and the tournament. I think if this no rules transfer portal mercenary theme continues, more fans will start dropping out as they realize their teams have no chance. Especially if nba improves its trash product. Can't believe some on here are happy or cheering this on, as it's a death blow for Marquette and many other big east schools
Who won't have money to compete
Hope you find something to fill your time.
Quote from: Norm on April 06, 2026, 10:17:52 PMThat's what the OLSM coach told my brother.
Yeah I wouldn't believe everything you hear about NIL numbers. Maybe it's true, but $5MM for a 4 star recruit to come off the bench is hard to believe.
Quote from: The Sultan on April 06, 2026, 10:19:21 PMHope you find something to fill your time.
Hahaha 😂 yea, plenty out there to do besides sitting on the couch watching a game
Quote from: warriors141 on April 06, 2026, 10:18:04 PMTBH....i really don't anymore besides Marquette and the tournament. I think if this no rules transfer portal mercenary theme continues, more fans will start dropping out as they realize their teams have no chance. Especially if nba improves its trash product. Can't believe some on here are happy or cheering this on, as it's a death blow for Marquette and many other big east schools
Who won't have money to compete
It's really not much different than it has been. The big schools can pay players legally now just like they could illegally before.
Really impressed with UCONN tonight. They couldn't shoot well and were undermanned but never gave up and played hard.
Quote from: wadesworld on April 06, 2026, 10:19:46 PMYeah I wouldn't believe everything you hear about NIL numbers. Maybe it's true, but $5MM for a 4 star recruit to come off the bench is hard to believe.
Yeah, not sure of a reason for the OLSM coach to lie to my brother as they are friends. The OLSM coach said the offer really surprised him. Maybe he's wrong. Just sharing info with the board some might find interesting.
The "appeal" rule is so dumb. Coaches essentially can have 4 challenges, plus the actual challenge they get, and just use the "appeals" as timeouts. Especially because the "appeals" will take longer than a timeout, even if it's obvious what the call should be.
Need to get rid of those. So many reviews. Makes the game so choppy and slow.
Really wish they had a live camera on Tom Izzo
Quote from: Norm on April 06, 2026, 10:23:00 PMYeah, not sure of a reason for the OLSM coach to lie to my brother as they are friends. The OLSM coach said the offer really surprised him. Maybe he's wrong. Just sharing info with the board some might find interesting.
Over 5 years perhaps it's valued that high. Probably $350-400k per year in revenue share, he gets a Ford Bronco, and then other opportunities. But it's certainly not $5 million/year.
Quote from: Billy Hoyle on April 06, 2026, 10:29:51 PMOver 5 years perhaps it's valued that high. Probably $350-400k per year in revenue share, he gets a Ford Bronco, and then other opportunities. But it's certainly not $5 million/year.
Possibly, but outside of McKinney, aren't NIL packages usually per year not cumulative over 4 years?
Quote from: Billy Hoyle on April 06, 2026, 10:29:51 PMOver 5 years perhaps it's valued that high. Probably $350-400k per year in revenue share, he gets a Ford Bronco, and then other opportunities. But it's certainly not $5 million/year.
$5 million is what the top veteran QBs are getting in the portal, so it's hard to imagine many freshman basketball players getting the same.
The stoopid 3rd and 4th fouls on Ball were killers - he actually was doing decently on offense but he took himself outta the game.
And yet ... when UConn banked in ANOTHER 3 and then got the ball back on a sloppy turnover, so they were down by only 4 with the ball and around 35 seconds left, I thought the Hurley rabbit's foot might work again.
How to make the best One Shining Moment vid? 100% High Point highlights.
Quote from: MU82 on April 06, 2026, 10:43:02 PMThe stoopid 3rd and 4th fouls on Ball were killers - he actually was doing decently on offense but he took himself outta the game.
And yet ... when UConn banked in ANOTHER 3 and then got the ball back on a sloppy turnover, so they were down by only 4 with the ball and around 35 seconds left, I thought the Hurley rabbit's foot might work again.
A very poor display of intelligence by Solo Ball.
The best team won the championship.
Quote from: Norm on April 06, 2026, 10:33:06 PMPossibly, but outside of McKinney, aren't NIL packages usually per year not cumulative over 4 years?
For guys you know are one and done they aren't, but many are multi year deals. Look at the fight over Mensah leaving Duke. Underwood at UM's deal is valued at $13 million if he stays four years.
Very few hoops players are making $5 million/year. Dominant bigs or generational players like Dybansta are in that range. Guards coming off the bench definitely aren't.
Quote from: MU82 on April 06, 2026, 10:43:02 PMThe stoopid 3rd and 4th fouls on Ball were killers - he actually was doing decently on offense but he took himself outta the game.
And yet ... when UConn banked in ANOTHER 3 and then got the ball back on a sloppy turnover, so they were down by only 4 with the ball and around 35 seconds left, I thought the Hurley rabbit's foot might work again.
He had the right game plan but missing 24 threes and shooting 30% overall was the dagger. Mullens shooting 4/17 wasn't in the game plan
Quote from: Jay Bee on April 06, 2026, 10:43:46 PMHow to make the best One Shining Moment vid? 100% High Point highlights.
Oh.....no doubt. Boyd waving at the crowd while his team gets obliterated by that diminutive guard. I wish I could have seen that live. :(
Quote from: Billy Hoyle on April 06, 2026, 10:49:03 PMHe had the right game plan but missing 24 threes and shooting 30% overall was the dagger. Mullens shooting 4/17 wasn't in the game plan
Just not their night. But three Final Fours in four years, three title games and two National Championships is extremely impressive.
MU has been to three Final Fours in 52 years, 49 years and 23 years. Two title games and one National Title. We are due.
Marquette beat UCONN by 6 also. We Are The Champions
Quote from: MarquetteMike1977 on April 06, 2026, 10:58:42 PMMarquette beat UCONN by 6 also. We Are The Champions
I mean M*U=U*M - commutativity - it's just math.
Quote from: nyg on April 06, 2026, 10:56:45 PMJust not their night. But three Final Fours in four years, three title games and two National Championships is extremely impressive.
MU has been to three Final Fours in 52 years, 49 years and 23 years. Two title games and one National Title. We are due.
The gap is way too wide unless Shaka gets his giddyup going. Can he do it?
Quote from: MarquetteMike1977 on April 06, 2026, 10:58:42 PMMarquette beat UCONN by 6 also. We Are The Champions
keep smoking pal.
Quote from: MarquetteMike1977 on April 06, 2026, 10:58:42 PMMarquette beat UCONN by 6 also. We Are The Champions
Not unless Shaka giddyups as Willie has demanded over and over and over and over and over and over...
The gap is widening and widening and widening and widening and widening and widening...
Quote from: Scoop Snoop on April 07, 2026, 08:16:07 AMNot unless Shaka giddyups as Willie has demanded over and over and over and over and over and over...
The gap is widening and widening and widening and widening and widening and widening...
If we all match Willie's yearly donations to the program, I think the turnaround will be quick.
Quote from: MarquetteMike1977 on April 06, 2026, 10:58:42 PMMarquette beat UCONN by 6 also. We Are The Champions
...but will we beat Michigan by 6 next season.
Quote from: Uncle Rico on April 07, 2026, 08:19:19 AMIf we all match Willie's yearly donations to the program, I think the turnaround will be quick.
Even the walk-ons will get a trip to the vending machines!!
Quote from: The Sultan on April 07, 2026, 08:26:19 AMEven the walk-ons will get a trip to the vending machines!!
#BeTheDifference
Quote from: Scoop Snoop on April 07, 2026, 08:16:07 AMNot unless Shaka giddyups as Willie has demanded over and over and over and over and over and over...
The gap is widening and widening and widening and widening and widening and widening...
Neighbor's chihuahua energy.
Quote from: Scoop Snoop on April 07, 2026, 08:16:07 AMNot unless Shaka giddyups as Willie has demanded over and over and over and over and over and over...
The gap is widening and widening and widening and widening and widening and widening...
You are absolutely right. Any evidence to the contrary? Enlighten us.
Quote from: tower912 on April 07, 2026, 08:28:51 AMNeighbor's chihuahua energy.
Neighborhood fangirl overselling MUs current status in basketball world.
Quote from: willie warrior on April 07, 2026, 12:09:25 PMNeighborhood fangirl overselling MUs current status in basketball world.
Hey, he misgendered you!
Next step is a nickname! Will it involve genitalia? Twater912?
Quote from: The Sultan on April 07, 2026, 12:12:29 PMHey, he misgendered you!
Next step is a nickname! Will it involve genitalia? Twater912?
I tried to top your "Twater912", but I cannot.
Rico should show up soon to give it a go.
Quote from: The Sultan on April 07, 2026, 12:12:29 PMHey, he misgendered you!
Next step is a nickname! Will it involve genitalia? Twater912?
Misgendering is such a classic Willie move. Really put Tower in his place. I'm not sure he'll ever recover from such a devastating attack.
The cultists own the playground insults. True artists in the genre.
Quote from: Scoop Snoop on April 07, 2026, 12:15:02 PMI tried to top your "Twater912", but I cannot.
Rico should show up soon to give it a go.
That's above Willie's intellect.
Quote from: Scoop Snoop on April 07, 2026, 12:15:02 PMI tried to top your "Twater912", but I cannot.
Rico should show up soon to give it a go.
It's also a double insult because it could be interpreted that he's an engine guy instead of a truck guy, but that will only make sense to a pretty small sample size.
Quote from: Uncle Rico on April 07, 2026, 12:38:30 PMMisgendering is such a classic Willie move. Really put Tower in his place. I'm not sure he'll ever recover from such a devastating attack.
The cultists own the playground insults. True artists in the genre.
OK, maybe something a bit tamer. After all, "The Penguin" in
The Blues Brothers movie would rap Sultan's knuckles with her yardstick for that.
Lol. Chihuahua shows his teeth. Everybody laughs.
Which of you is Big East Ben?
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/HFUSaViX0AA8IPd?format=jpg&name=large)
Quote from: Pakuni on April 07, 2026, 03:54:30 PMWhich of you is Big East Ben?
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/HFUSaViX0AA8IPd?format=jpg&name=large)
Gold.
Quote from: Scoop Snoop on April 07, 2026, 12:53:08 PMOK, maybe something a bit tamer. After all, "The Penguin" in The Blues Brothers movie would rap Sultan's knuckles with her yardstick for that.
It is grand that I will always live rent free in Reekers mind. Classifying my comment about Tower as "misgendering" is a beauty coming from a guy who has made numerous racial comments about whites.
Quote from: Scoop Snoop on April 07, 2026, 12:53:08 PMOK, maybe something a bit tamer. After all, "The Penguin" in The Blues Brothers movie would rap Sultan's knuckles with her yardstick for that.
Can you share some of your comments about whites that Willie finds offensive?
Quote from: Uncle Rico on April 07, 2026, 05:24:52 PMCan you share some of your comments about whites that Willie finds offensive?
Nope. Sultan owns the misgendering comment.
Quote from: Scoop Snoop on April 07, 2026, 05:28:14 PMNope. Sultan owns the misgendering comment.
My bad. Sultan can share his anti-white comments.