Game 47
(12/30/09)
Illini West vs. Metamora (Boy's Basketball)
Macomb-Western Holiday Tournament (3rd Place)
Third place is on the line between the Illini West Chargers and Metamora Redbirds. Jim Youngman has provided the best lines on the bench from the coaches.
The underdog Chargers jumped out to a 13-7 lead after the first quarter. Trey Bartlett provided a spark for IW, with a pair of field goals and a free throw in the opening eight minutes. The Redbirds struggled from the field all game long.
At halftime, it was Illini West by five points (18-13). The Chargers were boosted by a couple three-pointers in the third quarter, one by Cody Carson, and another by Bartlett. Metamora trailed after three quarters, 31-22. Only one field goal was made by the Redbirds in the fourth quarter, a three-pointer by J.D. Kamp, and another field goal by Alex Nelson. Metamora finished (11-43) from the field (25.6%), falling 43-30.
Jacob Schmudlach scored a game-high 14 points for the Chargers, and also pulled down 9 rebounds. His younger brother, Drake, had 9 points, 7 rebounds, 3 assists. Trey Bartlett finished with 8 points. Metamora was led by J.D. Kamp, with 12 points, 4 rebounds, 2 steals. Alex Nelson pitched in 8 points, 3 rebounds for the Redbirds.
My broadcast day was over. The next game was for the tournament championship, pitting the hometown Macomb Bombers against the Canton Little Giants. Following the IW/Metamora game, I had seven of my ten all-tournament selections picked out. It all depended on the final game (first half), who would be added. Macomb, in the past few years, has had a different players step up in each game of the tournament, making it very hard to put just one or two on the ballot.
My picks from Macomb early on were between Alex Roberts and Tyler Thorman, and quite possibly Alex Heille if he had a really good first half against Canton. Jordan Fouts was the clear-cut favorite from Canton, and my favorite for MVP of the tournament.
With Canton jumping out to a huge lead after the first quarter, Jordan Fouts easily became my MVP of the tournament. I was still undecided on whether or not to put another Canton player on or not. By halftime, I decided to place Tyler Thorman from Macomb, and just Fouts (MVP) from Canton. I put a player from 10 different teams on my ballot. A late addition was Garrett Robbins of Barry Western. He was the odd-man out, if more than one was placed from Macomb or Canton. My other players to make the 10-man ballot were; Danny Harman (Illini Central), Logan Harris (Pleasant Plains), Ryan Runge (West Hancock), Jacob Schmudlach (Illini West), J.D. Kamp (Metamora), Brad Hamilton (Pittsfield), and Brandon Fisher (Midwest Central).
Turned the ballot in at halftime of the championship game, then went over and talked with B-PC/A head coach Matt Colston and B-PC Athletic Director Stan Prentice. I decided to not shave for about two weeks, and Colston asked me, "What's with the facial hair, you starting a boy band?" No boy band, just laziness and curiosity, lol.
Despite a valiant comeback attempt by Macomb, a 16-point deficit (32-16) in the second half was too much to overcome. The Bombers made it a 3-point game at one point, but the Little Giants would finish off Macomb (52-42) for the title. Zach Grover went (5-6) from the three-point line, leading the comeback charge.
After the game I spoke with Dan Rouse, the Bombers statistician. He is looking for a place where he can find past All-State selections in football and basketball. If you know where these records can be found, please email me at beauspencer82@hotmail.com.
Also talked with Macomb football coach and my former broadcast partner Kelly Sears, and K100 play-by-play voice Kipp Jones, and chatted with Brian Sullivan, one of the stat guys for many years at the tournament before heading out. Decided to head to the Sports Corner @ 124 to wind down after many, many hours of work over the three-day tournament. I won't divulge the conversations that took place!
The Quest File Notes
Game 47
Date: 12/30/09
Result: Illini West pulls off the upset in 3rd place game, downing Metamora (43-30)
Miles: 0
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Game 46: Brown County vs. Pittsfield (Boy's Basketball)
Game 46
(12/30/09)
Brown County vs. Pittsfield (Boy's Basketball)
Macomb-Western Holiday Tournament
Following the opening game, I had a few minutes to fill out the scorebook for the second game and broadcast between the Pittsfield Saukees and Brown County Hornets. Brown County knocked off number three seed Lewistown the night before on a buzzer-beater in overtime, while the Saukees easily cruised past B-PC/A, at one point leading 42-3.
Pittsfield jumped out to an early lead, but Brown County took a 11-10 lead with 0:40 to play in the first quarter. That would be the only lead the Hornets would hold in this game. Taylor Kattelman hit a three-pointer in the final seconds to boost Pittsfield to a 13-10 lead after one quarter.
It was all Saukees in the second quarter, going on an 11-0 run, before a Nathan Goudschaal free throw broke the scoring string. Pittsfield led at halftime, 25-15. Jacob Wilson scored 9 points in the first half for the Hornets, while the Saukees were led by Dalton Hoover's 8 points.
More of the same in the third quarter, as Pittsfield outscored Brown County 17-10, and led 42-25 heading into the fourth quarter. Matthew Chaney hit a couple three-pointers in the fourth quarter, as the team managed 12 points in the final frame. Pittsfield would beat Brown County 57-37.
Pittsfield had a balanced scoring attack, behind Jordan Cawthon's 13 points, Brad Hamilton with 12 points, and Dalton Hoover with 12 points. The Hornets were paced by Matthew Chaney and Jacob Wilson, each with 9 points.
After the broadcast, I needed a little down time before starting the Wednesday schedule and scoreboard. Talked with McDonough Voice sports writer Mitch Worley and West Prairie Cyclones basketball coach Kellen Fernetti, in town to watch the action. Then I retreated upstairs to the hospitality room, where the man in charge of it, Steve Hensley gave me grief about my Monday night picks, in which I went 0-3 on my picks, and additionally called the entire consolation bracket wrong (I had Pleasant Plains vs. Lewistown for the consolation title).
Went back down to press row to fill out the schedule and scoreboard. The next game on tap at Western Hall was (1:00) for Canton and Metamora. Depending on how the bracket would fall, it appeared that my day of broadcasting was over.
Canton would beat Metamora pretty handily, another surprise. After the game, talked with WMBD cameraman Robert Hahn in the hospitality room. He filmed the Canton/Metamora game and was headed off to the Manual girl's tournament in Peoria. Also spoke with my old buddy Dana Nissen from Macomb, he was helping out man the hospitality room.
Next up was the 2:30 game between Macomb and Illini West. I didn't want to reveal my pick in this game around all of the Bomber fans in the house, since my picks were all wrong, LOL. Sat next to the WCAZ broadcasters, Greg Phelps and Keith Yex. Greg brought his "salmon" colored bag. It looked pink to me. Sorry Greg, had to go there, haha. There was quite a cluster on day three with the radio broadcast crews on press row. WBBA (Pittsfield) and the K100 (Macomb) crew had to switch out throughout the day. Fortunately, my courtside seat was all mine for the entire duration of the tournament, right next to holidaybasketball.com webmaster Chris Smith, and Bill Horrell, who was running the Facebook and Twitter pages for the tournament this year.
Keith Yex was headed to Beardstown later in the night to broadcast the Lady Tiger Classic championship between Illini West and Piasa Southwestern. If Illini West lost, and played in the 3rd place game, it would be delayed, so I would provide that broadcast online live for the tournament.
Macomb would prevail to advance to the tournament championship once again. The Bombers have won the tournament three of the last four seasons. The unseeded Bombers would take on the #1 seed Canton Little Giants.
Another break in session between that game and the title games, which begin at 5:00. The consolation championship pits Barry Western and West Hancock. I returned to the hospitality room and munched on some pizza during the game. I tried to trim the pool of all-tournament selections down. The ballots are due at halftime of the championship. I always wait until the last minute, and pool the first half of the championship with the rest of the tournament.
I jinxed myself on Tuesday night, telling Chris Smith it was going to be easy to find 10 players to place on the team. However, on Wednesday, different players would step it up, and there were just a few solid selections for the team. Sat with Leon Groover and Bob Wagner of WBYS (Canton) as we discussed the potential all-tournament selections.
Went back down to press row to watch Pittsfield and Midwest Central for 5th place. The Saukees would prevail, and I would gather my notes for the next broadcast for third place, the Illini West Chargers and Metamora Redbirds.
The Quest File Notes
Game 46
Date: 12/30/09
Result: Pittsfield cruises past Brown County (57-37)
Miles: 0
(12/30/09)
Brown County vs. Pittsfield (Boy's Basketball)
Macomb-Western Holiday Tournament
Following the opening game, I had a few minutes to fill out the scorebook for the second game and broadcast between the Pittsfield Saukees and Brown County Hornets. Brown County knocked off number three seed Lewistown the night before on a buzzer-beater in overtime, while the Saukees easily cruised past B-PC/A, at one point leading 42-3.
Pittsfield jumped out to an early lead, but Brown County took a 11-10 lead with 0:40 to play in the first quarter. That would be the only lead the Hornets would hold in this game. Taylor Kattelman hit a three-pointer in the final seconds to boost Pittsfield to a 13-10 lead after one quarter.
It was all Saukees in the second quarter, going on an 11-0 run, before a Nathan Goudschaal free throw broke the scoring string. Pittsfield led at halftime, 25-15. Jacob Wilson scored 9 points in the first half for the Hornets, while the Saukees were led by Dalton Hoover's 8 points.
More of the same in the third quarter, as Pittsfield outscored Brown County 17-10, and led 42-25 heading into the fourth quarter. Matthew Chaney hit a couple three-pointers in the fourth quarter, as the team managed 12 points in the final frame. Pittsfield would beat Brown County 57-37.
Pittsfield had a balanced scoring attack, behind Jordan Cawthon's 13 points, Brad Hamilton with 12 points, and Dalton Hoover with 12 points. The Hornets were paced by Matthew Chaney and Jacob Wilson, each with 9 points.
After the broadcast, I needed a little down time before starting the Wednesday schedule and scoreboard. Talked with McDonough Voice sports writer Mitch Worley and West Prairie Cyclones basketball coach Kellen Fernetti, in town to watch the action. Then I retreated upstairs to the hospitality room, where the man in charge of it, Steve Hensley gave me grief about my Monday night picks, in which I went 0-3 on my picks, and additionally called the entire consolation bracket wrong (I had Pleasant Plains vs. Lewistown for the consolation title).
Went back down to press row to fill out the schedule and scoreboard. The next game on tap at Western Hall was (1:00) for Canton and Metamora. Depending on how the bracket would fall, it appeared that my day of broadcasting was over.
Canton would beat Metamora pretty handily, another surprise. After the game, talked with WMBD cameraman Robert Hahn in the hospitality room. He filmed the Canton/Metamora game and was headed off to the Manual girl's tournament in Peoria. Also spoke with my old buddy Dana Nissen from Macomb, he was helping out man the hospitality room.
Next up was the 2:30 game between Macomb and Illini West. I didn't want to reveal my pick in this game around all of the Bomber fans in the house, since my picks were all wrong, LOL. Sat next to the WCAZ broadcasters, Greg Phelps and Keith Yex. Greg brought his "salmon" colored bag. It looked pink to me. Sorry Greg, had to go there, haha. There was quite a cluster on day three with the radio broadcast crews on press row. WBBA (Pittsfield) and the K100 (Macomb) crew had to switch out throughout the day. Fortunately, my courtside seat was all mine for the entire duration of the tournament, right next to holidaybasketball.com webmaster Chris Smith, and Bill Horrell, who was running the Facebook and Twitter pages for the tournament this year.
Keith Yex was headed to Beardstown later in the night to broadcast the Lady Tiger Classic championship between Illini West and Piasa Southwestern. If Illini West lost, and played in the 3rd place game, it would be delayed, so I would provide that broadcast online live for the tournament.
Macomb would prevail to advance to the tournament championship once again. The Bombers have won the tournament three of the last four seasons. The unseeded Bombers would take on the #1 seed Canton Little Giants.
Another break in session between that game and the title games, which begin at 5:00. The consolation championship pits Barry Western and West Hancock. I returned to the hospitality room and munched on some pizza during the game. I tried to trim the pool of all-tournament selections down. The ballots are due at halftime of the championship. I always wait until the last minute, and pool the first half of the championship with the rest of the tournament.
I jinxed myself on Tuesday night, telling Chris Smith it was going to be easy to find 10 players to place on the team. However, on Wednesday, different players would step it up, and there were just a few solid selections for the team. Sat with Leon Groover and Bob Wagner of WBYS (Canton) as we discussed the potential all-tournament selections.
Went back down to press row to watch Pittsfield and Midwest Central for 5th place. The Saukees would prevail, and I would gather my notes for the next broadcast for third place, the Illini West Chargers and Metamora Redbirds.
The Quest File Notes
Game 46
Date: 12/30/09
Result: Pittsfield cruises past Brown County (57-37)
Miles: 0
Game 45: Midwest Central vs. Illini Central (Boy's Basketball)
Game 45
(12/30/09)
Midwest Central vs. Illini Central (Boy's Basketball)
Macomb-Western Holiday Tournament
Following another night of staying up until 3 a.m. the 7 a.m. wakeup call was quite dreadful. The thought of coffee in the near future was very gratifying. I hit the road around 8 a.m. and hit Ayerco for my routine morning coffee. Today, it was a 24 oz. coffee instead of the traditional 16 oz. Another long day and night were on tap to finish out the 2009 tournament.
Arriving at the gym around 8:15, I entered at the same time as the Midwest Central Raiders, who were set to face the Illini Central Cougars in the 9:00 a.m. game. Very few bodies were at Western Hall this early. Jake Croxton, the P.A. announcer for the tournament was the only soul on press row. I took the time to fill out my scorebook before going on air, and talked with Raiders coach Kevin Burks and Cougars coach John Giesler.
Dennis Gordy stopped by, in early for the morning session games. His son, Matt, is a senior guard for the Macomb Bombers. By tipoff, a small smattering of people showed up, but the roads were fairly slick with a light snowfall. Talking with the WBBA (Pittsfield) radio guys, they said a woman at the hotel told them it took her 45 minutes to make the normally 15-minute drive from Industry to Macomb.
The Cougars jumped out to a lead, holding the Raiders scoreless until 4:30 to play in the first quarter. Michael Berg hit a free throw to break the scoreless run, and the first Raiders field goal came at the (3:06) mark.
Midwest Central took their first lead with 2:17 to play in the opening quarter and never looked back, leading 14-10 after the first quarter. Brice Reining came out on fire in the second quarter, drilling three three-pointers, but Illini Central hung in the game, trailing by just a point at halftime (29-28).
The second half was a much different story, with Midwest Central jumping out to a (15-2) run, and finished the third quarter with a (56-39) lead. The Raiders dropped another four three-pointers in the third quarter, two of them by Zach Schmidgall.
Two more three-pointers were made by the Raiders in the fourth quarter, and they finished with nine three-pointers on the night. Midwest Central beat Illini Central (74-60). Michael Berg finished with 22 points, and Ian Gaskill added 11 points. The Cougars were paced by freshman Jared Entwistle's 18 points.
It was learned after the game, that Barry Western arrived about five minutes before their schedule game against Lewistown. Apparently, they didn't even warm up, they got dressed and hit the floor against the Indians, would upset the number three seed in overtime in the consolation bracket.
The Quest File Notes
Game 45
Date: 12/30/09
Result: Midwest Central uses third quarter run to beat Illini Central (74-60)
Miles: 3
(12/30/09)
Midwest Central vs. Illini Central (Boy's Basketball)
Macomb-Western Holiday Tournament
Following another night of staying up until 3 a.m. the 7 a.m. wakeup call was quite dreadful. The thought of coffee in the near future was very gratifying. I hit the road around 8 a.m. and hit Ayerco for my routine morning coffee. Today, it was a 24 oz. coffee instead of the traditional 16 oz. Another long day and night were on tap to finish out the 2009 tournament.
Arriving at the gym around 8:15, I entered at the same time as the Midwest Central Raiders, who were set to face the Illini Central Cougars in the 9:00 a.m. game. Very few bodies were at Western Hall this early. Jake Croxton, the P.A. announcer for the tournament was the only soul on press row. I took the time to fill out my scorebook before going on air, and talked with Raiders coach Kevin Burks and Cougars coach John Giesler.
Dennis Gordy stopped by, in early for the morning session games. His son, Matt, is a senior guard for the Macomb Bombers. By tipoff, a small smattering of people showed up, but the roads were fairly slick with a light snowfall. Talking with the WBBA (Pittsfield) radio guys, they said a woman at the hotel told them it took her 45 minutes to make the normally 15-minute drive from Industry to Macomb.
The Cougars jumped out to a lead, holding the Raiders scoreless until 4:30 to play in the first quarter. Michael Berg hit a free throw to break the scoreless run, and the first Raiders field goal came at the (3:06) mark.
Midwest Central took their first lead with 2:17 to play in the opening quarter and never looked back, leading 14-10 after the first quarter. Brice Reining came out on fire in the second quarter, drilling three three-pointers, but Illini Central hung in the game, trailing by just a point at halftime (29-28).
The second half was a much different story, with Midwest Central jumping out to a (15-2) run, and finished the third quarter with a (56-39) lead. The Raiders dropped another four three-pointers in the third quarter, two of them by Zach Schmidgall.
Two more three-pointers were made by the Raiders in the fourth quarter, and they finished with nine three-pointers on the night. Midwest Central beat Illini Central (74-60). Michael Berg finished with 22 points, and Ian Gaskill added 11 points. The Cougars were paced by freshman Jared Entwistle's 18 points.
It was learned after the game, that Barry Western arrived about five minutes before their schedule game against Lewistown. Apparently, they didn't even warm up, they got dressed and hit the floor against the Indians, would upset the number three seed in overtime in the consolation bracket.
The Quest File Notes
Game 45
Date: 12/30/09
Result: Midwest Central uses third quarter run to beat Illini Central (74-60)
Miles: 3
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Game 44: Metamora vs. Illini Central (Boy's Basketball)
Game 44
(12/29/09)
Metamora vs. Illini Central (Boy's Basketball)
Macomb-Western Holiday Tournament
Another break in session allowed me to wander up to the hospitality room for some lunch. I dined on a spicy chicken and roast beef from Hardee's and sat with B-PC/A baseball coach Dave Arnold, Abingdon baseball coach Joe Nichols, and Bill Horrell (the Macomb-Western Holiday Tournament Facebook and Twitter-master).
Got a chance to speak with my old pal Lance Giesler, now an assistant for his dad, John, at Illini Central. He gave me stats on the Cougars, and chatted for a few minutes. Lance went to Western Illinois University, and also served as a volunteer assistant for Danny Watson at Macomb during college.
The Cougars entered this matchup coming off a (54-51) first round win over West Hancock, while Metamora ran past Farmington. Spent a few minutes with coach John Giesler and his honorary coach Dennis Danowski from the Macomb Public Library.
Metamora, or should I say, Kyle Heck and J.D. Kamp, led the Redbirds to a (22-8) lead after one quarter. Kamp hit three three-pointers in the first quarter, and scored 11 points in the first eight minutes, while Heck added 9 points.
From that point on, it was pretty evenly matched, during the final three quarters. Illini Central won the second quarter (9-8), and went into the locker room trailing (30-17). Chris Smith, webmaster at www.holidaybasketball.com joined me at halftime and talked about the new and old features of the website, as it has its own Facebook page and Twitter feed this year, while also bringing back live streaming stats for the second year, and the old favorite, the scorecam, in its ninth year of existence.
The Redbirds edged out further in the third quarter, taking a 41-25 lead into the fourth quarter, and cruised for the (52-34) victory to advance. Kyle Heck scored a game-high 21 points, while J.D. Kamp had 15 points, 10 rebounds for the Redbirds. Danny Harman had 18 points and 7 rebounds for the Cougars.
After the broadcast, I worked on gathering more scores for the IHSSN scoreboard, then took in another round of the hospitality room. Ran into Hall of Fame head coach Tom Wierzba, and asked him out retirement was treating him. He was all smiles, and seemed to be enjoying his time as a spectator at the tournament.
The night was capped off with non-broadcasts, but did do some video work of the Macomb/Pittsfield game and the Illini West/Brown County game. The best game of the first two days was the Bombers holding off the Saukees. Macomb never led until (6:31) to play in the game and won by a point in a back-and-forth physical affair. The best finish of the tournament up through day two was the overtime prayer of a three-pointer by Brown County's Mitch Dormire to lift the Hornets past Lewistown. The most athletic play of the day didn't even involve a player, but rather one of the officials. Mark Neuhauser (sp?), made a leaping hurdle over an Illini West player in Tuesday's final game. Both an Illini West and Brown County player came into contact near scorers table at half court, and fell to the floor while the sprinting referee had to make a fast move and jump the pair.
The Quest File Notes
Game 44
Date: 12/29/09
Result: Pleasant Plains hot start leads to win over Illini Central
Miles: 0
(12/29/09)
Metamora vs. Illini Central (Boy's Basketball)
Macomb-Western Holiday Tournament
Another break in session allowed me to wander up to the hospitality room for some lunch. I dined on a spicy chicken and roast beef from Hardee's and sat with B-PC/A baseball coach Dave Arnold, Abingdon baseball coach Joe Nichols, and Bill Horrell (the Macomb-Western Holiday Tournament Facebook and Twitter-master).
Got a chance to speak with my old pal Lance Giesler, now an assistant for his dad, John, at Illini Central. He gave me stats on the Cougars, and chatted for a few minutes. Lance went to Western Illinois University, and also served as a volunteer assistant for Danny Watson at Macomb during college.
The Cougars entered this matchup coming off a (54-51) first round win over West Hancock, while Metamora ran past Farmington. Spent a few minutes with coach John Giesler and his honorary coach Dennis Danowski from the Macomb Public Library.
Metamora, or should I say, Kyle Heck and J.D. Kamp, led the Redbirds to a (22-8) lead after one quarter. Kamp hit three three-pointers in the first quarter, and scored 11 points in the first eight minutes, while Heck added 9 points.
From that point on, it was pretty evenly matched, during the final three quarters. Illini Central won the second quarter (9-8), and went into the locker room trailing (30-17). Chris Smith, webmaster at www.holidaybasketball.com joined me at halftime and talked about the new and old features of the website, as it has its own Facebook page and Twitter feed this year, while also bringing back live streaming stats for the second year, and the old favorite, the scorecam, in its ninth year of existence.
The Redbirds edged out further in the third quarter, taking a 41-25 lead into the fourth quarter, and cruised for the (52-34) victory to advance. Kyle Heck scored a game-high 21 points, while J.D. Kamp had 15 points, 10 rebounds for the Redbirds. Danny Harman had 18 points and 7 rebounds for the Cougars.
After the broadcast, I worked on gathering more scores for the IHSSN scoreboard, then took in another round of the hospitality room. Ran into Hall of Fame head coach Tom Wierzba, and asked him out retirement was treating him. He was all smiles, and seemed to be enjoying his time as a spectator at the tournament.
The night was capped off with non-broadcasts, but did do some video work of the Macomb/Pittsfield game and the Illini West/Brown County game. The best game of the first two days was the Bombers holding off the Saukees. Macomb never led until (6:31) to play in the game and won by a point in a back-and-forth physical affair. The best finish of the tournament up through day two was the overtime prayer of a three-pointer by Brown County's Mitch Dormire to lift the Hornets past Lewistown. The most athletic play of the day didn't even involve a player, but rather one of the officials. Mark Neuhauser (sp?), made a leaping hurdle over an Illini West player in Tuesday's final game. Both an Illini West and Brown County player came into contact near scorers table at half court, and fell to the floor while the sprinting referee had to make a fast move and jump the pair.
The Quest File Notes
Game 44
Date: 12/29/09
Result: Pleasant Plains hot start leads to win over Illini Central
Miles: 0
Game 43: Monmouth-Roseville vs. Lewistown (Boy's Basketball)
Game 43
(12/29/09)
Monmouth-Roseville vs. Lewistown (Boy's Basketball)
Macomb-Western Holiday Tournament
After the session break, the afternoon started with the Monmouth-Roseville Titans facing the Lewistown Indians. Who would have thought this to be a consolation bracket matchup two or three weeks ago? Or even, Lewistown being on the left side of the bracket?
Earlier in the day, my broadcast partner, Jeff Thompson, had called and said the Titans coaches picked up a Titans back that was left at Western Hall. They discovered it was our radio bag. During the tournament, I leave all of my equipment set up in my broadcast location, and keep my bag underneath the bleachers near the tunnel to the locker rooms. So, freshman head coach Jimmy Jordan brought it back before the Titans matchup for this game.
After the debacle of the Titans collapse against Illini West, coach Chuck Grant made some changes in the rotation for this game against Lewistown. Cory Jensen and Tim Chick started for M-R.
Both teams started the game extremely sloppy and slow. The game was scoreless until (5:16), when Alex Bresnahan made a free throw. The first field goal didn't come until (1:50) to play in the opening quarter. The score was (9-3) Lewistown after one quarter. The teams got going offensively in the second quarter, with the Indians taking a (23-13) lead into the half. The Indians got a steal and basket from Zach Duncan at the buzzer to lead by 10 points at the break.
Still in the ball game, it quickly got out of hand in the third quarter for the Titans, as Lewistown outscored Monmouth-Roseville (21-10) to start the second half. The Titans shooting was brutal, and the fight was lost midway through the third quarter. It was more of the same in the fourth quarter, and the Indians would prevail (61-34).
Monmouth-Roseville shot an atrocious (11-59) from the field (18.6%). The Titans only turned the ball over 14 times, while forcing 20 turnovers, but lost the rebounding battle (42-31). Lewistown was led by Ian Simpson and Kevin Battefeld with 15 points apiece. Joseph Jugovic (6'9" Sr.) had 2 points, 6 blocks, 3 rebounds, and 2 assists. Monmouth-Roseville was led by Ale Bresnahan's 9 points, 4 rebounds, 2 steals.
The Quest File Notes
Game 43
Date: 12/29/09
Result: Lewistown beats Monmouth-Roseville, behind ice cold Titan shooting (61-34)
Miles: already in the building
(12/29/09)
Monmouth-Roseville vs. Lewistown (Boy's Basketball)
Macomb-Western Holiday Tournament
After the session break, the afternoon started with the Monmouth-Roseville Titans facing the Lewistown Indians. Who would have thought this to be a consolation bracket matchup two or three weeks ago? Or even, Lewistown being on the left side of the bracket?
Earlier in the day, my broadcast partner, Jeff Thompson, had called and said the Titans coaches picked up a Titans back that was left at Western Hall. They discovered it was our radio bag. During the tournament, I leave all of my equipment set up in my broadcast location, and keep my bag underneath the bleachers near the tunnel to the locker rooms. So, freshman head coach Jimmy Jordan brought it back before the Titans matchup for this game.
After the debacle of the Titans collapse against Illini West, coach Chuck Grant made some changes in the rotation for this game against Lewistown. Cory Jensen and Tim Chick started for M-R.
Both teams started the game extremely sloppy and slow. The game was scoreless until (5:16), when Alex Bresnahan made a free throw. The first field goal didn't come until (1:50) to play in the opening quarter. The score was (9-3) Lewistown after one quarter. The teams got going offensively in the second quarter, with the Indians taking a (23-13) lead into the half. The Indians got a steal and basket from Zach Duncan at the buzzer to lead by 10 points at the break.
Still in the ball game, it quickly got out of hand in the third quarter for the Titans, as Lewistown outscored Monmouth-Roseville (21-10) to start the second half. The Titans shooting was brutal, and the fight was lost midway through the third quarter. It was more of the same in the fourth quarter, and the Indians would prevail (61-34).
Monmouth-Roseville shot an atrocious (11-59) from the field (18.6%). The Titans only turned the ball over 14 times, while forcing 20 turnovers, but lost the rebounding battle (42-31). Lewistown was led by Ian Simpson and Kevin Battefeld with 15 points apiece. Joseph Jugovic (6'9" Sr.) had 2 points, 6 blocks, 3 rebounds, and 2 assists. Monmouth-Roseville was led by Ale Bresnahan's 9 points, 4 rebounds, 2 steals.
The Quest File Notes
Game 43
Date: 12/29/09
Result: Lewistown beats Monmouth-Roseville, behind ice cold Titan shooting (61-34)
Miles: already in the building
Game 42: Pleasant Plains vs. Abingdon (Boy's Basketball)
Game 42
(12/29/09)
Pleasant Plains vs. Abingdon
Macomb-Western Holiday Tournament
My morning started a little later than I had wanted. That's what happens when I stay up until 3 a.m. updating the scoreboard, lol. I slept in until about 7:30, and tried to get a few things going for the early morning games. Of course, my morning coffee was a must.
First broadcast was not until 10:30, so I had some time when I arrived at Western Hall to get set up and start filling out the Tuesday holiday tournament schedules for the scoreboard. When I arrived at press row, saw my old buddy Dave Graf. He manages the Midwestern Building Supply stores in Tremont, Macomb, and Galesburg.
Got settled in and ready for the WMOI broadcast of the Abingdon Commandoes and Pleasant Plains Cardinals. I was impressed by the fight Abingdon gave the top-seeded Canton Little Giants during day one.
The Commandoes started out about as slow as possible, not scoring until the (2:21) mark in the first quarter. Plains jumped out to a (13-2) first quarter lead. Coming out into the second quarter, the roles reversed, as Abingdon went on an 8-0 run. That closed the gap to (13-10). James Carnes and Cory Link knocked down three-pointers in that run.
Plains clawed back behind three-pointers from sophomore Braxton Lanier and senior Dustin Myers, and they would eventually lead by 11 late in the second quarter. At halftime, the Cardinals led 21-13.
Joe Nichols, the athletic director and baseball coach at Abingdon, joined me for halftime. We talked about the Commandoes boy's and girl's basketball teams and previewed the Great Western Shootout, held at Abingdon every January. That shootout is renowned for their spaghetti dinner just as much as the quality basketball. Joe is also a Macomb High School graduate.
The teams each scored 9 points in the third quarter, to make it (30-22) heading into the fourth quarter. Abingdon, once again, hung in until the end, trying to claw back in, but the Cardinals were too strong and prevailed (40-29).
Cory Link led the Commandoes with 10 points. Logan Harris scored 12 points and Dustin Myers added 11 points for the Cardinals. Only six free throws were just by both teams the entire game. A total of only 17 fouls were whistled.
The Commandoes went two-and-out at the Macomb-Western Holiday Tournament for the first time since 2005.
The Quest File Notes
Game 42
Date: 12/29/09
Result: Pleasant Plains survives a feisty Abingdon team, winning 40-29
Miles: 3
(12/29/09)
Pleasant Plains vs. Abingdon
Macomb-Western Holiday Tournament
My morning started a little later than I had wanted. That's what happens when I stay up until 3 a.m. updating the scoreboard, lol. I slept in until about 7:30, and tried to get a few things going for the early morning games. Of course, my morning coffee was a must.
First broadcast was not until 10:30, so I had some time when I arrived at Western Hall to get set up and start filling out the Tuesday holiday tournament schedules for the scoreboard. When I arrived at press row, saw my old buddy Dave Graf. He manages the Midwestern Building Supply stores in Tremont, Macomb, and Galesburg.
Got settled in and ready for the WMOI broadcast of the Abingdon Commandoes and Pleasant Plains Cardinals. I was impressed by the fight Abingdon gave the top-seeded Canton Little Giants during day one.
The Commandoes started out about as slow as possible, not scoring until the (2:21) mark in the first quarter. Plains jumped out to a (13-2) first quarter lead. Coming out into the second quarter, the roles reversed, as Abingdon went on an 8-0 run. That closed the gap to (13-10). James Carnes and Cory Link knocked down three-pointers in that run.
Plains clawed back behind three-pointers from sophomore Braxton Lanier and senior Dustin Myers, and they would eventually lead by 11 late in the second quarter. At halftime, the Cardinals led 21-13.
Joe Nichols, the athletic director and baseball coach at Abingdon, joined me for halftime. We talked about the Commandoes boy's and girl's basketball teams and previewed the Great Western Shootout, held at Abingdon every January. That shootout is renowned for their spaghetti dinner just as much as the quality basketball. Joe is also a Macomb High School graduate.
The teams each scored 9 points in the third quarter, to make it (30-22) heading into the fourth quarter. Abingdon, once again, hung in until the end, trying to claw back in, but the Cardinals were too strong and prevailed (40-29).
Cory Link led the Commandoes with 10 points. Logan Harris scored 12 points and Dustin Myers added 11 points for the Cardinals. Only six free throws were just by both teams the entire game. A total of only 17 fouls were whistled.
The Commandoes went two-and-out at the Macomb-Western Holiday Tournament for the first time since 2005.
The Quest File Notes
Game 42
Date: 12/29/09
Result: Pleasant Plains survives a feisty Abingdon team, winning 40-29
Miles: 3
Game 41: Monmouth-Roseville vs. Illini West (Boy's Basketball)
Game 41
(12/28/09)
Monmouth-Roseville vs. Illini West (Boy's Basketball)
Macomb-Western Holiday Tournament
With several hours between broadcasts, I took the time to track down holiday tournament scores for the IHSSN Scoreboard. I watched the Pittsfield/BPCA game, in which the #2 seed Saukees held a 42-3 lead at one point. Pittsfield prevailed 53-20 in the end. The next game had Macomb match up with Barry Western. The Bombers were able to control that game from beginning to end. That's when I took to the hospitality room for some dinner.
I feasted on some Buffalo Wild Wings and talked with Steve Hensley. Monmouth-Roseville Principal Jeff Bryan stopped in. We spoke about the Monmouth-Roseville girl's basketball situation, in which the Titans postponed their holiday tournament game, due to a death close to their basketball family that day.
Once finished in the hospitality room, the Lewistown/Brown County game had just begun. I went into the stands to talk with Monmouth-Roseville coach Chuck Grant. Ran into B-PC/A football coach John McCormick and basketball coach Matt Colston. I then went and sat with coach Grant, my 97.7 broadcast partner Jeff Thompson, and principal Bryan. Someone asked me how I thought this Brown County/Lewistown game would turn out, and I said Brown County was a sleeper in the tournament and it should be a pretty good game. I didn't think it would be as good as it would turn out, though.
At halftime, I retreated back to my press row seat. I organized my notes for the final game of the night, that would pit the Titans and Chargers. Lewistown controlled much of this game before our broadcast, but the Hornets were able to keep pace. The game went into overtime, tied at 52-52 with Brown County unable to get a good shot off at the end of regulation. The teams went back and forth in overtime, and were tied at 59-59 with just seconds to go. It looked like we would head to a second overtime, before Mitch Dormire threw up a prayer of a three-pointer, that was such a brick, it bounced off the rim and fell flat through the nets to give the Hornets the game-winner, knocking off the #3 seed Indians.
According to online visitors at www.holidaybasketball.com, this final game of the night should give us the most entertaining game of the day. John Hughs is in his first year at Illini West. He has coached in this area (Northwestern, Roseville, Knoxville, and also Flanagan).
The Chargers jumped out to a 13-5 lead after one quarter, and the Titans looked lost on the floor. Illini West would take a 27-16 lead into the locker room, taking advantage of 13 turnovers by the Titans in the first half. That is right around the per game average of turnovers for Monmouth-Roseville, thus far this season.
Tim Chick entered the game midway through the second quarter and provided a spark, scoring six first half points. Jacob Schmudlach scored 8 points for the Chargers in the first half. Illini West had 12 offensive rebounds, to Monmouth-Roseville's 1 in the first half.
The Chargers led 43-29 after three quarters, and would hold on for the 56-37 victory. Illini West improved to (4-2), while Monmouth-Roseville dropped to (6-4). Illini West outrebounded Monmouth-Roseville 41-22. The Chargers had 14 offensive rebounds, to the Titans 2. Monmouth-Roseville committed 18 turnovers, while the Chargers turned it over 16 times.
Leading the way was Illini West's Jacob Schmudlach, who tallied 17 points, pulled down 7 rebounds, and had 2 steals. Monmouth-Roseville got 9 points from Tim Chick and B.J. Salyers.
The Quest File Notes
Game 41
Date: 12/28/09
Result: Illini West controls Monmouth-Roseville, wins 56-37
Miles: 0
(12/28/09)
Monmouth-Roseville vs. Illini West (Boy's Basketball)
Macomb-Western Holiday Tournament
With several hours between broadcasts, I took the time to track down holiday tournament scores for the IHSSN Scoreboard. I watched the Pittsfield/BPCA game, in which the #2 seed Saukees held a 42-3 lead at one point. Pittsfield prevailed 53-20 in the end. The next game had Macomb match up with Barry Western. The Bombers were able to control that game from beginning to end. That's when I took to the hospitality room for some dinner.
I feasted on some Buffalo Wild Wings and talked with Steve Hensley. Monmouth-Roseville Principal Jeff Bryan stopped in. We spoke about the Monmouth-Roseville girl's basketball situation, in which the Titans postponed their holiday tournament game, due to a death close to their basketball family that day.
Once finished in the hospitality room, the Lewistown/Brown County game had just begun. I went into the stands to talk with Monmouth-Roseville coach Chuck Grant. Ran into B-PC/A football coach John McCormick and basketball coach Matt Colston. I then went and sat with coach Grant, my 97.7 broadcast partner Jeff Thompson, and principal Bryan. Someone asked me how I thought this Brown County/Lewistown game would turn out, and I said Brown County was a sleeper in the tournament and it should be a pretty good game. I didn't think it would be as good as it would turn out, though.
At halftime, I retreated back to my press row seat. I organized my notes for the final game of the night, that would pit the Titans and Chargers. Lewistown controlled much of this game before our broadcast, but the Hornets were able to keep pace. The game went into overtime, tied at 52-52 with Brown County unable to get a good shot off at the end of regulation. The teams went back and forth in overtime, and were tied at 59-59 with just seconds to go. It looked like we would head to a second overtime, before Mitch Dormire threw up a prayer of a three-pointer, that was such a brick, it bounced off the rim and fell flat through the nets to give the Hornets the game-winner, knocking off the #3 seed Indians.
According to online visitors at www.holidaybasketball.com, this final game of the night should give us the most entertaining game of the day. John Hughs is in his first year at Illini West. He has coached in this area (Northwestern, Roseville, Knoxville, and also Flanagan).
The Chargers jumped out to a 13-5 lead after one quarter, and the Titans looked lost on the floor. Illini West would take a 27-16 lead into the locker room, taking advantage of 13 turnovers by the Titans in the first half. That is right around the per game average of turnovers for Monmouth-Roseville, thus far this season.
Tim Chick entered the game midway through the second quarter and provided a spark, scoring six first half points. Jacob Schmudlach scored 8 points for the Chargers in the first half. Illini West had 12 offensive rebounds, to Monmouth-Roseville's 1 in the first half.
The Chargers led 43-29 after three quarters, and would hold on for the 56-37 victory. Illini West improved to (4-2), while Monmouth-Roseville dropped to (6-4). Illini West outrebounded Monmouth-Roseville 41-22. The Chargers had 14 offensive rebounds, to the Titans 2. Monmouth-Roseville committed 18 turnovers, while the Chargers turned it over 16 times.
Leading the way was Illini West's Jacob Schmudlach, who tallied 17 points, pulled down 7 rebounds, and had 2 steals. Monmouth-Roseville got 9 points from Tim Chick and B.J. Salyers.
The Quest File Notes
Game 41
Date: 12/28/09
Result: Illini West controls Monmouth-Roseville, wins 56-37
Miles: 0
Monday, December 28, 2009
Game 40: Abingdon vs. Canton (Boy's Basketball)
Game 40
(12/28/09)
Abingdon vs. Canton (Boy's Basketball)
Macomb-Western Holiday Tournament
As soon as I signed off of the Pleasant Plains/Midwest Central broadcast, I had to phone the radio station (Sunny 97.7), to air the Abingdon/Canton matchup. The Little Giants come in as the number one seed, while the Commandoes have struggled to a (2-7) start heading into the tournament.
The game got off to a very slow start, with Canton jumping out to a 11-7 lead after one quarter. Cory Link hit a three-pointer and James Carnes and Jesse Hines each added a field goal for Abingdon. Canton got a pair of field goals from Lea Turgeon and Matt Putrich in the first quarter.
At halftime, it was still a four-point game, with the top-seeded Little Giants holding a 19-15 lead. Brad Siedel came in with a couple baskets for Abingdon in the second quarter. Brad's dad, Bob Siedel was the Macomb-Western Tournament MVP in 1983, when the Commandoes finished fourth in that tournament.
Canton outscored Abingdon (7-4) in the third quarter, with each team scoring just two field goals apiece. It was a four-point game heading into the fourth quarter (26-22). It was all Canton in the final frame, outscoring Abingdon (20-7) in the last eight minutes. The Little Giants went (7-11) from the free throw line in the fourth quarter. Canton would win, 46-29.
Matt Putrich led the Little Giants with 15 points, while Jordan Fouts added 11 points and Lea Turgeon pitched in 9 points. Cory Link scored a team-high 9 points for Abingdon.
The Quest File Notes
Game 40
Date: 12/28/09
Result: Canton explodes in 4th quarter to beat Abingdon, 46-29
Miles: 0
(12/28/09)
Abingdon vs. Canton (Boy's Basketball)
Macomb-Western Holiday Tournament
As soon as I signed off of the Pleasant Plains/Midwest Central broadcast, I had to phone the radio station (Sunny 97.7), to air the Abingdon/Canton matchup. The Little Giants come in as the number one seed, while the Commandoes have struggled to a (2-7) start heading into the tournament.
The game got off to a very slow start, with Canton jumping out to a 11-7 lead after one quarter. Cory Link hit a three-pointer and James Carnes and Jesse Hines each added a field goal for Abingdon. Canton got a pair of field goals from Lea Turgeon and Matt Putrich in the first quarter.
At halftime, it was still a four-point game, with the top-seeded Little Giants holding a 19-15 lead. Brad Siedel came in with a couple baskets for Abingdon in the second quarter. Brad's dad, Bob Siedel was the Macomb-Western Tournament MVP in 1983, when the Commandoes finished fourth in that tournament.
Canton outscored Abingdon (7-4) in the third quarter, with each team scoring just two field goals apiece. It was a four-point game heading into the fourth quarter (26-22). It was all Canton in the final frame, outscoring Abingdon (20-7) in the last eight minutes. The Little Giants went (7-11) from the free throw line in the fourth quarter. Canton would win, 46-29.
Matt Putrich led the Little Giants with 15 points, while Jordan Fouts added 11 points and Lea Turgeon pitched in 9 points. Cory Link scored a team-high 9 points for Abingdon.
The Quest File Notes
Game 40
Date: 12/28/09
Result: Canton explodes in 4th quarter to beat Abingdon, 46-29
Miles: 0
Game 39: Pleasant Plains vs. Midwest Central (Boy's Basketball)
Game 39
(12/28/09)
Pleasant Plains vs. Midwest Central (Boy's Basketball)
Macomb-Western Holiday Tournament
I had the entire morning to myself, nary a broadcast until the 1:00 tipoff between the Raiders and Cardinals. Many people asked me throughout the morning how many broadcasts I had planned for day one at Western Hall, and I replied..."only three today". I guess its a small number in comparison to the five, six, and seven broadcast days I have had in the Macomb-Western Holiday Tournament.
Living and formerly working in Macomb, there are so many familiar faces that I love to run into. Its my thinking that my broadcast setup is the best seat in the house at Western Hall, just a hair across the center court line on press row. It's been a staple for my broadcasts since I began covering the tournament in 2003. Of course, it was a hand-me-down from Chris Smith, the webmaster for www.holidaybasketball.com, the tournament's website. He was Sports Director for K100 & WLMD prior to me taking that position, so I have inherited the prestigous broadcast location. Chris is right at half court, taking care of the website duties, which have increased year after year. Thanks technology!
Prior to tipoff of this first game of the afternoon session, I made my way up to the hospitality room. Steve Hensley takes care of the grub, taking over for Stan Prentice. Not as magnificent as recent years, the hospitality room is still pretty nice. I grabbed a spicy chicken sandwich (Hardee's) and a couple small Subway sandwiches and sat with McDonough Voice sports writer Mitch Worley.
I took off for press row, talking with Midwest Central head coach Kevin Burks for a minute and getting his Raiders starters. Nearly had a catastrophe with the IHSSN broadcast of the game, as my Windows Media Encoder asked me for user name and password, which I didn't have handy. Fortunately, just at tipoff, it came up and I was able to log in.
Midwest Central had some hot shooting to start the game, behind five three-pointers in the first quarter. Brandon Fisher dropped three of them, and Zach Schmidgall added two more. The Raiders led 19-10 after eight minutes.
My buddy Rodney was in the Network1Sports chat room. Rodney is a 2001 graduate of Midwest Central, so he was able to provide some broadcast gems throughout the matchup. The Raiders came in with a (4-3) record, while Pleasant Plains (7-3), had won six straight games, and held a (7-0) record against 1A/2A competition.
The teams each scored 12 points in the second quarter. Midwest Central added a pair of three-pointers in the second eight minutes, one by Nick Rademaker, the other by Fisher. Pleasant Plains had a nice second quarter from Logan Harris and Lucas Studach.
Pleasant Plains slightly chipped in to start the second half, winning the third quarter (18-17). The fourth quarter was all Cardinals. Slowly chipping back into the game, it was tied at 60-60 with 0:06 to play and Plains had posession. The Cardinals were able to set up for a nice three-pointer to tie, but the shot would rim out at the buzzer, and Midwest Central prevailed 63-60.
Brandon Fisher scored a game-high 20 points, while Zach Schmidgall added 18 points. Michael Berg added 9 points. Pleasant Plains was led by Logan Harris with 18 points, and Lucas Studach added 16 points.
The Quest File Notes
Game 39
Date: 12/28/09
Result: Midwest Central holds off Pleasant Plains 63-60
Miles: 2
(12/28/09)
Pleasant Plains vs. Midwest Central (Boy's Basketball)
Macomb-Western Holiday Tournament
I had the entire morning to myself, nary a broadcast until the 1:00 tipoff between the Raiders and Cardinals. Many people asked me throughout the morning how many broadcasts I had planned for day one at Western Hall, and I replied..."only three today". I guess its a small number in comparison to the five, six, and seven broadcast days I have had in the Macomb-Western Holiday Tournament.
Living and formerly working in Macomb, there are so many familiar faces that I love to run into. Its my thinking that my broadcast setup is the best seat in the house at Western Hall, just a hair across the center court line on press row. It's been a staple for my broadcasts since I began covering the tournament in 2003. Of course, it was a hand-me-down from Chris Smith, the webmaster for www.holidaybasketball.com, the tournament's website. He was Sports Director for K100 & WLMD prior to me taking that position, so I have inherited the prestigous broadcast location. Chris is right at half court, taking care of the website duties, which have increased year after year. Thanks technology!
Prior to tipoff of this first game of the afternoon session, I made my way up to the hospitality room. Steve Hensley takes care of the grub, taking over for Stan Prentice. Not as magnificent as recent years, the hospitality room is still pretty nice. I grabbed a spicy chicken sandwich (Hardee's) and a couple small Subway sandwiches and sat with McDonough Voice sports writer Mitch Worley.
I took off for press row, talking with Midwest Central head coach Kevin Burks for a minute and getting his Raiders starters. Nearly had a catastrophe with the IHSSN broadcast of the game, as my Windows Media Encoder asked me for user name and password, which I didn't have handy. Fortunately, just at tipoff, it came up and I was able to log in.
Midwest Central had some hot shooting to start the game, behind five three-pointers in the first quarter. Brandon Fisher dropped three of them, and Zach Schmidgall added two more. The Raiders led 19-10 after eight minutes.
My buddy Rodney was in the Network1Sports chat room. Rodney is a 2001 graduate of Midwest Central, so he was able to provide some broadcast gems throughout the matchup. The Raiders came in with a (4-3) record, while Pleasant Plains (7-3), had won six straight games, and held a (7-0) record against 1A/2A competition.
The teams each scored 12 points in the second quarter. Midwest Central added a pair of three-pointers in the second eight minutes, one by Nick Rademaker, the other by Fisher. Pleasant Plains had a nice second quarter from Logan Harris and Lucas Studach.
Pleasant Plains slightly chipped in to start the second half, winning the third quarter (18-17). The fourth quarter was all Cardinals. Slowly chipping back into the game, it was tied at 60-60 with 0:06 to play and Plains had posession. The Cardinals were able to set up for a nice three-pointer to tie, but the shot would rim out at the buzzer, and Midwest Central prevailed 63-60.
Brandon Fisher scored a game-high 20 points, while Zach Schmidgall added 18 points. Michael Berg added 9 points. Pleasant Plains was led by Logan Harris with 18 points, and Lucas Studach added 16 points.
The Quest File Notes
Game 39
Date: 12/28/09
Result: Midwest Central holds off Pleasant Plains 63-60
Miles: 2
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Game 38: Peoria Richwoods vs. Lombard Montini (Girl's Basketball)
Game 38
(12/22/09)
Lombard Montini (Class 3A #1) vs. Peoria Richwoods (Class 3A #3) (Girl's Basketball)
Sterling Shootout
There is a reason this game was saved for the final night....at least on paper. Two teams ranked in the top three of state, one of them the defending 3A champions (Richwoods), the other a sure-fire favorite to win it all this year (Montini), and a total of at least six future Division-1 players that would suit up for both teams.
Since I hadn't eaten anything since an eggs and toast breakfast at 8 a.m. I thought maybe I should grab some eats. Dove into a large slice of pizza from the concession stand. A messy slice, but for only $2, a pretty good deal. Stayed in the concessions area, and spoke with a member of the school staff at Sterling who was assigned to guard an area between the concession stand and the auditorium (where the Thomson Prison public hearing was being held). He said he had heard over 100 officers were on patrol throughout the high school campus.
While eating my pizza, the Montini sophomore team came walking through looking for the restrooms. At first, I thought it was the varsity players wondering why they weren't warming up. Then, I realized it was the sophomore team. It is my belief, Montini should be pretty good for the next few years, based on what they have in underclassmen at the varsity level, and the sheer size they have currently on the sophomore team. One of the members of the sophomore team is (6'4" Freshman) Malayna Johnson. Yes...that is the younger sister of UCONN-bound Michala Johnson.
I really love the atmosphere of Sterling's Homer Musgrove Fieldhouse. It is a very large gym, with old brick walls. The bleacher seating on each of the main sides only goes up about 12-13 rows, but seats plenty. On each baseline, there is also a short set of bleachers that has about 12 rows. Behind the east baseline bleachers, is where the concession area is. There are archways in the brick that give you access to the concessions. On each side of these archways, are steps that go upstairs to the weight room. The weight room overlooks the fieldhouse. Very historic gym.
Montini only mustered seven points in the first quarter, but most importantly held Richwoods to just one first quarter field goal, and that basket did not come until 0:20 left in the first quarter. The Knights only scored six points in the second quarter, all field goals by Mariah Smith. Montini led at the break, 21-8. Michala Johnson had 10 points in the first half, and Whitney Holloway added 7 points.
Again in the third quarter, Richwoods was held to single digits, as the Broncos outscored Montini (17-8). In this quarter, Katie Murphy accounted for nearly all of Richwoods scoring (6 of 8 points).
In fact, all of Richwoods scoring would be done by Katie Murphy and Mariah Smith throughout the game. They scored all but three of the Knights points. The first score by a non-Murphy or Smith came at the 1:35 mark in the fourth quarter, when Maggie Cunningham hit a three-pointer.
One of the strangest technical fouls was called in the fourth quarter, with about 2:30 left in the game. Montini had been whistled for nine fouls, when Kiki Wilson played a little tight defense on an in-bound up the court. This put Mariah Smith at the line for two free throws. After the second free throw was made, Montini coach Jason Nichols was telling Wilson that her foul was undisciplined. I could hear him talking directly to his player, and I was 12 rows up in the bleachers with headsets on. The official looked at coach Nichols, and gave him a Technical foul. In disbelief, he told the official he was talking to his player. The official then said, "I know", which made it even more bizarre. Jeers could be heard from the Montini fan section, in shock that their coach had been given a technical for, coaching, of all things!!!
Fortunately, for Montini they had a large lead, so the technical foul did not cost them anything, and the Broncos would go on to win, 50-33. Montini claimed 2nd place in the shootout (4-1), while Richwoods went (3-2).
Michala Johnson finished with 17 points and 13 rebounds for the Broncos. Mallory Sosnovich added 13 points, and Whitney Holloway finished with 11 points. Mariah Smith scored 17 points, and Katie Murphy added 13 points for the Knights. Richwoods committed 16 turnovers, to Montini's 12.
The All-Tournament team was announced after this game. It is listed below.
Sterling Shootout All-Tournament Team
MVP: Marquisha Harris (Moline)
Emily Kauzlarich (Moline)
Michala Johnson (Montini)
Whitney Holloway (Montini)
Whitney Adams (Montini)
Mariah Smith (Richwoods)
Katie Murphy (Richwoods)
After the game, I decided to feast on some Culver's, home of the butter burger. Culver's is my biggest fast food weakness. At 7:00, and a long drive to Macomb, I also made the decision to head back to Annawan and crash at my parents house again, then waking up early and driving straight into work. This would also save me roughly 70 miles of driving. Took Route 40 south out of Sterling/Rock Falls. Snowy roads in that area, but cleared up the further south I drove. Ran into some freezing rain right at the Whiteside/Bureau County line. It only lasted about 10 miles, and the roads were smooth sailing the rest of the trip.
The Quest File Notes
Game 38
Date: 12/22/09
Result: Montini rolls over Richwoods 50-33
Miles: 140 (eventually, as I made the trek home on Wednesday)
(12/22/09)
Lombard Montini (Class 3A #1) vs. Peoria Richwoods (Class 3A #3) (Girl's Basketball)
Sterling Shootout
There is a reason this game was saved for the final night....at least on paper. Two teams ranked in the top three of state, one of them the defending 3A champions (Richwoods), the other a sure-fire favorite to win it all this year (Montini), and a total of at least six future Division-1 players that would suit up for both teams.
Since I hadn't eaten anything since an eggs and toast breakfast at 8 a.m. I thought maybe I should grab some eats. Dove into a large slice of pizza from the concession stand. A messy slice, but for only $2, a pretty good deal. Stayed in the concessions area, and spoke with a member of the school staff at Sterling who was assigned to guard an area between the concession stand and the auditorium (where the Thomson Prison public hearing was being held). He said he had heard over 100 officers were on patrol throughout the high school campus.
While eating my pizza, the Montini sophomore team came walking through looking for the restrooms. At first, I thought it was the varsity players wondering why they weren't warming up. Then, I realized it was the sophomore team. It is my belief, Montini should be pretty good for the next few years, based on what they have in underclassmen at the varsity level, and the sheer size they have currently on the sophomore team. One of the members of the sophomore team is (6'4" Freshman) Malayna Johnson. Yes...that is the younger sister of UCONN-bound Michala Johnson.
I really love the atmosphere of Sterling's Homer Musgrove Fieldhouse. It is a very large gym, with old brick walls. The bleacher seating on each of the main sides only goes up about 12-13 rows, but seats plenty. On each baseline, there is also a short set of bleachers that has about 12 rows. Behind the east baseline bleachers, is where the concession area is. There are archways in the brick that give you access to the concessions. On each side of these archways, are steps that go upstairs to the weight room. The weight room overlooks the fieldhouse. Very historic gym.
Montini only mustered seven points in the first quarter, but most importantly held Richwoods to just one first quarter field goal, and that basket did not come until 0:20 left in the first quarter. The Knights only scored six points in the second quarter, all field goals by Mariah Smith. Montini led at the break, 21-8. Michala Johnson had 10 points in the first half, and Whitney Holloway added 7 points.
Again in the third quarter, Richwoods was held to single digits, as the Broncos outscored Montini (17-8). In this quarter, Katie Murphy accounted for nearly all of Richwoods scoring (6 of 8 points).
In fact, all of Richwoods scoring would be done by Katie Murphy and Mariah Smith throughout the game. They scored all but three of the Knights points. The first score by a non-Murphy or Smith came at the 1:35 mark in the fourth quarter, when Maggie Cunningham hit a three-pointer.
One of the strangest technical fouls was called in the fourth quarter, with about 2:30 left in the game. Montini had been whistled for nine fouls, when Kiki Wilson played a little tight defense on an in-bound up the court. This put Mariah Smith at the line for two free throws. After the second free throw was made, Montini coach Jason Nichols was telling Wilson that her foul was undisciplined. I could hear him talking directly to his player, and I was 12 rows up in the bleachers with headsets on. The official looked at coach Nichols, and gave him a Technical foul. In disbelief, he told the official he was talking to his player. The official then said, "I know", which made it even more bizarre. Jeers could be heard from the Montini fan section, in shock that their coach had been given a technical for, coaching, of all things!!!
Fortunately, for Montini they had a large lead, so the technical foul did not cost them anything, and the Broncos would go on to win, 50-33. Montini claimed 2nd place in the shootout (4-1), while Richwoods went (3-2).
Michala Johnson finished with 17 points and 13 rebounds for the Broncos. Mallory Sosnovich added 13 points, and Whitney Holloway finished with 11 points. Mariah Smith scored 17 points, and Katie Murphy added 13 points for the Knights. Richwoods committed 16 turnovers, to Montini's 12.
The All-Tournament team was announced after this game. It is listed below.
Sterling Shootout All-Tournament Team
MVP: Marquisha Harris (Moline)
Emily Kauzlarich (Moline)
Michala Johnson (Montini)
Whitney Holloway (Montini)
Whitney Adams (Montini)
Mariah Smith (Richwoods)
Katie Murphy (Richwoods)
After the game, I decided to feast on some Culver's, home of the butter burger. Culver's is my biggest fast food weakness. At 7:00, and a long drive to Macomb, I also made the decision to head back to Annawan and crash at my parents house again, then waking up early and driving straight into work. This would also save me roughly 70 miles of driving. Took Route 40 south out of Sterling/Rock Falls. Snowy roads in that area, but cleared up the further south I drove. Ran into some freezing rain right at the Whiteside/Bureau County line. It only lasted about 10 miles, and the roads were smooth sailing the rest of the trip.
The Quest File Notes
Game 38
Date: 12/22/09
Result: Montini rolls over Richwoods 50-33
Miles: 140 (eventually, as I made the trek home on Wednesday)
Game 37: Sterling vs. Freeport (Girl's Basketball)
Game 37
(12/22/09)
Sterling vs. Freeport (Girl's Basketball)
Sterling Shootout
I believe in an earlier blog entry, I remarked about how cold it was in the gym at the Sterling Fieldhouse. Cold! Uncomfortably cold in my short-sleeve polo. As I scanned the crowd, I noticed I was the only one that was not wearing long sleeves or a coat. Or, as in Richwoods case, bundled up in a Snuggie. Mariah Smith and a teammate (Lily Voelker maybe) were spotted in the end line bleachers wrapped up in their own blue snuggies.
Before the fourth broadcast, I decided to go "warm up". What a difference the gym and concessions area was in regards to heat. Too bad, there was an obstructed view from the concession stand, or I would have moved in there to broadcast.
On my way back in to the gym, I went over and spoke with Sterling boy's basketball coach Ryan Brown. He is in his first year guiding the Golden Warriors, and they are off to a (3-4) start. He tells me he has a couple sophomores that could see some more playing time in the second half of the season. Brown was working radio for the Sterling girl's game.
This was the only matchup of the day that didn't feature any D-1 players. Sterling was looking to claim a win in their own shootout, as both teams entered at (0-4) in the shootout. One of Sterling's players off the bench is Ember Schuldt, who is a fantastic golfer. She took 3rd place in the Class AA state finals this past fall.
The game got off to a slow start, with the hosts building a 9-6 lead after one quarter. They scored in bursts in the second quarter, taking a 28-13 lead into the half. Aleena Hammelman scored eight points in the first half, all in the second quarter to lead Sterling. Freeport was led by Caitlin Greene's eight points.
Slow-paced game could be described for this one, with the Golden Warriors leading 43-22 in the third quarter, and held the Pretzels without a field goal in the fourth quarter, outscoring Freeport 18-5 in the final eight minutes. Sterling would prevail 61-27 and improve to (9-6) on the season. Sloane Wolfe (6'2" Jr.) and Hammelman led Sterling with 14 points each, and Greene led the Pretzels with 10 points.
The Quest File Notes
Game 37
Date: 12/22/09
Result: Sterling claims only win of their shootout, beating Freeport 61-27
Miles: 0
(12/22/09)
Sterling vs. Freeport (Girl's Basketball)
Sterling Shootout
I believe in an earlier blog entry, I remarked about how cold it was in the gym at the Sterling Fieldhouse. Cold! Uncomfortably cold in my short-sleeve polo. As I scanned the crowd, I noticed I was the only one that was not wearing long sleeves or a coat. Or, as in Richwoods case, bundled up in a Snuggie. Mariah Smith and a teammate (Lily Voelker maybe) were spotted in the end line bleachers wrapped up in their own blue snuggies.
Before the fourth broadcast, I decided to go "warm up". What a difference the gym and concessions area was in regards to heat. Too bad, there was an obstructed view from the concession stand, or I would have moved in there to broadcast.
On my way back in to the gym, I went over and spoke with Sterling boy's basketball coach Ryan Brown. He is in his first year guiding the Golden Warriors, and they are off to a (3-4) start. He tells me he has a couple sophomores that could see some more playing time in the second half of the season. Brown was working radio for the Sterling girl's game.
This was the only matchup of the day that didn't feature any D-1 players. Sterling was looking to claim a win in their own shootout, as both teams entered at (0-4) in the shootout. One of Sterling's players off the bench is Ember Schuldt, who is a fantastic golfer. She took 3rd place in the Class AA state finals this past fall.
The game got off to a slow start, with the hosts building a 9-6 lead after one quarter. They scored in bursts in the second quarter, taking a 28-13 lead into the half. Aleena Hammelman scored eight points in the first half, all in the second quarter to lead Sterling. Freeport was led by Caitlin Greene's eight points.
Slow-paced game could be described for this one, with the Golden Warriors leading 43-22 in the third quarter, and held the Pretzels without a field goal in the fourth quarter, outscoring Freeport 18-5 in the final eight minutes. Sterling would prevail 61-27 and improve to (9-6) on the season. Sloane Wolfe (6'2" Jr.) and Hammelman led Sterling with 14 points each, and Greene led the Pretzels with 10 points.
The Quest File Notes
Game 37
Date: 12/22/09
Result: Sterling claims only win of their shootout, beating Freeport 61-27
Miles: 0
Game 36: Moline vs. Rockton Hononegah (Girl's Basketball)
Game 36
(12/22/09)
Moline vs. Rockton Hononegah (Girl's Basketball)
Sterling Shootout
With a win in this game, the Moline Maroons would claim the Sterling Shootout title, outright. Moline has just 8 players available, so depth is a concern. Two of their top players (Brittany Bush and Erika Leader) are out with injuries.
Hononegah coach Randy Weibel came up before the broadcast with his team's stats. He apologized for not getting back to me earlier. As much of a stats geek that I am, the main reason I use them is to look at free throws and points.
The Indians bring in an (8-5) record to this game, after beating Sterling (62-57) in the first game of the day. When I arrived at the gym, there was a woman from Hononegah sitting near the press table, so I was able to get their pronunciations.
Moline jumped out to an early 17-12 lead, led by a pair of baskets from Amanda Smith and Emily Kauzlarich. Lindsay Carroll had a hot second quarter for the Indians, draining three, three-pointers and had 14 points for Hononegah at the half. Moline led 37-34 at the break. The Maroons, as expected and what they have done all year, had a balanced scoring effort.
The Maroons won the third quarter as well, 16-15. Marquisha Harris dominated the quarter with eight points. The Indians had some hot outside shooting from Carroll, Erin Ryczek, and Elizabeth Jordan.
A slower pace in the fourth quarter, as Moline held on for the 64-59 win. The Indians made strides during the final eight minutes, but the Maroons were clutch at the free throw line when it counted, (5-7) during the fourth quarter.
Marquisha Harris scored 18 points for Moline in the victory, while Miranda Geever added 13 points, and Allyssa Decker pitched in 12 points. Hononegah was led by Lindsay Carroll's game-high 19 points. Erin Ryczek added 17 points, and Nicole Smith scored 14 points. Smith (6'3" So.) was pretty impressive for Hononegah. If she continues to improve, she could be a force.
The achilles heel for Hononegah in this game was turnovers in the second half. The Indians only committed five turnovers in the first half, but had 15 in the second half. Moline was even through, finishing with only 11 on the game, six in the first half, and the other five in the second half.
With the win, Moline goes (5-0) in the tournament, to claim the championship trophy outright. Hononegah finished the tournament, (3-2).
The Quest File Notes
Game 36
Date: 12/22/09
Result: Moline hangs on for 64-59 win over Hononegah and wins Sterling Shootout
Miles: 0
(12/22/09)
Moline vs. Rockton Hononegah (Girl's Basketball)
Sterling Shootout
With a win in this game, the Moline Maroons would claim the Sterling Shootout title, outright. Moline has just 8 players available, so depth is a concern. Two of their top players (Brittany Bush and Erika Leader) are out with injuries.
Hononegah coach Randy Weibel came up before the broadcast with his team's stats. He apologized for not getting back to me earlier. As much of a stats geek that I am, the main reason I use them is to look at free throws and points.
The Indians bring in an (8-5) record to this game, after beating Sterling (62-57) in the first game of the day. When I arrived at the gym, there was a woman from Hononegah sitting near the press table, so I was able to get their pronunciations.
Moline jumped out to an early 17-12 lead, led by a pair of baskets from Amanda Smith and Emily Kauzlarich. Lindsay Carroll had a hot second quarter for the Indians, draining three, three-pointers and had 14 points for Hononegah at the half. Moline led 37-34 at the break. The Maroons, as expected and what they have done all year, had a balanced scoring effort.
The Maroons won the third quarter as well, 16-15. Marquisha Harris dominated the quarter with eight points. The Indians had some hot outside shooting from Carroll, Erin Ryczek, and Elizabeth Jordan.
A slower pace in the fourth quarter, as Moline held on for the 64-59 win. The Indians made strides during the final eight minutes, but the Maroons were clutch at the free throw line when it counted, (5-7) during the fourth quarter.
Marquisha Harris scored 18 points for Moline in the victory, while Miranda Geever added 13 points, and Allyssa Decker pitched in 12 points. Hononegah was led by Lindsay Carroll's game-high 19 points. Erin Ryczek added 17 points, and Nicole Smith scored 14 points. Smith (6'3" So.) was pretty impressive for Hononegah. If she continues to improve, she could be a force.
The achilles heel for Hononegah in this game was turnovers in the second half. The Indians only committed five turnovers in the first half, but had 15 in the second half. Moline was even through, finishing with only 11 on the game, six in the first half, and the other five in the second half.
With the win, Moline goes (5-0) in the tournament, to claim the championship trophy outright. Hononegah finished the tournament, (3-2).
The Quest File Notes
Game 36
Date: 12/22/09
Result: Moline hangs on for 64-59 win over Hononegah and wins Sterling Shootout
Miles: 0
Game 35: Lombard Montini vs. Freeport (Girl's Basketball)
Game 35
(12/22/09)
Lombard Montini (Class 3A #1) vs. Freeport (Class 3A #5) (Girl's Basketball)
Sterling Shootout
Montini Catholic was one of the main reasons I decided to take this Tuesday off from work and broadcast the games at the Sterling Shootout. A roster that features four division-one players, including (6'3" Sr.) Michala Johnson that will be playing at UCONN, this was a team I wanted to catch before they made a run to Redbird Arena in the Class 3A postseason.
Joining Johnson as D-1 talent are; Allison Seberger (Illinois State), Courtney Thomas (Marquettee), and Whitney Holloway (Notre Dame). Not too shabby. The Broncos come into this matchup with a (9-1) record, their only loss to Moline a few days earlier by five points. Freeport, the fifth ranked team in Class 3A by the AP has fallen on hard times. The preseason polls are basically, "what have you done for me lately" rankings, not taking into effect what teams have coming back. The Pretzels lost four of their five starters from last year's squad and are also under the guidance of first-year coach Jennifer Slaght.
Between games, I went down and spoke with Montini coach Jason Nichols. He informed me that his starting (6'2" Guard) Allison Seberger left Sterling about an hour prior to this game with the flu. His starters would be; Holloway, Johnson, Thomas, Whitney Adams, and Mallory Sosnovich.
Then proceeded to the scorers table to get the Freeport starters and pronunciations. The Sterling P.A. announcer asked me for the Montini starters and pronunciations, then the Freeport scorekeeper also asked for starters. One of them asked me a question about Montini, can't recall what it was, but I said I was just broadcasting the game and wasn't from Montini. They assumed I was with the team, LOL. Funny thing is, this was the first instance of someone at the shootout thinking I was from Montini. The later time came when talking with a Sterling school employee at the concession stand later in the day.
Montini jumped on the Pretzels from the start, scoring at will. The Broncos took a 28-6 lead after the first quarter. Michala Johnson was unstoppable inside the paint, scoring eight points, while the Notre Dame-bound junior point guard Whitney Holloway added 8 first quarter points for Montini. At halftime, Montini held a 48-16 lead over the Pretzels, who took 2nd place in Class 3A the previous two seasons. Caitlin Greene, the lone starter from last year's team, had 10 first half points for the Pretzels.
Cruise control was set for the second half, with many different players getting in on both sides. Montini didn't lose much off the bench. They have some underclassmen that provided very good minutes. One to look out for is Diamond Thompson (6'4" Freshman). She will be fun to follow the next three years. Nakia Edom, another freshman saw action in the second half, as did Tianna Brown, a 6'0" sophomore.
Montini would prevail, 67-34. Michala Johnson scored 14 points for the Broncos, all in the first half. Whitney Adams added 13 points, and Whitney Holloway pitched in 12 points. Caitlin Greene ended up with 15 points for the Pretzels. Despite the lop-sided score, the turnover margin was almost even. I had Freeport with 13 turnovers, and Montini with 10.
The Quest File Notes
Game 35
Date: 12/22/09
Result: Montini cruises to 67-34 win over Freeport
Miles: 0
(12/22/09)
Lombard Montini (Class 3A #1) vs. Freeport (Class 3A #5) (Girl's Basketball)
Sterling Shootout
Montini Catholic was one of the main reasons I decided to take this Tuesday off from work and broadcast the games at the Sterling Shootout. A roster that features four division-one players, including (6'3" Sr.) Michala Johnson that will be playing at UCONN, this was a team I wanted to catch before they made a run to Redbird Arena in the Class 3A postseason.
Joining Johnson as D-1 talent are; Allison Seberger (Illinois State), Courtney Thomas (Marquettee), and Whitney Holloway (Notre Dame). Not too shabby. The Broncos come into this matchup with a (9-1) record, their only loss to Moline a few days earlier by five points. Freeport, the fifth ranked team in Class 3A by the AP has fallen on hard times. The preseason polls are basically, "what have you done for me lately" rankings, not taking into effect what teams have coming back. The Pretzels lost four of their five starters from last year's squad and are also under the guidance of first-year coach Jennifer Slaght.
Between games, I went down and spoke with Montini coach Jason Nichols. He informed me that his starting (6'2" Guard) Allison Seberger left Sterling about an hour prior to this game with the flu. His starters would be; Holloway, Johnson, Thomas, Whitney Adams, and Mallory Sosnovich.
Then proceeded to the scorers table to get the Freeport starters and pronunciations. The Sterling P.A. announcer asked me for the Montini starters and pronunciations, then the Freeport scorekeeper also asked for starters. One of them asked me a question about Montini, can't recall what it was, but I said I was just broadcasting the game and wasn't from Montini. They assumed I was with the team, LOL. Funny thing is, this was the first instance of someone at the shootout thinking I was from Montini. The later time came when talking with a Sterling school employee at the concession stand later in the day.
Montini jumped on the Pretzels from the start, scoring at will. The Broncos took a 28-6 lead after the first quarter. Michala Johnson was unstoppable inside the paint, scoring eight points, while the Notre Dame-bound junior point guard Whitney Holloway added 8 first quarter points for Montini. At halftime, Montini held a 48-16 lead over the Pretzels, who took 2nd place in Class 3A the previous two seasons. Caitlin Greene, the lone starter from last year's team, had 10 first half points for the Pretzels.
Cruise control was set for the second half, with many different players getting in on both sides. Montini didn't lose much off the bench. They have some underclassmen that provided very good minutes. One to look out for is Diamond Thompson (6'4" Freshman). She will be fun to follow the next three years. Nakia Edom, another freshman saw action in the second half, as did Tianna Brown, a 6'0" sophomore.
Montini would prevail, 67-34. Michala Johnson scored 14 points for the Broncos, all in the first half. Whitney Adams added 13 points, and Whitney Holloway pitched in 12 points. Caitlin Greene ended up with 15 points for the Pretzels. Despite the lop-sided score, the turnover margin was almost even. I had Freeport with 13 turnovers, and Montini with 10.
The Quest File Notes
Game 35
Date: 12/22/09
Result: Montini cruises to 67-34 win over Freeport
Miles: 0
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Game 34: Moline vs. Peoria Richwoods (Girl's Basketball)
Game 34
(12/22/09)
Moline vs. Peoria Richwoods (Girl's Basketball)
Sterling Shootout
With a stop over at the parents house in Annawan, I stayed up late updating the IHSSN Scoreboard, then an early wake-up call for coffee and breakfast. I planned to take off around 9:00 a.m. as the northern part of the state received a few inches of snow, plus the security detail that would be held at Sterling High School.
I let Garmin guide me to the Sterling Fieldhouse. All in all it did good, until arriving in Sterling. First, it tried to send me into the parking lot of a grocery store, then sent me on a wild goose chase, trying to ship me down a one-way street...the wrong way. I had to be a renegade and go my own way, which I was successful.
Several roads around the school were closed with extreme security detail, since the public hearing for the Thomson Correctional Center, housing the Guantanamo Bay prisoners is being held in the high school's auditorium. One parking lot, guarded by officers, was held for basketball fans only. There was a large lighted road sign pointing shootout fans to the right gym door (only one was open). At the gate, metal detectors and bag searches were being conducted. As my bags were checked, I joked that it was a pretty hectic day. One of the Illinois State Police officers looked at me, and said, "it's only begun". I asked how many officers in total were on the premises, but that could not be answered, only "a lot" was given.
I made it through security check, and took in the Hononegah/Sterling game, which tipped off at 10 a.m. I found my broadcast location at the field house and got set up. Pretty cold in the gym. Everything appeared to work....until about 10 minutes before air time of this game. My Behringer mixer board shorted, and was not showing power. This would make for a very frustrating day if I would be able to broadcast. I scraped and scraped, and went to the car to gather the radio station equipment, trying to piece together a set up that would broadcast through my computer. I found the right connecctions, and fortunately was able to go on the air at the right time.
Richwoods coach Todd Hursey came up and gave me his starters, as well as Moline statistician Dick McKinnon. McKinnon told me that two of Moline's prominent players would be out, Brittany Bush with a back injury suffered on Saturday, and Erika Leader with a stress fracture in her hand, suffered in practice on Monday. Moline was down to eight players.
The Knights jumped out to a 9-8 first quarter lead, forcing six Moline turnovers in the first quarter. It was all Moline, though, in the second quarter, outscoring Richwoods 18-5, and took a 26-14 lead at halftime. Emily Kauzlarich had the hot hand for the Maroons with 11 first half points, knocking down three, three-pointers in the first two quarters.
Richwoods battled back in the second half, outscoring Moline 8-6, but trailed 32-22 entering the final quarter. Moline would hold on to preserve the 44-35 win. During the second half, a brief delay was held as a Richwoods (I believe) fan was escorted out. The official made the motion to throw him out, and he objected at first, before Sterling Athletic Director Nathan DeLany escorted the fan out of the gym.
Kauzlarich finished with a game-high 19 points, while the Maroons also got 12 points from Marquisha Harris. Richwoods was led by Mariah Smith's 14 points.
The Quest File Notes
Game 34
Date: 12/22/09
Result: Moline holds off Richwoods 44-35
Miles: 44
(12/22/09)
Moline vs. Peoria Richwoods (Girl's Basketball)
Sterling Shootout
With a stop over at the parents house in Annawan, I stayed up late updating the IHSSN Scoreboard, then an early wake-up call for coffee and breakfast. I planned to take off around 9:00 a.m. as the northern part of the state received a few inches of snow, plus the security detail that would be held at Sterling High School.
I let Garmin guide me to the Sterling Fieldhouse. All in all it did good, until arriving in Sterling. First, it tried to send me into the parking lot of a grocery store, then sent me on a wild goose chase, trying to ship me down a one-way street...the wrong way. I had to be a renegade and go my own way, which I was successful.
Several roads around the school were closed with extreme security detail, since the public hearing for the Thomson Correctional Center, housing the Guantanamo Bay prisoners is being held in the high school's auditorium. One parking lot, guarded by officers, was held for basketball fans only. There was a large lighted road sign pointing shootout fans to the right gym door (only one was open). At the gate, metal detectors and bag searches were being conducted. As my bags were checked, I joked that it was a pretty hectic day. One of the Illinois State Police officers looked at me, and said, "it's only begun". I asked how many officers in total were on the premises, but that could not be answered, only "a lot" was given.
I made it through security check, and took in the Hononegah/Sterling game, which tipped off at 10 a.m. I found my broadcast location at the field house and got set up. Pretty cold in the gym. Everything appeared to work....until about 10 minutes before air time of this game. My Behringer mixer board shorted, and was not showing power. This would make for a very frustrating day if I would be able to broadcast. I scraped and scraped, and went to the car to gather the radio station equipment, trying to piece together a set up that would broadcast through my computer. I found the right connecctions, and fortunately was able to go on the air at the right time.
Richwoods coach Todd Hursey came up and gave me his starters, as well as Moline statistician Dick McKinnon. McKinnon told me that two of Moline's prominent players would be out, Brittany Bush with a back injury suffered on Saturday, and Erika Leader with a stress fracture in her hand, suffered in practice on Monday. Moline was down to eight players.
The Knights jumped out to a 9-8 first quarter lead, forcing six Moline turnovers in the first quarter. It was all Moline, though, in the second quarter, outscoring Richwoods 18-5, and took a 26-14 lead at halftime. Emily Kauzlarich had the hot hand for the Maroons with 11 first half points, knocking down three, three-pointers in the first two quarters.
Richwoods battled back in the second half, outscoring Moline 8-6, but trailed 32-22 entering the final quarter. Moline would hold on to preserve the 44-35 win. During the second half, a brief delay was held as a Richwoods (I believe) fan was escorted out. The official made the motion to throw him out, and he objected at first, before Sterling Athletic Director Nathan DeLany escorted the fan out of the gym.
Kauzlarich finished with a game-high 19 points, while the Maroons also got 12 points from Marquisha Harris. Richwoods was led by Mariah Smith's 14 points.
The Quest File Notes
Game 34
Date: 12/22/09
Result: Moline holds off Richwoods 44-35
Miles: 44
Monday, December 21, 2009
Game 33: Galesburg @ Canton (Girl's Basketball)
Game 33
(12/21/09)
Galesburg @ Canton (Girl's Basketball)
The 700 Club. One win away for Galesburg girl's basketball coach Evan Massey. Currently, coach Massey is the 3rd all-time winningest head coach in Illinois high school girl's basketball history, and looks to reach another milestone in a non-conference matchup at Canton.
This game was originally scheduled to be played at the Canton High School gym, the normal home to girl's basketball. The boy's basketball team plays at the historic Alice Ingersoll gymnasium, which is downtown, away from the school. A Title IX lawsuit was brought against the school over the summer, and a settlement was reach, that stated the girl's would get locker rooms at Ingersoll Gym, and would have to play five games at the "boy's gym".
These situations are usually pretty sticky, and from the sound of most people in Canton I talked to that were either a part of the girl's basketball program, or followers, they were not happy. No, for the most part, they felt it was at a disadvantage for the team to play in a "foreign" gym.
As a matter of fact, head coach Layne Langholf told me before the game he didn't know what to do, he felt lost playing a "home" game at a fairly unfamiliar location. The team had only practiced in this gym once, and in his 11 seasons at the school, only two games had been played here. Coach Langholf joked to me that he keeps telling himself, "what would I do if I were in Morton", referencing a routine for an away game.
Before arriving at the gym, I had to swing by John Thiel gym in Galesburg to pick up the equipment. I had Jason Bates leave it there after Saturday's broadcast. I arrived at the school at the same time the bus was leaving for Canton. Fortunately, as I pulled up Galesburg assistant Jacque Howard was just leaving the building, so she was able to let me in.
Heading to Canton is mostly back roads, some scenic views of Knox and Fulton counties. One of my favorites is Maquon, for some reason. It just seems like a once-happening little town. Of course, with two local drinking establishments, I'm sure it can get happening on occasion. Another view from these roads between Galesburg and Canton can be of the wildlife. Near Fairview, I spotted about a half dozen deer grazing in a corn field.
I arrived at the Alice Ingersoll gym about 5:00. Surprisingly, there were quite a few bodies in the gym at this early time. I spoke with coach Langholf extensively about the Title IX issue, as well as his team's holiday tournament, the Beardstown Lady Tiger Classic, one of the premier holiday tournaments for small-school girl's basketball.
My radio cohort Leon Groover, from WBYS/WCDD radio in Canton arrived at the gym, and spoke to him briefly. He would have a three-man crew for the night's game, with Bob Wagner and Tony Z. Following my interview with Langholf, I sat down and chatted with Coach Massey. We talked about the past weekend's games, in particular Moline, who coming off a loss at home to United Township, defeated Class 3A (#1) Montini on Saturday. He also gave me grief about not updating the IHSSN Scoreboard on Saturday. Oops!
Took to the airwaves earlier than normal, as my pregame interviews were in the 12-minute range. Called the final two minutes of the sophomore contest, which was won by Galesburg, snapping a three-game skid and putting them back at .500 on the season.
The varsity matchup got off to a hot start for the visiting Silver Streaks, as they nailed four of their first five three-point attempts, and finished with six in the first quarter alone. Galesburg led Canton 24-20 after eight minutes.
It was more of the same in the second quarter, with the Streaks dropping five more three's, but more importantly giving the Canton offense headaches. The Little Giants had trouble moving the ball past half court, and turned the ball over 25 times in the first half, while the Streaks coughed up the ball just nine times before halftime. Galesburg took a 45-36 lead into the locker room.
Despite turning the ball over time and time again, Canton was able to hang in the game throughout much of the third quarter, but trailed by 11 points after three (64-53). It was all Galesburg in the final frame, outscoring the hosts, 23-12. Coming into the game Galesburg had just shot 54% from the free throw line, but the Streaks were hot tonight. GHS made 20 of their first 26 free throw attempts, and finished (24-34) for a 71% mark. Tai Peachey went 9-10 from the line, with eight of those makes coming down the stretch at a crucial time.
Outside the three-point line, the Streaks were (17-48), for 35%. With those 17 three-pointers, Galesburg has now made 169 on the season, which places them 28th all-time in the IHSA record books. The Streaks turned the ball over 16 times, while forcing 36 Canton turnovers. Galesburg would win, 87-65, scoring 80+ points for the seventh time this season.
Evan Massey joined the 700-Club with (Chicago) Marshall's Dorthy Gaters and (Oak Park) Fenwick's Dave Power. A large contingent of Galesburg fans made the trip to Canton, and the crowd held up gold placards that read, "700 Wins". Another yellow card was handed out that read, "I was there....for Coach Massey's 700th", which features a long list of his coaching credits on the backside.
After the game, I would make the trip north up Route 78, for a stop in Annawan, before heading to the Sterling Shootout on Tuesday. It was a quick trip, since 60 miles is really one of my shorter drives. It was smooth sailing until reaching Kewanee. About three miles south of Kewanee, there was noticeable snow (just a dusting) on the road, however just north of Kewanee, that turned into snow covered roads. I had to drive 40 mph most of the way from Kewanee to Annawan, and it looked like about 2 inches had fallen in Annawan upon arrival.
The Quest File Notes
Game 33
Date: 12/21/09
Result: Galesburg gives coach Evan Massey 700th win over Canton, 87-65
Miles: 164
(12/21/09)
Galesburg @ Canton (Girl's Basketball)
The 700 Club. One win away for Galesburg girl's basketball coach Evan Massey. Currently, coach Massey is the 3rd all-time winningest head coach in Illinois high school girl's basketball history, and looks to reach another milestone in a non-conference matchup at Canton.
This game was originally scheduled to be played at the Canton High School gym, the normal home to girl's basketball. The boy's basketball team plays at the historic Alice Ingersoll gymnasium, which is downtown, away from the school. A Title IX lawsuit was brought against the school over the summer, and a settlement was reach, that stated the girl's would get locker rooms at Ingersoll Gym, and would have to play five games at the "boy's gym".
These situations are usually pretty sticky, and from the sound of most people in Canton I talked to that were either a part of the girl's basketball program, or followers, they were not happy. No, for the most part, they felt it was at a disadvantage for the team to play in a "foreign" gym.
As a matter of fact, head coach Layne Langholf told me before the game he didn't know what to do, he felt lost playing a "home" game at a fairly unfamiliar location. The team had only practiced in this gym once, and in his 11 seasons at the school, only two games had been played here. Coach Langholf joked to me that he keeps telling himself, "what would I do if I were in Morton", referencing a routine for an away game.
Before arriving at the gym, I had to swing by John Thiel gym in Galesburg to pick up the equipment. I had Jason Bates leave it there after Saturday's broadcast. I arrived at the school at the same time the bus was leaving for Canton. Fortunately, as I pulled up Galesburg assistant Jacque Howard was just leaving the building, so she was able to let me in.
Heading to Canton is mostly back roads, some scenic views of Knox and Fulton counties. One of my favorites is Maquon, for some reason. It just seems like a once-happening little town. Of course, with two local drinking establishments, I'm sure it can get happening on occasion. Another view from these roads between Galesburg and Canton can be of the wildlife. Near Fairview, I spotted about a half dozen deer grazing in a corn field.
I arrived at the Alice Ingersoll gym about 5:00. Surprisingly, there were quite a few bodies in the gym at this early time. I spoke with coach Langholf extensively about the Title IX issue, as well as his team's holiday tournament, the Beardstown Lady Tiger Classic, one of the premier holiday tournaments for small-school girl's basketball.
My radio cohort Leon Groover, from WBYS/WCDD radio in Canton arrived at the gym, and spoke to him briefly. He would have a three-man crew for the night's game, with Bob Wagner and Tony Z. Following my interview with Langholf, I sat down and chatted with Coach Massey. We talked about the past weekend's games, in particular Moline, who coming off a loss at home to United Township, defeated Class 3A (#1) Montini on Saturday. He also gave me grief about not updating the IHSSN Scoreboard on Saturday. Oops!
Took to the airwaves earlier than normal, as my pregame interviews were in the 12-minute range. Called the final two minutes of the sophomore contest, which was won by Galesburg, snapping a three-game skid and putting them back at .500 on the season.
The varsity matchup got off to a hot start for the visiting Silver Streaks, as they nailed four of their first five three-point attempts, and finished with six in the first quarter alone. Galesburg led Canton 24-20 after eight minutes.
It was more of the same in the second quarter, with the Streaks dropping five more three's, but more importantly giving the Canton offense headaches. The Little Giants had trouble moving the ball past half court, and turned the ball over 25 times in the first half, while the Streaks coughed up the ball just nine times before halftime. Galesburg took a 45-36 lead into the locker room.
Despite turning the ball over time and time again, Canton was able to hang in the game throughout much of the third quarter, but trailed by 11 points after three (64-53). It was all Galesburg in the final frame, outscoring the hosts, 23-12. Coming into the game Galesburg had just shot 54% from the free throw line, but the Streaks were hot tonight. GHS made 20 of their first 26 free throw attempts, and finished (24-34) for a 71% mark. Tai Peachey went 9-10 from the line, with eight of those makes coming down the stretch at a crucial time.
Outside the three-point line, the Streaks were (17-48), for 35%. With those 17 three-pointers, Galesburg has now made 169 on the season, which places them 28th all-time in the IHSA record books. The Streaks turned the ball over 16 times, while forcing 36 Canton turnovers. Galesburg would win, 87-65, scoring 80+ points for the seventh time this season.
Evan Massey joined the 700-Club with (Chicago) Marshall's Dorthy Gaters and (Oak Park) Fenwick's Dave Power. A large contingent of Galesburg fans made the trip to Canton, and the crowd held up gold placards that read, "700 Wins". Another yellow card was handed out that read, "I was there....for Coach Massey's 700th", which features a long list of his coaching credits on the backside.
After the game, I would make the trip north up Route 78, for a stop in Annawan, before heading to the Sterling Shootout on Tuesday. It was a quick trip, since 60 miles is really one of my shorter drives. It was smooth sailing until reaching Kewanee. About three miles south of Kewanee, there was noticeable snow (just a dusting) on the road, however just north of Kewanee, that turned into snow covered roads. I had to drive 40 mph most of the way from Kewanee to Annawan, and it looked like about 2 inches had fallen in Annawan upon arrival.
The Quest File Notes
Game 33
Date: 12/21/09
Result: Galesburg gives coach Evan Massey 700th win over Canton, 87-65
Miles: 164
Saturday, December 19, 2009
Game 32: Galesburg vs. Davenport Assumption (Boy's Basketball)
Game 32
(12/19/09)
Galesburg vs. Davenport, IA Assumption (Boy's Basketball)
Iowa-Illinois Shootout (@ Augustana College)
Today would be a long/short day. Confusing I know. To put it simply, a lot to do in a small amount of time. With Gary Petersen, our Galesburg boy's basketball broadcaster, unable to broadcast, I would assume those responsibilities with Jimmie Carr. Jason Bates would take over the Galesburg girl's broadcast at GHS vs. Maine South.
Jason is sort of a freelance broadcaster, as he fills in for our Prairie Radio Communications stations in Canton and Galesburg, along with helping John Hoscheidt at WRMJ-Aledo, and Regional Radio in Kewanee. He was one of the first broadcasters I worked with when I broke into the business working for the now-defunct WHHK-Galva and WGEN-Geneseo.
Since our radio stations had a wide arrange of games on this final Saturday before Christmas, there was an equipment logjam. First off, Gary left his GHS boy's equipment with Jimmie to bring to Augustana for the Iowa-Illinois Shootout game. John Ring had the assignment for the United Red Storm girl's basketball games at the Knoxville-Abingdon Tournament, and later at the Ridgewood/ROWVA Tournament for the United boy's championship game against ROWVA.
I took off for Galesburg early in the morning to set up the other set of equipment at John Thiel Gymasium in Galesburg for Jason Bates. The GHS Freshman girl's were facing Rock Island, so I watched a few minutes of that game, while setting up the equipment. After that, I set off for the Quad Cities to take in some early action at the Illinois-Iowa Shootout, which was actually renamed this year (Genesis/PSP or something Shootout).
My first time at Augustana College for a basketball game(s). It seemed as though I parked in Colona with the hike I had to make. That is one thing I have been notorious for, finding a parking spot as far away from the gate as possible. It keeps me thin!
Bill Horrell met me at the door. I guess he is the media liason for the shootout. He will probably read this and correct me. I must say, the organizers of this shootout do a tremendous job. Dave Wrath and Pete Ivanic coordinate everything and make everyone has everything! Kudos.
I was able to catch the finale of the Alleman and Davenport North game, which the Illinois side won handily. Alleman was victorious (69-51) in the first game of the shootout. Keelan Prince scored 24 points, and Tyler Yeocum added 22 points. Spoke with Aaron Brenner of the Quad City Times, and I remarked how great the QC Times website was for schedules, scores, and statistics for the Quad City teams. The Geneseo High School radio station kids were also there, preparing for the Geneseo/Davenport West broadcast. I used to cover Geneseo games for the old WGEN radio station and worked with former Geneseo girl's coach Gary Harlacher. I asked about old Harlow, and Geneseo softball coach Bob Petit. Geneseo would win the second game of the shootout.
During that Geneseo game, Jimmie Carr arrived, equipment in hand. I spoke with Galesburg coach Mike Reynolds and taped the pregame interview. I had assumed not much time went into the Iowa/Illinois Shootout matchups, but I was wrong. Coach Reynolds told me he had sent scouts to two of their games, and also had tape on them. He does much more preparation than a radio broadcaster did for this game, LOL.
One thing I like about this shootout is the length of time between games (30 minutes). That gives us broadcasters ample time to run down to the hospitality room for a quick bite to eat. I did just that, and the brownies were fantastic. The pulled pork was amazing as well!
Game time! Assumption jumped out to a 16-11 lead after one quarter. Three of Galesburg's four field goals were three-pointers. The Silver Streaks jumped back into the game at halftime, taking a 27-26 lead into the break.
Both teams had limited turnovers in the first half. Galesburg with six and Assumption with 7. The Knights would outscore Galesburg 18-11 in the 3rd quarter, taking a 44-38 lead into the fourth quarter. Assumption starts three players at 6'5", and they did a bulk of the damage. Leading the way was J.T. Vonderhaar, who scored 26 points. In all, Assumption received 49 of their 64 points from their three big men.
Galesburg couldn't get over the eight-point deficit, and wound up losing (64-57). Vonderhaar scored 26 points and pulled down 6 rebounds for Assumption, while Joe Daniel added 15 points and 14 rebounds. The Streaks were led by Victor Davis with 16 points and 7 rebounds, while Brandon Thompson had a nice night as well (15 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists, 4 steals).
Took in the first quarter of the United Township/Bettendorf matchup before taking off. A great crowd was already on hand in the Carver Center at Augie with three games left. Division-One Scouts were on hand from Northwestern, Ball State, and Eastern Illinois.
After leaving, Jimmie and I took in Greenbriar Bar & Lounge in Moline. Great small bar where we spoke some more basketball in preparation for the holiday tournaments next week. Jimmie also shared some great stories of covering high school hoops, including one Chicago Public League coach telling him, "I know more about my team than you do", after he had posed a question during the state tournament.
The Quest File Notes
Game 32
Date: 12/19/09
Result: Assumption beats Galesburg 64-57
Miles: 185
(12/19/09)
Galesburg vs. Davenport, IA Assumption (Boy's Basketball)
Iowa-Illinois Shootout (@ Augustana College)
Today would be a long/short day. Confusing I know. To put it simply, a lot to do in a small amount of time. With Gary Petersen, our Galesburg boy's basketball broadcaster, unable to broadcast, I would assume those responsibilities with Jimmie Carr. Jason Bates would take over the Galesburg girl's broadcast at GHS vs. Maine South.
Jason is sort of a freelance broadcaster, as he fills in for our Prairie Radio Communications stations in Canton and Galesburg, along with helping John Hoscheidt at WRMJ-Aledo, and Regional Radio in Kewanee. He was one of the first broadcasters I worked with when I broke into the business working for the now-defunct WHHK-Galva and WGEN-Geneseo.
Since our radio stations had a wide arrange of games on this final Saturday before Christmas, there was an equipment logjam. First off, Gary left his GHS boy's equipment with Jimmie to bring to Augustana for the Iowa-Illinois Shootout game. John Ring had the assignment for the United Red Storm girl's basketball games at the Knoxville-Abingdon Tournament, and later at the Ridgewood/ROWVA Tournament for the United boy's championship game against ROWVA.
I took off for Galesburg early in the morning to set up the other set of equipment at John Thiel Gymasium in Galesburg for Jason Bates. The GHS Freshman girl's were facing Rock Island, so I watched a few minutes of that game, while setting up the equipment. After that, I set off for the Quad Cities to take in some early action at the Illinois-Iowa Shootout, which was actually renamed this year (Genesis/PSP or something Shootout).
My first time at Augustana College for a basketball game(s). It seemed as though I parked in Colona with the hike I had to make. That is one thing I have been notorious for, finding a parking spot as far away from the gate as possible. It keeps me thin!
Bill Horrell met me at the door. I guess he is the media liason for the shootout. He will probably read this and correct me. I must say, the organizers of this shootout do a tremendous job. Dave Wrath and Pete Ivanic coordinate everything and make everyone has everything! Kudos.
I was able to catch the finale of the Alleman and Davenport North game, which the Illinois side won handily. Alleman was victorious (69-51) in the first game of the shootout. Keelan Prince scored 24 points, and Tyler Yeocum added 22 points. Spoke with Aaron Brenner of the Quad City Times, and I remarked how great the QC Times website was for schedules, scores, and statistics for the Quad City teams. The Geneseo High School radio station kids were also there, preparing for the Geneseo/Davenport West broadcast. I used to cover Geneseo games for the old WGEN radio station and worked with former Geneseo girl's coach Gary Harlacher. I asked about old Harlow, and Geneseo softball coach Bob Petit. Geneseo would win the second game of the shootout.
During that Geneseo game, Jimmie Carr arrived, equipment in hand. I spoke with Galesburg coach Mike Reynolds and taped the pregame interview. I had assumed not much time went into the Iowa/Illinois Shootout matchups, but I was wrong. Coach Reynolds told me he had sent scouts to two of their games, and also had tape on them. He does much more preparation than a radio broadcaster did for this game, LOL.
One thing I like about this shootout is the length of time between games (30 minutes). That gives us broadcasters ample time to run down to the hospitality room for a quick bite to eat. I did just that, and the brownies were fantastic. The pulled pork was amazing as well!
Game time! Assumption jumped out to a 16-11 lead after one quarter. Three of Galesburg's four field goals were three-pointers. The Silver Streaks jumped back into the game at halftime, taking a 27-26 lead into the break.
Both teams had limited turnovers in the first half. Galesburg with six and Assumption with 7. The Knights would outscore Galesburg 18-11 in the 3rd quarter, taking a 44-38 lead into the fourth quarter. Assumption starts three players at 6'5", and they did a bulk of the damage. Leading the way was J.T. Vonderhaar, who scored 26 points. In all, Assumption received 49 of their 64 points from their three big men.
Galesburg couldn't get over the eight-point deficit, and wound up losing (64-57). Vonderhaar scored 26 points and pulled down 6 rebounds for Assumption, while Joe Daniel added 15 points and 14 rebounds. The Streaks were led by Victor Davis with 16 points and 7 rebounds, while Brandon Thompson had a nice night as well (15 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists, 4 steals).
Took in the first quarter of the United Township/Bettendorf matchup before taking off. A great crowd was already on hand in the Carver Center at Augie with three games left. Division-One Scouts were on hand from Northwestern, Ball State, and Eastern Illinois.
After leaving, Jimmie and I took in Greenbriar Bar & Lounge in Moline. Great small bar where we spoke some more basketball in preparation for the holiday tournaments next week. Jimmie also shared some great stories of covering high school hoops, including one Chicago Public League coach telling him, "I know more about my team than you do", after he had posed a question during the state tournament.
The Quest File Notes
Game 32
Date: 12/19/09
Result: Assumption beats Galesburg 64-57
Miles: 185
Game 31: Rockridge @ Monmouth-Roseville (Boy's Basketball)
Game 31
(12/18/09)
Rockridge @ Monmouth-Roseville (Boy's Basketball)
A small collection of oddities would occur in the Monmouth-Roseville Titans home opener against Rockridge in Olympic Conference action. I checked after the game, no full moon.
The original home opener was weathered out a couple weeks ago, hence the late start on the home portion of the schedule. Despite it being the home-court, Monmouth-Roseville's gym is my least favorite to broadcast in. The broadcast positions are up in the corners of the very small gym, and you have to plow through the fans to get up and down, so I try to do as minimal travel from bottom to top as much as possible. The gym is probably one of the hottest around, and I cannot see the main scoreboard from our vantage point. Two improvements were made since last season, though.
From our broadcast corner, it is seperated from the set of bleachers, and there was about a three-foot step across you had to make. It would be a long fall if you slipped! A small bridge was built this year. Big heater units (I think that's what they were) were also in our corner that made it very cramped. In our position, that was taken out, giving ample space.
The first oddity of the night occurred earlier in the day. When officials fired up the scoreboards, the main scoreboard burned out. It was completely out. This is the only scoreboard in the gym that denotes team fouls, personal fouls, etc. The second oddity came just before tipoff of the JV game, as the padding around one of the backboards came off.
The varsity matchup started out furious for the Titans, jumping out to an 11-2 lead on Rockridge. The Rockets were forced into turnovers on their first three posessions, and really struggled against the Titans defense. Rockridge only attempted two field goals in the first five minutes of the game.
Monmouth-Roseville started turning the ball over in the second quarter, allowing Rockridge to start climbing back in the game. At the 6:20 mark in the second quarter, we may have had our first-ever high school basketball snowball delay. A snowball appeared to fly out of the Monmouth-Roseville student section and right onto the playing floor, hitting near the free throw line nearest the main gates in the gym. The game was halted for several minutes. Apparently, the snowball flew in through an open window. The gym was extremely hot, so several windows throughout the gym were open. There were no finger pointing in the stands, so it appeared it came from outside through the open window. A very accurate throw.
At halftime, the Titans led 26-17. Rockridge struggled with their ball handling, turning it over 12 times, however, the Titans committed 10 turnovers themselves in the first half. On the air at halftime, first-year Monmouth-Roseville High School music teacher Kevin Ferry talked at halftime. The High School Velocity team performed the National Anthem before the game. It was also learned that Velocity would perform the National Anthem later this season for the Peoria Riverman hockey team, and next summer at Busch Stadium for the St. Louis Cardinals.
It was a slow third quarter for the hosts, scoring just nine points in a quarter that was won by the visiting Rockets (11-9). Rockridge would pull within five points, but the Titans would storm back and take an 11-point lead at times. B.J. Salyers had a big fourth quarter, scoring seven points, but went (0-3) from the free throw line.
Monmouth-Roseville held on for the (52-44) victory, improving to (6-3) and winning their first Olympic Conference game (1-2), while Rockridge dropped to (5-4, 1-2). The Titans snapped a three-game losing streak, while also snapping Rockridge's three-game winning streak.
Rockridge Sophomore Joe Heath exploded for 28 points, a game-high. Markus Hunter led Monmouth-Roseville with 17 points, and B.J. Salyers added 11 points. The Titans, who turned the ball over 10 times in the first half, committed just three second half turnovers. Monmouth-Roseville struggled at the free throw line, though (15-27).
Snow had fallen through the afternoon and evening, which created some nasty road conditions on Route 67. As I left Monmouth, the Macomb fan contingent was also headed home from their game at Sherrard. Just one-lane was cleared on the highway which created a long, long line of cars, held to just 40 mph all the way home. As much as I could, I tried to see how many cars were in this line, but there were too many to count.
The Quest File Notes
Game 31
Date: 12/18/09
Result: Monmouth-Roseville takes care of Rockridge, 52-44 in home opener
Miles: 70
(12/18/09)
Rockridge @ Monmouth-Roseville (Boy's Basketball)
A small collection of oddities would occur in the Monmouth-Roseville Titans home opener against Rockridge in Olympic Conference action. I checked after the game, no full moon.
The original home opener was weathered out a couple weeks ago, hence the late start on the home portion of the schedule. Despite it being the home-court, Monmouth-Roseville's gym is my least favorite to broadcast in. The broadcast positions are up in the corners of the very small gym, and you have to plow through the fans to get up and down, so I try to do as minimal travel from bottom to top as much as possible. The gym is probably one of the hottest around, and I cannot see the main scoreboard from our vantage point. Two improvements were made since last season, though.
From our broadcast corner, it is seperated from the set of bleachers, and there was about a three-foot step across you had to make. It would be a long fall if you slipped! A small bridge was built this year. Big heater units (I think that's what they were) were also in our corner that made it very cramped. In our position, that was taken out, giving ample space.
The first oddity of the night occurred earlier in the day. When officials fired up the scoreboards, the main scoreboard burned out. It was completely out. This is the only scoreboard in the gym that denotes team fouls, personal fouls, etc. The second oddity came just before tipoff of the JV game, as the padding around one of the backboards came off.
The varsity matchup started out furious for the Titans, jumping out to an 11-2 lead on Rockridge. The Rockets were forced into turnovers on their first three posessions, and really struggled against the Titans defense. Rockridge only attempted two field goals in the first five minutes of the game.
Monmouth-Roseville started turning the ball over in the second quarter, allowing Rockridge to start climbing back in the game. At the 6:20 mark in the second quarter, we may have had our first-ever high school basketball snowball delay. A snowball appeared to fly out of the Monmouth-Roseville student section and right onto the playing floor, hitting near the free throw line nearest the main gates in the gym. The game was halted for several minutes. Apparently, the snowball flew in through an open window. The gym was extremely hot, so several windows throughout the gym were open. There were no finger pointing in the stands, so it appeared it came from outside through the open window. A very accurate throw.
At halftime, the Titans led 26-17. Rockridge struggled with their ball handling, turning it over 12 times, however, the Titans committed 10 turnovers themselves in the first half. On the air at halftime, first-year Monmouth-Roseville High School music teacher Kevin Ferry talked at halftime. The High School Velocity team performed the National Anthem before the game. It was also learned that Velocity would perform the National Anthem later this season for the Peoria Riverman hockey team, and next summer at Busch Stadium for the St. Louis Cardinals.
It was a slow third quarter for the hosts, scoring just nine points in a quarter that was won by the visiting Rockets (11-9). Rockridge would pull within five points, but the Titans would storm back and take an 11-point lead at times. B.J. Salyers had a big fourth quarter, scoring seven points, but went (0-3) from the free throw line.
Monmouth-Roseville held on for the (52-44) victory, improving to (6-3) and winning their first Olympic Conference game (1-2), while Rockridge dropped to (5-4, 1-2). The Titans snapped a three-game losing streak, while also snapping Rockridge's three-game winning streak.
Rockridge Sophomore Joe Heath exploded for 28 points, a game-high. Markus Hunter led Monmouth-Roseville with 17 points, and B.J. Salyers added 11 points. The Titans, who turned the ball over 10 times in the first half, committed just three second half turnovers. Monmouth-Roseville struggled at the free throw line, though (15-27).
Snow had fallen through the afternoon and evening, which created some nasty road conditions on Route 67. As I left Monmouth, the Macomb fan contingent was also headed home from their game at Sherrard. Just one-lane was cleared on the highway which created a long, long line of cars, held to just 40 mph all the way home. As much as I could, I tried to see how many cars were in this line, but there were too many to count.
The Quest File Notes
Game 31
Date: 12/18/09
Result: Monmouth-Roseville takes care of Rockridge, 52-44 in home opener
Miles: 70
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Game 30: Galesburg @ Alleman (Girl's Basketball)
Game 30
(12/17/09)
Galesburg @ Alleman (Girl's Basketball)
I felt a little more prepared for this game than last night's, but with three different sets of equipment, I still felt a little uneasy heading to Rock Island's Alleman Catholic High School.
Fortunately, I had a scorebook for this one. I feel lost without a scorebook. Picked up four scorebooks at Hibbett's Sports in Macomb before heading to work this morning. They are a little different than the standard green basketball scorebooks, so it is a little getting used to. These are easier to use, and feel less cluttered than the green books.
Heading north of Monmouth on Route 67, there was a terrible odor just north of town. It was so bad I held my breath. A very strong sulphur smell. I called Gary Petersen, our Galesburg boy's broadcaster, to see if he had found our other cell phone in his equipment bag. He did have it, so as to not use my Razor, we arranged to meet in Milan, since he was coming from Muscatine.
Planned to meet at Pinnochio's Gourmet Pizza, but it was so packed, I didn't find a parking spot until Maid Rite. I will have to check that pizza joint out one of these days. Picked up the cell phone, and was Alleman bound.
Alleman A.D. Steve Smithers met me at the press tables at the high school gym. I arrived about midway through the first quarter of the sophomore game, tardy for me. The broadcast setup is certainly unique here. We are set right at center court, but the press tables are about four or five rows up from the floor, and are spread across a tunnel. The tunnel goes to what appears a storage room. I was very nervous, as I sat five rows up with nothing behind me, and the floor right below.
I am glad that Selam Mulugeta is a senior. The 6'2" post is very fun to watch, but I butcher her last name more times in a broadcast than I can count! For some reason, I keep calling her Muh-loo-get-uh, while the actual pronunciation is Moo-loo-get-uh. I am even having trouble spelling out the correct and incorrect versions. Moving on.
Galesburg took a 16-13 lead after one quarter, as Jamie Johnson broke a 13-13 tie with a long ball. The Streaks held a 30-27 lead at halftime. The Pioneers committed an Un-Allemanesque 15 turnovers in the first half, but a majority came in bunches during the second quarter. Galesburg was whistled for 13 fouls in the first half, while the Pioneers were called with five fouls.
The Streaks jumped out to an 11-point lead late in the third quarter, but Alleman clawed back in. Galesburg took advantage of SIU-Edwardsville-bound guard A.J. Ledbetter getting into foul trouble. Where the Streaks had the uneven balance in the first half, Alleman started out the second half picking up fouls left and right, putting the Streaks at the line in the bonus with over a minute to play in the third quarter.
Alleman trimmed a double-digit deficit to six points heading into the fourth quarter, and both teams fought back and forth during the fourth frame. It was certainly a game of runs in the fourth quarter.
The Pioneers forced overtime, with the game tied 66-66 at the end of regulation. Galesburg had a perfect shot attempt in the final seconds with Sara Baker driving to the hoop. A lot of contact, but no call at the end.
It was all Alleman in the overtime period, outscoring Galesburg 13-7 in the extra session. The Pioneers scored all 13 points at the free throw line. The hosts were clutch at the line during the fourth and fifth quarters (21-26). Alleman would win the battle, 79-73 in overtime.
Angie Ledford was Ms. Clutch, going (12-13) from the free throw line, and scoring a game-high 24 points. Selam Mulugeta pitched in 15 points, Abbie Ledford added 11 points, and Ashley Schwenneker added 10 points. Galesburg was led by Sara Baker and Jamie Johnson with 16 points each. Alleman turned the ball over 31 times, to Galesburg's 15.
After the game, I flirted with the idea of some Whitey's Ice Cream, but also had an interest in Dr. Gyro's in Rock Island again. With my pants fitting a little tighter this week, I thought against take out, and wait until I got home for a healthier choice.
The Quest File Notes
Game 30
Date: 12/17/09
Result: Alleman fights back over 79-73 overtime win over Galesburg.
Miles: 170
(12/17/09)
Galesburg @ Alleman (Girl's Basketball)
I felt a little more prepared for this game than last night's, but with three different sets of equipment, I still felt a little uneasy heading to Rock Island's Alleman Catholic High School.
Fortunately, I had a scorebook for this one. I feel lost without a scorebook. Picked up four scorebooks at Hibbett's Sports in Macomb before heading to work this morning. They are a little different than the standard green basketball scorebooks, so it is a little getting used to. These are easier to use, and feel less cluttered than the green books.
Heading north of Monmouth on Route 67, there was a terrible odor just north of town. It was so bad I held my breath. A very strong sulphur smell. I called Gary Petersen, our Galesburg boy's broadcaster, to see if he had found our other cell phone in his equipment bag. He did have it, so as to not use my Razor, we arranged to meet in Milan, since he was coming from Muscatine.
Planned to meet at Pinnochio's Gourmet Pizza, but it was so packed, I didn't find a parking spot until Maid Rite. I will have to check that pizza joint out one of these days. Picked up the cell phone, and was Alleman bound.
Alleman A.D. Steve Smithers met me at the press tables at the high school gym. I arrived about midway through the first quarter of the sophomore game, tardy for me. The broadcast setup is certainly unique here. We are set right at center court, but the press tables are about four or five rows up from the floor, and are spread across a tunnel. The tunnel goes to what appears a storage room. I was very nervous, as I sat five rows up with nothing behind me, and the floor right below.
I am glad that Selam Mulugeta is a senior. The 6'2" post is very fun to watch, but I butcher her last name more times in a broadcast than I can count! For some reason, I keep calling her Muh-loo-get-uh, while the actual pronunciation is Moo-loo-get-uh. I am even having trouble spelling out the correct and incorrect versions. Moving on.
Galesburg took a 16-13 lead after one quarter, as Jamie Johnson broke a 13-13 tie with a long ball. The Streaks held a 30-27 lead at halftime. The Pioneers committed an Un-Allemanesque 15 turnovers in the first half, but a majority came in bunches during the second quarter. Galesburg was whistled for 13 fouls in the first half, while the Pioneers were called with five fouls.
The Streaks jumped out to an 11-point lead late in the third quarter, but Alleman clawed back in. Galesburg took advantage of SIU-Edwardsville-bound guard A.J. Ledbetter getting into foul trouble. Where the Streaks had the uneven balance in the first half, Alleman started out the second half picking up fouls left and right, putting the Streaks at the line in the bonus with over a minute to play in the third quarter.
Alleman trimmed a double-digit deficit to six points heading into the fourth quarter, and both teams fought back and forth during the fourth frame. It was certainly a game of runs in the fourth quarter.
The Pioneers forced overtime, with the game tied 66-66 at the end of regulation. Galesburg had a perfect shot attempt in the final seconds with Sara Baker driving to the hoop. A lot of contact, but no call at the end.
It was all Alleman in the overtime period, outscoring Galesburg 13-7 in the extra session. The Pioneers scored all 13 points at the free throw line. The hosts were clutch at the line during the fourth and fifth quarters (21-26). Alleman would win the battle, 79-73 in overtime.
Angie Ledford was Ms. Clutch, going (12-13) from the free throw line, and scoring a game-high 24 points. Selam Mulugeta pitched in 15 points, Abbie Ledford added 11 points, and Ashley Schwenneker added 10 points. Galesburg was led by Sara Baker and Jamie Johnson with 16 points each. Alleman turned the ball over 31 times, to Galesburg's 15.
After the game, I flirted with the idea of some Whitey's Ice Cream, but also had an interest in Dr. Gyro's in Rock Island again. With my pants fitting a little tighter this week, I thought against take out, and wait until I got home for a healthier choice.
The Quest File Notes
Game 30
Date: 12/17/09
Result: Alleman fights back over 79-73 overtime win over Galesburg.
Miles: 170
Game 29: Monmouth-Roseville @ Orion (Girl's Basketball)
Game 29
(12/16/09)
Monmouth-Roseville @ Orion (Girl's Basketball)
Originally a night off, we picked up some holiday tournament play on the radio stations for the United Red Storm, enabling me to add another game this week. Due to our station's Freezing for Food campaign in Monmouth this week, I am a few steps behind, trying to play catch up. Unfortunately, I feel very unprepared for this broadcast.
With our Galesburg boy's basketball broadcaster (Gary Petersen) hanging on to all of that broadcast equipment, the station is not very prepared for three different sets of equipment, but are able to make it by. Late in the afternoon, I was able to pack up my equipment, with John Ring having another set of equipment for the United Red Storm girl's and boy's broadcasts this week.
Ran into a major problem along the way. Our second cell phone for broadcast use was MIA. I believe it to be with the Galesburg equipment bag with cell phone headsets as backup. My phone is a Razor, which has a USB port instead of the small connection I need. There is a piece that can connect the cord to a Razor, so that would have to be picked up.
Running a little late, I had plenty of time to get this piece. Bound for Galesburg's U.S. Cellular, this was the obvious place to go, since they carry the Razor phones (or am I that out of date, now? LOL). They did not, which presented a big conundrum. If nothing else, I would have to hold a cell phone to my ear for the entire broadcast. Been done before, but one of my least favorite things to do!
I ran over to the Sandburg Mall to Radio Shack, and quickly scanned their cell phone accessories wall. After a minute, I found exactly what I was looking for. I hurredly left for Orion, needing gas on the way. Made a gas run in Alpha, while also needing some Gatorade.
Made it to the Orion High School gym in plenty of time, just a couple minutes before the JV tipoff. Some may call me anal about getting to the games early, but in a situation as this night presented, it was key. You see, my unpreparedness was to the extreme, as I had run out of scorebook and Hibbett's in Galesburg was still out of scorebooks, so I had to print sheets out, and they were not filled out. This added an additional set of work to finish before the broadcast went on the air.
Set up went well, although I lost my score sheets, so I spent extra time creating a scorebook page on a blank sheet of paper. Alas, during the second half of the JV game I found them on the floor, so I filled them out again. Meanwhile, I had to charge my phone, as it was on red. My phone would have to be fully charged so I could make a consecutive 2-hour phone call during the broadcast. This is probably the most helter skelter, unprepared broadcast of my career!!!
At halftime of the JV game, I spoke with Titans coach Jim Cole. We joked about his team's record. One local paper has the team at (9-1), while another has them at (9-0). The Titans actual record coming in is (8-1). I also learned coach Cole is updating his stats on MaxPreps, which becomes about the first good turn of events on the night, as I can keep that page up during the broadcast.
Went over and talked with Orion head coach John McBride. His team is off to a (3-4) start, but has a nice win over state-ranked Annawan. He says his team has been pretty inconsistent. The Chargers have a lot of talent, and experience back, so its my belief things will turn around for this team, and they could be scary during the second half.
A brutal offensive start for both teams, as the game stays tied at 2-2 for much of the first quarter. Orion did not score a field goal until the (0:40) mark in the opening frame. After one quarter, it was 6-4 Chargers.
Scoring picked up in the second quarter, with host Orion taking a 19-17 lead into the locker room. They had led by five points in the final seconds, before Rebecca Gillen spotted up for a three on the wing and drained it at the buzzer. She scored 13 of the Titans 17 first half points.
Orion kept their two-point lead after three quarters, leading 31-29, despite a turnover differential in the double-digits throughout most of the second half. In the fourth quarter, the Chargers jumped out to a four point lead, but that fell quickly, and in the final two minutes, the Titans made a big rally, and outscored the hosts 16-6. Monmouth-Roseville played their best basketball in the last three munutes and won 45-37. The Titans forced 27 turnovers, while committing just 13.
Rebecca Gillen scored a game-high 20 points, and was the only Titan in double-figures. Orion was paced by Megan Blumenshein's 14 points, and Kelly Hutton added 10 points. The Titans went (9-10) from the free throw line.
The Quest File Notes
Game 29
Date: 12/16/09
Result: Monmouth-Roseville mounts huge 4th quarter rally for 45-37 win over Orion
Miles: 166
(12/16/09)
Monmouth-Roseville @ Orion (Girl's Basketball)
Originally a night off, we picked up some holiday tournament play on the radio stations for the United Red Storm, enabling me to add another game this week. Due to our station's Freezing for Food campaign in Monmouth this week, I am a few steps behind, trying to play catch up. Unfortunately, I feel very unprepared for this broadcast.
With our Galesburg boy's basketball broadcaster (Gary Petersen) hanging on to all of that broadcast equipment, the station is not very prepared for three different sets of equipment, but are able to make it by. Late in the afternoon, I was able to pack up my equipment, with John Ring having another set of equipment for the United Red Storm girl's and boy's broadcasts this week.
Ran into a major problem along the way. Our second cell phone for broadcast use was MIA. I believe it to be with the Galesburg equipment bag with cell phone headsets as backup. My phone is a Razor, which has a USB port instead of the small connection I need. There is a piece that can connect the cord to a Razor, so that would have to be picked up.
Running a little late, I had plenty of time to get this piece. Bound for Galesburg's U.S. Cellular, this was the obvious place to go, since they carry the Razor phones (or am I that out of date, now? LOL). They did not, which presented a big conundrum. If nothing else, I would have to hold a cell phone to my ear for the entire broadcast. Been done before, but one of my least favorite things to do!
I ran over to the Sandburg Mall to Radio Shack, and quickly scanned their cell phone accessories wall. After a minute, I found exactly what I was looking for. I hurredly left for Orion, needing gas on the way. Made a gas run in Alpha, while also needing some Gatorade.
Made it to the Orion High School gym in plenty of time, just a couple minutes before the JV tipoff. Some may call me anal about getting to the games early, but in a situation as this night presented, it was key. You see, my unpreparedness was to the extreme, as I had run out of scorebook and Hibbett's in Galesburg was still out of scorebooks, so I had to print sheets out, and they were not filled out. This added an additional set of work to finish before the broadcast went on the air.
Set up went well, although I lost my score sheets, so I spent extra time creating a scorebook page on a blank sheet of paper. Alas, during the second half of the JV game I found them on the floor, so I filled them out again. Meanwhile, I had to charge my phone, as it was on red. My phone would have to be fully charged so I could make a consecutive 2-hour phone call during the broadcast. This is probably the most helter skelter, unprepared broadcast of my career!!!
At halftime of the JV game, I spoke with Titans coach Jim Cole. We joked about his team's record. One local paper has the team at (9-1), while another has them at (9-0). The Titans actual record coming in is (8-1). I also learned coach Cole is updating his stats on MaxPreps, which becomes about the first good turn of events on the night, as I can keep that page up during the broadcast.
Went over and talked with Orion head coach John McBride. His team is off to a (3-4) start, but has a nice win over state-ranked Annawan. He says his team has been pretty inconsistent. The Chargers have a lot of talent, and experience back, so its my belief things will turn around for this team, and they could be scary during the second half.
A brutal offensive start for both teams, as the game stays tied at 2-2 for much of the first quarter. Orion did not score a field goal until the (0:40) mark in the opening frame. After one quarter, it was 6-4 Chargers.
Scoring picked up in the second quarter, with host Orion taking a 19-17 lead into the locker room. They had led by five points in the final seconds, before Rebecca Gillen spotted up for a three on the wing and drained it at the buzzer. She scored 13 of the Titans 17 first half points.
Orion kept their two-point lead after three quarters, leading 31-29, despite a turnover differential in the double-digits throughout most of the second half. In the fourth quarter, the Chargers jumped out to a four point lead, but that fell quickly, and in the final two minutes, the Titans made a big rally, and outscored the hosts 16-6. Monmouth-Roseville played their best basketball in the last three munutes and won 45-37. The Titans forced 27 turnovers, while committing just 13.
Rebecca Gillen scored a game-high 20 points, and was the only Titan in double-figures. Orion was paced by Megan Blumenshein's 14 points, and Kelly Hutton added 10 points. The Titans went (9-10) from the free throw line.
The Quest File Notes
Game 29
Date: 12/16/09
Result: Monmouth-Roseville mounts huge 4th quarter rally for 45-37 win over Orion
Miles: 166
Monday, December 14, 2009
Game 28: Knoxville vs. West Prairie (Girl's Basketball)
Game 28
(12/14/09)
Knoxville vs. West Prairie (Girl's Basketball)
Knoxville-Abingdon Tournament (@ Knoxville)
On paper, this should be an easy win for the home team, the state-ranked Knoxville Blue Bullets (Class 1A #5). Knoxville comes in with just one loss, a tough four-point heartbreaker to a very good South Fulton team. Meanwhile, West Prairie comes in with just a single win.
The visiting Cyclones hang tough early, trailing just 13-9 after one quarter. Abby Ball of the Blue Bullets knocks down a pair of three-pointers to lift Knoxville in the first frame. She would add another trey in the second quarter. The Blue Bullets would further their lead into double digits through the second quarter, taking a 25-13 lead into the break.
West Prairie struggled mightily in the first half, making bad passes, and giving up a lot of turnovers. The second half was a much different story. The Cyclones came out hungry, and started chipping into that 12-point deficit. After a few minutes, it was down to six points, and Knoxville continued to struggle, at both getting shots to fall, and keeping posession against a feisty West Prairie defense.
In the third quarter, the defense of Megan Wallen was near perfect, forcing several Knoxville turnovers, and giving the Blue Bullets a fit when on offense. Taylor Harper also was big for the Cyclone defense in the third quarter. West Prairie would outscore the hosts 14-2 in the period after halftime, tying the game at 27-27 heading into the fourth quarter.
Starting the fourth quarter, the Cyclones reverted back to their play of the first half, making poor decisions and turning the ball over. Knoxville would jump out to a two point lead, and extend on that early in the fourth. West Prairie tried to fight back, but in the end fell short. Abby Ball, who had started the game just (1-5) from the free throw line was clutch, sinking her final four free throws in the final quarter.
Knoxville would hang on to beat West Prairie, 44-37. The Cyclones have really impressed me at times with their play in the two games I have seen. West Prairie has had great opportunities to beat a pair of one-loss teams in Knoxville (11-1), and last week, Monmouth-Roseville (currently 9-1).
Abby Ball led all scorers with 19 points, while Hannah Weedman, the Evansville-signee scored 13 points. The 6'3" Senior also had several blocks and rebounds for the Blue Bullets. Chelsea Derry led West Prairie with 14 points.
The Quest File Notes
Game 28
Date: 12/14/09
Result: Knoxville hangs on for 44-37 win over West Prairie
Miles: Already there
(12/14/09)
Knoxville vs. West Prairie (Girl's Basketball)
Knoxville-Abingdon Tournament (@ Knoxville)
On paper, this should be an easy win for the home team, the state-ranked Knoxville Blue Bullets (Class 1A #5). Knoxville comes in with just one loss, a tough four-point heartbreaker to a very good South Fulton team. Meanwhile, West Prairie comes in with just a single win.
The visiting Cyclones hang tough early, trailing just 13-9 after one quarter. Abby Ball of the Blue Bullets knocks down a pair of three-pointers to lift Knoxville in the first frame. She would add another trey in the second quarter. The Blue Bullets would further their lead into double digits through the second quarter, taking a 25-13 lead into the break.
West Prairie struggled mightily in the first half, making bad passes, and giving up a lot of turnovers. The second half was a much different story. The Cyclones came out hungry, and started chipping into that 12-point deficit. After a few minutes, it was down to six points, and Knoxville continued to struggle, at both getting shots to fall, and keeping posession against a feisty West Prairie defense.
In the third quarter, the defense of Megan Wallen was near perfect, forcing several Knoxville turnovers, and giving the Blue Bullets a fit when on offense. Taylor Harper also was big for the Cyclone defense in the third quarter. West Prairie would outscore the hosts 14-2 in the period after halftime, tying the game at 27-27 heading into the fourth quarter.
Starting the fourth quarter, the Cyclones reverted back to their play of the first half, making poor decisions and turning the ball over. Knoxville would jump out to a two point lead, and extend on that early in the fourth. West Prairie tried to fight back, but in the end fell short. Abby Ball, who had started the game just (1-5) from the free throw line was clutch, sinking her final four free throws in the final quarter.
Knoxville would hang on to beat West Prairie, 44-37. The Cyclones have really impressed me at times with their play in the two games I have seen. West Prairie has had great opportunities to beat a pair of one-loss teams in Knoxville (11-1), and last week, Monmouth-Roseville (currently 9-1).
Abby Ball led all scorers with 19 points, while Hannah Weedman, the Evansville-signee scored 13 points. The 6'3" Senior also had several blocks and rebounds for the Blue Bullets. Chelsea Derry led West Prairie with 14 points.
The Quest File Notes
Game 28
Date: 12/14/09
Result: Knoxville hangs on for 44-37 win over West Prairie
Miles: Already there
Game 27: Brimfield vs. Wethersfield (Girl's Basketball)
Game 27
(12/14/09)
Brimfield vs. Wethersfield
Knoxville-Abingdon Tournament (@ Knoxville)
A doubleheader of girl's basketball on IHSSN.net. First up, the Class 1A (#2) Brimfield Lady Indians (9-1) against the Wethersfield Flying Geese (3-7). After an afternoon shivvering in the elements for WMOI's "Freezing for Food" campaign, a warm ride to Knoxville felt nice.
I arrived at Jensen Gymnasium shortly after the Brimfield bus dropped off the Lady Indians basketball team at the front door. Knoxville Athletic Director Chad Bahnks had a spot reserved in the near corner of the gym for the night's broadcasts.
Had a conversation with Brimfield head coach Jim Blane, catching up about his team through their first ten games. He brings back the entire roster from last year's squad that went (34-3) and finished 4th in Class 1A. The team boasts (6'3" Sr. Center) Paige Spietz who has signed to play at Missouri and Kelsey Herridge, who will play at Army. Coach Blane also talked about the possibility of a new high school being built in Brimfield, if the referendum passes. The Lady Indians currently play their games in the Brimfield Junior High, as there is no high school gym.
In the meantime, the Wethersfield team arrived, so I spoke with head coach Laurie Steger for a few minutes. Her team is very young with just two seniors on the roster. Their top player is Laurie's daughter, Shelby, averaging 15 points/game.
At 6:00, the teams tip off. Wethersfield starts one senior (Ali Stern), one junior (Shelby Steger), two sophomores (Kayla Bennett & Becca Mahnesmith), and a freshman (Margaret Thomson), while Brimfield boasts an all-senior starting lineup (Paige Spietz, Kelsey Herridge, Brycie Courter, Jacki McKown, and Nicole Clevenger).
Brimfield jumps all over the Geese, leading 26-9 after one quarter. Brimfield's Brycie Courter drops a pair of three's, and Paige Spietz gets a few nice looks down low for six points in the opening frame. Brimfield's pressure defense is forcing Wethersfield into many mistakes.
At halftime, the Lady Indians lead 44-18 behind a balanced scoring attack. Brimfield continutes to give Wethersfield fits in the second half, outscoring the Geese 16-13 in the third quarter, and both teams slow things down in the final frame.
Brimfield comes out victorious with a running clock throughout most of the fourth quarter, winning 67-35. Kelsey Herridge leads all scorers with 15 points, while Paige Spietz and Brycie Courter add 13 points a piece. Wethersfield gets 10 points from freshman Margaret Thomson, and eight points from Shelby Steger.
Jim Blane came and talked with us following the win. We discussed the many weapons on offense, utilizing a deeper bench this year, and the tough conference schedule this season in the Prairieland.
The Quest File Notes
Game 27
Date: 12/14/09
Result: Brimfield is too much for Wethersfield, winning 67-35
Miles: 120
(12/14/09)
Brimfield vs. Wethersfield
Knoxville-Abingdon Tournament (@ Knoxville)
A doubleheader of girl's basketball on IHSSN.net. First up, the Class 1A (#2) Brimfield Lady Indians (9-1) against the Wethersfield Flying Geese (3-7). After an afternoon shivvering in the elements for WMOI's "Freezing for Food" campaign, a warm ride to Knoxville felt nice.
I arrived at Jensen Gymnasium shortly after the Brimfield bus dropped off the Lady Indians basketball team at the front door. Knoxville Athletic Director Chad Bahnks had a spot reserved in the near corner of the gym for the night's broadcasts.
Had a conversation with Brimfield head coach Jim Blane, catching up about his team through their first ten games. He brings back the entire roster from last year's squad that went (34-3) and finished 4th in Class 1A. The team boasts (6'3" Sr. Center) Paige Spietz who has signed to play at Missouri and Kelsey Herridge, who will play at Army. Coach Blane also talked about the possibility of a new high school being built in Brimfield, if the referendum passes. The Lady Indians currently play their games in the Brimfield Junior High, as there is no high school gym.
In the meantime, the Wethersfield team arrived, so I spoke with head coach Laurie Steger for a few minutes. Her team is very young with just two seniors on the roster. Their top player is Laurie's daughter, Shelby, averaging 15 points/game.
At 6:00, the teams tip off. Wethersfield starts one senior (Ali Stern), one junior (Shelby Steger), two sophomores (Kayla Bennett & Becca Mahnesmith), and a freshman (Margaret Thomson), while Brimfield boasts an all-senior starting lineup (Paige Spietz, Kelsey Herridge, Brycie Courter, Jacki McKown, and Nicole Clevenger).
Brimfield jumps all over the Geese, leading 26-9 after one quarter. Brimfield's Brycie Courter drops a pair of three's, and Paige Spietz gets a few nice looks down low for six points in the opening frame. Brimfield's pressure defense is forcing Wethersfield into many mistakes.
At halftime, the Lady Indians lead 44-18 behind a balanced scoring attack. Brimfield continutes to give Wethersfield fits in the second half, outscoring the Geese 16-13 in the third quarter, and both teams slow things down in the final frame.
Brimfield comes out victorious with a running clock throughout most of the fourth quarter, winning 67-35. Kelsey Herridge leads all scorers with 15 points, while Paige Spietz and Brycie Courter add 13 points a piece. Wethersfield gets 10 points from freshman Margaret Thomson, and eight points from Shelby Steger.
Jim Blane came and talked with us following the win. We discussed the many weapons on offense, utilizing a deeper bench this year, and the tough conference schedule this season in the Prairieland.
The Quest File Notes
Game 27
Date: 12/14/09
Result: Brimfield is too much for Wethersfield, winning 67-35
Miles: 120
Saturday, December 12, 2009
Game 26: Peoria Central @ Galesburg (Girl's Basketball)
Game 26
(12/12/09)
Peoria Central @ Galesburg (Girl's Basketball)
Mid-Winter Classic
After finishing up broadcast #25, there was a break between broadcasts. After wrapping up the previous broadcast, I talked with Eric Gibson and Tom Meredith, the Galesburg girl's basketball broadcast team for WGIL.
Following that conversation, I set out for a quick lunch before returning for 1:30 sophomore tipoff. Instead of eating something different, I just opted for the good old fast food stand-by and Steak 'n Shake. I held off on the shake, though.
I took my lunch to our WAIK studios downtown, a very chilly studios. After a quick bite, I set out for Galesburg High School at about 1:15 to catch the sophomore game. Peoria Central jumped out and beat Galesburg in this game, 64-55.
Central came into the varsity game with a 6-2 record, winning the Mt. Zion Thanksgiving Tournament. Their only losses came to Woodruff to open the season, and to Richwoods. Their head coach is the former Central standout, Meechie Edwards. His son, Dyricus Simms-Edwards plays at Bradley and had a phenomenal high school career at Washington.
Both teams started out scoring in bunches, with Central taking a 27-23 lead into the second quarter. During the second quarter, the Streaks outscored the Lions 20-12 to lead 43-39 at halftime. Coming in, Galesburg was shooting just 53% from the free throw line, but took advantage of Lions fouls, going (15-21) from the line.
Galesburg started out hot in the third quarter, extending their lead to eight points at (47-39). Then, the Lions roared back and took a six-point lead midway through the third quarter. ShaVonn Watkins (5'5" So.) carried a bulk of that load, scoring 13 third quarter points, on her way to a game-high 29 points. The outside shots started to fall late in the third frame, and the Streaks cut that deficit to three points (69-66) heading into the last quarter.
Just one three-pointer was made in the fourth quarter for Galesburg, and went (12-38) from outside the three-point line. Central extended their lead throughout the final eight minutes and finished off Galesburg for a 90-81 win. Five Lions reached double figures, led by Watkins' 29, followed by Ashley Hightower (So.) with 16 points, Toni Johnson with 13 points, Rebecca Clayton-Mills with 12 points, and Denisha Womack (Fr.) with 11 points. Central started one freshman, two sophomores, and two juniors, and don't have a senior on the team. Galesburg was led by Jessica Howard's 16 points, while Shelby Pacheco added 11 points and Sara Baker pitched in 10 points.
Both teams turned the ball over 31 times, with each of the teams committing quite a few unforced errors. Central received two technical fouls in the game, one on coach Edwards, the other on Toni Johnson. The Streaks went (0-4) on those technical free throws, and did not score on either posession.
The Quest File Notes
Game 26
Date: 12/12/09
Result: Central outguns Galesburg 90-81
Miles: 3 (the lunch run)
(12/12/09)
Peoria Central @ Galesburg (Girl's Basketball)
Mid-Winter Classic
After finishing up broadcast #25, there was a break between broadcasts. After wrapping up the previous broadcast, I talked with Eric Gibson and Tom Meredith, the Galesburg girl's basketball broadcast team for WGIL.
Following that conversation, I set out for a quick lunch before returning for 1:30 sophomore tipoff. Instead of eating something different, I just opted for the good old fast food stand-by and Steak 'n Shake. I held off on the shake, though.
I took my lunch to our WAIK studios downtown, a very chilly studios. After a quick bite, I set out for Galesburg High School at about 1:15 to catch the sophomore game. Peoria Central jumped out and beat Galesburg in this game, 64-55.
Central came into the varsity game with a 6-2 record, winning the Mt. Zion Thanksgiving Tournament. Their only losses came to Woodruff to open the season, and to Richwoods. Their head coach is the former Central standout, Meechie Edwards. His son, Dyricus Simms-Edwards plays at Bradley and had a phenomenal high school career at Washington.
Both teams started out scoring in bunches, with Central taking a 27-23 lead into the second quarter. During the second quarter, the Streaks outscored the Lions 20-12 to lead 43-39 at halftime. Coming in, Galesburg was shooting just 53% from the free throw line, but took advantage of Lions fouls, going (15-21) from the line.
Galesburg started out hot in the third quarter, extending their lead to eight points at (47-39). Then, the Lions roared back and took a six-point lead midway through the third quarter. ShaVonn Watkins (5'5" So.) carried a bulk of that load, scoring 13 third quarter points, on her way to a game-high 29 points. The outside shots started to fall late in the third frame, and the Streaks cut that deficit to three points (69-66) heading into the last quarter.
Just one three-pointer was made in the fourth quarter for Galesburg, and went (12-38) from outside the three-point line. Central extended their lead throughout the final eight minutes and finished off Galesburg for a 90-81 win. Five Lions reached double figures, led by Watkins' 29, followed by Ashley Hightower (So.) with 16 points, Toni Johnson with 13 points, Rebecca Clayton-Mills with 12 points, and Denisha Womack (Fr.) with 11 points. Central started one freshman, two sophomores, and two juniors, and don't have a senior on the team. Galesburg was led by Jessica Howard's 16 points, while Shelby Pacheco added 11 points and Sara Baker pitched in 10 points.
Both teams turned the ball over 31 times, with each of the teams committing quite a few unforced errors. Central received two technical fouls in the game, one on coach Edwards, the other on Toni Johnson. The Streaks went (0-4) on those technical free throws, and did not score on either posession.
The Quest File Notes
Game 26
Date: 12/12/09
Result: Central outguns Galesburg 90-81
Miles: 3 (the lunch run)
Game 25: Morton @ Galesburg (Girl's Basketball)
Game 25
(12/12/09)
Morton @ Galesburg (Girl's Basketball)
A quick turnaround from bedtime to wake up, getting to the station early for the radio auction. Spent about 90 minutes working the auction, before packing up and heading to Galesburg to set up and take in the sophomore matchup between Morton and Galesburg, which was won by the host Streaks, 65-40.
To start the game, Galesburg nailed six three-pointers in the first quarter (6-18). Shelby Pacheco was cleaning up down low, converting on four field goals beneath the basket, and the Streaks jumped out to a 29-20 first quarter lead.
The Streaks added five more three-pointers in the second quarter, going (11-40) by halftime from outside. Galesburg only turned the ball over eight times in the first half, while forcing 17.
Starting the second half, Galesburg picked up where they left off, adding five more three-pointers and led 67-54 heading into the fourth quarter. Galesburg would finish (18-71) from the three-point line, which sets a new IHSA record for attempts in a game (previous mark was 61 set by Herscher in 2007-08). On the season, Galesburg has attempted 491 three-pointers (in only 10 games). The state record is 963 in a season. Galesburg has made 120 three-pointers, with the all-time season record at 260.
Leading the way for the Streaks was Shelby Pacheco, scoring a game-high 21 points, all points in the paint, and at the free throw line. From the outside, Mickey Rodriguez poured in 20 points, dropping in six three-pointers. Jessica Howard also reached double figures with 15 points. Morton was led by freshman Sarah Livingston with 16 points. She is the younger sister to former NBA player Shaun Livingston.
Galesburg would defeat Morton 83-67, to improve to (6-4) on the season. A break in action would take place over the noon hour, and Galesburg boy's coach Mike Reynolds would secure the gym for an hour of practice. His team fell at Rock Island by three points last night on the road.
The Quest File Notes
Game 25
Date: 12/12/09
Result: Galesburg sets records in 83-67 win over Morton
Miles: 100
(12/12/09)
Morton @ Galesburg (Girl's Basketball)
A quick turnaround from bedtime to wake up, getting to the station early for the radio auction. Spent about 90 minutes working the auction, before packing up and heading to Galesburg to set up and take in the sophomore matchup between Morton and Galesburg, which was won by the host Streaks, 65-40.
To start the game, Galesburg nailed six three-pointers in the first quarter (6-18). Shelby Pacheco was cleaning up down low, converting on four field goals beneath the basket, and the Streaks jumped out to a 29-20 first quarter lead.
The Streaks added five more three-pointers in the second quarter, going (11-40) by halftime from outside. Galesburg only turned the ball over eight times in the first half, while forcing 17.
Starting the second half, Galesburg picked up where they left off, adding five more three-pointers and led 67-54 heading into the fourth quarter. Galesburg would finish (18-71) from the three-point line, which sets a new IHSA record for attempts in a game (previous mark was 61 set by Herscher in 2007-08). On the season, Galesburg has attempted 491 three-pointers (in only 10 games). The state record is 963 in a season. Galesburg has made 120 three-pointers, with the all-time season record at 260.
Leading the way for the Streaks was Shelby Pacheco, scoring a game-high 21 points, all points in the paint, and at the free throw line. From the outside, Mickey Rodriguez poured in 20 points, dropping in six three-pointers. Jessica Howard also reached double figures with 15 points. Morton was led by freshman Sarah Livingston with 16 points. She is the younger sister to former NBA player Shaun Livingston.
Galesburg would defeat Morton 83-67, to improve to (6-4) on the season. A break in action would take place over the noon hour, and Galesburg boy's coach Mike Reynolds would secure the gym for an hour of practice. His team fell at Rock Island by three points last night on the road.
The Quest File Notes
Game 25
Date: 12/12/09
Result: Galesburg sets records in 83-67 win over Morton
Miles: 100
Friday, December 11, 2009
Game 24: Monmouth-Roseville @ Macomb (Boy's Basketball)
Game 24
(12/11/09)
Monmouth-Roseville @ Macomb (Boy's Basketball)
A homecoming of sorts for this Olympic Conference showdown. Still living in Macomb, most of time is spent in Monmouth and Galesburg, or actually the most in my vehicle.
After covering the Macomb Bombers for about six years, I became familiar with the basketball program and coach Danny Watson. His first season at MHS was my first year working for the radio stations in Macomb.
Both the Titans and Bombers came into this matchup with some question marks. Monmouth-Roseville (5-1), had really only been tested in a league meeting with Orion (their only loss), while Macomb plays a very tough early season schedule and comes in (2-3).
Fortunately most everything was prepared for the broadcast before hand, since I spent most of the time socializing before the pregame show. Talked with coach Watson and head sophomore coach Jay Ankenbrand when I arrived at the gym around 5:30. The broadcast setup at the Hangar is up in the corner, necessitating lots of phone line to string behind the back of the first set of bleachers. I like to get there extra early to plant the line, so I don't have to move people in their spots.
Dennis and Judy Gordy, parents of Macomb senior Matt Gordy sit near the phone jack, so it's always good to catch up with them. Spoke briefly with Tim and Dina Chick as they arrived to root on their son, Tim Chick, from the Titans. As I strung the phone line, ran into Steve Bainter and we chatted about the upcoming Macomb-Western Holiday Tournament. The seeds and pairings for the Christmas Tournament will be released this Sunday.
As I stationed myself in my location, got a visit from Eric Johnson, head men's soccer coach at Western Illinois University, and the father of a long line of Johnson's that have excelled at Macomb High. His youngest son, MacLean, a sophomore was very impressive in varsity action. He will be very good for the Bombers, and handles the ball extremely well and makes pinpoint passes.
It would be a three-man crew for the broadcast on Sunny 97.7 WMOI. As for most Titans games, Jeff Thompson on color commentary, and Adam Frankhauser stepped in to provide some analysis and took some excellent stats. For a stat geek as myself, I wish I could have that type of stat keeping for every broadcast.
The game started out much in the hosts favor, forcing three Monmouth-Roseville turnovers on their first three posessions. The Bombers would turn each of these turnovers into baskets, jumping out to a 6-0 lead. The Titans would fight right back, behind a three from Alex Temple, a three-point play by Alex Bresnahan, and baskets from Markus Hunter and Garren Randolph.
After one quarter, the Bombers held just a one-point lead, unable to further capitalize on the Titans mistakes. By halftime, Monmouth-Roseville had 11 turnovers to Macomb's three, yet it was a 19-17 lead for the Bombers at the half.
Macomb entered the game shooting just 57% from the free throw line as a team, while Monmouth-Roseville came in at 55%. The Bombers improved, the Titans didn't. Macomb made nine of their first ten free shots, and finished (13-19) at the line, while the visitors finished an anemic 36% (5-14).
The game got a little chippy in the second half, a physical game developed, which is expected when these two rivals meet. The wheels fell off for Monmouth-Roseville midway through the fourth quarter, and the Bombers jumped out to a double-digit lead, and hung on for a 48-34 victory.
Alex Bresnahan scored a game-high 16 points for the Titans, but little scoring after that. Alex Heille, the 6'5" senior transfer student, led Macomb with 11 points, while Robert McKee added 10 points, and Tyler Thorman pitched in 9 points.
To sum up the game in two words, I would use...not pretty.
The Quest File Notes
Game 24
Date: 12/11/09
Result: Macomb survives for 48-34 win over Monmouth-Roseville
Miles: 3
(12/11/09)
Monmouth-Roseville @ Macomb (Boy's Basketball)
A homecoming of sorts for this Olympic Conference showdown. Still living in Macomb, most of time is spent in Monmouth and Galesburg, or actually the most in my vehicle.
After covering the Macomb Bombers for about six years, I became familiar with the basketball program and coach Danny Watson. His first season at MHS was my first year working for the radio stations in Macomb.
Both the Titans and Bombers came into this matchup with some question marks. Monmouth-Roseville (5-1), had really only been tested in a league meeting with Orion (their only loss), while Macomb plays a very tough early season schedule and comes in (2-3).
Fortunately most everything was prepared for the broadcast before hand, since I spent most of the time socializing before the pregame show. Talked with coach Watson and head sophomore coach Jay Ankenbrand when I arrived at the gym around 5:30. The broadcast setup at the Hangar is up in the corner, necessitating lots of phone line to string behind the back of the first set of bleachers. I like to get there extra early to plant the line, so I don't have to move people in their spots.
Dennis and Judy Gordy, parents of Macomb senior Matt Gordy sit near the phone jack, so it's always good to catch up with them. Spoke briefly with Tim and Dina Chick as they arrived to root on their son, Tim Chick, from the Titans. As I strung the phone line, ran into Steve Bainter and we chatted about the upcoming Macomb-Western Holiday Tournament. The seeds and pairings for the Christmas Tournament will be released this Sunday.
As I stationed myself in my location, got a visit from Eric Johnson, head men's soccer coach at Western Illinois University, and the father of a long line of Johnson's that have excelled at Macomb High. His youngest son, MacLean, a sophomore was very impressive in varsity action. He will be very good for the Bombers, and handles the ball extremely well and makes pinpoint passes.
It would be a three-man crew for the broadcast on Sunny 97.7 WMOI. As for most Titans games, Jeff Thompson on color commentary, and Adam Frankhauser stepped in to provide some analysis and took some excellent stats. For a stat geek as myself, I wish I could have that type of stat keeping for every broadcast.
The game started out much in the hosts favor, forcing three Monmouth-Roseville turnovers on their first three posessions. The Bombers would turn each of these turnovers into baskets, jumping out to a 6-0 lead. The Titans would fight right back, behind a three from Alex Temple, a three-point play by Alex Bresnahan, and baskets from Markus Hunter and Garren Randolph.
After one quarter, the Bombers held just a one-point lead, unable to further capitalize on the Titans mistakes. By halftime, Monmouth-Roseville had 11 turnovers to Macomb's three, yet it was a 19-17 lead for the Bombers at the half.
Macomb entered the game shooting just 57% from the free throw line as a team, while Monmouth-Roseville came in at 55%. The Bombers improved, the Titans didn't. Macomb made nine of their first ten free shots, and finished (13-19) at the line, while the visitors finished an anemic 36% (5-14).
The game got a little chippy in the second half, a physical game developed, which is expected when these two rivals meet. The wheels fell off for Monmouth-Roseville midway through the fourth quarter, and the Bombers jumped out to a double-digit lead, and hung on for a 48-34 victory.
Alex Bresnahan scored a game-high 16 points for the Titans, but little scoring after that. Alex Heille, the 6'5" senior transfer student, led Macomb with 11 points, while Robert McKee added 10 points, and Tyler Thorman pitched in 9 points.
To sum up the game in two words, I would use...not pretty.
The Quest File Notes
Game 24
Date: 12/11/09
Result: Macomb survives for 48-34 win over Monmouth-Roseville
Miles: 3
Game 23: United Township @ Galesburg (Girl's Basketball)
Game 23
(12/10/09)
United Township @ Galesburg (Girl's Basketball)
After a winter storm semi-blasted the area, games were back in action on this Thursday night. Most games were cancelled on Tuesday for the expectation of up to a foot of snow, but by 11:00 p.m. the area had seen only rain. Conditions did worsen overnight and into Wednesday.
Rarely am I able to make it through an entire day wearing a white shirt without getting a stain on it. Wearing a white shirt, and the office boasting chips and dip, disaster was inevitable, and it was. A nice splat of cheese dip on the front of my shirt. With no other shirts, I decided to add a new shirt to the wardrobe before heading to Galesburg High School's Thiel Gymnasium.
I hit the Sandburg Mall in Galesburg and found a store selling local high school apparell. Without any Galesburg Silver Streaks clothing in my arsenal I picked up a Streaks polo. I preceded downtown to the WAIK studios to pick up the Marti for the broadcast and to change shirts.
Hit the gym a few minutes before the tipoff of the JV game between visiting United Township and Galesburg. During the preliminary game, the Streaks fell to the visiting Panthers 64-60.
Both teams came out firing in the varsity matchup, with UTHS holding a 27-22 lead after one quarter. The Streaks nailed four three-pointers in the first eight minutes, appearing to be well on their way of making the magical 13 for a triple cheeseburger for those in attendance wearing the McDonalds "3Diculous" shirts.
Galesburg outscored UTHS 15-13 in the second quarter to trail by three points at the break. The Panthers scored another 25 points in the third quarter and led by 7 heading into the final frame. The Streaks made some runs in the fourth quarter, but could not capitalize on many UTHS turnovers down the stretch, falling 80-73. UTHS turned the ball over 30 times, while Galesburg committed 25 turnovers. The Streaks also struggled at the free throw line (2-9). Three of those misses came on one-and-bonus shots.
Leading the way for UTHS was Shanice Morrow, who exploded for 29 points, demolishing her season average (5.9 ppg). Shelby Pacheco had 17 points to lead all Galesburg scorers. Sara Baker added 15 points. Galesburg finished (9-38) from the three-point line. Galesburg has attempted 417 three-pointers in nine games, which puts them at 46th all-time in that category in the IHSA record books, with many games left to play.
The Quest File Notes
Game 23
Date: 12/10/09
Result: UTHS runs past Galesburg 80-73
Location: Galesburg
Miles: 100
(12/10/09)
United Township @ Galesburg (Girl's Basketball)
After a winter storm semi-blasted the area, games were back in action on this Thursday night. Most games were cancelled on Tuesday for the expectation of up to a foot of snow, but by 11:00 p.m. the area had seen only rain. Conditions did worsen overnight and into Wednesday.
Rarely am I able to make it through an entire day wearing a white shirt without getting a stain on it. Wearing a white shirt, and the office boasting chips and dip, disaster was inevitable, and it was. A nice splat of cheese dip on the front of my shirt. With no other shirts, I decided to add a new shirt to the wardrobe before heading to Galesburg High School's Thiel Gymnasium.
I hit the Sandburg Mall in Galesburg and found a store selling local high school apparell. Without any Galesburg Silver Streaks clothing in my arsenal I picked up a Streaks polo. I preceded downtown to the WAIK studios to pick up the Marti for the broadcast and to change shirts.
Hit the gym a few minutes before the tipoff of the JV game between visiting United Township and Galesburg. During the preliminary game, the Streaks fell to the visiting Panthers 64-60.
Both teams came out firing in the varsity matchup, with UTHS holding a 27-22 lead after one quarter. The Streaks nailed four three-pointers in the first eight minutes, appearing to be well on their way of making the magical 13 for a triple cheeseburger for those in attendance wearing the McDonalds "3Diculous" shirts.
Galesburg outscored UTHS 15-13 in the second quarter to trail by three points at the break. The Panthers scored another 25 points in the third quarter and led by 7 heading into the final frame. The Streaks made some runs in the fourth quarter, but could not capitalize on many UTHS turnovers down the stretch, falling 80-73. UTHS turned the ball over 30 times, while Galesburg committed 25 turnovers. The Streaks also struggled at the free throw line (2-9). Three of those misses came on one-and-bonus shots.
Leading the way for UTHS was Shanice Morrow, who exploded for 29 points, demolishing her season average (5.9 ppg). Shelby Pacheco had 17 points to lead all Galesburg scorers. Sara Baker added 15 points. Galesburg finished (9-38) from the three-point line. Galesburg has attempted 417 three-pointers in nine games, which puts them at 46th all-time in that category in the IHSA record books, with many games left to play.
The Quest File Notes
Game 23
Date: 12/10/09
Result: UTHS runs past Galesburg 80-73
Location: Galesburg
Miles: 100
Monday, December 7, 2009
Game 22: Monmouth-Roseville @ West Prairie (Girl's Basketball)
Game 22
(12/7/09)
Monmouth-Roseville @ West Prairie
A Monday night non-conference matchup in girl's basketball. The Titans of Monmouth-Roseville bring a (6-1) record to Sciota to face the West Prairie Cyclones (1-4).
With the location just up the road from home, I took on this assignment for Titan girl's basketball. West Prairie is a tough broadcast spot, one of the stage seating spots for broadcasters.
My arrival came a few minutes before tipoff of the fresh/soph game. My buddy Shawn Dobey would be one of the officials for tonights game, gave him a good jab walking by. I made my nest up on the stage at the north end of the gymnasium.
One of the items on the stage near my setup was an old exercise bike, circa 1975ish. It's been a while since I've seen an antique exercise bike such as this one. I wanted to take it for a spin, but decided against it.
Cyclones coach Brandon Mize came up and we did our pregame interview. I slipped up and introduced him as first year head coach, getting girl's basketball confused with his taking over the football job this year. This is his second season as head coach of the girl's basketball team. Take 2 on that intro on the interview.
The fresh/soph game got ugly fast, as the visiting Titans jumped out to a 21-7 lead after the first quarter, and would cruise to a win. At halftime, I spoke with Titans head coach Jim Cole. We talked about the one blemish on the team's record, a tough loss to the Ridgewood Spartans, in the Spartans scored 31 of their 49 points from the free throw line in a one-point win.
The Titans fresh/soph came out with a 51-19 win in the preliminary game. The game went entirely way too fast, my engineer wasn't even at the station, so I called him in saying it running really early. Fortunately, I was able to squeeze both interviews in during the pregame show, but didn't have much time for any other pregame notes.
Monmouth-Roseville jumped out to a 12-5 lead at the end of one. The Titans rotated in many different girls, utilizing a long bench. Mon-Rose has 17 varsity players, while West Prairie had just eight.
Disaster struck in the second quarter for the visitors. The hosts outscored the Titans 10-0 in the first four minutes of the second quarter, taking a three-point lead, before Rebecca Gillen hit a free throw to break the schnide. Mon-Rose went 0-6 from the free throw line before that make.
The Titans would score 13 points in the second quarter, all in the final 3:54 of the quarter. Mon-Rose would take back the lead at halftime, 25-19. The Titans led by just six points despite forcing 20 turnovers, and not taking full advantage of 14 Cyclone fouls. Mon-Rose only commited seven turnovers in the first half, but struggled at the free throw line in the first two quarters (8/19).
West Prairie opened up the second half with a quick Megan Wallen basket to cut it back to a four-point game, but Mon-Rose would get hot and go on a run to take an eventual 13-point lead, boosted by an Amanda Schreck three-pointer, and three Claire McGuire field goals. The Titans took a 45-32 lead into the fourth quarter.
The Cyclones fought hard, and were able to get the lead down to eight midway through the final frame. The struggles at the free throw line for the Titans were one of the reasons that the Cyclones were able to chip back into the game. In the fourth quarter, Mon-Rose went (2/9) from the charity stripe, and finished the game (12/36) from the line.
The visitors would prevail 63-50 to improve to (7-1) on the season. Rebecca Gillen scored a game-high 22 points, and Claire McGuire added 18 points. West Prairie was led by Chelsea Derry's 16 points, while Megan Bowman added 11 points. The Cyclones went (17/23) from the line, but turned the ball over 33 times. Mon-Rose finished with 13 turnovers.
The Quest File Notes
Game 22
Date: 12/7/09
Result: Monmouth-Roseville squeaks out a 63-50 win at West Prairie
Location: Sciota
Miles: 88
(12/7/09)
Monmouth-Roseville @ West Prairie
A Monday night non-conference matchup in girl's basketball. The Titans of Monmouth-Roseville bring a (6-1) record to Sciota to face the West Prairie Cyclones (1-4).
With the location just up the road from home, I took on this assignment for Titan girl's basketball. West Prairie is a tough broadcast spot, one of the stage seating spots for broadcasters.
My arrival came a few minutes before tipoff of the fresh/soph game. My buddy Shawn Dobey would be one of the officials for tonights game, gave him a good jab walking by. I made my nest up on the stage at the north end of the gymnasium.
One of the items on the stage near my setup was an old exercise bike, circa 1975ish. It's been a while since I've seen an antique exercise bike such as this one. I wanted to take it for a spin, but decided against it.
Cyclones coach Brandon Mize came up and we did our pregame interview. I slipped up and introduced him as first year head coach, getting girl's basketball confused with his taking over the football job this year. This is his second season as head coach of the girl's basketball team. Take 2 on that intro on the interview.
The fresh/soph game got ugly fast, as the visiting Titans jumped out to a 21-7 lead after the first quarter, and would cruise to a win. At halftime, I spoke with Titans head coach Jim Cole. We talked about the one blemish on the team's record, a tough loss to the Ridgewood Spartans, in the Spartans scored 31 of their 49 points from the free throw line in a one-point win.
The Titans fresh/soph came out with a 51-19 win in the preliminary game. The game went entirely way too fast, my engineer wasn't even at the station, so I called him in saying it running really early. Fortunately, I was able to squeeze both interviews in during the pregame show, but didn't have much time for any other pregame notes.
Monmouth-Roseville jumped out to a 12-5 lead at the end of one. The Titans rotated in many different girls, utilizing a long bench. Mon-Rose has 17 varsity players, while West Prairie had just eight.
Disaster struck in the second quarter for the visitors. The hosts outscored the Titans 10-0 in the first four minutes of the second quarter, taking a three-point lead, before Rebecca Gillen hit a free throw to break the schnide. Mon-Rose went 0-6 from the free throw line before that make.
The Titans would score 13 points in the second quarter, all in the final 3:54 of the quarter. Mon-Rose would take back the lead at halftime, 25-19. The Titans led by just six points despite forcing 20 turnovers, and not taking full advantage of 14 Cyclone fouls. Mon-Rose only commited seven turnovers in the first half, but struggled at the free throw line in the first two quarters (8/19).
West Prairie opened up the second half with a quick Megan Wallen basket to cut it back to a four-point game, but Mon-Rose would get hot and go on a run to take an eventual 13-point lead, boosted by an Amanda Schreck three-pointer, and three Claire McGuire field goals. The Titans took a 45-32 lead into the fourth quarter.
The Cyclones fought hard, and were able to get the lead down to eight midway through the final frame. The struggles at the free throw line for the Titans were one of the reasons that the Cyclones were able to chip back into the game. In the fourth quarter, Mon-Rose went (2/9) from the charity stripe, and finished the game (12/36) from the line.
The visitors would prevail 63-50 to improve to (7-1) on the season. Rebecca Gillen scored a game-high 22 points, and Claire McGuire added 18 points. West Prairie was led by Chelsea Derry's 16 points, while Megan Bowman added 11 points. The Cyclones went (17/23) from the line, but turned the ball over 33 times. Mon-Rose finished with 13 turnovers.
The Quest File Notes
Game 22
Date: 12/7/09
Result: Monmouth-Roseville squeaks out a 63-50 win at West Prairie
Location: Sciota
Miles: 88
Saturday, December 5, 2009
Game 21: Dunlap @ Galesburg (Girl's Basketball)
Game 21
(12/5/09)
Dunlap @ Galesburg
An early wakeup call in the Monmouth AmericInn started this Saturday. Setting my alarm for 5 a.m. I wanted to guarantee a few minutes to brew some hotel coffee before heading into work.
After a couple hours at the station, I set out to return to the hotel for a couple hours before heading to John Thiel Gymnasium for the 21st broadcast of the year. As I walked out of the station, I wanted to make sure all of my equipment was with me so I didn't have to make a return trip downtown.
As I started to pull away, I realized that I didn't remind our boy's broadcast crew to leave the Marti unit in the broadcast booth at GHS, and they might have forgot I needed in the afternoon, before their game on Saturday night.
I phoned Gary Petersen, our WAIK boy's basketball broadcaster to ask where the Marti was, and sure enough he had it in his posession. Fortunately there was enough time in between and we scheduled to meet in Altona at 11. That gave me a little bit of time to update the IHSSN scoreboard and take a shower and check out.
Why are hotel showers so wonderful? I have tried over and over to match the output of a hotel shower head, but to no avail.
Another unfortunate circumstance during the months of November through March, is my inability to sucessfully pack a healthy lunch. This leaves me to feasting on late night fast food, and gas station lunches. Today, I dined on an extremely unhealthy gas station turkey sandwich (53% daily intake of sodium). I read these labels because of my high blood pressure, and in hopes that it teaches me to stop eating these culinary catastrophes.
I walked into Thiel Gymnasium around 11:45, prior to the fresh/soph tipoff. Set everything up in our broadcast booth and prepared my game notes while taking in some sophomore action. Galesburg freshman Jessica Lieber will be very fun to watch over the next few years. She would score 22 points in today's game against Dunlap, after scoring 20 against Rock Island on Tuesday.
Had a good conversation with coach Evan Massey on today's game, a relaxing non-conference affair against the Dunlap Eagles, who returned 0 starters from last year's team. Streaks senior Sara Baker, who injured her ankle this week, is not at the gym, due to an illness. Had she been healthy, she probably could have played.
To say the Streaks started hot would be an understatement. Galesburg jumped out to a 28-9 lead after the first quarter, boosted by five three-pointers. With 13 made three-pointers, fans in attendance wearing their McDonalds "3Diculous" t-shirts, receive a coupon for a free triple cheeseburger.
The second quarter was much of the same, this time a 29-point output to lead 57-29 at HALFTIME, phew. Ten three-pointers were drained by the halftime break, and Jessica Howard had five of them (17 points). The Streaks high offensive output was boosted by their defensive intensity, giving the visiting Eagles fits, to the tune of 25 first half turnovers.
Galesburg slowed things down a bit in the second half. Credit goes to Dunlap, as they protected the ball better and handled it much better, but the Streaks intensity was not to the level of the first half due to the large lead.
The Streaks would reach that 13 made three-pointers mark late in the third quarter, and finished with 16 on the game. This total ties them for 4th all-time in the IHSA record books for three-pointers made in a game. Galesburg finished (16-58), which gives them 381 three-point attempts on the season.
Jessica Howard, after being held without a field goal at Rock Island, scored a game-high 20 points. Dunlap saw a great second half by Alissa Recker, who scored 19 points (all after halftime). The Eagles also got 10 points from Lexi Hobbs and Allyson Kemmann. Galesburg would prevail 84-73, scoring 80+ points for the fourth time in eight games. Galesburg forced 35 turnovers, while coughing up the ball 22 times.
I was wanting to check in another game on Saturday night, possibly catching the final game at the Spoon River Tip Off Classic in Bushnell, but the short sleep I got made me think otherwise, and a nice nap was in order upon my arrival home.
The Quest File Notes
Game 21
Date: 12/5/09
Result: Galesburg pours it on in an 84-73 win over Dunlap
Location: Galesburg
Miles: 106
(12/5/09)
Dunlap @ Galesburg
An early wakeup call in the Monmouth AmericInn started this Saturday. Setting my alarm for 5 a.m. I wanted to guarantee a few minutes to brew some hotel coffee before heading into work.
After a couple hours at the station, I set out to return to the hotel for a couple hours before heading to John Thiel Gymnasium for the 21st broadcast of the year. As I walked out of the station, I wanted to make sure all of my equipment was with me so I didn't have to make a return trip downtown.
As I started to pull away, I realized that I didn't remind our boy's broadcast crew to leave the Marti unit in the broadcast booth at GHS, and they might have forgot I needed in the afternoon, before their game on Saturday night.
I phoned Gary Petersen, our WAIK boy's basketball broadcaster to ask where the Marti was, and sure enough he had it in his posession. Fortunately there was enough time in between and we scheduled to meet in Altona at 11. That gave me a little bit of time to update the IHSSN scoreboard and take a shower and check out.
Why are hotel showers so wonderful? I have tried over and over to match the output of a hotel shower head, but to no avail.
Another unfortunate circumstance during the months of November through March, is my inability to sucessfully pack a healthy lunch. This leaves me to feasting on late night fast food, and gas station lunches. Today, I dined on an extremely unhealthy gas station turkey sandwich (53% daily intake of sodium). I read these labels because of my high blood pressure, and in hopes that it teaches me to stop eating these culinary catastrophes.
I walked into Thiel Gymnasium around 11:45, prior to the fresh/soph tipoff. Set everything up in our broadcast booth and prepared my game notes while taking in some sophomore action. Galesburg freshman Jessica Lieber will be very fun to watch over the next few years. She would score 22 points in today's game against Dunlap, after scoring 20 against Rock Island on Tuesday.
Had a good conversation with coach Evan Massey on today's game, a relaxing non-conference affair against the Dunlap Eagles, who returned 0 starters from last year's team. Streaks senior Sara Baker, who injured her ankle this week, is not at the gym, due to an illness. Had she been healthy, she probably could have played.
To say the Streaks started hot would be an understatement. Galesburg jumped out to a 28-9 lead after the first quarter, boosted by five three-pointers. With 13 made three-pointers, fans in attendance wearing their McDonalds "3Diculous" t-shirts, receive a coupon for a free triple cheeseburger.
The second quarter was much of the same, this time a 29-point output to lead 57-29 at HALFTIME, phew. Ten three-pointers were drained by the halftime break, and Jessica Howard had five of them (17 points). The Streaks high offensive output was boosted by their defensive intensity, giving the visiting Eagles fits, to the tune of 25 first half turnovers.
Galesburg slowed things down a bit in the second half. Credit goes to Dunlap, as they protected the ball better and handled it much better, but the Streaks intensity was not to the level of the first half due to the large lead.
The Streaks would reach that 13 made three-pointers mark late in the third quarter, and finished with 16 on the game. This total ties them for 4th all-time in the IHSA record books for three-pointers made in a game. Galesburg finished (16-58), which gives them 381 three-point attempts on the season.
Jessica Howard, after being held without a field goal at Rock Island, scored a game-high 20 points. Dunlap saw a great second half by Alissa Recker, who scored 19 points (all after halftime). The Eagles also got 10 points from Lexi Hobbs and Allyson Kemmann. Galesburg would prevail 84-73, scoring 80+ points for the fourth time in eight games. Galesburg forced 35 turnovers, while coughing up the ball 22 times.
I was wanting to check in another game on Saturday night, possibly catching the final game at the Spoon River Tip Off Classic in Bushnell, but the short sleep I got made me think otherwise, and a nice nap was in order upon my arrival home.
The Quest File Notes
Game 21
Date: 12/5/09
Result: Galesburg pours it on in an 84-73 win over Dunlap
Location: Galesburg
Miles: 106
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