A Road Painted Scarlet: The OSU Legacy

[BuckeyePride81]

Are you ready for the diaper dandies?
The 2004 Season - D.Vitale

It's college baskeball season baby! Some new faces are looking to make a statement in San Antonio, and some old favorites are back to defend their histories. In anticipation of the season, I'm gonna give everyone a sneak peak at Dickie V's outlook!

The Top Five Teams to look for cutting down the net:

1) Connecticut: UConn comes into the season ranked number one, and deservingly at that. Coach Calhoun has had a great deal of success with the UConn program, and I'm looking for the Huskies to make a run for the title! The Huskies are going to need to rely on the outside shooting phenom Joe Peterson (SG) to be a standout shooter in his Junior year. Likewise, Luther Tamir will need to dominate the boards down low on both offense and defense.

2) North Carolina: You gotta love the powder blue! UNC has one of the most impressive starting fives in all of the country. They'll need to rely on their sophmore guards Bill Madison and Rafael Jennings to lead this young team through the year. One of the only drawbacks in UNC's situation is the lack of depth on the bench they have, as a result of a young team. Staying Injury free is a must for the Tar Heels.

3) Kentucky: The team America loves to hate, UK as always is coming full force with a stable of stars underneath the wing of coach Tubby Smith. Although the Wildcats have struggled in recent years of the tournament, look for them to be a 1 or 2 seed in this season's bracket.

4) Duke: Going back to the always stacked ACC, the Cameron Crazies have a lot to look forward to in the 03'-04' season! Coach K as always is ready to lead this team to the Final Four, and should never be underestimated for his coaching experience and cool demeanor.

5) Cincinnati: Although many would say having faith in the Bearcats come tournament time is blind, the Kitties from Cincy have a lot of potential in the coming season. It's going to be crucial for Coach Huggins to maintain order, leading a team of many JuCo students and players "rough around the edges". Expect to see Huggins' bloodvessels strained as always, but possibly with a championship to show for his intensity.

As we enter the season, its hard to pin down who's going to show and who isn't. I know for one thing that Dickie V is looking forward to some barn-burners this year!

Are you ready for some College Hoops baby!?!?!?!

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Coach Williams looks to lead Buckeyes to success

It's official: Coach Eric Williams, well known for his 2 state championships leading the Amelia Barons in Div I High School ball, and his numerous successions in Division II NCAA play, is making a giant leap up to the big leagues. Williams will helm the Ohio State Buckeyes in the coming year, despite his lack of Division I experience. OSU Administration told ESPN that "Williams has proven himself time and time again through his coaching performance. Some people may think we're risking too much here, however, with our team's recent struggles, a man like Eric could be just what we need to turn it all around." Furthermore, Coach Williams was slated in a press conference this week stating that:

(Williams): I am fully aware that there is a big gap being bridged here, and yes, I know I am under high scrutinty. Failure at this level is not an option, and I am aware of this. I believe wholeheartedly that OSU will be at the forefront of the Big Ten in years to come, however, every structured team must have a foundation. I consider myself to be laying the concrete now that will allow this program to climb the ladder in San Antonio in years to come.

Williams went on to discuss his excitement with his new coaching staff, comprised of assistants Adam Tobias and Bradley O'Neil. Tobias and O'Neal bring a high-caliber coaching staff to a team that has struggled to find its place in NCAA play. With the changes in the office at Ohio State, Buckeyes across the country have a lot to get excited about.

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Buckeyes Announce Season Schedule
The Columbus Reporter - Columbus Ohio

Whoa nelly! Campus is abuzz about the new schedule recently released for the 2003-2004 Season the OSU Buckeyes will be playing!

The Schedule Goes As Follows:

AVAC Tournament - November 13th
OSU @ Dayton - November 21st
OSU @ San Diego State - December 1st
BNC Tournament - December 2nd
OSU vs. Virginia Tech - December 6th
OSU vs. UAB - December 13th
OSU vs. Furman - December 17th
OSU @ Seton Hall - December 20th
OSU @ Florida - December 23rd
OSU vs. Dartmouth - December 28th
OSU vs. Florida State - December 30th
OSU vs. Texas Tech - January 4th
OSU @ Illinois - January 7th
OSU @ Penn State - January 10th
OSU vs. Minnesota - January 17th
OSU vs. Indiana - January 20th
OSU @ Iowa - January 24th
OSU vs. Wisconsin - January 28th
OSU @ Michigan - January 29th
OSU @ Purdue - January 31st
OSU vs. Northwestern - February 4th
OSU vs. Michigan State - February 7th
OSU @ Wisconsin - February 14th
OSU vs. Iowa - February 18th
OSU @ Indiana - February 21st
OSU @ Minnesota - February 25th
OSU vs. Penn State - March 3rd
OSU vs. Illinois - March 7th

The Buckeyes will most definately be tested this year! The question is, is Coach Williams pushing the young buckeyes too far? We'll find out soon, as the Buckeyes head into the AVAC tournament!

[BuckeyePride81]

The AVAC Tournament

OSU's first trial will be one of its most difficult: The AVAC tournament.

The Eight teams invited to this years tourney are comprised of:

Syracuse
Memphis
Villanova
Marquette
Oklahoma
Ohio State
Georgia
Texas

With three ranked teams in this tourney, this could be a very big test for its participants:

Syracuse vs. Memphis:

Coming off of a national title, the Orangemen are expected to squeeze the juices right out of the Tigers from Tennesee. Look for great outside shooting and true dominance from the Cues.

Nova vs. Marquette:

Expect the Golden Eagles to emerge victorious here, Conference USA has become more and more of a difficult conference, and this year will be no different.

Oklahoma vs. Ohio State:

With a shaky, unproven head coach, expect the Sooners to roll right over the Buckeyes. OSU is simply too unproven to threaten the Sooners.

Georgia vs. Texas

Look for the Longhorns to gore the Bulldogs inside, and dominate the tone of the game. Although Georgia has a chance here, Texas shouldn't have much trouble taking care of buisness.

These four games are the first of the season! Look for some impressive performances around the table!

[BuckeyePride81]

The Buckeyes: Starting Five
A Columbus Reporter Exclusive

Center - Ray Adams

Adams is a question mark for the Buckeye faithful, in the fact that although Adams is a senior, he is most likely the weakest of the starting five. Expect Adams to work the boards as much as possible to assist the Buckeyes anyway he can.

Power Forward - Avery Adler

Adler is a big man with a big purpose. He's not afraid to take it to the basket and slam it home, or crash the boards to come up with key rebounds. He could be essential in OSU's effort to establish itself as more than just another school.

Small Forward - Israel May

May completes the trifecta of powerful rebounders that OSU will bring to the court. The Buckeyes really need to rely on these 3 to bring in the misses, along with taking the ball down the court for an easy two. As a freshmen, May has a lot to learn...and even more to gain.

Shooting Guard - Brian James

James may be number 0, however, he's anything but that. James is the hometown boy, born and raised on the streets of Columbus dreaming of one day being a Buckeye. In his second year as a member of the team, look for James to set the tempo game after game for the Buckeyes to follow.

Point Guard - Dennis Norton

This Junior has the makings of a three point monster. One of the best three point ballers in the game, Norton will be crucial for the late game comebacks OSU will need to hope for with this crushingly powerful schedule. Norton could make or break the Buckeyes in 04'.

We'll have more for you after the Buckeyes first round matchup against the Boomer Sooners from Oklahoma.

Expect the Unexpected!

[J Hall]

3) Kentucky: The team America loves to hate, UK as always is coming full force with a stable of stars underneath the wing of coach Tubby Smith. Although the Wildcats have struggled in recent years of the tournament, look for them to be a 1 or 2 seed in this season's bracket.



How are you gonna hate my team!? lol

This is startin out nice man. Glad to see you picked a team you like. Look forward to following this one.

[BuckeyePride81]

Boomer Sooners bury Buckeyes in First Round
Buckeye Faithful left in awe after opening day thrashing

When the Buckeyes opened up with two quick twos to lead 4-0, and a steal by Small Forward May, Ohioans began to stomp their feet in hopes of a rousing start to the season.

Within minutes, they were stricken silent.

Oklahoma answered back with authority, with an 11 point run to go ahead 11-4. OSU never truly came back into the game. The Sooners led at the half by a score of 35-27. The Buckeyes had fought a valiant effort to maintain their composure trailing for all but the first minute of the first half, however, the second half presented a far worse perspective.

One of the most crucial failures of the OSU players this day was the complete failure to be effective from three, going just under 10 percent from beyond the arc. Coach Williams stated he was "embarrassed by the lack of effort" from Dennis Norton, the three point prophet that OSU fans were looking to adore. Norton scored a dismal 7 points, and fouled out with seconds remaining.

In the second half of play, after a short period of back and forth scoring, OU began a run from the score of 39-31. That run would go on for the next 26 points...leaving Buckeye faithful with their jaws to the floor. Once OSU finally broke the run of stealing, shooting and utter domination, the Buckeyes went toe to toe with the Sooners, outscoring them in the final 7 minutes 28 to 19. Williams told reporters that, despite the beating, the team performed well when it could withold its composure, and that preventing future runs of the sort that gave OU the immense lead was a primary goal.

The Sooners finally ended the game with a 84-49 victory over the bewildered Buckeyes. However, all is not lost in the land of the scarlet and gray. Center Ray Adams stood out as a down low force, both offensively and defensevely, with a double-double in rebounds and points.

Williams said later he was looking forward to facing the Flyers of Dayton, now that the Buckeyes have faced their initial shock in the Carrier Dome, and know where to go.

Key Stats:

Field Goal Percentage:

OU - 53.3 %
OSU - 38.1 %

Free Throw Percentage:

OU - 60.1%
OSU - 0% (Out of 4)

Turnovers:

OU - 8
OSU - 16

Player of the Game - Eric Hancock (OU)

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Sooners come home with the AVAC Title

Much to the delight of worried OSU faithful, the Sooners of OU defeated the Marquette Golden Eagles 80-63 in the title game of the AVAC tournament tonight. With OU's victory, they will likely accend to the top 10 in the nation, over the Syracuse Orangemen who in shocking fashion fell to the Memphis Tigers 61-45 in the first round of the invitational. As we approach the regular season, it is becoming apparent that there is much to be discovered about the current top 25 and where they are truly headed.

[BuckeyePride81]

It's the Ak-Attack!

Ohio State Buckeyes(0-1) vs. Dayton Flyers(0-0)

OSU began its battle against Dayton amidst nervous whispers of a season headed for destruction. The Buckeyes and Flyers opened up in an intense display of legitimate desire, with players exchanging blows, arguing over fouls, and fans fighting amongst themselves. Within a few minutes, Dayton had pulled ahead to a 16 to 10 lead. Where last week the Buckeyes failed to recognize this issue, Coach Williams called a quick time out, stabilized his team, and sent them back onto the court, where the Buckeyes would battle back to a 24 all tie with a few minutes remaining.

Then it happened.

Dayton began the run that Coach Williams had worried about following the OU game in the AVAC tourney. Dayton opened it up to a 35-24 lead at the half, with the OSU faithful debating whether to head to their cars early or stay for the shilacking.

As the second half of play began, starting PF Avery Adler was playing at best mediocre down low, enticing Williams to sub in the rebounding demon Leon Atkinson. It was in this moment that the Ak-Attack was born. While Dayton fans and players alike stood in awe, "The Ak" drove to the hoop for 12 straight points, taking the Buckeyes to a 38-37 lead. (Atkinson would finish with 20 pts and 9 rebounds). The duel to the death was now set.

From this moment on, the largest lead of the game would be a 5 point lead by OSU and a likewise 5 point lead by Dayton in the final minutes. Tied at 56 points each with 4:33 remaining on the clock, it became amazingly apparent that OSU's bench was a huge asset, scoring over 30 of the Buckeye points in the game total. With 40 Seconds left and the score tied 66 all, Dayton's guards began to bring the ball down court taking their time to make sure they had the shot they wanted. However, the ball-carrier made the fatal error of lobbing a dangerous pass down-low to the seemingly open center Alex Duhon, a lob that was intercepted by Dennis Norton, the same Dennis Norton who found himself at the mercy of Coach Williams following the first game. Norton picked off this pass with roughly 30.3 seconds left...leaving time for one shot. Who should take it asked fans and announcers alike? Atkinson down low? His companion Ray Adams, who had another stellar night? With 7 seconds left, SF May flipped the ball out to a determined Dennis Norton, who calling for a quick pick from his parter in crime Brian James, swung around the defense, drove to the hoop, and layed in the most beautiful floater you have ever seen. With 3.8 seconds remaining, Dayton made a valiant effort to chuck the half-court bomb to shatter OSU's dream, but it was no use. The Buckeyes have won their first game of the year, 68-66 in Dayton's own home.

ESPN Announcer Jay Bilas took note of the fact that Coach Williams was beaming with pride for his young team, a team that in two short games had progressed so far. Williams later said it was the greatest game that he has ever coached, from the winning or the losing side.

The Buckeyes next face San Diego State, on the road once again.

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Huskies Remain Top Dog
Connecticut is off and running

At 5-0 UConn currently is solidly in place atop the ESPN POLL. Missouri was the big loser of the week, dropping nearly 20 ranks in their blowout loss.

The Current Top 10 in the NCAA:

1) UConn (5-0)
2) Kansas (2-0)
3) North Carolina (3-0)
4) Mississipi State (3-0)
5) Florida (2-0)
6) Michigan State (2-1)
7) Duke (2-0)
8: Oklahoma (4-0)
9) Illinois (3-0)
10) Arizona (1-1)

Defending champion Syracuse at (1-1) is currently ranked 18th.

[BuckeyePride81]

Buckeyes falter; Go down to lesser Aztecs

http://espn.starwave.com/i/ncaa/clubhouses/index_logos/194.gif Ohio State Buckeyes (1-1) vs. http://espn.starwave.com/i/ncaa/clubhouses/index_logos/21.gif San Diego State Aztecs (1-0)

An Injury suffered to Shooting Guard Brian James would set the tone for a Buckeye performance worth forgetting. The Buckeyes failed to hit most anything in the first half, falling behind to a half-time score of 30-23, trailing the Aztecs by 7. The Buckeyes came out of the locker room with a push to narrow the lead to 3, however, never really got back into the game, eventually falling to the underrated Aztecs 79-62.

Coach Williams was slated as saying in a post-game press conference that he entends to run the legs off of the young Buckeyes in practice this week, after such a dismal output. Luckily for Williams, for the third consecutive game, Senior standout Ray Adams dominated the glass down low, scoring 18 points and collecting 10 rebounds against SDSU.

"We're just missing too many open jumpers, and as usual, bad passes and poor ballhandling are resulting in far too many turnovers" said Williams. "Expect starters to ride the bench if this continues, as some of our best outputs are coming from our deep substitutions."

The Buckeyes face the 5-1 Georgia Tech yellow Jackets in the opening round of the BNC tournament tomorrow.

[nickm]

Awesome legacy, I'm already hooked reading it. I like the way you do your articles and how you reviewed the Top 10. It was also cool how you broke the tourney down. Keep up the good work. 8)

[BuckeyePride81]

Buckeyes fall again; Evidence of Improvement

http://espn.starwave.com/i/ncaa/clubhouses/index_logos/194.gif Ohio State Buckeyes (1-2) vs. http://espn.starwave.com/i/ncaa/clubhouses/index_logos/59.gif Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets (5-1)

Columbus OH (AP) - For the third time this season, and the second game in a row, the Ohio State Buckeyes find themselves on the losing side at the end of the 40 minute slugfest. Despite only trailing by 5 at the half, and the third double double by Ray Adams in 4 games, the Buckeyes fell 80-71. Even though they lost once more, Coach Williams was pleased with his teams performance: "We Shot for over 60 percent in the first half" said Williams. "Considering the brick laying we have been doing in the past this season, that's a big step forward. I'd also like to commend Dennis (Norton) who nailed down 3 trays late in the game to bring us back, he's improving greatly as a team leader.

The Buckeyes are looking forward to their next three games, against Virginia Tech, UAB, and Furman all at home. Williams believes that this team has the chance to really turn the season around with a good home stand. It's reported that a variety of highly interested prospects will be attending the Buckeyes next game vs. Virginia Tech on Saturday, so look for a fired up team come game time.

With the loss, the Buckeyes drop to 1-3.

[BuckeyePride81]

Buckeyes make Brutus proud; Home crowd pleased
Buckeyes pluck the feathers off the Hokies in royal fashion

http://espn.starwave.com/i/ncaa/clubhouses/index_logos/194.gif Ohio State Buckeyes (1-3) vs. http://espn.starwave.com/i/ncaa/clubhouses/index_logos/259.gif Virginia Tech Hokies (4-1)

The Buckeyes came out of the lockeroom fired up and put this game away early. Leading 15-4 in the first few minutes, OSU looked to demolish the VT efforts across the court, especially when Tech's starting Power Forward Terry Walker shattered his ankle mid-way through the first half. State would lead by as much as 18 in the first half, going to the lockerooms up 40-22.

"We lit them up like the fourth of July" said an extactic Dennis Norton, who finally emerged from his shell to lead the Buckeyes with 18 points, 9 of which came from clutch threes to keep Tech down big. "I feel like I've finally found my groove".

Coming out in the second half, both teams shot miserably. Coach Williams later said that "Although we shot miserably from the field, we made up for it with over 20 offensive boards in the game, holding the Hokies to only 5. Likewise, the energetic Buckeyes only turned the ball over on five occasions, a statement completely unimaginable earlier in the year with their consistant 20 turnover performances (or lack-thereof). The Buckeyes ended the game with a 66-45 win over the 4-1 Hokies, putting an end to talks of a horrible season.

"We're growing as a unit" said Center Ray Adams, who with 6 points and 18 rebounds in the game led his team to the win. "The most important thing for us right now is getting ourselves right before Big Ten play starts."

The Buckeyes face UAB on the 23rd of December, a game that could put the Buckeyes at .500 for the first time since November.

Player of the Game:

OSU Senior
Center Ray Adams
18 Rebounds
6 Points
5 Assists

[BuckeyePride81]

Blazers Singe Buckeyes Late; Heartbreaker in Columbus
Columbus has another sleepless night.

http://espn.starwave.com/i/ncaa/clubhouses/index_logos/5.gif UAB Blazers (3-1) vs. http://espn.starwave.com/i/ncaa/clubhouses/index_logos/194.gif Ohio State Buckeyes (2-3)

OSU and UAB in comparison are two very evenly matched programs. It showed early that neither team was going to walk away, as the biggest lead of the first half belonged to the 4 point lead the Buckeyes had on the heals of a Crawford three pointer with 3:03 left to play. The Buckeyes went into the half up 33-32 in a see-saw battle. This game was of even greater importance to OSU, as two of its top prospects were in attendance. Shooting nearly 60 percent from the field throughout the game was one plus for the Buckeyes, although uncharacteristicly the Buckeyes we're out rebounded by the Blazers.

The two teams traded blows late, until Ray Adams missed his first free throw at the line, allowing UAB to drop a quick two to tie it at 64 with 2 seconds remaining. On a quick inbound, Dennis Norton put up a desparation 3 to win it for the Buckeyes, to no avail.

In overtime the Buckeyes jumped out to a quick lead, however, a seven point run by the Blazers left the Bucks down by 3 with 10.3 remaining in the OT session. Despite a great job of taking the ball down court, Norton missed another open three to seal an 82-79 victory for the Blazers from down south.

When asked upon Norton's lack of clutch three point shooting, Coach Williams replied with "No Comment", before slamming the door to his office.

The Buckeyes look to take their frustrations out on a 1-4 Furman team this Wed. at Value City Arena for the third straight week. Following Furman, the Buckeyes face both Seton Hall and Florida on the road.

[Leakfan]

You'd better watch out man or my Gators'll get ya :D

[BuckeyePride81]

Buckeyes struggle early; Norton lights up the sky
Furman makes a charge, Buckeyes stomp Paladins late

http://espn.starwave.com/i/ncaa/clubhouses/index_logos/231.gif Furman Paladins (2-4) vs. http://espn.starwave.com/i/ncaa/clubhouses/index_logos/194.gif Ohio State Buckeyes (2-4)

COLUMBUS OH (AP) - Throughout the game, the after effects of a heartbreaking loss to UAB were evident in the performances of Buckeye players. However, for some Buckeyes, that wasn't a bad thing.

Furman opened up a 11-2 lead on the bewildered Buckeyes early, caught off guard by a team deamed a "pushover". "We over-estimated our talent early" said Williams, who quickly called a timeout to re-organize his troops. Coming out of the timeout, Dennis Norton lit the net on fire with a clutch three to get the crowd in the game, a three that would set the ball in motion. The Buckeyes clawed their way back against a determined Paladin team, taking their first lead of the game with three minutes left in the first half on a Paris Crawford fadeaway, 31-30. The teams would go into the locker-room tied at 39, with Dennis Norton leading both teams with 13 points in the first period of play.

Norton came out of the lockeroom ablaze. Scoring 3 trays in the half (out of 5 total), Norton single-handedly put Furman in its place in the second half. Furman had no means of stopping the hail of Buckeye prowless, as the Bucks went on to win it 83-67. Norton closed the game with an incredible 35 points from the field, nearly double his previous high from the Virginia Tech performance. Shooting 49.3 percent from the field, the Buckeyes held on to move to 3-4.

In a team press conference Norton stated "I had to do it. I blew it for us big time against the Blazers last week, and I'll be ****** if I'll let that happen again".

Norton, the shortest player on the team, is developing into a force both in his ironic ability to drive to the hoop, and his three point shooting. As Coach Williams stated it "Despite the lackluster statistics, Norton shoots for three when it really counts".

The Buckeyes face Seton Hall on the road on Saturday, and Florida on the road the following Tuesday. If the Buckeyes want to close the 2003 portion of the season out in good shape, they'll need two good performances before their next home game vs. Dartmouth on the 28th.

[BuckeyePride81]

Buckeyes show some Brute; Take down hard-fighting Pirates
Seton Hall just didn't have enough against the rallying Buckeyes

http://espn.starwave.com/i/ncaa/clubhouses/index_logos/194.gif Ohio State Buckeyes (3-4) vs. http://espn.starwave.com/i/ncaa/clubhouses/index_logos/2550.gif Seton Hall Pirates (2-1)

Seton Hall, OSU's second Big East opponent, provided a formidable opponent for the struggling Buckeyes. However, in a game so close, Seton Hall was never "really" in it. Ohio State came out confident, and never trailed by more than two points, near the beginning of the game.

"We simply answered" said star PG Dennis Norton. "We've struggled all year at going toe to toe with a team from start to finish, and this time we did it, and it really showed in the long run".

OSU led into the half up 32-30 off of the 10 first half points by second string Small Forward Paris Crawford. The Buckeyes came out in the second half ablaze, leading by as much as 10, and showing control from the get go.

OSU made some poor choices from the field late in the goings, allowing SHU to tie it up with just 8.4 seconds remaining. However, Coach Williams came prepared, pulling a fresh Paris Crawford off of the bench to make a drive to the basket to seal an OSU win at 67-65. Although the outcome of the game is strikingly similar to OSU's nailbiter vs. Dayton, there is no comparison. OSU outplayed the Pirates in every fashion, despite what the score may allude.

Next the Buckeyes head down south to face the 5-3 Florida Gators. OSU looks to reach a winning record for the first time this year, on the heals of a two game winning streak.

[elprez98]

I'm really liking your style man....keep it up

[BuckeyePride81]

Buckeyes push early; fall late to Gators
Gainesville proves too tough for the Buckeye Nation

http://espn.starwave.com/i/ncaa/clubhouses/index_logos/194.gif Ohio State Buckeyes (4-4) vs. http://espn.starwave.com/i/ncaa/clubhouses/index_logos/57.gif Florida Gators (5-3)

GAINSVILLE FL (AP) - For the second time this year, the Buckeyes fall by a basket in the final seconds. OSU came out strong early, with the fourth straight half of quality OSU performance. Leading by as much as 7 before the break, OSU appeared on its way to a big step forward with a win over the resurgent Gators.

Leading 37-35 after the first half, the Buckeyes came out toe to toe against the Florida onslaught, losing ground late. "They just kept the artillery coming" said Williams, in reference to the 6 three pointers that Florida hit against the Buckeyes in the course of the ball game. Late game misses and another clutch three rimming out with under 2 seconds left handed the Buckeyes their fifth loss of the season.

OSU has three home games remaining against Dartmouth, Florida State, and Texas Tech before conference play begins against the Fighting Illini on the 7th of January.

[K Bomber]

Hey cowboy, I'm digging your legacy with a big shovel. It's really a different take on things to start with a known quantity as your legacy team and your presentation has been nice and to the point

I may revise my take on things in year two. I think the subject matter of my read is too dense...........

[BuckeyePride81]

Buckeyes show No Remorse; Obliterate Dartmouth
OSU shows the Big Green there is no such thing as mercy.

http://espn.starwave.com/i/ncaa/clubhouses/index_logos/159.gif Dartmouth Big Green (1-5) vs. http://espn.starwave.com/i/ncaa/clubhouses/index_logos/194.gif Ohio State Buckeyes (4-5)

COLUMBUS OH (AP) - The Buckeyes faced Dartmouth tonight, an Ivy league school with only one win on the season. However, Dartmouth might as well have been Florida or UAB, as OSU played them with the most tenacity they could supply. There was no mercy for the Ivy league cellar-dwellars, as OSU jumped out to a 41-30 lead at halftime. Coming out of the lockeroom, OSU's bench lit up the scoreboard, jumping out to a 21 point lead just a few minutes in.

"We will not play soft against anyone, no matter the margin" said Williams. OSU out-rebounded the Big Green 55-31, a staggering advantage, and went on to win the game 84-59, bringing their record to .500 for the third time this season. The Buckeyes have yet to win a game when at .500.

Unfortunately for the Buckeyes, as they struggle to find their way in the NCAA, Dartmouth was their final "pushover" opponent of the year. The team faces both Florida State and Texas Tech at home in the next few weeks, before beginning conference play in the always tough Big Ten.

With a win over 8-1 Florida State, the Buckeyes would make a giant leap forward in their progress as a unit. However, with their blowout loss to Oklahoma, tough defeat against GT, and last second collapses against UAB and Florida, it will not be an easy road to plow.

[BuckeyePride81]

Shocker in Columbus; Buckeyes looking strong
Why the Seminoles will do no Tomahawk chops tonight

http://espn.starwave.com/i/ncaa/clubhouses/index_logos/52.gif #19 Florida State Seminoles (8-1) vs. http://espn.starwave.com/i/ncaa/clubhouses/index_logos/194.gif Ohio State Buckeyes (5-5)

OSU's faceoff with #19 FSU was the first game for the Buckeyes against a ranked opponent since their dismantling at the hands of the Oklahoma Sooners on the first day of the Season back in October. This time, things went well. In fact, they went amazingly well. Upon taking a 12-0 run only 5 minutes into the game, the Buckeyes found themselves up 30-16. OSU would not find itself leading by less than 10 for the rest of the game.

"We dominated" said Williams. "I've never seen this club play with such authority. If we could play with that same tenacity and desire day in and day out, I think we would have a legitimate shot at making the Big Dance come march.

OSU entered the lockeroom up 45-32, and the lead would only expand further from there. Leading by as much as 26 in the second half with the amazing performances of their all-star quality guards Brian James and Dennis Norton (With 33 points combined on the night), the Buckeyes went on to win 80-60 over the shocked Seminoles, who had nothing to say to reporters.

With this win, the Buckeyes move to 6-5, their first winning record of the season. With only one non-conference game remaining before the grueling three month Big Ten battle, OSU looks to extend their winning streak to three against a hungry Texas Tech team. With a win there, OSU might have what it takes to make a name for itself in lockerooms around the nation.

[BuckeyePride81]

http://www.ap.org/media/images/logo.gif
Men's College Basketball - Top 25

1. Connecticut 10-0
The Huskies continue to flat out dominate the competition

2. Missouri 7-0

3. Duke 7-0

4. Kansas 6-1

5. Arizona 6-1

6. North Carolina 8-1
The Tar Heels are in the top 10 as always

7. Syracuse 8-1

8. Oklahoma State 7-0

9. Pitt 8-0
Undefeated and on the prowl, Pitt breaks into the top 10

10. Mississippi State 8-1

11. Providence 7-0

12. NC State 10-0
Don't turn your back on the Wolfpack. Ten games under the belt, undefeated, and on the move

13. Wisconsin 8-1

14. Oklahoma 8-2

15. Maryland 8-1

16. Stanford 7-1

17. Michigan State 6-2

18. Wake Forest 5-1

19. Florida State 8-1

20. Purdue 8-0
One of three Big Ten teams in the top 25, the Boilermakers are steaming right along towards the Big Dance

21. Arizona State 5-1

22. USC 8-1

23. LSU 9-0
With an impressive nine wins the Tigers break into the top 25 for the first time this year

24. Tennessee 6-1

25. Louisville 6-1

[BuckeyePride81]

Buckeyes light up the net; Extend win streak to 3
Knight bursts while the Buckeyes dismantle Raiders

http://espn.starwave.com/i/ncaa/clubhouses/index_logos/2641.gif Texas Tech Red Raiders (10-2) vs. http://espn.starwave.com/i/ncaa/clubhouses/index_logos/194.gif OSU Buckeyes (6-5)

So FSU was a fluke, right? No, it wasn't. With the latest evidence of a powerhouse hiding in Columbus, I think there is little doubt that OSU is making a run for the tournament.

The Buckeye Nation rose to its feet when the team opened up to an 8-0 run over the Red Raiders, an 8-0 run that would set the tone for a game in which the Buckeyes never trailed. "It was over before it started" said Coach Williams, who was unbelievebly proud of the performance of his young squad. The Red Raiders entered the locker-room trailing 32-26, however, the rout had not yet begun.

With 9:09 left in the second half and the Red Raiders down 15, Coach Bobby Knight was nailed with a warning to discontinue cursing at the head official when Knight snapped, lifting his foldable chair high in the air and jettisoning it into the third row of spectators. An OSU Sophmore student suffered a bruised Collar-bone and mild concussion from Knight's outburst, resulting in Knight being escorted from the arena promptly.

Following the scene, Texas Tech completely fell apart, scoring a mere 14 points in the final nine minutes. OSU finally put the Red Raiders down at a score of 83-53. The win bumps the hard-charging Buckeyes to 7-5 as they enter conference play against Illinois this weds.

[BuckeyePride81]

Buckeyes look to make a statement
OSU could make some thunder in the Big Ten
By James Lawton
The Columbus Reporter

As we reach the 12 game mark, the OSU Buckeyes are on a tear with 3 Consecutive victories against Dartmouth, Florida State, and Texas Tech at home. Let's take a look at the team so far:

http://espn.starwave.com/i/ncaa/clubhouses/index_logos/194.gif Ohio State Mid-Season Outlook http://espn.starwave.com/i/ncaa/clubhouses/index_logos/194.gif

Record: 7-5 (0-0)
Points Per Game: 72.0
Rebounds Per Game: 38.2
Offensive Rebounds Per Game: 14.3 (1st in NCAA)
Field Goal Percentage: 48.9% (5th in NCAA)
Points Scored: 864
Rebounds: 459 (3rd in NCAA)

Despite the 7-5 Record, the Buckeyes have come out to a blazing start. Imposing on defense, and electric on offense, the 5 losses racked up early in the season could become an afterthought if OSU keeps this hot streak alive.

The Starting Five

Center 7'0" 230 Ray Adams (Senior)

11.2 PPG
11.3 RPG
135 Rebounds
21.7 MPG

Adams, a question mark at the start of the year, has turned out to be the dominant rebounding force on this Buckeye squad. He can clean the glass better than just about anybody, and is averaging a Double-Double on the year.


Power Forward 6'9" 190 Leon Atkinson (Sophmore)

8.2 PPG
5.5 RPG
16.9 MPG
59% Shooting

Atkinson began the year at the very bottom of the roster. Then during the Dayton game, when Atkinson scored 12 straight to bring the Buckeyes back from down 11, Coach Williams knew he had a star. Although Atkinson doesn't have the same ability level as other PF, he makes up for it with twice the intensity.

Small Forward 6'8" 220 Israel May (Freshman)

7.4 PPG
4.6 Rebounds Per Game
1.3 Assists per game

May has had his ups and downs this season, largely a part of the freshmen curse. He's split his playing time down the middle with fellow SF Paris Crawford, although a powerful performance vs. Texas Tech has him back in the starting five. Look for more of May down the road.

Shooting Guard 6'5" 200 Brian James (Sophmore)

8.0 Points per game
2.5 Rebounds per game
1.0 Steals per game

James, much like May, has had an up and down year. He's been electric at times, (IE- The Florida State game), and downright flat at others. With the injury to third stringer Martin Towe, and McGuire's mediocre stats, don't expect to see James out of the SG spot anytime soon.

Point Guard 6'1" 170 Dennis Norton (Junior)

13.9 Points per game
1.1 Assists per game
6 Blocks
20.7 Minutes per game
21 3-Pointers

What he lacks in size he makes up for in pure heart. Norton is the team leader on the court, and although he's struggled in the clutch, remains the Buckeye's goto player. Norton will get you out of a jam, whether it be down low off the glass, or from the top of the key.

Key Bench Performers

SF Paris Crawford (Sophmore)

7.0 PPG
13.2 Minutes per game
2.6 Rebounds each game

Crawford has emerged as a dependable sub, who can maintain a lead when the starters need a breath. Although he is older than his SF counterpart May, Crawford plays second string due to May's smooth as silk shooting. However, Crawford's raw emotion can pump a crowd up quickly.

PF Keith Madera (Senior)

4.5 PPG
3.0 Rebounds per game
9.3 Minutes per game

Madera, in conjuncture with Crawford create a powerful support team when the starters need a fresh start. In addition, Madera can take it to the basket just as hard (if not harder than) starter Leon Atkinson, making him a continuously dangerous presense on the court.

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So, what's this mean?

What it all comes down to is the fact that OSU has a team good enough to, in the least, upset a few Big Ten teams during the regular season, and likely make a run in the Conference Tourney. Whether or not this team can stand tall against a highly ranked team is yet to be determined (Outside of the thrashing at the hands of Oklahoma), and will be interesting to see with multiple games against Illinois, Wisconsin, Michigan State, and Purdue in the near future.

- James Lawton