A NEW LIFE. THE LEGACY OF ANDY AKPAN

[Deuce2223]

LIVE FROM TEXAS SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY

In attendance today is A.D. Alois Blackwell,former head coach Robert Moreland and former player Kevin Granger, along with the new head coach of tiger basketball Andy Akpan.

Blackwell.-Thank you everyone for coming today. As most of you know I felt that at the end of last season our basketball program need to head into a new direction. I am very gratefull for what Coach Courtney was able to do for this team but to be able to get over that 15 win hump we need someone fresh and someone new. As some of you are aware the coaching posistion came down to 3 finalists. Former head coach Robert Moreland who lead the Tigers for 26 seasons and 399 wins. Former player Kevin Granger and last but no least Andy Akpan.

Reporter-A.D. Blackwell who is Andy Akpan?

Blackwell-Andy Akpan is a former NCAA player who played for Coach Dezaron at Boise State. He was a 4 yr starter and a major contributer to the team. Thought to be a 2nd round pick in the NBA draft by the Seattle Sonics, Andy instead went undrafted and headed over seas to play ball in Europe. He is also the Tigers new head coach.

Repoter-Wait!! Did you just say Akpan is the new head coach??? Why is Moreland and Granger here then??

Akpan-Actually I will take that one. I asked A.D. Blackwell to have Coach Moreland and Coach Granger here today because after I found out they were in the running for the job I got, I called them to ask if they would consider joining my staff. Coach Moreland brings alot of expierence and is a great teacher(B-) and Coach Granger having played in the SWAC knows the other teams and knows the recruting area.(C in scouting). He was also a pretty good scorer in his day and brings some offense knowledge(C+)

Reporter-So we know what they bring to the table but what about you.

Akpan-Well as you know playing for Coach Dezaron I learned a very complex offensive system that helped us take down many top teams in the nation. I also got a chance to listen to how he talked to players about what a joy it was to play for him and whatever university he was coaching at the time. I must say Coach Dezaron was slick. I think he would've made one great car salesman. :) So what do I bring well I bring offense(C) and Charisma(B) The rest I guess I will have to learn as I go.

Reporter-So how did you hear about Texas Southern?

Akpan-Well Coach Dezaron spent a short time here before going to Boise State so he talked about it and I have been following the Tigers for a few years now.

Reporter-So what do you think about the team and your chances this year.

Akpan-Well after a 14 win season I feel like we have a good chance to improve. Do I think we can win 20? I don't know we have a very tough schedule and the season is only 2 weeks away. I feel like 16-18 wins is a pretty good mark. Making a run in the SWAC tourney however will be our only hopes to go to the Big Dance. I do hope though that if we can win some of the big games we might at least get a look at the NIT.

As far as the team goes. Well we have a solid group of guys here. Not alot of young talent(part of the reason why Coach Courtney is gone) so this year we will pin most of our hopes on 3 players.

JR-SG Sollie Noorwood-Avg 9.5 ppg last season and can shoot the 3(81). He will be a major player for me this year.

SR-PF Jacques Jones-Led the team in scoring 14.3 ppg and rebounds 6.4 rpg. He is our highest rated player overall (67). He has the talent to put up and pull down double digits night in and night out.

JR-SG David Burrell-Transfered from Texas Pan America. He is the next best 3pt shooter we have(77) and this season will be our 6th man off the bench.

Reporter-Well it looks like you do have some talent. Do you have any other goals this year? Also what does your schedule look like?

Akpan-Well my other goals this year besides the wins and a hopefully NIT appearance is to bring in some talented recruits. I have 6 scholarships to offer, and not much size on the bench after 6'11 M. Bell. So I am going to look to bring in atleast 2 bigman. I also hope to bring in a new SF. Bobby Jones is going to start this year for us, but he is a more natural 2 guard. Last but probably the most important is I need to find a couple more shooters. Having players who can knock down the 3 is very important to the offense I run.

As far as the schedule goes I will leave that up to A.D. Blackwell.

Blackwell-Well its getting late so I am not going to run through the entire schedule but to give you a glimpse of what the non conference looks like I worked out a deal with Kentucky to play a home away series. This year we head to Kentucky but next year they will have to come to H&PE Arena(8,100) one of the largest in the SWAC. I am not going to lie this years non conference is tough. Coach Akpan will have to also hit the road to play Texas,Houston,Texas Tech,TCU,SMU and he also gets a home matchup with UTEP.
We also were invited to play in the Jackpot Challenge B Division.

Reporter-Wow!!! Did Coach Akpan know what he was in for??

Akpan-Actually I did. I don't know if we can hang with the Texas,Texas Tech and Kentuckys of the world, but I feel we can beat teams like TCU,SMU,Houston and UTEP.

ReporterWell good luck coach.

[Fresh]

I like the storyline here duece...but i'm gonna pass on following this legacy, its starting to get old here.....J/K you know im following bro!! Hope you have a great success

[Deuce2223]

I like the storyline here duece...but i'm gonna pass on following this legacy, its starting to get old here.....J/K you know im following bro!! Hope you have a great success


OUCH. You had me going for a minute. :(

Now if I can only figure out how to make mine so pretty like yours:p I must admit I am a idiot when it comes to figuring out how to get logos and pictures up. Maybe the stupid computer basic classes I am getting paid to take next month will help :confused:

[Fresh]

OUCH. You had me going for a minute. :(

Now if I can only figure out how to make mine so pretty like yours:p I must admit I am a idiot when it comes to figuring out how to get logos and pictures up. Maybe the stupid computer basic classes I am getting paid to take next month will help :confused:
http://www.2ksports.com/forums/misc.php?do=bbcode --- go to that site and its just like when you put color in your posts, u just have to put the address of the pic in between the brackets...

[blue_apocalypse]

I'm predicting Sollie Noorwood to be first team all SWAC. Seems like a tough non-conf schedule..good luck!

[Deuce2223]

I'm predicting Sollie Noorwood to be first team all SWAC. Seems like a tough non-conf schedule..good luck!


Noorwood and Jones both I hope. I acutally played with these guys in 2k7 and in a early legacy this year. Noorwood is a great 3pt shooter and Jones is a double double machine. Pretty much the perfect combo for starting out at a small school.

As far as non-conference goes, it is tough. I did add the Texas Tech game. They had me playing UTEP twice in a home away deal, but i backed out of the away game and took Texas Tech, kept the home came. I also changed the SMU game and TCU game from like Iowa St and Purdue I think. I figure if I am going to go on the road my 1st year I rather play some of the larger texas schools then go out of state. Hopefully it will help me land some instate players.

[Deuce2223]

I will be posting the rosters and full schedule later tonight. I do plan to play a few of my AAU games in hopes of finding some players who are interested in Texas Southern and also earn those much need recruiting points.

As far as the season goes I will be playing on MOP 13 minute halfs with the Sliders I just got from Cincy.:)

[Deuce2223]

Okay so we have had a little change of plans. Rather then play out my career at Texas Southern. I am going to give a recap of what happened during what happend well I was the Tigers Head Coach and being my posting with my 1st year at my new school.

YEAR 1
With a tough non-conference schedule the Tigers would struggle going 6-7 but would win a big games over Houston and UTEP and the Jackpot Challenge Tourney. Conference play would be kinder on Coach Akpan and his Tigers as they would go 12-6 finisning 2nd in the SWAC. After a 1st round win over Southern they would fall to Jackson St in the semi-finals of the SWAC finishing the year 19-14.

KEYS TO THE WINNING SEASON

Jacques Jones was name All-Confernce 1st team and Sollie Noorwood was named to the 2nd team.. D. Burrell also had a good year avg 11.0 pts a game. Both he and Noorwood along with some key recruits would play a big role in year 2.

NEW RECRUITS

With 6 scholarships to offer. Coach Akpan was hit hard with many players choosing other schools over the Tigers in the last week of the seasons, leaving the Tiger staff scrambling to find players through those left over.

Key signings-
SF 6'4 Preston Frey a 3* #496 overall he came in with a 65 rating.
C-7'0 Ralfel Pilgrim a 2* #696 but #78 C. He had a overall rating of 67.

YEAR 2
Again with another tough non-conference schedule the Tigers would once again struggle in winning only 5 games however one of those wins was over #15 ranked Kentucky at home in the return game of last years away game. However once again conference play would prove to be the Tigers strength. The Tigers went 15-3 winning the conference and the conference tourney. Coach Akpan was named Coach of the Year in the Swac. The 20 win season and tourney win also earned the Tigers a #14 seed in the NCAA tourney. Their 1st round opponent #3 Wisconsin. In a defensvie battle the Tigers pull off the upset winning 64-62. However their next opponent would not go down so easily. Facing a tough Gonzaga team the Tigers would hang with the Zags early but in the end just didn't have the firepower to keep up. Final was 77-73.

KEY NOTES OF THE SEASON
Sollie Noorwood was named to the 1st team all conference. His 3pt skills were the reason why the Tigers did so well. He will be greatly missed.

COACHING OFFERS
With the Zags playing so well many thought that Coach Few would be one of the hottest coaches in the nation for the larger power confernence teams. How Coach Few would instead resign to stay with the Zags and the program he built. Instead it was Coach Fox from Nevada that would move on and sign to take over the Wake Forrest program. Nevada would not look far for its replacement. After years of terrorizing the Wolfpack as player for Boise State, Nevada targetted Coach Akpan. However with other offers on the table also in Hawaii,E. Michigan and UTEP, Coach Akpan had a tough choice to make.
However after a sit down with his players and with some recruits. The decision was easy. Coach Akpan would return to the Tigers program.

KEY SIGNINGS
PG-6'3 Trevor Maxwell-3* ranked #296/98 (72)
SG-6'2 Tony Leggins-3* #300/78 (71)
C-6'11 Dillon Townson-3* 240/20 (75)
PF-6'10 Danny Felton-#3 #168/10 (77)

YEAR 3
This was a tough year with a starting lineup of Maxwell,Leggins,Frey,Felton,Townson. Coach Akpan knew his young team would struggle, but never did he see what actually happened. The Tigers would struggle all year without any consistant 3pt shooters with Noorwood and Burrell both gone to graduation. They would finish the season 12-14 and earn the last seed in the SWAC tourney. However I guess it was just time that these young Tigers needed as they run the SWAC tourney finishing the year 15-14 and earning a #16 seed in the Big Dance. Their reward a matchup with #1 Florida 25-4. It wasn't even close as the Gators rolled the Tigers 100-60.

Coaching offers
Having signed a 4 year extension with the Tigers. Coach Akpan wasn't available to those looking but it didn't really matter because there were really no offers of interest.

Key Signings
Coach Akpan signed his 1st 4* 6'1 PG. DJ Humphries rated #80/20.
Also signing
3*-296/58 SF 6'5 A. Wilson
3*-#428/70 PF 6'11 C. Ravelio
2*-#696/88 C 7'2 C. Atkins

Again the Coach Akpan and the Tigers would fail to find a 3pt shooter that could help take over the scoring load.

YEAR 4
The young Tigers with a year under their belt would make a better run in year 4. They pulled off a huge upset win over #5 Texas on the road. Coach Akpan would fall just short of winning 20 games again finishin the year 19-11 losing in the conference final to Alabama St, but earning a NIT bid to face the 22-4 Kent St. The Tigers though would struggle early and lose the game 74-65.

COACHING OFFERS
Coach Akpan once again was flooded with offers, but the only school that even came close to pulling Akpan away was Witchita St in the Missouri Valley. Who had just made a 2nd round appearence in the NCAA. However once again the thought of leaving this young team was able to keep Coach Akpan in Houston leading the Tigers once again.

Recruits
The decision to stay payed off big time for the Tigers and Coach Akpan was able to land his 1st Top 20 recruiting class. The Tigers staff added 3-4* including #49 overall 6'8 SF M Ireland the Mr. BB from Alaska, who reminds Coach Akpan of himself. The Tigers also landed 2 SG. #71/22 E. Dalgarni and #91/30 Brian Rivers.


I will the rest of the history of Coach Akpan and his stay at Texas Southern later today. Year 5 was a amazing on for the Tigers program. I couldn't believe it when I saw it.

[Deuce2223]

YEAR 5
A historical year for the Tigers. The team would go 11-2 in non-conference play winning some huge games including a win over #1 ranked Kansas. They also won the Jackpot Challenge for the 2nd time. Once conference play started the Tigers continued to roll over their opponents going a perfect 21-0 including the conference tourney. The 32-2 record also got the Tigers ranked in the Top 25. They came in at #19 in the Media Poll #23 in the Coaches. They were the #2 Mid Major and had the #36 RPI. They finished 5th in the Nation in scoring. All of these accomplishments earned the Tigers a #4 seed in the Big Dance. Their 1st round opponent was Townson (22-9). The Tigers wer favored to win and win they did 80-74. However in the 2nd round the opponent would not be so easy. They would face off against #5 Michigan St. However like I said this was a historical. The Tigers would pull off the upset win 82-75 advancing to the sweet sixteen. Howeve the magic would end there as the Tigers faced off against #1 Clemson. Final score 82-70.

COACHING OFFERS
Even after the amazing year the Coach Akpan still was not getting much love in the coaching world. Only Houston was close to offering Akpan deal finishing #2 in the intereview process.

RECRUITNIG NEWS
The Tigers with 3 scholarship offers and Coach Akpan and his staff went big this year.
1) C 6'11 JS Echols #133/5
2) PF 6'9 K. Hollins #108/19
3) PF 6/7 R Tiggs #233/40

YEAR 6
The wins just keeping on piling up for Coach Akpan and Texas Southern Universtiy. With a tough non-conference schedule with game no one would have predicted the Tigers going 12-3.(Big wins over Texas Tech,NC State,Kentucky,Kansas State) and one of their losses against #1 Gonzaga who finished the year 32-1. The Tigers expected to see some love in the Polls. However that nation and fellow coaches were still not impressed as the Tigers could climb no higher then #16. However after a conference loss to Grambling the Tigers dropped out of the Top 25 even though they finished the year 29-4 winning the SWAC Conference for the 3rd time. Their record did however impress the selection committee as the Tigers recieved a #8 seed and a 1st round matchup against #9 Nevada (21-11)

Here is a clip of a interview with Mike and Mike in the Morning with Coach Akpan as the guest.

MIKE AND MIKE-So Coach congrats on another amazing year. You have really built something down there in Houston. So how does it feel getting paired up against the Wolfpack in the 1st round.

AKPAN-Well first let me say thanks on the season. It was another amazing year. This team really impressed me. We have some very good talent here and I feel like we have just as good of chance as any team going into the tourney. As far as facing the Wolfpack. Well they are a team I am very familar with. As you know I grew up in Nevada and Coach Fox recruited me as a player, however I must say when I signed with the Broncos all my ties and loyalties to the Wolfpack ended there.

MIKE AND MIKE-So i have to ask is that part of the reason why you turned down the chance to follow in Coach Foxes shoes at Nevada?

AKPAN-It is. When I came to Texas Southern, I made a committment to the University and to A.D. Blackwell that I would put the program on the map, unless I got the opportunity to return to Boise State.

MIKE AND MIKE So does mean you are officially off the market for any other school?

AKPAN-No it just means they are going to have to make a pretty sweat deal. :) Well guys thanks for having me but I need to go. I got a big game tomorrow.

TSU vs Nevada Final Score 76-75. The Tigers advance but face off against #1 Michigan St.

TSU vs Michigan State Final Score 84-80 Spartans. The Tigers lose in the rematch and their season is over.

COACHING OFFERS
Coach Akpan has become a top prospect in the coaching world. This year several schools would give Akpan the chance to join the bigtime ranks. Purdue was the 1st to call. Having finished last in the Big Ten winning only 10 games, the Boilmakers were looking for a change. However after looking at their roster, Coach Akpan couldn't see himself winning to many games in the next couple of years. UMass was the next school to offer, but yet again Coach Akpan didn't feel it was the right fit. The 2 schools however peaked his interest very much. The Univesity of Minnesota brought Coach Akpan in for a interview along with Coach Hawkins of W. Michigan. After talking it over and to the disappointment of Coach Akpan the Golden Gophers would name Coach Hawkins as the new head coach of the Gophers. The next school to offer was San Diego State. The Atecs finished the year at 30-5 going to the Final 4. I would take Coach Akpan a few days to decided but after talking it over with his team, he felt like he still had to much to accomplish at Texas Southern.

RECRUITING NEWS

The decision to stay payed off big time for Coach Akpan and the Tigers as they had one of their better classes. With 4 scholarships the Tigers landed 3 playes in the Top 200 and another big guy.

1) 4* PG 6'1 R. Hixon ranked #46/21 (76)
2) 3* SF 6'10 R. Hite ranked #123/46 (73)
3) 3* PG 6'0 B. Nijila #155/45 (71)
4) 3* C 6'11 T. Goode #429/38 (68)

[Deuce2223]

TEXAS SOUTHERN TIGERS WIN A NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP

Another amazing year for Coach Akpan and the Tigers. They once again would go 17-1 in the SWAC winning the conference and the tourney to finish the year at 27-5. The Tigers once again though would be left out of the national picture failing to show up in either poll as they finish the year with the #56 RPI. They would however recieve a #11 seed in the Dance and a first round matchup with #6 LSU. Having never made it past the sweet sixteen the Tigers were looking to make a name for themseleves and for Coach Akpan.
Barely surviving the 1st round in a 80-78 OT win. The Tigers then faced off against #3 USC. After a 88-82 win the Tigers were rewarded with a matcup against #2 Kentucky. Coach Akpan has already formed somewhat of a rivalary with the Wildcats as they have already faced each other 3 times, with the Tigers winning 2 of them. Well Coach Akpan made it to 75% as M. Ireland led the Tigers with 32 pts inlcuding the winning 3pt. Final Score 72-69. Next up was Wisconsin who provided Coach Akpan and the Tigers with their 1st ever NCAA tourney win. The Badgers were no match for this cinderalla team as the Tigers defeat them 86-72. In the Final 4, Texas Southern would face another team making a name for themselves in #1 seed George Washington. However the magic was in the air toinght as the Tigers take down the Colonials 86-72 and earn a spot in the National Championship against #3 seed Texas.

Before the game here is a quick take from the interview between Fox Sports Jeff Goodman and Coach Akpan.

Goodman-Coach Akpan. Congrats. Wow what a year. Does it even feel real??

Akpan-Well Jeff I must admit at first it did seem like we were in a dream world, but I got a call from Coach Dezaron and he helped me wake up and realize that we can do this.

Goodman-So what did he say and what are you planning on saying to your team to get them ready for this game.

Akpan-Well Coach told me that the same thing he use to tell us when I played for him at Boise. He said just remember tomorrow its not about you, its about the team and playing team basketball. And that what I told my guys. That and to remember that to forget it being for the National Championship and to just go out and play hard. That and to remember that we already beat these guys 2 years ago on the road and now twice the team we were back then.

Back to the game
Well the speach payed off for Coach Akpan and the Tigers as all 5 starters would score double digits and earn their 1st National Championship with a 84-82 win over the Longhorns.

COACHING OFFERS
Again the big programs came calling. Wisconsin and South Florida, however once again the fit just wasn't there for Coach Akpan. Being a west coast native, rumor is Coach Akpan is holding out for a offer from the Pac-10. .

RECRUITING
With only 2 scholarships to offer Coach Akpan and his staff targetted 2-4* Instate players. I. Bryant a SG from Dallas ranked #91/23 (77) would sign in the 1st week, however A. Conner would spurn the Tigers and sign with the team they just beat in the National Championship the Texas Longhorns. With a team full of underclassman Coach Akpan decided to take a risk and use the open scholarship on A. Cisse from Ivory Coast. A 3* rated SF Cisse would end up with a 69 overall rating.

[Blackluck]

Great read so far! I just picked up the game and have been ispired by you guys to start my own thread on here. Good luck.

[Deuce2223]

Thanks for the read. I will be keeping a eye out for yours.

[Deuce2223]

YEAR 8

Coming off a National Championship win can be hard on a team as every has goals of taking you down. However this Tigers team would have none of it. This year we stayed in Texas in our non-conference schedule to show the state that we are the best team in Texas. With games at Baylor,Texas,Texas Tech,Texas A&M and home games against TCU,SMU,North Texas. I was surprised with how well we did. Going 3-0 against Texas was a dream come true. With only Texas A&M left before conference play it looked like we were going to pull of the impossible. However the Aggies had different ideas. Tied at the half 38-38, I knew we were in for a battle. The 2nd half would not disappoint the fans but did send us home with our tails between our legs in a 75-74 loss.

This would be our only loss as the Tigers went on to win the Golden Bear Classic before heading into conference play. The SWAC once again crumbled at the hands of Coach Akpan and his mighty Tigers. They would finish perfect goinng 30-1 including the SWAC tourney. The record would almost go unnoticed as the Tigers were only ranked #18 in the Media and #23 in the Coaches Poll despite being their #35 RPI. Well the selection committee saw what others didn't and reward the Tigers with the 2nd #4 seed. This years 1st round opponet was Creighton 23-10. After a 74-62 win the Tigers moved on to play #5 Villanova. The Wildcats almost ended the Tigers dream of a repeat but the 3pt to tie the game and force OT missed of the front rim. The Tigers win 76-73 and move on to the Sweet Sixteen for the 3rd time and second straight year. However what was waiting for them was the impossible in everyones eyes but Coach Akpan. Georgia Tech finished the year 32-2 #1 in both polls they had just demolished (26-8( Seton Hall 99-65 in their previous game and have a starting lineup of 4 5* AA. After a 1st half battle the Tigers and Yellow Jackets would head to the locker room tied 40-40. However in the 2nd half the Tigers pulled out all the stops winning the turnover battle 12-6 and pulling out the 81-71 win under the play of the 7'0 Sr C. Raviello 17 pts. In the Elite 8 matchup the Tigers were facing a team very familar to Coach Akpan in the Wasington St Cougars. The Cougs play a defensive game and did their best holding the Tigers to 70 pts however the Tigers can play some decent "D" when needed also and held on to the 70-62 win. The Final 4 was set. #10 USC vs #4 Oklahoma St and #4 Texas Southern vs #4 Tennessee. The Trojans win the opening game 77-64 and had to wait and see who they would face in the Finals. The Tigers vs Vols game would be a old fashion shootout with both teams hitting 10 3's a piece. However in the end it was the play of the bigmen who once again led the Tigers to vicotry and their 2nd Straight appearence in the Finals. Final score 100-85.

I will be playing the National Championship game probably today if the Super Bowl is a blowout early and try to decide the fate of Coach Akpan. Several ACC schools are after him however he has been in deep discussion with the Oregon St Beavers who finsished the year 15-14.

[whitemamba™]

Have you played all 8 of these years in 2 days, or have you had this legacy going for awhile before you started writing it all?

[Deuce2223]

What I did was played a couple of the non-conference games until I got through in-season recruiting. Then I just went and simmed up to the conference tourney and played those along with the games in the NCAA tourney. I was planning on only do this for 2 years but the job I was hoping for never opened up.:(, so I just kept going with it. This is it for me though after year 8 I am either leaving for a new job or will just start playing the entire season with the Tigers. Its a hard choice because this team has become so good.

[Deuce2223]

YEAR 8

THE NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP GAME

USC vs Texas Southern- Final score 89-73

Both teams came out firing with shots falling from all over the court. Sr M Ireland led the way for the Tigers scoring 12 of his 19 pts in the 1st half giving the Tigers a 2 pt lead. 44-42. In the 2nd half Coach Akpan would turn to RS So 7'1 JS Echolas to dominate in the paint scoing 15 of his 17pts in the final period and leading the Tigers to their 2nd straight National Championship win. Final Score 89-73

COACHING OFFERS
After back to back Championships every schoool looking for a coach was after Coach Akpan. The ACC was hit hard with coaches retiring as Duke,Maryland,and Florida State were all looknig for coaches. South Carolina in the SEC also caming calling along with pretty much every team in the WAC minus Boise State.:( Rumors have been a plenty that Coach Akpan was holding out for the Oregon State job, and when it wasn't offered it sealed the deal that he would return to the Tigers for a 9th season. With only 2 graduating players and a very amazing recruiting class the Tigers were set to make another solid run for a 3rd Title.

RECRUITING NEWS

Coach Akpan accomplished 2 goals in recruitng this season. 1st he land a 5* in season 2nd he signed a 5* AA

CW Zaharias at SG from Lubbox Texas rated #25 overall and the 8th best at his poistion signed early

Pat Forth a PG from Dallas Texas rated #22 and 8th best PG signed on also in the 1st week of the recruiting season having just missed the early signing period.

[Deuce2223]

INTERVIEW WITH ANDY KATZ.

Katz-Coach Akpan. Another amazing year. Who would've thought a school with a student body of 10,000 playing in the SWAC that is better known for their marching bands then basketball could not only win 1 National Title but 2!!!!

Akpan-I know Andy. I should be just as shocked as everyone else, but to be honest I am not. I really believe that playing in Texas is a huge advantage. If you take a look at the roster over the last 3 years we have only had 3 players not from the state of Texas. M. Ireland was a amazing player coming in from Alaska. He will be missed. He was the 1st player I think I have seen that reminded me alot of me. However I must admit I think I have found 1 more. Freshman Ricky Hite didn't get much P.T. this year making the transion from SG to SF but I really feel like he is going to be a great player for us the next 3 season. I just got word that over the summer he grew another 3 inches.

Katz Hite?? I don't think I rememebe him what was his # like.

Akpan Well when we recruited him he was a (72) 6'9 SG however we moved him to SF where I felt he would be a better player and he improved to a 74. In very limited play he scored 3.7 ppg and 1.8 rpg however now entering his So season he is 7'0 and a (76) he also has a (73) 3pt rating.

Katz-Wow sounds like this kid could be the real deal. What about the rest of the team. How does the 2 5* recruits fit into the picture.

Akpan-To be honest Andy. I have sat down with both players and we have agreed as a benifit to the team it would be best if both players took a redshirt this year. Both players have a overall rating of (77) however with the depth of our team with both RS SG E. Dalgran and B. Rivers along with RS JR Randy Hixon at the Point, I rather see them save a year of sitting on the bench and instead hit the gym and weight room and see if we can improve those overall # for next season.

Katz Speaking of Rivers and Dalgran have you heard any pro buzz.

Akpan-Actually yes. Dalgran is a lock to atleast go in the 2nd round. He has been contacted by several teams. Rivers however is more like myself. He is considered a Dark Horse, so his senior year will be important for him. The thing with Rivers is he is a little too slow to play the 2 guard but considered to small at 6'4 to play the 3. However I am amazed at how well he moves down by the hoop.I am going to work with him alot to improve on his 33% 3pt shooting though because I really do feel the 2 guard is probably his future.

Katz So do you have time to run through the rest of the roster?

AkpanActually Andy I don't I am a little behind schedule, but I do plan to have the upcoming year media book out later today and that will have the rosters along with the upcoming year schedule.

Katz Alright well thanks Coach Akpan. It has been great catching up with you and the Tigers. I am looking forward to the upcoming year and hope to see a 3peat.

[Huskynation]

i might be feeling a pam oliver special interview here in a few weeks?

[Deuce2223]

YEAR 9

Another year for the record books. With only 3 loses to Notre Dame,Memphis and Nevada and big wins over #2 Kansas,Texas A&M and Baylor to go along another undefeated SWAC season and SWAC Tourney. The Tigers finished the year at 31-3. Their #24 RPI helped them to a #15 ranking in the Media Poll and a #20 ranking by the Coaches. They also recieved another #4 seed NCAA seeding. Will the #4 work magic for the Tigers again.

In the 1st round the Tigers were matched up against (22-10) New Hamphsire. The opening game would be a struggle for the Tigers as they claw to a 63-57 vicotry. In Round 2 the Tigers faced a upset seed in #12 Wyoming who is on a hotstreak after knocking of UNLV to even make the Big Dance they then took down #4 W. Virginia in round 1. However the flame was put out in round 2 as the Tigers defeated the Cowboys 89-69. In the Sweet Sixteen the Tigers faced a familar opponent in #9 USC. The Tigers and Trojans have faced off the last 2 seasons in the Tourney, 2 years ago in round 2 and last year in the National Championship Game. The Trojans are coming off a upset win over #1 Florida 80-76. The Trojans were no match again for the Tigers as the Tigers cruise to a 96-80 win. In the Elite 8 the Tigers once again met a upset seed and a team they are very familar with. #10 Texas. The Longhorns took out #7 Michigan St,#2 Washington and #3 Stanford to only be disappointed by the Tigers yet again. Final Score 87-74. In the Final 4 the Tigers would go up against #6 Arizona who was loaded from top to bottom on their roster with Top 50 players. Trailing 40-36 at half the Tigers would battle back in the 2nd half but in the last few seconds would miss the chance to tie the game and force overtime. The Tigers would lose their chance by 2 pts in returning to the National Championship game. Final score 89-87.

COACHING NEWS
Once again Coach Akpan was the talk of the nation. Duke,Maryland,St Johns would all coming calling, but once again Coach Akpan would turn them down. Many question is he really holding out for Boise State or the Pac-10 or does he just plan to stay at Texas Southern forever.

RECRUITING NEWS
The Tigers once again went big. They landed the Top Bigman in the nation in #98/#1 C6'11 K. Adelke(81) and #130/#4 C 6'7 L. Salisbury(76)

[Deuce2223]

YEAR 10

With a veteran lineup
PG-SR 6'2 R. Dixon(83)
SG-JR 6'7 I. Bryant(82)
SF-RS JR 7'0 R. Hite(80)
PF-RS SR 6'11 R. Hollins (81)
C-RS SR 7'1 JS Echolas (84)

Bench
PG-RS FR P. Forth(80) 5* AA
SG-RS FR C. Zahariuas(80) 5*
SF-RS SO A. Cisse(74) World Recruit
PF-RS SR R. Tiggs(78)
C-FR 6'11 K. Adeleke(81) #1 rated Center
PG-RS JR Q. Nijila(79)
C-RS JR 7'2 T. Goode(73)

Redshirt
L. Salisbury(76) moved to PF do to his 6'7 height

Another busy year for the Tigers they would go 13-1 in non conference play losing by 4pts to UCONN. In conference play the Tigers once again rolled throught the SWAC finally losing in the last week of the season to Praire View, but would rebound to win the tourney and finish the year 33-2. Making the Top 25 Media Poll at #25 with a #42 RPI, the Tigers were given a #6 seed in the Big Dance. Their opponent (24-6) Drake. The Tigers would win a close one 82-76 playing the game without starter PG Dixon and PF Hollins. They also were missing backup guard Q. Nijila off the bench. In the 2nd round action the Tigers would face #3 Louisville. The Cardinals would take advantage of the injuries and take down the Tigers 104-79 ending their run of 3 straight Final 4 appearences. For those who wonder or care, the Syracuse Orange won the National Title

RECRUITING NEWS
Coach Akpan signed 3 players early inseason recruiting
5* 24/5 SG, 4* #50/5 6'9 C and 3* #198/25 SG.

COACHING OFFERS
Coach Akpan got calls from W. Virginia,Wake Forrest,Miami of Ohio and Drake before finally get the call the Coach Akpan had been waiting 10 yrs to recieve. The Boise State Broncos after years of finishing in the middle pack of the WAC finnally had their last straw. After a buyout of Coach Akpan last 5 yrs of his 7 yr contract. He would pack his bags and say goodbye to a team that just had the #10 recruiting class and a team loaded with young talent for a team coming off a last place finish in the WAC and a 7-22 overall record.

[Deuce2223]

IN WHAT WILL PROBABLY BE THE BIGGEST HIRE IN BRONCO HISTORY SINCE COACH DEZARON. THE FORMER PLAYER RETURNS HOME TO HELP REBUILD THE BRONCOS INTO THE POWERHOUSE THEY ONCE WERE

2017-2018 BOISE STATE BRONCOS MEDIA GUIDE

HEAD COACH-Andy Akpan
Bio- Akpan in his 10 seasons as the head coach of the Texas Southern Tigers his overall record was 276-72 with 7-20 plus win season. He won 7 SWAC Championships and 9 SWAC Conference Tournaments. He was a 9-time SWAC Coach of the Year. He led the Tigers to 8 NCAA Appearences inlcuding 4 sweet sixteen,3-Final 4 and 2 National Championships. He also led the Tigers to 1 NIT bid.

Over 10 years Coach Akpan has reached several Goals bringing his overall rating to a B+
He also has a A+ in Offense,Defense,and Charisma, to go along with a B+ in Teaching and a C- in Scouting and Disapline.

ASSISTANT COACHES

Reece Dockery-30 yrs old
Bio-This will be Dockery 1st season under Coach Akpan. His main task will be that of a recruiter with a A- Charisma rating. He is also a B teacher and a C+ Offense with a overall rating of B-

Jeb Granger-30 yrs old
Bio-Another former ex-Bronco and ex-teammate of Coach Akpan. Like Akpan he went undrafted out of Boise State and has battle injuries over the last few years well playing in Spain. Granger comes in with a wealth of knowledge in the offense (B+) and defensive side of the ball (A+) and also has formed some pretty good Scouting skills(B-) He is a B- Overall.

BOISE STATE 2017-2018 SCHEDULE /HOME GAMES IN BLUE/AWAY GAMES IN ORANGE

11/10 POLAR BEAR CLASSIC
11/13 Montana***HOME OPENER***
11/18 @ OREGON STATE
11/22 @ SAN DIEGO STATE
11/24 @ WASHINGTON STATE
12/1 IDAHO STATE
12/5 TEXAS SOUTHERN
12/7 UC RIVERSIDE
12/14 @ UNLV
12/16 JACKPOT CHALLENGE

12/19 CONFERENCE PLAY STARTS



2017-2018 ROSTERS

STARTERS
PG-JR 5'8 ANDRES ARLINE(73) 82 3PT
SG-SR 6'3 LARELL LUFKIN(69) 79 3PT
SF-SR 6'7 JEARON BARLOW(71) 74 3PT
PF-SR 6'7 WALT GIDDEONS(78)
C-FR 6'9 DAN TAMIR(67)

BENCH
PG-FR WALKON 6'2 ALLEN LOGIE(68)
SG-SR 6'2 ERRIEK CESAR(59) 70 3PT
SF-JR 6'7 SCOTTY MURRAY(71)
SF-JR 6'6 KASEY OBASAHON(69)
C-SR 7'1 GYNO BROPHY(59)

REDSHIRTS
PG-FR WALKON 6'1 ELLIS GADSON(68) 73 3PT

[CincyFan]

just got caught up and wow leaving a power house school for the not-so-best of schools now. Apparently coach Dezaron didn't do so well the last couple of years.

You still playing on MOP?

[Deuce2223]

just got caught up and wow leaving a power house school for the not-so-best of schools now. Apparently coach Dezaron didn't do so well the last couple of years.

You still playing on MOP?


Well this team isn't a leftover from Coach Dezaron. After Coach Dezaron left for UNC, the Broncos hired back former Coach Greg Graham. He was the one who ran the program into the ground. :(. Now its up to Coach Akpan to right the ship.

I am playing MOP with the sliders you sent me. With the new patch they are working out very well. I am struggling with my 3pt shot though.

[Deuce2223]

IDAHO SPORTS TALK VIA 1350 KTIK THE TICKET

Mike Prater is the Senior Sports editor for the Idaho Statesman and Jeff Caves does play by play and color commintary for BSU football. They also host Idaho Sports Talk.

Caves-Todays guest is Coach Andy Akpan former BSU player now turned coach.

Akpan-Thanks for having me guys, its a pleasure, I remember listening to your show during my 4 yrs here and was bummed I never got a invite before

Prater-Yeah that was our bad. You were the heart and soul of the team, but it seemed like most people really wanted to talk about the 4 Horseman. :)
Speaking of the Horseman. I see you brought back of them as your new assistant coach.

Akpan-Yeah Grange and I became really good friends and when I heard that his injuries were going to keep him from continueing to play, I knew I need to get him here to work with my big guys.

Prater-Well I must say you have assemble quite the staff and you yourself have become quite the talk out there in the coaching world. Why did you choose Boise. You had so many chances to go to some big programs.

Akpan-Well Jeff when I left Boise we were on the verge of becoming a elite program, and after I left Coach Dezaron did a amazing job winning some National Titles here, but after he left the program went downhill in a hurry. When I got into coaching at Texas Southern I knew that my dream was to come back to Boise and return the Broncos to the glory years once again.

Prater-Well Coach you got your work cut out for you. This team is a veteran group, but not a ton of talent. Coach Graham didn't exactly do you alot of favors. Looks like you have 6 scholarships though to hand out. Any big plans with those?

Akpan-You know on paper this team doesn't look that great but last night we had our annual Midnight Madness and the guys really impressed me. Arline reminds me a a Tajuan Porter(former Oregon Ducks) he is small 5'8 but can shoot the 3 and is quick. Giddens(78 PF) is a beast down low in the post and I am very impressed with the Tamir the freshman C(67). As far as recruiting goes. I have some set goals. With 3 of this years starter graduating and not alot of size off the bench. I am giong to look for guys who can hopefully come in and start in year 1. So I will be looking to add a SG,SF,PF. Along with hopefully 2 Bigman and another shooter for the bench.

Caves-In the last couple of years you have done a amazing job of keeping instate talent at Texas Southern, but were never able to land the states Mr. BB. How do you feel about your chances this year now being back in Idaho.

Akpan-Well Jeff as you know Idaho Mr. BB this year is Henry Mallory the SG out of Borah High School right here in Boise. He is a 4* recruit rated #79 in the nation and #25 at his position. I have had a chance to meet with him at his home already and right now we are sitting #2 on his list at 84% so I really believe our chances are good this year.

Prater-I have noticed that your hiring has peaked alot of players interest in becoming a Bronco. Who are some of the other guys you are looking at bringing in.

AkpanWell Mike we also have another SG out of Seattle that is very interested 88% and #1 on his list. He is also rated a 4* #52 overall and #13 at his posistion, however at 6'6 I have been talking with him about the idea of sliding over to the 3 and starting for us in year 1. We also have several big guys very interested in us and the thought of learning to play the post from Grange, so things are well. I will get more into who and where everyone is once we get through the inseason recruiting stages.

Caves-So you are heading up to Eastern Washington to play in the Polar Bear Classic. Have they announced your 1st round opponent yet.

Akpan-Yeah we are playing Lipscomb our 1st game. We are the higher rated team on paper (79) to there (76) so most have us moving on.

Prater-Looks like you could have a battle in the championship should you make it there #6 Arizona also heading to the Polar Bear Classic is a tough team.

Akpan-Yes I am very familar with Arizona and their team. As you might remember they beat us 2 yrs ago in the Final 4 and Coach Fox recrutiing me out of high school well coaching at Nevada.

Caves-Oh yeah thats right you are from Las Vegas. So are you looking forward to your matchup with the Wolfpack this year.

Akpan-Yeas Jeff I am but even more I am looking forward to is my chance to got to Thomas Mack and play against the Running Rebs and also for our trip to the Jackpot Challenge. I still have alot of family in Vegas.

Prater-Rumor was that you were hoping to land the coaching job at UNLV. Has the school ever contacted you.

Akpan-Yeah a couple years ago they called and asked if I would consider the job should Coach Kruger decide to retire. I told them I was very interested and that they should keep me in mind. However now that I am here in Boise I am not to sure I will be available when they might need me.

Caves-Well Coach looks like we are out of time today. But I am looking forward to the upcoming year and if it is alright with you we would like to have you come on each couple of weeks to talk.

Akpan-Sounds good to me Jeff. Lets plan on having one again right after the In-Season recruiting, that way I can share with you and all the readers and listeners who is coming to Boise next year.

[blue_apocalypse]

Well, congrats on getting offered the Boise State job..but now you have deal with the mighty San Jose State Spartans! :D

[Deuce2223]

Well, congrats on getting offered the Boise State job..but now you have deal with the mighty San Jose State Spartans! :D


Funny you say that because you are picked to finish better then me this year. Your 3rd and the Broncos are 4th. Utah St picked to win and Nevada 2nd.

[Deuce2223]

UTAH ST AGGIES PICKED TO WIN THE WAC AND THE BEST OF THE WAC

The Utah St Aggies rated (84) are picked to finished 1st
Nevada Wolfpack(82) 2nd
San Jose Spartans(80) 3rd
Boise State(79) 4th
Idaho Vandals(78) 5th
Fresno State (78) 6th
Hawaii(76) 7th
New Mexico State(74) 8th
La Tech(72) 9th

Best Overall and Best Shooter-K. Miles Jr SG Utah St(83)
Best Freshman-J. Bridgewater Fr SG Utah St (74)
Best Playmaker-M Muhleisen Jr PG Utah St (80)
Best Pro-B. Marshall Sr PF Hawaii(82)
Best Defender-E. Aquilar Sr PF Nevada (83)

[Deuce2223]

BOISE STATES WINS OPENING ROUND.

1ST HALF SCORE

BOISE STATE-49

LIPSCOMB-35

PLAYER OF THE HALF-
BSU-BARLOW- 12 pts 2/2 3pt

FINAL SCORE

BOISE STATE-78

LIPSCOMB-64

PLAYER OF THE GAME
BSU-BARLOW-21 pts 4 reb 2/3 3pt


OTHER KEY PLAYERS

BOISE STATE
Arline-9 pts 3 asst 1/3
Lufkin-13 pts 1/5 3pt
Tamir-4 pts 6 reb(1st NCAA game)
Murray 14pts 2/3 3pt6t(h man)

LIPSCOMB
Kapono-15 pts 3/9 3pt
Dooley-13 pts 7 reb

BOISE STATE WINS ROUND 2 OVER CENTANARY

1ST HALF

BOISE STATE-46

CENTANARY-36

PLAYER OF THE HALF
BSU-LUFKIN-10 pts 2/2 3pt

FINAL SCORE

BOISE STATE-88

CENTANARY-75

PLAYER OF THE GAME
BSU-Murray-18 pts 4 reb 2/2 3pt(career high off the bench)

OTHER KEY PLAYERS

BOISE STATE
Arline-13 pts 5 asst 2/5
Lufkin-14 pts 5 reb 2/7 reb
Barlow-7pts 4 reb
Giddens-10pts 4 reb
Tamir-8 pts 7 reb
Logie-7 pts 1/1 3pt

CENTANARY
Palmer-16 pts
Kole-10pts 2/2 3pt


THE BRONCOS NOW FACE #6 (2-0) ARIZONA

[Deuce2223]

BRONCOS FALL BEHIND EARLY NEVER RECOVER

1ST HALF

BOISE STATE-27

ARIZONA-37

Coach Akpan take on the 1st Half-"The Wildcats are playing some amazing 3-2 defense and my guys are just not able to get any good looks from 3pt. I don't know if I can every remember a game where I was involved that a team shot zero 3pt attempts. That and the fact Arizona will put one up from anywhere is what has led to the 10 pt lead. Hopefully we can make some adjustments in the 2nd half.

FINAL SCORE ARIZONA-69 BOISE STATE-61

Coach Akpan-"Well we tried hard today but just went up against a better team. They are very deep and have several players able to score from about anywhere on the court. I really felt we defended the deep ball as best we could holding them to 9/36 3pt. But it was our lack of ability to hit the 3 that hurt us in the end 4/9 3pt. I love Ariline desire and abilities but his lack of height has become a issue. They just mauled him tonight. Having Barlow foul out early in the 2nd and Murray not hittnig shots toinght hurt it also

KEY PLAYER STATS

BOISE STATE
Ariline-8 pts 2/2 3pt
Lufkin-12 pts 4 reb 2/5 3pt
Barlow-2 pts 3 reb

ARIZONA
Hanvana-12 pts 7reb 7 asst 1/6 3pt
Welch-14 pts 4 reb 3/9 3pt
Smallwood-13 pts 5 reb 3/8 3pt


NEXT UP HOME OPENER WITH (0-3) MONTANA

[Deuce2223]

3000 SHOW UP TO WATCH THE NEW LOOK BRONCOS

You could tell that the Coach Akpan and the Broncos were disappointed with the turnout as they played down to their competition battling to keep the lead going into the locker room.

1ST HALF SCORE BSU-44 MONTANA-42

PLAYER OF THE HALF
TAMIR-12 PTS 5 REB

In the 2nd half the Broncos would finally just take over behind to play of Sr W. Giddens 12pts 4 reb 4 blks. Giddens would finish with 19pts 7 reb and 4 blks to take home P.O.G honors.

FINAL SCORE BSU-85 MONTANA-75

OTHER KEY PLAYERS

BOISE STATE
Lufkin-13pts 5 reb 8asst 3/7 3pt
Barlow-12pts 4 reb 2/3 3pt
Tamir-19pts 7 reb

MONTANA
Winas-21pt 6 reb 3/3 3pt

Coach Akpan-I was impressed with the play of Winas. Its not very often you see a 7'1 C out hitting 3pts.

NEXT UP THE (3-1) BRONCOS HIT THE ROAD TO TAKE ON (1-2) OREGON STATE

[IITolmesII]

Coach Bombay sends his best wishes from Davis, California. I hope you strive hard, and continue your success. Winning is not everything, QUACK QUACK QUACK

[Deuce2223]

BRONCOS WIN BORDERWAR GAME WITH THE BEAVERS

Coach Akpan-This was a huge game for us. I was disappointed we were not able to get the Ducks on the schedule this year as I feel playing and winning games against these Pacific Northwest rivals will help us in the long run when it comes to landing recruits.

1ST HALF BSU-40 OS-34

In the 2nd half both teams would tighten up the defense and leading scorer L. Lufkin would leave playing only 2 mins in the 2nd half finishing the day with 0pts 0-3/0-2 3pt.
However Sr W. Giddens would have his 3rd straight solid game leading the Broncos to victory. Earning his 2nd POG award-21 pts 7 reb 3 steals 4 blks

FINAL SCORE BSU-69 OS-62

KEY PLAYERS

BOISE STATE
Tamir-11pts 6 reb
Ariline-6pts 4 asst 2/5 3pt

OREGON STATE
McFadgon-12pts 3/8 3pt

NEXT UP (5-1) SAN DIEGO STATE

[Deuce2223]

Coach Bombay sends his best wishes from Davis, California. I hope you strive hard, and continue your success. Winning is not everything, QUACK QUACK QUACK


THANKS FOR THE READ. GUESS IF YOU ARE GOING TO BE FOLLOWING, I WILL HAVE TO MAKE SURE TO DO THE SAME. GOOD LUCK WITH CAL DAVIS. HOPE BASKETBALL TREATS YOU AS WELL AS HOCKEY DID.

[CincyFan]

so how do you like the sliders. I see a lot of your games are closer now than before, but maybe that is cause you are not as powerful as before.

[Deuce2223]

so how do you like the sliders. I see a lot of your games are closer now than before, but maybe that is cause you are not as powerful as before.


Slider are very nice. Games are alot closer and I believe it is a combo of both the sliders and my team isn't as good. I tend to miss way more 3pt shots then I did before, but that too was common until I got a feel for a certain players shot. Things will get better I believe. I really like the flow of the game.:thumbsup:

[Deuce2223]

BRONCOS WIN BIG ONE ON THE ROAD

Thoughts from Coach Akpan-" Going into the game I felt that if we could come away with a victory here then I knew our team would be good enough to compete this year. Taking over a 7 win team I knew that we would have a few growing pains but hoped we could atleast make a run at 20 wins this year and so far we are off to a good start.

1ST HALF BSU-41 SDSU-36

Another start to a solid game for W. Giddens he led the Broncos with 8 pts and 6 reb giving him a very legit shot at a double double on the night. He took P.O.H. honors


FINAL SCORE BSU-71 SDSU-64

Giddens would continue to play well in the 2nd half and would indeed get his double-double but it was actually the play of freshman center D. Tamir that was the key to victory as he too would have a double double on the night scoring 17 pts 12 rebs earning his 1st POG award

KEY PLAYER STATS

BOISE STATE
Giddens-15pts 11 reb
Barlow-10pts 8 reb (almost 3 players with double-doubles
Ariline-10 pts 4 asst 2/6 3pt

SAN DIEGO STATE
Stivers-18 pts 4/10 3pt

[CincyFan]

see I get one person with a triple-double a night, but you have a team based team as you have 3 people with double-doubles (or almost)

[IITolmesII]

deuce, do the sliders help u on mop or does it make it harder? cuz i win too much on all-american, but lose too much on mop. If they make MOP a lil easier can u PM em, thanks.

And thanks for the wishes!

[Deuce2223]

ANOTHER EPISODE OF IDAHO SPORTS TALK VIA THE TICKET ON ESPN RADIO

Caves-Congrats on the 5-1 start Coach. I am not sure anyone in Boise saw that one coming.

Akpan-Thjanks Jeff. Yeah I didn't either to be honest. We got a good draw at the Polar Bear. I knew playing Arizona would be tough, but I was happy that we played with them in the 2nd half and then to be able to go on the road and win against Oregon St and San Diego St was huge. Those wins I think will help us compete with the Cougs next week in Pullman.

Prater-Tell me about the home opening against Montana. Looked like you guys were disappointed in the crowd.

Akpan-I must admit I was. When I played here, we were selling out Taco Bell Arena every night(over 12,000). When I was coaching at Texas Southern we were selling out there every game(over 8,000). So to come here and have only 3000 fans show up, it was very sad for both me and the players.

Caves-So what do you think will help with the attendence?

Akpan-:think: Well hopefully some wins and a chance at some free food:dance:

Prater So I think the question everyone is wanting to know, is how is/did recruiting go?

Akpan Well I am very :D to say that we a :thumbsup: amazing job this year. We filled 4 of the 6 scholarships already and we are very close to getting the other 2 filled.

CavesSweet deal. I got to know did Mallory committ??

Akpan-He did:dance: Here is a breakdown of who we got.

1) 6'6 SG Kirby Hoskins from Seattle WA.
Bio-A 4* recruit. Rated #52 overall and #13 at his pos.

2) 6'2 SG Henrey Mallory from Boise ID
Bio-4* recruit and Mr. BB from Idaho. Rated #79 and #25

3) 6'10 C Konrad CarMichael from Bend OR
Bio-3* recruit. Rated #254 and #19

4) 6'7 PF Ramson Shepperd from Gresham OR
Bio-3* recruit. Rated #432 and #80

Prater-Wow those are some great recruits to pull down in your 1st year here. That is the start to a very solid starting lineup next season. Do you see all the guys playing their 1st year or is there a chance some of them might redshirt.?

Akpan-Right now with the roster we have I believe that only Shepperd will be redshirting next year and that might not happen either. He still has a chance to grow and with no real size on the bench we might need him to be able to come in a relieve some of the other guys.

Caves-So earlier in the year you mentioned you might move Hoskins to SF. Is that still the case?

Akpan-As of now that is still the plan. With Lufkin/Barlow/and Giddens all leaving I see Mallory starting at the 2, Hoskins at the 3 and CarMichael at the 5, with Tamir sliding over to the 4 spot. We will still have Ariline to run the point and the 2 walkons in Logie and Gadson(RS) to back him up. Another possibility will be to see how Murray does and have him play the 3 with either Hoskins or Mallory filling the 6th their 1st year in.

Prater-So can you tell us about the 2 remaining scholarships

Akpan-Not much Mike. I don't want to give out to much info on players we havn't signed yet, but there are still a couple of guys from Oregon including the Mr. BB that are at 80% and have us in their top 3. I am also still looking for some players who might have gotten overlooked by other coaches.

Caves-Did yo miss out on anyone who you thought you might get?

Akpan-Actually we did there was another 4* 6'7 PF out of Montana who was the Mr. BB this year who had us #1 but only at 89%. I thought I might get a chance to work on him throughout the year but Utah St jumped in at the last minute and he gave them the committ.

Prater-Wow bet you are looking forward to handing it to him for the next 4 years:rotfl:

Akpan-:lol: Yeah it would be nice.

Caves-Can you tell us about any of the other WAC schools or how Texas Southern did your 1st year gone??

Akpan-Actually not at this time. We still have 1 more week to go before inseason recruiting is over. I believe at that time Prater and the Idaho Statesman will have a full list of all the schools in the WAC,the Top 10 players in the nation and Top 10 teams along with some other teams of interest.

Prater-That we will

Caves-Well looks like we are out of time again. Good luck next week against the Cougs in Pullman, looking forward to getting you guys back at home for the 3 game set against Idaho State,Texas Southern,and UC Riverside.

Akpan-Thanks guys. I am looking forward too it as well. Hopefully we can get a few more fans out there.

[Deuce2223]

see I get one person with a triple-double a night, but you have a team based team as you have 3 people with double-doubles (or almost)

Yeah this team is all about team ball. Seems like a different guy scoring each game. Giddens(my best player) has been the most consistant but doesn't have the ability to hit the 3 like King, and I have been trying to switch up my offense so my PF doesn't always lead my team in assists but at this point I could go back and probably get him into double digits there occasionally for the rare triple.

Next year could be a different story though. I didn't get a chance to sim up and see what kind of # Hoskins and Mallory have but I am thinking they will be pretty good and solid 4 year players for me. I am hoping Hoskins will grow some and maybe turn into another Akpan/Ireland/Hite type player for me. If Mallory can be as good as Rakim Nash or Ruffin was at the 2guard and hit the 3 then I will be set.


By the way I erased your PM with the sliders, could you send them to Coach Bombay, if you don't I will try and send them tonight after I get home

[Deuce2223]

deuce, do the sliders help u on mop or does it make it harder? cuz i win too much on all-american, but lose too much on mop. If they make MOP a lil easier can u PM em, thanks.

And thanks for the wishes!

Overall it helps. They take time getting use too. I feel you should play 4 or 5 games with them before switching things up. After that you might consider adjusting them to either help you or the computer depending on your record.

I am at work and don't have the sliders here but will send them tonight when I get home, it will be pretty late though. I also asked Cincyfan(Coach Ryan) to send them to you, he is who I got them from

[Deuce2223]

BSU VS WSU LOOKS ALMOST EVEN ON PAPER

The Cougs are in a rebuilding year. Currently a (80) with 3 Soph starting and not a single senior on their team(5 JR,5 SO,3 FR) they are (3-5). The Broncos (79) are a veteran group with (5 Sr, 3 Jr, 3 FR) and currently (5-1).

The 1st half would prove all those # to be very true as the Broncos and Cougs played to a 26-25 score with the Broncos taking the 1 point lead into the half. The Cougs 7'0 Henderson was dominate in the post blocking 4 shots in the 1st half.

In the 2nd half both teams would continue to trade baskets back and forth until the Broncos forced back to back turnovers and built up a 6 point lead. After a missed basket. Sr SG L. Lufkin hit a big 3 to give the Broncos their biggest lead of the night at 56-47. In the final seconds the lead would hold up with the Broncos getting a huge road win 59-50.

KEY PLAYER STATS

BOISE STATE
Lufkin-9 pts 2/3 3pt
Giddens-17 pts 5 reb 3 blks(POG)
Tamir-13 pts 8 reb

WASHINGTON STATE
(So)Spencer-15pts 3/8 3pt
(So) Skeeter-11 pts 5 reb
(Jr) 7'0 Henderson 6pts 6 reb 7 blks!!

BRONCOS DISAPPOINTED YET AGAIN WITH CROWN BUT STILL WIN

In the 1st of a 3 game set at home the(6-1) Broncos defeated (2-3) Idaho State 77-52. However once again less the 4,000 were on hand to see the victory.


KEY PLAYER STATS
BOISE STATE
Lufkin-16 pts 3/4 3pt(POG)
Ariline-9 pts 8 asst 3/7 3pt
Giddens-11 pts 3 reb 3 blks
Tamir-12 pts 11 reb

NEXT UP THE (7-1) BRONCOS FACE THE (6-1) TEXAS SOUTHERN TIGERS

[Deuce2223]

COACH AKPAN TAKES ON FORMER TEAM

In a matchup against his former team, Coach Akpan knew he was going to have to be very creative to pull out the win. The Tigers(90 overall) have a very talented lineup with all 5 starters rated 80 and above. The 1st key to victory came from Assistant Coach Granger as the Broncos decided to give Sr 7'1 Gyno Brophy extended mins in hopes of creating some mismatchs against the Tigers. The Tigers however have some good size of their own in the form of 6'11 K. Adelke and 7'0 R. Hite to go along with 6'9 RS(FR) L. Salisberry. So even the size was pretty even the expierence of Giddens and Brophy paid off as they were able to get Adelke and Salisbury both into early foul troulbe. The half would end though with the Broncos only up 41-39.

In the 2nd half the Broncos would once again work on getting the aggressive Tigers into more foul problems. This time it as 5* SG C. Zaharias who would pickup his 4th foul just a few mins into the 2nd half. With Adeklk,Salisbury and Zaharias all on the bench, the Broncos would build up a 10 point lead that would carry them through the game to the final buzzer. Final Score BSU-82 TSU-72

KEY PLAYER STATS
BOISE STATE
Lufkin-12 pts 4 reb 4 asst 5 steals
Giddens-17pts 5 reb 2 blks
Tamir-19pts 5 reb 2 blks(POG)
Brophy-13pts 4 reb(career high pts)

TEXAS SOUTHERN
Forth-11pts 7 reb
Bryant-15 pts 5/11 3pt
Salisbury-11 pts 7 reb

Attendence-4,102

BRONCOS CLOSE OUT HOMESTAND WITH 7TH STRAIGHT WIN

In another game that looked pretty even on paper the (5-5) UC Riverside(78) battled with the Broncos in the 1st half 30-27 but had no answer for Fr D. Tamir in the 2nd half as the Broncos rolled to a 81-62 win. Tamir won the POG once again with a amazing performance 21 pts 13 reb 3 asst, 2 steals, 4 blks.

OTHER KEY PLAYERS

BOISE STATE
Giddens-19 pts 8 reb
Lufkin-12 pts 10 reb 7 asst(closest I have come to pulling of the triple-double)
Ariline-8 pts 6 asst 2/4 3pt
Murray-10pts 2/3 3pt

UC RIVERSIDE
Cooley-10 pts 2/4 3pt
Zamore-12pts
Boone-13 pts 6 reb 2/2 3pt

NEXT UP THE (9-1) BRONCOS TRAVEL TO LAS VEGAS TO FACE (7-3) UNLV

[Deuce2223]

IDAHO SPORTS TALK WITH CAVES AND PRATER ON ESPN RADIO

Caves-Thanks again for joining us on a edition of Idaho Sports Talk. Once again we are joined by" Boise State Broncos Head Basketball Coach Andy Akpan."

Akpan-Thanks guys its great to be here.

Prater-So Coach that was a amazing homestand to go 3-0 you must be pretty proud.:cool:

Akpan-Yeah I am proud of the guys. To be able to go on the road and win games against San Diego and Washington State and then to be able to come back here and defend our homecourt like we did was a great feeling.

Caves-So I got to ask, It looks like attendence is still struggling:confused: How has it affected the team?

Akpan-Its very :( but I guess its just going to take awhile before the fans get the fact that we are good again.:thumbsup:

Prater-So tell me what is it like to be heading home to Vegas to take on the Running Rebs?

Akpan-Going back to Thomas Mack is huge for me. Its where I played all my hi school championships and I have had great success on that court. Hopefully it will continue not only against the Rebels but also in the Jackpot Challege.

Caves-Looks like you will be facing a familar opponent in the opening round(Grambling)

Akpan-Yeah playing against Grambling in the SWAC for 10yrs will be a advantage for us. They have a decent team, but overall I have had their # for years.

Prater-So how is recruting going.

Akpan-Well Mike we are still working on those last 2 schollys. I am very confident we will fill atleast 1 more with a big impact type player. The other I will probably either hold for next season or use it on a guy who I think could maybe redshirt a year and come in and help us later.

Caves-So iit looks like the WAC is having some success in recruiting. Who do you see as the other big winner so far this year.

Akpan-Well both Nevada and Utah St did very well once again and so did New Mexico State as did Hawaii. Should make for a very challenge WAC next season.

Prater-Sorry guys I promise the Paper will have the report out later today.

Caves-Yeah come on Mike get on the ball. People want to see those #, I want to see those # :)

Akpan-You guys are to :rotfl:

Caves-Well once again we ran out of time. Good luck in Nevada next week Coach, and lets have you on after you get back to break down how all the teams in the WAC did this year along with Top 25.

Akpan-No problem guys looking forward it.

[Deuce2223]

COACH AKPAN A PERFECT 3-0 IN HIS HOMETOWN.

On Wed night the Broncos defeated the Running Rebs 82-72. Again getting solid play from the post Giddens(16 pts 8 reb 3 blks) and Fr Tamir with 24 pts 12 reb 2 blks(POG) again.

Then on Friday Coach Akpan and the Broncos took down Grambling 84-60 to move to the Championship game in the Jackpot Challenge B. The Broncos were led once again by Fr. D. Tamir and his 18 points 7 rebound performance.

In the Championship Game the Broncos took on (7-4)CS Bakersfield. The 1st half was played pretty even 44-40 However in the 2nd half the Broncos would take over outscoring Bakersfield 50-29. Final Score 94-69. Sr. W. Giddens had 25 pts and 11 reb in the win.

NEXT UP THE BRONCOS START CONFERENCE PLAY AGAINST THE NEW MEXICO ST AGGIES.

[Deuce2223]

IN SEASON WAC RECRUITING AND NATIONAL RECRUITING

WAC

Fresno State-Lands 3-3* the #131 and #294 along with a JC transfer.

Hawaii-2-3* 1-2*. One of the 3* was #251 and the Mr. BB from Hawaii the other was the #253 overall. The 2* was a 7'1 C ranked #545 overall and #71 at his pos

Idaho-1-3* rated #392

La Tech-1-3* #201 and 1-2* #689

Nevada-4-3*(#115,141,276,311)

New Mexico State-1-4* #59,1-3* #439,1-2* #699

San Jose St-1 3*-435 and 1-3* JC 6'11 C

Utah St-1-4* Mr BB from MT. #66/#15. Boise State just missed out on landing him. They also signed 1-3* #132

NATIONAL RECRUITING

TOP 10 PLAYERS
#1 Overall signed with NC STATE
#2 Tennessee
#3 Wisconsin
#4 Villanova

Top top 4 players were all PG

#5-Tennensee SF
#6 Memphis SG
#7 Oklahoma PG
#8 USC PG
#9 Duke PG
#10 NC State SG

The best player not signed is the #14 he currently has ULCA #1

TOP 5 RECRUITING CLASSES SO FAR

This is a close race. Personally I am going to say USC because of the posistions they signed but Kentucky will probably win it at the end of the season. Rankings are overall then posistions for those I remember to write down.

#1-USC #8/#6 PG #15/#10 PG #23/#1 C, #46/#9 PF
#2 Kentucky #15,17,21,87,91
#3 Louisville #37,38,73,106,112
#4 Villanova- #4,41,94,196
#5 Pitt-#11,16,32

Also just on the outside Tenn-#2 and #5 and NC State #1 and #10

[Deuce2223]

TOP 25 MEDIA POLL

#1 Louisville 11-0
#2 Kentucky 13-0
#3 Arizona 12-0 (Beat BSU)
#4 USC 11-1
#5 Texas 13-1
#6 W. Virginia 12-1
#7 Texas Tech 11-1
#8 Michigan St 10-1
#9 Clemson 12-0
#10 Stanford 12-1
#11 Duke 9-1
#12 St Joes-11-1
#13 Villanova 10-1
#14 Pitt 10-2
#15 Tennessee 10-3
#16 LSU 9-2
#17 Indiana 10-2
#18 Texas A&M 9-2
#19 Gonzaga 9-3
#20 Maryland 11-1
#21 Florida St 11-1
#22 Oregon 10-2
#23 Cal 10-2
#24 South Carolina 7-2
#25 Miami FL 12-3

MID MAJOR
#1 Gonzaga 9-3(lost to Air Force,Nevada and Fresno) only big win is over Oregon
#2 Texas Southern 8-2(lost to Hawaii and Boise State)
#4 Nevada 9-3
#5 Utah St 8-3
#10 Cleveland St 10-1
#13 Boise State 12-1

RECORDS OF OTHER TEAMS OF INTEREST
Sac State 4-8
Minnesota 8-4
UC Riverside 7-6(includes loss to BSU)
Rider 8-4
W. Michigan 6-6
Miami OH 4-6
Air Force 10-2
Long Island 3-9
Washington 6-3
Washington St 4-7(loss to BSU)
Arizona St 9-3
Davidson 2-6

[Deuce2223]

WAC STANDINGS AFTER NON CONFERENCE PLAY

BOISE STATE 12-1
NEVADA 9-3
Wins over UNC,BYU, Gonzaga and Washington. Probably will be in TOP 25 soon
FRESNO STATE 8-2
Beat Gonzaga. Lost to Minnesota
UTAH ST 8-3
No Big wins but did lose to USC and Pepperdine
NEW MEXICO ST8-3
Beat Oregon St,UNLV and BYU
IDAHO 8-6
No Big wins Lost to Gonzaga
SAN JOSE ST 7-3
No Big wins Lost to ASU and USC
HAWAII 6-6
Beat Texas Southern Lost to Louisville and Wyoming(10-2)
LA TECH 4-10
Beat Auburn Lost to Duke,Kansas,Wyoming twice,Pitt,Texas Southern, and a (9-2) Rice team twice. They by fall have played the toughest non-conference schedule I have seen

BOISE STATE TEAM STATS
PPG-75.6 #4 WAC

RPG-31.8 #2 WAC

APG-13.3 #5 WAC

SPG-8.2 #5 WAC

BPG-4.5 #5 WAC

FG%-.438 #2 WAC

3PT%-.348 #5 WAC

BOISE STATE PLAYER STATS
Giddens-16.1 pgg, 6.4 rpg, 2.9 bpg
Tamir- 14.9 ppg, 6.9 rpg, .8 bpg
Lufkin 10.4 ppg, 3.5 rpg 2.9 apg, 1.7 spg,(7/53 3pt 32%)
Ariline 7.9 ppg 1.3 rpg 4.7 apg (21/55 3pt 38%)
Barlow- 7.9 ppg 5.2 rpg (11/32 3pt 34%)
Murray- 6.8 ppg 2.7 rpg (12/25 3pt 48%)
Logie-4.3 ppg 1.7 apg
Brophy-3.5 ppg 1.6 rpg
Cesar-3.5 ppg 1.1 rpg 1.3 apg 1.2 spg
Obasohon- 2.8 ppg 2.4 rpg

[CincyFan]

it looks as if your conference is doing the same thing the MAC conference is doing. Just playing against average or weaker opponents and no one really good. The end result is teams always having a good record.

[skarface2k1]

Deuce you have two legacies going on at once?

[CincyFan]

Deuce you have two legacies going on at once?

well more like one and a half. Somewhat still does the other one, but since he is at Boise at this one I assume the other one will now be dead.

[Deuce2223]

Deuce you have two legacies going on at once?


No. Coach Dezaron is no more. I downloaded the new patch and got the real rosters so I started over. However because Coach Akpan is a former player and is now back at his Alma Mattar, Coach Dezaron name will still be floated around.

[skarface2k1]

No. Coach Dezaron is no more. I downloaded the new patch and got the real rosters so I started over. However because Coach Akpan is a former player and is now back at his Alma Mattar, Coach Dezaron name will still be floated around.
cool!!!I didn't know what was going on.

[Deuce2223]

well more like one and a half. Somewhat still does the other one, but since he is at Boise at this one I assume the other one will now be dead.

Actually the other one died when I deleated my profile. I downloaded the patch and rosters and so I started over. Coach Dezaron is not dead he still lives, but he has retired from Coaching. He will however make occasional appearences in the life of Coach Akpan.

[Deuce2223]

TO ANYONE WHO IS READING

I would like to incorparate questions you have about my legacy in my bi-weekly radio show on Idaho Sports Talk. Ideas of questions could be about my team or also questions about a team that you follow or a team you might be currently using in a legacy. I already try to inlcude records of teams that I know people are using but have no problem adding more. Anyways hope to get some responses. If not I will just make up questions that some of you might be wondering. You can either post them here or PM the questions to me. Thanks to all who participate.........

[Deuce2223]

TO ANYONE WHO IS READING

I would like to incorparate questions you have about my legacy in my bi-weekly radio show on Idaho Sports Talk. Ideas of questions could be about my team or also questions about a team that you follow or a team you might be currently using in a legacy. I already try to inlcude records of teams that I know people are using but have no problem adding more. Anyways hope to get some responses. If not I will just make up questions that some of you might be wondering. You can either post them here or PM the questions to me. Thanks to all who participate.........

[Deuce2223]

BRONCOS WIN CONFERENCE OPENER

The Broncos played the New Mexico Aggies on Wed night and pulled out a squeker.
Final score 79-77.

In the 1st half both team shot the ball well from everywhere on the court with the teams tied 46-46. However in the 2nd half both would cool off. Coach Akpan would turn to Sr. PF W. Giddens to carry the load though as he finished with a game high 24 pts 13 reb and 4 blks. He of course took home POG. Fr. Tamir continued to show he will be a force for years to come as he just missed his double double with 12 pts 9 reb 3 blks.

After the game we caught up with Coach Akpan.

Akpan"I was very impressed with our team tonight. We held it together and played great team ball once again. Giddens is a special player and Tamir has more then impressed me with his play. At 6'9 he is one of the smaller centers in the WAC but proved he can play with anyone.

THE (13-1) BRONCOS HAVE A WEEK OFF BEFORE TAKING ON SAN JOSE STATE.

[CincyFan]

Coach Akpan I have two questions for you:

1. How does it feel taking over the school you played at under coach Dezaron. And what type of pressure to you have to living up to him?

2. Are you going to stay 2 years and then bolt to an East Coast team like the previous coach at Boise did. We all know how you guys are East Coast "closet" people?

[vols21]

hey dude. trying to get caught up with the new legacy. Guess now I know why we haven't seen Coach Dezaron around lately.

[Deuce2223]

IDAHO SPORTS TALK VIA THE TICKET ON ESPN RADIO

Caves-Hello everyone. Once again we have 1st year Boise State Head Coach Andy Akpan with us.

Akpan-Thanks Guys for having me again.

PraterSo Coach I to ask at 13-1 and one are you surprised that you are not in the Top 25.

Akpan-Not really Mike. No offense to you because I know you are both a part of the media, but I have learned over the years that most of the time the media don't really know what they are talking about.

Caves Ouch :box:

Akpan:rotfl: You guys know I wasn't totally serious, its not like the fellow Coaches get it right either ;)

Prater So I take it you have some issues with some teams in the Top 25

Akpan-Personally yes I do. I feel that we have played a stonger schedule then Gonzaga. They have only 1 big win and 2 of their 3 loses are against WAC teams. Guess I can only hope that this means the media respects the quality of the WAC this year.

Caves Well that brings up the next question. Looks like the WAC is looking pretty strong this year with 7 out the 9 teams with winning records

Akpan Yeah I have to admit things are looking like this could be a tough year, even LA Tech could be tough to handle they are a much better team then their record. They played a really tough schedule

PraterLooking at recruiting, it looks like the WAC is just going to keep getting better too.

Akpan- You are right Mike. All the Coaches did a great job landing some very talented players. But I really feel overall we will still have the best class and with 6 scholarships to offer again next year we have a chance to bring in the type of players that I need to upgrade this offense.

Caves-That makes alot of sense. I was going to ask if that was the reason for the low scoring output?

Akpan It really is Jeff. We have some good players this year but we don't really have anyone who is super great. Giddens has been huge for us and Tamir is getting better everyday. With the players we have coming in. I feel really good about how he will be able to mesh with those guys next year.

Prater So how are those final 2 scholarships going?

Akpan-Things are going good. We are very close to getting a 100% verbal from to really good players. However you know how verbals go they don't mean anything until they are signed on the dotted line.

Caves-Well Coach, we wanted to do something a little different on the show. We have requested that people email in questions for you. Are you up to answering a few questions before you go.?

Akpan-Always looking forward to it.

Caves-The 1st question is. Do you think you are up to the challenge to walk in the shoes of Coach Dezaron?

Akpan-That is a very good question. Personally I think I have the abilities to do it. I am only 35 and I am already nearing 300 wins. I have 2 National Titles and have shown I have the abilitiy to recruit big time players.

Prater-The next question is sorta a 2 part question. Part 1 is How long do you plan on staying in Boise and do you plan on heading to the East Coast.

Akpan:rotfl: Wow I can only guess who sent that one in(Coach Ryan). To answer the 1st part. I guess that is hard to say. When I signed my contract I gave Boise my word I would be here at least 2 years. After that I will just take it year by year, but I have to be honest with the guys coming in and with 6 schollys next year I can totally see myself staying here for many many year. As far as Part 2. I don't want to hurt Coach Ryan feelings:p But I really don't see myself ever going to the East Coast. I had my chances. I could be coaching at Duke,Maryland,Florida State right now and turned them down. I am a West Coast guy and personally for me my goal after Boise State is to coach in the Pac-10. I finished 2nd in my interview at Oregon St a couple years ago, so I don't see that being cocky or dreaming too big.

Caves-Well Coach I like your answers and I am looking foward to our next show where hopefully we will have some more questions from fans(readers) and listeners of the show.

Akpan-Thanks for having me guys.

[Deuce2223]

Okay so I just finisned playing the WAC Conference Schedule. Rather then do regular post for every game I am just going to give a Final Score and quick recap rather then all the stats and player of the game ect... If someone wants that info. I will go back later and tell you exactly what happened.

[CincyFan]

I WANT THE INFO!!!!!!!!!!!!

plus recaps, and pictures, maybe some video highlights, box scores, predictions of the upcoming games, strenghts and weaknesses of both teams, team and player stats, and more!!!!

[Deuce2223]

RECAP OF THE WAC

In week 1 we had a home game against New Mexico which has already been posted and we won.

Week 2 & 3- The Broncos hit the road. The Broncos would go 2-1 on the road trip First on Wed over San Jose State 82-75. Then on Sat against the hated Utah St Aggies. The Broncos would struggle to contain KarRon Miles as he scored 21 pts to lead the Aggies to victory 83-81 in Overtime. Miles only a Junior is considered the WAC Best Overall Player and Best Shooter. The Broncos are now 14-2. They would have a a week off before finishing up the road tip against La Tech. The Bulldogs considered the worst team in the WAC under 1st year Coach A. Gill were no match for the Broncos. Final Score 87-57 Senior W. Giddens led the team with 20 pts 13 rebs giving him his 4th doulbe-double of the year.

Week 5 Returnin home the Broncos would take on instate rival Idaho on Wed night. Down 37-31 at half the Broncos would coming out on fire outscroring the Vandal 55-31 on their way to a 86-68 win. Giddens had his 5th double double with 20 and 10. On Sat night the (16-2) Broncos took on the (18-5) Nevada Wolfpack. With a crowd of 4500 on hand the Broncos took down the mighty Wolfpack 86-71. Senior W. Giddens is on a tear having his 3rd double0-doulble in a row and 6th of the year. 24 pts 12 reb

Week 6 The Broncos flew to Hawaii on Sat to take on the Rainbows in a clash of the 2 football super powers, it was the Broncos would would get the best of the basketball rivalary with a 88-76 win Gidden was held without a double double but the freshman Tamir had one with 16 pts 11 boards. 5'8 PG Jr. A. Ariline also had a great night scoring 14 pts on 4/8 3pt. With the win, The Broncos moved into the Top 25 at #22
Week 6 Started off with a rare game on Monday at New Mexico State. The Broncos struggling from jet-lag would have a tough time stopping 7'2 Jr B. Minnifield as he would score 27 pts and grab 12 rebounds helping the Aggies pull off the 86-81 win. The Broncos returned home to Taco Bell Arena to face the Utah St Aggies. With a Top 25 ranking and a (18-3) record the fans would come out and support almost 8,000 showed up to watch the Broncos continue their home court dominance in a 85-81 win Earning a split with the Aggies on the year. Key to victory. K. Miles miss the game with a leg injury. However the Aggies still go alot of support from their 7'1 Sr C J. Galloway 27 pts.
On Sat the Broncos took on (10-12) San Jose St. The Spartans would struggle on the floor hitting only 2/13 3pt and have a hard time stopping the Broncos 7'1 backup C G. Brophy as he scored a career high 16 pts. Final score 78-74

Week 7 The last of a 3 game homestand against La Tech. The Bulldogs would come out fighting with 6'11 Sr C Parker Allison doing most of the biting. Allison would finish with a game high 22pts but the Bulldogs would still lose as the Broncos were lights out from downtown hitting 9/19 3pt. Final Score 82-78 On Sat the Broncos headed to Fresno to take on a much better Bulldogs team(15-8). However bewteen the play of Gidden double double 14 pts 11 boards and Lufkin hot hand 19pts 4/5 3pt. The Broncos were able to pull of the road win. Final Score 89-83 The Broncos move up to #18 in the Media Poll.

Week off for the Broncos. Coach Akpan and his staff use the off week to rest of the players and take some road trips to recruit.

Week 9 The Broncos would take their road trip of the year in conference play. First they headed north to take on the Vandals It was a off night for the Broncos as they went 2/13 from 3pt and missed 28 FT. This combined with solid nights from D. Tolic(21pts 3/5 3pt) and seldom used So W. Conroy(19 pts) the Vandals pull off the upset win. 86-83
The Broncos would rebound on Sat though heading to Nevada to take on the Wolfpack the Broncos were dominate in the post with Giddens,Tamir and Brophy all hitting double digits. Outscoing the the Wolf Pack by 9 in the 1st half they would hold on to win 82-72 at the end. With the loss to Idaho the Broncos fall back to #22 in the Media Poll.

Week 10-The Broncos wrapped up the regular season with a win over Hawaii on Wed 92-73. On Sat it was Senior Night for the(24-4) Broncos in their final home game against the Fresno Bulldogs(16-11). The Broncos were unstoppable from beyond the arc hiting 8/13 3pts With 5'8 Ariline leading the way with 19 pts 6/8 3pt. However they couldn't hit a charity shot going 27/41 from the stripe. The Bulldogs however could hit the freebies making 31/40 helping them pull off the upset on the Broncos court and ruining Senior Night for the 5 Broncos players. Final Score 92-89

[Deuce2223]

I WANT THE INFO!!!!!!!!!!!!

plus recaps, and pictures, maybe some video highlights, box scores, predictions of the upcoming games, strenghts and weaknesses of both teams, team and player stats, and more!!!!


I gave you plenty of Info. Enough for you that it will probably be a week or 2 before I get a response because you will still be reading:p

Whats up with Coach Ryan. You make fun of Vikings and everyone else who has disappeared but its not like we are getting much out of you.:dance:

[jjredick4]

i wanna get to my legacy, but i still can't, i just gotta finish my sports rivalry project(info on 10 of them + video) and then i'm done, and i can continue my legacy

[Deuce2223]

WAC TOURNEY AT PAN AMERICA CENTER AT NEW MEXICO STATE CAMPUS

Opening round La Tech pulls off the 96-74 win to move on to face the Boise State Broncos.

Round 2
New Mexico St playing on their homecourt pulls off the win over Fresno State 89-69
Idaho squeeks by Utah St 77-75
Nevada beats San Jose St 81-75

The Broncos facing a La Tech team who finished the year (10-20) had no problems beating the Bulldogs and advancing the the semi finals. Final Score 85-60. W. Giddens missed his double-double but still had a solid 20 pts 8 reb 3 blk performance.

Semi Finals
Nevada demolishs the Vandals 83-66 ending their season at (16-16).

The Broncos would have a tougher matchup playing the Aggies on their home floor. Already having lost here once, The Broncos had no plans of going 0-2. However they would fall behind early and have to battle back heading into the locker room down 1 47-46. In the 2nd half however W. Giddens would not be denied a chance for a champoinship ring as he scored 16 of his 25 pts leading the Broncos to a 86-76 win.

WAC CHAMPIONSHIP
(26-5) BOISE STATE VS (23-7) NEVADA WOLFPACK

The Broncos came out as a team on a mission outscoring Nevada 43-31 in the 1st half. Behind sold play from the top 6 players the Broncos would finish off the Pack with a 76-65 win. A. Ariline was the only starter not to score double figures. He actually went scoreless but did dish out 7 pts. Giddens was a moster again earning another double double with 10 pts 13 reb.

[CincyFan]

I gave you plenty of Info. Enough for you that it will probably be a week or 2 before I get a response because you will still be reading:p

Whats up with Coach Ryan. You make fun of Vikings and everyone else who has disappeared but its not like we are getting much out of you.:dance:


What are you talking about. I told everyone I was taking a week off. Anyways if you are saying all I am writing is just recaps of the games..yes that is all I am doing this year.

Next year I am thinking about simming mostly actually if I continue to dominate teams with my team. My team actually is going to get a lot better in the next 3 years. While I am only going to lose 2 starters next year and hten just a couple bench people a year or so later. If I do play next year I will be posting some new ideas I been tossing around, but all in all we shall see.

It will be as much or maybe more info as what I had in the first couple of season's, but right now really don't want to get into it cause I am still planning on how I do it. Lastly I posted 3 games in like 2 days and getting ready to post another one as soon as I am finished with it lol.

So what now bro...

[Deuce2223]

i wanna get to my legacy, but i still can't, i just gotta finish my sports rivalry project(info on 10 of them + video) and then i'm done, and i can continue my legacy


I am sick of excuses:noagree: I expect to see something sooner or I will start to question our friendship:think:

You know I am just kidding. Glad you atleast had time to come in and post. At least I know I still have some followers.

[Deuce2223]

What are you talking about. I told everyone I was taking a week off. Anyways if you are saying all I am writing is just recaps of the games..yes that is all I am doing this year.

Next year I am thinking about simming mostly actually if I continue to dominate teams with my team. My team actually is going to get a lot better in the next 3 years. While I am only going to lose 2 starters next year and hten just a couple bench people a year or so later. If I do play next year I will be posting some new ideas I been tossing around, but all in all we shall see.

It will be as much or maybe more info as what I had in the first couple of season's, but right now really don't want to get into it cause I am still planning on how I do it. Lastly I posted 3 games in like 2 days and getting ready to post another one as soon as I am finished with it lol.

So what now bro...

:confused: Guess all I can say is looking forward to it. :)

[CincyFan]

ohh your reverse psychology isn't going to work on me now. I know your games too well. Anyways are you getting ready to start conference tournament time now or .... where are you excatly in your legacy?

[Deuce2223]

FINAL MEDIA POLL OF THE YEAR

#1 Kentucky 31-1
#2 W. Virginia 31-2
#3 Texas 31-4
#4 USC 28-5
#5 Gonzaga 26-5
#6 Arizona 27-7
#7 Indiana 26-7
#8 St Joes 28-4
#9 Texas A&M 23-6
#10 Louisville 21-9
#11 Duke 25-8
#12 Texas Tech 24-8
#13 Michigan St 24-8
#14 Maryland 24-8
#15 Boise State 27-5
#16 South Carolina 21-9
#17 Villanova 21-10
#18 Georgia Tech 22-8
#19 Rhode Island 24-7
#20 Missouri-21-10
#21 Florida St 22-8
#22 Air Force 24-7
#23 Clemson 24-8
#24 Tennessee 23-9
#25 UAB 24-9

Boise State also finished as the #2 Mid Major behind Gonzaga and had the #12 RPI.

Other teams of interest
Texas Southern 29-3 Lost only 1 game in the SWAC #11 seed
Clevenland St. 17-11
Princeton 19-19 #13 seed
Rider 20-10
Miami OH 10-18
W. Michigan 15-17(lost in the MAC Finals to Akron 77-69)
Long Island 8-21
St Francis PA 17-4 #16 seed(won the Northest tourney 70-65
Washington 17-12 #11 seed
Washington State 10-21 last in the PAC-10
Army 24-8 #12 seed
Mississippi St 22-10 #10 seed
Davidson 14-13
UNC-15-17
Xaiver 16-16
Rutgers 20-10 #7 seed
Idaho State 18-13 lost Big Sky Championship to N. Arizona
E. Washington 10-20
Sac St 13-16
Minnesota 17-14
UC Riverside 18-13(UC Irvine won the Big West 21-10 overall #13 seed)
UC Davis 11-16

[Deuce2223]

ohh your reverse psychology isn't going to work on me now. I know your games too well. Anyways are you getting ready to start conference tournament time now or .... where are you excatly in your legacy?


Already posted my Conference Tourney.

I am getting ready to play the NCAA tourney. Just finishing up doing the recaps on the TOP 25 and teams of interest along with final year stats on the Broncos.

[Deuce2223]

FINAL YEAR STATS FOR TEAM AND PLAYERS

TEAM STATS
PPG-80.5 #2 WAC
RPG-34.5 #1 WAC
APG-14.8 #1 WAC
SPG-7.5 #5 WAC
BPG-4.9 #3 WAC
FG%-.447 #1 WAC
3PT%-.363 #1 WAC

PLAYER STATS
GIDDENS-16.0 PPG,7.5 RPG,1.3 SPG, 2.6 BPG
TAMIR-13.0 PPG,6.9 RPG, 1.2 BPG
LUFKIN-10.8 PPG,2.9 RPG, 3.1 APG, 1.5 SPG 36% 3PT
ARILINE-8.8 PPG,5.2 APG 35% 3PT
BARLOW-7.8 PPG,4.4 RPG, 1.2 APG,34% 3PT
MURRAY-6.7 PPG,3.4 RPG 42% 3PT
BROPHY-6.4 PPG,2.6 RPG,
LOGIE-4.7 PPG,1.5 RPG,1.8 APG 34% 3PT
CAESAR-4.2 PPG,1.2 RPG 30% 3PT
OBASHON-2.8 PPG,2.7 RPG
GADSON-DNP REDSHIRT

[Deuce2223]

NCAA TOURNEY IS ANNOUCED

Akron defeats UMKC 67-61 in the playin game.

The seeds will be East,West,South,Midwest

#1-Kentucky,USC,W. Virginia,Texas
#2 Indiana,Gonzaga,Duke,Arizona
#3 St. Joes,Maryland,Texas A&M,Texas Tech
#4 Michigan St,Louisville,Georgia Tech,Boise State
#5 South Carolina,Florida St,Rhode Island,Missouri
#6 Pitt,Villanova,San Diego,Air Force
#7 Clemson,Providence,UAB,Rutgers
#8 California,Tennessee,Memphis,Miami FL
#9 Kansas St,Illinois,Nevada,Nichollas St.
#10 Norte Dame,Mississippi St,Siena,Oklahoma
#11 Stanford,Texas Southern,Arizona St,Washington
Somewhat crazy to see all the PAC-10 teams getting the bubble spots.
#12 Army,Princeton,Flordia Int,Tulsa
#13 Hofstra,UC Irvine,Northwestern St,Youngstown St
#14 Missouri St, Winthrop,Hartford,St Peters
#15 Samford,W. Carolina,Garner-Webb,N. Arizona
#16 Akron,St. Francis PA,TCU, Morgan St

[Deuce2223]

IDAHO SPORTS TALK ON ESPN RADIO WITH JEFF CAVES AND MIKE PRATER

Caves-Coach congrats on the your season. I don't know if there was a single person out there that thought you would end up winning the WAC and making a NCAA Appearence in your 1st year.

Akpan-Actually there were a few people. Myself included :)

Prater-So it looks like you got a decent draw. Did you ever think you would be a #4seed.

Akpan Yeah I was pretty surprised. Going into the Conference Tourney we were Ranked #20 and I thought we would probably end up with a 5 or 6 seed so it was a surprise to move up to #15 and to get the #4 seed. Then again I didn't realize our schedule ranked out so well either with the #12 RPI

Caves-So you drew Youngstown St who finished (20-10) 11-7 in the Horizon. What can you tell us abou thtem

Akpan To be honest Jeff not much. I had never really heard of them until yesterday. Like you said they play in the Horizon. They actually are not the best team in the conference. Detroit actually won the conference but Youngstown won the tourney.
After I found out who we were playing I called a couple of coaches I know in the Midwest. Coach Cooper actually played against them when he was at Cleveland St and Coach Ryan at Miami OH is a local guy who I knew I could get some info from. Also after checking their schedule I saw they played W. Michigan, so I called up the Coach I know over there too. Here is what I found out. They are a defensive team they ranked #54 nationally on D and #3 in the Horizon. Offensively they were #130 in the Nation avg 69.4 ppg. Their avg scoring margin is only 4.2. They run a motion offense with a pretty slow tempo. They rarely fastbreak and because they concentrate on trans D they don't really crash the offense glass, but go hard on the defense glass, making sure they don't give up 2nd chance points. They mainly run a man to man Defense and also a 1-3-1 matchup.

Prater-Wow. Sounds like you got some great info on them. So I take it your gameplan is to just run them to death and outscore them.

Akpan-Yeah pretty much Mike. Thats been our style of ball since day one, so why change now. :)

Caves-Have you looked ahead at all as far as 2nd round goes?

Aklpan-Not much Jeff. Looking on paper I would say we will probably play Missouri the #5 seed. They are pretty much a mirror image of us. They like to get up and down the court and run a fullcourt trap pretty much the entire game.

Prater-Who is Youngstown best player?

Akpan-Well on paper J. Assel their 6'7 SF ranks out as a 81. However their leading scorer is A. Neverett avg 20.7 ppg. He is a 6'8 PF who ranks out at 80.

Caves-Is there anyone or anything else that scares your.

Akpan Actually there is. They also have a trio of players who are 6'10. Those guys are part of the reason why they are so good defensively. Also S. Robbins their SO PG can shoot lights out if needed. He has a 81 3pt rating and shot over 40% last season before struggling this year.

Prater-Well Coach. Good luck. You know we are all pulling for you.

Akpan Thanks Mike. Thanks Jeff. Looking forward to talking to you guys after the tourney.

Caves-Well that will wrap up another edition of Idaho Sports Talk. Join us next time as we discuss the Road to Glory with Coach Akpan and find out who ended up with those 2 final scholarships.

[Deuce2223]

BRONCOS WIN 1ST ROUND MATCHUP

Behind the play of Sr. W. Giddens 18 pts and 9 rebs and Fr D. Tamir double-double 17 pts 10 reb. The Boise State Broncos. beat the Youngstown Penguins 88-66. Trailing 44-26, the Penguins battle back under the play A. Neverett 19 pts 9 reb and 6'10 So R. Luma 16 pts 10 reb but deficit was just to much to overcome.

NEXT UP THE BRONCOS TAKE ON #5 SEED MISSOURI


In other games.
#16 St Franics PA lost to #1 USC 87-70
#11 Texas Southern defeated #6 Villanova 72-65
#10 Miss St defeated #7 Providence 92-79
#9 Nevada lost to #8 Memphis 90-80
#6 Air Force lost to #11 Washington 74-65
37 Rutgers lost to #10 Oklahoma 71-45

[Deuce2223]

THE STARS ALIGN AS BOISE MOVES TO SWEET SIXTEEN

In what can only be described as a amazing performance. S. Murray came off the bench and helped the Broncos explode in the 1st half 41-29. Murry with only 4 pts but 12 huge rebounds(6 offense) gave the Broncos the 2nd chance points they needed to build a lead that would carry them into the next round. In the 2nd half behind a solid team effort the Broncos increased their lead and finished the game 90-71. Murray would finish with only 7 pts but added 5 more rebounds to give him 17 on the night a caeer high an season high for the Broncos. The Broncos were led in scoring again by Sr W. Giddens 18 pts.

SWEET SIXTEEN OPPONENT VERY FAMILAR TO COACH AKPAN. AS THE BRONCOS WILL TAKE ON #1 TEXAS

In other games
#7 Clemson defeated #2 Indiana 96-57
#8 Tennessee defeated #1 USC 89-73
#5 Florida State defeated #4 Louisville 73-70
#3 Maryland 86 defeated #11 Texas Southern 86-78
#10 Miss St defeated #2 Gonzaga 93-77
#1 W. Virginia defeated #8 Memphis 87-76
#4 Georgia Tech defeated #5 Rhode Island 93-59
#3 Texas AM over #6 San Diego 84-65
#2 Duke over #10 Sienna 97-86
#1 Texas over #9 Nicholas St 79-59
#3 Texas Tech over #11 Washington 87-71
#2 Arizona over #10 Oklahoma 82-71

[blue_apocalypse]

I'm gone for a couple days and you're already in the NCAA tournament at Boise! Good luck taking down the #1 seed

[whitemamba™]

Good luck Coach Akpan! It's good to see my West Virginia Mountaineers are doing well. #1 seed. Maybe you'll get to play them? I hope so. I'd love to see it.

[Deuce2223]

BRONCOS SEASON IS OVER AS THEY FALL TO THE #1 LONGHORNS

The Broncos would jump out early scoring the 1st 8pts and head into the locker room with that 8 pt lead 51-43 In the 2nd half however under a fullcourt press the Broncos would turn the ball over 4 straight possesions. With the game tied the Broncos would and Longhorns would trade basket after basket until the final min were the Longhorns would finally hit back to back 3's giving them a 2pt lead. After a miss on the other end, the Longhorns would hit another basket giving them a 4pt lead and the 87-83 win.

POG
R. Johnson(TEX)- Scored 36pts. He has avg over 20 ppg for the past 2 season.

Boise State W. Giddens had another double double in the loss scoring 15 pts 13 reb and 4 blks.

The rest of the games
The Longhorns would lose their next game to #2 Arizona 95-60.
Texas A&M defeated W. Virginia 74-73
Pitt defeated Kentucky 68-65
Maryland 97-79

Final 4
Maryland 93-81 over Pitt
Arizona 89-52 over Texas A&M

National Title
Arizona 84-65 over Maryland

J. Hanavann of Duke wins Player of Year,Big Man of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year.

D. Hoyer of Sienna won the Mid-Major POG

C. Lowery of Arizona is the Coach of the Year

M. Ariza of Kansas won the Freshman of the Year

COACH AKPAN WINS WAC COACH OF THE YEAR

W. GIDDENS WON WAC PLAYER OF THE YEAR

D. TAMIR WON WAC FRESHMAN OF THE YEAR

A ARILINE AND W GIDDENS NAMED 1ST TEAM ALL-WAC
D. TAMIR WAS NAMED 2ND TEAM ALL-WAC AND FRESH ALL-WAC

[Deuce2223]

END OF SEASON RECRUITING

The Broncos missed out on 2 more 4* SG. The Mr. BB from Oregon ended up signing with Gonzaga and the Mr. BB from Minnesota signed with Depaul. With 2 scholarships still to hand out Coach Akpan and the staff would turn away from the Shooter and add 2 more Big Men to the already solid recruiting class. The first was 7'2 John Chase a 3* out of Inglewood CA. Chase was the #102 overall and #3 Center. The last recruit is P. Chatfield a 6'11 PF from Vancouver CN. Also a 3* ranked #372 overall and #62 PF.

Overall the Broncos would end up with the 25th best class in the nation.


Coach Akpan will be joining Caves and Prater tomorrow to go over next year schedule and the Broncos roster including the 6 incoming freshman,Pre-Season Media Poll,Projected WAC and The Best Players of the WAC.

If you have any questions you want to post regarding this last season or next season please feel free to post them or pm them to me and I will try to inlcude them in the interview.

[blue_apocalypse]

Question: With Giddens graduating you have a hole to fill at the power forward position. Will you be moving Tamir to power forward and starting Chase at center? Or, since Tamir had such a good freshman season, will you leave him at center and insert Chatfield into the starting lineup at power forward?

Question: Which Bronco can we expect to compete for the WAC Player of the Year award this season?

[Vinsane187]

Harsh that the Mr. BB snub you but good job on rebounding with size. (No pun intended). Sorry for the exit against the Longhorns, but it happens. Keep it up D still following just been so busy the last three days haven't even gotten a chance to work on my legacy.

[Deuce2223]

IDAHO SPORTS TALK ON ESPN RADIO

Your Host like always is Jeff Caves BSU Football announcer and Mike Prater Senior Sports Editor of the Idaho Statesman.

You guest is Coach Andy Akpan of the Boise State Broncos.

Caves-Thanks again for joining us. We have alot to talk about today so lets get to it. Coach first let me say congrats on your sweet sixteen appearence. Not to many thought you have that kind of season your 1st year in Boise.

Akpan Thanks Jeff and Mike. Yeah I must say when I got here we were coming off a 7 win year and our roster was not very deep. However Giddens was a beast for us this year and Tamir was huge. Without those 2 guys there is no way we even win 20 games.

Prater-So looks like you ran into a little snag in recruitng with those last 2 scholarships. But ended up with some pretty good players.

Akpan-Yeah I was pretty shocked with Bittee chose the Zags over us. Gonzaga has a very deep and talented team, looking at their roster, I don't see him getting much PT his 1st 2 years. Had he come here he could've challenged for a starting position his 1st year.:confused: But overall we are very happy with who we ended with. Especially Coach Granger. He has visions of rebuilding the 4 Horseman. Rumors are fans are already getting out their old T-Shirts and posters. Chase,Chatfield,Carmichael and Tamir are going to provide us with some big bodys down low.

Caves-What was it like going up against Texas in the Sweet Sixteen?

Akpan-They are a tough team. Johnson was a absolute beast. After dropping 30 on us he scored 40 in the loss to Arizona. The Longhorns are a very talented team but to be honest I still don't think they are the best in Texas. Even though the TSU Tigers made a 2nd round exit they are still very young. I expect next season we will see big things for them.

Prater-So is it true that you are returning to Texas Southern to take on the Tigers on their homecourt this year?

Akpan-It is. Coach Dezaron always told me how tough it was to come back and play your former team, but after they came up here last year and played us, I thought it was only fair to return the trip.

Caves-Do you have any other big games next season.

Akpan-We do!! We got road games at Washington,Wyoming,Oregon and USC on News Year Day. to go along with Texas Southern. We are also playing in both the Polar Bear Classic and Jackpot Challenge again. We also have home games against Idaho State,Washington State,Oregon State,Sacremento State and Gonzaga on Christmas Day.

Prater-Wow that is a tough schedule. Any projections on how you will do?

Akpan-Well our team is very young, but also very talented. Personally I see no reason why we can't win 20-22 games and make a run at another appearence in the dance and if not at least qualify for the NIT.

Caves- So the Coaches voted today and it looks like the loss of Giddens and the rest of the seniors have the WAC picking you to finish 3rd this year

Akpan-Yeah. Nevada is loaded again this year(89), so its a no brainer that most feel they will win the WAC. Utah St(86) also still has a ton of talent so they will be looking to rebound from their loss in the WAC tourney.

Rest of the Wac projections
Fresno St(81) 4th
Idhao(80) 5th
San Jose State(79) 6th
New Mexico St(78) 7th
Hawaii(77) 8th
La Tech(73) 9th

Prater- Who are some of the players to watch for this year in the WAC?

Akpan- Well K. Miles returns to Utah St for his senior year, so he is once again considered the Best Overall and Best Shoooter. M. Muhleisen the PG from the Aggies also returned for his SR year and he is still considered the best playmaker, however I would challenge that because A. Ariline did a great job for us last year. C. Willie the Junior Big Man from the Aggies is considered the Best Pro. D. McCleod from Nevada is considered the Best Defender and last but not least K. Mallory from right here in Boise has been picked as the Best Freshman.

Caves-Well it is that time of the show, to take questions from our listeners. The 1st comes from a listener down in San Jose CA.

Coach Akpan is there a player on the Broncos roster that you feel can repeat and win the WAC Player of the year?

Akpan-That is a very good question. To be honest I don't know. In all of my years of playing for Coach Dezaron, one of the main things I learned is with the style of offense we run, everyone on the team is as important as the next and from what I have seen so far we have 8 different players who could easily score 20 pts a game for us if we asked them to. So with that said I am not sure if anyone will post the type of # over the long haul to even be considered. However if I did have to go out on a limb I would say probably Tamir because of the kind of year he had for us last year or possibliy Hoskins. He looks like the type of guy who could put up 20 pts a night if asked.

Caves Speaking of Tamir the next question is actually about him.

Caoch Akpan what are your plans for Tamir. He is going to stay at Center or do you plan to slide him over to the #4 and start the 7'2 Chase at #5.

Akpan-That too is a good question. Last year Tamir did a amazing job for us at the #5. However being only 6'9 and with the addition of Chase,Chatfield,and Carmichael were are planning on moving him over and going with Chase at the #5.

Prater-What does the Roster look like this year. Are you redshirting any of those incoming guys and who is starting??

Akpan-Well to answer your question regarding reshirting. We will not be redshirting anyone this year. We found out yesterday that Sr Kasey Obasahon has decdied to leave the team and Ransom Sheppard the 6'7 PF out of Greshman OR who signed earlier in the year failed his SAT so he will be heading off to play Juco ball somewhere and with that we are left with only 10 players on the roster. As far as starters go right now we are pretty much set at 4 of the 5 spots. Right now the question up in the air is whether or not Sr Scottie Murray will be starting this year or coming off the bench again as our 6th man

Caves-If Murray starts who would be sitting?

Akpan-Either Hoskins or Mallory. If Murray starts he will play the 3 with one of the other 2 guys playing the 2, however if he comes of the bench then Hoskins will play the 3 and Mallory will play the 2.

Prater-So when are you going to make the decision?

Akpan-After the Midnight Madness. I will make up my mind with the help of Coach Granger and Coach Dockery.

Caves-So how do you plan on splitting the teams? Starters vs Bench??

Akpan-In most years I do. However this year we are going with the a little different

Team Blue will be PG-Ariline,SG-Logie,SF-Murray,PF-Tamir,C-Chase

Team Orange will be PG-Gadson,SG-Mallory,SF-Hoskins,PF-Carmichael,C-Chatfield.

Prater-Wow that is going to be a amazing game. I am looking forward to it.

Akpan-Well Mike I expect to see you there. I must say I was very proud of the fan base late in the year last year. We finally broke the 10,000 mark our last few games and from what I hear it looks like after the Sweet Sixteen Appearence fans our excited. Season ticket sales are up 60% and it looks like we will be starting the year with 10,000+

Caves-Coach I got to admit, I was one of those you bought season tickets this year:dance:

Akpan-Well I thank you for the support:thumbsup: I am looking forward to some sellouts this season.:D

Caves-Well we are out of time once again. Thanks for joining us. We will have Coach Akpan on again after the Polar Bear Classic.

Prater-Keep a eye out in the Statesman Sports Section. We will have the Pre Season Top 25 along with Coach Akpan's decision on the starters after the Midnight Madness.

Akpan-Thanks guys. Looking forward to another great year.:dance:

[CincyFan]

again looks like people don't want to come to Boise and other schools around you. Wondering if that is going to get you angry enough to leave after a couple years with them until they start hauling in some people.

By the way whats up with no East coast teams???? Somone afraid of a little competition?

[Deuce2223]

COACH AKPAN CHOOSES STARTING 5.

Team Blue under the play of So. D. Tamir and Fr J. Chase beat Team Orange 66-50.

Coach Akpan I was very impressed with all 10 players. I am looking forward to this year so much. We have such great depth I would be happy with any of these 10 guys starting.
However K. Hoskins and H. Mallory both impressed me for the Orange team and after talking with S. Murray we have decdied to keep him in his role of 6th man so the new look Broncos will be going with 3 Freshman in the starting lineup.

Starter
SR PG- 5'8 A. Arline(76) 86 3pt
FR SG- 6'2 H. Mallory(78) 89 Quick 95 Hustle
FR SF- 6'6 K. Hoskins(75) 87 3pt
SO PF- 6'9 D. Tamir(68) Freshman WAC of the year.
FR C- 7'2 J. Chase(76)

BENCH
SO PG-6'2 A. Logie (70) 88 speed 87 quicks is a Walkon
RS FR SG-6'2 E. Gadsen(70) 74 3pt 90 speed 82 quicks also a Walkon
SR SF-6'7 S. Murray(73) only a 69 3pt shooter but hit over 50% of his 3pt shots last season 36/70
FR PF- 6'10 K. Carmichael(71)
FR C-6'11 P. Chatfield(69) Has 90 standing dunk!!!!

The Broncos once again have 6 scholarships to offer. Coach Akpan and his staff hope to land 2 PG 2 SG 2 SF. However with such a young team and only 2 players graduating there is a chance that some scholarships will be saved for future years.

TOP 25 PRESEASON MEDIA POLL
#1 Gonzaga ??
#2 USC
#3 Florida St
#4 Arizona
#5 Maryland
#6 Missouri
#7 LSU
#8 Florida
#9 Mississippi St
#10 Georgia Tech
#11 Texas A&M
#12 South Carolina
#13 W. Virginia
#14 St Louis
#15 George Washington
#16 Villanova
#17 Oklahoma St
#18 Indiana
#19 Oregon
#20 St Joes
#21 Wisconsin
#22 Providence
#23 Illinois
#24 Boston College
#25 Seton Hall


Very Surprised to see Gonzaga ranked #1 also can't be Duke or UNC is not in the PreSeason poll. Boy the mighty have fallen

[Deuce2223]

again looks like people don't want to come to Boise and other schools around you. Wondering if that is going to get you angry enough to leave after a couple years with them until they start hauling in some people.

By the way whats up with no East coast teams???? Somone afraid of a little competition?


Like you at Miami OH, Boise doesn't really travel much to the East Coast. Coach Akpan recruiting area is pretty much Northwest, California and Texas. I try to schedule my games according to that.

I am not to worried about those guys turning me down. I was very happy with both Chase and Chatfield so its not biggy. Plus this opens up my scholarships this year for PG and SG which is what I had on my target list. I just hope I can land some of the 5* that have me top 3. Should be a battle.

Don't worry about me leaving. Right now I only have a handfull of schools that could pull me away and none are on the East Coast.:D

[vols21]

wow - Gonzaga the preseason #1!! that's impressive GO WEST COAST!! (3 of the top 5)

[Deuce2223]

BRONCOS vs MERCER IN 1ST ROUND

In the opening round Boise State had a rough start with Mercer. Trailing 27-34 at the half. The young Broncos would turn to someone who has been through the trenches. D. Tamir would led the Broncos back in the 2nd half to bring the Broncos within 1 with 20 seconds left. After a miss the Broncos would advance the ball and call a timeout. WIth 15 seconds left Coach Akpan drew up the play. Ariline took the inbound pass at the top of the key. Its a PG Loop. The pass goes to Murray on the wing. With 8 seconds left the ball is kicked down to Tamir for the final shot. Its up and in. The Broncos win a 61-60 and move on to play Montana in the next round. Tamir would finish with 17 pts 9 rebs winning the POG.

In Round 1 BYU pulls off the upset taking out #2 USC.

(1-0) BSU vs (1-0) MONTANA

The Broncos under a balanced team attack take a 41-34 lead into the half. In the 2nd half Coach Akpan would continue to preach the team attack and the Broncos answered with a 79-70 victory.

KEY PLAYER STATS

BOISE STATE
Mallory-16pts
Hoskins-15 pts 2/3 3pt
Carmichael 4pts 10 rebs
Tamir-11 pts 4 rebs

MONTANA
Macura 19 pts 10 reb
Craig 16 pts 11 reb

NEXT UP THE BRONCOS TAKE ON BYU IN THE CHAMPIONSHIP GAME.

[Deuce2223]

wow - Gonzaga the preseason #1!! that's impressive GO WEST COAST!! (3 of the top 5)


I was totally shocked to see it too, but their team is loaded, so I guess I can see why. They have 5 5* AA Mr BB that were Top 15 their respected years.

[Deuce2223]

BRONCOS PULL OUT THE WIN AND TAKE HOME THE HARDWARE

K. Hoskins showed he has the ability to take a came over as he scores 12 pts in the 1st half leading his Broncos to a 40-35 lead. In the 2nd half Hoskins would continue to drive and slash to the hoop scoring points at will. Hoskins finished with a game high 25 pts. R. Daniels has 21 pts and 12 rebounds in the loss for the Cougars.

OTHER KEY PLAYERS
Tamir-15 pts 5 reb
Chatfield 13pts(6 mins of play)

NEXT UP THE (3-0) BRONCOS RETURN HOME TO TAKE ON THE (3-1) IDAHO STATE BENGALS

[Deuce2223]

11,000 SHOW UP TO WATCH THE BRONCOS TAKE ON THE INSTATE BENGALS


The fans would get a pretty good 1st half showing as the Bengals stayed close 38-32. Howver after some half time adjustments, they had no answers for the Broncos offense being out scored 36-27. Final Score 74-59

KEY PLAYER STATS
Hoskins-13 pts 2/3 3pt
Carmichael-13pts 7 reb
Tamir-11 pts 8 reb
Murray 11 pts 5 reb 2/3 3pt

THE (4-0) BRONCOS NOW TAKE TO THE ROAD 1ST TOP IS (2-1) WASHINGTON

[Deuce2223]

RECRUITING UPDATE

Coach Akpan and his staff have targetted several 5* PG and are currently sitting at 100% but fighting with several top programs in the Pac-10 for the services. Next week will be a big week for the Broncos as they take on the Huskies and the (4-2) Wyoming Cowboys before inseason recruiting starts.

[Deuce2223]

BRONCOS AND HUSKIES BATTLE INTO OT.

The Broncos came out cold missing shot after shot and would head into the locker room down by 10 (30-20). However in the 2nd Half behind a balance attack and some full court D. The Broncos would work their way back. With the score tied and 42 seconds left on the clock, the Broncos would play for a quick shot in hopes of getting 2 possesions. However no one could work their way open and the Broncos were forced to hold the ball as long as possible before scoring. After a baseline jumper by Murray with 12 seconds left. The Huskies took the inbound and found 5* Lottery pick A. Goss in the paint for a quick 2 that tied the game. Still with 3 second left the Broncos inbounded to Ariline and a desperation 3 would miss its mark. The Broncos and Huskies would head to OT tied 66-66.

In the OT period the Huskies would continue to work the ball down low to Goss who was destorying the Broncos defense all night. However with the Broncos up by 2 with only 6 seconds left to play it was a wide open Sherrill that would be the hero tonight hitting a game winning 3 at the buzzer. Broncos lose 78-79

KEY PLAYER STATS

BOISE STATE
Ariline 16 pts 4/11 3pt
Mallory-14 pts 2/2 3pt
Murray-13 pts 6 reb
Tamir-10 pts 9 reb

WASHINGTON
Goss 25 pts 12 reb 2/5 3pt
Sherrill-9 pts 3/3 3pt


On a plus note. Mallory was able to hold 5* AA FR T. Coggins to 0 pts on 0-3 3pt shooting.

Next up the(4-1) Broncos head to take on (4-2) Wyoming

[Deuce2223]

BRONCOS EARN SPLIT ON THE ROAD WITH WIN OVER THE COWBOYS

The Broncos came out early and scored often taking a 11 pt lead into the locker room 51-40. In the 2nd half both team would trade baskets with each other and at the end RS FR E. Gadsen would hit back to back 3's to give the Broncos a 89-74 win.

KEY PLAYER STATS

BOISE STATE
Mallory-19 pts
Hoskins-12 pts 3/4 3pt
Tamir-17 pts 6 reb
Gadsen-12 pts 2/4 3pt
Chatfield-10 pts 6 reb

WYOMING
Myers-19 pts 3/5 3pt

Next up the Broncos head home to play a pair of Pac-10 opponents but before then Coach Akpan will join Idaho Sports Talk to discuss how In season recruiting went.

[Deuce2223]

IDAHO SPORTS TALK VIA ESPN RADIO

Host Jeff Caves and Mike Prater.

Caves-Hello and thanks once again for joining us and Coach Andy Akpan on Idaho Sports Talk on 1350 The Ticket via EPSN Radio. So Coach your off to a 5-1 start. Congrats. That was a tough loss to the Huskies.

Akpan-First let me say thanks. Going into the year I thought we would do prettty good. We got some nice matchups in the Polar Bear. Having BYU knock of USC was huge. I knew Washington would be tough Goss is a stud. I have to say though I was very impressed with how we handled Coggins.

Prater-Looking ahead to next week what do you think about the Cougars and Beavers?

Akpan-Well both teams are off to hot starts like us. Washington State is currently (7-1) and Oregon State is (5-1) I am hoping for a split against them and hopefully a win over Sac State who is currently (2-5). If we can do that then we will be sitting pretty good.

Caves-So Coach I got to ask. How did it feel having 11,000 at the home opener against Idaho State? What kind of crowds do you expect this week?

Akpan-Having a crowd like taht really pumps up the team. I have already been told we are sold out for all 3 games this week. So it should be a great time. Hopefully we can reward the crowd with some free Burritos from Taco Bell :)

Prater-So Coach I got to know. Going into the year you had 6 scholarships to offer and a pretty big hole at PG and SF next year with the graduation of Ariline and Murray. How are things going so far.

Akpan-Well 1st let me say. I don't feell like we have a huge hole at PG or SF for that matter. Those are our 2 spots with the least amount of depth but overall I am very happy with who we have returning. Logie and Gadsen are both walkons who really do deserve scholarships for the way they are playing and both will battle hard for the starting PG position next season. I am also very pleased with K. Hoskins at SF. Orginally a SG he has adjusted very well to the SF spot and his 3pt shooting skills makes him very dangerous.

Caves-So does that mean you are not going after PG??

Akpan-No we are I just like giving Mike a hard time. :) We actually did target several PG dating all the way back to last year. Our #1 Target was C. Pitta who was the #6 overall and #2 PG in the nation and MR. BB out of California. We thought we had him ready to go next season as he was %100 sure he wanted to be a Bronco but at the last min switched up his decision and signed with Cal. Our #2 Target was S. Henning the MR. BB from Utah who was ranked #15 overall and #6 PG. Coach Dockery told me is was 100% sure he too wanted to be a Bronco however when it came to signing day he too switch it up and signed with USC. Our #3 target F. Richard was the #1 PF and #17 overall but he too would end up picking the Trojans over us. So with all 6 scholarships still to offer we were down to our 4th Target. E. Roy the #9 overall and #5 PG who also was the Mr. BB from AZ had us at %96 but we trailed instate Arizona. In the end that would be who he would sign with.

Prater-Wow 0-4. Thats not a good start. When do we get the good news. Who did sign with the Broncos???

Akpan:o Honestly Mike we didn't land a single player. :( I am pretty :confused: right now. At this point the staff is totally scrambling. Our goals are still a PG and a SF and we also hope to find another SG who can hit from the outside but at this time we can't release any info that might help other teams swoop in and grab our guys. We still have high hopes that we can still land a Top 10 class.

Caves-Wow. Their must be so decent talent left out there if you think you can land a Top 10 class after losing out on those 4 guys.:confused:

Akpan-There is. Besides if you remember Boise State in the past and Texas Southern were actually never built with 5* talent. So that is what we are going to do. Concentrate on some 4* guys who we feel will give us 4 solid years of playing time

Prater-So Coach looking around the country who out there really impressed you with some early signings.

Akpan Well right now I would say Providence is running away with it. They landed the #16,20 and 24 overall players. Maryland also had a solid class landing the #25,29,36 and a 5* JC transfer. Villanova also had a great class landing the #12,13,49 and #74 and of course you can't leave out LSU who land the #1 and #10 players in the nation.

Caves-Who was the #1 player this year?? I must be out of it when it comes to recruiting.

Akpan-The #1 player this year was Oliver Cason a 6'10 C who was the Mr. BB from Lousinia. So signing with instate LSU was huge for him. Rumors are the Coaching staff is already calling him Baby Shaq.

Prater-So Coach who in the WAC impressed you?

Akpan Well Mike to be honest the entire conference did very well. I would say Utah St once again probably had the best class though.

Utah St-1 4* C #96/4, 3* PF Mr BB from MT who was the #119/16 and 2-3* SG #172 and #321.

Fresno- 2 3* 225,429
Nevada 2 3* 142,391
Hawaii 3 3* #137 the Mr. BB from HI and the #194,245. They also signed a 7'0 2* C.
San Jose St 1 3* PG ranked 328/100/
New Mexico 2 3* 445,448

Caves-Wow looks like you got some tough competion coming in next year.

Akpan-Yeah but like I said we will be fine.

Prater-Well good luck Coach. Looking forward to seeing how things turn out.

Caves-Well that is it once again. Please join us next show after Boise State wraps up the non-conference schedule with USC on New Years Day. We will discuss the Top 25, Mid Major and take a look the 1st half stats for the Broncos team and players. Maybe Coach Akpan will give us some recruiting news at that time.

Akapn-Thanks for having me agian guys I look forward to it, and if I feel comfortable with the guys and their decisions I will release some recruiting info.

[CincyFan]

I just want you to know that karma is a *itch coach Apkan

[Deuce2223]

I just want you to know that karma is a *itch coach Apkan

Not sure what that means unless you are talking about my recruiting woes...

[CincyFan]

i sent you a PM which sorta is or isn't what the quote is about. All love is what I got for u Coach Derazon and Akpan

[Deuce2223]

BRONCOS STAY UNDEFEATED AT HOME WIN 3 STRAIGHT

In the 1st game the Broncos took on the Cougars of Washington St. Both teams shot the ball well in the 1st half, but it was actually in the 2nd half that the Broncos couldn't miss from beyond the arc and they would run away 76-68 On the night the Broncos shot 11/18 from 3pt

KEY PLAYER STATS
BOISE STATE
Ariline 14 pts 8 asst 4/6 3pt
Tamir 12 pts 7 reb
Murray 13 pts
Mallory 12 pts 5 reb 4 asst 2/2 3pt

WASHINGTON STATE
Cooley 18 pts
Henderson 13 pts 9 reb
Skeeter 13 pts 9 reb
Spencer 12 pts 7 asst(JR Mr. BB from Boise) signed the year before Coach Akpan took over.

2nd Game Boise State-86 Oregon State -51

Not really much of a game. The Broncos were hot from the outside once again hitting 9/14 3pt. Hoskins lead the way with 21 pts 4/7 3pt and Murray had 13 pts 2/3 3pt

3rd and Final game of the home stand

You would think after beat 2 Pac-10 opponents that the Broncos would have no problems going up against Sac State of the Big Sky. Well that wasn't the case. Both team shot very well but the Broncos would take a 32-31 lead into the half. Coach Akpan could be heard yelling from the locker room all the way up in the nose bleed of Taco Bell Arena.

In the 2nd half both teams continued to trade baskets and it looked like the fans might be getting some extra time for their money tonight. However with 20 second left Sac State actually would take a missed shot and head down court to set up for the winning shot. Coach Akpan called a Timeout. Akpan Listen up they are going to hold it for the final shot. I rather you try and foul and lets either hope for a miss FT or if not then we can go down and try for a 3 for the win..

Well the 3pt would not be needed. The Broncos fouled Newill once he took the inbound and he would miss the first of his 2 FT. After making the 2nd, he would put his team up by 1. But the Broncos still had 19 seconds left on the clock. After advancing the ball up court they would take their final timeout. The play was drawn up and Murray would inbound the play to Ariline, back to Murray 12 seconds left 10-9-8-7-6 in the paint to Chatfield, pump fake 4-3-2 shot is up and in, the buzzer sounds and the Broncos squeak out the 76-75 win.

KEY PLAYER STATS
BOISE STATE
Murray 18 pts 4/7
Carmichael 16 pts 9 reb
Chatfield 16 pts 5 reb game winner

SAC STATE
Clemons 17 pts 6 reb
Newill 12 pts 4/12 FT

NEXT UP THE (8-1) BRONCOS HIT THE ROAD TO TAKE ON #9 (8-1) OREGON DUCKS

[blue_apocalypse]

Good job by the Hornets! I was surprised to see them challenge you like that especially when you were coming off wins over Washington and Washington St. Glad you won..but glad to see the Hornets make a stand too.

[Deuce2223]

Good job by the Hornets! I was surprised to see them challenge you like that especially when you were coming off wins over Washington and Washington St. Glad you won..but glad to see the Hornets make a stand too.

Yeah I was shocked as well. It wasn't like we wern't hitting shots. Its that we just sucked at Defense tonight. It we play like that against Oregon and Texas Southern next week we will be toast.

[Deuce2223]

BRONCOS CONTINUE TO STRUGGLE ON D LOSE 2 ON THE ROAD

After barley escaping with a win agasint Sac State, Coach Akpan knew it would take a much better defensive performance to beat Oregon and Texas Southern on the road.

In the first game Oregon took it right at the Broncos taking a early 23-8 led and a 46-23 lead into the half. In the 2nd half Oregon would decide that with such a huge lead they too would stop playing defense and have a old fashion shootout. However with the lack of defense from the Broncos would keep them from making any type of dent in the lead. Final Score 99-72

KEY PLAYER STATS
BOISE STATE
Tamir-16 pts
Ariline-15 pts 2/8 3pt

OREGON
Leonard-20pts 4/8 3pt
Demanby 19 pts 7 reb

In the 2nd game of the week. The Broncos traveled to Houston to take on Coach Akpan former team the Texas Southern Tigers. Again not much defensive was played and the Broncos fell behind once again 50-30 in the 1st half.

The 2nd half would not be any better unless again you want to look at the offensive side of things. The Broncos would outscore the 45-44. Tigers But still lose 95-74

KEY PLAYER STATS

BOISE STATE
Hoskins-14 pts 2/6 3pt
Chase-20 pts 8 reb
Ariline-6pts 7 asst 2/7 3pt
Mallory-5pts 0/5 3pt

TEXAS SOUTHERN
Forth 16 pts 10 asst
Zaharias-22 pts 7 asst 3/5 3pt
Igneski 17 pts 2/3 3pt
Cisse-11 pts

The Tigers scored 70 of their 95 points from the paint as they were killing the Broncos full court press. They also were 5/8 from 3pt.

Next up the (10-3) Boise State returns home to Taco Bell Arena to face the #10 (10-2) Gonzaga Bulldogs

[rjsuperfly66]

If you dont defeat the Zags I am going to be very disappointed. haha

[Deuce2223]

SANTA DELIVERS COACH AKPAN A VERY NICE PRESENT

A sellout crowd of 12,400 showed up to watch the Broncos take on the Bulldogs on a Christmas afternoon. It appeared that the week off didn't help the Broncos much in the defensive side of the ball as they once again fall behind 32-43. Coach Dezaron would make a halftime appearence in the locker room though to help boost the player moral. After a butt chewing from Coach Akpan it appeared this was what the players were needing as the they came out explosive in the 2nd half. outscoring the Zags 50-39. If you are doing the math at home yes folks thats right we are tied 82-82 and heading to overtime.

In O.T. the Broncos would continue their offensive performance outscoring the Zags 28-16 earning the 110-98 victory.

PLAYER STATS

BOISE STATE
Ariline-0pts 8 asst 6 steals
Mallory-25 pts 5 asst 3/3 3pt 8/8 FT
Hoskins-22 pts 6 asst 4 steals 3/6 3pt
Tamir-27 pts 6 reb 2 blks
Chase-13 pts 7 reb
Chatfield-11 pts(3 mins of PT)

GONZAGA
Scott 17 pts 11 asst
Simon-19 pts 6 reb 7 asst 5 steals 3/3 3pt
Washburn-17 pts
Barlett-18 pts 2/2 3pt
Mahlaman-12 pts

The 4* Mr. BB from Oregon F. Bittie who stiffed the Broncos in the 1st week of recruiting last year was a DNP for the Game. The Zags are loaded with probably one of the top 5 teams in the nation. Simon is a 5* AA picked to go in next year lottery. Mahlaman is the same and picked to go in the top 5. They also have another player Hacker who didn't to much against us, but he too is projected to be a top pick. They also have another 5* AA So SG Sayman who was a DNP.

NEXT UP THE (11-3) BRONCOS TRAVEL TO HOLLYWOOD TO TAKE ON THE #8 (10-3) USC TROJANS.

[blue_apocalypse]

I have to see that game against USC! I'm willing to get stuck in traffic for two hours to go see Coach Akpan's Broncos

[Deuce2223]

I have to see that game against USC! I'm willing to get stuck in traffic for two hours to go see Coach Akpan's Broncos


Traffic shouldn't be to bad. The Game is on New Years Day and its a early start, so most people will probably be hung over from drinking the night before. I will leave tickets at willcall for ya.

[Deuce2223]

BRONCOS CELEBRATE THE NEW YEAR WITH A HUGE WIN.

The D finally showed up limiting the Trojans to 33 pts in the 1st half. The Broncos would head into the locker room up by 11. Coach West of the San Jose Spartans was in the crowd. Its a well known fact that he and Coach Akpan are friends but some would wonder the wisdom of letting him sit behind the bench. The Broncos and Spartans square off on Friday at San Jose.

In the 2nd half the Trojans would come out firing 3's and would pull within 6 but after a quick timeout the Broncos were back at it playing tight D and trading baskets back and forth. Fr. H Mallory was the hero once again scoring 19 pts and hitting 2/2 3pt leading the Broncos to a 89-82 win and their 2nd consective victory over Top 10 opponents. This victory was even sweeter for Coach Akpan being how he had 2 5* AA choose the Trojans over the Broncos earlier in the year.

PLAYER STATS

BOISE STATE
Tamir-13 pts 8 reb
Chase-12 pts 7 reb 3blks
Chatfield-15 pts

USC
Hogan-19 pts 4/6 3pt
May-18 pts 3/4 3pt
Causwell-15 pts 2/3 3pt

Overall the Trojans hit 11/25 3pt and the Broncos hit 6/12

NEXT UP ANOTHER EPISODE OF IDAHO SPORTS TALK WITH TOP 25,MID SEASON STATS,WAC STANDINGS, AND RECRUITING UPDATES. BEFORE HEADING BACK TO CALIFORNIA ON FRIDAY TO TAKE ON THE (7-4) SAN JOSE SPARTANS

[jjredick4]

nice win against USC

[Deuce2223]

TOP 25
Coaches Poll in [] Media Poll #

[2]#1 Florida St 12-0
[5]#2 Texas A&M 10-0
[6]#3 W. Virginia 10-0
[1]#4 LSU 12-0
[4]#5 G. Washington 13-0
[9]#6 Arizona 11-1
[7]#7 Oregon 12-1(Beat BSU)
[3]#8 Florida 13-1
[15]#9 Stanford 13-0
[11]#10 Villanova 12-2
[10]#11 Gonzaga 10-3(Lost to BSU)
[14]#12 UAB 11-0
[13]#13 Saint Joes 9-1
[18]#14 USC 10-4(Lost to BSU)
[12]#15 Miss St 12-2
[8]#16 Oklahoma St 10-1
[16]#17 Geogia Tech 11-2
[19]#18 Indiana 11-2
[21]#19 Missouri 8-3
[17]#20 Tennessee 10-1
[23]#21 Miami FL 13-2
[22]#22 Air Force 10-2
[NA]#23 Louisville 10-3
[24]#24 UCLA 11-1
[25]#25 Saint Louis 10-2

Seton Hall 9-2 is ranked #23 in the Coaches Poll.
West Coast is representing with 3 teams in the Top 10 and 7 in the Top 25.

MID MAJOR POLL

#1 Gonzaga 10-3
#2 Utah St 9-3
#3 UALR 14-2
#4 Old Dominon 11-3
#5 Boise State 12-3
#6 Texas Southern 8-4
#7 Fresno St 10-4
#8 Nevada 7-3
#9 Pepperdine 10-4
#10 San Fransico 9-4

#14 Cleveland St 8-4
#17 Rider 7-5
#24 UC Irvine 12-5
#25 San Jose State 7-4

12 of the Top 25 Mid Majors are playing in the West Coast :) Again looks like the West is representing.

WAC STANDINGS BEFORE CONFERENCE PLAY
BOISE STATE 12-3
FRESNO STATE 10-4 (Beat Gonzaga, Lost to Miss St,Air Force,UC Irvine)
NEVADA 7-3(No big wins, Lost to Gonzaga,Michigan,Montana)
UTAH ST 9-3(No big wins, Lost to Indiana and Syracuse)
SAN JOSE ST 7-4(Beat UNLV,Washington Lost to Arizona State,Eastern Washington,TCU)
IDAHO 6-6(Beat Clemson, Lost to Gonzaga,Oregon St,UNLV)
LA TECH 4-8(No big wins, Lost to Oregon,Arizona)
HAWAII 4-8(No big wins, Lost to Oregon,Eastern Washington,Utah,Pepperdine)
NEW MEXICO ST 6-8(Beat Texas Tech, Lost to Tennessee,Notre Dame,and twice to instate rival New Mexico)

BOISE STATE TEAM AND PLAYER STATS

TEAM
PPG-81.1 #2 WAC
RPG-31.6 #7 WAC
APG-14.1 #3 WAC
SPG-9.0 #1 WAC
BPG-4.6 #2 WAC
.466 FG% #1 WAC
.373 3PT% #1 WAC
.676 FT% #4 WAC

PLAYER STATS.
Tamir 12.5 ppg 5.6 rpg
Hoskins 12.1 ppg 2.7 rpg 2.3 apg 1.3 spg 34% 3pt
Mallory 10.1 ppg 2.9 rpg 3.1 apg 39% 3pt
Murray 8.9 ppg 3.7 rpg 41% 3pt
Ariline 8.7 ppg 4.1 apg 32% 3pt
Chatfield 8.3 ppg 4.1 rpg
Chase 7.8 ppg 5.2 rpg 1.7 bpg
Carmichael 5.9 ppg 4.4 rpg
Gadsen 6.2 ppg 52% 3pt (13/25)
Logie-5.0 ppg

[blue_apocalypse]

Nice win! Not much of a crowd there though..I think everybody was over at the Rose Bowl

[vols21]

solid win over the Trojans!! We took a road trip up the 5 to catch the game - it was a much better contest than the Rose Bowl!!!
nice party at the Viper Room after the game

[Deuce2223]

Nice win! Not much of a crowd there though..I think everybody was over at the Rose Bowl


Yeah I sorta thought that was a weird day to play it but according to the ticket off they did a 2-1 deal were if you wanted to skip out on the tailgating you could come watch the BBall game. :confused:

Don't worry though your attendence was noted and I think you will like the results.




Radio Show will be later tonight unless I get some more free time at work.

[Deuce2223]

IDAHO SPORTS TALK WITH CAVES AND PRATER

Caves-Once again we are joined by Coach Andy Akpan of the (12-3) Boise State Broncos.

Akpan-Thanks again for having me.

Prater-Well Coach I got to ask the question that most of us what to know. How is recruiting going? Can you give us any updates?

Akpan-Well I can't go to much into actual names and whatnot beause I don't want any recruiting violations or maybe perk another teams interest. However the name that I think everybody already knows is Larry Mclaren. Larry is the Mr. BB from Austin TX and the #7 overall player in the nation. He is also the #3 PG. Larry has been apart of my target list for 4 year now going back to my days at Texas Southern. Orginally I though he was going to make a committment in early season but Louisville jumped in at the last moment and now it seems like we are going back and forth every week. He has us at 100% but it must really be 99.9. Like I said one week we are #1 the next we are #2 Texas A&M is also a darkhorse canidate. They havn't offered a scholarship yet, but I know he is somewhat attracted to playing close to home. I have a feeling we won't know anything until after the season. Hopefully with the ability to come in and start his Freshman year and a good run in the NCAA he will choose us.

Caves-Is there anyone else you can talk about?

Akpan-Well besides McLaren, we are also very close to locking up 2 more players 1 is another PG out of California and the other is a SF from Houston Texas. After that things are still up in the air. We are looking at a JC SG out of Cali also.

Prater-Okay well thats only 3 maybe 4 scholarships. What is the plan for the other 2.

Akpan-Well unless we find someone we feel real good about, chances are we will probably just carry them over to next year. We are only losing Ariline and Murray, with everyone else SO and FR. I would like to maybe hold off a year in signing some guys so I can get this roster more balanced. Its alot of work to go out and have to sign 6 guys every year.

Caves-Alright well lets move away from recruiting. Coach you have had some great success early on this year. Whats your feeling with the TOP 25 Media an Coaches Poll?

Akpan-Coach Dezaron taught me along time ago to not really care to much about either polls. Boise State has had a hard time earning the respect of both the Media and Coaches for years. This year is no different. My goal is to just keep winning games and hopefully come selection sunday I will be sitting in a good spot.

Prater-Hows it feel to have 5 teams ranked in the Mid Major Poll from the WAC.

Akpan-Its good. It shows that the WAC is finally starting to play some tough opponents. You look at the schedules that we all played and very few of us are taking the easy road.

Caves-Last game at USC you left tickets for Coach West of San Jose. Do you really think this was a wise decision with your game coming up on Friday against him.

Akpan-Maybe. Maybe not. Coach West is a great coach. Personally I don't think that he needs a scouting game to be able to beat us. He has that ability even if I didn't invite him.

Prater-So who is the team to beat this year in the WAC. Utah St or Nevada?

Akpan-Well neither team really had any big wins. They both played some tough teams though. Looking at the rosters I would have to say Utah St. Miles is a absolute stud and Willie is probably the best big man in the conference. I am happy to have Chase,Chatfield,Carmichael and Tamir though I think with those guys we will be able to shut him down.

Caves-Rumors where the 4 Horseman was going to come out of retirement, but I havn't see much of it whats up?

Akpan-Well you have to remember the orginal 4 Horseman had 2 7'0 footers along with Hayes at 6'11 and Shannon at 6'10. Tamir is a little small to be considered a Horseman. We thought about going with the Triple Towers but so far marketing hasn't printed out anything. Maybe they are waiting to see if we land another bigman at the end of the season or maybe they are hoping Tamir will grow :)

Prater-I didn't think you said you were after another bigman.

Akpan-You never know.:cool: Sometimes they just slip through the cracks.;) Orginally Chatfield and Chase were not apart of our plans last year.

Caves-So it appears that you guys are shooting the 3 ball better this year

Akpan-We are. Last year Arline was really our only consistant threat but this year Hoskins has given us another choice and Gadsen the RS Walkon also has hit alot of big shots. Murray and Mallory also will dial it up at times but neither is really our most consistant shooter. I would say Gadsen has been a nice surprise and if we fail to land McLaren or the PG out of Cali I would have no problems turning over the starting job to him next season.

Prater-One last question. How did it feel to go in an lose against Texas Southern.

Akpan-I will be honest that one stung pretty bad. I knew they would be tough and I felt like those guys desereve a chance to play against me on their homecourt, but after the game I told the guys I was proud of them and what they accomplished last year(making it to the 2nd round) but that I was done playing the Tigers until those guys have left. Next year I hope to replace them on the Schedule with Texas,Texas Tech or Texas A&M.

Caves Well looks like that is it for today. Please feel free to email the show with questions for Coach Akpan and we will be sure to get to them on the next show.

[Deuce2223]

BRONCOS LOSE TO THE SPARTANS. BOOSTER AND UNIVERSTIY QUESTION COACH AKPAN'S DECISION.

Trailing 22-28 at the half, many people including some of the Broncos' players :think: Akpan's decision to give Coach West tickets right behind the bench at the USC game. Well that:confused: turned to anger as the Broncos failed to find a game plan whtat would work. Final Score 67-54.

Afer the game we caught up with Coach Akpan.

Reporter-So Coach do you wish you would've done things different now? Seems like Coach West had you scouted perfectly.

Akpan-You guys are taking something so little and blowing it way out of the water. Coach West has a good team and seems like everyone forgets that the Broncos have a target on our back. Everyone wants to beat us.

Reporter-So what about your players and the boosters. Rumors are they are not happy with your decision?

Akpan:rolleyes: Really well guess that is their problem, because I plan on doing nothing different. In fact I just got off the phone with the ticket office at Taco Bell and bought one of the new luxury boxes we are installing. I plan on making it available to all of my Coaching friends and that includes Coach West. So with that said I think we are done here.

Reporter-Okay well good luck then.:p

NEXT UP THE BRONCOS (12-4) RETURN HOME TO TAKE ON 5(5-9) LA TECH.

[Deuce2223]

UNIVERSITY SUSPEND COACH AKPAN FOR 3 GAMES

The University is looking into the giving away of tickets to Coach West. Its not against the rule to give away tickets but the University frowns on giving them to Coaches especially those who are in the same conference. Coach Granger will coach the next 3 games all awy games against La Tech,Hawaii and New Mexico St. Coach Akpan will return for the home game against Fresno State

Many wonder if this stance by the University might lead to a Coaching change at the end of the season.???

[Deuce2223]

BEN MALLERS RUMOR CENTERAL

NCAA BASKETBALL

Several Coaches are on the hotseat this year. Tim Miles at Colorado State,Greg McDermott at Iowa State, Tom Crean at Marquette and D. Calloway at Wake Forest are on in danger of losing their jobs. Several other coaches are hinting at possible retirement including UNLV's Lon Kruger.

Coach Akpan of Boise State had been rumored to already have 1 foot out the door and after this whole ticket scandal, many fell his tenure in Boise could be short lived. Here is a quote from Coach Akpan on the coaching situation.

Akpan"Personally I love Boise. I played my college ball here,I love the school, the Arena, and I love my players. However right now I am not in agreement with certain school officials and boosters. Will I leave at the end of the year. Is it a possiblity. Well yes it is. I would love to return home and Coach for the Running Rebs. Has Coach Kruger told me of his plans. That I will not answer. However always willing to throw some gas on the fire. I will say that I have taken severel phone calls to the availibilty to both my assistant coaches. So there is a chance that next year Boise State will be looking to replace the entire staff, and I might be looking for 2 new assistants. I am very proud of Coach Dockery and Coach Granger I wish them well

[blue_apocalypse]

I wasn't even scouting at the game! I didn't have my notebook and the USC fans were yelling at me for wearing blue and orange so I didn't even hear your plays in the huddle! I've released an official statement on the subject and in no way did my prescence at the Boise State game effect the outcome of our game against them. I'm disappointed that the Athletic Director at Boise State is considering disciplinary measures.

[Deuce2223]

I wasn't even scouting at the game! I didn't have my notebook and the USC fans were yelling at me for wearing blue and orange so I didn't even hear your plays in the huddle! I've released an official statement on the subject and in no way did my prescence at the Boise State game effect the outcome of our game against them. I'm disappointed that the Athletic Director at Boise State is considering disciplinary measures.

I appreciate the phone call you made. I tried explaining it to the A.D. Also even pointed out the fact you were in team colors, but the problem is he is in his 1st year and wasn't who hired me. I am getting the feeling like he wants to bring in his own guy even though I have 2 more years on my contract and according to most of the boosters and school president my job security could not be any higher. Guess we will see how the rest of the year plays out.

[Deuce2223]

Broncos go 3-0 in Coach Akpans absence. Great coaching by Dockery and Granger only increases their appeals as several more schools have contacted them about head coaching positions next year.

BSU vs LA Tech Final Score 72-67

BOISE STATE
Arline was POG with 19 pts 3/6 3pt
Chase added 15 pts 7 reb
Chatfield 12 pts off the bench.

LA TECH
Taylor 20pts 2/7 3pt
Bodden 10pts 11 reb
BSU vs Hawaii Final Score 87-76

BOISE STATE
Murray 20pts 2/3 3pt
Carmichael 12 pts
Chase 10pts 5 reb 4 blks
Tamir-15 pts 6 reb

HAWAII
Ndiye 20 pts 6 reb

BSU vs New Mexico St Final Score 79-76

BOISE STATE
Ariline-14 pts 3/5 3pt
Tamir 10pt 7 reb
Murray 10 pts 9 reb
Chase 12 pts 5 reb

NEW MEXICO ST
Cloverdale 16 pts 3/6 3pt
Minnifield 15 pts 7 reb

[Deuce2223]

BRONOCS BARLEY SURVIVE IN COACH AKPANS RETURN

(15-4)BSU VS(12-7) FRESNO ST
After going 3-0 on the road trip the Broncos return home to Taco Bell with Coach Akpan at the helm. However the team struggled but luckly so did the Bulldogs of Fresno State. The Broncos would trail 34-35 going into the half but Fr P. Chatfield would hit a last min bucket at the buzzer and the Bronocos pulled off 65-64 win.

Not a single player scored in double digits for the Broncos. As everyone decided to have their worst shooting performance of their lives with Soph Sensation D. Tamir leading the way 2-10 FG and SR PG A. Ariline 1-8 FG 0-2 3pt

NEXT UP THE BRONCOS TAKE ON INSTATE RIVAL (7-11) IDAHO

[Deuce2223]

BRONCOS TAKE DOWN THE VANDALS.

The Vandals black hole was in full force tonight chants of we wanted better seats we want better seats were heard throughout the arena. However the problem with this was it just intensfied a already heated rivalary. The Broncos would head into the half up 42-34. In the 2nd half the Broncos continued to pour it on with a array of offense from the entire team. with 2 mins left. Coach Akpan finally let up and pulled the starters. The Vandals would make a late run but still fan 80-65 at home. Fans were left to go and drown their sorrows in the after game parties

BOISE STATE
Chatfield 15pts
Chase 13 pts 7 reb
Tamir 12 pts 11 reb
Mallory 12 pts 6 asst 2/3 3pt

IDAHO
Norwood 13 pts 4 reb
Waters 11 pts

BRONCOS BLOWN-OUT ON THE ROAD @ UTAH ST

The Broncos and Aggies played a pretty tight 1st half. The Broncos would trail by 6 points down 45-51. However in the 2nd half the team would fall apart as they could not stop the duo of Miles and Willie. Final Score 75-99

BOISE STATE
Ariline 15 pts 3/6 3pt
Mallory 6 pts 8 asst 2/4 3pt
Tamir-13 pts 6 reb
Chase-12 pts 6 reb
Murray 13 pts 2/3 3pt

UTAH STATE
Miles 25 pts 3/4 3pt
Willie 24 pts 8 reb
Bridgewater 13 pts
Stanley 12 pts

Other interesting info
Victoriono the Mr. BB from MT who stiff the Broncos for the Aggies scored 6 pts 1/1 3pt in 7 mins.
Last yr Mr BB from Idaho A. Peterson scored 0pts in 7mins of P.T.


NEXT UP THE (17-5) BRONCOS RETURN HOME FOR A RARE 4 GAME HOMESTAND. THEIR 1ST MATCHUP AGAINST COACH WEST AND THE SAN JOSE SPARTANS(14-6)

[Deuce2223]

BRONCOS REBOUND FROM LOSS WITH 4 STRAIGHT WINS AT HOME.

BSU VS SJSU

In the rematch of Coach Akpan and Coach West. Controversy would show up again. This time in the form of Coach Akpan's decision to bench his starters after building a 13 point 1st half lead. 33-20 With the 2nd team in the Spartans would ralley back pulling within 4 before Akpan would insert the starters. The Spartan would continue their run actually taking a 2 pts lead into the final seconds. Coach Akpan would call a timeout and set up the play. It another PG Loop. Inbound to Airline, back to Murray, down to Tamir and the shot was up and in. Final score 65-64.

After the game reporters tried to catchup to Coach Akpan but he was a no-show at the teams press conference. In a statement released by the team Coach Akpan has made it clear he is no longer doing post game intereviews. His only access to the press will be in the form of Idaho Sports Talk with Caves and Prater.

BSU VS HAWAII Final Score 79-74

The shooting woos continue for Hoskins as he is 0-6 beyond the arc but he did finish with 13 pts breaking his 9 game streak under double digits. D. Tamir continues his impressive So season with 19 pts and 7 rebounds.

BSU VS LA TECH Final Score 79-72 OT

Down by 5 going into the half the Broncos would rally behind the play of Tamir and Ariline to tie the game. In the overtime period Tamir would take over showing that he is by far the team MVP. He would finish with a game high 28 pts 12 rebs 3 blks. Sr PG A. Ariline added 10 pts and 7 assist in the win.

BSU VS NEW MEXICO ST Final Score 90-72

T. Minnifield would try his best to lead the Aggies to victory scoring 25 pts and grabbing 7 rebounds but it wasn't enough as the Broncos were once again led by Tamir and Ariline and got great support of the bench from Murray.
BOISE STATE
Tamir-16 pts 8 reb
Ariline-16 pts 6 asst 3/4 3pt
Murray 12 pts 3/3 3pt

NEXT UP THE (21-5) BRONCOS TAKE TO THE ROAD TO FACE (16-6) NEVADA AND (14-12) FRESNO STATE BEFORE RETURNING HOME FOR A 3 GAME HOME STAND INCLUDING A REMATCH WITH THE WOLFPACK ON SENIOR NIGHT

[Deuce2223]

I finished the season last night. Some very interesting things happend. Looking forward to posting them, but I am heading out of town for 4 days be back Monday Night. Hopefully I will have time to post some stuff. Hope everyone enjoys their weekend.

Again if anyone is interested in posting questions for the Radio show. Send them in Coach Akpan will have 1 more show before Conference Tourney and 1 after the season to recap the year.

[jjredick4]

i need to get outta town myself, who knows when that'll happen though

[blue_apocalypse]

Have a good vacation. I look forward to reading about the end of the season

[Vinsane187]

I too finished my season, just waiting to find time to do the write ups. Probably first thing tommorow morning after I get woke up enough to pick up the sticks. Congrats on the season so far coach, keep it up.

[Deuce2223]

Have a good vacation. I look forward to reading about the end of the season

Wish it was a vacation. I work as a high school youth pastor in my evenings and weekends. Every year we do a outreach event where 400+ students drive to a small town in Oregon. We have people from Montana,Washington,Idaho,Oregon. This year was year 10 of event. Its alot of fun, but the problem is you get no sleep especially when you learn that boys from another group are trying to sneak over the hotel were the girls from my group where sleeping. I think I might have got 4 hrs of sleep last night.:( But hey I got to put the butt whooping down on some high school boys :box:


Anyways. Hoping to get everything caught up once I get settle back in.

[Deuce2223]

BRONOCS WIN 3 STRAIGHT ROAD GAMES HEAD HOME TO FINISH OUT YEAR VS THE AGGIES AND WOLFPACK

BSU VS NEVADA Final Score 88-86

Airline was huge for the Broncos leading the team with 21 pts and hitting 5/8 3pt. Tamir continues to be a force for the Bronocos outplaying his (69) rating every game. He would add 18 pts 6 reb 3 blks in the win.

BSU VS FRESNO ST Final Score 84-77

Once again the Broncos were led by a amazing display of shooting from Sr. A. Airline. Airline again led the team with 21 pts and 5/6 3pt shooting. Giving him a amazing 10/13 3pt streak, however that streak would end on a sour note with 1 min left the play Airline goes down hard on a foul breaking his arm. Trainers say he will miss the next month of play, possibily ending his college career unless the Broncos make a huge run in the tourney.

Playing without Airline, Sr S. Murray was inserted into the starting lineup at SF with Hoskins moving to SG and Mallory to the PG. The Broncos will now be running with a 9 man rotation the rest of the year.

BSU VS IDAHO Final Score 80-68

Mallory stepped up big playing the PG position scoring 14 pts and dishing out 9 assist. D. Tamir continues his solid play with 17 pts and 8 reb.

THE (24-5) BRONCOS HEAD HOME TO TACO BELL TO TAKE ON (22-5) UTAH ST.

[Deuce2223]

BRONOCS LOSE 2 TOUGH ONES AT HOME HEAD INTO CONFERENCE TOURNEY ON A LOSING STREAK.

BSU VS UTAH ST Final Score 113-112 OT

So Sensation D. Tamir would do everything possible to try and give the Bronocs the win scoring 35 pts,12 rebs, 5 blks. H. Mallory also played well in his role at the point scoring 9 pts, grabbing 8 rebounds and dishing out 9 assist. However it was the defense that was lacking tonight as the Aggies got huge cames from Miles 22pts 4/9 3pt and Willie-23 pts 8 reb.

BSU VS NEVADA Final Score 55-53

This was by far the toughest loss of the year. Playing at home and it was Senior Night for S. Murray and A. Ariline. With Ariline out and Murray already in the starting lineup. Coach Akpan ran his normal starting lineup. Neither team could buy a shot in this one. This was by far the weirdest game I ever played. D. Tamir normally a double double machine scored 5 pts on 5/11 FT he was O-5 from the field. Fr C. Chase also struggle with his ability to score down low finishing with 5pts and was 1/11 FG. S. Murray led the team with 11pts and 7 reb.

BRONCOS FINISH THE SEASON AT 27-7.

RADIO SHOW TO FOLLOW.

[Deuce2223]

IDAHO SPORTS TALK WITH CAVES AND PRATER

Caves-Welcome back everyone. We have alot to talk about today so lets get right to it. Coach Akpan congrats on the year.

Akpan-Thanks Jeff. Overall I am happy with what happened. But I must say I am very sad with some of the things that happened. 1)The whole ticket scandal and suspension. 2) Losing Airline was rough, Playing with 9 guys is not what I had hoped for going into tourney play. 3) Losing those last 2 games was like getting stabbed into the heart. 4) Not landing a single player in inseason recruiting. 5) All of the coaching rumors.

Prater-So Coach lets start with the ticket scandal. I heard to you purchased a luxury box for friends and family for home games. Does this include fellow coaches? Also have you changed your policy regarding road games?

Akpan Well Mike. As far as home games go. My box is available to all of my fellow coaching friends and road games I will continue to offer tickets to anyone willing to come and support me and my team on the road. Personally I don't care if it helps them with scouting or whatever because personally I feel I can beat anyone anywhere no matter how well they know my team.

Caves Coach next year do you plan to run with a larger team. Many have questioned your decision to only go with 10 now with the injury to Airline it looks like you will have some tough decisions on what to do with your bench.

Akpan-Well Jeff that will all depend on who we bring in next year. Right now With Murray leaving and Hoskins showing he can play the 2 just as well as the 3 and Mallory proving he can play the points. It looks like I might need to refocus my search for some SF instead of PG at the end of the season.

Caves-So does this mean there are some new recruits being scouted, how are things looking with L McLaren the PG out of Texas.

Akpan-It continues to go back and forth every day. I am hoping some strong play in the tourney will help us convience McLaren we are a team just off the cusp of winning it all.

Prater So Coach I got to ask with all the rumors out there. Is there anything to it, that this could be it for you in Boise?

Akpan-Mike for me that is only something that can be answered at the end of the year. I can tell you there are some great programs out there who could be looking to make a change. Are there jobs that peak my interest? Yes.

Caves-Rumors are that both of your assistant coaches are both hot prospects this year? Do you have any more info on that.

Akpan-Well I can tell you that Coach Dockery is pretty much Mt. St. Marys #1 Choice. It looks like he will probably be heading there once we are done with the NCAA Tourney. Coach Granger has been very impressive with his coaching skills working with Tamir,Chase,Chatfield and Carmichael. Those are skills that have attracted several schools but right now it looks like it is between Kennesaw St,Sam Houston St and Applachian St.

Prater-Wow that is amazing. I don't know if I have every seen a team with all 3 coaches as some of the top prospect in the nation. Do you have any possible names of assistants that you might be bringing in?

Akpan At this momemt I do not. I don't plan to really look until we know for sure. There are some very good coaches out there who have struggled as head coaches looking to get back into it, but for me personally I am a big believer in going with someone who is young and looking to get into the game.

Caves-Well Coach we are out of time. Good luck with the WAC tourney. Looks like you will be taking on a very familar opponent in Idaho.

AKpan Thanks guys. I am looking forward to coming back and talking about how the year finished out.

Caves Until next time that Idaho Sports Talk via THE TICKET on ESPN RADIO 1350

[CincyFan]

Nice ticket scandal. Glad this time I had nothing to do with that. With the whole roster thing its not that big od a deal especially losing Airline cause well if you didn't see my roster i have 10 people as well with 9 being freshman. At least you have upper classmen who can take on the adversity when it comes.

[Deuce2223]

WAC STANDINGS

UTAH ST 14-2 (25-6)
BOISE STATE 12-4 (27-7)
NEVADA 11-5 (19-10)
SAN JOSE ST 10-6 (17-12)
HAWAII 8-8 (14-16)
FRESNO ST 7-9 (18-14)
IDAHO 5-11 (11-18)
LA TECH 4-12 (8-21)
NEW MEXICO ST 1-15 (8-24)

WAC TOURNEY

OPENING ROUND
NEW MEXICO 73 LA TECH 72

2ND ROUND
UTAH ST-98 NEW MEXICO-58

HAWAII-69 SAN JOSE ST-65

FRESNO ST-76 NEVADA-75

BOISE ST-84 IDAHO-64

Chase and Tamir dominated the Vandals in th post combining for 46 pts and 18 rebounds.
Chatfield also had a nice game off the bench with 15 pts 7 reb. Looks like the 4 Horseman might be back after all

SEMI FINALS

UTAH ST-99 HAWAII-43

BOISE STATE-82 FRESNO ST-73

This was a total team effort. Honestly looking back at the stats I am not sure how we even won. Murray was our leading scorer with 13 pts on 3/7 3pt. Gadsen had a nice game off the bench with 13 pts. Hoskins was held to 2 pts and was 0-5 3pt. and Tamir and Chase were both held under double digits.

WAC CHAMPIONSHIP

BOISE STATE-92 UTAH ST-90

The Aggies might have won the regular season title and beat the Broncos at home in OT but it was those reason why the Broncos played with a will not lose attitude. Hoskins rebounded from one of his worse games to score 17 pts and hit 4/5 3pt winning POG. Tamir and Chase played amazing defense on Willie and got him into early foul troulbe. He would foul out late in the 2nd half and finish with 8 pts. Miles had another amazing game scoring 33 pts but most of those game from the line were he was 16-18 FT. Murray theory was if he hung on his arm it would be harder for him to shoot :). Mallory had another great game filling in at the point. He just missed a triple double with 10 pts 10 reb 9 asst.
He is giving me lots of options on what to do if McLaren doesn't sign.

I will be posting the NCAA pairings tonight along with results on how the Broncos did. If I get time I will also post all the end of season info.

[vikingfan1]

Awesome Legacy!

[Deuce2223]

Awesome Legacy!


Thank you.

I don't know if your read Coach Dezaron at all, but that was actually my 1st one. However I finally got the patch and rosters downloaded and through the process I deleted my profile with Coach Dezaron. So I started new with Coach Akpan one of his former players. Its been fun. Like you being a Illinois fan. I am a huge Broncos fan having grown up in Boise. So its hard for me to leave. Coach Dezaron left for Minnesota but returned home to Boise before leaving again to UNC. Right now I riding the teeter totter once again on should I go or should I stay. I am the top coaching prospect out there so each year I am offered the top jobs availalbe. Guess we will see what happens.

[Deuce2223]

FINAL TOP 25 COACHES AND MEDIA POLL, MID MAJOR POLL AND TEAMS OF INTERESTS

TOP 25 COACHES POLL IN []

[1] #1 LSU 27-3
[3] #2 ARIZONA 25-6
[6] #3 AIR FORCE 29-2
[2] #4 OKLAHOMA ST 28-4
[5] #5 OREGON 27-7(BEAT BOISE)
[4] #6 FLORIDA 26-6
[12] #7 G. WASHINGTON 25-5
[10] #8 ST JOESPH 25-6
[8] #9 MISS ST 26-8
[9] #10 G.T. 26-6
[14] #11 W. VIRGINIA 27-5
[7] #12 GONZAGA 25-6(LOST TO BOISE)
[11] #13 INDIANA 27-6
[23] #14 MICHIGAN 27-6
[13] #15 FLORIDA ST 24-8
[15] #16 TEXAS A&M
[19] #17 MARYLAND 21-7
[NA] #18 OLE MISS 21-8
[NA] #19 RICE 21-7
[16] #20 UTAH ST 25-6
[18] #21 OKLAHOMA 24-8
[NA] #22 WASHINGTON STATE 20-10
[NA] #23 STANFORD 24-10
[NA] #24 PROVIDENCE 22-11
[20] #25 VILLANOVA 22-10

Coaches Poll teams not in Media Poll
#17 St Louis 21-10, #21 Wisconsin 21-12, #22 Missouri 20-10, #24 UNC 20-11, #25 Seton Hall 21-11

MID MAJOR
#1 Gonzaga25-6
#2 Utah St25-6
#4 Boise State27-7
#6 Texas Southern 28-5
#7 Cleveland St 25-6
#14 Nevada 19-10
#18 Drake 19-12
#23 Fresno St 18-14

OTHER TEAMS PEOPLE SEEM TO CARE ABOUT

Duke 13-17 (only 5-11 in the ACC)
North Florida 17-12 (13-3 in conference but lost conference tourney)
Xaiver 15-15 (7-9 in conference)
Rutgers 15-15 (7-9 in conference)
Sac St 16-13 (12-4 lost conference tourney title)
Minnesota 16-15(7-11 in conference)
UC Riverside 11-17 (8-8)
Rider 15-16 (7-11)
Miami OH 19-13 (6-10 but won conference tourney #15 seed)
W. Michigan 20-10 (10-6 lost in MAC semi finals)
St. Francis PA 21-11 (13-5 lost conference tourney)
Long Island 12-17 (8-10)
Davidson 21-10 (16-4)

If you are following and want to know how your team did let me know. I will be adding Illinois to my list.

[Deuce2223]

BOISE STATE TEAM STATS

PPG-79.8 #2 WAC
RPG- 33.6 #4 WAC
APG-14.4 #2 WAC
SPG-8.6 #1 WAC #4 NATION
BPG-5.0 #2 WAC
FG- 45% #1 WAC #3 NATION (Texas Sothern was #1 at 49%)
3pt- .365 #1 WAC
FT-.669 #4 WAC

OFFENSIVE EFFICENCY-B+ #3 WAC #97 NATION
DEFENSIVE EFFICENCY-A- #4 WAC #87 NATION
RPI-#18 NATION (THE WAC HAD THE #10 RPI)

[Deuce2223]

BOISE STATE EARNS #6 SEED IN THE WEST

EAST/WEST/SOUTH/MIDWEST
#1 ARIZONA,AIR FORCE,LSU,OKLAHOMA ST
#2 OREGON,ST. JOESPH,FLORIDA,W. VIRGINIA
#3 G. WASHINGTON,INDIANA,MICHIGAN,G.T.
#4 FSU,GONZAGA,MARYLAND,MISS ST
#5 TEXAS AM,RICE,OLE MISS,STANFORD
#6 UTAH ST,BOISE STATE,PROVIDENCE,WASHINGTON STATE
#7 UTEP,OKLAHOMA,VILLANOVA,RICHMOND
#8 BC,KENTUCKY,UMASS,UCLA
#9 WISCONSIN,CAL,MIAMI FL,ULAL,
#10 TEMPLE,PITT,SETON HALL,OLD DOMINION
#11 UNC,MISSOURI,FAIRFIELD,CLEVELAND ST
#12 TEXAS SOUTHERN,LOUISVILLE,FLORIDA INTL,CLEMSON
#13 BUTLTER,GARDNER WEBB,S. ILLINOIS,CENT CONN ST
#14 BUCKNELL,N. ARIZONA,HOFSTRA,COLUMBIA
#15 MIAMI OH,STEPHEN AUSTIN,COASTAL CAROLINA,CS NORTHRIDGE
#16 FURMAN,SD STATE,VERMOUNT,MORGAN ST.

[hoosier1592]

my favorite legacy story. i made mine because of you. thanks for the great story's and keep it up! it will be sad when your tenure is up...

[Deuce2223]

my favorite legacy story. i made mine because of you. thanks for the great story's and keep it up! it will be sad when your tenure is up...

Thanks alot. It means alot. Gives me reason to keep on posting :)

[vikingfan1]

Im surprised Fresno St. is in the Mid Major poll with an record of 18-14.

[Deuce2223]

Im surprised Fresno St. is in the Mid Major poll with an record of 18-14.


I was too, but the WAC actually has the #10 RPI and they actually played a really tough schedule. They beat Gonzaga out of conference and played Miss St and Air Force pretty tough. So thats my guess. Then again I have noticed its not always about the records but alot of the polls are based off of what their overall rating is. Which sucks for me because I have a young team thus even though I had the #18 RPI and 27 wins I can't get in the Media or Coaches Poll.

[vikingfan1]

I was too, but the WAC actually has the #10 RPI and they actually played a really tough schedule. They beat Gonzaga out of conference and played Miss St and Air Force pretty tough. So thats my guess. Then again I have noticed its not always about the records but alot of the polls are based off of what their overall rating is. Which sucks for me because I have a young team thus even though I had the #18 RPI and 27 wins I can't get in the Media or Coaches Poll.

Yeah, your really getting rooked out of the polls.

[Deuce2223]

1ST ROUND NCAA TOURNEY

#6 BSU VS #11 MISSOURI

This is a rematch of last years 2nd round game. Only problem is this year Missouri is a year older and better, and the Broncos are a year younger and less expierenced. With only 1 player(Tamir) having major P.T. in Tourney action, the Bronocs are considered the underdogs even though they have the higher seed.

Well the Broncos would prove the Vegas correct in the 1st half. After some stupid passes the crappy D the Broncos fall behind 51-42 at the half. The Tigers are using a balance attack keeping the Broncos at bay.

In the 2nd half the Broncos would battle back with some nice 3pt shots from Hoskins and some nice defensive stops from Tamir and Chase on the inside. With 20 seconds left the game was tied 89-89 and the Tigers had the ball. After a quick foul, the Tigers would hit both free throws. The Broncos inbound and move the ball to half court before calling a timeout. 16 seconds left. Coach Akpan brings in the entire team."Well guys here we are. We got 2 choices. We can work it inside and go to O.T. or as a team you can tell me you want to play for the win, and I will draw it up. Its up to you" Team looks at each other. Tamir being the team leader says" We want to win it know coach." The play is drawn up. Hoskins inbounds to Mallory, Mallory dribbles left and dishes inside to Tamir 9 seconds left, he spins and looks like he will shoot for the 2 but at the last second dishes to Hoskins wide open on the wing. The ball is up. It looks good but at the last min rims out. Chase jumps for the rebound but the buzzer goes off. Game over. Broncos lose. Final score 91-89

Many people will question Coach Akpan decision but not a single one of his players.

Coach Akpan after the game"Well my theory is we made it here as a team and we are leaving here as a team. I am sorry I wasn't able to get Murray or Airline further into the tourney, but overall we are young and I know we will be back next year ready to prove to the nation we are a team to be reckon with.


I will have the breakdown of the rest of the tourney later today or tonight. Hopefully will be able to post next season also.

Again if anyone has questions for the Radio show regarding the season,recruiting, jobs offers, whatever feel free to post them or PM to me.

[Deuce2223]

Sad news.

My work has decided I spend to much time on the forum. Guess our computer monitor guy caught on to how I was keeping myself busy during the slow times. Its sucks because he only blocks certain sights. I can still read ESPN and Fox Sports just not 2k Forums.

So I will continue to post but it will not be nearly the same. I will be limited to my free time in the evenings at home.

I will also continue to follow everyone elses as much as possible.

[Deuce2223]

Quick update

After the Broncos ousting in the 1st round. The Tourney was pretty much dominated by top seeds. The Final 4 was #1 Air Force out of the West, #2 Florida from the South, #1 Arizona from the East and #4 Miss State from the Midwest. Arizona and Florida meet in the Finals with Arizona pulling of the win, their 2nd consective National Championship.

Coach Lowery won the Coach of the Year for the 2nd straight year.

Memphis won the NIT.

I will have the rest of the end of season awards tonight when I get home from work. I will also being doing the radio show. Send in any questions.

[blue_apocalypse]

Tough loss to Mizzou. I'm surprised to see you go down in the first round.

That's pretty lame that the IT guy at your blocked the forums...maybe he's a Vandal fan. :D

[Deuce2223]

Tough loss to Mizzou. I'm surprised to see you go down in the first round.

That's pretty lame that the IT guy at your blocked the forums...maybe he's a Vandal fan. :D


He might be :).. Actually our company was just bought out by a larger company, so they are cracking down on the use of the internet during business hours. The thing is I know of several people who spend their time looking at sites they should be no where near in a working enviroment, yet my forum gets blocked and my bosses Fantasy Nascar got blocked. Yet we still have access to ESPN,MSN,ect.... Seems weird to me.:confused:

It was a tough call on the Missouri game. I had mixed emotions. I really wanted to get to the next round and take on Indiana and renew my rivalary I had with them and Coach Dezaron, but I was also ready for the next season too.

[Deuce2223]

END OF SEASON AWARDS

Colt Fontenant from Baylor won POY and BOY scoring 25 ppg and 8 rpg

Donte Prybyszweski from Indiana ST won Mid Major POY avg 25.9 ppg 10.2 rpg 2.5 bpg

Pervis Franks-W. Virginia won the Defensive POY avg 20.5 ppg 7.5 rpg and 2.1 bpg

Ben Underswood-Tennessee was FOY avg 12.8 ppg 3.0 rpg 3.6 apg

WAC AWARDS

Boise States Andy Akpan took home COY

D. McCleod-Nevada won POY avg 23.9 ppg 7.6 rpg 2.5 bpg

J. Chase-BSU won FOY 9.8 ppg 5.9 rpg 1.8 bpg

1st team All-Conference
PG- F. Horner-Fresno St
SG-K .Miles-Utah St
SF-P. Moreno-Fresno St
PF-D. Tamir-BSU
C-D. McCleod-Nevada

2nd team All-Confernce
PG-Mulesian-Utah St
SG-Webb-San Jose State
SF-Cooper-Idaho
PF-Logie-Fresno St
C-Willie-Nevada

Freshman All-Conference
PG-Cloverdale-Fresno
SG-Mallory-BSU
SF-Hoskins-BSU
PF-Carmichael-BSU
C-Chase-BSU

End of Season Coaching offers
R. Barnes retires from Texas but the Longhorns offer G. Marshall from Utah St the job. Also Oregon opens up by hires Lowe from San Fransico, and Boston College offers L. Orr at Bowling Green the job.

Coach Akpan was offered S. Carolina-didn't realize Tubby Smith went there after Minnesota.?? Also Wake Forest fires Calloway and offers along with Northwestern and LaSalle. I was also offered the job at Utah St. :rotfl:

I turned them all down holding out. Had Oregon offered I might have been gone.

This is the 1st time this has every happened to me, so I am pumped yet sad at the same time. Both of my assistants are offered heading coaching jobs.:eek:

R. Dockery is now the new head coach at Mt St. Marys
J. Granger is now the new head coach at Applachian St.

TOP RECRUITING CLASS
1-Texas A&M
2-USC
3-Louisville
4-LSU
5-Villanova
6-Cal
7-Maryland
8-Gonzaga
9-Michigan St
10-BSU
11-Arizona
12-Indiana
13-Oregon
14-Providence
15-Arizona St
18-Stanford
30-Utah St
43-Fresno St

The West dominated recruiting with 8 of the TOP 15. WAC night be getting tougher too. with 3 teams in the TOP 45.

[jjredick4]

did you try using a proxy website...i do that at school lol

[Deuce2223]

IDAHO SPORTS TALK WITH CAVES AND PRATER. SPECIAL GUEST COACH ANDY AKPAN.

CAVES-Thanks again for joining us. Like always our guest today is Coach Andy Akpan of the Boise State Broncos. Welcome Coach.

Akpan-Thanks Jeff. Thanks Mike.

Prater-So Coach lets get right to it. The info everyone is waiting to hear. How did recruiting go. I saw that the Broncos finished #10 in the nation. I assume you must've landed L. McLaren to PG out of TX.

Akpan-We did Mike. I must say I was shocked but Louisville had added some pretty good players already(#5 overall and #1 PG in the nation) and I guess McLaren finally understood that we felt he was that missing piece to what I already feel can be a championship team. Here is a breakdown of who we signed.

#1-L McLaren 6'1 PG. He is a 5* AA Mr BB from Austin TX. He was the #7 overall and #3 at his pos. He has a(78) overall rating and a (75) 3pt rating
#2-C Jarrell 6'5 SF. He ia a 4*. Rated #44/#7 from Houston TX. He is a (75) overall
#3-D Turner 6'0 PG. He is a 4*. Rated #26/12 from Palmdale CA. He is a (75) overall and a (77) 3pt.
#4- A Drayton 6'4 SG. He is a 4* JC So from Mission Vejio CA. His overall rating is (75).
#5. T Bree 6'11 PF He is a 3* #152/22 from Reno NV. He is a (73) overall.

Caves-Very nice class Coach. So I see that means you still have 1 scholarship to offer?

Akpan.-Yes, however after discussing it we decided to hold it over until next year. This will give us 2 Scholarships next season and we won't be losing a single player from the squad.

Prater-So withAirline graduating does this mean McLaren will be inserted into the starting lineup.

Akpan-Yes it does Mike. That was actually one of they key reasons why he signed with us. As far as everyone else goes I am going to wait until my new coaching staff get here to help me evaluate the new recruits.

Caves-Who do you plan on bringing in. Is there a chance we will see any former teamates or past Broncos on the staff?

Akpan-It this time it doesn't look like it. I contacted. D. Falknor about the idea of coming in and helping coach McLaren and Turner at the Point, but he was offered a contract extenstion by the Denver Nuggets. Everyone else who I would want to bring back is enjoying great success in the NBA right now. So I will be interviewing former head coaches and asstistant coaches from other teams. and should have a decision in time for the Media Guide coming out next week.

Prater-How close were you to taking on a new job. S. Carolina and Wake Forest are some very good programs, why did you turn them down??

Akpan-Truthfully Mike there is only a handfull of schools east of the Rockie Mountains that I would even consider. Chances of me going back to Texas Southern or another Texas school is a possiblitiy, but to be honest right now I really feel like I am a West Coast guy. Had Oregon offered, I probably would've took the job. They had a top recruiting class and were coming off a 28 win season.

Caves-So next year is the end of your contract. Has Boise made any signs of offering you a extenstion in light of the ticket scandal??

Akpan-Well as you know Jeff we hired a new A.D. and the booster who had problems with me are no longer in the driver set in regards to making decisions for the School. I have had a long talk with the University and have been told that there is a 4 yr Extension on the table ready for me to sign. However because of my success I am going to wait it out and see what happens next season.

Prater-Well Coach good luck. I am looking foward to the coming year.

Caves-Thanks again for joining us. Keep a eye out for the Broncos 2019-2020 Media Guide availale soon.

[Deuce2223]

did you try using a proxy website...i do that at school lol


No figured it wasn't worth losing my job over, just in case the IT guy is smart enough to think of that. I am just going to be happy that he hasn't taken ESPN away from me. It won't really matter much anyways. Things are picking up now that the snow is melting so I stay pretty busy. It would be nice to be able to post on my lunch breaks and whatnot though.

[Deuce2223]

Wow I am gone a entire day and nobody post anything. Guess Coach Akpan has lost the love. :(

I will be back later tonight to post the upcoming season media guide for those who are still following.

[Deuce2223]

2019-2020 BOISE STATE MEDIA GUIDE

COACHING STAFF

With the departure of both assistant coaches. Coach Akpan is please to annouce his 2 new assistant coaches.

E. Padgett (38yrs old)
Coach Padgett is a B- Overall. He was brought on to the staff because of his B+ Scouting rating and his B- Charisma. He also adds a B rating on Offense.

C. Konyrn (29yrs old)
Coach Konyrn is a B Overall. He too brings great Scouting and Charisma(B in both) but it is his defensive knowledge(A+) that attracted Coach Akpan.

ROSTER

STARTING LINEUP
PG-L. McLaren (78) Fresh 6'1
Bio-A true freshman who will bring ability to hit the open 3 and drive and create plays for others. If he can bring 8-10 pts with 6-10 assist a night, Coach Akpan will be more then pleased.

SG-H. Mallory(79) Soph 6'3
Bio-Started the year at SG for the Broncos but finished out the season running the point. He has the size and quickness to fill both posistions. Last season he avg 9.1 ppg, 3.8 rpg, 3.5 apg 1.5 spg.

SF-K. Hoskins(76)Soph 6'6
Bio-Another player who can play multiple posistions. Orginally signed as a SG was moved to SF but finished the year at the SG spot. With a 87 3pt rating he is the teams best 3pt shooter. Last season he hit on 34% of his 3pt shots well avg 9.3 ppg 3.4 rpg, 2.2 apg, 1.4 spg

PF-D. Tamir(70) Junior 6'10
Bio-Tamir is the lowest rated player on the team, yet plays like he is the best. He was the WAC freshman of the year. Last season he stepped up once again showing great leadership on the team well being named to the 1st team All-WAC.. He has 2 yr avg of 13.1 ppg, 5.8 rpg, 1.8 bpg.

C-J. Chase(78) Soph 7'2
Bio-Was voted WAC Freshman of the year last season well avg 9.4 ppg 5.7 rpg 2.1 bpg

RESERVES
PG-A. Logie(71) Junior 6'2
Bio-A walkon who has earned a role with quickness and ability to get the ball up the court. Last season avg 4.4 ppg 1.8 apg

SG-E. Gadsen(73) RS Soph 6'2
Bio-Another walkon who has earned a spot as the sharpshooter off the bench. Last season avg 4.8 ppg 2.1 rpg and hit a team hi 49% of his 3pt shots

SF-A. Drayton(75) JC JR 6'4
Bio-First season as a Bronco. Was orginally a SG but will be asked to switch to the 3spot this season.

PF-K. Carmichael(73) Soph 6'11
Bio- Last season avg 5.4 ppg, 4.6 rpg, .9 bpg well backing up Tamir. Look for him to fill the same role again this season.

C-P. Chatfield(71) Soph 7'0
Bio-Last season avg 8.1 ppg 3.7 rpg. Played very well off the bench. Gives the team nice energy. He has 90 standing dunk, its awesome to see him come in and throw down some monster dunks.

REDSHIRTS
SF-C. Jarrell(75) 6'5
PG-D. Turner(75) 6'0
PF-T. Bree(73) 6'11

Another interesting year. Going with 10 players once again. It worked for me last year I really like my 2 team setup.

This season I will have 2 Scholarships to work with and no players graduating. Chase is considered a dark horse for the draft.

SCHEDULE

NON CONFERENCE
UC IRVINE(HOME OPENER)
@ EASTERN WASHINGTON
@ DUKE
@ UNC #7
@ WEST VIRGINIA
GONZAGA #24
@ AIR FORCE
ARIZONA STATE
WASHINGTON
UNLV(CHRISTMAS DAY)

We are also playing in the Great Alaska Shootout and the Hawaiin Island Classic.

PROJECTED WAC FINISH
Nevada(88) #1
Utah St(87) #2
Boise State (83) #3
Fresno State(80) #4
San Jose State (79) #5
New Mexico State (75) #6
Hawaii (74) #7
La Tech (71) #8

TOP WAC PLAYERS
Best Player-B. Page Utah St
Best Fresh-L. McLaren BSU
Best Shooter- F. Horner-Fresno St.
Best Playmaker-F. Horner-Fresno St.
Best Pro-C. Willie-Nevada
Best Defender-R. Logie-Fresno St.

[jjredick4]

No figured it wasn't worth losing my job over, just in case the IT guy is smart enough to think of that. I am just going to be happy that he hasn't taken ESPN away from me. It won't really matter much anyways. Things are picking up now that the snow is melting so I stay pretty busy. It would be nice to be able to post on my lunch breaks and whatnot though.

i wish snow was melting here :( we're supposed to get more Monday and Tuesday, today was really warm out though, 27 degrees, that's actually supposed to be the normal by now

that IT reminds me a the computer guy at my old school, but I bet if i really wanted i could find a proxy website he didn't block, last year it was vtunnel.com, but he blocked it this year

McLaren seems like he's gonna be a beast and i hope you do know, i will be cheering for Duke when you play them lol

[Deuce2223]

i wish snow was melting here :( we're supposed to get more Monday and Tuesday, today was really warm out though, 27 degrees, that's actually supposed to be the normal by now

that IT reminds me a the computer guy at my old school, but I bet if i really wanted i could find a proxy website he didn't block, last year it was vtunnel.com, but he blocked it this year

McLaren seems like he's gonna be a beast and i hope you do know, i will be cheering for Duke when you play them lol


I don't mind if you cheer for Duke, but just so you know they are not doing so well this time around. They were dominate in Coach Dezaron legacy but no so much on here. I have already been offered the job twice.

[Deuce2223]

BRONCOS START STRONG WIN HOME OPENER

BSU VS UC IRVINE- FINAL SCORE 94-68

Not much of a contest. Irvine had not answer to the 7'3 Chase. He would take home the POG with a 28 pts, 6 reb, 4 blks performance.

OTHER KEY PLAYERS
Tamir-19 pts 6 reb 3 blks
McLaren-0 pts but 8 assist
Chatfield-10 pts 4 reb 2 blks
Logie-12 pts 3 asst 2/2 3pt


NEXT UP THE BRONCOS HIT THE ROAD. 1ST UP EASTERN WASHINGTON. THEN A EAST COAST TRIP VS DUKE,UNC,W.VIRGINIA BEFORE RETURNING BACK WEST TO PLAY IN THE GREAT ALASKA SHOOTOUT.

[jjredick4]

man, i wish i had me a 7'3" player

[Deuce2223]

BRONCOS PLAY WELL WIN 3/4 ON THE ROAD

Game 1

BSU VS EWU Final Score 105-69

Again teams are struggling with Chase. He has turned into a beast. Once again he would take home the POG scoring 25 pts and grabbing 7 boards

OTHER KEY PLAYERS
Tamir-14 pts 10 reb
Mallory-21 pts 4 asst 2/5 3pt
Hoskins-14 pts 3/4 3pt
McLaren- 6 pts 12 assist

Game 2

(2-0) BSU VS (1-0) DUKE

The Blue Devils coming off a win over Idaho wouldn't have as good of luck against the Broncos. With the Broncos up 50-40 in the 1st half the Blue Devils would turn to the 3pt shoot to get them back into the game. They out scored the Broncos 51-47 however still lost. Final Score 97-91 Sorry JJ. Maybe next time :)

KEY PLAYER STATS

BOISE STATE
Tamir-14 pts 15 reb (POG)
Mallory-15 pts 1/3 3pt
Hoskins-10pts 2/4 3pt
Chase-13 pts 5 reb
Chatfield-11 pts 4 reb
Logie-13 pts 2/2 3pt

DUKE
Skeeter-18 pts 3/4 3pt
Diener-17pts 3/4 3pt
Becker-12 pts 2/4 3pt
Fraser-13 pts 1/5 3pt

Overall the Blue Devils shot 12/30 3pt


Game 3

(3-0) BSU vs #7(1-0) UNC

This was the tale of opposited teams. The Tar Heels are a veteran team with only 1 FR and play only 8 players. The Broncos however are very young and go 10 deep every game. In the 1st half it was the Broncos who would take the lead 43-35. with a very balanced scoring attack. In the 2nd half. Chase would take over proving he will be a major force this season. Both teams would play to a tie in the 2nd half but the Heels were never able to erase that 8 point Bronco lead. Final Score 88-80

KEY PLAYER STATS

BOISE STATE
Chase-28 pts 7 reb (POG)
Hoskins-19 pts 3/3 3pt
Carmichael- 9 pts 8 reb
Gadsen-6 pts 2/2 3pt
McLaren 2 pts 10 asst 4 steals

UNC
Haskell- 9 pts 10 asst
Sanders-18 pts 2/3 3pt
Neal-12 pts 2/8 3pt
Kane-20 pts 8/11 FT
Sigurdson-12 pts off the bench(only FR)

Game 4

(3-0) BSU vs (2-1) W. Virginia

This was a battle. Score went back and forth went into the locker room down by 2.41-43 .2nd half was played almost to a mirror image excpet both teams struggled score. With 15 seconds left and Hoskins on fire hitting 4/4 3pt, Coach Akpan would ask him to hit the shot to tie the game and force O.T. The play was ran to perfection and Hoskins was left wide open, but unlike his last 2 trips down this time the ball would not find nothing but net. The Broncos lose. :( Final Score 70-73

KEY PLAYER STATS

BOISE STATE
Tamir-14 pts 8 reb
Chase-13 pts 6 reb
Hoskins 13 pts 4/5 3pt
Mallory 10 pts 6 reb 4 asst 2/8 3pt

WEST VIRGINIA
Brittan 18 pts 3/6 3pt
Spooner-10 pts 13 reb


NEXT UP THE (4-1) BRONOCS TAKE ON (2-3) SACREMENTO STATE HORNETS

[Deuce2223]

man, i wish i had me a 7'3" player

He is a beast. Looks like the 4 Horseman are back. :) The thing I can't get over is how amazing Tamir is,After his great FR year I though he would get better, but he didn't. Then last year he did pretty much the same thing 13 ppg 6 rpg and improved froma 68 and 70, yet in games he is by far my best player most of the time. Its because of him Chase is having such a great year so far.

[blue_apocalypse]

Don't underestimate the Hornets! Before the start of my current season the AD tried to schedule a game against Sac State but I switched it to the game against Pitt. I couldn't bring myself to play the Hornets. Anyway, good luck..but with wins over Duke and UNC I doubt you need luck

[Deuce2223]

BOISE STATE SURVIVES 1ST ROUND SCARE

In the opening round of the Great Alaska Shootout the Boise State Broncos took the Sac State Hornets. Both of these teams played each other last season with the Broncos pulling off the 1pt win. This year was very much the same.

The Broncos took a 42-35 lead into the half, but Coach Akpan knew that this Hornet team still had some heart and he would warn his players to make sure they squashed any ideas of a 2nd half comeback. Well know matter what Coach Akpan and the Bronco D threw at them the Hornets were not done they would battle back out scoring the Broncos and tying the game up 79-79. With only 30 seconds left the Broncos would have the ball. The Hornets were force to foul. Gadsen hit his 1st but missed his 2nd however Tamir was there for the putback. The Broncos are up 82-79 with only 12 seconds left. The Hornets took the ball down and looked for a quick 3 the ball is off but Backman was there for the put back, 82-81. However with only 2 seconds left the Broncos were able to play keep away and run out the clock. Final Score 82-81

After the game we caught up to Coach Akpan
"Well I knew that the Hornets were good before we even played. A very good friend of mine Coach West at San Jose State built a great program there, so any time you play them you know you are going to get a game."

KEY PLAYER STATS

BOISE STATE
Tamir-22 pts 11 reb(POG)
Chase-10 pts 5 reb
Gadsen-10 pts 2/3 3pt

SAC STATE
Clemons-22 pts 9 reb
Backman-10 pts 8 reb


Next up the Broncos take on #1 (4-0) Indiana in the Great Alaska Shootout.

[Deuce2223]

(5-1) BOISE STATE VS #1 (4-0) INDIANA

The Broncos playing their 6th straight game on the road against the #1 team in the nation, many people wondered how much was left in the tank of the Broncos. The 1st half would not disappoint as both teams came out hitting from all over the court. The Broncos would head into the half down 1. 36-37. In the 2nd half things would continue to play out the same. With 2 mins left every one in the arena knew this would come down to the final shot. With the Broncos down by 2. 77-79. Coach Akpan called a timeout with 12 seconds left. "Well guys here we are once again and once again its up to you. The players talk it over and Tamir steps up."Coach they will expect us to take the 3 because thats our style, but we don't want to go down like that. We don't think they have anything left, so if we got OT we feel we will win." Akpan"All right works for me. Here is what we will do............."

The play looks like every last min play the Broncos run. The inbound from Hoskins goes to McLaren who in turns dishes to Tamir in the paint, however the Hoosier don't suck down this time and keep a guy glued to Hoskins at the wing. Tamir spins and puts the ball up and in. Score is tied 79-79 and we are going to OT.

In Overtime things would go exactly like what Tamir and the Broncos thought. With no bigmen left to guard Chase and Tamir, Chase would score 10 of his 29 points in the Overtime period outscoring the Hoosiers 12-5. Final Score 91-84

KEY PLAYER STATS
BOISE STATE
Chase-29 pts 10 reb (POG)
Tamir-12 pts 8 reb
Chatfield-14 pts

INDIANA
Malamon-28 pts 2/4 3pt
Joiner-10 pts 6 asst 1/8 3pt

NEXT UP CHAMPIONSHIP GAME VS #20 (6-1) OKLAHOMA ST

[blue_apocalypse]

I'm surprised the Hornets gave you so much trouble again! Awesome OT game against the Hoosiers..be wary of a letdown against Oklahoma St after a game like that

[Deuce2223]

I'm surprised the Hornets gave you so much trouble again! Awesome OT game against the Hoosiers..be wary of a letdown against Oklahoma St after a game like that


I don't know if it will be a letdown or the fact we will be playing our 7th game on the road and 4th in as many days. Either way its going to be a battle.

[CincyFan]

how many years have you been here now, and you don't have all your starters in the 80 overall range yet? Don't worry bro I still followed just been press for time lately. How could I ever forget my East Coast friends?!?!?!

[Deuce2223]

CHAMPIONSHIP GAME OF THE GREAT ALASKA SHOOTOUT

(6-1) BSU BRONCOS VS (6-1) OSU COWBOYS

The road trip is starting to take effects. Especially on McLaren. He would pick up 2 early fouls and Logie would have to play major mins at the point. 1st half Broncos down 45-50.
In the 2nd half the Bronocs would continue to work the inside as they have found most teams don't have the players to contain both Chase and Tamir. Well the plan worked at Chase once again led his team back to tie it up 89-89 with only 40 seconds left. The Cowboys took the ball down and scored quick but not quick enough as there was only 30 seconds left now. The Broncos down by 2 but would have the entire possesion to work out the game winnning shot. Once again the timeout was called and the discussion took play. Yet again Tamir and Chase would prevail in choosing to tie the game and play their 2nd consective OT vs trying to win the game on the last min shot. Tied 92-92.

In Overtime playing with only 8 players due to injuries and fouls the Broncos would appear to be running out of steam. Logie playing the most mins he has ever played hit 2 big 3's but the Cowboys answered back with 2 of their own. With 20 seconds left and the Cowboys now up by 2 the Broncos were forced to foul. After 2 made free throws Hoskins missed a 3pt shot and the Broncos once again had to foul. Down 4 the Cowboys would miss both but only 8 seconds left. Logie would take another 3 but off again and the game is over. Broncos lose the Championship 105-109 OT

KEY PLAYER STATS
BOISE STATE
Chase-25 pts 5 reb 2 blks
Tamir-13 pts 16 reb 3 blks
Logie-17 pts 3/6 3pt 7 asst

OKLAHOMA
Denneby-38 pts 8 reb(POG)
Gibbs-17 pts 6 asst.

(6-2) BSU NOW RETURNS HOME TO TAKE ON (3-1) GONZAGA

[hoosier1592]

i think apocolypse is calling your shots. care to be my booky?

[Deuce2223]

how many years have you been here now, and you don't have all your starters in the 80 overall range yet? Don't worry bro I still followed just been press for time lately. How could I ever forget my East Coast friends?!?!?!

I am in year 3 with the Bronocs.

If you were reading well. You would see that my guess are all FR and SO except Tamir,Logie and the Drayton the JC Trans. So I am very young, thus that is why I don't have my guys up in the 80's yet. McLaren,Mallory,and Chase will be by next season though.


East Coast Friends???

[Deuce2223]

i think apocolypse is calling your shots. care to be my booky?


It think it must come from the fact he comes and scouts my team when I play against other opponents and because we see each other twice a year.:) You are right though he knows me and my team well.

[2ksportsmaniac]

Im loving what you doing coach. Good game coming up with Gonzaga. Dont under estimate them they put me out of the CHAMPIONSHIP game. I felt horrible and my kids gave up on me haha. Only to make the NIT the following year big disappointment again. This year looks promising were 17-1. Gonzaga is going to be a tough out though. They keep great shooters. Good luck dude.

[CincyFan]

I am in year 3 with the Bronocs.

If you were reading well. You would see that my guess are all FR and SO except Tamir,Logie and the Drayton the JC Trans. So I am very young, thus that is why I don't have my guys up in the 80's yet. McLaren,Mallory,and Chase will be by next season though.


East Coast Friends???


I was reading just not sure what year you were in. Thought it was four and maybe 5, but then again the whole two legacies both at Boise has confused me. The whole east coast friends is people who love the East Coast in basketball. I know you are on the West Coast, but most of us know you love playing with a team on the east coast. Especially vols. :)

[Deuce2223]

BOISE STATE RETURNS HOME AND GIVES FANS A WIN

Playing against Gonzaga you know you are always going to get a good game. Last year it took overtime for the Bronocs to pull out the win. However this year the Brocnos were at home and coming off 4 days rest. They would come out and take early lead never giving it up. 1st half score 49-40. In the 2nd half the Bronocs would continue to go with what was working and that was a instead game of Tamir and Chase. Many fans were seen sporting the famous 4-Horseman shirts. It looks like they are back. Tamir,Chase,Chatfield,and Carmichael will make up the Horseman for Coach Akpan and they would deliver.

The Zags battled back in the 2nd half but were never able to erase the 1st half deficit. Final Score 98-91

KEY PLAYER STATS
BOISE STATE
Tamir-23 pts 11 reb 2 blks(POG)
Chase-13 pts 6 reb
Chatfield 13 pts 5 reb 2 blks
McLaren 8 pts 9 asst
Mallory-17 pts 2/11 3pt :(

GONZAGA
Sanyman-17 pts 10 asst 3/8 3pt
Underwood-21 pts 4/6 3pt
Washburn-14 pts 7 reb
Bitte(4* SG Mr. BB from OR that turned us down) 4 pts in 15 mins
Quinn(4* SG from Seattle also turned us down) 2 pts 3 mins of play.

NEXT UP THE (7-2) BRONCOS TAKE ON A STRUGGLING (2-4) AIR FORCE TEAM

[Deuce2223]

Will be back later tonight we some more posting. Sorry for the delays.

[CincyFan]

maybe it was a good reason why those two 4 star players turned down your school cause it looks as if they aren't that impressive.

[vikingfan1]

Will be back later tonight we some more posting. Sorry for the delays.

No problem at all!

[Deuce2223]

maybe it was a good reason why those two 4 star players turned down your school cause it looks as if they aren't that impressive.


Actually Bittee kid is a 78 overall and has pretty good 3pt. However I find that pretty much none of the guys I go after really end up being studs for other teams until their JR and SR years. To much depth on a team like Gonzaga. However overall they are not missed.

I must say of all the recruits over my combined Dezaron and Akpan legacy the only guy I am still bitter about is Works the 5* AA from Boise who was a 6'4 PG out of high school and ended up 6'8 by his SR year. He could do it all. But signed with the hated Washington Huskies.

[hoosier1592]

to much chatter! i wanna see (read) some Bronco basketball!!!

[Deuce2223]

BOISE STATE PULLS OUT CLOSE ONE ON THE ROAD

Traveling to Air Force to take on Coach Zachery and the Falcons can always be a challenge. Even in a down year with the Falcons 2-4.

The Broncos coming off the big win over the Zags would come out slow letting the Falcons take a 5 pt lead into the half 30-35. However in the 2nd half they would turn to Chase and Tamir and the Horseman would deliver. Tamir took home POG honors with 17 pts 7 reb 5blks. Final Score 77-75

OTHER KEY PLAYERS
Chase 19 pts 4 reb
Logie-10pts 4 asst 2/2 3pt


THE (8-2) BRONCOS NOW RETURN HOME FOR 2 MORE PAC-10 CHALLENGES BEFORING TAKING OVER AGAIN FOR THE HAWAIIAN CLASSIC

[auburntigersfan]

good job not having too much of a letdown after the gonzaga game, after my big games my team always plays terrible.

[blue_apocalypse]

The Falcons came out to play! Hope to see you take down some Pac-10 teams

[Deuce2223]

BRONCOS BATTLE WITH PAC-10 AT TACO BELL

In the 1st of 2 matchups with Pac-10 opponents, the Broncos took on (6-1) Arizona State. Just from watching the guys play you can tell that all these close games are starting to take a toll. The Broncos would fall behind 30-35 at half.

However in the 2nd half the Broncos would ride the play of Chase and Tamir once again as they would battle back. Down by 1 with 14 seconds left on the clock. Coach AKpan called his final timeout and set up the PG Look. As always its Hoskins to McLaren and McLaren to Tamir. only need a 2 for the win, Tamir would use his patent spin move and put the ball in the hoop. The Bronocs pull out the squeker. Final Score 58-57

KEY BRONCOS PLAYER STATS
Chase-17 pts 3 reb 5 blks (POG)
Tamir-10 pts 8 reb
McLaren 11 pts 4 asst 2/3 3pt



Coming off a battle against Sun Devils the Broncos would get no chance for rest against a underated Huskies team. Always a top recruiter, the Huskies team is loaded with talent once again.

The Broncos would fall behind once again down 40-52 at the half. Coach Akpan had former Head Coach BJ Dezaron stop by to give the team a much need pep talk.

Dezaron"Men this is where you get to make a choice. You can go out there and play tired and pack it in for the night and let these Huskies go home thinking they are the better team. OR You can go out there and play your hearts out and leave everything on the floor. I know you are tired and I know some of you are hurt. But this is your time to prove that no matter who you play they are the ones who should be considered the underdogs."

2nd Half
The Broncos came out like men on a mission. Possesion after possesion the defense stepped up and made major stops. With 4 mins to play the deficit was erased and the Broncos would take a 2 pt lead. Both teams would trade baskets with each other the rest of the way out and the Broncos would take home a much deserved win. Final Score 76-74

[B]KEY BRONCOS STATS
Tamir-13 pts 11 reb
McLaren 12 pts 7 asst
Hoskins 19 pts 5 reb 4 asst 4 steals 3/6 3pt(POG)

NEXT UP (10-2) BOISE STATE TAKES ON (6-0) FLORIDA ATLANTIC

[CincyFan]

why do you always have to beat up the Pac 10?

[Willie The Kid™†]

why do you always have to beat up the Pac 10?


because he can't beat up on east coast teams lol

[CincyFan]

because he can't beat up on east coast teams lol


So true so true. And look Deuce I wasn't even the one to say it :lol:

[Deuce2223]

BRONCOS UPSET IN 1ST ROUND OF HAWAIIAN CLASSIC

The steam finally ran out for the Broncos. Once again they fell behind early 22-39. As nothing was falling for them. Fr PG McLaren was held scoreless and managed only 3 asst.

In the 2nd half things didn't get any better. Shots started to fall but it was to late to little as FAU held on for the 84-53 win. This was the worse loss that the Broncos and Coach Akpan have had in 3 years.

BOISE STATE KEY PLAYERS
Tamir-10 pts 8 reb
Chase-14 pts 7 reb
McLaren-1pt 7 asst 0-6 FG 0-2 3pt

BRONCOS REBOUND TO WIN THE CONSOLATION

In the losers bracket the Broncos took on a (4-6) Akron team. It was like a different Bronco team stepped on the court. All 5 starters would hit for double digits as Chase led the team with 19 pts and Tamir turned in another double double with 14pts 11 reb. McLaren bounced back with 13 pts 6 asst and was 2/2 3pt. Final score 85-58

In the Consolation Championship the Broncos took on the (7-4) Houston Cougars. Coach Akpan is very familar with the Houston program from his days just down the road at Texas Southern. Once again Tamir had a huge night with back to back double double 17 pts and 11 rebounds, but it was K. Hoskins who has been hot and cold all year that would lead the Broncos to victory with his 20 pts 7 reb 5 asst 4 steal performance. Final Score 79-59

NEXT UP THE (12-3) BRONCOS HEAD HOME TO FINISH OUT THE NON CONFERENCE SCHEDULE AGAINST THE (10-1) UNLV RUNNING REBS

[Deuce2223]

because he can't beat up on east coast teams lol

Who does this Willie kid even think he is. He can't talk smack like that. I reserve smack talk for only my closest of friends. Better watch who you are talking to WILLIE!!!!!!!!!!

[Willie The Kid™†]

i can't help it....i speak the truth :)

[Deuce2223]

because he can't beat up on east coast teams lol

You must forget I beat both UNC and another crappy ACC team named Duke. Yeah if you want to get techinal I did lose to W. Virginia but they are actually pretty good this year.

So next time you want to talk you might want to get your facts straight 1st.

[Willie The Kid™†]

You must forget I beat both UNC and another crappy ACC team named Duke. Yeah if you want to get techinal I did lose to W. Virginia but they are actually pretty good this year.

So next time you want to talk you might want to get your facts straight 1st.

i'll ahh get back to you on that

[Deuce2223]

why do you always have to beat up the Pac 10?


I have to beat up the Pac-10 beause they are the ones I battle for to get my recruits. I don't recruit East coast kids. You can't tell me that there are high school kids lining up in Ohio jumping at the chance to play for the Broncos. Maybe in Football because we know Ohio has no decent football programs, but in baskeball I need to keep my focus on California,Oregon,Washington,and the ocassional Texas kid.

[Deuce2223]

SANTA CLAUSE PUTS A PIECE OF COAL IN COACH KRUGERS STOCKING THIS YEAR.

In what has become a somewhat tradition. Coach Akpan squared off against the Coach Kruger and the Running Rebs once again on Christmas day. For those of you who don't know the history. Coach Akpan was a Mr. BB from Las Vegas but was not recruited by UNLV and instead choose to go to Boise State where he was the #1 target for Coach Dezaron. A 4yr starter at Boise he was able to defeat the Running Rebs twice as a player and holds a 5-1 record against them as a coach well at Texas Southern and Boise State.

The Running Rebs are a vetern team with 6 Seniors and 5 Juniors. This young Bronco team would have their work cut out for them.

In the 1st half the Rebs did just what they are known for running. Running scared that is :)
The Broncos came out strong and worked the ball inside pos after pos. The Rebs battled back as they to had a pair of big men down low. One of which was So N. Barron who Coach Akpan had offered a scholarship too his 1st year at Boise. Barron 6'10 is avg 9 pts and 7 reb well Jr R. Kouyate 7'1 is the team leader with 15 pts 8 reb per game.

However neither was able to do anything on the defense side of things as Chase and Tamir once again showed why they should be considered 1 of the best big man pairs in the nation. Chase would lead all scorers with 24 pts and 10 reb and Tamir would add 14 pts 9 reb just missing his 3rd double double. Barron and Kouyate were held to a combine 16 pts 8 reb. Final Score 75-70

After the Game we caught up to Coach Kruger of UNLV. Coach what is your take on Coach Akpan, do you regret not recruiting him out of high school?

Kruger-To be honest I wish we would've had a spot for Andy but obviously you don't remember we had just signed 3 5* AA that year along with 2 4* who were top 80 in the nation. If I had another scholarship I would've considered Akpan. I respect him as a player and as a Coach. In fact I have personally asked him to consider taking over for me at the end of the year as this will be my last season as the head coach of the Running Rebs.

NEXT UP I WILL POST WAC STANDINGS AND IN SEASON RECRUTING. BEFORE STARTING CONFERENCE PLAY.

However there is a very good chance this will be my last post until Thurs Night.

[Deuce2223]

WAC STANDINGS

BOISE STATE 13-3
Key wins-Duke,UNC,Indiana,Gonzaga,Arizona State,Washington,UNLV
Key Loses-W. Virginia,Oklahoma St,Florida Atlantic

UTAH STATE 10-5
Key wins-Stanford,Colorado State,Drake,Gonzaga
Key Loses-Washington,UCLA,Arizona State,Oregon State,Penn St.

NEVADA 8-3
Key wins-UCLA
Key loses-Weber St,San Diego St

IDAHO 7-7
Key wins-Seton Hall
Key loses-Duke,Pitt,Iowa St

SAN JOSE STATE 5-7
Key wins-Gonzaga
Key loses-Stanford,Wyoming,Georgia Tech,BYU

LA TECH 4-7
Key wins-None
Key loses-Oregon State,Wyoming

FRESNO STATE 6-4
Key wins Gonzaga
Key loses-IPFW,Montana

NEW MEXICO STATE 3-8
Key wins-Arkansas,TCU
Key loses-Michigan

HAWAII 2-12
Key wins-None
Key loses-UCLA,Arizona,Texas Southern


Sorta thought it was interesting that we all beat up on Gonzaga this year. :)

I will be doing the mid season radio show Thurs. If anyone has any questions please post them. Will also do the recruit update ect.......

[Deuce2223]

Man Coach Akpan isn't getting much love from the readers. I am starting to feel like Chestnutz and nobody loves me anymore :(

[auburntigersfan]

Everyone hates you now. :bark:
no, we love you. :bow:

dammit these smileys are fun to play with.

[auburntigersfan]

this whole possible unlv coaching vacancy is really suspenseful.

[CincyFan]

you know I am following. WAC isn't looking so strong. Boise surprising is actually doing kind of well in my season.

[chestnutz6]

Following too, don't worry douche I mean deuce

you konw I just dont post much

[Deuce2223]

Following too, don't worry douche I mean deuce

you konw I just dont post much


Ouch that hurts. :( Actually I knew that, and I also remember Cincy teasing you once about being sad no one followed your legacy even though I did and I greatly miss it. :(

[Deuce2223]

you know I am following. WAC isn't looking so strong. Boise surprising is actually doing kind of well in my season.


Actually to be honest. I thought this was be best year as far as teams going out and playing people the fact that Utah State played Stanford,Colorado St,Drake,Gonzaga,Washington,UCLA,Arizona St,Oregon St, Penn St I was impressed.

In years past Utah St and Nevada always seem to schedule cupcake teams so they would have a good record and the league RPI would suffer.


However over the Wac is getting pretty sad. I love Boise just not the WAC thus my stay is probably going to be short, but you already sorta know that.

[Deuce2223]

this whole possible unlv coaching vacancy is really suspenseful.


To be completely honest that UNLV is all but given to me already. Now the question is whether or not I will accept. Coach Akpan is the most wanted coach in the nation right. I am actually have been holding out for a Pac-10 job, but so far none have opened except Oregon and they were a 94 overall and had me 2nd on their list, and personally I didn't want to go there. I would prefer, Cal,USC,Washington State, or Oregon State

[Deuce2223]

IDAHO SPORTS TALK VIA ESPN THE TICKET WITH CAVES AND PRATER

Caves-Thanks for joining us, once again we are talking with Coach Andy Akpan of the Boise State Broncos.

Akpan-Thanks Jeff and Mike for having me.

Prater-Well lets get to it. Everyone loves recruiting and who is coming and going. Looks like this is the 2nd year in a row that the Broncos failed to sign anyone early?

Akpan-You are correct Mike. We didn't but we are real close to signing a the Mr BB out of Utah.

Caves-How didi you feel when you cousin Trent signed on to play at Xavier for Coach Ryan.

Akpan-Actually I was very happy for him. I knew Coach Ryan from a few visits we had when I played for Coach Dezaron and he also gave me alot of advice when I was at Texas Southern. Personally Trent and I are not that close. There is almost a 20 yr age difference. So I am actually close to my Uncle and Aunt then Trent. They moved to Philly when I was still in high school. Really the only thing Trent and I have done is play some pickup games at the family reunions. So when my Aunt and Uncle told me that they really wanted him to come to Boise I was shocked, but after talking to Trent and finding out that he really did want to stay and play is baskeball in the Midwest close to his parents I was totally cool with it when I heard he was going to the X.

Prater-One last question on recruiting and then we will move on. Are you targetting any certain position or do you feel pretty good about who is back next year.

Akpan-Well thats just it we don't lose anyone next season. So right now I am just looking to add the best overall player.

Caves-The next hot topic is after the UNVL game Coach Kruger basically came out and offered you the job at UNLV next season. Whats going on with that. Isn't that some sort of NCAA violation.?

Akpan-Personally I don't know about the violation. But I will say Coach Kruger and I did talk and I told him as much as I appreciate the offer and the indorsment. I am still the coach of Boise State and I don't plan on looking at any other job offers until the end of the season.

Prater-So your saying the chance to go home and coach in your hometown for the team that you dreamed to play for is not your dream job?

Akpan-Be honest Mike, I don't have just 1 dream job. My 1st dream was to coach college basketball. I was able to make that happen at Texas Southern. Well there I accomplished another dream and that was to win a national title. My next big dream was to coach at Boise State. It took 10 yrs but I finally made that happen. Is UNLV part of those dreams, most diffently but so is coaching in the Pac-10 for a number of teams, so I can't say that just because Coach Kruger wants me there means I will be there next year. Who know Coach Kruger might decided after a great year he wants to come back and coach again, so you never know what will happen.

Caves-So Coach it looks like the WAC struggle some this non-conference season. What is your take.

Akpan-To be honest Jeff. I really felt like the WAC did a amazing job of stepping up and playing some big games. Do I wish that they could've won more of them yes. But overall I am very happy with how things turned out

Prater-You have loss some tough games and played a brutual road schedule. Do you think that will help you come conference and tourney time?

Akpan-Most diffently. Coming into the year I knew that this team needed to play a schedule like that to be ready come tourney time. We lost in the 1st round against Missouri last year. That didn't sit well with me. I havn't had a 1st round ousting since my 3rd year at TXSO.

Caves-Lets talk the roster for a min. It looks like fans have taken to calling Chase,Tamir,Chatfield,and Carmichael the 4-Horseman. Whats your take on that.

Akpan-Well lets be honest Jeff. There will never be a 4-Horseman quite like we had before, but I am very proud of these guys and Coach Granger did a amazing job with them last year. I have no problem with giving the fans what they want so yes I have given the marketing team the okay to start making the new 4-Horseman shirts just with a Part 2 on it. :)

Prater-Whats your take on who will be the key guy down the stretch for you. I know when Mallory and Hoskins were brought in many people thought they would be big time players, but neither is very consistant.

Akpan-Your right Mike. Personally I am okay with what we are getting out of the guys though. Did I think Hoskins was going to score 15-20 everynight yes. But you know what his presence on the court is what has allowed Chase and Tamir to really shine. I am also very pleased with McLaren. He has done what we hoped so far and that is dish out the ball and make plays.

Caves-Well Coach we are out of time but thanks again for coming in and talking with us. Look forward to the recap at the end of the year.

[Deuce2223]

CONFERENCE PLAY

Do to the fact I don't have time to post as much anymore I am just going to post what happend in the WAC this season with Boise.

We ended up going 11-5 and finishing 3rd in the Wac. Overall we went 24-8. Here is a breakdown of the WAC Tourney

Hawaii 67 La Tech 66
2nd round
Nevada 72 Hawaii-53
Fresno 80 San Jose St 75
Utah St 94 New Mexico St 78
Boise State 84 Idaho 52
Semi Finals
Nevada 73 Fresno St 71
Boise State 110 Utah St 67
WAC CHAMPIONSHIP
Boise State 81 Nevada 71

The WAC CHAMPSIONSHIP and a 27-8 record was rewared with a #5 seed in the Midwest Regional.

I will be posting the entire Tourney and my games just like I normally do.

For those who are sad about missing out on all the WAC games I am sorry but I just didn't see where I was going to find the time to get everything posted.

[hoosier1592]

its all good. its like falling in a coma and waking up with a beautiful wife.
except the wife's a WAC Championship, and a 5th seed.

[Superjames1992]

its all good. its like falling in a coma and waking up with a beautiful wife.
except the wife's a WAC Championship, and a 5th seed.Haha, that was funny! :rotfl:

[Deuce2223]

NCAA TOURNEY

EAST/WEST/MIDWEST/SOUTH

#1 NC STATE,G. WASH,SYRACUSE,ST JOES
#2 FLORIDA,FLORIDA INT,INDIANA,OK STATE
#3 KENTUCKY,FAIRFIELD,BAYLOR,PITT
#4 MIAMI FL,ST LOUIS,WYOMING,OLD DOMINION
#5 DEPAUL,VILLANOVA,BOISE STATE,TEXAS TECH
#6 OREGON,TEXAS SOUTHERN,,LSU,BOSTON COLLEGE
#7 ALABAMA,TENNESSEE,UNLV,UNC
#8 FORDHAM,ST MARYS,GONZAGA,MISSOURI
#9 ARIZONA ST,WISCONSIN,MICHIGAN,TEMPLE
#10 TEXAS,TEXAS A&M,AUBURN,STANFORD
#11 FSU,DRAKE,S. CAROLINA,DUKE
#12 MIAMI OH,GEORGIA TECH,MICHIGAN STATE,CINCINNATI
#13 CALIFORNIA,LAMAR,SOUTHERN MISS,PRINCETON
#14 SD STATE,FLORIDA A&M, BUTLER,CS NORTHRIDGE
#15 AIR FORCE,MAINE,ARMY,E. TENN ST
#16 E. WASHINGTON,WINTHROP,G. SOUTHERN,CENT CONN ST

NIT BOUND
W. Virginia,Memphis,Nevada,Kansas,Norte Dame,Arizona,Utah St,UCONN,Sac St,Maryland,Ohio State,Xaiver

[Deuce2223]

its all good. its like falling in a coma and waking up with a beautiful wife.
except the wife's a WAC Championship, and a 5th seed.


Whats even more funny about that Statment is if I took like to post all the games I wouldn't be waking up to my Beautiful Wife, I would be waking up to the cat staring at me on the coach.:eek:

[Deuce2223]

1ST ROUND SEES MANY UPSETS

#13 CAL UPSET #4 MIAMI FL 59-57
#11 FSU DEFEATED #6 OREGON 78-75
#12 GEORGIA TECH OVER #5 VILLANOVA 90-87
#12 CINCY BEAT #5 TEXAS TECH 75-65
#11 DUKE OVER #6 BOSTON COLLEGE 90-73

#5 BSU VS #12 MICH ST

Both teams came out firing and couldn't miss a shot in the 1st half. The Broncos took a 4 pt lead 52-48 into the locker room. In the 2nd half Fr McLaren continued to drive the lane finding the open Horseman for the easy baskets. Again their was no defense to be found as both teams came out with the idea of just trying to outscore their opponent. However in the end the Spartans would fall to the mighty Horseman from Boise. Final Score 106-93

KEY BRONCOS STATS
McLaren-15 pts 9 asst
Tamir-15 pts 9 reb
Chase-20 pts 4 reb
Chattfield-22 pts 8 reb 3 blks(POG) all of the bench.

[Deuce2223]

HIGHER RANKED TEAMS CONTINUE TO FALL

#13 CAL CONTINUES THEIR RUN OVER #5 DEPAUL 91-42
#12 GEORGIA TECH ALSO SHOWS THEY DESERVED A BETTER SEED BEATING UP ST LOUIS 75-57
#6 TEXAS SOUTHERN TOOK ADVANTAGE OF A MATCHUP WITH #3 FAIRFIELD WINNING 63-57
#7 TENNESSEE ALSO TOOK CARE OF BUSINESS WITH A 91-68 WIN OVER #2 FLORIDA INT.
#12 CINCY CONTINUES TO WEAR THE GLASS SLIPPER WITH A 82-77 WIN OVER #4 OLD DOMINION AND DUKE HAS THE OTHER GLASS SHOE WITH A 64-57 WIN OVER #3 PITT.
#6 LSU ALSO MOVED ON WITH A 92-58 BUTT WHOOPING OF #3 BAYLOR.

BOISE STATE AND WYOMING BATTLE

Many wondered if the Wyoming Cowboys could tame the wild Broncos of Boise. In the 1st half it looked like neither could, however in a last min steal the Broncos were able to take a 4 pt lead into the half 45-41. In the 2nd half both teams would start to cool down and trade baskets however with less the a min left, the Cowboys got a key steal and then another forced turnover and the were able to tie the game up. The Broncos looked to score quick in hopes of getting the last possesion. However this would not be the case. The Cowboys once again stole the ball and scored the easy 2, leaving the Broncos down 2 with 20 seconds left. In what has become a tradition, Coach Akpan would move the ball to half court before calling the timeout. As a team the Broncosc would choose to go for the tie and play overtime. In the Overtime period both teams would trade baskets back and forth until the Cowboys finally turned it over. Down 2 they would proceed to foul allowing the Broncos to build a 6 pt lead and thats how it would end. Final Score 94-88 OT

KEY PLAYER STATS

BOISE STATE
Mallory 10 pts 8 reb 4/4 FT
Tamir-18 pts 14 reb(POG)
Chase-18 pts 7 reb
Chattfield-14 pts 8 reb

WYOMING
Gamble-19 pts 10 reb
McNair 18 pts 2/6 3pt
Myers-21 pts 4/9 3pt

NEXT UP THE BRONCOS FACE THEIR BIGGEST CHALLENGE YET #1 SYRACUSE

[Deuce2223]

SWEET SIXTEEN CONTINUES TO BE SWEET FOR THE BIG SEEDS

#6 LSU DEFEATED #2 INDIANA 63-58
#11 DUKE 99-97 OVERTIME WIN OVER #2 OKLAHOMA STATE
#12 CINCY TAKES OUT #1 ST JOES 71-67
#1 NC STATE FINALLY PUTS A END TO #13 CAL 90-70
#12 GEORGIA TECH PROVES THEIR RANKING WRONG ONCE AGAIN WITH A 79-73 WIN OVER #1 GEORGE WASHINGTON
#6 TEXAS SOUTHERN(COACH AKPANS FORMER TEAM AND RECRUITS BEAT #7 TENNESSEE 100-87.

SYRACUSE PLAYS 7 PLAYERS IN MATCHUP WITH BRONCOS

In a surprising game the Orange only go 7 deep trying to keep their best players on the floor. Coach Akpan would answer with playing his starters the entire 2nd half and in the end it was the Broncos who were the better conditioned team. Final Score 82-77

KEY PLAYERS

BOISE STATE
Mallory-20pts 2/4 3pt 6/9 FT(POG)
Hoskins-18 pts 3/8 3pt
Tamir-17 pts 8 reb
Chase 14 pts 8 reb

SYRACUSE
Douglas-19 pts 5/5 3pt
Robbins-15 pts 3/5 3pt
Woodward 12 pts 9 asst


NEXT UP THE #5 BRONCOS TAKE ON #6 LSU

LSU HAS THE #1 PLAYER FROM LAST YEARS CLASS IN FR C 6'11 A. LARSON. SHOULD BE A INTERESTING BATTLE AGAINST THE HORSEMAN.

[blue_apocalypse]

What was Syracuse thinking playing only 7 players? Doesn't their coach know that Coach Akpan would have his guys in great shape?? Good luck taking down LSU

[Deuce2223]

What was Syracuse thinking playing only 7 players? Doesn't their coach know that Coach Akpan would have his guys in great shape?? Good luck taking down LSU


Have to be honest it was a 1st time for me in 14 seasons I don't think I have every seen a team use less then 8 and even 8 is not very often generally the better teams do it. UNC goes 8 deep most of time, so does Duke.

I am play 12 min halfs maybe I need to adjust the sliders so more guys get tired. In the 1st half I didn't call a single timeout, so I called them in the 2nd to keep my guys from wearing down.

LSU is goning to be tough. They got size inside and alot of really good 3pt shooters.

[Deuce2223]

ELITE 8 FINALS

#6 TEXAS SOUTHERN CONTINUES THERE RUN FOR A THIRD TITLE BUT 1ST SINCE COACH AKPAN LEFT WITH A 76-75 WIN OVER #12 GEORGIA TECH

#1 NC STATE CONTINUES TO SHOW WHY THEY WERE CONSIDERED THE BEST TEAM IN THE NATION WITH A 86-81 WIN OVER #2 FLORIDA

#11 DUKE TAKES OUT #12 CINCINNATI IN THE CINDERALI MATCHUP 84-74

#5 BSU VS #6 LSU

The Broncos came out hitting on all cylinders containing A. Larsen last years #1 player in the nation holding him to 2 pts before getting a 2nd foul on him. Coach Akpan continued to work it inside with a lineup of McLaren,Hoskins,Tamir,Chattfield,and Chase. 1st half score 38-30.

In the 2nd half the Tigers would come out firing the 3's and were on fire nothing would miss. The Broncos switched to 3-2 zone but even that wouldn't slow them down. The Tigers were able to erase the 8 pt deficit with 4 mins left to play. The Broncos continued their stronghold on Larson getting a 3rd and 4th foul him putting him on the bench with only 3 pts and 7 rebounds on the night, however they continued to fail at stopping the 3 ball. With less then 30 seconds to play and the Tigers down 70-72, they apppeared to look like they would hold for the last second shot. Coach Akpan had the Broncos foul forcing them to the line and giving the Broncos the last play. Now tied 72-72, The Broncos step up the play its a PG loop McLaren dishes into Tamir but the pass is stolen. The Tigers hit a quick 3 and the Broncos are down 72-75. With 6 seconds left Coach Akpan calls the timeout and sets up the 3pt play for Hoskins who was 2/2 so far. The ball comes into McLaren back to Hoskins its up. Looks good but rims out. Chase is there for the putback but the Broncos lose 74-75. :(

KEY PLAYER STATS

BSU
Hoskins-12pts 2/3 3pt
Tamir-16 pts 8 reb
Chase-25 pts 6 reb
Chatfield-11 pts 6 reb
McLaren 4 pts 8 asst but 6 TO

LSU
Wilkins-18 pts 3/6 3pt
Howard-18 pts 4/5 3pt
Larsen-3pts 7 reb(#1 player/#1 C 6'10 306 84 overall) I finished 4th in recruiting behind LSU,Miami FL,and Florida. He was from Miami FL. I need a big guy to come out of the west!

Overall the Tigers shot 10/21 3pt

[Deuce2223]

FINAL 4 AND CHAMPIONSHIP GAME

FINAL 4
LSU ENDS DUKE MIRCLE RUN WITH A 76-74 OT WIN.
NC STATE DEFEATS TEXAS SOUTHERN 73-67

NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP
NCSTATE DEFEATS LSU 84-80

NIT FINAL 4
KANSAS DEFEATS MEMPHIS 78-70
MARYLAND DEFEATS ARIZONA 86-77

NIT CHAMPIONSHIP
MARYLAND DEFEATED KANSAS 84-81

[Deuce2223]

POST SEASON WRAP HOPEFULLY LATER TONIGHT.

[blue_apocalypse]

Whoa, that has to be a heartbreaker. Looks like LSU did a good job reviewing the tape and knew you were gonna call that PG loop. I'm sure you'll be back next season for another run at the championship

[Superjames1992]

Ouch, tough loss there to the Tigers. That's tough to lose right before you got to the Final Four, but an Elite Eight is nothing to sneeze about; it is quite an accomplishment.

[Duke4Life]

i hate LSU

[chestnutz6]

Curses, Syracuse actually plays with only 7 players in real life.

[Deuce2223]

Curses, Syracuse actually plays with only 7 players in real life.

I figured as much. I know UNC pretty much stays with 8 and I know there a a few others out there that do also.

When I play I generally like to play 10. On 13 min halfs I play my starters for 5 mins sub in my bench for 3 and then my starters back in for 5, utlilizing timouts to keep them from gettting tired before the end of the half and the game. However there have been seasons where I will only go 8 deep. I will have a backup PG and then a guy who will sub in a t SG and SF and a guy to sub in at PF and Center.

[Deuce2223]

BRONCOS OFFSEASON

Well the UNLV job didn't open up and neither did any Pac-10 teams. Was offered a chance to go to Boston College,Clemson, and Virginia in the ACC and was offered to go to LSU and S. Carolina in the SEC. Turned them all down. Will wait another year...

I had 2 scholarships to offer.
The 1st went to 4*Clayton Krough a 6'6 SF that was ranked #80 overall and #22 at his posistion. He was the Mr. BB from Salt Lake Utah. He came in ranked 76 overall and a 75 3pt shooter. He will redshirt a year before taking over for Hoskins at SF

With the 2nd Scholarship I was turned down by 4* Dwon Coleman the #87 overall #8 PF
He ended up signing with Long Beach State as he decided he wanted to play closer to home. He was from Fullerton CA. He was a 79 overall.

I decided to hold the scholarship for next season. I could've landed a 3* C, but with my depth the decesion to hold it is not a bad choice.

2020-2021 SEASON

Actually decided to sim the entire year and take a new job. I love my Broncos but playing the WAC schedule was starting to bore me again. Here is a rundown of what happened.

Boise State went 11-2 in non-conference making it all the way up to #12 in the nation. However they then proceded to go 13-3 in conference losing to Utah St both times and Nevada once falling out of the Top-25. In the WAC tourney they turned it around and beat Nevada in the championship. At 27-5 they were given a #5 seed once again. We rolled past Coleman and Long Beach St in the opening round. Pulled a squeker over Michigan St in the 2nd round. In the sweet sixteen we took on #1 ND and pulled out a 6 pt win. Elite 8 met up with #2 Indiana. The Broncos pulled out the 8 pt win. In the Final 4, we matchup up against #3 Stanford. It was a close game but the Cards pulled out the win 75-71. However this Final 4 appearence was the best that Coach Akpan pulled off in his stay at Boise State.

After the season several schools opened up that peaked Coach Akpan interest. Colorado St fired T. Miles, and Coach Kruger finally did retire from UNLV. However even the chance to go home and coach his hometown Running Rebs was not enough to keep Coach Akpan from making his next decision.

[boomosby50]

so where are you gonna go? Wait, did you go to UNLV?

[Deuce2223]

WE GO LIVE TO A PRESS CONFERENCE AT HAAS PAVILLION

Sandy Barbour(AD)-Thank you for joining me today. Yesterday was a sad day as Coach Braun decided to retire from coaching. But today is joyous occasion as I feel we have landed the best young coach in the nation Andy Akpan. Here is a breakdown of what Coach Akpan has accomplished already in his early career.

BIO OF COACH ANDY AKPAN
WINS-393
LOSES-101
9 TIME CONFERENCE CHAMPION
13 TIME CONFERENCE TOURNEY WINNER
11-20+ SEASONS
13 NCAA APPEARENCES
7 SWEET SIXTEEN APPEARENCES
4 FINAL 4 APPEARENCES
2 NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS

and now here is your new head coach of the Univeristy of California Golden Bears. Coach Andy Akpan. :)

Akpan-Thank you for coming everyone. This is a amazing day. Never in a million years would I have thought that at age 39 I would be the head coach of a team in the Pac-10.

Reporter 1-Coach how hard was it to leave Boise and also how hard was it to turn down UNLV your home team?

Akpan-Well obviously it was very had to leave Boise. After coaching at TXSO for 10 seasons and finally getting the BSU job I figured it would be my last job. I thought I would retire as the head coach of Boise State. Even though I had dream of coaching at UNLV and in the PAC-10 I wasn't sure if those dreams would be a reality. As none of the Schools had offered me before even though I had several chances to join the ACC,SEC,BIG TEN,BIG 12,and even the BIG EAST. So when both jobs here at Cal and UNLV opened up it was a tough decision.

Reporter 2-Coach you had a very young team at Boise. How did the players take you leaving.

Akpan-Most of the guys where really cool with it. They knew the day was coming and was somewhat expected. I think the player that took it the hardest was McLaren. He told me when he chose Boise over Louisville it was because he wanted to play for me all 4 years. So that by far was the hardest choice. In leaving I had to do something I really don't like to do and that is agree to schedule Boise State for the next 2 seasons. We will be playing our Home Opener against them this season and next year go to Boise State.

Reporter 1 How does it feel to have another of your assistant coaches get a head coaching job?

Akpan-It was good. I actually was sorta upset that Boise didn't consider higher Coach Padgett or for that matter Coach Granger or Coach Dockery, but Coach Lane formerly of Montana will do a great job. When the University of Montana called me and asked what I though of them offereing their opening to Coach Padgett I was thrilled. I also thought I was going to lose Coach Konyrn but lucky for us he has decided to join me here at Berkley.

Reporter 2-Have you found a replacement yet. Any chance of any former Broncos joining your staff again?

Akpan-I don't know yet. I am going to take awhile and interview several coaches before deciding, at this time I don't have any former teammates looking for a job but should any contact me I would be open to the idea.

Reporter 1 Coach the Bears are coming off a 23 win season and its been 8 years since they have won the Pac-10 and 2 years since winning the Pac-10 tourney. What are your goals for the season.

Akpan-Well we have a very good team going into next season. Coach Braun landed 2 very nice recruits during the year, so I see this team going far. Can we win the Pac-10 yes I think we can. Will we win the tourney. You never know. Sometimes I don't think that is always the best thing as it can wear you down before the Big Dance.

Goals for next season
Coach a NCAA All-American.
Have the Top Recruiting Class
Have a player turn Pro.

Considering the type of seasons and type of players Coach Akpan has had play for him its amazing that these are goals that have yet to be accomplished.

Well guys thanks for joining us today. Please feel free to email in any questions you have about the team,the Pac-10, Coach Akpan ect..

Every week Coach Akpan will join Eddie Kleinhans and Matt Foley at Looneys Bar-B-Que.
Also you will have a chance to follow all Bear games via KYOU 1550 am with Roxy Bernstain and Tood McKim. You will also be able to catch every home came via Comcast Sportsnet. Coach Akpan will also do a midseason report and the end of the year report on on Comcast Sportsnet.

[Deuce2223]

2021-2022 UNIVERSITY OF CAL BEARS MEDIA GUIDE

Joining 1st year Coach Akpan on his Staff along with Coach Konyrn is Coach Logan.

Luther Logan is 41 yrs old and has spent the last 10 years as a assistant for a numberous California teams including his last 3 seasons at Fresno State. He brings a amazing ability to scout and recruit players out of California. He will be a great addition to Coach Akpan staff.

THE TEAM

STARTERS

PG-(86) 5'10 JR Senque Pitta.
Bio-Last season avg 9.8 ppg 4.9 apg and shot 33% from 3pt. He has a 79 3pt rating.
Orginally a 4* recruit out of Fremont CA

SG-(80) 6'3 JR Filberto Curray.
Bio-Last season avg 14.9 ppg 3.1 rpg, 2.1 apg, 1.3 spg. He shot 38% from 3pt and has the best 3pt rating at (87)
Orginally a 4* recruit out of San Mateo CA.

SF-(83) 6'7 SR Darian Grkovic.
Bio-Last season avg 8.8 ppg, 4.6 rpg, 1.2 apg. He is one of the teams COF.
Orginally a 4* he is one of 4 players on the Cal team out of McClymond High School in Oakland.

PF-(78) 6'7 SO Winston Matera
Bio-Last season avg 7.2 ppg, 5.4 rpg, 2.2 bpg. He was named a NCAA Freshman All-American and was also a Pac-10 All-Conference freshman.
Orginally a 3* out of Livermore CA

C-(80) 6'8 FR Scottie Hampton
Bio-The key to last seasons recruiting class. He is a 5* AA ranked #14 overall and #2 at PF. He will be asked to play C this season and brings great range of abilitys inlcuding the ability to hit from downtown(75) He reminds Coach Akpan of another former Bear Ryan Anderson. Hampton was out of Santa Maria CA.

BENCH
PG-(80) 6'2 SR A. Perkins.
Bio-Last season avg 6.5 ppg 1.9 apg and shot 41% 3pt(74) A 3* orginally out of Oakland CA.

SG-(75) 6'3 SR M. Myers
Bio-Last season had very limited P.T. He has a 74 3pt rating. He is the 3rd of the 4 Oakland players.

SF-(82) 6'6 SR R. Ziegler
Bio-Last season avg 7.6 ppg 5.6 rpg.
Orginally out of San Fransico CA he was a 4* recruit.

C-(68) 6'11 SR D. Ely
Bio-Last season had very limited PT. However will be asked to play a major role this season being the only player taller then 6'9 on the team.
Orginally a 2* out of Fresno CA

PG-(68) 5'10 FR D. Tatarunas
Bio-A walkon from Lithunia. He is the only player not from California on the team. He made the team due to his 74 3pt rating. His role will be the shooter off the bench.

REDSHIRTS

PG-(81) 6'0 JR M. Lampley
Bio-Last season avg 4.8 ppg.
Orginally a 4* and the last of the 4 Oakland McClymonds teamates.

PG-(77) 6'2 SO D. White
Bio-Last season avg 3.9 ppg
Orginally a 4* out of Capertino CA

SG-(76) 6'7 JC SO N. Hendrick
Bio-1st season as a Bear
Orginally a 4* out of Oakland CA

[Deuce2223]

UNIVERISTY OF CALIFORNIA ANNOUNCES 2021-2022

Non-Conference
11/14 #9 Boise State(Home Opener)
11/15 @ San Jose State
11/21 @ UC Riverside
11/26 San Diego State
12/3 Fresno State
12/4 @ Applachian St
12/7 @ Mt. St Marys
12/12 Sacremento State
12/18 #4 Gonzaga
12/24 Golden Bear Classic at Haas Pavillion
1st round-Alcorn St
2nd round-Oakland or Holy Cross

Pac-10 Conference
12/30 @ Arizona St
1/1 @ #14 Washington
1/6 #3 USC(Conference Home Opener)
1/8 Oregon State
1/13 @ Oregon
1/15 @ #15 Stanford
1/20 Washington State
1/22 #16 Arizona
1/29 @ UCLA
2/3 @ Oregon State
2/5 @ #3 USC
2/10 Oregon
2/12 #15 Stanford
2/17 @ #16 Arizona
2/19 @ Washington State
2/27 UCLA
3/3 Arizona State
3/5 #14 Washington(Senior Night)


PAC-10 PROJECTED FINISHOverall rating in ()
USC(92)
STANFORD(91)
WASHINGTON(90)
ARIZONA(90)
OREGON(89)
CAL(89)
ARIZONA STATE(89)
UCLA(87)
WASHINGTON STATE(81)
OREGON STATE(80)

BEST OVERALL PLAYERS IN THE PAC-10
Overall and Pro-PF K. Russell(88) Washington
Frosh-SG R. Watson(83) USC
Shooter-PG C. Hogan (87) USC
Playmaker-PG S. Pitta (86) CAL
Defender-PF R. Buchanan(84) USC

[Deuce2223]

PRESEASON TOP 25

#1 LOUISVILLE
#2 VILLANOVA
#3 USC
#4 GONZAGA
#5 BOSTON COLLEGE
#6 MICHIGAN STATE
#7 W. VIRGINIA
#8 KENTUCKY
#9 BOISE STATE
#10 TEXAS A&M
#11 S. CAROLINA
#12 STANFORD
#13 PURDUE
#14 WASHINGTON
#15 PROVIDENCE
#16 ARIZONA
#17 MARYLAND
#18 CAL
#19 TEXAS
#20 DEPAUL
#21 MEMPHIS
#22 KANSAS
#23 SYRACUSE
#24 TEXAS TECH
#25 MIAMI FL

[blue_apocalypse]

It's good to have Coach Akpan out of the WAC..maybe now I can take down Boise State! However....now I have to compete against legendary Coach Akpan for those Bay Area recruits.

I like the move to Cal..they were my #1 team if I ever got an offer from them. I may end up in the Pac-10 one of these days too (especially if Arizona State offers)

[boomosby50]

Wait, can you have your old players as assistant coaches? I didn't know that. After how many years?

[Deuce2223]

Wait, can you have your old players as assistant coaches? I didn't know that. After how many years?

No its just part of my storyline.

I had another legacy post patch-with Coach Dezaron. Andy Akpan was one of my players and Jeb Granger was one of his teammates. You can edit the coaches names so I just made one of the available assistants Granger. However for some reason, Boise State is the hotbed for assistant coaches to get offers to become head coaches. The reason why I made Akpan and Granger Coaches were they were both amazing players that didn't get drafted.

[Deuce2223]

Wait, can you have your old players as assistant coaches? I didn't know that. After how many years?

No its just part of my storyline.

I had another legacy post patch-with Coach Dezaron. Andy Akpan was one of my players and Jeb Granger was one of his teammates. You can edit the coaches names so I just made one of the available assistants Granger. However for some reason, Boise State is the hotbed for assistant coaches to get offers to become head coaches. The reason why I made Akpan and Granger Coaches were they were both amazing players that didn't get drafted.

If they every get this forum fixed, I will starting posting games. I must say I am very happy with the season thus far with the Bears

[Deuce2223]

Coach Akpan hopes to make his return tonight. Pretty much Thurs and the weekend are my only time to post now and this wonderful forum was all messed up last weekend making it very hard to post.

[Deuce2223]

ESPN BREAKING STORY

We go live to Berkley California where the University of California has a major annoucement.

It is a sad day for Bears basketball. Coach Andy Akpan was found to have broken several major recruiting viloations in his attempt to land big time players to compete against the likes of instate rivals USC,UCLA and Stanford. These violations range from money to gifts such as cars and luxury apartments. The University had no choice but to give this promising young coach his walking papers.

Coach Akpan would like to give a verbal statement.

1st I would like to thank all of my players,fans and the school for even giving me the chance. I am not going to stand here and say I didn't know about the violations but I will say I didn't mastermind them. These were actual choices made by my assistant coaches. Recruiting in Boise Idaho and in Berkley CA are to different worlds. Down here if you want to get the best you have offer the best. I regret the decision made by myself and my fellow coaches but I know the university will be able to move on without us. I would also like to say that this will not be my last coaching job.

Thank you again for your time and I wish you all the best.

[Deuce2223]

For those who have followed this story. I again thank you for your time and posts. However to let all of you know Coach Akpan has already been offered a assistant coaching job working for his former coach. Coach Dezaron. I would love it if all of you would move back over to THE LIFE OF COACH DEZARON and follow both coaches as they take their next step in their careers.

[boomosby50]

I just think you could've ended it differently then the recruting violations, it makes a great career overshadowed by scandal, what if you could've just retired then made a shocking announcement that you were becoming Dezaron's assistant? I mean, i guess it works out, its just a shame, ya know

[CincyFan]

are u sure he played for Dezaron or for Sampson at IU?

[Deuce2223]

I just think you could've ended it differently then the recruting violations, it makes a great career overshadowed by scandal, what if you could've just retired then made a shocking announcement that you were becoming Dezaron's assistant? I mean, i guess it works out, its just a shame, ya know


I guess I hear what you are saying, but reallly it wasn't Coach Akpan. It was his new assistants that he had to hire when he went to Cal. He will be back, the NCAA cleared him of all violations. But for now he is happy being reunited with Coach Dezaron and helping build a dynasty in Minnesota.

[CincyFan]

it was already moved already. I will bump it up so you can find it easier. lol