Chapter 33 – A Team with a Broom – MV 59 – Toledo Christian 46 at the Varsity Gym February 3, 2012 - Game Story

Setting the Table


Toledo Christian is an established Division IV program. The Eagles have not had a losing season since 2004. They have a record of several TAAC and OHSAA Sectional Championships (including last year) and a District title to their credit. They pulled out of an early 2-4 start and reeled off six wins in a row to bring their fans back from the brink of apathy to the frenzied excitement Hawk fans have come to expect.

They feature a pressure-packed style of play, depending on their defense to generate offense. There’s also the physical style of play.  If you didn’t know any better you would swear they came from the Toledo City League and not the TAAC.  Even in this year which could easily be characterized as rebuilding, after losing five starters to graduation, the Eagles are ready to play every night.

The above description can be distilled into the words cautious respect. Even though the Hawks had beaten the Eagles on their home court in round 1, no one was expecting a walkover.

And when the chance presents itself to sweep a season series against a team like Toledo Christian, it’s not something a team should let slip away.

Game Summary

Maumee Valley solidified its hold on the first place spot in the TAAC Friday night with a 13 point win over the third place Toledo Christian Eagles, 59-46 at the sold-out Varsity Gym. Similar to the Tuesday night game against Gibsonburg, TC got the first basket of the game for an early 2-0 lead, which would prove to be their only advantage all evening. MV used the outside game to their advantage, with Julius Turner and Rick Deichert firing threes early and often.

TC was also on defensive pins and needles in the first half as their primary inside presence, Ben Ivan, was on the bench with two fouls. So while Jared Sturt did not have to carry the scoring load, he dominated the interior on both ends with (by your Hawkblog's crack stats department) 7 blocks on the night and double digit rebound totals.

TC was forced into a press for virtually the entire second half, and to their credit hung in the game. But at best, they were only able to pull the Hawks half time lead down by two points. The Hawks did a better job locking down the free throws tonight, hitting 14 out of 20 for a 70% clip on the evening.

First Quarter MV 16 – TC 10

Starting five – Dave Brown (’13), Rick Deichert (’12), Jared Sturt (’12), Jonathan Krueger (’12) and Julius Turner (’12)

TC won the tip on the way up, but couldn’t generate any offense. Nor did MV on its first possession. Dominique Pittman scored the first basket of the game for the Eagles, for their one and only lead of the contest.

Dave Brown scored first for the home team, following up a missed shot. The Eagles missed their next attempt, and a wide-open Jon Krueger fired a three in from the top of the arc. Julius Turner pulled down a defensive rebound and pulled up for a three pointer – 8-2 Hawks.

Ben Ivan struck back for TC with two points, but the Eagle post man committed his first foul at the other end. Jared Sturt scored for the Blue and White off this inbounds play…





…to put MV back up by six. Then in an early pivotal play, Ivan drew his second foul at the 4:15 mark. Without their best underneath presence, Jared was able to affect shots and pull rebounds. On their next possession, MV got two offensive rebounds then Rick nailed a three down from the right side.

Coach McWhinnie, needing to slow the Hawks’ momentum, asked for a 30 second timeout with 3:08 to go. Both teams missed on their next possessions then Eric Cellier scored his first points of the half. Julius fired right back with a trey and a ten point HawkSquad lead, 16-6.

The Eagles staged one of their familiar runs in the final minute of play, scoring first on a Josh Winzeler two pointer, then a off balance, bank-shot three pointer by Winzeler with time expiring. TC again showed the good fortune which had followed them in the Varsity Gym over the years.

Second Quarter MV 15 – TC 6

Starting the Quarter – Initial game starters

TC started the quarter with the ball and Rick Deichert picked up his first foul of the game on the floor. Play was unproductive for the two teams for the first 1:07 of the frame and the visitors were treated to a series of MV man/zone switchovers on successive possessions.

But the Hawks kept finding openings in the traditional Eagle 1-3-1 zone, Julius hitting from the top of the key for a three pointer…

I've got a few more trick shots to show you later, pilgrim.

…then after another TC misfire, Rick hit a three and it was 22-10 HawkSquad. Winzeler scored on a nice drive to the basket, but again Julius drained a triple, this time a fade-away shot from up top.

Toledo Christian, now down 13, decided to start pressing and achieved some momentary success with four straight points. Rick stopped the Eagle charge with a strong dribble drive across the lane for two points. TC missed their next try and Julius pulled down a rebound and dribbled coast to coast…



…drawing the foul and making both ends. TC had the ball late into the quarter but missed and Davey ‘Jones’ Brown got out on a late break and sunk the Eagles comeback hopes with this basket...



It was a dominating quarter for Maumee Valley which went to the break up 15, 31-16.

Third Quarter MV 11 – TC 11

Starting the Quarter – Initial game starters

MV had the tip but missed their first try. The visitors started out running a deliberate offense and worked it inside only to be frustrated by a big Jared Sturt block. They would miss again and Dave Brown drove in for two from the right side. Another two misses by each team, then Rick was fouled shooting and made the pair. TC missed yet again and Jared cleaned up a miss for two points. Jon Kruger snuck in and stole the Eagles inbounds pass and scored two off a Rick Deichert screen. The Hawks had run off eight straight to begin the half.

Josh Winzeler stopped the streak with a two pointer and tried the press again, but Jon finished off the press break at the other end. It was 41-18 and Maumee Valley had their biggest lead of the evening at 23.

The Blue and Gold visitors were still relentless on the press and fought back again. A free throw and eight straight points by Eric Cellier cut the MV into the lead. Dave Brown was fouled late in the stanza and made one of two free throws to end the scoring in the third. The energy-draining constant pressure only brought the Eagles back to where they started – down 15 at the end of three 42-27.

Fourth Quarter TC 19 – MV 17

Starting the Quarter – Initial game starters

MV had the ball to begin the quarter and Julius drove in powerfully for two points. At the other end, TC continued to have problems running their inside game as Jared effected many shots even without blocking them.

The game pace sped up with TC gambling more on the press with three men in the front court. Jared scored on two free throws, then Eric Cellier hit a three and TC took a time out at 6:35 to re-set their defense.

But with Dave Brown at the helm and any of five seniors ready to receive the ball, pressing is not the most effective way to stop the Hawks this year. Dave was fouled by Dominique Pittman, but missed the front end of a 1 and 1. After a TC miss, Maumee Valley executed the press break to perfection…



…getting the ball down the floor for a Jonathan Krueger layup with only one dribble.

The teams exchanged baskets and a free throw, but near the 5:00 mark, Cellier mildly rolled his ankle coming down from a jump shot. He kept on playing, but the visitors needed him at 100% and then some if they were going to erase a 15 point deficit in that amount of time.

After a few misses on each end, MV got out on a break and Dave threw an alley oop pass to Jared for a near dunk. Rick was later fouled by Cellier and made both ends to put MV back up by 17, 53-36.

MV dropped back into a zone to rest up some as time wound down. The rest was pretty much cleanup from there. TC continued to press the action, and MV enjoyed this final highlight video…




…of Rick dishing to Jared on another break. The game ended with Maumee Valley clinching the 13 point victory.

Final Game Thoughts

The game was great from a Hawks standpoint, but not necessarily a masterpiece (although an argument could be made for MV's second quarter). So as a final public service, your HawkBlogger provides the following Rembrandt from 1669, appropriately entitled 'A Girl with a Broom':

In fact young lady, MV did sweep the Eagles.

Maumee Valley handed Toledo Christian its worst loss in almost exactly two years, as you’d have to go back to a February 5, 2010 19 point loss at Ottawa Hills for a bigger opponent’s margin of victory than the one seen last evening (thanks again to the invaluable Davey 1 website for their treasure-store of historical results). That will give the TC brain trust both something to play for and think about down the stretch drive and during the February 12 playoff seeding meetings.

Last year, in a strategic masterstroke Coach McWhinnie scheduled his third place Eagles against #1 Maumee Valley in the playoffs. Normally, the three seed would select a game against #2. But TC liked their chances better against MV than two seed Ottawa Hills.

The result was a double overtime win for TC at Rossford over the top seeded Hawks. They then proceeded to roll through the District, losing in Bowling Green in a regional semifinal against ultimate Northwest Region champion Continental.

This year, McWhinnie’s team will again likely receive the third seed in the section (possibly fourth, depending how outlander Fremont Central Catholic is regarded within the section). His target in the sectional playoffs will now be dependent on TC’s upcoming performance against the Gibsonburg Golden Bears.

TC vs. Gibsonburg is a huge game, set for Tuesday February 7, 2012 (the night MV plays at Ottawa Hills). Frankly, TC has a great chance to beat the Bears as the blueprint for victory – hard pressing – was laid out by Maumee Valley this past week. 

And oh yeah, TC can, does and will without a doubt press.

Finally, a win by the Eagles would put Maumee Valley in sole possession of the TAAC lead with five games left to play (OH, Emmanuel, Danbury, Northwood and Stritch).

So hard work paid off for Maumee Valley as they scored two huge double-digit victories in their most important week of the regular season. Now the third of the TAAC big boys looms ahead as MV will face traditional power Ottawa Hills this coming week.

Potpourri

Almuni Daniel Brandon, Omar Hazimah and Carter Bayer were in the house for the game…it was the Hawks third sellout of the year…TC tried to get a little creative with their videography early on, but the situation was resolved before the game started…once again, all the local TV stations were in the house, and BCSN broadcast a live postgame feed from the Varsity Gym…this was Maumee Valley’s first win against the Eagles on their home floor in at least eight years…a nice Toledo Blade article on the game got every last name correct!

Scoring

And now for the happy totals. Julius Turner led the scoring for MV with 16 points, followed by fellow long bomber Rick with 12. and Jared Sturt with 11. Jon Krueger continues to come up strong in the big games, canning 10 points for the second game in a row. Dave Brown had 8 on the night and Dixon Stoddard scored 2.

Eric Cellier scored 20 points, 18 in the second half (evidence of virus-ridden defender Rick Deichert running out of gas) right on his season average. The steadily improving Josh Winzeler scored 15 in a losing effort.

Next up

Guys, don those tuxes!! Ladies, polish up those diamond tiaras!!! Everyone, rent those limousines!!!!
It’s time to travel up to that gated community better known as the Village of Ottawa Hills for the rematch with the Green Bears. See you Tuesday.

Chapter 32 – Thatswhatimtalkinabout!!! – MV 75 (at) Gibsonburg 53 - January 31, 2012 - Game Story

Setting the Table

The following is the Hawkblog's current nomination for quote of the year:

‘I have to say that tonight was probably the most fun I've ever had playing a basketball game. And I've played a lot of basketball.’

          - Davey ‘Jones’ Brown 1.31.12 on Facebook

Game Summary

The Hawks set out to show the TAAC who the boss was tonight and did so emphatically during crunch time, handing the Gibsonburg Golden Bears their worst loss of the season, 75-53 on the Bears home court.

This game was tied 37-37 with 3:31 to go in the third. But Coach Jim Robinson put the press on and Julius Turner selected that moment to catch on fire - and the Hawks finished the game on a 38-16 run. Julius dominated the game in the last 11:30, scoring 15 of his 18 points and contributing numerous key steals and rebounds down the stretch.

In the first half, it was Rick Deichert and Jon Krueger staking MV to a six point half time lead via the long ball. In the second half it was Julius and Dixon Stoddard who stepped it up and gave the Hawks the physical presence they needed to counter Gibsonburg's tough-nosed play. Jared Sturt was a steady force throughout the entire game.

First Quarter - MV 17 - Gibsonburg 11

Starting five – Dave Brown (’13), Rick Deichert (’12), Jared Sturt (’12), Jonathan Krueger (’12) and Julius Turner (’12)

Maumee Valley won the tip and Gibsonburg opened in a man defense. They would switch from among man, 2-3 zone and 1-3-1 all evening.  MV, as always, started in man defense.

Both teams started nervously, and it took five empty poesssions before Gage Beaber posted up for two points inside to give the Golden Bears their only lead of the evening, two-nil. It took all of five seconds for Rick to fire back with his first three pointer for the lead.  Gibsonburg went one and done and Jared got great position inside to catch an offensive rebound and score an 'and-one' (missing the free throw). After misfires by both teams, Jon Krueger was left wide open on the right wing and nailed a three for an 8-2 MV lead.

Gibsonburg would show its offensive hand, spreading the floor and driving Gage Beaber to the basket against Dave Brown early and often. On their next possession, Beaber was fouled by Julius and split the pair. A few more misses and Dylan Dorfmeyer hit a two pointer, pulling the Bears to within three. But speaking of three, Rick Deichert fired right back with a big answering three ball from deep in the left hand corner to put the Hawks up 11-5 at the 3:07 mark. Coach Brent Liskai didn’t like what he was seeing and called timeout.

The Bears hit two more then began phase 1-A of their game plan. Beaber began to look for kick-outs off his drives. He found Dorfmeyer for a wide open three pointer and the lead was cut to one.

But again, MV had an answer. Jon Kruger hit another three pointer, but was T’eed up by the referees for the now verboten ‘Shush’ motion toward the opposing team.

Hey, if POTUS can do it, why not Jon Krueger???

Nate Yarborogh made one of two technical free throws, but could not convert on the ensuing possession. MV cashed in when Jared did the Mr. Clean thing again

Out of my way, I'm cleanin' the glass tonight.

…mopping up on this offensive putback plus the foul



…making the free throw for the final points of the quarter. The Blue and White went to the bench up 17-11. Three Hawks accounted for 100% of the scoring output, Rick and Jon with six each and Jared with five.

Second Quarter MV 15 - Gibsonburg 15

Starting the Quarter – Dave, Rick, Jared, Jon, Dixon

Gibsonburg started with the ball, but Dixon rebounded their only chance. Jon Kruger continued his hot hand scoring two points, then Dixon showed the Bears his disruptive side...

Not even Allstate could help the Golden Bears tonight...

…knocking the ball loose, and drawing the foul from Matt Tille. Dixon tried to punch his own ticket with a three point try (that's it, keep the defense honest) but missed, then Beaber scored again for the home team. Dixon scored two on a layup off a nice low post feed by Jared. It was 21-13 Maumee Valley. Gibsonburg lost possession on an over and back call and MV scored again. The Bears took their second time out with 6:31 to go in the quarter.

MV missed two straight chances, and after Rick Deichert leaped high to block a Dorfmeyer three point try from deep in the corner, Gage Beaber collected the loose ball and drove in for two points. Jon got the visitors back up by ten with a 12 footer from his favorite right hand base line spot.

Now late in the second quarter, Nate Yarborogh began a one man mission to get his team back in the game, hitting a two. After a miss and tieup, Rick Deichert hit this three pointer, his third in the half…



…the HawkSquad was trying to pull away, up 28-17 with under three minutes to play.

Gibsonburg missed again, and MV ran the clock down to 2:16, calling timeout, but losing the ball. Yarborogh hit a three ball, then Jared hit this two pointer from the free throw line...



Yarborogh was unimpressed and hit another three. Jared struck back, getting the ball in the block and muscling in for a score +1, which he missed. MV got the ball back, but couldn’t capitalize, then Yarborogh hit his third three – 11 points in under 3:30 to single-handedly keep his team in the game. 



It was quite a performance, but unfortunately for the Bears, a mere foreshadowing of what was to happen to them about eight minutes later.

The Golden Bears had clawed back to make the quarter even and Maumee Valley went to the dressing room up by six – coincidentally the same half time lead as the first game.

Third Quarter MV 25 - GB 14

Starting the Quarter – Initial game starters

Gibsonburg had the ball first but missed. Julius, back in the game after sitting out with two fouls, drove to the hoop and was fouled shooting. He went 1-2 for his first points of the contest. On the Bears’ next possession, Dylan Dorfmeyer was blocked not once, but twice on consecutive shots by Rick and Jared respectively. But one MV turnover later, Nate Yarborogh knocked yet another three pointer down. Julius countered with this long two pointer...



…but now the threes started to fall for the home team, this time by Dorfmeyer. Gibsonburg was clawing back into the game. MV missed their try, and Rick Deichert fouled Logan Jones, who split the pair to pull within two points.

Julius fed Jared for two points and the Hawks went zone. The Bears solved that when Beaber got to the hoop for a score and one, which he missed. Another Maumee Valley misfire and Gibsonburg was off on a fast break, which Logan Jones finished. It was 37-37 and the Orange-faced student section was going wild.

Maumee Valley called time out and pulled out two weapons.   First off, it was the return of John Wayne.

Did I hear someone call for the Cavalry?

As if on cue, Julius’ game went to another level. He hit a three ball...



...and Coach Robinson pulled his second weapon out - MV went to the press for the first time in the game.

Unfortunately, the Home Team did begin to fragmentize...

Dave Brown picked the Gibsonburg point guard clean and scored a basket. Coach Liskai quickly called time, sensing the wheels could be coming off. He would be correct, but unable to do anything about it. His Bears missed a shot and Rick scored this basket off the break…



…a Gibsonburg guard saw Dave coming at him again and took one too many steps. Julius got in his Acura and drove down main street…




…the press continued and a 20 second melee of turnovers on the court gave Gibsonburg a few more chances – none of which fell – then Julius put the hammer down again with this three pointer…




Just like that MV was up 49-37 and the Bears had to spend another time out.

MV went back to the zone press, and a Julius rebound led to this Dixon Stoddard ‘and one’ basket’…



The Senior Forward made his free throw, completing a 15-0 Maumee Valley run. Dylan Dorfmeyer finally stopped the streak with a three pointer. But Julius said ‘I can match that’, draining another three of his own. As the third quarter would down, Rick made a layup with 15 seconds to go and Maumee Valley had dominated the floor in the third, going up 57-40 with eight minutes left.




Did anyone see the license number on that truck?

Fourth Quarter - MV 18 - Gibsonburg 13

Starting the Quarter – Initial game starters

MV had the ball in and didn't score but Julius stole the ball back, drawing a floor foul from Beaber (his third). MV began to play ball control with four players on the perimeter, leaving Dave Brown, of all people, wide open at the block for a basket +1 (which he made). It was now 60-40 MV and the press continued. Julius made a huge shot block (that made Channel 13 News).

Dave Brown came out of the game with some stomach cramps, which gave Rick Deichert the chance to run the point down the stretch.

And at this point, things truly began to unravel for the Bears. Beaber drew his fourth foul, then after Dylan Dorfmeyer caught an inadvertant elbow from Dixon Stoddard, the Golden Bear guard became a little too animated and was ejected from the game. Rick split the technical foul pair, then in the highlight play of the game, Julius drove in and passed the ball behind his back to Jared who dunked...



...and the blue-garbed crowd went wild. 

Beaber, to his credit, didn’t give up and hit a three, but the handwriting was on the wall.

Julius was fouled and made the pair. Freshman Jordan Kreglow was fouled at the other end and missed both.

Gibsonburg began to apply pressure of their own, but Jared Sturt was left wide open for two. Dixon was fouled on the next possession and made the pair.

Now all that was left was the playout of the final 1:30. Final baskets by Julius and Jared sealed the win for the visitors.

Start up the bus gentlemen, it’s going to be a fun ride home.

Final Game Thoughts

Apparently the week of practice was quite intense for the Blue and White, judging from some post game comments by the players. But it sure paid off. MV took command of the game in the third and blew the TAAC leaders off the court. Gibsonburg had no answer for the MV pressure, and Julius Turner stepped up big time in the third.

In the pregame commentary, your Hawkblogger noted that four Golden Bears averaged double digits – on this night, it would be four Hawks who would achieve that mark – Jared, Julius, Rick and Jonathan.

The statistic which did bear (no pun intended) itself out was the Maumee Valley margin of victory – 22 points – matching exactly the Hawks' MOV on the year. However, this 22 point win was earned on the home court of the team voted to first place in the Ohio D-IV basketball poll by the Toledo Blade’s Steve Junga just yesterday. No problem though, Mr. Junga will have the opportunity to revise his ballot in next week’s poll – he was at the game and wrote a great story about the Hawks win.

Potpourri

There were cameras galore in the building tonight, at just the right time - everyone showed up for the third and fourth quarter...the game was a little chippy, and here's to the Hawks for playing hard but fair...AAU basketball pays off, Exhibit 1 - the Hawks are very comfortable with physical play...AAU basketball pays off, Exhibit 2 - Dave Brown left the game mid-fourth quarter and Rick assumed his summer AAU role as point guard for about 2:00, during which the Hawks did not commit a turnover...there were scouts visiting from (at least) Danbury and Tiffin Calvert, which either Gibsonburg or MV could face down the road in the playoffs...an assistant coach from Bluffton College was in the house last night....

Scoring

And now for the happy totals. Scoring for the Hawks tonight was Jared with 19, Julius with 18, Rick with 14, Jonathan 10. Yes, there were four Hawks in double figures, and it might have been five, as Dixon Stoddard continued his steady improvement with 9 on the evening. Dave Brown scored 5 while otherwise directing the Orchestra this evening.

Next up

It's back home Friday for the Hawks to again perform in the three-games-in-seven-nights TAAC meat grinder.  MV will welcome the Toledo Christian Eagles, featuring TAAC leading scorer Eric Cellier, come to the Varsity Gym.

Warning - with two losses, TC can tie for the TAAC lead with wins over MVCDS and Gibsonburg.  They are not to be taken lightly.

Chapter 26 – It’s Rainin’ Threes – MV 50 – (at) Liberty Center 20 – 12.19.12 - Game Story

Setting the Table

Some games are difficult to gauge – some are not. Although a Division III team, Liberty Center had struggled to an 0-5 record going into the game with the Hawks. Further, upon review of the home team’ roster, they did not feature a player over 6’1” tall.

This appeared to be a case of a school placing all their eggs in one basket – the football basket that is. Liberty Center is a small school football power, making the playoffs more often than not, slugging it out with their football arch-rival Patrick Henry. The down side of the strong football program is that it sometimes drives better athletes out of other programs.

With a relatively small lineup, the Tigers had no choice but to pack things into a tight 2-3 zone and look for an poor shooting night by the visiting Hawks. Unfortunately for the hosts, the exact opposite happened and Maumee Valley enjoyed one of its best nights ever from long range.

Game Summary

The Hawks made the most of their first visit to Liberty Center and smacked down the Tigers by 30. MV led 11-2 at the end of the first, 24-7 at the half and, well you get the picture. Liberty Center did not break double digits in any quarter, and in fact did not score their first points until the 4:00 mark of the first.

MV rained three’s down on the home team, shooting a sizzling 9 for 16 from beyond the arc. Five of MV’s final six scores were three point shots.

First Quarter MV 11 – LC 2

Starting five – Dave Brown (’13), Rick Deichert (’12), Jared Sturt (’12), Jonathan Krueger (’12) and Julius Turner (’12)

With no one on the floor over 6’1” for Liberty Center, it looked to be a long night for the Tigers. Julius made the most of this, scoring a layup from the left side off the tip. MV went straight to a press and LC couldn’t get the ball in before the five second call. The Hawks missed their first opportunity but Dave Brown stole the ball from the LC point guard. Jared got into the flow of things on the next possession with an authoritative dunk.

Seriously, it was just like this, except there was no Kendrick Perkins or 17,000 screaming fans.

It was 6-0 Hawks. Liberty Center coach Eric Prigge, sensing trouble, called time out. The Tigers slowed their offense down, but misfired again and Rick Deichert knocked a three ball down – the first of many for the Hawks.

With 4:01 left in the quarter, Liberty Center broke a one and one half quarter scoring drought (they had been shut out in the fourth quarter of their previous game against the Edon Bombers) with a two pointer to get on the board.

Julius rounded out the Blue and White’s scoring in the quarter with this basket off a fast break.



And the Hawks were up nine at the end of one.

Second Quarter MV 13 – LC 5

Starting the quarter – Nick Frasco, Dave, Dixon Stoddard, Jared, Julius

Liberty Center had the ball in but Dixon Stoddard blocked a shot. At the other end, MV scored two on a Jared Sturt steal and spin-in layup. The Tigers called another time out after this inauspicious start, and Jon Krueger came in for Jared.

With this smaller lineup, MV put the press back on and LC was whistled for a 10 second violation. Julius capitalized with this three pointer…



…but then picked up his second foul. Jared returned to the game in time to watch the Bengals make two free throws. He then went to work on the offensive end, scoring two points after an offensive rebound. LC had another one-and-done possession and Jon Kruger was fouled shooting. He went 1 for 2. Jared blocked two Liberty Center shots in their next poesssion then Rick was up next with this long three pointer…



… and it was 19-4 MV with under two minutes to play in the half. Kody Snyder provided some offense for the Tigers with an answering three then Jared finished off the scoring for the half with this tip-in off a Dave Brown three point attempt.



At the half, it was MV 24 – Liberty Center 7, perhaps the first time in the four Jim Robinson years at Maumee Valley an opponent had been held to single digits in a half.

Third Quarter MV 18 – Liberty Center 7

Starting the quarter – Original starting five

Julius opened the quarter with a three, then a two pointer in the first minute of play. The Hawks’ continued pressure forced a Tigers’ time out, who did convert on a basket. Jared then scored this two pointer…



…then after another LC two, Rick hit this three off a Jared kick-out…



...and it was 34-11 MV. Play continued with great Blue and White defense; even after backing off the press into half court defense the hosts normally managed only one shot per possession. Dixon scored next on a fast break…



…then Jon Krueger knocked down this trey…



…it was 39-11 Hawks and Coach Prigge was forced to call yet another time out. At this point, the Hawks were represented by Nick Frasco, Caleb Wilhight, Jon Krueger, Thad Woodard and Dixon Stoddard.

Caleb kept the long range destruction going with another three-ball. Liberty Center’s highlight play of the evening came on a nice inbounds play to a wide open Tiger for two. That was it for the third quarter, the Hawks led 42-14.

Fourth Quarter MV 8 – LC 6

Starting the Quarter – Nick, Caleb, Jon, Thad Woodard, Dixon

Surprise, surprise, Jon Krueger started off the quarter with this three pointer…



…directly leading to Liberty Center’s fourth time out of the game. The quarter moved along briskly and the last Hawkblog highlight is this three pointer from Marcus Knabbs…



That was Marcus' first varsity points! Congratulations.

For those of you keeping score at home, 5 of 6 Maumee Valley scores in that stretch were three pointers. Marcus closed out the scoring for MV with a two pointer.

Final Game Thoughts

Coach Robinson’s is perfecting the inside/outside game, ready to take on both zone and man offenses. It helps to have a big man or two to control the inside, and two shooters, each preferring a different side of the three point circle (Julius left and Rick right) and a floor general dishing to the right person all the time. Opposing coaches are being forced to choose stopping either the inside or outside game. Liberty Center focused on inside-the-paint defense tonight and the Hawks took advantage.

Extras

Making the trip down Route 24 this evening were alumni Carter Bayer, Karla Luketic (and dad Karl, who thought he was going to see the MV girls for a while), Adam Sturt and Tyler Boehm…Liberty Center is a big football school, and it was odd to see several athletic Liberty Center students in the cheering section clearly taller and bigger than the basketball team…LC has a great gym, a large Butler-style building turned sideways to accommodate a full 94’ court and a big home cheering section…the JVs lost a strange contest 18-15; your Hawkblogger thought he detected Saran Wrap on the baskets…

Scoring

And now for the happy totals. Julius Turner led the way for the Hawks with 12 tonight. Rick Deichert and Jon Krueger each had 9, Jared Sturt 8, Marcus Knabbs 5, Caleb Willhight 3, Dixon Stoddard and Dave Brown 2.

Next up

Old guys rule at the Alumni Holiday Hoops game – then a non league contest Friday December 30 against North Baltimore.

Chapter 19 – Senior Night – Hawks 62 – North Central 36 at the Varsity Gym – 2.26.11 - Game Story

Setting the Table

Tonight was about honoring two of the hardest working basketball players you’d ever want on your team – Daniel Brandon and Omar Hazimah.

Here are your Senior Night Introductions



There would be no ruination of the Senior sendoff this evening at the Varsity Gym, as the Hawks came to play.

Game Summary

Maumee Valley Seniors Daniel Brandon and Omar Hazimah finished their regular season careers on a positive note, their Hawks defeating the North Central Eagles 62-36 at the Varsity Gym.

MV enjoyed hot shooting during the evening, jumping out to a 34-13 half time lead. The Hawks shot a blistering 14-17 from the floor in the first half, including 5-6 from three point range. Aside from a 10-2 NC run in the third quarter, the hosts were in control the entire evening.

First Quarter MV 21 – NC 7

Starting five – Dave Brown (’13), Rick Deichert (’12), Jared Sturt (’12), Dixon Stoddard (’12) and Julius Turner (’12)

North Central starting five – Brandon Manley (Sr), Ryan Masters (Jr), Josh Kinsman (Jr), Bryce Ely (Jr) and Jalen Dancer (Jr)

North Central worked from a 2-3 zone. MV played about 90% man defense, pressing sporadically throughout the evening.

MV got the opening tip and began the game with the Rick to Jared lob for two. Jared blocked an Eagle shot and Julius fired a three in from the left wing. NB missed twice from close range, wary of Jared’s defensive presence and the Hawk post player scored on a shot from the foul line to make it 7-0.

NC’s first basket of the evening came on a Jalen Dancer two pointer, but the Hawks came back down the floor and Julius again hit a three pointer from the wing again. Facing a 10-2 deficit at the 5:18 mark, coach Justin Houk called time out to steady his woozy Eagles. However, they came back out shaky and Sturt intercepted a pass leading to a break. Jared cleaned up a missed shot while trailing the play.

The Eagles stabilized and got three points from Jalen Dancer, but again the Hawks came back; this time it was Rick from the right baseline with a y squared = 4px trajectory basket. (He’s in Honors Precalc, let him explain it to you). After another NC miss, Rick hit a three pointer from the left wing.

Jared’s defensive presence underneath caused an Eagle to travel in the block then Rick hit a two-ball from the from the foul line.

Dave Brown got in the mix, stealing an inbounds pass and feeding Nick Frasco for two more.

With 52.4 seconds remaining North Central called another time out to get their bearings, trailing 21-5. The resultant play was successful in that Jared fouled Trent Pilmore, who made both free throws.

MV could not do anything with the last possession and the quarter ended with the Hawks leading by 14.

Second Quarter – MV 13 – NC 6

Starting the quarter – Nick, Dave, Jared, Dixon and Julius

The Eagles had the ball to start the quarter, but threw the ball away. Dixon capitalized with a pass into Julius for two points. After a North Central miss Dave Brown angled a shot in from deep in the left side. The visitors continued to misfire and were called for traveling. Julius continued to pressure the visitors’ zone defense, slashing through to the hoop for a shooting foul – and made one of two.

Rick returned to the game with 5:56 left in the quarter and with a rest, led the MV press to a hurried Eagle three point miss. On the other end, Rick drove right down the middle until the help defense arrived – then dropped it off at the last second to Jon Krueger for an easy layup.

From the bench, Jim Robinson, Jr. was cheering mightily for the Blue and White defense, which was stifling North Central’s offensive flow. The guests finally caught a break when Dave Brown fouled Jalen Dancer. Dancer made one of two. Both sides traded fruitless possessions until the 3:08 mark when Dave Brown fired in this three pointer…


…it was 31-8 Hawks with 4:46 left in the half.

Again, North Central could only manage offense from the free throw line when Ryan Masters was fouled by Dixon and made two shots.

Rick turned the ball over, but Jared made sure there’d be no scoring on that possession, blocking two Eagle shots. Rick quickly redeemed himself with a three pointer from deep in the left corner, stretching the lead to 34-10. It was 3-3 for Rick from beyond the arc.

Ryan Masters scored the only Eagle hoop of the quarter from the field when he hit a three pointer with 1:01 to go in the half. That would be the final score of the half and the Hawks had extended the advantage to 21 points, 34-13.

It was perhaps the most dominating half of the year for MV. They went 14-17 from the field, including a 5-6 mark from three point-land. Conversely they put the clamps on their opponents, holding North Central to 20% from the field (3-15). The Eagles would have been in single digits had it not been for a strong 5-6 effort from the charity stripe.

Third Quarter NC 12 – MV 11

Starting the quarter – initial game starters

The hosts began the quarter with a few hiccups – Dave Brown turned the ball over then fouled Garret Wagoner on a shot attempt, and he made both ends. Wagoner produced on the other end as well, blocking a shot by Jared and Jalen Dancer made a three pointer for the visitors.

Following an MV turnover, North Central missed a two point attempt, which led to this Rick-Julius-Jared fast break…




The Hawks scoring machine shifted into neutral, as a number of shots went astray during this stretch. Meanwhile, the Eagles got points from Jalen Dancer and Garret Wagoner to complete a 8-2 run.

Coach Robinson called time out at 4:08 and did his best Mufasa imitation:



NC scored one more basket, then the Simbas Hawks re-took their place in the Circle of Life. First Rick scored two points, but Ryan Masters came back for NC.

Jared went strong to the hoop next and cashed in on one of two free throws.



MV’s press forced this Eagle turnover…



...and basket for Rick. Jared expropriated the next NC pass and…




…made both free throw attempts, and exited the game for Julius.

Again MV pressure forced NC to call time out...




…at 1:48 to rebalance against the Hawks lineup. It didn’t work. They missed a shot then MV held the ball for the last 1:33(!) and Dixon got in position for a basket




 ...and was fouled. He made both ends with 0:03 on the clock. The Hawks completed a 9-2 run of their own at quarter’s end to lead by 20 at the three-quarter pole, 45-25.

Fourth Quarter MV 17 – NC 11

Starting the quarter – Nick, Rick, Jared, Dixon, Julius

MV had the ball to start and Julius got a lob in over the zone defense to Jared to open with a basket. Austin Douglass fired back with an Eagle deuce.

Dixon continued a strong offensive evening with this sequence, nailing down the basket + 1…


…he made the free throw.

Jared scored on the next possession with a strong dribble-in basket from the three point circle. That made it 52-27 with 5:05 remaining and Rick and Jared were finished for the evening.

Julius was not out however and continued to make his presence known. He got to the line the next three straight possessions and made 4-6 free throws.

The lineup for the last four minutes included Nick, AJ King, Thad Woodard, Omar Hazimah and Daniel Brandon.

Omar also dished this pretty pass to Thad…


…and the crowd went wild.

AJ King got into the spirit with this give and go from Daniel Brandon...




Omar then scored his final regular season two points for the Hawks, a sweet move to the basket seen exclusively on the Hawkblog...


…and again the student section let him know he’d be missed.

The Hawks dribbled out the final 30 seconds...




...and at game’s end were up 26.

Final Game Thoughts

Give it up one more time for the Seniors in the post game commentary.





Well done, gentlemen.

The Hawks end the season 16-3 / 10-2 in the TAAC. This represented a three game improvement over 2009-10’s 14-6 campaign and MV’s best season in over a decade.

But there wasn’t a sense of finality at game’s end, because there’s much to gain in the OHSAA Playoffs, which start March 4 for the Blue and White.

Statistically, the Hawkblog stats team says it was the best shooting night of the season. MV was unofficially 23-29 (79%!!) from the floor, including 5-6 from long range. The Hawks were also 11-15 from the line – a 73% success rate. MV had 20 rebounds and 10 assists on the evening. The defense held North Central to 11-30 (37%) from the floor. The Eagles got to the line 17 times, making 11 for a respectable 65% clip.

Potpourri

- North Central is a young team, featuring only one Senior, Brandon Manley. Their varsity roster has seven juniors and two sophomores.

- TC Coach Dave McWhinnie was in the stands for the game. He was overheard calling some of MV’s plays in advance – ‘this play’s going to be a lob pass to the big guy’ – for the benefit of the North Central JVs sitting next to him.

- Jared’s 15 vs. Rick’s 14 on the evening secured the regular season scoring title for Jared by a razor-thin two points.

- Dixon was 3-3 from the line on the evening, extending his streak to 11 straight free throws.

Scoring

And now for the happy totals. The Hawks were led tonight by Jared Sturt with 15, Rick Deichert with 14 and Julius Turner's 13. Numerous players scored this evening for the Blue and White, including Dave Brown and Dixon Stoddard (extending his free throw streak to 11 straight) with 5, and AJ King, Nick Frasco, Omar Hazimah, Thad Woodard and Jonathan Krueger with 2 each.

Next up

The 16-3 Hawks now earn a well-deserved rest until Friday, March 4, when they face the winner of Tuesday's Northwood - Toledo Christian first round playoff game. Tipoff is 6:15pm at Rossford High School. Make your plans now to be there as Maumee Valley seeks to win its first Sectional title since 2002.

Chapter 18 – Hawks-prey – Maumee Valley 57 – North Baltimore 39 at the Varsity Gym – 2.19.11 - Game Story

Setting the Table

Good Evening North Baltimore
Every shot’s like an open door
Every block is a fantasy
Every fast break's a symphony

Good Evening North Baltimore
And that night when we took to the floor
The world's waking up to see
North Baltimore and MV!

         - With apologies to Scott Whitman



So, would the visiting North Baltimore Tigers play like Tracy Turnblad this night – that plucky underdog who turns the world upside down and wins the day?

Well, not tonight.

And no, there was nobody in the crowd who even remotely resembled Edna in case you were wondering.

Game Summary

Maumee Valley extended their record to 15-3 tonight with a 57-38 win against Midland Athletic League foe North Baltimore at the Varsity Gym. Although the score was almost identical to Friday's 57-39 win against Cardinal Stritch, the game had a decidedly different feel. MV played loose and confident from the opening tip-off.

The Hawks dominated play from the opening, leading after 11-6 after one quarter and 25-11 at the half. Although North Baltimore's game was designed around the outside shot, the Hawks were 7-15 from beyond the arc, compared with 6-13 for the Tigers.

The night featured perfection from the line from one Dixon Stoddard who, according to exclusive Hawkblog sources simply stopped thinking and started shooting. This mind-clearing exercise worked to the tune of an 8-8 evening from the charity stripe.

First Quarter – MV 11 – NB 6

Starting five – Dave Brown (’13), Rick Deichert (’12), Jared Sturt (’12), Jonathan Krueger (’12) and Julius Turner (’12)

North Baltimore Starting five – Clinton Ebright (Sr), Parker Emahiser (Sr), Tyler Schloemp (Sr), Tyler Hillard (Sr), and Evan North (Jr)

North Baltimore rolled out a 2-3 zone against MV. The Hawks rotated between man, zone and full court pressure defense throughout the evening.

The evening started out with the now-familiar Rick Deichert lob to Jared for two to open the scoring. But North Baltimore ran a well-timed backdoor play from Evan North to Parker Emahiser hit for two.

Rick Deichert drove in along the right baseline to tie the game, and Emahiser fed Clinton Ebright for a three ball. Julius Turner then fouled North, who made the first of two free throws, then the visitors rebounded the second shot and had the ball with a 6-4 NB lead. It would be the high water mark of the evening for the Tigers.

Jared blocked a close in shot by NB post player Evan North, and in frustration he first fouled Jared at the visitors’ end, then fouled Dixon Stoddard 20 seconds later. Dixon made his first two points of the evening and North took an early seat.

After a North Baltimore traveling call, Rick fired a three pointer in from the top of the key. With the score MV 9 – NB 6, coach Josh Williams called time to reset the offense. The play call resulted in an open look Tyler Schloemp, but he missed not one, but two three point tries.

Following unsuccessful possessions for each team the Hawks went to work again, now with Nick Frasco in the game. This time Jared found success on a six foot turnaround jumper in the key – assist to a sharp passing Julius Turner. It was 11-6 Hawks. Each team would have two more possessions apiece at quarter end, but no further scoring occurred and the Hawks took a five point lead at the 25% mark.

Second Quarter – MV 14 – NB 5

Starting the Quarter – Rick, Nick, Jared, Julius, Dixon

Evan North returned to the game for the Tigers. Dixon showcased his ability to encourage aggressive play by his opponents.

North committed his third foul 14 seconds into the frame, a shoulder-down charge into Dixon’s solar plexis. Dixon's defensive style sort of reminds me of this guy:



Wondering why you're having an off night?



North Baltimore switched into a 1-2-2 zone, attacking the point guard up top. MV worked a double low post game, and Dixon at the left block found a wide-open Julius on the wing for a three.

After a steal by both teams, Jon Kruger was fouled shooting and made one shot. The Tigers called another timeout, down 15-6. The inbounds play to Mitchell Archer was successful for two points.

With their main inside threat out the Tigers decided to focus their offense on the three point shot. On their next possession, Tyler Schloemp hit an NBA three pointer from the left hand bleachers.

Conversely MV duly noted the lack of a defensive stopper and started working a triangle offense down low. Rick and Jon worked the ball in to Jared for two points at 4:08.

This play sparked the Hawks onto a run. It started, as seen below, when Rick grabbed a defensive rebound and ultimately got it to Dave for the running two pointer


The Tigers missed again and Rick came right back with this three…


Three empty possessions later Rick again hit for three and the Hawks had reeled off 10 straight. It was 25-11 in favor of the Blue and White. After a North Baltimore turnover, the home team had one last chance to score but did not cash in. The Hawks were up by 14 at the half after a stellar defensive performance.

Third Quarter MV 17 – NB 12

Starting the quarter – initial game starters

North Baltimore tried to switch things up and went to a 1-3-1 zone. MV’s Julius Turner just decided to shoot over it and opened the half with a three pointer.

MV replied with its own zone, but Parker Emahiser got to the basket for two + the foul on Jon Krueger. He made the bonus to pull the Tigers back to 13. MV continued to plunder the zone, Rick hitting next with a trey.

Jared continued to make it a tough night for Evan North, blocking his shot attempt, then scoring from deep in the box. MV got the ball back on a fast break and Rick dished it to Julius for the finisher.

Tiger coach Josh Williams called time at 5:07 with his team down 35-14.

Jared blocked the next shot attempt, but after a Rick Deichert foul, Emahiser scored for the visitors. Julius then passed the ball over the Tiger zone and Jared returned the favor with this two pointer…


… then at the 3:36 mark AJ King



…hit this three pointer. Jared broke up the next NB possession with a steal and almost dunked the follow-up but was fouled – he made both ends and it was 42-16 MV.

Clinton Ebright stopped the bleeding temporarily for the Tigers with two shots from beyond the arc. MV could not convert the final possession of the quarter. It was another successful quarter for the Hawks, who were now ahead 42-23.

Fourth Quarter – MV 15 – NB 15

Starting the quarter – initial game starters

North Baltimore had the initial possession, but only for 11 seconds before Julius stole the ball and worked it to Dixon, who was fouled shooting…



…and made both tries. NB scored next on a pretty pass through the zone for a two ball by Mitchell Archer.

Julius dribbled through the zone from the left side to return fire for MV, then Ebright hit another deep three.

Following a Hawk turnover, Dixon once again wreaked havoc - first being tripped by a defender...




... and hitting two free throws, then got to the line again after this Jon Krueger rebound…





And made his seventh and eighth free throws in a row – a individual career and team season-high for the Hawk forward.

MV pressed out of the stoppage in play and forced a turnover. Jared Sturt capitalized with this two pointer...


Closing things out for the Hawks in the quarter was this Dave Brown drive to the basket – he was fouled and made both ends…


…this Daniel Brandon score from the line


… and this Nick Frasco score with 1:26 left to finish it off for the home team.


The Hawks finished the game leading by 19 – final score MV 57 – NB 38.

Final Game Thoughts

Another strong performance for the Hawks, who now have rebounded nicely following the Ottawa Hills defeat with two strong wins.  Their record now stands at 15-3. 

Maumee Valley took charge from the start and used its superior size to take control of the game. An active man-to-man defense and timely pressing shut down whatever chances the Tigers may have had from the outside.

MV continues to feature balanced scoring, and kudos again to Dixon for a hot night at the line.

Statistically, MV was 18-37 in total from the floor, including a 7-15 performance from three point range – Rick going 4-8. The Hawks were in double digits in steals, led by Julius with three. Jared had three blocks on the evening – he’d later dispute that with your unofficial Hawkblog statistician, claiming he had many more…

Scoring

And now for the happy totals. Rick and Jared each scored 14 for the winners, and Julius contributed 10. Dixon had eight points, Dave Brown 4 points, AJ King 3, Nick Frasco 2, plus Daniel Brandon and Jonathan Krueger with 1 each.

Next up

The Hawks have several days off until a Friday meeting with Woodward High School (game subsequently cancelled), then return home the following Saturday to face North Central from the Buckeye Border Conference. Last year's victory against the Eagles was the very definition of a Pyrrhic Victory as Senior starters Jangus Whitner and Carter Bayer were both injured during the game and thus unable to play to a fraction of their potential in the 2009-10 playoffs.

Chapter 17 – Smashmouth – Hawks 57 – (at) Cardinal Stritch 39 – 2.18.11 - Game Story

Setting the Table



Some teams try to outrun you, some teams try to outgun you. Some teams run a pattern offense, some teams feature a single guy you just have to stop.

Then there’s Cardinal Stritch, who simply tries to beat you into submission. Their coach Dave Reicker is a tough nosed individual who expects his players to bang the glass and dive for every loose ball. If you get in their way, well that’s why they invented ice bags.

On the Cardinals senior night, the home team was hoping to knock some sense into the visiting Hawks and have them behave like good guests. This strategy worked well into the second quarter until Maumee Valley turned on the heat and began to fight back.

In the second half, Coach Robinson made two defensive adjustments, and the Smashmouth-ee became the Smashmouth-or.

Game Summary

Maumee Valley put a damper on Cardinal Stritch's Senior Night, beating the Cardinals 57-39 in Oregon, Ohio. The hosts appeared ready to send their Seniors out with a bang early, jumping on the Hawks for a 16-4 first quarter lead. But the Rip van Hawkles would awake from their slumber near the end of the first half on three consecutive steal/conversions in the last minute to trim their deficit to four at the break.

Coach Robinson made two defensive adjustments in the second half, unleashing an aggressive half court trap, and switching Dixon Stoddard on defense to guard hot-shooting CS guard Justin Staler. These two moves led to a 21-4 third quarter advantage for the Blue and White. The fourth quarter featured more of the same, with the Hawks sealing the victory.

First Quarter – CS 16 – MV 6

Starting five – Dave Brown (’13), Rick Deichert (’12), Jared Sturt (’12), Jonathan Krueger (’12) and Julius Turner (’12)

Cardinal Stritch Starting five – Michael Blazevich (Jr), Matt Guy (Sr), Justin Staler (Sr), Nick Fuller (Sr) and Kyle Hatfield (Jr)

Cardinal Stritch started the game in a 2-3 zone and stayed there much of the night. MV played man defense, with some key variations in intensity.

Justin Staler got free early for the first basket on a runner from the right hand baseline. The Cardinals tried an early 2-2-1 press, but it was not effective. However, MV did not score and CS went to a four corners-style offense. Despite a big block by Jared, Staler scored again. A steal and then a basket by Matt Guy and Coach Robinson called time out with 5:05 left and his team quickly down 6-0.

The Hawks continued their sluggishness on offense until Julius Turner stole the ball and pushed to the hoop drawing the foul. He made both ends to get his Hawksquad on the board at 4:33. Cardinal Stritch responded with a layup by a wide open Kyle Hatfield and it was 8-2 CS.

MV missed another three point shot and then watched as Staler again drove in for two, this time down the middle. Another MV miss and Michael Blazevich nailed a three pointer from the right corner. The home crowd was in a frenzy as their team had grabbed a 13-2 advantage.

Jared Sturt calmed things down slightly with a two pointer courtesy of a Jon Krueger assist. Jared stole the ball on the next Cardinal possession and the visitors got the ball to Dixon at the right hand block for two more.

With time running down in the quarter Rick Deichert nearly stole an inbounds pass for Staler, but missed, leaving the Senior guard a free path to the hoop from the left corner. He made the basket despite being fouled by Jared. He made the free throw to up the lead to ten.

MV had the final possession but did not convert.

At the end of the first quarter, the Hawks were fortunate to be down by only 16-6. The Cardinals were perfect from the field (7-7, including one three-pointer) and 1-1 from the line. MV was 0-4 from behind the three point line and 2-2 from close range.

On Senior Night, Justin Staler started off with nine points in his last home game for the Red and Black.

MV struggled again from beyond the arc, going 0-4 from long range.

Second Quarter MV 13 – CS 7

Starting the Quarter – Jon, Dixon, Julius, Dave and Rick.

The initial break of the second quarter went the Hawks’ way when Justin Staler picked up two fouls in the first 1:20. The hottest shooter in the building was sent to the bench.

Play was unproductive for both teams during the first three minutes of play, and it wasn’t until the 4:42 mark that Jared scored the first points for either side, making one of two free throws.

Cardinal Stritch came right back with red hot play. Three point specialist Robbie Bekier drained in a three from the right corner.

Rick finally connected on a deep shot for MV to cut the gap to 19-10 with 4:10 to go. On the ensuing CS possession, Connor Kelsey craftily bumped Rick off of rebounding position, enabling him to grab an offensive rebound and score two more Cardinal points. Rick hung in and drove powerfully to the basket, drawing a foul on Kyle Hatfield. He made one of two and it was 21-11 with 3:23 remaining.

MV became more lively as the quarter went on. Dave Brown made a spectacular pass to Julius from the left wing for a basket.

Sensing a turning tide, Coach Dave Reicker brought Staler back into the game and he outran the Hawk defense on an inbounds pass for two points. That would re-establish a ten point lead for the hosts at 23-13. It was also the pinnacle of the evening for CS.

Julius Turner would earn two free throws getting to the basket and make both. On the next play, Rick Deichert knocked the ball out of a Cardinal’s hands and dove to retrieve it, calling time out before he could be called for traveling.

With 1:12 remaining, MV missed a shot at their end, Dixon Stoddard blocked a shot but the Hawks lost the ensuing possession. Then with 17 seconds to play, Dave Brown plucked the ball out of a CS guard’s hands…


…and drove to the hoop, scoring. The Cardinals inbounded the ball, but this time…


…Dixon made a steal with nine seconds remaining and fed it to Jared for the quarter ending score.

What had been a 10 point Cardinal Stritch lead with 1:52 remaining had been whittled down to four. At the end of the half it was CS 25 – MV 19.

The Cardinals looked like they may be susceptible to pressure; this theory would get a test in the second half.

Third Quarter – MV 21 – CS 4

Starting the Quarter – Initial Game Starters

MV started the quarter with the possession and Jared made good on it, throwing in a two pointer off a Julius Turner assist. The Hawks got the ball back off a Dave Brown steal, and the Hawks’ point guard alley-ooped a pass to Jared at the rim for two more. The game was tied at the 6:55 mark.

On defense, Coach Robinson made two key changes at the beginning of the third. First, he switched the defense up to an aggressive half court trap. Second, he switched Dixon Stoddard to man coverage against Justin Staler.

The benefits were immediate; Dave and Julius were on the Cardinals like Hawks on field mice. Additionally, Staler’s bread and butter on the night – the drive to the basket – was taken away by the 6’2” Stoddard.

After a CS basket by Michael Blazevich off an inbounds play, the Cardinals were at a loss to generate offense.

The Hawks got more aggressive on the offensive end as well. Jared continued his strong play, grabbing a rebound off a missed Hawks free throw and was fouled by Kyle Hatfield, his third. Jared made both shots to even the score at 25.

With the half court pressure, the Cardinals backcourt was anxious to get rid of the ball as the trap approached – only to see Jared begin to step into the middle and intercept the cross court passes.

After Jared’s first steal of the quarter he got the ball to Rick, who drove right down main street for the two pointer and the Hawks had their first lead of the game. Coach Reicker called time out at 5:48 and was not pleased.

Rick got in on the press action and jumped a pass next. He fell down driving to the basket and was replaced by AJ King while having his elbow checked out. CS had the ball back, but Dave had another steal and got it to Jared for another two points.

The Hawks post player blocked another Cardinal try and AJ was on the receiving end of a beautiful backdoor pass for two more.

Cardinal Stritch tried to stop the hemorrhaging, but missed on its next trip down. Dixon pulled the rebound and fired it ahead to Dave Brown for two points. After another CS possession in which they missed two tries, Dixon again cleaned the glass and fired a pass to Dave, who was fouled shooting. He would make one of two and the home team called for a breather at 2:56 remaining.

With a few substitutions, the Hawk lineup now included Nick Frasco, Rick, Jonathan, Jared and Dixon.

Cardinal Stritch had the ball, but the trap worked again. Jared stole the ball up high and dribbled coast to coast for the shot, but was fouled. He converted the pair and the whole thing started over again.

This time the Jared steal ended up in Rick’s hands and he broke to the hoop for two.

It was a full-blown hardwood crime wave:

I was working the day watch out of larceny.

…and the basketball burglary continued with AJ King, this time firing it over to Julius who scored at the hoop. MV had scored fifteen straight and it was MV 40 – CS 25.

Matt Guy salvaged some respect for the home team with a closing hoop, but the damage was done and the Hawks were up by 13.

Fourth Quarter – MV 17 – CS 14

Starting the quarter – AJ, Nick, Julius, Jared and Jonathan

Jon Kruger opened up the third quarter with a layup off a Nick Frasco pass.

The Hawks will have to be on the lookout the next two years for the Cardinal’s sharpshooting Sophomore Robbie Bekier, who scored next with a three pointer from deep in the right corner.

Jon answered back with a pull-up jump shot, then Justin Staler returned the favor for CS.

Jared powered in for two points – then once more with a basket +1 - here they are through the magic of digital video…







Then Rick got to the hoop and was fouled by Kyle Hatfield, his fifth on the evening...




Robbie Bekier hit another three.

Watch out.

I’m just sayin'.

Then Julius Turner…



…drove down the middle for two.

Justin Staler made another basket, then Dave Brown connected with Jared for two.

Julius made one more shot which was captured for posterity.



On the floor at game’s end were Nick Frasco, Daniel Brandon, Omar Hazimah, AJ King and Thad Woodard.





The final score – Hawks 57 – Cardinal Stritch 39.

Final Game Thoughts

After a 2.5 quarter shooting slump, (last Q vs. Ottawa Hills and first 1.5 Qs in this game), Maumee Valley powered up and played in your face defense to overwhelm their TAAC opponents. If the Hawks keep up this pace, they’ll be tough to stop.

Bonus Music Video

Here's the Cardinal Stritch pep band with the school fight song.




Scoring

And now for the happy totals. Jared Sturt had a big night, leading all scorers with 22. Julius Turner had 12, Rick Deichert 10, Dave Brown 5, Jonathan Krueger 4, Dixon Stoddard and AJ King 2.

Next up

The grueling week of basketball (not to mention blogging) concludes tonight with the second back-to-back stretch of the week ending with a visit from the North Baltimore Tigers to the Varsity Gym.

Chapter 14 – Morphin’ the Power Rangers – Hawks 63 – Northwood 36 – 2.11.11 – Game Story

Setting the Table

That's right.  You know you watched it - the ubiquitous live action / animated series featuring those colorful action heroes who more often than not successfully fought off an evil monster or some Zord gone bad.

From Wikipedia – The titular Power Rangers are individuals who "morph" from ordinary people into powerful superheroes…a morphed Ranger generally possesses superhuman strength, durability, and ability in hand-to-hand combat. Rangers regularly operate in teams of five...

In a way, the morphing concept is particularly apt in describing the Northwood Rangers this year. First year coach John Bryan has a true work in process on his hands and is molding a young group of players to fit his system. It is a year of growing pains for the Rangers, who had lost eight straight leading up to this game against the Hawks.





Hey, why don't we start with everyone wearing the same colored uni's, OK?


Any Hawk fan with a reasonably long memory should have much empathy for Coach Bryan’s position.

Assuming the Northwood Power Rangers weren’t going to defy the laws of physics with actual super powers, it looked to be a long night for the guests…

Game Summary

Maumee Valley defeated the Northwood Rangers 63-36 tonight at the Varsity Gym, extending their winning streak to eight games. Nine Hawks scored during the evening, led by Rick Deichert’s 18, Jared Sturt’s 14 and Julius Turner’s 13.

Each of these three played to their strengths tonight. Rick was 4-5 from three point range. Jared was 5-8 from two point range and 4-4 from the line. Julius had seven steals, three 2 balls, two 3 balls and got to the foul line eight times, making five.

The Hawks were also strong tonight from the charity stripe, going 16 for 24, including 11 for their first 12.

Solomon Collins and Caleb Willhight saw their first action tonight for the varsity Hawksquad.

The Blue and White moved to 12-2, 8-1 in the TAAC

First Quarter – MV 21 – NW 10

Starting five – Dave Brown (’13), Rick Deichert (’12), Jared Sturt (’12), Dixon Stoddard (’12) and Julius Turner (’12)

Northwood came out in a 2-3 zone and stayed there most of the evening.  MV played man defense all night, and pressed about 20% of the game.

The Hawks came out of the shoot hot with Rick Deichert draining a three to begin the action. NW’s Ricky Hartley answered back with a layup off a screen. Jared scored the next two points off a pass from Rick, and those scores made up the highlight package from the Channel 11/BCSN Friday night report.

Jared picked up his first foul at the 5:10 mark and Dixon entered the game.

After the opening flurry, the scoring pace slowed as MV tried to work off the rust from a seven day layoff. Northwood’s John Segura scored two on another well designed play, then Rick was fouled as he drove to the basket. He made both free throws and during the stoppage, Jared returned to the lineup.

It was 7-4 Hawks when they would make their first run of the game. Julius drove to the basket and dished off to Jared for two. Following a Ranger free throw, Jared and Julius got some strong inside play, with Jared finishing off a Julius pass after an offensive rebound.

Northwood missed their next attempt and Jared was fouled at the other end while shooting – and made both attempts.

After a Ranger timeout, Dave found Rick wide open in the corner for another three pointer. Julius stole the ball again and drove the length of the court where he was fouled and made both ends. It was now 16-4 Hawks.

Northwood’s Trey Cloud made a fade-away jumper to cut the lead by two, but Rick came back with a three-ball which bounced two feet up off the rim then straight down the cylinder. The teams traded two more baskets, including this Rick Deichert runner with time expiring...




...and the half ended with MV up 11.

Coach Robinson urged his team to play better defense around the basket during the time out, feeling that they surrendered too many easy layups. But overall it was a big quarter for the Hawks, Rick leading the way with 13 points, including nine off three pointers.

Second Quarter – MV 15 – NW 6

Starting the Quarter – Rick, Nick Frasco, Julius, Dixon Stoddard and Jonathan Krueger.

Northwood started the scoring with a two point bank shot by John Willey, but Julius countered with a three pointer off a Nick Frasco assist. Julius cut in front of the next Ranger pass and drove down court, looping it to Dixon who was fouled shooting. Stoddard would make one to put the Hawks up by 13 with 5:44 left and with a stoppage in play, Jared and Dave re-entered the game.

MV’s defense rose up to meet Coach Robinson’s challenge on the next play and forced a five second call on an inbounds attempt.

The Hawks continued their strong free throw shooting, with Jared and Dave Brown converting two each on consecutive possessions. The Blue and White made eleven of their first twelve free throws.

With several Hawks coming off the flu earlier in the week and four more games to be played by next Saturday, several players saw extended action on the evening. AJ King and Solomon Collins (in his varsity debut) entered the game inside the 5:00 mark.

MV dominated the inside during the next stretch, as Jared made two on a putback after a missed free throw. Following a score by the Rangers’ John Willey, AJ scored with help from Dave and Julius as seen here:


Jared picked off a Northwood pass next.  Off an inbounds play, watch Dave Brown draw the 2-3 zone defenders toward him, opening up AJ King for the trey...



...with this three pointer, and the Hawks led 36-16.

Omar Hazimah came in to close the first half action out, and the home team was up 20.

Julius Turner had a big half defensively with five steals in the first 16 minutes. The Hawks also were 5-11 from three point range, including a 3-4 performance by Rick Deichert.

Third Quarter – MV 15 – NW 15

Starting the Quarter – Dave, Jared, Omar, AJ and Solomon

John Segura scored first for the visitors. MV’s Dave Brown responded with a drive down the middle of the lane for two points:


Northwood’s James Radcliffe nailed a jumper, then the Rangers came back again with a basket by Ricky Hartley + 1, and the lead was cut to 38-25.

In came Rick, Julius and Jonathan and on came another Hawk run.

Rick got to the hoop for two with a strong drive to steady the Hawks’ course. Then the offense began working the ball into Jared.

Northwood’s coach John Bryan yelled out ‘double down’ to his defense in an effort to stop the MV post player. But like an unlucky blackjack player, he could only watch helplessly as Jared dealt the Rangers a two on the play.

Julius continued the Hawks run with another steal and a spinning 360º layup.

Jared scored next in transition:




Julius stole yet another errant Northwood pass and was fouled at the hoop with 2:16 remaining. He made one of two, and the Hawks had torn off a 9-2 run. Thad Woodard entered the game for the home team and MV continued scoring.

Dave Brown drew a foul and made one of two at the 1:38 mark.

Watch the ball movement up top on this next sequence, as Julius sealed the quarter for MV with 40 seconds remaining on this three pointer:




The Hawks had weathered Northwood’s best stretch of the evening and battled back to a draw. At the end of three, it was MV 51 – NW 31

Fourth Quarter – MV 12 – NW 5

Starting the quarter: Dave, Rick, Julius, Thad, Daniel Brandon

Repeating the first quarter opening, Rick started MV off with a three point shot, capping off a 4-5 evening from long range. After a John Segura two pointer for the visitors, Julius was fouled on two straight possessions and cashed in for two points.

Rick then fired a pass inside to a waiting Thad Woodard, who converted his first points of the evening.




...then Dave Brown floated a basket in over the Rangers' outstretched arms...




That start was good enough for Coach Robinson, who substituted Caleb Willhight (in his first varsity action) and Nick Frasco in to finish things off for the home team.

At 1:45, Solomon Collins made a foul-line jumper for his first varsity points.




The game ended with the Hawks ahead 27. Final score, Maumee Valley 63 – Northwood 36.

Final Game Thoughts

For the second game in a row, the Hawks substantially outdistanced their opponents in shots taken by a wide 57-35 margin. Many of these additional chances came from MVs 17 team steals on the night.

Three point shooting was another strength for MV, which went 7-16 from beyond the arc. To score 21 points from two point range in 16 tries, aside from the obvious statistical impossibility, you’d have to make a Jared-esque 65% of your shots. Such is the value of good three-point shooting.

With this long-range accuracy, the Dave at point + Rick/Julius/Jonathan/AJ on the wings combination places tremendous pressure on a 2-3 zone. And if the zone is drawn out or altered to meet this threat, it opens things up for Jared and Dixon underneath – recall Bettsville’s lack of success with the 3-2. This is another emerging offensive combination which will force defenses out of their zones and into man.

Several Northwood underclassmen are seeing significant action down the home stretch of the season. Additionally, the Rangers’ eighth grade boys won the TAAC this year, so there is cause for optimism in 2011-12 for the Blue and Gold.

Small stuff

- The Hawks have a new addition to their team – Haithem Maaiah’s young brother has taken a job as Official Hawks Ball Boy. Watch out for him in eight years.

- As noted above, several Hawks suffered flu-like symptoms during the week, depleting the team so much that the Danbury game was postponed. Thanks to the Lakers for understanding, but they postponed the game on the condition that they could pick the make-up date – and they selected Monday February 14. Speaking of make-up dates, Danbury coach Drew Davie may need to schedule one of those himself with his S.O. for booking a game on Valentine’s Day.

- Northwood has a point guard named Ricky Hartley, so it was a bit confusing to hear both coaches barking out instructions to Ricky during the game.

- The Rangers’ games are broadcast on internet radio – www.wrscradio.com – and those call letters coincidentally bring back good memories for your Hawkblog Editor. WRSC AM 1390 broadcasts over-the-air sports in State College, Pennsylvania.

Not so small stuff

This coming Sunday is seeding day for the boys’ playoffs. MV stands a better than 50/50 chance to be the number one seed in the Rossford Sectional, which includes MV, TC, OH, Northwood, Cardinal Stritch and Bettsville. If MV is seeded number 1, TC and OH would likely play each other first, with the winner having a chance to face the Hawks down the road. Based on the sectional/divisional playoff setup, any rematch between a #1 seeded Hawksquad and the other TAAC contenders would not take place until the District final game (the round of 32).

This is confusing without a bracket to study, so as soon as one is available, I’ll post it.

Scoring

And now for the happy totals. In addition to Rick’s 18, Jared’s 14 and Julius’13, Dave Brown scored 7, AJ King had 5, Thad Woodard and Solomon Collins (his first varsity points) each scored 2 and Omar Hazimah and Dixon Stoddard contributed 1 apiece.

Next up

The basketball extravaganza continues Monday when the Danbury Lakers come to town for a 6pm JV start.

And oh yeah, there’s a little game Tuesday against Ottawa Hills…