Posted by rbatten9 on January 17, 2008 at 9:26 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Great win!

Posted by HilltopperVolPhi608 on January 17, 2008 at 9:26 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Just think how unstoppable our offense will be whenever Lofton gets it going.

Posted by jevolball7 on January 17, 2008 at 9:36 p.m. (Suggest removal)

We didn't shoot the rock very well,but played GREAT defense! Lucky for them we didn't shoot well. This team does'nt have to bring the A game every night. That in it's self is a very good thing! Bring on THE Ohio State. It will be worse for them. Does everyone remember that rabbit they pulled out of the hat in last years NCAA?! Doubt we have forgotten that!

Posted by rbatten9 on January 17, 2008 at 9:37 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Man this is sweet. It's always great to beat the loudmouths from Nashville.

Posted by pms151 on January 17, 2008 at 9:37 p.m. (Suggest removal)

How is it that the AP can post before the KNS?

Posted by murrayvol on January 17, 2008 at 9:40 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Yeah, I've been thinking about that a lot Hilltopper. About 16 games now. Maybe Saturday. Hopefully next Tuesday. Surely by March.

Can't complain though. We're 15-1 without much from Chris. But I would be a lot less anxious if he would start lighting it up.

Posted by iowavol on January 17, 2008 at 9:41 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Hey Hilltopper, Lofton found just enough of his game to help fuel the second half onslaught. Had he had it to begin the game, maybe we have 90-95 points. Regardless, he is still pulling the defense to him and he is going to the hole when the situation allows. He's opening the game for the rest of the tema. Great game, great defense, great team effort. Was Ramar Smith 6-6 at the FT line? Simply unbelievable how on he is lately given that 0-12 start. As for Chism, regardless what a lot of folks say on this site, his shooting from outside does a lot to open the middle. He does frustrate me sometimes being the mini-me in a grown up body, but the kid played big against Ogilvy and everyone else Vandy threw at him. Now, just go get 18 rebounds every night and this team is virtually unstoppable.

Bruce Almighty, we love you being here.

Posted by jevolball7 on January 17, 2008 at 9:44 p.m. (Suggest removal)

pms151: cause they suck.

Posted by rockyknox on January 17, 2008 at 9:50 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Who has the #1 RPI in the land. The Tennessee Vols, that's who. Check it out.

Posted by King53 on January 17, 2008 at 9:53 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Chism was a beast on the boards tonight. Love to see him get aggressive in there. He could do it every night if he just focused and really made an effort to box out. We will need him to continue to get better if we are to advance far in March. Great win over Candy. I said it before the game...they were the most overated team in America. They had not played anyone and have now lost back to back games. Oh well...let's log onto the Tennessean and listen to the Candy lovers whine and moan.

Posted by rockyknox on January 17, 2008 at 9:54 p.m. (Suggest removal)

http://www.realtimerpi.com/rpi_Men.html

Posted by GerryOP on January 17, 2008 at 9:54 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Wow! Our guys are good! Fun to watch!

Posted by jevolball7 on January 17, 2008 at 9:57 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Now we can break out the Aussie comments. Anyone for some Ogilvy on the barbie,plenty of Fosters,and Chism manning the grill!! Big Wayne took him to school!!!!

Posted by ssukonic on January 17, 2008 at 9:57 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I really liked our effort and harrassment of Vandy on defense. That was the difference. Lofton had a little offensive spurt in the second half.....Tyler Smith had a defensive spurt in the second half. We just have too much firepower, defensive intensity, and the ability because of depth to throw waves at them. I just loved it........

Posted by iowavol on January 17, 2008 at 10:14 p.m. (Suggest removal)

King, I don't know about your comments before the game, but I couldn't disagree with them more after it. Vandy is not a bad team, Ogilvy is a player as well as Foster. Their bigs played pretty well. Heck, King, they missed the elite 8 last year by a 1 pt, just like us. They just got dominated by a fired up well coached top 5 team. Vandy will win some games this year and we will have a tough time beating them in Nashville, although we will prevail.

Posted by stevefrommemphis on January 17, 2008 at 10:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Great game, Wayne Chism!

Posted by jr8657 on January 17, 2008 at 10:19 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Great game on the defensive end for 40 minutes. Little bit of a drought at about the 10 minute mark of the second half, I think we took the foot off the gas there for a little bit and we struggled. I understand but I think with this team they just need to keep the pedal down...if we win by 30 then so be it. Don't think for one minute anyone will ever let up on us if given the chance.

Posted by SFOrange on January 17, 2008 at 10:21 p.m. (Suggest removal)

From the get-go Vandy looked huge and dominant inside...but then UTs all court intensity showed.
These guys look very strong.

Question: what has been the highest poll ranking ever achieved by UT hoops (men)?

Posted by Ironcity on January 17, 2008 at 10:21 p.m. (Suggest removal)

We should have won by 30 if the refs would have made just a few calls early in the game. It's all the more impressive that our team doesn't seem to get upset (like I do).

Posted by jr8657 on January 17, 2008 at 10:26 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Tennessee was ranked #4 at one point during the Jerry Green era...too bad we didn't end up anywhere near that at the end of the season. If old man Jerry had given a hoot no telling what would have been!

Posted by volntx on January 17, 2008 at 10:31 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Keep it up Chism.

Is it just me or does Tyler Smith seem to hang in the air?!!

Posted by rbatten9 on January 17, 2008 at 10:35 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I agree, I am VERY annoyed with the hands underneath butts fans we have in the arena right now. It has become the 'in' thing to do and that's be at the game. Those idiots need to GET FREAKIN LOUD and not sound like an empty school building.

Posted by nicavol on January 17, 2008 at 10:36 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Free throw shooting was our weakness tonight and the poor FT shooting let vandy get back in the game. plus you had the ref Valantine out there keeping Vandy in it by calling handchecks on UT while Vandy bodied-up on our guys creating TO's. But free throw shooting must be at least 65%. Was it below 50%?

Posted by TommyJack on January 17, 2008 at 10:38 p.m. (Suggest removal)

jwraymond: Of all your asinine posts, this one is asinine deluxe. You can't bust the team's chops, so you get on the crowd. Man it must suck to be you.

Posted by Kwitcherbellyachin on January 17, 2008 at 10:38 p.m. (Suggest removal)

If I am not mistaken, the #4 ranking in the 2000-01 season matches a #4 ranking sometime during the Ernie/Bernie era.

Posted by GiveHimSix1387 on January 17, 2008 at 10:39 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Chism proved all of you naysayers wrong with a brilliant performance tonight(except for the alley oop pass). He can shoot the 3 and needs to continue to do it so we can bring the other teams big man out to the perimeter. Nice win Vols!

Posted by VolBall on January 17, 2008 at 10:41 p.m. (Suggest removal)

If you were a highschool stud basketball player, how could you not want to play for Bruce Almighty? Bruce brings sincerity, passion, intensity, smarts. He lets you showcase your talents. There is true method to what appears madness at times. His players take the floor with the same confidence he exudes on the sidelines...He is a legend in the making.

Posted by jevolball7 on January 17, 2008 at 10:42 p.m. (Suggest removal)

#4 is the highest I know of. We have more old,rich,bluehairs than I've ever seen on tv. You know the ones,"please sit down young man I can't see" Soon followed by the 80 year old usher,when I won't sit down! If you are not in to the game,watch it on tv. Plenty of Geritol and Depends at home.

Posted by jr8657 on January 17, 2008 at 10:49 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Did anyone besides me hear on the tv broadcast, Andy Katz was on the sideline and reported that Duke Crews could be back REAL SOON maybe as soon as tomorrow. They were saying that they had taken Duke to Atlanta to see someone there and he had what they described as a sports heart...and they got interrupted at that point and didn't say anything else about it really. Don't know much more than that but if Duke can start his comeback now he could really be a factor down the stretch of confrence play and into post season GO BIG ORANGE!

Posted by TommyJack on January 17, 2008 at 10:49 p.m. (Suggest removal)

cupcake? woooo

Posted by jevolball7 on January 17, 2008 at 10:54 p.m. (Suggest removal)

VOLBALL; I COULD NOT AGREE MORE!

Posted by SFOrange on January 17, 2008 at 10:55 p.m. (Suggest removal)

you're right...listen to the UMinn crowd (ESPN now)..the building is smaller that TBA...but we could do alot better.

Posted by dfreeman on January 17, 2008 at 10:57 p.m. (Suggest removal)

jwraymond1 - I think there are a large number of fans that yes, would like to see a quiet game of basketball. I also think there is a great number of fans there that won't (shouldn't) let that happen! When Lofton hit that trey to put us up 21, the croud in the background was going nuts!! I was in my Living Room bouncing off the rafters and my Vols were laying out Vandy!! Funny words to Vandy from a funny movie... "you got knocked the Freak out!!".... "you should've been bobbin' and weavin'"

Posted by tigervol9802 on January 17, 2008 at 10:57 p.m. (Suggest removal)

My God,

Only at UT can we find something to gripe about in a 20 point win over a top 25 ranked in state rival.

Posted by rabidvol1998 on January 17, 2008 at 11:02 p.m. (Suggest removal)

JW - The standing students were excellent tonite. I was lucky enough to be amongst them. The rest of the crowd could certainly be louder. I did see a couple of blue hairs getting on the refs.

Posted by dfreeman on January 17, 2008 at 11:03 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I once was told that if I didn't sit down and tone it down after cheering a defensive stop in a Florida vs. Tenn game then I would be asked to leave!! All because a Florida fan got ticked and some old fart in orange agreed!! I never cursed! I never stuck my finger in his face! I never did one thing to anybody around me except jump up and scream when we stopped em'!! What is football, basketball, or any other sport if you can't cheer your team??

jwraymond1 - calling anyone a cupcake on an internet forum doesn't make you Rocky Balboa!!

Posted by dfreeman on January 17, 2008 at 11:06 p.m. (Suggest removal)

TJ - lock your doors he may be mean!!! LOL

Posted by Couchdummy on January 17, 2008 at 11:07 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Great win. What a good balance we have in team play.

Posted by yabadabadoo1026 on January 17, 2008 at 11:15 p.m. (Suggest removal)

why is it every single game football or basketball--win or lose, home or away--some vol fans always complain about the refs as if we always get all the bad calls and the other team never gets any----------it gets so old

why is it after every game some say
" just wait until Chris gets it goin" when it appears thats likely not going to happen---it makes no diff who gets the points and if he gets a lot it come from others---why are some so obsessed that CL has to get a lot of points--I'm Ok if he hits a decent % and his attempts are reasonably proportionate to hows hes shooting----hes cut his attempts back based on his shooting and I can be Ok with him based on that--makes no diff whose getting the pts as long as we are winning

good show tonite--way to bring it, Wayne

Posted by dfreeman on January 17, 2008 at 11:25 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Hey yabadabadoodoo - while I agree with some of what you just said, it was you griping and complaining about Lofton and his "lack of production" on a previous bball thread!! Most were saying that Lofton was fine just doing what he was doing!! As far as the refs, I thought this game was called ok. Past games called were terrible this season!!

Posted by ellisonfamily on January 17, 2008 at 11:26 p.m. (Suggest removal)

We have enough top tier wins already (Gonzaga, Xavier, Miss., Vandy) to ensure that, if there is debate about our seeding at #1, we should be in good shape. We still have games against Memphis and other SEC schools to go too. Awesome. I only wish we could play the other UT again...

Posted by yabadabadoo1026 on January 17, 2008 at 11:29 p.m. (Suggest removal)

dfreeman--my gripes were not his point production but his efficiency----low % with too many shots----i can deal with it when his shot count is appropriate to his make %

when games are called bad it works both ways and evens out despite some thinking we always on the wrong end of it

Posted by hdhurst on January 17, 2008 at 11:33 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Now that was board play tonight Vols!!

Although I am still not sold on Chism throwing up the 3-ball, they did not seem as un-timely as they have been and a couple occurred after good ball movement.

I thought Chris showed a little more aggressiveness tonight than he has in the past few games, driving and shooting etc. Perhaps this will get him going. I am never for a player forcing things, but maybe that would help him out.

Overall, I thought the team showed great composure tonight when Vandy got it within 8 points. TN just stuck with their game plan and took it to them.

GO VOLS..can't wait to see KY go down.

Posted by yabadabadoo1026 on January 17, 2008 at 11:35 p.m. (Suggest removal)

ellison--how can you be promoting us as a # 1 at this point in the season--lot of BB left to be played----why would you assume other teams ranked comparable to us may not have quality road wins as well?----take the orange glasses off----too early to be speculating. If Chism continues tonites play and Duke can come back and be a factor its something to think about at least

Posted by mparker on January 18, 2008 at 12:02 a.m. (Suggest removal)

agony.....pain....dammmmmmmittttttt....

I set the vcr; for some reason, set it too early. had a bunch of espn garbage,then the game, got to see it till it was about 8=6, then the 'REW" starts up....

a tenn-vandy game, on espn, and I freaking lose it....think it's time to corak.

Posted by dfreeman on January 18, 2008 at 12:09 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Can anyone tell me what's wrong with the tennessean website?? I haven't been able to pull it up for a couple of days!!

Posted by newtonrail on January 18, 2008 at 12:17 a.m. (Suggest removal)

The Free Loading jwraymonds1's of the world can say TB isn't loud, but you are WRONG. This isn't your uncles' TB. Sure, the TV Announcers are on the East Side of floor and shots are taken across floor to encompass coaches. Those are the "Grandfathered seats". They paid for TB, and everyone might as well shut up about it. The rest of the building was rocking. Minnesota loud. Since I was at game, I didn't see it tonight, but I'm happy for Tubby. That place doesn't hold over 12,000 seats. Slight difference in TB and most arenas but a handful.

Posted by ZWVol11 on January 18, 2008 at 12:20 a.m. (Suggest removal)

On the subject of the crowd noise:

If the student section was actually closer to the floor I bet the place would be a heck of a lot louder. I know the season ticket holders would gripe, but what if we had another standing room student section on the other side? that way the students have a chance to be in the game for both halves. Instead of having half of the students on the third level up there in the nose bleeds. I was thinking about it in pregame when at about 6:15 all the students were there ready to go. Then everyone else shows up right after the National Anthem is over. The reason all these places sound so loud (i.e Cameron Indoor, Rupp, even the O Dome in Gainsville) is because their student sections take up over half their respective gyms. But thats just my opinion.

Besides that great game.

Posted by volmattna on January 18, 2008 at 12:21 a.m. (Suggest removal)

yabadbadoo-- he is promoting us a # seed because thats a very good chance..i think we will roll through the sec and if we can beat memphis we will be a #1 seed..go vols!! love you pearl you are the man

Posted by ZWVol11 on January 18, 2008 at 12:21 a.m. (Suggest removal)

well said newtonrail

Posted by Chainsaw on January 18, 2008 at 12:25 a.m. (Suggest removal)

People around my seats never yell, clap, or show any signs of life except when they get the urge to down another 2,000 calorie snack...then GET OUTTA THE WAY BECAUSE I LOVES ME SOME PETROS!

It's a sporting event, folks! Show some signs of life! Who knows, the exercise you get from clapping your hams together might actually make you feel better.

Posted by Chainsaw on January 18, 2008 at 12:27 a.m. (Suggest removal)

"Can anyone tell me what's wrong with the tennessean website?? I haven't been able to pull it up for a couple of days!!"

This URL works fine for me:

http://www.tennessean.com/apps/pbcs.d...

Posted by yabadabadoo1026 on January 18, 2008 at 12:44 a.m. (Suggest removal)

volmattna, its much too early to be promoting anything---can we get closer to march first to see how its shaping up before we start with the IFs we beat Memphis, etc---------I'm excited over the possiblities also but at this early stage its only dreaming--it could change on a dime

fact of the matter is theres no difference in 1 seed or 2 seed other than bragging rights---to go all the way you have to beat the best team in the other half---seeding just enters into the challenges within your own bracket half----winning it all is more the objective that what our seed is within our half--1 or 2-- IMO

Posted by ZWVol11 on January 18, 2008 at 12:45 a.m. (Suggest removal)

jw I hope he does also. But I still doubt anything will change. Because of the renovations, they almost reduced the number of students that could attend at the beginning of the school year. But I would love to see the Rocky Top Rowdies on both sides of the floor or on the sideline so everyone will realize TBA is a tough place to play. Plus, it must suck to sit in the rafters and not have an effect on the game when you can see the people that sit on their hands in the atmosphere below you.

Posted by charlespritchard on January 18, 2008 at 1:04 a.m. (Suggest removal)

The Tennessean has updated. I had to go to there home page then go to sports and re-add to my fav.

Posted by dfreeman on January 18, 2008 at 1:04 a.m. (Suggest removal)

chainsaw - I can't even open that URL!! This sucks!! I wanted to see what old shiny dome had to say about us stomping his band of birdies!! He was so kind to not shake Pearls hand last year or the year before... can't remember I just know he didn't do it after losing to us!!

Posted by ZWVol11 on January 18, 2008 at 1:13 a.m. (Suggest removal)

bossvol I was at the game and I thought it was loud but it could have been louder for sure. The Ole Miss game proved that but one thing people at home don't always know or see is the little mics that are on the goal supporters that face the court and allow the people at home to hear the whistles when they're blown. Again, I'm not knocking the support shown, I just wish there was some rearranging in TBA

Posted by FWBVol on January 18, 2008 at 2:34 a.m. (Suggest removal)

pms151, the AP story is usually almost a running game story. It's a straight story without quotes, that, if the writer is doing their job, is usually knocked out 10-15 minutes after the game. These stories have no quotes or the usual color that brings flavor to the story.

I would bet that the KNS staff grabs the AP story and posts it on line while their writers are getting more in depth stories complete with quotes from Bruce Pearl and the UT players. That's the way it usually works.

Posted by volfan73120 on January 18, 2008 at 3:06 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I remember in the early 40's (1943 or !944) the Vols were ranked #1 for a period of time. They lost a one point game to Long Island University in New York and dropped to #2. The Vols had an All American named Paul Walthers. LIU was coached by the famed coach of that time by the name of Clare Bee I believe.

Posted by thevol on January 18, 2008 at 3:19 a.m. (Suggest removal)

JW- Your stupid a@# wasn't even AT the game and you are going to rip the fans from your couch. You are well known as an annoying A#$ for football but this takes the cake. Go to the games and cheer yourself you idiot. This is a great TEAM and is a fun ride. Just enjoy it from your couch or go away. I was in the crowd for the Ole Miss game and it was electric, I am sure tonight was the same for the people that were actually at the game. Go Big Orange!

Posted by imwithphilly on January 18, 2008 at 4:51 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Hamilton, give this man a lifetime contract. We have the best coach in the nation. I wouldnt trade him for anyone. GO VOLS!!!

Posted by invisiblekid on January 18, 2008 at 6:56 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Nice win last night by the Vols, always fun to watch them beat up little brother and Peter Boyle errr.... Kevin Stallings. The offense by the Vols has been spotty this year but the one thing that isn't is their defensive intensity.

Posted by Mr_Brownstone on January 18, 2008 at 7:32 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Fulmer squeeks by an unranked Vandy football team. Pearl & Co. pound a ranked Vandy team by 20.

Posted by yabadabadoo1026 on January 18, 2008 at 7:38 a.m. (Suggest removal)

was Tabb available????----if so the walkons get in at the end and he doesn't????---whats the deal?

Posted by 55Vol on January 18, 2008 at 7:42 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Nice win. Don't read too many press clippings because Ohio State is up in short order. Glad Pearl got Chism's attention, at least for last night. When he plays the 5 as it should be, it helps the team offensively overall and his defense was superb on Olgilvy. Glad to also see CLo get a couple of tres. Keep focused Vols.

Posted by jandjhome on January 18, 2008 at 7:44 a.m. (Suggest removal)

There was no joy in the Peabody Dorm last night.

Posted by LazhilUT on January 18, 2008 at 7:58 a.m. (Suggest removal)

This team is awesome and Chism finally played like a power player!
As for the crowd TommyJack, sounds like you're one of the quiet people in the arena.
Basketball arenas are supposed to be loud, to the point you can't hear your thoughts!
The oponnents and their fans should be intimidated and afraid of cheering for their team because our crowd's noise scared them.

Posted by hueypilot on January 18, 2008 at 7:59 a.m. (Suggest removal)

It would be nice to hear from someone who was actually at the game. Hard to get a handle on just how much the crowd was into it from TV. Looked to me like the crowd was into it when we were doing well, not so much when Vandy was closing the gap.

Posted by wvuvolfan on January 18, 2008 at 8:08 a.m. (Suggest removal)

i was there. the crowd got into the vandy comeback when they got the lead down to 10-11 pts. great night of UT BB.

Posted by lnbadger320 on January 18, 2008 at 8:11 a.m. (Suggest removal)

hueypilot you are right, you couldn't tell at all how loud it was there from watching it on tv.

that place was rocking last night.

those esp announcers were terrible last night, especially in the fist half.

if we shoot decent that first half, we're up by 20 going into half time. Vandy couldn't not match our defense, we just didn't shoot well that first half.

Posted by mparker on January 18, 2008 at 8:11 a.m. (Suggest removal)

okay, watched the game (sort of) on espn360. pretty jumpy onver the internet for some reasons...

any way, it wasn't the blowout the score indicated. Vandy really had some chance to make a game of it, even at the 2 minute mark.

The return match at VU will be tough, I believe.

Hard to tell, but seemed like pretty good sportsmanship on the floor.

Good job by Ramar with the free throws. BAD job by wayne in the same department.

As for Waeyn, he still plays like a kid, which is what he is. If the kid stay healthy, he's gonna be a FORCE as a man. Can you imagine how dominant he could be in a couple of yaars??

good win, glad the vols toughed it out.

Posted by mparker on January 18, 2008 at 8:16 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Chris Lofton:
he continues to do a lot of little things to help his team. I saw him be the outlet time and again for players in trouble. His shooting has slipped, but his GAME is better.

The more I see him, the more I think these two things:
-he's workig hard for a deep NCAA run
-he probably WON"T be an NBA player. I hope I'm wrong, for his financial future. I REALLY hope I'm wrong.

Chris and JaJuan helped turn this team around, both theose guys are special in UT history.

Posted by iowavol on January 18, 2008 at 8:26 a.m. (Suggest removal)

It truly is unbelievable that anyone can gripe about anything, fans, refs, players after this game. VOLBALL, you are spot on. The only time Pearl gets into the players faces is for defense and standing around. If you hustle, the man let's em do their thing on the court. I thought a couple of times he would come unglued with Chism running the break and not giving up the ball to Ramar or Jordan, but no, he applauded even when the alley oop line drive when out of bounds. What marguee player is not going to want to play for him.

Posted by King53 on January 18, 2008 at 9:10 a.m. (Suggest removal)

As far as seeding...most bracketologists have us a strong 2 seed. But seeding takes care of its self. If we win the SEC, we will have a number one seed, if not, I can not see us worse than a two seed unless we just fall flat on our face. If that is the case, then Pearl will have two seeds of 2 or better in his three years here. Pretty impressive. But, the kicker will be, what do we do with the seed?

Posted by KENVOL on January 18, 2008 at 9:11 a.m. (Suggest removal)

What a GREAT WIN!!!! If I'm not mistaken and I hope I'm not. I believe Lofton is coming back. His second 3 just had confidence written all over it. I just wished he would have taken a few more after that. Just to keep it going. GOOOOOOOOO Vols!!!!!!!

Posted by cazfree58 on January 18, 2008 at 9:14 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I wish everyone would just leave Chris alone. He is fine doing what he is doing. He's playing good D and he is drawing players his way when he is on offense...which allows the others more open looks. Chris will be fine and he is contributing, though in a different way than in the past two years. I wish the idiots that sit near us at the games, that yell "Shoot it, Chris!!" every time he even touches the ball no matter where he is on the court, would smarten up and shut up. Oh and they also compare some of the plays to football which really kills me! So even though we have the grannies and granpas in the lower level, we have some realy idiots in the nose bleed.

GO VOLS - Beat O H I O !!!!

Posted by Vols37922 on January 18, 2008 at 9:16 a.m. (Suggest removal)

It was a great win last night. I only see two things this team needs to improve on to be a Final 4, national championship calibur team - rebounding and free throw percentage.

We out rebounded Vandy last night 42-37, but I think that's because Ogilvy was in foul trouble for Vandy. Our free throw percentage last night was 58.3% (14-24). That is horrible! Someone make Chism work on his free throws. He's under 50%. You have to make free throws to advance deep in the tournament.

If the Vols improve those two things, UT is Final 4 bound!

Posted by wvuvolfan on January 18, 2008 at 9:25 a.m. (Suggest removal)

i think CL may have turned a corner last night. he made 2 timely 3 ptrs and a good drive to the bucket. pearl jumped him after he putzed with the ball and almost ran the 35 clock out. the fire came on after that chewing. keep digging CL.

Posted by threehundredbowler on January 18, 2008 at 9:29 a.m. (Suggest removal)

jraymond,you think you know everything.

Posted by dlns on January 18, 2008 at 9:30 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Most likely Tabb did not play because CBP is protecting his redshirt. Why waste a year of eligibility on a few meaningless minutes in a ROMP of Vandy...this year is exciting, but we can't forget that we loose the entire backcourt when it's over. There's something special brewing here, for YEARS to come!

Posted by DSaVol on January 18, 2008 at 9:30 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Absolutely sweet win! And for those that want to bitch about the fans I got 2 things for ya -

1. TBA was rockin most of the night and certainly when it counted. Don't forget that there are things called "crowd mikes."

2. Buy a damned ticket or STFU! You can't bitch about those of us that are there if you're too damned cheap to join in.

And finally for everybody's favorite clown - JW - what Best Buy store were you watching that big ole tv in??? Amazing they've allowed you to come there for every game for 2 whole years. Was it rockin' in there?

Posted by AlpharettaVol on January 18, 2008 at 9:38 a.m. (Suggest removal)

The announcers referred a couple of times to the fact that Duke Crews might be ready to get back in the game against Ohio State. I noticed he was dressed out last night but did not play. Anybody know anything about his progress?

Posted by cazfree58 on January 18, 2008 at 9:48 a.m. (Suggest removal)

jwraymond1 - we don't have ENOUGH of the right people/fans in the lower sections that are seen on TV. We make a lot of noise up in the 300's...but who ever sees that??? We need more of the students down low and the old ticketholders (and I don't just mean age-wise!) to give up their seats to us fans that will bring it every game...no matter what!

Posted by rbhobbs73 on January 18, 2008 at 9:49 a.m. (Suggest removal)

mparker,

I do suggest moving up to DVR for your recordings...it makes the process much easier...no tapes mean a better picture...because that game was sure fun to watch in HI-DEF!

Go Vols!!

Payback the Ohowihateohiostate and pound the mildcats!

Posted by pdhuff on January 18, 2008 at 9:57 a.m. (Suggest removal)

dfreeman 12:09 Great win - Tennessean.con has new format - I can't log in either. I sent prains@tennessean.com a blivet asking for help. You might try the same. He's the poo-bah. Go Vols

Posted by TommyJack on January 18, 2008 at 10 a.m. (Suggest removal)

LazzieFrat: Your post was about what I would expect from you. Did you watch the game down at "the House" while pumping a keg? Grow up you immature loser.

JWRainman: Surprised your tin walls would support a big, heavy HDTV. You use duct tape for extra support?

Bruce ball rocks.

Posted by JAJUAN on January 18, 2008 at 10:03 a.m. (Suggest removal)

WHO'S THE IDIOT NOW, STALLINGS?

THE BRUCE IS LOOSE!!

Posted by wvuvolfan on January 18, 2008 at 10:05 a.m. (Suggest removal)

i've lived in ktown for 20 some years. i went to school at WVU. the one thing i'ved noticed in all the years of going to UT games, BB or FB, is UT does not have a 'signature cheer' like georgetowns 'let's go hoyas, or Penn States.' we are PS. UT needs to develope a signature cheer. get it's cheerleaders more involved. Have the volunteer out on the floor every time out waving the UT flag or better yet, firing his musket. WVU has a mountaineer that fires his at BB games. .

Posted by inswhiz on January 18, 2008 at 10:05 a.m. (Suggest removal)

GREAT WIN!!! We need to do better on our foul shooting. That will be the diff if we make it to final 4 or not. In tight tourney games in March diff between a win and a loss will be foul shooting. If I was Pearl I would make them shoot 300 foul shots a day! Great defense though and good to see Lofton starting to come around. Like I have said before as long as he peaks in March thats ok with me.

Posted by KingsportVol on January 18, 2008 at 10:22 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Awesome game.I did not get to go last night had to work late.4 guy's I work with were in 103 row 1 right under the basket and said the crowd did a great job.I agree with a couple of you guy's.You can't really tell how loud the crowd is if your not there.Turning up the volume on the TV doesn't help.I would also like to comment on Duke Crews.What a team player.He was the 1st on off the bench when time outs were called to keep the team pumped up.I really hope he is well enough to rejoin the team soon Beat the Buck out of Ohio State.Go Big Orange!!!

Posted by dfreeman on January 18, 2008 at 10:24 a.m. (Suggest removal)

pd - thanks!! I'll have to do that, did you get a response??

Posted by ewhite on January 18, 2008 at 10:36 a.m. (Suggest removal)

From all of us in Nashville, way to Kick vandy's butts! Good job by coaches and players!

Posted by fundamentals83 on January 18, 2008 at 10:51 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Anybody else notice Tyler Smith's defensive intensity? It seems like he has really stepped up in several areas over the last couple of games. MVP of team to date IMO.

Posted by bigorangedude on January 18, 2008 at 11:05 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Vols are looking great. That Memphis game in February is now looking like a final 4 preview

Posted by DSaVol on January 18, 2008 at 11:09 a.m. (Suggest removal)

jw - so you live 11 hrs away. What's the problem? I live 11 hours from Columbus - was there last year. 10 hours from Memphis - will be there next month. Many hours from Baton Rouge, Starkville, Fayetteville, Gainesville, Lexington, etc. Been to ALL of them the last 3 years and will be at ALL of them this year. Sounds like you're making excuses again so just STFU! As for your so-called friends, I don't give a rat's ass what anybody else's fans think of ours on TV - the only thing that matters is what the other team thinks and last night - like the previous 24 home games - they could only think about gettin' their ass whipped.

Posted by rbhobbs73 on January 18, 2008 at 11:16 a.m. (Suggest removal)

wvuvolfan,

Our cheer is V...O...L...S....V.O.L.S. Go Vols Go!

we also have that little song....Rocky Top You'll Always Be...Home Sweet Home to Me....Good Ole Rocky Top (i still hate the "whew")...Rocky Top Tennessee!

These are our cheers...no you can practice. Welcome to the Vol Family!

These are much better than "Let's Go Hoyas" and "We are Penn State".

Go Vols!

Posted by wvuvolfan on January 18, 2008 at 11:22 a.m. (Suggest removal)

rb
the VOLS thing only comes up once a game and rocky top can't be played while the game is in progress. i'm talking about a cheer while the game is being played to help pump up the boys. been a BB season ticket holder 3 years, FB 10. Put 2 children thru UT. My roots are from TN 8 gens. I have been part of the VOL family for a couple of decades. Didn't say Gtown and PS had better cheers, just that they do it doing the game. Just making a suggestion. Lighten up.

Posted by johnlg00 on January 18, 2008 at 11:26 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Great game last night and great news about Duke coming back soon! Chism really showed me something! Based on his post-game interview, he is a guy who does it his way, no matter what. I'm just glad he seems to rise to a challenge. He will have another one Saturday against OSU's Koufos. It is so great to be a Vol BB fan, even though I am marooned in NC these days. Right now, I even think the Vols could take UNC. They are big, long, and fast, but their ball-handling is vulnerable right now with the loss of their starting point guard for the season. They have about six guys who are as good as anyone in the country, but they don't have our depth or overall quickness. They BARELY survived Clemson and GaTech, and the Vols would kill both of them.

Posted by Bristol on January 18, 2008 at 11:38 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Hey Jajuan, AWESOME game, keep it up you guys.... Your fan from the Atlanta airport.

Posted by dfreeman on January 18, 2008 at 11:41 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Anyone remember AIRFORCEONE?? He's a Kentucky fan that has come here to talk trash!! Here is where you can find him and his band of idiots!!

http://forums.kentucky.com/n/mb/messa....

He even commented on us there as well!!

Posted by Chainsaw on January 18, 2008 at 11:50 a.m. (Suggest removal)

"It would be nice to hear from someone who was actually at the game. Hard to get a handle on just how much the crowd was into it from TV. Looked to me like the crowd was into it when we were doing well, not so much when Vandy was closing the gap."

I'm at all the home games. The students generally are always "into it". The rest of the crowd, not so much. They'll stand up when a big play is made on offense, but will generally not make any noise when we're on defense unless the other team is making a run. I think watching on TV you get a distorted view because the microphone is near the court, and that means it's going to pick up a lot of the student section due to their proximity to the court.

Notable exceptions to this were, TX last year (especially during OT), FL, and KY.

Posted by Pops on January 18, 2008 at 12:37 p.m. (Suggest removal)

LOFTON IS BACK....BY GOD HE's Back...

Posted by iowavol on January 18, 2008 at 1:11 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I think part of the (presumed) problem with fan loudness, is that Hamilton has put most of the cheering up in the rafters. I'm not sure, but I think the entire bottom of Cameron Stadium is for students. If we NEED to do anything different, it's where we place the big contributors who may be a little to on in age to cheer that much.

Posted by givehim6 on January 18, 2008 at 1:31 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I heard the announcer say last night, he could think of 3 or 5 teams in the country that might beat TN. Keep the good times rolling!!!

GO VOLS!

Posted by daddyaxe on January 18, 2008 at 1:49 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Hope that Chris is now wanting to find his ryhthm. He hasn't worked for a shot lately as he needed to, but his defense has spoke for itself. Coach Pearl is the best in the nation. His timeouts are at the perfect times. He knows when to get on them and when to sit them down. I hope you guys on here realize what kind of coach that we are so forunate to have at UT. Keep them focused coach. Tell them what hard work will and is giving them. I think that there is an solid chance of running the table in the SEC and getting a number one seed in the tournament..
GO VOLS

Posted by rbhobbs73 on January 18, 2008 at 2:09 p.m. (Suggest removal)

wvuvol,

I wasn't trying to give you a hard time at all. You didn't mention your 8 generation connection...blaa, blaa, blaa...You asked about cheers.

I simply stated our 2 biggest cheers to help you out. I also welcomed you to the family. I can't get much lighter than that....

As for cheers while the game is going....we don't need any. Just yell our heads off.

Good Day!

Posted by wvuvolfan on January 18, 2008 at 2:36 p.m. (Suggest removal)

must not have read my original note rb, said i have been going to games for years. already know all the words to rocky top. i don't need your help, but thought the boys do. disagree about the cheers. hope you have a great day.

Posted by wvuvolfan on January 18, 2008 at 2:36 p.m. (Suggest removal)

must not have read my original note rb, said i have been going to games for years. already know all the words to rocky top. i don't need your help, but thought the boys do. disagree about the cheers. hope you have a great day.

Posted by KnoxVol_in_TX on January 18, 2008 at 2:40 p.m. (Suggest removal)

jwraymond - I typically cant stand your comments re: UT football, but you are absolutely right about our crowd.

I have had an opportunity to watch all but one game for UT bball, and I keep telling myself, when we play a more important game, the fans will really show up.

They haven't yet. I seem to get louder standing in front of my tv than they do in a multi million dollar arena.

C'mon Vols, get rid of the pride and get crazy out there!!!

Posted by ge446 on January 18, 2008 at 2:47 p.m. (Suggest removal)

It wasn't so much a rabbitt OSU pulled out of the hat as it was them taking it to the rim with their super quick freshman guard, who was a one and gone, and us either fouling him , him making the shot or us fouling him as he was making the shot. That is exactly how they beat us both times, with us having a fairly poor shooting night and poorer shooting night from the line. They were in the two shot foul situation within the first 5 minutes of the second half. Hope for better results this Sat. I know that UT will play the UT game and if we play it well we should win....l Go Vols!!!!

Posted by THE_VOL on January 18, 2008 at 3:04 p.m. (Suggest removal)

dfreeman - why would we even think about giving AirForceOne ANY attention? He's a bigger moron than jw, yabababble and redneck combined!

iowavol - obviously you've never been to Cameron @ Duke. First it only holds about 9000 people. They have temporary bleacher seats around the floor for students only and everything is right on top of the court. As a physical facility it's pretty much a dump. But the mere size of it is what creates all the atmosphere and makes it seem alot louder than it is. Duke could easily fill it's own "Dean Dome" but they will lose a whole bunch of mystique if/when they do.

Posted by jevolball7 on January 18, 2008 at 9:49 p.m. (Suggest removal)

News is, Duke is cleared to practice. He's been at the shoot arounds,just wasn't allowed to do anything exerting. I have heart palpitations and a murmer. He's 19,he won't take long to get back. I'm far from a doctor,but Id say he will start seeing minutes by the KY game and get more every game,as needed. Barring a set back. The missing final piece is about to complete the puzzle!!! FINAL 4!