When: Monday, December 31 5 pm
Where: PNC Arena (19,722)
TV: ESPNU
NC State Athletics
UNCG Stats
Last Game: Wake Forest (L 70-84) Recap
PPG: 77.3
RPG: 39.2
APG: 13.7
Leader Points: Trevis Simpson (20.3)
Leader Rebounds: Kelvin McNeil (7.1)
Leader Assists: Drew Parker (3.7)
FG %: 42.3
3 Pt %: 33.9
FT %: 69.2
NC State Stats
Last Game: Western Michigan (W 84-66) Recap
PPG: 80.8
RPG: 36.2
APG: 14.9
Leader Points: CJ Leslie (15.3)
Leader Rebounds: Richard Howell (9.3)
Leader Assists: Lorenzo Brown (6.1)
FG %: 53.5
3 Pt %: 38.7
FT %: 65.1
Thoughts
This is just scary. This is one of the top 5 offensive teams in the country across the board with 6 guys averaging over 9.5 points. NC State doesn't even pretend to not use their strength which is Richard Howell and CJ Leslie on the inside. UNCG really had no one that can cover those guys down low. This is the reason the Wolfpack lead the country in FG %.
On the bright side, NC State isn't exactly a wonderful defensive team and they will easily play the pace that the Spartans want to play. It will take a wonderful offensive effort from the UNCG main scorers (Simpson & Armstrong) in order to keep this game close. It will also take a defensive effort that we haven't seen up until now to keep the Wolfpack from scoring at will.
In the end, I'm hoping for an interesting and competitive game and very good new year.
Go Spartans !!!
Sunday, December 30, 2012
Monday, December 24, 2012
First Half Run Keeps Spartans At Bay
UNCG 70 - Wake Forest 84
UNCG Athletics
WFU Athletics
Halftime: UNCG 29 - Wake Forest 38
UNCG Stats
Leader Points: Trevis Simpson (25)
Leader Rebounds: Kelvin McNeil (7)
Leader Assists: Simpson, Korey Van Dussen (tied - 4)
FG: 25-59 (42.4%)
3 Pt: 8-21 (38.1%)
FT: 12-15 (80.0%)
Rebounds: 30
Turnovers: 16
Wake Forest Stats
Leader Points: Travis McKie (19)
Leader Rebounds: Thomas, Adala Moto (tied - 6)
Leader Assists: Codi Miller-McIntyre (5)
FG: 27-15 (52.9%)
3 Pt: 7-16 (43.8%)
FT: 23-32 (71.9%)
Rebounds: 32)
Turnovers: 16
Thoughts
I made it clear in my pregame thoughts that this was an ACC team. Definitely at the top of that league, but they do have ACC talent level. They showed it on Saturday afternoon.
I thought UNCG did a very good job of getting the type of shots they were looking for adn did a pretty nice job of knocking those down. Again, they went a little too much 1-on-1 and spent a little too much time watching Simpson and Armstrong instead of moving without the ball. However, it's hard to fault the Spartans too much for what I saw on the offensive end of the floor.
The problem for UNCG was on the defensive end of the court. Wake did a very good job of just executing their system and working until they eventually got the look they were looking for on offense. I think you can criticize the Spartan's defense, but a lot of praise must be given to the Demon Deacons.
Hopefully, UNCG can learn and grow from this game. Go Spartans !!!
UNCG Athletics
WFU Athletics
Halftime: UNCG 29 - Wake Forest 38
UNCG Stats
Leader Points: Trevis Simpson (25)
Leader Rebounds: Kelvin McNeil (7)
Leader Assists: Simpson, Korey Van Dussen (tied - 4)
FG: 25-59 (42.4%)
3 Pt: 8-21 (38.1%)
FT: 12-15 (80.0%)
Rebounds: 30
Turnovers: 16
Wake Forest Stats
Leader Points: Travis McKie (19)
Leader Rebounds: Thomas, Adala Moto (tied - 6)
Leader Assists: Codi Miller-McIntyre (5)
FG: 27-15 (52.9%)
3 Pt: 7-16 (43.8%)
FT: 23-32 (71.9%)
Rebounds: 32)
Turnovers: 16
Thoughts
I made it clear in my pregame thoughts that this was an ACC team. Definitely at the top of that league, but they do have ACC talent level. They showed it on Saturday afternoon.
I thought UNCG did a very good job of getting the type of shots they were looking for adn did a pretty nice job of knocking those down. Again, they went a little too much 1-on-1 and spent a little too much time watching Simpson and Armstrong instead of moving without the ball. However, it's hard to fault the Spartans too much for what I saw on the offensive end of the floor.
The problem for UNCG was on the defensive end of the court. Wake did a very good job of just executing their system and working until they eventually got the look they were looking for on offense. I think you can criticize the Spartan's defense, but a lot of praise must be given to the Demon Deacons.
Hopefully, UNCG can learn and grow from this game. Go Spartans !!!
Friday, December 21, 2012
Wake Forest (5-5) @ UNCG (2-7)
When: Saturday, December 22 2:30 PM*
Where: Greensboro Coliseum (7,617/23,500)
TV: None/ ESPN3/ Spartan All-Access
*Game time is approximate. Game will follow UNCG-FSU women's game that begins at noon.
Wake Forest Athletics
UNCG Stats
Last Game: @ UNCW (L 73-87) Recap
PPG: 78.1
RPG: 40.2
APG: 13.6
Leader Points: Trevis Simpson (19.8)
Leader Rebounds: Kelvin McNeil (7.1)
Leader Assists: Drew Parker (3.8)
FG %: 42.3
3 Pt %: 33.5
FT %: 68.4
Wake Forest Stats
Last Game: Furman (W 79-55) Recap
PPG: 69.5
RPG: 31.8
APG: 11.8
Leader Points: CJ Harris (14.5)
Leader Rebounds: Travis McKie (8.3)
Leader Assists: Codi Miller-McIntyre (2.8)
FG %: 45.5
3 Pt %: 36.6
FT %: 68.5
Thoughts
Let's just start by point out something super obvious. Wake Forest in an ACC team. They may not be upper echelon ACC team, but they are an ACC team nonetheless. I know there are some Spartan fans out there that seem to think that this is a team UNCG should beat. However, I think those people are completely ridiculous.
The Demon Deacons have done a good job of winning games that they should on paper. They are a fairly good shooting team with 2 stud players in CJ Harris and Travis McKie. It will be imperative for David Williams to play a solid defensive game where he can somehow stay out of foul trouble. Also, Wake appears to be vulnerable on the boards. UNCG has done a good job of rebounding on both ends and will need to continue that on Saturday to have a chance.
UNCG will need to do a much better job on the offensive end of playing a little more under control and sharing the ball. The Spartans have spent too much time going 1-on-1 on this recent road trip. It would be nice to see good movement and energy on that end of the court.
It would be nice to see UNCG get a good home win to re-energize a fan base that is really starting to lose confidence in this team and this season. Beating an ACC team would do just that and probably then some.
Go Spartans !!!
Where: Greensboro Coliseum (7,617/23,500)
TV: None/ ESPN3/ Spartan All-Access
*Game time is approximate. Game will follow UNCG-FSU women's game that begins at noon.
Wake Forest Athletics
UNCG Stats
Last Game: @ UNCW (L 73-87) Recap
PPG: 78.1
RPG: 40.2
APG: 13.6
Leader Points: Trevis Simpson (19.8)
Leader Rebounds: Kelvin McNeil (7.1)
Leader Assists: Drew Parker (3.8)
FG %: 42.3
3 Pt %: 33.5
FT %: 68.4
Wake Forest Stats
Last Game: Furman (W 79-55) Recap
PPG: 69.5
RPG: 31.8
APG: 11.8
Leader Points: CJ Harris (14.5)
Leader Rebounds: Travis McKie (8.3)
Leader Assists: Codi Miller-McIntyre (2.8)
FG %: 45.5
3 Pt %: 36.6
FT %: 68.5
Thoughts
Let's just start by point out something super obvious. Wake Forest in an ACC team. They may not be upper echelon ACC team, but they are an ACC team nonetheless. I know there are some Spartan fans out there that seem to think that this is a team UNCG should beat. However, I think those people are completely ridiculous.
The Demon Deacons have done a good job of winning games that they should on paper. They are a fairly good shooting team with 2 stud players in CJ Harris and Travis McKie. It will be imperative for David Williams to play a solid defensive game where he can somehow stay out of foul trouble. Also, Wake appears to be vulnerable on the boards. UNCG has done a good job of rebounding on both ends and will need to continue that on Saturday to have a chance.
UNCG will need to do a much better job on the offensive end of playing a little more under control and sharing the ball. The Spartans have spent too much time going 1-on-1 on this recent road trip. It would be nice to see good movement and energy on that end of the court.
It would be nice to see UNCG get a good home win to re-energize a fan base that is really starting to lose confidence in this team and this season. Beating an ACC team would do just that and probably then some.
Go Spartans !!!
Seahawks Rout Spartans
UNCG 73 - UNCW 87
UNCG Athletics
UNCW Athletics
Halftime: UNCG 28 - UNCW 49
UNCG Stats
Leader Points: Trevis Simpson (19)
Leader reboudns: Derrell Armstrong (13
Leader Assists: Derrell Armstrong (2)
FG: 25-68 (36.8%)
3 Pt: 4-20 (20.0%)
FT: 19-32 (59.4%)
Rebounds: 37
Turnovers: 6
UNCW Stats
Leader Points: Keith Rendleman (23)
Leader Rebounds: Cedrick Williams (15)
Leader Assists: Tanner Milson (4)
FG: 30-59 (50.8%)
3 Pt: 9-16 (56.2%)
FT: 18-31 (58.1%)
Rebounds: 48
Turnovers: 13
Thoughts
It was a disappointing all around effort for UNCG on Wednesday night. Much like last Sunday's game at James Madison, the Spartans played an abysmal first half. Unfortunately, there was no inspired effort in the second half. UNCG could get no closer than 13 in the second half and the Seahawks cruised to a home victory.
Unfortunately, it was the same problems for UNCG. Cold shooting and bad defense have been the running themes so far this season. UNCW had averaged shooting just 40% form the field and 29% from behind the arc for the season.However, they were over 50% in both categories for this game. This is a problem that will have to get fixed if UNCG is going to get back in the win column.
UNCG Athletics
UNCW Athletics
Halftime: UNCG 28 - UNCW 49
UNCG Stats
Leader Points: Trevis Simpson (19)
Leader reboudns: Derrell Armstrong (13
Leader Assists: Derrell Armstrong (2)
FG: 25-68 (36.8%)
3 Pt: 4-20 (20.0%)
FT: 19-32 (59.4%)
Rebounds: 37
Turnovers: 6
UNCW Stats
Leader Points: Keith Rendleman (23)
Leader Rebounds: Cedrick Williams (15)
Leader Assists: Tanner Milson (4)
FG: 30-59 (50.8%)
3 Pt: 9-16 (56.2%)
FT: 18-31 (58.1%)
Rebounds: 48
Turnovers: 13
Thoughts
It was a disappointing all around effort for UNCG on Wednesday night. Much like last Sunday's game at James Madison, the Spartans played an abysmal first half. Unfortunately, there was no inspired effort in the second half. UNCG could get no closer than 13 in the second half and the Seahawks cruised to a home victory.
Unfortunately, it was the same problems for UNCG. Cold shooting and bad defense have been the running themes so far this season. UNCW had averaged shooting just 40% form the field and 29% from behind the arc for the season.However, they were over 50% in both categories for this game. This is a problem that will have to get fixed if UNCG is going to get back in the win column.
Tuesday, December 18, 2012
UNCG (2-6) @ UNCW (4-6)
When: Wednesday, December 19 7 pm
Where: Trask Coliseum (6,100)
TV: None
UNCW Athletics
UNCG Stats
PPG: 78.8
RPG: 40.6
APG: 14.1
Leader Points: Trevis Simpson (19.9)
Leader Rebounds: Kelvin McNeil (7.6)
Leader Assists: Drew Parker (4.0)
FG %: 43.1
3 Pt %: 34.8
FT %: 70.2
UNCW Stats
PPG: 56.9
RPG: 32.7
APG: 9.4
Leader Points: Keith Rendleman (15.3)
Leader Rebounds: Keith Rendleman (9.3)
Leader Assists: Tanner Milson (2.4)
FG %: 40.0
3 Pt %: 29.9
FT %: 63.3
Thoughts
Well, it's the resistible force versus the movable object. UNCW is terrible on offense and UNCG is terrible on defense. Something has got to give in this one.
UNCG has yet to win on the road and looked quite bad in the first half of Sunday's game at JMU. However, they seemed to shake off the rust and play a a lot better in the second half. It will be important not to let UNCW get any confidence early in this one and to seize the momentum away form the home crowd.
UNCG's second leading scorer, Derrell Armstrong, has been suspended indefinitely and it's not known if he will be playing in this one. So, it's up to the entire group to step and fill his role.
Go Spartans !!!
Where: Trask Coliseum (6,100)
TV: None
UNCW Athletics
UNCG Stats
PPG: 78.8
RPG: 40.6
APG: 14.1
Leader Points: Trevis Simpson (19.9)
Leader Rebounds: Kelvin McNeil (7.6)
Leader Assists: Drew Parker (4.0)
FG %: 43.1
3 Pt %: 34.8
FT %: 70.2
UNCW Stats
PPG: 56.9
RPG: 32.7
APG: 9.4
Leader Points: Keith Rendleman (15.3)
Leader Rebounds: Keith Rendleman (9.3)
Leader Assists: Tanner Milson (2.4)
FG %: 40.0
3 Pt %: 29.9
FT %: 63.3
Thoughts
Well, it's the resistible force versus the movable object. UNCW is terrible on offense and UNCG is terrible on defense. Something has got to give in this one.
UNCG has yet to win on the road and looked quite bad in the first half of Sunday's game at JMU. However, they seemed to shake off the rust and play a a lot better in the second half. It will be important not to let UNCW get any confidence early in this one and to seize the momentum away form the home crowd.
UNCG's second leading scorer, Derrell Armstrong, has been suspended indefinitely and it's not known if he will be playing in this one. So, it's up to the entire group to step and fill his role.
Go Spartans !!!
Monday, December 17, 2012
First Half Dooms Spartans
UNCG 73 - James Madison 85
UNCG Recap
JMU Recap
Halftime: UNCG 29- James Madison 49
UNCG Stats
Leader Points: Trevis Simpson (24)
Leader Rebounds: McNeil, Williams (tied- 9)
Leader Assists: Drew Parker (5)
FG: 25-65 (36.9%)
3 Pt: 9-25 (36.0%)
FT: 16-23 (69.6%)
Rebounds: 40
Turnovers: 15
JMU Stats
Leader Points: Rayshawn Goins (23)
Leader Rebounds: Rayshwan Goins (11)
Leader Assists: Devon Moore (7)
FG: 30-53 (56.6%)
3 Pt: 6-13 (46.2%)
FT: 19-26 (73.1%)
Rebounds: 32
Turnovers: 13
Thoughts
I really feel like I could put up my recap from the High Point game this season and only have to change the names to make it fit here. UNCG just slept right on through the first half and then only after halftime found it's rhythm and managed to shoot it's way back into the game. However, the hill was too steep to get over. The Spartans cut the 20 point deficit down to 3 on several occasions but just couldn't get all the way back.
Again defense, or the lack of, is proving to be the issue. There were way too many times where the Dukes simply drove to the basket an kicked for a wide open shot. Dribble penetration has proved to be a problem all season long and will probably continue.
Before any one posts a bunch of comments on my page, I do know that RJ White, Derrell Armstrong and Brian Coles sat on the end of the bench and apparently weren't available for this game. I have no idea why that was the case. However, it was obvious in the first half how bad the Spartans were missing Armstrong. He's been able to carry this team at times when Trevis's shots weren't falling. During those lulls, it would have been nice to have Derrell take it to the basket and create some instant offense.
Oh well. This one is over with. I was encouraged by the second half and think we all can chalk up that first half to having taken 15 days off from game competition. UNCG now heads down to Wilmington on Wednesday to play another CAA team on the road. Hopefully, with more success this time.
Go Spartans !!!
UNCG Recap
JMU Recap
Halftime: UNCG 29- James Madison 49
UNCG Stats
Leader Points: Trevis Simpson (24)
Leader Rebounds: McNeil, Williams (tied- 9)
Leader Assists: Drew Parker (5)
FG: 25-65 (36.9%)
3 Pt: 9-25 (36.0%)
FT: 16-23 (69.6%)
Rebounds: 40
Turnovers: 15
JMU Stats
Leader Points: Rayshawn Goins (23)
Leader Rebounds: Rayshwan Goins (11)
Leader Assists: Devon Moore (7)
FG: 30-53 (56.6%)
3 Pt: 6-13 (46.2%)
FT: 19-26 (73.1%)
Rebounds: 32
Turnovers: 13
Thoughts
I really feel like I could put up my recap from the High Point game this season and only have to change the names to make it fit here. UNCG just slept right on through the first half and then only after halftime found it's rhythm and managed to shoot it's way back into the game. However, the hill was too steep to get over. The Spartans cut the 20 point deficit down to 3 on several occasions but just couldn't get all the way back.
Again defense, or the lack of, is proving to be the issue. There were way too many times where the Dukes simply drove to the basket an kicked for a wide open shot. Dribble penetration has proved to be a problem all season long and will probably continue.
Before any one posts a bunch of comments on my page, I do know that RJ White, Derrell Armstrong and Brian Coles sat on the end of the bench and apparently weren't available for this game. I have no idea why that was the case. However, it was obvious in the first half how bad the Spartans were missing Armstrong. He's been able to carry this team at times when Trevis's shots weren't falling. During those lulls, it would have been nice to have Derrell take it to the basket and create some instant offense.
Oh well. This one is over with. I was encouraged by the second half and think we all can chalk up that first half to having taken 15 days off from game competition. UNCG now heads down to Wilmington on Wednesday to play another CAA team on the road. Hopefully, with more success this time.
Go Spartans !!!
Sunday, December 16, 2012
UNCG (2-5) @ James Madison (3-6)
When: Sunday, December 16 2 pm
Where: JMU Convocation Center (7,156)
TV: None
JMU Athletics
UNCG Stats
Last Game: Citadel (W 84-54)
PPG: 79.6
RPG: 40.7
APG: 14.0
Leader Points: Trevis Simpson (19.3)
Leader Rebounds: Kelvin McNeil (7.4)
Leader Assists: Drew Parker (3.9)
FG%: 43.9
3 Pt %: 34.6
FT %: 70.3
James Madison Stats
Last Game: Richmond (L 83-82 OT)
PPG: 67.2
RPG: 31.2
APG: 12.6
Leader Points: Rayshawn Goins (13.4)
Leader Rebounds: Rayshawn Goins (7.0)
Leader Assists: Devon Moore (4.4)
FG %: 43.0
3 Pt %: 33.8
FT %: 70.4
Where: JMU Convocation Center (7,156)
TV: None
JMU Athletics
UNCG Stats
Last Game: Citadel (W 84-54)
PPG: 79.6
RPG: 40.7
APG: 14.0
Leader Points: Trevis Simpson (19.3)
Leader Rebounds: Kelvin McNeil (7.4)
Leader Assists: Drew Parker (3.9)
FG%: 43.9
3 Pt %: 34.6
FT %: 70.3
James Madison Stats
Last Game: Richmond (L 83-82 OT)
PPG: 67.2
RPG: 31.2
APG: 12.6
Leader Points: Rayshawn Goins (13.4)
Leader Rebounds: Rayshawn Goins (7.0)
Leader Assists: Devon Moore (4.4)
FG %: 43.0
3 Pt %: 33.8
FT %: 70.4
Wednesday, December 12, 2012
UNCG By the Numbers - Part 2
On to defense ...
FG Shooting
Overall
177-405 (43.7%)
Per Game
25.2-57.8
Home
121-278 (43.5%)
Per Game
24.2-55.6
Away
56-127 (45.6%)
Per Game
28-63.5
Wins
42-121 (34.7%)
Per Game
21-60.5
Losses
135-284 (47.5%)
Per Game
27-56.8
Thoughts
I guess it doesn't take a math genius to see that UNCG is playing better defense in it's wins than losses. However, it's a pretty staggering difference in percentages. If they can stay closer to the 35% mark that they are allowing in their 2 wins, UNCG should see a lot more W's than L's going forward.
3 Pt Shooting
Overall
51-127 (40.1%)
Per Game
7.2-18.1
Home
35-86 (40.6%)
Per Game
7-17.2
Away
16-41 (29.0%)
Per Game
8-20.5
Wins
9-33 (27.2%)
Per Game
4.5-16.5
Losses
42-94 (44.6%)
Per Game
8.4-18.8
Thoughts
Pretty much the same story as with FG shooting. If UNCG can hold teams to less than 5 made 3's per game, they will be in better shape.
FT Shooting
Overall
141-192 (73.4%)
Per Game
20-27.4
Home
115-158 (72.7%)
Per Game
23-31.6
Away
26-34 (76.4%)
Per Game
13-17
Wins
26-44 (59.0%)
Per Game
13-22
Losses
115-148 (77.7%)
Per Game
23-29.6
Thoughts
UNCG is allowing way too many free throw attempts overall and then teams have definitely been taking advantage of those attempts. I suspect when I look at foul numbers I'll see similar numbers, but I'll wait till part 4 to do the real comparisons.
FG Shooting
Overall
177-405 (43.7%)
Per Game
25.2-57.8
Home
121-278 (43.5%)
Per Game
24.2-55.6
Away
56-127 (45.6%)
Per Game
28-63.5
Wins
42-121 (34.7%)
Per Game
21-60.5
Losses
135-284 (47.5%)
Per Game
27-56.8
Thoughts
I guess it doesn't take a math genius to see that UNCG is playing better defense in it's wins than losses. However, it's a pretty staggering difference in percentages. If they can stay closer to the 35% mark that they are allowing in their 2 wins, UNCG should see a lot more W's than L's going forward.
3 Pt Shooting
Overall
51-127 (40.1%)
Per Game
7.2-18.1
Home
35-86 (40.6%)
Per Game
7-17.2
Away
16-41 (29.0%)
Per Game
8-20.5
Wins
9-33 (27.2%)
Per Game
4.5-16.5
Losses
42-94 (44.6%)
Per Game
8.4-18.8
Thoughts
Pretty much the same story as with FG shooting. If UNCG can hold teams to less than 5 made 3's per game, they will be in better shape.
FT Shooting
Overall
141-192 (73.4%)
Per Game
20-27.4
Home
115-158 (72.7%)
Per Game
23-31.6
Away
26-34 (76.4%)
Per Game
13-17
Wins
26-44 (59.0%)
Per Game
13-22
Losses
115-148 (77.7%)
Per Game
23-29.6
Thoughts
UNCG is allowing way too many free throw attempts overall and then teams have definitely been taking advantage of those attempts. I suspect when I look at foul numbers I'll see similar numbers, but I'll wait till part 4 to do the real comparisons.
Tuesday, December 11, 2012
UNCG By the Numbers - Part 1
Since the season has reached a natural break point, I thought it would be a good time to look as some statistics and draw some conclusions from the numbers. The first installment will look at some offensive numbers ...
FG Shooting
Overall
Overall
199-453 (43.9%)
Per Game
28.4-64.7
Home
147-334 (44.0%)
Per Game
29.4-66.8
Away
52-119 (43.7%)
Per Game
26-59.5
Wins
64-119 (53.8%)
Per Game
32-59.5
Losses
135-334 (40.4%)
Per Game
27-66.8
Thoughts
The only really thing that stands out here is that UNCG hasn't shot the ball particularly well overall. However, they have shot it very well in their 2 wins.
3 Pt Shooting
Overall
62-179 (34.6%)
Per Game
8.8-25.1
Home
43-136 (31.6%)
Per Game
8.6-27.2
Away
19-43 (44.2%)
Per Game
9.5-21.5
Wins
20-47 (42.6%)
Per Game
10-23.5
Losses
42-132 (31.8%)
Per Game
8.4-26.4
Thoughts
The only way to look at this is that UNCG makes a lot of shots behind the arc. They make more and in better percentages in the wins than losses. But 8.6 made 3 pointers per game is a lot.
FT Shooting
Overall
91-138 (70.3%)
Per Game
13-19.7
Home
74-103 (71.8%)
Per Game
14.8-20.6
Away
23-35 (65.7%)
Per Game
11.5-17.5
Wins
17-22 (77.3%)
Per Game
8.5-11
Losses
80-116 (69.0%)
Per Game
16-23.2
Thoughts
All of these numbers are above average. UNCG is definitely an upper level team at shooting free throws. Without breaking down actual game tape, it hard to really use this stat for too much though. If you really wanted to get much deeper in depth, looking at free throw shooting in the final 2 minutes or in 1-and-1 situations. But still shooting above 70% is a good thing and should pay dividends throughout the season.
Saturday, December 1, 2012
Spartans Rebound in a Huge Way
UNCG 84 - Citadel 54
UNCG Athletics
Citadel Athletics
Halftime: UNCG 46 - Citadel 21
UNCG Stats
Leader Points: Drew Parker (15)
Leader Rebounds: Korey Van Dussen (6)
Leader Assists: Parker, Van Dussen, Armstrong (tied - 4)
Team FG: 33-56 (58.9%)
Team 3 Pt: 11-21 (52.4%)
Team FT: 7-8 (87.5%)
Rebounds: 41
Turnovers: 12
Citadel Stats
Leader Points: Mike Groselle (20.0)
Leader Rebounds: Groselle, Moore (tied - 4)
Leader Assists: Marshall Harris III (6)
Team FG: 17-55 (30.9%)
Team 3 Pt: 5/17 (29.4%)
Team FT: 15-21 (71.4%)
Rebounds: 19
Turnovers: 7
Thoughts
It's amazing what a little bit of defense and some made shots can do for a team. As bad as UNCG looked on Wednesday night, they look as good on Saturday night. The Spartans dominated in every way possible.
It was great to see the team show up and bring a ton of defensive intensity right off the bat and sustain it for almost the entire game. It was also nice to see a lot of different contribute. 7 players score 7 or more points and the post players did a very nice on Mike Groselle. Even though Groselle got his 20 points, he had to battle hard with all of the guys the Spartans threw at him.
Now UNCG has off 2 weeks for exams. It will give them time to excel in the classroom and work on some things in practice. This is a great way to go into a break.
1-0 in the SoCon.
UNCG Athletics
Citadel Athletics
Halftime: UNCG 46 - Citadel 21
UNCG Stats
Leader Points: Drew Parker (15)
Leader Rebounds: Korey Van Dussen (6)
Leader Assists: Parker, Van Dussen, Armstrong (tied - 4)
Team FG: 33-56 (58.9%)
Team 3 Pt: 11-21 (52.4%)
Team FT: 7-8 (87.5%)
Rebounds: 41
Turnovers: 12
Citadel Stats
Leader Points: Mike Groselle (20.0)
Leader Rebounds: Groselle, Moore (tied - 4)
Leader Assists: Marshall Harris III (6)
Team FG: 17-55 (30.9%)
Team 3 Pt: 5/17 (29.4%)
Team FT: 15-21 (71.4%)
Rebounds: 19
Turnovers: 7
Thoughts
It's amazing what a little bit of defense and some made shots can do for a team. As bad as UNCG looked on Wednesday night, they look as good on Saturday night. The Spartans dominated in every way possible.
It was great to see the team show up and bring a ton of defensive intensity right off the bat and sustain it for almost the entire game. It was also nice to see a lot of different contribute. 7 players score 7 or more points and the post players did a very nice on Mike Groselle. Even though Groselle got his 20 points, he had to battle hard with all of the guys the Spartans threw at him.
Now UNCG has off 2 weeks for exams. It will give them time to excel in the classroom and work on some things in practice. This is a great way to go into a break.
1-0 in the SoCon.
Friday, November 30, 2012
Citadel (3-2) @ UNCG (1-5)
When: Saturday, December 1 7 pm
Where: Greensboro Coliseum (7,617/23,500)
TV: None/Spartan All-Access
Citadel Athletics
UNCG Stats
Last Game: NC A&T (L 79-90) Recap
PPG: 78.8
RPG: 40.7
APG: 13.3
Leader Points: Trevis Simpson (20.2)
Leader Reboudns: Kelvin McNeil (8.2)
Leader Assists: Drew Parker (3.8)
FG %: 41.8
3 Pt %: 32.3
FT %: 69.2
Citadel Stats
Last game: Radford (L 61-74) Recap
PPG: 73.8
RPG: 34.2
APG: 18.4
Leader Points: Mike Groselle (15.4)
Leader Rebounds: Mike Groselle (9.6)
Leader Assists: Marshall Harris III (5.8)
FG %: 50.0
3 Pt %: 37.2
FT %: 78.0
Thoughts
Well, let's see if UNCG can answer the bell. On Wednesday night, they were knocked down hard by their rivals from NC A&T. Since then, the UNCG fan base has been in panic/meltdown mode. I really want to see UNCG bring it all to the floor of the Greensboro Coliseum on Saturday night.
This is a conference game. It counts and it matters. It will be just as important as a game in January or February. Plus, it's a home conference game. Again, this one is big.
From a match up standpoint, the Citadel is going to be tough for a UNCG team that is struggling on the defensive end of the court. The Bulldogs shoot the ball very well, but turn it over 18 times a game. The Spartans will have to do a good job covering All-SoCon player Mike Groselle. He's the Citadel's do everything player. UNCG will have to throw multiple post players at him and hope to slow him down.
There's a lot I could continue to write about this game. But I think I'm going to hold off saying much more and see how UNCG responds to the events of this week. I hope it's a positive recap I'm writing tomorrow night.
Go Spartans !!!
Where: Greensboro Coliseum (7,617/23,500)
TV: None/Spartan All-Access
Citadel Athletics
UNCG Stats
Last Game: NC A&T (L 79-90) Recap
PPG: 78.8
RPG: 40.7
APG: 13.3
Leader Points: Trevis Simpson (20.2)
Leader Reboudns: Kelvin McNeil (8.2)
Leader Assists: Drew Parker (3.8)
FG %: 41.8
3 Pt %: 32.3
FT %: 69.2
Citadel Stats
Last game: Radford (L 61-74) Recap
PPG: 73.8
RPG: 34.2
APG: 18.4
Leader Points: Mike Groselle (15.4)
Leader Rebounds: Mike Groselle (9.6)
Leader Assists: Marshall Harris III (5.8)
FG %: 50.0
3 Pt %: 37.2
FT %: 78.0
Thoughts
Well, let's see if UNCG can answer the bell. On Wednesday night, they were knocked down hard by their rivals from NC A&T. Since then, the UNCG fan base has been in panic/meltdown mode. I really want to see UNCG bring it all to the floor of the Greensboro Coliseum on Saturday night.
This is a conference game. It counts and it matters. It will be just as important as a game in January or February. Plus, it's a home conference game. Again, this one is big.
From a match up standpoint, the Citadel is going to be tough for a UNCG team that is struggling on the defensive end of the court. The Bulldogs shoot the ball very well, but turn it over 18 times a game. The Spartans will have to do a good job covering All-SoCon player Mike Groselle. He's the Citadel's do everything player. UNCG will have to throw multiple post players at him and hope to slow him down.
There's a lot I could continue to write about this game. But I think I'm going to hold off saying much more and see how UNCG responds to the events of this week. I hope it's a positive recap I'm writing tomorrow night.
Go Spartans !!!
Thursday, November 29, 2012
Their Greensboro, Their Game
UNCG 79 - NC A&T 90
UNCG Athletics
NC A&T Athletics
Halftime: UNCG 30 - NC A&T 42
UNCG Stats
Leader Points: Kayel Locke (22)
Leader Rebounds: Locke, McNeil, Armstrong (tied - 9)
Leader Assists: Derrell Armstrong (2)
Team FG: 22-71 (31.0%)
Team 3 Pt: 5-29 (17.2%)
Team FT: 30-40 (75.0%)
Rebounds: 50
Turnovers: 18
NC A&T Stats
Leader Points: LaMont Middleton (24)
Leader Rebounds: Austin Witter (10)
Leader Assists: Powell, Middleton (tied - 2)
Team FG: 24-50 (48.0%)
Team 3 Pt: 8-21 (38.1%)
Team FT: 34-47 (72.3%)
Rebounds: 38
Turnovers: 21
Thoughts
Well ... let's start by stating the obvious. That was ugly and it took forever to finish. It was a disaster. UNCG played very poorly. NC A&T came out with a passion and controlled the game from the middle of the first half to the finish. They wanted this game. The Spartans took 21 more shots than the Aggies. They out rebounded them by 12 and forced them into 21 turnovers. Those are winning team stats. So, why wasn't this game a win?
Don't be fooled, UNCG made a couple of chip shots at the end to get above 30% shooting. I was thoroughly shocked at the number of layups UNCG missed on the night. I stopped counting in the second half when it got to 7. The Spartans have to take better shots (see: 29 3-Pt attempts) and have to make those shots.
Also, UNCG has got to stop opponents from getting what ever looks they want when they are on offense. It seems like there are so many breakdowns on every defensive possession that everyone is out of place by the end.
I did like the play of Kelvin McNeil and Kayel Locke. I think Locke has the potential to be something really special during his time at UNCG. McNeil has really brought some toughness to the floor every night and it's something that the team truly lacks right now.
At this point, it's time for the Spartans to get together and decide how this season is going to play out. SoCon play starts on Saturday with a game they can win. But they have to get on the same page and go win it. It would be a shame to see so much promise go to waste so fast.
UPDATE: Can we now do away with that stupid "Our Greensboro, Our Game" saying? It seems a little inappropriate right now.
UNCG Athletics
NC A&T Athletics
Halftime: UNCG 30 - NC A&T 42
UNCG Stats
Leader Points: Kayel Locke (22)
Leader Rebounds: Locke, McNeil, Armstrong (tied - 9)
Leader Assists: Derrell Armstrong (2)
Team FG: 22-71 (31.0%)
Team 3 Pt: 5-29 (17.2%)
Team FT: 30-40 (75.0%)
Rebounds: 50
Turnovers: 18
NC A&T Stats
Leader Points: LaMont Middleton (24)
Leader Rebounds: Austin Witter (10)
Leader Assists: Powell, Middleton (tied - 2)
Team FG: 24-50 (48.0%)
Team 3 Pt: 8-21 (38.1%)
Team FT: 34-47 (72.3%)
Rebounds: 38
Turnovers: 21
Thoughts
Well ... let's start by stating the obvious. That was ugly and it took forever to finish. It was a disaster. UNCG played very poorly. NC A&T came out with a passion and controlled the game from the middle of the first half to the finish. They wanted this game. The Spartans took 21 more shots than the Aggies. They out rebounded them by 12 and forced them into 21 turnovers. Those are winning team stats. So, why wasn't this game a win?
Don't be fooled, UNCG made a couple of chip shots at the end to get above 30% shooting. I was thoroughly shocked at the number of layups UNCG missed on the night. I stopped counting in the second half when it got to 7. The Spartans have to take better shots (see: 29 3-Pt attempts) and have to make those shots.
Also, UNCG has got to stop opponents from getting what ever looks they want when they are on offense. It seems like there are so many breakdowns on every defensive possession that everyone is out of place by the end.
I did like the play of Kelvin McNeil and Kayel Locke. I think Locke has the potential to be something really special during his time at UNCG. McNeil has really brought some toughness to the floor every night and it's something that the team truly lacks right now.
At this point, it's time for the Spartans to get together and decide how this season is going to play out. SoCon play starts on Saturday with a game they can win. But they have to get on the same page and go win it. It would be a shame to see so much promise go to waste so fast.
UPDATE: Can we now do away with that stupid "Our Greensboro, Our Game" saying? It seems a little inappropriate right now.
Tuesday, November 27, 2012
NC A&T (2-5) @ UNCG (1-4)
When: Wednesday, November 28 7 pm
Where: Greensboro Coliseum (7,617/23,500)
TV: None/Spartan All-Access
NC A&T Athletics
UNCG Stats
Last Game: Rutgers (L 87-80) Recap
PPG: 78.8
RPG: 38.8
APG: 14.6
Leader Points: Trevis Simpson (20.8)
Leader Rebounds: Kelvin McNeil (8.0)
Leader Assists: Drew Parker (4.4)
FG %: 44.2
3 Pt %: 35.7
FT %: 66.7
NC A&T Stats
Last Game: Jacksonville State (L 50-54 OT) Recap
PPG: 59.0
RPG: 35.7
APG: 10.3
Leader Points: LaMontMiddleton (12.1)
Leader Rebounds: Austin Witter (6.1)
Leader Assists: LaMont Middleton (2.7)
FG%: 37.1
3 Pt%: 22.6
FT %: 69.9
Thoughts
NC A&T has played a mostly road schedule and has struggled. The stats show that. It really doesn't matter, though. The last 2 years the Aggies have absolutely wanted this rivalry game. Not only have they won these games, but they have manhandled the Spartans in the process.
Last season's game was a mess. The Spartans were blown out. In the aftermath, players started attacking fans on Twitter and the result basically got the coach fired. UNCG was probably the favorite last year and is probably the favorite this year. However, UNCG hasn't shown the ability to win a close game and had faded when the game was on the line.
As a die hard Spartan fan, its hurt to type paragraphs like those last two. But both are 100% true. What I hope to see on the court Wednesday night is a team that is loose, excited, enthusiastic and (most importantly) a team that is ready to grab this game and own it!
Go Spartans !!!
Where: Greensboro Coliseum (7,617/23,500)
TV: None/Spartan All-Access
NC A&T Athletics
UNCG Stats
Last Game: Rutgers (L 87-80) Recap
PPG: 78.8
RPG: 38.8
APG: 14.6
Leader Points: Trevis Simpson (20.8)
Leader Rebounds: Kelvin McNeil (8.0)
Leader Assists: Drew Parker (4.4)
FG %: 44.2
3 Pt %: 35.7
FT %: 66.7
NC A&T Stats
Last Game: Jacksonville State (L 50-54 OT) Recap
PPG: 59.0
RPG: 35.7
APG: 10.3
Leader Points: LaMontMiddleton (12.1)
Leader Rebounds: Austin Witter (6.1)
Leader Assists: LaMont Middleton (2.7)
FG%: 37.1
3 Pt%: 22.6
FT %: 69.9
Thoughts
NC A&T has played a mostly road schedule and has struggled. The stats show that. It really doesn't matter, though. The last 2 years the Aggies have absolutely wanted this rivalry game. Not only have they won these games, but they have manhandled the Spartans in the process.
Last season's game was a mess. The Spartans were blown out. In the aftermath, players started attacking fans on Twitter and the result basically got the coach fired. UNCG was probably the favorite last year and is probably the favorite this year. However, UNCG hasn't shown the ability to win a close game and had faded when the game was on the line.
As a die hard Spartan fan, its hurt to type paragraphs like those last two. But both are 100% true. What I hope to see on the court Wednesday night is a team that is loose, excited, enthusiastic and (most importantly) a team that is ready to grab this game and own it!
Go Spartans !!!
Monday, November 26, 2012
Spartans Falter at the End ... Again
UNCG 80 - Rutgers 87
UNCG Athletics
Rutgers Athletics
Halftime: UNCG 43 - Rutgers 40
UNCG Stats:
Leader Points: Derrell Armstrong (25)
Leader Rebounds: Kelvin McNeil (11)
Leader Assists: Korey Van Dussen (4)
Team FG: 29-69 (42.0%)
Team 3 Pt: 7-25 (28.0%)
Team FT: 15-24 (62.5%)
Rebounds: 40
Turnovers: 16
Rutgers Stats
Leader Points: Eli Carter (25)
Leader Rebounds: Malick Kone (5)
Leader Assists: Myles Mack (5)
Team FG: 31-54 (57.4%)
Team 3 Pt: 4-10 (40.0%)
Team FT: 21-25 (84.0%)
Rebounds: 30
Turnovers: 18
Thoughts
It's the same script as last Monday. Play well at times. Lead at times. Make exciting plays. But in the end, the Spartans couldn't make enough plays to pull out the win.
This time, the defense is clearly the sore spot. The Scarlet Knights shot over 57% and ti really wasn't just a hot shooting team. Mostly it was getting easy shots and lay ups. For the second straight game, it was a problem for UNCG to keep a quick guard in front. The major problem was that this time, the opponent had two super quick guards. Those two players alone scored 49 of 87 Rutgers points.
So, it again comes down to the same thing, UNCG has got to close teams out. I hope they start soon.
Go Spartans !!!
UNCG Athletics
Rutgers Athletics
Halftime: UNCG 43 - Rutgers 40
UNCG Stats:
Leader Points: Derrell Armstrong (25)
Leader Rebounds: Kelvin McNeil (11)
Leader Assists: Korey Van Dussen (4)
Team FG: 29-69 (42.0%)
Team 3 Pt: 7-25 (28.0%)
Team FT: 15-24 (62.5%)
Rebounds: 40
Turnovers: 16
Rutgers Stats
Leader Points: Eli Carter (25)
Leader Rebounds: Malick Kone (5)
Leader Assists: Myles Mack (5)
Team FG: 31-54 (57.4%)
Team 3 Pt: 4-10 (40.0%)
Team FT: 21-25 (84.0%)
Rebounds: 30
Turnovers: 18
Thoughts
It's the same script as last Monday. Play well at times. Lead at times. Make exciting plays. But in the end, the Spartans couldn't make enough plays to pull out the win.
This time, the defense is clearly the sore spot. The Scarlet Knights shot over 57% and ti really wasn't just a hot shooting team. Mostly it was getting easy shots and lay ups. For the second straight game, it was a problem for UNCG to keep a quick guard in front. The major problem was that this time, the opponent had two super quick guards. Those two players alone scored 49 of 87 Rutgers points.
So, it again comes down to the same thing, UNCG has got to close teams out. I hope they start soon.
Go Spartans !!!
Saturday, November 24, 2012
Rutgers (3-1) @ UNCG (1-3)
When: Sunday, November 25 2 pm
Where: Greensboro Coliseum (7,617/23,500)
TV: None/Spartan All-Access
Rutgers Athletics
UNCG Stats
Last Game: Virginia Tech (L 87-96) Recap
PPG: 78.5
RPG: 38.5
APG: 15.5
Leader Points: Trevis Simpson (22.0)
Leader Rebounds: Kelvin McNeil (7.3)
Leader Assists: Drew Parker (5.3)
FG %: 44.7
3 Pt %: 37.5
FT %: 68.2
Rutgers Stats
Last Game: Boston University (W 81-79) Recap
PPG: 68.9
RPG: 41.0
APG: 13.5
Leader Points: Eli Carter (16.3)
Leader Rebounds: Wally Judge (9.0)
Leader Assists: Dane Miller (2.8)
FG %: 45.5
3 Pt %: 29.6
FT %: 67.8
Thoughts
This will be the first trip out side of New Jersey for Rutgers. The Scarlet Knights have played a full slate of mid major teams. After dropping their opening game to Saint Peter's at home, Rutgers has won the last 3 games in varying degrees.
Rutgers stats are a little skewed because of playing a game against Princeton. However, I doubt they will choose to get into a running affair with the Spartans. The Scarlet Knights have a distinctive size advantage and don't shoot the ball particularly well from the outside. So, look for them to go inside on most possessions.
The Spartans have done a nice job of staying in every game this season. However, they've struggled at closing the deal. Tomorrow will be another opportunity. I don't expect a large crowd at the coliseum tomorrow. The time and holiday should make for a very small student turnout. So, UNCG will need to bring it's own energy to the court and feed off of who ever turns out for this one.
G is still one of the few SoCon teams remaining that hasn't defeated and D1 team this year. It's time to go do that on Sunday afternoon.
Go Spartans !!!
Where: Greensboro Coliseum (7,617/23,500)
TV: None/Spartan All-Access
Rutgers Athletics
UNCG Stats
Last Game: Virginia Tech (L 87-96) Recap
PPG: 78.5
RPG: 38.5
APG: 15.5
Leader Points: Trevis Simpson (22.0)
Leader Rebounds: Kelvin McNeil (7.3)
Leader Assists: Drew Parker (5.3)
FG %: 44.7
3 Pt %: 37.5
FT %: 68.2
Rutgers Stats
Last Game: Boston University (W 81-79) Recap
PPG: 68.9
RPG: 41.0
APG: 13.5
Leader Points: Eli Carter (16.3)
Leader Rebounds: Wally Judge (9.0)
Leader Assists: Dane Miller (2.8)
FG %: 45.5
3 Pt %: 29.6
FT %: 67.8
Thoughts
This will be the first trip out side of New Jersey for Rutgers. The Scarlet Knights have played a full slate of mid major teams. After dropping their opening game to Saint Peter's at home, Rutgers has won the last 3 games in varying degrees.
Rutgers stats are a little skewed because of playing a game against Princeton. However, I doubt they will choose to get into a running affair with the Spartans. The Scarlet Knights have a distinctive size advantage and don't shoot the ball particularly well from the outside. So, look for them to go inside on most possessions.
The Spartans have done a nice job of staying in every game this season. However, they've struggled at closing the deal. Tomorrow will be another opportunity. I don't expect a large crowd at the coliseum tomorrow. The time and holiday should make for a very small student turnout. So, UNCG will need to bring it's own energy to the court and feed off of who ever turns out for this one.
G is still one of the few SoCon teams remaining that hasn't defeated and D1 team this year. It's time to go do that on Sunday afternoon.
Go Spartans !!!
Tuesday, November 20, 2012
Monday, November 19, 2012
Green & Eddie Help Hokies Survive Spartans
UNCG 87 - Virginia Tech 96
UNCG Athletics
VT Athletics
Halftime: UNCG 41 - Virginia Tech 45
UNCG Stats
Leader Points: Trevis Simpson (25)
Leader Reounds: Kelvin McNeil (12)
Leader Assists: Simpson, Drew Parker (tied - 4)
Team FG: 32-75 (42.7%)
Team 3 Pt: 11-35 (31.4%)
Team FT: 12-17 (70.6%)
Rebounds: 38
Turnovers: 9
Virginia Tech Stats
Leader Points: Jarell Eddie (28)
Leader Rebounds: Marshall Wood (11)
Leader Assists: Eric Green (6)
Team FG: 24-53 (45.3%)
Team 3 Pt: 14-22 (63.6%)
Team FT: 34-42 (81.0%)
Rebounds: 41
Turnovers: 14
Thoughts
- Coming tomorrow ... until then check out David Morrison's article. It's pretty spot on.
UPDATE: UNCG-VT Redux ...
I re-watched the game on ESPN3 replay (something I think everyone at the game should have done by now) and decided to post some of my thoughts.
- First off, I was not as upset about the foul calls during the replay as I was during the actual game. I thought there were definitely some missed calls and a couple that I wish UNCG could have gotten on their end. However, the game didn't seem as out of balance as it did during first watch. Granted it still just seems wrong that in an even contest one team would shoot 42 free throws and the other 17.
- I also didn't realize in person just how much of an effect that Jarell Eddie had on the game in the final few minutes. With UNCG trailing by only 3 Eddie heavily contested a 3 point look by Armstrong and then made an even tougher 3 on the other end to extend the lead to 6 and basically ending UNCG's upset bid. He also pressured the usually sharpshooting Nick Paulos into one of the tougher shooting nights he's had as a Spartan. His length also effected Simpson and Armstrong at times.
It's tough to lose a game against an ACC team that you have on the ropes, but hopefully the Spartans can learn and grow from this loss and close out the next team it has in this position.
UNCG Athletics
VT Athletics
Halftime: UNCG 41 - Virginia Tech 45
UNCG Stats
Leader Points: Trevis Simpson (25)
Leader Reounds: Kelvin McNeil (12)
Leader Assists: Simpson, Drew Parker (tied - 4)
Team FG: 32-75 (42.7%)
Team 3 Pt: 11-35 (31.4%)
Team FT: 12-17 (70.6%)
Rebounds: 38
Turnovers: 9
Virginia Tech Stats
Leader Points: Jarell Eddie (28)
Leader Rebounds: Marshall Wood (11)
Leader Assists: Eric Green (6)
Team FG: 24-53 (45.3%)
Team 3 Pt: 14-22 (63.6%)
Team FT: 34-42 (81.0%)
Rebounds: 41
Turnovers: 14
Thoughts
- Coming tomorrow ... until then check out David Morrison's article. It's pretty spot on.
UPDATE: UNCG-VT Redux ...
I re-watched the game on ESPN3 replay (something I think everyone at the game should have done by now) and decided to post some of my thoughts.
- First off, I was not as upset about the foul calls during the replay as I was during the actual game. I thought there were definitely some missed calls and a couple that I wish UNCG could have gotten on their end. However, the game didn't seem as out of balance as it did during first watch. Granted it still just seems wrong that in an even contest one team would shoot 42 free throws and the other 17.
- I also didn't realize in person just how much of an effect that Jarell Eddie had on the game in the final few minutes. With UNCG trailing by only 3 Eddie heavily contested a 3 point look by Armstrong and then made an even tougher 3 on the other end to extend the lead to 6 and basically ending UNCG's upset bid. He also pressured the usually sharpshooting Nick Paulos into one of the tougher shooting nights he's had as a Spartan. His length also effected Simpson and Armstrong at times.
It's tough to lose a game against an ACC team that you have on the ropes, but hopefully the Spartans can learn and grow from this loss and close out the next team it has in this position.
Sunday, November 18, 2012
Virginia Tech (3-0) @ UNCG (1-2)
When: Monday, November 19 7 pm
Where: Greensboro Coliseum (7,617/23,500)
TV: ESPN3 & Spartan All-Access
VA Tech Athletics
UNCG Stats
Last game: @ East Carolina (L 73-76) Recap
PPG: 75.7
RPG: 38.7
APG: 15.3
Leader Points: Trevis Simpson (21.0)
Leader Rebounds: Kelvin McNeil (5.7)
Leader Assists: Drew Parker (5.7)
FG %: 45.6
3 Pt %: 40.6
FT %: 67.3
Virginia Tech Stats
Last game: VMI (W 95-80) Recap
PPG: 81.3
RPG: 41.0
APG: 16.3
Leader Points: Eric Green (23.0)
Leader Rebounds: Jarell Eddie (8.7)
Leader Assists: Eric Green (5.3)
FG %: 48.6
3 Pt %: 40.0
FT %: 67.9
Thoughts
The good news is this game is at home. The bad news is that UNCG is playing a team that has superior size and depth. With such a quick turnaround, I hope the Spartans have recovered the legs and are able to put a tough loss behind them. I'd hate to see ECU beat UNCG twice.
On the bright side, I think that the Hokies will be more inclined to play UNCG's style and not try to turn this game into a grind. If that's the case then the Spartans at least have a chance. They will have to play two complete halves of basketball, though.
I'm hoping for a good crowd and an electric atmosphere. At this point, there's no reason for anyone to be exceedingly upset about the Spartan';s play. They've played two rough road games and had relatively good showings. It's a shame that they weren't able to pick up the wins in either of those games. However, it's not like anyone in the SoCon has shown themselves to be "world beaters".
So with that being said, I'm going to show up on Monday night optimistic and looking for a good fight from UNCG.
Go Spartans !!!
Where: Greensboro Coliseum (7,617/23,500)
TV: ESPN3 & Spartan All-Access
VA Tech Athletics
UNCG Stats
Last game: @ East Carolina (L 73-76) Recap
PPG: 75.7
RPG: 38.7
APG: 15.3
Leader Points: Trevis Simpson (21.0)
Leader Rebounds: Kelvin McNeil (5.7)
Leader Assists: Drew Parker (5.7)
FG %: 45.6
3 Pt %: 40.6
FT %: 67.3
Virginia Tech Stats
Last game: VMI (W 95-80) Recap
PPG: 81.3
RPG: 41.0
APG: 16.3
Leader Points: Eric Green (23.0)
Leader Rebounds: Jarell Eddie (8.7)
Leader Assists: Eric Green (5.3)
FG %: 48.6
3 Pt %: 40.0
FT %: 67.9
Thoughts
The good news is this game is at home. The bad news is that UNCG is playing a team that has superior size and depth. With such a quick turnaround, I hope the Spartans have recovered the legs and are able to put a tough loss behind them. I'd hate to see ECU beat UNCG twice.
On the bright side, I think that the Hokies will be more inclined to play UNCG's style and not try to turn this game into a grind. If that's the case then the Spartans at least have a chance. They will have to play two complete halves of basketball, though.
I'm hoping for a good crowd and an electric atmosphere. At this point, there's no reason for anyone to be exceedingly upset about the Spartan';s play. They've played two rough road games and had relatively good showings. It's a shame that they weren't able to pick up the wins in either of those games. However, it's not like anyone in the SoCon has shown themselves to be "world beaters".
So with that being said, I'm going to show up on Monday night optimistic and looking for a good fight from UNCG.
Go Spartans !!!
Saturday, November 17, 2012
Pirates Heat Up Late, Beat UNCG
UNCG 73 - East Carolina 76
UNCG Athletics
Halftime: UNCG 39 - ECU 31
UNCG Stats
Leader Points: Trevis Simpson (19)
Leader Rebounds: Derrell Armstrong (8)
Leader Assists: Drew Parker (6)
FG: 26-59 (44.1%)
3 Pt: 11-23 (47.8%)
FT: 10-12 (83.3%)
Rebounds: 34
Turnovers: 14
East Carolina Stats
Leader Points: Miguel Paul (24)
Leader Rebounds: Maurice Kemp (10)
Leader Assists: Maurice Kemp (4)
FG: 24-49 (49.0%)
3 Pt: 7-22 (31.8%)
FT: 21-30 (70.0%)
Rebounds: 31
Turnovers: 10
Thoughts
UNCG led for the majority of this game, but went without a field goal from the 9:32 mark of the second half to the 2:53 mark. Over that span, UNCG went from being up 6 to down 6. Also, the Spartans shot 18 less free throws (made 11 less) than the Pirates.
Having said all of that, the Spartans had 2 chances at the end to send the game to overtime. After Trevis Simpson's attempt was rebounded by Derrell Armstrong, Coach Wes Miller tried in vain to get a timeout. However, the refs couldn't hear Miller and Armstrong's last second prayer wasn't answered.
Even in the loss, UNCG did a lot of things better than they had in previous games. First, they played better post defense and got contributions from more than just Simpson (Van Dussen 18 pts, Locke 14 pts) and they managed to play well in a grinder game that didn't have high possessions and saw the Spartans only get 6 fast break points. Also the Spartans seemed to bring a consistant effort and intensity to the court.
So while a chance to get a road victory didn't happen, there are plenty of things to build off of going forward. Now there are chances to defeat two "Power Six" conference teams at the Greensboro Coliseum. It's time to seize some of these opportunities.
Go Spartans !!!
UNCG Athletics
Halftime: UNCG 39 - ECU 31
UNCG Stats
Leader Points: Trevis Simpson (19)
Leader Rebounds: Derrell Armstrong (8)
Leader Assists: Drew Parker (6)
FG: 26-59 (44.1%)
3 Pt: 11-23 (47.8%)
FT: 10-12 (83.3%)
Rebounds: 34
Turnovers: 14
East Carolina Stats
Leader Points: Miguel Paul (24)
Leader Rebounds: Maurice Kemp (10)
Leader Assists: Maurice Kemp (4)
FG: 24-49 (49.0%)
3 Pt: 7-22 (31.8%)
FT: 21-30 (70.0%)
Rebounds: 31
Turnovers: 10
Thoughts
UNCG led for the majority of this game, but went without a field goal from the 9:32 mark of the second half to the 2:53 mark. Over that span, UNCG went from being up 6 to down 6. Also, the Spartans shot 18 less free throws (made 11 less) than the Pirates.
Having said all of that, the Spartans had 2 chances at the end to send the game to overtime. After Trevis Simpson's attempt was rebounded by Derrell Armstrong, Coach Wes Miller tried in vain to get a timeout. However, the refs couldn't hear Miller and Armstrong's last second prayer wasn't answered.
Even in the loss, UNCG did a lot of things better than they had in previous games. First, they played better post defense and got contributions from more than just Simpson (Van Dussen 18 pts, Locke 14 pts) and they managed to play well in a grinder game that didn't have high possessions and saw the Spartans only get 6 fast break points. Also the Spartans seemed to bring a consistant effort and intensity to the court.
So while a chance to get a road victory didn't happen, there are plenty of things to build off of going forward. Now there are chances to defeat two "Power Six" conference teams at the Greensboro Coliseum. It's time to seize some of these opportunities.
Go Spartans !!!
Thursday, November 15, 2012
UNCG (1-1) @ East Carolina (2-0)
When: Friday, November 16 7 pm
Where: Minges Coliseum (8,000)
TV: None
East Carolina Athletics
UNCG Stats
Last Game: WSSU (W 81-65) Recap
PPG: 77.0
RPG: 41.0
APG: 15.0
Leader Points: Trevis Simpson (22.0)
Leader Rebounds: David Williams (7.0)
Leader Assists: Drew Parker (5.5)
FG %: 46.3
3 Pt %: 37.0
FT %: 62.2
East Carolina Stats
Last Game: Methodist (W 87-51) Recap
PPG: 79.5
RPG: 44.0
APG: 18.5
Leader Points: Maurice Kemp (20.0)
Leader Rebounds: Robert Sampson (9.0)
Leader Assists: Shamarr Bowden (6.5)
FG %: 46.6
3 Pt %: 22.2%
FT %: 64.1
Thoughts
Well, it's back to the road for this work in progress Spartan squad. It will be interesting to see if the UNCG can bring a more consistent effort to the offensive and defensive ends of the court. We all know that this team has a lot of athleticism, but the team needs to be stronger with the ball and take better shots. They also need to dig in on defense in every trip down the court. And finally they need to start limiting the offensive rebounds.
Having said that, UNCG has shown that they can wear down other teams with the shear volume of possessions. They also have shown the ability to stick to their plan and to not lose focus or confidence. These qualities will serve the Spartans well in another hostile venue.
As far as the opponent, it's awful hard to judge anything from two games against lower level opponents (ECU plays 4 non-D1 teams). They appear to be able to rebound well and shoot very well from inside the 3 point arc. They always seem to play well in Minges Coliseum.
UNCG has lost 5 straight to the Pirates and really all but one has been pretty lopsided. I hope the Spartans can change that storyline this trip to Greenville. Go Spartans !!!
Where: Minges Coliseum (8,000)
TV: None
East Carolina Athletics
UNCG Stats
Last Game: WSSU (W 81-65) Recap
PPG: 77.0
RPG: 41.0
APG: 15.0
Leader Points: Trevis Simpson (22.0)
Leader Rebounds: David Williams (7.0)
Leader Assists: Drew Parker (5.5)
FG %: 46.3
3 Pt %: 37.0
FT %: 62.2
East Carolina Stats
Last Game: Methodist (W 87-51) Recap
PPG: 79.5
RPG: 44.0
APG: 18.5
Leader Points: Maurice Kemp (20.0)
Leader Rebounds: Robert Sampson (9.0)
Leader Assists: Shamarr Bowden (6.5)
FG %: 46.6
3 Pt %: 22.2%
FT %: 64.1
Thoughts
Well, it's back to the road for this work in progress Spartan squad. It will be interesting to see if the UNCG can bring a more consistent effort to the offensive and defensive ends of the court. We all know that this team has a lot of athleticism, but the team needs to be stronger with the ball and take better shots. They also need to dig in on defense in every trip down the court. And finally they need to start limiting the offensive rebounds.
Having said that, UNCG has shown that they can wear down other teams with the shear volume of possessions. They also have shown the ability to stick to their plan and to not lose focus or confidence. These qualities will serve the Spartans well in another hostile venue.
As far as the opponent, it's awful hard to judge anything from two games against lower level opponents (ECU plays 4 non-D1 teams). They appear to be able to rebound well and shoot very well from inside the 3 point arc. They always seem to play well in Minges Coliseum.
UNCG has lost 5 straight to the Pirates and really all but one has been pretty lopsided. I hope the Spartans can change that storyline this trip to Greenville. Go Spartans !!!
Tuesday, November 13, 2012
Monday, November 12, 2012
Spartans Surge Past Rams
UNCG 81 - Winston-Salem State 65
UNCG Athletics
WSSU Athletics
Halftime: UNCG 39 - WSSU 32
UNCG Stats
Leader Points: Trevis Simpson (26)
Leader Rebounds: Armstrong, McNeil - tied (5)
Leader Assists: Drew Parker (7)
Team FG: 31-63 (49.2%)
Team 3 Pt: 9-26 (34.6%)
Team FT: 10-14 (71.4%)
Rebounds: 42
Turnovers: 14
WSSU Stats
Leader Points: Platt, Glover - tied (15)
Leader Rebounds: Bazemore (10)
Leader Assists: Wells (7)
Team FG: 25-66 (37.9%)
Team 3 Pt: 4-16 (25.0%)
Team FT: 11-23 (47.8%)
Rebounds: 42
Turnovers: 13
Thoughts
The Rams were as good as advertised. They came in ranked #15 in DII and had already played a solid exhibition contest at Duke. They spent the entire evening attacking UNCG in the soft spot ... the interior. The Spartans were even playing a little short handed, with David Williams out with a wrist injury.
UNCG was staring at a 4 point deficit with about 14 minutes to go and really answered the bell. Trevis Simpson scored 8 straight points during a 19-0 run that basically ended all thoughts of a Rams upset and ignited the large home crowd.
It was a quick turn around from the disappointment of Friday night's opener. But the Spartans came through with the W against the lower level squad from down the road. Now UNCG gets to go back on the road to Greenville to play ECU on Friday night. This team still has plenty of work to do to shore up it's inside play. However, this was a step in the right direction.
Go Spartans !!!
UNCG Athletics
WSSU Athletics
Halftime: UNCG 39 - WSSU 32
UNCG Stats
Leader Points: Trevis Simpson (26)
Leader Rebounds: Armstrong, McNeil - tied (5)
Leader Assists: Drew Parker (7)
Team FG: 31-63 (49.2%)
Team 3 Pt: 9-26 (34.6%)
Team FT: 10-14 (71.4%)
Rebounds: 42
Turnovers: 14
WSSU Stats
Leader Points: Platt, Glover - tied (15)
Leader Rebounds: Bazemore (10)
Leader Assists: Wells (7)
Team FG: 25-66 (37.9%)
Team 3 Pt: 4-16 (25.0%)
Team FT: 11-23 (47.8%)
Rebounds: 42
Turnovers: 13
Thoughts
The Rams were as good as advertised. They came in ranked #15 in DII and had already played a solid exhibition contest at Duke. They spent the entire evening attacking UNCG in the soft spot ... the interior. The Spartans were even playing a little short handed, with David Williams out with a wrist injury.
UNCG was staring at a 4 point deficit with about 14 minutes to go and really answered the bell. Trevis Simpson scored 8 straight points during a 19-0 run that basically ended all thoughts of a Rams upset and ignited the large home crowd.
It was a quick turn around from the disappointment of Friday night's opener. But the Spartans came through with the W against the lower level squad from down the road. Now UNCG gets to go back on the road to Greenville to play ECU on Friday night. This team still has plenty of work to do to shore up it's inside play. However, this was a step in the right direction.
Go Spartans !!!
Winston-Salem State (0-0) @ UNCG (0-1)
When: Monday, November 12 7 pm
Where: Greensboro Coliseum (7,617/23,500)
TV: None/Spartan All-Access
Winston-Salem State Athletics
UNCG Stats:
Last Game: @ High Point (L 73-81) Recap
PPG: 73.0
RPG: 40.0
APG: 13.0
Leader Points: Trevis Simpson (18.0)
Leader Rebounds: Trevis Simpson (18.0)
Leader Assists: Korey Van Dussen (4.0)
FG %: 43.4
3 Pt %: 40.0
FT %: 56.5
Winston-Salem State Stats:
Last Game: @ Duke-Exh. (L 45-69) Recap
PPG: 45.0
RPG: 44.0
APG: 4.0
Leader Points: WyKevin Bazemore (11.0)
Leader Rebounds: WyKevin Bazemore (17.0)
Leader Assists: Marcus Wells (3.0)
FG %: 29.3
3 Pt %: 18.2
FT %: 40.9
Thoughts:
Let's not be fooled. D1 or not, WSSU has a good squad this year. The above stats are slightly skewed thanks to a game against Duke. However, this team is ranked #15 in NCAA DII. Wells and Glover are a good guard tandem. Bazemore is an undersized rebounding machine (see: Kyle Hines). The Spartans need to come ready to play.
I'm going to work under the assumption that UNCG has watched their film from Friday night and got some of their issues in order. Luckily, tonight's game is not against a team with superior size. HPU used their size to really build the lead against UNCG. The Rams shouldn't be able to do the same thing.
I also expect the Spartans to be able to dictate pace better in this game. If they can cut down on some of the silly turnovers, I think UNCG can prevail. Also, I think a large crowd should help with the energy.
Go Spartans !!!
Where: Greensboro Coliseum (7,617/23,500)
TV: None/Spartan All-Access
Winston-Salem State Athletics
UNCG Stats:
Last Game: @ High Point (L 73-81) Recap
PPG: 73.0
RPG: 40.0
APG: 13.0
Leader Points: Trevis Simpson (18.0)
Leader Rebounds: Trevis Simpson (18.0)
Leader Assists: Korey Van Dussen (4.0)
FG %: 43.4
3 Pt %: 40.0
FT %: 56.5
Winston-Salem State Stats:
Last Game: @ Duke-Exh. (L 45-69) Recap
PPG: 45.0
RPG: 44.0
APG: 4.0
Leader Points: WyKevin Bazemore (11.0)
Leader Rebounds: WyKevin Bazemore (17.0)
Leader Assists: Marcus Wells (3.0)
FG %: 29.3
3 Pt %: 18.2
FT %: 40.9
Thoughts:
Let's not be fooled. D1 or not, WSSU has a good squad this year. The above stats are slightly skewed thanks to a game against Duke. However, this team is ranked #15 in NCAA DII. Wells and Glover are a good guard tandem. Bazemore is an undersized rebounding machine (see: Kyle Hines). The Spartans need to come ready to play.
I'm going to work under the assumption that UNCG has watched their film from Friday night and got some of their issues in order. Luckily, tonight's game is not against a team with superior size. HPU used their size to really build the lead against UNCG. The Rams shouldn't be able to do the same thing.
I also expect the Spartans to be able to dictate pace better in this game. If they can cut down on some of the silly turnovers, I think UNCG can prevail. Also, I think a large crowd should help with the energy.
Go Spartans !!!
Saturday, November 10, 2012
Panthers Turn Back Spartan Comeback Attempt
UNCG 73 - High Point 81
UNCG Athletics
High Point Athletics
Halftime: UNCG 33 - High Point 39
UNCG Stats
Leader Points: Trevis Simpson (18)
Leader Rebounds: Trevis Simpson (7)
Leader Assists: Drew Parker (4)
Team FG: 26-60 (43.3%)
Team 3 Pt: 8-20 (40.0%)
Team FT: 13-23 (56.5%)
Rebounds: 40
Turnovers: 17
High Point Stats
Leader Points: John Brown (28)
Leader Rebounds: John Brown (8)
Leader Assists: Jairus Simms (7)
Team FG: 30-68 (44.1%)
Team 3 Pt: 5-18 (27.8%)
Team FT: 16-22 (72.7%)
Rebounds: 41
Turnovers: 13
Thoughts:
Two things doomed the Spartans on Friday night. The first was the inside the paint. It was obvious the the Panthers were the much stronger team. John Brown and Allan Chaney absolutely controlled the game. High Point did UNCG a huge favor in the middle of the second half by completely going away from their inside duo. It allowed the Spartans to get back into the game, However, they closed the game out by going back inside to put the game away.
The second problem was turnovers. 11 first half turnovers really hurt UNCG and kept them from really making any progress in a half where they could have taken a lead. It was obvious that the Panthers were going to try to grind the pace down against UNCG and the Spartans responded by not being sure handed with the ball.
On the bright side, UNCG really showed some energy and poise in the face of a 19 point deficit to make a solid comeback. However, it was too little too late. It should be a good learning experience for a team that is trying to find some chemistry.
While the result is disappointing, it's way too early to draw any conclusions or look to throw in the towel. Go Spartans !!!
UNCG Athletics
High Point Athletics
Halftime: UNCG 33 - High Point 39
UNCG Stats
Leader Points: Trevis Simpson (18)
Leader Rebounds: Trevis Simpson (7)
Leader Assists: Drew Parker (4)
Team FG: 26-60 (43.3%)
Team 3 Pt: 8-20 (40.0%)
Team FT: 13-23 (56.5%)
Rebounds: 40
Turnovers: 17
High Point Stats
Leader Points: John Brown (28)
Leader Rebounds: John Brown (8)
Leader Assists: Jairus Simms (7)
Team FG: 30-68 (44.1%)
Team 3 Pt: 5-18 (27.8%)
Team FT: 16-22 (72.7%)
Rebounds: 41
Turnovers: 13
Thoughts:
Two things doomed the Spartans on Friday night. The first was the inside the paint. It was obvious the the Panthers were the much stronger team. John Brown and Allan Chaney absolutely controlled the game. High Point did UNCG a huge favor in the middle of the second half by completely going away from their inside duo. It allowed the Spartans to get back into the game, However, they closed the game out by going back inside to put the game away.
The second problem was turnovers. 11 first half turnovers really hurt UNCG and kept them from really making any progress in a half where they could have taken a lead. It was obvious that the Panthers were going to try to grind the pace down against UNCG and the Spartans responded by not being sure handed with the ball.
On the bright side, UNCG really showed some energy and poise in the face of a 19 point deficit to make a solid comeback. However, it was too little too late. It should be a good learning experience for a team that is trying to find some chemistry.
While the result is disappointing, it's way too early to draw any conclusions or look to throw in the towel. Go Spartans !!!
Friday, November 9, 2012
UNCG (0-0) @ High Point (0-0)
When: Friday, November 9 7 pm
Where: Mills Center (1,750)
TV: None/Big South TV (Internet)
High Point Athletics
Preseason Preview
UNCG Stats (2011-2012)
Last Game: Bluefield State (W 102-74) Recap
PPG: 67.9
RPG: 35.8
APG: 11.6
Leader Points: Trevis Simpson (18.3)
Leader Rebounds: David Williams (5.3)
Leader Assists: Drew Parker (2.6)
FG %: 40.3
3 Pt %: 33.8
FT %: 68.5
High Point Stats (2011-2012)
Last Game: Mars Hill (W 96-62) Recap
PPG: 71.1
RPG: 34.3
APG: 12.5
Leader Points: Corey Law (9.5)
Leader Rebounds: Corey Law (7.2)
Leader Assists: Jairus Simms (2.6)
FG %: 43.9
3 Pt %: 40.1
FT %: 68.5
Thoughts:
This is an interesting game to start the season. High Point has a very impressive front line and last season they were one of the best 3 point shooting teams in the country. Allan Chaney is one of the best stories in college basketball and you can't help but be happy for a guy who's been through all that he has and is still able to play.
Having said that, it should be interesting to see this new UNCG frantic pace against a D1 team. During the exhibition contest on Saturday, the Spartans started slow and turned the ball over a too much. When they settled down, the second half was an impressive showing. I expect to see a similar effort on tonight.
At this point, I've not seen enough to make any bold predictions. I'm just going to hope for the best.
Go Spartans !!!
Where: Mills Center (1,750)
TV: None/Big South TV (Internet)
High Point Athletics
Preseason Preview
UNCG Stats (2011-2012)
Last Game: Bluefield State (W 102-74) Recap
PPG: 67.9
RPG: 35.8
APG: 11.6
Leader Points: Trevis Simpson (18.3)
Leader Rebounds: David Williams (5.3)
Leader Assists: Drew Parker (2.6)
FG %: 40.3
3 Pt %: 33.8
FT %: 68.5
High Point Stats (2011-2012)
Last Game: Mars Hill (W 96-62) Recap
PPG: 71.1
RPG: 34.3
APG: 12.5
Leader Points: Corey Law (9.5)
Leader Rebounds: Corey Law (7.2)
Leader Assists: Jairus Simms (2.6)
FG %: 43.9
3 Pt %: 40.1
FT %: 68.5
Thoughts:
This is an interesting game to start the season. High Point has a very impressive front line and last season they were one of the best 3 point shooting teams in the country. Allan Chaney is one of the best stories in college basketball and you can't help but be happy for a guy who's been through all that he has and is still able to play.
Having said that, it should be interesting to see this new UNCG frantic pace against a D1 team. During the exhibition contest on Saturday, the Spartans started slow and turned the ball over a too much. When they settled down, the second half was an impressive showing. I expect to see a similar effort on tonight.
At this point, I've not seen enough to make any bold predictions. I'm just going to hope for the best.
Go Spartans !!!
Thursday, November 8, 2012
Preseason OOC Preview - High Point
High Point
Location: High Point, NC
Conference: Big South (RPI #27)
Last Year: 13-18
Finish: Tie 6th (out of 11)
Post Season: None
Last 10: 6-4
Coach: Scott Cherry (4th yr)
Top Returners:
Corey Law 9.5 pts, 7.4 rebs
Losses:
Shay Shine 15.5 pts, 5.4 rebs, 3.0 assists
Nick Barbour 20.4 pts, 2.5 rebs, 1.4 assists
Additions:
- Cliff Cornish PF (6'-8" 240 lbs)
- Lorenzo Cugini SF (6'-5" 200 lbs)
- Haiishen McIntyre SG (6'-2" 165 lbs)
- Adam Weary SG (6'-2" 195 lbs)
- Allan Chaney PF (6'9" 235 lbs) Transfer (Virginia Tech)
Location: High Point, NC
Conference: Big South (RPI #27)
Last Year: 13-18
Finish: Tie 6th (out of 11)
Post Season: None
Last 10: 6-4
Coach: Scott Cherry (4th yr)
Top Returners:
Corey Law 9.5 pts, 7.4 rebs
Losses:
Shay Shine 15.5 pts, 5.4 rebs, 3.0 assists
Nick Barbour 20.4 pts, 2.5 rebs, 1.4 assists
Additions:
- Cliff Cornish PF (6'-8" 240 lbs)
- Lorenzo Cugini SF (6'-5" 200 lbs)
- Haiishen McIntyre SG (6'-2" 165 lbs)
- Adam Weary SG (6'-2" 195 lbs)
- Allan Chaney PF (6'9" 235 lbs) Transfer (Virginia Tech)
Wednesday, November 7, 2012
Sunday, November 4, 2012
Spartans Fast Break Their Way to Exhibition Victory
UNCG 102 - Bluefield State 74
News& Record
UNCG Athletics
BSC Athletics
Halftime: UNCG 45 - Bluefield State 40
UNCG Stats
Leader Points: Trevis Simpson (21)
Leader Rebounds: Kelvin McNeil (11)
Leader Assists: Drew Parker (7)
Team FG: 35-68 (51.5%)
Team 3 Pt: 6-16 (37.5%)
Team FT: 26-37 (70.3%)
Rebounds: 50
Turnovers: 20
Bluefield State Stats
Leader Points: Daven Morris (16)
Leader Rebounds: Treon Claiborne (5)
leader Assists: Daven Morris (3)
Team FG: 20-62 (32.3%)
Team 3 Pt: 7-24 (29.2%)
Team FT: 27-39 (69.2%)
Rebounds: 37
Turnovers: 22
Thoughts
Even though the halftime score might not have indicated it, I thought UNCG controlled the game throughout. Sloppy turnovers and defensive lapses were the only things that kept the Big Blues even remotely competitive in this exhibition contest. The game was played in front of a packed and (at times) raucous crowd in Fleming Gym. UNCG shook off the nerves after the first 20 minutes and played very sound basketball. Everyone played and all made some nice contributions. It's tough to talk about everyone and their play. So, I'll just hit the high spots.
Kelvin McNeil was a very big surprise. I didn't really know a lot about him or what to expect of him coming to UNCG. However, from the appearance of this game, McNeil will see a big spot in the rotation and be heavily counted on to man the post position. I was thoroughly impressed with his play and am excited to see him play throughout the season.
David Williams created shear havoc on both ends of the court. It's very obvious that David's skill set is tailored perfectly to Wes Miller's style of play (both offense and defense). I'm not sure how many deflections he made on the defensive end, but it seemed like he had one per possession. His fast break dunk from the wing in the first half was the play of the night for me.
The main thing that jumped out at me was the pace that this Spartan team intends to play. It was on the verge of out of control ti was so fast, but it lead to a bunch of easy layups and dunks. Some of the turnovers were "cover your eyes" bad. But if G can create as many possessions as they did last night, the points will come in huge bunches.
Should be fun to watch going forward. Go Spartans !!!
News& Record
UNCG Athletics
BSC Athletics
Halftime: UNCG 45 - Bluefield State 40
UNCG Stats
Leader Points: Trevis Simpson (21)
Leader Rebounds: Kelvin McNeil (11)
Leader Assists: Drew Parker (7)
Team FG: 35-68 (51.5%)
Team 3 Pt: 6-16 (37.5%)
Team FT: 26-37 (70.3%)
Rebounds: 50
Turnovers: 20
Bluefield State Stats
Leader Points: Daven Morris (16)
Leader Rebounds: Treon Claiborne (5)
leader Assists: Daven Morris (3)
Team FG: 20-62 (32.3%)
Team 3 Pt: 7-24 (29.2%)
Team FT: 27-39 (69.2%)
Rebounds: 37
Turnovers: 22
Thoughts
Even though the halftime score might not have indicated it, I thought UNCG controlled the game throughout. Sloppy turnovers and defensive lapses were the only things that kept the Big Blues even remotely competitive in this exhibition contest. The game was played in front of a packed and (at times) raucous crowd in Fleming Gym. UNCG shook off the nerves after the first 20 minutes and played very sound basketball. Everyone played and all made some nice contributions. It's tough to talk about everyone and their play. So, I'll just hit the high spots.
Kelvin McNeil was a very big surprise. I didn't really know a lot about him or what to expect of him coming to UNCG. However, from the appearance of this game, McNeil will see a big spot in the rotation and be heavily counted on to man the post position. I was thoroughly impressed with his play and am excited to see him play throughout the season.
David Williams created shear havoc on both ends of the court. It's very obvious that David's skill set is tailored perfectly to Wes Miller's style of play (both offense and defense). I'm not sure how many deflections he made on the defensive end, but it seemed like he had one per possession. His fast break dunk from the wing in the first half was the play of the night for me.
The main thing that jumped out at me was the pace that this Spartan team intends to play. It was on the verge of out of control ti was so fast, but it lead to a bunch of easy layups and dunks. Some of the turnovers were "cover your eyes" bad. But if G can create as many possessions as they did last night, the points will come in huge bunches.
Should be fun to watch going forward. Go Spartans !!!
Friday, November 2, 2012
Thursday, November 1, 2012
Bluefield State (0-0) @ UNCG (0-0)
When: Saturday, Nov 3 6 pm
Where: Fleming Gym (2,320)
TV: None/Spartan All-Access
Bluefield State At a Glance ...
Location: Bluefield, West Virginia
Nickname: Big Blues
NCAA Division II - WV Intercollegiate Athletics Conference
2011-2012 record: 1-26
Coach: Jamaal Jackson (2nd season)
Preseason Prediction: 14 out of 15
Last Season Stats
FG %: 41.1
3 PT %: 32.5
FT%: 69.4
TO/game: 16.4
Block/game: 2.4
PPG: 74.7
RPG: 33.5
APG: 12.3
Last Season Leaders
Points: Chase Morgan (19.1)
Rebounds: Trevor Niles (9.5)
Assists: Chase Morgan (3.7)
Thoughts
Honestly I can't find very much about the Big Blues as to who is on their new roster. I really don't know what kind of size or skill they will bring with them to Fleming Gym. It looks like they didn't run a particularly slow pace last year, but averaged giving up almost 100 points a game (99.4).
As far as what I'm hoping for is to see the team get to showcase their abilities, work on specific sub patterns and escape with now injuries. AS long as those things happen, the score is really irrelevant.
Go Spartans !!!
Where: Fleming Gym (2,320)
TV: None/Spartan All-Access
Bluefield State At a Glance ...
Location: Bluefield, West Virginia
Nickname: Big Blues
NCAA Division II - WV Intercollegiate Athletics Conference
2011-2012 record: 1-26
Coach: Jamaal Jackson (2nd season)
Preseason Prediction: 14 out of 15
Last Season Stats
FG %: 41.1
3 PT %: 32.5
FT%: 69.4
TO/game: 16.4
Block/game: 2.4
PPG: 74.7
RPG: 33.5
APG: 12.3
Last Season Leaders
Points: Chase Morgan (19.1)
Rebounds: Trevor Niles (9.5)
Assists: Chase Morgan (3.7)
Thoughts
Honestly I can't find very much about the Big Blues as to who is on their new roster. I really don't know what kind of size or skill they will bring with them to Fleming Gym. It looks like they didn't run a particularly slow pace last year, but averaged giving up almost 100 points a game (99.4).
As far as what I'm hoping for is to see the team get to showcase their abilities, work on specific sub patterns and escape with now injuries. AS long as those things happen, the score is really irrelevant.
Go Spartans !!!
Wednesday, October 31, 2012
Tickets for UNCG-HPU on Sale November 1st
Tickets for the UNCG game at High Point University next Friday (Nov. 9) will go on sale at noon Thursday November 1 on their athletics website. I'm encouraging all UNCG fans to scoop up the tickets early and pack the Mills Center with nothing but blue and gold clad fans.
Go Spartans !!!
UPDATE: Tickets sold out in about 30 mintues. Apparently there really were only a few dozen that were available.
Go Spartans !!!
UPDATE: Tickets sold out in about 30 mintues. Apparently there really were only a few dozen that were available.
Sunday, October 28, 2012
Scanning the SoCon - UNCG Preview
You can find the whole thing (written by me) here.
QUESTIONS ABOUT UNCG ...
1. Can this team handle success?The Spartans hadn't won many games the previous 3 seasons and weren't really expected to win many last year. All of a sudden they catch fire and now there are expectations. They are picked to win the north and contend for a postseason appearance. How will this group handle last year's success and these new expectations.
2. Can this team beat mid-majors on the road?For the non-conference portion of the schedule to be considered a success, UNCG will have to win games at UNCW, High Point, James Madison and East Carolina. The schedule is set up to work out great for the team, but they will have to go into hostile gyms and get W's
3. Will not having a tested big man be a problem?With front court players like Aloysius Henry and Aaron Brackett gone, UNCG will have to depend on a combination of untested rookies, transfers and reserves to fill in the gaps. Players like (the above mentioned) Cole and Taylor Hoffer are going to have to play much greater roles for the Spartans to be successful. Any kind of foul trouble could spell disaster.
Thursday, October 25, 2012
Spartans Picked to Win the North
Both the conference coaches and media have tabbed UNCG to win the North Division of the Southern Conference. Also Trevis Simpson was picked to the preseason All-SoCon team.
Davidson was picked to win the South Division and Wildcat D'Mon Brooks was picked as Preseason Player of the Year.
Predicted Order of Finish - Coaches PollNorth DivisionTeam (1st Place Votes) Total1. UNCG (7) 592. Elon (3) 553. Western Carolina (2) 524. Appalachian State 365. Chattanooga 266. Samford 18
South DivisionTeam (1st Place Votes) Total1. Davidson (11) 65 2. College of Charleston (1) 543. Georgia Southern 484. Wofford 325. Furman 276. The Citadel 15
SoCon Men's Basketball Predicted Order of Finish - Media Poll
North DivisionTeam (1st Place Votes) Total1. UNCG (18) 1642. Western Carolina (9) 1443. Elon (3) 1194. Appalachian State 72 Samford 726. Chattanooga 59
South DivisionTeam (1st Place Votes) Total1. Davidson (28) 176 2. College of Charleston 1343. Georgia Southern (2) 1204. Wofford 1015. Furman 626. The Citadel 37
2012-13 Preseason All-Conference TeamAndrew Lawrence, College of CharlestonTrent Wiedeman, College of CharlestonMike Groselle, The CitadelDe'Mon Brooks, DavidsonNik Cochran, DavidsonJake Cohen, DavidsonJack Isenbarger, ElonEric Ferguson, Georgia SouthernTrevis Simpson, UNCGTrey Sumler, Western Carolina
2012-13 Preseason Player of the YearDe'Mon
Davidson was picked to win the South Division and Wildcat D'Mon Brooks was picked as Preseason Player of the Year.
Predicted Order of Finish - Coaches PollNorth DivisionTeam (1st Place Votes) Total1. UNCG (7) 592. Elon (3) 553. Western Carolina (2) 524. Appalachian State 365. Chattanooga 266. Samford 18
South DivisionTeam (1st Place Votes) Total1. Davidson (11) 65 2. College of Charleston (1) 543. Georgia Southern 484. Wofford 325. Furman 276. The Citadel 15
SoCon Men's Basketball Predicted Order of Finish - Media Poll
North DivisionTeam (1st Place Votes) Total1. UNCG (18) 1642. Western Carolina (9) 1443. Elon (3) 1194. Appalachian State 72 Samford 726. Chattanooga 59
South DivisionTeam (1st Place Votes) Total1. Davidson (28) 176 2. College of Charleston 1343. Georgia Southern (2) 1204. Wofford 1015. Furman 626. The Citadel 37
2012-13 Preseason All-Conference TeamAndrew Lawrence, College of CharlestonTrent Wiedeman, College of CharlestonMike Groselle, The CitadelDe'Mon Brooks, DavidsonNik Cochran, DavidsonJake Cohen, DavidsonJack Isenbarger, ElonEric Ferguson, Georgia SouthernTrevis Simpson, UNCGTrey Sumler, Western Carolina
2012-13 Preseason Player of the YearDe'Mon
Tuesday, October 23, 2012
Scanning the SoCon Preview - Extreme Addition
So I've always made posts speaking highly of my friend John's blog over at MocsMania. I participated with a few other bloggers last season in his weekly "Scanning the SoCon" segment. This year, he is going to take it to a much higher level by having a blogger/writer from all 12 schools participate. Starting today, there will be extended previews on each school. Be sure to check out the site every day for updates.
Spartans to Play Asheville in "Secret Scrimmage"
Jeff Goodman of CBS Sports has posted this year's confirmed list of "secret scrimmages" for this season. Each team is allowed by the NCAA to play either 2 closed door scrimmages, 2 open exhibition games against lower division teams a combination of both. UNCG will be playing on Saturday against UNC Asheville. I'm not sure if there will be much information to leak out of this scrimmage as it is closed door and there really isn't a set format for any of these games. Here is the entire list ...
Thursday, Oct. 25
William & Mary at Longwood
Hampton at VMI
Friday, Oct. 26
Robert Morris at Penn State
Presbyterian at Western Carolina
Saturday, Oct. 27
Clemson at Georgia
Georgia Tech vs. Tennesseein Chattanooga
VCU at Virginia
Wake Forest at Charlotte
TCU at Texas A&M
Davidson at Texas
Texas Tech at Texas Southern
Xavier at West Virginia
St. Mary's at Arizona State
Colorado at SMU
Fresno at USC
Montana State at Utah
Tulane at Mississippi
Princeton at La Salle
UMass at Drexel
Richmond at Elon
St. Louis at Indiana State
Kent State at St. Bonaventure
Temple vs. Niagara in Scranton, Pa.
Pepperdine at UC Santa Barbara
Long Beach State at San Diego
Oregon State
at Nevada
Loyola (Md.) at Delaware
Hartford at Hofstra
UNC Wilmington at Coastal Carolina
Drake at Northern Illinois
Boston University at Yale
UMBC vs. Maryand-Eastern Shore
Central Connecticut at Stony Brook
Montana State at Utah
Portland State vs. Seattle at Centralia CC
Sacramento State at UC Riverside
Boise State at Weber State
East Tennessee State at Furman
Tennessee State at Lipscomb
North Florida vs. FAU at Flagler
Charleston Southern at Mercer
Norfolk State at Campbell
USC Upstate at Gardner-Webb
UNC Greensboro at UNC Asheville
San Jose State at Pacific
UT San Antonio at UT Pan American
Ball State at Wright State
Lafayette at Columbia
Siena at Cornell
Fairfield at Quinnipiac
St. Francis (NY) at Iona
Manhattan at Wagner
Marist at Monmouth
Mount St. Mary's at Howard
Sacred Heart at St. Peter's
Holy Cross at Bryant
Middle Tennessee at Murray State
Bucknell at Youngstown
Belmont at Chattanooga
College of Charleston at East Carolina
Northwestern State at Louisiana-Lafayette
UMKC at Air Force
IPFW at Illinois-Chicago
Texas State at Texas A&M-Corpus Christi
UT-Arlington at Southeastern Louisiana in Shreveport
Albany at NJIT
Seattle vs. Portland State at Centralia CC
Georgia Southern vs. Jacksonville
Arkansas Little-Rock at Centenary
Sunday, Oct. 28
Maryland at George Washington
Miami at South Florida
North Carolina at Georgetown
Ohio at Virginia Tech
DePaul at Wisconsin
Marquette at Illinois State
Rutgers at Harvard
Nebraska at Iowa State
Creighton at Iowa
Mississippi State at UAB
LSU at Rice
South Dakota State at Wichita State
St. Francis (Pa) at Binghamton
Wofford at Liberty
Bowling Green atEastern Kentucky
Nicholls at Southern University
Samford at South Alabama
Tuesday, Oct. 30
NC State at East Carolina
NC Central at High Point
Thursday, Nov. 1
Stanford at St. Mary's
Thursday, Oct. 25
William & Mary at Longwood
Hampton at VMI
Friday, Oct. 26
Robert Morris at Penn State
Presbyterian at Western Carolina
Saturday, Oct. 27
Clemson at Georgia
Georgia Tech vs. Tennesseein Chattanooga
VCU at Virginia
Wake Forest at Charlotte
TCU at Texas A&M
Davidson at Texas
Texas Tech at Texas Southern
Xavier at West Virginia
St. Mary's at Arizona State
Colorado at SMU
Fresno at USC
Montana State at Utah
Tulane at Mississippi
Princeton at La Salle
UMass at Drexel
Richmond at Elon
St. Louis at Indiana State
Kent State at St. Bonaventure
Temple vs. Niagara in Scranton, Pa.
Pepperdine at UC Santa Barbara
Long Beach State at San Diego
Loyola (Md.) at Delaware
Hartford at Hofstra
UNC Wilmington at Coastal Carolina
Drake at Northern Illinois
Boston University at Yale
UMBC vs. Maryand-Eastern Shore
Central Connecticut at Stony Brook
Montana State at Utah
Portland State vs. Seattle at Centralia CC
Sacramento State at UC Riverside
Boise State at Weber State
East Tennessee State at Furman
Tennessee State at Lipscomb
North Florida vs. FAU at Flagler
Charleston Southern at Mercer
Norfolk State at Campbell
USC Upstate at Gardner-Webb
UNC Greensboro at UNC Asheville
San Jose State at Pacific
UT San Antonio at UT Pan American
Ball State at Wright State
Lafayette at Columbia
Siena at Cornell
Fairfield at Quinnipiac
St. Francis (NY) at Iona
Manhattan at Wagner
Marist at Monmouth
Mount St. Mary's at Howard
Sacred Heart at St. Peter's
Holy Cross at Bryant
Middle Tennessee at Murray State
Bucknell at Youngstown
Belmont at Chattanooga
College of Charleston at East Carolina
Northwestern State at Louisiana-Lafayette
UMKC at Air Force
IPFW at Illinois-Chicago
Texas State at Texas A&M-Corpus Christi
UT-Arlington at Southeastern Louisiana in Shreveport
Albany at NJIT
Seattle vs. Portland State at Centralia CC
Georgia Southern vs. Jacksonville
Arkansas Little-Rock at Centenary
Sunday, Oct. 28
Maryland at George Washington
Miami at South Florida
North Carolina at Georgetown
Ohio at Virginia Tech
DePaul at Wisconsin
Marquette at Illinois State
Rutgers at Harvard
Nebraska at Iowa State
Creighton at Iowa
Mississippi State at UAB
LSU at Rice
South Dakota State at Wichita State
St. Francis (Pa) at Binghamton
Wofford at Liberty
Bowling Green at
Nicholls at Southern University
Samford at South Alabama
Tuesday, Oct. 30
NC State at East Carolina
NC Central at High Point
Thursday, Nov. 1
Stanford at St. Mary's
Wednesday, October 17, 2012
Davidson to Remain in SoCon
Per the Charleston Post & Courier, Davidson has declined an offer to join the CAA and will remain a committed member of the Southern Conference. College of Charleston has meeting s scheduled over the next few days that should decide whether the Cougars stay or leave to join the CAA.
Monday, September 24, 2012
Maryland Standout Coming to Greensboro
According to Edgar Walker of MarylandHoops.net is reporting that 2013 G/F Tevon Saddler (6'-4" Baltimore, MD/St. Frances Academy) has became the fourth player this fall to commit to play for UNCG. Saddler picked the Spartans over St Joseph's, Delaware, Miami (FL), Southern Mississippi, Towson, and South Florida.
- Here is the recruiting and commitment story on MarylandHoops.net and the Baltimore Sun.
- Tevon is a 2 star rated player by ESPN Recruiting. He is ranked as the #8 player in the state of Maryland.
- Rivals lists Saddler as a 3 star recruit.
- Scouthoops also lists Saddler as a 3 star prospect.
- Recruiting analyst Reggie Rankin named Tevon the breakout star of last fall's "Under Armour Grind Session" in Chicago. Rankin had this analysis ..
Videos ...
Highlights
I-95 Challenge
Interview
Welcome to the Spartans, Tevon !!!
- Here is the recruiting and commitment story on MarylandHoops.net and the Baltimore Sun.
- Tevon is a 2 star rated player by ESPN Recruiting. He is ranked as the #8 player in the state of Maryland.
- Rivals lists Saddler as a 3 star recruit.
- Scouthoops also lists Saddler as a 3 star prospect.
- Recruiting analyst Reggie Rankin named Tevon the breakout star of last fall's "Under Armour Grind Session" in Chicago. Rankin had this analysis ..
Saddler is an athletic wing who has good length and competes on both ends of the floor. He excels on the break and from the wing off the bounce, where he can get to the rim and finish above it with a clear path. He is a slasher who will give a lazy defender nightmares. Saddler can rebound and initiate the break and is a very good and willing passer, but he must work to extend his range and make his jumper a consistent weapon to take his game to the next level. He plays with great urgency and is a capable multiple-position defender as well.- Here is an article from the Baltimore Sun from last fall that gives the reader a glimp into Saddler's recruitment as a junior in high school.
Videos ...
Highlights
I-95 Challenge
Interview
Welcome to the Spartans, Tevon !!!
Monday, September 17, 2012
Spartans Get Another NC Player
According to recruiting analyst Evan Daniels (and multiple other outlets now) 2013 PG Diante Baldwin (6'-0" High Point NC/High Point Christian Academy) has became the third in-state player to agree to play for UNCG next season. Baldwin picked UNCG over App State, Winthrop, UNC-Asheville and Wofford.
- Baldwin is a two star rated by player ESPN Recruiting and is ranked as the #24 player in the state.
- Basketball Elite listed Baldwin as the #6 PG in the state of NC. The website also posted this about Diante after a local summer tournament ...
-Now a couple of videos.
- Also, here is a link to another video from this summer's Peach Jam.
Welcome to the Spartans, Diante !!!
- Baldwin is a two star rated by player ESPN Recruiting and is ranked as the #24 player in the state.
- Basketball Elite listed Baldwin as the #6 PG in the state of NC. The website also posted this about Diante after a local summer tournament ...
Quick/strong guard who can get to the rim and finish with a variety of moves. Highlight reel maker with the ball on a string- quick crossover dribble move. Athletic. Good body control in the air.- The recruiting blog Phenom Hoop Report posted several evaluations of Baldwin this past fall.
Baldwin has “sneaky” athleticism and has exceptional ball handling and passing skills. He sees the floor really well. Baldwin does have good strength and athleticism and even had a few nice dunks in transition. Overall, Baldwin is a very active PG that has good fundamentals and basketball IQ.- Baldwin participated in Dave Telep's Carolina Challenge.
-Now a couple of videos.
- Also, here is a link to another video from this summer's Peach Jam.
Welcome to the Spartans, Diante !!!
Sunday, September 9, 2012
Talented Wing Chooses UNCG
According to ESPN recruiting analyst Dave Telep, 2013 SF Tyrone Outlaw (6'-5" Roxboro, NC/Person County HS) has committed to play next season at UNCG. Outlaw picked the Spartans over UNCW, Mississippi, Furman and Lehigh. He was also receiving attention from Virginia Tech and Murray State.
- Scout.com has Outlaw listed as a 3 star recruit.
- ESPN Recruiting has him listed as the #14 player in the state of NC.
- Basketball Elite ranks him as the #1 small forward in the state. They also call Tyrone ...
- When referring to his performance at the Carolina Challange, one recruiting blog had this to say ...
From the Southern Jamfest.
More highlights.
From the Carolina Challange
Dunk Highlights
A few from the Wolfpacker ...
- Scout.com has Outlaw listed as a 3 star recruit.
- ESPN Recruiting has him listed as the #14 player in the state of NC.
- Basketball Elite ranks him as the #1 small forward in the state. They also call Tyrone ...
... of the most dynamic forwards in the class of 2013- Outlaw participated in the prestigious Pangos All-American Camp in California this summer. He was also a participant at Dave Telep's Carolina Challange (alongwith fellow UNCG commit Clay Byrd).
- When referring to his performance at the Carolina Challange, one recruiting blog had this to say ...
Loved the way this kid played the game. He owns a strong 6’6” frame and competes on every possession. His strong takes to the basket stuck out to everyone in attendance and really describe his game. He didn’t back down to anyone and showed a lot of confidence out there. He also showed an ability to knock down the open outside jumper. Outlaw would be a solid get for any school simply due to his motor and strength.Now for the long list of highlight videos.
From the Southern Jamfest.
More highlights.
From the Carolina Challange
Dunk Highlights
A few from the Wolfpacker ...
From everything I've read and seen anywhere, this is a very big deal for UNCG. With the style of play that the Spartans will play in the coming seasons under Coach Miller, having a dominant and athletic wing is absolutely needed. I can'twait to see this guy in a UNCG uniform.
Welcome to the Spartans, Tyrone !!!
Thursday, August 30, 2012
NC Sharpshooter Picks Spartans
According to ESPN recruiting, 2013 SG Clay Byrd (6'-1" - Connelly Springs, NC/East Burke HS) has committed to play basketball at UNCG next season. He picked UNCG over App State, Mercer and Yale.
- ESPN recruiting rated Clay as the #19 player in the state of NC.
- BasketballElite.com ranked him the 16th best guard in NC. During one scouting session this summer they wrote this evaluation ...
- Clay played in ESPN recruiting analyst Dave Telep's Carolina Challenge this past spring.
Now let's move on to the videos ...
From Dave Telep's Carolina Challenge
From East Burke HS
An older video
Two videos from The Wolfpacker
- ESPN recruiting rated Clay as the #19 player in the state of NC.
- BasketballElite.com ranked him the 16th best guard in NC. During one scouting session this summer they wrote this evaluation ...
Impressed with his defense in one on one drills- hustles. Good lefty shooter. Boxes out and rebounds- According to this article, Byrd averaged an astounding 25.0 points per game as a junior in high school and was named Burke County player of the year by the Morganton News & Herald.
- Clay played in ESPN recruiting analyst Dave Telep's Carolina Challenge this past spring.
Now let's move on to the videos ...
From Dave Telep's Carolina Challenge
From East Burke HS
An older video
Two videos from The Wolfpacker
Clay plays AAU basketball with Team United. You can see some of their highlights from this year's Peach Jam here.
Welcome to the Spartans, Clay !!!
Tuesday, August 28, 2012
Spartans Announce the Addition of RJ White
UNCG Athletics has officially announced that Randy (RJ) White has joined the UNCG basketball team as a freshman for the 2012-2013 season.
He is listed on the UNCG roster as 6'-8" and 280 lbs.
If you are looking for some more highlights of RJ playing with his AAU team (Dallas Mustangs) last season, you can find some here.
He was a two-time 4A District 9 Offensive Player of the Year award winner and a two-time All-District honoree. He averaged 16.7 points and 9.4 rebounds per game as a senior while leading his team to the second round of the state tournament.
He is listed on the UNCG roster as 6'-8" and 280 lbs.
If you are looking for some more highlights of RJ playing with his AAU team (Dallas Mustangs) last season, you can find some here.
Monday, August 20, 2012
Randy White Joins Spartans
I'm not sure how I missed this back in July, but CBS Sport's Jeff Borzello reported that UNCG received a commitment from Texas PF Randy White (6'-8"). UNCG athletics hasn't reported it yet. So, I'm a little in the dark if this is actually true. In the meantime, here is some of the info that I could find on Randy.
- Rivals Profile.
- YouTube video from his U15 team (so this is old).
I'll post more info when I find it or if there's anything more to this story.
- Rivals Profile.
- YouTube video from his U15 team (so this is old).
I'll post more info when I find it or if there's anything more to this story.
Friday, August 10, 2012
OOC Opponents RPI
Courtesy of RealTimeRPI ...
Bluefield State (non-D1), High Point (268), WSSU (non-D1), East Carolina (164), Virginia Tech (115), Rutgers (163), NC A&T (282), James Madison(261), UNCW (213), Wake Forest (182), NC State (50), Lees-McRae (non-D1)
Bluefield State (non-D1), High Point (268), WSSU (non-D1), East Carolina (164), Virginia Tech (115), Rutgers (163), NC A&T (282), James Madison(261), UNCW (213), Wake Forest (182), NC State (50), Lees-McRae (non-D1)
UNCG Releases 2012-2013 Schedule
11/3 Bluefield State* (Exh.)
11/9 @ High Point
11/12 Winston-Salem State
11/16 @ East Carolina
11/19 Virginia Tech
11/25 Rutgers
11/28 NC A&T
12/1 Citadel
12/16 @ James Madison
12/19 @ UNC Wilmington
12/22 Wake Forest
12/31 @ NC State
1/5 @ Davidson
1/9 Lees-McRae
1/12 @ Western Carolina
1/14 @ App State
1/16 Wofford
1/20 Furman
1/24 Chattanooga
1/26 Samford
1/31 Elon
2/2 @ Charleston
2/7 @ Furman
2/9 @ Wofford
2/14 Western Carolina
2/17 App State
2/21 @ Chattanooga
2/23 @ Samford
2/28 Ga Southern
3/2 @ Elon
3/8 - 3/11 SoCon Tournament^
* Fleming Gym
^ Asheville, NC
11/9 @ High Point
11/12 Winston-Salem State
11/16 @ East Carolina
11/19 Virginia Tech
11/25 Rutgers
11/28 NC A&T
12/1 Citadel
12/16 @ James Madison
12/19 @ UNC Wilmington
12/22 Wake Forest
12/31 @ NC State
1/5 @ Davidson
1/9 Lees-McRae
1/12 @ Western Carolina
1/14 @ App State
1/16 Wofford
1/20 Furman
1/24 Chattanooga
1/26 Samford
1/31 Elon
2/2 @ Charleston
2/7 @ Furman
2/9 @ Wofford
2/14 Western Carolina
2/17 App State
2/21 @ Chattanooga
2/23 @ Samford
2/28 Ga Southern
3/2 @ Elon
3/8 - 3/11 SoCon Tournament^
* Fleming Gym
^ Asheville, NC
Thursday, August 9, 2012
Odom Named Basketball Advisor
The Southern Conference has named former Wake Forest and South Carolina coach Dave Odom to serve as the league's special advisor for basketball. You might remember that this position was formed during the league meetings back in May as part of the Davidson and Charleston concessions in the hopes of keeping them in the SoCon.
He will be charged with improving non-league scheduling, participation in early-season exempt tournaments, the operation of the conference tournament and member institution recruiting efforts.Odom is from Greensboro and is currently the chairman of the EA SPORTS Maui Invitational. I think it's not surprising the UNCG appeared in the tournament last season and Elon is playing in it this year. Hopefully, he can really help with the scheduling throughout the league.
That person — now, Odom — would work to enhance the league’s visibility and power ratings in basketball, commissioner John Iamarino said, with the ultimate goal of placing more teams in the NCAA Tournament.
Wednesday, August 1, 2012
Mocs Release Schedule
Chattanooga released their 2012-2013 Men's basketball schedule today.
UTC returns home to host Appalachian State (Jan. 17) and Western Carolina (Jan. 19) before a trio on the road. Trips to Elon (Jan. 24), UNCG (Jan. 26) and Georgia Southern (Feb. 2) lead into a strong home stretch.
The regular season concludes with four key SoCon North matchups. The Mocs host UNCG (Feb. 21) and Elon (Feb. 23) before closing the year at Western Carolina (Feb. 28) and Appalachian State (Mar. 2).
Tuesday, July 24, 2012
Spartans to Appear in Raleigh
Per NC State's athletics website, UNCG will be making a stop at the PNC Arena in the 2012-2013 season.
Joining the Stanford Cardinal on NC State's list of non-conference opponents slated to come to Raleigh as part of the PNC Arena season-ticket package are 2012 NCAA Tournament participants Norfolk State, St. Bonaventure and UNC-Asheville. The Pack's other non-conference opponents include Miami (Ohio), UNC-Greensboro and Western Michigan.I had originally heard that this game was going to be in Greensboro, but I guess we'll have to wait a year for the return trip by the Wolfpack.
Charleston to Explore Move Further
According to the Charleston Post and Courier, the College of Charleston Board of Trustees discussed a possible move from the Southern Conference to the CAA at their meeting today. However, there was no definite decision.
The athletics committee will study the issue and make a recommendation to the full board, which is next scheduled to meet on Aug. 3.I've been following all of this through my Twitter account. Check it out there if you want to read more.
Cougars athletic director Joe Hull said there is no timeline or deadline from the CAA for College of Charleston to make a decision. He said the uncertain future of the Southern Conference and the potential for missed class time and increased travel costs in the CAA are two of many issues College of Charleston must consider.
Life 101
Coach Wes Miller has made quite a few three point shots. He gives some pointers in this UNCG Alumni Magazine article.
Sunday, July 22, 2012
Good Call
From Spartanburg Herald-Journal sports writer Todd Shanesy ...
I don't know how the Southern Conference feels, but if I had a girlfriend who was flirting so much with another guy, she could hit the road.
— Todd Shanesy (@TerrierTracker) July 21, 2012
Friday, July 20, 2012
Spartan Club Giving Sets a Record
Per UNCG Athletics website ...
The UNCG Spartan Club, the official fundraising organization for UNCG Athletics, surpassed its annual scholarship fund goal of $300,000 for the 2012 fiscal year and set a new all-time record for the scholarship fund. The Spartan Club posted an annual scholarship fund total of $307,479, a 20.7% increase over last year’s total, increasing their efforts by over $50,000 and surpassing the previous high that was set in 1987.
Since UNCG is not part of a power 6 conference. They do not have huge streams of television and media rights revenue coming in from ESPN and other places. So, hopefully the giving from individual donors will continue.
Also, I'd like to remind everyone that UNCG came out with a new logo for it's NC license plate. There needs to be 300 applications at the NC DMV before they will go into production. Most of the proceeds go back to the university. So, that's another way to give back to UNCG. You can fill out the application here.
Thursday, July 19, 2012
UNCG Guard on Sports Network's List
Rising junior guard Trevis Simpson was named honorable mention on the Sports Network's list of the top shooting guards in the country. The list also included names such as CJ McCollum (Lehigh), Jamaal Franklin (San Diego St), Michael Snaer (Florida St) and Seth Curry (Duke).
This post gives me a reason top link to this awesome Simpson highlight reel on YouTube.
This post gives me a reason top link to this awesome Simpson highlight reel on YouTube.
Wednesday, July 18, 2012
Simpson Shows Off Moves at the Pro Am
Evidently, Trevis Simpson put on a show last night at NC Pro Am at NC Central. David Morrison of the Greensboro News & Record was there and posted this entry to his blog.
But, the real show is this YouTube video of Simpson showing off his high flying moves. Check out his compilation at the end.
But, the real show is this YouTube video of Simpson showing off his high flying moves. Check out his compilation at the end.
Redundant SoCon/CAA Post
Nothing really new to read here in this Baltimore Sun article. Just figured I'd link to show the opinion of Towson AD Mike Waddell.
Waddell said that he doesn't expect anything to happen "until late summer or early fall", adding that if this was a stew, "it would be cooked in a Crock-Pot, not a microwave."
Tuesday, July 17, 2012
Miller Interview with WRAL
So, I'll openly admit that I've gotten way too wrapped up int his conference switching discussion lately. As a result, I completely whiffed on a great interview that Coach Miller did with WRAL in the triangle. There were a lot of great quotes in there, but I'll just pick out my favorite for this post.
"Everybody wants to say, 'You did a great job coaching,' and I just kind of laugh. I say, they did a great job playing.'," said Miller.
Monday, July 16, 2012
Ga Southern Committed to SoCon
In an article posted by the Statesboro (GA) Herald, Georgia Southern AD Sam Baker stated that while his school had talked to the Sun Belt Conference, they were commited to staying in Southern Conference.
"Oh, no. We’re in the Southern Conference," Baker said. "If we’re FCS, this is the conference we’re going to be in."However, he did confirm that Davidson and College of Charleston had indeed been invited to join the CAA.
"There’s been an invitation from the Colonial to Davidson and Charleston," Baker said. We’ve not heard, as conference members, where that may lead. It would be hard to tell. I think they both benefit by being in our conference."
Friday, July 13, 2012
Scheduling Post #3
This is the last post about this for the day. Here's a Twitter post from Brian Mull. He's a writer for the Wilmington Star-News that covers UNCW and the CAA.
I'll post a date for that as soon as it becomes available.#UNCW AD Jimmy Bass said he's awaiting a contract from UNC-Greensboro. So, pencil in Wes Miller's club for a visit to Trask. #caahoops
— Brian Mull (@BGMull) July 11, 2012
In-State School Lees-McRae Coming to Coliseum
I figure I'll stick with schedule updates today. So according to their athletics website, Lees-McRae will be making a stop at the Greensboro Coliseum on January 9th. The Bobcats are a NCAA Division II school from Banner Elk, NC. Last season they finished 9-17 (including a 90-61 loss to neighbor App State). The Mountaneers appear on their schedule this season as well.
VA Tech Coming to Greensboro This Season
Just so I can take a break from all of this conference realignment mess for a bit, here's a UNCG basketball related blurb from the Washington Post. Virginia Tech will be making an appearance at the Greensboro Coliseum this coming season.
I will post again when a date becomes available.In addition, the Hokies announced portions of their nonconference schedule, although much of it had already been reported. Virginia Tech will play home games against Iowa, Oklahoma State, Rhode Island and VMI. It will play road games at West Virginia and UNC Greensboro, because the 2013 ACC tournament will be held at the Greensboro Coliseum.
Thursday, July 12, 2012
CAA Commissioner Expects Expansion Soon
According to the Chicago Tribune, Colonial Athletics Association commissioner Tom Yeagear is expecting this CAA expansion situation to be over with in the next few weeks.
I'll admit that I'm over this conference movement crap and ready for it to be over.
"We're making progress," Yeager said. "But at this time of year, you're working around other people's schedules, with things like graduations and vacations. It slows some things down, but everyone still understands how important it is."
"We've told people all along that we're not trying to establish any artificial deadlines," Yeager said. "You want to have everybody ask and answer all the questions. We're all agreed that at the end of this thing, we want everyone to make a decision that they're comfortable with and put it behind them and move forward."
I'll admit that I'm over this conference movement crap and ready for it to be over.
Friday, July 6, 2012
SoCon Didn't Issue "Deadline"
On Tuesday, the SoCon released a statement saying it did not give a deadline to some of it's member school that are being courted by the CAA.
Where do I think this whole "deadline" idea got started? Message boards. I read a ton of message boards and have a ton of very quiet sources who let me know about stuff well in advance. However, I try to wait until an actual news group or journalist published something. I always try to link to the source and quote it as much as possible as well. That way you can go read the story for yourself. If I've misrepresented what was written, you guys can leave a comment telling me as much. In this case it seems like a tweet got changed by a message board and picked up by another paper and then ... BOOM ... it was on. I still love Twitter, though.
As for an actual SoCon-CAA timeline, it seems UNCW Chancellor Gary Miller (who is chairman of CAA's Council of Presidents) expects another 6 months before things begin to really take shape.
“Additionally, despite numerous published reports citing a July 4th deadline, the conference office has not issued any ultimatums to its member schools regarding conference affiliation.”A Burlington Times-News article sums it up this way ...
While there certainly never was any sort of established deadline, the Southern Conference had hoped its member schools in play with the Colonial Athletic Association would reach their decisions by Wednesday.I personally just love how the writer of this entry on the blog App State Nation (great site by the way) put it ...
How did the rumor get started? Well basically, the Burlington Times reported it citing unnamed sources. The Charleston Post & Courier cited the Burlington Times. The Virginia Gazette cited the Charleston Post & Courier. Then the Winston-Salem Journal cited the Virginia Gazette.
Where do I think this whole "deadline" idea got started? Message boards. I read a ton of message boards and have a ton of very quiet sources who let me know about stuff well in advance. However, I try to wait until an actual news group or journalist published something. I always try to link to the source and quote it as much as possible as well. That way you can go read the story for yourself. If I've misrepresented what was written, you guys can leave a comment telling me as much. In this case it seems like a tweet got changed by a message board and picked up by another paper and then ... BOOM ... it was on. I still love Twitter, though.
As for an actual SoCon-CAA timeline, it seems UNCW Chancellor Gary Miller (who is chairman of CAA's Council of Presidents) expects another 6 months before things begin to really take shape.
"Christmas is a realistic goal," he said of a time frame for announcing new members.Apparently, this saga will go on for quite a while.
"It's a difficult question to answer, because the schools we want to talk to have time constraints, they're in conferences already, they have exit strategies. We would like to see some things happen quickly – and definitely by next year."
Sunday, July 1, 2012
Players Head to NC Pro Am
Over the last two years, UNCG players have migrated from playing in the Triad Pro Am in Winston-Salem to the very well known NC Pro Am in Durham at NC Central. This year, 9 Spartan players will appear on the star studded rosters that feature players from teh Triangle's ACC squad as well as NBA stars. While reading the rosters, remember that they will be slightly different every night and that crowds for this event have just been huge. Get there early.
The rosters can be found here and schedule here.
The rosters can be found here and schedule here.
Thursday, June 28, 2012
July 4th Deadline for 3 SoCon Schools
According to the Charleston Post & Courier, the Southern Conference has given College of Charleston, Davidson and App State until July 4th to make their intentions known about leaving and joining the CAA. It's been reported by the Burlington Times-News that those three schools are the only ones that have been formally contacted. However, there were rumors last week that Elon and Furman had also been approached.
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