Boston College Basketball 2011-12 Projections and Preview

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Jack_T_Jones]Jack T Jones
In 2010-11 Boston College had an overall record of 21-13 and 9-7 in ACC action. It was Steve Donahue's first year as head coach, but he will be starting from scratch this season since all of his starters are now gone. His junior star Reggie Jackson announced for the draft while his senior starters Joe Trapani, Corey Raji, Biko Paris, and Josh Southern all graduated. Jackson was the top scorer at 18.2 ppg and will be the most sorely missed.
Now, Boston College is considered the most inexperienced team in the ACC and could struggle to compete. With no veteran starters or players who have averaged more than 16 minutes per game, it will be difficult for the team to have much success this season. Donahue is building a team with freshman players and this class was not rated that highly by any recruiting service.
However, Donahue saw success creating an Ivy League power house in Cornell so he might be able to the same thing for Boston College. Donahue is known for choosing players who can work with his system though they may not be the most athletic. This is something we can look forward this season for Boston College. They may not have the most talent, but if they play hard and follow into what Donahue teaches the team could surprise a few people.
Backcourt
In Boston College's backcourt, we need to see how quickly the freshmen develop their games. Gabe Moton was the only freshman on scholarship last season but he was just scoring 2.5 points per game. He shot just 26% from behind the 3-point arc. He may be good at defending the basket but he needs to step up his offensive game. Danny Rubin is a sophomore who shoots well from the 3-point range with stats of 43%. Jordan Daniels is a former player who is a quick decision-maker while Lonnie Jackson is an excellent shooter but he needs to build up his body to be a great defender.
Frontcourt
In their frontcourt, a 7-foot freshman named Dennis Clifford had stats of 18 points, 14 rebounds, and 7 blocks per game during his senior year in high school. KC Caudill is an excellent half-court player but has difficulty running the court due to his weight being at 295 lbs. Ryan Anderson was a sought-after player by many recruiters because at 6'8", he can shoot from long range and plays smart. Eddie Odio, Ryan Kilcullen, and John Cain Carney are other players who might be seeing some time on the court for Boston College.
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Baylor Basketball Projections and Preview for the 2011 Season

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Anthony_Moretti]Anthony Moretti
The Baylor Bears finished the 2010-11 season with an overall record of 18-13. Baylor missed the postseason for the first time since 2007, but should bounce back this year with a strong recruiting class. Though the Bears had a disappointing last season, Lace Darius Dunn become the school and the Big 12's all-time leading scorer. The Bears also have a record of 91-47 spanning the last four seasons which is the best mark the school has achieved since way back in 1945-1950.
Last season, Baylor played tough at home. In the Big 12, they had a 7-9 mark and were eliminated in the first round of the tournament when they lost to Oklahoma. With Dunn leading the way, Baylor put up 69.5 ppg while shooting 47% from the floor. However, the bad news for Baylor is that Dunn will not be returning this season. The Bears will miss the 19.5 ppg that he contributed.
Yet, Baylor Basketball still has an impressive roster which will make them a serious contender this season. The Bears will be hungry to end their conference championship drought that extends all the way back to the Southwest Conference in 1950.
Though Dunn is gone, Baylor still has Quincy Acy, Anthony Jones and Perry Jones III. These are three of the best and most athletic players in the conference. Due to this, Baylor is considered to be one of the top 16 teams in the early polls.
Baylor's backcourt is led by, A.J. Walton. Walton put up 7.9 ppg and 4.7 assists per game last season. Walton will be joined by freshman Deuce Bello, sophomore Gary Franklin, sophomore Brady Heslip and junior Pierre Jackson. Among the new players, Heslip is considered as the best outside shooter and he is now playing for the Canada's Senior Men's National Team. Jackson was the 2011 NJCAA Division I Player of the Year and could give immediate help.
Baylor's frontcourt is still led by the team's top three players, Quincy Acy, Anthony Jones and Perry Jones III. Newcomer Quincy Miller was a very highly touted recruit and should contribute right away. Miller is the second top 10 recruit for Baylor following Jones III. Returning forward Cory Jefferson is also expected to contribute to the team after seeing some action overseas in a couple of European tours. To fortify the frontcourt of Baylor Basketball, seniors Fred Ellis and J'mison Morgan will also be returning this season.
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Missouri Basketball Preview and Projections for 2011

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Jack_T_Jones]Jack T Jones
The Missouri Tigers had a 2010-11 overall record of 23-11 and 8-8 in the Big 12. However, this team will be going through plenty of changes this season with head coach Mike Anderson leaving the team at the end of the year. Anderson had given the school a record 77 wins over his past three seasons and reached the NCAA tournament all three years.
Missouri does have a pair of juniors they will be able to rely on during the coaching transition. Both are now part of the 1,000-point club. Marcus Denmon became a member of the first team All Big 12 team with his 50% shooting and ranking as a top player in terms of shooting, steals, and assists.
Missouri Basketball will be coming in this season with the loss of two players -Ricky Kreklow and Justin Safford. Neither player was a game-changer offensively so a big drop off is not expected for this season.
Frank Haith will be in his first year as head coach of the Tigers this season. He inherits a strong team with all of its five starters and top six scorers returning. This season is promising for them with Laurence Bowers, Marcus Denmon, Kim English and Steve Moore all back and all of them have made significant contributions the past few seasons.
The backcourt contains the most experience with almost all starters entering their senior year. Missouri is led by veterans Marcus Denmon and Kim English who are now both members of the 1,000-point scorers club. Denmon is seen to be the more efficient player with stats of 16.9 ppg on 50% shooting and has hit 45% from the 3-point area.
English is entering the season after posting double figures in points for two straight years. He shot a lowly 37% from the floor and but impressively matched that mark from behind the arc. In addition to that, he has also improved his assists to turnover ratio.
Another backcourt player returning this season is one of the quickest guards in Big 12, Michael Dixon. Dixon had a career high of 113 assists, and 10.3 ppg and 1.8 steals per game last year.
In the frontcourt, three key players and two newcomers are expected to see significant time. The frontcourt is led by Laurence Bowers and Ricardo Ratliffe, both are All-Big 12 selections from a year ago. Bowers is a very talented forward while Ratliffe was named Big 12 Newcomer of the Year. With a solid backcourt and a strong frontcourt, this can be a big year for Missouri Basketball.
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What to Do When an Interview Is Squashed and You Still Need a Story

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Craig_Greenlee]Craig Greenlee
What do you do when a hard-to-get interview is cancelled and you're still expected to produce a story anyway? Having a panic attack wouldn't be all that unusual. But you still have to recover, and there's still a story that has to be written.
That was the situation for me several years ago when I was sports editor of UPSCALE Magazine. My Monday interview with basketball superstar Michael Jordan was called off at the last moment. The reason for Jordan being a no-show was understandable. Two days before our scheduled interview, MJ's father - James Jordan - was the victim of a road-side murder in North Carolina.
When the news broke, I knew immediately that the interview would not be rescheduled. It would be way past my deadline by the time Jordan would be available again.
At that point, I had a lot more questions than answers. Even though the interview was nixed, the story was still slotted for the magazine's front cover. I was in scramble mode.
Now I needed to do some extensive background research and figure out a way to be inventive in my approach. This was a little more labor intensive back in the early '90s than it is now. So, I launched my assault on the library stacks, sifting and sorting through mounds of magazines and newspapers.
What kind of information was I after? I looked for details in previously published stories that I could expand on. Since I didn't have Jordan to talk to, why not talk to others who are around him? Those "others" I'm referring to includes teammates, trainers, equipment managers, and even sports writers. They're not difficult to deal with, and in most cases, they're fairly accessible.
True enough, relying on these sources is not the same as speaking to the man himself. But keep in mind that they are viable in that they can readily supply useful tidbits that can help you write a compelling story.
That's why I talked to Mark Vancil, a veteran sports writer, who covered the Bulls during the Jordan era. Vancil collaborated with MJ on the autobiography Rare Air: Michael on Michael. During the course of our conversation, Vancil gave me a glimpse of the basketball megastar that few people ever see. This sequence was a good fit for UPSCALE's 1994 cover story that entitled "Flight 23 Has Landed."
One afternoon, the gym floor at the Bulls practice facility was empty except for three people - Michael Jordan and his two sons. Father and sons wrestle each other and eventually the two tykes stop wrestling and race against each other to retrieve the nearest basketball. Then they run back to MJ and make their requests. "Lift me up Daddy, I want to dunk it," the boys said.
I appreciated Vancil's input, but felt like there was still a missing element to this story. It needed to be something personal that would help me to convey Jordan's passion for a game that made him a multi-millionaire.
That's when I thought about an unexpected personal experience I had in watching Jordan play. For me, there's one sequence that really stands out. Below is an excerpt from the magazine's cover piece. The photographer mentioned in this narrative is yours truly:
After finishing off one of his outrageous dunks, Jordan's momentum causes him to collide with one of the court-side photographers. Jordan apologizes for the unscheduled landing, rubs the photographer's head like a crystal ball, gives a familiar wink, then struts back to play defense at the other end of the floor. It's clear for all to see that Jordan loves this game.
I would have felt a lot better about the Jordan story if it had included our interview. But I had no control over that. By digging for details and cultivating secondary sources of information, I was able to make the best of a less than desirable situation. In a perfect world, the story wasn't what I originally envisioned. But with some thoughtful planning, I was able to give readers a deeper sense of what it was that made Michael Jordan tick.
Craig T. Greenlee is a seasoned sports writer/editor/photographer who earned B.A. and M.A degrees in journalism from Marshall University. Magazines/journals: sports editor, UPSCALE Magazine; former correspondent, Black Issues In Higher Education. Newspapers: sports editor, Winston-Salem Chronicle (NC). Started out as copy editor/layout artist with News & Record sports (NC). Joined writing staff later on (primary beats: community/college sports, arena football).
To Learn More Please Visit: http://novembereverafter.com/
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?What-to-Do-When-an-Interview-Is-Squashed-and-You-Still-Need-a-Story&id=6659773] What to Do When an Interview Is Squashed and You Still Need a Story

How to Be Quicker in Basketball - Four Cone Drill

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Dick_Blanchard]Dick Blanchard
In basketball, there are a lot of things that you, as a player can't control. You can't control your genetics, which determine your height and size, which ultimately can determine which postion you will play. Fortunately, some key elements of your game can be controlled by you through basketball speed and quickness drills.
All superstar basketball players have something in common, and that is the ability to move efficiently throughout the given space on the court. Vertical leap is important, but having speed, agility, and quickness is essential to excel in basketball.
Although I would highly recommend committing to a legitimate basketball conditioning program (see below), the following drill, the four-cone drill,  will help improve footwork, explosiveness, and agility.
Four-Cone Drill:

The four-cone drill is a highly specialized, yet very simple drill that helps players learn to explode quickly, then change direction on a dime. To start, grab four cones (or shoes, bags, etc..) and place them in a ten foot by ten foot square. Next, set a timer for one minute and prepare to begin.
In this drill, you will set up a pattern that you will run, touching all four cones, and sprint this pattern at full speed for one minute sets. For example, you may start by sprinting to the cone directly in front of you, then shuffle to the diagonal cone, then sprint to the next cone straight ahead, then shuffle back to the start. There are tons of variations to this drill, but remember to include straight sprints, shuffling, and backpeddling into this exercise, as these are all motions in an actual basketball game.
As a coach, I usually have my players do each pattern three times, with a three minute rest in between sets. I generally switch the pattern four times to include every motion in the game of basketball. One minute intervals may not seem like a long time from a spectators view, but I can assure you that your legs will be dead by the end of this.
Throughout the entirety of this drill, it is important to focus on the fundamentals that this exercise focuses on. As you approach each cone, consider how you will slow down, turn, and explode away in the most efficient way possible. Your legs will be extremely heavy, but keep in mind the importance of good footwork and fundamentals.
Like I said above, a basketball conditioning program is highly recommended, but for those who don't have the means to enroll in one, this four-cone drill is a great start. After a few weeks of doing this (maybe 2-3 times a week), you, your coach, and most importantly, your competition, will all notice a change in your athleticism.
Footwork, speed, quickness, and vertical leap all contribute to the athleticism of a basketball player. If you're an aspiring baller at any level, I'd recommend that you check out my other article where I talk about the program that I prescribe to all of my players. Follow this link to learn [http://www.squidoo.com/how-to-be-quicker-in-basketball]how to be quicker in basketball
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How to Be Quicker in Basketball - Suicides

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Dick_Blanchard]Dick Blanchard
Learning how to be quicker in basketball is all about the time and effort you are willing to put forth. For some, speed and quickness come naturally, but for most of the world, it is something that takes practice and dedication. Genetically, Dwight Howard has an advantage over most other players, but that doesn't mean smaller players, like Derrick Rose, can't put up the same number of buckets as Howard.
Players at all levels can benefit by improving speed and quickness. For years, it was thought that agility was mainly based on genetics, and while genetics may still play a large part, quickness drills can drastically improve the agility of a basketball player.
As a coach, I always recommend that my players participate in an organized basketball conditioning program, but for those that can't afford one, here is a famous, but very helpful drill that we run at almost every practice.
Suicides: I can remember running suicides in almost every sport I've ever played, starting at a young age. These are applicable to every sport, and there are also variations that can specifically target the motions used in basketball.
For basic suicides, line up on the baseline and sprint to the closest free throw line, then turn and sprint back to the line. Immediately turn, and sprint to half court and back. Next, go to the far free throw line and back, then finish by sprinting to the far base line then back to the beginning baseline.
After completing that circuit, rest for about three minutes, then do it again! In one practice session, you will want to do this between three and five times.
Keep in Mind: This drill is designed to help you explode into a sprint, so as you approach each turn, quickly chop your feet, then turn and explode outwards. Those first few steps is what sets you apart from your opponent. Remember to stay low, and use your torso to propel your body as you turn.
Variations: To get a more customized workout for basketball, you can switch the motions to replicate what you would do on the court. For example, you may want to switch between shuffling, sprinting, and back peddling as you go. Shuffling is one of the main motions in basketball, so if you can target those muscles during this exercise, you will be that much better than your competition. This will also improve your footwork, which of course is very important.
As I previously stated, a legitimate basketball conditioning program will teach you how to be quicker in basketball, but this suicide drill and its variations will definitely help. Outside of practice, try going to the gym and doing this three times a week. After about two weeks, you, your coaches, and your opponents should all be able to see a difference in your athleticism and footwork.
Footwork, speed, quickness, and vertical leap all contribute to the athleticism of a basketball player. If you're an aspiring baller at any level, I'd recommend that you check out my other article where I talk about the program that I prescribe to all of my players. Follow this link to learn [http://www.squidoo.com/how-to-be-quicker-in-basketball]how to be quicker in basketball
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?How-to-Be-Quicker-in-Basketball---Suicides&id=6687121] How to Be Quicker in Basketball - Suicides

Syracuse Orange Basketball - Position By Position Preview: Center

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Michael_N_McAllister]Michael N McAllister
Last year, the lack of production from the center position was masked by Rick Jackson spending so much time there. The bottom line is, Fab Melo was a big disappointment, and while Baye Mousa Keita showed promise, he was very limited offensively and struggled in conference play with his slim frame. This season, the Orange don't have Jackson to be a safety valve if the other two falter.
Fab Melo
Yes they were only exhibition games, and yes they were against vastly inferior competition. But there are things you can take away from those performances. Fab Melo looks like a completely different player than the one who could barely get up and down the court last year. He looks different than the player that seemed to commit three fouls in the first five minutes of every game, on his way to a stat line of 8 minutes, 2 points, 1 rebound, 4 fouls (or something similar to that). Coach Boeheim stated numerous times that Melo just wasn't in the proper condition to get up and down the court. However, Fab has come into this year thirty pounds lighter, and with renewed confidence. He just looks the part now. Up and down the court he goes without so much as an extra breath. He rotates in the zone, stands his ground, is physical without committing fouls, and dare I say it, is actually getting in decent rebounding position. His mid-range jumper is something Orange fans haven't seen from the center position since the days Elvir Ovcina. If he can be a consistent threat offensively, rebound well, stay out of foul trouble, and be a force inside in the zone, it takes this team to a completely different level. Yes he'll have games where he struggles. Everyone does. But I just love the look he has in his eye this year. It's one of determination, confidence, and knowledge of the system. Completely different from last year. Based on what I've seen so far, I expect a HUGE leap forward. That's not to say he's going to be an All-American or Big East 1st team. But an above average player who makes plays. He needs to be able to play 25 minutes or so per game. That will allow Keita and Christmas to split the other 15 minutes. If Fab doesn't play well or reverts back to being an enigma like last season, Syracuse can still be a good team. However, if he can be what we've seen in the exhibition games, Syracuse can be a championship team.
Baye Mousa Keita
We all know the book on Keita. He's tall, long, and athletic. He's good on the glass, and has a knack for block shots. Offensively he's limited. There were a few signs of improvement, like when he hit a baby hook in the first preseason game. That certainly raised some eyebrows. But given that he's the backup center, and likely won't be counted on to play 25-30 minutes most nights, the Orange don't need a ton of offensive production from him. They need him to come in, play well in the zone, hustle, block shots, and control the defensive boards. That would be huge for a team that has a plethora of offensive talent. Hopefully, he'll be better equipped to take the pounding the Big East season undoubtedly will bring, as he appeared to wear down some towards the end of last year. His slender frame is cause for some concern, but as long as he isn't needed for 30+ minutes per game, he should be fine for his role. And does it appear he's done a little bulking up, although not an enormous amount. He's just a slim guy, and that's OK as long as he's prepared for the beating.
Rakeem Christmas
When Boeheim decides to go small, Christmas will likely see some time in the middle. We saw that in the last preseason game against St. Rose. That lineup features him at center, with Joseph and Fair at the forward spots. That lineup is quicker and more athletic. It's a great asset to have when facing some smaller teams that the Orange normally face during the season. In this role, Christmas will be counted on to play a similar role as described with Keita above. Play defense, block shots, create turnovers, and control the glass. Allow the quicker, more athletic Orange to get out on the break and create easy transition opportunities. That's the name of the game here. Christmas' abilities suggest he could fill that role very nicely.
The Orange have depth at center, but it is very young and raw. Fab and Keita are your most experienced players there, and that can be scary. But the talent and potential is there. The leap from freshman year to sophomore year for big men can be gigantic in terms of development. It will need to be if they are to live up to the preseason hype.
By Michael McAllister from Nation of Orange
For the best Syracuse Orange basketball news, analysis, and recruit information, visit http://www.nationoforange.com
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Syracuse-Orange-Basketball---Position-By-Position-Preview:-Center&id=6686377] Syracuse Orange Basketball - Position By Position Preview: Center