Hi ! Artie Fischal here giving you my personal picks for the FIRST FOUR games being played tonight and tomorrow night. 1. Virginia Cavaliers (No. 10 seed, Midwest Region) Record: 23-10 (13-7 ACC) The Cavaliers had a strong showing in the ACC, and their stifling defense could pose problems for opponents. Look for them to grind out a win. 2. Colorado State Rams (No. 10 seed, Midwest Region) Record: 24-10 (10-8 Mountain West) The Rams have balanced scoring and solid rebounding. Their matchup against Virginia promises to be intense. 3. Boise State Broncos (No. 10 seed, South Region) Record: 22-10 (13-5 Mountain West) Boise State boasts a high-scoring offense led by sharpshooters. Can they outgun their opponents? 4. Colorado Buffaloes (No. 10 seed, South Region) Record: 24-10 (13-7 Pac-12) Colorado’s disciplined play and strong inside presence make them a formidable team. 5. Montana State Bobcats (No. 16 seed, Midwest Region) Record: 17-17 (9-9 Big Sky) The Bobcats are the underdogs, but March Madness is all about surprises. Can they pull off an upset? 6. Grambling Tigers (No. 16 seed, Midwest Region) Record: 20-14 (14-4 SWAC) Grambling is making its first NCAA Tournament appearance. Watch out for their hunger and determination. 7. Howard Bison (No. 16 seed, West Region) Record: 18-16 (9-5 MEAC) Howard’s Cinderella story begins here. Can they shock the world? 8. Wagner Seahawks (No. 16 seed, West Region) Record: 16-15 (7-9 NEC) Wagner aims to prove that they belong on the big stage. Can they make history? Projected Winners Tuesday, March 19 Wagner vs. Howard (West Region) Projected Winner: Wagner The Seahawks’ experience gives them the edge. Colorado State vs. Virginia (Midwest Region) Projected Winner: Virginia The Cavaliers’ defense prevails in a close battle. Wednesday, March 20 Montana State vs. Grambling (Midwest Region) Projected Winner: Grambling The Tigers’ hunger leads them to victory. Boise State vs. Colorado (South Region) Projected Winner: Boise State The Broncos’ scoring prowess seals the deal. Artie Fischal [adrotate group=”1″] Views: 132
Category: Mens Basketball
BEWARE of FAKE TICKETS: SAFEGUARD YOUR MARCH MADNESS EXPERIENCE
[adrotate group=”1″] MARCH MADNESS—the exhilarating crescendo of college basketball—beckons fans with the promise of electrifying games, roaring crowds, and unforgettable moments. As the tournament approaches, the scramble for tickets intensifies. But amidst the frenzy, there’s a lurking danger: fake tickets peddled by unscrupulous vendors and scalpers. The Scam Landscape Online Pitfalls: The internet, a double-edged sword, offers countless avenues to find tickets. Unfortunately, some of these listings are rip-offs. In 2019 alone, the Better Business Bureau received nearly 400 reports related to ticket scams for sporting events, concerts, and theater shows. Beware of enticing online deals that seem too good to be true. Individual Sellers: Most scams occur when buying from individuals. Picture this: you meet someone on the street or transact online, believing you’ve secured a legitimate ticket. But here’s the twist—multiple buyers may hold the same ticket. The first person to scan it at the venue gains entry, leaving others stranded. Shield Yourself: Practical Tips Source Wisely: Venue First: Whenever possible, purchase directly from the venue. Official ticket sales agents now offer secondary sales options. Know Your Source: Understand the difference between: Professional Ticket Brokers: Legitimate, accredited resellers. Ticket Scalpers: Unregulated and unlicensed sellers. Scammers: The ones peddling counterfeit tickets. Check Credentials: Look up sellers on BBB.org to learn from others’ experiences. Verify if they’re members of the National Association of Ticket Brokers (NATB), which offers a 200% purchase guarantee. Online Caution: Trustworthy Vendors: Buy only from trusted online vendors. Look for the lock symbol in the web address, indicating a secure purchasing system. Avoid Email Links: Scammers often create web addresses resembling well-known companies. Don’t click through from emails or online ads. Know the Refund Policy: Transparency Matters: Ensure the reseller provides clear details about the transaction terms. Seat Location Disclosure: Sellers should reveal the exact seat location represented by the tickets. Shipping or Pickup: If tickets aren’t immediately accessible, know when they’ll ship or be available for pickup. Safe Payment Methods: Credit Cards: Always use credit cards for ticket purchases. They offer recourse if things go awry. Avoid Risky Methods: Debit cards, wire transfers, or cash transactions leave you vulnerable. Spotting Red Flags Too Good to Be True: If the price seems unrealistically low, pause and reconsider. Ripped Tags and Irregular Markings: Inspect merchandise for signs of tampering. Authorized Retail Locations: Opt for authorized retail stores and licensed online vendors. Final Words March Madness is a celebration of basketball prowess, camaraderie, and sheer adrenaline. Don’t let fake tickets tarnish your experience. Arm yourself with knowledge, stay vigilant, and cheer for your team without falling prey to scams. Remember, the thrill of victory should never be shadowed by the agony of a counterfeit ticket. [adrotate group=”1″] Views: 132
BASKETBALL TERMS EXPLAINED (IN CARTOON FORM)
[adrotate group=”1″] For those of you who are unfamiliar, or are. here are a few illustrations of the some of the the rules you should find being followed during this year’s NCAA MARCH MADNESS.. Personal Foul: When a player of the opposing team makes contact with a player of the other team. Remember BASKETBALL is a non-contact sport. (Well it used to be). STEALING THE BALL: Taking the ball away from the offensive team during normal play. THREE SECOND LANE VIOLATION: Called when an offensive is in the LANE for more than 3 seconds. (The LANE is the portion of the floor from the free throw line bounded on each side by line where the rebounders stand during a free throw. It is usually a different color than the rest of the floor; but doesn’t have to be.) You rarely see this called regardless of how long the player stays there. BANK SHOT: A shot that BANKS off the glass and into the basket. SLAM DUNK: When an offensive player (technically goal tends, leaving the defensive player without a way to defend, as he is not permitted to enter this area. IN REAL BASKETBALL THE OFFENSIVE PLAYER IS NOT ALLOWED IN THIS AREA EITHER. An imaginary cylinder extending above the rim area). TRAVELING: Occurs when a player takes more than 2 steps without a dribble. This is another rare call. (I guess the refs can’t count that far very often. This should be called almost every time). But in todays game “PALMING” which is when the player puts his hand under the ball and turns it over while supposedly dribbling the ball AND CARRIES IT BETWEEN DRIBBLES, is technically. traveling or could be considered a Double Dribble, as he stops his dribble then starts dribbling again. BUT NOT IN TODAYS GAME. DRIBBLING: Bringing the ball down the floor by bouncing it off the floor, but not above the head. (And not turning the ball over in your hand, as you see the players do now days). TIME OUT: This is the time the coach explains what he wants the team to do next, hoping to take advantage of the opposition by surprise. TECHNICAL FOUL: Usually an infraction that is non contact and can be called on coaches, players, even spectators. JUMP BALL: This occurs when two opposing player have control of the ball. 10 SECOND LINE VIOLATION: When a team fails to advance the ball across the mid-court line in 10 seconds. [adrotate group=”1″] Views: 142
CAITLIN CLARK vs. PETE MARAVICH: A SCORING DUEL
[adrotate group=”1″] The Records: 🏀 Pete Maravich: College Years : Maravich played for Louisiana State University (LSU) from 1967 to 1970. Scoring Average: He averaged an astounding 44.2 points per game during his college career. Total Points: Maravich set an NCAA record with a total of 3,667 points. (In 3 years), Total Points: Notably, Maravich achieved this feat without the benefit of the 3-point shot, which was introduced later, and he accomplished it in just three season. (Freshmen not allowed to play) Playing Style: Maravich was a shooting, dribbling, and passing wizard who dominated the college game. Caitlin Clark: College Years: Clark currently plays for the University of Iowa and has been making waves since 2020. Scoring Prowess: She is a scoring dynamo, consistently putting up impressive numbers. Current Total Points: As of now, Clark has amassed 3,650 points. Advantages: Unlike Maravich, she has the advantage of the 3-point shot and other modern rules. Playing Style: Clark’s playing style is reminiscent of Maravich’s—fearless, aggressive, and with a shoot-first mentality. Should There Be an Asterisk? The question of whether Caitlin Clark should have an asterisk next to her name when she breaks Maravich’s scoring record is subjective. Here are some considerations: Era and Rules: Maravich played in a different era, without the shot clock or the 3-point line. These factors significantly impacted gameplay. Clark’s achievements occur in a more modern context, with rule changes that favor high-scoring games. Duration: Maravich achieved his record in three seasons, while Clark is on track to surpass it in four seasons. Some argue that the longer duration gives Clark more opportunities to accumulate points. Individual Accomplishments: Both players stand on their own merits. Clark’s achievements are remarkable, regardless of Maravich’s record. Comparing them directly may not be entirely fair, as they played different games under different circumstances. Conclusion: Caitlin Clark’s scoring prowess is undeniable, and she deserves recognition for her achievements. Whether an asterisk should accompany her record-breaking moment is a matter of perspective. Ultimately, both players have left an indelible mark on college basketball, each in their unique way. As fans, let’s celebrate their greatness without diminishing either player’s legacy. 🏀 [adrotate group=”1″] Views: 171
MARCH MADNESS FROM THE BEGINNINGS (a poem)
[adrotate group=”1″] 🏀This poem captures the essence of March Madness, from its inception in 1939 to the memorable moments that have defined the tournament. It celebrates the spirit of competition, the joy of victory, and the heartbreak of defeat that are all part of this beloved annual event. Enjoy the Madness! 🏀 Wayne Lawrence In the heartland of Hoosiers, where basketball reigns, A tradition was born, amidst cheers and refrains. March Madness, they call it, a tournament grand, Where dreams are made real, in this basketball land. It started in ’39, with just eight teams in play, Ohio State lost to Oregon, on that historic day. Year by year, the field grew, the excitement did too, Every spring, the nation watched, as the Madness ensued. From Texas Western’s glory, in the year of ’66, To Bird versus Magic, in ’79, a rivalry affixed. The underdogs and upsets, the Cinderella tales, Laettner’s shot, NC State’s win, history regales. The brackets, the buzzer-beaters, the thrill of the fight, The shining moments under the Final Four’s bright light. Coaches, players, fans alike, all part of the dance, In the Madness of March, everyone has a chance. Through decades of dunks, of victories and tears, The Madness of March is the highlight of the year. So here’s to the teams, to the games we adore, In the Madness of March, it’s the love of the score. Artie Fischal [adrotate group=”1″] Views: 160
2024 MARCH MADNESS PICK SHEETS , UPDATES AND OCCASIONAL OPINION
Yes I will have “MY PICKS” so you can compare your picks to mine. (And Laugh or Cry)I will have A “MASTER BRACKET”, “WHAT IF YOU CHOSE THE HIGH PICKS” for each game. Yes I will have MY PICKS. An “UPSET” will be RED on “ALL HIGH PICKS” Bracket. GREEN indicate HIGH SEED Win. What is a seed? Merely a starting place. Although unlikely, IT is possible for two 16 seeds to meet in the final game. Would lets say were, Michigan St., to be seeded as a number 16. They would still have to win all games to be CHAMPION ! SEEDING attempts to give a more favored team an easier path to the CHAMPIONSHIP. Seeding should lead to the best 2 teams playing in the final game. However there is always that upset minded team; or the chance that the favored team has a bad game, a stand out player is sick or injured. For more information feel free to go to… https://ftm.coursemateai.com/home 🏀 I tried to pin Artie Fischal into filling out a bracket. The Closest I got was his Final Four. One pick might throw you for a loop. All Number 1 seeds EXCEPT one. That one odd pick is TENNESEE. What do you think about this. Sorry for the mixup on the bracketts. I had them right to start with. BUT when they the NCAA Selection announced the position of the bracketts they had them in a different order, (which is how I posted them). I asked the friends and family if they heard the difference. They all agreed. So I changed my brackett setup. I should have checked how CBS or other sources had them. My fault. (i guess). MASTER [pdf-embedder url=”https://fromthemiddle.blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/2024-MARCH-MADNESS-MASTER-BRACKETT.pdf” title=”2024 MARCH MADNESS MASTER BRACKETT”] ALL HIGH PICKS [[pdf-embedder url=”https://fromthemiddle.blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/2024-MARCH-MADNESS-HIGH-PICKS-BRACKETT.pdf” title=”2024 MARCH MADNESS HIGH PICKS BRACKETT”] UPSETS [pdf-embedder url=”https://fromthemiddle.blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/2024-MARCH-MADNESS-UPSETS-BRACKETT.pdf” title=”2024 MARCH MADNESS UPSETS BRACKETT”] Please do not loot at my picks! It might make youlaugh or cry? MY PICKS [pdf-embedder url=”https://fromthemiddle.blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/2024-MARCH-MADNESS-MY-PICKS-BRACKETT.pdf” title=”2024 MARCH MADNESS MY PICKS BRACKETT”] [adrotate group=”1″] Views: 205
RE: STUDENT ATHLETES GETTING PAID ENDORSEMENTS (NIL)
[adrotate group=”1″] 🏀 🏈 Here is a comparison between the non-scholarship major college student and the high profile student full ride scholarship in one of the top five athletic conferences: Aspect Non-scholarship student Full-ride scholarship student Tuition Has to pay for tuition, which can range from $10,000 to $50,000 per year depending on the school. Does not have to pay for tuition, which is covered by the scholarship. Housing Has to pay for housing, which can cost around $10,000 per year on average. Does not have to pay for housing, which is covered by the scholarship. Books and other expenses Has to pay for books and other expenses, which can add up to $1,000 to $2,000 per year. Does not have to pay for books and other expenses, which are covered by the scholarship. Financial aid May qualify for financial aid, such as grants, loans, or work-study, depending on their financial need and academic performance. May not qualify for financial aid, as the scholarship already covers their full cost of attendance. Academic requirements Has to meet the academic requirements of their major, which may vary depending on the field of study and the school. Has to meet the academic requirements of their scholarship, which may be higher than the minimum standards of the school. Athletic requirements Does not have to participate in any varsity sports, unless they choose to do so as a walk-on Has to participate in a varsity sport, and maintain a high level of performance and commitment Career prospects Has to compete with other graduates for jobs or further education, and may have to deal with student debt Has an advantage in terms of networking, exposure, and recognition, and does not have to worry about student debt By comparison of expenses the Athlete is getting between $22,000-$72,000 a year for playing a sport. (Not all athletes, mostly just Basketball and Football players). Over a 4 year career that totals to $88,000-$288,000. AND no STUDENT DEBT. Not a bad deal. However now they make Thousands on NIL. Some could finish their 4 years as MILLIONAIRES. CONCLUSION: If I had the chance to play a sport I love, get a college degree, and have NO expenses, other than the small things every body has, like dating expenses, an occasional night out. etc. etc. AND NO STUDENT DEBT. I would be happy as a lark. It is reported that Iowas Caitlin Clark has an NIL value of $818,000. Not picking on Ms Clark; she is the one that came up first. What I read is this is more than 120+ NBA players get. 🏈 🏀 Views: 148
