Mid-Continent Finals Preview

Mid-Continent Conference Finals Preview
		Preview by Matthew Moll (1) Valparaiso vs (2) IUPUI Three times. Three seasons. Two teams. One NCAA bid. The best way to describe the Mid-Con Tournament Final is repetitive. The two best teams that were the two best teams during the regular season for the past three seasons will battle again. During the regular season the clubs split their contests. The Jan. 5 contest IUPUI defeated the Crusaders on their home court 79-67. Their next, meeting 10 days later, Valpo returned the favor 70-66 in Indianapolis. Odell Bradley and Matt Crenshaw are they keys to the Jag’s offense and will need to break down the Valpo zone and use their perimeter games to find holes and not have a 1-17 three-ball performance like they did in the regular season loss. Valpo must have Dan Oppland and Jaoquim Gomes own the paint and someone must stop Bradley. VU’s 2-3 will only be affective if the guards get out on IUPUI’s shooters and Oppland and Gomes can figure a way to not allow offensive rebounds. Ron Hunter believes his team is on a “mission” and he and the rest of the Mid-Con knows that the road to the NCAA and ruling the Mid-Con goes through Valpo. Ten years of dominance by the Crusaders earns that type of respect. But IUPUI has turned Kemper Area into a second home. Steming back to last season’s tourney run the Jags are 5-0 including a win over mighty Valpo. The first match-up in 2002 went to the perennially dominant Valpo 88-55. Last year IUPUI danced after a thrilling 66-64 battle. This year’s game will establish further a rivalry over which team that occupies Interstate 65 is superior. Two teams from a state that breathes basketball and breeds drama, from Milan’s 1953 state runner-up to their championship in 1954, to Larry Bird and Indiana State’s run to the Final Four, to Indiana Undefeated, to Brice Drew’s buzzer beater, and now Indiana rules the Mid-Con. Rivalries grow more bitter when things that one team wants the other has. When championships are won and lost. This rivalry will reach is building and will be further fueled by an advantage. One team will have the record 2-1 while playing the other team for the conference bid. The other will have to sit, wait, watch, and grow bitter.

Mid-Continent Finals Recap

Mid-Continent Finals Recap
		Recap by Matthew Moll (1) Valparaiso 75, (2) IUPUI 70 Homer Drew is back and so is Valpo denying IUPUI’s second straight NCAA appearance. The Crusaders were forced to comeback from a double-digit deficit to unseat the defending Mid-Con NCAA representative. The Jaguars opened the game with a 18-4 run while the Crusaders could only manage hitting on three of their first 15 shots. The ‘Saders were able to find their touch late in the half thanks to Ali Berdiel and Joaquim Gomes three-pointers. IUPUI’s lead shrunk to six by the end of the first stanza. The second half looked like more of the same for IUPUI. Mr. Mid-Con MVP Odell Bradley put his team up by 10 with less than 10 to play. But the Crusaders were resurrected finding their touch again as they evened the score at 60 with a Gomes dunk. Valpo’s lead went back to two when Big O Bradley hit a lay-up with 18 seconds left. IUPUI would not see another score and as Valpo closed out the scoring. The deciding buckets were scored at the line for Crusaders who will go to the tournament for the eighth time in the last 10 years. Bradley lead all scorers with 26 points and also grabbed eight boards. The Crusaders were lead by Berdiel who chipped in 16 points and dropped six dimes. Sophomore Dan Oppland was all but neutralized by IUPUI, but hit big free-throws and added 10 points. The win for Valpo adds yet another chapter to their Mid-Con success Drew’s crew is now 25-2 all-time in the Mid-Con tournament. IUPUI’s second loss in the past three years in the championship game gives them something to think about all summer. Unfortunately the mid-major status of the Mid-Con and the RPI of IUPUI will prevent the Jag’s and ‘Saders from meeting in the NCAA. Both teams will have to wait until next season to further the bitterness of the rivalry. The loss for the Jag’s marked the team’s first loss at Kemper Arena and dropped IUPUI to 6-3 in the Mid-Con Conference tournament. IUPUI can hope for an NIT bid after completing the season with 21 wins. For Valpo they reclaim the Mid-Con as their own and push the advantage against IUPUI in the conference tournament to two games to their one. Ahead for the ‘Saders is a most likely a 16 seed in the big dance.

Mid-Continent Notebook

Mid-Continent Conference Notebook

by Matthew Moll

It’s all over, but it has yet to begin.

For the Mid-Con it was Late-February Madness with teams scampering about fighting for that all-important number-one tourney seed, but none able to take hold of it until the absolute end. The regular season matter in its entirety, even the 1-15 Western Illinois Leathernecks figured into a tie breaker.

But fewer tie breakers were needed courtesy of Valparaiso dashing all hopes of a six-way regular season championship. We are the only regular season champs they decided and this is our number-one seed and our league, try and take it away.

And try they all will.

For nine of the past 10 years this has been Valpo’s league, but this year there will be no guarantee.

Ask IUPUI what it was like to win the Mid-Con tourney. Ron Hunter wants to have another unorthodox celebration, wants to need a new suit, and he has the best player in the conference who wants to watch Hunter dance, then they can dance together.

With no discernable dominant Mid-Con force, forecasting which team will win the fight to get into the NCAA tournament could be as effective predicting the 1948 presidential election.

Knowing who will dance may not be possible, but what in the realm of the know is how the regular season ended.

Let’s start with this seasons surprise teams:

Oral Roberts Golden Eagles (17-10 overall, 10-6 Mid-Con) and Chicago State Cougars (11-18, 9-7)

ORU lost starting guard Luke Spencer-Gardner to a knee injury, what followed was one of the largest scoring out-puts in the NCAA this season. In other words Ken Tutt happened. Tutt coupled with Oklahoma’s 2003 High School Player of the year Caleb Green the adolescent Eagles positioned themselves to be a team to beat now. Both Tutt and Green did not receive a lot of pub before coming to ORU. Tutt was recruited lightly by Baylor, Texas State, Arkansas State and North Carolina Wilmington before choosing to fly with the Eagles. Green decided on ORU before his senior year in high school when few considered him a prospect.

The Eagles did not lose for a month winning all their games from December 15-January 15. This eight game winning streak was the longest of the season. Oral hit their stride late in the season as well winning four or their last five games. The only loss in that five game span was at the buzzer to Centenary in the impenetrable Golden-Dome.

Chicago state had their best season since joining the Mid-Con, topping their most wins in a season by two. State is lead by do-everything-guy Rubeen Perry. The senior Perry averages 11 points and lead the team with nearly 6 boards a game. The Cougars’ season was highlighted by a five game winning streak that helped them bounce back from a 1-14 start. The Cougars ended the season winning five of their last seven games.

And now for the champs:

Valparaiso Crusaders (14-12 , 11-5)

Valparaiso has more conference championships than any team in any conference over the last decade. Although there is no clear-cut favorite for the coveted tourney spot, Valpo has what every other team wants. Dominance. Homer Drew coaxed his team into being starless winners. Dan Oppland as emerged as the closest thing to a star, but this team prefers to play with balance and together so they can win. Only three Crusaders average double figures while eight players average at least five points per contest.

The Crusaders’ longest winning streak of the season was six games from Jan. 15-31.

The Crusaders may be more tournament ready than any other team, playing the most recently and playing against the big boys like Marquette, Cincinnati, and Duke. All were losses but all have them ready for what is next.

The defending tournament champs:

IUPUI Jaguars (19-10, 10-6)

IUPUI is set on defending their NCAA tournament spot. Ron Hunter has Player of the Year Odell Bradley on his side and experience winning this tournament.

IUPUI’s season was marked high lighted with wins over Wisc. Green Bay, Ball State, and Pepperdine. The Jag’s also had close games with Dayton and West Virginia.

IUPUI ended their season winning three of their last four games.

The rest:

Centenary Gents (16-11, 10-6)

The Wizard of Shreveport was once again the catalyst for the Gents. Andrew Wisnieski casts his spell for 22.4 points per game and hit on over 55 percent of his shots in conference play.

Unbeatable at the Golden Dome for over a season the Gents strung out their streak to 18 straight games. The last win at home came at the buzzer when the Wizard worked his magic as he said good-bye to the Gold Dome and Oral Roberts’ chance at a win.

The Gentlemen ended their season winning nine of their last 13 games.

UMKC Kangaroos (14-13, 7-5)

The Roo’s record tells the story of their season. Whenever they would lose they would usually follow it with a win, never having a streak of more than five in a row. Michael Watson and his 23.0 points a game led the Kangaroos in scoring and was their leader on the floor.

UMKC managed to at least split every season series with Mid-Con opponents. The tournament is in their town. UMKC could spell NCAA come Tuesday.

Oakland Golden Grizzlies (13-16, 6-10)

Oakland was touted as the pre-season favorite for the Mid-Con only to pick up the final seed in the tournament. The story of the Grizz’s season? Inability to close out games. Eleven loses were by 10 points or less.

Senior Mike Helms leads the team in scoring followed by junior Rawle Marshall.

Southern Utah Thunderbirds (10-17, 6-10)

At one point in time this season the T’birds were the 15th best shooting team in the nation. But Southern Utah found a shooting slump at a critical part of the season and saw blowout losses at Chicago State and Centenary.

Southern will need to revive leading scorer David Palmer’s touch and hope Jason Baker can do the same if there is a chance for a Cinderella run.

Western Illinois Leathernecks (1-15, 3-25)

It was a rebuilding year. One bright spot: new comer T.J. Gray, he will likely emerge as Western’s leader next season.

End of Regular Season Awards

Player of the Year

Odell Bradley, IUPUI

Bradley’s statistics speak for themselves. In the Mid-Con he averaged 24.4 points per game and 8.5 boards per contest. Good for second and third in the Mid-Con respectively. Bradley was IUPUI’s pillar of consistency as well. Odell scored in double digits in all but one game this year and managed 17 games of 20 or more points including two 41-point performances over Oral Roberts. Bradley managed to rack up 11 double-doubles en route to leading the Jag’s to the number-two seed in the conference tourney.

In just two seasons Bradley joined IUPUI’s 1000 point club.

Additionally, Bradley is not just a student of the game, was recognized for his work in the classroom when the Mid-Con named him Student Athlete of the Month for the month of December.

Freshman/Newcomer of the Year

Ken Tutt and Caleb Green, Oral Roberts

No freshman duo in the nation scored more points than the Tutt-Green tandem. Tutt was a scoring machine rattling off eight straight games of 25 or more points. All Green did was lead the league in double-doubles.

Coach of the Year

Kevin Jones, Chicago State

Jones is in his first full season with Chicago State and the difference is apparent. The 9-7 mark is the best the Cougars have put up since joining the league in 1994. The 11 wins the team posted is more wins than they have seen in the previous three seasons. Combined. Jones has the Cougars believing and since it is March the Mid-Con maybe believers too.

Defensive Player of the Year

Matt Crenshaw, IUPUI

Crenshaw lead his team in steals and is regarded as the best on the ball defender in the league. He plays D. He’s their defensive leader. The best in the conference.

First Team
Odell Bradley, IUPUI
Caleb Green, Oral Roberts
Mike Helms, Oakland
Ken Tutt, Oral Roberts
Michael Watson, UMKC
Andrew Wisnieski, Centenary

Second Team
Ali Berdiel, Valparasio
Matt Crenshaw, IUPUI
Dan Oppland, Valparasio
Rawi Marshall, Oakland
Rubeen Perry, Chicago State

New Middies Team
Akeem Clark, IUPUI
T.J. Gray, Western Illinois
Caleb Green, Oral Roberts
Ken Tutt, Oral Roberts
Tony Weeden, Chicago State

D-1 Independents Notebook

D-1 Independents Notebook

by Matthew Moll

With no automatic bids for Independents and at large bids needing a high profile rep these schools will play for next year hoping to sign onto a conference or push for a better regular season.

IPFW (4-23)

Building a tough schedule in hopes of being asked into a mid-major conference may have all but back fired for the Mastodons who will finish their season against Mid-Con powers Valparaiso and IUPUI. An early season visit by Dick Vitale gave the school some national pub as he touted the school as “not afraid to play anyone.” It looks as though the Mastodons were not afraid to lose to anyone either dropping all their games against teams in two conferences that they hoped to join the Mid-Con and the Horizon League. Next years team will be led by center David Simon who was named to the CoSIDA District Academic All-American Team and scored 33 points in their most recent loss to Oakland.

Northern Colorado Bears (6-20)

In their first season playing a mixed DI-DII schedule Northern Colorado played 10 games against DI schools including fellow Independents Texas A&M-Corpus Christi and three games against Utah Valley State. The failed to win any of these games but did shows signs in most. The Bears closest Division I contest was a six point loss to Texas State in early December. Sophomore Vincent Jackson scored 17 points for UNC in the 76-70 loss. Northern was also featured on ESPN on Jan 12 against Iowa State. The Bears opened the game with a 23-10 advantage before the Cyclones stormed back and never looked back. Junior Michael Frazier scored a game high 25 points.

Northern Colorado will finish their season in the National Provisional Tournament in Ft. Meyers, Florida.

Savannah State Tigers (4-24)

The Tigers disappointing season came to a close on Wednesday when they lost to TA&M-CC. Prior to losing their last two games of the season Savannah State went on their only winning steak of the season pulling out three straight.

Texas A&M Corpus Christi Islanders (15-10)

According to collegerpi.com the Islanders have an RPI rating of 167 and will need to stay on their winning ways to have any consideration for the NIT. Last week Murray State defeated CC 73-53 snapping a four-game winning streak. Senior Brian Evans scored 12 points to lead the Islanders. TA&M-CC reverted back to their winning ways over fellow Independent Savannah State. The 82-69 win was a record breaker for the Islanders, breaking their record of wins in a season and road wins in a season. Evans again led the team in scoring with 19 points.

Up Next: The Islanders look to end their regular season with a win on Saturday over the previously mentioned Broncos. Key wins over Top 100 Northern Colorado and Murray State are on their brag sheet, but my not be enough to get into the field of 32.

Texas-Pan American Broncos (13-13)

The Broncos are winners of their last eight games, including a win over Top 50 Air Force. Last week’s 37-35 win over the Air Force Falcons came courtesy of 30 percent shooting by the fly boys. Senior Allen Holcomb scored 12 points and grabbed eight rebounds to lead the Broncos. UTPA went on to finish their home regular season schedule with a convincing 111-62 win over Central Baptist. This was the second straight game UTPA held their opponents to less than 40 percent shooting from the field. Ray Castillo led the team in scoring with 23 followed by junior Sergio Sanchez with 17.

Up Next: With a .500 record the need to win their last two games to be eligible for post-season play. According to collegerpi.com the Broncos RPI sits at 226, UTPA will need wins over Texas A&M-Corpus Christi and Arkansas State in hopes of climbing in the polls and sneaking into the NIT. Although unlikely, losses by upper level teams could make the Broncos a part of the field of 32.

UC Davis Aggies (17-8)

This season the Aggies for the first time played against the ranks of Division I Independents. UC Davis elected to play a Division I-Division II mixed schedule. UC’s season was highlighted by a seven game winning streak from Jan. 30 through Feb. 14. The Aggies were defeated in two attempts against Division I schools. UC was led by freshman Rommel Marentez who put up 21 points in the 84-62 loss to Nevada. UC Davis fell to San Francisco State on Jan. 24 to a tune of 68-59. Ryan Moore led the Aggies with 16 points and eight rebounds. UC Davis will end their season against two teams from the California Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA). Friday March 5 Davis will travel to Cal St. Bakersfield and Saturday March 6 the Ag’s will finish off their season against Cal St. Stanislaus.

Utah Valley State College Wolverines (21-5)

The Wolves are currently on a six game winning streak as they prepare for the National Provisional Post-Season Tournament. UVSC lost all of their games against DI schools other than a fellow Independent who they defeated twice. The Wolverines were unable to come within 10 points of any of their three Division I opponents, which included Boise State, BYU, and Cleveland State. The closest game was a 68-80 loss to Boise State on November, 24 2003. Utah Valley State held Team Potato to just 33 percent shooting in the first half and even had a one-point halftime lead, but the Wolves four-minute field goal drought was the difference in the game. UVSC was led by Jon Bell who had 23 points.

The Wolverines will play in the National Provisional Post-Season Tournament, which will be held March 4-5.

Mid-Continent Notebook

Mid-Continent Conference Notebook

by Matthew Moll

Parity Rules the Mid-Con

There is only one game left on the Mid-Con regular season schedule. But it’s a big one.

The Chicago State at Valparaiso will decide the top six seeds in the Mid-Con tourney that will be played March 6-9 at Kemper Arena in Kansas City.

If Chicago State wins there will be a five-way tie between Centenary, Chicago State, IUPUI, Oral Roberts, and Valpo. Tie breaker will be decided by head-to-head competition between all of those tied for first. If this were to happen IUPUI would earn the number-one seed by virtue of its 5-3 record against all other tied teams. Centenary, Chicago State, and Valpo hold 4-4 records against the remaining teams. Oral Roberts because of its 3-5 record would garner the number-five seed.

Centenary, Chicago State, and Valpo all hold 2-2 records against one another, thus forcing another source for a tie breaker. The next tie breaker is to compare Centenary, Chicago State, and Valpo’s records to the next highest seeds. The number five seed would be Oral Roberts in this case, which all three teams split their season series. Next would be to compare the records against the sixth seed, in this case UMKC. Again each team went 1-1. Leading to yet another tie breaker.

The final tie breaker would take into consideration the tied teams’ RPI according to Collegiate Basketball News. This policy was adopted after it was passed by the NCAA President’s Council in June of 2003. Under the new system through Sunday’s games the seeding would go as follows: number-two seed Centenary (RPI 175) and number-three seed Valparaiso (RPI 183).

Seeding in only simplified in as far as the number-one seed would be outrightly decided if Valpo were to defeat Chicago State. If Valpo were to win the seeding would go as follows: number-one Valpo, number-two IUPUI, number-three Centenary, number-four Oral Roberts, number-five UMKC, number-six Chicago State.

Southern Utah and Oakland are locked into their seventh and eighth seeds respectively.

Regardless of which team wins the final game of the Mid-Con regular season, tie breakers and regular season series will play a pivotal role in the final seeding.

Dome-court Advantage

Not even the King himself could stop the dome-inance Centenary has at home. The Golden Dome has not seen a Gent’s loss in 18 consecutive games dating back to last season. Over this span the Dome in Shreveport, LA has been defended eight straight times over Mid-Con foes and 13 straight home wins this past season.

Seventh year coach Kevin Johnson and his players will take this streak into next season as the Gent’s defeated Oral Roberts in their final home stand.

Durham Debacle

The bright lights and lights out jump shooting were too much for the Mid-Con leading Valparaiso Crusaders to handle as they were overmatched by the 4th ranked Duke Blue Devils.

Valpo was out of the sink before the tip-off as coaches and players turned toward different American flags during the Star Spangled Banner. Once the game started Duke picked apart the Valpo zone and built a 52-29 halftime lead, largely because of a 10 of 16 shooting from beyond the arc. Duke led by as many as 36 points in the second half as the Mid-Major over Top 5 upset never came to fruition as they Crusaders fell 97-63.

This marked the first game of a three-year agreement between the schools. Next season they will battle at the United Center in Chicago and will return to Durham in 2005-06.

Curse of King Tutt Cured

After extending his 25 or more points in scoring streak to eight games against Centenary last Thursday, which was the longest in NCAA Division I this season, Oral Roberts’ Ken Tutt’s string of blowing up on teams came to an end against Southern Utah. Tutt scored 14 points in the regular season finale.

Tutt’s run included a career high of 30 on Valentine’s Day against Western Illinois. During Tutt’s point explosion he earned national recognition and moved into second among freshman in scoring in the nation.

Tutt’s streak dated back to January 31 loss to UMKC when he scored 28 points. Tutt is averaging 21.0 ppg on the season.

Player of Week

UMKC’s Michael Watson and his fellow Kangaroos won both of their games last week and will carry that win streak to the conference tourney. Michael 10000-Wats-on averaged 24.5 ppg in the victories over Southern Utah and IUPUI.

Freshman/Newcomer of the Week

For the second week in a row Oral Roberts’ Caleb Green cannot be stopped. Green scored 25 points and had nine rebounds against Centenary and scored 29 points and cleaned 22 boards in a win over Southern Utah. Green leads the Mid-Con in double-doubles with 14.

Games of the Week

Six teams will be crossing their collective fingers as Chicago State and Valpo battle to decide the top six seeds in the tournament. Tonight 8:05 pm. (EDT)

Mid-Con Notes

Valparaiso Crusaders (14-12 overall, 10-5 Mid-Con)

Despite playing no league games this week Valpo still finds themselves in the hunt for the number one seed in the conference tournament. They at least clinched part of the Mid-Con title, their ninth in the last 10 years, thanks to losses by Centenary and IUPUI. The ‘Saders went 1 and 1 this week in non-conference bouts while their conference counterparts collided for Mid-Con kingship. Thursday night on ESPN Valpo could not stop the sharp-shooting Blue Devils. Dukies ended the game 15 of 26 from trey land in the 97-63 trouncing of Valpo. Kikas Gomes led the way for the Crusaders with 18 points and 11 rebounds. Homer Drew and company did manage to end their four game skid defeating IPFW 83-61. Sophomore Dan Oppland led the way with 18 points.

Up Next: With a win Tuesday over Chicago State there will be no need for tie breakers to decide the number-one seed.

Centenary Gents (16-11, 10-6)

The Gents were able to slow the soaring Eagles of Oral Roberts in dramatic fashion but were unable to clinch a share of the regular season title after being swept by Chicago State

Senior Andrew “The Wizard” Wisniewski led the Gentlemen with 26 points and the game winning three-point field goal as with four seconds left to cap his 22 point second half scoring performance. The Wiz ended his career at the Golden Dome with an 18 game win streak and drilling his last shot to win his last home appearance. The regular season finale was not quite as sweet for the Wiz and Co. Unable to ever establish themselves, Chicago State pulled away defeating the Gents 68-54. The Wiz led the Gents with 19 points. The foes will become friends if State can defeat Valpo and force a five-team tie.

Up Next: The waiting game. Then the conference tourney.

IUPUI Jaguars (19-10, 10-6)

IUPUI was another Mid-Con team last week that could not take control of the conference and decide their own destiny going 1-1 in conference games. The Jag’s also posted a non-conference win over Independent IPFW on Monday.

All five Jag’s starters scored in double-figures in the 75-61 win over Western Illinois. Senior Odell Bradley led all scorers with 18 points and also added 12 rebounds. Senior Matt Crenshaw pulled within six assists of the IUPUI career lead after posting six in the win. The Jags tried to ride senior Odell Bradley’s 30 point 10 rebound performance and his game tying 30-foot heave to send the game to and extra session, but instead fell to UMKC in overtime. The 73-68 loss came as the Jaguar’s could not stop Michael Watson and could not take control of the Mid-Con. The 68-65 win on Monday was IUPUI’s 19th of the season. Odell Bradley led the way with 28 points. IUPUI can now only wait for Chicago State to help them own the number-one seed.

Up Next: After relinquishing their Chicago State fan cards on Tuesday IUPUI will be looking to repeat as conference tourney champs.

Oral Roberts Golden Eagles (17-10, 10-6)

Same story different team.

The Golden Eagles saw their three-game win streak halted and their chance at Mid-Con supremacy circumvented. Centenary and The Wiz were unable to slow the freshman tandem of Ken Tutt and Caleb Green but did stop the Pretty Birdies handing them 71-68 loss. Tutt hit a jumper to tie the game at 68 and force the dramatic finish by senior Andrew Wisniewski. Tutt led the way with 26 points and Green contributed 25 as well as nine boards. Tutt’s scoring effort extended his streak of 25 plus to eight games which is a season high in NCAA Division I. ORU ended the regular season with a win at home over Southern Utah. Senior night was stolen by freshman forward Caleb “Glass is now Clean” Green, who scored 29 points and added a career high 22 rebounds. The 6’7″ Green became only the fifth player in school history to record a 20 point 20 rebound performance. Green leads the league with 14 double-doubles and recorded his 20 point 10 rebound performance for the 10th time this season. Tutt’s 25 or more outbursts came to an end with a 14 point performance.

Up Next: ORU will be cheering for a Valpo win so they are awarded a higher seed in the conference tourney.

Chicago State Cougars (11-18, 9-6)

Chicago State won their only game last week as they played spoiler for Centenary on senior night in Chicago. Junior Craig Franklin led the scoring effort with 21 points. Rubeen Perry added a double-double of 14 points and 11 boards while freshman Deji Akindele put up 12 points, eight boards, and swatted 5 shots.

With the win Chicago State makes a five team tie possible if they can get past current leader Valpo.

Up Next: Who made who, who plays Drew.

UMKC Kangaroos (14-13, 7-5)

The ‘Roos ended their regular season with two straight wins over Mid-Con opponents Southern Utah and IUPUI. Last Thursday’s 74-62 win over Southern Utah ended their home regular season. Michael Watson, playing his last home game in front of the Municipal Auditorium crowd, scored 31 points and became UMKC’s all-time leading three-point leader hitting on seven of his attempts from trey land. The ‘Roos also converted 20 Southern Utah turnovers into 28 points. The Kangaroos defeated IUPUI 73-68 in the overtime thriller. UMKC dashed IUPUI’s hopes of an outright Mid-Con regular season title in the road win. Junior center Carlton Aaron led the team with 19 points including the deciding basket in overtime. Watson added 18 points in the win.

Up Next: Either the five or six seed in the tourney.

Oakland Golden Grizzlies (13-16, 6-10)

The Grizz ended their season with two straight wins, one non-conference and another of the Mid-Con persuasion. Oakland led by as many as 28 points against the Mastodons of IPFW before pulling out the 88-77 win. Mike Helms led the Shiny Metal on the Periodic Table Bears with 25 points. Mid-Con’s Western Illinois had a poor first half and did not recover as OU won 88-59. Helms led the way with 32 points.

Up Next: Eight seed upset attempt.

Southern Utah Thunderbirds (10-17, 6-10)

Southern Utah stumbles into the conference tournament with two straight losses. The T’birds Thursday night, 74-62 loss to UMKC was highlighted by David Palmer’s 25 points and 44.4 percent shooting from the field. Southern could not stop Oral Roberts’ Caleb Green in the 84-73 loss. Despite a 32-28 halftime lead, capped by a 25-8 run, Southern Utah was simply more bird than they were thunder. David Palmer led SU with 20 points.

Up Next: The yearly two-seven upset (Ok so its five-12 and its in the big dance on the Mid-Con, so what, with the parity in this league anything can happen).

Western Illinois Leathernecks (1-15, 3-25)

The ‘Necks ended their season with 11 straight losses including two conference losses last week against both IUPUI and Oakland. Western was led by Anthony Lenoir with 15 points in the 75-61 loss. T.J. Gray and Bobby Carter led the Leather necks with 11 points in the 88-59 loss to Oakland.

Up Next: There is always next year.

Mid-Continent Notebook

Mid-Continent Conference Notebook

by Matthew Moll

And Then There Were Four

With only a week left in the season the six-team race has dwindled to four for the all-important number-one seed in the conference tourney. Valparaiso, Centenary, IUPUI, and Oral Roberts are all tied in the loss column with four.

Here is the run-down:

Valpo has only one conference game remaining against a tough Chicago State team and will need to win it to ensure a share of the Mid-Con regular season championship and to hope for a number-one seed. Valpo split its series with all of the teams in contention. The tiebreaker would go to IUPUI should they tie, because of its wins against Oral Roberts.

Centenary needs wins against Oral Roberts and at Chicago State to control its own destiny. A loss at either will most likely end its hopes of a number-one seed. Should Centenary tie with Valpo and win out they will get the tiebreaker and the number-one seed. IUPUI owns the tiebreaker should the two teams tie.

IUPUI needs to get past Western Illinois and UMKC to clinch the number-one seed. IUPUI is in the driver seat owning tiebreakers against all the other teams in contention.

Oral Roberts lost twice to IUPUI, split the season series with Valpo and play Centenary this week. They will need to win out and hope IUPUI and Valpo lose to avoid tiebreakers that would go favorably in other team’s directions. Wins this week do guarantee that they have at least a share of the regular season title.

Kicking some Tutt

Oral Roberts is the hottest team in the Mid-Con and look to be the team to beat as the conference tourney lurks. A young core that includes two freshmen and a sophomore leads the Golden Eagles.

Freshman Caleb Green leads the league in rebounds per game at 9.4 and is eighth in the league in points at 16.4 ppg and was named Mid-Con Player of the Week by the conference the week of January 5. Sophomore Jonathan Bluitt leads the Mid-Con in dime-dropping, dishing out 6.5 assists per. Finally, the King himself, Ken Tutt, is receiving national recognition and was named the Unsung Player of the Week by CollegeHoops.com during the week of February 19. He is the nation’s second highest scoring freshman at 20.8 ppg. Currently Tutt is in the midst of a seven game streak where he has scored 25 or more points averaging 27.1 in that run.

During this basket-making barrage the Golden Birdies won three straight and are among those looking for a Mid-Con tourney number-one seed. The string of straight scoring outbursts is the longest consecutive 25-plus efforts in the nation this season.

Mr. 1000

IUPUI’s Odell Bradley joined the Jaguars’ 1000-point club in just his second season. The transfer from Aquinas College in Whites Creek, Tenn., is the team’s leading scorer at 23.0 ppg and has emerged as a team leader since last year’s NCAA run. Bradley broke the 1000-point barrier with his first two points of his 29-point performance against Centenary.

IUPUI will be a major threat in the conference tournament particularly because of Bradley’s leadership and ability to fill up the stat book.

Chopping Oak

Touted as the preseason favorite, Oakland has lost 11 of its last 16 games and is not part of the race for first.

Oakland has had trouble winning close games and has been playing to their competition all year.

Oakland is a dangerous team and can beat anyone in the Mid-Con, but its inconsistency has been its demise and Oakland will need to amend that come March.

Player of Week

Tutt has been unstoppable. Mr. Nation’s Second Leading Scoring Freshman was lights out last week hitting on 15 of 26 (58 percent) shots, which included a 10 of 16 effort from threeland, and did not miss a free-throw (10-10) in last week’s sweep of Chicago State and Oakland.

Freshman/Newcomer of the Week

You could say Tutt for the second straight week, but enough ink on him. How about pumping both your fists for freshman glass cleaner Caleb Green. Green is only leading the Mid-Con in double-doubles registering two last week. The Tulsa native has established himself as the best and most consistent big-man in the conference.

Games of the Week

Valpo at Duke. ESPN, Dicky Veee. What could be bigger? Thursday 9 pm. (EDT)

Mid-Con Notes

Valparaiso Crusaders (13-11 overall, 10-5 Mid-Con)

The Crusaders were handed their 11th loss of the season thanks to cold shooting in their only game last week. Valpo must have had one ear turned towards the Cameron Crazies in Durham and overlooked Southern Utah who shot nearly 60 percent from the floor. Leading scorer Dan Oppland was held to 12 points while Kenny Harris recorded his first career double-double to lead the ‘Saders in a losing effort, 75-58. This loss put a stop to Valpo’s three-game winning streak and slowed its once positive thrust toward the finish.

Up Next: Valpo must now rebound against Top 5 Duke. The Dukies are coming off a loss to Wake Forest, but the game still has tournament implications and gives the Mid-Con’s best a chance to be on a national stage. Duke is fighting for a number-one seed in the NCAA’s and Valpo is looking for respect. Thursday ESPN 9 pm. (EDT)

Centenary Gents (15-10, 9-5)

Last week began with the Gents winning their 17th straight game at home and ended with a loss to IUPUI. The Gents were unable to take advantage of the loss by Valpo to move into first and must now play their way out of a four-way race. Centenary defeated UMKC, 63-55, despite a poor shooting effort and only 10 points from leading scorer Andy Wisniewski. Defense was the word of the day for the Gold Dome win, holding the Kangaroos to 29.5 percent second half shooting. On the road, however, the Jags of IUPUI were able to withstand a 34-point effort from Wisniewski to defeat the Gents 69-61. No other player scored in double figures.

Up Next: Centenary will attempt to extend its home winning streak to 18 when it hosts Oral Roberts on Thursday. Saturday they travel to Chicago State to end the regular season.

IUPUI Jaguars (17-9, 9-5)

IUPUI managed to stay in contention for a Mid-Con regular season title thanks to some help and revenge over Centenary. Last week began with a loss, 76-73, to Oakland, which made last year’s Mid-Con NCAA representative look as if it would stumble as the regular season ended. The lead changed throughout the last 2:19 of the game thanks to several missed free throws by the Golden Grizzlies (52.8 percent for the game). Oakland gave IUPUI a chance to send the game into overtime but the three-pointer by Akeem Clark was long. Senior Odell Bradley led IUPUI with 23 points and also grabbed nine boards. IUPUI exacted revenge for the late January loss to Centenary by a score of 69-61. Timely free throw shooting and a defense that only allowed one double-digit scorer pushed the Jags past their 16 turnovers. Mr. 1000-point club, Odell Bradley, led the way with 29 points. Bradley reached the 1000th point plateau in just two seasons with the Jags. Bradley also led the rebounding effort with 11.

Up Next: Ron Hunter’s crew will play post-season eliminated Western Illinois on Thursday. Saturday UMKC will come to Indianapolis to fight for the undecided number-one seed.

Oral Roberts Golden Eagles (16-9, 9-5)

Oral Roberts rolled off two wins last week extending its current winning streak to three. The Golden Eagles flew into Mid-Con contention with the help of net scorching freshman Ken Tutt. In the 75-61 win over Chicago State, Tutt scored 25 points including a stretch where he scored 13 straight points. Fellow freshman Caleb Green notched his league leading 12th double-double to aid the Eagles. Fox SportsNet brought the Mid-Con to a national audience. Oral Roberts had to withstand a 60.7 percent shooting effort by Oakland and deficits as high as 12 points to come away with the 84-75 win. Tutt, Green, and sophomore Jonathan Bluitt turned the homecoming game into an underclassman show combining for 66 points including all 46 points in the Golden Eagle second half. Tutt scored a game high 25 points while freshman middle man Green recorded yet another double-double and his ninth 20 and 10 game scoring 24 and cleaning the glass 10 times. Bluitt scored 15 of his 17 in the second half and also added eight rebounds, four assists, and three steals.

Up Next: The Eagles have their destiny in their own hands as they play fellow contender Centenary Thursday and will face a Southern Utah team that has recently found their touch to finish off regular season play.

Chicago State Cougars (14-9, 7-5)

Chicago State’s hopes for a regular season title became mathematically improbable after a 1-1 week. After a hot shooting first half, lack of free-throws and a coach Kevin Jones ejection, Chi-State became Team King Tutt’s latest victim. Junior Tony Weeden led the way with 21 points and Rubeen Perry chipped in 14. CSU was out boarded by the Golden Eagles 35 to 19 in the loss. State managed to end its three-game road losing streak and beat UMKC for the first time since 1997 on UMKC’s home floor last Saturday with a 66-65 win. Weeden led the Cougars with 16 points while Perry added a double-double of 14 points and 10 rebounds. State held the Kangaroos to 37 percent shooting from the field, but still needed Brandon Lipsey of UMKC to miss a free-throw at the end of regulation to avoid overtime. The win marked the most wins in conference in one season for CSU.

Up Next: State hopes to play spoiler and be on a roll when the conference tourney begins when they play Centenary on Saturday.

UMKC Kangaroos (12-13, 7-7)

Last week the ‘Roos extended a losing streak that is now at three games. The week included losses to Centenary and Chi-State. In the 63-55 loss UMKC led by two at halftime and by as many as six in the second half. But UMKC saw the game slip away after tying it at 49 with 7:45 left. Additionally the Kangaroos could only manage seven made field goals in the second half. Michael Watson led the way with 28 points. The loss to Chicago State was the ‘Roos first loss at home in 13 games. The late charge by the Roo’s was halted by poor free-throw shooting that haunted them throughout the game. Watson was the Kangaroos’ leading scorer with 17.

Up Next: UMKC will play Southern Utah and IUPUI before the conference tournament.

Southern Utah Thunderbirds (8-15, 4-8)

After having three straight poor shooting performances Southern Utah rattled off two wins last week and have their eyes on the conference tournament. Western Illinois comeback, after a dismal first half fell short as the T-birds went on to win 63-55. Southern Utah led by as many as 21, but saw that lead slowly shrink to six thanks to a couple of double digit Leatherneck runs, but Western never got closer. DeAngelo Newsom led Southern Utah with 20 points. Senior night became lone senior David Palmer night when the T-birds pounded Valpo, 75-58. Valpo’s shooting was virtually nonexistent while Southern managed to shoot over 51 percent from the field. Palmer led all scorers with 17.

Up Next: Southern Utah prepares for the post-season with two road games. They will play UMKC on Thursday and end the week in Tulsa to play Oral Roberts.

Oakland Golden Grizzlies (11-16, 5-10)

Formerly known as the pre-season favorite to win the conference, OU has found itself not in the race for a number-one seed in the tourney. Last week Oakland started with a win defeating IUPUI on their home floor, but ended the week feeling the wrath of the Tutt led Golden Eagles. Mike Helms led Oakland with 23 points over the Jags of IUPUI. Against Oral Roberts, Oakland could not hold onto its slim halftime lead to defeat the Golden Eagles. The battle of the Golden teams was decided during a two-minute scoreless span by OU during the game’s final five minutes. Helms again led Oakland in scoring with 22 points while Rawle Marshall dropped in 20 points and eight rebounds.

Up Next: The Golden Grizz hope to get back to winning when they play host to non-conference opponent IPFW and battle last place Western Illinois on Saturday.

Western Illinois Leathernecks (1-13, 3-23)

The Leathernecks extended their losing streak to nine games after a loss in their only game last week to Southern Utah. T.J. Gray and Bobby Carter each scored 14 points in the 63-55 loss.

Up Next: The ‘Necks will finish their season with two conference games versus IUPUI and at Oakland.

Mid-Continent Notebook

Mid-Continent Conference Notebook

by Matthew Moll

Six Teams Within Striking Distance of Conference Title

With only two weeks left in the regular season six teams still remain in the hunt for the number one seed in the conference tournament. Three teams – Valparasio, Centenary, and IUPUI – have four losses while the five-loss teams include Oral Roberts, UMKC, and Chicago State.

First place Valparaiso controls its own destiny and its final two conference games are against teams that have more losses than the Crusaders. Valpo plays Chicago State in its final game of the regular season, which, if both teams win out, could be the biggest game of the year.

Centenary and IUPUI also control their own destiny. One of them will have at least five loses at the end of the regular season after the two battle February 21st. The two will need help from either Southern Utah or Chicago State to avoid a potential tie-breaker with current leader Valpo. One thing is certain, however, is that no matter how the Thursday night match up ends, only one of these teams will have the opportunity to tie Valpo at season’s end, assuming the Crusaders win out.

Five-loss teams Oral Roberts, UMKC, and Chicago State can help each other in games against four-loss teams. Only Chicago State plays league-leading Valpo, while Oral Roberts and UMKC play Centenary. UMKC also has a regular season ending match against IUPUI. The five-loss teams each play one another before the season is over. This round robinesque end to the regular season will scale down the number of teams in contention.

Chicago State Plays Way Into Contention

Coming into last week the Cougars were at .500 in league play and in need of a pair of wins to remain in the regular season race. State’s two wins could not have come at a better time as it now travels for two consecutive Mid-Con road games. The Cougars look to be the hottest team going into the tournament. If their momentum takes them into the March 7th tournament on a winning streak the Cougars will be the team to beat.

Chicago State’s Freshman on Verge

If State is going to be a legitimate team in the Mid-Con tournament, Deji Akindele will need more weeks like this past one, particularly his block party against Southern Utah. The 7-foot-1 freshman neutralizes the middle with Rubeen Perry and compliments the perimeter play of Tony Weeden and Craig Franklin.

IUPUI’s Big Week

After a loss to Chicago State, IUPUI is nearing the must win phase part of the season if they wish to have the number one seed in the Mid-Con tourney. The Cougars next play the streaky Oakland Golden Grizzlies who defeated Centenary last week. IUPUI will also have to beat a Centenary team that defeated them by two earlier this season when a last second Odell Bradley three-point try rattled out.

King Tutt

Freshman Ken Tutt has emerged as Oral Roberts’ scoring leader. Injuries to senior guard Ralph Charles forced Tutt into the starting role. Even with Charles’s return, Tutt remains the starter and the team’s go-to-guy. Tutt has scored at least 28 points in the last four games with a high of 30 on Saturday.

Player of Week

Rubeen Perry, senior, Chicago State

Played a pivotal role in wins over Southern Utah and IUPUI averaging 17.5 points per game, 7.5 rebounds per game, and 2.0 steals per game. Perry and company will now make their run towards a Mid-Con regular season title and all important number one seed.

Freshman/Newcomer of the Week

Ken Tutt, freshman, Oral Roberts

Thanks to an injury, Tutt and fellow freshman guard Caleb Green have seen significant playing time. All Tutt has done is average 20.0 points a game and 29.0 points per game in this past week against Valpo and Western Illinois, respectively.

Games of the Week

Oral Roberts vs. Oakland – This game can be seen on Fox SportsNet. This should give Ken “King” Tutt a chance to display his talents to a larger regional audience and to a national audience during half-time high light shows. Saturday 8:00pm (EDT).

Mid-Con Notes

Valparaiso Crusaders (13-10 overall, 10-4 Mid-Con)

Thanks to help from Chicago State, who defeated IUPUI, coupled with two wins last week, perennially tough Valpo now sits alone atop the Mid-Con standings. An 84-73 win over Oral Roberts on February 12 began the week for the Crusaders. Five players were in double figures led by junior Ali Berdiel who had 17 points to go along with his six assists. Homer Drew and company then posted a 70-60 victory over UMKC. Sophomore Dan Oppland scored 19 points and grabbed 10 rebounds to lead Valpo past the Kangaroos. This was the Crusaders’ third straight victory and their 9th win in the last 10 games.

Up Next: Valpo will travel south to Cedar City, Utah, to clash with conference foe Southern Utah on Saturday at 9:35 pm. (EDT). Drew will then have five days to prepare the Crusaders for a Thursday night clash with the ACC powerhouse Duke Blue Devils at 9 pm on ESPN2. (EDT)

Centenary Gents (14-4, 8-4)

The Gents find themselves looking up in the standings after splitting two conference games last week, but remain tied in the loss column with both Valpo and IUPUI. Thursday, 23 turnovers halted Centenary’s four-game win streak and allowed Oakland (4-9 Mid-Con) to steal a game with a 76-64 win in Rochester, Michigan. Leading scorer Andrew Wisniewski managed 20 points, while being held to just one of six from three-point range. The Gents bounced back by trouncing Southern Utah, 86-44. Wisniewski celebrated his Mid-Con Student Athlete of the Month selection by pouring in eight of nine threes while leading all scorers with 31 points. Junior Jarmorrow Moragne chipped in 16 points in the win. Forty-four points marks the lowest point total a visiting team has tallied at in the Golden Dome in Shreveport, Louisiana.

Up Next: Two critical conference games this week. On Thursday, the Gents will play host to third place UMKC at 8:05 pm. (EDT). On Saturday they will travel to Indianapolis to squeak sneakers against reigning conference champs and fellow second placers IUPUI at 8 pm. (EDT)

IUPUI Jaguars (16-8, 8-4)

Ron Hunter Bobblehead Night began the Jaguars week in honor of last season’s Mid-Con championship and its subsequent NCAA birth. But the week ended with the defending champs in a tie for second and without momentum heading into the end of conference regular season play. Hunter and his bobbleheads managed an 81-59 win over IPFW. This alphabet soup match gave IUPUI its third straight win. Senior Odell Bradley had 23 points while junior Akeem Clark added 22. Matt Crenshaw also recorded his first career double-double with 11 points and 11 assists. Chicago State ended the Jags’ win streak sliding in a 76-72 win in Chitown on Saturday. Valentine’s Day brought no love for the Jags from beyond the arc as they could only connect on two of 10 attempts.

The game saw its last tie at 69 with 1:53 left, but after taking a brief lead IUPUI was unable to hit open shots to close out the game. Bradley scored 24 points but turned the ball over six times.

Up Next: IUPUI will attempt to avenge a January 31st loss to Centenary on Feb. 21. But the Jaguars cannot look past Oakland on the 19th. Both games will be played in Indianapolis at 8 pm. (EDT).

Chicago State Cougars (14-9, 7-5)

With seven wins in the Mid-Con this season the Cougars have already tied their previous record for wins in conference and there are still at least five more Mid-Con games to be played. Chicago State’s first win last week came in the form of a 73-59 win over struggling Southern Utah. Four players scored in double figures for the Cougars led by a breakout performance by freshman Deji Akindele who had 18 points, 10 boards, and swatted three shots. The 7-foot-1 rookie could not have picked a better time to showcase his talents as post-season play looms. Rubeen Perry also contributed 15 points and eight rebounds in the win. State’s 76-72 rollercoaster win (three ties in the last four minutes) on Saturday, allow the Cougars to make a run at a number-one seed for the conference tournament. Four players again scored in double figures for coach Kevin Jones while his team also forced 15 turnovers. Rubeen Perry scored 20 points, gathered seven rebounds, and had three steals in the victory.

Up Next: Chicago State looks to go on the road for a two game stint. The Cougars will play co-third placers Oral Roberts on Thursday at 8:05 pm and UMKC on Saturday at 8 pm. (EDT).

UMKC Kangaroos (12-11, 7-5)

After going 1-1 last week, the Kangaroos also find themselves as one of the six teams a game apart in the loss column. UMKC defeated Mid-Con’s last place team Western Illinois, 74-52. The ‘Roos began the game with a 19 to nothing run. Senior Michael Watson scored 26 points to lead all scorers. UMKC’s three-game winning streak vanished along with its three-point shooting when Valpo held the ‘Roos to just four of 23 from beyond the arc. After a cold shooting first half the Kangaroos pulled to within four with 2:23 left, but that was as close as they would get. Watson led the way for the ‘Roos with 20 points and five assists. But with two wins this week UMKC would put itself in position to make a run at the regular season championship.

Up Next: UMKC will try to sweep season series with two teams jockeying for Mid-Con control. The Kangaroos will play Centenary on Thursday in Shreveport, Louisiana, and will play host to Chicago State on the Saturday. Both games are at 8 pm. (EDT)

Oral Roberts Golden Eagles (14-9, 7-5)

Last Thursday the Golden Eagles were in the midst of two streaks that were of the losing nature. Valpo defeated Oral Roberts, 84-73, increasing its losing streak to four games and its losing streak at Valpo to eight games, which is as many times as they played there. The Golden Eagles lost despite an influx of freshman points. Ken Tutt blew up for 28 points while fellow newcomer Caleb Green scored 20 and had 15 boards. Josh Atkinson also scored his 1,000th career point. Valpo did not once relinquish its early lead. The losing streak did end thanks to playing not-so-hot Western Illinois. But then again no one can seem to stop Tutt who lit up the scoreboard again with 20 straight points during the second half. Tutt finished the game with a career-high 30 points. He now has scored 28 or more in four straight games.

Up Next: King Tutt will try to lead the Golden Eagles at home past Chicago State on Thursday and will showcase his skills in front of a national audience on Saturday against Oakland on Fox SportsNet. Both games will be played at 8:05 pm. (EDT)

Southern Utah Thunderbirds (8-15, 4-8)

Formally known as the 15th best shooting team in the nation, Southern Utah has suddenly shot their way out of games and out of the Mid-Con hunt. Last week the T’birds shot a combined 38.2 percent from the field over the course of two games. Chicago State kept all players but leading scorer Jason Baker from scoring double figures. Baker put up 21 in the 73-59 loss. Then on Saturday, Southern Utah was embarrassed by the Gents of Centenary losing by 38 points. David Palmer had 14 points and was the only T’bird to break the single digit barrier.

Up Next: Southern Utah has suffered three straight losses and will face 1-12 Western Illinois on Thursday and the surging Valpo Crusaders on Saturday. Valpo defeated the T’birds, 79-69, earlier this season. Both games will be played in the Cedar City, Utah, and both at 8:00 pm. (EDT)

Oakland Golden Grizzlies (10-15, 4-9)

In their only game last week the Golden Grizzlies posted a 76-64 win over second-place Centenary. Oakland had 17 steals while the Gents turned the ball over 13 times. The double G’s defense held the Gents’ leading scorer, Andrew Wisniewski, without a point in the first 15 minutes of the second half. Senior Mike Helms led the way with 21 points, nine rebounds, and seven assists. DeMarcus Ishmell led the defensive effort with six steals while also adding six assists.

Up Next: The Golden Grizzlies hope to upset IUPUI on Thursday in Indianapolis at 8:05 and on Saturday will look to show the nation Mid-Con basketball while facing off against Oral Roberts on Fox SportsNet also at 8:05 (EDT)

Western Illinois Leathernecks (1-12, 3-22)

With two losses last week the Leathernecks have lost eight straight. Carter put up 15 points on five of eight shooting in the loss to UMKC. Will Lewis scored 16 points and had a career-high 15 rebounds in the 74-66 loss to Oral Roberts. The Leathernecks gave up an eight-point lead in the first half as well has allowed the Golden Grizzlies to outscore them on second chance points 16 to two.

Up Next: The ‘Necks hope to have a change of fortune at Southern Utah on Thursday and on Saturday at IUPUI. The games will be at 8:00 and 8:05pm, respectively. (EDT)