I was going to go through and predict all the game in the state tournament but, then I went and looked at the Wishoops predictions and noticed that all their picks were essentially the same as mine and I figured what would be the point of just retyping everything that they had just typed. If anyone is interested in making their own predictions on the state tournament and measuring up against all the "experts" on Wishoops, go to http://www.bracketmaker.com/ and find the Wisconsin High School State Tournament. Since I'm not going to go predict all the games I'm just going to predict how the South Central Conference will fair in the first round.
Wisconsin Dells moves on because they have a first round bye.
Nekoosa over Mosinee- Nekoosa isn't a very good team but, Mosinee is even worse.
Adams Friendship over Sparta- Should be no contest here.
Onalaska over Mauston- Kyle Stewart should go wild as Mauston has no one to guard him.
Black River Falls over Westfield- Jack Taylor will light up the Pioneers.
Wautoma over Lomira- Two bad teams match up with Wautoma having the slight edge.
I have the SCC going 3-2 tomorrow night which isn't too bad but, in the long run only Adams and Dells will go anywhere. Tomorrow I will be taking in the Baraboo vs Madison West game because its fairly close to home for me. Should be a great night of basketball tomorrow.
Monday, February 18, 2008
Friday, February 15, 2008
Wisconsin Dells Earns a Share of the Conference Title
In tonights huge South Central Conference matchup, Wisconsin Dells was able to defeat Adams Friendship, 47-37 to clinch a share of the conference title with Adams. This game was a very slow paced game, that wasn't the most pretty thing to watch but, WD was able to out last Adams and win the game.
Adams had the lead for much of the first half and a half court shot hit by Ryan Wenkman propelled Wisconsin Dells into the second half as the took the lead in the third quarter and held on and extended their lead to 10 with some free throws at the end. Three things were the factors that led to the Dells win. The first reason was Dells was able to get offensive rebounds and get second and third chances at the hoop. Number two was their ball movement against the adams zone which led to some easy baskets. The third and maybe the biggest thing was their ability to contain Lance Fritz. Fritz scored 24 points the first time the two teams play but, was held to a very difficult 12 points tonight, three of which came on a last second three when the game was basically over.
It was really a team effort for the Dells in this one as everyone did their past in this one. In the first half it was 6'9 sophomore Nate Gibson that did most of the damage for the Dells. Gibson was able to get position and score inside, pass the ball out of the low and high post, and scored a good portion of his points on offensive rebounds. In the second half Ethan Loofboro was huge, as he hit a pair of three points and had a couple big layups. Loofboro's biggest impact was on the defensive end as he was able to limit Lance Fritz to 12 very hard earned points, from the moment Fritz crossed halfcourt Loofboro was with him. Jade Royston had his usual solid game as he hit a pair of three pointers to help the Chiefs maintain their lead and was able to knock down the free throws to seal the game. Ryan Wenkman didn't score as much as usual but, was had a hand full of steals to help the Dells get the lead and did a great job of finding open teammates for open layups. Big man Alex Buesing didn't make a dent in the scoring column but, he made his presence felt else where. Buesing did a great job of getting offensive rebounds which allowed teammates to be able to score and played some solid defense which included a huge block in the second half.
For Adams Friendship Ben Pease did his best to try and get the Green Devils a win. Pease hit three, three pointers and had a couple nice drives to hoop. Despite struggling in this game Lance Fritz was still AF's second leading scorer and still managed to get 12 points. One thing to note is that Adams star Tommie Gaston was not suited up. Gaston hasn't been the stand out I expected him to be this year, so I can't say one way or the other if he would of made a difference in the outcome of this game.
Scoring Breakdown
Wisconsin Dells 47- Royston 15 Gibson 11 Loofboro 10 Wenkman 7 Ryan Field 2 Laddie Lucke 2 Jimmy Alvin 0 Buesing 0
Adams Friendship 37- Pease 17 Fritz 12 Billy Deane 4 Bryce Wormet 2 Mike Chetney 2 Tony Kuchta 0 #12 0
Coming in the next few days are more state predictions.
Adams had the lead for much of the first half and a half court shot hit by Ryan Wenkman propelled Wisconsin Dells into the second half as the took the lead in the third quarter and held on and extended their lead to 10 with some free throws at the end. Three things were the factors that led to the Dells win. The first reason was Dells was able to get offensive rebounds and get second and third chances at the hoop. Number two was their ball movement against the adams zone which led to some easy baskets. The third and maybe the biggest thing was their ability to contain Lance Fritz. Fritz scored 24 points the first time the two teams play but, was held to a very difficult 12 points tonight, three of which came on a last second three when the game was basically over.
It was really a team effort for the Dells in this one as everyone did their past in this one. In the first half it was 6'9 sophomore Nate Gibson that did most of the damage for the Dells. Gibson was able to get position and score inside, pass the ball out of the low and high post, and scored a good portion of his points on offensive rebounds. In the second half Ethan Loofboro was huge, as he hit a pair of three points and had a couple big layups. Loofboro's biggest impact was on the defensive end as he was able to limit Lance Fritz to 12 very hard earned points, from the moment Fritz crossed halfcourt Loofboro was with him. Jade Royston had his usual solid game as he hit a pair of three pointers to help the Chiefs maintain their lead and was able to knock down the free throws to seal the game. Ryan Wenkman didn't score as much as usual but, was had a hand full of steals to help the Dells get the lead and did a great job of finding open teammates for open layups. Big man Alex Buesing didn't make a dent in the scoring column but, he made his presence felt else where. Buesing did a great job of getting offensive rebounds which allowed teammates to be able to score and played some solid defense which included a huge block in the second half.
For Adams Friendship Ben Pease did his best to try and get the Green Devils a win. Pease hit three, three pointers and had a couple nice drives to hoop. Despite struggling in this game Lance Fritz was still AF's second leading scorer and still managed to get 12 points. One thing to note is that Adams star Tommie Gaston was not suited up. Gaston hasn't been the stand out I expected him to be this year, so I can't say one way or the other if he would of made a difference in the outcome of this game.
Scoring Breakdown
Wisconsin Dells 47- Royston 15 Gibson 11 Loofboro 10 Wenkman 7 Ryan Field 2 Laddie Lucke 2 Jimmy Alvin 0 Buesing 0
Adams Friendship 37- Pease 17 Fritz 12 Billy Deane 4 Bryce Wormet 2 Mike Chetney 2 Tony Kuchta 0 #12 0
Coming in the next few days are more state predictions.
Thursday, February 14, 2008
Middleton Sectional
With about five days left until the start of the state tournament I'll be focusing on my predictions on how the tournament will play out. Today I will be focusing on the division one Middleton sectional.
1. Madison Memorial- Memorial has won this sectional three years in a row and are the claer cut favorite to win the sectional. Memorial is an extremely athletic team that pressures their opponents into turning the ball over and getting easy baskets. Jeronne Maymon is the best player in this sectional and should carry Memorial to state.
8. Baraboo- Took second in a so so conference and lack size. Will be lucky to get past West and if they do they will have no chance against Memorial. Only two bigtime scorers in guards Jordan Taylor and Chris Seibert.
9. Madison West- As I've stated many times before West is an extremely athletic team that lacks discipline. If they get hot from the outside they could blow Baraboo out. I see West taking down Baraboo by just out athleticising them. West will then go and lose to Memorial for a third time this year.
5. Watertown- Coming out of a fairly solid conference, Watertown should have a fairly easy time with Holmen. The Goslings will use balanced scoring and their height to overwhelm the undermaned Holmen team. Watertown will then fall to MVC power Lacrosse Logan.
12. Holmen- Holmen was towards the bottom in a lackluster MVC and should have no chance against the bigger and more athletic Watertown team.
4. Lacrosse Logan- Logan will get a chance to show themselves against a Big Eight team. Sun Praire will keep it close but, Logan's disciplined and talent will pull out the win for them in the end. Logan will then face another tough test in Watertown, who they will take down in a close game and then will bow out to Madison Memorial.
13. Sun Praire- An athletic team should give Logan all they can handle but, in the end what have the talent to hang with the Lacrosse team.
2. Madison Lafollette- Another very athletic Big Eight team. They have lost a few players for the year due to some athletic code violations which will cause them to struggle but, even without those players should be able to beat Tomah and depending on who and for how long those players are suspended for will depend on if they can defeat Deforest or Middleton. As long as Cashton Craig and DJ Fuller are playing they should be able to make it to the sectional came before losing to Waunakee.
15. Tomah- Well its Tomah. They will be lucky to keep the game with Lafollette close.
7. Deforest- Finished the regular season fairly weak and will be lucky to beat Middleton.
10. Middleton- Will handle a struggling Deforest team and then will give Lafollette a scare before their season ends.
6. Lacrosse Central- Won't have the inside presence to handle Marquis Mason and will once again get upset, just like the last two seasons.
11. Madison East- Marquis Mason is one of the top players in this sectional and should go wild and carry his team to a first round victory. Unfortunatly Mason will only be able to carry them through to the second round before they fall to Waunakee.
3. Waunakee- Undefeated team finally gets a chance to show themselves. Their streak of good luck should continue until their matchup with Memorial where their great season will end.
14. Monona Grove- MG has had a very rough season and their finally game of the year will be no different.
Well theres my picks for the Middleton sectional where Madison Memorial will defeat Waunakee in the game to go to state. Tomorrow I'll be looking at the divison two Sun Praire sectional.
1. Madison Memorial- Memorial has won this sectional three years in a row and are the claer cut favorite to win the sectional. Memorial is an extremely athletic team that pressures their opponents into turning the ball over and getting easy baskets. Jeronne Maymon is the best player in this sectional and should carry Memorial to state.
8. Baraboo- Took second in a so so conference and lack size. Will be lucky to get past West and if they do they will have no chance against Memorial. Only two bigtime scorers in guards Jordan Taylor and Chris Seibert.
9. Madison West- As I've stated many times before West is an extremely athletic team that lacks discipline. If they get hot from the outside they could blow Baraboo out. I see West taking down Baraboo by just out athleticising them. West will then go and lose to Memorial for a third time this year.
5. Watertown- Coming out of a fairly solid conference, Watertown should have a fairly easy time with Holmen. The Goslings will use balanced scoring and their height to overwhelm the undermaned Holmen team. Watertown will then fall to MVC power Lacrosse Logan.
12. Holmen- Holmen was towards the bottom in a lackluster MVC and should have no chance against the bigger and more athletic Watertown team.
4. Lacrosse Logan- Logan will get a chance to show themselves against a Big Eight team. Sun Praire will keep it close but, Logan's disciplined and talent will pull out the win for them in the end. Logan will then face another tough test in Watertown, who they will take down in a close game and then will bow out to Madison Memorial.
13. Sun Praire- An athletic team should give Logan all they can handle but, in the end what have the talent to hang with the Lacrosse team.
2. Madison Lafollette- Another very athletic Big Eight team. They have lost a few players for the year due to some athletic code violations which will cause them to struggle but, even without those players should be able to beat Tomah and depending on who and for how long those players are suspended for will depend on if they can defeat Deforest or Middleton. As long as Cashton Craig and DJ Fuller are playing they should be able to make it to the sectional came before losing to Waunakee.
15. Tomah- Well its Tomah. They will be lucky to keep the game with Lafollette close.
7. Deforest- Finished the regular season fairly weak and will be lucky to beat Middleton.
10. Middleton- Will handle a struggling Deforest team and then will give Lafollette a scare before their season ends.
6. Lacrosse Central- Won't have the inside presence to handle Marquis Mason and will once again get upset, just like the last two seasons.
11. Madison East- Marquis Mason is one of the top players in this sectional and should go wild and carry his team to a first round victory. Unfortunatly Mason will only be able to carry them through to the second round before they fall to Waunakee.
3. Waunakee- Undefeated team finally gets a chance to show themselves. Their streak of good luck should continue until their matchup with Memorial where their great season will end.
14. Monona Grove- MG has had a very rough season and their finally game of the year will be no different.
Well theres my picks for the Middleton sectional where Madison Memorial will defeat Waunakee in the game to go to state. Tomorrow I'll be looking at the divison two Sun Praire sectional.
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
Memorial Wins Two
My internet has been down for the last few days and I'm now just finally getting back on the net. During my time of absence I was able to attend two Madison Memorial games. Early on in the year I thought Memorial had to really rely on Jeronne Maymon to do most of their scoring but, these last couple games have shown me otherwise. In one game Maymon was a fourth leading scorer and in the second game he was the second leading scorer but, still only had 12 points.
In my preview of the Memorial vs Lafollette game I said the keys to the game were Lafollette limiting their turnovers, Darnell Small's ability to control J Maymon, and Lafollette's ability to keep Memorial off the offensive boards. Lafollette didn't really turn the ball over much but, Memorial never applied a lot of pressure on Lafollette's guards. Small was a non factor in this game as he picked up two early fouls and ended up playing only five minutes before fouling out. As I stated earlier Maymon still only scored 14 points which came primarily on second chance points and free throws. The one thing that Lafollette didn't do well is keep Memorial off the offensive glass, as Memorial was able to get second and third opportunities at the hoop.
For Memorial Vander Blue was able to get off early as he knocked down some jumpers and got to the inside and score. In the second half it was Devonte Maymon who was able to help extend the lead by knocking down multiple free throws. I already mentioned Jeronne Maymon's impact but, it was Derek Nkemji who really carried Memorial in this one. As he worked hard underneath getting offensive rebounds and fighting for position as he finished with 23 points.
On Lafollettes DJ Fuller was the only player to really get anything going. Fuller was able to get in the lane at will and knock down the 10 foot jumpers and was also able to knock down a couple threes. Their star Cashton Craig really struggled in this game and was forcing things and the shots weren't dropping. Michael Knop was able to come off the bench and hit two quick threes but, then went cold for the rest of the game.
Scoring Breakdown
Memorial 83- Nkemji 23 D. Maymon 17 V Blue 17 J Maymon 14 Tre Creamer 7 Fred Ringhand 2 Erick Blue 2 Eric Lutz 0 Ryan Curtin 0 Xavier Jones 0 Mathew Laubmeier 0 Ryan Murray 0
Lafollette 63- Fuller 28 Craig 9 Javonte Walters 6 Knop 6 Deonte Thompson 6 Steve Chapiewsky 4 Caleb Krueger 2 Small 2 AJ Hallmon 0 Jon Dybevik 0 Brett Klinkner 0 Ryan Waeffler 0 Anthony Nance 0 Jaren Singh 0 Porter 0
The second game I saw Memorial was against Madison West and this game really was a team effort. Memorial was able to get the ball inside to J Maymon who was able to find the open cutters for layups. In the second half Memorial was able to get long rebounds and ignite their fast break and get easy baskets. West who I've said many times is a very undisciplined team, was just that in this game, as the took some very bad shots in the second half and were doing way too much one on one play.
For Memorial Devonte Maymon and Tre Creamer were both able to get out on the break and score as D Maymon had a game high 18 and Creamer had 11 respectivily. Jeronne Maymon finished with 12 points but, probably had 6-8 assists to go along with his double digits rebounds.
For West is was basically a three man show. Michael Horton looked to get teammates involved early on but, when Memorial started to pull away Horton began looking for his own shot and was able to knock down some three pointers. Corvonn Gaines was able to get inside and get fouled which led to most of his points coming from the free throw line. Deon Johnson who is a tremendous leaper was able to pound the offensive glass and had two or three very impressive tip ins.
Scoring Breakdown
Memorial 70- D Maymon 18 J Maymon 12 Creamer 11 Ringhand 6 Nkemnji 6 V Blue 6 Curtin 4 Ace Davis 4 Jones 3 E Blue 0 Lutz 0 Brian McClurg 0 Laubmeier 0 Eric Fruhling 0 Murray 0
West 50- M Horton 15 Gaines 12 Johnson 11 James Horton 7 Daniel Buie 3 Sam Bester 1 John Harth 1 Shaun Kell 0 Mark Domann 0 Michael Krohn 0 Clifford Simon 0 Patrick Remington 0
Doesn't look like I will be attending any more games this week, so I will be focusing primarily on the state tournament on my predictions, which starts next tuesday.
In my preview of the Memorial vs Lafollette game I said the keys to the game were Lafollette limiting their turnovers, Darnell Small's ability to control J Maymon, and Lafollette's ability to keep Memorial off the offensive boards. Lafollette didn't really turn the ball over much but, Memorial never applied a lot of pressure on Lafollette's guards. Small was a non factor in this game as he picked up two early fouls and ended up playing only five minutes before fouling out. As I stated earlier Maymon still only scored 14 points which came primarily on second chance points and free throws. The one thing that Lafollette didn't do well is keep Memorial off the offensive glass, as Memorial was able to get second and third opportunities at the hoop.
For Memorial Vander Blue was able to get off early as he knocked down some jumpers and got to the inside and score. In the second half it was Devonte Maymon who was able to help extend the lead by knocking down multiple free throws. I already mentioned Jeronne Maymon's impact but, it was Derek Nkemji who really carried Memorial in this one. As he worked hard underneath getting offensive rebounds and fighting for position as he finished with 23 points.
On Lafollettes DJ Fuller was the only player to really get anything going. Fuller was able to get in the lane at will and knock down the 10 foot jumpers and was also able to knock down a couple threes. Their star Cashton Craig really struggled in this game and was forcing things and the shots weren't dropping. Michael Knop was able to come off the bench and hit two quick threes but, then went cold for the rest of the game.
Scoring Breakdown
Memorial 83- Nkemji 23 D. Maymon 17 V Blue 17 J Maymon 14 Tre Creamer 7 Fred Ringhand 2 Erick Blue 2 Eric Lutz 0 Ryan Curtin 0 Xavier Jones 0 Mathew Laubmeier 0 Ryan Murray 0
Lafollette 63- Fuller 28 Craig 9 Javonte Walters 6 Knop 6 Deonte Thompson 6 Steve Chapiewsky 4 Caleb Krueger 2 Small 2 AJ Hallmon 0 Jon Dybevik 0 Brett Klinkner 0 Ryan Waeffler 0 Anthony Nance 0 Jaren Singh 0 Porter 0
The second game I saw Memorial was against Madison West and this game really was a team effort. Memorial was able to get the ball inside to J Maymon who was able to find the open cutters for layups. In the second half Memorial was able to get long rebounds and ignite their fast break and get easy baskets. West who I've said many times is a very undisciplined team, was just that in this game, as the took some very bad shots in the second half and were doing way too much one on one play.
For Memorial Devonte Maymon and Tre Creamer were both able to get out on the break and score as D Maymon had a game high 18 and Creamer had 11 respectivily. Jeronne Maymon finished with 12 points but, probably had 6-8 assists to go along with his double digits rebounds.
For West is was basically a three man show. Michael Horton looked to get teammates involved early on but, when Memorial started to pull away Horton began looking for his own shot and was able to knock down some three pointers. Corvonn Gaines was able to get inside and get fouled which led to most of his points coming from the free throw line. Deon Johnson who is a tremendous leaper was able to pound the offensive glass and had two or three very impressive tip ins.
Scoring Breakdown
Memorial 70- D Maymon 18 J Maymon 12 Creamer 11 Ringhand 6 Nkemnji 6 V Blue 6 Curtin 4 Ace Davis 4 Jones 3 E Blue 0 Lutz 0 Brian McClurg 0 Laubmeier 0 Eric Fruhling 0 Murray 0
West 50- M Horton 15 Gaines 12 Johnson 11 James Horton 7 Daniel Buie 3 Sam Bester 1 John Harth 1 Shaun Kell 0 Mark Domann 0 Michael Krohn 0 Clifford Simon 0 Patrick Remington 0
Doesn't look like I will be attending any more games this week, so I will be focusing primarily on the state tournament on my predictions, which starts next tuesday.
Friday, February 8, 2008
Madison Lafollette vs Madison Memorial Preview
Madison Memorial comes into this game having already clinched the Big Eight Conference but, this is still a big rivalry game between two extremely athletic teams. Memorial is looking to finish off the season strong and if Lafollette could get a win here, they would get a huge boost for a deep playoff run. As I stated Memorial has clinched the conference and are sitting at 11-1 in conference and 14-2 overall, while Lafollette is in second place in conference and is 8-3 in conference and 11-4 overall.
This game comes down to three key factors. Can Lafollette handle the Memorial pressure and limit their turnovers? Can Darnell Small limit Jeronne Maymon on the offensive end? Finally, can Lafollette limit Memorial's second chance baskets and control the boards?
Memorial will do what they always do, trap the ball and try to force turnovers to ignite their fast break where they are at their best. They will pound the offensive glass and get second and third opportunities to score. In the half court set they will look to find Jeronne Maymon in the high post where he does a great job of creating a scoring opportunity for himself or teammates.
Lafollette will look to penetrate with their guards and score or dish out to open teammates for three. Lafollette doesn't play the trapping defense that Memorial does but, they are very comfortable getting out and running. They need to get Cashton Craig going early from the outside and continue to go to him throughout the game. In the past games I've seen Lafollette play they seem to stop going to Craig in the second half. DJ Fuller needs to look to get into the lane, where he is at his best. Fuller has a very nice little floater and can create things for teammates.
Rotation Players
Memorial
Jeronne Maymon 6'6 Jr forward 19.7 ppg - I've said it a hundred times. Maymon is the best rebounder in the state and may be the best player in my opinion. Can finish extremely well with either hand.
Vander Blue 6'3 So guard 12.4 ppg - Extremely quick guard that goes to the rim very hard with the ball in his hands and has a very nice mid range jumper. Also rebounds very well.
Devonte Maymon 6'2 Sr guard 11.2 ppg - Very athletic guard that helps out handling the ball and can penetrate inside as well as knock down the three.
Tre Creamer 6'3 So guard 6.9 ppg- Teams point guard that is a very smart player and can score when the opportunity arises.
Derek Nkemji 6'2 Sr forward 6.8 ppg- Defensive stopper that will probably guard Craig. Sacrifices his scoring to play D and help out on the inside rebounding.
Fred Ringhand 6'0 Jr guard 4.2 ppg - Very strong guard that can really shoot the ball.
Ace Davis 6'0 Jr guard 4.5 ppg - Very strong guard that plays great defense and can post up smaller defenders.
Xavier Jones 5'10 Jr guard 3.9 ppg - Does a good job of coming off the bench and running the point and can drop the open three pointer.
Lafollette
Cashton Craig 6'1 Sr guard 15.7 ppg - Sharpshooter that can get his shot off at any time, whether coming off the screen or off the dribble.
DJ Fuller 5'10 So guard 13 ppg - Can get inside at will and has a very nice floater. High energy point guard.
Javonte Walters 6'2 Sr forward 9.7 ppg - Streaky scorer that can get inside and score or hit the three. Plays some pretty good defense also.
Darnell Small 6'4 Sr forward 5.6 ppg- Football player playing basketball. Is very strong on the inside and is a very good rebounder.
Deonte Thompson 6'6 Jr forward 5.5 ppg- Brings some height off the bench. Runs the pick'n'roll great.
Michael Knop 6'0 Sr guard 4.9 ppg - Three point specialist that comes off the bench hot.
Jon Dybevik 6'0 So guard 4.8 ppg - Lead guard that handles the ball very well and has been clutch in tight games.
Caleb Krueger 6'3 Sr forward 4.4 ppg- Inside bruiser that does most of his scoring on offensive rebounds.
My final prediction for the game is that Jeronne Maymon and the Memorial defense will just be too much for Lafollette to handle. Memorial won the previous game by about 20 points, I predict this one will be slightly closer as Memorial wins by 10-15 points.
This game comes down to three key factors. Can Lafollette handle the Memorial pressure and limit their turnovers? Can Darnell Small limit Jeronne Maymon on the offensive end? Finally, can Lafollette limit Memorial's second chance baskets and control the boards?
Memorial will do what they always do, trap the ball and try to force turnovers to ignite their fast break where they are at their best. They will pound the offensive glass and get second and third opportunities to score. In the half court set they will look to find Jeronne Maymon in the high post where he does a great job of creating a scoring opportunity for himself or teammates.
Lafollette will look to penetrate with their guards and score or dish out to open teammates for three. Lafollette doesn't play the trapping defense that Memorial does but, they are very comfortable getting out and running. They need to get Cashton Craig going early from the outside and continue to go to him throughout the game. In the past games I've seen Lafollette play they seem to stop going to Craig in the second half. DJ Fuller needs to look to get into the lane, where he is at his best. Fuller has a very nice little floater and can create things for teammates.
Rotation Players
Memorial
Jeronne Maymon 6'6 Jr forward 19.7 ppg - I've said it a hundred times. Maymon is the best rebounder in the state and may be the best player in my opinion. Can finish extremely well with either hand.
Vander Blue 6'3 So guard 12.4 ppg - Extremely quick guard that goes to the rim very hard with the ball in his hands and has a very nice mid range jumper. Also rebounds very well.
Devonte Maymon 6'2 Sr guard 11.2 ppg - Very athletic guard that helps out handling the ball and can penetrate inside as well as knock down the three.
Tre Creamer 6'3 So guard 6.9 ppg- Teams point guard that is a very smart player and can score when the opportunity arises.
Derek Nkemji 6'2 Sr forward 6.8 ppg- Defensive stopper that will probably guard Craig. Sacrifices his scoring to play D and help out on the inside rebounding.
Fred Ringhand 6'0 Jr guard 4.2 ppg - Very strong guard that can really shoot the ball.
Ace Davis 6'0 Jr guard 4.5 ppg - Very strong guard that plays great defense and can post up smaller defenders.
Xavier Jones 5'10 Jr guard 3.9 ppg - Does a good job of coming off the bench and running the point and can drop the open three pointer.
Lafollette
Cashton Craig 6'1 Sr guard 15.7 ppg - Sharpshooter that can get his shot off at any time, whether coming off the screen or off the dribble.
DJ Fuller 5'10 So guard 13 ppg - Can get inside at will and has a very nice floater. High energy point guard.
Javonte Walters 6'2 Sr forward 9.7 ppg - Streaky scorer that can get inside and score or hit the three. Plays some pretty good defense also.
Darnell Small 6'4 Sr forward 5.6 ppg- Football player playing basketball. Is very strong on the inside and is a very good rebounder.
Deonte Thompson 6'6 Jr forward 5.5 ppg- Brings some height off the bench. Runs the pick'n'roll great.
Michael Knop 6'0 Sr guard 4.9 ppg - Three point specialist that comes off the bench hot.
Jon Dybevik 6'0 So guard 4.8 ppg - Lead guard that handles the ball very well and has been clutch in tight games.
Caleb Krueger 6'3 Sr forward 4.4 ppg- Inside bruiser that does most of his scoring on offensive rebounds.
My final prediction for the game is that Jeronne Maymon and the Memorial defense will just be too much for Lafollette to handle. Memorial won the previous game by about 20 points, I predict this one will be slightly closer as Memorial wins by 10-15 points.
Thursday, February 7, 2008
State Favorites
With the seeding meetings taking place Saturday and Wishoops doing their state favorites and contenders I figured this would be a good time to say who my favorites are and other teams that may have a chance.
D1 Favorite
Milwaukee Washington
Undefeated team and leading the toughest conference year in and year out. Have two big time scorers in Demarcus Phillips and Antone Byrd. 6'8 Patrick Davis is a big time defensive stopper in the middle.
Contenders
Madison Memorial, Wauwatosa East, Appleton East
Memorial is one of the most athletic teams in the state and has a pressure defensive that every team they have faced, have struggled with. Jeronne Maymon is the most versatile big man in the state. Tosa East has the most talent of everyone in the state, the question is do they have the inside pressence and the ability to get everything together to make that state push. Appleton East has been the number one team for much of the year and have been tested playing in one of the top conferences in the state.
Darkhorses
Milwaukee Custer, Milwaukee King, Milwaukee Vincent, Germantown, Waunakee, Milwaukee Pius, Kaukauna
You can never count out the Milwaukee schools. Custer is currently second in the city conference and has been very impressive as of late. King and Vincent have the experience to make the run and are always seem to be in the final eight teams at state. Germantown has only one lose and would of been at state last year had Vincent not made a late run in the sectional final. Waunakee is undefeated, that has to say something. Pius has the best player in the state in Korie Lucious so anything is possible. Kaukauna has already beaten Appleton East and has experience and has been battle tested.
D2 Favorite
Monroe, Waupun
This one was just too close to determine the true favorite. Monroe is the defending champs and are currently undefeated. They are lead by two very good guards in Brett Stangel and Mitch Tordoff and have the big man in the middle in 6'7 Tony Cates. Waupun may be the best shooting team in the state and are extremely disciplined and well rounded. Not to mention they have two 20 plus point scorers in Ryan Rasmussen and Aris Wurtz.
Contenders
Catholic Memorial, Wisconsin Lutheran
Catholic Memorial is a very disciplined team that can go inside or knock down the threes. Wisconsin Lutheran has great athleticism and overall team height. Flavian Davis is a star and if Brandon Whiteside can return to his last year form Wisco could be a serious threat.
Darkhorses
Seymour, Plymouth, Marinette
You can never count out Seymour. They've been to state eight years in a row for a reason. Plymouth is another very well rounded team and are the only team to have beaten Waupun. Marinette has beaten Seymour twice this year so that says enough about them.
D3 Favorite
Whitefish Bay Dominican
Extremely athletic team that has the best back court in D3 if not the state and the best player in D3 and second best in the state, in Kwamain Mitchell. JD Wise is a lock down defender who can also score and Jerel Harris is a very good ball handler that can get inside and score or knock down the three.
Contenders
Laconia, Roncalli, Milwaukee Northwest, Lacrosse Aquinas
Laconia has one of the best starting lineups in the state and have a very good big man in Kieran Weed. Roncalli is a very disciplined team that can really shoot the three. Milwaukee Northwest is an extremely athletic team thats played an extremely difficult schedule. Aquinas has the experience factor and works great together in a half court setting or on the fast break.
Darkhorses
Racine St. Catherines, Eau Claire Regis
St. Cats has the experience and has been playing great as of late. Regis has the height and the discipline to go far in the tournament.
D4 Favorite
Eleva Strum
Were state runners up last year and return two of their top players and are currently undefeated and are dominating everyone they play.
Contenders
Randolph, Benton, Suring
Randolph has been their many times before and are led by sharpshooter Bryan Johnson, Tyler Tillema, the third brother, and 6'9 Kyle Kelm. Benton is led by extremely quick twin guards Jordan and Connor Hendricks. Suring is dominating everyone they play and are led by star point guard Josh Regal.
Darkhorses
Hillsboro, Seneca
Both teams are undefeated and look to be on a collision course in the sectional final to go to state.
As you can see by my favorites division one and four and completely wide open while division two and three are basically narrowed down to four or five teams. Just talking about this is really getting me excited for tournament time and can't wait to get my state tickets in the mail.
Side not my spell check isn't working, so forgive me for any spelling or grammar erros.
D1 Favorite
Milwaukee Washington
Undefeated team and leading the toughest conference year in and year out. Have two big time scorers in Demarcus Phillips and Antone Byrd. 6'8 Patrick Davis is a big time defensive stopper in the middle.
Contenders
Madison Memorial, Wauwatosa East, Appleton East
Memorial is one of the most athletic teams in the state and has a pressure defensive that every team they have faced, have struggled with. Jeronne Maymon is the most versatile big man in the state. Tosa East has the most talent of everyone in the state, the question is do they have the inside pressence and the ability to get everything together to make that state push. Appleton East has been the number one team for much of the year and have been tested playing in one of the top conferences in the state.
Darkhorses
Milwaukee Custer, Milwaukee King, Milwaukee Vincent, Germantown, Waunakee, Milwaukee Pius, Kaukauna
You can never count out the Milwaukee schools. Custer is currently second in the city conference and has been very impressive as of late. King and Vincent have the experience to make the run and are always seem to be in the final eight teams at state. Germantown has only one lose and would of been at state last year had Vincent not made a late run in the sectional final. Waunakee is undefeated, that has to say something. Pius has the best player in the state in Korie Lucious so anything is possible. Kaukauna has already beaten Appleton East and has experience and has been battle tested.
D2 Favorite
Monroe, Waupun
This one was just too close to determine the true favorite. Monroe is the defending champs and are currently undefeated. They are lead by two very good guards in Brett Stangel and Mitch Tordoff and have the big man in the middle in 6'7 Tony Cates. Waupun may be the best shooting team in the state and are extremely disciplined and well rounded. Not to mention they have two 20 plus point scorers in Ryan Rasmussen and Aris Wurtz.
Contenders
Catholic Memorial, Wisconsin Lutheran
Catholic Memorial is a very disciplined team that can go inside or knock down the threes. Wisconsin Lutheran has great athleticism and overall team height. Flavian Davis is a star and if Brandon Whiteside can return to his last year form Wisco could be a serious threat.
Darkhorses
Seymour, Plymouth, Marinette
You can never count out Seymour. They've been to state eight years in a row for a reason. Plymouth is another very well rounded team and are the only team to have beaten Waupun. Marinette has beaten Seymour twice this year so that says enough about them.
D3 Favorite
Whitefish Bay Dominican
Extremely athletic team that has the best back court in D3 if not the state and the best player in D3 and second best in the state, in Kwamain Mitchell. JD Wise is a lock down defender who can also score and Jerel Harris is a very good ball handler that can get inside and score or knock down the three.
Contenders
Laconia, Roncalli, Milwaukee Northwest, Lacrosse Aquinas
Laconia has one of the best starting lineups in the state and have a very good big man in Kieran Weed. Roncalli is a very disciplined team that can really shoot the three. Milwaukee Northwest is an extremely athletic team thats played an extremely difficult schedule. Aquinas has the experience factor and works great together in a half court setting or on the fast break.
Darkhorses
Racine St. Catherines, Eau Claire Regis
St. Cats has the experience and has been playing great as of late. Regis has the height and the discipline to go far in the tournament.
D4 Favorite
Eleva Strum
Were state runners up last year and return two of their top players and are currently undefeated and are dominating everyone they play.
Contenders
Randolph, Benton, Suring
Randolph has been their many times before and are led by sharpshooter Bryan Johnson, Tyler Tillema, the third brother, and 6'9 Kyle Kelm. Benton is led by extremely quick twin guards Jordan and Connor Hendricks. Suring is dominating everyone they play and are led by star point guard Josh Regal.
Darkhorses
Hillsboro, Seneca
Both teams are undefeated and look to be on a collision course in the sectional final to go to state.
As you can see by my favorites division one and four and completely wide open while division two and three are basically narrowed down to four or five teams. Just talking about this is really getting me excited for tournament time and can't wait to get my state tickets in the mail.
Side not my spell check isn't working, so forgive me for any spelling or grammar erros.
Wednesday, February 6, 2008
A Look Back In On The Undefeated Teams
Wow its been almost a week since I last posted and I apologize to anyone thats been looking for a new post. There just hasn't been anything to talk about. Between the weather and lack of big games there just hasn't been much going on. Hopefully this coming weekend I will make a trip down to Madison to watch Lafollette and Memorial play. Then in the next couple weeks I will be focusing on state predictions and thoughts on how the tournament will play out.
Well since I haven't seen any other games I thought this would be a good time to look back at those teams that were undefeated the last time I had looked in on the undefeateds. A portion of these teams have since and lost or beaten teams that I believed could be a problem in their quest for going undefeated.
Division 1
Milwaukee Washington - Regular Season 70% would probably be higher but, I have no idea who Washington is playing in the Chicago Hoopfest tournament this weekend. Washington has already played all the top teams in the City in Custer, Vincent, King, and Bradley Tech. Only team left that could maybe, and that's a big maybe, is Bay View if they got very very hot from the outside. Winning State 15% Yes they are undefeated and are the #1 team in the state but, Washington is in the toughest regional in the state. Custer, King, Bradley Tech will be seen again along with Wauwatosa East and Milwaukee Pius.
Regular season 90% Washington was able to win in the Chicago Hoopfest tournament and barring a huge upset should go undefeated. Winning State 15%
Waunakee- Regular Season 50% They have a rematch with a real good Deforest team and then will probably match up the defending D2 champs in the Badger Challenge, who in my opinion will beat them but, it will be close. Winning State 3% Madison schools have dominated their regional and I just don't think that Waunakee has the athletes to match up with Madison Memorial and Madison Lafollette.
Regular Season 50% They were able to beat Deforest for a second time but, still have the Badger Challenge looming and have to play Badger North second place team Baraboo for a secnd time. Winning State 3%
Division 2
Monroe- Regular Season 50% Tonight are playing a very hot Stoughton team in Stoughton. They will then go to Deforest next week and then have a very very good Verona team coming to town before the possibly match up with Waunakee in the Badger Challenge. I think they will drop a game sometime before the Waunakee game. Winning State 30% I think they will win state but, they will not be undefeated.
Regular season 60% Beat Stoughton and Deforest fairly easily and will be the favored team against Verona and probably Waunakee. Winning State 30%
Fox Valley Lutheran- Regular Season 20% Have to play Little Chute, Freedom, and Xavier again who all gave them very good games. Winning State 5% They would see those same teams again in the playoffs and then would more then likely have to play Waupon sometime.
Ended up losing to Little Chute and then Clintonville in an upset. Still have to play Freedom, Xavier, and a very good Berlin team.
New Richmond- Regular Season 50% Only real challenge left is Rice Lake in which case I'm 50/50 on who will win. Winning State 10% Just too tough for the teams from the north to compete with the southern teams in D2.
Ended up losing to Rice Lake who I was 50/50 on and then lost to D1 River Falls.
Edgerton- Regular Season 40% Has rematches against Parkview and Evansville who played Edgerton close and then have top 10 team Wisconsin Dells coming to town. Winning State 5% Monroe in the same regional.
Another team that fell from the undefeated ranks when theylost to Evansville.
Divison 3
Laconia- Regular Season 90% There is no one that can stop this team in their conference. Winning State 25% Would have to play Iola Scandenavia and Roncalli to get to state where they would then play Aquinas or Dominican eventually.
Regular Season 95% still no one standing in their way. Winning State 25%
Roncalli- Regular Season 70% These guys go undefeated every year but, have played a couple tight games with some teams that they have a rematch with. Winning State 25% Will run into the same problems that I mentioned for Laconia.
In a bit of a shocker lost to Valders that is without their best player.
Arcadia- Regular Season 10% Very tough games against Eleva Strum and Lacresent not to mention D2 Onalaska. Winning State 2% Won't be undefeated and then have Aquinas in their regional and then would have a very good opponent at state.
Dropped a tough one to Eleva Strum on a buzzer shot and still have Lacresent and Onalaska on the way.
Hurley- Regular Season 20% Have to play conference rivals Mellen and Mercer and then have a match up with a team from Minnesota. Winning State 1% Just can't compete with the above teams mentioned.
Dropped a tough one to Washburn and still need to play Mercer and then the Minnesota team.
Division 4
Eleva Strum- Regular Season 75% Only real tough game left against Arcadia which I think they'll win. Winning State 50% D4 favorite for a lot of people.
Regular season 90% were able to beat Arcadia on a buzzer shot. Winning State 50%
Suring- Regular Season 90% Absolutely crushing everyone in the conference. Closests conference game was 22 points beating most teams by 30-50 points. Winning State 25% Will make state undefeated but, then have Eleva Strum and Randolph in their way.
Regular Season 90% Upset is possible but, not probable. Winning State 25%
Benton- Regular Season 75% Dominating as much as Suring is. Only stumbling block may be Six Rivers Challenge. Winning State 20% Still in same sectional as Randolph.
Regular Season 80% Still has Six Rivers Challenge comings. Winning State 20%
Seneca- Regular Season 80% Very good defense should lead them to undefeated season. Winning State 5% Not enough fire power to compete with the big boys.
Regular Season 80% great defense and not much of a challenge. Winning Sate 5%
Hillsboro- Regular Season 50% Still have conference foe Brookwood and then D2 Richland Center. Winning state 5% Once again not enough fire power.
Regular Season 70% beat Richland Center but, still have Brookwood in the season final. Winning State 5%
Luck- Regular Season 10% Hasn't reached the half way point of their season yet and has to play Webster twice yet who is undefeated in conference. Winning State 2% Same reason as Hillsboro and Seneca.
Lost two tough games to conference rival Webster and D3 power Eau Claire Regis.
As can be seen by the number of undefeated teams, dropping from 16 to nine, that its extremely hard to finish the season undefeated. A few of these teams might finish the regular season undefeated but, it will be extremely hard to win the state tournament undefeated.
Well since I haven't seen any other games I thought this would be a good time to look back at those teams that were undefeated the last time I had looked in on the undefeateds. A portion of these teams have since and lost or beaten teams that I believed could be a problem in their quest for going undefeated.
Division 1
Milwaukee Washington - Regular Season 70% would probably be higher but, I have no idea who Washington is playing in the Chicago Hoopfest tournament this weekend. Washington has already played all the top teams in the City in Custer, Vincent, King, and Bradley Tech. Only team left that could maybe, and that's a big maybe, is Bay View if they got very very hot from the outside. Winning State 15% Yes they are undefeated and are the #1 team in the state but, Washington is in the toughest regional in the state. Custer, King, Bradley Tech will be seen again along with Wauwatosa East and Milwaukee Pius.
Regular season 90% Washington was able to win in the Chicago Hoopfest tournament and barring a huge upset should go undefeated. Winning State 15%
Waunakee- Regular Season 50% They have a rematch with a real good Deforest team and then will probably match up the defending D2 champs in the Badger Challenge, who in my opinion will beat them but, it will be close. Winning State 3% Madison schools have dominated their regional and I just don't think that Waunakee has the athletes to match up with Madison Memorial and Madison Lafollette.
Regular Season 50% They were able to beat Deforest for a second time but, still have the Badger Challenge looming and have to play Badger North second place team Baraboo for a secnd time. Winning State 3%
Division 2
Monroe- Regular Season 50% Tonight are playing a very hot Stoughton team in Stoughton. They will then go to Deforest next week and then have a very very good Verona team coming to town before the possibly match up with Waunakee in the Badger Challenge. I think they will drop a game sometime before the Waunakee game. Winning State 30% I think they will win state but, they will not be undefeated.
Regular season 60% Beat Stoughton and Deforest fairly easily and will be the favored team against Verona and probably Waunakee. Winning State 30%
Fox Valley Lutheran- Regular Season 20% Have to play Little Chute, Freedom, and Xavier again who all gave them very good games. Winning State 5% They would see those same teams again in the playoffs and then would more then likely have to play Waupon sometime.
Ended up losing to Little Chute and then Clintonville in an upset. Still have to play Freedom, Xavier, and a very good Berlin team.
New Richmond- Regular Season 50% Only real challenge left is Rice Lake in which case I'm 50/50 on who will win. Winning State 10% Just too tough for the teams from the north to compete with the southern teams in D2.
Ended up losing to Rice Lake who I was 50/50 on and then lost to D1 River Falls.
Edgerton- Regular Season 40% Has rematches against Parkview and Evansville who played Edgerton close and then have top 10 team Wisconsin Dells coming to town. Winning State 5% Monroe in the same regional.
Another team that fell from the undefeated ranks when theylost to Evansville.
Divison 3
Laconia- Regular Season 90% There is no one that can stop this team in their conference. Winning State 25% Would have to play Iola Scandenavia and Roncalli to get to state where they would then play Aquinas or Dominican eventually.
Regular Season 95% still no one standing in their way. Winning State 25%
Roncalli- Regular Season 70% These guys go undefeated every year but, have played a couple tight games with some teams that they have a rematch with. Winning State 25% Will run into the same problems that I mentioned for Laconia.
In a bit of a shocker lost to Valders that is without their best player.
Arcadia- Regular Season 10% Very tough games against Eleva Strum and Lacresent not to mention D2 Onalaska. Winning State 2% Won't be undefeated and then have Aquinas in their regional and then would have a very good opponent at state.
Dropped a tough one to Eleva Strum on a buzzer shot and still have Lacresent and Onalaska on the way.
Hurley- Regular Season 20% Have to play conference rivals Mellen and Mercer and then have a match up with a team from Minnesota. Winning State 1% Just can't compete with the above teams mentioned.
Dropped a tough one to Washburn and still need to play Mercer and then the Minnesota team.
Division 4
Eleva Strum- Regular Season 75% Only real tough game left against Arcadia which I think they'll win. Winning State 50% D4 favorite for a lot of people.
Regular season 90% were able to beat Arcadia on a buzzer shot. Winning State 50%
Suring- Regular Season 90% Absolutely crushing everyone in the conference. Closests conference game was 22 points beating most teams by 30-50 points. Winning State 25% Will make state undefeated but, then have Eleva Strum and Randolph in their way.
Regular Season 90% Upset is possible but, not probable. Winning State 25%
Benton- Regular Season 75% Dominating as much as Suring is. Only stumbling block may be Six Rivers Challenge. Winning State 20% Still in same sectional as Randolph.
Regular Season 80% Still has Six Rivers Challenge comings. Winning State 20%
Seneca- Regular Season 80% Very good defense should lead them to undefeated season. Winning State 5% Not enough fire power to compete with the big boys.
Regular Season 80% great defense and not much of a challenge. Winning Sate 5%
Hillsboro- Regular Season 50% Still have conference foe Brookwood and then D2 Richland Center. Winning state 5% Once again not enough fire power.
Regular Season 70% beat Richland Center but, still have Brookwood in the season final. Winning State 5%
Luck- Regular Season 10% Hasn't reached the half way point of their season yet and has to play Webster twice yet who is undefeated in conference. Winning State 2% Same reason as Hillsboro and Seneca.
Lost two tough games to conference rival Webster and D3 power Eau Claire Regis.
As can be seen by the number of undefeated teams, dropping from 16 to nine, that its extremely hard to finish the season undefeated. A few of these teams might finish the regular season undefeated but, it will be extremely hard to win the state tournament undefeated.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)