SB Nation - Kenny Kadji

BtB 2009-10 Southeastern Conference Preview

Chris Dobbertean — Sun, 11 Oct 2009 21:27:31 -0000

During the two weeks before Selection Sunday last March, I frequently heard these words (or something close) in conversation, "The SEC is going to get more than two or three bids to the Tourney. How can we not? We're the SEC." Of course, it took another surprising run through the SEC Tournament by a team nicknamed the Bulldogs to keep the Southeastern Conference from becoming (gasp) a two bid league. But Mississippi State became the league's second straight surprise auto bid winner. However, just like Georgia in 2008, the boys from Starkville also lost in the first round after getting a low seed.

But it's not like the two SEC teams who earned at-large bids did much better. Ninth seeded Tennessee fell to Oklahoma State in a tight first round contest, while eighth seeded LSU reached round two, where they were outclassed by North Carolina. Kentucky, Florida, Auburn, and South Carolina all ended up in the NIT, where none of the four managed to make it to New York. Vanderbilt won 19 games and didn't even get a postseason bid. All in all, it was a disappointing 2008-09 for a conference used to postseason success.

The good news for the SEC is that the league should be far better this year, thanks to a couple of major coaching hires (as explained in my Coaching Carousel column) and an infusion of new talent (some of whom are listed in my All-Transfer and All-Freshman team columns). But there's a lot more going on in the league than what happened in Lexington and Tuscaloosa this offseason, which I'll explain after the jump.

Let's first take a look at last season's SEC standings.

Southeastern Conference Standings

(updated 3.25.2009 at 10:42 PM EDT)

East	Conf		Overall
	W	L	W	L
South Carolina Gamecocks	10	6	21	10
Tennessee Volunteers	10	6	21	13
Florida Gators	9	7	25	11
Kentucky Wildcats	8	8	22	14
Vanderbilt Commodores	8	8	19	12
Georgia Bulldogs	3	13	12	20

West	Conf		Overall
	W	L	W	L
LSU Tigers	13	3	27	8
Auburn Tigers	10	6	24	12
Mississippi St. Bulldogs	9	7	23	13
Alabama Crimson Tide	7	9	18	14
Mississippi Rebels	7	9	16	15
Arkansas Razorbacks	2	14	14	16

Now, here are my picks for 2009-10, presented in reverse order. If a school's name appears in red, that's a link to its SBNation site. You can go there for more detailed analysis throughout the season.

West Division

Auburn (last NCAA: 2003) The Tigers fell to Baylor in the NIT quarterfinals last season, a disappointing end to a good season that could've ended in the NCAA Tournament with a marquee win or two. It's going to take a lot for Jeff Lebo's team to reach that level of success this season. Even with the graduation of Rasheem Barrett (9.9 ppg) and Quantez Robertson (6.0 ppg, 3.2 apg), DeWayne Reed (13.2 ppg, 3.7 apg) and Tay Waller (12.1 ppg) anchor a solid backcourt that will give the opposition fits. However, Korvotney Barber and his contributions of nearly 13 points and 10 rebounds a game will be severely missed in the frontcourt, even in Lebo's guard-oriented system. Seniors Brendan Knox and Johnnie Lett will have to step up to fill the void left by Barber's departure, and freshmen Rob Chubb and Ty Armstrong can expect to see playing time as well. Junior college transfer Kenny Gabriel should also see significant time, as he can be a true inside/outside threat for Auburn.

LSU (last NCAA: 2009) Expect the Tigers, last year's SEC regular season champs, to take a step back after the loss of three key starters. F Marcus Thornton and his 21 points per game are gone, so is C Chris Johnson, and the team's heart and soul, PG Garrett Temple. However, LSU still has Tasmin Mitchell, who averaged 16.3 points and 7.2 rebounds last season, while spending time at both small forward and power forward. Guard Bo Spencer is the other returning starter. He's a good shooter (averaging 11.4 ppg while shooting 40% from beyond the arc), but is coming off wrist surgery. Beyond those two, head coach Trent Johnson has his work cut out for him, as none of the other returnees averaged more than 2 points per contest. Expect the newcomers, like G Aaron Dotson (coming off a patellar tendon injury) and Fs Eddie Ludwig and Garrett Green (a medical redshirt last year), to see significant time during the rebuilding process.

Arkansas (last NCAA: 2008) It hasn't been the greatest of offseasons in Fayetteville, where head coach John Pelphrey will suspend at least one player after an offseason rape investigation that resulted in no charges. The possibility of suspensions will make the Razorbacks task of recovering from last season a bit more difficult. The Hogs were in full rebuilding mode last year, but managed to get off to a 12-1 start, featuring wins over regional rivals Oklahoma and Texas. It didn't last, and Arkansas finished bottom of the SEC West with a ghastly 2-14 record. This season, the Razorbacks will again roll out a three-guard lineup in their search for more consistency. That quest starts at point guard, where sophomore Courtney Fortson did a great job of distributing the ball (nearly 6 assists per game), while turning it over far too often (4.4 per game). Rotnei Clark led the nation's freshmen in three point shooting (39.3%), and Stefan Welsh contributed 11.5 oints per game. PF Michael Washington decided to stay in school, which means the Hogs keep their leading scorer (15.5) and conference-leading rebounder (9.8). The biggest reason Arkansas is this low is depth, with only six returning players from last season, Pelphrey will need a lot out of his newcomers to move up the SEC ladder.

Alabama (last NCAA: 2006) Bama alum Mark Gottfried resigned as head coach last January, when it was clear that the Tide would spend a third straight year outside of the NCAAs. Anthony Grant left a good gig at VCU to take the head job, and he's going to try to implement a more up-tempo style in Tuscaloosa. Alabama's biggest issue over the past few seasons has been inconsistent point guard play, especially with Ronald Steele's injuries and eventual departure from the program. Senior Mikhail Torrance (10 ppg, 2.3 apg) moved to the 1 slot after Steele left the program and performed well, though he's more of a natural shooting guard. As Grant implements his offense, watch for 5-9 Anthony Brock and Andrew Steele, Ronald's brother, to get time at the point, so Torrance can move over to his natural position. In the frontcourt, Grant has two 6-9 guys who will need to step it up. JaMychal Green had a decent freshman season, but will need to better his averages of 10.6 ppg and 7.6 rpg. Justin Knox, who averaged 5.7 ppg and 5.1 rpg, should be able to increase both those numbers with more time on the court.

Mississippi (last NCAA: 2002) Ole Miss head coach Andy Kennedy made headlines for all the wrong reasons last season, when he was arrested for allegedly assaulting a cab driver the night before the Rebels faced his former employer, Cincinnati, in the SEC/Big East Invitational. Things only got worse from there, as Miss lost All-SEC guard Chris Warren to a knee injury during that outing. Add in the fact that the Rebels had already lost Eniel Polynice and Trevor Gaskins to injuries, and it's amazing that they managed 16 wins last year. This season, all three guards are back, making the loss of Florida transfer David Huertas almost inconsequential. Zach Graham, the team's best three point shooter, is also back, giving the Rebels perhaps the best backcourt in the league. Kennedy's frontcourt isn't quite as strong. Sophomore Murphy Holloway will have to improve on his 8.4 points and 6.6 boards per game, while 6-8 freshman Reginald Bucker and 6-9 JC transfer DeAngelo Riley will have to contribute immediately. The fact the Rebels don't quite have the inside force to match Miss State's Varnado means they should finish behind their in-state rivals in the standings.

Mississippi State (last NCAA: 2009) Rick Stansbury recruited Renardo Sidney to provide some support for C Jarvis Varnado inside. However, it doesn't look like the NCAA is going to rule Sidney eligible. Stansbury also got a commitment from 7-2 Sudanese C John Riek, who was finally ruled eligible, but will have to sit out the first 9 games of the season. That means Varnado, who fell ill at one point this summer, will likely see some time as the lone big man on the court if Stansbury runs out a four-guard offense, as he did frequently last season. When you have guards like Dee Bost, Ravern Johnson, Barry Stewart, and Phil Turner who can shoot the three well, that offensive strategy isn't a bad idea. However, with the development of 6-8 Fs Kodi Augustus and Romero Osby (and Riek's eventual eligibility), you can expect to see Varnado get far more frontcourt help. Additionally, Varnado only needs 19 blocks to pass Shaquille O'Neal as the SEC's all-time leader in that category (though Shaq did it in fewer games).

East Division

Georgia (last NCAA: 2008) For some reason, Mark Fox decided to leave a Nevada program he (along with LSU head man Trent Johnson) made into a national name. Fox now replaces Dennis Felton at the helm of a Georgia program that has never fully recovered from the Jim Harrick era, which is now six years in the past. After the graduation of G/F Terrance Woodbury (14.0 ppg), Fox is left with only one double-digit scorer from last season. However, 6-9 F Howard Thompkins is a pretty good player to have on your roster. Thompkins averaged 12.6 points and 7.4 boards per game, and should be even better after an offseason spent on the USA's Under-19 World Championship-winning team. In the backcourt, Dustin Ware should start at point guard, as he averaged 7.2 points and 3.4 dimes per game in 2008-09. After that, Fox has a lot of decisions to make, and that means the Bulldogs will probably be rooted to the bottom of the SEC standings yet again.

South Carolina (last NCAA: 2004) In Darrin Horn's first year at the helm, the Gamecocks managed to tie Tennessee atop the SEC East. Even though they only lost guard Zam Fredrick and his 15.5 points per game, Carolina probably won't reach such heights this season. That's not to say that the Gamecocks won't manage to get back to the NCAAs, something they failed to do last year. Thanks to the return of G Devan Downey (19.8 ppg, 4.5 apg, SEC leading 89 steals) and F Dominique Archie (10.9 ppg, 6.4 rpg), the Gamecocks still have some real star power in the lineup. Returning starters Mike Holmes (10.8 ppg, 7.7 rpg) and Sam Muldrow (5.6 ppg, 5.3 rpg) should provide even more help to Archie in the frontcourt this season, while JC transfer Johndre Jefferson will be expected to spend time at both small and power forward. In the backcourt, Evaldas Baniulis, after averaging a bit more than 6 points a game while shooting 48 percent from behind the arc, is expected to take a more active role in the offense with the graduation of Fredrick, as is 6-5 swingman Lakeem Jackson, a heralded recruit from Charlotte.

Florida (last NCAA: 2007) Has it really been over two years since the Gators last featured in an NCAA Tournament game? While the days of back-to-back championships may be in the rear-view mirror, Billy Donovan's latest group has the chance to finally get off the bubble. Georgetown transfer Vernon Macklin will be eligible this season, and he'll slide into the center position. That will allow Alex Tyus to move back to his natural position, power forward, which will allow Dan Werner to move to small forward. Kenny Kadji should be better in his sophomore year as well, giving the Gators more of a presence inside. More consistency is expected out of swingman Chandler Parsons, whose performances alternate between brilliant and frustrating. In the backcourt, Erving Walker (10.1 ppg, 2.4 apg) will lead the offense after Nick Calathes' departure for Greece. Israeli newcomer Nimrod Tishman could also see time at the point if the NCAA rules him eligible. Impact freshman Kenny Boynton will start at shooting guard. He's expected to be the Gators new three-point threat, though he can also really drive to the hoop.

Vanderbilt (last NCAA: 2008) The Commodores sat at home last postseason, despite finishing the regular season with 7 wins in their last 10. Vandy shouldn't be so unlucky this season. Chemistry should be good, as head coach Kevin Stallings gave up a $100,000 raise so the team could take a scheduled trip to Australia, home country of star C A.J. Ogilvy. Ogilvy averaged 15.4 points and 7.1 rebounds per game, and those numbers should improve if he stays healthier this season. The 'Dores frontcourt boasts an international flavor beyond their Aussie star with Swede Jeffery Taylor (12.2 ppg. 6.2 rpg) a fixture at small forward, 6-9 Cameroonian PF Steve Tchiengang (3.6 ppg, 3.2 rpg) expected to spend more time in the 4 spot, and 6-11 Nigerian C Festus Ezeli (3.8 ppg. 2.6 rpg) expected to both backup and spend time on the floor with Ogilvy. 6-7 Andre Walker may also return to the starting lineup, after suffering an ACL tear early last season. The backcourt may be more US-centric, but it's still talented. Jermaine Beal (12.5 ppg, 3.2 apg) amd Brad Tinsley (11.0 ppg, 2.8 apg) will take turns running the offense, but 6-4 John Jenkins, the USA's highest scoring high school player last season, will get plenty of opportunities to showcase his inside/outside game. Even if he only manages 25 percent of his senior year average, Jenkins should provide plenty of scoring punch for the Commodores.

Tennessee (last NCAA: 2009) The Volunteers return all five starters in their quest to improve on last year's NCAA first round exit. The best news for the Vols this offseason was Tyler Smith's decision to skip the NBA Draft and return for his senior season. Bruce Pearl is glad he doesn't have to replace Smith's 17.4 points and 5.8 rebounds per game. Wayne Chism (13.7 ppg, 8 rpg) will continue to be a force inside, while 6-10 C Brian Williams will need to improve his scoring (5 ppg) to match his rebounding (5.6 rpg). Bobby Maze (8.2 ppg, 3.2 apg) will run the offense, while J.P. Prince and Scotty Hopson, who were forces at both ends of the floor last year, are expected to continue their strong two-way play. Cameron Tatum (7.6 ppg) and Renaldo Woolridge, son of former NBA star Orlando, are going to be Bruce Pearl's key swingmen this season.. Woolridge, who only managed 2.6 points in a little more than 8 minutes a contest, should be improved in his sophomore season. The Vols only personnel loss is a sad story, as Nigerian F Emmanuel Negedu, as he suffered a sudden cardiac arrest last month.

Kentucky (last NCAA: 2008) During my Season Preview series, I've written a fair amount about John Calipari's arrival in Lexington and his stellar recruiting class. Patrick Patterson (17.9 ppg, 9.3 rpg) will lead a strong frontcourt that already features senior Perry Stevenson (7.8 ppg, 5.9 rpg), and will be bolstered by the arrival of the 6-11 DeMarcus Cousins and 6-10 Daniel Orton, two highly coveted recruits. And the backcourt will feature the most highly coveted recruit for this season, 6-4 point guard John Wall, who will be responsible for running Calipari's dribble drive offense. If the chemistry works, the Wildcats will quickly be on their way, and the blue half of the Commonwealth will quickly forget about the Gillispie period.

I'm picking Kentucky to win the overall SEC title, so they'll take the league's auto bid in my 2009-10 Final Preseason Bracket, which I will release on November 9. To wrap up this preview, here is my preseason All-SEC team, featuring the best returning players from last season.

Preseason All-SEC Team

Player of the Year: Tyler Smith, 6-7 F, Sr. (Tennessee)

Remainder of the Team
Devan Downey, 5-9 G, Sr. (South Carolina)
Tasmin Mitchell, 6-7 F, Sr. (LSU)
Patrick Patterson, 6-9 F, Jr. (Kentucky)
Jarvis Varnado, 6-9 F/C, Sr. (Mississippi State)

Poll

Who is your pick to win the SEC this season?

Alabama

9 votes

Arkansas

9 votes

Auburn

3 votes

Florida

14 votes

Georgia

2 votes

Kentucky

213 votes

LSU

3 votes

Ole Miss

7 votes

Mississippi State

57 votes

South Carolina

5 votes

Tennessee

68 votes

Vanderbilt

17 votes

407 votes | Poll has closed

Gators End Season With Same Problems

mlmintampa — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 06:45:05 -0000

It was really no different than previous Gator losses this season. But Florida's 71-62 loss to Penn State in the NIT Quarterfinals ended the Gators' season. In UF's 11 losses, there are been several themes. Among them; a shorthanded lineup, poor shooting, and being shoved around by a tougher team. All of those factors killed UF last night and every night.

Next season, Florida should have Kenny Kadji (out with a concussion Tuesday), Eloy Vargas (out with fitness), Allan Chaney (out with suspension), Adam Allen (out with a knee) and Vernon Macklin (out with a transfer) all on opening night. Florida's front court consisted of Alex Tyus and two guys who never belonged there; Dan Werner and Chandler Parsons. Maybe that is what Billy Donovan meant after saying UF overachieved. He realizes the quality of his bigs never matched Calathes-Hodge-Walker. The man won two National Championships with a front line of three first round draft picks. He knows what the recipe is, but doesn't have the ingredients.

It will be decision time now for Nick Calathes. He can roll the dice and enter the draft or roll the dice and hope Florida's big men will contribute next season. He can only go as far as the other four guys on the floor.

This team finished one game worse than last year's team that got to Madison Square Garden. Hopefully, next year's team won't finish the same way.

Nick Calathes' Last Stand?

mlmintampa — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 07:01:43 -0000

The Gators are concerned with making the NCAA Tournament, but the elephant in the room is wearing a 33 jersey.

It does not matter much if the Gators make the tournament this year and die quickly. The common thought is that next season, UF will return to the caliber of play that this program expects. With Georgetown transfer Vernon Macklin entering the lineup with an older Alex Tyus and Kenny Kadji, UF will have a front line to match Nick Calathes and Erving Walker. But is there any guarantee Calathes will be there?

Last summer, Calathes worked out with the Greek National Team and received offers to play professionally there. In February, ESPN's Chad Ford said this about Calathes;

He's not the quickest guy nor is he a great on-the-ball defender -- and he'll probably never be -- but I've heard more and more NBA scouts talking about him as a steal in the late first round or early second round if he declares.

That backhanded compliment came at the end of February. Since then, Calathes has broken down a bit (averaging 12 points, had 7 turnovers against Kentucky) but he is finding ways to contribute (averaging 6 assists per game). He was also named to the SEC Coaches' All-SEC Team.

Without Calathes, Florida would still be hoping for a big SEC Tournament run. To qualify for the NIT. He has carried a team that really has no business being on the bubble. Calathes is not just playing for the Gators anymore. He is playing for himself because Calathes knows if he fails, Florida loses.

Responding to that pressure is what turns a 2010 first round pick into a 2009 first round pick. No matter what happens, Florida needs Calathes to put the team on his back for at least three games to secure a spot in the brackets. If that happens, don't be surprised if Calathes has had enough and decides to go pro.

Kentucky Wildcats @ Florida: Gameday Breakdown

Ken Howlett — Sat, 07 Mar 2009 12:24:02 -0000

A regular season once filled with promise and optimism comes to a close today as the 'Cats take on their bitter rivals, the Florida Gators. The 2:00 EST (CBS) contest will determine the 3rd and 4th place finishers in the SEC East. If UK pulls out the road victory, by virtue of their 3rd place finish, they would meet up with the Arkansas Razorbacks on Thursday in the SEC Tournament. If Kentucky loses today, they most likely would then play Alabama in an opening round SEC Tourney tilt.

My, how the recently and once-mighty, have fallen. UK, losers of three games in a row (and seven of their last 10), and Florida, also losers of three in a row (and six of nine), will not be playing for banners, but rather their NCAA Tournament lives. Both teams, clinging to the slightest of hope ... hope that they won't be slighted on Selection Sunday.

I wrote in my Georgia pre-game that if the 'Cats lost to the Dawgs their NCAA hopes went with the wind, but Bracketology guru Joe Lunardi disagrees, so I won't give up until I fail to hear UK's name called out by Jim Nantz ... but, hey, that's just me.

So, it's on to the Gators.

Florida Personnel

Nick Calathes: 6'6" 194 lb sophomore guard -- On the season Calathes is averaging 18.2 points (6th in the SEC), 6.4 assists (1st in the SEC), 5.3 rebounds, and 2.0 steals per game (2nd in the SEC). He's shooting 49.6% from the field (8th in the SEC), 41.3% from beyond the arc (64-155), and 71.0% from the free throw line.

In SEC play he's averaging 19.3 points, 6.1 assist, 6.1 rebounds and 1.9 steals per game. He's shooting 47.7% from the floor, 43.2% from the three-point line (38-88), and 71.3% from the free throw line -- Over his last four games Calathes is averaging 14.3 points per game (versus Miss. St. last game, he scored only 11 points). In that span he's shooting only 40.4% from the field. Over the last eight games he's shooting only 35.7% from the three-point line. Since recording 14 steals in a four game stretch, in his last two games Calathes has zero steals. Calathes is the only player in the country who is averaging at least 15.0 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 6.0 assists per game. He also leads the SEC is A/TO ratio at 2.04. Last time out versus UK Calathes scored a season high 33 points on 10-20 shooting (2-7 threes), grabbed seven rebounds, dished out three assists, had two steals and two turnovers. The 20 shots he took represents a season high.

Alex Tyus: 6'8" 220 lb sophomore forward -- On the year Tyus is averaging 12.4 points and 6.0 rebounds per game (2.0 off. reb). He's shooting 59.5% from the field (2nd in the SEC), and 65.0% from the free throw line.

In league play he's averaging 11.9 points and 5.7 rebounds per game (1.9 off. reb). He's shooting 54.3% from the floor, and 63.4% from the charity stripe -- Tyus has scored in double-digits in eight of his last 10 games. He's made only four of is last 10 free throw attempts. His last double-digit rebound game was January 14 versus Auburn, when he had 14. Tyus has committed zero turnovers his last two games. Against UK on February 10, he scored 14 points on 7-11 shooting, grabbed only two rebounds, but recorded three blocks (season high), two steals and one assist. The two rebounds he nabbed were the fewest he's had in a game this year (along with the Longwood, and Toledo games).

Chandler Parsons: 6'9" 213 lb sophomore forward -- Parsons is averaging 9.9 points, 5.7 rebounds, 1.8 assists, and 1.2 steals per game, on the year. He shoots 47.1% from the floor, 30.3% from the thee-point line (33-109), and 55.7% from the free throw line.

In conference play he's averaging 11.1 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 1.7 assists per game. He shooting an even 50.0% from the field, 32.1% from behind the arc (18-56), and 47.1% from the free throw line -- Since making 7-8 threes versus Vandy on January 25, Parsons has made only 7-30 (23.3%) in his last 10 games. He's taken only one free throw in his last three games. Since recording three blocks versus South Carolina on February 3, in the seven games since, he's blocked only one shot. In Florida's last game, versus Mississippi State, Parsons played only 17 minutes. Earlier versus UK, Parsons played 24 minutes, scored two points on 0-4 shooting (0-1 threes), grabbed six rebounds, and dished out one assist.

Erving Walker: 5'8" 161 lb freshman guard -- For the year, Walker is averaging 9.8 points, 2.4 assists and 1.6 rebounds per game. He's making 43.4% of his shots, 41.4% of his three-point attempts (55-133), and 83.1% of his free throws.

In SEC play he's averaging 10.9 points, 2.4 assists and 1.6 rebounds per game. He's shooting 43.2% from the field, 43.2% from beyond the arc (32-74), and 82.9% from the free throw line -- Wednesday versus Mississippi State Walker made only 1-6 threes. In the Brooklyn natives four previous games he made 13-27 trey attempts (48.1). He's recorded only one steal in his last five games. Since committing five turnovers versus South Carolina on January 21, he's averaged only 1.0 turnovers in his last 11 games. He made 4-8 three-point attempts last Saturday against Tennessee. Versus UK last time out Walker played 27 minutes, scored seven points on 2-6 shooting (1-2 threes), two rebounds, one assist one steal and two turnovers.

Dan Werner: 6'8" 230 lb junior forward -- Werner is averaging 8.8 points, 4.5 rebounds, 2.3 assists, and 1.1 steals per game. He's shooting 43.9% from the floor, 36.0% from the three-point line (40-111), and 76.3% from the free throw line.

In league play he's averaging 7.3 points, 4.1 rebounds, 2.3 assists, and 1.3 steals per game. Werner is shooting 36.9% from the floor, 37.5% from behind the arc, and 86.7% from the free throw line -- Werner hasn't taken a free throw in seven games. He's made 10 of his last 21 three-point attempts. He's recorded zero steals in his last three games. He's averaging 6.7 rebounds over his last three games. In the earlier game versus UK, he scored four points, and had three rebounds, steals and turnovers.

Walter Hodge: 6'0" 170 lb senior guard -- Hodge is averaging 8.7 points, 2.3 assists, and 1.5 rebounds per game. He's shooting 45.3% from the floor, 39.2% from the three-point line (51-130), and 80.6% from the charity stripe.

In SEC play he's averaging 9.8 points, 2.3 assists, 1.4 rebounds, and 1.1 steals per game. He's shooting 45.2% from the field, 36.6% from the three-point line (26-71), and 81.0% from the free throw line -- Since making only one of nine threes versus Alabama on February 18, Hodge has made 10-24 in his last four games (41.7%). He is averaging 13.8 points per game over his last six. In that span he's made 31-60 field goal attempts (51.7%). The diminutive guard has grabbed nine offensive rebounds in his last six games (the previous eight games he had zero). After recording only one steal in his previous five games, versus Mississippi State on Wednesday he had three steals. He committed four turnovers versus Vandy, in the three games since he has zero miscues. Earlier versus UK, Hodge played 20 minutes, scored two points on 1-5 shooting (0-1 threes), he also had three assists, two steals and two turnovers.

Kenny Kadji: 6'10" 245 lb freshman F/C -- Kadji is averaging 4.7 points, and 2.8 rebounds per game. He's shooting 48.7% from the field, and 51.2% from the free throw line (22-43).

In conference play he's averaging 4.5 points, 3.1 rebounds, and .9 blocks per game. He's making 48.2% of his shots, and 59.1% of his free throws. Kadji had eight rebounds in only 14 minutes versus Alabama on February 18. He recorded four blocks versus Vanderbilt on February 21. He hasn't scored in double-figures since netting 10 points versus Arkansas back in January (which was also the most minutes he's played all year, 23). He's made only 1-5 shots in his last three games, after making 9-18 in the three previous contests. Versus UK last time out he played 12 minutes and scored one point, grabbed three rebounds, and had one block and one turnover.

Ray Shipman: 6'5" 212 lb freshman G/F -- Shipman is averaging 3.8 points, and 2.2 rebounds per game. He's shooting 50.0% from the floor, 18.8% from beyond the arc (3-16), and 67.6% from the charity stripe.

In league play he averages 2.9 points and 1.4 rebounds per game. He's making 57.1% of his shots, 40.0% of his threes (2-5), and 71.4% of his free throws -- Versus Mississippi State Wednesday night, he played a season high 24 minutes. He hasn't recorded an offensive rebound since January 31 (an eight game span). He's made 7-11 field goal attempts over his last four games. Versus UK last time out he played 16 minutes, scored two points (1-1 FG's) and grabbed two rebounds.

Florida Team Stats -- Overall (SEC rank in parenthesis)

Florida Opponents

Points Per Game -- 78.8 (2) 68.7 (5)

Field Goal% -- 48.4 (t1) 44.8 (12)

Free Throw% -- 68.5 (7) 62.4 (1)

3-Point% -- 37.3 (2) 36.5 (11)

Rebound Margin -- +.4 (9)

Off. Rebounds Per Game -- 11.1 (9) 11.0 (2)

Off. Rebound% -- 32.6 (10) 32.0 (7)

Def. Rebound% -- 68.0 (7) 67.4 (10)

Assists Per Game -- 17.0 (1) 13.3 (8)

Steals Per Game -- 8.2 (3) 6.2 (4)

Turnovers Per Game -- 12.0 (1) 15.2 (8)

Blocks Per Game -- 2.8 (12) 3.4 (5)

Florida Team Stats -- Conference Games Only (SEC rank in parenthesis)

Florida Opponents

Points Per Game -- 77.9 (1) 73.6 (7)

Field Goal% -- 46.8 (1) 47.0 (11)

Free Throw% -- 69.4 (5) 59.8 (1)

3-Point% -- 38.9 (1) 37.7 (11)

Rebound Margin -- - 2.3

Off. Reb. Per Game -- 9.6 (12) 10.6 (2)

Off. Reb.% -- 27.6 (12) 30.8 (3)

Def. Reb.% -- 69.2 (3) 72.4 (12)

Assists Per Game -- 15.8 (1) 13.3 (6)

Steals Per Game -- 6.9 (7) 6.5 (3)

Turnovers Per Game -- 11.3 (12) 13.5 (5)

Blocks Per Game -- 2.6 (11) 3.8 (5)

UK 68, UF 65

In the February 10 contest, Jodie Meeks was the big 'Cat of the day. With only five seconds remaining the Kentucky junior drilled a three-pointer putting UK up by two. Nick Calathes was then fouled by Kevin Galloway on his three-point try, with less than a second remaining. Calathes missed his first two free throws, and intentionally missed his third, but to no avail.

Meeks led the way for UK with 23 points, Perry Stevenson scored 10. They were the only two Wildcats in double figures. Patrick Patterson, who played 30 minutes, but had to sit the last nine minutes of the game because of a severely sprained ankle, scored only 7. Michael Porter pitched in by making 3-4 trey attempts. As a team UK made seven of 17 three-pointers (41.2%), but only 9-16 free throws (56.3%). Kentucky also committed 19 turnovers; Stevenson led the way with six.

Nick Calathes led Florida with a season high 33 points, and Alex Tyus scored 14. Calathes was 10-20 from the floor, while the rest of the Gators could only muster 12-34 shooting (35.3%). Florida only corralled six offensive boards, for an 18.8% conversion rate. As a team the Gators made only 4-14 three-point tries (28.6%).

Florida guard Walter Hodge missed the final 16 minutes of the game, due to a dead-ball flagrant foul call against him.

For a complete boxscore go here.

Gator Tails

In Florida's three game losing streak they are giving up 80.0 points per game ... Over the last three games Florida is giving up 50.9% field goal shooting ... Over the last three games the Gators are giving up 48.3% three-point shooting ... Florida lost to Georgia, in Athens, 88-86 ... Florida has given up 18 offensive rebounds to Mississippi, 17 to South Carolina, and 15 to Alabama ... The Gators have made over 40.0% of their three-point attempts in 12 games this year ... Gator opponents have shot over 40.0% from beyond the arc a total of 10 times ... Six Gator opponents have made over 50.0% of their three attempts ... Florida has made over 50.0% of their field goal attempts 12 times this season ... In their last three games (all losses) the Gators have made an average of only seven free throws per game, while shooting 55.3% from the line ... Eight of Florida's last nine opponents have shot at least 47.3% from the field ... At home, Florida averages 82.6 points per game in the SEC ... In their last three games the Gators have forced only 25 turnovers (8.3 per game) ... Florida made 13-28 (46.2%) trey attempts versus Tennessee last Saturday, but still lost the game, 79-75 ... They made 15-25 threes (60.0%) versus Vandy on February 17.

CliffsNotes Analysis

Florida and UK are similar in at least one area -- They are both struggling defensively. Both teams give up too many points, and both teams are allergic to guarding the perimeter. The team that amps up their defensive effort will probably win this game.

UK's best chance at that is to bottle-up Calathes, because if he's let loose as he was in Lexington, UK will be staring at a season-ending four game losing streak. I expect to see a rotation of Galloway, Porter, DeAndre Liggins (if he plays), Meeks and maybe a little Ramon Harris attempting to put the kibosh on the Gator's great guard.

But this game boils down to which team perimeter-pass denies the best, mans-up on the shooter, and makes the most three-pointers. UK has lost every game this year in which they are out-scored from the three-point line. I expect that trend to continue.

How much do the 'Cats want it? They've been blasted and questioned, berated and belittled over the last few weeks ... it's time they got mad, and played like a team that wants to win.

There is still pride waiting to be salvaged.

Happy Birthday

I want to wish my sister-in-law, and U of L grad, a HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Thanks for reading, and Go 'Cats!

Perhaps Florida Should Play Vandy Every Weekend

mlmintampa — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 22:31:34 -0000

The Gators most impressive SEC win was at Vandy and their second was today, with a 82-68 win over the Dores. Florida (21-6, 8-4) raced out to a big lead in the first half and kept the distance alive in the second. Five players were in double figures, including Dan Werner's 11 points on 4-4 shooting. Alex Tyus would have joined him, with 10 points and 5-6 shooting, missing perfect with a blown layup. The leading scorer was freshman Erving Walker with 17.

Again, Walker and Calathes were the best players on the floor. While Tyus showed a few offensive moves, freshman Kenny Kadji was the most impressive in the front court. Kadji played only 16 minutes, but had 7 points, 4 blocks and 3 rebounds. He does not have Tyus' offensive game yet, but is a bit better defensively.

Next for the Gators is LSU in Baton Rouge on Tuesday.

Gator Tales

Ken Howlett — Thu, 12 Feb 2009 09:04:10 -0000

For those of you still basking in the after-glow of UK's 68-65 streak-busting victory over the Florida Gators (and I don't blame you), here are some interesting notes and factoids from the game we won't forget anytime soon:

Kevin Galloway entered the second half with 14:58 left to play, and UK down 40-35. The seldom-used junior responded to the call to battle by providing Kentucky with what can only be described as an adrenaline-boost. Here's a breakdown of how his electrifying performance helped lift the 'Cats to victory: 14:30 - Scored on a layup; 14:00 - Defensive rebound; 13:12 - Assist; 12:45 - Offensive rebound; 12:15 - Assist; 11:02 - Scored another deuce; 8:55 - Assist; 7:51 - Defensive rebound; 4:10 - Offensive rebound; 4:07 - Offensive rebound; 3:55 - Assist; 3:06 - Assist; 1:41 - Offensive rebound.

In those 15 minutes, Galloway went "around the world:" He scored four points, dished out five assists and grabbed a second-half team high six rebounds; he also grabbed all of his team-high four offensive rebounds in the second half.
In the final five minutes of the game, UK out-rebounded the Gators 7-2 (on non-dead-ball rebounds).
In the final five minutes of the game, UK out-shot Florida, nine shots to only three.
In the final five minutes of the game, the Gators did take more free throws (11) than UK (4), but they made only one more than the 'Cats (5).
Am I the only one who experienced a heart arrhythmia when Perry Stevenson launched his top-of-the-key-three attempt with UK down four, with only 4:54 remaining (EDITOR'S NOTE -- We love you Perry, but please, never again!).
Florida made zero three-pointers in the second half.
Florida's four made three-pointers were their fewest since making only two versus NC State on January, 3.
The Gators shot only 40.7%, their third lowest percentage of the season -- Florida St. - 39.2%, and Auburn - 39.7%.
UK held Florida to 28.6% (4-14) from the three-point line; on the year the Gators make treys at a 36.8% rate.
The Florida big men (Dan Werner, Alex Tyus, Chandler Parsons, and Kenny Kadji) were a combined 8-22 (36.4%) from the field.
Kentucky grabbed 27 non-dead-ball defensive rebounds, on 32 missed Florida shots. That's an incredible 87.5%.
UK nabbed 11 offensive rebounds on 29 misses (37.9%), conversely, Florida grabbed only 6 offensive boards on 32 misses (18.8%). UK was +13 in the overall rebounding battle, +5 in the offensive rebounding department.
Nine of UK's 11 offensive rebounds came in the second half.
Anybody think offensive rebounds and turnovers don't matter?: In the first half, UK took twenty shots. Why only 20? Because they had 14 turnovers. In the second half UK took 35 shots (they only committed 5 TO's). UK made only 15 of those 35 shots (42.9%), but that poor percentage was mitigated by the fact that UK grabbed 9 offensive rebounds (45.0%).
Perry Stevenson's six turnovers makes two games in a row that one of UK's paint-dwellers have turned the ball over that many times.
Florida outscored UK 19-6 in points off turnovers. Could have cost the 'Cats the game.
UK held Florida's (read; Calathes) assist total down. The Gators averaged 17.7 coming into the game, but managed only nine Tuesday night.
UK dished out 14 assists on 26 made baskets (53.4%).
Jodie Meeks and Patrick Patterson combined to go 10-28 (35.7%) from the field. The rest of the team went 16-27 (59.3%). Time for some kudos for the chronically abused.
UK is the TENTH team to shoot over 45% against Florida this year.
Michael Porter made 3 of 4 three-points tries. And he looked anything but intimidated and/or scared. It's the most treys Porter has made in a game this year. Over the last four games Porter is 5-11 from beyond the arc.
Josh Harrellson went 5-6 from the field, and he made his first three-pointer since making one against Vanderbilt in UK's SEC opener. The St. Louis native sure showed me, and everybody else -- 11 points, three rebounds, and one block, in only 11 minutes.
UK's aggregate reserve totals -- 8-11 from the field (1-1 three-point attempts), and 2-4 free throws, for 19 points. Thirteen rebounds, two steals, 11 assists, five turnovers, and one block.
Florida's aggregate reserve totals -- 3-8 from the field, and 3-4 free throws, for 10 points. Seven rebounds, one steal, one assist, four turnovers, and one block.
During UK's five game win streak to start SEC play, the Wildcats averaged almost 10 fast break points per game. In their three SEC losses, they averaged 3.3. Versus the Gators, the 'Cats reverted to form (we hope), and scored 10 points off the break.
In the final 3:19 of the game, UK outscored Florida 12-3.
Porter and Galloway combined for eight turnovers in 58 total minutes.
Kentucky was 7-17 (41.2%) from beyond the arc. It's the most threes they've made, and the best percentage they have shot, since making 12 trifectas in 19 attempts (63.2%) versus UT on January 13th.
With his performance, Nick Calathes solidified his spot among the four SEC players vying for league Player of the Year honors: Jodie Meeks -- 25.1 points per game, 47.3% field goal shooting, 44.0% three-point shooting, 90.6% free throw shooting, and 1.4 steals per game: Marcus Thornton (LSU) -- 20.0 points per game, five rebounds per game, 49.7% field goal shooting, 73.5% free throw shooting, and 1.7 steals per game: Devan Downey (S. Carolina) -- 20.0 points per game, 4.4 assists per game, 2.9 steals per game, 46.7% field goal shooting, and 75.0% free throw shooting: Nick Calathes (UFA) -- 18.1 points per game, 5.3 rebounds per game, 6.4 assists per game, 51.5% field goal shooting, 71.0% free throw shooting, and 1.9 steals per game.
Jodie Meeks scored 10 of UK's last 12 points. He looked curiously like '08 Ramel Bradley/Joe Crawford, and I liked what I saw. It's something that's been missing over the previous three games; someone to take over the game in the final three or four minutes. It's somehow comforting to know that Meeks can just say, "Give me the ball, and get outta the way." I don't think that's selfish, I think it's a pragmatist's approach to winning.
I'll leave you with some trivia: No going to Jon Scott's Web-site, or your Yearbook, or Media Guide (and Forty, you stay out of this:) -- Which former UK player hold the season record for the highest assist per game average (since 1962)? He's also the only UK player to record over 200 assists in a season (232).

Now, it's on to Arkansas and Paintsville's favorite son, John Pelphrey. Every game is huge ...

Thanks for reading, and Go 'Cats!

Florida @ Kentucky: Pre Game

Truzenzuzex — Tue, 10 Feb 2009 22:31:09 -0000

Comes now an opportunity for Kentucky. Having wasted so many this year, they need to treat this one like the precious jewel it is.

Florida comes into Kentucky with a one-game lead in the East, just one game ahead of Tennessee, South Carolina and Kentucky. A victory by the 'Cats would leave a four-way tie for first in the East, but there are a lot of games yet to be played. Even a loss tonight would not doom UK's chances to win the East, but it would deal them a major setback and would substantially increase the success they would need in the rest of the season to make the NCAA tournament at all.

A victory would turn the Wildcats' fortunes back around for the time being, and place them back in good standing, but still with some work remaining between now and the SEC tournament in Atlanta.

Player Stats: Florida

			FG			3PT			FT			Rebounds			Misc
	G	M	M	A	Pct	M	A	Pct	M	A	Pct	Off	Def	Tot	Ast	TO	Stl	Blk	PF	PPG
Nick Calathes	23	32.5	6.0	11.6	51.5	2.2	5.1	42.7	4.0	5.7	71.0	0.8	4.5	5.3	6.4	3.3	1.9	0.2	1.9	18.1
Alex Tyus	23	25.3	5.3	8.7	61.0	0.0	0.0	0.0	1.8	2.6	68.3	2.0	4.3	6.3	0.7	1.3	0.5	0.7	1.7	12.4
Chandler Parsons	23	26.9	4.0	8.3	48.2	1.2	4.0	30.8	1.2	2.0	57.4	2.2	3.7	5.9	1.9	1.5	1.2	0.4	2.4	10.4
Erving Walker	23	23.2	3.0	6.8	43.9	1.7	4.2	41.2	1.6	2.0	82.2	0.1	1.2	1.3	2.6	1.6	1.0	0.0	1.6	9.3
Dan Werner	23	26.6	3.4	7.4	45.6	1.2	3.5	33.8	1.2	1.6	77.8	1.2	3.3	4.4	2.3	1.6	1.0	0.4	2.7	9.2
Walter Hodge	23	27.6	2.6	5.9	43.4	1.5	3.8	38.6	1.1	1.4	78.1	0.4	1.1	1.6	2.4	1.1	1.3	0.1	2.1	7.7
Kenny Kadji	22	13.1	2.1	4.2	50.5	0.0	0.0	0.0	0.7	1.5	47.1	1.0	1.6	2.6	0.2	0.9	0.2	0.7	1.4	5.0
Ray Shipman	23	13.4	1.5	3.2	47.9	0.1	0.6	15.4	0.9	1.3	69.0	1.0	1.3	2.3	0.7	0.5	0.9	0.1	1.2	4.0
Allan Chaney	22	10.1	1.3	2.8	45.9	0.0	0.2	20.0	0.5	0.9	63.2	1.1	1.1	2.2	0.5	0.8	0.5	0.1	1.5	3.1
Eloy Vargas	6	3.5	0.0	1.3	0.0	0.0	0.3	0.0	0.8	1.3	62.5	0.3	0.5	0.8	0.0	0.3	0.2	0.3	1.0	0.8
Kyle McClanahan	10	3.1	0.2	0.5	40.0	0.1	0.3	33.3	0.1	0.2	50.0	0.0	0.3	0.3	0.2	0.1	0.0	0.0	0.2	0.6
Hudson Fricke	1	1.0	0.0	1.0	0.0	0.0	0.0	0.0	0.0	0.0	0.0	0.0	0.0	0.0	0.0	0.0	0.0	0.0	0.0	0.0
	23	0.0	0.0	0.0	0.0	0.0	0.0	0.0	0.0	0.0	0.0	1.5	1.6	3.1	0.0	0.1	0.0	0.0	0.0	0.0

Player Stats: Kentucky

			FG			3PT			FT			Rebounds			Misc
	G	M	M	A	Pct	M	A	Pct	M	A	Pct	Off	Def	Tot	Ast	TO	Stl	Blk	PF	PPG
Jodie Meeks	23	34.1	7.6	16.0	47.3	3.7	8.3	44.0	6.3	7.0	90.6	0.7	2.8	3.5	1.7	3.0	1.3	0.1	2.0	25.1
Patrick Patterson	23	33.0	7.2	11.0	65.4	0.0	0.0	0.0	3.9	4.8	80.9	2.4	6.8	9.2	2.0	2.1	0.7	2.0	2.6	18.3
Perry Stevenson	23	27.7	2.9	5.1	57.3	0.1	0.4	33.3	2.0	2.6	75.0	2.0	4.7	6.7	1.7	1.9	0.7	2.2	2.7	7.9
DeAndre Liggins	22	20.0	2.0	5.2	38.6	0.5	2.0	22.7	1.6	2.3	70.0	0.2	2.6	2.9	3.3	2.9	1.0	0.5	2.0	6.0
Ramon Harris	18	20.9	1.9	3.5	55.6	0.2	0.9	17.6	1.2	2.2	56.4	0.6	2.4	3.0	1.3	2.2	0.7	0.3	1.5	5.3
Josh Harrellson	22	11.0	1.7	3.7	46.9	0.2	0.5	36.4	1.1	1.5	72.7	1.2	2.0	3.2	0.4	0.9	0.3	0.6	1.1	4.7
Darius Miller	23	20.1	1.4	4.0	35.5	0.3	1.5	20.6	1.0	1.3	76.7	0.9	2.5	3.4	1.9	1.8	0.7	0.7	2.3	4.2
Michael Porter	23	21.8	1.1	3.4	31.6	0.6	2.1	27.1	0.7	0.8	89.5	0.3	1.7	2.0	2.9	2.2	0.8	0.0	1.7	3.5
Landon Slone	10	8.8	0.6	2.0	30.0	0.4	1.4	28.6	0.6	0.6	100.0	0.5	0.9	1.4	0.9	0.2	0.3	0.0	0.6	2.2
A.J. Stewart	20	6.1	0.7	1.6	41.9	0.0	0.1	0.0	0.5	0.5	90.0	0.5	0.7	1.1	0.3	0.7	0.3	0.6	1.3	1.8
Kevin Galloway	18	6.7	0.4	1.1	42.1	0.0	0.1	0.0	0.3	0.7	46.2	0.3	0.9	1.2	1.2	0.8	0.3	0.2	0.4	1.2
Jared Carter	7	3.7	0.1	0.7	20.0	0.0	0.0	0.0	0.6	0.9	66.7	0.3	0.6	0.9	0.4	0.4	0.1	0.6	0.6	0.9
Mark Halsell	6	1.7	0.2	0.2	100.0	0.2	0.2	100.0	0.2	0.3	50.0	0.0	0.2	0.2	0.0	0.0	0.0	0.0	0.0	0.7
Dwight Perry	6	1.8	0.2	0.3	50.0	0.2	0.3	50.0	0.0	0.0	0.0	0.0	0.3	0.3	0.0	0.2	0.0	0.0	0.7	0.5
Mark Krebs	8	2.6	0.1	0.5	25.0	0.1	0.5	25.0	0.0	0.0	0.0	0.0	0.5	0.5	0.3	0.3	0.0	0.0	0.1	0.4
	23	0.0	0.0	0.0	0.0	0.0	0.0	0.0	0.0	0.0	0.0	1.6	1.4	3.0	0.0	0.2	0.0	0.0	0.1	0.0

Team Stats Comparison (Courtesy of Kenpom.com)

	Kentucky		Florida
Category	Offense	Defense	Offense	Defense	D-I Avg
Adj. Efficiency:	107.1 [86]	88.4 [14]	114.8 [20]	95.6 [72]	100.7
Adj. Tempo:	69.7 [58]		67.5 [141]		66.9
Four Factors
Effective FG%:	54.2 [16]	43.1 [9]	55.8 [7]	49.3 [179]	48.9
Turnover %:	24.5 [326]	20.2 [196]	18.3 [44]	22.7 [71]	20.8
Off. Reb. %:	34.9 [115]	30.2 [67]	33.6 [159]	31.9 [125]	33.1
FTA/FGA:	43.0 [38]	31.7 [76]	32.5 [263]	30.9 [60]	36.4
Miscellaneous Components
3P%:	34.6 [143]	34.4 [188]	36.8 [69]	34.2 [175]	34.1
2P%:	55.3 [10]	38.8 [1]	56.2 [4]	48.2 [183]	47.8
FT%:	79.2 [4]	67.6 [114]	68.8 [161]	61.1 [3]	68.6
Block%:	8.1 [130]	17.9 [3]	8.2 [134]	7.6 [218]	8.9
Steal%:	10.9 [259]	9.0 [234]	9.2 [111]	12.2 [36]	10
Style Components
3PA/FGA:	30.3 [236]	33.4 [202]	36.5 [78]	34.5 [234]	33
A/FGM:	62.3 [24]	43.3 [8]	61.0 [41]	52.4 [130]	54.1
Point Distribution (% of total points)
3-Pointers:	22.0 [292]	32.0 [43]	30.1 [96]	30.1 [82]	27.5
2-Pointers:	54.1 [121]	48.1 [289]	53.2 [147]	53.8 [116]	52.1
Free Throws:	23.9 [32]	19.9 [194]	16.7 [318]	16.1 [322]	20.3
Strength of Schedule
Components:	102.4 [100]	100.8 [173]	100.4 [198]	100.8 [170]	100.7
Overall:	0.5446 [127]		0.4886 [188]		0.5
Non-conference:	0.4297 [240]		0.3372 [303]		0.5
Personnel
Bench Minutes:	29.2% [216]		29.8% [203]		31.10%
Experience:	1.34 yrs [270]		1.12 yrs [314]		1.66
Effective Height:	+1.6 [74]		+2.2 [46]		0
Average Height:	78.7" [3]		77.2" [66]		76.5"

Analysis

Personnel

Florida is a talented team with plenty of size, but very little overall strength and experience.

Florida's back court is among the most solid in the SEC, starting with sophomore point guard Nick Calathes. Calathes is a tall "lead" guard who initiates most of the offense. He can dribble, drive and shoot the three. He is not great at getting his own shot but is so clever with the ball he can get one if he needs it. His backcourt mate, Walter Hodge, is a senior and a solid player in his own right, able to make shots and get to the rim. Florida's back court is among the deadliest from three point range in the conference.

The front court will likely consist of sophomore power forward Alex Tyus, sophomore forward Chandler Parsons and junior forward Dan Werner. Werner and Parsons are both capable of scoring inside and out, and Tyus is mostly an inside player. Neither Parsons nor Werner are overly athletic, but Tyus is, and although he doesn't have the strength, skill or bulk of Patrick Patterson, he is a very capable and improving player. Of the other two forwards, Chandler Parsons is by far the most dynamic and dangerous offensively.

Kenny Kadji is a freshman big man who gives Florida a good big option inside. He is as big and even a little taller than Patterson, but slower and less athletic. But he is a space eater who can get the job done inside. Erving Walker is a tiny (5'8") spark plug of a guard off the bench who has amazing quickness and speed, and is a dangerous matchup problem for Kentucky. Think a stronger and more explosive Devan Downey with a bit less overall skill. Ray Shipman helps out on the wing and is more of a slasher. Allan Chaney, another big forward, is injured and likely out for tonight.

Teams

Florida's main strengths are three point shooting, offensive efficiency and forcing turnovers. They take good care of the basketball, but do not rebound particularly well either offensively or defensively. Kentucky is a vastly superior defensive team, particularly against the two point shot, but Florida shoots a high percentage of their shots from three, and we all know that UK has been burned a lot from three point range this year.

Four factors analysis:

eFG%: Advantage Florida on offense and Kentucky on defense.
Turnover%: Advantage Florida on both offense and defense
Offensive Rebound %: Advantage Kentucky on offense and defense.
FT Attempts/FG Attempt: Kentucky on offense, Florida on defense.

Overall

This is a matchup between two very even teams that basically have different strengths -- Kentucky's strengths are defensive and Florida's strengths are offensive. Kentucky appears to have a slightly larger edge, but paper edges mean nothing, as they also had edges over the last three teams they played, and we saw how that went.

Kentucky will face a variety of defenses tonight, but probably more zone than man to man, although you can never say for sure with Donovan, because like his mentor, Rick Pitino, Billy D. likes to mix it up on defense. UK will see some match-up zone and quite possibly some junk like a box and one.

Offensively, Kentucky must get the ball to Patterson, and force the defense to collapse. That will happen, and Patterson will hit open shooters. The question is, will any of them shoot, and if they do, will they make them? Jodie Meeks will likely be taken away as much as possible, and Florida has the size and quickness to do it. If Kentucky continues to do what they have been doing the last three games, the odds of them winning this one are long, indeed.

Defensively, Kentucky must guard the three much better than they have in the last three games. If they fail to do this, it will take a superhuman effort by both Meeks and Patterson to overcome the scoring Florida can do. Florida will run, and they will shoot in transition and make shots. Kentucky will need to play Suffocats-style defense to stop the Gators, and the 'Cats have not done that against a talented team all year.

Although I like the matchups better in this game than in the last three, Florida is a vastly superior offensive team if they are able to hamper Meeks and Patterson as the last three teams have done. If they can't, this could be a convincing victory for Kentucky, because nobody on Florida's team can handle those two guys one-on-one. But Billy D. knows this, and he knows that UK is vulnerable to denying Meeks the ball and collapsing on Patterson. He believes, and so do I, that UK's other players cannot beat him.

Bottom line -- UK is on a precipice. If all Gillispie did was try to convince them to play harder, our chances of victory are less than 50%. If the 'Cats have some new wrinkles to free up our scorers and play solid 3-point defense, our chances go way up. You can never tell about Gillispie, so I have no prediction. Just nerves.

UK vs. Florida: A team in need and stats galore

Ken Howlett — Tue, 10 Feb 2009 08:28:35 -0000

A Team in Need

Since Kentucky's painful loss to Mississippi State last Tuesday in Rupp Arena, the the pulp and pixels around the Commonwealth have been exercised to such an extent that Richard Simmons would be beaming with perspiring pride. Theories, admonitions, and allegedly helpful tips have been bandied about by everyone with a computer, a plum sports-writing gig, or folks who simply have the time to ponder what it is that is wrong with the 'Cats.

We've read Mark Story tell us not to yell "shoot" every time Michael Porter gets the ball in his hands; we've read Jerry Tipton ask if the 'Cats can create; we've read John Clay write that the 'Cats must play smarter if they expect to win; we've read our own Truzenzuzex question Billy Gillispie's imagination; and some of you have read my own words of angst regarding the player's defensive effort, the coach's strategy, and why it's important to play for 40 minutes.

We've heard talk radio proffer a wide range of theories as to why the 'Cats have lost three straight games: In a nutshell; Gillispie needs to go back to Texas, Gillispie sucks, the players aren't any good, and Kentucky needs a third scorer (the talk radio folks aren't shy or timid in voicing their opinions, and they are many times straight to the point).

Now, I'm all for a give-and-take concerning the 'Cats, but the simple fact of the matter is that this team must beat Florida (19-4, 6-2) tonight in Rupp. Time for talk is over. Time for winning is upon us.

For all the belly-aching I've done over the last week, I really think the 'Cats are going to put on a good performance tonight. The players have had a week to evaluate their collective effort (and watch old Texas A&M game tapes), and the coaching staff has had a week to critique their own performance, or lack thereof. And with a roar of discontent as background noise to all of the reflecting that's taking place, surely the player's egos and pride have been challenged, probably like no other time in their competitive history. And surely Gillispie knows that what he's been doing, hasn't been working.

Patrick Patterson, who was voicing optimism about how his teammates will respond Tuesday night against the Gators, was asked if he would guarantee a Wildcat victory. Patterson begged off having a 'Joe Namath/Dicky Lyons' moment, but the big fella did have this to say:

"I can guarantee us playing hard, putting all our passion and heart out there."

With that, and a win, I would be satisfied.

Now, on to the show ...

Florida Gator Personnel (stats are SEC play ONLY)

Nick Calathes: 6'6", 194 lb sophomore swing -- Calathes is averaging 20.3 points per game, to go along with seven boards, and six assists. He's shooting an excellent 50.9% from the field, and 48.0% (24-50) from beyond the arc. He's playing a lot of minutes also, 34.1 per game. He's a solid free throw shooter at 71.4%.

Calathes is the catalyst and glue of this Florida team. He's a legitimate SEC Player of the Year candidate. Last year versus UK he scored 24 and 16 points.

He needs to be pressured, by either Liggins or Meeks, and then hope he doesn't get hot, dropping 3's in from 25 feet away. Calathes also sees the floor very well, evidenced by his school record 221 assists last year.

Chandler Parsons: 6'9, 213 lb sophomore forward -- Parsons is the second leading scorer for Billy Donovan, at 13.5 points per game. He also averages 6.6 rebounds and 2.0 assists per game. He makes 54.4% of his shots, and 34.2% (13-38) of his three-point attempts. He is not a good free throw shooter, though. He's made only 45.0%.

Parsons has come on strong after playing behind Marreese Speights last year as a freshman. He scored six and three points in the two games versus UK last year.

Alex Tyus: 6'8", 220 lb sophomore forward -- Tyus averages 11.4 points per game, to go along with 6.1 rebounds. He also makes shots; he's shooting 53.5% from the field and a solid 71.4% from the charity stripe.

He scored a total of two points versus UK last year.

Erving Walker: 5'8", 161 lb freshman guard -- Walker is averaging 10.5 points per game. He shoots the ball very well; he makes 44.7% (17-38) of his 3-point attempts, 44.6% from field overall, and 81.0% of his free throws. He also averages 2.8 assists per game. All in only 23.3 minutes per game.

Walker is why Jai Lucas isn't at Florida anymore. For the 19th rated point guard prospect (Rivals), he sure has had a solid season thus far.

Walter Hodge: 6'0", 170 lb senior guard -- Hodge is averaging 7.8 points per game. He shoots 40.0% from the field, 31.0% (9-29) from the 3-point line, and 76.5% from the free throw line. He also averages 2.6 assists per game. He's second in the team in minutes played at 30.6 per game.

Hodge is basically the same player he's been for four years; he runs hot and cold, for no apparent reason. Although in SEC play he isn't shooting the ball well, I've seen him put up some great numbers in the past. He can't be left alone to roam the perimeter. Last year versus Kentucky, Hodge had 10 and five points in the two games.

Dan Werner: 6'8", 230 lb junior forward -- Werner is averaging 7.3 points per game, to go along with 3.8 rebounds, and 2.4 assists. In SEC play he's shooting only 35.8% from the field, and 32.0% (8-25) from behind the arc. He's making 92.3% of his free throws.

Werner will play inside and outside (I think he prefers playing outside of the lane). I think he's a little soft, so getting physical with him may take him out of his rhythm. Last year he scored nine and nine points versus the 'Cats.

Kenny Kadji: 6'10", 240 lb freshman F/C -- Kadji is averaging 5.1 points, and 2.8 rebounds per game, in 12.9 minutes. He's made 53.1% of his shots, and 53.8% of his free throws.

Kadji was the #5 rated center prospect (Rivals) coming out of high school. Like many young big men, Kadji has had fits and starts; at times he's played well, at times he's struggled. My suggestion to UK, make hay in the paint when he's in the game.

Ray Shipman: 6'5", 212 lb freshman G/F -- Shipman plays in 10.9 minutes per game, averaging 2.8 points and 1.3 rebounds. He shoots 53.3% from the field, and has made one of his two 3-point attempts. He's an 83.3% free throw shooter.

Shipman was Florida's Mr. Basketball, as well as the Gatorade Florida Player of the Year.

Gator Bites

The Gators have two SEC losses, to Tennessee and South Carolina ... In the UT loss, the Vols shot 49% from the field ... Tennessee also made 12 of 28 3-point attempts ... Scotty Hopson was 4-6 from beyond the arc, and led UT with 20 points ... In Florida's 79-63 loss to UT, the Gators committed seven more turnovers than the Vols ... Florida beat South Carolina last week, 97-93 ... In that game the Gamecocks shot 49.3% from the field ... And they made an even 50.0% of their 3-point attempts ... The Gators couldn't guard USC guard Devan Downey either ... Downey went for 33 points ... He made seven of his nine 3-point tries ... But, South Carolina lost because they MISSED 12 of 22 free throws ... And they committed seven more turnovers than Florida ... Since SEC play began, Florida is only grabbing 28.7% of their own missed shots ... Last year versus UK, Florida's Marreese Speights combined for 40 points in two games ... Alex Tyus has 35 dunks this year ... 78.8% of the Gators scoring comes from the freshman and sophomore classes ... Nick Calathes has scored in double-figures in 20 of 23 games this year ... Calathes and Tyus have both played in 59 consecutive games without fouling out ... In SEC play, Florida has beaten Ole Miss (78-68), Auburn (68-65), Arkansas (80-65), Vanderbilt (94-69), Georgia (83-57), and South Carolina (97-93).

UK/UFA SEC Games-Only Stat Comparison

Florida Opponents

Points 79.0 70.8

FG% 47.7 44.9

3-Point% 39.1 32.4

Rebounds -1.1

Assists 17.0 11.9

Turnovers 13.0 14.9

Steals 6.5 7.4

Blocks 2.5 3.4

Kentucky Opponents

Points 72.0 65.1

Field Goal% 45.1 37.5

3-point% 36.0 34.9

Rebounds +5.3

Assists 13.5 9.4

Turnovers 17.0 13.4

Steals 5.6 7.4

Blocks 6.6 3.9

CliffsNotes Analysis

I expect to see Tyus, Parsons, and Werner being near, or hovering around Patrick Patterson whenever UK is in a half-court set (why any coach wouldn't at least attempt that approach is a mystery). On the perimeter, Jodie Meeks will probably find himself the victum of a chaser. To offset that strategy, UK needs to do two things: 1. Play defense like they did for the first 20 games of the season - That should allow UK to get out in transition and have the opportunity to make easy baskets, or have open 3-point attempts. 2. Run some screens for Meeks - Jodie Meeks is a workhorse; he doesn't mind being made to run every inch of the floor in an effort to get an open look. Heck, set some double-screens ... just get him some open looks.

The 'Cats are a team desperate for a win. That's right ... desperate, and in this case desperation better be the mother of invention.

Thanks for reading, and 'Go Cats!

2008-09 Florida Gators Basketball Preview

mlmintampa — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 18:12:25 -0000

Tuesday night Al Horford had 27 points and 17 rebounds in his team's sixth consecutive victory to start the season.

Yes, Big Al is with the Atlanta Hawks now and it says something about the fall to mediocrity the Gators took last season. That line used to describe a Gator game. Now, two years past, we are still looking from someone to take the torch from Horford, Noah, Brewer and Green. This season is as much about the team as it is one player; Nick Calathes.

The Gators do not have the horses to win the SEC, much less the division. They don't have the old men to inspire a run like Georgia did either. (I'm getting the negativity out of the way now.) What Florida does have is a core group of players who got burned last season when they thought the name on their jersey guaranteed them a NCAA spot. Do they have the talent? Sure. Do they have the will to compete? Well, it is time to find out.

Last year, I outed myself as someone who was not convinced in the Nick Calathes Experience. In victories, he'd fill a boxscore. In losses, he contributed as much as the student section; just another person in a Gator jersey. He is the most talented player on the team and with the losses of Marreese Speights and Jai Lucas, he must lead the team this season. No more disappearing for 20 minutes at a time.

Lucas leaving is a blessing for the Gators. I wish him well, but for Lucas to bounce this close to the start of the season is a reflection on what has been happening in practice. Assumptions are not always correct, but it's not crazy to say Calathes will run the offense at the point, effectively pushing out Lucas who was exposed last season. Calathes belongs at the point and it was only a matter of time before Lucas realized this.

So now what happens now? Calathes needs to be able to carry the team when necessary but also push along a young front line with Alex Tyus and Chandler Parsons rotated with Kenny Kadji and Allan Chaney. Calathes is a sophomore like Tyus and Parsons and just a year older than Kadji and Chaney, but Calathes is (hopefully) mature enough to work them into the offense. We will see how this dynamic works in out-of-conference play and amend this prior to the SEC season. (I don't trust preseason stats, especially since lame duck Lucas got 20 minutes in the first game.)

I'll be in Gainesville this weekend and we will all get a better sense of the club when they play a real team (apologizes to Warner and Rollins College). Friday night UF plays Toledo and they return four starters. Plus, they have a chucker;

Tyrone Kent is a dangerous scoring threat, but that is mainly because he shoots way too much. The guard took over 400 shots this past season, netting just 36.3 percent of those attempts.

Well played Mr. Kent!

Bradley is a different story. They made the NIT last season (hey, just like the Gators!) but lost a significant amount of scoring in their backcourt. Like the typical mid-major, they have restocked with juco players. They are good enough to challenge the Gators, so they cannot just show up Sunday.

The Gators have one strength that continues. Billy Donovan is still a great coach who built a program out of nothing. Without Billy at the helm, there would not be as much confidence in the Gators this season. Whether this turns out to be a Sweet 16 season or another dud will depend on Billy's ability to inspire the team. Let's hope he can do it and Nick Calathes leads the way.

Gamecock Man's Hoops SEC East Power Rankings

Gamecock Man — Sat, 25 Oct 2008 16:03:39 -0000

Ready for another run to the title?

The hoops season is soon upon us. Here are is my pre-season power rankings for the East. As many have recognized, the East probably features the three best teams--Florida, Tennessee, and Kentucky--so expect one of these teams to win the title come tourney time.

1. Florida

Although they faded down the stretch last year before making a run to the NIT finals, where they lost to UMass, the Gators have a number of skilled players and should be conference and maybe national contenders. They lost talented big man Mareese Speights to the NBA, but they return several sophomores that should gel better after a year of playing together. Among them: Jai Lucas, Chandler Parsons, and Nick Calathes. As usual, they also signed a powerful incoming freshman class, and players like Kenny Kadji and Eloy Vargas will contribute immediately. Senior hustler Walter Hodge completes a core group of players that is talented and deep.

2. Tennessee

The Vols look to be solid but probably not as good as last year's regular season SEC champion squad. They lose a number of players and will have to rely on their highly recruited class of freshmen along with upperclassmen Tyler Smith, Wayne Chism, and J. P. Prince. This should be another exciting, high-scoring team, but you have to think that the lack of experience and lingering defensive issues are going to cost them against elite competition.

3. Kentucky

The Cats won't lose to Gardner-Webb again this year, but they're likely still a year or two away from being able to challenge the Gators and Vols. Joe Crawford and Ramel Bradley are gone, so Kentucky will have to rely on Patrick Patterson quite a bit. That's not a bad situation to be in, because Patterson will likely be the best big fella in the conference. However, he won't be enough to get the Cats past the first or second round of the NCAA tourney.

4. South Carolina

The Gamecocks return almost every significant player from a team that lost a lot of close games and could have just as well finished 18-14 as 14-18. With added experience and an exciting new coach, this group should be ready to win a few more games this year, although they'll likely do no better than play spoiler in terms of the big picture. Devan Downey may be the conference's best player.

5. Vanderbilt

Vandy returns all-conference center A. J. Ogilvy but loses the rest of its team, including a number of sharpshooters that opened things up for Ogilvy on the post. This means that the Commodores will likely struggle a bit this year until they find a combination that works for them.

6. Georgia

The Dawgs concluded last year with a surprise championship run in the SEC tourney, probably saving coach Dennis Felton's job. It's going to take another unlikely turn of events for the Dawgs to go anywhere this year, as they lose most of the core group of players that composed a pretty mediocre team last year.