The Celtics saved their best for last.
Trailing 12-8 at the start of the fourth quarter after going scoreless in the third quarter, the Celtics used a huge 10-2 run to overcome a tough Suns team, 18-14, in YMCA Kindergarten Basketball this morning in Champaign. Before the guys took the floor for the final time this spring, Coach Dan told the team: "This is it, guys! This is the last quarter of our season, and we need you to step up and play your best out there so we can finish strong. Have fun and let's go to work." And that's exactly what happened.
Combining a stifling defense with some opportunistic sharp-shooting, the Celtics made their finest push of the season just when they needed it most. Jack had an unbelievable quarter, hitting two LONG three-pointers from somewhere out near Mahomet, Joe added a couple easy hoops off the glass, and Tobin played perhaps his best game of the season, grabbing more than his share of rebounds for the boys in green. Michael's and Nathan's aggressive defense on the wings created some nice opportunities for the Celtics as well.
Give credit to Thomas too: Thomas kept the Celtics in the game in the first three quarters today, hitting a couple nice jumpers and rebounding like a guy who is paid to rebound basketballs.
The Suns were the aggressors early. They often knifed through a porous Celtics defense for easy hoops or easy rebounds and second-chance baskets. And one Suns player in particular - I'm not sure what his name is - was shooting lights-out, ONE-HANDED from behind the three-point line: I think he came away with at least 6 points on three really tough shots. In the first three quarters, this game was paced by the Suns, with their deliberate approach and aggressive defense.
But good teams find ways to win games, and the Celtics proved today - and all season - that they had what it takes to be successful. Unofficially, the good guys finished the season 7-0. What a great accomplishment for these kids!!!
After the final whistle, the referee assembled both teams - in two lines, facing all the parents in the crowd - at half court for the trophy presentations. He called out the name of each participant and handed each kid a nice commemorative trophy. I loved every moment of this!
Ending an undefeated season like this one is certainly a bittersweet moment for this first-time assistant coach. I absolutely had a blast with these nine tremendous kids, Coach Dan and Coach Mike, and all the parents. We all have a lot to be proud of, and it is my hope that we can get everyone back together again next fall for another success-filled season on the courts at the Champaign County YMCA.
GO CELTICS!!!
Saturday, April 07, 2007
Saturday, March 31, 2007
Champaign County YMCA Youth Basketball: Celtics 26, Lakers 18
The Celtics won another tough contest against another tough opponent this morning, taking a huge 26-18 victory from the Lakers in Champaign County YMCA Kindergarten Hoops.
After Coach Dan and George left the game following the second quarter, Coach Mike and I handled the coaching duties for the remainder of the game. I told the kids after the game: "This was our best game of the season! The competition was the toughest we've seen so far. But you guys all played hard, you had a lot of fun and we did some great things out there. Everyone contributed to make this our best game yet!"
Joe, who returned to the lineup after missing two straight games, led the Celtics with 10 points (unofficially). Joe's offense started with stifling defense: He picked off several passes and was able to capitalize on Laker miscues with a few fast-break baskets.
But Joe had a lot of help from the other Celtics: Jack, Thomas, Michael, Nathan, Tobin, George, Luke and Sam all played solid defense and boxed-out and rebounded extremely well, often giving the Lakers just one shot per possession. My opinion is that the Celtics won this game on the boards, dominating the Lakers only because they seemed to want it more than the Lakers did. The Lakers are a really good team, but the Celtics proved superior on this day and improved to 6-0 in the league.
Michael continued his solid play as he had one basket from just left of the paint (off a rebound) to go along with four rebounds, two steals, and two assists.
Jack had four baskets for eight points and a bunch of rebounds. Thomas had a basket for two points and several boards. And George contributed four points and a couple rebounds. Luke, Nathan and Tobin didn't score today, but they all gathered some nice rebounds and played solid defense for the Celtics.
Kudos to the Lakers' Tanner, who, arguably, is the finest player in the Kindergarten YMCA League. Tanner is probably the one youngster in this league who can put an entire team on his back and carry it to victory: Tanner has the ability to take a game over when he wants to do so. Michael and Joe both share good friendships with Tanner, and Michael hates to play against his best friends.
Next up for the Celtics: the final game of the season against the Suns on Saturday, April 7 at 9 AM at the Champaign County YMCA.
GO CELTICS!!!
After Coach Dan and George left the game following the second quarter, Coach Mike and I handled the coaching duties for the remainder of the game. I told the kids after the game: "This was our best game of the season! The competition was the toughest we've seen so far. But you guys all played hard, you had a lot of fun and we did some great things out there. Everyone contributed to make this our best game yet!"
Joe, who returned to the lineup after missing two straight games, led the Celtics with 10 points (unofficially). Joe's offense started with stifling defense: He picked off several passes and was able to capitalize on Laker miscues with a few fast-break baskets.
But Joe had a lot of help from the other Celtics: Jack, Thomas, Michael, Nathan, Tobin, George, Luke and Sam all played solid defense and boxed-out and rebounded extremely well, often giving the Lakers just one shot per possession. My opinion is that the Celtics won this game on the boards, dominating the Lakers only because they seemed to want it more than the Lakers did. The Lakers are a really good team, but the Celtics proved superior on this day and improved to 6-0 in the league.
Michael continued his solid play as he had one basket from just left of the paint (off a rebound) to go along with four rebounds, two steals, and two assists.
Jack had four baskets for eight points and a bunch of rebounds. Thomas had a basket for two points and several boards. And George contributed four points and a couple rebounds. Luke, Nathan and Tobin didn't score today, but they all gathered some nice rebounds and played solid defense for the Celtics.
Kudos to the Lakers' Tanner, who, arguably, is the finest player in the Kindergarten YMCA League. Tanner is probably the one youngster in this league who can put an entire team on his back and carry it to victory: Tanner has the ability to take a game over when he wants to do so. Michael and Joe both share good friendships with Tanner, and Michael hates to play against his best friends.
Next up for the Celtics: the final game of the season against the Suns on Saturday, April 7 at 9 AM at the Champaign County YMCA.
GO CELTICS!!!
Saturday, March 24, 2007
Champaign County YMCA Youth Basketball: Celtics 14, Spurs 10
It was a mighty defensive struggle, but the shorthanded Celtics escaped with a gutty 14-10 victory from the tough Spurs this morning in Champaign County YMCA Kindergarten hoops.
Jack was easily the most valuable player for the Celtics as he led the team in both points (8) and rebounds (he had so many I lost track of them!). Although Jack needs to share the ball a little bit more, we really needed his offensive production today: The Spurs were scrappy hustlers who matched the Celtics' defensive intensity and easy looks at the basket were few for both teams. Jack had the hot hand just at the right time.
Michael played another solid game this morning. He had another left-baseline jumper - this seems to be his favorite spot on the floor right now - in the first quarter for two points, but he did many other things to contribute to this Celtics victory. He was all over the floor chasing loose balls and he ended up with three steals, three rebounds and an assist. Michael also continues to handle the ball extremely well: He and Joe are arguably the best ball-handlers on the team.
Isaiah joined us for this game and he contributed two big points and a couple rebounds. He is a good player and it was great having him on the team this morning.
George had the other Celtics basket. George continues to play good defense and snag rebounds for the team.
Sam had a good look at the basket after a rebound, but the ball caromed off the rim. Sam is getting more active with each game and he seems to be having fun.
Tobin also took a shot, only to come up a little short. Tobin is hustling as well and we need his low-post presence on defense.
Four of the nine Celtics on the roster - Nathan, Luke, Joe and Thomas - were all on spring break vacations with their families and missed this morning's game. We missed all of them a lot today and we were fortunate to have Isiah on our side as a substitute.
The Celtics remain undefeated in Y-league play with a 5-0 record and just two games remaining on the schedule. Next up: a game with the Lakers (and Michael's and Joe's buddy Tanner!) on March 31 at 9 AM at the Champaign County YMCA. This should be another barn-burner of a game!
GO CELTICS!!!
Jack was easily the most valuable player for the Celtics as he led the team in both points (8) and rebounds (he had so many I lost track of them!). Although Jack needs to share the ball a little bit more, we really needed his offensive production today: The Spurs were scrappy hustlers who matched the Celtics' defensive intensity and easy looks at the basket were few for both teams. Jack had the hot hand just at the right time.
Michael played another solid game this morning. He had another left-baseline jumper - this seems to be his favorite spot on the floor right now - in the first quarter for two points, but he did many other things to contribute to this Celtics victory. He was all over the floor chasing loose balls and he ended up with three steals, three rebounds and an assist. Michael also continues to handle the ball extremely well: He and Joe are arguably the best ball-handlers on the team.
Isaiah joined us for this game and he contributed two big points and a couple rebounds. He is a good player and it was great having him on the team this morning.
George had the other Celtics basket. George continues to play good defense and snag rebounds for the team.
Sam had a good look at the basket after a rebound, but the ball caromed off the rim. Sam is getting more active with each game and he seems to be having fun.
Tobin also took a shot, only to come up a little short. Tobin is hustling as well and we need his low-post presence on defense.
Four of the nine Celtics on the roster - Nathan, Luke, Joe and Thomas - were all on spring break vacations with their families and missed this morning's game. We missed all of them a lot today and we were fortunate to have Isiah on our side as a substitute.
The Celtics remain undefeated in Y-league play with a 5-0 record and just two games remaining on the schedule. Next up: a game with the Lakers (and Michael's and Joe's buddy Tanner!) on March 31 at 9 AM at the Champaign County YMCA. This should be another barn-burner of a game!
GO CELTICS!!!
Saturday, March 17, 2007
Champaign County YMCA Youth Basketball: Celtics 24, Heat 6
The Celtics improved to 4-0 in the Kindergarten YMCA Youth Basketball League this morning with an easy win from the Heat, 24-6.
This game was over early, as the Celtics built a 12-0 lead while holding the Heat scoreless until the middle of the second quarter.
Everyone played great and everyone scored at least one basket for the Celtics. This team is really getting after it defensively and the rebounding (including boxing-out) is improving every week.
Here are a few individual highlights from this morning's game:
These kids are really playing well together and they are improving each week.
Next up: a game against the Spurs on March 24 at 9 AM at the Champaign County YMCA. This game should be a good test for the Celtics.
GO CELTICS!
This game was over early, as the Celtics built a 12-0 lead while holding the Heat scoreless until the middle of the second quarter.
Everyone played great and everyone scored at least one basket for the Celtics. This team is really getting after it defensively and the rebounding (including boxing-out) is improving every week.
Here are a few individual highlights from this morning's game:
- Michael had two left-baseline jumpers for 4 points and he collected a couple of rebounds and two steals. He played very aggressively and hustled nicely in his final three quarters of the game. This was, by far, his best YMCA game yet.
- Nathan was a "pit bull" on defense: Coach Dan used Nathan's defense as an example for the other kids to follow. Nathan also had a steal and a breakaway for two points and a couple rebounds.
- George had a strong game, adding at least 4 points and several rebounds.
- Jack hit for at least 6 points, including a long jumper that would have normally counted for three points. Jack also had a couple rebounds.
- Luke also had 4 points for the Celtics, both baskets coming from the right baseline. He collected a couple of rebounds as well. Luke is also playing awesome defense.
- Tobin had a nice layup and at least two rebounds.
These kids are really playing well together and they are improving each week.
Next up: a game against the Spurs on March 24 at 9 AM at the Champaign County YMCA. This game should be a good test for the Celtics.
GO CELTICS!
Saturday, March 10, 2007
Champaign County YMCA Youth Basketball: Celtics 20, Bulls 14
The Celtics continued a recent trend of starting games fast and building early leads: They jumped out to a quick 8-2 lead and held off the Bulls this morning in Kindergarten Basketball at the Champaign County YMCA, 20-14.
This game wasn't competitive until the Bulls brought in two impressive substitutes in the third quarter. Michael (from the Bulls) was taken to the locker room with a bloody nose during the quarter, thus prompting their coach to "recruit" two other young men from the crowd to assist his team. Needless to say, it was a different game after that, but the Celtics did just enough in the final stanza to hold off a nice Bulls rally.
This was a very interesting game to watch: Joe hit a desperation shot for the Celtics from just short of half court just as the third quarter ended, bringing at least half of all the spectators in the YMCA gym to their feet in amazement. Honestly, that shot deserved a spot on ESPN Sportscenter - it was that good! And George converted an astounding rebound basket with his back on the floor in the fourth period. WOW!
Props go out to Nathan, who continued to hustle, rebound and play solid defense in his 12 minutes on the floor. Joe probably played one of his best games this morning: He led the team in scoring with about 8 or 10 points (including his remarkable half-court shot). Jack had several rebounds and a couple nice jumpers. In addition to his unlikely shot from his back on the floor, George knocked down a few shots too. Michael played the second and third quarters today, and he continues to play hard, especially on defense. He picked up one assist, and again, he had a pick-pocket steal on defense (which was turned back over to the Bulls by the referee as before). He also got down on the floor after some loose balls.
The Celtics improve (unofficially, of course) to 3-0 on the season and everyone is having a lot of fun! The coaches are enjoying this team a lot! And it looks like the parents are enjoying the games as well.
Next up: an 8:30 AM game with the Heat on March 17 at the Champaign County YMCA. With the upcoming spring break, the Celtics will be short two teammates: Both Joe (along with his father and assistant coach Mike) and Sam will be on vacations with their families and will miss the game. Michael will finally get a chance to play three quarters in this one, so we're hoping that he can get back in the score book again. We'll likely need some offensive production from him in Joe's absence.
GO CELTICS!
This game wasn't competitive until the Bulls brought in two impressive substitutes in the third quarter. Michael (from the Bulls) was taken to the locker room with a bloody nose during the quarter, thus prompting their coach to "recruit" two other young men from the crowd to assist his team. Needless to say, it was a different game after that, but the Celtics did just enough in the final stanza to hold off a nice Bulls rally.
This was a very interesting game to watch: Joe hit a desperation shot for the Celtics from just short of half court just as the third quarter ended, bringing at least half of all the spectators in the YMCA gym to their feet in amazement. Honestly, that shot deserved a spot on ESPN Sportscenter - it was that good! And George converted an astounding rebound basket with his back on the floor in the fourth period. WOW!
Props go out to Nathan, who continued to hustle, rebound and play solid defense in his 12 minutes on the floor. Joe probably played one of his best games this morning: He led the team in scoring with about 8 or 10 points (including his remarkable half-court shot). Jack had several rebounds and a couple nice jumpers. In addition to his unlikely shot from his back on the floor, George knocked down a few shots too. Michael played the second and third quarters today, and he continues to play hard, especially on defense. He picked up one assist, and again, he had a pick-pocket steal on defense (which was turned back over to the Bulls by the referee as before). He also got down on the floor after some loose balls.
The Celtics improve (unofficially, of course) to 3-0 on the season and everyone is having a lot of fun! The coaches are enjoying this team a lot! And it looks like the parents are enjoying the games as well.
Next up: an 8:30 AM game with the Heat on March 17 at the Champaign County YMCA. With the upcoming spring break, the Celtics will be short two teammates: Both Joe (along with his father and assistant coach Mike) and Sam will be on vacations with their families and will miss the game. Michael will finally get a chance to play three quarters in this one, so we're hoping that he can get back in the score book again. We'll likely need some offensive production from him in Joe's absence.
GO CELTICS!
Big Ten Tournament Quarterfinal: Illinois 58, Indiana 54 (OT)
The Illini definitely did not hurt their position for an at-large NCAA Tournament berth tonight as they beat Indiana 58-54 in overtime in a Big Ten Tournament quarterfinal game at the United Center in Chicago.
The Illini extended their winning streak to 18 straight games over six years at the United Center: Illinois is now 31-6 all-time at the United Center. The Illini's last loss at the United Center was March 10, 2001, in the semifinals of the Big Ten tournament - the opponent was Indiana.
Warren Carter paced the victors with 17 points while Shaun Pruitt had 16 to go along with 12 rebounds. Carter also had 7 rebounds and Chet Frazier and Brian Randle both hauled in 6 for the Illini.
Armon Bassett led Indiana (20-10) with 18 points and D.J. White added 14 points and 13 rebounds.
The sixth-seeded Illini (23-10) move on to the semifinals tomorrow afternoon against #2 seed Wisconsin (28-4).
Illinois 58, Indiana 54 (OT)
The Illini extended their winning streak to 18 straight games over six years at the United Center: Illinois is now 31-6 all-time at the United Center. The Illini's last loss at the United Center was March 10, 2001, in the semifinals of the Big Ten tournament - the opponent was Indiana.
Warren Carter paced the victors with 17 points while Shaun Pruitt had 16 to go along with 12 rebounds. Carter also had 7 rebounds and Chet Frazier and Brian Randle both hauled in 6 for the Illini.
Armon Bassett led Indiana (20-10) with 18 points and D.J. White added 14 points and 13 rebounds.
The sixth-seeded Illini (23-10) move on to the semifinals tomorrow afternoon against #2 seed Wisconsin (28-4).
Illinois 58, Indiana 54 (OT)
Friday, March 09, 2007
Round 1 - Big Ten Tournament: Illinois 66, Penn State 60
The Illini built a nice 16-point advantage in this must-win game, only to see Penn State's Mike Walker shoot the Nittany Lions back into it in the second half.
Chet Frazier had a career-high 21 points as the Illini held on for dear (NCAA Tournament) life. Illinois (23-10) now is 30-6 all-time at the United Center, where it has won 17 straight dating back to 2001.
Walker also had a career-high game with his 22 points for Penn State (11-19). He almost single-handedly brought the Lions back from a 16-point second half deficit. Walker's seven 3-pointers are a new Big Ten Tournament record.
Penn State finished 10-for-23 on 3-pointers and Illinois 10-for-28, including a 5-for-9 effort by point guard Frazier.
Illinois 66, Penn State 60
Chet Frazier had a career-high 21 points as the Illini held on for dear (NCAA Tournament) life. Illinois (23-10) now is 30-6 all-time at the United Center, where it has won 17 straight dating back to 2001.
Walker also had a career-high game with his 22 points for Penn State (11-19). He almost single-handedly brought the Lions back from a 16-point second half deficit. Walker's seven 3-pointers are a new Big Ten Tournament record.
Penn State finished 10-for-23 on 3-pointers and Illinois 10-for-28, including a 5-for-9 effort by point guard Frazier.
Illinois 66, Penn State 60
Saturday, March 03, 2007
Champaign County YMCA Youth Basketball: Celtics 20, Mavericks 12
The Celtics jumped out to an early 8-0 lead and never trailed in defeating the Mavericks 20-12 in a Y-Youth Basketball game this morning at the Champaign Family Fitness Center YMCA.
Once again, Michael came out aggressively in the second quarter: He had a nice drive to the hoop and a bucket from the baseline for two points. He also had a clean steal but the YMCA referee awarded the ball back to the Mavericks.
Joe, Nathan, George and Jack all had strong games for the Celtics, who improve to 2-0 in the league. Next up: a game with the Bulls at 9:30 AM on March 10 at the Champaign County Y.
GO CELTICS!!!
Once again, Michael came out aggressively in the second quarter: He had a nice drive to the hoop and a bucket from the baseline for two points. He also had a clean steal but the YMCA referee awarded the ball back to the Mavericks.
Joe, Nathan, George and Jack all had strong games for the Celtics, who improve to 2-0 in the league. Next up: a game with the Bulls at 9:30 AM on March 10 at the Champaign County Y.
GO CELTICS!!!
Saturday, February 24, 2007
Illinois 68, Penn State 50
Shaun Pruitt scored 20 points and Warren Carter added 17 as the Illini frontline dominated the paint and cruised to an important 68-50 win from Penn State in State College, Pennsylvania on Saturday afternoon.
Brian Randle contributed 10 points for Illinois as the Illini bigs combined for 47 points on 20-of-29 shooting. The Illini shot 56% from the field against the worst defense in the Big Ten this season and they controlled the boards, 33-22.
Mike Walker led the Lions with 14 points, 12 of which came from four long second-half 3-pointers, and Geary Claxton added 12 for Penn State, which lost its 13th straight game.
Most people who follow the Illini agreed that this game was absolutely a must-win game for Illinois, although winning the game likely won't help the Illini's argument for an at-large berth in the NCAA Tournament as much as losing it would have hurt Illinois' chances for an invitation to the tourney. The important thing is that the Illini (21-9 overall, 9-6 in the Big Ten) took care of business against Penn State (10-17 overall, 1-13 in the Big Ten) early and often, leading from start to finish with a comfortable margin.
Illinois' win from Penn State, coupled with Michigan State's victory from visiting Indiana, vaulted the Illini into sole possession of third place in the Big Ten. Michigan State, Indiana and Iowa are all 1/2 game behind the Illini with 8-6 Big Ten records. The Illini conclude their regular season schedule next Saturday in Iowa City, Iowa against the Hawkeyes.
A bright orange block of between 50 and 100 Orange Krush members made the bus trip to Happy Valley to root on the Illini. It should be a fun return trip home for these road warriors.
Illinois 68, Penn State 50
Brian Randle contributed 10 points for Illinois as the Illini bigs combined for 47 points on 20-of-29 shooting. The Illini shot 56% from the field against the worst defense in the Big Ten this season and they controlled the boards, 33-22.
Mike Walker led the Lions with 14 points, 12 of which came from four long second-half 3-pointers, and Geary Claxton added 12 for Penn State, which lost its 13th straight game.
Most people who follow the Illini agreed that this game was absolutely a must-win game for Illinois, although winning the game likely won't help the Illini's argument for an at-large berth in the NCAA Tournament as much as losing it would have hurt Illinois' chances for an invitation to the tourney. The important thing is that the Illini (21-9 overall, 9-6 in the Big Ten) took care of business against Penn State (10-17 overall, 1-13 in the Big Ten) early and often, leading from start to finish with a comfortable margin.
Illinois' win from Penn State, coupled with Michigan State's victory from visiting Indiana, vaulted the Illini into sole possession of third place in the Big Ten. Michigan State, Indiana and Iowa are all 1/2 game behind the Illini with 8-6 Big Ten records. The Illini conclude their regular season schedule next Saturday in Iowa City, Iowa against the Hawkeyes.
A bright orange block of between 50 and 100 Orange Krush members made the bus trip to Happy Valley to root on the Illini. It should be a fun return trip home for these road warriors.
Illinois 68, Penn State 50
Champaign County YMCA Youth Basketball: Celtics 18, Raptors 16
It was an exciting start to the Winter 2007 edition of Champaign County YMCA Youth Basketball. And our Celtics came out on the winning side of an 18-16 game this morning at the Champaign County Y.
Both teams looked a little rusty early on after a two-month layoff from competitive hoops, but both teams got more comfortable as the game progressed. I thought both teams had plenty of open looks at the basket but neither of us really capitalized on all those open looks. We rebounded very well today and I thought we hustled and played hard. It looked like our guys were having fun out there too! It was a very good, very competitive game and it was close throughout. And I thought the Raptors, who didn't have an official coach assigned to them, played very tough, especially having just five players suit up.
Michael had a career-high 4 points, at least 2 rebounds, and a steal as he played the best game of his young hoops career. He was very aggressive in the two quarters (14 minutes) he played and he showed an ability to drive to the basket and create shots. I was very proud of him and all of the Celtics in this first game of the Winter Y-league.
And so the Celtics move on with a 1-0 record in the league. Next up: a game with the Mavericks at 9:30 AM on March 3 at the Champaign County Y.
GO CELTICS!!!
Both teams looked a little rusty early on after a two-month layoff from competitive hoops, but both teams got more comfortable as the game progressed. I thought both teams had plenty of open looks at the basket but neither of us really capitalized on all those open looks. We rebounded very well today and I thought we hustled and played hard. It looked like our guys were having fun out there too! It was a very good, very competitive game and it was close throughout. And I thought the Raptors, who didn't have an official coach assigned to them, played very tough, especially having just five players suit up.
Michael had a career-high 4 points, at least 2 rebounds, and a steal as he played the best game of his young hoops career. He was very aggressive in the two quarters (14 minutes) he played and he showed an ability to drive to the basket and create shots. I was very proud of him and all of the Celtics in this first game of the Winter Y-league.
And so the Celtics move on with a 1-0 record in the league. Next up: a game with the Mavericks at 9:30 AM on March 3 at the Champaign County Y.
GO CELTICS!!!
Thursday, February 22, 2007
Illinois 54, Michigan 42
Warren Carter, playing his last game at Assembly Hall and his first collegiate game with his mother in attendance, went out in style and led the Fighting Illini to a crucial 54-42 victory from Michigan Wednesday night.
Senior night... Big game with NCAA Tourney implications for both teams... Last dance for Chief Illiniwek at halftime... Details of last week's Jamar Smith/Brian Carlwell accident splashed all over the news media... The stage was set for a very emotional night for Illini players and fans.
And Carter delivered with a game-high 18 points and 9 rebounds. The two other Illini seniors, Rich McBride and Marcus Arnold, also came through with solid contributions in this important Illini victory: McBride totaled 11 points, including two big second-half threes that helped push the Illini out to a comfortable lead, while Arnold came in off the bench and added 4 points, 2 rebounds and a blocked shot in 16 quality minutes of action.
The Illini defense - which has been strong in the last half of the Big Ten schedule this season - again won this game. Michigan shot just 37% and at times looked lost on offense: No Wolverines scored in double figures as sophomore guard Jerret Smith led UM with 9 points.
Illinois 54, Michigan 42
Senior night... Big game with NCAA Tourney implications for both teams... Last dance for Chief Illiniwek at halftime... Details of last week's Jamar Smith/Brian Carlwell accident splashed all over the news media... The stage was set for a very emotional night for Illini players and fans.
And Carter delivered with a game-high 18 points and 9 rebounds. The two other Illini seniors, Rich McBride and Marcus Arnold, also came through with solid contributions in this important Illini victory: McBride totaled 11 points, including two big second-half threes that helped push the Illini out to a comfortable lead, while Arnold came in off the bench and added 4 points, 2 rebounds and a blocked shot in 16 quality minutes of action.
The Illini defense - which has been strong in the last half of the Big Ten schedule this season - again won this game. Michigan shot just 37% and at times looked lost on offense: No Wolverines scored in double figures as sophomore guard Jerret Smith led UM with 9 points.
Illinois 54, Michigan 42
Illinois' Chief Illiniwek performs last dance
Illinois' Chief Illiniwek performs last dance
And so the vocal, politically correct minority wins again... Not that anyone in this small faction cares about Fighting Illini - yes, Fighting Illini - sports...
And so the vocal, politically correct minority wins again... Not that anyone in this small faction cares about Fighting Illini - yes, Fighting Illini - sports...
Thursday, December 21, 2006
Illinois 71, Idaho State 60
Idaho State brought their A-game tonight; the Illini, on the other hand, were either hung-over from their huge Braggin' Rights Game victory on Tuesday night or thinking about getting back home for Christmas. Whatever the reasons were, Idaho State gave the Illini all they wanted and more, only to come up short in their upset bid in Champaign. Trailing 46-40 with 11:57 left in the game, Illinois produced a game-saving 24-7 run to salvage a 71-60 victory from the Bengals of Pocatello, Idaho.
Make no mistake about it: Idaho State (5-7 overall) has a good basketball team and these guys will make a run at the Big Sky Conference championship. The Sagarin Ratings currently have them ranked #126 in the country. Point guard Akbar Abdul-Ahad was outstanding tonight, exploding for 24 points on 9-for-16 shooting. One of the other ISU guards, David Schroeder, also had a nice game with 16 points.
Warren Carter, who is sidelined with a hip flexor injury, did not play for the Illini: Turns out, he was sorely missed tonight. Jamar Smith came to the rescue for the Illini, hitting 5 of 12 treys for 21 points. Chet Frazier added 13 points, three of which came on an absolute rainmaker of a shot that had the highest arc I've ever seen in hundreds of games at Assembly Hall. Brian Randle added 11 points, Rich McBride hit a couple of threes for 10, and Calvin Brock had 7 points.
Illinois improves to 12-2 overall, 0-0 in the Big Ten Conference. Up next: versus Xavier (Ohio) at Cincinnati, Ohio on Friday, December 29 at 8 PM CT. Hopefully, Warren Carter will be ready to go in this one.
On another note, it was great hearing Coach Lou Henson provide color commentary during the Illini Sports Network's broadcast of this game. He looks great too - it's wonderful to see him doing so well again.
Illinois 71, Idaho State 60
Make no mistake about it: Idaho State (5-7 overall) has a good basketball team and these guys will make a run at the Big Sky Conference championship. The Sagarin Ratings currently have them ranked #126 in the country. Point guard Akbar Abdul-Ahad was outstanding tonight, exploding for 24 points on 9-for-16 shooting. One of the other ISU guards, David Schroeder, also had a nice game with 16 points.
Warren Carter, who is sidelined with a hip flexor injury, did not play for the Illini: Turns out, he was sorely missed tonight. Jamar Smith came to the rescue for the Illini, hitting 5 of 12 treys for 21 points. Chet Frazier added 13 points, three of which came on an absolute rainmaker of a shot that had the highest arc I've ever seen in hundreds of games at Assembly Hall. Brian Randle added 11 points, Rich McBride hit a couple of threes for 10, and Calvin Brock had 7 points.
Illinois improves to 12-2 overall, 0-0 in the Big Ten Conference. Up next: versus Xavier (Ohio) at Cincinnati, Ohio on Friday, December 29 at 8 PM CT. Hopefully, Warren Carter will be ready to go in this one.
On another note, it was great hearing Coach Lou Henson provide color commentary during the Illini Sports Network's broadcast of this game. He looks great too - it's wonderful to see him doing so well again.
Illinois 71, Idaho State 60
Simeon's Wilson chooses Illini
It's official! Martez Wilson - the highest rated player in the state of Illinois - says 'yes' to Coach Ron Zook and the Illini!
What a recruiting class the Illini are assembling!!! WOW!!!
Simeon's Wilson chooses Illini
What a recruiting class the Illini are assembling!!! WOW!!!
Simeon's Wilson chooses Illini
Catching up with Illini football recuiting: Lots of GOOD NEWS!!!
Coach Ron Zook and his hard-working staff have been running all over the country since the Illini football season ended. And all that hard work is starting to pay off: To steal a clever marketing phrase from the marketing folks at Lexus, it's been a "December to Remember" for the Illini football family.
After Thornton Township's stud wide receiver Anthony Morris and Washington, DC superstar Arrelious Benn verballed to Coach Zook and the Illini back on November 9, several other highly-ranked athletes have jumped on the Illini football bandwagon. Here's a list of the newest UI verbal commitments:
S #39 *** Brian Gamble
(Washington HS)
Massillon, OH
6-0/190
Verballed: 12/05/2006
RB NR * Troy Pollard
(Andrew Jackson HS)
Jacksonville, FL
5-8/175/4.50
Verballed: 12/05/2006
C #11 *** Mark Jackson
(Harmony Community School Midd)
Cincinnati, OH
6-5/290/5.20
Verballed: 12/11/2006
WLB NR ** Erique Robertson
(Maple Heights Senior HS)
Maple Heights, OH
5-11/210
Verballed: 12/11/2006
S NR ** Darius Purcell
(Hubbard HS)
Chicago, IL
5-11/215/4.60
Verballed: 12/11/2006
RB JC * Daniel Dufrene
(College of the Sequoias)
Visalia, CA
5-11/205/4.45
Verballed: 12/12/2006
DT #3 ***** D'Angelo McCray
(Andrew Jackson HS)
Jacksonville, FL
6-4/290/4.85
Verballed: 12/14/2006
OT #26 **** Jack Cornell
(Quincy Notre Dame HS)
Quincy, IL
6-7/305/4.90
Verballed: 12/19/2006
For more on these student-athletes, check out Scout.com.
Welcome, one and all, to Fighting Illini football and congratulations on your decisions! We're very excited to have you all with us!!!
NOTE: Simeon's outstanding DE Martez Wilson is to announce his school of choice this evening in a press conference in Chicago. The buzz on the street is that 'Tez is also coming to UI - keep your fingers crossed, Illini fans...
After Thornton Township's stud wide receiver Anthony Morris and Washington, DC superstar Arrelious Benn verballed to Coach Zook and the Illini back on November 9, several other highly-ranked athletes have jumped on the Illini football bandwagon. Here's a list of the newest UI verbal commitments:
(Washington HS)
Massillon, OH
6-0/190
Verballed: 12/05/2006
(Andrew Jackson HS)
Jacksonville, FL
5-8/175/4.50
Verballed: 12/05/2006
(Harmony Community School Midd)
Cincinnati, OH
6-5/290/5.20
Verballed: 12/11/2006
(Maple Heights Senior HS)
Maple Heights, OH
5-11/210
Verballed: 12/11/2006
(Hubbard HS)
Chicago, IL
5-11/215/4.60
Verballed: 12/11/2006
(College of the Sequoias)
Visalia, CA
5-11/205/4.45
Verballed: 12/12/2006
(Andrew Jackson HS)
Jacksonville, FL
6-4/290/4.85
Verballed: 12/14/2006
(Quincy Notre Dame HS)
Quincy, IL
6-7/305/4.90
Verballed: 12/19/2006
For more on these student-athletes, check out Scout.com.
Welcome, one and all, to Fighting Illini football and congratulations on your decisions! We're very excited to have you all with us!!!
NOTE: Simeon's outstanding DE Martez Wilson is to announce his school of choice this evening in a press conference in Chicago. The buzz on the street is that 'Tez is also coming to UI - keep your fingers crossed, Illini fans...
Wednesday, December 20, 2006
Illinois 73, Missouri 70
Seven straight! Seven straight Braggin' Rights victories over Missouri! Another joyous Christmas in Champaign-Urbana!
But, unlike last year's 82-50 woodshed beating by the Illini, this game was close and it came down to the last play and the last few seconds. In fact, neither team led by more than six points in the game. One thing is certain: First-year Missouri coach Mike Anderson has done a nice job installing his version of Nolan Richardson's chaotic "40 Minutes of Hell" system and this Mizzou team has come a long way since last year.
When the final buzzer sounded, Trent Meacham had stolen the ball from Mizzou point guard Stefhon Hannah and the Illini had a hard-fought 73-70 victory and a seventh straight Busch Braggin' Rights trophy. And Illini coach Bruce Weber had his 100th victory (against just 18 defeats) with the Illini. All is well with the world!
But give Missouri (9-2, 0-0 in the Big XII) credit: They fought the Illini harder then they've fought in a long time and their pressure defense was very good all night long. Fortunately, Chester Frazier, Rich McBride, Jamar Smith and Meacham were up to the task as the Illini only committed 14 turnovers - one fewer than their season average of 15.
My game balls go to two Illini: Frazier and Shaun Pruitt. Frazier played a few seconds short of all 40 minutes - even with a painful turf toe injury - and he was solid at the point in the face of all the full-court pressure and wing traps. He totaled 8 points, 6 assists and 3 steals. And Pruitt was just as solid in the paint with a team-high 19 points and 9 rebounds (5 were offensive rebounds). I'm not sure any of the Tigers can stop Shaun when he plays like he did Tuesday night.
The Illini shot just 42% from the field, but outrebounded the fiesty Tigers 39-31. The Illini also out-pilfered the Tigers 12-6 and didn't give the Tigers any easy points in transition - two more surprising statistics. Arguably, the Illini took care of business and forced their slower tempo as much as possible in order to get this important win.
Perhaps the only disappointment in this game was the Illini defense: Missouri used dribble penetration effectively and had a lot of good looks at the basket. The Tigers connected on 51% of their shots.
Mizzou's Hannah led all scorers with a career-high 21 points. No other Tiger player scored more than 9 points.
So the Illini head back to Champaign with another year to brag and an 11-2 record (0-0 in the Big Ten). Up next: versus Idaho State at the Assembly Hall in Champaign on Thursday, December 21 at 7 PM.
Illinois 73, Missouri 70
But, unlike last year's 82-50 woodshed beating by the Illini, this game was close and it came down to the last play and the last few seconds. In fact, neither team led by more than six points in the game. One thing is certain: First-year Missouri coach Mike Anderson has done a nice job installing his version of Nolan Richardson's chaotic "40 Minutes of Hell" system and this Mizzou team has come a long way since last year.
When the final buzzer sounded, Trent Meacham had stolen the ball from Mizzou point guard Stefhon Hannah and the Illini had a hard-fought 73-70 victory and a seventh straight Busch Braggin' Rights trophy. And Illini coach Bruce Weber had his 100th victory (against just 18 defeats) with the Illini. All is well with the world!
But give Missouri (9-2, 0-0 in the Big XII) credit: They fought the Illini harder then they've fought in a long time and their pressure defense was very good all night long. Fortunately, Chester Frazier, Rich McBride, Jamar Smith and Meacham were up to the task as the Illini only committed 14 turnovers - one fewer than their season average of 15.
My game balls go to two Illini: Frazier and Shaun Pruitt. Frazier played a few seconds short of all 40 minutes - even with a painful turf toe injury - and he was solid at the point in the face of all the full-court pressure and wing traps. He totaled 8 points, 6 assists and 3 steals. And Pruitt was just as solid in the paint with a team-high 19 points and 9 rebounds (5 were offensive rebounds). I'm not sure any of the Tigers can stop Shaun when he plays like he did Tuesday night.
The Illini shot just 42% from the field, but outrebounded the fiesty Tigers 39-31. The Illini also out-pilfered the Tigers 12-6 and didn't give the Tigers any easy points in transition - two more surprising statistics. Arguably, the Illini took care of business and forced their slower tempo as much as possible in order to get this important win.
Perhaps the only disappointment in this game was the Illini defense: Missouri used dribble penetration effectively and had a lot of good looks at the basket. The Tigers connected on 51% of their shots.
Mizzou's Hannah led all scorers with a career-high 21 points. No other Tiger player scored more than 9 points.
So the Illini head back to Champaign with another year to brag and an 11-2 record (0-0 in the Big Ten). Up next: versus Idaho State at the Assembly Hall in Champaign on Thursday, December 21 at 7 PM.
Illinois 73, Missouri 70
Illinois 77, Belmont 51
After a close first half, the Illini used a 13-4 run early in the second half to pull away from a stubborn and talented Belmont team on Sunday at Assembly Hall in Champaign. When it was all done, the Illini had a 77-51 victory going away. Both coaches credited tough Illini defense in the second half as the difference in this one.
Warren Carter had another strong game with 21 points and 5 rebounds. Chester Frazier contributed eleven - yes, eleven! - rebounds to lead the Illini (10-2 overall, 0-0 in the Big Ten). Shaun Pruitt added 13 points and 4 boards and Brian Randle totaled 10 and 4, respectively.
The one sore spot for the Illini in this game: turnovers. Belmont, somehow, forced a season-high 22 Illini turnovers. This statistic doesn't bode well for Tuesday's Braggin' Rights Game in Saint Louis against Missouri's chaotic "40 Minutes of Hell": The Illini must take care of the basketball against the much-improved Tigers or they will suffer a defeat.
Shane Dansby came off the bench to lead Belmont (7-3, 2-0 Atlantic Sun Conference) with 13 points, while center Boomer Herndon added a team-high six rebounds for the Bruins.
My personal opinion: This Belmont team will be in the 2007 NCAA Tournament. They were in it last year. They're very disciplined and they've got a lineup full of shooters.
Up next: versus Missouri in the annual Busch Braggin' Rights Game at the Scottrade Center in Saint Louis, MO on Tuesday, December 19 at 8 PM. It should be another wild affair under the Gateway Arch.
Illinois 77, Belmont 51
Warren Carter had another strong game with 21 points and 5 rebounds. Chester Frazier contributed eleven - yes, eleven! - rebounds to lead the Illini (10-2 overall, 0-0 in the Big Ten). Shaun Pruitt added 13 points and 4 boards and Brian Randle totaled 10 and 4, respectively.
The one sore spot for the Illini in this game: turnovers. Belmont, somehow, forced a season-high 22 Illini turnovers. This statistic doesn't bode well for Tuesday's Braggin' Rights Game in Saint Louis against Missouri's chaotic "40 Minutes of Hell": The Illini must take care of the basketball against the much-improved Tigers or they will suffer a defeat.
Shane Dansby came off the bench to lead Belmont (7-3, 2-0 Atlantic Sun Conference) with 13 points, while center Boomer Herndon added a team-high six rebounds for the Bruins.
My personal opinion: This Belmont team will be in the 2007 NCAA Tournament. They were in it last year. They're very disciplined and they've got a lineup full of shooters.
Up next: versus Missouri in the annual Busch Braggin' Rights Game at the Scottrade Center in Saint Louis, MO on Tuesday, December 19 at 8 PM. It should be another wild affair under the Gateway Arch.
Illinois 77, Belmont 51
Wednesday, December 13, 2006
Illinois 71, UIC 66
Ugh! I think I hated watching this Lexus "December to Remember" game as much as Coach Bruce Weber says he did.
After an average first half that led to a comfortable 37-22 halftime lead, the Illini seemed to go into "play not to lose" mode. The Flames cut that 37-22 lead down to just 37-33 in the opening minutes of the second half to get back in the game. UIC shot just 27 percent in the first half and improved to 50 percent shooting in the second 20 minutes (where was the Illini defense in the second half???).
Rich McBride led the Illini with 13 points. Chester Frazier chipped in with 10 points for the Illini and Brian Randle - who had missed the previous nine games following groin surgery - had nine points and nine rebounds.
Othyus Jeffers, who led UIC's comeback, scored 13 of his 16 in the second half. Josh Mayo added 13 for the Flames (5-5).
About the only good news from this game: The Illini (9-2 overall, 0-0 in the Big Ten) are now 29-6 all-time at the United Center and 12-1 against UIC.
Next up: versus Belmont on Sunday, December 17 at the Assembly Hall in Champaign.
Illinois 71, UIC 66
After an average first half that led to a comfortable 37-22 halftime lead, the Illini seemed to go into "play not to lose" mode. The Flames cut that 37-22 lead down to just 37-33 in the opening minutes of the second half to get back in the game. UIC shot just 27 percent in the first half and improved to 50 percent shooting in the second 20 minutes (where was the Illini defense in the second half???).
Rich McBride led the Illini with 13 points. Chester Frazier chipped in with 10 points for the Illini and Brian Randle - who had missed the previous nine games following groin surgery - had nine points and nine rebounds.
Othyus Jeffers, who led UIC's comeback, scored 13 of his 16 in the second half. Josh Mayo added 13 for the Flames (5-5).
About the only good news from this game: The Illini (9-2 overall, 0-0 in the Big Ten) are now 29-6 all-time at the United Center and 12-1 against UIC.
Next up: versus Belmont on Sunday, December 17 at the Assembly Hall in Champaign.
Illinois 71, UIC 66
Thursday, December 07, 2006
Illinois 87, IUPUI 59
One stat says it all about this mismatch: The Illini had 26 assists on 32 made baskets. The Illini offense was extremely efficient in an easy victory from IUPUI.
55% field goal shooting and 59% accuracy from behind the arc didn't hurt either. Warren Carter continued his solid play with a game-leading 21 points and he added 8 rebounds for the Illini. Rich McBride converted 6 of 9 treys for 18 points and Jamar Smith came in off the bench for 15 points on 5-of-6 shooting. Chester Frazier did a solid job at the point, handing out 11 assists with only 3 turnovers.
Two senior guards led the way for IUPUI (3-5 overall): David Barlow had 19 points and 5 rebounds while Matt Burks added 17 and 4, respectively.
One interesting side note: IUPUI Guard/forward Craig Swoope, a freshman, is the son of former standout Illini defensive back Craig Swoope, who played football at UI back in the 1980's. The younger Swoope added 2 points, 2 rebounds and 2 assists in 12 minutes played last night.
The Illini improve to 8-2 overall, 0-0 in the Big Ten Conference. Up next: versus Illinois - Chicago at the United Center on Saturday, December 9 at 1:00 PM.
Illinois 87, IUPUI 59
55% field goal shooting and 59% accuracy from behind the arc didn't hurt either. Warren Carter continued his solid play with a game-leading 21 points and he added 8 rebounds for the Illini. Rich McBride converted 6 of 9 treys for 18 points and Jamar Smith came in off the bench for 15 points on 5-of-6 shooting. Chester Frazier did a solid job at the point, handing out 11 assists with only 3 turnovers.
Two senior guards led the way for IUPUI (3-5 overall): David Barlow had 19 points and 5 rebounds while Matt Burks added 17 and 4, respectively.
One interesting side note: IUPUI Guard/forward Craig Swoope, a freshman, is the son of former standout Illini defensive back Craig Swoope, who played football at UI back in the 1980's. The younger Swoope added 2 points, 2 rebounds and 2 assists in 12 minutes played last night.
The Illini improve to 8-2 overall, 0-0 in the Big Ten Conference. Up next: versus Illinois - Chicago at the United Center on Saturday, December 9 at 1:00 PM.
Illinois 87, IUPUI 59
Wednesday, December 06, 2006
#16 Arizona 84, Illinois 72
PHOENIX (AP) -- The last time Arizona and Illinois played, the Fighting Illini staged a late comeback that stunned the Wildcats and denied them a berth in the 2005 Final Four.Regretfully, I predicted this game to be a loss for the Illini when I first saw this season's schedule. The Illini started out strong (for once this season!) and built a comfortable 35-19 lead midway through the first half, only to see Arizona's athleticism get the best of them late.
The 16th-ranked Wildcats are still haunted by that heartbreaker, but may have eased the pain with their 84-72 victory over Illinois in the Basketball Hall of Fame Challenge on Saturday.
The Wildcats (5-1) felt they made a statement after rallying from a 16-point deficit to win a game played at tournament intensity.
"Illinois is a big-time team," said game MVP Chase Budinger, who led Arizona with 22 points and eight rebounds. "They always have a great program. It really tested us to see where we were as a team and as a program."
So, after losing two straight to top 25 teams, the Illini are now 7-2 overall, 0-0 in the Big Ten Conference. Up next: versus IUPUI at the Assembly Hall in Champaign on Wednesday, December 6 at 7:00 PM.
#16 Arizona 84, Illinois 72
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