In 2011, California and Japan met for the Little League World Series title.
After Japan rolled Panama 10-2 in the International Championship, many thought it was a forgone conclusion that a rematch would ensue.
After clawing its way to the United States Championship from the loser's bracket, California was motivated and focused for a shot at Japan and back to back titles for the state of California.
Tennessee, a team who wasn't even supposed to win its regional final against Warner Robbins, had a different idea.
When California goes to sleep tonight, one Tennessee player will continue to haunt their dreams.
That player is Lorenzo Brown
His three home runs and nine RBI propelled Tennessee to a 24-16 win and a chance at the Little League World Series title against Japan tomorrow at 3 ET.
With these being two of the best hitting teams in the tournament, the game was primed to be a slugfest.
Tennessee didn't waste any time showing why they are still undefeated in Williamsport. After California pitcher Bradley Smith walked Jayson Smith with one out in the first, Brock Myers hit his fourth home run of the tournament, giving Tennessee a 2-0 lead.
In the bottom half of the inning, it was California's time to put some runs on the board. Porter Slate led off with a single. Logan Douglas reached on an error and Danny Marzo singled to left, loading the bases with no one out.
Next to the plate was Bradley Smith, who might be the most dominant hitter in this Little League World Series. After coming into the game 9-14, pitcher Brock Myers got Smith to ground into a huge double play. A run was scored, but a big inning was averted. Myers then struck out Kempton Brandis to end the inning with Tennessee leading 2-1.
An error by Hance Smith opened up the third inning for Tennessee. After Jack Rucker got on and moved to second on a wild pitch, Jayson Smith drove him in, making the score 3-1. With Myers coming up, California decided to make a change to the slower throwing Andrew White.
White wasn't able to have much success either as Tennessee was continuing to find holes. After three consecutive singles by Myers, Brown, and Carter, Tennessee took a 5-1 lead, still with no one out.
As if the inning couldn't get any worse for California, Lorenzo Butler sent a three run home run over the right field wall, blowing open the game and extending Tennessee's lead to 8-1.
California showed some life in the third, scoring their second run on a single by Danny Marzo. Bradley Smith then doubled down the left field line, scoring two more and making this a game once again. Before the inning had ended, California added another on a wild pitch, now only trailing 8-5.
After what looked like a 1-2-3 inning for Andrew White and California, three consecutive singles by Myers, Smith, and Carter gave Tennessee a 9-5 lead. Lorenzo Butler decided that one three run homer wasn't enough, so he decided to hit another one, increasing Tennessee's lead to 7 after four innings of play.
In the 6th inning, Tennessee had two men on with no one out and the man of the game (Lorenzo Butler) stepped up to the plate. As he did in his other two at bats, he got down to 2 strikes before crushing his third home run of the day, giving him 9 RBI (a LLWS record).
It was surely a day to remember for Butler, but he will have to continue his hot streak tomorrow if his team wants to upend a talented Japan squad.
Brock Myers pitched a decent game for the Southwest Regional champs. He went 5 innings, giving up 5 runs and striking out 8. Ryan Lyles came on in the 6th, but couldn't record an out while giving up four runs. Luke Brown came in next and retired Porter Slate for the first out with the score now 15-10. Logan Douglas cut the lead to four with a single and now we had a game on our hands. Marzo popped out to center field and California was down to their last out. Bradley Smith then doubled to bring California within three.
With California down to their last strike, Kempton Brandis hit an opposite field home run to cut the lead to one. Next up to bat was the coaches son, Hance Smith. Smith ended up doing the unthinkable and homering to tie the game at 15 and sending the game into extra innings.
In the top of the seventh, Tennessee kept its composure and exploded for 9 runs. California pitchers were over matched and couldn't keep the ball away from where Tennessee hitters could hit it.
In the bottom of the seventh, Luke Brown was able to finally close out the game while only allowing one run in the process. The best game in a while had ended and Tennessee was moving on.
Japan has been dominant throughout the LLWS, but can Tennessee hold their own and take home the crown for the United States once again?
With Jayson Smith, Brock Myers, and Lorenzo Butler in the middle of that line up, I sure don't see why not.
Saturday, August 25, 2012
Tuesday, August 21, 2012
California defeats Connecticut for Second Time, Lives to See Another Day
California might have had its most pressure filled game yesterday when Danny Marzo hit a walk off home run in the bottom of the 8th to beat New Jersey and live another day.
Even with the win, Bradley Smith was unable to pitch, their hitting had hit a bit of a slump, and they had to face a team in Fairfield, Connecticut that would want this game more than any of the 50 games they have played this summer.
With all of those factors against them, California came out focused and on a mission, defeating Connecticut for the second time and advancing to the semifinal Thursday night. After Bradley Smith went 4-4 in their first game against Fairfield, this 5-0 win rested solely on the play of their defense.
California pitcher Quinton Gago dominated the game from the mound, striking out 7 and only allowing 2 hits in 5 plus innings of work. A night after Indiana's offense was completely shutdown by Fairfield's Will Lucas, they were the ones struggling to get anything going on the offensive end.
"It was a great performance." said Hunter Smith of Quinton Gago's pitching performance. "This might have been the best I have ever seen him pitch."
If that is indeed the case, then what a time for Gago to pitch the game of his young life.
On the other hand, it was only a matter of time before the California bats began to heat up.
The bottom of the order started the rally in the second for California. With one out, Austin Paretti reached on an error in right field by Henry Prestegaard. James O'Hanlon then singled to center, putting runners on first and third. Fairfield shortstop Will Lucas made an incredible play to rob a hit by Cole Tomei, but a run scored in the process, giving California a 1-0 lead.
A simple throwing error lead to the next California run. After Bradley Smith struck out but still reached base, Austin Paretti laid down a bunt. Pitcher Matt Kubel bare-handed the ball but threw wide of Patrick Steed, putting runners on second and third. This was followed by a high fly ball by Hunter Smith. Instead of landing as a sac fly, the ball carried so much that it actually cleared the 2nd fence, giving California a demanding 4-0 lead
In what was a good pitching performance from Fairfield's Matt Kubel, errors disrupted what could have been a real pitching duel. The only mistake Kubel made was a big one. A three run home run by Hunter Smith in the third to give California a decisive 4-0 lead.
Apparently Gago didn't believe a 4-0 lead wasn't enough as he doubled in the 5th to bring home the fifth run of the game.
After coming so close to elimination, California is now in prime position to make a run in the United States bracket. Tonight was an indicator that they have plenty of pitching and an offense that seems to be coming together at the right time.
If one thing's for sure, the loser of Tennessee and Texas better be ready for a serious challenge on Thursday night. With a dominant pitcher in Bradley Smith, California seems poised to run through the loser's bracket and make a run at a Little League World Series title.
Even with the win, Bradley Smith was unable to pitch, their hitting had hit a bit of a slump, and they had to face a team in Fairfield, Connecticut that would want this game more than any of the 50 games they have played this summer.
With all of those factors against them, California came out focused and on a mission, defeating Connecticut for the second time and advancing to the semifinal Thursday night. After Bradley Smith went 4-4 in their first game against Fairfield, this 5-0 win rested solely on the play of their defense.
California pitcher Quinton Gago dominated the game from the mound, striking out 7 and only allowing 2 hits in 5 plus innings of work. A night after Indiana's offense was completely shutdown by Fairfield's Will Lucas, they were the ones struggling to get anything going on the offensive end.
"It was a great performance." said Hunter Smith of Quinton Gago's pitching performance. "This might have been the best I have ever seen him pitch."
If that is indeed the case, then what a time for Gago to pitch the game of his young life.
On the other hand, it was only a matter of time before the California bats began to heat up.
The bottom of the order started the rally in the second for California. With one out, Austin Paretti reached on an error in right field by Henry Prestegaard. James O'Hanlon then singled to center, putting runners on first and third. Fairfield shortstop Will Lucas made an incredible play to rob a hit by Cole Tomei, but a run scored in the process, giving California a 1-0 lead.
A simple throwing error lead to the next California run. After Bradley Smith struck out but still reached base, Austin Paretti laid down a bunt. Pitcher Matt Kubel bare-handed the ball but threw wide of Patrick Steed, putting runners on second and third. This was followed by a high fly ball by Hunter Smith. Instead of landing as a sac fly, the ball carried so much that it actually cleared the 2nd fence, giving California a demanding 4-0 lead
In what was a good pitching performance from Fairfield's Matt Kubel, errors disrupted what could have been a real pitching duel. The only mistake Kubel made was a big one. A three run home run by Hunter Smith in the third to give California a decisive 4-0 lead.
Apparently Gago didn't believe a 4-0 lead wasn't enough as he doubled in the 5th to bring home the fifth run of the game.
After coming so close to elimination, California is now in prime position to make a run in the United States bracket. Tonight was an indicator that they have plenty of pitching and an offense that seems to be coming together at the right time.
If one thing's for sure, the loser of Tennessee and Texas better be ready for a serious challenge on Thursday night. With a dominant pitcher in Bradley Smith, California seems poised to run through the loser's bracket and make a run at a Little League World Series title.
Friday, August 17, 2012
Indiana Uses Pitching and Timely Hitting to Advance on Little League's Biggest Stage
The lights. The stage. The pressure.
This is exactly what the kids at the Little League World Series have to live up to once they arrive at Williamsport.
The final game of day two was between Indiana, representing the Great Lakes Region, and Oregon, representing the Northwest Region.
Having the last game of the first round, both these teams have done a lot of sitting around. Luckily for both squads, they each had a pitcher who could carry a team regardless of hitting or fielding.
In the end however, Indiana was able to hold on 4 to 0.
Zero runs were put across during the first three innings as pitchers Cayden Smekens and Greg Mahlhaff were going through the opponents lineups with ease. During the fourth inning, Indiana coaches made a questionable decision by taking out ace Cayden Smekens, who was dominating the game at the time. The reason for the change was his pitch count because they wanted Smekens to pitch on two days rest instead of three.
The new pitcher for New Castle was Niah Williamson and he picked up right where Smekens left off, pitching 2 and 2/3 innings of shutout ball. Bryce Pinkard was able to come in and get the final out, securing the win for the Great Lakes.
Oregon ace Greg Mahlhaff cruised through the first four innings while only allowing 1 hit and striking out 7. It wasn't until the 5th when Indiana finally got to him.
The inning started with a single from Corey Murphy, who advanced to second on a sacrifice bunt. After a single by Brett Matney moved Murphy over to third, a wild pitch brought him home and gave Indiana a 1-0 lead. Bryce Huntley then doubled, giving Indiana 2nd and 3rd with the top of the order coming up. Mason Gillis check swung but was able to send it down the line, scoring two more and giving the Great Lakes a 3-0 lead. To top it off, clean up hitter Hunter McCubbins blooped a single into center-field, scoring another and extending their lead to 4-0.
After 4 innings with only one hit, the team from Indiana was able to dig deep and advance to the winner's bracket, despite only having a 2-2 record in regional pool play.
Oregon now moves to the loser's bracket and will play New Jersey in an elimination game Saturday at 8 PM. Meanwhile, Indiana will get a day off and play Texas Sunday at 5 PM.
In every Little League World Series, there is always a Cinderella who never seems to belong but still is able to make a deep run in the tournament.
With a pitcher in Smekens and hitters like McCubbins and Gillis, why not Indiana?
Kyle Stackpole
This is exactly what the kids at the Little League World Series have to live up to once they arrive at Williamsport.
The final game of day two was between Indiana, representing the Great Lakes Region, and Oregon, representing the Northwest Region.
Having the last game of the first round, both these teams have done a lot of sitting around. Luckily for both squads, they each had a pitcher who could carry a team regardless of hitting or fielding.
In the end however, Indiana was able to hold on 4 to 0.
Zero runs were put across during the first three innings as pitchers Cayden Smekens and Greg Mahlhaff were going through the opponents lineups with ease. During the fourth inning, Indiana coaches made a questionable decision by taking out ace Cayden Smekens, who was dominating the game at the time. The reason for the change was his pitch count because they wanted Smekens to pitch on two days rest instead of three.
The new pitcher for New Castle was Niah Williamson and he picked up right where Smekens left off, pitching 2 and 2/3 innings of shutout ball. Bryce Pinkard was able to come in and get the final out, securing the win for the Great Lakes.
Oregon ace Greg Mahlhaff cruised through the first four innings while only allowing 1 hit and striking out 7. It wasn't until the 5th when Indiana finally got to him.
The inning started with a single from Corey Murphy, who advanced to second on a sacrifice bunt. After a single by Brett Matney moved Murphy over to third, a wild pitch brought him home and gave Indiana a 1-0 lead. Bryce Huntley then doubled, giving Indiana 2nd and 3rd with the top of the order coming up. Mason Gillis check swung but was able to send it down the line, scoring two more and giving the Great Lakes a 3-0 lead. To top it off, clean up hitter Hunter McCubbins blooped a single into center-field, scoring another and extending their lead to 4-0.
After 4 innings with only one hit, the team from Indiana was able to dig deep and advance to the winner's bracket, despite only having a 2-2 record in regional pool play.
Oregon now moves to the loser's bracket and will play New Jersey in an elimination game Saturday at 8 PM. Meanwhile, Indiana will get a day off and play Texas Sunday at 5 PM.
In every Little League World Series, there is always a Cinderella who never seems to belong but still is able to make a deep run in the tournament.
With a pitcher in Smekens and hitters like McCubbins and Gillis, why not Indiana?
Kyle Stackpole
Wednesday, August 8, 2012
Little League Recap
The day produced four semifinal games, two from the Great Lakes and two from the Southeast. Here's a recap from today's action.
Great Lakes Region Semifinals
Warren County Southern (Kentucky) 4, Streator (Illinois) 3
With both teams coming in with a 2-2 record, it seemed to be anyone's contest. After surging out to a 4-1 lead, Kentucky was able to hold off an Illinois rally in the fifth and take the win 4-3.
Illinois was off to a good start after scoring a run in the first, but Kentucky responded with three of their own in the bottom half. Each team scored in the fourth, making it a 4-2 game heading into the final two innings.
Illinois threatened in both the fifth and the sixth inning but pitchers Kirtley Lawrence and Matthew Mitchell eventually were able to close the window of opportunity and secure the win.
Lawrence was solid for Kentucky, only giving up 3 runs and striking out 9, keeping the Illinois batters off balance.
Adam Smiley did the damage for Warren County Southern, going 3-3 with 2 runs batted in. With the win, Kentucky is now one win away from going to the Little League World Series.
New Castle (Indiana) 2 , Eau Claire National (Wisconsin) 1
Wisconsin has never had a team reach Williamsport and after Wednesday, they will have to wait another year.
Eau Claire National, the number one seed, was defeated by New Castle 2-1 in a game that could have went either way. Although it may seem like an upset, Indiana easily defeated Wisconsin 8-0 on the second day of pool play, handing them their only loss of the tournament.
Cayden Smekens dominated Wisconsin's lineup, going 5 1/3 shutout innings and only allowing 1 hit while striking out 9. After a shaky first inning, Smekens was lights out.
For Indiana, Hunter McCubbins did all the damage with two hits and two runs batted in. With Cayden Smeken's gem, that was all the offense Indiana needed.
With the win, the championship of the Great Lakes region is set with Indiana taking on Kentucky with a chance to go to Williamsport.
Southeast Region
Goodlettsville Baseball (Tennessee) 9, Greenville Tar Heel (North Carolina) 3
After a strong first inning from Tennessee in which they scored 4 runs, they never looked back and will play in the Southeast Regional title game.
The key to the Tennessee hitting was balance. Six players accounted for the seven hits, making this lineup a difficult on going foward.
As for North Carolina, Kenneth Simmons provided the power with a 2 run home run in the top of the fourth. Other than that, North Carolina's offense was only able to muster up 3 hits against the three pitchers that went for Tennessee.
After going 2-1 in pool play, Tennessee is now only one win away from a moment they have always dreamed of.
Warner Robins American West (Georgia) 5, Great Falls (Virginia) 1
And the team Tennessee will be playing in the finals is...
Warner Robins, Georgia.
If anyone has watched the past couple of years of this regional tournament, they know the team from Warner Robbins is a force to be reckoned with. It seems as though their team is always on the cusp of Williamsport and in most cases, is the team representing this region.
Although they were playing an undefeated Virginia team, Georgia was not intimidated, defeating them 5-1.
Of the three pitchers from Georgia, none of them were overly dominant but were able to get the job done. This wasn't the case for Virginia starter Jason Volpicelli, who gave up three runs and 5 walks in 2 and 2/3 innings.
The key for Warner Robbins was the first three hitters. Tee Williams, Leyton Pinckney, and Kody Winner combined for 6 of the 8 hits and gave the middle of the order a chance to drive them in.
After pool play, many thought that this was the year Warner Robbins would fall short of the ultimate prize. Now they are one game away from returning to a place this town knows very well: Williamsport.
Great Lakes Region Semifinals
Warren County Southern (Kentucky) 4, Streator (Illinois) 3
With both teams coming in with a 2-2 record, it seemed to be anyone's contest. After surging out to a 4-1 lead, Kentucky was able to hold off an Illinois rally in the fifth and take the win 4-3.
Illinois was off to a good start after scoring a run in the first, but Kentucky responded with three of their own in the bottom half. Each team scored in the fourth, making it a 4-2 game heading into the final two innings.
Illinois threatened in both the fifth and the sixth inning but pitchers Kirtley Lawrence and Matthew Mitchell eventually were able to close the window of opportunity and secure the win.
Lawrence was solid for Kentucky, only giving up 3 runs and striking out 9, keeping the Illinois batters off balance.
Adam Smiley did the damage for Warren County Southern, going 3-3 with 2 runs batted in. With the win, Kentucky is now one win away from going to the Little League World Series.
New Castle (Indiana) 2 , Eau Claire National (Wisconsin) 1
Wisconsin has never had a team reach Williamsport and after Wednesday, they will have to wait another year.
Eau Claire National, the number one seed, was defeated by New Castle 2-1 in a game that could have went either way. Although it may seem like an upset, Indiana easily defeated Wisconsin 8-0 on the second day of pool play, handing them their only loss of the tournament.
Cayden Smekens dominated Wisconsin's lineup, going 5 1/3 shutout innings and only allowing 1 hit while striking out 9. After a shaky first inning, Smekens was lights out.
For Indiana, Hunter McCubbins did all the damage with two hits and two runs batted in. With Cayden Smeken's gem, that was all the offense Indiana needed.
With the win, the championship of the Great Lakes region is set with Indiana taking on Kentucky with a chance to go to Williamsport.
Southeast Region
Goodlettsville Baseball (Tennessee) 9, Greenville Tar Heel (North Carolina) 3
After a strong first inning from Tennessee in which they scored 4 runs, they never looked back and will play in the Southeast Regional title game.
The key to the Tennessee hitting was balance. Six players accounted for the seven hits, making this lineup a difficult on going foward.
As for North Carolina, Kenneth Simmons provided the power with a 2 run home run in the top of the fourth. Other than that, North Carolina's offense was only able to muster up 3 hits against the three pitchers that went for Tennessee.
After going 2-1 in pool play, Tennessee is now only one win away from a moment they have always dreamed of.
Warner Robins American West (Georgia) 5, Great Falls (Virginia) 1
And the team Tennessee will be playing in the finals is...
Warner Robins, Georgia.
If anyone has watched the past couple of years of this regional tournament, they know the team from Warner Robbins is a force to be reckoned with. It seems as though their team is always on the cusp of Williamsport and in most cases, is the team representing this region.
Although they were playing an undefeated Virginia team, Georgia was not intimidated, defeating them 5-1.
Of the three pitchers from Georgia, none of them were overly dominant but were able to get the job done. This wasn't the case for Virginia starter Jason Volpicelli, who gave up three runs and 5 walks in 2 and 2/3 innings.
The key for Warner Robbins was the first three hitters. Tee Williams, Leyton Pinckney, and Kody Winner combined for 6 of the 8 hits and gave the middle of the order a chance to drive them in.
After pool play, many thought that this was the year Warner Robbins would fall short of the ultimate prize. Now they are one game away from returning to a place this town knows very well: Williamsport.
Tuesday, August 7, 2012
Little League World Series Time
Throughout the next couple of weeks, this blog will be dedicated to the most wonderful event of the summer.I will take you through the ups and downs of the Little League World Series up until the Championship in late August
Sunday, July 15, 2012
Florida Elite Captures Second Straight Adidas Invitational Title
The Adidas Invitational has been one of the best exposure camps during the July "live" period. After hundreds of games in the last 5 days, one was finally televised. That game was the 17U Championship between the Florida Elite and New Heights (NY). Florida Elite, with stars Kasey Hill and Chris Walker, was looking for their 2nd straight Adidas Invitational title. On a team without a star, New Heights was looking to use their chemistry and hard work to pull the upset.
The fatigue proved true for both teams as only a total of 22 points were scored halfway through the first half.
New Heights played aggressive defense, frustrating Walker and Hill in the process.
Although turnover prone in the first 10 minutes, Kasey Hill found his rhythm towards the end of the half, showing why he is in the top 20 of the 2013 class. Chris Walker did his damage on the defensive end, blocking 6 shots in the first half and grabbing 7 rebounds.
New Heights wasn't flashy, but played solid defense and made perimeters shots to stay close to a Florida Elite team who could explode at any time. In fact, if Demarcus Croaker hadn't scored the final 10 points of the half for Florida Elite, New Heights would actually be ahead. Instead, at the half, it was Florida Elite 33, New Heights 27.
New Heights' Jordan Washington scored 8 points to open the second half, giving them a 35-33 lead. It was then that Kasey Hill started to take over. With 10 minutes remaining, Hill led his team to a 5 point lead at 47-42. Florida Elite never looked back, extending their lead throughout the half. New Heights was able to cut it to two with two minutes to go, but key free throws by Hill and Walker put the game out of reach.
In the end, Florida Elite held off New Heights 76-68 and captured its second straight Adidas Invitational title. These venues are mostly about players gaining exposure by college coaches, but it sure doesn't hurt to win it in the process.
Kasey Hill
6'0" 170 lbs
College: Florida
After scoring nine points but committing nine turnovers in the first half, the Florida commit just didn't look himself. The second half was a different story. Hill started scoring in a variety of ways, whether it was driving to the basket or hitting the spot up three. He also looked to get his teammates involved, something all great point guards should be able to do. He ended up finishing the game with 27 points, earning player of the game honors. Billy Donavan and his staff have to be happy in what they saw in Hill during this tournament.
Chris Walker
6' 10" 195 lbs
College: Undecided
Although he wasn't much of a factor on the offensive end, Walker showed on the defensive end why he is a top 10 recruit in the 2013 class. In the first half alone, Walker had six blocks and pulled down seven rebounds. He could definitely add some strength, but the basketball skills are there for him to make an impact on the D1 level. He currently has offers from Baylor, UCONN, Florida, Florida State, Kansas, and Ohio State.
Demarcus Croaker
6'2" 170 lbs 21
College: Undecided
Croaker is often forgotton on Florida Elite because of guys like Kasey Hill and Chris Walker. On Sunday, Croaker showed that coaches should be making trips to see him play. He was the x-factor for the Florida Elite by draining threes and blowing by his man. Croaker scored 21 points for Florida Elite, helping them win this tournament for the second straight year. He currently has been offered by Central Michigan, Florida State, Miami (FL), Murray State, South Carolina, UCF, Virginia Tech, and Wichita State.
The fatigue proved true for both teams as only a total of 22 points were scored halfway through the first half.
New Heights played aggressive defense, frustrating Walker and Hill in the process.
Although turnover prone in the first 10 minutes, Kasey Hill found his rhythm towards the end of the half, showing why he is in the top 20 of the 2013 class. Chris Walker did his damage on the defensive end, blocking 6 shots in the first half and grabbing 7 rebounds.
New Heights wasn't flashy, but played solid defense and made perimeters shots to stay close to a Florida Elite team who could explode at any time. In fact, if Demarcus Croaker hadn't scored the final 10 points of the half for Florida Elite, New Heights would actually be ahead. Instead, at the half, it was Florida Elite 33, New Heights 27.
New Heights' Jordan Washington scored 8 points to open the second half, giving them a 35-33 lead. It was then that Kasey Hill started to take over. With 10 minutes remaining, Hill led his team to a 5 point lead at 47-42. Florida Elite never looked back, extending their lead throughout the half. New Heights was able to cut it to two with two minutes to go, but key free throws by Hill and Walker put the game out of reach.
In the end, Florida Elite held off New Heights 76-68 and captured its second straight Adidas Invitational title. These venues are mostly about players gaining exposure by college coaches, but it sure doesn't hurt to win it in the process.
Kasey Hill
6'0" 170 lbs
College: Florida
After scoring nine points but committing nine turnovers in the first half, the Florida commit just didn't look himself. The second half was a different story. Hill started scoring in a variety of ways, whether it was driving to the basket or hitting the spot up three. He also looked to get his teammates involved, something all great point guards should be able to do. He ended up finishing the game with 27 points, earning player of the game honors. Billy Donavan and his staff have to be happy in what they saw in Hill during this tournament.
Chris Walker
6' 10" 195 lbs
College: Undecided
Although he wasn't much of a factor on the offensive end, Walker showed on the defensive end why he is a top 10 recruit in the 2013 class. In the first half alone, Walker had six blocks and pulled down seven rebounds. He could definitely add some strength, but the basketball skills are there for him to make an impact on the D1 level. He currently has offers from Baylor, UCONN, Florida, Florida State, Kansas, and Ohio State.
Demarcus Croaker
6'2" 170 lbs 21
College: Undecided
Croaker is often forgotton on Florida Elite because of guys like Kasey Hill and Chris Walker. On Sunday, Croaker showed that coaches should be making trips to see him play. He was the x-factor for the Florida Elite by draining threes and blowing by his man. Croaker scored 21 points for Florida Elite, helping them win this tournament for the second straight year. He currently has been offered by Central Michigan, Florida State, Miami (FL), Murray State, South Carolina, UCF, Virginia Tech, and Wichita State.
Wednesday, July 4, 2012
7-4-12: Bottom Half of Wimbledon Produces High-Powered Matches
Kyle Stackpole
Wimbledon Quarters
When the bracket was first released for Wimbledon, many believed that Rafael Nadal would be coming out of the bottom half with little competition, searching for his third title at the All England Tennis club.
After Nadal was shockingly defeated in 5 sets in only the second round, it was time for a new competitor to step up and reach a major final. The candidates included: 4th seed Andy Murray, 5th seed Wilfred Tsonga, 7th seeded David Ferrer, and 27th Phillip Kohlschreiber.
Each individual had their only story coming into the tournament. Murray was looking to become the first British man to win at Wimbledon in 76 years. Ferrer had only been broken three times coming into the match against Murray. Tsonga was looking to reach the next level and reach the semifinals at Wimbledon in consecutive years. Kohlschreiber, the dark horse left in the field, had not dropped a set since his 5 set match with Tommy Haas in the first round.
With all of these players so evenly matched, both matches were primed to be good ones and failed to disappoint.
Murray One Step Closer to Wimbledon Crown
On Centre Court, Andy Murray was looking to take another step towards winning this major and ending the drought. However, when Murray was broken early in the first set, it looked as though he would start the match in a hole. Murray showed toughness later in the set, breaking back to tie the game at 5. The set would go into a tiebreak, with both players showing how important it was to win the opening set. In the end, Ferrer took the tiebreak 7-5, the set 7-6, and one step closer to ending Murray's chances at glory.
Another set, another tiebreak. Ferrer held a great chance to go up two sets to love after breaking Murray late in the second set to take a 5-4 lead. Andy Murray found something deep inside and was able to break back, ultimately sending the set into yet another tiebreak. After Ferrer took the first three points of the tiebreak, Murray fought back to tie it up. After an ace by Murray and an unforced error by Ferrer, the home-country kid took the tiebreak 8-6 and tied the match at 1 set a piece.
Just when it seemed that this match would go into its third tiebreak, Murray took advantage of his lone opportunity to break Ferrer and take a 5-4 lead in the third set. He then closed the set without dropping a point in the last game.
It is was do or die for Ferrer in the fourth and he sure did play like it. After holding serve for the first three games, Ferrer finally had his opportunity, as he had two break points to put him up 5-3. Murray saved both points and ended up winning the game, tying the set at 4. To the surprise of no one, the 4th set went into a tie break. The tiebreak was 6-4 when Murray hit an ace down the middle of the court to keep the hopes of himself, as well as his fans, alive.
The key to this match was the little things. Murray was able to execute in the tiebreaks when Ferrer struggled to hit winners at times. Murray's ability to place the ball when it mattered most is why he will face Tsonga in the semifinals on Friday.
Murray wins the match: 6-7 (7-5), 7-6 (8-6), 6-4, 7-6 (7-4)
Tsonga Holds off Kohlschreiber, advances to Second Straight Wimbledon Semifinal
On Court 1, Phillip Kohlschreiber was looking to reach his first semifinal in 33 major appearances. His opponent was the high powered Wilfred Tsonga, looking to take his game to the next level and win a major tournament. The first set was standard with both players holding serve with few break chances. The set went to a tiebreak, where Tsonga took a 6-1 lead. Kohlschreiber was one point from tying when Tsonga finished out the set, winning the first 7-6.
Tsonga came out flat during the second, giving the German a chance at an early break. Kohlschreiber was up 4-2 when Tsonga finally found his touch, breaking his opponent's serve and tying the set at 4. A lapse in judgement gave Kohlschreiber another break and the second set, which he took 6-4.
Although Tsonga was considered the favorite, Kohlschreiber showed no signs of backing down. He continued to hold serve against the Frenchmen, but Tsonga continued to hold back, causing the second tiebreak of the match. Unlike in the first tiebreak, both players were exchanging points and staying on serve. After being tied at 2, Tsonga took 5 out of the next 6 points to take the tiebreaker 7-3 and being one set away from a semifinal appearance.
Unfortunately for Kohlschreiber, it seemed as though he lost all confidence after losing a third set tiebreak. After being broken early in the fourth set, the match belonged to Tsonga. He easily took the fourth set 6-2 and secured his spot in the semifinals.
The key to this match was Tsonga's ability to embrace the pressure. He knew coming in that Kohlschreiber would have nothing to lose and would play at his highest level. The Frenchman was able to overcome that and move to his fourth major semifinal.
Tsonga takes the match: 7-6 (7-5), 4-6, 7-6 (7-3), 6-2
Murray vs. Tsonga
When Nadal was knocked out earlier in the tournament, many thought these two men would be the ones to carry the load. Each took care of business in their quarterfinal match, setting up a match between finesse and power.
Tsonga covers the court extremely well and is in the best shape of anyone left in the field. If he can move Murray around to where he is uncomfortable, he should have the advantage.
On the other hand, Murray will use placement and strategy to disrupt Tsonga's powerful game. In addition, almost everyone by Centre Court will be cheering for Murray, hoping he can make the final and finally break the 76 year curse.
If anything is for sure, the match will be both entertaining and played at a high level. Both players have something to prove and what better way to do it then on one of the biggest stages in the game of tennis.
Wimbledon Quarters
When the bracket was first released for Wimbledon, many believed that Rafael Nadal would be coming out of the bottom half with little competition, searching for his third title at the All England Tennis club.
After Nadal was shockingly defeated in 5 sets in only the second round, it was time for a new competitor to step up and reach a major final. The candidates included: 4th seed Andy Murray, 5th seed Wilfred Tsonga, 7th seeded David Ferrer, and 27th Phillip Kohlschreiber.
Each individual had their only story coming into the tournament. Murray was looking to become the first British man to win at Wimbledon in 76 years. Ferrer had only been broken three times coming into the match against Murray. Tsonga was looking to reach the next level and reach the semifinals at Wimbledon in consecutive years. Kohlschreiber, the dark horse left in the field, had not dropped a set since his 5 set match with Tommy Haas in the first round.
With all of these players so evenly matched, both matches were primed to be good ones and failed to disappoint.
Murray One Step Closer to Wimbledon Crown
On Centre Court, Andy Murray was looking to take another step towards winning this major and ending the drought. However, when Murray was broken early in the first set, it looked as though he would start the match in a hole. Murray showed toughness later in the set, breaking back to tie the game at 5. The set would go into a tiebreak, with both players showing how important it was to win the opening set. In the end, Ferrer took the tiebreak 7-5, the set 7-6, and one step closer to ending Murray's chances at glory.
Just when it seemed that this match would go into its third tiebreak, Murray took advantage of his lone opportunity to break Ferrer and take a 5-4 lead in the third set. He then closed the set without dropping a point in the last game.
It is was do or die for Ferrer in the fourth and he sure did play like it. After holding serve for the first three games, Ferrer finally had his opportunity, as he had two break points to put him up 5-3. Murray saved both points and ended up winning the game, tying the set at 4. To the surprise of no one, the 4th set went into a tie break. The tiebreak was 6-4 when Murray hit an ace down the middle of the court to keep the hopes of himself, as well as his fans, alive.
The key to this match was the little things. Murray was able to execute in the tiebreaks when Ferrer struggled to hit winners at times. Murray's ability to place the ball when it mattered most is why he will face Tsonga in the semifinals on Friday.
Murray wins the match: 6-7 (7-5), 7-6 (8-6), 6-4, 7-6 (7-4)
Tsonga Holds off Kohlschreiber, advances to Second Straight Wimbledon Semifinal
On Court 1, Phillip Kohlschreiber was looking to reach his first semifinal in 33 major appearances. His opponent was the high powered Wilfred Tsonga, looking to take his game to the next level and win a major tournament. The first set was standard with both players holding serve with few break chances. The set went to a tiebreak, where Tsonga took a 6-1 lead. Kohlschreiber was one point from tying when Tsonga finished out the set, winning the first 7-6.
Tsonga came out flat during the second, giving the German a chance at an early break. Kohlschreiber was up 4-2 when Tsonga finally found his touch, breaking his opponent's serve and tying the set at 4. A lapse in judgement gave Kohlschreiber another break and the second set, which he took 6-4.
Although Tsonga was considered the favorite, Kohlschreiber showed no signs of backing down. He continued to hold serve against the Frenchmen, but Tsonga continued to hold back, causing the second tiebreak of the match. Unlike in the first tiebreak, both players were exchanging points and staying on serve. After being tied at 2, Tsonga took 5 out of the next 6 points to take the tiebreaker 7-3 and being one set away from a semifinal appearance.Unfortunately for Kohlschreiber, it seemed as though he lost all confidence after losing a third set tiebreak. After being broken early in the fourth set, the match belonged to Tsonga. He easily took the fourth set 6-2 and secured his spot in the semifinals.
The key to this match was Tsonga's ability to embrace the pressure. He knew coming in that Kohlschreiber would have nothing to lose and would play at his highest level. The Frenchman was able to overcome that and move to his fourth major semifinal.
Tsonga takes the match: 7-6 (7-5), 4-6, 7-6 (7-3), 6-2
Murray vs. Tsonga
When Nadal was knocked out earlier in the tournament, many thought these two men would be the ones to carry the load. Each took care of business in their quarterfinal match, setting up a match between finesse and power.
Tsonga covers the court extremely well and is in the best shape of anyone left in the field. If he can move Murray around to where he is uncomfortable, he should have the advantage.
On the other hand, Murray will use placement and strategy to disrupt Tsonga's powerful game. In addition, almost everyone by Centre Court will be cheering for Murray, hoping he can make the final and finally break the 76 year curse.
If anything is for sure, the match will be both entertaining and played at a high level. Both players have something to prove and what better way to do it then on one of the biggest stages in the game of tennis.
Sunday, July 1, 2012
6-30-12 Murray looks to give Wimbledon First British Champion since 1936
In 1936, Fred Perry won the Men's Singles Championship at Wimbledon. At that time, it was common for an English man to hold the trophy, but not so much today. It has been 76 years since Perry's championship and Great Britain is looking for one man to end the drought.
Andy Murray, the 25 year old from London, England is the 4th seed in this years tournament and is looking to take advantage of the wide open field.
In the past, Murray has been successful in the tournament, but could never quite get over the hump. In his last three appearances at this major, Murray has been a semi-finalist in all three.
Luckily for Andy, the two men that defeated him over the past three years have already been knocked out of the tournament. Rafael Nadal was stunned in the Second Round by 100th ranked Lukas Rosol in 5 sets while Roddick was ousted by 7th ranked Spaniard David Ferrer in the third round.
Murray took another step towards greatness on Saturday when he defeated Marcos Baghdatis in 4 sets.
The first set was a breeze for Murray but the second set was a different story. Baghdatis broke Murray early in the set and cruised to tie the match, winning 6-3.
After the second set, the roof of Winbledon was closed and so was Baghadis's chance to make it into the Round of 16.
As the clock struck 11, Murray defeated Baghadis 7-5, 3-6, 7-5, 6-1 and will face Marin Cilic on Monday,
Now being the highest seed in his side of the bracket, anything less than a Wimbledon championship would be failure.
With Federer and Djokovic struggling in their early round matches, this might be the best chance Murray will have to win at Wimbledon and finally break the drought.
Andy Murray, the 25 year old from London, England is the 4th seed in this years tournament and is looking to take advantage of the wide open field.
In the past, Murray has been successful in the tournament, but could never quite get over the hump. In his last three appearances at this major, Murray has been a semi-finalist in all three.
Murray took another step towards greatness on Saturday when he defeated Marcos Baghdatis in 4 sets.
The first set was a breeze for Murray but the second set was a different story. Baghdatis broke Murray early in the set and cruised to tie the match, winning 6-3.
After the second set, the roof of Winbledon was closed and so was Baghadis's chance to make it into the Round of 16.
As the clock struck 11, Murray defeated Baghadis 7-5, 3-6, 7-5, 6-1 and will face Marin Cilic on Monday,
Now being the highest seed in his side of the bracket, anything less than a Wimbledon championship would be failure.
With Federer and Djokovic struggling in their early round matches, this might be the best chance Murray will have to win at Wimbledon and finally break the drought.
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