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Offer List[/URL]
Class of 2009 Offer List
Top Prospect Database[/URL]
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Postseason Rankings[/URL]
Class 4A
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Class of 2009 Video Highlights[/URL]
Video[/URL]:
Alex Walker Highlights 1
Video[/URL]:
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Brennecke Highlights 1
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Groenendyk Highlights 1
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Highlights 1
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Hutcheson Highlights 1
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Bohannon Highlights 1
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2008-2009 Game Highlights[/URL]
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Postseason Team Rankings[/URL]
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Breaking down the Preseason #1 Teams
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2008-2009 State Tournament Blog[/URL]
Update [/URL]- Thursday, March 12th @ 8:05 PM
Class 4A All Tournament Team thus far:
Doug McDermott - Ames (MVP)
Seth VanDeest - Bettendorf
Zach Bohannon - Linn-Mar
Nick Smith - Johnston
Jordan Gentry - Sioux City East
I really expect this team to have some major changes to it after
the championship. This is what I think it looks like following the first
round of Class 4A games. McDermott played a great game on Wednesday.
Although they were all shots around the basket, he did a great job scoring
inside and making all ten of his shots. That is why he is named the first
round MVP.
Update - Thursday, March 12th @ 8:05 PM
With a major size advantage against Carroll, Sioux City Heelan was
able to flex their muscles and make their second State title appearance in two
years. The Tigers battled throughout but just didn't have the horses to
come back after a slow first half. Heelan, as I seem to always say,
continues to be the favorite here with their size and ability to finish around
the basket. Brennan Cougill and Zach McCabe both had monster nights on the
court.
Update - Thursday, March 12th @ 5:12 PM
With an impressive second half of basketball, Pella Christian was
able to take down St. Edmond and punch their ticket to the State title game.
These two teams are very familiar with one another as they battled last winter
in the consolation game. I am willing to bet the crowd will be a bit
bigger when they play tomorrow night in the late contest. This is going to
be another excellent game but I do feel that Solon has an advantage here.
However, with the players that Pella Christian has, they are definitely going to
be tough to beat. It should be another huge contest headlined by great
players and excellent athletes.
Update - Thursday, March 12th @ 3:39 PM
Wow. Can anyone name a better basketball game played at the
State tournament? In double overtime, Trevor Wolterstorff hits a three to
tie the game. Possibly a third overtime? Not with Iowa's version of
Mr. Big Shot as Matt Morrison drains a three that could cement the Spartans as
the Class 2A State champions. Morrison ends the game with 34 points and
the game winner against the two time defending State champions. I expected
a great game, but this was even better.
Update - Thursday, March 12th @ 3:14 PM
Overtime! If an amazing game couldn't get any better, Solon
and Hull Western will be playing the next four minutes with the championship on
the line. As mentioned earlier, Matt Morrison has proven why he is flat
out a winner and goes into the overtime period with 29 points. Ben
Bergman, Morrison, and Tucker Wentzien all have four fouls so they have to be a
little cautious defensively. Losing any one of the three will be a major
blow to the Spartans.
Update - Thursday, March 12th @ 2:57 PM
Matt Morrison knows that Hull Western Christian may be the toughest
test for Solon to win the State title. He has thrown the Spartans on his
back during the third quarter and dominated with his all around play. At
the end of the third quarter, he leads both teams in scoring at 22 points and
has willed Solon to a five point deficit. One interesting thing to keep an
eye out that could hurt Solon is both Morrison and Tucket Wentizen have three
fouls. Could that come back and haunt them?
Update [/URL]- Thursday, March 12th @
2:45 PM
Ranking the Class 4A State tournament teams:
1.) Ames
2.) Linn-Mar
3.) Bettendorf
4.) Johnston
5.) Sioux City East
6.) Urbandale
7.) Cedar Falls
8.) Iowa City West
A few thoughts on these rankings:
There was no doubt that Ames appeared to play the best game. But what
needs to be mentioned is how well Linn-Mar played. The Lions have a huge
chip on their shoulder with Nate Hutcheson in street clothes on the bench and
they played like it in their victory over Cedar Falls. They did an
excellent job overall and showed why they have been among the top teams in Class
4A over the last six years.
The question that I was asked a lot is can the winner of Linn-Mar/Bettendorf
play with Ames (assuming that they are able to get past Johnston). What I
realized in talking with some of the players from Ames is that they are not
happy with their game yesterday. They have two more contests to win and
won't relax until that happens. It is amazing how focused the players and
coaches are for the Little Cyclones. Combine that with their ultra
talented team and there is little doubt that they remain the heavy favorites.
Bettendorf and Linn-Mar are very good but do they have the horses to play with
Ames for thirty two minutes? That has given team fits all season and that
is why they are undefeated at this point. With Hutcheson, the Lions may
have been able to play with them. With him on the bench, I feel that Ames
has the motivation and talent level to win it all. Plus Harrison Barnes
will not be saddled with foul trouble on Friday. You can bet on that.
Update - Thursday, March 12th @ 2:36 PM
The Solon vs. Hull Western game has been a tale of two different games it
seems. Solon started the game off extremely well and showed why they were
rated #1 for a good portion of the season. Then late in the first quarter
and throughout the second quarter the Wolfpack went crazy from behind the arc as
they have nailed seven of their twelve attempts. Hull Western is up 41-27
and have made 50% of their shots compared to the 31% of the shots that the
Spartans have made.
For the second half, there is no way that Hull Western can shoot that well
from behind the arc. But because they shot so well, will they be content
in attempting a number from behind the arc? If they do that, there is no
doubt that Solon will make this a very good game. With the way that they
started this ball game, it is obvious that they can play with the defending
champions. This really should be quite the second half!
Update - Thursday, March 12th @ 2:25 PM
The two time defending champions from Hull Western Christian are shooting
lights out from behind the perimeter today. They have six of their eight
attempts. No way the Wolfpack can keep that shooting up but it certainly
has helped them in their showdown with undefeated Solon in the Class 2A
semifinals. At last count, they were up 36-21 midway through the second
quarter.
Update [/URL]- Wednesday, March 11th @
8:10 PM
Audio from Bettendorf defeating Sioux City East:
Audio:
George
Dexter Interview
Audio: Jeff
Vanderloo Interview
Audio:
Jordan Gentry Interview
Audio:
Kevin Skillett Interview
Audio:
Nolan Murray Interview
Audio: Seth
VanDeest Interview
Postgame thoughts: There is no doubt that Bettendorf knows how
to win ball games. It may be ugly but they have what it takes to get
victories. They were able to do that tonight in the fourth Class 4A
quarterfinal against Sioux City East. The Bulldogs earned a lead in the
second half and were able to sustain it through many rallies by the lower seeded
Black Raiders. The two headed post monster of Seth VanDeest and George
Dexter were key for Bettendorf throughout. They combined for thirty one
points overall.
Update [/URL]- Wednesday, March 11th
@ 8:10 PM
Audio from today's Linn-Mar victory over Cedar Falls:
Audio:
Andrew
Wirth Interview
Audio: Drew
Crawford Interview
Audio:
James Harrington Interview
Audio:
Marcus Paige Interview
Audio: Zach
Bohannon Interview
Postgame thoughts: Even with Nate Hutcheson not in the game,
Linn-Mar played inspired basketball and able to win their sixth straight State
quarterfinal game. That says a lot about the Lions and their program.
Cedar Falls, who had defeated Linn-Mar just weeks ago, struggled to slow them
down defensively as the Lions hit 57% of their shots from the field.
Seniors Drew Crawford and Zach Bohannon both had big games in their final State
tournament as they combined to score 31 points.
Update [/URL]- Wednesday, March 11th @
5:15 PM
Audio from Urbandale's narrow victory Johnston, 43-37.
Audio:
Bobby
Sandquist Interview
Audio: Brad
Bjorkgren Interview
Audio:
Corey Schaefer Interview
Audio: Nick
Smith Interview
Postgame thoughts: It wasn't pretty but the defensive intensity to
hold a good Urbandale team to only 25% shooting from the floor was enough to
help them to a first round State tournament win. The Dragons avenged two
regular season losses to the J-Hawks and outscored them by a 16-4 margin in the
fourth quarter. This game was a very physical Class 4A match up were both
teams were going hard inside. Justin Amick and Nick Smith led Johnston
with 12 points each and Tyler Lange of Urbandale matched that number as well.
Update [/URL]- Wednesday, March 11th @
3:18 PM
Here are our audio interviews from the Class 4A State tournament opener.
Ames outlasted Iowa City West in this contest:
Audio:
Bubu Palo
Interview
Audio: Doug
McDermott Interview
Audio: Nick
Wilson Interview
Audio:
Steve Bergman Interview
Audio:
Tayler Bontrager Interview
Audio:
Vance Downs Interview
Postgame thoughts: The ability of Ames to get easy shots paid off
in this opener to the Class 4A State tournament. With Harrison Barnes
plagued with first half foul trouble, Doug McDermott took advantage of his
opportunities inside and dominated with 22 points and 11 rebounds. This
junior did not miss a shot from the floor as he was 10 of 10. Iowa City
West did what they could to slow the game down and to get great shots but the
Little Cyclones came out strong in their eventual 69-42 win. Ames ended up
scoring 50 of those points inside the paint, which makes it tough to beat
anyone.
Update - Wednesday, March 11th @ 2:23 PM
A few things about the first half in the first Class 4A game of the day.
Ames leads Iowa City West by a score of 32-18. It should come as no
surprise that Iowa City West has slowed the pace and it focusing on taking very
good shots. They don't want to get into a shootout with the Little
Cyclones and they obviously know better than this.
I was one excited about Harrison Barnes playing at State and unfortunately
the refs saddled him with two fouls. I am trying not to be a homer for any
player but the second foul was a bad call. The first one he reached in on
and deserved the call. His stat line goes like this for the first half: 1
of 2 shooting from the field | 2 of 2 from the free throw line | 2 rebounds | 4
points | 1 block | 6 minutes
Update [/URL]- Wednesday, March
11th @ 2:15 PM
Class 3A first round All Tournament team:
Alex Dorr - Norwalk (MVP)
Zach McCabe - Heelan
Blake Haluska - Carroll
Brennan Cougill - Heelan
Jacob Schaben - Harlan
Update [/URL]- Wednesday,
March 11th @ 2:15 PM
Ranking the Class 3A teams:
1.) Norwalk
2.) Sioux City Heelan
3.) Carroll
4.) Harlan
5.) Marion
6.) Benton
7.) Dubuque Wahlert
8.) New Hampton
Update [/URL]- Wednesday, March 11th @
2:00 PM
Here are our audio interviews from the final Class 3A game in which
Harlan was able to defeat Benton:
Audio:
Jeff
Hastert Interview
Audio:
Larry Carlson Interview
Audio: Luke
Lansman Interview
Audio:
Michael Kaufmann Interview
Audio:
Mitch Osborn Interview
Audio: Zach
Twedt Interview
Postgame thoughts: It may not have been pretty but Harlan
knows how to win games at the State tournament. They showed that they
could do it by using a variety of defenses that included a box and one as well
as a triangle and two to slow down the top two scorers for the Bobcats.
Again, this was not a pretty win but the Cyclones were able to pull out a hard
fought victory, 49-40. They held Benton leading scorer Levi Montague to
two points as he only attempted two shots on the game.
Update [/URL]- Wednesday, March 11th @ 11:04 AM
Here is my Class 2A All Tournament team thus far:
Trevor Wolterstorff - Hull Western Christian (MVP)
Joey Flattery - St. Edmond
John Engler - St. Edmond
Tucker Wentzien - Solon
Cliff Warner - Pella Christian
Jake Shipley - West Marshall
Update[/URL] - Wednesday, March 11th @ 11:02 AM
It may be late but here is my rankings of the Class 2A teams at the State
tournament:
1.) Solon
2.) Hull Western Christian
3.) Pella Christian
4.) St. Edmond
5.) St. Albert
6.) West Marshall
7.) Sumner-Fredricksburg
8.) Central Lee
Update - Wednesday, March 11th @ 10:50 AM
There is a ton of news I have been meaning to talk about over the
last day and finally have a few minutes to do so.
First, Nate Hutcheson and Linn-Mar. The Lions obviously have
suspended this talented senior for the rest of the season. It is not a one
or a two game suspension. He is done for the year. Considering I
predicted the Lions winning the title, there is a slim chance of that happening
now. I love the talented team that they will still be playing but it will
be very, very difficult to see them getting past both Bettendorf and Ames.
I feel that Ames is at an even bigger advantage now then they were previously.
If I had to re-do the picks with this knowledge, I would guess that the Lions
rally to get past Cedar Falls in the first round, lose to Bettendorf, and find a
way to defeat Urbandale in the consolation game. Ames is able to get past
a solid Bettendorf club in the title game and finish the year undefeated.
Without Hutcheson, I don't think any team has the talent to defeat Ames unless
they choke in a big way under the lights.
I have received about a thousand questions where basketball players are going
but outside of the ones that signed in the fall, most will still be waiting a
few weeks before announcing their college decisions. One player who did
make a final call on his college future is ADM athlete Wes Nordquist. I
talked to him for about a minute last night and he said that he will be going to
Buena Vista. I am not 100% sure if he will be playing both football and
basketball or just basketball but Nordquist passed up Division II interest for
football and basketball. I have a feeling he is going to be a monster in
the Iowa Conference. The majority of other kids looking at the Iowa
Conference are undecided and still waiting for that hopeful dream offer.
Two things that I did hear related to official visits is Mitchell Murphy of
Crestwood taking a trip to Southwest Minnesota State and Mount Vernon bigman
Eric Olson setting up a journey to Minnesota State Mankato.
On the Mr. Basketball front, as much as I think he deserved the
award during the regular season, the performance that Eric May of Dubuque
Wahlert had in the first round likely puts him out of competition. For the
Iowa Preps version of the award, I think it comes down to Trevor Wolterstorff of
Hull Western Christian, Brennan Cougill of Heelan, and Harrison Barnes of Ames.
You might as well put Cougill down as a lock for the award with the AP voters.
Update [/URL]- Wednesday, March 11th @
10:35 AM
Here are our audio interviews from Norwalk defeating Dubuque
Wahlert in
the first round of the State tournament:
Audio:
Alex Dorr
Interview
Audio:
Chris
Larson Interview
Audio:
Eric May
Interview
Audio:
Jacob
Petersen Interview
Audio:
Jarod
Stogdill Interview
Audio:
Matt
Dermody Interview
Audio:
Tom English
Interview
Postgame thoughts: Was it the stingy defense of Norwalk or the
rough shooting from Wahlert that was the difference in this game? The
defending champs struggled mightily from the field as Eric May went 1 for 11
from behind the three point arc. Norwalk did an excellent job defending
him as they had Alex Dorr and Matt Dermody both switching out on him at times.
With their lengthy frames, both did a nice job slowing down this future Iowa
Hawkeye. There is no doubt that the Warriors are a club to keep an eye on
for the State title. They played well enough in this game that they have a
definite shot to win it all.
Update [/URL]- Tuesday, March 10th @ 8:30
PM
Here are our audio interviews from Carroll's win against Marion in
the first round of the State tournament:
Audio:
Amry Shelby
Interview
Audio:
Blake Haluska Interview
Audio:
Casey Kausperbauer Interview
Audio:
Craig Douma Interview
Audio:
Kasey Semler Interview
Audio: Mike
Manderscheid Interview
Postgame thoughts: In one of the better overall games at the State
basketball tournament, Carroll narrowly avoided a major upset by Marion to move
into the Class 3A semifinals. The Indians were able to steal the ball down
by one before the buzzer and get a great shot but could not connect. The
Tigers used a balanced attack scoring while the Indians were led once again by
the stellar play of Amry Shelby. This All Stater looked to be the best
player on the court tonight but that wasn't enough for their team to advance.
Update [/URL]- Tuesday, March 10th @ 5:55
PM
Here are our audio interviews from Sioux City Heelan defeating New Hampton in
the first round of the State tournament:
Audio:
Brennan
Cougill Interview
Audio: John
Joachim Interview
Audio:
Jordan Moore Interview
Audio:
Tanner Ferguson Interview
Audio: Zach
McCabe Interview
Postgame thoughts: The performance that Sioux City Heelan put on in
this first round game showed that they mean business for the State title.
The Crusaders were dominant throughout the course of the victory and proved to
be a tough opponent to defeat. Both Brennan Cougill and Zach McCabe were
impressive in all facets of the game and showcased the skills at a State wide
level. After struggling last year in the opening game at State, Heelan
looked tough. New Hampton was able to play at the high level that helped
them journey to Des Moines.
Update - Tuesday, March 10th @ 3:56 PM
It seems like at the Class 3A and 4A levels, the #1 vs. #8 seeds
end up getting ugly early and often. That is the case right now as Heelan
is up 28-8 with 2:44 left in the second quarter. For those curious, Jordan
Moore of New Hampton has ALL eight of their points.
Update [/URL]- Tuesday, March 10th @ 3:44 PM
Here are our audio interviews from Pella Christian's victory over
Sumner-Fredricksburg:
Audio:
Cliff
Warner Interview
Audio: Eli
Groenendyk Interview
Audio: Jim
Stewart Interview
Audio: Jon
Holwerda Interview
Audio:
Larry Hessing Interview
Audio:
Trevor Harris Interview
Postgame thoughts: As talked about a little bit during the game,
Sumner-Fredricksburg had a heck of a season but they were no match for Pella
Christian. The Eagles are a senior laden team who knows what it takes to
play at the State tournament. They showed that and dominated on their way
to a 77-46 victory. There is no doubt that Pella Christian is in the mix
for the Class 2A State title and they will get a chance to show their skills
against St. Edmond in the next round.
Update - Tuesday, March 10th @ 2:20 PM
Pella Christian takes a 32-17 lead with 3:28 left in the second
quarter. Sumner-Fredricksburg is a solid team and they have had a great
season. But this Pella Christian club is focused on winning a lot of games
down here and they are playing like it.
Update [/URL]- Tuesday, March 10th @ 2:05
PM
Here are the postgame interviews from St. Edmond's overtime victory
against St. Albert
Audio: Adolph Kochendorfer Interview
Audio: Andrew Brown Interview
Audio: Dale Scott Interview
Audio: Jake Anderson Interview
Audio: Jake Waters Interview
Audio: John Engler Interview
Postgame thoughts: This is no offense to St. Edmond but I think St. Albert
looked like the better team on the court today. They seemed to play harder
throughout and made it a game despite coming in as the #2 seed. But the
difference in the game throughout was that the Gaels have proven time and time
again that they know how to win at the State tournament. Their senior
class was vital to the runner up finish a season ago and it showed in this
battle.
Update - Tuesday, March 10th @ 12:35 PM
Great first half of basketball as St. Albert takes a 34-32 lead
going into halftime. I have to give the Falcons credit as the first team I
remember having two players from the same team dive on the floor for a loose
ball. That included 7-footer Jake Anderson.
Update - Tuesday, March 10th @ 12:20 PM
After I wrote about St. Albert not winning, they went on a run to
finish the first quarter 20-13. These are two quality ball clubs and I
love this type of game.
Update - Tuesday, March 10th @ 12:13 PM
I am not sure if they will win but I really do enjoy liking this St. Albert
team play. They have a lot of great athletes, really push the pace, and
they all play hard. Having a 7-footer inside is a key to their press as
they can use the athletes to run and jump their opponents.
St. Edmond may not be pretty but they are smart and know how to play
basketball. Playing for Coach K makes you almost have a great basketball
IQ.
Update - Tuesday, March 10th @ 11:53 AM
One of the most interesting rumors regarding athletes is Nate Hutcheson of
Linn-Mar. The rumor regards if he will be able to play on Wendesday
because of an off the court incident. The Cedar Rapids media has already
run with the story and made it clear that something is up. If you want to
learn more about it, check their sites. From the sound of things,
Hutcheson will be playing against Cedar Falls. That obviously could change
but the weekend before State is never a good time to have anything to do with a
party.
Update - Tuesday, March 10th @ 11:52 AM
Breaking down the games today, here is what we have for the five games being
played on Tuesday:
Class 2A
St. Edmond vs. St. Albert
Pella Christian vs. Sumner-Fredricksburg
Class 3A
Sioux City Heelan vs. New Hampton
Marion vs. Carroll
Harlan vs. Benton
Norwalk vs. Dubuque Wahlert
If I had to pick a best game now? I would go with the finale
in Norwalk vs. Wahlert. Norwalk definitely has enough talent to beat
Wahlert but they have Eric May. He may not have the cast around him but
May is that good that he could throw the team on his back.
Update [/URL]- Monday, March 9th @ 10:00
PM
Here are the postgame interviews from Hull Western Christian's
victory over West Marshall
Audio: David Shipley
Interview
Audio: Jake Shipley
Interview
Audio: Jim Eekhoff
Interview
Audio: Jordan Vogel
Interview
Audio: Shawn Keizer
Interview
Audio: Trevor Wolterstorff
Interview
Postgame thoughts: There is no doubt that I have to give West Marshall
credit. After being blown out by Hull Western Christian, they proved that
they can play with the two time defending champions. They relished the
opportunity and it showed as they dominated throughout the first quarter.
The Wolfpack came out slow but showed the heart of a champion by coming back
during the second quarter and on. There is little doubt that this club is
looking forward to their matchup with Solon in the semifinals.
Update - Monday, March 9th @ 8:48 PM
Thought it might be time for an update? Sorry about that.
One thing that happens during the State tournament is I get stir crazy if I sit
on press row the entire time. What that means it the blog is not updated
as much as it should be because I am sitting somewhere else.
First off, Solon looked extremely impressive in the first round
game. From the Spartans, it was obvious the Spartans were going to win by
a lopsided margin. This is not taking anything away from Central Lee
because they have been doing that all year to their opponents.
In the current game, West Marshall started out on fire but the
champion mentality of Hull Western Christian really showed during the second
quarter. The Wolfpack is currently winning 36-27 at halftime.
What do you expect to be on TV in the press room at the start of
the Hull Western game? The actual basketball game? No, they were
watching Dancing with the Stars. The reason is because of Shawn Johnson
but I still found it funny. Apparently people in the room thought she did
well.
Update [/URL]- Monday, March 9th @ 8:30 PM
Here are the postgame interviews from Solon's dominating win over
Central Lee
Audio: Ben Bergman
Interview
Audio: Brad Randall
Interview
Audio: Brad Vogel
Interview
Audio: Brett Azinger
Interview
Audio: Clay Vass
Interview
Audio: Matt Morrison
Interview
Audio: Trevor Pezley
Interview
Audio: Tucker Wentzien
Interview
Postgame thoughts: Solon proved that their hopeful run to a State title was
not going to end in the first round. The Spartans gave it their all and
put it on Central Lee in an impressive 82-44. Their press was clicking
from the start. Throw in the fact that Matt Morrison, Tucker Wentizen, and
Ben Bergman all had huge nights the Solon showed why they went undefeated
throughout the regular season. This club is serious about the State title
and it is obvious that they are going to take no prisoners along the way.
Update [/URL]- Monday, March 9th @ 5:30
Here are the postgame interviews from Rock Valley's victory against
Villisca
Audio: Eli Cordon
Interview
Audio: Heath Swanson
Interview
Audio: Jim Obermeier
Interview
Audio: Jordan Dykstra
Interview
Audio: Marcus Heemstra
Interview
Audio: Ryan Focht
Interview
Postgame thoughts: What more can I say that the 77-49 scoreboard doesn't
already? Rock Valley is dominant and it showed in this content. They
were hitting on all cylinders and remains the favorite to win the Class 1A
title. They just pounded Villisca and forced them into 26 overall
turnovers. There really is not much to say other than the Rockets are an
amazing Class 1A ball club.
Update [/URL]- Monday,
March 9th @ 4:55 PM - My current Class 1A All Tournament Team
Again, with the first round being done for the most part, I thought I would
put together my Class 1A All Tournament team. Things can still change but
here is who I feel would get this honor if the tournament ended after the first
round:
Jordan Dykstra - Rock Valley (MVP)
Jesse Ney - IMS
Zach Van Engen - Rock Valley
Tyler Betz - Ventura
Adam Woodin - Laurens-Marathon
Others to keep an eye on:
Marcus Heemstra - Rock Valley
Eddie Diemer - NU High
Ryan Focht - Villisca
Update [/URL]- Monday, March 9th @
4:51 PM
- Class 1A Team Ranking
After having all eight teams play today in the Class 1A ranks, I
thought it would be a great time to rank them 1-8. Here are my thoughts:
1.) Rock Valley - This one is not even close. Rock Valley
played amazing today.
2.) Iowa Mennonite - There is little doubt that IMS has the best shot right now
of beating Rock Valley.
3.) NU High - The Panthers are definitely a player in potentially winning their
second straight State title.
4.) Adair-Casey - This team is talented and unfortunately the #1 seed helped
them very little. Thanks seeding process.
5.) Laurens-Marathon - Their defensive pressure helped them get a first round
win.
6.) Ventura - Tyler Betz is a force but few others stepped up around him.
7.) Burlington Notre Dame - They have struggled at State the past two years for
whatever reason.
8.) Villisca - Not sure if it was them not playing well or Rock Valley being
that good. I guess we'll find out this week.
Update - Monday, March 9th @ 4:46 PM
Rock Valley pulled their starters with 6:31 left and a 72-35
lead. I honestly think the refs were making sure it was time to pull those
starters by giving Villisca some favorable calls. As a former bench player
in high school myself, these players deserve to see the court.
Update - Monday, March 9th @ 4:43 PM
Well my hopes/guesses turned out to be wrong. Up 68-33 going
into the fourth quarter, Heemstra and Dykstra are both checking back in. I
don't want anything bad to happen to them but what exactly good can come out of
this?
Update - Monday, March 9th @ 4:41 PM
My guess (or hope) is that Rock Valley calls off the dogs in the
fourth quarter. Jordan Dykstra is still in with 1:04 left in the third
quarter and the score at 67-29.
Update - Monday, March 9th @ 4:33 PM
I have a new concept that the last few State tournaments have led
me to believe happens frequently. It is the semifinal tournament hangover.
The perfect example of this happening where Wahlert destroyed Heelan in the
first round of the State tournament. They were hitting on all cylinders
and would have beat just about anyone that they played. Because they
played so well, there is no doubt that they would play much worse in the next
game. With Forest City being an amazing team but not as hyped up as the
Crusaders, Wahlert struggled through a win and had the semifinal hangover.
They won but it wasn't pretty.
The reason why I bring this up is because while Rock Valley is a
heck of a ball club, I have a good feeling that they will have a semifinal
hangover against IMS. I think it will be very hard to beat an experienced
club like that so badly at State, regardless of how well they are playing.
Then again, two of my final four teams already lost so who knows what I am
talking about.
Update - Monday, March 9th @ 4:22 PM
Going into the final Class 1A game of the day, I was unsure who exactly was
the best team. Rock Valley answered that question with an exclamation
point as they have exploded for 54 points and currently hold a thirty point
lead. It doesn't matter what they do in the second half, my decision to
pick them as champions is still something I feel even more confident (even if my
predictions were like the plague for the first two games this morning).
So how do you stop Rock Valley? I would say the first thing you have to
do is get either Marcus Heemstra of Jordan Dykstra in foul trouble. If you
take one piece of the two headed monster out of the game, it will be harder for
them to use their length. The opposition must also find a way to force
their pace and not the press and hectic play of Rock Valley dictate how the game
goes. It certainly is not going to be.
I just got the stats and Villisca had 22 turnovers in the first half.
That allowed Rock Valley to attempt nineteen more shots.
Update - Monday, March 9th @ 3:53 PM
One of the things that Marcus Heemstra of Rock Valley talked about before
their game against Villisca was making them play at their pace. With 2:46
in the first quarter, Rock Valley has already scored 21 points and is really
pushing the pace. This squad is talented.
Update [/URL]- Monday, March 9th @ 3:40 PM
Here are the postgame interviews from IMS's victory over Ventura in the third
Class 1A quarterfinal:
Audio: Dean Berhow-Goll
Interview
Audio: Dwight Gingerich
Interview
Audio: Ethan Gingerich
Interview
Audio: Jesse Ney
Interview
Audio: Ryan Eastvold
Interview
Audio: Tyler Betz
Interview
Postgame thoughts: While Tyler Betz was a force inside for Ventura, IMS was
the better team and it showed in their 62-46 win. Betz battled and scored
26 points before fouling out but was out dueled by the 27 points Jesse Ney of
IMS scored. This senior said specifically he wants Rock Valley in the
semifinals (as you can hear on the audio). Obviously he is not backing
down from a challenge of two of the best bigs in the entire State, regardless of
class.
Update - Monday, March 9th @ 2:23 PM
Momentum changer? Ventura hits a deep three at the end of the second
quarter to pull the score to 32-26. This really is a big shot considering
they now have the momentum on their side.
Update - Monday, March 9th @ 2:18 PM
Jesse Ney of IMS is probably the best individual player that I have seen so
far today. His versatility makes him such a tough matchup against anyone,
especially at the Class 1A level.
Update - Monday, March 9th @ 2:11 PM
Going back to my original predictions, I am currently sitting at 0-2. I
would stop doing them but why would I want to stop providing such great bulletin
board material for teams?
IMS is leading at the end of the first quarter 17-9. They look very
impressive thus far and appear to have the talent to move on. Ventura
obviously will make a charge but IMS is good.
Update [/URL]- Monday, March 9th @ 2:05 PM
Here are the postgame interviews from Laurens-Marathon and their win over
Burlington Notre Dame:
Audio: Adam Woodin
Interview
Audio: Andrew Schilling
Interview
Audio: Matt Winter
Interview
Audio: Ryan Rump
Interview
Audio: Ryan Stumbo
Interview
Postgame thoughts: The senior leadership of Laurens-Marathon showed today on
the basketball court. They ended up playing like the team that had made a
run to the State tournament before. Burlington Notre Dame, who struggled
last year here, repeated the feat. After getting up in the first quarter,
they struggled while shooting 28% from the floor, 13% from behind the three
point arc, and 57% from the free throw line. Laurens-Marathon played well
defensively but it came down to them just struggling to put the ball in the
hole.
Update - Monday, March 9th @ 12:45 PM
At halftime, Laurens-Marathon is up over Burlington Notre Dame 19-18.
This is a sloppy game that I would expect from two squads new to the State
tournament. However, this is how Burlington Notre Dame played a season ago
in Des Moines and they are sloppy this time around again. I would expect
both teams to be more comfortable in the second half of we will be watching a
game where both teams fail to score over forty points each.
Update - Monday, March 9th @ 12:35 PM
Sorry for the lack of update. I spent so much time trying to work on
the previous game that I usually don't get a chance to pay much attention to the
current game. And if I want to do postgame interviews, there really is not
much that I can do about that.
As for the game, it was a sloppy first quarter with Burlington Notre Dame
having a slight edge. Laurens-Marathon has come back in the second quarter
and now boasts a 13-11 lead with 5:20 left in the game.
Update [/URL]- Monday, March 9th @ 12:15
PM
Here are the postgame interviews from NU High's win over Adair-Casey.
Audio: Eddie Diemer
Interview
Audio: Johnny Hines
Interview
Audio: Josh Harris
Interview
Audio: Mark Emgarten
Interview
Audio: Paul Elser
Interview
Audio: Tanner Cooke
Interview
Audio: Zack Leeper
Interview
Postgame thoughts: For the third time in four years, the #1 seed is done in
the Class 1A field. This is a perfect example why the seeding process
needs to be changed. Adair-Casey is a talented team but they ran into an NU High
team that played a loaded schedule, has tough players, and has State tournament
experience. Their run in the first quarter proved to be too much in the
end as they won their fourth State tournament game in two years.
Update - Monday, March 9th @ 11:48 AM
There goes my chances of a perfect Class 1A tournament. I should have
went with my gut here but I guess I'll pay for that.
Update - Monday, March 9th @ 11:47 AM
Adair-Casey does a nice job defensively to get a 10 second call but misses a
wide open three pointer. NU High sinks both free throws to go up 56-50.
Update - Monday, March 9th @ 11:45 AM
With 30.4 seconds left, NU High is up 54-50. Adair-Casey air balled a
three pointer but Josh Harris rebounded the ball and scored. The Panthers
called a timeout following an attempt to get the ball in.
Update - Monday, March 9th @ 11:39 AM
If NU High can make their free throws, they will win the game. They are
currently up 51-44 with 1:50 left in the game and have made four straight free
throws.
Update - Monday, March 9th @ 11:35 AM
NU High has pressured Zack Leeper all game and covered him full court.
Win or loss, he will be out of energy by the end of the game. They have
thrown some outstanding athletes to slow him down and for the most part, it does
appear that they have tired him. He currently has thirteen points.
Update - Monday, March 9th @ 11:33 AM
Down by four, the refs call a charge on a potential and one for Adair-Casey
that could have cut the lead to one. This already has the looks of being a
sloppy game down the stretch over the last 3:44 of the game. Right now, NU
High is up 45-41.
Update - Monday, March 9th @ 11:28 AM
Up by seven with five minutes left to go, it appears as if NU High has gone
somewhat conservative. It will be interesting to see how this goes and if
they continue slowing things down and playing away from their strength.
Update - Monday, March 9th @ 11:22 AM
At the end of the third quarter, NU High leads 42-33 over undefeated
Adair-Casey. Both teams have had momentum swing in their direction over
the last few minutes but the Panthers were able to continue to lead. They
also were able to get some of their key players a rest at the end of the
quarter. That could really help them down the stretch.
Update - Monday, March 9th @ 11:20 AM
With four scorers averaging above five points per game, NU High is backing off
of the fifth athlete on the court in order to shut down Zack Leeper. That
has forced Josh Harris to be more aggressive offensively and as he currently has
eight points.
Update - Monday, March 9th @ 11:15 AM
Welcome to the 2009 State Tournament blog. This is my first entry of what
will hopefully be a number over the next few days. Anyways, there is 3:52
left in the third quarter and NU High is beating Adair-Casey 37-26. While
this would be considered an update in terms of seeds, I still believe the
majority of readers of this site felt that the Panthers would move on with a win
here. I will have more updates throughout the game.
2008-2009 Substate & District Basketball
Previews[/URL]
These substate and district previews were finished before the postseason
began.
Class 4A[/URL]
Substate 1
Substate 2
Substate 3
Substate 4
Substate 5
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Substate
Final Preview & Predictions
Substate Semifinal Preview & Predictions
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Predictions
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Class 3A[/URL]
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State Tournament Picks
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Class 2A[/URL]
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State Tournament Picks
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Class 1A[/URL]
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Preseason [/URL]All State Teams
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Preseason [/URL]2008-2009 Mr. Basketball
Candidates
Candidate #1
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Candidate #9
Candidate #10
Preseason Rankings [/URL](Adjustments made
on 10/6/2008)
Class 4A
Class 3A
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Early Substate Thoughts & Predictions[/URL]
Class 4A
Class 3A
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AAU Summer Recaps[/URL]
Martin Bros.
All Iowa Attack
Spring AAU Team Profiles[/URL]
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Iowa Barnstormers Black
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Triple Threat Hoops
Championship Rankings (1999-2008)[/URL]
Class 4A
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Top Coaching Positions by Class[/URL]
Class 4A
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Pre-Preseason Rankings[/URL]
Class 4A Top 10
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Class 1A Top 10
This post was edited on 4/16 11:34 PM by LukeFeddersen
This post was edited on 4/27 1:59 PM by LukeFeddersen
This post was edited on 4/27 2:09 PM by LukeFeddersen
Class of 2009 Commitment List
Class of 2009 Player Rankings[/URL]
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Class of 2010 Player Rankings[/URL]
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Class of 2011 Player Rankings[/URL]
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Offer List[/URL]
Class of 2009 Offer List
Top Prospect Database[/URL]
Class of 2009 Top Prospect Database
Postseason Rankings[/URL]
Class 4A
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Class of 2009 Video Highlights[/URL]
Video[/URL]:
Alex Walker Highlights 1
Video[/URL]:
Ben
Brennecke Highlights 1
Video[/URL]:
Ben Lechtenberg Highlights 1
Video[/URL]:
Ben Weeks Highlights 1
Video[/URL]:
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Video[/URL]:
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Werkman Highlights 1
Video[/URL]:
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Warner Highlights 1
Video[/URL]:
Conor
Boffeli Highlights 1
Video[/URL]:
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Mataloni Highlights 1
Video[/URL]:
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Mataloni Highlights 2
Video[/URL]:
David
Mataloni Highlights 3
Video[/URL]:
David
Mataloni Highlights 4
Video[/URL]:
Dennis Halverson Highlights 1
Video[/URL]:
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Video[/URL]:
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Video[/URL]:
Eli
Groenendyk Highlights 1
Video[/URL]:
Eric Jesse
Highlights 1
Video:
Eric Jesse Highlights 2
Video[/URL]:
Eric May
Highlights 1
Video[/URL]:
Gabe
Knutson Highlights 1
Video:
Gabe
Knutson Highlights 2
Video[/URL]:
George Dexter Highlights 1
Video[/URL]:
Hal Bateman
Highlights 1
Video:
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Video[/URL]:
Jaron Nash
Highlights 1
Video[/URL]:
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Video:
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Video:
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Video[/URL]:
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Pritchard Highlights 1
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Video:
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Highlights 1
Video[/URL]:
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Video[/URL]:
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Video:
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Video:
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Video[/URL]:
Nate
Hutcheson Highlights 1
Video:
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Video[/URL]:
Quinton
VanArsdale Highlights 1
Video[/URL]:
Reece
Uhlenhopp Highlights 1
Video[/URL]:
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Ross
Ellrich Highlights 1
Video[/URL]:
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Video[/URL]:
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Video[/URL]:
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Video[/URL]:
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Video[/URL]:
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Video[/URL]:
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Video[/URL]:
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Video[/URL]:
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Video:
Tyler Johnson Highlights 2
Video[/URL]:
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Video[/URL]:
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Video[/URL]:
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Video[/URL]:
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Video[/URL]:
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Bohannon Highlights 1
Video:
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Video[/URL]:
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2008-2009 Game Highlights[/URL]
Video:
Assumption vs. Muscatine Highlights 1
Video:
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Video:
Assumption vs. Muscatine Highlights 3
Video:
Bettendorf vs. Iowa City High Highlights 1
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Video:
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Elite All State[/URL]
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Postseason Team Rankings[/URL]
Class 4A
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2009-2010 Preseason Rankings[/URL]
(Note: These rankings were completed before many teams changed class due to
enrollment)
Breaking down the Preseason #1 Teams
Class 4A
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Top 150 in 2009[/URL]
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2008-2009 State Tournament Blog[/URL]
Update [/URL]- Thursday, March 12th @ 8:05 PM
Class 4A All Tournament Team thus far:
Doug McDermott - Ames (MVP)
Seth VanDeest - Bettendorf
Zach Bohannon - Linn-Mar
Nick Smith - Johnston
Jordan Gentry - Sioux City East
I really expect this team to have some major changes to it after
the championship. This is what I think it looks like following the first
round of Class 4A games. McDermott played a great game on Wednesday.
Although they were all shots around the basket, he did a great job scoring
inside and making all ten of his shots. That is why he is named the first
round MVP.
Update - Thursday, March 12th @ 8:05 PM
With a major size advantage against Carroll, Sioux City Heelan was
able to flex their muscles and make their second State title appearance in two
years. The Tigers battled throughout but just didn't have the horses to
come back after a slow first half. Heelan, as I seem to always say,
continues to be the favorite here with their size and ability to finish around
the basket. Brennan Cougill and Zach McCabe both had monster nights on the
court.
Update - Thursday, March 12th @ 5:12 PM
With an impressive second half of basketball, Pella Christian was
able to take down St. Edmond and punch their ticket to the State title game.
These two teams are very familiar with one another as they battled last winter
in the consolation game. I am willing to bet the crowd will be a bit
bigger when they play tomorrow night in the late contest. This is going to
be another excellent game but I do feel that Solon has an advantage here.
However, with the players that Pella Christian has, they are definitely going to
be tough to beat. It should be another huge contest headlined by great
players and excellent athletes.
Update - Thursday, March 12th @ 3:39 PM
Wow. Can anyone name a better basketball game played at the
State tournament? In double overtime, Trevor Wolterstorff hits a three to
tie the game. Possibly a third overtime? Not with Iowa's version of
Mr. Big Shot as Matt Morrison drains a three that could cement the Spartans as
the Class 2A State champions. Morrison ends the game with 34 points and
the game winner against the two time defending State champions. I expected
a great game, but this was even better.
Update - Thursday, March 12th @ 3:14 PM
Overtime! If an amazing game couldn't get any better, Solon
and Hull Western will be playing the next four minutes with the championship on
the line. As mentioned earlier, Matt Morrison has proven why he is flat
out a winner and goes into the overtime period with 29 points. Ben
Bergman, Morrison, and Tucker Wentzien all have four fouls so they have to be a
little cautious defensively. Losing any one of the three will be a major
blow to the Spartans.
Update - Thursday, March 12th @ 2:57 PM
Matt Morrison knows that Hull Western Christian may be the toughest
test for Solon to win the State title. He has thrown the Spartans on his
back during the third quarter and dominated with his all around play. At
the end of the third quarter, he leads both teams in scoring at 22 points and
has willed Solon to a five point deficit. One interesting thing to keep an
eye out that could hurt Solon is both Morrison and Tucket Wentizen have three
fouls. Could that come back and haunt them?
Update [/URL]- Thursday, March 12th @
2:45 PM
Ranking the Class 4A State tournament teams:
1.) Ames
2.) Linn-Mar
3.) Bettendorf
4.) Johnston
5.) Sioux City East
6.) Urbandale
7.) Cedar Falls
8.) Iowa City West
A few thoughts on these rankings:
There was no doubt that Ames appeared to play the best game. But what
needs to be mentioned is how well Linn-Mar played. The Lions have a huge
chip on their shoulder with Nate Hutcheson in street clothes on the bench and
they played like it in their victory over Cedar Falls. They did an
excellent job overall and showed why they have been among the top teams in Class
4A over the last six years.
The question that I was asked a lot is can the winner of Linn-Mar/Bettendorf
play with Ames (assuming that they are able to get past Johnston). What I
realized in talking with some of the players from Ames is that they are not
happy with their game yesterday. They have two more contests to win and
won't relax until that happens. It is amazing how focused the players and
coaches are for the Little Cyclones. Combine that with their ultra
talented team and there is little doubt that they remain the heavy favorites.
Bettendorf and Linn-Mar are very good but do they have the horses to play with
Ames for thirty two minutes? That has given team fits all season and that
is why they are undefeated at this point. With Hutcheson, the Lions may
have been able to play with them. With him on the bench, I feel that Ames
has the motivation and talent level to win it all. Plus Harrison Barnes
will not be saddled with foul trouble on Friday. You can bet on that.
Update - Thursday, March 12th @ 2:36 PM
The Solon vs. Hull Western game has been a tale of two different games it
seems. Solon started the game off extremely well and showed why they were
rated #1 for a good portion of the season. Then late in the first quarter
and throughout the second quarter the Wolfpack went crazy from behind the arc as
they have nailed seven of their twelve attempts. Hull Western is up 41-27
and have made 50% of their shots compared to the 31% of the shots that the
Spartans have made.
For the second half, there is no way that Hull Western can shoot that well
from behind the arc. But because they shot so well, will they be content
in attempting a number from behind the arc? If they do that, there is no
doubt that Solon will make this a very good game. With the way that they
started this ball game, it is obvious that they can play with the defending
champions. This really should be quite the second half!
Update - Thursday, March 12th @ 2:25 PM
The two time defending champions from Hull Western Christian are shooting
lights out from behind the perimeter today. They have six of their eight
attempts. No way the Wolfpack can keep that shooting up but it certainly
has helped them in their showdown with undefeated Solon in the Class 2A
semifinals. At last count, they were up 36-21 midway through the second
quarter.
Update [/URL]- Wednesday, March 11th @
8:10 PM
Audio from Bettendorf defeating Sioux City East:
Audio:
George
Dexter Interview
Audio: Jeff
Vanderloo Interview
Audio:
Jordan Gentry Interview
Audio:
Kevin Skillett Interview
Audio:
Nolan Murray Interview
Audio: Seth
VanDeest Interview
Postgame thoughts: There is no doubt that Bettendorf knows how
to win ball games. It may be ugly but they have what it takes to get
victories. They were able to do that tonight in the fourth Class 4A
quarterfinal against Sioux City East. The Bulldogs earned a lead in the
second half and were able to sustain it through many rallies by the lower seeded
Black Raiders. The two headed post monster of Seth VanDeest and George
Dexter were key for Bettendorf throughout. They combined for thirty one
points overall.
Update [/URL]- Wednesday, March 11th
@ 8:10 PM
Audio from today's Linn-Mar victory over Cedar Falls:
Audio:
Andrew
Wirth Interview
Audio: Drew
Crawford Interview
Audio:
James Harrington Interview
Audio:
Marcus Paige Interview
Audio: Zach
Bohannon Interview
Postgame thoughts: Even with Nate Hutcheson not in the game,
Linn-Mar played inspired basketball and able to win their sixth straight State
quarterfinal game. That says a lot about the Lions and their program.
Cedar Falls, who had defeated Linn-Mar just weeks ago, struggled to slow them
down defensively as the Lions hit 57% of their shots from the field.
Seniors Drew Crawford and Zach Bohannon both had big games in their final State
tournament as they combined to score 31 points.
Update [/URL]- Wednesday, March 11th @
5:15 PM
Audio from Urbandale's narrow victory Johnston, 43-37.
Audio:
Bobby
Sandquist Interview
Audio: Brad
Bjorkgren Interview
Audio:
Corey Schaefer Interview
Audio: Nick
Smith Interview
Postgame thoughts: It wasn't pretty but the defensive intensity to
hold a good Urbandale team to only 25% shooting from the floor was enough to
help them to a first round State tournament win. The Dragons avenged two
regular season losses to the J-Hawks and outscored them by a 16-4 margin in the
fourth quarter. This game was a very physical Class 4A match up were both
teams were going hard inside. Justin Amick and Nick Smith led Johnston
with 12 points each and Tyler Lange of Urbandale matched that number as well.
Update [/URL]- Wednesday, March 11th @
3:18 PM
Here are our audio interviews from the Class 4A State tournament opener.
Ames outlasted Iowa City West in this contest:
Audio:
Bubu Palo
Interview
Audio: Doug
McDermott Interview
Audio: Nick
Wilson Interview
Audio:
Steve Bergman Interview
Audio:
Tayler Bontrager Interview
Audio:
Vance Downs Interview
Postgame thoughts: The ability of Ames to get easy shots paid off
in this opener to the Class 4A State tournament. With Harrison Barnes
plagued with first half foul trouble, Doug McDermott took advantage of his
opportunities inside and dominated with 22 points and 11 rebounds. This
junior did not miss a shot from the floor as he was 10 of 10. Iowa City
West did what they could to slow the game down and to get great shots but the
Little Cyclones came out strong in their eventual 69-42 win. Ames ended up
scoring 50 of those points inside the paint, which makes it tough to beat
anyone.
Update - Wednesday, March 11th @ 2:23 PM
A few things about the first half in the first Class 4A game of the day.
Ames leads Iowa City West by a score of 32-18. It should come as no
surprise that Iowa City West has slowed the pace and it focusing on taking very
good shots. They don't want to get into a shootout with the Little
Cyclones and they obviously know better than this.
I was one excited about Harrison Barnes playing at State and unfortunately
the refs saddled him with two fouls. I am trying not to be a homer for any
player but the second foul was a bad call. The first one he reached in on
and deserved the call. His stat line goes like this for the first half: 1
of 2 shooting from the field | 2 of 2 from the free throw line | 2 rebounds | 4
points | 1 block | 6 minutes
Update [/URL]- Wednesday, March
11th @ 2:15 PM
Class 3A first round All Tournament team:
Alex Dorr - Norwalk (MVP)
Zach McCabe - Heelan
Blake Haluska - Carroll
Brennan Cougill - Heelan
Jacob Schaben - Harlan
Update [/URL]- Wednesday,
March 11th @ 2:15 PM
Ranking the Class 3A teams:
1.) Norwalk
2.) Sioux City Heelan
3.) Carroll
4.) Harlan
5.) Marion
6.) Benton
7.) Dubuque Wahlert
8.) New Hampton
Update [/URL]- Wednesday, March 11th @
2:00 PM
Here are our audio interviews from the final Class 3A game in which
Harlan was able to defeat Benton:
Audio:
Jeff
Hastert Interview
Audio:
Larry Carlson Interview
Audio: Luke
Lansman Interview
Audio:
Michael Kaufmann Interview
Audio:
Mitch Osborn Interview
Audio: Zach
Twedt Interview
Postgame thoughts: It may not have been pretty but Harlan
knows how to win games at the State tournament. They showed that they
could do it by using a variety of defenses that included a box and one as well
as a triangle and two to slow down the top two scorers for the Bobcats.
Again, this was not a pretty win but the Cyclones were able to pull out a hard
fought victory, 49-40. They held Benton leading scorer Levi Montague to
two points as he only attempted two shots on the game.
Update [/URL]- Wednesday, March 11th @ 11:04 AM
Here is my Class 2A All Tournament team thus far:
Trevor Wolterstorff - Hull Western Christian (MVP)
Joey Flattery - St. Edmond
John Engler - St. Edmond
Tucker Wentzien - Solon
Cliff Warner - Pella Christian
Jake Shipley - West Marshall
Update[/URL] - Wednesday, March 11th @ 11:02 AM
It may be late but here is my rankings of the Class 2A teams at the State
tournament:
1.) Solon
2.) Hull Western Christian
3.) Pella Christian
4.) St. Edmond
5.) St. Albert
6.) West Marshall
7.) Sumner-Fredricksburg
8.) Central Lee
Update - Wednesday, March 11th @ 10:50 AM
There is a ton of news I have been meaning to talk about over the
last day and finally have a few minutes to do so.
First, Nate Hutcheson and Linn-Mar. The Lions obviously have
suspended this talented senior for the rest of the season. It is not a one
or a two game suspension. He is done for the year. Considering I
predicted the Lions winning the title, there is a slim chance of that happening
now. I love the talented team that they will still be playing but it will
be very, very difficult to see them getting past both Bettendorf and Ames.
I feel that Ames is at an even bigger advantage now then they were previously.
If I had to re-do the picks with this knowledge, I would guess that the Lions
rally to get past Cedar Falls in the first round, lose to Bettendorf, and find a
way to defeat Urbandale in the consolation game. Ames is able to get past
a solid Bettendorf club in the title game and finish the year undefeated.
Without Hutcheson, I don't think any team has the talent to defeat Ames unless
they choke in a big way under the lights.
I have received about a thousand questions where basketball players are going
but outside of the ones that signed in the fall, most will still be waiting a
few weeks before announcing their college decisions. One player who did
make a final call on his college future is ADM athlete Wes Nordquist. I
talked to him for about a minute last night and he said that he will be going to
Buena Vista. I am not 100% sure if he will be playing both football and
basketball or just basketball but Nordquist passed up Division II interest for
football and basketball. I have a feeling he is going to be a monster in
the Iowa Conference. The majority of other kids looking at the Iowa
Conference are undecided and still waiting for that hopeful dream offer.
Two things that I did hear related to official visits is Mitchell Murphy of
Crestwood taking a trip to Southwest Minnesota State and Mount Vernon bigman
Eric Olson setting up a journey to Minnesota State Mankato.
On the Mr. Basketball front, as much as I think he deserved the
award during the regular season, the performance that Eric May of Dubuque
Wahlert had in the first round likely puts him out of competition. For the
Iowa Preps version of the award, I think it comes down to Trevor Wolterstorff of
Hull Western Christian, Brennan Cougill of Heelan, and Harrison Barnes of Ames.
You might as well put Cougill down as a lock for the award with the AP voters.
Update [/URL]- Wednesday, March 11th @
10:35 AM
Here are our audio interviews from Norwalk defeating Dubuque
Wahlert in
the first round of the State tournament:
Audio:
Alex Dorr
Interview
Audio:
Chris
Larson Interview
Audio:
Eric May
Interview
Audio:
Jacob
Petersen Interview
Audio:
Jarod
Stogdill Interview
Audio:
Matt
Dermody Interview
Audio:
Tom English
Interview
Postgame thoughts: Was it the stingy defense of Norwalk or the
rough shooting from Wahlert that was the difference in this game? The
defending champs struggled mightily from the field as Eric May went 1 for 11
from behind the three point arc. Norwalk did an excellent job defending
him as they had Alex Dorr and Matt Dermody both switching out on him at times.
With their lengthy frames, both did a nice job slowing down this future Iowa
Hawkeye. There is no doubt that the Warriors are a club to keep an eye on
for the State title. They played well enough in this game that they have a
definite shot to win it all.
Update [/URL]- Tuesday, March 10th @ 8:30
PM
Here are our audio interviews from Carroll's win against Marion in
the first round of the State tournament:
Audio:
Amry Shelby
Interview
Audio:
Blake Haluska Interview
Audio:
Casey Kausperbauer Interview
Audio:
Craig Douma Interview
Audio:
Kasey Semler Interview
Audio: Mike
Manderscheid Interview
Postgame thoughts: In one of the better overall games at the State
basketball tournament, Carroll narrowly avoided a major upset by Marion to move
into the Class 3A semifinals. The Indians were able to steal the ball down
by one before the buzzer and get a great shot but could not connect. The
Tigers used a balanced attack scoring while the Indians were led once again by
the stellar play of Amry Shelby. This All Stater looked to be the best
player on the court tonight but that wasn't enough for their team to advance.
Update [/URL]- Tuesday, March 10th @ 5:55
PM
Here are our audio interviews from Sioux City Heelan defeating New Hampton in
the first round of the State tournament:
Audio:
Brennan
Cougill Interview
Audio: John
Joachim Interview
Audio:
Jordan Moore Interview
Audio:
Tanner Ferguson Interview
Audio: Zach
McCabe Interview
Postgame thoughts: The performance that Sioux City Heelan put on in
this first round game showed that they mean business for the State title.
The Crusaders were dominant throughout the course of the victory and proved to
be a tough opponent to defeat. Both Brennan Cougill and Zach McCabe were
impressive in all facets of the game and showcased the skills at a State wide
level. After struggling last year in the opening game at State, Heelan
looked tough. New Hampton was able to play at the high level that helped
them journey to Des Moines.
Update - Tuesday, March 10th @ 3:56 PM
It seems like at the Class 3A and 4A levels, the #1 vs. #8 seeds
end up getting ugly early and often. That is the case right now as Heelan
is up 28-8 with 2:44 left in the second quarter. For those curious, Jordan
Moore of New Hampton has ALL eight of their points.
Update [/URL]- Tuesday, March 10th @ 3:44 PM
Here are our audio interviews from Pella Christian's victory over
Sumner-Fredricksburg:
Audio:
Cliff
Warner Interview
Audio: Eli
Groenendyk Interview
Audio: Jim
Stewart Interview
Audio: Jon
Holwerda Interview
Audio:
Larry Hessing Interview
Audio:
Trevor Harris Interview
Postgame thoughts: As talked about a little bit during the game,
Sumner-Fredricksburg had a heck of a season but they were no match for Pella
Christian. The Eagles are a senior laden team who knows what it takes to
play at the State tournament. They showed that and dominated on their way
to a 77-46 victory. There is no doubt that Pella Christian is in the mix
for the Class 2A State title and they will get a chance to show their skills
against St. Edmond in the next round.
Update - Tuesday, March 10th @ 2:20 PM
Pella Christian takes a 32-17 lead with 3:28 left in the second
quarter. Sumner-Fredricksburg is a solid team and they have had a great
season. But this Pella Christian club is focused on winning a lot of games
down here and they are playing like it.
Update [/URL]- Tuesday, March 10th @ 2:05
PM
Here are the postgame interviews from St. Edmond's overtime victory
against St. Albert
Audio: Adolph Kochendorfer Interview
Audio: Andrew Brown Interview
Audio: Dale Scott Interview
Audio: Jake Anderson Interview
Audio: Jake Waters Interview
Audio: John Engler Interview
Postgame thoughts: This is no offense to St. Edmond but I think St. Albert
looked like the better team on the court today. They seemed to play harder
throughout and made it a game despite coming in as the #2 seed. But the
difference in the game throughout was that the Gaels have proven time and time
again that they know how to win at the State tournament. Their senior
class was vital to the runner up finish a season ago and it showed in this
battle.
Update - Tuesday, March 10th @ 12:35 PM
Great first half of basketball as St. Albert takes a 34-32 lead
going into halftime. I have to give the Falcons credit as the first team I
remember having two players from the same team dive on the floor for a loose
ball. That included 7-footer Jake Anderson.
Update - Tuesday, March 10th @ 12:20 PM
After I wrote about St. Albert not winning, they went on a run to
finish the first quarter 20-13. These are two quality ball clubs and I
love this type of game.
Update - Tuesday, March 10th @ 12:13 PM
I am not sure if they will win but I really do enjoy liking this St. Albert
team play. They have a lot of great athletes, really push the pace, and
they all play hard. Having a 7-footer inside is a key to their press as
they can use the athletes to run and jump their opponents.
St. Edmond may not be pretty but they are smart and know how to play
basketball. Playing for Coach K makes you almost have a great basketball
IQ.
Update - Tuesday, March 10th @ 11:53 AM
One of the most interesting rumors regarding athletes is Nate Hutcheson of
Linn-Mar. The rumor regards if he will be able to play on Wendesday
because of an off the court incident. The Cedar Rapids media has already
run with the story and made it clear that something is up. If you want to
learn more about it, check their sites. From the sound of things,
Hutcheson will be playing against Cedar Falls. That obviously could change
but the weekend before State is never a good time to have anything to do with a
party.
Update - Tuesday, March 10th @ 11:52 AM
Breaking down the games today, here is what we have for the five games being
played on Tuesday:
Class 2A
St. Edmond vs. St. Albert
Pella Christian vs. Sumner-Fredricksburg
Class 3A
Sioux City Heelan vs. New Hampton
Marion vs. Carroll
Harlan vs. Benton
Norwalk vs. Dubuque Wahlert
If I had to pick a best game now? I would go with the finale
in Norwalk vs. Wahlert. Norwalk definitely has enough talent to beat
Wahlert but they have Eric May. He may not have the cast around him but
May is that good that he could throw the team on his back.
Update [/URL]- Monday, March 9th @ 10:00
PM
Here are the postgame interviews from Hull Western Christian's
victory over West Marshall
Audio: David Shipley
Interview
Audio: Jake Shipley
Interview
Audio: Jim Eekhoff
Interview
Audio: Jordan Vogel
Interview
Audio: Shawn Keizer
Interview
Audio: Trevor Wolterstorff
Interview
Postgame thoughts: There is no doubt that I have to give West Marshall
credit. After being blown out by Hull Western Christian, they proved that
they can play with the two time defending champions. They relished the
opportunity and it showed as they dominated throughout the first quarter.
The Wolfpack came out slow but showed the heart of a champion by coming back
during the second quarter and on. There is little doubt that this club is
looking forward to their matchup with Solon in the semifinals.
Update - Monday, March 9th @ 8:48 PM
Thought it might be time for an update? Sorry about that.
One thing that happens during the State tournament is I get stir crazy if I sit
on press row the entire time. What that means it the blog is not updated
as much as it should be because I am sitting somewhere else.
First off, Solon looked extremely impressive in the first round
game. From the Spartans, it was obvious the Spartans were going to win by
a lopsided margin. This is not taking anything away from Central Lee
because they have been doing that all year to their opponents.
In the current game, West Marshall started out on fire but the
champion mentality of Hull Western Christian really showed during the second
quarter. The Wolfpack is currently winning 36-27 at halftime.
What do you expect to be on TV in the press room at the start of
the Hull Western game? The actual basketball game? No, they were
watching Dancing with the Stars. The reason is because of Shawn Johnson
but I still found it funny. Apparently people in the room thought she did
well.
Update [/URL]- Monday, March 9th @ 8:30 PM
Here are the postgame interviews from Solon's dominating win over
Central Lee
Audio: Ben Bergman
Interview
Audio: Brad Randall
Interview
Audio: Brad Vogel
Interview
Audio: Brett Azinger
Interview
Audio: Clay Vass
Interview
Audio: Matt Morrison
Interview
Audio: Trevor Pezley
Interview
Audio: Tucker Wentzien
Interview
Postgame thoughts: Solon proved that their hopeful run to a State title was
not going to end in the first round. The Spartans gave it their all and
put it on Central Lee in an impressive 82-44. Their press was clicking
from the start. Throw in the fact that Matt Morrison, Tucker Wentizen, and
Ben Bergman all had huge nights the Solon showed why they went undefeated
throughout the regular season. This club is serious about the State title
and it is obvious that they are going to take no prisoners along the way.
Update [/URL]- Monday, March 9th @ 5:30
Here are the postgame interviews from Rock Valley's victory against
Villisca
Audio: Eli Cordon
Interview
Audio: Heath Swanson
Interview
Audio: Jim Obermeier
Interview
Audio: Jordan Dykstra
Interview
Audio: Marcus Heemstra
Interview
Audio: Ryan Focht
Interview
Postgame thoughts: What more can I say that the 77-49 scoreboard doesn't
already? Rock Valley is dominant and it showed in this content. They
were hitting on all cylinders and remains the favorite to win the Class 1A
title. They just pounded Villisca and forced them into 26 overall
turnovers. There really is not much to say other than the Rockets are an
amazing Class 1A ball club.
Update [/URL]- Monday,
March 9th @ 4:55 PM - My current Class 1A All Tournament Team
Again, with the first round being done for the most part, I thought I would
put together my Class 1A All Tournament team. Things can still change but
here is who I feel would get this honor if the tournament ended after the first
round:
Jordan Dykstra - Rock Valley (MVP)
Jesse Ney - IMS
Zach Van Engen - Rock Valley
Tyler Betz - Ventura
Adam Woodin - Laurens-Marathon
Others to keep an eye on:
Marcus Heemstra - Rock Valley
Eddie Diemer - NU High
Ryan Focht - Villisca
Update [/URL]- Monday, March 9th @
4:51 PM
- Class 1A Team Ranking
After having all eight teams play today in the Class 1A ranks, I
thought it would be a great time to rank them 1-8. Here are my thoughts:
1.) Rock Valley - This one is not even close. Rock Valley
played amazing today.
2.) Iowa Mennonite - There is little doubt that IMS has the best shot right now
of beating Rock Valley.
3.) NU High - The Panthers are definitely a player in potentially winning their
second straight State title.
4.) Adair-Casey - This team is talented and unfortunately the #1 seed helped
them very little. Thanks seeding process.
5.) Laurens-Marathon - Their defensive pressure helped them get a first round
win.
6.) Ventura - Tyler Betz is a force but few others stepped up around him.
7.) Burlington Notre Dame - They have struggled at State the past two years for
whatever reason.
8.) Villisca - Not sure if it was them not playing well or Rock Valley being
that good. I guess we'll find out this week.
Update - Monday, March 9th @ 4:46 PM
Rock Valley pulled their starters with 6:31 left and a 72-35
lead. I honestly think the refs were making sure it was time to pull those
starters by giving Villisca some favorable calls. As a former bench player
in high school myself, these players deserve to see the court.
Update - Monday, March 9th @ 4:43 PM
Well my hopes/guesses turned out to be wrong. Up 68-33 going
into the fourth quarter, Heemstra and Dykstra are both checking back in. I
don't want anything bad to happen to them but what exactly good can come out of
this?
Update - Monday, March 9th @ 4:41 PM
My guess (or hope) is that Rock Valley calls off the dogs in the
fourth quarter. Jordan Dykstra is still in with 1:04 left in the third
quarter and the score at 67-29.
Update - Monday, March 9th @ 4:33 PM
I have a new concept that the last few State tournaments have led
me to believe happens frequently. It is the semifinal tournament hangover.
The perfect example of this happening where Wahlert destroyed Heelan in the
first round of the State tournament. They were hitting on all cylinders
and would have beat just about anyone that they played. Because they
played so well, there is no doubt that they would play much worse in the next
game. With Forest City being an amazing team but not as hyped up as the
Crusaders, Wahlert struggled through a win and had the semifinal hangover.
They won but it wasn't pretty.
The reason why I bring this up is because while Rock Valley is a
heck of a ball club, I have a good feeling that they will have a semifinal
hangover against IMS. I think it will be very hard to beat an experienced
club like that so badly at State, regardless of how well they are playing.
Then again, two of my final four teams already lost so who knows what I am
talking about.
Update - Monday, March 9th @ 4:22 PM
Going into the final Class 1A game of the day, I was unsure who exactly was
the best team. Rock Valley answered that question with an exclamation
point as they have exploded for 54 points and currently hold a thirty point
lead. It doesn't matter what they do in the second half, my decision to
pick them as champions is still something I feel even more confident (even if my
predictions were like the plague for the first two games this morning).
So how do you stop Rock Valley? I would say the first thing you have to
do is get either Marcus Heemstra of Jordan Dykstra in foul trouble. If you
take one piece of the two headed monster out of the game, it will be harder for
them to use their length. The opposition must also find a way to force
their pace and not the press and hectic play of Rock Valley dictate how the game
goes. It certainly is not going to be.
I just got the stats and Villisca had 22 turnovers in the first half.
That allowed Rock Valley to attempt nineteen more shots.
Update - Monday, March 9th @ 3:53 PM
One of the things that Marcus Heemstra of Rock Valley talked about before
their game against Villisca was making them play at their pace. With 2:46
in the first quarter, Rock Valley has already scored 21 points and is really
pushing the pace. This squad is talented.
Update [/URL]- Monday, March 9th @ 3:40 PM
Here are the postgame interviews from IMS's victory over Ventura in the third
Class 1A quarterfinal:
Audio: Dean Berhow-Goll
Interview
Audio: Dwight Gingerich
Interview
Audio: Ethan Gingerich
Interview
Audio: Jesse Ney
Interview
Audio: Ryan Eastvold
Interview
Audio: Tyler Betz
Interview
Postgame thoughts: While Tyler Betz was a force inside for Ventura, IMS was
the better team and it showed in their 62-46 win. Betz battled and scored
26 points before fouling out but was out dueled by the 27 points Jesse Ney of
IMS scored. This senior said specifically he wants Rock Valley in the
semifinals (as you can hear on the audio). Obviously he is not backing
down from a challenge of two of the best bigs in the entire State, regardless of
class.
Update - Monday, March 9th @ 2:23 PM
Momentum changer? Ventura hits a deep three at the end of the second
quarter to pull the score to 32-26. This really is a big shot considering
they now have the momentum on their side.
Update - Monday, March 9th @ 2:18 PM
Jesse Ney of IMS is probably the best individual player that I have seen so
far today. His versatility makes him such a tough matchup against anyone,
especially at the Class 1A level.
Update - Monday, March 9th @ 2:11 PM
Going back to my original predictions, I am currently sitting at 0-2. I
would stop doing them but why would I want to stop providing such great bulletin
board material for teams?
IMS is leading at the end of the first quarter 17-9. They look very
impressive thus far and appear to have the talent to move on. Ventura
obviously will make a charge but IMS is good.
Update [/URL]- Monday, March 9th @ 2:05 PM
Here are the postgame interviews from Laurens-Marathon and their win over
Burlington Notre Dame:
Audio: Adam Woodin
Interview
Audio: Andrew Schilling
Interview
Audio: Matt Winter
Interview
Audio: Ryan Rump
Interview
Audio: Ryan Stumbo
Interview
Postgame thoughts: The senior leadership of Laurens-Marathon showed today on
the basketball court. They ended up playing like the team that had made a
run to the State tournament before. Burlington Notre Dame, who struggled
last year here, repeated the feat. After getting up in the first quarter,
they struggled while shooting 28% from the floor, 13% from behind the three
point arc, and 57% from the free throw line. Laurens-Marathon played well
defensively but it came down to them just struggling to put the ball in the
hole.
Update - Monday, March 9th @ 12:45 PM
At halftime, Laurens-Marathon is up over Burlington Notre Dame 19-18.
This is a sloppy game that I would expect from two squads new to the State
tournament. However, this is how Burlington Notre Dame played a season ago
in Des Moines and they are sloppy this time around again. I would expect
both teams to be more comfortable in the second half of we will be watching a
game where both teams fail to score over forty points each.
Update - Monday, March 9th @ 12:35 PM
Sorry for the lack of update. I spent so much time trying to work on
the previous game that I usually don't get a chance to pay much attention to the
current game. And if I want to do postgame interviews, there really is not
much that I can do about that.
As for the game, it was a sloppy first quarter with Burlington Notre Dame
having a slight edge. Laurens-Marathon has come back in the second quarter
and now boasts a 13-11 lead with 5:20 left in the game.
Update [/URL]- Monday, March 9th @ 12:15
PM
Here are the postgame interviews from NU High's win over Adair-Casey.
Audio: Eddie Diemer
Interview
Audio: Johnny Hines
Interview
Audio: Josh Harris
Interview
Audio: Mark Emgarten
Interview
Audio: Paul Elser
Interview
Audio: Tanner Cooke
Interview
Audio: Zack Leeper
Interview
Postgame thoughts: For the third time in four years, the #1 seed is done in
the Class 1A field. This is a perfect example why the seeding process
needs to be changed. Adair-Casey is a talented team but they ran into an NU High
team that played a loaded schedule, has tough players, and has State tournament
experience. Their run in the first quarter proved to be too much in the
end as they won their fourth State tournament game in two years.
Update - Monday, March 9th @ 11:48 AM
There goes my chances of a perfect Class 1A tournament. I should have
went with my gut here but I guess I'll pay for that.
Update - Monday, March 9th @ 11:47 AM
Adair-Casey does a nice job defensively to get a 10 second call but misses a
wide open three pointer. NU High sinks both free throws to go up 56-50.
Update - Monday, March 9th @ 11:45 AM
With 30.4 seconds left, NU High is up 54-50. Adair-Casey air balled a
three pointer but Josh Harris rebounded the ball and scored. The Panthers
called a timeout following an attempt to get the ball in.
Update - Monday, March 9th @ 11:39 AM
If NU High can make their free throws, they will win the game. They are
currently up 51-44 with 1:50 left in the game and have made four straight free
throws.
Update - Monday, March 9th @ 11:35 AM
NU High has pressured Zack Leeper all game and covered him full court.
Win or loss, he will be out of energy by the end of the game. They have
thrown some outstanding athletes to slow him down and for the most part, it does
appear that they have tired him. He currently has thirteen points.
Update - Monday, March 9th @ 11:33 AM
Down by four, the refs call a charge on a potential and one for Adair-Casey
that could have cut the lead to one. This already has the looks of being a
sloppy game down the stretch over the last 3:44 of the game. Right now, NU
High is up 45-41.
Update - Monday, March 9th @ 11:28 AM
Up by seven with five minutes left to go, it appears as if NU High has gone
somewhat conservative. It will be interesting to see how this goes and if
they continue slowing things down and playing away from their strength.
Update - Monday, March 9th @ 11:22 AM
At the end of the third quarter, NU High leads 42-33 over undefeated
Adair-Casey. Both teams have had momentum swing in their direction over
the last few minutes but the Panthers were able to continue to lead. They
also were able to get some of their key players a rest at the end of the
quarter. That could really help them down the stretch.
Update - Monday, March 9th @ 11:20 AM
With four scorers averaging above five points per game, NU High is backing off
of the fifth athlete on the court in order to shut down Zack Leeper. That
has forced Josh Harris to be more aggressive offensively and as he currently has
eight points.
Update - Monday, March 9th @ 11:15 AM
Welcome to the 2009 State Tournament blog. This is my first entry of what
will hopefully be a number over the next few days. Anyways, there is 3:52
left in the third quarter and NU High is beating Adair-Casey 37-26. While
this would be considered an update in terms of seeds, I still believe the
majority of readers of this site felt that the Panthers would move on with a win
here. I will have more updates throughout the game.
2008-2009 Substate & District Basketball
Previews[/URL]
These substate and district previews were finished before the postseason
began.
Class 4A[/URL]
Substate 1
Substate 2
Substate 3
Substate 4
Substate 5
Substate 6
Substate 7
Substate 8
Substate
Final Preview & Predictions
Substate Semifinal Preview & Predictions
State Tournament Picks
4A Game
Predictions
4A First Round State Preview
4A Early State Tournament Thoughts
Class 3A[/URL]
Substate 1
Substate 2
Substate 3
Substate 4
Substate 5
Substate 6
Substate 7
Substate 8
Substate
Final Preview & Predictions
State Tournament Picks
3A Game Predictions
Class 3A First Round State Preview
Class 3A Early State Tournament Thoughts
Class 2A[/URL]
District 1
District 2
District 3
District 4
District 5
District 6
District 7
District 8
District 9
District 10
District 11
District 12
District 13
District 14
District 15
District 16
Substate
Final Preview & Predictions
State Tournament Picks
2A Game Predictions
Class 2A First Round State Preview
Class 2A Early State Tournament Thoughts
Class 1A[/URL]
District 1
District 2
District 3
District 4
District 5
District 6
District 7
District 8
District 9
District 10
District 11
District 12
District 13
District 14
District 15
District 16
State Tournament Picks
1A Game Predictions
Class 1A First Round State Preview
Class 1A Early State Tournament Thoughts
Preseason [/URL]Conference Previews
Big East
Bluegrass
Cedar Valley
CIML Central
CIML Iowa
CIML Metro
Corn Bowl
Cornbelt East
Cornbelt West
Corner
Hawkeye Ten
Heart of Iowa Large
Heart of Iowa Small
Iowa Star
Lakes
Little Hawkeye
MAC
MRC
MVC Mississippi
MVC Valley
North Central
North Iowa
North Iowa Cedar East
North Iowa Cedar West
Northeast Iowa
Northwest
Pride of Iowa
Raccoon River
Rolling Hills
SEISC North
SEISC South
Siouxland
South Central
South Iowa Cedar
Southeast
Tri-Rivers
Twin Lakes
Upper Iowa
WaMac East
WaMac West
War Eagle
West Central
Western Iowa
Western Valley North
Western Valley South
Preseason [/URL]All State Teams
4A All State
3A All State
2A All State
1A All State
Elite All State First Team
Elite All State Second Team
Elite All State Third Team
Elite All State Fourth Team
Elite All State Fifth Team
Junior All State First Team
Junior All State Second Team
Junior All State Third Team
Junior All State Fourth Team
Junior All State Fifth Team
Sophomore All State First Team
Sophomore All State Second Team
Sophomore All State Third Team
Sophomore All State Fourth Team
Sophomore All State Fifth Team
Freshmen All State First Team
Freshmen All State Second Team
Preseason [/URL]2008-2009 Mr. Basketball
Candidates
Candidate #1
Candidate #2
Candidate #3
Candidate #4
Candidate #5
Candidate #6
Candidate #7
Candidate #8
Candidate #9
Candidate #10
Preseason Rankings [/URL](Adjustments made
on 10/6/2008)
Class 4A
Class 3A
Class 2A
Class 1A
Early Substate Thoughts & Predictions[/URL]
Class 4A
Class 3A
Class 2A
Class 1A
AAU Summer Recaps[/URL]
Martin Bros.
All Iowa Attack
Spring AAU Team Profiles[/URL]
Martin Bros. 17s
Martin Bros. 16s
All Iowa Attack 17s
All Iowa Attack 16s
Iowa Barnstormers Black
Iowa Cornsharks
Northwest Iowa Select
Triple Threat Hoops
Championship Rankings (1999-2008)[/URL]
Class 4A
Class 3A
Class 2A
Class 1A
Top Coaching Positions by Class[/URL]
Class 4A
Class 3A
Class 2A
Class 1A
Pre-Preseason Rankings[/URL]
Class 4A Top 10
Class 3A Top 10
Class 2A Top 10
Class 1A Top 10
This post was edited on 4/16 11:34 PM by LukeFeddersen
This post was edited on 4/27 1:59 PM by LukeFeddersen
This post was edited on 4/27 2:09 PM by LukeFeddersen