The Matchup: DePaul (4-1) @ Northwestern (5-1)
Location: Welsh-Ryan Arena (Evanston, IL)
TV: Big Ten Network (2:30 PM CT)
Radio: WGN AM 720
Fun Fact: DePaul’s campus is actually closer to Welsh-Ryan Arena than to the All State Arena where the Blue Demons play their home games.
About DePaul
DePaul enters Saturday’s contest with a 4-1 record. The record while impressive is similar to Northwestern’s in that the Blue Demons haven’t exactly beaten a murder’s row of opponents. DePaul’s best win was 67-63 at what I believe is a good UIC team. I think that’s similar, but not quite as impressive as NU’s 73-59 win over previously undefeated Florida State.
DePaul actually stood at 4-0 before dropping a 77-67 game to Cal in Berkley. In that game the Blue Demons where led in scoring by 6-4 sophomore forward Dar Tucker with 21 points. Tucker leading the team in scoring probably didn’t surprise many close observers as Tucker has been DePaul’s leading scorer in four of his team’s five games. Tucker is by far the Demons best player. He was ranked the fifth best shooting guard in the national according to Rivals.com when he came out of high school and last year as a freshman was named to the Big East’s All-Rookie Team. Tucker currently averages 20.8 points per game, but his 27.5% three point percentage clearly reveals that the strength of his game is getting in to the lane and getting to the basket. NU would be advised to defend him the same way they did the Florida State guards who had similar skills.
DePaul’s other big threat is a big man in 6-10 250 lbs. Mac Koshwal who averages a double-double with 12.4 points per game and 11.2 rebounds per game. His only major weakness seems to be from the free throw line where he shoots only 56%. He’ll be another good challenge for the Wildcats young front line.
Wildcat fans should also look out for DePaul guards Will Walker and Jabari Curie. Walker averages 11.6 points per game and Curie is the only Blue Demon starter who shoots better than 35% from three. Interestingly enough, Curie is a poor free throw shooter at less than 50%. Overall, DePaul shoots less than 30% from three point range which might allow NU to use its 1-3-1 to cut off penetration. If NU does play the 1-3-1, look for DePaul’s Jeremiah Kelly to come off the bench to bomb threes. He leads the Demons with a 38.9% from three.
Prediction: I think NU’s win on Wednesday combined with DePaul’s loss the same day gives NU momentum going into this contest. I also like the fact that while it’s a short trip for DePaul, NU is still at home. Northwestern, 71 DePaul, 65.
Friday, December 5, 2008
Thursday, December 4, 2008
ACC Wins Challenge, Wildcats Win Game
I'm really enjoying telling my friends from other Big Ten schools (read: Illinois) how the Wildcats took care of their end of the deal in the ACC/Big Ten Challenge when six other Big Ten teams didn't. Those numbers translate into a 6-5 ACC win, but I'm pretty happy with the 'Cats win so I'll live with the Big Ten dropping the challenge for the tenth straight season.
As far as NU’s win, there were so many good things it is impossible to mention them all. Lindsay Willhite does a nice job breaking down a number of them, though, in this write up. Also, Lake the Posts has an interesting post about NU hoops and what it will be like when NU makes the NCAA Tournament. Take a look here for that.
My favorite thing about last night was the feeling of an intensity in Welsh-Ryan Arena which has been lacking many times in recent years. The students did a great job and I hope they show up on Saturday for their last chance to see the ‘Cats before break. It wasn’t just the students who made noise, though. I thought the whole NU crowd was excellent and I think it made a difference. I especially enjoyed the standing ovation for Ivan Peljusic after his fantastic run in the second half.
Craig Moore was outstanding and I think he really is taking on a leadership role. He even wanted to talk to the ref after Carmody T until Coach C yelled out to Craig, “Don’t talk to him (the ref).” Also of interest was the fact Moore played 40 minutes. Admittedly there isn’t a great backup option for him right now, but I do worry about fatigue if he has to play a full game regularly. Everybody else has someone, or a couple someones, who can be rotated in. I’d like Nick Fruendt to step up as Moore’s backup, but he’s clearly not ready yet. Until he is, Moore going to get a lot of playing time. Let’s hope his level of intensity doesn’t change as it was that which I believe helped drive the ‘Cats to victory.
I also want to mention my favorite play last night besides the Peljusic slam was John Shurna getting a tip in put back late in the game. That play gave Shurna 13 offensive rebounds this year which leads the team. It has been a long time since Northwestern’s roster has featured anybody who could get an offensive rebound, this year the team has several. It gives the Wildcats a totally different dimension which should seriously help the ‘Cats in Big Ten play.
Finally, I want to give a major thumbs up to Coach Bill Carmody. This might have been the best game he’s coached at Northwestern. He wasn’t afraid to adjust his plan on the fly and he seemed to know just what he needed to do to fire up his team. The technical and his apparently fiery halftime speech seemed to fire up the Wildcats at just the right time. Also, he used a variety of defenses including putting in Jeremy Nash to run a 1-3-1 when early on it seemed Florida State was easily able penetrate the matchup 2-3 zone with Juice and Moore up top. I also want to note that when Juice came back in during the second half and NU returned to the matchup his defensive play along with that of Craig Moore was some of best I’ve seen from NU in several years.
As far as NU’s win, there were so many good things it is impossible to mention them all. Lindsay Willhite does a nice job breaking down a number of them, though, in this write up. Also, Lake the Posts has an interesting post about NU hoops and what it will be like when NU makes the NCAA Tournament. Take a look here for that.
My favorite thing about last night was the feeling of an intensity in Welsh-Ryan Arena which has been lacking many times in recent years. The students did a great job and I hope they show up on Saturday for their last chance to see the ‘Cats before break. It wasn’t just the students who made noise, though. I thought the whole NU crowd was excellent and I think it made a difference. I especially enjoyed the standing ovation for Ivan Peljusic after his fantastic run in the second half.
Craig Moore was outstanding and I think he really is taking on a leadership role. He even wanted to talk to the ref after Carmody T until Coach C yelled out to Craig, “Don’t talk to him (the ref).” Also of interest was the fact Moore played 40 minutes. Admittedly there isn’t a great backup option for him right now, but I do worry about fatigue if he has to play a full game regularly. Everybody else has someone, or a couple someones, who can be rotated in. I’d like Nick Fruendt to step up as Moore’s backup, but he’s clearly not ready yet. Until he is, Moore going to get a lot of playing time. Let’s hope his level of intensity doesn’t change as it was that which I believe helped drive the ‘Cats to victory.
I also want to mention my favorite play last night besides the Peljusic slam was John Shurna getting a tip in put back late in the game. That play gave Shurna 13 offensive rebounds this year which leads the team. It has been a long time since Northwestern’s roster has featured anybody who could get an offensive rebound, this year the team has several. It gives the Wildcats a totally different dimension which should seriously help the ‘Cats in Big Ten play.
Finally, I want to give a major thumbs up to Coach Bill Carmody. This might have been the best game he’s coached at Northwestern. He wasn’t afraid to adjust his plan on the fly and he seemed to know just what he needed to do to fire up his team. The technical and his apparently fiery halftime speech seemed to fire up the Wildcats at just the right time. Also, he used a variety of defenses including putting in Jeremy Nash to run a 1-3-1 when early on it seemed Florida State was easily able penetrate the matchup 2-3 zone with Juice and Moore up top. I also want to note that when Juice came back in during the second half and NU returned to the matchup his defensive play along with that of Craig Moore was some of best I’ve seen from NU in several years.
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
'Cats win in ACC/Big Ten Challenge, Beat FSU 73-59
I’ll have more complete recap on tonight’s 73-59 win over Florida State tomorrow, but I want to highlight a few things right now. First off, NU outrebounded Florida State 41-33. That’s spectacular as anybody who saw the Seminoles up close would agree they definitely pass the eyeball test. Kevin Coble and Jeff Ryan led the ‘Cats with 8 rebounds each. Even more impressive, they each had three offensive rebounds. I have to give special note to Ryan who played perhaps his most aggressive game as a Wildcat. He always has seemed to me to be a guy who had loads of ability, but who didn’t seem to have an aggressive bone in his body. Tonight, Jeff was so aggressive he even managed to get himself bloody from diving into a pile to fight for the ball. If Ryan continues to play with the attitude he showed tonight I expect a very good season.
Another player who looked great tonight was Ivan Peljusic. Peljusic scored a total of 10 points, but his personal 8-2 run put the Wildcats ahead to stay in the game. I’ve been a fan of Peljusic for awhile now and I really believe the ‘Cats look better with him in the game. The offense seems to move quicker as Peljusic seems to understand the system a bit better than the freshmen and his intensity seems to help key the defense.
Shooting was also key to the ‘Cat victory as they shot 9-of-17 from three point range. Unfortunately, they shot only 18-of-31 from the free throw line and that almost cost them the game. It always amazes me how basketball players can’t hit free throws. Even good shooters sometimes throw up bricks at the line. Kevin Coble for example should never miss two straight free throws. Thankfully, NU’s free throw woes didn’t hurt them tonight, but if I were Carmody I’d spend some time working the free throw line at practice. Thankfully, the ‘Cats 52.9% three point shooting was far better than FSU’s 26.1%. Craig Moore led the ‘Cats shooting 4-of-6 from behind the arc. Also of note was Jeremy Nash hitting a big three right when it looked like FSU might take control of the game. I really think Nash’s shot is looking better.
Finally, let me say the students showed up tonight and made noise. It was great. I hope all those who came to their first game of the season tonight had a great time and come back Saturday at 2:30 to see NU battle DePaul.
Another player who looked great tonight was Ivan Peljusic. Peljusic scored a total of 10 points, but his personal 8-2 run put the Wildcats ahead to stay in the game. I’ve been a fan of Peljusic for awhile now and I really believe the ‘Cats look better with him in the game. The offense seems to move quicker as Peljusic seems to understand the system a bit better than the freshmen and his intensity seems to help key the defense.
Shooting was also key to the ‘Cat victory as they shot 9-of-17 from three point range. Unfortunately, they shot only 18-of-31 from the free throw line and that almost cost them the game. It always amazes me how basketball players can’t hit free throws. Even good shooters sometimes throw up bricks at the line. Kevin Coble for example should never miss two straight free throws. Thankfully, NU’s free throw woes didn’t hurt them tonight, but if I were Carmody I’d spend some time working the free throw line at practice. Thankfully, the ‘Cats 52.9% three point shooting was far better than FSU’s 26.1%. Craig Moore led the ‘Cats shooting 4-of-6 from behind the arc. Also of note was Jeremy Nash hitting a big three right when it looked like FSU might take control of the game. I really think Nash’s shot is looking better.
Finally, let me say the students showed up tonight and made noise. It was great. I hope all those who came to their first game of the season tonight had a great time and come back Saturday at 2:30 to see NU battle DePaul.
Game 6: Florida State @ Northwestern
The Matchup: Florida State (7-0) @ Northwestern (4-1)
Location: Welsh-Ryan Arena (Evanston, IL)
TV: ESPN2
Radio: wgnradio.com
Fun Fact: Northwestern and Florida State have met three times in the ACC/Big Ten Challenge with Florida State holding a 2-1 advantage. Northwestern’s win came by the score of 57-50 on November 28, 2001 in Evanston. Here’s the recap.
About Florida State
First off, Florida State is gigantic. They feature 7-1 center Solomon Alabi, 6-9 forward Chris Singleton, 6-8 forward Ryan Reid, and 6-9 forward Uche Echefu of the bench. Basically, the ‘Noles play a three forward-one guard lineup to outsize and out rebound their opposition. Although the Wildcats obviously have good size with Rowley, Shurna, and Coble starting, facing such a large team could give the Wildcat freshmen a serious challenge on the boards. Florida State averages 37 rebounds a game. The Wildcats average just under 29. It will take a great effort from all the Wildcat front court players to win the battle of the boards against the large and athletic Seminoles.
Also of interest is the fact Florida State has won four games this year by less than four points. One of those wins was on a neutral court in Las Vegas over Cal. The ‘Noles edged Cal 80-77 in the Global Sports Classic and held of a late charge from Cincinnati to win by 11 in a game which got close when the Bearcats started to press. I look for NU to go to the press early tonight much like they did on Monday. As a result, I expect both teams will have to use their benches. Despite that, though, I expect Florida State guard Tony Douglas who averages 19.0 points per game and the Wildcats Craig Moore to stay on the court most of the night. They are by far the two best shooters in the game.
Prediction:
I was one of the only people who predicated NU to beat Butler. They didn’t, but it was close. Overall, I’m pretty optimistic about this NU team, but I don’t see them having enough firepower to beat FSU. Florida State, 66 Northwestern, 55.
Location: Welsh-Ryan Arena (Evanston, IL)
TV: ESPN2
Radio: wgnradio.com
Fun Fact: Northwestern and Florida State have met three times in the ACC/Big Ten Challenge with Florida State holding a 2-1 advantage. Northwestern’s win came by the score of 57-50 on November 28, 2001 in Evanston. Here’s the recap.
About Florida State
First off, Florida State is gigantic. They feature 7-1 center Solomon Alabi, 6-9 forward Chris Singleton, 6-8 forward Ryan Reid, and 6-9 forward Uche Echefu of the bench. Basically, the ‘Noles play a three forward-one guard lineup to outsize and out rebound their opposition. Although the Wildcats obviously have good size with Rowley, Shurna, and Coble starting, facing such a large team could give the Wildcat freshmen a serious challenge on the boards. Florida State averages 37 rebounds a game. The Wildcats average just under 29. It will take a great effort from all the Wildcat front court players to win the battle of the boards against the large and athletic Seminoles.
Also of interest is the fact Florida State has won four games this year by less than four points. One of those wins was on a neutral court in Las Vegas over Cal. The ‘Noles edged Cal 80-77 in the Global Sports Classic and held of a late charge from Cincinnati to win by 11 in a game which got close when the Bearcats started to press. I look for NU to go to the press early tonight much like they did on Monday. As a result, I expect both teams will have to use their benches. Despite that, though, I expect Florida State guard Tony Douglas who averages 19.0 points per game and the Wildcats Craig Moore to stay on the court most of the night. They are by far the two best shooters in the game.
Prediction:
I was one of the only people who predicated NU to beat Butler. They didn’t, but it was close. Overall, I’m pretty optimistic about this NU team, but I don’t see them having enough firepower to beat FSU. Florida State, 66 Northwestern, 55.
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
This Season’s Pressing Issue
The Wildcats are 4-1 and other than the obvious disappointment over the loss to Butler I’m pretty happy. However, there is one major issue which cries out to be addressed—student attendance. Last night before the game I watched some of the Big Ten Network’s rebroadcast of the NU-Iowa 2005 game. I was a student then and remember that night as best student fan experience I had at NU. The only other game which comes close was the 2005 football game between NU and Iowa in which it seemed only me and my 500 closest friends were left on the NU side of the stands when Baz hit Ross Lane for the winning TD. (Note: It’s probably not a coincidence my two favorites games involve beating Iowa).
Anyhow, after watching the game from 1/26/05 and then looking at the student section at Welsh-Ryan Arena last night I was struck by the disparity in the number of student fans. Granted, non-conference games always bring out fewer fans, but I believe overall this season has seen the worst student attendance I can remember. I’ve talked with a number of folks who agree with me as well. My cousin who as a student at NU suffered through multiple seasons of less than 10 wins agrees that this year is far worse than those years in the mid-late nineties. Perhaps, the struggles of the last two seasons have reduced student interest, but I’m not sure I buy that argument. I have to say the average college student doesn’t have that long a memory. Folks I knew showed up for the 2003-2004 season even though the 2002-2003 wasn’t impressive. They showed up for the 2003 football season even though 2002 was a total horror show. Besides, while the wins haven’t been over powerhouses, this year’s team has won thus far at home. Now, it is entirely possible the ability to be on ESPN2 will bring out more fans on Wednesday night, however, it is also entirely possible Florida State will beat the ‘Cats handily. If that happens, will any students who showed for the first time come back? I worry the answer might be no.
So what can Northwestern do to get students to show up? I’m not really sure. I think a lot of efforts have been made over the years, but clearly the magic bullet for student attendance has yet to be found. I will say this, though, I think the best people to market to students are other students. Thinking back to my own experience, when I managed to persuade people to attend games with me they usually had a good time. So, I encourage all the students who do show up regularly to try and bring their friends. Also, don’t let them give up on the team after a loss Wednesday. We’ve all seen losses before, part of the great thing about NU fans is we’re tough. A few losses don’t make us give up on our team.
The other major thing I think which can help is creating a great environment in the student section which students want to be a part of. Of course, this is kind of a chicken-egg issue. To do this you need more fans to show up. It’s hard for 30 people to create the same intensity that 500 or 1,000 can. What made that game in January of 2005 so much fun wasn’t just the way it ended. It was the fact that through the whole night I felt a level of intensity reverberating throughout the building. I remember standing in the student section as we clearly rattled Pierre Pierce and he missed critical free throws. I remember trying to read Steve Alford’s lips as he attempted to develop a defense to stop NU and then shouting out what we thought he said as if Bill Carmody could hear us and use what we learned. Alford said something about guarding Vedran close as I recall. Clearly, his players didn’t listen.
Finally, I do want to give serious props to Eric Peterman and the other 35 students who it seems do show up regularly. You folks are great fans and I’m certain the team really appreciates the support. Now, let’s see what we can do about making other students join your ranks. If you need help show them this clip which clearly shows how much fun NU hoops are.
Anyhow, after watching the game from 1/26/05 and then looking at the student section at Welsh-Ryan Arena last night I was struck by the disparity in the number of student fans. Granted, non-conference games always bring out fewer fans, but I believe overall this season has seen the worst student attendance I can remember. I’ve talked with a number of folks who agree with me as well. My cousin who as a student at NU suffered through multiple seasons of less than 10 wins agrees that this year is far worse than those years in the mid-late nineties. Perhaps, the struggles of the last two seasons have reduced student interest, but I’m not sure I buy that argument. I have to say the average college student doesn’t have that long a memory. Folks I knew showed up for the 2003-2004 season even though the 2002-2003 wasn’t impressive. They showed up for the 2003 football season even though 2002 was a total horror show. Besides, while the wins haven’t been over powerhouses, this year’s team has won thus far at home. Now, it is entirely possible the ability to be on ESPN2 will bring out more fans on Wednesday night, however, it is also entirely possible Florida State will beat the ‘Cats handily. If that happens, will any students who showed for the first time come back? I worry the answer might be no.
So what can Northwestern do to get students to show up? I’m not really sure. I think a lot of efforts have been made over the years, but clearly the magic bullet for student attendance has yet to be found. I will say this, though, I think the best people to market to students are other students. Thinking back to my own experience, when I managed to persuade people to attend games with me they usually had a good time. So, I encourage all the students who do show up regularly to try and bring their friends. Also, don’t let them give up on the team after a loss Wednesday. We’ve all seen losses before, part of the great thing about NU fans is we’re tough. A few losses don’t make us give up on our team.
The other major thing I think which can help is creating a great environment in the student section which students want to be a part of. Of course, this is kind of a chicken-egg issue. To do this you need more fans to show up. It’s hard for 30 people to create the same intensity that 500 or 1,000 can. What made that game in January of 2005 so much fun wasn’t just the way it ended. It was the fact that through the whole night I felt a level of intensity reverberating throughout the building. I remember standing in the student section as we clearly rattled Pierre Pierce and he missed critical free throws. I remember trying to read Steve Alford’s lips as he attempted to develop a defense to stop NU and then shouting out what we thought he said as if Bill Carmody could hear us and use what we learned. Alford said something about guarding Vedran close as I recall. Clearly, his players didn’t listen.
Finally, I do want to give serious props to Eric Peterman and the other 35 students who it seems do show up regularly. You folks are great fans and I’m certain the team really appreciates the support. Now, let’s see what we can do about making other students join your ranks. If you need help show them this clip which clearly shows how much fun NU hoops are.
Monday, December 1, 2008
Wildcats, 59 UC-Riverside, 43
Obviously the best thing you can say about tonight’s game is that Northwestern beat previously 4-1 UC-Riverside and moved themselves to 4-1. The performance was somewhat underwhelming with the ‘Cats turning the ball over 16 times and shooting only 20% from three point range. Kevin Coble led Northwestern with 14 points and added five rebounds, but his points came rather quietly. Perhaps Coble’s 1-of-5 three point shooting performance was to blame, but it seemed Kevin wasn’t really himself tonight. That has to be worrisome for Bill Carmody as Coble wasn’t particularly impressive at Brown and struggled mightily at Butler. If Coble doesn’t get a littler more consistent, Northwestern has no chance against 7-0 Florida State on Wednesday.
Another player who struggled on Monday was Luka Mirkovic. This is unfortunate as many suspected Mirkovic would be the most significant contributor of the freshmen class. Based on the interest other big name BCS schools had in Luka, I suspected he’d make much more of an instant impact. However, he seems very tentative and uncertain thus far. If he doesn’t start hitting some shots and avoiding fouls I think Ivan Peljusic will steal more of his minutes.
On the positive side at the center position Kyle Rowley scored 10 points on 5-of-6 shooting. I’m impressed with Rowley thus far. He is more than just big. He runs the court well and his nice touch on his hook shot. Considering the size advantage he’ll have over virtually everybody, he should be able to score off that hook on a regular basis. The only negative from today’s game on Rowley’s line was his four turnovers. To some extent, though, I don’t think that can all go on Rowley. His teammates need to make sure they get the big man the ball where he can handle it.
Another freshman who played well overall tonight was John Shurna. Shurna struggled early on, but to his credit he came back strong and basically put UC-Riverside away when the Highlanders closed the ‘Cat lead to 11 late. Shurna scored on a nice backdoor pass from Ivan Peljusic and then made a spectacular play in which he blocked a shot, picked up the ball, and took it in for an easy layup. Defiantly highlight film stuff.
An overall positive was the defensive play of the Wildcats. Coach Carmody used a variety of defensives, including some very solid man-to-man, to hold the Highlanders to only 43 points. Especially impressive was the Wildcats effort on UC-Riverside leading scorer Javon Borum who scored only 4 points in 27 minutes.
The ‘Cats only have a day to practice before they play on Wednesday night. Some people would say that’s not a good thing, but I think it might work in the ‘Cats favor. Although they didn’t play great tonight, they won. The win makes the ‘Cats 4-1 overall and 4-0 at home. I think Northwestern’s freshmen, especially Shurna, have a lot more confidence at home. Hopefully that confidence will translate into forward momentum and solid play. Also, I believe the ‘Cats used tonight to work on some of the stuff they’ll want to use against the ‘Noles. Florida State is reported to be somewhat vulnerable to pressure and tonight the ‘Cats effectively used a 2-2-1 press to create a number of turnovers. Hopefully a similar game plan will have similarly positive results on Wednesday night.
Another player who struggled on Monday was Luka Mirkovic. This is unfortunate as many suspected Mirkovic would be the most significant contributor of the freshmen class. Based on the interest other big name BCS schools had in Luka, I suspected he’d make much more of an instant impact. However, he seems very tentative and uncertain thus far. If he doesn’t start hitting some shots and avoiding fouls I think Ivan Peljusic will steal more of his minutes.
On the positive side at the center position Kyle Rowley scored 10 points on 5-of-6 shooting. I’m impressed with Rowley thus far. He is more than just big. He runs the court well and his nice touch on his hook shot. Considering the size advantage he’ll have over virtually everybody, he should be able to score off that hook on a regular basis. The only negative from today’s game on Rowley’s line was his four turnovers. To some extent, though, I don’t think that can all go on Rowley. His teammates need to make sure they get the big man the ball where he can handle it.
Another freshman who played well overall tonight was John Shurna. Shurna struggled early on, but to his credit he came back strong and basically put UC-Riverside away when the Highlanders closed the ‘Cat lead to 11 late. Shurna scored on a nice backdoor pass from Ivan Peljusic and then made a spectacular play in which he blocked a shot, picked up the ball, and took it in for an easy layup. Defiantly highlight film stuff.
An overall positive was the defensive play of the Wildcats. Coach Carmody used a variety of defensives, including some very solid man-to-man, to hold the Highlanders to only 43 points. Especially impressive was the Wildcats effort on UC-Riverside leading scorer Javon Borum who scored only 4 points in 27 minutes.
The ‘Cats only have a day to practice before they play on Wednesday night. Some people would say that’s not a good thing, but I think it might work in the ‘Cats favor. Although they didn’t play great tonight, they won. The win makes the ‘Cats 4-1 overall and 4-0 at home. I think Northwestern’s freshmen, especially Shurna, have a lot more confidence at home. Hopefully that confidence will translate into forward momentum and solid play. Also, I believe the ‘Cats used tonight to work on some of the stuff they’ll want to use against the ‘Noles. Florida State is reported to be somewhat vulnerable to pressure and tonight the ‘Cats effectively used a 2-2-1 press to create a number of turnovers. Hopefully a similar game plan will have similarly positive results on Wednesday night.
Game 5: UC-Riverside @ Northwestern Wildcats
The Matchup: UC-Riverside (4-1) @ Northwestern (3-1)
Location: Welsh-Ryan Arena (Evanston, IL)
TV: The Big Ten Network
Radio: WGN AM 720
Fun Fact: UC-Riverside’s current four game winning streak is the program’s longest since joining the Division I ranks.
About UC-Riverside
The UC-Riverside Highlanders 4-1 record might not seem that impressive when you look who they’ve beat. The list goes as follow: Sacramento State (61-49), Northern Arizona (59-52), Occidental (62-34), and Colgate (54-44). Now, I’m not going to try and sell anyone on the fact that Northern Arizona is a powerhouse or that a win on the road at Colgate is a monumental road victory. However, the fact is the Highlanders wins are similar to the Wildcats. Still, with the Wildcats ranked #23 according to the latest numbers at RealTimeRPI.com and the Highlanders coming in at #196 you would think this was an easy win for the ‘Cats. The truth is, though, I’m not sure.
UC-Riverside is not a powerful offensive team, but the numbers show they play excellent defense. They are currently allowing only 51.6 points per game. That’s a good thing for Coach Jim Wooldridge as his squad only averages 57.6. In fact, Riverside only has one player who averages double figures. Six foot 195 lbs. guard Javon Borum averages 11.6 points per game. Borum is a JUCO transfer from Wallace State. He is one of eight new transfers on the Riverside roster. The leading rebounder for the Highlanders is guard Aaron Scott. Scott is only 6-4, but he averages more than eight rebounds a game. It is interesting to note that the tallest player on the Highlander roster, 6-11 Kyle Clark, has not played yet this year. 6-8 forward Bryson Hampton a transfer for Seward County CC is the tallest of the Riverside starters. He averages 4.8 points and rebounds per game. The Highlanders shoot only 32.3% from 3 point range and 40.6% overall. In fact, in terms of three point shooting the Highlanders tend not to loft threes. They have only made 20 this year (out of 62) with Imperial Valley CC transfer Brandon Dowdy leading way by making 8 or the team’s 20. It seems NU won’t have to worry about the Highlanders beating them from behind the arc. The week’s next opponent, Florida State, might be a different story.
Prediction: Despite the fact the two teams’ combined record is 7-1 this game should go to the Wildcats in a manner similar to the Texas A&M-CC game. I say Northwestern, 77 UC-Riverside, 63.
Location: Welsh-Ryan Arena (Evanston, IL)
TV: The Big Ten Network
Radio: WGN AM 720
Fun Fact: UC-Riverside’s current four game winning streak is the program’s longest since joining the Division I ranks.
About UC-Riverside
The UC-Riverside Highlanders 4-1 record might not seem that impressive when you look who they’ve beat. The list goes as follow: Sacramento State (61-49), Northern Arizona (59-52), Occidental (62-34), and Colgate (54-44). Now, I’m not going to try and sell anyone on the fact that Northern Arizona is a powerhouse or that a win on the road at Colgate is a monumental road victory. However, the fact is the Highlanders wins are similar to the Wildcats. Still, with the Wildcats ranked #23 according to the latest numbers at RealTimeRPI.com and the Highlanders coming in at #196 you would think this was an easy win for the ‘Cats. The truth is, though, I’m not sure.
UC-Riverside is not a powerful offensive team, but the numbers show they play excellent defense. They are currently allowing only 51.6 points per game. That’s a good thing for Coach Jim Wooldridge as his squad only averages 57.6. In fact, Riverside only has one player who averages double figures. Six foot 195 lbs. guard Javon Borum averages 11.6 points per game. Borum is a JUCO transfer from Wallace State. He is one of eight new transfers on the Riverside roster. The leading rebounder for the Highlanders is guard Aaron Scott. Scott is only 6-4, but he averages more than eight rebounds a game. It is interesting to note that the tallest player on the Highlander roster, 6-11 Kyle Clark, has not played yet this year. 6-8 forward Bryson Hampton a transfer for Seward County CC is the tallest of the Riverside starters. He averages 4.8 points and rebounds per game. The Highlanders shoot only 32.3% from 3 point range and 40.6% overall. In fact, in terms of three point shooting the Highlanders tend not to loft threes. They have only made 20 this year (out of 62) with Imperial Valley CC transfer Brandon Dowdy leading way by making 8 or the team’s 20. It seems NU won’t have to worry about the Highlanders beating them from behind the arc. The week’s next opponent, Florida State, might be a different story.
Prediction: Despite the fact the two teams’ combined record is 7-1 this game should go to the Wildcats in a manner similar to the Texas A&M-CC game. I say Northwestern, 77 UC-Riverside, 63.
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