While Adrian Peterson waved to his fans in his hometown of Palestine Saturday morning, there were some folks up north who were not all too happy about Peterson riding in the back of a car.
According to reports by ESPN and the Associated Press, Minnesota Viking head coach Brad Childress was not thrilled about Peterson being in Palestine. The reason: this weekend was the Vikings' mandatory minicamp.
Here are some of the comments Childress made in the Associated Press story.
“I just know that there’s a bunch of guys here,” Childress said. “This has the term mandatory for a reason. The work’s here.”
AND
“I don’t know if it’s going to be like every year they’re going to have that,” Childress said, “but we’re going to have this too.”
Childress may even be more upset because according to the Associated Press story, Peterson did not tell his head coach about not being there until last week.
Palestine has held an Adrian Peterson Day each of the last four years since Peterson was drafted by the Vikings. While it is nice for his hometown to honor the running back, maybe they should check the Vikings' schedule first to see if there are any conflicting dates.
In an story last week in the Herald-Press, previewing Adrian Peterson Day, Peterson's aunt and event organizer Carol Pegues said one of the reasons was so local young people and athletes can meet Peterson and learn what can be accomplished from hard work.
Maybe all Peterson showed them this time was how to skip out on a mandatory practice. Probably not the right message he needs to be sending to those he is trying to reach out to.
Saturday, June 12, 2010
Friday, June 4, 2010
Dogwood circle losing a good one
Earlier this week, Curt Faigle resigned as the Grapeland athletic director and head football coach. With this happening, the area is losing a very good coach and a very good person. I have had the chance to work for Coach Faigle for the last three years during his tenure as Grapeland's athletic program leader. In my experiences with Coach Faigle, he has always been open and honest and has been a great pleasure to work with. There was never a time where I would leave a message for Coach Faigle and within the next few hours I would get a phone call back. Does not sound like a big deal, but in this business, there are many coaches that don't return phone calls. Coach Faigle is one of the good guys and I wish him the best in his future.
Saturday, March 13, 2010
STATE CHAMPIONSHIP GAME - Slocum vs Bronte
STATE CHAMPS. STATE CHAMPS. STATE CHAMPS. CAYUGA WINS STATE CHAMPIONSHIP. OW MY GOSH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Overtime
MISSED SHOT MALCOME FOULED!!!!!!!!!!
Overtime
36 sec - Billy Duncan fouled and goes to line for 2 FT. Makes both, up by five!!!!!!!!
Overtime
Misses both Cayuga up 3
Overtime
1:01 - Blocking call on Cayuga and that sends Bronte back to line for two FTs. Misses the first and Bronte calls a full timeout. Cayuga to lead by at least two after next free throw. Anderson checks in and Traylon goes out. Best free throw shooters on floor for Cayuga
Overtime
1:20 - Bronte fouls Traylon, who goes to line for 1-and-1. Traylon makes one. Up by three
OVERTIME
Cayuga defensive rebound. 1:33 working clock.
Overtime
THREE ANDERSON, Cayuga up by two
Overtime
2:25 - Bronte at line for two FTs. Anderson checks back in. Bronte makes one and up by one.
Overtime
PUTBACK SHEAD, tied game.
Overtime
Cayuga has not been able to crash boards and are only outrebounding Bronte 46-36 now
Overtime
3:31 - Cayuga has to use their only timeout in overtime because cannot get ball in. Bronte leads by two.
Overtime
Bronte takes first lead by two
Fourth Quarter
Cayuga goes down low but Wagner can't get basket as double teamed. Going to OT
Fourth Quarter
9 seconds left and Cayuga takes a timeout, last one 30 seconds. Going to set up a play to win this game. Traylon Shead checks back in. Look for some kind of shot early on and Cayuga crash the boards. WHAT A GAME!!!!!!!!!!
Fourth Quarter
Cayuga looks like playing for last shot.
Fourth Quarter
43 sec - Missed three pointer by Bronte and Cayuga has ball with game tied. Billy and Preston check back in
Fourth Quarter
55 sec - Timeout Bronte has Cayuga traps ball. WOW WHAT A GAME!!!!!! Cayuga needs to find a stop on defense. Can't let Rawls get any kind of look. What about the freshman Anderson, he is a pure shooter and when they get hot, it is something special.
Fourth Quarter
PRESTON ANDERSON 3 POINTER!!!!! TIE GAME!!!!! 59 seconds left
Fourth Quarter
1:14 - Bronte gets fouled and at FT line. Misses both, Cayuga down 3
Fourth Quarter
Jenkins trying to find some kind of combination right now to put on floor as Cayuga misses twice but gets ball back. Preston Anderson 3! Down three
Fourth Quarter
Cayuga calls a much needed full timeout. Something has to happen on this possession. Cayuga forcing too many three pointers (6-of-31 from behind the arc). Could be their downfall.
Fourth Quarter
I know still 1:55 left, but it is slipping away. To get to the championship game and have this happen, it is heart breaking to say the least. Bronte leads by six points.
Fourth Quarter
My hands are shaking as Bronte going to be going up by four with 2:13 to play.
Fourth Quarter
By the way, my heart will not stop racing!
Fourth Quarter
Rawls three pointer and Bronte up by four with three to play. But Duncan gets thre of own
Fourth Quarter
3:54 - Malcome picks up fourth foul on block and Bronte takes one-point lead on three point play.
Fourth Quarter
Wagner 1-2 from FT and Cayuga up two. Misses golden chance as Kennedy steal but shot missed by Cayuga
Fourth Quarter
Duncan fouls Rawls on a three point shot and he gets three FTs. That also puts Bronte in the bonus. FTs could determine this game. Rawls makes two FT and Cayuga leads by one
Fourth Quarter
Kennedy putback and Cayuga up by three
Fourth Quarter
6:32 - Billy Duncan gets fouled and gets two FTs. That puts Bronte over seven fouls, Duncan makes one and Cayuga leads by one.
Fourth Quarter
CJ Wagner ties game at 44-44 after Billy gets three pointer. Crazy game right now, Cayuga just needs to keep pushing ball.
End of Third Quarter
Bronte leads 42-39 going into fourth quarter. Wow what a game, again many not expecting this kind of game but give it to Bronte for giving Cayuga everything they got. Fourth quarter will come down to can Cayuga stop Dakota Rawls, who already has 21 points and can hit from anywhere on floor? Can Cayuga show their senior leadership and come up with big plays down the stretch? This is the time for Malcome Kennedy and Traylon Shead to lead the way just like in football!
Third Quarter
Three pointer Duncan, down by one
Third Quarter
Thee pointer by Rawls and Bronte back up by four. All of a sudden Bronte gets flow back on their side
Third Quarter
Bronte gets basket to get lead back and Malcome gets called for a charge for third foul and he comes out.
Third
Cayuga leads as Traylon steal and layup. And gets ball back on turnover. Momentum shifting!
Third Quarter
Preston Anderson 3 pointer cuts lead to one.
Third Quarter
2-for-19 three pointers by Cayuga. Shooting may cost them a championship
Third Quarter
3:06 - Dakota Rawls cleans up offensive rebound with a dunk and Bronte leads 35-31. That leads to Jenkins calling a full timeout. Cayuga not looking in sync on offense and not being able to run at all as Bronte getting back on defense. They need to look inside to Traylon Shead and pound the boards. Can see Bronte's confidence continue to rise after each minute and each basket.
Third Quarter
Dakota Rawls with another dunk and Bronte leads 33-31.
Third Quarter
Traylon Shead with another putback and Cayuga ties game 31-31. Then Traylon gets block on other end of court
Third Quarter
Dalevin Campbell makes one FT and then gets a jump ball to give Cayuga possession. Bronte leads by 2.
Third Quarter
5:54 - Bronte takes a 30-second timeout as one of their players has blood on elbow and they don't want to sub.
Third Quarter
5:55 - Bronte strikes first again in the half with a three pointer and leads 31-28
Third Quarter
6:50 - No one has scored in the second half. Each time has had a couple of looks but nothing has gone down
Halftime
Game is tied 28-28 at halftime. Maybe a little (or a lot closer) than some would have thought, but should not be a surprise with a team like Bronte being able to make this a game. Cayuga is not shooting like they did Thursday morning where the 3-point shot gave them a big lead. This morning, Cayuga is only 2-of-17 in three pointers as Cayuga went 0-for-14 to start the game before Preston Anderson and Billy Duncan. From the field, Cayuga is shooting only 30 percent. On the plus side, the Wildcats have outrebounded Bronte 23-4, including 14 offensive rebounds. Cayuga has to tighten up its half-court defense. Bronte has been patient on offense, waiting for Cayuga to over pursue or make a mistake and then Longhorns getting someone underneath basket for open shot. Cayuga needs to be sure it does not give up the middle. Also need to make sure Dakota Rawls is covered at all times, right now he has 14 of Bronte's 28 points. Look for Traylon Shead to stick on him in the second half.
As far as stats, C.J. Wagner leads Cayuga with 10 points as he has cleaned up on the board. Traylon Shead got out to a quick start and has eight points and eight rebounds. The bench has disappeared for Cayuga as Preston Anderson's thee pointer is Cayuga's only bench points.
Second Quarter
Billy Duncan 3 pointer but Rawls hits a three pointer with three seconds left to tie game 28-28 at halftime
Second Quarter
1:25 - Bronte again holding ball at midcourt, slowing down the pace as Cayuga leads by 2. Bronte been patient on offense and results in Rawls close shot to tie game.
Second Quarter
3 by Anderson and Cayuga leads by 2
Second Quarter
Bronte just working ball around the top, running some clock and not looking to attack Cayuga defense. Transition and CJ Wagner layup gives Cayuga lead
Second Quarter
4:21 - Right now Greg Jenkins trying to find a combination from the bench that is going to produce. Nothing working from the bench
Second Quarter
5:17 - Wagner cleans up own shot and lead back to one. Pace being played high speed right now in Cayuga favor. The Wildcats have 10 second chance points and are outrebounding Bronte 17-2. Wildcats need to keep going to boards as that is what is keeping them in game despite shooting 0-12 thre pointers and 31 percent from floor
Second Quarter
6:08 - Billy Duncan gets fouled while shooting a three pointer and gets 3 FTs. He makes two and lead cut to one
Second Quarter
6:56 - Preston Anderson trying to find his shot but 0-4 from three pointers. Cayuga continues to get
Second Quarter
7:09 - Wagner again on a putback to cut lead to three points and Cayuga gets a turnover
Second Quarter
7:30 - Bronte's Rob Rosson slips into the paint wide open for layup for 19-14 lead. Someone blew responsibility on defense and Jenkins calls a full timeout. Right now Cayuga defense being shredded apart in the half-court sets.
Second Quarter
7:45 - CJ Wagner with putback to cut lead to 17-14. Cayuga has to take advantage of size inside.
End First Quarter
Bronte leads 17-12 to start the first quarter. Not what expected by the Wildcats, who shot 6-of-17 from the field and are 0-for-7 from three-point range. Much different from Thursday's game were Cayuga hit first four three pointers. With Malcome picking up the two fouls, that changed Cayuga's defensive pressure and Bronte been able to find ways to get to basket. Traylon Shead has come out strong with eight of Cayuga's 12 points.
First Quarter
1:14 - Dakota Rawls scores five quick points and Bronte leads 15-12. Coming back in are two starters, Billy Duncan and Traylon Shead. Look for Shead to stick to Rawls
First Quarter
2:16 - Traylon gets a tip in, his sixth point of game. Cayuga leads 12-10 as Preston Anderson, Caleb Sumemrville and D'onte Jackson all check in
First Quarter
3 min - Shak Jenkins down low and Cayuga leads 10-8
First Quarter
3:44 - Malcome Kennedy picks up two fouls in span of 30 seconds. Traylon Shead going to check if for Malcome. This is where not having Chris Turner hurts Wildcats.
First Quarter
Traylon Steal and dunk and Cayuga leads 8-7
First Quarter
4:31 - Traylon Shead with a putback as he has four quick points. Cayuga trails 7-6
First Quarter
5:20 - Dakota Rwals throws down a dunk for 5-2 lead. Cayuga trying to figure out 2-3 zone. Inside to Traylon for layup. Lead down to one
First Quarter
6:02 - Cayuga gets its first basket as C.J. Wagner gets break away layup on transition. Bronte turns ball over and Cayuga has it back.
First Quarter
6:21 - Bronte strikes first with a three pointer and Cayuga has their fourth turnover of the game.
First Quarter
Another turnover by Bronte as Cayuga defense traps ball handler and he travels. But Cayuga turns ball over again down low.
First Quarter
Really quickly, Cayuga turns ball over trying to go inside but Bronte throws ball away.
Pregame
It is finally here, the Class A, Division I state championship game between Cayuga and Bronte. Cayuga is trying to become only the fourth team in school history to win a state title in football and basketball during the same school year. The Wildcats have won 21 straight games since opening the season with two consecutive losses. The Wildcats will be without back up point guard Chris Turner, who had to have surgery on a finger Thursday after injuring it in the game against Spurger. As Greg Jenkins said after the game, that could give Cayuga even more motivation for this one. 15 minutes to go, can't wait till this one gets started.
Overtime
MISSED SHOT MALCOME FOULED!!!!!!!!!!
Overtime
36 sec - Billy Duncan fouled and goes to line for 2 FT. Makes both, up by five!!!!!!!!
Overtime
Misses both Cayuga up 3
Overtime
1:01 - Blocking call on Cayuga and that sends Bronte back to line for two FTs. Misses the first and Bronte calls a full timeout. Cayuga to lead by at least two after next free throw. Anderson checks in and Traylon goes out. Best free throw shooters on floor for Cayuga
Overtime
1:20 - Bronte fouls Traylon, who goes to line for 1-and-1. Traylon makes one. Up by three
OVERTIME
Cayuga defensive rebound. 1:33 working clock.
Overtime
THREE ANDERSON, Cayuga up by two
Overtime
2:25 - Bronte at line for two FTs. Anderson checks back in. Bronte makes one and up by one.
Overtime
PUTBACK SHEAD, tied game.
Overtime
Cayuga has not been able to crash boards and are only outrebounding Bronte 46-36 now
Overtime
3:31 - Cayuga has to use their only timeout in overtime because cannot get ball in. Bronte leads by two.
Overtime
Bronte takes first lead by two
Fourth Quarter
Cayuga goes down low but Wagner can't get basket as double teamed. Going to OT
Fourth Quarter
9 seconds left and Cayuga takes a timeout, last one 30 seconds. Going to set up a play to win this game. Traylon Shead checks back in. Look for some kind of shot early on and Cayuga crash the boards. WHAT A GAME!!!!!!!!!!
Fourth Quarter
Cayuga looks like playing for last shot.
Fourth Quarter
43 sec - Missed three pointer by Bronte and Cayuga has ball with game tied. Billy and Preston check back in
Fourth Quarter
55 sec - Timeout Bronte has Cayuga traps ball. WOW WHAT A GAME!!!!!! Cayuga needs to find a stop on defense. Can't let Rawls get any kind of look. What about the freshman Anderson, he is a pure shooter and when they get hot, it is something special.
Fourth Quarter
PRESTON ANDERSON 3 POINTER!!!!! TIE GAME!!!!! 59 seconds left
Fourth Quarter
1:14 - Bronte gets fouled and at FT line. Misses both, Cayuga down 3
Fourth Quarter
Jenkins trying to find some kind of combination right now to put on floor as Cayuga misses twice but gets ball back. Preston Anderson 3! Down three
Fourth Quarter
Cayuga calls a much needed full timeout. Something has to happen on this possession. Cayuga forcing too many three pointers (6-of-31 from behind the arc). Could be their downfall.
Fourth Quarter
I know still 1:55 left, but it is slipping away. To get to the championship game and have this happen, it is heart breaking to say the least. Bronte leads by six points.
Fourth Quarter
My hands are shaking as Bronte going to be going up by four with 2:13 to play.
Fourth Quarter
By the way, my heart will not stop racing!
Fourth Quarter
Rawls three pointer and Bronte up by four with three to play. But Duncan gets thre of own
Fourth Quarter
3:54 - Malcome picks up fourth foul on block and Bronte takes one-point lead on three point play.
Fourth Quarter
Wagner 1-2 from FT and Cayuga up two. Misses golden chance as Kennedy steal but shot missed by Cayuga
Fourth Quarter
Duncan fouls Rawls on a three point shot and he gets three FTs. That also puts Bronte in the bonus. FTs could determine this game. Rawls makes two FT and Cayuga leads by one
Fourth Quarter
Kennedy putback and Cayuga up by three
Fourth Quarter
6:32 - Billy Duncan gets fouled and gets two FTs. That puts Bronte over seven fouls, Duncan makes one and Cayuga leads by one.
Fourth Quarter
CJ Wagner ties game at 44-44 after Billy gets three pointer. Crazy game right now, Cayuga just needs to keep pushing ball.
End of Third Quarter
Bronte leads 42-39 going into fourth quarter. Wow what a game, again many not expecting this kind of game but give it to Bronte for giving Cayuga everything they got. Fourth quarter will come down to can Cayuga stop Dakota Rawls, who already has 21 points and can hit from anywhere on floor? Can Cayuga show their senior leadership and come up with big plays down the stretch? This is the time for Malcome Kennedy and Traylon Shead to lead the way just like in football!
Third Quarter
Three pointer Duncan, down by one
Third Quarter
Thee pointer by Rawls and Bronte back up by four. All of a sudden Bronte gets flow back on their side
Third Quarter
Bronte gets basket to get lead back and Malcome gets called for a charge for third foul and he comes out.
Third
Cayuga leads as Traylon steal and layup. And gets ball back on turnover. Momentum shifting!
Third Quarter
Preston Anderson 3 pointer cuts lead to one.
Third Quarter
2-for-19 three pointers by Cayuga. Shooting may cost them a championship
Third Quarter
3:06 - Dakota Rawls cleans up offensive rebound with a dunk and Bronte leads 35-31. That leads to Jenkins calling a full timeout. Cayuga not looking in sync on offense and not being able to run at all as Bronte getting back on defense. They need to look inside to Traylon Shead and pound the boards. Can see Bronte's confidence continue to rise after each minute and each basket.
Third Quarter
Dakota Rawls with another dunk and Bronte leads 33-31.
Third Quarter
Traylon Shead with another putback and Cayuga ties game 31-31. Then Traylon gets block on other end of court
Third Quarter
Dalevin Campbell makes one FT and then gets a jump ball to give Cayuga possession. Bronte leads by 2.
Third Quarter
5:54 - Bronte takes a 30-second timeout as one of their players has blood on elbow and they don't want to sub.
Third Quarter
5:55 - Bronte strikes first again in the half with a three pointer and leads 31-28
Third Quarter
6:50 - No one has scored in the second half. Each time has had a couple of looks but nothing has gone down
Halftime
Game is tied 28-28 at halftime. Maybe a little (or a lot closer) than some would have thought, but should not be a surprise with a team like Bronte being able to make this a game. Cayuga is not shooting like they did Thursday morning where the 3-point shot gave them a big lead. This morning, Cayuga is only 2-of-17 in three pointers as Cayuga went 0-for-14 to start the game before Preston Anderson and Billy Duncan. From the field, Cayuga is shooting only 30 percent. On the plus side, the Wildcats have outrebounded Bronte 23-4, including 14 offensive rebounds. Cayuga has to tighten up its half-court defense. Bronte has been patient on offense, waiting for Cayuga to over pursue or make a mistake and then Longhorns getting someone underneath basket for open shot. Cayuga needs to be sure it does not give up the middle. Also need to make sure Dakota Rawls is covered at all times, right now he has 14 of Bronte's 28 points. Look for Traylon Shead to stick on him in the second half.
As far as stats, C.J. Wagner leads Cayuga with 10 points as he has cleaned up on the board. Traylon Shead got out to a quick start and has eight points and eight rebounds. The bench has disappeared for Cayuga as Preston Anderson's thee pointer is Cayuga's only bench points.
Second Quarter
Billy Duncan 3 pointer but Rawls hits a three pointer with three seconds left to tie game 28-28 at halftime
Second Quarter
1:25 - Bronte again holding ball at midcourt, slowing down the pace as Cayuga leads by 2. Bronte been patient on offense and results in Rawls close shot to tie game.
Second Quarter
3 by Anderson and Cayuga leads by 2
Second Quarter
Bronte just working ball around the top, running some clock and not looking to attack Cayuga defense. Transition and CJ Wagner layup gives Cayuga lead
Second Quarter
4:21 - Right now Greg Jenkins trying to find a combination from the bench that is going to produce. Nothing working from the bench
Second Quarter
5:17 - Wagner cleans up own shot and lead back to one. Pace being played high speed right now in Cayuga favor. The Wildcats have 10 second chance points and are outrebounding Bronte 17-2. Wildcats need to keep going to boards as that is what is keeping them in game despite shooting 0-12 thre pointers and 31 percent from floor
Second Quarter
6:08 - Billy Duncan gets fouled while shooting a three pointer and gets 3 FTs. He makes two and lead cut to one
Second Quarter
6:56 - Preston Anderson trying to find his shot but 0-4 from three pointers. Cayuga continues to get
Second Quarter
7:09 - Wagner again on a putback to cut lead to three points and Cayuga gets a turnover
Second Quarter
7:30 - Bronte's Rob Rosson slips into the paint wide open for layup for 19-14 lead. Someone blew responsibility on defense and Jenkins calls a full timeout. Right now Cayuga defense being shredded apart in the half-court sets.
Second Quarter
7:45 - CJ Wagner with putback to cut lead to 17-14. Cayuga has to take advantage of size inside.
End First Quarter
Bronte leads 17-12 to start the first quarter. Not what expected by the Wildcats, who shot 6-of-17 from the field and are 0-for-7 from three-point range. Much different from Thursday's game were Cayuga hit first four three pointers. With Malcome picking up the two fouls, that changed Cayuga's defensive pressure and Bronte been able to find ways to get to basket. Traylon Shead has come out strong with eight of Cayuga's 12 points.
First Quarter
1:14 - Dakota Rawls scores five quick points and Bronte leads 15-12. Coming back in are two starters, Billy Duncan and Traylon Shead. Look for Shead to stick to Rawls
First Quarter
2:16 - Traylon gets a tip in, his sixth point of game. Cayuga leads 12-10 as Preston Anderson, Caleb Sumemrville and D'onte Jackson all check in
First Quarter
3 min - Shak Jenkins down low and Cayuga leads 10-8
First Quarter
3:44 - Malcome Kennedy picks up two fouls in span of 30 seconds. Traylon Shead going to check if for Malcome. This is where not having Chris Turner hurts Wildcats.
First Quarter
Traylon Steal and dunk and Cayuga leads 8-7
First Quarter
4:31 - Traylon Shead with a putback as he has four quick points. Cayuga trails 7-6
First Quarter
5:20 - Dakota Rwals throws down a dunk for 5-2 lead. Cayuga trying to figure out 2-3 zone. Inside to Traylon for layup. Lead down to one
First Quarter
6:02 - Cayuga gets its first basket as C.J. Wagner gets break away layup on transition. Bronte turns ball over and Cayuga has it back.
First Quarter
6:21 - Bronte strikes first with a three pointer and Cayuga has their fourth turnover of the game.
First Quarter
Another turnover by Bronte as Cayuga defense traps ball handler and he travels. But Cayuga turns ball over again down low.
First Quarter
Really quickly, Cayuga turns ball over trying to go inside but Bronte throws ball away.
Pregame
It is finally here, the Class A, Division I state championship game between Cayuga and Bronte. Cayuga is trying to become only the fourth team in school history to win a state title in football and basketball during the same school year. The Wildcats have won 21 straight games since opening the season with two consecutive losses. The Wildcats will be without back up point guard Chris Turner, who had to have surgery on a finger Thursday after injuring it in the game against Spurger. As Greg Jenkins said after the game, that could give Cayuga even more motivation for this one. 15 minutes to go, can't wait till this one gets started.
Friday, March 12, 2010
Slocum vs Nazareth, Class A, Division II semifinals
End of game
Game is over as Nazareth wins 57-48. No doubt, difference in game when all is said and done was Slocum only making 4-of-16 from the free-throw line while Nazareth 13-of-17. Despite the loss, Slocum needs to be proud of what they accomplished. Losses the Class A player of the year off of last year's team and ends up holding No. 1 ranking the whole year and getting back to the state tournament for the second time in school history. Just tonight, it was one of those games.
Fourth Quarter
OK, one more unprofessional comment. Refs have been very inconsistent. Not a reason why Slocum lost (4-for-16 FT shooting one of the reasons), but still, refs have not been that good. Expect a little better in state tournament game.
Fourth Quarter
Slocum trying to hang in there as lead has gone from 19 to 6 points. Swifts to the FT line for 1-and-1, makes one but Nazareth offensive rebound second and back to FT line. This one is over.
Fourth Quarter
53 sec - Turnover and goes back to Slocum. Bickerstaff two points and down by six.
Fourth Quarter
58 sec - Prater makes both FTs and Slocum trails by 8
Fourth Quarter
1:13 While Slocum only 2-for-14 FT, Nazareth 10-for-13. Steven Prater going to the line for one and one with Swifts leading by 10
Fourth Quarter
When Slocum tries to foul they can't get a call and then Foster steals ball and gets fouled while shooting. 1:15 left and Slocum down by nine going to the line for two. 1-for-12 so far from FT line. Foster makes one and down by 8
Fourth Quarter
Slocum just makes first FT and trails by 9
Fourth Quarter
1:54 - Bickerstaff to the line with Slocum trailing by 10 points. Got to make the FTs!
Fourth Quarter
2:!2- Slocum's Fletcher Larkin his a three pointer and lead down to 10 points. By the way, Slocum 0-for-10 in FTs. Difference in game?
Fourth Quarter
2:58 - As for the game, Slocum trails 50-37 with just under three minutes to play. Nazareth may start to stall and if so, Slocum can either foul, sending a good free throw team to the line or go for the steals.
Fourth Quarter
3:41 - Slocum's Kendell Redd fouls out. It is a shame that something like that happens in final game of career. He is a heck of a player and really became something for Slocum the last two years. He became the sixth man last year and played a huge role in the championship game because of foul trouble. This year, he moved into a starer role and was a great defensive player.
Fourth Quarter
OK, I know this may not be very professional, but the Nazareth fans behind me are really annoying! I guess a million times to the state tournament gives fans the chance to act like, well you know what.
Fourth Quarter
4:39 - Redd hits a three pointer to cut lead to 16, first points for Slocum in quarter.
Fourth Quarter
More bad news to report. Nazereth three pointer from corner and then steal and layup. This one looks to be done even with 5 minutes left. Nazareth has scored the first eight points of the quarter to start running away with this one. Seems like this is what happens when teams get to Austin, once it starts to roll the wrong way, there is not much a team can do to get back into it. That is what is happening to Slocum right now
Fourth Quarter
6:04 - Nazareth now has a 14-point lead. Slocum getting one and done as Nazerth cleaning up on the defensive boards
Fourth Quarter
12 point lead for Nazareth. Slocum not able to get anything going there way.
Fourth Quarter
7:08 - Nazareth gets 10 point lead and Slocum throws ball away. Right now things not going Mustangs way, got to turn it around real quickly or else, no repeat of a state title.
Fourth Quarter
Nazareth opens fourth with basket as loose ball goes straight to player underneath basket.
End Third Quarter
Steven Prater steals the inbound pass, after missed shot Slocum gets ball back and Thomason hits long jumper with one second left. Nazareth leads 35-29 going into fourth quarter. Slocum chipped into lead, now needs to make that charge in the fourth quarter. Thomason playing like he needs to with 14 points. Foster did not pick up another foul in the quarter so he still has three. This is going to come down to getting defensive stops and making most of opportunities on offense because Nazareth will start to stall soon in the fourth if they have the lead.
Third Quarter
Nazareth trying to go four corners but stolen by Redd for layup with 20 sec left. Lead 35-27
Third Quarter
Looks like Bickerstaff is mugged after a defensive rebound but no call as ball goes OB to Swifts
Third Quarter
Foster misses 2nd FT but Bickerstaff with offensive rebound and Mustangs have ball back and Thomason long jumper and lead is now 32-25
Third Quarter
2:18 - Logan going to the line for two FTs. Slocum still has not hit a FT and Logan misses first one and the Nazareth calls a timeout. Not sure what is going on with the FT situation but Slocum 0-for-7 with Foster getting one more
Third Quarter
2:35 - The refs are consistent on the charge calls as Nazareth just gets called for two. Top scorer Sage Black picks up his third foul but stays in game.
Third Quarter
3:19 - Redd dish to Thomason for layup and lead cut to 32-23. Turnover Swifts, Slocum needs to take advantage.
Third Quarter
It is very interesting how refs are letting both teams play and then out of nowhere a big whistle. It has been a little inconsistent right now.
Third Quarter
Another close blank shot missed by Slocum, 9-of-31 shooting.
Third Quarter
5:19 - Foster gets his first two points of game but Nazareth right back to keep 11 point lead. Steal and two more for Swifts.
Third Quarter
5:41 - Logan Foster nearly picks up his fourth foul, but a block called instead. Nazareth still leads 28-17
Third Quarter
5:52 - In just over two minutes, Redd picks up three fouls. He will stay in the game but Slocum in major foul trouble. Three for Redd and Foster, two for Bickerstaff
Third Quarter
6:11 - Kendell Redd get called for a charge, Slocum third charge of the game. Nazareth just packing the middle of the lane.
Third Quarter
7:04 - Slocum does not pick up coming down the court and an easy layup by Nazareth who now leads 26-15.
Halftime
Nazareth's Sage Black hits a three pointer with 30 seconds left and the Swifts have a 24-15 lead. Slocum has some work ahead of them in the second half, but from we have seen last week, the Mustangs have the ability to come back from a deficit. Mustangs have had some good looks, but are 7-of-25 shooting. Randall Thomason leads the team with eight point on 4-of-10 shooting. In the second half, Logan Foster cannot pick up his fourth foul and be back on the bench. Nazareth looking for Foster to drive to the hoop and putting a body under the basket looking for a call. Both times the call went Nazareth's way. Slocum just needs to stop giving up offensive rebounds and needs to be able to knock down the close looks that they are getting.
Second Quarter
2:03 - Randall Thomason with a long two pointer to cut lead to six points. Slocum needs big things from Thomason with Foster on the bench. Mustangs need to try to keep close and get into lockerroom where they can make some adjustments.
Second Quarter
2:32 - Nazareth 19-11 as one Slocum player picks another and Swifts get an easy layup.
Second Quarter
4:06 - Slocum trails 17-11 and Steven Prater to the line for two. Slocum has missed all four FTs so far and Prater misses both as well. What is going on
Second Quarter
5:49 - Logan Foster picks up his third foul - second charge, and he is on the bench for remainder of quarter. Slocum just needs to stay in the game in this half.
Second Quarter
Another offensive rebound and putback for Swifts who have a 17-9 lead.
Second Quarter
6:18 - Slocum with a turnover after Nazareth takes a 15-9 leads prompts Slocum head coach Jay Bruce to take a timeout. Slocum playing out of sync against a tough Nazareth defense. The shots have been there but Slocum just seems to be playing too fast right now.
Second Quarter
7:03 - Randall Thomason gets a basket inside but Nazareth with another offensive rebound and putback along with foul on Thomason for a free throw. FT missed but Nazareth leads 13-9. Right now, Nazareth taking advantage of offensive rebounds.
Second Quarter
7:23 - Dillon Bickerstaff picks up his second foul and looks like Logan going to check in for him. Nazareth two FTs and leads 11-7
Second Quarter
The second quarter starts with Logan Foster remaining on the bench as Fletcher Larkin is in the game for him.
End First Quarter
Randall Thomason gets a basket in the lane to cut the lead to 9-7 at the end of the first quarter. The first quarter ends quickly as both teams struggling from the field. Both teams shooting 3-for-12 in the first quarter. Only difference right now is a pair of free throws by the Swifts. Not sure if it is paying in this arena or nerves, but Slocum has had some point blank shots that they have not been able to put down.
First Quarter
15 sec - Logan Foster just picks up his second foul, critical for the Mustangs as he goes to the bench. Wonder if he will stay there at the start of the second. Nazareth hits 2 FTs and leads 9-5
First Quarter
1:40 - Nazareth's Sid Sheffy hits a three pointer and the Swifts lead 7-5.
First Quarter
2:18 - Slocum still leads 5-4 as both teams are a combined 4-for-18 shooting. A lot like last year's championship game between the two teams.
First Quarter
Slocum is only 1-for-7 to start the game. Mustangs have missed some point black shots. But Randall Thomason gets a shot in and Slocum leads 5-4.
First Quarter
4:30 - Dillon Bickerstaff gets Slocum on the board with a three pointer from the corner. Nazareth leads 4-3.
First Quarter
5:45 - Nazareth gets on the board first with a layup. The Swifts have three offensive rebounds already.
First Quarter
6:22 - No score in first minute and a half. Each team has a turnover to start out with.
Pregame
Not much pregame as teams are being introduced. Traffic in Austin, like usual, was just aweful as we sat in traffic forever, arriving just 15 minutes before the start of the game. But we made it and I am here typing. So whey! Let's get this one started.
Game is over as Nazareth wins 57-48. No doubt, difference in game when all is said and done was Slocum only making 4-of-16 from the free-throw line while Nazareth 13-of-17. Despite the loss, Slocum needs to be proud of what they accomplished. Losses the Class A player of the year off of last year's team and ends up holding No. 1 ranking the whole year and getting back to the state tournament for the second time in school history. Just tonight, it was one of those games.
Fourth Quarter
OK, one more unprofessional comment. Refs have been very inconsistent. Not a reason why Slocum lost (4-for-16 FT shooting one of the reasons), but still, refs have not been that good. Expect a little better in state tournament game.
Fourth Quarter
Slocum trying to hang in there as lead has gone from 19 to 6 points. Swifts to the FT line for 1-and-1, makes one but Nazareth offensive rebound second and back to FT line. This one is over.
Fourth Quarter
53 sec - Turnover and goes back to Slocum. Bickerstaff two points and down by six.
Fourth Quarter
58 sec - Prater makes both FTs and Slocum trails by 8
Fourth Quarter
1:13 While Slocum only 2-for-14 FT, Nazareth 10-for-13. Steven Prater going to the line for one and one with Swifts leading by 10
Fourth Quarter
When Slocum tries to foul they can't get a call and then Foster steals ball and gets fouled while shooting. 1:15 left and Slocum down by nine going to the line for two. 1-for-12 so far from FT line. Foster makes one and down by 8
Fourth Quarter
Slocum just makes first FT and trails by 9
Fourth Quarter
1:54 - Bickerstaff to the line with Slocum trailing by 10 points. Got to make the FTs!
Fourth Quarter
2:!2- Slocum's Fletcher Larkin his a three pointer and lead down to 10 points. By the way, Slocum 0-for-10 in FTs. Difference in game?
Fourth Quarter
2:58 - As for the game, Slocum trails 50-37 with just under three minutes to play. Nazareth may start to stall and if so, Slocum can either foul, sending a good free throw team to the line or go for the steals.
Fourth Quarter
3:41 - Slocum's Kendell Redd fouls out. It is a shame that something like that happens in final game of career. He is a heck of a player and really became something for Slocum the last two years. He became the sixth man last year and played a huge role in the championship game because of foul trouble. This year, he moved into a starer role and was a great defensive player.
Fourth Quarter
OK, I know this may not be very professional, but the Nazareth fans behind me are really annoying! I guess a million times to the state tournament gives fans the chance to act like, well you know what.
Fourth Quarter
4:39 - Redd hits a three pointer to cut lead to 16, first points for Slocum in quarter.
Fourth Quarter
More bad news to report. Nazereth three pointer from corner and then steal and layup. This one looks to be done even with 5 minutes left. Nazareth has scored the first eight points of the quarter to start running away with this one. Seems like this is what happens when teams get to Austin, once it starts to roll the wrong way, there is not much a team can do to get back into it. That is what is happening to Slocum right now
Fourth Quarter
6:04 - Nazareth now has a 14-point lead. Slocum getting one and done as Nazerth cleaning up on the defensive boards
Fourth Quarter
12 point lead for Nazareth. Slocum not able to get anything going there way.
Fourth Quarter
7:08 - Nazareth gets 10 point lead and Slocum throws ball away. Right now things not going Mustangs way, got to turn it around real quickly or else, no repeat of a state title.
Fourth Quarter
Nazareth opens fourth with basket as loose ball goes straight to player underneath basket.
End Third Quarter
Steven Prater steals the inbound pass, after missed shot Slocum gets ball back and Thomason hits long jumper with one second left. Nazareth leads 35-29 going into fourth quarter. Slocum chipped into lead, now needs to make that charge in the fourth quarter. Thomason playing like he needs to with 14 points. Foster did not pick up another foul in the quarter so he still has three. This is going to come down to getting defensive stops and making most of opportunities on offense because Nazareth will start to stall soon in the fourth if they have the lead.
Third Quarter
Nazareth trying to go four corners but stolen by Redd for layup with 20 sec left. Lead 35-27
Third Quarter
Looks like Bickerstaff is mugged after a defensive rebound but no call as ball goes OB to Swifts
Third Quarter
Foster misses 2nd FT but Bickerstaff with offensive rebound and Mustangs have ball back and Thomason long jumper and lead is now 32-25
Third Quarter
2:18 - Logan going to the line for two FTs. Slocum still has not hit a FT and Logan misses first one and the Nazareth calls a timeout. Not sure what is going on with the FT situation but Slocum 0-for-7 with Foster getting one more
Third Quarter
2:35 - The refs are consistent on the charge calls as Nazareth just gets called for two. Top scorer Sage Black picks up his third foul but stays in game.
Third Quarter
3:19 - Redd dish to Thomason for layup and lead cut to 32-23. Turnover Swifts, Slocum needs to take advantage.
Third Quarter
It is very interesting how refs are letting both teams play and then out of nowhere a big whistle. It has been a little inconsistent right now.
Third Quarter
Another close blank shot missed by Slocum, 9-of-31 shooting.
Third Quarter
5:19 - Foster gets his first two points of game but Nazareth right back to keep 11 point lead. Steal and two more for Swifts.
Third Quarter
5:41 - Logan Foster nearly picks up his fourth foul, but a block called instead. Nazareth still leads 28-17
Third Quarter
5:52 - In just over two minutes, Redd picks up three fouls. He will stay in the game but Slocum in major foul trouble. Three for Redd and Foster, two for Bickerstaff
Third Quarter
6:11 - Kendell Redd get called for a charge, Slocum third charge of the game. Nazareth just packing the middle of the lane.
Third Quarter
7:04 - Slocum does not pick up coming down the court and an easy layup by Nazareth who now leads 26-15.
Halftime
Nazareth's Sage Black hits a three pointer with 30 seconds left and the Swifts have a 24-15 lead. Slocum has some work ahead of them in the second half, but from we have seen last week, the Mustangs have the ability to come back from a deficit. Mustangs have had some good looks, but are 7-of-25 shooting. Randall Thomason leads the team with eight point on 4-of-10 shooting. In the second half, Logan Foster cannot pick up his fourth foul and be back on the bench. Nazareth looking for Foster to drive to the hoop and putting a body under the basket looking for a call. Both times the call went Nazareth's way. Slocum just needs to stop giving up offensive rebounds and needs to be able to knock down the close looks that they are getting.
Second Quarter
2:03 - Randall Thomason with a long two pointer to cut lead to six points. Slocum needs big things from Thomason with Foster on the bench. Mustangs need to try to keep close and get into lockerroom where they can make some adjustments.
Second Quarter
2:32 - Nazareth 19-11 as one Slocum player picks another and Swifts get an easy layup.
Second Quarter
4:06 - Slocum trails 17-11 and Steven Prater to the line for two. Slocum has missed all four FTs so far and Prater misses both as well. What is going on
Second Quarter
5:49 - Logan Foster picks up his third foul - second charge, and he is on the bench for remainder of quarter. Slocum just needs to stay in the game in this half.
Second Quarter
Another offensive rebound and putback for Swifts who have a 17-9 lead.
Second Quarter
6:18 - Slocum with a turnover after Nazareth takes a 15-9 leads prompts Slocum head coach Jay Bruce to take a timeout. Slocum playing out of sync against a tough Nazareth defense. The shots have been there but Slocum just seems to be playing too fast right now.
Second Quarter
7:03 - Randall Thomason gets a basket inside but Nazareth with another offensive rebound and putback along with foul on Thomason for a free throw. FT missed but Nazareth leads 13-9. Right now, Nazareth taking advantage of offensive rebounds.
Second Quarter
7:23 - Dillon Bickerstaff picks up his second foul and looks like Logan going to check in for him. Nazareth two FTs and leads 11-7
Second Quarter
The second quarter starts with Logan Foster remaining on the bench as Fletcher Larkin is in the game for him.
End First Quarter
Randall Thomason gets a basket in the lane to cut the lead to 9-7 at the end of the first quarter. The first quarter ends quickly as both teams struggling from the field. Both teams shooting 3-for-12 in the first quarter. Only difference right now is a pair of free throws by the Swifts. Not sure if it is paying in this arena or nerves, but Slocum has had some point blank shots that they have not been able to put down.
First Quarter
15 sec - Logan Foster just picks up his second foul, critical for the Mustangs as he goes to the bench. Wonder if he will stay there at the start of the second. Nazareth hits 2 FTs and leads 9-5
First Quarter
1:40 - Nazareth's Sid Sheffy hits a three pointer and the Swifts lead 7-5.
First Quarter
2:18 - Slocum still leads 5-4 as both teams are a combined 4-for-18 shooting. A lot like last year's championship game between the two teams.
First Quarter
Slocum is only 1-for-7 to start the game. Mustangs have missed some point black shots. But Randall Thomason gets a shot in and Slocum leads 5-4.
First Quarter
4:30 - Dillon Bickerstaff gets Slocum on the board with a three pointer from the corner. Nazareth leads 4-3.
First Quarter
5:45 - Nazareth gets on the board first with a layup. The Swifts have three offensive rebounds already.
First Quarter
6:22 - No score in first minute and a half. Each team has a turnover to start out with.
Pregame
Not much pregame as teams are being introduced. Traffic in Austin, like usual, was just aweful as we sat in traffic forever, arriving just 15 minutes before the start of the game. But we made it and I am here typing. So whey! Let's get this one started.
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Cayuga vs. Spurger, Class A, Division I staet semifinals
Fourth Quarter
Freshman Deon Shoffer gets a basket in the state tournament. Cayuga going to win this one, leading 80-44 right now. Going to call it a morning for the blog. Look for stories on the Herald-Press web site later today.
Fourth Quarter
2:59 - Zac Bowman gets his first two points of the game on a putback. Cayuga 74-39.
Fourth Quarter
3:39 - Dalevin Campbell with another three pointer and Cayuga leads 72-39. Cayuga has made 7-of-12 three pointers. They have shot astonishing 62 shots in the game.
Fourth Quarter
5:07 - D'onte Jackson hits a 15-footer for his first two points of the game and Cayuga leads 69-39.
Fourth Quarter
6:23 - Here comes the defense again as Billy Duncan gets a steal and feeds to Campbell, who gets the layup and the foul. Makes the FT and Cayuga leads 66-35.
Fourth Quarter
7:09 - Traylon Shead with a putback and Cayuga leads 61-35. Dalevin Campbell and D'onte Jackson check back in for Cayuga.
End Third Quarter
Cayuga goes into the fourth quarter leading 59-35. Unless there is a big letdown from the Wildcats, they will be heading to the state championship game. This game has turned into a defensive showcase by the Wildcats, who have 16 steals, have forced 25 turnovers, 24 points off of turnovers and 29 fast break points. Cayuga set the tempo early on and has not let down.
Third Quarter
13 sec - Cayuga finishes off an 11-0 run on a Jenkins basket. Cayuga leads 59-35.
Third Quarter
59 - Another steal, this time a combo by Kennedy and Billy Duncan leads to Duncan layup. Cayuga leads 57-32.
Third Quarter
1:56 - Kennedy putting on a defensive show, getting his fourth straight steal. He has five points off the steals and Cayuga leads 55-32.
Third Quarter
2:37 - Cayuga has its biggest lead as Malcome Kennedy with steal and layup and Wildcats leads 52-32.
Third Quarter
Spurger just picks up its sixth team foul and Cayuga will be in bonus from here on out.
Third Quarter
With the way Cayuga hitting the three pointer, waiting for freshman Preston Anderson to get involved. He has taken only one three today, which was a long one that missed.
Third Quarter
3:48 - Spurger being very aggressive going after the ball. It has resulted in a few turnovers, but also four team fouls just halfway through the third quarter. Anytime Cayuga gets defensive rebound, couple of Spurger players trying to slap ball away. Pirates also trying to bring late pressure on the inbound pass, which has caught Cayuga off guard a couple of times. Seems like the only thing Spurger can do right now to try and stay in this thing.
Third Quarter
4:02 - HUGE block by Shak Jenkins. What looked to be break away turned into Shak coming back down court and blocking the shot from behind
Third Quarter
5:00 - Spurger putting some pressure on Cayuga off inbound pass and it has resulted in a couple of steals, but each time Cayuga gets ball back.
Third Quarter
Another three points by Cayuga, this time on a three-point play by C.J. Wagner and Cayuga leads 48-29.
3rd Quarter
Three pointer by Duncan and Cayuga leads 45-27. His fourth of the game. He is doing great job looking for his shot today.
3rd Quarter
7:19 - Shak Jenkins starts quarter with basket for 40-23 lead and C.J. Wagner takes a charge. Cayuga rotating well on defense
Halftime
Cayuga leads 38-23 going into halftime. Cayuga has scored 19 points in each half and built as big as a 17-point lead in the second quarter. Cayuga hit from outside to help build this leas as the Wildcats have made five three pointers, led by Billy Duncan's three from behind the arc. Duncan has a team-high 11 points. Dalevin Campbell has given the Wildcats a big spark off the bench with nine points in nine minutes of play. For Spurger, it has been all about Daniel Blankenship and George Whittaker, who had combined for 20 of team's 23 points.
The pace has been in favor of Cayuga, who has 13 points off turnovers and 18 fast break points. Spurger just cannot keep up with the pace Cayuga has set. If that continues in the second half, the Pirates won't get back into the game.
2nd Quarter
1:09 - Steal and layup by Shak Jenkins and then Campbell jumper and Cayuga leads 38-21
2nd Quarter
1:54 - Cayuga starting to get a little careless with basketball as lead cut to 34-21. But Shak Jenkins just gets a charge called on Spurger
2nd Quarter
2:59 - Cayuga calls a full timeout to get its team under control a little bit after the Wildcats got two straight offensive rebounds but could not hit from up close. Spurger now shooting only 33 percent for the game as Cayuga on a 6-0 run.
2nd Quarter
3:23 - Chris Turner gets steal but then goes hard to the court and looks to be a little shaken up. He is heading back to the locker room with Cayuga AD Tommy Allison
2nd Quarter
4:21 - Chris Turner in transition for layup and now as steal by Kennedy. Cayuga leads 32-17 and starting to open this one up.
2nd Quarter
5:08 - Steal by Chris Turner, who picks off pass and takes it other way for break away layup and Cayuga leads 28-17. Spurger calls 30 second TO. That is Cayuga's fifth steal and Spruger's eighth turnover
2nd Quarter
5:45 - Pull up jumper by CJ Wagner and Cayuga leads 26-15. Right now, the pace in Cayuga's favor as Preston Anderson, Chris Turner and Dalevin Campbell waiting to check in.
2nd Quarter
6:47 - Billy Duncan with long three pointer and Cayuga leads 24-13. Duncan's third three pointer of the game and Cayuga's fifth.
2nd Quarter
Cayuga starts the second by getting turnover on trap and leads to Malcome Kennedy layup between two Spurger players to lead 21-13.
End of First Quarter
Preston Anderson misses a long three pointer with two seconds left to end the quarter. Cayuga leads 19-13 after the first quarter. Cayuga has the lead despite shooting under 36 percent for the game, but it has been the shots from the outside that have sparked the Wildcats. Cayuga makes four three pointers and gets at three-point play in the first quarter. Coach Jenkins came into the game feeling like Cayuga would have to hit from outside for the Wildcats to win.
First Quarter
21 sec - Two straight TOs by Spurger and Cayuga has last possession.
First Quarter
1:02 - Caleb Summerville down low and he gets fouled while making the shot. Summerville makes FT and Cayuga leads 19-13. Great to see Caleb on the floor here is Austin.
First Quarter
Caleb Summerville, Chris Turner and Preston Anderson in the game for Cayuga. Only starter on the floor is Wagner.
First Quarter
1:54- Campbell three pointer and Cayuga leads 16-10. Raining downs three for the Wildcats in the first quarter.
First Quarter
2:47 - Malcome Kennedy three pointer and Cayuga leads by three. Three straight threes by Cayuga.
First Quarter
Another three by Duncan ties the game at 10-10. Spruger giving the outside shot and Duncan making them pay. Dalevin Campbell checks in for CJ Wagner.
First Quarter
3:42 - Billy Duncan hits three pointer which cuts lead to one point. Need to be able to make outside shots today.
First Quarter
Spurger's Daniel Blankenship hits a three pointer and Pirates take a 8-4 lead and prompts a Cayuga 30-second timeout. The Wildcats have had some looks but just cannot find bottom of basket.
First Quarter
4:20 - Spurger takes 5-4 lead. On defense, Pirates putting everyone in the lane and Cayuga having trouble getting shots,
Steal by Shead goes to a layup by Billy Duncan for 4-0 lead and Spurger calls a 30 second timeout. How often has it been that we see Cayuga's opponent call a quick timeout after the Wildcat early pressure leads to a steal. This time, Shead and Malcome Kennedy trapped the ball handler that led to steal and basket.
First Quarter
Another foul against Traylon Shead, this time on Spurger's other big man Christian Norsworthy, who just checked in and now will be going back to the bench. Shead hits both FT and Cayuga leads 2-0.
First Quarter
A quick foul on Spurger's big man George Whittaker sends Traylon Shead to the line on Cayuga's first possession. Shead misses both but hustles for the rebound. Ball still goes over for Spurger, who subs for Whittaker
Game time
Teams have been introduced and it is finally game time. Getting the chills, but that is because it is cold here on press row.
Pregame
Just under 10 minutes before Cayuga takes on Spurger in the second of the Class A, Division I state semifinals. This is new ground for the most part for both teams. For Cayuga, it is the school's fifth time at the state tournament, but the last time was in 1958. For Spurger, this is the first time the Pirates have been in Austin for the state tournament.
Cayuga comes into the game ranked No. 1 in the TABC polls with a record of 20-2. The Wildcats have won 20 straight games after losing their first two of the season in the Whataburger Tournament. Spurger is 25th in the TABC polls with a 27-5 record.
This looks to be a matchup of two teams at the opposite ends of the spectrum. Cayuga will run 10-12 deep trying to run and gun whenever possible. Spruger has only nine players on the roster and the Pirates are going to try and slow down the pace and try to beat Cayuga from behind the three-point line.
If this gets into an up tempo contest, Cayuga will be the favorite but as Coach Jenkins told me this week, he is not worried if Spruger does control the tempo. The Cayuga coach believes his team can play at a slower pace, evident by what happened against Marti's Mill in the regional finals.
Freshman Deon Shoffer gets a basket in the state tournament. Cayuga going to win this one, leading 80-44 right now. Going to call it a morning for the blog. Look for stories on the Herald-Press web site later today.
Fourth Quarter
2:59 - Zac Bowman gets his first two points of the game on a putback. Cayuga 74-39.
Fourth Quarter
3:39 - Dalevin Campbell with another three pointer and Cayuga leads 72-39. Cayuga has made 7-of-12 three pointers. They have shot astonishing 62 shots in the game.
Fourth Quarter
5:07 - D'onte Jackson hits a 15-footer for his first two points of the game and Cayuga leads 69-39.
Fourth Quarter
6:23 - Here comes the defense again as Billy Duncan gets a steal and feeds to Campbell, who gets the layup and the foul. Makes the FT and Cayuga leads 66-35.
Fourth Quarter
7:09 - Traylon Shead with a putback and Cayuga leads 61-35. Dalevin Campbell and D'onte Jackson check back in for Cayuga.
End Third Quarter
Cayuga goes into the fourth quarter leading 59-35. Unless there is a big letdown from the Wildcats, they will be heading to the state championship game. This game has turned into a defensive showcase by the Wildcats, who have 16 steals, have forced 25 turnovers, 24 points off of turnovers and 29 fast break points. Cayuga set the tempo early on and has not let down.
Third Quarter
13 sec - Cayuga finishes off an 11-0 run on a Jenkins basket. Cayuga leads 59-35.
Third Quarter
59 - Another steal, this time a combo by Kennedy and Billy Duncan leads to Duncan layup. Cayuga leads 57-32.
Third Quarter
1:56 - Kennedy putting on a defensive show, getting his fourth straight steal. He has five points off the steals and Cayuga leads 55-32.
Third Quarter
2:37 - Cayuga has its biggest lead as Malcome Kennedy with steal and layup and Wildcats leads 52-32.
Third Quarter
Spurger just picks up its sixth team foul and Cayuga will be in bonus from here on out.
Third Quarter
With the way Cayuga hitting the three pointer, waiting for freshman Preston Anderson to get involved. He has taken only one three today, which was a long one that missed.
Third Quarter
3:48 - Spurger being very aggressive going after the ball. It has resulted in a few turnovers, but also four team fouls just halfway through the third quarter. Anytime Cayuga gets defensive rebound, couple of Spurger players trying to slap ball away. Pirates also trying to bring late pressure on the inbound pass, which has caught Cayuga off guard a couple of times. Seems like the only thing Spurger can do right now to try and stay in this thing.
Third Quarter
4:02 - HUGE block by Shak Jenkins. What looked to be break away turned into Shak coming back down court and blocking the shot from behind
Third Quarter
5:00 - Spurger putting some pressure on Cayuga off inbound pass and it has resulted in a couple of steals, but each time Cayuga gets ball back.
Third Quarter
Another three points by Cayuga, this time on a three-point play by C.J. Wagner and Cayuga leads 48-29.
3rd Quarter
Three pointer by Duncan and Cayuga leads 45-27. His fourth of the game. He is doing great job looking for his shot today.
3rd Quarter
7:19 - Shak Jenkins starts quarter with basket for 40-23 lead and C.J. Wagner takes a charge. Cayuga rotating well on defense
Halftime
Cayuga leads 38-23 going into halftime. Cayuga has scored 19 points in each half and built as big as a 17-point lead in the second quarter. Cayuga hit from outside to help build this leas as the Wildcats have made five three pointers, led by Billy Duncan's three from behind the arc. Duncan has a team-high 11 points. Dalevin Campbell has given the Wildcats a big spark off the bench with nine points in nine minutes of play. For Spurger, it has been all about Daniel Blankenship and George Whittaker, who had combined for 20 of team's 23 points.
The pace has been in favor of Cayuga, who has 13 points off turnovers and 18 fast break points. Spurger just cannot keep up with the pace Cayuga has set. If that continues in the second half, the Pirates won't get back into the game.
2nd Quarter
1:09 - Steal and layup by Shak Jenkins and then Campbell jumper and Cayuga leads 38-21
2nd Quarter
1:54 - Cayuga starting to get a little careless with basketball as lead cut to 34-21. But Shak Jenkins just gets a charge called on Spurger
2nd Quarter
2:59 - Cayuga calls a full timeout to get its team under control a little bit after the Wildcats got two straight offensive rebounds but could not hit from up close. Spurger now shooting only 33 percent for the game as Cayuga on a 6-0 run.
2nd Quarter
3:23 - Chris Turner gets steal but then goes hard to the court and looks to be a little shaken up. He is heading back to the locker room with Cayuga AD Tommy Allison
2nd Quarter
4:21 - Chris Turner in transition for layup and now as steal by Kennedy. Cayuga leads 32-17 and starting to open this one up.
2nd Quarter
5:08 - Steal by Chris Turner, who picks off pass and takes it other way for break away layup and Cayuga leads 28-17. Spurger calls 30 second TO. That is Cayuga's fifth steal and Spruger's eighth turnover
2nd Quarter
5:45 - Pull up jumper by CJ Wagner and Cayuga leads 26-15. Right now, the pace in Cayuga's favor as Preston Anderson, Chris Turner and Dalevin Campbell waiting to check in.
2nd Quarter
6:47 - Billy Duncan with long three pointer and Cayuga leads 24-13. Duncan's third three pointer of the game and Cayuga's fifth.
2nd Quarter
Cayuga starts the second by getting turnover on trap and leads to Malcome Kennedy layup between two Spurger players to lead 21-13.
End of First Quarter
Preston Anderson misses a long three pointer with two seconds left to end the quarter. Cayuga leads 19-13 after the first quarter. Cayuga has the lead despite shooting under 36 percent for the game, but it has been the shots from the outside that have sparked the Wildcats. Cayuga makes four three pointers and gets at three-point play in the first quarter. Coach Jenkins came into the game feeling like Cayuga would have to hit from outside for the Wildcats to win.
First Quarter
21 sec - Two straight TOs by Spurger and Cayuga has last possession.
First Quarter
1:02 - Caleb Summerville down low and he gets fouled while making the shot. Summerville makes FT and Cayuga leads 19-13. Great to see Caleb on the floor here is Austin.
First Quarter
Caleb Summerville, Chris Turner and Preston Anderson in the game for Cayuga. Only starter on the floor is Wagner.
First Quarter
1:54- Campbell three pointer and Cayuga leads 16-10. Raining downs three for the Wildcats in the first quarter.
First Quarter
2:47 - Malcome Kennedy three pointer and Cayuga leads by three. Three straight threes by Cayuga.
First Quarter
Another three by Duncan ties the game at 10-10. Spruger giving the outside shot and Duncan making them pay. Dalevin Campbell checks in for CJ Wagner.
First Quarter
3:42 - Billy Duncan hits three pointer which cuts lead to one point. Need to be able to make outside shots today.
First Quarter
Spurger's Daniel Blankenship hits a three pointer and Pirates take a 8-4 lead and prompts a Cayuga 30-second timeout. The Wildcats have had some looks but just cannot find bottom of basket.
First Quarter
4:20 - Spurger takes 5-4 lead. On defense, Pirates putting everyone in the lane and Cayuga having trouble getting shots,
Steal by Shead goes to a layup by Billy Duncan for 4-0 lead and Spurger calls a 30 second timeout. How often has it been that we see Cayuga's opponent call a quick timeout after the Wildcat early pressure leads to a steal. This time, Shead and Malcome Kennedy trapped the ball handler that led to steal and basket.
First Quarter
Another foul against Traylon Shead, this time on Spurger's other big man Christian Norsworthy, who just checked in and now will be going back to the bench. Shead hits both FT and Cayuga leads 2-0.
First Quarter
A quick foul on Spurger's big man George Whittaker sends Traylon Shead to the line on Cayuga's first possession. Shead misses both but hustles for the rebound. Ball still goes over for Spurger, who subs for Whittaker
Game time
Teams have been introduced and it is finally game time. Getting the chills, but that is because it is cold here on press row.
Pregame
Just under 10 minutes before Cayuga takes on Spurger in the second of the Class A, Division I state semifinals. This is new ground for the most part for both teams. For Cayuga, it is the school's fifth time at the state tournament, but the last time was in 1958. For Spurger, this is the first time the Pirates have been in Austin for the state tournament.
Cayuga comes into the game ranked No. 1 in the TABC polls with a record of 20-2. The Wildcats have won 20 straight games after losing their first two of the season in the Whataburger Tournament. Spurger is 25th in the TABC polls with a 27-5 record.
This looks to be a matchup of two teams at the opposite ends of the spectrum. Cayuga will run 10-12 deep trying to run and gun whenever possible. Spruger has only nine players on the roster and the Pirates are going to try and slow down the pace and try to beat Cayuga from behind the three-point line.
If this gets into an up tempo contest, Cayuga will be the favorite but as Coach Jenkins told me this week, he is not worried if Spruger does control the tempo. The Cayuga coach believes his team can play at a slower pace, evident by what happened against Marti's Mill in the regional finals.
Bronte wins first semifinal game
In the first Class A, Division I semifinal game in Austin Thursday morning, Bronte shook off a sluggish start to defeat Gruver xx-xx. The Longhorns play the winner of Cayuga and Spruger in the championship game at 8:30 a.m. Saturday.
Gruver led by three at haftime and by five in the third quarter but Bronte got hot near the end of the third quarter and the game was tied in the early moments of the fourth quarter. Bronte then hit two three pointers and from there it was all Longhorns.
Bronte's Dakota Rawls, a 6-5 guard, led the Longhorns with 26 points and 10 rebounds.
Gruver led by three at haftime and by five in the third quarter but Bronte got hot near the end of the third quarter and the game was tied in the early moments of the fourth quarter. Bronte then hit two three pointers and from there it was all Longhorns.
Bronte's Dakota Rawls, a 6-5 guard, led the Longhorns with 26 points and 10 rebounds.
Getting ready for the state tournament
In Austin this morning at the Frank Erwin Center, waiting for Cayuga to play its semifinal game. First off though is Gruver vs. Bronte in the first semifinal game. Cayuga has a chance if it wins the state title this weekend to win a title in both football and basketball. I talked to a UIL representative this morning and was told that it has happened three times before - a team winning both in football ans basketball. I also asked about how many times a county had three state champions in basketball. It could happen for Anderson County after Neches girls won last week and Cayuga and Slocum playing this week. However, that question was a little tougher and could not be answered. Maybe by the end of the weekend, we will have an answer to that one.
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