2025 College Basketball Thread

[WVRed]

Bruce Pearl announces retirement:

https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/46347451/sources-bruce-pearl-expected-retire-auburn-hoops-coach

Kind of a shock but not quite when rumors are he's gearing up to replace Tommy Tuberville (whos running for governor) in the Senate in Alabama.

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[Sea Ray]

Bruce Pearl announces retirement:

https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/46347451/sources-bruce-pearl-expected-retire-auburn-hoops-coach

Kind of a shock but not quite when rumors are he's gearing up to replace Tommy Tuberville (whos running for governor) in the Senate in Alabama.

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That's my guess. I think he wants to get into politics. I think he'll be a character to watch politically

[WVRed]

That's my guess. I think he wants to get into politics. I think he'll be a character to watch politicallyAs a UK fan I will miss him. Between the orange blazer when they played to always being over complimentary to the point everyone suspected he was wanting the job when Cal left.

Will be interesting to watch the transfer portal as well. This reeks of what Tony Bennett did last year waiting til the last minute to get his son the job. Supposedly players aren't happy about it but I would imagine rosters are set. I believe Pope left a spot open this time just in case.

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[Sea Ray]

Bruce Pearl announces retirement:

https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/46347451/sources-bruce-pearl-expected-retire-auburn-hoops-coach

Kind of a shock but not quite when rumors are he's gearing up to replace Tommy Tuberville (whos running for governor) in the Senate in Alabama.

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“Bruce Pearl, Auburn University’s men’s basketball coach, is leaning against running to replace outgoing Sen. Tommy Tuberville but is giving himself until the end of the month to make a final decision,” Jacobs wrote on X. “Pearl, who would be the only Jewish Republican in the Senate if elected, spent the summer meeting with Alabama campaign operatives & GOP senators as he considered entering the race.

“… Sources close to Pearl tell me he is unlikely to enter the contest, though they stress that the Auburn coach has not officially decided against running yet. Pearl wants to give himself a few more weeks in case he were to change his mind.”

https://www.on3.com/college/auburn-tigers/news/auburn-bruce-pearl-officially-announce-retirement-in-tribute-video/

[Assembly Hall]

https://www.cbssports.com/college-basketball/news/bruce-pearl-retires-auburn-coach-abruptly-steps-down-after-11-year-tenure-greatest-run-in-program-history/

[Boston Red]

Loyola's Sister Jean has also decided to hang 'em up. She's retiring at the age of 106.

[Assembly Hall]

NCAA precedent:

https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/46356407/ncaa-rules-former-g-league-player-thierry-darlan-eligible

[Sea Ray]

https://www.on3.com/college/auburn-tigers/news/auburn-bruce-pearl-officially-announce-retirement-in-tribute-video/

Paul Finebaum is considering running now that Bruce Pearl is not running. I started a thread on this in the political section

https://www.outkick.com/sports/paul-finebaum-espn-us-senate-outkick-exclusive


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[Chip R]

It is looking more and more that NCAA tournament expansion is going to happen. :barf:

https://www.msn.com/en-us/sports/other/ncaa-tournament-is-reportedly-nearing-expansion/ar-AA1NKC5c

[Sea Ray]

Something for us Tennessee fans to look forward to:

https://x.com/FOXSportsKnox/status/1973757628892254629


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[Boston Red]

Looks like the Billy Gillispie Experience may be coming to a fitting conclusion.

https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/46476462/sources-tarleton-state-billy-gillispie-leave-amid-inquiry

[Boston Red]

Short retirement for Sr. Jean. :(

[RichRed]

Short retirement for Sr. Jean. :(

Man, 106 years. Hard to imagine turning 53 and still having half your life left to live. RIP, Sister.

[SunDeck]

It is looking more and more that NCAA tournament expansion is going to happen. :barf:

https://www.msn.com/en-us/sports/other/ncaa-tournament-is-reportedly-nearing-expansion/ar-AA1NKC5cUgh, I'm going to need to buy legal size paper for my bracket now.

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[Assembly Hall]

I see where Ohio St. landed Top Ten HS recruit Anthony Thompson for a reported $3 million.

[Sea Ray]

Loyola Chicago’s Sister Jean jersey patches made their on-court debut last night


23206

https://x.com/MarchMadnessMBB/status/1983565535301259677?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5 Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1983565535301259677%7Ctwgr% 5E%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=

[Chip R]

https://frontofficesports.com/ncaa-and-federal-gambling-probes-loom-over-mens-college-basketball-season/

[texasdave]

UConn is up on UMass-Lowell 44-3 with 7:37 left in the first half. The River Hawks are 0-16 from the field so far.

[goreds2]

Tallest Player In College Basketball History Makes Debut


redshirt freshman Olivier Rioux made his college basketball debut, becoming the tallest player to ever take the court at 7-foot-9.

Rioux, 19, who sat out during the entirety of the Gators' 2024-25 national championship season, entered Thursday's (November 6) game against North Florida with Florida holding a large lead with 2:09 remaining in the first half. The home crowd at Stephen C. O'Connell Center chanted "We want Ollie" before head coach Todd Golden made the record-setting move.

“I said, ‘Listen, it will happen, the time will come.’ I can be stubborn,” Golden said via the New York Post. “I don’t listen to direction very well at times, so when they’re yelling at me to do it, it’s kinda like, ‘Well, maybe I’ll wait a little longer.’”

Rioux logged two minutes during the Gators' 104-64 win, despite not tallying any statistics in his limited time. The Canadian did, however, edge out former college center Paul Sturgess, who had previously held the record at 7-foot-7.26 inches.

https://700wlw.iheart.com/content/2025-11-07-tallest-player-in-college-basketball-history-makes-debut/

[Assembly Hall]

Boiler Up!

[Sea Ray]

Final: 85-60 .... Vols over Rutgers. Next up is Houston Tomorrow


https://x.com/Vol_Hoops/status/1993041197749932231?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5 Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1993041197749932231%7Ctwgr% 5E%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=

[Boston Red]

I think Houston will be a touch tougher than Rutgers (who lost by 13 to Central Connecticut their last time out)!

[Sea Ray]

I think Houston will be a touch tougher than Rutgers (who lost by 13 to Central Connecticut their last time out)!

Yep. Tennessee was a 14 pt favorite today. I have no visions that my Vols are the #1 team in the nation as of right now. Rutgers looks like another patsy for Big Ten teams to pummel on this year

[Sea Ray]

Looks like Tennessee is a 3.5 pt dog tomorrow. Houston blew us out the last time we played

[Assembly Hall]

I think Houston will be a touch tougher than Rutgers (who lost by 13 to Central Connecticut their last time out)!

Pikiell has to be on the hot seat, right?

[Sea Ray]

I think Houston will be a touch tougher than Rutgers (who lost by 13 to Central Connecticut their last time out)!

Tennessee rose to the occasion and defeated Houston. Tennessee looks like they’re going to be a power in basketball again this season. Go Vols!


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[Sea Ray]

Tennessee is in Las Vegas playing in the Players Era Championship Tournament. It's a little different than most tournaments. Teams are seeded based on how well they do in the first 2 games regardless of your opponent. Thus even though Tennessee beat the highest ranked team last night, they can do no better than 3rd because Michigan's point differential in their two games were better. The players also get NIL money based on how well they do. There's talk next year of expanding this to a 3 week deal. Here's more info on it:

https://basketballsphere.com/en/players-era-championship-schedule-las-vegas/

It's really taking the most talented teams away from the other tourneys like the one in Hawaii and the one in the Bahamas

[Boston Red]

Plenty of good teams to go around. Plus, the others will just start paying, too.

[Sea Ray]

Plenty of good teams to go around. Plus, the others will just start paying, too.

As March shows us, there are only so many good teams to go around but I agree with you that there'll be more money going to the athletes and that'll talk

Plans to go from 18 teams to 32 next year

https://www.cbssports.com/college-basketball/news/big-tournament-bigger-money-how-the-players-era-event-is-changing-college-basketball-in-just-its-second-year/

[Assembly Hall]

Auburn looks like another patsy for SEC teams to pummel on this year.

[Sea Ray]

Auburn looks like another patsy for SEC teams to pummel on this year.

The conference looks much weaker this year. The pre-conference games were glorious and perhaps historic last year, and proved to be clairvoyant for the conference in March. This year doesn't look like that at all. As for Auburn, I'd venture a guess that a nepotistic hire to replace Pearl is going to be a big step down. NC Tarheel football should take heed

[RedTeamGo!]

Michigan started out kind of flat first 2 weeks but against Auburn and SDSU they looked like a tough team to beat.

OSU hasn't really played a tough schedule so far, unless ND becomes a good team, but nice to see they seem to be improved this year.

Wouldn't be surprised at all if they still miss the tourney, though.

[Assembly Hall]

Michigan started out kind of flat first 2 weeks but against Auburn and SDSU they looked like a tough team to beat.

OSU hasn't really played a tough schedule so far, unless ND becomes a good team, but nice to see they seem to be improved this year.

Wouldn't be surprised at all if they still miss the tourney, though.

Yeah. I hadn't been impressed with Michigan early on. Now they look like one of the best teams in the country.

I think tOSU will find their stride and will be tourney team. In that regards I expect a more than "normal" number of B1G teams to make the dance.

[texasdave]

Coach Wes Miller is horrible. Good recruiter. Terrible at actually coaching. The Bearcats are simply not very disciplined team nor do they have any idea of what they should be doing on the court. Worst of all, they lack heart. They can fire him yesterday. It would be shocking if this squad makes the NCAA tournament.

[Assembly Hall]

Coach Wes Miller is horrible. Good recruiter. Terrible at actually coaching. The Bearcats are simply not very disciplined team nor do they have any idea of what they should be doing on the court. Worst of all, they lack heart. They can fire him yesterday. It would be shocking if this squad makes the NCAA tournament.

I watched a little bit of the UC/Louisville game and what I saw of it I thought the Bearcats looked good. I tuned into the Eastern Michigan game with around 13 minutes to go. They were down 13 but made a run and were on the verge of taking the lead. I thought they were gonna pull it out and then they just faded.

[Assembly Hall]

And the wrong Orange wins. Disappointed with the Vols.

[Assembly Hall]

Welcome to the B1G, Ben McCollum. Sparty might be playing the best basketball in the country behind Michigan.

[Chip R]

According to Jon Rothstein, The Royal Palm Invitational --- a new early season tournament in college basketball --- will debut in Dubai in November of 2026.

Multiple power conference teams are expected to be involved.

[Boston Red]

That would be a cool experience for a college kid. Though the kids will probably spend most of their time at the Burj Khalifa mall eating at Shake Shack!

[Kingspoint]

CIN @ XAV is on TNT tonight.

[Assembly Hall]

Iowa St./Purdue and Duke/Michigan St. both are good ones at the half.

[Boston Red]

IU fans should be in a festive mood in Indy for their game against Louisville and will likely generally stay that way not matter how the basketball game goes.

But Go Cards!

[Assembly Hall]

Purdue getting ran out of their own gym. #1 no more barring a miracle.

[Sea Ray]

Tennessee ends their losing streak tonight in Knoxville with a 21 point win over Louisville. Now that’s more like it


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[Sea Ray]

23325

[Sea Ray]

I must say, I do find this disturbing...

23328

[Boston Red]

They were playing Louisville. You can't go to a Louisville game without finding someone wearing Kentucky gear in the stands.

[Sea Ray]

They were playing Louisville. You can't go to a Louisville game without finding someone wearing Kentucky gear in the stands.

Fine, wear Kentucky gear but don't mix and match

[Ky Fried Redleg]

Fine, wear Kentucky gear but don't mix and match

I live almost exactly halfway between Lexington and Knoxville. There are actually more people than you might think down here in southern KY/northern TN that are torn between two lovers. Quite a few people that are fans of both and just can't make up their minds. I see quite a bit of mixing and matching.

[Boston Red]

I live almost exactly halfway between Lexington and Knoxville. There are actually more people than you might think down here in southern KY/northern TN that are torn between two lovers. Quite a few people that are fans of both and just can't make up their minds.

Historically, those folks have been Kentucky basketball fans and Tennessee football fans.

[Ky Fried Redleg]

Historically, those folks have been Kentucky basketball fans and Tennessee football fans.

Yep. That's correct. That's the way it usually falls. Our high school's basketball coach is one of the biggest Vol fans I know. His son was offered by UK to play football. That should be interesting.

[texasdave]

If Wes Miller owns a home in the tri-state area, it's time to put it on the market. It certainly is looking like another year without an NCAA appearance. I miss Mick Cronin. At least he got them there.

[WVRed]

If Wes Miller owns a home in the tri-state area, it's time to put it on the market. It certainly is looking like another year without an NCAA appearance. I miss Mick Cronin. At least he got them there.Bob Huggins is available.

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[Boston Red]

Texas taking another blowout loss today in Knoxville. Boo hoo for Sean Miller.

[Sea Ray]

NM

[Boston Red]

It's closing in on midnight, and Ohio State is at the half. I'm sure Buckeye nation loves that.

[RedTeamGo!]

It's closing in on midnight, and Ohio State is at the half. I'm sure Buckeye nation loves that.

Eh, the Buckeye fanbase is extremely apathetic about the bball team nowadays. Nobody cares.

[Boston Red]

Well, they're missing Ohio State murder Oregon so far in the second half.

[Chip R]

Perfectly normal college basketball story.

https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/47619154/many-college-players-20-charged-point-shaving-scheme

[Boston Red]

Is Miami going to go undefeated in the regular season?

[Sea Ray]

This is BS, Once you've played in the pros you should not be eligible to go back and play in college. This is getting out of hand. You shouldn't get to shuttle back and forth between the SEC and the NBA-G League

https://x.com/JoeTipton/status/2013998057998688650?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5 Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E2013998057998688650%7Ctwgr% 5E%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=

[LiferJim]

Me and my son will be at Miami’s next game against U Mass! Hopefully they are 21-0 after that game!


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[Boston Red]

This is BS, Once you've played in the pros you should not be eligible to go back and play in college. This is getting out of hand. You shouldn't get to shuttle back and forth between the SEC and the NBA-G League

https://x.com/JoeTipton/status/2013998057998688650?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5 Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E2013998057998688650%7Ctwgr% 5E%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=

It's not really any different than kids who play in European professional leagues before coming to the US to play in college.

And college IS the pros now.

[Sea Ray]

It's not really any different than kids who play in European professional leagues before coming to the US to play in college.

And college IS the pros now.

First of all I don't support that either

I don't think college is well served allowing players with NBA contracts to play. As for the NIL, there are all kinds of problems there that need to be addressed. Let's not make it worse

[Assembly Hall]

Me and my son will be at Miami’s next game against U Mass! Hopefully they are 21-0 after that game!


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https://www.cbssports.com/college-basketball/news/how-the-20-0-miami-redhawks-are-beating-the-odds-and-becoming-an-irresistible-sports-story/

[Reds Freak]

Is Miami going to go undefeated in the regular season?

Feels like one of those teams that will go 29-3, lose in the MAC final to Akron, and be left out of the Big Dance in favor of 16-15 Oklahoma.

[Boston Red]

Feels like one of those teams that will go 29-3, lose in the MAC final to Akron, and be left out of the Big Dance in favor of 16-15 Oklahoma.

If they lose three games, they should be left out. 16-15 Oklahoma would be better than any team they played all year.

But I hope they keep winning.

[Reds Freak]

If they lose three games, they should be left out. 16-15 Oklahoma would be better than any team they played all year.

But I hope they keep winning.

Oklahoma is almost certainly better, more talented, and would probably beat Miami 9 out of 10 times. But, in this scenario, Oklahoma wouldn't be as deserving of a NCAA bid and no one wants to see that type of team in the tourney, including Oklahoma fans probably.

[Chip R]

If they lose three games, they should be left out. 16-15 Oklahoma would be better than any team they played all year.

But I hope they keep winning.

Regardless, they better win their conference tournament. Otherwise they are NIT bound.

[Boston Red]

I think they can get in without winning the conference tournament, but I think it means literally going undefeated in the regular season.

[Danny Serafini]

I'm not sure that would be enough considering how bad their schedule is. Having three non-DI wins is ugly, and there's no one of any value non-conference. Plus factor in that the committee has made it clear over the years they don't respect the MAC, and mid-majors in general have really gotten squeezed out the past couple of years. They really need to not leave it up to the committee.

[Fil3232]

Oklahoma is an interesting example to use IMO. Miami and Oklahoma have one common opponent, Arkansas Pine-Bluff. OU beat them by 26, Miami beat them by 27. Miami and Oklahoma have the same amount of Quad 1 & 2 wins. Ken Pomeroy doesn’t like Miami because of their schedule, ranking them 89th (Oklahoma is ranked 62nd). Miami best win is against Akron, a team KenPom ranks just ahead of Oklahoma at 60th.

I don’t think there’s any metric out there whereby we should conclude OU is so much better simply because they’re an SEC team. In fact, I think Miami beats them more often than not if they play on a neutral floor. I hope Miami keeps winning and makes an at-large argument moot. I despise biases towards big schools in college basketball.

[Fil3232]

If they lose three games, they should be left out. 16-15 Oklahoma would be better than any team they played all year.

But I hope they keep winning.

This isn’t true. Akron is better.

[Sea Ray]

Oklahoma is an interesting example to use IMO. Miami and Oklahoma have one common opponent, Arkansas Pine-Bluff. OU beat them by 26, Miami beat them by 27. Miami and Oklahoma have the same amount of Quad 1 & 2 wins. Ken Pomeroy doesn’t like Miami because of their schedule, ranking them 89th (Oklahoma is ranked 62nd). Miami best win is against Akron, a team KenPom ranks just ahead of Oklahoma at 60th.

I don’t think there’s any metric out there whereby we should conclude OU is so much better simply because they’re an SEC team. In fact, I think Miami beats them more often than not if they play on a neutral floor. I hope Miami keeps winning and makes an at-large argument moot. I despise biases towards big schools in college basketball.

As of right now OK is not an NCAA tournament team. Their NET ranking is 76. That’s not a team that would even be on the bubble for an at large bid

Despite Miami (OH) having an undefeated season they’re no better than a bubble team at a NET ranking of 51. That’s not a team that can afford many losses to teams such as what’s on their schedule


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[Reds Freak]

Oklahoma is an interesting example to use IMO. Miami and Oklahoma have one common opponent, Arkansas Pine-Bluff. OU beat them by 26, Miami beat them by 27. Miami and Oklahoma have the same amount of Quad 1 & 2 wins. Ken Pomeroy doesn’t like Miami because of their schedule, ranking them 89th (Oklahoma is ranked 62nd). Miami best win is against Akron, a team KenPom ranks just ahead of Oklahoma at 60th.

I don’t think there’s any metric out there whereby we should conclude OU is so much better simply because they’re an SEC team. In fact, I think Miami beats them more often than not if they play on a neutral floor. I hope Miami keeps winning and makes an at-large argument moot. I despise biases towards big schools in college basketball.

Interesting. To be clear, I just threw out Oklahoma because it seems like they're a perennial P4 bubble team with a .500 overall record and seven conference wins.

[Fil3232]

Definitely. Ended up being an interesting choice!

[LiferJim]

About to head to the Miami vs U Mass game, which starts at 9. Hopefully I don’t jinx them


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[Boston Red]

So when does Anthony Grant get fired?

[LiferJim]

Won 84-82. Game cap coming


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[LiferJim]

Won 84-82. Game cap coming


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The Redhawks started the game ice cold from the three point line. I believe they finished the 1st half 4-14 from behind the arc. Meanwhile the Minutemen were 7-10 and also dominating in the paint. Offensive rebounds from U Mass was also killing the Redhawks. With about 10 minutes to go in the 1st half UMass lead by 9, but Miami was able to cut into the lead and only trailed by 4 at halftime, thanks to Elmers 18 1st half points.

The second half Miami clamped down on defense, rebounding, and started shooting their 3 pointers much better. Miami got the minutemen in foul trouble and two of them fouled out, including Banks, their leading scorer. Miami clawed their way to a 6 point lead with around 2.5 minutes to go and held U Mass off to win by 2 points.

Watching them play live I noticed several things. They pass well, commit few turnovers, and shoot the ball very well. Defensively they are lacking and anytime they face a good big man, that’s going to be a problem, because they aren’t very big and the the backside help is way too slow getting there on lob passes.

It was an awesome game to see and I’m just glad I didn’t jinx them!


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[Sea Ray]

How does this happen?

https://x.com/TristanUda/status/2016358170956853391?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5 Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E2016358170956853391%7Ctwgr% 5E%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=

[WVRed]

How does this happen?

https://x.com/TristanUda/status/2016358170956853391?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5 Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E2016358170956853391%7Ctwgr% 5E%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=Theres a video of them doing something called "Touch Money" before coming out of the tunnel before the game.

I didn't even watch the game last night. Honestly reached the point that I dont care about this team and just want the season to end.

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[Sea Ray]

For a Tennessee fan like me it was a lovely ending to the game last night. Checkout this boneheaded ending for Georgia...


Down three with :15.7 left, Georgia bleeds the clock out and then hits a game-losing layup: a breakdown

https://x.com/AllKindsWeather/status/2016702078068924607?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5 Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E2016702078068924607%7Ctwgr% 5E%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=

[WVRed]

For a Tennessee fan like me it was a lovely ending to the game last night. Checkout this boneheaded ending for Georgia...



https://x.com/AllKindsWeather/status/2016702078068924607?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5 Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E2016702078068924607%7Ctwgr% 5E%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=Give credit to Tennessee for not fouling. Im betting Kentucky would have done that.

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[LiferJim]

For a Tennessee fan like me it was a lovely ending to the game last night. Checkout this boneheaded ending for Georgia...



https://x.com/AllKindsWeather/status/2016702078068924607?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5 Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E2016702078068924607%7Ctwgr% 5E%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=

Wow! Just when you think you’ve seen it all.


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[Sea Ray]

Wow! Just when you think you’ve seen it all.


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I was watching it live. Enjoyed it very much. So glad it wasn't my team making this sort of error. The player appeared to be so proud of himself that he found this lane with a clear path to the bucket. Quite funny seeing the UGa bench putting their hands on their heads and the body language of the coach as he tried to devise a play during the timeout to steal/score in less than a second...:laugh:

[Boston Red]

Random thing I learned today. I saw that Louisville's women won at Stanford last night, which was kind of a ho hum win for the #7 team. But it's still kind of amazing to me that Louisville has a women's basketball program that can get a routine win at Stanford. Growing up in Louisville, the women's program was generally very bad. Never in a million years saw them becoming this.

ANYWAY, that led me to look up Tara VanDerveer, because I was thinking she couldn't possibly still be coaching there. And that was right. She retired after the 2024 seas witn an incredible 1064-220 record at Stanford. What I did NOT know was that she was actually the coact at Ohio State for 5 seasons before taking the Stanford job. 110-37 overall, with a 56-5 Big Ten record. Apparently the Big Ten did not take women's basketball very seriously back then.

Anyway, random bit of area knowledge that I did not have prior to this morning.

[RedTeamGo!]

My Dayton Flyers are straight garbage.

Beyond time to move on from Grant

[Assembly Hall]

My Dayton Flyers are straight garbage.

Beyond time to move on from Grant

Prolly can snag Archie from Rhode Island.

[Reds Freak]

Prolly can snag Archie from Rhode Island.

How about Travis Steele?

[Assembly Hall]

How about Travis Steele?

Be a great hire. But something tells me he can get a bigger gig.

[Boston Red]

Be a great hire. But something tells me he can get a bigger gig.

Just burn the tapes from his first four seasons as a head coach.

[Assembly Hall]

Just burn the tapes from his first four seasons as a head coach.

I guess 19 win seasons aren't good enough for the Muskie faithful...

[RedTeamGo!]

Prolly can snag Archie from Rhode Island.

He’s not exactly killing it

[Assembly Hall]

He’s not exactly killing it

He killed it at Dayton...

[Boston Red]

I guess 19 win seasons aren't good enough for the Muskie faithful...

Well, he went to zero NCAA Tournaments in four years. Any program that thinks that's good enough is a bad program.

[RedTeamGo!]

He killed it at Dayton...

Eternity a go at this point. And did he kill it or did he catch lightning in a bottle?

- - - Updated - - -


Well, he went to zero NCAA Tournaments in four years. Any program that thinks that's good enough is a bad program.

Bingo

[Boston Red]

Steele was like 35 when he took the Xavier job, so he's probably a better coach now than he was then. And he probably would have been better off starting at Miami instead of Xavier. I'm glad he's doing well now, but he was bad at Xavier.

[Assembly Hall]

Well, he went to zero NCAA Tournaments in four years. Any program that thinks that's good enough is a bad program.

Is that you Archie Miller?

[Boston Red]

Nah, Archie is too busy being awful at URI to post here.

[Revering4Blue]

Nah, Archie is too busy being awful at URI to post here.

Save for the Danny Hurley tenure, URI has been a dumpster fire since 2000. The Dayton job vs. the URI job = Apples to Asparagus comparison. The URI job is nowhere near Dayton in relation to top job in the Atlantic 10.

To a certain extent, Anthony Grant ‘s tenure = Mike Woodson’s IU tenure from the standpoint of Archie’s immediate successor essentially wasting far more talent than Archie ever had, and with far more resources available. The one notable caveat: The 2020 Dayton team that may well have won the whole thing had COVID not forced the cancellation of the tournament.

That said, Dayton would be better served trying to find the next Archie Miller/ Chris Holtmann/RIchard Pitino (their profiles are similar) than trying to recreate their past.


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[LiferJim]

RedHawks beat Northern Illinois today 85-61, to go 22-0. The 6’-8” Grant Byers lead the scoring with 21 points. Miami was only 7-28 from behind the arc and thats going to have to improve, if they make the tournament.


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[Boston Red]

Jim Baron had URI firmly in the mediocre camp for a decade. Not great, but certainly not a dumpster fire. But of course Dayton is a better job and Grant should be given the heave ho for his failure to dominate the A-10.

[Reds Freak]

If not Steele, how about his brother? Would Dayton, or some other high-ish major, be interested in John Groce? On the way to his fifth straight 20-win season at Akron, three NCAA trips in the last four seasons. Still only 54 years old.

[goreds2]

Texas A & M on top of SEC but unranked?

[Revering4Blue]

Texas A & M on top of SEC but unranked?

It totally defies logic, doesn’t it? As an aside, ‘Buckyball’ is a blast to watch.


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[Revering4Blue]

Jim Baron had URI firmly in the mediocre camp for a decade. Not great, but certainly not a dumpster fire. But of course Dayton is a better job and Grant should be given the heave ho for his failure to dominate the A-10.

- Jim Baron was a good coach. But even he couldn’t lead URI to the big dance during his tenure. But it’s much more difficult to win consistently at Atlantic 10 level mid-majors in this era of unlimited Transfer Portals and NIL, where your top players will likely be poached.

Frankly, Archie should have held out for a better job. Little Ricky landed at New Mexico and now Xavier, while Holtmann landed at DePaul. There’s nothing in either of their profiles to suggest that either are better coaches than Archie. And before anyone tries to throw out the ‘Archie missed the tournament every year during his tenure at IU’ - as the Woodson apologists constantly do - the 2020 team was safely in the NCAA field before COVID forced the cancellation of the tournament.

- Agree totally about Grant and Dayton. But you have to admit that Archie’s run there totally invalidated the ‘everyone wins at Dayton’ argument - I have also heard the same thing regarding Xavier, and we KNOW that’s not true. Sure, they may win at Dayton, but not at the level Archie was able to. Sadly - again, due largely to this transfer portal/NIL era - that kind of run is very unlikely to be replicated no matter the coach. Either way, they can certainly do better than Grant.


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[Boston Red]

Literally everyone has won at Xavier for 40 years. Except one guy. Buyer beware.

[RedTeamGo!]

Literally everyone has won at Xavier for 40 years. Except one guy. Buyer beware.

Sure, but for most of that time they weren’t in the big east

[Revering4Blue]

Literally everyone has won at Xavier for 40 years. Except one guy. Buyer beware.

I think it’s safe to say no Xavier coach will never again coach Xavier to a 100% winning percentage, like Jonas Hayes. [emoji4]


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[Boston Red]

Sure, but for most of that time they weren’t in the big east

The jump from the MCC to the A-10 was every bit as big as the jump from the A-10 to the Big East.

[LiferJim]

Sea Rays Volunteers whooped up on Old Miss tonight.

My Redhawks beat Buffalo 73-71 to go 23-0! They remained cold from behind the arc going 6-22. Heading back on the 20th to watch them play Bowling Green.


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[Sea Ray]

Sea Rays Volunteers whooped up on Old Miss tonight.

My Redhawks beat Buffalo 73-71 to go 23-0! They remained cold from behind the arc going 6-22. Heading back on the 20th to watch them play Bowling Green.


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Yes and Chris Beard stormed the court and got thrown out. Rumor has it that official must have resembled his "fiancée"

[Sea Ray]

It's very unfortunate that college sports has come to this:


Kelvin Sampson unfiltered:

"We have a poor athletic department. We're poor... The way our recruiting is going, we have to stop at some point because we don't have enough money. It's not about who we want to sign, it's about who we can afford to sign"

https://x.com/TheFieldOf68/status/2019291023646814369?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5 Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E2019291023646814369%7Ctwgr% 5E%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=

[Boston Red]

Pat Knight is out of college coaching after losing his job at Marian. Just because dad can do it...

[RichRed]

Pat Knight is out of college coaching after losing his job at Marian. Just because dad can do it...

I was just looking at Knight’s coaching record. In his time as Lamar’s HC, they went from 23-12 to 3-28 to 3-22 (fired with 5 games left in the season). It’s tough to fall THAT hard.

[Ky Fried Redleg]

With my apologies to my buddy, Sea Ray, whenever my Cats beat Tennessee , I feel like I've died and gone to a beach with seven nude Bella Thornes to build sandcastles by the sea for eternity.

https://smartsearchhub.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Bella-Thorne-in-Mexico.jpg

[LiferJim]

With my apologies to my buddy, Sea Ray, whenever my Cats beat Tennessee , I feel like I've died and gone to a beach with seven nude Bella Thornes to build sandcastles by the sea for eternity.

https://smartsearchhub.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Bella-Thorne-in-Mexico.jpg

Can I go to please?

The Redhawks also beat Marshall yesterday 90-74 and the improved on the three point shooting, going 8-18 for 44 percent. Eian Elmer lead Miami, with 18 points. 24-0 now!


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[goreds2]

Can I go to please?

The Redhawks also beat Marshall yesterday 90-74 and the improved on the three point shooting, going 8-18 for 44 percent. Eian Elmer lead Miami, with 18 points. 24-0 now!


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Bella is just like the RedHawks, perfect.

[Ky Fried Redleg]

Bella is just like the RedHawks, perfect.

I named one of my cats after Bella. MEOWZA !!!! Tis true.

[Assembly Hall]

I was just looking at Knight’s coaching record. In his time as Lamar’s HC, they went from 23-12 to 3-28 to 3-22 (fired with 5 games left in the season). It’s tough to fall THAT hard.


Pat Knight is out of college coaching after losing his job at Marian. Just because dad can do it...

Pat Knight is no Joey Meyer...

[WVRed]

Bediako ruled ineligible to play for Bama. The NCAA actually won one.

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[Playadlc]

Pat Knight is out of college coaching after losing his job at Marian. Just because dad can do it...

Pat inherited all of the madness but none of the genius from his father.

[Boston Red]

Miami is the lone survivor.

[Sea Ray]

Miami is the lone survivor.

True...thanks to their not having Kansas on their schedule

[RedTeamGo!]

True...thanks to their not having Kansas on their schedule

I disagree, Miami (OH) is easily the best team in the country. They would be undefeated with Arizona's schedule.

[WVRed]

I disagree, Miami (OH) is easily the best team in the country. They would be undefeated with Arizona's schedule.And they are getting absolutely no respect.

I wouldn't be surprised if they dont get matched up with Kentucky in a 6-11 matchup and win.


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[Sea Ray]

And they are getting absolutely no respect.

I wouldn't be surprised if they dont get matched up with Kentucky in a 6-11 matchup and win.


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Sure, they can beat an 11 seed but that's not saying much. I'm not here to diminish the year they're having. Live it up in Oxford!. Just don't think that being undefeated in the MAC means they can hang with P4 teams with far more losses

- - - Updated - - -


I disagree, Miami (OH) is easily the best team in the country. They would be undefeated with Arizona's schedule.

The best team? I'll be very surprised if they make it out of the first weekend in the NCAA tournament

[RedTeamGo!]

The best team? I'll be very surprised if they make it out of the first weekend in the NCAA tournament

Oh yeah, Miami of Ohio from the MAC is easily going to win the natty. Will finish undefeated through the tourney.

[Boston Red]

It's basically 1979 Indiana State all over again.

[LiferJim]

Miami is also the first Mac team ever to be the last unbeaten team in D1. History


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[Sea Ray]

It's basically 1979 Indiana State all over again.

Where's their Larry Bird?

[LiferJim]

Sure, they can beat an 11 seed but that's not saying much. I'm not here to diminish the year they're having. Live it up in Oxford!. Just don't think that being undefeated in the MAC means they can hang with P4 teams with far more losses

- - - Updated - - -



The best team? I'll be very surprised if they make it out of the first weekend in the NCAA tournament

That’s cool that you live there. Should meet us at the Bowling Green game.


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[RedTeamGo!]

Jokes aside:

One of my coworkers is friends with the father of one of the players on Miami. He started the year as the 6th/7th man and has made his way into starters minutes. I point this out because I was talking to my coworker the other day about him and he told me had hung out with the kid's dad recently and just bluntly asked him about how the NIL deals work.

His dad said his son got $90,000 this year.

Repeat, his son got $90K this year to come off the bench on a MAC TEAM. I cannot imagine what players on Michigan, Arizona, and Kansas are getting.

[LiferJim]

Jokes aside:

One of my coworkers is friends with the father of one of the players on Miami. He started the year as the 6th/7th man and has made his way into starters minutes. I point this out because I was talking to my coworker the other day about him and he told me had hung out with the kid's dad recently and just bluntly asked him about how the NIL deals work.

His dad said his son got $90,000 this year.

Repeat, his son got $90K this year to come off the bench on a MAC TEAM. I cannot imagine what players on Michigan, Arizona, and Kansas are getting.

That’s cool. Which player is it, not that it matters? Just curious


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[Fil3232]

I’d say the kid that’s slid into the starting PG role

[RedTeamGo!]

That’s cool. Which player is it, not that it matters? Just curious


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I don't feel like I should put his name in writing since I have given specifics on how much money he makes lol

[Fil3232]

It’s pretty easy to connect the dots lol

[Boston Red]

Where's their Larry Bird?

Larry Bird is the friends Miami has made along the way.

[RedTeamGo!]

It’s pretty easy to connect the dots lol

maybe so but I ain't typing his name and posting haha

[LiferJim]

I don't feel like I should put his name in writing since I have given specifics on how much money he makes lol

Very good point and after some quick research I think I know who it is. Had to look because honestly I didn’t follow them early in the season. Yes I’m a front runner this year. lol


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[Boston Red]

I can assure you college athletics are still pure at the MAC level for gymnastics. My daughter's NIL deal (it's a whole team deal) is 2/3rds off spray tanning at a local joint. :laugh:

[Ky Fried Redleg]

Sure, they can beat an 11 seed but that's not saying much. I'm not here to diminish the year they're having. Live it up in Oxford!. Just don't think that being undefeated in the MAC means they can hang with P4 teams with far more losses

- - - Updated - - -



The best team? I'll be very surprised if they make it out of the first weekend in the NCAA tournament



Kentucky would be the 6 seed in a 6-11 matchup with Miami.

[Sea Ray]

Kentucky would be the 6 seed in a 6-11 matchup with Miami.

Are you projecting Miami as a bubble team or as an automatic bid? They're not likely to go far as an 11 seed and they sure aren't comparable to Indiana St in 1979 as they were a #1 seed

[Ky Fried Redleg]

Are you projecting Miami as a bubble team or as an automatic bid? They're not likely to go far as an 11 seed and they sure aren't comparable to Indiana St in 1979 as they were a #1 seed

Good question. I think, while not automatic, they will be in the field even if they don't secure the automatic bid. They might not be able to afford more than one loss, though. But, yeah, I think they are close to being a lock if they just lose once. Cats would definitely be the higher seed, though, if those two met, imo. I just hope KY stays away from the 8-9 seed line. 6 or 7 would be fine with me.

[Boston Red]

They're definitely in if they finish the regular season undefeated but lose in the MAC Tournament IMO. However, definitely gets tricky if they lose even one regular season game and don't win the tournament.

They could win the NIT. Would that be better for Miami than losing in the first or second round of the NCAA Tournament? I say no. ALWAYS best to be in the Big Dance.

[RedTeamGo!]

For MAC teams making the tourney is a much bigger deal than winning the NIT. It’s a one bid league. I am 42 years old and have never seen my Rockets make the NCAA tourney.

[Danny Serafini]

I went to the UT game against Kent St. last week. There was a banner hanging with NIT second round appearances on it. Struck me as completely weird :laugh:. I would gladly sacrifice that banner to be in the real tournament.

[Reds Freak]

They're definitely in if they finish the regular season undefeated but lose in the MAC Tournament IMO. However, definitely gets tricky if they lose even one regular season game and don't win the tournament.

They could win the NIT. Would that be better for Miami than losing in the first or second round of the NCAA Tournament? I say no. ALWAYS best to be in the Big Dance.

I think your question was an interesting debate a few years ago but now the P4 schools won't be caught dead in the NIT so unfortunately that tournament is now essentially the CBI 2.0.

[Sea Ray]

For MAC teams making the tourney is a much bigger deal than winning the NIT. It’s a one bid league. I am 42 years old and have never seen my Rockets make the NCAA tourney.

I was living in Lebanon, OH in the early 1990s and they were all gung ho over a basketball talent Casey Shaw who went to Toledo and briefly played in the NBA. It does not look like Casey led the Rockets to an NCAA tournament appearance. Their last appearance was 1980

[RedTeamGo!]

I was living in Lebanon, OH in the early 1990s and they were all gung ho over a basketball talent Casey Shaw who went to Toledo and briefly played in the NBA. It does not look like Casey led the Rockets to an NCAA tournament appearance. Their last appearance was 1980

Yep, I was friends with Jim Swaney's son in high school (part of the 1980 team). We would go over to their house sometimes and he would be hooping in the drive way, was still damned good ha.

[RichRed]

For MAC teams making the tourney is a much bigger deal than winning the NIT. It’s a one bid league. I am 42 years old and have never seen my Rockets make the NCAA tourney.

For us mid-major (or lower) fans, making the NCAAs is the Holy Grail. It’s such a special thing because it happens so infrequently. My school has been Division 1 for 50 years and has made the tourney 6 times, but only 3 in the last 42 years.

(Btw, the Dukes beat the Rockets by 2 points the other day in a real clash of the titans. ;))

[Boston Red]

The old MAC vs. Sun Belt showdown. Big time. I was very curious why the Texas State women's team was staying at my hotel in DeKalb, IL the other day as it made no sense for them to be playing at Northern Illinois in the midde of February.

[Danny Serafini]

I was living in Lebanon, OH in the early 1990s and they were all gung ho over a basketball talent Casey Shaw who went to Toledo and briefly played in the NBA. It does not look like Casey led the Rockets to an NCAA tournament appearance. Their last appearance was 1980

I went to UT during the Casey Shaw era. Really good player, but at his size in that conference should've been dominant. He was just missing that last little bit. That was during a run of frustratingly close calls to making the tournament.

[dabvu2498]

I’m the same age as Casey Shaw and we never played Lebanon in the regular season in high school but always had a preseason scrimmage. They were tough to deal with as our team topped out at about 6’4”. He had a really good pro career in Europe. He’s now an assistant coach with Bryce Drew at Grand Canyon.

[Danny Serafini]

Bryce Drew is actually his brother-in-law. Shaw's wife Dana Drew was one of UT's best ever women's basketball players.

[Boston Red]

Shaw's wife Dana Drew was one of UT's best ever women's basketball players.

WTF, she didn't go to Valpo?!?

Does Homer still talk to her?

[LiferJim]

In case you’re interested or haven’t seen them, the Miami Redhawks play Ohio University on regular ESPN tonight at 9 pm!


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[Assembly Hall]

What the hell is a Billiken? Whatever they are, they are playing some ball.

[Reds Freak]

What the hell is a Billiken? Whatever they are, they are playing some ball.

A really complete, balanced, fun team to watch that does everything well. 16 in NET, 24 in Kenpom. Feels like they are the classic mid-major team that should get a 4-5 seed but will be woefully underseeded as a 7-8 and give one of the top seeds fits in the second round.

[Ky Fried Redleg]

Those Billikens are soccer giants. Won something like ten NCAA championships. I think they've won an opening round basketball game in the NCAAT a few times.

[Assembly Hall]

Those Billikens are soccer giants. Won something like ten NCAA championships. I think they've won an opening round basketball game in the NCAAT a few times.

Saint Louis was pretty dang good at hoops in the 50s. Spoonhour had them clicking. Majerus and Crews had them humming as well.

[Ky Fried Redleg]

Saint Louis was pretty dang good at hoops in the 50s. Spoonhour had them clicking. Majerus and Crews had them humming as well.

Yep. They have a nice basketball history.

[LiferJim]

Speaking of wins, the Redhawks won the game last night easily, 90-74. 25-0 and counting!


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[Revering4Blue]

What the hell is a Billiken?
I asked that question to a St.Louisan back when Spoonhour had the program humming and I was informed it is a doll/mythical creature which represents good luck.

[Revering4Blue]

A really complete, balanced, fun team to watch that does everything well. 16 in NET, 24 in Kenpom. Feels like they are the classic mid-major team that should get a 4-5 seed but will be woefully underseeded as a 7-8 and give one of the top seeds fits in the second round.
A Josh Schertz coached team getting the shaft from the selection committee? Surely you jest. It was an absolute unfunny joke that his (Schertz) last Indiana State team was snubbed in ‘24 in favor of a mediocre UVA team. Not at all unlike mediocre UNC getting in ahead of WVU last year when all metrics - except a certain person on the selection committee- favored WVU. The fact that UNC destroyed San Diego State in the play-in game doesn’t change that.

[Reds Freak]

A Josh Schertz coached team getting the shaft from the selection committee? Surely you jest. It was an absolute unfunny joke that his (Schertz) last Indiana State team was snubbed in ‘24 in favor of a mediocre UVA team. Not at all unlike mediocre UNC getting in ahead of WVU last year when all metrics - except a certain person on the selection committee- favored WVU. The fact that UNC destroyed San Diego State in the play-in game doesn’t change that.

That Indiana State team was fantastic and a shame they got an NCAA snub. His SLU team seems pretty similar, especially with Avila as the focus, only with twice as much depth. Schertz will be the first call for a lot of high major openings this cycle. I wonder if SLU has a chance to keep him.

[Assembly Hall]

I asked that question to a St.Louisan back when Spoonhour had the program humming and I was informed it is a doll/mythical creature which represents good luck.

Looks like a mischievous blue gargoyle to me....

[Assembly Hall]

That Indiana State team was fantastic and a shame they got an NCAA snub. His SLU team seems pretty similar, especially with Avila as the focus, only with twice as much depth. Schertz will be the first call for a lot of high major openings this cycle. I wonder if SLU has a chance to keep him.

It will be interesting to see what jobs become available but there are a few big time programs that could use Josh at the helm. If I was the AD at Ohio State I would have Schertz's # handy. Notre Dame could use him as well.

[RedTeamGo!]

If OSU AD isn’t already talking to Schertz he needs to be fired immediately. It is incredibly obvious that Diebler isn’t the guy.

[WVRed]

If OSU AD isn’t already talking to Schertz he needs to be fired immediately. It is incredibly obvious that Diebler isn’t the guy.Ohio State passing on John Calipari for Jake Diebler is the ultimate case of what could have been.

Jerrod Calhoun is a name to watch as well. Cincinnati might be the betting favorite there but if Ohio State gets in the market it could be interesting. Im surprised he wasn't WVUs choice last year given his ties to Huggins and West Virginia in general.

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[WVRed]

https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/47943350/sources-jerome-tang-kansas-state-1-11-big-12

This will be interesting once it gets to court.

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[Boston Red]

I hope Tang fights them the whole way and gets punitive damages for K-State's bad faith.

[Assembly Hall]

I hope Tang fights them the whole way and gets punitive damages for K-State's bad faith.

And K-State enters the Josh Schertz sweepstakes...

[WVRed]

I hope Tang fights them the whole way and gets punitive damages for K-State's bad faith.Hes already hired Tom Mars so that is very well underway.

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[Boston Red]

Congrats to Miami. That should have been the toughest opponent left on their schedule.

[LiferJim]

RedHawks just went to U Mass and beat them 86-77, to go 26-0. It was 60-60 with 9:45 to go but Miami finished strong, to pull out the win. Can’t wait to be at the Bowling Green game Friday, as Millet Hall will be rocking!


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[Boston Red]

Mick Cronin is the absolute worst. He's Bob Huggins without the redeeming qualities. I do miss Xavier beating him in the Crosstown Shootout and then him pretending to want to fight Xavier players.

[WVRed]

Mick Cronin is the absolute worst. He's Bob Huggins without the redeeming qualities. I do miss Xavier beating him in the Crosstown Shootout and then him pretending to want to fight Xavier players.Just saw the video of him being asked about Michigan State's student section.

He might be the biggest complainer in college basketball.

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[Sea Ray]

How is he still at UCLA? He must be on the hot seat. Of course we can't rule out him back in Clifton next year

[Boston Red]

How is he still at UCLA?

He had a mediocre team get hot and win five games in the NCAA Tournament (play-in to Final Four; almost beat #1 Gonzaga in the Final Four). He's been living off that five game run.

[Sea Ray]

He had a mediocre team get hot and win five games in the NCAA Tournament (play-in to Final Four; almost beat #1 Gonzaga in the Final Four). He's been living off that five game run.

I get it but that was 5 yrs ago and the arrow is pointing down. Playing in the Big Ten has not been good for them

[Boss-Hog]

How is he still at UCLA? He must be on the hot seat. Of course we can't rule out him back in Clifton next yearhttps://www.cbssports.com/college-basketball/news/mick-cronin-ucla-contract-extension-buyout-salary/

Short of being fired for cause, I don't think he'll be anywhere other than UCLA any time soon with that buyout.

[Sea Ray]

https://www.cbssports.com/college-basketball/news/mick-cronin-ucla-contract-extension-buyout-salary/

Short of being fired for cause, I don't think he'll be anywhere other than UCLA any time soon with that buyout.

I was wondering about that. OK, that answers why he's still there. They decided that he's their guy. Congrats to him

[WVRed]

I get it but that was 5 yrs ago and the arrow is pointing down. Playing in the Big Ten has not been good for themCase in point of his constant whining.

He complained about their schedule earlier in the year and pulled out of the CBS Sports Classic using travel as the excuse.

Thats what happens when you follow the money.

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[Assembly Hall]

I was wondering about that. OK, that answers why he's still there. They decided that he's their guy. Congrats to him

He’s their guy until he ain’t.


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[WVRed]

https://www.cbssports.com/college-basketball/news/mick-cronin-ucla-contract-extension-buyout-salary/

Short of being fired for cause, I don't think he'll be anywhere other than UCLA any time soon with that buyout.They could renegotiate his buyout if they decided to part ways. He would get the money just probably spread out longer. Basically what happened to Mark Stoops at Kentucky.



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[WVRed]

Watched Arkansas Alabama last night.

By the end of the game (2OT), Cal was playing walk ons due to injuries and foul trouble.

First team in 30 years to score 115+ points, less than 10 turnovers and still lose. Darius Acuff also scored 49 points in the losing effort.

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[Sea Ray]

Seth Greenberg doesn't like what Mick did:

https://www.cincinnati.com/story/sports/college/othercolleges/2026/02/18/mick-cronin-ucla-michigan-state-behavior-unacceptable-espn-seth-greenberg/88744071007/?tbref=hp

[WVRed]

Sea Ray, just read that Wes Rucker was killed in a car accident this evening. Its been all over X.

RIP if true.

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[LiferJim]

Miami beat Bowling Green 91-77 and were in control pretty much the whole way. Millet Hall was definitely rocking and it was also senior night. Cleveland’s sack master, Myles Garrett was also in attendance. Skaljac lead the way with 24 points and sense replacing the injured Ipsaro, the point guard has really stepped up his game. I still believe this team could make some noise come tournament time, as they are a very fundamentally sound basketball team. 27-0 baby!!!


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[Ky Fried Redleg]

Miami beat Bowling Green 91-77 and were in control pretty much the whole way. Millet Hall was definitely rocking and it was also senior night. Cleveland’s sack master, Myles Garrett was also in attendance. Skaljac lead the way with 24 points and sense replacing the injured Ipsaro, the point guard has really stepped up his game. I still believe this team could make some noise come tournament time, as they are a very fundamentally sound basketball team. 27-0 baby!!!


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I don't care what league you're playing in. When you are undefeated after 27 games and you've beaten everyone in your conference, you are a team that is very capable of winning games in the NCAAT. I am a UK fan and I would hate like hell for UK to have to play Miami, because it would be a struggle.

[Boston Red]

Was KU's entire team out today?

[Assembly Hall]

I don't care what league you're playing in. When you are undefeated after 27 games and you've beaten everyone in your conference, you are a team that is very capable of winning games in the NCAAT. I am a UK fan and I would hate like hell for UK to have to play Miami, because it would be a struggle.

I remember the '01-'02 Kent State squad that dang near advanced to the FF. They beat a #2 seed and a #3 seed before running out of gas against my Hoosiers.

[Sea Ray]

Kansas wins big against a highly ranked team 2 days after losing big to UC. Go figure


The past two games illustrated this team’s bipolarity. The Jayhawks were woeful in a blowout loss to Cincinnati, a team on the wrong side of the March Madness bubble. Two days later, Kansas routed a Houston squad with Final Four potential.

https://www.cincinnati.com/story/sports/ncaab/2026/02/24/bill-self-kansas-basketball-big-monday-darryn-peterson-nba-draft-ku-score-houston/88823533007/?tbref=hp

[LiferJim]

RedHawks now 28-0 after beating Eastern Michigan last night 74-64!!!


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[Boston Red]

Yes, but now they have to travel to Kalamazoo to face the mighty Broncos. Dream season about to die!

[Boston Red]

For clarity, "my" Broncos are in no way, shape or form derailing Miami's season tonight. WMU stinks.

Kind of surprised WMU is only a 12 point dog tonight.

[dabvu2498]

Of note… The Redhawks could still hypothetically lose their conference regular season championship (Akron is also pretty decent), but Wright State has wrapped up the Horizon League. I’ve been paying quite a bit of attention to them the last couple years because I know some folks on their coaching/support staff. They’re not particularly good at any one thing and the Horizon League is, quite frankly, hard to watch sometimes, but they’re pretty hard-nosed and have some decent scoring options, and have done enough to put some hardware on the shelf. Hopefully they can string together 3 conference tourney wins and make the big dance.

[WVRed]

Just saw that Tarleton State isn't bringing back Billy Gillespie.

Looking at the picture he has aged significantly since he was at Kentucky.

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[Boston Red]

I think it's Billy G making the decision and not Tarleton. Health related, so it makes sense about the picture.

[dabvu2498]

I think it's Billy G making the decision and not Tarleton. Health related, so it makes sense about the picture.

Yeah. He hasn’t coached in a month. Sounds like high blood pressure and heart problems. I hadn’t heard he’d also had a kidney transplant a few years ago.

[Boston Red]

Well......a win is a win is a win.

[LiferJim]

Well......a win is a win is a win.

No doubt. You almost inadvertently called it

29-0


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[WVRed]

Nothing like watching Calipari get outcoached by someone half his age.

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[Sea Ray]

Interesting discussion I heard on the radio today about Miami and whether they’re deserving of an at large bid. Right now the last team in would be Indiana. Should Miami get the bid over IU? Who do you think wins that game?


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[dabvu2498]

Change of pace: Women’s’ hoops

If you haven’t seen Makayla Blakes of Vanderbilt play yet, you should. She made news last season for breaking the NCAA single game freshman scoring record twice (53 and then 55).

She hasn’t hit 50 (or even 40) this season, but she became the first woman in the SEC to average 30+ ppg in conference games. She scored 34+ in 6 of 7 games in February and has an active streak of 5 games with 30+ against ranked opponents. She’s not just a 3 point shooter either. Good all-around game for a player who’s only 5’8”.

[WVRed]

Interesting discussion I heard on the radio today about Miami and whether they’re deserving of an at large bid. Right now the last team in would be Indiana. Should Miami get the bid over IU? Who do you think wins that game?


Sent from my iPhone using TapatalkI know Bruce Pearl probably put his son in the crosshairs.

Bruce basically lobbied for Miami to be left out if they lose the conference tournament. Auburn is a bubble team and would benefit.

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[Boston Red]

Miami is in as long as they finish the regular season undefeated.

Akron is a better team and probably wins the MAC Tournament.

[Sea Ray]

Here's an interesting one. I'm not familiar with this player. Any of you all know anything about him?


Chad Baker-Mazara was dismissed from the USC men’s basketball team yesterday after an internal investigation determined he falsified his birth certificate.

An anonymous tip reportedly suggested that the Dominican native is actually 32 years old and a father of 4.

https://x.com/ShaneTuttleNCAA/status/2028521548332650823?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5 Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E2028521548332650823%7Ctwgr% 5E%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=

[Boston Red]

Here's an interesting one. I'm not familiar with this player. Any of you all know anything about him?



https://x.com/ShaneTuttleNCAA/status/2028521548332650823?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5 Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E2028521548332650823%7Ctwgr% 5E%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=

I saw that on Twitter and assumed (still do) it was a parody account/post.

[WVRed]

I saw that on Twitter and assumed (still do) it was a parody account/post.The guy who has the account has done other parodies so it's not a surprise.

Falsifying birth certificates happens in baseball though so anything is possible.

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[Sea Ray]

I saw that on Twitter and assumed (still do) it was a parody account/post.

:thumbup:

23615

[Boston Red]

How about Pat Kelsey to UC? Louisville fans seem to be getting impatient (which is kind of amusing less than 2 years removed from the Kenny Payne era), and UC could do a lot worse than to bring a West sider back home.

Or Pitino could go to Providence, and Kelsey could slide back in to his alma mater on Victory Parkway.

Should be an interesting coaching carousel season.

[WVRed]

How about Pat Kelsey to UC? Louisville fans seem to be getting impatient (which is kind of amusing less than 2 years removed from the Kenny Payne era), and UC could do a lot worse than to bring a West sider back home.

Or Pitino could go to Providence, and Kelsey could slide back in to his alma mater on Victory Parkway.

Should be an interesting coaching carousel season.I think Richard Pitino to Providence has legs.

My guess is Jerrod Calhoun to UC but I've been wrong before.

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[Boston Red]

I think Richard Pitino to Providence has legs.


I wouldn't be surprised. He's a bit of an odd fit at Xavier.

I also think Kim English might be in the process of saving his job. Ditto for Miller at UC given the buyout number.

[Revering4Blue]

2026 college basketball coaching carousel hot seat list: The power-conference jobs that could flip this March.

https://www.cbssports.com/college-basketball/news/college-basketball-coaching-carousel-2026-hot-seat-watch-power-conferences/

[LiferJim]

Miami uncharacteristically playing very sloppy against Toledo, with 10 turnovers already, but up 3 with 15 minutes to go.


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[Boston Red]

Living on the edge.

[Fil3232]

The edge being trying to go undefeated while knowing you’re not only getting every team’s best shot, but you’re having to prove your worth to the tourney committee every game. I’m amazed at what the group has been able to accomplish.

Two Mid-American Conference teams have ever gone undefeated in league play:

1950 Univ of Cincinnati (10-0)
1958 Miami University (12-0)

And the MAC has had some damn good teams and players in the interim.

[LiferJim]

The edge being trying to go undefeated while knowing you’re not only getting every team’s best shot, but you’re having to prove your worth to the tourney committee every game. I’m amazed at what the group has been able to accomplish.

Two Mid-American Conference teams have ever gone undefeated in league play:

1950 Univ of Cincinnati (10-0)
1958 Miami University (12-0)

And the MAC has had some damn good teams and players in the interim.

Yep, it’s not easy at all to go undeated in college basketball, no matter who you’re playing. There’s no way they’re getting left out of the tournament now.

Watching the game tonight, they did seem to play very tight at times and I believe that’s at least partially why they had 15 turnovers. I do think winning all those close games this year, bodes well for them come tournament time. If they shoot the ball well and limit their turnovers, I believe they could win a game or two at the Big dance!


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[Boston Red]

Miami is PROBABLY okay now, but I wouldn’t test that theory in Athens Friday night.

[Sea Ray]

There are only 22 high-major scholarship players who will celebrate Senior Night this week, having played at just one place. Mississippi State's Shawn Jones Jr. is the only SEC senior to finish where he started.

Dozens of coaching changes and the transfer portal have led to this

https://x.com/Isaac__Trotter/status/2028897813912846351?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5 Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E2028897813912846351%7Ctwgr% 5E%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=

[fearofpopvol1]

Ohio is definitely going to give them their best shot and I would expect a close game no matter what. Still, it's a great story and hoping Miami pulls out the victory.

[Assembly Hall]

Interesting discussion I heard on the radio today about Miami and whether they’re deserving of an at large bid. Right now the last team in would be Indiana. Should Miami get the bid over IU? Who do you think wins that game?


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Indiana by 10. However I feel Miami would beat Tennessee...

[Sea Ray]

Indiana by 10. However I feel Miami would beat Tennessee...

Without Ament, for sure. We'll see

Where do we see Miami? Are they a play in game in Dayton or better?

[Boston Red]

Well, if they win the MAC Tournament, they can't be in the play-in game (unless they're a 16 seed...obviously not happening). They've been hanging around the 10/11 line in the bracketologys I've seen. But if they beat Ohio and lose in the MAC Tournament, Dayton is a possibility. I think the Committe would give them one of the last byes to avoid the controversy of sending a 31-1, 32-1 or 33-1 team to Dayton for the First Four.

[Boston Red]

ESPN updated their Bubble Watch and still has Miami in the "Work to Do" category. Presumably that work will be complete with a win Friday night in Athens. I would think that would boost them AT LEAST to "should be in" category. I doubt ESPN will characterize them as a lock prior to them hoisting the MAC Tournament championship trophy.

[Fil3232]

Matt Brown of Extra Points newsletter did a FOIA deep-dive into Miami’s email efforts to schedule before this season. The amount of P5 and high mid-major teams they emailed is substantial, to say nothing of the phone calls and texts that I’m sure were made but not subject to Matt’s query. Anyway, any narrative that Miami didn’t want to play better teams can firmly be put to rest.

https://www.extrapointsmb.com/p/here-is-a-list-of-everybody-miami-oh-tried-to-schedule-in-men-s-basketball-this-season

[Chip R]

An assistant coach for Cal State Bakersfield has been arrested for pimping and other charges.

https://www.espn.com/college-sports/story/_/id/48099891/csub-basketball-coach-alleged-link-pimping-drugs-guns

[Ky Fried Redleg]

An assistant coach for Cal State Bakersfield has been arrested for pimping and other charges.

https://www.espn.com/college-sports/story/_/id/48099891/csub-basketball-coach-alleged-link-pimping-drugs-guns


Pimpin' ain't easy ... unless you're BPP .



https://www.youtube.com/shorts/X7cqOd7Hf4c?feature=share

[WVRed]

Caleb Wilson is out for the rest of the season.

So based on what Bubba Cunningham said last year when WVU was left out of the tournament, should UNC suffer as well?

We all know they wont.

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[LiferJim]

Miami pulls out the undefeated regular season, by winning in OT, again, 110-108.

Congratulations Redhawks and welcome to the big dance!


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[RedTeamGo!]

What a game.

[LiferJim]

Luckily we got to see the last 10 minutes, including overtime, on my son’s phone, on our way home from Columbus. Eian Elmer scored 32 and carried them in the final minutes of regulation. The 6’-2” Paveletzke lead OU with 37 points and was definitely a handful during the part we saw. Thank god my daughter in law was driving. lol


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[fearofpopvol1]

That game was incredible. Had all the drama you could ever want. Ohio was tough as nails. They never gave up and really, Miami is lucky that Paveletzke became human late. What an epic season. It's been fun to watch and I'll certainly be rooting for them.

[Danny Serafini]

The o/u on that game was 159.5. Someone may have misread that one :laugh:

[Sea Ray]

Congrats to Miami on the undefeated season and I’m happy for them. The stars absolutely aligned for them this season. Another close win over a horrible opponent. OU has a NET ranking of 227, Detroit Mercy is ahead of them, Stony Brook right behind. Miami’s had a few of those types of games.

If they don’t win the MAC Tournament I think the committee should put them in the tournament as an 11 vs 11 play in game. If they win that, kudos and let’s party on but that opponent will be far better than OU


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[Fil3232]

I think your analysis is off. Miami will not be in Dayton.

[fearofpopvol1]

Miami is in even if they don't win their tournament and they will not be in a play-in game no matter the outcome.

[Ky Fried Redleg]

Miami is in even if they don't win their tournament and they will not be in a play-in game no matter the outcome.

Absolutely!

[Boston Red]

Miami is in even if they don't win their tournament and they will not be in a play-in game no matter the outcome.

I think you're right, but I'm not confident about the play-in part if they don't win the MAC.

I like Akron to win the MAC Tournament. I think they're the best team. Two bid league

[LiferJim]

Miami is in even if they don't win their tournament and they will not be in a play-in game no matter the outcome.

I agree. I don’t believe for a second the committee will make an undefeated team in the regular season, play a play in game. Regardless of their schedule, that’s extremely hard to accomplish.


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[Sea Ray]

I think your analysis is off. Miami will not be in Dayton.

I wasn’t making a prediction. I’m saying what I would do


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[Fil3232]

Okay. I’m glad you’re not on the committee.

[Chip R]

The University of Northern Iowa just won 4 games in 4 days to punch their ticket to the dance!

[Sea Ray]

Okay. I’m glad you’re not on the committee.

No worry there! :laugh:

Come tournament time we all chime in. I'm absolutely no expert on college basketball. I follow the sport just to get me to baseball season. Having said that, some folks are on the same page with me. This site projects Miami as a 10 seed. A loss in the MAC could easily make them an 11 seed

https://x.com/DelphiBrackets/status/2030666049641746904

[RichRed]

The University of Northern Iowa just won 4 games in 4 days to punch their ticket to the dance!

Congrats, Chip! Few sports thrills compare to when your school goes a-dancin’. Enjoy!

[Boston Red]

No worry there! :laugh:

Come tournament time we all chime in. I'm absolutely no expert on college basketball. I follow the sport just to get me to baseball season. Having said that, some folks are on the same page with me. This site projects Miami as a 10 seed. A loss in the MAC could easily make them an 11 seed

https://x.com/DelphiBrackets/status/2030666049641746904

This compilation of 53 bracket projections has Miami as an 11 seed on average.

http://www.bracketmatrix.com/

[Reds Freak]

I hate to see Navy have a season for the ages, bulldoze their way through league play with a 17-1 record, then lose on a buzzer beater in the conference semis. Especially with the country at war right now.

It'll never happen but the bottom 8 conferences, the perennial one-big leagues like the HBCUs, the MAAC, the Patriot, the NEC, etc., need to stop having conference tourneys and should send their regular season champ to the big dance.