Ohio State was in top form at home last night in cruising past conference rival, Illinois. The Buckeyes bounced the Illini 89-70 at Value Center Arena behind a remarkable David Lighty performance. Lighty scored 21 points, including 13 consecutive buckets to lead second ranked Ohio State to their 26th victory. Lighty added four rebounds and a pair of assists in 39 court time minutes. The Buckeyes turned the ball over just three times and stole the ball nine times in an impressive win. Illinois committed 16 turnovers and fell to 17-11 overall on the year. Ohio State maintains a one game lead over Purdue in the Big Ten.
William Buford carried the Buckeyes in the first half with 17 points. Jared Sullinger pitched in 11 points and dominated the boards with 11 rebounds. The game was close in the first half until the Buckeyes pulled away late. Mike Tisdale led the unranked Illini with 12 points in the first half and finished the game with 14. Ohio State took a 15 point advantage into the break and expanded it to 17 early in the second half. But Illinois cut the deficit to six points five minutes later. Senior Mike Davis tallied a team high 18 for Illinois.
The Illini kept pace with the home team, shooting 52 percent to OSU’s 53. The Bucks’ loose second half defense allowed Illinois back into the game. Illinois got to the charity stripe just three times, and struggled to stop the speedy Buckeyes in the paint. The visitors rallied to within nine points with just over ten minutes in regulation. The Illini scored on five of their first eight possessions in the second stanza, but Lighty helped the Buckeyes seize control with a personal 10-0 run. OSU held a comfortable lead for the remainder of the contest. They never dipped below double figures again. Freshman Aaron Craft pulled had six assists and 12 points for Ohio State. Conference leading shooter, Demetri McCamey, did not start but punched through 15 buckets for the losing team.
Parting Points: Band of the day- The White Stripes
The Nets are trying to match the Knicks. New Jersey acquired All-Star, Deron Williams, from the Jazz.
The Cardinals’ Adam Wainwright will be sidelined with an injured elbow.
Showing posts with label Ohio State basketball. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Ohio State basketball. Show all posts
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Buckeyes Bounce Back Beautifully
February frenzy is the pre-cursor to March Madness. Ohio State bounced back in a big way after their loss in Wisconsin on Sunday. The second ranked Buckeyes fought past the Spartans 71-61 on Tuesday. The win lends credibility to why Ohio State still deserves a number one seed in the NCAA tournament next month. William Buford helped get the Bucks back on track with 23 points. Ohio State forced 19 turnovers and pulled away in the second half at Value City Arena for their 12th conference win. Michigan State fell to 6-7 and is log jammed in fifth place in the Big 10. Kalin Lucas led the Spartans with 14 points and five assists in MSU’s sixth straight loss on the road.
Ohio State and Michigan State traded leads eight times throughout the tight first half. Ohio State took a one point edge into the break despite being out-rebounded by MSU. The Buckeyes capitalized on Michigan State’s early foul shooting. Ohio State’s eleven buckets from the stripe secured their first half advantage and made up for poor shooting by a few of Thad Matta’s starters. The Spartans pieced together an impressive first half by shooting over 50%, but couldn’t complete the game in Columbus. MSU opened the second half with a 36-35 lead on Garrick’s Sherman’s layup. OSU answered on back-to-back Spartan turnovers and regained the lead. The Spartans countered again to keep the seesaw second half swinging before David Lighty completed a three-point play for a 45-44 OSU edge.
Tom Izzo’s team was doomed by turnovers as Ohio State widened their lead heading into the final twelve minutes. Jon Diebler and Lighty finished with 12 points each, while Jared Sullinger was held to just 11 points. Draymond Green’s desperation three from the top of the key was followed by a Lucas drive down the lane to narrow OSU’s lead to two. Buford drained a downtown shot from the left wing for a 56-51 Buckeye advantage with just over nine minutes on the clock. Green and Adreian Payne contributed ten points for Izzo’s Spartans. Michigan State rallied to get within four points at the four minute mark, but Ohio State knocked down eight free throws to surge ahead. Ohio State made 23-of-29 from the charity stripe. Michigan had only six attempts from the line. Aaron Craft was pivotal down the stretch for OSU, adding four steals and five free throws on the night. The Buckeyes have won 18 consecutive contests in Columbus.
Parting Points: Albert Pujols is officially a free agent. Where will he land?
On the bookshelf- “Irretrievable” by Theodor Fontane
Ohio State and Michigan State traded leads eight times throughout the tight first half. Ohio State took a one point edge into the break despite being out-rebounded by MSU. The Buckeyes capitalized on Michigan State’s early foul shooting. Ohio State’s eleven buckets from the stripe secured their first half advantage and made up for poor shooting by a few of Thad Matta’s starters. The Spartans pieced together an impressive first half by shooting over 50%, but couldn’t complete the game in Columbus. MSU opened the second half with a 36-35 lead on Garrick’s Sherman’s layup. OSU answered on back-to-back Spartan turnovers and regained the lead. The Spartans countered again to keep the seesaw second half swinging before David Lighty completed a three-point play for a 45-44 OSU edge.
Tom Izzo’s team was doomed by turnovers as Ohio State widened their lead heading into the final twelve minutes. Jon Diebler and Lighty finished with 12 points each, while Jared Sullinger was held to just 11 points. Draymond Green’s desperation three from the top of the key was followed by a Lucas drive down the lane to narrow OSU’s lead to two. Buford drained a downtown shot from the left wing for a 56-51 Buckeye advantage with just over nine minutes on the clock. Green and Adreian Payne contributed ten points for Izzo’s Spartans. Michigan State rallied to get within four points at the four minute mark, but Ohio State knocked down eight free throws to surge ahead. Ohio State made 23-of-29 from the charity stripe. Michigan had only six attempts from the line. Aaron Craft was pivotal down the stretch for OSU, adding four steals and five free throws on the night. The Buckeyes have won 18 consecutive contests in Columbus.
Parting Points: Albert Pujols is officially a free agent. Where will he land?
On the bookshelf- “Irretrievable” by Theodor Fontane
Sunday, February 6, 2011
Take Twenty-four
Undefeated Ohio State manhandled Minnesota 82-69 at Williams Arena in Minneapolis Sunday. The top-ranked Buckeyes basketball team collected their 24th consecutive win in their latest victory over the 18th ranked Gophers. David Lighty sparked the Buckeyes with 19 points and all five starters for Thad Matta finished with double figure games. Ohio State’s unbeaten season still stands, despite a physical, foul-filled conference contest on the road.
Jared Sullinger scored 18 points and pulled down 13 rebounds in the Buckeyes’ 11th Big Ten win. William Buford added 15 in Ohio State’s second win in Minnesota in the last six tries. The Bucks’ hot hand began the game by building a 28-16 lead. The Gophers trailed by eight at the half as the balanced and athletic Buckeyes controlled the pace. Dallas Lauderdale helped the Buckeyes pull away early in the second half with solid inside shooting. Lauderdale scored the first six points of the second half. Lauderdale and Jon Diebler finished with ten points apiece and combined for 13 rebounds against the conference’s leading rebounding squad. Ohio State’s free throw shooting was anything but stellar. Sullinger made just two of his eight attempts from the line and the team averaged just 50% in the game.
The Gophers were led by Blake Hoffarber’s 16 buckets, followed by Ralph Sampson III’s 14. Freshman reserve, Chip Armelin chipped in 14 points as Minnesota lost for the fourth straight game. Minnesota didn’t have enough firepower, although they kept the contest a competitive one. They would only get as close as ten points, keyed by a couple of clutch three pointers. The Gophers stuck with a zone defense in the final period and succeeded in limiting the Bucks to ten points in the last four minutes. The Gophers Achilles heel seemed to be turnovers, as they matched their season high 19 in the defeat. Next up for the nation’s number one team is a Saturday visit to Wisconsin.
Parting Points: GO STEELERS! Happy Superbowl Sunday.
Jared Sullinger scored 18 points and pulled down 13 rebounds in the Buckeyes’ 11th Big Ten win. William Buford added 15 in Ohio State’s second win in Minnesota in the last six tries. The Bucks’ hot hand began the game by building a 28-16 lead. The Gophers trailed by eight at the half as the balanced and athletic Buckeyes controlled the pace. Dallas Lauderdale helped the Buckeyes pull away early in the second half with solid inside shooting. Lauderdale scored the first six points of the second half. Lauderdale and Jon Diebler finished with ten points apiece and combined for 13 rebounds against the conference’s leading rebounding squad. Ohio State’s free throw shooting was anything but stellar. Sullinger made just two of his eight attempts from the line and the team averaged just 50% in the game.
The Gophers were led by Blake Hoffarber’s 16 buckets, followed by Ralph Sampson III’s 14. Freshman reserve, Chip Armelin chipped in 14 points as Minnesota lost for the fourth straight game. Minnesota didn’t have enough firepower, although they kept the contest a competitive one. They would only get as close as ten points, keyed by a couple of clutch three pointers. The Gophers stuck with a zone defense in the final period and succeeded in limiting the Bucks to ten points in the last four minutes. The Gophers Achilles heel seemed to be turnovers, as they matched their season high 19 in the defeat. Next up for the nation’s number one team is a Saturday visit to Wisconsin.
Parting Points: GO STEELERS! Happy Superbowl Sunday.
Friday, February 4, 2011
Seamless in Scarlet
Four days into February and Ohio State basketball remains undefeated. If you’re not a dubious Buckeye fan, you’re enticed, euphoric and excited. Others may be waiting for the ball to drop on OSU’s unblemished 23-0 season. Last night in Columbus, Ohio State collected a win against rival Michigan. The Buckeyes notched a 62-53 victory over the Wolverines, looking like a team that could definitely win a national title. Textbook-skilled freshman, Jared Sullinger hammered in 19 points and 15 rebounds to lead everybody else who saw minutes on the court, on either team. Sullinger turned the ball over four times but otherwise was outstanding. The Wolverines enjoyed a three point lead at the half, but their archrivals rallied to improve to 9-0 in the Big 10. OSU is the only unbeaten team remaining in college basketball. That’s definitely something to cheer about. With Sullinger at the helm, there’s no telling how far this team can ride their unbeaten streak.
The Buckeyes faced Michigan for the second time in less than a month on Thursday night. In January, OSU squeezed out a four-point triumph over the Wolverines. Ohio State took control early on in the game last night. OSU carved out a 7-0 advantage in the first two minutes of the contest. Following a timeout, Michigan slowly climbed back into the game. The Buckeyes were outplayed by Michigan and trailed 26-23 at halftime. Darius Morris fired 10 shots and added five rebounds to lead the blue and maize in the first half. Michigan forced ten first half turnovers and limited the home team to 36% shooting.
Ohio State mopped up the damage of the first half as Michigan struggled to grab takeaways after the break. David Lighty led the OSU charge in the second half. Lighty’s jumper six minutes into the second half gave the Buckeyes the lead, and Ohio State never trailed again. Michigan did tie the score momentarily at 36, but Aaron Craft’s defense started an 8-0 Buckeye run. Michigan fought hard to stay in the game. Evan Smotrycz and Hardaway traded threes to cut the Michigan deficit to two. But Ohio State was clearly up for the test. The Wolverines lost the second half rebounding battle as the Buckeyes’ defense stepped up. Tim Hardaway led the 13-9 visitors with 15 points on 3-of-7 from downtown. William Buford had a strong game for Ohio State, finishing with 13 points and hitting three timely 3-pointers. The 6’9” Sullinger wore out Michigan defenders. The Wolverines were called for 23 fouls on the night and shot just four three throws of their own. Lighty and stupendous senior, John Diebler contributed 9 points in the win.
Parting Points: Song of the day- “Starting Today” by Natalie Imbruglia
Not a whole lot going on. The Mets’ owners are in hot water, Andy Pettitte’s days on the diamond are done, LeBron scored 51 points and the debate for NBA All-star snubs is on.
The Buckeyes faced Michigan for the second time in less than a month on Thursday night. In January, OSU squeezed out a four-point triumph over the Wolverines. Ohio State took control early on in the game last night. OSU carved out a 7-0 advantage in the first two minutes of the contest. Following a timeout, Michigan slowly climbed back into the game. The Buckeyes were outplayed by Michigan and trailed 26-23 at halftime. Darius Morris fired 10 shots and added five rebounds to lead the blue and maize in the first half. Michigan forced ten first half turnovers and limited the home team to 36% shooting.
Ohio State mopped up the damage of the first half as Michigan struggled to grab takeaways after the break. David Lighty led the OSU charge in the second half. Lighty’s jumper six minutes into the second half gave the Buckeyes the lead, and Ohio State never trailed again. Michigan did tie the score momentarily at 36, but Aaron Craft’s defense started an 8-0 Buckeye run. Michigan fought hard to stay in the game. Evan Smotrycz and Hardaway traded threes to cut the Michigan deficit to two. But Ohio State was clearly up for the test. The Wolverines lost the second half rebounding battle as the Buckeyes’ defense stepped up. Tim Hardaway led the 13-9 visitors with 15 points on 3-of-7 from downtown. William Buford had a strong game for Ohio State, finishing with 13 points and hitting three timely 3-pointers. The 6’9” Sullinger wore out Michigan defenders. The Wolverines were called for 23 fouls on the night and shot just four three throws of their own. Lighty and stupendous senior, John Diebler contributed 9 points in the win.
Parting Points: Song of the day- “Starting Today” by Natalie Imbruglia
Not a whole lot going on. The Mets’ owners are in hot water, Andy Pettitte’s days on the diamond are done, LeBron scored 51 points and the debate for NBA All-star snubs is on.
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Columbus’ Cool Customers Continue Creaming Competition
Buckeyes Blast Boilermakers
William Buford drained 19 points and was one of six Buckeyes scoring in double figures as top-ranked Ohio State pasted Purdue in Columbus 87-64 Tuesday. Ohio State won for the 21st consecutive time and remains unbeaten after dismantling the 12th ranked Boilermakers. The streak marks the fourth longest in Buckeye basketball history. The red hot Buckeyes have been tearing up the hardwood since day one of this season. The fever pitch remains on the rise and the Bucks continue to add credibility to their number one ranking with solid defensive rebounding and stellar inside shooting. OSU shot 52% from the field in Tuesday’s Value City Arena victory. The Buckeyes outrebounded the Boilermakers by 14 and led by as many as 31 points against their Big 10 opponents. Purdue fell to 17-4 with the loss.
Ohio State made 6-of-9 from beyond the arc in the first half. The Bucks took a commanding halftime edge and shot 56.7% in the opening session. Jon Diebler poured in 10 points during the first half and finished with 19 on the night. The defense held Purdue without a second-chance point in the first half. Freshman Aaron Craft contributed nine points off Thad Matta’s deep bench as the Buckeyes spread the ball around throughout the game. Buford, David Lighty and Deshaun Thomas all had seven buckets by the break. JaJuan Johnson was the only Purdue shooter able to get anything going offensively. Johnson had 11 points by the half for a Boilermaker team that struggled to hit their three-point shots. Johnson finished with a game high 22 points and led Purdue with seven rebounds. the Buckeyes snatched any momentum back with runs of 14-2 and 13-5 to swell their lead to 35-13 with roughly six minutes left in the half. Purdue trailed 46-26 at halftime.
Jared Sullinger, the hard-to-guard rookie, made his mark in the second half for the dazzling Buckeyes. Sullinger knocked down 17 points and grabbed seven rebounds in the win. He also added seven from the charity stripe. Purdue played a better second half and trimmed their deficit to 17 three times. The lethargic Boilermakers, relying on Johnson and E’Twaun Moore as their only offensive sources, couldn’t piece together a rally. Purdue scored 38 second half points to OSU’s 41 as Buford and Sullinger exchanged late treys to seal the deal for the home team. OSU carved out a 30 point advantage, aided by Thomas’ rebound with 4:19 on the clock. Thomas finished with 13 points, while Lighty scored 11. OSU hit 11-of-19 from the rainbow and now reside two games in front in the Big 10.
Parting Points: The Big East is stacked.
A quote from the epitome of cool- “I never planned anything in my life”- Cool Hand Luke
William Buford drained 19 points and was one of six Buckeyes scoring in double figures as top-ranked Ohio State pasted Purdue in Columbus 87-64 Tuesday. Ohio State won for the 21st consecutive time and remains unbeaten after dismantling the 12th ranked Boilermakers. The streak marks the fourth longest in Buckeye basketball history. The red hot Buckeyes have been tearing up the hardwood since day one of this season. The fever pitch remains on the rise and the Bucks continue to add credibility to their number one ranking with solid defensive rebounding and stellar inside shooting. OSU shot 52% from the field in Tuesday’s Value City Arena victory. The Buckeyes outrebounded the Boilermakers by 14 and led by as many as 31 points against their Big 10 opponents. Purdue fell to 17-4 with the loss.
Ohio State made 6-of-9 from beyond the arc in the first half. The Bucks took a commanding halftime edge and shot 56.7% in the opening session. Jon Diebler poured in 10 points during the first half and finished with 19 on the night. The defense held Purdue without a second-chance point in the first half. Freshman Aaron Craft contributed nine points off Thad Matta’s deep bench as the Buckeyes spread the ball around throughout the game. Buford, David Lighty and Deshaun Thomas all had seven buckets by the break. JaJuan Johnson was the only Purdue shooter able to get anything going offensively. Johnson had 11 points by the half for a Boilermaker team that struggled to hit their three-point shots. Johnson finished with a game high 22 points and led Purdue with seven rebounds. the Buckeyes snatched any momentum back with runs of 14-2 and 13-5 to swell their lead to 35-13 with roughly six minutes left in the half. Purdue trailed 46-26 at halftime.
Jared Sullinger, the hard-to-guard rookie, made his mark in the second half for the dazzling Buckeyes. Sullinger knocked down 17 points and grabbed seven rebounds in the win. He also added seven from the charity stripe. Purdue played a better second half and trimmed their deficit to 17 three times. The lethargic Boilermakers, relying on Johnson and E’Twaun Moore as their only offensive sources, couldn’t piece together a rally. Purdue scored 38 second half points to OSU’s 41 as Buford and Sullinger exchanged late treys to seal the deal for the home team. OSU carved out a 30 point advantage, aided by Thomas’ rebound with 4:19 on the clock. Thomas finished with 13 points, while Lighty scored 11. OSU hit 11-of-19 from the rainbow and now reside two games in front in the Big 10.
Parting Points: The Big East is stacked.
A quote from the epitome of cool- “I never planned anything in my life”- Cool Hand Luke
Saturday, January 22, 2011
Inhibiting Illinois
Ohio State brings their number one ranking to Assembly Hall in Champaign, Illinois this afternoon. The Buckeyes tipoff at noon against the 23rd ranked Illini hoping to extend their undefeated season another day and improve to 20-0 on the year. Ohio State faces a tough test at hostile Assembly Hall in what should be the first of a series of challenging contests in the coming weeks. The Buckeyes will face seven teams ranked in the top 25 in their next nine games.
Today, their 14-5 Big Ten opponents boast an admirable crew in defensive-minded Illinois. The Illini lead the conference in three-point shooting and three-point shooting defense. Assist man, Demetri McCamey, will be a catalyst for the home team. Last season, Evan Turner and the Buckeyes held McCamey to just nine points in a 72-53 victory on the road. The pressure will be heavier for this season’s matchup. Illinois have immense front-court size, solid shooting from beyond the arc and are savvy in the back-court. Starting guard, D.J. Richardson and forward, Bill Cole both shoot well from a distance and will be a tricky test for OSU’s outside guards. Senior Mike Davis leads the Illini in shooting and center Mike Tisdale is more than accurate from the line. The Buckeyes are capable of disposing any team in college basketball, but they must contain the high scoring Illini. Illinois is so effective in creating opportunities for their shooters. The Buckeyes must be careful not to turn the ball over.
Illinois already toppled Michigan State at home this season. The Illini are a team that struggles on the road so should be prepared for a number one ranked OSU squad. Bruce Weber will have them equipped to handle the likes of Jared Sullinger’s outside looks and David Lighty’s diligent drives to the basket. The Bucks had a difficult time defending Penn State in their win over the Lions last weekend, but rebounded to suffocate the Hawkeyes 70-48 on Wednesday. Which OSU team will show up in Champaign this afternoon?
Parting Points: Song of the day-“6, 8, 12” by Brian Mcknight
Manny Ramirez and Johnny Damon reunite in Tampa. Interesting pick-ups for the Rays.
Today, their 14-5 Big Ten opponents boast an admirable crew in defensive-minded Illinois. The Illini lead the conference in three-point shooting and three-point shooting defense. Assist man, Demetri McCamey, will be a catalyst for the home team. Last season, Evan Turner and the Buckeyes held McCamey to just nine points in a 72-53 victory on the road. The pressure will be heavier for this season’s matchup. Illinois have immense front-court size, solid shooting from beyond the arc and are savvy in the back-court. Starting guard, D.J. Richardson and forward, Bill Cole both shoot well from a distance and will be a tricky test for OSU’s outside guards. Senior Mike Davis leads the Illini in shooting and center Mike Tisdale is more than accurate from the line. The Buckeyes are capable of disposing any team in college basketball, but they must contain the high scoring Illini. Illinois is so effective in creating opportunities for their shooters. The Buckeyes must be careful not to turn the ball over.
Illinois already toppled Michigan State at home this season. The Illini are a team that struggles on the road so should be prepared for a number one ranked OSU squad. Bruce Weber will have them equipped to handle the likes of Jared Sullinger’s outside looks and David Lighty’s diligent drives to the basket. The Bucks had a difficult time defending Penn State in their win over the Lions last weekend, but rebounded to suffocate the Hawkeyes 70-48 on Wednesday. Which OSU team will show up in Champaign this afternoon?
Parting Points: Song of the day-“6, 8, 12” by Brian Mcknight
Manny Ramirez and Johnny Damon reunite in Tampa. Interesting pick-ups for the Rays.
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Gator Gnashing
The Buckeyes basketball team employed a similar strategy as the OSU football squad, erupting in the second half to take down the Florida Gators 93-75 last night. The closely contested season opener in Gainesville went the Buckeyes’ way as freshman, Jared Sullinger and senior, David Lighty scored 26 points each in the victory. Sullinger was 13-of-17 with ten rebounds as the Buckeyes outlasted number nine Florida. The youngest player on the floor at O’Connell Center, eighteen year old Sullinger had 16 of his points in the second half. Kenny Boynton led the Gators, hitting five of eight from beyond the arc and finishing with 21 points. OSU defeated Florida for the second time since the 2007 NCAA tournament. The Gators were the victors in that game three years ago.
Ohio State’s stifling defense was effective early but the Buckeyes trailed 41-38 at the half. Florida outscored the visitors in the paint and hit more second-chance points than the Bucks in the first half. Billy Donovan’s team scored on six of seven possessions to open up with a 15-14 edge. The Gators dominated the boards and their offensive rebounding outmatched the Buckeyes. Erik Murphy contributed eight points and grabbed three offensive rebounds off the bench for the Gators. Florida stretched their lead to seven before Ohio State broke back with four points to close in at the half. Dallas Lauderdale, the towering 6’8” center, played 18 minutes for Thad Matta’s Buckeyes. Lauderdale’s absence was advantageous for the Gator offense. Florida took advantage inside.
The lead changed 11 times in the opening of the second half. Ohio State didn’t pull ahead until midway through the half when Jon Diebler’s trey put them up for good. A seasoned shooter, Diebler poured in 14 points, including four from downtown. The Gators seemed to lose their composure on offense during the second half as number four Ohio State outscored them 55-34. Erving Walker had 15 points for Donovan’s Gators, but it was the Buckeyes’ defense that stood in the end. Sullinger finished with his second straight double-double. William Buford grabbed three of the team’s six steals and Florida’s turnovers ignited the OSU defense. Florida shot the ball well but couldn’t contain the Bucks’ second half tempo. Ohio State shot 62% from the field and won the turnover ratio by ten. The Buckeyes performed uncontested layups, dunks and premier perimeter shots, culminating in impressive come-from-behind win.
Parting Points: The UConn women continue to roll, now streaking at 80 straight wins.
Managers of the year honors to Ron Gardenhire and Bud Black.
It’s Splitsville for Eva Longoria and Tony Parker.
Ohio State’s stifling defense was effective early but the Buckeyes trailed 41-38 at the half. Florida outscored the visitors in the paint and hit more second-chance points than the Bucks in the first half. Billy Donovan’s team scored on six of seven possessions to open up with a 15-14 edge. The Gators dominated the boards and their offensive rebounding outmatched the Buckeyes. Erik Murphy contributed eight points and grabbed three offensive rebounds off the bench for the Gators. Florida stretched their lead to seven before Ohio State broke back with four points to close in at the half. Dallas Lauderdale, the towering 6’8” center, played 18 minutes for Thad Matta’s Buckeyes. Lauderdale’s absence was advantageous for the Gator offense. Florida took advantage inside.
The lead changed 11 times in the opening of the second half. Ohio State didn’t pull ahead until midway through the half when Jon Diebler’s trey put them up for good. A seasoned shooter, Diebler poured in 14 points, including four from downtown. The Gators seemed to lose their composure on offense during the second half as number four Ohio State outscored them 55-34. Erving Walker had 15 points for Donovan’s Gators, but it was the Buckeyes’ defense that stood in the end. Sullinger finished with his second straight double-double. William Buford grabbed three of the team’s six steals and Florida’s turnovers ignited the OSU defense. Florida shot the ball well but couldn’t contain the Bucks’ second half tempo. Ohio State shot 62% from the field and won the turnover ratio by ten. The Buckeyes performed uncontested layups, dunks and premier perimeter shots, culminating in impressive come-from-behind win.
Parting Points: The UConn women continue to roll, now streaking at 80 straight wins.
Managers of the year honors to Ron Gardenhire and Bud Black.
It’s Splitsville for Eva Longoria and Tony Parker.
Monday, March 22, 2010
Bucks Bump Bees at Bradley
Sweet Sixteen for Scarlet (and Gray)
Evan Turner recorded a game high 24 points in second seeded Ohio State’s victory over tenth seeded Georgia Tech. The Buckeyes eliminated the Yellow Jackets in the second round of the Midwest region, escaping Milwaukee with a 75-66 win. Ohio State moves on to the Sweet 16 in St. Louis, where the Tennessee Volunteers greet them on Friday. Tennessee bounced Ohio 83-68 on Saturday.
Turner, a junior, provided nine assists and nine rebounds for the smooth-in-transition Buckeyes. Georgia Tech went down with little resistance despite their size and depth advantage. ACC Freshman of the Year, Derrick Favors left the game after five minutes with two fouls. Favors and Gani Lawal picked up three fouls a piece in the first 22 minutes of the contest. Fast breaks by Ohio State hurt Georgia Tech early and a flourishing Ohio State defeated and ailed them late. Tech’s defense spotted a lead in the opening three minutes on three Buckeye turnovers but Ohio State came alive soon enough. The Yellow Jackets yielded two points in the first seven minutes of the contest as the miserable Bucks shot 3-of-13 from the field. Tech dominated at times in the first half but couldn’t hang with the high flying second half Buckeyes. The ACC representatives made adjustments on offense to try to get back in the game. It was challenging to get within striking distance with their foul troubles. The starting frontcourt for the Yellow Jackets didn’t rebound from the loss of their best shooters, but did threaten in the final minutes. Ohio State held off Tech’s last ditch effort to earn their Sweet 16 bid.
Ohio State led 28-26 at the break despite a 34.6% shooting from the field. The Yellow Jackets were sloppy and careless with the ball, committing 21 turnovers. Ohio State also benefited from Tech’s 12 personal fouls in extending a two point halftime lead to 15 points with five minutes in the game. Thad Matta’s Buckeyes did have 18 miscues themselves, but were able to wreck Tech’s rhythm. The Buckeyes have tremendous chemistry and seem to always know what they want to do with the ball. Turner makes every player around him better. The guard did turn the ball over eight times and missed a pair of key free throws in the final two minutes. He was helped the effort of his teammates at Bradley Center yesterday. Jon Diebler scored 17 of his 20 points to lift Ohio State in the second half. Diebler fired four 3-pointers, two in three consecutive possessions, as the Buckeyes continued to drain shots from downtown. David Lighty notched a 3-pointer to ignite a 14-2 Ohio State run, culminating in a 46-32 lead with just over 12 minutes remaining. Favors dazzled in the second half to pull the Yellow Jackets within nine points at the nine minute mark. The Tech freshman finished with 10 points.
The Buckeyes needed pinpoint free throw shooting to ward off an 11-0 Yellow Jacket run in the final minutes. Ohio State hit eight of its last ten from the stripe to stem the comeback. William Buford and Dallas Lauderdale pounded the ball on the inside off Turner feeds. Buford was strong on the glass with 8 rebounds and 6-of-7 from the floor in a 9 point effort. Lighty and Diebler both notched double-digit games, combining for six of the Buckeyes’ eight 3-pointers. Lawal finished with 11 points and Glen Rice, Jr. netted for Georgia Tech. The Yellow Jackets notched just four from the arc and didn’t accumulate enough points inside. The team that single-handedly defeated Oklahoma State on free throws, made 73.7% of their shots from the line Sunday. Ohio State was slightly better, succeeding 73.9%. The Buckeyes seem to have great energy and can win even when Turner draws the attention of defenders. They lack depth, but Matta likes what he has in his strong starting five or six men. The Bucks will have to do more than just ride the hot hand of Turner against Bruce Pearl’s veteran Vols.
Parting Points: Pittsburgh crumbles against Xavier to miss out on the Sweet 16. Only West Virginia and Syracuse survive the weekend for the Big East.
The Twins locked up Joe Mauer with an $184 million extension. Phil Hughes gives up a homerun to end today’s Yankee Spring training game.
Song that sums up Pitt in the first half yesterday- “Basket Case” by Green Day
Evan Turner recorded a game high 24 points in second seeded Ohio State’s victory over tenth seeded Georgia Tech. The Buckeyes eliminated the Yellow Jackets in the second round of the Midwest region, escaping Milwaukee with a 75-66 win. Ohio State moves on to the Sweet 16 in St. Louis, where the Tennessee Volunteers greet them on Friday. Tennessee bounced Ohio 83-68 on Saturday.
Turner, a junior, provided nine assists and nine rebounds for the smooth-in-transition Buckeyes. Georgia Tech went down with little resistance despite their size and depth advantage. ACC Freshman of the Year, Derrick Favors left the game after five minutes with two fouls. Favors and Gani Lawal picked up three fouls a piece in the first 22 minutes of the contest. Fast breaks by Ohio State hurt Georgia Tech early and a flourishing Ohio State defeated and ailed them late. Tech’s defense spotted a lead in the opening three minutes on three Buckeye turnovers but Ohio State came alive soon enough. The Yellow Jackets yielded two points in the first seven minutes of the contest as the miserable Bucks shot 3-of-13 from the field. Tech dominated at times in the first half but couldn’t hang with the high flying second half Buckeyes. The ACC representatives made adjustments on offense to try to get back in the game. It was challenging to get within striking distance with their foul troubles. The starting frontcourt for the Yellow Jackets didn’t rebound from the loss of their best shooters, but did threaten in the final minutes. Ohio State held off Tech’s last ditch effort to earn their Sweet 16 bid.
Ohio State led 28-26 at the break despite a 34.6% shooting from the field. The Yellow Jackets were sloppy and careless with the ball, committing 21 turnovers. Ohio State also benefited from Tech’s 12 personal fouls in extending a two point halftime lead to 15 points with five minutes in the game. Thad Matta’s Buckeyes did have 18 miscues themselves, but were able to wreck Tech’s rhythm. The Buckeyes have tremendous chemistry and seem to always know what they want to do with the ball. Turner makes every player around him better. The guard did turn the ball over eight times and missed a pair of key free throws in the final two minutes. He was helped the effort of his teammates at Bradley Center yesterday. Jon Diebler scored 17 of his 20 points to lift Ohio State in the second half. Diebler fired four 3-pointers, two in three consecutive possessions, as the Buckeyes continued to drain shots from downtown. David Lighty notched a 3-pointer to ignite a 14-2 Ohio State run, culminating in a 46-32 lead with just over 12 minutes remaining. Favors dazzled in the second half to pull the Yellow Jackets within nine points at the nine minute mark. The Tech freshman finished with 10 points.
The Buckeyes needed pinpoint free throw shooting to ward off an 11-0 Yellow Jacket run in the final minutes. Ohio State hit eight of its last ten from the stripe to stem the comeback. William Buford and Dallas Lauderdale pounded the ball on the inside off Turner feeds. Buford was strong on the glass with 8 rebounds and 6-of-7 from the floor in a 9 point effort. Lighty and Diebler both notched double-digit games, combining for six of the Buckeyes’ eight 3-pointers. Lawal finished with 11 points and Glen Rice, Jr. netted for Georgia Tech. The Yellow Jackets notched just four from the arc and didn’t accumulate enough points inside. The team that single-handedly defeated Oklahoma State on free throws, made 73.7% of their shots from the line Sunday. Ohio State was slightly better, succeeding 73.9%. The Buckeyes seem to have great energy and can win even when Turner draws the attention of defenders. They lack depth, but Matta likes what he has in his strong starting five or six men. The Bucks will have to do more than just ride the hot hand of Turner against Bruce Pearl’s veteran Vols.
Parting Points: Pittsburgh crumbles against Xavier to miss out on the Sweet 16. Only West Virginia and Syracuse survive the weekend for the Big East.
The Twins locked up Joe Mauer with an $184 million extension. Phil Hughes gives up a homerun to end today’s Yankee Spring training game.
Song that sums up Pitt in the first half yesterday- “Basket Case” by Green Day
Saturday, March 13, 2010
Excellent Evan’s Euphoric Ending
It wasn’t quite Bo Schembechler versus Woody Hayes, but Ohio State’s 69-68 triumph Friday was escalated because it came against rival Michigan. Basketball games between the schools seldom have the fervor of football games but are still filled with pugnacious play. There’s something special about this rivalry no matter what the sport. It’s considered a huge setback to lose. Buckeye junior, Evan Turner, sent the Wolverines packing with a buzzer beating 37 foot shot in the Big Ten quarterfinal at Conseco Fieldhouse. The top ranked Bucks erupted in celebration after Turner took an inbounds pass with 2.2 seconds on the clock and released a shot over Michigan’s Stu Douglass as time expired. The blue and maize, seeded eighth in the tournament, rallied from 13 points down in the final ten minutes. They took the lead on junior, Manny Harris’ beautiful pull-up jumper with 2.2 seconds remaining. The two point netter should have sealed the surprising win for momentum-snatching Michigan. Officials consulted replay before officially ruling Turner’s basket a good shot. Turner, the probable player of the year in men’s college hoops, finished with 18 points and 8 assists to lead the Buckeyes. The phenom is closing in on 500 points this season. Harris drained 26 points in a disappointing loss for the Wolverines.
Friday’s win jolted the Buckeyes into a semifinal Saturday showdown against Illinois. Ohio State is now 25-7 and will have a legimate chance at a number one seed in the NCAA tournament if they win the Big Ten. Ohio State was down 23-19. The Bucks struggled with consistency on offense and suffered early foul trouble. Dallas Lauderdale went to the Buckeye bench with nine minutes in the half, but Ohio State overpowered the Wolverines to recapture the lead. Jon Diebler notched eight points during a 13 point run for Ohio State. Michigan was forced to play catch-up after trailing by ten at the break. The Wolverines outscored the Buckeyes 43-34 in the second half. Turner made just one of eight shots in an ailing and inaccurate second half for the junior. John Beilein’s Wolverines chopped the Buckeye’s edge to four points on back-to-back treys by Douglass. Douglass followed up with another 3-pointer to maintain the four point deficit before Ohio State went on a 9-0 run midway through the second half.
Harris sparked Michigan’s comeback with 22 second half buckets. Thad Matta’s Bucks allowed Michigan back into the game, something Hayes surely would not accept had this been on the gridiron. The Wolverines cut the Buckeye lead to two points in the fine frantic minutes. Harris’ floating jumper over Lauderdale was the highlight of Michigan’s comeback, and unfortunately for the Wolverines, the last hurrah. Turner put an end to the short-lived Michigan jubilee. The Wolverines chose not to defend Turner on the inbounds pass from David Lighty. The Big Ten Player of the Year’s remarkable shot will go down as one of the most memorable clutch plays in history of Ohio State basketball. Turner’s 37-footer did not even touch the backboard. It was nothing but net for Evan, and nothing but awesome for the scarlet and gray. I love how Matta plays his starters for all forty minutes. That decision is a testament to the trust he has in his players. All four Buckeyes who clocked forty minutes logged double digits. The Buckeyes are a rhythmic, grinding hardwood team. They played with plenty of heart against a motivated Michigan team. If #21 is not the player of the year, it’s time to eradicate the voters.
Parting Points: It’s nice to see Minnesota go on a bit of a run. They really cranked it up a notch in overtime against Michigan State in order to advance.
The Big East final is set for Saturday—A meeting between Georgetown and WVU.
Kansas pulled away from Texas A&M to reach the finals in the Big 12.
Friday’s win jolted the Buckeyes into a semifinal Saturday showdown against Illinois. Ohio State is now 25-7 and will have a legimate chance at a number one seed in the NCAA tournament if they win the Big Ten. Ohio State was down 23-19. The Bucks struggled with consistency on offense and suffered early foul trouble. Dallas Lauderdale went to the Buckeye bench with nine minutes in the half, but Ohio State overpowered the Wolverines to recapture the lead. Jon Diebler notched eight points during a 13 point run for Ohio State. Michigan was forced to play catch-up after trailing by ten at the break. The Wolverines outscored the Buckeyes 43-34 in the second half. Turner made just one of eight shots in an ailing and inaccurate second half for the junior. John Beilein’s Wolverines chopped the Buckeye’s edge to four points on back-to-back treys by Douglass. Douglass followed up with another 3-pointer to maintain the four point deficit before Ohio State went on a 9-0 run midway through the second half.
Harris sparked Michigan’s comeback with 22 second half buckets. Thad Matta’s Bucks allowed Michigan back into the game, something Hayes surely would not accept had this been on the gridiron. The Wolverines cut the Buckeye lead to two points in the fine frantic minutes. Harris’ floating jumper over Lauderdale was the highlight of Michigan’s comeback, and unfortunately for the Wolverines, the last hurrah. Turner put an end to the short-lived Michigan jubilee. The Wolverines chose not to defend Turner on the inbounds pass from David Lighty. The Big Ten Player of the Year’s remarkable shot will go down as one of the most memorable clutch plays in history of Ohio State basketball. Turner’s 37-footer did not even touch the backboard. It was nothing but net for Evan, and nothing but awesome for the scarlet and gray. I love how Matta plays his starters for all forty minutes. That decision is a testament to the trust he has in his players. All four Buckeyes who clocked forty minutes logged double digits. The Buckeyes are a rhythmic, grinding hardwood team. They played with plenty of heart against a motivated Michigan team. If #21 is not the player of the year, it’s time to eradicate the voters.
Parting Points: It’s nice to see Minnesota go on a bit of a run. They really cranked it up a notch in overtime against Michigan State in order to advance.
The Big East final is set for Saturday—A meeting between Georgetown and WVU.
Kansas pulled away from Texas A&M to reach the finals in the Big 12.
Friday, November 13, 2009
Scarlet Shooting Sizzling
Thad Matta’s 2010 Buckeyes should have no problem decimating opponents. Ohio State basketball looks as promising as ever with the announced signing of six top-notch recruits Thursday. Northland center, Jared Sullinger and forward, J.D. Weatherspoon joined forward, DeShaun Thomas and guards, Lenzelle Smith, Jr., Aaron Craft and Jordan Sibert in declaring Ohio State their school by faxing signed letters to the university. The super six arguably make up the number one recruiting class in the country. While the buzz in Columbus heightens for the future of men’s basketball, Matta’s current undergrads are having little trouble establishing their presence. The number 16 ranked Buckeyes face defending national title winners, North Carolina next Thursday after taking down James Madison 72-44 last night.
Evan Turner cleaned up the court Monday against undersized Alcorn State. The 6’7” Turner turned in a triple double at Value City Arena and the entire Buckeyes team fed off their star. The 100-60 final score doesn’t diminish what Turner accomplished. It was just the second triple-double in program history. Turner’s wide array of skills were on display Thursday night too. Turner followed up his triple-double with 24 points and 17 rebounds in powering OSU to a win over the Dukes. His monster effort in the 2K Sports Classic Thursday propelled OSU to a semifinal showdown with the Tarheels at Madison Square Garden.
The Buckeyes’ 2008-09 season ended at the Big Dance with a first-round loss to Siena in double overtime. Matta coached the Buckeyes to a 22-win season without all Big 10 forward Turner at point guard. With Turner debuting at guard this season, Matta seems NCAA tournament-bound again. The conference’s scoring leader also ranks third in rebounding. His supporting cast is a strong crop of returning starters. David Lighty, the sprightly 6’5” forward is a redshirt junior considered the Buckeyes’ finest, most versatile player. Lighty is the only remaining Buckeye from the 2006-07 NCAA finalist team. He broke his foot early last season but appears at full strength for the Bucs this year. Number 23 added 14 points, while helping OSU begin the second half on a 10-0 run against James Madison. He hit a bucket for three, and contributed five more points on the Buckeyes next 10-0 run. Turner, Lighty and P.J. Hill all have four steals so far this season. Jon Diebler , a junior shooter, joined Turner in the backcourt last season. This season, he projects to be as dangerous a shooter as he was during his freshman year in Columbus. Sophomore guard, William Buford netted 12 for the 2-0 Buckeyes last night. Dallas Lauderdale, whose name reminds me of a plane ticket stub, missed the season opener for Ohio State. The starting center came off the bench Thursday for 13 minutes to snag four rebounds and pocket a pair of points.
Fans turned on by Turner and Matta’s Buckeyes have even more to look forward to with the recruiting class of 2010. But don’t overlook the 2009 ringers. Michigan State is picked to win the prestigious Big 10 crown. The Spartans are poised to repeat as conference champions after they rolled to the NCAA finals a year ago. The Buckeyes and Purdue are the teams that will give conference player of the year, Kalin Lucas and the Spartans are run for their title. The scarlet and gray don’t play the Spartans until February 20th when they travel to Michigan State University. As long as Turner is on the hardwood and the Bucs aren’t short-handed, they will remain competitive. Talent goes a long way in men’s hoops. Good coaching and heart usually take you even farther. Ohio State has all three this year. Since his arrival in Columbus, Matta has done nothing but guide the Buckeyes to victories. The Butler alum has more wins as head coach after five seasons than any other at OSU men’s hoops. Matta’s teams continue to knock off top ranked opponents and gain national exposure and attention. His teams blend a defense-oriented set with offensive skills to assail and attack the opposition. Most Ohio State fans will focus this weekend on the football team’s quest for the Big 10 title with Iowa. If Jim Tressel’s football team falls short, the basketball team is on the cusp of a great season. So wear your scarlet and gray this week. Tomorrow the fracas with Iowa will decide the Big 10 crown. Then, Turner and hoops visit the grand Mecca of basketball to try their hand with North Carolina next week.
Parting Points: Song for hang time- “Hanging by a Moment” by Lifehouse
LeBron James is changing his uniform number from 23 to 6 to honor Michael Jordan. Why did he wear the number in the first place?
Evan Turner cleaned up the court Monday against undersized Alcorn State. The 6’7” Turner turned in a triple double at Value City Arena and the entire Buckeyes team fed off their star. The 100-60 final score doesn’t diminish what Turner accomplished. It was just the second triple-double in program history. Turner’s wide array of skills were on display Thursday night too. Turner followed up his triple-double with 24 points and 17 rebounds in powering OSU to a win over the Dukes. His monster effort in the 2K Sports Classic Thursday propelled OSU to a semifinal showdown with the Tarheels at Madison Square Garden.
The Buckeyes’ 2008-09 season ended at the Big Dance with a first-round loss to Siena in double overtime. Matta coached the Buckeyes to a 22-win season without all Big 10 forward Turner at point guard. With Turner debuting at guard this season, Matta seems NCAA tournament-bound again. The conference’s scoring leader also ranks third in rebounding. His supporting cast is a strong crop of returning starters. David Lighty, the sprightly 6’5” forward is a redshirt junior considered the Buckeyes’ finest, most versatile player. Lighty is the only remaining Buckeye from the 2006-07 NCAA finalist team. He broke his foot early last season but appears at full strength for the Bucs this year. Number 23 added 14 points, while helping OSU begin the second half on a 10-0 run against James Madison. He hit a bucket for three, and contributed five more points on the Buckeyes next 10-0 run. Turner, Lighty and P.J. Hill all have four steals so far this season. Jon Diebler , a junior shooter, joined Turner in the backcourt last season. This season, he projects to be as dangerous a shooter as he was during his freshman year in Columbus. Sophomore guard, William Buford netted 12 for the 2-0 Buckeyes last night. Dallas Lauderdale, whose name reminds me of a plane ticket stub, missed the season opener for Ohio State. The starting center came off the bench Thursday for 13 minutes to snag four rebounds and pocket a pair of points.
Fans turned on by Turner and Matta’s Buckeyes have even more to look forward to with the recruiting class of 2010. But don’t overlook the 2009 ringers. Michigan State is picked to win the prestigious Big 10 crown. The Spartans are poised to repeat as conference champions after they rolled to the NCAA finals a year ago. The Buckeyes and Purdue are the teams that will give conference player of the year, Kalin Lucas and the Spartans are run for their title. The scarlet and gray don’t play the Spartans until February 20th when they travel to Michigan State University. As long as Turner is on the hardwood and the Bucs aren’t short-handed, they will remain competitive. Talent goes a long way in men’s hoops. Good coaching and heart usually take you even farther. Ohio State has all three this year. Since his arrival in Columbus, Matta has done nothing but guide the Buckeyes to victories. The Butler alum has more wins as head coach after five seasons than any other at OSU men’s hoops. Matta’s teams continue to knock off top ranked opponents and gain national exposure and attention. His teams blend a defense-oriented set with offensive skills to assail and attack the opposition. Most Ohio State fans will focus this weekend on the football team’s quest for the Big 10 title with Iowa. If Jim Tressel’s football team falls short, the basketball team is on the cusp of a great season. So wear your scarlet and gray this week. Tomorrow the fracas with Iowa will decide the Big 10 crown. Then, Turner and hoops visit the grand Mecca of basketball to try their hand with North Carolina next week.
Parting Points: Song for hang time- “Hanging by a Moment” by Lifehouse
LeBron James is changing his uniform number from 23 to 6 to honor Michael Jordan. Why did he wear the number in the first place?
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