Your Hawkblogger apologizes for the fact that his primary computer is being replaced this evening and therefore, no videos will be available until tomorrow morning.
On the good side, your Hawkblogger did capture the Julius Turner behind the back pass to Jared for the dunk. So stay tuned for that.
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
MV 75 - Gibsonburg 53 Quick Summary
The Hawks set out to show the TAAC who was the boss 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 play they needed to counter Gibsonburg's tough-nosed play. Jared Sturt was a steady force throughout the entire game.
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.
It's back home Friday for the Hawks to again perform in the three-games-in-seven-nights TAAC meat grinder when the Toledo Christian Eagles come to the Varsity Gym.
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| I was standing on the 14th tee tied for the lead, then Julius Turner hit me with a 3-iron. |
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 play they needed to counter Gibsonburg's tough-nosed play. Jared Sturt was a steady force throughout the entire game.
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.
It's back home Friday for the Hawks to again perform in the three-games-in-seven-nights TAAC meat grinder when the Toledo Christian Eagles come to the Varsity Gym.
Gibsonburg redux - game two preview
So here it comes, the big one. TAAC 1 vs. TAAC 2 for a clear lead or share thereof. A duel of champions - just like Jack vs. Arnie in their glory days.
In their first game, Gibsonburg clawed out of a 10 point deficit to defeat the Hawks 46-43 on Maumee Valley's home court. MV had the lead with under a minute to play, but let the ball get away from them and the rest was history.
Since then, both teams have, for the most part, had their way with their opponents. The teams feature two different styles of play, both effective. Gibsonburg likes to run-and-gun, as evidenced by their TAAC leading 67.3 points scored per game. The Bears feature four of the TAAC's top leading scorers (stats as of January 26, 2012):
Nate Yarborogh - 14.1 ppg
Gage Beaber - 13.7 ppg
Dylan Dorfmeyer - 13.2 ppg
Logan Jones - 11.7 ppg
MV has three scorers in the TAAC leaderboard (see Scoreapalooza below), but likes their defense too. The Hawks have averaged 61.2 points per contest, and are allowing a league low 38.4 ppg. As a result, the Blue and White also lead the TAAC in average victory margin - 22.8 points.
However, in one game the victory margin was a minus three, and that's why it's uber important for the visitors to pick up the win this evening.
How will the Hawks do in a hostile environment? Well, you have to go back to almost two years ago exactly - February 2, 2010 at Ottawa Hills - to see that last time that Maumee Valley lost on an opponents' floor. Hopefully the Hawks can keep that streak going this evening.
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| Picture obviously not taken in NW Ohio, as they are climbing a hill. |
In their first game, Gibsonburg clawed out of a 10 point deficit to defeat the Hawks 46-43 on Maumee Valley's home court. MV had the lead with under a minute to play, but let the ball get away from them and the rest was history.
Since then, both teams have, for the most part, had their way with their opponents. The teams feature two different styles of play, both effective. Gibsonburg likes to run-and-gun, as evidenced by their TAAC leading 67.3 points scored per game. The Bears feature four of the TAAC's top leading scorers (stats as of January 26, 2012):
Nate Yarborogh - 14.1 ppg
Gage Beaber - 13.7 ppg
Dylan Dorfmeyer - 13.2 ppg
Logan Jones - 11.7 ppg
MV has three scorers in the TAAC leaderboard (see Scoreapalooza below), but likes their defense too. The Hawks have averaged 61.2 points per contest, and are allowing a league low 38.4 ppg. As a result, the Blue and White also lead the TAAC in average victory margin - 22.8 points.
However, in one game the victory margin was a minus three, and that's why it's uber important for the visitors to pick up the win this evening.
How will the Hawks do in a hostile environment? Well, you have to go back to almost two years ago exactly - February 2, 2010 at Ottawa Hills - to see that last time that Maumee Valley lost on an opponents' floor. Hopefully the Hawks can keep that streak going this evening.
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.
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.
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.
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| 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.
Monday, January 30, 2012
Chapter 25 – Trading Places – MV 51 – Ottawa Hills 39 at the Varsity Gym – December 16, 2011 - Game Story
Setting the Table
When we last left these opponents, they had finished polishing each other off at each others’ home courts during the 2010-11 season. The second game would prove costly for the Hawks as the Green Bears gained revenge for the Hawks’ win in the opener and clinched the TAAC Championship in a sold out game in the Valley.
Last year’s Ottawa Hills team was led by all-TAAC players JJ Buckey and Andrew Jamieson. The departure of these two seniors left a big hole in the Bears’ ball handling and press breaking ability. To date, opposing teams have taken aim at these holes and OH’s lack of a true point guard. The Bears have been susceptible to pressure as far back as the Central Catholic summer league. While the Villagers came into the contest at 2-1, they had just come off a eye-opening 16 point loss at home against Cardinal Stritch, an early press being their demise.
Adding to the intrigue of the game was the transfer of one Atmore James King Jr. from Maumee Valley to Ottawa Hills. AJ, one of the nicest guys you’d ever want to meet, was now showing off his 6’2” swing man skills in a Green and White uniform. His debut at his former school was much anticipated by both fan bases, evidenced on one side by an OH pre-game spirit video AJ being kidnapped by:
• the ‘4’8”, 85 lbs.’ Dave Brown
• Cello Playing Rick Deichert and
• Jersey Rippin’ Kristin Bigelow
The HawkSquad’s faithful student section would counter with a greeting of its own during pre-game intros.
But the oddest feel of the night was the sense that Maumee Valley was on top of this long-storied rivalry for the moment, following years of series domination by their neighbors to the north. For once in a blue moon, it was the Green Bears seeking an upset at the Varsity Gym.
It was to be an evening of Trading Places.
Game Summary
HawkNation was out in full force last night to watch their team defeat the Green Bears 51-39 at the Valley in front of a sold-out house and BCSN television audience. With the win, Maumee Valley righted their ship in TAAC play, finishing 2-1 in the three-games-in-seven-nights gauntlet of Gibsonburg, TC and OH. The back to back wins against TC and OH are another milestone for MV, their first such set in many a year.
Ottawa Hills has a big front line, but if you can't get the ball into that group, they can't do much damage. MV used full court pressure and forced 22 OH turnovers during the contest. The defense energized the home team, which jumped to a 13 point half time lead. In the second half, the Hawks played big time Robo-ball, controlling the pace and limiting the Bears' shot opportunities. MV made their free throws down the stretch and iced the game in the last quarter.
Dave Brown was the unsung hero of the second half, controlling the ball for a series of long stretches for which OH had no answer. Opponents simply don't apply more than token pressure against MV this season because of Dave's ball-handling presence.
First Quarter MV 24 – OH 15
Starting five – Dave Brown (’13), Rick Deichert (’12), Jared Sturt (’12), Jonathan Krueger (’12) and Julius Turner (’12)
OH starting five – Ian Trickey, AJ King, RJ Coil, Lucas Janowicz, Geoffrey Beans
Of note, this was not the visitors’ regular starting five. Coach Dave Lindsay went with a Big-guy lineup, hoping that the Coil-Janowicz-King-Beans front would cause problems.
There would indeed be problems caused by this lineup, but they were mostly self-inflicted, relating to OH ball handling.
Jared won the tip and OH fell back into a 2-3 zone, where they stayed for the greatest percentage of the evening. Julius got the ball rolling for the Hawks with a three pointer from the left wing. The Bears were also successful their first time down the court with a Lucas Janowicz cleanup basket. A Hawk miss led to an OH double low post set, and Janowicz scored again to make it 4-3 Bears.
Rick missed a three pointer, but OH was called for a travel. Maumee Valley worked the ball in to Jared Sturt for a layup. MV had problems grabbing a rebound on the next possession and Janowicz scored on an inbounds play for an 8-5 OH lead. Jon Krueger was fouled shooting and made both.
MV put their press on at the 4:41 mark, but Rick fouled AJ King on a two point try which resulted in three free throws-don’t ask. AJ made all three for the 10-7 Green Bear lead, their biggest of the evening. Julius Turner then drove through the middle of the zone and drew a shooting foul; he split the pair.
Into the game came Ben Silverman for OH, leading to a matchup of First Team All-Ohio Golfers, Ben vs. Rick.
The press continued and succeeded – Julius picked off a pass at the OH foul line and drove back in for a floor foul – which they did not convert. More pressing led to another floor foul, but Julius intercepted the pass and scored a pair.
The press started to wear on the Bears. MV trapped AJ in the offensive end, and Julius ripped the ball away – a pass to Jared gave the Hawks their first lead at 12-11. OH was at risk of a 10 second call but was rescued by Coach Lindsay, who called a time out at the 3:13 mark.
Another OH miss led to a Jared Sturt cleanup basket, and OH turned the ball over again on the press. Jared cleaned this up as well.
The 8-0 Hawk run was enough and Coach Lindsay called his second time out to draw up an answer. But the pressure got to the Bears again. Julius swiped the ball away from AJ for another break/layup.
King finally broke the drought for OH with a two pointer, but Julius swished a three ball from his familiar perch on the left wing. AJ created some space for himself and scored, and MV had the ball with 45 seconds left. With the OH student section screaming at the Hawks, they worked it around to Rick at the buzzer which ‘quieted’ the crowd.
The home team was up nine after the first frame
Second Quarter MV 11 – OH 8
Starting the quarter – Jared, Dixon Stoddard, Julius, Rick, Dave
OH had the ball in bounds to start the quarter; a flurry of turnovers ensued capped by AJ’s finest moment of the game, as he blocked a streaking Rick on a layup attempt. The Green end of the crowd went wild, but it didn’t faze the home team. Jared drew a shooting foul and made 1. Lucas Janowicz scored two for OH on a fade away.
The BCSN microphone then proceeded to fall down from the OH basket and a five minute timeout ensued. That’s life in the big leagues.
Geoffrey Beans gained a rare OH press break with a layup, but Rick was left wide open on the right wing and downed a three. Ottawa Hills’ 6’7” sophomore RJ Coil hit long-range two pointer to close it to 28-21. Then after a long but unfruitful MV possession, Rick picked AJ’s pocket at the Bears’ three point arc and went the distance for two.
MV went back to the press, forcing OH into their third time out of the half. Their plans during the break were successful, as Ian Trickey scored for the visitors, cutting it to 30-23. Following unsuccessful offensive sets for both teams, Rick fed off the visiting crowd again and downed a trey from the left side.
Jared then excited the when he blocked Coil at close range. Jon Krueger cashed in with a two pointer from the right hand elbow. That would be it for the half and the Hawks went to the locker room with a 35-23 lead.
Third Quarter OH 12 – MV 7
Starting the quarter – Original starting five
Jon Krueger drew a shooting foul to open the period and made one. Ottawa Hills threw the ball away, but MV did not capitalize. Lucas Janowicz scored first for the Bears with a field goal from the left hand baseline. The Hawks lost the ball and AJ King made it two in a row for the visitors, who had cut the lead to 36-27.
Jared worked hard at the other end, drawing a shooting foul and making both shots. After a series of goose eggs for each team (during which Julius drew his third foul), Rick got out on the break and scored for MV.
The Bears made their best run at the Hawks over the next two minutes, scoring 8 straight points and cutting the lead to 40-35, but Jared steadied the Hawk ship with this two pointer:
OH could not convert at quarter’s end, and it was 42-35 at the end of three. The visitors did not quit, and had closed the gap to seven points with one quarter to play.
Fourth Quarter MV 9 – OH 4
Starting the quarter – Original starting five
MV had the ball in, and Julius got a great look for a three pointer, but didn’t convert.
MV got the ball back and as Rick passed by the bench, the fourth quarter close shave with TC was still fresh in his mind. In battle-cry mode, he yelled out to the coaches ‘We need to attack!’
Julius must have overheard him and drove strong to the hoop, drawing the foul and making the pair. MV aggressively defended with the press, but Jon committed his third foul going for a steal at half court. OH missed the front end of a 1-and-1, letting a chance slip away.
Jon missed for MV, but again OH couldn’t make the Hawks pay. The Bears called a time out at the 6:00 mark and tried their first press on the evening. It got them nowhere and MV ran some weave offense, keeping their distance from the packed 2-3 zone. OH finally tried to match up at the top, and Dave Brown immediately knifed to the basket, drawing the shooting foul and converting after a one minute possession.
Julius committed his fourth foul on the press, and Ian Trickey split the pair. It was MV 46 - OH 36.
Rick Deichert missed a try, but once more OH could not cut into the lead. Another MV miss and Coach Lindsay called time out to prep for the stretch run. Janowicz missed a tough turn-around jumper from the left baseline, and then Ian Trickey fouled Rick – who missed the front end of a 1-and-1. Jon Krueger fouled Trickey and the Bears were in the double bonus. Trickey went 1 for 2.
MV slowed things down considerably. Ottawa Hills tried their best to harass Dave, but this proved to be a frustrating affair for the Bears. After running 40 seconds off the clock, it was Coach Robinson’s turn to call time out at the 2:08 mark.
MV threw the ball away trying to run the clock down, but Jared Sturt redeemed his teammates with a big steal. Another MV turnover, but now at 1:38 the Bears were battling two foes – the Hawks and the rapidly advancing clock.
Geoffrey Beans scored a two pointer, but it took a full 35 seconds in an offensive set. With under a minute to go, the visitors were now forced to foul – first Dave Brown made two, then after another long, unfruitful OH offensive possession Rick split another pair. Another forced Green Bear foul Rick made two more to finish it off.
The Hawks had learned their lesson at Toledo Christian, this time convincingly closing out a victory against a big rival, 50-39.
Final Game Thoughts
You definitely got the feeling in this game that OH considered themselves to be the underdog this year – and they played like a talented, but very young team. OH has only one Senior in their primary rotation. They will get better as the season goes on and should be one of the favorites in the pre-season 2012-13 TAAC coaches’ poll.
But for this season at least, when one things about the TAAC, it’s the Hawks on top and the Bears needing to work things out.
Potpourri
The Game was broadcast on BCSN (not in HD)…The win was the Hawks' first over their TAAC rivals at the Varsity Gym in at least five years…another sellout for the Hawks…it was AJ mania on both sides, as the Hawk cheering section donned ‘AJ masks” for the intro…
Scoring
And now for the happy totals. MV's trio of Rick Deichert, Julius Turner and Jared Sturt combined for 42 points on the evening. Each had their hot streaks, especially Julius in the first quarter, then Rick in the second. Rick led the way with 16; Julius and Jared each had 13 on the night.
Also scoring for the Hawks were Jon Krueger with 5 and Dave Brown with four, all big free throws in the fourth quarter.
Next up
The Hawks head out of conference, traveling southwest for a matchup with the Division III Tigers of Liberty Center.
When we last left these opponents, they had finished polishing each other off at each others’ home courts during the 2010-11 season. The second game would prove costly for the Hawks as the Green Bears gained revenge for the Hawks’ win in the opener and clinched the TAAC Championship in a sold out game in the Valley.
Last year’s Ottawa Hills team was led by all-TAAC players JJ Buckey and Andrew Jamieson. The departure of these two seniors left a big hole in the Bears’ ball handling and press breaking ability. To date, opposing teams have taken aim at these holes and OH’s lack of a true point guard. The Bears have been susceptible to pressure as far back as the Central Catholic summer league. While the Villagers came into the contest at 2-1, they had just come off a eye-opening 16 point loss at home against Cardinal Stritch, an early press being their demise.
Adding to the intrigue of the game was the transfer of one Atmore James King Jr. from Maumee Valley to Ottawa Hills. AJ, one of the nicest guys you’d ever want to meet, was now showing off his 6’2” swing man skills in a Green and White uniform. His debut at his former school was much anticipated by both fan bases, evidenced on one side by an OH pre-game spirit video AJ being kidnapped by:
• the ‘4’8”, 85 lbs.’ Dave Brown
• Cello Playing Rick Deichert and
• Jersey Rippin’ Kristin Bigelow
The HawkSquad’s faithful student section would counter with a greeting of its own during pre-game intros.
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| Welcome back young man. |
But the oddest feel of the night was the sense that Maumee Valley was on top of this long-storied rivalry for the moment, following years of series domination by their neighbors to the north. For once in a blue moon, it was the Green Bears seeking an upset at the Varsity Gym.
It was to be an evening of Trading Places.
Game Summary
HawkNation was out in full force last night to watch their team defeat the Green Bears 51-39 at the Valley in front of a sold-out house and BCSN television audience. With the win, Maumee Valley righted their ship in TAAC play, finishing 2-1 in the three-games-in-seven-nights gauntlet of Gibsonburg, TC and OH. The back to back wins against TC and OH are another milestone for MV, their first such set in many a year.
Ottawa Hills has a big front line, but if you can't get the ball into that group, they can't do much damage. MV used full court pressure and forced 22 OH turnovers during the contest. The defense energized the home team, which jumped to a 13 point half time lead. In the second half, the Hawks played big time Robo-ball, controlling the pace and limiting the Bears' shot opportunities. MV made their free throws down the stretch and iced the game in the last quarter.
Dave Brown was the unsung hero of the second half, controlling the ball for a series of long stretches for which OH had no answer. Opponents simply don't apply more than token pressure against MV this season because of Dave's ball-handling presence.
First Quarter MV 24 – OH 15
Starting five – Dave Brown (’13), Rick Deichert (’12), Jared Sturt (’12), Jonathan Krueger (’12) and Julius Turner (’12)
OH starting five – Ian Trickey, AJ King, RJ Coil, Lucas Janowicz, Geoffrey Beans
Of note, this was not the visitors’ regular starting five. Coach Dave Lindsay went with a Big-guy lineup, hoping that the Coil-Janowicz-King-Beans front would cause problems.
There would indeed be problems caused by this lineup, but they were mostly self-inflicted, relating to OH ball handling.
Jared won the tip and OH fell back into a 2-3 zone, where they stayed for the greatest percentage of the evening. Julius got the ball rolling for the Hawks with a three pointer from the left wing. The Bears were also successful their first time down the court with a Lucas Janowicz cleanup basket. A Hawk miss led to an OH double low post set, and Janowicz scored again to make it 4-3 Bears.
Rick missed a three pointer, but OH was called for a travel. Maumee Valley worked the ball in to Jared Sturt for a layup. MV had problems grabbing a rebound on the next possession and Janowicz scored on an inbounds play for an 8-5 OH lead. Jon Krueger was fouled shooting and made both.
MV put their press on at the 4:41 mark, but Rick fouled AJ King on a two point try which resulted in three free throws-don’t ask. AJ made all three for the 10-7 Green Bear lead, their biggest of the evening. Julius Turner then drove through the middle of the zone and drew a shooting foul; he split the pair.
Into the game came Ben Silverman for OH, leading to a matchup of First Team All-Ohio Golfers, Ben vs. Rick.
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| Hey, isn't that Thad Motta over there to the right? |
The press continued and succeeded – Julius picked off a pass at the OH foul line and drove back in for a floor foul – which they did not convert. More pressing led to another floor foul, but Julius intercepted the pass and scored a pair.
The press started to wear on the Bears. MV trapped AJ in the offensive end, and Julius ripped the ball away – a pass to Jared gave the Hawks their first lead at 12-11. OH was at risk of a 10 second call but was rescued by Coach Lindsay, who called a time out at the 3:13 mark.
Another OH miss led to a Jared Sturt cleanup basket, and OH turned the ball over again on the press. Jared cleaned this up as well.
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| No mom, I'm not getting an earring. |
The 8-0 Hawk run was enough and Coach Lindsay called his second time out to draw up an answer. But the pressure got to the Bears again. Julius swiped the ball away from AJ for another break/layup.
King finally broke the drought for OH with a two pointer, but Julius swished a three ball from his familiar perch on the left wing. AJ created some space for himself and scored, and MV had the ball with 45 seconds left. With the OH student section screaming at the Hawks, they worked it around to Rick at the buzzer which ‘quieted’ the crowd.
The home team was up nine after the first frame
Second Quarter MV 11 – OH 8
Starting the quarter – Jared, Dixon Stoddard, Julius, Rick, Dave
OH had the ball in bounds to start the quarter; a flurry of turnovers ensued capped by AJ’s finest moment of the game, as he blocked a streaking Rick on a layup attempt. The Green end of the crowd went wild, but it didn’t faze the home team. Jared drew a shooting foul and made 1. Lucas Janowicz scored two for OH on a fade away.
The BCSN microphone then proceeded to fall down from the OH basket and a five minute timeout ensued. That’s life in the big leagues.
Geoffrey Beans gained a rare OH press break with a layup, but Rick was left wide open on the right wing and downed a three. Ottawa Hills’ 6’7” sophomore RJ Coil hit long-range two pointer to close it to 28-21. Then after a long but unfruitful MV possession, Rick picked AJ’s pocket at the Bears’ three point arc and went the distance for two.
MV went back to the press, forcing OH into their third time out of the half. Their plans during the break were successful, as Ian Trickey scored for the visitors, cutting it to 30-23. Following unsuccessful offensive sets for both teams, Rick fed off the visiting crowd again and downed a trey from the left side.
Jared then excited the when he blocked Coil at close range. Jon Krueger cashed in with a two pointer from the right hand elbow. That would be it for the half and the Hawks went to the locker room with a 35-23 lead.
Third Quarter OH 12 – MV 7
Starting the quarter – Original starting five
Jon Krueger drew a shooting foul to open the period and made one. Ottawa Hills threw the ball away, but MV did not capitalize. Lucas Janowicz scored first for the Bears with a field goal from the left hand baseline. The Hawks lost the ball and AJ King made it two in a row for the visitors, who had cut the lead to 36-27.
Jared worked hard at the other end, drawing a shooting foul and making both shots. After a series of goose eggs for each team (during which Julius drew his third foul), Rick got out on the break and scored for MV.
The Bears made their best run at the Hawks over the next two minutes, scoring 8 straight points and cutting the lead to 40-35, but Jared steadied the Hawk ship with this two pointer:
OH could not convert at quarter’s end, and it was 42-35 at the end of three. The visitors did not quit, and had closed the gap to seven points with one quarter to play.
Fourth Quarter MV 9 – OH 4
Starting the quarter – Original starting five
MV had the ball in, and Julius got a great look for a three pointer, but didn’t convert.
MV got the ball back and as Rick passed by the bench, the fourth quarter close shave with TC was still fresh in his mind. In battle-cry mode, he yelled out to the coaches ‘We need to attack!’
Julius must have overheard him and drove strong to the hoop, drawing the foul and making the pair. MV aggressively defended with the press, but Jon committed his third foul going for a steal at half court. OH missed the front end of a 1-and-1, letting a chance slip away.
Jon missed for MV, but again OH couldn’t make the Hawks pay. The Bears called a time out at the 6:00 mark and tried their first press on the evening. It got them nowhere and MV ran some weave offense, keeping their distance from the packed 2-3 zone. OH finally tried to match up at the top, and Dave Brown immediately knifed to the basket, drawing the shooting foul and converting after a one minute possession.
Julius committed his fourth foul on the press, and Ian Trickey split the pair. It was MV 46 - OH 36.
Rick Deichert missed a try, but once more OH could not cut into the lead. Another MV miss and Coach Lindsay called time out to prep for the stretch run. Janowicz missed a tough turn-around jumper from the left baseline, and then Ian Trickey fouled Rick – who missed the front end of a 1-and-1. Jon Krueger fouled Trickey and the Bears were in the double bonus. Trickey went 1 for 2.
MV slowed things down considerably. Ottawa Hills tried their best to harass Dave, but this proved to be a frustrating affair for the Bears. After running 40 seconds off the clock, it was Coach Robinson’s turn to call time out at the 2:08 mark.
MV threw the ball away trying to run the clock down, but Jared Sturt redeemed his teammates with a big steal. Another MV turnover, but now at 1:38 the Bears were battling two foes – the Hawks and the rapidly advancing clock.
Geoffrey Beans scored a two pointer, but it took a full 35 seconds in an offensive set. With under a minute to go, the visitors were now forced to foul – first Dave Brown made two, then after another long, unfruitful OH offensive possession Rick split another pair. Another forced Green Bear foul Rick made two more to finish it off.
The Hawks had learned their lesson at Toledo Christian, this time convincingly closing out a victory against a big rival, 50-39.
Final Game Thoughts
You definitely got the feeling in this game that OH considered themselves to be the underdog this year – and they played like a talented, but very young team. OH has only one Senior in their primary rotation. They will get better as the season goes on and should be one of the favorites in the pre-season 2012-13 TAAC coaches’ poll.
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| Don't worry Mortimer, it's only basketball. |
But for this season at least, when one things about the TAAC, it’s the Hawks on top and the Bears needing to work things out.
Potpourri
The Game was broadcast on BCSN (not in HD)…The win was the Hawks' first over their TAAC rivals at the Varsity Gym in at least five years…another sellout for the Hawks…it was AJ mania on both sides, as the Hawk cheering section donned ‘AJ masks” for the intro…
Scoring
And now for the happy totals. MV's trio of Rick Deichert, Julius Turner and Jared Sturt combined for 42 points on the evening. Each had their hot streaks, especially Julius in the first quarter, then Rick in the second. Rick led the way with 16; Julius and Jared each had 13 on the night.
Also scoring for the Hawks were Jon Krueger with 5 and Dave Brown with four, all big free throws in the fourth quarter.
Next up
The Hawks head out of conference, traveling southwest for a matchup with the Division III Tigers of Liberty Center.
Saturday, January 21, 2012
AJ King trade update; Fish runaway leader for TAAC GM of the year
Again, the Toledo Blade breaks the story of two additional players picked up in the AJK deal.
MV got points from Dave Beown and Nick Frasso last night. How does Mr. Fish do it?
MV got points from Dave Beown and Nick Frasso last night. How does Mr. Fish do it?
MV 67 - Northwood 43 Insightful Internet Commentary
Well, well, well if it isn't our two unofficial Anchormen Jeremy Anderson bringing the seriosity and (shockingly) Thad Woodard bringing the levity. Also joining the fray are India Bedi and Lucas Isaza.
Be sure to watch 'till the end for the finals week kickoff Dance Partaaay!!!!
Be sure to watch 'till the end for the finals week kickoff Dance Partaaay!!!!
Friday, January 20, 2012
Maumee Valley 67 - Northwood 43 at the Varsity Gym - Quick Story
Maumee Valley used a big first and fourth quarter to outgun the Northwood Rangers tonight 67 - 43. The game was closer than the score indicated, as Northwood pulled to under 10 and had the ball early in the third quarter. The guests chose to cut off the inside passing lanes to Jared with a tight 2-3 zone all evening and the Hawk outside shots and free throws were not falling until later in the game.
The Blue and White carried only a 13 point lead into the fourth quarter, but doubled up Northwood 22 - 11 in the final frame. Pressure defense and drives to the basket won out in the end for Maumee Valley.
Hats off to Northwood coach John Bryan, who is going with a youth movement and teaching his young team to be aggressive around the basket. Northwood was also a stellar eight-for-eight from the free throw line this evening. Their progress is reminicient of that shown by both Cardinal Stritch and Emmauel Christian last year. The Rangers will be a tough out the remainder of this season and into 2012-13.
Scoring this evening for the Hawks - Julius Turner had 18, followed closely by Rick Deichert with 17. Jared Sturt, sharing the key tonight with 3 of his closest Northwood friends, was held to 8. Several other HawkSquad members scored this evening - Jon Krueger and Dixon Stoddard each had 6, Thad Woodard had 4, Caleb Willhight and Nick 'Watch for me on the BCSN Sports Report' Frasco had 3 and Dave Brown tossed in a field goal while otherwise running the show.
Next up for the Hawks - it's finals week!!!! Get those books out gentlemen. Your average NBA player's career only lasts 3 years, and you guys aren't your average NBA players (yet).
Also, let the anticipation build for the TAAC slugfest at Gibsonburg coming up Tuesday January 31, 2012. Make your plans now to drive east for the game of the year.
The Blue and White carried only a 13 point lead into the fourth quarter, but doubled up Northwood 22 - 11 in the final frame. Pressure defense and drives to the basket won out in the end for Maumee Valley.
Hats off to Northwood coach John Bryan, who is going with a youth movement and teaching his young team to be aggressive around the basket. Northwood was also a stellar eight-for-eight from the free throw line this evening. Their progress is reminicient of that shown by both Cardinal Stritch and Emmauel Christian last year. The Rangers will be a tough out the remainder of this season and into 2012-13.
Scoring this evening for the Hawks - Julius Turner had 18, followed closely by Rick Deichert with 17. Jared Sturt, sharing the key tonight with 3 of his closest Northwood friends, was held to 8. Several other HawkSquad members scored this evening - Jon Krueger and Dixon Stoddard each had 6, Thad Woodard had 4, Caleb Willhight and Nick 'Watch for me on the BCSN Sports Report' Frasco had 3 and Dave Brown tossed in a field goal while otherwise running the show.
Next up for the Hawks - it's finals week!!!! Get those books out gentlemen. Your average NBA player's career only lasts 3 years, and you guys aren't your average NBA players (yet).
Also, let the anticipation build for the TAAC slugfest at Gibsonburg coming up Tuesday January 31, 2012. Make your plans now to drive east for the game of the year.
Northwood Preview
Fast facts
Opponent: Northwood
Enrollment (9-12): 308
Division/League: D-IV / TAAC
Team Nickname: Rangers
From the Toledo Blade TAAC Preview
Coach: John Bryan, second season
Last season: 3-18, 2-10 TAAC
This season: 2-9, 1-4
Top players: Seniors Ricky Hartley, 6-1, W; Garrett Reighard, 6-1, W; John Willey, 5-9, G; Garrett Mallett, 5-10, G. Junior Tyler Williams, 6-0, W.
Outlook: Bryan has three starters along with seven letter winners back.
That should give the Rangers good overall depth, according to Bryan.
Hartley averaged 8.9 points and 4.5 rebounds per game to earn all-district honorable mention.
A lack of size could be a potential area of weakness.
"We're definitely hoping for improvement in what might be the strongest Division IV conference in the state," Davie said. "I think on any given night anybody can get anybody."
Game notes: Northwood is the last TAAC opponent yet to be faced by the Hawks…MV won both games last year against the Rangers...the Rangers top performers are Evan Perkins (10th in TAAC scoring - 13.6 ppg) and Tyler Williams (13th in scoring - 13.2 ppg)...this is the last game for the Hawks for ten days while they sweat it out over finals...next up, a ho-hum game - it's only the second contest against TAAC leader Gibsonburg.
Opponent: Northwood
Enrollment (9-12): 308
Division/League: D-IV / TAAC
Team Nickname: Rangers
From the Toledo Blade TAAC Preview
Coach: John Bryan, second season
Last season: 3-18, 2-10 TAAC
This season: 2-9, 1-4
Top players: Seniors Ricky Hartley, 6-1, W; Garrett Reighard, 6-1, W; John Willey, 5-9, G; Garrett Mallett, 5-10, G. Junior Tyler Williams, 6-0, W.
Outlook: Bryan has three starters along with seven letter winners back.
That should give the Rangers good overall depth, according to Bryan.
Hartley averaged 8.9 points and 4.5 rebounds per game to earn all-district honorable mention.
A lack of size could be a potential area of weakness.
"We're definitely hoping for improvement in what might be the strongest Division IV conference in the state," Davie said. "I think on any given night anybody can get anybody."
Game notes: Northwood is the last TAAC opponent yet to be faced by the Hawks…MV won both games last year against the Rangers...the Rangers top performers are Evan Perkins (10th in TAAC scoring - 13.6 ppg) and Tyler Williams (13th in scoring - 13.2 ppg)...this is the last game for the Hawks for ten days while they sweat it out over finals...next up, a ho-hum game - it's only the second contest against TAAC leader Gibsonburg.
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