Just got back from today’s final practice, which seemed to go well. There is definitely a different feel, a more serious tone, a more focused message for games like this one. The Tigers were locked in to every word coach John Calipari said, and if they lose tomorrow, it won’t be for lack of preparation.
Forward Shawn Taggart (right knee) did a lot of things today in practice — pretty much everything, really — so I would expect to see him play tomorrow night. I am not sure how many minutes or what kind of impact, but he did not appear to be too limited.
Meanwhile, the team was awaiting the arrival of Tyreke Evans, who was scheduled to depart Philadelphia this afternoon to begin his official visit. Two of his brothers were already here and watched practice. I’ll have some more info on his visit in tomorrow’s paper. Also, Wesley Witherspoon will be in attendance — he’s the forward from Atlanta who Memphis is recruiting for 2008 — as well as Angel Garcia, who has already signed. Plus, the top local kids will be there.
in Tiger Basketball
Responses to “Taggart should be ready to go”
February 22nd, 2008 at 4:54 pm
Thanks for the update, Dan… I was worried about Taggart. Hopefully the game tomorrow will convince both Evans and Witherspoon to commit to Memphis, and with Garcia and Simpkins on board, we would have a perfect recruiting class for next year in case some of our players decide to leave for the NBA along with Dorsey.
February 22nd, 2008 at 5:41 pm
I’m just glad the hype comes to an end and we’ll finally get to decide the outcome where it really matters - on the court.
Look forward to your next post.
February 22nd, 2008 at 6:00 pm
Dan, I’ve been listening to Sports Talk all day and everyone sounds like they are keyed up.
A lot of the National Media that has been on the Radio are picking Tennessee to win. One guy from the New York Times even predicted the Vols to win the National Championship. Everyone is entitled to an opinion so here is mine. Tennessee has a tough week ahead and they usually don’t play as well on the road. I think Pearl will be looking to see who he can count on to step up in pressure situations more than actually trying to go all out and win it. He will be coaching as hard as he can, just like he always does. I just don’t see him adding pressure of pinning a win on his team’s shoulders.
Calipari is doing the same thing. As long as he is talking about seceding from the state and talking about this being an ego game, he is deflecting pressure from his team. Curious of your thoughts.
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