Tennessee Men's Basketball
ST. LOUIS — Tennessee outshot Michigan State, equaled the Spartans — statistically, the nation's best rebounders — on the boards and had one fewer turnover.
"The numbers look pretty good," Volunteers coach Bruce Pearl conceded, glancing at the box score.
So why isn't Tennessee, and not Michigan State, matched up against Butler Saturday in the national semifinals? Defensive lapses at the end of both halves Sunday at the Edward Jones Dome doomed the Vols.
"We accept this loss," Tennessee forward Wayne Chism said after Michigan State prevailed 70-69. "It hurts, but we accept it."
Said Pearl: "This one won't go away . . . forever."
Yet all the orange-tinged angst could've been averted had the Vols made just one more stop, either in the last second of the first half or the final two seconds of the second. Here's how those situations transpired:
—Tennessee led 41-37 as the last seconds ticked off before intermission. After a couple of missed shots, Michigan State retained possession with 1 second left when the ball went out of bounds under its basket.
Forward Draymond Green cut through the lane, took a pass from guard Durrell Summers and laid in a shot at the buzzer, halving the Vols' halftime edge.
"We didn't stay between our man and the basket," Pearl said. "That was a great momentum-builder for Michigan State."
—After surviving a 14-1 Spartans run and charging back from an eight-point deficit in the second half, Tennessee forged a 69-69 tie when guard Scotty Hopson made the first of two free throws with 11 seconds left. Hopson missed the second, setting up the final, decisive, sequence.
Spartans Guard Korie Lucious corralled the rebound, hustled into the frontcourt then dished to Green near the top of the circle. Green wheeled to his right and spied forward Raymar Morgan under the basket, waving his arms frantically.
"If he hadn't been waving, I probably would've shot it," Green said.
Instead he whipped a pass to Morgan, who was fouled by guard J.P. Prince with 1.8 seconds remaining. Prince questioned the call, saying he thought his elbow hit the ball as Morgan went up.
"I just think at the end of the game you let the players win the game," Prince said.
Pearl insisted that the blame lay with the Vols.
"We didn't get back defensively," he said. "They got the ball way too close to the basket, got way too good a look."
Morgan made the first free throw, then purposely clanked the next. The Vols called a timeout with 1.6 seconds left, but Prince's half-court heave at the buzzer fell short.
"We fought hard and we played to the best of our ability," guard Bobby Maze said. "Apparently we weren't supposed to win today."
Despite the wrenching defeat, Pearl declared that Tennessee (28-9) took a "major step" by reaching its first Elite Eight and posting the second-highest win total in school history.
That didn't seem likely after a New Year's Day incident — guns and marijuana were found in a car in which four Vols were riding after it was pulled over for speeding — led to the dismissal of Tyler Smith, an All-Southeastern Conference performer, and the suspensions of three other players.
But Tennessee rallied, going 11-5 in Southeastern Conference play, then knocking off San Diego State, Ohio and Ohio State in the NCAA Tournament.
"It's hard to reflect right now; we came to this regional to win it and get to the Final Four," Pearl said. "But I'm proud of my seniors and proud of our basketball program. We added to the history and tradition."
___
(c) 2010, St. Louis Post-Dispatch.
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Comments » 62
Gumby#1381110 writes:
Why did we lose? Free throws and missed easy shots!
JWilly writes:
I believe UT was picked by the ESPN talking heads to lose every tournament game they played (with the possible exception of Ohio). Even after making the elite 8, there still seems to be little respect for the Vols. OSU fans and media are still whining and you would think MSU had a cakewalk in their game. I don't get it???
AtLeastMyTeamHasPerfectSeasons writes:
That's ok. They overachieved.
There will be a "Trae Golden" opportunity soon.
AtLeastMyTeamHasPerfectSeasons writes:
I know richrollinz, getting Golden, Harris AND Selby would be almost having a class like KY's freshmen this year. THen imagine as these players develop that Renaldo, Tatum and Steven P actually stepping it up a few notches next season.
The future looks bright! Come on up here Selby!
VolunteerLifer writes:
At least one thing good will come from this loss: We won't have to spend another entire week and weekend reading and hearing endlessly about January 1st. Once these sports journalist bozos get a template, they are like a bunch of magpies and parrots - just repeating everything each other says ad nauseum.
huntined#565710 writes:
Tough week-end for the sec as only KY women remain in it.. Wish them well..
Our year has been GREAT as VOL fans..WOMEN much improved over a year ago and our Men went to the elite 8 FOR THE FIRST TIME EVER. So in all it was a great year for us.
SummittsCourt writes:
Leave it to KNS to kick a vol when he's down. thanks for the reminder... why post this garbage?
DarthWilson writes:
Tennessee played in the elite eight. Six words I had begun to believe I would never hear at Tennessee. Thank you to the seniors and players on this team. Thank you for a great season and the best NCAA tournamount run in the history of men's basketball at Tennessee. Wayne Chism, J.P., and Bobby you will never be forgotten.
Now to focus on football. Let the spring game begin!!!
GBO!!!
WestTennVol writes:
I was at the game right behind the Tennessee bench and saw our guys play their hearts out. I also saw CBP go head to head with arguably the best game-time coach in the country and almost pull it off. Great, Great game, X/O's were there and the effort was phenomenal, well done UT and well done MSU. Hands down THE game of the tourney.
RoyaltyVol#280778 writes:
Great season men!
memphis_vol_fan writes:
It was an outstanding season by the team. 28 wins and an Elite 8 appearance is a major step for the program. But the harsh reality is that UT will NEVER have a draw like this again. Beat two 5 seeds and there playing for a nat'l chamionship. Pearl knew it and the players knew it. They were just one basket short. This team had its flaws but persevered and showed more heart than any other Pearl team.
1vavolfan writes:
I love Skylar but he is not athletic enough to play against Ohio State or MSU.There is not one player on either team he could guard. Offensively he hasn't been doing much either.I agree Steven gets too much time but he is a bulldog defensively. I would prefer Woolridge at that spot because he is 3 inches taller and more athletic.
memphis_vol_fan writes:
Pearl's coaching got UT to within one bucket of the Final Four. I agree with you, it is painful to watch Steven Pearl on the offensive end of the floor. But this is the hand CBP was dealt. We lost E-man back in September and booted Tyler off the team. Thats two players that can play the 4 spot really well. It would be ideal sub-in Woolridge and Hall; but SP is a MUCH better defender than those two. Why are we complaining? We made the Elite Eight for the first time ever!
ProwlinAndGrowlinSmokeyDog writes:
Hey Rich, I was told by another poster(can't remember who) that he was probably going to Kansas, plus a comment in that link that you provided said that Sherron Collins is steering him in the Jayhawks' direction...But on the other hand, he does have UT on his list(again). What do you think??
UkJarhead writes:
Definate heartbreak for both our teams. But great seasons. Lots of great wins. As long as Pearl is at UT, the rivalry will be as strong as ever. Great in game coach and great at adjustments. Apparently, a great recruiter as well. Hopefully our women can get to the Final Four and beat UConn... Not sure our mens team could beat them, but it has to end sometime.
ThugTillIDie writes:
http://www.facebook.com/#!/group.php?gid=106139739418511&ref=mf
ThugTillIDie writes:
A bulldog who got posted up and was dominated the entire time he was in the game.
orangecountyvols writes:
The word that fits a lot is frustration. The more we won games, that much more was expected. Yes, looking way back when we were losing to Southern Cal etc, not many people thought we'd be anywhere near a final 4.
One point to tie, and 2 to win it is saying something for the Vols.
Think about it....we talk about the free throws. Look at what we are losing in the 3 seniors. They all really came on the last part of the season and actually J P was as dependable as anyone. He used to struggle but was awesome down the stretch.
Youth next season? Look at what freshmen did for Kentucky. The same can happen at Tennessee with this class coming in. The things that will get us there again is the quick, dependable point guard/guards. Goins had flashes and who knows.........maybe Bone will step up. This is not even looking at the incoming freshmen, so that can make us even better.
Next, after a great season ending performance, Williams figures to be more focused, and then add in Cam, Harris, maybe even Hall. Scotty will beef up, get meaner.........in fact it is imperative that he gets more physical and can become all he can be.
Woolridge? Haven't seen enough of him to know. But a big lift would be the presence inside of big, quick bodies.
Something like Patterson, Orton, and Cousins..........even if they did play for U K.
We may be fooled about how the team does, it may be as good or even better.
Wonder what the schedule looks like.
mm29680#645909 writes:
I saw Steven Pearl get the WORST chewing out by his own father after Steven had just been taken out. It was embarassing to watch, because I thought Steven was about to cry Maybe he isn't the best player on the team, but he is tenacious on defense and is a better team player than Hopson.
VABeachVOLFan writes:
A little off subject but can anyone tell me why Tyler was kicked off and not just suspended like the others?
TommyJack writes:
I guess because he was totin a couple of widow-makers.
Lostvolinhighweeds writes:
Mainly , I think, because he owned the guns.
Altered serial # on a firearm is a pretty serious offense.
Although that is a direct violation of the second amendment, the law is the law.
HallowedHill writes:
When you lose by one point, it's easy to second guess. The real solution is to become better in all aspects of the game. The future looks bright for UT bball.
GO VOLS!
jhayes0926#638474 writes:
Wonder how many more times we will hear " Tyler Smith was dismissed from the team after 2 guns, marijuana,......" I am about to puke if I read about this again.
jawbreaker writes:
Jar, no offense, but I didn't know Ky's women were still alive (although it doesn't surprise me). So, for the rest of the tournament, I'm a 'Cats fan. For all of you folks harping on Pearl, who played and who didn't, etc., just take a deep breath, exhale, and let it go.
VOLFORLIFE writes:
Me too, marc! Well said!
GO VOLS!!!
JUGHEAD
VABeachVOLFan writes:
I never read until now that the guns were his. Sorry to upset your tummy.
VOLFORLIFE writes:
Yeah, wouldn't it have been great if we both could've been there? And I agree with you about the rivalry. I think there's a lot of respect between Pearl and Calipari, but just enough disdain to really make their match ups interesting, not to mention the recruiting wars.
Vol fans are hurting over both our ladies and men getting booted from the tournaments, but congrats to the Lady Wildcats. Here's one Vol fan who will be pulling for them to take it all!
GO VOLS!!!
(AND LADY WILDCATS)
JUGHEAD
dyerbey#281598 writes:
I'm proud of our team. They ignored the talking heads who kept trying to convince us this team wouldn't make it through the first round. I'm going miss Wayne and J.P. Thanks guys for the excitement, be proud of what you accomplished.
dyerbey#281598 writes:
I'm hoping to see Pearl land Selby. I suppose it doesn't hurt to dream, but he's waiting to see what Wall and Bledsoe do, if they turn pro Selby is headed to Lexington, unfortunately.
bmaples writes:
A GREAT season, considering everything that went into it. Up-down-up-down, concluding with a great UP on Friday when we made the Elite Eight (agree with the above poster: words I never thought I'd write) and a great DOWN on Sunday when we came one or two plays short of a Final Four. (Even more words I never thought I'd write.)
Bruce Pearl has proven that he is more than P.T. Barnum in an orange jacket -- he is a motivator, a leader, and a solid coach. He got this team ready, used the parts he had, and almost beat THE MOST SUCCESSFUL NCAA COACH of the past decade.
Think about this -- Tennessee came closer to the Final Four than Kentucky. Just think about this year, and those two teams, and then think about that statement. That's all that needs to be said about this UT team, the staff, and CBP.
I'm excited about next year already. CPS is going to have EVERYONE back, plus some solid additional players. And even though we are going to miss all the seniors, the returnees and newbies on the men's side look pretty good too.
Just as Christ Lofton and Dane Bradshaw said they were building a foundation, this team added to that foundation. Bruce Pearl is building a PROGRAM, and that's much harder than just building a single team. I'm glad he is our coach, and I'm glad to have had this year with this team. And I'm glad to be a Vol!
Bruce in Louisville
Ringside writes:
Congrats Vols. Nuff said.
SFOrange writes:
Great run Vols. As the team went deeper into the tourney it looked better and better. Congrats..and go to hell Kentucky!
HtownVol writes:
I will only ask...Why does SP get love as a defender? Every play I saw him in yesterday, the MSU bigs knew they could beat up SP down low and they did. I meanthey literally threw him around like a doll.
You all can say he plays the game right, but my question is "why do people think he is a good defender?" Dont tell me I wasnt watching. I made a point to see how SP handled himself in the paint. And yesterday he did nothing.
It is only a question. Answer only this question. And do not think about questioning my love for UT! I am on here good and bad, and say it as I see it.
That being said, I will mention again how excited I am about UTs future.
1. 4 newcomers - on paper MORE talented (by far) than the 3 seniors we lose. Heart will have to develope.
2. I am happy with Goins running the point. He had a great tournament and he should be a major player next year.
3. Tatum will be the sharp shooter. His shot was getting better every day and he is adding some moves to his game.
4. Williams will be a solid center. He seemed to understand to put the ball in the basket when he gets it the last few games. If he can position himself and go strong, he will have a double-double almost every game next year.
5. Kenny Hall...PLEASE add 20+ lbs of muscle! You are the most aggressive dunker on the team, if you add mass to your frame you can post up. Also you must add a jump shot.
6. AND BIGGEST!!!
SCOTTY HOPSON... Please make a goal for yourself. Become the leader of this team. If you find the confidence in yourself you will do amazing things and become a top 10 pick in the draft. You have as much or more talent as ANY player in the country, but all year everyone can see you dont believe in yourself.
Do what it takes to take your game to the next level and UT will take the next step!
GO VOLS! Great things will come soon!
HtownVol writes:
Are you seriouse? UT have "everypone back"???
J.P Prince
Wayne Chism
Bobby Maze
I think they were the 3 most important players on the team.
Dont get me wrong. Read my post above. I am excited also, I just have to ask why you think "everyone" is coming back.
spacificislander writes:
CPS Coach Pat Summit, she will have everyone back.
BamaVol01 writes:
The post said CPS will have everyone back. I believe that refers to Pat Summit on the ladies side.
UkJarhead writes:
Somebody didn't eat their polite pills today... Shew
BamaVol01 writes:
Well said. It took the loss of Tyler Smith for Wayne Chism to become the leader of this team. Now it is Scotty Hopson's turn to take over. With the help of Melvin, and the growth of Brian and Cameron, this team will have a strong foundation for 2010 before the new guys arrive.
It's GREAT to be a Tennessee VOL!!!
wildcatbasketball writes:
Nice class!!!
HtownVol writes:
OK, sorry didnt read all the way. Bad assumption. (its a mens article). SORRY!
eswalsh1#571397 writes:
I'm still puzzled by the final in-bounds play to Prince for that hopeless heave. Why not have Williams in-bound the ball and have 3-point shooters Chism, Hopson, Goins, and Tatum positioned around half-court? Have Williams fire the ball way downcourt and the four shooters take off sprinting. One of them might catch it within shooting distance. The clock doesn't start til somebody touches it and doesn't expire til the ball is dead, and 1.6 seconds is enough to catch and shoot. Hate to second-guess the coach, but I can't imagine Prince ever making that shot.
usnavyvolfaninva_still_getting_paid writes:
Oh, don't worry, even though our guys are out now, they'll find a way to work it in anyway.
usnavyvolfaninva_still_getting_paid writes:
hatehatehatehatehatehatehate......
HtownVol writes:
Actually it is still mentioned in every (basketball) story on this site since we lost, even this one.
With my overview of the team next year, I would like to add that Kenny Hall needing to add 20+ lbs of muscle is very important, b/c Williams would be the only true center we have. So Kennys weight room time may be a huge factor to next year.
Williams, please get in a little better shape. I am proud of you, but 2 air ball free throws in 4 attempts??? That is not cool!
Let me know what you think about my assesment for the team next year.
GO VOLS!
eswalsh1#571397 writes:
Why the debate about Steven Pearl? He goes in to spell someone else for a few minutes, and enable CBP to keep throwing fresh bodies in. "Our ten vs. their six," he's always saying. SP almost never takes a shot, although he does try for rebounds.
straightshooter writes:
Lots of moments that could have changed the outcome. But funny, I though with that inbounds play at the end of the first half with less than 2 seconds to go, "if they score that quickly at this point, that easily (Michigan State) takes back momenteum and will win the game, if UT defends, they win. Chism let the guy slide by and take the easiest shot on the floor, a layup as time ran out. 20 minutes later it would be the difference in the game. But then there were likely a dozen other "what ifs". Another opinion I think most will agree. If there was a year to slide in and take a NC not being a great team yourself, this was the year as there are no truely great teams in college basketball for 2009-2010.
illorangevol writes:
I, for one am very proud of this team, the university and the coach. I think this team even with the seniors leaving have a huge opportunity next year to be a great team. CBP has proven brilliance at his coaching, has instilled in these men the character to beleive in themselves and we can all say that we have withnessed a transformation for this entire program.
I see Brian Williams becoming a man on the court. That is the biggest change I have seen in this team and that comes from CBP leadership. Everyone of these players deserve our respect and admiration for the way they poured their heart out during this tournament.
To all of the team - congratulations on a great season and a huge step in growth of a winning tradition.
Thank you all!!!!
osbymartin#581730 writes:
That was me.. lol. UT is back on his list. I hope I am wrong but I see him headed to KU. Read reports his mom says he will pick between KU, UK, Arizona, and UCONN. There are 3 undecided PGs. My best guess is Knight(UK), Selby(KU), and Joseph(UCONN). We will know on Apr. 17th
osbymartin#581730 writes:
Brandon Knight is the one waiting to see what happens in UK. If Wall leaves Knight will go to UK. He has already backed off of UF. The only way he don't go to UK is if by some miracle Wall comes back
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