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Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Centerfield Oct 03 2012 09:28 AM

Ten days away from Midnight Madness. Very excited about this season. I think Carter-Williams and Cooney will give us a backcourt we will be talking about for years. Between Southerland, CJ Fair and Jerami Grant, you'd think one of these guys would be ready to step up their game to the next level. The way I see it, the key for the Orange this year will be the big men. If Christmas improves from Year 1 to Year 2 like Fab Melo did, or if DaJuan Coleman lives up to the hype, we could be in for a very exciting year. I'm hoping DCII gives us the low post-threat we haven't had since Rick Jackson.

soupcan Oct 05 2012 07:20 AM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Also very excited for this season. I think MCW, Triche and Fair will be really good. I don't know what to expect from Cooney but everything I'm hearing (dead-eye from 3 and a big enough body to be able to go to the hoop) makes me feel good. I think Christmas will also be much improved from last year but I'm not going to expect so much from Coleman. The lessons of Fab have taught me that. If DC2 does turn out to be as advertised, then bonus for me. I got tickets to the SU-SDSU game in San Diego on the aircraft carrier (no, I didn't pay $5,000.00 per, my dad has a buddy that works for the athletic dept. at SDSU) and I'm really excited about going today's news notwithstanding.

soupcan Oct 12 2012 07:42 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Midnight Madness at Syracuse on ESPNU right NOW!

Edgy MD Oct 13 2012 04:46 AM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Coleman plus Orange to me equals coolers.

Ashie62 Oct 14 2012 04:45 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Is Syracuse still in the BE for hoops this year?

soupcan Oct 14 2012 05:02 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Yup. This is their farewell tour.

Methead Oct 17 2012 12:39 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Football season is dead. Long live basketball season.

soupcan Oct 17 2012 01:29 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Jim Boeheim: "Rick Pitino is full of shit" Gotta love the old curmudgeon.

soupcan Nov 19 2012 06:12 AM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Orange 2-0 and the youngsters are looking pretty good. Coleman 2.0 needs to hold on to the ball, but other than that I like what I've seen in the 2 games.

soupcan Nov 30 2012 09:33 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

#5 Syracuse comes out on top after a slugfest with Arkansas on the road. Southerland 33 pts! MCW 17 pts and swishin' & dishin' all night long! CJ Fair his usual dependable self. Little foul trouble towards the middle of the second half exposed the lack of guard depth a bit but Southerland, Triche and Careter-Williams were too much too overcome. Although Cooney did give it his best effort. Fun game to watch. Yet another Syracuse squad with some oomph. Gonna be another fun season.

Fman99 Dec 01 2012 05:34 AM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Watched the second half of last night's game, the first chance I've had to watch them this season, and I agree. We won't be able to depend on Southerland hitting shots like that every game, but, man, they have an interesting mix of players this year. Good times ahead. Scouting the conference schedule out now for a game for Fwife and I to take in.

Methead Dec 01 2012 08:42 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

So far, Southerland has been the only dependable shooter from downtown, but there are so many shooters on the team, I assume they'll heat up soon. Triche showed some long-range life against Arkansas, so that's good. I have high hopes for Cooney but he's basically still getting his feet wet. MCW is special. So much talent this year, and the recruiting classes coming in are pretty good too. Hard to imagine Boeheim ever leaving with so much talent in the pipeline and him on his way to 900+ wins.

soupcan Dec 04 2012 02:43 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

5-0 and ranked #4 after a 84-48 drubbing of the DaShonte Riley-led Eastern Michigan Eagles. Up next, the Long Beach State 49ers on Thursday.

soupcan Dec 17 2012 03:25 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

9-0 and ranked #3 in the nation as of today's polls. Tonight at 7:00 on ESPN2, Coach Boeheim goes for career win #900 against the University of Detroit Mercy Titans. Should the Orange win, Boeheim will become only the third coach in Division I history to get to 900 wins. The others are Bobby Knight (902) and Mike Krzyzewski (935).

soupcan Dec 17 2012 08:13 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Favored by 19 & 1/2, the Orange win by 4, 72-68. A win is a win and Coach Boeheim gets 900.

Centerfield Dec 18 2012 07:51 AM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

I missed this game. Glad they hung on. 900 wins is no joke. Congratulations to the Coach.

soupcan Dec 22 2012 08:42 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

First loss of the year as the Orange fall to the perennial giant-killer Temple Owls. The Owls were unconscious from the free throw line and the Orange were more than lousy from it. That my friends was the story of the game.

soupcan Jan 14 2013 01:06 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

So...in today's polls your once-beaten Orange come in at #6 after Duke, Michigan and Arizona all fell from the ranks of the undefeated. SU was able to beat Villanova this past Saturday after learning that this year's recipient of the now annual 'Fab Melo Award for Pretending You're Only In College To Play Hoops' was 6th man and the team's leading scorer - James Southerland. No word on when the 3 point sharp-shooter will be able to return. Reading between the lines it seems that he is going through an appeals process and that the final decision will not necessarily be arriving in a timely fashion. In the meantime - freshman Jeremi Grant filled in nicely and Trevor Cooney was able to hit two very clutch 3's late in the second half right before I was about to jump through the TV and stab him with a screwdriver. That was the best possible outcome for both of us I think. This weekend (1/19), Syracuse takes on the new #1 team in the country - the Rick Pitino-led Louisville Cardinals.

Centerfield Jan 14 2013 01:35 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

At this point, I've come to expect it.

soupcan Jan 15 2013 07:13 AM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Unfortunately, I'm with you on that. Watched the Louisville - UConn game last night. Louisville looked really good. MCW is gonna have a hard time with Siva.

Methead Jan 16 2013 10:15 AM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Doesn't matter if Louisville's ranked #1 or #51... Pitino's teams will always give Cuse a tough game. By the way... and I know this is the longest of longshots, but if you guys know anyone who can't use their tix to the Georgetown game on 2/23 I'd be interested. Just throwing that out there. Tix are still available as far as I know, but I'd rather stay home than sit way up at the top behind the curtain. Although since I want to take the boy with me, that might not be a bad place to be.

soupcan Jan 16 2013 01:43 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Only thing I know about Georgetown tix at 'Cuse is that supposedly they have sold 42,000 of them. I do know that The Rock (is that what they call it?) in Newark has opened up additional sections of seating for the SU-Seton Hall game on Feb. 16. If you want to bring your boy to a game, at least he might be able to see the court if you go to that one.

themetfairy Jan 16 2013 01:46 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Seton Hall indeed plays at The Rock (The Prudential Center) in Newark. It's a nice arena and an easy walk from the NJ Transit station.

Methead Jan 16 2013 02:01 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

42000?!?!? Holy shit. Isn't the attendance record in the mid-30K range? As much as I want to part of that circus, I don't wanna deal with a 4-year-old at the same time. It would be a nice excuse to visit my parents for a day though. I might take him to a Fairfield or Sacred Heart game at some point. Much easier on the wallet too.

soupcan Jan 17 2013 07:42 AM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Yup 42,000 is what I heard and you are correct that the attendance record is in the mid to high 30's. You could probably get into the Dome and watch it on the big screen on the other side of the curtain but really, what's the point of that?

soupcan Jan 20 2013 09:07 AM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Syracuse pulls the upset beating #1 Louisville on the road, 70-68! Triche has a great game scoring 23 pts. Jeremi Grant has everybody saying 'Southerland who?' and Baye Moussa Keita quietly gets the job done in the paint. MCW recovers from a bad first half to score the last 4 points of the game for 'Cuse including a super clutch 3 to give the Orange the lead late. This was the 4th time that SU has beaten a #1 ranked team and of those, 3 have been road games (this one, 2/1/99 @ UConn and 3/9/06 @ UConn. The other win was at the Dome vs. G'Town, 1/28/85). Very enjoyable game to watch, back and forth the whole way. OE: the 3/9/06 game against UConn was at the BET at MSG so it was a 'neutral court'.

soupcan Jan 21 2013 09:43 AM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

The Orange deal with a quick turnaround and face the Cincinnati Bearcats at the Dome today at 3:30 on ESPN. Be there.

soupcan Jan 21 2013 08:14 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Another nail biter for the now 3rd ranked Orange but in the end the result is the same. Syracuse 57, Cincinnati 55. Triche and Carter-Williams come up big in the big spots and the Freshman, Jeremi Grant again makes the Syracuse hoops fan less worried about a long-term absence for James Southerland. 18-1, 6-0 with the next game on Saturday at Villanova.

Centerfield Jan 22 2013 09:28 AM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Two monstrously huge wins. In both wins there were some clutch performances by the guards. And it's nice to see the bounces and calls go our way. Luck definitely was a factor in both (the CJ Fair "put back" and Dieng not handling the ball cleanly on that last play of the Lville game). Very impressed by Jerami Grant. I think he is going to be a big time player. One discouraging note, when you see how methodically Louisville picks apart the zone versus the helter-skelter nature of the Syracuse offense, it really demonstrates the difference in coaching style. I can't figure out for the life of me why Boeheim is so incredible on the defensive end, but cannot run any set plays. His offensive scheme seems to be just put in the hands of his most talented player and rely on them to make a move. I really think the lack of any set offense has killed them in the tournament.

soupcan Jan 22 2013 01:42 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Centerfield wrote: One discouraging note, when you see how methodically Louisville picks apart the zone versus the helter-skelter nature of the Syracuse offense, it really demonstrates the difference in coaching style. I can't figure out for the life of me why Boeheim is so incredible on the defensive end, but cannot run any set plays. His offensive scheme seems to be just put in the hands of his most talented player and rely on them to make a move. I really think the lack of any set offense has killed them in the tournament. Its a good point and the stock answer is always that Boeheim opts to let his players freelance more than other coaches. Supposedly he has a few set plays and gives his players the freedom to use their own specific talents to create. Its probably one of the reasons that can get the kind of players that do. I don't know if that's the reason for the disappointing tourney appearances the last few years though. Had they been healthy and at full strength (Arinze Onuaku, Fab Melo) the results could have been dramatically different. I will say though that as much as Louisville and Cincinnati looked like they both had answers, they both lost. The one thing I've noticed this year is the great rebounding. As far as I can remember it has not been a strentgh of this team and that was always explained away as the zone putting players in poor positions once the ball goes up. What they gave up in rebounds, they got back in turnovers. So far this team is leading the nation in turnovers caused and doing quite well on the boards. Maybe its just that they are all taller than the other team,. Don't know but I do like watching these guys.

Methead Jan 23 2013 10:30 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

I've definitely spent a lot of time this season watching the defense go to work. When that zone is going well, it's an impenetrable work of art.

soupcan Jan 28 2013 08:37 AM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Unranked, underestimated underdog Villanova pulls the upset on the #3 ranked Orange and beats them in OT 75-70. The story of this game was an unfriendly iron for the Orange - in the first half especially. I don't think I've ever seen a game where so many lay-ups just bounced off the rim. I'll give 'Nova credit though, they shot lights-out and when teams do that, its hard to overcome it, no matter who you are and what you do. Still the Orange had a shot to win this in regulation but Michael Carter-Williams missed a foul shot that would've given the Orange a 4 point lead with about 16 seconds left. As a result, Villanova was able to tie it with a 3 with only 2.2 seconds left and then take the game in OT. Very exciting game to watch and just proves that in the Big East, there are no gimmes. Especially on the road. Next up is Pitt @ Pitt on Saturday.

Centerfield Jan 28 2013 08:50 AM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

After winning two I thought they should have lost, they respond by losing one that they should have won. Orange were clearly the better team. But they missed some free throws and 'Nova came up big in the clutch. Such is life.

Methead Jan 28 2013 08:10 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Coleman 2.0 will miss 4 weeks after knee surgery. Granted he wasn't putting up huge numbers but the team will be down to 7 scholarship players... lack of depth was a bit of a problem in the Nova game, and this doesn't help. I guess this means Grant becomes a starter and Keita gets a lot more minutes.

Fman99 Jan 28 2013 08:33 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Hurry back, James Southerland! Someone teach this mook how to read, please, we need him on the court.

soupcan Jan 29 2013 02:25 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

I concur wholeheartedly with both of your posts.

soupcan Jan 31 2013 08:29 AM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

"Matt Lyde-Cajuste could be pressed into action for a Syracuse team low on basketball options" Walk-on gettin' ready to actually walk onto the court during a game...

Methead Jan 31 2013 06:35 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

My advice is to start drinking heavily.

soupcan Feb 04 2013 01:41 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

#9 in todays polls after looking like crap against a not-so-impressive Pittsburgh team and losing by 10, 65-55. Tonight it's #25 Notre Dame in the Dome at 7:00 on ESPN where Jeremi Grant gets to face off against his brother Jerian. The Orange are not the same team without Southerland who will appeal his suspension this week and hopefully get a positive answer before their next game, which will be February 10th against St. John's at the Dome.

soupcan Feb 05 2013 08:03 AM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

The Orange get back to their winning ways, handling the Irish 63-47. Both Grant brothers play well in their first college game against one another. SU's Jerami plays all 40 minutes and finishes with 14 points, 6 rebounds and one thunderous block that looked like it deflated the ball. ND's Jerian gets 36 minutes and 15 points. No highlight reel blocks for him. Syracuse now 19-3, 7-2 and alone in first place in the Big East by 1/2 game over Marquette. Notre Dame is 18-5, 6-4. Next up for the Orange - James Southerland's appeal on Thursday or Friday and then St. John's at the Dome on Sunday, 2/10.

Methead Feb 05 2013 11:40 AM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Play defense = win games. Simple. Looked like they played with a lot more energy than they did against Pitt. Actually scored a ticket to the Georgetown game. A friend of my parents (SU alum) had an extra and said I could have it. Offered to pay, but she said no charge. Only downside is I can't take my kid to the game, but whatever. He can hang out with my folks for the day.

soupcan Feb 05 2013 04:43 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

That's awesome! Enjoy and remember - your mother's a Hoya!

Methead Feb 06 2013 07:24 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Yeah, I'm pretty freakin' excited! Not sure where I'll be sitting (standing) but I'm reasonably sure I won't be way up top. We'll see.

Methead Feb 07 2013 12:24 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Jinxed it. Sec 320, almost comically far away. Price is right, though.

soupcan Feb 10 2013 10:35 AM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

James Southerland wins appeal. Back on the court today against St. John's.

soupcan Feb 11 2013 05:55 AM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

The Orange beat St. John's 77-58 at the Carrier Dome yesterday. In the process they get their 20th win on the season which extends Coach Boeheim's NCAA record of 20 win seasons to 35. Southerland does in fact return to the court after missing the last 6 games with eligibility issues. He scores 13 points while hitting on 3 of 7 3 pt. shots attempted. It took Southerland a little while to shake off the rust but once he did he was hitting some deep shots. It was just so easy to see how his presence opened up the offense for Good Guys. Southerland hitting from downtown, CJ hitting from the corner, MCW and Brandon driving the lane. This is the team that can go deep in March. Now 20-3, 8-2 and tied with Marquette for 1st place in the conference, Syracuse takes on UConn in Hartford at 7:00 on Wednesday night.

soupcan Feb 11 2013 01:06 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Jumped up 3 spots to #6 this week. 1 Indiana 21-3 2 Duke 21-2 3 Miami (FL) 19-3 4 Michigan 21-3 5 Gonzaga 23-2 6 Syracuse 20-3 7 Florida 19-3 8 Michigan State 20-4 9 Arizona 20-3 10 Kansas State 19-4 11 Butler 20-4 12 Louisville 19-5 13 Ohio State 17-6 14 Kansas 19-4 15 Georgetown 17-4 16 Pittsburgh 20-5 17 Oklahoma State 17-5 18 Marquette 17-5 19 New Mexico 20-4 20 Wisconsin 17-7 21 Notre Dame 19-5 22 Memphis 20-3 23 Oregon 19-5 24 Colorado State 19-4 25 Kentucky 17-6

Fman99 Feb 11 2013 07:30 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

soupcan wrote: The Orange beat St. John's 77-58 at the Carrier Dome yesterday. In the process they get their 20th win on the season which extends Coach Boeheim's NCAA record of 20 win seasons to 35. Southerland does in fact return to the court after missing the last 6 games with eligibility issues. He scores 13 points while hitting on 3 of 7 3 pt. shots attempted. It took Southerland a little while to shake off the rust but once he did he was hitting some deep shots. It was just so easy to see how his presence opened up the offense for Good Guys. Southerland hitting from downtown, CJ hitting from the corner, MCW and Brandon driving the lane. This is the team that can go deep in March. Now 20-3, 8-2 and tied with Marquette for 1st place in the conference, Syracuse takes on UConn in Hartford at 7:00 on Wednesday night. The difference with Southerland in there was tangible, even in the first half when he hadn't found his shot yet. They looked strong and I wish ol rotten-organed Jim Calhoun was still there so we could hand him his Big East ass one last time Wednesday night.

Elster88 Feb 13 2013 07:16 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Elster88 Feb 13 2013 07:20 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Fman99 wrote: The difference with Southerland in there was tangible, even in the first half when he hadn't found his shot yet. They looked strong and I wish ol rotten-organed Jim Calhoun was still there so we could hand him his Big East ass one last time Wednesday night. Calhoun is still there, too old and broken down to be a head coach, but not too old to see one last Big East win over the Orange (Orange is a shitty nickname, I much preferred Orangemen). Good luck in the ACC. Don't let the door hit you on the way out. (Actually I expect UConn may not be far behind.)

Fman99 Feb 13 2013 07:52 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Well that sucked.

soupcan Mar 04 2013 08:57 AM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Aargh. Have stayed away from this thread because its been nothing but bad news for the last few weeks. Lost to UConn, lost to Georgetown, lost to Marquette, lost to Louisville. When the polls come out today they'll be lucky to still be in the top 15. On top of the team just completely reeling I've heard the following: 1. Boeheim was asked to resign and said no. 2. Hopkins is leaving to go west to be closer to sick parent. 3. Team is going to be placed on 2 years probation for violations soon. 4. Lot of dissension among players and everyone hates Carter-Williams who has a big head. Now these rumors have been swirling for a few months now but have also been pooh-poohed by those who are supposedly in the know. However they are rearing their heads again and through some people I know, they were brought directly to a member of the SU Board of Trustees and while that person did not confirm them, they also did not deny them. Knowing what I know about that person, that is not a good sign.

batmagadanleadoff Mar 04 2013 09:19 AM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

I've lost total interest in this year's squad about a month and a half ago. The team had no reliable go to shooter last year (Scoop Jardine? You hadda have been kidding me.) and this year's no different. Southerland doesn't instill confidence because he's not consistent enough. He's streaky, and just as likely to go stone cold as red hot. The team's set half-court offense has no visible inside threat. And Michael Carter Williams might be the most overrated schoolboy of the year. He can't shoot either. With the ball, the team just kills time until someone takes a 15-20 footer that's likely to miss the mark. Who the hell ever thought that this is a top 10 team? Because if they are, then parity has set in firmly this season. Boeheim might be getting too old for the game. Have you been following some of his recent post-game press conferences? He's outta control and needs to be reigned in.

Centerfield Mar 05 2013 10:03 AM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

soupcan wrote: Aargh. Have stayed away from this thread because its been nothing but bad news for the last few weeks. Lost to UConn, lost to Georgetown, lost to Marquette, lost to Louisville. When the polls come out today they'll be lucky to still be in the top 15. On top of the team just completely reeling I've heard the following: 1. Boeheim was asked to resign and said no. 2. Hopkins is leaving to go west to be closer to sick parent. 3. Team is going to be placed on 2 years probation for violations soon. 4. Lot of dissension among players and everyone hates Carter-Williams who has a big head. Now these rumors have been swirling for a few months now but have also been pooh-poohed by those who are supposedly in the know. However they are rearing their heads again and through some people I know, they were brought directly to a member of the SU Board of Trustees and while that person did not confirm them, they also did not deny them. Knowing what I know about that person, that is not a good sign. Wow, that sucks. Where are you hearing this?

soupcan Mar 05 2013 12:15 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Centerfield wrote: Wow, that sucks. Where are you hearing this? The rumors were floating around message boards about a month or so ago but lately they've picked up steam locally in Syracuse and people that I still know up there say that there is something going on. With the news today that Hopkins interviewed for the USC job, it looks like at least one of them has some truth to it.

batmagadanleadoff Mar 05 2013 12:37 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

If the program is put on two years probation, I'd guess that Boeheim doesn't come out from that penalty as the head coach anymore.

Fman99 Mar 06 2013 04:35 AM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Meh.

soupcan Mar 07 2013 07:26 AM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

And now the 'Boeheim Being Asked to Resign' rumors gain some traction.... More of the same here.

soupcan Mar 09 2013 06:33 AM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Syracuse - Georgetown for the last time as Big East conference foes today at 12:00 on ESPN.

soupcan Mar 09 2013 12:01 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Georgetown 61, Syracuse 39. I have no idea what's happened to this team this year. They just fell off the table. Never seen a Syracuse team just completely implode like this one did. Strange.

Centerfield Mar 11 2013 09:36 AM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Didn't the DeShaun Williams/Preston Shumpert team fall apart? There was tension between those two and the team ended up in the NIT. Next year, they got a guy named Carmelo and won it all.

Methead Mar 11 2013 12:57 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

In my mind, it's a combination of a lot of factors... on one hand you've got all of the toughest games scheduled at the end of the year, and all of them are getting back on D, daring our guys to shoot jumpers. It's unfortunately coinciding with a time when all of our shooters are cold, cold, cold. It didn't take a rocket surgeon to figure out if you could force Cuse into a half-court game, they'd be a much different, less explosive team. And that's what every opponent has done. Cuse is still playing some good defense, hopefully they can start making some shots. I have no explanation for Triche at this point. He's throwing up shots that aren't even close.

soupcan Mar 11 2013 01:29 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Different team in the half-court? Fine. I'm okay with that, but they should at least not look completely clueless. I read this in an article this morning: 'Here’s the dossier on the banal SU offense: Fair flashes to the post while the guards aimlessly swing the ball around the perimeter.... Somewhere along that sequence, a turnover or errant perimeter jumper happens.' I've been seeing that for a month now. The fact that Triche has been beyond cold and these good teams that have beaten them haven't blown them out (until the G'town game) tells me that if the coaches give these kids a little more to work with, they still could do some damage. Not holding my breath though.

Centerfield Mar 11 2013 02:14 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Can I "I told you so" here? I've been saying this about their offense since January when they were winning. Seriously, the defense is excellent, but the offense is putrid. And it's been their weakness in the tournament year after year. I'm not kidding, my Jr. High coach had more set plays than Boeheim. Watch Pitino's teams, or Izzo's teams, or Krzieweski's teams. When they struggle, they make adjustments, come out with an idea. They may not always execute, but there is a game plan. They have two big men that can make a 15 foot jumper (Fair and Grant), two excellent guards, and a guy who can dunk from anywhere (Christmas). There is no reason you can't use those pieces to get a few set plays. It is such a shame. He is a great recruiter. Develops players well. He's perfected the zone. But has so little creativity on the offensive side it is mind-boggling.

soupcan Mar 11 2013 02:40 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Centerfield wrote: Can I "I told you so" here? I've been saying this about their offense since January when they were winning. Seriously, the defense is excellent, but the offense is putrid. And it's been their weakness in the tournament year after year. I'm not kidding, my Jr. High coach had more set plays than Boeheim. Watch Pitino's teams, or Izzo's teams, or Krzieweski's teams. When they struggle, they make adjustments, come out with an idea. They may not always execute, but there is a game plan. They have two big men that can make a 15 foot jumper (Fair and Grant), two excellent guards, and a guy who can dunk from anywhere (Christmas). There is no reason you can't use those pieces to get a few set plays. It is such a shame. He is a great recruiter. Develops players well. He's perfected the zone. But has so little creativity on the offensive side it is mind-boggling. You're 100% correct on all counts. I suppose I've just never really seen the 'lack of creativity' effect the team so obviously. I'm watching these games and these other teams have plans on what to do in the half-court. If 'Cuse doesn't get the transition going then its almost exactly what that article said - pass it around until either the clock runs down and MCW drives into traffic and turns it over or have Triche or Southerland just throw it up there.

Methead Mar 11 2013 03:46 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Yeah, you'd think they would be able to adjust their gameplan a little. I really expected Christmas to develop into something this year and he's shown flashes, but this team really needed him to become a threat inside. They don't have a single scoring option down low, and it's really encouraging our opponents to just play a zone and dare us to shoot. You'd think Cuse would know how to attack a zone, but nope. They could barely find a good shot against Gtown.

Ashie62 Mar 13 2013 11:14 AM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Rutgers crushes DePaul...ND tonight.

batmagadanleadoff Mar 13 2013 07:33 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

soupcan wrote: You're 100% correct on all counts. I suppose I've just never really seen the 'lack of creativity' effect the team so obviously. I'm watching these games and these other teams have plans on what to do in the half-court. If 'Cuse doesn't get the transition going then its almost exactly what that article said - pass it around until either the clock runs down and MCW drives into traffic and turns it over or have Triche or Southerland just throw it up there. This has been the hallmark of SU b-ball in the 30 or so years that I've been following the Big East. And Boeheim's the commomn denominator. His teams can usually blow anyone off the court in a run and gun game with quick transitions and lotsa fast breaks. But in a slow-paced bogged down half-court set offense contest, his teams are very vulnerable. And it was even worse up until a few years ago because back then, Boeheim would never go with a rotation of more than seven or eight players. As soon as two guys were in foul trouble, the team disintegrated because the ninth and 10th guys off the bench were always tentative, playing not to make a mistake. Some ESPN commentator also made the observation, today, that no one on this year's team has shown that he can play inside offense with his back to the basket. There's no real inside threat. By the way, for all the hype and attention the program gets, you'd think that Boeheim would recruit more NBA body type players. But the way I see it, the ratio of SU b-ballers that stick in the NBA to the amount of hype the program gets is weak. I I say this because generally, teams that have a real shot at winning the tourneys have NBA bodies on their squads. The 2002-03 NCAA champs had Carmelo Anthony and Hakim Warrick. The dominant teams of the mid to late '80's, who came within seconds of winning it all in 1986-87, had Derrick Coleman, Rony Seikaly Sherman Douglas and later, Billy Owens,. Counting guys from the past few years, Dion Waiters looks like the only SU b-baller who might thrive in the NBA*. Just about everyone else, is either struggling in the D-League, or out, including Jonny Flynn and Donte Greene. Wes Johnson is hanging on with the Suns. (Now watch them go deep in the NCAA tournament. They've been very successful when least expected.) *OE - And Fab Melo who is a raw project in the D League, but with promise.

Centerfield Mar 14 2013 12:45 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

I doubt the deep tournament run. Every time they have gone deep, they have been blessed with strong point guards, and players that were gifted at creating their own shot. I don't see that kind of personnel this year. Still, one can hope. Beat Pitt. Beat GTown. Beat Louisville. Leave the Big East making them our bitch. Then win the national championship. Simple.

Centerfield Mar 14 2013 01:10 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Fair, Southerland and Triche accounting for all scoring so far. SU up 22-15.

Centerfield Mar 14 2013 01:28 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Oh, my mistake. I forgot you two haven't met yet. James, this is Pitt. Pitt, this is James Fucking Southerland. Bitches.

Centerfield Mar 14 2013 01:34 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

'Cuse up 40-27 at the half on a 3 by CJ Fair. That means Syracuse has already eclipsed their scoring total against Georgetown.

Centerfield Mar 14 2013 02:59 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

And they win the damn game. 22 points in the second half is the kind of suck we've been worried about.

Centerfield Mar 14 2013 03:33 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Not that I am discouraged going into Georgetown. We are going to bitch-slap those fuckheads on our way out. I only wish it could have been the final and not the semi-final.

soupcan Mar 14 2013 06:21 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

A friend called me with a last minute ticket so I was able to Southerland light up the Panthers in person. Great time! Beat G'town, then I don't give a shit who they face in the final. I'm running a race in D.C. On Saturday morning and I'm wearing a Syracuse shirt. Ill get razzed whether they win or lose Friday night, but it would be so suh-weet, if I was getting razzed for beating the Hoyas rather than getting beat by them for the third time this season.

soupcan Mar 14 2013 06:23 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

At the end of the SU - G'town game last week, Bill Raftery said that he'd like to see Syracuse get another shot at the Hoyas just to see what the Orange are made of. I agreed. Glad to see it'll happen tomorrow night.

Methead Mar 14 2013 07:11 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

I was a little discouraged by the 2nd half today, but damn it's nice to see Southerland filling it up again. Triche continues to look great one minute and clueless the next. And since we won, I can bitch about the officials... what the fuck game were they watching today? Definitely excited for another shot at the Hoyas no matter how it ends up. Have fun in DC, soup. Strap a GoPro camera to your head and film all of the taunts!

Ashie62 Mar 14 2013 09:59 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Can they suit up McNamara?

soupcan Mar 15 2013 06:59 AM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

If Southerland keeps shooting like he has, they won't have to

Mets – Willets Point Mar 15 2013 07:46 AM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Can anyone explain to me why they're busting up a great basketball conference like the Big East? I understand it has something to do with football, but if they can have Hockey East for the big hockey schools in the northeast why can't they have the Big East for the big basketball schools in the northeast and let the football teams play in the ACC? I know I'm ignorant because I don't really follow college basketball but for some reason the Big East thing is really bugging me.

Fman99 Mar 15 2013 08:13 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Big win for the 'Cuse tonight. Nice to see Keita finally show up and score some points and for Cooney to find his shot.

Methead Mar 15 2013 10:42 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Seriously. Who saw that coming?

Frayed Knot Mar 16 2013 12:27 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

admins: feel free to split this off if you want so as to not crowd in on the Syracuse boys topic here Mets – Willets Point wrote: Can anyone explain to me why they're busting up a great basketball conference like the Big East? I understand it has something to do with football, but if they can have Hockey East for the big hockey schools in the northeast why can't they have the Big East for the big basketball schools in the northeast and let the football teams play in the ACC? I know I'm ignorant because I don't really follow college basketball but for some reason the Big East thing is really bugging me. As you said, it's football driving the bus. This most recent round of musical leagues is based on the belief that the future is trending towards a model with something on the order of four 16-team "Super-Conferences" [think PAC-whatever; South-east; Big-midwest; and something eastern] who, because they'll generate the largest share of the money, want to keep the largest share of the money rather than be forced to share it with all those piddling little twerps who can't even draw 80,000 fans per weekend or get network TV to slobber over them. One school of thought has those elites divorcing themselves from the NCAA entirely once they've got those divisions set so they can keep ALL the money, plus they won't have those annoying 'rules and regulations' guys looking over their shoulder every minute. The bottom line (pun intended) is that those football schools who want to be part of that future elite are jockeying so as to not be left in a non-elite conference once the music stops. Specifically here in the east here it means that the ACC is being most aggressive towards setting themselves up to be that eastern regional power conference and so basketball schools who also think of themselves as decent football competitors (Syracuse, BC, Notre Dame, Pitt, WV, etc.) realize that hanging with non football playing schools isn't going to get them an invite to that party or those dollars, but hooking up with the ACC or Big [more than] Ten just might. College hockey, because it's played by fewer teams and generates relatively little money, really has little other option than to form leagues on a regional basis with like schools. There's just no incentive for leagues to recruit a school based on its hockey prowess.

soupcan Mar 16 2013 02:44 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Methead wrote: Seriously. Who saw that coming? Not fucking me! Keita?! Cooney?! Was great to see though! Ran my race in D.C. This morning proudly sporting my 'Syracuse' shirt and 30 yr.-old orange 'Your Mother's A Hoya' button. Got lots of hisses and boos but it was much fun! Tonight's game will be a little anti-climactic since there was SO much at stake against Georgetown but hell, I want this one too!

Methead Mar 16 2013 03:15 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

I'm actually less confident about tonight's game despite splitting the season series w/ Pitino. 7 for 7 from the line for Keita... must have made some sort of deal with the devil. That's dedication right there.

Ashie62 Mar 16 2013 06:39 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Good luck to my Orange friends here....take out the best tournament in sports in style....

Ashie62 Mar 16 2013 11:40 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

It was the Orange Crush uni's fault. I thought Notre Dame's digs should have had Shanahans Bakery lettered on them.

batmagadanleadoff Mar 18 2013 08:54 AM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Grantland categorizes the entire 68 team NCAA tourney field: Wild, Wild Jim 6. Syracuse (4) — Jim Boeheim's teams will always do the last thing you expect. After appearing to implode at the end of the season, the Orange beat Georgetown and had a huge lead on Louisville. Then they realized that you were expecting them to beat Louisville, so they lost. Now they know you've lost faith again. Hold on tight. http://www.grantland.com/blog/the-trian ... ment-teams

seawolf17 Mar 18 2013 09:45 AM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

soupcan Mar 18 2013 01:25 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

seawolf17 wrote: I'd expect nothing less. Well done and go Seawolves!

Mets – Willets Point Mar 18 2013 06:25 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

admins: feel free to split this off if you want so as to not crowd in on the Syracuse boys topic here Mets – Willets Point wrote: Can anyone explain to me why they're busting up a great basketball conference like the Big East? I understand it has something to do with football, but if they can have Hockey East for the big hockey schools in the northeast why can't they have the Big East for the big basketball schools in the northeast and let the football teams play in the ACC? I know I'm ignorant because I don't really follow college basketball but for some reason the Big East thing is really bugging me. As you said, it's football driving the bus. This most recent round of musical leagues is based on the belief that the future is trending towards a model with something on the order of four 16-team "Super-Conferences" [think PAC-whatever; South-east; Big-midwest; and something eastern] who, because they'll generate the largest share of the money, want to keep the largest share of the money rather than be forced to share it with all those piddling little twerps who can't even draw 80,000 fans per weekend or get network TV to slobber over them. One school of thought has those elites divorcing themselves from the NCAA entirely once they've got those divisions set so they can keep ALL the money, plus they won't have those annoying 'rules and regulations' guys looking over their shoulder every minute. The bottom line (pun intended) is that those football schools who want to be part of that future elite are jockeying so as to not be left in a non-elite conference once the music stops. Specifically here in the east here it means that the ACC is being most aggressive towards setting themselves up to be that eastern regional power conference and so basketball schools who also think of themselves as decent football competitors (Syracuse, BC, Notre Dame, Pitt, WV, etc.) realize that hanging with non football playing schools isn't going to get them an invite to that party or those dollars, but hooking up with the ACC or Big [more than] Ten just might. College hockey, because it's played by fewer teams and generates relatively little money, really has little other option than to form leagues on a regional basis with like schools. There's just no incentive for leagues to recruit a school based on its hockey prowess. I guess I still don't see why they need to hitch the basketball conference to the football conference to make money. I mean a conference that has it's championship in Madison Square Garden must be doing well, and then you've got all the rivalries amongst regional schools that drive tv viewership/attendance/t-shirt sales. Why not let football be football and basketball be basketball.

Frayed Knot Mar 18 2013 07:01 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

I guess I still don't see why they need to hitch the basketball conference to the football conference to make money. I mean a conference that has it's championship in Madison Square Garden must be doing well, and then you've got all the rivalries amongst regional schools that drive tv viewership/attendance/t-shirt sales. Why not let football be football and basketball be basketball. I think leagues like to have as many schools as opponents in common as possible rather than these for football, those for hoops, them guys in baseball, etc. Exceptions do have to be made for those sports that not everyone plays, such as hockey, but they otherwise prefer to keep it in the family. Plus, I suspect the conversation goes something like this: 'Hey Syracuse, want your income doubled? (I have no idea if it's actually doubling, but you know what I mean) then come on over and join our super league instead of that shrinking band of chumps you're with now which is getting raided whether you come with us or not, but you have to bring your basketball team with you or it's no deal. Your move ace!' There's no secret that basketball coach Boeheim, a guy who played there, lives there, never has made any motions about leaving there, won a national championship there, and has been the head coach since, I believe, sometime during the Truman administration, wasn't in favor of making this move, BUT EVEN HE didn't have to juice to stop it. I get a kick out of hearing people ask; 'well why don't the college presidents step in?' whenever some athletic program gets out of hand. Except that college presidents these days are little more than glorified fund raisers with boards to answer to and if they start recommending turing down huge sources of income for some petty reason such as tradition or loyalty then their new title will be EX-President of said university.

Gwreck Mar 20 2013 08:44 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Jim Boeheim wrote: Same story they had last year at this time. I guess that's annual. I guess next year we'll get it again Alternately, I guess you could try running a clean program focused on both the STUDENT and ATHLETE parts of running a college team.

soupcan Mar 28 2013 10:56 AM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

#4 seed Orange -v- #1 seed Hoosiers tonight at 9:45-ish. FIRST time these two programs have met in the tournament since Indiana won on a last second shot to win the 1987 championship. It's going to be the defense and height of the Orange against the speed and scoring of Indiana. I think Syracuse's best game can beat Indiana's. The line is Indiana -5 &1/2. I got tickets for saturday in D.C. If 'Cuse wins, I'm there, if not, my Indiana alum nephew is taking them. Hopefully I'm the one who'll be making the trip.

batmagadanleadoff Mar 28 2013 12:20 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Tough game tonight for the Orange as they face off against Indiana, a #1 seed, and a team that, on paper, appears ideally suited to give SU fits. Three Hoosier starters shoot the trey better than Southerland does, and their big man is an ideal zone menace, versatile and able to make the smart pass from the inside -- all characteristic zone busters. It's the sweet sixteen and the games from here on out are supposed to be difficult.

soupcan Mar 28 2013 01:33 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Yup. On paper IU is absolutely the type of team that can bust the zone. Score from outside, free up the middle and feed the big man. I think the problem for Indiana is going to be SU's height advantage when guarding their perimeter players and the collapsing zone on Zeller before he gets the ball back out. On offense I wonder how the Hoosiers will handle Fair and Southerland (and hopefully Triche if he can find his stroke). That being said, if SU doesn't bring their best game, they're gonna be going home.

batmagadanleadoff Mar 29 2013 08:46 AM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

soupcan wrote: I think the problem for Indiana is going to be SU's height advantage when guarding their perimeter players and the collapsing zone on Zeller before he gets the ball back out. Great call. That was a total smothering last night. SU guards used their height advantage to hold IU's guards scoreless and to have their way with them when the Orange had the ball, at times, scoring at will. Next up, Marquette, who beat SU in their lone regular season Big east meeting, but if I remember correctly, that was one of the six games Southerland missed while on academic suspension. This SU team is not that team. Last time Marquette made the elite eight - 2003. 2003.

soupcan Mar 29 2013 02:58 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Yeah, thanks. Even a broken clock is right twice a day. I feel good about the Marquette game. Felt Syracuse was a better team then them all season and still do.

Methead Mar 30 2013 06:45 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

YAY

Centerfield Mar 30 2013 06:55 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

This is the best defense I have ever seen. Just amazing. Never expected this. Great run.

soupcan Mar 31 2013 07:52 AM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Totally agree. In all my years watching this team, I've never seen the defense so suffocating. I'd like to see just a tad more offense though. I was at the game yesterday and it just seemed like Marquette was 1 big shot away from taking control of the game. Great to see them back in the Final Four. Gonna be a fun week just reading about them everywhere.

Methead Mar 31 2013 05:49 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Only comparison I can come up with is the game in the '03 tournament against Oklahoma. Those guys were wide-eyed and completely scared. The Indiana game reminded me of that. The Marquette game was sloppier, but it sorta had to be, if that makes sense. Am I nuts for preferring Michigan next week? I really didn't want Billy Donovan to have a week to plan for us. Beilein is an old friend though too... I dunno. I'm really just happy to be looking forward to another game. Being a Cuse fan is odd. You have amazing teams that flame out early, on the other hand you have teams that go on deep runs seemingly out of nowhere. And this Final Four berth is on schedule, pretty much.

batmagadanleadoff Mar 31 2013 07:08 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Methead wrote: Am I nuts for preferring Michigan next week? I really didn't want Billy Donovan to have a week to plan for us. I thought SU got lucky when Michigan defeated Kansas last Friday. The Jayhawks looked like a team with enough athleticism to go all the way. Everyone left is excellent, but beatable.

Fman99 Mar 31 2013 07:22 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Missed the second half of the game for Passover supper at my aunt's but was constantly running into the other room to check the score. Pleased and surprised that this particular group turned it on at the right time. I like their chances against Michigan, should be a hoot.

batmagadanleadoff Mar 31 2013 07:50 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

SU in the 2013 NCAA tournament:

Centerfield Apr 03 2013 07:59 AM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

I am super-psyched about this Final Four. And since we already have 2003, the need to win a national championship seems less suffocating. I feel like a title here would be gravy. Especially since this came from nowhere. I think Syracuse has a good chance to beat Michigan, much like I thought they had a good chance to beat Marquette. I'm hoping that the bigger Syracuse guards will slow down Burke. After that though, I think they are in trouble against Louisville. That team that played Duke simply cannot be beat. Those guards are amazing, Dieng is a monster, all the role players can step up. It would be a huge upset to knock off Louisville, but it's college basketball, and anything can happen. Two national titles would really cement Boeheim's legacy as one of the all-time greats. A few random thoughts: *MCW is really good, but man, unlikeable. I never had a harder time liking Syracuse's best player (I even liked Devendorf a little). *Methead, great point about Indiana/Oklahoma. I heard that members of that team afterwards, whenever a player look petrified of the zone, would describe that guy as having "Hollis Price Eyes".

Methead Apr 03 2013 01:41 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

I didn't think they had any chance in '03 against Texas or Kansas. SU had the late game on that Saturday, and in the early game, Kansas pounded Marquette by 30 points or something. So I'm just going to enjoy the ride this year, even more than I already have. One thing that slightly worries me is that Cuse hasn't really had a game in this tournament where they've struggled and had to overcome it. I feel like that's important somehow. It feels like they've had double-digit leads for most of every game. We beat Louisville on their floor, and were in complete control of the Big East title until Louisville decided to start tackling people (and getting away with it). I'm sure our guys are convinced they can hang with them.

soupcan Apr 04 2013 01:21 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Methead wrote: One thing that slightly worries me is that Cuse hasn't really had a game in this tournament where they've struggled and had to overcome it. I feel like that's important somehow. It feels like they've had double-digit leads for most of every game. They only beat Cal by 6 and the Marquette game was just a 4 point difference for much of the second half. Just read one prognisticator who likes Wichita state in upset over L'Ville and The Orange over the wolverines. Boy I'd love that. Be careful what you wish for and all but....yeah.

batmagadanleadoff Apr 04 2013 02:06 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Has anyone here caught any Wichita State games? They look terriically good and not nearly as underdoggish as you'd expect them to be. To me, they don't seem to resemble a team playing over their heads. I'm not so worried about a potential Lousville-Syracuse matchup. SU beat the Cards in January and probably lost to them in the Big East tourney finals after up 45-29 only because they ran out of gas. They were playing their 4th game in four days and did not earn a tourney double bye as Louisville did. The only drawback to a potential Loisville-SU final is Pitino's familiarity with the SU vaunted zone defense. Wichita would mainly have to prepare for it on short notice (not that they're not preparing this week, too).

Methead Apr 04 2013 06:22 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

soupcan wrote: They only beat Cal by 6 and the Marquette game was just a 4 point difference for much of the second half. True, the Marquette game was a battle, but they never really trailed. And honestly the Cal game never felt that close. I guess I'm thinking about games like '03 against Oklahoma State(?) Auburn(?) where they had to come back from a double-digit halftime deficit... or the '96 game against Georgia that went to OT. I mean, I'm not complaining. And I'm sure they're very confident. Personally I've just always felt it was something that was important in March (April). It probably makes no difference at all, historically.

soupcan Apr 05 2013 07:45 AM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Methead wrote: True, the Marquette game was a battle, but they never really trailed. And honestly the Cal game never felt that close. I guess I'm thinking about games like '03 against Oklahoma State(?) Auburn(?) where they had to come back from a double-digit halftime deficit... or the '96 game against Georgia that went to OT. I mean, I'm not complaining. And I'm sure they're very confident. Personally I've just always felt it was something that was important in March (April). It probably makes no difference at all, historically. I know what you're saying. You want to see the ability to withstand another team's streak, maybe lose the lead and then come back strong just to know that they can. I'd counter with this: Every team in the tourney is a good team that has had a good season and most of them are hot coming into the first round. Syracuse has won 4 games in a row against these good, hot teams including playing Cal in what was basically a home game for them, beating the #1 seed and then beating the #3 seed, Marquette, a team that had beaten them this season and is very familiar with the Orange's style of play. So while SU may not have struggled per se, they are showing me that they are playing at a pretty high level right now. batmagadanleadoff wrote: Has anyone here caught any Wichita State games? They look terriically good and not nearly as underdoggish as you'd expect them to be. To me, they don't seem to resemble a team playing over their heads. I'm not so worried about a potential Lousville-Syracuse matchup. SU beat the Cards in January and probably lost to them in the Big East tourney finals after up 45-29 only because they ran out of gas. They were playing their 4th game in four days and did not earn a tourney double bye as Louisville did. The only drawback to a potential Loisville-SU final is Pitino's familiarity with the SU vaunted zone defense. Wichita would mainly have to prepare for it on short notice (not that they're not preparing this week, too). I haven't seen any of the Wichita State games. I was driving back from D.C. after Syracuse-Marquette when they were playing Ohio State and I listened to most of it on the radio. Like every other SU fan, I would rather see a Wichita State/Syracuse matchup in a Final rather than Louisville, but again not having seen them I don't even know how smart that is. Louisville is the devil I know and if that is the opponent if SU gets to the Final then so be it and bring on the Cards. Siva never has a good game against Syracuse and now they're playing shorthanded without Ware. Russdiculous always scares me but the Orange have beaten them and played them tight and lost to them. Sure Syracuse would rather not play Louisville but I think Louisville would rather not play Syracuse either.

Methead Apr 05 2013 09:08 AM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

This has been just about the longest week ever.

soupcan Apr 06 2013 04:58 AM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Orange getting very little love from prognosticators in today's papers. 'Michigan is a much better 3pt. shooting team than Cal or Marquette.' 'Michigan can nullify Syracuse's height advantage' 'Michigan has more weapons' 'Trey Burke is the player if the year, McGary is a monster...' Even NY Post college hoops guru Lenn Robbins has the Wolverines winning by 13. 13! Aight, cool. Bring it on...

Methead Apr 06 2013 08:25 AM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

I guess all of those things are true... but Michigan's not a great defensive team either. Orange could get blown out, sure. No idea what's going to happen but I think it will be a close one.

Fman99 Apr 06 2013 09:40 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Damn. With 15 seconds left, and down 3, how is your play "drive to the hoop and hope for the bucket and foul"? And not "shoot a 3"? This shit bothers me.

Methead Apr 06 2013 10:41 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Never thought Cooney would be the focal point of the offense at crunch time, but oh well. Everyone else fouled out. This game was winnable.

batmagadanleadoff Apr 07 2013 09:32 AM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Methead wrote: This game was winnable. Very winnable. SU's zone defense, though not as suffocating as in their first four tourney games, played good enough to win. The D did let up some on second chance shots allowed. McGary killed them with his loose ball tips and slaps to give Michigan several second shots. But in the end, this loss came the way most of their other losses came this season: from a ragged offense that barely showed up (other than Fair). SU's most important player this year (though not the best player) was Southerland. Once again, as Southerland went, so went the team. His stunning dunk and trey from the top of the key inside of the game's last two minutes were his only offensive moments of the game -- way too little, way too late. Gone -- Southerland, Triche, The Big East. Going? MCW? some think he's a lottery pick. Me - I question whether he has an NBA offense. Fair? Emerging -- Baye Mousse Keita, Grant. Coming -- A bunch of Tylers -- Roberson (a long forward - top 30 recruit per ESPN - top ranked high schooler from the state of NJ) & Ellis a (6'2" guard, excellent ball handler, O needs work). Duke, UNC and the rest of the ACC. On to Tobacco Road.

Methead Apr 07 2013 05:18 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Yeah, if MCW and Southerland had showed up even a little, things would be different today. I've been angry about last night most of the day, but it's fading. Next year's incoming class is supposed to be great. In addition to the two you mentioned there's also Duke transfer Michael Gbinije (6'7" G/F) who has been practicing with the team all year. Looking forward to seeing what he's made of. Pretty sure he'll have 2 years of eligibility left. A couple other guys too. http://verbalcommits.com/schools/syracuse

Centerfield Apr 09 2013 10:52 AM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

The loss sucked, but the Final Four run was great. And I find it's much easier to take the loss after 2003. That was the one we needed, any additional is sweet, but not as critical. Looks like they were playing for second place anyway. Louisville was not going to get beat. MCW is definitely gone. I hope CJ comes back and the two Tylers live up to the hype. I think Grant is going to be awesome. If Christmas or Coleman step up, next year could be pretty good too. What I am most sad about is leaving the Big East. Every year, I root for Big East teams during the early part of the season, despise them during Jan/Feb, then root for them come tournament time. I wonder how long it will take to feel any of that with ACC teams. I can't see myself rooting for Duke or Carolina, ever.

soupcan Apr 09 2013 11:33 AM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Surprisingly I wasn't as upset after SU lost to Michigan than I thought I'd be. I mean I was definitely bummed but it didn't last too long. Maybe because this Final Four run was so unexpected. When they beat Marquette to get to the FF I was just so thrilled with THAT. I suppose that's a good thing. Also excited for next year, too bad MCW is going to go. We all know he's not ready for the NBA and he would probably own college hoops next year. But hey man if somebody's willing to give him a bazillion $$$ you just can't blame him. I'm excited about C.J. & Grant. Really hoping that Coleman can be something like that McGary kid was for Michigan. With him, Keita and Christmas the middle should not be a problem at all. ACC will be new and different but with Pitt, Notre Dame, Boston College it will still have a little of the Big East feel. Duke and UNC will be exciting no matter how you feel about the conference switch. Good season!

soupcan Apr 10 2013 02:52 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Michael Carter-Williams, we hardly knew ye. Well, actually we knew you pretty well. Thanks for everything and when you're in the NBA try to have an idea where those passes are going once you find yourself mid-air in the middle of the lane.

Methead Apr 10 2013 06:55 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

soupcan wrote: Thanks for everything and when you're in the NBA try to have an idea where those passes are going once you find yourself mid-air in the middle of the lane. LOL. Almost exactly what I was going to say. It's a shame that's what will end up being part of his legacy, but it was frustrating after all. Good luck to him.

soupcan Apr 25 2013 09:06 AM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

C.J. Fair sez "what's life without a college degree?" and will return to SU for his senior year. Has sights set on being 'ACC Player of the year'. You go C.J.

Fman99 Apr 26 2013 08:20 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Very encouraging sign for the upcoming season, that Fair will return. Looking forward to seeing the ACC biggies come up here to play -- the 2013-14 schedule has Duck and NC both in the Dome.

Methead May 04 2013 07:02 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Just got a fb friend request from Lawrence Moten. Ha!

soupcan May 04 2013 08:25 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

Yeah, I got that too - what's up with that?

Methead May 07 2013 08:09 PM Re: Coleman 2.0 - Orange 2012-13

You and I both like the Nunes Magician blog. I gather he was going around and finding Cuse fans to connect with. I think he cancelled my friendship, I don't see the request anymore.