ForumsThe Halfcourt Trap Vol. I, No. 31
The Trap is preparing for a week spent glued to the conference tournament action that serve as the prelude to March Madness. Here’s what’s on my mind:
1. Big East Elimination Game. Villanova and Syracuse face off Wednesday at MSG in a game of considerable magnitude for the combatants. I can’t imagine a scenario in which the loser makes the NCAA field.
2. 30 x 3. Memphis made history Saturday with their demolition of UAB Saturday. They joined Kentucky as only the second program to string 3 consecutive seasons of 30 wins together. Say what you will about the relative strength of Conference USA, the Tigers’ accomplishment is extremely impressive.
3. Off The Beaten Path. Several coaches, notably Keno Davis and Randy Bennett, from smaller programs are drawing rave reviews for the job they’re doing this season. One coach who has gotten somewhat lost in the shuffle is Jacksonville’s Cliff Warren. Two years ago, Warren’s first season ended with the Dolphins 1-26 and sporting an RPI of 331. This season ended with Jacksonville in the Atlantic Sun final. Well done, Coach Warren.
4. PAC 10 Play Ins. Oregon, Arizona, and Arizona State will all look to solidify their ‘AA resumes at the Staples Center this week. The Ducks probably need two wins, while the ‘Cats and Sun Devils need one victory to breathe easier.
5. New Kid On The Block. San Diego is a program with a nice set of resources. Now, Billy Grier, a former Gonzaga assistant, has the Toreros in the NCAA field after scintillating wins over Gonzaga and St. Mary’s. It will be interesting to see if USD can build on this triumph and join the Zags and Gaels at the top of the WCC.
6. Ole Miss Opportunity. The Rebels were given up for dead by many, this columnist included. Now, with a couple of wins in Atlanta, Andy Kennedy’s troops have a shot to play themselves into the discussion for a tourney invite.
Until next week, stay classy, Volnation.
