Charlotte Hornets History: The next stage of the team’s history will be judged by whether it can turn individual talent into a consistent winner, advance beyond the early playoff rounds, and ultimately compete for an NBA championship. Charlotte has the arena, the history, and the support to remain an important NBA market. The next challenge is establishing the winning tradition that has eluded the franchise. NBA report on the 2023 ownership change NBA franchise records and Hall of Fame listings Editorial note: The Hall of Fame section distinguishes players who appeared for Charlotte from those whose Hall of Fame induction was primarily based on their Hornets achievements. Awards and Legacy The Charlotte Hornets are one of the NBA’s most recognizable franchises, known for their distinctive teal and purple colors, passionate Carolina fan base, and exciting players. From the original team’s arrival in 1988 to the return of the Hornets name in 2014, the franchise has experienced remarkable popularity, ownership changes, memorable playoff runs, and the continuing pursuit of its first NBA championship. Although the Hornets have yet to reach the NBA Finals, their history includes outstanding players, Hall of Fame talent, memorable coaches, and one of the most recognizable identities in professional basketball. This article covers the franchise’s ownership, home arenas, Basketball Hall of Fame players who wore the Hornets uniform, NBA awards won as Hornets, and the people who have shaped its legacy. The Beginning of the Charlotte Hornets Charlotte joined the NBA as an expansion franchise for the 1988–89 season. Businessman George Shinn led the effort to bring professional basketball to Charlotte, North Carolina. The original Hornets quickly developed a loyal following. Their teal-and-purple identity, colorful uniforms, and exciting basketball helped make the team a major part of Charlotte’s sporting culture. The team’s early years included the development of young stars such as Larry Johnson, Alonzo Mourning, and Muggsy Bogues. During the 1990s, the Hornets became a competitive playoff team and one of the NBA’s most popular young franchises. However, disputes over a new arena and the team’s relationship with the city eventually led to relocation. In 2002, the franchise moved to New Orleans, taking its basketball history with it. Charlotte received a replacement expansion franchise, the Charlotte Bobcats, which began play in 2004. The Bobcats became the Charlotte Hornets again in 2014, restoring the name and much of the identity associated with the original team. The NBA’s franchise history therefore requires an important distinction: the original Hornets moved to New Orleans, while the present Charlotte franchise began as the Bobcats. All Charlotte Hornets and Bobcats Principal Owners. The ownership history reflects the franchise’s transition from its original expansion years to the Bobcats era and the present-day Hornets organization. Owner or ownership group Years Significance George Shinn 1988–2002 Founding owner of the original Charlotte Hornets. Robert L. Johnson 2002–2010 Founded the Charlotte Bobcats expansion franchise and became its first principal owner. Michael Jordan 2010–2023 Took majority control of the Bobcats in 2010 and oversaw the return of the Hornets name in 2014. Gabe Plotkin and Rick Schnall 2023–present Led the group that acquired majority control from Jordan in August 2023. Ray Wooldridge was also a significant partner in the original Hornets’ ownership during its later period. The modern ownership group includes additional investors, such as former minority investors and public figures J. Cole and Michael Jordan’s ownership was particularly historic: he became the first former NBA player to become the majority owner of an NBA franchise. His tenure also brought the Hornets name back to Charlotte, although the team did not win a playoff series during his majority-ownership era. In August 2023, the sale of the majority stake to the group led by Plotkin and Schnall was finalized. Jordan retained a minority investment. Plotkin and Schnall became co-chairmen of Hornets Sports & Entertainment, with the team’s governorship arranged to rotate between them. All Arenas Called Home by the Hornets The franchise has played its home games in two principal buildings in Charlotte, although the current arena has operated under several names. Arena name Years used Historical significance Charlotte Coliseum 1988–2002 Home of the original Hornets and their most successful 1990s seasons. Charlotte Coliseum 2004–2005 Temporary home of the newly established Charlotte Bobcats. Charlotte Bobcats Arena 2005–2008 New downtown arena opened for the Bobcats. Time Warner Cable Arena 2008–2016 Renamed during the Bobcats era and the early return of the Hornets identity. Spectrum Center 2016–present Current downtown Charlotte home arena. The original Charlotte Coliseum became famous for its atmosphere and large crowds. The move to the downtown arena brought the franchise into a modern basketball and entertainment facility closer to Charlotte’s city center. The current venue is known as Spectrum Center. It also hosted the 2019 NBA All-Star Game, a major event for the franchise and the city. Basketball Hall of Fame: Who Was Inducted as a Hornet NONE NBA Rookie of the Year Award Won as a Hornet Larry Johnson — 1991–92 Larry Johnson won the NBA Rookie of the Year award in his first season with Charlotte after being selected first overall in the 1991 NBA Draft. He averaged 19.2 points and 11.0 rebounds per game, establishing himself as one of the league’s most promising young forwards. His strength, athleticism, and personality helped make the young Hornets a must-watch team. Johnson’s arrival gave Charlotte a franchise centerpiece and helped build the excitement surrounding the Hornets during the early 1990s. He NBA All-Star multiple times while playing for Charlotte. NBA Most Valuable Player Award Won as a Hornet The Charlotte Hornets have never had a player win the NBA regular-season Most Valuable Player (MVP) award while playing for the franchise. The Hornets have had star players and All-Stars, but no player has won the league’s overall regular-season MVP award as a member of the team. That… Continue reading Charlotte Hornets History: Owners, Home Arenas, Hall of Famers, Awards and Legacy
Tag: North Carolina
ATLANTA BRAVES ARE the OLDEST CONSTANTLY OPERATING PROFESSIONAL BASEBALL FRANCISE in NORTH AMERICA
The Braves history stretches back to 1871, before the National League itself was founded. The franchise has represented three cities—Boston, Milwaukee, and Atlanta—and is the only Major League Baseball team to win the World Series in all three of its home cities. Franchise timeline Years Team name Home city 1871–1882 Boston Red Stockings Boston, Massachusetts 1883–1906 Boston Beaneaters Boston 1907–1910 Boston Doves Boston 1911 Boston Rustlers Boston 1912–1935 Boston Braves Boston 1936–1940 Boston Bees Boston 1941–1952 Boston Braves Boston 1953–1965 Milwaukee Braves Milwaukee, Wisconsin 1966–Present Atlanta Braves Atlanta, Georgia Ballparks and home cities South End Grounds — Boston (1871–1914) Fenway Park — Boston (1914–1915, (temporary) Braves Field — Boston (1915–1952) Milwaukee County Stadium — Milwaukee (1953–1965) Atlanta–Fulton County Stadium — Atlanta (1966–1996) Turner Field — Atlanta (1997–2016) Truist Park — Atlanta (2017–present) Boston years (1871–1952) The club was founded in 1871 by brothers Harry Wright and George Wright. It won multiple league championships during the nineteenth century and became one of baseball’s first dynasties. The famous “Miracle Braves” of 1914 came from last place in July to win the National League pennant before sweeping the heavily favored Philadelphia Athletics in the World Series. The franchise struggled financially during the Great Depression. In 1935, aging superstar Babe Ruth finished his legendary career with Boston, although he played only a short time before retiring. The club temporarily changed its name to the Bees before returning to Braves in 1941. In 1948, pitchers Warren Spahn and Johnny Sain led Boston to another National League pennant. Milwaukee years (1953–1965) The Braves became the first modern MLB franchise to relocate when they moved to Milwaukee in 1953. The city immediately embraced baseball, drawing record attendance. Young stars developed into legends: Hank Aaron Eddie Mathews Warren Spahn The Braves won the 1957 World Series over the New York Yankees and returned to the World Series in 1958 before losing a rematch. Atlanta years (1966–Present) The Braves moved to Atlanta in 1966, becoming the first Major League team in the Deep South. Early Atlanta stars included: Hank Aaron Phil Niekro Dale Murphy In 1974, Hank Aaron hit his 715th career home run, breaking Babe Ruth’s long-standing record. The Braves became baseball’s dominant franchise of the 1990s under manager Bobby Cox. Their Hall of Fame pitching rotation included: Greg Maddux Tom Glavine John Smoltz Atlanta won an unprecedented 14 consecutive division titles (1991–2005, excluding the 1994 strike season) and captured the 1995 World Series over the Cleveland Indians. After rebuilding, another championship core emerged featuring: Freddie Freeman Ronald Acuña Jr. Ozzie Albies Austin Riley Max Fried The Braves won the 2021 World Series against the Houston Astros. Greatest Braves players and birthplace Player Born Hank Aaron Mobile, Alabama Warren Spahn Buffalo, New York Eddie Mathews Texarkana, Texas Phil Niekro Blaine, Ohio Dale Murphy Portland, Oregon Greg Maddux San Angelo, Texas Tom Glavine Concord, Massachusetts John Smoltz Detroit, Michigan Chipper Jones DeLand, Florida Freddie Freeman Fountain Valley, California Future stars the Braves traded away Player Born Became star with Adam Wainwright Brunswick, Georgia St. Louis Cardinals Jason Schmidt Lewiston, Idaho San Francisco Giants Kevin Millwood Gastonia, North Carolina Cleveland Indians and others Adam Duvall Louisville, Kentucky Cincinnati Reds Elvis Andrus Maracay, Venezuela Texas Rangers Neftalí Feliz Azua, Dominican Republic Texas Rangers Alex Wood Charlotte, North Carolina Los Angeles Dodgers Andrelton Simmons Mundo Nobo, Curaçao Los Angeles Angels David Justice Cincinnati, Ohio Later traded before helping other clubs win championships William Contreras Puerto Cabello, Venezuela Milwaukee Brewers Braves World Series championships 1914 – Boston Braves 1957 – Milwaukee Braves 1995 – Atlanta Braves 2021 – Atlanta Braves The Braves remain one of baseball’s most historic organizations, having produced dozens of Hall of Famers and legends while spanning more than 155 years of professional baseball history. They are the only MLB franchise to win World Series championships representing three different cities. Artie Fischal Views: 1
THE UNDEFEATED LEGACY: THE 1976 INDIANA (HURRYING) HOOSIERS BASKETBALL TEAM
A look back 50 years ago. 🏀 In the annals of college basketball history, one team stands tall, undefeated, and etched in golden letters: the 1975–76 Indiana Hoosiers. Coached by the legendary Bob Knight, this remarkable squad achieved the impossible—a perfect 32–0 record—and clinched the NCAA Men’s Division I Tournament title. Their triumph remains unparalleled, and as of the 2025–26 season, they are the last team to be undefeated National Champions. The All-Star Cast Scott May (Forward) Height: 6’7“ Stats: 23.5 points, 7.7 rebounds, 2.1 assists A scoring machine, May led the charge with his versatile play and clutch performances. Kent Benson (Center) Height: 6’11″ Stats: 17.3 points, 8.8 rebounds, 1.6 assists Benson dominated the paint, combining finesse and power. Quinn Buckner (Guard) Height: 6’3″ Stats: 8.9 points, 2.8 rebounds, 4.2 assists Buckner orchestrated the offense and was a defensive stalwart. Bob Wilkerson (Guard/Forward) Height: 6’6″ Stats: 7.8 points, 4.9 rebounds, 5.3 assists Wilkerson’s versatility and unselfish play were crucial. Tom Abernethy (Forward) Height: 6’7″ Stats: 10.0 points, 5.3 rebounds, 2.0 assists Abernethy stepped up when it mattered most. The Coach: Bob Knight Coach Bob Knight, known for his fiery demeanor and tactical brilliance, molded this team into a cohesive force. His relentless pursuit of perfection drove the Hoosiers to greatness. Knight’s legacy extends beyond the court, shaping generations of players and coaches. Life After Glory Scott May May played in the NBA and later became a successful businessman. His son, Sean May, won an NCAA title with North Carolina in 2005. Quinn Buckner Buckner transitioned to broadcasting and served as an executive with the Indiana Pacers. His leadership remains influential. Kent Benson Benson had an NBA career and later worked in real estate. He cherishes the memories of that magical season. Bob Knight Knight continued coaching, achieving more milestones. His legacy, however, is forever tied to the 1976 Hoosiers. The toughest game for the 1975–76 Indiana Hoosiers during their remarkable undefeated season was a conference matchup against Michigan. On February 7, 1976, in Bloomington, the Hoosiers faced a formidable challenge from Johnny Orr’s Michigan team. The Wolverines pushed Indiana to their limits, testing their mettle and resilience. Ultimately, the Hoosiers prevailed, but it was a hard-fought battle that left an indelible mark on their historic journey. In that intense clash, the Hoosiers demonstrated their unwavering determination and teamwork, securing a crucial victory on their path to perfection. The memory of that game still resonates with fans and players alike, underscoring the greatness of the 1976 Indiana Hoosiers. The Enduring Legend The 1976 Indiana Hoosiers exemplify teamwork, resilience, and excellence. Their undefeated run transcends time, reminding us that greatness is born from dedication, sacrifice, and unwavering belief. As the sun sets on their remarkable journey, their legacy shines brighter than ever.🏀 Views: 1
WAY TOO EARLY PROJECTION OF TEAMS IN 2026 MARCH MADNESS
Below is MY perceived 2026 NCAA Men’s March Madness 68-team bracket summary along with why these contenders are projected where they are and who the last four in might be. With clear sections and some bracket context based on multiple bracketology sources and current standings. 🏀 2026 NCAA March Madness – Perceived Bracket & Summary Top Seeds (Projected No. 1s) No. 1 Seeds: Duke, Michigan, Arizona, UConn These are the teams currently leading polls and bracket projections: Duke has taken over the AP No. 1 spot after a signature win over Michigan, Michigan and Arizona remain elite in NET and poll rankings, and UConn is dominating the Big East. 🏆 Projected Bracket — Top Regions (This is a field combining multiple bracketology projections through February) No. 1 Seeds Duke – ACC powerhouse with top metrics and high Quad-1 win totals. AP News Michigan – Elite resume, strong analytics profile across KenPom & NET. Arizona – Undefeated and dominant in Big 12 play. UConn – Big East leader and consistent NET top10 team. �table 2–4 Seeds (Consensus among projections): Purdue – Listed as a 2-seed and inside the top 10 NET as well. Illinois, Houston, Iowa State, Gonzaga – All regularly projected as 2–3 seeds due to strong resumes and Quad-1 victories. Texas Tech, North Carolina, Florida – Frequently slotted in the 4–5 range. 🔥 Bubble & At-Large Favorites These teams are frequently projected in the middle seed range (6–10) and are viewed as strong bubble contenders: Wisconsin – Now considered a lock with a solid Quad-1 profile. Bucky’s 5th Quarter NC State, Villanova, Utah State – Often seen as swing seeds (7–9). Tennessee, Alabama, Iowa, Louisville – Held inside projected field in most bracketology lists. 📉 Perceived Bubble & Tiering Likely In (just inside): NC State, UCLA, Auburn, Missouri, USC, SMU � Traditional Bubble (needs wins to secure): Butler, Creighton, Seton Hall, UCF, San Diego State � 🏟️ Last Four In (Play-In Candidates) According to recent projections such as Sporting News’ field of 68 and other bracketology builds: 📌 Projected Last Four In Texas Ohio State Texas A&M New Mexico These teams typically show up just inside the 68-team range but with resume gaps that could easily drop them on Selection Sunday. ❌ First Four Out (Near-Misses) Teams often crack the bracket: Just outside the field, meaning they’d need late resume boosts to USC Santa Clara Virginia Tech Missouri These programs hover near the cut line due to inconsistent Quad-1 wins or fewer signature victories. 🧠 Why These Projections Make Sense 📊 Standings & Metrics The teams near the top of the NET and AP polls (Duke, Michigan, Arizona, UConn) also have strong strength of schedule and Quad-1 win totals — key components the Selection Committee values. NCAA.com+ 📍 Conference Strength Big Ten, ACC, Big 12, and SEC teams are well-represented due to conference depth and quality wins. The Big Ten alone has numerous projected bids. Bucky’s 5th Quarter 📉 Strong Mid-Majors Gonzaga and Utah State often appear in the field due to excellent records, strong conference performance, and Quad-1/Quad-2 victories. The Slipper Still Fits Views: 2
NCAA MARCH MADNESS 2017
You will see scores here when I am away from the computer Gonzaga 65 NORTH CAROLINA 71 North Carolina came from behind with a 9-2 run. To become your 2017 NCAA MENS BASKETBALL CHAMPIONS !! This is number 6 for the Tarheels. And number 3 under Coach Roy Williams. Congratulations to the LADIES of South Carolina on becoming the 2017 NCAA Womens Basketball CHAMPIONS !!! The table is set. Two number One Seeds will face off tor the 2017 version of the NCCA 2017 Campionship Jump ball set to begin at 9pm (EST), Monday April 3rd, On CBS As I pointed out earlier; this will be GONZAGA’S 19th,consecutive tournament appearance. (It will be their 20th appearance counting their one and done, in 1995). Could this be their year? As I previously pointed out If they could score more than 62 points in that crucial (for them), 4th game. They would have a really good chance of winning their FIRST EVER Men’s NCAA BASKETBAL TITLE. I must admit the Gonzaga Bulldogs, if not considered a Cinderella team ; THEY have to be a SENTIMENTAL favorite. Good luck to both teams. Although I will be rooting for my sentimental favorite and SPIKES Favorite, GONZAGA. (For those of you who didn’t know, SPIKE is the name of Gonzaga’s mascot). North Carolina ended Oregon’s run, edging them out by a single point 77-76. Gonzaga, (a mid major college), withstood a 16-0 charge by South Carolina to eliminate South by 4 points. 77-73 Does it say anything that both finalist scored the same (77), number of points. In their respective Semi-Final games, Wouldn’t it be a great game if after 40 minutes the two teams were tied 77-77. WOW! USA Today appeared a mite bias today. I counted four headlines regarding the North Carolina game and zero regarding Gonzagas game. If they had any I missed them. HOW about those Musketeers! From an eleven seed to Elite Eight berth. Of course I will still root for my TEAM, or any of its fellow conference members, as long as they last. It would be nice to see an eleven seed win it all. Gonzaga is a sentimental favorite. Having made the tournament EVERY year sine 1999. Amassing 25 wins in the prior 17 year span. Their best years were 1999 and 2015 with 3 wins advancing to to the Regional Final. In 1999 they were ousted 67-62 by UCONN. 2015 saw the Zags Return to the regional final only to be defeated 66-62 by Duke. Seems if they reach the Regional Final again and can score more than 62 points, They just might win their region. I really hate to add this item at this time. But I Think it is relevant. The Biggest Tourney the NCAA has. is now going on. The NCAA is trying to exert their power of FINANCIAL GAIN to the CITIES, and STATES. Example is the threat to North Carolina. Change your STATE LAW: regarding restroom use OR…ELSE !! No hosting of NCAA Events. They did this with College mascots…and got by with it. NOW! They are pressuring States to… DO AS WE TELL YOU. NOT WHAT YOUR RESIDENTS WANT. It seems to me the NCAA has outgrown their britches and either needs to be ousted or NEW leadership that does what the organization was set up to do, and not overstep their bounds. I don’t know how to fight this. We could boycott all NCAA events. But that would also hurt the Schools, its Athlete, and punish the FAN BASE. The only real answer is for the colleges,and universities to withdraw from the NCAA and set up a new organization to oversee the SPORTS, and leave it at that. But that will never happen. They apparently can not see where the NCAA is leading them. It appears North Carolinians have bowed to the almighty dollar. NCAA money apparently speaks louder than the citizens voice. North Carolina ceded to the GIANT NCAA to repeal their bathroom bill. While I am on my stump. There is all this talk of “Student Athletes” being paid to play. THEY ARE BEING PAID, They are getting an education, for all intents and purposes FREE. ONE other thing I will inject here, (like it or not). Enough of these athletes going to school, (basically free), then abandoning their education, for the big bucks of PROFESSIONAL SPORTS. I have no problem with them jumping for the big money they are offered. BUT!!! They have taken scholarship money from students who really need it to get an education. I PROPOSE. Any student athlete, not completing school, (to go pro), should REPAY the scholarship money. OR The Professional Team/Organization, employing them should Repay the scholarship. These Professional teams USE College/Universities as a “MINOR LEAGUE” to develop players. Not so much Baseball, Hockey, or other sports, HOWEVER, it seems FOOTBALL, and Basketball are the big offenders of this use. As always this is just my opinion. That Is The Way I See It. NORTHWESTERN WINS FIRST NCAA MARCH MADNESS GAME EVER. Defeating Vanderbilt 68 to 66. Congratulations NORTHWESTERN WELCOME TO OUR 2017 MARCH MADNESS. I am not sure How many years we have been doing this. I will have to look it up. I do know all totaled I have been having this same POOL since, 1991. Just not sure how many years I have posted on this blog. Two years in a row I had a female player win my pool. When I asked her method that made this result possible , her reply was, “I just pick the team with the best looking coach”. So everybody has their own way and reasoning of picking the winner. This is where you can print your “OFFICE POOL” Bracket, Check the scores, etc. I will have these… “MASTER BRACKET”, “What if you chose all HIGH PICKS” for each game. An “UPSET BRACKET” (if the favored team wins it will be in Green, if it is an… Continue reading NCAA MARCH MADNESS 2017
NCAA March Madness 2016
What a thrilling ending to the 2016 edition of MARCH MADNESS. North Carolina probably wishing the could have waited a couple of seconds for their final shot. I didn’t do so well. I DID however pick a number two seed to win (Michigan State); BUT it was a number two seed which won. So I have to give myself a half credit (?). It has been FUN. I plan to do this again next year. Despite my troubles with CHROME. It gave me fits in updating. I would spend sometimes an hour updating just one bracket sheet. Finally learned I had to clear my cache every time before I attempted to update anything. Be sure to check back regularly. I don’t have any idea what I will write about….. NO! wait I have some idea. Maybe some racing history. (If I can find the notes I made a couple years ago. Also…. who knows. WELCOME TO OUR 2016 MARCH MADNESS. I am not sure How many years we have been doing this. I will have to look it up. This is where you can print your “OFFICE POOL” Bracket, Check the scores, etc. I will have this “MASTER BRACKET”, “WHAT IF YOU CHOSE THE HIGH PICKS” for each game. An “UPSET BRACKET” (if the favored team wins it will be in Green, if it is an upset it will be listed in RED”. And, Yes I will have my picks so you can compare your picks to mine. (And Laugh or Cry) 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 Michigan St were 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. I am reminded of one year in our STATE High School WRESTLING Tournament. The Athletic Assn. decided to go with a draw, rather than seeding. The Result? Two wrestlers with one defeat each faced each other in the first match. Loser of a first round match goes home. It was a 3 OT match. One of these wrestlers went home, while wrestlers with more losses during the season advanced. The winner of this match had no competition left. Easy wins. He won the CHAMPIONSHIP that first match. Not much excitement. Reportedly there is a TEENAGE GIRL in Indiana who has only missed 3 games in this years bracket. She picked Texas over Northern Iowa. California over Hawaii. Final game she had Syracuse over North Carolina. Her Champion pick is……VILLANOVA. She says she does not follow Basketball regularly and has only attended a game or two at her high school. Maybe this is proof the rest of us over think some things To print BRACKET: Click on PRINT PDF button at top and select page with the bracket you want to print. ( If you do not see the “PRINT PDF” button. Please go to the The Title “NCAA March Madness 2016” and click to advance to the full post). MASTER BRACKET [pdf-embedder url=”https://fromthemiddle.blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/2016-march-madness-MASTER-bracket.pdf”] ALL HIGH PICKS [pdf-embedder url=”https://fromthemiddle.blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/2016-march-madness-ALL-HIGH-PICKS-bracket.pdf”] UPSETS [pdf-embedder url=”https://fromthemiddle.blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/2016-march-madness-UPSETS-bracket.pdf”] MY PICKS [pdf-embedder url=”https://fromthemiddle.blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/2016-march-madness-MY-PICKS-bracket.pdf”] Views: 109
NCAA 2015 MARCH MADNESS
NCAA MARCH MADNESS TOURNAMENT. Right now it appears that Kentucky will receive the overall number one seed. Which guarantees them the easiest path to the final four. Here is where I make many of you mad. Might just as well get it out of the way right now. After careful consideration I predict KENTUCKY will be the first NUMBER ONE seed out. Kentucky is a good team and appears as of now they will go undefeated in regular season. But if you look at their schedule…..WHO have they played. A few teams that may be in the Tournament. But looking at their overall schedule, it has been pretty much of a soft schedule. In other years it could have been a tough schedule. But this year, well it was a disappointment. All teams have these years….maybe. But it may work out for them. While they have pretty much coasting, and other teams have been going toe to toe. They may be the most rested team entering the Tournament. Is it possible for a team with a losing record be in the BIG DANCE? Just ask MEAC Tournament Champion Hampton Pirates. With a 16-17 record. The answer is yes. Can they wear the Glass Slipper? 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 Kentucky were to be seeded as a number 16. They would still have to win all games to be CHAMPION ! OKAY. so I was wrong Villanova was first number 1 out. So That makes Kentucky 2nd Number 1 seed out. I called it right the second time!! Kentucky was the second number 1 out. They did play well. But their weak regular season schedule did not prepare them for the stronger teams. It took a last second desperation shot to overcome Notre Dame. But Wisconsin’s tough season made them ready. The behavior of the Kentucky “FANS” back in Kentucky I am sure did not reflect the feelings of the Wildcat Coaches and Players. However their acts do reflect back to them, the University, and The STATE. I still do not understand this type of childish behavior. It does not change the outcome of the game. Maybe “TOO Much ALCOHOL” is an excuse. But that would be all it was. NOT A REASON! Kentucky did make it a lot farther than I expected. Hats off to Kentucky Team for not quitting. Maybe next year (for a change) they will return with experienced players, and not have to rely on Freshmen. Here is to next year Kentucky. Season is over. Congratulations to DUKE. It is hard to say one bad call changes the outcome of a game. However a couple of bad calls and NO CALLS. Can alter a game. In what I saw was DUKE get more than their share the last 3 minutes of the game. I saw them commit charges that were mis -called BLOCKS. I saw Duke throw up there forearms to clear space. I really think the REFS let the game get out of control. Of course You can make the excuse that they were letting the teams play. HOWEVER, the Most Questionable Non Call was with about 2 minutes +/-. It was plenty obvious the Ball went out last touched by DUKE’s Winslow I think. I am not really good with names. But no one can say for sure if that really made a big difference, DOWN by 5. It would have given the BADGERS a chance to score and cut the lead by 2 or 3, (if they scored). This could have changed the momentum, or not. Who can say? But it is over no going back. I WANT TO POINT OUT THAT UNLIKE KENTUCKY, I SAW NO BEHAVIOR ON THE PART OF EITHER TEAMS FANS. (hope I’m not speaking too soon). But Hats off to them for showing maturity. Well THAT IS HOW I SEE IT. Check back for other articles throughout the year. Maybe some Public Service Announcements, or who knows what may strike my fancy. Maybe a few sports articles. but I Just have not been able to get into baseball since the strike which brought about the PED thing when they allowed Mark McGuire to hit those home runs to generate interest in the game. Just like the NBA let MJ get by with making his own rules to create interest in their arena. I can’t really call them sports any more. But will be back with our usual Football coverage. ACTUAL / RESULTS https://fromthemiddle.blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/2015-MM-Brackett-Actual.pdf ALL-High-Picks. https://fromthemiddle.blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/2015-MM-Bracket-ALL-High-Picks1.pdf UPSETS https://fromthemiddle.blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/2015-MM-Brackett-Upsets1.pdf MY PICKS https://fromthemiddle.blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/2015-MM-Brackett-My-Picks.pdf Views: 120
It Is MARCH MADNESS TIME
Finally it is MARCH MADNESS!!!!!. Who will be the Number One team this year? Who will be the CINDERELLA team? Could this be the year a 16 seed upsets a number 1 seed? Who will be the most upset minded team? Could we see a one Conference final game. Maybe even a one Conference FINAL FOUR. Will SOMEONE Come Up with a PERFECT PICK SHEET. WOW! Lots of possibilities waiting for us. Maybe your favorite School Will WIN First we have to have our 68 teams. So Knowing you can’t account for the NCAA’s Comittee, THEY have an altogether sometimes strange reasoning for their picks. One thing I really don’t like is this. The committee has decided to add 4 teams they would not have included in the original 64. They may take one of these teams to play into a 12 seed spot. They may have 2 of these teams play into the same SET OF 16. The way I see it they should have these teams play in by having them play the 16 seeds. That way you have one play in, in each block of 16. But; Going out on a limb. I have selected these 68 teams to play in the NCAA Tournament of 2013. In Alphabetical Order. [table]1st 16, 2nd 16,3rd 16,4th 16 1. Akron, 18. Hampton, 35. Memphis,52. St. Mary’s 2. Arizona, 19. Harvard, 36. Miami,53. San Diego St. 3. Belmont, 20. Illinois, 37. Michigan. ,54. S. Dakota 4. Boise St, 21. Indiana, 38. Michigan St. ,55. Southern 5. Bucknell, 22 Iona, 39. Minnesota. ,56. Stephen F. Austen 6 Butler, 23. Iowa St. , 40. Missouri. .,57. Syracuse 7. California, 24. James Madison.,41.Montana ,58. Temple 8. Cincinnati, 25 Kansas, 42. New Mexico ,59. Tennessee 9. Colorado, 26. Kansas St, 43. N.Carolina,60. UCLA 10. Colorado St., 27. Kentucky, 44. N. Carolina St.,61. UNLV 11. Creighton, 28 LaSalle, 45. Notre Dame,62. Valparaiso 12. Davidson, 29. Liberty, 46. Ohio St.,63. Va. Commonwealth 13. Duke, 30. Long Beach St., 47. Oklahoma, 64. Vermont 14. Florida, 31LIU Brooklyn., 48. Oklahoma St., 65. Villanova 15. Florida Gulf Coast, 32. Louisiana Tech., 49. Oregon,66. W. Kentucky 16. Georgetown, 33. Louisville, 50.Pittbursgh , 67. Witchita St. 17.Gonzaga,34. Marquette,51. St. Louis,68. Wisconsin [/table] Now my Picks for Number one seeds. (which will not happen due to the NCAA’s need to spread the wealth). The most deserving (as I see it) Indiana, Michigan St., Michigan, and Gonzaga. I Know a lot of you will wonder why I have 3 teams from the Big Ten. Simply because, The strength of the Big 10 this year. I think if any of these teams were in ANY other conference they would have been the number one team. That is the way I see it. Join me for our annual Picks un-contest SEE if you can beat me. I once again will have my picks using the upper ranked team, my personal picks, and the actual finishes. Views: 121
NCAA Tournament Picks Night Two
So, as I said yesterday, I will now give my picks for Wednesday’s games. But First let me say I didn’t do too well yesterday. Who would think a team could shoot 30%, have 28 turnovers and still win. Oh well, Isn’t that why it is called “March Madness” ? Anything can happen. WEDNESDAY MARCH 14,2012. 6:30 pm Tonight we begin with a game of basketball featuring LAMAR UNIVERSITY, CARDINALS. Representing the Southland (east) Conference. Out of Beaumont Texas. This will be Lanar University’s first appearance in March Madness since the year 2000. The Cardinals come into tournament play with a 23-11 record. A schedule that is stronger than weak but less than a medium toughness schedule. Lamar will meet Vermont. University of Vermont. The CATAMOUNTS from Burlington,Vermont, and representing the American East Conference. With a 23-11 record comes in with a similar schedule difficulty, similar to their opponent Lamar. This will be their first appearance since 2010. This is a difficult pick, two quite similar teams. My pick is…(drum roll) Vermont by 3 points or less. WEDNESDAY MARCH 14,2012 9 pm Our final play in game of the year brings us from the Pacific 12 Conference the University California, Berkley Golden Bears, from Berkley California. Entering with a 24-9 record, Had an impressive strong schedule this year. The Golden Bears will meet University South Florida, Bulls. The Bulls represent the Big East Conference with a 20-13 record. They too had a very strong schedule. This game I will have to give the edge to South Florida, by 2 points. Recap: Vermont moving on to the Midwest Region as a number 16 seed facing number 1 seed North Carolina. South Florida also enters the Midwest Region as a number 12 seed against number 3 seeded Marquette. That Is How I See It, Views: 451
My NCAA Picks Play In Games
Many of you play your office NCAA Pool. As I no longer have anyone but myself in my office, I’m just going to share my first four picks with you. So be this a short post here goes. TUESDAY MARCH 13, 2012 7 pm Mississippi Valley State, (20-12), Located in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. Known as the “Delta Devils” The Southwestern Athletic Conference Champs. Take on the Western Kentucky “Hilltoppers” of Bowling Green Kentucky. Represent Sun Belt (East) Conference, made their last NCAA Tournament appearance in 2009 I see all the games as being close and highly competitive. But looking at the quality of schedule I will have to give the nod to Mississippi Valley State . Most likely by less than 5 points. UM!!! Can I rewrite this? Great game. Great comeback WKU. TUESDAY MARCH 13,2012 9 ish BYU (Brigham University), Cougars coming out of Provo Utah, appears to have a relatively weak schedule, (compared to the majority of schools in the tournament). Representing the West Coast Conference, and SWEET SIXTEEN appearance last year. Face off with Iona, “Gaels” from New Rochelle, New York. Representing the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference also has a weak schedule. So this should make up an interesting match up. My pick Iona by 4 points or less. Good Luck to all four teams. To Recap I have: Mississippi Valley State moving on as 16 seed in the SOUTH Region to face Overall Number One seed Kentucky . Iona College to a 14 seed in the West Region facing Number 3 Marquette’ Tomorrow I will post my other two game picks. Then my entire tournament picks will before the first game of the 64 is played. I really need to rewrite this. That Is How I See It. Views: 282
