2012 UC Davis Men's Basketball Recruiting
By: Brett Rodriguez
aggiesportstalk.com@gmail.com
Published: February 12, 2012 -
UC Davis received three commitments during the early signing period in November 2011.
Darius Graham, a 5'10" guard from Sacramento High School, is averaging 10.6 points along with 3.6 assists per game. The Dragons are currently undefeated in Metro Conference play.
After signing freshman point guard Tyrell Corbin, Coach Jim Les has returned to the Bee Hive state and received a letter of intent from Tyler Ott. Ott, from St. George, Utah is a 6'5" guard/forward that can jump out of the gym. Ott's Desert Hills High School is ranked tenth in the state and first in the Utah 3A division.
Olivier-Paul Betu, a native of Montreal, Quebec was the last to sign during the early period in November. Betu currently plays for Worcester Academy, in Worcester, Massachusetts.
Below is a compilation of high school seniors who are currently being recruited by UC Davis men's basketball. The names and interest levels come from various recruiting websites.
The signing period begins Wednesday, April 11.
Cody McDavis 6'8" Power Forward
Pinnacle High School
Phoenix, AZ
Spotlight Video
McDavis, pictured above, is the anchor on a Pioneer squad that is 28-3 overall and 16-2 in league play. Pinnacle is the number two team in the state. He averages 13 points and 9 rebounds per game. Recently, McDavis was offered a scholarship by UC Davis.
Conor Clifford 6'11" Center
Ocean View High School
Huntington Beach, CA
Spotlight Video
Coast2coastrecruiting.net has reported that Clifford was offered a scholarship to attend UC Davis. The senior captain is averaging 14.9 points and 9.4 rebounds per game. Ocean View is 23-3 overall and 10-0 in league.
Garrett Galvin 6'4" Shooting Guard
Torey Pines HS
San Diego, CA
Highlight Video
Galvin, a shooting guard, is the second leading scorer on the team averaging 18.4 points per game.
Marvelle Harris 6'3" Guard
Eisenhower High School
Rialto, CA
Harris is averaging 24.7 points per game and shoots 86% from the free throw line for the Eagles. According to coast2coastrecruiting.net, Harris' first choice is Fresno State.
Jordan Broyles 6'4" Guard
Del Oro High School
Loomis, CA
Broyles scored a season high 19 points against Nevada Union (CA) and leads the Eagles balanced attack with 10.9 points per game. Del Oro is in first place in the Sierra Foothill League with a 7-1 league record.
Hunter Walker 6'5" Guard/Forward
Righetti High School
Santa Maria, CA
Highlight Video
Walker has been garnering interest from Central Coast schools UC Santa Barbara and Cal Poly, but coast2coastrecruiting.net has also said that the Aggies are showing interest.
Photo Credit: Rivals.com
aggiesportstalk.com@gmail.com
Published: February 12, 2012 -
UC Davis received three commitments during the early signing period in November 2011.
Darius Graham, a 5'10" guard from Sacramento High School, is averaging 10.6 points along with 3.6 assists per game. The Dragons are currently undefeated in Metro Conference play.
After signing freshman point guard Tyrell Corbin, Coach Jim Les has returned to the Bee Hive state and received a letter of intent from Tyler Ott. Ott, from St. George, Utah is a 6'5" guard/forward that can jump out of the gym. Ott's Desert Hills High School is ranked tenth in the state and first in the Utah 3A division.
Olivier-Paul Betu, a native of Montreal, Quebec was the last to sign during the early period in November. Betu currently plays for Worcester Academy, in Worcester, Massachusetts.
Below is a compilation of high school seniors who are currently being recruited by UC Davis men's basketball. The names and interest levels come from various recruiting websites.
The signing period begins Wednesday, April 11.
Cody McDavis 6'8" Power Forward
Pinnacle High School
Phoenix, AZ
Spotlight Video
McDavis, pictured above, is the anchor on a Pioneer squad that is 28-3 overall and 16-2 in league play. Pinnacle is the number two team in the state. He averages 13 points and 9 rebounds per game. Recently, McDavis was offered a scholarship by UC Davis.
Conor Clifford 6'11" Center
Ocean View High School
Huntington Beach, CA
Spotlight Video
Coast2coastrecruiting.net has reported that Clifford was offered a scholarship to attend UC Davis. The senior captain is averaging 14.9 points and 9.4 rebounds per game. Ocean View is 23-3 overall and 10-0 in league.
Garrett Galvin 6'4" Shooting Guard
Torey Pines HS
San Diego, CA
Highlight Video
Galvin, a shooting guard, is the second leading scorer on the team averaging 18.4 points per game.
Marvelle Harris 6'3" Guard
Eisenhower High School
Rialto, CA
Harris is averaging 24.7 points per game and shoots 86% from the free throw line for the Eagles. According to coast2coastrecruiting.net, Harris' first choice is Fresno State.
Jordan Broyles 6'4" Guard
Del Oro High School
Loomis, CA
Broyles scored a season high 19 points against Nevada Union (CA) and leads the Eagles balanced attack with 10.9 points per game. Del Oro is in first place in the Sierra Foothill League with a 7-1 league record.
Hunter Walker 6'5" Guard/Forward
Righetti High School
Santa Maria, CA
Highlight Video
Walker has been garnering interest from Central Coast schools UC Santa Barbara and Cal Poly, but coast2coastrecruiting.net has also said that the Aggies are showing interest.
Photo Credit: Rivals.com
The Long Road to Division I Success
By: Brett Rodriguez
aggiesportstalk.com@gmail.com
Published: February 9, 2012 - 12:10 AM
The UC Davis men’s basketball program is in its fifth season of Division I competition and now holds the distinction of being one of the worst in the country. How could a program that has historically had success at the Division II level, including a national championship in 1998 fall so hard, so fast?
Shortly after winning the 1998 Division II title against Kentucky Wesleyan, Bob Williams departed UC Davis for UC Santa Barbara. In his first year at UCSB, the Gauchos won the West Division, but lost in the Big West Conference tournament.
After Williams’ departure, Brian Fogel, an assistant to Williams took over the program. Under Fogel’s guidance, the basketball program remained competitive and reached the Division II West Regional Semis in 1999 and the West Regional Finals in 2000. In the five years that Fogel was head coach he compiled an 89-49 overall record, while going 70-40 in CCAA games.
Following Fogel’s resignation in 2003, UC Davis hired Gary Stewart, the coach that would usher the Aggies into the Division I era. Expectations were high and Stewart continued the success of previous seasons during his initial campaign. In Stewart’s first year the Aggies went 18-9, but were not eligible for post season play.
That is where the success stopped for UC Davis. Following the 2003-2004 season, the men’s basketball program has not posted a winning record. Last year, the Aggies failed to qualify for the Big West Conference tournament after finishing in last place and Gary Stewart coached his last game as the UC Davis head coach.
So what is plaguing the program? Were expectations too high for moving up to Division I? Was Gary Stewart the wrong choice to lead the Aggies? Possibly, but hind sight is 20-20.
The Division I experience is new for everyone, including students, faculty, athletic department staff, fans, and alums.
Rommel Marentez, recruited by UC Davis during the transition, was not deterred at the Aggies’ inability to participate in post season play. “I wanted to be somewhere I felt comfortable so my decision was based on the school, the environment at Davis as a community and the type of people that were involved in the basketball program, coaches and players alike,” said Marentez.
He believed one of the biggest problems that faced the team during the transition years was the size and athleticism they faced every night. Conversely, the team had nothing to lose.
“I think we would be considered the underdog in most situations, so in a sense we had nothing to lose but more so prove ourselves that we were capable to compete against great competition at a high level.”
Marentez has been playing professionally in Mexico and was last with Ostioneros de Guaymas.
For Berkeley, California native Dominic Calegari, getting a scholarship offer from UC Davis was a “ slam dunk.” Calegari believed that he needed a few years to develop into a Division I athlete, making the transition period a non-factor in his decision to become an Aggie.
Calegari believed that one of the biggest issues that faced the program was recruiting. “We were playing at the only college level we knew. It wasn't until we got some Division I transfers from high major programs that I would hear what the Division I level was really like,’” said Calegari. Calegari now plays for the Maine Red Claws of the NBA D-League.
After Gary Stewart’s departure, first year head coach Jim Les inherited a team that lost its top two scorers in Mark Payne and Joe Harden, as well as senior leader Todd Lowenthal. Early injuries have hampered Eddie Miller and Harrison DuPont, while a torn knee ligament has forced sophomore swingman Ryan Sypkens to take a medical redshirt this year.
The team is currently in an 18 game losing streak and face conference leader Long Beach State in a home game on Saturday night. But there is more to the team’s struggle that meets the eye.
Les is working to not only turn the Aggies into a winning program; he is trying to change the culture surrounding UC Davis men’s basketball. Les came from Bradley University, a program that has been to 8 NCAA tournaments, including a Sweet 16 appearance in 2006 with Les at the helm.
Coach Les believes that change must first occur from within the program. “The biggest goal is to play with a supreme effort,” he said. “We need to start a culture based on hard work.”
But the athletic department and university must also do their share to support the move to Division I. “Aggie athletics made the move to Division I schedule-wise,” Les said, “but it wasn’t an outright commitment to succeed at this level.”
With Hawaii joining the Big West for the 2012-2013 campaign and San Diego state entering a year later, coaches and athletic departments must re-evaluate how they operate. Coaches are working to make sure that they raise enough funds to compete on the recruiting trail. “I don’t want to say that athletics is a business, but it is,” stated Les.
Previously, the men’s basketball team was forced to recruit primarily in California, but a quick glance at this year’s roster reveals that several players are from out of state. The Aggies current recruiting class represents a shift away from recruiting only in California, with a one player from Utah and another from Canada.
“We are looking for a certain class of student-athlete, one that can compete in the classroom and on the court. Already we have certain (academic) requirements that are higher than other schools. Staying in California limits it further.” But Les believes California needs to be a focus to get good local players, they just need the flexibility to recruit nationally.
Coach Les’ style of coaching is a stark contrast to former head coach Gary Stewart’s system. Stewart is now the head coach at Division III Stevenson University in Maryland. Les preaches hard work and a defensive intensity not seen by fans in the Pavilion in quite some time.
Coaching a team that was recruited to play in a different system is not without challenges. Les said that the first year everyone is feeling each other out. He operates what he calls equal opportunity coaching where everyone is held accountable and each player has a role with certain expectations. Coach Les believes that the coaches who garner the greatest respect, not only from himself but from others, are those who were honest.
“At the end of the season, we will sit down and decide what is best for the future, we are continually recruiting in case we have extra scholarships.”
As a player for the Utah Jazz, Les went through a coaching change when Frank Layden became general manager and hired future Hall of Fame coach Jerry Sloan. He believes his greatest benefit as a coach is that he has been through every situation a player can imagine and that puts him in a great position to lead Aggie basketball.
Five years after UC Davis made the jump to Division I, the men’s basketball program is finding out what it takes to be successful at the highest level of competition. One aspect is clear; Jim Les and his staff are determined to build a winning program at UC Davis.
“Nothing is easy. We are making strides and moving forward.”
Photo Credit: US Presswire
aggiesportstalk.com@gmail.com
Published: February 9, 2012 - 12:10 AM
The UC Davis men’s basketball program is in its fifth season of Division I competition and now holds the distinction of being one of the worst in the country. How could a program that has historically had success at the Division II level, including a national championship in 1998 fall so hard, so fast?
Shortly after winning the 1998 Division II title against Kentucky Wesleyan, Bob Williams departed UC Davis for UC Santa Barbara. In his first year at UCSB, the Gauchos won the West Division, but lost in the Big West Conference tournament.
After Williams’ departure, Brian Fogel, an assistant to Williams took over the program. Under Fogel’s guidance, the basketball program remained competitive and reached the Division II West Regional Semis in 1999 and the West Regional Finals in 2000. In the five years that Fogel was head coach he compiled an 89-49 overall record, while going 70-40 in CCAA games.
Following Fogel’s resignation in 2003, UC Davis hired Gary Stewart, the coach that would usher the Aggies into the Division I era. Expectations were high and Stewart continued the success of previous seasons during his initial campaign. In Stewart’s first year the Aggies went 18-9, but were not eligible for post season play.
That is where the success stopped for UC Davis. Following the 2003-2004 season, the men’s basketball program has not posted a winning record. Last year, the Aggies failed to qualify for the Big West Conference tournament after finishing in last place and Gary Stewart coached his last game as the UC Davis head coach.
So what is plaguing the program? Were expectations too high for moving up to Division I? Was Gary Stewart the wrong choice to lead the Aggies? Possibly, but hind sight is 20-20.
The Division I experience is new for everyone, including students, faculty, athletic department staff, fans, and alums.
Rommel Marentez, recruited by UC Davis during the transition, was not deterred at the Aggies’ inability to participate in post season play. “I wanted to be somewhere I felt comfortable so my decision was based on the school, the environment at Davis as a community and the type of people that were involved in the basketball program, coaches and players alike,” said Marentez.
He believed one of the biggest problems that faced the team during the transition years was the size and athleticism they faced every night. Conversely, the team had nothing to lose.
“I think we would be considered the underdog in most situations, so in a sense we had nothing to lose but more so prove ourselves that we were capable to compete against great competition at a high level.”
Marentez has been playing professionally in Mexico and was last with Ostioneros de Guaymas.
For Berkeley, California native Dominic Calegari, getting a scholarship offer from UC Davis was a “ slam dunk.” Calegari believed that he needed a few years to develop into a Division I athlete, making the transition period a non-factor in his decision to become an Aggie.
Calegari believed that one of the biggest issues that faced the program was recruiting. “We were playing at the only college level we knew. It wasn't until we got some Division I transfers from high major programs that I would hear what the Division I level was really like,’” said Calegari. Calegari now plays for the Maine Red Claws of the NBA D-League.
After Gary Stewart’s departure, first year head coach Jim Les inherited a team that lost its top two scorers in Mark Payne and Joe Harden, as well as senior leader Todd Lowenthal. Early injuries have hampered Eddie Miller and Harrison DuPont, while a torn knee ligament has forced sophomore swingman Ryan Sypkens to take a medical redshirt this year.
The team is currently in an 18 game losing streak and face conference leader Long Beach State in a home game on Saturday night. But there is more to the team’s struggle that meets the eye.
Les is working to not only turn the Aggies into a winning program; he is trying to change the culture surrounding UC Davis men’s basketball. Les came from Bradley University, a program that has been to 8 NCAA tournaments, including a Sweet 16 appearance in 2006 with Les at the helm.
Coach Les believes that change must first occur from within the program. “The biggest goal is to play with a supreme effort,” he said. “We need to start a culture based on hard work.”
But the athletic department and university must also do their share to support the move to Division I. “Aggie athletics made the move to Division I schedule-wise,” Les said, “but it wasn’t an outright commitment to succeed at this level.”
With Hawaii joining the Big West for the 2012-2013 campaign and San Diego state entering a year later, coaches and athletic departments must re-evaluate how they operate. Coaches are working to make sure that they raise enough funds to compete on the recruiting trail. “I don’t want to say that athletics is a business, but it is,” stated Les.
Previously, the men’s basketball team was forced to recruit primarily in California, but a quick glance at this year’s roster reveals that several players are from out of state. The Aggies current recruiting class represents a shift away from recruiting only in California, with a one player from Utah and another from Canada.
“We are looking for a certain class of student-athlete, one that can compete in the classroom and on the court. Already we have certain (academic) requirements that are higher than other schools. Staying in California limits it further.” But Les believes California needs to be a focus to get good local players, they just need the flexibility to recruit nationally.
Coach Les’ style of coaching is a stark contrast to former head coach Gary Stewart’s system. Stewart is now the head coach at Division III Stevenson University in Maryland. Les preaches hard work and a defensive intensity not seen by fans in the Pavilion in quite some time.
Coaching a team that was recruited to play in a different system is not without challenges. Les said that the first year everyone is feeling each other out. He operates what he calls equal opportunity coaching where everyone is held accountable and each player has a role with certain expectations. Coach Les believes that the coaches who garner the greatest respect, not only from himself but from others, are those who were honest.
“At the end of the season, we will sit down and decide what is best for the future, we are continually recruiting in case we have extra scholarships.”
As a player for the Utah Jazz, Les went through a coaching change when Frank Layden became general manager and hired future Hall of Fame coach Jerry Sloan. He believes his greatest benefit as a coach is that he has been through every situation a player can imagine and that puts him in a great position to lead Aggie basketball.
Five years after UC Davis made the jump to Division I, the men’s basketball program is finding out what it takes to be successful at the highest level of competition. One aspect is clear; Jim Les and his staff are determined to build a winning program at UC Davis.
“Nothing is easy. We are making strides and moving forward.”
Photo Credit: US Presswire
Men's Basketball Preview: vs. UCSB and Cal Poly
-By: AggieSportsTalk.com Staff
aggiesportstalk.com@gmail.com
Published: January 26, 2012 - 7:18 AM
The Aggies’ annual tilt against the Central Coast teams has become one of the most difficult stretches of the season. Cal Poly is led by third year coach Joe Callero, who turned around a struggling program after Kevin Bromley was fired. Callero’s Mustangs finished in second place last year, but lost in the quarterfinals of the Big West Tournament. This year, the Mustangs have struggled in conference play, but are still within striking distance of first place Long Beach State.
Former UC Davis head coach Bob Williams has established the Gauchos are perennial Big West front runners. UC Santa Barbara has represented the Big West in the NCAA tournament the last two years. This year, UCSB was picked to finish second by members of the media. Senior guards Orlando Johnson and James Nunally were also selected as pre-season members of the All Conference Team.
The Gauchos have been on somewhat of a roller coaster ride. Currently in a three way tie for second place, UC Santa Barbara will come into the Pavilion hungry for a win. Last week, Long Beach state went to the Thunderdome and embarrassed the Gauchos, winning 71-48.
UC Santa Barbara 9-7 (4-2) vs. UC Davis – Thursday @ 7 pm
UC Santa Barbara’s Speed vs. UC Davis Tempo Management:
The one glaring weakness on this Aggie team is overall team speed. UC Davis must slow the tempo down and keep UCSB out of fast break opportunities and force them to play a half court game. Conversely, the Aggies must be able to handle the press that the Gauchos will bring. Nunally and Johnson will be playing tight against the Aggie backcourt and the young Aggie guards have to protect the ball. If the Gauchos are allowed to get out and run, it will be a long night for the Aggies.
The Aggies have also struggled to play a complete game. There have been many instances where the team has played well on the offensive end but struggled defensively. Against UCSB, there cannot be a let down on either end. The Gauchos have too much talent on both ends of the court.
The Aggies have to play a flawless game and be on the right side of a few favorable to calls to be close late in the game.
Cal Poly 12-8 (3-4) vs. UC Davis – Saturday @ 7 pm
Cal Poly Rounding vs. UC Davis Shooters
The Mustangs are coming off of their best offensive showing of the season, beating Northridge 100-54, but Cal Poly isn’t a team that wows you with their stats. They are a methodical team that will wear down the defense and get an open look. One area that the Mustangs excel in is their ability to rebound the basketball. Cal Poly averages 8 more rebounds per game than their opponents. UC Davis has several streaky shooters on the team, including Josh Ritchart, Tyler Les and Eddie Miller. If the Aggies can get second chance opportunities, they could put themselves in a position to win.
One thing is for certain, the Aggies have to play flawless basketball to break out of their losing streak and get their first conference win of the season.
aggiesportstalk.com@gmail.com
Published: January 26, 2012 - 7:18 AM
The Aggies’ annual tilt against the Central Coast teams has become one of the most difficult stretches of the season. Cal Poly is led by third year coach Joe Callero, who turned around a struggling program after Kevin Bromley was fired. Callero’s Mustangs finished in second place last year, but lost in the quarterfinals of the Big West Tournament. This year, the Mustangs have struggled in conference play, but are still within striking distance of first place Long Beach State.
Former UC Davis head coach Bob Williams has established the Gauchos are perennial Big West front runners. UC Santa Barbara has represented the Big West in the NCAA tournament the last two years. This year, UCSB was picked to finish second by members of the media. Senior guards Orlando Johnson and James Nunally were also selected as pre-season members of the All Conference Team.
The Gauchos have been on somewhat of a roller coaster ride. Currently in a three way tie for second place, UC Santa Barbara will come into the Pavilion hungry for a win. Last week, Long Beach state went to the Thunderdome and embarrassed the Gauchos, winning 71-48.
UC Santa Barbara 9-7 (4-2) vs. UC Davis – Thursday @ 7 pm
UC Santa Barbara’s Speed vs. UC Davis Tempo Management:
The one glaring weakness on this Aggie team is overall team speed. UC Davis must slow the tempo down and keep UCSB out of fast break opportunities and force them to play a half court game. Conversely, the Aggies must be able to handle the press that the Gauchos will bring. Nunally and Johnson will be playing tight against the Aggie backcourt and the young Aggie guards have to protect the ball. If the Gauchos are allowed to get out and run, it will be a long night for the Aggies.
The Aggies have also struggled to play a complete game. There have been many instances where the team has played well on the offensive end but struggled defensively. Against UCSB, there cannot be a let down on either end. The Gauchos have too much talent on both ends of the court.
The Aggies have to play a flawless game and be on the right side of a few favorable to calls to be close late in the game.
Cal Poly 12-8 (3-4) vs. UC Davis – Saturday @ 7 pm
Cal Poly Rounding vs. UC Davis Shooters
The Mustangs are coming off of their best offensive showing of the season, beating Northridge 100-54, but Cal Poly isn’t a team that wows you with their stats. They are a methodical team that will wear down the defense and get an open look. One area that the Mustangs excel in is their ability to rebound the basketball. Cal Poly averages 8 more rebounds per game than their opponents. UC Davis has several streaky shooters on the team, including Josh Ritchart, Tyler Les and Eddie Miller. If the Aggies can get second chance opportunities, they could put themselves in a position to win.
One thing is for certain, the Aggies have to play flawless basketball to break out of their losing streak and get their first conference win of the season.
Women's Basketball Preview: @ UCSB and Cal Poly
-By: AggieSportsTalk.com Staff
aggiesportstalk.com@gmail.com
Published: January 25, 2012 - 9:47 PM
UC Davis enters this week on their longest winning streak since the beginning of the year, having swept the three games on their most recent homestand. Their defense is playing the best it has all season, and shots that were not falling prior to a few weeks ago are now starting to find the bottom of the net. Thus, it is not surprising to hear people talking about how this team is playing some of their best basketball all year. However, their next challenge will be to translate that play to the road as they will not return to Hamilton Court until February 8th.
UC Santa Barbara and Cal Poly are the first two tests, before a trip to Cal State Fullerton next Wednesday. One has to go back to 2008 to find the last time UC Davis has won at all three of these facilities in one season.
But, let’s not get ahead of ourselves, as the Gauchos and Mustangs are the two teams that must be focused on over the next 4 days.
It seems that every year when the Ags take their annual trip down to the Central Coast, there is always a little extra at stake. It is no different this season as all three teams are separated by just one game in the standings. With two wins this week the Ags will be no worse than tied for first place in the conference; exactly halfway through Big West play. Cal Poly and UC Santa Barbara, meanwhile, will each be looking for victories so that they can draw even with the Ags.
Key Matchups vs. UCSB (3-3 Big West, 8-9 overall)
Deliberate Gaucho offense vs. Aggie pressure defense:
In examining a few scores from UC Santa Barbara games this year, the low scoring outputs are striking. For example, they lost 46-34 to Long Beach State last week and in their second game of the conference beat Cal State Fullerton 39-37. By contrast, UC Davis defeated the 49ers 78-62 fell to the Titans 58-50. The large differential in scoring output is a fairly good indicator that the Gauchos like to play the game at a slower pace. On the other hand, while the Ags certainly don’t like to play up and down basketball, their defensive intensity does translate into the game moving more quickly. To control the game, the Ags must continue their strong defensive pressure and not allow Santa Barbara to work the ball around the floor at their leisure.
UCD Depth vs. UCSB Starting Five:
As has been the case the past two years, the Aggies have one of the best benches in the entire conference. It was bolstered recently by the return of Lauren Juric who was slotted into the starting five by head coach Jennifer Gross. This move allows Blair Shinoda to be used as a super sub, giving UC Davis a player off the bench who started every single nonconference game. This is in addition to players like Brianna Salvatore, Sydnee Fipps, and Cortney French that were already getting regular minutes as well. The Gauchos on the other hand do not have this luxury, with only 6 total players having experience in every game this year. If the UCD bench keeps producing like they have, and the Gauchos legs get tired, this matchup strongly favors the Ags.
Key Matchups vs. Cal Poly (3-3 Big West, 6-12 overall)
Kristina Santiago vs. UC Davis team:
Last year, Cal Poly surprised many people because they made it to the Big West tournament championship game despite losing reigning Big West Player of the Year Kristina Santiago for the entire season. As Aggie fans will no doubt enjoyably remember, UC Davis won that matchup to clinch their first ever trip to the NCAA tournament. This year though, Santiago is back and averaging a double-double per game: 23.6 points and 10.2 rebounds. Yet, Cal Poly has lost two-thirds of their games. In essence opponents have allowed Santiago to have success against them, but have beaten the Mustangs with more team oriented basketball. Time and again, Jennifer Gross has stated that the strength of this year’s Aggie squad is the team itself. For the Ags to win on Saturday, that idea must prevail.
First Half vs. Second Half:
Statistically, both the Mustangs and the Ags can be characterized as “second half teams”. However, on the year, UC Davis still outscores opponents in the first half and Cal Poly does not. Therefore, the Ags should feel a sense of opportunity right from the tip. If they are able to seize it, by forcing early turnovers and getting early baskets they will have a lead and set the tone for the game. Then, in the second half, if they simply play to their season averages they should stand a strong chance of winning. Although games are not won and lost in the first half, with the tendencies of these two teams, those twenty minutes before halftime could be the difference.
aggiesportstalk.com@gmail.com
Published: January 25, 2012 - 9:47 PM
UC Davis enters this week on their longest winning streak since the beginning of the year, having swept the three games on their most recent homestand. Their defense is playing the best it has all season, and shots that were not falling prior to a few weeks ago are now starting to find the bottom of the net. Thus, it is not surprising to hear people talking about how this team is playing some of their best basketball all year. However, their next challenge will be to translate that play to the road as they will not return to Hamilton Court until February 8th.
UC Santa Barbara and Cal Poly are the first two tests, before a trip to Cal State Fullerton next Wednesday. One has to go back to 2008 to find the last time UC Davis has won at all three of these facilities in one season.
But, let’s not get ahead of ourselves, as the Gauchos and Mustangs are the two teams that must be focused on over the next 4 days.
It seems that every year when the Ags take their annual trip down to the Central Coast, there is always a little extra at stake. It is no different this season as all three teams are separated by just one game in the standings. With two wins this week the Ags will be no worse than tied for first place in the conference; exactly halfway through Big West play. Cal Poly and UC Santa Barbara, meanwhile, will each be looking for victories so that they can draw even with the Ags.
Key Matchups vs. UCSB (3-3 Big West, 8-9 overall)
Deliberate Gaucho offense vs. Aggie pressure defense:
In examining a few scores from UC Santa Barbara games this year, the low scoring outputs are striking. For example, they lost 46-34 to Long Beach State last week and in their second game of the conference beat Cal State Fullerton 39-37. By contrast, UC Davis defeated the 49ers 78-62 fell to the Titans 58-50. The large differential in scoring output is a fairly good indicator that the Gauchos like to play the game at a slower pace. On the other hand, while the Ags certainly don’t like to play up and down basketball, their defensive intensity does translate into the game moving more quickly. To control the game, the Ags must continue their strong defensive pressure and not allow Santa Barbara to work the ball around the floor at their leisure.
UCD Depth vs. UCSB Starting Five:
As has been the case the past two years, the Aggies have one of the best benches in the entire conference. It was bolstered recently by the return of Lauren Juric who was slotted into the starting five by head coach Jennifer Gross. This move allows Blair Shinoda to be used as a super sub, giving UC Davis a player off the bench who started every single nonconference game. This is in addition to players like Brianna Salvatore, Sydnee Fipps, and Cortney French that were already getting regular minutes as well. The Gauchos on the other hand do not have this luxury, with only 6 total players having experience in every game this year. If the UCD bench keeps producing like they have, and the Gauchos legs get tired, this matchup strongly favors the Ags.
Key Matchups vs. Cal Poly (3-3 Big West, 6-12 overall)
Kristina Santiago vs. UC Davis team:
Last year, Cal Poly surprised many people because they made it to the Big West tournament championship game despite losing reigning Big West Player of the Year Kristina Santiago for the entire season. As Aggie fans will no doubt enjoyably remember, UC Davis won that matchup to clinch their first ever trip to the NCAA tournament. This year though, Santiago is back and averaging a double-double per game: 23.6 points and 10.2 rebounds. Yet, Cal Poly has lost two-thirds of their games. In essence opponents have allowed Santiago to have success against them, but have beaten the Mustangs with more team oriented basketball. Time and again, Jennifer Gross has stated that the strength of this year’s Aggie squad is the team itself. For the Ags to win on Saturday, that idea must prevail.
First Half vs. Second Half:
Statistically, both the Mustangs and the Ags can be characterized as “second half teams”. However, on the year, UC Davis still outscores opponents in the first half and Cal Poly does not. Therefore, the Ags should feel a sense of opportunity right from the tip. If they are able to seize it, by forcing early turnovers and getting early baskets they will have a lead and set the tone for the game. Then, in the second half, if they simply play to their season averages they should stand a strong chance of winning. Although games are not won and lost in the first half, with the tendencies of these two teams, those twenty minutes before halftime could be the difference.
Women's Preview: Pacific @ UC Davis
-By: AggieSportsTalk.com Staff
aggiesportstalk.com@gmail.com
Published: January 20, 2012 - 6:46 PM
With only one game this week, the Ags have had ample time to prepare for their Northern
California rival Pacific to invade the Pavilion. After winning games against Northridge and Long Beach, UC Davis is looking to go undefeated on their three game homestand. However, the Tigers will present a strong test.
For starters, despite the fact that both teams have a 3-2 conference record, their season winning percentages place them as the top two teams in the Big West. Not only that, but history indicates that these two programs love to compete against one another, splitting their games in each of the past 4 seasons. For the Aggies, there should also be a little extra fire in their bellies. The last time the Tigers played on Hamilton Court, they rallied for a victory after trailing by 14 points in the second half.
Pacific press vs. UC Davis press break:
As has been the case in past years, UC Davis should be expecting full court pressure from the Tigers. Under Lynne Roberts, Pacific has developed a reputation for harassing opponents to the point that they get frustrated with not being able to move the ball up the floor, resulting in turnovers. For the Ags, they have had varying degrees of success with their press break.
For example, against Long Beach State, they were able to fairly easily and consistently bring the ball up the floor. However, against more on-ball full court pressure from Cal State Northridge they committed multiple turnovers that allowed the Matadors back in the game.
Against Pacific, it will be key for ball handlers Hana Asano, Hannah Stephens, Blair Shinoda, Brianna Salvatore and Samantha Meggison to settle the team. Minimizing turnovers and limiting Pacific's increased offensive possessions must be a focal point for the Ags in order to win this game.
Aggie defense vs. Pacific offense:
The Tigers offense is one of the highest scoring in the conference, averaging nearly 73 points per game. However, UC Davis’ defense has also been very solid and consistent this year, only allowing roughly 62 points per contest. So, it will be a classic offense versus defense matchup. Of course conventional wisdom says that defense should win out, but UC Davis must continue to put forth the same effort they have so far this season. If they can hold the Tigers to around 60 points, the Ags should have a good chance at moving to 4-2 in Big West play.
aggiesportstalk.com@gmail.com
Published: January 20, 2012 - 6:46 PM
With only one game this week, the Ags have had ample time to prepare for their Northern
California rival Pacific to invade the Pavilion. After winning games against Northridge and Long Beach, UC Davis is looking to go undefeated on their three game homestand. However, the Tigers will present a strong test.
For starters, despite the fact that both teams have a 3-2 conference record, their season winning percentages place them as the top two teams in the Big West. Not only that, but history indicates that these two programs love to compete against one another, splitting their games in each of the past 4 seasons. For the Aggies, there should also be a little extra fire in their bellies. The last time the Tigers played on Hamilton Court, they rallied for a victory after trailing by 14 points in the second half.
Pacific press vs. UC Davis press break:
As has been the case in past years, UC Davis should be expecting full court pressure from the Tigers. Under Lynne Roberts, Pacific has developed a reputation for harassing opponents to the point that they get frustrated with not being able to move the ball up the floor, resulting in turnovers. For the Ags, they have had varying degrees of success with their press break.
For example, against Long Beach State, they were able to fairly easily and consistently bring the ball up the floor. However, against more on-ball full court pressure from Cal State Northridge they committed multiple turnovers that allowed the Matadors back in the game.
Against Pacific, it will be key for ball handlers Hana Asano, Hannah Stephens, Blair Shinoda, Brianna Salvatore and Samantha Meggison to settle the team. Minimizing turnovers and limiting Pacific's increased offensive possessions must be a focal point for the Ags in order to win this game.
Aggie defense vs. Pacific offense:
The Tigers offense is one of the highest scoring in the conference, averaging nearly 73 points per game. However, UC Davis’ defense has also been very solid and consistent this year, only allowing roughly 62 points per contest. So, it will be a classic offense versus defense matchup. Of course conventional wisdom says that defense should win out, but UC Davis must continue to put forth the same effort they have so far this season. If they can hold the Tigers to around 60 points, the Ags should have a good chance at moving to 4-2 in Big West play.
Men's Preview: UC Davis @ Pacific
-By: AggieSportsTalk.com Staff
aggiesportstalk.com@gmail.com
Published: January 15, 2012 - 1:08 PM
UC Davis is coming off a tough road stretch against Long Beach State and Northridge. The Aggies played well against the Beach in the first half, but the 49ers used their speed to run away from the Ags in the second half to win by 18.
The second game was one that the Ags let slip out of their grasp. UC Davis led by 13 points in the first half and were up by 11 with 6:40 left in the game. Northridge then went on a 16-0 run to take the lead for good, sealing the Matadors win.
Coach Les was tough on his team in a post game Tweet, acknowledging that shooting better than 50% from the field should have been enough to win this game.
One thing is for sure about this coaching staff, there is no lack of intensity or energy and they expect their team to play to their best of their ability all game long.
UC Davis continues Big West Conference play against Northern California rival Pacific this Saturday at the Alex G. Spanos Center. UC Davis beat Pacific in 2010 for the first time in seven decades.
UC Davis @ Pacific – 7 pm Saturday, January 21
The Aggies are currently in last place (0-5, 1-15 overall), with Pacific at (1-4, 5-12 overall). It has been a rebuilding year for the Tigers after losing 4 players from last year’s team.
Pacific will pose a challenge for UC Davis in the paint. The Tigers aren’t as athletic as previous teams, but Bob Thomason always has his team ready to play, especially at home. Junior guard Lorenzo McCloud leads the Tigers in scoring at 10.6 points per game, while forward Ross Rivera is the hot hand behind the 3 point line, shooting 50% for the season.
Key Matchups to Watch
Post play will be the key to Saturday’s game. JT Adenrele, Alex Tiffin and Co. will have their hands full in the paint. Adenrele cannot get himself into foul trouble early in the game, forcing DuPont or Miller to take on a post role on defense.
Pacific is aggressive on defense and will be pressuring the backcourt in an attempt to push the motion offense away from the basket. One thing that the Ags have not done too often this year is back cut, forcing the defense to be honest and give the shooters some space.
UC Davis will have to play aggressively for a full 40 minutes to compete on Saturday if they want to win. UC Davis and Pacific have an opportunity to create one of the best rivalries in the Big West, but it will take a few wins by the Aggies to really create that rivalry feel. Until then, UC Davis will be in the shadow cast by the Tigers.
aggiesportstalk.com@gmail.com
Published: January 15, 2012 - 1:08 PM
UC Davis is coming off a tough road stretch against Long Beach State and Northridge. The Aggies played well against the Beach in the first half, but the 49ers used their speed to run away from the Ags in the second half to win by 18.
The second game was one that the Ags let slip out of their grasp. UC Davis led by 13 points in the first half and were up by 11 with 6:40 left in the game. Northridge then went on a 16-0 run to take the lead for good, sealing the Matadors win.
Coach Les was tough on his team in a post game Tweet, acknowledging that shooting better than 50% from the field should have been enough to win this game.
One thing is for sure about this coaching staff, there is no lack of intensity or energy and they expect their team to play to their best of their ability all game long.
UC Davis continues Big West Conference play against Northern California rival Pacific this Saturday at the Alex G. Spanos Center. UC Davis beat Pacific in 2010 for the first time in seven decades.
UC Davis @ Pacific – 7 pm Saturday, January 21
The Aggies are currently in last place (0-5, 1-15 overall), with Pacific at (1-4, 5-12 overall). It has been a rebuilding year for the Tigers after losing 4 players from last year’s team.
Pacific will pose a challenge for UC Davis in the paint. The Tigers aren’t as athletic as previous teams, but Bob Thomason always has his team ready to play, especially at home. Junior guard Lorenzo McCloud leads the Tigers in scoring at 10.6 points per game, while forward Ross Rivera is the hot hand behind the 3 point line, shooting 50% for the season.
Key Matchups to Watch
Post play will be the key to Saturday’s game. JT Adenrele, Alex Tiffin and Co. will have their hands full in the paint. Adenrele cannot get himself into foul trouble early in the game, forcing DuPont or Miller to take on a post role on defense.
Pacific is aggressive on defense and will be pressuring the backcourt in an attempt to push the motion offense away from the basket. One thing that the Ags have not done too often this year is back cut, forcing the defense to be honest and give the shooters some space.
UC Davis will have to play aggressively for a full 40 minutes to compete on Saturday if they want to win. UC Davis and Pacific have an opportunity to create one of the best rivalries in the Big West, but it will take a few wins by the Aggies to really create that rivalry feel. Until then, UC Davis will be in the shadow cast by the Tigers.
Riecks Reaches 1,000 Career Points in Win
By: Brett Rodriguez
aggiesportstalk.com@gmail.com
Published: January 15, 2012 - 1:08 PM
Senior Kasey Riecks joined an elite club of Aggie basketball players after scoring her 1,000th point in a 78-62 win over Cal State Northridge. A minute and a half into the second half, Riecks hit a three pointer that extended the Aggies lead to eight points. She finished the game with a team high 15 points.
Riecks is the 15th Aggie player to reach 1,000 points, one year after former teammate Paige Mintun finished her career with 1,382 points. She now sits at 1,006, 21 points behind Kendall Greene who finished her career in 1996.
With 11 conference games remaining, plus the Big West Conference tournament and any potential postseason games should the Aggies make it, Riecks could climb even higher on the all time scoring chart.
This year, she has averaged 10.6 points per game, including a 21 point performance against Denver.
With the win, the Ags move to 3-2 in Big West Conference play and 11-6 overall. The Aggies are in action next Saturday at 2 PM in a home contest against Pacific. Pregame coverage begins at 1:45 PM on KDVS 90.3 FM or streaming live on kdvs.org.
aggiesportstalk.com@gmail.com
Published: January 15, 2012 - 1:08 PM
Senior Kasey Riecks joined an elite club of Aggie basketball players after scoring her 1,000th point in a 78-62 win over Cal State Northridge. A minute and a half into the second half, Riecks hit a three pointer that extended the Aggies lead to eight points. She finished the game with a team high 15 points.
Riecks is the 15th Aggie player to reach 1,000 points, one year after former teammate Paige Mintun finished her career with 1,382 points. She now sits at 1,006, 21 points behind Kendall Greene who finished her career in 1996.
With 11 conference games remaining, plus the Big West Conference tournament and any potential postseason games should the Aggies make it, Riecks could climb even higher on the all time scoring chart.
This year, she has averaged 10.6 points per game, including a 21 point performance against Denver.
With the win, the Ags move to 3-2 in Big West Conference play and 11-6 overall. The Aggies are in action next Saturday at 2 PM in a home contest against Pacific. Pregame coverage begins at 1:45 PM on KDVS 90.3 FM or streaming live on kdvs.org.
Women's Basketball Preview
January 11, 2011
- AggieSportsTalk.com Staff
Welcome to the first UC Davis Women’s Basketball piece for Aggiesportstalk.com. Every week, before women’s basketball games, there will be game previews posted. Each preview will begin with a brief overview of the Ags recent games, and then get into their upcoming contests. So, without further adieu, let’s get into this week’s preview:
UC Davis enter their 4th contest of the Big West year with a record of 1-2 in conference and 9-6 overall. The Ags have had difficulty shooting the basketball as of late, and will need to correct that in order to get a couple of wins at home this week as they take on Cal State Northridge and Long Beach State.
In the Aggies first win of this season, a thrilling tight victory over the Washington Huskies, people got a glimpse of what this team is capable of: tenacious pressure defense and patient, yet effective, offense. Unfortunately, the consistent end-to-end play that was so key in that victory has recently escaped them. Their defense has remained fairly solid throughout the teams first 14 games, but the offense has not.
With that being the case, these next two games at Hamilton Court are pivotal not only for their record, but for their collective confidence as well. In the Ags two conference losses, they allowed good looks and opportunities at the basket to fall by the wayside. Conversely, in their lone conference win, a 70-53 romp at UC Riverside, the team had 10 players get on the score sheet.
That latter performance is something the Aggies will be looking to repeat here at home.
Cal State Northridge @ UC Davis – 7 pm Thursday, January 12
Anyone expecting the same Cal State Northridge team that has been a bottom feeder in the conference in recent years should know this: the Matadors are currently 3 and 0 in Big West play and sit in first place. Although the season is still in its infancy, it appears that 2nd year head coach, Jason Flowers, is doing a very solid job at turning around this program.
From a statistical perspective they get it done by spreading the ball around, with 7 players averaging more than 5 points per game. In addition, they grab more rebounds and turn the ball over less than their opponents. Thus, the Aggies are going to have to get the better of the turnover to rebound ratio if they are to win this game.
Key Matchups to Watch
Jasmine Erving vs. UCD defense- Erving is the leading rebounder and scorer for Cal State Northridge and so one can imagine that the Aggies will be putting a lot of focus on her. As a smaller team, the Ags have had varying degrees of success this year when dealing with larger players. They are at their best when players at the top of the Aggie buzz defense have gotten pressure on the ball, not allowing opposing guards to dump the ball into the post. In addition, Lauren Juric and Kelsey Beard are back from injury so that should help the Ags deal with Erving as well.
UC Davis’ Points off of Turnovers vs. Matadors 2nd chance points: This is the scoring ratio that results from the rebound-turnover margin. It is going to be very difficult for the Ags to grab more boards than Northridge, but they need to limit the Matadors on the offensive glass so that they don’t get easy, inside looks at the basket. Of course, one way for UC Davis to do this is to force turnovers: not even allowing a shot to be taken. Buckets they are able to generate off of those takeaways will be a major key Thursday night.
Long Beach State @ UC Davis – 2pm Saturday, January 14
Much like Northridge, Long Beach State is looking better than they have in years past. Despite losing standout freshman Brandi Henton to transfer, the 49ers have put together a nice start and sit at 2 and 1 in the Big West. Their lone loss came at the hands of Northridge.
This game is important for UC Davis not only for a win, but also to get some redemption. Last year, Long Beach handed the Ags a late season 1 point loss in Southern California that is likely one of the reasons UC Davis was not given a higher seed in the NCAA tournament. With so many returners from that Aggie squad, it should not be difficult for them to get going for this one.
Key Matchups to Watch
Tipesa Moorer vs. Samantha Meggison: Meggison and Moorer have respectively been the most consistent scorers for their teams. When Meggison is on, driving into the lane on offense and forcing turnovers on defense, the Ags do well. However, if she gets in foul trouble and has to come out for an extended period of time, Aggie fans should watch out. Meggison outplaying Moorer will be an important factor for the Ags chances on Saturday.
UCD Free Throws vs. 49er Free Throws: Long Beach State comes into this week shooting just 67% from the line. The Aggies are slightly better at 69%. In last year’s 1 point loss in Long Beach, the game came down to the 49ers’ Courtney Jacob being able to knock down a key free throw with the game tied. Looking at how these two teams matchup this year it would not be at all surprising to see a similar situation unfold again this year.
- AggieSportsTalk.com Staff
Welcome to the first UC Davis Women’s Basketball piece for Aggiesportstalk.com. Every week, before women’s basketball games, there will be game previews posted. Each preview will begin with a brief overview of the Ags recent games, and then get into their upcoming contests. So, without further adieu, let’s get into this week’s preview:
UC Davis enter their 4th contest of the Big West year with a record of 1-2 in conference and 9-6 overall. The Ags have had difficulty shooting the basketball as of late, and will need to correct that in order to get a couple of wins at home this week as they take on Cal State Northridge and Long Beach State.
In the Aggies first win of this season, a thrilling tight victory over the Washington Huskies, people got a glimpse of what this team is capable of: tenacious pressure defense and patient, yet effective, offense. Unfortunately, the consistent end-to-end play that was so key in that victory has recently escaped them. Their defense has remained fairly solid throughout the teams first 14 games, but the offense has not.
With that being the case, these next two games at Hamilton Court are pivotal not only for their record, but for their collective confidence as well. In the Ags two conference losses, they allowed good looks and opportunities at the basket to fall by the wayside. Conversely, in their lone conference win, a 70-53 romp at UC Riverside, the team had 10 players get on the score sheet.
That latter performance is something the Aggies will be looking to repeat here at home.
Cal State Northridge @ UC Davis – 7 pm Thursday, January 12
Anyone expecting the same Cal State Northridge team that has been a bottom feeder in the conference in recent years should know this: the Matadors are currently 3 and 0 in Big West play and sit in first place. Although the season is still in its infancy, it appears that 2nd year head coach, Jason Flowers, is doing a very solid job at turning around this program.
From a statistical perspective they get it done by spreading the ball around, with 7 players averaging more than 5 points per game. In addition, they grab more rebounds and turn the ball over less than their opponents. Thus, the Aggies are going to have to get the better of the turnover to rebound ratio if they are to win this game.
Key Matchups to Watch
Jasmine Erving vs. UCD defense- Erving is the leading rebounder and scorer for Cal State Northridge and so one can imagine that the Aggies will be putting a lot of focus on her. As a smaller team, the Ags have had varying degrees of success this year when dealing with larger players. They are at their best when players at the top of the Aggie buzz defense have gotten pressure on the ball, not allowing opposing guards to dump the ball into the post. In addition, Lauren Juric and Kelsey Beard are back from injury so that should help the Ags deal with Erving as well.
UC Davis’ Points off of Turnovers vs. Matadors 2nd chance points: This is the scoring ratio that results from the rebound-turnover margin. It is going to be very difficult for the Ags to grab more boards than Northridge, but they need to limit the Matadors on the offensive glass so that they don’t get easy, inside looks at the basket. Of course, one way for UC Davis to do this is to force turnovers: not even allowing a shot to be taken. Buckets they are able to generate off of those takeaways will be a major key Thursday night.
Long Beach State @ UC Davis – 2pm Saturday, January 14
Much like Northridge, Long Beach State is looking better than they have in years past. Despite losing standout freshman Brandi Henton to transfer, the 49ers have put together a nice start and sit at 2 and 1 in the Big West. Their lone loss came at the hands of Northridge.
This game is important for UC Davis not only for a win, but also to get some redemption. Last year, Long Beach handed the Ags a late season 1 point loss in Southern California that is likely one of the reasons UC Davis was not given a higher seed in the NCAA tournament. With so many returners from that Aggie squad, it should not be difficult for them to get going for this one.
Key Matchups to Watch
Tipesa Moorer vs. Samantha Meggison: Meggison and Moorer have respectively been the most consistent scorers for their teams. When Meggison is on, driving into the lane on offense and forcing turnovers on defense, the Ags do well. However, if she gets in foul trouble and has to come out for an extended period of time, Aggie fans should watch out. Meggison outplaying Moorer will be an important factor for the Ags chances on Saturday.
UCD Free Throws vs. 49er Free Throws: Long Beach State comes into this week shooting just 67% from the line. The Aggies are slightly better at 69%. In last year’s 1 point loss in Long Beach, the game came down to the 49ers’ Courtney Jacob being able to knock down a key free throw with the game tied. Looking at how these two teams matchup this year it would not be at all surprising to see a similar situation unfold again this year.
