ACC Thread

[YardBirds13]

Figured we might as well just have one of these to talk in throughout the season.


I knew this was gonna happen to my Hoos tonight, but very disappointing that on the national stage Sylven has completely disappeared. I hope people watching aren't seeing him for the first time, because he is so much better than this.

By the way, Mike Scott is my homeboy. Love that guy.

So much for 0-3 bean, you guys were on target tonight.

[beaner]

Sorry Mick, Landesberg was pretty awful tonight. Hopefully he was just nervous on that stage. He'll be fine from here I hope.

Good win for the Heels, Lawson was terrific, 0 turnovers. Much needed.

[Sports Guy]

There are 4 teams in the conference that are good...MD, VT and Miami will battle for the other spot.

I said the over/under in terms of NCAA tourney teams was 5.5 when the year started and that I would take the under...I still feel that way.

[Dr. FLK]

Sorry Mick, Landesberg was pretty awful tonight. Hopefully he was just nervous on that stage. He'll be fine from here I hope.

Good win for the Heels, Lawson was terrific, 0 turnovers. Much needed.

Lawson was definitely a different player last night. He looked "interested" on both ends of the floor, and his 3 pt. shooting was on target also. When he's hitting on all cylinders, I don't know of a PG who can stop him. That was the best I've seen him play since he ran Mich St into the ground.

[YardBirds13]

Sorry Mick, Landesberg was pretty awful tonight. Hopefully he was just nervous on that stage. He'll be fine from here I hope.

Good win for the Heels, Lawson was terrific, 0 turnovers. Much needed.

Yeah, can't argue with you man. He just seemed lost. He is usually terrific at getting to the basket and getting to the free throw line, but he couldn't do either last night.

Not that I'm worried about him at all, just disappointed that on his biggest stage so far he played his worst game of his career.

What did you think of Scott? He is a pretty well balanced PF and a really solid offensive rebounder. I really like him. Considering we have him who is a Soph., Zeglinski (who should turn into a average ACC PG) and Landesberg who are Freshmen, that is a pretty decent core to build around. Jones and Farrakhan are pretty good shooters when they are open (Farrakhan went nuts jacking up shots tonight, usually he is a nice shooter off the bench). They are both only sophomores as well. Assane Sene, the big man, is also a Freshmen, and is a pretty solid defensive player already. Once he adds some bulk he could be a nice guy to have as well.

Throw in Tristan Spurlock, who is supposed to be a pretty good recruit next year, and it looks to me like Leitao has something in the makings down there. Obviously this year will be rough, but next year and especially the following year should be much, much better for this team.

[YardBirds13]

There are 4 teams in the conference that are good...MD, VT and Miami will battle for the other spot.

I said the over/under in terms of NCAA tourney teams was 5.5 when the year started and that I would take the under...I still feel that way.

Well, I agree with the 4 teams at the top of the conference. UNC, Duke, Wake, and Clemson are pretty obviously the Top 4 in the league.

I think the conference is pretty evenly split into 3 tiers:

Top Tier (NCAA Locks):

UNC, Duke, Wake, Clemson

Middle Tier: (NCAA Bubble Teams):

Miami, Florida State (who you didn't include), Maryland, VT, and BC (who you also didn't include, I'm putting them here because the win at UNC keeps them in the conversation for a while longer)

Bottom Tier (NO Shot at NCAA's):

UVa, Georgia Tech, NC State

[Sports Guy]

Well, I agree with the 4 teams at the top of the conference. UNC, Duke, Wake, and Clemson are pretty obviously the Top 4 in the league.

I think the conference is pretty evenly split into 3 tiers:

Top Tier (NCAA Locks):

UNC, Duke, Wake, Clemson

Middle Tier: (NCAA Bubble Teams):

Miami, Florida State (who you didn't include), Maryland, VT, and BC (who you also didn't include, I'm putting them here because the win at UNC keeps them in the conversation for a while longer)

Bottom Tier (NO Shot at NCAA's):

UVa, Georgia Tech, NC State
To me, GT is the most dangerous team amongst the lower tier guys.

They have a ton of talent..Their free throw shooting and TO's are killing them but they are extremely dangerous and I bet they are going to make some noise in the league in the second half and in the ACC tourney.

If Lawal comes back next year, which I doubt he will, they could be one of the best teams in the conference.

[YardBirds13]

So, after struggling in the first half, Duke runs away from State.

The two other games:

BC goes on the road and squeaks out an OT win against GT. Huge win for BC. Rice was incredible down the stretch for the Eagles, they really needed to get this one after struggling since beating Carolina. They get NC State at home this weekend, another game they really need to get before a huge showdown bubble-team type game at Maryland a week from tonight.

Speaking of the Terps, they hang on to a game they also really needed at home against UVA. Two tough road losses at Miami and FSU this weekend, it really would have been an early dagger for the Terps to lose at home to one of the bottom feeders in the league, but they gutted out a win. Obviously huuuuge game for them this weekend at Duke. If they can win that, they are on their way towards dancing. However, no biggie if they lose. Big game for them next Tuesday at home against BC. Having already lost to the other two bubble ACC teams theyve played (albeit on the road), they need to take care of business against BC at home next week.

Big game at the top of the league tomorrow night, Clemson at the Heels. Is this the year Clemson finally wins in Chapel Hill? I'm saying no.

Also, big bubble team game as FSU goes to Miami. I think the team that wins this game has the inside track to being the 5th tourney team (although I still think the ACC gets 7).

Huge chance for VT to throw their name in the ring as well, with a trip to Wake.

[beaner]

So, after struggling in the first half, Duke runs away from State.

The two other games:

BC goes on the road and squeaks out an OT win against GT. Huge win for BC. Rice was incredible down the stretch for the Eagles, they really needed to get this one after struggling since beating Carolina. They get NC State at home this weekend, another game they really need to get before a huge showdown bubble-team type game at Maryland a week from tonight.

Speaking of the Terps, they hang on to a game they also really needed at home against UVA. Two tough road losses at Miami and FSU this weekend, it really would have been an early dagger for the Terps to lose at home to one of the bottom feeders in the league, but they gutted out a win. Obviously huuuuge game for them this weekend at Duke. If they can win that, they are on their way towards dancing. However, no biggie if they lose. Big game for them next Tuesday at home against BC. Having already lost to the other two bubble ACC teams theyve played (albeit on the road), they need to take care of business against BC at home next week.

Big game at the top of the league tomorrow night, Clemson at the Heels. Is this the year Clemson finally wins in Chapel Hill? I'm saying no.

Also, big bubble team game as FSU goes to Miami. I think the team that wins this game has the inside track to being the 5th tourney team (although I still think the ACC gets 7).

Huge chance for VT to throw their name in the ring as well, with a trip to Wake.


No.

Wasn't able to watch anything tonight due to my unhealthy man crush on our new President, but back to normal tomorrow.

[YardBirds13]

No.

Wasn't able to watch anything tonight due to my unhealthy man crush on our new President, but back to normal tomorrow.

Unlike your other man-crush (Jeets) we share this man crush.

I however, took about 3 hours to watch the two ACC games that were on. Shows what kind of ACC fan you are.....ahhh

Disappointed UVa didn't pull out the win, but Mike Scott continues to impress.

Anything happen at the balls tonight that I missed because I wanted to watch Tyrese Rice single handedly win another game for BC and Sylven disappear for the second straight game?

[beaner]

Unlike your other man-crush (Jeets) we share this man crush.

I however, took about 3 hours to watch the two ACC games that were on. Shows what kind of ACC fan you are.....ahhh

Disappointed UVa didn't pull out the win, but Mike Scott continues to impress.

Anything happen at the balls tonight that I missed because I wanted to watch Tyrese Rice single handedly win another game for BC and Sylven disappear for the second straight game?

Glad we agree!

Yeah, I checked the scores on ESPN.com, but never changed the channel from CNN/MSNBC all day. I took off work and everything.

The balls were uneventful, but I was sucked in. I went to the Clinton MTV one back in '93, but I'm too old for that now.

[Ruzious]

Did anyone catch the Duke/NC State game last night? I was kinda bowled over by how good Henderson looked. Last season, I think I got him and Nelson mixed up - cuz I didn't remember Henderson being that good. I guess he was playing mostly forward - because Scheyer plays shooting guard, but am I right in saying that he's the best pro prospect Duke has had in years - better than Riddick and The Landlord?

[Sports Guy]

Did anyone catch the Duke/NC State game last night? I was kinda bowled over by how good Henderson looked. Last season, I think I got him and Nelson mixed up - cuz I didn't remember Henderson being that good. I guess he was playing mostly forward - because Scheyer plays shooting guard, but am I right in saying that he's the best pro prospect Duke has had in years - better than Riddick and The Landlord?

Henderson is looked at as a top 20ish pick.

He is becoming a star right now...Always shown the potential but now he is living up to it.

More importantly, he is starting to assert himself, which is what has always stopped him.

Right now, not many teams in the country have a better 2 some than Singler and Henderson.

[Ruzious]

Henderson is looked at as a top 20ish pick.

He is becoming a star right now...Always shown the potential but now he is living up to it.

More importantly, he is starting to assert himself, which is what has always stopped him.

Right now, not many teams in the country have a better 2 some than Singler and Henderson.
I never focused on him when watching Duke before, but I have to agree - the Henderson I saw last night has star quality. Is he a legit 6'5?

It'll be interesting to see in the MD game whether or not he's matched up against Vasquez. I'd think they would be. But Zoubec is probably going to have a career game.

[Sports Guy]

I never focused on him when watching Duke before, but I have to agree - the Henderson I saw last night has star quality. Is he a legit 6'5?

It'll be interesting to see in the MD game whether or not he's matched up against Vasquez. I'd think they would be. But Zoubec is probably going to have a career game.

He is 6'4-6'5...The thing about him is that he plays like he is 6'7 because of his leaping ability.

[VThokies]

Here's hoping for a good game out of VT tonight.

Somehow greenberg always gets a great effort out of the hokies against top ranked teams.

[beaner]

Here's hoping for a good game out of VT tonight.

Somehow greenberg always gets a great effort out of the hokies against top ranked teams.

Wow, a great effort is an understatement tonight. Virginia Tech is playing some great defense. 6 and a half to go as I type, but I think this game is over.

[YardBirds13]

Yeah, the Hokies look great tonight. If they can pull it out tonight they are right back in the bubble picture for the ACC, which tells me 9 teams will be in the hunt battling for 6-7 spots.

Honestly, the more teams in the mix for me, the better. So while it's tough to root for the Hokies, I'll be happy if they get a big win.

[beaner]

Wow, a great effort is an understatement tonight. Virginia Tech is playing some great defense. 6 and a half to go as I type, but I think this game is over.

The moral of this story, as always, is that I'm an idiot.

[Sports Guy]

Wow, what a win by VT.

Duke beats MD this week and gets #1 again!

[PaulBako]

Wow, what a win by VT.

Duke beats MD this week and gets #1 again!

Nooooo! I don't want Suke to be #1. :(

[YardBirds13]

Wow, what a win by VT.

Duke beats MD this week and gets #1 again!

Yup, huge win for the Hokies.

They now have the legit win you need to be in a bubble discussion.


9 teams can now have legit claims to be able to fight for a tourney birth this year.

[YardBirds13]

Nooooo! I don't want Suke to be #1. :(

Don't worry, they have to go to Wake a week from tonight, and the Deacs will have a full week to get ready.

[Sports Guy]

Don't worry, they have to go to Wake a week from tonight, and the Deacs will have a full week to get ready.

This bothers me btw.

One thing I have noticed about some of the schedules the last few years is how so many of the ACC schools get a full week off deep into the ACC season...This week off for Wake isn't deep into the ACC schedule but I think you get my point.

For example, UNC has a full week off late in February...Then, they play 2 games over like 5 days and then have off until the ACC tourney..Lots of rest.

Duke hasn't had this luxury...They get their time off in December...I am not sure if that is how K wants it or how it ends up being scheduled but I certainly think it has played a part in Duke getting tired at the end of the year as of late.

[YardBirds13]

This bothers me btw.

One thing I have noticed about some of the schedules the last few years is how so many of the ACC schools get a full week off deep into the ACC season...This week off for Wake isn't deep into the ACC schedule but I think you get my point.

For example, UNC has a full week off late in February...Then, they play 2 games over like 5 days and then have off until the ACC tourney..Lots of rest.

Duke hasn't had this luxury...They get their time off in December...I am not sure if that is how K wants it or how it ends up being scheduled but I certainly think it has played a part in Duke getting tired at the end of the year as of late.


Ehh, I dunno.

I agree with the point that it seems silly for teams to get the full week off late in the year, but if I'm not mistaken everyone plays either Saturday or Sunday before the ACC Tourney, so I don't know how big a deal that is.

I think Duke fading has had more to due with a lack of depth than the schedule, although I guess the schedule didnt help.

This yeah that shouldnt be a problem for them, given how deep they are.

[Sports Guy]

Ehh, I dunno.

I agree with the point that it seems silly for teams to get the full week off late in the year, but if I'm not mistaken everyone plays either Saturday or Sunday before the ACC Tourney, so I don't know how big a deal that is.

I think Duke fading has had more to due with a lack of depth than the schedule, although I guess the schedule didnt help.
This yeah that shouldnt be a problem for them, given how deep they are.

That's certainly a larger factor but the desire and need to have them on TV so much, especially late in the year when everyone is more focused on college BBall and not on the NFL, certainly hurts their scheduling I would guess.

[beaner]

Carolina is playing defense here in the second half, this is nice to see. Hopefully my man FLK is watching Ellington tonight.

[Sports Guy]

Carolina is playing defense here in the second half, this is nice to see. Hopefully my man FLK is watching Ellington tonight.

Shocking isn't it?

[beaner]

Shocking isn't it?

Keep talkin baby...3 weeks from tonight. Please stay #1, PLEASE!

[YardBirds13]

Carolina is playing defense here in the second half, this is nice to see. Hopefully my man FLK is watching Ellington tonight.


They look great tonight. Definitely look like the best team in the country to me tonight. Clemson isn't a pushover and they destroyed them in the second half.

Too bad for Carolina they don't get a return shot at Wake later in the year.

I like that the league expanded, but I really hate that you don't get home and home with everyone in the league.

[Sports Guy]

If Carolina decides to play defense and Ellington plays well in the tourney, I don't see how they lose.

But if they play lackadasical and inconsistent defense and Ellington plays like he only sort of cares, they will go down.

[Ruzious]

I never focused on him when watching Duke before, but I have to agree - the Henderson I saw last night has star quality. Is he a legit 6'5?

It'll be interesting to see in the MD game whether or not he's matched up against Vasquez. I'd think they would be. But Zoubec is probably going to have a career game.
Well, if there was any doubt that Henderson is miles ahead of Vasquez as an NBA prospect, there aren't any now.

And who knows what numbers Zoubec would have had if they kept him in the game.

[PaulBako]

Duke is ranked #1.

:bs:

http://sports.espn.go.com/ncb/rankings

[waroriole]

Duke is ranked #1.

:bs:

http://sports.espn.go.com/ncb/rankings

Hate them if you want, but they have probably been the most impressive team so far. BTW, what happened to Paul Bako, are you gonna change your name.

[PaulBako]

Hate them if you want, but they have probably been the most impressive team so far. BTW, what happened to Paul Bako, are you gonna change your name.

Eh, I think UConn is better than Duke in my opinion.

Sorry, but I didn't understand what you said about changing my user name? :confused: My name has always been PaulBako. (no spaces)

[YardBirds13]

The rankings are stupid and don't matter, but Duke deserves to be #1. They have been very impressive this year minus the one sleepwalk against Michigan.

I cannot wait for the game against Wake Forest on Wednesday, should be a great one.

Also, how about those Hokies? They got a huge road win at Miami yesterday and are currently in second place in the ACC, and that second place standing includes wins AT Wake and AT Miami.

Impressive. If they didn't get beat by a half court shot against Xavier and a buzzer beater against Wisconsin, they would be looking at a Top 4 seed right now.

[Sports Guy]

I am a huge ACC guy but people really need to stop acting like the ACC is better than the Big East this year.

[YardBirds13]

I am a huge ACC guy but people really need to stop acting like the ACC is better than the Big East this year.

No, the Big East is better, but it also has 16 teams. You're gonna have more good teams when you have more teams in general.

I mean, the bottom of the Big East is much worse than the ACC. UVa beat South Florida!


But, agreed, the Big East is the best conference in the country. THIS YEAR.

[beaner]

The Big East is ridiculous this year. No one is even close.

However, don't be shocked if 2 of the 4 #1 seeds in March are Wake/Duke/Carolina. Assuming two of them are in the ACC tourney final.

[waroriole]

Eh, I think UConn is better than Duke in my opinion.

Sorry, but I didn't understand what you said about changing my user name? :confused: My name has always been PaulBako. (no spaces)

I meant that you changed your picture to DCab from Paul Bako. Are you going to change your name to DCab too.

[Sports Guy]

The Big East is ridiculous this year. No one is even close.

However, don't be shocked if 2 of the 4 #1 seeds in March are Wake/Duke/Carolina. Assuming two of them are in the ACC tourney final.

All 4 #1 seeds from 2 conferences this year?

That would be a first.

It seems like the only team that may change that is Oklahoma.

[PaulBako]

I meant that you changed your picture to DCab from Paul Bako. Are you going to change your name to DCab too.

No, I just put a picture of Cabrera in a Nats cap for fun.

I did the same thing with Ramon Hernandez a few months ago.

[YardBirds13]

Not a ton of action in the ACC tonight.

Miami goes to NC State, and the way this league is shaping up, the middle tier bubble teams really can't afford to lose to the bottom 3 (GT, UVa, and NCST) whether its on the road or not, so Miami needs to take care of business today.

Big game at College Park for Maryland and BC. Maryland can get back on track and put the Duke debacle behind them by beating BC at home, but if they lose this one, it's a long climb to get to the tournament.

BC could pick up a huge road win against one of those common bubble type teams that will be big to have come March.

Gotta say, with UVa being a non-factor this year, I've found myself wanting the Terps to do well for my parents sake (both Terp fans), so I'm rooting for the Terps tonight.

[sportsfan14]

I'm sorry, I must have missed something: why is the Big East so clearly better?

The Big East has 16 teams. ACC: 12. So there's 28 total. I think time will show that...

a) The ACC has #1 of the 28 (UNC)
b) The ACC has #2 of the 28 (Duke)
c) The Big East has #28 of the 28 (DePaul)
d) The Big East has #27 of the 28 (Rutgers)
e) The Big East has #26 of the 28 (St. Johns)

The ACC is stronger at the top and bottom. The ACC has no bottom feeders that everyone can whoop up on. DePaul is 0-7, and has lost each game by more than a possession. Ditto that for Rutgers. ACC's worst, Georgia Tech, is 0-6, but has lost 3 OT games.

Ken Pom's 100% objective, stat-based assessment on conference rank:

ACC: #1 (http://kenpom.com/conf.php?c=ACC)
Big East: #3 (http://kenpom.com/conf.php?c=BE)

(it actually ranks the Pac-10 in between).

Sagarin also favors the ACC (http://www.usatoday.com/sports/sagarin/bkc0809.htm) in this debate, in central mean and arithmetic mean.

I really don't see why people think it is so clear cut towards the Big East. At the very least, they are about equal, both at the very top of any rankings.

One popular argument that I've seen elsewhere seems to be about the NCAA tourney. I really don't get this. Will the Big East get more teams in the tourney? Yea, it looks that way. So...what?

Which is more impressive: 7/12 (58.3%) or 9/16 (56.3%)?

Edit: Sorry for the tone, I'm just so sick of all the Big East hype. The top half is awesome...the bottom half is equally awesomely bad.

Anyway, in ACC news, NC State continues Miami's overtime troubles. Are they on the bubble now? Only marquee win was at Kentucky (who laid an egg last night). The ACC has 4 IN (Duke, UNC, WF, Clemson) and 4 OUT (MD, GTech, UVA, NCState). So it comes down to Miami (I still think they are in good shape) FSU, BC, and VaTech. FSU could take a huge step tonight w/ UNC coming to town, but I don't see it happening. UNC has clearly re-focused.

I like Duke tonight in a very close, well-played, fast-paced, exciting, awesome, intense, etc game.

[PaulBako]

Wake Forest vs. Duke is going to be a great game.

[beaner]

I hope Duke wins tonight, it will be a great game though.

[Sports Guy]

Duke better start shooting well or Wake is going to win this game easily....Duke down 7 right now...They need to get going here.

[Sports Guy]

Damn, i thought Duke was going to pull that game off...They did a terrible job of guarding that in bounds play...Henderson has to front Johnson there.

[Twenty1]

What a game. That's quality basketball.

[Pedro Cerrano]

One thing is for damn sure -- these ACC teams are going to be incredibly battle-tested coming into the NCAA Tourney. Nothing will phase them.

[beaner]

Great game, two great teams. Duke battled back hard and I thought they'd win it at the end. I was hoping Duke would win so Carolina could knock them off of the #1 spot in two weeks, but it is what it is.

[Sports Guy]

Great game, two great teams. Duke battled back hard and I thought they'd win it at the end. I was hoping Duke would win so Carolina could knock them off of the #1 spot in two weeks, but it is what it is.

Either Duke or UNC are liable to be #1 in 2 weeks anyway.

UCONN will lose to Louisville on Monday.

[beaner]

Either Duke or UNC are liable to be #1 in 2 weeks anyway.

UCONN will lose to Louisville on Monday.

Agreed, and whoever wins on 2-11 could be #1 again, although Wake may not lose either.

The Heels didn't play well the first 10 minutes tonight and were behind 32-24 until they rolled the rest of the half. We're up 11 now at halftime. Gotta put together 40 minutes one of these days.

[Sports Guy]

Agreed, and whoever wins on 2-11 could be #1 again, although Wake may not lose either.

The Heels didn't play well the first 10 minutes tonight and were behind 32-24 until they rolled the rest of the half. We're up 11 now at halftime. Gotta put together 40 minutes one of these days.

Wake has a tough little stretch coming up here...Some "annoying" games on the road that they could lose.

Duke's next test is next week at Clemson but they should beat them.

[Sports Guy]

What a shot by Lawson to win that game.

FSU takes a timeout and the best shot they get off is that 3 pointer by Douglas? That was terrible.

[beaner]

What a shot by Lawson to win that game.

FSU takes a timeout and the best shot they get off is that 3 pointer by Douglas? That was terrible.

See, when they need to play defense, they do. It's so frustrating. Green was huge tonight, especially in that last minute. Some night of Basketball, huh?

[Ruzious]

See, when they need to play defense, they do. It's so frustrating. Green was huge tonight, especially in that last minute. Some night of Basketball, huh?
Yeah, Green might be the most underrated all-around player in the country. Those were 2 great games last night. I didn't realize Douglas was that good - great matchup between him and Lawson.

[Sports Guy]

For Duke to go deep into the tourney, they are going to need to find another consistent 3rd scorer.

Scheyer has been shooting terribly as of late and he is the most likely guy but guys like Smith and Paulus also need to be able to step up and give them 12-15 points in a game when Scheyer is struggling.

Not many teams will play defense as good as Duke...Not many teams have a better 2 man game than Duke has with Singler and Henderson.

Duke is rebounding very good this year...They even outrebounded Wake last night and Wake is a bigger, longer team.

But what Duke isn't doing as well this year is shooting from beyond the 3 point line....They have missed a lot of wide open shots from out there this year..So, they can't rely on it as much as they have been able to in the past..If they make one more 3 last night, then they win the game but they of course, they didn't.

It will be interesting to see how things go for this team. They have a lot of aspects of their team that tell that this team can win it all...They also have some aspects that tell you if they get a tough second round matchup, that they will lose if they can't shoot well.

So, they need a 3rd scorer...And they need to improve their outside shooting.

In their 2 losses this year, they are 11-57 from 3...In each case, they played a team that likes to pack it in inside, making it harder to take the ball to the hoop and getting inside buckets....So, those teams said, shoot the ball....If Duke shoots well from the arc in those games, they win them both. But they didn't, so therefore they lost...That is going to be a problem come tourney time...Will they shoot good enough from 3 to keep teams honest?

[waroriole]

Damn, i thought Duke was going to pull that game off...They did a terrible job of guarding that in bounds play...Henderson has to front Johnson there.

It sure looked like it, but I was pretty sure they were coming back when Wake got up by 13. Two very good teams that could win it all. ACC is loaded this year.

[beaner]

Yeah, Green might be the most underrated all-around player in the country. Those were 2 great games last night. I didn't realize Douglas was that good - great matchup between him and Lawson.

Green would be a star on almost any other team in the country. He'll probably be the best pro of any of the current Heels besides maybe Ed Davis.

Douglas is good, seems like he's been around forever though. Transferred from Auburn a few years ago.

[Sports Guy]

Wake has a tough little stretch coming up here...Some "annoying" games on the road that they could lose.
Duke's next test is next week at Clemson but they should beat them.

Well, they lost the first one of these.

That GT team is going to be dangerous this last month and into the ACC tourney...I would not want to play them as they gain more experience.

Shame(for GT) that Lawal will probably leave this year because they may be next year's Wake if he stays.

[Sports Guy]

Big game for Duke tonight.

They need to stay up on Wake and/or UNC right in the battle of, which 2 teams play in Greensboro in the first 2 rounds of the NCAA tourney.

I think UNC is a lock...So, it comes down to Wake and Duke...Wake has already won at Clemson, so Duke needs to keep up.

[beaner]

Big game for Duke tonight.

They need to stay up on Wake and/or UNC right in the battle of, which 2 teams play in Greensboro in the first 2 rounds of the NCAA tourney.

I think UNC is a lock...So, it comes down to Wake and Duke...Wake has already won at Clemson, so Duke needs to keep up.

Duke should win tonight, although Clemson's bigs could create problems. Duke is a better team, and might be the best team in the ACC right now with Carolina's problems.

I'm a little stressed with the Heels right now, Maryland got 16 offensive rebounds last night, which is too many for a team with a weaker inside presence. Now with Ginyard officially out and Graves suspension, the depth takes a hit.

Oh, and UCONN is really really good, my "perfect" team is not looking so perfect right now.

[Sports Guy]

Duke should win tonight, although Clemson's bigs could create problems. Duke is a better team, and might be the best team in the ACC right now with Carolina's problems.

I'm a little stressed with the Heels right now, Maryland got 16 offensive rebounds last night, which is too many for a team with a weaker inside presence. Now with Ginyard officially out and Graves suspension, the depth takes a hit.

Oh, and UCONN is really really good, my "perfect" team is not looking so perfect right now.

So, Ginyard back next year?

Duke is playing great but they need more consistency out of a third scorer every night.

[Pedro Cerrano]

Right now I'm predicting a dook/UNC National Title game. What a spectacle that would be!

[Sports Guy]

Right now I'm predicting a dook/UNC National Title game. What a spectacle that would be!

As much as I would like to believe Duke can go to and win the National Title, I think they are just short right now.

Now, that doesn't mean that come tourney time they will be and I do expect them to be better but they need better play making from Smith and need more consistency from Paulus and Scheyer from behind the 3 point line.

No team in the tourney will play better defense...They are a very solid FT shhoting team this year..They have solid depth although I would like to see Plumlee get more and more minutes and be ready to contribute in March.

They are going to be battle tested...not just from the ACC but they have had a tough OOC schedule as well.

Duke has to get back to the sweet 16...That has been an issue for them the last few years, so they have to get to that point first.

[beaner]

So, Ginyard back next year?

Duke is playing great but they need more consistency out of a third scorer every night.

Ginyard is trying to gain a fifth year. We'll see.

Can't wait until Duke/UNC next week of course, should answer many questions about both.

[beaner]

Right now I'm predicting a dook/UNC National Title game. What a spectacle that would be!

So i could read more whining about ESPN..How they "love" Duke and Carolina. Or do they "love" the Steelers now? Wait, I thought it was the Yankees and Red Sox. I just can't keep up. Brian, I swear i was thisclose to doing another "I'm sick of the whole ESPN hate thing" when people started talking about how much they love the Steelers, but at this point I'm as stupid as those comments if I keep fighting it. I digress...

Seriously though, it would be amazing, although I'd almost be afraid that the rivalry would peak right there. I'd almost rather just wonder what it would be like than to have it happen. I couldn't imagine losing the game. I'd never be able to talk trash to SG again.

[YardBirds13]

Wake-Miami going on right now, BC is throttling UVa, plus Duke-Clemson later

Miami could really throw themselves back into the tournament by beating Wake. BC can't afford to lose tonight to UVa, and it looks like they will take care of business on the road. I expect Duke to handle Clemson but we'll see.

[beaner]

Wake-Miami going on right now, BC is throttling UVa, plus Duke-Clemson later

Miami could really throw themselves back into the tournament by beating Wake. BC can't afford to lose tonight to UVa, and it looks like they will take care of business on the road. I expect Duke to handle Clemson but we'll see.

Dude, is Letiao in trouble there? They're terrible, and when you think about the new arena and all, i wonder how short the leash is in Charlottesville.

[Sports Guy]

Well, they lost the first one of these.
That GT team is going to be dangerous this last month and into the ACC tourney...I would not want to play them as they gain more experience.

Shame(for GT) that Lawal will probably leave this year because they may be next year's Wake if he stays.

And now they have lost the second one...and they(wake) got crushed doing it.

Duke looking awful right now...Thank goodness its early.

[YardBirds13]

Dude, is Letiao in trouble there? They're terrible, and when you think about the new arena and all, i wonder how short the leash is in Charlottesville.

Ehh, there are obviously some rumblings, as there are any time you have back to back rough seasons, but I don't think there is any chance he gets canned this year. Last year being bad was a bit of a surprise with SS still being there, but it basically just turned into the Singletary Goodbye Season, and people were so into loving Sean they didn't really get that upset that the team had underachieved (no fault of Mr. Singletary's, of course.)

This year was expected to be bad. They lost arguably the best player in the last 15 years at UVa (Maybe Roger Mason was better), plus a solid player in Adrian Joseph. Coming into this year I really was excited to see Landesberg, that's about it. I knew we weren't getting into the tournament, and I think alot of other fans knew that as well.

That said, if this team isn't at least fighting for a tournament berth next year, he could be in trouble. They only lose Diane, who has basically stopped playing, I mean he is shooting like 7% from 3 this year.

I mean, look at what he has to work with for next season.

He just brought in the most highly touted Freshman in as long as I can remember, and he is a shoe-in to be First-Team All-Freshman in the ACC, and would have a good chance at being the ROY in the ACC if the team wasn't so terrible. He has a guy who is a sophomore who, when they actually get him the ball, is a pretty effective post scorer, and is one of the best offensive rebounders in the conference. He has a young point guard, who, at times, has shown he may have what it takes to be an ACC-caliber point guard. He has a young big man who is incredibly raw on the offensive end, but is already a pretty good defender down low. He has two sophomore guards who, while very streaky and tend to have poor shot selection, can rain jumpers when left open.

I believe they have another pretty good player coming in next year (not as hyped as Landesberg, but solid, Spurlock I think?)

And, I mean, everyone is back next year. If he can't get something going next year, he could be in some serious trouble, and he should be. This is Year #4 for him, next year is Year 5. He's honestly really only had one good year, and that was when he had Singletary and Reynolds together in Year #2.

I like Leitao alot, and I think the team will be much improved next year and make a run at the tournament. If they aren't, he might get the axe. And I think it would be tough to argue with.

[YardBirds13]

And now they have lost the second one...and they(wake) got crushed doing it.

Duke looking awful right now...Thank goodness its early.

Clemson is handling them with ease. I'm surprised.

Obviously a long way to go with still 15+ to go, and I'm sure Duke has a nice run in them, but Clemson looks good tonight.

[Sports Guy]

Clemson is handling them with ease. I'm surprised.

Obviously a long way to go with still 15+ to go, and I'm sure Duke has a nice run in them, but Clemson looks good tonight.

Second straight week where Duke has played a top 10 on the road where that team had a week off.

Duke looks terrible tonight....They are rattled, are shooting poorly and have turned it over at will.

They just aren't mentally focused tonight...Seems like it is going to be one of those nights but, as you said, there is a lot of time left.

But it looks like they are going to get run out of the gym.

Worst part of this game is Scheyer just looks awful...They will not be able to go deep into the tourney with Scheyer doing nothing.

[Pushmonkey]

Maybe this year the ACC will get more then 3-4 teams in the big dance.

[Sports Guy]

Wow, what a beatdown by Clemson...Gotta hand it to them...They took it to Duke tonight and Duke played like a bunch of wussies.

Duke has Miami and UNC at home over the next week...They better regroup quickly or they will find themselves with 4 ACC losses really quickly.

Although, I don't expect that to happen..This is just one of those games where it gets away from you and the immaturity of college kids take over.

[O's are Legends]

Right now I'm predicting a dook/UNC National Title game. What a spectacle that would be!

Unless you’re a fan of either one of those teams, that would be an awful game in my opinion. It’s too predictable, like hoping for the Yanks and Sox to make it to the ALCS every year. That’s what makes college basketball so great, you can never predict anything. With the modern scholarship rules, strong mid-majors will continue to upset the big conference teams catching the casual fans off guard year in and year out.

Duke in the championship game? They have no inside game whatsoever, you may able to win a game here or there shooting lights out, but it never lasts; ala West Virginia. Teams like Marquette, Pitt other Big East teams would give Duke a significant pounding in the post and would match the guard play. I could see UNC in the championship game but wouldn’t bet on it as the opponents get real tough when you hit the Elite 8 if not the Sweet 16. All the so called experts thought they were going to run the table then they lost back to back to BC and a good Wake team (I know Wake didn’t show up tonight against Miami) but proves you never know in college basketball. Duke may be the #3 in the country right now, but they’re not going to the NCAA championship. I say elite 8 at best.

Duke last two years in the NCAA tourney:

2006-2007 1st round Virginia Commonwealth L 79-77 (Eric Maynor has done a lot of damage to a lot of teams, will be a first round pick, is better than Stephon Curry, and torched the Terps last year as well) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0VuArsI8bj8&feature=related
2007 – 2008 1st round Belmont W 71-70 (no disrespect to Belmont, but Duke beat Belmont by 1 one point)
2007 – 2008 2nd round vs. West Virginia L 73-67

Pedro and other people that may have been offended, didn't mean to come off as a Duke and ACC basher but wanted to drop my 2 cents on this topic. Although, the Terps could lose every game for the next 10 years and I could care less.

[Sports Guy]

Unless you’re a fan of either one of those teams, that would be an awful game in my opinion. It’s too predictable, like hoping for the Yanks and Sox to make it to the ALCS every year. That’s what makes college basketball so great, you can never predict anything. With the modern scholarship rules, strong mid-majors will continue to upset the big conference teams catching the casual fans off guard year in and year out.

Duke in the championship game? They have no inside game whatsoever, you may able to win a game here or there shooting lights out, but it never lasts; ala West Virginia. Teams like Marquette, Pitt other Big East teams would give Duke a significant pounding in the post and would match the guard play. I could see UNC in the championship game but wouldn’t bet on it as the opponents get real tough when you hit the Elite 8 if not the Sweet 16. All the so called experts thought they were going to run the table then they lost back to back to BC and a good Wake team (I know Wake didn’t show up tonight against Miami) but proves you never know in college basketball. Duke may be the #3 in the country right now, but they’re not going to the NCAA championship. I say elite 8 at best.

Duke last two years in the NCAA tourney:

2006-2007 1st round Virginia Commonwealth L 79-77 (Eric Maynor has done a lot of damage to a lot of teams, will be a first round pick, is better than Stephon Curry, and torched the Terps last year as well) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0VuArsI8bj8&feature=related
2007 – 2008 1st round Belmont W 71-70 (no disrespect to Belmont, but Duke beat Belmont by 1 one point)
2007 – 2008 2nd round vs. West Virginia L 73-67

Pedro and other people that may have been offended, didn't mean to come off as a Duke and ACC basher but wanted to drop my 2 cents on this topic. Although, the Terps could lose every game for the next 10 years and I could care less.
There is some serious flawed analysis here.

First of all, who cares that UNC lost those games? That is going to happen over the course of a season, especially when you are in a great conference.

Secondly, Duke had no inside game last year...They have more of an inside game this year and part of that is due to much improved rebounding. Now, it is still lacking but they are more balanced this year...Little bit better inside and a little worse on the outside. Yes, teams like Pitt and UCONN would give Duke problems but they give everyone problems, so that isn't any kind of shocking revelation.

Also, I think the country would love to see UNC/Duke...It is a great rivalry and all college fans recognize and admire that.

I do agree that I don't see Duke as a final 4/final game type team right now but they have a lot of room for improvement and come tourney time, they may be that legit.

[LAOSfan]

First, I must admit I am a Clemson alum so I am on cloud 9 right now.

Regarding Duke, after watching this game, I again think they are limited as to how far they will go. I will admit that their defense is better this year and that is what has carried them thus far.

However, they have no inside game again this year. That will always hurt you when you are not making your 3's. But perhaps more importantly, I don't think they have a true point guard other than Paulus and I do not think that he is very good.

Our press really gave them problems tonight because they did not have a true point guard that could penetrate the seams and either dribble through it or pass to the open guy. When we played UNC and Wake, Lawson and Teague just picked it apart and it resulted in a lot of easy buckets. So many, in fact, that I was calling for Purnell to call it off. Not so with Duke. I didn't realize it until tonight but Smith is actually more of a 2-guard than a true point.

If I was an opposing coach, I would press the heck out of them. They looked very uncomfortable and just could not get the easy looks that Wake and UNC got. We'll see if UNC tries to do it Wednesday night and we'll see how Duke will respond if they do.

[O's are Legends]

There is some serious flawed analysis here.

First of all, who cares that UNC lost those games? That is going to happen over the course of a season, especially when you are in a great conference.

Secondly, Duke had no inside game last year...They have more of an inside game this year and part of that is due to much improved rebounding. Now, it is still lacking but they are more balanced this year...Little bit better inside and a little worse on the outside. Yes, teams like Pitt and UCONN would give Duke problems but they give everyone problems, so that isn't any kind of shocking revelation.

Also, I think the country would love to see UNC/Duke...It is a great rivalry and all college fans recognize and admire that.

I do agree that I don't see Duke as a final 4/final game type team right now but they have a lot of room for improvement and come tourney time, they may be that legit.

Couldn’t care less if UNC loses those games, point I was trying to make is if UNC can lose 2 games early in the season, come tourney time they could lose (as any other good team can) as they’re most likely going to be facing teams of Wake Forest's caliber from the Sweet 16 on. I didn’t discredit UNC’s abilities; I mentioned how I felt UNC could end up in the championship game as they’re obviously good enough to win the entire tourney. Actually, most of the content in my post was directed at how Duke wouldn’t make the championship.

Obviously it’s not a shocking revelation about PITT and the top half of the Big East, but those are the type of teams Duke would eventually have to face, Duke is very good: evident from their record and beating good out of conference foes such as Purdue, GTown, Xavier, Davidson, even Rhode Island is solid. Not taking anything away from Duke, just sharing my opinion on why they’re not going to the championship game.

If someone is a Duke or UNC fan then I could clearly see why they would want to see this matchup and there isn’t anything wrong with that. It’s the 2 biggest teams in one of the biggest conferences along with the most recognizable rivalry in college basketball. Personally I wouldn’t want to see a Duke/UNC championship because I like the underdog too much. That’s what makes college basketball great; rooting for your team and then the rise of the cinderellas, watching San Diego beat UCONN in the first round, the Western Kentucky’s, the unpredictable. NCAA tourney runs by George Mason and Davidson (minus them beating Gtown) are what’s great about college ball; here’s hoping to another surprise for the 09.

Sports Guy, not trying to be a smart @@S but I'm real curious as what makes you think most people would want to see a Duke/UNC matchup in the NCAA championship. Who are these people, casual basketball fans and ESPN? There are 327 D1 basketball teams and depending on the size of the school, many of these teams have a decent following and want to see their team succeed and win the national championship. Duke and UNC fans may want to see that matchup, but if I ask a Wake Forest or NC State fan if they would want to see that matchup, we all know what that answer will be. Unless UNC and Duke somehow have more fans than all the seriously good major/mid major teams combined, the only way I could see the majority of people wanting to see this championship matchup are if they’re a UNC, Duke or a casual college basketball fan. I don’t see where you’re coming from and would value your opinion.

[glenn__davis]

Duke yuks it up more than any other team that I've seen when they're winning big. Nice to see the shoe on the other foot for once. It's a testament to how good they've been, though, that for them to get blown out is such a rarity.

Crazy night in the ACC.

[waroriole]

Wow, what a beatdown by Clemson...Gotta hand it to them...They took it to Duke tonight and Duke played like a bunch of wussies.

Duke has Miami and UNC at home over the next week...They better regroup quickly or they will find themselves with 4 ACC losses really quickly.

Although, I don't expect that to happen..This is just one of those games where it gets away from you and the immaturity of college kids take over.

You as a Duke fan and me as a Wake fan need to go hide our heads somewhere and pretend last night didn't happen. Of course, it's not as bad for Duke because they played a top 10 team and didn't just lose to Georgia Tech. Hopefully, Wake's embarassing performance will be just the wake up call that we apparently so desparately need.

[beaner]

You as a Duke fan and me as a Wake fan need to go hide our heads somewhere and pretend last night didn't happen. Of course, it's not as bad for Duke because they played a top 10 team and didn't just lose to Georgia Tech. Hopefully, Wake's embarassing performance will be just the wake up call that we apparently so desparately need.

Wake is really young, and I'm beginning to think Gaudio is in a little over his head. Miami destroyed them in the second half and they had no answer. I'm interested to see how they bounce back.

[waroriole]

Wake is really young, and I'm beginning to think Gaudio is in a little over his head. Miami destroyed them in the second half and they had no answer. I'm interested to see how they bounce back.

It's tough to say about Gaudio. Since he took over last year they have played very inconsistently, but the defense has been much improved under him. I think the main problem they're having right now is that they're so inexperienced and they're having to adjust to taking everyone's best shot, which in my opinion is what is so impressive about Duke and Coach K.

[Sports Guy]

As I said, Wake has some annoying road games..They played 2 of them and lost...I think Wake is a very good team but their youth will cost them.

IF they can keep the team together next year, they will be a legit final 4 team IMO...but that's not likely.

[Dr. FLK]

Coming into this season, it looked like it could be UNC, Duke, Wake, and Clemson smacking everyone around all season. But, this has ended up being one exciting ACC season. Just when you start thinking it might be a "top heavy" season coupled with a bunch of "also rans", teams like Miami, GaTech, VaTech make things a lot more interesting.

[waroriole]

As I said, Wake has some annoying road games..They played 2 of them and lost...I think Wake is a very good team but their youth will cost them.

IF they can keep the team together next year, they will be a legit final 4 team IMO...but that's not likely.

They definitely have a Final 4 run in them, right now it's just about trying to rekindle the spark they had in some very impressive games (UNC, Duke and Clemson)

We've got to get up for the games that are "ho-hum", which is what makes Duke so impressive every year because everyone is taking their best shot at them.

[Twenty1]

Dook is really in a rut. Bad loss to Clemson, playing terrible and down big to Miami at the half right now, and UNC right around the corner. This could be a devistating stretch for the Dookies, and I get no greater satisfaction then seeing them struggle!

ETA: As soon as I open my mouth Dook regains the lead halfway through the 2nd half. Open mouth, insert foot.

[Sports Guy]

I knew today was going to be a tough game for Duke...Glad to see that they were able to come back and get the win.

I see Smith only played 7 minutes...I didn't get to see the game but I guess Paulus started? He played 40 minutes.

I have liked the move of going to Smith as the starter because of his defense but as the season has gone on(and really highlighted by the Clemson game), it is apparent that the best POINT GUARD on the team is Paulus...He is a better decision maker and shooter at this point, even though Smith is a far superior defender.

Duke has won a lot of games with Smith as the starter but they may be able to go further in the tourney with Paulus as the starter and Smith getting a lot of minutes.

[baseballnelie]

Ahh I cannot believe Clemson just lost their game to Florida State. They started the 2nd half with a 10-0 run and Florida State had an 18-2 run to end the game. Unbelievable.

[Sports Guy]

Ahh I cannot believe Clemson just lost their game to Florida State. They started the 2nd half with a 10-0 run and Florida State had an 18-2 run to end the game. Unbelievable.

Wow..Didn't even know this until I read your post...Good! :D

[Pushmonkey]

Any basketball fan has to love the ACC this year.. never know what will happen.. this ACC tourney will be amazing.

[beaner]

Wow..Didn't even know this until I read your post...Good! :D

The prelims are over...See you Wednesday.

[AgentOrange]

Jack McClinton is a beast. That is all

[PaulBako]

The prelims are over...See you Wednesday.

I hate both teams, so who should I root for?

[Sports Guy]

Jack McClinton is a beast. That is all

The 3 he hit to send the game into OT was ridiculous.

I was watching gamecast and I was like, how did they let him make that?

Then I saw that there were like 3 guys in his face and he shot it from 25 feet.

[AgentOrange]

The 3 he hit to send the game into OT was ridiculous.

I was watching gamecast and I was like, how did they let him make that?

Then I saw that there were like 3 guys in his face and he shot it from 25 feet.

It was unreal. I couldn't believe it when I saw it. Felt like a tournament game. Very well played and intense.

Gotta give props to my Calvert Hall guys though. Very proud of him right now.

[Twenty1]

Any basketball fan has to love the ACC this year.. never know what will happen.. this ACC tourney will be amazing.
The league is so unpredictable. If this is a precursor to the tournament, get ready for an epic weekend of basketball in ATL.

[PeteCanes]

Jack McClinton is a beast. That is all

I can't get mad at him for taking any shot, anywhere on the court, no matter how ridiculous.

[YardBirds13]

So I thought I'd do a little round-up post for a big week of ACC Hoops, and this weekend (probably Sunday) do a "Mid-Season" look at the conference as a whole (although as a UVa fan, I'd love to start looking to next year).

Anyways, Lunardi came out with his latest bracket and 8 ACC teams are dancing as of now, with none even in the last 4 in. Miami, BC, and Virginia Tech are the closest to slipping out, but I'd say there is a pretty decent shot the ACC ends up with 8 teams. Can Maryland win some big games and become a 9th? Probably not, but they COULD win some of those big games and bump somebody out of the tournament.

Here is a look at the upcoming week in ACC Hoops:

Tuesday:

Virginia at Florida State- The Noles are back in the Top 25, and vs. UVA is the one game on the schedule that MUST be a win for any bubble team.

Clemson at BC- Huuuuuge games for BC, as they try to solidify their NCAA candidacy. Clemson winning on the road here keeps them in the running for a #2 seed.

Wednesday:

Wake at NC State- Another potential slip-up against an inferior team on the road. NC State has played better of late (really, besides UVA who hasn't?) but Wake needs to beat the bad teams to keep hopes of an ACC Title, which they have a great chance of thanks to already having beat Duke AND Carolina.

Georgia Tech at Virginia Tech- The Jackets have played better lately, but this is one the Hokies need to have. Beating the bottom teams at home is a must if you want to make the tournament.

Carolina at Duke-Awesome. For first place in the conference? Double awesome. For a number one seed? Triple awesome. I say it's a Classic Duke-Carolina match-up, with my man Dickie V going bananas in Cameron, and Mike Patrick doing his best to ruin the broadcast (I'll assume it's him and not Dan Shulman, I hope I'm wrong) but the Heels pulling off a victory.

Then, some more important games this weekend:

Saturday:

NC State at Georgia Tech- A rare matchup with no NCAA team.

Virginia Tech at Maryland- Both teams need it. Terps especially.

Florida State at Wake- If the Noles win in Winston-Salem, they can breathe easy on Selection Sunday.

Sunday:

Clemson at Virginia- I'm ready for baseball season.

Duke at BC/Carolina at Miami- Interesting that after the huge game Wednesday night, both teams make tough road trips to good teams. UNC routed Miami earlier this year in Chapel Hill, but the Canes have played well of late. FSU, BC, and Miami are all in similar situations over the weekend. If they can pick up a big win at home against one of the three top teams in the ACC, they can start booking their dance trips.

[beaner]

So I thought I'd do a little round-up post for a big week of ACC Hoops, and this weekend (probably Sunday) do a "Mid-Season" look at the conference as a whole (although as a UVa fan, I'd love to start looking to next year).

Anyways, Lunardi came out with his latest bracket and 8 ACC teams are dancing as of now, with none even in the last 4 in. Miami, BC, and Virginia Tech are the closest to slipping out, but I'd say there is a pretty decent shot the ACC ends up with 8 teams. Can Maryland win some big games and become a 9th? Probably not, but they COULD win some of those big games and bump somebody out of the tournament.

Here is a look at the upcoming week in ACC Hoops:

Tuesday:

Virginia at Florida State- The Noles are back in the Top 25, and vs. UVA is the one game on the schedule that MUST be a win for any bubble team.

Clemson at BC- Huuuuuge games for BC, as they try to solidify their NCAA candidacy. Clemson winning on the road here keeps them in the running for a #2 seed.

Wednesday:

Wake at NC State- Another potential slip-up against an inferior team on the road. NC State has played better of late (really, besides UVA who hasn't?) but Wake needs to beat the bad teams to keep hopes of an ACC Title, which they have a great chance of thanks to already having beat Duke AND Carolina.

Georgia Tech at Virginia Tech- The Jackets have played better lately, but this is one the Hokies need to have. Beating the bottom teams at home is a must if you want to make the tournament.

Carolina at Duke-Awesome. For first place in the conference? Double awesome. For a number one seed? Triple awesome. I say it's a Classic Duke-Carolina match-up, with my man Dickie V going bananas in Cameron, and Mike Patrick doing his best to ruin the broadcast (I'll assume it's him and not Dan Shulman, I hope I'm wrong) but the Heels pulling off a victory.

Then, some more important games this weekend:

Saturday:

NC State at Georgia Tech- A rare matchup with no NCAA team.

Virginia Tech at Maryland- Both teams need it. Terps especially.

Florida State at Wake- If the Noles win in Winston-Salem, they can breathe easy on Selection Sunday.

Sunday:

Clemson at Virginia- I'm ready for baseball season.

Duke at BC/Carolina at Miami- Interesting that after the huge game Wednesday night, both teams make tough road trips to good teams. UNC routed Miami earlier this year in Chapel Hill, but the Canes have played well of late. FSU, BC, and Miami are all in similar situations over the weekend. If they can pick up a big win at home against one of the three top teams in the ACC, they can start booking their dance trips.

Quadruple awesome.

Hansbrough is 3-0 in Cameron.

[YardBirds13]

Quadruple awesome.

Hansbrough is 3-0 in Cameron.

Quintuple Awesome:

Hansbrough has lost more times in Charlottesville than in Durham.

[beaner]

Quintuple Awesome:

Hansbrough has lost more times in Charlottesville than in Durham.

Sixtuple Awesome

The Heels are ranked higher than Duke again. And our Women beat theirs tonight.

[YardBirds13]

Sixtuple Awesome

The Heels are ranked higher than Duke again. And our Women beat theirs tonight.

I dunno what comes next in awesomeness, but my alma mater and my mid-major boys (James Madison) FINALLY beat George Mason this past weekend, and appear to FINALLY have the program going in the right direction under new coach Matt Brady (AND we did it without our leading scorer, who has missed the last 3 games with a heart condition).

We play at VCU Wednesday night in a huge game in the CAA. And yes, it is very sad that at this point in the college hoops season I'm far more interested in my CAA team than my ACC team.

[beaner]

I dunno what comes next in awesomeness, but my alma mater and my mid-major boys (James Madison) FINALLY beat George Mason this past weekend, and appear to FINALLY have the program going in the right direction under new coach Matt Brady (AND we did it without our leading scorer, who has missed the last 3 games with a heart condition).

We play at VCU Wednesday night in a huge game in the CAA. And yes, it is very sad that at this point in the college hoops season I'm far more interested in my CAA team than my ACC team.

I follow the CAA too, and I'm with you on JMU, it's cool to see them have a little success after the Dillard/Keener eras. I'm pulling for them, although I've been impressed with Northeastern and VCU this year as well.

[YardBirds13]

I follow the CAA too, and I'm with you on JMU, it's cool to see them have a little success after the Dillard/Keener eras. I'm pulling for them, although I've been impressed with Northeastern and VCU this year as well.

Yeah, VCU and Northeastern are pretty clearly the two top teams in the league this year.

We had NU on the ropes in Harrisonburg back in December and let them get away. Matt Janning is a really good player for them.

Maynor is the best player in the league by far though. We still play them twice, including the trip to Richmond this week.

Honestly, it's just nice to be relevant again. I'm hoping to finish in the top 4 and get a bye in the CAA Tournament, then just hope we win a quarterfinal game to get in the Semis. That would really be a success this year. Anything more than that is gravy for Brady's first year.

[beaner]

Yeah, VCU and Northeastern are pretty clearly the two top teams in the league this year.

We had NU on the ropes in Harrisonburg back in December and let them get away. Matt Janning is a really good player for them.

Maynor is the best player in the league by far though. We still play them twice, including the trip to Richmond this week.

Honestly, it's just nice to be relevant again. I'm hoping to finish in the top 4 and get a bye in the CAA Tournament, then just hope we win a quarterfinal game to get in the Semis. That would really be a success this year. Anything more than that is gravy for Brady's first year.

That's always one of my favorite tourneys to be honest. My buddy works for Towson and I've been to Richmond for it before. You guys have a shot to make some noise, and I'll be pulling for you.

[Sports Guy]

http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/fp/flashPollResultsState?sportIndex=frontpage&pollId=67453

Not sure if this will show up or not but this is an ESPN poll...22% think the Duke/UNC rivalry is the best in sports....And its not just the south that thinks so.

[Pedro Cerrano]

http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/fp/flashPollResultsState?sportIndex=frontpage&pollId=67453

Not sure if this will show up or not but this is an ESPN poll...22% think the Duke/UNC rivalry is the best in sports....And its not just the south that thinks so.

Poll questions like this are so dumb. Any debate that is developed from it is just silly? How in the world is anyone supposed to figure out what the "best" rivalry in sports is? How do you measure that? Why can't ESPN just let people enjoy a game and a great rivalry. It's right up there, to be sure, but I just think it's silly when ESPN asks stuff like this and "Who's Now?" from a few years ago.

Not a rant against you SG, but polls like that just make me crazy. ESPN really has run out of stuff to talk about.

Also, the 22% is probably inflated because the game is tonight similar to if they asked the question the night before the Michigan/Ohio State game a few years ago when those teams were 1 and 2 in the country.

[Sports Guy]

Poll questions like this are so dumb. Any debate that is developed from it is just silly? How in the world is anyone supposed to figure out what the "best" rivalry in sports is? How do you measure that? Why can't ESPN just let people enjoy a game and a great rivalry. It's right up there, to be sure, but I just think it's silly when ESPN asks stuff like this and "Who's Now?" from a few years ago.

Not a rant against you SG, but polls like that just make me crazy. ESPN really has run out of stuff to talk about.

Also, the 22% is probably inflated because the game is tonight similar to if they asked the question the night before the Michigan/Ohio State game a few years ago when those teams were 1 and 2 in the country.

The only point I was trying to make was that more people care about this rivalry than those who live in NC and who are duke/unc fans...A poster earlier said that no one else would care about that game if it were the NC game this year and I think that is wrong.

[Pedro Cerrano]

The only point I was trying to make was that more people care about these polls than those who live in NC and who are duke/unc fans...A poster earlier said that no one else would care about that game if it were the NC game this year and I think that is wrong.

Well yea, he's certainly wrong about that. And I'm sure most of the country is excited for this game. I'll certainly be watching.

[beaner]

Well yea, he's certainly wrong about that. And I'm sure most of the country is excited for this game. I'll certainly be watching.

Who will you be rooting for PC?

[Pedro Cerrano]

Who will you be rooting for PC?

North Carolina.

[beaner]

North Carolina.

I commend you on your choice.

[O's are Legends]

Well yea, he's certainly wrong about that. And I'm sure most of the country is excited for this game. I'll certainly be watching.


The only point I was trying to make was that more people care about this rivalry than those who live in NC and who are duke/unc fans...A poster earlier said that no one else would care about that game if it were the NC game this year and I think that is wrong.

Yes, I'm definitely wrong especially since I never said that. I guess I didn’t make my point clear enough on page 6 of this thread. Who the hell wouldn't be excited to watch that game? I was simply pointing out that not everybody is pulling for a Duke/UNC final. Obviously, it beats out watching out LSU vs. Florida for the final (no offense LSU, Florida fans)

If it comes down to a UNC/Duke final great, but if my favorite team makes the tourney damn sure if they play UNC again, I’m not rooting against them to lose against UNC and sure enough if Clemson has to play Duke in the tourney, those Clemson fans aren’t pulling for Duke to beat their team so they can see this great matchup.

People wanting to see their team succeed and hoping a Duke/UNC matchup doesn’t happen is not the same as no one else caring about this game, anybody that claims to be a college basketball fan will be watching tonight as it’s Duke/Carolina, with that being said I just hope this isn’t a preview of the final game of the year as I can’t stand Duke, like the NCAA trny upsets, and wouldn’t mind the uncertainty that comes along with college basketball, but if it did end up Duke/UNC, at first I wouldn’t necessarily be pleased because the mid-majors and other high powered teams couldn’t knock them out of the trny, but when the clock hits game time, I know the whole country will be in for a good one
--
To clarify, when I said it would be an awful matchup for a championship game between UNC and Duke, I didn’t mean necessarily it would be an awful game, more so how I think it would be awful if ended up as that, I rather see Wake from the ACC this year if possible, anyway if anybody wants to back track what I had to say, once again it’s on page 6 so everyone can drill me more and hit me with a hammer, and as if anybody cares about my opinion, go Tar Heels tonight

[Pedro Cerrano]

Obviously people would rather have their own team in the Finals than UNC or dook.

[Pushmonkey]

What no Smack talk during the first half? Not saying this game is over by a long shot.

[Pushmonkey]

Ty lawson is um.. quick.

[Pushmonkey]

He's taking over the game right now. Anybody that looks at the final score and didn't see the game will think it was a beat down by UNC but that wasn't the case for the first 31 minutes.

It was a game of runs..NC had the better last run.. just another great game between these two..

[BaltimoreTerp]

Man...Carolina may just break 100 at Cameron...a 56-point second-half. Wow.

[Pushmonkey]

NC offense is something else.

[Sports Guy]

At no point in the second half did I think Duke had a chance to win the game.

Early in the half they had rushed possessions and were throwing up wild shots...Then, when they needed to hurry later in the game, they were taking their time.

UNC played better defense in the second half but their best defense was Duke taking quick and wild shots.

I thought K did a bad job of leaving Smith out of the game too long in the second half, as he is the only guy who has a chance at stopping Lawson.

Pretty amazing for UNC to put up 100 with Hansbrough being a relative non factor.

The funny part of this game was that UNC was tearing Duke up in the post and actually, Zoubek did a good job on Hansbrough, as he did last year but K went away from him as the game had a quicker pace.

[Pushmonkey]

I think K's sub package was a bit of the wear down problem.. I don't recall seeing Plumble or EWill get off the bench. at least get out there for a minute to get some breather... not saying it would have made a difference..

[Sports Guy]

I think K's sub package was a bit of the wear down problem.. I don't recall seeing Plumble or EWill get off the bench. at least get out there for a minute to get some breather... not saying it would have made a difference..

Nope, neither played and they both should have, especially early on. Duke should be looking to try and establish Plumlee in the last part of the season to try and have some more presence inside.

The turning point of the game was when it was 73-69 and Thomas missed a point blank lay up and then fouled TH, who went down and hit a FT...It went from 73-71 to 74-69 and then UNC took off.

And then TH's 3 pointer was the ballgame.

[Sports Guy]

Luckily for Duke, Wake lost tonight as well.

As i have said, 2 of UNC, Duke and Wake will be going to Greensboro...I have no doubt UNC will be one of those teams....So, it will be Duke or Wake.

Duke has a tough stretch coming up...4 of the next 5 at home and I believe the one home game is against Wake. The BC game this weekend is huge.

[Jdan14]

UNC is so talented. They can win any game they want to by 20 points. I am so excited for the ACC Turney this year. Being a VT student I am excited about our potential to make some kind of a run in both turneys this year. It is a shame to watch how bad UMD has been this year. It seems like they won the Nat. Champ. 100 years ago.

[beaner]

Great game as always. We played GREAT in the second half, and Tywon Lawson was out of his mind. As he goes, so go the Heels. Nothing for Duke to be ashamed of, they played really well, especially Singler, who impresses me more every time I see him. He made Hansbrough look foolish on that step back three, very impressive.

I'm just really happy with the way we played in the second half, especially on defense. Tyler and Danny G go 4-0 at Cameron! I love it.

[Jdan14]

UNC is 2-0 on days when Brett Favre retires.

[Dr. FLK]

Lawson is unbelievably quick. He absolutely owned Paulus time, and time again. And, I don't think that's a real knock on Paulus...I don't know who could have guarded him last night. Smith did a better job, but Coach K decided to stick with the same 5 guys for basically the entire game...which probably made it easy for Lawson in the closing minutes when they were all exhausted.

[Sports Guy]

Lots of Duke fans upset with K's recruiting right now.

[beaner]

Lots of Duke fans upset with K's recruiting right now.

They need Mike Brey and his 1 Sweet 16 and TWO America East titles. He'd get the job done there.

[Sports Guy]

They need Mike Brey and his 1 Sweet 16 and TWO America East titles. He'd get the job done there.

LOL...I think it is fair to say recruiting has dropped off recently.

Duke has had some very good and talented teams but they weren't teams built to win championships.

They lost on Monroe for this season and their #1 target for next year, Boynton, chose Florida over Duke.

What K has done is put together teams that could be a sweet 16/elite 8 type team if things went their way but they have had bad matchups in the tourney and that has hurt them.

Now, they are bringing to big guys in next yar and if Henderson comes back to school next year, they should be very good and possibly the favorite to win it all...provided that Smith matures as a point guard.

The month of March should be interesting for Duke....Can they reach the ACC final? Can they get past the first weekend of the tourney?

If they can do those things, I think you would have to call this season a success but in reality, success is measured at Duke in terms of final 4s and championships.

[beaner]

LOL...I think it is fair to say recruiting has dropped off recently.

Duke has had some very good and talented teams but they weren't teams built to win championships.

They lost on Monroe for this season and their #1 target for next year, Boynton, chose Florida over Duke.

What K has done is put together teams that could be a sweet 16/elite 8 type team if things went their way but they have had bad matchups in the tourney and that has hurt them.

Now, they are bringing to big guys in next yar and if Henderson comes back to school next year, they should be very good and possibly the favorite to win it all...provided that Smith matures as a point guard.

The month of March should be interesting for Duke....Can they reach the ACC final? Can they get past the first weekend of the tourney?

If they can do those things, I think you would have to call this season a success but in reality, success is measured at Duke in terms of final 4s and championships.

I think he's done a god job recruiting, he's just fallen behind Carolina right now, and that's what matters most to Duke fans. They still have a ton of talent there. They just need to get a little deeper and bigger. It's killing them against teams like Clemson and Carolina.

[glenn__davis]

Is it recruiting, or development? IIRC Paulus was the top-rated PG coming out of HS. He's been OK, but not a star. McRoberts had a few decent but uninspiring seasons. Scheyer hasn't been all he was cracked up to be. And then you have the inability to develop a real solid inside guy since Boozer.

Of course, for all these "troubles" Duke was still the 5th ranked team in the country until last night.

[beaner]

Is it recruiting, or development? IIRC Paulus was the top-rated PG coming out of HS. He's been OK, but not a star. McRoberts had a few decent but uninspiring seasons. Scheyer hasn't been all he was cracked up to be. And then you have the inability to develop a real solid inside guy since Boozer.

Of course, for all these "troubles" Duke was still the 5th ranked team in the country until last night.

Good points, there are a lot of programs out there that would love to have Duke's "problems". Singler and Henderson are the real deal in my opinion, and Paulus is a really good player as well. They haven't had that superstar, player of the year type since the Redick/Williams class.

[glenn__davis]

Good points, there are a lot of programs out there that would love to have Duke's "problems". Singler and Henderson are the real deal in my opinion, and Paulus is a really good player as well. They haven't had that superstar, player of the year type since the Redick/Williams class.

Cripes, totally forgot about Williams. Ignore my "haven't developed a good inside player since Boozer" comment.

[YardBirds13]

UVA about to take down Clemson in OT!!!!!



Landesberg took over in OT

[Sports Guy]

UVA about to take down Clemson in OT!!!!!



Landesberg took over in OT

Yep..Bad loss for Clemson but not that shocking to see them drop this one.

Duke and UNC have very tough road games tonight.

Miami and BC, is they lose tonight, are going to be in a little trouble down the stretch.

I am still thinking 6 teams get in from the ACC, not the 7 or 8 so many think.

[YardBirds13]

Yep..Bad loss for Clemson but not that shocking to see them drop this one.

Duke and UNC have very tough road games tonight.

Miami and BC, is they lose tonight, are going to be in a little trouble down the stretch.

I am still thinking 6 teams get in from the ACC, not the 7 or 8 so many think.

Clemson really didn't play poorly IMO. UVa played their best game of the year, and Landesberg hit the shot to send it to OT and in OT totally put the team on his shoulders and won the game for them. This was his first Big Time ACC performance, and he was incredible. Figured it would happen on the day they retire Singletary's jersey. 15 is the new 44.

I think Duke might go down tonight. Miami is tough, but if UNC plays their best they don't lose to anyone.

And I think 6-7 is a better number than 7-8 for the ACC, although I could see 8 getting in if things work out.

UNC, Duke, Clemson, Wake, FSU are in IMO.

Tech, Miami, BC all have work to do and MD has lots of chances.

If I had to make a bet I'd say 7 get in.

[Sports Guy]

I am definitely worried about the Duke game tonight but I like the way Singler and Scheyer have bounced back the last couplke of games after some really bad games shooting. That was the biggest positive to take away from the UNC loss.

The offense is playing better now with Paulus starting again.

They are going to need Smith's defense on Rice tonight though.

[YardBirds13]

Great game so far from Boston.


Rice is really fun to watch.

[Sports Guy]

Great game so far from Boston.


Rice is really fun to watch.

Don't like Duke's chances down the stretch here.

They can't get that basket to get the lead back...They need that to happen.

[Sports Guy]

Damn, Tyrese Rice just bombed that 25+ footer. That kid can play.

[YardBirds13]

Damn, Tyrese Rice just bombed that 25+ footer. That kid can play.

Jackson has been great for them today too. Hit the big floater to put them ahead.


Rice to the line to ice it.

Tyrese Rice is just fun to watch, unless your team is playing him of course.

[Sports Guy]

Good win by BC...Bad loss for Duke.

[YardBirds13]

Good win by BC...Bad loss for Duke.

BC is dancing barring an epic collapse IMO.

I think the ACC has 6 locks now, again, barring something absurd.

Miami, VT and Maryland can all do what it takes to get in. Obviously MD is the longest shot there.

Dare I say, there is a tiny, tiny chance the ACC gets 9 teams?

[Sports Guy]

Collins not playing for Miami tonight.

Unless Miami shoots out of its mind, UNC romps in this game.

[YardBirds13]

Collins not playing for Miami tonight.

Unless Miami shoots out of its mind, UNC romps in this game.

Miami has really taken some bad shots in this game. McClinton should touch the ball every possession.

I'm surprised they have even hung around.

[YardBirds13]

McClinton is incredible!

Miami right in this one!

[AgentOrange]

Jack McClinton is a beast. That is all

Go ahead AO!

Calvert Hall Grad to boot. HOOOZA!

[YardBirds13]

Asbury trying to do too much cost Miami a shot to win.

When he ran over Hansbrough (wasn't that a block?), he should have pulled that back out and let McClinton work for a shot. Terrible.

Miami's guys besides McClinton do a bad job in shot selection.

Still a great game though. How clutch was Lawson's 3?

3 great ACC games today, with some incredible individual performances.

- Landesberg taking over in OT to get UVa a win over Clemson

- Rice with an incredible performance to beat Duke

- McClinton's incredible game against Carolina

- Lawson taking over the last 5 minutes to help the Heels win


THIS is why I love the ACC, because of games like today.

[Sports Guy]

Coach K needs to get his head out of his a$$ right now.

I am not sure what is going on with the bench...Tonight he only went 8...I don't remember what he did the other night but I know Plumlee and EWill didn't get off the bench...same with tonight. I am not sure if these guys are hurt and no one is saying anything or what but its crazy that they aren't getting any playing time.

He has got to start using his bench more.

I was reading a message board tonight and one of the posters brought up a great point...You can't be a jump shooting team if you run the players into the ground and tire them out and he is right.

The shots are flat and short because the legs just aren't there.

K needs to go back to using the bench. When Duke loses, it is almost always because they shoot poorly from 3 and one of the reasons for that is that they have tired legs as the game goes on...Duke also lacks that great shooter this year as well but still, they have to be better rested.

[Dr. FLK]

Coach K needs to get his head out of his a$$ right now.


The shots are flat and short because the legs just aren't there.

K needs to go back to using the bench. When Duke loses, it is almost always because they shoot poorly from 3 and one of the reasons for that is that they have tired legs as the game goes on...Duke also lacks that great shooter this year as well but still, they have to be better rested.

That's been their problem the last few years. It seems like most coaches go 8-10 deep early on, and then they settle in to their shorter rotation down the stretch. Coach K refuses to do that, he runs his guys into the ground, and then they limp across the finish line. His teams have been pretty loaded the last few years, and I don't think he's gotten enough out of them. Maybe he should trust some bench players.

[Dr. FLK]

Asbury trying to do too much cost Miami a shot to win.

When he ran over Hansbrough (wasn't that a block?), he should have pulled that back out and let McClinton work for a shot. Terrible.

I thought it was a clear charge...Tyler was in great position even though he was moving his feet, and Asbury had nowhere to go. I don't know why Miami would ever draw up a possession that didn't get McClinton the ball. That guy is absolutely amazing to watch. Even when it looks like he's guarded, he can find a good shot. If he had any help, Miami would have beaten UNC and Duke.

[Sports Guy]

That's been their problem the last few years. It seems like most coaches go 8-10 deep early on, and then they settle in to their shorter rotation down the stretch. Coach K refuses to do that, he runs his guys into the ground, and then they limp across the finish line. His teams have been pretty loaded the last few years, and I don't think he's gotten enough out of them. Maybe he should trust some bench players.
He was going deeper earlier in the season...Recently he hasn't and they have been losing.

[YardBirds13]

I thought it was a clear charge...Tyler was in great position even though he was moving his feet, and Asbury had nowhere to go. I don't know why Miami would ever draw up a possession that didn't get McClinton the ball. That guy is absolutely amazing to watch. Even when it looks like he's guarded, he can find a good shot. If he had any help, Miami would have beaten UNC and Duke.

Yeah, I'm rooting for Miami to get into the tournament for McClinton. He deserves it. The shot he hit against Duke to put that game into OT and the game he had tonight, he is a hell of a player.

The ACC just has so many fun guys to watch. Rice and McClinton can keep me watching an entire game with how fun they play.

That's how it was with Singletary last year.

[YardBirds13]

He was going deeper earlier in the season...Recently he hasn't and they have been losing.

Yeah, that's for sure. He has buried Williams, Plumlee, and even guys like Pocious.

Could hurt them in the tourney. Scheyer looks the most beat if you ask me.

[Sports Guy]

Yeah, that's for sure. He has buried Williams, Plumlee, and even guys like Pocious.

Could hurt them in the tourney. Scheyer looks the most beat if you ask me.

Yep...They can easily turn this around and have a good March but K has got to start using that bench or he is going to run all the starters into the ground and they will struggle to get out of the first round again.

[YardBirds13]

On the day Virginia honored its biggest star of the past decade, Sylven Landesberg showed he's ready to assume the position as the next one.





From the AP write-up on the UVA-Clemson game today. Needless to say I'm in a damn good mood.

[Ruzious]

Gotta really respect how Rice of BC has developed. He used to be basically a streetball player, and now he's one helluvan ACC point guard - and really understands how to keep his teammates involved and when he needs to take over. With Duke - they need Henderson to come up larger. He needs to get cockier - like Rice. And why doesn't Coach K use Zoubek more??? Dude is a legit 7 footer who can play.

[Sports Guy]

Gotta really respect how Rice of BC has developed. He used to be basically a streetball player, and now he's one helluvan ACC point guard - and really understands how to keep his teammates involved and when he needs to take over. With Duke - they need Henderson to come up larger. He needs to get cockier - like Rice. And why doesn't Coach K use Zoubek more??? Dude is a legit 7 footer who can play.

He needs to be using Plumlee more....Plumlee is more athletic and quicker than Zoubek but Zoubek should be getting some more minutes.

The lack of bench use the last few games has really cost Duke in a big way. K needs to correct that or they are going down early in the tourney again.

[Pushmonkey]

Clemson rebounded after a lose to VA to beat MD at littlejohn. Clemson is starting to have a nice little home court advantage.

[YardBirds13]

Clemson rebounded after a lose to VA to beat MD at littlejohn. Clemson is starting to have a nice little home court advantage.

I don't think Clemson has any sort of big time home court advantage.

Sure, they rocked Duke a few weeks ago, and had a dream second half against Maryland, but other than that they've beaten NC State and Georgia Tech at home, two of the bottom teams in the league. The only other good conference teams they played at home they lost to, in Wake and Florida State.

Don't get me wrong, they are a very solid team, but I don't see Littlejohn as one of those really, really tough places to go into and win.

[Pushmonkey]

I think if they don't far off the face of the earth like they have the past seasons that they can build a home court atmosphere. It is one thing to be rocking against Duke(most teams are), but it was nice to hear the crowd against MD.

[YardBirds13]

Landesberg is really starting to come into his own people.

A tremendous first half against Virginia Tech, and the Hoos lead by 10 at the half!

They've played most of the half without Mike Scott, but Assane Sene and Tunji Soroye have been great off the bench.

Leitao has these guys playing really well right now, and you can already tell how much of a leader Landseberg is out there.

The Hoos have something brewing for the future!

[YardBirds13]

Two in a row for Leitao and Landesberg and Co.! Three in a row in Raleigh this weekend?

Florida State cemented a NCAA bid tonight, beating Miami, and really putting the Canes in trouble. FSU held McClinton to 13 points. Miami pretty much needs all 4 of their remaining games, but they certainly can win all 4. BC, at UVA, at GT, NCST. I think they run the table, get to 8-8, and get in the tourney. One loss means they need to do work in the ACC Tourney.

VT suffers their second straight loss, and they are on thin ice as well. They are very similar to MD in terms of their ending schedule: FSU, at CLEM, DUKE, UNC, at FSU.

Tough, but games that if they win should really help them out. 3-2 and the Hokies dance IMO. 2-3 and it's a bit more dicey.

[beaner]

Two in a row for Leitao and Landesberg and Co.! Three in a row in Raleigh this weekend?

Florida State cemented a NCAA bid tonight, beating Miami, and really putting the Canes in trouble. FSU held McClinton to 13 points. Miami pretty much needs all 4 of their remaining games, but they certainly can win all 4. BC, at UVA, at GT, NCST. I think they run the table, get to 8-8, and get in the tourney. One loss means they need to do work in the ACC Tourney.

VT suffers their second straight loss, and they are on thin ice as well. They are very similar to MD in terms of their ending schedule: FSU, at CLEM, DUKE, UNC, at FSU.

Tough, but games that if they win should really help them out. 3-2 and the Hokies dance IMO. 2-3 and it's a bit more dicey.

Wasn't there another game in the ACC tonight? Hmm.. No respect for your league leaders?

[YardBirds13]

Wasn't there another game in the ACC tonight? Hmm.. No respect for your league leaders?

Nope, none at all :p

I was focusing more on the bubble teams, and being selfish and talking about my own team finally playing well.

You're right bean. Tyler dropped 27 on the Wolfpack and the Heels have just about sewn up the regular season title.

Oh, and since bean cleaaaaaarly wants me to cover every game in the league, Wake beat Georgia Tech tonight too. ;)

Sorry, as excited as I am about how Sylven and the boys have been playing, I'm still trying to recover from the Double-OT loss JMU took tonight basically taking away any shot of a first-round bye in the CAA Tourney.

[beaner]

Nope, none at all :p

I was focusing more on the bubble teams, and being selfish and talking about my own team finally playing well.

You're right bean. Tyler dropped 27 on the Wolfpack and the Heels have just about sewn up the regular season title.

Oh, and since bean cleaaaaaarly wants me to cover every game in the league, Wake beat Georgia Tech tonight too. ;)

Sorry, as excited as I am about how Sylven and the boys have been playing, I'm still trying to recover from the Double-OT loss JMU took tonight basically taking away any shot of a first-round bye in the CAA Tourney.

And Tyler Zeller came back too!!

tough loss for JMU, but you have to be happy with the season so far. You could be Towson.

[YardBirds13]

And Tyler Zeller came back too!!

tough loss for JMU, but you have to be happy with the season so far. You could be Towson.

Forgot about Zeller. Howd he look? Any chance Ginyard gets back?

And that's why I'm so bummed, because I'm so happy about the season so far, if that makes sense.

I'm thrilled to care about JMU hoops, just a rough back to back on our Wednesday road games. We lose in OT at VCU last week, then in Double OT at Hofstra.

Cannot wait for the CAA tourney though. Quarterfinal round will be as good there as any in the country. VCU, Northeastern, Mason, Drexel, Hofstra, ODU, JMU are all pretty close in talent.

[beaner]

Forgot about Zeller. Howd he look? Any chance Ginyard gets back?

And that's why I'm so bummed, because I'm so happy about the season so far, if that makes sense.

I'm thrilled to care about JMU hoops, just a rough back to back on our Wednesday road games. We lose in OT at VCU last week, then in Double OT at Hofstra.

Cannot wait for the CAA tourney though. Quarterfinal round will be as good there as any in the country. VCU, Northeastern, Mason, Drexel, Hofstra, ODU, JMU are all pretty close in talent.

Zeller looked bad, but he'll get better every time out. Ginyard is out for the season. Hopefully he'll get a redshirt.

Agreed 100% on the CAA. I'm looking forward to seeing Northeastern on a neutral floor. JMU is at least in position to win a few games, and you haven't been able to say that in a while.

[Sports Guy]

Wasn't there another game in the ACC tonight? Hmm.. No respect for your league leaders?

They should have handled NC State better than that.

I am going to say VT, MD and Miami get left out.

The bottom teams in the league aren't pushovers and they are going to upset some teams.

I have been saying I didn't think the ACC would get the 7-8 that many hoped for...I started the season thinking they would get 5 but FSU and especially BC have surprised me...I think both of those teams get in and of course the top 4.

[YardBirds13]

Zeller looked bad, but he'll get better every time out. Ginyard is out for the season. Hopefully he'll get a redshirt.

Agreed 100% on the CAA. I'm looking forward to seeing Northeastern on a neutral floor. JMU is at least in position to win a few games, and you haven't been able to say that in a while.

Did Ginyard get in at all during the beginning of the season? Seems to me like he should get his redshirt year.

They'll need him, since you have to believe Ty and Wayne will mosey on out of town with Tyler and Danny.

Oh, what's that? You have like 5 90-rated or higher recruits coming in next year too? Must be nice to be Carolina...;)


On the CAA, without question. Basketball has been an afterthought at that school, only being followed by me and stupid diehards like myself. Really exciting to see the team playing well. This kid Julius Wells is something else.

The thing with the CAA is, everybody has struggled on the road. It's been a pretty home court dominant league for the most part, so it'll be interesting to see how that translates to Richmond. I think I'd still make VCU the favorite, with Maynor and Sanders, but there are a handful who could win. PLaying two of the better teams in the league tight on the road the last two weeks certainly has me thinking JMU could make noise.

[YardBirds13]

They should have handled NC State better than that.

I am going to say VT, MD and Miami get left out.

The bottom teams in the league aren't pushovers and they are going to upset some teams.

I have been saying I didn't think the ACC would get the 7-8 that many hoped for...I started the season thinking they would get 5 but FSU and especially BC have surprised me...I think both of those teams get in and of course the top 4.

I think 1 of those 3 gets in and the ACC gets 7 teams. Miami has an easy schedule, so no room for slipping up. If they take care of business I think they get in.

Tech and Maryland have tough schedules, so they have plenty of opportunities, just not sure if they will be able to take advantage.

By the way, I hate Duke playing St. John's tomorrow night. Why schedule that game in mid-Feb? I know they do it alot, I just hate it.

[Sports Guy]

I think 1 of those 3 gets in and the ACC gets 7 teams. Miami has an easy schedule, so no room for slipping up. If they take care of business I think they get in.

Tech and Maryland have tough schedules, so they have plenty of opportunities, just not sure if they will be able to take advantage.

By the way, I hate Duke playing St. John's tomorrow night. Why schedule that game in mid-Feb? I know they do it alot, I just hate it.

I hate it because it probably prevents them from getting the extra rest and getting a full week off and that is important right now.

But the game itself is important...They should trample St Johns but we will see if they do...It also needs to be a game where K should re-establish his bench.

[beaner]

Did Ginyard get in at all during the beginning of the season? Seems to me like he should get his redshirt year.

They'll need him, since you have to believe Ty and Wayne will mosey on out of town with Tyler and Danny.

Oh, what's that? You have like 5 90-rated or higher recruits coming in next year too? Must be nice to be Carolina...;)


On the CAA, without question. Basketball has been an afterthought at that school, only being followed by me and stupid diehards like myself. Really exciting to see the team playing well. This kid Julius Wells is something else.

The thing with the CAA is, everybody has struggled on the road. It's been a pretty home court dominant league for the most part, so it'll be interesting to see how that translates to Richmond. I think I'd still make VCU the favorite, with Maynor and Sanders, but there are a handful who could win. PLaying two of the better teams in the league tight on the road the last two weeks certainly has me thinking JMU could make noise.

Ginyard got into three games before he got hurt again, so they're petitioning for a 5th season. We shall see.

Agreed, which is why I'm looking forward to the neutral floor. VCU has a small advantage, but every team seems to bring plenty of fans.

[Sports Guy]

VCU will have the best player in that tourney..I have seen some mock drafts with Maynor going in the top 17 or so.

Having the best player on the court is always so huge, especially in these mid major games.

[YardBirds13]

I hate it because it probably prevents them from getting the extra rest and getting a full week off and that is important right now.

But the game itself is important...They should trample St Johns but we will see if they do...It also needs to be a game where K should re-establish his bench.

Yeah, something is wrong if Williams, Plumlee, and Pocious dont see big minutes tomorrow night.

[Sports Guy]

Yeah, something is wrong if Williams, Plumlee, and Pocious dont see big minutes tomorrow night.

Pocious doesn't need to see the minutes as much...It is Plumlee and Williams..If they do, that will give Duke a good 10 man rotation.

What has bothered me is that Duke has gotten out to a lot of big leads in their games and instead of getting the key guys out of the game, K has left them in and then they start to get tired.

He should be stealing a lot of minutes from the key guys, especially in the first half, much more.

And they should be trying to establish something with Plumlee down low.

Plumlee and Williams are very talented and could do a lot of things..They are athletic and quick...They should be getting 8-12 minutes a game.

[YardBirds13]

VCU will have the best player in that tourney..I have seen some mock drafts with Maynor going in the top 17 or so.

Having the best player on the court is always so huge, especially in these mid major games.

No question.

Maynor is incredible. He should win CAA POY unanimously.

You could make the argument that they have the TWO best players in the league, when you talk about Larry Sanders too. He has been getting some NBA hype, and he is only a Soph.

Besides that, Janning at Northeastern is a very good player, as is Charles Jenkins at Hofstra, Gerald Lee for ODU, etc etc.

The CAA doesn't have the at-large team this year, but I wouldn't be shocked if any of the Top 7 teams won it, they have all been that close this year.

My boy Julius Wells is making a push for ROY of the CAA.

Thay would work out nicely. Wells of JMU can take it in the CAA and Landesberg can have it in the ACC. :D

[O's are Legends]

Duke at St.John's 7pm, going to the Garden!

and yes Maynor an absolute threat to all mid majors and big conferences, too bad VCU couldn't lend his services to Penn State or Illinois last night.

[waroriole]

Wake at Duke on Sunday. Hopefully, we see another great game with the same result. Could be a battle for 2nd in the ACC.

[Sports Guy]

Wake at Duke on Sunday. Hopefully, we see another great game with the same result. Could be a battle for 2nd in the ACC.

And if Wake wins, they will have the inside track of going to Greensboro for the first 2 rounds of the tourney.

[Sports Guy]

Well, K is doing a much better chance using his guys tonight.

He started EWill and Plumlee saw some productive minutes as well thus far...EWill has 9 first half points.

[PeteCanes]

Miami with the first win of 4 must win games. McClinton was sickening. I'll probably have a heart attack sometime in the next couple of weeks. They've got to get into the tourney so everyone can enjoy some prime time Jack.

Anybody coming to Richmond for the CAA tourney?

[beaner]

Miami with the first win of 4 must win games. McClinton was sickening. I'll probably have a heart attack sometime in the next couple of weeks. They've got to get into the tourney so everyone can enjoy some prime time Jack.

Anybody coming to Richmond for the CAA tourney?

I'm trying, but only can get tickets for as long as Towson is there. In other words, the play in round.

[backwardsk]

Miami with the first win of 4 must win games. McClinton was sickening. I'll probably have a heart attack sometime in the next couple of weeks. They've got to get into the tourney so everyone can enjoy some prime time Jack.

Anybody coming to Richmond for the CAA tourney?

I'll more than likely go on Sunday if either JMU or Mason is still in.

[Sports Guy]

Big win for Duke tonight.

Elliott Williams has really made a big difference.

[Sports Guy]

Big night in the ACC tonight.

Duke and VT win big road games...MD hurts their chances a little bit of getting into the tourney and Clemson is in danger of falling out of the top 4 spots to make sure they get a bye for the first day of the ACC tourney.

[YardBirds13]

Welp, Calvin Baker completely shuts down Jack McClinton all night (and I mean SHUT DOWN, he had 6 points with a minute left), and guess who FINALLY gets an open look at a 3 with 50 seconds left? And was there any question if it was going in?


McClinton was guarded as well as I've seen all year tonight, but man, when he got the open look at the end of the game, it was like you KNEW it was going down.

UVa played well again tonight, and they have been tough at home lately. Maryland better watch out when they come down next weekend.

[Sports Guy]

Welp, Calvin Baker completely shuts down Jack McClinton all night (and I mean SHUT DOWN, he had 6 points with a minute left), and guess who FINALLY gets an open look at a 3 with 50 seconds left? And was there any question if it was going in?


McClinton was guarded as well as I've seen all year tonight, but man, when he got the open look at the end of the game, it was like you KNEW it was going down.

UVa played well again tonight, and they have been tough at home lately. Maryland better watch out when they come down next weekend.

MD better watch out for State this weekend...They are playing really well and hung with Wake tonight.

I don't think MD goes to State and wins...In fact, I see them losing 2 of their last 3 games, meaning they will need 2 wins in the ACCT to get into the NCAAs.

[YardBirds13]

MD better watch out for State this weekend...They are playing really well and hung with Wake tonight.

I don't think MD goes to State and wins...In fact, I see them losing 2 of their last 3 games, meaning they will need 2 wins in the ACCT to get into the NCAAs.

MD doesn't have an easy win on the schedule right now. NC State has been playing really well as you said, and although Wake has struggled on the road, obviously they are tough.

UVA beat Clemson and VaTech in C'ville, and took Miami (while shutting down McClinton) to the wire tonight.

Terps have their work cut out for them.

Looking forward to your boys in Blacksburg this weekend. I think the Hokies play them tough, and looks like they won't have Smith.

[PeteCanes]

MD doesn't have an easy win on the schedule right now. NC State has been playing really well as you said, and although Wake has struggled on the road, obviously they are tough.

UVA beat Clemson and VaTech in C'ville, and took Miami (while shutting down McClinton) to the wire tonight.

Terps have their work cut out for them.

Looking forward to your boys in Blacksburg this weekend. I think the Hokies play them tough, and looks like they won't have Smith.

A gutsy performance all the same, playing with a sprained knee. Everyone and their mother knew that three was going in at the end.

[YardBirds13]

A gutsy performance all the same, playing with a sprained knee. Everyone and their mother knew that three was going in at the end.

No question.

It wasn't even one of those where you kind of lean and hold your breath, hoping it'll rim out.

It was, "Oh crap, Graham jsut laid a perfect screen on two guys, McClinton is open, we lost" Before the shot even left his hand!

He is incredible. As much as I was rooting for us to win last night, I really hope Miami gets in the tourney and makes some noise. McClinton is so much fun to watch.

[O's are Legends]

VT should of had the chance to tie or cut it to 1 with 18 seconds left. Scheyer traveled with the ref standing just a few feet away! :cussing:

[Burg]

Another stellar officiating "effort" in Blacksburg.

I can't decide which call I like best - the super flop where the Dukie was actually falling backwards before ADV was within four feet of him that was, of course, a charge OR the lovely jig danced by Scheyer which was, of course, not a travel.

Or maybe I'll just be happy that VT only got nailed with SEVEN charges. I mean, really, against Duke that's a good day at the office.

Duke is the absolute king of getting calls, especially flops and walks. It's simply amazing to me why everyone is mystified that they lose on the first weekend of the NCAAT every year. It's because they don't get the 5-7 BS flop charges a game that they get in ACC play.

I hate Duke with the fire of 1,000 suns.

[Burg]

VT should of had the chance to tie or cut it to 1 with 18 seconds left. Scheyer traveled with the ref standing just a few feet away! :cussing:

Are you kidding me?

Duke players don't travel or commit blocking fouls.

Ask Coach K and the ACC refs. They'll fill you in.

[Sports Guy]

Are you kidding me?

Duke players don't travel or commit blocking fouls.

Ask Coach K and the ACC refs. They'll fill you in.

No chance VT lost because they shot 41% from the field or because they turned it over 19 times, right?

Or maybe because their leading scrorer had more turnovers than FGs made?

[Oriolesfan8]

Are you kidding me?

Duke players don't travel or commit blocking fouls.

Ask Coach K and the ACC refs. They'll fill you in.

I'm getting sick of every team that loses blaming the refs. It takes all the fun out of following the games / teams. Yeah, Scheyer walked, but 9 times out of 10 VTech's called for reaching in first. Refs didn't call that either.

There's plenty of calls every game that can go either way or are missed. Earlier in the game, Bell intentionally elbowed Singler in the head / neck. Should have been a technical called, or at least a foul, but was no call. Generally the calls even out, and there's not some grand conspiracy by all of the refs to make sure one team wins.

VTech played great in the second half and had an amazing comeback but just came up a little short. Fans should spend their time applauding their effort, not whining about the refs. Next game.

[Burg]

No chance VT lost because they shot 41% from the field or because they turned it over 19 times, right?

Or maybe because their leading scrorer had more turnovers than FGs made?

Don't spin this into me complaining that the refs cost VT the game. I will freely admit that Duke is the better team. There is no question that Duke's talent exceeds VT's talent. I'll even freely admit that Duke outplayed us today for much of the game and deserved a W.

I would LOVE, however, for a Duke fan, just one, to admit that they get the benefit of the doubt from the refs in just about EVERY ACC game that they play.

There is no way that you can not call a walk on Scheyer at the end of the game. Just no way. The ref is literally four feet away watching Scheyer's pivot foot move THREE times.

And there is no way that you can call charges when the defender flops before the contact. Yet this happens over and over when Duke plays.

And, quite frankly, it pisses me every time I see it, no matter who Duke is playing against.

And I sincerely believe that this hurts Duke in the NCAAT because all of a sudden they have to play 5-on-5 with neutral officiating and, next thing you know, the Belmonts and VCUs of the world take them to the wire.

[Burg]

I'm getting sick of every team that loses blaming the refs. It takes all the fun out of following the games / teams. Yeah, Scheyer walked, but 9 times out of 10 VTech's called for reaching in first. Refs didn't call that either.

There's plenty of calls every game that can go either way or are missed. Earlier in the game, Bell intentionally elbowed Singler in the head / neck. Should have been a technical called, or at least a foul, but was no call. Generally the calls even out, and there's not some grand conspiracy by all of the refs to make sure one team wins.

VTech played great in the second half and had an amazing comeback but just came up a little short. Fans should spend their time applauding their effort, not whining about the refs. Next game.

Again, we deserved to lose.

Also again, Duke benefits from officiating every time they step on the floor in the ACC, no matter who it is against, with the possible exception of UNC. Any neutral observer can see this time and time again.

[Sports Guy]

Again, we deserved to lose.

Also again, Duke benefits from officiating every time they step on the floor in the ACC, no matter who it is against, with the possible exception of UNC. Any neutral observer can see this time and time again.
Oh, i admit they get the B.O.D...They do because they are a well coached, great program that does things the right way...Lots of the top schools, teams and individual players get calls.

That being said, the neutral observer is also usually someone who doesn't know what they hell they are talking about(not saying you are in this category).

Many times when the fans in the stand are yelling foul, they are dead wrong..They have no idea.

Sure, there are terrible, obvious calls that are missed..Hell, Duke may have 4 NC had the refs called the obvious foul on Boozer when JWill missed the FTs and Boozer got the board and went for the put back...They didn't call that one.

It happens..It sucks but instead of whining about it every game, you move on.

And, as OrioleFan8 pointed out, refs miss calls all the time...At home we have the benefit of seeing the game at a higher angle and in slow motion if needs be...The refs don't.

[Fairfax Bird]

No chance VT lost because they shot 41% from the field or because they turned it over 19 times, right?

Or maybe because their leading scrorer had more turnovers than FGs made?

7 of those turnovers were charges and several of those were not charges. They had more than the BOD today. The officiating was pretty bad.

In particular was the charge on ADV mentioned earlier and the offensive foul on Malcom Delaney on the dribble hand-off. That was a terrible call.

[MNAFETSC]

Duke is the absolute king of getting calls, especially flops and walks. It's simply amazing to me why everyone is mystified that they lose on the first weekend of the NCAAT every year. It's because they don't get the 5-7 BS flop charges a game that they get in ACC play.



Was that you posting on techsidelines;)?

[Burg]

Was that you posting on techsidelines;)?

Guilty as charged.

[AgentOrange]

Go Wake Forest

Oh boo hoo.

Just because the Hoyas lost doesn't mean you have to get all sour in this thread.

[O's are Legends]

Oh boo hoo.

Just because the Hoyas lost doesn't mean you have to get all sour in this thread.

I always root against the Terps, well I really don't hate UMD but Vasquez has talked too much trash about Mason and Gtown in the past as Caner-Medley did so I can't pull for the Terps until Vasquez is gone.

Guess my quick go Wake did sound it bit too sour, sorry.

[AgentOrange]

I always root against the Terps, well I really don't hate UMD but Vasquez has talked too much trash about Mason and Gtown in the past as Caner-Medley did so I can't pull for the Terps until Vasquez is gone.

Guess my quick go Wake did sound it bit too sour, sorry.

Haha. No big deal man. I was just giving you a hard time since you posted your Hoyas thing, and then right after that you type "Go WF".

:)

[YardBirds13]

Rough 24 hours for the ACC Bubble:

Terps lose to Wake last night.

BC loses at NC State tonight.

Tech loses to Carolina tonight.

Miami is down at Georgia Tech right now.

Jeeze.

[beaner]

Rough 24 hours for the ACC Bubble:

Terps lose to Wake last night.

BC loses at NC State tonight.

Tech loses to Carolina tonight.

Miami is down at Georgia Tech right now.

Jeeze.

Miami is done in my opinion. Terps should be in if they win at Virginia. Va Tech will have their hands full at FSU, they could be in trouble despite playing well hosting Duke and Carolina these past few days.

[backwardsk]

Miami is done in my opinion. Terps should be in if they win at Virginia. Va Tech will have their hands full at FSU, they could be in trouble despite playing well hosting Duke and Carolina these past few days.

You don't think the Terps need to win 1 in the ACC tourney?

[beaner]

You don't think the Terps need to win 1 in the ACC tourney?

I don't think they need to, but obviously it would lock it up if they did. They do need to win this weekend though.

[YardBirds13]

I think the Terps COULD be in if the beat UVA and lose in the ACC Tourney. Some other teams bomb, every thing goes right in the little conference tournies, etc.


That said, it would be a LONG, LONG wait if they don't win their first round ACC Tourney game.

Agree Miami is done. They just had nobody to play with McClinton. Too bad.

Tech needs the game at FSU too. We could be looking at 6 in the ACC, 7 if MD takes care of business, 8 if Tech comes up big.

[PeteCanes]

Sickened.




.

[YardBirds13]

Sickened.




.


Miami may not be done. Gotta beat NC State this weekend, obviously.

If they do that, it puts them in an 8-9 matchup with either MD or VT.

Win that ACC Tourney Game and they certainly have a chance. Probably still outside looking in, but who knows.

[PeteCanes]

Miami may not be done. Gotta beat NC State this weekend, obviously.

If they do that, it puts them in an 8-9 matchup with either MD or VT.

Win that ACC Tourney Game and they certainly have a chance. Probably still outside looking in, but who knows.

Sickened.



.

[PaulBako]

The ACC tourney:

Posted from another site:

Thursday, March 12
No. 8 Virginia Tech vs. No. 9 Miami, Noon (Raycom)
No. 5 Clemson vs. No. 12 Georgia Tech, 2:30 p.m. (Raycom)
No. 7 Maryland vs. No. 10 NC State, 7:00 p.m. (ESPN2)
No. 6 Boston College vs. No. 11 Virginia, 9:30 p.m. (Raycom)

Friday, March 13
Game No. 5: No. 1 North Carolina vs. Virginia Tech/Miami winner, Noon (Raycom/ESPN2)
Game No. 6: No. 4 Florida State vs. Clemson/Georgia Tech winner, 2:30 p.m. (Raycom/ESPN2)
Game No. 7: No. 2 Wake Forest vs. Maryland/NC State winner, 7:00 p.m. (Raycom/ESPN2)
Game No. 8: No. 3 Duke vs. Boston College/Virginia winner, 9:30 p.m. (Raycom/ESPN2)

Saturday, March 14
Game No. 9: ACC Semifinals, 1:30 p.m. (Raycom/ESPN) Game
No. 10 - ACC Semifinals, 4:00 p.m. (Raycom/ESPN)

Sunday, March 15
Game No. 11 - Championship Game, 1:00 p.m. (Raycom/ESPN)

[blueberryale77]

Ty Lawson questionable for the ACC tournament; reported on ESPN bottom line.

He's not playing and Va Tech is up by three. Half the Tarheels in my office are whining, the other half are bragging about how it doesn't matter because they're going to be the #1 overall seed anyway. Hopefully that means they get a date with my Retrievers after UMBC beats Binghamton and then wins the play-in game (pretty sure that's where they'll be going since their overall record will be .500 if they win tomorrow).

[glenn__davis]

Good to see UNC hold on. This should burst the Hokie's bubble (sorry VT fans). If MD can get a win tonight (big IF, I know), I like their chances of getting in.

[beaner]

He's not playing and Va Tech is up by three. Half the Tarheels in my office are whining, the other half are bragging about how it doesn't matter because they're going to be the #1 overall seed anyway. Hopefully that means they get a date with my Retrievers after UMBC beats Binghamton and then wins the play-in game (pretty sure that's where they'll be going since their overall record will be .500 if they win tomorrow).

As a Tarheel I must say that I'm surprised that your co workers are acting that way. Coach Smith frowned upon bragging and anything like it. Very disappointing to hear that.

[SteveA]

Good to see UNC hold on. This should burst the Hokie's bubble (sorry VT fans). If MD can get a win tonight (big IF, I know), I like their chances of getting in.

Yeah, we're done. Too many games we couldn't finish, for one reason or another. Playing great for 38 minutes isn't enough, you have to get the Ws when it comes down to it.

Disappointing, I think we have the talent to make the NCAA. But you have to win the games on the court. Xavier beats us with a halfcourt shot. BC beats us with a put-back at the buzzer when we don't box out. FSU beats us when we set up and get the open look we want but AD Vasallo misses. Wisconsin beats us at the buzzer. Two close losses to UNC, one not decided until the buzzer. Close loss to Duke. Blown 15 point lead vs Clemson.

Reverse ANY ONE of those results and I think we are probably in. But we didn't get it done.

I think I'll have another beer.

[Sports Guy]

If FSU beats GT, I am not sure how UNC will beat FSU without Lawson.

[beaner]

Yeah, we're done. Too many games we couldn't finish, for one reason or another. Playing great for 38 minutes isn't enough, you have to get the Ws when it comes down to it.

Disappointing, I think we have the talent to make the NCAA. But you have to win the games on the court. Xavier beats us with a halfcourt shot. BC beats us with a put-back at the buzzer when we don't box out. FSU beats us when we set up and get the open look we want but AD Vasallo misses. Wisconsin beats us at the buzzer. Two close losses to UNC, one not decided until the buzzer. Close loss to Duke. Blown 15 point lead vs Clemson.

Reverse ANY ONE of those results and I think we are probably in. But we didn't get it done.

I think I'll have another beer.

Kudos to you guys, you always play us tough and today was no different. Great game!

[waroriole]

Tough game for Wake tonight. I was rooting for NCSU last night (sorry Terp fans), b/c Maryland is playing for their tourney lives. After a narrow escape in College Park a couple of weeks ago, I could easily see the Terps pulling this one out.

[blueberryale77]

As a Tarheel I must say that I'm surprised that your co workers are acting that way. Coach Smith frowned upon bragging and anything like it. Very disappointing to hear that.

Well to be fair the person making the most noise about how they were going to be a #1 anyway went to a Division III school but his wife went to Carolina.

[beaner]

Well to be fair the person making the most noise about how they were going to be a #1 anyway went to a Division III school but his wife went to Carolina.

I'm sure the wife has more class then ;).

[Sports Guy]

What a game by Duke/BC.

[Sports Guy]

FREAKIN SCHEYER!!!!

Can't miss the front end of that 1 and 1!!!

[The Rick]

FREAKIN SCHEYER!!!!

Can't miss the front end of that 1 and 1!!!

Yeah, what a Jason Williams esque miss there. That's seriously what it reminded me of.

BC ball in their zone with 5.5 left. What a great finish either way.

[The Rick]

Terps vs. Duke tomorrow night. Will the third time be a charm for MD tomorrow night? Or will this be the second time this year that a hated Maryland rival beats a Maryland team three times in one season?

[Sports Guy]

Whew!

Way to deny Rice on that last play there.

Elliot Williams really earning his keep.

[Pedro Cerrano]

The Ravens lost to the Steelers thrice this year.

Please God, don't let this happen again to another one of my favorite teams.....

[Sports Guy]

Well, UNC loses...Not surprising without Lawson...They played as well as they could though and almost pulled it off.

This FSU team has a chance to make a deep run in the NCAAs.

[Pedro Cerrano]

Wonder how well Lawson will be ready next week. Obviously he will play but how effective will he be?

[YardBirds13]

Great game.

Douglas showed why he could have been POY, and I think without having Lawson Carolina showed why he was deserving of the award as well.

If you are a Maryland fan, this might not be the best thing.

If UNC had won, 100% chance their fans hang around to root against Duke.

Now that they lost, you'd hope they'll stick around to cheer Duke down too, but that may not happen. Getting the non-your team fans on your side in the ACC Tourney is a huge help for an underdog.

[Sports Guy]

Wonder how well Lawson will be ready next week. Obviously he will play but how effective will he be?

He looked decent against Duke...I would expect him to be fine.

Obviously UNC will win their first game but without a 100% Lawson and better defensive intensity, any game after that they could go down.

[beaner]

Well, UNC loses...Not surprising without Lawson...They played as well as they could though and almost pulled it off.

This FSU team has a chance to make a deep run in the NCAAs.

WE really need him back. Ellington played well, but couldn't create when he had to. Frasor plays hard and hustles every play, but he's not Lawson.

Douglas played terrific, and I'm with you Rob, they could do some damage. Gotta be happy for Leonard Hamilton though. I keep picturing him on the Wizards sideline looking like a lost puppy.

[Sports Guy]

Well, FSU is a tough matchup for Duke...Duke has beaten them twice this year though.

Looking forward to bringing the ACC tourney crown back to where it belongs...Durham! :D

[beaner]

Well, FSU is a tough matchup for Duke...Duke has beaten them twice this year though.

Looking forward to bringing the ACC tourney crown back to where it belongs...Durham! :D

And this is why when my friends ask me why I still care so much about the ACC tournament. The thought sickens me.

[Sports Guy]

And this is why when my friends ask me why I still care so much about the ACC tournament. The thought sickens me.

Hey, its been a while since Duke won it...We are due.

If Duke wins tomorrow, should they get a #1 seed?

[beaner]

Hey, its been a while since Duke won it...We are due.

If Duke wins tomorrow, should they get a #1 seed?

Fair enough, this one's yours. No excuses but I think we'd have won today if Lawson played.

Yes, with all of the big boys losing this week, they deserve it.

UNC
Louisville
Duke
Pitt

?

[Sports Guy]

Fair enough, this one's yours. No excuses but I think we'd have won today if Lawson played. I agree but FSU did play UNC very tough with Lawson, so who knows. BTW, Duke has a very tough game tomorrow.

Yes, with all of the big boys losing this week, they deserve it.

UNC
Louisville
Duke
Pitt
Should UCONN be knocked out?

What about Memphis?

I think Duke is locked into a 2 seed, regardless of the outcome tomorrow.

Now, if Louisville loses tonight, maybe Duke has a chance at a 1 if they win.

[beaner]

I agree but FSU did play UNC very tough with Lawson, so who knows. BTW, Duke has a very tough game tomorrow.

Should UCONN be knocked out?

What about Memphis?

I think Duke is locked into a 2 seed, regardless of the outcome tomorrow.

Now, if Louisville loses tonight, maybe Duke has a chance at a 1 if they win.

FSU/Duke should be a good one, no question. I almost want to root for Duke given that no "phony" ACC teams have actually won a title yet. We'll see.

I chose Pittsburgh over Connecticut because they beat them twice.

I can't stand Memphis, no way do I think they deserve a #1, but the committee might be impressed with their wins over Marshall and Central Florida. I'm not. They played 4 games against decent teams this year and went 1-3.

[Sports Guy]

FSU/Duke should be a good one, no question. I almost want to root for Duke given that no "phony" ACC teams have actually won a title yet. We'll see.

I chose Pittsburgh over Connecticut because they beat them twice.

I can't stand Memphis, no way do I think they deserve a #1, but the committee might be impressed with their wins over Marshall and Central Florida. I'm not.
LOL...I feel the same way...Don't see how they are more deserving of a #1 over even Mich St, much less Duke if they win tomorrow....Hell, Mizzou should get it over them if they beat Baylor IMO.

[beaner]

LOL...I feel the same way...Don't see how they are more deserving of a #1 over even Mich St, much less Duke if they win tomorrow....Hell, Mizzou should get it over them if they beat Baylor IMO.

If Duke happens to be a #2 to Memphis #1, consider yourself lucky.

[Sports Guy]

Well, the title is back where it belongs...UNC and Duke now tied for ACC titles.

[beaner]

Well, the title is back where it belongs...UNC and Duke now tied for ACC titles.

I hate you. ;)

[Sports Guy]

I hate you. ;)

No you don't..I'm your favorite HOer! :D

[beaner]

No you don't..I'm your favorite HOer! :D

You know it buddy!

[Sports Guy]

You know it buddy!

And secretly, you love Duke...I know it...you know it. :)