I was in the television studio this morning helping out with the weekly coaches show, when I ran into head men's backetball coach Terry Sellers.
After chatting with Sellers for a few minutes, I just had to know what Martin's status was for the Augusta game on Thursday night.
(Martin left Saturday's game with a concussion in the first two minutes of the second half)
Sellers said that Graham did not practice in Tuesday's session, and if Martin cannot go today in practice, then things look grim for Thursday.
I reported yesterday in the main portion of the blog that Graham said he would be ready to go after talking to Graham in class on Tuesday. Sellers, isn't so sure.
GCSU needs Martin, there's no question about it. If I had to guess, I'd say Martin will be ready to play knowing him.
Nontheless, we will find out Thursday night!
Talk to you from Augusta at 7:20 on Country102.3fm in Milledgeville or online at http://www.country102fm.com/ (wkzr link).
#14 'Cats vs. #7 'Jags!
This one will be fun!
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
#14 Men's Hoops Set to Take on #7 Augusta State on Thursday, Defeat Clayton this Past Saturday
The streak is at 12 in a row!
And ironically enough, Terry Sellers’ Bobcats are going for win number 13 against no. 7 Augusta State University on Thursday night.
Hmmm…trying to track down number 13 (we all know the negative implications of that number). Is it also a coincidence both teams’ mascots are members of the feline family?
This is setting up to be an outstanding matchup. Heck, I don’t even know where to begin with this one.
Therefore, I’ll let you know that the Bobcats are fresh off a 74-67 victory on Saturday against Clayton State. Georgia College got a new career high from junior guard Andre Mikell. ‘Dre put up 19 points, including 3-5 from behind the arc. Senior point guard Ty Rowland also chipped in with 18 points.
What was most impressing about the victory for GCSU?
-GCSU came back from an 11-point deficit at intermission to claim the lead midway through the second period.
-The Bobcats, as a team, committed just three turnovers for the entire game! That’s 1.5 turns a half and 1 miscue every 13.33 mins!
-During this recent twelve-game streak, we have seen a terrific display of shooting from the free-throw line. Against Clayton, Georgia College was 28-31 from the stripe, hitting 90.3%. (As an aside, GCSU averages 20 tosses per game from the charity stripe during the recent winning stretch).
The Bobcats, however got a scare during the game. Senior guard Graham Martin (15.6 points, 4 rebounds, and 2.5 assists) suffered a mild concussion in the second period after crashing head-first into the steel bleachers in one of the Centennial Center end zones. Martin left towards the beginning of the second half, and did not return.
(Gasp. Inhale)
After speaking with Martin in class today, though, he said he is fine and ready to go.
(and exhale!)
Which brings us to this week…
The Bobcats recently jumped in the national poll, moving seven slots to no.14 on Tuesday afternoon. Augusta State also jumped, moving up five spots to no.7 in the nation.
What a match-up! This is a broadcaster’s dream: A packed house, two great teams battling it out, and perhaps a matchup that has postseason implications come conference and national tourney time.
So, what’s so great about Augusta?
Let’s begin with All-American senior guard Ben Madgen (18 points, 4.5 rebounds, 2.1 assists). Madgen is an excellent fundamental player: he can dribble, he can shoot, and he can shoot off the dribble.
Throw in senior guard/forward Fred Brathwaite (16.3 points, 7.8 rebounds), then you definitely have a sold one-two punch.
Don’t forget about senior guard Daniel Dixon (11 points, 4.7 assists) out front, too. Notice the trend? All of the three are seniors, meaning these Jaguars have experience.
Let me throw in one more senior: forward Alex Smith (14.8 points, 5.7 rebounds).
I think that about covers the big names for Augusta.
Now, don’t get me wrong, Georgia College is talented. But this is an Augusta State team that has seen success deep into the postseason. Just a short two years ago, the Jaguars played for all the marbles, falling just short of being named a national champion in the DII Tourney.
The Bobcats have experience, too. GCSU will put the 13 game winning streak on the line Thursday.
So, we’ve covered the attack for Augusta. But what are the keys to the game?
Glad you asked!
1) How well can Georgia College defend the perimeter? By that, can the Bobcat defense (either the Vegas Zone or Man-D) stop the dribble-drive-and-kick style offense that ASU has almost perfected? The Bobcats can not allow Madgen, Brathwaite, and Dixon to see easy looks at the basket because of the inability to stop the basketball. Staying in a defensive/athletic stance must be an emphasis the whole game. It’s odd to say, but this is the one out of a hundred times you might say “I’d rather get beat from the inside than the outside/outside-half.”
2) I’ll be looking at the rebounding numbers throughout the contest. Georgia College was out-duled on the glass last time out against Clayton by 17. Augusta State allows teams to lasso just 26.8 rebounds per outing. The Bobcat forwards (junior Josh Hurst, sophomore Ryan Aquino and reserve senior center Rob Thomas) must play big on the interior. The term “playing big” mean’s gaining position, using your body-hand and arms- to grab rebounds. Georgia College must box out on every shot! The Bobcats were torched on second-chance tries by Clayton 21-7 last Saturday.
3) Will Georgia College have a second option just in case the three-point shot doesn’t fall regularly? We live and die by the long-ball. That looks to stay true against Augusta State.
4) The bench play will be imperative. I can’t stress this enough! Comparing the four main bench players of each team, GCSU leads by just 4.9 points at 17.7-12.8. If the Bobcats can get significant minutes from the men on the pine, things will stay close the whole match. (As an aside…when junior guard Andre Mikell scores in double-figures, Georgia College is 7-0 on the year. Hence the nickname “Mr. Sparkplug!”)
5) Close games always come down to free throws most of the time. During this twelve game streak, GCSU is right around 80 percent as a team from the line. On the season, the Jaguars are 73.8 percent, whereas GCSU is 76.4.
Which guard set will prevail? Rowland-Martin-Rios of GCSU, or Madgen-Dixon-Brathwaite of ASU?
Those are a few places to begin. I’m sure we’ll see more stories unfold as the game progresses Thursday night.
I’ve been told Georgia College will be taking two large caravans to the game to support the women’s and men’s teams. ASU averages 1,516 per game…GCSU looks to take some of that away!
Now that’s what it’s all about!
And Scott MacLeod and myself will tell you all about at 7:20 on Thursday night on Country 102.3 fm in Milledgeville or online at www.country102fm.com (wkzr link).
This one is going to be a doozey!
And ironically enough, Terry Sellers’ Bobcats are going for win number 13 against no. 7 Augusta State University on Thursday night.
Hmmm…trying to track down number 13 (we all know the negative implications of that number). Is it also a coincidence both teams’ mascots are members of the feline family?
This is setting up to be an outstanding matchup. Heck, I don’t even know where to begin with this one.
Therefore, I’ll let you know that the Bobcats are fresh off a 74-67 victory on Saturday against Clayton State. Georgia College got a new career high from junior guard Andre Mikell. ‘Dre put up 19 points, including 3-5 from behind the arc. Senior point guard Ty Rowland also chipped in with 18 points.
What was most impressing about the victory for GCSU?
-GCSU came back from an 11-point deficit at intermission to claim the lead midway through the second period.
-The Bobcats, as a team, committed just three turnovers for the entire game! That’s 1.5 turns a half and 1 miscue every 13.33 mins!
-During this recent twelve-game streak, we have seen a terrific display of shooting from the free-throw line. Against Clayton, Georgia College was 28-31 from the stripe, hitting 90.3%. (As an aside, GCSU averages 20 tosses per game from the charity stripe during the recent winning stretch).
The Bobcats, however got a scare during the game. Senior guard Graham Martin (15.6 points, 4 rebounds, and 2.5 assists) suffered a mild concussion in the second period after crashing head-first into the steel bleachers in one of the Centennial Center end zones. Martin left towards the beginning of the second half, and did not return.
(Gasp. Inhale)
After speaking with Martin in class today, though, he said he is fine and ready to go.
(and exhale!)
Which brings us to this week…
The Bobcats recently jumped in the national poll, moving seven slots to no.14 on Tuesday afternoon. Augusta State also jumped, moving up five spots to no.7 in the nation.
What a match-up! This is a broadcaster’s dream: A packed house, two great teams battling it out, and perhaps a matchup that has postseason implications come conference and national tourney time.
So, what’s so great about Augusta?
Let’s begin with All-American senior guard Ben Madgen (18 points, 4.5 rebounds, 2.1 assists). Madgen is an excellent fundamental player: he can dribble, he can shoot, and he can shoot off the dribble.
Throw in senior guard/forward Fred Brathwaite (16.3 points, 7.8 rebounds), then you definitely have a sold one-two punch.
Don’t forget about senior guard Daniel Dixon (11 points, 4.7 assists) out front, too. Notice the trend? All of the three are seniors, meaning these Jaguars have experience.
Let me throw in one more senior: forward Alex Smith (14.8 points, 5.7 rebounds).
I think that about covers the big names for Augusta.
Now, don’t get me wrong, Georgia College is talented. But this is an Augusta State team that has seen success deep into the postseason. Just a short two years ago, the Jaguars played for all the marbles, falling just short of being named a national champion in the DII Tourney.
The Bobcats have experience, too. GCSU will put the 13 game winning streak on the line Thursday.
So, we’ve covered the attack for Augusta. But what are the keys to the game?
Glad you asked!
1) How well can Georgia College defend the perimeter? By that, can the Bobcat defense (either the Vegas Zone or Man-D) stop the dribble-drive-and-kick style offense that ASU has almost perfected? The Bobcats can not allow Madgen, Brathwaite, and Dixon to see easy looks at the basket because of the inability to stop the basketball. Staying in a defensive/athletic stance must be an emphasis the whole game. It’s odd to say, but this is the one out of a hundred times you might say “I’d rather get beat from the inside than the outside/outside-half.”
2) I’ll be looking at the rebounding numbers throughout the contest. Georgia College was out-duled on the glass last time out against Clayton by 17. Augusta State allows teams to lasso just 26.8 rebounds per outing. The Bobcat forwards (junior Josh Hurst, sophomore Ryan Aquino and reserve senior center Rob Thomas) must play big on the interior. The term “playing big” mean’s gaining position, using your body-hand and arms- to grab rebounds. Georgia College must box out on every shot! The Bobcats were torched on second-chance tries by Clayton 21-7 last Saturday.
3) Will Georgia College have a second option just in case the three-point shot doesn’t fall regularly? We live and die by the long-ball. That looks to stay true against Augusta State.
4) The bench play will be imperative. I can’t stress this enough! Comparing the four main bench players of each team, GCSU leads by just 4.9 points at 17.7-12.8. If the Bobcats can get significant minutes from the men on the pine, things will stay close the whole match. (As an aside…when junior guard Andre Mikell scores in double-figures, Georgia College is 7-0 on the year. Hence the nickname “Mr. Sparkplug!”)
5) Close games always come down to free throws most of the time. During this twelve game streak, GCSU is right around 80 percent as a team from the line. On the season, the Jaguars are 73.8 percent, whereas GCSU is 76.4.
Which guard set will prevail? Rowland-Martin-Rios of GCSU, or Madgen-Dixon-Brathwaite of ASU?
Those are a few places to begin. I’m sure we’ll see more stories unfold as the game progresses Thursday night.
I’ve been told Georgia College will be taking two large caravans to the game to support the women’s and men’s teams. ASU averages 1,516 per game…GCSU looks to take some of that away!
Now that’s what it’s all about!
And Scott MacLeod and myself will tell you all about at 7:20 on Thursday night on Country 102.3 fm in Milledgeville or online at www.country102fm.com (wkzr link).
This one is going to be a doozey!
Georgia College Women's Basketball Hit the Road After 2-2 Home Stand
Well, let’s just throw that one out the window for the Bobcat women. Georgia College wrapped up their four-game home stand on Saturday afternoon against #15 Clayton State.
It might have been better to just let the team stay at home. As harsh as that sounds, the Bobcats were torched in every facet of the game, falling to the Lakers 70-35. GCSU was outscored in points in the paint 50-20!
As a coach, and if I’m John Carrick, I’m chalking that one up as the worst performance of the team this year. There was no energy, enthusiasm and pride present in the Bobcat women.
Those games happen, however. Some days, teams just don’t have it. And putting that into a broader perspective, some days we don’t bring our best effort in our daily life. We, and the Bobcat women, must learn from it, and move on.
That’s exactly what the ‘Cats will do on Thursday night in Augusta. The Bobcats (15-6, 8-3 Peach Belt Conference-west) will hit the Christenberry Fieldhouse hardwood and take on the Augusta State Jaguars (1-21, 0-13 PBC-east).
Obviously, the records indicate who the better team is. But I can tell you this: bring the effort that was present on Saturday against Clayton, things will get ugly.
The Jags are winless on the home pitch and are desperately attempting to reverse that trend. Give a team that’s yearning for any sign of hope like the Jaguars, then you could be snuck up on. Led by freshman guard Waneta Carlisle at 10.9 points and 5.5 rebounds, the Jaguars look to have their foundation for the future. Junior forward Stacey Lampkin (8.2 points, 5.5 rebounds) will also be one of the players the Jags will rely to reverse a long eighteen-game skid.
The Jaguars are relatively balanced. Augusta has five other players that draw over six points per outing. If this team can get all facets going at once, who knows what could happen.
With that, here are my keys for Georgia College on Thursday:
1) There has to be some return of energy. Being beaten on two passes up the floor like we saw against Francis Marion and Clayton State on this past home stretch will not cut it. Now is the time to start playing your best basketball with the conference lurking around the corner. Bring a sense of pride and humbleness knowing that it is an honor to play sports at the collegiate level.
2) Junior guard Chimere Jordan, the offensive leader of the team, has been quiet the past two games. Jordan has been held scoreless three of the past four halves. I am interested to see how Jordan responds.
3) I’ll be watching the rebounding battle. Augusta allows 39.3 rebounds per game. Specifically, I’ll be keying in on defensive rebounding. If senior center Antoinette Reames can establish positioning inside, things should end right at the buzzer for GCSU.
4) The defense for the Bobcats must be present, both in transition and the half-court. During four road games this year, GCSU has been stellar in opponents gym’s, allowing just 57.5 points per game.
5) I would like to see a balanced game from all the starters. By that, I mean effective ball rotation. Having four players in double-figures would be nice.
Basically, which team will show up, is the question. The one with or without energy?
If the answer is he first of the two, things will be fine loading the bus back to Milly-Vegas.
But, we’ll have to wait and see for ourselves.
Talk to you at 5:20 in Augusta on Country 102.3 fm or online at www.country102fm.com
Looking forward to re-joining Scott MacLeod, veteran “Voice of the Bobcats,” who will bring you the play-by-play. Yours truly, with the analysis!
It might have been better to just let the team stay at home. As harsh as that sounds, the Bobcats were torched in every facet of the game, falling to the Lakers 70-35. GCSU was outscored in points in the paint 50-20!
As a coach, and if I’m John Carrick, I’m chalking that one up as the worst performance of the team this year. There was no energy, enthusiasm and pride present in the Bobcat women.
Those games happen, however. Some days, teams just don’t have it. And putting that into a broader perspective, some days we don’t bring our best effort in our daily life. We, and the Bobcat women, must learn from it, and move on.
That’s exactly what the ‘Cats will do on Thursday night in Augusta. The Bobcats (15-6, 8-3 Peach Belt Conference-west) will hit the Christenberry Fieldhouse hardwood and take on the Augusta State Jaguars (1-21, 0-13 PBC-east).
Obviously, the records indicate who the better team is. But I can tell you this: bring the effort that was present on Saturday against Clayton, things will get ugly.
The Jags are winless on the home pitch and are desperately attempting to reverse that trend. Give a team that’s yearning for any sign of hope like the Jaguars, then you could be snuck up on. Led by freshman guard Waneta Carlisle at 10.9 points and 5.5 rebounds, the Jaguars look to have their foundation for the future. Junior forward Stacey Lampkin (8.2 points, 5.5 rebounds) will also be one of the players the Jags will rely to reverse a long eighteen-game skid.
The Jaguars are relatively balanced. Augusta has five other players that draw over six points per outing. If this team can get all facets going at once, who knows what could happen.
With that, here are my keys for Georgia College on Thursday:
1) There has to be some return of energy. Being beaten on two passes up the floor like we saw against Francis Marion and Clayton State on this past home stretch will not cut it. Now is the time to start playing your best basketball with the conference lurking around the corner. Bring a sense of pride and humbleness knowing that it is an honor to play sports at the collegiate level.
2) Junior guard Chimere Jordan, the offensive leader of the team, has been quiet the past two games. Jordan has been held scoreless three of the past four halves. I am interested to see how Jordan responds.
3) I’ll be watching the rebounding battle. Augusta allows 39.3 rebounds per game. Specifically, I’ll be keying in on defensive rebounding. If senior center Antoinette Reames can establish positioning inside, things should end right at the buzzer for GCSU.
4) The defense for the Bobcats must be present, both in transition and the half-court. During four road games this year, GCSU has been stellar in opponents gym’s, allowing just 57.5 points per game.
5) I would like to see a balanced game from all the starters. By that, I mean effective ball rotation. Having four players in double-figures would be nice.
Basically, which team will show up, is the question. The one with or without energy?
If the answer is he first of the two, things will be fine loading the bus back to Milly-Vegas.
But, we’ll have to wait and see for ourselves.
Talk to you at 5:20 in Augusta on Country 102.3 fm or online at www.country102fm.com
Looking forward to re-joining Scott MacLeod, veteran “Voice of the Bobcats,” who will bring you the play-by-play. Yours truly, with the analysis!
Saturday, February 6, 2010
Streak to Eleven for Bobcat Men's Hoops; Lakers in Town Today
Eleven.
11.
Eee-lev-hen.
There’s many ways to look at it, say it, and show it.
But, that’s the current winning streak of the no.21 Georgia College and State University men’s basketball team. The Bobcats stand at 17-2 and a perfect 10-0 in conference play. The conference mark is the best start of any team in school history.
The Bobcats are just off a key 88-84 win against the North Georgia College and State University Saints this past Wednesday night. Led by the seniors Graham Martin with 20 points, Ty Rowland’s 18 points and Jake Rios’ 17, the Bobcats were able to remain undefeated. All in all, the “big three” for GCSU put up terrific performances against the Saints, who were lurking right behind the Bobcats in the Peach Belt Conference west standings.
Today, it’s the Lakers of Clayton State University in town. And what a matchup we get to witness this afternoon! All three guards are averaging in double figures for the Lakers (12-8, 5-5 in the PBC-west) and will present an exciting matchup against the big guards of GCSU.
Here are the guard matchups to watch this afternoon:
- Senior #21 Robert Murray of Clayton (16.6 points, 2.3 rebs) vs. #22 Rios of GCSU (13.5 points per game)
- Junior #5 Brandon Robinson of Clayton (14.1 points, 5.2 rebounds) vs. #2 Martin of GCSU (15.9 points, 3.8 rebounds, 2.8 assists)
-Junior #24 Timmy Downs of Clayton (11.6 points, 3.8 assists) vs. #4 Rowland (10.1 points, 5.26 assists)
If that’s not enough to watch this one, I don’t know what is! All six guards are athletic, talented, and play smart basketball. Both teams turn the basketball over less than 13 times each outing.
So, here are a few points of emphasis:
1) Perimeter defense for GCSU must be played in stopping the lethal outside attack that Clayton presents. The three guards Clayton possesses make up 56 percent of their scoring attack. Limit that, and things should look good for the Bobcats!
2) I will be watching the play of junior guard Andre Mikell of GCSU in this battle. When Mikell scores in double figures this season, the Bobcats are 6-0. Last game against Clayton State, Mikell had 11 points, 3 assists, and 2 rebounds. Mikell has been outstanding serving as the sixth man for GCSU this year.
3) With a lethal outside attack presented by both teams, where do the posts come into play? It’s key for GCSU to rebound in this game. Junior forward Josh Hurst (6.6 rebounds) and sophomore forward Ryan Aquino (5.8 rebounds) must corrall defensive rebounds this afternoon for the ‘Cats. The Bobcats were out-rebounded by Clayton State the last time these teams met on Jan. 9 by a tally of 33-27. However, the Bobcats won that match 69-50. The score is deceiving, however. Clayton was within eight points during the final three minutes of the game until Terry Seller’s crew pulled away.
Let’s make it a dozen!
Twelve in a row going into no.12 Augusta State next Thursday would be pretty sweet.
More on that one, later!
Chat with you all at 3:25 on PeachBelt TV (www.pennatlantic.com – free telecast)!
11.
Eee-lev-hen.
There’s many ways to look at it, say it, and show it.
But, that’s the current winning streak of the no.21 Georgia College and State University men’s basketball team. The Bobcats stand at 17-2 and a perfect 10-0 in conference play. The conference mark is the best start of any team in school history.
The Bobcats are just off a key 88-84 win against the North Georgia College and State University Saints this past Wednesday night. Led by the seniors Graham Martin with 20 points, Ty Rowland’s 18 points and Jake Rios’ 17, the Bobcats were able to remain undefeated. All in all, the “big three” for GCSU put up terrific performances against the Saints, who were lurking right behind the Bobcats in the Peach Belt Conference west standings.
Today, it’s the Lakers of Clayton State University in town. And what a matchup we get to witness this afternoon! All three guards are averaging in double figures for the Lakers (12-8, 5-5 in the PBC-west) and will present an exciting matchup against the big guards of GCSU.
Here are the guard matchups to watch this afternoon:
- Senior #21 Robert Murray of Clayton (16.6 points, 2.3 rebs) vs. #22 Rios of GCSU (13.5 points per game)
- Junior #5 Brandon Robinson of Clayton (14.1 points, 5.2 rebounds) vs. #2 Martin of GCSU (15.9 points, 3.8 rebounds, 2.8 assists)
-Junior #24 Timmy Downs of Clayton (11.6 points, 3.8 assists) vs. #4 Rowland (10.1 points, 5.26 assists)
If that’s not enough to watch this one, I don’t know what is! All six guards are athletic, talented, and play smart basketball. Both teams turn the basketball over less than 13 times each outing.
So, here are a few points of emphasis:
1) Perimeter defense for GCSU must be played in stopping the lethal outside attack that Clayton presents. The three guards Clayton possesses make up 56 percent of their scoring attack. Limit that, and things should look good for the Bobcats!
2) I will be watching the play of junior guard Andre Mikell of GCSU in this battle. When Mikell scores in double figures this season, the Bobcats are 6-0. Last game against Clayton State, Mikell had 11 points, 3 assists, and 2 rebounds. Mikell has been outstanding serving as the sixth man for GCSU this year.
3) With a lethal outside attack presented by both teams, where do the posts come into play? It’s key for GCSU to rebound in this game. Junior forward Josh Hurst (6.6 rebounds) and sophomore forward Ryan Aquino (5.8 rebounds) must corrall defensive rebounds this afternoon for the ‘Cats. The Bobcats were out-rebounded by Clayton State the last time these teams met on Jan. 9 by a tally of 33-27. However, the Bobcats won that match 69-50. The score is deceiving, however. Clayton was within eight points during the final three minutes of the game until Terry Seller’s crew pulled away.
Let’s make it a dozen!
Twelve in a row going into no.12 Augusta State next Thursday would be pretty sweet.
More on that one, later!
Chat with you all at 3:25 on PeachBelt TV (www.pennatlantic.com – free telecast)!
Bobcat Women's BBall Back At It Again vs. Nationally Ranked Clayton State
Another crucial game for the Georgia College and State University women’s hoops team is upon us today. The ‘Cats welcome nationally ranked Clayton State University to town to close out this current four game home stand.
GCSU (15-5, 8-2 Peach Belt Conference west) most recently defeated the Saints of North Georgia College and State University on Wednesday. The Bobcats were led by Shandrea Moore’s 17 points and eight steals to pull in the victory. With those eight take-aways, Moore set a new career high in that category. GCSU also got 14 points from junior Chimere Jordan and 12 from junior guard Dominique Huffin.
The contest was a game of two halves, and GCSU shot poorly in the first period, but coming out hot at a 42.4 percent clip in the second period. GCSU shot just 12.5 percent from behind the arc in the first period, but was 6-12 for 50 percent in the second.
Well, the Bobcats certainly can’t afford a slow start in either halves this afternoon against the fifteenth best team in the nation.
Today is second matchup between the two rivals of the season. The Lakers sit at 17-3 and 8-2 in the belt. One of their three losses this year came to John Carrick’s crew back on January 9 in Morrow, Ga. GCSU trounced the Lakers via the three-pointer shooting 48.1 percent as a team, led by Jordan’s 18 points. The Bobcat bench also chipped in, outscoring the Lakers 22-6 on the evening.
This Lakers team is extremely aggressive. If you joined the broadcast against Francis Marion a week back, the Lakers resemble the Patriots.
The keys to the game, then, look a little something like this:
1) Georgia College must limit points and touches in the paint. The Bobcats were beat last game inside 36-20. The Lakers thrive on transition buckets and one-vs.one guard play, too. The post presence has to be there this afternoon, both offensively and defensively. Senior center Antoinette Reames, who missed the previous game with a stomach bug, must perform. Reames lassoed 11 rebounds last game, causing GCSU to win the battle on the glass 44-37.
2) Which team will show up? By that, what type of energy will GCSU bring to platform? Will it be the Georgia College team who shows enthusiasm and spunk throughout the game, or will it be the lackadaisical approach in handling the basketball and playing selfish style? If the first is brought, then this game will be a sensational battle. If not, it will be over in the blink of an eye.
3) Clayton State executes full court pressure effectively. The Lakers force teams to turn the sphere 26 times a game. Therefore, handling ball pressure out front by the Bobcat guards will be imperative.
4) The last I heard, I can gleefully report that Reames and senior guard Candice Clark, who was out Wednesday with strep throat, will play this afternoon. However, both will probably not be at full strength. The bench must provide key minutes.
Showing up is half the battle. Mentally preparing to play is the toughest part of playing a strenuous season of basketball.
Talk with you from Milledgeville’s Centennial Center at 1:25 on PeachBelt TV! (www.pennatlantic.com – free telecast!)
GCSU (15-5, 8-2 Peach Belt Conference west) most recently defeated the Saints of North Georgia College and State University on Wednesday. The Bobcats were led by Shandrea Moore’s 17 points and eight steals to pull in the victory. With those eight take-aways, Moore set a new career high in that category. GCSU also got 14 points from junior Chimere Jordan and 12 from junior guard Dominique Huffin.
The contest was a game of two halves, and GCSU shot poorly in the first period, but coming out hot at a 42.4 percent clip in the second period. GCSU shot just 12.5 percent from behind the arc in the first period, but was 6-12 for 50 percent in the second.
Well, the Bobcats certainly can’t afford a slow start in either halves this afternoon against the fifteenth best team in the nation.
Today is second matchup between the two rivals of the season. The Lakers sit at 17-3 and 8-2 in the belt. One of their three losses this year came to John Carrick’s crew back on January 9 in Morrow, Ga. GCSU trounced the Lakers via the three-pointer shooting 48.1 percent as a team, led by Jordan’s 18 points. The Bobcat bench also chipped in, outscoring the Lakers 22-6 on the evening.
This Lakers team is extremely aggressive. If you joined the broadcast against Francis Marion a week back, the Lakers resemble the Patriots.
The keys to the game, then, look a little something like this:
1) Georgia College must limit points and touches in the paint. The Bobcats were beat last game inside 36-20. The Lakers thrive on transition buckets and one-vs.one guard play, too. The post presence has to be there this afternoon, both offensively and defensively. Senior center Antoinette Reames, who missed the previous game with a stomach bug, must perform. Reames lassoed 11 rebounds last game, causing GCSU to win the battle on the glass 44-37.
2) Which team will show up? By that, what type of energy will GCSU bring to platform? Will it be the Georgia College team who shows enthusiasm and spunk throughout the game, or will it be the lackadaisical approach in handling the basketball and playing selfish style? If the first is brought, then this game will be a sensational battle. If not, it will be over in the blink of an eye.
3) Clayton State executes full court pressure effectively. The Lakers force teams to turn the sphere 26 times a game. Therefore, handling ball pressure out front by the Bobcat guards will be imperative.
4) The last I heard, I can gleefully report that Reames and senior guard Candice Clark, who was out Wednesday with strep throat, will play this afternoon. However, both will probably not be at full strength. The bench must provide key minutes.
Showing up is half the battle. Mentally preparing to play is the toughest part of playing a strenuous season of basketball.
Talk with you from Milledgeville’s Centennial Center at 1:25 on PeachBelt TV! (www.pennatlantic.com – free telecast!)
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
No. 21 Bobcats Tomahawk Braves, Now Ready to Face Balanced Saints
You can call it the biggest game of the year for the Georgia College and State University men’s basketball team.
Thus far, that is.
Tonight, the ‘Cats take on the Saints of North Georgia College & State University out of Dahlonega.
The Bobcats are at an impressive 16-2 and 9-0 in the Peach Belt Conference western division. The conference mark is good for first place and is also the best start in school history for the Bobcats.
Georgia College is also nationally ranked at #21, moving up four slots after last week’s play. GCSU defeated Francis Marion University this past Friday and most recently scorched the UNC Pembroke Braves on Sunday 82-50.
Terry Sellers and his Bobcats shot a whopping 29 times from behind the arc, hitting 41.4 percent. The Bobcats have now won 10 in a row and look to make it 11 tonight against a highly-talented Saints squad.
The Saints are at 12-7 overall, but at 7-2 in the PBC-west. North Georgia started out the season sluggish, but dating back to Dec. 17, NGCSU is 8-3 in 11 games played. Prior to that date, the Saints were just 3-5.
North Georgia presents challenges to Georgia College in many areas. The Saints have four players on their roster that hit double digits every outing. Led by senior guard Michael Moynihan (15 points, 4.8 assists per game) out front and senior forward Bernard Rimmer (11.6 points, 6.3 rebounds), the Saints have a well balanced scoring attack. North Georgia also has junior guard Carl Taylor (10.8 points) and senior center Andrew Bennett (11.2 points, 5.7 rebounds) adding to the mix.
The Saints also allow teams to garner just 32.1 rebounds each game. That could possibly bode disastrous for GCSU with a huge emphasis on rebounding with a quick-spurted team.
Here are the keys to tonight’s contest:
1) Georgia College can’t allow the two post players for North Georgia to get hot. Starters Josh Hurst and Ryan Aquino must play smart underneath, deny the passes, and most importantly, not get into foul trouble.
2) Along the same lines of the first key, it’s also imperative for the Bobcat perimeter defense to be a force this evening. Seniors Graham Martin, Ty Rowland, and Jake Rios have to pick up the guards for the Saints early in the possession and not allow easy basket cuts.
3) I’ll be watching the three-point shooting tonight for the Bobcats. During this recent 10 game run, Georgia College is shooting 43.4 percent from behind the arc in 202 total attempts. Not too shabby!
4) The Bobcats must being energy and focus. The guys should be rested up as not one player was on the floor for more than 25 minutes this past Sunday against UNC Pembroke.
5) I am energized to watch the post battles this evening. Hurst/Aquino for GCSU up against Bennett/Rimmer for North Georgia. Nothing like physicality on the blocks!
This game is important, folks. Georgia College is ahead of the Saints in the PBC-west by two games. A loss here would make things interesting with the DII powerhouse, conference member, and nationally ranked #12 Augusta State Jaguars lurking ahead next Thursday.
Chat with you at 7:25 from inside the Centennial Center during the telecast on Peach Belt TV (www.pennatlantic.com – sign up for free)!
It’s the classic battle between the Bobcats and the Saints, aka, cat and dog!
Thus far, that is.
Tonight, the ‘Cats take on the Saints of North Georgia College & State University out of Dahlonega.
The Bobcats are at an impressive 16-2 and 9-0 in the Peach Belt Conference western division. The conference mark is good for first place and is also the best start in school history for the Bobcats.
Georgia College is also nationally ranked at #21, moving up four slots after last week’s play. GCSU defeated Francis Marion University this past Friday and most recently scorched the UNC Pembroke Braves on Sunday 82-50.
Terry Sellers and his Bobcats shot a whopping 29 times from behind the arc, hitting 41.4 percent. The Bobcats have now won 10 in a row and look to make it 11 tonight against a highly-talented Saints squad.
The Saints are at 12-7 overall, but at 7-2 in the PBC-west. North Georgia started out the season sluggish, but dating back to Dec. 17, NGCSU is 8-3 in 11 games played. Prior to that date, the Saints were just 3-5.
North Georgia presents challenges to Georgia College in many areas. The Saints have four players on their roster that hit double digits every outing. Led by senior guard Michael Moynihan (15 points, 4.8 assists per game) out front and senior forward Bernard Rimmer (11.6 points, 6.3 rebounds), the Saints have a well balanced scoring attack. North Georgia also has junior guard Carl Taylor (10.8 points) and senior center Andrew Bennett (11.2 points, 5.7 rebounds) adding to the mix.
The Saints also allow teams to garner just 32.1 rebounds each game. That could possibly bode disastrous for GCSU with a huge emphasis on rebounding with a quick-spurted team.
Here are the keys to tonight’s contest:
1) Georgia College can’t allow the two post players for North Georgia to get hot. Starters Josh Hurst and Ryan Aquino must play smart underneath, deny the passes, and most importantly, not get into foul trouble.
2) Along the same lines of the first key, it’s also imperative for the Bobcat perimeter defense to be a force this evening. Seniors Graham Martin, Ty Rowland, and Jake Rios have to pick up the guards for the Saints early in the possession and not allow easy basket cuts.
3) I’ll be watching the three-point shooting tonight for the Bobcats. During this recent 10 game run, Georgia College is shooting 43.4 percent from behind the arc in 202 total attempts. Not too shabby!
4) The Bobcats must being energy and focus. The guys should be rested up as not one player was on the floor for more than 25 minutes this past Sunday against UNC Pembroke.
5) I am energized to watch the post battles this evening. Hurst/Aquino for GCSU up against Bennett/Rimmer for North Georgia. Nothing like physicality on the blocks!
This game is important, folks. Georgia College is ahead of the Saints in the PBC-west by two games. A loss here would make things interesting with the DII powerhouse, conference member, and nationally ranked #12 Augusta State Jaguars lurking ahead next Thursday.
Chat with you at 7:25 from inside the Centennial Center during the telecast on Peach Belt TV (www.pennatlantic.com – sign up for free)!
It’s the classic battle between the Bobcats and the Saints, aka, cat and dog!
Bobcat Women Bounce Back vs. Braves, Look Ahead to Saints
That’s more like it!
After a troubling loss to #17 Francis Marion University last Friday night, John Carrick and his Georgia College Bobcats bounced back quickly in defeating the UNC Pembroke Braves this past Sunday 61-56.
The Bobcats were led by junior guard Chimere Jordan again with 24 points. Jordan connected on five of her ten three-pointers in the contest. Junior guard Dominique Huffin was also stellar, chipping in with 10 points.
Senior center Antoinette Reames lassoed 12 rebounds, eight which came on the offensive glass.
The best way to describe the win for GCSU came by way of the three-pointer. Averaging just over six made per game, Georgia College nearly doubled that mark, going 12-27 (44.4 percent) from beyond the arc.
Tonight, the Bobcats are back at it. This time, it’s the North Georgia College & State University Saints in town making the trip from Georgia’s city of gold to the antebellum capital.
The Saints stand at 8-10 and 3-6 in the Peach Belt Conference west division. Georgia College sits at 14-5 and 7-2 in the PBC-west. The GCSU mark in conference action is good for first place, along with Clayton State University.
Therefore, this game is crucial. Moreso for the Bobcats because on paper this a team Georgia College “should” beat.
The Saints have a dynamic one-two punch in the paint with freshman forward Janyce Ealey (14.1 points, 6.9 rebounds per game) and senior forward Whitney Randolph (17.7 points, 9.3 rebounds).
North Georgia relies on the post play heavily. Winners of their past three games, the Saints are getting 84 percent of their points from the forward and center positions. Fifty-three percent of those points have come from Ealey and Randolph.
So, what are the keys to the game for GCSU?
1) The Bobcat post players (Reames and junior Tammeisha Law) must have focus and energy in the paint tonight when guarding Ealey and Randolph. Those two must limit the touches and effectiveness of the Saint post players.
2) Head Coach John Carrick has said all season that when his players bring energy to the floor, the team is successful. Saying that, Georgia College must bring enthusiasm when hitting the floor this evening.
3) Rebounding is always key when dealing with the Bobcat women. GCSU was outrebounded in the past two games combined 89-74. Despite Reames crashing the glass, some players also have to establish a want to get rebounds.
4) Tonight, I’ll be keying in on the senior point guard Shandrea Moore of Georgia College. Moore has been struggling of late, averaging 3.6 points per game in the last six outings. Carrick has stuck with Moore, and I don’t blame him. While Moore is struggling offensively with point production, her overall maturity level is needed on the floor for GCSU to be successful. Moore brings energy, focus and overall basketball savvy to the game each time out.
5) I think it’s understood now that we are all watching the sensational play of Jordan. The junior has been in double figures in six straight games and has put up 20+ in three of the past four matches.
Another Peach Belt Conference division battle on tap this evening! It’s the battle of the “and State Universities” tonight!
Nothing like being on the home pitch, either! (Game three of this current four-game home swing)
Talk with you at 5:25 on Peach Belt TV (http://www.pennatlantic.com/ – free telecast after signing up)!
After a troubling loss to #17 Francis Marion University last Friday night, John Carrick and his Georgia College Bobcats bounced back quickly in defeating the UNC Pembroke Braves this past Sunday 61-56.
The Bobcats were led by junior guard Chimere Jordan again with 24 points. Jordan connected on five of her ten three-pointers in the contest. Junior guard Dominique Huffin was also stellar, chipping in with 10 points.
Senior center Antoinette Reames lassoed 12 rebounds, eight which came on the offensive glass.
The best way to describe the win for GCSU came by way of the three-pointer. Averaging just over six made per game, Georgia College nearly doubled that mark, going 12-27 (44.4 percent) from beyond the arc.
Tonight, the Bobcats are back at it. This time, it’s the North Georgia College & State University Saints in town making the trip from Georgia’s city of gold to the antebellum capital.
The Saints stand at 8-10 and 3-6 in the Peach Belt Conference west division. Georgia College sits at 14-5 and 7-2 in the PBC-west. The GCSU mark in conference action is good for first place, along with Clayton State University.
Therefore, this game is crucial. Moreso for the Bobcats because on paper this a team Georgia College “should” beat.
The Saints have a dynamic one-two punch in the paint with freshman forward Janyce Ealey (14.1 points, 6.9 rebounds per game) and senior forward Whitney Randolph (17.7 points, 9.3 rebounds).
North Georgia relies on the post play heavily. Winners of their past three games, the Saints are getting 84 percent of their points from the forward and center positions. Fifty-three percent of those points have come from Ealey and Randolph.
So, what are the keys to the game for GCSU?
1) The Bobcat post players (Reames and junior Tammeisha Law) must have focus and energy in the paint tonight when guarding Ealey and Randolph. Those two must limit the touches and effectiveness of the Saint post players.
2) Head Coach John Carrick has said all season that when his players bring energy to the floor, the team is successful. Saying that, Georgia College must bring enthusiasm when hitting the floor this evening.
3) Rebounding is always key when dealing with the Bobcat women. GCSU was outrebounded in the past two games combined 89-74. Despite Reames crashing the glass, some players also have to establish a want to get rebounds.
4) Tonight, I’ll be keying in on the senior point guard Shandrea Moore of Georgia College. Moore has been struggling of late, averaging 3.6 points per game in the last six outings. Carrick has stuck with Moore, and I don’t blame him. While Moore is struggling offensively with point production, her overall maturity level is needed on the floor for GCSU to be successful. Moore brings energy, focus and overall basketball savvy to the game each time out.
5) I think it’s understood now that we are all watching the sensational play of Jordan. The junior has been in double figures in six straight games and has put up 20+ in three of the past four matches.
Another Peach Belt Conference division battle on tap this evening! It’s the battle of the “and State Universities” tonight!
Nothing like being on the home pitch, either! (Game three of this current four-game home swing)
Talk with you at 5:25 on Peach Belt TV (http://www.pennatlantic.com/ – free telecast after signing up)!
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