Maryland "Madness" highlights
Here are some highlights from "Maryland Madness" at Comcast Center:
*There was plenty of optimism mingled with all the other activities. “We’ve definitely noticed fans’ excitement about this year and it’s different from prior years,” said senior guard Eric Hayes.
*It was a night for the first-year players -- power forward Jordan Williams and James Padgett -- to be nervous. “The first time you walk out on the court, you’d better be nervous,” coach Gary Williams said. “Tomorrow (at the first practice) they’ll see what they have to do.”
*Jordan Williams missed his first shot of the 10-minute scrimmage. It was blocked by sophomore Sean Mosley, who was the star of the night as he repeatedly slashed to the basket for hoops. Williams later scored on an inside move, and Padgett had two field goals.
*Among those getting the loudest ovations were Greivis Vasquez, Mosley and Gary Williams, now in his 21st season.
“Nobody is going to work harder than us,” Vasquez told the fans. “I love you all.”
Gary Williams had entered last season’s event in a 17,000-pound Lenco Bearcat Armored vehicle with the Under Armour insignia on the side.
The crowd began chanting “Gary, Gary” before the coach walked in -– no vehicle this year -– and pumped his fist to the fans.
There were few light shows or gimmicks this season. Gary Williams said the event has been scaled back by budget cuts.
Comments
“Nobody is going to work harder than us,” Vasquez told the fans. “I love you all.”
If Vasquez doesn't make it in the NBA he would be great in soap operas and made for tv movies.
Sorry, that's just me. I'm full of vinegar. Need some 5 guys or Boardwalk fries to go with it...
Posted by: gooooooteam | October 17, 2009 6:00 AM
Can we get a little insight into how the two young guys looked, other than they made three field goals?
-----FROM JEFF------
I appreciate what you're saying. The thing to know is that it was a 10-minute scrimmage and a very loose one at that -- ., it was almost like a glorified layup line with precious little defense. That's why I glossed over analyzing it.
Posted by: wayne | October 17, 2009 9:24 AM
How did the Freshman look during the scrimmage? Do either look ready to play?
-----FROM JEFF------
I pledge to answer that as soon as I can. That scrimmage lasted all of 10 minutes and you just can't draw conclusions from it. But I will monitor their progress and report back.
Posted by: Terp in NY | October 17, 2009 11:53 AM
Gary has so many combo type players it will be extremely interesting to see who plays with whom.
Some keys:
Greivis continues to show improved decision making and plays a mature, controlled point guard, creating matchup problems each and every game.
Hayes shows improved strength and determination in finishing at the rim, to go along with solid perimeter play.
Milbourne proves deadly from 12 - 15 feet, continuing to play more 4 than 3 in my opinion. He's not good off the dribble so not an ideal 3 anyway.
Mosley makes shots.
Tucker conquers nerves.
Bowie learns to play off the ball, as well as spelling Greivis some.
Gregory, Williams, and Padgett play at least 60 minutes a game combined, providing interior d and boards.
i'm pumped, thanks for listening
Posted by: onceawarrior | October 17, 2009 3:34 PM
Jeff,
Is Maryland basketball going to have the open public scrimmage that they have had the last couple of years? My son and I had a great time at the one last year.
Posted by: Mark | October 20, 2009 9:25 AM