Archive for March 16th, 2011

WATERCOOLER CHAT: PLAY IN GAMES, BULLS ON MISSION

BASKETBALL

In college basketball, yesterday marked the official tip-off of March Madness. Sure, it wasn’t a part of the field of 64, but to the teams playing, this was a big deal. First up, #16 seed North Carolina-Asheville took on #16 Arkansas-Little Rock. This game was a back and forth battle that even needed overtime to settle things. But behind a big-night and incredible overtime play from Matt Dickey and J.P. Primm, NC-Asheville took the win and earned the right to play #1 seed Pitt on Thursday. Perhaps they will be the first #16 to ever knock off a #1. North Carolina-Asheville 81, Arkansas Little Rock 77.

Next up, a play-in game for a #12 spot between UAB (Univ. of Alabama-Birmingham) and Clemson. There was a lot of controversy as to why UAB even got a shot to play in this game. Many thought Colorado should have earned a spot. But, it is what it is, and UAB would get a chance to prove themselves. Except… they stunk. Clemson was in charge from start to finish and got a solid 22-point night from Jeral Grant. With the win, Clemson has earned the right to play #5 West Virginia in the second round. These 4 play-in games are most likely a preview of what’s to come, the potential to add probably 25 more teams to the tournament (that would play before the 64-team tournament we’re accustomed to). That would be too bad and would seriously devalue the quality of what March Madness is. Clemson 70, UAB 52.

In the NBA, the surging Chicago Bulls are now on a mission. Two months ago, they were considered a very good team. Now… they could possibly be the #1 seed in the East. Last night, they were without both Carlos Boozer and Joakim Noah, but they had a clear agenda: Win. That wouldn’t be too difficult against a hapless Wizards team they have swept thus far this season and is remarkably horrible on the road. Derrick Rose went to town again, scoring 23 points, and netting 4 rebounds and 7 assists. With the win, they are officially in the top spot and could play in the Eastern Conference Finals, which will most likely be against Boston or Miami. The playoffs are going to be very exciting. Chicago 98, Washington 79.

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