Deja Vu: Coach D's Annual March March to Greatness.....

[elprez98]

Background: When we last left Coach Dillard, he was attempting to build FAMU's sputtering basketball program into a a mirror image of the fledgling powerhouse he created in just five seasons at Chicago State(see chistate cougars legacy for details) (http://www.espnvideogames.com/community/forums/viewtopic.php?t=4514&postdays=0&postorder=asc&start=0)......


Now in an alternate, upgraded, and nearly bugfree universe, we follow Coach Dillard's attempt to rise to the G.O.A.T. beginning his reign at a small school in Southern Virginia...named Radford University. As we all know, Coach D believes in defense first and that philosophy didn't change with the universe. As a coach, Dee(that's his first name) focuses on defense and then allows the rest of the game to flow from there. Also a better than average scout, Coach Dillard does a decent job of recognizing talent but on the "flipside," he's not the most suave, persuasive guy that is adept at giving reasons why that talent should play for his program. Now Coach also has a supporting cast of Asst. Coaches who will be revealed as time moves on. We actually jump into Coach D's life three games into the season but recap will be given before moving forward. Now without further adieu.........experience immersion into Coach Dillard's world of College Hoops 2k5.....enjoy!!!!



Edit: Due to the addition of action replay, I'm going to start my Legacy over....sorry but it will only be better with real names......plus it will sharpen me for the ongoing college season.

[vandnbyriver5]

OH YEAH, HES BACK!!!!!!!!!!!!
I cant wait for you to get started, this was my favorite legacy, even as much as i loved Bomber's and Bait's and all the others

[elprez98]

Team Breakdown:
-------------------------------------------------------------
2004-2005 Highlander Players and Assistant Coaching Staff


Assistant Coach, Jibron Stallworth
Gastonia, NC-
-----------------------------------------------------------
It's funny what kind of scrubs actually want to be a college coach. Well don't get me wrong, Clint is a decent recruiter. Oh were you waiting to see what else he excels at? Nothing really. He's "practically no help" on the offensive end, and basically below average in everything else. Hopefully, if I can spot some decent talent here in VA, I'll put his good recruiting skills to use. His scouting skills are nearly as inept as his inabillity to coach....but I digress. If nothing else Stallworth has some desire to succeed and that will probably get him somewhere.

Assistant Coach, Dustin Wentt
Harriman, Tennessee
-----------------------------------------------------------
-Now Leonard, is someone who I think compliments me quite well. He's got a slightly better than average offensive mind which I definetely need. But on the other side, he's probably one of the worst defensive coaches out there but you get what you can get. Not overly ambitious, he'll probably stay put in one place for a while.


Players
starters as of preseason....
------------------------------------------------------------


#32,Whit Holcomb-Faye, point guard
Overall:72
6'1, 169lb, junior, Hometown:Winston-Salem, N.C.
--------------------------------------------------------
-has top notch ballhanding/passing skills, makes a wonderful floor general
-Will definitely be the guy down the stretch, a "tier-1" player in the clutch
-I think I knickname this cat, Hidalgo based on stamina alone
-doesn't mind shooting the rock(now if he's outside 17 ft things start to get sketchy)
-decent potential to get better

#5, Olumuyiwa Popoola, shooting guard
Overall: 62
6'4, 193lb, senior, Hometown: Aspen Hill, MD
--------------------------------------------------------
-Very streaky
-Mediocre handles, that might send him to the bench if I see another turnover from this guy
-Will add some defensive rebounding capabilities to team at only 6'3
-Decent Defender, but main ability on defense is to grab those steals


#20, Chris Gooden, small forward
Overall: 61
6'6, 236lb, junior, Hometown: Blacksburg, VA
--------------------------------------------------------
-One of the best pure shooters in the conference
-Very quick for his size, "don't let the smooth taste fool ya"
-That's pretty much all he can do....


Ivan Wilson, center
Overall: 57
6'9, 243lb, junior, Hometown: Huntington, VA
--------------------------------------------------------
-Best overall rebounder on the squad
-Stanmina is questionable


Duane Ricks, center
Overall: 59
7'0, 190lb, freshman, Hometown: Montrose, VA
--------------------------------------------------------
-If I had to rate his jumper, I'd rate it non-existant, wait can I rate it lower than that?
-This guy needs some meat on the bones, but hey you can't teach height
-Needs more backbone, "Throw it down BIG GUY" in the post
-Excellent, non-jumping shot blocker...


Bench:
(jr)G, Andre Bynum-great defense and ball-handling, rating: 61
(fr)G, Branden Smith-s.k.a.-"Mills Will,"..... will dunk on you that is, rating: 58
(fr)G, Dan Ross-might be very similar to Shawn in his college career, rating: 57
(fr)C, Colby Trent-Great rebounder, rating: 53
(so)F, Chris Oliver-dunk well and great rebounder, might get starting role over Wilson soon, rating: 64
(sr)F, Brandon Jeffers-has an o.k. set 3pt shot
(sr)F, Reggie McIntyre-Decent defensive rebounder

Redshirts:
#34 Josh Fox
#1 Tom Hayes

Hmm...I kept the the schedule regular, hopefully we can win a couple this year. (Deja Vu...)

-Coach Dillard

[vandnbyriver5]

wow,your team- better than Navy... my team umm... somewhat poor,
good luck with that PG he sounds like a player

[K Bomber]

Nice to see Coach D is back. I look forward to reading about his adventures. Seeing you do this is like having the mothership calling us all home -- or, something like that, I guess

Have fun....................

[Larry Bird]

its deja vu all over again

[elprez98]

Pre-season Top 25


http://www.ap.org/media/images/logo.gif
Media Poll Top 25


1. North Carolina (ACC)
2. Kansas (Big 12)
3. Illinois (Big 10)
4. GTech ( ACC)
5. Arizona (Pac-10)
6. UConn (Big East)
7. Wake Forest (Conf. USA)
8. Duke (ACC)
9. Maryland (ACC)
10. Cincinnati(Conf. USA)
----------------------------------------------------------

11. Syracuse (Big East)
12. Kentucky(Big 12)
13. Miss St (SEC)
14. Notre Dame (Big East)
15. Florida(SEC)
16. Louiville (Conf. USA)
17. Pittsburg (Big East)
18. Oklahoma State(Big 12)
19. Texas (Big 12)
20. Michigan (Big 10)
21. NC State (ACC)
22. Alabama (SEC)
23. Charlotte (Conf. USA)
24. Wisconsin (Big 10)
25. Stanford(Pac-10)

So as you can see, the ACC remains the King of College Conferences with 6 preseason TOP-25 appearances. The Big East and 12 follow closely with 4 apiece. Conference USA continues to solidify their push to be a top-tier conference tying the Big 10 with 3 appearances in the Top 25. While the Pac-10 continues their lowly slide to near mid-major territory with only 2 teams showing in the Top 25. Its going to be a wild, and wacky season and we hope you stay tuned to join us for all the action.

[elprez98]

Sorry ya'll. The holidays in video retail, just took a toll on me, but I'm back again. Plus, I only play online now. I'm truly the head coach from this season on........

WHAT A DIFFERENCE A YEAR MAKES


http://www.radford.edu/Athletics/sportsart/ruhighslogo.gif
November 20th, 2005
Radford, VA

In just one year under the reign of Coach Dee Dillard, the Radford Highlanders have gone from perrinial BIG SOUTH bottom-feeders to March Madness bracket spoilers.

The Higlanders ended the 2004-2005 season with an impressive 19-13 record while clawing to the top of the Big South. Radford also won both the regular season and conference title and advance to the 2nd round following a 1st round upset of Francisco Garcia and the #2 seeded Cardinals.

Though losing to the Dayton Flyers in the 2nd round(who?), the Highlanders looked poised to make another run towards the tourney behind the strong play of their seasoned senior backcourt of point guard, Whit Holcomb-Faye, and three-point sniper, Chris Gooden. Radford also got great production from last year's Big South Freshman of the Year, Duane Ricks.

We continue the ongoing legacy 2 games into the Coach Dillard's 2nd season, where the 1-1 Highlanders begin their seaon with the Thomas Jefferson Tournament. Easily defeating Harvard, 51-35, the Highlanders looked overmatched vs. a tough Charlotte squad losing 80-54. This is where we continue our season.

[elprez98]

Week 3 Top 25



http://www.ap.org/media/images/logo.gif

Media Poll Top 25


1. UConn (Big East)
2. Kentucky (Big 12)
3. Duke (ACC)
4. Maryland ( ACC)
5. Texas (Big 12)
6. Memphis (Conf. USA)
7. Cincinnati (Conf. USA)
8. Michigan St. (Big 10)
9. Arizona (Pac-10)
10. Florida St.(ACC)
----------------------------------------------------------

11. Florida (SEC)
12. California(Pac-10)
13. Arkansas (SEC)
14. Oklahoma (Big 12)
15. Alabama (SEC)
16. Boston College(Big East)
17. Pittsburgh (Big East)
18. Charlotte (Conf. USA)
19. Xavier (Conf. USA)
20. Michigan (Big 10)
21. Notre Dame (Big East)
22. Wisconsin (Big 10)
23. Illinois (Big 10)
24. Oregon (Pac-10)
25. North Carolina (ACC)


Looking over this weeks Top 25, the only real SHOCK is the Seminoles appearing in the Top 10. With a win over Texas A&M(CC) I can't understand why they are even close to a Top Ten squad. Granted their backcourt looks very solid this year, I don't see them hanging in with the Dukies, Terps and even Tarheels of the ACC.

[elprez98]

Radford Wins BIG In First Home Game

Rad 64 NC A&T 38

December 1st, 2005
Radford, Va-

Radford had another outstanding performance from their senior shooting guard, #20 Chris Gooden. The Aggies found themselves out-hustled, out-matched, and out-classed by a Highlander squad that seemed to just continue to "pour it on" ending in a 26 point victory, 64-38.

The Highlander defense was stifling holding the Aggies to only four points until midway thru the first period and just 33% for the game. "We just played the passing lanes, and let them make the mistakes," commented senior center Ivan Wilson, who managed to get four steals and a block out of the affair.

On the offensive end, Chris Gooden had a great night shooting 62% from the field including 6-10 from 3 point land and a "solo" 15-5 run in the 2nd half that put NCA&T away for good. "EVERYBODY knows not to leave that kid open. I don't know why our guys decided to give him room, but give him credit because the kid CAN SHOOT," added Aggies head coach, Ricardo Anthony.

The OTHER Chris (soph forward, BIG Chris Oliver) also had a good night adding 5 points, and 10 boards. Senior leader Whit Holcomb-Faye wasn't as lucky. Holcomb-Faye shot, a forgettable, 2/13 from the field with both shots coming from outside the arc.

"I couldn't get it started, and I know that's why coach sat me down. I know I was shooting a bit much, the benching was deserved. Plus, Andre(senior pg, Andre Bynum) came in and did a great job. I'm glad we won our first one at home," said the senior point guard.


The Highlanders move to 2-1 with the win, and on Friday, look forward to face a tough, undefeated (3-0) West Virginia squad led by senior forward, Kevin Pittsnogle who is averaging 20.3 ppg and 6.3 rpg through the 1st 3 games of the season. The Mountaineers are not 1-D either. They have 3 other starting seniors who all average double digit points per game.


Players of the Game:
Radford: sr, Chris Gooden, 28 points, 6/10 3pts, 2 rebounds, block, steal
Aggies: so, Demetrius Guions, 12 points, 5 rebounds, 4 steals, 2 assists

Mr. Longsword:
sr, Chris Gooden, 28 points, 6/10 3pts, 2 rebounds, block, steal

Highlander Contributions:
so, Chris Oliver, 5 points, 10 rebounds, 3 assists
sr, Andre Bynum, 9 points, 9 rebounds, 3 steals, block
so, Marcello Ramsdell, 4 points, 8 rebounds

Aggies Contributions:
jr, Sean Booker: 10 points, 5 assists, 6 rebounds
jr, Greg Roberts: 7 points, 9 rebounds, assist
sr, B.A. Borges: 8 rebounds, assist

Key Stats:
FG%: Radford 46% NCAT 33%
Assists: Radford: 22 NCAT 14
3pts: Radford: 9/22 NCAT: 0/5

Injury Report:
Radford: NONE
NCA&T: NONE


(by the way this and all future games will be "Coach mode" games. It more gratifying, nay, I can do other things while the HIGHLANDERS climb to the top...but I gotta watch out because Holcomb-Faye is .45 caliber at the point guard position.

Stay tuned for more frequent updates....becuase updating w/coach mode is much, much easier.

[K Bomber]

Nice work elprez. I was wondering what had happened to Coach D. So you're only doing these in Coach Mode?

Looking forward to the future adventures..................

[elprez98]

Nice work elprez. I was wondering what had happened to Coach D. So you're only doing these in Coach Mode?

Looking forward to the future adventures..................

Yea bomber. Its great to just watch your boys play out the game. Plus, when you see an "alley" or watch you boys get dismatled(like in our game vs. Charlotte) its a lot more gratifying plus the urge to press reset is lessened for me this way(though i never did it that often anyway, but still). You should try!! its probably the most addictive part of the game for me. Plus, XBOX LIVE KEEPS my thumb skills sharp anyway.

Edit: or when your star PG decides he wants to start building a "very sturdy" house all by himself, you can have him do a little heat transfer with the pine!!! I love it!!!!

[elprez98]

http://www.msnsportsnet.com/content/PatrickBeilein_BIO.jpg
Senior, Patrick Beilein shoots a three over the outstretched hands of a Radford defender
Pictures courtesy of MSNsportsnet.com



The Upset Slips Away

Rad 66 WVU 68

December 3rd, 2005
Morgantown, WV-

After controlling the entire 1st half and most of the 2nd, the Highlanders let a nine point halftime advantage dwindle away in the waning minutes of their game versus the Mountaineers, losing on a last second shot 68-66.

The Highlanders looked poised in the game taking control behind an agressive attack towards the hoop early and often by senior, Walt Holcomb-Faye. Holcomb-Faye continued to drive catching the entire WVA squad off-guard with his ability to slash to the hoop.

"I saw early that my shot wasn't going to fall so I decided to take it to the rack. I don't think they were ready for it initially," commented the saddened point guard. Holcomb-Faye ended up tying his teammate, senior Chris Gooden, for high score honors with 26 points, including an impressive 12-13 trips from the charity stripe. The Radford seniors were visably disappointed in the loss.

"We were so...close. But you have to give credit where credit is due, and they executed down the stretch and we didn't. I couldn't hit the shots we needed when it was necessary. I don't care how many points i score if we lose and that's real," added Gooden. Gooden also added 26 points and 4 rebounds in the loss.

After trailing 38-29 at the half, the Mountaineers stormed back on the strength of their "lights out" shooting in the 2nd half. WVA senior guard, Patrick Beilein scored 18 of his team high, 24 in the 2nd half. "That guy found his stroke and we didn't have a consistent answer for him or Pittsnogle's dominance on the boards. We wish them luck in the future because they can make some noise with that currently undefeated squad," added Coach Dee Dillard.

With the loss, the Highlanders fall to 2-2 but look forward to hosting the winless(0-6) Hampton Pirates on Tuesday, December 7th. Also seein the contribution that Ricks has made rebounding, Duane has been reinserted into a starting role over, sr center, Ivan Wilson.


Players of the Game:
Radford: sr, Whit Holcomb-Faye, 26 points, 12/13 FT, 4 assists, steal
Mountaineers: sr, Patrick Beilein, 24 points, 9/10 FT 2 rebounds, 3 steals,
8 assists

Mr. Longsword:
sr, Chris Gooden, 26 points, 4/10 3pts, 4 rebounds, 3 assists, steal

Highlander Contributions:
jr, Chris Oliver, 2 points, 10 rebounds, 4 steals
so, Duane Ricks, 10 rebounds, 3 assists, block
so, Branden Smith, 6 points, 5 assists, 2 rebounds

WVA Contributions:
sr, Kevin Pittsnogle: 23 points, 17 rebounds
fr, Bracey Cole: 11 points, 8 rebounds, 2 assists, 3 steals, block


Key Stats:
FT%: Radford 78% WVA: 91%

Injury Report:
Radford: NONE
WVA: NONE

[elprez98]

Shocked!!!!

Rad 57 Hamp 64

Wednesday, December 7th, 2005
Radford, Va-

Facing the 0-6 Hampton Pirates looked to be one more easy win for up-and-coming Radford Highlanders. Overconfidence is something that will destroy most teams and the Highlanders are not immune. The Hampton Pirates came in with a gameplan and executed it to perfection to leave Radford with a surprising 64-57 victory.

"This is why we play the games. No one is guaranteed a win, and we are no exception to the rule. If you go into a game expecting to win off talent alone, you are destined to either lose or at least have a hard time. We went into here expecting a win, and we didn't execute and therefore we lost simple as that," exclaimed a furious Coach Dillard.

The Pirates sailed to victory riding the strong winds of multiple alleyoops from sophmore guard, Woodard to senior Jeff Granger. "We were just in sync out there and it showed," added the excited senior. Granger and Woodard combined for 37 of the Pirates team points, including a scorching 6-10 from behind the arc. "Those guys killed us from outside. We didn't get out on them quickly enough and that's on me and Chris(Gooden)," added Radford senior, Whit Holcomb-Faye.

The Highlanders didn't get its normal production from senior, Chris Gooden who only added 12 points off a poor, 3/14 shooting night. The Pirates definitely dominated the boards 37-23. Not only that but the Pirates grabbed eight offensive rebounds that added to a solid all-around victory.

The jilted (2-3) Highlanders don't have another game until the 22nd of December where they head to the mountains of Boulder, Co. to face the (4-1) Buffaloes.


Players of the Game:
Radford: sr, Whit Holcomb-Faye, 24 points, 10/20 FG, 2 rebounds, steal, assist
Pirates: so,Adrian Woodard, 19 points, 2-2 3-Pts 6 rebounds, 4 assists

Mr. Longsword:
sr, Whit Holcomb-Faye, 24 points, 10/20 FG, 2 rebounds, steal, assist

Highlander Contributions:
sr, Chris Gooden, 12 points, 2 rebounds, 3 assists
so, Duane Ricks, 4 points, 5 rebounds, 3 steals, block

Pirate Contributions:
sr, Jeff Granger: 18 points, 4/8 3pts, 5 rebounds, 3 assists,
jr, David Johnson: 8 rebounds, 10 assists, steal
jr, Brandon Streeter, 11 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 steals

Key Stats:
Rebounds: Radford 23(3) Hampton: 33(8)
3 PT shots: Radford 6/20 Hampton: 6/10


Injury Report:
Radford: NONE
Hampton: NONE

[elprez98]

Weekly Recruitment Diary 2005:

December 8th, 2005:
We let a couple of the good ones slip away. Both Gibbs and Marchant decided to go another direction, signing with William & Mary and James Madison, respectively. Following these setbacks, we have to continue our focii in other directions when dealing with recruiting.

Looking at this year's roster, a point guard will be sorely needed. With both Whit Holcomb-Faye and Andre Bynum graduating, we'll be left with two unproven points on the squad, jr backup Tom Hayes(overall:55) and walk-on, Mire Simon(overall: 42).

The silver lining before we get any recruits to sign this year, may come in the form of last year's 3-star recruit(currently reshirted this year), Rod Walton may move to point guard, being that he is arguably the best passer on the team(Pass Rating:78), but his limited ball handling skills(BH Rating: 78) may not prove to adequate enough for consistent play at the point guard position.

Now with decent depth in the front court, we are looking for point guards, sg/sf swingmen, and a true center. So far, these are the NEW likely candidates:

Recruiting Focus


5-Star Recruits:
None
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

4-Star Recruits:


Marcello Laudato
5'9 160 H.S. senior
Conley H.S., Greenville, NC
Quick Sct: Integ/Hustle: A-, Shoot/Quick: B+
Current Top Schools: ECU, Radford, GW
[i]Scouting:
One of the top point guard prospects in the Class of 2006, Marcello is likely a high major recruit. A very good shooter with good range, Laudato also is a great passer that doesn't make many mistakes. A bit smaller than most schools would like. Average potential, but solid on any roster in the nation.

Right now we have moved up Marcello's list following our scholarship offer to play for Radford. His interest has sky-rocketed to a near high mark, we look forward a couple more campus visits, and seeing if we can "swing 'em" our way.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

3-Star Recruits:
Scouting:


Thor Millar
6'10 227lb, H.S. senior
Asheville H.S., Asheville, NC[/b]
Quick Sct: Shooting: A-, Intell/Quick/Rebd: C+
Current Top Schools: Win, C of C, Rad, Fur

Thor is a very talented senior making waves here in the southern VA/northern NC area. An offensive juggernaut at the center position, this guy seems to be able to pour in points at will.

Luckily for us, he's a bit of "moma's boy" not looking to stray to far from Asheville. The kid also has good potential because his jumper at 6'10 is awesome. His leaping ability is about average, and my real concern is his ability to get out on the court and lay it all on the line. He scores so easily, he seems to be a bit lackidaisical at times, and chooses not to hustle.

His top choice schools seem to hover in NC but I'm thinking with his high-med interest we can sway him in the coming weeks.

[elprez98]

http://colorado.nmn.speedera.net/pics25/200/ZD/ZDMIFHMEMOVGZSC.20041208060645.jpgThe
Courtesy Associated Press
Buffs celebrate after an amazing alleyoop pass by junior, Marcus Hall



Look OUT!!! STAMPEDE!!!!!

Rad 49 Colorado 63

Thursday, December 22nd, 2005
Boulder, Colorado

The Higlanders looked to rebound after their heartbreaking loss against the lowly Hampton Pirates two weeks ago. Heading to the Rocky Mountains, Radford left Virginia to face the (5-2) Colorado Buffaloes in the Balch Fieldhouse. Unfortunately, there was no rebounding against this tough Colorado squad as Radford continued their non-conference slide losing to the 'Buffs 49-63.

The Highlanders couldn't buy a basket shooting a dismal 21% in the 1st half. This poor shooting performance included senior foward, Chris Gooden's 0-10 performance in the 1st half. "It wasn't just that I was forcing shots. Their closing speed defensively was extraordinary. Even if I had that split-second look, they were on me like white on rice, in a glass, on a paperplate, in a snowstorm," Gooden commented.

For the game, the Highlanders managed to squeak out just over 30% shooting, much to the chagrin of their coach. "Anytime your defense is good enough to make Whit defer shooting to the big boys, your defense has got to be very good," added Coach Dillard. The top scorers for the Highlanders came from junior forward, "Big" Chris Oliver and senior center, Ivan Wilson both scoring 10 points in the contest.

With 4 starting seniors, the 'Buffs are easily one of the most experienced teams in the Big 12. However, the Buffaloes offensive power was lead by a reserve senior forward, Andy Osborn, who scored 18 points from a variety of amazing outside jumpers and explosive inside post moves. Colorado also minimized any chance for a comeback by the Highlanders by dominating the defensive glass. Senior foward, Glean Eddy pulled down 12 rebounds, while scoring 9 points. Senior 7'0 center, Lamont Arrington also controlled the boards with 13 rebounds and 4 points.




Players of the Game:
Radford: jr, Chris Oliver, 10 points, assist, 4 rebounds
Buffaloes: sr, Andy Osborn, 18 points, 2 blocks, 4 rebounds

Mr. Longsword:
jr, Chris Oliver: 10 points, assist, 4 rebounds

Highlander Contributions:
sr, Ivan Wilson: 10 points, 3 rebounds
sr, Whit Holcomb-Faye: 8 points, 7 assists, 2 steals, 2 rebounds
so, Branden Smith: 8 points, 2 steals, 2 rebounds

Buffaloes Contributions:
jr, Marcus Hall: 16 points, 5 assists, 2 steals, 5 rebounds
sr, Glean Eddy: 9 points, 3 asissts, steal, 12 rebounds
sr, Lamont Arrington: 4 points, 13 rebounds, assist, steal
sr, Chris Copeland: 8 points, 5 assists, steal, 2 blocks, 5 rebounds

Key Stats:
Rebounds: Radford 22(4) Colorado 34(7)
3 PT shots: Radford 6/20 Colorado 6/10
FG %: Radford: 31% Colorado: 44%
Assists: Radford: 12 Colorado: 21


Injury Report:
Radford: NONE
Colorado: NONE

[elprez98]

December 26th, 2005


http://www.ap.org/media/images/logo.gif
Media Poll Top 25


1. UConn 6-1(Big East)
2. Maryland 8-1(ACC)
3. Xavier 7-0(A-10)
4. Memphis 12-1 (Conf. USA)
5. Kentucky 7-2 (SEC)
6. Arkansas 9-1(SEC)
7. Texas 8-2 (Big 12)
8. Pitt 8-1 (Big East)
9. Michigan 8-2 (Big 10)
10. Duke 6-2(ACC)
----------------------------------------------------------

11. Kansas 7-1 (Big 12)
12. Notre Dame 7-1(Big East)
13. FSU 9-2 (ACC)
14. Oklahoma 6-1 (Big 12)
15. California 10-2 (PAC-10)
16. Villanova 6-1 (Big East)
17. West Virginia 8-0 (Big East)
18. South Carolina 8-1 (SEC
19. Boston College 7-2 (Big East)
20. Charlotte 10-3 (Conf. USA)
21. Gonzaga 8-2 (WCC)
22. North Carolina 8-2 (ACC)
23. Iowa St 6-2 (Big 12)
24. NC State (ACC)
25. Cincinnat 7-3(Conf. USA)

[elprez98]

http://www.bigsouth.org/images/articles/52349_holcomb-faye_2003-RU.jpg
Whit Holcomb-Faye scores 19 in the first half to help the Highlanders cruise to victory over the Gaels



Stopping the Slide

Rad 64 SMC 34

December 27th, 2005
Moraga, Ca-

Coach Dillard and his struggling Highlanders went out to California looking to stop their terrible 3-game losing streak by entering the Office Supply Classic at the McKeon Pavilion. Luckily for Coach Dillard, one player answered the call and the team followed.

Senior guard, Whit Holcomb-Faye showed he his ability to will a win versus a slightly more talented, (6-3) St. Mary-(CA) Gaels. Holcomb-Faye exploded for all of his game high, 19 points in the 1st half. The senior scored inside and outside, even going 2-4 from downtown.

The Gaels, just shooting 21% in the 1st half, had no chance once Holcomb-Faye got started. "We were hoping to slow him down when we switched to the 2-3. He just stepped outside and started knocking down those too. He had a great performance and we just couldn't recover in the 2nd half," commented Daniel Kickert, St. Mary's senior center.

To maintain the lead in the 2nd half, senior and junior forwards, Chris Gooden and Chris Oliver, combined for 27 points to maintain the lead created by Holcomb-Faye's great 1st half. "Whit paved the way, we just walked in the path he blazed.

Its great to have someone who can explode like that becuase it makes it easier for us as a team if they are so focused on stopping him, both Chris(Gooden) and Big Chris(Oliver) can fill it up too. I'm glad we just finally won one more," added sophmore guard, Branden Smith. Smith was no slouch himself adding great looks from the #2 guard position, he ended up with 6 points and 9 assists.

The Gaels were paced by the solide play of their senior center, Daniel Kickert who added 13 points 8 rebounds but From just 5-18 from the field.

The Highlanders have just one more non-conference game on tap. The Highlanders remain in California to play against (6-4) UC-Irvine to crown the Office Supply Tourney champs.

Players of the Game:
Radford: sr guard, Whit Holcomb-Faye, 19 points, 5 assists, 2 rebounds
Gaels: sr center, Daniel Kickert, 13 points, 8 rebounds, 1 steals

Mr. Longsword:
sr guard, Whit Holcomb-Faye, 19 points, 5 assists, 2 rebounds

Highlander Contributions:
jr forward, Chris Oliver, 11 points, 9 rebounds
sr forward, Chris Gooden, 16 points, 7 rebounds, assist, 4/8-3pts
so, guard, Branden Smith, 6 points, 9 assists

Gael Contributions:
fr, Clarence Wentt: 6 points, 5 rebounds, 2 steals


Key Stats:
FG%: Radford 49% SMC: 25%
3pt% Radford 43% SMC:11 %
Steals: Radford 5 SMC: 10

Injury Report:
Radford: NONE
SMC: NONE

[Jackrabbit]

Great to see one of the founding fathers of the legacies continuing.

Been playing NFL for last few months, so I've been neglecting to get the Hoop game for lack of time, so I thought I needed a quick reminder. I come back to this page and see you still representin'

Will be back...

[elprez98]

Great to see one of the founding fathers of the legacies continuing.

Been playing NFL for last few months, so I've been neglecting to get the Hoop game for lack of time, so I thought I needed a quick reminder. I come back to this page and see you still representin'

Will be back...

Thanks jack. Its nice to know someone's reading the journal.

elprez98

[elprez98]

Highlanders Lose Office Supply Classic

Rad 63 UCI 64

Wednesday, December 28th, 2005
Morgana, Ca

Following their first round rout of St. Mary's College in the Office Supply Classic, the Highlanders looked poised to leave the tourney as champions and ready to hit conference play on fire. Unfortunately for the Highlanders, the UCI Anteaters had an opinion to voice as well.

The first half began great for the Highlanders. Radford jumped out to an early lead, 26-15. By halftime, however, UCI had fought back cutting the lead to just four, 26-22.

Radford's senior backcourt, Whit Holcomb-Faye and Chris Goodin, combined for 17 of Radford's 26 first half points. Radford was also very agressive in taking the ball to hoop and making trips to the line(10/15).

"I think we got complacent as the 2nd half was winding down. I honestly can't believe that we let a ten point lead slip away. But don't take anything from UCI, they came out ready to play down the stretch and gave themselves an opportunity to win. My hat goes off to them," commented Coach Dillard.

With 14:36 to play in the 2nd half, Radford looked to pull away following a MONSTER alleyoop from Chris "Fill it Up" Goodin to "Big" Chris Oliver. With the converted three-point play, Radford had a solid ten point lead, 36-26. The Highlanders maintained that lead until about 2:30 left to play.

From there, UCI's senior guard, Ross Schraeder caught fire. Schrader bombed three consecutive shots from downtown cutting the lead to 2, with under 30 seconds remaining. After a couple of basket exchanges and UCI taking the lead, Radford's senior guard, Chris Goodin, hit a three that gave the Higlanders a 63-61 lead, with just 22 seconds left to play.

Then with just six seconds left on the clock, UCI earned the play of the game with Ross Schrader hitting his 7th three-point shot of the game and lifting the Anteaters to the win 64-63.

"It was an emotional rollercoaster. We were in the valley as they were coming back on us. Then when Chris hit the three, we were high again. Then when (Schraeder) hit their three, we we back in the valley," added Radford's senior guard, Andre Bynum who contributed eight points in the contest.

Radford now enters conference play 3-5. Their first conference game is in one week, where they head to Birmingham to face Birmingham-Southern.



Players of the Game:
Radford: sr guard, Chris Goodin, 18 points, 4 assists, 6 rebounds 3/6 3-pts
UCI: sr guard, Ross Schraeder, 24 points, 7/14 3-pts

Mr. Longsword:
sr guard, Chris Goodin, 18 points, 4 assists, 6 rebounds 3/6 3-pts

Highlander Contributions:
so center, Duane Ricks: 4 points, 10 rebounds
sr guard, Whit Holcomb-Faye: 11 points, 5 assists, steal, 3 rebounds
so forward, Dan Ross: 8 points, 2 assists, rebound

Anteater Contributions:
sr guard, Aaron Fitzgerald: 11 points, 3 asissts
sr guard, Jeff Gloger: 4 points, 9 assists
sr guard, Shamar Armstrong: 9 points, 5-5 FT

Key Stats:
3 PT shots: Radford 5/15(3/6 1st half) UCI 7/17(1/6 1st half)
Ft %: Radford:18/28 UCI: 13/19
Bench: Radford: 13 UCI: 19


Injury Report:
Radford: NONE
UCI: NONE

[elprez98]

(thank marinersin05 for the layout)

http://www.bigsouth.org/images/articles/1430_Big%20South.gif
Big South Standings and Statitistical Leaders
Monday, January 2nd, 2006

Big South Standings (As of 1/1/06)
Team, Record, Conference Record
Liberty (6-4, 0-0)
Charleston Southern (3-3, 0-0)
Birmingham Southern (4-5, 0-0)
Radford (3-5, 0-0)
Coastal Carolina (3-6, 0-0)
UNC-Asville (3-6, 0-0)
High Point (2-6, 0-0)
VMI (2-6, 0-0)
Winthrop (2-4, 0-0)



Points per Game Leaders:

Holcomb-Faye, Radford 16.0 ppg
Goodin, Radford: 15.0 ppg
Daniels, Winthrop: 14.4 ppg
Blair, Liberty: 13.5 ppg
Viglianco, BSC: 13.4 ppg

Assists per Game Leaders:

Coward, VMI: 5.5 apg
Stevens, CCU: 5.0 apg
Shuler, Win: 4.7 apg
Blair, Lib: 4.3 apg
Holcomb-Faye, Rad: 4.3 apg

Steals per Game Leaders:

Harrison, ChSo: 2.3 spg
Collins, BSC: 2.2 spg
Blair, Lib: 2.2 spg
Quick, HP: 2.1 spg
Moore, ChSo: 2.0 spg

Blocks per Game Leaders:

Houston, Win: 2.9 bpg
Walker, UNCA: 2.2 bpg
Murrer, VMI: 2.0 bpg
Mankevicius, VMI: 2.0 bpg
Beck, BSC: 1.7 bpg

Rebounds per Game Leaders:

Beck, BSC: 7.8 rpg
Andrew, Lib: 7.5 rpg
Daniels, Win: 7.0 rpg
Jimenez, HP: 6.8 rpg
Ricks, Rad: 6.1 rpg

[elprez98]

http://www.bigsouth.org/images/articles/1430_Big%20South.gif


http://www.libertyflames.com/images/players/Blair,_Larry.jpg
Blair scored 25 and 20, respectively in Liberty's wins over Marist and Seton Hall


Larry Blair Is Named Big South Player of the Week

Monday, January 2nd, 2006

Lynchburg, Va-

Following back-to-back wins over Marist and Seton Hall, Liberty's junior guard, Larry Blair was named Big South Conference Player of the Week. Blair led the Flames over a tough Seton Hall squad with 20 points and 7 assists, while going a near perfect 11-12 from the line. Blair boasts and impressive 13.5 ppg( 4th in conf.), 4.3 apg(4th in conf.), and 2.2 spg (3rd in conf.). The Flames lead the Big South with a 6-4 record.

[elprez98]

January 2nd, 2006


http://www.ap.org/media/images/logo.gif
Media Poll Top 25


1. UConn (8-1) (Big East)
2. Maryland (9-1) (ACC)
3. Xavier (9-0) (A-10)
4. Memphis (13-1) (Conf. USA)
5. Arkansas (11-1)(SEC)
6. Kentucky (8-2) (SEC)
7. Texas (10-2) (Big 12)
8. Oklahoma (9-1) (Big 12)
9. Michigan (10-2) (Big 10)
10. Villanova (7-1) (Big East)
----------------------------------------------------------

11. FSU (11-2) (ACC)
12. Notre Dame (9-1) (Big East)
13. Duke (7-2) (ACC)
14. Kansas (8-1) (Big 12)
15. South Carolina (10-1) (SEC)
16. Cincinnati (10-3) (Conf. USA)
17. Pittsburgh (9-2) (Big East)
18. California (11-3) (PAC-10)
19. NC State (8-2) (ACC)
20. Louisville (6-2) (Conf. USA)
21. Charlotte (10-3) (Conf. USA)
22. Wake Forest (7-3) (ACC)
23. Boston College (8-3) (Big East)
24. Gonzaga (9-3) (WCC)
25. Oral Roberts (7-1) (Mid-Con)

[K Bomber]

Well prez, your team is having some issues, but your written accounts sure aren't. Always a great read and well presented

Almost makes me want to do a new legacy for LIU, although I'm still not done the Long, Hard Road of Major Bone

I'm thinking "Emerging From The Murky Wasteland, The Story of Happy Gasser" -- although I can't see finding the time for it

I think I'll live vicariously through your legacy of Coach Dillard instead...................

[elprez98]

http://www.radford.edu/Athletics/sportsart/mbbpagehd.gif


Highlanders Open Conference Play With A Win

Rad 74 BSC 67

January 4th, 2006
Birmingham, Al-

After a week of rest and the celebration of the new year, the Highlanders headed to the "Magic City," to open Big South interconference play. With three of the conference's top scorers participating, a collision of two high-powered offenses was expected.

For Radford, the game started very well, since they jumped out to an early 15-6 lead. Early on, the Highlanders were paced by strong play from their senior scorer, Chris Goodin, who came out firing on all cylinders. Goodin filled up the stat sheet, scoring 16 of his game high 27 in the first half alone. "I was focused today. The last couple of outings, I hadn't been shooting my best and the team suffered. This time we were executing, Whit was making great play after great play. It was nice out there tonight," added Goodin in a post game interview.

Biirmingham Southern didn't give up easily though. Even though they were down by 10 for most of the first half. A late run as the half ended cut the Highlander lead down to 4, 34-30. Both point guards looked near flawless on the court with Holcomb-Faye dishing out eight assists with no turnovers and McMillian handing out 8 dimes of his own while contributing 4 points.

In the 2nd half, both teams brought a visable desire to win. The Panthers jumped out early scoring eleven unanswered points to lead, 45-36. But of course, the Highlanders couldn't be outdone. Actually, senior guard, Whit Holcomb-Faye WOULDN'T be outdone.

The senior did not score a single point in the first half, but scored 26 in the second half!!! Along with the scoring explosion, Holcomb-Faye added a season-high 12 assists and single-handedly mounted a 22-6 run that gave his team a 58-51 lead with just five minutes remaining.

"Whit is awesome when he starts to feel it. I think he got the first double-double for the team. I think that's great, for our morale, to see our team leader dig deep like Whit did tonight. I doubt if GP in his prime would have been able to slow him down tonight," said sophmore forward, Dan Ross who added 10 points of his own off the bench.

Down the stretch, Holcomb-Faye hit two big freethrows to essentially seal the deal 71-65. The Highlanders went on to win the contest, 74-67. The Highlanders move to 4-5 (1-0), while the Panthers fall to 4-6 (0-1). Radford goes back home to Virginia, this Friday, to host Coastal Carolina. Also on Friday, the Panthers remain at home to host visiting High Point.

Players of the Game:
Radford: sr forward, Chris Goodin: 27 points, 4 rebounds, 4 assists, 5/10 3-pts
Panthers: sr guard, James Collins, 19 points, 2 rebounds

Mr. Longsword:
sr guard, Whit Holcomb-Faye: 26 points, 12 assists, 4 steals, block

Highlander Contributions:
so center, Duane Ricks: 3 points, 10 rebounds
so center, Marcello Ramsdell: 2 points, 2 steals, 11 rebounds, block
so forward, Dan Ross: 10 points

BSC Contributions:
jr guard, Bucky McMillan: 13 points, 12 assists, 4 rebounds
sr forward, Thomas Viglianco: 12 points, 8 rebounds, 2 assists, block
fr center, T.R. Beck: 6 points, 10 rebounds, 3 assists, steal


Key Stats:
FT%:
Radford: 16/23
BSC: 7/9

3pts:
Radford: 10/21 47%
BSC: 4/15 27%

Steals:
Radford: 11
BSC: 3

2nd Chance Points:
Radford: 8
BSC: 2

Injury Report:
Radford: NONE
BSC: NONE

[elprez98]

http://www.radford.edu/Athletics/sportsart/mbbpagehd.gif


Radford Routs Struggling Chanticleers

Rad 69 CCU 48

Friday, January 7th, 2006
Radford, Val-

Radford senior forward, Chris "3plenty" Goodin scored a game high 29, including 5/10 from downtown, in route to a 69-48 win over hapless Coastal Carolina.

Due to early foul trouble, Goodin only played 7 minutes in the 1st half scoring just five points. When Goodin had to sit down for the remainder of the first half, sophmore forward, Dan Ross picked up the slack scoring ten of his twelve points in the first half with Goodin on the bench.

"Quietly, lil' Danny(Ross) has been proving himself more and more. He is definitely one of our most solid contributors off the bench, but I honestly think he's been really impressing Coach for next year when "3plenty"(Goodin), Andre(Bynum), Ivan(Wilson), and I leave this year," commented senior guard, Whit Holcomb-Faye.

The Highlanders beat Coastal Carolina in nearly every statistical catagory, most notably, the 25-4 ouscoring of the Chanticleer bench. "We couldn't do a damn thing right out there. Its a bit embarrassing to watch as the Big South's best three-point shooter gets in the game and drops three after three after three....and you still don't guard him. Luckily for us, Dee(Dillard) is a great sport. If he left that kid in there, he probably would've scored 29 more on us THAT HALF," commented Coastal Carolina Coach, Stan Perry.

Radford has finally hit .500 overall 5-5 and undeafeated in conference play (2-0). Next Friday, Radford heads to South Carolina to play 4-5 (0-2) Charleston Southern.

Players of the Game:
Radford: sr forward, Chris Goodin: 29 points, 2 assists, 5/10 3-pts
Chanticleers: jr guard, Moses Sonko, 16 points, 5 rebounds, 2 assists, steal

Mr. Longsword:
so forward, Dan Ross: 12 points, 4 assists, 3 rebounds

Highlander Contributions:
so center, Marcello Ramsdell: 4 points, 7 rebounds
sr, guard, Whit Holcomb-Fay: 8 points, 4 assists, 2 rebounds
so guard, Branden Smith: 7 points, assist, 2 rebounds

CCU Contributions:
so guard, Jack Leasure: 11 points, assist, 2 rebounds
so forward, Chad Ferguson: 9 points, 12 rebounds, assist
fr center, Moussa Almanson: 6 points, 9 rebounds, steal, block


Key Stats:
Fg%:
Radford: 24/53 (45%)
CCU: 17/51(33%)

3pts:
Radford: 8/20 (40%)
CCU: 1/2 (50%)

Turnovers:
Radford: 3
CCU: 7

Bench Points:
Radford: 25
CCU: 4

Injury Report:
Radford: NONE
CCU: NONE

[elprez98]

http://www.bigsouth.org/images/articles/1430_Big%20South.gif


Radford's Chris Goodin Is Named Big South Player of the Week

Monday, January 9th, 2006
Radford, Va-

Hoping to open conference play strong, the Radford Highlanders have consistently looked to senior, Chris Goodin to answer the call. Leading the conference in 3 pointers made, 3 pointers attempted, and points per game averaging 17.6 ppg and 5.0 rpg. Goodin is a shooting wizard that has burnt most defenders with his awesome range and quick release. In Radford's last two wins, Goodin has scored 27 and 29 against conference rivals Birmingham Southern and Coastal Carolina and looks to be an early candidate for Big South Conference Player of the Year.

[elprez98]

January 9th, 2006


http://www.ap.org/media/images/logo.gif
Media Poll Top 25
green indicates new to Top 25
red indicates negative movement
blue indicates positive movement

1. UConn (9-2) (Big East)
2. Maryland (11-1) (ACC)
3. Memphis (15-1) (Conf. USA)
4. Arkansas (13-1)(SEC)
5. Duke (9-2) (ACC)
6. Kentucky (9-3) (SEC)
7. Michigan (11-3) (Big 10)
8. Cincinnati (12-3) (Conf. USA)
9. California (13-3) (Pac-10)
10. Pittsburgh (11-2) (Big East)
----------------------------------------------------------

11. Kansas (9-2) (Big 12)
12. Xavier (9-2) (A-10)
13. Villanova (8-1) (Big East)
14. NC State (9-2) (ACC)
15. South Carolina (11-2) (SEC)
16. Texas (10-4) (Big 12)
17. Charlotte (11-3) (Conf. USA)
18. Boston College (10-3) (Big East)
19. Michigan State (8-3) (Big 10)
20. Indiana (9-4) (Big 10)
21. Gonzaga (11-3) (WCC)
22. Wake Forest (8-3) (ACC)
23. Nebraska (10-1) (Big 12)
24. Geo. Washington (10-3) (A-10)
25. FSU (10-4) (ACC)

[elprez98]

Well prez, your team is having some issues, but your written accounts sure aren't. Always a great read and well presented

Almost makes me want to do a new legacy for LIU, although I'm still not done the Long, Hard Road of Major Bone

I'm thinking "Emerging From The Murky Wasteland, The Story of Happy Gasser" -- although I can't see finding the time for it

I think I'll live vicariously through your legacy of Coach Dillard instead...................

Thanks bomber,
Looks like we might be able make some noise with the conference schedule, but Liberty looks like they are going to be tough. I think this year's Coach Mode is awesome. I honestly think I'll be playing this one mode/one legacy until 2k6 comes out. I'm looking to get about 10 coached seasons done before 2k6 comes out. I know its gonna be tough to stick it thru...but coaching and playing are so different. I think I'ma get it done. Stay tuned, and thanks for reading. Helps me keep it going.

[elprez98]

http://sports.espn.go.com/i/columnists/ncb_ww_fpo.gif
by Andy Katz
ESPNvideogames.com
January 9th, 2006

SHAFTED ALREADY????

We are about halfway thru the college season and YES, I'm calling my fellow media writers to order. There have been some upsets, some name calling, and some bad bets placed. We'll start with my own personal combination of all three. Last week's column of Contenders, Pretenders and Under the Radar(CPU) featured #1 UConn(Contender) and conference rival #18 Boston College(Pretender). In closing of the column, I gave the impression that Boston College had little or no chance of defeating the Huskies away from Boston. It seems that the BC squad didn't take the column well and I'm pretty sure that Coach Joiner(UConn) is loving me for it as well. It seems that following the column, Boston College promptly went into the Gampel Pavilion and wiped the floor the Huskies, 99-80 (but somehow they stayed #1?). Again Coach Joiner, I apologize for that one. BUT, the very next game the Eagles came back home and lost to Providence, so I couldn't be too wrong, right?








Contenders
http://graphics.fansonly.com/photos/schools/mem/sports/m-baskbl/auto_action/93390.jpeg
courtesy of http://gotigersgo.collegesports.com/
sophmore, Darius Washington is coming on strong following a "diaper-dandy" freshman season


#3-ESPN/AP Polls, Memphis Tigers
How do you define "shafted?" How about being ranked #3 in both the Media and Coaches Poll after defeating 3 ranked opponents, #16 Texas (10-4), #10 Pittsburgh (11-2), and handing #2 ranked Maryland (11-1) their only loss of the season. Not only that, but you watch as the #1 ranked team in the country loses AGAIN, AND you have #1 RPI ranking in the land...yes that's shafted. But honestly, I don't think Coach Chancler his Tigers are worried. They have arguably the player in the country in junior forward, Sean Banks(Overall:93, best this year) who averages 19.5ppg, 3.6apg, 6.5rbg, 1.9bpg and can jump OUT of the gym. That also doesn't mention his trio of help in senior, Rodney Carney, sophmore sensation, Darius Washington and senior, Jeremy Hunt. These guys are the REAL DEAL.






Pretenders
http://www.texassports.com/images/mbbimages/2004_05/aldridge_lamarcus/aldridge_lamarcus_340_40.jpg
Texas has a lot of young talent, but losses to Coppin St. and Baylor show inexperience


#10/#16 ESPN/AP Poll-Texas Longhorns
Texas has a huge amount of depth(only 2 player rated below 77), but unfortunately, there is no starting senior. Though UT-Austin is loaded with talent, their inexperience shows when they cannot put away easy opponents like Coppin State. With nobody scoring over 11ppg, the offense is well spread, but there is no solid offensive leadership, which is something this squad sorely needs.




Under the Radar
http://huskers.nmn.speedera.net/pics15/200/CV/CVYMTHSEYOYSVPM.20040113160312.jpg
Senior Wes Wilkerson is having his best season averaging 12.7ppg, 4.7rbg, 2.3spg, 2.4 apg


unranked/#23-Nebraska 'Huskers
The 'Huskers are one of those teams that you're not sure about. On paper, they don't look as if they won't be able to compete with Texas, Texas A&M, and Iowa State because there is no bonafide star for the Huskers.

However with the strong play of senior forward, Wes Wilkerson(12ppg, 4.7rbg, 2.4apg) junior guard, Jason Dourisseau(14.5ppg, 4.8rpg, 2.7apg) and sophmore phenom, center Alex Maric who averages 12.1ppg and 5.5ppg. With quality wins over UAB (10-5), Marquette, and UT(8-5) Nebraska may look to surprise some coming out of the Big-12.

[elprez98]

(thank marinersin05 for the layout)

http://www.bigsouth.org/images/articles/1430_Big%20South.gif
Big South Standings and Statitistical Leaders
Monday, January 9th, 2006

Big South Standings (As of 1/8/06)
Team, Record, Conference Record
Liberty (8-4, 2-0)
Radford (5-5, 2-0)
UNC-Asville (4-6, 1-0)
VMI (4-4, 1-0)
Birmingham Southern (6-5, 1-1)
Coastal Carolina (4-7, 1-1)
Charleston Southern (4-5, 0-2)
High Point (2-8, 0-2)
Winthrop (3-9, 0-2)



Points per Game Leaders:
Goodin, Radford: 17.6.0 ppg
Holcomb-Faye, Radford 16.2 ppg
Dees, Liberty: 15.9 ppg
Shuler, Winthrop: 14.6 ppg
Viglianco, BSC: 13.8 ppg

Assists per Game Leaders:
Stevens, CCU: 5.5 apg
Blair, Lib: 5.0 apg
Holcomb-Faye, Rad: 5.0.3 apg
Coward, VMI: 4.9 apg
Shuler, Win: 4.3 apg

Steals per Game Leaders:
Blair, Lib: 2.2 spg
Collins, BSC: 2.1 spg
Harrison, ChSo: 2.0 spg
Quick, HP: 2.0 spg
Moore, ChSo: 1.8 spg

Blocks per Game Leaders:
Houston, Win: 2.7 bpg
Walker, UNCA: 2.1 bpg
Mankevicius, VMI: 2.0 bpg
Cain, ChSo: 1.6 bpg
Andrew, Lib: 1.4 bpg

Rebounds per Game Leaders:
Beck, BSC: 8.2 rpg
Daniels, Win: 7.3 rpg
Andrew, Lib: 7.2 rpg
Ricks, Rad: 6.7 rpg
Walker, UNCA: 6.4 rpg

[elprez98]

http://www.radford.edu/Athletics/sportsart/mbbpagehd.gif


Highlanders Remain Unbeaten In Conference Play
It was over before it started....
Rad 64 CSU 48

January 9th, 2006
Radford, Va-

Confidence is the key to victory.

By the looks it, the Highlanders had their own set of keys AND Charleston-Southern's set in their back pocket. With senior guard, Whit Holcomb-Faye playing just 11 minutes(still 6 points, 2 assists, 3 steals) due to foul trouble, the Highlanders looked to senior guard, Andre Bynum for production and he delievered. Scoring thirteen points and dishing out seven assists, Bynum looked spectacular on the court.

"Andre is quiet out there. He's like a silent assassin. You'd don't know that he killed you until you're looking at your own dead shell. Hmm, that was bit graphic wasn't it," joked Coach Dillard.

The great bench play didn't stop there. Sophmore forward, Dan Ross also came off the bench giving a solid eleven point effort while senior center, Ivan Wilson blocked four shots to go along with his four points and five rebounds. The quality bench production coupled with decent play from Radford's other starters( Goodin: 18 points, 2 assists, 5 rebounds/ Oliver: 6 points, 2 assists, 9 rebounds, block) cruised the Highlanders to an easy 64-48 victory.

Now (3-0) in conference, Radford heads south to visit ailing Winthrop (3-9, 0-2) on Friday.


Players of the Game:
Radford: sr forward, Chris Goodin: 18 points, 5 rebounds, 2 assists
CSU: sr guard, Thomas Harrison, 13 points, 3 rebounds, 2 assists

Mr. Longsword:
sr guard, Andre Bynum: 13 points, 7 assists, 2 steals

Highlander Contributions:
jr forward, Chris Oliver: 6 points, 9 rebounds
sr center, Ivan Wilson: 2 points, 2 steals, 11 rebounds, block
so forward, Dan Ross: 11 points

BSC Contributions:
jr center, Carter Stiglbauer: 10 points, 6 rebounds
sr guard, Mario Williams: 8 points, 11 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steals
sr guard, Terrell Brown: 8 points, 4 assists, blockl
so forward, V.J. Fails: 5 points, 2 assists, steal, 6 rebounds

Key Stats:
FT%:
Radford: 5/10
CSU: 19/27

3pts:
Radford: 7/21 33%
CSU: 1/5 20%

Steals:
Radford: 10
CSU: 5

2nd Chance Points:
Radford: 7
CSU: 0

Bench Pts:
Radford: 30
CSU: 4

Injury Report:
Radford: NONE
CSU: NONE

[elprez98]

http://www.bigsouth.org/images/articles/1430_Big%20South.gif


http://www.libertyflames.com/images/players/Dees,_David.jpg
Dees leads a talented Liberty squad in scoring, averaging 16.7ppg, 3.8apg, 3.3rpg


Liberty's David Dees Is Named Big South Player of the Week

Monday, January 16th, 2006

Lynchburg, Va-

Picking up his level of play in conference, David Dees is starting to look like a man among boys. The 6'6, 204lb junior is becoming the focal point of all Big South Conference defenses but no one seems to have an answer. Dees has catapulted to #2 in the conference in scoring at just under 17ppg. In his last outing, Dees led all scorers with 20 points and 4 assists in a 69-50 victory over Coastal Carolina. The Flames have ignited behing his strong play, winning six straight, on their way to a conference leading, 10-4 (4-0) record.

[elprez98]

(thank marinersin05 for the layout)

http://www.bigsouth.org/images/articles/1430_Big%20South.gif
Big South Standings and Statitistical Leaders
Monday, January 9th, 2006

Big South Standings (As of 1/15/06)
Team, Record, Conference Record
1. Liberty (10-4, 5-0)
2. Radford (7-5, 4-0)
3. High Point (5-8, 3-2)
4. Birmingham Southern (7-6, 2-2)
5. UNC-Asville (5-9, 1-0)
6 .VMI (4-6, 1-2)
7. Winthrop (4-10, 1-3)
8. Coastal Carolina (5-9, 2-3)
9. Charleston Southern (4-8, 0-5)




Points per Game Leaders:
Goodin, Radford: 17.7 ppg
Dees, Liberty: 16.9 ppg
Holcomb-Faye, Radford 15.3 ppg
Collins, BSC: 14.7 ppg
Shuler, Winthrop: 14.2 ppg


Assists per Game Leaders:
Stevens, CCU: 5.4 apg
Coward, VMI: 5.3 apg
Holcomb-Faye, Rad: 4.8 apg
Blair, Lib: 4.7 apg
Shuler, Win: 4.2 apg

Steals per Game Leaders:
Blair, Lib: 2.3 spg
Collins, BSC: 2.0 spg
Quick, HP: 1.8 spg
Harrison, ChSo: 1.7 spg
Coward, VMI: 1.7 spg

Blocks per Game Leaders:
Houston, Win: 2.5 bpg
Walker, UNCA: 2.6 bpg
Mankevicius, VMI: 1.8 bpg
Cain, ChSo: 1.7 bpg
Beck, BSC: 1.5 bpg

Rebounds per Game Leaders:
Beck, BSC: 8.0 rpg
Daniels, Win: 8.3 rpg
Andrew, Lib: 7.7 rpg
Ricks, Rad: 6.9 rpg
Oliver, Rad: 6.9 rpg

[elprez98]

January 16th, 2006


http://www.ap.org/media/images/logo.gif
Media Poll Top 25
green indicates new to Top 25
red indicates negative movement
blue indicates positive movement

1. UConn (11-3) (Big East)
2. Maryland (13-1) (ACC)
3. Memphis (17-1) (Conf. USA)
4. Kentucky (11-3) (SEC)
5. Michigan (13-3) (Big 10)
6. Duke (10-3) (ACC)
7. Villanova (10-2) (Big East)
8. California (12-4) (Pac-10)
9. Pittsburgh (12-2) (Big East)
10. NC State (11-2) (ACC)
-------------------------------------------------------------------
11. Arkansas (13-3)(SEC)
12. Gonzaga (13-3) (WCC)
13. Iowa State (11-3) (Big 12)
14. Indiana (10-4) (Big 10)
15. Kansas (10-3) (Big 12)
16. Xavier (10-3) (A-10)
17. South Carolina (11-2) (SEC)
18. West Virginia (12-2) (Big East)
19. Texas (11-6) (Big 12)
20. Charlotte (12-4) (Conf. USA)
21. Cincinnati (12-5) (Conf. USA)
22. Geo. Washington (11-4) (A-10)
23. FSU (11-5) (ACC)
24. Oral Roberts (10-2) (Mid-Con)
25. Boston College (10-4) (Big East)
-------------------------------------------------------------------

[elprez98]

http://sports.espn.go.com/i/columnists/ncb_ww_fpo.gif
by Andy Katz
ESPNvideogames.com
January 16th, 2006

Creme of the Cra...I mean Crop?

As we are just gettting over the halfway point, and the leaders become clearer.....I wonder where my fellow Top 25 voters left their glasses when they cast this week's ballots. Clearly, UConn should not be the #1 ranked team in the country anymore. After an early season loss to (10-4) Northeastern and losses to conference rivals, #25 Boston College and (10-5) Seton Hall, the Huskies aren't even the best in the Big East! A very tough and capable (13-1)#2 Maryland squad and, even more formidable, (17-1)#3 Memphis team (who gave the Terps their only loss so far this season) are two teams that should've have over taken the underachieving Huskies two weeks ago.





Contenders
http://www.ukathletics.com/img/mbb_121804_azubuike2_tn.jpg
courtesy of ukathletics.com
senior, Kelenna Azubuike is hoping to lead the 'Cats out of Lexington and on to the promise land


#4-ESPN Coaches/AP Polls, (11-3, 2-1) Kentucky Wildcats

Tubby Smith has not missed a beat. Even with the departure of Hayes to the Association, Coach Smith has Lexington, Ky looking for their 7th NCAA title and this year's team has the potential. With returning starters, senior Patrick Sparks and Kelenna Azubuike(14.4ppg, 4.8rpg, 2.4 apg, 1.6 spg) leading this year's team, the Wildcats may make a little dance this year. A big addition to the team has been the "man among boys" type play of freshman forward, Reggie Sutton who averages 10.6ppg, 5.1 rpg, and 1.7 bpg. With this 6'10 monster in the post, and sophmore star, Rajon Rondo coming off the bench and scoring nearly at will(14.4ppg, 3.1apg), the Cats are a force to be reckoned with in the SEC and across the nation.


Pretenders
http://www.ucbearcats.com/photos/2058.jpg
image courtesy of ucbearcats.com


#18/21-ESPN Coaches/AP Polls, (12-5, 2-2) Cincinnati Bearcats

The Bearcats have been at best average this season, managing just two wins versus teams with winning records this year. This lack of produtions was noticed, and now the Bearcats have fallen from #8 in both polls to #18 and #21 in the ESPN Coaches and Media Polls, respectively. The Bearcats don't seem as hungry following the departure of All-American Jason Maxiell but there is still hope. Despite losing to both East Carolina and and Louisville in conference play this year, the Bearcats look to rebound on the strength of senior forward, Eric Hicks who is 2nd in the conference in rebounding. Coupling that play with the outstanding play of senior, Armein Kirkland(15.2ppg, 4.2 rpg, 4.0 apg, 1.9 spg) the Bearcats can still have a chance to make it off the Pretenders list.



Under the Radar
http://www.tribeathletics.com/uploaded/images/sportimg3.jpg
junior, Cory Cofield has shown outstanding play this season and an opportunity to be Colonial Conf. Player of the Year


unranked/unranked-(12-5, 5-0) William and Mary Tribe

The Tribe have been outstanding this year pulling off not one, but TWO major upsets this year. The first being an early season meeting at George Washington, and a twenty-point "caning" of the Tarheels IN Chapel Hill. This team may not make it to the Final Four, but if they make it to the Big Dance, I'd hate to be the higher seed that has to contend with a team of winners.

[elprez98]

http://www.radford.edu/Athletics/sportsart/mbbpagehd.gif
http://www.vmikeydets.com/images/articles/65407_w2.jpg
Highlanders Win 5th Straight in the Big South
Radford's 2nd half defensive showing buries VMI
Rad 69 VMI 48

January 18th, 2006
Lexington, Va


With an awesome defensive showing in the 2nd half, the Highlanders have
won their fifth straight Big South conference matchup, the latest
against the VMI Keydets, 69-48.

The Highlanders had four players in double figures, led by sophmore
forward, Marcello Ramsdell who scored 12 points and grabbed 10 boards
to pick up his 1st double-double of the year. <br>

"Its a great feeling to finally get a really good game in. Coming from
a "juco" I knew I just had to find my niche with our team. I got some
great feeds inside when I got position, and luckily I converted. It was
good," commented the 6'10, 228 lb transfer.

The first half was a lot closer being than the ending score showed.
VMI, following a 12-2 run to end the half, pulled within 5 at halftime,
34-29. But Coach Dillard's defense first philosophy was presented in
all of its glory in the 2nd half, holding the Keydets to just
7-23(30.4%) shooting.

"They looked like a team in the 2nd half. I commend the guys for
going out there and getting it done," Coach Dillard commented happily.

VMI was paced by junior guard, Jack Castleberry who scored ten
points in just nine minutes of 1st half play. Surprisingly, Castleberry
was never reinserted in 2nd half and the VMI coach would not comment on
his reasoning other than "disciplinary measures."

The Highlanders now 8-5 overall and 5-0 in conference playhead back
home to face one of the more talented(yet underachieving) teams in the
Big South, High Point (4-9 overall, 3-5) on Saturday.

Players of the Game
Radford: so forward, Marcello Ramsdell: 12 points, 10 rebounds, 2 steals, 2 blocks
VMI: jr guard, Jack Castleberry, 10 points, 9 minutes


Mr. Longsword:
so guard, Brenden Smith: 13 points, 6/8 fg


Highlander Contributions:
sr forward, Chris Goodin: 14 points, 4 rebounds, 2 steals
sr guard, Whit Holcomb-Faye: 11 points, 2 steals, 8 assists
so center, Duane Ricks: 6 rebounds, 3 blocks, 3 steals


VMI Contributions:
jr guard, Matt Coward: 40 minutes, 2 points, 8 assists


Key Stats:
FT%:
Radford: 12/14
VMI: 5/6

3pts:
Radford: 5/17 33%
VMI: 1/6 20%

Steals:
Radford: 15
VMI: 8

Radford:22
VMI: 15

Injury Report:
Radford: NONE
VMI: NONE

[AIRjordan23]

this is my first time looking at this but great job with it.

[elprez98]

this is my first time looking at this but great job with it.

'preciate cha.....

[elprez98]

http://www.radford.edu/Athletics/sportsart/mbbpagehd.gif
http://www.bigsouth.org/images/articles/51038_H-Faye-RU.jpg

Highlanders Keep Rolling With 6th Straight Win
High Point had no answer for Holcomb-Faye
Rad 55 HP 42

January 21st, 2006
Radford, Va-

The Highlanders played great defense, en route to their 6th straight
victory. Radford's senior guard, scored 19 points, including a perfect
10-10 display at the freethrow line. "I did nothing but concentrate
when I was at the line and it paid off," commented Holcomb-Faye.

The Highlanders are now 9-5 overall and 6-0 in conference and head to North Carolina to face UNC-Asheville(6-9 overall, 3-3 in conference).

Player of the Game:
Radford: sr guard, Whit Holcomb-Faye: 19 points, 4/9 FG, 10-10 FT, 5 assists, 2 steals

[elprez98]

January 23rd, 2006


http://www.ap.org/media/images/logo.gif
Media Poll Top 25
green indicates new to Top 25
red indicates negative movement
blue indicates positive movement

1. Maryland (15-1) (ACC)

2. Memphis (19-1) (Conf. USA)
3. UConn (12-3) (Big East)
4 Duke (12-3) (ACC)
5. Villanova (12-2) (Big East)
6. Arkansas (15-3)(SEC)
7. Kentucky (12-4) (SEC)
8. Michigan (14-4) (Big 10)
9. Gonzaga (15-3) (WCC)
10. Iowa State (12-3) (Big 12)
-------------------------------------------------------------------
11. Pittsburgh (13-3) (Big East)
12. NC State (12-3) (ACC)
13. South Carolina (13-3) (SEC)
14. Geo. Washington (13-4) (A-10)
15. California (14-5) (Pac-10)
16. Michigan St. (10-4) (Big 10)
17. Indiana (11-5) (Big 10)
18. Texas (12-6) (Big 12)
19. Cincinnati (13-6) (Conf. USA)
20. UTEP (12-3) (WAC)
21. FSU (12-6) (ACC)
22. Oral Roberts (11-3) (Mid-Con)
23. Wisconsin (11-5) (Big 10)
24. Southern Miss (10-3) (Conf. USA)
25. Charlotte (12-6) (Conf. USA)
-------------------------------------------------------------------

[elprez98]

(thank marinersin05 for the layout)

http://www.bigsouth.org/images/articles/1430_Big%20South.gif
Big South Standings and Statitistical Leaders
Monday, January 23rd, 2006

Big South Standings (As of 1/22/06)
Team, Record, Conference Record
1. Liberty (12-4, 6-0)
2. Radford (9-5, 6-0)
3. UNC-Asville (6-9, 3-3)
4. Charleston Southern (7-7, 3-4)
5. Coastal Carolina (5-10, 2-4)
6. High Point (4-10, 2-5)
7. Winthrop (5-11, 2-4)
8. Birmingham Southern (7-9, 2-5)
9 .VMI (4-8, 1-4)




Points per Game Leaders:
Goodin, Radford: 16.6 ppg
Dees, Liberty: 16.4 ppg
Holcomb-Faye, Radford 15.3 ppg
Shuler, Winthrop: 14.6 ppg
Martin, Winthrop: 13.6 ppg

Assists per Game Leaders:
Stevens, CCU: 5.1 apg
Blair, Lib: 5.1 apg
Holcomb-Faye, Rad: 5.0 apg
Coward, VMI: 4.7 apg
Garland, UNCA: 4.5 apg

Steals per Game Leaders:
Blair, Lib: 2.1 spg
Collins, BSC: 2.1 spg
Quick, HP: 1.9 spg
Harrison, ChSo: 1.9 spg
Coward, VMI: 1.7 spg

Blocks per Game Leaders:
Houston, Win: 2.4 bpg
Walker, UNCA: 2.3 bpg
Mankevicius, VMI: 1.7 bpg
Konare, HP: 1.4 bpg
Beck, BSC: 1.4 bpg

Rebounds per Game Leaders:
Daniels, Win: 7.9 rpg
Beck, BSC: 7.7 rpg
Weddborn, Lib: 6.9 rpg
Andrew, Lib: 6.8 rpg
Oliver, Rad: 6.6 rpg

[elprez98]

[quote="elprez98"]http://www.radford.edu/Athletics/sportsart/mbbpagehd.gif
http://graphics.fansonly.com/photos/schools/unca/sports/m-baskbl/auto_action/105554.jpeg
K.J. Garland hits an amazing 11 straight freethrows down the stretch to seal the victory for the Bulldogs


UNCA Ends Highlander Win Streak at Six
UNCA outmuscled Radford inside all game
Rad 81 UNCA 85

January 24th, 2006
Asheville, NC

The Highlanders left Asheville knowing that they were outhustled by the Bulldogs.

Even as the game began, the Bulldogs looked focused on winning at home today. Getting up by as much as eight in the first half, Radford began to see the first real competitive matchup since starting their conference schedule.

"These guys are better than many people think. Mohn and Walker killed us on the glass, and both Mohn and Holmes have a very dangerous midrange J. I take a lot of the blame since I didn't scout UNCA as heavily as I should've," commented Coach Dillard.

By halftime, the Highlanders took a three point lead, 38-35, backed by the strong play of senior guard, Whit Holcomb-Faye. Holcomb-Faye scored 18 of his game high, 30 points, in the first half. "With Chris(Gooden) not shooting well tonight, Whit attempted to carry the scoring load himself. Though it was a valiant effort, unfortunately for us, it wasn't enough. But you cannot question this kid's heart. Every team needs someone like Whit to grind in a win or a loss," added one of Radford's assistant coaches, Jibran Stallworth.

In the 2nd half, the Highlanders couldn't stop the Bulldogs inside game where the Highlanders where outscored, 32-15. "We were knocking down our shots, and C.J.(Walker) had the boards "on lock." This was a great win for us," commented UNCA senior forward, Oliver Holmes who added 11 rebounds of his own.


Now with their first conference loss of the season, the Highlanders (9-6, 6-1) will lick their wounds and head home to host, the conference leading, Liberty Flames(13-4, 7-0). The Flames are playing true to their namesake, with an impressive nine-game win streak including seven straight conference wins.



Players of the Game
Radford: sr guard, Whit Holcomb-Faye: 30 points, 5/14 3pts, 8 assists, 4 steals
UNCA: jr guard, K.J. Garland: 24 points, 14/18 FT, 7 assists, 40 minutes


Mr. Longsword:
jr forward, Chris Oliver: 11 points, 11 rebounds


Highlander Contributions:
sr forward, Chris Goodin: 12 points, 2/8 3pts
sr guard, Andre Bynum: 8 points, 11 assists
so guard, Brenden Smith: 6 points 4 rebounds, 2 steals, 2 assists


UNCA Contributions:
sr guard, Omar Collinton: 19 points, 8/13 FG, 6 rebounds, 5 assists, 2 steals
sr forward, Oliver Holmes: 19 points, 7/11 FG, 4 rebounds, 2 assists, steal
sr forward, Chad Mohn: 10 points, 11(3) rebounds, 2 assists, steal
jr center, C.J. Walker: 2 points, 14 rebounds


Key Stats:
FT%:
Radford: 11/14
UNCA: 25/32

3pts:
Radford: 8/27 29%
VMI: 2/5 40%

Rebounds:
Radford: 30(3)
VMI: 43(7)

PiP:
Radford:15
VMI: 32

[KeeperEUSC]

I've been homesick the past few days, and in my time read your entire old Legacy and this one. Great stuff, I look forward to reading more.

[elprez98]

I've been homesick the past few days, and in my time read your entire old Legacy and this one. Great stuff, I look forward to reading more.

I appreciate the kudos. Honestly, I thought just me and Bomber were reading it!!!!lol :D

[elprez98]

http://www.radford.edu/Athletics/sportsart/mbbpagehd.gif
http://www.bigsouthsports.com/images/articles/52503_Dees-LU_copy.jpg
Dees scored 39 points in Liberty's 12 point victory over the Highlanders


Radford Gets Burned By REDHOT Flames
Liberty's Dees make the Higlanders feel the fire
Rad 65 Lib 53

January 28th, 2006
Radford, VA

After the heartbreaking four point loss to UNCA, the Highlanders headed back home to host the 13-4, conference leading, Liberty Flames.

From the outset, the Highlanders didn't have a chance. Liberty's leading scorer, David Dees decided to single-handedly drown Radford in 3-point rain. Scoring the Flames first 11 of 13 points, Dees hit 5 of his game high, 8 long balls in the first half.

On the other hand, Radford's two top scoring guards, Holcomb-Faye and Gooden, combined for just 7-42 from the field. "We couldn't throw a rock in the ocean. Chris(Gooden) and I didn't do what we had to do and the team suffered for it," Holcomb-Faye humbly replied.


Now with a 2nd conference loss of the season, the Highlanders (9-7, 6-2) fall to second place behind the first place Flames (14-4, 8-0). Radford will remain at home to host the Birmingham Southern Panthers (7-9, 2-5). The Highlanders won the first meeting between these two squads, 74-67.



Players of the Game
Radford: jr forward, Chris Oliver: 9 points, 17 rebounds,
Liberty: jr forward, David Dees: 39 points, 8-24 3-pts, 2 assists, 7 rebounds


Mr. Longsword:
so guard, Branden Smith: 13 points, 2 rebounds, 3 assists


Highlander Contributions:
sr forward, Chris Goodin:8 points, 3/18 FG, 2/12 3-pts
sr guard, Whit Holcomb-Faye: 11 points, 4/24 FG, 1/9 3-pts, 6 assists


Flames Contributions:
jr guard, Larry Blair: 10 points, 4/14 FG, 4 rebounds
sr guard, Jeremy Monceaux : 8 points, 3/8 FG, 3 rebounds, 12 assists, 2 steals
sr center, Christian Weddborn: 8 points, 17(3) rebounds
fr forward, B.J. Andrew: 0 points, 10 rebounds


Key Stats:

FT%:
Radford: 9/13
Liberty: 9/11

3pts:
Radford: 4/29 13.7%
Liberty: 10/34 29.4%

Rebounds:
Liberty: 50(2)
Radford: 48(7)

[elprez98]

[quote]January 30th, 2006


http://www.ap.org/media/images/logo.gif
Media Poll Top 25
green indicates new to Top 25
red indicates negative movement
blue indicates positive movement

1. Memphis (21-1) (Conf. USA)

2. UConn (19-1) (Big East)
3. Maryland (15-3) (ACC)
4 Duke (14-3) (ACC)
5. Villanova (14-2) (Big East)
6. Arkansas (16-3)(SEC)
7. Gonzaga (16-3) (WCC)
8. NC State (12-3) (ACC)
9. Pittsburgh (14-3) (Big East)
10. Kentucky (13-5) (SEC)
11. Michigan (15-5) (Big 10)
12. Iowa State (13-4) (Big 12)
-------------------------------------------------------------------
13. Texas (14-6) (Big 12)
14. South Carolina (14-4) (SEC)
15. Cincinnati (15-6) (Conf. USA)
16. Geo. Washington (13-4) (A-10)
17. UTEP (14-3) (WAC)
18. Michigan St. (11-5) (Big 10)
19. Indiana (12-6) (Big 10)
20. Wisconsin (11-5) (Big 10)
21. FSU (12-6) (ACC)
22. Oral Roberts (11-3) (Mid-Con)
23. Louisville (12-6) (Conf. USA)
24. Southern Miss (10-3) (Conf. USA)
25. California (14-7) (Pac-10)
-------------------------------------------------------------------

[KeeperEUSC]

Oral Roberts top 25? you have to be kidding with me there. Wish me luck coaching the Great Danes.

[Anonymous]

Oral Roberts was in my top 25 the whole year along with Murray State.

[elprez98]

http://www.radford.edu/Athletics/sportsart/mbbpagehd.gif



Radford Gets Back On The Ball With Win Over Birmingham



Oliver gets his 4th double-double of the season
Rad 80 BSC 67

January 30th, 2006
Radford, VA

After a humiliating loss at the hands of the Liberty Flames late last week, the Highlanders hoped to regain a bit of swagger and stop the back-to-back slide with a potential win against the struggling Panthers. Behind a strong 18 points and 13 rebounds performance by junior forward, Chris Oliver, the Highlanders got back on track with a win, 80-67.

"We were determined to not let that last loss carry into this game, especially Big Chris(Oliver). We needed that extra effort, and his determination kinda fed everyone else," added senior Chris Gooden who scored 20 of his game high 28 in the 2nd half.

Early on, the Panthers hit a minor road block when senior sharpshooter, James Collins, got into foul trouble with over 15 minutes remaining in the 1st half. Following that, junior point guard and floor general, Bucky McMillian earned his 2nd personal with 9:24 still in the 1st half.

"When those two guys had to sit down, I knew that our chances to win would increase 10-fold. And with Big Chris(Oliver) playing like he did today, he made us look real good as coaches," commented Radford's ambitious AC, Jesse Connolly.

"Its funny, when you watch the game and have an awesome offensive output from an unexpected force, everyone commends him. However, if you were heading to the lockerroom with us, you would understand, like Big Chris did, that Whit(Holcomb-Faye)'s 15 assists this game is even more impressive. Especially for Whit because we know he loves to shoot the **** ball," said a jovial Coach Dillard.

There is plenty of wiggle room left for the Big South conference, with most teams having seven conference matches left to play. With the win, the Highlanders remain in 2nd place in the conference(10-7, 7-2). The underachieving Panthers continue to slide in 9th place in the conference(7-11, 2-7). The Highlanders now head to South Carolina to face Charleston-Southern(8-8, 4-5).



Players of the Game
Radford: sr forward, Chris Goodin: 28 points, 9/27FG, 5 rebounds
Bir-South: sr forward, Thomas Viglianco: 20 points, 6-7 FT, 10 rebounds


Mr. Longsword:
jr forward, Chris Oliver: 18 points, 13 rebounds, 3 steals 9/12FG


Highlander Contributions:
so guard, Branden Smith:6 points, 6 assists
sr guard, Whit Holcomb-Faye: 18 points, 15 assists, 3 steals, 2 TO


Panthers Contributions:
jr guard, Bucky McMillian: 16 points, 2/10 3pts, 4 assists, 2 steals
sr guard, James Colliins: 13 points, 5/13 FG, 3 rebounds, 3 assists
so center, Benjamin Bone: 6 points, 10 rebounds


Key Stats:

FG%:
Radford: 30/70 .429
BSC:25/64, .391

3pts:
Radford: 14/20 13.7%
BSC: 12/15 29.4%

Assists:
Radford: 27
BSC: 18

[elprez98]

http://www.radford.edu/Athletics/sportsart/mbbpagehd.gif



Radford Handles The Bucs With Ease

Goodin scores 30 points

Rad 74 BSC 57

February 4th, 2006
Charleston, SC

...postgame interview with Coach Dillard........

Reporter 1: Coach Dillard, you're in the home stretch of the season and I'm sure you're happy with the win today. What do you think was the key to victory?

Coach Dillard: Well gals and guys, I think that we really team ball all around today. I mean, there wasn't too much unselfishness, we had two players in double-digit assists and i think that's awesome and how the game is supposed to be played. The bench "mob" was awesome today, coming in and taking a lot of pressure off of the starters. It was a good all-around effort, in my humble opinion.

Reporter 2: I know that you have couple games to play before you play the Flames again, and if you didn't know the Flames lost in overtime today to Birmingham-Southern. With that happening how big does that Liberty game become?

Coach Dillard: Actually Denise, I didn't know that. I'm sure that you guys are licking your chops for that game, but we still have VMI and Winthrop to play and in this game, anything can happen. Their loss does up our hopes for a conference title, but we'd like to worry about Winthrop and VMI first.

Before another question is asked, Coach Dillard politely interrupts:

Coach Dillard: And before anyone asks, no I don't plan to leave Radford this year. We are trying build more than a program here. We also trying to have the men here leave here with more than basketball. We want them to understand life. But on a lighter note, we have opened something for you guys. I've posted a poll for all the Highlander fans out there. Instead of the coaches voting on team MVP this year, we've decided to let you guys decide. So for all you Highlanders out there watching this on cable, or listening on the radio, or even just reading a short highlight of us in the sports section, go to www.2ksports.com (http://www.2ksports.com/community/forums/viewtopic.php?p=516474#516474) and vote for this year's MVP. Thanks for your time.

End of Interview


Players of the Game
Radford: sr forward, Chris Goodin: 30 points, 9/19FG, 5 rebounds, 6-10 3-pts
Char-South: sr guard, Mario Williams: 10 points, 3-11 FG, 10 rebounds


Mr. Longsword:
jr forward, Chris Oliver: 16 points, 9 rebounds, 7-13FG


Highlander Contributions:
so guard, Branden Smith:4 points, 11 assists, 2 rebounds, 2 steals, 2 TO
sr guard, Whit Holcomb-Faye: 11 points, 10 assists, 1 steal, 7 TO
so center, Duane Ricks: 2 points, 7 rebounds, 3 blocks, steal


Bucs Contributions:
sr guard, Terrell Brown: 13 points, 1/10 3pts, 2 steals, 5 TO
sr guard, Thomas Harrison: 15 points, 5/10 FG, 3 rebounds, 4 assists
so forward, V.J. Fails: 5 points, 12 rebounds, 2/13 FG


Key Stats:

Assists:
Radford: 24
CSU: 16

Blocks:
Radford: 8
CSU: 1

[elprez98]

http://www.radford.edu/Athletics/sportsart/mbbpagehd.gif



Radford goes Postal on Coastal For 3rd Straight Win



Oliver has a monster all-around game
Rad 63 CCU 43

February 6th, 2006
Conway, SC

Coach Dillard and his resurgent Highlanders are rolling on all cylinders yet again. This time in Kembel Center in Conway, the Highlanders squared up against a struggling Coastal Carolina squad.

In the beginning, it looked like the Chanticleers were poised, jumping out to an early 7-2 lead. Then when Radford's star forward, Chris Goodin, picked up 2 quick fouls within the first two minutes of the game, things started to look more grim.

"Its funny, because I know when I picked up my second foul that quickly, I could see their whole teams' eyes light up. Coach knew I was already feeling a bit under the weather and my shot was way off anyway. Coach and I hadn't planned to play me heavy minutes, anyway. But little did they know, about "Rams"(Marcello Ramsdell) and "E"(Branden Smith). When those two get going, its like being out on the playground somewhere," laughed in between coughs.

On the playground was right. There were eight or nine alley-oops thrown down in this game. Honestly 7 or 8 of them were to or from Ramsdell or Smith. "We caught a rhythm after I saw Rams streaking down the court behind me on one of the early breaks. Fortunately, both of us caught eyes, and.....that's all she wrote," added Smith who had a great game with 10 points, 3 assists and a steal.

By halftime, the Highlanders had ballooned ahead to a comfortable 35-19 lead and the 2nd half seemed no different. "I don't know why they gave me player of the game," exclaimed sophmore forward, Marcello Ramsdell. "Man, "Big Chris" (Oliver) deserved it. I think he had like 20 boards and didn't play much in the 2nd half."

Oliver did have a stellar game, notching 9 points, to go along with 16 boards and 7 assists. "I am very pround of everyone on the team. We are finally playing like I had envisioned most of the season these past 2 or 3 games. If we keep playing like this, I like our chances come (Big South) Tournament time, " added assistant coach Jibran Stallworth.

Now with the end of the season just around the corner, the Highlanders (12-7, 9-2) look to make a final push for that conference crown. Next week the Highlanders have three games on tap, VMI(5-12, 2-8), Winthrop( 6-14, 3-8), and conference leader, Liberty (15-5, 9-1).



Players of the Game
Radford: so forward, Marcello Ramsdell: 11 points, 5/7FG, 7 rebounds, 2 assists
Coastal: so forward, Chad Ferguson: 13 points, 6-15 FG, 9 rebounds


Mr. Longsword:
jr forward, Chris Oliver: 9 points, 16 rebounds, 7 assists


Highlander Contributions:
so guard, Branden Smith:10 points, 3 assists, 2 rebounds, 2-3 3pts
so center, Duane Ricks: 3 points, 5 rebounds, 7 blocks


Chanticleer Contributions:
fr center, Moussa Almamson: 4 points, 1/11FG , 13 rebounds, 2 steals
sr guard, Colin Stevens: 13pts, 4/16FG, 3 assists


Key Stats:

FG%:
Radford: 21/57 .361
Coastal:16/70 .229

Bench:
Radford: 28
Coastal: 4

Points In the Paint
Radford: 32
Coastal: 16

[elprez98]

http://www.radford.edu/Athletics/sportsart/mbbpagehd.gif



Radford Steamrolls the Keydets by 35



Oliver posts 5th double-double of the year
Rad 75 VMI 40

February 13th, 2006
Radford, VA

If this game had been a movie it could have easily been coined, "The Keydet-(ian) Massacre." The Cadets really had no chance in this one from the outset. Even by halftime, the Keydets had already been down by 18, 38-20.

"I kinda felt sorry for them, they gave up, early. I mean I understand those losing times because we used to be there, but you have to keep your head up," added senior guard, Walt Holcomb-Faye who only scored 5 points in 19 first half minutes. "I guess that's why were so excited that Coach D is here now. Me and the other guys all have gotten a taste of being a winner, and we love it. Something we'll keep in our hearts forever."

The Keydets shot terribly, just 28% for the game and from the FT line. "We just sucked out there. Complete crap. Our bench was outscored by 32 points! 32 damn POINTS!!! I don't know, but this could probably be the worst we've ever played. I'm embarrassed to even have this be the current representation of the Virginia Military Institute," exclaimed Coach Owen, whose 2-year record is just 9-33.

The Highlanders managed to get four players in double figures, while, junior forward, Chris Oliver has come into his own notching his fifth double-double of the year. "Chris(Oliver) has always had the skill. It was then just getting "the will" in place. Looking at how he's been playing lately, I really think its there," added Coach Dillard with a smirk of satifaction.

With the Liberty Flames losing their second conference game this week, the Highlanders have moved into a tie for 1st place in the conference and look forward to face Winthrop and Liberty later in the week.



Players of the Game
Radford: sr forward, Chris Goodin: 14 points, 5/18FG,
VMI: so guard, Levar Joseph: 13 points, 6-15 FG, 4 rebounds


Mr. Longsword:
jr forward, Chris Oliver: 9 points, 16 rebounds, 7 assists


Highlander Contributions:
so guard, Branden Smith:10 points, 5/5FG, 2 assists, 2 steals
so center, Duane Ricks: 4 points, 4 rebounds
so forward, Marcello Ramsdell: 8 points, 9 rebounds, 4/4FG
so forward, Dan Ross: 13 points, 4 rebounds


Keydets Contributions:
sr center, Tadas Mankevicius: 8 points, 4-7FG , 10 rebounds



Key Stats:

FG%:
Radford: 27/67: .403
Keydets: 18/51: .353

Bench:
Radford: 34
Keydets: 2

Points In the Paint
Radford: 28
Keydets: 18

Blocks:
Radford: 8
Keydets: 0

[elprez98]

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Radford Defeats Hapless Eagles by 33


Radford wins 5th straight
Rad 63 Winthrop 32

February 15th, 2006
Radford, VA

One word. Yep, really only one word is really necessary.

WOW.


The Eagles, just like the Keydets, met a well-oiled machine ready to clean up the bottom of the barrel in this matchup. Like de ja vu, the Highlander jumped to an early 20+ point lead by halftime lead by the stellar play of sophmore forward, Marcello Ramsdell. "Rams"(as he is commonly called by coaches and teammates) played like a man possessed scoring all 13 of his points in the first half, including an baseline-to-baseline three-point shot to close out the half.

"I was so hype when that shot went in. That's like one of those memorable shots that I'll never forget. But as far as the game goes, Coach has stressed to me all season about being more aggressive and I think its finally sunk in," Ramsdell said following the game.

The Highlanders only played 2 starters in the second half, and then they only played one minute then. All of the bench saw extended play time, including junior guard, Tom Hayes.

"It was great to get some PT, it seemed like I wouldn't get a chance this year to put in any time but these last two games have given me a chance to see some pretty good action. And hey, I even scored today," added Hayes, who scored his first points of the season today.

"The guys have been C-4-type, explosive these last couple of games. I think that its now coming down to conditioning and some of these teams are getting a bit tired. Hopefully, the guys are starting to see why I stressed fitness so much this year. I'm very happy that we have been playing so well, and this momentum is great for our upcoming rematch versus Liberty on Saturday," added Coach Dillard.



Players of the Game
Radford: so forward, Marcello Ramsdell: 13 points, 9 rebounds 6/7FG, 1/1 3pts
Eagles: sr guard, James Shuler: 11 points, 4-16 FG, 5 rebounds


Mr. Longsword:
so forward, Dan Ross: 15 points, 3 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steals


Highlander Contributions:
so guard, Branden Smith:8 points, 4/8FG, 2 rebounds, 2 steals
so center, Duane Ricks: 2 points, 8 rebounds
jr forward, Chris Oliver: 2 points, 9 rebounds, 3 assists
sr guard, Whit Holcomb-Faye: 8 points, 2 assists, 2 steals


Keydets Contributions:
sr center, Billy Houston: 8 points, 3-6FG , 6 rebounds



Key Stats:

FG%:
Radford: 25/57: ..439
Eagles: 13/48: .241

Bench:
Radford: 34
Eagles: 3

Points In the Paint
Radford: 18
Eagles: 10

Blocks:
Radford: 2
Eagles: 3

[elprez98]

[quote="elprez98"]http://www.radford.edu/Athletics/sportsart/mbbpagehd.gif

http://www.libertyflames.com/images/players/Dees,_David.jpg

Dees Etches Himself in NCAA Recordbooks with 73-point performance


The Highlanders were single-handedly routed by Dees
Rad 83 Liberty 92

February 18th, 2006
Lynchburg, VA

"I've never seen anything like this. Team basketball jst went up in smoke. I'm very dissappointed in the guys tonight," said Dillard with a solemn tone after the loss to Liberty. "I mean we should've passed the ball more, and made our FT's and we could've had a better chance, but don't take anything from Dees. He had an amazing effort out there."

The Highlanders definitely came out ready to play, but the Liberty Flames, no, Liberty Flames forward, David Dees had something to say about it. Jumping to an early 13-point lead with 13:57 remaining in the first half, the Highlanders looked ready to extinguish the Flames.

"We started out fine. Both, me and Chris were hitting shots early and that's what made it look like we were going to win easily. Then Dees went off. It was really embarrassing to see him do that to us." But I guess its time to look forward now," commented senior guard, Whit Holcomb-Faye who scored 26 points with 5 assists but also 5 turnovers.

As the game continued, the Flames went on a 17-2 run to take the lead, 23-21 with just seven minutes remaining. By halftime, it was a decent battle with both team notching 45 apiece. The player at the half, was Dees who scored an amazing 38 points by halftime and showed no signs of slowing down. "If my boy doesn't get Conference Player of the Year, I'm probably gonna protest," said Dees' mom who traveled from Ohio to watch the the Flames final regular season home game.

In the 2nd half, the Dees and the Flames turned up the temperature, shooting an amazing 56% from the field. Eight minutes into the 2nd half, the Highlanders found themselves down by double-digits and in a whole that they couldn't seem to get out of. "Its embarrassing, its just fu..freaking embarrassing," Goodin shouted while kicking his locker in the lockerroom.

Now with a just 2 regular season game remaining, the Highlanders (14-8, 11-3) look to rebound and win out their last two games of the season against High Point (7-15, 5-9), and UNC-Asheville (12-10, 9-4). In hope to share the regular season crown, the Highlanders can only hope that the Flames (18-7, 12-3) lose to their final opponent, UNC-Asheville in North Carolina next week.

Players of the Game
Radford: sr forward, Chris Goodin: 28 points, 4 rebounds 10/35FG, 4/17 3-pts
Flames: jr forward, David Dees: 73 points, 15 rebounds 21-66 FG, 9/37 3-pts, 22-22 FT


Mr. Longsword:
sr guard, Whit Holcomb-Faye: 26 points, 3 rebounds, 5 assists, 5 TO


Highlander Contributions:
so center, Duane Ricks: 4 points, 16 rebounds, 2 blocks
jr forward, Chris Oliver: 8 points, 11 rebounds, 6 assists
so forward, Marcello Ramsdell: 2 points, 12 rebounds, 2 steals


Flames Contributions:
jr guard, Larry Blair: 13 points, 5-9FG , 4 rebounds, 2 assists
jr guard, Jeremy Monceaux: 2 points, 16 assists, 4 rebounds
sr center, Christian Weddborn: 11 rebounds, 2 assists
fr forward, B.J. Andrew: 2 points, 10 rebounds, 4 assists




Key Stats:

FG%:
Radford: 28/86: .325
Flames: 28/84: .333

FT%:
Radford: 20/30: 66%
Flames: 24/24: 100%

[KeeperEUSC]

That has to be one fo the most bizzare things I have ever seen the gaem do by having a player score 73 points. Wow. Just wow.

[elprez98]

That has to be one fo the most bizzare things I have ever seen the gaem do by having a player score 73 points. Wow. Just wow.

Yea, I play these in coach mode and we couldn't stop the dude. He was bammin' threes from everywhere it seemed like...and then if we got close....BEEEEEEEEEEEEPP....foul called and as u can see he was perfect from the line. It was unreal, I mean he scored 30+ on us in the 1st game but this was uncanny...oh well...(foreshadowing) who cares how much is scored on ya when you get the #1 seed in the conference tourney anyway...lol

[elprez98]

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Radford Earns #1 Seed in Big South Championship Tourney


Seniors end regular season with a bang

Feb. 22nd Rad 71 High Point 57

Feb. 25th Rad 72 UNCA 56

February 27th, 2006
Radford, VA

"It looked grim after that loss to Liberty, but I just told the guys all we could do is go out there and win our last two games, and that's just what we did. I couldn't be any more proud of these guys, especially our seniors," added an elated Coach Dillard. Following Liberty's late game loss to UNCA earlier this week, the Highlanders have won the Big South regular season championship two years straight.

The Radford seniors ended their regular season college careers with flying colors. Coach Dillard and staff has lead the Highlanders back to the top of the Big South. Last year, Coach Dillard and his Highlanders went to the field of 32 with a thrilling upset of the #2 seeded Louisville Cardinals.

But before jumping the gun, the Highlanders still have to make it to and through the Big South Championship Game. First up is, #8 seeded Coastal Carolina, whom the Highlanders defeated twice this year, by an average of 19.5 points.

[elprez98]

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http://www.bigsouthsports.com/images/articles/51038_H-Faye-RU.jpg

Holcomb-Faye Wins Team MVP


Great job by the graduating senior


February 27th, 2006
Radford, VA

Along with the annoucement of Radford's 2nd consecutive regular season title, Coach Dillard has named the 2005-2006 Highlander MVP. Its is none other than, #32 senior guard, Whit Holcomb-Faye.

"I'd like to thank all of my teammates, my coaches and the Highlander fans out there for making us successful this year," Whit said nearly in tears. I appreciate the love and dedication everyone has had this year. I'd like to specifically congratulate Coach Dillard because he has given us a chance to be winners, and as a basketball player that's all we could ever hope for. Now to the NCAA tourney!!!!"

Holcomb-Faye finished in 1st place voting earning over 80% of the fans votes. He finished the season with 15.2 ppg, 5.6 apg, 1.6 spg. 2nd Place voting was earned by fellow senior, Chris Goodin who ended the regular season with 17ppg, 1.7 apg, 3.1 rpg. Both seniors are candidates for 1st All-Conference nominations.

[elprez98]

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Radford Easily Wins 1st Round Matchup



Holcomb-Faye leads team to the semi-finals
Rad 80 CCU 67

March 4th, 2006
Radford, VA

The Highlanders have advanced to the conference semi-finals following the a big win over Coastal Carolina today. The Highlanders looked hungry and feasted on Coastal Carolina's weak defense today. Opening the game, the Highlanders got into foul trouble early with sophmore center going to the bench after just 50 seconds into game.

Coastal Carolina did jump out early, going on a 7-0 run, leading the game 7-4 with 14:05 to play. After that it was all Holcomb-Faye who singlehandedly went on 9-0 run to give Radford a 13-7 lead, with just 12:00 minutes left in the first half.

"We started running on all cylinders, once we put Whit(Holcomb-Faye) in the #2 spot he was draining shots from everywhere," added Coach Dillard. Faye was inserted into the shooting guard position towards the end of the 1st half, and his play sparked a 20-6 run to close the half with the lead, 28-18. Faye lead all scorers in the 1st half with 11 of his game high 27.

In the 2nd half, the Highlanders were on cruise control, going on another 15-6 run midway through the 2nd half that put the game away. Radford also got great bench production to offset the shooting woes of senior, Chris Gooden who scored just 6 points off of a forgettable 2-15, 0-8 3pt shooting night. Sophmore, Dan Ross got extended minutes, and added 7 points from the bench.

"Overall, it was a good win. I don't believe any of their players scored in double digits, and the coaching staff and myself are proud of the defensive effort the guys gave tonight," said Coach Dillard.

The Highlanders(17-8, 13-3) move on to the conference semi-finals to face #4 seed, Birmingham Southern (13-14, 6-10). In the other conference matchups, Both the #2 seeded Liberty Flames and #3 seeded UNC-Asheville Bulldogs were upset in the first round, leaving #7 Winthrop to face #6 High Point, in the other conference semi-final.



Players of the Game
Radford: sr guard, Whit Holcomb-Faye: 27 points, 9/17FG, 3/4 3pts, 4 assists, 8 TO
CCU: fr center, Moussa Almanson: 9 points, 4/9FG, 12 rebounds


Mr. Longsword:
jr forward, Chris Oliver: 2 points, 13 rebounds, 4 assists


Highlander Contributions:
so forward, Dan Ross:8 points, 2/7 FG, 5 rebounds
sr center, Ivan Wilson: 4 points, 8 rebounds,

Chanticleers Contributions:
jr guard, Colin Stevens 9 points, 3/13 FG, 4 assists, 5 TO
so forward, Chad Ferguson: 6 points, 3/15 FG, 9 rebounds
so center, Moses Sonko: 8 points, 4 rebounds, 2 assists


Key Stats:

FG%:
Radford: 20/55 .364
CCU:19/63 .302

3pts:
Radford: 4/14 286
CCU:0/5 0%

Assists:
Radford: 16
CCU: 11

Rebounds:
Radford: 48(5)
CCU: 37(6)

Bench:
Radford: 18
CCU: 0

[elprez98]

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Radford Blows By Birmingham Into the Conference Finals



Panthers are no match for the Highlanders
Rad 76 BSC 50

March 6th, 2006
Radford, VA

The Panthers had no chance today against the surging Highlanders. Even early on the Panthers got down big and didn't even have a chance to compete from the outset. The Highlanders had four players in double figures and just a dominating performance over the Panthers.

The Highlanders now move forward to the conference finals, and the underated #6 seed, High Point.




Players of the Game
Radford: sr forward, Chris Goodin: 19 points, 7/17FG, 2 steals, 10 minutes
Bir-South: sr forward, Thomas Viglianco: 15 points, 7/16FG, 10 rebounds


Mr. Longsword:
so guard, Branden Smith: 14 points, 4 assists


Highlander Contributions:
sr guard, Whit Holcomb-Faye: 10 points, 2 assists, 11 minutes
so forward, Dan Ross: 15 points, 2 assists, 2 rebounds
so center, Duane Ricks: 4 points, 10 rebounds, 7 blocks
jr forward, Chris Oliver: 18 points, 13 rebounds, 3 steals 9/12FG

Panthers Contributions:
jr guard, Bucky McMillian: 16 points, 2/10 3pts, 4 assists, 2 steals
sr guard, James Colliins: 14 points, 4/21 FG, 4 rebounds, 2 assists, 3 steals
so center, Benjamin Bone: 2 points, 10 rebounds


Key Stats:

FG%:
Radford: 30/70 .460
BSC:25/64, .302

3pts:
Radford: 14/20 31.6%
BSC: 12/15 15.8%

Assists:
Radford: 24
BSC: 12

Bench:
Radford: 35
BSC: 11

[elprez98]

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Radford Wins Big South Tournament in Grand Fashion

http://www.bigsouthsports.com/images/articles/51038_H-Faye-RU.jpg

Holcomb-Faye hits 8 3-pointers and leads his team to the NCAA tournament
Rad 77 High Point 71

March 8th, 2006
Radford, VA

After a season of hard work and perserverance, the Highlanders hopes and dreams of another NCAA berth have come to fruition. Following a close six point victory over the a tough and talented High Point squad, 77-71.

Early on, it was easy to see that senior guard, Whit Holcomb-Faye was determined to make it to the field of 64. Holcomb-Faye came out on fire, scoring 6 of the Highlanders first 11 points, to give them an 11-6 lead with 15:02 remaining in the game.

Thirty seconds later, sophmore center Duane Ricks picked up his 2nd personal foul and had to sit for the remainder of the 1st half. "Duane is our "intimidator" in the middle. ANY time he has to sit down our defense tends to stumble a bit," commented Coach Dillard who's name is being mentioned as one of today's best up-and-coming coaches.

With just a two point lead and 7:59 remaining in the half, Holcombe-Faye began to find his stride. The Radford senior began hitting shots from all over the court like a man possesed, going on a self-made 13-4 run. This run included three-point baskets on three straight possesions, and gave the Highlanders a commanding 33-22 lead with just over six minutes left to play in the first half.

"I was just feeling it. I can honestly say that this is the best game I've ever played in college. Plus, I want to get back to the big dance, one last time before i leave here in May," added Holcomb-Faye who scored 22 points in the 1st half alone.

By halftime, the Highlanders had a relatively, comfortable lead, 31-40. "I told them at halftime, that those guys weren't done and we were going to have to weather a storm in the 2nd half to pull this out. Whit looked at me and said, 'I got this coach' and I knew that our chances were very, very good," said Radford Assitant Jesse Connolly.

In the 2nd half of play, the Panthers did show their reaction to adversity by coming out on a 13-2 run, capped by a big three point shot by High Point senior, Mark Wilson with 11:20 remaining in the game. From then on, it was a back and forth contest between two very determined teams.

It seemed is if the Highlanders may have broken the game open following Holcomb-Faye's 6th three-point basket that gave Radford a 58-53 lead, with 5:32 remaining. However, High Point seniors, Akeem Scott and Mark Wilson scored four points apiece and after 2 1/2 minutes passed, the score was tied again 61-61.

As the game was winding down, and with the game tied at 65, sophmore Branden Smith came up with a big steal, and on the break, Goodin hit his only three point basket of the game to give the Highlanders a 3 point lead with one minuted to go. However, the Panthers star senior guard, Akeem Scott, answered with a quick 18 foot jumper to put his team back into striking range.

Then with under forty seconds remaining, the player of the game, Whit Holcomb-Faye came up with, arguably, the biggest shot of his college career. "I came off the screen and I thought, why not, I've hit seven all ready anyway. So even though it wasn't the play, I wanted to make sure we made it to the Big Dance and shot that 3," said the Radford senior.

That three point basket gave Radford a four point lead with just 22 seconds remaining, and then the Highlanders hit all of their freethrows down the stretch, and winning the game 77-71. The whole Deadmon Center was elated that their team had made it to the NCAA tourney again.



Players of the Game
Radford:
High Point: sr guard, Akeem Scott: 22 points, 8/14FG, 6 assists, 6 TO


Mr. Longsword:
sr guard, Whit Holcomb-Faye: 46 points, 8/14FG, 8/14 3pts, 8/9FT, 4 assists, 2 steals


Highlander Contributions:
sr forward, Chris Goodin: 11 points, 3/9 FG, 2 steals
so guard, Branden Smith: 2 points, 7 assists, 3 rebounds, 3 steals
so forward, Dan Ross: 6 points, 3/6FG, 5 assists

Panthers Contributions:
sr forward, Issa Konard: 4 points, 11 rebounds 6 assists
sr forward, Mark Wilson: 17 points, 7/12 FG, 3 assists, 3 TO
so center, Moses Sonko: 8 points, 4 rebounds, 2 assists
jr center, Gerry Jimenez: 8 points, 4/5FG, 6 rebounds


Key Stats:

FG%:
Radford: 27/62 .437
High Point: 30/57 .522

3pts:
Radford: 9/25 .361
High Point: 2/4 .500

Assists:
Radford: 19
High Point: 21

Rebounds:
Radford: 25(2)
High Point: 35(4)

Turnovers:
Radford: 4
High Point: 15

[elprez98]

http://www.ncaa.org/news/2002/20020121/graphics/selection.jpg
The Selection Slope was SEC heavy this year, 7 SEC teams in the Big Dance

Selection Slope by K. Greene
3/12/06

Its been a tumultuous, rollercoaster ride from November until today but we've finally made it. March Madness has arrived, and not a minute too soon. College coaches, players and fans alike have patiently waited for arguably the most exciting championship run in all of contemporary sports. Now we'll give you a brief rundown of who made it in from each conference:

TOURNAMENT/SEEDING SELECTIONS BY CONFERENCE (conference champs in bold)

Am. East
(20-9) Northeastern

ACC
(27-3) #1 Ranked Duke
(24-6)#4 Ranked Maryland
(20-8) #20 NC State
(20-10)#19 Florida State
(16-15) North Carolina


Atl. Sun
(19-10) Stetson

A-10
(21-8) Xavier
(18-12)Temple
(22-8) GW

Big East
(25-5)Villanova
(22-6)UConn
(16-10)Georgetown
(19-9) WV
(20-11)Boston College


Big Sky
(18-10) Weber St.


Big South
(19-8) Radford

Big 10
18-9 Michigan St.
21-9 Indiana
23-8 Michigan
18-12 Purdue


Big 12
Texas
Iowa State
Kansas
Nebraska

Big West
UC-Santa Barbara

Colonial
William and Mary

Conf. USA
Memphis
Southern Miss
Louisville
Cincinnati

Horizon
Youngstown St.


Metro Atl.
Niagara

Mid-Ame.
Toledo

Mid-Con
Oral Roberts

MEAC
FAMU

Mtn. West
Utah

N. East
C. Connecticut

Ohio Valley
Murray St.

Pac-10
Arizona
Washington
California
Stanford

Patriot
American

SEC
Florida
Kentucky
LSU
Miss. State
Arkansas
Georgia
South Carolina
Kentucky

Southern
E. Tennessee State

Southland
Northwestern State

SWAC
Grambling

SunBelt
New Mexico State

WCC
Gonzaga
San Diego

WAC
UTEP
Rice

[elprez98]

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Gibson scored 38 points in the Highlanders 1st round upset of the Longhorns

The #14 seeded Highlanders UPSET #3 Longhorns



Goodin scores 51 and falls 3 shy of NCAA record for made 3 point baskets
Rad 108 Texas 101

March 16th, 2006
Final Four-Indianapolis
1st Round, Minneapolis Regional
Raleigh, NC

Could it be true? Was history made again? The answer is yes. For the 2nd year in a row, Coach Dillard and his Highlanders have found a way to make it out of the first round of the NCAA tournament against a powerful #3 seeded (21-11)University of Texas opponent who was heavily favored to march into the 2nd round. Through perserverance, hustle, and miraculous shooting from beyond the arc, the Highlanders ran out of RBC Center with another NCAA tournament win under their belt.

The game started as if it would be a rout, when the Longhorns jumped out to an early 8-1 lead with 17:53 to play. However, seconds after UT scored their seventh and eighth points, junior forward, P.J. Tucker had to take a seat on the bench after picking up his 2nd foul. Once Tucker went to the sidelines, it seemed as if a weight was taken off the Highlanders who then started playing their normal style of ball, shoot the three.

At one point in the game, Goodin hit 3 consecutive three point baskets that gave his Highlanders a 24-21, lead with 11:30 remaining. "That guy(Goodin) was unconscious out there, a Pringles kinda guy. You gotta give them their props, they had a gameplan and stuck to it. We definitely underestimated them and payed the price," commented Texas senior, Brad Buckman.

The Longhorns were plagued with foul trouble throughout the whole game which limited the play of their starters. With 9:08 to play in the 1st half, Radford found themselves going to the line for every foul call because they were shooting in the bonus. Then when both ,sophmore forward, Lamarcus Aldridge and Buckman found themselves heading the bench with their 2nd fouls, the Highlanders really seemed to break open the game.

"Once those big guys had to sit, we actually had a level playing field. We weren't getting mud-stomped on the the boards anymore. Not to sound like I'm braggin' or nothin', but Coach has taught us how to execute. I'm talking about the last cigarette, and do you want a preacher too, kind," boisterously added sophmore Branden Smith, who contributed 8 points and 5 assists in the win.

By halftime, the Highlanders fought to maintain an impressive eight point lead, 53-45 over the Longhorns. "You can't expect to win when you allow someone to shoot 51% in the 1st half. We probably couldn't beat my son's 8th grade JV squad, the way we played tonight," Texas Assistant, Sammy Crisp said with disgust. The Highlanders also got too the line hitting 13 of 21 attempts while Texas only went to the line twice in the 1st half(4/4).

In the 2nd half, it took less than one minute for P.J. Tucker to pick up his 3rd personal foul. "I'm used to P.J. being out there grabbin' boards and scoring with me. It was tough to try and do all that scoring alone," said sophmore guard, Daniel Gibson who scored 24 of his 38 in the 2nd half.

However, Texas still managed to go on a 13-4 run, capped by an exciting 3 point alley-oop play from freshman, Justin Danley to Gibson. This play gave the Longhorns a bit of momentum and pulled them within one point, 70-69. Then after a furry of baskets by both teams, Radford again took command, 86-79, with a big three point basket by senior Andre Bynum.

Texas still wouldn't fade away, and cut the lead to one point,86-85, following a great cut and layup by Danley. Consectutive three point baskets by Chris Goodin put Radford back ahead 92-85 with under 3:30 to play. Then with 1:40 to play, Goodin hit his 11th and 12th 3 pointers of the game to seal the win, and go ahead by 9 points, 101-92. "It seemed like every got@^$% shot he took went in," screamed Tucker who only spent 13 minutes on the floor.

When it was all over with, the Highlanders had squeaked by a shocked Longhorn squad, 108-101. "This will be a very memorable win for us and me personally. Last year, its like we beat Louisville, but I felt like I need to play the game myself. This year, I did nothing but coach. They got out on the floor and executed the gameplan," added Coach Dillard. This gives Coach Dillard a 20 win season and likely offers from bigger schools that will want probably want his services.

The Highlanders already knew who was going to be their opponent since earlier today. Radford will match up against #6 seed and Big East Champs, Boston College (21-11). The Eagles defeated the UAB Blazers 87-68 in the first round, led by Player of the Year candidate, senior Craig Smith.

Players of the Game
Radford: sr forward, Chris Goodin: 51 points,18/36FG, 12/23 3pts, 6 rebounds, 2 assists
Texas: so guard, Daniel Gibson: 38 points, 6 assists, 4 steals, 13/35FG, 5/14 3pts, 7-8FT


Mr. Longsword:
sr guard, Andre Bynum:12 points, 6 assists, 4 TO


Highlander Contributions:
sr guard, Whit Holcomb-Faye: 12 points, 11 assists, 8/9FT, 2/16FG, 7 TO
sr center, Ivan Wilson: 4 points, 10 rebounds
so guard, Branden Smith: 8 points, 5 assists
so center, Duane Ricks: 8 points, 7 rebounds

Longhorns Contributions:
jr forward, Larmarcus Aldridge: 13 points, 7 rebounds, 5/12FG
freshman forward, Justin Danley: 8 points, 9 rebounds, 7 assists, 4/10FG
sr foward, Brad Buckman: 6 points, 14 rebounds, 3/7FG
jr forward, P.J. Tucker: 6 points, 9 rebounds, 13 minutes of play



Key Stats:

FG%:
Radford: 36/78 .462
Texas:40/101 .396

3pts:
Radford: 14/30 .467
Texas:6/22 .273

Assists:
Radford: 29
Texas: 21

Rebounds:
Radford: 51(7)
Texas: 57(15)

Bench:
Radford: 32
Texas: 31

[elprez98]

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http://graphics.fansonly.com/photos/schools/bc/sports/m-baskbl/auto_action/121874.jpeg
All-American Craig Smith and the Eagles didn't need an overpowering performance by him to fly past the Highlanders

#6 seed, BC Ends the Highlanders Post-Season



Fans and coaches are very proud of this year's Big South Champions
Radford 76 Boston College 105

March 18th, 2006
Final Four-Indianapolis
2nd Round, Minneapolis Regional
Raleigh, NC

The Cinderella season is over for the Radford Highlanders following a loss in the 2nd round of the NCAA tournament. The reigning Big East Champion, Boston College Eagles dictate the pace and gameplay during the entire game, and came out with a 30-point victory over the Highlanders.

BC's combination of inside dominance and athletic superiority proved to be too much for the Highlanders to handle. Early in the game, the Eagles got great production from junior forward, Jared Dudley. Dudley sparked and ended a 14-5 with a monster alley-oop jam to take a commanding, 19-8 lead.

The game was truly broken open when junior guard, Sean Marshall caught a nasty, 360 alleyoop from Dudley to close out another huge run that all but put the game away, 43-17. "We couldn't get the motor to crank up today. I mean its disappointing, but at least we made it out of the first round. There are 31 other teams that didn't even do that, let alone upset the #3 seed. I'm proud of our accomplishments this year, and now the gusy can put all of the thoughts back on their classes," Coach Dillard said satifyingly.

The Radford Highlanders end their season, with an impressive 20-9 record, with back-to-back Regular Season, and Big South Tournament Championship trophies. What will the future bring for Coach Dillard, who knows....but lets stay tuned to find out.

Players of the Game
Radford: sr guard, Whit Holcomb-Faye: 25 points, 9/28FG, 4 rebounds, 7 assists, 2 blocks, 7 TO
Boston College:jr forward, Sean Marshall: 22 points, 10 assists, 4 rebounds, 4 steals, 8/13FG, 2/2 3pts


Mr. Longsword:
sr forward, Chris Goodin: 22 points, 4 rebounds, 7/18FG


Highlander Contributions:
so forward, Marcello Ramsdell: 6 points, 7 rebounds, 3 steals
so center, Duane Ricks: 2 points, 5 rebounds, 2 blocks

Eagles Contributions:
jr guard, Jared Dudley: 18 points, 3 rebounds, 5 assists
sr forward, Craig Smith: 10 points, 5 rebounds, 3 assists
fr center, Tommy Hickman: 8 points, 14 rebounds
jr guard, Steven Hailey: 14 points, 4/7FG, 5/6FT


Key Stats:

FG%:
Radford: 27/79 .342
BC:41/73 .562

3pts:
Radford:5/23 .217
BC: 3/6 .500

Assists:
Radford: 20
BC: 35

Rebounds:
Radford: 35(9)
BC: 49(5)

Bench:
Radford: 13
BC: 42

Points in the Paint
Radford: 24
BC: 53

[elprez98]

http://iuhoosiers.com/mensbasketball/images/2002bballrally/images/BBallRally0236.jpg
Pictured: Hoosier players, just minutes before Indiana University hangs their 6th NCAA Championship Banner

The Hoosiers Bring the Another Championship Trophy to Bloomington

March 29, 2006
-Bloomington, In

Another season has ended in grand fashion. The Hoosiers perservered through the season to emerge as this year's NCAA champions. Carried on the back of their star guard, senior, Bracey Wright, the Hoosiers defeated Pac-10 Champion, Arizona Wildcats 59-69. Wright a 3-year All-American looks to head the NBA draft and hopefully take the league by storm. As we take a look across the rest of the NCAA here are some of the top coaches and players of this past season:


ACC
Player of the Year:
Duke: senior, J.J. Redick(2006 stats: 22.5ppg, 4.3rpg, 4.6apg, 1.3 spg) Overall: 90

Coach of the Year:
(31-4) Duke: Shawan Pandov (26 Years)

Freshman of the Year:
Georgia Tech: Marcello James(2006 stats: 14.0ppg, 5.0rpg, 3.0apg)


Big South
Player of the Year:
High Point: senior, Mark Wilson(2006 stats: 12.8ppg, 6.2rpg, 3.5apg, 1.3 spg) Overall: 72

Coach of the Year:
(21-9) Radford: Dee Dillard (2 Years)

Freshman of the Year:
Liberty: B.J. Andrew(2006 stats: 6.8ppg, 6.8rpg, 1.5bpg)


]Big 10
Player of the Year:
Indiana: senior, Bracey Wright(2006 stats: 20.2ppg, 5.2rpg, 4.6apg, 1.8spg, 1.8bpg) Overall: 91

Coach of the Year:
(27-9) Indiana: Edwin Chavis (6 Years)

Freshman of the Year:
Penn State: Shawn Garcia(2006 stats: 11.9ppg, 4.9rpg, 3.7apg, 1.5spg, 1.5bpg)

Big 12
Player of the Year:
Texas A&M Antoine Wright(2006 stats: 17.6ppg, 7.0rpg, 4.2apg, 2.0 spg) Overall: 88

Coach of the Year:
(26-7) Iowa St: Shawn Austin (3 Years)


(as i was going thru..i accidently went forward... :cry: [/b]

[elprez98]

Off-Season Press Conference

Coach Dillard leaves Radford for the Desert???

Reporter: Coach, I thought that you said you were going to stick it out with Radford. Why the sudden change?

Dillard: Honestly, I had no intention of leaving Radford. Its funny, I was talking about this just earlier in the week with my fiance'. We were talking about how many teams had already called us expressing interest. Idaho, UMKC, Colgate, and a host of others. I turned all of them down, again not expecting to go anywhere. What happens next? I get a phone call from the AD down in Aggie territory asking if I would like to continue the legacy of Hall of Fame coach, L. Harsha(Lou Henson) after his retirement. I thought that this would be an opportunity that I couldn't pass up so even though the decision was agonizing, I chose to make the move. And here we are.....

Reporter: COACH..COACH....I heard that you were in consideration for a coaching job at your alma mater, Florida A&M. Why didn't you take that, it seems like its a once in a lifetime opportunity, right?

Dillard: Well considering, I plan to live a "couple" more years, who know what the future may bring. I think that the opportunity to follow a great coach and storied program like the Aggies was a better fit for me at this stage in my career.

Reporter: Dee, don't you feel a bit slighted that you weren't considered for any of the major programs that were open this year, like TCU, Wyoming or even Fordham? I mean you have an awesome record the last two years with Radford, including to NCAA appearances and upsets in both trips. Isn't that a bit of a slap in the face?

Dillard: Maybe it would be to you, but not to me. I never expected to be in the running for a major program. Heck, I gotta get my nose wet first, and going to the NCAA is a great accomplishment I'm proud of. But I know that I gotta earn the right to be considered one of the best in the biz. I just haven't done that yet.

Dillard: I've gotta get out of here now, ya'll I've got a lot of good-byes and explaining to do with the guys. (exhales deeply)

[elprez98]

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AGGIES TEAM BREAKDOWN

Record Last Season:
(25-11, 9-6 conf, 2005-2006 Sun-Belt Champions)
Sweet Sixteen Appearance

Head Coach:
Dee Dillard (38-19 overall, 20-9 last year with Radford Highlanders)

Team Breakdown:
-------------------------------------------------------------
2006-2007 AGGIE Players and Assistant Coaching Staff


Assistant Coach, Angelo Allison
Las Cruces, NM-
-----------------------------------------------------------
-Practically no help at all on the offensive side of the ball
-Contributes a small positvie impact ot defensive play and development
-An average teacher who will help his players with the basic fundementals
-Not good, but not a horrible recruiter
-Average ability to recognize talent, hit or miss when scouting opponents
-Dedicated to improving his coaching skills and securing a gig at a good school

Assistant Coach, Roy Beck
San Diego, CA
-----------------------------------------------------------
-Practically no help at all on the offensive sid of the ball
-Effectively communicates basic defensive principles to his players
-As a teacher, he has much to learn about college ball
-Pulling top prospects is not out of the question when this guy recruits
-A below par scout, he doesn't have anything insightul to say
-Moderately concerned about progessing in his career

Players
starters as of preseason....
------------------------------------------------------------


#12 Elijah Ingram, point guard
Overall:83
5'11, 196lb, junior, East Orange, NJ

Last Season:
14.2 ppg, 3.8rpg, 4.4 apg, 2.0spg, 44.7%FG, 41.5%3pt
--------------------------------------------------------
Courtesy: New Mexico State University
Release: 09/01/2004

St. John’s: Ingram, a guard from East Orange, N.J. was one of the Red Storm’s leading scoring in 2003-04, averaging 13.2 points per game, while shooting 36 percent from the field. He played in 19 games for the Red Storm, starting 17 and lead them in scoring seven times during that stretch. During his freshman year, Ingram started 31 of 34 games at the point guard position. He averaged 10.5 points a contest, while dishing out 2.6 assists a game.

High School: Ingram was a McDonald’s All-American at the storied St. Anthony’s High School in New Jersey under coach Bobby Hurley. He was named New Jersey State Player of the Year his junior season, while averaging 18 points, five assists and three steals. Elijah also helped lead the Friars to state championships in 2001 and 2002, as St. Anthony’s finished the 2002 season ranked second in the country by USA Today.

Personal: Elijah was born in Newark, N.J. and is the son of Carrie Ingram. Ingram is majoring in Family & Consumer Sciences.



#23 Antwan Alexander, shooting guard
Overall: 71
6'2, 184lb, junior, Hometown: Indianapolis, In

Last Season: 8.3ppg, 1.5rpg, 2.0apg
--------------------------------------------------------
Courtesy: New Mexico State University
Release: 09/01/2004

Wabash Valley: Alexander helped Wabash Valley to a 21-11 record during the 2003-04 season. He averaged 10.7 points, 2.3 rebounds and 2.7 assists per game. He shot 56 percent from the field and 84 percent from the free throw line.

High School: Alexander was a four-year letter winner from Arlington High School in Indianapolis, Ind. He was selected to the all-City, all-State, all-Conference and all-Sectional his junior and senior years, while averaging 19.5 points per game over his career. During his senior year he earned the All-Star MVP and was the Slam Dunk Champ. Alexander helped his team to the city champs in 1999, 2000 and 2002 as well as the sectional champs in 2002.

Personal: Alexander was born in Indianapolis, Ind. and is the son of Angela Alexander. His major is communications


#1 Duane John, small forward
Overall: 80
6'6, 197lb senior, Hometown: Toronto, Ontario

Last Season: 16.6ppg, 5.7rpg, 2.1apg, 1.1spg
--------------------------------------------------------
Courtesy: New Mexico State University
Release: 06/24/2004

Sophomore: John played in 23 games for the Aggies while starting 12 times in 2003-04. He scored a season high 33 points in his first game as an Aggie against New Mexico (12/3/03) while hitting 4-of-7 attempts from 3-point land. He followed that performance with 26 points against UTEP (12/6/03) hitting 3-of-4 free throws and 5-of-10 shots from behind the arc. John was named Sun Belt Conference Player of the Week following the games against New Mexico and UTEP. He grabbed a season high nine rebounds three times and scored in double figures 17 times, shooting 50 percent or better from the 3-point line nine times. Duane had three assists at Utah State (12/30/03) and blocked nine shots on the year. He averaged 27.2 minutes per game including a season high 36 minutes at North Texas (1/10/03) while scoring 13.1 points per game. For the season, Duane shot 41 percent from the field, 33 percent from behind the arc, 71 percent from the charity stripe and grabbed 5.2 rebounds per contest.

Sophomore (Transfer): Sat out the 2002-03 season after transferring from Missouri.

2001-02 - Missouri: Played in 24 games for the Tigers averaging 0.8 points per game and recorded 13 rebounds.

High School: John was regarded by most as the most talented player in all of Canada , averaging 32.5 points, 12.1 rebounds and three assists as a junior at Boylen High School in Toronto. He was named to the Toronto Sun’s All-Star Team, and later averaged 18.3 points a game during the summer of 2000 playing AAU basketball for Team Toronto Elite, under coach Rowan Russell . He moved to Berkshire, Fla., for his senior season, where he attended Homestead Berkshire Academy, and was part of one of the most talented prep teams in the nation. Duane was one of seven players to sign Division I scholarships from that team, which went 17-2 during the 2000-01 season, and lost only to the nation’s #1 team Oakhill (by three points) and to Folk Union, a fifth-year team.

Personal: John is a native of the West Indies who moved to Canada prior to high school to be with his mother, Aldona Fosu He chose Missouri over Michigan State, Syracuse, Louisville and Pittsburgh, among others.



Tyrone Nelson, power foward
Overall: 79
6'10, 210lb, junior, Hometown: Hempstead, Tx

Last Season: 12.7ppg, 5.9rpg, 1.9apg, 1.6bpg
--------------------------------------------------------
Prairie View A&M: Tyrone led Prairie View A&M in scoring and rebounding with 15.1 points and 8.4 boards a contest. He also led the team in field goal percentage, hitting 47.8 percent of his shots. Nelson started 23 games for the Panthers, leading the team in scoring eight times and 16 times in rebounding. He also recorded five double-doubles on the season, while leading the team in blocks (22) and steals (32). He was also named SWAC Freashman of the Year in 2003-04.

High School: Tyrone was a four-year letter winner at Hempstead High School in Hempstead, Texas. He was named a first team all-District, all-Region and all-State from his freshman to his senior season. His senior season, Nelson averaged 29 points and 15 rebounds a game. He was also a member of the Honor Society.

Personal: Tyrone was born in Brenham, Texas and is the son of Henry and Kate Nelson. He hopes to make the next level and believes with hard work anything is possible. He is undecided with a major.


Trevor Lawrence, center
Overall: 68
6'11, 225lb, senior, Hometown: Jamaica

Last Season: 2.7ppg, 4.9rpg, 1.8bpg
--------------------------------------------------------
Courtesy: New Mexico State University
Release: 09/01/2004

Highland Community College: Lawrence, a 6-11, center from Highland Community College (Ill.) should fill the void in the middle for the Aggies. His sophomore season Trevor averaged seven points and six boardsa game, while healping his team to a 31-1 record on the year, the Arrowhead Conference Championships (12-0) and an appearance in the Junior College national Tournament. During his freshman season, Lawrence played at Chipola Junior College (Fla.) before transferring to Highland CC for the upcoming season. While at Chipola, Lawrence played in 15 games, shooting 75 percent from the field, blocking 11 shots and scoring 3.3 points a contest.

High School: Trevor helped lead his team to a league title during his senior season, averaging five points and five rebounds a game for Hydel High School in St. Catherine, Jamaica. The native of Jamaica has only been playing organized basketball for three years.

Personal: Trevor is the son of Trevor Lawrence and Cordette A. Johnson. He is majoring in Family & Consumer Sciences.


Bench:
(sr)G, Mike Mitchell Rating: 72
(jr)G, Byron Davis, rating: 70
(so)F, Delbert Simpson, Rating: 71
(sr)F, Robert Frazier, Rating: 68
(so)F, Josh Jenkins, Rating: 65
(fr)F, Wilson Avery, Rating: 64
(fr)G, Predrag Lenbullicer, Rating: 62

Reserves:
(so)G, Brennen Jeffers, Rating: 57
(so)G, Jalen Dominguez, Rating: 55

Hmm...I kept the the schedule regular, hopefully we can win a couple this year. (Deja Vu...)

-Coach Dillard

[KeeperEUSC]

New Mexico State. Looks liek it's going to be and interesting ride. Keep up the work

[elprez98]

Coach D's Monthly Recruitment Notes 2006:

October 23rd, 2006:
Well before I got to New Mexico State, it looks like last year's achievements had already attracted attention here. By the time I arrived, the boosters had already been "recruiting" it seemed. One of the stipulations of my hiring was that I had to use the four new scholarships on people that had already been recruited by the previous head coach. That was no problem to me, seeing that it cut the amount of work I had to do to get some quality players down here. Now here are the new guys that are now added to the roster through the boosters questionable "recruiting techniques."

Recruiting Focus


5-Star Recruits:
None
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

4-Star Recruits:


Maury Bird
7'0 232lb H.S. senior
Albuquerque High School, Albuquerque, NM[/b]
Quick Sct: Hustle: A-, Defense: B+
Overall: 75
Scouting:

At least the boosters know their area. This kid is local, but talk about all around skill for a BIG boy. 7'0, 232 as a freshman? He's going to be monster if we work with him right. I heard about some kid out in Albany they are starting to call "White Shaq." I wonder if there can be two of those. I know that senior we got is going to be mad, but this guy is going to start.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

3-Star Recruits:
Scouting:


Peter Burton
6'7 220lb, H.S. senior
Bellglade, Florida
Quick Sct: Shooting: C+, Rebd: C+
Overall: 68

I wonder if this kid is going to be able to maintain in this dry heat. Its pretty bad out here. Anyway, he's a decent rebounder and defender but I'm wondering if I shouldn't just redshirt him this year.

[elprez98]

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Preseason Top 25




Media Poll Top 25
October 31st, 2006

http://www.ukathletics.com/img/mbb_112004_rondo1_tn.jpg
junior guard, Rajon Rondo leads the #1 ranked Wildcats and team of talented underclassmen starters coined, Fab Five Reloaded
#1[--] Kentucky(0-0) SEC


#2[--] Kansas (0-0) Big 12
#3[--] Maryland (0-0) ACC
#4[--] Texas (0-0) Big 12
#5[--] Florida (0-0) SEC
#6[--] Arizona (0-0) Pac-10
#7[--] Michigan State (0-0) Big Ten
#8[--] UConn (0-0) Big East
#9[--] Louisville (0-0) Conf. USA
#10[--] Gonzaga (0-0) WCC
#11[--] LSU (0-0) SEC
#12[--] Missouri (0-0) Big 12
#13[--] Florida St. (0-0) ACC
#14[--] Syracuse (0-0) Big East
#15[--] Oklahoma (0-0) Big 12
#16[--] Iowa State (0-0) Big 12
#17[--] California (0-0) Pac-10
#18[--] Boston College (0-0) Big East
#19[--] Indiana (0-0) Big 10
#20[--] Wisconsin (0-0) Big 10
#21[--] Pittsburgh (0-0) Big East
#22[--] Wake Forest (0-0) ACC
#23[--] Mississippi St. (0-0) SEC
#24[--] Duke (0-0) ACC
#25[--] Arkansas (0-0) SEC

[elprez98]

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Coach Dillard Wins 1st Game As An Aggie

http://cache.nmn.speedera.net/pics19/200/IE/IEVQKIMJTQLNHTW.20040901153400.jpg
jr forward, Tyrone Nelson scored 23 points in the win over NC State


Aggies 100 NC State 86

March 4th, 2006
RBC Center
Raleigh, NC
Bird- A superstar in the making?

After bursting on the college coaching scene two years ago and showing an ability to win consistently at Radford University, Coach Dillard has made a move to deserts of New Mexico to try his hand at success at the mid-major level of play. The Aggies have been invited to two separate preseason invitational tournaments, Urban Coaches Invitational held at the RBC Center in North Carolina, and the Artic Circle Classic which is held at the KeyArena in Seattle, Washington.

In the first round of the UCI Preseason Tourney, the Aggies faced ACC perrinial spoiler and tourney host, NC State. The Wolfpack seemed taken by surprise by the superb play of the Aggies, falling back early as the Aggies opened the game 21-5. "We talked about their talent, but we severly underestimated the play of that big boy in the middle. I can't believe he's just a freshman. Coach Dillard will probably be making major waves this year," added Coach Chris Black, head coach of the 'Pack.

Eventually, NC State recovered from their late start going on a 14-6 run and pulling within six, 38-32 with 2:41 remaining in the half. By halftime, the Aggies went back into the lockerroom with a smile and a 5-point halftime lead, 44-39. The Wolfpack got a strong performance from their junior star, Cedric Simmons, who had 15 points and 3 rebounds at the half.

The Aggies came out the lockerroom looking very sharp. The Aggies took a commanding 54-41 lead with over 18:40 to play after an opening half 3-point basket by junior guard, Elijah Ingram, and two consecutive ol' fashioned 3-point plays by senior guard, Antwan Alexander and freshman phenom, Maury Bird.

The Wolfpack tried to ratchet up the defensive play following the Aggie run, scoring six straight points from a stifling full court press. Unfortunately for the 'Pack, Coach Dillard called a timeout to regroup the Aggie squad, and they came out with a renewed fervor and broke the game open from in the paint. Freshman center, Maury Bird scored 8 straight points, then senior guard, Byron Davis hit a three that sealed the victory 96-80 with 2:30 remaining.

"I'm sure they just underestimated us and our talent level. But I'm sure that win is raising some eyebrows now though," said junior forward, Tyrone Nelson who scored 23 points and grabbed 11 boards. However player of the game honors didn't go to Nelson. 7'0, 232lb Freshman, Maury Bird lead all scorers with 28 points, 14 rebounds, 2 steals, and 2 blocks.

Now with a big win under their belt, the Aggies advance to the 2nd round of the Tournament and face Central Connecticut who beat E. Tennessee State in the first round, 81-72. CCU senior guard, DeMario Anderson scored 31 in the win, including 7-7 from downtown.


Players of the Game
NMSU: fr center, Maury Bird: 28 points, 14 rebounds, 2 steals, 2 blocks, 2 assists, 13/15FG
NCSt: jr forward, Cedric Simmons: 29 points, 7 rebounds, 3 assists, 3 steals


Mr. Aggie
jr forward, Tyrone Nelson: 23 points, 11 rebounds, 7/10FG, 9/10FT


New Mexico State Contributions:
jr guard, Elijah Ingram: 16 points, 6 assists, 2 steals, 4/12 3pts, 4 TO
sr guard, Antwan Alexander: 13 points, 8 assists, 2 steals, 3 TO
sr guard, Byron Davis: 10 points, 4 assists, 5/8FG

Wolfpack Contributions:
sr guard, Engina Atsur: 17 points, 4 assists, 4 steals, 5/18FG, 5 TO
so guard, Majak Mcgrath: 10 points, 3 assists
jr forward, Andrew Brackman: 6 points, 11 rebounds, 3/9FG



Key Stats:

FG%:
NMSU: 41/73 .562
NC State : 38/84 .267

3pts:
NMSU: 4/14 .286
NC State:04/15 .267

Assists
NMSU: 35
NC State: 24

Rebounds:
NMSU: 47(4)
NC State: 38(10)

Points in the Paint:
NMSU: 42
NC State: 24

[elprez98]

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Aggies Advance to UCI Tourney Finals

http://cache.nmn.speedera.net/pics19/200/IE/IEVQKIMJTQLNHTW.20040901153400.jpg
jr forward, Tyrone Nelson scored 17 points and grabbed 8 boards in the win


Aggies 72 C. Conn 63

November 16th
RBC Center
Raleigh, NC

2nd half run leaves Central Connecticut stunned

Shut down Demario Anderson and you shut down the Blue Devils. No not "those" Blue Devils, but the Blue Devils of Central Connecticut. That was the mantra, Coach Dillard and his staff tried to tell their players. Not that C. Conn. is one dimensional, but, based on their play in the first round of the Urban Coaches Invitational, it seemed as good of a plan as any other. In the 1stt half, the Aggie players didn't seem to take much head of their head coach.

Centra Connecticut senior guard, Demario Anderson scored 30 points in the game, with 21 coming in the 1st half alone. "Its funny, we tell them, we practice. We tell them, we practice again. I guess the guy (Anderson) had to actually drop 21 on their heads before they listened to us, " added NMSU Assistant Angelo Allison, the Aggies defensive coaching wizard.

The Blue Devils looked to counter-attack the swarming half-court zone of the Aggies. A very good strategy, seeing that this brought the Aggies into early foul trouble. Two Aggie starters, senior Elijah Ingram and freshman Maury Bird both left with over 12:00 minutes left in the half due to foul trouble. With 8:55 left in the half and the score in favor of the Blue Devils 21-12, the Aggies' overzealous defense put them in the double bonus for the remainder of the half and hampered any chance of a solid run for the half.

"Luckily for us, even though Tyrone (Nelson) was struggling early, Morg (junior center, Jean Morgan) and him had hit a couple of big buckets from the field and at the line at the end of the half. That's what brought us within striking range," added senior Elijah Ingram who scored 14 points including 4/9 from downtown. The Aggies made a "mini" push and pulled with 2 at halftime, 29-31.

With terrible shooting by both squads in the 1st twenty minutes of play, the 2nd half saw both teams pick up their play but the Aggies picked it up a bit more down the stretch. The one bright spot for an overall luckluster game for Aggies senior, Byron Davis was a spectacular drive, shot, and foul that gave him his only points of the game and the Aggies the lead, 34-31 with over 17:00 minutes to play.

Due to most of the Aggie stars being in foul trouble, Coach Dillard had to reach further down on the bench and nearly everyone played well. "At least, in the 2nd half when we put Rios on him(Anderson), Rios is a bigger player but still relatively quick. he made Anderson play our game and someone else was going to have to beat us," said Coach Dillard.


At 15:56, Maury Bird, the agile seven-foot freshman got back on the floor, he made his presence felt scoring eight straight shots from in the paint and sparking an Aggie 12-4 run to balloon the lead to 8, 46-38 with just over 11:00 minutes remaining. A second 12-4 run put the game away with 3:44 left to play. Elijah Ingram hit consecutive 3 point baskets during the run as the Aggies took a commanding 68-53 lead with 2:36 to play and went ahead for the win, 72-63.

Now 2-0, NMSU heads to the finals tomorrow and faces the a very dangerous Oregon Ducks squad that defeated Rider 79-63 and Loyola Marymount (90-56) to get to the finals. A key matchup will be between the two very talented point guards:Ducks' senior, Aaron Brooks and Aggies' senior, Elijah Ingram.

Players of the Game
NMSU: junior foward, Tyrone Nelson: 17 points, 8 rebounds, 6/18FG
CCU: senior guard, Demario Anderson: 30 points, 4 rebounds, 10/13 FT, 9/24 FG



Mr. Aggie
senior guard, Elijah Ingram: 14 points, 3 assists, 4/9 3pts, 2 TO


New Mexico State Contributions:
fr center, Maury Bird: 12 points, 10 rebounds, 4 steals, 4/8 FG
jr forward, Delbert Simpson: 3 points, 5 rebounds, 6 assists, 3 blocks
jr center, Jean Morgan: 8 points, 4 rebounds, 4/6 FG
jr guard, Josh Jenkins: 6 points, 4/6 FT, 1/5 FG

Blue Devils Contributions:
sr guard, Javier Mojica: 13 points, 3 rebounds, 4 assists, 3 steals , 6/6 FT, 7 TO
sr center, Ingo Beaudet: 4 points, 10 rebounds
jr forward, Ed Gerrity: 7 points, 7 rebounds, 3 assists



Key Stats:

FG%:
NMSU: 23/63: .365
CCU: 16/64: .296

3pts:
NMSU: 4/16 ..250
CCU:3/11 ..273

Assists
NMSU: 17
CCU: 10

Rebounds:
NMSU: 40(5)
CCU: 40(6)

Points in the Paint:
NMSU: 22
NC State: 14

Blocks
NMSU: 7
CCU: 3

[elprez98]

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Aggies Play Swarming Defense to Win the UCI Tourney

http://cache.nmn.speedera.net/pics19/200/IE/IEVQKIMJTQLNHTW.20040901153400.jpg
jr forward, Tyrone Nelson scored 19 points and grabbed an amazing 21 rebounds to earn Most Oustanding Player Honors.


Aggies 72 Oregon 63

November 17th
RBC Center
Raleigh, NC

Inside dominance leads New Mexico State to victory down the stretch

The Aggies look good......real good. Facing a team that was glaringly more talented on paper, Coach Dillard and the Aggies played a superb defensive game that has sports writers everywhere loosely throwing around the phrase, "legitimate contenders" whenever they speak about New Mexico State. "I'm wondering about that myself," added Coach Dillard during tonight's post-game press conference. "This team went to the Sweet Sixteen last year. Yes, they lost their leading scorer to the draft, but the rest of these kids are tough. Plus, I would say Maury(Bird) is doing rather well for himself," chuckled the happy Aggie coach.

The phrase "rather well" could be considered by some to be an understatement, since Bird is averaging 18 points and 11 rebounds through the three games played in the Urban Coaches's Invitational, including 18 points, 15 rebounds, and 3 steals in tonight's win. Combining the exceptional play of Bird and Nelson, the Ducks seemedto be unprepared for their inside domination.

Early on, the match was a back and forth battle with neither team gaining more than a 3-point lead until an Aggie freshman, Peter Burton, came away with a steal, and led the break for a jam and the foul to expand the Aggie lead to 6 points, 24-18 with just under ten minutes to play in the half.

The Ducks didn't wilt unde the pressure however, and with a furious combination of three-point baskets and steals, the Ducks went on a 13-4 run to close the half with the lead, 33-30.

"We pretty much shot ourselves out of the game. I mean, yes, we were up at halftime, but it was only a matter of time before shooting 5/24 from downtown is going to hurt you. Especially when you play a team like New Mexico State that's got that serious inside game. They shot high percentage shots and we didn't, bottom line," commented Ducks coach, Roger Hornsby.

As the 2nd half opened, Aggie freshman, Maury Bird looked to take over inside the paint. By the time a couple of minutes passed in the 2nd half, Bird had scored 8 straight points, which sparked Aggie team play. Then with just 9:45 remaining, New Mexico State's star guard, Elijah Ingram, hit consecutive three-point attempts to give his team a 51-48 lead.

Then with just 8:17 left to play, two Aggie underclassmen had the entire building in awe when freshman Peter Burton threw a nasty alley-oop pass to sophmore Wilson Avery to extend the lead, 55-48. "Yea, me and Pete gotta a name for it too. Its called, "Skipping Class," said Avery who's only points of the game came from that play.

The Ducks still wouldn't go away quietly. Junior forward, Marty Leunen, scored 8 of his 15 points in the last 7 minutes of the game, including a 17-footer to bring the Ducks within a point with 1:57 to play. "Marty was our only bright spot tonight. I shot horribly, Bryce(Taylor) had an off-game amd so did Malik(Hairston). The Aggies earned their win tonight," added Ducks senior Aaron Brooks, who scored just 6 points on a 1/22 shooting night.

As time wound down, the Aggies got insurance from senior guard, Antwan Alexander who scored on a 18-foot jumper with just 1:35 remaining. Then after a steal, Alexander drove to the hoop, scored and was fouled. He hit the accompanying foul shot to give the Aggies a 67-62 lead. Then finally, Alexander threw a great pass to junior, Delbert Simpson for a monster jam and a foul. Simpson hit the freethrow that gave the Aggies a 70-62 lead, and the Aggies went on to win the game 64-72.

"It's great to have the chance to come all the way out here to North Carolina, and win a tournament like this one. With us winning against NC State and Oregon, hopefully we might even see a little "love" in the rankings this year. I'm loving this, i mean all this winning. Its great," added junior foward, Tyrone Nelson, who scored 19 points and grabbed 21 boards and the Oustanding Player of the Game Award.



Players of the Game
NMSU: junior foward, Tyrone Nelson: 17 points, 21 rebounds, 9/21FG
Ore: senior guard, Malik Hairston: 16 points, 8 rebounds, 1/10 3pt, 7/25 FG



Mr. Aggie
freshman center, Maury Bird: 18 points, 15 rebounds, 3 steals, 2 TO


New Mexico State Contributions:
sr guard, Elijah Ingram: 13 points, 7 assists, 2 steals, 4/10 FG, 2 TO
sr guard, Antwan Alexander: 13 points, 4 assists, 2 steals 4/8 FG, 5/6 FT

Ducks Contributions:
sr guard, Aaron Brooks: 6 points, 10 rebounds, 10 assists, 4 steals, 1/22FG, 1/16 3 pts 7 TO
sr guard, Bryce Taylor: 13 points, 3 assists, 2 blocks, 4/20FG
jr forward, Marty Leunen: 15 points, 9 rebounds, 2 assists, 6/8FG



Key Stats:

FG%:
NMSU: 28/82: .341
ORE: 25/85: .294

3pts:
NMSU: 2/12 .167
ORE:5/36 .139

Assists
NMSU: 25
ORE: 19

Rebounds:
NMSU: 61(6)
ORE: 52(6)

Points in the Paint:
NMSU: 22
NC State: 14

Blocks
NMSU: 4
ORE: 2

[elprez98]

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Aggies Roll Through 1st Round of Artic Circle Classic

http://cache.nmn.speedera.net/pics19/200/IE/IEVQKIMJTQLNHTW.20040901153400.jpg
jr forward, Tyrone Nelson scored 27 points in the win over the Broncos


Aggies 83 W. Michigan 65

November 18th, 2006
KeyArena
Seattle, Washington

Nelson=Dominance

After winning the UCI Tourney, the 3-0 Aggies had very little time to celebrate and no rest. Immediately following the that tournament, the Aggies caught a plane to Seattle, Washington to participate in another tourney, the Arctic Circle Classic.

"I knew that the traveling would take its toll on the guys, but the AD and I believe that this was an opportunity we couldn't pass on," added Coach Dillard. "Once we were in the hotel, my assistants and I were scrambling, trying to get whatever kind of info we could on the Western Michigan squad."

The Aggies didn't really need the research, however, crusing to an easy 83-65 victory and advancing to the second round of the tourney. Aggie forward, Tyrone Nelson, dominated the game scoring 27 points and grabbing 11 rebounds. "I really thought that the jetlag was going to effect our game. I guess it didn't," joked Nelson.

The Aggies face their first ranked oppponent next round, when they matchup against #23 Mississippi State Bulldogs.




Players of the Game
NMSU: jr forward, Tyrone Nelson: 27 points, 11 rebounds, 11/18FG
WMU: so guard, Colin Mims: 20 points, 7 assists, 4 TO


Mr. Aggie
sr guard, Elijah Ingram: 15 points, 8 assists, 5-15FG, 4/11 3 pts


New Mexico State Contributions:
sr guard, Antwan Alexander: 11 points, 5 steals, 4/8FG
sr guard, Byron Davis: 8 points, 4/5FG

Broncos Contributions:
jr guard, Kristof Kendrick: 16 points, 5 assists, 6/12FG, 6 TO
fr forward, Andrius Blakman: 9 points, 4/7FG



Key Stats:

FG%:
NMSU: 34/77 .442
WMU: 25/63 .397

3pts:
NMSU: 4/14 .286
WMU: 1/8 .125

Steals
NMSU: 11
WMU: 2

Points in the Paint:
NMSU: 36
WMU: 28

[elprez98]

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Aggies Start the Season 6-0 to Win Two Big Name Tourneys


Aggies 113 Miss State 102
Aggies 65 Ga So. 57

November 18th-20th
KeyArena
Seattle, Wa

Aggies prove to have great team play to win Artic Cirlce Classic

It has been said before, and it will be said again. THE AGGIES LOOK VERY GOOD THIS YEAR. Blowing through the UCI tourney with very impressive wins over ACC powerhouse, NC State, and the resurgent Pac-10, Oregon Ducks the Aggies looked to prove even more. Heading from the RBC Center in North Carolina, the Aggie squad hopped a flight to Seattle only to overwhelm Western Michigan with inside dominance. The Aggies next foes wouldn't lie down so easily.

The #23 ranked, Mississippi State Bulldogs, were favored to be crowned champions of the tourney, but were denied an appearance in the finals by an Aggie explosion of offense. With 4 players in double figures, including "diaper dandy," freshman Maury Bird's 25 points and 8 rebounds in just 17 minutes of play.

"He's just awesome. If he doesn't go to the league this year or the next, I'd hate to have to be the colleges that will have to TRY to contain him his junior year. Heck they can only hope to contain him now. He's like Shaq with a spin on Larry Bird's name, its kinda...funny," exclaimed senior guard, Elijah Ingram who also scored 25 points and hit 7 of 12 3-point attempts against the Bulldogs. The Aggies made the score look like an NBA game, defeating the Bulldogs, 113-102.

The Aggie dominance didn't stop there, however. New Mexico State moved to the Artic Circle Classic Finals and also defeated Georgia Southern, 65-57. Although the skill level between the two teams was in favor of the Aggies, the Georgia Southern Eagles kept in very close throughout the game.

"I'm sure all the emotion and travelling finally caught up with us. Luckily, the guys dug deep and pulled it out in the end. I'm very proud of this team and with the wins we had in these couple of tourneys, I think we have the potential to do big things this year," added Coach Dillard satisfyingly.

[elprez98]

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Preseason Top 25




Media Poll Top 25
November 20th, 2006

http://www.ukathletics.com/img/mbb_112004_rondo1_tn.jpg
With five players in double figures, Kentucky's FAB FIVE Reloaded....wins easily over Coppin State last week
#1[--] Kentucky(1-0) SEC


#2[2] Kansas (1-0) Big 12
#3[4] Texas (2-0) Big 12
#4[3] Maryland (1-0) ACC
#5[7] Michigan State (1-0) Big Ten
#6[15] Oklahoma (1-0) Big 12
#7[11] LSU (2-0) SEC
#8[12] Missouri (3-0) Big 12
#9[13] Florida St. (2-0) ACC
#10[10] Gonzaga (2-0) WCC
#11[5] Florida (1-0) SEC
#12[20] Wisconsin (1-0) Big 10
#13[25] Arkansas(2-0) SEC
#14[--] Georgia Tech (2-0) ACC
#15[21] Pittsburgh (1-0) Big East
#16[18] Boston College (1-0) Big East
#17[--] Texas Tech (1-0) Big 12
#18[--] Illinois (2-0) Big 10
#19[6] Arizona (3-1) Pac-10
#20[--] Xavier (2-0) A-10
#21[24] Duke (2-0) ACC
#22[--] North Carolina (2-0) ACC
#23[22] Wake Forest (4-1) ACC
#24[--] Cincinnati (1-0) ACC
#25[23] Mississippi St. (6-1) SEC

[KeeperEUSC]

Looking good this year coach, we might just get ourselves a ranking

[elprez98]

Not the way they played in this next game......lol

[elprez98]

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Mavericks Stun Aggies in First Regular Season Contest


Aggies 73 UT-Arlington 89

November 22nd, 2006
Pan-American Center
Las Cruces, NM

Coach Dillard is furious over loss....

"We let our heads get too big and it costed us BIG TIME," exclaimed the Aggies new coach. " I have to admit, though, that kid Floyd was having an exceptional game against us. But we didn't stick to the game plan."

Coach Dillard was specifically referencing, Maverick senior, Stephen Floyd, the 6'3 shooting guard that blasted the Aggies for 41 points. Floyd's one-man dominance including a scorching 9-17 performance from behind the arc that left the entire Aggie squad bewildered.

"We dropped the ball. Namely, I dropped the ball," added Aggie senior, Elijah Ingram. He was hot. I mean the cat was on fire. But we could've cooled him down a bit. But we just didn't executed on the zones and matchups Coach D put in place. We have no one to blame but ourselves and our overzealous egos," he said.

Ingram and Nelson, two upperclassmen that the rest of the Aggie squad look toward for leadership, combined for just 7-28 shooting. "THOSE TWO ARE NOT TO TAKE ALL THE BLAME," yelled Coach Dillard. The coach continued with a bit more subdued tone after regaining his composure, "we are a team, it shows that we didn't play team ball when we don't rebound. If you can't score, do whatever you are good at. There were a lot of people who didn't hustle and didn't work to get good shots. This was an all-around disaster, and the blame starts right, here,"

The Aggies did have a couple of bright spots in the storm, however. Freshman phenom, Maury Bird, did show more flashes of brilliance. Scoring 24 points, the only times the Aggies looked semi-competitive was when he was on the floor. "Me scoring is cool, but really I'd rather win. I was trying pretty hard out there. But this is just one game, we're GONNA bounce back," added the confident freshman who also added 7 rebounds, and 5 blocks in the performance.

The (6-1 0-0) Aggies finally get some time off, and then head north for state bragging rights when the face the Lobos in Albuquerque.


Players of the Game
NMSU: fr center, Maury Bird: 24 points, 7 rebounds, 2 steals, 5 blocks, 11/16FG
UT-Arl: sr guard, Stephen Floyd: 41 points, 13/26FG, 9/17 3-pts


Mr. Aggie
jr guard, Josh Jenkins: 9 points, 3 assists, 3 steals 4/5 fg


New Mexico State Contributions:
jr guard, Elijah Ingram: 14 points, 3 assists, 3/11 3pts
sr forward, Tyrone Nelson: 8 points, 7 rebounds, 2 assists, 2/10 fg


Maverick Contributions:
jr forward, Myles Guidry: 13 points, 4 rebounds, 2 assists
jr forward, Larry Posey: 5 points, 10 rebounds

[elprez98]

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Lobos Win First Interstate Meeting



http://graphics.fansonly.com/photos/schools/nm/sports/m-baskbl/auto_headshot/18447.jpeg
Lobos forward, Sean Phaler's 13 points and 5 rebounds added to the Lobos decisive victory


Aggies 84 Lobos 97

November 29th, 2006
The Pit, Unversity Arena
Albuquerque, NM

Aggies buried under a mountain of freethrow attempts...

"It was the same play, and we couldn't stop it. We have size, we have talent, but we obviously don't lear from our mistakes," said Aggies foward, Tyrone Nelson following the Aggies 97-84 loss to cross-state rivals, the New Mexico University Lobos. With 6 players with 3 fouls of more, the Aggie coaching staff found themselves scrambling throughout the whole game trying to patch together lineups and on the fly gameplans to counteract the Lobos' onslaught.

Early on, the game was very close with neither team gaining more than a 3 point advantage until the Lobos went on a 14-6 tear to close the half with the lead, 52-42. Lobo junior, Courtney Tamir was the catalyst for the run, scoring 14 of his team high, 24 in the 1st half.

In the 2nd half, the Lobos contined their dominance, never letting the Aggies get any closer than nine points. The Lobos managed to get all 5 starters in double-figure scoring as well. New Mexico University just put together an all around great game including field goal efficiency, rebounding, and aggresive moves towards the basket.

"With all of us in foul trouble we really couldn't put a real run together. It was a lil' bit here, and a lil' bit there, but nothing for real. These loses have been a bit humbling after our runs in the tourney," added Ingram who did everything he could scoring 29 points and notching 6 assists.

The Aggies head back home to heal their wounds and face the Lobos again on Saturday for a rematch of today's loss.


Players of the Game
NMSU: sr guard, Elijah Ingram: 29 points, 3 rebounds, 2 steals, 6 assists , 9/18FG, 7/16 3pts
NMU: jr guard, Courtney Tamir: 24 points, 2 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 steals, 3 TO, 12/12FT

Mr. Aggie
sr guard, Elijah Ingram: 29 points, 3 rebounds, 2 steals, 6 assists , 9/18FG, 7/16 3pts



New Mexico State Contributions:
jr forward, Tyrone Nelson: 12 points, 4 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 TO
fr center, Maury Bird: 15 points, 2 rebounds, 7/10 FG


Lobos Contributions:
jr guard, Darren Prentice: 13 points, 2 rebounds, 7 assists, 3 TO
jr forward, Tony Dandridge: 14 points, 3 rebounds, 3 assists
jr foward, Sean Phaler: 13 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 steals
jr forward, Bombale Osby: 17 points, 9rebounds, 8/12 FG

Team Stats:

Aggies
FG %: 33/65 .508
3pt %: 8/18 .421
FT%: 10/13 .769
Assists: 20
Turnovers: 10
Team Fouls: 26
Rebounds: 24(3)
Steals: 7
Blocks: 2


Lobos
FG %: 32/53 ..604
3pt %: 0/3 .000
FT%: 33/41 .805
Assists: 24
Turnovers: 9
Team Fouls: 12
Rebounds: 35(3)
Steals: 8
Blocks: 2

[elprez98]

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Lobos hand Aggies 3rd Straight Loss of the Season





Aggies 84 Lobos 66
December 2nd, 2006
Pan-American Center
Las Cruces, NM

Aggies lack of defense glaring in losses to Lobos...

Somebody once said, "offense sells tickets, but defense wins games." Whoever came up with that saying might have been speaking particularly about the Aggies.

In the last couple of games, Coach Dillard's trademarked emphasis on defense seemed non-existent. Surrendering 97 points and a 60% percentage in "The Pit" earlier this week, today's game proved to be show little improvement. "I don't know what we're lacking but whatever it is, we need to find it quickly because I think Coach D might explode. His veins were all big, and he looked like he's grayed a bit just in these last couple of games," added Nelson, the Aggie foward who scored 22 points in the loss.

The Aggies kept the game competitive in the first half, 38-37 was the score at halftime. However, the 2nd half defense of the Aggies fell apart as Lobos junior, Tony Dandridge began to heat up and hit shots from all over the court. Dandridge scored 15 of his game high, 26 in the 2nd half alone.

"We've got to get some defense out there. I mean we look confused and bewildered. Befused is what my mom used to call it," added an Aggie assistant. The Aggies now fall to 6-3 and Coach Dillard needs to find a way to bring the troop together to end the slide. New Mexico State does have a bit of time off, until December 13th, to face the 3-0 UTEP Miners.




Players of the Game
NMSU: jr forward, Tyrone Nelson: 22 points, 3 rebounds, 2 steals, 4 assists , 9/18FG
NMU: jr forward, Tony Dandridge: 26 points, 3 rebounds, 5 assists, 11/15 fg

Mr. Aggie
sr guard, Byron Davis: 10 points, 2 rebounds, 2 assists , 5/10 fg


New Mexico State Contributions:
fr center, Maury Bird: 14 points, 6 rebounds, 6/10 FG
sr guard, Antwan Alexander: 9 points, 4/8 fg
sr guard, Elijah Ingram: 8 points, 6 assists, 3/7 fg


Lobos Contributions:
jr guard, Darren Prentice: 11 points, 14 assists, 5/8 fg
jr forward, Tony Dandridge: 14 points, 3 rebounds, 3 assists
jr foward, Sean Phaler: 8 points, 4 rebounds
jr forward, Bombale Osby: 13 points, 4 assists, 13 rebounds, 5/6FG

Team Stats:

Aggies
Points: 70
FG %: 29/59 .492
3pt %: 2/7 .286
FT%: 10/15 .667
Assists: 26
Turnovers: 12
Team Fouls: 12
Rebounds: 26(5)
Steals: 6
Blocks: 2
PiP: 30
Bench: 17
2nd Ch: 0
Fast Br: 2

Lobos
Points: 91
FG %: 32/53 .610
3pt %: 4/11 .364
FT%: 15/18 .833
Assists: 33
Turnovers: 8
Team Fouls: 12
Rebounds: 30(2)
Steals: 9
Blocks: 0
PiP: 30
Bench: 24
2nd Chan: 0
Fast Br: 4

[KeeperEUSC]

Fans are not very happy, "We went from possibly being ranked, to 6-3. Who does this Dee Dillard guy think he is anyway?"

[elprez98]

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Preseason Top 25




Media Poll Top 25
December 4th, 2006



#1[2] Kansas(4-0) Big 12


#2[3] Texas (6-0) Big 12

#3[1] Kentucky (4-1) SEC (a loss to Chapel Hill knocked 'em down)

#4[5] Oklahoma (2-0) Big 12

#5[7] Florida State (6-0) ACC

#6[6] Missouri (5-0) Big 12

#7[8] Gonzaga (5-0) WCC

#8[9] Florida (5-0) SEC

#9[16] California (4-1) PAC-10

#10[12] USC (4-0) PAC-10

#11[4] Michigan St. (5-1) Big 10

#12[13] Georgia Tech (5-0) ACC

#13[17] Arizona(4-1) PAC-10

#14[15] Texas Tech (5-0) Big 12

#15[18] LSU (3-1) SEC

#16[10] Wisconsin (4-1) Big 10

#17[24] Oregon (6-1) PAC-10

#18[22] Duke (5-0) ACC

#19[23] Cincinnati (4-0) Conf. USA

#20[25] South Carolina (5-0) SEC

#21[--] Louisville (2-1) Conf. USA

#22[19] Wake Forest (5-2) ACC

#23[--] Memphis (8-0) Conf. USA

#24[--] Pitt (4-1) Big East

#25[--] San Diego State (4-0) MWC

[Anonymous]

You were bashing Florida State, now look at them climbing the charts. As for you I was wishing you the best of luck on busting into the top 25 but now with a couple of losses its going to be really hard. Keep up the great work though with your legacy, I love following it.

[elprez98]

You were bashing Florida State, now look at them climbing the charts. As for you I was wishing you the best of luck on busting into the top 25 but now with a couple of losses its going to be really hard. Keep up the great work though with your legacy, I love following it.

Yea, but they're still some scrubs.... :lol: j/k. Yea, I haven't looked at their squad for the year but they being the top ranked ACC team is no easy feat.....but we'll see how the year goes.

[elprez98]

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Aggies Rebound Big Against the Miners







Aggies 84 Miners 66
December 13th, 2006
Pan-American Center
Las Cruces, NM

Aggies played very good team defense for the win.

The Aggies have finally stopped the slide with a decisive victory over the UTEP Miners. With double-digit scorers this game, the Aggies looked confident, poised, and dominant once again. "We started off the year hot, and I think the constant travelling and the emotional rollercoaster of winning and losing took its toll on us. Hopefully, we may have found our winning swagger once again," Coach Dillard commented non-chalantly after the game.

The Miners really had no answer for the Aggies inside scoring. Thirty-four of the Aggies points came from dropping the ball inside, and letting the big men do the rest. "The entire team was hustling but especially the big men. And its also reassuring when you get great play from unexpected places," said Coach Dillard. Coach Dillard was most likely alluding to the great play of junior forward, Delbert Simpson, who contributed 10 points, 3 rebounds, and 2 assists in the win.

"I guess its the little things that motivate you sometimes. In fact, just the other day, after that second loss to the Lobos, Elijah(Ingram) was on a message board. One fan wrote: "We went from possibly being ranked, to 6-3. Who does this Dee Dillard guy think he is anyway?" Elijah is a bit partial to Coach, so he posted the quote in the lockerroom. I guess it got a lot of the other guys motivated, and they really looked like they had something prove out there. I hope they can keep that fire going," added Aggie assistant Angelo Alison.

Now the (7-3) Aggies will head to El Paso to hold the accompanying grudgematch against the (3-2) Miners.




Players of the Game
NMSU: fr center, Maury Bird: 15 points, 8 rebounds, 6/9 fg
UTEP: so forward, Adam Outlaw: 13 points, 6 rebounds, 5/7 fg


Mr. Aggie
jr forward, Tyrone Nelson: 13 points, 14 rebounds, 4/8 fg


New Mexico State Contributions:
jr forward, Delbert Simpson: 10 points, 2 assists, 3 rebounds, 3/7 fg
sr guard, Byron Davis: 11 points, 4 steals, 4/10 fg
sr guard, Elijah Ingram: 8 points, 7 assists, 3/8 fg
jr center, Jean Morgan: 9 points, steal, 6 rebounds, 4/7 fg


Miners Contributions:
jr center, Stanley Branch: 8 points, 5 rebounds
sr guard, Sylvester Hood: 5 points, 8 assists, 14 rebounds
fr foward, Akil Hacker: 11 points, 4/5 fg


Team Stats:

Aggies
Points: 76
FG %: 26/56 .464
3pt %: 3/12 .250
FT%: 21/28 .750
Assists: 20
Turnovers: 7
Team Fouls: 19
Rebounds: 39(5)
Steals: 6
Blocks: 1
PiP: 34
Bench: 30
2nd Ch: 6
Fast Br: 2

Miners
Points: 58
FG %: 22/56 .393
3pt %: 1/10 .100
FT%: 13/20 .650
Assists: 17
Turnovers: 9
Team Fouls: 20
Rebounds: 33(3)
Steals: 3
Blocks: 2
PiP: 10
Bench: 16
2nd Chan: 0
Fast Br: 0

[elprez98]

Coach D's Monthly Recruitment Notes 2006:

December 4th, 2006:
When the early recruiting period ended last week, we didn't really expect to have anyone sign with us. And...no one did. It's cool though, because we've still got a lot of good prospects to continue recruiting throughout the season. So far, we've only lost two of the one's we were shooting for. We lost Donny Fulton a phenom out of Inglewood, Cali to Arizona. I kinda figured we didn't have the weight we needed to beat them out but he's should be one of those kids to look out for if we ever have to meet up against them. We also lost Dez White, a 6'6 shooting guard from Salem, Oregon. He ended up signing with Portland. With his size and that great potential I wouldn't be surprised if we hear his name in some NCAA tourney in the near future. But enough of the past, lets look to the future.

Recruiting Focus


5-Star Recruits:
Matt Grafs 6'3, 184lb
H.S. All-American, Santa Ana, Ca
Quick Scout: Off: A-, Sht: A, Reb: A-, Intel: A-

This guy looks like the TRUTH. With his solid offensive skills, respectable defense and intelligence, he looks to make waves in whatever college circle he goes. Not to mention he's 6'3, aso you know we want him HERE. Right now, according to (asst coach) Roy, we're probably #2 on his short list that includes Iowa State, Duke, 'Zona, and UNC. That pretty darn good company. Good thing is there are only 2 scholarship offers on the table, and we're one of them. Plus though we're not considered a "major" school yet, his 2nd priority is being close to home, so we've definitely got some things going in our favor. I'm going to cross my fingers too, though.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

4-Star Recruits:


Allen Wrenn
6'4 203lb H.S. senior
Lakewood, Colorado
Quick Sct: Hustle: B+, Shooting: A, Intel: B+

Scouting Report:

I didn't even know they played basketball in Colorado. Just kidding, but on the real, this guy should step in well for Antwan and Byron's departures. Right now, we're about #3 on his list, but we're the only one who has offered him a free ride so early on. Honestly, I can't feel good letting UTEP get this guy so....I guess we're going to hit him hard and often. He's very interested in AggieLand, and feeling wanted is #2, so i bet if we bombard him, he'll know the right choice to pick.




Martin Minoff
6'1 173lb H.S. senior point guard
Albuquerque, NM
]Quick Sct: Offense: A-, Shooting: B, Intel: B

Scouting Report:

I guess someone had to get the ball to Maury up there in Albuquerque. This cat went to the same high school and is just one year behind Maury. Hopefully we can send Maury up there a couple times and get him to "talk" to his boy. The kid must be pretty good though, he's Mr. New Mexico for the year and looks like Maury's old mates might make another run at the state championships with this kid. Right now, wer' still #4 behind UTEP, UNM and Iowa State. Wait a second, why do all these kids wanna go to Iowa State???? Only 2 scholarships so far, so we've still got a good chance.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Now we've got a couple of others that we're adding to the mix but we'll see how that goes later on in the season.

[elprez98]

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Miners Get Revenge With A Buzzer Beater




Aggies 56 Miners 58
December 13th, 2006
Don Haskins Center
El Paso, Texas

Valiant effort, not enough for Aggies

One of the keys to a great team is consistency. The Aggies are obviously not a great team. Demolishing an overmatched Miners squad in Las Cruces, the Aggies came to Texas confident that they could win against the Miners a second time. As the game progressed it seemed that the Miners would not stop digging this time.

Both teams had trouble finding their shots, scoring just 41 points combined at halftime. The Aggies did have a slight lead going into half, 22-19, but with star guard, Elijah Ingram, not hitting his outside shots the game would only get worse.

The 2nd half was back and forth until the Aggies went on a minor 12-4 run that was capped by a three point shot by Ingram with just 10 minutes remaining. The Miners answered, going on a 14-4 run to bring themselves back and ahead by one, 49-48, with just over two minutes to play. Ingram answered immediately with another three-point basket to give his team a slim two point lead with 1:50 remaining. The Miners would not be upstaged, however, and junior guard, Vernon Carr hit a BIG basket from the corner to tie the game again, 51-51.

Though going 6-18 from 3-point land throughout the game, Aggie senior, Elijah Ingram, seemed to continue to hit the big three when it was really necessary. With just 1:08 to play, Ingram hit his 6th 3-point basket of the game. But again the Miner guard, Carr answered right back with another 3 point basket to tie the game at 54.

Then with just 21 seconds to play the Aggies had the ball and dropped it in the post to Tyrone Nelson, who hit the baby-hook shot to put his team up by two. Then as the Miners pushed the ball back downcourt, the referees seemed to make a questionable call. Ingram was called on a reach-in foul that sent the Miners to line for two shots since they were in the penalty.

After making both shots, the Miners fouled Ingram to send him to the line. After missing the 1st of a one-and-one, the Miner pushed the ball back downcourt again, and dropped the ball down low, where Miner center, Sylvester Branch hit the game-winning shot, that sent the Aggies home shocked with their fourth loss of the season.


Now the (7-4) Aggies will head back out west to meet the hapless (0-6) UCI Anteaters




Players of the Game
NMSU: sr guard, Elijah Ingram: 20 points, 2 assists, 6/19 fg
UTEP: jr guard, Vernon Carr: 15 points, 5/8 fg


Mr. Aggie
fr center, Maury Bird: 12 points, 9 rebounds, 2 assists, 4/10 fg


New Mexico State Contributions:
jr forward, Tyrone Nelson: 5 points, 6 rebounds, 2/6 fg
so forward, Wilson Avery: 2 points, 7 rebounds



Miners Contributions:
jr center, Stanley Branch: 15 points, 10 rebounds, 6/12 fg
sr guard, Sylvester Hood: 6 points, 5 assists, 3 rebounds, 2/7 fg
so forward, Adam Outlaw: 5 points, 9 rebounds, 2 assists, 1/7 fg


Team Stats:

Aggies
Points: 56
FG %: 19/61 .311
3pt %: 6/24 .250
FT%: 12/15 .750
Assists: 15
Turnovers: 6
Team Fouls: 21
Rebounds: 30(4)
Steals: 6
Blocks: 2
PiP: 12
Bench: 12
2nd Ch: 2
Fast Br: 2

Miners
Points: 58
FG %: 21/49 .429
3pt %: 3/11 .273
FT%: 13/21 .619
Assists: 16
Turnovers: 12
Team Fouls: 11
Rebounds: 41(3)
Steals: 5
Blocks: 3
PiP: 16
Bench: 13
2nd Chan: 0
Fast Br: 0

[elprez98]

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Aggies Overrun Anteaters in Their Own House, 75-39



Aggies 75 Anteaters 39
December 19th, 2006
Bren Events Center
Irvine, Ca

35 points from the bench showed signs of a bit of team ball

The Aggies started the regular season with a bang. Even though early on in the game it didn't look promising. The Anteaters surprised the Aggies by going on a quick 7-0 run to take a commanding 15-6 lead with twelve minutes to play. "When they opened up on us like that, I think we started to panic. Thinkin' this was UT-Arlington Part 2. But once we settled in, and with Jean(Morgan) spearheading the charge, it was ALL GOOD," commented Aggie forward, Tyrone Nelson.

Morgan scored eight straight points in the post that ignited a huge Aggie run, that carried into halftime, 36-27. "We were aggressive and it showed in the free throw department," said Coach Dillard. The Aggies outshot the Anteaters at the line, 24/32 to 3/6.

Later in the 2nd half, the Aggies went on a huge 23-4 run to put the game out of reach. "This was one we needed. That loss to UTEP was heartbreaking and this one builds our confidence," added Aggie senior, Byron Davis who also contributed 12 points to the cause.

The (8-4) Aggies now head back to Texas, but this time to face, (3-2) UT-San Antonio.

Players of the Game
NMSU: jr forward, Tyrone Nelson: 15 points, 11 rebounds, 4/5 fg, 7/7 ft
UC-Irvine: sr forward, Nic Campbell: 15 points, 5/8 fg

Mr. Aggie
jr forward, Jean Morgan: 10 points, 5 rebounds, 4/4 fg


New Mexico State Contributions:
sr guard, Byron Davis: 12 points, 5/6 fg
fr center, Maury Bird: 8 points, 7 rebounds



Anteater Contributions:
sr forward, Nic Campbell: 18 points, 4 rebounds, 3/9 fg
so guard, Carlton Crenshaw: 8 points, assist, 3 rebounds, 3/14 fg
jr forward, Darren Fells: 8 points, 3 rebounds, 4/8 fg


Team Stats:

Aggies
Points: 75
FG %: 24/48 .500
3pt %: 3/11 .273
FT%: 24/32 .750
Assists: 15
Turnovers: 3
Team Fouls: 10
Rebounds: 34(4)
Steals: 8
Blocks: 0
PiP: 20
Bench: 35
2nd Ch: 2
Fast Br: 4

Anteaters
Points: 39
FG %: 17/53 .321
3pt %: 2/12 .167
FT%: 3/6 .500
Assists: 24
Turnovers: 11
Team Fouls: 16
Rebounds: 28(4)
Steals: 2
Blocks: 4
PiP: 18
Bench: 4
2nd Chan: 0
Fast Br: 0

[elprez98]

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Aggies Win the Ol' Fashioned Texas Shootout


http://cache.nmn.speedera.net/pics7/200/EA/EAEKAEGBBUBGFGF.20040901152032.jpg
Elijah Ingram scored 31 points, including 9 of 12 three-point attempts and grabbed MOP honors



Aggies 80 RoadRunners 65
January 1st, 2007
San Antonio, Texas

Ingram drowns Roadrunners with a 3 point deluge.....

Aggie senior, Elijah Ingram hit nine 3 point baskets in New Mexico State's first win of the new year. Shooting an uncanny, 11/17 from downtown, the Aggies made quick work of the overmatched Roadrunners.

"I was just feelin' it. When I get like that, son, its lights out for whatever team I'm finna torch," added the Aggie senior. As a team New Mexico State shot nearly 60% for the game in every catagory, including freethrows. " I hope they enjoy this win, because if I know Coach, when we get back to home, they are going to work for missing those freethrows," chuckled Aggie assistant coach, Roy Beck.

The (9-4) Aggies have completed the bulk of their non-conference schedule (there are still 2 more non-conference games to playn within their conference schedule) and open conference play against (5-4) North Texas.


Players of the Game
NMSU: sr guard, Elijah Ingram: 31 points, 3 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steals, 9/12 3-pts
UT-San Antonio: jr guard, Adam McCoy: 22 points, 2 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 steals,





Mr. Aggie
jr forward, Tyrone Nelson: 11 points, 9 rebounds, 5/6 fg


New Mexico State Contributions:
sr guard, Byron Davis: 10 points, 3 assists, 4/8 fg
fr center, Maury Bird: 9 points, 5 rebounds



RoadRunner Contributions:
sr center, Dwain Hall: 15 points, 8 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 blocks 3/9 fg
sr guard, Kurt Attaway: 7 points, 6 assists, 3/8 fg
jr forward, Darren Fells: 8 points, 3 rebounds, 4/8 fg

[elprez98]

Aggies Explode for 51 2nd Half Points, Win 86-69


http://cache.nmn.speedera.net/pics28/200/VP/VPEJXIQKIEBCEQX.20041103213135.jpg
junior point guard, Josh Jenkins was the catalyst, scoring 20 points off 7/11 shooting



Aggies 80 Mean Green 65
January 6th, 2007
Las Cruces, NM

Another great bench performance by the Aggies

"Now these last two games, these have been team games. I'm not sure what we were doing before. I'm very impressed with everyone off the bench," Coach Dillard said satifyingly in a post game interview.

Coach Dillard had much to be impressed with from his bench. Two of the three players that scored in double figures, came off the bench(Wilson Avery-12 and Josh Jenkins-20) and gave the Aggies the 2nd half push they needed to leave the Mean Green in the New Mexico desert dust.

Early on, it didn't look very easy for the Aggies because they seemingly had no answer for the hot shooting of Calvin Watson, the North Texas shooting guard who was ironically playing point guard. "That's the only problem with not having a true point guard," said Dominic Darden, the North Texas head coach. "If a shooting guard that is playing point gets hot, he's not as likely to pass the ball and he makes the team one-dimensional and that is usually not a great thing in college ball."

At halftime, the score was tied at 35, due to a last second three-point buzzerbeater by Jenkins. "When I was him hit that shot, I knew it was "all-gravy" for us," said senior, Elijah Ingram who led all Aggie scorers with 22. "Josh he likes to dribble and make pretty passes, but when he starts to drain 'em like that, watch out now!"

When the 2nd half started, the Aggies came back out like an even-better oiled machine, and obliterated the Mean Green. The Aggies shot 60% in the 2nd half (18/30 FG) and got great production from almost everyone. "Well part of it is I think we, as a coaching staff, completely understand everyone's capabilities and its easier for us to coach, and them to play with that understanding under our belt," added Coach Dillard.

With their first conference win, the (10-4, 1-0) Aggies head to (8-4, 1-2) Tulsa for another great matchup with the WAC conference.

Players of the Game
NMSU: sr guard, Elijah Ingram: 22 points, 2 assists, 3 TO, 7-15 FG
North Texas: sr guard, Calvin Watson: 28 points, 2 rebounds, 6 assists, 2 steals


Mr. Aggie
jr guard, Josh Jenkins: 20 points, 3 assists, 7/11 fg


New Mexico State Contributions:
sr guard, Byron Davis: 10 points, 3 assists, 4/8 fg
fr center, Maury Bird: 9 points, 5 rebounds
jr forward, Tyrone Nelson: 8 points, 16 rebounds


Mean Green Contributions:
jr forward, Quincy Williams: 6 points, 10 rebounds, 3/6 fg

Team Stats:

Aggies
Points: 86
FG %: 32/60 .533
3pt %: 6/16 .375
FT%: 16/26 .615
Assists: 20
Turnovers: 11
Team Fouls: 15
Rebounds: 48(7)
Steals: 4
Blocks: 1
PiP: 38
Bench: 43
2nd Ch: 3
Fast Br: 0

Anteaters
Points: 69
FG %: 27/70 .386
3pt %: 8/25 .320
FT%: 7/9 .778
Assists: 19
Turnovers: 4
Team Fouls: 17
Rebounds: 31(4)
Steals: 8
Blocks: 1
PiP: 28
Bench: 18
2nd Chan: 5
Fast Br: 2

[elprez98]

Aggressive Aggies Win Again



Aggies 68 Hurricanes 59
January 8th, 2007
Las Cruces, NM

Aggressive play results in freethrow dominance

The Golden Hurricanes came to Las Cruces with a very talented team (overall: 85) with the ability to make a run for their conference title. However, the Aggies aren't too shabby themselves and the Hurricanes found that out in this matchup. Getting a lead early, Tulsa guard, Brett McDade scored 15 of his team high, 19 points, in the 1st half alone.

"He's (McDade) very talented. He got off to a great start early, but Elijah's(Ingram) defense started to pick up later in the 1st half. And as you can see, we forced him to pass a bit more in the 2nd half," said Coach Dillard.

The Aggies ended the 1st half with a 14-6 run, to go into the lockerroom with a 38-32 lead. Freshman center, Maury Bird led the Aggies into the half, with 12 points and 2 blocks. " We wanted to go out there and make a statement that said, WE MEAN BUSINESS," said the fabulous freshman. Bird ended the game with 17 points, 12 rebounds, Player of the Game honors, and an impressive, 5th double-double for the year.

In the 2nd half, the Aggies were able to run the Golden Hurricanes out of the gym. Expanding the lead to more than 15 points at one point in the game, the Aggies never allowed the lead to fall lower than 9 points. " In the lockerroom, Coach D said push up the tempo since these cats couldn't run with us. He was right," said senior Antwan Alexander who scored 10 of his 14 points in the 2nd half.

New Mexico State also owned a sizable advantage in the freethrow shooting department outshooting their opponents, 20/26 to just 2/3 for the Hurricanes. "To me this shows that they are again playing team ball. This is how we want to win games," added Coach Dillard.

Players of the Game
NMSU: fr center, Maury Bird: 17 points, 12 rebounds, 2 blocks, 5/10 fg
Tulsa: jr guard, Brett McDade: 19 points, 4 assists, 2 steals, 9/19 fg


Mr. Aggie
jr forward, Tyrone Nelson: 14 points, 2 steals, 4 rebounds 7/9 fg


New Mexico State Contributions:
sr guard, Antwan Alexander:14 points, 3 rebounds, 6/8 fg
sr guard, Elijah Ingram: 9 points, 5 assists, 3 rebounds
jr center, Jean Morgan: 4 points, 3 assists, 3 rebounds
sr guard, Byron Davis: 3 points, 3 assists,
fr forward, Wilson Avery: 3 points, 2 rebounds
fr forward, Peter Burton: 2 points, 2 rebounds
fr forward, Terry Rios: 2 points, 3 assists, 2 rebounds
jr forward, Delbert Simpson: 2 assists, 3 rebounds

Tulsa Contributions:
sr forward, Yusef Baker: 14 points, 5 rebounds, 3 assists 7/11 fg
sr forward, Charles Ramsdell: 11 points, 2 assists, 5 rebounds
jr guard, Dione James: 6 points, 8 assists

Team Stats:

Aggies
Points: 68
FG %: 24/51 .471
3pt %: 0/10 .000
FT%: 20/26 .769
Assists: 19
Turnovers: 8
Team Fouls: 4
Rebounds: 34(5)
Steals: 6
Blocks: 3
PiP: 24
Bench: 14
2nd Ch: 4
Fast Br: 8

Golden Hurricanes
Points: 59
FG %: 27/62 .386
3pt %: 3/17 .320
FT%: 2/3 .778
Assists: 23
Turnovers: 7
Team Fouls: 19
Rebounds: 29(6)
Steals: 4
Blocks: 3
PiP: 20
Bench: 9
2nd Chan: 6
Fast Br: 2

[elprez98]

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AGGIES' MID-SEASON REPORT

Record:
-11-4 overall
-1-0 conference
-6-0 preseason invitationals
-3-0 vs. ranked opponents(#16 NC State, preseason #23 Miss. State, and #18 Oregon)

Head Coach:
Dee Dillard
-49-23 overall
-18-10 and 20-9 last 2 years with Radford Highlanders
-2 consecutive NCAA tourney appearances


STARTERS:


[b]#12 Elijah Ingram, senior point guard
Preaseason overall: 83
Current Overall: 87


-Elijah is one of the BIG three for this Aggie squad. He can shoot, score, pass and play defense which makes him one of the premier guards in the entire NCAA. Elijah at midseason, averages just over 16 ppg while adding 4.8 assists every go around. If his shooting is off he usually has the discipline to pass to an open man and make the whole team better.


Last Season:
14.2 ppg, 3.8rpg, 4.4 apg, 2.0spg, 44.7%FG, 41.5%3pt
This Season:
16.3 ppg, 1.2rpg, 4.8 apg, 1.2spg, 37.5%FG, 38.3%3pt
--------------------------------------------------------

#23 Antwan Alexander, senior, shooting guard
Preseason Overall: 71
Current Overall: 75

Antwan is streaky, pure and simple. He can go out and light 'em up for 15 points in a half and then COMPLETELY disappear. Plus, the kid's foul prone. Would be an awesome scorer if he could improve his jumpshot a bit too since he's probably one of the quickest players in the game(speed:90). But either way, he's definitely a wonderful piece to the Aggie puzzle.
Last Season: 8.3ppg, 1.5rpg, 2.0apg
Current Season: 6.8ppg, 1.3rpg, 2.8apg
--------------------------------------------------------

Tyrone Nelson, junior, 6'10 216lb power foward
Preseason Overall: 79
Current Overall: 84

Tyrone is having a breakout season this year. His greatest improvement is on the glass. Averaing just under 6 boards a game last year, Nelson has jumped to over 9 boards a game this year. What's even more impressive, is that Tyrone has done this averaging nearly 3 less minutes this year(26.1 compared to 29.1 last year). Tyrone has the size, skill, and ability to make an impact in the NCAA and on the next level. Hopefully refining that skill this year, and hopefully next year(if he stays) he will be a force to be reckoned with.


Last Season: 12.7ppg, 5.9rpg, 1.9apg, 1.6bpg
Current Season: 14.8ppg, 9.3rpg, 1.3apg
--------------------------------------------------------

Maury Bird, 7'0 232lb, freshman center
Albuquerque, NM
Preaseason Overall: 79
Current Overall: 81

Sorry Eddie Curry but I think we have a NEW man-child. THis guy is awesome. With great a great mid-range jumper and near-unstoppable post moves, Maury Bird is a shoe-in for the Sun-Belt Freshman of the Year, and may even win the Conference Player of the Year Award. Averaging just under 15 ppg, Maury is no relation to Larry but seems like he should be. He's big, he's white and he's GOOD.....

Last Season: NONE
Current Season: 14.6ppg, 8.7rpg, 1.1spg, 1.0bpg, 52.6% FG
--------------------------------------------------------

Delbert Simpson, 6'8 224lb, junior small forward
Preaseason Overall: 71
Current Overall: 75

Delbert is just a workhorse. He doesn't score alot but man can he rebound and pass the rock. You would think that Elijah or Josh would lead the team in alley-oop passes, but no, its Delbert. Whether its a great drop into the post to Tyrone or Maury, or a great lead/alley-oop to Elijah or Antwan on the break, Delbert is a joy to watch play because anytime he's on the floor, you know one guy you don't have to worry about giving 100% effort.

Last Season: 3.0ppg, 3.2rpg, .6apg
Current Season: 3.3ppg, 5.1rpg, 3.3apg


[i]Bench:
(sr)G, Byron Davis, rating: 73 (70)
-Byron can flat out score, if he gets hot....look out

(fr)F, P. Burton: 71 (69)
-great in the open floor, can see well for good passes on the break
-not great in the halfcourt, and man does he make some bonehead mistakes

(jr)F, Josh Jenkins, Rating: 70 (65)
-great backup pg, can pressure defend almost anyone
-decent mid-range, but I tend to cringe when he jacks up those 3's every once in a while

(so)F, Wilson Avery, Rating: (70) 64
-has a lot of potential, gives a lot of solid minutes off the bench to rest Tyrone

(jr)C, Jean Morgan: 72 (70)
-very good leader
-seems like whenever were down a bit, if I put him in there he'll go ahead and settle the team down by scoring in the post and grabbing big boards

(fr)F, Rommain McCoy: 65 (64)
-decent rebounder, but doesn't hustle on every play, I hate that

(fr)F, Terry Rios: 64
- Terry is very quick for his size., and a decent low post defender
-some teams tend to have that big/quick small forward and Terry does great to matchup against those guys

Reserves:
B. Jeffers, J. Dominguez, Wallace Wing, Predrag Lenbullicer

Well that's the team, for those us who are just joining in on the action midseason.

[elprez98]

5th Straight Win for Dominant Aggies



Aggies 76 Privateers 46
January 11th, 2007
Lakefront Arena
New Orleans, Louisiana



Aggies go up big early and never look back

Can anyone come back after being down 28-5 in the first half? I'm sure it has happened before, but not today, and definitely not today against the Aggies. The Privateers got ambushed early by the Aggies great play by the front court.

"It wasn't looking to good from the outset. Their point guard, (Elijah) Ingram hit a 3 pointer to start the game. The next 2 posessions were ol' fashioned 3 point plays by two of their big men. By that time, we're down 9-2, they've gotten a good deal of momentum, and it snowballed from there," added Kurt Devonish, the Privateer head coach.

The Privateers were also hindered by foul trouble, especially those shouldered by Privateer senior and defensive leader, Bo McCalebb. The Aggies went to the line 27 times, hitting 21. This aggressive playstyle has the Aggies ranking in the top 10 in freethrow attempts (6th) in the NCAA.

Freshman phenom Maury Bird, scored 15 points and grabbed 8 boards on his way to another Player of the Game honor for the year.

On Saturday, January 13th, the Aggies (12-4, 2-0, overall: 85) head further east to matchup against Southern Alabama (7-3, 1-1 overall: 82).


Players of the Game
NMSU: fr center, Maury Bird: 14 points, 8 rebounds, 6/9 fg
UNO: sr guard, Bo McCalebb: 10 points, 3/5fg

Mr. Aggie
sr guard, Elijah Ingram: 14 points, 4/7fg


New Mexico State Contributions:
jr forward, Tyrone Nelson: 11 points, 5 rebounds 4/8fg
sr guard, Antwan Alexander:8 points, 3 assists
jr center, Jean Morgan: 2 points
sr guard, Byron Davis: 3 points
fr forward, Wilson Avery: 2 points, 6 rebounds, 1/8fg
fr forward, Peter Burton: 4 points, 2 steals
fr forward, Terry Rios: 6 points, 3 assists, 5 rebounds
jr forward, Delbert Simpson: 4 points, 4 assists, 2 rebounds
jr guard, Josh Jenkins: 6 points, 4 assists


UNO Contributions:
jr guard, Kris Clark: 9 points, 3/15fg

Team Stats:

Aggies
Points: 76
FG %: 27/55 .491
3pt %: 1/5 .000
FT%: 21/27 .778
Assists: 23
Turnovers: 3
Team Fouls: 14
Rebounds: 31(6)
Steals: 8
Blocks: 2
PiP: 32
Bench: 26
2nd Ch: 6
Fast Br: 6

Privateers
Points: 41
FG %: 14/41 .341
3pt %: 1/9 .111
FT%: 12/18 .667
Assists: 7
Turnovers: 17
Team Fouls: 23
Rebounds: 26(3)
Steals: 3
Blocks: 3
PiP: 2
Bench: 16
2nd Chan: 0
Fast Br: 0

[Anonymous]

looks like you guys might be ranked next week.

Do you watch your games or do you actually play them?

[elprez98]

looks like you guys might be ranked next week.

Do you watch your games or do you actually play them?

Thanx for reading first of all. But I play coach mode with this legacy. It makes for a bit more interesting drama for me. Like last game, it had gotten so bad for our opponents, that i put in the bench, and started cooking dinner. I had forgotten that the game was playing(sort of when you watch blowouts and the coach is d#%n near sleep on the bench) but the subs came in and did a great job. A couple of games back, I put Josh Jenkins(my backup pg) in and watched him shoot the lights out when he was on fire(normally a drive/pass kinda player). To me its more interesting because at any time, my players may do well or struggle and I can't "make" him play well. So to make the long story short, i play coach mode with these, everyone should try the mode.

[Anonymous]

Interesting... I just finished a 40-year legacy mode but I simulated most of the games and focused on recruiting.