March 2007 Archives

Tiger coach Tommy West bemoaned his offense's lack of "want-to" in Friday's 83-play scrimmage at Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium.

Still, there were some numbers that were hard to dismiss.

Quarterback Martin Hankins, firmly entrenched as the starter, went 8-of-11 for 120 yards and a touchdown. On a 12-play scoring drive early in the scrimmage, he went 5-of-6 for 47 yards and would have been perfect had a play not been busted. Hankins' one incomplete pass during the 65-yard drive struck an unsuspecting receiver in the back.

Also, backup Will Hudgens went 10-of-16 for 114 yards and a TD, exhibiting a touch on short passes that he previously had lacked. He hooked up with Steven Black for a 35-yard score on a perfectly lofted toss to the right corner of the end zone.

And speaking of Black, the junior college transfer continues to be a playmaker. On the scoring pass, he deftly shielded cornerback LaKeitharun Ford on the play to haul in the TD. Black caught a scrimmage-best five passes for 76 yards. He and Duke Calhoun (four catches, 99 yards, 1 TD) could give the Tigers a potent 1-2 receiving punch.

Not sure if Miguel Barnes can nudge his way into gaining more playing time than starting running back Joe Doss, but Barnes has the make-you-miss moves and the breakaway speed that no other back possesses. He showed it on several runs Friday.

Several observations as Tiger football wraps up its second week of spring workouts:

1) Good as advertised (maybe better): A priority for West during the recruiting season was to bring in several mid-year junior college players who could have an immediate impact. Early indications are defensive tackle Freddie Barnett, receiver Steven Black, linebacker Tommy Phelps and offensive linemen Terrence Echols and Cody Stubblefield will contribute quickly.
Barnett started strong, but has been slowed by injury. He may not play the next two weeks, but he'll be a factor in the fall. Black is a prize, a receiver who can make a difficult catch in traffic as well as stretch the defense. Phelps is a playmaker, always around the ball and pushing starter Heath Grant.

2) If the Tiger running backs remain healthy, it could be a team strength. Senior Joe Doss is a veteran leader, who can get the tough yards inside. Sophomore Miguel Barnes and T.J. Pitts have been impressive in practice, with Pitts looking like the prize recruit he was in 2005.

3) Defensively, new cornerbacks coach Derek Jones has infused a toughness and a swagger. It's a key position for the Tiger defense if it expects to become a dominant unit again.

4) Quarterback Martin Hankins is looking as if he will not be challenged for the starting job. He has completed 14-of-19 in scrimmage situations with no interceptions and a touchdown.

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Mike Parham, Memphis:

I think expecations are sky-high now. Our obvious two weaknesses were at point guard and depth at big man. With Derrick Rose coming, point guard will become a strength. Sean Taggert (I might have his name wrong- the transfer from Iowa State) will give us some depth at the post.

Another bright spot is that it looks like we won't have to go through our traditional third season of "is Calipari leaving" this year. The only worry I had was a rumor that Joey was going to go pro. If the rumor were true, maybe the silver lining of the loss is that Joey was humbled and will decide to stay.

The only real downer is the realization that our real season only lasts for three games during the tournament. The Conference USA regular season and tournament is a complete waste. Unless some of the teams can at least rise to the level of Mike Anderson-era UAB teams, I'm all for getting out of the conference and going independent. Let's see what happens next year.

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Patti Yancey, Bartlett:

I really liked Andrew's response...I too felt down, still a little under the weather from New Orleans and a little disappointed that we didn't 'show' the announcers how really wrong they were....but as I look back...I realize that nothing we could have done would have changed the way people think about us...either they like us or they dont ...its their loss...not knowing what a great team we have ( and they remain our team)....and not just athletically either...but a team that has played together all year on and off the court and supported each other with character and strength and called each other out when necessary, to represent a school, a community, and a love for basketball in the best fashion possible as unbelievable young men stepping up to the plate in life. Just like our own children, sometimes, no matter how hard we will it or wish it to be we cant take away the hurt or disappointment...but as adults, they learn from trials and tribulations and move forward, better from the experience and use it during all those life tests that will come their way. Thank you TEAM....EVERYONE of you.....for all the fun....while I haven't played basketball in a few years now (you couldn't cross the center court line when I did...lol) I enjoy it still...vicariously through you...each one a little different player but our team was one I will remember forever...As I said last year....I cant wait until next fall...and we remain...BIA....GO TIGERS....

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Erik Henninger, Birmingham:

What a game. I took a bunch of notes on the game, but I threw them away. I don't think I can take reliving that game knowing the outcome.

First, Ohio State played a great game. Even when Oden was on the bench they stayed tough. Most importantly, they made their free throws down the stretch.

In the opening minutes, The Tigers looked nervous for the first time since the North Texas game. Deep down, I knew The Tigers were going to have a tough time advancing when their FG % was hovering around 40% for the tournament.

As others have said, the refs took Memphis out of the game at crucial times, and I can point to several blown calls.

Yes, Douglas-Roberts foul on Oden was intentional (I don't think anyone will argue that) but if you're gonna call that, give Oden a tech for hanging on the rim multiple times (merely of effect or intimidation). Fact is, that Technical would have severely altered the first half, much like the phantom fouls called against Allen and Dorsey did.

If you're going to take Memphis Players out of the game, do the same for Ohio State. The final doesn't indicate it, but this was a close game and officiating (or lack there of) was too much of a factor. Unfortunately for Memphis, Ohio State came to play for once in the tournament, and the refs continued their love affair with The Buckeyes (just ask Xavier).

This Memphis team is young. They will lick their wounds, reflect on their mistakes and come back stronger next season. This tournament was an invaluable experience for these players and a thrilling ride for this fan.

Go Tigers Go.

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From David Rubio, Franklin, Tenn.:

After 24 hours of reflection, I have the following thoughts on our Elite 8 game with Ohio State:

1. While they had the best player...I think we had the better team. Each time Oden went to the bench, we made a run & it was during such runs, that we built a lead of our own. And each time we built a lead, Matta would send Oden back in & the lead disappeared. The proof is right there. Oden made that much of a difference. There is no one on our team that means THAT much to our success. Because Conley is so quick & their shooters are hitting big shots, it's hard to imagine that OSU will be eliminated unless Oden gets in foul trouble.

2. CDR's intentional foul has haunted me. First, there's no denying that the resulting shift in momentum was THE turning point in the game...there was simply no bigger moment in the game. Secondly, because I've considered it a mistake for Chris to risk picking up his 4th foul with 9:43 remaining under ANY circumstances, I've been hesitant to totally blame the refs for the resulting disaster. However, after much consideration, I may have gotten it wrong. (Thinking through the last 66 wins & 8 losses, I just can't think of another time that CDR made a truly stupid decision.) I'm beginning to think that CDR's foul might not have been a mistake after all. I mean, who's kidding whom here, my basketball smarts don't compare to his...we're talking CD-freaking-R! Is it possible that his foul was a concerted effort to head off just such a momentum swing? And is it also possible that the refs, by making a terrible mistake by calling an intentional (and by compounding it by giving Oden the bucket), took the game out of the hands of the players & into their own? I think so.

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Keith Ellis, Lexington, Ky.:

I’m not going to count my chickens too soon, so I’ll hold back judgment on how amazing the Tigers can be next year until after the early entry deadline. I don’t think any of our guys will go, but I have seen crazier things happen in the past, and I don’t want to jump the gun. But if you look at all the pieces that should be in place for next year, one has to believe we’ll be in the preseason top 5, if not #1 depending on how many guys leave other schools. We lose Jeremy, who I admit I was wrong about at the beginning of the season, but Doneal can play his role. We add in Derrick Rose, and everything else stays the same. The one thing I worry about is how the team chemistry will be affected by the addition of a star. Will Rose be okay not taking the final shot, can he give way to CDR and Antonio’s leadership? These are my concerns. Otherwise I’d like to see Joey continue to get stronger, yet stay out of foul trouble, Pierre and Kareem continue to condition well, and everyone shoot foul shots.

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Jim Lott, Nashville:

My thoughts on the game were of course of disappointment. I really felt that this was a winnable game for us and one that we would match up well with. It seems that we could never quite get over the hump. Every time we made a run and got back into the game Ohio State would hit a big 3 or make an excellent drive and take over again. At the end I think they did to us what we normally do to other teams and wore us down mentally. And have you ever seen a team hit that many free throws to seal a game! They played an excellent game and certainly deserved to win.

Our guys did give it everything they have and once again I feel this was a very successful season for the Tigers. For the most part we have consistently seen 5 guys working together for the desirable outcome without thinking about their own stats. Jeremy Hunt definitely left his mark on the team and will be missed next year. I think he brought with him a lot of life lessons that served this young team well during the year. Good luck to you Jeremy in your future endeavors.

Now looking forward to next year! Every year works out differently and you never know exactly how a group is going to jell together but on paper this looks to be a very successful team coming next year. With the additions coming in and virtually everyone returning and what we saw this year I think Tiger fans can feel very good about the future.

Thanks to the 2006/07 Tiger team for some GREAT memories and for greatly exceeding expectations. You have been very fun to watch all year and have represented our school, city and state very well.

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Andrew Ruhland, Memphis:

Well, I think I needed a day to decompress after that game. I tried not to build it up too much in my head, but the visions of Final Fours were dancing around too much up there. Instead of focusing on the loss, to cope, I’ve been focusing on the positives. 1. In a ‘rebuilding’ year, we went to another Elite 8 (and Tennessee didn’t). 2. We competed against the #1 team in the country, and without some fouls, had a real shot at beating them. 3. With that performance, Jeremy Hunt should be playing somewhere in professional basketball next year. 4. CDR, Dorsey, Dozier, Kemp, Allen, Anderson, Cooper, Mack…then sprinkle in a Rose? Impressive. I feel so much better this year than I did last year b/c we actually showed up and played basketball. So hold your head high, keep wearing your Tiger Blue, and fire off an email to Vitale, and remind him of a team from Memphis, and maybe he’ll sit down and catch a game once in a while.

Go Tigers Go!!!

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From David Rubio, Franklin, Tenn.:

ALL GOOD THINGS...

Wow…this is such an empty feeling.

First things first, though: this is STILL a magical time to be a Tiger! No matter what I say next, keep this in mind. A lot of forces combined to make us feel this way today…but at the end of the day, I am so proud of MY team.

My flesh wants to blame the game on the refs (I’ll get to them later – they obviously called a poor game); but really, this game was won by OSU players & lost by ours. Here are my post-game thoughts:

Who was that out there today? Joey was terrible (after calling Oden out!) CDR played like an idiot in crucial moments (Our best player cannot commit ANY foul in that situation – forget that it shouldn’t have been intentional or that it should have been called on the floor…he’s our best player – what was he thinking!) And Calipari was pulling hot shooters & made what I think was an egregious mistake in the first half by pulling both Dozier & Dorsey (prior to any real foul trouble) in favor of Kareem Cooper who was personally responsible for giving up 6 strait points! This just wasn’t the team that we’ve seen play all year.

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Michelle Beasley, Cordova:

I really have only a couple of negative things regarding tonights game. First, I think that the referees got it wrong. They called alot of ticky-tack fouls on us, and really gave OSU a lot of leeway. Also, we need a BIG MAN that can score. I am not knocking Joey Dorsey, but he was outplayed tonight, and not just by Oden.

Now for the posititve. What a great job by the Memphis Tigers this season. I can truly say that you far exceeded my expectations and I think next year is going to be our year! You guys showed hustle and heart and played together as a team. I couldn't be prouder to be a Tiger fan! Don't you worry, next season is not far away, and we will play for the National Championship!!!
To Jeremy Hunt, you have played with composure and courage. You played with your heart and soul tonight, and you should be proud of your effort. I wish you the best, and know without a doubt you will suceed with your future endeavors!!! We will miss you, Jeremy!

To our future Tigers, be ready for next year! You have alot to live up to !!!!!!!!!

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Patti Yancey, Bartlett:

Was just listening to our coach...classy as always....give credit where credit is due to Ohio St...He was sooo very complimentary of their play, players and coaches....Another great year....Sorry for Jeremy....he really wanted it bad...wish nothing but the best for him and his family...Way to go CDR...Antonio...Willie....alll...we went further and did more than we were ever given credit for going...but Next Year......Is it Basketball season yet??

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Alisa D. Williams, Bartlett.:

Wow...What a ride!!!

Thanks to the Tigers for another awesome season.

First loss this year...there's something to be said for that...

The athleticism was awesome...Ohio State just capitalized on our turnovers and that, and foul trouble cost us the game.

But it was an amazing season and I look forward to next year...

Thanks to Coach Calipari and the Tigers for showing the critics we deserved to be were we were.
Well done!

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Kenneth Brasel, Glasgow, Ky.:

What a year. We are ten points down, and our bucket of tricks is about empty. Cal and the boys threw everything they had at Ohio, and we still came up short. 90 seconds to go, and we are 10 points down, but the good news is, everyone should be back next year. Hunt will of course be gone, and he is going out with his head held high. Perhaps this (he) is our biggest win. Sure we won almost 3 dozen games, causing havoc across the NCAA league and winning the right to hang a few more banners in the process. It is a healthy thing to find the upside when your emotions are dark and down. Several of our players have their heads covered in towels as they sit on the bench, no doubt counting down the last seconds in their minds. However, you guessed it, Hunt is still on the floor, fighting, scampering, refusing to quit. That should be our banner, hanging from the rafters next to our new Sweet 16 tapestry.

Yeah I am bummed, remember we haven't lost since, I don't even remember. Memphis isn't very good at this losing thing. Well, let's all get it out of our system this weekend. Kick a can, eat a jelly donut, and anything else you can think of that is self indulgent. But come Monday, remember to join the Tiger bandwagon to get Hunt, number 5, the greatest 6th man in the history of Memphis Tigers basketball, one final jersey. One that will hang right up there with the rest of our accomplishments.

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Keith Ellis, Lexington, Ky.:

Remember the Alamo (dome). That needs to be our battle cry for next year. We had this game in hand and we gave it away. The feeling this year is much different then last. Last year I was frustrated because we did not play well at all. The yar I am frustrated because we had this game won. We had this game, and we let it slip away. Ohio State played great, but not so well that we could not have won. So dare we say the third time will be the charm. I hope so.

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Erik Henninger, Birmingham:

I sense the tide is turning. The band wagon is starting to swell, and the Tigers seem to be making leaps and bounds in the court of public opinion. Basically, America is finding out what we knew all along. This team is the real deal.

Memphis is hungry. Unlike this Ohio State squad, these Tigers have had a seat at the table. The Final Four was almost within their grasp, but they came up short. Not this time! No, Memphis will not go quietly into the night.

Yesterday, I wondered if The Tigers could handle the pressure of 25,000 hostile fans. Well, Memphis emerged unscathed, and today, I'll be honest, OSU doesn't strike fear like the Aggies did.

I just don't see Buckeyes matching up well with The Tigers. Mark my words: Memphis will wear Ohio State down and Oden will foul out.

If Memphis will dribble drive Oden to the bench and lock down the perimeter on D, the Final Four is as good as ours. Something tells me OSU and Oden are about to learn a valuable lesson. One that A&M and the Aggie faithful had to learn the hard way.

Don't Mess With Memphis.

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Michelle Beasley, Cordova:

Ohio State has played with fate a little too much lately, and their luck is about to run out. Once again, I think the Tigers match up pretty well against OSU.

I think that there are a few "keys to victory" tomorrow afternoon. First and foremost, the Tigers must stay out of foul trouble. We need both Dorsey and Dozier to stay on Oden at all times. We also need to run-n-gun it. OSU is a half-court team. They do not run nearly as well as the Tigers do. We need to wear them out! Defensive pressure is key! Keep the full court press on the whole game. We must go after Oden and get him into foul trouble EARLY!! This will take some pressure off of our big guys, and we can let our guys harass the daylights out of their perimeter players.

If we can apply good defense is all phases of the game, and keep the pace going, this should be a VICTORY and the Tigers will march into Atlanta to the Final Four.

As Always, Cal will have this team ready to go and I can't wait until tip-off tomorrow afternoon!!! GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO TIGERSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

P.S. Vol fans, quit whining already, just sit back and watch us tomorrow!

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Michelle Beasley, Cordova:

Tell me you don't believe now! Tell me that the Tigers are overrated! Tell me that the Tigers haven't beaten anyone! Tell me Memphis is not making some noise and marching all the way to Atlanta! CBS and ESPN are you paying attention? Dick Vitale are you?

What a game! What a game! What a game! From the coaching to the effort of the players, Memphis gets an A+++++!!!!! Did CDR actually get hurt last Sunday? He looked amazing on the floor! What a gifted athlete! Jeremy Hunt did a fantastic job and Dozier's defense was outstanding. How about Antonio Anderson, can we now call him Mr. Clutch?

I was so impressed with the Tigers composure in such a HOSTILE environment. Coach Cal and the coaching staff deserve so much credit for having the team prepared as well as they did.
How about that Tiger defense? They held Law in check, not scoring for 13 minutes! What a wonderful defensive effort! This team never got rattled, kept there composure and will march into Atlanta into the FINAL FOUR!!!!

It is a great day to be a Tiger Fan!!!! Way to go GUYS!!!!! (and kudos to all the fans that traveled to San Antonio! )

I can't wait until Saturday!!!!!!!

T-I-G-E-R-S TIGERS!!!!!! GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO TIGERSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From David Rubio, Franklin, Tenn.:

GAME PLAN: DEJA VU

Well...beating OSU isn't going to be easy...but it's hard to imagine it getting any tougher than beating Texas A&M in SA...what a game.. In fact, when you factor in the neutral-site nature of this game & our 11-game tourney win streak in the state of Texas, our boys might just feel downright comfy in the Alamodome on Saturday.

True, this time next year, Oden (whom Digger Phelps repeatedly referred to as 'Odom' last night) could be playing for the Grizz & is a very special player. But, the Tigers have already perfected a fool-proof game plan: stunningly stingy 'D'. Anyone watching both games last night could see that the open looks & crafty dribble-drives that fueled OSU's comeback against Tennessee will be MUCH tougher (if not downright impossible) against a Tigers defense that has found a way to slow down everyone they've played. And, because defense is going to be the key, the game just might come down to the battle of whistles: whose Big Men get in/stay out of foul trouble.

Of course, it wouldn't hurt if our shooters go nuts from outside, either!

PS-don't forget to enjoy it, guys...this is a special group & a special time to be a Tiger fan.

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Keith Ellis, Lexington, Ky.:

Bring on the big man. Ohio State has a great group of kids on their team, and they have proven again and again that they can play with the best. But tomorrow night all of that ends. They have been living by a prayer the last two games, and here’s to hoping their prayers fall on deaf ears tomorrow night. It will be sad to see a great college basketball player like Greg Oden’s career come to an end, but don’t mind me if I don’t shed a tear for the 35 year old Freshman. Instead, I’ll raise my glass and welcome him to Memphis next fall, because the Grizzlies need him, and I’ll be glad to cheer for him then.

In order for this to happen, our guys need to keep up the intensity we’ve played with so far this tournament. Joey and Robert have to stay out of foul trouble, and Chris, Antonio and Jeremy need to continue to get into the lane and cause fouls. Get Oden out early and then we’ll make our run. Greg Doyel from CBS Sporstline predicted from the very beginning that OSU would have trouble with our speed and athleticism, Tennessee proved that last night, but let off the gas a little too early. Let’s play pedal to the metal all night long, and bring the TIGERS to Atlanta.

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Erik Henninger, Birmingham:

I just got back from Buffalo Wild Wings and Boy...I can't stop smiling. That is what March Madness is all about. Would anyone stop me if I said that was the most amazing Tiger win of the last 20 Years? And how about those Memphis fans in San Antonio! Way to make our presence felt. Because I was at a restaurant my notes were few and far between, but there is one word I wrote in all caps. It says "CLUTCH."

Clutch is Antonio Anderson making the biggest foul shots of his life like it was a walk in the park.

Clutch is overcoming the media, the crowd and the refs.

Clutch is beating Texas A&M in a de facto home game.

Clutch is moving on to the Elite Eight.

Go Tigers Go.

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Patti Yancey, Bartlett:

Why is it we are the Rodney Dangerfields of the college Basketball world?..Are they soooo desperate to to hear their own voice that they will say anything? Well I for one am TIRED of it. Last night unable to get the smile off my face and to excited to sleep we did what everyone else in Memphis was doing, we flipped channels to hear the glowing reports of our win. Only to be continually disappointed by the reporters still talking about Mr Law, and how great a player he is and how he just had a bad game.....but the ZINGER of all ZINGERS.....came from Rick Majerus and Steve Lavin while talking about the ruling made by the officials on how much time should be removed from the clock....it went something like this...." they probably brought their timer with them from Memphis. He was on Beale Street last might 'splattering'(?) ribs!" (laughter all around).....Well first off maybe Mr Majerus should lay off some of the ribs....(I could go on but need I..) Second...I thought these were educated men of basketball....men that know the sport...rules and all....had someone done their homework they would understand the ruling and it would make more sense about how much time elapsed....Right after that comment was made, Majerus made the comment, twice, that Memphis got too many fouls shots...That is all I heard about before the game, that everyone that takes it in (or attempts to) on A & M would be fouled, that is how they played...So YES we had a lot of fouls (which before the game..WE being the team that was the poorest shooting team in the whole universe since the beginning of life), and we made the ones that counted, if anyone that has followed or watched more than a clip of our games, would know....(I guess espn doesn't carry sports...especially at Mr Majerus house...or maybe he cant change the channel with greasy fingers...eating all the ribs)..
My favorite comment made all night was made by CDR...Im just going to go back to my room watch a little TV and see what they have to say about us....then call and CANCEL ESPN!....From the mouths of babes...Thanks CDR.....WE LOVE OUR TIGERS!...

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Keith Ellis, Lexington, Ky.:

My guess is that until Memphis is in a BCS conference, we’ll be perceived as a step child that doesn’t belong. It’s something we’ve all dealt with since becoming Tiger fans, and something we will continue to deal with until we’re given the chance to beat the big boys on a regular basis. And as much as Cal doesn’t want to admit it, playing in CUSA does hurt this club, not so much that we can’t or won’t win a title, but that extra experience really would help. No one in the national media pays attention because we are expected to win, those that do actually speak very highly of us.

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Jody Kane, Memphis:

The Tigers are young and Joey Dorsey is BIG! So I guess that makes two teams playing against one another that have a couple of things in common. Not to mention that both teams are good! When the brackets were announced way back when, my comment was, OK, I guess we’ll have to go through Ohio State to get to the Final Four!” So, look out Buckeyes, here we come!

Oden is a good player, but it takes an entire team to win the game. The Tigers are the best-rounded team in the tournament. If one guy isn’t stepping up, someone else will. I don’t care how talented you are, if you have the will to win, it makes you better. This year it is the “Eye of the Tiger”. They are focused on the prize and they have said so all year…One game at a time! Joey will defend against Oden and have a monster game. Jeremy and Willie will combine to hit thee pointers. Antonio will defend the floor like he always does so well. Andre will hit at least one important shot. And, CDR will guide the Tigers into the Final Four!

GO TIGERS GO!!!!

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Chad Langstraat, Memphis:

I spoke to my father this morning. He and my brother were at the game last night. He said the San Antonio paper claims that Memphis did not win but A&M lost. They put the whole game on Law. They said Mr Clutch blew the game with the missed layup. How is that for no respect?!

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Andrew Ruhland, Memphis:

The worst thing that I saw was Vitale reporting that ‘he must be hearing the wrong information from his people’ because he has not watched any of the Memphis games this year and Memphis is a ‘pretty good team’.

Basically validating what everyone thinks about the lack of respect from the media concerning the Tigers. They are all talking poorly about the Tigers, even though they have not watched us this year. Thanks ‘experts’.

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Alisa D. Williams, Bartlett.:

Ok...is it just me, or did the guys on CBS Sports seem extremely disappointed we won?

I mean...they said Nevada would take us out and when that didn't happen, I guess they thought the Aggies would. It just seemed like Greg had this "what is going on?" look on his face after the game. I don't think they really know what to do with us. It's like they still don't give us the respect we deserve but at the same time, they can't take anything away from us. Memphis has an amazing team. And we can't be classified as a Cinderella team with our ranking and record, so these folks are left wondering "what is going on?". The Tigers are going all the way...that's what! LOL

but seriously, did anyone else notice besides me?

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Chad Langstraat, Memphis:

I have been torn the past few days about which I would rather have win between Ohio State and Tennessee. On one hand it would be great to get some redemption on Tennessee for the regular season loss. On the other hand we wouldn’t get any national recognition. All we would hear about is how Memphis’ road to the Final Four was easy… I would love to see Joey vs. Oden.

Tonight’s game was unbelievable! I actually heard the stat that coming into the tournament, Memphis was dead last in free throw percentage of all 65 teams. How many times has Cal said that the Tigers make their free throws down the stretch… when they matter?

Antonio Anderson is the man! I can’t believe he hit both of those free throws with 3 seconds left. There was even a time out in between. That was clutch! He also played stellar defense.

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Andrew Ruhland, Memphis:

That was one of the best Memphis games I have ever seen in my life. We played like a team tonight. Now I am watching to see who wins between OSU and UT and OSU has made mincemeat of the UT lead going into half. Now we have another ballgame tonight.

What a heck of a performance from the Tigers. CDR playing and scoring like we needed him to. Jeremy, playing like a Senior who doesn’t want this train to stop at the station tonight to let him off. I want everyone to understand what we witnessed tonight. This will be a game you tell your grandkids 30 years from now, that you had the opportunity to watch and be intimately involved with. This is the game where every one of the ‘professionals’ picked us to loose because A&M had so much depth, and we had “not very much (depth)” (I actually heard them say this tonight). This is the game that propelled us to the Elite 8 for the second consecutive year. This is the game where you talk about how much San Antonio was a home court for the men from A&M, but we were able to rise above the noise and prevail. And, this is the game that we point to, to show how we were able to propel ourselves to the Final Four. How great does that sound?!?!?

Nice going guys, Keep saying your prayers for CDR’s ankle, and definitely sport your Tiger gear tomorrow. We are in the midst of a momentous occasion. Soak it up!

Go Tigers Go!!!

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Felix Caldwell, Memphis:

Anderson at the free throw line shooting two with the Tigers down one and 3.1 seconds left on the clock.

1 of 4 from the line up to that point. He calmly nails the first. Time out to try and ice him. I'm so tense I can't sit still during the commercial break. My stomach is in a knot. Antonio comes back to the line and nails the second. By his demeanor there was never any doubt in his mind as to the outcome. He had only moments earlier grabbed 3 offensive rebounds to set up the final heroics. Before that he had spent the evening containing Acie Law a probable All- American and player of the year candidate.

This is nothing new for Antonio. His consistent play has been the backbone of this team throughout the season. I could have highlighted a number of Tiger players and the contributions they each made to help secure this victory and a second straight trip to the Elite Eight. This team finds a way to win and they do it with hustle, team play and desire. I love to watch this team play because they look like they're having fun. They also represent Memphis admirably as student athletes. I'm trying to decide about going to San Antonio for Saturday's game. If not I'm confident I will be able to see them again in Atlanta.

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From David Rubio, Franklin, Tenn.:

TIGERS LEGIT!!!

As I sat, frantically drinking my wife’s special “Game Day Blue Milk” in the closing seconds…it happened. MEMPHIS WINS!!! Take that Sports Talk experts! The Memphis Tigers have just done what you said was impossible. This magical Tiger team has succeeded in knocking off one of the “Big Boys”. My wife just said: “I don’t think I’ve ever seen you this excited.” And there’s a good chance that she’s right. Ho…ly…Shnikees!

There are so many amazing things about this game; I don’t even know where to start.

Did I really just see my Tigers shut down a consensus all-American sharp shooter…on his home court? Was I dreaming, or did Memphis just stun the basketball world at the free-throw line for a second game in a row. (Was “Double-A” ice cold under that pressure or what?) Can it be that Jeremy Hunt picked TONIGHT to pull out of his slump & hit the biggest “three” of his career…you remember the one that silenced the horde of Aggie Fans who were going nuts over an Acie Law “three” just moments earlier? (Good-bye slump!) I KNOW we didn’t just beat a Big 12 powerhouse with Dozier on the bench in the first half & Dorsey on the bench in the second did we?

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Jim Lott, Nashville:

Elite 8 two years in a row! What else needs to be said! I am glad that the game is actually played on the floor and not in the media. Congratulations and thanks to this Tiger team. They are the ultimate example of TEAM! I have been sick with the flu all week and have not felt like moving but I can tell you that I could not sit still tonight! It has been a great ride and it's still not over yet. I can't wait to hear all the "experts" analyze tonights game. That is if they even talk about it!

No matter what happens from here on out, this team has staked its claim to being one of the all time best just simply by their sheer will to win. No matter what people are saying, they just go about their business and keep winning. Thanks Tigers for another great game and thanks coach Cal for another great run. Anybody for 3 more wins! I think this may be our Tiger Team of Destiny!

Go Tigers!

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Jody Kane, Memphis:

Can you say Elite 8? You would have thought we were some fly-by-night team, by listening to the inept announcers! I can count on one hand the nice things they said about Memphis, whereas the Aggies were soooo good! It all comes down to the W and the L, and oh, by the way, look who got the W!!!!!

I knew it was going to be a close one. I never doubted that the Tigers would win, but I must say, they made me sweat! Antonio Anderson has been my favorite player since he has been on the team, and tonight, he definitely reminded me why! The entire game, he was missing and I kept saying, "It will come, it will come." (As if he could hear me through the TV.) Well, and how it came!!!! Not bad for the team with the worst free throw percentage in the field of 65! If we hadn't been tested throughout our weak schedule, tonight showed me, without a doubt, that we have what it takes to win the whole thing! Talking about ice!!!! CDR looked good and Jeremy had a great game! I was a bit confused by Pierre Niles' jumper, but hey...guess it probably confused the Aggies a bit too, not to mention Coach Cal!

Anyway, I could go on forever, but I need to start resting up for Saturday! GO TIGERS!!!!!!!

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Alisa D. Williams, Bartlett.:

Oh My God!!!

What an amazing game!!!

The Tigers went in pumped and ready to play and brought this win home for us!

The competitiveness and athleticism was amazing!

Not for one second was I ever worried.

My co-worker, Kay, called me and was almost crying and I told her not to worry. We were gonna do this. And we did!

It was awesome seeing Chris back on the court and he was amazing as ever but my player of this game was Jeremy Hunt. Boy, did he deliver for the team tonight!

Another amazing win by our beloved Tigers!!!

Congrats to Coach Calipari and the boys!!!

Final Four, here we come!

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Kenneth Brasel, Glasgow, Ky.:

Okay Cal, You win...

"Rocky Top, You'll always be home sweet home to me...!" There I did it, took one for the team. Now, back to business. HOW 'BOUT THEM TIGERS!! This game was a close, yet excellent match of two evenly matched teams. It was nice to play a heart thumping close game. I am too excited to even type a long sentence. Someone just called me and said Texas A&M is not from Conference USA. Is that true? Does Dicky Vitale know that one? We beat someone from another conference who had all their star players active? I hope someone from the "established media" can help me with all these questions tonight. I will TIVO tonight the following: ESPN, CSTV, and even those right and left wing media sports nuts. You remember them; this morning some of them were saying "Over-rated," following in the same breath . . . Memphis.

Well fans, I am going to take a deep breath, grab some ice-cream, (Rocky Road) in favor of my new temporary favorite team at least for the next 48 hours. After that, I don't want to hear or read anything nice about Tennessee, that relates to orange. By the way, can someone contact all of those fans who were praying for CDR, we may need some higher intervention after we win it all next week. Tubby is gone from Kentucky and those boys up there are going to start calling.

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Patti Yancey, Bartlett:

OHHHHHH MMMMMMMMMYYYYYYYYY GOOODDDDDNESSSSSSS...........I can't stand any more of this.....OH YES I CAN.....SMILING....
Welll..I can honestly say I HATE games like that...they make me crazy....er.....we fought hard and won...CDR....WOW....DOZIER....SOOOOOOOOOO IMPRESSIVE......KEMP....HUNT.....THANK YOU ALL...I was tired of listening about their best player Law....while he was good...we held him and and the rest of the Aggies....along with all 30,000 of their fans.....Its sooooo sweet being a TIGER.....I NEED AN O2 TANK.....CAN'T WIPE THE SMILE OFF MY FACE....AND I STILL HAVE ON MY BEADS....MY SLEEP IN THEM.....GO TIGERS.....BIA....ELITE 8....2 YEARS IN A ROW...

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Mike Parham, Memphis:

I highly recommend No Country for Old Men by Cormac McCarthy. In its book review, the Memphis Flyer said that it "moves like shadows over the desert....Its surge is hot-blooded [and] the momentum of the book is such that the reader is plunged into the action."

During the entire second half, I was in the bedroom reading this book while my wife watched the game in the living room. At least I made it to halftime this year. During the UCLA game last year, I started walking around the block after about 10 minutes of the first half.

Calipari keeps telling the team to "enjoy the moment." I wish I could take his advice.

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Keith Ellis, Lexington, Ky.:

What a game, what a game. We talked about the best moment of the year, and it has to be tonight, and hopefully a few more nights this year. CDR pushing through the injury, Jeremy Hunt playing above himself, Antonio Anderson hitting the clutch free throws at the end, Dozier with the deflection taking the shortest 1 second off the clock ever, this was a team effort, and nothing else matters. I have never been prouder of the TIGERS then the way they fought tonight, back and forth again and again, and they never said die. What a game. What a game.

And can I also say how proud I was of the TIGER faithful in San Antonio tonight, when you heard DEFENSE over the TV monitor while Texas A&M had the ball with a minute left, and after every timeout T-I-G-E-R-S TIGERS! Way to show up, way to out cheer the Aggies, in their home state. I’m so glad I went to the U of M, singing Glory Hallelujah, I’m so glad!!!

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Patti Yancey, Bartlett:

AUGGHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH....This is killing me.....We can...(and will) beat these guys....(and their friends the refereeeeesss)...we are playing well...not as good as I have seen and know they are capable of ....but hope they get in more of a rhythm and start getting mad....tentative is not the way we play...Very Proud of CDR...all the guys are showing a lot of heart....Hunt seniorism is coming out...will finish this as soon as the game is over....having trouble typing....lol...

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Patti Yancey, Bartlett:

Welll ....I might as well do a little catch up...since I missed a few blogs in the past week....I really wished I was in San Antonio today...the feeling last week was great...the pep rally at the hotel was packed...there were beads everywhere and pompons aflying....you couldn't walk down the street without someone yelling out of their car window...."GO TIGERS...OR GO BLUE'.... we crossed paths with an occasional Green fan or Neveda fan but nothing compared to the numbers we had.....You could buy beads everywhere there (or get them in the notorious way...lol)...and many of the stores carried the string of beads with College symbols on them...Ours has an M with a Tiger clawing over it....wellll.....I guess someone didn't think about who would have the most people there because you could find any team...college or pro... 'cept Memphis... and that was by Thurs night....So I was on a quest...we hit every store both sides of the street from Bourbon Street to Canal to Convention Center Way to the French Market..(I did get some exercise there...) finally, (in the last place I looked..smile)...we went in a little store that had the team beads...looked, as we had gotten so proficient at doing quickly....and was starting to leave when the sales lady asked which team (while we were wearing blue with Memphis Tigers on the front...lol)...upon telling her she reached up and took down the remaining 3 she had...said she had just found them in another group and several people had come in looking for them

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Michelle Beasley, Cordova:

I usually agree with just about everything Cal says...not this time! I am a Tiger fan, I bleed blue and gray. I don't bleed orange!
I have listened to the sports talk radio shows all day. Tiger fans will not be pulling for the Vols. Vol fans will not be pulling for the Tigers.

That is just the way it is, no happy medium. You are either a Tiger or a Vol, not both!

Don't get me wrong, I am not scared of the Vols, I just want them to get beat, and I feel that their tournament will end tomorrow. Even if it doesn't end tomorrow, we will end it for sure on Sat. I look forward to the opportunity of playing Ohio State. Xavier gave them all kinds of trouble, why not Memphis! We can beat A&M and we can beat Ohio St or anyone else that comes along.
I wrote in my blog earlier in the week that I was looking forward to revenge on Tennessee. Although revenge would be sweet, I still can't bring myself to pull for them. I am a true Tiger fan, I will never, ever, ever, ever pull for Tennessee in anything!!!

I can guarantee that Vols fans would never, ever, ever pull for us either. So this time, forget what Cal says...he has no idea what he is talking about! HAHA!!

Love ya Cal!! No hard feelings!

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Alisa D. Williams, Bartlett.:

I think it's awesome that Coach Calipari wants the Vols fans to root for the Tigers. We are playing a Texas team in Texas and we need all of the home-state support we can get! They can root for us and we can root for them.

There's nothing wrong with Tennessee fans supporting another Tennessee team and if we end up playing each other in the Elite 8 then that's just more publicity for the state of Tennessee...excellent idea, Coach!

On a different note, I'm so glad CDR will be playing in the Sweet 16 game. I saw him walking on the news last night and couldn't even detect a limp. I hope he continues to heal so he can lead the Tigers to the Elite 8. But with or without him, we're going!

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Erik Henninger, Birmingham:

Will I pull for UT and Vandy? First, let me just say this: Everybody pulls for Vandy. Hating Vandy is like hating your grandmother. It's just not right.

Tennessee is a different story, but my situation is unique.

I would dare say that the majority of Memphis fans who say they would rather poke themselves in the eye than cheer for Tennessee have one thing in common: They have annoying friends, family and coworkers that are Vols.

Yes, those smack-talking, loud, obnoxious, and unkempt hillbillies that probably never set foot in a UT classroom anyway (or so the stereotypes go).

I don't have that problem. I live in Alabama, therefore I despise Alabama fans. I haven't really lived in Memphis since I graduated high school and started at Samford University here in town.

What I'm trying to say is that absence makes you not really give a rat's. At least when it comes to UT.

However, a recent (and regrettable) trip to Gatlinburg reminded me. Vols have a lot in common with the Bama nation. So, I understand. I just think it would be great to see West Tennessee meet East Tennessee in the Elite Eight.

The Tigers opened spring football practice Tuesday and what was noticeable from the outset was the impact of the new coaches on Tommy West's staff.

Defensive line coach Brent Pry was a non-stop instruction video.

So was cornerbacks coach Derek Jones, the former Ole Miss defensive back who joined the program after spending last year at Tulsa.

It was also interesting to watch longtime assistant Clay Helton in his first day -- on the field -- as offensive coordinator. Helton's style won't be as fiery as Randy Fichtner's, but Helton's a former college quarterback and as good a communicator as West has.

OK folks, how's this for an omen?

The Commercial Appeal contingent of myself, Jim Masilak, Geoff Calkins, Scott Cacciola and photographer Mark Weber arrived in San Antonio at around midnight last night. We took a cab to our hotel and gathered for a late stroll on the Riverwalk.

We happened to stumble into a local establishment with dueling pianos. And what song did they start playing right when we walked in? You got it -- Walking in Memphis.

Eerie stuff, eh?

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Patti Yancey, Bartlett:

Still working on getting my head clear after coming down with strep throat in New Orleans..but....I listened to Cal on his show on Monday night and was really floored when he said we should cheer for them and they should cheer for us....(fat chance of that happening..)...I will watch the game...on TV...to sick to travel this weekend..(awaiting for next)...and will not find myself cheering for the Vols...when Pearl donned the Orange paint and went out and cheered for the Lady Vols I was a little struck by the school spirit that he showed and thought a lot of the reporters came down on him a little hard...this is a sport and these are kids and it should be fun (at least some of the time)....but still..I havent heard anyone from the TN camp say they will pull for us...I will find it hard to cheer for TN...I really want to play them again...on a neutral court to avenge our lack-luster effort previously...Would I like to see an allegiance of sorts...sure...but dont think it will come in time for the game tomorrow...

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Mike Parham, Memphis:

I’ll be like the majority of Tiger fans. I’ll pull for UT if we win, and pull for Ohio State if we lose. The only reasons I would pull for UT are that we would have a better chance of beating them and that we would have the chance to get revenge for the loss in December.

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From David Rubio, Franklin, Tenn.:

The Art of Diplomacy

I LOVE the idea of a “cease-fire” between the UofM fans & the UT fans. Mainly for two reasons: 1.) Our game comes first AND 2.) These games are in San Antonio & WE’RE the ones playing the road game.

First off, whether UT Fans agree to a cease-fire or not is irrelevant. Both OSU & UT fans will be cheering for Memphis come tip-off on Thursday. Thanks to the national media, they’d much rather face a Memphis team that, say it with me: “hasn’t played anybody” than face the daunting task of beating a “tested” A&M team on it’s “home” court. So…whether they WANT to or not, they’ll find themselves rooting for us.

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Jim Lott, Nashville:

Living here in middle Tennessee, I get a full report of UT every day. Being a Memphis graduate, when I first moved here many years ago it used to bother me tremendously! But over the years I have mellowed and though I don't actively follow UT, I do like to hear that they won when they are not playing the UofM. When comparing the two athletic budgets of the prospective schools I think Memphis has done an admiral job of staying in the top tier along with schools from the Southeastern conference. UTs success does nothing to demean ours so I can see rooting for a fellow team from our great State! I know that John is looking at the huge difference in the crowd from A&M and the rest of the schools in San Antonio so I think anything he can do to get more support for us is great. An all Tennessee final in the south region would be an Awesome thing! Everyone always talks about a certain number of conference teams that are in the sweet 16 such a 3 from the SEC but what we have here is 3 teams from the State of Tennessee! I think thats pretty good and I will root for all the Tennessee teams until they play each other and then I'm a true Tiger!

I had to miss a few days of Blogs but I did want to say that once again on Sunday the Tigers played a GREAT TEAM game and even when CDR got hurt they didn't panick and kept right on playing their game. I love this team and hope they continue to win every game that they are not picked to win. I watched hightlights of all the Sunday games on ESPN and our game was almost an afterthought. Of course Dick Vitale had us losing to A&M but that's OK because he had us losing to Nevada! Sweet 16 two years in a row! What else do the Tigers need to do to get respect? I guess winning it all would go a long way! Go Tigers and thanks for another great game!

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Keith Ellis, Lexington, Ky.:

I’d rather be dragged over hot coals wearing highly flammable gasoline soaked clothing then root for the Volunteers. They have enough fans out there in our midst that they don’t need my support. All those Memphians who never stepped foot in a Volunteer classroom, yet still proceed to tell me how much better they are than the University of Memphis should have a reality check. And those University of Memphis students and graduates who continue to support the Volunteers against the Tigers are the worst of all, I have no love for any of you.

Now I agree with Calipari on a lot of issues, Tennessee is not a basketball rival for us, though they are growing quickly, just like (and it pains me to say this) we are not a football rivalry for Tennessee. We should not focus on these regional “rivalry” games as much as the national games where we get notoriety for winning. This is not a slap in the face to anyone, but a win against Ole Miss this year didn’t help us out at all, but if we lose everyone talks about it over and over again. And if Tennessee actually wins in basketball they feel the need to tell everyone about how great they are, but we don’t necessarily chime in as much when we beat them in basketball. The fact is I will not root for Tennessee, they see themselves as the only school in the state, and no one else is worthy, but guess what the University of Memphis deserves just as much credit for it’s accomplishments.

So in response to Cal, I will not root for Tennessee except for the fact that I would love to get another game against them so that we can smack them around over and over and over again, that would make my day.

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Jody Kane, Memphis:

I think John Calipari is an incredible coach and very good at getting what he wants. But, I think he may have gone a bit too far this time, in asking Tiger fans to cheer for the VOLS and Tennessee fans cheer for the Tigers! I don’t think he realizes how deep the division is in this town. Cheering for the VOLS goes against my very being!

I have been in Memphis for over 16 years and I cannot stand the way that VOLS fans look down their noses at the Tigers! I have always rooted for my “hometown” team and since Memphis is my “hometown” team, I started cheering for them. Over the years, I have gone from merely cheering for them to loving them, win or lose! I am a season ticket holder for football and I go to most of the basketball games and before every game, there is an air of excitement for me! My home office is now the Tiger room with autographs and pictures with players, and my wardrobe includes a lot of blue and gray! That being said, as much as I would like to do as Coach Cal asks, I honestly don’t think I can do that. I feel like the Tigers are capable of beating Ohio State and quite honestly, I think it would be a better game to watch.

So…Dane, good luck. That is about as much as I can muster for the VOLS. The bottom line is the Tigers still have to go out and play, regardless of who the opponent is.

GO TIGERS!!!!!!!!

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Felix Caldwell, Memphis:

I wish I could honestly say I can root for the Vols but after the offensive things I read in the Memphis paper voiced by some disgruntled Tennessee fans after they clobbered us in Knoxville I would rather poke myself in the eye than cheer them on Thursday night. I did not say I would root against them. In fact, I would love a chance to play them and avenge our earlier lose. My prediction is Remember the Alamo where a bunch of Texans and some Tennessee boys lost! History will repeat itself on Thursday and we'll be playing Ohio State on Saturday on our way to the Final Four in Atlanta!!!!

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Kenneth Brasel, Glasgow, Ky.:

HOW does that song go?

Cheer for the Tennessee Vols? Pop a cold one in support of Bruce Pearl and his boys, has Cal finally gone off the deep end? I will admit that I ceremoniously let out a hurray for Belmont when it was announced they were returning for back to back showings in the tournament on selection Sunday. What the heck, in the spirit of confessions, I will confess as well to pulling for Louisville against Texas last weekend.

Poor coach Cal must have been caught up in a game of horse in the weight room against Lil' Joey because he definitely busted a blood vessel or two. In order to really support the Vols, you must make the assumption Cal wants us to actually watch the team play. If you watch the team play, you can also make the assumption that the odds are pretty good during the impending 40 minutes of play, some of the Vol players are going to do something right. THEN we all know what happens then. You guessed it. That band breaks out with the damn song. Even the best cold one can't damper that tone. Then you are stuck with that tone the rest of the day.

Come on Cal, focus on winning the games, let Pouncer handle the cheers.

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Andrew Ruhland, Memphis:

Rooting for Tennessee? Never. I will tell you this; I would like to get another crack at them on a neutral court. What a great story for the NCAA tournament: the state that has the highest number of teams in the tournament, sees two of them (probably the largest rivalry of the three) compete for a spot in the Final Four. Even Vitale might have to take his eyes off of the rest of the teams from North Carolina to notice that we know how to play basketball in Tennessee. Though, he’d probably credit it to our proximity to North Carolina, and then begin to pontificate about the greatness of the Coach K run through the tourney. So rooting for the boys from Knoxville, absolutely not. Hoping we get another shot at them in the tournament, absolutely. So maybe I’m rooting against Ohio State? Does that keep me clear of any treason within the Tiger ranks? I am so confused.

The one thing to be sure of, unlike Pitino, Cal and Bruce Pearl are buddies, and would like nothing more for each of their programs to have a rematch like this. So, Cal’s comments are not treacherous, but would put us on the national stage in a much larger way.

Again, say your prayers for CDR, and show your Tiger Pride!

Go Tigers Go!

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Michelle Beasley, Cordova:

Gosh, best moment.....how do you pick just one? I think the best moments of the season were first and foremost the Tigers dominating the conference with an undefeated record and becoming CHAMPIONS of C-USA! The critics can say all that they want, but to go 16-0 is quite an accomplishment and something to be very proud of!!!

Second, do you remember the rim-shaking alley-oop dunk that CDR had against Tulane? I think the forum is still shaking from that one!! What an incredible athlete he is, boy he's GOT GAME!!

The Gonzaga game....need I say more?

Some last thoughts on a memorable season...The Black Tiger uniforms, I think they are a keeper. Coach Cal's press conferences, always a must see!
Future memorable moment.....A Tiger NCAA Championship.........PRICELESS!!!!!!

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Erik Henninger, Birmingham:

It's the same old song and dance for Tiger fans. Everywhere I turn, I hear "Memphis hasn't been tested."

You know, I expected this kind of treatment before the tournament and even before Nevada, but Memphis is now in the Sweet Sixteen and this lazy storyline is getting tired. Suddenly "the experts" are trying to tell us that beating a top ten team (Nevada - AP & USA Today # 10) is not good enough. The double digit drumming was probably just a fluke, right?

After witnessing Memphis's dominance over The Wolf Pack, ESPN's Gene Wojciechowski moved Memphis down to a 3 seed in his recalibrated bracket! Yeah...I know. Do tell, Wojo:

"Maybe it's because I expected more in the North Texas opener (15 point win), or that I thought Nevada would beat the Tigers in the second round (16 point win)"

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Patti Yancey, Bartlett:

It is a little difficult to pick out a favorite part of this season...maybe around the time I realized we were going to be better than a lot of folks were thinking. While I havent been as boisterous as I was last year...I have still wore the Blue proudly and always denied negative conversation to bend my thoughts...another favorite time was when I got to meet Gloria Hunt...she is such a wonderful woman and her strength is what shows in Jeremy...I'm glad I can call her my friend.

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From David Rubio, Franklin, Tenn.:

Heart of a Champion:

Oh, man...it's tough to decide between two plays in the Gonzaga game for my favorite moment of the season.

The whole game was amazing: the place was rockin', Dorsey was a human highlight reel, and we couldn't seem to put them away. Then, it all came down to a defensive stop at the end of regulation. Pargo had the ball...& our defense didn't give an inch. Pargo tried to pass to Raivio...but there was no passing lane. The pressure D came up big in the biggest crunch time our team had seen in 2 months. Is there any team in the country that plays "D" better than these guys?

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Jody Kane, Memphis:

Wow, how can I really pick one favorite moment? That’s a tough task! Every time Joey dunks, I think it is my favorite one. But, then every time Antonio does his thing, I think that is my favorite play. Every NBA 3-point shot that Jeremy hits….I think that’s my favorite! Need I go on? I think that more than anything, the final minute against Nevada was my favorite moment so far this year! I’m short on words today, but not short on dreams of beating Texas A & M and making that my favorite moment to date!

GO TIGERS!

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Keith Ellis, Lexington, Ky.:

For me, the best part of the season so far can easily be identified as the third round of the Maui Invitational when we blasted UK by 17, and I had the opportunity to rub that in everyone around me’s face.

Living in Lexington, KY you can only imagine the amount of grief I get about being a fan for someone other than UK, because that, my friends, is a cardinal sin in these parts. So having to listen to my colleagues and friends 365 days a year about how UK is the best college basketball program around with the most tournament wins, and the most titles gets old. But now until UK beats Memphis (which may be a long time), we rule the roost around here, and I can hang my TIGER banners with pride.

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Mike Parham, Memphis:

It’s hard to say what my favorite moment of the season is. I think the reason is because my expectations have gone up so much this year.

When we went to the Elite Eight last year, it was so exciting because we hadn’t made it that far since Larry Finch was coaching. This year, anything less than the Final Four would be a let down. I guess it’s a tribute to the job Calipari has done with the program.

To answer the question, I would say that my favorite moment was when we beat Gonzaga on the road in overtime. The team really showed character in that game. Other than that, just the fact that we were able to win every conference road game was impressive as a whole.

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Mike Parham, Memphis:

I don't know if I'm following Calipari's advice to "enjoy the moment" or if I'm just tired from the trip to New Orleans, but, regardless of CDR's injury, I'm kind of glad we don't play again until Thursday. I TiVo'd both games, so now I'll have a chance to watch both of them before the next game.

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Erik Henninger, Birmingham:

Is America starting to get the picture?

Memphis just blasted a team with an RPI in the low 20s by 16 points. And they did it with a complete game: points in the paint, point from the arc, and the free throw line. They spread the ball around, they pushed when it needed to be pushed and slowed it down time was on their side. They stayed out of foul trouble, but they still managed to force turnovers. It’s was complete, with the exception of one minor detail.

Most amazing fact: Memphis has shot 39.7% from the field for the tournament and won by a combined 31 points.

Will the media get behind this team? Is playing like an NBA team really what we want? Can CDR really recover that fast? Could San Antonio be worse than Oakland?

These are the thoughts wandering through my head as I countdown to Thursday night…

I’ll be visualizing a win.

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Keith Ellis, Lexington, Ky.:

Three days without basketball, it’s hard to believe the first weekend is already over. I’m going to have to take time this week and review where I went wrong with my brackets, usually I’m in the lead by now, this year near the bottom.

I have to say that this year the wait between the two weekends will likely be easier to manage considering that the team really needs the time to recover this year, especially with CDR hobbled in last night’s game. But that still leaves those days of thinking about how good Texas A&M really is, and can Memphis shut down Acie Law, and will the “home town crowd” in San Antonio be too much for us to overcome, or the fact that we have to listen to the talking heads continue to rail against Memphis for three more days. But in the end, game time creeps closer, and everything will be determined on the court, a place where the TIGERS have really proven themselves so far this year.

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Michelle Beasley, Cordova:

Can't you feel it? Everywhere you go, T-I-G-E-R-S Tigers!!! I am still running on excitement from the game yesterday. As we were driving back from NO, you could feel it all the way up 55 North! Cars honking, people yelling out of windows, pom pons and Memphis flags flying high to celebrate our beloved Tigers, off to the Sweet 16!

Even though I am sooooooooo excited about Thursday, I am equally frustrated that the Tigers are still not recognized as a "legitimate contender". Can the national media cut us a break? Can we get just a little love? They all had us out by the second round. Goes to show what they know.

They also had Texas in the final four!! Now they have us getting blown out because of the injury to CDR. I was sickened when I saw the injury to Chris, but was anyone else impressed at the poise and composure of Antonio, Andre, Robert, Jeremy and Joey? They showed great teamwork and got the job done. Don't get me wrong I hope CDR plays on Thursday, but there is alot of talent on this team, and these guys can win!

Memphis matches up with A&M well. If Memphis can sustain pressure throughout, and keep Law in check, I have no doubt that the Tigers will cruise to the Elite Eight! (We got the free throws down guys, now quit missing layups!!)
All you Tiger Fans, root the team on to victory and pray that Tennessee wins, because I am all up for REVENGE!!!

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From David Rubio, Franklin, Tenn.:

I am a sports talk guy. Whether it's radio, TV, or water cooler scuttlebutt - I LOVE hearing pundits, talking heads, & average fans talking sports: from nonsensical absurdities to logical arguments - it's all fun to hear.

That's why I love the days leading up to the sweet 16.

Remember last year? After dismantling ORU & Bucknell, ALL the talk was that we STILL hadn't played anybody, couldn't stop Bradley's big man & would be the first 1-seed to lose, etc. It was maddening: HOW can these idiots be picking Bradley? Have they even watched our team play? Aren't they aware that we have more Basketball talent on our bench than there is in the entire city of Peoria, Illinois?

And yet, it was AWESOME! Day after day, America was talking about the Memphis Tigers. I LOVED it.

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Alisa D. Williams, Bartlett.:

I am losing my mind!

I watched college basketball for 4 days straight from morning until night and now what?
They want me to wait until Thursday to see my Tigers advance to the Elite 8?

Are you kidding me???

The only good thing about this is that it gives CDR a chance to get that sprain under control and try to be as close to 100% as possible.

Other than that, I would really be mad!!!

Go Tigers!!!

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Andrew Ruhland, Memphis:

Go Tigers Go! Sweet 16 again…now the wait. I guess I would be much more anxious to play sooner, but I am willing to wait a few more days to see if CDR can make it. As much as I hope to see him in the game, I would rather see him rest and heal for the Final Four and let a guy like Mack decide that this next couple of games will be his “here I am NCAA, take note” party. One thing is for sure; I am far from burned out on college basketball, and will be waiting for Thursday with a significant amount of anticipation. The guys are coming together when they need to, and I am more than excited about getting another crack at Tennessee. I had actually hoped that Louisville would make it and we would get a shot at them and UT, but just getting the rematch against UT sets up better than Louisville. Now let’s see if UT can handle The Ohio State.

Say a prayer for CDR and wear your Tiger blue all week. One hell of a rebuilding year!

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Jody Kane, Memphis:

Monday, it’s got to be the worst day of the week! Especially when Memphis fans like me, are coming off such an emotional weekend! Euphoria is overshadowed by concern for Chris Douglas-Roberts and his ability to play in Thursday night’s game against Texas A & M. Of course, I am more concerned for his health, but I can’t help but be concerned about what this injury could mean for the Tigers. It could go either way…the situation could inspire them to play out of their minds for CDR, or they could go the other way and really miss his presence on the court. Let’s hope it is the first of the two!

I have got to say, I am finding it harder to cope with the injury than it is to cope with the wait until Thursday. I actually welcome a few days off so that I can rest up for the game on Thursday. I go through such an emotional rollercoaster while watching the games. I am so passionate and I feel like I know the players all like I know some of my friends! When they hurt, I hurt and when they experience joy, I experience joy! If I can’t be at the game, I usually watch the games from the quiet of home so that I can see every play and hear every call! The Tigers have become “MY TEAM” since I have lived in Memphis. I truly bleed blue now and wouldn’t want it any other way!

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Chad Langstraat, Memphis:

That game was definitely worth the wait! I fell asleep last night while I was reading a book. It was a little after 9pm. I woke with a start at 3:30 in the morning. I ran out into the living room and started watching.

I have been using my DVR all season. I usually watch the game about 30 minutes behind. This way I can fast forward through commercials, the other team's instant replays, and usually the Tigers free throws. I was amazed to see them hit 76.5% from the line. I actually rewound some of Joey's free throws just to hear the announcer say, "That was a pure stroke."

What a great game! It was so impressive to see everyone pick up their game when CDR went down. My hat is off to Dozier for fantastic defense, Anderson for an overall fantastic game, and Joey for... well... being Joey.

Some important things have come up for this coming weekend so I won't be able to make it to San Antonio. I will just have to yell so loud that maybe the Tigers will hear me from Memphis. Anyway, I'll just start making plans to go to Atlanta next weekend. Da da da da... Go Tigers Go!

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Kenneth Brasel, Glasgow, Ky.:

Making the Right Decision

Okay, good news is we are in the Sweet 16; bad news is now what what? My work week starts in 1 hour and I want to be in San Antonio by Thursday. I need one hell of an excuse, a really good one. Not since grade school have I had to come up with a really truly good one to get out of something... The truth won't work this time. Basketball Tournament? Sweet 16?

I know CDR is hurt and will get the best care he can in Memphis. I know the team will be practicing hard to get ready for this weekend. I know the Middle East is still in conflict but I am focused on my problem right now, to go or not go. As a fan, I feel we all owe a sense of deb to the team, to support them in every way possible. How many opportunities does a guy have to sneak off for a long week-end and enjoy himself, and at the same time do something supportive?

The work week starts now, I guess I need start thinking hard on that excuse...

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Erik Henninger, Birmingham:

Gonzo Tiger Blogging - Nevada Game

1) I come into the game late because CBS is a bunch of Communists.

2) It's clear Fazekas has never been heads up with athletes like Dorsey and Co. In the first few minutes Dorsey has already altered a shot, Dozier blocked him, and he's had the ball stolen from him a few times.

3) Memphis is flying to the ball and fast breaking all over the place, however Nevada is keeping pace.

4) Fazekas with another turnover, next possession for Nevada = pressure induced turnover. They don't get the pleasure of playing teams like this every week in the WAC. I recall that Nevada's coach compared The Tigers to a NBA team. I love it!

5) Prediction: Nevada WILL NOT be able to hold this pace with Memphis. The Tigers will pull away big, late in the game.

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Mike Parham, Memphis:

It was a bitter-sweet victory on Sunday. Jeremy came out of his shooting slump from the 3 and Robert Dozier continued to elevate his level of play for the big dance.

Joey lost a lot of playing time due to foul trouble. The main problem for me was that both of his fouls in the first half were from terrible calls. The first was an offensive foul that resulted from a complete flop by Fazekas. The second was a defensive foul when Joey was standing completely still with his hands straight up in the air, just like coaches tell you to do.

Kareem has been getting that call a lot this year. It's frustrating when a player uses good defensive technique, but gets a foul anyway.

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Michelle Beasley, Cordova:

What a game!!!!! The Tigers proved once again that they are a force to be reckoned with. Intense defensive pressure, great free throw shooting, and the 10,000 Tiger fans that showed up sums up their road to the Sweet 16.

This game was closer than the final score, but the Tigers were still clearly the better team. The team looked crisp at times, but still needs to work on their lay-ups. I was very impressed with the teams togetherness after CDR left with an ankle injury. As I head back to Memphis with no voice and a broken pom pon, I am ecstatic that the Tigers are heading into the Sweet 16. As excited as I am now, I hate the fact the Tigers have to play Texas A&M in Texas. The Tigers better bring their "A" game, and if they play as intense as they did today they will be heading towards the Elite 8. Tiger fans be proud of your team, and the Tigers should be proud of the thousands that showed up to root them on to the Sweet 16!!!!!

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Alisa D. Williams, Bartlett.:

Ok...for Clark and Seth of CBS Sports and everyone who said Memphis would go down in this round, I have one word for you....phlbbbtttt!!!!

OK, that's not a word but who cares? The Tigers have more than shown that they have what it takes to make it to the Final Four.

Even when Chris Douglas-Roberts got hurt, I wasn't worried, because Memphis is not one of those teams who relies on one key player. Our bench goes very deep and that's exactly why we are still in this tournament. And the free throw shooting today...outstanding!!!!

These boys have made my day and I cannot wait until Thursday when they advance to the Elite Eight!!!

Excellent job, Coach Cal!!!

Go Tigers!!!!

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Keith Ellis, Lexington, Ky.:

BLACKEDOUT!! I can't even explain how frustrating the last 2.5 hours have been. I got 5 minutes of the first half and 5 minutes of the second, and a ticker on the top for the rest. I have 2 CBS stations, and do either of them carry a different game, no! But we won, and that's all that matters, next Thursday, I'll have to find somewhere to watch the game, even if it is just on my computer, because I'm betting KU/SIU gets the coverage.

I'll be here in Lexington for the game, wishing my schedule allowed me to travel to Texas.

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From David Rubio, Franklin, Tenn.:

5:20pm - Just heard from 2 friends in Nashville that they're showing the Kentucky game on CBS...suckers!!!

5:28pm - Man! No matter what we do, these guys just won't go away!

5:38pm - CDR is down...and it looks bad.

5:59pm - Dozier, I take it ALL back!!! (Dozier's 2 Strong rebounds look to seal the game.)

6:02pm - I just hollered at Andy Katz!!

6:08pm - Holy Shnikees...we just held the wolfpack TOTALLY scoreless for the final 6:17 of the game! Total defensive dominance...

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Kenneth Brasel, Glasgow, Ky.:

Was I the only one to hear this announcer mumble something about the Memphis Tigers being "under the radar" this year? This third string announcer must have a side gig playing that bearded guy in those Geico commercials; talk about someone hiding in a cave all season! 30 wins, longest winning streak in that nation, what a lame comment for this guy to make in the final minutes of the game.

So it is on to the Alamo and a show-down with some other team who doesn't have one of the worst free throw records in the nation, or doesn't come from a lousy conference. Maybe it will be any of those teams that ran off to the Big East a couple of years ago... < just checked my handy dandy CBS bracket and they aren't there anymore! >

Maybe these pundits can write some new stuff so we do not get the same boorish dialgue concerning our team. Maybe we sould just gather up our Mardi Gras beads, take our sweet sixteen t-shirts, grab some of the brass instruments from one of these parades here, and just march into the Alamo blowing our own horn. Maybe, Maybe, Maybe...

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Jody Kane, Memphis:

To hear the commentators calling the game in the beginning, you would think that Memphis was chopped meat. Not too many kind words were said. They didn't even do their homework enough to know that the crowd was saying "COOP, COOP" and not "BOO"! Hmmm, seems like lack of respect to me!

By the end of the game, there were a few nicer comments, albeit not many! Our free throw shooting has come out of hibernation at the right time and believe me, the subject was visited quite frequently during the game. So...Memphis Tigers...under the radar for most of the year...how sweet it is to be one of the 16 teams to still be in the tournament! John Calipari for Mayor of Memphis! He said something to do with it not mattering what anyone says or said about us, we still have to go out and play ball. Well, play ball we did!!!! I wish I could say I had no doubts, but they kept me on the edge of my seat for most of the game. They kept their cool and took control like any great team does! I touched on greatness in one of my earlier posts and I honestly believe that greatness for this team is within reach! GO TIGERS!

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From David Rubio, Franklin, Tenn.:

2:45pm - Just sat down w/ Dad (3rd row). Florida JUST took the lead...man, from here these guys look big.

3:15pm - 2 thots: Horford is way better than Noah & Noah's chest-pounding & screaming is even more qnnoying in person. I didn't know that was possible.

3:55pm - Moved to the front row behind tigers 1st Half basket!!! Starters just announced...wow, is this place covered in Tiger Blue!! Won the tip...C'mon!!!

4:06pm - Hunt for THREE!!!

4:12pm - 11-8 Tigers...too many misses at the rim!!!

4:45 - Halftime Thoughts:

1. We're up by 18 if we convert around the basket...very frustrating.

2. Fazekas hasn't shot well, which is scary. If he gets hot...& it FEELS like he may...we could be in a dogfight.

3. Seemed like the foul calls went against us with regularity...is that b/c I'm a Memphis fan?

4. This doesn't seem like a team that should beat us, but...

5. ...it feels a little like the UT game earlier in the year the way we're missing so many shots around the basket.

Go Tigers Go!!!

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Chad Langstraat, Memphis:

As part of my Sabbath Day observance and part of my religious beliefs my family does not watch TV on Sunday. Thus my anticipation is growing as the minutes pass.

I am trying to keep myself occupied by reading uplifting books and listening to wholesome music. I just returned from church and choir practice. I guess it is times like these that test you the most.

I have the game being recorded on my DVR and will probably wake up early tomorrow morning to watch it. I mean REALLY early. I already wake up at 5 for work. I guess it is the price you pay for your beliefs. A sacrifice I am happy to make. Please just make sure not to tell me the score! I am so excited! I hope I can sleep tonight.

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From David Rubio, Franklin, Tenn.:

I'm Headed to New Orleans Baby!!!

Well, that's it...my dad is the greatest dad on the planet! Just when it looked as if all hope was lost & I'd be forced to watch the Tigers dismantle Nevada on TV...the phone rang. My dad, calling from Memphis, was on the line - ready to drop everything & make the trek to the Big Easy with his sports-crazed son!!! Are you kidding me?!?

There are only two things that can get me as excited as that phone call made me: Corky's dry ribs & date night with my wife...well...maybe three things...er...

Anyway, I am officially on my way to cheer the Tigers on to victory in my Kelly Wise/Cedric Henderson jersey.

And all I have to say is: Fazekas, Fashmeekas!

Go Tigers Go!!!

We're just two minutes away from tip-off of Mitchell-Liberty II

Guess you could really call it Mitchell-Liberty III if you count Liberty's 80-67 regular-season win over the Tigers this year......

Starting lineups Mitchell - Fr. G Mardracus Wade, So. F Evan Devould, Jr. F Darrell Neal, Jr. G Jarvis Jones, Jr C Lewis McCaster

Liberty - Sr. G Jewaun Long, Sr. F Josh Sain, Sr. F Devon Jones, Sr. F Antwan Long, Sr. G Anthony Sampson

----------------------------------------------------
Early in the first quarter
Liberty already with two offensive rebounds, and Jewaun Long's putback gives Crusaders an early 2-0 lead....Liberty can punish teams on the boards, and Mitchell's been outrebounded by a combined 30 in two tournament games. How they fare on defensive boards tonight definitely something to keep an eye on.....Josh Sain scores on putback to make it 4-0 Liberty......make it 6-0 with 5:52 left now following Antwan Long layup....timeout Mitchell with 5:50....doesn't look good early.

2:04 left in first quarter
Wondering if this is looking as one-sided on television as it is here in the arena....5-3 Anthony Sampson just skied for a rebound....that should let you know how things are going....Liberty already with 13-8 advantage on boards, and 10 of its 19 points are of the second-chance variety.....Mitchell 3-of-13 from field to start....

End of first quarter....Liberty 22, Mitchell 8
Unbelievable....Liberty really is a well-oiled machine. Taking Tigers to woodshed after one. Liberty is 10-of-23 from field, and Josh Sain already has 10 points on 5-of-9 shooting. Another bad sign: Sixth-man Ken Torry appears to have lost his head, picking up a technical foul for arguing...his second foul...he's on bench...exactly what Mitchell didn't need down 14

6:52 left in second quarter
Liberty taking its time now, and Crusaders called for offensive foul.....foul on DeVon Jones, his third, and he's forced to bench....Mitchell should start going inside immediately with the 6-6 senior out...

5:09 left in second quarter
Liberty coach Dexter Williams has actually called timeout, mad that his players didn't box out McCaster on a putback that makes it 30-16, Liberty.......14 second-chance points already for Crusaders.....

4:38 left in second quarter
Anthony Sampson goes to line with Crusaders now in bonus....makes 1-of-2......31-16, Liberty....A. Long called for blocking foul on other end...Liberty isn't deep, so if Long picks up a third with Jones already with three, could be big for Mitchell.....

3:16 left in second quarter
No good news here. Liberty with its biggest lead now at 36-17.....Torry off bench to see if he can give Tigers a spark......A. Long layup makes it 38-17 Liberty, and another Crusader steal leads to Sain layup

End of first half.....Liberty 47, Mitchell 27
Trying to find positives for Mitchell in this one is like trying to find a bright side to having a terminal illness.....I've seen some good basketball teams, but this Liberty team certainly lives up to its hype. Crusaders are 20-of-40 from field, and have outrebounded Mitchell, 27-19.....Josh Sain with 17 point already for Liberty.....Darrell Neal's seven points lead Mitchell, which is shooting just 33.3 percent from field......Tigers also have 10 turnovers...maybe Jerry Johnson's team can at least make it respectable in the second half, because this one would appear to be over......It looks lke it too from the look on the Mitchell players' faces as they come up for second-half warm-ups....Tigers can take comfort in fact that tournament's scoring margin record doesn't appear to be in jeopardy. Meigs County beat South Fulton by 51 points in 1962.

Early in third quarter
Torry starting third quarter for Tigers.....Jarvis Jones, who's 0-of-4 from field, starts second-half on bench...Liberty picks up where it left off......Devon Jones fouled on basket for potential 3-point play...makes FT....50-27, Liberty

4:43 left in third quarter
60-38 Liberty following media timeout....Got a reply that perhaps I shouldn't be making predictions on the outcome of this one.....I can assure you, I'm usually not into making predictions, but with 4:02 left in this one and Mitchell now trailing, 62-38, I'm going to make an exception in this case. It's over. Liberty far too good, but you're right, Johnson has done a fantastic job with these Tigers, who've won eight in a row since their city-championship defeat at the hands of Washington

2:03 left in third quarter
Timeout Mitchell, trailing, 72-42.....Darrell Neal sulking now for Tigers after being pulled....he's sitting now on end of bench away from team with Mitchell players up in the huddle, tears coming out of his eyes...Ken Torry makes layup and gets fouled for potential 3-point play..makes FT, but Sain scores on other end...he's got 32 points and 13 rebounds...just dominating this game

End of third quarter...Liberty 78, Mitchell 47
Liberty has actually pulled its starters...Sain gets a standing ovation as he comes out with 34 points and 14 rebounds...He's bene unstoppable....Liberty now has its five senior starters out...Guess Dexter Williams wants his other guys to get a taste of this.

5:12 left in fourth quarter
Wow!! Liberty bringing its five starters back in.....Guess Williams isn't beyond running it up after all. Well, I guess we should consider there's still 5:12 left in this quarter. These five seniors don't want to call it a career after just three quarters, especially Sain, who can add to his already gaudy numbers and MVP campaign

1:48 left in fourth
Liberty fans screaming "We got another one!!," referring to their second state title in as many seasons....Earlier cheer was "RE-PEAT!! RE-PEAT!!!!!"

It's over....Liberty 89, Mitchell 70
It wasn't even close...Crusaders earn their second consecutive Class AA state title, and probably their last for a while considering they lose all five starters.....
Josh Sain named tournament MVP, and rightfully so following 34-point, 14-rebound performance.....Mardracus Wade, Ken Torry and Darrell Neal named all-tourney for Mitchell, which finishes its season at 26-13........

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From David Rubio, Franklin, Tenn.:

Today is going to be a GREAT day!

My “off-day” will be filled with back-to-back tourney games, my wife’s Taco Soup, hoops with my kids during breaks in the action & one big to-do item: find someone to make the 16 hour round-trip to New Orleans with me tomorrow! That’s it. And that’s enough.

My plan all week has been to drive to N.O. this weekend for game #2 (what better way to spend my birthday money?), but as the week has progressed, all of my road trip cohorts have backed out. Now I’m staring at the strong possibility of either driving 16 hours alone in a 21 hour span or NOT going at all. Why me? Is there anybody out there with words of wisdom/thoughts on my predicament? Should I stay or should I go…now?

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Mike Parham, Memphis:

Coming to New Orleans for the basketball tournament this year is a lot different than coming down for the New Orleans bowl in 2003. The main difference, of course, is Hurricane Katrina.

When we were here for the New Orleans Bowl, we stayed in the Hyatt next to the Super Dome. Before the game, the mall between the hotel and the Super Dome was packed with fans. Now, both the Hyatt and the mall are closed. I hope they can open again soon.

Another difference is that with the New Orleans Bowl, we hadn't been to a bowl game in 30 years. We were excited just to be here. The fact that we were in pre-Katrina New Orleans just added to the fun.

This year, we're not happy just to be here. We're here on business.

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Keith Ellis, Lexington, Ky.:

After the first two days of what everyone knows is the best weekend in sports is over, it's hard to even think about getting back into a different routine. I can't wait to see if Xavier can beat Thad Matta and his new club, or if Louisville can ride this "home game" to the sweet 16, these are the most pressing issues of the day, and everything else should take a back seat. The only problem is, my family must not share the same love of college basketball that I have, because my cousin has scheduled his wedding for 3:00 today, and I have to drive three hours to get there. Now this is a Methodist service, so it should be done by 3:15, but there is no TV in our church, and I kind of figure my wife may not be too happy if I make her leave the reception for a sports bar option instead, lets hope it's cake and punch and not a sit down dinner.

A lot of things have changed since last year's run to the elite eight, last year it seemed like every waking minute between games was torture, this year it's a little easier to manage, I'm not as nervous about the games as last year seemed, a little looser maybe. I hope this carries over to our team in New Orleans too, as they prepare for a tough secong round match up (Nevada was also ranked in the top ten for much of the year).

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Jody Kane, Memphis:

What will I be doing on the "Off Day"? I will be kissing the blarney stone, saying every Irish blessing I can think of and maybe even throwing in a hex on Nevada! Yesterday was scary...and exhilirating...and exhausting! I will also be celebrating St. Patrick's day on my "off day". Basketball will be on the TV from the time it starts until the last game is over. It's March Madness, for pete's sake! Let's hope Antonio, CDR, Joey, and the rest of the guys are watching basketball (Nevada tapes) and resting and holding off on the celebration! They will need all of the strength, talent, and poise they can muster to run the rest of the way through the tournament and to find the end of their (and our) rainbow called the National Championship!

May the Luck of the Irish (no not Notre Dame), be with you!

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Erik Henninger, Birmingham:

Memphis always seems to play the Friday/Sunday slate, as opposed to the Thursday/Saturday. Not sure if that's good or bad, but I wish they were playing today.

Today, I'll get some work done around the house and occasionally peak at the other games. Later I'll read up on Nevada and what the "experts" are saying about The Tigers. I don't know why I even bother. I guess I do it to get me fired up for the game.

People here in Birmingham seem to think that this year's tournament is dull and unwatchable. Wow, could that be because there's not a single solitary team from this state in The Big Dance? Alabama fans, especially Crimson Tide fans, think that the whole sport of basketball is experiencing "a down year" when, in actuality, their team just bites. It's all part of a whole egocentric/redneck phenomenon I deal with on a daily basis down here in "The Heart of Dixie."

Meanwhile, Basketball in the state of Tennessee is thriving. All three major universities are in the round of 32. Has that ever happened? The way Vandy, UT and Memphis played in the first round, I wouldn't be surprised if all three made the sweet 16. Wouldn't that be something?

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Michelle Beasley, Cordova:

I am from New Orleans originally, so this is a second home to me. I have to say Memphis should be proud of the support I have seen here for the Tigers!! Everywhere that you turn you see Tiger Blue. Whether it be shirts, hats, feather boas and beads, the Tiger spirit is all over the Big Easy!!

We went to all the games yesterday, and the Tiger fan base by far is bigger than any other team here, even Florida!!

I am looking forward to all the fans making noise at the tiger game tomorrow!! Now, off to Cafe Du Monde for some Beignets and Coffee!!!!!

GOOOOOOOOOOOO TIGERSSSSSSSSSSSSSS!!!!!

Say this for Jerry Johnson and his Tigers: they have quieted all the pundits and so-called high-school basketball prognosticators who believed there was no way a Tiger team that lost 11 seniors from the year before, including a monster in McDonald's All-American Thaddeus Young, could make it back to the state-title game.

Sure, Mitchell's talented, long and athletic this season, but it's Johnson's loud, militant style that's driving this 06-07 squad. These young Tigers fear him. Last year's team - with three Division 1 signees and a bunch of other seniors who all along wished they were getting the attention drawn by their more heralded teammates - did not, probably because of their senior status or the vultures in their ears. Who cared about Johnson's yelling then? Those guys were on their way to bigger and better things.

Now, with a team that starts a freshman, a sophomore and three juniors, Johnson's got a group that is finally listening, like his Class AA state-title winning Kingsbury squad did back in 1998. The Tigers enter Saturday's championship game in the exact opposite fashion they did last year, playing this time as the underdog against a more heralded, nationally ranked Liberty team.

Oh sure, it would be a helluva story for Mitchell to win it, but just look at the numbers:

First, Liberty handled Mitchell quite easily in an 80-67 regular-season victory over the Tigers on Jan. 15 at FedExForum. Second, Mitchell has been outrebounded this week in two tournament games by a combined 101-71 margin (including 44-24 on the offensive glass). Thirdly, the Tigers are an abominable 25-of-54 on the free-throw line in two tournament games.

Against Liberty, a team that expects to win today's 5 p.m. final, that simply won't cut it. If Johnson's Tigers are to earn the school's first basketball state title (Mitchell has finished runner-up twice in 2006 and 1987), it'll take more than his yelling and screaming on the sideline.

There'd better be some boxing-out and some better shooting from the charity stripe or it'll be a long, quiet ride home back to Memphis. Talk to you all tomorrow.

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Felix Caldwell, Memphis:

As far as the Tigers lackluster performance today, overall one thing was clear. I think I can speak for the Tiger faithful here in New Orleans that there is only one way to spell heart and that's A-N-D-R-E.

He is much maligned by the basketball pundits for being too short, too poor a shooter -- both long range and from the line -- and not a Final Four worthy point guard. Still somehow Andre raises his level of play as he did in last year's tourney and again today. He is the single reason we won by his sheer will to win. He made our first three, he repeatedly disrupted th offense of North Texas creating opportunities for his teammates or driving to the hoop when we needed a bucket. Finally he made free throws like no one expects him to do. What a gutty performance! I don't care how it's spelled in Webster's. In my book its A-N-D-R-E.

Our Tiger Bloggers will give us their thoughts throughout the University of Memphis' run through the NCAA Tournament

From Mike Parham, Memphis:

Here are my impressions of Day One in New Orleans. First, New Orleans is NOT ready to host an NCAA tournament. The arena is clearly not up to par. The concession areas aren't fully functional, the scoreboards aren't working properly, and it is not properly staffed.

Players were slipping all over the place during the Memphis game and later during the Nevada/Creighton game. Once, a referee called for a towel to clean up some sweat and they didn't have one. Finally, one of the managers from the Tigers went over and wiped it up. They had some kids who were supposed to be sweeping, but they were mostly moving dust around. I just hope nobody gets hurt because of it. Good luck with the NBA All-Star Game.

6:09 left in first quarter
Both teams have knocked down 3-pointers and we're tied at 3. Mitchell just called for its second team foul...no biggie....Tigers have shown already this tournament they can go 9-11 deep.....Steal by Mitchell, up to Darrell Neal, who's called for traveling....still tied, 3-3

4:22 left in first quarter
Jarvis Jones drains a 3-pointer to give Mitchell a 6-5 lead......Jones pulls up from deep again on Mitchell's next possession, but misses....this one's up-and-down the court, sort of like watching a tennis match....be interesting to see if I can keep up...Mardracus Wade headed to line for Mitchell with 3:51 left..makes first, misses second....

2:33 left in first quarter
Mitchell now leading, 14-7, on a 3-pointer by Darrell Neal, who's playing particularly well this tournament. Mitchell now on a 9-0 run, leading 16-7 on Mardracus Wade basket

50.5 left in first quarter
Chance Jones to line for two FTs with Mitchell leading, 16-11.....misses first....makes second...Mitchell by four....Tigers 6-of-12 from the field when J. Jones hits deep 2 to make it 18-11....

End of first quarter...Mitchell 18, Austin East 14
Mitchell 7-of-13 from the field in first quarter, but has committed eight turnovers trying to push the pace.....Austin East, as advertised, seems comfortable trying to run with Tigers

7:23 left in second quarter
Ken Torry's middle name should be "The Microwave"....Mitchell's sixth-man extraordinaire steals the inbounds pass and gets a reverse to put Mitchell back up, 22-16.....Neal leads Mitchell with eight points, but Torry, who had 25 off the bench in Mitchell's quarterfinal win, hasn't gotten rolling - yet.

6:23 left in second quarter
Justin Walker bucket inside makes tightens score to, 22-20. ....Torry fouled on other end for Mitchell, and makes 1-of-2....23-20, Mitchell, which has been called for seven team fouls to AE's four.

5:43 left in second quarter
"The Microwave" starting to heat up......Torry gets a 3-point play opportunity after being fouled on drive to the hole....free throw good, but waived off on lane violation on Mitchell,.....25-20, Tigers

5:17 left in second quarter
Tough swing for Mitchell, which isn't boxing out on defensive glass.....Chase Jones misses two FTs, but AE gets offensive rebound before Jamal Lundy buries a 3-pointer to make it 25-23, Mitchell.....

3:52 left in second quarter
Mitchell commits its 10th turnover of half, leading 27-25......Justin Walker sent to line for Austin East, which is now in double bonus....makes 1-of-2....Mitchell steal leads by 1

2:48 left in second quarter
Just when Tiger offense appeared to be bogging down, Torry finds a way to get to FT line, as he's fouled underneath....misses first, though....makes second.....28-26, Mitchell

2:02 left in second quarter
Mitchell getting killed on offensive glass....don't have totals in front of me, but AE ties it up on a putback by Trevil Prior.....28-28

1:15 left in second quarter
Jamal Lundy 2-pointer gives AE its first lead since it was 5-3 early in the first quarter.....AE up, 31-30, and Trevil Prior fouled and makes basket for potential 3-po