The Hall notches their first win in a big way.January 20
DePaul (0-6) v. South Florida (2-4)
61-70 F
This game was pretty tight all the way through, with USF only having a five point lead at the half. DePaul went on a 12-3 run to start the second half, but South Florida took the lead back with around seven minutes remaining and they would hold on to take the game. DePaul’s star, Dar Tucker, had 19 points and five rebounds, but that was nothing as USF’s Dominique Jones had 26 points and ten rebounds. USF simply out shot DePaul, but not by much.
January 21
#21 Villanova (2-3) v. #3 Connecticut (6-1) (at the XL Center in Hartford, CT)
83-89 F
This was a fun match up, as Connecticut and Villanova always have good games. This game was tied at the half, but UConn pulled off the six point victory. Villanova put up quite an effort with five players in double figures. Villanova’s Scottie Reynolds had 14 points and five assists, while Dwayne Anderson had 15 points and eight rebounds. Connecticut’s AJ Price had a ridiculous night though with 29 points, five rebounds, and five assists. He hit ten of 13, and four of six from downtown. Jeff Adrien also contributed 12 points and 14 rebounds in a big Connecticut win that was exciting until the end.
Louisville (5-0) v. Rutgers (0-6)
78-59 F
This was not even close to being a game. L’ville was up by 20 at the half on the back of Terrence Williams who had a game high 23 points, as well as 11 rebounds. Rutgers’ leading scorer was Mike Rosario who scored 21 points. The story of this game boils down to the Cardinals shooting 59.2% from the floor, while lowly Rutgers could only manage 38.6%. Hence, Rutgers still has not won a Big East game.
January 22
West Virginia (3-2) v. #14 Georgetown (3-3)
75-58 F
Georgetown suffered from a four minute scoring drought near the end of the first half. They also had their worst shooting performance of the season, only making 39.2% from the floor. That means that the Mountaineers were never in danger of losing this one in the second half. They made smart shots and expanded their lead. The ‘Eers leading scorer was Da'Sean Butler with 27 points and eight rebounds. Chris Wright led for the Hoyas with 13 points. Either way, Georgetown loses a big one at home at the hand of Huggins’ squad.
Providence (5-2) v. Seton Hall (0-6)
98-93 F/OT
This one went into bonus basketball. Providence got up in the first half, but then had a three minute scoring drought near the end of it. It was back in forth all second half ending in one last possession for the Hall in which they just could not drive on the Friars. Jeremy Hazell let the Hall with 30 points, hitting seven three pointers. Five, almost six, Friars were in double digits in scoring, led by Jeff Xavier with 20 points. Stat of the game; Providence took 42 free throws and made 31. Christ that is a lot.
Cincinnati (3-4) v. St. John’s (1-5) (at Carnesecca Arena in Jamaica, NY)
71-60 F
St. John’s had an 11 point lead at the half, resulting from a two minute drought. Then St. John’s decided to not score baskets. They only scored 21 points in the second half, while Cincy scored 43. This was the textbook definition of half time adjustments as Cincy came out firing. St. John’s only scored nine points in the last 13 minutes. Paris Horne scored 20 for the Red Storm, while Deonta Vaughn had 23 for Cincy. The stars did their jobs, but St. John’s fell flat in the second half.
January 24
#3 Connecticut (7-1) v. #19 Notre Dame (3-4)
69-61 F
This was the biggest weekend match up. Notre Dame had won 45 times out of the last 45 games in the Joyce Center. After Saturday, that streak was snapped as UConn managed to outshoot Notre Dame 44.7% to 32.9%. Luke Harangody had a nice 24 points shooting fade away jumpers right over Thabeet. He only scored nine points and 11 rebounds. UConn chucked up a lot of three pointers that missed, only going six of 18, but they had a critical stretch along with a 13 to one run in the latter part of the second half to secure the Huskies victory. Jerome Dyson led UConn with 15 points and nine rebounds.
#21 Villanova (3-3) v. South Florida (2-5)
70-61 F
Late game scoring droughts are the theme of this week, as Villanova failed to score for around a three minute stretch late in the game and USF closed this already close game. But Villanova was clutch down the stretch and made their free throws. Dante Cunningham let the Wildcats with 14 points and eight rebounds, while USF’s Augustus Gilchrist led all scorers with 18 points and seven rebounds. ‘Nova shot 44%, while USF only managed 35.2% from the floor.
DePaul (0-7) v. #10 Marquette (6-0)
70-79 F
After about four and a half minutes in the first half Marquette took the lead and did not give it back. They led 48 to 34 at the half, and while they only finished up by nine, they were clearly the better team on the floor. Marquette led as much as 15, but DePaul played tough in the second half to lost only by nine. Jerel McNeal led with 21 points and had six steals for Marquette, while Dar Tucker had 18 points for DePaul.
Rutgers (0-7) v. St. John’s (2-5) (at Carnesecca Arena in Jamaica, NY)
59-70 F
St. John’s took the lead three minutes in and Rutgers battled back to close it to three in the last few minutes of the game. However, Rutgers failed to score within about the last three minutes and therefore had no chance to close the game. Paris Horne had 27 points for St. John’s, going 12 of 13 from the floor. Mike Rosario led for Rutgers with 16 points and five steals. Rutgers remains completely in the Big East.
January 25
#4 Pittsburgh (6-1) v. West Virginia (3-3)
79-67 F
This game was back and forth until 15:11 remaining in the second half when Pittsburgh took a lead with a pair of Sam Young free throws and flew to the finish. Four Pitt players had 11 points or more, with Sam Young earning 22. Da'Sean Butler had 21 points and six rebounds, but with WVU only shooting 41.1% to Pitt’s 53.6%, Pitt runs away with this one in the second half.
#14 Georgetown (3-4) v. Seton Hall (1-6)
60-65 F
WOOOOW. Seton Hall picks up their first win a HUGE upset of #14 Georgetown in New Jersey. This is the first win against a ranked opponent for Bobby Gonzalez. This game was tight all the way through but Georgetown faltered in shooting down the stretch, and the Hall players played smart basketball and got good shots. Greg Monroe had 17 for the Hoyas, but Hall’s Jeremy Hazell had 23 points and seven rebounds to lead Seton Hall to get their first Big East win against a big time team.
#12 Louisville (6-0) v. #8 Syracuse (5-3)
67-57 F
My postgame reactions here.
DePaul (0-6) v. South Florida (2-4)
61-70 F
This game was pretty tight all the way through, with USF only having a five point lead at the half. DePaul went on a 12-3 run to start the second half, but South Florida took the lead back with around seven minutes remaining and they would hold on to take the game. DePaul’s star, Dar Tucker, had 19 points and five rebounds, but that was nothing as USF’s Dominique Jones had 26 points and ten rebounds. USF simply out shot DePaul, but not by much.
January 21
#21 Villanova (2-3) v. #3 Connecticut (6-1) (at the XL Center in Hartford, CT)
83-89 F
This was a fun match up, as Connecticut and Villanova always have good games. This game was tied at the half, but UConn pulled off the six point victory. Villanova put up quite an effort with five players in double figures. Villanova’s Scottie Reynolds had 14 points and five assists, while Dwayne Anderson had 15 points and eight rebounds. Connecticut’s AJ Price had a ridiculous night though with 29 points, five rebounds, and five assists. He hit ten of 13, and four of six from downtown. Jeff Adrien also contributed 12 points and 14 rebounds in a big Connecticut win that was exciting until the end.
Louisville (5-0) v. Rutgers (0-6)
78-59 F
This was not even close to being a game. L’ville was up by 20 at the half on the back of Terrence Williams who had a game high 23 points, as well as 11 rebounds. Rutgers’ leading scorer was Mike Rosario who scored 21 points. The story of this game boils down to the Cardinals shooting 59.2% from the floor, while lowly Rutgers could only manage 38.6%. Hence, Rutgers still has not won a Big East game.
January 22
West Virginia (3-2) v. #14 Georgetown (3-3)
75-58 F
Georgetown suffered from a four minute scoring drought near the end of the first half. They also had their worst shooting performance of the season, only making 39.2% from the floor. That means that the Mountaineers were never in danger of losing this one in the second half. They made smart shots and expanded their lead. The ‘Eers leading scorer was Da'Sean Butler with 27 points and eight rebounds. Chris Wright led for the Hoyas with 13 points. Either way, Georgetown loses a big one at home at the hand of Huggins’ squad.
Providence (5-2) v. Seton Hall (0-6)
98-93 F/OT
This one went into bonus basketball. Providence got up in the first half, but then had a three minute scoring drought near the end of it. It was back in forth all second half ending in one last possession for the Hall in which they just could not drive on the Friars. Jeremy Hazell let the Hall with 30 points, hitting seven three pointers. Five, almost six, Friars were in double digits in scoring, led by Jeff Xavier with 20 points. Stat of the game; Providence took 42 free throws and made 31. Christ that is a lot.
Cincinnati (3-4) v. St. John’s (1-5) (at Carnesecca Arena in Jamaica, NY)
71-60 F
St. John’s had an 11 point lead at the half, resulting from a two minute drought. Then St. John’s decided to not score baskets. They only scored 21 points in the second half, while Cincy scored 43. This was the textbook definition of half time adjustments as Cincy came out firing. St. John’s only scored nine points in the last 13 minutes. Paris Horne scored 20 for the Red Storm, while Deonta Vaughn had 23 for Cincy. The stars did their jobs, but St. John’s fell flat in the second half.
January 24
#3 Connecticut (7-1) v. #19 Notre Dame (3-4)
69-61 F
This was the biggest weekend match up. Notre Dame had won 45 times out of the last 45 games in the Joyce Center. After Saturday, that streak was snapped as UConn managed to outshoot Notre Dame 44.7% to 32.9%. Luke Harangody had a nice 24 points shooting fade away jumpers right over Thabeet. He only scored nine points and 11 rebounds. UConn chucked up a lot of three pointers that missed, only going six of 18, but they had a critical stretch along with a 13 to one run in the latter part of the second half to secure the Huskies victory. Jerome Dyson led UConn with 15 points and nine rebounds.
#21 Villanova (3-3) v. South Florida (2-5)
70-61 F
Late game scoring droughts are the theme of this week, as Villanova failed to score for around a three minute stretch late in the game and USF closed this already close game. But Villanova was clutch down the stretch and made their free throws. Dante Cunningham let the Wildcats with 14 points and eight rebounds, while USF’s Augustus Gilchrist led all scorers with 18 points and seven rebounds. ‘Nova shot 44%, while USF only managed 35.2% from the floor.
DePaul (0-7) v. #10 Marquette (6-0)
70-79 F
After about four and a half minutes in the first half Marquette took the lead and did not give it back. They led 48 to 34 at the half, and while they only finished up by nine, they were clearly the better team on the floor. Marquette led as much as 15, but DePaul played tough in the second half to lost only by nine. Jerel McNeal led with 21 points and had six steals for Marquette, while Dar Tucker had 18 points for DePaul.
Rutgers (0-7) v. St. John’s (2-5) (at Carnesecca Arena in Jamaica, NY)
59-70 F
St. John’s took the lead three minutes in and Rutgers battled back to close it to three in the last few minutes of the game. However, Rutgers failed to score within about the last three minutes and therefore had no chance to close the game. Paris Horne had 27 points for St. John’s, going 12 of 13 from the floor. Mike Rosario led for Rutgers with 16 points and five steals. Rutgers remains completely in the Big East.
January 25
#4 Pittsburgh (6-1) v. West Virginia (3-3)
79-67 F
This game was back and forth until 15:11 remaining in the second half when Pittsburgh took a lead with a pair of Sam Young free throws and flew to the finish. Four Pitt players had 11 points or more, with Sam Young earning 22. Da'Sean Butler had 21 points and six rebounds, but with WVU only shooting 41.1% to Pitt’s 53.6%, Pitt runs away with this one in the second half.
#14 Georgetown (3-4) v. Seton Hall (1-6)
60-65 F
WOOOOW. Seton Hall picks up their first win a HUGE upset of #14 Georgetown in New Jersey. This is the first win against a ranked opponent for Bobby Gonzalez. This game was tight all the way through but Georgetown faltered in shooting down the stretch, and the Hall players played smart basketball and got good shots. Greg Monroe had 17 for the Hoyas, but Hall’s Jeremy Hazell had 23 points and seven rebounds to lead Seton Hall to get their first Big East win against a big time team.
#12 Louisville (6-0) v. #8 Syracuse (5-3)
67-57 F
My postgame reactions here.
January 26
#8 Marquette (7-0) v. #22 Notre Dame (3-5)
71-64 F
Now that the flood gates are open, apparently everyone can win at South Bend. But to be honest, Marquette is a very good team. Notre Dame only scored three points in the last 2:15, which pretty much doomed them though. Luke Harangody contributed a whopping 29 points and 17 rebounds, but Marquette’s Jerel McNeal had 27 points. Three other Marquette players had 13 points or more as well. Marquette also limited Notre Dame to 36.4% from the floor, while they shot 43.1%. Marquette was just too good for Notre Dame at home.
Weekly Awards
Team of the week: Connecticut (Honorable mention to Marquette)
Player of the Week: Jerel McNeal
Best Game of the Week: January 24th – Connecticut v. Notre Dame
Worst Game of the Week: January 21st – Louisville v. Rutgers
Kudos of the Week: Seton Hall for getting their first Big East win in beating #14 Georgetown at home.
Shame of the Week: St. John’s for giving up an 11 point half time lead to let Cincinnati win on the road.
Editor’s Note: The Big East Report is a recap and summary of the week that was in the Big East. It runs every Tuesday or Wednesday right here at Orange::44. Got an idea you want seen on the Big East Report? Send an e-mail along to syracuseorange44@gmail.com.
#8 Marquette (7-0) v. #22 Notre Dame (3-5)
71-64 F
Now that the flood gates are open, apparently everyone can win at South Bend. But to be honest, Marquette is a very good team. Notre Dame only scored three points in the last 2:15, which pretty much doomed them though. Luke Harangody contributed a whopping 29 points and 17 rebounds, but Marquette’s Jerel McNeal had 27 points. Three other Marquette players had 13 points or more as well. Marquette also limited Notre Dame to 36.4% from the floor, while they shot 43.1%. Marquette was just too good for Notre Dame at home.
Weekly Awards
Team of the week: Connecticut (Honorable mention to Marquette)
Player of the Week: Jerel McNeal
Best Game of the Week: January 24th – Connecticut v. Notre Dame
Worst Game of the Week: January 21st – Louisville v. Rutgers
Kudos of the Week: Seton Hall for getting their first Big East win in beating #14 Georgetown at home.
Shame of the Week: St. John’s for giving up an 11 point half time lead to let Cincinnati win on the road.
Editor’s Note: The Big East Report is a recap and summary of the week that was in the Big East. It runs every Tuesday or Wednesday right here at Orange::44. Got an idea you want seen on the Big East Report? Send an e-mail along to syracuseorange44@gmail.com.
Labels: Basketball, Big East, Big East Report
Number One goes down.This was a huge week in the Big East. There were some big games and some exciting moments.
January 14
South Florida (1-3) v. #1 Pittsburgh (4-0)
62-75 F
This game actually was moderately close for it being Pittsburgh and South Florida. Pitt pulled away in the second half though as Tyrell Biggs had 16 points and DeJuan Blair had 13 points and 18 rebounds. Levance Fields also contributed with 13 assists. South Florida’s Dominique Jones and Augustus Gilchrist each had 22 points a piece, but it was not enough to overtake Pitt’s dominating ball skills.
Rutgers (0-5) v. Cincinnati (1-3)
59-71 F
Poor Rutgers. Cincinnati had about an eight minute scoring drought in the first half, in which Rutgers led 36 to 29 at the break. But Cincinnati would come back and take the lead with 15:23 remaining in the game and they never gave it back. Cincinnati outscored the Scarlet Knights 42 to 23 in the second half. Cincy’s Deonta Vaughn led the way in scoring with 24 points, as well as earning eight rebounds in 37 minutes of play. Rutgers had four players in double digits scoring, and shot the ball better than Cincinnati overall, but it was not enough for Rutgers to get a Big East win. The Bearcats get their first.
#8 Syracuse (4-1) v. #12 Georgetown (3-2)
74-88 F
My postgame reactions here.
January 15
#4 Connecticut (4-1) v. St. John’s (1-3) (at Madison Square Garden in New York, NY)
67-55 F
UConn led by just one point at the half. It was close until about 16 minutes remaining and that is when Connecticut pulled away. Paris Horne of St. John’s did his part by leading all scorers with 24 points on nine of 13 shooting. Kemba Walker led the Huskies with 21 points, while Hasheem Thabeet had ten points, eight rebounds and five blocks. Jeff Adrien had 17 points and 11 rebounds. This game was closer than UConn would have liked though. St. John’s had a real shot here.
January 17
#1 Pittsburgh (4-1) v. #20 Louisville (4-0)
63-69 F
This was the showcase game of the week. This was a very tight game until about three minutes to go. I thought when Sam Young had a huge windmill dunk as the game winded down it was over. But upon the back of some clutch shooting from Louisville, they were able to overtake Pitt and win the game. Terrence Williams led Louisville’s scorers with 20 points, seven rebounds, and four assists. Jermaine Dixon was the Panthers leading scorer with 19 points. DeJuan Blair was held to nine points but he did have ten rebounds. This was a very entertaining game and the #1 team in the nation ended their undefeated streak, as well as their stint at the top of the poll.
#14 Marquette (5-0) v. Providence (3-2)
91-82 F
Providence led this game until about 3:27 remaining when Marquette got up and finished ahead of the Friars. Marquette’s Lazar Hayward and Jerel McNeal finished with 25 points a piece, and Wesley Matthews had 22 points. For Providence, Marshon Brooks led scoring off the bench with 21 points. The story of this game however, is when Providence’s Jeff Xavier took an elbow late in the game. No foul was called on the play. The video seems to indicate it was a totally incidental elbow as he was defending the ball. During another players foul shots, Xavier’s brother Jonathan climbed over the bench and on the court, giving some words to the referee about how he thought there should have been a foul. He of course was escorted out and I assume arrested for trespass. Bizarre scene in the Big East as Marquette continues to roll along in the conference.
Cincinnati (2-3) v. DePaul (0-5)
59-55 F
It seems Cincinnati suffers from extreme scoreless droughts. This time it happened down the stretch and allowed DePaul to close a 15 point game down to two points. DePaul just could not close the game and win their first Big East game. Deonta Vaughn again led the Bearcats with 18 points, while Will Walker finished with 17 points for DePaul. This was a squeaker, but still not that great of a game in this conference.
South Florida (1-4) v. West Virginia (2-2)
59-62 F
South Florida playing tough on the road. Interesting. WVU led by 14 at the half, but USF outscored West Virginia 39 to 28, almost pulling the game out, but they could not. The Mountaineers were able to hit enough free throws down the stretch so that Dominique Jones couldn’t spoil their party. He finished with 35 points and eight rebounds however. WVU was led by Da'Sean Butler, who had 27 points of his own.
#13 Notre Dame (3-3) v. #8 Syracuse (5-1)
74-93 F
My postgame reactions here.
January 18
Seton Hall (0-5) v. #4 Connecticut (5-1) (at the XL Center in Hartford, CT)
61-76 F
UConn took the lead just after the 15 minute mark in the first half and would expand the differential after that. The led 46 to 22 at the half and maintained it by their stars making baskets and the big men getting rebounds. UConn’s A.J. Price had 23 points, Hasheem Thabeet had 15 points and 17 rebounds, and Jeff Adrien had 13 points and 12 rebounds. That is quite a lot of fire power. Jeremy Hazell had 20 points for The Hall, but with only two players in double figures they just could not keep up with the U of Conn.
St. John’s (1-4) v. #22 Villanova (2-2) (at The Pavilion in Villanova, PA)
57-76 F
Villanova never trailed in this game. St. John’s was outscored at the half 44 to 27. Villanova shot 58.8% from the floor, while St. John’s only made 38.6% of their shots. With that kind of performing it is no mystery what the outcome would be. Four Villanova players attained double figures, with Dante Cunningham leading with 17 points. D.J. Kennedy had 18 points for St. John’s, but poor offense doomed St. John’s from the start.
January 19
Cincinnati (2-4) v. Providence (4-2)
63-72 F
Providence led by a slim three point at the half. Then Cincinnati had the game tied at 38 with 14:37 remaining in the second half. But Providence then pulled away and finished with a nine point finish. Mike Williams finished with 21 points for Cincy. Providence had four scorers in double digits, led by Randall Hanke with 15 points. Providence defended their home despite only making three of 20 three point attempts.
#8 Syracuse (5-2) v. #4 Pittsburgh (5-1)
60-78 F
My postgame reactions here.
Weekly Awards
Team of the week: Louisville
Player of the Week: Deonta Vaughn
Best Game of the Week: January 17th – Pittsburgh v. Louisville
Worst Game of the Week: January 17th – Cincinnati v. DePaul
Kudos of the Week: Cincinnati for picking up their first two conference wins.
January 14
South Florida (1-3) v. #1 Pittsburgh (4-0)
62-75 F
This game actually was moderately close for it being Pittsburgh and South Florida. Pitt pulled away in the second half though as Tyrell Biggs had 16 points and DeJuan Blair had 13 points and 18 rebounds. Levance Fields also contributed with 13 assists. South Florida’s Dominique Jones and Augustus Gilchrist each had 22 points a piece, but it was not enough to overtake Pitt’s dominating ball skills.
Rutgers (0-5) v. Cincinnati (1-3)
59-71 F
Poor Rutgers. Cincinnati had about an eight minute scoring drought in the first half, in which Rutgers led 36 to 29 at the break. But Cincinnati would come back and take the lead with 15:23 remaining in the game and they never gave it back. Cincinnati outscored the Scarlet Knights 42 to 23 in the second half. Cincy’s Deonta Vaughn led the way in scoring with 24 points, as well as earning eight rebounds in 37 minutes of play. Rutgers had four players in double digits scoring, and shot the ball better than Cincinnati overall, but it was not enough for Rutgers to get a Big East win. The Bearcats get their first.
#8 Syracuse (4-1) v. #12 Georgetown (3-2)
74-88 F
My postgame reactions here.
January 15
#4 Connecticut (4-1) v. St. John’s (1-3) (at Madison Square Garden in New York, NY)
67-55 F
UConn led by just one point at the half. It was close until about 16 minutes remaining and that is when Connecticut pulled away. Paris Horne of St. John’s did his part by leading all scorers with 24 points on nine of 13 shooting. Kemba Walker led the Huskies with 21 points, while Hasheem Thabeet had ten points, eight rebounds and five blocks. Jeff Adrien had 17 points and 11 rebounds. This game was closer than UConn would have liked though. St. John’s had a real shot here.
January 17
#1 Pittsburgh (4-1) v. #20 Louisville (4-0)
63-69 F
This was the showcase game of the week. This was a very tight game until about three minutes to go. I thought when Sam Young had a huge windmill dunk as the game winded down it was over. But upon the back of some clutch shooting from Louisville, they were able to overtake Pitt and win the game. Terrence Williams led Louisville’s scorers with 20 points, seven rebounds, and four assists. Jermaine Dixon was the Panthers leading scorer with 19 points. DeJuan Blair was held to nine points but he did have ten rebounds. This was a very entertaining game and the #1 team in the nation ended their undefeated streak, as well as their stint at the top of the poll.
#14 Marquette (5-0) v. Providence (3-2)
91-82 F
Providence led this game until about 3:27 remaining when Marquette got up and finished ahead of the Friars. Marquette’s Lazar Hayward and Jerel McNeal finished with 25 points a piece, and Wesley Matthews had 22 points. For Providence, Marshon Brooks led scoring off the bench with 21 points. The story of this game however, is when Providence’s Jeff Xavier took an elbow late in the game. No foul was called on the play. The video seems to indicate it was a totally incidental elbow as he was defending the ball. During another players foul shots, Xavier’s brother Jonathan climbed over the bench and on the court, giving some words to the referee about how he thought there should have been a foul. He of course was escorted out and I assume arrested for trespass. Bizarre scene in the Big East as Marquette continues to roll along in the conference.
Cincinnati (2-3) v. DePaul (0-5)
59-55 F
It seems Cincinnati suffers from extreme scoreless droughts. This time it happened down the stretch and allowed DePaul to close a 15 point game down to two points. DePaul just could not close the game and win their first Big East game. Deonta Vaughn again led the Bearcats with 18 points, while Will Walker finished with 17 points for DePaul. This was a squeaker, but still not that great of a game in this conference.
South Florida (1-4) v. West Virginia (2-2)
59-62 F
South Florida playing tough on the road. Interesting. WVU led by 14 at the half, but USF outscored West Virginia 39 to 28, almost pulling the game out, but they could not. The Mountaineers were able to hit enough free throws down the stretch so that Dominique Jones couldn’t spoil their party. He finished with 35 points and eight rebounds however. WVU was led by Da'Sean Butler, who had 27 points of his own.
#13 Notre Dame (3-3) v. #8 Syracuse (5-1)
74-93 F
My postgame reactions here.
January 18
Seton Hall (0-5) v. #4 Connecticut (5-1) (at the XL Center in Hartford, CT)
61-76 F
UConn took the lead just after the 15 minute mark in the first half and would expand the differential after that. The led 46 to 22 at the half and maintained it by their stars making baskets and the big men getting rebounds. UConn’s A.J. Price had 23 points, Hasheem Thabeet had 15 points and 17 rebounds, and Jeff Adrien had 13 points and 12 rebounds. That is quite a lot of fire power. Jeremy Hazell had 20 points for The Hall, but with only two players in double figures they just could not keep up with the U of Conn.
St. John’s (1-4) v. #22 Villanova (2-2) (at The Pavilion in Villanova, PA)
57-76 F
Villanova never trailed in this game. St. John’s was outscored at the half 44 to 27. Villanova shot 58.8% from the floor, while St. John’s only made 38.6% of their shots. With that kind of performing it is no mystery what the outcome would be. Four Villanova players attained double figures, with Dante Cunningham leading with 17 points. D.J. Kennedy had 18 points for St. John’s, but poor offense doomed St. John’s from the start.
January 19
Cincinnati (2-4) v. Providence (4-2)
63-72 F
Providence led by a slim three point at the half. Then Cincinnati had the game tied at 38 with 14:37 remaining in the second half. But Providence then pulled away and finished with a nine point finish. Mike Williams finished with 21 points for Cincy. Providence had four scorers in double digits, led by Randall Hanke with 15 points. Providence defended their home despite only making three of 20 three point attempts.
#8 Syracuse (5-2) v. #4 Pittsburgh (5-1)
60-78 F
My postgame reactions here.
Weekly Awards
Team of the week: Louisville
Player of the Week: Deonta Vaughn
Best Game of the Week: January 17th – Pittsburgh v. Louisville
Worst Game of the Week: January 17th – Cincinnati v. DePaul
Kudos of the Week: Cincinnati for picking up their first two conference wins.
Shame of the Week: Tie between West Virginia for barely beating South Florida by three on their home court and DePaul for not managing to beat Cincinnati at home, losing by only four.
Labels: Basketball, Big East, Big East Report
Having the #1 team in the country is bad ass.January 6
#17 Villanova (1-1) v. Seton Hall (0-3)
89-85 F/OT
Yes, Seton Hall managed to defend its home court admirably. Jeremy Hazell hit a ridiculous banking three point basket before the end of regulation to tie the game to send them to overtime. But it was Scottie Reynolds 40 points that ruled the day. Seton Hall was outscored in overtime 13 points to nine. Seton Hall just could not hack it with the better team on the floor in the end. A for effort though.
#5 Connecticut (2-1) v. #22 West Virginia (1-1)
61-55 F
UConn’s Jeff Adrien led all scorers in the game with 17 points as UConn was the more physical team on the floor. UConn’s Stanley Robinson pulled down 15 rebounds, while Hasheem Thabeet earned 13 points and 13 rebounds. The second half proved to be WVU’s undoing as they only managed to shoot 25% from the floor. UConn outlasted West Virginia in a game that was fairly close the entire game. Connecticut had the statistics to back up the win in this case though.
January 7
#21 Louisville (1-0) v. South Florida (0-2)
71-57 F
Louisville used a big run in the middle of the first half to spur on a lead that they would not relinquish against South Florida. Earl Clark of L’ville had 22 points and nine rebounds in a day when he shot 18 baskets. Meanwhile five bench players for USF earned zero points. It is not that hard to figure out that if you do not score you will not win the game. Louisville looked good opening their Big East schedule against the only Big East team with an overall record below .500.
#15 Marquette (3-0) v. Rutgers (0-3)
81-76 F
This was the first epic and almost tragic collapse in the Big East this season. Marquette was leading by as much as 21 in the second half, but they only won by five as Rutgers clawed and scratched their way back in this game at home. Four of the five Marquette starters, led by Wesley Matthews 23 points, were in double figures. Rutgers’ Mike Rosario had 22 of his own though. But it was not enough for Rutgers to overtake the deficit that Marquette had built up.
Providence (3-0) v. Cincinnati (0-2)
87-79 F
Weyinmi Efejuku (a funny name all star) led Providence in scoring with 18, mostly because of his 11-14 performance from the free throw line. There was a balanced attack from Providence as they made 12-24 three point shots. However Cincinnati would not just go away as they cut their deficit latter part of the second half to two. But Providence eventually pulled away, leaving Cincinnati without a win.
DePaul (0-3) v. #9 Syracuse (3-0)
68-85 F
My postgame reactions here.
January 10
#21 Louisville (2-0) v. #17 Villanova (1-2)
61-60 F
Easily the weekend’s best game. Scottie Reynolds drops only 11 in this contest, but he looked great doing it with an amazing spin move into a reverse lay up, getting the And 1. Louisville had a scare in that Villanova came back to take the lead, but Villanova could not capitalize on the several chances they had to win this game, with two free throws that could have put them ahead, or then getting the possession with less than five seconds left and getting a great pass inside, only to miss a lay up and several tip ins. Louisville escaped in this game.
# 22 West Virginia (1-2) v. #15 Marquette (4-0)
53-75 F
Jerel McNeal was the all star for Marquette as he made 26 points and earned three big steals to give Marquette a huge advantage in the second half. Marquette outscored WVU 46-22 in the second half as everything was clicking for Marquette. Both McNeal and Dominic James played all 40 minutes for Marquette. De’Sean Butler had 16 for West Virginia, but it was all Marquette in the second half, at one point going on an 11-0 run.
Providence (3-1) v, #10 Georgetown (2-2)
75-82 F
Providence had a three point lead at the half and an unblemished Big East record heading into this game. But it was too much G’town in the second half, as at one point they had 13 unanswered points. It was freshman center Greg Monroe spurring the second half action as he had 13 points and eight assists. Austin Freemen led the Hoyas in scoring with 18 points. Georgetown wins their 25th straight game against an unranked opponent at home.
Seton Hall (0-4) v. #13 Notre Dame (3-1)
79-88 F
This game was close and very entertaining for the majority of the game. Eugene Harvey put in some solid heroics for Seton Hall, giving them 21 points on the road. Kyle McAlarney also had a great day giving ND 18 points in 40 minutes. But once again the show was Luke Harangody going inside and hitting long two point jumpers for the Irish. He finished with 30 points and 16 boards, giving him his 12th double-double of the season and his second career game with 30 points and 15 or more rebounds. Notre Dame pulled away in this one right around the Under 8 timeout.
#5 Connecticut (3-1) v. Cincinnati (0-3)
81-72 F
Connecticut never trailed, but the Bearcats made it interesting for most of the game. Connecticut’s players were just too much for Cincy though. Jeff Adrien earned 13 points and 12 rebounds for his 38th career double-double, the most among active players in the league. Hasheem Thabeet had only eight points, but they were mostly rim rattling dunks inside. AJ Price also contributed, making 5-8 from long range and contributing at total of 22 points. Deonta Vaughn of Cincy added 19, but the Huskies 58% shooting from the floor let UConn to stay perfect on the road.
South Florida (1-2) v. DePaul (0-4)
80-58 F
After taking the lead at the start of the game with two points, DePaul then relinquished it and never had a chance of getting it back. Mac Koshwal, the center for DePaul, had a nice game inside with 18 points. But USF’s Dominique Jones had 22 points and eight rebounds, and Chris Howard had 12 points in ten assists. The team’s 41.2% from long range helped as well. USF wins this one convincingly, despite being the only team in the Big East still below .500.
#9 Syracuse (4-0) v. Rutgers (0-4)
82-66 F
My postgame reactions here.
January 11
St. John’s (1-2) v. #1 Pittsburgh (3-0)
67-90 F
DeJuan Blair was clearly the best player on the floor in this game in Pittsburgh’s first ever game as a #1 team. He had 23 points and 15 rebounds. Jermaine Dixon had 17 for the Panthers. SJU’s DJ Kennedy had 18 points in 40 minutes of work, but Pittsburgh was just too talented for the Red Storm, as they opened up the second half with a 17-6 run. That lifted them away as they cruised to a victory, ensuring that they keep that #1 for a little while longer.
January 12
#13 Notre Dame (3-2) v. #20 Louisville (3-0)
73-87 F/OT
This was a very entertaining game until the tip of overtime. Louisville then earned its biggest margin of victory in overtime in the history of the program. Luke Harangody had 28 points and 13 rebounds, but was held scoreless in the overtime period. He looked great on the floor though, making a ton of jumpers away from the basket. Kyle McAlarney also had 19 points, with 5-6 shooting from long range. However, Terrence Williams had 24 points and Samardo Samuels had 18 for Louisville. Terrence Williams looked phenomenal in overtime with some excellent moves in the paint. Louisville wins a huge game and remains unbeaten in league play.
Weekly Awards
Team of the week: Louisville
Player of the Week: Jeff Adrien
Best Game of the Week: January 10th - Louisville v. Villanova
Worst Game of the Week: January 7th - Providence v. Cincinnati
Kudos of the Week: Seton Hall for not giving up in games and fighting until the end.
Shame of the Week: Tie between DePaul for letting South Florida, a team with an overall record below .500, beat you at home, and Luke Harangody for scoring exactly zero points in overtime for his team against Louisville.
That was the past week in the Big East. It should get much more exciting this week with lots of juicy Top 25 matches occurring. Stay tuned for all the drama and heartbreak, as well as the thrill of victory.
#17 Villanova (1-1) v. Seton Hall (0-3)
89-85 F/OT
Yes, Seton Hall managed to defend its home court admirably. Jeremy Hazell hit a ridiculous banking three point basket before the end of regulation to tie the game to send them to overtime. But it was Scottie Reynolds 40 points that ruled the day. Seton Hall was outscored in overtime 13 points to nine. Seton Hall just could not hack it with the better team on the floor in the end. A for effort though.
#5 Connecticut (2-1) v. #22 West Virginia (1-1)
61-55 F
UConn’s Jeff Adrien led all scorers in the game with 17 points as UConn was the more physical team on the floor. UConn’s Stanley Robinson pulled down 15 rebounds, while Hasheem Thabeet earned 13 points and 13 rebounds. The second half proved to be WVU’s undoing as they only managed to shoot 25% from the floor. UConn outlasted West Virginia in a game that was fairly close the entire game. Connecticut had the statistics to back up the win in this case though.
January 7
#21 Louisville (1-0) v. South Florida (0-2)
71-57 F
Louisville used a big run in the middle of the first half to spur on a lead that they would not relinquish against South Florida. Earl Clark of L’ville had 22 points and nine rebounds in a day when he shot 18 baskets. Meanwhile five bench players for USF earned zero points. It is not that hard to figure out that if you do not score you will not win the game. Louisville looked good opening their Big East schedule against the only Big East team with an overall record below .500.
#15 Marquette (3-0) v. Rutgers (0-3)
81-76 F
This was the first epic and almost tragic collapse in the Big East this season. Marquette was leading by as much as 21 in the second half, but they only won by five as Rutgers clawed and scratched their way back in this game at home. Four of the five Marquette starters, led by Wesley Matthews 23 points, were in double figures. Rutgers’ Mike Rosario had 22 of his own though. But it was not enough for Rutgers to overtake the deficit that Marquette had built up.
Providence (3-0) v. Cincinnati (0-2)
87-79 F
Weyinmi Efejuku (a funny name all star) led Providence in scoring with 18, mostly because of his 11-14 performance from the free throw line. There was a balanced attack from Providence as they made 12-24 three point shots. However Cincinnati would not just go away as they cut their deficit latter part of the second half to two. But Providence eventually pulled away, leaving Cincinnati without a win.
DePaul (0-3) v. #9 Syracuse (3-0)
68-85 F
My postgame reactions here.
January 10
#21 Louisville (2-0) v. #17 Villanova (1-2)
61-60 F
Easily the weekend’s best game. Scottie Reynolds drops only 11 in this contest, but he looked great doing it with an amazing spin move into a reverse lay up, getting the And 1. Louisville had a scare in that Villanova came back to take the lead, but Villanova could not capitalize on the several chances they had to win this game, with two free throws that could have put them ahead, or then getting the possession with less than five seconds left and getting a great pass inside, only to miss a lay up and several tip ins. Louisville escaped in this game.
# 22 West Virginia (1-2) v. #15 Marquette (4-0)
53-75 F
Jerel McNeal was the all star for Marquette as he made 26 points and earned three big steals to give Marquette a huge advantage in the second half. Marquette outscored WVU 46-22 in the second half as everything was clicking for Marquette. Both McNeal and Dominic James played all 40 minutes for Marquette. De’Sean Butler had 16 for West Virginia, but it was all Marquette in the second half, at one point going on an 11-0 run.
Providence (3-1) v, #10 Georgetown (2-2)
75-82 F
Providence had a three point lead at the half and an unblemished Big East record heading into this game. But it was too much G’town in the second half, as at one point they had 13 unanswered points. It was freshman center Greg Monroe spurring the second half action as he had 13 points and eight assists. Austin Freemen led the Hoyas in scoring with 18 points. Georgetown wins their 25th straight game against an unranked opponent at home.
Seton Hall (0-4) v. #13 Notre Dame (3-1)
79-88 F
This game was close and very entertaining for the majority of the game. Eugene Harvey put in some solid heroics for Seton Hall, giving them 21 points on the road. Kyle McAlarney also had a great day giving ND 18 points in 40 minutes. But once again the show was Luke Harangody going inside and hitting long two point jumpers for the Irish. He finished with 30 points and 16 boards, giving him his 12th double-double of the season and his second career game with 30 points and 15 or more rebounds. Notre Dame pulled away in this one right around the Under 8 timeout.
#5 Connecticut (3-1) v. Cincinnati (0-3)
81-72 F
Connecticut never trailed, but the Bearcats made it interesting for most of the game. Connecticut’s players were just too much for Cincy though. Jeff Adrien earned 13 points and 12 rebounds for his 38th career double-double, the most among active players in the league. Hasheem Thabeet had only eight points, but they were mostly rim rattling dunks inside. AJ Price also contributed, making 5-8 from long range and contributing at total of 22 points. Deonta Vaughn of Cincy added 19, but the Huskies 58% shooting from the floor let UConn to stay perfect on the road.
South Florida (1-2) v. DePaul (0-4)
80-58 F
After taking the lead at the start of the game with two points, DePaul then relinquished it and never had a chance of getting it back. Mac Koshwal, the center for DePaul, had a nice game inside with 18 points. But USF’s Dominique Jones had 22 points and eight rebounds, and Chris Howard had 12 points in ten assists. The team’s 41.2% from long range helped as well. USF wins this one convincingly, despite being the only team in the Big East still below .500.
#9 Syracuse (4-0) v. Rutgers (0-4)
82-66 F
My postgame reactions here.
January 11
St. John’s (1-2) v. #1 Pittsburgh (3-0)
67-90 F
DeJuan Blair was clearly the best player on the floor in this game in Pittsburgh’s first ever game as a #1 team. He had 23 points and 15 rebounds. Jermaine Dixon had 17 for the Panthers. SJU’s DJ Kennedy had 18 points in 40 minutes of work, but Pittsburgh was just too talented for the Red Storm, as they opened up the second half with a 17-6 run. That lifted them away as they cruised to a victory, ensuring that they keep that #1 for a little while longer.
January 12
#13 Notre Dame (3-2) v. #20 Louisville (3-0)
73-87 F/OT
This was a very entertaining game until the tip of overtime. Louisville then earned its biggest margin of victory in overtime in the history of the program. Luke Harangody had 28 points and 13 rebounds, but was held scoreless in the overtime period. He looked great on the floor though, making a ton of jumpers away from the basket. Kyle McAlarney also had 19 points, with 5-6 shooting from long range. However, Terrence Williams had 24 points and Samardo Samuels had 18 for Louisville. Terrence Williams looked phenomenal in overtime with some excellent moves in the paint. Louisville wins a huge game and remains unbeaten in league play.
Weekly Awards
Team of the week: Louisville
Player of the Week: Jeff Adrien
Best Game of the Week: January 10th - Louisville v. Villanova
Worst Game of the Week: January 7th - Providence v. Cincinnati
Kudos of the Week: Seton Hall for not giving up in games and fighting until the end.
Shame of the Week: Tie between DePaul for letting South Florida, a team with an overall record below .500, beat you at home, and Luke Harangody for scoring exactly zero points in overtime for his team against Louisville.
That was the past week in the Big East. It should get much more exciting this week with lots of juicy Top 25 matches occurring. Stay tuned for all the drama and heartbreak, as well as the thrill of victory.
Labels: Basketball, Big East, Big East Report
Welcome to the new feature here at Orange::44.The Big East Conference is the best basketball conference in the nation. This is unanimous. I know I grew up on it and have grown only to love it more over the years. I would rather watch St. John’s v. Seton Hall than UNC v. Duke. Alright, maybe that is a tad of an exaggeration but you get the idea. Therefore, I am premiering a new feature of this notebook. Every Tuesday I will take a look at the past week’s Big East Conference games, give a quick recap, talk about the teams and big players, and talk about the big picture in the Big East. The teams and their rank at the time of the game will be shown, along with their conference record after the match. TBER should appear here on a weekly basis and is a must for any Syracuse fan that just does not have too much time to keep up with Big East basketball as much as they want. This week we start with December 29th as it was the first real day of Big East play.
December 29
#8 Georgetown (1-0) v. #2 Connecticut (0-1) (at XL Arena in Hartford)
74-63 F
This was quite a first game for the Big East to showcase on a big stage. The Hoyas jumped out to an early lead on an 18-3 run and they never relinquished it. G’town’s DaJuan Summers lead all scorers with 18 points, while Hasheem Thabeet had seven rebounds, seven blocks, and only four points. It was clear in this game that UConn was not as intense or hungry as Georgetown and thus the Hoyas were rewarded with a big win on Big Monday. You have to defend your “home” court, and UConn did not even come close.
December 30
Seton Hall (0-1) v. #11 Syracuse (1-0)
76-100 F
My postgame reactions here.
December 31
#3 Pittsburgh (1-0) v. Rutgers (0-1)
78-72 F
This was Rutgers’ shot to make a statement in the Big East. They were up at the half 43-39. Both teams had pretty even night stat wise as well. But it was the more physical and lucky Pittsburgh that pulled it out and remains unbeaten. Sam Young of Pitt had 18 points, while Rutgers’ Mike Rosario had 22. Solid nights all around.
St. John’s (0-1) v. Providence (1-0)
54-75 F
St. John’s jumped out to an early 11-0 lead, but that was relinquished quickly as Providence gained the lead with 6:49 remaining in the first half and never gave it back. Three Red Storm starters were in double digits and Sean Evans earned a double-double with 16 points and ten rebounds. However, Providence had key contributions off the bench as Randall Hanke led all scorers with 17 points. Providence had the walk ons in on the home floor at the Dunk as Providence cruises to win one.
#10 Notre Dame (1-0) v. DePaul (0-1)
92-82 F
DePaul kept this respectable by only losing by ten. Good for them. Luke Harangody of ND tore it up with 26 points and 16 rebounds. F’n Kyle McAlarney had 13 points and six rebounds. Mac Koshwal for DePaul also had a big night inside with 26 points and 11 rebounds as well but it was just too much for the offense of Notre Dame as they open the season on the road with a win.
January 1
#13 Villanova (0-1) v. #25 Marquette (1-0)
72-79 F
Villanova is a talented team and hung with Marquette until a little over six minutes remaining in the game, but Jerel McNeal’s clutch shooting and free throws sealed the game for Marquette. He finished with 24 points and six rebounds. ‘Nova’s best shooter was Corey Fisher off the bench with 21 points. Scottie Reynolds had 15 points in the losing effort. Marquette in the end just shot the ball better and outlasted the Wildcats.
January 2
#11 Syracuse (2-0) v. South Florida (0-1)
59-54 F
My postgame reactions here.
January 3
#3 Pittsburgh (2-0) v. #8 Georgetown (1-1)
70-54 F
The best match up of the day, especially after Georgetown dismantled UConn, was a let down. Pittsburgh physically dominated in the game earning rebounds and having killer post play. This game snaps a 29 game home winning streak at “The Phone Booth” for Georgetown. DaJuan Summers had 22 points for Georgetown, but it was not enough as DeJuan Blair had 20 points for Pitt. The Panthers win in convincing fashion.
#10 Notre Dame (1-1) v. St. John’s (1-1) (at Carnesecca Arena in Jamaica, NY)
65-71 F
The first big upset of the year in the Big East. It was a cold night in New York for the Fighting Irish. Stingy defense from St. John’s caused ND to only make 4-17 from long range. Luke Harangody had another ridiculous day with 28 points, 14 rebounds, four steals, and four assists. But it was not enough as Notre Dame loses on the road.
West Virginia (1-0) v. Seton Hall (0-2)
92-66 F
Another dud for the boys from Jersey. However the theme in the league is players having huge nights on the losing team. The Hall’s Jeremy Hazell earned 29 points, but it was not enough as The Hall only made 23 of 52 field goals, while WVU made 32 of 60. Having more possessions and capitalizing on them is what it was all about in this game.
Rutgers (0-2) v. #2 Connecticut (1-1) (at Gampel Pavilion in Storrs, CT)
49-80 F
Not even close. The far superior Connecticut team dismantled Rutgers after playing poorly against G’town. The difference, five players for UConn had double figures in scoring, while Rutgers only had two. Rutgers shot poorly (28.8%), while UConn did not (51.9%). Hasheem Thabeet had 15 points and eight rebounds. UConn is back on the right track. Hello wake up call, it’s me Connecticut. UConn improves to 16-1 all time versus Rutgers.
DePaul (0-2) v. Providence (2-0)
54-62 F
DePaul kept it close, as they only trailed by a point with 10:20 remaining in the game. But Providence used their possessions fairly well in the last ten minutes, and DePaul failed to capitalize. Weyinmi Efejuku (who?) of Providence had 18 points, including shooting four of seven from long range. DePaul just could not convert down the stretch.
January 4
Cincinnati (0-1) v. #25 Marquette (2-0)
50-84 F
Jerel McNeal had a career shooting night from beyond the arc (7-7) to give the Bearcats no shot in this game. He finished with 26 points and six rebounds. Cincy’s poor shooting did not help either as they finish 3-19 (15.8%) from three point range and 32.7% overall from the floor. Marquette won big and Cincinnati looked bad.
January 5
#10 Georgetown (1-2) v. #13 Notre Dame (2-1)
67-73 F
Not a bad game for a Big Monday. Notre Dame extended the nation’s longest home court winning streak to 44 games. Luke Harangody had another monster game, earning 31 points on 11-19 field goals and 9-9 free throws. See Syracuse, a big man that can make free buckets. He also had 11 rebounds. Meanwhile Georgetown had trouble shooting the long ball as they only made four of 18, and thus Notre Dame was able to stay ahead with key inside play and better shooting from downtown. A fun game to watch.
December 29
#8 Georgetown (1-0) v. #2 Connecticut (0-1) (at XL Arena in Hartford)
74-63 F
This was quite a first game for the Big East to showcase on a big stage. The Hoyas jumped out to an early lead on an 18-3 run and they never relinquished it. G’town’s DaJuan Summers lead all scorers with 18 points, while Hasheem Thabeet had seven rebounds, seven blocks, and only four points. It was clear in this game that UConn was not as intense or hungry as Georgetown and thus the Hoyas were rewarded with a big win on Big Monday. You have to defend your “home” court, and UConn did not even come close.
December 30
Seton Hall (0-1) v. #11 Syracuse (1-0)
76-100 F
My postgame reactions here.
December 31
#3 Pittsburgh (1-0) v. Rutgers (0-1)
78-72 F
This was Rutgers’ shot to make a statement in the Big East. They were up at the half 43-39. Both teams had pretty even night stat wise as well. But it was the more physical and lucky Pittsburgh that pulled it out and remains unbeaten. Sam Young of Pitt had 18 points, while Rutgers’ Mike Rosario had 22. Solid nights all around.
St. John’s (0-1) v. Providence (1-0)
54-75 F
St. John’s jumped out to an early 11-0 lead, but that was relinquished quickly as Providence gained the lead with 6:49 remaining in the first half and never gave it back. Three Red Storm starters were in double digits and Sean Evans earned a double-double with 16 points and ten rebounds. However, Providence had key contributions off the bench as Randall Hanke led all scorers with 17 points. Providence had the walk ons in on the home floor at the Dunk as Providence cruises to win one.
#10 Notre Dame (1-0) v. DePaul (0-1)
92-82 F
DePaul kept this respectable by only losing by ten. Good for them. Luke Harangody of ND tore it up with 26 points and 16 rebounds. F’n Kyle McAlarney had 13 points and six rebounds. Mac Koshwal for DePaul also had a big night inside with 26 points and 11 rebounds as well but it was just too much for the offense of Notre Dame as they open the season on the road with a win.
January 1
#13 Villanova (0-1) v. #25 Marquette (1-0)
72-79 F
Villanova is a talented team and hung with Marquette until a little over six minutes remaining in the game, but Jerel McNeal’s clutch shooting and free throws sealed the game for Marquette. He finished with 24 points and six rebounds. ‘Nova’s best shooter was Corey Fisher off the bench with 21 points. Scottie Reynolds had 15 points in the losing effort. Marquette in the end just shot the ball better and outlasted the Wildcats.
January 2
#11 Syracuse (2-0) v. South Florida (0-1)
59-54 F
My postgame reactions here.
January 3
#3 Pittsburgh (2-0) v. #8 Georgetown (1-1)
70-54 F
The best match up of the day, especially after Georgetown dismantled UConn, was a let down. Pittsburgh physically dominated in the game earning rebounds and having killer post play. This game snaps a 29 game home winning streak at “The Phone Booth” for Georgetown. DaJuan Summers had 22 points for Georgetown, but it was not enough as DeJuan Blair had 20 points for Pitt. The Panthers win in convincing fashion.
#10 Notre Dame (1-1) v. St. John’s (1-1) (at Carnesecca Arena in Jamaica, NY)
65-71 F
The first big upset of the year in the Big East. It was a cold night in New York for the Fighting Irish. Stingy defense from St. John’s caused ND to only make 4-17 from long range. Luke Harangody had another ridiculous day with 28 points, 14 rebounds, four steals, and four assists. But it was not enough as Notre Dame loses on the road.
West Virginia (1-0) v. Seton Hall (0-2)
92-66 F
Another dud for the boys from Jersey. However the theme in the league is players having huge nights on the losing team. The Hall’s Jeremy Hazell earned 29 points, but it was not enough as The Hall only made 23 of 52 field goals, while WVU made 32 of 60. Having more possessions and capitalizing on them is what it was all about in this game.
Rutgers (0-2) v. #2 Connecticut (1-1) (at Gampel Pavilion in Storrs, CT)
49-80 F
Not even close. The far superior Connecticut team dismantled Rutgers after playing poorly against G’town. The difference, five players for UConn had double figures in scoring, while Rutgers only had two. Rutgers shot poorly (28.8%), while UConn did not (51.9%). Hasheem Thabeet had 15 points and eight rebounds. UConn is back on the right track. Hello wake up call, it’s me Connecticut. UConn improves to 16-1 all time versus Rutgers.
DePaul (0-2) v. Providence (2-0)
54-62 F
DePaul kept it close, as they only trailed by a point with 10:20 remaining in the game. But Providence used their possessions fairly well in the last ten minutes, and DePaul failed to capitalize. Weyinmi Efejuku (who?) of Providence had 18 points, including shooting four of seven from long range. DePaul just could not convert down the stretch.
January 4
Cincinnati (0-1) v. #25 Marquette (2-0)
50-84 F
Jerel McNeal had a career shooting night from beyond the arc (7-7) to give the Bearcats no shot in this game. He finished with 26 points and six rebounds. Cincy’s poor shooting did not help either as they finish 3-19 (15.8%) from three point range and 32.7% overall from the floor. Marquette won big and Cincinnati looked bad.
January 5
#10 Georgetown (1-2) v. #13 Notre Dame (2-1)
67-73 F
Not a bad game for a Big Monday. Notre Dame extended the nation’s longest home court winning streak to 44 games. Luke Harangody had another monster game, earning 31 points on 11-19 field goals and 9-9 free throws. See Syracuse, a big man that can make free buckets. He also had 11 rebounds. Meanwhile Georgetown had trouble shooting the long ball as they only made four of 18, and thus Notre Dame was able to stay ahead with key inside play and better shooting from downtown. A fun game to watch.
Weekly Awards
Team of the week: Pittsburgh
Player of the week: Luke Harangody
Best Game of the Week: January 5th - Georgetown v. Notre Dame
Worst Game of the week: January 3rd - Rutgers v. Connecticut
Kudos of the Week: St. John’s for beating Notre Dame and defending your home court.
Player of the week: Luke Harangody
Best Game of the Week: January 5th - Georgetown v. Notre Dame
Worst Game of the week: January 3rd - Rutgers v. Connecticut
Kudos of the Week: St. John’s for beating Notre Dame and defending your home court.
Shame of the Week: UConn for playing so flat and uninspired against G'town on national TV at home.
So that was the week that was in the Big East. Currently Villanova and Seton Hall are tied in overtime so you’ll hear about that next week if you miss it tonight. Either way the Big East is delivering big and entertaining games as you expected, as well as some upsets already. I love this conference. Any tips or something missing from the coverage you want, e-mail at syracuseorange44@gmail.com.
So that was the week that was in the Big East. Currently Villanova and Seton Hall are tied in overtime so you’ll hear about that next week if you miss it tonight. Either way the Big East is delivering big and entertaining games as you expected, as well as some upsets already. I love this conference. Any tips or something missing from the coverage you want, e-mail at syracuseorange44@gmail.com.
Labels: Basketball, Big East, Big East Report