With About Two Minutes Left in the ballgame and Washington leading the Indiana Fever, 59-57, Comcast's play-by-play announcer, Frank Hanrahan, verbalized the question Mystics fans -- in the arena and those watching at home (including the BCs) -- were asking themselves, "Can they close out?"A 13-foot jumper by Jessica Davenport and a buzzer-beating lay-up by Shannon Bobbitt answered THE question. No.
Another hard-fought, close game for the Mystics . . . this time against the first place team in the East. But the result was the same . . . a disappointing, last minute loss, at home. Final score: Fever 61, Mystics 59.
We really feel bad for the Mystics players. Matee (19 points) and Lang (17 points) played their hearts out and outscored the Fever's All Stars. Still, it was not enough.
What more can we say? Four close games in a row (three of them at home). Four final-minute (or, in tonight's case, final-second) losses. Season record: 3-14. (Karma?)
Thankfully for the players (and their fans), the Mystics now have a week off to try to figure it all out.
Next up: the Mystics host the Liberty next Saturday (August 6, 7 PM) at the Phone Booth.
No Finish . . . AgainFor the third straight game, the Mystics came within inches of the finish line only to stumble down the stretch.
Tonight's failure took place at the Prudential Center in New Jersey, as the Mystics lost to the Liberty, 75-71, in their first meeting of the season. Another close, tightly contested, and winnable game . . . that the Mystics didn't find a way to win.
Of course it didn't help the Mystics' cause that a made basket was taken away on a very questionable charge call (on Kerri Gardin) in the final minute. Had the call gone the other way, that would've given Washington a one-point lead (plus the and-one) with about half a minute remaining. Still, the Mystics had another chance to finally close out a game. Down by 2, they got the ball back with enough time left (9 seconds) to tie or take the lead. But Jasmine Thomas threw the ball away, and that was the game. Turnovers happen, and Jas is a rookie. We understand that. What we have a harder time understanding is why Kelly Miller, an experienced veteran -- who had a hot hand tonight (17 points) -- was cooling her heels on the bench during the crucial final four-and-a-half minutes of the game.
The Mystics have now dropped to 3-13, and can no longer even equal their 2010 regular season record. Tomorrow (Friday) night, they return home for the second half of their back-to-back, and will take on the Indiana Fever, which has beaten them in the two games they've played this season.
Shabazz Napier has been selected as one of 21 players to compete at the 2011 USA Basketball Men's World University Games training camp starting Friday and running through Aug. 7. He'll be competing for one of 12 spots on the team that will represent the USA at the World University Games Aug. 13-22 in Shenzhen, China.
UConn's Alex Oriakhi has withdrawn from camp, but it is not injury-related, according to a UConn spokesman.
Orange's Greg Mangano of Yale and Farmington's Tim Abromaitis will also be trying out for the team.
Here's the press release:
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (July 28, 2011) – It was announced today by USA Basketball that UConn sophomore guard Shabazz Napier (Randolph, Mass.) has been selected as one of 21 athletes to compete at the 2011 USA Basketball Men’s World University Games Team training camp.
The training camp, which will be held July 29-Aug. 7 at the U.S. Olympic Training Center (USOTC), will be used to select the 12-member team that will represent the USA at the 2011 World University Games men’s basketball competition Aug. 13-22 in Shenzhen, China.
“I’m excited to get to Colorado Springs and get our training camp started,” said USA and Purdue University head mentor Matt Painter, who previously assisted the 2009 USA U19 World Championship Team to a gold medal. “I love to coach the game of basketball, and we’ve got a group of young men coming in whom I’m really looking forward to working with. This should be a fun and beneficial experience for everyone involved.
“As a coach, I’m always looking for guys who play hard, take care of the ball and make good decisions,” Painter continued. “When you do those three things, you’re usually pretty successful. Other than that, we’ll look to see how different guys fit together on and off the court, and how guys’ skill sets complement each other.”
The USA Basketball Men’s Junior National Team Committee, chaired by Jim Boeheim (head coach, Syracuse University), is expected on July 31 to announce finalists for the 2011 USA World University Games Team. Training camp will continue July 31-Aug. 7 at the USOTC, and the official roster will be announced prior to the team’s departure for China on Aug. 8.
Napier finished his rookie campaign averaging 7.8 points, 3.0 assists and 1.6 steals per game and was selected to the BIG EAST All-Rookie Team.
USA Basketball also announced it has added guards Ray McCallum (Detroit Mercy/Beverly Hills, Mich.) and Shabazz Napier (Connecticut/Randolph, Mass.) to the training camp roster, while Tu Holloway (Xavier/Hempstead, N.Y.), Alex Oriakhi (Connecticut/Lowell, Mass.) and Jordan Taylor (Wisconsin/Bloomington, Minn.) have withdrawn from participating in training camp.
Along with McCallum and Napier, also participating in the 2011 USA Basketball Men’s World University Games Team Training Camp are: Tim Abromaitis (Notre Dame/Unionville, Conn.); Bradford Burgess (VCU/Midlothian, Va.); Marcus Denmon (Missouri/Kansas City, Mo.); Kim English (Missouri/Baltimore, Md.); Yancy Gates (Cincinnati/ Cincinnati, Ohio); Ashton Gibbs (Pittsburgh/Scotch Plains, N.J.); Draymond Green (Michigan State/Saginaw, Mich.); JaMychal Green (Alabama/Montgomery, Ala.); Scoop Jardine (Syracuse/Philadelphia, Pa.); John Jenkins (Vanderbilt/Hendersonville, Tenn.); Orlando Johnson (UC Santa Barbara/Seaside, Calif.); Greg Mangano (Yale/Orange, Conn.); Trevor Mbakwe (Minnesota/St. Paul, Minn.); C.J. McCollum (Lehigh/ Canton, Ohio); Khris Middleton (Texas A&M/North Charleston, S.C.); Darius Miller (Kentucky/Maysville, Ky.); Tony Mitchell (Alabama/Swainsboro, Ga.); Aaric Murray (West Virginia/Philadelphia, Pa.); and John Shurna (Northwestern/Glen Ellyn, Ill.).
Collegiate head coaches Cuonzo Martin of the University of Tennessee and Brad Stevens of Butler University were named as assistant coaches for the 2011 USA Men’s World University games team, and Tony Bennett (University of Virginia), Sean Miller (University of Arizona) and Shaka Smart (Virginia Commonwealth University) are serving as court coaches during the team’s training camp.
Five of the players possess prior USA Basketball experience. Jardine and Shurna were members of the USA Select Team that trained against the 2010 USA Men’s National Team in Las Vegas.
Gibbs, Miller and Shurna helped the USA to a gold medal and 9-0 record at the 2009 FIBA U19 World Championship, and JaMychal Green was a member of the 2008 U.S. team that captured a 4-1 record and silver medal at the 2008 FIBA Americas U18 Championship.
The training camp roster features two players – Abromaitis and Jardine – who graduated in 2011 with remaining eligibility, 12 athletes from the class of 2012, five athletes who will graduate in 2013 and two players – McCallum and Napier – who recently completed their freshman seasons and will graduate in 2014.
Nine NCAA conferences are represented on the training roster, including six schools from the Big East Conference, three schools from the Big Ten Conference and the Southeastern Conference (SEC), two schools from the Big 12 Conference and one program apiece from the Big West Conference, Colonial Athletic Association (CAA), Horizon League, Ivy League and Patriot League.
Sixteen players earned individual recognition from their respective conferences following the
2010-11 season, including the Big East Scholar Athlete of the Year, Abromaitis, and the Horizon League Newcomer of the Year, McCallum.
Listing on their conference first teams were: Denmon (Big 12), Gibbs (Big East), JaMychal Green (SEC), Jenkins (SEC), Johnson (Big West), Mangano (Ivy League) and McCollum (Patriot League).
Second team members included: Mbawke (Big Ten), McCallum (Horizon), Middleton (Big 12) and Mitchell (SEC).
Third team selections were: Abromaitis (Big East), Draymond Green (Big Ten) and Shurna (Big Ten).
Additionally, Jardine (Big East) was an honorable mention, and Napier listed on the Big East
All-Rookie team.
In addition to Boeheim, the 2009-12 USA Basketball Men’s Junior National Committee includes NCAA appointees Lorenzo Romar (head coach, University of Washington), Bruce Weber (head coach, University of Illinois) and Roy Williams (head coach, University of North Carolina); and athlete representative Jay Williams, a member of the 2002 USA World Championship Team.
World University Games
The 2011 World University Games men’s basketball competition will be held Aug. 13-22 in Shenzhen, China. In all, 24 countries will compete in the international competition.
The USA has been slotted into Pool D, along with Finland, Hungary, Israel, Mexico and South Korea. The red, white and blue will open play against Mexico at 6:00 p.m. on Aug. 13 (all times listed are China Standard Time, which is +12 hours from Eastern Time) and will then play Hungary at 3:30 p.m. on Aug. 14; South Korea at 3:30 p.m. on Aug. 15; Finland at 6:00 p.m. on Aug. 17; and Israel at 3:30 p.m. on Aug. 18.
Following the preliminary round, the top two teams in the standings from each pool will advance to the medal quarterfinals, which will be contested on Aug. 20. The semifinals are on Aug. 21, and the finals will be played on Aug. 22.
The World University Games are held every other year and are organized by the International University Sports Federation (FISU). The World University Games is a multi-sport competition open to men and women who are between the ages of 17 and 24 (born between January 1, 1987 and December 31, 1993), and is or has been within the past year, a student at a college or university.
The United States, which has claimed a medal in every World University Games since beginning play in 1965, has captured a record 13 golds, three silvers and three bronze medals in the 19 WUGs in which a USA Basketball squad has competed, and the U.S. owns a 131-8 record in the event. Most recently, the USA men earned the bronze medal after finishing 6-1 and suffering a one-point loss to Russia in the semifinals.
Eighteen players who have represented the USA in the World University Games have gone on to compete in the Olympic Games, including Ray Allen, Stacey Augmon, Charles Barkley, Larry Bird, Bill Bradley, Quinn Buckner, Tom Burleson, Ken Davis, Tim Duncan, Phil Hubbard, Allen Iverson, Mitch Kupchak, Karl Malone, Michael Redd, Mitch Richmond, Michael Silliman, Steve Smith and Jo Jo White.
Some of Our Readers Were Wondering why the BCs didn't post about the Mystics' game Tuesday night against San Antonio.Well, the truth is we actually started a short post, but we were so inspired after writing about paneling that we decided to paint part of our basement . . . and ran out of time for our blog. So, like the Mystics (against the Silver Stars and against the Dream before them), we just couldn't finish.
But in case you're interested, we can easily summarize what we would have written (if we weren't sidetracked by spackling, sanding and stringing blue tape everywhere): this was another close -- and winnable -- home game that the Mystics couldn't quite close out. The link to yesterday's Washington Post game report is here.
In case you do read the linked article, we feel obligated to call attention to what we believe, after nearly 14 full seasons of sitting in the Phone Booth and looking at the attendance numbers, is one gross inaccuracy: the statement by the reporter, Shemar Woods, that the Mystics suffered "a 73-67 loss in front of 11,331 at Verizon Center." Uhhh, 11,331 at Verizon Center? Utter and complete fantasy! (We were there.) While we do understand that the "reported" attendance is not the same as the "fannies in the seats" number, how the Mystics come up with these "attendance" figures reporting big increases in attendance over last season, we honestly do not know. Perhaps thousands of free ticket giveaways? And/or thousands of tickets given to corporate sponsors (which mostly are going unused)? Who knows? But the one thing we do know is that while the Mystics front office may have some rationale for what seems to us to be their (extremely) creative accounting of reported attendance, the Mystics team was not playing "in front of" 11,331 fans. Not even close. OK . . . end of rant. (Although we reserve the right to resurrect this one at a later date.)
As our astute readers noted in their comments to our previous post, not all the action in the last week took place on the court. Apparently GM/HC Trudi's commitment to rebuilding with a core of young players cracked under the weight of mounting losses. The Mystics waived rookie Karima Christmas (who immediately found a new home with the Tulsa Shock), and also waived 6'6" rookie Ta'Shia Phillips. Ta'Shia, as you may recall, is the player the Mystics instructed Atlanta to draft with their first round pick (number 8 overall), and ship off to DC as part of the Lindsey Harding trade. Fortunately for Ta'Shia, she also found a new home . . . instantly. She is now a member of the New York Liberty. Those two youngsters' spots on the roster have been filled with a couple of older players, 3-year veteran Kerri Gardin and 11-year veteran DeMya Walker. So it seems that Mystics fans can "waive" goodbye to the youth development movement.
Speaking of "New York": the Mystics face the Liberty tonight (Thursday) in the Libs' three-year temporary home: New Jersey's Prudential Center (WNBA Live Access at 7 PM). For the Mystics, this is the first half of a back-to-back. Tomorrow (Friday), Washington hosts the Indiana Fever at the Phone Booth. (Given that it will be a Friday night game against an opponent with a couple of popular All Stars --Tamika Catchings and Katie Douglas -- the BCs predict that the Mystics tomorrow will be playing in front of a (reported) crowd of 13 or maybe even 15 thousand. So arrive early and be prepared for long lines at the refreshment stands and the rest rooms!)
But we digress . . . returning to the subject of mounting losses: the Mystics, having picked up their 12th loss of the season on Tuesday, have now equalled the total number of losses they suffered during the entire 2010 regular season. In other words, just to finish with the same record as last year, the Mystics need to run the table, beginning with a win tonight followed by 18 more wins . . . in a row. Is that impossible? Not exactly. But if you asked the BCs which was more likely right now: a Mystics 19-game winning streak or the Tea Party advocating for a tax increase . . . well, let's just say we wouldn't be betting on the Mystics.
HersheyPark has launched another massive online viral campaign for their new 2012 roller coaster. Everything is pretty much spelled out up to this point here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Attraction_2012_%28Hersheypark%29
Here's the information on the actual ride that is all but confirmed at this point:
Height: 212
Angle of first drop: 85 degrees
Color codes:
"pastel blue" (supports)
"traffic yellow" (tracks)
"Night Blue" (train)Hershey trademarked the name "SkyRush" (although this is not the "confirmed" name quite yet). There is also a heavy military-type theme shaping up....like a "test pilot" type feel.
Also, a fuzzy image the coaster was released, and it essentially looks like a mini I305. It seems there is still a rumor that it could be a wingrider-style ride, although my bet is on a standard sit-down coaster.
A new clue was released today revealing the message: In the end only 4 will ride. Looks like this is a contest to be the first to ride the new coaster. Can't wait to see the final layout renderings (though I hope they hold off on those until a little while after vertical construction has begun. I love trying to figure out the layout just from the pictures of the footers). Figure out the next clue for yourself:
Here's the information on the actual ride that is all but confirmed at this point:
Height: 212
Angle of first drop: 85 degrees
Color codes:
"pastel blue" (supports)
"traffic yellow" (tracks)
"Night Blue" (train)Hershey trademarked the name "SkyRush" (although this is not the "confirmed" name quite yet). There is also a heavy military-type theme shaping up....like a "test pilot" type feel.
 |
| Possible layout? |
Also, a fuzzy image the coaster was released, and it essentially looks like a mini I305. It seems there is still a rumor that it could be a wingrider-style ride, although my bet is on a standard sit-down coaster.
A new clue was released today revealing the message: In the end only 4 will ride. Looks like this is a contest to be the first to ride the new coaster. Can't wait to see the final layout renderings (though I hope they hold off on those until a little while after vertical construction has begun. I love trying to figure out the layout just from the pictures of the footers). Figure out the next clue for yourself:
Panel DiscussionThe BCs have heard a lot of griping from fans about an event the Mystics are hosting tomorrow evening (Tuesday) prior to the tip-off against the Silver Stars. Frankly, we don't understand what all the complaining's about.
Fans have been invited to an hour of pre-game networking followed by a panel discussion with Mystics owners Sheila Johnson and Ted Leonsis, as well as new WNBA President Laurel Richie. The cost is only $70, and it includes a ticket to the 7 PM game. It's $60 if you purchase the event ticket in advance, and $40 if you are a season ticketholder.
So why are people griping? Well, it seems quite a few fans think the team owners and WNBA Prez shouldn't be charging for a fan event. But the BCs think the people saying this don't appreciate the value of the opportunity being offered here.
Perhaps because paneling was a major part of our decision to purchase our first home, we "get" how important a panel discussion really is. Way back then, we looked at a lot of townhouses of similar design. But the one in which the basement paneling had been painted white . . . that was the one we ultimately bought. It would never have occurred to us to paint over wood paneling, but you can't believe what a difference it made . . . how the white color just brightened up the room, and actually made the basement seem bigger.
So those of you who don't think tomorrow's event will provide enough bang for your buck, think again. Sheila and Ted are both fabulously wealthy. Who knows how many houses they own between them. In all those houses, collectively, how much paneling do you think they have? We don't know, but we're thinking . . . A LOT. So who better to discuss paneling than Sheila and Ted? (We don't know what President Richie's background in paneling is, but we're guessing, it's extensive . . . otherwise, why would she be part of this event?)
We know there are people out there who just like to complain, but the BCs are not among them. So take our advice: stop all the griping! If you have a paneling issue, or just want to learn more about paneling for future reference, ante up your $70. We guarantee you won't be sorry.
LwcatWT Administrator
Coach Cal has been magnificient in recruiting 3 straight #1 classes. However, thus far UK has not recruited a single player for 2012....they only have Ryan Harrow, a transfer from NC St.
Yes, we know that some recruits are waiting longer.... especially to see if the NBA will introduce a 2 yr. requirement for freshmen....and how would this affect UK's current terrific freshmen class.
Currently, only 10 of the top 35 ranked recruits in Rivals have commited to a college....so there still a lot of top recruits out there.....with many listing UK among schools they are considering.
The problem coach Cal has is that there could possibly be a huge loss from this seasons roster.....both in experience and talent.
For example: We know UK is losing Miller and Vargus who are both seniors. In addition, it is virtually assured that both Jones and Lamb will opt for the NBA. Add also the possibly that 2-3 of this season's freshmen class could also leave....that being Teague, Gilchrist and Davis.
So we know at least 4 players on this seasons roster are gone....Miller, Vargus, Jones and Lamb. It could reach as high as 7 players leaving depending on the year the freshmen have this season. My guess is that the number will be at least 5 players leaving and probably 6-7 players.
Now in losing Miller and Lamb....UK loses great experience and the two best perimeter shooters. Losing Jones off the frontline is a huge loss. In Davis, Gilchrist and Teague....UK has 3 of the most talented to play for UK. Any of these players leaving would be a tremendous loss in talent.
So, the likely roster for 2012 now would likely be Harrow, Beckham, Wiltjer, Poole and Hood( if he recovers OK from his ACL injury). The other 3 freshmen are a big question mark, but maybe one will return, but all 3 could easily leave. Of course, there could be a transfer out as well.
No, I'm not sweating bullets, but I am concerned that even as great a recruiter as coach Cal is.....replacing the likely talent and experience leaving would be a huge challenge for any coach. Bottom line, I believe that 2012 recruiting is placing great pressure on coach Cal. As I said, there are still a lot of highly ranked recruits still on the board, but Cal would need to bring in at least 5 very good recruits in 2012....if he falls short, UK talent will take a fall in 2012.
Hopefully, Cal can garner an early commitment or two to start the ball rolling. Unfortunately Cal is a victim of his own success as 2012 recruits looking at UK are worried about playing time not knowing which of UK's great freshmen might return.
If any coach in America can replenish what is likely a huge turnover in roster...it's coach Cal....but it won't be easy. Get er done Cal!
Have you ever wondered what a work instruction manual for a roller coaster entails? First of all, what am I even talking about? Well, a roller coaster or amusement park ride manufacturer creates a manual of how to safely operate and inspect their thrill machine. This is basically a work instruction book given to the park and contains all of the preventive maintenance steps as well, safe operating procedures, and anything else needed to maintain the ride. Some of these handbooks even contain mechanical drawings and engineering calculations!So what does one of these manuals look like? Well, it just so happens that I have been able to find one on the internet and will share it with you. You can download the pdf here. You might learn a thing or to about how a roller coaster works! Be sure to check out some of our other diagrams.
Roller Coaster Maintenance and Mechanical Components Handbook.pdf download
Jeremy Lamb had 32 points and 13 rebounds and DeAndre Daniels went for 26 and seven to lead Little Caeser Slam to a 121-109 win over Sparks Motor Naughty Boyz Saturday night in Greater Hartford Pro-Am action.
Chaz Williams of UMass had 32 points and five assists for Naughty Boys and Maurice Eastwood added 26 points and nine boards.
Chaz Williams of UMass had 32 points and five assists for Naughty Boys and Maurice Eastwood added 26 points and nine boards.
Here's my feature from today's Register on Jeremy Lamb, who appears even more athletic and confident this summer and is ready to assume a leadership role on this year's Huskies team.
And here, Register columnist Dave Solomon offers some insight on the Jeff Hathaway situation, which appears to be heading towards a divorce with the school.
And here, Register columnist Dave Solomon offers some insight on the Jeff Hathaway situation, which appears to be heading towards a divorce with the school.
Lions, Fires & Back in those
For several seasons, Carolyn was there, game in and game out, sitting crossed-legged on the floor right in front of our baseline seats next to the Visitors' Bench. Countless times every game, she jumped up and down . . . collecting and distributing players' warmups, handing out towels, passing out cups of Gatorade. We chatted with Carolyn quite a lot during those summers. Though still a teenager, she impressed us as a lovely, self-confident young lady. She was friendly, dependable, and a great representive of the Mystics organization. And like so many of the girls in the arena, she aspired to play college basketball.
Being a "towel girl" wasn't, of course, a career internship or resume-building summer job, but Carolyn did it well, and always with a smile. The BCs have seen a lot of towel girls -- and boys -- over the years, but Carolyn set the standard . . . she was our All Star at that position.
Eventually, Carolyn went off to college, and we lost touch. A decade went by. Then, sometime in the last year or so, we saw her on the local news . . . a would-be passenger (headed for Africa!) stranded at National Airport during a weather shut-down. There was "our" Carolyn . . . all grown up!
But imagine our (delighted) surprise, when back in February of this year, the BCs opened the Washington Post Style section and saw Carolyn again . . . this time nominated for a Grammy!! Yes, from Mystics towel girl to Grammy nominee!! Carolyn (whose web site is here) didn't win the Grammy -- this time-- but still, just to be nominated . . . how cool is that?!!
And then today -- in the Washington Post Weekend Section -- there's a big picture of Carolyn again and a full page article about her! Headlining tonight at Neo Soul Beat Night at Carter Barron. That Carolyn has come so wonderfully far since we first knew her makes us feel a bit old, but mostly it makes us feel happy . . . for Carolyn. Even when she was a high-schooler, we knew she was exceptional. Now we have proof! So talented. So special. Carolyn, the BCs are proud of you!
P.S. Back in those early days of the WNBA, when towels carried team logos and not the name of a sponsor like Gatorade, Carolyn's job included the daunting task of preventing fans (like the BCs and others in our row) from walking off with official Mystics-logo-branded player towels. Carolyn knew we would never do anything to get her in trouble. So our faux efforts to "steal" a towel were kind of a little game we all played with her. But at the last game of the season, after the final buzzer sounded (when those Mystics-logo towels were no longer needed for the players) . . . well, let's just say that certain limited-edition linens came into the BCs' possession, and no amount of coercion will get us to tell anyone
UK Football Coach Joker Phillips speaks at the 2011 SEC Media Days.
UConn target Mitch McGary is one of the first dozen players selected to participate in the sixth annual Bost Mobile Elite 24 event, a premier summer showcase to be held on the Venice Beach courts in Los Angeles Aug. 26-27.
The Mystics Put on a Good Show for the kiddies at the team's annual lunch-time classic today. A highly competitive see-saw battle right up until the final couple of minutes. Nevertheless, after 40 minutes of hard work, the Mystics still found themselves on the wrong end of the teeter totter, losing to the Dream, 86-79.The camp counselors had to be thrilled. The kiddies, well-equipped with red and white plastic clappers (made in China), did plenty of clapping, cheering and (of course) screaming. What they weren't doing was fidgeting or misbehaving. The game was exciting . . . and entertaining. Considering how truly disgusting the weather was outside today (mid-90s and humid), indoor air-conditioned Mystics Camp Day was manna from heaven for campers and counselors alike.
Once again, the game began with Lang carrying the Mystics offensively until her teammates managed to warm up. Crystal scored 14 of Washington's 22 first quarter points. The Mystics led by 3 at the end of ten minutes, and took a 1-point lead into the locker room at halftime.
In the second half, Marissa really heated up, scoring 11 points in the 3rd quarter, including three buckets from beyond the arc. But although Atlanta was playing the second half of a back-to-back and dressed only 8 players, the Mystics couldn't quite shake loose of Angel McCoughtry or the rest of the Dream. The teams were tied at the end of three periods, 63-63. More of the same in the final period . . . a tight see-saw contest. Finally, with under a minute and a half remaining, the Dream broke a 78-78 tie, and held on to claim the win.
Lang led the Mystics with 24 points (and 10 boards, for another double-double). Marissa wasn't far behind, finishing with 21. Nicky did the dirty work in the paint, grabbing a game-high 14 rebounds. But unfortunately for the Mystics and their fans, Angel McCoughtry had one of her all-too-familiar big games, leading all scorers with 33 points. Lindsey Harding added 14 for Atlanta in her first trip back to the Phone Booth after changing uniforms. (The BCs sure do miss her!)
At the risk of sounding a little like a broken record (for our readers old enough to remember vinyl), it was a good effort today from the Mystics . . . just not good enough for a W. With back-to-back victories over the Fever and the Mystics, Atlanta (at 6-9) is beginning to climb back into playoff contention. Meanwhile, the Mystics (at 3-11 after today's loss) have solidified their claim on last place in the Eastern Conference standings.
All of the Mystics (except for Lang) will now get a little time off before hosting San Antonio next Tuesday night. Lang, who was named yesterday to the 2011 WNBA All Star Team, will be traveling to San Antonio this weekend to play for the East in this season's showcase of the League's top talent. You can catch the game on ABC at 3:30 PM on Saturday. Congratulations and good luck to Lang! Go East!
Kentucky released a statement a minutes ago via UKAthleticsNews twitter, stating that junior Jon Hood tore his ACL in a pickup game Monday and will undergo surgery once the inflammation subsides. The statement said, there is no timetable for his return. We at Wildcats Thunder wish Jon the best along with a healthy recovery.
UKAthleticsNews Kentucky Athletics
Hood's surgery will be scheduled once the inflammation subsides and there is no timetable on his return at this time.
UKAthleticsNews Kentucky Athletics
UK men’s basketball junior guard Jon Hood suffered a torn right ACL playing in a pick-up basketball game on Monday.
Karl Hobbs has been named UConn's new director of basketball administration. Here's the release sent out by UConn:
Karl Hobbs has been named to the position of Director of Men’s Basketball Administration at the University of Connecticut, it was announced today by head coach Jim Calhoun. Hobbs spent the previous ten seasons as the head coach at George Washington University.
“I am very excited to have Karl rejoin our staff here at UConn,” said Calhoun. “Karl is a proven professional and is a Husky. He will be a great fit and I know that the team and staff will benefit from his return.”
“I am blessed with the opportunity to work with such incredible coaches, administrators and student-athletes,” said Hobbs. “I consider everyone at UConn to be family to me and I take great pride in returning under the tutelage of such a phenomenal Hall of Famer and mentor in Coach Calhoun. I credit Coach for so much of the success that I have had in my career and to be back working for him is a thrill. It is an exciting time to be at UConn, under the direction of new President Susan Herbst, and I have such gratitude and respect for Jeff Hathaway and the impact that he has had on my career. I look forward to getting started and jumping in with both feet, getting to know the players and reconnecting with the many people still on the staff from my previous time on campus.”
In his ten seasons at GW, Hobbs led the Colonials to unprecedented heights, capturing a pair of Atlantic 10 Tournament titles, one regular season championship and making five postseason appearances, including three straight NCAA Tournament trips from 2004-06. Hobbs compiled a record of 166-129 in his ten seasons.
Hobbs spent the 1993-94 through 2000-01 seasons as an assistant coach for UConn, helping the Huskies earn five BIG EAST Regular Season titles, three BIG EAST Tournament crowns and the 1999 NCAA National Championship. UConn had a record of 216-56 in his eight seasons on the staff.
A native of Roxbury, MA, Hobbs attended Connecticut where he was a four-year starting point guard, earning All-BIG EAST honors in 1983-84.
He played point guard for the Huskies from 1981-84 and was captain of the team as a senior in 1983-84. He never missed a game in four seasons and started 104 of 113 games. He led the team in assists for four consecutive seasons totaling 534 assists. He currently ranks fifth on the UConn career assists list. He scored 900 points (8.0 ppg) and averaged 30 minutes per game during his college career.
Hobbs, who played with Patrick Ewing and for Mike Jarvis at Cambridge Rindge and Latin High School in the late '70s, helped lead his team to the Massachusetts State High School title. He was named Massachusetts Schoolboy Player of the Year in 1979-80.
Prior to joining Calhoun's staff at UConn, Hobbs served as an assistant coach at Boston University for six years (1988-93). Boston University won the North Atlantic Conference title twice and advanced to the NCAA Tournament first round in two of Hobbs' four seasons in Boston.
Hobbs and his wife, JoAnn, have two daughters: RaShauna and Kaliah.
Karl Hobbs has been named to the position of Director of Men’s Basketball Administration at the University of Connecticut, it was announced today by head coach Jim Calhoun. Hobbs spent the previous ten seasons as the head coach at George Washington University.
“I am very excited to have Karl rejoin our staff here at UConn,” said Calhoun. “Karl is a proven professional and is a Husky. He will be a great fit and I know that the team and staff will benefit from his return.”
“I am blessed with the opportunity to work with such incredible coaches, administrators and student-athletes,” said Hobbs. “I consider everyone at UConn to be family to me and I take great pride in returning under the tutelage of such a phenomenal Hall of Famer and mentor in Coach Calhoun. I credit Coach for so much of the success that I have had in my career and to be back working for him is a thrill. It is an exciting time to be at UConn, under the direction of new President Susan Herbst, and I have such gratitude and respect for Jeff Hathaway and the impact that he has had on my career. I look forward to getting started and jumping in with both feet, getting to know the players and reconnecting with the many people still on the staff from my previous time on campus.”
In his ten seasons at GW, Hobbs led the Colonials to unprecedented heights, capturing a pair of Atlantic 10 Tournament titles, one regular season championship and making five postseason appearances, including three straight NCAA Tournament trips from 2004-06. Hobbs compiled a record of 166-129 in his ten seasons.
Hobbs spent the 1993-94 through 2000-01 seasons as an assistant coach for UConn, helping the Huskies earn five BIG EAST Regular Season titles, three BIG EAST Tournament crowns and the 1999 NCAA National Championship. UConn had a record of 216-56 in his eight seasons on the staff.
A native of Roxbury, MA, Hobbs attended Connecticut where he was a four-year starting point guard, earning All-BIG EAST honors in 1983-84.
He played point guard for the Huskies from 1981-84 and was captain of the team as a senior in 1983-84. He never missed a game in four seasons and started 104 of 113 games. He led the team in assists for four consecutive seasons totaling 534 assists. He currently ranks fifth on the UConn career assists list. He scored 900 points (8.0 ppg) and averaged 30 minutes per game during his college career.
Hobbs, who played with Patrick Ewing and for Mike Jarvis at Cambridge Rindge and Latin High School in the late '70s, helped lead his team to the Massachusetts State High School title. He was named Massachusetts Schoolboy Player of the Year in 1979-80.
Prior to joining Calhoun's staff at UConn, Hobbs served as an assistant coach at Boston University for six years (1988-93). Boston University won the North Atlantic Conference title twice and advanced to the NCAA Tournament first round in two of Hobbs' four seasons in Boston.
Hobbs and his wife, JoAnn, have two daughters: RaShauna and Kaliah.
BleedBlue7
WT Executive Moderator
In the 2011 college football season, head coach Joker Phillips and the Kentucky Wildcats will be utilizing many new faces on the offensive side of the ball. Several key players from one of the SEC's highest scoring offenses from last season are gone.
All-American wide receiver Randall Cobb was drafted in the second round of the 2011 NFL Draft by the Green Bay Packers. Cobb elected to leave Lexington as a junior in the midst of an NFL lockout. Other key losses for the Wildcats include All-SEC running back Derrick Locke, All-SEC quarterback Mike Hartline and the Wildcats' second leading receiver, Chris Matthews.
I would venture to say every Kentucky fan cringes at the last paragraph. But there is certainly a bright future ahead for the Wildcats' depleted offense.
Morgan Newton, now a junior, will be taking over as the signal caller for the Wildcats. Newton started the last half of the season during his freshman year in place of injured Hartline. Newton played very well and showed he is the quarterback of the future for the Wildcats, leading them to a 5-3 record to round out the season. During his sophomore season, he played a backup role to Hartline. On the other hand, he started for the Wildcats in the BBVA Compass Bowl against Pittsburgh, playing extremely well despite a loss to the Panthers.
Newton has the tools to become an elite SEC quarterback. He possess an extremely strong arm, big upper body, great legs and is capable of gaining good yardage on the ground.
The question is: Will he have the support around him?
On the ground, the Wildcats have a plethora of young talent. Sophomore Raymond Sanders will be heading up the depth chart. He showed last season, as a true freshman—as well as in spring practice—that he is more than capable of taking the reins of running the ball.
Also of note, Josh Clemons, an extremely talented and high upside freshman, will also make a push for the starting job. Sophomore Jonathan George, junior CoShik Williams and redshirt freshman Brandon Gainer will also get carries during the season.
As you can see, the Wildcats are not without talent and depth on the ground.
The Wildcats returns one of the top offensive lines in the SEC heading into the season. Seniors Chandler Burden and Billy Joe Murphy will be the left and right tackles, respectively. Senior Stuart Hines and junior Larry Warford will be anchoring the middle at the guard positions. Junior Matt Smith will be snapping the ball to Newton.
The Wildcats return a vast amount of experience and talent in the trenches on the offensive side of the football. This offensive line will be one of the tops in the SEC.
Without question, the most impacted position—as a result of the loss of Randall Cobb and Chris Matthews—is the wide receiving corps. Quarterback Morgan Newton will be throwing passes to some pretty big question marks out wide.
Junior La'Rod King and sophomore Brian Adams will be the two best targets for Newton. Matt Roark, Gene McCaskill and E.J. Fields will also be on the field catching passes. As you can see, there will be quite a bit of inexperience out wide. Also, true freshman Daryl Collins is being labeled by many as "the next Randall Cobb."
The talent is there, but the big question is whether they be consistent in pressure situations like Cobb and Matthews.
At the tight end position, the Wildcats return everyone. This position is wide open with four players vying for the starting nod including Tyler Robinson, Nick Melillo, Anthony Kendrick and Jordan Aumiller. There is quite a bit of talent and depth at the tight end position, but which of these four players will get the starting nod post-summer camp?
The Wildcats lost quite a bit of firepower on the offensive side of the ball. The talent is there, but still questions remain.
All of the questions and position battles will become more clear after summer camp progresses and comes to a close.
But one thing is for sure: The Wildcat offense has a very bright future moving forward.
WT Executive Moderator
In the 2011 college football season, head coach Joker Phillips and the Kentucky Wildcats will be utilizing many new faces on the offensive side of the ball. Several key players from one of the SEC's highest scoring offenses from last season are gone.All-American wide receiver Randall Cobb was drafted in the second round of the 2011 NFL Draft by the Green Bay Packers. Cobb elected to leave Lexington as a junior in the midst of an NFL lockout. Other key losses for the Wildcats include All-SEC running back Derrick Locke, All-SEC quarterback Mike Hartline and the Wildcats' second leading receiver, Chris Matthews.
I would venture to say every Kentucky fan cringes at the last paragraph. But there is certainly a bright future ahead for the Wildcats' depleted offense.
Morgan Newton, now a junior, will be taking over as the signal caller for the Wildcats. Newton started the last half of the season during his freshman year in place of injured Hartline. Newton played very well and showed he is the quarterback of the future for the Wildcats, leading them to a 5-3 record to round out the season. During his sophomore season, he played a backup role to Hartline. On the other hand, he started for the Wildcats in the BBVA Compass Bowl against Pittsburgh, playing extremely well despite a loss to the Panthers.
Newton has the tools to become an elite SEC quarterback. He possess an extremely strong arm, big upper body, great legs and is capable of gaining good yardage on the ground.
The question is: Will he have the support around him?
On the ground, the Wildcats have a plethora of young talent. Sophomore Raymond Sanders will be heading up the depth chart. He showed last season, as a true freshman—as well as in spring practice—that he is more than capable of taking the reins of running the ball.
Also of note, Josh Clemons, an extremely talented and high upside freshman, will also make a push for the starting job. Sophomore Jonathan George, junior CoShik Williams and redshirt freshman Brandon Gainer will also get carries during the season.
As you can see, the Wildcats are not without talent and depth on the ground.
The Wildcats returns one of the top offensive lines in the SEC heading into the season. Seniors Chandler Burden and Billy Joe Murphy will be the left and right tackles, respectively. Senior Stuart Hines and junior Larry Warford will be anchoring the middle at the guard positions. Junior Matt Smith will be snapping the ball to Newton.
The Wildcats return a vast amount of experience and talent in the trenches on the offensive side of the football. This offensive line will be one of the tops in the SEC.
Without question, the most impacted position—as a result of the loss of Randall Cobb and Chris Matthews—is the wide receiving corps. Quarterback Morgan Newton will be throwing passes to some pretty big question marks out wide.
Junior La'Rod King and sophomore Brian Adams will be the two best targets for Newton. Matt Roark, Gene McCaskill and E.J. Fields will also be on the field catching passes. As you can see, there will be quite a bit of inexperience out wide. Also, true freshman Daryl Collins is being labeled by many as "the next Randall Cobb."
The talent is there, but the big question is whether they be consistent in pressure situations like Cobb and Matthews.
At the tight end position, the Wildcats return everyone. This position is wide open with four players vying for the starting nod including Tyler Robinson, Nick Melillo, Anthony Kendrick and Jordan Aumiller. There is quite a bit of talent and depth at the tight end position, but which of these four players will get the starting nod post-summer camp?
The Wildcats lost quite a bit of firepower on the offensive side of the ball. The talent is there, but still questions remain.
All of the questions and position battles will become more clear after summer camp progresses and comes to a close.
But one thing is for sure: The Wildcat offense has a very bright future moving forward.
BleedBlue7
WT Executive Moderator
The Kentucky Wildcats finished 6-7 last season, while making their fifth-straight bowl game.
In 2011, the Wildcats will look to continue to rise up the SEC rankings. With the likes of Randall Cobb being drafted to the Green Bay Packers, and with Derrick Locke and Chris Matthews graduating, the Wildcats look to reload and continue to gain respect in the SEC and also on the national scene.
Football season is fast approaching and, like usual, nobody knows what is in store for the upcoming year of football ahead of us.
So here are five bold predictions for the Kentucky Wildcats in the 2011 season.
UK Will Upset Florida
The Cats vs. Gators football series has been a landslide (and that's an understatement) in favor of the Gators. Florida has beaten Kentucky for the last...well, let's just say two decades.
But the 2011 game will finally be the game the Cats break the curse.
On September 24, 2011, the Gators will roll into Commonwealth Stadium with new coach Will Muschamp, after a rivalry game with Tennessee and right before a tough stretch with a home game against Alabama and then games on the road at LSU and Auburn.
The Gators could very will be overlooking the feisty Wildcats, who could very well be 3-0 coming into the game.
The Gators will be the favorite, but the feisty Cats will have something to say in a trap game for the Gators.
The Losing Streak Against Tennessee Will Be Snapped
Much like Florida, Tennessee has been a thorn in Kentucky's side for the past two decades.
The Cats have had plenty of good chances and close calls against the Volunteers.
The Volunteers will roll into Lexington in late November for the annual border rivalry with Kentucky.
Tennessee has been in a slump for a couple of years and is looking to again rise to back to glory. The Cats and Vols will be matched in a hard-fought, tooth-and-nail game. The Cats, led by Morgan Newton under center, will be fired up, as well as the 70,000 people in Commonwealth Stadium.
Don't be surprised if this one goes into overtime. The Cats will take it.
UK Will Win 8 Regular-Season Games
For the first time in a long while, the Wildcats will win eight regular-season games.
Morgan Newton will have the offense rolling in the air. Raymond Sanders and freshman Josh Clemons will have the offense running over defenses on the ground. Also, Danny Trevathan and Winston Guy will have the new defensive scheme clicking on all cylinders.
I mentioned in my first two slides that UK will beat Florida and Tennessee. Add to that a 4-0 record in the out-of-conference schedule with wins over Louisville, Central Michigan, Western Kentucky and Jacksonville State.
Now add two SEC games against the likes of Vanderbilt, Ole Miss and possibly Mississippi State, and UK will have eight regular-season wins for the first time in recent memory.
Morgan Newton Will Throw for over 3,500 Yards
Morgan Newton is taking over the reins as UK's quarterback after the graduation of Mike Hartline.
A highly touted, 4-star player out of high school in 2009, Morgan Newton is now a junior. His freshman year, he started half of the season and led UK to a 5-2 record in his presence. His sophomore year, he played a backup role.
Now in his junior season, he is finally getting the chance to show his stuff along with former UK and SEC great quarterback, Andre Woodson mentoring him on the coaching staff.
Morgan Newton will emerge with his great arm and his legs out of the pocket as one of the top quarterbacks in the SEC.
Look for him to break some UK season records when his career at UK is over.
Kentucky Will Reach Their 6th-Straight Bowl Game
With my previous four bold predictions, UK will find itself with eight regular-season wins with a top SEC quarterback in Morgan Newton. They will find themselves in their sixth-straight bowl game.
If all goes as planned in these predictions, UK will find itself finishing third in the SEC East and reach a New Year's Day bowl game.
Kentucky will emerge as a respected SEC team and will make noise in the East. This is a new era of Kentucky football and the Cats are out for blood.
I wasn't at the Greater Hartford Pro-Am Sunday night, but apparently Jeremy Lamb threw down a dunk that ranks among the top 3 in the league's history, according to GHPA director Pete Higgins.
Apparently Greg Langston, a freshman at Southern Connecticut State, was guarding Lamb for much of the game and doing a pretty good job (even though Lamb notched a triple-double). But late in the game, Langston clapped his hands inside the lane and challenged Lamb to beat him. No problem.
Looks like this may be the dunk we're hearing about.
Lamb pulled off a crossover for the ages, Langston fell to the floor a la Gary McGhee, and Lamb threw down a jam that they'll be talking about at the GHPA for years to come.
"Everybody just went home after that," said Higgins, only slightly exaggerating.
Seriously, everyone at the pro-am tonight is talking about this dunk in hushed tones.
"It wasn't quite Biblical," said Higgins, "but it was extraterrestrial."
One thing seems sure: Lamb's confidence, and athleticism, are through the roof right now.
Oh, and if you're wondering who has the other two "top 3" dunks in GHPA history, Higgins says it's Waterbury's Kelvin Davis, who threw down on UConn's Curtis Kelly about six years ago, and UNH's Cassius Chaney.
So I’m doing a UConn season preview for Lindy’s, and they ask that we list the team’s key statistics from last year and how they ranked both in conference and nationally.
Come to realize that UConn didn’t shoot the ball well last year (44.4 percent, 11th in Big East, 182nd nationally) and was even worse from beyond the arc (32.9, 12th Big East, 221st nationally).
The Huskies didn’t score particularly well (72.4 ppg, 7th, 74th), weren’t as menacing as they usually are defensively (64.9, 6th, 84th), and didn’t dole out a whole lot of assists (13 per game, 13th, 155th). Even their usual rebounding dominance was a bit down – their rebounding margin of 4.4 per game was fourth in the Big East.
And while the Huskies were second in the Big East and 11th nationally in blocked shots, that’s a far cry from leading the nation in the category, as they had done several times over the prior decade.
So how in the world did UConn win a national championship last season? Oh yeah … Kemba.
To be fair, UConn did lead the Big East and was 11th nationally in free throw percentage at 76.3 percent. And they turned the ball over just 11.4 times per game, second in the conference.
I realize numbers don’t always tell the whole story … which again leads us back to Kemba and the remarkable leadership, clutch play and intangibles he brought to the table. Despite all the talent returning next season, not to mention the two blue-chip recruits UConn is bringing in, the loss of just that one player will be incalculable. Nobody in the history of the program has meant more to a single team than Kemba did last year – and that’s saying a lot, as this program has churned out Ray Allen, Emeka Okafor, Ben Gordon … you know the list.
I think Shabazz Napier and Ryan Boatright are as good a replacement as you could find, but losing Kemba Walker will still be a lot to overcome. Think about how much Jeremy Lamb benefitted from defenses keying on Kemba. Lamb is great, and he can certainly create his own offense, but it will be a different challenge for him next year as “The Man.”
Think about who’ll have the gumption to step up and hit all those clutch shots. Who’ll take the team by the reins like Kemba did last winter, when he steered it away from all the nonsense that was going on within the program (and it goes deeper than you might imagine) and kept the Huskies' eyes focused on the prize?
Questions that need to be answered. The talent is there – even more overall talent than last year’s team – and there’s no doubt the Huskies will be one of the top teams in the country. Just be careful with any Final Four expectations.
Oh, a couple of other numbers for you: I’ve never been big on knowing and remembering uniform numbers, but some people are. With that in mind, we’ll tell you that DeAndre Daniels will be sporting No. 2 for the Huskies this year and Boatright will wear No. 11.
For The First Twenty Minutes of the Mystics' game last night in LA, it looked almost certain that Washington would finish up its five-game road trip without a single victory. During the first two periods, the Mystics played some of the worst basketball we've seen them play this season, allowing the Sparks to build as much as a 24-point lead. By halftime, the Mystics had managed to cut that lead by only two points, and so they entered the locker room at the break with the Sparks firmly ahead, 47-25.
The BCs guess that around that time many folks (oh you of little faith) turned off the game and called it a night. Those of you who did, well, you missed an amazing second half of basketball . . . and, no doubt, woke up to a big surprise this morning!
In the third quarter, the Sparks came out flat, while the Mystics, led by Lang and Matee, suddenly were able to find the net, and outscored LA in that period, 20-12. That closed the gap to 59-45 . . . a good effort by Washington, but still nothing to cause panic on the Sparks' bench. But in the final quarter, the Sparks simply imploded, scoring 18 points while the Mystics virtually scored at will, pouring in 32 points! The Sparks' entire 22-point halftime lead was history, and with the score tied at the end of regulation, 77-77, the teams were headed for overtime. For Maryland fans, the last minute of regulation was particularly sweet, as we saw a shoot out between Lang and Marissa on one end of the court and Kristi on the other, each of the three nailing a big bucket for her team.
With the game now going to "penalty kicks" as the LA announcer put it (perhaps he, like the BCs, had spent hours earlier in the day watching the USA's futile effort against Japan), the Mystics took over completely, outscoring LA 12-8 and ending their long road trip with a much-needed W, 89-85. According to the AP, the win was the largest second-half comeback in WNBA history.
Matee led all scorers with 29 points, while Lang added 24 points plus 14 boards (for another double-double) and 5 assists. (No wonder Lang's back has been hurting . . . she's doing a lot of heavy lifting these days!) Marissa was the only other Mystic in double-figures (10), with all of her scoring coming in the critical fourth quarter and in OT. Except for Jasmine (8 points), the Mystics' bench contributed very little last night. Kristi led the Sparks with 21 points (including 4 of 5 three-pointers) and tallied 7 assists in a losing effort.
The Mystics' win last night broke their five-game losing streak and improved their record (a little), to 3-10, still last in the East. They return home on Wednesday for the annual kiddie day game (aka Screamageddon) at 11:30am. The Mystics will be playing the Atlanta Dream, one of the only three teams they have beaten this season.
If you'll be one of the few grownups attending . . . don't forget your earplugs!
A new ABA team is forming in Connecticut. The Connecticut Topballerz will play their games at Albertus Magnus and will feature lots of former Nutmeg State high school and/or college standouts on its roster. Marcus Cox is said to be interested.
Here's the story from today's Register.
Here's the story from today's Register.
We'll Be Honest . . . with the Mystics' game against the Mercury in Phoenix starting at10PM (ET) last night, at the end of a long work week, the BCs didn't stay up late to watch it all. In fact, we didn't see much more than the first quarter.
But it turned out to be a somewhat interesting first quarter: how often do you see a game begin with a star player (Candice Dupree) grabbing the opening tip and then running the wrong way down the court? (It was a first for the BCs!) Unfortunately for the Mystics, the hot-shooting Dupree (she finished the game leading all scorers with 20 points) passed the ball to a teammate before attempting an "own goal." Darn!
For the Mystics, the interesting (and unusual) aspect of the first quarter was that Lang scored 11 of the team's 12 points in that period (Nicky added a free throw). Yes, Lang was the only player in Mystics red who scored a field goal during the opening ten minutes. It doesn't usually bode well when only one player is carrying her team for an entire period, so it was no surprise that the Mystics trailed at the end of that period, 22-12.
The Mystics went on to lose, 78-64. From the box score, it appears that aside from Lang (8-17) and Jasmine Thomas (5-6), the rest of the Mystics would've had trouble hitting water from a boat last night. As a team, they a shot only 34.8% overall (23% if you exclude Lang and Jasmine's numbers), and a paltry 18.8% from beyond the arc (3 of 16). Ugh-ly.
With a third of the WNBA season now over, the Mystics' record stands at 2-10. And at 0-4, this 5-game road trip is not turning out to be much fun for the Mystics players . . . or their fans.
The final stop on the Mystics' road trip is LA tomorrow (Sunday), where Washington will tip off against the struggling Sparks (no Candace Parker, interim Coach Jellybean) at 8:30PM ET. The game will be broadcast on NBA TV.
But speaking of fun and no-fun, the BCs did catch all of the earlier game last night between the (not-having-any-fun) Tulsa Shock and the LA Sparks via Live Access. Tulsa led by as many as 18 points! Well into the final period, it looked nearly certain that the Sparks would be become the second member of the I-can't-believe-my-team-lost-to-the-Tulsa-Shock Club. Alas, thanks in large part to Kristi Toliver, the Mystics remain the sole member of that ignominious organization. KT scored a game-high 25 points (tying her career high), dished out 6 assists, grabbed 3 rebounds, and had only 1 TO, to lead her team in a ferocious late-game comeback. With 19 seconds left, KT nailed a 22-foot three-pointer to put her team up by 4 . . . a shot the Tulsa play-by-play announcer described as a "dagger" to the heart of the Shock. How many times have Maryland fans seen KT do that before? That was fun to see . . . in a WNBA season that (to date) has mostly been not much fun at all. Thanks, KT! LA won, 79-74.
* * * * * *
This is a big weekend if you're a sports fan. Besides WNBA games, there's the Tour de France, the Women's World Cup, and the British Open. If you are looking for the BCs today or tomorrow, we'll be in front of our TV. Enjoy the weekend!
Thought y'all might like to see this. Just 5-foot-11 (probably closer to 5-9), but the fella can fly.
Ater Majok promises that "one day", he'll shed light on why he left UConn last September under somewhat mysterious circumstances.
Just not today.
Here's a little of what Majok said prior to a Greater Hartford Pro-Am game Friday night:
(on being drafted by the Lakers in the second round)
"It's great, man. I'm a Laker now. It's a whole new beginning for me."
"They've said nothing's been handed to you, we've thrown you a life line and I've got to work for everything. They told me what I need to do to make the team, so I've just got to keep working hard."
"I'm playing in different pro-ams, just trying to get into as many games as possible."
(on UConn)
"Whatever happened, happened. I never wanted to leave UConn. They're good guys, I went back today."
"No, no hard feelings with anybody there. I was there yesterday, I spoke to Coach Calhoun, Coach Blaney. I'm a Husky, and I'll always be a Husky."
(on watching UConn's run to a national title this past spring)
"I'm gonna tell you the truth: it was tough ... I know I was part of that team, but because of things that happened, I wasn't able to. I was really happy for Kemba, he carried that team."
"I was eligible (to play)."
Just not today.
Here's a little of what Majok said prior to a Greater Hartford Pro-Am game Friday night:
(on being drafted by the Lakers in the second round)
"It's great, man. I'm a Laker now. It's a whole new beginning for me."
"They've said nothing's been handed to you, we've thrown you a life line and I've got to work for everything. They told me what I need to do to make the team, so I've just got to keep working hard."
"I'm playing in different pro-ams, just trying to get into as many games as possible."
(on UConn)
"Whatever happened, happened. I never wanted to leave UConn. They're good guys, I went back today."
"No, no hard feelings with anybody there. I was there yesterday, I spoke to Coach Calhoun, Coach Blaney. I'm a Husky, and I'll always be a Husky."
(on watching UConn's run to a national title this past spring)
"I'm gonna tell you the truth: it was tough ... I know I was part of that team, but because of things that happened, I wasn't able to. I was really happy for Kemba, he carried that team."
"I was eligible (to play)."
Emmy Nods Lacking Diversity (Again) | News | BET
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