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Interior depth, 3-point changes will alter Vols in 2008-09

By Mike Griffith (Contact)
Originally published 10:14 p.m., April 5, 2008
Updated 10:14 p.m., April 5, 2008

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The Tennessee men's basketball team likely will take to the floor among the SEC favorites again next season provided Tyler Smith returns for his junior year.

Smith told the News Sentinel he won't turn pro unless he's projected as at least a mid-first round pick. Numerous NBA draft projections and a conversation with an NBA scout indicate Smith will be rated a late-first round pick, at best.

Then there's the Bruce Pearl factor: Pearl has won the East Division two out of three years - including winning five of six meetings against next year's top challenger, Florida.

The Vols return three starters and seven of the top 10 players in their rotation.

That's not to say it will be easy replacing the SEC's all-time leading 3-point shooter, Chris Lofton, as well as JaJuan Smith and Jordan Howell. The trio of seniors accounted for 249 of the team's 312 (.798) 3-pointers last season.

In addition to his 3-point shooting prowess, JaJuan Smith proved one of the best perimeter defenders in the nation.

Howell slumped late at the point guard position, but that didn't take away from what his presence meant to the team. The easy-going, fun-loving Howell was popular among his teammates and a key to team chemistry.

Chemistry and identity are just a couple of the questions facing the 2008-09 Vols.

Front Line

Tyler Smith would anchor the UT front line from his power forward position, with rising junior Wayne Chism at the post and J.P. Prince the favorite to start at small forward assuming his off-season shoulder surgery goes as planned.

There's some question as to whether Ryan Childress will return for his senior year with the Vols, but even if Childress chooses to transfer, UT has enough depth to compensate.

If rising junior Duke Crews and upcoming sophomore Brian Williams can't beat out Chism for the starting job, they'll provide high-quality depth at the post at the very least. Incoming freshman Phillip Jurick could challenge for playing time.

Steven Pearl made the most of his limited playing time against Louisville, pulling down two rebounds in the two minutes he played against the Cardinals.

Prince will have a real battle for the starting job at small forward, as redshirt freshman Cameron Tatum has displayed a deft 3-point touch and isn't shy about using his 6-foot-6 frame to drive to the basket. Incoming freshman Renaldo Woolridge has size and athleticism and may also challenge for the starting job.

Backcourt

McDonald's All-American Scotty Hopson, who's expected to sign on April 16, is a strong favorite to start at shooting guard. Hopson doesn't possess Lofton's 3-point touch (who does?), but he's capable of filling it up from all over the court.

Upcoming junior Josh Tabb is another option at shooting guard or on the wing, depending on the matchups. Tabb has improved his offensive skills each of the past two seasons and proven himself a lock-down defender.

The point guard position will get as interesting as incumbent Ramar Smith allows. Ramar Smith has shown great upside, but a disappointing sophomore season has left his starting job in jeopardy.

Daniel West, of Saginaw, Mich., is expected to sign on April 16 and push Ramar Smith for the starting job. At the very least, West is expected to earn double-digit minutes in the Vols' 10-man rotation.

Strategy

UT likely will remain a man-to-man team, but Pearl said he will mix in a 2-3 match-up zone similar to the one Ohio State and Louisville used with success.

Pearl said the Vols are in better position to utilize the zone because of their increased length on the perimeter and the 3-point line being moved back.

UT women's coach Pat Summitt and men's assistant coach Steve Forbes have worked closely with Pearl on the new zone.

Tennessee will continue to press, though Pearl said that's an area that needs improvement after losing some of its efficiency this season.

The Vols' offensive base doesn't figure to change much, other than the obvious adjustment of not taking as many 3-pointers with Lofton and JaJuan Smith departing and the line getting moved back.

Tyler Smith showed improvement from the 3-point line and could end up taking more shots from the outside, and Tatum is another sharpshooter who figures into perimeter scoring plan. Parade All-American Hopson will have freedom to drive the lane from the shooting guard position.

Schedule

The Vols' schedule doesn't figure to drop off much, and that's saying a mouthful considering UT's slate was ranked No. 1 in the RPI ratings this season.

The Vols will play in the Old Spice Classic in Orlando Nov. 27-30. The eight-team field also includes Michigan State, Gonzaga, Maryland, Siena, Wichita State, Oklahoma State and a team to be named later.

UT also will play Marquette in the SEC-Big East challenge in Nashville, and the Vols have a date at Kansas in addition to playing host to Memphis.

Tennessee has yet to fill its schedule, but other non-conference opponents scheduled to date include Middle Tennessee State, Tennessee Martin and Louisiana-Lafayette.

Pearl Says

"I would think a preview story today versus a preview a month from now and one in August would be different.

"I don't have a crystal ball, and I can't tell you what will happen in the spring, in the summer and how they'll progress academically and socially. We've not put this team together yet.

"I've got to look at our freshmen, and see what Cameron (Tatum) looks like - I'm excited about him. I really wanted to play Cameron more this year had he not gotten hurt (arthroscopic knee surgery).

"Duke Crews will go on a different-level training program, Ramar Smith will look at improving his skill set, and what a difference a year could make for Brian Williams.

"J.P. Prince is looking at offseason shoulder surgery, and that should go well, and obviously Tyler (Smith) has a big decision to make.''

110 Comments

Posted by BigVolinCarolina on April 5, 2008 at 11:50 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Great job, Vol ballers & Coach Pearl. Lots of fun to watch and, yes, there are improvements to make; however, I am grateful to see a UT team play its heart out each game.

Hope the team has an excellent off-season. Hoops next year should be fun.

Posted by kceltic on April 5, 2008 at 11:51 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Point guard is the key to next season.If Ramar can return to his freshman form,then we'll be tough.He must work on his shooting and decision making,(play under control!)I hope the West kid is as good as advertised,but he'll be learning as he goes.Tyler,make the right decision:stay one more year and hone your game for the NBA.

Posted by FatherVol on April 6, 2008 at 12:06 a.m. (Suggest removal)

NOBODY HAS ATHLETICISM! They have athletlic ability. An -ISM is a way of thinking based on a philosophy of life. Which one doesn't fit?
Fascism
Nazism
Cummunism
Fundamentalism
Cubism
Athleticism

Come on, writers, use proper English instead of just repeating television bobblehead garbage.

Posted by mikecheck1 on April 6, 2008 at 12:28 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Hey Vawl Fans Thanks for igniting the Memphis Tigers!!! If we had nt lost to you, we wouldnt be on the verge of the NATIONAL TITLE.. GO TIGERS 38-1 Most Wins in NCAA B-BAll history!!!!!

Posted by alfrizzle097 on April 6, 2008 at 12:42 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Everybody needs to quit telling Tyler to "make the right decision." He is a 23 (?) year old man that can decide for himself what is best. He has a son to think about and needs to weigh his options. What he doesn't need to do is decide to stay because he feels some sort of obligation to fulfill your expectations.

Tyler, make the right decision. The one that is yours, not the one ignorant fanboys make.

Posted by tenncorncob on April 6, 2008 at 1:12 a.m. (Suggest removal)

mikecheck1 enjoy your record, 'cause once again ya'll will finish second. This time to Kansas. Remember, the corncob told you this on Sat. nite...lol....

Agree 100 percent with alfrizzle097. Tyler has a tough decision. Let's not be selfish, let's support Tyler no matter what he decides is best for him and his family.

Posted by mparker on April 6, 2008 at 1:37 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I'm curious about what the deal will be for Brian and Duke; Brain could do HUGELY well with a serious lifting progrzm.

As for Duke, he just needs to shoot and shoot...an a little extra muscle wouldn't hurt him, either.

Ramar is anohter guy who should be able to shoot better than he does.

Three's are cool, but I think Derrick Rose has shown how valuable it is to have a reliable mid-range jump shot.

Posted by mparker on April 6, 2008 at 1:39 a.m. (Suggest removal)

mikecheck1, you own everything to your draw and to Derrick Rose.

Have to laugh my butt off, your only 'real' challenge has been form miss state, from the 'weak' sec...

frigging NCAA selection committe did the SEC no favors at all, and now look how things have shaken out.

Posted by BillVol on April 6, 2008 at 2:08 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Bruce, do you really need Pat Summitt to teach you a 2-3 zone? You're going to be earning $2 million this year. If you're earning that much money, you shouldn't need anybody to teach you how to run a 2-3 zone. You should know it already. Any high school coach in the state (earning $35,000/year) can teach you a 2-3 zone.

Posted by globadoc on April 6, 2008 at 2:24 a.m. (Suggest removal)

FatherVol,

Far be it from me to turn this into a language lesson, but 'athleticism' has been used in the English language since at least 1870 according to the Oxford English Dictionary.

'The practice of, or devotion to, athletic exercises; training as an athlete.'

This matches well with words such as these:
plagiarism
criticism
baptism
patriotism
magneticism

Thus, we can all feel free to use 'athleticism'. You too.

Posted by alfrizzle097 on April 6, 2008 at 2:57 a.m. (Suggest removal)

OUCH

Posted by andy112382 on April 6, 2008 at 3:14 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Gee, learn the latest about Tennessee atheletics AND the english language all on one site! Wikipedia what??? I've got govolsxtra.com!

Wow, so infomercialism there......

Posted by andy112382 on April 6, 2008 at 3:15 a.m. (Suggest removal)

*some not 'so'

Posted by cdldoc on April 6, 2008 at 3:35 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Fathervol, actually I have gleaned from my 50 years of listening to sports commentary that it is pronounced "athaletacism" on TV and radio. And it is a truly an objectionable term.

Globadoc, athleticism is used by these sports talking heads to express the concept of "exceptional muscular coordination" which is not the meaning of the word. It is a truly objectional term and I am sick of it.

Posted by TK on April 6, 2008 at 7:28 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I have a feeling if Tyler comes back Bruce will use him more on the outside since UT has a lot more depth in the post than on the wings. It would also let Tyler showcase more of his skills to the NBA.

Posted by eb502us on April 6, 2008 at 7:32 a.m. (Suggest removal)

On paper, I don't see us being the favorite in the SEC East. I don't doubt that Pearl can get us there but as of today, that title should belong to Florida. The key to us next season will be how fast the freshman and redshirt freshman (Tatum) develop. I'd leave JP as the sixth man since he's a change of pace guy without a jump shot. I'd also start West at PG and give him on the job training assuming he has the skills we've been hearing about. Ramar Smith, even if he returns to freshman form, would be a bench player on every other team in the SEC. He's a man both without a position and a jump shot and I'm not expecting him to find one overnight. And even if he does, from what I've seen, he's more of a set shooter than a jump shooter and is not going to create his own shot on the perimeter. Let's just pray that freshman are mature and ready to step in, most notably Hopson, West and Woolridge.

Posted by Plasticman on April 6, 2008 at 9:18 a.m. (Suggest removal)

If Tyler is not projected as a Top 16 pick, the "RIGHT" decision is to stay one more year. Otherwise he loses $3M of guaranteed money. I think anyone would be willing to wait 365 days for $3M don't you??? If he is projected as a top 16 pick, I would definitely come out. Not sure he's there yet.

Posted by TurboFan on April 6, 2008 at 9:19 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Corncob, would love to agree with you about Kansas beating Memphis but the prognositcation abilities of this board is terrible. Many thought Louisville was destined for the NC after walloping UT. Then UNC was lauded after mesmerizing Louisville. Will we be the team that lost badly to the team that lost badly to the team that lost badly to the team that lost badly to the team that won it all?

Posted by Plasticman on April 6, 2008 at 9:28 a.m. (Suggest removal)

WD40, we may be the team that has defeated the National Champ. 3 straight years (FL., FL., Memphis). As much as I hate to say it, I think Memphis wins Monday. I have thought all along UCLA has been over-hyped. They were LUCKY they didn't lose 3 more games toward the end of the season. UNC look shell-shocked last night. Kansas let a 28 pt. lead dwindle to 4 before taking care of business. Memphis is clicking on all cylinders (and even hitting FT's).

Posted by TurboFan on April 6, 2008 at 9:29 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Not that anybody asked: my sports talking head pet peeve is the use of the word "for" as in "he hit 3 for 4 shots". "For" means "to get". Chronologically impossible to have 3 hits "to get" 4 attempts.

Posted by TurboFan on April 6, 2008 at 9:32 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Plasticman, only got to see the first half of Knasas/UNC so didn't know how close UNC got in the second half. Looked "badly" to me.

Agree, would be nice meaningless accolade to say we beat the champ 3 years running. Would rather have made the elite 8 or final four though.

Posted by kceltic on April 6, 2008 at 9:38 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Right on plasticman.That was the point I was trying to make.His game needs to be polished to be a legitimate NBA player.So many guys come out to early, get a big contract,and are soon out of the league.Be smart Tyler,you need to show the scouts a more overall game.Guys with your size and game(right now),will be eaten up in the NBA.

Posted by THE_VOL on April 6, 2008 at 9:47 a.m. (Suggest removal)

FatherVol, cdl, eb = Kings of Moronism!

corncob, alfrizzle - is all that support of Tyler you talk about the same support that you and everybody else gave him three years ago??? You know the support that led you to call him and his dad everything but humans???? Is THAT the support all these "faithful, loyal, and loving" Vol fans are talking about???? Ya'll are a bunch of paranoid hypocrites!

mparker - "the deal" with Brian and Duke is simple - they are both destined to be career back-ups despite Moron Marcy's claims that one already IS an "impact player." That was the joke of the year!

Plasticman - you continue to be a master of the obvious!

eb - you can't even read so what you "see on paper" must be the stickman pictures you drew there in the home. NOBODY cares what you think! You've proven yourself many times to be an uninformed idiot. Now go take your meds and leave the real world alone.

Posted by yemmusdarb on April 6, 2008 at 10:01 a.m. (Suggest removal)

FatherVol: Maybe you should go here:

http://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/athleti...

Way to waste everyone's time! Is that all you have to do is try to grammar and spellcheck news articles? How about actually commenting the material, not how it's presented or typed?

Ok, now.....

My 2008-2009 Rosterism Predictionism (ft. Wayne Chism)

1st Team / 2nd Team

C - Chism / Williams
SF/PF - T. Smith / Crews
SF - J.P. Prince / Tatum
SG - Hopson / Tabb
PG - R. Smith / West

Posted by THE_VOL on April 6, 2008 at 10:01 a.m. (Suggest removal)

"UT women's coach Pat Summitt and men's assistant coach Steve Forbes have worked closely with Pearl on the new zone."

BILLVOL - Exactly where in the above sentence does it state that Pat Summit is "teaching" BP the 2-3 zone???? I believe there is a HUGE difference between "teaching" and "worked closely with." The latter does not in any way mean or infer that anyone is being TAUGHT. Simply that they are WORKING TOGETHER ON IT as in assessing it's potential effectiveness versus certain opponents, analyzing the strengths and weaknesses of the players in running it, looking at various defensive rotations to be used with it and perhaps even ways to disguise it, among other things.

It is also a 2-3 MATCH UP zone which is much different than the 2-3 zone you refer to. It is an excellent idea to implement this particular defense given that this team has zero post players that can play straight man defense without fouling themselves to death. So why don't you take your limited knowledge of the game and go back to all those HS coaches you mention and learn some more yourself lest you fall to the depths of idiocy currently occupied by eb and Marcy.

Posted by THE_VOL on April 6, 2008 at 10:08 a.m. (Suggest removal)

YEMMU - You are TOO FUNNY MAN!!! You bang on FatherVol with a comment like "Way to waste everyone's time!" and then have the nerve to post A LINE-UP PREDICTION??????? ARE YOU SERIOUS!!??? I bet you stayed up most of the night studying all your options for that didn't you!?? You may have just moved to the front of the MORON class pal!

Posted by wvuvolfan on April 6, 2008 at 11:32 a.m. (Suggest removal)

man, THE, what's up your rear end? All you have done on this page is critize everyone else. They are entitled to their opionions just like you.

Who died and left you to be Mary Poppins? Perfect in everyway. Lighten up, you'll live longer.

Posted by burntorangeVOLffle on April 6, 2008 at 11:49 a.m. (Suggest removal)

"Howell slumped late at the point guard position, but that didn't take away from what his presence meant to the team. The easy-going, fun-loving Howell was popular among his teammates and a key to team chemistry."

Chemistry is exactly the reason I didn't like taking Howell out at tourney time. It was too late to make that kind of change. And it showed.

Not that I would ever question Coach Pearl. He knows more about bball than I could ever imagine knowing.

Posted by pearlific on April 6, 2008 at 12:20 p.m. (Suggest removal)

MIKECHECK1...you are welcome! We were glad to whip you on your own court in "the biggest game to date in memphis history" (according to Calipari). As we whipped you the previous year in Knoxville, and as we will whip you again next year in Knoxville! However I do hope you win the tournament over Kansas. I would love to see the SECOND best team in Tennessee win the tourney title!

Posted by chisigs2 on April 6, 2008 at 12:28 p.m. (Suggest removal)

All you have to tout about Memphis is you barely beat us. ALL Memphis fans will GLADY lose to you EVERY Year... if it means we are in the finals and you are out in the 3rd round still complaining about your seed.

GO TIGERS GO!

Posted by chisigs2 on April 6, 2008 at 12:38 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Also... you had your shot to play Memphis again... and WHIP us again.... We lived up to our part... Where are the VOLS????

Posted by BigOrangeHustler on April 6, 2008 at 12:55 p.m. (Suggest removal)

chisigs, February 23, 2008- FedEx Forum- Memphis, Tennessee-

MSU 62, TENNESSEE'S TEAM 66

Posted by chisigs2 on April 6, 2008 at 1:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)

BigOrangeHustler I see your win... and raise you.

DOLS 78 TEXAS 97
DOLS 66 UK 72
DOLS 69 Vandy 72
DOLS 91 AR 92
DOLS 60 UL 79

And I'll you you enough credit to say you were # 2 when we lost... what was UK and AR again? What seed was AR in the SEC tourney? All you have to show is 1 win all season... and that is all your precious coach can talk about... riding our coat tails.

Posted by johnlg00 on April 6, 2008 at 1:52 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Even as a die-hard Vol fan, I am forced to admit that Memphis has been impressive in the NCAAs this year. I think most objective basketball fans, if there are any such creatures, would agree that Memphis seemed to have all the necessary pieces. The only question was whether they would all come together in the right way at the right time. Even their much-maligned free-throw shooting has been solid. Although I am sure CBS and the NCAA would have much preferred a UNC-UCLA match-up in the final, I expect an exciting Memphis-Kansas game, and I (gulp!) hope Memphis wins.
As for next year's Vols, there are certainly a lot of interesting pieces to that puzzle. Again, the main question is how they will all fit together. The deeper 3-point line will be another joker in the deck. At the least, it makes sense to incorporate some kind of zone defense into the mix. I also agree with those who say that playing an effective zone is much more than a matter of telling players where to STAND; it is mostly a matter of getting players to MOVE together with a common purpose. Proper movement within a zone is not self-evident to players who are more used to man-to-man defense. Smart man that he is, CBP is wisely seeking the input of one of the greatest coaches of all time, regardless of level or gender.

Posted by murrayvol on April 6, 2008 at 2:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)

burntorange: "Not that I would ever question Coach Pearl.." You just did!

Posted by murrayvol on April 6, 2008 at 2:26 p.m. (Suggest removal)

johnlg: Agree w/you for the most part. Regarding fts: They're making them because the ball stays in the hands of those who can i.e. Rose & CDR.

Posted by murrayvol on April 6, 2008 at 2:39 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Seems to me THE_VOL is intent on filling the vacuum left by DSAVol's virtual absence. So far it's not working.

Posted by johnlg00 on April 6, 2008 at 2:42 p.m. (Suggest removal)

You're right, murray. It is just good strategy to have the ball in the hands of the best free-throw shooters at crunch time. It is, however, also true, as the announcers pointed out, that most of the free-throws Memphis has had so far were not actually in critical situations. Memphis has employed the smartest of all strategies for a team that doesn't have confidence in its free-throw shooting--get far enough ahead that free-throws won't be the difference in the game!

Posted by chisigs2 on April 6, 2008 at 2:53 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Yeah I am sure the vols wish they could do that... not have to worry about FT's either and have a big lead... but that requires a lead first.

Posted by yemmusdarb on April 6, 2008 at 3:09 p.m. (Suggest removal)

chisigs2: Everytime you bash UT, you bash Memphis. We beat you, so however terrible we apparently are.... just means you lost by that terrible of a team (on your homecourt).

Oh and by the way, I'll give it to you that Memphis had a better year this year than us IN BASKETBALL. Where is your football program? Womens basketball? Any other sport that actually might matter? All you've got is basketball and we beat you HEAD TO HEAD on your homecourt, so yes... you had a better season but no matter WHAT you sling at us we can say "YEAH BUT WE BEAT YOU!!"

Again, I'm a grown man so I'll admit you had the better team, but hey.... we beat you and there's nothing you can say about that. Good luck in the championship game, but I picked Kansas from the beginning to beat you guys in the final.

Posted by chisigs2 on April 6, 2008 at 3:17 p.m. (Suggest removal)

No UT fans bashed Memphis after the luck win... that game could have went either way with a few bad passes.... Just a little payback. I hope you like crow... b/c that is what's for dinner tomorrow after we take down Kansas.. enjoy your win over Memphis... we'll take that next year too over a beatdown in the tourney like you got.

Posted by Hunter on April 6, 2008 at 3:35 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Some of you need to get off of FatherVol's back:

1. He lives in Memphis and has to deal with Calipari in confessional every week. That HAS to take a full 8-hour day by itself.

2. He was posting on govols.com before some of you knew that Al Gore invented the Internet.

Go Kansas - beat Memphis. Please.

Posted by johnlg00 on April 6, 2008 at 3:45 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Dang, chisigs2, no wonder everyone on this board hates you! I, and some others, give your team a compliment and all you can do is come back with more crap! Your team doesn't deserve fans like you! Just try to enjoy your team's success without being such an a@@ about it! Try to develop a little class; it might be uncomfortable at first, but you might learn to like it in time. Not all our fans are models of decorum, either, but you don't have to keep on dumbing down the discourse, especially on OUR board.

Posted by chisigs2 on April 6, 2008 at 4:03 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Their were/are plenty of UT fans on the Memphis site... so I dont want to hear it... they all went quiet after the UCLA beatdown... I guess they'll come back now for the KA talk.

Posted by warriorman86 on April 6, 2008 at 4:23 p.m. (Suggest removal)

alfrizzle097-tylers 21

Posted by pjhaddix on April 6, 2008 at 5:01 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I'm kind of bummed that Chris Lofton didn't win the Lowe's Senior Class Award. He had it won by at least 10% on the online voting, but the media and coaches vote, too. It was announced yesterday that Shan Foster of Vandy won. pj

Posted by jcvet on April 6, 2008 at 5:11 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Let's accept fact TN fans. I've put up with it for 45 yrs. now. TN couldn't win a high school tournament no matter who the players or coach. For some reason TN players and coaches suk in tournament play and always will. This should be posted in the dressing room. Fact is fact.

Posted by pdhuff on April 6, 2008 at 5:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Maybe Memphus will win, meybe not. Kansas will be a handfull.

Just thoughts, I know Vols would have had no business in this final four.

Posted by TK on April 6, 2008 at 6:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I was wondering if anyone could tell me how many times UT was on ESPN this past year? UT seemed to be on a lot. If there was any team that appered more? I can only think of a couple of games that UT was not on some channel.

Posted by BigOrangeHustler on April 6, 2008 at 6:13 p.m. (Suggest removal)

chisigs, on a serious not, you better savor your basketball season because you got nothing else to look forward to. Except, maybe this summer you can go and watch some former/current MSU players in the Penetentiary League.

Posted by TommyJack on April 6, 2008 at 6:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)

cdldoc: I don't get it. What is objectionable about the word?

Posted by trparoundtheworld on April 6, 2008 at 7:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Chisigs2, how many regional finals did Memphis underachieve in the last 3 years? Secondly, how long again has Coach Calamari been in Memphis and how long has Pearl been at UT? Just as you and every other Memphis fan knows, Pearl is creating a dynasty that you CAN'T STOP! And Calamari knows it, otherwise he wouldn't be whinning at every opportunity to not have to come to Knoxville to play the series and avoid getting whooped! Enjoy your winning while you have it.

Posted by trparoundtheworld on April 6, 2008 at 7:38 p.m. (Suggest removal)

My 2008-09 roster:
PG - Daniel West
SG - Scotty Hopson
SF - Tyler Smith
PF - Wayne Chism
C - Phillip Jurick
Recruiting rankings are based primarily off AAU tourneys, and West didn't play in any this past summer so as to get his grades in order. Now he's Michigan's player of the year, and lead his team to the state championship game - he will take over the point guard duties probably not right away, but eventually. And Jurick didn't play in any AAU tourneys either, he's a rebounding machine and that's what we need. Lastly, Tyler needs to improve his long range shot, so I think a move to the 3 would better help that aspect of his game, and Chism's natural position is the 4 which Pearl has said before. This team WILL BE better than the 07-08 squad!

Posted by sidwalkvol on April 6, 2008 at 8:15 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I am thinking that no matter how much money I am making, if the winningest coach in college b'ball history is in the next office down, I am getting her to help me at every opportunity... just as I am eager to help her in the ways I can. Being a Lone Ranger is not a compliment. Being collegial is.

FatherVol is right, by the way. It is important to use our best grammar here if only to distinguish ourselves from the Memfis crowd.

Posted by TurboFan on April 6, 2008 at 8:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)

TJ, the pronunciation, I think.

Posted by egwillo on April 6, 2008 at 9:22 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Why shouldn't CBP pick the brain of the NCAA's winningest coach? As CBP said, he and Coach Summitt have 7 national championships between them and Pat has 7. What a comaraderie!!! Go Lady Vols! Is it November yet?

Posted by Volborn on April 6, 2008 at 11:46 p.m. (Suggest removal)

If the University of Tennessee would just purchase a crystal ball, Pearl and Fulmer could use it as a table centerpiece and have dinner together every night. Mike Hamilton needs to make his 2nd best pickup and get one of these things!

Posted by cdldoc on April 7, 2008 at 12:14 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Tommyjack, It is just mispronounced frequently and overused constantly.

thevol, stfu, you bombastic ____!

Posted by redneckerson on April 7, 2008 at 12:20 a.m. (Suggest removal)

you self-styled grammarians really should check your dictionary before spouting off.

Posted by redneckerson on April 7, 2008 at 12:24 a.m. (Suggest removal)

hey cdldoc - athleticism, athleticism, athleticism!!!

Posted by bricker865 on April 7, 2008 at 2:55 a.m. (Suggest removal)

chigs2...think about all the ones (like myself) who didn't actually visit your boring fan site. Pretty asonishing isn't it? I would say the percentages are probably about 1%. I have better things to do with my time. It's pretty sad when numbskulls like yourself have nothing better to do with your time then to visit other teams' fansites. Don't make your low IQ any more obvious. Cmon' now..the weather is really shaping up and there are ample things to do outside..get a life.

Posted by bricker865 on April 7, 2008 at 3:05 a.m. (Suggest removal)

astonishing..oops...give me one break..it's 2:55 in the a.m.

Posted by GreeneVol on April 7, 2008 at 11:03 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Go Memphis. It should make Vol fans proud to know that 'the win' would possibly be the only blemish on the Tigers' champ. season schedule. And that the Vols were such a motivating factor - did you all catch CDR's post-game studio comments alongside Calipari? He said they hate to lose and that game was a huge motivator for the team. When it comes to playing them, I get a disdain for them not unlike I do for Florida in football. But I have to admit that they are fun to watch - especially Rose.

Posted by THE_VOL on April 7, 2008 at 11:36 a.m. (Suggest removal)

hey cdl - did you leave that blank line cause you can't spell or cause you can't pronounce it??? And what part of the TRUTH that I bring don't you like???? There are some really self-righteous morons on here fellas!

Posted by murrayvol on April 7, 2008 at 1:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)

chisigs2: I'll be pulling for the Memphians tonight in spite of illiterate, interloping, popcorn farts like you who keep cluttering up this board.

If "Good Kansas" shows up, your boys will have all they want and more.

Posted by FishTacos on April 7, 2008 at 2:01 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Vol fans should root for Memphis (the second best team in the state). If Memphis wins the title that means the Vols will have beaten the last three National Champions (not many schools can say that). Florida in 06',07', and Memphis in 08'.

Posted by marc_ash on April 7, 2008 at 2:15 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Pay no mind to 'the_vol' (or hilary_vol as he's better known for his flip floping on issues). Hell, this is the same guy to claim he had "sources" on the inside for Vol basketball and, when confronted, said he "didn't have to tell his sources". "TRUTH" coming from you is about as funny as watchin a 1 legged man trying to kick ass.

Oh, and please keep telling us things we already know, lunchbox. Capt. Obvious may be busy this month, and we all could use a fill in.

Posted by chisigs2 on April 7, 2008 at 3:41 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Posted by brownsvillevol on April 7, 2008 at 4:06 p.m. (Suggest removal)

i would root for memphis but because of you no class sore losers coming here on our boards and bothering us i truly hope they get beat bad as in i hope they suffer the worst defeat in school history. and as for what you call a luck win,well lets just say then you were unlucky but obviously you can't get over it and i'm quite sure next year will be luck as well tennesee 12 memphis 7 sore loser prix

Posted by chisigs2 on April 7, 2008 at 4:10 p.m. (Suggest removal)

GO TIGERS!! GO TIGERS!!
GO TIGERS!! GO TIGERS!!
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Posted by mikecheck1 on April 7, 2008 at 4:21 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Breaking News !!! THe vols advance to the NCAA Final Game!! My Bad, I mean the LADY VAWLS!!! Go TIGERS!!!!

Posted by chisigs2 on April 7, 2008 at 4:25 p.m. (Suggest removal)

HA HA... Lady VOLS might go down if Stanford plays like they were playing UConn....

GO TIGERS!

Posted by BigOrangeHustler on April 7, 2008 at 4:26 p.m. (Suggest removal)

That's Awesome, mikecheck1. How long did it take you to think of that?

Posted by mikecheck1 on April 7, 2008 at 4:37 p.m. (Suggest removal)

OrangeHustler it took just as long as the VAWLS lasted in the NCAA tournament!! No time at all!!!

Posted by BigOrangeHustler on April 7, 2008 at 5:54 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Nice comeback, mike, I must admit. Howeveer, the more you knock the VOLS, the more you lessen your team, because Tennessee was the only team to beat "America's Team" and it was in the Forum. What a joke your Memphis State Kittens will never even be Tennessee's Team; nonetheless, "America's Team"

Posted by chisigs2 on April 7, 2008 at 6:02 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Sounds like loser talk to me... sore loser after that beat down you got many times after your big win over Memphis. Like I have stated many times over.... we'll take 1 loss to you for a NC anytime.

Posted by BigOrangeHustler on April 7, 2008 at 6:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)

chisigs, don't get me wrong, I'd like to see Memphis beat Kansas. So we can say we beat the National Champs in the regular season for a third year in a row.( 2006 Fla.- 2-0, 2007 Fla.- 1-1, 2008 Mem.- 1-0)

Posted by chisigs2 on April 7, 2008 at 6:26 p.m. (Suggest removal)

But what does that prove? Nothing if you can't produce anything afterwards? UT has a good football team... but your BB team is a new found thing... yet you all talk like you are a DUKE or UNC with some history... which simply isn't there. I think your football history bleeds over to your BB history in the SEC. At least Memphis has some history... be as bad as it is... it is there. That is my main hang up w/ 75% of the UT fans this year. And I am sure of that 74% are probably on the band wagon for you guys.

Posted by mikecheck1 on April 7, 2008 at 6:37 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I agree chisigs2.. When you the Vols beat us this year they were talking as if they were in the same breath as a Duke,UCLA,or Kansas! We dont even do that although we have a rich bball history. Thats like me saying the the U of M football team is in the same league as the VAWLS in football. Which is crazy!!!

Posted by mikecheck1 on April 7, 2008 at 6:43 p.m. (Suggest removal)

The Truth Hurts!! We are National Contenders and the VAWLS are state contenders!! BTW, You can have the state title every yr,just like the high schools. We want the NATIONAL TITLE!!! GO TIGERS GO!!! 1 more to Go!!!!

Posted by BigOrangeHustler on April 7, 2008 at 7:06 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Wait, so let me get this straight, you're saying you got beat by a high school team?

Posted by chisigs2 on April 7, 2008 at 8:31 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Mike is on a sugar high for the game 2 nite it seems... cut him a little slack. No I think UT had a pretty good team when they won in Memphis... just couldn't hold it together afterwards and that followed you into the tourney.

Posted by phyllisgarcia on April 7, 2008 at 8:43 p.m. (Suggest removal)

hey i hope that the same team returns next year

Posted by BigOrangeHustler on April 7, 2008 at 9:27 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Agreed, chisigs. Good luck to your Tigers tonight.

Posted by jeremyinitalia on April 7, 2008 at 11:41 p.m. (Suggest removal)

this championship game is great...all I can say is, HAHAHAHAHA!

Posted by jeremyinitalia on April 7, 2008 at 11:44 p.m. (Suggest removal)

one and one for CDR...could ice it...BRICK!
two shots for CDR for the title...BRICK!...BRICK!!!
ok, the game MVP for UM, 10 sec in reg., he makes two, it's a new era for the home of the King...BRICK!
OK, it would take an act of God for Kansas to make a miracle three...SWISH!!!

Posted by jeremyinitalia on April 7, 2008 at 11:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Memphis...the city of broken dreams...
New city slogan enacted April 8, 2008:
"Woulda, Coulda, Shoulda"... Mayor declares slogan is retroactive to 1961.

Posted by jeremyinitalia on April 7, 2008 at 11:51 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I'm so glad I go to U of M! I'm so glad, even though our free throws don't go in!

I'm so glad I go to U of M! I'm so glad in 20 years we might do this again!

HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!

I love you overrated.

Posted by redneckerson on April 7, 2008 at 11:55 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Karma, Memphis fans ... it's a bear. Man, that had to hurt. Maybe Calimari will be a little more concerned with free throw next year.

Posted by bricker865 on April 7, 2008 at 11:56 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I didn't major in Chemistry but funny how a little choke job in the championship game will make Mempiss fans disappear. Actually they'll still be whining about something. Prepare for another smackdown early next season!

Posted by jeremyinitalia on April 7, 2008 at 11:57 p.m. (Suggest removal)

The University of Memphis - Grand symbol of perennial despair. With the prospect of hope and possibility, the only institution able to perpetuate heartbreak and misery 4 decades running.

Posted by bricker865 on April 7, 2008 at 11:58 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Mikecheck...they pulled the plug on your 'mike' and your beloved Tigers.

Posted by jeremyinitalia on April 8, 2008 at 12:19 a.m. (Suggest removal)

and the self vaunted Coach Calipari...only coach to take two schools that avoid the BCS academic requirements to the Final Four...fails to foul at the end of regulation, allowing the shot...awesome...

A few quotes:
“The Gods cannot help those who do not seize opportunities”
“Opportunities always look bigger going than coming”
“Even when opportunity knocks a man still has to get up off his seat and open the door”

Thank You Memphis, for not disappointing me and actually accomplishing something.

Posted by johnlg00 on April 8, 2008 at 9:38 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Well, chisigs2 and mikecheck1, you succeeded in choking off any feeling of partiality for UM I might have had going into the NC game. I just had to laugh when the Tigers were clanking free throw after icing free throw late in regulation. I really laughed when I heard about Rose's diet; now I realize that much of his failure to produce in the biggest game of his career was due to crashing from his sugar high! Kansas absolutely trashed your vaunted inside game and the big dummy, Dorsey, pulled his usual big-game disappearing act. Oh well, I'm sure you'll get 'em next year...oh, wait, you won't have about half your team next year, so I guess you'll just have to start over.

Posted by chisigs2 on April 8, 2008 at 10:05 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I'll take my lumps... agreed that Memphis blew it big time last nite. We played about as bad as I have seen them all year. Rose might has well been on the bench in the 1st half... Dorsey .. i quit counting how many times he got beat on the back screen after the 4th time? And CDR.. I have never seen him fumble the ball so much. KA had a great defense to shut down Rose... and it seemed everyone else on the team was content to let CDR and Rose take every shot... and that is not how we won all these games. You guys have every right to laugh and speak your peace... won't hurt me any. Sad thing is... you guys are right... we probably wont have another shot at this for a long time... which is why we were pumped about this season. We'll for sure never be able to live this one down.

Posted by GoVol on April 8, 2008 at 11:13 a.m. (Suggest removal)

mikecheck1, overatedvols, & chisigs2 - where are you loud mouths hiding today?

So glad to see MSU choke again...out coached and out played. Nothing worse than an MSU fan with an ego and a loud mouth. I guess that EGO you guys spoke so loudly with yesterday on this site has turned into your EGGO on your face. Ha, ha!

Posted by chisigs2 on April 8, 2008 at 11:30 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I posted an hour prior to you...try reading a little.

Posted by GoVol on April 8, 2008 at 12:27 p.m. (Suggest removal)

chisigs2 - congrats to a outstanding season for the Tigers. One of the best teams I've seen in a while (truthfully, no sarcasm).

Posted by johnlg00 on April 8, 2008 at 1:43 p.m. (Suggest removal)

chisigs2, way to man up--sincerely. I was probably as shocked as you were at UM's performance last night. I really thought they would win it. That is why games are played on courts and not message boards! I respect your devotion to your team and apologize for some ill-tempered remarks from this side. Rivalry doesn't have to degenerate into hatred. Good luck next year.

Posted by Hunter on April 8, 2008 at 8:06 p.m. (Suggest removal)

chisigs2, much respect for you, sir. You and 99gator have welcome GVX poster status anytime (not that I have authority over such matters, but still.....

Posted by itsme53792 on April 10, 2008 at 3:10 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Noting the comments about Calipari, did any of you vol girls also note that Calipari won the Naismith
Coach of the Year? Hmmm. Some dummy. Record wins everywhere, constant media attention without demeaning himself (see Pearl painting his fat ass orange), the Knicks are now dangling the line to get him to coach, and he can have the Grizzlies' job anytime he wants. Yeah: You vol girls really know sports. Except for your agitated jealousy of Memphis, you have no momentum to gain ground.

Posted by et_vol_fan on April 10, 2008 at 10:41 p.m. (Suggest removal)

chisigs2, tough loss. Cal has them in the right direction and I anticipate battles between the Vol's and Tigers for years to come.

Posted by Colliervol on April 10, 2008 at 11:38 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Dang. I guess we've been lucky 12 out of 19 times we've played Memphis. (And, unless Cal figures out a way out of playing us in Knoxville next year which I'm betting he tries, it'll be 13 out of 20.) Pretty good for a little old football school, huh?

And remember my little Memphis friends, in the Big Dance, it doesn't matter if you finish 2nd, 16th or 65th. Like they say in Alaska: "If you ain't the lead dog, the view is all the same."

Posted by johnlg00 on April 11, 2008 at 9:13 a.m. (Suggest removal)

itsme, clearly that was a regular-season award. The last two minutes of regulation in the Kansas game probably won't be on Coach Cal's highlight reel, when he auditions for his next job. He is a cheater--proven, twice--and a carpetbagger who will chase down the last dollar he can get. He and the Knicks deserve each other. You have hit your high-water mark for the next several years, by which time Calipari will be gone, chasing the buck like he always does. Besides, he has already failed in the pros with a better team than the Knicks or Grizzies have. As for CBP painting his chest--not ass; is that the kind of anatomy knowledge dispensed at Tiger High?--he was showing support for his school. Only uptight a-holes like Cal, and apparently you, thought it was demeaning.

Posted by itsme53792 on April 11, 2008 at 11:06 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Well Johnl...there is a difference in orangeneck classlessness and class; uptight is what you little people are whenever Memphis is mentioned..because you are always behind. So it's good that Colliervol is happy at being at the back of the pack; only one champion per year, but there are 8 ELITE teams who vie (that means compete) for the championship. uthugs won't be there because you "choke" in every tournament when it matters. Or maybe--and there is evidence of this as well--your just don't belong in high competition even when the SEC sucked as it did this year. The Tigers will be in the ELITE. Your other little trite commentary deserves no reponse.

Posted by itsme53792 on April 11, 2008 at 11:12 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Calipari has been at Memphis now 8 years; he recognizes elitedom when he sees it. He came from the NBA, Pearl came U of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. UWM also went to the Sweet 16 just the way the uthugs do before they "choke" out..because they don't belong there. High school teams in Memphis could beat Auburn, LSU, and half the SEC this year. Highwater? Memphis is measured by rising highwater marks; your little uthugs are trounced in the weak SEC tournament, and butt-kicked by a 6 seed in the NCAA. Yeah, you should really have been complaining about a 2 seed? That's a knee slapper.

Posted by itsme53792 on April 11, 2008 at 11:13 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Volgirls. The best in Knoxville.

Posted by brownsvillevol on April 11, 2008 at 12:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)

itsme once again you show your prowess of stupidity louisville was a #3 seed not 6 and i'm am related to someone who works for the grizz and your coach was never even inthe running last year much less this one by the way grizz players tell me you bob and mark ward are the little geeks who want to be basketball players girlfriends.

Posted by FishTacos on April 13, 2008 at 5:54 a.m. (Suggest removal)

GO VOLS!!! DO WE PLAY TIGER HIGH IN FOOTBALL THIS YEAR? EASY WIN, LIKE BASKETBALL!!!! 12 OUT OF 19 IN BBALL, IT IS MUCH WORSE FOR THE JV SQUAD IN FOOTBALL!! GO VOLS!!

Posted by johnlg00 on April 13, 2008 at 11:08 a.m. (Suggest removal)

itsme, it is interesting that when YOU mentioned what a great coach Calipari is and then classlessly (funny how often you use words of that derivation with little apparent awareness of what they should mean) attack CBP for having fun and supporting his colleague, and then I responded directly to points YOU raised, MY commentary "deserves no response"? Are you going to try to tell me that Coach Cal HASN'T gotten two different programs on NCAA probation? Are you going to tell me that he DIDN'T fail in the NBA? Do you not remember that MOST of the national attention CBP received for his chest-painting was quite positive? Silence if often the best defense for those who have no reasonable response.

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