Showing posts with label Greensboro Coliseum. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Greensboro Coliseum. Show all posts
Sunday, February 2, 2014
Friday, January 31, 2014
Potts Ignites UNCG to Huge Second Half
UNCG 66 - App State 61
UNCG Athletics
ASU Athletics
Halftime: UNCG 21 - App State 34
UNCG Stats
Leader Points: Potts (26)
Leader Rebounds: Cain (15)
Leader Assists: Saddler (8)
Team FG: 24-58 (41.4%)
Team 3 Pt: 9-20 (45.0%)
Team FT: 9-17 (52.9%)
Rebounds: 40
Turnovers: 10
App State Stats
Leader Points: Spagnolo (15)
Leader Rebounds: Spagnolo (17)
Leader Assists: Neal (7)
Team FG: 23-67 (34.3%)
Team 3 Pt: 7-24 (29.2%)
Team FT: 8-12 (66.7%)
Rebounds: 45
Turnovers: 9
Thoughts
A funny thing happen on the way to UNCG losing their fourth game in a row. Jordan Potts happened. In a big way. At the 14 minute mark of the second half, UNCG was down 44-32. Potts made a 3 to pull UNCG within 9. Over then next 6 minutes he made 5 more. His last one gave UNCG it's first lead since it was 2-0 in the first minute of play. After that it was a scramble to the finish that saw the Spartans hold off App State and break its losing streak.
While the second half story was Potts, the first half was all about offense (or the lack of it). The Spartans shot 25.0% and App State wasn't a ton better at 37.5%. Both teams had a ton of good looks. The ball just wouldn't go down. At one point it felt like the first team to score 40 should be declared the winner. The second half turned into a major track meet though. Both teams were gassed by the end.
As much as this story is about Potts and his offensive display, it should be even more about his defense. His on-ball defense really sparked the entire team. UNCG showed very little life in teh first half. By the second, everyone was throwing themselves on the floor to get to every ball. It was fun to see that switch get flipped. Congrats to the team and the coaches for making it happen.
Now on to the back half of this home stand that UNCG needs to sweep. Another win would put some distance between itself and another team vying for the bye spot. So, it's another big game. We'll get to that one in the preview. Go Spartans !!!
UNCG Athletics
ASU Athletics
Halftime: UNCG 21 - App State 34
UNCG Stats
Leader Points: Potts (26)
Leader Rebounds: Cain (15)
Leader Assists: Saddler (8)
Team FG: 24-58 (41.4%)
Team 3 Pt: 9-20 (45.0%)
Team FT: 9-17 (52.9%)
Rebounds: 40
Turnovers: 10
App State Stats
Leader Points: Spagnolo (15)
Leader Rebounds: Spagnolo (17)
Leader Assists: Neal (7)
Team FG: 23-67 (34.3%)
Team 3 Pt: 7-24 (29.2%)
Team FT: 8-12 (66.7%)
Rebounds: 45
Turnovers: 9
Thoughts
A funny thing happen on the way to UNCG losing their fourth game in a row. Jordan Potts happened. In a big way. At the 14 minute mark of the second half, UNCG was down 44-32. Potts made a 3 to pull UNCG within 9. Over then next 6 minutes he made 5 more. His last one gave UNCG it's first lead since it was 2-0 in the first minute of play. After that it was a scramble to the finish that saw the Spartans hold off App State and break its losing streak.
While the second half story was Potts, the first half was all about offense (or the lack of it). The Spartans shot 25.0% and App State wasn't a ton better at 37.5%. Both teams had a ton of good looks. The ball just wouldn't go down. At one point it felt like the first team to score 40 should be declared the winner. The second half turned into a major track meet though. Both teams were gassed by the end.
As much as this story is about Potts and his offensive display, it should be even more about his defense. His on-ball defense really sparked the entire team. UNCG showed very little life in teh first half. By the second, everyone was throwing themselves on the floor to get to every ball. It was fun to see that switch get flipped. Congrats to the team and the coaches for making it happen.
Now on to the back half of this home stand that UNCG needs to sweep. Another win would put some distance between itself and another team vying for the bye spot. So, it's another big game. We'll get to that one in the preview. Go Spartans !!!
Thursday, January 30, 2014
App State (6-13) @ UNCG (10-12)
When: Thursday, January 30 7:00 pm
Where: Greensboro Coliseum (7,617)^
TV: Spartan All-Access
^ - Greensboro Coliseum is undergoing renovations and will not be using the upper deck for any seating at UNCG games this season. I do not have the official seat totals with these changes.
App State Athletics
Last Game: 1/9/14 UNCG 66 @ App State 60 Recap
UNCG Stats
Last Game: @ Chattanooga (L 67-77) Recap
PPG: 71.7
RPG: 37.0
APG: 12.9
Leader Points: Kyle Cain (16.0)
Leader Rebounds: Kyle Cain (8.9)
Leader Assists: Tevon Saddler (3.3)
FG %: 44.6
3 Pt %: 35.1
FT %: 68.3
App State Stats
Last Game: @ Citadel (W 80-67) Recap
PPG: 71.5
RPG: 36.7
APG: 11.7
Leader Points: Tab Hamilton* (13.6)
Leader Rebounds: Michael Obacha (8.9)
Leader Assists: Mike Neal (3.2)
FG %: 42.3
3 Pt %: 30.9
FT %: 66.3
* Jay Canty averages 17.6 points in 5 games. Canty is currently recovering from a wrist injury and is expected to be out 4-6 weeks.
Thoughts
Last week at this time, UNCG was sitting pretty for a Southern Conference Tournament bye. The Spartans were 3-2 and had won the games it was supposed to and only needed to continue that streak in order to get that top 5 spot. Well, this week is a different story. G went 0-2 on the western swing. At the same time, Wofford, App State and Samford are making big pushes up the standings ladder. Tonight's game is very critical. It's a home game against a local team that is right in the hunt with UNCG for that 5th spot. The Mountaineers are only .5 games behind UNCG (in the win column). It's very much a "must win".
Tonight's game features 2 of the best rebounders in the SoCon in Kyle Cain and Michael Obacha. Obacha is gathering 4 offensive rebounds per game. That's huge. UNCG will need to do a good job of limiting the Apps to just one shot attempt per trip. Since the last contest in Boone, Jay Canty has went down with an injured wrist. He will be out an extended period of time. However, after the injury, ASU won 2 games last week. So while it's a big loss for App, they seem to be rallying and playing better.
As for UNCG, the recent 3 game swoon can be attributed to many things. The glaring problem has been foul difficulty. Spartan big men just haven't been able to stay on the court very long. Cain, Locke and White have all had to battle through fouls. Also, the attitudes haven't been very good. It seems like a single marginal call has been enough to cause UNCG to go "in the tank" for long stretches. Th Spartans need to do a better job of playing the next play and not dwelling on the previous one.
The game in January was one that UNCG pretty much controlled throughout. The Spartans turned the ball over 21 times and really helped keep the Mountaineers in the ballgame (which they actually led at halftime). UNCG needs to be solid with the ball and do a good job of playing defense without fouling. Also, it would be nice to see the interior player and guards play in sync. If that happens I think UNCG can get itself back on track. Go Spartans !!!
Where: Greensboro Coliseum (7,617)^
TV: Spartan All-Access
^ - Greensboro Coliseum is undergoing renovations and will not be using the upper deck for any seating at UNCG games this season. I do not have the official seat totals with these changes.
App State Athletics
Last Game: 1/9/14 UNCG 66 @ App State 60 Recap
UNCG Stats
Last Game: @ Chattanooga (L 67-77) Recap
PPG: 71.7
RPG: 37.0
APG: 12.9
Leader Points: Kyle Cain (16.0)
Leader Rebounds: Kyle Cain (8.9)
Leader Assists: Tevon Saddler (3.3)
FG %: 44.6
3 Pt %: 35.1
FT %: 68.3
App State Stats
Last Game: @ Citadel (W 80-67) Recap
PPG: 71.5
RPG: 36.7
APG: 11.7
Leader Points: Tab Hamilton* (13.6)
Leader Rebounds: Michael Obacha (8.9)
Leader Assists: Mike Neal (3.2)
FG %: 42.3
3 Pt %: 30.9
FT %: 66.3
* Jay Canty averages 17.6 points in 5 games. Canty is currently recovering from a wrist injury and is expected to be out 4-6 weeks.
Thoughts
Last week at this time, UNCG was sitting pretty for a Southern Conference Tournament bye. The Spartans were 3-2 and had won the games it was supposed to and only needed to continue that streak in order to get that top 5 spot. Well, this week is a different story. G went 0-2 on the western swing. At the same time, Wofford, App State and Samford are making big pushes up the standings ladder. Tonight's game is very critical. It's a home game against a local team that is right in the hunt with UNCG for that 5th spot. The Mountaineers are only .5 games behind UNCG (in the win column). It's very much a "must win".
Tonight's game features 2 of the best rebounders in the SoCon in Kyle Cain and Michael Obacha. Obacha is gathering 4 offensive rebounds per game. That's huge. UNCG will need to do a good job of limiting the Apps to just one shot attempt per trip. Since the last contest in Boone, Jay Canty has went down with an injured wrist. He will be out an extended period of time. However, after the injury, ASU won 2 games last week. So while it's a big loss for App, they seem to be rallying and playing better.
As for UNCG, the recent 3 game swoon can be attributed to many things. The glaring problem has been foul difficulty. Spartan big men just haven't been able to stay on the court very long. Cain, Locke and White have all had to battle through fouls. Also, the attitudes haven't been very good. It seems like a single marginal call has been enough to cause UNCG to go "in the tank" for long stretches. Th Spartans need to do a better job of playing the next play and not dwelling on the previous one.
The game in January was one that UNCG pretty much controlled throughout. The Spartans turned the ball over 21 times and really helped keep the Mountaineers in the ballgame (which they actually led at halftime). UNCG needs to be solid with the ball and do a good job of playing defense without fouling. Also, it would be nice to see the interior player and guards play in sync. If that happens I think UNCG can get itself back on track. Go Spartans !!!
Monday, January 20, 2014
Sparans Foul Up Upset Bid
UNCG 82 - Davidson 93
UNCG Athletics
Davidson Athletics
Halftime: UNCG 32 - Davidson 40
UNCG Stats
Leader Points: Paulos (27)
Leader Rebounds: Paulos (8)
Leader Assists: Saddler (7)
Team FG: 28-68 (41.2%)
Team 3 Pt: 11-22 (50.0%)
Team FT: 15-21 (71.4%)
Rebounds: 31
Turnovers: 14
Davidson Stats
Leader Points: Brooks (24)
Leader Rebounds: Brooks (9)
Leader Assists: Droney (4)
Team FG: 25-52 (48.1%)
Team 3 Pt: 8-16 (50.0%)
Team FT: 35-39 (89.7%)
Rebounds: 34
Turnovers: 18
Thoughts
Here's a fun recipe ... you take a team that's young and has had problems defending. Next add in a team that is great with ball movement and patience. Finally, throw in some Saturday SoCon refs and you've got the perfect recipe for a ton of fouls. That's exactly what happened on Saturday night at the Greensboro Coliseum. The zebras called a combined 51 fouls and sent the teams to the line 60 times. Unfortunately for UNCG, the Spartans tallied 31 of the 51 fouls and Davidson shot an amazing 35-38 form the free throw line. That's the main story of the game. UNCG was unable to guard Wildcat players without fouling.
It overshadowed what wa an amazing night for Nicholas Paulos. Paulos was 9-9 from behind the arc and probably could have flirted with the NCAA record (11-11) for consecutive made 3's if he could have got up a few more shots. Unfortunately, Paulos was only able to keep UNCG within sight of Davidson. The Spartans cut what had been a double digit lead most of the second half, down to 6 with just under a minute remaining. However, it was too little too late.
Southern Conference Player of the Year candidate De'Mon Brooks had a very good night (24 points and 9 rebounds) while UNCG's front court duo of Kyle Cain and Kayel Locke spent very little time on the court together due to foul issues. Several of Locke's foul calls came from charges where he became frustrated and just barrelled down the lane. Davidson's defense quickly realized his strategy and just got in position to take the contact and draw the foul calls. UNCG also hurt themselves with 2 technical fouls. One was for Kylke Cain slapping the backboard after a dunk and one came after Wes Miller had some choice words for the officials.
All-in-all it was just another game where UNCG showed it wasn't quite ready to compete with the very top of the SoCon. The Spartasn right now look to be maybe to 4th or 5th best team in the league. There is clearly a higher tier with Elon, Davidson, Chattanooga and Western Carolina. IN order to keep pace with that group and put themselves into position for a tournament bye, the Spartans will need to continue to win the games agaisnt teams below themselves in the pecking order. That will have to happen on Thurday at Samford. Go Spartans !!!
UNCG Athletics
Davidson Athletics
Halftime: UNCG 32 - Davidson 40
UNCG Stats
Leader Points: Paulos (27)
Leader Rebounds: Paulos (8)
Leader Assists: Saddler (7)
Team FG: 28-68 (41.2%)
Team 3 Pt: 11-22 (50.0%)
Team FT: 15-21 (71.4%)
Rebounds: 31
Turnovers: 14
Davidson Stats
Leader Points: Brooks (24)
Leader Rebounds: Brooks (9)
Leader Assists: Droney (4)
Team FG: 25-52 (48.1%)
Team 3 Pt: 8-16 (50.0%)
Team FT: 35-39 (89.7%)
Rebounds: 34
Turnovers: 18
Thoughts
Here's a fun recipe ... you take a team that's young and has had problems defending. Next add in a team that is great with ball movement and patience. Finally, throw in some Saturday SoCon refs and you've got the perfect recipe for a ton of fouls. That's exactly what happened on Saturday night at the Greensboro Coliseum. The zebras called a combined 51 fouls and sent the teams to the line 60 times. Unfortunately for UNCG, the Spartans tallied 31 of the 51 fouls and Davidson shot an amazing 35-38 form the free throw line. That's the main story of the game. UNCG was unable to guard Wildcat players without fouling.
It overshadowed what wa an amazing night for Nicholas Paulos. Paulos was 9-9 from behind the arc and probably could have flirted with the NCAA record (11-11) for consecutive made 3's if he could have got up a few more shots. Unfortunately, Paulos was only able to keep UNCG within sight of Davidson. The Spartans cut what had been a double digit lead most of the second half, down to 6 with just under a minute remaining. However, it was too little too late.
Southern Conference Player of the Year candidate De'Mon Brooks had a very good night (24 points and 9 rebounds) while UNCG's front court duo of Kyle Cain and Kayel Locke spent very little time on the court together due to foul issues. Several of Locke's foul calls came from charges where he became frustrated and just barrelled down the lane. Davidson's defense quickly realized his strategy and just got in position to take the contact and draw the foul calls. UNCG also hurt themselves with 2 technical fouls. One was for Kylke Cain slapping the backboard after a dunk and one came after Wes Miller had some choice words for the officials.
All-in-all it was just another game where UNCG showed it wasn't quite ready to compete with the very top of the SoCon. The Spartasn right now look to be maybe to 4th or 5th best team in the league. There is clearly a higher tier with Elon, Davidson, Chattanooga and Western Carolina. IN order to keep pace with that group and put themselves into position for a tournament bye, the Spartans will need to continue to win the games agaisnt teams below themselves in the pecking order. That will have to happen on Thurday at Samford. Go Spartans !!!
Friday, January 17, 2014
Davidson (7-11) @ UNCG (10-9)
When: Saturday, January 18 5:00 pm
Where: Greensboro Coliseum (7,617)^
TV: Spartan All-Access
^ - Greensboro Coliseum is undergoing renovations and will not be using the upper deck for any seating at UNCG games this season. I do not have the official seat totals with these changes.
Davidson Athletics
UNCG Stats
Last Game: Citadel (W 69-65 OT) Recap
PPG: 71.1
RPG: 37.2
APG: 12.9
Leader Points: Kyle Cain (15.7)
Leader Rebounds: 9.1
Leader Assists: Tevon Saddler (3.0)
FG %: 44.9
3 Pt %: 35.1
FT %: 68.5
Davidson Stats
Last Game: Elon (L 85-87 OT) Recap
PPG: 75.4
RPG: 31.6
APG: 12.3
Leader Points: De'Mon Brooks (17.3)
Leader Rebounds: De'Mon Brooks (6.9)
Leader Assists: Tyler Kalinoski (3.3)
FG %: 44.7
3 Pt %: 32.1
FT %: 67.8
Thoughts
First off, let's not let the record fool us. Davidson is a good basketball team. The SoCon's standard bearer has played a tough schedule. Like UNCG, they've matched up with four ACC teams. Five of their losses have came to ranked teams. They dropped an overtime heart breaker in Chapel Hill to UNC after leading for almost the entire game. The Wildcats also played a chunk of their non-conference schedule without potential Player of the Year De'mon Brooks. So, it's no surprise to see them already getting some momentum as conference play starts.
Davidson comes to Greensboro after dropping a tough overtime thriller to Elon. The loss was their first to a SoCon opponent in Belk Arena since 2011. Elon erased a 14 point Davidson lead in the last five minutes of play. The team is led by Brooks, but still seems to be looking for other to step up and fill roles left void by Jake Cohen, JP Kuhlman and Nik Cochran. Miami (OH) transfer Brian Sullivan has been a nice addition for the Wildcats. Tyler Kalinoski and Tom Droney have stepped up as well. The problem for the Davidson is that even by SoCon standards they are not a very big team.
UNCG leads the SoCon in rebounding margin (+4.1). Davidson is dead last (-5.1). Some of that is a product of the competition that the Wildcats have faced. But still that's a huge hole. It's something that UNCG will have to exploit. The Spartans will pose some matchup problems for Davidson. Kyle Cain and Kayel Locke have been a very good post duo and should match up well with Brooks. The problem for UNCG is on the defensive end. Even though Davidson hasn't been tremendous on offense, UNCG struggles with very deliberate offenses. Davidson is still coached by Bob McKillop and he is very good at his job. His team will stick to their style of play and will make all 5 players on the floor defend. They will keep reversing the ball until they find the correct shot.
This is a ridiculously important game. Yes, it only counts as 1 in the win-loss column, but it carries more significance than just that number. UNCG got spanked in their first shot at a good SoCon team. Since then, they've loaded up against the bottom of the conference. Now it's time to try it again with the reigning "Kings of the SoCon". A loss wouldn't be the end of the year. But a win could send a big message that UNCG can't be overlooked. This should be a fun game and fun environment. Can UNCG seize the moment? We'll soon find out. Go Spartans !!!
Where: Greensboro Coliseum (7,617)^
TV: Spartan All-Access
^ - Greensboro Coliseum is undergoing renovations and will not be using the upper deck for any seating at UNCG games this season. I do not have the official seat totals with these changes.
Davidson Athletics
UNCG Stats
Last Game: Citadel (W 69-65 OT) Recap
PPG: 71.1
RPG: 37.2
APG: 12.9
Leader Points: Kyle Cain (15.7)
Leader Rebounds: 9.1
Leader Assists: Tevon Saddler (3.0)
FG %: 44.9
3 Pt %: 35.1
FT %: 68.5
Davidson Stats
Last Game: Elon (L 85-87 OT) Recap
PPG: 75.4
RPG: 31.6
APG: 12.3
Leader Points: De'Mon Brooks (17.3)
Leader Rebounds: De'Mon Brooks (6.9)
Leader Assists: Tyler Kalinoski (3.3)
FG %: 44.7
3 Pt %: 32.1
FT %: 67.8
Thoughts
First off, let's not let the record fool us. Davidson is a good basketball team. The SoCon's standard bearer has played a tough schedule. Like UNCG, they've matched up with four ACC teams. Five of their losses have came to ranked teams. They dropped an overtime heart breaker in Chapel Hill to UNC after leading for almost the entire game. The Wildcats also played a chunk of their non-conference schedule without potential Player of the Year De'mon Brooks. So, it's no surprise to see them already getting some momentum as conference play starts.
Davidson comes to Greensboro after dropping a tough overtime thriller to Elon. The loss was their first to a SoCon opponent in Belk Arena since 2011. Elon erased a 14 point Davidson lead in the last five minutes of play. The team is led by Brooks, but still seems to be looking for other to step up and fill roles left void by Jake Cohen, JP Kuhlman and Nik Cochran. Miami (OH) transfer Brian Sullivan has been a nice addition for the Wildcats. Tyler Kalinoski and Tom Droney have stepped up as well. The problem for the Davidson is that even by SoCon standards they are not a very big team.
UNCG leads the SoCon in rebounding margin (+4.1). Davidson is dead last (-5.1). Some of that is a product of the competition that the Wildcats have faced. But still that's a huge hole. It's something that UNCG will have to exploit. The Spartans will pose some matchup problems for Davidson. Kyle Cain and Kayel Locke have been a very good post duo and should match up well with Brooks. The problem for UNCG is on the defensive end. Even though Davidson hasn't been tremendous on offense, UNCG struggles with very deliberate offenses. Davidson is still coached by Bob McKillop and he is very good at his job. His team will stick to their style of play and will make all 5 players on the floor defend. They will keep reversing the ball until they find the correct shot.
This is a ridiculously important game. Yes, it only counts as 1 in the win-loss column, but it carries more significance than just that number. UNCG got spanked in their first shot at a good SoCon team. Since then, they've loaded up against the bottom of the conference. Now it's time to try it again with the reigning "Kings of the SoCon". A loss wouldn't be the end of the year. But a win could send a big message that UNCG can't be overlooked. This should be a fun game and fun environment. Can UNCG seize the moment? We'll soon find out. Go Spartans !!!
Thursday, January 16, 2014
Spartans Pull Out Tough Win in Overtime
UNCG 69 - Citadel 65 OT
UNCG Athletics
Citadel Athletics
Halftime: UNCG 20 - Citadel 31
UNCG Stats
Leader points: Locke (21)
Leader Rebounds: Cain (16)
Leader Assists: Parker, Potts (Tied - 2)
Team FG: 24-66 (36.4%)
Team 3 Pt: 5-17 (29.4%)
Team FT: 16-26 (61.5%)
Rebounds: 45
Turnovers: 11
Citadel Stats
Leader Points: Moore (21)
Leader Rebounds: Van Scyoc (11)
Leader Assists: Moore (5)
Team FG: 23-41 (41.8%)
Team 3 Pt: 10-28 (35.7%)
Team FT: 9-18 (50.0%)
Rebounds: 34
Turnovers: 15
Thoughts
Here is a perfect example of a game that UNCG would have absolutely lost last year. The team would have went in at half down by 11, and when the lead ballooned to 14 it would have full on panic mode. The rest of the half, the home fans would have watched their Spartans jack up bad shots looking for the mythical 10 point play.
Instead, UNCG steadily fought its way back into this game. Now the Bulldogs helped them out by playing poor on the offensive end and giving the ball away at bad times. But UNCG never led in this game until Nicholas Paulos's 3 pointer in overtime. Once they took the lead, you could just see it in their eyes. They weren't giving this game back.
Kyle Cain and Kayel Locke were just unstoppable for long stretches tonight. The rest of the team contributed enough to help push G to the tough victory. Other than the huge rebound discrepancy, the stats aren't easy on the eyes. The one other category that is fun to look at, though, is the turnovers. UNCG improved to 5-1 when it turns the ball over 13 or less times.
In order for UNCG to get a bye for the SoCon Tournament, they are going to have to find a way to win games when they are not playing very well. This was one of those nights. When I look back on this game in a few weeks, it will simply be a win. I'll remember very little about how it became a win. That works for me.
Now Saturday has the chance to be a lot of fun. Davidson comes to Greensboro for the last time. The Spartans have a chance to measure themselves against another of the best teams in the SoCon. The last time this happened against Western Carolina, UNCG wasn't ready for "prime time". Maybe they will be this time. Go Spartans !!!
UNCG Athletics
Citadel Athletics
Halftime: UNCG 20 - Citadel 31
UNCG Stats
Leader points: Locke (21)
Leader Rebounds: Cain (16)
Leader Assists: Parker, Potts (Tied - 2)
Team FG: 24-66 (36.4%)
Team 3 Pt: 5-17 (29.4%)
Team FT: 16-26 (61.5%)
Rebounds: 45
Turnovers: 11
Citadel Stats
Leader Points: Moore (21)
Leader Rebounds: Van Scyoc (11)
Leader Assists: Moore (5)
Team FG: 23-41 (41.8%)
Team 3 Pt: 10-28 (35.7%)
Team FT: 9-18 (50.0%)
Rebounds: 34
Turnovers: 15
Thoughts
Here is a perfect example of a game that UNCG would have absolutely lost last year. The team would have went in at half down by 11, and when the lead ballooned to 14 it would have full on panic mode. The rest of the half, the home fans would have watched their Spartans jack up bad shots looking for the mythical 10 point play.
Instead, UNCG steadily fought its way back into this game. Now the Bulldogs helped them out by playing poor on the offensive end and giving the ball away at bad times. But UNCG never led in this game until Nicholas Paulos's 3 pointer in overtime. Once they took the lead, you could just see it in their eyes. They weren't giving this game back.
Kyle Cain and Kayel Locke were just unstoppable for long stretches tonight. The rest of the team contributed enough to help push G to the tough victory. Other than the huge rebound discrepancy, the stats aren't easy on the eyes. The one other category that is fun to look at, though, is the turnovers. UNCG improved to 5-1 when it turns the ball over 13 or less times.
In order for UNCG to get a bye for the SoCon Tournament, they are going to have to find a way to win games when they are not playing very well. This was one of those nights. When I look back on this game in a few weeks, it will simply be a win. I'll remember very little about how it became a win. That works for me.
Now Saturday has the chance to be a lot of fun. Davidson comes to Greensboro for the last time. The Spartans have a chance to measure themselves against another of the best teams in the SoCon. The last time this happened against Western Carolina, UNCG wasn't ready for "prime time". Maybe they will be this time. Go Spartans !!!
Wednesday, January 15, 2014
Citadel (4-14) @ UNCG (9-9)
When: Thursday, January 16 7:00 pm
Where: Greensboro Coliseum (7,617)^
TV: Spartan All-Access
^ - Greensboro Coliseum is undergoing renovations and will not be using the upper deck for any seating at UNCG games this season. I do not have the official seat totals with these changes.
Citadel Athletics
UNCG Stats
Last Game: @ App State (W 66-60) Recap
PPG: 71.2
RPG: 36.7
APG: 13.2
Leader Points: Kyle Cain (15.4)
Leader Reboudns: Kyle Cain (8.7)
Leader Assists: Tevon Saddler (3.1)
FG %: 45.5
3 Pt %: 35.4
FT %: 69.0
Citadel Stats
Last game: @ Elon (L 65-74) Recap
Leader Points: Matt Van Scyoc (14.8)
Leader Rebounds: Brian White (7.1)
Leader Assists: Marshall Harris III (4.3)
FG %: 42.8
3 Pt %: 36.3
FT %: 72.0
Thoughts
Let me start off by saying this game feels like the Presbyterian game. It's like a game that most UNCG fans have already counted as a win. It's a game UNCG probably should win at home. The problem is that UNCG is young and has shown the ability to lay an egg at bad times. This could be one of those times.
The Bulldogs don't look to be a particularly potent offensive squad, but they do have the size to match up better with UNCG than the last 2 SoCon opponents. Brian White is looking a lot like the SoCon Freshman of the Year. 6'-8" PJ Horgan has decided to push through his back problems and get back on the court. So far in 3 games, he's not made a huge statistical contribution, but he could be a factor on Thursday. UNCG will have to do a good job guarding Citadel's outside shooters like Van Scyoc, Moore and Harris III.
For the Spartans it all comes back to securing the basketball. UNCG will need to take better care of the ball against a team that doesn't really force many turnovers. It's a problem to give a not so good offensive team easy looks because of turnovers. Hopefully with lower turnovers, UNCG can create better looks on the offensive end. Also it would be nice to see the defensive efficiency from Boone carry over for another game.
This game is very important for UNCG. The way the tiers appear to be breaking for the SoCon, UNCG needs to win the games it is supposed to in order to get a bye. With a huge game on the horizon against Davidson, UNCG needs to not get caught looking ahead and come with focus Bulldogs. If that happens, Saturday afternoon's game should be fun. Got to get this one first, though. Go Spartans !!!
Where: Greensboro Coliseum (7,617)^
TV: Spartan All-Access
^ - Greensboro Coliseum is undergoing renovations and will not be using the upper deck for any seating at UNCG games this season. I do not have the official seat totals with these changes.
Citadel Athletics
UNCG Stats
Last Game: @ App State (W 66-60) Recap
PPG: 71.2
RPG: 36.7
APG: 13.2
Leader Points: Kyle Cain (15.4)
Leader Reboudns: Kyle Cain (8.7)
Leader Assists: Tevon Saddler (3.1)
FG %: 45.5
3 Pt %: 35.4
FT %: 69.0
Citadel Stats
Last game: @ Elon (L 65-74) Recap
Leader Points: Matt Van Scyoc (14.8)
Leader Rebounds: Brian White (7.1)
Leader Assists: Marshall Harris III (4.3)
FG %: 42.8
3 Pt %: 36.3
FT %: 72.0
Thoughts
Let me start off by saying this game feels like the Presbyterian game. It's like a game that most UNCG fans have already counted as a win. It's a game UNCG probably should win at home. The problem is that UNCG is young and has shown the ability to lay an egg at bad times. This could be one of those times.
The Bulldogs don't look to be a particularly potent offensive squad, but they do have the size to match up better with UNCG than the last 2 SoCon opponents. Brian White is looking a lot like the SoCon Freshman of the Year. 6'-8" PJ Horgan has decided to push through his back problems and get back on the court. So far in 3 games, he's not made a huge statistical contribution, but he could be a factor on Thursday. UNCG will have to do a good job guarding Citadel's outside shooters like Van Scyoc, Moore and Harris III.
For the Spartans it all comes back to securing the basketball. UNCG will need to take better care of the ball against a team that doesn't really force many turnovers. It's a problem to give a not so good offensive team easy looks because of turnovers. Hopefully with lower turnovers, UNCG can create better looks on the offensive end. Also it would be nice to see the defensive efficiency from Boone carry over for another game.
This game is very important for UNCG. The way the tiers appear to be breaking for the SoCon, UNCG needs to win the games it is supposed to in order to get a bye. With a huge game on the horizon against Davidson, UNCG needs to not get caught looking ahead and come with focus Bulldogs. If that happens, Saturday afternoon's game should be fun. Got to get this one first, though. Go Spartans !!!
Tuesday, January 7, 2014
4 Factors - Furman
Points Per Possesion
UNCG - 1.27
Furman - 1.16
4 Factors
eFG %
UNCG - 63.5
Furman - 56.0
TO %
UNCG - 14.1
Furman - 18.4
OR %
UNCG - 20.5
Furman - 23.0
FT Rate
UNCG - 30.5
Furman - 66.0
UNCG - 1.27
Furman - 1.16
4 Factors
eFG %
UNCG - 63.5
Furman - 56.0
TO %
UNCG - 14.1
Furman - 18.4
OR %
UNCG - 20.5
Furman - 23.0
FT Rate
UNCG - 30.5
Furman - 66.0
UNCG Offense Turns Back Furman
UNCG 90 - Furman 82
UNCG Athletics
Furman Athletics
UNCG Stats
Leader Points: Locke (18)
Leader Rebounds: Cain (6)
Leader Assists: Potts (6)
Team FG: 34-59 (57.6%)
Team 3 Pt: 7-18 (38.9%)
Team FT: 15-18 (83.3%)
Rebounds: 27
Turnovers: 10
Furman Stats
Leader Points: Croone, Ferrara (Tied - 21)
Leader Rebounds: Croone (5)
Leader ASsists: Croone (3)
Team FG: 25-50 (50.0%)
Team 3 Pt: 6-17 (36.3%)
Team FT: 26-33 (78.8%)
Rebounds: 27
Turnovers: 13
Thoughts
I hate to break games down to just one stat. But seriously, if UNCG doesn't turn the ball over it almost always wins. Now inherently from the lack of turnovers comes better offense and better shots. That's what we saw on Monday night. UNCG shot an eFG above 75% in the second half and scored on 15 of 16 possessions to finish the game. Even more importantly, the team stayed together and fought through what I though were some very marginal calls that went the way of Furman.
Now with all of the good on the offensive end, UNCG wasn't particularly good on the defensive side. Croone and Ferrara each scored 21 and at times UNCG couldn't keep Croone in front of them. I thought Jordan Potts did a decent job on Croone. But again, I thought the refs helped bail out Croone on several out of control drives. Ferrara impressed me with some nice post moves and he single handily got all of the Spartan big men in foul trouble.
For UNCG, it was nice to Paulos and Potts make some long range shots and it really seemed to open up lanes for everyone else. It was nice to see Drew Parker and Tevon Saddler pull up hit some smooth mid range jumpers. If Saddler can add that to his skill set, he will be very tough later in the season.
For UNCG it was a much needed SoCon win and a home win to boot. For the Spartans to legitimately have a chance to finish in the top 5 and secure a bye they will need to protect their home court throughout the season. This was a good start. Go Spartans !!!
UNCG Athletics
Furman Athletics
UNCG Stats
Leader Points: Locke (18)
Leader Rebounds: Cain (6)
Leader Assists: Potts (6)
Team FG: 34-59 (57.6%)
Team 3 Pt: 7-18 (38.9%)
Team FT: 15-18 (83.3%)
Rebounds: 27
Turnovers: 10
Furman Stats
Leader Points: Croone, Ferrara (Tied - 21)
Leader Rebounds: Croone (5)
Leader ASsists: Croone (3)
Team FG: 25-50 (50.0%)
Team 3 Pt: 6-17 (36.3%)
Team FT: 26-33 (78.8%)
Rebounds: 27
Turnovers: 13
Thoughts
I hate to break games down to just one stat. But seriously, if UNCG doesn't turn the ball over it almost always wins. Now inherently from the lack of turnovers comes better offense and better shots. That's what we saw on Monday night. UNCG shot an eFG above 75% in the second half and scored on 15 of 16 possessions to finish the game. Even more importantly, the team stayed together and fought through what I though were some very marginal calls that went the way of Furman.
Now with all of the good on the offensive end, UNCG wasn't particularly good on the defensive side. Croone and Ferrara each scored 21 and at times UNCG couldn't keep Croone in front of them. I thought Jordan Potts did a decent job on Croone. But again, I thought the refs helped bail out Croone on several out of control drives. Ferrara impressed me with some nice post moves and he single handily got all of the Spartan big men in foul trouble.
For UNCG, it was nice to Paulos and Potts make some long range shots and it really seemed to open up lanes for everyone else. It was nice to see Drew Parker and Tevon Saddler pull up hit some smooth mid range jumpers. If Saddler can add that to his skill set, he will be very tough later in the season.
For UNCG it was a much needed SoCon win and a home win to boot. For the Spartans to legitimately have a chance to finish in the top 5 and secure a bye they will need to protect their home court throughout the season. This was a good start. Go Spartans !!!
Monday, January 6, 2014
Furman (6-8) @ UNCG (7-9)
When: Monday, January 6 7:00 pm
Where: Greensboro Coliseum (7,617)^
TV: SpartaN All-Access
^ - Greensboro Coliseum is undergoing renovations and will not be using the upper deck for any seating at UNCG games this season. I do not have the official seat totals with these changes.
Furman Athletics
UNCG Stats
Last Game: @ Western Carolina (L 51-72) Recap
PPG: 70.3
RPG: 37.1
APG: 13.1
Leader Points: Kyle Cain (15.9)
Leader Rebounds: Kyle cain (8.5)
Assists: Tevon Saddler (3.1
FG %: 44.6
3 Pt %: 35.3
FT %: 68.6
Furman Stats
Last Game: hattanooga (L 63-72) Recap
PPG: 67.3
RPG: 32.7
APG: 9.6
Leader Points: Stephen Croone 20.0
Leader Rebounds: Stephen Croone (5.0)
Leader Assists: Stephen Croone (3.6)
FG %: 44.1
3 Pt %: 35.1
FT %: 70.4
Thoughts
After falling flat in their conference debut, we get to see if UNCG can pick themselves up and get back after it. The Spartans played a pretty tough stretch of 3 games in 6 days, including an emotional win at Virginia Tech and a near comeback against NC State. I guess we all should have seen a letdown coming in the way of the Western Carolina game. But it's now been a few days. Hopefully the guys have had a few days to recharge and work on things in practice. It's time to go out and protect the home court and get win #1 in conference.
Furman comes into the Greensboro Coliseum tonight and looks a lot like UNCG. They're not a great offensive team, but have been adequate at times. They do have a bad loss to non-D1 Mint Hill. There are 2 common opponents in Presbyterian (W 74-59) and Virginia Tech (L 75-54). They are led completely by Stephen Croone was is having a great year. Just like Trey Sumler for the last opponent, Croone leads Furman in almost every major category and is super quick with the ball in his hands. He will be a handful for the the UNCG back court to contain.
However, the Paladins should struggle to match up against UNCG's interior players. Look for Kyle Cain, Kayel Locke and RJ White to be huge factors tonight. As I pointed out in my recap of the WCU game, UNCG big men are going to have to do a good job tonight of feeling the double teams coming and finding open players who will need to make shots. Also, it would be nice to see the Spartans do a better job of taking care of the basketball. A turnover number less than 12 would be a good thing.
If UNCG is serious about contending for this league and picking up a bye for the tournament, they really need to have this game. It's a home game against an opponent that they are favored against. It's time to even up the conference record. Go Spartans !!!
Where: Greensboro Coliseum (7,617)^
TV: SpartaN All-Access
^ - Greensboro Coliseum is undergoing renovations and will not be using the upper deck for any seating at UNCG games this season. I do not have the official seat totals with these changes.
Furman Athletics
UNCG Stats
Last Game: @ Western Carolina (L 51-72) Recap
PPG: 70.3
RPG: 37.1
APG: 13.1
Leader Points: Kyle Cain (15.9)
Leader Rebounds: Kyle cain (8.5)
Assists: Tevon Saddler (3.1
FG %: 44.6
3 Pt %: 35.3
FT %: 68.6
Furman Stats
Last Game: hattanooga (L 63-72) Recap
PPG: 67.3
RPG: 32.7
APG: 9.6
Leader Points: Stephen Croone 20.0
Leader Rebounds: Stephen Croone (5.0)
Leader Assists: Stephen Croone (3.6)
FG %: 44.1
3 Pt %: 35.1
FT %: 70.4
Thoughts
After falling flat in their conference debut, we get to see if UNCG can pick themselves up and get back after it. The Spartans played a pretty tough stretch of 3 games in 6 days, including an emotional win at Virginia Tech and a near comeback against NC State. I guess we all should have seen a letdown coming in the way of the Western Carolina game. But it's now been a few days. Hopefully the guys have had a few days to recharge and work on things in practice. It's time to go out and protect the home court and get win #1 in conference.
Furman comes into the Greensboro Coliseum tonight and looks a lot like UNCG. They're not a great offensive team, but have been adequate at times. They do have a bad loss to non-D1 Mint Hill. There are 2 common opponents in Presbyterian (W 74-59) and Virginia Tech (L 75-54). They are led completely by Stephen Croone was is having a great year. Just like Trey Sumler for the last opponent, Croone leads Furman in almost every major category and is super quick with the ball in his hands. He will be a handful for the the UNCG back court to contain.
However, the Paladins should struggle to match up against UNCG's interior players. Look for Kyle Cain, Kayel Locke and RJ White to be huge factors tonight. As I pointed out in my recap of the WCU game, UNCG big men are going to have to do a good job tonight of feeling the double teams coming and finding open players who will need to make shots. Also, it would be nice to see the Spartans do a better job of taking care of the basketball. A turnover number less than 12 would be a good thing.
If UNCG is serious about contending for this league and picking up a bye for the tournament, they really need to have this game. It's a home game against an opponent that they are favored against. It's time to even up the conference record. Go Spartans !!!
Tuesday, December 31, 2013
Wolfpack Hold of Spartans
UNCG 64 - NC State 68
UNCG Athletics
NC State Athletics
Halftime: UNCG 35 - NC State 38
UNCG Stats
Leader Points: Locke (19)
Leader Rebounds: Cain (8)
Leader Assist: Parker (3)
Team FG: 22-58 (37.9%)
Team 3 Pt: 3-15 (20.0%)
Team FT: 17-28 (60.7%)
Rebounds: 43
Turnovers: 16
NC State Stats
Leader Points: Warren (24)
Leader Rebounds: Warren (9)
Leader Assists: Barber (6)
Team FG: 24-59 (40.7%)
Team 3 Pt: 1-6 (16.7%)
Team FT: 19-33 (57.6%)
Rebounds: 35
Turnovers: 12
Thoughts
To think at 35 years of age, I was that close to storming the court for the first time. I'm partially joking, of course. It wouldn't be my first time. But I digress ...
UNCG came very close to pulling off their second shocker in 48 hours. And quite frankly, they are playing the best ball of any team in the Southern Conference right now. Wes Miller noted in his press conference (I'll link it in a few) That during a tough stretch against 3 ACC programs in a row that the team not only stayed composed, but got better with each game. Against NC State, UNCG was much better than they were against Virginia Tech. Unfortunately , NC State is better than Virginia Tech. So playing better did not equate to a win.
On the tough side, UNCG struggled with turning the ball over. Eleven 2nd half turnovers really helped to put UNCG in a hole that they spent most of the second half fighting through. 3 point shooting has been tough the last few games. I think you can attribute a lot of that to Nicholas Paulos having to spend all of his energy guarding tremendous opposing players. I believe that his shots will start to fall more frequently in conference play. Free throw shooting wasn't particularly good for the Spartans either. NC State was worse, but I'll get to that in a minute.
On the bright side, Paulos and Diante Baldwin did a great job chasing TJ Warren all night. Warren got his average, but he has to work for it and really did very little in the last 10 minutes. I thought it was another night of everyone that got in the game contributing something to help the cause. I thought coach Wes Miller and his coaching staff made a great call at the end too. UNCG did the right thing by going for the quick 2 with 21 seconds left. Sure, they could have held on and took a late clock 3. But with NC State shooting awful at the line, it made sense to take the 2 and foul. It was just unfortunate the shot didn't go down. It was still the correct call in my mind.
Okay, well that was certainly a fun little ACC stretch. UNCG went 1-2, with it's 2 losses by a combined 12 points. Now the games count. Starting Thursday at Western this thing gets serious. To quote Major League, "I guess there's only one thing left to do. Win the whole. Fucking. Thing." Go Spartans !!!
UNCG Athletics
NC State Athletics
Halftime: UNCG 35 - NC State 38
UNCG Stats
Leader Points: Locke (19)
Leader Rebounds: Cain (8)
Leader Assist: Parker (3)
Team FG: 22-58 (37.9%)
Team 3 Pt: 3-15 (20.0%)
Team FT: 17-28 (60.7%)
Rebounds: 43
Turnovers: 16
NC State Stats
Leader Points: Warren (24)
Leader Rebounds: Warren (9)
Leader Assists: Barber (6)
Team FG: 24-59 (40.7%)
Team 3 Pt: 1-6 (16.7%)
Team FT: 19-33 (57.6%)
Rebounds: 35
Turnovers: 12
Thoughts
To think at 35 years of age, I was that close to storming the court for the first time. I'm partially joking, of course. It wouldn't be my first time. But I digress ...
UNCG came very close to pulling off their second shocker in 48 hours. And quite frankly, they are playing the best ball of any team in the Southern Conference right now. Wes Miller noted in his press conference (I'll link it in a few) That during a tough stretch against 3 ACC programs in a row that the team not only stayed composed, but got better with each game. Against NC State, UNCG was much better than they were against Virginia Tech. Unfortunately , NC State is better than Virginia Tech. So playing better did not equate to a win.
On the tough side, UNCG struggled with turning the ball over. Eleven 2nd half turnovers really helped to put UNCG in a hole that they spent most of the second half fighting through. 3 point shooting has been tough the last few games. I think you can attribute a lot of that to Nicholas Paulos having to spend all of his energy guarding tremendous opposing players. I believe that his shots will start to fall more frequently in conference play. Free throw shooting wasn't particularly good for the Spartans either. NC State was worse, but I'll get to that in a minute.
On the bright side, Paulos and Diante Baldwin did a great job chasing TJ Warren all night. Warren got his average, but he has to work for it and really did very little in the last 10 minutes. I thought it was another night of everyone that got in the game contributing something to help the cause. I thought coach Wes Miller and his coaching staff made a great call at the end too. UNCG did the right thing by going for the quick 2 with 21 seconds left. Sure, they could have held on and took a late clock 3. But with NC State shooting awful at the line, it made sense to take the 2 and foul. It was just unfortunate the shot didn't go down. It was still the correct call in my mind.
Okay, well that was certainly a fun little ACC stretch. UNCG went 1-2, with it's 2 losses by a combined 12 points. Now the games count. Starting Thursday at Western this thing gets serious. To quote Major League, "I guess there's only one thing left to do. Win the whole. Fucking. Thing." Go Spartans !!!
Monday, December 30, 2013
NC State (9-3) @ UNCG (7-7)
When: Monday, December 30 7:00 pm
Where: Greensboro Coliseum (7,617)^
TV: ESPN3
^ - Greensboro Coliseum is undergoing renovations and will not be using the upper deck for any seating at UNCG games this season. I do not have the official seat totals with these changes.
NC State Athletics
Preseason Preview
UNCG Stats
Last game: @ Va Tech (W 55-52) Recap
PPG: 72.1
RPG: 37.0
APG: 13.6
Leader Points: Kyle Cain (16.1)
Leader Rebounds: Kyle Cain (8.6)
Leader Assist: Tevon Saddler (3.5)
FG %: 45.4
3 Pt %: 36.5
FT %: 68.3
NC State Stats
Last Game: Missouri (L 64-68) Recap
PPG: 75.9
RPG: 36.6
APG: 14.5
Leader Points: TJ Warren (23.9)
Leader Rebounds: TJ Warren (7.8)
Leader Assist: Anthony Barber (4.4)
FG %: 49.0
3 Pt %: 30.5
FT %: 65.2
Thoughts
48 hours after the first UNCG win against an ACC team in 6 years is a game against another ACC team. Thanks to the magic of the Greensboro Coliseum schedule makers deciding to put the Elon-Duke game on New Year's Eve, the Spartans have a super quick turnaround to face a team that they don't particularly match up well against. Shooting, and particularly the type of shots each team takes, could be the key to this one.
NC State is again one of the best teams at shooting inside the arc. Their kryptonite, however, is the zone defense. Teams have been daring the Wolfpack to beat them from behind the arc. So far, NC State really hasn't proven to be a team that can make a boatload of 3's. However, their freshman PG Cat Barber can use his quickness to be a zone breaker all by himself. Keeping Barber out of the lane is a must if the Spartans want to have any success.
TJ Warren is the best individual player UNCG will face all year. He's a scorer that finds about a billion different ways to light up the scoreboard. He's not a proficient shooter, but he'll make a few. He makes his living around the rim. He find all kinds of ways to put the ball in the basket and he rarely doesn't finish plays. The Wolfpack have 7'-0 Jordan Vandenberg on the back line. His job is to dunk the ball and block shots. It will be up to UNCG's post players to pull him away from the basket with their face up game.
This game is going to require that UNCG hit some 3 pointers. In order to open driving lanes up against the bigger Wolfpack, the outside shots will have to go in with some frequency. Beyond that, it wouldn't hurt to see Barber and Vandenberg get into some foul trouble. It goes without saying that UNCG will have to limit their turnovers and continue to build on 5 straight halves of solid team defense.
If G can again limit the number of possessions in this game and keep the score in the 60's, they will stand a much better chance of pulling off a second straight shocker. Go Spartans !!!
Where: Greensboro Coliseum (7,617)^
TV: ESPN3
^ - Greensboro Coliseum is undergoing renovations and will not be using the upper deck for any seating at UNCG games this season. I do not have the official seat totals with these changes.
NC State Athletics
Preseason Preview
UNCG Stats
Last game: @ Va Tech (W 55-52) Recap
PPG: 72.1
RPG: 37.0
APG: 13.6
Leader Points: Kyle Cain (16.1)
Leader Rebounds: Kyle Cain (8.6)
Leader Assist: Tevon Saddler (3.5)
FG %: 45.4
3 Pt %: 36.5
FT %: 68.3
NC State Stats
Last Game: Missouri (L 64-68) Recap
PPG: 75.9
RPG: 36.6
APG: 14.5
Leader Points: TJ Warren (23.9)
Leader Rebounds: TJ Warren (7.8)
Leader Assist: Anthony Barber (4.4)
FG %: 49.0
3 Pt %: 30.5
FT %: 65.2
Thoughts
48 hours after the first UNCG win against an ACC team in 6 years is a game against another ACC team. Thanks to the magic of the Greensboro Coliseum schedule makers deciding to put the Elon-Duke game on New Year's Eve, the Spartans have a super quick turnaround to face a team that they don't particularly match up well against. Shooting, and particularly the type of shots each team takes, could be the key to this one.
NC State is again one of the best teams at shooting inside the arc. Their kryptonite, however, is the zone defense. Teams have been daring the Wolfpack to beat them from behind the arc. So far, NC State really hasn't proven to be a team that can make a boatload of 3's. However, their freshman PG Cat Barber can use his quickness to be a zone breaker all by himself. Keeping Barber out of the lane is a must if the Spartans want to have any success.
TJ Warren is the best individual player UNCG will face all year. He's a scorer that finds about a billion different ways to light up the scoreboard. He's not a proficient shooter, but he'll make a few. He makes his living around the rim. He find all kinds of ways to put the ball in the basket and he rarely doesn't finish plays. The Wolfpack have 7'-0 Jordan Vandenberg on the back line. His job is to dunk the ball and block shots. It will be up to UNCG's post players to pull him away from the basket with their face up game.
This game is going to require that UNCG hit some 3 pointers. In order to open driving lanes up against the bigger Wolfpack, the outside shots will have to go in with some frequency. Beyond that, it wouldn't hurt to see Barber and Vandenberg get into some foul trouble. It goes without saying that UNCG will have to limit their turnovers and continue to build on 5 straight halves of solid team defense.
If G can again limit the number of possessions in this game and keep the score in the 60's, they will stand a much better chance of pulling off a second straight shocker. Go Spartans !!!
Thursday, December 19, 2013
4 Factors - JMU
Points Per Possesion
UNCG - 1.27
JMU - 1.07
4 Factors
eFG %
UNCG - 61.3
JMU - 48.9
TO %
UNCG - 11.4
JMU - 13.2
OR %
UNCG - 20.0
JMU - 18.9
FT Rate
UNCG - 32.0
JMU - 50.0
UNCG - 1.27
JMU - 1.07
4 Factors
eFG %
UNCG - 61.3
JMU - 48.9
TO %
UNCG - 11.4
JMU - 13.2
OR %
UNCG - 20.0
JMU - 18.9
FT Rate
UNCG - 32.0
JMU - 50.0
Spartans Storm Past James Madison
UNCG 78 - JMU 65
UNCG Athletics
JMU Athletics
Halftime: UNCG 36 - JMU 42
UNCG Stats
Leader Points: Paulos (21)
Leader Rebounds: Cain (7)
Leader Assists: Parker. Saddler (Tied - 5)
Team FG: 27-53 (50.9%)
Team 3 Pt: 11-19 (57.9%)
Team FT: 13-17 (76.5%)
Rebounds: 30
Turnovers: 7
James Madison Stats
Leader Points: Curry (23)
Leader Reboudns: Vadonvich (2)
Leader Assists: Cooke (3)
Team FG: 21-48 (43.8%)
Team 3 Pt: 5-20 (25.0%)
Team FT: 18-24 (75.0%)
Rebounds: 28
Turnovers: 8
Thoughts
That was the most complete game UNCG has played all season (by a mile). I thought everyone that got in made genuine contributions and played within themselves. I was particularly impressed with what RJ White was able to bring on the offensive and defensive ends and Diante Baldwin really played some very good defense. Someone needed to accept that role for this team, and hopefully this game is the start of him accepting it. The entire second half defense was just really good.
On the super bright side for the Spartans, the guards did a wonderful job of taking care of the ball and distributing it to the right places to beat the JMU zone. Parker, Saddler, Potts and Baldwin combined to have only 1 turnover and 10 assists. I also thought the UNCG big men did a good job passing out double teams.
Since I've been hard on UNCG for a couple of weeks now. I have no desire to look for or write anything negative. It was just a good win. The Spartans showed 40 minutes of focus and effort and I'm very happy to see the team win this one. Go Spartans !!!
UNCG Athletics
JMU Athletics
Halftime: UNCG 36 - JMU 42
UNCG Stats
Leader Points: Paulos (21)
Leader Rebounds: Cain (7)
Leader Assists: Parker. Saddler (Tied - 5)
Team FG: 27-53 (50.9%)
Team 3 Pt: 11-19 (57.9%)
Team FT: 13-17 (76.5%)
Rebounds: 30
Turnovers: 7
James Madison Stats
Leader Points: Curry (23)
Leader Reboudns: Vadonvich (2)
Leader Assists: Cooke (3)
Team FG: 21-48 (43.8%)
Team 3 Pt: 5-20 (25.0%)
Team FT: 18-24 (75.0%)
Rebounds: 28
Turnovers: 8
Thoughts
That was the most complete game UNCG has played all season (by a mile). I thought everyone that got in made genuine contributions and played within themselves. I was particularly impressed with what RJ White was able to bring on the offensive and defensive ends and Diante Baldwin really played some very good defense. Someone needed to accept that role for this team, and hopefully this game is the start of him accepting it. The entire second half defense was just really good.
On the super bright side for the Spartans, the guards did a wonderful job of taking care of the ball and distributing it to the right places to beat the JMU zone. Parker, Saddler, Potts and Baldwin combined to have only 1 turnover and 10 assists. I also thought the UNCG big men did a good job passing out double teams.
Since I've been hard on UNCG for a couple of weeks now. I have no desire to look for or write anything negative. It was just a good win. The Spartans showed 40 minutes of focus and effort and I'm very happy to see the team win this one. Go Spartans !!!
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