Posted by vol1994 on January 20, 2008 at 11:13 p.m. (Suggest removal)

skin the Cats and bring home a W.
Coach Pearl's stock is rising after every single game. I sure hope he decides to stay as I have a feeling he will receive some lucrative offers from other schools after the season.

I am so impressed with his coaching style and allowing the kids Play and make mistakes unlike other coaches- Bobby knight, Coach K, and even Roy Williams. He alows his kids to play wihtout a conscience.

go Vols!

Posted by TurboFan on January 20, 2008 at 11:19 p.m. (Suggest removal)

"The Vols of 2000-01 also posted a 16-1 start."

And then everything went to hell in a handbasket.

Let's purge that from our memories please.

Posted by yabadabadoo1026 on January 20, 2008 at 11:49 p.m. (Suggest removal)

he going nowhere--its obvious he loves it here, is immerced in the Knoxville community and his blood runs as orange as anyones and he could be here for life if he choses --BP likes a big stage and we have it---he cant be bought away from Tenn, we wouldnt let that happen

Posted by johnlg00 on January 21, 2008 at 12:08 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Looks like a good time to go Lexington. The 'Cats will be tired from the rough stretch of recent games, since they don't have as much depth as we do. I know they will give it their best in front of the home fans, but they could be too psyched up to compensate for fatigue. If their early adrenaline rush wears them out, and the Vols go in with their A game, it could get ugly for the 'Cats. If we go in overconfident, it could be a rough night for us. As for me, I can't wait. Go Vols!

Posted by Kwitcherbellyachin on January 21, 2008 at 12:08 a.m. (Suggest removal)

"The No. 6 Vols might also match - or surpass - the highest ranking in the program's history (No. 4) when the Associated Press poll comes out today."

I don't think there's any question that they will at LEAST be ranked 4th.

Posted by bugman on January 21, 2008 at 12:26 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Hamilton isn't losing Bruce Pearl after renovating the arena. He will match or beat any offer from another program.

Posted by ut_volfan on January 21, 2008 at 12:31 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Last time we were 16-1 and ranked #4 we went to Rupp and got spanked. I was there. Not fun at all. I hate the 'over rated' chant, especially when it's directed towards the Vols. This is a different UT team, and CERTAINLY a different UK team. Let's hope the result is different as well.

Posted by chrisw2967 on January 21, 2008 at 12:35 a.m. (Suggest removal)

all we can do is hope that BP doesnt go no place and stays with Tenn , but some school will throw an offer out there that he might not be able to refuse and all Tenn can do is match it. but myself Im not thinking that way cause anything can happen this year just like it did in 2001.
I hope Duke gets a few minutes and slowly works his way back in the rotation and Lofton is slowly finding his groove again (I hope)

Posted by johnlg00 on January 21, 2008 at 12:45 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Chris, the only way we could collapse like we did in 2001 is if half the team breaks a leg--God forbid! This team is mentally tougher than any UT team I have ever seen. It is a team that may lose a game, but it will not be beaten. The defensive consistency and tenacity is simply amazing. We may not execute perfectly all the time, every game, but we have not yet failed to compete, at least since the last 10 minutes of the Texas game. I wonder if they would like to play us now!

Posted by CatScratchFever on January 21, 2008 at 12:50 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Pearl is putting himself into a good spot for renegotiating his contract. If he makes a good show in March, then he could fetch 2 mil. I think. The thing I feel though that will get him within the next few years will be the call of the NBA.

Tuesday looks to be interesting. If Kentucky is not too tired physicaly and mentally from the Florida game, then it should be close. Patterson was limping pretty bad at the end of that game. Meeks and Jasper are 70% at best.

Posted by FWBVol on January 21, 2008 at 1:11 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I don't see Pearl leaving UT for another college job. UT has done everything he's wanted and then some as far as upgrading the facilities and such. UT has deep enough pockets to match any other offer he would get.

The handful of programs that might be more attractive than we are...UNC, UCLA, Kansas, Duke and a few others, have good coaching situations already.

Pearl has proven loyal to the other schools where he has coached, and I don't see that changing at UT. He seems happy to be here, and if he continues to field the kind of teams he has his first few years, he might one day replace Ray Mears as the greatest coach in Vol basketball history.

Posted by chrisw2967 on January 21, 2008 at 2:10 a.m. (Suggest removal)

johnlg000. I really dont see us having a collapse like we did in 2001 but we can never say never , we have too much talent and we have a coach that I dont think that will let that happen and UT should rework his contract if he does well in March and Im like you about the NBA . As fae as Texas goes I really doubt they would like to play us right now or next month even.

Posted by chrisw2967 on January 21, 2008 at 2:55 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I meant to say as far as Texas goes in my earlier post...my bad

Posted by pdhuff on January 21, 2008 at 7:10 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Beat Kentucky. Period.

Posted by marc_ash on January 21, 2008 at 7:28 a.m. (Suggest removal)

The faithful fans that attended UT basketball over the MANY years the did not do well are not your young fans of today. Being a season ticket holder, I wish the arena was more energetic. But you have to remember, all of the new and excited Vol fans (that didn't go to the games when the team was losing) are not the Vol fans that have attended over the decades they have lost.

Most of the ticket holders are the older faithful that have attended for many years. Respect that idea and in time, the excitement will return.

Posted by 55Vol on January 21, 2008 at 7:37 a.m. (Suggest removal)

This is confusing.... Pearl CLEARLY states the fans were, and I quote, " Phenomenal ". Yet many posters say it was something less than that. From watching it on TV, the crowd got quieter when we didn't play as well in some of those spurts in the 2nd half, but it was rowdy when the team needed a pick-me-up late in the game and was rowdy for the first half. Was Pearl wrong in his assessment?

Posted by MOOREVOLS on January 21, 2008 at 7:59 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I was at the Ohio State and Vandy games and in both games the crowd was very good, but not great. I measure great by the crowds we had at home against Florida and Kentucky last year. The crowds for those two games were the best I've ever seen at Thompson-Boling. Still, the Ohio State and Vandy crowds were very good.

Posted by lnbadger320 on January 21, 2008 at 8:05 a.m. (Suggest removal)

it's hard to tell how loud the crowd it. because they don't increase the noise on TV. i know when OH was coming back it looked more quiet. i guess it was because people were getting nervous.

Posted by LazhilUT on January 21, 2008 at 8:12 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Pearl has a pretty hefty buyout clause and he said he won't leave for another SEC school. which would leave the other big schools and in my opinion the ones worth going to are not going to let go their coaches right now: UNC, Duke, Georgetown, Kansas, Memphis...he's staying.

Posted by 55Vol on January 21, 2008 at 8:16 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Pearl is the type of coach who has the talent to move on to the NBA and be successful. If he wins the NC at Tenn. he could move on if the situation was right for him.

Posted by rccheek on January 21, 2008 at 8:22 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Why are you people even talking about Pearl leaving? That should be a BANNED topic!!!

Posted by pdhuff on January 21, 2008 at 8:34 a.m. (Suggest removal)

rccheek 8:22 a.am. Agree. Phil should have given his mil $$ to Pearl, not Hamilton. Man has Vols rocking right now. Dread KY, though. We'll see.

Posted by ssukonic on January 21, 2008 at 8:37 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I'm wondering how the rotation will work as Duke Crews works his way back into playing time. I think Brian Williams has done more than anyone probably expected. He'll need to continue to get SOME playing time to continue to develop. I'm wondering how Coach Pearl will handle this. I'm wondering if we'll ever see two of those three guys in there at the same time. Obviously, that should help in the rebounding department. However, at the same time, it probably wouldn't help the full court press and the offense we run right now. It'll be fun to see what Coach Pearl does regarding this. You don't want to screw up the chemistry and I'd guess the "ain't broke, don't fix it" mantra comes into play.

Posted by Basketball_Jones on January 21, 2008 at 9:05 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Unfortunatly I had to watch the game on TV and the crwod in the 1st 4 rows seemed to be just sitting there. I hope this arena isn't going to be like Neyland, where all the big money folks go to the games as a social status thing and sit there and talk about where tier going to spend the summer. I said this when Pearl talked about placing students in certain areas. Do as Duke does. Make the 1st 5 rows behind the benches for students as well as under the basket. Put the pep band under the other basket. Its pretty embarrassing to see our team in a close game on National TV and the fans closest to the court are just sitting down.

Posted by King53 on January 21, 2008 at 9:30 a.m. (Suggest removal)

When it's all said and done, Pearl will be TN Basketball like coach K is for Duke and Dean Smith is for UNC.

Posted by Chainsaw on January 21, 2008 at 9:48 a.m. (Suggest removal)

"This is confusing.... Pearl CLEARLY states the fans were, and I quote, " Phenomenal ". Yet many posters say it was something less than that."

I think Pearl means the arena was full, and not much more than that.

If you're watching on TV and want to get an idea about how "into it" the fans are, look at the first 5-10 rows when the camera is focused on the court. You'll rarely see those people stand up, clap, or yell.

Posted by Basketball_Jones on January 21, 2008 at 9:53 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I never said that the other 20k were not great but those 1st few rows are a bunch of old rich folks. I know this as well cause my 80+ year old grandparents have tickets there. I get asked to sit down so much when I use their tickets. Its tha same way at football games. I remember last year it was like 3rd a goal and I was standing up yelling and the man behind me with his wife said "excuse me we can't see" I politiely told them they would have a better view if they watched from home.

Posted by TommyJack on January 21, 2008 at 10 a.m. (Suggest removal)

heels_fan-23: then you were out of line.

Posted by ellisonfamily on January 21, 2008 at 10:10 a.m. (Suggest removal)

One of the things for which we can be thankful is that Bruce Pearl did not play basketball at a Kansas, UNC, UK, or some other big time NCAA program. Tennessee has done a lot to be sure we are an elite basketball program, so BP has the tools. Thankfully we won't have to worry like Kansas did with Roy Williams, that his big time, alma mater comes calling. You think Roy Williams would have left Kansas for his alma mater, if his alma mater was Austin Peay? You think Tubby Smith would have left UGA if his favorite school were West Georgia College? Thankfully, we don't have that worry with Pearl. I believe, when BP and Pat Summit are done, we may have an elite basketball program (men and women's) that rivals Duke, UNC, Kansas, etc... That's just my take on it.

Posted by CatScratchFever on January 21, 2008 at 10:13 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Just curious, does anyone know how much Pearl's $$ package is annually?

Posted by ssukonic on January 21, 2008 at 10:33 a.m. (Suggest removal)

TDTN: So, you think that Crews and Chism will split time and Williams will have the other half of the time or so?

Posted by Basketball_Jones on January 21, 2008 at 10:35 a.m. (Suggest removal)

TJ please answer me this. Why should I be required to sit down during a sporting event just because the people behind me don't feel like standing up?

As a fan, if a person pays good money to go see an event they have the right to stand-up if they feel like it. I mean crap this isn't a Barry Manilow concert. We're talking major college atheltics and during key moments in the game I should sit down? WTF?

Posted by TommyJack on January 21, 2008 at 10:47 a.m. (Suggest removal)

heels_fan: Then I'll ask you. Why do they put seats in these places? There's a huge difference, man. When you're standing up, you're blocking their view. Who's view are they blocking when they sit? What part of "major college athletics" gives you the right to infringe on their rights?
I'm not talking about standing and screaming after a big play...that's cool. It's the constant (hey look at me) standing that is out of line. Plus, it's just bad manners. Lastly, why don't YOU stay home and watch on TV? The conduct you condone is just another sign of the decline in civility in our culture. Thanks for being part of it.

Posted by kyvol98 on January 21, 2008 at 10:53 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Heels_fan was not in the wrong. You pay your $$$$, so stand if you want.
Had he been obnoxious in saying it then I would think he is out of line.
If people stand in front of me, then I either stand or miss it.
As for Tuesday, I'll be there doing my best to make it TBA North!

Posted by dirtdobber1 on January 21, 2008 at 11:07 a.m. (Suggest removal)

STAND UP AND YELL! If your that bad off and cant stand up, you need to stay home anyway or go get some therapy so you can!

There should be a speacial viewing area for people that get mad if someone stands up in front of them..."the living room at their home!"

Posted by dirtdobber1 on January 21, 2008 at 11:09 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I bet TommyJack has a Hillary Clinton bumper sticker on his or her car!

Posted by TommyJack on January 21, 2008 at 11:11 a.m. (Suggest removal)

dirtdobber: thanks for proving my point.

Posted by Hunter on January 21, 2008 at 11:11 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Usually when someone in front stands, the people behind them instinctively follow. Therefore, it is my request that anyone with unlimited funds buyout all front row seats in TBA and stand incessantly, forcing the remainder of the crowd to stand and turn TBA into a pit of despair for all who enter!!!

Or just stand when it's REALLY exciting and ya just can't help it anymore. Either way sounds like a winner to me......

Posted by knoxvegas75 on January 21, 2008 at 11:14 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Tommy Jack - your just WRONG!!!

If anyone purchases a ticket they should be able to stand up, sit down, stand on their hands, or what ever they want to do in that small area they PAYED for. This argument you came up with....why do they put the seats there then....ummm so if you want to sit down you can duh.....just think of how bad sporting events would be and how many clase games would be lost if our stadiums were full of you and your non standing friends.

As far as I am concerned I would rather have a loud drunk frat boy standing up then an 75 year old alum in his seat. Its called pride and passion for a sporting event and if you have lost it then you can go spend your season tickets on a 60 LCD and Surround Sound and then sit all you want.

Heels_fan how about the loss. lol just had to through that out.
lol sry

Posted by TommyJack on January 21, 2008 at 11:22 a.m. (Suggest removal)

knoxvegas: What are you, 15? I never said a word about never standing up. Just said that I don't pay my money to see the azz-end of some attention seeking fool for the length of the game. Bulletin, pal. The game ain't about you being seen.

Posted by ATLVOLFAN on January 21, 2008 at 11:27 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Way to go Vols! We keep playing good like this we can have two championships in Knoxville. By the end of the season both lady vols and vols can be rank number one if they keep playing good basketball. Good luck vols against Kentucky tomorrow.

Posted by dirtdobber1 on January 21, 2008 at 11:27 a.m. (Suggest removal)

TommyJack: are you a Vandy fan?

Posted by inswhiz on January 21, 2008 at 11:34 a.m. (Suggest removal)

agree with you totally knoxvegas, passion and pride from fans is what spurs on a team to accomplish some things they didnt know was possible. Pearl has them on right track and hopefully come March we will be on the final four track. Dont worry about Tarheels, they will be in final four if not win it all.

Posted by knoxvegas75 on January 21, 2008 at 11:43 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Nope not 15 -25 though

It is not your place to complain about that... They paid for their seats they can do what they want unless it is illigal or offensive. I heard in the new boxes you don't have to stand up...trying pooling your alum friends season tickets and buy a box.

Pearl has brought the passion back to the fan base. It is becasue of this we can win games like Mississippi, Ohio St, and other close calls. It is his passion that has been absorbed by most fans (Tommy_Jack excluded) and the result is a louder and better arena atmosphere.

Posted by dirtdobber1 on January 21, 2008 at 11:45 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Hey Knoxvegas, the only time that TommyJack stands up is during the national anthem.

TommyJack, we just want it to be loud in the gym-and in order for it to be the loudest the people near the floor need to get into the game more! Your just going to have to agree to agree with us on this point. Agreed?

Posted by knoxvegas75 on January 21, 2008 at 11:45 a.m. (Suggest removal)

illegal....

Posted by LongtimeVol on January 21, 2008 at 11:46 a.m. (Suggest removal)

TommyJack, I agree with you but an appeal to civility on this site is an exercise in futility. It is simply incomprehensible to most who post here that one should show consideration to another person if it in anyway interferes with their view of what it means to be a Vol fan. That includes a special intolerance of criticism (or even questions) about the direction of the some aspects of the program. So, screaming like a banshee at all times, undying devotion to the head coach, and rebuking anyone who doesn't is what constitutes a "true Vol fan". I sat two rows behind that obnoxious woman last year that got so much press and as you say, that cheering was all about her and not the team or the game. We are all glad that lasted only one year.

Posted by knoxvegas75 on January 21, 2008 at 11:48 a.m. (Suggest removal)

there you tommy_Jack you got the second member of your BOX CLUB

1. Tommy_Jack
2. LongtimeVol

Only a few more then it is peace and quiet and lobster cocktail and the vandy game on as well....

Posted by dirtdobber1 on January 21, 2008 at 11:58 a.m. (Suggest removal)

LongtimeVol- well put- couldnt agree you less- Go Vandy!

Posted by justbware on January 21, 2008 at 11:59 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Congrats on your high ranking and Duke maybe coming back, but how about those #1 ranked MEMPHIS TIGERS!!? Looking forward to next month in the Bluff City!

Posted by TommyJack on January 21, 2008 at noon (Suggest removal)

Knoxvegas: Are you a shift mgr at a Pilot station?

Longtime: Thanks.

Dirt: re noise...agreed. no problem with noise.

Posted by dirtdobber1 on January 21, 2008 at 12:01 p.m. (Suggest removal)

justbware- Memphis really put it to MTSU beating them by 25. The vols beat em by 70! Good luck in Confernce USA and Southern Miss!

Posted by knoxvegas75 on January 21, 2008 at 12:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)

nope whouldn't lower my standards to work for a below average failing knoxville based gas company.....no I can use my double degree with honors from UT to get a better job or my MBA at a major university.

Justbware.... have you seen the polls yet???

Memphis is a great team in a horrible conference...will they beat Tennessee at home in Feb...it is a toss up but home court in the Fed EX Forum is a great enviroment and advantage for the Tigers, just like we are trying to do at TB Arena. Should be a great one, hope the vols can pull it off....but I do hope it is 1-2 Matchup so the loser doesnt fall much....

Posted by LazhilUT on January 21, 2008 at 12:11 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Knoxvegas I agree 100%.
Let's make Thompson Boling Arena turn into madness!
Let the drunks free!
Let the kids go crazy!
Let the other team's fans be scared!
MADNESS! CRAZINESS! FEAR!!!

Posted by romevol on January 21, 2008 at 12:13 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I've got the solution...stand at home in front of the TV. Win-Win.

Posted by knoxvegas75 on January 21, 2008 at 12:15 p.m. (Suggest removal)

MADNESS!!!!!!!!!

Thats exactly what we need more of !!!

We need to move all the loud students to the front 5 rows of the entire arena.

that would be madness!!

Posted by romevol on January 21, 2008 at 12:19 p.m. (Suggest removal)

knoxvegas75 - I like it. Bring it up at the next board meeting.

Posted by Basketball_Jones on January 21, 2008 at 12:31 p.m. (Suggest removal)

OK TJ, if yu will go back and read my original post. I was talking about crucial moments in the game. Now I used the example of it being 3rd and goal, it was a big moment and this guy wanted me to sit. WHATEVER! It has nothing to do with being seen, I'm not the bikini girls from Green Bay. I don't bring signs to the games, I just feel when your team needs a defensive stop or the go on a 10-0 run get fired up and off your a$$ and show some support. Like I said before if you came to a game to sit on your behind then you coulda saved $75 and watched it at home.

Also do you not think that recruits see this stuff? I mean if you were a 17-18 year old kid being recruited by a major program and you came on your visit and saw the fans sitting and clapping would that appeal to you? Maybe if it was for a golf scholarship but not hoops or football. Stay home and watch it on TV if you can't stand and get behind your team in the tough moments of the game.

KNOXVEGAS I AGREE 100%

Posted by pdhuff on January 21, 2008 at 12:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I agree its hard not to stand up at times. I'm guilty of that. But I always think of "If we all sit, then we all can see". SRO seats are cheaper at most venures, for a reason.I think many jump up thinking someone in front of them is going to.

Thank the Lord they got rid of umbrellas for the most part. And the ciggies.

Posted by TurboFan on January 21, 2008 at 12:49 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Laz, "drunks"? "fans scared"? Are you talking about Knoxville or Baton Rouge?

If you bought tickets to see a movie at a theater and someone in front of you refused to sit down, I would think the usher could show that person the exit. You do not have rights just because you bought a ticket. TBA/UT grants those rights and can take them away.

I go to events to be entertained, not to be the entertainment. But I do stand when everyone else is standing and sit when everyone else is sitting.

Knoxvegas, can you sponsor me for #3 in that box?

Posted by Basketball_Jones on January 21, 2008 at 12:49 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Good insight CR. Cal is a whiny baby. I met him back when he was at UMASS. I was in Baton Rouge watching Shaq and Chris Jackson play against Georgia. Earlier that day UMass had played Tulane and Cal brought his kids (Marcus Camby and Co.) to the Maravich Center for the game, he sat right behind me and couple a friends. One of my buddies turned around and asked if they had one and Coach Cal with a big smart A&& smirk, laughed and said "What you thought we'd lose?" He was so arrogant. Let someoen remind Cal he has never won anything in coaching, never. He coaches teams in weak conferences and then they fold 100% of the time come the dance. Its, ok win or lose come Feb 23rd we'll be the better team in March and will win the SEC. Memphis will bow out in the Elite 8, again.

Posted by murrayvol on January 21, 2008 at 12:58 p.m. (Suggest removal)

TommyJack: Good job on the serial smackdowns. That was worth tuning in for.

And for the advancement of the blue hair cause, this tidbit. The folks in rows 1-10 and beyond are there because they've paid the freight for UT athletics (in good times and bad) for a long time. If they wish to sit that's okay by me. If they wish to stand I'll gladly help them up.

Posted by Indianavol on January 21, 2008 at 12:58 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Mike Hamilton is a genius for listening to Ernie Grunfeld and hiring Bruce Pearl. I love Pearl's enthusiasm and his coaching tenacity.

GO VOLS and LADY VOLS!

Posted by Volssux on January 21, 2008 at 1:02 p.m. (Suggest removal)

VolCR, Just remember your BS when you lose in Memphis. Its funny that you say Memphis folds in the NCAA's when they have lasted longer than UT over the past 3 years.

Posted by lepricon55 on January 21, 2008 at 1:06 p.m. (Suggest removal)

UT will continue to win as long as they play hard and hustle like they have been doing. UK better watch out and it will be nice when UT beats Memphis to end their home winning streak. Hopefully UT will go undefeated at home again this year too. Go Vols and BP is my homeboy..

Posted by Basketball_Jones on January 21, 2008 at 1:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Volsux, you are 100% right but the difference is we don't run around and act like we have won 4 or 5 NC's in hoops like Memphis and Coach Cal. To say you are a National Program...please tell me why? How many NC's have you even played for. I mean Kentucky(yes), Duke (yes), UNC (yes), Kansas (yes), Memphis your good for East Arkansas

Posted by Volssux on January 21, 2008 at 1:19 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Hey heels_fan play us home and home and lets see what happens. Coach Cal has to run his mouth to get noticed. Good or bad, if he didn't run his mouth would Memphis get the recruits or any attention? The answer is NO. If it was not for basketball Memphis would be solidly a mid-tier school playing in 2nd and 3rd tier bowls in football while floating between the NIT and lower seed NCAA's in basketball. I would love to see Memphis put more money into football but if there is no more money to spend then spend it on basketball!!!

Posted by pdhuff on January 21, 2008 at 1:21 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Has Pearl found anyone that can ride a unicycle? Can TDTN?

Posted by Basketball_Jones on January 21, 2008 at 1:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)

ESPN/Coaches Poll is out. Its Memphis, Kansas, Duke, UNC, Tennessee. I am not to suprised here, thought we would possibly jump to 4 but ESPN loves the ACC. Duke will lose to UNC and UNC will lose again. Tennessee won't and will hit the tourney at #1

Posted by knoxvegas75 on January 21, 2008 at 1:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)

"You do not have rights just because you bought a ticket. TBA/UT grants those rights and can take them away."

you are correct/incorrect "The University grants rights to the ticket holder that can be revoked or changed without notice." The rights are outlines determined to create a safe enjoyable experiance.

I do respect the alum who give thousands of dollars a year..and it is because of them we can afford to make renovations on our stadiums and arenas.

The original argument in this post about standing up had to do with critical moments like 3rd and goal.... Tommy_jack objected to a standing fan telling someone that they were not going to sit down even though the other fan couldn't see. I understand this is bad for the fan but it is part of the arena experiance.. It is of way more value to have fans standing, yelling, and being loud then it is to have them sit and be quiet.

Rich Alum Quiet Siting Box
1. Tommy_Jack
2. LongtimeVol
3. WD40plusVol (Sponsor: Knoxvegas75)
On your way there.....almost

Posted by Kwitcherbellyachin on January 21, 2008 at 1:27 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Echoing previous sentiment, I am not surprised that the coaches' poll shows us at #5. I wouldn't be surprised either if the AP poll had us at #3, but I'm predicting #4. FWIW, the CBS poll has us at #3, which is where I also believe we should be, based on past and present performance.

Posted by Basketball_Jones on January 21, 2008 at 1:28 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Like I said volsux I agree with you on alot but Cal acts like he has been a NC coach over and over. I mean if he's going to talk like that then win something besides Conf USA and the Atlantic 10.

This year Memphis is tough, I have to admit this but if they are on TV I watch cause they are that good, lets see them win it all before Cal acts like they're the second coming of the Jordan Bulls

Posted by knoxvegas75 on January 21, 2008 at 1:29 p.m. (Suggest removal)

3 is what we deserve period anything else is bias..... its ok as a UT fan I am use to it especialy from ESPN.

Lets go AP!!!!!!! Do it right!!!!!

Posted by dirtdobber1 on January 21, 2008 at 1:36 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Knoxvegas75- the last time I checked Cameron didnt have a bunch of dead weight sitting during the game/ Im not a Duke fan, but those fans lay the blueprint on how it should be.

Do you think a recruit enjoys seeing people sitting with a look on their face as if they have not had a bowel movement in weeks or maniac fans that have been camped out for weeks to get tickets STANDING AND YELLING for their team?

LongtimeVol and TommyJack this is not politics- its a sporting event! Get up and make some noise! I bet you guys support amnesty for illegals as well.

Posted by TommyJack on January 21, 2008 at 1:42 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I just lay it out there and let a few fools make my point.

Posted by knoxvegas75 on January 21, 2008 at 1:49 p.m. (Suggest removal)

how are we making your poin.... you don't have one

Posted by Kwitcherbellyachin on January 21, 2008 at 1:54 p.m. (Suggest removal)

One of the primary reasons I don't go to games in TBA anymore (when I am in town) is that I just wouldn't fit in with the bluehairs that sit on their hands all night while the game takes place. I'd be much more comfortable in the end zones with the students.

I think there is a happy medium here. There should be a "Geritol" section and a "Viagra" section, to use two pharmaceuticals as analogies. That way, the ones who don't like the excitement can stay seated, while the ones who can't sit down can act like crazies all game long.

I do agree that the most visible fans shouldn't be the ones that just sit there with no reaction. I just don't understand how you can't show some excitement at these games, but that's just me.

Posted by dirtdobber1 on January 21, 2008 at 1:55 p.m. (Suggest removal)

TommyJack- who's going to be Hillarys running mate?

Posted by yabadabadoo1026 on January 21, 2008 at 1:56 p.m. (Suggest removal)

rankings mean nothing this early--ask all the different #2s in football that were losing on a weekly basis

Posted by dirtdobber1 on January 21, 2008 at 1:57 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Kwitch- good post.

Posted by Basketball_Jones on January 21, 2008 at 1:57 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Dirtdobber said "Do you think a recruit enjoys seeing people sitting with a look on their face as if they have not had a bowel movement in weeks"

That is a Classic quote! It really cracks me up to see those people at games. When I was a student at UT, my friends and I would tailgate and you'd see those women out there with the orange sweaters, sitting outside their $300,000 Winnebagos with their orange "T" earings and you'd hear them talking and they all knew of one player "The QB". UT is the worse place I have ever seen about games being a status symbol. I have a cousin who drives up every home game from Nashville with her hubby to tailgate because its all status, never even steps foot in the stadium. SAD, sit on your hands TJ cause no one cares about the damn gossip at the country club you and your friends talk about at the games

Posted by GreeneVol on January 21, 2008 at 2:07 p.m. (Suggest removal)

ESPN/USA Today Poll
1. Memphis (21) 17-0 765
2. Kansas (10) 18-0 754
3. Duke 15-1 682
4. North Carolina 18-1 666
5. Tennessee 16-1 653
6. Washington State 16-1 620
7. UCLA 16-2 581
8. Indiana 16-1 565
9. Georgetown 14-2 543
10. Michigan State 16-2 517
11. Wisconsin 15-2 443
12. Texas 14-3 381
13. Vanderbilt 17-2 336
14. Butler 17-2 316
15. Mississippi 15-2 284
16. Texas A&M 15-3 280
17. Pittsburgh 15-3 267
18. Villanova 13-3 257
19. Dayton 14-2 203
20. Marquette 13-4 158
21. Stanford 15-3 151
22. Xavier 15-4 112
23. Drake 16-1 92
24. Saint Mary's 15-2 89
25. Clemson 14-4 84

Posted by knoxvegas75 on January 21, 2008 at 2:22 p.m. (Suggest removal)

ESPN.com Braketolgy

WOW!! ESPN RESPECT!!!!

TENNESSEE NOW A #1 SEAT

http://sports.espn.go.com/ncb/bracket...

Posted by tigervol9802 on January 21, 2008 at 2:34 p.m. (Suggest removal)

#3 in the AP poll!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Posted by tigervol9802 on January 21, 2008 at 2:36 p.m. (Suggest removal)

knoxvegas -

Even crazier - He has us a 1 in the east and shipping UNC out west. Never did I think someone would do that.

Posted by Kwitcherbellyachin on January 21, 2008 at 2:37 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I believe it was HeelsFan who said that Memphis would bow out in the Elite 8, not VolCR.

Posted by wskeen on January 21, 2008 at 2:38 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I'm sorry....I had no Idea the arena was reserved for only those who liked bouncing up and down for a couple of hours. Somehow, I had the mistaken idea that going to a basketball game was to see the whole game, the full court, hear the pep band, see the score board, things you can't see on a tv screen, etc. etc. I'll make sure I tell my more reserved friends they're really not welcome for games unless they can constantly block the view of the people behind them. Thank you so much for enlightening me.

Posted by TurboFan on January 21, 2008 at 2:39 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Now, Knoxvegas, does Tennessee have to sit in that "SEAT" or can they stand and dance around and go "woo-woo"?

Posted by GreeneVol on January 21, 2008 at 2:42 p.m. (Suggest removal)

AP Top 25
1. Memphis (49) 17-0 1,777
2. Kansas (23) 18-0 1,751
3. Tennessee 16-1 1,591
4. Duke 15-1 1,543
5. North Carolina 18-1 1,536
6. Washington State 16-1 1,442
7. Indiana 16-1 1,351
8. UCLA 16-2 1,312
9. Georgetown 14-2 1,235
10. Michigan State 16-2 1,175
11. Wisconsin 15-2 1,048
12. Texas 14-3 887
13. Pittsburgh 15-3 781
14. Vanderbilt 17-2 748
15. Butler 17-2 742
16. Dayton 14-2 567
17. Mississippi 15-2 529
18. Villanova 13-3 502
18. Texas A&M 15-3 502
20. Stanford 15-3 444
21. Marquette 13-4 332
22. Drake 16-1 313
23. Xavier 15-4 230
24. Arizona State 14-3 182
25. Baylor 15-2 173

Posted by Kwitcherbellyachin on January 21, 2008 at 2:46 p.m. (Suggest removal)

http://sports.espn.go.com/espnradio/p...

Listen to Glockner and Lunardi's podcast about the Vols.

I don't know about you guys, but I find it absolutely amazing to hear about and read about how respected Tennessee basketball is now.

Posted by warriorman86 on January 21, 2008 at 2:49 p.m. (Suggest removal)

knoxvegas75, i think you mean # 1 seed, mistakes like this show that tennessee doesn't have very many true basketball fans, mostly bandwagon jumpers. The only true fans we have are the ones that were there in the orange seats, along with 1000 other people. I would venture to guess you weren't one of them knoxvegas75. I could be wrong, and don't get me wrong I love having 21,000 at the Tommy Bowl for big games like on Saturday, but it makes me mad to see people talking like they're these basketball experts when they've only been true basketball fans for 2 1/2 years, if that. For example, on Saturday I'm at the game and the guy sitting next to me is analyzing the game, talking about how tennessee will probably blow out ohio state, and then he asks his buddy which one Lofton is. Then he's back to analyzing game, but before too long he asks the name of No. 1 on Tennessee. And his buddy doesn't even know. Sorry to get on such a rant, but all of these so called basketball fans really annoy me. I'm not picking on knoxvegas75 it just got me thinking about the way people have just jumped on the Bruce Pearl bandwagon.

Posted by knoxvegas75 on January 21, 2008 at 2:49 p.m. (Suggest removal)

lol - I know, but they show a home game in R&D ..weird though...
way to go AP i knew you would come through for us....

Go Vols.......

Posted by dirtdobber1 on January 21, 2008 at 2:50 p.m. (Suggest removal)

wskeen- i hear that Tommy-Jack is having a party at Morrisons Cafeteria for the next UT basketball game. I hear they have great jello!

Posted by bleed_orange on January 21, 2008 at 3:02 p.m. (Suggest removal)

One game at a time, however, TN has a tough 4 game stretch with 3 of the 4 being on the road in the SEC (KY,AL,Miss St-along with GA at home). I think we will win 2 or 3 out of 4. Of course,TN has the talent & bench to win all 4. But a team just doesn't go 16-0 or 15-1 unless they are the Lady Vols. I believe we will lose to Memphis, but give them all they can handle. FL and Vandy are tough to beat at thier place. LSU always gives TN all they can handle. Beat KY! GO VOLS!
JDS

Posted by dirtdobber1 on January 21, 2008 at 3:02 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Warriorman86- not sure where you were going with your post...maybe to the toilet!

Knoxvegas Im not sure how wanting fans that sit near the floor to stand up and make more noise is a "Bandwagon Fan"...

We need more fans like Knoxvegas not TommyJack (aka Vandy_Jack)

Posted by wskeen on January 21, 2008 at 3:23 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Why did they waste all that money on seats. I just don't understand how they can waste our money like that.

Posted by warriorman86 on January 21, 2008 at 3:28 p.m. (Suggest removal)

dirtdobber1, i was not disagreeing that fans that sit near he floor to stand up and make more noise. I was talking about his comment earlier that read "TENNESSEE NOW A #1 SEAT". I just thought it was sort of sad that he didn't know the difference between seat and seed.

Posted by Basketball_Jones on January 21, 2008 at 3:35 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I am the one who said Memphis High will bow out in the Elite 8. WSkeen they buy those seats cause they have the money to waste and they can tell their neighbors they have season tix.

Bleed I don't think UT will lose any of those games, I reaqlly only see a couple of games on the schedule where we may lose. Memphis and Vandy at Vandy, besides that we should cruise.

Morrisons hahaha....Get the meatloaf w/extra gravy

Posted by dirtdobber1 on January 21, 2008 at 3:39 p.m. (Suggest removal)

warriorman86- sorry- my mistake. Bottom line here guys is that the basketball team is doing great! We need to keep yelling- maybe if the people standing can give a little and sit and the people sitting can stand a little- we can all be happy!

lets remember that Patterson for Ky visited UT as a recruit, coach Pearl said he didnt even give us a serios look. lets remember that when KY comes to TB in a few weeks and get loud!

Posted by dirtdobber1 on January 21, 2008 at 3:50 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Personally didnt care for Thad Motta shoving Jajuan Smith late in the game. Anybody heard anything about that incident.

Posted by knoxvegas75 on January 21, 2008 at 4:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)

HEY warriorman86

Sorry for the typo I was TRUELY Excited. Why the harsh comments to me...I have been a true tennessee basketball fan for years. Now I am not an east TN native so my ten year is only about that long. I have always loved college basketball and football. When I moved to TN (Memphis) in 1995 I became a huge TN Sports Fan...I Started my UT Education in 1999 and have been a part of the ups and downs (2001,2007) ect... I am not a catch the bus fan and will always be a TENNESSEE VOL!!!! GO VOLS !!!!!

Posted by ballewville6 on January 21, 2008 at 11:09 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Posted by GreeneVol on January 21, 2008 at 2:07 p.m. (Suggest removal)

ESPN/USA Today Poll
1. Memphis (21) 17-0 765
2. Kansas (10) 18-0 754
3. Duke 15-1 682 have not played the tough scedual and should be ranked behind vols
4. North Carolina 18-1 666tennessee has played a tougher scedual and there loss was saturday to a team with 11-7 record on home floor,
5. Tennessee 16-1 653tennessee should be 3 in coaches poll because there loss was nov 24 there 6 game you know with a new tyler smith and jp still waiting to play that affected the outcome plus ut hasnt lost in almost 2 months if ut had been number 1 and loss to vandy and them ranked we would have dropped atleast 8 or 10 spots
6. Washington State 16-1 620even state should have passed unc its the biasedthat wants unc and duke as no 1 seeds in ncaa tourny
7. UCLA 16-2 581
8. Indiana 16-1 565
9. Georgetown 14-2 543
10. Michigan State 16-2 517
11. Wisconsin 15-2 443
12. Texas 14-3 381
13. Vanderbilt 17-2 336
14. Butler 17-2 316
15. Mississippi 15-2 284
16. Texas A&M 15-3 280
17. Pittsburgh 15-3 267
18. Villanova 13-3 257
19. Dayton 14-2 203
20. Marquette 13-4 158
21. Stanford 15-3 151
22. Xavier 15-4 112
23. Drake 16-1 92
24. Saint Mary's 15-2 89
25. Clemson 14-4 84
but we beat kentucky dont get big head then win the games we should and beat memphis for 3 time in a row we should move up a little

Posted by justbware on January 21, 2008 at 11:57 p.m. (Suggest removal)

VolCR: Who has UT played outside of the conference the past two years besides OSU (oh, and Gonzaga)?? The SEC isn't so great this year! C-USA is 5-3 vs. the SEC I might add, so if you want to talk about how bad we are, look at your own conference first. Yeah, Cal talks a lot of hot air, but what coach doesn't? He's done a tremendous amount for the UofM since he's been there and yes, we ARE now a national program! No, he hasn't won a NC, but he is one of the elite coaches in the game. It's funny, but UT won't admit that there is a school in this state with more tradition in basketball than them (and no, head-to-head doesn't constitute more tradition). Congrats on your recent success, but until you prove more than a sweet sixteen, you guys need to wait your turn! We sure have! Go Tigers!

Posted by justbware on January 22, 2008 at 12:11 a.m. (Suggest removal)

dirtdobber: Did you really compare our win over Middle with yours?? So did you guys get two W's for winning by 70? With that logic, you guys would get smoked by a lot of teams. I think Davidson just beat UTC by 30! You guys just beat them by 6???? Come on!
You guys are good!! You don't have to try and talk other teams down just because of that. It all comes around, you know!

Posted by maples on January 22, 2008 at 1:19 p.m. (Suggest removal)

correct me if I am wrong, but I am sure that the Vols were ranked #1 briefly during the Ernie and Bernie days. I remember the guys all bought gold chains with the #1 on it. It did not last long because they promptly lost and did terrible in the NCAA tournament (first round loss to an inferior team).