If you're a MWC, WAC or Big Sky fan, we've got
you covered. Follow KSL.com as we keep you up
to date with coverage of the conference
tournaments in Reno, Ogden and Las Vegas.
Seth
Stoker, KSL.com contributor March 20, 3:20 pm
Jimmer Fredette has been the hottest name in the NCAA tournament so far. Just about every major news outlet has done a piece on him, and love the storylines
from his background concerning playing pickup games at local prisons, training with his brother, etc.
In fact, at 1:30 A.M. as I was driving I tuned into a national sports radio show in which the host teased Fredette's story before the show went to a
commercial break. No matter where I look, I find something about Fredette. I think the nation's surprise and fascination with Fredette may shed some light on
the MWC TV deal, as very few people knew who he was before the tourney.
Drop 37 points against an SEC team on national TV, and suddenly everyone knows your name.
Here are some links Cougar fans might find interesting:
First, here's a CBS segment that shows a small part of KSU's film session in preparation for BYU. http://www.cbs.com/sports/video/?
pid=OtiPowaL13GPfv05hzlGBXgTOH25mP0o&vs=NCAA Men\'s Basketball&play=true
Want to know what song Fredette listens to before every game? A rap song called "Amazing" written by his brother, T.J. Fredette. Here's a video that T.J. put
together that features clips of the two Fredettes growing up and playing basketball. It even shows a couple of Jimmer's football highlights. http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=1337386591244
Lastly, the same columnist at cbssports.com, who couldn't stop lauding Fredette before and after the first game, now thinks that it's Kansas State's guards
who will have the upper hand. http://www.cbssports.com/collegebasketball/story/13085517/byukansas-state-talk-might-be-focused-on-wrong-matchup?
tag=headlines;other
I'm interested to see if the Cougars come out playing a little more loose in today's game now that they have achieved a tournament victory. Several Cougars
looked very timid on the court against Florida, and if it wasn't for the poise of Fredette and Mike Loyd, the Cougars would already be back in Provo.
Seth
Stoker, KSL.com contributor March 19, 10:51 am
The BYU men's basketball team played in one of the many exciting games on the first day of what looks to be an unbelievable NCAA tournament. Jimmer
Fredette and Michael Loyd's breakout performances on the national stage sparked the interest of many national media outlets. Here's an ESPN article on Jimmer
Fredette's 37-point performance: http://sports.espn.go.com/ncb/tournament/2010/columns/story?columnist=forde_pat&id=5007344
The MWC had an interesting day yesterday, as New Mexico and BYU moved on, while SDSU and UNLV both had chances to win but were unable to get wins against
Tennessee and Northern Iowa, respectively. It makes me wonder how UNLV would have played if the Northern Iowa players were sporting BYU jerseys.
The Cougars now turn their attention to Kansas State, who blew out North Texas 82-62. The Wildcats have been highly ranked for much of the season, and even
looked to have a chance for a No. 1 seed for a while. On paper, there seem to be quite a few statistical categories in this matchup that favor BYU.
Kansas State ranks No. 232 in turnovers per game at 14.5. Forcing turnovers and capitalizing on them with transition baskets is a strength for BYU, and if the
Cougars can convert Kansas State turnovers into points, they should be able to stay in their transition game.
The Wildcats are also ranked No. 148 in the country in 3-point field goal percentage defense. The Cougars, on the other hand, are third in 3-point field goal
shooting percentage. If the Wildcats can't guard the Cougars' 3-point shots, and BYU gets hot, the Wildcats could be in for a long Saturday night.
Here's the kicker. Only six teams nationwide foul more than the Wildcats. That could especially good news for Fredette, who has a knack for creating contact.
What's more, the Cougars lead the nation in free throw percentage, meaning if Kansas State puts the Cougars on the line, it plays right into the Cougars'
hands.
The Wildcats hold some serious advantages as well. Offensive rebounding killed the Cougars yesterday, as Florida grabbed 20 for the game. The Kansas State
players are just as athletic and have as much size as Florida, which could be a problem. The Wildcats grabbed 17 offensive rebounds against North Texas
yesterday. The Cougars will have to do a better job on the boards if they want to win the game.
KSU is ranked No. 29 in rebounding margin. The Wildcats can also score the ball, 9ranking No. 13 in the country in scoring, at 79.6 ppg.
Seth Stoker,
KSL.com contributor March 18, 1:03
pm
Well, there you have it, folks. After 17 years, BYU has
finally won an NCAA tournament game. It wasn't easy, but
the Cougars were able to get it done with some exceptional
play from guards Jimmer Fredette and Mike Loyd, who
finished with 37 and 26 points, respectively.
The Cougars may have never made it to either overtime if
it wasn't for Loyd's clutch free throw shooting. What a
game.
Seth Stoker,
KSL.com contributor March 18, 12:02
pm
BYU has taken an eight point lead against the Gators with
7:28 remaining ing in the game. Jimmer Fredette has taken
over, scoring 20 points with an array of drives to the
basket. All the Cougars have to do now is keep Florida
from going on a run, and they should be able to win the
game.
Seth Stoker,
KSL.com contributor March 18, 11:12
am
It's halftime in Oklahoma City as BYU leads Florida 35-33
at the half. Noah Hartsock fouled Florida guard Kenny
Boynton on a 3-point shot late in the half, giving the
freshman three free throws to pull the Gators to within
two.
Mike Loyd Jr. has been a revelation for the Cougars,
scoring 10 consecutive points to lead the Cougars at the
half. The Cougars have capitalized on takeaways, scoring
nine points off turnovers in the game.
Seth Stoker,
KSL.com contributor March 18, 10:55
am
Mike Loyd Jr. has come into the game and sparked the
Cougars to gain the lead. Loyd singlehandledly went on a
10-0 run to lead BYU to a 31-28 lead. This kid has peaked
at the perfect time for the Cougars.
Seth Stoker,
KSL.com contributor March 18, 10:48
am
With just less than eight minutes to go in the first half,
the Cougars trail Florida 24-19. Jimmer Fredette leads the
Cougars with eight points on 4-of-8 shooting. The Gators
have hit three 3-point shots, helping them jump out to an
early lead.
Seth Stoker,
KSL.com contributor March 18, 10:06
am
We're only 20 minutes from tipoff on the first day (that
matters) of the NCAA tournament. BYU will face Florida in
the first game of the day at 10:20 MST.
Here's a good read on BYU guard Jimmer Fredette while
you're preparing for the game: http://www.cbssports.com/colleg
ebasketball/story/13075539/byus-fredette-might-make-
tourney-his-comingout-party?
tag=pageRow;pageContaine
Apparently, CBS Sports Columnist Gregg Doyel thinks Jimmer
Fredette is this year's Stephen Curry.
The matchup with Florida should be a good one for the
Cougars, at least on paper. BYU may get away with playing
a lot of zone defense because of the Gators' struggles
from the 3-point line. It will be interesting to see how
Florida's frontcourt size will affect BYU's offensive and
defensive game plans.
I fully expect the BYU guards to take advantage of
Florida's lack of size on the guard line. Fredette should
have a big day. The question is whether or not he will
share the ball in the process. I think if he does the
Cougars will win.
Keep in mind, in his breakout game against Arizona,
Fredette had nine assists, which is one of the things that
made him so effective. His sharing of the ball kept the
Arizona defenders honest, forcing them to guard the entire
BYU team.
Tyler Huskinson,
KSL.com contributor March 13, 11:20
pm
Junior forward Tai Wesley broke his nose only one minute
into the game. His status for any game next week is
unknown.
Tyler Huskinson,
KSL.com contributor March 13, 11:15
pm
The Utah State Aggies will have to leave their NCAA
tournament hopes to chance, as they fell to the New Mexico
State Aggies, 69-63 here in Reno.
Robert Jackson,
KSL.com sports writer March 13, 10:21
pm
KSL Sports ▶ Bad weekend for all local teams; Utah
State falls to New Mexico State 69-63 #fb
Robert Jackson,
KSL.com sports writer March 13, 9:49
pm
KSL Sports ▶ Tournament bid on the line- Utah State
trails 60-55 with under four to go #fb
Tyler Huskinson,
KSL.com contributor March 13, 9:48
pm
Second upset of the WAC Tournament may be on hand. Utah
State trails New Mexico State, 60-55 with 3:47 left the
game.
Robert Jackson,
KSL.com sports writer March 13, 9:25
pm
KSL Sports ▶ WAC Tourney: Utah State is up 40-38
with just under 14 minutes to go. #fb
Tyler Huskinson,
KSL.com contributor March 13, 9:19
pm
Utah State leads the New Mexico State Aggies 37-36 with
15:10 left in the first half in the WAC Championship game
in Reno.
Robert Jackson,
KSL.com sports writer March 13, 8:58
pm
KSL Sports ▶ WAC Tourney: Utah state trails NMSU 28-
26 at the half.
Seth Stoker,
KSL.com contributor March 13, 8:56
pm
As it turns out, things couldn't have worked out any
better for the MWC. The two teams who were guaranteed an
at-large bid to the NCAA tournament fell to the two teams
that weren't necessarily a lock.
If UNLV hadn't already done enough to earn a spot in the
tournament, its win against BYU most likely locked up a
spot for them. San Diego State, however, was relying on a
deep tournament run to find their way in. The team who had
the most to lose ended up winning, all-but guaranteeing
that four MWC teams will see their name in the NCAA
bracket on selection sunday.
I had a chance to ask SDSU Head Coach Steve Fisher about
the quality of the MWC after the game.
"This is high level basketball. I said that yesterday.
Anybody that watched the New Mexico/San Diego State game,
if there were no labels on the jersey, they would say this
is as good as it gets anywhere. And it was," Fisher
said.
He was also pretty confident that four MWC teams would be
invited to the NCAA tournament.
"This is a really good league that has nine teams in it,
and four of us are going to go to the NCAA tournament.
That's representing your league well," he said.
Fisher also spoke of the importance of all four teams
showing well in the NCAA tournament.
"Now what we need to do is step up and win a few games.
That's the challenge we will all face," said Fisher, also
mentioning that New Mexico should receive the highest seed
of any MWC teams. "But we need to roll up our sleeves and
find a way to win some games now."
I don't think enough can be said about the performance of
Kawhi Leonard. with about four minutes to go in the game,
Leonard had already grabbed 18 rebounds. His game total of
21 broke the previous MWC tournament record of 19, and
eclipsed the previous MWC finals record of 16.
The former California Mr. Basketball's performance was
easily the most dominating effort I have ever seen from a
freshman, and one of the best I have ever seen.
Considering what the Aztecs had on the line, the imposing
home crowd and the pressure UNLV's defense applies,
Leonard was nothing short of spectacular.
Leonard isn't, by any means, the biggest guy on the floor.
Rebounding is an effort stat, and that's what sets the
freshman apart. Leonard also connected on eight of his
nine free throw attempts, most of which sealed the game
for the Aztecs. All of this went into my decision to put
him on my ballot for tournament MVP.
Here's the rest of my all-tourney ballot:
Jimmer Fredette BYU 37.5 ppg, 5 apg
Tre'Von Willis UNLV 14 ppg
Billy White SDSU 16.7 ppg, 1.5 spg
Darington Hobson UNM 21.5 ppg, 11 rpg
FYI- Kawhi Leonard's stat line:
14.3 ppg, 13 rpg
UNLV forward Chace Stanback was the only player not on my
ballot to make the all-conference team, averaging 12.3
points and 6.3 rebounds.
San Diego State won the championship in both the men's and
women's tournaments, the second consecutive year both
teams from the same institution have won in the same year
(third overall). New Mexico (2005) and Utah (2009) are the
only other programs to accomplish that feat.
I mentioned that both teams struggled offensively, and the
game proved to be the lowest scoring output in a MWC
championship game ever. Neither team scored until 15:55
remaining in the first half, with the teams combining to
go 0 for 12 from the field. The Aztecs held UNLV to 32
percent shooting, allowing the Rebels to connect on only
six of their MWC record 22 3-point attempts.
Robert Jackson,
KSL.com sports writer March 13, 8:49
pm
KSL Sports ▶ WAC Tourney: New Mexico jumps out in
front, lead 25-21 with 3:54 left in half. #fb
Robert Jackson,
KSL.com sports writer March 13, 7:04
pm
Utah State minutes away from tipoff vs New Mexico State
for WAC championship. Watch on ESPN2.
Robert Jackson,
KSL.com sports writer March 13, 7:03
pm
Aztecs win, 55-45. Final statline for Kawhi Leonard 16
points, 21 rebounds, a new MWC tournament record.
Robert Jackson,
KSL.com sports writer March 13, 6:58
pm
My MWC All-Tournament ballot
Jimmer Fredette, BYU
Darington Hobson, New Mexico
Tre'von Willis, UNLV
Billy White, SDSU
Kawhi Leonard (MVP), SDSU
Robert Jackson,
KSL.com sports writer March 13, 6:56
pm
San Diego State's Kawhi Leonard just tied the MWC
tournament record with 19 rebounds. Leonard, a freshman,
also has 12 points. I just submitted my All-Tournament
selections and I have selected him as tournament
MVP.
Seth Stoker,
KSL.com contributor March 13, 6:33
pm
With 10:24 remaining in the game, the Rebels hold a two
point lead over the Aztecs. Fatigue on both sides is
really starting to show, but the offense for both teams
looks a lot better in the second half. Steve Fisher's
Aztec team may not be an offensive force, but man, can
those guys rebound the basketball.
SDSU freshman Kawhi Leonard is a rebounding machine, and
now has 16 to go with eight points. His performance on the
boards has kept the Aztecs in the game.
Seth Stoker,
KSL.com contributor March 13, 5:56
pm
The scoring finally picked up in the last two minutes of
the half, with San Diego State leading the Rebels at the
half 25-22. The difference in the game has been MWC
freshman of the year Kawhi Leonard, who has single-
handedly outrebounded the Rebels 13-12. Leonard also
dropped in six points before the break.
The Aztecs as a whole have dominated the Rebels on the
glass, 24-12. SDSU has been able to overcome early
shooting woes with eight offensive rebounds, leading to
eight second chance points.
The Rebels are staying in the game by knocking down 3-
pointers. They made three in the first half compared to
none for the Aztecs, but missed eight of their 11
attempts.
SDSU and UNLV are shooting 35.7 percent and 32 percent,
respectively.
Seth Stoker,
KSL.com contributor March 13, 5:35
pm
It feels like we're watching a Ravens vs. Steelers battle
in the Thomas & Mack, as neither team is having much
offensive success. With just less than seven minutes to go
in the first half, the Rebels and Aztecs are locked up at
12 points apiece.
What an unbelievable change from yesterday, when each team
shot the ball extremely well against BYU and New Mexico to
advance to the championship game. The Aztecs are shooting
only 26.3 percent from the field, while the Rebels are
shooting 29.4 percent.
Seth Stoker,
KSL.com contributor March 13, 5:18
pm
Here's a little tidbit I forgot to mention last night. As
I was interviewing BYU guard Jackson Emery, former BYU
great Danny Ainge came back and congratulated Emery on his
effort despite the loss.
It is clear that the current President of Basketball
Operations for the Boston Celtics is still a big supporter
of the program, and knows the BYU players very
well.
Seth Stoker,
KSL.com contributor March 13, 5:12
pm
The championship game is underway, and so far it's a
defensive battle. 17:00 to go in the first half and still
no score.
Last night's semifinal game between UNLV and BYU was the
first sellout in tournament history; a stark contrast from
today's crowd. The upper bowl is pretty much empty, and
there are still some vacant seats in the lower bowl as
well.
Robert Jackson,
KSL.com sports writer March 13, 4:57
pm
The teams split the regular-season series, with UNLV
winning 76-66 at the Thomas & Mack Center on Jan. 13 and
San Diego State claiming the rematch, 68-58, at Viejas
Arena on Feb. 13.
Robert Jackson,
KSL.com sports writer March 13, 4:52
pm
Championship game just 10 minutes away. Here are a few
thoughts to mull over as we approach tipoff.
Both the Aztecs and Rebels have just 1 senior in the
starting lineup. The Rebels are really young, with 2
sophomores and a freshman in their starting 5.
Rebels have won 3 MWC tournament titles, while SDSU has
won two.
Robert Jackson,
KSL.com sports writer March 13, 4:24
pm
MWC Women's All tournament team
Taryn Wicijowski, Utah
Kalee Whipple, Utah
Hillary Carlson, Wyoming
Quenese Davis (MVP), San Diego State
Jene Morris, San Diego State
Robert Jackson,
KSL.com sports writer March 13, 4:10
pm
The Utah women's team battles hard but falls short in the
overtime, losing 70-60 to San Diego State. Men's game set
to tipoff in about an hour.
Robert Jackson,
KSL.com sports writer March 13, 3:56
pm
The Utah women's team is going into overtime tied at 58
with San Diego State for the MWC tourney championship and
an automatic bid to the NCAA tournament.
Seth Stoker,
KSL.com contributor March 13, 1:09
pm
The BYU men's basketball team dropped a tough one in Las
Vegas last night against a very good UNLV game. The
remarkable thing is how much better UNLV becomes when
facing BYU at the Thomas & Mack. I failed to mention last
night that Jimmer Fredette, in only two games, broke Danny
Granger's previous record of 73 total points in the
tournament with 75 total points. He also set the record
for free throws made and attempted, with 36 and 35,
respectively.
I have covered a lot of BYU basketball games and post-game
press conferences this season. Even after the Cougars'
emotional loss to New Mexico in the Marriott Center, I
have never seen Jimmer Fredette react to a loss the way he
did last night. He hung his head and stared at the table,
and didn't even look up to hear the questions reporters
directed at him. His answers were short, and he clearly
didn't want to be there.
It's hard to blame the guy, as there is no question how
bad he wanted the win last night. He and Tre'Von Willis
traded glares throughout the game, and despite Fredette's
30-point output, it was Willis who came away with a
victory. To add insult to injury, Fredette was asked if
Willis, who guarded Fredette for much of the night, was
the best one-on-one defender he'd ever faced.
It was obvious Fredette wasn't excited about praising his
rival, but he gave a gracious response.
"Tre'Von is a good defender. He's quick, athletic, gets up
in you, aggressive," Fredette said. "He's definitely one
of the best defenders. He does a good job."
So what did Fredette think the difference in the game was
that led to the Rebel victory?
They just made shots at the end, made big plays. We
didn't," he said. "That's what happened."
Here are some other leftover notes and quotes from last
night.
Senior Jonathan Tavernari on freshman Brandon
Davies'(three points, six rebounds) post play, and the
decision for him to start in place of Chris Miles:
"Coach felt that was a better matchup for us. In the end
he showed that he's going to be a terrific player,"
Tavernari said. "He rebounded the ball really well towards
the end of the game. He's just a raw talent... You know,
tweak a few things here and there and he's going to have a
bright, bright future at BYU."
On the UNLV side, Chace Stanback (17 points, six rebounds)
and Brice Massamba (13 points, six rebounds) spoke with
the media after the game.
Stanback on the rivalry with BYU:
"BYU is a great team. We know they're going to fight hard
every game. We respect them," Stanback said. "And we just
got to play hard every time we face them. That's what we
did tonight."
Stanback on whether or not this tournament proves the
strength of the conference this year:
"Yeah, I definitely think it was proved tonight.
Obviously, San Diego State won. They had a great game,"
Stanback said. "We played well. There's a lot of talent in
this league. I think people don't really realize that. But
we showed it."
UNLV Head Coach Lon Kruger on UNLV's home-court advantage
in the tournament:
"There's an advantage to some degree. Who knows how much
that is. We have a good basketball team," Kruger said. "If
we weren't a decent team, we wouldn't be there tomorrow.
It's not because we're at home only."
On facing SDSU in the title game Saturday:
"They're playing awfully well. They're rangey, they're
athletic, Coach Fisher has them playing at a very high
level," Kruger said. "Our guys know how tough they are.
The're maybe playing as well as anyone in the conference
right now."
The Rebels will face the Aztecs at 4 p.m. PST. The Rebels
appearance in the MWC tournament title game has become a
pretty safe bet, as UNLV has appeared in seven of the 11
championship games since the inception of the MWC.
BYU set an MWC tournament record with their free throw
shooting, finishing
at 88.9 percent for the tourney.
That's all for now. More to come from the Thomas & Mack
when we get closer to gametime.
Robert Jackson,
KSL.com sports writer March 13, 12:01
pm
The Aggies aren't the only team from Utah playing today.
The Utah women's basketball team is playing San Diego
State for the title.
Robert Jackson,
KSL.com sports writer March 13, 11:56
am
At least one Utah team will be playing in a championship
today. The Utah State Aggies will be playing the New
Mexico State Aggies, who edged Nevada 79-69 last night.
Tipoff will be at 8 PST (7 MST) from Reno on ESPN2.
Tyler Huskinson,
KSL.com
contributor March 12, 11:49
pm
We might have the first upset of the WAC Tournament. The
New
Mexico State Aggies lead the Nevada, 66-65 with 7:50 left
in the
game.
Geoff Gauchay,
KSL.com
contributor March 12, 11:46
pm
UNLV knocks off BYU 70-66 in the second upset of the day
at the
MWC Tournament. SDSU upset top-seeded New Mexico earlier
this
evening.
The MWC Championship game puts UNLV up against SDSU in a
battle
battle for an automatic bid to the Big Dance.
Tyler Huskinson,
KSL.com
contributor March 12, 11:27
pm
The New Mexico State Aggies are leading the Nevada Wolf
Pack in
Reno, 59-54 with 13:34 left in the game.
Geoff Gauchay,
KSL.com
contributor March 12, 11:26
pm
UNLV has helped BYU get back into the game by not
attacking the
hoop the way did earlier in the game. When the Rebels quit
attacking
the Cougars did and now the game is tied.
The crowd is going crazy! The out numbered BYU are getting
loud and
the Rebel faithful are trying to drowned them out. My ears
are
buzzing!
Seth Stoker,
KSL.com
contributor March 12, 11:21
pm
I guess I spoke too soon. Fredette hit a huge NBA-range 3-
pointer, and
got fouled behind the 3-point line on the next possession.
The Cougars
are down 56-59 with 3:14 remaining and Fredette set to
shoot three
free throws.
The Cougars seem to have gained the momentum, thanks in
part to
Brandon Davies, who has gotten every defensive rebound for
the
Cougars after The Rebels last three possessions. 9-2 run
for the
Cougars.
Seth Stoker,
KSL.com
contributor March 12, 11:11
pm
The UNLV defense looks to be too much for the Cougars
right now.
Jackson Emery being in foul trouble (four) doesn't help
the Cougars on
the defensive side of the ball either.
Cougars down 10 with 7:57 remaining.
Seth Stoker,
KSL.com
contributor March 12, 10:56
pm
UNLV guard Tre'Von Willis has all but shut down Jimmer
Fredette. The
BYU guard is clearly frustrated, and he is forcing up a
lot of tough
shots.
Seth Stoker,
KSL.com
contributor March 12, 10:54
pm
Brice Massamba and Chris Miles had a slight confrontation
after a
Miles foul. Miles fouled Massamba fairly hard after
receiving what he
claimed was an elbow from the Rebel center.
Geoff Gauchay,
KSL.com
contributor March 12, 10:44
pm
It was just announced that this is the first sale out that
a MWC Tourney
game has had while playing here at the Thomas & Mack
Center.
It is packed!
Seth Stoker,
KSL.com
contributor March 12, 10:41
pm
I have a decent view of Tyler Haws on BYU's bench, and he
doesn't
look good. His left eye is completely swollen shut, and
he's clearly
uncomfortable. If BYU was to make it to the next round,
it's hard to
imagine Haws getting off the bench.
Seth Stoker,
KSL.com
contributor March 12, 10:35
pm
It's halftime at the Thomas & Mack, and UNLV leads BYU 41-
34. BYU
guard Jimmer Fredette leads the Cougars with 12 points,
but he's
having a much more difficult time getting to the free
throw line against
the Rebels.
Emery recorded six points, shooting 2 for 5 from the
field.
Chace Stanback dropped in 10 points to lead the Rebels,
followed by
Tre'Von Willis with eight points.
The Rebels are shooting 61.5 percent from the field, and
70 percent
from 3-point range.
The Cougars are hanging in there, but have to find a way
to slow down
the Rebels' hot shooting if they want to stay in the
game.
BYU is within seven points, which is respectable after
some of the first
half performances it has put together against the Rebels
in this building.
Seth Stoker,
KSL.com
contributor March 12, 10:10
pm
UNLV still red-hot, shooting 76.5 percent from the field.
When the
Rebels are hitting their threes like this (6 for 7)
they're hard to
beat.
Geoff Gauchay,
KSL.com
contributor March 12, 10:07
pm
The game started off as a three-point shoot-out, but the
Rebels have
since pounded the ball inside out scoring the Cougars 12-6
in the paint.
Seth Stoker,
KSL.com
contributor March 12, 10:05
pm
The Cougars have cooled off quickly. After starting out
shooting 4-of-6
from the field, turnovers and missed shots have forced BYU
to once
again play from behind against UNLV in Vegas.
UNLV up 32-24 with 7:10 remaining in the half.
Geoff Gauchay,
KSL.com
contributor March 12, 9:56
pm
UNLV is on the scoreboard as the visiting team because of
seeding,
but they are playing on their homecourt and it is evident.
The Rebel
faithful outnumber the BYU fans greatly.
The crowd will certainly be a big factor in tonights game.
It is
loud!
Seth Stoker,
KSL.com
contributor March 12, 9:47
pm
It's already shaping up to be a good one, as both teams
have dropped
in an array of 3-point baskets. Jackson Emery leads the
way for the
Cougars, shooting 2-of-2 for six points, while Chace
Stanback hit two
consecutive threes for UNLV.
BYU leads 11-9.
Seth Stoker,
KSL.com
contributor March 12, 9:38
pm
It looks like Mike Loyd will start in place of Haws
tonight. It looks like
BYU Head Coach Dave Rose is opting to go with speed to
match up
with the Rebels.
Brandon Davies has also entered the starting lineup for
the first time
this season. His minutes have been consistently increasing
while the
previous starter, Chris Miles, has seen his minutes
steadily
decrease.
That makes the Cougars' lineup a little small, but size is
rarely the issue
against UNLV. Having another point guard and a quicker
post player
who poses a scoring threat should help the Cougars handle
UNLV's
notorious pressure against BYU guards.
Robert Jackson,
KSL.com sports
writer March 12, 9:35
pm
Sorry guys, I posted this on twitter but not here: KSL
Sports ▶
WAC Tourney: USU wins by 30 over LA Tech, 85-55. Quayle
had 16
for the Aggies
Seth Stoker,
KSL.com
contributor March 12, 9:26
pm
No surprise, but the Cougars were welcomed onto the court
by loud
booing by UNLV fans, drowning out cheers by scattered
Cougar fans.
Three of the four semifinal teams wear red, with BYU as
the odd team
out.
This makes the arena look even more overwhelmingly in
favor of the
home team. If this game ends up being anything like the
early game,
these fans are in for a treat.
San Diego State probably just played their way into the
NCAA
tournament no matter what happens tomorrow. They were
projected
before the game as one of the last teams to get in, but a
victory over
the No. 8 RPI team should get the selection committee's
attention.
Seth Stoker,
KSL.com
contributor March 12, 9:21
pm
I just got another update, as Haws reportedly has a
fractured orbital
bone. The fracture isn't what will keep him from playing
tonight, but the
swelling will. If the swelling is down tomorrow, Haws will
be expected to
play.
Tyler Huskinson,
KSL.com
contributor March 12, 9:20
pm
The Aggies easily took care of the Bulldogs, 85-55. The
Aggies shot an
efficient 58.8 percent from the field and 52.6 from 3-
point land on 10-of-
19 shooting. More to come soon.
Seth Stoker,
KSL.com
contributor March 12, 9:18
pm
I just spoke with Kyle Chilton, the sports information
director for
BYU basketball. It looks like Tyler Haws' eye will be too
swollen for him
to play in tonight's game against the Rebels, and he is
listed as
questionable for tomorrow's championship game if the
Cougars
advance.
Geoff Gauchay,
KSL.com
contributor March 12, 9:10
pm
San Diego State stuns New Mexico in a 72-69 thriller!
The winner of the BYU/UNLV match-up will face SDSU in the
championship tomorrow at 4pm PT.
Geoff Gauchay,
KSL.com
contributor March 12, 9:00
pm
New Mexico will look for the same kind of luck Ohio State
had against
Michigan earlier today.
Geoff Gauchay,
KSL.com
contributor March 12, 8:57
pm
Junior guard D.J. Gray just knocked down a HUGE 3-pt
bucket for the
Aztecs to put them up four with 57 seconds remaining on
the clock.
BIG BUCKET! We could have our first upset of the
tourney.
Geoff Gauchay,
KSL.com
contributor March 12, 8:57
pm
Junior guard D.J. Gray just knocked down a HUGE 3-pt
bucket for the
Aztecs to put them up four with 57 seconds remaining on
the clock.
BIG BUCKET! We could have our first upset of the
tourney.
Geoff Gauchay,
KSL.com
contributor March 12, 8:55
pm
It's gonna be a down to the final second type game.
Billy White just completed a three point play to put the
Aztecs up three,
but then fouled Roman Martinez on a three and Martinez
knocked
down two of his three free throws.
The Aztecs lead with 1:30 left in the game.
Robert Jackson,
KSL.com sports
writer March 12, 8:51
pm
Lobos take the lead with 2:28 remaining. 64-62. By far the
best game in
the MWC this season. Watch now on CBS College Sports. It
is setting
up for a fantastic finish.
Geoff Gauchay,
KSL.com
contributor March 12, 8:45
pm
Do we have our first upset of the tournament in the works?
SDSU is up four with just over five minutes to play. Their
defense
continues to give UNM fits and they are playing with a
chip on their
shoulder.
We'll just have to see, the Lobos do have Player of the
Year Darington
Hobson and he just scored to close the Aztec lead to
two.
Geoff Gauchay,
KSL.com
contributor March 12, 8:40
pm
Robert has mentioned that the atmosphere is intense here
in the
Thomas & Mack and I agree it is!
The lower bowl has been packed all night, but the upper
bowl has
slowly been filling up and looks to be just about full.
The end of this game is sure to be crazy, but the next
match-up
between BYU and the hometown UNLV Rebels is sure to be
insane!
Geoff Gauchay,
KSL.com
contributor March 12, 8:35
pm
The Lobos and Aztecs have just under 10 minutes to battle
out who
gets to to play in tomorrow afternoons championship
game.
While the Aztecs had control of the lead for most of the
first half the
second half has been a back and forth battle.
The Aztecs just knocked down two straight long distance
bombs to take
a five point lead. Chase Tapley knock one down to put his
point total to
9 and Freshman Kawhi Leonard hit the other.
Robert Jackson,
KSL.com sports
writer March 12, 8:28
pm
Incredible atmosphere and great basketball so far here in
Vegas. Lobos
hold a 1 point lead, 55-54. This is turning out to be one
of the best
games that I've been able to see in person.
Robert Jackson,
KSL.com sports
writer March 12, 8:19
pm
2nd half out to an exciting start, as Lobos and Aztecs
trade baskets.
Lobos currently lead by 1, 48-47 with 14:41 left in the
game.
After only 1 lead change in the first half, we've already
had four just
over 5 minutes in.
Tyler Huskinson,
KSL.com
contributor March 12, 8:03
pm
A very surprising first half for the Utah State Aggies.
The Aggies are
shooting lights out, hitting 65 percent of their shots
from the floor and
50 percent from long distance. Jared Quayle and Brady
Jardine have
ten points apiece.
The Aggies held the Bulldogs to just 29.6 percent shooting
from the
floor and a measly 14.3 percent from the 3-point arc. The
Bulldogs are
having a hard time sharing the ball, as they have only two
assists. The
Aggies already have 13 assists.
Geoff Gauchay,
KSL.com
contributor March 12, 7:54
pm
It happened, Dairese Gary drove the ball to the bucket and
the Lobos
now lead for the first time in the game 39-38 at the
break.
Geoff Gauchay,
KSL.com
contributor March 12, 7:51
pm
New Mexico has not had a lead yet in this game. With 26
seconds on
the clock they have the ball with the chance to go into
the half with a
lead.
Seth Stoker,
KSL.com
contributor March 12, 7:51
pm
Members of the UNLV team have begun to file into the
Thomas & Mack
to watch the early game.
Still no sign of the BYU players, although the assistant
coaches for
BYU remain in the seats to my left. They have to all be
hoping that the
scouting report they create from watching this game will
be useful
tomorrow.
Geoff Gauchay,
KSL.com
contributor March 12, 7:47
pm
While it was success from long distance that gave the
Aztecs their early
12 point lead SDSU has pounded the ball into Billy White
who has a
game high 17 points. His post moves and power have been
too much
for the Lobos down low.
Robert Jackson,
KSL.com sports
writer March 12, 7:34
pm
New Mexico battled back to tie the game up at 26 all
before Chase
Tapley knocked down a 3 ball to give the Aztecs a 3 point
lead. Wit
7:49 to go in the half, SDSU leads NM 29-26.
The energy inside the Thomas and Mack Center is
incredible. This is
what March Madness is all about.
Geoff Gauchay,
KSL.com
contributor March 12, 7:31
pm
New Mexico had chipped the SDSU lead down to two points
and the
crowd is going wild for the Lobos.
UNM has decided to quit just taking long distance shots
and they are
now pounding the ball inside and finding success.
Geoff Gauchay,
KSL.com
contributor March 12, 7:28
pm
New Mexico Senior Roman Martinez has just knocked down to
straight
three-point baskets to cut the SDSU lead down to five.
The Lobos are still only shooting 29 percent from long
distance while
the Aztecs have knocked down 4-5 of thier three point
attempts.
Geoff Gauchay,
KSL.com
contributor March 12, 7:19
pm
San Diego has come out on fire shooting the ball. The
Aztecs are 83
percent from the floor while New Mexico has only connected
on 29
percent of thier shots early in the first half.
The Lobos are also being outrebounded 5-1 thus far.
Geoff Gauchay,
KSL.com
contributor March 12, 7:14
pm
The New Mexico fans are in shock after Sand Diego State
has started
the game on a 11-2 run. Freshman Kawhi Leonard has barried
two
three point baskets and Aztec big-man Billy White drained
a long ball
as well. Kelvin Davis just joined the 3-ball club and SDSU
holds a 14-4
lead at the 15:40 mark.
Tyler Huskinson,
KSL.com
contributor March 12, 7:11
pm
Bulldogs Senior Center Magnum Rolle just hit the deck and
was slow
to get up. The team trainer is helping him back to the
locker room and
he is favoring his right leg.
Robert Jackson,
KSL.com sports
writer March 12, 7:09
pm
8 quick points by SDSU and the Lobos call a timeout.
Freshman
standout Kawhi Leonard hit 2 big threes and Malcolm Thomas
slammed
one home that sent the SDSU faithful into a cheer.
Robert Jackson,
KSL.com sports
writer March 12, 7:05
pm
MWC Basketball - New Mexico vs San Diego State seconds
underway.
New Mexico fans have traveled extremely well as the Thomas
and
Mack Center is packed with Lobo red. The excitement and
anticipation
is high for both semifinal games today.
San Diego State is most likely in a must win situation to
stay alive for an
at large NCAA tourney bid.
Seth Stoker,
KSL.com
contributor March 12, 7:03
pm
Only three minutes until tipoff, and a lot has changed.
This Lobo crowd
is just as intimidating as it was yesterday, and the lower
bowl is starting
to fill up.
The boos from Lobo fans have drowned out Aztec fans as the
SDSU
team takes the floor. (Not to mention a flurry of Lobo
fans chanting
"NIT, NIT" as the Aztecs emerged from the tunnel.
BYU assistant coaches are seated about 10 feet to my left,
and all of
them look like they are in the zone. They certainly have a
lot to think
about, as defeating the Rebels here later tonight will be
no easy
task.
Should be a good one.
Seth Stoker,
KSL.com
contributor March 12, 7:03
pm
Only three minutes until tipoff, and a lot has changed.
This Lobo crowd
is just as intimidating as it was yesterday, and the lower
bowl is starting
to fill up.
The boos from Lobo fans have drowned out Aztec fans as the
SDSU
team takes the floor. (Not to mention a flurry of Lobo
fans chanting
"NIT, NIT" as the Aztecs emerged from the tunnel.
BYU assistant coaches are seated about 10 feet to my left,
and all of
them look like they are in the zone. They certainly have a
lot to think
about, as defeating the Rebels here later tonight will be
no easy
task.
Should be a good one.
Tyler Huskinson,
KSL.com
contributor March 12, 6:54
pm
The Utah State Aggies and Louisiana Tech Bulldogs are
about 10
minutes away from tip-off.
Seth Stoker,
KSL.com
contributor March 12, 6:28
pm
I'm back at the Thomas & Mack Center preparing for what is
sure to be
another exciting night of MWC basketball. San Diego State
and New
Mexico are warming up in preparation for their 6 p.m. PST
tip.
In the meantime, here are some scores around the
country.
No. 21 UTEP is cruising through the Conference USA
tournament, and
BYU's win against the Miners without Jimmer Fredette is
looking better
and better every day.
The Miners defeated Central Florida 76-64 Thursday
evening, and
produced another convincing win today, dropping Tulsa 75-
61.
Neither of the Cougars' PAC-10 opponents showed well in
their
conference tournaments, as Arizona fell yesterday to UCLA
75-69, and
Arizona State dropped its game against Stanford 70-61.
Any other year two dominating wins over PAC-10 teams would
be quite
the post-season resume builder, but those wins have become
surprisingly insignificant.
It's easy to tell the MWC is having a strong year,
considering that aside
from UTEP, the Cougars' best wins will probably end up
being against
MWC teams in San Diego State and UNLV.
If the Cougars can finally get past UNLV in Vegas, that
win coupled
with a win over New Mexico in the championship would be a
huge
bump in the Cougars' resume.
New Mexico guard Dairese Gary was a little shaken up after
yesterday's game against Air Force, but he seemed to be
moving
around just fine during warmups today. With 36 minutes
left until tipoff
the arena looks pretty empty. Considering the Lobo fan
base's showing
yesterday, I imagine this game will look a lot like a Lobo
home game as
well.
I'm still not seeing many Cougar fans, and the home crowd
should be
quite overwhelming by the time BYU faces UNLV tonight with
an 8:30
PST tip.
Robert Jackson,
KSL.com sports
writer March 12, 5:29
pm
Congrats to the Utah women's team for defeating TCU in the
semifinals
today. TCU was the regular season MWC champ. The Utes will
face
SDSU tomorrow for the championship.
Seth Stoker,
KSL.com
contributor March 12, 4:19
pm
Haws was poked in the eye early in the second half and did
not return.
He experienced blurred vision and a bloody nose.
Robert Jackson,
KSL.com sports
writer March 12, 3:29
pm
From Greg Wrubell: Tyler Haws (eye) was visiting a local
doctor this
afternoon and did not participate in the team's shoot-
around at Cox
Pavilion. Word is the eye was still very swollen today.
Haws' status for tonight would have to be considered
questionable; if he
can't play, it's likely Mike Loyd would take Haws' place
in the starting
lineup.
Seth Stoker,
KSL.com
contributor March 12, 12:41
am
The stage is set for the semifinal round of the MWC
tournament. No. 4
seed San Diego State will face No. 1 New Mexico in the 6
p.m. game,
followed by No. 2 BYU vs. No. 3 UNLV.
This marks only the second time in MWC history that each
of the top
four seeds have reached the semifinal round.
The Cougars face UNLV, the team that has the highest
winning
percentage in the tournament, at 75 percent.
UNLV's defeat of Utah marked the first time since 2004
that the No. 3
seed has defeated the No. 6 seed.
Here's a couple of leftover quotes from the UNLV post-game
press
conference about the upcoming matchup against BYU.
UNLV Head Coach Lon Kruger on facing BYU on Friday.
"BYU is playing great. Dave always does a terrific job.
Players play with
freedom, they play with confidence. They move the ball.
They play like
a lot of teams I think in the country would like to
play."
"They're fun to watch. Not fun to play against
necessarily. Dave's got
them playing really good basketball."
On defending Jimmer Fredette:
He's great. He's attacking all the time. He's got a great
feel for when
he's got an opening... He's just a terrific player."
"You know he's going to score. You respect that. But try
to make him as
inefficient as possible. But a lot easier said than
done."
That's it for me tonight. Check back tomorrow for all
things
MWC.
Robert Jackson,
KSL.com sports
writer March 11, 11:41
pm
Final from the Thomas and Mack - UNLV 73, Utah 61.
This will be the end of the season for the Utes, as they
will finish with a
losing record for the first time since the 2006-07 season.
Seth Stoker,
KSL.com
contributor March 11, 11:24
pm
I'm waiting to file my post-game story until the
quarterfinal matchup
between Utah and UNLV is over. That way I can include a
preview of
the Cougars' next game knowing who the opponent is.
In the meantime, here's some quotes that won't make it
into the story.
Fredette on the difference between the first and second
halves in
regards to his play:
"Just being aggressive. I got to the foul line a lot,
which was good.
Trying to be aggressive, get to the foul line as much as I
could. I knew
I could make it from there."
On whether or not his performance felt similar to his 49-
point effort ag
Arizona:
"It felt a little different because I didn't shoot well
from the 3-point line.
In Arizona I was shooting the ball a lot better."
Jackson Emery on the rest of his team's effort:
"I thought we played really well on offense. We shared the
ball really
well. That's what got Jimmer open, is because we're so
good at
spreading the ball around that teams just can't double or
trap one guy.
And so when you have to spread 'em out, Jimmjer can do
amazing
things."
It looks like the Rebels are going to come out on top in
the last game of
the night, as they now hold a 66-45 lead over the Utes
with 7:05
remaining. The Rebels should have some interesting things
to say
about playing the Cougars tomorrow, as they always seem to
get up for
that matchup more than any other game.
Robert Jackson,
KSL.com sports
writer March 11, 11:18
pm
UNLV up 17 with 9:06 remaining, 60-43. The Utes are
shooting a
dismal 28% from the field. You're not going to win many
games with
that kind of poor shooting.
Geoff Gauchay,
KSL.com
contributor March 11, 11:01
pm
Jason Washburn picks up his fourth foul at the 16:23 mark
of the
second half. Poor rotations on defense for the Utes have
caused some
of their bigs to get into foul trouble.
The refs are calling this physical match-up tight. At the
15:51 mark of
the second half the refs had called a total of 15 fouls on
the Utes and
13 on the Rebels.
Luka Drca is the other Ute that finds himself in foul
trouble with four,
but Coach Boylen will keep him in the game to help direct
the team in
their attempt to claw back into the game.
Seth Stoker,
KSL.com
contributor March 11, 10:45
pm
The BYU men's basketball team clearly isn't a fan favorite
here at the
Thomas & Mack. During the final quarterfinal matchup, the
MC
announced that BYU guard Jimmer Fredette had set the
record for
scoring in a single game with 45 points against TCU.
The announcement was followed by a chorus of boos from the
crimson-
clad fans of both UNLV and Utah.
Shortly after, the Cougar players filed down the stairs to
leave the
arena, and the crowd once again erupted to show their
disdain for the
No. 2 seeded Cougars.
If UNLV beats Utah, tomorrow's game will probably be a
pretty hostile
environment in favor of the home team.
There are Cougar fans scattered throughout the arena, but
the turnout
was nothing compared to the amount of Lobo fans who showed
up to
New Mexico's quarterfinal matchup earlier today. It will
be interesting to
see if tomorrow's game draws a bigger BYU crowd.
Geoff Gauchay,
KSL.com
contributor March 11, 10:33
pm
The Runnin' Utes were able to grind out a 9-4 run in the
last three and
a half minutes of the first half.
The run was two-fold for Utah. One, they were able to take
the crowd
out of the game to a degree. Two, they were able to gain
some
confidence going into half-time.
If the Utes are able to shock the Rebels tonight they
would have a shot
at revenge against arch-rival BYU in the semi-finals
tomorrow night.
Geoff Gauchay,
KSL.com
contributor March 11, 10:16
pm
Carlon Brown hits a three point basket to break a six and
half minute
scoreless streak for Utes. During the drought UNLV pushed
their lead
to as much as 10 points. The Rebels now lead 25-12 with
4:27
remaining in the first half.
Geoff Gauchay,
KSL.com
contributor March 11, 10:09
pm
UNLV has put a full court press on the Utes and it is
giving them
problems. The Ute guards are flustered and it is causing
Utah's offense
to become stagnant.
The Utes are shooting 18 percent from the floor. Each time
they miss a
shot the Rebel faithful get louder and louder.
The Runnin' Utes find themselves in a hole that will be
extremely
difficult to dig themselves out of.
Geoff Gauchay,
KSL.com
contributor March 11, 9:57
pm
Runnin' Utes hanging with the Rebels. Tied at 8 apeice
with 11:39 in
the first half.
Geoff Gauchay,
KSL.com
contributor March 11, 9:52
pm
Foster returns to the game after leaving earlier with
another ankle
injury. Also Luka Drca is sent to the bench with two early
fouls.
Geoff Gauchay,
KSL.com
contributor March 11, 9:43
pm
Foster comes up lame within the first two and a half
minutes of the
game. Foster has battled his way back into playing shape
after
spraining his ankle last week. Foster has been taken to
the locker room
to be evaluated.
Robert Jackson,
KSL.com sports
writer March 11, 9:33
pm
Fredette finished with 45 points, a new MWC single game
tournament
record. Utah and UNLV just seconds away from
tipoff.
Geoff Gauchay,
KSL.com
contributor March 11, 9:04
pm
Above I mentioned that TCU's Ronnie Moss and BYU's Jimmer
Fredette were in a battle of the guards. Both players had
15 point at the
end of the first half, but Fredette has outscored Moss 28
to 7 in the
second half.
Robert Jackson,
KSL.com sports
writer March 11, 8:58
pm
Fredette has broken the MWC tournament record with 41
points.
Previous high was 35 (Lou Kelley, UNLV 2002) Still 3:07
left to play.
Perhaps he's upset about not being MWC MVP?
Geoff Gauchay,
KSL.com
contributor March 11, 8:54
pm
Jimmer Fredette just drove the ball and got the hoop and
harm. While
Fredette went to the line the BYU faithful started to
chant,
"MVP,MVP,MVP".
Many feel that Fredette should have one the MWC Player of
the Year
honers rather than New Mexico's Darrington Hobson.
Fredette is making his case tonight, with four minutes
remaining
Fredette has 41 of the Cougars 87 points. He's putting on
a
show!
Geoff Gauchay,
KSL.com
contributor March 11, 8:46
pm
The Runnin' Utes just made their way to the locker room to
prepare for
the upcoming contest against the hometown UNLV Rebels.
The Thomas & Mack is starting to fill up more and more as
the
BYU/TCU game moves along. Looking around I see many fans
sporting
Rebels gear, but there are still a few Utah faithful here
to support the
Utes.
Utah will certainly have to play through the noise and
energy of the
Rebel fans, but remember they did it earlier this season
Jan. 16, 73-69
win here at the Thomas & Mack center.
Geoff Gauchay,
KSL.com
contributor March 11, 8:46
pm
The Runnin' Utes just made their way to the locker room to
prepare for
the upcoming contest against the hometown UNLV Rebels.
The Thomas & Mack is starting to fill up more and more as
the
BYU/TCU game moves along. Looking around I see many fans
sporting
Rebels gear, but there are still a few Utah faithful here
to support the
Utes.
Utah will certainly have to play through the noise and
energy of the
Rebel fans, but remember they did it earlier this season
Jan. 16, 73-69
win here at the Thomas & Mack center.
Geoff Gauchay,
KSL.com
contributor March 11, 8:45
pm
The Runnin' Utes just made their way to the locker room to
prepare for
the upcoming contest against the hometown UNLV Rebels.
The Thomas & Mack is starting to fill up more and more as
the
BYU/TCU game moves along. Looking around I see many fans
sporting
Rebels gear, but there are still a few Utah faithful here
to support the
Utes.
Utah will certainly have to play through the noise and
energy of the
Rebel fans, but remember they did it earlier this season
Jan. 16, 73-69
win here at the Thomas & Mack center.
Robert Jackson,
KSL.com sports
writer March 11, 8:34
pm
Cougars starting to separate themselves from TCU, with
Michael Loyd
Jr. coming up with a steal and a slam dunk to give BYU a 6
point lead
with 10:55 remaining.
Geoff Gauchay,
KSL.com
contributor March 11, 8:24
pm
Utah's David Foster and Kim Tillie should both be in
action tonight
against UNLV. Both Ute big-men were out in last weekends
season
finale against Colorado State because both had ankle
injuries. Foster
leads his team and the conference in blocked shots with an
average of
four per game. Tillie is the leading rebounder for the
Utes with 5.6
boards per contest. Their presence in the paint will be
huge for the Utes
tonight.
Robert Jackson,
KSL.com sports
writer March 11, 8:16
pm
Tyler Haws just took a shot to the face and looks to be
bleeding around
his eye. He is being attended to by trainers.
Geoff Gauchay,
KSL.com
contributor March 11, 8:07
pm
The University of Utah men's basketball team just entered
the Thomas
& Mack Center. Most of them are wearing head phones and
have looks
of confidence on their faces. They have taken some seats
right next to
the TCU band and are watching the halftime show. If the
sixth seeded
Utes can knock of UNLV tonight then they will play the
winner of the
BYU/TCU match-up. The second half has started and they are
going to
be able to get some scouting in.
Robert Jackson,
KSL.com sports
writer March 11, 8:06
pm
WAC Tourney: Nevada 47, Idaho 34 at the half
Geoff Gauchay,
KSL.com
contributor March 11, 8:01
pm
It is battle of two high profile guards in the the BYU v.
TCU.
TCU's Ronnie Moss has 15 points, two rebounds and two
helpers in
the first half. Moss is 6-8 from the field including 2-2
from long
distance.
Jimmer Fredette also has 15 points to go along with one
steal, a block
and four rebounds. Fredette is having success taking the
ball to the
rack and getting to the charity stripe.
It should be a fun second half!
Robert Jackson,
KSL.com sports
writer March 11, 7:59
pm
Its the 'battle on the point guards' here in Vegas as BYU
trails TCU 40-
39 at the half. Ronnie Moss has 15 points for TCU while
Jimmer has 15
for the Cougars. TCU is shooting 71% from 3 point land and
got the
final 2 points of the half to take the lead on a layup by
Ronnie Moss.
This is turning out to be nothing like the Cougars last
matchup with
TCU in Fort Worth.
Geoff Gauchay,
KSL.com
contributor March 11, 7:47
pm
Earlier today the lower seeded Air Force squad gave the
top seeded
New Mexico Lobos all they could handle before the Falcons
fell short
75-69. Then San Diego State, the fourth seed, held off
Colorado State,
the fifth seed, 72-71.
The same trend is being followed in the BYU v. TCU
contest. The
second seeded Cougars are in a cat fight with the seventh
seeded
Horned Frogs in a back and forth battle here in the first
half of their
game.
Robert Jackson,
KSL.com sports
writer March 11, 7:38
pm
TCU is shooting lights out from 3 point land, 83.3% (5-6).
Ronnie Moss
has 13 points already for the Frogs, while Jimmer has 11
for the
Cougars. Tyler Haws just added two free throws to tie the
score up at
31 with 6 minutes to go in the half. BYU has shot 10 foul
shots, while
TCU has only shot 2.
Robert Jackson,
KSL.com sports
writer March 11, 7:16
pm
First media timeout, BYU leads TCU 10-8. Fredette has 4
points for the
Cougars while 2 players have 3 points for TCU. The Cougars
are
dictating the tempo of the game, forcing the Frogs into
quick shots and
unforced errors.
Seth Stoker,
KSL.com
contributor March 11, 6:49
pm
The BYU men's basketball team is warming up at the Thomas
& Mack
center for its game against TCU, and a couple of Cougars
are sporting
a new look.
BYU guards Mike Loyd Jr. and Lamont Morgan Jr. have opted
to go
with a "mohawk" look for the first time this season.
Here's a few tidbits from the Rams vs. Aztec game.
During the Rams' second to last possession, freshman guard
Dorian
Green passed the ball to teammate Travis Franklin, but
wasn't able to
connect as the ball went between Franklin and an Aztec
defender out
of bounds.
Green said the mishap was due to a miscommunication.
"He stopped because he thought I was going to shoot it, so
he started
to box out," Green said.
During the postgame press conference, Green was clearly
dissappointed in his decision.
"I should have shot it," Green said, noting he has lost
some confidence
in his midrange game. Green said this loss "is going to
kill me for a
while."
CSU coach Tim Miles said after the game that he would have
liked his
freshman to shoot it as well.
As for the Rams' postseason plans, Miles said his team
just wants to
play, no matter what tournament, if any, chooses to invite
them.
"I hope we get a chance to play in the CBI or CIT or
something," Miles
said. "Let's play. We'll play."
Tyler Huskinson,
KSL.com
contributor March 11, 6:09
pm
Louisiana Tech's leading scorer Kyle Gibson has been
plagued by an
ankle injury and I have been told he still isn't at 100
percent. He
finished with seven points in 33 minutes of action against
Fresno
State.
Seth Stoker,
KSL.com
contributor March 11, 5:52
pm
SDSU coach Steve Fisher put Tapley back in the game with
six
seconds remaining, leading 72-71 and possession of the
ball. Tapley
received the inbounds pass and was fouled, but failed to
convert on his
free-throw attempt. (the front end of a one and one)
Tapley then contested CSU guard Travis Busch's desperation
shot at
the buzzer. Another good game, and this is turning out to
be a great
day of MWC basketball. SDSU will face New Mexico tomorrow
in the
semifinals for a chance to play in the championship game
Saturday
night.
Seth Stoker,
KSL.com
contributor March 11, 5:41
pm
Colorado State isn't the only team to have lost a key
player in the game
against San Diego State. Chase Tapley, a sharp-shooting
Aztec guard,
left the game with 12:06 remaining in the game, and has
not returned.
Tapley was having a great game, scoring 15 points on 6-of-
7 shooting
in 21 minutes of play. It looked like he may have gotten
shaken up in
the first half, which may be influencing his absence
during the last
possessions of the game.
With 35 seconds remaining and Colorado State holding the
lead at 70-
71, the Aztecs just lost another key player, as MWC
Freshman of the
Year Kawhi Leonard fouled out of the game.
It's another nailbiter, we'll see if SDSU has enough
playmakers left to
pull off the win.
Robert Jackson,
KSL.com sports
writer March 11, 5:37
pm
Twitter update from Jim Boylen: "Long day with the late
tip time, but
we'll be ready to go. We've had a lot of close games with
UNLV and I
expect another one tonight."
Tyler Huskinson,
KSL.com
contributor March 11, 5:36
pm
Tyler Huskinson,
KSL.com
contributor March 11, 5:25
pm
Louisiana Tech leads Fresno State, 67-64 with 1:42 left in
the
game.
Seth Stoker,
KSL.com
contributor March 11, 5:05
pm
I just received an email from Kyle Chilton, the BYU men's
basketball
team's Sports Information Director. Dave Rose was just
announced as
one of 15 finalists for the Skip Prosser Man of the Year
Award, which
was created last year to honor successful college
basketball coaches
who also show "moral integrity" off the court.
Skip Prosser is the former head coach at Wake Forest
University
before passing away in 2007. Prosser averaged 21 wins per
season.
Utah State Head Coach Stew Morrill also made the list.
Here's the
entire list.
2010 SKIP PROSSER AWARD FINALISTS
Murry Bartow East Tennessee State
Bill Carmody Northwestern
Jamie Dixon Pittsburgh
Fran Dunphy Temple
Greg Kampe Oakland
Billy Kennedy Murray State
Chris Mack Xavier
Bob Marlin Sam Houston State
Stew Morrill Utah State
Eric Reveno Portland
Dave Rose BYU
Kevin Stallings Vanderbilt
Brad Stevens Butler
Mike Young Wofford
Ted Woodward Maine
Robert Jackson,
KSL.com sports
writer March 11, 4:44
pm
San Diego State is starting to pull away from the Rams,
taking a 41-33
lead into the break. The main story line of the first half
was the ejection
of CSU star forward Andy Ogide for throwing an elbow into
SDSU's
Brian Carlwell. If not for Carlwell's teammates
restraining him, we might
have had an all out brawl on our hands. That happened at
the 6:27
mark with SDSU holding a slim 25-22 lead. While the Rams
only
managed 11 points in the final 6 minutes, the Aztecs put
up 16 points
to open up the 8 point lead, controlling the all the
momentum. To add
insult to injury, CSU head coach Tim Miles was given a
technical for
arguing with an official about a call.
Tyler Huskinson,
KSL.com
contributor March 11, 4:24
pm
At halftime, Louisiana Tech leads Fresno State, 33-32.
Paul George
has 12 points for Fresno State and Jamel Guyton has 13
points for
Louisian Tech.
Robert Jackson,
KSL.com sports
writer March 11, 4:21
pm
Breaking news from the CSU - SDSU matchup, CSU's Andy
Ogide was
ejected for throwing an elbow into the face of Brian
Carlwell, throwing
him to the floor. Carlwell had to be bear-hugged by his
teammates from
turning the incident into an all out brawl. With 5:10
left in the half,
SDSU leads CSU 29-25.
Tyler Huskinson,
KSL.com
contributor March 11, 4:05
pm
The Utah State Aggies defeat the Boise State Broncos, 84-
60. Senior
guard Jared Quayle and junior forward Tai Wesley both
registered a
double-double. Quayle finished with 13 points and a
career-high 13
rebounds. Wesley finished with 18 points and 10 rebounds.
Juniors
Brian Green and Pooh Williams registered career-highs as
well scoring
18 points apiece. The Aggies will face the winner between
Louisiana
Tech and Fresno State. Louisiana Tech leads late in the
second half,
26-21.
Seth Stoker,
KSL.com
contributor March 11, 4:01
pm
Gary injury update:
Steve Alford said after the game that although starting
point guard
Dairese Gary was shaken up after the game, the junior will
definitely
play in tomorrow's semifinal matchup against the winner of
Colorado
State and San Diego State.
"He took a pretty big hit two minutes into the game,"
Alford said. "He
didn't stop, he didn't quit... In the next 24 hours we've
got to get him a
lot of treatment and a lot of rest... He played pretty
banged up for most
of the year. He could have easily gone and sat out if it
was a different
guy, but with Dairese, it's a different mentality."
Alford said it is now up to the trainers to make sure they
get him ready
to play tomorrow.
"He's just got to get a lot of rest, and our trainers have
to earn some
money in the next 20 hours."
Robert Jackson,
KSL.com sports
writer March 11, 3:16
pm
Lobos win, but it may have come at a high price. Trainers
were looking
at Dairese Gary's leg - Gary was clearly in pain as he
hobbled off the
court. Potentially that could affect BYU or Utah if either
team advances
to the finals. Seth is going to see if he can find out
more information.
The Lobos win 75-69, led by the MWC MVP, Darington Hobson
with 28
points and 16 rebounds.
Robert Jackson,
KSL.com sports
writer March 11, 2:49
pm
It is down to a 3 point game with 4:34 remaining. New
Mexico leads Air
Force 61-58. If you're not watching the Mtn, you're
missing an
incredible game.
Tyler Huskinson,
KSL.com
contributor March 11, 2:32
pm
The Aggies are starting to pull away from the Broncos.
They lead 61-48
with 8:54 left in the game. Both Brian Green and Jared
Quayle have 13
points for the Aggies and Williams has 11 points. Daequon
Montreal
and Ike Okoye have 12 points apiece for the
Broncos.
Seth Stoker,
KSL.com
contributor March 11, 2:27
pm
No. 14 BYU and No. 8 New Mexico are the two highest-ranked
teams
to enter the MWC tournament in the league's 11-year
history, I just
learned in an email from the MWC Director of
Communications, Kim
Melcher.
Along with the Cougars and Lobos, UNLV is expected to
receive an at-
large bid to the NCAA Tournament, and even SDSU is
considered to be
"on the bubble," according to ESPN.com.
I had a chance to ask BYU Head Coach Dave Rose whether or
not he
thought four MWC teams deserved to be in the "Big Dance."
"I think there's four teams capable of winning a game in
the tournament,
no question," Rose said. "This league's as good as it's
been as far as
the quality of teams in the conference."
Colorado State and SDSU are set to play in the second
quarterfinal
game today at 2:30 p.m. PST.
The Aztecs are seated directly behind the Rams with only
one row
separating them, as they watch the second half of the
quarterfinal
matchup between Air Force and New Mexico.
The two teams will be playing for a chance to face the
winner of the
current game, which is expected to be New Mexico.
SDSU has more to lose, as a win against the Rams and a win
against
the Lobos would most likely solidify their campaign for an
at-large bid to
the NCAA Tournament.
The Rams, however, would need to win the conference
tournament to
play their way into the tournament. This game, along with
the late game
between Utah and UNLV, seem to be the most intriguing
quarterfinal
matchups of the MWC Tournament.
That being said, the Lobos are currently having a hard
time putting
away Air Force, and only lead the Falcons 48-44 with 13:09
remaining.
Darington Hobson and Dairese Gary are leading the way for
the Lobos,
with 15 and 13 points, respectively.
Robert Jackson,
KSL.com sports
writer March 11, 2:25
pm
Air Force just cut the lead to 4 on a 3 pointer by Tom
Fow, 48-44 with
13:09 remaining. Lobo fans are not happy.
Robert Jackson,
KSL.com sports
writer March 11, 2:06
pm
And just like that, the first half is in the books.
Halftime at the Thomas
and Mack: New Mexico 38, Air Force 31. Evan Washington hit
a
running 3 pointer as time expired to pull the Falcons
within 7.
The Falcons shot 61% in the half but committed 9
turnovers. Darington
Hobson, the MWC player of the year, leads all scorers
with 13 points
for New Mexico. He also has 7 rebounds.
Tyler Huskinson,
KSL.com
contributor March 11, 1:58
pm
The Utah State Aggies lead at halftime, 35-30. Senior
guard Jared
Quayle has nine points to lead the Aggies in scoring and
junior forward
Tai Wesley has eight. The Aggies are shooting 46.7 percent
from the
field and 50 percent from 3-point land.
Turnovers are keeping the Broncos in the game. The Aggies
have eight
turnovers and the Broncos converted that into seven
points.
Robert Jackson,
KSL.com sports
writer March 11, 1:43
pm
New Mexico has yet to pull away from the ninth seeded
Falcons, only
leading 31-22 with 3:48 left in the first half. The Lobos
are led by
Dairese Gary with 9 , while the Falcons have 3 players
with 5 points
each.
Robert Jackson,
KSL.com sports
writer March 11, 1:21
pm
New Mexico's lead now just stands at 1. The Falcons had
took the lead
on a three pointer by Todd Fletcher, but the Lobos
regained with a
layup. Lobos 14, Falcons 13 11:36 first half.
Robert Jackson,
KSL.com sports
writer March 11, 1:11
pm
Lobos shooting the three - 5 attempts, 3 makes so far, two
by Roman
Martinez. Lobos lead 12-4 early in first half.
Seth Stoker,
KSL.com
contributor March 11, 1:02
pm
I'm here at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas as New
Mexico
gets set to play Air Force to kickoff the quarterfinal
round of the MWC
tournament.
One thing's for sure, the Lobos are very well represented.
When the
Lobos took the floor just before the game started, the
building erupted.
With this kind of fan support, the Lobos should be even
harder to beat.
The two teams are set for tipoff, and we'll keep an eye on
how much of
a factor the Lobo-favored crowd becomes.
Tyler Huskinson,
KSL.com
contributor March 11, 12:42
pm
The Utah State Aggies are twenty minutes away from their
quarterfinal
match-up with Boise State. The Spectrum on Wheels has
traveled well
and there are many Aggie fans scattered throughout the
Lawlor Events
Center
Robert Jackson,
KSL.com sports
writer March 11, 11:42
am
An absolutely beautiful start to the day here in Las Vegas
(check out the view from my hotel room
). On my
way to the Thomas and Mack Center for a full day of MWC
hoops.
The first game will feature #1 New Mexico against #9 Air
Force. The
Falcons pulled out a 19 point victory last night over
Wyoming, but
shouldn't provide the Lobos much of a scare.
Next up is #4 San Diego State against #5 Colorado State.
Kawhi
Leonard is one of the league's best freshman and will be
fun to watch. I
like the Aztecs in this one.
#2 BYU will play #7 TCU in the 3rd game of the day. The
Cougars
defeated TCU by 20 points in their first meeting and 30
points in their
2nd. That doesn't bode well for the Frogs.
The last game of the day will feature #3 UNLV against #6
Utah. The
Utes defeated the Rebels in both matchups this
season.
Jordan Bailey,
KSL.com
contributor March 10, 9:45
pm
Anthony Johnson lead Montana to a Big Sky Championship
scoring a
Big Sky Championship game record 42 points. The Grizzlies
were
down 20 at half but Johnson scored 32 points in the second
half to get
the Big Sky's bid for the NCAA Tournament.
Jordan Bailey,
KSL.com
contributor March 10, 6:32
pm
Weber State guard Nick Hansen will be playing in the
Championship
game banged up. He injured himself last night in the win
against
Portland State. Hansen went for a steal and the loose
ball was going
out of bounds, he dived for ball knocking it back in play
but landed on
the scores table and some fans. Hansen's wrist was
swollen this
morning and his big toe was clack and blue from the fall.
Trainers have
examined Hansen and have cleared him to play.
Seth Stoker,
KSL.com
contributor March 10, 4:56
pm
Air Force just took care of Wyoming, 59-40. The Falcons
looked pretty
good, with 6-foot-8 forward Grant Parker leading the way
with 15 points
and three rebounds.
The Falcons have earned the opportunity to play No. 1 seed
New
Mexico. While New Mexico will be favored to win, keep in
mind this is
the same Air Force team that took the Lobos to the wire
before falling
59-56 after a late Darington Hobson putback.
Seth Stoker,
KSL.com
contributor March 10, 4:25
pm
Although the BYU men's basketball team has had very
successful
regular seasons lately, it's no secret the Cougars have
struggled in
postseason play.
The Cougars haven't taken home an MWC tournament
championship
since 2001, and have reached the finals only twice since
then, dropping
both championship games to tournament host UNLV.
I asked Jackson Emery if Rose was doing or saying anything
different
this year to help motivate his team.
"I don't think he has to do too much motivating, because
if you're not
motivated to be here, there's a problem right there,"
Emery said. "But
for the most part, we're motivated. We've just got to take
it one game at
a time and I think he does a really good job of helping us
focus on one
game and not overlooking another."
If there is one thing Rose isn't using to motivate his
team, its the
possibility of improving its seeding position for the NCAA
Tournament.
"We all understand that, but that's not a motivating thing
for us because
we can't control any of that," Rose said. "We don't have
any idea what
(the selection committee is) going to do. We're glad we're
in the
situation we're in right now, and we want to win
basketball games for a
lot more reasons than that."
Seth Stoker,
KSL.com
contributor March 10, 4:03
pm
Although New Mexico's Darington Hobson was selected as the
MWC
Player of the Year, many believe BYU guard Jimmer Fredette
should
have been the player to receive the award, including his
teammates.
Fredette's teammate, Jackson Emery said the team was
dissappointed
that Fredette didn't win the award.
"We think he's the MVP of the conference," said Emery
before
suggesting that Fredette not getting the award will
influence his play at
the tournament. "I think Jimmer has something to prove,
that he's one
of the best players in the Mountain West."
So does Jimmer feel he has something to prove while he's
in Las
Vegas?
"Kind of. They just didn't choose me for conference player
of the year
and Darington had a great year as well," Fredette said,
mentioning that
part of the reason Hobson won the award was that he was
the best
player on the team that won the conference. "But I'm going
to go out
there, and I want to be the best player... Hopefully I can
go out and
show that."
As for his health, Fredette had a message for Cougar fans.
"I want everyone to know I'm feeling pretty good,"
Fredette said. "I'm
doing well. No stomach problems, energy levels are fine...
I'm excited
for this tournament to get started."
Emery said he knows his teammate will be ready to go.
"Jimmer's looking good," Emery said. "It's good to see
that he's not sick.
Hopefully he doesn't get any food poisoning in the next 24
hours or so."
Speaking of health issues, it looks like backup point
guard Lamont
Morgan Jr. is ready to get back on the court after
undergoing knee
surgery.
"Lamont practiced Monday and Tuesday live for the first
time," BYU
Head Coach Dave Rose said. "There is a chance that he
could play.
We'll see how things work out."
Since Morgan's surgery, guard Michael Loyd Jr. has enjoyed
a coming
out party of sorts, scoring 19 points against New Mexico
and 18 points
against Utah.
With the emergence of Loyd, it's hard to imagine Morgan
seeing much
time on the court even if he is fully recovered.
Seth Stoker,
KSL.com
contributor March 10, 3:28
pm
Jackson Emery, Jimmer Fredette and Dave Rose took some
time
Wednesday afternoon to speak with the media, just before
the Air
Force vs. Wyoming game tipped off. Both players seemed
upbeat, and
ready to get things started.
As luck would have it, BYU and Utah shared a flight to Las
Vegas.
"It wasn't too awkward. We know some of the (Utah) guys
just from
playing (in Utah)," Emery said with a chuckle. "For the
most part there
wasn't any grudges or hatred or anything. It helps when
you beat them
two times." (I guess he couldn't resist throwing that part
in there.)
Emery said that some BYU players even sat next to Utah
players,
namely Logan Magnusson (BYU) and Ricky Shoff.
Emery couldn't help but laugh when a reporter asked him if
he sat next
to Marshall Henderson, the same player who sent Emery to
the ground
with a backhand earlier in the season.
Henderson also refused to shake hands with Emery at the
beginning of
the teams' second meeting in Salt Lake City.
"I saw Marshall, but I didn't sit next to him," Emery
said.
Fredette said he enjoyed the trip, despite sharing a
flight with the rival
Utes.
"It was fine, we talked to them and everything," Fredette
said. "They're
great guys and coach (Jim) Boylen is a great guy. He came
over and
talked to us, cracked some jokes and everything."
Rose said Wednesday wasn't the first time BYU and Utah's
basketball
teams had unexpectedly shared a flight to the conference
tournament,
noting the same thing happened when he was an assistant on
former
BYU Head Coach Steve Cleveland's staff.
Robert Jackson,
KSL.com sports
writer March 10, 11:35
am
From Utah head coach Jim Boylen's twitter account this
morning:
"Leaving shortly for the airport. Flying down to Vegas
this morning on
Southwest. I've been told that we will be sharing a plane
with
BYU."
Robert Jackson,
KSL.com sports
writer March 9, 10:08
pm
Damian Lillard scores 23 points to lead Weber State to a
69-60 over
Portland State. The Wildcats will play Montana tomorrow in
the
championship game.
Jordan Bailey,
KSL.com
contributor March 9, 4:52
pm
A Portland State Viking fan has found a new way to try to
get into the
heads of opposing teams. Facebook. The Portland State
fan went onto
the social networking site facebook and tracked down every
single
player on Weber State's roster and sent them a message.
The
message included how Weber is not going to beat Portland
on
Tuesday, that Portland State has gone through more as a
team on and
off the court and are more deserving than Weber State.
She also
included that Weber State might be the number one seed but
that
Portland State is the best team in the entire Tournament
and they will
be champions. She continued saying that if Weber State did
win it
would be because of the refs calling in favor of Weber
State and not
calling a fair game. It appears that the trash talking
from fans has
started early and in new creative ways.
KSL's public inspection files, including the Children's Television Programming Reports and the DTV Quarterly Activity Station Report, are available for viewing during regular office hours at the KSL Broadcast House.
