I do not understand how anybody can possibly defend Eleby, he is rotten! he cant shoot, yet was bombing up 3's and other awful shots. also, two of Andrew's foul came after a turnover or terrible shot of Eleby's! as far as his assists, who cant dump it down to Nicholson, its not like he is driving and creating shots for the other players. He is NO offensive threat at all and his defense is overrated, SLOW. I took some heat for previous posts like this but was not aware that this board was only to point the few positives about this team like Andrew, Davenport, and the development of Conger!
This goes deeper than Andy, obviously. His teammates would be one, but you've really gotta look at the other end of that bench and the coaching staff. Nicholson wasn't in foul trouble at all against Syracuse - a game which a lot of us thought he would be more likely to be in trouble than he was last night. Why? We played zone for a majority of the game. Obviously that has to do with us not being able to match up with 'Cuse, but we were able to spread the fouls around to other people and we stayed in the game.
Now look at last night. We have the size advantage, but they're quicker on the wings. The first half it was fine, but the second half (aside from simply making shots) they made a concerted effort to attack Andy in that man-to-man. They got him in foul trouble, not all from attacking him on the offensive end, but the point is he ended up on the bench. Then when Schmidt brings Nicholson back in, we stay in a man D (at least that's what I gathered from Gary) and now Niagara is making a full-out onslaught to isolate Andy ... and he could do nothing to stop them because of the 4 fouls.
I wasn't there last night, so if my assumption about us primarily playing man is wrong, then I'm sorry. But I really think it's something to take a look at, especially as we move into A-10 play. Would playing a zone, even if we might match up slightly better in man, be better off for protecting Andy, and ultimately the rest of the team?
Joined: Dec 2007 Gender: Male Posts: 413 Location: St. Bonaventure, N.Y.
Re: Back-off AN « Result #3 Today at 7:58pm »
I'm not questioning his skill set or makeup, I'm just confused why he seems to draw four fouls in 20 minutes seemingly every game. It's one thing to have poor officials, its another to make mental errors on a consistent basis.
Re: Andrew deserves blame for this loss « Result #4 Today at 7:38pm »
Difficult to play aggressive and passive. Choosing this rebound over next. Previous posters pointed out other people have to spell him minutes and do their share at the post position. We sure need other bodies badley to bump. Good to play aggressively but we can back off some if it is trading fouls when we have a big lead.
[quote author=jac board=general thread=6165 post=51706 time=1261574689] Coach, how is those Frosh supposed to learn if everytime they make a stupid play you yank them?
Part of coaching is teaching and everyone has their own style. It's like some on here think coach should use kid gloves and pamper these guys. He pulls them out and tells them what they did wrong and how to correct it. Lets them know they need to play smarter. What is wrong with that. This isn't 2nd grade hoops where you blow a whistle to stop the game so the coach can explain it right then and there.
Maybe he tongue lashes them because they continue to make the same dumb plays over and over. Believe me, it gets old watching it in the stands, I can't imagine how frustrating it is for the coaching staff.[/quote
Don't think you get the point pepp. The tongue lashings aren't the problem. It's whenever certain guys make one mistake, Schmidt immediately yanks them. Subsequently guys play uptight and instead of being aggressive, play not to screw up. That's the worst way to play basketball. Coach has to let these guys play through their mistakes at times and let them learn from it. I disagree with Schmidt when he says you don't learn anything from losing. You learn what it takes to get better and what you need to improve on to win games.
All that being said, let's be realistic about things. This is St. Bonaventure in the year 2009. To borrow a phrase, Bob Lanier, Tom Stith and Freddie Crawford aren't walking through the RC doors anytime soon. And if they do, they're old and gray. You build to win at Bona. Schmidt understand that. To borrow another phrase (Jim Baron) this year is part of the process. I'm excited about next season and the season after. That's when this team can get in postseason play.
We really need to keep in mind that this guy is a sophomore, and a lot is being placed on his shoulders. You see these kids like Wall from Ky and they are so good so early, you expect our guys to be the same - look at the way Eleby got beat-up here as a freshmen & soph point guard in quality league, playing against people with years more experience. The exceptions like Wall make it tougher on everyone else. Even as good as he looks, AN has a lot to learn - and it's not like he has had the benefit of playing with a senior who can show him the ropes - like how to play physical, but not get called for fouls when guarding a shorter player down low. Schmidt is recruiting quality 4-yr players now, and the system is just getting in place where we have upperclassmen who have been with the program, helping to teach the new players, much of which occurs over the summer and off-season - that's the consistency that quality programs have - we're not there yet, but the pieces are arriving.
Re: Officiating tonight « Result #7 Today at 7:33pm »
For those who habitually say we're getting jobbed, particularly as it pertains to #44 - please stop and take an objective breath. #44 fouls were all legit and happened because he makes bad decisions. The blocked shot refered to earlier was the easiest call of the four fouls. He did have the block clean at the apex but then he proceeded to "macho" the rejection by coming down and he clobbered the guy. The Brown & White are better but not yet a good team.
When will leadership come? « Result #8 Today at 7:29pm »
On court senior leadership may be a long time in coming. It doesn't seem to be there as of now. Perhaps junior college transfers, since they only play two years, are not that capable of providing leadership in their senior years. There could be many reasons for this, including the fact that they have not been interacting with students, faculty, coaches, and teammates for very long. They also lack the so called "baptism of fire" that freshmen get in their early game experiences. The better time for senior leadership is when four year players lead. They have a better understanding that it is their team. Eleby is a senior next year, but not sure one player can lead all by himself. The more logical time for serious senior leadership will be Nicholson's and Davenport's senior year. They will not tolerate underclassmen not giving it all, or making the same mistake over and over again.
Joined: Apr 2005 Gender: Male Posts: 541 Location: MSP
Re: Andrew deserves blame for this loss « Result #9 Today at 6:27pm »
I never got on the AN bandwagon last year. Too many early departures for me to have confidence in him.
I was changing my mind based on his early play this year, but now I'm back where I was. Unfortunately, the team can't depend on him.
I'm not going to lay all blame on AN for yesterday's loss. I believe he gets in the position where he commits some of his fouls due to breakdowns by others. I do think, however, he has to realize that giving up 2 points is better for the team if it keeps him and his offensive dominance in the game. I do think he has to make better decisions in those cases.
He's also going to have to be more careful in rebounding. He's got a target on his back, and the refs are looking for him, I'm afraid. He's got to figure out when he can afford to contest a rebound and when he needs to be more careful.
Re: Andrew Needs Help « Result #10 Today at 6:23pm »
A better question would be "this spring, who would have been the better recruit between Lytch or Roseboro?" This spring Roseboro was being recruited by BCS schools. Have to believe Schmidt would chosen Roseboro over Lytch, especially with Schmidt's focus on the future and not the present. Despite Brett's need for development, still believe he has good upside for an A-10 big man. We just need to be patient.
I wonder why Marquise Simmons does not receive more playing time. He has been productive when he has been on the floor.
Joined: Apr 2005 Gender: Male Posts: 541 Location: MSP
Re: Bad loss « Result #11 Today at 6:15pm »
I'm no wgt when it comes to analysis, but I've tried to look at the game flow/plays for those first 10 minutes of the 2nd half. It's not easy since the Niagara stat site is still live (:01 remaining in the game) so it kept resetting itself.
Anyway, it seems like we suffered from the synergy of turnovers, ineffective defense and a cold spell in shooting. I say synergy because I'm sure they likely fed on one another (and I want to avoid using a certain overworked cliche of the past decade).
Coach did call a timeout 4+ minutes into the meltdown. Probably too late, but it still required maturity and leadership on the floor to get the guys settled down instead of pressing and get themselves back into the game. that didn't occur until it was too late. The reversal in momentum was so large and quick that they were overwhelmed.
Wasn't Schmidt known for developing big guys @ Xavier?
You would think he would spend as much time as necessary working with Andrew. So how come the ongoing problems?
Andrew has developed tremendously. He is virtually unstopable when he has the ball down low. Schmidt has done a great job with him. Andrew has to learn to use better judgement to avoid cheap fouls. I think he showed marked improvement early this year in staying out of foul trouble. He has regressed. To me, that indicates the problem is Andrew, not coaching.
Joined: Apr 2005 Gender: Male Posts: 586 Location: Olean
Re: Andrew Needs Help « Result #14 Today at 5:30pm »
jmp, do you feel that Coach SCHMIDT and staff should take some of the blame for not having recruited a A10 quality point? HOUSE, COOK, & SIMMONS might get there some day but maybe the team and ANDREW miss GREASE THOMAS more than we think. I'm not saying GREASE should still be here but he had the size, skill, and importantly the experience we need. The staff had the right idea last year trying to recruit JC KEVON LYTCH(good size and skills, unfortunetly poor academics) but when LYTCH went elsewhere the staff was not recruiting anyone similar. This won't be popular with some but we need a big JUCO PF to compliment ANDREW until what we now have is ready.
If you actually watch him play and ignore his stats (they can be very misleading), you'd know he just isn't a high caliber guard. Not the type that Bonas is known for. He's not terrible in some aspects, but is absolutely abysmal in others. Last night he was flinging shots from everywhere - which he has no business doing. He's one of the worst D1 guards at shooting I've ever seen and should stick to bringing the ball up the court, looking for a pass to make and driving for the occasional layup. Ogo is no prize either, but does offer a bit more in some areas.
Compare our guard play to the guard play of the teams we've lost to and it becomes quite obvious what is missing here. It's just natural for those on this board to point out our weak areas and hope we can make changes - whether it be that guard improving or a new one taking over. Bonas guard play is a weakness right now and has been for a few years. If you don't think so, then you're seeing something I'm not.
Agree with most of your post. Malcolm's shot is horrible, which is reflected by the stats. 34% from the field and 17% from 3's is not good enough for a starting A-10 point guard. Have to give credit to Malcolm for his much improved play making, which is indicated by Brower's post.
Also agree with Bonaman's assessment of Malcolm being the better point guard. Only Ogo's shot is better, Malcolm is a better play maker, defender, and in taking it to the basket.
Joined: Dec 2007 Gender: Male Posts: 413 Location: St. Bonaventure, N.Y.
Re: Andrew deserves blame for this loss « Result #16 Today at 5:13pm »
I agree with you Chuck. At least last season when Andy got into foul trouble he was also swatting shots like flies. This season he really doesn't seem as imposing on the post; he just commits fouls.
I dont know why Eleby takes so much heat on this board.
If you actually watch him play and ignore his stats (they can be very misleading), you'd know he just isn't a high caliber guard. Not the type that Bonas is known for. He's not terrible in some aspects, but is absolutely abysmal in others. Last night he was flinging shots from everywhere - which he has no business doing. He's one of the worst D1 guards at shooting I've ever seen and should stick to bringing the ball up the court, looking for a pass to make and driving for the occasional layup. Ogo is no prize either, but does offer a bit more in some areas.
Compare our guard play to the guard play of the teams we've lost to and it becomes quite obvious what is missing here. It's just natural for those on this board to point out our weak areas and hope we can make changes - whether it be that guard improving or a new one taking over. Bonas guard play is a weakness right now and has been for a few years. If you don't think so, then you're seeing something I'm not.
Re: Andrew deserves blame for this loss « Result #18 Today at 4:55pm »
I'm not blaming the entire loss on Andrew, but I believe his decision making or basketball IQ was a big factor. It was a problem last year and a problem again this year. Andrew must play with more intelligence.
Re: Andrew deserves blame for this loss « Result #19 Today at 4:45pm »
It's tempting to agree with you, but I really can't ever blame a loss on a single player. The game is too complex and the different scenarios that could turn a loss into a win are endless.
Imagine what would have happened if we took care of the ball better - 20 turnovers vs 10. Look at how Eleby was 4 for 14 from the field and Davenport was 2 for 10. How about the fact that Matthews only took 6 shots? Adegboye was a non-factor, both in minutes and contributions.
I could find quite a few place to lay blame, but since it's a team game, I'll lay it squarely on the teams shoulders. Everyone needs to pick it up from here.
Give Niagara credit for taking our weakness and exploiting it.
I wasn't taking anything away from Niagara. I was pointing out what our weakness was at the time - Nicholson's defense - or should I say his inability to attempt to defend.
Niagara had a huge run at the beginning of the second half when Nicholson was in. We caught back up when he was on the bench and then we lost a bit of ground again when he was in.
In the first half when Nicholson went to the bench we continued to pull away. The same thing happened in the Syracuse game. When he went to the bench, we did as about as good as when he was in there. I'm just pointing out that our team is not completely dependent on him. It sounds to me like we lost this game to our inability to control the ball (way too many turnovers).
The title of the thread is obvious to everyone. Last nights loss was one of the worst in a long time considering the lead we had in the first half. That being said the flaws on this team are constantly getting in the way of us getting a signature win or beating any quality team for that matter. You can say what you want about Schmidt and that it was his fault we lost the game(which I dont agree with), but there are three major reasons why we keep losing these types of games and will continue to do so until we get better players: 1. POINT GUARD PLAY: any coach will tell you , you are only as good as your guards. We have Eleby, Ogo and Matthews. None can run the team like it should be handled. Controlling tempo, hitting the open man(Nicholson), breaking down another teams defense, being able to shoot from the perimeter to stretch a def.(only Matthews). Defensively they cant keep the opposition in front of them exposing Andrew in the back on many 2 on 1 situations causing him to foul. 2.#4 SPOT: Cook, Simmons, Jake, Brett are not good enough to make teams have to worry about them. One can rebound a little, one can play a little def, and so on. None have the skill level and athleticism to be a factor night in and night out. 3. LEADERSHIP: I see none from any senior, ever.
Joined: Apr 2005 Gender: Male Posts: 116 Location: Milan, Indiana
Re: Schmidt « Result #23 Today at 4:14pm »
I have observed Schmidt talking to players after pulling them. In fact, he seemed fairly calm when doing so. Some people are critical because the team is too undisciplined. Others complain that Schmidt is too harsh and has a quick trigger. I was present last night. The loss was not about coaching. It was about a lack of execution. It was about silly turnovers. It was about Andrew failing to adjust to his foul situation. It was about a lack of leadership on the floor when Andrew was sitting. It seemed like nobody was demanding the ball. Guys stood still and began to watch rather than play. I doubt the players on the floor will blame Schmidt for this loss. The program is progressing well from the depths of despair. We have some solid young 4 year players. Making Schmidt the brunt of the loss is naive. He called timeouts at critical junctures and instructed the players on what to do. They did not execute. We still need more talent. Particularly in the area of perimeter shooting. We are also lacking a true power forward. The staff will continue to upgrade the talent. It takes time to rebuild from a disaster such as the one we had. Relax. The guys have to focus on Canisius.
Andrew deserves blame for this loss « Result #24 Today at 4:01pm »
Andrew deserves blame for this loss. If he plays over 30 minutes the Bonnies win. Reason he plays only 16 minute is because of his decision making. There is not an excuse for Andrew to get 4 fouls in only 16 minutes, especially when the players guarding him are only 6'6" tall. This is coming after a game he is ejected for committing a flagrant foul. Three weeks prior to this he plays only 15 minutes against Illinois St.
Unfortunately it is a similar theme being repeated from last year. In 7 games Andrew plays less than 20 minutes, because of foul trouble. Andrew had 13 games with 4 or more fouls, which is almost half of the games he played last year.
Andrew is one of the best players in the A-10, but he needs to start making better decisions.
Coach, how is those Frosh supposed to learn if everytime they make a stupid play you yank them?
Part of coaching is teaching and everyone has their own style. It's like some on here think coach should use kid gloves and pamper these guys. He pulls them out and tells them what they did wrong and how to correct it. Lets them know they need to play smarter. What is wrong with that. This isn't 2nd grade hoops where you blow a whistle to stop the game so the coach can explain it right then and there.
Maybe he tongue lashes them because they continue to make the same dumb plays over and over. Believe me, it gets old watching it in the stands, I can't imagine how frustrating it is for the coaching staff.
The same mistakes over and over? Who, Jon Hall, Chris Matthews, Malcolm Eleby? Sure as hell not Conger or Simmons. They don't get a chance, as soon as Conger threw the ball away when he trapped in the corner against SU he was pulled. Chris Matthews continues to shoot 28 footers and no one tells him to stop? Hall for two years has made questionable decisions and has never once been sat. In fact, we all may remember Schmidt coming to his defense after the St. Louis game when he said something to the effect, maybe now you will understand why Jon Hall is in the game. In the first half yesterday, the Bonnies extended their lead after Andy left, Conger played a very efficient game during that stretch. Did he even see the court the second half? For two years it's seemed to me that he has been relucant (or unable) to make any in game changes. NU was on fire in the second half, did he once just try something different? Just to give them a different look? I sit across the court from the bench, I have yet to see him go down the bench to someone he has just pulled and talk to them, scream at them as they walk by? YEAH. Give them a dirty look? SURE. I understand that this is still not the most talent team. Really, I understand that. But last night, without Benn, even on the road, this should have been a win. PERIOD!
I think it all boils down to the lack of a winning culture at SBU. We need our players to exhibit the " I am the man" attitude in these competitive games.
Nicholson, unfortunately, now has the tag of talented but foul prone and that is going to follow him around until he learns how to be in the game for 30+ minutes.
In addition, we cannot afford to have mathews in the game chucking up low % 3's.
Mathews was 2 - 4 from 3 pt range, and is shooting 47.5% from behind the arc for the year. His 3 pt shooting is not the issue. While he generally takes care of the ball well, last night he did not. But, I'd like to see him be more than one dimensional on offense - drive to the hoop maybe, get to the line. He would thrive at the line.
I dont know why Eleby takes so much heat on this board. Granted, his shot selection hasnt been great, but he's currently 3rd in the A10 in assists (4.5 per game) and 10th in the A10 in Assist/TO ratio (50:32).
A couple of things I questioned in last night's game:
1) Nicholson (granted due to foul trouble), Matthews, Hall, and Eleby all on the bench during stretches in both the first and second half. When Nicholson goes out due to foul trouble, Matthews and Hall cannot both be on the bench at the same time.
2) No zone, of any kind?
3) When Niagara was going on there huge run, why wasnt Hall more involved in the offense? No plays seemed to be drawn up for him, and he didnt ever seem to command/go get the ball.
Joined: Apr 2005 Gender: Male Posts: 356 Location: vermont
Re: Schmidt « Result #31 Today at 12:56pm »
I think it all boils down to the lack of a winning culture at SBU. We need our players to exhibit the " I am the man" attitude in these competitive games.
Nicholson, unfortunately, now has the tag of talented but foul prone and that is going to follow him around until he learns how to be in the game for 30+ minutes.
In addition, we cannot afford to have mathews in the game chucking up low % 3's.
Joined: Apr 2005 Gender: Male Posts: 1,386 Location: Westchester, N.Y.
Feeling Like Rautins Did « Result #32 Today at 12:46pm »
At games end I felt like Rautins on his knees at the dome. The game started with Lewis making a trey just 5 seconds into the game & I thought “Here we go again against the Purple Eagles.” Then a half, on the road, that I couldn’t believe. No doubt Andrew is a huge difference maker but with The Professor on the bench for 13 mins plus in the first half we actually extended our lead from 10 to 19 points & headed to the lockers up 16. This team has shown they can play with Andy on the bench in other games but didn’t get it done in last night’s 2nd half.
The on court leadership issue is legit when you lose by 6 after a 19 point lead. You know you are in trouble when Malcolm takes more shots than all but Andrew. You are in even more trouble when he takes 5 treys (hitting 21% on the season), one more than Chris who hit 2-4. He made one (matching his season average) which was his most off target attempt banking in from the top of the key. Opposing teams must pray he shoots from outside. He works extremely hard & has improved his playmaking greatly this season but not his shooting.
Didn’t see the game but feel the refs were only a minor factor in the 2nd half comeback. They outscored us by 10 from the stripe taking 31 FTs to our 12. That disparity overcame the fact we hit 83% to their 64%. No doubt their speed to the hole created our reach in & on our heels D that created lots of whistles.
Gotta give tons of credit to Niagara but the Bonnies must feel they gift wrapped an early Christmas present. They have lots to ponder & work on over the Christmas break to get ready for Canisius.
I am troubled with this loss and it also has me (unfortunately) wondering about Schmidt, too. You simply cannot let a lead like that slip away. If we're blaming poor officiating then you gotta get out there and stand up for your players. Schmidt and Solomon never took a T for the team the way Baron would.
The past three years we've seen many games where we play well for only 20 minutes. Of course, in the prior regime we played well for 5 minute stretches...
It's time to tip our cap and admit that Mihalich is our Daddy.
Re: Eli Carter on TV tonight « Result #34 Today at 12:03pm »
Eli does play for St. Anthony's. They will need him since they recently lost one of their best big men to an injury. However, I believe that I saw on ESPN that Eli's team will play on ESPN on January 18 or 19 in a tournament. For the moment, his style of offensive play reminds me of Tim Winn. On the other hand, he is supposed to be an outstanding defensive player. I believe that Schmidt got a 3 to 4 year starter in Eli.
Bonas lost more ground the last 6.5 minutes when he was in. No doubt Nichloson can make the team much better. He just doesn't always do it. Defensively, he's become a liability since he can't guard anyone without fouling them in many games.
I can't really comment on the game since I didn't see it, but from what I heard, it sounded like we played extremely poorly. Something that a team that hasn't played much together is prone to do.
Losing ground in the last 6 1/2 mins had nothing to do with Andrew. In fact, I believe we were down 3 when he came in and he proceeded to score the next 4 points of the game on back to back possessions to give us a 1 point lead. Losing ground in the last 6 1/2 mins had more to do with Niagara, the streaky team that they are known to be, being on an absolute roll. We witnessed a Niagara cold streak in the first half and a Niagara hot streak in the second.
Andrew actually righted the ship offensively, but Michalak iso'ed Edwards 1 on 1 going at Andrew to try and pick up his fifth. Edwards dunked, then missed a layup, so we decided to double team to protect our best player from picking up his fifth, and he kicked out to Williamson for 2 3's. Give Niagara credit for taking our weakness and exploiting it.
Agree that they were on a hot streak. But when are we goign to find a consistent 2nd scoring option? Hall completely dissappeared. He should have been the go to guy at the end of the game. With his size and finishing ability, he should have dominated at the end, but apparently he along with everyone else, didn't want to be there in the second half and completely mailed it in on offense. Teams get hot, thats what happens in college bball, but you still have to score. 2 points through the first 8 minutes, with or wothout Andrew, is inexcusable.
Still trying to recover from last night's loss. Niagara is a good, well-coached team, but we have to start beating them and Canisius if we aspire in the future to be considered in the upper echelon of mid-majors. I think Schmidt is a very good coach, but agree he bears some of the blame for the debacle that was last night's second half. We seem to have a distressing tendency to be bipolar. One game we look like world beaters - the next game , sad sacks. Or even a first half where everything clicks, and a second half where they do very little right. Every team has it's ebb and flow, but it's become too much of a problem with us.
The other issue is that, as someone posted elsewhere, we are not as talented as we (I) thought. This is not intended to be a knock our players, who I believe are practicing hard, working out diligently and 'mostly' playing hard, all of which counts for a lot in my book. But the most essential ingredient is talent, and we still have a lot of holes, starting with our backcourt. We still do not have an "A" level A10 point guard. For all of his hard earned improvement, I don't think Eleby is yet a solid "B". Our guards have trouble defending quickness, they don't create the way you would like and they don't shoot well. Perhaps most importantly, they don't/can't control the game. When things start to go down the crapper, they can't get the game back under control. And sometimes they add to the madness.
Nothwithstanding our high shooting %, (which I think should be greatly attributed to Schmidt's offense) we are a poor shooting team. We need a few guys on the court who can consistently hit 15 - 18 foot jumpers. Davenport and Conger show signs, but not consistently. Maybe if Schmidt's leash on young players was not so short ? After Andrew, we are very limited up front. I love Hall's heart. But, is it just me, or does the kid often get the quietest double-double you've ever seen ? Cooke's effort and performance have both improved, but he doesn't compare favorably to anybody's starting A10 4. Simmons and Rosie will help in time, but will they become at least B+ A10 players ? That's what we need in at least a few spots on the floor to make big strides forward. Andrew is our go-to guy.... until he get's his quick 2 fouls and a seat, and then has to play defense with one hand behind his back when he get's fouls # 3 and 4. I thought he was doing a better job playing smart this year, but he's backslid lately. Coach must stop the madness with our "It was the best of times, it was the worst of times.." performances. But until we recruit a point guard on par with the best in the A10, and our next Ahmad Smith, Marquis Green, Kevin Houston, J.R. Bremer, etc., who wills us back into games when the opposition goes on a run, or the rest of the team suddenly falls apart for 10 minutes, our progress will be of the slow, incrimental variety.
In the meantime, let's win as many as we can with what we've got and not give any wins away.
When Nicholson sits out a majority of the game it is an incredibly different (and poorer) team.
Bonas lost more ground the last 6.5 minutes when he was in. No doubt Nichloson can make the team much better. He just doesn't always do it. Defensively, he's become a liability since he can't guard anyone without fouling them in many games.
I can't really comment on the game since I didn't see it, but from what I heard, it sounded like we played extremely poorly. Something that a team that hasn't played much together is prone to do.
Losing ground in the last 6 1/2 mins had nothing to do with Andrew. In fact, I believe we were down 3 when he came in and he proceeded to score the next 4 points of the game on back to back possessions to give us a 1 point lead. Losing ground in the last 6 1/2 mins had more to do with Niagara, the streaky team that they are known to be, being on an absolute roll. We witnessed a Niagara cold streak in the first half and a Niagara hot streak in the second.
Andrew actually righted the ship offensively, but Michalak iso'ed Edwards 1 on 1 going at Andrew to try and pick up his fifth. Edwards dunked, then missed a layup, so we decided to double team to protect our best player from picking up his fifth, and he kicked out to Williamson for 2 3's. Give Niagara credit for taking our weakness and exploiting it.
Coach, how is those Frosh supposed to learn if everytime they make a stupid play you yank them?
Part of coaching is teaching and everyone has their own style. It's like some on here think coach should use kid gloves and pamper these guys. He pulls them out and tells them what they did wrong and how to correct it. Lets them know they need to play smarter. What is wrong with that. This isn't 2nd grade hoops where you blow a whistle to stop the game so the coach can explain it right then and there.
Maybe he tongue lashes them because they continue to make the same dumb plays over and over. Believe me, it gets old watching it in the stands, I can't imagine how frustrating it is for the coaching staff.
Andrew needs to play 30 minutes plus for this team to be dangerous. His offensie numbers are amazing considering he plays about 20 minutes a game. I think we will be back to D'Quan starting with Davenport off the bench because we need his size. I also think Roseboro will be more of a factor as the year goes on. I am at 20 plus wins for the season so I expected better results so far. I think the officiating in the league will be more consistent than what we have now. Lets beat Canisius and Marshall and go into January with some momentum. I expected some bad losses and this is one of them. We will also have some great wins. I really can't complain with where we are right now after living through the Sol era. Keeping Andrew on the court is the key. He is unstoppable when he gets the ball down low.
I don't know how to put this but I'm kind of a big deal.
Joined: Apr 2005 Gender: Male Posts: 293 Location: Allegany
Re: Schmidt « Result #40 Today at 10:24am »
This is on Schmidt, PERIOD! Vinny Del Negro has been crucified for blowing a big lead. It's time for the captain of this ship to take a little responsiblity!!! What I don't understand is when Conger or Simmons or Roseboro makes a freshmen mistake he immediately turns to the bench, but when Hall (who has been much better then last year) or Matthews (who couldn't guard a statue) makes a bad pass, nothing. Coach, how is those Frosh supposed to learn if everytime they make a stupid play you yank them? If it was me I'd be playing NOT to F' up. For me, the honeymoon's over, time to win and stop blame the mess he inherited or the lack of talent. You had more talent then NU last night but were out coached!!!
I am not an expert on coaching techniques, but I do know that this team should not have lost to Niagara. However he does it Schmidt needs to step up his game. I still support him, but it is time for results. Every coach has their different styles, Schmidt has his, which I have no problem with. It boils down to "just win baby".
Re: Eli Carter on TV tonight « Result #43 Today at 9:55am »
He plays for The St. Anthony Friars out of Jersey City, NJ. Here is an older but good interview with the kid. He seems to have a good head on his shoulders and wont be surprised if he can contribute right away due to the fact that St. Anthonys is a powerhouse and usually plays a tough schedule against some very talented teams. They are also coached by arguably the greatest high school coach of all time in Bobby Hurley.
Eli Carter on TV tonight « Result #44 Today at 9:25am »
I think Eli Carter will be on TV tonight on espnU , doesnt he play for St. Benedicts?......might be wrong, but its worth checking out...i will be travelling and unfortunately have to miss it....
Joined: Apr 2005 Gender: Male Posts: 964 Location: Vestal, NY
Re: Officiating tonight « Result #45 Today at 9:19am »
This is why the coaching staff can't be content with just him as a go to big man. If Roseboro or Simmons are expected to be complementary pieces, the staff has to acquire a scoring big man to off-set some of the foul trouble Nicholson gets into.
Re: Officiating tonight « Result #46 Today at 9:15am »
I am not disputing that the calls were bad. I wasn't there and you guys were. I am sure it was awful. But, I am getting a little concerned that we seem to have this same conversation about Andrew and terrible officiating and phantom foul calls almost every other game. Is it something he is doing? Do the refs not like his body language after calls? Is he getting a reputation? Does he just not know defense well enough yet to avoid getting fouls called on him? I don't know, but this trend of him getting cheap fouls and getting pulled for huge portions of games is getting old.
Re: What a pathetic loss. « Result #47 Today at 9:10am »
My problem with this loss, and the team as a whole, is that there is no established leader at all. We need someone who can go out there and calm his team down, or make them step up when they have to. It was sad, because without Andrew, this team unfortunately has no identity, and that comes from not having an established on the court leader.
Coach was responisble for this lost. He made no adjustments at all. He had no idea how to stop their run. Why not go into a zone? The players are playing like they are afraid to make a mistake and it is costing terrible turnovers.
Are you saying he played against these little speed demons man-to-man the whole game? (I wasn't there).
When Nicholson sits out a majority of the game it is an incredibly different (and poorer) team.
Bonas lost more ground the last 6.5 minutes when he was in. No doubt Nichloson can make the team much better. He just doesn't always do it. Defensively, he's become a liability since he can't guard anyone without fouling them in many games.
I can't really comment on the game since I didn't see it, but from what I heard, it sounded like we played extremely poorly. Something that a team that hasn't played much together is prone to do.
Coach was responisble for this lost. He made no adjustments at all. He had no idea how to stop their run. Why not go into a zone? The players are playing like they are afraid to make a mistake and it is costing terrible turnovers.
Joined: Dec 2007 Gender: Male Posts: 413 Location: St. Bonaventure, N.Y.
Re: Schmidt « Result #51 Today at 3:38am »
I agree Avon with Schmidt's somewhat negative impact during games. I always laugh to myself when I can predict the instant a player makes a mistake that he will turn on a dime, prowl the bench and grab someone else to run out there.
Last year was the worst and he has gotten better I suppose, but it still happens all the time. Malcolm throws the ball away? Next timeout he gets run for Ogo. Ogo makes a bad pass? Let's see if Malcolm has learned his lesson.
I don't understand coaches that NEVER celebrate or congratulate their players and Schmidt is certainly one of them. I know these players don't need a sippy cup and a pat on the back, but I can say without a doubt the constant threat of benchings and the icy stare they usually get doesn't positively motivate them.
What I don't like or understand about Schmidt is this constant frown on his face toward a player he questions during timeouts and can't seem to "let it go". Skip Prosser was in a word his mentor, and I don't remember Skip using such a tactic to coach a kid. Yes, you can chew a kid out, but do it and move on. Don't sit there frowning at the player, basically making the player feel he's let the team down. I am dissapointed by this loss. I was there and saw a Niagara comeback that was "officially" aided, but a comeback nonetheless. I saw Mahalik high five-ing his players as he exhorted on their play. Did they make mistakes? Sure, but I saw their coach instructing constructively what should be done next, not wallowing in the past. Having said all that, I think Schmidt has done a great deal for our program and has brought in some very good athletes. I also attented the Syracuse game and was pleased with the effort with and without Andrew. Toward the end tonite, after another timeout and probably a tongue lashing, Eleby tried to rally his teammates as they took the court for the last minute of play. Our team looked demoralized and yes, probably brought on themselves, but I think coach may have played a role too.
Re: Officiating tonight « Result #53 Today at 3:18am »
I was at the game and yes the officiating was horrible, especially on Andrew. The first 2 fouls were bad assumptions on the refs part. The first was a stuff so clean that Andrew actually came down with the ball in one hand and then looked around incredulously once the whistle sounded. His third foul, very, very early in the second half might have been legit, but the fourth was another phantom foul. I feel for the kid. He clearly was the best player on any court in Western New York and all of us were deprived of seeing him play his game. I sat next to a Niagara fan and he said the officiating was terrible. (I do have some thoughts on Coach though - over to the other thread.)
Re: What a pathetic loss. « Result #55 Today at 3:01am »
The Bonnies played horrible the second half, but don't blame Nicholson. Due to fouls he was out for most of the game (and most of those fouls were pretty lame calls). Schmidt should have put him in earlier in the second half. This team is an entirely different team with him in the line-up.
no this was the players... with a little help from the officials.... that lost this game. The team is still rebuilding. There are still a number of pieces to put in place (such as point guard!) in the future.
Re: Officiating tonight « Result #58 Today at 2:46am »
As someone who was there ....The officiating was HORRIBLE especially in the second half. Every little touch from the Bonnies was called and very little was called on the Eagles. Given that though the beginning of the second half was incredibly slopping by the Bonnies. Poor shot selection and bad passing. 2 points in about 8 minutes. Just horrible. This team is incredibly different without Nicholson in the line-up. Schmitdt held him out too long in the second half. I hate playing these MAAC teams. The refs just don't allow the physical play that the A-10 or bigger leagues allow. If this had been at the RC it would have been a 20 point win.
Re: Officiating tonight « Result #60 Today at 1:28am »
Every loss always has some alleged officiating conspiracy. If I didn't know any better you'd think the refs are conspiring against the program to keep them from becoming relevant again. It's not just this year either, it's been a constant notion on this board for a few years now.
It used to be the A-10 refs determined who wins each game based on league preference (which I'm sure will come up once league play starts and SBU loses a close game to one of the "preferred" schools). This year we've got into the act early and are proclaiming injustices in the non-conference schedule.
How about better shot selection, play D with your feet not your arms, and don't turn the ball over so much. I don't think the refs are influencing bad decisions and lazy effort on D.
Is anyone else starting to wonder about Coach Schmidt? It is great that he is not Solomon, but that is not enough. There is no reason we should have lost to this team. We blew a 21 point lead. In the 2nd half the players were lost and Schmidt was also. Give me a game where Schmidt has outcoached someone? I am not calling for his head or anything like that, but we need to not lose this type of game. Players need to do their part, but so does the coach.
This Book Makes Me Want to Puke.. « Result #63 Yesterday at 11:40pm »
I hope they ban this Book on Campus - I hope the student Body has a good joke for our friend Coach Martelli when he shows up on campus this year.
Phil Martelli's Book Now Available
Sept. 14, 2007
PHILADELPHIA - Saint Joseph's basketball coach Phil Martelli makes his debut in the literary world, as his book entitled "Don't Call Me Coach: A Lesson Plan for Life" is now available. It is co-written by Martelli and Harold Gullan, Ph.D.
The book is now available thru www.caminobooks.com and www.amazon.com, and will be in Barnes and Noble and Borders bookstores next week (Sept. 17).
Martelli will have also a number of book signings in the area. On October 6, he will be at the Collingswood (NJ) Book Festival. On October 17, Martelli will sign books at the Barnes & Noble in Rittenhouse Square (7 p.m.) and on November 14, he will be at Borders in Wynnewood. On-campus book signings will be announced, with the schedule continuously updated on www.sjuhawks.com.
In the book, Martelli passes on what he has learned from his own rich experience, which includes over 30 years of coaching at the high school and college levels. One of America's most colorful, outspoken, and successful coaches, Martelli compresses his three decades of experience into a 10-point "lesson plan for life" that will benefit anyone, no matter what the challenges may be. He speaks equally to teachers, parents, educators, and business executives--in short, to anyone who plays the role of coach in daily life.
Gullan, a noted historian and sports fan, is also the author of The Upset That Wasn't, Faith of Our Mothers, First Fathers, and Jumping Through Hoops.
The book, published by Camino Books of Philadelphia, includes a forward from Pennsylvania Governor Ed Rendell.
Book Synopsis: At last, those of us not lucky enough to hear Phil Martelli in person can now draw inspiration from his book. "Don't Call Me Coach" ($24.95 hardcover) presents him at his compelling and captivating best, as he finally puts into print the mantra of his memorable speeches. In fact one of America's most colorful, outspoken, and successful coaches, Martelli compresses his three decades of experience into a ten-point "lesson plan for life" that will benefit anyone, no matter what the challenges may be.
"We are all coaches," he insists, and each of us represents a book of unique experiences others can learn from. We are defined not by what we do, but by who we are. Yet we should not take ourselves seriously, but, rather, what we do. And so, even though he was named college basketball's Coach of the Year in 2004, this quintessentially regular Philly guy prefers not to be addressed as Coach Martelli. "If you will, just call me Phil. . . . This book is my conversation with you."
This unpretentious tone pervades Don't Call Me Coach--as distinctively different from most life-lessons books as Phil Martelli's spontaneous HawkTalk is from other coaches' tightly scripted TV shows. Martelli's experiences within his own extended family--often funny, sometimes poignant, and always instructive--form a warmly personal background to everything he spells out in his book. Having turned down far more lucrative offers to coach at mega-universities, Martelli enters another new season at the helm of the storied men's basketball program at Philadelphia's Saint Joseph's University. As he puts it, "You have to know where your heart is."
These expressions of his heart and mind will resonate in yours, no matter where you went to school, and whether you're an avid sports fan or not. As Phil concludes, "The Hawk Will Never Die!" is more than the slogan of one specific university. It represents the will to excel, to never give in--an approach to life we can all share.
Re: What a pathetic loss. « Result #65 Yesterday at 11:19pm »
One of the team sponsors should be TUMS for the Bonnie faithful. I love the team, always will but....this was one of those nights that makes me burn up.
Re: What a pathetic loss. « Result #66 Yesterday at 11:19pm »
Bonnies need to get some guards that can shoot. This will happen again and again until we recruit some shooters. The offense was somewhat discombobulated also.
Re: What a pathetic loss. « Result #67 Yesterday at 11:16pm »
MM, I thought Schmidt would change up from having Andrew on Edwards even though he gave help, to prevent him from being isolated but I guess this didn't happen. Williamson should have been guarded closer when he got hot. Until we have a top PG, protecting the ball when leading will be an adventure.
Can anyone who listened to WPIG's broadcast or was there live comment on the officiating?
The officials were Joe DeMayo, Willie Pulliam and Gene Steratore, two of which have been bashed on the Bandwagon in the past. Just wondering how those two did.
Re: What a pathetic loss. « Result #70 Yesterday at 11:15pm »
Horrible Loss! I could not listen or watch the game, but 20 turn overs, we beat them in so many ways but the turn overs gave this game to Niagara. We need someone else to step up other then Andrew. We play Syracuse hard and come out with a lead against Niagara then this. They better be ready for Tuesday night this loss is going to come back to bite the Bonnies.
Re: Niagara Game Thread « Result #72 Yesterday at 11:13pm »
When the A-10 games start appearing this is going to be a nightmare if this team cannot find a way to play on the road with any degree of consistency. I am disgusted, if a team can keep Nicholson in foul trouble, there is very little else to be concerned about for opponents. Yes it will be nice to be back in the old Rielly Center, but reality is we cannot play all our games there.
Rivals Fordham home game last year as worst loss of Schmidt era. However, any who thought this was an 18-, or 19-win team was delusional. Niagara won at Illinois State without Benn. We did not. Nicholson has to play smarter. But chucking in the towel is kind of pointless. What, exactly, will that accomplish?
Bonnies have some soul-searching to do. Came up extremely small in the second half. Thought this team was ready to show growth by beating Niagara. VERY disappointing.
Joined: Dec 2007 Gender: Male Posts: 413 Location: St. Bonaventure, N.Y.
Re: Bad loss « Result #80 Yesterday at 11:07pm »
Inexcusable, deplorable, embarrassing, laughable, depressing. Once, just ONCE during my four years did I want us to beat Niagara so I could shut up my friends who go there.
How we lost to an undersized team of eight players will confuse me for the rest of the season. This team should be utterly ashamed of themselves. Say what you will, but I am officially out of this season for the men.
It may seem like they're playing basketball under water but at least the women know how to extend a lead rather than blow it. I may read this tomorrow and think I overreacted, but I highly doubt it.
What a pathetic loss. « Result #82 Yesterday at 11:06pm »
No excuses, this was a pathetic second half. Twenty turn overs is inexcusable. How can Nicholson be so prone to fouls, is it his aggressive style or is he getting isolated by the ref's. This game was disheartening to listen to from every vantage point. How can they give away a comfortable half time lead and totally fall apart in the second half. Can't anybody step up and be a leader on this team on any kind of consistent basis? The Brown and White cannot win on the road, and the A-10 will be a lot tougher on the road than Niagara. This was one sad team effort in the second half. I will be interested to hear what Schmidt says in the post game show. I will always be cheering on the Bonnies, but this was a pathetic give away game.
Re: Niagara Game Thread « Result #83 Yesterday at 11:05pm »
Bonnies have some soul-searching to do. Came up extremely small in the second half. Thought this team was ready to show growth by beating Niagara. VERY disappointing.
Joined: Apr 2005 Gender: Male Posts: 203 Location: Rochester, NY
Re: Niagara Game Thread « Result #90 Yesterday at 10:57pm »
Wait a minute...we were up by how many at halftime with Andrew only playing 6 out of 20 minutes?? We just were in "zombie mode" at the beginning of the second half and let them back in it....no excuse....we're gonna lose our SEVENTH in a row to these jokers!
Re: Niagara Game Thread « Result #98 Yesterday at 10:42pm »
Nicholson back in with just under 7 left. Feel like this might be a tad early but we'll see. Would a zone be reasonable to protect him/prevent NU attacking him every trip and having Andy back off, allowing easy bucket?
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No excuses, this was a pathetic second half. Twenty turn overs is inexcusable. How can Nicholson be so prone to fouls, is it his aggressive style or is he getting isolated by the ref's. This game was disheartening to listen to from every vantage point. How can they give away a comfortable half time lead and totally fall apart in the second half. Can't anybody step up and be a leader on this team on any kind of consistent basis? The Brown and White cannot win on the road, and the A-10 will be a lot tougher on the road than Niagara. This was one sad team effort in the second half. I will be interested to hear what Schmidt says in the post game show. I will always be cheering on the Bonnies, but this was a pathetic give away game.