Tough schedule!!!!
http://guhoyas.cstv.com/sports/m-baskbl/spec-rel/071406aab.html
Friday, July 14, 2006
Friday, July 07, 2006
Interview w/ JIII
This will make the IPB happy -- more PT for Tyler.
http://www.collegehoopsnet.com/preview/interviews/2006johnthompson.htm
http://www.collegehoopsnet.com/preview/interviews/2006johnthompson.htm
Summer update on Hibbs
http://sports.espn.go.com/ncb/columns/story?columnist=katz_andy&id=2512328
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2006/writers/seth_davis/07/07/hoop.thoughts/index.html
The IPB and I are going to catch some Kenner games this summer so hopefully we can give first-hand updates.
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2006/writers/seth_davis/07/07/hoop.thoughts/index.html
The IPB and I are going to catch some Kenner games this summer so hopefully we can give first-hand updates.
Tuesday, July 04, 2006
Professor Tucker's new job
She was one of my favorites as an undergrad.
http://www.spacewar.com/reports/DNI_Appoints_Ombudsman_To_Guard_Analysis_999.html
http://www.spacewar.com/reports/DNI_Appoints_Ombudsman_To_Guard_Analysis_999.html
Wednesday, June 28, 2006
Tuesday, June 27, 2006
Friday, June 23, 2006
A Long Time Gone (or, Why Trial Sucks)
This post marks my triumphant return, or, at the very least, my hope for a triumphant return to the blogosphere. For those among our brethren who haven't seen or heard from me for a while, you should not feel slighted. No one has seen me in quite some time. Since about mid-April (when Diamond and IPB tried to organize a birthday happy hour for yours truly) until Wednesday of this week, I have been deeply embroiled in preparation for, and attendance at, trial.
For the last 3 weeks I lived in a hotel in Philadelphia, PA. I missed the closing on my first house; almost missed my move into the same; and undoubtedly missed a number of worthwhile life experiences that can never be duplicated. Trials are, to put it lightly, all consuming, exhausting events. For those who have only experienced this key part of American civil society through the rose colored glasses of L.A. Law, Boston Legal, Ally McBeal, or what have you, let me be the first to tell you it ain't nothing like you've seen on TV.
Trial is an exercise in taking the most simplistic, common-sense issues and turning them into days-long inquiries that take the listeners to the zenith of tedium, and subject young associates to an un-Godly amount of work. Even the most straight-forward issue can be turned into a three-ring circus. As an example I offer my own experience.
For two weeks the parties presented evidence (including a number of experts) so that the jury in our case could determine whether the time spent putting on light-weight cotton smocks, aprons, hairnets, etc. is compensable time. After all of that evidence, and four hours of deliberation, the jurors concluded that this time was not compensable because it is not "work." You're kidding, right? You're trying to tell me that the 0.5 to 1.5 seconds it takes to put on a hairnet that weighs as much as a sheet of notebook paper is not work? You don't say.
Of course, the U.S. Department of Labor disagrees with this jury. So this is not the last time that a company will have to spend hundreds of thousands of hours to convince another group of common citizens that workers should not be paid for the same activities each of them does without pay every morning when they step out of the shower.
If anything the whole process of the jury trial was an education in how difficult it is for any one to resolve any thing for a small amount of money in our modern legal system. In the rather simple case I have outlined above there were about 11 attorneys involved. My firm sent 2 partners, 1 counsel, and 2 associates. The other side had 6 attorneys representing 3 different law firms. This is not to mention the jury consultants, litigation tech specialists, paralegals, etc. that each side employed. If it takes all of that to determine whether you have to pay dear old dad for putting on his apron when he goes out to BBQ, I can hardly imagine what it will take to litigate something that is actually important.
Regardless, I hope to be in touch with you all soon. I should have a little more free time in the coming months...until the next trial rolls around.
For the last 3 weeks I lived in a hotel in Philadelphia, PA. I missed the closing on my first house; almost missed my move into the same; and undoubtedly missed a number of worthwhile life experiences that can never be duplicated. Trials are, to put it lightly, all consuming, exhausting events. For those who have only experienced this key part of American civil society through the rose colored glasses of L.A. Law, Boston Legal, Ally McBeal, or what have you, let me be the first to tell you it ain't nothing like you've seen on TV.
Trial is an exercise in taking the most simplistic, common-sense issues and turning them into days-long inquiries that take the listeners to the zenith of tedium, and subject young associates to an un-Godly amount of work. Even the most straight-forward issue can be turned into a three-ring circus. As an example I offer my own experience.
For two weeks the parties presented evidence (including a number of experts) so that the jury in our case could determine whether the time spent putting on light-weight cotton smocks, aprons, hairnets, etc. is compensable time. After all of that evidence, and four hours of deliberation, the jurors concluded that this time was not compensable because it is not "work." You're kidding, right? You're trying to tell me that the 0.5 to 1.5 seconds it takes to put on a hairnet that weighs as much as a sheet of notebook paper is not work? You don't say.
Of course, the U.S. Department of Labor disagrees with this jury. So this is not the last time that a company will have to spend hundreds of thousands of hours to convince another group of common citizens that workers should not be paid for the same activities each of them does without pay every morning when they step out of the shower.
If anything the whole process of the jury trial was an education in how difficult it is for any one to resolve any thing for a small amount of money in our modern legal system. In the rather simple case I have outlined above there were about 11 attorneys involved. My firm sent 2 partners, 1 counsel, and 2 associates. The other side had 6 attorneys representing 3 different law firms. This is not to mention the jury consultants, litigation tech specialists, paralegals, etc. that each side employed. If it takes all of that to determine whether you have to pay dear old dad for putting on his apron when he goes out to BBQ, I can hardly imagine what it will take to litigate something that is actually important.
Regardless, I hope to be in touch with you all soon. I should have a little more free time in the coming months...until the next trial rolls around.
Tuesday, June 20, 2006
Sunday, June 18, 2006
The Last of Us
Just wanted to use this forum to let y'all know that after much deliberation (& procrastination), I'll be attending law school in the fall. Come august, i'll be entering the first year evening class at Rutgers School of Law.
Not sure where the path of the law will take me, but I think individually I've spoken to each of you in the last year about how I've wanted to do this for some time. I'm keeping a very open mind about where the road takes me - whether internally at Marsh or some other direction.
God-wiling with a lot of hard work & little sleep, Mary & I will be the reverse Huxtables (not sure if I spelled that one right) in a few years.
I also wanted to say thanks to all of you for the help & guidance each of you tossed my way.
I'm aware it's going to be a tough process and will mean a few personal sacrificies, but anything worth doing usually is worth the work.
Not sure where the path of the law will take me, but I think individually I've spoken to each of you in the last year about how I've wanted to do this for some time. I'm keeping a very open mind about where the road takes me - whether internally at Marsh or some other direction.
God-wiling with a lot of hard work & little sleep, Mary & I will be the reverse Huxtables (not sure if I spelled that one right) in a few years.
I also wanted to say thanks to all of you for the help & guidance each of you tossed my way.
I'm aware it's going to be a tough process and will mean a few personal sacrificies, but anything worth doing usually is worth the work.
Thursday, June 15, 2006
Jewish center at GU
Interesting stories in Israeli newspaper about a potential Jewish center at GU paid for by Las Vegas magnate.
http://www.haaretz.com/hasen/pages/ShArtVty.jhtml?sw=georgetown&itemNo=726515
http://www.haaretz.com/hasen/pages/ShArtVty.jhtml?sw=georgetown&itemNo=726522
http://www.haaretz.com/hasen/pages/ShArtVty.jhtml?sw=georgetown&itemNo=726515
http://www.haaretz.com/hasen/pages/ShArtVty.jhtml?sw=georgetown&itemNo=726522
Tuesday, June 13, 2006
NBA Draft (JJ Redick in Celtic Green????)
Well no one has posted a thing in about a month so I figured I'd give it a shot.
The NBA Draft is less than two weeks away and speculation has been rampant that JJ Reddick's stock is rising. While many early projections had Redick projected to be taken in the mid-to-late first round, there are now several reports indicating that the Celtics may be prepared to select him with the 7th pick.
I wonder how and if today's arrest will impact where Redick is taken.
Putting this infration aside, I think he would be a great selection for the Celtics. We know the kid can do one thing--shoot--better than anyone in college basketball and probably 90% of the pros. Barring major injury, I just don't see how he would not average somewhere in the neighborhood of 10-15 points/game.
Given how weak this draft is, this seems like a pretty good return for the #7 selection.
The only thing that worries me a bit is that Duke does not have a history of churning out great NBA players, but I don't think you can look to make a splash at the 7 slot anyway w/such a weak draft.
On the upside, this kid played for four years, is a known quantity, and went up against some very solid comp during this time. I don't think there's any doubt he can play.
The Celtics learned how valuable it can be to select a player with 4 years experience last year when they snagged Ryan Gomes in the second round (an absolute steal--I knew it the minute Boston selected him after the way he single-handedly tore apart Georgetown).
Any thoughts on Redick to Boston?
Danny Ainge has actually drafted pretty well and I hope this trend continues.
The NBA Draft is less than two weeks away and speculation has been rampant that JJ Reddick's stock is rising. While many early projections had Redick projected to be taken in the mid-to-late first round, there are now several reports indicating that the Celtics may be prepared to select him with the 7th pick.
I wonder how and if today's arrest will impact where Redick is taken.
Putting this infration aside, I think he would be a great selection for the Celtics. We know the kid can do one thing--shoot--better than anyone in college basketball and probably 90% of the pros. Barring major injury, I just don't see how he would not average somewhere in the neighborhood of 10-15 points/game.
Given how weak this draft is, this seems like a pretty good return for the #7 selection.
The only thing that worries me a bit is that Duke does not have a history of churning out great NBA players, but I don't think you can look to make a splash at the 7 slot anyway w/such a weak draft.
On the upside, this kid played for four years, is a known quantity, and went up against some very solid comp during this time. I don't think there's any doubt he can play.
The Celtics learned how valuable it can be to select a player with 4 years experience last year when they snagged Ryan Gomes in the second round (an absolute steal--I knew it the minute Boston selected him after the way he single-handedly tore apart Georgetown).
Any thoughts on Redick to Boston?
Danny Ainge has actually drafted pretty well and I hope this trend continues.
Thursday, May 11, 2006
College Boy
This dude is the real life Crawl (Pauly Shore) from Son-in-Law. Disturbing to think that this character is still roaming the freshman dorms looking for action.
http://www.cnn.com/2006/EDUCATION/05/10/perpetual.student.ap/index.html
http://www.cnn.com/2006/EDUCATION/05/10/perpetual.student.ap/index.html
Wednesday, May 10, 2006
Geek of the Week Award
sorry, couldn't resist the urge to use an old Mike & the MadDog phrase. Sort of reminds me of the scene in the Breakfast Club when the tough guy falls through the library ceiling.
http://www.cnn.com/2006/US/05/10/escape.fails.ap/index.html
http://www.cnn.com/2006/US/05/10/escape.fails.ap/index.html
Monday, May 08, 2006
A new leader for the 21st century.
If not for the Body, this door would not be open for such fine candidates.
http://wbal.com/news/story.asp?articleid=44445
http://wbal.com/news/story.asp?articleid=44445
Sunday, May 07, 2006
Help out
Jester and IPB, in particular, make sure you contact the park service and add your support.
http://buildtheboathouse.org/
http://buildtheboathouse.org/
Friday, May 05, 2006
Quick Poll?
I was wondering if anyone has any thoughts about the Blair government's major loss in City Council elections in Britain yesterday. Labour lost 298 seats. Though they still hold a majority, this was still considered a huge loss. Could the UK be swinging towards the Conservative Party at the same time the U.S. is swinging Democrat? This would be a truly interesting turn of events, especially given the role that the war in Iraq has on both ruling parties' fortunes.
Thursday, May 04, 2006
Lost?
Do any of you guys watch Lost?
It is, by far, the best show on tv.
The amount of thought that goes into the smallest details of the show are amazing. For example, there was a fake commercial interspliced with the real commercials during the airing of last night's episode. The fake commercial was for a fake scientific foundation that relates to the show and origins of the mysterious island at its center. If you called the number at the end of the commercial you could listen to fake messages at the fake foundation's call center. One of those messages provided a password. That password, in turn, unlocked a secret area on the fake foundation's fake website. That website's secret area provides more phony documents that give more clues about what is going on on the show.
Just amazing!
It is, by far, the best show on tv.
The amount of thought that goes into the smallest details of the show are amazing. For example, there was a fake commercial interspliced with the real commercials during the airing of last night's episode. The fake commercial was for a fake scientific foundation that relates to the show and origins of the mysterious island at its center. If you called the number at the end of the commercial you could listen to fake messages at the fake foundation's call center. One of those messages provided a password. That password, in turn, unlocked a secret area on the fake foundation's fake website. That website's secret area provides more phony documents that give more clues about what is going on on the show.
Just amazing!
DC Baseball
Congrats to all you Nats fans (Jester I think you're the only one). By all accounts, it seems that the Nats have replaced the O's as the Beltway's favorite team. Question for the DC folk, Is the Nats' overwhelming fan support & popularity simply due to people being in the newlywed phase of having a home town team or are they genuine fans?
Put another way, do you think fan support will dwindle in a year or two and / or once the Nats have a few losing seasons?
Put another way, do you think fan support will dwindle in a year or two and / or once the Nats have a few losing seasons?
Wednesday, May 03, 2006
Amazin' Mets & Juicin' Bonds
In response to Jester, I feel the need to express my true joy at watching my beloved Mets play so far this year. While there is a lot of ball left to play this season, I think they've thrown down the gauntlet to the NL East (including the Nats) and have shouted "Catch us if you can!"
And now for good blogger fodder, I throw this out to the field - Should Bonds get a celebration for passing Ruth? I say hell no given that he juiced his way to the top. Personally, I'd love to be there to boo his ass when he does. His actions as well as those of others (in my opinion this includes Sosa and Big Mac) have done nothing but cheapen and ruin what was once arguably the most revered and respected record in sports.
For a second question, should everything Bonds has accomplished from 1999-current be stricken from the record books?
(of couse I'm assuming that he's being juicing since then; but given his unhuman like middle aged growth spurt, don't think this is too far off base).
And now for good blogger fodder, I throw this out to the field - Should Bonds get a celebration for passing Ruth? I say hell no given that he juiced his way to the top. Personally, I'd love to be there to boo his ass when he does. His actions as well as those of others (in my opinion this includes Sosa and Big Mac) have done nothing but cheapen and ruin what was once arguably the most revered and respected record in sports.
For a second question, should everything Bonds has accomplished from 1999-current be stricken from the record books?
(of couse I'm assuming that he's being juicing since then; but given his unhuman like middle aged growth spurt, don't think this is too far off base).
Please Post Something
Will some one please post something? I come here everyday and stare at the same old posts. Surely one of us must have some thought that is interesting enough to share.
Thursday, April 20, 2006
Michael Jordan All-American game
Don't forget to catch DeJaun and the Big Ticket -- Saturday 8 pm.
http://www.nike.com/jumpman23/classic/event.html
http://www.nike.com/jumpman23/classic/event.html
Tuesday, April 18, 2006
I suppose this is good news
but I would like to see more results and less (vague??) talk.
http://explore.georgetown.edu/news/?ID=14788
http://explore.georgetown.edu/news/?ID=14788
Monday, April 17, 2006
New B-school dean
I think this guy sounds great. His resume aside -- I love the vision and straight-forward thinking. I hope the new grad school dean will have a similar vision on what it takes to move to the front of the pack. The most interesting note is that the b-school has been given financial autonomy like the law school. This is huge and will generate a lot more cash for its programs. The big question is what happens to the college and SFS which are going to be left with smaller pools.
http://news.ft.com/cms/s/cfe6b4a6-cdad-11da-afcd-0000779e2340.html
http://news.ft.com/cms/s/cfe6b4a6-cdad-11da-afcd-0000779e2340.html
Friday, April 14, 2006
Scouting Report
Diamond and I went to the Capitol Classic last evening to scout one of our incoming recruits, Jeremiah Rivers, son of former Atlanta Hawk and NY Knick and current Boston Celtic coach Glenn "Doc" Rivers, who was in attendance last evening.
The sneak peek looked promising. Rivers showed an uncanny ability to dish and find the open man in traffic, which should mean a lot of high percentage shots for our guys down low and hopefully someone on the perimeter to knock down the occasional three. He is quick and exhibited great court awareness. He also looked to be in pretty good physical condition although I'm sure this could improve. My only criticism was that he may have been too willing to pass/give up the rock while driving to the hoop, if there is such a thing as too much passing. I thought in doing so he passed up some high percentage penetration shots. He will need to learn sometimes take these and/or draw contact to get a foul.
We unfortunately did not get to see if he could really shoot from the perimeter. His outside shooting during warm-ups appeared to be either dead-on or way way off.
All in all seems like a good addition and someone who will integrate well into JTIII's system.
Am also pleased to report that Jeff Green and Jonathan Wallace were in the house checking out their new teammate!!!
The sneak peek looked promising. Rivers showed an uncanny ability to dish and find the open man in traffic, which should mean a lot of high percentage shots for our guys down low and hopefully someone on the perimeter to knock down the occasional three. He is quick and exhibited great court awareness. He also looked to be in pretty good physical condition although I'm sure this could improve. My only criticism was that he may have been too willing to pass/give up the rock while driving to the hoop, if there is such a thing as too much passing. I thought in doing so he passed up some high percentage penetration shots. He will need to learn sometimes take these and/or draw contact to get a foul.
We unfortunately did not get to see if he could really shoot from the perimeter. His outside shooting during warm-ups appeared to be either dead-on or way way off.
All in all seems like a good addition and someone who will integrate well into JTIII's system.
Am also pleased to report that Jeff Green and Jonathan Wallace were in the house checking out their new teammate!!!
Blast From the Past
This was interesting (hard to believe it's been 10 years). Jester, sorry if this brings up bad memories.
http://www.nytimes.com/2006/04/14/sports/baseball/14maier.html?ex=1145160000&en=046dea867a6404be&ei=5087%0A
http://www.nytimes.com/2006/04/14/sports/baseball/14maier.html?ex=1145160000&en=046dea867a6404be&ei=5087%0A
Friday, April 07, 2006
Latest on the New B-School Building
Today's Hoya has an article about the recent ground-breaking ceremony for the new business school building, which is being built where the baseball field used to be.
According to the article, actual construction is still a little way off, as the Univesity is still procurring the necessary permits.
Still, it seems like things are getting closer to becoming a physical reality with this latest edition to "west campus."
According to the article, actual construction is still a little way off, as the Univesity is still procurring the necessary permits.
Still, it seems like things are getting closer to becoming a physical reality with this latest edition to "west campus."
Wednesday, April 05, 2006
Thank You
This is Mrs. Stallion talking. I wanted to thank everyone for their contributions to my shoe shopping fund. I sincerely hope that no one feels demasculinized by my good fortune:) Until next year.
Tuesday, April 04, 2006
Never Too Early to Start Thinking About Next Year
So, here's a link to the blog of SI.com writer Luke Winn. Mr. Winn has picked the Hoyas as number 7 in his top ten teams of next year.
7. Georgetown: With UConn, Villanova and West Virginia all set to lose significant pieces, the new Beasts of the Big East will reside in D.C. Upsets of No. 1-ranked Duke (in January) and No. 2-seeded Ohio State (NCAA second round) this season may foreshadow greater things for the Hoyas, who have NBA-caliber talent in forward Jeff Green and center Roy Hibbert. The 7-2 Hibbert -- whom coach John Thompson III said he needed to teach how to run when he initially arrived on campus -- is only beginning to realize his potential.
Monday, April 03, 2006
And the winner is....
Mrs. Stallion!
Congratulations on winning the inaugural pool!!!
You edged ahead of Jester by three points with your prescient selection of Florida.
Stallion--please tell the Mrs. to look for something in your mailbox this week.
Congratulations on winning the inaugural pool!!!
You edged ahead of Jester by three points with your prescient selection of Florida.
Stallion--please tell the Mrs. to look for something in your mailbox this week.
Wednesday, March 29, 2006
McDonald's AA Game
Don't forget to catch the Ticket tonight in the AA game -- 10 pm ESPN.
http://home.hamptonroads.com/stories/story.cfm?story=102164&ran=142855
The MJ AA game is on national tv next month -- featuring both Ticket and Summers. And Rivers will be playing in the Cap classic in D.C. Hopefully, the IPB and I can make it out there to scout him.
http://home.hamptonroads.com/stories/story.cfm?story=102164&ran=142855
The MJ AA game is on national tv next month -- featuring both Ticket and Summers. And Rivers will be playing in the Cap classic in D.C. Hopefully, the IPB and I can make it out there to scout him.
Friday, March 24, 2006
Victor Page
Interesting yet sad article. It does put a positive spin on his life though.
http://www.nytimes.com/2006/03/24/sports/ncaabasketball/24page.html?_r=1&oref=slogin
http://www.nytimes.com/2006/03/24/sports/ncaabasketball/24page.html?_r=1&oref=slogin
Thursday, March 23, 2006
Tuesday, March 21, 2006
Fan of the Game
Nothing against those who waive the foam finger, but I think this guy takes the taco. Is this you IPB?
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/multimedia/photo_gallery/0603/gallery.fans/content.1.html?cnn=yes
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/multimedia/photo_gallery/0603/gallery.fans/content.1.html?cnn=yes
If Noah beats us, this game will go down as Esh's revenge.
Of course, he also brought us Green and Hibbs.
http://www.miami.com/mld/miamiherald/sports/colleges/university_of_florida/14147940.htm
http://www.floridatoday.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060321/SPORTS/603210325/1002
http://www.news-journalonline.com/NewsJournalOnline/Sports/Headlines/sptBKC01032106.htm
http://www.palmbeachpost.com/sports/content/sports/epaper/2006/03/21/a7c_ufhoop_0321.html
http://www.miami.com/mld/miamiherald/sports/colleges/university_of_florida/14147940.htm
http://www.floridatoday.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060321/SPORTS/603210325/1002
http://www.news-journalonline.com/NewsJournalOnline/Sports/Headlines/sptBKC01032106.htm
http://www.palmbeachpost.com/sports/content/sports/epaper/2006/03/21/a7c_ufhoop_0321.html
Sunday, March 19, 2006
Sweet 16
Personal biases from the IPB pool aside, what are the thoughts on GU's chances to make the Elite 8? I must admit that I don't know much about Florida, but given the way GU played today, especially Hibbert (who had a big-time performance - or Prime Time as Dickie V would say), I think we have more than a good chance.
To win by 18 on what was pretty much a 100% road game environment, I must say that I'm thinking that we should fare well on a neutral court. To me, the way GU kept the half-time lead intact was the way the game against Syracuse game should have gone.
Hopefully the solid play continues.
To win by 18 on what was pretty much a 100% road game environment, I must say that I'm thinking that we should fare well on a neutral court. To me, the way GU kept the half-time lead intact was the way the game against Syracuse game should have gone.
Hopefully the solid play continues.
Saturday, March 18, 2006
Thursday, March 16, 2006
National Champ Picks
Interesting reviewing the brackets. If UConn goes out earlier than Duke, Mary becomes the clear favorite to win. Damn it - I hate her random methodology.
Monday, March 13, 2006
Let the Madness Begin
Although not an impact on the overall bracket, I'm calling for Monmouth to pull out tomorrow's play-in game. (I've got to go w/ the local NJ team.)
(My idea to "spruce up" the tournament is to also have a play-in game between 2 bubble teams with the winner getting a 11 or 12 seed.
(My idea to "spruce up" the tournament is to also have a play-in game between 2 bubble teams with the winner getting a 11 or 12 seed.
Pardon The Interuption
Though I would normally consider it extremely poor form to interject non-basketball commentary into the blog given that we are currently in the grips of March Madness, I just couldn't help myself with this one.
I am pleased to announce that Mrs. Jester and I purchased a house this week. Though I am sure Diamond will disapprove of the commute dictated by the location of my new land holdings, we are quite happy with the decision. Unfortunately, however, we will not take possession of the new Jester Homestead until mid-June. Accordingly, there will be no Madness viewing party at Case de Jester this year. However, I would encourage you all to mark your calendars for next year accordingly.
For photos please follow this link.
I am pleased to announce that Mrs. Jester and I purchased a house this week. Though I am sure Diamond will disapprove of the commute dictated by the location of my new land holdings, we are quite happy with the decision. Unfortunately, however, we will not take possession of the new Jester Homestead until mid-June. Accordingly, there will be no Madness viewing party at Case de Jester this year. However, I would encourage you all to mark your calendars for next year accordingly.
For photos please follow this link.
Sunday, March 12, 2006
Surprise Seeding
I'm not arguing w/ our 7 seed (don't think the 'Cuse merited higher than 6 seed). I don't know how BC got 4 seed & Tennesse gets 2 seed. I am calling that Tennesse is the sacrificial 2 seed that goes down in the first round.
To me, the biggest surprise was UNC as a 3.
Good to see the Pirates back in the Dance.
To me, the biggest surprise was UNC as a 3.
Good to see the Pirates back in the Dance.
Friday, March 10, 2006
What the F@$!
Ok, I know that as far as the Dance goes, tonight's game was not exactly crucial. Aside from improving seeding, it was a game between two locks. I'm not bothered by the fact that the 'Cuse and the little fuzzy guy (aka gerry macnamara) won as much as I am by the fact that we seemingly squandered a 15 point lead. Given the outcome of the Pitt / Nova game, winning tonight would have basically meant GU would take the BE crown (I KNOW we would have beaten Pitt).
I didn't follow the 2nd half as close as the first, but at what point did GU decide to pack it in? I also don't understand JTIII not calling the TO with 9 seconds left. Going for the speedy attack was a nice thought, but under the circumstances, I don't understand not using the final TO in a one possession and very winnable game. I don't know that it changes the outcome, but given the turnover on the previous possession, to me this was a bonehead call.
I didn't follow the 2nd half as close as the first, but at what point did GU decide to pack it in? I also don't understand JTIII not calling the TO with 9 seconds left. Going for the speedy attack was a nice thought, but under the circumstances, I don't understand not using the final TO in a one possession and very winnable game. I don't know that it changes the outcome, but given the turnover on the previous possession, to me this was a bonehead call.
Thursday, March 09, 2006
Exciting Stuff!
I was wrong, the game was on Sportstalk 980. I ended up listening to the last 5 minutes in my office online. A real exciting game with us almost blowing an 8-point lead in the final minute. But, again, it seemed that Brandon played really clutch down the stretch, hitting key free throws, etc. Maybe being a senior really is good for something in the post season.
While I fully expected us to lose to Marquette, I am now looking forward to a potential berth in the finals. I know that Cuse is playing great basketball, but I'd much rather play them then Nova...I just think we match up better. That being said, I'm sure that they'll have revenge for their late season loss on their mind. But bring them on! I have to try to get home to see this one ("damn you long commute!")
While I fully expected us to lose to Marquette, I am now looking forward to a potential berth in the finals. I know that Cuse is playing great basketball, but I'd much rather play them then Nova...I just think we match up better. That being said, I'm sure that they'll have revenge for their late season loss on their mind. But bring them on! I have to try to get home to see this one ("damn you long commute!")
Whew!
Yesterday's game was a nail biter. I closed my office door and listened to the last 10 minutes or so online (unfortunately, it doesn't look like DC's Sportstalk 980 is covering today's game). I definitely did not feel like we were going to win until about the last 30 seconds.
I don't share Italian's or Diamond's optimism about today's game. Though we should really be able to beat Marquette if we want to be considered a "real" tourney team (I know we've pretty much made it, but there's a difference between making the tourney and really being a team that is there to play), I don't think we will. Marquette is better than they've been given credit for this year, and we've definitely been worse that we're given credit for as of late. Right now we are not the number #23 team in the land. But I do think we were at least that good earlier in the year. I just hope we can rediscover our game.
PS - IPB has to be killing himself that Brandon pretty much won the game single handedly for us yesterday. When it really looked like ND was going to build on their lead and start hammering us Bowman came up with some huge shots. If only he could learn to play well consistently.
I don't share Italian's or Diamond's optimism about today's game. Though we should really be able to beat Marquette if we want to be considered a "real" tourney team (I know we've pretty much made it, but there's a difference between making the tourney and really being a team that is there to play), I don't think we will. Marquette is better than they've been given credit for this year, and we've definitely been worse that we're given credit for as of late. Right now we are not the number #23 team in the land. But I do think we were at least that good earlier in the year. I just hope we can rediscover our game.
PS - IPB has to be killing himself that Brandon pretty much won the game single handedly for us yesterday. When it really looked like ND was going to build on their lead and start hammering us Bowman came up with some huge shots. If only he could learn to play well consistently.
Saturday, March 04, 2006
Friday, March 03, 2006
Doesn't change my feelings for the Dukies but an interesting read.
http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/columns/story?columnist=wojciechowski_gene&id=2351760
http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/columns/story?columnist=wojciechowski_gene&id=2351760
Thursday, March 02, 2006
BE Tourney
Anybody heading up for BE Tourney next week? I am still looking for tickets, but am about 99% sure I'll be watching on TV. Was curious if anybody was making a trip up for any of it.
Monday, February 27, 2006
NCAA Seeding Question
If GW's best player, Mensah-Bonsu (sp?), can't play in the NCAA tournament because of injury, will the selection committee take this into account when determining GW's tournament seeding?
Are there any guidelines at all for how the selection committee determines seeds?
Btw, who sits on the selection committee?
Are there any guidelines at all for how the selection committee determines seeds?
Btw, who sits on the selection committee?
Saturday, February 25, 2006
GO HOYAS!
Let's beat CUSE!
Another Bowman story for good luck:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/02/24/AR2006022402005.html
Let's hope we get "Good Brandon"!
Another Bowman story for good luck:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/02/24/AR2006022402005.html
Let's hope we get "Good Brandon"!
Friday, February 24, 2006
A reminder of where we stood three years ago
As some of you know, I sent the letter below to Joe Lang (and copied Jack DeGioia) just over three years ago. I am posting it because it makes me chuckle and hopefully it will give you a laugh too.
I also thought it worthy of posting in recognition of how much things have changed in these three years and also as a reminder that our work is not done.
Keep your fingers crossed tomorrow and in the weeks ahead!
January 21, 2003
Mr. Joseph Lang
Georgetown University
Athletic Department
McDonough Arena
Washington, D.C. 20057
Dear Mr. Lang:
It is with great dismay that I read your comments in a recent
Washington Post article, “Just Like the Hoyas, Esherick’s Evolving.” I
attended the Georgetown-St. John’s game last weekend, and let me just
say, I have seen nothing like it in my twenty-odd years as a basketball fan and observer.
While I will leave it to others to debate the wisdom or utter stupidity
of offering Coach Craig Esherick a contract extension, what disturbed
me the most were your comments about the state of Georgetown’s basketball program.
To read that making the NCAA tournament is an “unreasonable”
expectation for Georgetown basketball is baffling and troubling.
Whether it’s on the basketball court or in the classroom, Georgetown
University should strive--in all its endeavors--for excellence.
Anything less should not be tolerated.
I need not remind you that Georgetown was once a perennial participant
in the NCAA tournament. Today, Georgetown has too often stood against
the tournament window with its nose pressed against the glass. The
rapid decline of this once-great program has been astounding.
As an alumnus of the College of Arts and Science and a soon-to-be
alumnus of Georgetown Law, my overall concern is that Georgetown retain
the excellent reputation it has worked so long to cultivate.
While I understand that the university does not possess unlimited
financial resources, there is no reason why the basketball program
should be sacrificed at the altar of fiscal restraint and concerns
about improving the university’s academic reputation.
As for fiscal constraints, let’s just say it’s not a radical
proposition that nationally prominent and nationally recognized
athletic teams generate excitement and enthusiasm among alums and
philanthropic donors who may be more inclined to give. To believe
anything else is myopic and short sighted. As Georgetown struggles to
meet the Third Century Campaign goals, the University should not turn
its back on the role sports can play in achieving greater fiscal stability.
As for the athletics v. academics debate, last time I checked Duke,
Stanford, and Northwestern were doing just fine. These schools
recently have used athletics as a vehicle to garner greater attention
and to attract top students without compromising academic integrity.
On the contrary, I submit that Holy Cross stands, in part, as a sad
example of what can happen to a school that turn its back on its athletic traditions and heritage.
Mr. Lang, whose company would you rather keep?
I think I speak for many alums when I say that your recent comments do
not reflect the spirit of Georgetown. Shame on you!
Sincerely,
I also thought it worthy of posting in recognition of how much things have changed in these three years and also as a reminder that our work is not done.
Keep your fingers crossed tomorrow and in the weeks ahead!
January 21, 2003
Mr. Joseph Lang
Georgetown University
Athletic Department
McDonough Arena
Washington, D.C. 20057
Dear Mr. Lang:
It is with great dismay that I read your comments in a recent
Washington Post article, “Just Like the Hoyas, Esherick’s Evolving.” I
attended the Georgetown-St. John’s game last weekend, and let me just
say, I have seen nothing like it in my twenty-odd years as a basketball fan and observer.
While I will leave it to others to debate the wisdom or utter stupidity
of offering Coach Craig Esherick a contract extension, what disturbed
me the most were your comments about the state of Georgetown’s basketball program.
To read that making the NCAA tournament is an “unreasonable”
expectation for Georgetown basketball is baffling and troubling.
Whether it’s on the basketball court or in the classroom, Georgetown
University should strive--in all its endeavors--for excellence.
Anything less should not be tolerated.
I need not remind you that Georgetown was once a perennial participant
in the NCAA tournament. Today, Georgetown has too often stood against
the tournament window with its nose pressed against the glass. The
rapid decline of this once-great program has been astounding.
As an alumnus of the College of Arts and Science and a soon-to-be
alumnus of Georgetown Law, my overall concern is that Georgetown retain
the excellent reputation it has worked so long to cultivate.
While I understand that the university does not possess unlimited
financial resources, there is no reason why the basketball program
should be sacrificed at the altar of fiscal restraint and concerns
about improving the university’s academic reputation.
As for fiscal constraints, let’s just say it’s not a radical
proposition that nationally prominent and nationally recognized
athletic teams generate excitement and enthusiasm among alums and
philanthropic donors who may be more inclined to give. To believe
anything else is myopic and short sighted. As Georgetown struggles to
meet the Third Century Campaign goals, the University should not turn
its back on the role sports can play in achieving greater fiscal stability.
As for the athletics v. academics debate, last time I checked Duke,
Stanford, and Northwestern were doing just fine. These schools
recently have used athletics as a vehicle to garner greater attention
and to attract top students without compromising academic integrity.
On the contrary, I submit that Holy Cross stands, in part, as a sad
example of what can happen to a school that turn its back on its athletic traditions and heritage.
Mr. Lang, whose company would you rather keep?
I think I speak for many alums when I say that your recent comments do
not reflect the spirit of Georgetown. Shame on you!
Sincerely,
Thursday, February 23, 2006
Last Night
Just wanted to post a big thanks to Diamond and IPB for hosting me and Mrs. Jester at the game last night. We had a great time; it was a pleasure to be able to see the Hoyas on their home court again.
Here are a few highlights from the banter in the stands during the game for our contributors who weren't with us:
1.) IPB agreed to quit his job as a high-powered Washington lawyer and return to the Hilltop to work as a fundraiser for a on-campus arena. In return he only asks for a $75K/yr. salary, for the University cover his travel expenses in connection to his fund-raising efforts, and a room in New South. I'm talking to DeGoia today to see if we can make that happen.
2.) When asked about the costs associated with the Hoyas lease of the MCI Center, Diamond responded that this information was not publicly available and he could not, therefore, enlighten us. He admitted, however, that if one of the partners he works for had asked him the same questions he would not have responded that the information was unavailable--he would have found the answer. Should Georgetown expect less from Diamond? Poor form to be sure.
3.) I also invented a new stat during the game. It is called the Bowman Index. You simply take the number of points that a player contributes (by scores, assists, or steals that result in points) and subtract the number of points that they give up (through blown defense, dumb fouls, and turnovers). As I'm sure you can imagine Brandon's Bowman Index is negative for most games.
That is all I have. Later.
Here are a few highlights from the banter in the stands during the game for our contributors who weren't with us:
1.) IPB agreed to quit his job as a high-powered Washington lawyer and return to the Hilltop to work as a fundraiser for a on-campus arena. In return he only asks for a $75K/yr. salary, for the University cover his travel expenses in connection to his fund-raising efforts, and a room in New South. I'm talking to DeGoia today to see if we can make that happen.
2.) When asked about the costs associated with the Hoyas lease of the MCI Center, Diamond responded that this information was not publicly available and he could not, therefore, enlighten us. He admitted, however, that if one of the partners he works for had asked him the same questions he would not have responded that the information was unavailable--he would have found the answer. Should Georgetown expect less from Diamond? Poor form to be sure.
3.) I also invented a new stat during the game. It is called the Bowman Index. You simply take the number of points that a player contributes (by scores, assists, or steals that result in points) and subtract the number of points that they give up (through blown defense, dumb fouls, and turnovers). As I'm sure you can imagine Brandon's Bowman Index is negative for most games.
That is all I have. Later.
Wednesday, February 22, 2006
Game On!
I shining up the big finger and gargling lemon juice to prepare my voice. The Scarlet Knights will never know what hit them...it's the return of the Jester!
Sunday, February 19, 2006
Improvement
Disappointed in the loss, but I thought the guys looked a lot better. We are still not clicking like pre-West Virgina 2nd half but we played well enough to beat most teams. Nova was just too quick for our guards. We will beat Rutgers, Cuse and South Florida if we play this well. And, at Rutgers, the Scarlet Knights are going to have to contend with the heckling of Jester.
Wednesday, February 15, 2006
Tuesday, February 14, 2006
On-campus arena
This is something that the IPB and I discussed at length after the WVU game. It sparked similar discussion on the message board.
http://hoyatalk2.proboards48.com/index.cgi?board=general&action=display&thread=1139798966
http://hoyatalk2.proboards48.com/index.cgi?board=general&action=display&thread=1139798966
Sunday, February 12, 2006
Favorite vs. West Virginia
Sportsbetting.com has listed Georgetown as a 4.5 point favorite for today's game. This information is being posted for recreational purposes only.
Thursday, February 09, 2006
Team of the Week
i don't know if anyone else saw this. nice to see GU getting its due credit. i'll admit that i was highly skeptical (to put it mildly) of jt3's arrival. but, while there is much work to do & a lot of season left, i have to recognize & give tons of credit to his coaching ability & the way the team has responded to him.
http://sports.espn.go.com/ncb/news/story?id=2320297
http://sports.espn.go.com/ncb/news/story?id=2320297
Tuesday, February 07, 2006
Summers and Ticket are MJ AA's
http://www.nike.com/jumpman23/classic/event.html
I imagine the McD AA's will be pretty similar to this lineup.
I imagine the McD AA's will be pretty similar to this lineup.
Monday, February 06, 2006
Sunday, February 05, 2006
Win over Pitt
I'm assuming IPB & Diamond were at MCI for the game. I must admit that I only saw the 2nd half, so I don't know if the first half deficit of 15 or so at one point was due to poor play by us or Pitt being on fire. What I can say & did see watching the game on TV was that the 2nd half showed a GU team that was tough & smart. GU looked very calm & poised (I hate to say it, but they looked almost Duke like) as they climbed out of the 7 point half-time hole. I remarked to my cats that we were going to win the game as we brought the score to 45-40. A solid victory! Holding Pitt to 4 points over a good 12-13 minute span was impressive.
Aside from the near collapse in the last 90 seconds (we were VERY luck by the way), GU looked like a team that has a very good chance to be playing in the Saturday night Big East game.
Aside from the near collapse in the last 90 seconds (we were VERY luck by the way), GU looked like a team that has a very good chance to be playing in the Saturday night Big East game.
Friday, February 03, 2006
Sports Nation Support
FYI: From ESPN's Sports Nation poll:
Of the four teams new to the rankings this week, which do you feel is most likely to remain ranked for the rest of the regular season?
58.0% Georgetown
20.3% Michigan
11.1% Colorado
10.6% Northern Iowa
Of the four teams new to the rankings this week, which do you feel is most likely to remain ranked for the rest of the regular season?
58.0% Georgetown
20.3% Michigan
11.1% Colorado
10.6% Northern Iowa
Monday, January 30, 2006
New ESPN Rankings
Haven't seen the AP rankings yet, but I would suspect that we are in a similar spot to ESPN's # 22 slot. Seems fair given we have the meat of the Big East schedule coming up. Agree with Jester's Rick Flair quote (if it were professionally acceptable, I'd be making the accompanying sound effect as well. know that i'm doing it on the inside). From what little I've seen, I would think WV would be a smidge higher than Pitt; but, admittedly, I'm basing that solely off of BE standings.
Not to keep bashing the crap out of GW, but somebody at ESPN please explain to me how the # 1 and undefeated WV team is ranked a slot behind GW?!! Is being tops of the A10 superior to tops of the hands-down nastiest conference? I want to be there at the end of the season waving goodbye to the Colonials they zoom down the rankings & out of post season.
As far as our schedule, I'm almost more scared of playing St. John's again & visiting Marquette than I am of heading to Nova.
Not to keep bashing the crap out of GW, but somebody at ESPN please explain to me how the # 1 and undefeated WV team is ranked a slot behind GW?!! Is being tops of the A10 superior to tops of the hands-down nastiest conference? I want to be there at the end of the season waving goodbye to the Colonials they zoom down the rankings & out of post season.
As far as our schedule, I'm almost more scared of playing St. John's again & visiting Marquette than I am of heading to Nova.
Very Telling
Surfing around on ESPN.com this morning I came across this statistical break down on the "expanded" Big East standings (for some reason the html got screwed up...scroll down):
I think that this chart highlights the real distinguishing factor between GU and Marquette and what I would call the "elite" Big East teams. What really sets those other teams apart is their record against other top teams. Now, I realize that we've had a hard go at it having to play most of our top 25 games on the road. But, in the words of Dan Martin (quoting Rick Flair), "if you want to be the best, you have to beat the best." We did that with Duke. We need to do it with more consistency down the stretch if we want to be considered a real contender.
| Expanded | AP 25 | ESPN/USA | Overall | ||||
| W | L | W | L | PF | PA | STRK | |
| Connecticut | 4 | 0 | 3 | 0 | 81.9 | 62.5 | W7 |
| Pittsburgh | 3 | 0 | 3 | 0 | 74.3 | 60.6 | W2 |
| Villanova | 3 | 2 | 3 | 2 | 77.2 | 62.0 | W4 |
| West Virginia | 4 | 1 | 3 | 1 | 74.2 | 62.9 | W1 |
| Georgetown | 1 | 3 | 1 | 3 | 70.2 | 60.9 | W4 |
| Marquette | 1 | 3 | 1 | 3 | 75.2 | 67.8 | L1 |
I think that this chart highlights the real distinguishing factor between GU and Marquette and what I would call the "elite" Big East teams. What really sets those other teams apart is their record against other top teams. Now, I realize that we've had a hard go at it having to play most of our top 25 games on the road. But, in the words of Dan Martin (quoting Rick Flair), "if you want to be the best, you have to beat the best." We did that with Duke. We need to do it with more consistency down the stretch if we want to be considered a real contender.
Sunday, January 29, 2006
Saturday, January 28, 2006
Cincy Beatdown
I'm going to go out on a limb with 2:40 to go in the game & a 23 point lead, GU will complete the utter domination of a rather thuggish looking Bearcat team.
I'm assuming that Diamond & IPB were at the game. Was the student crowd sizeable? I was surprised tha the crowd didn't go ballistic with the coffin nailing Green dunk w/ a little over 3 mintues to go. Overall it seemed like we put a solid 40 minutes of ball together with relatively little problems. With this win and a the victory of ND, we should be a top 20 team in both polls come next week.
Based on the last 2 performances at home, it'd be great if the student body made MCI a home court feared by other Big East teams.
By the way, during a TV timeout, they showed Jack pulverizing a Cincinatti t-shirt.
I'm assuming that Diamond & IPB were at the game. Was the student crowd sizeable? I was surprised tha the crowd didn't go ballistic with the coffin nailing Green dunk w/ a little over 3 mintues to go. Overall it seemed like we put a solid 40 minutes of ball together with relatively little problems. With this win and a the victory of ND, we should be a top 20 team in both polls come next week.
Based on the last 2 performances at home, it'd be great if the student body made MCI a home court feared by other Big East teams.
By the way, during a TV timeout, they showed Jack pulverizing a Cincinatti t-shirt.
Thursday, January 26, 2006
Suspect Ranking
If this has already been covered on the board, my bad. I just realized that GW is ranked # 15 or # 14 depending the poll. I know that they only have 1 loss (to #17 NC State), but looking at their schedule, it seems as if the ranking peeps are exaggerating the weight of the victories. In my mind the # 15 team in the country is a team that would warrant a 3 or 4 seed in the Dance & have a legit chance to go to the elite eight. Does anyone actually think GW is that good?
Their early season wins remind me of the Rheese Gibson era early season games played on campus. The win over Marshall is a big more impressive now given their victory over WVU, but beating Stony Brook, not quite as impressive. Being top of the A10 is cool & they should get an at large bid regardless of the result of the conference tourney, but come on - what kind of crazy pills are these people taking?
Am I overlooking some factor?
Their early season wins remind me of the Rheese Gibson era early season games played on campus. The win over Marshall is a big more impressive now given their victory over WVU, but beating Stony Brook, not quite as impressive. Being top of the A10 is cool & they should get an at large bid regardless of the result of the conference tourney, but come on - what kind of crazy pills are these people taking?
Am I overlooking some factor?
Wednesday, January 25, 2006
Big East Tenacity
How 'bout the WV loss to Marshall at home! Johnnies played UConn tough early on, but Huskies ended up pulling it out. Is it my imagination or has the level of Big East play, in particular by non-ranked original Big East teams, escalated to a new level? It's like all of a sudden the league is realizing how good it actually is and nobody wants to be the one on the couch watching the games in the Garden on TV. It's going to be a dogfight to and in the BE tourney. Based on how things are shaping up, altough UConn is clearly the top dog, the conference automatic bid is pretty much up for grabs.
And, although it has no bearing on the above, Go Cocks!! - knocking off # 4 Florida (sorry, I had the urge to use the phrase Go Cocks as I found a USC hat in my closet tonight)
And, although it has no bearing on the above, Go Cocks!! - knocking off # 4 Florida (sorry, I had the urge to use the phrase Go Cocks as I found a USC hat in my closet tonight)
Email from JTIII to all GU students
Dear Hoyas,
Saturday's game against Duke was special. The environment, the atmosphere - and theoutcome - brought back memories of Georgetown Basketball circa the early 80's.
Our fans, especially the student body, were incredible. As I've told you before, we feed off your energy and enthusiasm. You make a difference and for that the entire team thanks you.
We have six home games left starting this Saturday against Cincinnati. As we head into the heart of our BIG EAST schedule we need you more than ever. Duke was just the start; please continue to come out to the MCI Center and duplicate the environment of last Saturday. Wear your blue and gray, and bring the noise!
Thank you.
John Thompson III
Head Men's Basketball Coach
We are.....Georgetown!
Saturday's game against Duke was special. The environment, the atmosphere - and theoutcome - brought back memories of Georgetown Basketball circa the early 80's.
Our fans, especially the student body, were incredible. As I've told you before, we feed off your energy and enthusiasm. You make a difference and for that the entire team thanks you.
We have six home games left starting this Saturday against Cincinnati. As we head into the heart of our BIG EAST schedule we need you more than ever. Duke was just the start; please continue to come out to the MCI Center and duplicate the environment of last Saturday. Wear your blue and gray, and bring the noise!
Thank you.
John Thompson III
Head Men's Basketball Coach
We are.....Georgetown!
Tuesday, January 24, 2006
Win is a Win
I know a win is a win & at this juncture a conference win is big, but the final score seemed much closer than it should have been. Any particular reason the ND game was a squeaker?
Monday, January 23, 2006
Rankings
The new polls just came out. I didn't expect us to crack the top 25. But I have to say that I'm a little disappointed that we did not even get a single vote!
That basically says to me that the powers-that-be think our win was a fluke.
Definitely a slap in the face.
That basically says to me that the powers-that-be think our win was a fluke.
Definitely a slap in the face.
My Two Cents Regarding GU v. Duke
First, the obvious. It was a great game. I was almost sick to my stomach by the end of it. The entire second half my heart was just racing and my legs were tired from all of the pacing that I did. I'm glad that Jen had a baby shower that day, because I think I would have scared the crap out of her with all of my screaming and cheering.
Now, the good about the game. While I haven't seen as many JT3-era games as Diamond or IPB, this was definitely the first game that I saw where the Princeton-style offense looked good--and I mean real good. Now, the question is: are we just getting better at running it, or was Duke that bad at defending it. It seriously looked like they weren't even expecting the back-door cuts...even after the 20th time we did it. I think that one falls on Coach K.
Also, Green and Wallace looked awesome. I know that Bowman scored 23, and had the most rebounds and the most blocks, but the former two were the stars of the game. Bowman was just doing a bit of what he was supposed to do (and, FYI, it was only a 180, nopt a 360 Diamond). But more often the not his scores came off of good feeds from some one else.
Wallace may not have scored alot, but he looked like the perfect point guard. He handled the ball well, especically against the Duke full-court press. He managed the tempo of the game beautifully. And I personally think that his wrap-around, acrobatic, reverse layup was the play of the game. Whenever the team needed a presence on the court to settle them down, I felt like he provided it.
And Jeff Green finally looked like the player we saw last year. He did it all. Great passing. Shooting from the outside. Shutting Williams down inside. He just looked great. It was funny how the anouncers on CBS just fell in love with him. It was obvious that they thought he was the team's star. They just kept on saying how it was obvious why he was co-Big East Rookie of the Year last year; that he looked bigger than his listed 6-9; that he looked dangerous from anywhere on the court; and, when things looked shaky down the stretch, that "the Hoyas will be in good shape as long as they get the ball into Green's hands." It was wonderful to see the big fella' back.
All that aside, there were a few things that concerned me about the game. First, it is now obvious to me that Roy is not ready for the big time. In fact, he may never be. I know that he's worked hard in the off season, and that he looked pretty good in the easy games in the pre-Big East season, but I just don't think he has that killer instinct. With Green playing as well as he was, and with Williams in foul trouble relatively early, Roy should have been in a position to make some noise...there wasn't a lot of pressure on him. But whenever he game into the game he just looked flat and sluggish. I'm just not sure that he has the stuff to cut it against the bruising big men in the Big East. I know that all of those who post on the HoyaTalk boards are enamoured with him...but I'm not.
I'm also a little concerned with our ability to finish. Another minute in that game and we probably would not have won (heck, we might not have won if Paulus had just got the ball to Redick down the stretch). We played a near perfect game and still had some problems. It'll be interesting to see what happens (especially on the road) against some of the good teams in our own conference.
All that aside, it was a great game, and it kills me that I couldn't be there to enjoy it with the rest of you. Just a few weeks to early.
While I'm not convinced that we'll match that play in our games against Pitt, WVa, Nova, Syracuse, or even Marquette (who I, personally, think is better than an overrated 'Cuse), I can't wait to see us try. The key is going to be intensity. It's easy to get up for the #1 team in the country in a nationally televised game before a packed house...what happens when those things aren't present? That's especially going to be the case for the away games at Nova and Marquette, which I think will be huge for our post-season fate.
It's going to be an exciting February. Go Hoyas! And Diamond/IPB...save me some tickets for those later games...I'll be in DC by the 12th!
Now, the good about the game. While I haven't seen as many JT3-era games as Diamond or IPB, this was definitely the first game that I saw where the Princeton-style offense looked good--and I mean real good. Now, the question is: are we just getting better at running it, or was Duke that bad at defending it. It seriously looked like they weren't even expecting the back-door cuts...even after the 20th time we did it. I think that one falls on Coach K.
Also, Green and Wallace looked awesome. I know that Bowman scored 23, and had the most rebounds and the most blocks, but the former two were the stars of the game. Bowman was just doing a bit of what he was supposed to do (and, FYI, it was only a 180, nopt a 360 Diamond). But more often the not his scores came off of good feeds from some one else.
Wallace may not have scored alot, but he looked like the perfect point guard. He handled the ball well, especically against the Duke full-court press. He managed the tempo of the game beautifully. And I personally think that his wrap-around, acrobatic, reverse layup was the play of the game. Whenever the team needed a presence on the court to settle them down, I felt like he provided it.
And Jeff Green finally looked like the player we saw last year. He did it all. Great passing. Shooting from the outside. Shutting Williams down inside. He just looked great. It was funny how the anouncers on CBS just fell in love with him. It was obvious that they thought he was the team's star. They just kept on saying how it was obvious why he was co-Big East Rookie of the Year last year; that he looked bigger than his listed 6-9; that he looked dangerous from anywhere on the court; and, when things looked shaky down the stretch, that "the Hoyas will be in good shape as long as they get the ball into Green's hands." It was wonderful to see the big fella' back.
All that aside, there were a few things that concerned me about the game. First, it is now obvious to me that Roy is not ready for the big time. In fact, he may never be. I know that he's worked hard in the off season, and that he looked pretty good in the easy games in the pre-Big East season, but I just don't think he has that killer instinct. With Green playing as well as he was, and with Williams in foul trouble relatively early, Roy should have been in a position to make some noise...there wasn't a lot of pressure on him. But whenever he game into the game he just looked flat and sluggish. I'm just not sure that he has the stuff to cut it against the bruising big men in the Big East. I know that all of those who post on the HoyaTalk boards are enamoured with him...but I'm not.
I'm also a little concerned with our ability to finish. Another minute in that game and we probably would not have won (heck, we might not have won if Paulus had just got the ball to Redick down the stretch). We played a near perfect game and still had some problems. It'll be interesting to see what happens (especially on the road) against some of the good teams in our own conference.
All that aside, it was a great game, and it kills me that I couldn't be there to enjoy it with the rest of you. Just a few weeks to early.
While I'm not convinced that we'll match that play in our games against Pitt, WVa, Nova, Syracuse, or even Marquette (who I, personally, think is better than an overrated 'Cuse), I can't wait to see us try. The key is going to be intensity. It's easy to get up for the #1 team in the country in a nationally televised game before a packed house...what happens when those things aren't present? That's especially going to be the case for the away games at Nova and Marquette, which I think will be huge for our post-season fate.
It's going to be an exciting February. Go Hoyas! And Diamond/IPB...save me some tickets for those later games...I'll be in DC by the 12th!
Sunday, January 22, 2006
Duke game links
Interesting stuff: among other things, Deke's son will be on the team in a few years -- Ewing, Thompson, and Mutombo.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/01/21/AR2006012100759.html
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/01/21/AR2006012101423.html
http://www.washingtonpost.com//wp-dyn/content/article/2006/01/21/AR2006012101147.html
http://www.washtimes.com/sports/20060122-125539-7079r.htm
http://www.washtimes.com/sports/20060122-125540-3104r.htm
http://www.washtimes.com/sports/20060122-125541-7561r.htm
http://www.dukebasketballreport.com/summaries/index.cgi?556
http://sports.espn.go.com/ncb/columns/story?columnist=katz_andy&id=2300950
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/01/21/AR2006012100759.html
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/01/21/AR2006012101423.html
http://www.washingtonpost.com//wp-dyn/content/article/2006/01/21/AR2006012101147.html
http://www.washtimes.com/sports/20060122-125539-7079r.htm
http://www.washtimes.com/sports/20060122-125540-3104r.htm
http://www.washtimes.com/sports/20060122-125541-7561r.htm
http://www.dukebasketballreport.com/summaries/index.cgi?556
http://sports.espn.go.com/ncb/columns/story?columnist=katz_andy&id=2300950
Friday, January 20, 2006
Duke game
Doyle is picking Duke to win it. Check out this (frankly not unfair) slam on Bowman. Wow.
http://www.sportsline.com/collegebasketball/story/9176357
IPD and I will be there cheering for the blue & grey. It looks like Italian will also be making the trip. This could be a defining moment for JTIII and the program....
http://www.sportsline.com/collegebasketball/story/9176357
IPD and I will be there cheering for the blue & grey. It looks like Italian will also be making the trip. This could be a defining moment for JTIII and the program....
Tuesday, January 17, 2006
South Florida Scare
Wasn't able to listen to or track the game online. Was it as close as the score indicated?
Thursday, January 12, 2006
Did anyone see last night's game?
I missed it but it sounded from the press reports as though Pittsnogle decimated us. This is not surprising since I observed him almost single-handedly beat us in a critical contest last season. He was tough to stop then and I guess even more so now. It would have been nice to prevail but the likelihood of us winning on West Virginia's home court was slim. Hopefully we can split the season series when they visit MCI.
Wednesday, January 11, 2006
Room for Diamond's Bachelor Party
FYI - A cool venue for Diamond's sending off (i like the modifications in the bathroom).
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/multimedia/photo_gallery/2006/01/10/gallery.reilly/index.1.html?cnn=yes
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/multimedia/photo_gallery/2006/01/10/gallery.reilly/index.1.html?cnn=yes
Tuesday, January 10, 2006
Savor It Boys...
...because it probably won't last long.
Here are the Big East's standings after last night's games.
Georgetown (2-0, 10-2)
West Virginia (2-0, 10-3)
Pittsburgh (1-0, 12-0)
Syracuse (1-0, 13-2)
Rutgers (1-0, 11-3)
Cincinnati (2-1, 13-3)
Connecticut (1-1, 13-1)
Villanova (1-1, 10-1)
Louisville (1-1, 13-2)
Marquette (1-1, 11-4)
Seton Hall (1-1, 9-4)
DePaul (1-1, 8-5)
Notre Dame (0-2, 9-4)
Providence (0-2, 7-6)
St. John's (0-2, 7-6)
South Florida (0-2, 6-9)
Here are the Big East's standings after last night's games.
Georgetown (2-0, 10-2)
West Virginia (2-0, 10-3)
Pittsburgh (1-0, 12-0)
Syracuse (1-0, 13-2)
Rutgers (1-0, 11-3)
Cincinnati (2-1, 13-3)
Connecticut (1-1, 13-1)
Villanova (1-1, 10-1)
Louisville (1-1, 13-2)
Marquette (1-1, 11-4)
Seton Hall (1-1, 9-4)
DePaul (1-1, 8-5)
Notre Dame (0-2, 9-4)
Providence (0-2, 7-6)
St. John's (0-2, 7-6)
South Florida (0-2, 6-9)
Sunday, January 08, 2006
DJ takes down SJ.
Owens was amazing and our offense looked sharp. The defense had some lapses and Roy and Jeff were quiet but this was a good win, and it was nice to get some revenge for last year's debacle. I hope Jeff and Stallion saw it in person. Bring on the Mountaineers!
Friday, January 06, 2006
Providence recap
The IPB will probably want to weigh in with his own thoughts later. I think we performed adequately and beat a bad team the way we should have. The first half was probably as bad as we've played all season. We had 15 turnovers -- probably 10-12 of which were totally unforced. It looked like someone slipped the team codeine before the game. The second half we looked strong and tore apart Providence. Every time they made a charge, we answered. We definitely seem to be a second half team, the Vandy debacle aside. I hope that we can limit the long stretches of ineffectiveness though. As for the players, Roy looked horrible in the first half and sharp in the second half. He pulled down monster boards and had some nice blocks. Brandon also had a double-double in what was probably his strongest performance of the year. I only counted two "Bad Brandons" and saw many "Good Brandons." Ashanti made a bunch of huge plays and sparked the second half run but he was also largely responsible for the first half deficit. JW also had a pretty good second half, hitting some key shots. Green was MIA for most of the game. He never makes mistakes and tends to contribute in small ways but he's still not asserting himself like he did last year. Roy is now the focus of the offense and that seems to have really taken him off of his game. That said, he hit two big free throws down the stretch to secure the lead and pulled down a couple of monster boards. We didn't see much from the freshmen. Egerson didn't have a great game; Sapp played okay. As a side note, the refs were horrible again. One, in particular, was just embarrassing, but the bad calls went both ways.
St. John's is a must win, like this one was. We can't afford losses against the bottom of the league. Hopefully, Italian and Jeff will give us a post-game.
St. John's is a must win, like this one was. We can't afford losses against the bottom of the league. Hopefully, Italian and Jeff will give us a post-game.
Tuesday, January 03, 2006
Where we're at.
Okay, so 8-2 is probably about what we expected going into conference play. I had hoped for 9-1 with the only loss being to Illinois; the loss to Vandy stings but we haven't really hurt ourselves. The wins at UTEP and Oregon are solid but not spectacular. Our current RPI is 86 -- this will naturally get stronger through league play (plus Duke), unless we lose a lot of games. The next five games are crucial. The home games against Providence and South Florida are must wins against clearly weaker opponents. Likewise, St. John's on the road should be a "w," although they've given us fits in recent years, including last year's backbreaker. The two other, at UConn and West Virginia, will be tough. 3-2 coming out of this stretcher and going into Duke would be fine. But we really can't afford to do any worse. I'm hoping for 4-1 b/c I think that West Virginia is not as strong as advertised. IPB and I will be there on Thursday. Bring on the Friars!
In personal news, I met the IPB's latest victim last night. She seems lovely, but unfortunately she is neither a Hoyas nor Celtics fan; I didn't ask about Bill Bradley or Chris Matthews.
Also, over the break I got engaged to a Texan. No date has been announced but we can start discussing the bachelor party -- hopefully, an event with the exotic flare of Jester's and the nudity/drunkenness of Italian's.
BTW: Any job news Jester? I enjoyed the X-mas letter. Which judges did you argue before?
Final topic of discussion: how do we get IPB and Jeff to read and post on the blog. Any suggestions? I've been thinking that we must have some pretty embarrassing photos that could be posted to coerce participation.
In personal news, I met the IPB's latest victim last night. She seems lovely, but unfortunately she is neither a Hoyas nor Celtics fan; I didn't ask about Bill Bradley or Chris Matthews.
Also, over the break I got engaged to a Texan. No date has been announced but we can start discussing the bachelor party -- hopefully, an event with the exotic flare of Jester's and the nudity/drunkenness of Italian's.
BTW: Any job news Jester? I enjoyed the X-mas letter. Which judges did you argue before?
Final topic of discussion: how do we get IPB and Jeff to read and post on the blog. Any suggestions? I've been thinking that we must have some pretty embarrassing photos that could be posted to coerce participation.
Wednesday, December 21, 2005
GU v. Savannah State (at the half)
We are up 19 at the half.
That is far too close.
We better turn in on in the second half.
That is far too close.
We better turn in on in the second half.
Tuesday, December 20, 2005
Muir cans Benson!
Joe Lange he is not:
http://guhoyas.collegesports.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/122005aaa.html
I wonder if he has a Golden Domer in mind for the job.
http://guhoyas.collegesports.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/122005aaa.html
I wonder if he has a Golden Domer in mind for the job.
Monday, December 19, 2005
Things I'm Happy For This Holiday Season.
Well, I guess I really should have titled this post "thing I'm happy for this holiday season," because I'm only going to discuss one of them.
This Wednesday, December 21, 2005, our beloved Hoyas take on the Tigers of Savannah State. This makes me very happy. Why? Because in a preseason of much needed tough games (none that really went our way), this has got to be the easiest game ever. Now, Georgetown would be foolhardy to look past the Tigers to the looming Big East conference season--but that's just because you should never look past any team. The fact of that matter is that Savannah State is horrible.
The Tigers are currently 1-9. Now, lest you be unimpressed by that number let's examine some of those losses. Because I believe in comparing apples to apples, and oranges to oranges, I think the best way to judge how bad they are is to look at how they fared against a common opponent. We only had one common opponent.
Earlier this year the mighty Tigers took on Oregon. Now, Orgeon is a solid program. But they are going to be in the bottom half of the Pac-10 this year; that's just the way the cookie crumbles. They aren't a joke, but they're not a great team either. That being said, the fact that the Ducks aren't a "great team" didn't stop them from beating Savannah State by 60. Yes, you heard/read me correctly--60. Six, zero. We beat those same Ducks by 14. That's a 74 point difference in our performances.
It kind of makes you feel bad for Wiberforce, which is the only school that has lost to Savannah State this year. If you play for Wiberforce you have to ask yourself "how did we lose to Savannah State...we can't be that bad. We're Wiberforce for crying out loud." (You should also ask yourself "how in the hell did I end up at a school named 'Wiberforce'? It sounds like the German version of what Obi-wan taught Luke.")
All I have to say is that I'm pretty sure that we're not Wiberforce, I'm happy that we're playing Savannah State this holiday season, and if I can find a sports book where the spread on the Hoyas is less than 30 I'm plopping down a major chunk of change.
Merry Christmas everyone!
This Wednesday, December 21, 2005, our beloved Hoyas take on the Tigers of Savannah State. This makes me very happy. Why? Because in a preseason of much needed tough games (none that really went our way), this has got to be the easiest game ever. Now, Georgetown would be foolhardy to look past the Tigers to the looming Big East conference season--but that's just because you should never look past any team. The fact of that matter is that Savannah State is horrible.
The Tigers are currently 1-9. Now, lest you be unimpressed by that number let's examine some of those losses. Because I believe in comparing apples to apples, and oranges to oranges, I think the best way to judge how bad they are is to look at how they fared against a common opponent. We only had one common opponent.
Earlier this year the mighty Tigers took on Oregon. Now, Orgeon is a solid program. But they are going to be in the bottom half of the Pac-10 this year; that's just the way the cookie crumbles. They aren't a joke, but they're not a great team either. That being said, the fact that the Ducks aren't a "great team" didn't stop them from beating Savannah State by 60. Yes, you heard/read me correctly--60. Six, zero. We beat those same Ducks by 14. That's a 74 point difference in our performances.
It kind of makes you feel bad for Wiberforce, which is the only school that has lost to Savannah State this year. If you play for Wiberforce you have to ask yourself "how did we lose to Savannah State...we can't be that bad. We're Wiberforce for crying out loud." (You should also ask yourself "how in the hell did I end up at a school named 'Wiberforce'? It sounds like the German version of what Obi-wan taught Luke.")
All I have to say is that I'm pretty sure that we're not Wiberforce, I'm happy that we're playing Savannah State this holiday season, and if I can find a sports book where the spread on the Hoyas is less than 30 I'm plopping down a major chunk of change.
Merry Christmas everyone!
Wednesday, December 14, 2005
Tuesday, December 13, 2005
New Bracketology
Granted it's early in the season (even Joe Lunardi notes this fact), but in the latest edition of Bracketology the Hoyas have falled from their preseason NCAA seeding to a projected NIT team. I think the next few games going into the conference schedule will be very important down the stretch.
Monday, December 12, 2005
Big gift to SFS
$20 million; not bad but we NEED a lot more of that. (Interesting that it referred to the gift as the second largest in GU history. I assume that largest was Bob McDonough's $30 million but what happened to Virginia Toulmin's $60+ million endowment?; I suppose she hasn't officially given it yet.)
http://explore.georgetown.edu/news/?ID=11856
Update
Post article: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2005/12/12/AR2005121200591.html
http://explore.georgetown.edu/news/?ID=11856
Update
Post article: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2005/12/12/AR2005121200591.html
Monday, December 05, 2005
Week 5 Rankings
Though I knew we would not be ranked in the top 25, I was sad to see that Georgetown did not--unlike in the previous weeks' rankings--get any votes for inclusion in the top 25.
Thursday, December 01, 2005
Oregon v. Vandy
FYI - Oregon is now 3-1 after losing their game last night to Vandy. Just based on the scoring breakdown, their loss seemed much like Georgetown's loss. The Ducks outscored Vandy by 5 in the first half, and then Vandy turned it around to outscore Oregon by 6 in the second half, winning the game by one.
Should be a good match-up on Saturday.
Should be a good match-up on Saturday.
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