Come see the Huskies take on Harvard Wednesday night at 7 p.m.
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Sunday, December 7, 2008
Huskies End Skid, Beat JMU
On Saturday, the Huskies met with James Madison for the first and last time in the regular season.
The Huskies, coming in having lost three straight games, were hungry for a win. Saturday was a big day on the James Madison campus, as their #1 ranked football team was playing in the quarterfinal round of the NCAA Football Championship Subdivision against #6 Villanova. Therefore, the basketball game was played at 11 a.m., making it a full day of sports in Harrisonburg.
It was a very serious mood during the trip. The team seemed to be very anxious to play. Everyone was up earlier for meals and arrived earlier for film, which set the tone for Saturday.
Before the game coach Coen told the team that half of the teams in the conference would be 1-0 and the other would be 0-1 at the end of the day. Being in first place for a month would be something that would be very good for the Huskies. Coen also decided to shake things up. Neither Nkem Ojougboh or Manny Adako started, Matt Smith and Vinny Lima got the nod.
In the first half, the Huskies and Dukes played closely, with the Huskies led 16-13 with under 6:00 to play. Aided by two Matt Smith three-pointers, the Huskies went on a 13-3 run to close out the half, leading 29-16.
With 14:24 left to play, the Huskies held their largest lead, 18, 39-21. But the Dukes would not go away. In the next four minutes, the Huskies did not score, and the Huskies lead was cut to 41-38 with 10:11 remaining. The Dukes, led by Kyle Swanston’s 18 point performance, took the lead 47-46 with 5:09 left.
Chaisson Allen had his best game of the year, by far. He simply would not let the Huskies lose. After a layup plus the foul, the Huskies reclaimed the lead and would not lose it. Allen finished with 17 points, 7 rebounds, 3 assists and 3 steals. Manny Adako also came through in the clutch for the Huskies. After Matt Janning, who finished with 13 points, missed the back end of his free throws, Adako grabbed the offensive rebound and banked in a layup, pushing the lead to 54-59.
With the Huskies up two, 54-52, Adako flexed his muscles once again. Allen threaded the needle to Adako, who scored 11 points and pulled down 5 rebounds, hit the layup plus the foul shot, giving the Huskies a 57-52 lead with 1:47 left. Nkem Ojougobh also got in on the action, hitting two free throws down the stretch, and blocking Devon Moore’s layup with 24.6 second left. After a Janning free throw, the Huskies escaped with a 60-55 win.
This was just what the doctor ordered for the Huskies. Yes they blew a big lead, but they did it on the road with under five minutes to play, and still came back and won. There was no panic, and the cooler heads prevailed. Coach Coen told the team in the locker room that good teams find ways to win, and the Huskies did so on Saturday afternoon. The Huskies improve to 4-4 and now 1-0 in the conference.
Finally, it was a pleasant trip back to Boston for everyone. The team was relieved to get back on the right track with a win. But everyone knows how much work is to be done. The players all spoke in the locker room and knew that this was the dog fight they needed to get back to their winning ways.
Northeastern will be off until Wednesday, when they travel to Harvard to take on the Crimson at 7 p.m.
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Huskies Fall to Rams, Lose Third Straight
Wednesday night the Huskies were defeated by the University of Rhode Island Rams. This is now the third loss in a row for the team, who now stand at 3-4 overall.
The Rams came out shooting, opening up to a 15 point lead with only 6:35 left to play in the first half. But the Huskies, sparked by Vinny Lima who finished with 14 points, went on a 23-5 run to close out the half and take the lead 42-39.
At halftime the team had all the momentum and seemed to go into the tunnel with a lot of energy. But the second half did not indicate that. The Rams went on a 16-0 run to start the second half and never looked back, beating the Huskies 85-72.
Matt Janning was once again held to single digits in scoring, with 8 points. Again, the Huskies did not win the battle of the boards and did not capitalize on the Rams 21 turnovers, while only turning the ball over 10 times themselves. The Northeastern bench, led by Vinny Lima and Allen Aragbaye, gave the Huskies a big lift with 28 points.
Tomorrow will be a travel day for the reeling Huskies, who will play James Madison on Saturday at 11 a.m. in what should be a raucous atmosphere. This will be the first CAA game for both teams. The Huskies are looking for answers, hopefully they find them in Virginia.
The Rams came out shooting, opening up to a 15 point lead with only 6:35 left to play in the first half. But the Huskies, sparked by Vinny Lima who finished with 14 points, went on a 23-5 run to close out the half and take the lead 42-39.
At halftime the team had all the momentum and seemed to go into the tunnel with a lot of energy. But the second half did not indicate that. The Rams went on a 16-0 run to start the second half and never looked back, beating the Huskies 85-72.
Matt Janning was once again held to single digits in scoring, with 8 points. Again, the Huskies did not win the battle of the boards and did not capitalize on the Rams 21 turnovers, while only turning the ball over 10 times themselves. The Northeastern bench, led by Vinny Lima and Allen Aragbaye, gave the Huskies a big lift with 28 points.
Tomorrow will be a travel day for the reeling Huskies, who will play James Madison on Saturday at 11 a.m. in what should be a raucous atmosphere. This will be the first CAA game for both teams. The Huskies are looking for answers, hopefully they find them in Virginia.
Saturday, November 29, 2008
Huskies Go Cold In Florida
The trip to Florida did not turn out the way the Huskies had planned, from beginning to end.
After arriving in the airport, the team loaded their bags on the bus. The only problem was, the battery on the bus was dead. So the Huskies were stuck in the parking lot of the Tampa Airport. The shoot around time was approaching fast, so the team got dressed and taped for practice right in the parking lot. About a half an hour later, the team was picked up by a small shuttle bus and taken to the Sun Dome. It was not the way they wanted to start their trip.
At the hotel, the atmosphere was great. The team was greeted by Chris Alvarez’s family. Alvarez, a native of Miami, FL was happy to be back in his home state and with his family. Everyone was excited to get back on the floor after Tuesday night’s loss, and the Huskies had a good shot of coming away with a victory.
For the Huskies, Saturday night was just one of those nights. Nothing could go in the basket for Northeastern, scoring only 11 points at the half on 13.8 percent shooting (4-29). But the Bulls only scored 22 themselves in the first half.
The second half was more of the same for the Huskies. Shots just simply would not fall, and the Huskies lost 55-37. Manny Adako scored 10 points, before fouling out, out, while Matt Janning scored only 3 points for the Huskies, who have now lost the last two games.
Head coach Bill Coen expressed to the team that these nights happen. He was extremely pleased with the defensive effort, but you just can’t explain shooting 24 percent for the game. The Huskies did what they wanted to do on defense, and the low scoring game suited their style, but they just could not score.
It does not get any easier for the Huskies, as the Rhode Island Rams come into Matthew’s Arena on Wednesday night. The Rams played the Duke Blue Devils down to the final possession at Cameron Indoor Stadium earlier this season, and just lost a close game tonight with Villanova. The Huskies will be glad to get home, hopefully the rims at Matthew’s Arena will be a little friendlier.
Thursday, November 27, 2008
Huskies Fall to Terriers
On Tuesday night, the Huskies fell hard to the BU Terriers.
The Terriers came out firing, with Corey Lowe bringing the biggest gun. Lowe started out hot, scoring 23 first half points. A Matt Janning fade away jump shot at the buzzer gave the Huskies a 40-39 lead at the half.
In the second half, it was Jake O’Brien’s turn to lead the charge. The Terriers scored on their first three possessions of the second half, with O’Brien scoring 5 of the 8 total points in the stretch. BU led 49-45 at the under 16:00 timeout. With 10:00 to go, the Terriers led 59-49, but the Huskies would not go away without a fight. They cut the lead to 62-57 at the under 8:00 timeout, but the Terriers were too hot to handle.
Aided by O’Brien’s 21 point half, the Terriers won 83-75 Tuesday night, handing the Huskies their second loss of the season (3-2). BU shot 57% from three in the second half, and tied a school record with 15 total three-pointers. Corey Lowe led the way with 27 points, followed by O’Brien with 21 and John Holland’s 17 points. Matt Janning scored 22 for the Huskies, while Chaisson Allen scored 14 points and grabbed 7 rebounds. Also, freshman Erik Etherly recorded his first collegiate points, hitting a one handed put back late in the second half.
If it was not something, it was something else on Tuesday night. Lowe scored 23 first half points, but only scored 4 second half points. Jake O’Brien scored 0 first half points, then scored 21 second half points. The Huskies just could not cool off the hot Terriers. They also could not connect from the charity stripe, shooting 15-26.
The frustrated Huskies will try to regroup and enjoy Thanksgiving dinner, but it will be hard to do with this bad taste in their mouths. Next, the team will be off to Tampa, Florida where they will look to knock off another Big East opponent, the University of South Florida Bulls (2-1) on Saturday night at 7 p.m.
The Terriers came out firing, with Corey Lowe bringing the biggest gun. Lowe started out hot, scoring 23 first half points. A Matt Janning fade away jump shot at the buzzer gave the Huskies a 40-39 lead at the half.
In the second half, it was Jake O’Brien’s turn to lead the charge. The Terriers scored on their first three possessions of the second half, with O’Brien scoring 5 of the 8 total points in the stretch. BU led 49-45 at the under 16:00 timeout. With 10:00 to go, the Terriers led 59-49, but the Huskies would not go away without a fight. They cut the lead to 62-57 at the under 8:00 timeout, but the Terriers were too hot to handle.
Aided by O’Brien’s 21 point half, the Terriers won 83-75 Tuesday night, handing the Huskies their second loss of the season (3-2). BU shot 57% from three in the second half, and tied a school record with 15 total three-pointers. Corey Lowe led the way with 27 points, followed by O’Brien with 21 and John Holland’s 17 points. Matt Janning scored 22 for the Huskies, while Chaisson Allen scored 14 points and grabbed 7 rebounds. Also, freshman Erik Etherly recorded his first collegiate points, hitting a one handed put back late in the second half.
If it was not something, it was something else on Tuesday night. Lowe scored 23 first half points, but only scored 4 second half points. Jake O’Brien scored 0 first half points, then scored 21 second half points. The Huskies just could not cool off the hot Terriers. They also could not connect from the charity stripe, shooting 15-26.
The frustrated Huskies will try to regroup and enjoy Thanksgiving dinner, but it will be hard to do with this bad taste in their mouths. Next, the team will be off to Tampa, Florida where they will look to knock off another Big East opponent, the University of South Florida Bulls (2-1) on Saturday night at 7 p.m.
NU Tops Holy Cross
The Huskies exacted their revenge on Holy Cross Saturday night in their home opener at Matthew’s Arena.
All week the mood had been very serious in practice and in the locker room. Last year, the Crusaders hosted the Huskies for a game on ESPN’s BracketBusters Saturday. The Huskies were defeated 61-47 in Worcester last year, but this year was a much different story.
It was payback time for the Huskies. Northeastern led from start to finish, and jumped out to a 14-0 lead. Holy Cross did not score their first basket until 12:47 in the first half. Despite their slow start, the Crusaders made a run and cut the lead to 24-21 with 5:57 left to play in the first half. But the Huskies, led by Matt Janning’s 27 points, entered the half up 33-25.
The Huskies continued to have their way with the Crusaders in the second half. Janning hit one of his 4 threes to make the lead 53-35 with under 10:00 to play. Nkem Ojougboh added 12 points and Manny Adako scored 9.
Now the Huskies will look to improve to 4-1 when they take on Boston University on Tuesday night at Matthew’s Arena.
All week the mood had been very serious in practice and in the locker room. Last year, the Crusaders hosted the Huskies for a game on ESPN’s BracketBusters Saturday. The Huskies were defeated 61-47 in Worcester last year, but this year was a much different story.
It was payback time for the Huskies. Northeastern led from start to finish, and jumped out to a 14-0 lead. Holy Cross did not score their first basket until 12:47 in the first half. Despite their slow start, the Crusaders made a run and cut the lead to 24-21 with 5:57 left to play in the first half. But the Huskies, led by Matt Janning’s 27 points, entered the half up 33-25.
The Huskies continued to have their way with the Crusaders in the second half. Janning hit one of his 4 threes to make the lead 53-35 with under 10:00 to play. Nkem Ojougboh added 12 points and Manny Adako scored 9.
Now the Huskies will look to improve to 4-1 when they take on Boston University on Tuesday night at Matthew’s Arena.
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Battle of Boston
Come see the Huskies battle their city rival Boston University tonight at 8 p.m. at Matthew's Arena
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Huskies Light Up Friars
On Saturday night the Northeastern Huskies earned their first victory over Providence College since 1926.
Before traveling to Providence on Friday night, the Huskies practiced and watched film on the Friars. They then drove and hour to the Biltmore Hotel in the heart of downtown Providence. As if the Huskies weren’t excited enough, the hotel added extra. The players loved the size of the rooms, beds, and most importantly the television.
Saturday morning the Huskies went down the street to shoot around at the newly renovated Dunkin Donuts Center. It was going to be the Huskies third game of the week, and the coaching staff was working tirelessly to prepare the team for all possible opponents while trying to still have a focus of the Providence game at the end of the week. But anyone who knows this coaching staff knows that they prepare extremely well for all opponents.
The city was buzzing. It was a new beginning, so to speak, for the Friars. They were fresh off of hiring their new head coach, Keno Davis. It was the first official game in the Dunkin Donuts Center for the Friars. Point guard Sharaud Curry was healthy and poised to play his first full season in over a year. There were new seats, luxury boxes, and locker rooms. Everything was scripted out for a nice celebration. The Huskies did not get an invitation to the party, so they crashed it.
Eugene Spates started off the game with a three-pointer. The Huskies are now 2-0 this year when starting the game with a Spates three-pointer. An 8-0 run by the Friars capped off by a Jonathan Kale lay up made it 13-5 in Providence’s favor. It looked like it was going to get out of hand quick, but the Huskies did not fold.
The Huskies kept chipping away and finally took the lead after a 6-0 run making it 20-19 with 3:31 left in the first half. At halftime, the Huskies were on top 26-25.
Here they were again very much in the game, this time in the lead, on the road at a BCS conference school. The energy in the locker room was contagious. We all believed it could be done. Coach Coen ran through some changes briefly, but mainly spoke of one thing. This night was not about them, it was about us. It was about what this team is capable of. It was about holding each other accountable, and playing to our potential. It was about a total team effort, from the guys on the floor and the guys on the bench.
The players took this speech to heart and came out firing in the second half. Matt Janning scored a quick 9 points in the first few minutes of the half. Baptiste Bataille nailed a three-pointer, and suddenly the Huskies found themselves up 11 with 9:11 left to play. But just when it looked like the Friars had given up, they came right back.
Brian McKenzie connected on three three-pointers in a little over two minutes to cut the lead down to three. The place was electrified. People were on their feet and cheering once again, but the Huskies kept fighting. But so did the Friars, tying the game up at 57 after a three-pointer by Geoff McDermott.
Baptiste Bataille, who seemed to be everywhere at once, answered back with a three of his own to make it 60-57 Huskies with just 3:55 to play. After a Jonathan Kale free-throw, it was 60-58 Huskies. The crowd was on their feet, screaming for the defense to stop the Huskies. But Eugene Spates, who had 17 points, hit one of his career high five three from way behind the arc, to make it 63-58.
Providence answered again with a Kale lay up, making it 63-60. Weyinmi Efejuku then stole the ball on the Friar press, and hit a lay up plus the foul to tie the game at 63. And then it happened, the shot. The fans were on their feet, louder than they had been the whole night. But the Huskies ran their offense smoothly and calmly. It looked like practice. Chaisson Allen dribbled the ball, off of a screen and swung it to Matt Janning. Janning, who finished with 24 points, drained a three from, exactly, the end of the coach’s box. The Northeastern bench erupted. So did the traveling section of fans. Everyone else was dead silent.
The Huskies needed one defensive stop to get the win that they have been so close to for the past two years. But a foul put it in jeopardy. Brian McKenzie missed his second free-throw however, and the Janning grabbed the rebound. The Friars fouled, and Chaisson Allen made one of two free-throws to make it 67-64. Allen then stole the ball, and was fouled again. This time he hit both, along with two more from Baptiste Bataille, and the Huskies were in the lead 70-66. The Friars tried one last desperation throw in, but Eugene Spates stole the ball and the Huskies won.
Janning threw the ball up in excitement, and the players wildly embraced. The locker room was booming with noise. After being so close so many times, this group had finally gotten a big non-conference win. It was an extremely enjoyable scene afterwards, and on the bus ride home.
If you ask Bill Coen about this, or any, victory he will tell you about how the players earned it. But not enough can be said about coach Coen and his staff. The amount of preparation and the depth of that preparation which goes into each game is extremely daunting. Congratulations to coach Coen and his staff for one of their biggest wins at Northeastern, with hopefully many more to come.
Before traveling to Providence on Friday night, the Huskies practiced and watched film on the Friars. They then drove and hour to the Biltmore Hotel in the heart of downtown Providence. As if the Huskies weren’t excited enough, the hotel added extra. The players loved the size of the rooms, beds, and most importantly the television.
Saturday morning the Huskies went down the street to shoot around at the newly renovated Dunkin Donuts Center. It was going to be the Huskies third game of the week, and the coaching staff was working tirelessly to prepare the team for all possible opponents while trying to still have a focus of the Providence game at the end of the week. But anyone who knows this coaching staff knows that they prepare extremely well for all opponents.
The city was buzzing. It was a new beginning, so to speak, for the Friars. They were fresh off of hiring their new head coach, Keno Davis. It was the first official game in the Dunkin Donuts Center for the Friars. Point guard Sharaud Curry was healthy and poised to play his first full season in over a year. There were new seats, luxury boxes, and locker rooms. Everything was scripted out for a nice celebration. The Huskies did not get an invitation to the party, so they crashed it.
Eugene Spates started off the game with a three-pointer. The Huskies are now 2-0 this year when starting the game with a Spates three-pointer. An 8-0 run by the Friars capped off by a Jonathan Kale lay up made it 13-5 in Providence’s favor. It looked like it was going to get out of hand quick, but the Huskies did not fold.
The Huskies kept chipping away and finally took the lead after a 6-0 run making it 20-19 with 3:31 left in the first half. At halftime, the Huskies were on top 26-25.
Here they were again very much in the game, this time in the lead, on the road at a BCS conference school. The energy in the locker room was contagious. We all believed it could be done. Coach Coen ran through some changes briefly, but mainly spoke of one thing. This night was not about them, it was about us. It was about what this team is capable of. It was about holding each other accountable, and playing to our potential. It was about a total team effort, from the guys on the floor and the guys on the bench.
The players took this speech to heart and came out firing in the second half. Matt Janning scored a quick 9 points in the first few minutes of the half. Baptiste Bataille nailed a three-pointer, and suddenly the Huskies found themselves up 11 with 9:11 left to play. But just when it looked like the Friars had given up, they came right back.
Brian McKenzie connected on three three-pointers in a little over two minutes to cut the lead down to three. The place was electrified. People were on their feet and cheering once again, but the Huskies kept fighting. But so did the Friars, tying the game up at 57 after a three-pointer by Geoff McDermott.
Baptiste Bataille, who seemed to be everywhere at once, answered back with a three of his own to make it 60-57 Huskies with just 3:55 to play. After a Jonathan Kale free-throw, it was 60-58 Huskies. The crowd was on their feet, screaming for the defense to stop the Huskies. But Eugene Spates, who had 17 points, hit one of his career high five three from way behind the arc, to make it 63-58.
Providence answered again with a Kale lay up, making it 63-60. Weyinmi Efejuku then stole the ball on the Friar press, and hit a lay up plus the foul to tie the game at 63. And then it happened, the shot. The fans were on their feet, louder than they had been the whole night. But the Huskies ran their offense smoothly and calmly. It looked like practice. Chaisson Allen dribbled the ball, off of a screen and swung it to Matt Janning. Janning, who finished with 24 points, drained a three from, exactly, the end of the coach’s box. The Northeastern bench erupted. So did the traveling section of fans. Everyone else was dead silent.
The Huskies needed one defensive stop to get the win that they have been so close to for the past two years. But a foul put it in jeopardy. Brian McKenzie missed his second free-throw however, and the Janning grabbed the rebound. The Friars fouled, and Chaisson Allen made one of two free-throws to make it 67-64. Allen then stole the ball, and was fouled again. This time he hit both, along with two more from Baptiste Bataille, and the Huskies were in the lead 70-66. The Friars tried one last desperation throw in, but Eugene Spates stole the ball and the Huskies won.
Janning threw the ball up in excitement, and the players wildly embraced. The locker room was booming with noise. After being so close so many times, this group had finally gotten a big non-conference win. It was an extremely enjoyable scene afterwards, and on the bus ride home.
If you ask Bill Coen about this, or any, victory he will tell you about how the players earned it. But not enough can be said about coach Coen and his staff. The amount of preparation and the depth of that preparation which goes into each game is extremely daunting. Congratulations to coach Coen and his staff for one of their biggest wins at Northeastern, with hopefully many more to come.
Michigan Downs NU
Wednesday night the Huskies were defeated by the Michigan Wolverines at Crisler Arena.
The Huskies jumped out to a quick 5-0 lead, but the Wolverines answered with a 14-2 run of their own. With 3:02 left in the first half, the Huskies trailed 25-20. By halftime, the score was 29-23 in Michigan’s favor.
Being down only 6 on the road in the Big Ten at halftime, the Huskies were very much in it. But the second half was a whole different animal. The Huskies got within four points, but that would be as close as they would get. From there the lead stretched to 11, but the Huskies brought it back down to 8 courtesy of Matt Janning. But Manny Harris and the Wolverines, aided by their home crowd, blew the game open from there going on an 8-0 run.
Harris just could not stay off of the foul line. He shot a total of 14 free-throws, sinking 13 of them. Harris scored 26 points, to go along with 10 rebounds and 8 assists. The Wolverines were hitting all of their shots, while the Huskies couldn’t buy a bucket. Northeastern shot 29 percent from the field, including 4-24 from behind the arc. Michigan closed the doors to Madison Square Garden, winning 76-56.
Needless to say, the locker room was yet again not that loud. The Huskies again came so close to a marquee win, and again fell short. Coach Coen was disappointed with their play, but told the team that it was just one game and it was still only November 12th. There is still a lot of basketball to be played.
There was really not even enough time to sleep away the loss. The wake up call for Thursday morning was 4:45 a.m., so most did not go to sleep. Players packed their bags and tried to relax after a tough night. It was a very silent ride back. But this silence was not one of defeat, more of disappointment and determination. As players and staff, this group has come close to so many huge victories on the road against BCS conference schools, but has yet to win one. The desire and hunger for such a win has never been greater.
Huskies Defeat IUPUI
On Tuesday night, the Huskies started their season off the right way, with a win.
Crisler Arena was the opening venue for the Huskies as they defeated IUPUI in the first round of the 2KSports Classic benefiting Coaches vs. Cancer.
The Huskies left Boston on Monday afternoon, flying out of Logan Airport. It seemed like it was Christmas Eve for the team, as they anxiously sat in the airport waiting to board and get to Ann Arbor.
Once they landed in Detroit, the Huskies boarded the bus to the hotel in Ann Arbor, Michigan. After a quick stretching session with Art, the team trainer, dinner was served with a side of game film on IUPUI.
Tuesday morning was the first time the Huskies entered Crisler Arena. Driving to the arena was quite an experience. When you drive up the street, you drive by Michigan Stadium, or “The Big House”. The team entrance is also right behind the stadium, which was really impressive to see. Northeastern was put in the Michigan football coaches’ locker room, but nobody put their things in Rich Rodriguez’s locker.
The shoot around and walkthrough seemed to go on forever, since the start of a new season was only hours away. But there was no doubt about the focus of this group. A pre-game meal was served, and one last film session was held. It was finally time to suit up and play.
From start to finish, the Huskies led. Eugene Spates started the season off right with back to back three-pointers, the second three being a four-point play. The Huskies led 11-6 at the first media time out, and then started to distance themselves from the Jaguars. At the half, the Huskies led 32-22.
The Jaguars would not let the Huskies go without a fight, and pulled to within 6. But Vinny Lima came up huge for the Huskies with 4 straight points at a crucial point in the game. The lead was run all the way up to 17 points, and the Huskies came away with the victory 73-60.
Four of the five Huskies starters scored in double figures. Senior Eugene Spates led the way with 14 points, while Matt Janning scored 13 of his own. Nkem Ojougboh scored 12 points, and Chaisson Allen scored 11 points while dishing out 6 assists. Vinny Lima was the spark that started the fire, scoring 8 points and grabbing 4 rebounds in just 13 minutes.
After the game, the locker room was not that loud. Head coach Bill Coen made a very good point to his players. He told them that he knew why it was so quiet, and that was because this group knows what it is capable of doing. It was time to prepare for tomorrow night.
Crisler Arena was the opening venue for the Huskies as they defeated IUPUI in the first round of the 2KSports Classic benefiting Coaches vs. Cancer.
The Huskies left Boston on Monday afternoon, flying out of Logan Airport. It seemed like it was Christmas Eve for the team, as they anxiously sat in the airport waiting to board and get to Ann Arbor.
Once they landed in Detroit, the Huskies boarded the bus to the hotel in Ann Arbor, Michigan. After a quick stretching session with Art, the team trainer, dinner was served with a side of game film on IUPUI.
Tuesday morning was the first time the Huskies entered Crisler Arena. Driving to the arena was quite an experience. When you drive up the street, you drive by Michigan Stadium, or “The Big House”. The team entrance is also right behind the stadium, which was really impressive to see. Northeastern was put in the Michigan football coaches’ locker room, but nobody put their things in Rich Rodriguez’s locker.
The shoot around and walkthrough seemed to go on forever, since the start of a new season was only hours away. But there was no doubt about the focus of this group. A pre-game meal was served, and one last film session was held. It was finally time to suit up and play.
From start to finish, the Huskies led. Eugene Spates started the season off right with back to back three-pointers, the second three being a four-point play. The Huskies led 11-6 at the first media time out, and then started to distance themselves from the Jaguars. At the half, the Huskies led 32-22.
The Jaguars would not let the Huskies go without a fight, and pulled to within 6. But Vinny Lima came up huge for the Huskies with 4 straight points at a crucial point in the game. The lead was run all the way up to 17 points, and the Huskies came away with the victory 73-60.
Four of the five Huskies starters scored in double figures. Senior Eugene Spates led the way with 14 points, while Matt Janning scored 13 of his own. Nkem Ojougboh scored 12 points, and Chaisson Allen scored 11 points while dishing out 6 assists. Vinny Lima was the spark that started the fire, scoring 8 points and grabbing 4 rebounds in just 13 minutes.
After the game, the locker room was not that loud. Head coach Bill Coen made a very good point to his players. He told them that he knew why it was so quiet, and that was because this group knows what it is capable of doing. It was time to prepare for tomorrow night.
Apologies
My apologies to everyone. I have not been able to post after the last three games due to computer issues which have recently been resolved. Thanks for your patience, and again, sorry for the inconvenience.
Monday, November 3, 2008
Annual Intrasquad Scrimmage
On Thursday November 6th, the Huskies will hold their annual intrasquad scrimmage. It will be held at Solomon Court in the Cabot Center at 7 p.m. The scrimmage is open to the public and admission is free. This will be the first chance to catch a glimpse of this years team before they begin the season eight days from now on November 11th. For those who need directions, the address for the Cabot Center is 360 Huntington Avenue Boston, MA 02115.
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Huskies Picked 2nd
During media day today in Washington, D.C., the pre-season predictions were released. The CAA predicted that the Huskies will finish 2nd in the conference this year, behind only VCU. Matt Janning was selected as a member of the pre-season All-CAA first team, the only Huskies player to receive an accolade. Here are the complete predicted standings:
1. VCU
2. Northeastern
3. Old Dominion
4. George Mason
5. Delaware
6. Georgia State
7. Hofstra
8. William & Mary
9. James Madison
10. Towson
11. UNC Wilmington
12. Drexel
The new issue of SportingNews does not share the same thoughts as those within the CAA. They have the Huskies picked to finish 6th in the conference, which may serve as motivation. If memory serves us well, the CAA and almost everyone predicted the Huskies to finish last in the 2007-2008 season, and they finished 6th. Predictions are only as good as the paper they are written on. It will be up to the Huskies now to embrace the expectations and live up to them, and that first step is only 20 days away.
1. VCU
2. Northeastern
3. Old Dominion
4. George Mason
5. Delaware
6. Georgia State
7. Hofstra
8. William & Mary
9. James Madison
10. Towson
11. UNC Wilmington
12. Drexel
The new issue of SportingNews does not share the same thoughts as those within the CAA. They have the Huskies picked to finish 6th in the conference, which may serve as motivation. If memory serves us well, the CAA and almost everyone predicted the Huskies to finish last in the 2007-2008 season, and they finished 6th. Predictions are only as good as the paper they are written on. It will be up to the Huskies now to embrace the expectations and live up to them, and that first step is only 20 days away.
Sunday, October 19, 2008
Canadian Tour Part 10
Sept. 3, 2008
Wednesday marked the last game in the long 12-day tour for the Northeastern Huskies, and it was also the craziest.
The day started out with a nice tour of Quebec City. Players and coaches enjoyed the beautiful city and all of its sites. They were constantly stopped in the streets and congratulated on the previous night’s win against Laval and questioned about their next move. After a two-hour bus ride, it was time to play against Bishop’s University.
Last night’s crowd at Laval was rivaled by Bishop’s tonight. The Gaiter faithful were out in full force, as this event was the headline of Frosh Week at the school. Fans were painted in purple and white and were on their feet the whole game.
Chaisson Allen hit a three to start the game, and the Huskies would never lose the lead from there. They took a 41-22 lead into the half, despite 15 first-half turnovers. The lead would get all the way up to 26, and the Gaiter crowd was still in full force, cheering and attacking whatever Huskies were on the floor. Manny Adako scored 19 points and ripped down five rebounds,
Chaisson Allen had 16 points and seven rebounds, while Chris Alvarez chipped in 12 points, five rebounds, and three assists of his own as the Huskies went on to a 69-47 win over the Gaiters.
This group of players has shown before that it can rise to the occasion and play better. For those of you who have been following along with these updates, the message is clear. If we all go to the games and support our team, the Huskies will only play better and better. It’s very simple.
After the game, head coach Bill Coen addressed the team for one last time in Canada. He told them how this will shape the season to come for the Huskies, and that it will have them prepared for life on the road and, of course, the CAA Tournament. Coen emphasized that if they worked hard, they will get to where they ultimately want and deserve to go. In one last huddle, the players thanked the coaches for the experience and opportunity of going on this trip.
From Lennoxville, Quebec, the bus ride to Boston was only about four hours, arriving just past 3:00 a.m. Once the bus was unloaded, players traveled together to the airport where most of them had a flight to catch within the next few hours. A little taste of home will do them well because the school year will be starting in a few days.
An experience like this does not come along very often. The gratitude that the players, and myself have for the tremendous opportunity cannot be summed up. A big thank you to the coaching staff and Northeastern Athletics for making this all possible. For a few weeks, it will just be drills and shooting for the players until they can officially practice starting October 15th.
Hopefully the season will be equally or more successful as the trip was, but this certainly is a great starting point for the Northeastern Huskies.
Wednesday marked the last game in the long 12-day tour for the Northeastern Huskies, and it was also the craziest.
The day started out with a nice tour of Quebec City. Players and coaches enjoyed the beautiful city and all of its sites. They were constantly stopped in the streets and congratulated on the previous night’s win against Laval and questioned about their next move. After a two-hour bus ride, it was time to play against Bishop’s University.
Last night’s crowd at Laval was rivaled by Bishop’s tonight. The Gaiter faithful were out in full force, as this event was the headline of Frosh Week at the school. Fans were painted in purple and white and were on their feet the whole game.
Chaisson Allen hit a three to start the game, and the Huskies would never lose the lead from there. They took a 41-22 lead into the half, despite 15 first-half turnovers. The lead would get all the way up to 26, and the Gaiter crowd was still in full force, cheering and attacking whatever Huskies were on the floor. Manny Adako scored 19 points and ripped down five rebounds,
Chaisson Allen had 16 points and seven rebounds, while Chris Alvarez chipped in 12 points, five rebounds, and three assists of his own as the Huskies went on to a 69-47 win over the Gaiters.
This group of players has shown before that it can rise to the occasion and play better. For those of you who have been following along with these updates, the message is clear. If we all go to the games and support our team, the Huskies will only play better and better. It’s very simple.
After the game, head coach Bill Coen addressed the team for one last time in Canada. He told them how this will shape the season to come for the Huskies, and that it will have them prepared for life on the road and, of course, the CAA Tournament. Coen emphasized that if they worked hard, they will get to where they ultimately want and deserve to go. In one last huddle, the players thanked the coaches for the experience and opportunity of going on this trip.
From Lennoxville, Quebec, the bus ride to Boston was only about four hours, arriving just past 3:00 a.m. Once the bus was unloaded, players traveled together to the airport where most of them had a flight to catch within the next few hours. A little taste of home will do them well because the school year will be starting in a few days.
An experience like this does not come along very often. The gratitude that the players, and myself have for the tremendous opportunity cannot be summed up. A big thank you to the coaching staff and Northeastern Athletics for making this all possible. For a few weeks, it will just be drills and shooting for the players until they can officially practice starting October 15th.
Hopefully the season will be equally or more successful as the trip was, but this certainly is a great starting point for the Northeastern Huskies.
Canadian Tour Part 9
Sept. 2, 2008
Tonight was the most exciting and historical of all the nights on the Huskies Canadian tour.
Tuesday marked the first time any NCAA Division I basketball team had ever stepped foot on the campus of Laval University. On the way to the game, the players could see the large signs promoting the game throughout campus. Needless to say, they were excited.
As soon as the Huskies walked into the building, they were mobbed by cameramen. So much so, that one even walked into the locker room until he was escorted out. The president of the university along with other university officials were in attendance, and the school held a pregame press conference, where head coach Bill Coen spoke about the great trip the Huskies have had so far and the great hospitality of Laval.
Posters advertising the game lined the gymnasium and hallways surrounding it. The paper did not go to waste, as the gym was filled to capacity and was as loud as can be.
After exchanging gifts at midcourt and after team introductions, it was finally time to play basketball. Laval came to play; the teams were tied at 19 after the first quarter. But the Huskies took the lead late in the second quarter and would not relinquish it, thanks to a 7-0 run to end the half with a 43-36 lead.
In the third, the Huskies pushed the lead to 13 points including a thunderous one-handed breakaway slam by Chris Alvarez that kept the crowd buzzing. He finished with eight points and seven rebounds. Matt Janning led the way for the Huskies with 20 points, while Matt Smith scored 13 off the bench, including two fourth-quarter three-pointers. Baptiste Bataille stepped up once again with his pesky defense. He had 10 points to go along with three steals. Manny
Adako continued his stellar play with 14 points and eight rebounds.
The Huskies cruised to an 84-72 victory in what proved to be their toughest game atmosphere. This screams out to the whole Northeastern community: pack Matthews Arena! To say the least, the way the Huskies handled and fed off of the crowd was impressive. They will have to have the same focus this year during their tough road schedule both in and out of conference.
Tomorrow will be the last day of the tour for the Huskies. In the morning, the team will take a bus tour of Quebec City, and then travel two hours to Bishop’s University to play its final game.
After the game, it will be one last bus ride for the Huskies, arriving in Boston early Thursday morning.
Tonight was the most exciting and historical of all the nights on the Huskies Canadian tour.
Tuesday marked the first time any NCAA Division I basketball team had ever stepped foot on the campus of Laval University. On the way to the game, the players could see the large signs promoting the game throughout campus. Needless to say, they were excited.
As soon as the Huskies walked into the building, they were mobbed by cameramen. So much so, that one even walked into the locker room until he was escorted out. The president of the university along with other university officials were in attendance, and the school held a pregame press conference, where head coach Bill Coen spoke about the great trip the Huskies have had so far and the great hospitality of Laval.
Posters advertising the game lined the gymnasium and hallways surrounding it. The paper did not go to waste, as the gym was filled to capacity and was as loud as can be.
After exchanging gifts at midcourt and after team introductions, it was finally time to play basketball. Laval came to play; the teams were tied at 19 after the first quarter. But the Huskies took the lead late in the second quarter and would not relinquish it, thanks to a 7-0 run to end the half with a 43-36 lead.
In the third, the Huskies pushed the lead to 13 points including a thunderous one-handed breakaway slam by Chris Alvarez that kept the crowd buzzing. He finished with eight points and seven rebounds. Matt Janning led the way for the Huskies with 20 points, while Matt Smith scored 13 off the bench, including two fourth-quarter three-pointers. Baptiste Bataille stepped up once again with his pesky defense. He had 10 points to go along with three steals. Manny
Adako continued his stellar play with 14 points and eight rebounds.
The Huskies cruised to an 84-72 victory in what proved to be their toughest game atmosphere. This screams out to the whole Northeastern community: pack Matthews Arena! To say the least, the way the Huskies handled and fed off of the crowd was impressive. They will have to have the same focus this year during their tough road schedule both in and out of conference.
Tomorrow will be the last day of the tour for the Huskies. In the morning, the team will take a bus tour of Quebec City, and then travel two hours to Bishop’s University to play its final game.
After the game, it will be one last bus ride for the Huskies, arriving in Boston early Thursday morning.
Canadian Tour Part 8
Sept. 1, 2008
Montreal acted as a second home for the Huskies, showing huge improvements in just one day in the great city.
Upon arriving at the hotel yesterday, the team went out and had, by far, the best meal during this trip as of yet. “Reuben’s” served the players and coaches a delicious steak dinner, which may be the food of choice if they keep playing they way they did tonight.
Once dinner ended, the team walked around the city and enjoyed the sights a bit, and then it was time to get rested up for a tough McGill team. Fresh off a seven-point loss to Kansas, McGill went out and beat the University of Virginia on Sunday.
The Redmen meant business, and the Huskies knew it. In fact, they would not even let Northeastern into the gym to shoot around on Monday. Even that might not have slowed the Huskies down, who won 87-73.
In the first quarter, playing FIBA rules again, things did not look promising for the Huskies, trailing 25-20. Although five points is not a large deficit, McGill’s Moustafa El Zanaty scored 20 of those 25. But head coach Bill Coen told his players to keep playing hard and keep playing together on defense, and they did.
The Huskies opened the second quarter with a 14-1 run with six minutes to play in the half. They then promptly finished it up with a 7-0 run to take a 45-38 lead into halftime.
Northeastern started the third quarter with all the momentum and continued to push throughout the quarter. Eugene Spates nailed a step-back three-pointer, one of his four from behind the arc, at the buzzer to make it 67-54 after three. Things then got a little chippy from there, including an intentional foul against the Redmen, as Matt Janning was grabbed around the shoulders and head as he attempted a breakaway dunk. But the Huskies did not lose their composure and coasted to the double-digit victory.
El Zanaty would only score 11 more points from the end of the first, finishing with a game-high 31. Matt Janning scored 30 of his own, including a posterizing dunk plus the foul on an unfortunate Redmen player. Manny Adako scored 23 points on 10 of 10 shooting in 26 minutes. And as Chaisson Allen goes, so go the Huskies; the sophomore had nine points, five assists, five steals and no turnovers.
From there it was time to shower and get on the bus, where Adako continued his perfect night. This time it was a great movie selection; Casino Royale was his choice for the almost three hour bus ride to Quebec City, where the Huskies will play Laval University tomorrow night.
Montreal acted as a second home for the Huskies, showing huge improvements in just one day in the great city.
Upon arriving at the hotel yesterday, the team went out and had, by far, the best meal during this trip as of yet. “Reuben’s” served the players and coaches a delicious steak dinner, which may be the food of choice if they keep playing they way they did tonight.
Once dinner ended, the team walked around the city and enjoyed the sights a bit, and then it was time to get rested up for a tough McGill team. Fresh off a seven-point loss to Kansas, McGill went out and beat the University of Virginia on Sunday.
The Redmen meant business, and the Huskies knew it. In fact, they would not even let Northeastern into the gym to shoot around on Monday. Even that might not have slowed the Huskies down, who won 87-73.
In the first quarter, playing FIBA rules again, things did not look promising for the Huskies, trailing 25-20. Although five points is not a large deficit, McGill’s Moustafa El Zanaty scored 20 of those 25. But head coach Bill Coen told his players to keep playing hard and keep playing together on defense, and they did.
The Huskies opened the second quarter with a 14-1 run with six minutes to play in the half. They then promptly finished it up with a 7-0 run to take a 45-38 lead into halftime.
Northeastern started the third quarter with all the momentum and continued to push throughout the quarter. Eugene Spates nailed a step-back three-pointer, one of his four from behind the arc, at the buzzer to make it 67-54 after three. Things then got a little chippy from there, including an intentional foul against the Redmen, as Matt Janning was grabbed around the shoulders and head as he attempted a breakaway dunk. But the Huskies did not lose their composure and coasted to the double-digit victory.
El Zanaty would only score 11 more points from the end of the first, finishing with a game-high 31. Matt Janning scored 30 of his own, including a posterizing dunk plus the foul on an unfortunate Redmen player. Manny Adako scored 23 points on 10 of 10 shooting in 26 minutes. And as Chaisson Allen goes, so go the Huskies; the sophomore had nine points, five assists, five steals and no turnovers.
From there it was time to shower and get on the bus, where Adako continued his perfect night. This time it was a great movie selection; Casino Royale was his choice for the almost three hour bus ride to Quebec City, where the Huskies will play Laval University tomorrow night.
Canadian Tour Part 7
Aug. 30, 2008
Saturday was a day of rest, so to speak, for the Huskies, who have just finished playing three games in as many days.
After breakfast, the players and coaches got a bit of rest. They then traveled to Carleton University for a workout and light practice.
At night, the Huskies traveled to watch defending NCAA Tournament champion Kansas take on Carleton University. The players sat in the lower level of the gorgeous Scotiabank Place, which was well attended. It came down to the final buzzer, but Kansas came away with the victory 84-83.
Once the game was over, the Huskies went back to the hotel. It was time to eat, pack, and go to bed for the team who will be traveling to Montreal, Quebec tomorrow morning.
It will be another day off for the Huskies on Sunday. Then it will be three games in three days for Northeastern, which hopes to go unblemished in the remainder of its exhibitions.
Saturday was a day of rest, so to speak, for the Huskies, who have just finished playing three games in as many days.
After breakfast, the players and coaches got a bit of rest. They then traveled to Carleton University for a workout and light practice.
At night, the Huskies traveled to watch defending NCAA Tournament champion Kansas take on Carleton University. The players sat in the lower level of the gorgeous Scotiabank Place, which was well attended. It came down to the final buzzer, but Kansas came away with the victory 84-83.
Once the game was over, the Huskies went back to the hotel. It was time to eat, pack, and go to bed for the team who will be traveling to Montreal, Quebec tomorrow morning.
It will be another day off for the Huskies on Sunday. Then it will be three games in three days for Northeastern, which hopes to go unblemished in the remainder of its exhibitions.
Canadian Tour Part 6
Aug. 29, 2008
On Friday, the Huskies were privileged enough to be taken on a tour of the Parliament of Canada. Although enjoyable, game time could not come fast enough for the group. Hungry to avenge the disappointment of last night’s outing, the Huskies took on an Algonquin team unfortunate enough to run into them after a loss.
From start to finish, the Huskies led the way. After opening up on a 14-2 run, Northeastern did not look back. At the half, the Huskies led 47-33 and broke open the game in the early stages of the second half with a 22-point lead.
The Thunder did not go away though, whittling the lead down to 6. But that would be as close as they got, as the Huskies came out on top 86-70.
Vinny Lima had 23 points and seven rebounds, while Eugene Spates scored 15 and pulled down 10 boards. Matt Smith scored 15 points while Baptiste Bataille ran the show for the Huskies, scoring 13 of his own to go along with six assists and three steals.
In their last game in Ottawa, the Huskies leave on a good note. Spirits were high on the bus ride back to the hotel. Tonight was a must win, and the team made sure that it happened.
Tomorrow will be a practice day for the Huskies. They will also attend an exhibition game that pits defending NCAA Tournament champion Kansas Jayhawks against Carleton University.
On Friday, the Huskies were privileged enough to be taken on a tour of the Parliament of Canada. Although enjoyable, game time could not come fast enough for the group. Hungry to avenge the disappointment of last night’s outing, the Huskies took on an Algonquin team unfortunate enough to run into them after a loss.
From start to finish, the Huskies led the way. After opening up on a 14-2 run, Northeastern did not look back. At the half, the Huskies led 47-33 and broke open the game in the early stages of the second half with a 22-point lead.
The Thunder did not go away though, whittling the lead down to 6. But that would be as close as they got, as the Huskies came out on top 86-70.
Vinny Lima had 23 points and seven rebounds, while Eugene Spates scored 15 and pulled down 10 boards. Matt Smith scored 15 points while Baptiste Bataille ran the show for the Huskies, scoring 13 of his own to go along with six assists and three steals.
In their last game in Ottawa, the Huskies leave on a good note. Spirits were high on the bus ride back to the hotel. Tonight was a must win, and the team made sure that it happened.
Tomorrow will be a practice day for the Huskies. They will also attend an exhibition game that pits defending NCAA Tournament champion Kansas Jayhawks against Carleton University.
Canadian Tour Part 5
Aug. 28, 2008
Thursday started out just as Wednesday did for the Huskies, but ended completely different.
The team met for breakfast in the hotel, and then was given two hours of down time before a quick film session. After a pregame meal, the team got dressed and got on the bus to the arena to take on Carleton University.
Watching the first half was almost like seeing the Ottawa game all over again. The Ravens jumped out to a 22-12 lead with 6:27 left to play in the half. Yet again, the Huskies finished up strong with a 15-2 run of their own, to take the halftime lead 27-24.
To start the second half, the Ravens went on a 12-0 run and never looked back. When all was said and done, the Ravens scored 51 second half points, and won the game 75-47.
The Huskies fought hard to the final buzzer, but did not seem to have the same energy as the night before.
Matt Janning led the way with 17 points, and Baptiste Bataille scored nine points. But the Ravens were just too much, shooting 55 percent from the three-point line and 50 percent from the field overall. The Ravens also shot 17 free throws compared to the Huskies’ seven.
But there were no excuses in the locker room. The Huskies win as a team and lose as a team. Although they lost, all of the players stuck together until the end and did not give up. This is definitely an experience that they will learn from.
Thursday started out just as Wednesday did for the Huskies, but ended completely different.
The team met for breakfast in the hotel, and then was given two hours of down time before a quick film session. After a pregame meal, the team got dressed and got on the bus to the arena to take on Carleton University.
Watching the first half was almost like seeing the Ottawa game all over again. The Ravens jumped out to a 22-12 lead with 6:27 left to play in the half. Yet again, the Huskies finished up strong with a 15-2 run of their own, to take the halftime lead 27-24.
To start the second half, the Ravens went on a 12-0 run and never looked back. When all was said and done, the Ravens scored 51 second half points, and won the game 75-47.
The Huskies fought hard to the final buzzer, but did not seem to have the same energy as the night before.
Matt Janning led the way with 17 points, and Baptiste Bataille scored nine points. But the Ravens were just too much, shooting 55 percent from the three-point line and 50 percent from the field overall. The Ravens also shot 17 free throws compared to the Huskies’ seven.
But there were no excuses in the locker room. The Huskies win as a team and lose as a team. Although they lost, all of the players stuck together until the end and did not give up. This is definitely an experience that they will learn from.
Canadian Tour Part 4
Aug. 27, 2008
After a day of practice and scrimmaging, it was time for the Huskies to take the court again.
Today’s preparation was a little different from a normal game day. Since the Huskies were not allowed to take the court until a half-hour before tip-off, head coach Bill Coen decided to extend the morning shoot around. The result was a comfortable 79-57 win.
As the Huskies battled the University of Ottawa Gee-Gees Wednesday night, their fresh legs carried them to victory. A strong 16-8 run helped the Huskies to a 36-28 halftime lead, despite only shooting one free throw to the Gee-Gees 12 attempts.
The second half began just as the first half ended, with the Huskies going on a 21-3 tear in the first 10 minutes. The Gee-Gees made a run of their own, cutting the lead down to 13. But that would be the closest they would get, as the Huskies finished strong.
Manny Adako and Matt Janning led the way with 15 points each, while Eugene Spates chipped in 10 points of his own. However the key matchup of the game was Northeastern’s Chaisson Allen and Ottawa senior Josh Gibson-Bascombe, who was a first-team All-Star selection in the OUA last year.
Allen controlled this matchup from the first play of the game, when he forced Gibson-Bascombe to travel. From start to finish, Allen calmly controlled the offense while forcing Gibson-Bascombe into turnovers with his defensive presence. Allen finished with 10 points, and six assists while turning it over twice. Gibson-Bascombe finished with 11 points and four assists with six turnovers.
As a team, the Huskies turned the ball over seven times in the first half, but only turned it over three times in the second half, while forcing the Gee-Gees into 17 turnovers. Northeastern almost doubled Ottawa’s rebound total, 36-19.
More important than the wins and losses is the bond that the team has. This trip has made an already-strong bond even stronger. All of the players are extremely accountable for each other both on and off the court. They also make it a point to be together off the court. It doesn’t matter if it’s out to the store or out for a meal, everyone is together and enjoying each other’s company. That is both a product of coaching and senior leadership from Chris Alvarez, Matt Smith and Eugene Spates.
The team was happy with its 22-point victory, but extremely hungry and focused for tomorrow night’s game against Carleton University. The Ravens have won five out of the last six OUA championships and have the reigning OUA Player of the Year, Aaron Doornekamp.
But for now, the goal is to find something good for dinner, and to get some sleep.
After a day of practice and scrimmaging, it was time for the Huskies to take the court again.
Today’s preparation was a little different from a normal game day. Since the Huskies were not allowed to take the court until a half-hour before tip-off, head coach Bill Coen decided to extend the morning shoot around. The result was a comfortable 79-57 win.
As the Huskies battled the University of Ottawa Gee-Gees Wednesday night, their fresh legs carried them to victory. A strong 16-8 run helped the Huskies to a 36-28 halftime lead, despite only shooting one free throw to the Gee-Gees 12 attempts.
The second half began just as the first half ended, with the Huskies going on a 21-3 tear in the first 10 minutes. The Gee-Gees made a run of their own, cutting the lead down to 13. But that would be the closest they would get, as the Huskies finished strong.
Manny Adako and Matt Janning led the way with 15 points each, while Eugene Spates chipped in 10 points of his own. However the key matchup of the game was Northeastern’s Chaisson Allen and Ottawa senior Josh Gibson-Bascombe, who was a first-team All-Star selection in the OUA last year.
Allen controlled this matchup from the first play of the game, when he forced Gibson-Bascombe to travel. From start to finish, Allen calmly controlled the offense while forcing Gibson-Bascombe into turnovers with his defensive presence. Allen finished with 10 points, and six assists while turning it over twice. Gibson-Bascombe finished with 11 points and four assists with six turnovers.
As a team, the Huskies turned the ball over seven times in the first half, but only turned it over three times in the second half, while forcing the Gee-Gees into 17 turnovers. Northeastern almost doubled Ottawa’s rebound total, 36-19.
More important than the wins and losses is the bond that the team has. This trip has made an already-strong bond even stronger. All of the players are extremely accountable for each other both on and off the court. They also make it a point to be together off the court. It doesn’t matter if it’s out to the store or out for a meal, everyone is together and enjoying each other’s company. That is both a product of coaching and senior leadership from Chris Alvarez, Matt Smith and Eugene Spates.
The team was happy with its 22-point victory, but extremely hungry and focused for tomorrow night’s game against Carleton University. The Ravens have won five out of the last six OUA championships and have the reigning OUA Player of the Year, Aaron Doornekamp.
But for now, the goal is to find something good for dinner, and to get some sleep.
Canadian Tour Part 3
Aug. 26, 2008
On Tuesday, the Huskies traveled two hours from Kingston to Ottawa, the capital city of Canada.
There was only enough time to check into the hotel and put their bags down before heading immediately to Carleton University for a practice and scrimmage against Carleton. Over the next five days, the Huskies will be spending a lot of time there. Beginning Wednesday, the team will play three games in three nights. All of the games will be held at Carleton University, so getting there a day early was important.
The players will certainly get a feel for the court, and also the crowd. Their first game will be against the University of Ottawa, then the Huskies will take on Carleton University, followed by Algonquin University on Friday.
On Tuesday, the Huskies traveled two hours from Kingston to Ottawa, the capital city of Canada.
There was only enough time to check into the hotel and put their bags down before heading immediately to Carleton University for a practice and scrimmage against Carleton. Over the next five days, the Huskies will be spending a lot of time there. Beginning Wednesday, the team will play three games in three nights. All of the games will be held at Carleton University, so getting there a day early was important.
The players will certainly get a feel for the court, and also the crowd. Their first game will be against the University of Ottawa, then the Huskies will take on Carleton University, followed by Algonquin University on Friday.
Canadian Tour Part 2
Aug. 25, 2008
On Monday, the Huskies kicked the day off with a morning boat tour of Kingston. The team traveled through Lake Ontario, the St. Lawrence River, and the Thousand Islands. After gaining their sea legs back, the team went back and explored some of the city itself.
For such a small area, there was plenty to do in Kingston. Many restaurants and shops are packed into each street. The most popular store among the team was by far “Dollarama.” Unlike in the United States, everything actually was one dollar or less, which made for a great bargain on a student budget.
Back at the hotel, players and coaches got together for a pregame meal. Then it was time to get dressed and go to the game against Queen’s University. The Huskies were excited to get back into action for the first time since March, and it showed in the first half. There were some nerves and a little rust, too.
This was the first game that the Huskies have played in using international rules. These differ from American rules mainly in the size of the lane, which is wider in international play, and in goaltending. In international play, you are allowed to tip the ball off of the rim or into the basket as long as you do not come into contact with the rim itself. Also, the game is split into four ten-minute quarters, as opposed to two twenty-minute halves.
At halftime, the Golden Gaels trailed 30-25. The gymnasium full of fans was rocking as their home team was keeping pace with the Huskies. But in the third quarter, the Huskies started to gain momentum, when Matt Janning threw an alley-oop to Chaisson Allen, and Allen then returned the favor on the next play.
The Huskies got out to their biggest lead, 15, after opening up the fourth quarter with jump shots by Eugene Spates and Matt Smith. But the Gaels fought back, and came to within five points with less than four minutes to play.
Down the stretch, the Huskies proved to be too much for the Gaels, as Spates and Baptiste Bataille hit clutch three-pointers to put some distance between the teams. Allen put the exclamation point on the game with a breakaway dunk, thanks one of the five steals by Manny Adako. The Huskies won 69-59.
For it being the first game, the Huskies looked good. They made some great personnel adjustments at halftime, along with cutting the turnovers down from 12 in the first half, to only six in the second.
Coach Coen emphasized how important this first step was in what will be a long journey this year for the Huskies. The next step will be Wednesday night against the University of Ottawa, where they hope to improve to 2-0 on the tour.
On Monday, the Huskies kicked the day off with a morning boat tour of Kingston. The team traveled through Lake Ontario, the St. Lawrence River, and the Thousand Islands. After gaining their sea legs back, the team went back and explored some of the city itself.
For such a small area, there was plenty to do in Kingston. Many restaurants and shops are packed into each street. The most popular store among the team was by far “Dollarama.” Unlike in the United States, everything actually was one dollar or less, which made for a great bargain on a student budget.
Back at the hotel, players and coaches got together for a pregame meal. Then it was time to get dressed and go to the game against Queen’s University. The Huskies were excited to get back into action for the first time since March, and it showed in the first half. There were some nerves and a little rust, too.
This was the first game that the Huskies have played in using international rules. These differ from American rules mainly in the size of the lane, which is wider in international play, and in goaltending. In international play, you are allowed to tip the ball off of the rim or into the basket as long as you do not come into contact with the rim itself. Also, the game is split into four ten-minute quarters, as opposed to two twenty-minute halves.
At halftime, the Golden Gaels trailed 30-25. The gymnasium full of fans was rocking as their home team was keeping pace with the Huskies. But in the third quarter, the Huskies started to gain momentum, when Matt Janning threw an alley-oop to Chaisson Allen, and Allen then returned the favor on the next play.
The Huskies got out to their biggest lead, 15, after opening up the fourth quarter with jump shots by Eugene Spates and Matt Smith. But the Gaels fought back, and came to within five points with less than four minutes to play.
Down the stretch, the Huskies proved to be too much for the Gaels, as Spates and Baptiste Bataille hit clutch three-pointers to put some distance between the teams. Allen put the exclamation point on the game with a breakaway dunk, thanks one of the five steals by Manny Adako. The Huskies won 69-59.
For it being the first game, the Huskies looked good. They made some great personnel adjustments at halftime, along with cutting the turnovers down from 12 in the first half, to only six in the second.
Coach Coen emphasized how important this first step was in what will be a long journey this year for the Huskies. The next step will be Wednesday night against the University of Ottawa, where they hope to improve to 2-0 on the tour.
Canadian Tour Part 1
Aug. 22, 2008
The journey for the Northeastern University men’s basketball team began where so many have ended for the legends of the great sport.
On Friday, the Huskies toured the National Basketball Hall of Fame before making their way up to Canada. The team viewed all of the exhibits, along with competitions in video games, vertical jumps, reaction times and even a dunk contest.
Players also took the time to shoot baskets with the youth that gravitated towards them. They even had time to discuss this year’s outlook and talk about the opposition with the children’s parents.
After a few photos and one last look, the Huskies boarded the bus and continued on towards Canada. Ten hours later, with a stop for dinner and one to check in at the Canadian border, the players and coaches arrived at their first destination, Toronto.
As the bus rolled through the city, the excitement began to grow quickly. Players were pointing out sites and gazing at the amazing buildings and nightlife in Toronto.
At 1:35 a.m. the bus came to a halt and the Huskies grabbed their bags, found their rooms and went to bed. However, the excitement of tomorrow may keep them awake just a little longer.
The journey for the Northeastern University men’s basketball team began where so many have ended for the legends of the great sport.
On Friday, the Huskies toured the National Basketball Hall of Fame before making their way up to Canada. The team viewed all of the exhibits, along with competitions in video games, vertical jumps, reaction times and even a dunk contest.
Players also took the time to shoot baskets with the youth that gravitated towards them. They even had time to discuss this year’s outlook and talk about the opposition with the children’s parents.
After a few photos and one last look, the Huskies boarded the bus and continued on towards Canada. Ten hours later, with a stop for dinner and one to check in at the Canadian border, the players and coaches arrived at their first destination, Toronto.
As the bus rolled through the city, the excitement began to grow quickly. Players were pointing out sites and gazing at the amazing buildings and nightlife in Toronto.
At 1:35 a.m. the bus came to a halt and the Huskies grabbed their bags, found their rooms and went to bed. However, the excitement of tomorrow may keep them awake just a little longer.
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