Ncaa 2k3 cb: Missouri Tigers

[MizzouRah]

The usual blab about having kids and working hard, this will be a slow paced dynasty. I hade a rather brief dynasty with FOF4, kind of grew tired of 3 min games and 10 min posts. I envy some of you who post several seasons. Since this a joystick game, posting should be an extra and not the main show.

Anyhow, I thought about using the career setting in legacy mode and start with a low tier team, but I wanted to 'jump' right in with my favorite team with no practice whatsoever. I'm also not too sure how much time I will have to play games, since it takes about 1/2 hour to play a full game.

Settings
Ncaa College Basketball 2k3 (Sega - ps2)
Legacy mode - open setting
All-American Level
Missouri Tigers
Real players, fictitious names
17 Min halves - fast pace

Let's meet the 2002-2003 Missouri Tigers!

#50 Arthur Johnson 6'9" C 265 JR - He will be the core of this team, banging his way to the basket.
#5 Travon Bryant 6'9" PF 245 JR - Can be dominate if he chooses to be.
#0 Ricky Clemons 5'11" PG 168 JR - The 'battery' of the team who can hit 3's.
#15 Josh Kroenke 6'4" SG 194 JR - A 3-pt man from the bench.
#33 Najeeb Echols 6'7" SF 234 SO - He could surprise me. His potential is good, but can he be a factor?
#10 Ryan Kiernan 6'0" PG 188 SR - Similar to James, without the 'flair'.
#23 Rickey Paulding 6'5" SG 209 JR - Could be the 'star' on the team if he plays hard.
#32 Jeffrey Ferguson 6'10" C 240 SO - Don't know much about Shane yet, he'll give Jones a rest when needed.
#14 Kevin Young 6'9" PF 290 FR - This guy is a MAMMOTH, I can't wait to see if he can shoot it.
#30 Rob Stewart 6'7" SF 195 FR - no comment
#34 Jake Jackson 6'4" SF 190 FR - no comment
#1 Jimmy McKinney 6'4" SG 190 FR - Once he learns how to work the ball, I think he'll be solid.

(highlighted players are starters)

Schedule
American W(76-58)
Austin Peay W(73-37)
Central Cal L(61-57)
@ USC [TV] L(79-66)
WS-Green Bay W(78-40)
Memphis [TV] W(70-51)
Illinois [TV] L(54-51)
Valparaiso [TV] W(84-65)
@ Iowa [TV] W(72-52)
Centenary W(94-48)
Baylor [TV] W(63-55)
@ Syracuse [TV] W(71-56)
@ Oklahoma State [TV] W(79-57)
Iowa State W(60-48)
@ Texas [TV] L(74-72)
@ Nebraska [TV]
Colorado [TV]
@Kansas [TV]
Texas Tech [TV]
@Texas A&M
Kansas St. [TV]
Nebraska [TV]
@Colorado [TV]
Oklahoma [TV]
@Kansas St. [TV]
@Iowa St.
Kansas [TV]


Top 25
Press Poll
1. Kansas
2. Duke
3. Mississippi State
4. Maryland
5. UConn
6. Alabama
7. Oklahoma
8. Miami
9. Pittsburgh
10. Xavier
11. Gonzaga
12. Texas Tech
13. USC
14. Utah
15. Texas
16. Oklahoma St.
17. California
18. Western Kentucky
19. Pennslyvania
20. Kentucky
21. Illinois
22. Tulsa
23. San Diego St.
24. Michigan St.
25. Ohio St.


Missouri will open the season at home vs American. I'm glad I have an easy team to start with as I haven't played this game yet. I'm going to try to run a fast break game as I expect some turnovers against this team. I also set my coaching strategies for crashing the boards and playing a 'team' style game. Anything less than a 10 point victory will have me work these guys like mad before the next game. I expect a big game from our center, Arthur Johnson and some nice ball movement from our point guard, Ricky Clemons. Hopefully some of my bench can get some playing time as well so I can start to evaluate their level of talent and potential.

Next up: American vs Missouri

[MizzouRah]

American (0-0) vs Missouri Tigers (0-0)

I started off cold, but as I learned the game, my team starting making shots. I led 44-36 at halftime and had a good run about midway in the half. They got as close as 5 points in the second half, but my bench was too strong for them. I won 76-58 and improved my record to (1-0).

Two things I really hate is the lack of fouls in the game and the missed 5 footers, other than that the game has been fun so far. You have to know where you are when you shoot and your field goal percentage will go up.

Game MVP
#50 C Arthur Johnson (Missouri)
16 points - 2 assists - 12 rebounds - 1 block - 4 steals
FG: 8-14 (57.1%)

American had a freshman center that beat me up underneath. He finished with 16 points and 11 rebounds.

Next game I'll post more stats, I'm forgetting to write things down as I finish my game. The Top 25 posted previously is the same for this week.


Next week Austin Peay comes to town. Again, I should dominate for the most part. I expect big games from my starters and hope to see some players emerging as leaders. I will try to limit Austin Peay's inside game and crash the boards. They are a smallish team so expect a good rebound margin.

Next post: Austin Peay (1-0) vs Missouri Tigers (1-0)

[MizzouRah]

Austin Peay (1-0) vs Missouri Tigers (1-0)

The game I had been hoping for! We blow them out 73-37, mostly due to our size vs theirs, plus a 14-0 run to start the game didn't hurt us either. We out rebound them 50-26, they shot 37.8% from the field and we shot 44.3%.

Player of the game:
#50 C Arthur Johnson
20 pts 11 reb 3 stl 3 blk
10-18 fg 55.6%

#5 PF Trevon Bryant had a great game as well, chipping in 20 points, 16 rebounds (11 offensive), and shot 10-15 from the field for a 66.7%.

Top 25
Press Poll
1. Kansas
2. Duke
3. Maryland (4)
4. Oklahoma (7)
5. Mississippi St. (3)
6. UConn (5)
7. Miami (8)
8. Alabama (6)
9. Pitt
10. Cinncinatti (NR)
11. Gonzaga
12. Xavier (10)
13. Indiana (NR)
14. Texas (15)
15. USC (13)
16. Texas Tech (12)
17. Arizona (NR)
18. Cal (17)
19. Oklahoma St. (16)
20. San Diego St. (23)
21. Michigan St. (24)
22. Oregon (NR)
23. Pennslyvania (19)
24. Wake Forest (NR)
25. NC St. (NR)

( ) = previous week's ranking
Teams knocked out of the Top 25: Utah, Western Kentucky, Kentucky, Illinois, Tulsa, and Ohio State

Next up: Central Cal (1-1)

At home again, so I hope we can come out hot like we did against Austin Peay. I just want to stay healthy this game and set our sights on USC the following week (our first televised game). Arthur Johnson should have another solid game on the boards and I will look to him inside whenever possible. I also hope we can establish some outside presence as well.

Next post: Central Cal (1-1) vs Missouri Tigers (2-0)

[MizzouRah]

Central Cal (1-1) vs Missouri Tigers (2-0)

Looking foward to the USC game left me cocky and Central Cal came out smoking. Down 37-30 at the half, I couldn't believe what was happening to me after two easy blowouts. I managed to take a brief lead with 4 mins left in the game, but lost it with terrible shooting decisions. Final score, 61-57 Monarchs. I sat there staring at the TV wondering if was real. [Wake up call] We have #17 USC next week and I'm not sure I want to play this game. What am I doing wrong? I'll have to play this game with complete concentration.

Central Cal - 61
Missouri - 57

Central shot 54.2%, Missouri shot 37.0%
Missouri was also 0-6 from the free throw line. (I hate free throws!) I out offense rebounded them 19-3 and still lost.

Player of the game:
#40 PG Brent Porter (CCal)
14.0pts 7 assist FG 6-10 60.0%

Mizzou notes:
#0 PG Ricky Clemons
13.0pts 1 assist 3 reb 1 stl 1 blk

#23 SG Rickey Paulding
10pts 12 reb

#50 C Arthur Johnson
12pts 8 reb 3 stl 5 blk


Top 25
1. Kansas
2. Duke
3. Maryland
4. Oklahoma
5. UConn (6)
6. Mississippi St. (5)
7. Alabama (8)
8. Miami (7)
9. Pittsburgh
10. Cincinnati
11. Gonzaga
12. Xavier
13. Arizona (17)
14. Indiana (13)
15. Texas (14)
16. Texas Tech
17. USC (15)
18. Oklahoma St. (19)
19. California (18)
20. San Diego St.
21. Oregon (22)
22. Michigan St. (21)
23. Pennslyvania
24. Wake Forest
25. North Carolina St.

( ) = previous week's ranking

Next up: Missouri Tigers (2-1) vs #17 USC (4-0)

We travel to Southern California to play a team who is off to a great start. We need this win to bring confidence back to this team. I challenge anyone who can score 20 or more this game. I don't want any bad shots and I want a slower paced game.


Next post: Missouri Tigers (2-1) vs #17 USC (4-0)

[MizzouRah]

#17 USC (4-0) vs Missouri Tigers (2-1)

I'm a little peeved right now. The steals and missed shots annoyed me to no end tonight. I need practice and I need it in a BIG way. I really felt like throwing my controller accross the room and quitting the game, but I must press on!

"It never rains in Southern California", unless you're talking about the Trojans, because today they unleashed a thunderstorm on the Tigers and beat them 79-66.

They shot 68.0% from the field and held the Tigers to a 37.2 shooting percentage. The Tigers were 2-15 from 3pt range.

Player of the game:
#15 C Tommy Straight SR (USC)
36pts 1 assist 12 reb 9 dreb 3 blk
FG 16-22 72.7%

That guy reminded me of Shaq, slamming everything in sight.

Missouri noteables:
#50 C Arthur Johnson
24pts 1 assist 10 reb 8 oreb 6 stl 2 blk
FG 12-21 57.1%

#5 PF Trevon Bryant
16pts 8 reb

Season Leaders:
#4 C Maurice Poole (Kansas)
28.0 ppg

#3 PG Henry Rose (Youngstown)
9.3 apg

#55 C Scott Reynolds (Michigan St.)
17.0 rpg

#42 C Garrett Scott (Virginia)
7.0 bpg

#15 PG Reece Toussaint (Hawaii)
5.0 spg

#4 PF Zach Borders (Iowa)
3-pts (13)

Top 25
Press Poll
1. Kansas
2. Duke
3. Oklahoma (4)
4. Maryland (3)
5. Cincinnati (10)
6. UConn (6)
7. Pitt (9)
8. Arizona (13)
9. Alabama (7)
10. Mississippi St. (6)
11. Miami (8)
12. Illinois (NR)
13. Florida (NR)
14. Gonzaga (11)
15. Texas Tech (16)
16. Texas (15)
17. USC
18. Oklahoma St.
19. Micigan St. (22)
20. NC St. (25)
21. Georgia (NR)
22. Xavier (12)
23. Indiana (14)
24. Cal (19)
25. South Carolina (NR)

( ) = previous week's ranking
Teams knocked out of the top 25: San Diego St., Oregon, Pennslyvania, and Wake Forest

Next up: WS-Green Bay (1-2)

Back home and we need a good showing. Already, this game is a MUST win for us. I insert FR SG Jimmy McKinney in place of SO SF Najeeb Echols. McKinney scored 5 points in his debut with Missouri last game and he's a spark plug out there. We need something to shake up this team. Management lets me know the won't be pleased with a loss at home vs WS-Green Bay.

C Arthur Johnson answered my call of 20pts or more last game and he gets a free day off this week.

[MizzouRah]

I wish you would enter their names though. Just the Tigers

Dynasty has been updated and I will do the same in the game when I get home. Of course Echols and Stewart aren't on the team anymore.

Anyhow, here is Missouri's starting five for the upcoming game vs WS-Green Bay

C #50 Arthur Johnson
PF #5 Trevon Bryant
PG #0 Ricky Clemons
SG #1 Jimmy McKinney (in place of SF Najeeb Echols)
SG #23 Rickey Paulding


Todd

[MizzouRah]

WS-Green Bay (1-2) vs Missouri Tigers (2-2)

Our hard practices paid off, we beat WS-Green Bay 78-40. I was very pleased at the hustle we showed tonight. I pressed all game and subbed out frequently.

Player of the game:
PF #5 Trevon Bryant
16pts 2 assist 11 reb 4 stl
FG 8-9 88/9%

Missouri Noteables:
C #50 Arthur Johnson
18pts 8 reb

SG #23 Rickey Paulding
11pts

WS-Green Bay leading scorer:
C #34 Isaiah Scott
15pts 14 reb 10 dereb

Missouri shot 45.5% from the field
WS-Green Bay shot 40.9% from the field

Missouri out-rebounded WS-Green Bay 40-26 and had 23 offensive rebounds. 19 of WS-Green Bay's 26 rebounds came from the defenseive side.

Top 25
Press Poll
1. Kansas
2. Duke
3. Oklahoma
4. Maryland
5. Cincinnati
6. UConn
7. Pitt
8. Arizona
9. Alabama
10. Miss St.
11. Miami
12. Illinois
13. Florida
14. Gonzaga
15. Texas Tech
16. Texas
17. USC
18. Oklahoma St.
19. Michigan St.
20. NC st.
21. Georgia
22. Xavier
23. Indiana
24. Cal
25. South Carolina

No changes this week


Next week:
Memphis (4-1) vs Missouri Tigers (3-2)

Memphis's wins have come from weak teams and they lost to Austin Peay. We should have an easy game, but I'm a little worried. We'll press them early and try to establish a fast paced game. I would love to face Illinois at (4-2) and a chance to get closer to the top 25.

Same starting 5 this week. Viewers across America will get another taste of Missouri as we are back on TV. We need to do well.

[MizzouRah]

Memphis - 51 Missouri - 70

Missouri improves its record to 4-2 with a 19pt victory over the Memphis Tigers. Starting Center Arthur Johnson was injured just 7 mins into the game, but his replacement, Jeffrey Ferguson made up for the loss, scoring 16pts off the bench. In fact, viewers saw just how deep Missouri is off the bench.

Player of the game:
C #32 Jeffrey Ferguson
16 pts 2 assist 10 reb 6 oreb 1 steal
FG 8-10 80.0%

Missouri Noteables:
PF #5 Trevon Bryant
12 pts 6 reb

SG #1 Jimmy McKinney
10 pts

Memphis leading scorer:
C #30 Deantoine Len Bullicer - 7'0" tall
20 pts 6 reb

Missouri shot 46.4 from the field
Memphis shot 58.1 from the field
Missouri out rebounded Memphis 35-20 and had 13 steals

Top 25
Press Poll
1. Kansas
2. Duke
3. Maryland (4)
4. Oklahoma (3)
5. UConn (6)
6. Pittsburgh (7)
7. Alabama (9)
8. Arizona
9. Miami (11)
10. Mississippi St.
11. Illinois (12)
12. Gonzaga (14)
13. Cincinnati (5)
14. Kentucky (NR)
15. Xavier (22)
16. Texas
17. USC
18. Indiana (23)
19. Florida (13)
20. Texas Tech (15)
21. North Carolina St. (20)
22. Georgia (21)
23. Ohio St. (NR)
24. Utah (NR)
25. Marquette (NR)

( ) = previous week's ranking
Teams knocked out of the top 25: Oklahoma St., Cal, South Carolina, and Michigan St.

Big 12 Team Leaders:
Pts/gm: 89.3 (Kansas)
Reb/gm: 39.5 (Missouri)
Ast/gm: 18.4 (Texas)
Oreb/gm: 21 (Missouri)
Dreb/gm: 20 (Nebraska)
Blk/gm: 7.1 (Texas Tech)
Stl/gm: 13.3 (Missouri)
FG%/gm: 52.2% (Kansas)
3pt%: 40% (Oklahoma)

Next up for the Tigers: #11 Illinios (5-2) (TV)

The Tigers have another chance to prove they belong in the Top 25, playing a good Illinios team. 'Border War' should be an exciting game to watch for fans of both squads. Center Arthur Johnson returns to the lineup and should be fully healthy for the Tigers.

This will be a tough game for us, but I think we are getting better as the season grows. We want a slower paced game as the Illini can run as good as any top team. I hope we can shoot the ball as good as last game but I know Illinios has a tight defense. Should be fun!

#11 Illinios (5-2) vs Missouri Tigers (4-2)

[MizzouRah]

#11 Illinios - 54 Missouri - 51

With 5.3 seconds on the clock, Illinios SF Jim Carroll threw up a desparation shot that sent shock waves through Columbia. The buzzer sounded and all you could hear was the 'swish' from a perfect half-court shot by Carroll. "This one is going to haunt us for some time", said coach Volmert. Missouri was down 30-28 at halftime, in what was a display of two great defenses battling for each possesion. Illinios lead by as much as 12 in the second half, but Missouri's defense tightened up as they tied the game at 51 on a basket by Rickey Paulding with 5.3 seconds left in the game. Illinios inbounded the ball and Jim Carroll threw up a desparation shot that hit nothing but the net. Illinios improves to 6-2 on the season and the Tigers fall to 4-3.

Jim Carroll (IL) averages 15.3 points a game and shoots 50.9% from the field. He is in his third season with Illinios.

Missouri shot 31.9% from the floor
Illinios shot 49.6% from the floor
Both teams had 17 turnovers
Missouri out rebounded Illinios 42-33 with 21 offensive rebounds

Player of the game:
C #50 Arthur Johnson
15 pts 11 reb 8 oreb 4 stl 3 blk
FG 7-9 77.8% (double-double)

Illinios leading scorer:
C #34 Sammy Wilcox
13 pts 12 reb 10 dreb

Other Missouri noteables:
PG #0 Rickey Clemons
10 pts

I'm going with the ESPN poll for the Top 25. It seems more accurate than the press poll. Once the RPI is in effect, it will replace the ESPN poll. After my game, I sim until my next game and then write down the Top 25.

Top 25
1. Duke (6-0)
2. Kansas (4-1)
3. Oklahoma (6-1)
4. Arizona (6-1)
5. Maryland (5-2)
6. Alabama (8-1)
7. Pittsburgh (8-1)
8. UConn (7-1)
9. Miami (8-1)
10. Mississippi St. (6-3)
11. USC (7-0)
12. Illinios (7-2)
13. Indiana (7-1)
14. Georgia (8-2)
15. Florida (7-2)
16. Gonzaga (8-2)
17. Xavier (7-3)
18. Mississippi (10-0)
19. North Carolina St. (6-1)
20. Kentucky (4-3)
21. Texas (6-2)
22. UCLA (6-1)
23. Texas Tech (6-3)
24. Michigan St. (6-1)
25. Cincinnati (4-5)


Next week: Valparaiso Crusaders (3-7) at Missouri Tigers (4-3)

I think a couple of days off would do us some good. I hope that last game doesn't throw this team into a funk. A win is all I want, I don't care if it's by 30 points or 1 point.

[BFleming]

You definitely have me following along MizzouRah...I have the game, but I never got into it until after I read your dynasty report...back into it now, i'm 10-4 w/ the Coastal Carolina Chanticleers (damn crappy choice of starting teams in the career-style legacy..lol)

just an fyi...if you're having trouble scoring, especially on fast breaks, tap the crossover button then shoot...you don't even have to wait for the animation to finish..for some reason it seems hitting that button will widen the available dunk/layup area quite a bit

[Blade6119]

NOOOOOOO....stupid illini...go mizzou....

Maybe in your second season you could create Jason Conley to reflect real life

[MizzouRah]

Thanks to both of you!

BFleming,

Sounds like you are doing well in your dynasty, a 10-4 record? Nice indeed. I will have to try the crossover move. I am getting better at the open shot.


Blade6119,

Yes, that game was a heartbreaker! If I recruit a good foward/guard, I will name him Jason Conley.


Todd

[MizzouRah]

Valparaiso - 65 Missouri - 84

Valparaiso kept the game close early on, but Missouri proved to be too much to handle, winning by 19 points. Missouri had 26 turnovers, but Valpo could not capitalize on them. A key factor was Missouri's 14 steals. Both teams had 24 rebounds and shot well from the floor.

Missouri shot 56.9% from the field.
Valpo shot 57.7% from the field.

We went from a defensive game, to an offensive game. Midway through the first half, Jimmy McKinney ran into 7'0'' Valpo Center Johnathan Anderson and he would not return. You could see Valparaiso's head coach bow his head when he saw the collision. Missouri played very physical and ran the fast break very well.

Assistant Missouri coach, James Ogden said, "We have to play physical if we want to control the game", "I think some teams have intimidated us and that gets us out of how we play as a team." Missouri improves its record to (5-3).

Player of the game:
C #50 Arthur Johnson
15 pts 3 asst 6 reb 4 stl 1 blk
FG 7-9 77.8%

AJ takes control of another game, imagine that.

Other Missouri noteables:
PF #5 Trevon Bryant
16 pts 6 reb 2 stl

SF #33 Najeeb Echols
12 pts 4 asst 5 reb

PG #0 Ricky Clemons
12 pts 4 stl

Valparaiso leading scorer:
PF #5 Chris Roy
18 pts 5 asst 10 reb 7 dreb 2 blk
FG 8-16 50.0%

Top 25 - ESPN Poll
1. Duke (7-0)
2. Kansas (4-1)
3. Oklahoma (7-1)
4. Arizona (7-1)
5. Maryland (5-3)
6. Alabama (8-2)
7. Pittsburgh (8-1)
8. UConn (7-1)
9. Miami (9-1)
10. Mississippi St. (7-3)
11. USC (7-0)
12. Illinios (8-2)
13. Indiana (7-1)
14. Georgia (8-2)
15. Florida (7-2)
16. Gonzaga (8-2)
17. Xavier (7-3)
18. Mississippi (10-0)
19. North Carolina St. (7-1)
20. Kentucky (5-3)
21. Texas (7-2)
22. UCLA (6-1)
23. Texas Tech (6-3)
24. Michigan St. (7-1)
25. Cincinnati (4-5)

No changes this week. Cincinnati is getting some respect from the coaches.


Next week: at Iowa (6-4) [TV]
Lead by PF #4 Zack Borders 6'7" (JR)
16.9 pts/gm

Our road games have been few and far between, in fact this is only our second road game. We are looking for our first vicory on the road and it's not going to be easy. I will try to run early on and see if I can control the tempo. I expect Iowa to do the same, especially at home. If we don't shoot well from the outside, I think we'll be in trouble.

[MizzouRah]

Iowa - 52 Missouri - 72

Iowa shot 52.2% from the floor tonight, but Missouri had 15 steals and 58 points in the paint to cruise by the Hawkeys 72-52.

Missouri shot 47.2% from the floor and Missouri center, Arthur Johnson, led all players with 16 points. He also helped on the boards with 7 rebounds. Missouri had a total of 13 offensive rebounds to Iowa's 2.

Player of the Game:
C #50 Arthur Johnson
16 pts 7 reb 5 stl 2 blk
FG 8-18 44.4%

Iowa leading scorer:
C #5 Carson Victor
14 pts 10 reb

Other Missouri noteables:
PG #0 Ricky Clemons
12 pts 3 stl

PF #14 Kevin Young (bench)
10 pts 6 reb 13 min played

Top 25 - ESPN Poll
1. Kansas (6-1) [2]
2. Duke (9-0) [1]
3. Oklahoma (8-1)
4. Arizona (8-2)
5. UConn (8 -1) [8]
6. Maryland (6-3) [5]
7. Alabama (8-3) [6]
8. Indiana (9-1) [13]
9. Pittsburgh (9-2) [7]
10. Georgia (9-2) [14]
11. Florida (8-2) [15]
12. Illinios (9-2)
13. Mississippi St. (8-3) [10]
14. Miami (9-2) [9]
15. Mississippi (11-0) [18]
16. Pennslyvania (6-1) [NR]
17. Xavier (9-3)
18. USC (8-1) [11]
19. Ohio St. (8-3) [NR]
20. Texas (7-2) [21]
21. Gonzaga (9-3) [16]
22. Marquette (7-2) [NR]
23. Michigan St. (7-2) [24]
24. Boston College (9-1) [NR]
25. California (7-2) [NR]

[ ] = previous week's ranking
Teams knocked out of the top 25: Cincinnatti, Texas Tech, UCLA, Kentucky, and NC St.

This is our first week scouting for players, I only have 1 senior this year, bench player Ryan Kiernan. I do have 5 juniors though and Arthur Johnson might be thinking NBA. This is definitly going to be a learn as you go part of the game.

Scouting: Week 1
SF Keith Brooks (Michigan) 6'8" 243 lbs
Player Caliber: *****
Player Type: Slasher
Biases: Close to home, A reputable school, A lot of playing time
(This guy caught my eye, he's a tad taller and has more bulk than Najeeb Echols.)

PF Jack Lloyd (Kansas) 6'9" 268 lbs
Player Caliber: *****
Player Type: Shot blocker
Biases: Close to home, A winning program, Visits and Calls
(He could learn from Travon his freshman year and take over the PF position his sophomore year. I like his defensive potential, too bad Kansas will probably go after him as well)

C Jacob John (Kansas) 6'11" 240 lbs
Player Caliber: ****
Player Type: Power player
Biases: Close to home, Visits and Calls, A good coach
(This would be AJ's replacement, hopefully not until after next year. He need's to hit the weight room heavy and bulk up some. Another Kansas native, oh brother.)

The only homegrown talent around is a small SG who didn't impress me. He's ranked 31st in the nation, but I won't go after him.... yet.)

Next week: Centenary Gents (3-7) vs Missouri Tigers (6-3)

KISS - Keep it simple, stupid. That's what I am going to do this week vs Centenary. Nothing fancy, just good defensive basketball and a chance to look at some of my bench players.

Centenary is led by:
PG #1 Alan Davidson
14.9 pts/gm

Missouri is led by:
C #50 Arthur Johnson
15.1 pts/gm 8.7 reb/gm

[MizzouRah]

Centenary - 48 Missouri - 94

Six missouri players scored in double digits and the Gents had 23 turnovers, allowing Missouri to trounce Centenary by 46 points. Center Arthur Johnson led the way with 19 points and 8 rebounds. Missouri improves to (7-3).

Player of the game:
C Arthur Johnson
19 pts 8 reb 3 stl 3 blk
FG 8-11 72.7%

Other Missouri noteables:
PG Ricky Clemons
14 pts 3 stl

SG Rickey Paulding
15 pts

PF Trevon Bryant
14 pts 9 reb

C Jeffrey Ferguson (bench)
10 pts

PG Ryan Kiernan (bench)
11 pts

Centenary leading scorer:
C Noel Brooks
17 pts
FG 8-10 80%


Top 25 - ESPN Poll
1. Kansas (7-1)
2. Duke (9-0)
3. Oklahoma (8-1)
4. Arizona (8-2)
5. UConn (8-1)
6. Maryland (6-3)
7. Alabama (8-3)
8. Indiana (9-1)
9. Pittsburgh (10-2)
10. Georgia (9-3)
11. Florida (8-2)
12. Illinios (9-2)
13. Mississippi St. (8-3)
14. Miami (9-2)
15. Mississippi (11-0)
16. Pennslyvania (6-1)
17. Xavier (9-3)
18. USC (8-1)
19. Ohio St. (8-3)
20. Texas (8-2)
21. Gonzaga (9-3)
22. Marquette (8-2)
23. Michigan St. (7-2)
24. Boston College (10-1)
25. California (7-2)

No changes this week.

Scouting: None this week


NCAA Team Leaders
Drake 85.3 ppg
Ball St. 18.7 apg
Missouri 36.6 rpg
Missouri 18.2 orpg
DePaul 20.5 drpg
Florida 7.2 bpg
Missouri 13.1 spg
USC 51.5 fg%
Davidson 45.8 3pt%
Notre Dame 82.1 ft%

Next game: Conference Play vs Baylor Bears (10-1) [TV]

This week starts conference play and Baylor is having a good year thus far. They haven't played a ranked team yet so I feel confident, especially at home.

Players to watch:
Missouri - C Arthur Johnson 6'9" 265 lbs [JR]
15.5 ppg 8.6 rpg FG% 56.6

Baylor - SG Tim Little 6'9" 215 lbs [SR]
20.1 ppg FG% 59.4

[Poli]

Great going Todd. I'm going to buy one of the college games today, but I'm not sure which one I'll buy. Maybe a quick stop at gamestop.com? Sounds like recruiting on your game is by state. I saw EA's game...it's by region...but if I'm not mistaken, recruits actually have a hometown as well. That would be cool. I would really like something along EA's college football recruiting wise, but that's asking too much I suppose.

[MizzouRah]

I've just scratched the surface on recruiting, I do know there is regional coverage. The neat thing is you can watch your recruits in two all star high school games.

Once I get into recruiting more, I'll post more thoughts.


Todd

[BFleming]

ardent,

ncaa2k3 is definitely the wat to go for college ball imo. March Madness only has 100 or so teams compared to 300+ in 2k3. The only plus to MM is, like NBA Live, you can get some realistic scores (albeit in an unrealistic manner) through playing 10 minute halves. Just my .02

Keep up with the dynasty Todd, I can promise the game gets better..As soon as I send this, I'm going to start my conference tourney...This game gets better and better

[illinifan999]

March Madness had one all-star game, where as NCAA2k3 has many more. THey have regional ones. Northeast, Midwest, Southeast, etc. At the end of the season they have one big game. I don't watch them yet, as I still have a crappy team. I like NCAA2k3 better because the dynasty is just a lot better.

[MizzouRah]

Keep up with the dynasty Todd, I can promise the game gets better..As soon as I send this, I'm going to start my conference tourney...This game gets better and better

The game has been quite a surprise so far. I really like the way it plays. I'm keeping up with my dynasty, so that's a plus.

Although there are some minor flaws, it plays a great game of college basketball and I'm quite surprised at how much fun I am having playing this game so far.

Thanks again for reading along, let me know if the layout is ok or if there are some things you would like to see added/changed.


Todd

[BFleming]

Todd,

Everything looks really good so far. It's nice to see a different perspective, using a major program instead of the few available in the "career" mode. I'd be interested to see the differences in recruiting once we both finish our seasons. I'm in the Big South conference vs. you in the Big XII. I'm going to recruit aggressively, and hopefully I'll only be able to land talent that doesn't hold a candle to yours. You're right that this game does have some flaws, but I've never gone through a season of anything so fast...just keep thinking "I'll just play one more game tonight" lol...Anyway, keep up the good work and I'll be following right along...

Brian

[MizzouRah]

just keep thinking "I'll just play one more game tonight" lol

Tell me about it. I'm away at a friends wedding and won't be home until tomorrow. All I can think about is playing Baylor.

Maybe I can get two games in tomorrow night. hehe...

[BFleming]

My season just ended...I was able to win the Big South tourney, translated into a #14 seed in the NCAAs with a 1st round date against Utah. Kept it close until there was about 3 minutes left, ended up losing 80-70...Going into recruiting and all now so if you have any questions, let me know...

[MizzouRah]

Baylor - 55 Missouri - 63

Up by 10 points at halftime, Missouri expected to cruise through the second half with minimal effort. Baylor pulled to within 4 points with 5 minutes left in the game, but wouldn't get any closer. Baylor drops to (10-2) on the year and Missouri wins its forth game in a row to improve to (8-3) on the year.

Game stats:
MO - FG 42.0%
BAY - FG 49.0%

MO - 37 reb
BAY - 28 reb

MO - 17 oreb
BAY - 3 oreb

Missouri also had 50 points in the paint compared to Baylor's 32.

Player of the game:
C Arthur Johnson (MO)
17 pts 11 reb 2 blk
FG 7-15 46.7%
Another double-double for AJ.

Missouri noteables:
PF Trevon Bryant
10 pts 10 reb
Nice double-double for Trevon, he was a physical force on the boards.

Baylor leading scorer:
PG Brian Weaver
12 pts 5 asst 1 stl


Top 25 - ESPN Poll
1. Kansas (8-1)
2. Duke (10-0)
3. Arizona (10-2) [4]
4. Indiana (11-1) [8]
5. Oklahoma (8-3) [3]
6. Alabama (10-3) [7]
7. UConn (9-2) [5]
8. Pennslyvania (8-1) [16]
9. Georgia (10-3) [10]
10. Mississippi (13-0) [15]
11. Pittsburgh (10-2) [9]
12. Maryland (7-4) [6]
13. Miami (11-2) [14]
14. Michigan St. (9-2) [23]
15. Boston College (11-1) [24]
16. UCLA (9-2) [NR]
17. California (9-2) [25]
18. Texas (9-2) [20]
19. Mississippi St. (9-4) [13]
20. Gonzaga (11-3) [21]
21. Illinois (10-3) [12]
22. Marquette (9-2)
23. Georgia Tech (12-0) [NR]
24. Xavier (10-4) [17]
25. Texas Tech (8-4) [NR]

[ ] = previous week's ranking
Teams knocked out of the top 25: Ohio St., USC, and Florida

Scouting Week 2:
PG Orien Norman (Missouri) 6'2" 209 lbs
Player Caliber: *****
Player Type: Floor General
Biases: Close to home, a good coach, a winning program
(I decided it was time to recruit some homegrown talent. This guy is a quarterback and can run an offense with ease.)

PF Jerry Stewart (Indiana) 6'6" 247 lbs
Player Caliber: *****
Player Type: Offensive threat, good rebounding
Biases: A good coach, close to home, a reputable school
(I like rebounders and this guy has some nice tools on the court. Don't know if I can compete with Indiana on this one.)

SG Luke Bedeau (Kansas) 6'7" 220 lbs
Player Caliber: ****
Player Type: Defensive specialist
Biases: Close to home, a reputable school, visits and calls
(What the heck, another Kansas talent. Defense? This guy can guard just about anyone.)

I need to focus on lesser players, but why not go for the gusto early on? I will come back to earth and scout some realistic players soon.


Next week: at Syracuse to take on the Orangemen (6-5) [TV]

Forget about records, playing in Syracuse is going to be tough. I will really enforce team ball this week in practice. It's time to show the NCAA what Mizzou is all about! (insert fight song)

Syracuse is led by:
SG Richie Rasmussen
13.8 ppg 52.5 FG%

Missouri is led by:
C Arthur Johnson
15.6 ppg 8.8 rpg 55.0 FG%

[BFleming]

Keep it up Todd, definitely want to hear the results of the Syracuse game..

[MizzouRah]

Played the game last night, just haven't had time to post the stats yet.


Todd

[MizzouRah]

Syracuse - 56 Missouri - 71

The game was tied, until Missouri had a 14-0 run to end the half. Syracuse cut the lead to 4, but Missouri once again had a 10-0 run and pulled away to win by 15 points. Missouri wins its 5th game in a row and improves their record to (9-3). Syracuse falls to (6-6).

Missouri shot 50% from the field and Syracuse shot 51.9%.
Syracuse had 20 turnovers to Missouri's 10.
Missouri also had 12 steals and 4 blocks.
The biggest stat was 64 points in the paint for Mizzou who killed the Orangemen inside.

Player of the game:
C Arthur Johnson
12 pts 7 reb 6 stl 1 blk
FG 6-11 54.5%

Other Missouri noteables:
PG Ricky Clemons
17 pts 2 ast 6reb 1 stl

SF Najeeb Echols
10 pts 4 reb

C Jeffrey Ferguson (bench)
10 pts 4 reb

Syracuse leading scorer:
C Dell Dickerson
22 pts 12 reb 1 stl 1blk
(Double-Double)


I finally noticed the Top 25 doesn't update until a new week starts (duh!) so I won't update it until each week starts. The same is true for scouting and league stats.


Next game: at Oklahoma St. (8-3) [TV]

Wow, it would be great to win one in Oklahoma and maybe enter the Top 25. The team will have to be sharp to win one here. I'm not counting on it, but we'll be focused.

Oklahoma St. is lead by:
C Ian Jones
12.5 ppg 7.8 rpg 3.5 bpg

Missouri is lead by:
C Arthur Johnson
15.3 ppg 8.7 rpg 3.2 spg


When a week ends, I will post End of Week.

[MizzouRah]

End of Week 10

Oklahoma St. - 57 Missouri - 79

Missouri beats the Cowboys by 22 and wins its 6 straight game in a row to improve to (10-3) overall. Missouri dominated most of the game, stealing the ball 12 times and hammered the boards for 14 offensive rebounds. Missouri looked very poised and calm as they made Oklahoma St. shoot the ball from the outiside and cutoff the inside game. Center Arthur Johson had a career high 24 points for Missouri. Center Ian Jones was in early foul trouble but still managed to score 17 points in a losing cause.

Missouri shot 53.7% from the field.
Oklahoma St. shot 55.3% from the field.

Game Fact:
Oklahoma St. had 0 steals in the game.

Player of the game:
C Arthur Johnson (Missouri)
24 pts 6 reb 1 stl 1 blk
FG 10-15 66.7%

Other Missouri noteables:
PF Trevon Bryant
12 pts 6 reb 2 stl 2 blk

Oklahoma St. leading scorer:
C Ian Jones
17pts 4 reb
FG 8-9 88.9%


Right now, the RPI isn't too accurate, so I'll stay with the ESPN poll.

Top 25 - ESPN Poll
1. Duke (12-1) [2]
2. Kansas (9-2) [1]
3. Mississippi (14-0) [10]
4. UConn (9-2) [7]
5. Pennslyvania (9-1) [8]
6. Arizona (11-3) [3]
7. Georgia (11-3) [9]
8. Indiana (12-2) [4]
9. Georgia Tech (13-0) [23]
10. Pittsburgh (13-2) [11]
11. UCLA (11-2) [16]
12. California (11-2) [17]
13. Oklahoma (9-4) [5]
14. Miami (12-2) [13]
15. Michigan St. (10-3) [14]
16. Alabama (11-4) [6]
17. Marquette (11-2) [22]
18. Maryland (8-5) [12]
19. Mississippi St. (10-4)
20. Boston College (11-2) [15]
21. Texas (10-3) [18]
22. Hawaii (10-2) [NR]
23. Xavier (11-5) [24]
24. Illinois (11-4) [21]
25. Wisconsin (12-3) [NR]

[ ] = previous week's ranking
Teams knocked out of the top 25: Texas Tech and Gonzaga

I can't believe at 10-3 I haven't cracked the Top 25 yet. Oh well, as long as I keep winning, I don't care.


Next post: Scouting, team stats, and my next opponent

[MizzouRah]

Scouting Week 3

SG Brent Kennedy 6'5" 232lbs
Player Caliber: ****
Player Type: Defensive specialist
Biases: Close to home, a reputable school, a lot of playing time
(Big and strong, just what we need)

SF Bob Archie 6'4" 177lbs
Player Caliber: *
Player Type: Defensive specialist
Biases: Visits and calls, close to home, a winning program
(Only a 1 * recruit, but I like his overall makeup)

C Mick Lindsey 6'10" 235lbs
Player Caliber: *****
Player Type: Offensive skills
Biases: A reputable school, visits and calls, a good coach
(This guy IS it, he can do it all, I don't think I have a chance, but you never know)


Starting 5 Points per game:
C Arthur Johnson 16.0
PF Trevon Bryan 11.5
PG Ricky Clemons 10.1
SG Rickey Paulding 7.2
SF Najeeb Echols 5.5

Next game: vs Iowa St. (7-5)

Iowa St. is lead by:
SF Adam Hayes (JR)
16.1 ppg

Missouri is lead by:
C Arthur Johnson (JR)
16.0 ppg 8.5 rpg

[MizzouRah]

Week 11

Iowa St. - 48 Missouri - 60

Seven in a row!! The score was tied 26-26 at halftime after a 6-0 Iowa St. run to end the half. Missouri tightened up their defense and pulled away late in the game to win by 12. Iowa St. falls to (7-6) and Missouri improves to (11-3).

Missouri shot 40.0% from the field
Iowa St. shot 42.9% from the field

Rebounds were 38-32 Missouri, with Missouri getting 17 offensive rebounds. Missouri also had 9 blocks.

Player of the game:
C Arthur Johnson
15pts 7 reb 2 stl

Other Missouri noteables:
PG Ricky Clemons
15 pts 5 reb 3 stl

PF Trevon Bryant
6 pts 8 reb

Iowa St. leading scorer:
SF Adam Hayes
12 pts 3 reb 1 stl 1 blk


Next up: Missouri (11-3) at (21) Texas (10-3)

This should be a battle, and we are playing some great basketball. If you can't get up for this game as a player, you should find a new sport. A win puts us in the Top 25, a loss... back to life as an average team.

[Poli]

Give me a call if you can...I'll pm you the numbers in a minute in case you forgot...call tomorrow (2/9) though...

[MizzouRah]

Didn't know you were coming home. Good news indeed! I will give you a call tomorrow then.

Bad thing is I'm leaving for Kansas City at 5am Monday.

[MizzouRah]

(21) Texas - 74 Missouri - 72

A classic Big 12 battle! Both teams swapped leads many times, but Texas took the lead with 3:42 left in the game and never looked back. I was on the edge of my seat the whole game. We lost, but I'm glad we could hang with a top tier team.

Here is a breakdown of the game:
FG%
Missouri - 44.4%
Texas - 58.9%

Turnovers
Missouri - 17
Texas - 13

Rebounds
Missouri - 31
Texas - 29

Offensive rebounds
Missouri - 14
Texas - 8

Steals
Missouri - 9
Texas - 8

Blocks
Missouri - 7
Texas - 4

As you can see, the game was pretty close. I really need to practice my inside defense though, as they killed me inside.

Player of the game:
C Rashod Irvin (TEX)
21 pts 9 reb 1 stl 2 blk

Missouri leading scorer:
C Arthur Johnson
19 pts 16 reb 1 stl 2 blk

Each of Missouri's starting 5 scored in double digits.

Clemons - 10
Paulding - 10
Echols - 10
Bryant - 13

Top 25 - ESPN Poll
1. Duke (14-1) [1]
2. Arizona (13-3) [6]
3. Pennslyvania (11-1) [5]
4. Kansas (10-3) [2]
5. Georgia (13-3) [7]
6. Mississippi (15-1) [3]
7. Indiana (13-3) [8]
8. UConn (12-3) [4]
9. UCLA (13-2) [11]
10. Georgia Tech (14-2) [9]
11. Pittsburgh (14-2) [10]
12. Miami (13-2) [14]
13. Michigan St. (11-3) [15]
14. Marquette (12-2) [17]
15. California (12-3) [12]
16. Oklahoma (10-5) [13]
17. St. Bonaventure (15-3) [NR]
18. Illinios (13-4) [24]
19. Wisconsin (13-3) [25]
20. Texas (11-3) [21]
21. Hawaii (12-2) [22]
22. Alabama (11-6) [16]
23. Wake Forest (11-3) [NR]
24. Temple (13-3) [NR]
25. Kentucky (11-5) [NR]

[ ] = previous week's ranking
Teams knocked out of the top 25: Xavier, Boston College, Mississippi St., and Maryland

*Maryland exists the Top 25*

End of the Week 11

Next week: Scouting, next opponent, misc..

[MizzouRah]

I'm going out of town to Kansas City on Monday for a week. I'll try to get some games in next weekend, but I know my kids will want to hang with Daddy as well.


Todd

[Poli]

Dang it Todd, I'll be in until the 17th...hopefully we can hook up...you can give me a call in about two hours or so. I should be done with my soccer game by then.

[MizzouRah]

Great news then! I will call you on Saturday the 15th, give me a time.


Todd


Hopefully, I can get a game or two in of basketball this weekend!

[Poli]

Sure thing, I just got some things taken care of today...I'll send you a PM in a sec