Being that everyone has played each other once in conference it seemed like a good time to see how I've done so far with my predictions for the South Central Conference. So far my predictions have been pretty accurate, with Wisconsin Dells and Adams head and shoulders above everyone else and the remaining teams just beat up on each other.
My Predictions
1. Wisconsin Dells 9-1
Adams Friendship 9-1
3. Nekoosa 4-6
Wautoma 4-6
5. Mauston 3-7
6. Westfield 1-9
Actual
Team Conference Overall
Adams Friendship 5-0 6-3
Wisconsin Dells 4-1 8-2
Mauston 2-3 4-3
Nekoosa 2-3 4-6
Westfield 1-4 7-5
Wautoma 1-4 3-7
So far Adams and Dells have done what I thought, beat the four other teams. Now Wisconsin Dells just needs to win at Adams and I'll have these two teams predicted right for conference and hopefully neither team will drop a game they should win. Mauston may be slightly better then I thought or the other teams are worse, they have two conference wins and should be able to overcome the three wins I predicted. Nekoosa has done about what I though as they are 2-3 at the half way mark and double that and they will be the 4-6 record I predicted. Westfield has there one win I had predicted, so they have a chance to be better then the one win team I had predicted. Wautoma is worse then what I thought and have a lot of work ahead of them if their to make it to the 4-6 record I predicted.
In non-conference most of the teams have struggled as expected with the conference being weak on a whole. Dells being one of the top teams has done well in non conference and Westfield who has benefited from a weak schedule, which does not appear to be helping them in conference play.
Kind of taking a break right now from games and not updating my rankings because I have only seen one new team play. I will be updating rankings next week and Friday I'm hoping to see Madison Memorial vs Middleton play which should be a very good game and giving me my first opportunity to see Memorial play, who I usually try to follow fairly closely, as I really love to watch those Collin's coached teams.
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
Saturday, January 5, 2008
Middleton over Madison East
Was originally going to go to the Deforest vs Evansville game but, then realized that Middleton and East were playing and figured that would be a better game. I was right as Deforest beat Evansville by 20 and Middleton defeated Madison East 62-57 in a pretty good game. East jumped out early and had a lead of four points after the first quarter but, by half time Middleton had a lead of 10 points and never looked back. There really wasn't one thing that could be pointed to for the reason that Middleton won. Throughout the majority of the game East was able to control the boards for much of the game but, in the end Middleton's depth wore East down and Middleton was able to control the boards towards the end of the game. Despite East getting two or three shots every time down the court they just couldn't get the shots to fall and still continue to lack the depth necessary to make a charge towards the top half of the conference or make a run in the playoffs. Middleton once again went 12 men deep and had nine different players score.
Marquis Mason seems to be getting some more help in the scoring column but, East still only got two points off their bench. One player for Madison East that I really like is 6'2 senior forward Al Mayne. Mayne plays at an extremely high energy level and does all the little things. Mayne is probably the Purgolders best defender, outside of Mason's shot blocking ability, and typically guards the opposing teams best player, whether it be a guard or a post player. I have seen East play three times and Mayne has guarded Eau Claire Memorials high energy 6'3 forward Collin Cooper, Madison Lafollete sharpshooter 6'1 guard Cashton Craig, and then tonight guarded 6'4 forward Jon Stubbe and then switched to 6'0 point guard Brooks Braga, when he started to heat up. Tonight really showed off Mayne's game as he filled the stat sheet. Mayne had 14 points, probably 10 plus rebounds, at least 3 blocks, and a couple assists. Not to mention Stubbe only score four first half points when Mayne was on him, when the switch was made to Braga, Braga was held scoreless for the rest of the game and Stubbe score 11 points in the second half. Mason has his typical game as he was able to score inside with ease, when he wasn't triple teamed. If the East guards can feed Mason the ball, he should easily score 20 points a game. If Mayne can continue to score in double digits East will continue to improve and if they can get some bench scoring or another legit scoring option they will be able to make a move up to the top half of the conference.
Middleton was their usual balanced self as they had nine different players score. Jon Stubbe once again he should he is a great shooter as he was able to knock down some threes in leading the Cardinals in scoring. Junior point guard Brooks Braga, who disappointed me a bit the last time I saw him, really came to play tonight did a great job of handling the East pressure and be able to get inside and score. Dan Lochner who was big off the bench once again used his strength to get inside, get fouled and finish. Despite the fact the Middleton does not have a star to watch, I have found myself really liking this team. Its nice to see that if one player struggles there is always another player that can pick up the scoring. I also really like the fact that coach Bavery gives all his players a chance and really plays everyone evenly and whoever has the hot hand will be playing in the fourth quarter.
Scoring
Madison East 57- Mason 24 Mayne 14 Augustine Avelleyra 7 Wade Smith 5 Yamil Bacallao 5 James Bartelt 2 Jonathan Wilson 0 Walt Hetzel 0 Devin Murray 0
Middleton 62- Stubbe 15 Lochner 14 Braga 10 Brett Semenas 5 Justin Mertes-Mistretta 5 Taylor Diem 4 Kevin Kruckenberg 3 Joe Dean 3 Keegan Nesvacil 3 Dan Trautman 0 Jay Nunnery 0 Andrew Hudson 0
Not sure whats to come the next few days if I'll be having much to post about the next few days. Not many games to watch and since I've only seen one knew team so not much for changes in the ranking of teams or rankings.
Marquis Mason seems to be getting some more help in the scoring column but, East still only got two points off their bench. One player for Madison East that I really like is 6'2 senior forward Al Mayne. Mayne plays at an extremely high energy level and does all the little things. Mayne is probably the Purgolders best defender, outside of Mason's shot blocking ability, and typically guards the opposing teams best player, whether it be a guard or a post player. I have seen East play three times and Mayne has guarded Eau Claire Memorials high energy 6'3 forward Collin Cooper, Madison Lafollete sharpshooter 6'1 guard Cashton Craig, and then tonight guarded 6'4 forward Jon Stubbe and then switched to 6'0 point guard Brooks Braga, when he started to heat up. Tonight really showed off Mayne's game as he filled the stat sheet. Mayne had 14 points, probably 10 plus rebounds, at least 3 blocks, and a couple assists. Not to mention Stubbe only score four first half points when Mayne was on him, when the switch was made to Braga, Braga was held scoreless for the rest of the game and Stubbe score 11 points in the second half. Mason has his typical game as he was able to score inside with ease, when he wasn't triple teamed. If the East guards can feed Mason the ball, he should easily score 20 points a game. If Mayne can continue to score in double digits East will continue to improve and if they can get some bench scoring or another legit scoring option they will be able to make a move up to the top half of the conference.
Middleton was their usual balanced self as they had nine different players score. Jon Stubbe once again he should he is a great shooter as he was able to knock down some threes in leading the Cardinals in scoring. Junior point guard Brooks Braga, who disappointed me a bit the last time I saw him, really came to play tonight did a great job of handling the East pressure and be able to get inside and score. Dan Lochner who was big off the bench once again used his strength to get inside, get fouled and finish. Despite the fact the Middleton does not have a star to watch, I have found myself really liking this team. Its nice to see that if one player struggles there is always another player that can pick up the scoring. I also really like the fact that coach Bavery gives all his players a chance and really plays everyone evenly and whoever has the hot hand will be playing in the fourth quarter.
Scoring
Madison East 57- Mason 24 Mayne 14 Augustine Avelleyra 7 Wade Smith 5 Yamil Bacallao 5 James Bartelt 2 Jonathan Wilson 0 Walt Hetzel 0 Devin Murray 0
Middleton 62- Stubbe 15 Lochner 14 Braga 10 Brett Semenas 5 Justin Mertes-Mistretta 5 Taylor Diem 4 Kevin Kruckenberg 3 Joe Dean 3 Keegan Nesvacil 3 Dan Trautman 0 Jay Nunnery 0 Andrew Hudson 0
Not sure whats to come the next few days if I'll be having much to post about the next few days. Not many games to watch and since I've only seen one knew team so not much for changes in the ranking of teams or rankings.
Friday, January 4, 2008
Adams over Dells
As I had predicted Adams Friendship beat Wisconsin Dells, which raised my prediction record to 18-13. I may of gotten the outcome right but, was way off on the final score. I had predicted a final score of 40-36 but, the final ended up being Adams 63 Dells 47. This game was much higher scoring game then the past and was not nearly as close as previous match ups. At the half Adams was up by three, then after the third they were up by 12, and then finished off winning by 16 as Dells began taking some bad shots that led to some easy Adams basket.
Two things really stood out in this game for me. First Dells really played some poor defense. In the second half it seemed every basket for Adams was an uncontested layup. Adams players were able to penetrate the Dells defense and either finish or find a wide open teammate. Wisconsin Dells also did a poor job of getting back after a miss or made basket as Adams was able to just simply beat the Dells defenders up the court which led to easy baskets. The second thing was the continued struggles of Dells point guard Ryan Wenkman. I think the Dells needs Wenkman to score at least 15 plus points a game for them to win and right now he's really struggling to find his shot from the inside and hasn't been looking to penetrate much as of late.
First thing that sticks out about Adams Friendship is that they have only eight players on their team and that is with one guy that played half of JV. I find this very surprising with Adams rich basketball tradition, who wouldn't wanna be around a winner? You think they could find 12 guys to play. Prior to the game I had really talked about Tommie Gaston being such a great player but, he really was a non factor in the game. I believe Gaston had missed a game or two do to injury, which is why I believe he didn't start the game. When Gaston did finally get in the game he picked up two quick fouls and then later picked up a third and then his fourth very quickly. The foul trouble never allowed Gaston to really get into the flow of the game. I honestly thought that Gaston would easily be in my top 15 players I've seen but, after this game he will not be making an appearance in my top players, even though he probably should be, he just didn't impress tonight. Lance Fritz who I had briefly mention was the star of this game. Fritz finished with 24 points and was able to score in a variety of ways. He knocked down a three point shot, hit a jumper or two, was able to penetrate and finish, made his free throws, and at times just out ran everyone down the court to get an easy lay in. Ben Pease also had a pretty good game as he was able to penetrate the Dells defense and score and did a good job of teaming with Fritz to bring the ball up and limit turnovers. Couple other guys to take note of are Bryce Wormet who at 6'3 came off the bench to knock down a three and had an "dunk", which I believe may of been accidental, and Billy Deane, who at only 6'1 did a great job of battling on the offensive and defensive glass.
Wisconsin Dells continued to look out of sink in this game and continued to struggled against the zone. Right now they just have no real offense against the zone, as the are unable to get the ball inside and continue to settle for the three point shot. They did shoot the three ball better tonight but, just settling for three point shots is not going to win you games. Jade Royston once again led the Chiefs as he was the only player to be able to get inside and draw some contact and finish and then was able to connect on his free throws. I already mentioned the struggles of Ryan Wenkman, who also struggled from the line as he went 3-6 unofficially from the line. Nathan Miller who I thought could be a big factor in this came couldn't get out of coach Rohlings doghouse and was constantly sent to the bench and could never really get into the flow of the game. 6'9 sophomore Nate Gibson was really limited in his touches do to the zone by did have about a five minute run where he was able to score all seven of his points. I think if Gibson could just get himself in better position to get the ball his scoring would really pick up.
Box Score
Wisconsin Dells 47- Royston 18 Wenkman 8 Gibson 7 Laddie Lucke 6 Ryan Field 4 Miller 4 Ethan Loofboro 0 Alex Beusing 0
Adams 63- Fritz 24 Pease 13 Wormet 8 Deane 8 Gaston 7 Tony Kuchta 3 Mike Chetney 0
Well tomorrow I may or may not be headed to Deforest to watch the Evansville vs Deforest game, so we may have some game updates otherwise may just have some talk about the Wisconsin game. Side not Wisconsin Badger and Wisconsin Dells Alum JP Gavinski was at the game tonight which I thought was kinda weird considering that the Badgers will be playing tomorrow at 11 am.
Two things really stood out in this game for me. First Dells really played some poor defense. In the second half it seemed every basket for Adams was an uncontested layup. Adams players were able to penetrate the Dells defense and either finish or find a wide open teammate. Wisconsin Dells also did a poor job of getting back after a miss or made basket as Adams was able to just simply beat the Dells defenders up the court which led to easy baskets. The second thing was the continued struggles of Dells point guard Ryan Wenkman. I think the Dells needs Wenkman to score at least 15 plus points a game for them to win and right now he's really struggling to find his shot from the inside and hasn't been looking to penetrate much as of late.
First thing that sticks out about Adams Friendship is that they have only eight players on their team and that is with one guy that played half of JV. I find this very surprising with Adams rich basketball tradition, who wouldn't wanna be around a winner? You think they could find 12 guys to play. Prior to the game I had really talked about Tommie Gaston being such a great player but, he really was a non factor in the game. I believe Gaston had missed a game or two do to injury, which is why I believe he didn't start the game. When Gaston did finally get in the game he picked up two quick fouls and then later picked up a third and then his fourth very quickly. The foul trouble never allowed Gaston to really get into the flow of the game. I honestly thought that Gaston would easily be in my top 15 players I've seen but, after this game he will not be making an appearance in my top players, even though he probably should be, he just didn't impress tonight. Lance Fritz who I had briefly mention was the star of this game. Fritz finished with 24 points and was able to score in a variety of ways. He knocked down a three point shot, hit a jumper or two, was able to penetrate and finish, made his free throws, and at times just out ran everyone down the court to get an easy lay in. Ben Pease also had a pretty good game as he was able to penetrate the Dells defense and score and did a good job of teaming with Fritz to bring the ball up and limit turnovers. Couple other guys to take note of are Bryce Wormet who at 6'3 came off the bench to knock down a three and had an "dunk", which I believe may of been accidental, and Billy Deane, who at only 6'1 did a great job of battling on the offensive and defensive glass.
Wisconsin Dells continued to look out of sink in this game and continued to struggled against the zone. Right now they just have no real offense against the zone, as the are unable to get the ball inside and continue to settle for the three point shot. They did shoot the three ball better tonight but, just settling for three point shots is not going to win you games. Jade Royston once again led the Chiefs as he was the only player to be able to get inside and draw some contact and finish and then was able to connect on his free throws. I already mentioned the struggles of Ryan Wenkman, who also struggled from the line as he went 3-6 unofficially from the line. Nathan Miller who I thought could be a big factor in this came couldn't get out of coach Rohlings doghouse and was constantly sent to the bench and could never really get into the flow of the game. 6'9 sophomore Nate Gibson was really limited in his touches do to the zone by did have about a five minute run where he was able to score all seven of his points. I think if Gibson could just get himself in better position to get the ball his scoring would really pick up.
Box Score
Wisconsin Dells 47- Royston 18 Wenkman 8 Gibson 7 Laddie Lucke 6 Ryan Field 4 Miller 4 Ethan Loofboro 0 Alex Beusing 0
Adams 63- Fritz 24 Pease 13 Wormet 8 Deane 8 Gaston 7 Tony Kuchta 3 Mike Chetney 0
Well tomorrow I may or may not be headed to Deforest to watch the Evansville vs Deforest game, so we may have some game updates otherwise may just have some talk about the Wisconsin game. Side not Wisconsin Badger and Wisconsin Dells Alum JP Gavinski was at the game tonight which I thought was kinda weird considering that the Badgers will be playing tomorrow at 11 am.
Thursday, January 3, 2008
Adams Friendship vs Wisconsin Dells Preview
Very big game this Friday night as Adams Friendship takes on my Alma Mater Wisconsin Dells. The two games played each year between these two teams are always decided for conference in recent years and these two teams are always in the top 10 for division two. Currently both teams are 4-0 in conference and Adams is ranked 13th while the Dells is ranked 9th. Both teams are coming off some tough loses to some very good teams in Janesville Craig and Eau Claire Regis. In the past five years Dells has won conference four times and Adams has one conference once and never finished worse then third in conference. In that time span Dells leads the series 7-4 with six of those games being within five points or less and only two games decided by 15 or more points. Last year Adams was able to defeat Wisconsin Dells twice during the regular season on their way to a conference title and then in the playoffs the Dells was able to knock off Adams on their way to state. This all adds up to a very good game in a very heated rivalry. The Adams vs Dells rivalry is easily the best in the area and is one of the best in the state.
Wisconsin Dells is lead by two very good guards in Ryan Wenkman and Jade Royston. Both guys are averaging 15-20 points a game and have the ability to carry the team if need be. The third option on this team is up for grabs. The guy that looks to be that third option is 6'9 sophomore Nate Gibson whose had some big games but, is still very raw and doesn't have the ability to carry the team yet. Nathan Miller is the x-factor in the game if he's healthy which has been a rarity in his three years on varsity. Miller is a 6'3 forward that has the ability to get inside and score and can also spot up for the outside shot if he gets a chance to set his feet. Miller looked very good in the game against Regis and he will be needed to be big once again against Adams if the Dells wants to win this one. Anyone that has followed my blog has heard a lot about these Dells players so no need to go into too much detail.
I have not seen Adams Friendship this year so I am going mostly on last year and what I've heard, on what to expect. AF is led by one of the top juniors in the state and the best player in the conference in 6'4 junior Tommie Gaston. Gaston can jump out of the gym and gets a large portion of his points forcing turnovers on the top of Adams 1-3-1 defense. Gaston is not just a dunker though, he handles the ball very well for a kid his size and can knock down the three point shot, and penetrate and finish in traffic. I've gone this far and this is the first time I've mention Adams 1-3-1 defense. Their zone defense is one of the best and around and has been perfected by the Green Devils and coach Klass, which typical leads to low scoring games as teams continue to struggle against the zone. Another player to keep an eye on is Adams point guard Ben Pease who is in his fourth year on varsity and while he isn't a big time scorer does a very good job of running the offense and setting teammates up with open shots. A couple new comers to varsity have also been key to Adams this year in 6'1 junior Lance Fritz and 6'4 sophomore Bryce Wormet. Fritz is a shooter that has already had a game where he score 30 points and Wormet is a sophomore starting on varsity, no need to say more.
Now that I've given all the facts and a little history, who do I take in the game? Unfortunately for my Alma mater I'm taking Adams Friendship. Wisconsin Dells really struggled against the 2-3 zone defense played by Eau Claire Regis and Adams 1-3-1 should be a tougher defense then Regis's. Dells really lacked the ability to get the ball inside and settled for the three point shot which wasn't dropping. Guessing the game will be in the upper 30s or low 40s. Taking a score of Adams 40- Dells 36.
Wisconsin Dells is lead by two very good guards in Ryan Wenkman and Jade Royston. Both guys are averaging 15-20 points a game and have the ability to carry the team if need be. The third option on this team is up for grabs. The guy that looks to be that third option is 6'9 sophomore Nate Gibson whose had some big games but, is still very raw and doesn't have the ability to carry the team yet. Nathan Miller is the x-factor in the game if he's healthy which has been a rarity in his three years on varsity. Miller is a 6'3 forward that has the ability to get inside and score and can also spot up for the outside shot if he gets a chance to set his feet. Miller looked very good in the game against Regis and he will be needed to be big once again against Adams if the Dells wants to win this one. Anyone that has followed my blog has heard a lot about these Dells players so no need to go into too much detail.
I have not seen Adams Friendship this year so I am going mostly on last year and what I've heard, on what to expect. AF is led by one of the top juniors in the state and the best player in the conference in 6'4 junior Tommie Gaston. Gaston can jump out of the gym and gets a large portion of his points forcing turnovers on the top of Adams 1-3-1 defense. Gaston is not just a dunker though, he handles the ball very well for a kid his size and can knock down the three point shot, and penetrate and finish in traffic. I've gone this far and this is the first time I've mention Adams 1-3-1 defense. Their zone defense is one of the best and around and has been perfected by the Green Devils and coach Klass, which typical leads to low scoring games as teams continue to struggle against the zone. Another player to keep an eye on is Adams point guard Ben Pease who is in his fourth year on varsity and while he isn't a big time scorer does a very good job of running the offense and setting teammates up with open shots. A couple new comers to varsity have also been key to Adams this year in 6'1 junior Lance Fritz and 6'4 sophomore Bryce Wormet. Fritz is a shooter that has already had a game where he score 30 points and Wormet is a sophomore starting on varsity, no need to say more.
Now that I've given all the facts and a little history, who do I take in the game? Unfortunately for my Alma mater I'm taking Adams Friendship. Wisconsin Dells really struggled against the 2-3 zone defense played by Eau Claire Regis and Adams 1-3-1 should be a tougher defense then Regis's. Dells really lacked the ability to get the ball inside and settled for the three point shot which wasn't dropping. Guessing the game will be in the upper 30s or low 40s. Taking a score of Adams 40- Dells 36.
Wednesday, January 2, 2008
4th Round Player Rankings
Every week the ranking of players gets harder and harder. Its difficult to remember players that I have only seen once early in the year and to remember what impressed me about them. This past week I saw five new teams so I have a decent amount of players to add to the rankings. Well here are my new rankings and I'll try to do my best.
Player Rankings
1.Marquis Mason 6'5 forward sophomore Madison East (2)- Very strong post player that can do it all. Can knock down the outside shot, runs the court well, blocks shots, and is very very strong in the post. Had a bad game against Lafollette and probably would of moved down if Cashton Craig hadn't struggled too.
2. Lucas Burns 6'6 forward senior Janesville Craig (2)- Slight edge over Cashton Craig because he does so much more then just scores. Does a great job of rebounding and passing. Really lets the game come to him and doesn't force things. Very smooth player that can really knock down the outside shot and being 6'6 doesn't hurt either.
3. Cashton Craig 6'1 guard senior Madison Lafollette (2)- Very good shooter that can really get hot. Moves very well without the ball in his hands. Forces things at times and can go cold at times from the outside. Really just a scorer doesn't rebound very well.
4. Johnnie Lacy 5'11 guard junior Milwaukee Bay View (2)- Very good scorer that can go off at any time and has an engine that doesn't stop. Has really improve in becoming more of a point guard and not just a scorer
.5. Jimmy Whitehead 6'1 guard junior Lacrosse Aquinas (1)- Most improved player I have seen this year. Handles the ball very well and can get where he wants at anytime. Has a very good mid range jumper.
6. Kieran Weed 6'5 forward senior Laconia (1)- Kid that can jump out of the gym, that can one step and dunk. Weed is a beast on the inside that is very tough to stop and has the ability to go outside and hit the mid range jumper or three pointer. Also runs the court very well.
7. Jojo Pregont 6'6 center junior Janesville Craig (2)- Very strong inside with the ball. Really crashes the boards and does a great job getting inside position and moving without the ball.
8. Derek Braucht 6'6 forward junior Madison Edgewood (1)- Very good shooter that can also drive to the hoop and find open teammates. Doesn't look like it but, is a fairly strong player.
9. DJ Fuller 5'10 guard sophomore Madison Lafollette (1)- Didn't play the first time I saw Lafollette. Has a very good cross over that allows him to get into the lane. Has a very good floater shot and is a very strong player. Another guy that has an engine that never quits.
10. Tyler Mazur 6'4 guard junior Reedsburg (1/2)- Gets his feet set very quick, which helps him get his shot off very quick coming off the screen. A guard but, at 6'4 has the ability to go inside and can really jump.
11. Jade Royston 6'0 guard junior Wisconsin Dells (2)- Very smooth player that can hit the outside shot or penetrate and pull up for the mid range jumper. Big time scorer. Not afraid to put his team on his back.
12. Corvonn Gaines 6'5 forward senior Madison West (2)- Shoots the outside shot very well from a set position and does a great job of running the court.
13. Evan VanCleave 6'0 guard senior Reedsburg (1/2)- Ultra quick guard with very good handles and goes to the hoop very strong. Also has the ability to knock down the 15 footer.
14. Michael Horton 6'2 guard senior Madison West (2)- Pass first point guard that's always looking to set up his teammates. Handles the ball very well and can knock down the three point shot.
15. Kyle Goike 6'3 forward junior Janesville Craig (2)- Very good mid range shot and goes to the hoop hard.
HM
Ryan Wenkman 5'11 guard senior Wisconsin Dells (2)
Charles Lee 5'7 guard freshmen Milwaukee Bay View (2)
Lucas Morrissey 6'3 forward senior Lacrosse Aquinas (1)
Michael Hanson 6'6 forward junior Lacrosse Aquinas (1)
Keegan Meier 6'3 forward junior Eau Claire Memorial (1)
Casey Balczewski 6'4 forward senior Madison Edgewood (1)
Deon Johnson 6'4 guard senior Madison West (2)
Senior Rankings
1.Lucas Burns 6'6 forward Janesville Craig
2. Cashton Craig 6'1 guard Madison Lafollette
3. Kieran Weed 6'5 forward Laconia
4. Corvonn Gaines 6'5 forward Madison West
5. Evan VanCleave 6'0 guard Reedsburg
6. Michael Horton 6'2 guard Madison West
7. Ryan Wenkman 5'11 guard Wisconsin Dells (2)- Very hard nosed lead guard that uses his strength to get inside and score. Handles the ball very well and can knock down the three point shot.
8. Lucas Morrissey 6'3 forward Lacrosse Aquinas (1)- Guy that does a little bit of everything. Rebounds very well, can bring the ball up the court, and shoots a very high percentage from the line and three point range.
9. Deon Johnson 6'4 guard Madison West (2)- Very strong player that can jump outta the gym and goes to the hoop strong. Has the ability to knock down the outside shot as well.
10. Casey Balczewski 6'4 forward Madison Edgewood (1)- Strong player that battles inside. Team leader that passes the ball very well from the high post.
HM
Jon Stubbe 6'4 forward Middleton (1)
Zach Rickaway 6'3 forward Lacrosse Aquinas (1)
Michael Collins 6'3 guard Madison West (1)
Collin Cooper 6'3 forward Eau Claire Memorial (1)
Junior Rankings
1. Johnnie Lacy 5'11 guard Milwaukee Bay View
2. Jimmy Whitehead 6'1 guard Lacrosse Aquinas
3. Jojo Pregont 6'6 center Janesville Craig
4. Derek Braucht 6'6 forward Madison Edgewood
5. Tyler Mazur 6'4 guard Reedsburg
6. Jade Royston 6'0 guard Wisconsin Dells
7. Kyle Goike 6'3 forward Janesville Craig
8. Michael Hanson 6'6 forward Lacrosse Aquinas (1)- Big man with a very soft touch out to the three point line. Another kid that can really jump.
9. Keegan Meier 6'3 forward Eau Claire Memorial (1)- Big time scorer that can go to the hoop strong or knock down the outside shot.
10. John Loomans 6'4 forward Portage (1)- Goes to the hoop very strong and can pull up for the 15 footer. Very aggressive player.
HM
Brenden Wittchow 6'0 guard Laconia (1)
Derek Semenas 6'3 forward Laconia (1)
Nick Bowe 6'4 forward Eau Claire Regis (1)
Sophomore Rankings
1. Marquis Mason 6'5 forward Madison East
2. DJ Fuller 5'10 guard Madison Lafollette
3. Kevin Hurd 6'0 guard Portage (1)- Does a very good job of running the offense and doesn't need much room to get his shot off.
4. Demetrius Turner 6'4 forward Milwaukee Bay View (2)- Athletic guy that likes to run and goes to the hoop strong. Is a very strong rebounder and shot blocker.
5. Jon Dybevik 6'0 guard Madison Lafollette (2)- Handles the ball very well and goes to the hoop strong. Plays like an upper classman.
6. Jeff Hull 6'4 forward Madison East (2)- Good mid range game where he can pass or shoot the jumper. Likes to go inside and bang.
7. Jack Eaton 5'10 guard Eau Claire Regis (1)- Player with ice water veins that can knock down the big three pointers and hit the clutch free throws.
8. Robert Littleton 6'1 guard Milwaukee Bay View (1)- Athletic guy that likes to run the floor and rebounds well for a guard.
9. Nate Gibson 6'9 center Wisconsin Dells (1)- Big guy that is a little raw but, shows some promise and wants the ball in the post with his back to the basket.
Freshmen Rankings
1. Charles Lee 5'7 guard Milwaukee Bay View (2)- Very quick lead guard that does a great job of getting in the lane and finding open teammates for layups.
2. Elgin Cook 6'3 guard Milwaukee Bay View (2)- Guy that goes to the hoop and can finish strong and is also a very good rebounder.
3. Darnell Harris 6'6 forward Milwaukee Bay View (2)- Extremely good defender that can block shots and knows when to take the charge. Also has a soft touch around the rim.
4. Samar Powell 5'6 guard Milwaukee Bay View (2)- Hard nosed player that is not afraid to go inside and can knock down the outside shot.
5. Haki Stampely 6'0 guard Milwaukee Bay View (1)- Guard that can really put his head down and score.
Well there are my new rankings. I know they aren't perfect but, those are my personal opinions of the top players that I have seen. I apologize to the players that I saw early in the year because I may not remember all the positives of your game and also to the players that just had a bad game when I saw you play. Hopefully I will get a chance to see those guys play a second time and make a more accurate judgement.
Player Rankings
1.Marquis Mason 6'5 forward sophomore Madison East (2)- Very strong post player that can do it all. Can knock down the outside shot, runs the court well, blocks shots, and is very very strong in the post. Had a bad game against Lafollette and probably would of moved down if Cashton Craig hadn't struggled too.
2. Lucas Burns 6'6 forward senior Janesville Craig (2)- Slight edge over Cashton Craig because he does so much more then just scores. Does a great job of rebounding and passing. Really lets the game come to him and doesn't force things. Very smooth player that can really knock down the outside shot and being 6'6 doesn't hurt either.
3. Cashton Craig 6'1 guard senior Madison Lafollette (2)- Very good shooter that can really get hot. Moves very well without the ball in his hands. Forces things at times and can go cold at times from the outside. Really just a scorer doesn't rebound very well.
4. Johnnie Lacy 5'11 guard junior Milwaukee Bay View (2)- Very good scorer that can go off at any time and has an engine that doesn't stop. Has really improve in becoming more of a point guard and not just a scorer
.5. Jimmy Whitehead 6'1 guard junior Lacrosse Aquinas (1)- Most improved player I have seen this year. Handles the ball very well and can get where he wants at anytime. Has a very good mid range jumper.
6. Kieran Weed 6'5 forward senior Laconia (1)- Kid that can jump out of the gym, that can one step and dunk. Weed is a beast on the inside that is very tough to stop and has the ability to go outside and hit the mid range jumper or three pointer. Also runs the court very well.
7. Jojo Pregont 6'6 center junior Janesville Craig (2)- Very strong inside with the ball. Really crashes the boards and does a great job getting inside position and moving without the ball.
8. Derek Braucht 6'6 forward junior Madison Edgewood (1)- Very good shooter that can also drive to the hoop and find open teammates. Doesn't look like it but, is a fairly strong player.
9. DJ Fuller 5'10 guard sophomore Madison Lafollette (1)- Didn't play the first time I saw Lafollette. Has a very good cross over that allows him to get into the lane. Has a very good floater shot and is a very strong player. Another guy that has an engine that never quits.
10. Tyler Mazur 6'4 guard junior Reedsburg (1/2)- Gets his feet set very quick, which helps him get his shot off very quick coming off the screen. A guard but, at 6'4 has the ability to go inside and can really jump.
11. Jade Royston 6'0 guard junior Wisconsin Dells (2)- Very smooth player that can hit the outside shot or penetrate and pull up for the mid range jumper. Big time scorer. Not afraid to put his team on his back.
12. Corvonn Gaines 6'5 forward senior Madison West (2)- Shoots the outside shot very well from a set position and does a great job of running the court.
13. Evan VanCleave 6'0 guard senior Reedsburg (1/2)- Ultra quick guard with very good handles and goes to the hoop very strong. Also has the ability to knock down the 15 footer.
14. Michael Horton 6'2 guard senior Madison West (2)- Pass first point guard that's always looking to set up his teammates. Handles the ball very well and can knock down the three point shot.
15. Kyle Goike 6'3 forward junior Janesville Craig (2)- Very good mid range shot and goes to the hoop hard.
HM
Ryan Wenkman 5'11 guard senior Wisconsin Dells (2)
Charles Lee 5'7 guard freshmen Milwaukee Bay View (2)
Lucas Morrissey 6'3 forward senior Lacrosse Aquinas (1)
Michael Hanson 6'6 forward junior Lacrosse Aquinas (1)
Keegan Meier 6'3 forward junior Eau Claire Memorial (1)
Casey Balczewski 6'4 forward senior Madison Edgewood (1)
Deon Johnson 6'4 guard senior Madison West (2)
Senior Rankings
1.Lucas Burns 6'6 forward Janesville Craig
2. Cashton Craig 6'1 guard Madison Lafollette
3. Kieran Weed 6'5 forward Laconia
4. Corvonn Gaines 6'5 forward Madison West
5. Evan VanCleave 6'0 guard Reedsburg
6. Michael Horton 6'2 guard Madison West
7. Ryan Wenkman 5'11 guard Wisconsin Dells (2)- Very hard nosed lead guard that uses his strength to get inside and score. Handles the ball very well and can knock down the three point shot.
8. Lucas Morrissey 6'3 forward Lacrosse Aquinas (1)- Guy that does a little bit of everything. Rebounds very well, can bring the ball up the court, and shoots a very high percentage from the line and three point range.
9. Deon Johnson 6'4 guard Madison West (2)- Very strong player that can jump outta the gym and goes to the hoop strong. Has the ability to knock down the outside shot as well.
10. Casey Balczewski 6'4 forward Madison Edgewood (1)- Strong player that battles inside. Team leader that passes the ball very well from the high post.
HM
Jon Stubbe 6'4 forward Middleton (1)
Zach Rickaway 6'3 forward Lacrosse Aquinas (1)
Michael Collins 6'3 guard Madison West (1)
Collin Cooper 6'3 forward Eau Claire Memorial (1)
Junior Rankings
1. Johnnie Lacy 5'11 guard Milwaukee Bay View
2. Jimmy Whitehead 6'1 guard Lacrosse Aquinas
3. Jojo Pregont 6'6 center Janesville Craig
4. Derek Braucht 6'6 forward Madison Edgewood
5. Tyler Mazur 6'4 guard Reedsburg
6. Jade Royston 6'0 guard Wisconsin Dells
7. Kyle Goike 6'3 forward Janesville Craig
8. Michael Hanson 6'6 forward Lacrosse Aquinas (1)- Big man with a very soft touch out to the three point line. Another kid that can really jump.
9. Keegan Meier 6'3 forward Eau Claire Memorial (1)- Big time scorer that can go to the hoop strong or knock down the outside shot.
10. John Loomans 6'4 forward Portage (1)- Goes to the hoop very strong and can pull up for the 15 footer. Very aggressive player.
HM
Brenden Wittchow 6'0 guard Laconia (1)
Derek Semenas 6'3 forward Laconia (1)
Nick Bowe 6'4 forward Eau Claire Regis (1)
Sophomore Rankings
1. Marquis Mason 6'5 forward Madison East
2. DJ Fuller 5'10 guard Madison Lafollette
3. Kevin Hurd 6'0 guard Portage (1)- Does a very good job of running the offense and doesn't need much room to get his shot off.
4. Demetrius Turner 6'4 forward Milwaukee Bay View (2)- Athletic guy that likes to run and goes to the hoop strong. Is a very strong rebounder and shot blocker.
5. Jon Dybevik 6'0 guard Madison Lafollette (2)- Handles the ball very well and goes to the hoop strong. Plays like an upper classman.
6. Jeff Hull 6'4 forward Madison East (2)- Good mid range game where he can pass or shoot the jumper. Likes to go inside and bang.
7. Jack Eaton 5'10 guard Eau Claire Regis (1)- Player with ice water veins that can knock down the big three pointers and hit the clutch free throws.
8. Robert Littleton 6'1 guard Milwaukee Bay View (1)- Athletic guy that likes to run the floor and rebounds well for a guard.
9. Nate Gibson 6'9 center Wisconsin Dells (1)- Big guy that is a little raw but, shows some promise and wants the ball in the post with his back to the basket.
Freshmen Rankings
1. Charles Lee 5'7 guard Milwaukee Bay View (2)- Very quick lead guard that does a great job of getting in the lane and finding open teammates for layups.
2. Elgin Cook 6'3 guard Milwaukee Bay View (2)- Guy that goes to the hoop and can finish strong and is also a very good rebounder.
3. Darnell Harris 6'6 forward Milwaukee Bay View (2)- Extremely good defender that can block shots and knows when to take the charge. Also has a soft touch around the rim.
4. Samar Powell 5'6 guard Milwaukee Bay View (2)- Hard nosed player that is not afraid to go inside and can knock down the outside shot.
5. Haki Stampely 6'0 guard Milwaukee Bay View (1)- Guard that can really put his head down and score.
Well there are my new rankings. I know they aren't perfect but, those are my personal opinions of the top players that I have seen. I apologize to the players that I saw early in the year because I may not remember all the positives of your game and also to the players that just had a bad game when I saw you play. Hopefully I will get a chance to see those guys play a second time and make a more accurate judgement.
Sunday, December 30, 2007
4th Round Team Rankings
This round of rankings was a difficult one for me. Their were a couple of real tough decisions. One of the tough ones were Wisconsin Dells, Eau Claire Regis, and Reedsburg. Regis beat the Dells in the game I witnessed and the day before Reedsburg dominated Regis but, in the beginning of the year Dells was able to defeat Reedsburg. I know I said that I was only going to take games into consideration that I had seen but, how can you not think about how these teams have done in games that they had played earlier in the year. Another tough ranking was Middleton who I saw defeat Milwaukee Bay View. I still personally feel that Bay View is a better team but, Middleton just played better this one particular game and also taken into consideration is that Middleton beat Madison Lafollette who I feel is a superior team to Middleton and will probably beat Lafollette the second time around. Once again I will be putting in ( ) how many times I've seen them play.
Rankings
1. Janesville Craig (2)- Their height and defense give Craig an advantage over every team that they play. The have four legit stars in Lucas Burns, Cooper Cullen, Jojo Pregont, and Kyle Goike. This team prefers to play a slow tempo and take their time on offense but, can just as easily play an uptempo game.
2. Madison Lafollette (2)- Really showed me something the way they handled Madison East even with their star Cashton Craig being a non-factor. Lafollette gets the edge over Bay View because they did beat them and have the experience edge. DJ Fuller appears ready to become the #2 scoring option for Lafollette and Darnell Small and Deonte Thompson have provided a low post presence that I believed they lacked.
3. Middleton (1)- Giving Middleton the edge over Bay View because they did beat them even though I feel that Bay View would win the second time around. They are a very disciplined team where everyone knows there role and does their fair share. They don't have that go to guy but, that may be an advantage so that if one player is struggling the entire team isn't struggling.
4. Milwaukee Bay View (2)- Very athletic team, that is also very young. Johnnie Lacy is one of the top players in the country and this team will only get better as the year goes on. They will be able to provide pressure, forcing teams to turn the ball over and allowing for easy baskets.
5. Lacrosse Aquinas (1)- Team that works very very well together. Can really push the tempo but, are just as affective in the half court set. The have a couple glue guys in Lucas Morrissey and Zach Rickaway along with Jimmy Whitehead who is really becoming the star of this team.
6. Laconia (1)- Have a very good starting five that is probably as good as anyone in the state. Kieran Weed is a real stud that can score from anywhere on the court. Their only down fall is their lack of bench depth.
7. Madison Edgewood (1)- Very disciplined team that's very patient on the offensive end and really plays good defense. All five players on the court really attack the glass on offense and defense. Every player on the team seems to know their roll and excepts it.
8. Madison West (2)- This team is much better then I previously thought. They are an extremely athletic team that can score in a hurry. If they keep the ball in point guard Michael Horton's hands they can beat anyone, along with remaining patience and not becoming selfish or flustered when they get down.
9. Eau Claire Regis (1)- Tall team that is another very balanced team. Like Middleton don't have a real go to player which works to their favor. In division three this team is easily a top 10 team.
10. Madison East (2)- This is the because this is the biggest one man team I have seen in awhile. Marquis Mason is a great player but, right now he doesn't have any help. If Mason has a big game then East can play with anyone but, if he doesn't score East has no chance against anyone. Right now the teams I have behind lack a inside presence and Mason would probably torch them.
11. Wisconsin Dells (2)- If East is a one man team, then Wisconsin Dells is the biggest two man team I've seen. Jade Royston and Ryan Wenkman are two very good players but, there really isn't much else there. As of right now I don't think Dells could beat any of the teams ranked above them. This two man team will really struggle when one of the big two are struggling.
12. Reedsburg (1/2)- Tyler Mazur is a really good player that can carry this team and has a very good sidekick in Evan VanCleave. I question they offense they run but, with these two great athletes they should be fine against the average teams in the state but, will struggle against top teams in their conference and division.
13. Portage (1)- A very similar team to Madison Edgewood but, with out the star that Edgewood has. Play a very good zone defense which will keep them in games and have a pretty solid point guard in Kevin Hurd who can run the offense and score.
14. Eau Claire Memorial (2)- Really don't have the athletic ability to play with the Madison teams and lack the go to player to carry them. In the Big Rivers conference they will probably do alright though.
15. Sauk Praire (1)- A team that is ranked only because I have only seen 10 teams play so far this year. A team that really doesn't have a star player to go to and doesn't have many athletes on the team. This team really is a scrappy team though and will make games ugly and really make their opponents earn their wins.
Since I have now seen over 15 teams play I will now be ranking teams by each division.
Division 1
1. Janseville Craig- Tallest team I've seen this year and have the best defense.
2. Madison Lafollette- Very athletic team, that relies on strong guard play.
3. Middleton- Very balanced, disciplined team.
4. Milwaukee Bay View- Athletic team that's very young and likes to get out and run.
5. Madison West- Very athletic team that lacks discipline.
6. Madison East- One man team of Marquis Mason that lacks help.
7. Eau Claire Memorial- Ranked simply because I've only seen seven teams in D1.
Division 2
1.Madison Edgewood- Very disciplined team where everyone knows their role.
2. Wisconsin Dells- One of the best back courts in D2, have no interior help.
3. Reedsburg- Have two very good players in Mazur and VanCleave.
4. Portage- Very disciplined team, that lacks athleticism but, gives 100%.
5. Sauk Praire- Another team ranked only because I've only seen a few D2 teams.
Division 3
1. Lacrosse Aquinas- Very well coached team that takes care of the ball and can run the court or play a half court game.
2. Laconia- Kieran Weed is a stud and they have one of the best starting fives around.
3. Eau Claire Regis- Very tall team that lack the go to star like Laconia and Aquinas.
Division 4
1. Wausau Newman (1/2)- Only D4 team I've seen so they get the nod.
Every week my rankings expand a little bit more and hopefully by the end of the year I'll have at least 30 teams under my belt and at least five teams in each division and hopefully even 10 per division.
Rankings
1. Janesville Craig (2)- Their height and defense give Craig an advantage over every team that they play. The have four legit stars in Lucas Burns, Cooper Cullen, Jojo Pregont, and Kyle Goike. This team prefers to play a slow tempo and take their time on offense but, can just as easily play an uptempo game.
2. Madison Lafollette (2)- Really showed me something the way they handled Madison East even with their star Cashton Craig being a non-factor. Lafollette gets the edge over Bay View because they did beat them and have the experience edge. DJ Fuller appears ready to become the #2 scoring option for Lafollette and Darnell Small and Deonte Thompson have provided a low post presence that I believed they lacked.
3. Middleton (1)- Giving Middleton the edge over Bay View because they did beat them even though I feel that Bay View would win the second time around. They are a very disciplined team where everyone knows there role and does their fair share. They don't have that go to guy but, that may be an advantage so that if one player is struggling the entire team isn't struggling.
4. Milwaukee Bay View (2)- Very athletic team, that is also very young. Johnnie Lacy is one of the top players in the country and this team will only get better as the year goes on. They will be able to provide pressure, forcing teams to turn the ball over and allowing for easy baskets.
5. Lacrosse Aquinas (1)- Team that works very very well together. Can really push the tempo but, are just as affective in the half court set. The have a couple glue guys in Lucas Morrissey and Zach Rickaway along with Jimmy Whitehead who is really becoming the star of this team.
6. Laconia (1)- Have a very good starting five that is probably as good as anyone in the state. Kieran Weed is a real stud that can score from anywhere on the court. Their only down fall is their lack of bench depth.
7. Madison Edgewood (1)- Very disciplined team that's very patient on the offensive end and really plays good defense. All five players on the court really attack the glass on offense and defense. Every player on the team seems to know their roll and excepts it.
8. Madison West (2)- This team is much better then I previously thought. They are an extremely athletic team that can score in a hurry. If they keep the ball in point guard Michael Horton's hands they can beat anyone, along with remaining patience and not becoming selfish or flustered when they get down.
9. Eau Claire Regis (1)- Tall team that is another very balanced team. Like Middleton don't have a real go to player which works to their favor. In division three this team is easily a top 10 team.
10. Madison East (2)- This is the because this is the biggest one man team I have seen in awhile. Marquis Mason is a great player but, right now he doesn't have any help. If Mason has a big game then East can play with anyone but, if he doesn't score East has no chance against anyone. Right now the teams I have behind lack a inside presence and Mason would probably torch them.
11. Wisconsin Dells (2)- If East is a one man team, then Wisconsin Dells is the biggest two man team I've seen. Jade Royston and Ryan Wenkman are two very good players but, there really isn't much else there. As of right now I don't think Dells could beat any of the teams ranked above them. This two man team will really struggle when one of the big two are struggling.
12. Reedsburg (1/2)- Tyler Mazur is a really good player that can carry this team and has a very good sidekick in Evan VanCleave. I question they offense they run but, with these two great athletes they should be fine against the average teams in the state but, will struggle against top teams in their conference and division.
13. Portage (1)- A very similar team to Madison Edgewood but, with out the star that Edgewood has. Play a very good zone defense which will keep them in games and have a pretty solid point guard in Kevin Hurd who can run the offense and score.
14. Eau Claire Memorial (2)- Really don't have the athletic ability to play with the Madison teams and lack the go to player to carry them. In the Big Rivers conference they will probably do alright though.
15. Sauk Praire (1)- A team that is ranked only because I have only seen 10 teams play so far this year. A team that really doesn't have a star player to go to and doesn't have many athletes on the team. This team really is a scrappy team though and will make games ugly and really make their opponents earn their wins.
Since I have now seen over 15 teams play I will now be ranking teams by each division.
Division 1
1. Janseville Craig- Tallest team I've seen this year and have the best defense.
2. Madison Lafollette- Very athletic team, that relies on strong guard play.
3. Middleton- Very balanced, disciplined team.
4. Milwaukee Bay View- Athletic team that's very young and likes to get out and run.
5. Madison West- Very athletic team that lacks discipline.
6. Madison East- One man team of Marquis Mason that lacks help.
7. Eau Claire Memorial- Ranked simply because I've only seen seven teams in D1.
Division 2
1.Madison Edgewood- Very disciplined team where everyone knows their role.
2. Wisconsin Dells- One of the best back courts in D2, have no interior help.
3. Reedsburg- Have two very good players in Mazur and VanCleave.
4. Portage- Very disciplined team, that lacks athleticism but, gives 100%.
5. Sauk Praire- Another team ranked only because I've only seen a few D2 teams.
Division 3
1. Lacrosse Aquinas- Very well coached team that takes care of the ball and can run the court or play a half court game.
2. Laconia- Kieran Weed is a stud and they have one of the best starting fives around.
3. Eau Claire Regis- Very tall team that lack the go to star like Laconia and Aquinas.
Division 4
1. Wausau Newman (1/2)- Only D4 team I've seen so they get the nod.
Every week my rankings expand a little bit more and hopefully by the end of the year I'll have at least 30 teams under my belt and at least five teams in each division and hopefully even 10 per division.
Saturday, December 29, 2007
Wisconsin Dells Tournament
Reedsburg over Wausau Newman 52-42
Really only caught the second half of this game so I don't have a whole lot to report about. Reedsburg was the far superior team in this one and were able to extend the lead to about 20 in the third quarter. Newman was able to make the game respectable when Reedsburg cleared the bench and Newman was still playing their regulars and were able to drop a few three pointers while Reedsburg was turning the ball over on every possession.
For Reedsburg two players really stood out. 6'4 junior Tyler Mazur could score at will in this game. Mazur is big enough to go inside and score and has the ability to get his shot off very quickly and knock down the three point shot. Evan VanCleave a lighting quick guard at 6'0 had the ability to drive past any of the Newman defenders. Newman did not have a player that could stay with VanCleave as he was able to penetrate for the layup or pull up for the mid range jumper. This kid looks like he never gets tired. Other players that looked very good for Reedsburg were Nick Baur who was very strong with the ball in the post and is also a very good defender and Lucas Farber who handles the ball very well and does a good job of running the offense and setting the tempo.
Not much to say for Newman as they never were really in the game when I was there. The only player that stood out was 5'9 junior Anthony Fisher who has a very nice shot from the outside and was key in making this game look somewhat close.
Eau Claire Regis over Wisconsin Dells 43-38
In a game that was really expected to be a good game, between a top 10 D2 team and top 10 D3 team and two teams that were at state last year, really wasn't as pretty as most people would of thought. This was a very physical ugly game that was full of turnovers and that was poorly officiated in my personal opinion. This was a very intense game that the refs let get out of hand at times and consisted of two technical fouls in the game and could of been a couple more called. The game was kept low scoring by a few factors. The first one was just the overall poor play by both teams as both teams shot a low percentage and turned the ball over often. Second factor was that it seemed at the end of every quarter it seem Regis had the ball and would hold it for about 1:30 minutes and then would usually turn it over with about 5 seconds left. The final factor was the Regis zone defense which the Dells struggled to figure out which led to the Chiefs being very patient on offense.
Wisconsin Dells really struggled offensively in this game. Dells couldn't figure out how to get inside the Regis zone which led to them shooting quite a few three points and the three point shot was not falling. Senior guard Ryan Wenkman the second half of the Dells two man team could not by a basket as he missed a couple layups early in the game and finished with only four points. Another factor that may of played into it was the absence of 6'9 sophomore Nate Gibson, who I later learned is currently in Germany, who may of helped with the inside scoring and rebounding. Couple highlights of the game were Jade Royston keeping up his scoring despite not hitting a three point shot. Royston was able to score a good bulk of his points from the free throw line and then late in the game was able to find the opening at the free throw line in the zone and get inside and score. One thing I really liked about this game was the play of 6'3 senior Nathan Miller, who has been battling injuries since he began playing varsity. I believe this was only his second game back and he really had a good game. I always thought Miller could be a good player if he could just be healthy, which has been a rarity for him. Miller looked very confidence in this game as he was able to penetrate inside and score and hit a couple of three point shots, as he finished second in scoring for the Dells with 12 points.
I'm assuming that Eau Claire Regis also had a bad game because from what I've heard of them they are a pretty good team and they just didn't look to great tonight. Despite their poor play they still were able to pull out the W, which is the sign of a top team, when the can win when their playing poorly. Nick Bowe looked like he may be a star in the making as he seemed to score with ease from inside and outside when he wasn't sidelined with foul trouble. Bowe is a very aggressive 6'4 junior forward who can knock down the three point shot and has the leaping ability to go inside and score. 6'6 senior Mike Nezworski was also another impressive player who did a good job of running the point at times and have the ability to score inside despite really getting roughed up in this game and finding himself on the ground a good portion of the time. Jack Eaton 5'10 sophomore guard also deserves a little loving in this game as he knocked down a big three pointer in the first half and hit two free throws that put the game away.
Box Score
Wisconsin Dells 38- Royston 15 Miller 12 Wenkman 4 Ethan Loofboro 3 Ryan Field 2 Alex Buesing 2 Laddie Lucke 0 Lucas Shwartzer 0
Regis 43- Nezworski 13 Bowe 12 Eaton 7 Kurt Roubal 6 Zac Berry 4 Vincent Phillips 0 Marc Stantolin 0
Really only caught the second half of this game so I don't have a whole lot to report about. Reedsburg was the far superior team in this one and were able to extend the lead to about 20 in the third quarter. Newman was able to make the game respectable when Reedsburg cleared the bench and Newman was still playing their regulars and were able to drop a few three pointers while Reedsburg was turning the ball over on every possession.
For Reedsburg two players really stood out. 6'4 junior Tyler Mazur could score at will in this game. Mazur is big enough to go inside and score and has the ability to get his shot off very quickly and knock down the three point shot. Evan VanCleave a lighting quick guard at 6'0 had the ability to drive past any of the Newman defenders. Newman did not have a player that could stay with VanCleave as he was able to penetrate for the layup or pull up for the mid range jumper. This kid looks like he never gets tired. Other players that looked very good for Reedsburg were Nick Baur who was very strong with the ball in the post and is also a very good defender and Lucas Farber who handles the ball very well and does a good job of running the offense and setting the tempo.
Not much to say for Newman as they never were really in the game when I was there. The only player that stood out was 5'9 junior Anthony Fisher who has a very nice shot from the outside and was key in making this game look somewhat close.
Eau Claire Regis over Wisconsin Dells 43-38
In a game that was really expected to be a good game, between a top 10 D2 team and top 10 D3 team and two teams that were at state last year, really wasn't as pretty as most people would of thought. This was a very physical ugly game that was full of turnovers and that was poorly officiated in my personal opinion. This was a very intense game that the refs let get out of hand at times and consisted of two technical fouls in the game and could of been a couple more called. The game was kept low scoring by a few factors. The first one was just the overall poor play by both teams as both teams shot a low percentage and turned the ball over often. Second factor was that it seemed at the end of every quarter it seem Regis had the ball and would hold it for about 1:30 minutes and then would usually turn it over with about 5 seconds left. The final factor was the Regis zone defense which the Dells struggled to figure out which led to the Chiefs being very patient on offense.
Wisconsin Dells really struggled offensively in this game. Dells couldn't figure out how to get inside the Regis zone which led to them shooting quite a few three points and the three point shot was not falling. Senior guard Ryan Wenkman the second half of the Dells two man team could not by a basket as he missed a couple layups early in the game and finished with only four points. Another factor that may of played into it was the absence of 6'9 sophomore Nate Gibson, who I later learned is currently in Germany, who may of helped with the inside scoring and rebounding. Couple highlights of the game were Jade Royston keeping up his scoring despite not hitting a three point shot. Royston was able to score a good bulk of his points from the free throw line and then late in the game was able to find the opening at the free throw line in the zone and get inside and score. One thing I really liked about this game was the play of 6'3 senior Nathan Miller, who has been battling injuries since he began playing varsity. I believe this was only his second game back and he really had a good game. I always thought Miller could be a good player if he could just be healthy, which has been a rarity for him. Miller looked very confidence in this game as he was able to penetrate inside and score and hit a couple of three point shots, as he finished second in scoring for the Dells with 12 points.
I'm assuming that Eau Claire Regis also had a bad game because from what I've heard of them they are a pretty good team and they just didn't look to great tonight. Despite their poor play they still were able to pull out the W, which is the sign of a top team, when the can win when their playing poorly. Nick Bowe looked like he may be a star in the making as he seemed to score with ease from inside and outside when he wasn't sidelined with foul trouble. Bowe is a very aggressive 6'4 junior forward who can knock down the three point shot and has the leaping ability to go inside and score. 6'6 senior Mike Nezworski was also another impressive player who did a good job of running the point at times and have the ability to score inside despite really getting roughed up in this game and finding himself on the ground a good portion of the time. Jack Eaton 5'10 sophomore guard also deserves a little loving in this game as he knocked down a big three pointer in the first half and hit two free throws that put the game away.
Box Score
Wisconsin Dells 38- Royston 15 Miller 12 Wenkman 4 Ethan Loofboro 3 Ryan Field 2 Alex Buesing 2 Laddie Lucke 0 Lucas Shwartzer 0
Regis 43- Nezworski 13 Bowe 12 Eaton 7 Kurt Roubal 6 Zac Berry 4 Vincent Phillips 0 Marc Stantolin 0
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