- Maryland’s win over Michigan State is the big story at the Old Spice Classic. I agree with Gary Parrish (and NBA scouts) that today’s Tennessee-G’town game now looks like the best of the day. The Vols looked quite impressive on Thursday. Gary Williams is hot – at least this week.
- Michigan State lost because of rebounding and toughness, issues that will not sit well with coach Tom Izzo.
- Mystery matchup between Wichita State and Siena. Siena can’t shoot this poorly twice in less than 24 hours – can it?
- Ugly, ugly, ugly. The Hoyas must play better today against the Vols. Tennessee has wanted this matchup for several years. Georgetown coach John Thompson III, when asked, acted like he didn’t know anything about a possible series.
Around the MVC:
- UNI plays Marquette tonight. The Panthers might be able to exploit a height edge. Marquette’s guards are among the best groups in the nation.
- SIU’s Ryan Hare was a bright spot in a loss to Western Kentucky.
- Creighton guard P’Allen Stinnett may miss the Nebraska game with a wrist injury. Sounds like he has other issues, as well. He did not start Creighton’s last game. On the plus side – and it’s a big plus – freshman Josh Jones is healthy and loving basketball after undergoing heart surgery 14 months ago.
- Illinois State point guard Lloyd Phillips is adjusting quickly to Division I basketball.
- Missouri State has been the story so far in a dreary nonconference season for the Valley. The Bears try to go to 2-0 tonight in JQH Arena against Utah.