It is time to tread on ESPN's "Numbers Don't Lie," with my own "Just the Stats."
It isn't any secret to followers of this blog or people that know me that I delve into statistics and numbers. Perhaps it is the old sports information director in me or maybe it goes deeper. Since I was collecting football and baseball cards as a kid, I have always had an interest in sports stats. Now, my fascination did not translate into As in math on my report cards or a career as a mathematician (I hated geometry). Still, I like numbers and what analysis provides.
This "Just the Stats" blog will delve into Coyote football, specifically points scored and allowed at home and on the road, over the past five years. It is proper to look at that period as it entails the Coyotes transition to Division 1- FCS.
Over the last five years, USD has compiled a 27-27 (.500) record (all under former head coach Ed Meierkort). The numbers show that the Coyotes put together an impressive 21-5 mark at the DakotaDome but struggled on the road with a 6-22 record. Three times USD had 6-5 seasons (2011, 2008 and 2007) with its 4-7 campaign in 2010 representing the tail-end.
Since 2007, South Dakota has totaled 1,632 points or 326.4 per season. USD has allowed 1,323 points to opponents, which breaks out to 264.6 per season. As a result, the Coyotes had an overall 30.22 to 24.5 points per game advantage over foes. In those 54 games (28 on the road, 26 at home), the Coyotes scored 30 or more points 28 times; breaking 40 on 15 occasions. They compiled 50 or more points six times and twice went past 60 with a high of 70 points (Culver-Stockton, Mo. College). South Dakota recorded six shutouts (five at the DakotaDome) and had a scoring low of three points (28-3 loss to Illinois State on the road in 2011).
The Coyotes did not fare well in games decided by seven or fewer points with a 3-12 mark. They were 2-4 in those games at the DakotaDome and 1-8 on the road.
Overall, USD had a single-season high point total of 412 (37.45 ppg) in 2008; but generated 300 or more points in 4-of-5 seasons with a low of 249 in 2010.
At the DakotaDome, the Coyotes scored 948 points or 189.6 per season and allowed 383 or 76.6 per season. Overall, South Dakota averaged 36.46 points per game at home while allowing just 14.73. Three times the Coyotes scored 200 points at home with a high of 224 in 2008 and a low of 137 in 2010. A year ago USD outscored opponents, 207-84 at the Dome. South Dakota has not allowed over 100 points to its opponents in any season with a low of 44 in 2008 and a high of 92 in 2007. USD allowed 84 total points in both 2010 and 2011.
The road has not been a favorable place for the red and white as the 6-22 record would indicate. The Coyotes scored 684 points in 28 road games or 136.8 per season. They scored a high of 188 on the road in 2008 and a low of 110 in 2009 (10-game season). They had 112 points in 11-game season of 2010. As for opponents, South Dakota allowed 940 points or 188 per season. The Coyotes gave up a high of 211 points in 2007. Overall, the Coyotes were outscored 33.57 to 24.43 on the road.
When all is stated, "Just the Stats" show USD scores more at home, 36.46 per game, than they allow on the road, 33.57. The closeness of those numbers show that USD's 27-27 record fits.
As I close on this Coyote football fact check, South Dakota had some big moments, including a scintillating program-defining 41-38 win over Minnesota of the Big Ten in 2010 and the equally satisfying 30-17 victory over the #1 FCS-ranked Eastern Washington at the DakotaDome in 2011. USD, which was ranked as high as #14 in the FCS a year ago, had a 2-10 record vs. FCS-ranked teams during the last five seasons.
South Dakota By the Numbers
2011 (6-5)
Total Points -- 301 to 273
Home Points -- 207 to 84
Road Points -- 94 to 189
2010 (4-7)
Total Points -- 249 to 279
Home Points -- 137 to 84
Road Points -- 112 to 186
2009 (5-5)
Total Points -- 325 to 272
Home Points -- 215 to 79
Road Points -- 110 to 193
2008 (6-5)
Total Points -- 412 to 205
Home Points -- 224 to 44
Road Points -- 188 to 161
2007 (6-5)
Total Points -- 345 to 303
Home Points -- 165 to 92
Road Points -- 180 to 211
Overall
Total Points -- 1,632 - 30.22 (54 games)
Opponent Points -- 1,323 - 24.5 ppg (54 games)
Home Points -- 948 - 36.46 ppg
Home Opponent Points -- 383 - 14.73 ppg
Road Points -- 684 - 24.43 ppg
Road Opponent Points -- 940 - 33.57 ppg
Wednesday, April 25, 2012
Sunday, April 22, 2012
Coyote Football Standout Tom Compton Hopes for Call during NFL Draft
With the NFL Draft set to be held on April 26-28, South Dakota's All-American offensive tackle Tom Compton is hoping for a call, most likely on the third day (Saturday) during rounds 4-7. Here is a feature story I wrote about Compton in March for the RedEye, a publication by PrintSource in Vermillion, S.D.
Update - draft note: On April 28, Compton was drafted in the sixth round (pick 193, 23rd, 6th Rd.) by the Washington Redskins.
Update - draft note: On April 28, Compton was drafted in the sixth round (pick 193, 23rd, 6th Rd.) by the Washington Redskins.
Since the day
he stepped onto the University of South Dakota campus, the 6-6, 314-pound
offensive tackle hasn’t taken any plays off in practice, in class or games.
Rather, he has kept his head in the game, a focus which in turn has made him a
difference maker and one destined for bigger things.
After a career
as one of the best-ever football players in Coyote history, he is hoping for a
call in the NFL Draft on April 26-28 in New York City.
“It would be a
dream come true,” he said.
The draft is a
definite possibility for Compton, who is considered among the country’s top offensive
prospects, with various prospect prognoses putting him in the 4-5 round area. If
those mock projections hold, he would become the first Coyote drafted since
Dave Elle (www.nfl.com/draft/history/fulldraft?teamId=3800&type=team), who was picked by the then Phoenix Cardinals (now Arizona Cardinals) in the 10th round (252nd pick) of
the 1990 draft. Elle prepped at Yankton High School and was a running back/tight end for the Coyotes. In 1986, two Coyotes were drafted Mike Slaton (defensive back, pick 232) in the ninth round by the Minnesota Vikings and Chul Schwanke (running back, pick 300) in the 11th round by the Los Angeles Rams (just ahead of Marcus Dupree of Oklahoma) .
In addition, it would put Compton roughly in the same area as former offensive lineman John Kohler, who was the highest Coyote ever drafted in the third round selection by Denver in the 1969.
In addition, it would put Compton roughly in the same area as former offensive lineman John Kohler, who was the highest Coyote ever drafted in the third round selection by Denver in the 1969.
While draft projections
keep guys like ESPN’s Todd McShay and Mel Kiper and NFL.com’s Mike Mayock busy
and fans intrigued, two-time All-American Compton remains committed to
continuing his development as a prospect. Persistent training and hard work
will help him continue his development as an NFL prospect, possibly attracting
the interest of a team.
“Staying after
it and continuing to get better every day with what you have done in your
career will be what shows teams what you have,” Compton said.
USD Associate Head
Coach and Offensive Coordinator Wesley Beschorner see good things ahead for his
senior offensive tackle. Beschorner has observed the growth of Compton from a
raw 250-pound freshman into a USD first-ever FCS first-team Associated Press
All-American.
“Tom is one of
the best and most balanced athletes ever in the Coyote football program,” said
Beschorner. “He gave everything he had, developed quickly, and started every
game of his career,” he said.
The Rosemount,
Minn., native began attracting NFL scouts while a junior, eventually earning an
invite to the East-West Shrine game following his senior campaign, when he led
USD to a 6-5 mark.
He excelled at the Shrine game and later become of 328
athletes in the nation to earn an invitation to the NFL Combine. He is also
most likely the first Coyote ever to participate at the combine.
With his
biggest audition for NFL teams at hand, Compton, on the advice of his agent
Joel Segal, flew to Florida on the December day he graduated from USD
(political science degree) to train with the former New England Patriots
strength and conditioning coach Tom Shaw.
Shaw, director
of Sports Performance Training based at the ESPN Word Wide of Sports Complex, has
a proven record of helping prepare athletes for the combine and pro days. He
has helped over 1,000 athletes, including eight NFL top draft picks, 130 first
round NFL picks and nine Super Bowl MVPs.
“It was a speed
training type deal where I was working on everything that would be covered at
the Combine. Once I got to NFL Combine week, I treated it like a game-day week
with preparing myself mentally and so on,” he said.
Like he has
done on so many Coyote game days, Compton shined at the Combine. He had a
40-yard dash of 5.11, fifth-best among offensive linemen. His 10-second split,
really a more worthy barometer for offensive lineman, was an amazing 1.69. He was eighth in the vertical jump (30
inches), third in the broad jump (nine feet), eighth in the 3-cone drill (7.59)
and sixth in the 20-yard shuttle (4.60). He earned top performers marks in the 40,
vertical, broad jump, 3-cone drill and 20-yard shuttle. After all was said and
done at the combine, he graded out at 68.2, which according to NFL.com places
him in a fourth round projection grouping.
“At the combine, you learn a lot of things,” said Compton,
who has been rated by NFLdraftscout.com at #14 of 217 offensive tackles and 168
overall. “You learn how to handle yourself, how football is a business and that
you need to treat it as such. I had a lot of meetings with teams, or basically a
job interview,” he said.
With Compton, NFL teams see a resume that includes Compton’s recognition as a three-time All-Great West
Conference selection, including first-team honors in 2010-11. He was named the
GWC Offensive Lineman of the Year, besides earning fourth-team All-American
honors from Phil Steele.
As he strives
for his NFL dream, Compton will stay focused on the task ahead. Yet, he also is
appreciative of the many people that have helped make this opportunity possible.
He noted his
brother, Nick, a former NDSU offensive lineman, as well as his parents, John
and Karen Compton as the core group of support. “They have been my biggest
supporters, always there for me,” he said.
After a
standout prep career at Rosemount High, Minn., he came to USD where he blossomed
as a tackle under the tutelage of Tony Spencer, a coach he credits for really
kicking up his development.
“He was always
my biggest supporter,” said Compton. “He told me as a freshman that I would be
playing in the NFL one day. He saw something in me and made sure that I moved
along in the right direction,”
said Compton, who started 43 straight games at South Dakota.
Compton also
sends out kudos to his offensive line mates, who become like brothers to him. “Guys
like Matt Porisch, Scott Slotten and Brent Johnson have always been there for
me,” he said.
He also recognizes that his experiences as a Coyote were
crucial in his growth as a player. Whether it was stirring moments like wins
over #1 Eastern Washington and Southern Utah, or character-building situations
such as losses to Cal-Davis and North Dakota, all of it defines who he has
become.
One of those moments - against Southern Utah earlier this
year - showed why he will go down as one of the greatest offensive linemen
turned out by the Coyote program.
“It was 4th
and one at the 50-yard line with a minute left,” said Beschorner. “I told him
we were going over him for a first down. He was ready. Tom just buried the guy,”
he said. “That really meant a lot to me,” said Compton.
“It gave me confidence. I knew from that point that we could take on anyone and
be successful. You always want to be in that situation, knowing that you can come
through when your team is counting on you.”
Lessons learned
happen both in wins and losses, noted Compton.
“When you lose
a heart-breaker, it really humbles you and translates to life where something
bad happens and you just have to rise above it and move on,” he said.
The experiences
and the people he has met will always make being a Coyote special.
“I am so proud
of having been part of the program in the transition,” he said. “We have come a
long way. And, moving forward, I know they will do great things.”
Big things are
also Beschorner’s expectation of his star offensive tackle. “He is a guy that
we always leaned on. He is a difference-maker.”
Now, he just
has to wait for the call on where that happens.
Monday, April 16, 2012
Hall of Fame Inductions Filled with Respect, Honor and the Power of Family
A lot goes through a person's mind on the way to the podium.
So, that I don't anger my Gettysburg friends or betray my Battlers roots, my hometown had a couple of hoops moments. In 1970, the Francis Zacher-led Battlers finished sixth in the State B tournament (24-4 record). It was an exciting team led by Kevin Hegerle, Larry Jones, Rob Tobin, Jim Van Den Eykel, Dave Langbehn and others. Then there was the 1975 team that finished eighth and included players such as Dean Hansen, Dave Miller, Junior Chase, among others. They were coached by Jim Thorson, now the Mount Marty men's coach.
For some reason in 1972, that Miller team caught my eye. I followed the exploits of Nissen, along with his cousin Kim Templeton and Jeff Wilbur, all brothers of former Rustler standouts. The newspapers, mostly the Huron and Aberdeen dailies, provided the information about the Rustlers week by week. This was before the Internet and before sports talk became popular on radio.
It was a season that opened with a come-from-behind win over the 1972 B Champions Britton (only loss of season) followed by a run of wins that never stopped that year en route to a 24-0 record. Coached by Bob Dokter, Miller was the smallest Class A school (Gettysburg was Class B as were the other Central Conference schools that year), and had to take on and defeat Mitchell and Huron in sectional play. As the state tournament arrived, this team revved up its engine. Devoid of size, the tallest player was 6-2, the fast and talented Rustlers pressured the ball all over the court, led by Nissen in his #35. Remember, this was a time when the three-point shot was not even on any planning boards for rules committees. Still, they prevailed and in impressive fashion.
At the state tourney, the Rustlers rolled past a big SF Washington team, 72-60. Then, they jumped to a 20-4 lead and dominated Rapid City Stevens, 81-51. In the title game, they took down Yankton, 68-54. The Yankton team included standout Mark Haugland and sophomore Chad Nelson, a 6-11 center, who later played at Drake University. In that season, Nissen was first-team all-state, all tournament and MVP of that state tournament.
Later, Nissen went to play for the Coyotes, becoming one of the best to ever run the point at USD. Nissen scored 1,452 points (10th all-time) and doled out 598 assists (third all-time), which ranked third and first, respectfully, when he left the Vermillion campus. He was inducted into the Coyote Sports Hall of Fame in 1996.
On Saturday, I heard Nissen, now of Rogers, Minn., recount the first 25 years of his life and how they were like a dream. Then, like a lot of young athletes, Nissen said, he had to move on with his life and find something else of which he could develop a passion. After a year of basketball in Europe and on a traveling U.S. Team, the two-time Academic All-American at USD entered medical school and has since practiced medicine in Minneapolis.
As he spoke and looked toward his family, emotions came pouring out. He didn't mention his professional life but talked about all that had helped him along his life's route. His wife, Nancy, began to cry and his three daughters also had tears falling from their eyes.
For those of us
either introducing or watching from a seat in the audience, it is hard to fully
fathom the gamut of emotions that Hall of Fame inductees experience as
they take to the mike to say thanks. From conversations I have had with various honorees, I have found them to be humbled, even as they have talked about preparing remarks for the recognition, whether written or simply by couching what they will say in their mind.
Regardless, whether tinged
with a bit of levity or cast in a serious tone, the words from the honorees
touch people's hearts - family, friends and those gathered at the event. The
message is often wrapped in bottled-up emotion of past sacrifice and hard work, not just
their own, coupled with the significance of the honor.
At the South
Dakota Sports Hall of Fame last weekend, I was among a couple of hundred people
who shed a couple of tears after listening to several men and women inductees
who have stepped high on the South Dakota, if not national, sports landscape.
In their measured words, they captured years of doing, battles fought and won
or lost, and a whole lot of life.
I have been
attached to the Coyote Sports Hall of Fame and now as a member of the South
Dakota Sports Hall of Fame. In all those ceremonies I have attended and helped
organize over the years, the one constant, regardless of the honoree's stage in
life, is how humbling these moments become for that person as they recognize the people who have played an important part in their
accomplishments and life.
When all the TDs,
baskets, races, and winning rallies, are accessed, support from family, friends,
coaches and others is the overriding quotient of any success. Therefore,
as the inductee talks about his/her life and the wonder years in sport or whatever,
they always focus remarks on their spouse, siblings, sons or daughters, grandparents, and
parents. They know that the sacrifice and giving, and love
of those people close, helped them reach the stage on this evening.
In those moments of thanking those closest, the emotions often cause an honoree's voice to break as words become hard to find; tears fall; all leading to a moment when they take a moment to compose themselves as they try to move on. It doesn't matter if an honoree has made 1,000 presentations (or one) as a CEO or as a sportscaster, or in some other measure, the moment eye contact is made with those close, the body is jolted with a rush of emotion, which can be both heartening and joyfully painful.
In those moments of thanking those closest, the emotions often cause an honoree's voice to break as words become hard to find; tears fall; all leading to a moment when they take a moment to compose themselves as they try to move on. It doesn't matter if an honoree has made 1,000 presentations (or one) as a CEO or as a sportscaster, or in some other measure, the moment eye contact is made with those close, the body is jolted with a rush of emotion, which can be both heartening and joyfully painful.
It isn't just the
honorees that feel this passion. Loving, prideful tears fill the room among
family members, friends and others gathered.
In the audience there are many, who sit in awe at what these honored few have accomplished both in sport and in life. They have little connection to the honoree, except maybe as a HOF committee member or someone that came to pay respects for what that honoree has done and meant to a community.
It was a special night for
me, connecting to a couple of my childhood heroes, while hearing unbelievable stories of the many
others whose contributions were rightly honored.
When I was 12
years old, Rick Nissen and the Miller Rustlers were living out their own
"Hoosiers" story. Here was Miller, a town of 2,100, battling some of the
larger towns across the state on a basketball floor and winning.
As they pieced
together one of the greatest seasons ever by a high school boys team, there
were kids like me (and older folks too) everywhere in South Dakota entranced with this team.
So, that I don't anger my Gettysburg friends or betray my Battlers roots, my hometown had a couple of hoops moments. In 1970, the Francis Zacher-led Battlers finished sixth in the State B tournament (24-4 record). It was an exciting team led by Kevin Hegerle, Larry Jones, Rob Tobin, Jim Van Den Eykel, Dave Langbehn and others. Then there was the 1975 team that finished eighth and included players such as Dean Hansen, Dave Miller, Junior Chase, among others. They were coached by Jim Thorson, now the Mount Marty men's coach.
For some reason in 1972, that Miller team caught my eye. I followed the exploits of Nissen, along with his cousin Kim Templeton and Jeff Wilbur, all brothers of former Rustler standouts. The newspapers, mostly the Huron and Aberdeen dailies, provided the information about the Rustlers week by week. This was before the Internet and before sports talk became popular on radio.
It was a season that opened with a come-from-behind win over the 1972 B Champions Britton (only loss of season) followed by a run of wins that never stopped that year en route to a 24-0 record. Coached by Bob Dokter, Miller was the smallest Class A school (Gettysburg was Class B as were the other Central Conference schools that year), and had to take on and defeat Mitchell and Huron in sectional play. As the state tournament arrived, this team revved up its engine. Devoid of size, the tallest player was 6-2, the fast and talented Rustlers pressured the ball all over the court, led by Nissen in his #35. Remember, this was a time when the three-point shot was not even on any planning boards for rules committees. Still, they prevailed and in impressive fashion.
At the state tourney, the Rustlers rolled past a big SF Washington team, 72-60. Then, they jumped to a 20-4 lead and dominated Rapid City Stevens, 81-51. In the title game, they took down Yankton, 68-54. The Yankton team included standout Mark Haugland and sophomore Chad Nelson, a 6-11 center, who later played at Drake University. In that season, Nissen was first-team all-state, all tournament and MVP of that state tournament.
Later, Nissen went to play for the Coyotes, becoming one of the best to ever run the point at USD. Nissen scored 1,452 points (10th all-time) and doled out 598 assists (third all-time), which ranked third and first, respectfully, when he left the Vermillion campus. He was inducted into the Coyote Sports Hall of Fame in 1996.
On Saturday, I heard Nissen, now of Rogers, Minn., recount the first 25 years of his life and how they were like a dream. Then, like a lot of young athletes, Nissen said, he had to move on with his life and find something else of which he could develop a passion. After a year of basketball in Europe and on a traveling U.S. Team, the two-time Academic All-American at USD entered medical school and has since practiced medicine in Minneapolis.
As he spoke and looked toward his family, emotions came pouring out. He didn't mention his professional life but talked about all that had helped him along his life's route. His wife, Nancy, began to cry and his three daughters also had tears falling from their eyes.
As he returned to
the table, an embrace with his wife spoke volumes about him and many other
honorees, who too, shared embraces with family and friends on this special night in Sioux Falls.
I also felt honored to watch the induction of Steve Brown, who starred at Hamlin High School and later South Dakota State University.
For me Brown was another boyhood favorite. One of the best shooters ever in SD prep circles, Brown is, at least for me, forever linked to Hamlin's run to the State B title in 1974. Of special memory was his 50-point game in the State B semifinals in 1974, a performance that set a state tournament record. One night later, Parker head coach Gayle Hoover took the air out of the ball. Brown, who averaged 33 points a game as a senior, was held in check but Hamlin defeated Parker, 36-33, to win the Class B title. One night he has 50 points himself and the next night, the championship, only 69 total points are scored. In his prep career, he was a three-time first-team all-state performer who had 2,212 points.
I also felt honored to watch the induction of Steve Brown, who starred at Hamlin High School and later South Dakota State University.
For me Brown was another boyhood favorite. One of the best shooters ever in SD prep circles, Brown is, at least for me, forever linked to Hamlin's run to the State B title in 1974. Of special memory was his 50-point game in the State B semifinals in 1974, a performance that set a state tournament record. One night later, Parker head coach Gayle Hoover took the air out of the ball. Brown, who averaged 33 points a game as a senior, was held in check but Hamlin defeated Parker, 36-33, to win the Class B title. One night he has 50 points himself and the next night, the championship, only 69 total points are scored. In his prep career, he was a three-time first-team all-state performer who had 2,212 points.
When Brown headed
to SDSU, he continued a standout basketball career, scoring 1,534 points, which was 2nd all-time at the school when he graduated. Brown was also a standout in baseball, earning NCC MVP honors as a senor. Later he was an assistant coach at SDSU, Dickinson State and Minnesota before taking the Michigan Tech head coaching job. Now, Brown, who with his wife Karen live in Chanhassen, Minn., is the director of the Minnesota Timberwolves/Lynx Basketball Academy.
On this night, Brown reached out to Nissen, saying he was glad that
he shared the HOF podium with him. Brown said he always respected him, first as a prep
player, and then for two years while he played at State and Nissen at the U.
They staged some battles on the court; but in these moments, they respectfully connected as
inductees, only a couple of tables apart.
While Brown and
Nissen caught my attention, so did the many other inductees, ranging from
Olympian Lincoln McIlravy to Dean Rallis talking about his former Washington High School teammate Dan
Dworsky. There was Billy Kampen talking about his father, Jim Kampen; and Galen Busch breaking down when discussed his opportunity to coach four daughters. There was a resilient Shari Keck talking about gymnastics and her friendship with Lolly Forseth. In addition, inductee Mark
Ekeland discussed Jackrabbit baseball and Diane Hiemstra Gabriel shared moments about Yankton girls basketball, which once ruled South Dakota prep circles.
Here are a few historical notes on the other HOF inductees --
~ Shari Keck who recently beat back a significant
health challenge (heart surgery to remove an aneurysm), was recognized for her outstanding career in gymnastics. A 1979 SDSU graduate from Rapid City Stevens, led the Raiders to state
gymnastics titles in 1994, 1995, 1997, 1998, 1999 and 2001. In 2006 Keck was
the National HS Athletic Coaches Association Special Sports Coach of the Year.
Keck, who with her husband Jim, have three children, once stated: "Excellence
is...caring more than others think is wise, risking more than others think is
safe, dreaming more than other think is practical, expecting more than others
think is possible."
~ Dean Rallis stepped in for his friend, Dworsky,
who started at Washington High and later at Michigan, because weather prevented him from attending the event. Rallis talked about how Dworsky started
four years and led the Wolverines had a 32-5 record. In his final two years, he
played for both Fritz Crisler in 1947 (9-0) and Benny Oosterbaan in 1948 (9-0)
as Michigan won the final 23 games of his his career. Named third team
All-American by the American Football Coaches Association in 1947, he called
signals at linebacker and also played center for the 1947 Wolverines, which
outscored opponents,
252-44, including a 49-0 shellacking of Southern California in the Rose Bowl. In 1948, Michigan was 10-0, outscoring foes, 394-53. However, Michigan did not play in the Rose Bowl in 1948 due to a Big Ten rule that prevented the same team from going to consecutive Rose Bowls. Rallis noted that Dworsky, later a brilliant architect who designed Crisler Area and many other facilities. hit so hard that those tackled by him would talk about hurting from the inside out rather than outside in.
252-44, including a 49-0 shellacking of Southern California in the Rose Bowl. In 1948, Michigan was 10-0, outscoring foes, 394-53. However, Michigan did not play in the Rose Bowl in 1948 due to a Big Ten rule that prevented the same team from going to consecutive Rose Bowls. Rallis noted that Dworsky, later a brilliant architect who designed Crisler Area and many other facilities. hit so hard that those tackled by him would talk about hurting from the inside out rather than outside in.
Galen Busch is a Huron HS and SDSU graduate who left a major imprint on prep volleyball in South Dakota. He is the first person from the sport of volleyball to be selected to the SD Sports Hall of Fame. Busch had a 617-305 record in 26 seasons, all at Todd County. His teams reached the state tournament 16 times, including three berths in the championship. His squad won the 1993 team title. Named the National High School Volleyball Coach of the Year, he and his wife Patti live in Mission. They have six children, four of which he coached.
~ Diane Hiemstra Gabriel was a four-time first-team all-state player for Bob Winter at Yankton. She led the Gazelles to three straight Class A titles from 1977-79. A Parade All-American, she participated in U.S. Olympic Trials in 1980 and 1984. At Colorado, she was second team All-Big Eight in 1983 and first team in 1984. She scored in double figures a school-record 50 consecutive games and finished with 1,377 points, which was second at Colorado when she left the program. She trailed only fellow Yankton teammate Lisa Van Goor, who had over 2,000 points and 1,000 rebounds as a Buffalo performer. While at Colorado, Hiemstra Gabriel was part of a South Dakota connection in Boulder. Besides Hiemstra and Van Goor, the 1982-83 starting lineup included Kris Holwerda of Brookings. And, the head coach was Sox Walseth, an Aberdeen, S.D., native who had a standout prep basketball career at Pierre,
earning all-state honors before graduating in 1944. Later, Walseth coached both the Buffaloes' men's and women's programs, a
unique coaching rarity.
~ Lincoln McIlravy, a Philip High School and University of Iowa graduate, ranks among the best wrestlers in state history. McIlravy won a freestyle bronze medal at 152 pounds at the 2000 Olympic Games in Sydney, Australia. He competed in the world championships three times, earning a bronze in 1998 and a silver medal in 1999. McIlravy won four straight U.S. Freestyle Nationals gold medals from 1997-2000. He had three World Cup gold medals from 1998-2000. At Iowa, McIlravy wrestled for legendary coach Dan Gable, winning three NCAA titles, finishing with a 96-3 record, which was the best winning percentage in Iowa's storied wrestling history. At Philip, he was a five-time state high school champion, accumulating an overall record of 225-25. A 2010 inductee of the National Wrestling Hall of Fame, he is a hotel owner/operator and developer in Solon, Iowa with his wife Lisa and three children.
~ Mark Ekeland, a Rapid City (Central) and Augustana graduate, had a 561-345-2 record in 20 seasons as head man at SDSU. His Jackrabbits won five NCC titles and qualified for the NCAA DII playoffs six times. In 1984, his SDSU team was 27-13, won the NCC playoffs, the Midwest Regional and advanced to the DII championships. That trip was SDSU's only trip to to the World Series. At Augustana, he lettered in football and baseball. The South Dakota Men's College Coach of the Year in 1994, he lives in Brookings with his wife Rebecca.
~ Jim Kampen, who helped Corona to two straight appearances in the Class B title game as a player, starred at Northern State, finished with 1,206 points. Kampen, who died young at age 51, was also standout cross country runner, who was a brilliant coach. He spent most of his college coaching career at the South Dakota School of Mines, coaching 13 seasons (1967-72 and 1978-86). He also coached basketball at Central Missouri, Carroll College and was a cross country and track coach at USD for two seasons before taking over coaching the Bahrain national basketball team in 1976. Named the South Dakota College Athlete of the Year in 1962, Kampen coached the three top scorers in SD Tech history.
~ Calvin Schuette, a Hecla native, gained fame as the "man who stopped Red Grange," while starring at the University of Minnesota. Before playing with the Gophers he played at Northern State and SDSU. In the game that Minnesota defeated Grange's Illinois team, 20-7, in 1924, Schutte had 32 carries for 282 yards and all three Gopher TDs. Named All-Big 10, he was also named to All-American squads. Later, he became known as "Mr. Santa Barbara of Sports," after 40 years as a coach and athletic director in California. At Santa Barbara High, he had a record of 173-45-12 in 23 seasons, leading the Dons to postseason play 18 times. He coached baseball great Eddie Mathews (Milwaukee/Atlanta Braves) and professional golfer Al Geiberger. Schutte, who died in 1970, also excelled in the ring, winning the first school boxing title at Minnesota.
Thursday, April 12, 2012
From Rocky Top to Computers Crashing, An NCAA BB Road Trip Has A Little Unusual Flavor To It
Road trips, whether to NCAA Tournaments, vacations, business trips or whatever, often turn up something bordering on the unusual.
Such was the case with my trip to the NCAA Women's Basketball Regional in Des Moines, Iowa, earlier this month.
The trip from Sioux Falls had started out ordinary - a 285 mile trip featuring a little Iowa landscape interspersed with some questionable driving from careless cell phone drivers and a quick stop for a sub sandwich. People on cell phones while driving are 21st century robots, without a clue about what is happening around them, and seemingly unaware that they weave from side to side. Imagine if you have a cell phone user under the influence of alcohol - talk about lethal.
Upon my arrival in Iowa's capitol city, the staff at the hotel did a bang up job and I had some good eats from Barrata's down the street.
Late that Thursday night, I finished replying to a couple of emails and Facebook messages and then closed the computer lid as I jumped up to grab a Dasani bottled water. Less than a minute later, with a rerun of the Big Bang Theory blaring away on the TV in my hotel room, I opened up my Toshiba laptop and the screen looked like some bug (big one at that) had made a kamikaze move, leaving a collage of colors and a crack down the center, one angling to the right.
At the same time, jumbled numbers and messages were spinning out of control. Feeling a bit unsettled, I hit the reboot button and thought "what the...?"
After restarting the computer, the spas-sing of technology continued, perhaps at a faster pace if that is possible. After a few choice words for the company that sold me this lemon, I hit the shutdown button, and whipped out my Blackberry to ease my Internet addiction.
As I pecked away on my cell, I was speechless about this computer mess. It was simply unfathomable that my computer had just gone rogue. I had simply closed the computer like I have done thousands of times over the years. No, I did not leave a pen or anything that would have caused the crack or bug mess. This was a new one in a long line of computer glitches. For the second time in two weeks my computer hard drive had gone haywire.
I had planned to use the computer at the NCAA Women's DI Basketball Regional. Now, plan B. Wait, I had left my other computer at home. So, a plan X was in order, that is finding another computer to use.
Well, I didn't have a lot of time to run to Best Buy and whine. In the morning, I eyed the computer, said a few unkind words, grabbed some breakfast and headed to Wells Fargo Arena for the off-day schedule, which included check-in, duties breakdown and press conferences for all four teams in the regional. I carried out plan X by gaining access to a Mac of a friend.
As the next four days rolled by, a few more odd things happened, but no reboot was necessary. It turned out to be an experience filled with memorable moments, some to treasure over time.
Rewinding on Regionals
This is the second time I have worked at a women's basketball regional in Des Moines.
Seventeen years ago, I experienced Georgia's run to the Final Four (1994-95 season). Head Coach Andy Landers, one of the top coaches in the game, had his third-seeded Bulldogs, playing at the top of their game. Led by the guard tandem of Kedra Holland and Saudia Roundtree, standout forward LaKeisha Frett and center Tracy Henderson, the Bulldogs defeated #7 seeded North Carolina, 98-79 in the semifinal. Then the #12 Bulldogs rallied from 10 points down as Holland scored 11 of her 15 points (three, three-point field goals) in the final 4:21 of regulation to upset #1 seeded and #2 ranked Colorado, 82-79. Directed by Coach Ceal Barry, Colorado brought a 25-game winning streak into the regional final as they finished 31-3. It was a team featuring standout guard Shelley Sheetz, 6-5 center Isabelle Fikalkowski and shooting guard DeCelle Thomas.
Over the years, I have been lucky to meet people (Mike Mahon, Colin McDonough, Rob Anderson and others) that connected the dots to make it possible for me to work at these events. The opportunity of sitting court side, working with area, local and national media, interacting with colleagues, and meeting top players and coaches never grows old.
I'll never forget when Jimmy King and Ray Jackson (two of Michigan's Fab 5) stopped by the media room at the Wichita regional (1994) in the Kansas Coliseum to ask me when I was doing. The ensuing 15-minute discussion ranged from basketball to Wichita to game notes. Yes, they had a few good-natured suggestions.
Jackson and King were part of what was the then Michigan's Fab 4 (Jalen Rose, Juwan Howard) as 1994 was the year after the Wolverines two-time run (1992, 1993) to the Final Four. The run included advancing to the 1993 title game which ended in misery following Chris Weber's memorable timeout call after the Wolverines were out of TOs in a 77-71 loss to North Carolina. Webber left the Wolverines program after that sophomore season and the other four stayed, leading Michigan to the NCAA Tournament. In the first/second round games at Wichita, King and Jackson helped orchestrate Michigan to wins over Pepperdine, 78-74, and Texas (BJ Tyler, Albert Burditt, Terrence Rencher). 84-79. They advanced to the regional final in Dallas where they lost to Midwest Region #1 seed Arkansas (Head Coach Nolan Richardson and players, Scott Thurman, Corliss Williamson), 76-68.
There have been numerous discussions with coaches, media types (Bob Ryan of the Boston Globe, Van Earl Wright of then CNN, a few ESPN dudes and others), and a few players (Georgia Tech's Jon Barry) at other regionals, but those two Michigan guys sat down and genuinely seemed interested in what I was doing. Most likely, they were bored.
Organization
Today everything is more organized and players rarely go about their own way. Handlers and the like prevent interaction between volunteers and players from occurring. It is likely a good thing but they are missing a rare opportunity to interact with some unique personalities (yes like me).
One of the constants in these tourneys is the organizational efforts orchestrated by host universities and city sports authority groups. From scheduling hotels for teams and fans, making sure the meals are taken care, practices times are met, and more, it all takes a a big effort. An army of unpaid volunteers supplements those paid individuals tasked with carrying this event off.
My job has always revolved around media relations work, ranging from quote taking to handling game notes, photo coordination, serving as a moderator and a locker room liaison. All those tasks obviously varied in duty but always provided some new experience or interaction.
Can't Miss Opportunity
A week before heading to Des Moines, I had expected to work the men's regional at Omaha. However, I picked up the worst flu I have had in years, which caused me to miss that tournament, and you know, one the biggest upsets ever when #2 Missouri was stunned by #15 seed Norfolk State. Booyah!
So, I wasn't about to miss the opportunity to see one of the most unique players in women's basketball history in Baylor's 6-8 center Brittney Griner, as well as observe Tennessee's Pat Summitt, a coach I have long admired and one that deserves credit for pioneering women's basketball in a high profile sport. With eight championships and a 1,098 wins, the coach had her Tennessee team fighting for another Final Four berth even as she continued her battle with early-onset dementia. Plus, Baylor entered the tournament unbeaten in search of the first 40-0 season in NCAA DI history by either a men's or women's DI team.
As the pressers unfolded on that Friday, Kansas's head coach Bonnie Henrichsen showed her unquestioned appreciation for Summitt while focusing comments about her team's readiness to meet Tennessee. Kansas, led by the dynamic Angel Goodrich, had lost its best player early in the season but rebounded, upsetting #3 seed Delaware and All American forward Elena Delle Donne in the second round. Georgia Tech's MaChelle Thomas talked about how her young team had grown and might be ready to throw a surprise against Baylor. Anything can happen, she suggested. Baylor's Kim Mulkey talked about how her unbeaten team liked the favorites' role, accepting the expectation of winning.
What you didn't see was Summitt at the mike. Due to her health condition, it was deemed in her best interest not to talk at pressers, due to the memory lapses that come with early-onset dementia (as well as other factors). Associate head coach Holly Warlick took over the press duties. She talked about how Tennessee players (and coaches) have continued Tennessee's tradition of winning this season, even as they respectfully dealt with the delicate situation of their legendary head coach.
Semifinal Saturday
On game-day Saturday, before the opener of Tennessee and Kansas, I was trying to get things in place before a noon start to hoops. Rushing back to the arena floor with a different printer cord, I had to stop and wait for Summitt and her Tennessee Lady Vols to make their entrance into the arena with opening tip just a couple of minutes away.
In that moment, I caught a glimpse of basketball that many people don't see. In those moments before they take the floor, you hear teams voice a little passion, use that uniquely player jargon, and whistle tunes like "Rocky Top," as anxious players and coaches release a few stress-filled breaths. With their hoods up in honor of the late Trayvon Martin, they gather together, belt out a few motivating yells and head to the floor where supporters and others welcome them with fist-waving cheers and uniquely Tennessee sounds. I could feel a rush of adrenaline go through my body.
A minute later, I was seated in the press row behind the Lady Vols bench where I still felt that rush of emotion stirred by the environment and passion for basketball in that arena.
As the games roll on, NCAA contests are filled with rallies, shifting momentum, great plays and a lot of passion. In Des Moines, I also felt the community's pride for the event as nearly 18,000 people (about 9K per game) filled Wells Fargo in the two sessions. It was easily the biggest crowd totals of any regional in the country (by at least double). It reminded me of the passion felt in Sioux Falls during the Summit League Tourney. Must be something in the Midwest's water or makeup, because they show their support in a big way.
Game-Time
After a horrible start to the semifinal, Summitt's Lady Vols rally from a 14-point first half deficit against Kansas to post an 84-73 win, despite 23 points from talented KU's Goodrich. Tennessee guard Meighan Simmons scores 22 points to lead the Lady Vols. In the second semifinal, Baylor has little trouble with the ACC's Georgia Tech, seeded #4 in the tournament, by rolling to an 83-68 win. However, Georgia Tech unveils a talented freshman in Sydney Wallace, who scores 32 points, including 8-of-12 from three-point range. Griner is a force with 35 points, 10 rebounds and six blocks as the Lady Bears have a 54-16 advantage in the paint.
Baylor and Tennessee
During the off-day on Sunday, press conferences take up a little time but not all. A trip to an Italian restaurant provides some good eats. The next day lunch takes me with a couple of colleagues to a Des Moines' dive, Kelly's Diner, which offers up the largest pork loin sandwich I have ever seen. Plus, the door leading into the business has a sign - "No Weapons Allowed." Unusual maybe - interesting absolutely. (Note - the place's bathroom reminds me of a drive-in/fast food stopover in Manilla, Iowa, which I thought was the smallest rest area in the world).
As the championship day unfolds, there is a lot of orange and green in elevators and the hotel lobby as well as sidewalk leading to the arena which is only a block away. On my way over to the arena, I meet a retired former special forces Army chaplain (yes, a guy who jumped from planes) supporting Baylor in his green cowboy boots and pipe. I see interaction between Tennessee and Baylor faithful and it is respectful. I meet a North Dakota native now living in Tennessee, having become a big-time Lady Vols fan. I also interact with Tennessee star forward Shekinna Stricklen's family, getting a taste for the passion they feel about the Lady Vols. Each dons her uniform number in Tennessee gear. Some are a little perturbed that Tennessee has to face Baylor in the regional final, hoping that it could help in the Final Four. They talk at length about Summitt and how great the team is playing, even though I think they know the run ends later that night.
A bit more prepared, I am in the arena 65 minutes prior to the start of the 6 p.m. game. After a little media food, I have a bottled water, which must be poured into a cup per NCAA rules, and my computer and printer ready to go for game notes.
I watch security redirect a Tennessee fan with a video camera to where he can leave his device as CBS rules prohibit video footage being shot in the area behind the bench. As I look up, there is a bird in the arena, capturing the attention of a lot of fans and a number of arena officials. One guy beside me asks, "How does a bird get into this place?" Valid question.
Soon, the Tennessee band is playing a little "Rocky Top" as Tennessee comes onto the floor with Pat Summitt surrounded by coaches and staff. The Baylor group, led by Griner, hits the floor, and you feel a lean toward Tennessee by fans in the arena. A few moments later Summitt and Mulkey meet and share a hug at midcourt.
Stricklen knocks down a three-point shot for an early 9-4 lead for the Lady Vols. The Tennessee section is going nuts, even as they harp about officiating and Griner.
A few calls go against Tennessee and the Lady Bears take advantage. This Baylor team, which will later win a national title in a 40-0 season, end the half on a 31-9 run for a 35-20 lead. Tennessee, behind Stricklen's 22 points and 11 rebounds and Glory Johnson's 19 points and 14 rebounds could not crawl any closer than eight points in the second half.
The Lady Bears are led by sophomore point guard Odyssey Sims' 27 points, including 5-of-8 from three-point range, and Kemetria Hayden's 18 points (3-of-3 from deep), plus Griner's 23 points, 15 rebounds and nine blocks. Inside and outside, Baylor dominates the Lady Vols.
No Buzzer Beater But Dunk, Scuffle and Setting Memorable
The three games of this tournament did not provide that memorable last-second shot. It did provide a few memorable moments, including Griner's two-handed slam dunk on a break during the Georgia Tech game. It is a highlight clip that became a favorite for ESPN in packages on Sportscenter as well as a build-up for the Final Four.
You recall that tense moment when Stricklen and Sims go down in a heap and a scuffle erupts in the final minutes of the regional final. The interaction draws players from both teams off the bench. Three Baylor players (Griner, Terra Conrey and Jordan Madden) are ejected, and a double technical foul is called on Sims and Stricklen. A second technical should have been blown on Baylor but it was missed. And, the two players from Tennessee that left the bench are not reprimanded. So, maybe everything worked out in the end, even if the officials were a bit off their game on the night.
As the ejected Baylor players leave the arena , the speculation raged for a few moments about their eligibility for the Final Four, as well as if they could participate in the region championship presentation that night. Soon, the NCAA announces to tournament officials and media that they can join the post-game party. And, yes, they are eligible for the Final Four.
As I frantically finished up the game notes, I couldn't help but take in the environment, reflecting on what I witnessed. As Summitt leaves the floor, entourage in tow, I wondered if this game was it for her. Two victories shy of 1,100, will she will be back to get those two wins and then hand the reigns full-time to Warlick? Or,will she try and coach again? Is this the end of Summitt's remarkable career in basketball? That question still remains unanswered.
As for Griner, I was amazed by how big, athletic and dominating she was and is. Named tourney MOP, she accumulated 58 points, 25 rebounds and 15 blocked shots in two games. She completely dominated the lane against both Georgia Tech and Tennessee. Until you see the Baylor center in person, it is hard to appreciate how good she is. A team-oriented player who can shoot, rebound and run, she seems to be a fun-loving sort. In post-game pressers, Griner takes on the team leader role, thanking her teammates and saying that she wouldn't be able to do what she does without them.
I have a tremendous respect for Griner, even as she deals with those callous remarks about her gender and other irresponsible takes. A junior, she has been selected the AP Player of the Year, deservedly so. With graduation claiming only one senior, Baylor will be the pre-season #1 even if the program has a few probation things to deal with after an NCAA and Baylor investigation turned up major violations.
Post Game
As I left the gym, I saw those Tennessee supporters again and talked hoops for about an hour. We discussed Summitt, Stricklen's WNBA possibilities and whether it was right that Tennessee was placed in Baylor's region.
As I left the group and bid adieu, I hit the bed thinking that there was a lot to like about this trip.
I love to see basketball live and to experience the win and advance environment of the NCAAs. And, I believe the magic of the tournament is the unknown which fosters something unexpected, or unusual, every time they lace 'em up.
Such was the case with my trip to the NCAA Women's Basketball Regional in Des Moines, Iowa, earlier this month.
The trip from Sioux Falls had started out ordinary - a 285 mile trip featuring a little Iowa landscape interspersed with some questionable driving from careless cell phone drivers and a quick stop for a sub sandwich. People on cell phones while driving are 21st century robots, without a clue about what is happening around them, and seemingly unaware that they weave from side to side. Imagine if you have a cell phone user under the influence of alcohol - talk about lethal.
Upon my arrival in Iowa's capitol city, the staff at the hotel did a bang up job and I had some good eats from Barrata's down the street.
Late that Thursday night, I finished replying to a couple of emails and Facebook messages and then closed the computer lid as I jumped up to grab a Dasani bottled water. Less than a minute later, with a rerun of the Big Bang Theory blaring away on the TV in my hotel room, I opened up my Toshiba laptop and the screen looked like some bug (big one at that) had made a kamikaze move, leaving a collage of colors and a crack down the center, one angling to the right.
At the same time, jumbled numbers and messages were spinning out of control. Feeling a bit unsettled, I hit the reboot button and thought "what the...?"
After restarting the computer, the spas-sing of technology continued, perhaps at a faster pace if that is possible. After a few choice words for the company that sold me this lemon, I hit the shutdown button, and whipped out my Blackberry to ease my Internet addiction.
As I pecked away on my cell, I was speechless about this computer mess. It was simply unfathomable that my computer had just gone rogue. I had simply closed the computer like I have done thousands of times over the years. No, I did not leave a pen or anything that would have caused the crack or bug mess. This was a new one in a long line of computer glitches. For the second time in two weeks my computer hard drive had gone haywire.
I had planned to use the computer at the NCAA Women's DI Basketball Regional. Now, plan B. Wait, I had left my other computer at home. So, a plan X was in order, that is finding another computer to use.
Well, I didn't have a lot of time to run to Best Buy and whine. In the morning, I eyed the computer, said a few unkind words, grabbed some breakfast and headed to Wells Fargo Arena for the off-day schedule, which included check-in, duties breakdown and press conferences for all four teams in the regional. I carried out plan X by gaining access to a Mac of a friend.
As the next four days rolled by, a few more odd things happened, but no reboot was necessary. It turned out to be an experience filled with memorable moments, some to treasure over time.
Rewinding on Regionals
This is the second time I have worked at a women's basketball regional in Des Moines.
Seventeen years ago, I experienced Georgia's run to the Final Four (1994-95 season). Head Coach Andy Landers, one of the top coaches in the game, had his third-seeded Bulldogs, playing at the top of their game. Led by the guard tandem of Kedra Holland and Saudia Roundtree, standout forward LaKeisha Frett and center Tracy Henderson, the Bulldogs defeated #7 seeded North Carolina, 98-79 in the semifinal. Then the #12 Bulldogs rallied from 10 points down as Holland scored 11 of her 15 points (three, three-point field goals) in the final 4:21 of regulation to upset #1 seeded and #2 ranked Colorado, 82-79. Directed by Coach Ceal Barry, Colorado brought a 25-game winning streak into the regional final as they finished 31-3. It was a team featuring standout guard Shelley Sheetz, 6-5 center Isabelle Fikalkowski and shooting guard DeCelle Thomas.
Over the years, I have been lucky to meet people (Mike Mahon, Colin McDonough, Rob Anderson and others) that connected the dots to make it possible for me to work at these events. The opportunity of sitting court side, working with area, local and national media, interacting with colleagues, and meeting top players and coaches never grows old.
I'll never forget when Jimmy King and Ray Jackson (two of Michigan's Fab 5) stopped by the media room at the Wichita regional (1994) in the Kansas Coliseum to ask me when I was doing. The ensuing 15-minute discussion ranged from basketball to Wichita to game notes. Yes, they had a few good-natured suggestions.
Jackson and King were part of what was the then Michigan's Fab 4 (Jalen Rose, Juwan Howard) as 1994 was the year after the Wolverines two-time run (1992, 1993) to the Final Four. The run included advancing to the 1993 title game which ended in misery following Chris Weber's memorable timeout call after the Wolverines were out of TOs in a 77-71 loss to North Carolina. Webber left the Wolverines program after that sophomore season and the other four stayed, leading Michigan to the NCAA Tournament. In the first/second round games at Wichita, King and Jackson helped orchestrate Michigan to wins over Pepperdine, 78-74, and Texas (BJ Tyler, Albert Burditt, Terrence Rencher). 84-79. They advanced to the regional final in Dallas where they lost to Midwest Region #1 seed Arkansas (Head Coach Nolan Richardson and players, Scott Thurman, Corliss Williamson), 76-68.
There have been numerous discussions with coaches, media types (Bob Ryan of the Boston Globe, Van Earl Wright of then CNN, a few ESPN dudes and others), and a few players (Georgia Tech's Jon Barry) at other regionals, but those two Michigan guys sat down and genuinely seemed interested in what I was doing. Most likely, they were bored.
Organization
Today everything is more organized and players rarely go about their own way. Handlers and the like prevent interaction between volunteers and players from occurring. It is likely a good thing but they are missing a rare opportunity to interact with some unique personalities (yes like me).
One of the constants in these tourneys is the organizational efforts orchestrated by host universities and city sports authority groups. From scheduling hotels for teams and fans, making sure the meals are taken care, practices times are met, and more, it all takes a a big effort. An army of unpaid volunteers supplements those paid individuals tasked with carrying this event off.
My job has always revolved around media relations work, ranging from quote taking to handling game notes, photo coordination, serving as a moderator and a locker room liaison. All those tasks obviously varied in duty but always provided some new experience or interaction.
Can't Miss Opportunity
A week before heading to Des Moines, I had expected to work the men's regional at Omaha. However, I picked up the worst flu I have had in years, which caused me to miss that tournament, and you know, one the biggest upsets ever when #2 Missouri was stunned by #15 seed Norfolk State. Booyah!
So, I wasn't about to miss the opportunity to see one of the most unique players in women's basketball history in Baylor's 6-8 center Brittney Griner, as well as observe Tennessee's Pat Summitt, a coach I have long admired and one that deserves credit for pioneering women's basketball in a high profile sport. With eight championships and a 1,098 wins, the coach had her Tennessee team fighting for another Final Four berth even as she continued her battle with early-onset dementia. Plus, Baylor entered the tournament unbeaten in search of the first 40-0 season in NCAA DI history by either a men's or women's DI team.
As the pressers unfolded on that Friday, Kansas's head coach Bonnie Henrichsen showed her unquestioned appreciation for Summitt while focusing comments about her team's readiness to meet Tennessee. Kansas, led by the dynamic Angel Goodrich, had lost its best player early in the season but rebounded, upsetting #3 seed Delaware and All American forward Elena Delle Donne in the second round. Georgia Tech's MaChelle Thomas talked about how her young team had grown and might be ready to throw a surprise against Baylor. Anything can happen, she suggested. Baylor's Kim Mulkey talked about how her unbeaten team liked the favorites' role, accepting the expectation of winning.
What you didn't see was Summitt at the mike. Due to her health condition, it was deemed in her best interest not to talk at pressers, due to the memory lapses that come with early-onset dementia (as well as other factors). Associate head coach Holly Warlick took over the press duties. She talked about how Tennessee players (and coaches) have continued Tennessee's tradition of winning this season, even as they respectfully dealt with the delicate situation of their legendary head coach.
Semifinal Saturday
On game-day Saturday, before the opener of Tennessee and Kansas, I was trying to get things in place before a noon start to hoops. Rushing back to the arena floor with a different printer cord, I had to stop and wait for Summitt and her Tennessee Lady Vols to make their entrance into the arena with opening tip just a couple of minutes away.
In that moment, I caught a glimpse of basketball that many people don't see. In those moments before they take the floor, you hear teams voice a little passion, use that uniquely player jargon, and whistle tunes like "Rocky Top," as anxious players and coaches release a few stress-filled breaths. With their hoods up in honor of the late Trayvon Martin, they gather together, belt out a few motivating yells and head to the floor where supporters and others welcome them with fist-waving cheers and uniquely Tennessee sounds. I could feel a rush of adrenaline go through my body.
A minute later, I was seated in the press row behind the Lady Vols bench where I still felt that rush of emotion stirred by the environment and passion for basketball in that arena.
As the games roll on, NCAA contests are filled with rallies, shifting momentum, great plays and a lot of passion. In Des Moines, I also felt the community's pride for the event as nearly 18,000 people (about 9K per game) filled Wells Fargo in the two sessions. It was easily the biggest crowd totals of any regional in the country (by at least double). It reminded me of the passion felt in Sioux Falls during the Summit League Tourney. Must be something in the Midwest's water or makeup, because they show their support in a big way.
Game-Time
After a horrible start to the semifinal, Summitt's Lady Vols rally from a 14-point first half deficit against Kansas to post an 84-73 win, despite 23 points from talented KU's Goodrich. Tennessee guard Meighan Simmons scores 22 points to lead the Lady Vols. In the second semifinal, Baylor has little trouble with the ACC's Georgia Tech, seeded #4 in the tournament, by rolling to an 83-68 win. However, Georgia Tech unveils a talented freshman in Sydney Wallace, who scores 32 points, including 8-of-12 from three-point range. Griner is a force with 35 points, 10 rebounds and six blocks as the Lady Bears have a 54-16 advantage in the paint.
Baylor and Tennessee
During the off-day on Sunday, press conferences take up a little time but not all. A trip to an Italian restaurant provides some good eats. The next day lunch takes me with a couple of colleagues to a Des Moines' dive, Kelly's Diner, which offers up the largest pork loin sandwich I have ever seen. Plus, the door leading into the business has a sign - "No Weapons Allowed." Unusual maybe - interesting absolutely. (Note - the place's bathroom reminds me of a drive-in/fast food stopover in Manilla, Iowa, which I thought was the smallest rest area in the world).
As the championship day unfolds, there is a lot of orange and green in elevators and the hotel lobby as well as sidewalk leading to the arena which is only a block away. On my way over to the arena, I meet a retired former special forces Army chaplain (yes, a guy who jumped from planes) supporting Baylor in his green cowboy boots and pipe. I see interaction between Tennessee and Baylor faithful and it is respectful. I meet a North Dakota native now living in Tennessee, having become a big-time Lady Vols fan. I also interact with Tennessee star forward Shekinna Stricklen's family, getting a taste for the passion they feel about the Lady Vols. Each dons her uniform number in Tennessee gear. Some are a little perturbed that Tennessee has to face Baylor in the regional final, hoping that it could help in the Final Four. They talk at length about Summitt and how great the team is playing, even though I think they know the run ends later that night.
A bit more prepared, I am in the arena 65 minutes prior to the start of the 6 p.m. game. After a little media food, I have a bottled water, which must be poured into a cup per NCAA rules, and my computer and printer ready to go for game notes.
I watch security redirect a Tennessee fan with a video camera to where he can leave his device as CBS rules prohibit video footage being shot in the area behind the bench. As I look up, there is a bird in the arena, capturing the attention of a lot of fans and a number of arena officials. One guy beside me asks, "How does a bird get into this place?" Valid question.
Soon, the Tennessee band is playing a little "Rocky Top" as Tennessee comes onto the floor with Pat Summitt surrounded by coaches and staff. The Baylor group, led by Griner, hits the floor, and you feel a lean toward Tennessee by fans in the arena. A few moments later Summitt and Mulkey meet and share a hug at midcourt.
Stricklen knocks down a three-point shot for an early 9-4 lead for the Lady Vols. The Tennessee section is going nuts, even as they harp about officiating and Griner.
A few calls go against Tennessee and the Lady Bears take advantage. This Baylor team, which will later win a national title in a 40-0 season, end the half on a 31-9 run for a 35-20 lead. Tennessee, behind Stricklen's 22 points and 11 rebounds and Glory Johnson's 19 points and 14 rebounds could not crawl any closer than eight points in the second half.
The Lady Bears are led by sophomore point guard Odyssey Sims' 27 points, including 5-of-8 from three-point range, and Kemetria Hayden's 18 points (3-of-3 from deep), plus Griner's 23 points, 15 rebounds and nine blocks. Inside and outside, Baylor dominates the Lady Vols.
No Buzzer Beater But Dunk, Scuffle and Setting Memorable
The three games of this tournament did not provide that memorable last-second shot. It did provide a few memorable moments, including Griner's two-handed slam dunk on a break during the Georgia Tech game. It is a highlight clip that became a favorite for ESPN in packages on Sportscenter as well as a build-up for the Final Four.
You recall that tense moment when Stricklen and Sims go down in a heap and a scuffle erupts in the final minutes of the regional final. The interaction draws players from both teams off the bench. Three Baylor players (Griner, Terra Conrey and Jordan Madden) are ejected, and a double technical foul is called on Sims and Stricklen. A second technical should have been blown on Baylor but it was missed. And, the two players from Tennessee that left the bench are not reprimanded. So, maybe everything worked out in the end, even if the officials were a bit off their game on the night.
As the ejected Baylor players leave the arena , the speculation raged for a few moments about their eligibility for the Final Four, as well as if they could participate in the region championship presentation that night. Soon, the NCAA announces to tournament officials and media that they can join the post-game party. And, yes, they are eligible for the Final Four.
As I frantically finished up the game notes, I couldn't help but take in the environment, reflecting on what I witnessed. As Summitt leaves the floor, entourage in tow, I wondered if this game was it for her. Two victories shy of 1,100, will she will be back to get those two wins and then hand the reigns full-time to Warlick? Or,will she try and coach again? Is this the end of Summitt's remarkable career in basketball? That question still remains unanswered.
As for Griner, I was amazed by how big, athletic and dominating she was and is. Named tourney MOP, she accumulated 58 points, 25 rebounds and 15 blocked shots in two games. She completely dominated the lane against both Georgia Tech and Tennessee. Until you see the Baylor center in person, it is hard to appreciate how good she is. A team-oriented player who can shoot, rebound and run, she seems to be a fun-loving sort. In post-game pressers, Griner takes on the team leader role, thanking her teammates and saying that she wouldn't be able to do what she does without them.
I have a tremendous respect for Griner, even as she deals with those callous remarks about her gender and other irresponsible takes. A junior, she has been selected the AP Player of the Year, deservedly so. With graduation claiming only one senior, Baylor will be the pre-season #1 even if the program has a few probation things to deal with after an NCAA and Baylor investigation turned up major violations.
Post Game
As I left the gym, I saw those Tennessee supporters again and talked hoops for about an hour. We discussed Summitt, Stricklen's WNBA possibilities and whether it was right that Tennessee was placed in Baylor's region.
As I left the group and bid adieu, I hit the bed thinking that there was a lot to like about this trip.
I love to see basketball live and to experience the win and advance environment of the NCAAs. And, I believe the magic of the tournament is the unknown which fosters something unexpected, or unusual, every time they lace 'em up.
Friday, April 6, 2012
Opening Day Was Wonderful for Tigers Fans
"Baseball is not a conventional industry. It belong neither to the players nor management, but to all of us. It is our national pastime, our national symbol, and our national treasure."
-- John Thorn, Baseball: Our Game.
It doesn't matter how a team finished last year, or for that matter the last 10 years, when opening day arrives every spring, baseball fans get downright giddy and excited about the return of the national pastime.
Whether it is the Tigers, Twins, Royals, Yankees, Phillies, Cardinals or whatever team, the feeling is the same. The return of baseball brings hope for a winning campaign and maybe, just maybe, a World Series championship.
"You look forward to it like a birthday party when you're a kid. You think something wonderful is going to happen," said Yankees Hall of Fame outfielder Joe DiMaggio of opening day.
'Joltin' Joe got it right, mostly.
I believe wonderful things happen in this game, every time it is played, especially on those magical opening days every April. To me, though, the wonder of baseball is in its mysterious nature. The only predictable part of the game is that it is unpredictable.
I cherish the start (and sometimes the end) of every baseball season and have since I was playing baseball with my brothers and cousins on a make-shift baseball field between a barn, chicken coop and a large storage shed on a ranch in central South Dakota. From those early playing days on the plains, to watching my first major league game in old Met Stadium, to coaching a little, my passion for baseball has continued to grow.
Writer George V. Higgins wrote in The Progress of the Seasons: "The seductiveness of baseball is that almost everyone with an abiding interest in it knows exactly how it should be played. And secretly believes that he could do it, if only God had seen fit to make him just a little bit less clumsy."
Clumsy or not when I see a baseball laying in a field or in a plastic bucket or wherever, I want to grab it and go out and play some catch. I want to hear the pop of the glove, the crack of the bat and a few hoots about one's playing ability.
So, when baseball opened this week (I don't include the games in Japan), I felt an adrenaline rush several days (actually weeks) prior to Thursday, April 5. For me, "Opening Day" at Comerica Park had the right conclusion as the Tigers had a rousing time with 45,027 fans going nuts in a 3-2 walk-off win over the Red Sox. It was Detroit's first walk-off win since the 1921 season when the great Harry Heilman had the game-winning hit.
As the day began, it was fitting that Detroit's Hall of Fame outfielder Al Kaline threw out the first pitch on his 60th anniversary with the Tigers. Kaline, who is referred to as Mr. Tiger, is Detroit's most beloved Tiger. The classy Kaline, who played his entire career in the Motor City, still works as a special assistant to Tigers GM Dave Dombroski and mentors outfielders every spring training.
One of my dreams is to someday meet Kaline, perhaps while attending opening day at Comerica. Maybe it will happen, who knows what happen. I mean, I did spend a week at old Tiger Stadium before it was put to bed.
Until then I will continue to watch the opening show of baseball on the tube, on the Internet, or by listening to the sweet sound of broadcasts over the radio.
Opening day was indeed a big hit for Tigers' fans, who watched ace Justin Verlander unleash a dominating performance against one of the most feared lineups in baseball. Verlander, who threw a strike on his first three pitches, tossed 105 pitches with 66 strikes in eight innings of work. Against Boston, he recorded seven strikeouts with just one walk. Verlander could have easily finished the game and earned another win; but closer Jose Valverde, who was perfect a year ago in saves opportunities, was ready and raring to go. Well, he was ready, maybe too ready. His pitches weren't sharp and the flamboyant Valverde's perfect run of saves ended in the first outing of 2012.
Regardless, the Tigers picked up Valverde with a ninth-inning tally and the world was able to witness Verlander at the top of his game. He is one of those pitchers like Philadelphia's Roy Halladay and Los Angeles' Clayton Kershaw, who are a joy to behold. While the lanky righthander from Old Dominion University (Virgina) had his fifth straight opening day start without a win, he remains one of the game's best (I think the best).
Verlander, 29, has a 100 MPH-plus fastball and a devastating curve. He was named the Cy Young Award winner and MVP a year ago, following his 24-5 campaign, which included a 2.40 ERA in 34 starts with four complete games and two shutouts. He recorded 250 strikeouts in 251 innings, finishing with a 0.920 WHIP. In the last three seasons, he has had 61 wins, 19 losses and 809 combined strikeouts. Verlander, who seems on his way to the Hall of Fame, has rolled up a 107-57 career record with 1,222 strikeouts and four all-star berths.
While he may not win 24 games this year (but 22 likely), he will be dominate and will catch my eye every time he toes the rubber. Know this, as important as he is to the Tigers, this Detroit team is much more than Justin V. They have a solid starting staff and a tough bullpen. And, they have a powerful lineup led by arguably the game's best hitter in Miguel Cabrera (.344 BA, 30 HRs, 105 RBI, 108 BB, a year ago) and Prince Fielder, who simply cashes in 30 HRs and 100 RBIs year in and year out.
Yet on Thursday, the game's exciting conclusion wasn't about Cabrera or Fielder, or even Verlander. Instead, center fielder Austin Jackson, who had a shaky sophomore season in 2011, had the game-winning walk-off single in a 3-of-5 day that included a triple. He had hits on the first and last pitch of the game, which hasn't been done by a Tigers player since Gary Pettis on July 29, 1989. Also, steady shortstop Jhonny Peralta was 3-of-3 with a run scored and catcher Alex Avila had two hits, including a double and one RBI. All-in-all, it was a nice win.
You see, that is the thing about opening day, winning is paramount. A victory on opening day continues the belief, for the thousands upon thousands of fans, that this "will be the year."
I sincerely hope Jayson Stark of ESPN is right about the Tigers winning it all. All this preseason hype about how they will dominate the Central is fun reading but now the work begins and reality is sometimes a tough cookie to digest.
Detroit will be tested. I think the Tigers win 94 and meet the Yanks in the playoffs again, this time for a berth in the World Series.
Who advances? Let's unveil that in another blog on another day.
Hint: the World Series won't be played in the Big Apple.
-- John Thorn, Baseball: Our Game.
It doesn't matter how a team finished last year, or for that matter the last 10 years, when opening day arrives every spring, baseball fans get downright giddy and excited about the return of the national pastime.
Whether it is the Tigers, Twins, Royals, Yankees, Phillies, Cardinals or whatever team, the feeling is the same. The return of baseball brings hope for a winning campaign and maybe, just maybe, a World Series championship.
"You look forward to it like a birthday party when you're a kid. You think something wonderful is going to happen," said Yankees Hall of Fame outfielder Joe DiMaggio of opening day.
'Joltin' Joe got it right, mostly.
I believe wonderful things happen in this game, every time it is played, especially on those magical opening days every April. To me, though, the wonder of baseball is in its mysterious nature. The only predictable part of the game is that it is unpredictable.
I cherish the start (and sometimes the end) of every baseball season and have since I was playing baseball with my brothers and cousins on a make-shift baseball field between a barn, chicken coop and a large storage shed on a ranch in central South Dakota. From those early playing days on the plains, to watching my first major league game in old Met Stadium, to coaching a little, my passion for baseball has continued to grow.
Writer George V. Higgins wrote in The Progress of the Seasons: "The seductiveness of baseball is that almost everyone with an abiding interest in it knows exactly how it should be played. And secretly believes that he could do it, if only God had seen fit to make him just a little bit less clumsy."
Clumsy or not when I see a baseball laying in a field or in a plastic bucket or wherever, I want to grab it and go out and play some catch. I want to hear the pop of the glove, the crack of the bat and a few hoots about one's playing ability.
So, when baseball opened this week (I don't include the games in Japan), I felt an adrenaline rush several days (actually weeks) prior to Thursday, April 5. For me, "Opening Day" at Comerica Park had the right conclusion as the Tigers had a rousing time with 45,027 fans going nuts in a 3-2 walk-off win over the Red Sox. It was Detroit's first walk-off win since the 1921 season when the great Harry Heilman had the game-winning hit.
As the day began, it was fitting that Detroit's Hall of Fame outfielder Al Kaline threw out the first pitch on his 60th anniversary with the Tigers. Kaline, who is referred to as Mr. Tiger, is Detroit's most beloved Tiger. The classy Kaline, who played his entire career in the Motor City, still works as a special assistant to Tigers GM Dave Dombroski and mentors outfielders every spring training.
One of my dreams is to someday meet Kaline, perhaps while attending opening day at Comerica. Maybe it will happen, who knows what happen. I mean, I did spend a week at old Tiger Stadium before it was put to bed.
Until then I will continue to watch the opening show of baseball on the tube, on the Internet, or by listening to the sweet sound of broadcasts over the radio.
Opening day was indeed a big hit for Tigers' fans, who watched ace Justin Verlander unleash a dominating performance against one of the most feared lineups in baseball. Verlander, who threw a strike on his first three pitches, tossed 105 pitches with 66 strikes in eight innings of work. Against Boston, he recorded seven strikeouts with just one walk. Verlander could have easily finished the game and earned another win; but closer Jose Valverde, who was perfect a year ago in saves opportunities, was ready and raring to go. Well, he was ready, maybe too ready. His pitches weren't sharp and the flamboyant Valverde's perfect run of saves ended in the first outing of 2012.
Regardless, the Tigers picked up Valverde with a ninth-inning tally and the world was able to witness Verlander at the top of his game. He is one of those pitchers like Philadelphia's Roy Halladay and Los Angeles' Clayton Kershaw, who are a joy to behold. While the lanky righthander from Old Dominion University (Virgina) had his fifth straight opening day start without a win, he remains one of the game's best (I think the best).
Verlander, 29, has a 100 MPH-plus fastball and a devastating curve. He was named the Cy Young Award winner and MVP a year ago, following his 24-5 campaign, which included a 2.40 ERA in 34 starts with four complete games and two shutouts. He recorded 250 strikeouts in 251 innings, finishing with a 0.920 WHIP. In the last three seasons, he has had 61 wins, 19 losses and 809 combined strikeouts. Verlander, who seems on his way to the Hall of Fame, has rolled up a 107-57 career record with 1,222 strikeouts and four all-star berths.
While he may not win 24 games this year (but 22 likely), he will be dominate and will catch my eye every time he toes the rubber. Know this, as important as he is to the Tigers, this Detroit team is much more than Justin V. They have a solid starting staff and a tough bullpen. And, they have a powerful lineup led by arguably the game's best hitter in Miguel Cabrera (.344 BA, 30 HRs, 105 RBI, 108 BB, a year ago) and Prince Fielder, who simply cashes in 30 HRs and 100 RBIs year in and year out.
Yet on Thursday, the game's exciting conclusion wasn't about Cabrera or Fielder, or even Verlander. Instead, center fielder Austin Jackson, who had a shaky sophomore season in 2011, had the game-winning walk-off single in a 3-of-5 day that included a triple. He had hits on the first and last pitch of the game, which hasn't been done by a Tigers player since Gary Pettis on July 29, 1989. Also, steady shortstop Jhonny Peralta was 3-of-3 with a run scored and catcher Alex Avila had two hits, including a double and one RBI. All-in-all, it was a nice win.
You see, that is the thing about opening day, winning is paramount. A victory on opening day continues the belief, for the thousands upon thousands of fans, that this "will be the year."
I sincerely hope Jayson Stark of ESPN is right about the Tigers winning it all. All this preseason hype about how they will dominate the Central is fun reading but now the work begins and reality is sometimes a tough cookie to digest.
Detroit will be tested. I think the Tigers win 94 and meet the Yanks in the playoffs again, this time for a berth in the World Series.
Who advances? Let's unveil that in another blog on another day.
Hint: the World Series won't be played in the Big Apple.
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