After the Tennessee State game in which Weber was clearly outcoached by the Tennessee State coach, Cy Alexander, the quotes are interesting to read. It's also interesting that the guy in charge has no responsibility for the loss, even when its an upset against an inferior team. Quotes are below and a link to the full article.
“We have to come with a whole new attitude and a new focus. We’re humble right now,” Meacham said.
Illinois head coach Bruce Weber admitted the Tigers’ zone defense gave the Illini trouble.
“We didn’t come ready to play at the beginning with the emotion and the intensity,” Weber said. “We let our offense or lack of offense affect our defense.”
Weber also questioned the team’s maturity level and its inability to mentally prepare for a game, even if wasn’t a Big Ten opponent.
“It’s just very disappointing, it’s very tough to swallow,” Weber said. “We have to keep learning lessons, and this is about as tough a lesson. If they can’t figure something out after this, we’re in trouble.”
Sunday, December 30, 2007
Illini Scoring Woes
The Illini scoring woes continued today, and were not limited to embarrassingly poor free throw shooting. Shaun Pruitt needs to be sitting on the bench during the last 10 minutes of any close game, period. And he needs to be working on European geography and languages for his professional career starting next year.
The three guard and four guard line-up needs to go, and be brought back in 2008 or 2009. Why? Deron Williams, Luther Head and Dee Brown have left campus for quite some time, and their replacements are not anywhere close to being as efficient as they were. To demonstrate my point, I put together some season to date statistics on the top 10 Illini players, to show how much each scores per 40 minutes, and ranked them accordingly.
Shaun Pruitt 19.9 ppg
Brian Randle 18.1 ppg
Mike Tisdale 16.5 ppg
Trent Meacham 15.7 ppg
Rodney Alexander 15.3 ppg
Bill Cole 15.3 ppg
Calvin Brock 13.1 ppg
Mike Davis 11.8 ppg
Demetri McCamey 9.6 ppg
Chester Frazier 6.3 ppg
We need to play one point guard, not two point guards this year, since neither one has good scoring capability. I realize we can't play both centers all the time, but we need to put some emphasis on having guys on the floor that can put the ball in the cylinder.
The three guard and four guard line-up needs to go, and be brought back in 2008 or 2009. Why? Deron Williams, Luther Head and Dee Brown have left campus for quite some time, and their replacements are not anywhere close to being as efficient as they were. To demonstrate my point, I put together some season to date statistics on the top 10 Illini players, to show how much each scores per 40 minutes, and ranked them accordingly.
Shaun Pruitt 19.9 ppg
Brian Randle 18.1 ppg
Mike Tisdale 16.5 ppg
Trent Meacham 15.7 ppg
Rodney Alexander 15.3 ppg
Bill Cole 15.3 ppg
Calvin Brock 13.1 ppg
Mike Davis 11.8 ppg
Demetri McCamey 9.6 ppg
Chester Frazier 6.3 ppg
We need to play one point guard, not two point guards this year, since neither one has good scoring capability. I realize we can't play both centers all the time, but we need to put some emphasis on having guys on the floor that can put the ball in the cylinder.
Tennessee State Beats Illini 60-58
The Illini hit a new low this season, losing to Tennessee State on Illinois' home court. Tennessee State was, as I predicted, a difficult team to beat, even though they are expected to be in the lower half of the Ohio Valley conference this year.
I think Bruce Weber deserves the heat for this embarrassing defeat:
-Chet Frazier played the entire game and did not shut down the Tennessee State leading scorer, Bruce Price, who had 17 points to lead the Tigers. Frazier had 2 points in the game and took some ridiculous shots. (Bruce Weber, please review the game film and make some changes.)
-The Illini were not ready for the Tiger's zone defense, and struggled to play offense most of the day. Trent Meacham did have a nice day shooting from outside, scoring 24 points the lead the Illini.
-The Illini featured two point guards most of the game, Frazier and McCamey, which reduced any frontcourt advantage you might have expected for the Illini.
-Shaun Pruitt was left in at the end of the game. He was fouled with the game on the line and missed both free throws before being lifted by Weber.
-Down by two points with time for one last play, Weber called timeout and had Mike Tisdale, our freshman center take a long shot from outside to save the game. He missed the shot and the buzzer sounded. Was this the play Weber called?
This kind of home loss is a tournament resume killer. The Illini can look forward to the NIT this year unless they find a way to finish in the top 3 in the Big 10, or win the Big 10 tourney.
At this point, Weber needs to bench Pruitt, Randle and Frazier and let the younger guys get more game experience. And if Rodney Alexander can't get out of the doghouse, he might as well transfer to somewhere he can play basketball. He made a shot going to the hoop today when he was fouled hard, and it was the play of the game for the Illini. He is very talented and athletic, but only played 11 minutes.
Crandall Head was apparently at the game today, and was able to witness how much Illinois needs him at the guard or wing position.
I think Bruce Weber deserves the heat for this embarrassing defeat:
-Chet Frazier played the entire game and did not shut down the Tennessee State leading scorer, Bruce Price, who had 17 points to lead the Tigers. Frazier had 2 points in the game and took some ridiculous shots. (Bruce Weber, please review the game film and make some changes.)
-The Illini were not ready for the Tiger's zone defense, and struggled to play offense most of the day. Trent Meacham did have a nice day shooting from outside, scoring 24 points the lead the Illini.
-The Illini featured two point guards most of the game, Frazier and McCamey, which reduced any frontcourt advantage you might have expected for the Illini.
-Shaun Pruitt was left in at the end of the game. He was fouled with the game on the line and missed both free throws before being lifted by Weber.
-Down by two points with time for one last play, Weber called timeout and had Mike Tisdale, our freshman center take a long shot from outside to save the game. He missed the shot and the buzzer sounded. Was this the play Weber called?
This kind of home loss is a tournament resume killer. The Illini can look forward to the NIT this year unless they find a way to finish in the top 3 in the Big 10, or win the Big 10 tourney.
At this point, Weber needs to bench Pruitt, Randle and Frazier and let the younger guys get more game experience. And if Rodney Alexander can't get out of the doghouse, he might as well transfer to somewhere he can play basketball. He made a shot going to the hoop today when he was fouled hard, and it was the play of the game for the Illini. He is very talented and athletic, but only played 11 minutes.
Crandall Head was apparently at the game today, and was able to witness how much Illinois needs him at the guard or wing position.
Tennessee State Preview
Illini fans are probably expecting an easy W today with a home game against Tennessee State. But looking at their games this year against Indiana and Vanderbilt, they are not a team to be overlooked. They stayed within 12 points of both Indiana and Vandy this year on the road, so look for them to give the Illini at least a scare. Tennesse State plays small, but has some high scoring guards in Bruce Price (20.8 ppg) and Gerald Robinson Jr. (17.6 ppg). Basically, this is a game where Chester Frazier and Calvin Brock can earn their minutes by playing tough defense against the Tennessee State guards. We can also expect the Illini to play a smaller lineup to neutralize the scoring of Tennessee State.
Stan Simpson elevating his game
Stan Simpson had an outstanding game against Bloomington recently, with 24 points, 5 rebounds and 4 blocked shots. Simeon coach Robert Smith likes his development, which was recently aided by a workout with former Simeon star Tim Flowers, who was home on break from Wisconsin Milwaukee. Story
Stan Simpson has committed to Illinois and will enroll in Champaign in the fall of 2008.
Stan Simpson has committed to Illinois and will enroll in Champaign in the fall of 2008.
Saturday, December 29, 2007
Crandall Head showing he's a top player from 2010 Class
Crandall Head is having some great games in his sophomore year, playing for Rich South. Here are some quotes from the Southtown Star:
One of the stars of the show was Rich South sophomore Crandall Head, who after a four-point first half exploded for 20 points in the final 16 minutes, highlighted by five spectacular dunks that thrilled the packed gymnasium. He was all alone for a probable sixth slam, but settled for a layup.
"I was too tired," Head said with a smile after a game in which he made 11 of 14 shots from the field. "This was our best second half of the season. We played hard and had a lot of fun. Now we've got to play like this for 32 minutes, instead of 16." Link to the entire story
Head also had some great dunks against Thornton this past week.
Crandall Head is widely expected to provide Illinois with a verbal commitment in January, and follow in the footsteps of his brother, Luther Head.
One of the stars of the show was Rich South sophomore Crandall Head, who after a four-point first half exploded for 20 points in the final 16 minutes, highlighted by five spectacular dunks that thrilled the packed gymnasium. He was all alone for a probable sixth slam, but settled for a layup.
"I was too tired," Head said with a smile after a game in which he made 11 of 14 shots from the field. "This was our best second half of the season. We played hard and had a lot of fun. Now we've got to play like this for 32 minutes, instead of 16." Link to the entire story
Head also had some great dunks against Thornton this past week.
Crandall Head is widely expected to provide Illinois with a verbal commitment in January, and follow in the footsteps of his brother, Luther Head.
Friday, December 28, 2007
Brandon Paul Scores 36 against Shumpert
Illini recruit Brandon Paul went up against Iman Shumpert tonight and scored 36 points against the highly-rated guard from the 2008 class. Shumpert is headed to Georgia Tech after this season. Paul is a fast-rising guard from the 2009 class. The game went into double overtime, and Paul's team Warren prevailed in the contest from the Pontiac tourney. Iman Shumpert scored 34 points and had 9 rebounds.
Story
Brandon Paul's rankings within the 2009 class are rising fast!
Story
Brandon Paul's rankings within the 2009 class are rising fast!
Nice Win Against Loyola Maryland
The Illini had a convincing win tonight against Loyola Maryland, 77-43. Box Score
This was a good game to watch because the Illini were home and were able to get back on track in several ways: playing tough defense (held Loyola to 20% FG shooting), scoring better and shooting free throws at 72%. Pruitt had a very solid game with 16 points and 11 rebounds, Randle had an impressive performance with 17 points including 3 or 4 great dunks, and McCamey had one of his best games at guard, with 9 points and 4 assists in 24 minutes. There was also the opportunity to play lots of guys and Davis, Tisdale and Cole all made some nice contributions off the bench.
The Illini offense still needs to get sharper, but this was a truly outstanding defensive effort, holding Loyola to their lowest scoring of the year, and lowest percentage shooting night of the year. The Loyola head coach was really giving them an earful when he called timeouts.
This was a good game to watch because the Illini were home and were able to get back on track in several ways: playing tough defense (held Loyola to 20% FG shooting), scoring better and shooting free throws at 72%. Pruitt had a very solid game with 16 points and 11 rebounds, Randle had an impressive performance with 17 points including 3 or 4 great dunks, and McCamey had one of his best games at guard, with 9 points and 4 assists in 24 minutes. There was also the opportunity to play lots of guys and Davis, Tisdale and Cole all made some nice contributions off the bench.
The Illini offense still needs to get sharper, but this was a truly outstanding defensive effort, holding Loyola to their lowest scoring of the year, and lowest percentage shooting night of the year. The Loyola head coach was really giving them an earful when he called timeouts.
Wednesday, December 26, 2007
Could Jamar Smith return for Big 10 Season?
There is a theory that Jamar Smith may be cleared to rejoin the Illini basketball team for the Big 10 season starting in January or February. Basically, Jamar was given a 1 year suspension, and while the plan was to redshirt him for the season, he has served his time, and the Illini need help at shooting guard. Also, they don't need as much shooting help in 2009 due to the incoming group of freshmen and Alex Legion.
Given the Illini shooting and scoring woes this season, I think this could make sense for the team. And if Jamar has sat out the appointed timeframe, why not? This kind of move would be controversial, but could help the Illini make the NCAAs this year.
Given the Illini shooting and scoring woes this season, I think this could make sense for the team. And if Jamar has sat out the appointed timeframe, why not? This kind of move would be controversial, but could help the Illini make the NCAAs this year.
Monday, December 24, 2007
Merry Christmas Illini Fans
Illini fans, Merry Christmas to all of you.
-We have the Rose Bowl coming up on New Years Day.
-Alex Legion announced he is transferring to the Illini this coming semester.
-Crandall Head is expected to provide a verbal commitment to the Illini in January.
-And a rumor just surfaced that Jamar Smith might resume playing for the Illini in January 2008.
Go Illini!
Sunday, December 23, 2007
Illini Recruiting Summary through 2010
Congrats to Coach Bruce Weber and Jerrance Howard on their recruiting success recently. As we look ahead to the 2008, 2009 and 2010 classes, we have much to be optimistic about, as we build on the Class of 2007.
2007 Class
McCamey, Pt Guard
Davis, Forward
Cole, Forward
Tisdale, Center
Add: Legion, Shooting Guard via transfer
2008 Class
Simpson, Center
2009 Class
Richardson, Guard
Bertrand, Guard/Wing
Paul, Guard/Wing
2010 Class
Richmond, Wing/Forward
Head, Wing (expected to commit in January)
The Illini will start taking on a new look next season, with Jamar Smith back at shooting guard along with Alex Legion becoming eligible in the second half of the season.
The Illini will be loaded in 2009, with three freshman guards joining Smith and Legion.
The Illini will be particularly dangerous in 2010, since they will have the 2007 class, the guards of 2009, along with Richmond and Head, assuming no one is leaving college early.
Basically, Illini fans need some patience, since 2008 will be another rebuilding year, followed by expected improvement in 2009 and 2010, when Illinois can be expected to be a national powerhouse once again.
2007 Class
McCamey, Pt Guard
Davis, Forward
Cole, Forward
Tisdale, Center
Add: Legion, Shooting Guard via transfer
2008 Class
Simpson, Center
2009 Class
Richardson, Guard
Bertrand, Guard/Wing
Paul, Guard/Wing
2010 Class
Richmond, Wing/Forward
Head, Wing (expected to commit in January)
The Illini will start taking on a new look next season, with Jamar Smith back at shooting guard along with Alex Legion becoming eligible in the second half of the season.
The Illini will be loaded in 2009, with three freshman guards joining Smith and Legion.
The Illini will be particularly dangerous in 2010, since they will have the 2007 class, the guards of 2009, along with Richmond and Head, assuming no one is leaving college early.
Basically, Illini fans need some patience, since 2008 will be another rebuilding year, followed by expected improvement in 2009 and 2010, when Illinois can be expected to be a national powerhouse once again.
Saturday, December 22, 2007
Quinton Watkins enrolling at San Diego State
It's good to see Quinton Watkins is planning to play college basketball after all, and in Southern California. He is planning to play at San Diego State, and will be eligible to play next season. Good luck, Quinton.
Update: Aztec fans want to know the source of the story, and it is rivals.com, look at the bottom of the page for the story. By the way, we could have used help at the guard position this year, but doubt Watkins would have been enough. Now we have lots of help coming in 2009 and 2010, so Illini fans need patience.
Update: Aztec fans want to know the source of the story, and it is rivals.com, look at the bottom of the page for the story. By the way, we could have used help at the guard position this year, but doubt Watkins would have been enough. Now we have lots of help coming in 2009 and 2010, so Illini fans need patience.
Illini Win a Wild "Bragging Rights" Game 59-58
The Illini pulled out a close one tonight against Mizzou, with Pruitt scoring near the end, and Missouri turning the ball over when they tried to score. Pruitt and Meacham played really well, and Randle did OK when he was in there. Frazier's troubles continued, with low production of assists and too many turnovers. Demetri McCamey actually looked quicker and more capable at running the motion offense compared to Frazier. Mike Davis looked good out there tonight, and he does add some scoring to the line up. Meacham did a nice job as well, despite some turnover issues. It was a physical game, and Illinois could have been better at the boards, but in the end they won an ugly game with their defense holding down the Missouri scoring. The pressing defense of Mizzou also did not give them too much of an advantage, since the turnovers were fairly even. Box Score
Not sure if the Illini are back on track, but it feels great to get a win against a tough opponent.
Not sure if the Illini are back on track, but it feels great to get a win against a tough opponent.
Mizzou Game at Halftime
The Illini look OK at halftime, hanging with Mizzou. Weber has gone more athletic, playing Alexander, Davis and Pruitt on the frontline, and McCamey and Meacham at guard. We need to stay athletic and aggressive, and leave Frazier on the bench.
Having Randle in foul trouble looks like a blessing right now. Frazier is not looking good in the offense again this game. Meacham and Pruitt are the leading scorers for the Illini at halftime.
Not sure if we can finish in the second half or not, but this will be an interesting test for this offensively-challenged team.
Having Randle in foul trouble looks like a blessing right now. Frazier is not looking good in the offense again this game. Meacham and Pruitt are the leading scorers for the Illini at halftime.
Not sure if we can finish in the second half or not, but this will be an interesting test for this offensively-challenged team.
Yes, Alex Legion Transferring to Illinois
Well, we can honestly say we need help at the guard position after recent games this season. Now it seems certain that Alex Legion plans to transfer from Kentucky to Illinois this coming semester, and he would be eligible to play at Illinois during the second half of next season. Fox Sports
Chicago Tribune
Kudos to Bruce Weber and Jerrance Howard on this recruitment via transfer. Apparently Alex Legion likes the guard-oriented motion offense and is very comfortable with Illinois now that Jerrance Howard is an assistant there.
Chicago Tribune
Kudos to Bruce Weber and Jerrance Howard on this recruitment via transfer. Apparently Alex Legion likes the guard-oriented motion offense and is very comfortable with Illinois now that Jerrance Howard is an assistant there.
Thursday, December 20, 2007
Ugly, Is this really basketball?
I brought myself to watching the entire Miami of Ohio game tonight, including the bonus overtime footage. I'm surprised the Illini made it to overtime with their struggles to score and must have set records in futility for field goal and free throw shooting. The announcers were raving about Pruitt and I just wanted him to sit down every time he went to the free throw line.
Chet Frazier must be the worst point guard in the Big 10 this year and should not be allowed to shoot the ball. He should not be able to dribble the ball either, because his turnovers at the end of the game kill all team momentum. Meacham looks sick again, and it must be his ankle. McCamey seems redundant when he is paired with Frazier. For that matter, Meacham looks redundant when paired with Frazier or McCamey. Why so many point guards who cannot create anything?
I think the entire team needs to learn the motion offense all over again, because the only scoring took place when someone would throw the ball to Pruitt, or make an individual move. The offense is not creating any opportunities.
Randle made some nice shots, but is still not that useful in there. Brock is OK, but not really an offensive threat. Rodney Alexander is the only talented player on offense, but he must still be in Weber's doghouse. Mike Davis can score, so why is he on the bench?
The team needs a psychologist on staff, to help them improve at the free throw line. I can't believe a college team is this embarrassingly bad at shooting free throws. Even Kenny Battle can tell why Pruitt misses, he takes a different type of shot each time.
I think this season is on a steep decline now, and Weber needs to start developing the freshmen. The Pruitt, Randle and Frazier show is not something I can watch much longer, other than for comedy hour.
Chet Frazier must be the worst point guard in the Big 10 this year and should not be allowed to shoot the ball. He should not be able to dribble the ball either, because his turnovers at the end of the game kill all team momentum. Meacham looks sick again, and it must be his ankle. McCamey seems redundant when he is paired with Frazier. For that matter, Meacham looks redundant when paired with Frazier or McCamey. Why so many point guards who cannot create anything?
I think the entire team needs to learn the motion offense all over again, because the only scoring took place when someone would throw the ball to Pruitt, or make an individual move. The offense is not creating any opportunities.
Randle made some nice shots, but is still not that useful in there. Brock is OK, but not really an offensive threat. Rodney Alexander is the only talented player on offense, but he must still be in Weber's doghouse. Mike Davis can score, so why is he on the bench?
The team needs a psychologist on staff, to help them improve at the free throw line. I can't believe a college team is this embarrassingly bad at shooting free throws. Even Kenny Battle can tell why Pruitt misses, he takes a different type of shot each time.
I think this season is on a steep decline now, and Weber needs to start developing the freshmen. The Pruitt, Randle and Frazier show is not something I can watch much longer, other than for comedy hour.
Western Carolina Game
I have resisted posting any comments on this game, because I Tivo'd the game, watched the first half and it was so ugly I could not bring myself to watch the second half. Maybe sometime soon I will be brave enough. My main comment from the first half is the Illini basketball team makes me think basketball will someday move to offensive and defensive teams, rather than having five guys playing both ways. When they change the game, this team was ahead of its time, because our starters should all be playing on defense. It's almost a miracle when someone scores a basket.
Sunday, December 16, 2007
Illini Recruits at Assembly Hall
This weekend there was some big time high school basketball at the Assembly Hall in Champaign, and several Illini recruits showed their stuff: D.J. Richardson, Brandon Paul, Jereme Richmond and Bertrand. The biggest scorer was Crandall Head, who put on a scoring show, and later explained that he will announce he is going to Illinois in January to follow in the footsteps of his brother, Luther Head. This must have been an awesome weekend to watch basketball in Champaign, and Illini fans have a lot to be excited about in the next 2-3 years. Link
Supinie takes us through the games as well.
Supinie takes us through the games as well.
Thursday, December 13, 2007
Legion coming to visit Illinois on Tuesday
Alex Legion is supposed to be visiting the Illinois campus on Tuesday, and meeting with coach Bruce Weber during the visit. Link
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
More Alex Legion Talk
Herb Gould of the Sun-Times has a source who claims the Illini are looking at Alex Legion now as a potential transfer to Illinois who could help them next season potentially.......
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
Alex Legion could transfer to Illinois
According to Marc Maggard, a guy that follows Kentucky basketball closely, Alex Legion might be looking at Illinois as he plans to transfer to another school this year. Marc has been posting on Illinois Loyalty on this topic, and it makes for interesting speculation, if nothing else. Apparently, Jerrance Howard spent the summer with Alex Legion at Kentucky and knows him well. Link
Bruce needs to reconfigure Illini for Offense
I took a few days off after the Arizona loss to collect my thoughts rather than lash out at the team or their fine head coach, Bruce Weber. After all, it's just another loss in a season that should have low expectations. I don't want to rehash the game, but rather comment on the rest of the season, and what Weber should do with this team.
Bruce Weber knows the team needs scoring at the end of the game, and players who can create offense. I can't think of anyone better at this than Rodney Alexander, yet he is in Weber's doghouse and hardly playing these days. Bruce, please wake up and put Rodney Alexander in the game again.
A bright spot within the freshmen this year is Mike Davis, who was expected to redshirt this season at earlier points in the year. Davis can leap, dunk and has a nice jump shot, so he needs to get more minutes at the expense of Randle or someone else.
Bill Cole has a great looking three point shot, and shows lots of hustle when he has had an opportunity to play. But for some reason (I know, a freshman), he has spent lots of time on the bench. Cole needs to play and be allowed to take some shots. Better him shooting than Frazier dribbling the ball.
Demetri McCamey looks like he will be a nice point guard for the Illini. He needs to be given the ball more minutes each week, so that he is playing point guard at least half the game by the Big 10 season. Sorry, Bruce. Frazier is too limited on the offensive side of the court.
At the end of the game, we need a team that can score and shoot free throws, maybe a lineup like this:
Trent Meacham
Demetri McCamey
Rodney Alexander
Mike Davis
Mike Tisdale
Come to think of it, that lineup would be nice at the start of the game, as well.
Bruce Weber knows the team needs scoring at the end of the game, and players who can create offense. I can't think of anyone better at this than Rodney Alexander, yet he is in Weber's doghouse and hardly playing these days. Bruce, please wake up and put Rodney Alexander in the game again.
A bright spot within the freshmen this year is Mike Davis, who was expected to redshirt this season at earlier points in the year. Davis can leap, dunk and has a nice jump shot, so he needs to get more minutes at the expense of Randle or someone else.
Bill Cole has a great looking three point shot, and shows lots of hustle when he has had an opportunity to play. But for some reason (I know, a freshman), he has spent lots of time on the bench. Cole needs to play and be allowed to take some shots. Better him shooting than Frazier dribbling the ball.
Demetri McCamey looks like he will be a nice point guard for the Illini. He needs to be given the ball more minutes each week, so that he is playing point guard at least half the game by the Big 10 season. Sorry, Bruce. Frazier is too limited on the offensive side of the court.
At the end of the game, we need a team that can score and shoot free throws, maybe a lineup like this:
Trent Meacham
Demetri McCamey
Rodney Alexander
Mike Davis
Mike Tisdale
Come to think of it, that lineup would be nice at the start of the game, as well.
Friday, December 7, 2007
Arizona Game with Peets Coffee at 9am Pac/11am Central
I might be drinking my Peets coffee tomorrow morning when the Illini tip off against the Wildcats of Arizona. For some reason, I am looking forward to this game, thinking positively about the speculation that Pruitt won't play due to his ankle injury. Bruce Weber was quoted as saying that Pru's jumping has been impacted by the injury and some are posting on boards that he actually gets lower to the ground now when he jumps. Said differently, Pruitt can't jump when he's healthy. This has not been Shaun's year, and I don't think we need him in the line-up to match up with Arizona.
My Keys to the Game for Illinois:
1. This is a home game for Illinois, not a neutral court game. We should come out pressing full-court, try to create turnovers and easy fast break hoops to get the crowd in the game. We need a hostile environment.
2. Lock-down defense. Obviously Randle is our lock-down guy, and he will take Chase, but we shouldn't obsess over Randle's fouls. Weber should have 3-4 players take turns guarding Budinger during the game. We are deep, and I could see Cole coming in and taking him, as well as Brock and Alexander. Guys defend better when they aren't worried about fouls. At point guard, Frazier needs to slow down Bayless, Arizona's highly-touted freshman point guard.
3. Use the bench, Bruce. Arizona is not a deep team this year, and the Illinois bench can probably outscore the starters in points/minute. If we go deep in the bench, maybe we can wear down the Wildcats tomorrow.
4. Need to keep scoring. Weber needs to rotate guys to keep scorers in the ballgame. We lost the Maryland game at the end, because we kept waiting for Pruitt, Randle and Frazier to contribute, and kept Rodney on the bench. We have decent guys on the bench, and we need to use them. Rodney Alexander, Bill Cole and Mike Davis can play on the offensive end, so we need to have shooters in each rotation to avoid going cold.
If we execute these keys well, we won't need to worry about making free throws or the calls by the refs, or profanity-laced tirades from disgusting Kevin O'Neill.
My Keys to the Game for Illinois:
1. This is a home game for Illinois, not a neutral court game. We should come out pressing full-court, try to create turnovers and easy fast break hoops to get the crowd in the game. We need a hostile environment.
2. Lock-down defense. Obviously Randle is our lock-down guy, and he will take Chase, but we shouldn't obsess over Randle's fouls. Weber should have 3-4 players take turns guarding Budinger during the game. We are deep, and I could see Cole coming in and taking him, as well as Brock and Alexander. Guys defend better when they aren't worried about fouls. At point guard, Frazier needs to slow down Bayless, Arizona's highly-touted freshman point guard.
3. Use the bench, Bruce. Arizona is not a deep team this year, and the Illinois bench can probably outscore the starters in points/minute. If we go deep in the bench, maybe we can wear down the Wildcats tomorrow.
4. Need to keep scoring. Weber needs to rotate guys to keep scorers in the ballgame. We lost the Maryland game at the end, because we kept waiting for Pruitt, Randle and Frazier to contribute, and kept Rodney on the bench. We have decent guys on the bench, and we need to use them. Rodney Alexander, Bill Cole and Mike Davis can play on the offensive end, so we need to have shooters in each rotation to avoid going cold.
If we execute these keys well, we won't need to worry about making free throws or the calls by the refs, or profanity-laced tirades from disgusting Kevin O'Neill.
Sunday, December 2, 2007
Pasadena for the Rose Bowl
This is the first year for the Illini football team to make the Rose Bowl, since I migrated west, from Illinois to California. Now it is a reasonably drivable distance to get to Pasadena. I guess it would be a great way to cap off the year, having been to the Hall Of Fame Invitational, Masters, and Maui Classic this past year. It does sound like a nice idea..........
Indiana Southern Illinois Game
OK, this blog is supposed to be all about the Illini bballers, but I watched the Hoosiers play Weber's former school and Gordon is scary good. Definitely ready to make the move to the NBA.
I'm not sure if the Illini can beat the Hoosiers this year, the way Gordon played at Carbondale. His scoring was down slightly against the great defense of SIU, but the rest of his game was still awesome. Gordon drives on the fast break by himself, even one on two, and has the moves to finish at the rim. Gordon's touch on his NBA 3 pointers is silky smooth, like free throws for a good shooter. The most impressive part of Gordon's performance was his defense. I had seen him block shots in high school near the hoop, but against SIU, he would play his guy tight on the perimeter, anticipate when a 3 pointer was coming, and quickly jump and deflect the shot. I credit Gordon with getting in the heads of the SIU shooters, who struggled the entire game from outside. The announcers seemed confused why SIU shots kept getting blocked, but it was mainly the athletic ability of Gordon, from my view.
I'm sure Chris Lowery and Bruce Weber will compare notes on the IU team prior to the Big 10 contests for Illini against Gordon. My take: you need to use several different guys on Gordon, to take him out of position, if that's possible. You also can try some hard fouls like SIU did to get in his head. But he is definitely ready for the big time, and this is just a quick peek at one fantastic NBA player.
I'm not sure if the Illini can beat the Hoosiers this year, the way Gordon played at Carbondale. His scoring was down slightly against the great defense of SIU, but the rest of his game was still awesome. Gordon drives on the fast break by himself, even one on two, and has the moves to finish at the rim. Gordon's touch on his NBA 3 pointers is silky smooth, like free throws for a good shooter. The most impressive part of Gordon's performance was his defense. I had seen him block shots in high school near the hoop, but against SIU, he would play his guy tight on the perimeter, anticipate when a 3 pointer was coming, and quickly jump and deflect the shot. I credit Gordon with getting in the heads of the SIU shooters, who struggled the entire game from outside. The announcers seemed confused why SIU shots kept getting blocked, but it was mainly the athletic ability of Gordon, from my view.
I'm sure Chris Lowery and Bruce Weber will compare notes on the IU team prior to the Big 10 contests for Illini against Gordon. My take: you need to use several different guys on Gordon, to take him out of position, if that's possible. You also can try some hard fouls like SIU did to get in his head. But he is definitely ready for the big time, and this is just a quick peek at one fantastic NBA player.
Saturday, December 1, 2007
Weber State Recap
This was generally a nice game to recover from the Maryland disaster. Weber played everyone except Jamar Smith (out for year) and Brian Carlwell (out injured knee), due to the huge lead that was built on solid defense and Meacham's shooting. Trent Meacham had a career high with 26 points on 11-15 shooting. Box Score
-Something is still wrong with Shaun Pruitt, probably a hip problem. He missed two dunks early and seemed out of sync. I would rest him if his injury is affecting his play.
-Randle played some good defense, but scored only 2 points on 1-5 shooting.
-Frazier played well, made some shots and ran the offense when in there.
-Tisdale had more minutes today and looked really good against this kind of competition. He had some nice shots and a dunk.
-Davis played really well, had a back door dunk and a tip dunk of a miss, and nice jumper. He continues to show huge potential, and now everyone should know why he wasn't redshirted. I can see him contributing in the Big Ten season.
-Rodney Alexander did not get many minutes today. He seems to be in the doghouse from the Maryland game.
-Jordan got some playing time and did not play that well.
In the post game interview, Weber was very candid about how he doesn't know which guys to put in the game. He has a lot of guys and some of the reserves look better than the starters, but the starters are the best defenders and rebounders generally speaking.
After watching this game, I think Tisdale, Davis and McCamey could see a lot of playing time this year. And if Meacham can shoot like this, he should be a starter the rest of the year.
-Something is still wrong with Shaun Pruitt, probably a hip problem. He missed two dunks early and seemed out of sync. I would rest him if his injury is affecting his play.
-Randle played some good defense, but scored only 2 points on 1-5 shooting.
-Frazier played well, made some shots and ran the offense when in there.
-Tisdale had more minutes today and looked really good against this kind of competition. He had some nice shots and a dunk.
-Davis played really well, had a back door dunk and a tip dunk of a miss, and nice jumper. He continues to show huge potential, and now everyone should know why he wasn't redshirted. I can see him contributing in the Big Ten season.
-Rodney Alexander did not get many minutes today. He seems to be in the doghouse from the Maryland game.
-Jordan got some playing time and did not play that well.
In the post game interview, Weber was very candid about how he doesn't know which guys to put in the game. He has a lot of guys and some of the reserves look better than the starters, but the starters are the best defenders and rebounders generally speaking.
After watching this game, I think Tisdale, Davis and McCamey could see a lot of playing time this year. And if Meacham can shoot like this, he should be a starter the rest of the year.
Tyler Griffey, Class of 2009
I just stumbled onto the personal website of Tyler Griffey, which has lots of great information about this highly recruited player from the class of 2009. I'm not sure why other kids don't do a better job of marketing themselves like Tyler did with this website. I'm not sure if Tyler had someone build this for him, or if he did it by himself, but it looks good. Link
Carlwell rumored to be out for 4-6 weeks
I have not seen anything official on this yet, but some of the boards are saying Brian Carlwell sprained a knee in practice this week, and will be out for 4-6 weeks. They probably don't need to rush him back, since he has played very little this year.
Weber's in Town on Monday
For my Chicago readers, this is a "heads up" to get over to Joe's Bar to see Coach Weber do his weekly radio show there. If I lived in the Chicago area, I would be there. But I don't, and just saw the coach in Maui around a week ago. But this sounds like a nice event.
Nice Story about Quinn Buckner
My friend Legal Pub has an exclusive story about Quinn Buckner and Bob Knight over at LegalPub. I just wish we could keep those talented Illinois kids on our side of the border.........
Maybe they need to hire Buckner to replace Coach Sampson.
Maybe they need to hire Buckner to replace Coach Sampson.
Shaun Pruitt's Troubles this Season
Mark Tupper has some feedback from Coach Weber on Shaun Pruitt's troubles scoring this year, in this article. It's good to know they are talking about it, but it seems to me Pruitt needs to do one of two things when he has the ball on the block: dunk it or pass it to someone who can dunk it. If Pruitt keeps shooting 25% from 6 feet and closer, he needs to sit on the bench.
Weber State Preview
Weber State should not be underestimated by the Illini, even though they have themselves back at the friendly Assembly Hall for a game. Weber State made the NCAA tourney last year and are coached by highly respected Randy Rahe. Weber State has a bunch of new players this year, after losing two starters, David Patten and Dan Henry. Juan Pablo Silveira is a highly rated guard, who averaged 11 points per game last season and shot 45 percent from three point range (better shooter than any Illini). Weber State's leading scorer thus far has been Arturas Valeika, a 6-9 forward from Lithuania. Valeika has been averaging 14.8 points per game this season for the Wildcats.
The Illini will need good perimeter pressure today. Three of the Wildcats are shooting better than 50% from three point range this season: Billings, Valeika and Van Brocklin are all hot from outside in the early season.
Illinois represents one of three key non-conference games this year for the Wildcats in building their tourney resume. Other games are with BYU and New Mexico.
The Sporting News rates the Weber State Wildcats as the number three team in the Big Sky conference this year. The Wildcats are coming off a blowout at the hands of Utah, 72-52.
For the Illini, they need to get Randle, Pruitt and Frazier back on track, and continue the strong play of Brock and Alexander. If they go deep in their rotation, it would be good to see more of Tisdale, Cole and Davis.
The Illini will need good perimeter pressure today. Three of the Wildcats are shooting better than 50% from three point range this season: Billings, Valeika and Van Brocklin are all hot from outside in the early season.
Illinois represents one of three key non-conference games this year for the Wildcats in building their tourney resume. Other games are with BYU and New Mexico.
The Sporting News rates the Weber State Wildcats as the number three team in the Big Sky conference this year. The Wildcats are coming off a blowout at the hands of Utah, 72-52.
For the Illini, they need to get Randle, Pruitt and Frazier back on track, and continue the strong play of Brock and Alexander. If they go deep in their rotation, it would be good to see more of Tisdale, Cole and Davis.
Calvin Brock Coverage in the Tribune
Calvin Brock is becoming a leader on this year's basketball squad. According to Weber:
-Randle struggled in the Maryland game due to his injury the prior game.
-Pruitt has been hurting due to a hip pointer.
Tribune Article Link
-Randle struggled in the Maryland game due to his injury the prior game.
-Pruitt has been hurting due to a hip pointer.
Tribune Article Link
Rich Semrau cleared for extra season and won't transfer
Some news out about Semrau. He qualified for the medical redshirt last year, so his last season with the Illini will be 2010-2011. This allows him to play a senior year with Jereme Richmond when he is a freshman. Semrau does not plan to transfer, but intends to build up his game so that he can play. After watching him in Maui, I think he looks like he has the body to play 4 or even 5 in the next year or so. He is much stronger looking than Tisdale, Cole, Davis, etc. Article
Thursday, November 29, 2007
Coach Weber's Dog House
After the last game, I became motivated to create a new distinction among the Illini basketball players, Coach Weber's Dog House. I will periodically name a new player who seems to be in Coach Weber's Dog House.
Rodney Alexander played fairly well in the first half of the Maryland game. He was one of the bright spots on the team, particularly his dunk of a missed shot. In the second half, he had some defensive lapses guarding a freshman named Tucker, and sat on the bench the rest of the game while the Illini suffered from a scoring drought. For this benching of a starter, Rodney is the first member of Coach Weber's Dog House this season.
Amazing statistics last night
Here are some statistics that are really amazing from last night's Maryland game:
Illinois Field Goal Shooting%: 33%
Pruitt/Randle/Frazier Field Goal Shooting%: 21.4%
I guess this explains why Meacham has the green light to shoot a three pointer every time he gets the ball.....it's a better bet than the other guys.
There are a few angry posters over at Mark Tupper's blog.
Illinois Field Goal Shooting%: 33%
Pruitt/Randle/Frazier Field Goal Shooting%: 21.4%
I guess this explains why Meacham has the green light to shoot a three pointer every time he gets the ball.....it's a better bet than the other guys.
There are a few angry posters over at Mark Tupper's blog.
Eric Gordon should be a lottery pick
Eric Gordon is showing the world he is an outstanding athlete at IU this year, with incredible leaping ability, a silky soft touch from three point range, and even on tough nights scoring 30 points easily.
Eric can be expected to be a lottery pick in the next NBA draft, since his game is already at that level as a freshman in Bloomington, Indiana.
The Illini will look forward to playing him this year, despite the challenge he represents to their team.
But will the NCAA let the Hoosiers play in the postseason this year, likely to be Gordon's only year? We will find out soon enough.
Eric can be expected to be a lottery pick in the next NBA draft, since his game is already at that level as a freshman in Bloomington, Indiana.
The Illini will look forward to playing him this year, despite the challenge he represents to their team.
But will the NCAA let the Hoosiers play in the postseason this year, likely to be Gordon's only year? We will find out soon enough.
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Maryland Recap
A discouraging game for the Illini tonight, featured poor field goal shooting (33%) for the game, poor free throw shooting, defensive lapses and weak rebounding in the second half. Pruitt, Randle and Frazier had horrible games, yet the Illini found themselves down by only 2 points, 62-60 with 1:15 left in the game. Pruitt missed a dunk, was fouled, missed the free throws, and the game got away from them.
In the first half, Brian Randle got into early foul trouble and sat down most of the half. Shaun Pruitt struggled the entire game, and was only able to convert 4 of 16 shots for the game. Pruitt was triple-teamed at times, and rarely thought about passing the ball to teammates. Meanwhile, Frazier was apparently nervous due to being back home in Maryland, going scoreless for the game, with some bad turnovers.
Rodney Alexander, Calvin Brock, Trent Meacham and Demetri McCamey had fairly solid games for the Illni, and Brock was the leading scorer for the game. Rodney Alexander looked good most of the game, but was benched the last 10 minutes of the game, after allowing freshman Cliff Tucker to make 5 consecutive points in a Maryland run.
Coach Weber had an idea that a three guard offense would match up well with Maryland's big front line. Unfortunately, this strategy backfired for the Illini, since they struggled to stop Maryland's taller front line at critical points in the second half, and their rebounding suffered as well.
The Illini did well to compete with Maryland, since their line-up down the stretch featured several players that could not score (Pruitt, Randle and Frazier), leaving Brock and Meacham with scoring responsibility.
My conclusions from this game:
1. It is very hard to win games when you shoot 33% as a team. It's also hard to shoot better than 33% when Pruitt and Randle are playing (both shot 25%). Frazier shot 0% for the game.
2. Illinois players that cannot shoot free throws should be benched, period.
3. Players who need to be on the floor are: McCamey, Brock, Alexander, Davis/Cole and Tisdale.
4. Smart teams will triple-team Pruitt until he learns how to pass. They will also foul Pruitt and Randle until they learn to shoot free throws.
5. It could be a long season for the Illini, similar to last year, when they could not score. I think Coach Weber needs to start playing guys that will be around next year, since his seniors are struggling.
In the first half, Brian Randle got into early foul trouble and sat down most of the half. Shaun Pruitt struggled the entire game, and was only able to convert 4 of 16 shots for the game. Pruitt was triple-teamed at times, and rarely thought about passing the ball to teammates. Meanwhile, Frazier was apparently nervous due to being back home in Maryland, going scoreless for the game, with some bad turnovers.
Rodney Alexander, Calvin Brock, Trent Meacham and Demetri McCamey had fairly solid games for the Illni, and Brock was the leading scorer for the game. Rodney Alexander looked good most of the game, but was benched the last 10 minutes of the game, after allowing freshman Cliff Tucker to make 5 consecutive points in a Maryland run.
Coach Weber had an idea that a three guard offense would match up well with Maryland's big front line. Unfortunately, this strategy backfired for the Illini, since they struggled to stop Maryland's taller front line at critical points in the second half, and their rebounding suffered as well.
The Illini did well to compete with Maryland, since their line-up down the stretch featured several players that could not score (Pruitt, Randle and Frazier), leaving Brock and Meacham with scoring responsibility.
My conclusions from this game:
1. It is very hard to win games when you shoot 33% as a team. It's also hard to shoot better than 33% when Pruitt and Randle are playing (both shot 25%). Frazier shot 0% for the game.
2. Illinois players that cannot shoot free throws should be benched, period.
3. Players who need to be on the floor are: McCamey, Brock, Alexander, Davis/Cole and Tisdale.
4. Smart teams will triple-team Pruitt until he learns how to pass. They will also foul Pruitt and Randle until they learn to shoot free throws.
5. It could be a long season for the Illini, similar to last year, when they could not score. I think Coach Weber needs to start playing guys that will be around next year, since his seniors are struggling.
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
Maryland Preview
I remember the game with Maryland last year at the Assembly Hall, and it was a tough loss for the Illini, to lose their winning streak against non-conference opponents. Greivis Vasquez was incredibly tough for the Terrapins in that game, and it was a key victory for Maryland in their comeback year to return to the NCAA tourney.
This year they have less experience, having lost three seniors from last year, DJ Strawberry, Ekene Ibekwe and Mike Jones. They have two sophomore guards returning, Vasquez and Eric Hayes, a point guard. Vasquez is a guy who drives to the hoop or shoots, and Hayes is a traditional point guard. Their front line includes James Gist, who is a 6-8 forward who is an athletic scorer, and Bambale Osby, a big 6-8 250 pound forward and Landon Milbourne, a 6-7 forward. Coming off the bench are Braxton Dupree, Adrian Bowie, Cliff Tucker and Dave Neal.
For the Illini, they are likely to go with a deep rotation of players, based on recent comments from Coach Weber. Brian Randle is expected to play, and either Trent Meacham or Calvin Brock will start at shooting guard.
The biggest challenges for the Illini in this game:
1. Dealing with the crowd in the first tough road game of the young season.
2. Avoiding long scoring lapses similar to last season. We need dependable scorers.
3. Finding someone to match up with Vasquez, the 6-5 shooting guard from Venezuela.
While Randle, Brock or Alexander may be up to the task, Maryland normally plays two guards and three forwards, making match-ups tricky for the Illini. Basically if Randle takes Vasquez, we will have a guard on one of their big forwards, not a good match-up. If we go with three guards, we may also suffer on defense. I think Illinois needs to play only two guards against Maryland and avoid bad match-ups. Brock should be able to match up with Vasquez for part of the game, and they can try McCamey as well.
This year they have less experience, having lost three seniors from last year, DJ Strawberry, Ekene Ibekwe and Mike Jones. They have two sophomore guards returning, Vasquez and Eric Hayes, a point guard. Vasquez is a guy who drives to the hoop or shoots, and Hayes is a traditional point guard. Their front line includes James Gist, who is a 6-8 forward who is an athletic scorer, and Bambale Osby, a big 6-8 250 pound forward and Landon Milbourne, a 6-7 forward. Coming off the bench are Braxton Dupree, Adrian Bowie, Cliff Tucker and Dave Neal.
For the Illini, they are likely to go with a deep rotation of players, based on recent comments from Coach Weber. Brian Randle is expected to play, and either Trent Meacham or Calvin Brock will start at shooting guard.
The biggest challenges for the Illini in this game:
1. Dealing with the crowd in the first tough road game of the young season.
2. Avoiding long scoring lapses similar to last season. We need dependable scorers.
3. Finding someone to match up with Vasquez, the 6-5 shooting guard from Venezuela.
While Randle, Brock or Alexander may be up to the task, Maryland normally plays two guards and three forwards, making match-ups tricky for the Illini. Basically if Randle takes Vasquez, we will have a guard on one of their big forwards, not a good match-up. If we go with three guards, we may also suffer on defense. I think Illinois needs to play only two guards against Maryland and avoid bad match-ups. Brock should be able to match up with Vasquez for part of the game, and they can try McCamey as well.
Sunday, November 25, 2007
IU Coach Sampson honored by SI.com
The timing of the award is somewhat surprising, but SI.com just paid an honor to Coach Kelvin Sampson of the Indiana Hoosiers. Coach Sampson received his award shortly before Thanksgiving according to published reports.
Brandon Paul Scores 28 against Bartlett
Brandon Paul is looking like the top recruit in Illinois for the class of 2009, according to the Illinois Prep Bullseye website. Brandon is athletic, a scorer and lock down defender, and scored 28 points in the Fremd tourney this week against Bartlett.
I'm not sure if the top recruit of the class is widely agreed yet, but this is good news to Coach Bruce Weber, who hurried up to Palatine in time to see this game.
I'm not sure if the top recruit of the class is widely agreed yet, but this is good news to Coach Bruce Weber, who hurried up to Palatine in time to see this game.
ESPN Crew hard at work
The easy way to get on National TV?
Just look for the red light on the TV camera, then walk behind Jay Bilas, it's almost guaranteed!
Friday, November 23, 2007
Thoughts on Maui (Jay Bilas)
I really enjoy Jay Bilas as part of the ESPN broadcasting team, as well as his writings for ESPN.com. Here are some of his thoughts on the Illini from the Maui trip, as well as his all tourney teams:
Link
All-Tourney Teams
Link
All-Tourney Teams
Back from Maui Invitational
I am back in California, having returned from a really nice Maui Invitational. The Illini had a good trip, with three victories on the Islands, and the loss to Duke.
I had some unique opportunities to see the players and coaches close up on Maui. We stayed at the same hotel as the teams from Duke, Princeton and Chaminade. For all of the negative press about college athletes getting in trouble, I never saw any bad behavior from these players. In fact, they were all extremely polite.
It would have been nice to see more of the Illini players, but as I mentioned earlier, wrong hotel. I did jog over there one day, and had an opportunity to run into Coach Weber with his family heading to the beach. I gave him a break and left him alone, since it is nice he takes time out for his family while on a basketball trip.
Last night on the flight back to San Francisco, we were on the same flight as the Cowboys of Oklahoma State. This was their first leg of three flights to get them back to Stillwater, Oklahoma. The players seem determined to not let the Maui losses set them back on their season, since it's a long season that just got started. Sean Sutton, their head coach, was able to joke with them about their situation of being cramped in coach seats, even though several are 6-8 and taller. He said something about had they won, they would be sitting in the front of the plane eating steak. Since they lost, they would be eating dog food (Alpo) instead, when they got back home. He had a big grin on his face, so he has a nice sense of humor. These players were also very polite and well-behaved on the flight, even though they had a disappointing tourney for them.
The flight crew from United did something I have never seen before. Rather than making the players put their legs in front of them (nearly impossible for some in the 767 coach configuration), they let them put their legs and feet in the aisles most of the flight, and avoided using the aisle as much as possible. It was a red-eye flight, so this was easy for the flight crew.
I had some unique opportunities to see the players and coaches close up on Maui. We stayed at the same hotel as the teams from Duke, Princeton and Chaminade. For all of the negative press about college athletes getting in trouble, I never saw any bad behavior from these players. In fact, they were all extremely polite.
It would have been nice to see more of the Illini players, but as I mentioned earlier, wrong hotel. I did jog over there one day, and had an opportunity to run into Coach Weber with his family heading to the beach. I gave him a break and left him alone, since it is nice he takes time out for his family while on a basketball trip.
Last night on the flight back to San Francisco, we were on the same flight as the Cowboys of Oklahoma State. This was their first leg of three flights to get them back to Stillwater, Oklahoma. The players seem determined to not let the Maui losses set them back on their season, since it's a long season that just got started. Sean Sutton, their head coach, was able to joke with them about their situation of being cramped in coach seats, even though several are 6-8 and taller. He said something about had they won, they would be sitting in the front of the plane eating steak. Since they lost, they would be eating dog food (Alpo) instead, when they got back home. He had a big grin on his face, so he has a nice sense of humor. These players were also very polite and well-behaved on the flight, even though they had a disappointing tourney for them.
The flight crew from United did something I have never seen before. Rather than making the players put their legs in front of them (nearly impossible for some in the 767 coach configuration), they let them put their legs and feet in the aisles most of the flight, and avoided using the aisle as much as possible. It was a red-eye flight, so this was easy for the flight crew.
Thursday, November 22, 2007
Illini Take Third Place in Maui with Win over OSU
OSU did not look very good against the Illini, but I watched the Cowboys this week, and they are an athletic team with some possibilities as they mature.
-Trent Meacham had a nice game and was the leading scorer off the bench.
-Frazier is steady and solid this year at PG. Watching him live you appreciate his defense and rebounding more than on TV. His mistakes are limited these days.
-McCamey had a solid game with some assists and good leadership on the floor.
-Brock was the second leading scorer, was all tourney team for Illini, and played well enough to make the starting lineup today.
-Pruitt did a little better, but still needs to get back to his old game from last year.
-Alexander is an awesome athlete, and a great addition to this team.
-Randle has a deep bruise on his leg, so he sat out with ice on his leg.
-Tis, Cole and DAvis looked good in the game.
The Illini defense was really solid in this game, holding OSU to horrible shooting for the game. Like last year, Illinois will win games with their defense this season. Rebounding by the team is very impressive also.
-Trent Meacham had a nice game and was the leading scorer off the bench.
-Frazier is steady and solid this year at PG. Watching him live you appreciate his defense and rebounding more than on TV. His mistakes are limited these days.
-McCamey had a solid game with some assists and good leadership on the floor.
-Brock was the second leading scorer, was all tourney team for Illini, and played well enough to make the starting lineup today.
-Pruitt did a little better, but still needs to get back to his old game from last year.
-Alexander is an awesome athlete, and a great addition to this team.
-Randle has a deep bruise on his leg, so he sat out with ice on his leg.
-Tis, Cole and DAvis looked good in the game.
The Illini defense was really solid in this game, holding OSU to horrible shooting for the game. Like last year, Illinois will win games with their defense this season. Rebounding by the team is very impressive also.
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
Illini lose to Duke in Maui Semi-final
This was a tough game to watch in person, not sure how it was on TV. I was even more amazed to look at the statistics after the game. BoxScore
Some observations:
-Randle looked good on offense and did a nice job on Singler.
-Alexander looked very athletic, and it hurt when he had to come out, since we had a hard time matching up with Duke's wings, Henderson in particular.
-Pruitt is amazingly struggling to finish short shots inside. Either he is a never going to the NBA, or the refs missed a lot of fouls. How can you make 4 of 12 shots when you play the post?
-Frazier plays tough as point guard and did not really give anything away to Paulus.
-Brock looks like he should start from his offense and defensive production. One more athlete in the lineup helps.
-Meacham had a rough shooting game, he will be better on other nights.
-Tisdale looks like a non-factor in a big game like this, still learning the offense and how to defend. Big potential, hopefully later this year.
-Cole sat on the bench, and we could have used his energy on offense and defense.
-Davis was brought in to guard some big guys from Duke, but did not give us much advantage. Good experience for him, though.
-McCamey is a good ball handler but had a tough night shooting the ball. He will get better as the year progresses.
The question for Weber: how will he get this team to be more effective on offense? Maybe he needs to try some new rotations, since we had a lot of dead time tonight, with a struggle to set up scores.
Some observations:
-Randle looked good on offense and did a nice job on Singler.
-Alexander looked very athletic, and it hurt when he had to come out, since we had a hard time matching up with Duke's wings, Henderson in particular.
-Pruitt is amazingly struggling to finish short shots inside. Either he is a never going to the NBA, or the refs missed a lot of fouls. How can you make 4 of 12 shots when you play the post?
-Frazier plays tough as point guard and did not really give anything away to Paulus.
-Brock looks like he should start from his offense and defensive production. One more athlete in the lineup helps.
-Meacham had a rough shooting game, he will be better on other nights.
-Tisdale looks like a non-factor in a big game like this, still learning the offense and how to defend. Big potential, hopefully later this year.
-Cole sat on the bench, and we could have used his energy on offense and defense.
-Davis was brought in to guard some big guys from Duke, but did not give us much advantage. Good experience for him, though.
-McCamey is a good ball handler but had a tough night shooting the ball. He will get better as the year progresses.
The question for Weber: how will he get this team to be more effective on offense? Maybe he needs to try some new rotations, since we had a lot of dead time tonight, with a struggle to set up scores.
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
Illini Fans at Maui Invitational
I think the comments from Brian Randle summarize it best:
"It was like a home game to be honest," Randle said. "I don't think any of use really understood how many fans we had down here. It was unbelievable, a big tribute to our fans."
Must Read Article by Andy Katz of ESPN
Here's a link to a really nice article on Weber and the Illini by Andy Katz of ESPN, where it details the recruiting gains and losses, Weber's character, and Weber's goal of getting back to the Final Four and trying to win a national championship for Illinois "the right way." Great press for recruits.
Illini Roll over ASU in Maui Opener
Wow, what a great opening game out here in Maui for the Illini. We came out so tough at the start, it was incredible intensity on defense and great energy and shooting on offense. Weber went deep into the bench, which really makes sense with three games in three days. I really like Weber's strategy tonight, avoiding foul trouble by going deep.
Box Score
I think this game shows that Illinois is a dangerous team this year, with great depth, tough defense and some offense to go along with everything else. Alexander was a great pick up from the Junior College ranks with his shooting. Randle is back to his potential self, and Frazier and McCamey look good running the offense. Pruitt is tough like last year, but better.
I saw Coach Weber before the game going to the beach. It's nice to see that he takes time to spend with his family on a trip like this to Hawaii. As it turns out, he had his team ready to face ASU.
I sat by a nice OSU fan today for several games. OSU looks very athletic, and could knock off Marquette if they play a full game tomorrow. The Illini had the most fans in attendence of all 8 teams, based on my unofficial observations. We were loud as well, making sure the refs were paying attention to the game.
Box Score
I think this game shows that Illinois is a dangerous team this year, with great depth, tough defense and some offense to go along with everything else. Alexander was a great pick up from the Junior College ranks with his shooting. Randle is back to his potential self, and Frazier and McCamey look good running the offense. Pruitt is tough like last year, but better.
I saw Coach Weber before the game going to the beach. It's nice to see that he takes time to spend with his family on a trip like this to Hawaii. As it turns out, he had his team ready to face ASU.
I sat by a nice OSU fan today for several games. OSU looks very athletic, and could knock off Marquette if they play a full game tomorrow. The Illini had the most fans in attendence of all 8 teams, based on my unofficial observations. We were loud as well, making sure the refs were paying attention to the game.
Sunday, November 18, 2007
Sunday in Maui at the Invitational
It's Sunday in Maui and we are hanging out at the Hyatt, looking forward to the games starting tomorrow. The Princeton, Duke and Chaminade teams seem to be staying in this hotel, as well as many of their fans. I think the Illini are staying at the Sheraton, so wrong hotel, but at least the swimming pools are nice here.
This morning, there was an event at the Westin with all 8 head coaches teamed up with some local kids for a free throw shooting contest. The winner was Duke's head coach Mike K., who was 3 for 3 (all net!). The Princeton coach was also 3 for 3, and the others mostly struggled. Coach Weber showed why the Illini struggle from the line, with his 1 for 3 performance (33%). The event was all about mixing with the local school kids and some donations for the schools, but Coach K was all business out there at the line. Watch out for them in the tourney this week.
I will post some photos of this event as time permits.
Saturday, November 17, 2007
In Hawaii and ready for the Maui Invitational to begin
Just a few minutes to post here from Wailea. We stayed at the beautiful Four Seasons for a night to see the property, and are now heading to the Hyatt for the week.
Michael Jordan has been spotted in Maui, so he will be at the games this week to watch his son Jeff. In checking out the Maui Invitational program, I noticed Jeff is celebrating his birthday tomorrow, so it's not surprising Dad made the trip!
Lots of Illini grads are here in Wailea that aren't even going to the basketball games, can you believe that?
The Four Seasons is quite a nice hotel, the rooms, beach and dining are fantastic. I wish we were here all week, but it's too long of a drive to the Lahaina Civic Center.
Michael Jordan has been spotted in Maui, so he will be at the games this week to watch his son Jeff. In checking out the Maui Invitational program, I noticed Jeff is celebrating his birthday tomorrow, so it's not surprising Dad made the trip!
Lots of Illini grads are here in Wailea that aren't even going to the basketball games, can you believe that?
The Four Seasons is quite a nice hotel, the rooms, beach and dining are fantastic. I wish we were here all week, but it's too long of a drive to the Lahaina Civic Center.
Sunday, November 11, 2007
Northeastern Recap
The Illini were shaky throughout the opening game, but were able to put away Northeastern after building a large lead early in the second half. All of the Illini played except Brian Carlwell and Rich Semrau. Box Score
The Illini are picking up where they left off last year, with Shaun Pruitt struggling with completing his layups (contributing to many offensive boards), and very little scoring from Chet Frazier. Brian Randle seems to be healthy again, but still gets into foul trouble. Foul shooting remains poor.
On the offensive end, Rodney Alexander can contribute this year, and seems like he will be a starter. Contributing off the bench were Steve Holdren and Bill Cole. Weber will need to play these offensively-minded players to avoid long stretches of low scoring by the Illini.
After much speculation about redshirting some players, the only player who were held out were Carlwell and Semrau, who will have to work their way into the lineup. These big frontline players might have a better chance to contribute during the Big 10 season, when the play is more physical, and foul trouble is more likely.
The Illini are picking up where they left off last year, with Shaun Pruitt struggling with completing his layups (contributing to many offensive boards), and very little scoring from Chet Frazier. Brian Randle seems to be healthy again, but still gets into foul trouble. Foul shooting remains poor.
On the offensive end, Rodney Alexander can contribute this year, and seems like he will be a starter. Contributing off the bench were Steve Holdren and Bill Cole. Weber will need to play these offensively-minded players to avoid long stretches of low scoring by the Illini.
After much speculation about redshirting some players, the only player who were held out were Carlwell and Semrau, who will have to work their way into the lineup. These big frontline players might have a better chance to contribute during the Big 10 season, when the play is more physical, and foul trouble is more likely.
Northeastern Game at Halftime
The game is actually available on TalkRadio1190.
First half observations:
-The team continues to be offensively challenged, like last year's team. This year there is some hope for scoring punch, with Alexander starting, Holdren off the bench and Cole off the bench.
-Pruitt mainly shoots from inside, but continues to miss lots of shots, and was only 2 of 10 in the first half, OUCH!
-Randle is healthy, but got in foul trouble early, so he was benched with two fouls.
-Cole, Tisdale and Davis all played, so none of them can be red-shirted.
-Players held out of the first half are Jordan, Carlwell and Semrau.
First half observations:
-The team continues to be offensively challenged, like last year's team. This year there is some hope for scoring punch, with Alexander starting, Holdren off the bench and Cole off the bench.
-Pruitt mainly shoots from inside, but continues to miss lots of shots, and was only 2 of 10 in the first half, OUCH!
-Randle is healthy, but got in foul trouble early, so he was benched with two fouls.
-Cole, Tisdale and Davis all played, so none of them can be red-shirted.
-Players held out of the first half are Jordan, Carlwell and Semrau.
Starting Line-up for the Illini Today
If the articles quoting Bruce Weber are correct, the starting line-up for the Illini will be:
Shaun Pruitt
Brian Randle
Chet Frazier
Trent Meacham
Rodney Alexander or Bill Cole
This confirms my observations about Bill Cole--he really looks solid in many ways.
Shaun Pruitt
Brian Randle
Chet Frazier
Trent Meacham
Rodney Alexander or Bill Cole
This confirms my observations about Bill Cole--he really looks solid in many ways.
Illini Northeastern Preview and TV Coverage
Basketball regular season is finally here, and Weber's dozen or so basketball players have Northeastern in Champaign for their first real game. For those of you who don't follow the Colonial Athletic Conference closely, here's some information on Northeastern:
-Northeastern is picked #8 out of 12 teams in the CAA this season, per Sporting News. While this might seem low, keep in mind the CAA has some excellent basketball programs, including VCU, George Mason, Hofstra, Old Dominion and Drexel.
-Northeastern finished strong last season, winning six of their last eight games, and had a record of 13-19 overall.
-Northeastern has two transfers that are eligible this season, forward Chris Alvarez from Dayton (must have played with Trent Meacham for a season) and center Nkem Ojougboh from Texas-San Antonio. Northeastern has the CAA rookie of the year from last season, Matt Janning, who averaged 11.6 ppg. So the Illini front line might be tested this game.
From the Illini standpoint, it will be interesting to see the rotation of players and how deep in the bench Weber can reach. First, we have lots of guys who can play this year. Second, the early games will hint at who might by red-shirted, if anyone.
Finally, look for indications on the starting line-up, improvement from Shaun Pruitt and Chet Frazier, and the health of Brian Randle. Weber's recent comments make it clear that Cole will be in the rotation, and Meacham will be starting.
Coverage of the game is sketchy at best. I think if you have the right broadband provider (I don't), you can watch it on the web at ESPN360.
-Northeastern is picked #8 out of 12 teams in the CAA this season, per Sporting News. While this might seem low, keep in mind the CAA has some excellent basketball programs, including VCU, George Mason, Hofstra, Old Dominion and Drexel.
-Northeastern finished strong last season, winning six of their last eight games, and had a record of 13-19 overall.
-Northeastern has two transfers that are eligible this season, forward Chris Alvarez from Dayton (must have played with Trent Meacham for a season) and center Nkem Ojougboh from Texas-San Antonio. Northeastern has the CAA rookie of the year from last season, Matt Janning, who averaged 11.6 ppg. So the Illini front line might be tested this game.
From the Illini standpoint, it will be interesting to see the rotation of players and how deep in the bench Weber can reach. First, we have lots of guys who can play this year. Second, the early games will hint at who might by red-shirted, if anyone.
Finally, look for indications on the starting line-up, improvement from Shaun Pruitt and Chet Frazier, and the health of Brian Randle. Weber's recent comments make it clear that Cole will be in the rotation, and Meacham will be starting.
Coverage of the game is sketchy at best. I think if you have the right broadband provider (I don't), you can watch it on the web at ESPN360.
Juice on Saturday
Ok, I normally restrict my comments to Illini basketball, but after knocking off the Ohio State Buckeyes yesterday, a few comments on football are in order.
1. Ron Guenther looks brilliant as the Illini AD, because Ron Zook is now one of the hottest coaches in America, not just from a recruiting standpoint, but with the results on the field. His recruiting will only improve from here, and the next two years could be really interesting with the guys coming back.
2. The quarterback debate has officially ended, with Juice Williams having an outstanding game as QB of the Illini. I must admit to liking McGee's passing abilities earlier this season, but Juice showed some nice touch on several TD passes Saturday. And his running game to run out the clock in the fourth quarter was truly impressive.
3. The Illini secondary need to get a game ball for their three interceptions against OSU, which really were key to the win.
The Illini need to beat Northwestern, and they could be looking at a nice bowl game to finish up the year. Nice job, Zooker!
Also, thanks for giving a scholarship to Mr. Jackson, which helps out Coach Weber in his recruiting by opening up another slot.
1. Ron Guenther looks brilliant as the Illini AD, because Ron Zook is now one of the hottest coaches in America, not just from a recruiting standpoint, but with the results on the field. His recruiting will only improve from here, and the next two years could be really interesting with the guys coming back.
2. The quarterback debate has officially ended, with Juice Williams having an outstanding game as QB of the Illini. I must admit to liking McGee's passing abilities earlier this season, but Juice showed some nice touch on several TD passes Saturday. And his running game to run out the clock in the fourth quarter was truly impressive.
3. The Illini secondary need to get a game ball for their three interceptions against OSU, which really were key to the win.
The Illini need to beat Northwestern, and they could be looking at a nice bowl game to finish up the year. Nice job, Zooker!
Also, thanks for giving a scholarship to Mr. Jackson, which helps out Coach Weber in his recruiting by opening up another slot.
Friday, November 9, 2007
Redshirts and Bill Cole
Paul Klee has some interesting observations from Weber in his blog. Key comments include Weber is likely to play everyone, but is still considering a redshirt for someone. We will need to watch the games and see who doesn't play.
Bill Cole seems to have worked himself into the rotation of 8 or 9 players, and could even start in place of Alexander. Many people assumed Cole would be a redshirt based on his shoulder injury earlier, but he seems to have impressed Weber with his defense, activity in the motion offense, and general level of play. He does remind me of Lucas Johnson.
Bill Cole seems to have worked himself into the rotation of 8 or 9 players, and could even start in place of Alexander. Many people assumed Cole would be a redshirt based on his shoulder injury earlier, but he seems to have impressed Weber with his defense, activity in the motion offense, and general level of play. He does remind me of Lucas Johnson.
Segment on Jeff Jordan at Illinois
In case you missed it, the piece on Jeff Jordan and his Dad was nicely done and fun to watch. Great PR for the Illini basketball program and Bruce Weber. The weak part was Matt Lauer trying to make a headline or theme for the story about how much pressure Jeff Jordan must feel, since the fans expect him to play like his father. Anyone who knows anything about Jeff Jordan knows that he is projected as a guy who won't play much his freshman year, but might develop into a nice player over the next couple of seasons. If he was a carbon copy of his Dad, he would have been a five star recruit with a full ride at any major program. Lauer has very low journalism standards, but the segment was still fun to watch.
Wednesday, November 7, 2007
The Today Show with the Jordans
Note to my Tivo machine:
Remember to record the Today Show this Friday morning around 8:30am Central time, which should be 6:30am Pacific time. I know it's not one of my "favorites", but Katie Couric has left the show, and there will be a segment on Illini basketball, featuring Michael Jordan, Jeff Jordan and Bruce Weber. Could be a nice infomercial for recruiting purposes, like the Duke/American Express commercial.....
Remember to record the Today Show this Friday morning around 8:30am Central time, which should be 6:30am Pacific time. I know it's not one of my "favorites", but Katie Couric has left the show, and there will be a segment on Illini basketball, featuring Michael Jordan, Jeff Jordan and Bruce Weber. Could be a nice infomercial for recruiting purposes, like the Duke/American Express commercial.....
To Redshirt or Not to Redshirt
I have a novel idea for Bruce Weber. He should not redshirt anyone this year. The reasons are obvious and easy to understand:
1. If the Illini have injuries like last year, they will still have plenty of guys to practice and play.
2. Rather than worry about Randle and Pruitt fouling out, the Illini can substitute freely and not have anyone get five fouls (other than Carlwell, but that's another story).
3. With Pruitt and Randle leaving next year, Weber needs to get game experience for all of the newer "bigs" including Semrau, Tisdale, Cole, and Davis. Otherwise, we are due for a huge disappointment next year if we have all inexperienced big men.
4. Since the trend is for guys to leave college in 1, 2 or 3 years, why buck the trend by trying to make guys stay for 5 years?
5. Carlwell looks like he will struggle this season, so we need the young guys to be eligible to play.
The main issue I see is having so many players that it is impossible to use them all. Has any team in the NCAA ever used a rotation of 11, 12 or 13 players? Not likely. I understand the rotation issue, but I think Bruce needs to do what is best for the team, by retaining flexibility this year.
1. If the Illini have injuries like last year, they will still have plenty of guys to practice and play.
2. Rather than worry about Randle and Pruitt fouling out, the Illini can substitute freely and not have anyone get five fouls (other than Carlwell, but that's another story).
3. With Pruitt and Randle leaving next year, Weber needs to get game experience for all of the newer "bigs" including Semrau, Tisdale, Cole, and Davis. Otherwise, we are due for a huge disappointment next year if we have all inexperienced big men.
4. Since the trend is for guys to leave college in 1, 2 or 3 years, why buck the trend by trying to make guys stay for 5 years?
5. Carlwell looks like he will struggle this season, so we need the young guys to be eligible to play.
The main issue I see is having so many players that it is impossible to use them all. Has any team in the NCAA ever used a rotation of 11, 12 or 13 players? Not likely. I understand the rotation issue, but I think Bruce needs to do what is best for the team, by retaining flexibility this year.
Last and Final Exhibition Game
I finally got a chance to watch the final exhibition game against Kentucky Weslyan tonight. Thank goodness the Illni are able to match up against Division II opponents, unlike MSU and OSU recently. A few observations on the likely starters this season:
1. Either Brian Randle is back for a solid senior year, or he needs to transfer to a Division II program. Basically, this is his season.
2. Shaun Pruitt might have improved from last year. I'm still not envisioning him in a NBA uniform (Europe seems more likely to me), but he should have a really solid senior season as well.
3. Meacham looks like one of the better walk-ons this year, and should probably start until someone takes his job at the two guard position.
4. Frazier looks like the starting point guard until McCamey takes the job away, which might not happen this season.
5. I'm not sure who the fifth starter is, but I would put my money on Calvin Brock right now.
I really like some of the new big guys on the Illini roster this year, namely Tisdale, Cole, and Davis. I think Semrau looks big and strong, plays good defense and rebounds, so he could back up Pruitt as necessary. Alexander plays more like a guard, and should be fine once he settles into the motion offense.
I think the Illini will be a tough match-up this year, due to their team defense, rebounding, depth at all positions, experienced starters, and size.
The biggest weakness of the team is pure shooters. Hopeful shooters are Meacham, Alexander, Holdren and Davis in the absence of Jamar Smith, who is sitting out this year. The only shooter on the likely starting five is Meacham.
1. Either Brian Randle is back for a solid senior year, or he needs to transfer to a Division II program. Basically, this is his season.
2. Shaun Pruitt might have improved from last year. I'm still not envisioning him in a NBA uniform (Europe seems more likely to me), but he should have a really solid senior season as well.
3. Meacham looks like one of the better walk-ons this year, and should probably start until someone takes his job at the two guard position.
4. Frazier looks like the starting point guard until McCamey takes the job away, which might not happen this season.
5. I'm not sure who the fifth starter is, but I would put my money on Calvin Brock right now.
I really like some of the new big guys on the Illini roster this year, namely Tisdale, Cole, and Davis. I think Semrau looks big and strong, plays good defense and rebounds, so he could back up Pruitt as necessary. Alexander plays more like a guard, and should be fine once he settles into the motion offense.
I think the Illini will be a tough match-up this year, due to their team defense, rebounding, depth at all positions, experienced starters, and size.
The biggest weakness of the team is pure shooters. Hopeful shooters are Meacham, Alexander, Holdren and Davis in the absence of Jamar Smith, who is sitting out this year. The only shooter on the likely starting five is Meacham.
Thursday, November 1, 2007
Quincy Exhibition Game
It was great to watch the first exhibition game against Quincy, since I have not seen much of these younger Illini players, and it means the regular season is almost here. Some thoughts on the players:
Bill Cole has not been discussed much, but he is really active for a big guy, and showed he can shoot from long range, has good passing skills and can block some shots. He needs to add weight, but he actually impresses me with his movement and reminds me of a tall Lucas Johnson. I could see Bill Cole helping the team off the bench this year, even though he might be redshirted. I am optimistic about his future with the Illini.
Mike Davis showed he likes to get airborne, and he likes to dunk the ball. He showed some nice jump shots as well, and complements the others with his energy on the offensive end. I would like to see Davis play this year, even though he does not have a Big 10 body and needs to gain weight. The Illini have a huge upside with Davis.
McCamey is compared to Deron Williams, but he really reminds me of Bruce Douglas of Illini past. He could be the starting point guard by the end of the season rather than Frazier, but I don't see him as a shooting guard.
Rodney Alexander is a guy who definitely plays like a 3, not a 4, and is a nice addition this year. He is very active, quick, athletic, creates offense and can shoot and dunk the ball nicely. He seems ready to play and might be in the starting five this year.
Steven Holdren can shoot the ball, which is refreshing after last season when the Illini had trouble scoring. He plays like a 2 guard, has decent size, and is very active on the court. He could get lots of minutes this year if Weber gets comfortable with his defense.
Trent Meacham looks good and will probably get lots of minutes at shooting guard this year. He is really not a point guard, and should benefit from being at SG, which is a more natural position for him.
Jeff Jordan is young, but could develop into a capable point guard over time. He showed he can elevate, has good quickness and passing, and can hit jumpers when open. I think Jordan has been underrated by most people in terms of his potential. The more he plays, the quicker he will develop.
Tisdale looked OK, but was not as impressive in this exhibition as I expected. Tisdale has been discussed as ready to play this year, but I didn't really see that in this game. I will watch for more out of him in the next exhibition game.
Semrau looks like a center who specializes in defense, based on this exhibition game. He did not really show anything on offense, but seems to focus on the defensive end. He looks tall and big enough to back up Pruitt at center this year, but might not be able to score.
Carlwell looks like the guy most likely to redshirt this year, based strictly on this exhibition game. I know he would need to qualify for a medical redshirt, since he played in Canada, but this should be considered. Carlwell fouled out of the game, and looked bad when he could not finish his shot at the rim against some smaller players. Basically, he plays soft for a big guy, and his game needs much more development.
Randle looked healthy again, but his strength is still dunking, rather than outside shooting. Randle is an excellent defender, but my impression is that Alexander has a better offensive game at the 3.
Pruitt, Frazier and Brock had the night off, which is a smart move after all the injuries last year. Frazier still has his thumb immobilized from his injury.
In terms of guys to redshirt, I'm not convinced Cole and Davis are the right ones, based on this exhibition game. I liked both Cole and Davis, because they add so much on the offensive end of the court. I was least impressed by Carlwell and Semrau, but perhaps they are still held back from a physical standpoint. I would also consider Tisdale as a redshirt, since Semrau has the body to back up Pruitt in the Big 10, as does Carlwell.
This year's team almost looks like a football squad, with an offensive team and defensive team:
Offense
McCamey
Holdren
Alexander
Davis
Pruitt
Defense
Frazier
Meacham
Brock
Randle
Pruitt
It's unfortunate the players need to play both ways in basketball.
Bill Cole has not been discussed much, but he is really active for a big guy, and showed he can shoot from long range, has good passing skills and can block some shots. He needs to add weight, but he actually impresses me with his movement and reminds me of a tall Lucas Johnson. I could see Bill Cole helping the team off the bench this year, even though he might be redshirted. I am optimistic about his future with the Illini.
Mike Davis showed he likes to get airborne, and he likes to dunk the ball. He showed some nice jump shots as well, and complements the others with his energy on the offensive end. I would like to see Davis play this year, even though he does not have a Big 10 body and needs to gain weight. The Illini have a huge upside with Davis.
McCamey is compared to Deron Williams, but he really reminds me of Bruce Douglas of Illini past. He could be the starting point guard by the end of the season rather than Frazier, but I don't see him as a shooting guard.
Rodney Alexander is a guy who definitely plays like a 3, not a 4, and is a nice addition this year. He is very active, quick, athletic, creates offense and can shoot and dunk the ball nicely. He seems ready to play and might be in the starting five this year.
Steven Holdren can shoot the ball, which is refreshing after last season when the Illini had trouble scoring. He plays like a 2 guard, has decent size, and is very active on the court. He could get lots of minutes this year if Weber gets comfortable with his defense.
Trent Meacham looks good and will probably get lots of minutes at shooting guard this year. He is really not a point guard, and should benefit from being at SG, which is a more natural position for him.
Jeff Jordan is young, but could develop into a capable point guard over time. He showed he can elevate, has good quickness and passing, and can hit jumpers when open. I think Jordan has been underrated by most people in terms of his potential. The more he plays, the quicker he will develop.
Tisdale looked OK, but was not as impressive in this exhibition as I expected. Tisdale has been discussed as ready to play this year, but I didn't really see that in this game. I will watch for more out of him in the next exhibition game.
Semrau looks like a center who specializes in defense, based on this exhibition game. He did not really show anything on offense, but seems to focus on the defensive end. He looks tall and big enough to back up Pruitt at center this year, but might not be able to score.
Carlwell looks like the guy most likely to redshirt this year, based strictly on this exhibition game. I know he would need to qualify for a medical redshirt, since he played in Canada, but this should be considered. Carlwell fouled out of the game, and looked bad when he could not finish his shot at the rim against some smaller players. Basically, he plays soft for a big guy, and his game needs much more development.
Randle looked healthy again, but his strength is still dunking, rather than outside shooting. Randle is an excellent defender, but my impression is that Alexander has a better offensive game at the 3.
Pruitt, Frazier and Brock had the night off, which is a smart move after all the injuries last year. Frazier still has his thumb immobilized from his injury.
In terms of guys to redshirt, I'm not convinced Cole and Davis are the right ones, based on this exhibition game. I liked both Cole and Davis, because they add so much on the offensive end of the court. I was least impressed by Carlwell and Semrau, but perhaps they are still held back from a physical standpoint. I would also consider Tisdale as a redshirt, since Semrau has the body to back up Pruitt in the Big 10, as does Carlwell.
This year's team almost looks like a football squad, with an offensive team and defensive team:
Offense
McCamey
Holdren
Alexander
Davis
Pruitt
Defense
Frazier
Meacham
Brock
Randle
Pruitt
It's unfortunate the players need to play both ways in basketball.
Maui Invitational Tickets
The Maui Invitational is almost here, just two more weeks until I head to Hawaii for this great event. It seems closer because I received my tickets today in the mail. Even though they are not cheap at $120 per day for all games, it should be worth it with some high quality teams in the tourney this year.
My understanding is the Duke and Illinois games are sold out, and maybe more games have been sold out by now.
My understanding is the Duke and Illinois games are sold out, and maybe more games have been sold out by now.
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
Crandall Head to announce today or Wednesday
There's not much drama on this announcement, due to interviews by Crandall Head and the fact that he has not visited the other schools, but Crandall Head is expected to announce either today or tomorrow that he plans to attend the University of Illinois. There is not much information out there on Crandall, other than an article from the Sun-Times and that he looks very athletic (like his brother) and is a good student. Sounds like a nice early commitment for the Illini.
Sunday, October 28, 2007
Orange and Blue Scrimmage Today
Here are some unofficial scoring statistics courtesy of some fans who were at the game:
Randle 19
Alexander 17
Pruitt 14
Holdren 13
Meacham 12
Cole 11
Davis 8
Tisdale 8
McCamey 6
Jordan 6
Semrau 4
Brock 4
Carlwell 3
Hicks 2
Apparently Brian Randle is playing like Illini fans have never seen him, since he is healthy and able to shoot from the outside now. Alexander is reported to have excellent range on his shot, and is a scorer. Holdren continues to show he might be a big scorer for the Illini, as he did earlier on the Canada tour. Meacham and Holdren could be the leading scorers for the Illini in certain games this year as walk-ons, particularly if opponents play a zone.
Meanwhile, Cole and Davis are pushing the coaching staff to avoid being red-shirted for the season. Given situations like last year, with continual injuries to the Illini, I'm not sure sitting guys out makes much sense. However, Weber will struggle to find a way to develop a 12 or 13 man rotation this year.
Chester Frazier sat out of this game with a thumb injury, but should be OK for the regular season.
Daily Illini Coverage
Randle 19
Alexander 17
Pruitt 14
Holdren 13
Meacham 12
Cole 11
Davis 8
Tisdale 8
McCamey 6
Jordan 6
Semrau 4
Brock 4
Carlwell 3
Hicks 2
Apparently Brian Randle is playing like Illini fans have never seen him, since he is healthy and able to shoot from the outside now. Alexander is reported to have excellent range on his shot, and is a scorer. Holdren continues to show he might be a big scorer for the Illini, as he did earlier on the Canada tour. Meacham and Holdren could be the leading scorers for the Illini in certain games this year as walk-ons, particularly if opponents play a zone.
Meanwhile, Cole and Davis are pushing the coaching staff to avoid being red-shirted for the season. Given situations like last year, with continual injuries to the Illini, I'm not sure sitting guys out makes much sense. However, Weber will struggle to find a way to develop a 12 or 13 man rotation this year.
Chester Frazier sat out of this game with a thumb injury, but should be OK for the regular season.
Daily Illini Coverage
A Change of Scenery
I am experimenting with some new templates and should decide on something new soon, so please don't mind the changes in the look of the site. It's a new season, so we need a new look.
Illini Fans going to Maui Invitational
I just read on Scout that the Rusty Harpoon will be the official meetingplace for Illini fans in Maui.
I will be in Maui attending the games this year, and I plan to post photos, video clips and game comments each night, so please plan to check for updates on my site.
I will be in Maui attending the games this year, and I plan to post photos, video clips and game comments each night, so please plan to check for updates on my site.
Crandall Head to announce intentions this week
The information on Crandall Head's recruitment seems to be heating up this week. As discussed here earlier, Crandall Head is expected to announce a verbal commitment to Illinois this week, "maybe Tuesday or Wednesday."
This would be great news to add a fine prospect like Crandall Head to the 2010 class, and another boost to Howard and Weber's recruiting trend.
More about this later this week.
Mark Tupper's Comments
Klee's Comments
This would be great news to add a fine prospect like Crandall Head to the 2010 class, and another boost to Howard and Weber's recruiting trend.
More about this later this week.
Mark Tupper's Comments
Klee's Comments
Stan Simpson makes Chicago "All-Metro Team" for Sporting News
The Sporting News has its College Basketball preseason magazine out, and as part of the production, they name the top players in all of the large metropolitan areas, including Chicago. The "All-Metro" Team for Chicago is:
Michael Dunigan, Sr. Farragut
Ryan Hare, Sr. Marshall
Matt Humphrey, Sr, Hales Franciscan
Iman Shumpert, Sr, Oak Park-River Forest
Stan Simpson, Sr, Simeon
Congrats to Stan on being included in this great group of high school players in the Chicago area.
Michael Dunigan, Sr. Farragut
Ryan Hare, Sr. Marshall
Matt Humphrey, Sr, Hales Franciscan
Iman Shumpert, Sr, Oak Park-River Forest
Stan Simpson, Sr, Simeon
Congrats to Stan on being included in this great group of high school players in the Chicago area.
Crandall Head
Crandall Head is Luther Head's little brother. Crandall Head was spotted at the Ball State football game today, and is visiting Illinois. Many think Crandall Head will be the next verbal commitment to the Illini, since his brother did so well at Illinois, and the close relationship between Jerrance Howard and Luther Head. Some information about Crandall Head:
Class: 2010
High School: Rich South
Height: 6-3
Position: PG, SG
Strengths: Might be more athletic that older brother Luther
Class: 2010
High School: Rich South
Height: 6-3
Position: PG, SG
Strengths: Might be more athletic that older brother Luther
Saturday, October 27, 2007
Illini Basketball Exhibition Games to be Televised
For the first time, the Illini exhibition basketball games will be televised. The two games will be broadcast on the new Big Ten network, which is great news if you can't be there in person.
October 31, Quincy, 8pm
November 6, Kentucky Wesleyan, 8pm
Both games will be on the Big Ten Network
October 31, Quincy, 8pm
November 6, Kentucky Wesleyan, 8pm
Both games will be on the Big Ten Network
Orange and Blue Scrimmage, Sunday at 5 pm
The first real scrimmage (I don't count the Illini Madness) is tomorrow at 5pm, and this sounds like a good one to watch. I was looking at the depth chart this week trying to figure out which guys will get playing time, and it really is crowded unless they redshirt a couple more guys or have injuries. It will be much different from last year for Coach Weber, since he should have plenty of combinations he can put on the floor.
Unlike some teams that are rebuilding, the Illini can put all a team of all seniors and juniors on the floor, so the new freshmen will have to earn a spot in the rotation.
Here's an article about the scrimmage from the Daily Illini.
Unlike some teams that are rebuilding, the Illini can put all a team of all seniors and juniors on the floor, so the new freshmen will have to earn a spot in the rotation.
Here's an article about the scrimmage from the Daily Illini.
Friday, October 26, 2007
New USA Today ESPN Coaches Poll (Preseason)
I'm in North Carolina right now, and the new Coaches poll is out, and the University of North Carolina is ranked number 1 in the country. The rest of the list:
2. UCLA
3. Memphis (they have a kid named Rose who might help)
4. Kansas (can Bill Self meet expectations this year?)
5. Georgetown
6. Louisville
7. Tennessee
8. Michigan State (Izzo's team should be back this year)
9. Indiana (some guy named Gordon is a freshman for them)
10. Washington State
11. Duke (likely Illini opponent in Maui)
12. Marquette (likely final round team in Maui)
13. Oregon
14. Gonzaga
15. Texas A&M
16. Texas
17. Arizona (on the Illini schedule again this year)
18. USC
19. Arkansas
20. Pittsburgh
21. Stanford
22. Kentucky
23. Southern Illinois
24. North Carolina State
25. Villanova
38. Illinois (low expectations for the Illini this year, but maybe they can surprise some people, with some early tough opponents scheduled.)
2. UCLA
3. Memphis (they have a kid named Rose who might help)
4. Kansas (can Bill Self meet expectations this year?)
5. Georgetown
6. Louisville
7. Tennessee
8. Michigan State (Izzo's team should be back this year)
9. Indiana (some guy named Gordon is a freshman for them)
10. Washington State
11. Duke (likely Illini opponent in Maui)
12. Marquette (likely final round team in Maui)
13. Oregon
14. Gonzaga
15. Texas A&M
16. Texas
17. Arizona (on the Illini schedule again this year)
18. USC
19. Arkansas
20. Pittsburgh
21. Stanford
22. Kentucky
23. Southern Illinois
24. North Carolina State
25. Villanova
38. Illinois (low expectations for the Illini this year, but maybe they can surprise some people, with some early tough opponents scheduled.)
Monday, October 22, 2007
Article about Demetri McCamey
Courtesy of Scout.com, here's an article with some optimistic comments by Demetri McCamey. Apparently, he is working on the his outside shot, hopes to work himself into the starting lineup, and the team's goal is to win the Big 10 this year. If McCamey, Frazier and Randle can hit threes, I can see the Illini challenging for the conference title.
Sunday, October 21, 2007
2008 Recruit Justin Watts from Durham, NC
Justin Watts is a three star recruit that the Illini are interested in and according to Scout.com, he has a scholarship offer from the Illini. Watts is a very athletic combo guard who is 6-4, has good vertical and outside shooting ability. There is not much recent news on the web about Justin Watts, but I have a hunch he is seriously considering taking the last Illini basketball scholarship for 2008. This would make sense for Watts, since the Illini represent an outstanding opportunity to develop his guard skills under Weber, with Big Ten competition, in a program that can elevate a player, particularly athletic guards. For the Illini, they have mostly big men and point guards, and need help in wing players that can shoot. Also, Coach Weber likes to play three guards on occasion, and this would be possible with the 2009 class that is coming.
I will look for some news from Justin Watts very soon on his college selection.
I will look for some news from Justin Watts very soon on his college selection.
Justin Watts goes up for the flush
I think Justin Watts is still an uncommitted recruit from the 2008 class. Here he is dunking for his high school team in Durham, NC.
Friday, October 19, 2007
Additional Coverage of High School Games Coming
This season I hope to have some coverage of the high school games of Brandon Paul and Jereme Richmond. One of my fellow alumni of the University of Illinois is considering volunteering to watch some of these games and report on the progress of these recruits. If we can get some exclusive photos and video, I will add those to the site as well. More information will be posted on this.
Additional Maui Invitational TIckets going on sale October 24th
Basketball fans that can make it to Hawaii, please note this update regarding tickets. I will be there cheering on the Illini basketball team.
MAUI, Hawaii, Oct. 19, 2007 – The 2007 EA SPORTSTM Maui Invitational® Hosted by Chaminade today announced that additional All-Day East End General Admission Tickets will go on sale to the general public on Wednesday, Oct. 24 at 9 a.m. Hawaii time (3 p.m. Eastern time). A limited number of Single-Game Tickets for all of the tournament games (with the exception of Game 8, the second semifinal game) will also be available.
• Game 1 – Chaminade vs. Marquette
• Game 2 – LSU vs. Oklahoma State
• Game 3 – Princeton vs. Duke
• Game 4 – Arizona State vs. Illinois
• Game 5 – Consolation (Loser of Game 1 vs. Loser of Game 2)
• Game 6 – Consolation (Loser of Game 3 vs. Loser of Game 4)
• Game 7 – Semifinal (Winner of Game 1 vs. Winner of Game 2)
• Game 9 – Fifth-place game
• Game 10 – Third-place game
• Game 11 – Seventh-place game
• Game 12 - Championship
Fans can also take advantage of the following tickets right now:
• Remaining Booster Tickets for Arizona State, Chaminade, LSU, Marquette, Oklahoma State and Princeton. Booster Tickets are good for entry to all three tournament games in which the particular school will participate.
• Remaining Courtside Booster Tickets for Arizona State, Chaminade, LSU, Marquette and Princeton. These tickets allow entry to all three of a particular team’s tournament games along with access to the Stadium Club, an exclusive catered area featuring food and beverage, table seating and television access.
All of the aforementioned tickets can only be purchased through the official tournament Web site at http://www.mauiinvitational.com.
Duke, Marquette, Illinois, Arizona State, LSU, Oklahoma State, Princeton and host Chaminade will vie for 2007 EA SPORTS Maui Invitational title Nov. 19-21 at Maui’s Lahaina Civic Center. ESPN, ESPN2 and ESPNU will again combine to offer live coverage of all 12 games of the nation’s premier early-season college basketball tournament.
EA SPORTSTM, the world’s leading interactive entertainment software company and developer of the top-selling NCAA® March Madness® videogame, enters its seventh year as title sponsor of the Maui Invitational.
Other tournament sponsors include the Maui Visitors Bureau, County of Maui Department of Parks and Recreation, Hawaii Tourism Authority, adidas, GEICO and Gatorade. The Westin Maui Resort & Spa, Sheraton Maui Resort and Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa, all from the beautiful Ka’anapali Beach resort area, serve as host hotels for the thousands of fans and boosters who annually accompany their teams to Maui. Northbrook, Ill.-based KemperSports has operated the EA SPORTS Maui Invitational since 1990.
For the 2007 tournament bracket with game days and times as well as the latest tournament schedule, ticket and general information, visit the official EA SPORTS Maui Invitational Web site at http://www.mauiinvitational.com.
Note: The On-site Tournament Box Office (Lahaina Civic Center) opens Friday, Nov. 16 at 9 a.m. (Hawaiian time). The Box Office will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. throughout the weekend, and on tournament days (Nov. 19-21) from 8 a.m. to the end of the last game. Ticket sales are in-person or by phone at 808.667.DUNK (3865).
About KemperSports
KemperSports Marketing & Communications, an affiliate of Northbrook, Ill.-based KemperSports, is a sports marketing, events and public relations agency, which has produced and managed major national and international events and communications programs, including the EA SPORTS Maui Invitational college basketball tournament and numerous PGA TOUR events. For more information, visit http://www.kempersports.com.
MAUI, Hawaii, Oct. 19, 2007 – The 2007 EA SPORTSTM Maui Invitational® Hosted by Chaminade today announced that additional All-Day East End General Admission Tickets will go on sale to the general public on Wednesday, Oct. 24 at 9 a.m. Hawaii time (3 p.m. Eastern time). A limited number of Single-Game Tickets for all of the tournament games (with the exception of Game 8, the second semifinal game) will also be available.
• Game 1 – Chaminade vs. Marquette
• Game 2 – LSU vs. Oklahoma State
• Game 3 – Princeton vs. Duke
• Game 4 – Arizona State vs. Illinois
• Game 5 – Consolation (Loser of Game 1 vs. Loser of Game 2)
• Game 6 – Consolation (Loser of Game 3 vs. Loser of Game 4)
• Game 7 – Semifinal (Winner of Game 1 vs. Winner of Game 2)
• Game 9 – Fifth-place game
• Game 10 – Third-place game
• Game 11 – Seventh-place game
• Game 12 - Championship
Fans can also take advantage of the following tickets right now:
• Remaining Booster Tickets for Arizona State, Chaminade, LSU, Marquette, Oklahoma State and Princeton. Booster Tickets are good for entry to all three tournament games in which the particular school will participate.
• Remaining Courtside Booster Tickets for Arizona State, Chaminade, LSU, Marquette and Princeton. These tickets allow entry to all three of a particular team’s tournament games along with access to the Stadium Club, an exclusive catered area featuring food and beverage, table seating and television access.
All of the aforementioned tickets can only be purchased through the official tournament Web site at http://www.mauiinvitational.com.
Duke, Marquette, Illinois, Arizona State, LSU, Oklahoma State, Princeton and host Chaminade will vie for 2007 EA SPORTS Maui Invitational title Nov. 19-21 at Maui’s Lahaina Civic Center. ESPN, ESPN2 and ESPNU will again combine to offer live coverage of all 12 games of the nation’s premier early-season college basketball tournament.
EA SPORTSTM, the world’s leading interactive entertainment software company and developer of the top-selling NCAA® March Madness® videogame, enters its seventh year as title sponsor of the Maui Invitational.
Other tournament sponsors include the Maui Visitors Bureau, County of Maui Department of Parks and Recreation, Hawaii Tourism Authority, adidas, GEICO and Gatorade. The Westin Maui Resort & Spa, Sheraton Maui Resort and Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa, all from the beautiful Ka’anapali Beach resort area, serve as host hotels for the thousands of fans and boosters who annually accompany their teams to Maui. Northbrook, Ill.-based KemperSports has operated the EA SPORTS Maui Invitational since 1990.
For the 2007 tournament bracket with game days and times as well as the latest tournament schedule, ticket and general information, visit the official EA SPORTS Maui Invitational Web site at http://www.mauiinvitational.com.
Note: The On-site Tournament Box Office (Lahaina Civic Center) opens Friday, Nov. 16 at 9 a.m. (Hawaiian time). The Box Office will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. throughout the weekend, and on tournament days (Nov. 19-21) from 8 a.m. to the end of the last game. Ticket sales are in-person or by phone at 808.667.DUNK (3865).
About KemperSports
KemperSports Marketing & Communications, an affiliate of Northbrook, Ill.-based KemperSports, is a sports marketing, events and public relations agency, which has produced and managed major national and international events and communications programs, including the EA SPORTS Maui Invitational college basketball tournament and numerous PGA TOUR events. For more information, visit http://www.kempersports.com.
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
Kent Benson on Sampson
Kent Benson, the All-American center who was a star on the famous Indiana basketball squad of 1976, with an undefeated record, came out earlier this week against Coach Sampson. Quote from the Indy Star article, “I’m absolutely, totally embarrassed for the Indiana basketball program,” Benson said. “They need to do the right thing. If no tolerance means no tolerance, they get rid of him. And Greenspan should be right behind.”
Several other former IU players have weighed in on the subject.
Ted Kitchel, another former All-American who previously criticized Sampson’s hiring by saying he “wouldn’t hire that guy to coach my fifth-grade girls team,” said the new reports suggest Sampson does not believe rules apply to him.
Joe Hillman feels it is embarrassing to the program and the University.
Bobby Wilkerson is the one former IU player who continues to support Sampson, saying “All coaches advertently or inadvertently make those mistakes..."
Several other former IU players have weighed in on the subject.
Ted Kitchel, another former All-American who previously criticized Sampson’s hiring by saying he “wouldn’t hire that guy to coach my fifth-grade girls team,” said the new reports suggest Sampson does not believe rules apply to him.
Joe Hillman feels it is embarrassing to the program and the University.
Bobby Wilkerson is the one former IU player who continues to support Sampson, saying “All coaches advertently or inadvertently make those mistakes..."
Michael Jordan and Jeff Jordan on Today Show
I don't personally watch the Today Show, but I would like to see the show with Michael Jordan and his son, Jeff Jordan talking about Illini basketball (story)
According to the News-Gazette, the film crew from the Today Show was in Champaign on Monday filming Michael Jordan, Jeff Jordan and Bruce Weber at a workout.
Illini Talk is also talking about MJ and the Today Show.
Mark Tupper comments on the Today Show, Michael's Ferrari, and how he would save a seat at the Assembly Hall for Michael. I am saving a seat for Jordan at the Maui Invitational next month, if Michael has time to join us for the tourney. (Caution, MJ, Duke will be there.......)
This is really awesome PR for the Illini basketball program. Michael Jordan is the best player in NBA history, in my opinion.
According to the News-Gazette, the film crew from the Today Show was in Champaign on Monday filming Michael Jordan, Jeff Jordan and Bruce Weber at a workout.
Illini Talk is also talking about MJ and the Today Show.
Mark Tupper comments on the Today Show, Michael's Ferrari, and how he would save a seat at the Assembly Hall for Michael. I am saving a seat for Jordan at the Maui Invitational next month, if Michael has time to join us for the tourney. (Caution, MJ, Duke will be there.......)
This is really awesome PR for the Illini basketball program. Michael Jordan is the best player in NBA history, in my opinion.
Law Professor calls Indiana recruiting violations "major"
The Indianapolis newspapers are now full of negative articles about the Indiana basketball coaching staff, based on recent revelations about recruiting activites under coach Sampson. This article discloses that the phone calls by the IU coaching staff were actually 35 to 100 in number, and not the 10 that were widely discussed after the initial disclosure by the University.
IndyStar interviewed IUPUI law school dean Gary Roberts, who has some expertise in NCAA enforcement matters. Quoting from the story:
"The 10-member NCAA committee on infractions will decide whether to add further punishments. It could call a hearing to help decide the issue.
The committee is composed of three outside attorneys and seven school employees, including an athletic director, a conference commissioner and a law professor. When the infractions committee decided the Oklahoma case, it determined Sampson's rule-breaking was intentional, saying he "fostered an atmosphere of deliberate non-compliance." The committee added significantly to the self-imposed penalties.
Roberts said he can't predict how the infractions committee will react to the current case because it is apparently unprecedented. Instead of breaking a standard NCAA rule, Sampson broke restrictions imposed by the committee from a previous case.
"I don't even know how it's classified," Roberts said. "I assume it's a 'major' violation."
To the credit of IU basketball fans, many are calling for Sampson to be fired. For those of you who have not had a chance to attend a basketball game in Bloomington Indiana, I can attest that IU fans probably know the game of basketball better than any other fans, and are a very classy group. I attended a game there several years ago when they were defeated by the Illini, and came away very impressed.
IndyStar interviewed IUPUI law school dean Gary Roberts, who has some expertise in NCAA enforcement matters. Quoting from the story:
"The 10-member NCAA committee on infractions will decide whether to add further punishments. It could call a hearing to help decide the issue.
The committee is composed of three outside attorneys and seven school employees, including an athletic director, a conference commissioner and a law professor. When the infractions committee decided the Oklahoma case, it determined Sampson's rule-breaking was intentional, saying he "fostered an atmosphere of deliberate non-compliance." The committee added significantly to the self-imposed penalties.
Roberts said he can't predict how the infractions committee will react to the current case because it is apparently unprecedented. Instead of breaking a standard NCAA rule, Sampson broke restrictions imposed by the committee from a previous case.
"I don't even know how it's classified," Roberts said. "I assume it's a 'major' violation."
To the credit of IU basketball fans, many are calling for Sampson to be fired. For those of you who have not had a chance to attend a basketball game in Bloomington Indiana, I can attest that IU fans probably know the game of basketball better than any other fans, and are a very classy group. I attended a game there several years ago when they were defeated by the Illini, and came away very impressed.
Monday, October 15, 2007
Stan Simpson to join Illini Basketball
As expected here, Stan Simpson committed to Illinois basketball today, representing the first player recruited for the 2008 class. Now that he's an Illini, some background on Stan Simpson:
-Height is 6-10
-Weight is 220
-High School ball at Chicago Leo and Simeon
-Rated 3 stars by Rivals and Scout
-AAU team is Illinois Warriors
-Plays well with back to the basket
-Started playing basketball in high school, rapidly improving player
-Had offers from Arkansas, DePaul, Indiana and Virginia
Stan, welcome to Illini basketball, we are excited to have you for the class of 2008!
Scout Profile
Illinois Prep Bulls-eye
Rivals Summary
Sun-Times Article
Videos on the Web
The News-Gazette
-Height is 6-10
-Weight is 220
-High School ball at Chicago Leo and Simeon
-Rated 3 stars by Rivals and Scout
-AAU team is Illinois Warriors
-Plays well with back to the basket
-Started playing basketball in high school, rapidly improving player
-Had offers from Arkansas, DePaul, Indiana and Virginia
Stan, welcome to Illini basketball, we are excited to have you for the class of 2008!
Scout Profile
Illinois Prep Bulls-eye
Rivals Summary
Sun-Times Article
Videos on the Web
The News-Gazette
Sunday, October 14, 2007
Coach Sampson in Trouble Again
Well, the Indiana Hoosiers should have known Sampson would bring issues to their basketball program. After all, Sampson had problems following the NCAA rules at Oklahoma before he was hired by Indiana. Now, Sampson is reportedly had a third year of recruiting irregularities in the past three years. I will try to find some time to dig into this developing story, but in the meantime, try reading some columns from the Indy Star.
It will be interesting to see the reaction within the Big 10 conference, as well as the reaction from the NCAA, especially that of its President, Miles David Brand, who fired Bob Knight when he was President at Indiana University.
It will be interesting to see the reaction within the Big 10 conference, as well as the reaction from the NCAA, especially that of its President, Miles David Brand, who fired Bob Knight when he was President at Indiana University.
Saturday, October 13, 2007
Mike Tisdale
Mike Tisdale apparently has a 34 inch vertical jump and might be on the floor at times with Pruitt, since Mike has a nice shooting touch, good passing skills and a hook shot with either hand. Tisdale is mentioned very favorably in this Daily Herald article
Friday, October 12, 2007
News articles about new Illini Recruits
Here's a fairly positive article from the Sun-Times on the three new guards.
Favorable article in the Chicago Tribune, but they need to learn how to spell Weber (only one b guys.....)
Favorable article in the Chicago Tribune, but they need to learn how to spell Weber (only one b guys.....)
Jereme Richmond comments on new guards for 2009
Here's a nice article about Jereme's visit to the Illinois campus and his views of the three commitments from this past week.
Thursday, October 11, 2007
Joseph Bertrand Confirmed by Multiple Sources
OK, I am now convinced that Joseph Bertrand has committed to Illinois. It seems like Joseph's commitment was late in the day, but it is now being confirmed on multiple websites. See below stories on this third big commitment today. And there are rumors that a fourth is coming before the weekend is over, and the rumors are mostly centered around Stan Simpson from the Class of 2008.
Illinois Prep Bulls-Eye
Sun-Times
Interesting Article by Taylor Bell making today's commitments seem like no big deal
Joe Henricksen Comments on Today
Illinois Prep Bulls-Eye
Sun-Times
Interesting Article by Taylor Bell making today's commitments seem like no big deal
Joe Henricksen Comments on Today
Chicago Hoops Scoops Bertrand Annoucement
Joseph Bertrand is apparently also going to Illinois from the Class of 2009. I hope Brian Stinnett of Chicago Hoops is sure of this announcement. He seems to be the one with the breaking news. Read his story on Bertrand and this top notch class of 2009.
Bruce Weber is Reloading in 2009!
It looks like three big recruits for today, maybe one more tomorrow. The Illini Madness celebration should be really special this year, with the new recruits, the pink shirts and the new season ahead of us.
DJ Richardson
Brandon Paul
Joseph Bertrand
DJ Richardson
Brandon Paul
Joseph Bertrand
DJ Richardson confirmed by Scout
Here's an article from Scout.com that confirms the Richardson announcement. Story
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
DJ Richardson Profile from Rivals.com
DJ Richardson Summary and Rivals Profile
-Four Star Rated Player per Rivals
-Height is 6-3
-Weight is 170
-Class of 2009
-Shooting Guard, ranked #9 nationally at SG
-Ranked #54 for the 2009 Class
-From Peoria, IL
MidStateHoops.com Presents Joseph Bertrand
Another guy the Illini are recruiting. This guy would be awesome to add for the class of 2009!
DJ Richardson expected to announce for Illini tomorrow
According to HOI 19 Sports, DJ Richardson is expected to announce he has selected Illinois for his college choice. This would confirm earlier rumors (following Jerrance Howard being hired as an assistant coach) that DJ is headed to play for the Illini.
This will be a huge boost to the Illini and Jerrance Howard and Bruce Weber tomorrow, since the past recruiting season has not been easy for the program, and DJ Richardson is a highly regarded shooting guard from Peoria. We will follow this one closely, but it sounds very positive. Apparently, Bruce Weber is headed to Peoria for the announcement tomorrow.
This will be a huge boost to the Illini and Jerrance Howard and Bruce Weber tomorrow, since the past recruiting season has not been easy for the program, and DJ Richardson is a highly regarded shooting guard from Peoria. We will follow this one closely, but it sounds very positive. Apparently, Bruce Weber is headed to Peoria for the announcement tomorrow.
Monday, October 8, 2007
Nice Article about Chester Frazier's Background
Here is a long but very worthwhile article from the News-Gazette about Chester Frazier, his background and his relationship with his late father. If this article doesn't help you appreciate Chester Frazier, nothing will.
Insights from Paul Klee's Blog
According to Paul Klee's blog, Stan Simpson of Simeon was impressed during his campus visit to Champaign this past weekend, and will try to make a decision between Illinois and Arkansas in the next couple of weeks.
Also, Joseph Bertrand of Sterling, class of 2009 recruit, was on the Illinois campus for a visit today.
Also, Joseph Bertrand of Sterling, class of 2009 recruit, was on the Illinois campus for a visit today.
Sunday, October 7, 2007
Basketball Tickets on Sale this Month
For those of you excited about the upcoming basketball season, tickets go on sale this month.
Men's basketball single-game tickets will go on sale at 9 a.m., Oct. 29th. Individuals may order by phone (333-3470) or toll free at 866-ILLINI-1, in person at the Athletics Ticket Office (Assembly Hall) or online at www.fightingillini.com.
Let's fill up the Assembly Hall for all of the home games this year. Go Illini!
Men's basketball single-game tickets will go on sale at 9 a.m., Oct. 29th. Individuals may order by phone (333-3470) or toll free at 866-ILLINI-1, in person at the Athletics Ticket Office (Assembly Hall) or online at www.fightingillini.com.
Let's fill up the Assembly Hall for all of the home games this year. Go Illini!
Articles about Stan Simpson and DJ Richardson
Here are some interesting articles from Illinois Prep Bulls-eye about Stan Simpson and DJ Richardson. Bulls-eye thinks Illinois has a really good shot at landing both of them, but Richardson is expected to wait awhile before he commits. Article
Remaining 2008 Basketball Recruits
Assuming the Illini continue the hunt to sign someone from the 2008 class, the remaining possibilities that are known are as follows:
Devoe Joseph, a Canadian shooting guard that sounds a little like Jamar Smith from a basketball standpoint. Joseph is listing nine major programs with offers on Scout.com, so he seems like a longshot at this point.
Stan Simpson, a big man (6-9) from the Public League, visited campus this past weekend with his coach Robert Smith. Simpson would be a nice commitment, since we have no verbals yet for the class, and he is from Chicago's Simeon high school.
Renaldo Woolridge, a forward who is the son of Orlando Woolridge, has the Illini listed along with Georgetown, USC, Tennessee and Marquette. He seems like a longshot, but it would be nice to have two ex-Chicago Bulls in the stands next season. Profile
Verdell Jones, a big point guard prospect from Champaign Central, needs an offer from the Illini, and maybe they could land him. He lists Illinois, Kansas, Connecticut, Kentucky, Oregon, Texas, Virginia on Scout.com.
Justin Watts is a 6-4 shooting guard from Durham, North Carolina. He sounds like an awesome guy to land for this class. He lists Clemson, Georgia, Illinois, Virginia, East Carolina, Fairfield, George Mason, and Penn State, which make the Illini the best choice for basketball, although Virginia might also be a good one for him. Profile
Deividas Dulkys has an interesting name, and he plays shooting guard for Henderson, NV high school. He lists the following schools: California, Florida State, Miami (Fl), Oregon, San Diego State, Cincinnati, Illinois, Mississippi, Fresno State, Oregon State, and Tennessee. Scout Profile
The other way to go is redshirt two of the 2007 recruits, so that Bruce has a hybrid class of 2008. Plus, there are so many walk-ons with decent quality, we should be OK for awhile. The 2009 class in Illinois is very deep with guards, so maybe that is the year of the guard for us.
Devoe Joseph, a Canadian shooting guard that sounds a little like Jamar Smith from a basketball standpoint. Joseph is listing nine major programs with offers on Scout.com, so he seems like a longshot at this point.
Stan Simpson, a big man (6-9) from the Public League, visited campus this past weekend with his coach Robert Smith. Simpson would be a nice commitment, since we have no verbals yet for the class, and he is from Chicago's Simeon high school.
Renaldo Woolridge, a forward who is the son of Orlando Woolridge, has the Illini listed along with Georgetown, USC, Tennessee and Marquette. He seems like a longshot, but it would be nice to have two ex-Chicago Bulls in the stands next season. Profile
Verdell Jones, a big point guard prospect from Champaign Central, needs an offer from the Illini, and maybe they could land him. He lists Illinois, Kansas, Connecticut, Kentucky, Oregon, Texas, Virginia on Scout.com.
Justin Watts is a 6-4 shooting guard from Durham, North Carolina. He sounds like an awesome guy to land for this class. He lists Clemson, Georgia, Illinois, Virginia, East Carolina, Fairfield, George Mason, and Penn State, which make the Illini the best choice for basketball, although Virginia might also be a good one for him. Profile
Deividas Dulkys has an interesting name, and he plays shooting guard for Henderson, NV high school. He lists the following schools: California, Florida State, Miami (Fl), Oregon, San Diego State, Cincinnati, Illinois, Mississippi, Fresno State, Oregon State, and Tennessee. Scout Profile
The other way to go is redshirt two of the 2007 recruits, so that Bruce has a hybrid class of 2008. Plus, there are so many walk-ons with decent quality, we should be OK for awhile. The 2009 class in Illinois is very deep with guards, so maybe that is the year of the guard for us.
Tribune Article on Mario Little going to Kansas
This is really getting to be an old story, with recruit after recruit opting to go other places rather than Champaign, when it comes to basketball. The latest Tribune article about Mario Little's decision does not help recruiting in Chicago.
Mario Little to Kansas
Mario Little announced tonight that he is going to Kansas after all (story), as predicted here earlier.
It seems appropriate that Mario selected Kansas, based on their winning tradition, many opening slots for playing time next season, and Bill Self's incredible recruiting success when going up against Illinois.
It seems appropriate that Mario selected Kansas, based on their winning tradition, many opening slots for playing time next season, and Bill Self's incredible recruiting success when going up against Illinois.
Football Team now ranked 18th and 19th
The new rankings are out for football, and Illinois is now ranked 18th (AP) and 19th (USA Today), not bad for a program that has been in turnaround mode. Great job, Ron Zook and Ron Guenther!
Saturday, October 6, 2007
Weekend Wish List for Illini Fans
Good morning Illini Fans! It would be an awesome weekend if we could have all of the following:
-Saturday football victory over Wisconsin, game starts in about 10 minutes.
-Cubs victory over the Diamondbacks, avoid an embarrassing sweep in the playoffs.
-Verbal commitment from Mario Little on Sunday, first recruiting win over Bill Self of Kansas.
I'm not sure if any one of these is very realistic, however. Maybe the Cubs can win today.....I need to check who is pitching.
-Saturday football victory over Wisconsin, game starts in about 10 minutes.
-Cubs victory over the Diamondbacks, avoid an embarrassing sweep in the playoffs.
-Verbal commitment from Mario Little on Sunday, first recruiting win over Bill Self of Kansas.
I'm not sure if any one of these is very realistic, however. Maybe the Cubs can win today.....I need to check who is pitching.
Friday, October 5, 2007
McLaughlin Commits to Nevada
As expected, McLaughlin gave a verbal commitment to Nevada today according to Scout, apparently Nevada was in the lead the entire time. It is difficult to get the West Coast kids to come to Champaign, I guess.
Mark seems like a great recruit for Nevada, so good luck to you Mark.
Mark seems like a great recruit for Nevada, so good luck to you Mark.
Sounds like a Little Announcement on Sunday
Here's a hint that Mario Little will announce his decision on Sunday, according to an interview with his JC coach. Story
Wednesday, October 3, 2007
Latest Report on Mario Little
According to the Munster Indiana newspaper website nwi.com, the latest on Mario Little is as follows:
"WASHINGTON'S LITTLE CONSIDERS ILLINI: Illinois basketball coach Bruce Weber is waiting to hear from 6-foot-5 junior college recruit Mario Little, the Times Illinois Player of the Year at Washington for 2006 who has become an explosive wing player at Chipola Junior College in Florida.
Little visited campus this past weekend and is expected to choose between Kansas, Kansas State and Illinois.
Reports Tuesday indicated that Kansas State visited Little in Florida on Monday, with Kansas expected in on Tuesday. Weber is scheduled to see Little today before he makes his decision."
Website
"WASHINGTON'S LITTLE CONSIDERS ILLINI: Illinois basketball coach Bruce Weber is waiting to hear from 6-foot-5 junior college recruit Mario Little, the Times Illinois Player of the Year at Washington for 2006 who has become an explosive wing player at Chipola Junior College in Florida.
Little visited campus this past weekend and is expected to choose between Kansas, Kansas State and Illinois.
Reports Tuesday indicated that Kansas State visited Little in Florida on Monday, with Kansas expected in on Tuesday. Weber is scheduled to see Little today before he makes his decision."
Website
No announcement from Mario Little yet......
Tuesday and Wednesday have come and gone, with no announcement from Mr. Little. It is not surprising, since recent reports had him meeting with coaches from each of the three finalist schools on Tuesday and Wednesday, prior to making his decision. So the actual announcement of his decision would happen on Thursday, Friday or Saturday. I would not want to guess at this point.
Monday, October 1, 2007
Illini Madness 2007
Take a look at Bruce Weber in his pink Illini Madness t-shirt. This will be quite an event!
Click on the title for the official Illini Madness website and more information.
More information here
Mario Little's Decision this week........
So the word is Mario Little will make his decision this week between Kansas, Illinois and Kansas State. Mario visited Champaign over the past weekend, worked out with the players, watched the football game, and enjoyed the visit. Apparently, Jerrance Howard knows Mario Little, and both Jerrance and Bruce will be visiting Mario in Florida this week. Mario will also be seeing Kansas and Kansas State in Florida this week as he prepares to make this important decision about his future.
Some comments from a Kansas website.
Maybe the Illini have a chance here, but my gut still says it's Kansas.
Some comments from a Kansas website.
Maybe the Illini have a chance here, but my gut still says it's Kansas.
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