Points Per Possesion
UNCG - 0.76
WCU - 1.12
4 Factors
eFG %
UNCG - 41.8
WCU - 52.5
TO %
UNCG - 34.2
WCU - 17.1
OR %
UNCG - 18.9
WCU - 21.9
FT Rate
UNCG - 39.5
WCU - 21.6
Showing posts with label WCU. Show all posts
Showing posts with label WCU. Show all posts
Saturday, January 4, 2014
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 !!!
Wednesday, January 1, 2014
UNCG (7-8) @ Western Carolina (7-8)
When: Thursday, January 2 7:00 pm
Where: Ramsey Center (7,826)
TV: None
Western Carolina Athletics
UNCG Stats
Last Game: NC State (L 64-68) Recap
PPG: 71.6
RPG: 37.4
APG: 13.3
Leader Points: Kyle Cain (15.8)
Leader Rebounds: Kyle Cain (8.6)
Leader Assists: Tevon Saddler (3.3)
FG %: 44.9
3 PT %: 35.5
FT %: 67.6
Western Carolina Stats
Last Game: Milligan (W 106-72) Recap
PPG: 74.5
RPG: 37.2
APG: 12.7
Leader Points: Trey Sumler (19.8)
Leader Rebounds: Trey Sumler (4.6)
Leader Assists: Trey Sumler (4.3)
FG %: 41.8
3 Pt %: 37.0
FT %: 68.2
Thoughts
Things just got real. This isn't about fine tuning things or finding the right combination of players on the court. This isn't about moral victories or asking to see energy for 40 minutes. This is now about getting wins and setting yourself up for that big run in Asheville in March. This is conference play.
For UNCG conference play starts in a play that they haven't won since February of 2008, the Ramsey Center on the campus of Western Carolina. The Spartans have been competitive at WCU, but they have always seemed to come up short. This year will be an equally difficult task. I have consistently ranked the Catamounts in my top 3 every week for "Scanning the SoCon". While they don't have any major wins to boast about, they do come into the game sporting four D1 wins (same as UNCG). They also have one of the very best players in teh SoCon in Trey Sumler. Sumler leads their team in just about every major category and he will be a tough cover for whichever UNCG player draws the assignment. I would expect to see Tevon Saddler attack Sumler when the Spartans have the ball in the hopes of getting him into foul trouble.
If the Spartans are going to be successful on Thursday night, they will need to continue playing very tough defense. They will also need to continue their dominance on the boards. UNCG currently leads the SoCon in rebounding margin. Wes Miller pointed out in his post game comments after NC State that he expected SoCon teams to try some different schemes against UNCG. He noted that these last three ACC teams have decided to use their shear size to match up with UNCG post players and play the defense "straight up". He admitted that he was expecting Locke and Cain to draw double teams in the post. I think how this game plays out will be determined by what teh big guys do when faced with these double teams. Will they be able to find open players and will tose players be able to make plays. Or will our favorite nemesis "Mr. Turnover" show back up. I think if players like Jordan Potts and Nicholas Paulos can make shots to burn the double teams, then UNCG has a real shot to steal a road game from a good ball club. Go Spartans !!!
Where: Ramsey Center (7,826)
TV: None
Western Carolina Athletics
UNCG Stats
Last Game: NC State (L 64-68) Recap
PPG: 71.6
RPG: 37.4
APG: 13.3
Leader Points: Kyle Cain (15.8)
Leader Rebounds: Kyle Cain (8.6)
Leader Assists: Tevon Saddler (3.3)
FG %: 44.9
3 PT %: 35.5
FT %: 67.6
Western Carolina Stats
Last Game: Milligan (W 106-72) Recap
PPG: 74.5
RPG: 37.2
APG: 12.7
Leader Points: Trey Sumler (19.8)
Leader Rebounds: Trey Sumler (4.6)
Leader Assists: Trey Sumler (4.3)
FG %: 41.8
3 Pt %: 37.0
FT %: 68.2
Thoughts
Things just got real. This isn't about fine tuning things or finding the right combination of players on the court. This isn't about moral victories or asking to see energy for 40 minutes. This is now about getting wins and setting yourself up for that big run in Asheville in March. This is conference play.
For UNCG conference play starts in a play that they haven't won since February of 2008, the Ramsey Center on the campus of Western Carolina. The Spartans have been competitive at WCU, but they have always seemed to come up short. This year will be an equally difficult task. I have consistently ranked the Catamounts in my top 3 every week for "Scanning the SoCon". While they don't have any major wins to boast about, they do come into the game sporting four D1 wins (same as UNCG). They also have one of the very best players in teh SoCon in Trey Sumler. Sumler leads their team in just about every major category and he will be a tough cover for whichever UNCG player draws the assignment. I would expect to see Tevon Saddler attack Sumler when the Spartans have the ball in the hopes of getting him into foul trouble.
If the Spartans are going to be successful on Thursday night, they will need to continue playing very tough defense. They will also need to continue their dominance on the boards. UNCG currently leads the SoCon in rebounding margin. Wes Miller pointed out in his post game comments after NC State that he expected SoCon teams to try some different schemes against UNCG. He noted that these last three ACC teams have decided to use their shear size to match up with UNCG post players and play the defense "straight up". He admitted that he was expecting Locke and Cain to draw double teams in the post. I think how this game plays out will be determined by what teh big guys do when faced with these double teams. Will they be able to find open players and will tose players be able to make plays. Or will our favorite nemesis "Mr. Turnover" show back up. I think if players like Jordan Potts and Nicholas Paulos can make shots to burn the double teams, then UNCG has a real shot to steal a road game from a good ball club. Go Spartans !!!
Friday, November 1, 2013
Preseason Preview: Southern Conference
On the eve of UNCG's first game (exhibition against Lees-McRae), it' time to look at the teams of the Southern Conference. My buddy John over at MocsMania has been doing one preview a day written by all of us that contribute to his "Scanning the SoCon" weekly Q&A series. I have decided that as opposed to doing a cookie cutter preview of the whole SoCon, I would post individual links to each of those previews. I am also going to post the preview that I wrote for UNCG in its entirety. Some of the things that John asked us to look at in our previews were schedules, new players and best/worst case scenarios for our teams.
Appalachian State
Chattanooga
The Citadel
Davidson
Elon
Furman
Georgia Southern
Samford
Western Carolina
Wofford
Appalachian State
There's a solid core of six guys right now (Burgess, Neal, Hamilton, Canty, Baskin and Obacha) who will start and probably will be joined by Kobani and the remaining sixth-man guard is up for grabs to make the eight-man rotation. As far as a season overview, App has a really solid chance to finish high up in this conference. Anything less would be a disappointment.
Chattanooga
The conference schedule features just one game against league favorites, Davidson and Elon. It also features just one game against the bottom two in the preseason polls, Georgia Southern and The Citadel. So the conference schedule basically balances out. There are trips to Furman and The Citadel to open SoCon schedule, and home dates with Samford and Wofford. If everything works out, there is a chance for a really fast start in SoCon play.
The Citadel
Clearly, the increase in non-D1 scheduling is partly about trying to fill out a home schedule as a low-major, with the reduction of the SoCon's league schedule to 16 games probably a factor. I do wonder, though, if the conference is trying to "game" the RPI to a certain extent.
Davidson
NCAA rule changes to protect the ball-handler and help the scoring should benefit the Wildcats. They led the nation in free throw shooting last season at 79.5% and should be excellent free throw shooters again.
Elon
With all five starters returning from last year’s squad, Elon has a terrific opportunity to unseat the two-time defending Southern Conference champion Davidson Wildcats.
Furman
The Paladins are a team that is hard to figure, but they are likely better than UNCG, The Citadel and Georgia Southern on paper heading into the season. Look for Furman to start putting things together come March, and though a conference tournament title might be several years away, I wouldn't be shocked if Furman won a game in Asheville once again this season.
Georgia Southern
The two best players on the roster will be redshirting this year and the best player on the floor hasn’t played a game in 2 years. Most likely all 4 signess will see major minutes this year and outside of Dunnican at 6’8 nobody on the roster is over 6’7.
Samford
The much anticipated return game with Kentucky (2 for 1) did not materialize. Apparently the fine print in the contract said "Kentucky State", not University of Kentucky. The out of conference schedule includes (among others) Indiana, Florida Gulf Coast, ETSU and Marquette away and Austin Peay at home.
Western Carolina
Under ninth year head coach Larry Hunter, the Catamounts return five seniors to this years team – Brandon Boggs (guard), Tawaski King (forward), Josh Mendenhall (forward), Trey Sumler (guard) and Tom Tankelewicz (guard). This group of seniors is expected to provide the veteran leadership that was lacking from last season’s team, void of any seniors.
Wofford
The key for the Terriers will be finding more offensive production. A year ago Karl Cochran took about 40% of the teams shots, and was not a particularly great shooter. They need to find a way to create more open looks for Cochran so that his shooting percentage can go up.
Monday, February 18, 2013
Wednesday, January 16, 2013
Spartans Have a Rough Mountain Trip
Sorry for the lack of updates. I've been out of town with limited chances to blog. I also Didn't get to see any of the games. So, I will submit the stats without comment.
UNCG 59 - Western Carolina 62
UNCG Athletics
WCU Athletics
UNCG Stats
Leader Points: Derrell Armstrong (25)
Leader Rebounds: David Williams (6)
Leader Assists: Potts, McNeil (Tied - 2)
Team FG: 20-56 (35.7%)
Team 3 Pt: 6-20 (30.0%)
Team FT: 13-22 (59.1%)
Rebounds: 35
Turnovers: 15
Western Carolina Stats
Leader Points: Trey Sumler (17)
Leader Rebounds: James Sinclair (8)
Leader Assists: Trey Sumler (2)
Team FG: 15-47 (31.9%)
Team 3 PT: 1-13 (7.7%)
Team FT: 31-38 (81.6%)
Rebounds: 41
Turnovers: 15
UNCG 70 - App State 83
UNCG Athletics
App State Athletics
UNCG Stats
Leader Points: Trevis Simpson (22)
Leader Rebounds: Derrell Armstrong (7)
Leader Assists: Parker, Simpson (Tied - 2)
Team FG: 23-54 (42.6%)
Team 3 PT: 6-19 (31.6%)
Team FT: 18-26 (69.2%)
Rebounds: 34
Turnovers: 14
App State Stats
Leader Points: Nathan Healy (24)
Leader Rebounds: Healy, Canty (Tied - 9)
Leader Assists: Jay Canty (4)
Team FG: 25-57 (43,9%)
Team 3 Pt: 5-15 (33.3%)
Team FT: 28-34 (82.4%)
Rebounds: 35
Turnovers: 9
UNCG 59 - Western Carolina 62
UNCG Athletics
WCU Athletics
UNCG Stats
Leader Points: Derrell Armstrong (25)
Leader Rebounds: David Williams (6)
Leader Assists: Potts, McNeil (Tied - 2)
Team FG: 20-56 (35.7%)
Team 3 Pt: 6-20 (30.0%)
Team FT: 13-22 (59.1%)
Rebounds: 35
Turnovers: 15
Western Carolina Stats
Leader Points: Trey Sumler (17)
Leader Rebounds: James Sinclair (8)
Leader Assists: Trey Sumler (2)
Team FG: 15-47 (31.9%)
Team 3 PT: 1-13 (7.7%)
Team FT: 31-38 (81.6%)
Rebounds: 41
Turnovers: 15
UNCG 70 - App State 83
UNCG Athletics
App State Athletics
UNCG Stats
Leader Points: Trevis Simpson (22)
Leader Rebounds: Derrell Armstrong (7)
Leader Assists: Parker, Simpson (Tied - 2)
Team FG: 23-54 (42.6%)
Team 3 PT: 6-19 (31.6%)
Team FT: 18-26 (69.2%)
Rebounds: 34
Turnovers: 14
App State Stats
Leader Points: Nathan Healy (24)
Leader Rebounds: Healy, Canty (Tied - 9)
Leader Assists: Jay Canty (4)
Team FG: 25-57 (43,9%)
Team 3 Pt: 5-15 (33.3%)
Team FT: 28-34 (82.4%)
Rebounds: 35
Turnovers: 9
Monday, March 5, 2012
Hot Catamounts End UNCG Run
UNCG 77 - WCU 82
Asheville Citizen-Times
News & Record
UNCG Athletics
Western Carolina Athletics
Halftime UNCG 37 - WCU 42
UNCG Stats
Leader Points: Trevis Simpson (24)
Leader Rebounds: Derrell Armstrong (7)
Leader Assists: Derrell Armstrong (4)
Team FG: 28-60 (46.7%)
Team 3 Pt: 8-19 (42.1%)
Team FT: 13-14 (92.9%)
Rebounds: 30
Turnovers: 13
WCU Stats
Leader Points: Cole, Mutombo (17 tie)
Leader Rebounds: Trey Sumler (8)
Leader Assists: Trey Sumler (5)
Team FG: 29-62 (46.8%)
Team 3 Pt: 10-21 (47.6%)
Team FT: 14-19 (73.3%)
Rebounds: 36
Turnovers: 13
Thoughts
The last 5 minutes of the first half gave Western Carolina all of the margin they would need. After that, it was all about surviving every run that UNCG threw at them. That was a great game in a fun environment. I totally expected the Cats to get tired and eventually fade. It never happened.
Western Carolina deserves a lot of credit. They were the better team on Sunday night. I will absolutely be rooting against them in the championship game due to their fans being obnoxious assholes. I'll get to more of that in my trip wrap-up post sometime later this week.
For now, I'm just sad to see what had become a fun 2012-2012 season come to an end. The last 2+ months have been an enjoyable ride. I am already ready for next season.
Asheville Citizen-Times
News & Record
UNCG Athletics
Western Carolina Athletics
Halftime UNCG 37 - WCU 42
UNCG Stats
Leader Points: Trevis Simpson (24)
Leader Rebounds: Derrell Armstrong (7)
Leader Assists: Derrell Armstrong (4)
Team FG: 28-60 (46.7%)
Team 3 Pt: 8-19 (42.1%)
Team FT: 13-14 (92.9%)
Rebounds: 30
Turnovers: 13
WCU Stats
Leader Points: Cole, Mutombo (17 tie)
Leader Rebounds: Trey Sumler (8)
Leader Assists: Trey Sumler (5)
Team FG: 29-62 (46.8%)
Team 3 Pt: 10-21 (47.6%)
Team FT: 14-19 (73.3%)
Rebounds: 36
Turnovers: 13
Thoughts
The last 5 minutes of the first half gave Western Carolina all of the margin they would need. After that, it was all about surviving every run that UNCG threw at them. That was a great game in a fun environment. I totally expected the Cats to get tired and eventually fade. It never happened.
Western Carolina deserves a lot of credit. They were the better team on Sunday night. I will absolutely be rooting against them in the championship game due to their fans being obnoxious assholes. I'll get to more of that in my trip wrap-up post sometime later this week.
For now, I'm just sad to see what had become a fun 2012-2012 season come to an end. The last 2+ months have been an enjoyable ride. I am already ready for next season.
Thursday, March 1, 2012
6S Citadel (6-23) - 3N Western Carolina (14-17)
When: Friday, March 2 2pm
Where US Cellular Arena (7,654)
TV: None/SoCon TV
Citadel Athletics
Western Carolina Athletics
2/16 Citadel 53 @ WCU 70 Recap - Recap
Citadel Stats
Last Game: Charleston (L 47-55) Recap
PPG: 64.4
RPG: 32.8
APG: 13.4
Leader Points: Mike Groselle (16.6)
Leader Rebounds: Mike Groselle (9.7)
Leader Assists: DeVontae Wright (2.7)
FG %: 43.5
3 PT %: 33.3
FT %: 66.5
Western Carolina
Last Game: App State (W 83-75) Recap
PPG: 70.3
RPG: 35.5
APG: 10.8
Leader Points: Harouna Mutmobo (13.3)
Leader Rebounds: Harouna Mutombo (5.9)
Leader Assists: Trey Sumler (4.0)
FG %: 41.7
3 Pt %: 33.8
FT %: 68.6
My Pick
I'll take Western, but they should be on upset alert. I think all 4 Firday games will be close. 67-64 OT.
Where US Cellular Arena (7,654)
TV: None/SoCon TV
Citadel Athletics
Western Carolina Athletics
2/16 Citadel 53 @ WCU 70 Recap - Recap
Citadel Stats
Last Game: Charleston (L 47-55) Recap
PPG: 64.4
RPG: 32.8
APG: 13.4
Leader Points: Mike Groselle (16.6)
Leader Rebounds: Mike Groselle (9.7)
Leader Assists: DeVontae Wright (2.7)
FG %: 43.5
3 PT %: 33.3
FT %: 66.5
Western Carolina
Last Game: App State (W 83-75) Recap
PPG: 70.3
RPG: 35.5
APG: 10.8
Leader Points: Harouna Mutmobo (13.3)
Leader Rebounds: Harouna Mutombo (5.9)
Leader Assists: Trey Sumler (4.0)
FG %: 41.7
3 Pt %: 33.8
FT %: 68.6
My Pick
I'll take Western, but they should be on upset alert. I think all 4 Firday games will be close. 67-64 OT.
Monday, February 13, 2012
Blog Updates
Hey guys ... Just thought I'd point out a few other SoCon related blogs that I think everyone should definitely bookmark and go read. I link to most of these below, but I thought I would just make a post to remind everyone that there are a lot of great conference related sites around.
Obviously, I talk about UTC fan Jon's site MocsMania. However, another UTC fan has decided to start making posts again at what used to be one of my favorite sites ... SoConFans. This site should be a must read for UNCG fans right now as we are in the race for a division title. That site always has an updated version of "If it ended today ..." pairings for the SoCon Tournament.
Another very good site is the Western Carolina blog Purple & Gold. While it's not a basketball only site, it's definitely a basketball heavy site at this time of the year.
From the other division of the conference are two very good low country related sites. There's the Citadel geared Sports Arsenal and the Charleston site King Kresse. The Charleston site will be a good read this week for G fans.
Also, let's not forget to mention again the UNCG Sports Blog.
Obviously, I talk about UTC fan Jon's site MocsMania. However, another UTC fan has decided to start making posts again at what used to be one of my favorite sites ... SoConFans. This site should be a must read for UNCG fans right now as we are in the race for a division title. That site always has an updated version of "If it ended today ..." pairings for the SoCon Tournament.
Another very good site is the Western Carolina blog Purple & Gold. While it's not a basketball only site, it's definitely a basketball heavy site at this time of the year.
From the other division of the conference are two very good low country related sites. There's the Citadel geared Sports Arsenal and the Charleston site King Kresse. The Charleston site will be a good read this week for G fans.
Also, let's not forget to mention again the UNCG Sports Blog.
Monday, January 30, 2012
Sunday, January 29, 2012
Saturday, January 28, 2012
UNCG Wins Another Overtime Thriller
UNCG 89 - Western Carolina 86 OT
News & Record
UNCG Athletics
Western Carolina Athletics
Halftime: UNCG 41 - WCU 31
UNCG Stats
Leader Points: Trevis Simpson (26)
Leader Rebounds: David Williams (18)
Leader Assists: Derrell Armstrong (4)
Team FG: 26-56 (46.4%)
Team 3 Pt: 7-18 (38.9%)
Team FT: 30-37 (81.1%)
Rebounds: 43
Turnovers: 21
Western Carolina Stats
Leader Points: Trey Sumler (22)
Leader Rebounds: Tawaski King (11)
Leader Assists: King, Sumler, Keaton Cole (2 tied)
Team FG: 26-73 (35.6%)
Team 3 Pt: 9-27 (33.3%)
Team FT: 25-33 (75.8%)
Rebounds: 43
Turnovers: 16
Thoughts
The Spartans again had trouble closing out an opponent in regulation only to take a fast least again in overtime and hold on during another come back attempt.
This time, a questionable foul call allowed the Catamounts to shoot 3 free throws with under 2 seconds to tie the game up. While I do think the call was a big bailout call for the Western player, UNCG has to not challenge that shot to the point of being in position to have it called in the first place.
It was still great to see UNCG shrug off that disappointment and thrive in another overtime session. Trevis Simpson (26 pts & 5 rebs) and Derrell Armstrong (23 pts, 6 rebs & 4 assists) had another outstanding performance, it was David Williams' 18 rebounds that really helped UNCG down the stretch in regulation and overtime.
UNCG has now swept 3 straight weekend doubleheaders to move from last to first in Southern Conference North Division. It's unfortunate that 3 of their 4 conference losses came before December 6. However, with almost half of the conference season left to come, the Spartans will have to continue their winning ways to pick up a tournament bye.
News & Record
UNCG Athletics
Western Carolina Athletics
Halftime: UNCG 41 - WCU 31
UNCG Stats
Leader Points: Trevis Simpson (26)
Leader Rebounds: David Williams (18)
Leader Assists: Derrell Armstrong (4)
Team FG: 26-56 (46.4%)
Team 3 Pt: 7-18 (38.9%)
Team FT: 30-37 (81.1%)
Rebounds: 43
Turnovers: 21
Western Carolina Stats
Leader Points: Trey Sumler (22)
Leader Rebounds: Tawaski King (11)
Leader Assists: King, Sumler, Keaton Cole (2 tied)
Team FG: 26-73 (35.6%)
Team 3 Pt: 9-27 (33.3%)
Team FT: 25-33 (75.8%)
Rebounds: 43
Turnovers: 16
Thoughts
The Spartans again had trouble closing out an opponent in regulation only to take a fast least again in overtime and hold on during another come back attempt.
This time, a questionable foul call allowed the Catamounts to shoot 3 free throws with under 2 seconds to tie the game up. While I do think the call was a big bailout call for the Western player, UNCG has to not challenge that shot to the point of being in position to have it called in the first place.
It was still great to see UNCG shrug off that disappointment and thrive in another overtime session. Trevis Simpson (26 pts & 5 rebs) and Derrell Armstrong (23 pts, 6 rebs & 4 assists) had another outstanding performance, it was David Williams' 18 rebounds that really helped UNCG down the stretch in regulation and overtime.
UNCG has now swept 3 straight weekend doubleheaders to move from last to first in Southern Conference North Division. It's unfortunate that 3 of their 4 conference losses came before December 6. However, with almost half of the conference season left to come, the Spartans will have to continue their winning ways to pick up a tournament bye.
Western Carolina (9-12) @ UNCG (7-14)
When: Saturday, January 28 2 pm
Where: Greensboro Coliseum (7,617/23,500)
TV: None/Spartan All-Access
Western Carolina Athletics
Preseason Preview
12/3 UNCG 69 @ WCU 73 Recap
UNCG Stats
Last Game: Appalachian State (W 77-73 OT) Recap
PPG: 66.8
RPG: 35.1
APG: 11.4
Leader Points: Trevis Simpson (16.2)
Leader Rebounds: Aaron Brackett (4.8)
Leader Assists: Drew Parker (2.5)
FG %: 38.9
3 Pt %: 32.3
FT %: 64.6
Western Carolina Stats
Last Game: Elon (L 63-71) Recap
PPG: 69.4
RPG: 35.3
APG: 10.8
Leader Points: Harouna Mutombo (13.3)
Leader Rebounds: Harouna Mutombo (6.0)
Leader Assists: Trey Sumler (3.9)
FG %: 42.2
3 Pt %: 32.9
FT %: 68.5
Thoughts
UNCG has done a great job of getting themselves into position to make a run at a tournament bye or even a division title. The guys weathered a very rough beginning to the season. However, to really compete for that division title, the Spartans have to continue to win. Victories are especially important when the games are against teams in the North division.
While UNCG and WCU are playing on Saturday, Elon and App State will be competing in Burlington. In order to keep pace with the Pheonix, the Spartans have to find a way to pick up another "W". A Mountaineers win coupled with a Spartans victory would put UNCG alone in first place for the first time in a very long time.
The story for today's game is much the same as the one from Thursday night. UNCG played Western Carolina almost 2 months ago. So much has changed since then that it might as well have been last season. The Spartans are playing with a different attitude and a different style of offense. Added to that is the new found strength of the UNCG bench. Derrell Armstrong has been on a tear over the past three games. In order to beat the Catamounts, he will have to continue his great play.
Western Carolina will play their methodical "Princeton style" offense. It will require UNCG to stay focused on the defensive end and to not get frustrated and impatient. This could translate into poor shots on the offensive end.
I'm thinking the strong performance on Thursday night will lead to a very nice home crowd again today. It's nice to see such enthusiasm building up around the program. I hope the team continues to stay hungry and play hard. Go Spartans !!!
Where: Greensboro Coliseum (7,617/23,500)
TV: None/Spartan All-Access
Western Carolina Athletics
Preseason Preview
12/3 UNCG 69 @ WCU 73 Recap
UNCG Stats
Last Game: Appalachian State (W 77-73 OT) Recap
PPG: 66.8
RPG: 35.1
APG: 11.4
Leader Points: Trevis Simpson (16.2)
Leader Rebounds: Aaron Brackett (4.8)
Leader Assists: Drew Parker (2.5)
FG %: 38.9
3 Pt %: 32.3
FT %: 64.6
Western Carolina Stats
Last Game: Elon (L 63-71) Recap
PPG: 69.4
RPG: 35.3
APG: 10.8
Leader Points: Harouna Mutombo (13.3)
Leader Rebounds: Harouna Mutombo (6.0)
Leader Assists: Trey Sumler (3.9)
FG %: 42.2
3 Pt %: 32.9
FT %: 68.5
Thoughts
UNCG has done a great job of getting themselves into position to make a run at a tournament bye or even a division title. The guys weathered a very rough beginning to the season. However, to really compete for that division title, the Spartans have to continue to win. Victories are especially important when the games are against teams in the North division.
While UNCG and WCU are playing on Saturday, Elon and App State will be competing in Burlington. In order to keep pace with the Pheonix, the Spartans have to find a way to pick up another "W". A Mountaineers win coupled with a Spartans victory would put UNCG alone in first place for the first time in a very long time.
The story for today's game is much the same as the one from Thursday night. UNCG played Western Carolina almost 2 months ago. So much has changed since then that it might as well have been last season. The Spartans are playing with a different attitude and a different style of offense. Added to that is the new found strength of the UNCG bench. Derrell Armstrong has been on a tear over the past three games. In order to beat the Catamounts, he will have to continue his great play.
Western Carolina will play their methodical "Princeton style" offense. It will require UNCG to stay focused on the defensive end and to not get frustrated and impatient. This could translate into poor shots on the offensive end.
I'm thinking the strong performance on Thursday night will lead to a very nice home crowd again today. It's nice to see such enthusiasm building up around the program. I hope the team continues to stay hungry and play hard. Go Spartans !!!
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
What's Next Western, Youth YMCA Teams?
Western Carolina defeated Toccoa Falls 141-39 last night. Here is a recap of the game. Toccoa Falls College is a "fully accredited, Christian liberal arts, bible college, located in Toccoa, Georgia." The Eagles (3-6) are a member NCCAA (National Christian College Athletics Association).
The Catamounts jumped on TCC 72-17 by halftime and eased up on them the second half. Nine (that's right, nine) WCU players scored in double figures. Trey Sumler led Western with 18 points in 18 minutes of playing time. Two of the three WCU players that didn't score in double figures were starters. The margin of victory is the 3rd highest ever in D1 basketball (if that is what we are calling this).
While these are some tremendous statistics, Western Carolina should be ashamed of themselves. Why in the world were they even playing this game? For the record, this is WCU's second game against a non-D1 school. Earlier this season, the Catamount defeated Montreat College 109-63. But for this game, who gained anything from it? It didn't boost attendance (1, 431). It isn't an early season game to get your team some traction. Even the press WCU is receiving from winning by 100+ isn't all good. Some outlets are questioning their sportsmanship (and with good reason).
This past week, the Charleston Post & Courier printed a story discussing with the commissioner some steps the SoCon could take become a real mid-major conference like the CAA. If the P&C had waited a week, Western would have served their point on a silver platter.
The Catamounts jumped on TCC 72-17 by halftime and eased up on them the second half. Nine (that's right, nine) WCU players scored in double figures. Trey Sumler led Western with 18 points in 18 minutes of playing time. Two of the three WCU players that didn't score in double figures were starters. The margin of victory is the 3rd highest ever in D1 basketball (if that is what we are calling this).
While these are some tremendous statistics, Western Carolina should be ashamed of themselves. Why in the world were they even playing this game? For the record, this is WCU's second game against a non-D1 school. Earlier this season, the Catamount defeated Montreat College 109-63. But for this game, who gained anything from it? It didn't boost attendance (1, 431). It isn't an early season game to get your team some traction. Even the press WCU is receiving from winning by 100+ isn't all good. Some outlets are questioning their sportsmanship (and with good reason).
This past week, the Charleston Post & Courier printed a story discussing with the commissioner some steps the SoCon could take become a real mid-major conference like the CAA. If the P&C had waited a week, Western would have served their point on a silver platter.
On the other hand, SoCon teams have played 20 games against non-Division I teams, dotting schedules with mystery teams such as Warren Wilson, Lindsey Wilson, Spalding and Virginia-Wise, an NAIA team that's played three SoCon squads this season.
The CAA? It's 12 teams have played just one game against a lower-division squad.
CAA programs must ask the league for a waiver to schedule any non-Division I squad. In the SoCon, teams must request a waiver only if they play more than two lower division teams.
"We've talked about scheduling issues and how that impacts the RPI rankings," Iamarino said. "But we've not gotten to the point where we have created a mandatory format. I don't personally think that's in the best interest
of each program."
But Iamarino does review each team's schedule, and said teams expected to contend are encouraged to "schedule up and put some good non-conference opponents on there." Conversely, a schedule with three or four lower-division opponents draws scrutiny from the league office.
"With one program this year, I had a long conversation with their athletic director about it," said Iamarino, who declined to name the team. "I just felt it was an upper echelon program that was not testing itself sufficiently."
I'm guessing the school he declined to name was west of Greensboro.
This past week's installment of Scanning the SoCon asked the panel's opinion about that specific article and the responses were very similar. Here are the Davidson and Chattanooga blogger's responses ...This article from the Post and Courier talks about things the SoCon needs to do to improve. What do you think the Commissioner needs to do to help improve the conference?
DavidsonCats- Conference teams currently need to request a waiver to play more than two non-D1s. I'd like to see this changed. How about this-- you can play one non-D1. If you want to play a second one, you submit a request for a waiver and a check for $100,000 to be divided among the schools who schedule zero non-D1 teams. The commish keeps the check, but only grants the waiver if he can't find you a D1 game. What that would mean is that no school would request the waiver. They'd find D1 opponents, even if it meant playing other Southern Conference teams, or just leave a game off of the schedule.
MocsMania- Personally, I think the commissioner needs to help with the scheduling- namely two sets of conference challenges (how about the Big South and the OVC?) and each team plays at home in one, and on the road in the other during the season. Then, the following year, they play return trips. (I stole that one from ChattanoogaMocs on the MocFans message board.) I also think that requiring teams to play in the BracketBuster (with a return trip the following year) will be huge. That would be four games each year out of conference right there. Put those on the Mocs schedule this year, and they would not have had to play a single non-D1. Same is true for everyone else in the conference. But, there also needs to be an influx of money spent on basketball to up recruiting budgets and to hire better coaching staffs. I don't know where that influx of money comes from. But that is where the biggest deal will be.
In the end, I guess I'll say congratulations to Western Carolina while informing them that my nephew's 6th grade Upward Bound team already has a full schedule for this season (just in case they were wondering).
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
SoCon Standings
Just wanted to give a quick update on the SoCon standings as everyone now gets back into conference play.
North
1. Elon (2-0)
Wins: Furman, @ UNCG
1. Western Carolina 2-0
Wins: Samford, UNCG,
3. App State (1-1)
Wins: UNCG
Losses: @ Ga Southern
4. Samford (0-1)
Losses: WCU
5. Chattanooga (0-2)
Losses: @ Ga Southern, @ Charleston
6. UNCG (0-3)
Losses: @ App State, @ WCU, Elon
South
1. Charleston (2-0)
Wins: Chattanooga, Citadel
1. Davidson (2-0)
Wins: @ Wofford, Furman
1. Ga Southern (2-0)
Wins: Chattanooga, App State
4. Wofford (1-1)
Wins: Citadel
Losses: Davidson
5. Furman (0-2)
Losses:@ Davidson, @ Elon
6. Citadel (0-2)
Losses: @ Charleston, @ Wofford
North
1. Elon (2-0)
Wins: Furman, @ UNCG
1. Western Carolina 2-0
Wins: Samford, UNCG,
3. App State (1-1)
Wins: UNCG
Losses: @ Ga Southern
4. Samford (0-1)
Losses: WCU
5. Chattanooga (0-2)
Losses: @ Ga Southern, @ Charleston
6. UNCG (0-3)
Losses: @ App State, @ WCU, Elon
South
1. Charleston (2-0)
Wins: Chattanooga, Citadel
1. Davidson (2-0)
Wins: @ Wofford, Furman
1. Ga Southern (2-0)
Wins: Chattanooga, App State
4. Wofford (1-1)
Wins: Citadel
Losses: Davidson
5. Furman (0-2)
Losses:@ Davidson, @ Elon
6. Citadel (0-2)
Losses: @ Charleston, @ Wofford
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
SoCon League Preview - WCU
Western Carolina
Last year: 18-15 (12-6)
Finish: Tied 1st North Division
Postseason: None
Last 10: 8-2
Coach: Larry Hunter (7th yr)
OOC Games:
@ South Carolina, Montreat, @ Presbyterian, @ Iowa State, @ Northern Iowa, Northern Colorado, @ Purdue, Kent State, @ Bradley, UNC-Asheville, @ NC State
Additions:
- 6'-8" F Josh Mendenhall - JUCO (Greenville, SC) 8.3 pts, 6.0 rebs
- 5'-11" G Dillion Dunford - Lenior-Rhyne Transfer (Cullowhee, NC)
- 6'-2" SG James Sinclair - ESPN Unrated (Savannah, GA)
- 6'-7" SF Kenneth Hall - ESPN Unrated (Dallas, TX)
Losses:
- Mike Williams (Graduated) 15.4 pts, 3.5 rebs, 3.8 assists, 2.0 steals
- Richie Gordon (Graduated) 10.2 pts, 5.7 rebs, 1.4 assists, 1.5 steals
- Blake Gallagher (Graduated) 1.6 pts, 2.6 rebs
- Anthony Phillip (Graduated) 1.2 pts, 0.7 rebs (6 games)
Top Returners:
- Trey Sumler - 11.5 pts, 4.0 rebs, 3.0 assists, 1.1 steals
- Harouna Mutombo - 10.1 pts, 5.6 rebs, 1.8 assists, 1.1 steals
- Brandon Boggs - 7.7 pts, 3.7 rebs, 1.0 steals
Last year: 18-15 (12-6)
Finish: Tied 1st North Division
Postseason: None
Last 10: 8-2
Coach: Larry Hunter (7th yr)
OOC Games:
@ South Carolina, Montreat, @ Presbyterian, @ Iowa State, @ Northern Iowa, Northern Colorado, @ Purdue, Kent State, @ Bradley, UNC-Asheville, @ NC State
Additions:
- 6'-8" F Josh Mendenhall - JUCO (Greenville, SC) 8.3 pts, 6.0 rebs
- 5'-11" G Dillion Dunford - Lenior-Rhyne Transfer (Cullowhee, NC)
- 6'-2" SG James Sinclair - ESPN Unrated (Savannah, GA)
- 6'-7" SF Kenneth Hall - ESPN Unrated (Dallas, TX)
Losses:
- Mike Williams (Graduated) 15.4 pts, 3.5 rebs, 3.8 assists, 2.0 steals
- Richie Gordon (Graduated) 10.2 pts, 5.7 rebs, 1.4 assists, 1.5 steals
- Blake Gallagher (Graduated) 1.6 pts, 2.6 rebs
- Anthony Phillip (Graduated) 1.2 pts, 0.7 rebs (6 games)
Top Returners:
- Trey Sumler - 11.5 pts, 4.0 rebs, 3.0 assists, 1.1 steals
- Harouna Mutombo - 10.1 pts, 5.6 rebs, 1.8 assists, 1.1 steals
- Brandon Boggs - 7.7 pts, 3.7 rebs, 1.0 steals
Monday, April 25, 2011
Rest of the Season
UNCG 78 - App State 80 (OT)
News & Record
UNCG Athletics
UNCG 73 - Western Carolina 83
News & Record
UNCG Athletics
UNCG 86 - Citadel 74
News & Record
UNCG Athletics
UNCG 69 - Charleston 87
News & Record
UNCG Athletics
UNCG 58 - Miami 78
News & Record
UNCG Athletics
UNCG 90 - Elon 99
News & Record
UNCG Athletics
UNCG 66 - Western Carolina 70
News & Record
UNCG Athetics
UNCG 57 - Ga Southern 56
News & Record
UNCG Athletics
UNCG 67 - Davidson 78
News & Record
UNCG Athletics
UNCG 71 - Davidson 64*
* - SoCon Tournament 1st round
News & Record
UNCG Athletics
UNCG 66 - Western Carolina 77^
^ - SoCon Tournament Quarterfinals
News & Record
UNCG Athletics
News & Record
UNCG Athletics
UNCG 73 - Western Carolina 83
News & Record
UNCG Athletics
UNCG 86 - Citadel 74
News & Record
UNCG Athletics
UNCG 69 - Charleston 87
News & Record
UNCG Athletics
UNCG 58 - Miami 78
News & Record
UNCG Athletics
UNCG 90 - Elon 99
News & Record
UNCG Athletics
UNCG 66 - Western Carolina 70
News & Record
UNCG Athetics
UNCG 57 - Ga Southern 56
News & Record
UNCG Athletics
UNCG 67 - Davidson 78
News & Record
UNCG Athletics
UNCG 71 - Davidson 64*
* - SoCon Tournament 1st round
News & Record
UNCG Athletics
UNCG 66 - Western Carolina 77^
^ - SoCon Tournament Quarterfinals
News & Record
UNCG Athletics
Saturday, March 6, 2010
#4N UNCG (8-22) vs #1S Wofford (23-8)
When: Saturday, March 6 4:30 pm*
Where: Bojangles Coliseum (9,605)
TV: None/SoConTV.com
* This game is scheduled to start approximately 30 minutes after the conclusion of the Western Carolina-Elon game. That game will tip at 2 pm.
- The winner of today's game will advance to take on the winner of the 2 pm at approximately 6 pm tomorrow at Time Warner Cable Arena.
Wofford Athletics
Wofford Forum
Spartan Notes:
- Yesterday, UNCG got the benefit of a mistake by Furman's Amu Saaka. Saaka went for a 2 point basket when the Paladins needed a 3 pointer to tie. Even though he made the basket, the Spartans won 66-65.
-The Spartans have now won 2 games in a row and 3 of their last 4 games.
- The Spartan lost both contests to Wofford this season.
- Ben Stywall leads UNCG in scoring (14.2) and rebounding (10.4) . Kyle Randall leads the team in assists (2.6).
- For the year, UNCG is shooting 38.8% from the field, 29.2% from behind the arc and 69.4% from the free throw line.
Terrier Notes:
- Last time out, Wofford lead all the way en route to a win over Citadel, 75-66. Noah Dahlman lead Wofford with 18 points.
- Dahlman was named Southern Conference Player of the Year by the coaches. Wofford coach Mike Young was named Coach of the Year by the media and the coaches.
Wofford will get the SoCon automatic bid to the NIT should they not win the conference tournament.
- Dahlman leads Wofford in scoring (17.4). Tim Johnson leads in rebounds (7.8) and Brad Loesing leads the team in assists (3.1).
- For the season, Wofford is shooting 44.1% from the field, 35.2% from behind the arc and 67% from the free throw line.
My Thoughts:
UNCG has got to continue to survive and advance. The Spartans haven't played well against Wofford this season. Hopefully, they will this time.
Go Spartans !!!
Where: Bojangles Coliseum (9,605)
TV: None/SoConTV.com
* This game is scheduled to start approximately 30 minutes after the conclusion of the Western Carolina-Elon game. That game will tip at 2 pm.
- The winner of today's game will advance to take on the winner of the 2 pm at approximately 6 pm tomorrow at Time Warner Cable Arena.
Wofford Athletics
Wofford Forum
Spartan Notes:
- Yesterday, UNCG got the benefit of a mistake by Furman's Amu Saaka. Saaka went for a 2 point basket when the Paladins needed a 3 pointer to tie. Even though he made the basket, the Spartans won 66-65.
-The Spartans have now won 2 games in a row and 3 of their last 4 games.
- The Spartan lost both contests to Wofford this season.
- Ben Stywall leads UNCG in scoring (14.2) and rebounding (10.4) . Kyle Randall leads the team in assists (2.6).
- For the year, UNCG is shooting 38.8% from the field, 29.2% from behind the arc and 69.4% from the free throw line.
Terrier Notes:
- Last time out, Wofford lead all the way en route to a win over Citadel, 75-66. Noah Dahlman lead Wofford with 18 points.
- Dahlman was named Southern Conference Player of the Year by the coaches. Wofford coach Mike Young was named Coach of the Year by the media and the coaches.
Wofford will get the SoCon automatic bid to the NIT should they not win the conference tournament.
- Dahlman leads Wofford in scoring (17.4). Tim Johnson leads in rebounds (7.8) and Brad Loesing leads the team in assists (3.1).
- For the season, Wofford is shooting 44.1% from the field, 35.2% from behind the arc and 67% from the free throw line.
My Thoughts:
UNCG has got to continue to survive and advance. The Spartans haven't played well against Wofford this season. Hopefully, they will this time.
Go Spartans !!!
Friday, February 19, 2010
Recap of the Week
UNCG 70 - Western Carolina 75
News & Record
UNCG Athletics
WCU Athletics
This game was a deja vu game for most UNCG fans sitting in the Greensboro Coliseum. Play poor in the first half. Make a furious second half run. Run out of gas at the end. However, this one played out a little different. The Spartans played very good second half defense, but just couldn't get a rebound at the end of a possession. Western Carolina had 22 offensive rebounds which turned into 22 second chance points. Kyle Randall scored 20 points (18 in the second half) had 9 rebounds and 3 assists for UNCG. Ben Stywall added 12 points and 9 rebounds.
UNCG 65 - Elon 70
News & Record
UNCG Athletics
Elon Athletics
The game in Alumni Gym was the mirror opposite of the one played just a few weeks earlier in the Greensboro Coliseum. Elon shot out to a big lead in the first half, only to have to hang on in the second. UNCG just couldn't get over the hump. The Phoenix used a balanced attack as four different players scored in double figures. Meanwhile for the Spartans, 2 players carried almost all of the load. Ben Stywall had 22 points and 11 rebounds. Mikko Koivisto added 19 points on six 3 pointers. The loss snapped a streak of 7 straight UNCG wins over its backyard rival.
News & Record
UNCG Athletics
WCU Athletics
This game was a deja vu game for most UNCG fans sitting in the Greensboro Coliseum. Play poor in the first half. Make a furious second half run. Run out of gas at the end. However, this one played out a little different. The Spartans played very good second half defense, but just couldn't get a rebound at the end of a possession. Western Carolina had 22 offensive rebounds which turned into 22 second chance points. Kyle Randall scored 20 points (18 in the second half) had 9 rebounds and 3 assists for UNCG. Ben Stywall added 12 points and 9 rebounds.
UNCG 65 - Elon 70
News & Record
UNCG Athletics
Elon Athletics
The game in Alumni Gym was the mirror opposite of the one played just a few weeks earlier in the Greensboro Coliseum. Elon shot out to a big lead in the first half, only to have to hang on in the second. UNCG just couldn't get over the hump. The Phoenix used a balanced attack as four different players scored in double figures. Meanwhile for the Spartans, 2 players carried almost all of the load. Ben Stywall had 22 points and 11 rebounds. Mikko Koivisto added 19 points on six 3 pointers. The loss snapped a streak of 7 straight UNCG wins over its backyard rival.
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