UNCG 73 - Wofford 71
UNCG Athletics
Wofford Athletics
Halftime: UNCG 29 - Wofford 38
UNCG Stats
Leader Points: Locke (17)
Leader Rebounds: Cain (8)\
Leader Assists: Potts, Paulos (Tied - 4)
Team FG: 29-47 (61.7%)
Team 3 Pt: 4-6 (66.7%)
Team FT: 11-15 (73.3%)
Rebounds: 30
Turnovers: 10
Wofford Stats
Leader Points: Collins (15)
Leader Rebounds: Skinner (6)
Leader Assists: Cochran (5)
Team FG: 27-55 (49.1%)
Team 3 Pt: 5-15 (33.3%)
Team FT: 12-22 (54.5%)
Rebounds: 23
Turnovers: 4
Thoughts
Despite being down 15-3 right out of the gate, UNCG came back for an important win on Saturday night.The win gave the Spartans the #6 seed for the upcoming SoCon Tournament in Asheville. UNCG will take on #11 seed Citadel at 4:00 on Friday with the winner advancing to face Wofford on Saturday night.
After the poor start, UNCG battled back to only be down by 9 at the half. A second half 12-1 run tied the game at 45 before UNCG went on to lead by as many as 8. However, it took a good defensive stand to cause Karl Cochran to badly miss a midrange shot with about 3 seconds left. Tevon Saddler grabbed the rebound to preserve the win.
Now it's a whole new season. UNCG has at least set themselves up as well as possible for a long stay in Asheville. The Spartans are on the opposite side of the bracket as Davidson, Western Carolina and Elon. At least the teams on bottom half of the bracket are teams that UNCG has defeated at some point this season. Let's hope the Spartans can carry their second half offense with them to the US Cellular Center next weekend. Go Spartans !!!
Showing posts with label Recap. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Recap. Show all posts
Sunday, March 2, 2014
Friday, February 28, 2014
SoCon Champs Hammer UNCG
UNCG 46 - Davidson 79
UNCG Athletics
Davidson Athletics
Halftime: UNCG 25 - Davidson 44
UNCG Stats
Leader Points: White (16)
Leader Rebounds: White (10)
Leader Assists: Parker (2)
Team FG: 21-63 (33.3%)
Team 3 Pt: 1-12 (8.3%)
Team FT: 3-7 (42.9%)
Rebounds: 40
Turnovers: 15
Davidson Stats
Leader Points: Sullivan (19)
Leader Rebounds: Brooks (9)
Leader Assists: Droney (5)
Team FG: 26-58 (44.8%)
Team 3 Pt: 113-27 (48.1%)
Team FT: 14-21 (66.7%)
Rebounds: 41
Turnovers: 9
Thoughts
Well that certainly sucked. Not much to write about that game. Got to move and grab the #6 seed.
UNCG Athletics
Davidson Athletics
Halftime: UNCG 25 - Davidson 44
UNCG Stats
Leader Points: White (16)
Leader Rebounds: White (10)
Leader Assists: Parker (2)
Team FG: 21-63 (33.3%)
Team 3 Pt: 1-12 (8.3%)
Team FT: 3-7 (42.9%)
Rebounds: 40
Turnovers: 15
Davidson Stats
Leader Points: Sullivan (19)
Leader Rebounds: Brooks (9)
Leader Assists: Droney (5)
Team FG: 26-58 (44.8%)
Team 3 Pt: 113-27 (48.1%)
Team FT: 14-21 (66.7%)
Rebounds: 41
Turnovers: 9
Thoughts
Well that certainly sucked. Not much to write about that game. Got to move and grab the #6 seed.
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 !!!
Monday, January 27, 2014
UNCG Can't Dig Out of Early Hole
UNCG 67 - Chattanooga 77
UNCG Athletics
UTC Atheltics
UNCG 28 - Chattanooga 39
UNCG Stats
Leader Points: Saddler (24)
Leader Rebounds: Saddler, Paulos (Tied - 7)
Leader Assists: Saddler, Potts (Tied - 3)
Team FG: 27-60 (45.0%)
Team 3 Pt: 2-10 (20.0%)
Team FT: 11-19 (57.9%)
Rebounds: 39
Turnovers: 18
Chattanooga Stats
Leader Points: Jones (22)
Leader Rebounds: Stoke (8)
Leader Assists: White (4)
Team FG: 24-51 (47.1%)
Team 3 Pt: 5-21 (23.8%)
Team FT: 24-33 (72.7%)
Rebounds: 33
Turnovers: 12
Thoughts
First off, I think it's time I stop looking at every game Chattanooga plays as the game where I find out if they are "for real". They are indeed for real and Z Mason is a wonderful player. I think they have a real chance to win the SoCon and go to the NCAA Tournament.
Having said that, UNCG let a golden chance slip away from them on Saturday night. The Spartans struggled for the first half. Luckily I wasn't anywhere near a TV and didn't have to watch any if it. When I turned on the TV, I found out that Z Mason had been in foul trouble and that G was down 11 at the break. Really ??? So, to see UNCG not only come back but to take a 3 point lead with around 6 to play, I was impressed. But the Mocs are a good team and they responded well. In the end, you just can't spot a good team a double digit halftime lead on their floor and expect to win the game.
Not much more to say than that. Looking ahead, UNCG has 2 winnable home games this coming week. With the schedule getting tougher as February rolls on, the Spartans need to pick up the next 2 to gain some confidence and momentum. This team is still a work in progress and I think we all need to remember that fact. This team is playing a lot of younger players. the "up's and down's" are just how things work with young teams. With March looming, the only thing that really matters is getting on a roll now. Hopefully, that will start on Thursday night. Go Spartans !!!
UNCG Athletics
UTC Atheltics
UNCG 28 - Chattanooga 39
UNCG Stats
Leader Points: Saddler (24)
Leader Rebounds: Saddler, Paulos (Tied - 7)
Leader Assists: Saddler, Potts (Tied - 3)
Team FG: 27-60 (45.0%)
Team 3 Pt: 2-10 (20.0%)
Team FT: 11-19 (57.9%)
Rebounds: 39
Turnovers: 18
Chattanooga Stats
Leader Points: Jones (22)
Leader Rebounds: Stoke (8)
Leader Assists: White (4)
Team FG: 24-51 (47.1%)
Team 3 Pt: 5-21 (23.8%)
Team FT: 24-33 (72.7%)
Rebounds: 33
Turnovers: 12
Thoughts
First off, I think it's time I stop looking at every game Chattanooga plays as the game where I find out if they are "for real". They are indeed for real and Z Mason is a wonderful player. I think they have a real chance to win the SoCon and go to the NCAA Tournament.
Having said that, UNCG let a golden chance slip away from them on Saturday night. The Spartans struggled for the first half. Luckily I wasn't anywhere near a TV and didn't have to watch any if it. When I turned on the TV, I found out that Z Mason had been in foul trouble and that G was down 11 at the break. Really ??? So, to see UNCG not only come back but to take a 3 point lead with around 6 to play, I was impressed. But the Mocs are a good team and they responded well. In the end, you just can't spot a good team a double digit halftime lead on their floor and expect to win the game.
Not much more to say than that. Looking ahead, UNCG has 2 winnable home games this coming week. With the schedule getting tougher as February rolls on, the Spartans need to pick up the next 2 to gain some confidence and momentum. This team is still a work in progress and I think we all need to remember that fact. This team is playing a lot of younger players. the "up's and down's" are just how things work with young teams. With March looming, the only thing that really matters is getting on a roll now. Hopefully, that will start on Thursday night. Go Spartans !!!
Friday, January 24, 2014
Spartans Start Western SoCon Swing With a Thud
UNCG 78 - Samford 88
UNCG Athletics
Samford Atheltics
Halftime: UNCG 33 - Samford 43
UNCG Stats
Leader Points: Cain (23)
Leader Rebound: Cain (11)
Leader Assists: Saddler (6)
Team FG: 26-61 (42.6%)
Team 3 Pt: 4-16 (25.0%)
Team FT: 22-32 (68.8%)
Rebounds: 34
Turnovers: 10
Samford Stats
Leader Points: T. Willimas (29)
Leader Rebounds: T. Willimas (12)
Leader Assists: Miller, Kelly, I. Williams (Tied - 5)
Team FG: 30-51 (58.1%)
Team 3 Pt: 6-10 (60.0%)
Team FT: 22-34 (64.7%)
Rebounds: 36
Turnovers: 12
Thoughts
That was one of the more frustrating games I've watched the Spartans play lately. There are times this team just can't get out of its own way. This was one of those games. UNCG didn't really turn the ball over often, but every time it did, it seemed like Samford ended with a dunk or layup on the other end. The Bulldogs scored 17 points off just 10 UNCG turnovers (UNCG scored 4 off 12 TO's by Samford). Also, it was the second straight game that UNCG players spent more times jawing at the officials than focusing on the next play.
Once again, UNCG post players could not stay out of foul trouble. Kayel Locke was in the process of having a monster game, when fouls took him right out of the contest. It allowed Tim Williams to go wild in the post. Honestly, it was just a bad all around performance by a team that had made bigger strides forward on defense. The Bulldogs got almost any shot they wanted and made most of them. The painful trend that also continued, though, was that Samford out rebounded the Spartans. Rebounding has been a staple of UNCG's all season long. In the past 2 contests UNCG has been out rebounded by 2 teams that are not very good at rebounding the ball.
I'm trying to avoid drawing any major conclusions from this one game alone. The truth is UNCG has a tough last 10 games of it's schedule. To finish in the top 5 (and get a bye) in the SoCon tournament is probably going to take a 10-6 record. From this point forward, the Spartans would need to go 7-3 to get to that mark. While not impossible, that just doesn't seem likely unless this team starts to play much better basketball. Saturday night UNCG moves up the road to Chattanooga. The Mocs are on a 9 game winning streak and are 7-0 in the SoCon. They just destroyed what I have been voting as the best team in the SoCon by 21 points. So, yea ... I'm a little scared as to what could happen in the "Roundhouse". I'll try to stay optimistic for now, though. Go Spartans !!!
UNCG Athletics
Samford Atheltics
Halftime: UNCG 33 - Samford 43
UNCG Stats
Leader Points: Cain (23)
Leader Rebound: Cain (11)
Leader Assists: Saddler (6)
Team FG: 26-61 (42.6%)
Team 3 Pt: 4-16 (25.0%)
Team FT: 22-32 (68.8%)
Rebounds: 34
Turnovers: 10
Samford Stats
Leader Points: T. Willimas (29)
Leader Rebounds: T. Willimas (12)
Leader Assists: Miller, Kelly, I. Williams (Tied - 5)
Team FG: 30-51 (58.1%)
Team 3 Pt: 6-10 (60.0%)
Team FT: 22-34 (64.7%)
Rebounds: 36
Turnovers: 12
Thoughts
That was one of the more frustrating games I've watched the Spartans play lately. There are times this team just can't get out of its own way. This was one of those games. UNCG didn't really turn the ball over often, but every time it did, it seemed like Samford ended with a dunk or layup on the other end. The Bulldogs scored 17 points off just 10 UNCG turnovers (UNCG scored 4 off 12 TO's by Samford). Also, it was the second straight game that UNCG players spent more times jawing at the officials than focusing on the next play.
Once again, UNCG post players could not stay out of foul trouble. Kayel Locke was in the process of having a monster game, when fouls took him right out of the contest. It allowed Tim Williams to go wild in the post. Honestly, it was just a bad all around performance by a team that had made bigger strides forward on defense. The Bulldogs got almost any shot they wanted and made most of them. The painful trend that also continued, though, was that Samford out rebounded the Spartans. Rebounding has been a staple of UNCG's all season long. In the past 2 contests UNCG has been out rebounded by 2 teams that are not very good at rebounding the ball.
I'm trying to avoid drawing any major conclusions from this one game alone. The truth is UNCG has a tough last 10 games of it's schedule. To finish in the top 5 (and get a bye) in the SoCon tournament is probably going to take a 10-6 record. From this point forward, the Spartans would need to go 7-3 to get to that mark. While not impossible, that just doesn't seem likely unless this team starts to play much better basketball. Saturday night UNCG moves up the road to Chattanooga. The Mocs are on a 9 game winning streak and are 7-0 in the SoCon. They just destroyed what I have been voting as the best team in the SoCon by 21 points. So, yea ... I'm a little scared as to what could happen in the "Roundhouse". I'll try to stay optimistic for now, though. 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 !!!
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 !!!
Thursday, January 9, 2014
Defense Propels UNCG to Road Win
UNCG 66 - App State 60
UNCG Athletics
App State Athletics
Halftime: UNCG 29 - App State 30
UNCG Stats
Leader Points: Saddler, Paulos (Tied - 13)
Leader Rebounds: Cain (14)
Leader Assists: Sadler (3)
Team FG: 23-49 (46.9%)
Team 3 Pt: 4-12 (33.3%)
Team FT: 16-25 (64.0%)
Rebounds: 41
Turnovers: 21
App State Stats
Leader Points: Canty (15)
Leader Rebounds: Obacha (7)
Leader Assists: Hamilton, Canty (Tied - 2)
Team FG: 20-58 (34.5%)
Team 3 Pt: 5-17 (29.4%)
Team FT: 15-21 (71.4%)
Rebounds: 34
Turnovers: 14
Thoughts
UNCG had another rough mountain trip in regards to keeping possession of the basketball. 21 turnovers has usually been the downfall of the Spartans this season. However, G played some solid second half defense and continued to dominate the rebounding margin.
The Mountaineers came into this game leading the SoCon in offensive rebounding. However, UNCG's front court held App State 6 boards below its average. Also, the Spartans defense limited App to just 5 made 3-pointers and under 35% shooting for the game. Jay Canty had a solid first half (11 points) but didn't take many shots in the second half and, according the UNCG radio feed, seemed injured throughout the second half. Not sure what the deal was with him.
As for UNCG, it was definitely ugly. That turnover number was extremely high. Probably too high to think that they will many more games being that careless with the ball. However, it was a win. A conference road win, no less. Those are not wins to be taken lightly. So, I'm sure the coaching staff and team would rather watch film of those mistakes after a win.
Now UNCG can take the weekend off and focus on what will be a giant home stand. On Thursday, UNCG will have a chance to go above .500 in the month of January for the first time in what feels like forever. If they can find a way to get past the Citadel, they will get a chance to face off with Davidson in a huge home contest that should see a big crowd and a ton of excitement. Go Spartans !!!
UNCG Athletics
App State Athletics
Halftime: UNCG 29 - App State 30
UNCG Stats
Leader Points: Saddler, Paulos (Tied - 13)
Leader Rebounds: Cain (14)
Leader Assists: Sadler (3)
Team FG: 23-49 (46.9%)
Team 3 Pt: 4-12 (33.3%)
Team FT: 16-25 (64.0%)
Rebounds: 41
Turnovers: 21
App State Stats
Leader Points: Canty (15)
Leader Rebounds: Obacha (7)
Leader Assists: Hamilton, Canty (Tied - 2)
Team FG: 20-58 (34.5%)
Team 3 Pt: 5-17 (29.4%)
Team FT: 15-21 (71.4%)
Rebounds: 34
Turnovers: 14
Thoughts
UNCG had another rough mountain trip in regards to keeping possession of the basketball. 21 turnovers has usually been the downfall of the Spartans this season. However, G played some solid second half defense and continued to dominate the rebounding margin.
The Mountaineers came into this game leading the SoCon in offensive rebounding. However, UNCG's front court held App State 6 boards below its average. Also, the Spartans defense limited App to just 5 made 3-pointers and under 35% shooting for the game. Jay Canty had a solid first half (11 points) but didn't take many shots in the second half and, according the UNCG radio feed, seemed injured throughout the second half. Not sure what the deal was with him.
As for UNCG, it was definitely ugly. That turnover number was extremely high. Probably too high to think that they will many more games being that careless with the ball. However, it was a win. A conference road win, no less. Those are not wins to be taken lightly. So, I'm sure the coaching staff and team would rather watch film of those mistakes after a win.
Now UNCG can take the weekend off and focus on what will be a giant home stand. On Thursday, UNCG will have a chance to go above .500 in the month of January for the first time in what feels like forever. If they can find a way to get past the Citadel, they will get a chance to face off with Davidson in a huge home contest that should see a big crowd and a ton of excitement. Go Spartans !!!
Tuesday, January 7, 2014
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 !!!
Friday, January 3, 2014
Spartans Drop the Ball and SoCon Opener at Western
UNCG 51 - Western Carolina 72
UNCG Athletics
WCU Athletics
Halftime: UNCG 29 - WCU 36
UNCG Stats
Leader Points: Cain (17) Leader Rebounds: Cain, Outlaw (Tied - 7) Leader Assists: Potts (4) Team FG: 17-43 (39.5%)
Team 3 Pt: 2-7 (28.6%)
Team FT: 15-17 (88.2%)
Turnovers: 23
Rebounds: 32
WCU Stats
Leader Points: Sumler (16) Leader Rebounds: King (6) Leader Assists: Brummitt, Sumler, Sinclair (Tied - 3) Team FG: 27-60 (45.0%)
Team 3 Pt: 9-22 (40.9%)
Team FT: 9-13 (69.2%)
Turnovers : 11
Rebounds: 30
Thoughts
Now, let's not throw the baby out with the bath water here. This was just one game. Granted it was an outright ugly loss. But it was on the home floor of one of the better SoCon teams. It's the kind of thing you would expect to see from a very young team playing it's first conference road game against a team with very experienced players. It's the roller coaster of following a team with some many freshmen and sophomores. There are the highs of Viginia Tech and NC State and the lows of a game like this.
Well, certainly we should start with the giant turnovers number. 23 is a ton. Way, way too many. This team needs to keep that number in 11-13 range to legitimately have a chance every night. Tevon Saddler had 9 turnovers alone. When one of your main ballhandlers does that you can kiss any chance of a win goodbye. In listeneing to the game, it sounded like the inside-out game that UNCG has played this seaosn was more of an inside-not out game. In order to defeat good teams, UNCG big men are going to have to kick it back out for shots and the guys need to knock down those shots. 2-7 3 point shooting (versus 9-22 for Western) just isn't going to cut it. G can't be outscored by 21 behind the arc and win many games.
I'm not planning on spending any mroe time worrying about thsi game. It was one of 16 left adn UNCG will have a few more nights like this before the year is over. Time to put it in the rearview and beat Furman. Go Spartans !!!
UNCG Athletics
WCU Athletics
Halftime: UNCG 29 - WCU 36
UNCG Stats
Leader Points: Cain (17) Leader Rebounds: Cain, Outlaw (Tied - 7) Leader Assists: Potts (4) Team FG: 17-43 (39.5%)
Team 3 Pt: 2-7 (28.6%)
Team FT: 15-17 (88.2%)
Turnovers: 23
Rebounds: 32
WCU Stats
Leader Points: Sumler (16) Leader Rebounds: King (6) Leader Assists: Brummitt, Sumler, Sinclair (Tied - 3) Team FG: 27-60 (45.0%)
Team 3 Pt: 9-22 (40.9%)
Team FT: 9-13 (69.2%)
Turnovers : 11
Rebounds: 30
Thoughts
Now, let's not throw the baby out with the bath water here. This was just one game. Granted it was an outright ugly loss. But it was on the home floor of one of the better SoCon teams. It's the kind of thing you would expect to see from a very young team playing it's first conference road game against a team with very experienced players. It's the roller coaster of following a team with some many freshmen and sophomores. There are the highs of Viginia Tech and NC State and the lows of a game like this.
Well, certainly we should start with the giant turnovers number. 23 is a ton. Way, way too many. This team needs to keep that number in 11-13 range to legitimately have a chance every night. Tevon Saddler had 9 turnovers alone. When one of your main ballhandlers does that you can kiss any chance of a win goodbye. In listeneing to the game, it sounded like the inside-out game that UNCG has played this seaosn was more of an inside-not out game. In order to defeat good teams, UNCG big men are going to have to kick it back out for shots and the guys need to knock down those shots. 2-7 3 point shooting (versus 9-22 for Western) just isn't going to cut it. G can't be outscored by 21 behind the arc and win many games.
I'm not planning on spending any mroe time worrying about thsi game. It was one of 16 left adn UNCG will have a few more nights like this before the year is over. Time to put it in the rearview and beat Furman. 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 !!!
Saturday, December 28, 2013
Spartans Stun Hokies in Blacksburg
UNCG 55 - Virginia Tech 52
UNCG Athletics
Va Tech Athletics
Halftime: UNCG 22 - Virginia Tech 22
UNCG Stats
Leader Points: Cain (18)
Leader Rebounds: Cain (10)
Leader Assists: Potts (4)
Team FG: 19-52 (36.0%)
Team 3 Pt: 3-12 (25.0%)
Team FT: 14-16 (87.5%)
Rebounds: 34
Turnovers: 13
Virginia Tech Stats
Leader Points: Wood (14)
Leader Rebounds: Van Zegeren, Wilson (Tied - 7)
Leader Assists: Wilson (6)
Team FG: 18-50 (36.0%)
Team 3 Pt: 3-15 (20.0%)
Team FT: 13-23 (56.5%)
Rebounds: 34
Turnovers: 15
Thoughts
With about 10 minutes left to go in the game, UNCG had played VT tough in an ugly game similar to the one last Saturday at Wake Forest. The Hokies had just went up by 11 and it was looking like one of those moral victory losses. Then something funny happened. UNCG went on a nice little 23-6 run and sent the home fans home completely stunned.
Kyle Cain was the best player on the court today and it really wasn't even close. When the Spartans needed a basket, they dumped it inside and got a nice post move from Cain or Locke. Wes Miller was the better coach on Saturday. He used his timeouts to nurse his team along. He sensed there was a real opportunity and he didn't want to let it get away like it had with the Demon Deacons. He also did a great job of managing the defense on volume scorer Jerell Eddie. With no Tevon Saddler, it fell to Nicholas Paulos, Tyrone Outlaw and defensive stopper Diante Baldwin. Combined they limited Eddie to 4 points on 1-12 shooting.
This is the biggest win for Wes Miller as coach of UNCG. This is the biggest win for the UNCG program in at least 6 years. With the struggles that this program has fallen into, I am willing to call it the biggest win for UNCG other than the 2 wins that got the Spartans into the NCAA Tournament.
Now it all comes down to what happens from here on out. Can UNCG capitalize on this stretch of good play? Can they Carry it over into SoCon play? There is one more ACC game on Monday and then we'll get to find out if this team is ready to win the conference. Go Spartans !!!
UNCG Athletics
Va Tech Athletics
Halftime: UNCG 22 - Virginia Tech 22
UNCG Stats
Leader Points: Cain (18)
Leader Rebounds: Cain (10)
Leader Assists: Potts (4)
Team FG: 19-52 (36.0%)
Team 3 Pt: 3-12 (25.0%)
Team FT: 14-16 (87.5%)
Rebounds: 34
Turnovers: 13
Virginia Tech Stats
Leader Points: Wood (14)
Leader Rebounds: Van Zegeren, Wilson (Tied - 7)
Leader Assists: Wilson (6)
Team FG: 18-50 (36.0%)
Team 3 Pt: 3-15 (20.0%)
Team FT: 13-23 (56.5%)
Rebounds: 34
Turnovers: 15
Thoughts
With about 10 minutes left to go in the game, UNCG had played VT tough in an ugly game similar to the one last Saturday at Wake Forest. The Hokies had just went up by 11 and it was looking like one of those moral victory losses. Then something funny happened. UNCG went on a nice little 23-6 run and sent the home fans home completely stunned.
Kyle Cain was the best player on the court today and it really wasn't even close. When the Spartans needed a basket, they dumped it inside and got a nice post move from Cain or Locke. Wes Miller was the better coach on Saturday. He used his timeouts to nurse his team along. He sensed there was a real opportunity and he didn't want to let it get away like it had with the Demon Deacons. He also did a great job of managing the defense on volume scorer Jerell Eddie. With no Tevon Saddler, it fell to Nicholas Paulos, Tyrone Outlaw and defensive stopper Diante Baldwin. Combined they limited Eddie to 4 points on 1-12 shooting.
This is the biggest win for Wes Miller as coach of UNCG. This is the biggest win for the UNCG program in at least 6 years. With the struggles that this program has fallen into, I am willing to call it the biggest win for UNCG other than the 2 wins that got the Spartans into the NCAA Tournament.
Now it all comes down to what happens from here on out. Can UNCG capitalize on this stretch of good play? Can they Carry it over into SoCon play? There is one more ACC game on Monday and then we'll get to find out if this team is ready to win the conference. Go Spartans !!!
Saturday, December 21, 2013
UNCG Comes Up Short in Winston-Salem
UNCG 51 - Wake Forest 59
UNCG Athletics
Wake Forest Athletics
Halftime: UNCG 22 - Wake Forest 29
UNCG Stats
Leader Points: Cain (16)
Leader Rebounds: Cain (15)
Leader Assists: Parker (3)
Team FG: 19-60 (31.7%)
Team 3 Pt: 1-15 (6.7%)
Team FT: 12-21 (57.1%)
Rebounds: 40
Turnovers: 12
Wake Forest Stats
Leader Points: Cavanaugh, Thomas (Tied - 12)
Leader Rebounds: Thomas (13)
Leader Assists: Jones (2)
Team FG: 22-49 (44.9%)
Team 3 Pt: 2-14 (14.3%)
Team FT: 13-30 (43.3%)
Rebounds: 41
Turnovers: 14
Thoughts
That was an ugly, ugly game. There was a point during the second half where I wondered out loud whether UNCG would reach 40 points or if the two teams would combine to score 100 points total. However, the Spartans fought hard throughout the entire game and battled back after being down by double digits on several occasions. G just couldn't quite get all the way back and eventually ran out of gas and time.
The Demon Deacons definitely helped UNCG stay in the game by missing a ton of free throws, but the Spartans played very solid defense all day long. The team did a great job of covering up Travis McKie and Coron Williams. Other than Cavanaugh no other Deacon even made a 3 point basket.
All-in-all there was a lot to like about this game. Even though the shots weren't failing, the effort and focus was strong and consistent throughout. It was great to see the bench really get into the game and cheer on their teammates. It was also nice to see UNCG do a great job taking care of the ball. This is the second straight game with a low turnover number and it's obvious that UNCG plays better when they value the basketball. Kyle Cain was very good again today and is really on pace for an All-SoCon type season.
Now everyone gets to take some time off to celebrate the holidays. After that, it's another road trip within the ACC. We'll get to that one later in the week though. Until then, I hope everyone has a safe and merry Christmas. Go Spartans !!!
UNCG Athletics
Wake Forest Athletics
Halftime: UNCG 22 - Wake Forest 29
UNCG Stats
Leader Points: Cain (16)
Leader Rebounds: Cain (15)
Leader Assists: Parker (3)
Team FG: 19-60 (31.7%)
Team 3 Pt: 1-15 (6.7%)
Team FT: 12-21 (57.1%)
Rebounds: 40
Turnovers: 12
Wake Forest Stats
Leader Points: Cavanaugh, Thomas (Tied - 12)
Leader Rebounds: Thomas (13)
Leader Assists: Jones (2)
Team FG: 22-49 (44.9%)
Team 3 Pt: 2-14 (14.3%)
Team FT: 13-30 (43.3%)
Rebounds: 41
Turnovers: 14
Thoughts
That was an ugly, ugly game. There was a point during the second half where I wondered out loud whether UNCG would reach 40 points or if the two teams would combine to score 100 points total. However, the Spartans fought hard throughout the entire game and battled back after being down by double digits on several occasions. G just couldn't quite get all the way back and eventually ran out of gas and time.
The Demon Deacons definitely helped UNCG stay in the game by missing a ton of free throws, but the Spartans played very solid defense all day long. The team did a great job of covering up Travis McKie and Coron Williams. Other than Cavanaugh no other Deacon even made a 3 point basket.
All-in-all there was a lot to like about this game. Even though the shots weren't failing, the effort and focus was strong and consistent throughout. It was great to see the bench really get into the game and cheer on their teammates. It was also nice to see UNCG do a great job taking care of the ball. This is the second straight game with a low turnover number and it's obvious that UNCG plays better when they value the basketball. Kyle Cain was very good again today and is really on pace for an All-SoCon type season.
Now everyone gets to take some time off to celebrate the holidays. After that, it's another road trip within the ACC. We'll get to that one later in the week though. Until then, I hope everyone has a safe and merry Christmas. Go Spartans !!!
Thursday, December 19, 2013
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 !!!
Monday, December 16, 2013
First Half Hole Too Deep for Spartans
UNCG 72 - Rutgers 89
UNCG Athletics
Rutgers Athletics
Halftime: UNCG 33 - Rutgers 52
UNCG Stats
Leader Points: Cain (18)
Leader Reboudns: Cain (8)
Leader Assists: Saddler (4)
Team FG: 27-62 (43.5%)
Team 3 Pt: 7-18 (38.9%)
Team FT: 11-17 64.7%)
Rebounds: 37
Turnovers: 18
Rutgers Stats
Leader Points: Mack (21)
Leader Rebounds: Judge (8)
Leader Assists: Mack (8)
Team FG: 31-62 (50.0%)
Team 3 Pt: 9-20 (45.0%)
Team FT: 18-25 (72.0%)
Rebounds: 37
Turnovers: 10
Thoughts
Stop me if you've heard this one before. UNCG starts off a game slow. They turn the ball over leading to layups and open jump shots in transition. Due to all of this, the Spartans found themselves in a hole at halftime. The entire second half they played solid ball, but not nearly solid enough to come back.
Yeah, we've all heard that one before. The Scarlet Knights scored 26 points off of 18 UNCG turnovers (14 first half). When not given easy baskets in the second half, UNCG beat Rutgers by 2. There is the ballgame. It really is just that simple. Now, the UNCG defense wasn't very good most of the night. Ball screens caused all sorts of chaos and the defense was always a few steps behind. But really it was all those first half turnovers.
With so many freshmen and underclassmen on this team, someone needs to embrace the idea of being a defensive stopper. I really think players like Diante Baldwin or Tyrone Outlaw could completely lock people down if they got in the right mindset. Baldwin offered a nice spark off the bench in the second half at Rutgers. I'd look for him to see more court time, especially as the other guards struggle with turnovers.
So, there it is ... less turnovers and better focus on the defensive end. The losses will continue until those points of emphasis get better. Once they improve, Look out. Go Spartans !!!
UNCG Athletics
Rutgers Athletics
Halftime: UNCG 33 - Rutgers 52
UNCG Stats
Leader Points: Cain (18)
Leader Reboudns: Cain (8)
Leader Assists: Saddler (4)
Team FG: 27-62 (43.5%)
Team 3 Pt: 7-18 (38.9%)
Team FT: 11-17 64.7%)
Rebounds: 37
Turnovers: 18
Rutgers Stats
Leader Points: Mack (21)
Leader Rebounds: Judge (8)
Leader Assists: Mack (8)
Team FG: 31-62 (50.0%)
Team 3 Pt: 9-20 (45.0%)
Team FT: 18-25 (72.0%)
Rebounds: 37
Turnovers: 10
Thoughts
Stop me if you've heard this one before. UNCG starts off a game slow. They turn the ball over leading to layups and open jump shots in transition. Due to all of this, the Spartans found themselves in a hole at halftime. The entire second half they played solid ball, but not nearly solid enough to come back.
Yeah, we've all heard that one before. The Scarlet Knights scored 26 points off of 18 UNCG turnovers (14 first half). When not given easy baskets in the second half, UNCG beat Rutgers by 2. There is the ballgame. It really is just that simple. Now, the UNCG defense wasn't very good most of the night. Ball screens caused all sorts of chaos and the defense was always a few steps behind. But really it was all those first half turnovers.
With so many freshmen and underclassmen on this team, someone needs to embrace the idea of being a defensive stopper. I really think players like Diante Baldwin or Tyrone Outlaw could completely lock people down if they got in the right mindset. Baldwin offered a nice spark off the bench in the second half at Rutgers. I'd look for him to see more court time, especially as the other guards struggle with turnovers.
So, there it is ... less turnovers and better focus on the defensive end. The losses will continue until those points of emphasis get better. Once they improve, Look out. Go Spartans !!!
4 Factors - Rutgers
Points Per Possesion
UNCG - 0.94
Rutgers - 1.20
4 Factors
eFG %
UNCG - 49.1
Rutgers - 55.6
TO %
UNCG - 23.6
Rutgers - 13.5
OR %
UNCG - 24.4
Rutgers - 20.4
FT Rate
UNCG - 27.4
Rutgers - 40.3
UNCG - 0.94
Rutgers - 1.20
4 Factors
eFG %
UNCG - 49.1
Rutgers - 55.6
TO %
UNCG - 23.6
Rutgers - 13.5
OR %
UNCG - 24.4
Rutgers - 20.4
FT Rate
UNCG - 27.4
Rutgers - 40.3
Wednesday, December 11, 2013
UNCG Beats Back Claflin
UNCG 75 - Claflin 70
UNCG Athletics
Claflin Athletics
Halftime: UNCG 38 - Claflin 24
UNCG Stats
Leader Points: Locke (25)
Leader Rebounds: Cain (9)
Leader Assists: Potts (5)
Team FG: 27-52 (51.9%)
Team 3 Pt: 4-13 (30.8%)
Team FT: 17-21 (81.0%)
Rebounds: 42
Turnovers: 16
Claflin Stats
Leader Points: Williams (26)
Leader Rebounds: Pellegrino, Curry (Tied - 6)
Leader Assists: Curry (7)
Team FG: 24-65 (36.9%)
Team 3 Pt: 9-21 (42.9%)
Team FT: 13-16 (81.3%)
Rebounds: 28
Turnovers: 5
Thoughts
Well, that was certainly much closer than it really should have been. UNCG had all but put this game away by halftime. The lead was 19 with about a minute to go and all was right with the world. But the second half was just a mess. Not enough energy, or smart plays, or defense. In the end, the Spartans did make some plays down the stretch and did get a couple of crucial stops. They also made some timely free throws and left with a win.
The same old problems keep showing up for G. Not creating turnovers (5) and too many turnovers (16) on their own end. In the first half, the defense forced Claflin to take tough "runners" in the lane over bigger post players. It worked. At halftime, the Panthers were only shooting 20.0%. In the second half, everybody got caught with their hands by their sides and Claflin players happily nailed 3 after 3. Also, the zone defense used by Claflin proved to be very effective against UNCG. The Spartans are young and not always patient. All of these things have got to improve.
On the bright side, Kayel Locke really played strong. He, Kyle Cain and RJ White really did a good job of rebounding the ball and making the close range shots. UNCG is very effective on the offensive end, especially against teams where it matches up better in terms of size. This should be the case on most nights in Southern Conference play. However, for the next few weeks UNCG will find itself of the size deficit against teams from the CAA, AAC and ACC. They will have to play more sound fundamentally to win those games. As for today, it goes down as a win. That works, I guess. Go Spartans !!!
UNCG Athletics
Claflin Athletics
Halftime: UNCG 38 - Claflin 24
UNCG Stats
Leader Points: Locke (25)
Leader Rebounds: Cain (9)
Leader Assists: Potts (5)
Team FG: 27-52 (51.9%)
Team 3 Pt: 4-13 (30.8%)
Team FT: 17-21 (81.0%)
Rebounds: 42
Turnovers: 16
Claflin Stats
Leader Points: Williams (26)
Leader Rebounds: Pellegrino, Curry (Tied - 6)
Leader Assists: Curry (7)
Team FG: 24-65 (36.9%)
Team 3 Pt: 9-21 (42.9%)
Team FT: 13-16 (81.3%)
Rebounds: 28
Turnovers: 5
Thoughts
Well, that was certainly much closer than it really should have been. UNCG had all but put this game away by halftime. The lead was 19 with about a minute to go and all was right with the world. But the second half was just a mess. Not enough energy, or smart plays, or defense. In the end, the Spartans did make some plays down the stretch and did get a couple of crucial stops. They also made some timely free throws and left with a win.
The same old problems keep showing up for G. Not creating turnovers (5) and too many turnovers (16) on their own end. In the first half, the defense forced Claflin to take tough "runners" in the lane over bigger post players. It worked. At halftime, the Panthers were only shooting 20.0%. In the second half, everybody got caught with their hands by their sides and Claflin players happily nailed 3 after 3. Also, the zone defense used by Claflin proved to be very effective against UNCG. The Spartans are young and not always patient. All of these things have got to improve.
On the bright side, Kayel Locke really played strong. He, Kyle Cain and RJ White really did a good job of rebounding the ball and making the close range shots. UNCG is very effective on the offensive end, especially against teams where it matches up better in terms of size. This should be the case on most nights in Southern Conference play. However, for the next few weeks UNCG will find itself of the size deficit against teams from the CAA, AAC and ACC. They will have to play more sound fundamentally to win those games. As for today, it goes down as a win. That works, I guess. Go Spartans !!!
Monday, December 9, 2013
Tar Heels Sprint to Easy Victory
UNCG 50 - UNC 81
UNCG Athletics
UNC Atheltics
Halftime: UNCG 14 - UNC 44
UNCG Stats
Leader Points: Cain, Locke (Tied - 13)
Leader Rebounds: Cain (8)
Leader Assists: Locke, Saddler, Parker, Paulos (Tied - 2)
Team FG: 20-49 (40.8%)
Team 3 Pt: 3-14 (21.4%)
Team FT: 7-13 (53.8%)
Rebounds: 28
Turnovers: 21
UNC Stats
Leader Points: Johnson (14)
Leader Rebounds: Meeks (8)
Leader Assists: Paige (8)
Team FG: 32-66 (48.5%)
Team 3 Pt: 1-6 (16.7%)
Team FT: 16-26 (61.5%)
Rebounds: 46
Turnovers: 13
Thoughts
For the first five minutes and the last 20 minutes, UNCG looked very competitive with a very good UNC team that has beat two top 5 ranked teams. The final 15 minutes of the first half, however, is where UNCG lost the game. The Tar Heels forced the Spartans into a bunch of turnovers that led to easy baskets. They clogged up driving lanes and did pretty much whatever they wanted on the offensive end. Optimistic UNCG fans were wanting to see a little more out of the team, but they looked like a young team in awe of the environment and the name on the front of their opponents jerseys.
On the plus side, I thought UNCG's defense was better than it has been in recent weeks. They came out and played with energy throughout the game. The quick 13-4 run after halftime showed flashes of what this team is really capable of doing in the future. The hole was just too big. Kyle Cain looked good again and it was good to see Kayel Locke play solid. I think he's been pressing too much, but he really looks comfortable on the bigger stages right now (see: NC State last year). I really hope he can get fully back on track coming up soon.
UNCG guards really had a tough time hanging on to the ball again in this game. The 21 turnovers basically were the story of the game. UNC scored 30 points of those turnovers, and won by 31. A lot of teams would turn the ball over against that kind of pressure, but this has been a trend in almost all of the Spartans games. It's something that needs to get corrected before conference play starts next month.
In the end this game was more about the experience than the score. There are some winnable games on the schedule coming up, but UNCG will have to play well. I hope that happens starting on Wednesday afternoon. Go Spartans !!!
UNCG Athletics
UNC Atheltics
Halftime: UNCG 14 - UNC 44
UNCG Stats
Leader Points: Cain, Locke (Tied - 13)
Leader Rebounds: Cain (8)
Leader Assists: Locke, Saddler, Parker, Paulos (Tied - 2)
Team FG: 20-49 (40.8%)
Team 3 Pt: 3-14 (21.4%)
Team FT: 7-13 (53.8%)
Rebounds: 28
Turnovers: 21
UNC Stats
Leader Points: Johnson (14)
Leader Rebounds: Meeks (8)
Leader Assists: Paige (8)
Team FG: 32-66 (48.5%)
Team 3 Pt: 1-6 (16.7%)
Team FT: 16-26 (61.5%)
Rebounds: 46
Turnovers: 13
Thoughts
For the first five minutes and the last 20 minutes, UNCG looked very competitive with a very good UNC team that has beat two top 5 ranked teams. The final 15 minutes of the first half, however, is where UNCG lost the game. The Tar Heels forced the Spartans into a bunch of turnovers that led to easy baskets. They clogged up driving lanes and did pretty much whatever they wanted on the offensive end. Optimistic UNCG fans were wanting to see a little more out of the team, but they looked like a young team in awe of the environment and the name on the front of their opponents jerseys.
On the plus side, I thought UNCG's defense was better than it has been in recent weeks. They came out and played with energy throughout the game. The quick 13-4 run after halftime showed flashes of what this team is really capable of doing in the future. The hole was just too big. Kyle Cain looked good again and it was good to see Kayel Locke play solid. I think he's been pressing too much, but he really looks comfortable on the bigger stages right now (see: NC State last year). I really hope he can get fully back on track coming up soon.
UNCG guards really had a tough time hanging on to the ball again in this game. The 21 turnovers basically were the story of the game. UNC scored 30 points of those turnovers, and won by 31. A lot of teams would turn the ball over against that kind of pressure, but this has been a trend in almost all of the Spartans games. It's something that needs to get corrected before conference play starts next month.
In the end this game was more about the experience than the score. There are some winnable games on the schedule coming up, but UNCG will have to play well. I hope that happens starting on Wednesday afternoon. Go Spartans !!!
Friday, December 6, 2013
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
