The Quarterfinals are in the books for Michigan High School basketball and the stage is set for the Final four in each bracket to be played at the Breslin Center on the campus of Michigan State University starting Thursday. I hope the weather Gods cooperate and allow me to get back from my business trip in time because I am excited about the games. Very few upsets in the Quarterfinals but the top team in Michigan and ranked #18 in USA Today national poll, Romulus, was beaten tonight, EASILY by Detroit Southeastern 73-51. Losing to Detroit SE I did not expect but could see, but this well coached, talented, deep team losing by 20 I don't understand. Detroit SE brings some serious talent in 6'6 swing guard Brandon Kearney (Michigan St) and 6'9' power forward, Percy Gibson (Dayton) who is a steal for the Flyers. They have quick guard play with Ed Brown being real quick. They deserve to be here but just didn't expect to see them handle Romulus so easy.
Defending State Champ Kalamazoo Central had a tougher game than I expected and needed overtime to beat Hudsonville 48-44.
The rest of the state will get to see the Michigan Gatorade High School basketball player of the year - 6'9' Junior Matt Costello (Michigan State) as Bay City Western advanced with an 11 point win over OLSM while Costello kicked in 31 of the teams 60.
Southfield rolled tonight and could be the hottest team (other than Lansing Sexton) in the tournament right now. They have some athletes on this team led by Michigan signee Carlton Brundidge.
East Grand Rapids gets upset in Class B by Dowagiac but the big game in Class B tonight was the Detroit Country Day win over Flint Powers Catholic in what must have been an outstanding game as DCD wins by a 67-64 margin. This will set up an unbelievable semi between DCD and Lansing Sexton.
Detroit Consortium won their contest over Saginaw Buena Vista and George Goodman in Class C. I am really looking forward to a potential championship game between Consortium and Beecher - that will be well worth the price of admission if it happens.
Class D saw one upset - Detroit Westside Christian knocked off Saginaw Michigan Lutheran Sem. We also have a great semi final matchup in this Class D between the #1 ranked Wyoming Tri-Unity and #2 Eber Junction Superior Cent.
This is like deja vu for some teams as they are returning from trips last year.
Class A - Southfield and Kalamazoo Central return with Kazoo defending their state title.
Class B - Three of the four teams return. Detroit Country Day looks to defend their state title while returnees Lansing Sexton and Muskegon Heights try to win it as well. Sexton met DCD in the finals last year but draw them in the Semi's this year.
Class C - Beecher is the only returnee and they lost in the semi's last year. That should not happen here this year.
Class D - Only Eber Junction Superior Cent is returning and hoping to fare better than their semi loss of a year ago. Tough draw though getting top ranked Wyoming Tri-Unity in the semi's.
Game times and matchups along with comments and predictions are below. Hope to see you there this Thursday thru Saturday.
Thursday Class C
Detroit Consortium vs. Schoolcraft 1:00 Consortium studs vs. Kody Chandler - Consortium wins this one
Flint Beecher vs. McBain 2:50 Monte Morris and Antuan Burks baby - Beecher wins this one
Thursday Class D
Wyoming Tri-Unity vs. Eber Junction 6:00 #1 vs. #2 - should be great game but Wyoming continues on
Fulton vs. Detroit Westside Christian 7:50 Fulton is real good
Friday Class A
Southfield vs. Kalamazoo Central 1:00 Great matchup - Southfield has better talent but Kzoo plays better team ball and is better coached
Bay City Western vs. Det Southeastern 2:50 Looking forward to this one. Costello against Gibson and Kearney. Edge to Det SE
Friday Class B
Country Day vs. Lansing Sexton 6:00 Best game of entire tournament - will be sold out. s/b the Championship game. Sexton wins it.
Muskegon Heights vs Dowagiac 7:50 Heights has Daevante Hudson - Looking forward to seeing him. Heights should win
Predictions
Saturday Class D Final
Wyoming Tri-Unity vs. Fulton 10:00 Should be good game - if anyone can beat Wyoming it would be this team. Wyoming gets back to where they use to be - on top.
Saturday Class C Final
Detroit Consortium vs. Flint Beecher 12:00 2nd best game of tournament - Consortium better talent but Beecher has experience and best sophomore guard in state - Beecher wins in upset
Saturday Class A Final
Southfield vs. Detroit Southeastern 4:00 Could be track meet. Great athleticism on the floor. I think Southfield has got it together and will upset Southeastern
Saturday Class B Final
Lansing Sexton vs. Muskegon Heights 8:00 Will be heading to the exits early as Sexton will kick some Heights tail.
That's it reporting live from New Jersey - Good night from your Basketball SNOB.
Link to Basketball webpage:
http://www.mhsaa.com/tabid/104/SportProfile/True/SportTypeCode/BB/Default.aspx
Ray McAllum
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Monday, March 21, 2011
Backyard Barbeque Burns Bruce Pearl
The waiting game is over and Bruce Pearl is out as head coach at Tennessee. Bruce Pearl was burned by his own Bar-b-que in his own backyard. Pearl hosted a backyard cookout at his home two years ago and invited some talented Junior High School players. One of which was previous Tennessee commit, Aaron Craft, who changed his commitment to Ohio State following the release of some of the pictures that showed his mug in attendance at Pearl's home. There were also additional allegations against Pearl who lied to the NCAA investigation committee. Following a very up and down season, one which had Pearl suspended for 8 games, and a miserable 30 point blowout to Michigan in the NCAA tournament, everyone knew it was just a matter of time. Make no mistake about the fact that people in Tennessee love Pearl and Pearl loves Tennessee but the administration could not afford anymore bad publicity centered around this charasmatic but questionable coach. I for one feel that we are not done hearing about allegations or infractions. Speaking of, why is it that Pearl gets penalized and punished but one of the players who broke the rules gets to play on and play at another school of his choice. The very talented Craft should also be held accountable. I know these are young kids but when you are that talented and playing AAU basketball all across the country, chances are you are going to get a D-1 scholarship and need to be tuned into the recruiting do's and don'ts. I for one feel that the players as well as the coaches should be penalized. I guess because it is all allegations at this point as to who was there, they get a pass but why not an investigation into "who". After all, Pearl could not be penalized unless we established who these kids were and what age they were and the purpose of being there. Well we will see no more flashy Mountain top Orange sportscoats for awhile while they look for a replacement. Look for VCU Shaka Smart to be one of the lead candidates. With his hot run with VCU and ACC backgorunds as roles with CLemson and Florida he knows the league and is familar to the bball players of the south.
Someone else I would like to see considered is Butler Brad Stevens
Rants and Raves:
Is anyone sick of Charles Barkley commentating.....eerrrr......I should say......spewing garbage from his mouth. Now I love Charles for the entertainment value he brings but in his own words......he is "turible, turible, turible". His ignorance for the college game and players really showed mightily when Kenny Smith felt so bad that he had to try and speak on behalf of Charles to articulate his points. Charles still tried to argue with Smith when Smith said, I am making your point Charles. DUH. He makes brash statements but has no substance behind what he speaks. He mentioned that the Big East is the Little East or Big Least, as they only have 2 teams remaining in the Sweet 16. Even though this is true, it does not diminish the fact that these teams deserved to be there based on strength of schedule, which includes non-conference games, RPI rating, wins and wins over ranked teams. Just because the Big East teams did not all fair well (don't forget two times they had to play each other in the tournament so they are virtually canabolizing themselves) in the tournament it does not take away from the entire body of work for the season. At one time, 8 big east teams were ranked in the top 20. The Big East has supreme talent that simply did not get it done in the tournament. Period. Nothing more to comment on or points to make.
Is is just me or does Greg Anthony have it out for the refs? Boy he was being very methodical and pointed with his questions and commments on the refs calls or intrepatations of the rules. I for one, feel these guys have an unbelievable tough job to do but it seems now, with instant reply, monitors, high technology, they have to get everything right or they get dinged. No one is perfect but I would say that these guys have done a pretty exceptional job. If you don't agree, try putting on the stripes and give it a try yourself. It may change your perspective.
Dwaun Anderson is Mr. Basketball in Michigan. I guess I am confused on what it represents or what you have to achieve to receive it. From my perspective, Anderson and his team did not live up to expectations. Anderson is talented, their is no question about that, in fact he is a human dunking highlight reel but lets not forget that his team finished 17-5 in a very average league that is dominated by Class C teams. They also lost in the beginning of the state tournament. Heck one of the leading scorers in the state, also from Class C - had a better individual and team season......George Goodman of Saginaw Buena Vista who play in the Class C quarterfinals tomorrow against #1 seed Detroit Consortium. Anderson is a talented 6'4 slasher guard that is an average ball handler and an average outside shooter. He can get to the basket like no ones business and score when he takes it there but he is mostly a transition player. I am beginning to believe that if you get a scholarship to Michigan St (Anderson did) then that gives you a leg up on the competition. If the award is for best performance, then I give it to LaDontae Henton of East Lansing, who finished second. He clearly had a better statistical year, exemplifies team player, hard work, determination and never say die attitude, who averaged double figures in scoring and rebounding against tough competition all year, he gets my vote. Amir Williams is another one that you could argue for. On one of the top teams in the state all year, the anchor to their offense and defense, with tremendous talent and upside and due to his size and progress, will be in the NBA. If you give the award based on most potential to have impact on a college team or ability to make it to the pro level, Williams is your man. Sorry Dwaun but the voters missed badly on this one this year. In case you are wondering and want to prove me wrong....then step in next year and help resurrect that sputtering Spartans. I would love to see him do this and prove me wrong.
Romulus - ranked #20 in the Country. Talented deep team that must get by the Jungaleers of Detroit Southeastern tomorrow night.
Unfortunately have to head out of town and will miss some great Quarterfinal matchups but will be back just in time to catch tip off at the first game on Thursday at 1 PM
Best Quarterfinal mathchups:
Romulus vs. Detroit Southeastern at Detroit Mercy Callahan Hall 7:30 Pm
Southfield vs East Detroit at Detroit Mercy Callahan Hall at 5:30 PM
Detroit Country Day vs. Flint Powers Catholic at Ferndale at 7 PM
Detroit Consortium vs Saginaw Buena Vista at West Bloomfield at 7 PM
Got to hit the hay, have to be up at 3:30 AM for a 5:45 AM flight.
Good night from your Basketball SNOB
Someone else I would like to see considered is Butler Brad Stevens
Rants and Raves:
Is anyone sick of Charles Barkley commentating.....eerrrr......I should say......spewing garbage from his mouth. Now I love Charles for the entertainment value he brings but in his own words......he is "turible, turible, turible". His ignorance for the college game and players really showed mightily when Kenny Smith felt so bad that he had to try and speak on behalf of Charles to articulate his points. Charles still tried to argue with Smith when Smith said, I am making your point Charles. DUH. He makes brash statements but has no substance behind what he speaks. He mentioned that the Big East is the Little East or Big Least, as they only have 2 teams remaining in the Sweet 16. Even though this is true, it does not diminish the fact that these teams deserved to be there based on strength of schedule, which includes non-conference games, RPI rating, wins and wins over ranked teams. Just because the Big East teams did not all fair well (don't forget two times they had to play each other in the tournament so they are virtually canabolizing themselves) in the tournament it does not take away from the entire body of work for the season. At one time, 8 big east teams were ranked in the top 20. The Big East has supreme talent that simply did not get it done in the tournament. Period. Nothing more to comment on or points to make.
Is is just me or does Greg Anthony have it out for the refs? Boy he was being very methodical and pointed with his questions and commments on the refs calls or intrepatations of the rules. I for one, feel these guys have an unbelievable tough job to do but it seems now, with instant reply, monitors, high technology, they have to get everything right or they get dinged. No one is perfect but I would say that these guys have done a pretty exceptional job. If you don't agree, try putting on the stripes and give it a try yourself. It may change your perspective.
Dwaun Anderson is Mr. Basketball in Michigan. I guess I am confused on what it represents or what you have to achieve to receive it. From my perspective, Anderson and his team did not live up to expectations. Anderson is talented, their is no question about that, in fact he is a human dunking highlight reel but lets not forget that his team finished 17-5 in a very average league that is dominated by Class C teams. They also lost in the beginning of the state tournament. Heck one of the leading scorers in the state, also from Class C - had a better individual and team season......George Goodman of Saginaw Buena Vista who play in the Class C quarterfinals tomorrow against #1 seed Detroit Consortium. Anderson is a talented 6'4 slasher guard that is an average ball handler and an average outside shooter. He can get to the basket like no ones business and score when he takes it there but he is mostly a transition player. I am beginning to believe that if you get a scholarship to Michigan St (Anderson did) then that gives you a leg up on the competition. If the award is for best performance, then I give it to LaDontae Henton of East Lansing, who finished second. He clearly had a better statistical year, exemplifies team player, hard work, determination and never say die attitude, who averaged double figures in scoring and rebounding against tough competition all year, he gets my vote. Amir Williams is another one that you could argue for. On one of the top teams in the state all year, the anchor to their offense and defense, with tremendous talent and upside and due to his size and progress, will be in the NBA. If you give the award based on most potential to have impact on a college team or ability to make it to the pro level, Williams is your man. Sorry Dwaun but the voters missed badly on this one this year. In case you are wondering and want to prove me wrong....then step in next year and help resurrect that sputtering Spartans. I would love to see him do this and prove me wrong.
Romulus - ranked #20 in the Country. Talented deep team that must get by the Jungaleers of Detroit Southeastern tomorrow night.
Unfortunately have to head out of town and will miss some great Quarterfinal matchups but will be back just in time to catch tip off at the first game on Thursday at 1 PM
Best Quarterfinal mathchups:
Romulus vs. Detroit Southeastern at Detroit Mercy Callahan Hall 7:30 Pm
Southfield vs East Detroit at Detroit Mercy Callahan Hall at 5:30 PM
Detroit Country Day vs. Flint Powers Catholic at Ferndale at 7 PM
Detroit Consortium vs Saginaw Buena Vista at West Bloomfield at 7 PM
Got to hit the hay, have to be up at 3:30 AM for a 5:45 AM flight.
Good night from your Basketball SNOB
Sunday, March 20, 2011
Bracket Busters Join the Sweet 16
What a weekend with Sunday's games being no exception. Another great day of great, close games and as always, upsets. Upsets mean one thing.......Bracket busters. There certainly has been a few since this tournament started on Thursday. Gone are the big name teams of Louisville, Georgetown, St. John's, Vanderbilt and Xavier all in the first round. Now you add to that list, Pittsburgh, Purdue, Syracuse,Texas and Notre Dame.
A few of the great games to mention - the opener of the day saw a great high scoring basketball game with North Carolina coming out on top of Washington by 3 while Washington had a last second (1.4) shot to tie the game but failed on the attempt. Tyler Zeller and Harrison Barnes played well and led the team in scoring.
Duke held off a late rally by a never say die young Michigan team and held on for a 2 point victory. Michigan trailed by as much as 14 late in the second half but actually had a chance to tie or win it on the last possession. Darius Morris missed a 12 foot floater in the lane and Michigan could not rebound the miss as time expired.
The Arizona - Texas game was another great game that went back and forth the entire time. Derrick Williams (this guy is a PLAYER) got the winning bucket with 9 seconds and was fouled on the play. He gave Arizona a 70-69 lead and Texas had a failed off balance driving layup attempt and a blocked shot (could have been called a foul) at the end to finish their year. Another unbelievable finish.
Marquette ends up finishing off Syracuse as the Cuse turns it over in a tie game on a routine sideline inbounds pass with 51 seconds. Marquette hits a 3 pointer with 25 seconds to give them the lead for good in this one. The Cuse missed Brandon Triche late in the second half as he left with an injury and Syracuse turned the ball over 19 times despite shooting 54% from the field. Their defense was bad and Scoop Jardine and Brandon Triche played poorly. Marquette was more aggressive, played harder and won the boards battle in this one.
VCU proved they can play and took it to Purdue for an easy 18 pt win. This team is dangerous right now as they are playing solid basketball and believe in themselves.
Ohio State won as easily as expected by over 30 points and look right now to be the BEST TEAM in the tournament and the favorite to win.
Florida State pulled off the other big upset of the night by beating Notre Dame handily. They got up big early and Notre Dame lacks the athleticism, speed and quickness to get back into a game especially when they are going against the number 1 defense (lowest field goal percentage in the country in 10 years) in the country.
So who are the new Bracket Busters that will join the Sweet 16:
#12 Richmond Spiders (Atlantic 10 Conference)
#11 VCU Rams (Colonial Athletic Conference)
#11 Marquette Golden Eagles (Big East)
#10 Florida St. Seminoles (ACC)
# 8 Butler Bulldogs (Horizon League)
We will have some classic match ups for the Sweet 16 along with some "who knows what will happen in this one" and some games that on paper do not look to be closely contested. I will let you choose which you think are which.
EAST
Ohio St. vs. Kentucky (1/4)
North Carolina vs. Marquette (2/11)
WEST
Duke vs Arizona (1/5)
San Diego St. vs Connecticut (2/3)
SOUTHWEST
Kansas vs. Richmond (1/12)
Florida St. vs. VCU
SOUTHEAST
Wisconsin vs. Butler (4/8)
Florida vs. BYU (2/3)
My predictions:
EAST Ohio St. and North Carolina meet for Final - Ohio State goes to final 4
WEST Arizona and Connecticut meet in final - Arizona goes to final 4
SW Kansas and Florida St meet in final - Kansas goes to final 4
SE Butler and BYU meet in final - BYU advances to final 4
If any upset - Could be Florida St over Kansas to advance to final 4
Congrats to Coach K on getting his 900 career win. Unbelievable.
HIGH SCHOOL
More to follow this week before the Michigan State High School semi and finals this coming weekend, March 24-26.
Michigan Mr. Basketball to be announced tomorrow. The five finalists are;
Amir Williams - Detroit Country Day (Ohio St)
Brandon Kearney - Detroit Southeastern (Michigan St)
LaDontae Henton - Lansing Eastern (Dayton)
Carlton Brundidge - Southfield (Michigan)
Dwaun Anderson - Sutton's Bay (Michigan St)
I believe it will be awarded to Amir Williams who is the most talented with the most upside to be playing in the NBA but statistically and what a player was able to accomplish on the floor this year I believe it should go to LaDontae Henton. He averaged dobule figures in scoring and rebounding this year and is all over the court when he plays. He was an impact player for his team this year.
Good night from your Basketball SNOB
A few of the great games to mention - the opener of the day saw a great high scoring basketball game with North Carolina coming out on top of Washington by 3 while Washington had a last second (1.4) shot to tie the game but failed on the attempt. Tyler Zeller and Harrison Barnes played well and led the team in scoring.
Duke held off a late rally by a never say die young Michigan team and held on for a 2 point victory. Michigan trailed by as much as 14 late in the second half but actually had a chance to tie or win it on the last possession. Darius Morris missed a 12 foot floater in the lane and Michigan could not rebound the miss as time expired.
The Arizona - Texas game was another great game that went back and forth the entire time. Derrick Williams (this guy is a PLAYER) got the winning bucket with 9 seconds and was fouled on the play. He gave Arizona a 70-69 lead and Texas had a failed off balance driving layup attempt and a blocked shot (could have been called a foul) at the end to finish their year. Another unbelievable finish.
Marquette ends up finishing off Syracuse as the Cuse turns it over in a tie game on a routine sideline inbounds pass with 51 seconds. Marquette hits a 3 pointer with 25 seconds to give them the lead for good in this one. The Cuse missed Brandon Triche late in the second half as he left with an injury and Syracuse turned the ball over 19 times despite shooting 54% from the field. Their defense was bad and Scoop Jardine and Brandon Triche played poorly. Marquette was more aggressive, played harder and won the boards battle in this one.
VCU proved they can play and took it to Purdue for an easy 18 pt win. This team is dangerous right now as they are playing solid basketball and believe in themselves.
Ohio State won as easily as expected by over 30 points and look right now to be the BEST TEAM in the tournament and the favorite to win.
Florida State pulled off the other big upset of the night by beating Notre Dame handily. They got up big early and Notre Dame lacks the athleticism, speed and quickness to get back into a game especially when they are going against the number 1 defense (lowest field goal percentage in the country in 10 years) in the country.
So who are the new Bracket Busters that will join the Sweet 16:
#12 Richmond Spiders (Atlantic 10 Conference)
#11 VCU Rams (Colonial Athletic Conference)
#11 Marquette Golden Eagles (Big East)
#10 Florida St. Seminoles (ACC)
# 8 Butler Bulldogs (Horizon League)
We will have some classic match ups for the Sweet 16 along with some "who knows what will happen in this one" and some games that on paper do not look to be closely contested. I will let you choose which you think are which.
EAST
Ohio St. vs. Kentucky (1/4)
North Carolina vs. Marquette (2/11)
WEST
Duke vs Arizona (1/5)
San Diego St. vs Connecticut (2/3)
SOUTHWEST
Kansas vs. Richmond (1/12)
Florida St. vs. VCU
SOUTHEAST
Wisconsin vs. Butler (4/8)
Florida vs. BYU (2/3)
My predictions:
EAST Ohio St. and North Carolina meet for Final - Ohio State goes to final 4
WEST Arizona and Connecticut meet in final - Arizona goes to final 4
SW Kansas and Florida St meet in final - Kansas goes to final 4
SE Butler and BYU meet in final - BYU advances to final 4
If any upset - Could be Florida St over Kansas to advance to final 4
Congrats to Coach K on getting his 900 career win. Unbelievable.
HIGH SCHOOL
More to follow this week before the Michigan State High School semi and finals this coming weekend, March 24-26.
Michigan Mr. Basketball to be announced tomorrow. The five finalists are;
Amir Williams - Detroit Country Day (Ohio St)
Brandon Kearney - Detroit Southeastern (Michigan St)
LaDontae Henton - Lansing Eastern (Dayton)
Carlton Brundidge - Southfield (Michigan)
Dwaun Anderson - Sutton's Bay (Michigan St)
I believe it will be awarded to Amir Williams who is the most talented with the most upside to be playing in the NBA but statistically and what a player was able to accomplish on the floor this year I believe it should go to LaDontae Henton. He averaged dobule figures in scoring and rebounding this year and is all over the court when he plays. He was an impact player for his team this year.
Good night from your Basketball SNOB
Saturday, March 19, 2011
Individual Performances Stand Out on Saturday Showdowns
Another Great day on Saturday of NCAA March Madness with the most insanity coming in the conclusion of the Pittsburgh-Butler game. If you didn't see it, it is so hard to explain but I will do my best here. Pitt is leading by a score of 69-68 when Butler goes for the win on the last shot. They get a 4 foot bank shot to drop with just under 3 seconds to go for a 70-69 lead and a what appears to be a win. Pittsburgh is shocked and does not appear to know what to do. They inbound a long pass up near the half court sideline. It becomes a race between Gilbert Brown (Pitt) and Shelvin Mack (Butler) to the ball. Brown secures the ball and Mack runs into him enough to knock him off balance before he goes out of bounds. The refs call a foul and go to the monitors to review the time. Brown will get two shots and a chance to win it for Pitt. While the refs are at the monitors, Brown is waiting at the free throw line and Mack is standing in the lane about 3 feet away and jawing with Brown. It appeared at the time to be trash talk but he later stated that he was just having a casual conversation. The refs come back and put 1.9 seconds on the clock. Brown hits the first to tie it at 70-70 but misses the next. Butler rebounds the miss but Pittsburgh is called for a foul on the rebound. Butler (Howard) goes to the line with .9 seconds and sinks the first (71-70) and intentionally misses the second. Pitt bobbles the miss and fires a three quarter court shot that hits the rim. However, due to the bobble, time expired and the shot would not have counted. It was an emotional and crazy a finish I have seen in a tournament game. I felt bad for both teams however Butler proved they are a good team and belong among the best. They were out rebounded by Pitt by 10 boards and Pitt shot 52% from the floor and Butler still beat them. One of the main reasons was the outstanding individual performance of Shelvin Mack. Mack scored 30 in this game on 10-16 shooting from the field including 7 - 3 pointers. Mack is a strong, 6'3 215 guard that can shoot and up until this game was very underrated nationally. Watch how this all changes after tonight. With the loss Pitt becomes the first #1 seed to fall in the tournament. However, the other three (Duke, Kansas & Ohio St) still have their second games to be played on Sunday. Ohio St and Kansas are not in any jeopardy of losing but Duke could get challenged by Michigan. Duke and Michigan match up very well and have a lot of similarities with top point guard play (Irving, Morris) and very good perimeter shooters however Duke has the size advantage on Michigan and I think it all comes down to the team that is more effective in knocking down the perimeter shots.
I should probably watch my predictions, so far I have not been to accurate. In my prior blogs I said to watch out for a few teams who could upset or make a run. I called for Washington to make a run (still alive) St. John's, Vandy and UNLV were all bad calls as was Oakland and Penn State. Michigan is the only other one that has a chance to help my predictions out. Speaking of accuracy, I need to correct my post from yesterday, it was Brandon Knight and not Doron Lamb that scored the winning basket for Kentucky and his only two points of the game. This is a good segway into the next individual stand out performance in a Saturday game......Brandon Knight.
Brandon Knight from Kentucky, took the momentum he had from the winning basket with 2 seconds left to beat Princeton, and carried it over to Saturday. Brandon was another recipient of our Outstanding Individual Stand Out performances for Saturday. He scored 30 in leading Kentucky to a hard fought 71-63 win over West Virginia.
Our third recipient for Individual Performance Stand Out (IPSO) for Saturday is none other than Jimmer Fredette. Is it just me or doesn't all these references to his first name of "Jimmer" remind you of a Seinfeld skit. "Jimmer is unbelievable", "what time does the Jimmer show start for BYU", "Did you see Jimmer make that 38 footer". I think the best sign before the BYU - Gonzaga game was one that referenced NBA great John Stockton whose son David Stockton plays for Gonzaga. It said something like John Stockton is really here to see the Jimmer show.
A show is what Jimmer put on. Fredette scored 34 including some incredibly long bombs that were nothing but net. This guy can flat our shoot from anywhere inside the gym. There is no hesitate for him once he steps over half court. He led BYU to a surprisingly easy 89-67 win over favored Gonzaga.
IPSO award #4 goes to Kemba Walker from Connecticut who never seems to tire and just keeps getting it done. Kemba scores 33, including 14 of 14 at the charity stripe in helping Connecticut to come back from an early 10 point first half deficit to defeat Cincinnati, 69-58 and advance to the Sweet 16.
IPSO award #5 goes to the gutsy play of Florida's stocky PG Ervin Walker. He came up with some outstanding and clutch baskets down the stretch and was the difference maker in this game that helped Florida defeat UCLA 73-65. Walker scored 21 points on only 5-8 shooting from the field but that included 3 - 3 pointers and some acrobatic driving shots. His clutch shots down the stretch sent UCLA home for another year.
Our final IPSO award is probably the most deserving especially in a losing role. Kansas St guard Jacob Pullen became the all time scoring leader in K-State history by scoring his career high, 38 points, on 60% shooting from the field including 6 - 3 pointers. He played an unbelievable, never say die game but unfortunately for the Wildcats they came up a little short as Wisconsin hit the free throws down the stretch to beat them 70-65. Pullen was visibly shaken by the defeat following the game and it was clear that he left everything (blood, sweat and tears) on the court Saturday but he will not have to worry about his future... it will be in the NBA.
So once again the Individual Performance Stand Outs for Saturday
Shelvin Mack - Butler (30); Brandon Knight- Kentucky (30); Jimmer Fredette - BYU - (34); Kemba Walker - Connecticut (33); Ervin Walker - Florida (21); Jacob Pullen - Kansas St (38).
One final note before I head to bed to dream about what lies in store for us tomorrow, Wisconsin is 21-42 from 3 pt land in the first two games. If they keep shooting like this the Sweet 16 match up with Butler should be something to see.
Good night from Your Basketball SNOB
I should probably watch my predictions, so far I have not been to accurate. In my prior blogs I said to watch out for a few teams who could upset or make a run. I called for Washington to make a run (still alive) St. John's, Vandy and UNLV were all bad calls as was Oakland and Penn State. Michigan is the only other one that has a chance to help my predictions out. Speaking of accuracy, I need to correct my post from yesterday, it was Brandon Knight and not Doron Lamb that scored the winning basket for Kentucky and his only two points of the game. This is a good segway into the next individual stand out performance in a Saturday game......Brandon Knight.
Brandon Knight from Kentucky, took the momentum he had from the winning basket with 2 seconds left to beat Princeton, and carried it over to Saturday. Brandon was another recipient of our Outstanding Individual Stand Out performances for Saturday. He scored 30 in leading Kentucky to a hard fought 71-63 win over West Virginia.
Our third recipient for Individual Performance Stand Out (IPSO) for Saturday is none other than Jimmer Fredette. Is it just me or doesn't all these references to his first name of "Jimmer" remind you of a Seinfeld skit. "Jimmer is unbelievable", "what time does the Jimmer show start for BYU", "Did you see Jimmer make that 38 footer". I think the best sign before the BYU - Gonzaga game was one that referenced NBA great John Stockton whose son David Stockton plays for Gonzaga. It said something like John Stockton is really here to see the Jimmer show.
A show is what Jimmer put on. Fredette scored 34 including some incredibly long bombs that were nothing but net. This guy can flat our shoot from anywhere inside the gym. There is no hesitate for him once he steps over half court. He led BYU to a surprisingly easy 89-67 win over favored Gonzaga.
IPSO award #4 goes to Kemba Walker from Connecticut who never seems to tire and just keeps getting it done. Kemba scores 33, including 14 of 14 at the charity stripe in helping Connecticut to come back from an early 10 point first half deficit to defeat Cincinnati, 69-58 and advance to the Sweet 16.
IPSO award #5 goes to the gutsy play of Florida's stocky PG Ervin Walker. He came up with some outstanding and clutch baskets down the stretch and was the difference maker in this game that helped Florida defeat UCLA 73-65. Walker scored 21 points on only 5-8 shooting from the field but that included 3 - 3 pointers and some acrobatic driving shots. His clutch shots down the stretch sent UCLA home for another year.
Our final IPSO award is probably the most deserving especially in a losing role. Kansas St guard Jacob Pullen became the all time scoring leader in K-State history by scoring his career high, 38 points, on 60% shooting from the field including 6 - 3 pointers. He played an unbelievable, never say die game but unfortunately for the Wildcats they came up a little short as Wisconsin hit the free throws down the stretch to beat them 70-65. Pullen was visibly shaken by the defeat following the game and it was clear that he left everything (blood, sweat and tears) on the court Saturday but he will not have to worry about his future... it will be in the NBA.
So once again the Individual Performance Stand Outs for Saturday
Shelvin Mack - Butler (30); Brandon Knight- Kentucky (30); Jimmer Fredette - BYU - (34); Kemba Walker - Connecticut (33); Ervin Walker - Florida (21); Jacob Pullen - Kansas St (38).
One final note before I head to bed to dream about what lies in store for us tomorrow, Wisconsin is 21-42 from 3 pt land in the first two games. If they keep shooting like this the Sweet 16 match up with Butler should be something to see.
Good night from Your Basketball SNOB
March Madness is Here
The Madness began on Thursday with six games that came down to the last possession. The first and largest upset of the day belonged to Morehead State who shocked the Cardinals of Louisville and 94% of the bracket participants with a 62-61 victory on a 3 pointer with 4 seconds to go and a blocked Louisville shot at the buzzer.
This was followed by the 12 seed Richmond Spiders upsetting the #5 ranked Vanderbilt Commodores. Richmond, from the Atlantic 10 joins conference mate Temple who also advanced with a last second shot and win as Temple snuck by Big Ten interstate foe, Penn State 66-64. Butler picked up a loose ball for a layup put back at the buzzer for a 60-58 defeat of an Old Dominion team that many people thought would win this one easily. Kentucky was taken to the wire by a very good, methodical Princeton team but freshman Doren Lamb (Oak Hill Academy) scored his only 2 points of the game but they could not have been any bigger as he scored on a driving layup with 2 seconds to give Kentucky a 57-55 victory. The final close game of the night should not have even been a close game as Michigan State was getting blown out by UCLA by 23 in the second half and mounted an unbelievable comeback only to fall short on a traveling violation by Kalin Lucas on their last ditch effort to try and tie or beat UCLA when they rebounded a missed UCLA free throw with 4.5 seconds left. Lucas was racing up the court for a last second shot when he was called for traveling at half court ending the Spartans comeback bid and sending them home after a disappointing season with a 78-76 defeat.
Speaking of Michigan State - former players Kory Lucious and Chris Allen, both dismissed from the team for conduct detrimental to the team, are rumored to be enrolling together at Iowa St
As expected, there was more madness on Friday with four games coming down to the wire. George Mason with a come from behind victory beats Villanova by 4 in a game that came down to the end. George Mason was the higher seed but was not favored in this one. GM is now 17-1 in their last 18 games and gets to face off with top seeded Ohio State. Can the magic continue? Texas held off a spirited comeback from our own Oakland Grizzlies as they failed to quit and hit some big three pointers down the stretch before falling short to the talented # 4 Texas Longhorns, 85-81. Many people were picking Oakland including TV announcer and analayst, Jay Billups. I liked Oakland to win at least one game until I saw who they were playing. They got a bad draw and in my opinion, a bad seed. They were deserving of a seed better than 13. They showed people they can play with one of the best. Well done Oakland on a great season.
Memphis loses a heartbreaker to Arizona, 77-75 in a wild finish. Down 77-74 with 12 seconds and the ball, Arizona chose to foul and put Memphis on the line. They made the first and missed the second but batted the missed free throw and rebounded on the off side. They then attempted a 6 footer but was denied by another timely block by Williams (same Williams that swatted away last second shot by Washington in Conference game earlier)and lose at the buzzer. Finally, Washington holds off and survives a last minute three point heave from Georgia from about 35 feet to win 68-65
There were some other upsets of note. VCU dominated Georgetown most of the game and cruises to an easy 74-56 win. Gonzaga took down a St. John's team that many felt (including yours truly) could reach the final four. The Zags won easily 86-71. Florida St and Marquette were slight upset winners. Florida St. beating Texas A&M by 7 and Marquette taking care of #6 seed Xavier by 11.
It was easy pickins for ACC rivals, Duke and North Carolina as they both rolled over their 15 and 16 seed opponents, Hampton and Long Island respectively. Kyrie Irving is indeed back and that serves the Duke faithful well. I did not think they would have a chance of winning this thing but now I am thinking differently. He changes the complexion of this team for the better. UConn won by 29 and in the one of the largest unexpected lopsided victories, Michigan buried everything it was shooting up from la la land for a 30 point margin of victory over Tennessee and could be the final straw that gets Coach Bruce Pearl fired.
With all the madness there was some sanity as the winless streak stayed intact for the 1 vs 16 matchup games where the overall record is now 0-108.
How the Conferences are fairing after the first round:
Big East showing - record of 7-4 (.636)
Big Ten showing - record of 5-2 (.714)
Pac 10 showing - record of 3-0 (1.000)
Big 12 showing - record of 3-1 (.750)
ACC showing - record of 2-1 (.666)
SEC showing - record of 2-3 (.400)
Big East and Big Ten still have the most surviving teams with 7 & 5 respectively.
All Tigers are gone from the Tournament - Clemson, Memphis, Missouri and Princeton
Some nice second (or do we say third round now with the 4 "first round" play in games)
matchups. There should be some real close ones:
Marquette vs. Syracuse - Marquette won earlier in the year.
Cincinnati - Connecticut - Another Big East matchup - Cincy will be tough but expect UCONN to advance
West Virginia and Kentucky in the who has more teeth matchup should be a physical game - West Virginia is stronger and more physical but Kentucky has athletes. Nod goes to Kentucky here in another close one.
Washington - North Carolina is another one that I think will come down to the end. I am picking Washington in the upset.
Michigan - Duke is now very intriguing. I am pulling for Michigan and my college Alma matter (LeMoyne College - small Jesuit college in Syracuse, NY)ex basketball coach, Jim Beilein, to rise above the Dukies. Will be very tough now that Irving is back at the point.
Arizona - Texas looks good on paper but I am thinking Texas wins by 9.
UCLA - Florida - the Bruins can beat this Florida team - look for another close one that could go either way.
Kansas St. - Wisconsin should be another one to follow. We will see how good Wisconsin is playing and whether or not they can make a run at it but need to get by Kansas St for next step.
Gonzaga - BYU in the battle of the West. Looking for a shootout and hoping for a close one.
Looking forward to two more days of Games, Excitement and here is to hoping the Madness Continues.
Goodnight from your Basketball SNOB
.
This was followed by the 12 seed Richmond Spiders upsetting the #5 ranked Vanderbilt Commodores. Richmond, from the Atlantic 10 joins conference mate Temple who also advanced with a last second shot and win as Temple snuck by Big Ten interstate foe, Penn State 66-64. Butler picked up a loose ball for a layup put back at the buzzer for a 60-58 defeat of an Old Dominion team that many people thought would win this one easily. Kentucky was taken to the wire by a very good, methodical Princeton team but freshman Doren Lamb (Oak Hill Academy) scored his only 2 points of the game but they could not have been any bigger as he scored on a driving layup with 2 seconds to give Kentucky a 57-55 victory. The final close game of the night should not have even been a close game as Michigan State was getting blown out by UCLA by 23 in the second half and mounted an unbelievable comeback only to fall short on a traveling violation by Kalin Lucas on their last ditch effort to try and tie or beat UCLA when they rebounded a missed UCLA free throw with 4.5 seconds left. Lucas was racing up the court for a last second shot when he was called for traveling at half court ending the Spartans comeback bid and sending them home after a disappointing season with a 78-76 defeat.
Speaking of Michigan State - former players Kory Lucious and Chris Allen, both dismissed from the team for conduct detrimental to the team, are rumored to be enrolling together at Iowa St
As expected, there was more madness on Friday with four games coming down to the wire. George Mason with a come from behind victory beats Villanova by 4 in a game that came down to the end. George Mason was the higher seed but was not favored in this one. GM is now 17-1 in their last 18 games and gets to face off with top seeded Ohio State. Can the magic continue? Texas held off a spirited comeback from our own Oakland Grizzlies as they failed to quit and hit some big three pointers down the stretch before falling short to the talented # 4 Texas Longhorns, 85-81. Many people were picking Oakland including TV announcer and analayst, Jay Billups. I liked Oakland to win at least one game until I saw who they were playing. They got a bad draw and in my opinion, a bad seed. They were deserving of a seed better than 13. They showed people they can play with one of the best. Well done Oakland on a great season.
Memphis loses a heartbreaker to Arizona, 77-75 in a wild finish. Down 77-74 with 12 seconds and the ball, Arizona chose to foul and put Memphis on the line. They made the first and missed the second but batted the missed free throw and rebounded on the off side. They then attempted a 6 footer but was denied by another timely block by Williams (same Williams that swatted away last second shot by Washington in Conference game earlier)and lose at the buzzer. Finally, Washington holds off and survives a last minute three point heave from Georgia from about 35 feet to win 68-65
There were some other upsets of note. VCU dominated Georgetown most of the game and cruises to an easy 74-56 win. Gonzaga took down a St. John's team that many felt (including yours truly) could reach the final four. The Zags won easily 86-71. Florida St and Marquette were slight upset winners. Florida St. beating Texas A&M by 7 and Marquette taking care of #6 seed Xavier by 11.
It was easy pickins for ACC rivals, Duke and North Carolina as they both rolled over their 15 and 16 seed opponents, Hampton and Long Island respectively. Kyrie Irving is indeed back and that serves the Duke faithful well. I did not think they would have a chance of winning this thing but now I am thinking differently. He changes the complexion of this team for the better. UConn won by 29 and in the one of the largest unexpected lopsided victories, Michigan buried everything it was shooting up from la la land for a 30 point margin of victory over Tennessee and could be the final straw that gets Coach Bruce Pearl fired.
With all the madness there was some sanity as the winless streak stayed intact for the 1 vs 16 matchup games where the overall record is now 0-108.
How the Conferences are fairing after the first round:
Big East showing - record of 7-4 (.636)
Big Ten showing - record of 5-2 (.714)
Pac 10 showing - record of 3-0 (1.000)
Big 12 showing - record of 3-1 (.750)
ACC showing - record of 2-1 (.666)
SEC showing - record of 2-3 (.400)
Big East and Big Ten still have the most surviving teams with 7 & 5 respectively.
All Tigers are gone from the Tournament - Clemson, Memphis, Missouri and Princeton
Some nice second (or do we say third round now with the 4 "first round" play in games)
matchups. There should be some real close ones:
Marquette vs. Syracuse - Marquette won earlier in the year.
Cincinnati - Connecticut - Another Big East matchup - Cincy will be tough but expect UCONN to advance
West Virginia and Kentucky in the who has more teeth matchup should be a physical game - West Virginia is stronger and more physical but Kentucky has athletes. Nod goes to Kentucky here in another close one.
Washington - North Carolina is another one that I think will come down to the end. I am picking Washington in the upset.
Michigan - Duke is now very intriguing. I am pulling for Michigan and my college Alma matter (LeMoyne College - small Jesuit college in Syracuse, NY)ex basketball coach, Jim Beilein, to rise above the Dukies. Will be very tough now that Irving is back at the point.
Arizona - Texas looks good on paper but I am thinking Texas wins by 9.
UCLA - Florida - the Bruins can beat this Florida team - look for another close one that could go either way.
Kansas St. - Wisconsin should be another one to follow. We will see how good Wisconsin is playing and whether or not they can make a run at it but need to get by Kansas St for next step.
Gonzaga - BYU in the battle of the West. Looking for a shootout and hoping for a close one.
Looking forward to two more days of Games, Excitement and here is to hoping the Madness Continues.
Goodnight from your Basketball SNOB
.
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Consortium Cougars Rip ABT
I attended the Detroit Consortium - Melvindale ABT Regional finals last night and this game was packed with energy, excitement and huge swings. When it was over, #2 ranked Consortium came out ahead, 64-54 over previously ranked #1 ABT. Melvindale jumped out early to an 18-11 lead with very balanced scoring in front of a very boisterous crowd at Bishop Foley. Once the second quarter started it was all Cougars as they went on a 17-0 run to stake themselves to a 28-18 lead. It wasn't until the 2:43 mark of the second quarter before Melvindale scored their first points of the quarter. Point guard, Travon Baker, proved why he is one of the top, if not top, Junior guards in the state, by scoring 14 points in the second quarter to double up Melivndale's total output for the quarter. Baker hit 4 3-pointers in the second quarter and had 20 at half. Consortium went up 35-25 at half and never relinquished the lead. Baker finished with 27 and sophomore Vincent Hunter slashed and drove his way to 22 points. This super soph is very tough to stop when he goes to the hole. He is in control, protects the ball and is strong and long. This entire Consortium team is very young and talented. They start one senior, 3 Juniors and 1 sophomore. Tre Tigner is a strong as a bull down low 6'6" player that gives them a presence on the boards. 6'5" junior Devondre Peoples is very athletic, is very long, can board with body control and can jump to the moon. Baker and Hunter round out the other underclassman starters. Oh yeah, then they bring in 6'10" junior Matt Willms off the bench. This kid has very good skills but has been hampered by a bad foot (ankle) all year so gets limited playing time. He needs to put on some weight and strength but is a D-1 prospect.
Consortium may have another tough game coming up with Saginaw Buena Vista but if they can contain leading scorer George Goodman they should be on their way to Lansing and a showdown with Flint Beecher. Consortium is the most talented C team and should win states the only thing preventing them from this is injury or foul trouble to their very talented floor leader, Travon Baker. I can not sing enough praises about this guard. He handles the ball well, gets to the glass on drives, can drain the outside shot and plays with a sense of fun for the game.
Detroit Southeastern beat Cody again, 43-40 to advance to meet Romulus. Winner goes to Breslin.
Kalamazoo took care of business and defeated the team that I wanted to see in Lansing, Lansing Eastern by a bucket 46-44 in a wild finish with a goaltending call with .2 seconds on the clock to give Kazoo the win. Should see Kalamazoo Central and Southfield meet in the semi-finals at State. Should be Bay City Western vs. winner of the Tuesday night showdown at Callahan between Romulus and Detroit Southeastern.
Romulus has the better overall team but Det Southeastern has the better star talent with Brandon Kearney and Percy Gibson.
CLASS B
Detroit Country Day and Flint Powers both won bringing on a huge quartrefinal match between the two on Tuesday with the winner getting the rights to go to Lansing. Flint is playing tremendous basketball right now and if anyone can beat DCD it is them. Winner goes to Lansing to hopefully meet Lansing Sexton.
Expect to see East Grand Rapids now and Muskegon Heights in the other semi.
ClASS C
Expect to see Flint Beecher, Schoolcraft and McBain join Detroit Consortium. This would probably be the best final four of the classes.
CLASS D
Cedarville sneaks by Posen, 64-62 in OT. Oakland Christian gets upset by Detroit Westside Christian. Expect now to see Wyoming Tri-Unity meet Eben Junction or Cedarville in one semi and Fulton and Saginaw Michigan Lutheran Sem in the other.
We are getting closer and closer to March 24-26 at East Lansing and this Basketball SNOB is getting excited.
Talk about excitement, should be plenty today as March Madness kicks off. Will be at Bailey's (Happy St. Patrick's Day) watching all the games.
One of the best times of year. Enjoy
Consortium may have another tough game coming up with Saginaw Buena Vista but if they can contain leading scorer George Goodman they should be on their way to Lansing and a showdown with Flint Beecher. Consortium is the most talented C team and should win states the only thing preventing them from this is injury or foul trouble to their very talented floor leader, Travon Baker. I can not sing enough praises about this guard. He handles the ball well, gets to the glass on drives, can drain the outside shot and plays with a sense of fun for the game.
Detroit Southeastern beat Cody again, 43-40 to advance to meet Romulus. Winner goes to Breslin.
Kalamazoo took care of business and defeated the team that I wanted to see in Lansing, Lansing Eastern by a bucket 46-44 in a wild finish with a goaltending call with .2 seconds on the clock to give Kazoo the win. Should see Kalamazoo Central and Southfield meet in the semi-finals at State. Should be Bay City Western vs. winner of the Tuesday night showdown at Callahan between Romulus and Detroit Southeastern.
Romulus has the better overall team but Det Southeastern has the better star talent with Brandon Kearney and Percy Gibson.
CLASS B
Detroit Country Day and Flint Powers both won bringing on a huge quartrefinal match between the two on Tuesday with the winner getting the rights to go to Lansing. Flint is playing tremendous basketball right now and if anyone can beat DCD it is them. Winner goes to Lansing to hopefully meet Lansing Sexton.
Expect to see East Grand Rapids now and Muskegon Heights in the other semi.
ClASS C
Expect to see Flint Beecher, Schoolcraft and McBain join Detroit Consortium. This would probably be the best final four of the classes.
CLASS D
Cedarville sneaks by Posen, 64-62 in OT. Oakland Christian gets upset by Detroit Westside Christian. Expect now to see Wyoming Tri-Unity meet Eben Junction or Cedarville in one semi and Fulton and Saginaw Michigan Lutheran Sem in the other.
We are getting closer and closer to March 24-26 at East Lansing and this Basketball SNOB is getting excited.
Talk about excitement, should be plenty today as March Madness kicks off. Will be at Bailey's (Happy St. Patrick's Day) watching all the games.
One of the best times of year. Enjoy
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
High School Corrections and Updates
I need to do a quick update as some of the information I provided last night was not accurate. In a big shocker, winning tradition rich Saginaw was actually knocked off by Bay City Western (22-2) last night 55-47 as the two big men Matt Costello (6'7 JR commit to MSU) and Brandon Hovercamp took control. Costello had 18 points and both finished with 12 rebounds. This is pretty amazing considering they lost to Saginaw earlier in the year (without the services of Costello who was serving a one game suspension for getting tossed in the previous game) by a score of 60-28. They will now play Clarkston in the Regional final. I would love to see these guys move on now.
The other major correction was that Saginaw Buena Vista did not get beat by Harbor Beach, in fact it was the other way around as SBV crushed them 94-51. I should have wondered about this one because George Goodman could have scored over 50 by himself for this team. My new final four projections:
CLASS A
Southfield vs. Kalamazoo Central (I want Lansing Eastern to get here though)
Bay City Western vs. Romulus (wouldn't mind seeing Det. Southeastern either)
Southfield upsets Kazoo Central and Romulus defeats Bay City Western
Romulus wins it all
CLASS B
Detroit Country Day vs. Lansing Sexton (this should be championship game)
Grand Rapids Christian vs. Muskegon Heights
DCD defeats Sexton but Sexton has the talent to beat DCD
GR Christian wins
DCD repeats and wins it all
CLASS C
Detroit Consortium vs. Schoolcraft
Flint Beecher vs. McBain
Consortium wins and Beecher wins - would be great final game.
Beecher upsets Consortium to win it all
** In place of Consortium it could also be either Melvindale ABT or Saginaw Buena Vista - these teams are that close. Either way it goes, I still have Beecher winning it
CLASS D
Wyoming Tri-Unity vs. Eben Junction Superior Cent(would like to see Cedarville though)
Fulton vs. either Saginaw Mich Lutheran or Auburn Hills Oakland Christian
Wyoming wins easy and Fulton gets by Oakland Christian
Wyoming Tri-Unity wins it all.
I will be at Foley tomorrow night for the Consortium / Melvindale game. Although the Cody / Det Southeastern game should be a great one as well.
Thats it for now - Your Basketball SNOB
The other major correction was that Saginaw Buena Vista did not get beat by Harbor Beach, in fact it was the other way around as SBV crushed them 94-51. I should have wondered about this one because George Goodman could have scored over 50 by himself for this team. My new final four projections:
CLASS A
Southfield vs. Kalamazoo Central (I want Lansing Eastern to get here though)
Bay City Western vs. Romulus (wouldn't mind seeing Det. Southeastern either)
Southfield upsets Kazoo Central and Romulus defeats Bay City Western
Romulus wins it all
CLASS B
Detroit Country Day vs. Lansing Sexton (this should be championship game)
Grand Rapids Christian vs. Muskegon Heights
DCD defeats Sexton but Sexton has the talent to beat DCD
GR Christian wins
DCD repeats and wins it all
CLASS C
Detroit Consortium vs. Schoolcraft
Flint Beecher vs. McBain
Consortium wins and Beecher wins - would be great final game.
Beecher upsets Consortium to win it all
** In place of Consortium it could also be either Melvindale ABT or Saginaw Buena Vista - these teams are that close. Either way it goes, I still have Beecher winning it
CLASS D
Wyoming Tri-Unity vs. Eben Junction Superior Cent(would like to see Cedarville though)
Fulton vs. either Saginaw Mich Lutheran or Auburn Hills Oakland Christian
Wyoming wins easy and Fulton gets by Oakland Christian
Wyoming Tri-Unity wins it all.
I will be at Foley tomorrow night for the Consortium / Melvindale game. Although the Cody / Det Southeastern game should be a great one as well.
Thats it for now - Your Basketball SNOB
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