The Rollins Tars faced a top 20 opponent for the third consecutive game on Friday and the result was a familiar one. This time it was a 90-70 loss at the hands of the 10th ranked Barry Buccaneers at the Sport and Health Center in Miami Shores. The third consecutive loss dropped Rollins to 7-6 overall and 1-3 in the SSC. With the victory Barry stayed atop the SSC at 9-1 overall and 5-1 in the SSC.
The Tars were led in scoring by Eric Castaneda who scored 14 points off the bench- Connor McKim added 13- while Sam Philpott and Joey Galvis each scored 10. Rollins shot 39 percent as a team in the game- they were 11-29 (38 percent) from the 3-point line. The Tars shot 68 percent (19-28) from the free throw line. They had 12 assists and 16 turnovers.
Barry was led by Sawyer Glick who drained seven 3-pointer's en route to his 27 points- Adrian Gonzalez added 21- while Elvar Fridriksson dished out a game high 10 assists. The Bucs shot 49 percent as a team- including 39 percent (14-36) from the 3-point line. At the free throw line they shot 67 percent (8-12.) Barry dominated the rebounding battle, crushing the Tars on the boards 42-28. They had 24 assists and 16 turnovers as a team.
Connor McKim buried a 3-pointer on the Tars first trip down the floor and five minutes into the game it was tied at eight. Glick got hot and would bury three consecutive 3-pointer's to give the Bucs the lead but the Tars would battle back with a 9-2 run of their own after a Castaneda 3-pointer to make it 22-20 midway thru the opening half. The Bucs would take control late in the first half and would open up a 17 point (51-34) halftime lead.
Barry would start the second half on a 9-0 run that would put this one out of reach for the Tars. Rollins would not get any closer than 20 the rest of the way.
Rollins will be back in action Wednesday when they head home to Winter Park to face Tampa. Tip time is set for 730 PM. You can catch all the action on the Geico Tars Sports Network at RollinsSports.com and locally on 91.5 FM WPRK Winter Park.
Other SSC Scores:
Lynn 102 Florida Tech 94
Tampa 80 Florida Southern 70
Embry- Riddle 89 Nova Southeastern 71
Palm Beach Atlantic 78 Saint Leo 77
SSC Standings:
Barry 5-1 (9-1)
Eckerd 3-1 (10-2)
Tampa 3-1 (10-3)
Florida Tech 3-3 (9-5)
Lynn 2-3 (7-4)
Florida Southern 2-3 (4-9)
Rollins 1-3 (7-6)
Saint Leo 1-3 (6-7)
Nova Southeastern 1-4 (4-8)
Saturday, December 31, 2016
Thursday, December 29, 2016
Rollins Continues Tough Stretch In Miami Friday.
The Rollins Tars will face a ranked opponent for the third consecutive game on Friday. This time they will travel to Barry to take on the #10 Barry Buccaneers at the Sport and Health Center. You can catch all the action on the Geico Tars Sports Network on 91.5 FM WPRK and worldwide on RollinsSports.com.
Rollins (7-5 1-2 SSC) is coming off a tough trip to Las Vegas. The Tars were a 85-80 loser in the opener to #8 Angelo State. In the second game of the South Point Holiday Classic Rollins got off to a slow start and was buried by the #19 Buffaloes of West Texas A@M 89-68.
Tars junior Sam Philpott has led the team in scoring five consecutive games and is leading the season box score at 17.3 points per contest- Jeff Merton puts up 15.3 points a night- and grabs 5.3 rebounds a contest. Joey Galvis rounds out the double digit scorers at 10.4 points per game. The Tampa Jesuit product also leads the SSC in steals with 30 on the year. Connor McKim leads the team in assists at 3.7 a game. Rollins is sixth in the SSC offensively scoring 84.8 points a game. Defensively the Tars are eighth in the league allowing 83.7 a game. The Tars are last in rebounding margin (-6.2) but are leading the SSC in steals at 9.5 a game.
Barry (8-1 4-1 SSC) is led by Adrian Gonzalez. He leads the SSC and is 16th in DII putting up 22.6 points a game. He has eclipsed the 30 point mark three times and is coming off a 37 point outburst in a win over Indianapolis last time out. He is fifth in the nation in field goal percentage, shooting at a 69 percent clip. Elvar Fredriksson comes in scoring 16.8 a game. He is third in the nation and leads the SSC with 74 assists on the season. Arie Williams (11.7 points a game-) and Sawyer Glick (11.6 per night) are also averaging double figures on the season. The high powered Bucs offense leads the SSC and is sixth in the nation scoring 96.2 points per game- they are fifth in the SSC on the defensive end giving up 82.6 a night. The Bucs have the nation's second best field goal percentage (54 percent) on the season.
Rollins leads the all time series 46-22. The last meeting was in the DII South Region when Barry eliminated the Tars 107-92. Sam Philpott led the Tars in that one with 20.
The line presented by JuanBernalSportsBooks.com:
Barry by 6.5
Other SSC Lines:
Florida Tech (Pick) @Lynn
Tampa +3.5@Florida Southern
Embry-Riddle (-2.5) @Nova Southeastern
Palm Beach Atlantic +2 @Saint Leo
SSC Standings:
Barry 4-1 (8-1)
Eckerd 3-1 (10-2)
Tampa 2-1 (9-3)
Florida Tech 3-2 (9-4)
Florida Southern 2-2 (4-8)
Rollins 1-2 (7-5)
Saint Leo 1-2 (6-6)
Lynn 1-3 (6-4)
Nova Southeastern 1-4 (4-7)
Rollins (7-5 1-2 SSC) is coming off a tough trip to Las Vegas. The Tars were a 85-80 loser in the opener to #8 Angelo State. In the second game of the South Point Holiday Classic Rollins got off to a slow start and was buried by the #19 Buffaloes of West Texas A@M 89-68.
Tars junior Sam Philpott has led the team in scoring five consecutive games and is leading the season box score at 17.3 points per contest- Jeff Merton puts up 15.3 points a night- and grabs 5.3 rebounds a contest. Joey Galvis rounds out the double digit scorers at 10.4 points per game. The Tampa Jesuit product also leads the SSC in steals with 30 on the year. Connor McKim leads the team in assists at 3.7 a game. Rollins is sixth in the SSC offensively scoring 84.8 points a game. Defensively the Tars are eighth in the league allowing 83.7 a game. The Tars are last in rebounding margin (-6.2) but are leading the SSC in steals at 9.5 a game.
Barry (8-1 4-1 SSC) is led by Adrian Gonzalez. He leads the SSC and is 16th in DII putting up 22.6 points a game. He has eclipsed the 30 point mark three times and is coming off a 37 point outburst in a win over Indianapolis last time out. He is fifth in the nation in field goal percentage, shooting at a 69 percent clip. Elvar Fredriksson comes in scoring 16.8 a game. He is third in the nation and leads the SSC with 74 assists on the season. Arie Williams (11.7 points a game-) and Sawyer Glick (11.6 per night) are also averaging double figures on the season. The high powered Bucs offense leads the SSC and is sixth in the nation scoring 96.2 points per game- they are fifth in the SSC on the defensive end giving up 82.6 a night. The Bucs have the nation's second best field goal percentage (54 percent) on the season.
Rollins leads the all time series 46-22. The last meeting was in the DII South Region when Barry eliminated the Tars 107-92. Sam Philpott led the Tars in that one with 20.
The line presented by JuanBernalSportsBooks.com:
Barry by 6.5
Other SSC Lines:
Florida Tech (Pick) @Lynn
Tampa +3.5@Florida Southern
Embry-Riddle (-2.5) @Nova Southeastern
Palm Beach Atlantic +2 @Saint Leo
SSC Standings:
Barry 4-1 (8-1)
Eckerd 3-1 (10-2)
Tampa 2-1 (9-3)
Florida Tech 3-2 (9-4)
Florida Southern 2-2 (4-8)
Rollins 1-2 (7-5)
Saint Leo 1-2 (6-6)
Lynn 1-3 (6-4)
Nova Southeastern 1-4 (4-7)
Monday, December 19, 2016
Empty Trip. Tars Fall to Buffs Monday.
The Rollins Tars knew coming into this year's South Point Holiday Classic in Las Vegas this may be the toughest draw they have ever had. After a 85-80 loss to #10 Angelo State on Sunday afternoon Rollins was pummeled 89-68 by West Texas A@M at the Doolittle Center Monday. Tom Klusman and the Rollins staff can only hope the Tars will be a better team after playing two consecutive ranked opponents in a 24 hour span.
West Texas A@M (14-1) has now rolled off 10 consecutive victories. The Buffaloes placed five players in double figures for the second consecutive day (they defeated Western Washington Sunday.) David Chavlovich scored 20 points and dished out a game high 11 assists to pace the Buffs- Joseph Prince knocked down four 3-pointer's en route to his 18 points- Drew Evans and Eric Golightly Jr. chipped in 11 points each- while Jordan Evans had 10. The Buffs shot 53 percent as a team and 50 percent (17-34) from the 3-point line. They also shot at a 71 percent clip (10-14) from the free throw line. The Buffaloes nearly doubled the Tars rebounding output 36-19. They had 26 assists and 23 turnovers.
Rollins (7-5) was paced once again by Sam Philpott with 17 points- Connor McKim was a perfect 8 of 8 at the free throw line on his way to 12 points- while Jeff Merton added 10. The Tars shot 48 percent as a team. Coming into the game in the top 25 in the country in 3-point shooting Rollins shot just 21 percent (3-14) from the 3-point line. They shot 78 percent (21-27) at the free throw line. Rollins had 13 assists and 18 turnovers.
The Buffaloes come out red-hot in the early going as they would drain their first four field goals (all 3-pointer's) and then Golightly would hit a jumper to make it 14-3 in the game's first four minutes. After being down 15 (20-5) Rollins would get a 3-pointer from Galvis and pair of McKim free throws to make it a 10 point deficit (20-10.) The Buffaloes would lead by as many as 23 in the opening half and take a 53-34 lead into the locker room.
The Tars would get off to a good start in the second half, as Philpott would score the first five points after a A@M basket put them up 21. Rollins would get to within 16 (55-39) with 18:52 to go. Tommy Gove would hit a pair of 3-pointer's to destroy any chance of a Rollins comeback. The Buffs would lead by as many as 29 (83-54) with 6:29 left. The Tars would get no closer than 21 the rest of the way.
The Tars will not play again until December 30th. The schedule will not get any easier as they will head to Miami Shores to take on Barry. Tip time that day is set for 4 PM. You can catch all the action on the Geico Tars Sports Network at RollinsSports.com and on 91.5 FM WPRK Winter Park.
West Texas A@M (14-1) has now rolled off 10 consecutive victories. The Buffaloes placed five players in double figures for the second consecutive day (they defeated Western Washington Sunday.) David Chavlovich scored 20 points and dished out a game high 11 assists to pace the Buffs- Joseph Prince knocked down four 3-pointer's en route to his 18 points- Drew Evans and Eric Golightly Jr. chipped in 11 points each- while Jordan Evans had 10. The Buffs shot 53 percent as a team and 50 percent (17-34) from the 3-point line. They also shot at a 71 percent clip (10-14) from the free throw line. The Buffaloes nearly doubled the Tars rebounding output 36-19. They had 26 assists and 23 turnovers.
Rollins (7-5) was paced once again by Sam Philpott with 17 points- Connor McKim was a perfect 8 of 8 at the free throw line on his way to 12 points- while Jeff Merton added 10. The Tars shot 48 percent as a team. Coming into the game in the top 25 in the country in 3-point shooting Rollins shot just 21 percent (3-14) from the 3-point line. They shot 78 percent (21-27) at the free throw line. Rollins had 13 assists and 18 turnovers.
The Buffaloes come out red-hot in the early going as they would drain their first four field goals (all 3-pointer's) and then Golightly would hit a jumper to make it 14-3 in the game's first four minutes. After being down 15 (20-5) Rollins would get a 3-pointer from Galvis and pair of McKim free throws to make it a 10 point deficit (20-10.) The Buffaloes would lead by as many as 23 in the opening half and take a 53-34 lead into the locker room.
The Tars would get off to a good start in the second half, as Philpott would score the first five points after a A@M basket put them up 21. Rollins would get to within 16 (55-39) with 18:52 to go. Tommy Gove would hit a pair of 3-pointer's to destroy any chance of a Rollins comeback. The Buffs would lead by as many as 29 (83-54) with 6:29 left. The Tars would get no closer than 21 the rest of the way.
The Tars will not play again until December 30th. The schedule will not get any easier as they will head to Miami Shores to take on Barry. Tip time that day is set for 4 PM. You can catch all the action on the Geico Tars Sports Network at RollinsSports.com and on 91.5 FM WPRK Winter Park.
Rollins- #8 West Texas A@M Play In Battle Of High Octane Offenses In Vegas.
The Rollins Tars (7-4) will play for a second consecutive day when they battle the Buffaloes of West Texas A@M at the Doolittle Center in Las Vegas, Nevada Monday.
Rollins is coming off a 85-80 loss to the Rams of Angelo State on Sunday afternoon. Sam Philpott came into the tournament as the Tars leading scorer at 16.3 points a game and scored a career high 27 in the loss to the Rams. Jeff Merton bounced back after a couple of tough games with a 24 point output on Sunday. Merton came into the weekend averaging 14.9 points a game. Joey Galvis scored 13 points and is the other Tar who was averaging double figures going into the weekend (10.5 points per game.) Galvis also leads the Sunshine State Conference in steals. The Tars have scored 100 points or more four times thus far this season. They came into the weekend 25th in the country in field goal percentage and 15th in Division II in 3-point percentage.
The Buffaloes of West Texas A@M (13-1) come into Monday's contest riding a eight game win streak. The last time out Sunday they put five players in double figures in a victory over Western Washington. David Chavlovich paced the Buffs with 19- Eric Golightly Jr. added 15- Jerrod Walton notched 14- Joseph Prince netted 11- and- Skyler O'Laughlin chipped in 10. They already have three wins this season over ranked opponents. They average nearly 90 points a game as a team.
The meeting will be the first ever between Rollins and West Texas A@M.
You can catch all the action on the Geico Tars Sports Network at RollinsSports.com and locally on 91.5 FM WPRK.
The line presented by JuanBernalSportsbooks.com:
West Texas A@M by 7.5
Rollins is coming off a 85-80 loss to the Rams of Angelo State on Sunday afternoon. Sam Philpott came into the tournament as the Tars leading scorer at 16.3 points a game and scored a career high 27 in the loss to the Rams. Jeff Merton bounced back after a couple of tough games with a 24 point output on Sunday. Merton came into the weekend averaging 14.9 points a game. Joey Galvis scored 13 points and is the other Tar who was averaging double figures going into the weekend (10.5 points per game.) Galvis also leads the Sunshine State Conference in steals. The Tars have scored 100 points or more four times thus far this season. They came into the weekend 25th in the country in field goal percentage and 15th in Division II in 3-point percentage.
The Buffaloes of West Texas A@M (13-1) come into Monday's contest riding a eight game win streak. The last time out Sunday they put five players in double figures in a victory over Western Washington. David Chavlovich paced the Buffs with 19- Eric Golightly Jr. added 15- Jerrod Walton notched 14- Joseph Prince netted 11- and- Skyler O'Laughlin chipped in 10. They already have three wins this season over ranked opponents. They average nearly 90 points a game as a team.
The meeting will be the first ever between Rollins and West Texas A@M.
You can catch all the action on the Geico Tars Sports Network at RollinsSports.com and locally on 91.5 FM WPRK.
The line presented by JuanBernalSportsbooks.com:
West Texas A@M by 7.5
Sunday, December 18, 2016
Tars Outlasted Sunday.
The Rollins Tars had a 11 point lead in the second half but could not hang on in a 85-80 loss to #10 Angelo State in the opener of the South Point Holiday Classic at South Point Arena in Las Vegas on Sunday. With the win Angelo State stayed perfect (7-0) on the season. Rollins dropped to 7-4 on the season in a losing effort.
Three Rams scored in double figures in the victory. Thomas Tshikaya paced the Rams with 19 points and 13 rebounds- Quay King tallied 17- while Prince Foster scored 14 points and dished out five assists. The Rams shot 46 percent on the afternoon. They were 9-24 (38 percent) from the 3-point line- while shooting 74 percent (26-35) at the free throw line. The Rams dominated on the glass, out rebounding the Tars 42-31. They had 14 assists and 21 turnovers.
Rollins was led by Sam Philpott who poured in a career high 27 points on the day- Jeff Merton also had a solid day scoring 24- Joey Galvis also scored in double figures with 13 in the game. The Tars shot 41 percent as a team in the loss. They went 10-26 (38 percent) from the 3-point line. At the free throw line they were 22-29 (76 percent.) They had 14 assists and 18 turnovers.
The game started with the Rams taking a early 10-2 lead. The Tars would quickly respond with a 10-0 run of their own to go up 12-10 after a pair of Merton free throws. The game would be knotted at 20 with 8:13 to go in the opening half. The Tars would go up by five (35-30) and would use a Philpott tip in at the buzzer to take a eight point (45-37) halftime lead.
The Tars would stretch the lead to 11 early in the second half but the Rams would fight back. ASU would cut the Rollins lead to one (56-55) at the 12:27 mark. The Tars would take a six point lead (61-55) as Merton would score the game's next five points. Once again the Rams would have a response though. This time a 15-2 burst by ASU would give them a 70-63 lead at the 6:35 mark. The Tars would get to within two (75-73) on a pair of Galvis 3-pointer's and a Merton bucket at the 3:15 mark. That would be as close as the Tars would get.
Rollins will be back in action Monday when they take on West Texas A@M. Tip time is set for 2 PM Eastern at the Doolittle Center. The Buffaloes were a winner over Western Washington Sunday. You can catch all the action on the Geico Tars Sports Network at 91.5 FM WPRK Winter Park and round the world at RollinsSports.com
Three Rams scored in double figures in the victory. Thomas Tshikaya paced the Rams with 19 points and 13 rebounds- Quay King tallied 17- while Prince Foster scored 14 points and dished out five assists. The Rams shot 46 percent on the afternoon. They were 9-24 (38 percent) from the 3-point line- while shooting 74 percent (26-35) at the free throw line. The Rams dominated on the glass, out rebounding the Tars 42-31. They had 14 assists and 21 turnovers.
Rollins was led by Sam Philpott who poured in a career high 27 points on the day- Jeff Merton also had a solid day scoring 24- Joey Galvis also scored in double figures with 13 in the game. The Tars shot 41 percent as a team in the loss. They went 10-26 (38 percent) from the 3-point line. At the free throw line they were 22-29 (76 percent.) They had 14 assists and 18 turnovers.
The game started with the Rams taking a early 10-2 lead. The Tars would quickly respond with a 10-0 run of their own to go up 12-10 after a pair of Merton free throws. The game would be knotted at 20 with 8:13 to go in the opening half. The Tars would go up by five (35-30) and would use a Philpott tip in at the buzzer to take a eight point (45-37) halftime lead.
The Tars would stretch the lead to 11 early in the second half but the Rams would fight back. ASU would cut the Rollins lead to one (56-55) at the 12:27 mark. The Tars would take a six point lead (61-55) as Merton would score the game's next five points. Once again the Rams would have a response though. This time a 15-2 burst by ASU would give them a 70-63 lead at the 6:35 mark. The Tars would get to within two (75-73) on a pair of Galvis 3-pointer's and a Merton bucket at the 3:15 mark. That would be as close as the Tars would get.
Rollins will be back in action Monday when they take on West Texas A@M. Tip time is set for 2 PM Eastern at the Doolittle Center. The Buffaloes were a winner over Western Washington Sunday. You can catch all the action on the Geico Tars Sports Network at 91.5 FM WPRK Winter Park and round the world at RollinsSports.com
Saturday, December 17, 2016
Rollins Tangles With #10 Angelo State In Vegas Opener Sunday.
The Rollins Tars (7-3) will play the opener of the team's annual trip to Las Vegas on Sunday in the South Point/Holiday Classic when they tangle with #10 Angelo State at the South Point Arena. Tip time is set for 2 PM eastern time and you can catch the action on the Geico Tars Sports Network on 91.5 FM WPRK Winter Park and worldwide on RollinsSports.com with Jim "Shooter" Ferro. You can also catch video of the contest on Sportstours.net
Rollins comes into Vegas off of a 112-104 overtime victory over Puerto Rico Rio Piedras on Thursday afternoon. Six Tars scored in double figures in that one, led by 19 points and five rebounds from Sam Philpott. The game was the fourth time this season the Tars eclipsed the century mark in points scored. Rollins is 25th in the nation in field goal percentage and 15th in 3-point percentage. Philpott leads the Tars box score on the season averaging 16.3 points a night- Jeff Merton is second on the team putting up 14.9 per contest and is also grabbing 5.3 rebounds. Joey Galvis is also averaging double figures (10.5 points per game.) Galvis leads the SSC and is 23rd in the nation with 23 steals in the first 10 contests.
10th ranked Angelo State comes in with a 6-0 record on the year. The Rams are one of the hardest teams to score on, as they are sixth in the nation in field goal percentage against. They are also seventh in blocked shots and third in defensive rebounds. As a team the Rams are allowing just 68.3 points per contest. The last time out the Rams were a 75-72 winner over Midwestern State on December 8th. The Rams are outscoring teams by more than 13 points a game during the 6-0 start. They are paced by Quay King who is scoring 20.7 points per night. King has hit 23 of 55 3-pointer's on the season. Lorenzo Dillard scores 15.8 points a game and is leading the team with 5.2 assists a contest. Prince Foster chips in 13.3 a game of his own. The Rams big man on the boards has been Thomas Tshikaya who grabs 9.7 rebounds a game to go along with his 9.5 points a night.
The two teams have only met one other time. It was a 87-76 Angelo State victory in Las Vegas a season ago. Jeff Merton led the Tars in that one with 19 points. The Rams were led by 16 points and 10 rebounds off the bench from Stedman Allen.
The line presented by JuanBernalSportsbooks.com:
Angelo State by 13
Rollins comes into Vegas off of a 112-104 overtime victory over Puerto Rico Rio Piedras on Thursday afternoon. Six Tars scored in double figures in that one, led by 19 points and five rebounds from Sam Philpott. The game was the fourth time this season the Tars eclipsed the century mark in points scored. Rollins is 25th in the nation in field goal percentage and 15th in 3-point percentage. Philpott leads the Tars box score on the season averaging 16.3 points a night- Jeff Merton is second on the team putting up 14.9 per contest and is also grabbing 5.3 rebounds. Joey Galvis is also averaging double figures (10.5 points per game.) Galvis leads the SSC and is 23rd in the nation with 23 steals in the first 10 contests.
10th ranked Angelo State comes in with a 6-0 record on the year. The Rams are one of the hardest teams to score on, as they are sixth in the nation in field goal percentage against. They are also seventh in blocked shots and third in defensive rebounds. As a team the Rams are allowing just 68.3 points per contest. The last time out the Rams were a 75-72 winner over Midwestern State on December 8th. The Rams are outscoring teams by more than 13 points a game during the 6-0 start. They are paced by Quay King who is scoring 20.7 points per night. King has hit 23 of 55 3-pointer's on the season. Lorenzo Dillard scores 15.8 points a game and is leading the team with 5.2 assists a contest. Prince Foster chips in 13.3 a game of his own. The Rams big man on the boards has been Thomas Tshikaya who grabs 9.7 rebounds a game to go along with his 9.5 points a night.
The two teams have only met one other time. It was a 87-76 Angelo State victory in Las Vegas a season ago. Jeff Merton led the Tars in that one with 19 points. The Rams were led by 16 points and 10 rebounds off the bench from Stedman Allen.
The line presented by JuanBernalSportsbooks.com:
Angelo State by 13
Thursday, December 15, 2016
Rollins Defeats Pesky Piedras.
The Rollins Tars needed overtime to do so, but eventually knocked off a pesky Puerto Rico Rio Piedras team 112-104 at Warden Arena Thursday afternoon. With the victory Rollins improved to 7-3 on the season. With the loss Piedras fell to 2-4. The Tars stayed perfect (12-0) all time versus the Gullitos all time.
Rollins got the win despite blowing a nine point lead in the last 1:24 of regulation. Seven Rollins players scored in double figures in this one. Sam Philpott led the way with 19 points- Jeff Merton scored 16 of his 18 in the second half- Connor McKim scored 16 points, dished out five assists and had a pair of steals. Joey Galvis and Jack Fleming scored 13 points each. Fleming also added a career high seven assists. Blake Admire set a new career high with 11 points- and- Mike Bedulskis added 10. Eric Castaneda led the Tars with a career high 11 rebounds in the win.
The Tars shot 61 percent as a team in this one. They shot 58 percent (15-26) from the 3-point line. They were a solid 21-27 (77 percent) from the free throw line. The Tars won the rebounding battle 36-31. They had 25 assists and 20 turnovers.
The Gullitos were paced by a hot shooting Omar Font. Font hit 10 of his 14 3-point attempts on the way to a 36 point game- He had five steals and four assists. Gabriel Anglero added 23- while Krystian Medina netted 14. Esteban Cordero led the Gullitos with 14 assists. Rio-Piedras shot 50 percent as a team and shot 44 percent (24-54) from the 3-point line. They only shot 67 percent (8-12) from the free throw line. They had 27 assists and 22 turnovers.
Piedras came out hit red hot hitting five of the first six shots they took (all 3-pointer's) and jumped out to a 11 point lead early (15-4.) The Tars would bounce back with a 14-3 run of their own over the next four minutes to knot the game at 18. Admire scored eight of those 14 points for the Tars. After Piedras took a brief lead Bedulskis would score six straight and Rollins would take a nine point lead (32-23)with seven minutes in the half. The Gullitos would have another run and would take a five point lead late. The Tars would end the half with a pair of 3-pointer's (one by Philpott and another by Jakobbi Bonner) to take a 45-44 halftime lead.
The Tars looked to be in complete control after taking a 14 point lead (77-63) at the 8:22 mark after Merton hit a couple free throws. The Gullitos would get to within six (90-84) at the 2:09 mark but McKim buried a 3-pointer to make it a nine point lead (93-84) at the 1:24 mark. The Tars would have three consecutive turnovers and Piedras would be within two (93-91) with 30 seconds to play. A pair of Fleming free throws would make it a four point game on the ensuing possession. Another 3-pointer, this one by Anglero cut it to one (95-94.) Fleming would go back to the line and nail two more to make it 97-94. Anglero would then bank in a 3-pointer at the buzzer that would send the game to an extra session.
Each team would get a bucket early in the overtime. The Tars would have a four point lead, before a 3-pointer by Medina would cut the lead to one (105-104.) That would be the last points the Gullitos would score as McKim would seal the Tars victory at the free throw line.
After the game the Tars boarded a plane to Las Vegas where they will take part in the Las Vegas South Point Classic on Sunday and Monday. Each game will be at 2 PM Eastern Time and can be heard on the Geico Tars Sports Network on 915 FM WPRK Winter Park and worldwide on RollinsSports.com
Rollins got the win despite blowing a nine point lead in the last 1:24 of regulation. Seven Rollins players scored in double figures in this one. Sam Philpott led the way with 19 points- Jeff Merton scored 16 of his 18 in the second half- Connor McKim scored 16 points, dished out five assists and had a pair of steals. Joey Galvis and Jack Fleming scored 13 points each. Fleming also added a career high seven assists. Blake Admire set a new career high with 11 points- and- Mike Bedulskis added 10. Eric Castaneda led the Tars with a career high 11 rebounds in the win.
The Tars shot 61 percent as a team in this one. They shot 58 percent (15-26) from the 3-point line. They were a solid 21-27 (77 percent) from the free throw line. The Tars won the rebounding battle 36-31. They had 25 assists and 20 turnovers.
The Gullitos were paced by a hot shooting Omar Font. Font hit 10 of his 14 3-point attempts on the way to a 36 point game- He had five steals and four assists. Gabriel Anglero added 23- while Krystian Medina netted 14. Esteban Cordero led the Gullitos with 14 assists. Rio-Piedras shot 50 percent as a team and shot 44 percent (24-54) from the 3-point line. They only shot 67 percent (8-12) from the free throw line. They had 27 assists and 22 turnovers.
Piedras came out hit red hot hitting five of the first six shots they took (all 3-pointer's) and jumped out to a 11 point lead early (15-4.) The Tars would bounce back with a 14-3 run of their own over the next four minutes to knot the game at 18. Admire scored eight of those 14 points for the Tars. After Piedras took a brief lead Bedulskis would score six straight and Rollins would take a nine point lead (32-23)with seven minutes in the half. The Gullitos would have another run and would take a five point lead late. The Tars would end the half with a pair of 3-pointer's (one by Philpott and another by Jakobbi Bonner) to take a 45-44 halftime lead.
The Tars looked to be in complete control after taking a 14 point lead (77-63) at the 8:22 mark after Merton hit a couple free throws. The Gullitos would get to within six (90-84) at the 2:09 mark but McKim buried a 3-pointer to make it a nine point lead (93-84) at the 1:24 mark. The Tars would have three consecutive turnovers and Piedras would be within two (93-91) with 30 seconds to play. A pair of Fleming free throws would make it a four point game on the ensuing possession. Another 3-pointer, this one by Anglero cut it to one (95-94.) Fleming would go back to the line and nail two more to make it 97-94. Anglero would then bank in a 3-pointer at the buzzer that would send the game to an extra session.
Each team would get a bucket early in the overtime. The Tars would have a four point lead, before a 3-pointer by Medina would cut the lead to one (105-104.) That would be the last points the Gullitos would score as McKim would seal the Tars victory at the free throw line.
After the game the Tars boarded a plane to Las Vegas where they will take part in the Las Vegas South Point Classic on Sunday and Monday. Each game will be at 2 PM Eastern Time and can be heard on the Geico Tars Sports Network on 915 FM WPRK Winter Park and worldwide on RollinsSports.com
Wednesday, December 14, 2016
Tars Back In Action Thursday Versus Gallitos.
The Rollins Tars will be back in action Thursday afternoon when they take on Puerto Rico Rio Piedras at Warden Arena. The game tips off at 1 PM and can be seen on the Geico Tars Sports Network at RollinsSports.com and on 91.5 FM WPRK Winter Park. Robert Segal and Jim "Shooter" Ferro will have the call.
Rollins (6-3) comes into the game after what was the team's best defensive effort of the season in a 66-64 win over Warner. Sam Philpott had a career high 25 points in his second consecutive start after coming off the bench earlier in the season. Philpott now paces the Tars attack averaging 16 points per night- Jeff Merton has tailed off in the last couple games but is second on the team at 14.6 a contest. Merton is 93 points shy of 1,000 for his Rollins career. Joey Galvis is also coming off a stellar performance. The senior from Tampa Jesuit had a big game including the game winning old fashioned three point play against Warner. He is averaging 10.2 a game- Galvis is shooting 50 percent from both the field and the 3-point line. The Tars have never lost to Piedras going 11-0. The last time the two teams met Rollins was a 87-53 winner in 2012. Dave Diakite (16 pts.) and Brett Chance (15) led the Tars in that one.
The Gallitos are paced by Esteban Cordero who is scoring 13.2 points a game and grabbing 4.5 rebounds per night- Omar Font is second on the team in scoring at 12.8 a night- while Krystian Medina nearly averages a double-double (9.8 points and 9.8 rebounds per contest.) Last time out they were a 89-82 loser to Flagler Wednesday afternoon. Medina scored a game high 31 in the defeat. Font also scored in double figures with 20 in the loss to Flagler.
The line presented by JuanBernalSportsBooks.com:
Rollins by 15.5
Rollins (6-3) comes into the game after what was the team's best defensive effort of the season in a 66-64 win over Warner. Sam Philpott had a career high 25 points in his second consecutive start after coming off the bench earlier in the season. Philpott now paces the Tars attack averaging 16 points per night- Jeff Merton has tailed off in the last couple games but is second on the team at 14.6 a contest. Merton is 93 points shy of 1,000 for his Rollins career. Joey Galvis is also coming off a stellar performance. The senior from Tampa Jesuit had a big game including the game winning old fashioned three point play against Warner. He is averaging 10.2 a game- Galvis is shooting 50 percent from both the field and the 3-point line. The Tars have never lost to Piedras going 11-0. The last time the two teams met Rollins was a 87-53 winner in 2012. Dave Diakite (16 pts.) and Brett Chance (15) led the Tars in that one.
The Gallitos are paced by Esteban Cordero who is scoring 13.2 points a game and grabbing 4.5 rebounds per night- Omar Font is second on the team in scoring at 12.8 a night- while Krystian Medina nearly averages a double-double (9.8 points and 9.8 rebounds per contest.) Last time out they were a 89-82 loser to Flagler Wednesday afternoon. Medina scored a game high 31 in the defeat. Font also scored in double figures with 20 in the loss to Flagler.
The line presented by JuanBernalSportsBooks.com:
Rollins by 15.5
Friday, December 9, 2016
Defense Sparks Tars Victory Over Warner.
For the first time in the 2016-17 basketball season the Rollins Tars found a way to win a game when they did not have one of their better nights at the offensive end. Rather fittingly it would be a pair of defensive plays down the stretch that would get Rollins the 66-64 win over Warner. Joey Galvis got a conventional 3-point play that proved to be the game winner off of a deflection and run out. Then it would be one last stop that would seal the victory.
Rollins (6-3 1-2 SSC) was led by a career night from Sam Philpott. Philpott set a new career high with 25 points- the Noblesville, Indiana native also added 10 rebounds. The Tars also got double digit scoring from Galvis (18 points-) and 10 from Mike Bedulskis. The Tars shot 42 percent from the field and went 7-22 from the 3-point line. The Tars struggled at the free throw line, where they shot just 50 percent (7-14.) They won the rebounding battle 45-39. The Tars had 20 assists and 19 turnovers.
Warner (10-2) saw its five game winning streak snapped. The Royals were led by Adam Giger who scored 15 points on five 3-pointer's- Warren Hall was held to a season low 13 points (21.7 under his season average-) and Denzel Osson also added 13. Warner shot 37 percent on the game. They were 10-39 (26 percent) from the 3-point line- and 6-9 (67 percent) from the free throw line. The Royals had 17 assists and 18 turnovers.
The game got off to a sluggish start as neither team could find the basket. Philpott scored all six points to give Rollins a 6-0 lead four minutes in. The Tars would stretch the lead to 10 (18-8) before Warner went on a 7-1 run to cut the lead to four (19-15) with just under six minutes left in the half. The Tars would lead by eight (27-19) with 2:21 to go in the half, before the Royals would finish the half on a 11-0 run. A 3-pointer by Osson from 35 fee would give the Royals a 30-27 halftime lead.
Nick Macon would hit a 3-pointer to give the Royals a six point lead (33-27) before the Tars fought back to regain the lead (36-35) with 16:13 to go. Four lead changes and five ties would occur over the next five minutes. The Tars would take a 47-46 lead on a Merton tip in. The Tars would lead by eight at the 5:27 mark but Warner once again fought back. The Royals took a 64-62 lead with 2:17 to go. Those would be the last points the Royals would score. Galvis would make the play of the game with 1:06 to go and the Tars down one. Galvis would tip a pass and get a steal then take it to the other end to complete what proved to be the game winning 3-point play. The Tars would have a chance to "ice it but Eric Castaneda would miss the front end of a one and one. The Royals would call time out with 20 seconds to go and would get the ball in the hands of the NAIA's leading scorer. The Tars would come out of the time in the 1-3-1 defense and Hall would end up taking a highly contested 3-pointer that ended up being a air ball. Castaneda would then have the presence of mind to grab the ball off the rebound and throw it towards the other end of the court to preserve the Tars sixth win of the season.
Rollins will be back in action Thursday when they welcome Puerto Rico Rio Piedras. Tip time is set for 1 PM. You can catch the action on the Geico Tars Sports Network at RollinsSports.com and locally on 91.5 FM WPRK.
Rollins (6-3 1-2 SSC) was led by a career night from Sam Philpott. Philpott set a new career high with 25 points- the Noblesville, Indiana native also added 10 rebounds. The Tars also got double digit scoring from Galvis (18 points-) and 10 from Mike Bedulskis. The Tars shot 42 percent from the field and went 7-22 from the 3-point line. The Tars struggled at the free throw line, where they shot just 50 percent (7-14.) They won the rebounding battle 45-39. The Tars had 20 assists and 19 turnovers.
Warner (10-2) saw its five game winning streak snapped. The Royals were led by Adam Giger who scored 15 points on five 3-pointer's- Warren Hall was held to a season low 13 points (21.7 under his season average-) and Denzel Osson also added 13. Warner shot 37 percent on the game. They were 10-39 (26 percent) from the 3-point line- and 6-9 (67 percent) from the free throw line. The Royals had 17 assists and 18 turnovers.
The game got off to a sluggish start as neither team could find the basket. Philpott scored all six points to give Rollins a 6-0 lead four minutes in. The Tars would stretch the lead to 10 (18-8) before Warner went on a 7-1 run to cut the lead to four (19-15) with just under six minutes left in the half. The Tars would lead by eight (27-19) with 2:21 to go in the half, before the Royals would finish the half on a 11-0 run. A 3-pointer by Osson from 35 fee would give the Royals a 30-27 halftime lead.
Nick Macon would hit a 3-pointer to give the Royals a six point lead (33-27) before the Tars fought back to regain the lead (36-35) with 16:13 to go. Four lead changes and five ties would occur over the next five minutes. The Tars would take a 47-46 lead on a Merton tip in. The Tars would lead by eight at the 5:27 mark but Warner once again fought back. The Royals took a 64-62 lead with 2:17 to go. Those would be the last points the Royals would score. Galvis would make the play of the game with 1:06 to go and the Tars down one. Galvis would tip a pass and get a steal then take it to the other end to complete what proved to be the game winning 3-point play. The Tars would have a chance to "ice it but Eric Castaneda would miss the front end of a one and one. The Royals would call time out with 20 seconds to go and would get the ball in the hands of the NAIA's leading scorer. The Tars would come out of the time in the 1-3-1 defense and Hall would end up taking a highly contested 3-pointer that ended up being a air ball. Castaneda would then have the presence of mind to grab the ball off the rebound and throw it towards the other end of the court to preserve the Tars sixth win of the season.
Rollins will be back in action Thursday when they welcome Puerto Rico Rio Piedras. Tip time is set for 1 PM. You can catch the action on the Geico Tars Sports Network at RollinsSports.com and locally on 91.5 FM WPRK.
Tars Welcome Warner To Warden Arena Friday.
The Rollins Tars look to get back on the winning track when they welcome the Warner Royals to Winter Park in a rare Friday night game. as always you can listen to all the action with Robert Siegel and Jim Ferro on 91.5 FM WPRK and worldwide on RollinsSports.com.
The Tars(5-3) are looking to snap a two game losing streak. They were defeated by Eckerd 82-73 on Saturday. Sam Philpott paced the Tars with 20 points in that loss- while Connor McKim and Mike Bedulskis each scored 13. Rollins who had been averaging 87.8 points a game before Deion Clark went down with a broken hand, have averaged 84 points a night in the last three (two losses.)
Jeff Merton leads three Rollins players in double figures on the season. Merton is putting up 15.4 points a game and leads the team in rebounding at 5.1 rebounds a night. Sam Philpott is shooting 58 percent from the field on the season and putting up 14.9 points and 3.5 rebounds a contest. Jack Fleming is scoring 10 points a game.
Warner (10-1) has the leading scorer in all of NAIA. Warren Hall is averaging 34.7 points a game on the season. He had a 46 point performance against Milligan- and has had pair of 45 point outbursts as well. He has scored at least 21 points in every game this season. Also Hall leads the team in rebounding at 7.5 per contest. Josh Ellis also scores in double figures, putting up 13.1 points a game. The Royals average 90 points a game, while they give up 76.2 a night.
The line presented by JuanBernalSportsBooks.com:
Rollins by 9.5
The Tars(5-3) are looking to snap a two game losing streak. They were defeated by Eckerd 82-73 on Saturday. Sam Philpott paced the Tars with 20 points in that loss- while Connor McKim and Mike Bedulskis each scored 13. Rollins who had been averaging 87.8 points a game before Deion Clark went down with a broken hand, have averaged 84 points a night in the last three (two losses.)
Jeff Merton leads three Rollins players in double figures on the season. Merton is putting up 15.4 points a game and leads the team in rebounding at 5.1 rebounds a night. Sam Philpott is shooting 58 percent from the field on the season and putting up 14.9 points and 3.5 rebounds a contest. Jack Fleming is scoring 10 points a game.
Warner (10-1) has the leading scorer in all of NAIA. Warren Hall is averaging 34.7 points a game on the season. He had a 46 point performance against Milligan- and has had pair of 45 point outbursts as well. He has scored at least 21 points in every game this season. Also Hall leads the team in rebounding at 7.5 per contest. Josh Ellis also scores in double figures, putting up 13.1 points a game. The Royals average 90 points a game, while they give up 76.2 a night.
The line presented by JuanBernalSportsBooks.com:
Rollins by 9.5
Sunday, December 4, 2016
Meet the 2106-17 Rollins College Tars.
Starters:
Connor McKim (#2)
freshman
Guard
6 foot 170 lbs.
Louisville, Ky (St.Xavier High School.)
Led St.X to its 26th regional championship and seventh regional runner up. Was the Regional Player Of The Year last season. Was also First team all region and Third Team All-State. Scored over 1,000 career points at St.Xavier.
Rollins insider Juan Bernal had these thoughts on McKim:
"He is a shooter who can play the point as well. I have limited knowledge because I have never seen him play. He sounds like the most promising of the newcomers though."
Teammate Eric Castenada also had positive thoughts on McKim:
"McKim is a great point guard who can spread the floor and find the open man."
Mike Beduslkis agreed:
"Connor is a true freshman who is a really crafty point guard. He is a solid passer and shooter, who is really good in the open court. He will be relied on heavily. He will need to pick up the offense and defense quickly, as he will be one of our main guards this season."
Pete's take: McKim will be the Tars starting point guard this season. He is part of a very deep freshman class. Is a very underrated shooter. He and Bonner will play lots of significant minutes for this team.
Jakobi Bonner (#21)
freshman
Guard
6 foot 2 205 lbs.
Winter Springs,Fla. (Master's Academy.)
Started at Winter Springs High School before going to the Master's Academy his junior and senior seasons. Was Defensive Player Of The Year and First Team All District his sophomore season at Winter Springs High. His senior year he led the Master's Academy to their first ever district title. Was the 4-A District Player Of The Year and Orlando Sentinel Second Team All-Area. Was the first player in school history to eclipse 1,000 points in two seasons at Master's Academy. Left as the school's all time leading scorer. Was third team All-State and was the Male Athlete of The Year.
Bernal is impressed with how he hustles more than anything:
"Jakobi is an athletic guard who defends well and gets to the basket. A playmaker and a hustler. In two years he and Parker Davis will be two of the top three guards in the SSC."
Bernal said.
Pete's take: Bonner is a solid player and gives the Tars a guy who can get to the rim on the bounce. He is also one of the better defensive players on the team.
Sam Philpott (#31)
redshirt junior
Center/Forward
6 foot 7 200 lbs.
Noblesville,Indiana (Nobelsville High School.)
2015-2016: Had a breakout season playing in all 30 games. Averaged 21 minutes- and scored 13.1 points per night. Shot 63 percent from the field and 34 percent from the 3-point line on the year. Was 10th in the SSC in free throw shooting, shooting at a 79 percent clip. Scored in double figures 23 times, including the last 14 in a row to end the season. Scored a career high 21 points twice.
2014-15: Played in 19 games. Averaged 2.7 points and 1.3 rebounds per game. Shot 44 percent from the floor on the year. Recorded his first collegiate points on 11/14 against Clark-Atlanta. Had career high 10 points against Florida Memorial on 1/3.
2013-14: Redshirt
Bedulskis talked about how Philpott really work hard in the off-season:
" Sam has become faster and leaner this year, he is the vocal leader and captain of this team. He is a great shooter, with great touch around the rim. He is also a solid offensive rebounder who is very smart and crafty in the offense."
Pete's take: Another solid season is expected of the Tars workhorse. He is good enough to be All SSC First Team.
Jeff Merton (#44)
junior
Forward
6 foot 5 215 lbs.
Naples,Fla. (Community School of Naples)
2015-16: Led the team in scoring at 15.5 points per game. Was a solid shooter, shooting 49 percent from the field on the year. Was a 79 percent free throw shooter and led the team in rebounding. Scored in double figures 24 times included eight 20+ point games. Was sixth in the SSC in field goal percentage and fourth in 3-point shooting percentage. Was All SSC First Team and All District Second Team.
2014-15: Had a solid freshman campaign. Scored in double figures 17 times, including three games that he scored 20 points or more. Played 31.3 minutes per night. He averaged 11.1 points and five rebounds a contest. Had a double-double versus Florida Southern on 1/28. Then on 1/31 he had a career high 23 points versus Lynn. Finished the season with 21 points against eventual national champion Florida Southern.
Castenada sang the praises of Merton:
" He is a lights out shooter that can make a play even when he is not scoring. "
Bedulskis spoke of how Merton will expand his game this season:
" Jeff will look to be more of an all around player this season. He will play in the post a lot more, shoot a lot of 3-pointer's as a trailer and be an aggressive rebounder. He knows our offense well and will be our go to guy this season."
Pete's take: What will Merton do for an encore after being All SSC First Team last season? Conference Player Of The Year is possible.
Jack Fleming (#4)
senior
Forward
6 foot 6 205 lbs.
Tampa,Fla. (Tampa Jesuit High School)
2015-16: Appeared in 19 games as a member of the Tars averaging 10.5 minutes per game. Averaged three points a game on the year. Added 24 rebounds- nine steals and three blocks for the season. Tied his career high with three points versus Paine on 11/13. Set a new career high with 10 points against Eckerd on 2/3. Had eight points and three steals against Lynn on 1/6.
2014-15: Played for Colgate but saw no court time.
2013-14: Played in six games. Hit first 3-pointer against Binghamton on 12/1. Scored five points on the season. Played four minutes twice.
Bernal likes his offensive game:
" Jack is a shooter. One of the best shooters in Division II as a matter of fact. Is a very smart player, Health has always been an issue. If he can stay healthy, he could be an X factor.
Pete's take: Can really help this team if he's healthy. Is an outstanding shooter.
Bench:
Mike Bedulskis (#14)
senior
Center
6 foot 9 220 lbs.
Vilnius,Lithuania
2015-16: Started all 30 games for the Tars. Had an up and down season. He averaged 16.2 minutes per game. Averaged 7.2 points and 3.8 rebounds a night. Scored in double figures nine times. On 10 occasions he was perfect from the free throw line.
2014-15: Played in 27 games with the Tars. He averaged 11.6 minutes per game. Averaged 3.9 points and 2.1 rebounds per night. Scored in double figures five times.
2013-14: Played in six games for UNC Asheville. Scored 14 points in 18 minutes. First collegiate points came against Kentucky on 11/8.
Fellow big man Nils Lehmann commented on how practice is with "Big Mike":
"It is very good competition between the big men in practice. We really practice hard and thrive to make each other better. "
Bernal commented on his leadership:
" Mike has had his ups and downs. He has stuck it out and been a leader on this team."
Pete's take: The Tars are a much better team when Bedulskis is ultra aggressive. Gets to passive at times around the rim.
Joey Galvis (#32)
senior
Guard
6 foot 1 165 lbs,
Tampa,Fla. (Tampa Jesuit High School)
2015-16: Doubled his total of games played from the previous season, playing in 28 contests. Averaged 13.3 minutes and 6.9 points per game. Was instant offense off the bench shooting 51 percent from the field and 47 percent from the 3-point line. Led the team and was one of the best in the SSC with 46 steals on the year. Scored in double figures eight times. Had a career high 20 points against Nova Southeastern on 12/4 that included the game winning 3-pointer in the final seconds. The Tars won that game 75-74 in overtime. On 1/20 he had 11 points and five steals against Florida Southern.
2014-15: He scored 27 points in 14 games. Had eight rebounds, seven assists and three steals on the year. Shot 75 percent from the free throw line. Had eight points and four rebounds in win over Florida Tech on 2/25.
2013-14: Saw action in 15 games as a freshman scoring 21 points. Scored his first collegiate points against Palm Beach Atlantic on 11/12.
Bernal commended the coaching staff on this find:
" Joey was a great find by Tom, Brad and Kyle. He had his ups and downs but really developed into a good Rollins player because of his IQ and defensive tenacity. He and the rest of this class are so resilient."
Pete's take: The most improved player on this team since his freshman season. Is really fun to watch, especially on the defensive end where he is really good at jumping passing lanes. Has also developed into a good 3-point shooter.
Eric Castenada (#15)
redshirt sophomore
Guard
6 foot 4 175 lbs.
Oviedo,Fla. (Haggerty High School)
2015-16: Played in 27 games for the Tars, averaging 10.4 minutes a game. Scored 3.9 points a game while shooting 33 percent from the 3-point line. Was a 79 percent free throw shooter. Had a career high 12 points and four steals against Puerto Rico Bayamon on 11/23.
2014-15: Redshirt
Pete's take: Had a very strong finish to last season. Is very athletic and plays really hard!!
Blake Admire (#23)
redshirt freshman
Guard
6 foot 4 190 lbs.
Mobile,Ala. (Spanish Fort High School)
Played point and wing for Spanish Fort High as a senior after attending UMS Wright his first three seasons. Was three time All District and two time All State player. Was First team All Coastal Alabama, two time MVP and four time All Tournament selection. His senior season was the 4A Player Of The Year as his Spanish Fort team won 26 games and had their best run in post-season history. That season he averaged 18 points, eight rebounds, and six assists a game. His junior year at UMS Wright he averaged 21 points- seven assists and three rebounds a game.
2015-16: Redshirt
Bernal commented on Admire's shot:
" Blake is a guard who can shoot it. He is going to have to compete a lot for minutes considering how good this freshman class is."
Pete's take: Going to be hard to crack the rotation with this freshman class. Only way Admire can do it is if he shoots real well.
Daniel Loh (#22)
sophomore
Forward
6 foot 8 220 lbs.
Oviedo,Fla. (Haggerty High School)
2015-16: Played in 17 games for the Tars, scored 29 points and grabbed 32 rebounds for the season. Had his best all around game in a win over Paine. He scored four points- grabbed seven rebounds and had a pair of steals in that one. Had a solid game on 11/18 against Warner when he scored six points. Had five blocks and five steals for the season.
Castaneda commented on his size:
" He is a big defensive presence in the paint."
Beduslkis mentioned the work he put in during the off-season:
"Dan added some strength this off-season, he is a super athletic and quick big man who has a good variety of post moves. To see more minutes he will need to get tougher and be more aggressive."
Pete's take: Loh will see some minutes when the Tars play bigger teams, but he has not worked himself into the rotation yet. May see him and Philpott on the floor at the same time a little bit this season.
Nils Lehmann (#5)
redshirt freshman
6 foot 5 225 lbs.
Kiel, Germany
2015-16: Redshirt
Attended Winter Park High School as a foreign exchange student. Led his team in Germany to the state championship in 2014. Averaged 18 points- 5.5 rebounds- and three rebounds a game as a senior.
Bernal had this to say about Lehmann:
" He is a forward who can rebound and runs the floor well."
When asked what the biggest difference between the game overseas and here in the United States this is what he told me:
" The European game is a lot more structured and team oriented. It doesn't really as much on individual strength and is more tactical. The U.S game is a lot quicker and faster."
Pete's take: Can always use another big man who can get some rebounds. Lehmann could fit this role.
Marcus Camacho (#3)
redshirt sophomore
junior
Guard
6 foot 4 190 lbs.
Winter Spring,Fla. (Winter Springs High School)
2015-16: Sat out the season with an injury
2014-15: Redshirt
Stated sophomore thru senior seasons at Winter Springs and earned four letters. As a senior he averaged 18 points- six rebounds and three assists a game. Was Second Team All District and Second Team All-Area his senior season.
Pete's take: Could contribute if healthy, but injuries have always been an issue.
Out Injured:
Deion Clark (#1)
redshirt junior
Guard/Forward
6 foot 3 200 lbs.
Naples,Fla. (Barron Collier High School)
2015-16: Joined the Tars after transferring from Old Dominion. Had a break out season. He averaged 9.9 points a game and shot 77 percent from the free throw line. Scored in double figures 12 times. Had a career high 22 points against Warner on 11/18. Had a career high 12 rebounds against Florida Tech on 2/13.
2014-15: Played in 20 games for Old Dominion. He scored 15 points in 70 minutes (0.8 ppg.-) shot 33 percent from the field- and- went five of seven at the free throw line for the year. Was 0 for 4 from the 3-point line. Collected 11 rebounds, had two steals and one assists.
2013-14: Redshirt
2012-13: Scored a career high 13 points versus Delaware and 12 versus Murray State. Had three steals in a game versus the College of Charleston. Injured his left knee in game versus George Mason. Returned to play 10 minutes in the final game of the season versus Northeastern.
Bernal commented on his athletic ability amongst other things:
" He is a great teammate and playmaker. Doesn't do anything particularly well, but just makes plays when you need one. A must have on the floor at all times."
Bernal gave Clark the ultimate compliment:
" Deion may be the most underrated player in Rollins history. "
Pete's take: Clark is the "glue guy" for this team and it is very unfortunate that he broke his hand. That is the bad news. The good news is he had successful surgery on the hand. Another redshirt this season is possible. They really miss his IQ and ability to get to the rim.
Zach Ullian (#12)
redshirt sophomore
Guard
6 foot 4 215 lbs.
Indianlantic,Fla. (Holy Trinity High School)
2015-16: Saw action in 11 games scoring 17 points. Went 4 of 6 from the floor and 2 of 4 from the 3-point line. Was a solid 7 of 8 at the free throw line. Scored five points and grabbed a rebound in win over Clark-Atlanta on 11/14
2014-15: Redshirt
Was a three year letter winner for Holy Trinity High School. Won the 2014 District Championship, and was in the regional finals both his junior and senior year. Was a 47 percent career 3-point shooter. Scored a career high 38 points versus Father Lopez. Set the school record in that one with seven 3-pointer's made.
Bernal on Ullian:
" A very good shooter who may get some minutes off the bench."
Pete's take: As long as his shot is falling Ullian should play a few minutes a game when healthy. When/if his shot goes cold is when he could lose minutes. First he has to get healthy enough to get in the rotation though. He is out indefinelty.
Redshirts:
Christian Munson (#35)
freshman
Forward
6 foot 6 205 lbs.
Carmel,Indiana
Led Guerin Catholic in Carmel,Indiana to the 2014 sectional and regional championship. In 2015 they won the state championship. He averaged 22.4 points a game. This while scoring over 1,000 points in his high school career.
Pete's take: Very limited knowledge on this guy, but he had a solid high school career.
Parker Davis (#13)
freshman
Guard
6 foot 1 175 lbs.
Windermere,Fla. (Windermere Prep.)
Led Windermere to the 3A State Championship in 2016. Was Second Team All State and First Team All Area. Was the 2016 Class 3A Player of The Year.
Bernal really likes his game:
" Parker is a point guard who is real aggressive and finishes well. He and Jakobi will be two of the three best guards in the conference two years from now."
Pete's take: Could be the heir apparent to James Ferrell. Very solid future for him.
Connor McKim (#2)
freshman
Guard
6 foot 170 lbs.
Louisville, Ky (St.Xavier High School.)
Led St.X to its 26th regional championship and seventh regional runner up. Was the Regional Player Of The Year last season. Was also First team all region and Third Team All-State. Scored over 1,000 career points at St.Xavier.
Rollins insider Juan Bernal had these thoughts on McKim:
"He is a shooter who can play the point as well. I have limited knowledge because I have never seen him play. He sounds like the most promising of the newcomers though."
Teammate Eric Castenada also had positive thoughts on McKim:
"McKim is a great point guard who can spread the floor and find the open man."
Mike Beduslkis agreed:
"Connor is a true freshman who is a really crafty point guard. He is a solid passer and shooter, who is really good in the open court. He will be relied on heavily. He will need to pick up the offense and defense quickly, as he will be one of our main guards this season."
Pete's take: McKim will be the Tars starting point guard this season. He is part of a very deep freshman class. Is a very underrated shooter. He and Bonner will play lots of significant minutes for this team.
Jakobi Bonner (#21)
freshman
Guard
6 foot 2 205 lbs.
Winter Springs,Fla. (Master's Academy.)
Started at Winter Springs High School before going to the Master's Academy his junior and senior seasons. Was Defensive Player Of The Year and First Team All District his sophomore season at Winter Springs High. His senior year he led the Master's Academy to their first ever district title. Was the 4-A District Player Of The Year and Orlando Sentinel Second Team All-Area. Was the first player in school history to eclipse 1,000 points in two seasons at Master's Academy. Left as the school's all time leading scorer. Was third team All-State and was the Male Athlete of The Year.
Bernal is impressed with how he hustles more than anything:
"Jakobi is an athletic guard who defends well and gets to the basket. A playmaker and a hustler. In two years he and Parker Davis will be two of the top three guards in the SSC."
Bernal said.
Pete's take: Bonner is a solid player and gives the Tars a guy who can get to the rim on the bounce. He is also one of the better defensive players on the team.
Sam Philpott (#31)
redshirt junior
Center/Forward
6 foot 7 200 lbs.
Noblesville,Indiana (Nobelsville High School.)
2015-2016: Had a breakout season playing in all 30 games. Averaged 21 minutes- and scored 13.1 points per night. Shot 63 percent from the field and 34 percent from the 3-point line on the year. Was 10th in the SSC in free throw shooting, shooting at a 79 percent clip. Scored in double figures 23 times, including the last 14 in a row to end the season. Scored a career high 21 points twice.
2014-15: Played in 19 games. Averaged 2.7 points and 1.3 rebounds per game. Shot 44 percent from the floor on the year. Recorded his first collegiate points on 11/14 against Clark-Atlanta. Had career high 10 points against Florida Memorial on 1/3.
2013-14: Redshirt
Bedulskis talked about how Philpott really work hard in the off-season:
" Sam has become faster and leaner this year, he is the vocal leader and captain of this team. He is a great shooter, with great touch around the rim. He is also a solid offensive rebounder who is very smart and crafty in the offense."
Pete's take: Another solid season is expected of the Tars workhorse. He is good enough to be All SSC First Team.
Jeff Merton (#44)
junior
Forward
6 foot 5 215 lbs.
Naples,Fla. (Community School of Naples)
2015-16: Led the team in scoring at 15.5 points per game. Was a solid shooter, shooting 49 percent from the field on the year. Was a 79 percent free throw shooter and led the team in rebounding. Scored in double figures 24 times included eight 20+ point games. Was sixth in the SSC in field goal percentage and fourth in 3-point shooting percentage. Was All SSC First Team and All District Second Team.
2014-15: Had a solid freshman campaign. Scored in double figures 17 times, including three games that he scored 20 points or more. Played 31.3 minutes per night. He averaged 11.1 points and five rebounds a contest. Had a double-double versus Florida Southern on 1/28. Then on 1/31 he had a career high 23 points versus Lynn. Finished the season with 21 points against eventual national champion Florida Southern.
Castenada sang the praises of Merton:
" He is a lights out shooter that can make a play even when he is not scoring. "
Bedulskis spoke of how Merton will expand his game this season:
" Jeff will look to be more of an all around player this season. He will play in the post a lot more, shoot a lot of 3-pointer's as a trailer and be an aggressive rebounder. He knows our offense well and will be our go to guy this season."
Pete's take: What will Merton do for an encore after being All SSC First Team last season? Conference Player Of The Year is possible.
Jack Fleming (#4)
senior
Forward
6 foot 6 205 lbs.
Tampa,Fla. (Tampa Jesuit High School)
2015-16: Appeared in 19 games as a member of the Tars averaging 10.5 minutes per game. Averaged three points a game on the year. Added 24 rebounds- nine steals and three blocks for the season. Tied his career high with three points versus Paine on 11/13. Set a new career high with 10 points against Eckerd on 2/3. Had eight points and three steals against Lynn on 1/6.
2014-15: Played for Colgate but saw no court time.
2013-14: Played in six games. Hit first 3-pointer against Binghamton on 12/1. Scored five points on the season. Played four minutes twice.
Bernal likes his offensive game:
" Jack is a shooter. One of the best shooters in Division II as a matter of fact. Is a very smart player, Health has always been an issue. If he can stay healthy, he could be an X factor.
Pete's take: Can really help this team if he's healthy. Is an outstanding shooter.
Bench:
Mike Bedulskis (#14)
senior
Center
6 foot 9 220 lbs.
Vilnius,Lithuania
2015-16: Started all 30 games for the Tars. Had an up and down season. He averaged 16.2 minutes per game. Averaged 7.2 points and 3.8 rebounds a night. Scored in double figures nine times. On 10 occasions he was perfect from the free throw line.
2014-15: Played in 27 games with the Tars. He averaged 11.6 minutes per game. Averaged 3.9 points and 2.1 rebounds per night. Scored in double figures five times.
2013-14: Played in six games for UNC Asheville. Scored 14 points in 18 minutes. First collegiate points came against Kentucky on 11/8.
Fellow big man Nils Lehmann commented on how practice is with "Big Mike":
"It is very good competition between the big men in practice. We really practice hard and thrive to make each other better. "
Bernal commented on his leadership:
" Mike has had his ups and downs. He has stuck it out and been a leader on this team."
Pete's take: The Tars are a much better team when Bedulskis is ultra aggressive. Gets to passive at times around the rim.
Joey Galvis (#32)
senior
Guard
6 foot 1 165 lbs,
Tampa,Fla. (Tampa Jesuit High School)
2015-16: Doubled his total of games played from the previous season, playing in 28 contests. Averaged 13.3 minutes and 6.9 points per game. Was instant offense off the bench shooting 51 percent from the field and 47 percent from the 3-point line. Led the team and was one of the best in the SSC with 46 steals on the year. Scored in double figures eight times. Had a career high 20 points against Nova Southeastern on 12/4 that included the game winning 3-pointer in the final seconds. The Tars won that game 75-74 in overtime. On 1/20 he had 11 points and five steals against Florida Southern.
2014-15: He scored 27 points in 14 games. Had eight rebounds, seven assists and three steals on the year. Shot 75 percent from the free throw line. Had eight points and four rebounds in win over Florida Tech on 2/25.
2013-14: Saw action in 15 games as a freshman scoring 21 points. Scored his first collegiate points against Palm Beach Atlantic on 11/12.
Bernal commended the coaching staff on this find:
" Joey was a great find by Tom, Brad and Kyle. He had his ups and downs but really developed into a good Rollins player because of his IQ and defensive tenacity. He and the rest of this class are so resilient."
Pete's take: The most improved player on this team since his freshman season. Is really fun to watch, especially on the defensive end where he is really good at jumping passing lanes. Has also developed into a good 3-point shooter.
Eric Castenada (#15)
redshirt sophomore
Guard
6 foot 4 175 lbs.
Oviedo,Fla. (Haggerty High School)
2015-16: Played in 27 games for the Tars, averaging 10.4 minutes a game. Scored 3.9 points a game while shooting 33 percent from the 3-point line. Was a 79 percent free throw shooter. Had a career high 12 points and four steals against Puerto Rico Bayamon on 11/23.
2014-15: Redshirt
Pete's take: Had a very strong finish to last season. Is very athletic and plays really hard!!
Blake Admire (#23)
redshirt freshman
Guard
6 foot 4 190 lbs.
Mobile,Ala. (Spanish Fort High School)
Played point and wing for Spanish Fort High as a senior after attending UMS Wright his first three seasons. Was three time All District and two time All State player. Was First team All Coastal Alabama, two time MVP and four time All Tournament selection. His senior season was the 4A Player Of The Year as his Spanish Fort team won 26 games and had their best run in post-season history. That season he averaged 18 points, eight rebounds, and six assists a game. His junior year at UMS Wright he averaged 21 points- seven assists and three rebounds a game.
2015-16: Redshirt
Bernal commented on Admire's shot:
" Blake is a guard who can shoot it. He is going to have to compete a lot for minutes considering how good this freshman class is."
Pete's take: Going to be hard to crack the rotation with this freshman class. Only way Admire can do it is if he shoots real well.
Daniel Loh (#22)
sophomore
Forward
6 foot 8 220 lbs.
Oviedo,Fla. (Haggerty High School)
2015-16: Played in 17 games for the Tars, scored 29 points and grabbed 32 rebounds for the season. Had his best all around game in a win over Paine. He scored four points- grabbed seven rebounds and had a pair of steals in that one. Had a solid game on 11/18 against Warner when he scored six points. Had five blocks and five steals for the season.
Castaneda commented on his size:
" He is a big defensive presence in the paint."
Beduslkis mentioned the work he put in during the off-season:
"Dan added some strength this off-season, he is a super athletic and quick big man who has a good variety of post moves. To see more minutes he will need to get tougher and be more aggressive."
Pete's take: Loh will see some minutes when the Tars play bigger teams, but he has not worked himself into the rotation yet. May see him and Philpott on the floor at the same time a little bit this season.
Nils Lehmann (#5)
redshirt freshman
6 foot 5 225 lbs.
Kiel, Germany
2015-16: Redshirt
Attended Winter Park High School as a foreign exchange student. Led his team in Germany to the state championship in 2014. Averaged 18 points- 5.5 rebounds- and three rebounds a game as a senior.
Bernal had this to say about Lehmann:
" He is a forward who can rebound and runs the floor well."
When asked what the biggest difference between the game overseas and here in the United States this is what he told me:
" The European game is a lot more structured and team oriented. It doesn't really as much on individual strength and is more tactical. The U.S game is a lot quicker and faster."
Pete's take: Can always use another big man who can get some rebounds. Lehmann could fit this role.
Marcus Camacho (#3)
redshirt sophomore
junior
Guard
6 foot 4 190 lbs.
Winter Spring,Fla. (Winter Springs High School)
2015-16: Sat out the season with an injury
2014-15: Redshirt
Stated sophomore thru senior seasons at Winter Springs and earned four letters. As a senior he averaged 18 points- six rebounds and three assists a game. Was Second Team All District and Second Team All-Area his senior season.
Pete's take: Could contribute if healthy, but injuries have always been an issue.
Out Injured:
Deion Clark (#1)
redshirt junior
Guard/Forward
6 foot 3 200 lbs.
Naples,Fla. (Barron Collier High School)
2015-16: Joined the Tars after transferring from Old Dominion. Had a break out season. He averaged 9.9 points a game and shot 77 percent from the free throw line. Scored in double figures 12 times. Had a career high 22 points against Warner on 11/18. Had a career high 12 rebounds against Florida Tech on 2/13.
2014-15: Played in 20 games for Old Dominion. He scored 15 points in 70 minutes (0.8 ppg.-) shot 33 percent from the field- and- went five of seven at the free throw line for the year. Was 0 for 4 from the 3-point line. Collected 11 rebounds, had two steals and one assists.
2013-14: Redshirt
2012-13: Scored a career high 13 points versus Delaware and 12 versus Murray State. Had three steals in a game versus the College of Charleston. Injured his left knee in game versus George Mason. Returned to play 10 minutes in the final game of the season versus Northeastern.
Bernal commented on his athletic ability amongst other things:
" He is a great teammate and playmaker. Doesn't do anything particularly well, but just makes plays when you need one. A must have on the floor at all times."
Bernal gave Clark the ultimate compliment:
" Deion may be the most underrated player in Rollins history. "
Pete's take: Clark is the "glue guy" for this team and it is very unfortunate that he broke his hand. That is the bad news. The good news is he had successful surgery on the hand. Another redshirt this season is possible. They really miss his IQ and ability to get to the rim.
Zach Ullian (#12)
redshirt sophomore
Guard
6 foot 4 215 lbs.
Indianlantic,Fla. (Holy Trinity High School)
2015-16: Saw action in 11 games scoring 17 points. Went 4 of 6 from the floor and 2 of 4 from the 3-point line. Was a solid 7 of 8 at the free throw line. Scored five points and grabbed a rebound in win over Clark-Atlanta on 11/14
2014-15: Redshirt
Was a three year letter winner for Holy Trinity High School. Won the 2014 District Championship, and was in the regional finals both his junior and senior year. Was a 47 percent career 3-point shooter. Scored a career high 38 points versus Father Lopez. Set the school record in that one with seven 3-pointer's made.
Bernal on Ullian:
" A very good shooter who may get some minutes off the bench."
Pete's take: As long as his shot is falling Ullian should play a few minutes a game when healthy. When/if his shot goes cold is when he could lose minutes. First he has to get healthy enough to get in the rotation though. He is out indefinelty.
Redshirts:
Christian Munson (#35)
freshman
Forward
6 foot 6 205 lbs.
Carmel,Indiana
Led Guerin Catholic in Carmel,Indiana to the 2014 sectional and regional championship. In 2015 they won the state championship. He averaged 22.4 points a game. This while scoring over 1,000 points in his high school career.
Pete's take: Very limited knowledge on this guy, but he had a solid high school career.
Parker Davis (#13)
freshman
Guard
6 foot 1 175 lbs.
Windermere,Fla. (Windermere Prep.)
Led Windermere to the 3A State Championship in 2016. Was Second Team All State and First Team All Area. Was the 2016 Class 3A Player of The Year.
Bernal really likes his game:
" Parker is a point guard who is real aggressive and finishes well. He and Jakobi will be two of the three best guards in the conference two years from now."
Pete's take: Could be the heir apparent to James Ferrell. Very solid future for him.
Saturday, December 3, 2016
Eckerd Knocks Off Rollins Saturday.
After collaborating for a couple of days Tom Klusman, Brad Ash and Kyle Frakes decided that maybe a line up shake up would do some good for the Rollins Tars after the thrashing that they took on Wednesday at the Clemente Center. Unfortunately they did not get the answers they were looking for in a 82-73 loss to Eckerd at Warden Arena.
With the loss Rollins fell to 5-3 on the season and 1-2 in the SSC. The Tars had four players score in double figures in defeat. Sam Philpott responded to his first start of the season with 20 points- fellow big man Mike Bedulskis also responded as he come off the bench for the first time this season and scored 13. Connor Mckim added 13, as he and fellow freshman Jakobi Bonner were the starting backcourt. Jeff Merton remained in the starting lineup but scored six points under his average on the season with 10. Jack Fleming also got a start but managed just five points. The Tars shot 54 percent from the field and went 7-16 (44 percent) from the 3-point line. They shot at a 70 percent clip (14-20) at the free throw line. The Tars had 20 assists and 19 turnovers.
Eckerd improved to 7-2 on the season and 2-1 in the SSC with a sixth straight victory. The Tritons had five players score in double figures. Kevin Walsh led the way with five 3-pointer's en route to his 17 points- Trevon Young scored 15 points and grabbed six rebounds- Drushaun McLaurn and Blake Morrow provided 13 points each- while Obi Kyei had 12. The Tritons shot 52 percent from the field- they went 7-20 (35 percent) from the 3-point line. At the free throw line they went 23-30 (77 percent.) The Tritons edged Rollins on the boards 28-27. They had 18 assists and 17 turnovers.
The game began with neither team finding the score book until a McKim 3-pointer at the 18:09 mark of the opening half. The contest would back and forth for the next several minutes and would be knotted at 19 at the 8:06 mark. That would begin what would be a 10-0 Eckerd run to give them a eight point lead (27-19) at the 5:29 mark of the opening half after a Morrow free throw. The Tars would battle back though and would trail by one (34-33) at the half.
The Tars would get off to a good start in the second half and take a three point lead (42-39) after a Philpott bucket with 16:58 to go. Once again the Tritons would respond though. This time it would be a 7-0 Eckerd run that would give them a four point lead (46-42) at the 16 minute mark. The Tars would get to within a pair a couple of times but could not tie or take the lead. The Tars would be within three (67-64) at the 3:49 mark. Then a Young bucket would stretch it to five, before Merton buried a 3-pointer to cut it to two (69-67) with 2:38 to go. On the ensuing possession Walsh would nail a 3-pointer to give Eckerd a five point lead with 2:12 remaining. The Tars would battle but could not get the defensive stops and rebounds they needed to secure the victory.
Rollins will take a six day break for Final Exams this week and will be back in action Friday when they welcome Warner to Warden Arena. Tip time is set for 530 PM. You can catch all the action on the Geico Tars Sports Network at RollinsSports.com and on 91.5 FM WPRK
Other SSC scores:
Saint Leo 99 Barry 93
Florida Tech 98 Nova Southeastern 90
Tampa 107 Embry--Riddle 91
Florida Southern 124 Palm Beach Atlantic 95
SSC Standings:
Barry 3-1 (6-1)
Florida Tech 3-1 (7-3)
ECKERD 2-1 (7-2)
Florida Southern 2-1 (3-6)
Tampa 1-1 (6-3_)
Saint Leo 1-1 (4-4)
Rollins 1-2 (5-3)
Nova Southeastern 1-3 (2-4)
Lynn 0-3 (2-4)
With the loss Rollins fell to 5-3 on the season and 1-2 in the SSC. The Tars had four players score in double figures in defeat. Sam Philpott responded to his first start of the season with 20 points- fellow big man Mike Bedulskis also responded as he come off the bench for the first time this season and scored 13. Connor Mckim added 13, as he and fellow freshman Jakobi Bonner were the starting backcourt. Jeff Merton remained in the starting lineup but scored six points under his average on the season with 10. Jack Fleming also got a start but managed just five points. The Tars shot 54 percent from the field and went 7-16 (44 percent) from the 3-point line. They shot at a 70 percent clip (14-20) at the free throw line. The Tars had 20 assists and 19 turnovers.
Eckerd improved to 7-2 on the season and 2-1 in the SSC with a sixth straight victory. The Tritons had five players score in double figures. Kevin Walsh led the way with five 3-pointer's en route to his 17 points- Trevon Young scored 15 points and grabbed six rebounds- Drushaun McLaurn and Blake Morrow provided 13 points each- while Obi Kyei had 12. The Tritons shot 52 percent from the field- they went 7-20 (35 percent) from the 3-point line. At the free throw line they went 23-30 (77 percent.) The Tritons edged Rollins on the boards 28-27. They had 18 assists and 17 turnovers.
The game began with neither team finding the score book until a McKim 3-pointer at the 18:09 mark of the opening half. The contest would back and forth for the next several minutes and would be knotted at 19 at the 8:06 mark. That would begin what would be a 10-0 Eckerd run to give them a eight point lead (27-19) at the 5:29 mark of the opening half after a Morrow free throw. The Tars would battle back though and would trail by one (34-33) at the half.
The Tars would get off to a good start in the second half and take a three point lead (42-39) after a Philpott bucket with 16:58 to go. Once again the Tritons would respond though. This time it would be a 7-0 Eckerd run that would give them a four point lead (46-42) at the 16 minute mark. The Tars would get to within a pair a couple of times but could not tie or take the lead. The Tars would be within three (67-64) at the 3:49 mark. Then a Young bucket would stretch it to five, before Merton buried a 3-pointer to cut it to two (69-67) with 2:38 to go. On the ensuing possession Walsh would nail a 3-pointer to give Eckerd a five point lead with 2:12 remaining. The Tars would battle but could not get the defensive stops and rebounds they needed to secure the victory.
Rollins will take a six day break for Final Exams this week and will be back in action Friday when they welcome Warner to Warden Arena. Tip time is set for 530 PM. You can catch all the action on the Geico Tars Sports Network at RollinsSports.com and on 91.5 FM WPRK
Other SSC scores:
Saint Leo 99 Barry 93
Florida Tech 98 Nova Southeastern 90
Tampa 107 Embry--Riddle 91
Florida Southern 124 Palm Beach Atlantic 95
SSC Standings:
Barry 3-1 (6-1)
Florida Tech 3-1 (7-3)
ECKERD 2-1 (7-2)
Florida Southern 2-1 (3-6)
Tampa 1-1 (6-3_)
Saint Leo 1-1 (4-4)
Rollins 1-2 (5-3)
Nova Southeastern 1-3 (2-4)
Lynn 0-3 (2-4)
Friday, December 2, 2016
Rollins-Eckerd Battle In SSC Clash Saturday.
The Rollins Tars and Eckerd College Tritons will do battle Saturday at Warden Arena inside the Alfond Sports Center. As always you can catch the game on the Geico Tars Sports Network at RollinsSports.com and locally on 91.5 FM WPRK. Jim "Shooter" Ferro and Robert Siegel will have the call.
Rollins (5-2 1-1 SSC) comes into the contest off of a uninspired performance in a 90-75 loss at Florida Tech on Wednesday night. The Tars were led by 20 points from Jeff Merton- Connor McKim and Joey Galvis each had 11 in the loss. The two areas the Tars will have to clean up to get back in the win column. They have given up 90+ points now in three straight games. The last time out they were crushed 47-29 on the glass. Rebounding has been an achilies heel in the first seven contests. The loss last time out snapped a four game Rollins win streak. In three of those four games they eclipsed the century mark in points scored.
Jeff Merton leads the Tars at 16.1 points a night- he also leads the team in rebounding at 5.6 a contest. Sam Philpott is off to another strong start. Philpott has provided a spark off the Rollins bench scoring 14.1 points a game. He is fourth in the SSC in field goal percentage, shooting at a 57 percent clip. Jack Fleming has been solid since missing the first three games due to injury. Fleming comes into Saturday averaging 11.3 points a night. The Tars come into the game averaging 88.3 points a game on the season.
Eckerd (6-2 1-2 SSC) comes in riding a five game win streak. The Tritons are second in the SSC in scoring margin, winning by an average of 11.9 points a game. The Tritons have the top defense in the SSC, giving up 70.8 points per game. Drushaun McLaurn is Eckerd's leading scorer at 13.9 points a game- he also grabs 6.6 rebounds a night. Kevin Walsh has been a lethal 3-point shooter and averages 11.9 points a game. He is second in the SSC averaging nearly two 3-pointer's per contest. Trevon Young (10.8 ppg) and Blake Morrow (10.1 ppg) also average in double figures. The Tritons have dominated the glass, where they have out rebounded opponents by 11 boards a game.
The two teams split a pair of meetings a year ago and the contests between the two seem to always go down to the wire.
The lines presented by JuanBernalSportsBooks.com:
Pick
Other SSC lines:
Embry Riddle -3 @Tampa
Barry -8 vs Saint Leo
Nova Southeastern -3 vs Florida Tech
Palm Beach Atlantic -7 vs Florida Southern
SSC Standings:
Barry 3-0 (6-0)
Florida Tech 2-1 (6-3)
Eckerd 1-1 (6-2)
Rollins 1-1 (5-2)
Tampa 1-1 (5-3)
Florida Southern 1-1 (2-6)
Nova Southeastern 1-2 (2-3)
Saint Leo 0-1 (3-4)
Lynn 0-3 (2-4)
Rollins (5-2 1-1 SSC) comes into the contest off of a uninspired performance in a 90-75 loss at Florida Tech on Wednesday night. The Tars were led by 20 points from Jeff Merton- Connor McKim and Joey Galvis each had 11 in the loss. The two areas the Tars will have to clean up to get back in the win column. They have given up 90+ points now in three straight games. The last time out they were crushed 47-29 on the glass. Rebounding has been an achilies heel in the first seven contests. The loss last time out snapped a four game Rollins win streak. In three of those four games they eclipsed the century mark in points scored.
Jeff Merton leads the Tars at 16.1 points a night- he also leads the team in rebounding at 5.6 a contest. Sam Philpott is off to another strong start. Philpott has provided a spark off the Rollins bench scoring 14.1 points a game. He is fourth in the SSC in field goal percentage, shooting at a 57 percent clip. Jack Fleming has been solid since missing the first three games due to injury. Fleming comes into Saturday averaging 11.3 points a night. The Tars come into the game averaging 88.3 points a game on the season.
Eckerd (6-2 1-2 SSC) comes in riding a five game win streak. The Tritons are second in the SSC in scoring margin, winning by an average of 11.9 points a game. The Tritons have the top defense in the SSC, giving up 70.8 points per game. Drushaun McLaurn is Eckerd's leading scorer at 13.9 points a game- he also grabs 6.6 rebounds a night. Kevin Walsh has been a lethal 3-point shooter and averages 11.9 points a game. He is second in the SSC averaging nearly two 3-pointer's per contest. Trevon Young (10.8 ppg) and Blake Morrow (10.1 ppg) also average in double figures. The Tritons have dominated the glass, where they have out rebounded opponents by 11 boards a game.
The two teams split a pair of meetings a year ago and the contests between the two seem to always go down to the wire.
The lines presented by JuanBernalSportsBooks.com:
Pick
Other SSC lines:
Embry Riddle -3 @Tampa
Barry -8 vs Saint Leo
Nova Southeastern -3 vs Florida Tech
Palm Beach Atlantic -7 vs Florida Southern
SSC Standings:
Barry 3-0 (6-0)
Florida Tech 2-1 (6-3)
Eckerd 1-1 (6-2)
Rollins 1-1 (5-2)
Tampa 1-1 (5-3)
Florida Southern 1-1 (2-6)
Nova Southeastern 1-2 (2-3)
Saint Leo 0-1 (3-4)
Lynn 0-3 (2-4)
Wednesday, November 30, 2016
Lifeless Tars Thrashed In Melbourne Wednesday.
The Rollins College Tars came into Wednesday with a four game win streak but had definitely showed some signs of weakness in the last couple of contests. Only a trio of 100+ point games could keep the Tars on the winning track. But in this one Wednesday at the Clemente Center after getting off to a quick 8-2 start, everything seemed to go wrong for the visitor's from Winter Park. The 90-75 loss against Florida Tech was the third consecutive game in which the Tars allowed at least 90 points. Also the Tars rebounding woes continued for the season. Every time they seemed to get close enough to get right back into the game the Panthers would get another offensive rebound to "break the Tars backs.
Rollins (5-2 1-1 SSC) had a trio of players in double figures. Jeff Merton scored 20 points on his 21st birthday- while Connor McKim and Joey Galvis each scored 11 in the loss. The coaching staff spent all evening trying to find the right combination of players to spark the Tars but it never happened in a place where they usually have enjoyed a lot of success. The Tars shot 39 percent from the field and 39 percent (12-31) from the 3-point line. Rollins shot 68 percent (13-19) from the free throw line. They had 16 assists and 10 turnovers.
Florida Tech (6-3 2-1 SSC) was paced by 30 points and 16 rebounds from Sam Daniel- Jordan Majors added 24- while Robert Booth would nearly miss a double-double (nine points and 12 rebounds.) The Panthers shot 44 percent from the field in the victory- from the 3-point line it was 37 percent (14-38.) They shot at a 77 percent clip (24-31) at the free throw line. The Panthers crushed Rollins in the rebounding battle 47-29. They had 19 assists and turned the ball over 19 times.
Rollins would jump out to a quick 8-2 lead after a Eric Castenada layup in the early going. FIT would run off the next eight points before Jack Fleming would give the Tars a one point lead (11-10) at the 14:22 mark of the opening half. The Tars would open up a seven point lead (19-12) at the second media timeout after a Merton 3-pointer at the 11:50 mark. The Panthers would then go on a 10-0 run capped by a Majors 3-pointer to regain the lead. Rollins would knot the game at 22 on a Galvis 3-pointer at the 8:09 mark. The Panthers would end the half with a eight point lead (38-30.)
The Tars would open the second half "ice cold" and the Panthers would open up a 17 point lead (52-35.) That lead would grow to as many as 21 points. Rollins would get no closer than 12 the rest of the way. Marcus Camacho would hit a 3-pointer at the 8:19 mark and that is as close as the Tars would get.
Rollins will be back home Saturday when they welcome the Eckerd Tritons to Warden Arena. Tip time is set for 4 PM. You can catch all the action on the Geico Tars Sports Network at RollinsSports.com
Other SSC Scores:
Palm Beach Atlantic 82 Tampa 73
Eckerd 73 Lynn 56
Barry 79 Nova Southeastern 73
Saint Leo 89 Embry Riddle 82
SSC Standings:
Barry 3-0 (6-0)
Florida Tech 2-1 (6-3)
Eckerd 1-1 (6-2)
Rollins 1-1 (5-2)
Tampa 1-1 (5-3)
Florida Southern 1-1 (2-6)
Nova Southeastern 1-2 (2-3)
Saint Leo 0-1 (4-4)
Lynn 0-3 (2-4)
Rollins (5-2 1-1 SSC) had a trio of players in double figures. Jeff Merton scored 20 points on his 21st birthday- while Connor McKim and Joey Galvis each scored 11 in the loss. The coaching staff spent all evening trying to find the right combination of players to spark the Tars but it never happened in a place where they usually have enjoyed a lot of success. The Tars shot 39 percent from the field and 39 percent (12-31) from the 3-point line. Rollins shot 68 percent (13-19) from the free throw line. They had 16 assists and 10 turnovers.
Florida Tech (6-3 2-1 SSC) was paced by 30 points and 16 rebounds from Sam Daniel- Jordan Majors added 24- while Robert Booth would nearly miss a double-double (nine points and 12 rebounds.) The Panthers shot 44 percent from the field in the victory- from the 3-point line it was 37 percent (14-38.) They shot at a 77 percent clip (24-31) at the free throw line. The Panthers crushed Rollins in the rebounding battle 47-29. They had 19 assists and turned the ball over 19 times.
Rollins would jump out to a quick 8-2 lead after a Eric Castenada layup in the early going. FIT would run off the next eight points before Jack Fleming would give the Tars a one point lead (11-10) at the 14:22 mark of the opening half. The Tars would open up a seven point lead (19-12) at the second media timeout after a Merton 3-pointer at the 11:50 mark. The Panthers would then go on a 10-0 run capped by a Majors 3-pointer to regain the lead. Rollins would knot the game at 22 on a Galvis 3-pointer at the 8:09 mark. The Panthers would end the half with a eight point lead (38-30.)
The Tars would open the second half "ice cold" and the Panthers would open up a 17 point lead (52-35.) That lead would grow to as many as 21 points. Rollins would get no closer than 12 the rest of the way. Marcus Camacho would hit a 3-pointer at the 8:19 mark and that is as close as the Tars would get.
Rollins will be back home Saturday when they welcome the Eckerd Tritons to Warden Arena. Tip time is set for 4 PM. You can catch all the action on the Geico Tars Sports Network at RollinsSports.com
Other SSC Scores:
Palm Beach Atlantic 82 Tampa 73
Eckerd 73 Lynn 56
Barry 79 Nova Southeastern 73
Saint Leo 89 Embry Riddle 82
SSC Standings:
Barry 3-0 (6-0)
Florida Tech 2-1 (6-3)
Eckerd 1-1 (6-2)
Rollins 1-1 (5-2)
Tampa 1-1 (5-3)
Florida Southern 1-1 (2-6)
Nova Southeastern 1-2 (2-3)
Saint Leo 0-1 (4-4)
Lynn 0-3 (2-4)
Tuesday, November 29, 2016
Pair Of High Powered Offenses Battle In Melbourne Wednesday.
The Rollins Tars and Florida Tech Panthers will do battle at the Clemente Center in Melbourne on Wednesday night. The Tars come in with a record of 5-1 overall and 1-0 in the SSC. On the other hand the Panthers came in 1-1 in the SSC and 5-3 overall.
Rollins comes into the game after making school history in the last three contest's. For the first time ever the Tars eclipsed the century mark in three consecutive games. The last time out was a hard fought 104-99 win over NAIA Thomas College last week. The Tars come into the contest on Wednesday second in the SSC averaging 90.5 points a game.
Sam Philpott has scored 20+ points in consecutive games and leads the Tars in scoring at 15.8 points a game. Jeff Merton comes into the contest putting up 15.5 a contest- while Jack Fleming who missed the first three games of the season has scored 13 a night since his return. The Tars are ninth in the nation in 3-point shooting, shooting at a 45 percent clip.
Florida Tech also possesses a high powered offense. The Panthers come into the game averaging 88.6 a night which is third in the SSC. Jordan Majors paces the Panthers. He is third in the conference putting up 21.5 a night- Majors scored 35 earlier in the season against Eckerd and is coming off a 27 point performance against William Jewell last time out. Sam Daniel is also off to a big start for the Panthers, Daniel comes in putting up 21.4 a game and leads the team in rebounding at 7.9 per contest. Patrick Anderson has been solid as well. Anderson is putting up 13.6 points a night- and he is leading the nation with 53 assists on the year.
The last meeting between the schools was a 75-72 win for Florida Tech on February 13,2016. The Tars have dominated the series in the past, leading 61-29.
The line presented by JuanBernalSportsBooks.com:
Rollins by 3.5
Other SSC Lines:
Palm Beach Atlantic -7 vs Tampa
Barry -10 vs Nova Southeastern
St.Leo -7 vs Embry-_Riddle
Eckerd -6.5 vs Lynn
Rollins comes into the game after making school history in the last three contest's. For the first time ever the Tars eclipsed the century mark in three consecutive games. The last time out was a hard fought 104-99 win over NAIA Thomas College last week. The Tars come into the contest on Wednesday second in the SSC averaging 90.5 points a game.
Sam Philpott has scored 20+ points in consecutive games and leads the Tars in scoring at 15.8 points a game. Jeff Merton comes into the contest putting up 15.5 a contest- while Jack Fleming who missed the first three games of the season has scored 13 a night since his return. The Tars are ninth in the nation in 3-point shooting, shooting at a 45 percent clip.
Florida Tech also possesses a high powered offense. The Panthers come into the game averaging 88.6 a night which is third in the SSC. Jordan Majors paces the Panthers. He is third in the conference putting up 21.5 a night- Majors scored 35 earlier in the season against Eckerd and is coming off a 27 point performance against William Jewell last time out. Sam Daniel is also off to a big start for the Panthers, Daniel comes in putting up 21.4 a game and leads the team in rebounding at 7.9 per contest. Patrick Anderson has been solid as well. Anderson is putting up 13.6 points a night- and he is leading the nation with 53 assists on the year.
The last meeting between the schools was a 75-72 win for Florida Tech on February 13,2016. The Tars have dominated the series in the past, leading 61-29.
The line presented by JuanBernalSportsBooks.com:
Rollins by 3.5
Other SSC Lines:
Palm Beach Atlantic -7 vs Tampa
Barry -10 vs Nova Southeastern
St.Leo -7 vs Embry-_Riddle
Eckerd -6.5 vs Lynn
Wednesday, November 23, 2016
Tars Make History In Narrow Win Over Night Hawks.
The good news for Tom Klusman and the Rollins College Tars is that they have been scoring at will the last three contests. For the first time in school history Rollins eclipsed the century mark in three consecutive games in their 104-99 win over Thomas College at Warden Arena. The bad news is that the defense has been nonexistent of late.
The Tars(5-1 1-0 SSC) who were playing the first full game of the season without senior Deion Clark (broken wrist) were paced by a big game from Jack Fleming. Fleming who had an injury of his own that caused him to miss the first three games of the season drilled eight 3-pointer's en route to has career high 26 points- Sam Philpott continued to be solid off the bench as he posted 20 points- Joey Galvis scored 12- while Jeff Merton scored 10 points, and also had seven rebounds, five assists and a pair of steals. The Tars shot 59 percent as a team- this included shooting at a 48 percent clip (14-29) from the 3-point line. They shot 78 percent (14-18) at the free throw line. The Tars had 23 assists and 14 turnovers.
Thomas College (From Georgia and of the NAIA) fell to 5-2 on the season. They were paced by Javoris Cooks who had a career day. Cooks nailed 10 3-pointer's en route to his 41 points and also added 10 rebounds. Katrell Myers also had a solid day scoring 25 points in the game. The Night Hawks shot 47 percent as a team- from the 3-point line they shot 41 percent (12-29.) At the free throw line Thomas shot 83 percent (19-23.) The Night Hawks dominated the rebounding battle as they were +11 (40-29) on the glass. They had 16 assists and 12 turnovers.
The game began with both teams trading buckets in the early going. After a Galvis 3-pointer the Tars had a 10-7 lead at the first media timeout. The Tars would run out to a 14 point lead (25-11) as that 3-pointer would spark a 15-4 run. The NightHawks would make a run of their own late in the first half to get to within four (35-31) at the 2:11 mark. The Tars would close the half on a 9-3 run to go up by 10 (44-34.)
The Night Hawks (mainly Cooks) came out red hot in the second half and knotted the game at 52. Cooks drilled four 3-pointer's during the run that knotted the game at the 16:10 mark. Connor McKim drilled a 3-pointer for the Tars to regain the lead, but the Night Hawks would tie the game once again. Fleming would then knock down a pair of 3-pointer's before Cooks nailed another 3-pointer. Myers would give the Night Hawks the lead (62-61) after a bucket at the 13:29 mark. Rollins would then go on a 15-4 run to open up a 11 point lead (76-65.) Thomas would pull to within eight before Fleming would knock down another three. The Tars would open up a 16 point lead (100-84) and make history in the process. For the first time in school history they would eclipse the century mark in three straight games. The NightHawks would make a game of it late as the Tars would not make a field goal from the 4:26 mark until a Galvis layup at the 22 second mark. The Tars would prevail.
Rollins will take a week off and be back in action on November 30th when they head to the Clemente Center to battle Florida Tech. As always you can catch all the action on the Geico Tars Sports Network on 91.5 FM WPRK and worldwide at RollinsSports.com
The Tars(5-1 1-0 SSC) who were playing the first full game of the season without senior Deion Clark (broken wrist) were paced by a big game from Jack Fleming. Fleming who had an injury of his own that caused him to miss the first three games of the season drilled eight 3-pointer's en route to has career high 26 points- Sam Philpott continued to be solid off the bench as he posted 20 points- Joey Galvis scored 12- while Jeff Merton scored 10 points, and also had seven rebounds, five assists and a pair of steals. The Tars shot 59 percent as a team- this included shooting at a 48 percent clip (14-29) from the 3-point line. They shot 78 percent (14-18) at the free throw line. The Tars had 23 assists and 14 turnovers.
Thomas College (From Georgia and of the NAIA) fell to 5-2 on the season. They were paced by Javoris Cooks who had a career day. Cooks nailed 10 3-pointer's en route to his 41 points and also added 10 rebounds. Katrell Myers also had a solid day scoring 25 points in the game. The Night Hawks shot 47 percent as a team- from the 3-point line they shot 41 percent (12-29.) At the free throw line Thomas shot 83 percent (19-23.) The Night Hawks dominated the rebounding battle as they were +11 (40-29) on the glass. They had 16 assists and 12 turnovers.
The game began with both teams trading buckets in the early going. After a Galvis 3-pointer the Tars had a 10-7 lead at the first media timeout. The Tars would run out to a 14 point lead (25-11) as that 3-pointer would spark a 15-4 run. The NightHawks would make a run of their own late in the first half to get to within four (35-31) at the 2:11 mark. The Tars would close the half on a 9-3 run to go up by 10 (44-34.)
The Night Hawks (mainly Cooks) came out red hot in the second half and knotted the game at 52. Cooks drilled four 3-pointer's during the run that knotted the game at the 16:10 mark. Connor McKim drilled a 3-pointer for the Tars to regain the lead, but the Night Hawks would tie the game once again. Fleming would then knock down a pair of 3-pointer's before Cooks nailed another 3-pointer. Myers would give the Night Hawks the lead (62-61) after a bucket at the 13:29 mark. Rollins would then go on a 15-4 run to open up a 11 point lead (76-65.) Thomas would pull to within eight before Fleming would knock down another three. The Tars would open up a 16 point lead (100-84) and make history in the process. For the first time in school history they would eclipse the century mark in three straight games. The NightHawks would make a game of it late as the Tars would not make a field goal from the 4:26 mark until a Galvis layup at the 22 second mark. The Tars would prevail.
Rollins will take a week off and be back in action on November 30th when they head to the Clemente Center to battle Florida Tech. As always you can catch all the action on the Geico Tars Sports Network on 91.5 FM WPRK and worldwide at RollinsSports.com
Tuesday, November 22, 2016
Rollins Battles Thomas Wednesday.
The Rollins Tars welcome the Night Hawks from Thomas College for a Wednesday matinee. The Tars come into the game on a three game win streak and 4-1 on the season, The Nighthawks of the NAIA come in with a 5-1 record. They most recently beat Ave Maria 71-66 on Saturday.
The Tars (4-1 1-0 SSC) come into the game on a three game win streak where they have averaged 99 points per contest. As always you can catch the game on the Geico Sports Network on 91.5 FM WPRK and worldwide on RollinsSports.com. Jim" Shooter" Ferro and Robert Siegel will have the call, with pre and postgame shows from Juan Bernal and Austin David. The last time out Rollins was a 102-91 winner over Florida Southern. Jeff Merton leads the Tars at 16.6 points and 5.2 rebounds a night- Merton is second in the conference shooting at a 52 percent clip (17-33) from the 3-point line. Sam Philpott scored 21 last time out against Southern and is averaging 15 points per night- Joey Galvis, Connor Mckim and Deion Clark are each putting up 8.6 per game. McKim is leading the team in assists at 4.2 a contest.
The NightHawks are paced by Javoris Crooks at 20.5 per night- he also grabs 4.5 rebounds a night. Jalen Bonds scores 14.5 points and grabs nine rebounds a night- Travel Gresham is scoring 13 points per contest- and- Katrell Myers scores 11 points and grabs 6.8 rebounds per night.
It will be the first meeting all time between Rollins and Thomas. The Tars have eclipsed the century mark in consecutive games for the fifth time in program history. The Tars have never eclipsed the century mark in three straight games.
The line presented by JuanBernalSportsbooks.com: Rollins by 18.5
The Tars will be off the rest of the week. The next game for Rollins will be on November 30th when they play Florida Tech. The 7:30 tip will be at the Clemente Center. You can catch all the action on 91.5 FM WPRK and worldwide on RollinsSports.com
The Tars (4-1 1-0 SSC) come into the game on a three game win streak where they have averaged 99 points per contest. As always you can catch the game on the Geico Sports Network on 91.5 FM WPRK and worldwide on RollinsSports.com. Jim" Shooter" Ferro and Robert Siegel will have the call, with pre and postgame shows from Juan Bernal and Austin David. The last time out Rollins was a 102-91 winner over Florida Southern. Jeff Merton leads the Tars at 16.6 points and 5.2 rebounds a night- Merton is second in the conference shooting at a 52 percent clip (17-33) from the 3-point line. Sam Philpott scored 21 last time out against Southern and is averaging 15 points per night- Joey Galvis, Connor Mckim and Deion Clark are each putting up 8.6 per game. McKim is leading the team in assists at 4.2 a contest.
The NightHawks are paced by Javoris Crooks at 20.5 per night- he also grabs 4.5 rebounds a night. Jalen Bonds scores 14.5 points and grabs nine rebounds a night- Travel Gresham is scoring 13 points per contest- and- Katrell Myers scores 11 points and grabs 6.8 rebounds per night.
It will be the first meeting all time between Rollins and Thomas. The Tars have eclipsed the century mark in consecutive games for the fifth time in program history. The Tars have never eclipsed the century mark in three straight games.
The line presented by JuanBernalSportsbooks.com: Rollins by 18.5
The Tars will be off the rest of the week. The next game for Rollins will be on November 30th when they play Florida Tech. The 7:30 tip will be at the Clemente Center. You can catch all the action on 91.5 FM WPRK and worldwide on RollinsSports.com
Monday, November 21, 2016
Tars Win Conference Opener, Lose Clark.
The Rollins Tars and Florida Southern Moccasins renewed one of the oldest rivalries in college basketball Monday night. Tom Klusman and his coaching staff warned his team that the Mocs 1--4 record coming in was very misleading. The task for the Tars got tougher when Deion Clark hit the floor hard on his arm/wrist and he would not return. The Tars would prevail 102-91 over the Mocs in this one. It was the third consecutive win for Rollins in a series that has been owned by the Mocs in the past. It was the conference opener for the defending tri- champs.
Rollins (4-1 1-0 SSC) had five players score in double figures in the game. Sam Philpott paced the Tars with 21 points in 26 minutes- Eric Castenada was outstanding coming off the bench after the Clark injury. Castaneda had a career high 19 points- picked up five steals and dished out four assists. Jeff Merton scored 15 of his 17 points in the first half- Connor McKim would add career highs in points (16) and assists (7.) Jack Fleming would round out the double digit scorers with 10 points in his 14 minutes of action. Rollins shot a sizzling 54 percent as a team- they were even better from the 3-point line where they shot 58 percent (11-19-) from the free throw line the Tars were outstanding, shooting 87 percent (27-31.) The Tars had 24 assists and 14 turnovers. The 14 turnovers only cost them nine points.
The Mocs (1-5 1-1 SSC) got a career day from Michael Volovic who drained seven 3-pointers en route to his 32 points- Brett Hanson added 16- while Jack Rauch tallied a double-double (12 points and 12 rebounds.) Tyler Ross added 10 in the losing effort. The Mocs shot 50 percent as a team- they shot 45 percent (13-29) from the 3-point line. The Mocs were solid at the free throw line where they shot 80 percent (16-20.) FSC won the rebounding battle 34-28. They had 19 assists and 21 turnovers. The 21 turnovers cost the Mocs 33 points.
The game started with both teams scorching the nets in the early going. The Mocs would hit six of the first seven shots they attempted. While the Tars would hit five of the first seven shots they attempted. After a pair of Merton free throws the game was knotted at 14 five minutes in. Six minutes into the contest on the drive to the basket Clark hit the floor hard (in the hand, wrist area) and he would not return. The Tars would go on a run though and after a Philpott 3-pointer would open up a 10 point lead (34-24.) The Tars would extend the lead to 16 (44-28) on a layup by Philpott at the 7:24 mark of the half. The Mocs would no go away though, as they would get to within four late in the half before a pic of Castaneda free throws gave Rollins a six point advantage (55-49) at the intermission.
The Tars would come out and play solid basketball in the early stages of the second half. At the 11:37 mark they would have a nine point lead (73-64.) A 9-0 Rollins run would stretch the lead to 11 (79-68.) The Mocs would get as close as seven, but Castaneda and McKim would nail free throws down the stretch to put this one away.
Rollins will have a quick turnaround, as they will play Thomas College (GA) on Wednesday at 2 PM. You can catch the game on the Geico Tars Sports Network at 91.5 FM WPRK and also you can see live video of the contest on RollinsSports.com.
Rollins (4-1 1-0 SSC) had five players score in double figures in the game. Sam Philpott paced the Tars with 21 points in 26 minutes- Eric Castenada was outstanding coming off the bench after the Clark injury. Castaneda had a career high 19 points- picked up five steals and dished out four assists. Jeff Merton scored 15 of his 17 points in the first half- Connor McKim would add career highs in points (16) and assists (7.) Jack Fleming would round out the double digit scorers with 10 points in his 14 minutes of action. Rollins shot a sizzling 54 percent as a team- they were even better from the 3-point line where they shot 58 percent (11-19-) from the free throw line the Tars were outstanding, shooting 87 percent (27-31.) The Tars had 24 assists and 14 turnovers. The 14 turnovers only cost them nine points.
The Mocs (1-5 1-1 SSC) got a career day from Michael Volovic who drained seven 3-pointers en route to his 32 points- Brett Hanson added 16- while Jack Rauch tallied a double-double (12 points and 12 rebounds.) Tyler Ross added 10 in the losing effort. The Mocs shot 50 percent as a team- they shot 45 percent (13-29) from the 3-point line. The Mocs were solid at the free throw line where they shot 80 percent (16-20.) FSC won the rebounding battle 34-28. They had 19 assists and 21 turnovers. The 21 turnovers cost the Mocs 33 points.
The game started with both teams scorching the nets in the early going. The Mocs would hit six of the first seven shots they attempted. While the Tars would hit five of the first seven shots they attempted. After a pair of Merton free throws the game was knotted at 14 five minutes in. Six minutes into the contest on the drive to the basket Clark hit the floor hard (in the hand, wrist area) and he would not return. The Tars would go on a run though and after a Philpott 3-pointer would open up a 10 point lead (34-24.) The Tars would extend the lead to 16 (44-28) on a layup by Philpott at the 7:24 mark of the half. The Mocs would no go away though, as they would get to within four late in the half before a pic of Castaneda free throws gave Rollins a six point advantage (55-49) at the intermission.
The Tars would come out and play solid basketball in the early stages of the second half. At the 11:37 mark they would have a nine point lead (73-64.) A 9-0 Rollins run would stretch the lead to 11 (79-68.) The Mocs would get as close as seven, but Castaneda and McKim would nail free throws down the stretch to put this one away.
Rollins will have a quick turnaround, as they will play Thomas College (GA) on Wednesday at 2 PM. You can catch the game on the Geico Tars Sports Network at 91.5 FM WPRK and also you can see live video of the contest on RollinsSports.com.
Sunday, November 20, 2016
Rollins Welcomes FSC To Winter Park For SSC Opener Monday.
The Rollins Tars welcome the Florida Southern College Moccasins to Warden Arena in Winter Park on Monday night for a 7:30 PM tip. As always you can listen live on 91.5 FM WPRK Winter Park and worldwide on RollinsSports.com. You can also watch the live video from Warden Arena.
Rollins (3-1) comes in fresh off a 104-79 thrashing of Puerto Rico Mayaguez on Friday afternoon. This after a win over Embry-Riddle in Daytona Beach earlier in the week. The Tars opened the season by splitting a pair of games in the SSC/SIAC crossover in Atlanta. They knocked off Clark-Atlanta in the opener, before falling to Morehouse.
The Tars will look to defend the SSC title that they shared a season ago beginning with the conference opener Monday night. They are led by Jeff Merton who is seventh in conference and leads the team in scoring at 16.5 points a game- He is shooting 50 percent (15-30) from the 3-point line in the early season- Sam Philpott is not far behind averaging 13.5 points a contest- while Deion Clark is scoring 10.3 points, grabbing five rebounds and dishing out four assists per night.
The Mocs (1-4 1-0 SSC) defeated Saint Leo for the only win they have picked up thus far this season. Over the weekend they lost to Southern Indiana (108-94) and were thrashed 97-61 by #3 Bellarmine. In the two other losses they suffered they were defeated by Delta State and West Alabama in the SSC/GSC Challenge. The Mocs are led by LaBrian Shiflet who scores 15.8 a game. Jeremiah Davis has been solid thus far this season averaging 15.6 points, five rebounds and 3.2 assists per contest. Brett Hanson nets 12.4 a night and Michael Volovic is scoring 11 a game.
Rollins has played Southern more than any other opponent in the SSC. All time the Mocs hold a 118-56 advantage in the series. A season ago the Tars swept the season series. The last game in Winter Park between the two was a 88-75 Tars victory. The Tars are second in the SSC on defense allowing 75 points a game. At the offensive end they are fourth in the conference putting up 84.3 points a night. FSC has a high powered offense scoring 87.8 points a game, but struggles on the defensive end where they give up 78.2 a contest.
The line presented by JuanBernalSportsBooks.com: Rollins by 12
Rollins (3-1) comes in fresh off a 104-79 thrashing of Puerto Rico Mayaguez on Friday afternoon. This after a win over Embry-Riddle in Daytona Beach earlier in the week. The Tars opened the season by splitting a pair of games in the SSC/SIAC crossover in Atlanta. They knocked off Clark-Atlanta in the opener, before falling to Morehouse.
The Tars will look to defend the SSC title that they shared a season ago beginning with the conference opener Monday night. They are led by Jeff Merton who is seventh in conference and leads the team in scoring at 16.5 points a game- He is shooting 50 percent (15-30) from the 3-point line in the early season- Sam Philpott is not far behind averaging 13.5 points a contest- while Deion Clark is scoring 10.3 points, grabbing five rebounds and dishing out four assists per night.
The Mocs (1-4 1-0 SSC) defeated Saint Leo for the only win they have picked up thus far this season. Over the weekend they lost to Southern Indiana (108-94) and were thrashed 97-61 by #3 Bellarmine. In the two other losses they suffered they were defeated by Delta State and West Alabama in the SSC/GSC Challenge. The Mocs are led by LaBrian Shiflet who scores 15.8 a game. Jeremiah Davis has been solid thus far this season averaging 15.6 points, five rebounds and 3.2 assists per contest. Brett Hanson nets 12.4 a night and Michael Volovic is scoring 11 a game.
Rollins has played Southern more than any other opponent in the SSC. All time the Mocs hold a 118-56 advantage in the series. A season ago the Tars swept the season series. The last game in Winter Park between the two was a 88-75 Tars victory. The Tars are second in the SSC on defense allowing 75 points a game. At the offensive end they are fourth in the conference putting up 84.3 points a night. FSC has a high powered offense scoring 87.8 points a game, but struggles on the defensive end where they give up 78.2 a contest.
The line presented by JuanBernalSportsBooks.com: Rollins by 12
Friday, November 18, 2016
Rollins Rolls Past Mayaguez.
The Rollins Tars improved to 3-1 on the season Friday, as they rolled past the Tarzans of Puerto Rico Mayaguez 104-79 in the home opener at Warden Arena. The Tarzans dropped to 0-5 on the season.
Jakobi Bonner and Jeff Merton paced the Tars with 16 points each- Joey Galvis added 15- and Deion Clark chipped in 13. Every Rollins player who saw action Friday scored at least three points. The Tars shot 63 percent from the field as a team. They also shot very well from the 3-point line where they shot 52 percent (13-24-) and the free throw line where they shot 82 percent (27-33.) The Tars edged the Tarzans on the boards 35-29. Rollins had 25 assists and 18 turnovers.
Mayaguez was led by 18 points a piece from Francisco and Luis Lopez- Alexis Parilla added 11 points- while Alexander Curet netted 10. The Tarzans shot 40 percent from the field in defeat- they shot at a 30 percent clip (7-23) from the 3-point line- at the free throw line they shot 67 percent (26-39.) They had 14 assists and 12 turnovers.
The Tarzans would score the game's first four point before Clark would get the Tars on the board at the 17:46 mark of the opening half. Rollins would take their first lead of the game on a Connor McKim 3-pointer at the 15:47 mark of the half. The Tars would extend the lead in the next several minutes and would cap a 16-4 spurt with a another Clark basket that would make it 32-16 at the 5:57 mark of the opening half. The lead would be 27 (56-29) at the intermission.
The second half would be much like the first was. The Tars would get what would be the biggest lead they would have all night at 33 points (76-43) at the 12:44 mark. They would cruise the rest of the way. 18 would be as close as the Tarzans would get.
Rollins will be back in action on Monday when they open the conference schedule, as they rekindle the rivalry with Florida Southern. Tip time at Warden Arena is set for 7 PM. You can catch all the action on the Geico Sports Network on 91.5 FM WPRK and worldwide at RollinsSports.com
Jakobi Bonner and Jeff Merton paced the Tars with 16 points each- Joey Galvis added 15- and Deion Clark chipped in 13. Every Rollins player who saw action Friday scored at least three points. The Tars shot 63 percent from the field as a team. They also shot very well from the 3-point line where they shot 52 percent (13-24-) and the free throw line where they shot 82 percent (27-33.) The Tars edged the Tarzans on the boards 35-29. Rollins had 25 assists and 18 turnovers.
Mayaguez was led by 18 points a piece from Francisco and Luis Lopez- Alexis Parilla added 11 points- while Alexander Curet netted 10. The Tarzans shot 40 percent from the field in defeat- they shot at a 30 percent clip (7-23) from the 3-point line- at the free throw line they shot 67 percent (26-39.) They had 14 assists and 12 turnovers.
The Tarzans would score the game's first four point before Clark would get the Tars on the board at the 17:46 mark of the opening half. Rollins would take their first lead of the game on a Connor McKim 3-pointer at the 15:47 mark of the half. The Tars would extend the lead in the next several minutes and would cap a 16-4 spurt with a another Clark basket that would make it 32-16 at the 5:57 mark of the opening half. The lead would be 27 (56-29) at the intermission.
The second half would be much like the first was. The Tars would get what would be the biggest lead they would have all night at 33 points (76-43) at the 12:44 mark. They would cruise the rest of the way. 18 would be as close as the Tarzans would get.
Rollins will be back in action on Monday when they open the conference schedule, as they rekindle the rivalry with Florida Southern. Tip time at Warden Arena is set for 7 PM. You can catch all the action on the Geico Sports Network on 91.5 FM WPRK and worldwide at RollinsSports.com
Thursday, November 17, 2016
Tars Host Tarzans Friday.
The Rollins Tars open their 2016-17 home slate with a Friday matchup with Puerto Rico Mayaguez. The Tars come in with a 2-0 record on the season. On the other hand Mayaguez comes in at 0-4.
Last time out Rollins was a 92-85 winner at Embry-Riddle. This was after the Tars split a pair of games in the SSC/SIAC crossover in Atlanta. Jeff Merton leads the Tars in the early season averaging 16.7 points a contest- Sam Philpott is coming off a career high 22 vs ERAU and is right behind Merton averaging 16 a game. The Tars are 11-0 all time against Mayaguez. Last time the two teams met Rollins come out on top 91-83 in Winter Park on November 24 th of last season.
The Tarzans are coming off a tough 68-67 loss to Tampa the last time out. Alexis Parilla is leading the Tarzans at 19.3 a game. Parilla posted a double-double (24 points and 12 rebounds) in the loss to Tampa. He also averages 8.8 points a night. A pair of other Mayaguez players are averaging double figures thus far. Alexander Curret is scoring 15.5 points a night and averages 4.8 assists a contest. Ramon Calderon has been solid as well, averaging 10.5 points and 6.5 rebounds a night.
You can catch all the action on the Geico Tars Sports Network on 91.5 FM WPRK and on RollinsSports.com.
The line presented by JuanBernalSportsbooks.com:
Rollins by 17
Last time out Rollins was a 92-85 winner at Embry-Riddle. This was after the Tars split a pair of games in the SSC/SIAC crossover in Atlanta. Jeff Merton leads the Tars in the early season averaging 16.7 points a contest- Sam Philpott is coming off a career high 22 vs ERAU and is right behind Merton averaging 16 a game. The Tars are 11-0 all time against Mayaguez. Last time the two teams met Rollins come out on top 91-83 in Winter Park on November 24 th of last season.
The Tarzans are coming off a tough 68-67 loss to Tampa the last time out. Alexis Parilla is leading the Tarzans at 19.3 a game. Parilla posted a double-double (24 points and 12 rebounds) in the loss to Tampa. He also averages 8.8 points a night. A pair of other Mayaguez players are averaging double figures thus far. Alexander Curret is scoring 15.5 points a night and averages 4.8 assists a contest. Ramon Calderon has been solid as well, averaging 10.5 points and 6.5 rebounds a night.
You can catch all the action on the Geico Tars Sports Network on 91.5 FM WPRK and on RollinsSports.com.
The line presented by JuanBernalSportsbooks.com:
Rollins by 17
Wednesday, November 16, 2016
Rollins Outlasts ERAU.
The Rollins Tars bounced back from a rare early season loss over the weekend, and picked up a 92-85 win over a short handed Embry Riddle team Wednesday night in front of a packed house at the ICI Center. The Eagles only dressed nine players and seven saw a majority of the action. The Tars on the other hand, after losing to Morehouse in Atlanta playing just eight players went the other direction of ERAU. All 12 Tars who were available to play saw action Wednesday evening.
Rollins (2-1) was paced by Sam Philpott who scored 18 of his team high 22 points in the second half- Eric Castaneda came off the bench and scored 18 points, including going 12 of 14 at the free throw line (all in the second stanza.) Jeff Merton nailed four 3-pointer's en route to his 16 points- while Deion Clark rounded out the double digit scorers with 11 points. The Tars shot 49 percent as a team in the victory. They shot 35 percent (6-17) from the 3-point line. At the free throw line the Tars shot 76 percent (22-29.) They had 21 assists and 11 turnovers.
The Eagles fell to 2-1 on the season with the loss. They played without Florida transfer Dillon Graham (sick.) and also are dealing with a couple of crucial injuries. Dalton Barnes led ERAU with 26 points to go along with 15 rebounds- Skyler Hogan added 18 points to go with his 13 boards- Shaquan McArthur chipped in 15- while Brian Johnson netted 13. The Eagles shot 39 percent as a team- they struggled from the 3-point line where they shot 26 percent (11-43-) and the free throw line where they shot 67 percent (14-21.) The Eagles crushed Rollins in the rebounding battle 52-37. They had 17 assists and 17 turnovers.
The Eagles scored the first bucket of the game, before the Tars would tally the next five. The Rollins lead would grow to six (17-11) at the 11:21 mark of the opening half. The Eagles would respond with a 8-0 run of their own to take the slim 19-17 lead at the 10:05 mark of the opening half. The next three minutes would see three ties, before a Merton 3-pointer would give the Tars a 27-24 lead at the 6:02 mark of the half. The team's would trade baskets the rest of the first half. A Castaneda deep 3-pointer would give Rollins a 34-32 lead, but it was the Eagles who would take a 35-34 lead into the locker room after Bradley Mapes drilled a 3-pointer with six seconds left in the half.
The second half would see the team's trade baskets for the first seven plus minutes. The game would be knotted at 52 with 12:24 to go. The Tars would take the lead for good on a Jakobi Bonner basket at the 12:01 mark. The Tars would start to pull away over the next 5+minutes and would take a 10 point lead (70-60) at the 6:30 mark. Philpott gave the Tars the biggest lead they had on the night at 13 (82-69) at the 3:09 mark. The Eagles would not go quietly, as they would get to within five in the waning seconds but the Tars would seal it at the free throw line.
Rollins will be back in action Friday when they take on Puerto Rico Mayaguez. Tip time at Warden Arena is set for 2 PM.
Other SSC Scores:
Tampa 68 Puerto Rico Mayagüez 67
Florida Southern 97 Saint Leo 87
Barry 94 Lynn 68
Nova Southeastern 76 Palm Beach Atlantic 60
Florida Tech 86 Eckerd 84
Standings:
Barry 1-0 (2-0)
Nova Southeastern 1-0 (1-1)
Florida Tech 1-0 (2-2)
Florida Southern 1-0 (1-2)
Rollins 0-0 (2-1)
Tampa 0-0 (1-2)
Lynn 0-1 (1-1)
Eckerd 0-1 (1-2)
Saint Leo 0-1 (0-3)
Rollins (2-1) was paced by Sam Philpott who scored 18 of his team high 22 points in the second half- Eric Castaneda came off the bench and scored 18 points, including going 12 of 14 at the free throw line (all in the second stanza.) Jeff Merton nailed four 3-pointer's en route to his 16 points- while Deion Clark rounded out the double digit scorers with 11 points. The Tars shot 49 percent as a team in the victory. They shot 35 percent (6-17) from the 3-point line. At the free throw line the Tars shot 76 percent (22-29.) They had 21 assists and 11 turnovers.
The Eagles fell to 2-1 on the season with the loss. They played without Florida transfer Dillon Graham (sick.) and also are dealing with a couple of crucial injuries. Dalton Barnes led ERAU with 26 points to go along with 15 rebounds- Skyler Hogan added 18 points to go with his 13 boards- Shaquan McArthur chipped in 15- while Brian Johnson netted 13. The Eagles shot 39 percent as a team- they struggled from the 3-point line where they shot 26 percent (11-43-) and the free throw line where they shot 67 percent (14-21.) The Eagles crushed Rollins in the rebounding battle 52-37. They had 17 assists and 17 turnovers.
The Eagles scored the first bucket of the game, before the Tars would tally the next five. The Rollins lead would grow to six (17-11) at the 11:21 mark of the opening half. The Eagles would respond with a 8-0 run of their own to take the slim 19-17 lead at the 10:05 mark of the opening half. The next three minutes would see three ties, before a Merton 3-pointer would give the Tars a 27-24 lead at the 6:02 mark of the half. The team's would trade baskets the rest of the first half. A Castaneda deep 3-pointer would give Rollins a 34-32 lead, but it was the Eagles who would take a 35-34 lead into the locker room after Bradley Mapes drilled a 3-pointer with six seconds left in the half.
The second half would see the team's trade baskets for the first seven plus minutes. The game would be knotted at 52 with 12:24 to go. The Tars would take the lead for good on a Jakobi Bonner basket at the 12:01 mark. The Tars would start to pull away over the next 5+minutes and would take a 10 point lead (70-60) at the 6:30 mark. Philpott gave the Tars the biggest lead they had on the night at 13 (82-69) at the 3:09 mark. The Eagles would not go quietly, as they would get to within five in the waning seconds but the Tars would seal it at the free throw line.
Rollins will be back in action Friday when they take on Puerto Rico Mayaguez. Tip time at Warden Arena is set for 2 PM.
Other SSC Scores:
Tampa 68 Puerto Rico Mayagüez 67
Florida Southern 97 Saint Leo 87
Barry 94 Lynn 68
Nova Southeastern 76 Palm Beach Atlantic 60
Florida Tech 86 Eckerd 84
Standings:
Barry 1-0 (2-0)
Nova Southeastern 1-0 (1-1)
Florida Tech 1-0 (2-2)
Florida Southern 1-0 (1-2)
Rollins 0-0 (2-1)
Tampa 0-0 (1-2)
Lynn 0-1 (1-1)
Eckerd 0-1 (1-2)
Saint Leo 0-1 (0-3)
Rollins Travels To Daytona Wednesday.
The Rollins Tars (1-1) head to Daytona Beach for a matchup with Embry-Riddle (2-0) on Wednesday at the ICI Center. The game will tip at 730 PM and can be heard on 91.5 FM WPRK Winter Park and on the web at RollinsSports.com
Rollins started the season splitting a pair of games in the SSC/SIAC crossover in Atlanta. They were a 69-60 winner over Clark-Atlanta, before falling 76-72 to host Morehouse. Jeff Merton leads the Tars in the early going at 17 points and six rebounds a game. Sam Philpott has put up a solid 13 a night, while Joey Galvis is scoring nine a game.
The Eagles come in at 2-0 on the season, they defeated Ave Maria and Puerto Rico Mayaguez. The Eagles are led by Skyler Hogan at 17.5 points a game. Shaquan McArthur also scores 17 a contest- while Dillon Graham scores 14 a night. Dalton Barnes is back and puts up 11.5 points per game.
The line presented by JuanBernalSportsBooks.com:
Rollins by 4.5
Other SSC Lines:
Palm Beach Atlantic -2.5@Nova Southeastern
Tampa -31 vs Puerto Rico Mayagüez
Saint Leo -3.5@Florida Southern
Florida Tech +8.5@Eckerd
Barry -7 vs Lynn
Rollins started the season splitting a pair of games in the SSC/SIAC crossover in Atlanta. They were a 69-60 winner over Clark-Atlanta, before falling 76-72 to host Morehouse. Jeff Merton leads the Tars in the early going at 17 points and six rebounds a game. Sam Philpott has put up a solid 13 a night, while Joey Galvis is scoring nine a game.
The Eagles come in at 2-0 on the season, they defeated Ave Maria and Puerto Rico Mayaguez. The Eagles are led by Skyler Hogan at 17.5 points a game. Shaquan McArthur also scores 17 a contest- while Dillon Graham scores 14 a night. Dalton Barnes is back and puts up 11.5 points per game.
The line presented by JuanBernalSportsBooks.com:
Rollins by 4.5
Other SSC Lines:
Palm Beach Atlantic -2.5@Nova Southeastern
Tampa -31 vs Puerto Rico Mayagüez
Saint Leo -3.5@Florida Southern
Florida Tech +8.5@Eckerd
Barry -7 vs Lynn
Sunday, November 13, 2016
Marroon Tigers Stop Rollins Saturday.
The Morehouse Marron Tigers (2-0) handed the Rollins Tars their first loss of the season 76-72 at the SSC/SIAC crossover Saturday night. With the win by Morehouse, for the first team in the three years of the tournament the SIAC bested the SSC. Florida Tech lost to both Morehouse and Clark-Atlanta-while Rollins split with the two.
Morehouse was paced by a 22 point effort from Duby Maduegbunam- Martravious Little had 17- while Tyrius Walker added 13. The Marroon Tigers shot 48 percent as a team- they shot 36 percent (9-25) from the 3-point line. They shot at a 69 percent clip (11-16) from the free throw line. They had 17 assists and 12 turnovers. Morehouse won the rebounding battle 35-34. They also blocked 10 shots, including six by Omar Alston.
The Tars were led by a trio of players in double figures. Jeff Merton led the way with 21 points- Connor McKim added 13- while Jakobi Bonner netted 11. The Tars shot 43 percent as a team. They shot 43 percent (9-21) from the 3-point line. They were a solid 85 percent (11-13) from the free throw line. The Tars had 16 assists and 15 turnovers.
Both team came out flat to start the game. It was not until a Little 3-pointer that either team would find the basket. After a sluggish start the Tars would erase a early five point deficit on a McKim 3-pointer and a free throw by Eric Castaneda knotted the game at 14 at the 11:01 mark of the opening stanza. After a Morehouse free throw the Tars would get another 3-pointer from McKim that would give them a two point lead (17-15) at the 9:17 mark. The Tars lead would grow to as many as five (25-20) with just under six minutes left in the half. The Tars would lead by three (33-30) a few minutes later but a couple unforced Rollins turnovers led to a 7-0 run by the Marroon Tigers to give them a four point (37-33) halftime lead.
The game turned into a see-saw affair in the second half. It would have five ties and four lead changes in the first 10 minutes of the second half. After trailing by one (52-51) the Tars looked to be in control when they went on a 7-0 run to take a six point lead (58-52) with 9:35 to play. The Marroon Tigers would battle back again though. They would eventually take a three point lead (65-62) after a Madeugbanam 3-pointer at the 3:21 mark. Then the two teams would trade 3-point baskets the next four trips down the court. The Tars looked to be in deep trouble down by seven (75-68) with 1:32 to go, but they would not go down without a fight. Clark and Merton would each hit a pair of free throws and the Tars were within three (75-72) with the ball. They would have a pair of chances to tie it up but Merton would not be able to hit the contested 3-pointer and Morehouse would come up with the victory.
The Tars will be back in action on Wednesday night when they take on Embry-Riddle in Daytona Beach. Tip time is set for 7:30 PM. You can catch all the action on the Geico Tars Sports Network at RollinsSports.com and on 91.5 FM WPRK Winter Park.
Morehouse was paced by a 22 point effort from Duby Maduegbunam- Martravious Little had 17- while Tyrius Walker added 13. The Marroon Tigers shot 48 percent as a team- they shot 36 percent (9-25) from the 3-point line. They shot at a 69 percent clip (11-16) from the free throw line. They had 17 assists and 12 turnovers. Morehouse won the rebounding battle 35-34. They also blocked 10 shots, including six by Omar Alston.
The Tars were led by a trio of players in double figures. Jeff Merton led the way with 21 points- Connor McKim added 13- while Jakobi Bonner netted 11. The Tars shot 43 percent as a team. They shot 43 percent (9-21) from the 3-point line. They were a solid 85 percent (11-13) from the free throw line. The Tars had 16 assists and 15 turnovers.
Both team came out flat to start the game. It was not until a Little 3-pointer that either team would find the basket. After a sluggish start the Tars would erase a early five point deficit on a McKim 3-pointer and a free throw by Eric Castaneda knotted the game at 14 at the 11:01 mark of the opening stanza. After a Morehouse free throw the Tars would get another 3-pointer from McKim that would give them a two point lead (17-15) at the 9:17 mark. The Tars lead would grow to as many as five (25-20) with just under six minutes left in the half. The Tars would lead by three (33-30) a few minutes later but a couple unforced Rollins turnovers led to a 7-0 run by the Marroon Tigers to give them a four point (37-33) halftime lead.
The game turned into a see-saw affair in the second half. It would have five ties and four lead changes in the first 10 minutes of the second half. After trailing by one (52-51) the Tars looked to be in control when they went on a 7-0 run to take a six point lead (58-52) with 9:35 to play. The Marroon Tigers would battle back again though. They would eventually take a three point lead (65-62) after a Madeugbanam 3-pointer at the 3:21 mark. Then the two teams would trade 3-point baskets the next four trips down the court. The Tars looked to be in deep trouble down by seven (75-68) with 1:32 to go, but they would not go down without a fight. Clark and Merton would each hit a pair of free throws and the Tars were within three (75-72) with the ball. They would have a pair of chances to tie it up but Merton would not be able to hit the contested 3-pointer and Morehouse would come up with the victory.
The Tars will be back in action on Wednesday night when they take on Embry-Riddle in Daytona Beach. Tip time is set for 7:30 PM. You can catch all the action on the Geico Tars Sports Network at RollinsSports.com and on 91.5 FM WPRK Winter Park.
Saturday, November 12, 2016
Rollins Battles Host MoreHouse Saturday.
The Rollins Tars(1-0)will continue play in the SSC/SIAC Crossover on Saturday when they play MoreHouse (1-0) at 4:30 PM on Saturday. The Tars were a 69-60 winner in the nightcap on Friday, after Morehouse was a 11-point winner over Florida Tech.
The Tars used a balanced attack to knock off Clark-Atlanta Friday night. After getting off to a sluggish start in the opening half the Tars who trailed by as many as 12 points would rally for the 69-60 victory. Sam Philpott led the Tars with 18 points in the game- Joey Galvis, Deion Clark and Jeff Merton scored 13 points each.
Morehouse is the host school in this year's tournament after Paine was the other SIAC school the previous two seasons. Tyros Walker is the leading returning scorer at 13.7 points per game a season ago. Jordan Wallace scored 19 points in there exhibition loss to Ole Miss. Omar Alston and Martravious Little scored 11 and 10 points respectively in the exhibition game.
Little led the Maroon Tigers in the win Friday night with 18 points- Duby Maduegbaum added 16- Omar Alson and Jordan Wallace had 13 each and Tyrius Walker added 10 in the 79-68 win over Florida Tech Friday night.
The meeting Saturday will be the first ever between the two schools.
As always you can catch all the action on 91.5 FM WPRK Winter Park and Worldwide on RollinSports.com
The line presented by JuanBernalSportsBooks.com:
Rollins by 14.5
The Tars used a balanced attack to knock off Clark-Atlanta Friday night. After getting off to a sluggish start in the opening half the Tars who trailed by as many as 12 points would rally for the 69-60 victory. Sam Philpott led the Tars with 18 points in the game- Joey Galvis, Deion Clark and Jeff Merton scored 13 points each.
Morehouse is the host school in this year's tournament after Paine was the other SIAC school the previous two seasons. Tyros Walker is the leading returning scorer at 13.7 points per game a season ago. Jordan Wallace scored 19 points in there exhibition loss to Ole Miss. Omar Alston and Martravious Little scored 11 and 10 points respectively in the exhibition game.
Little led the Maroon Tigers in the win Friday night with 18 points- Duby Maduegbaum added 16- Omar Alson and Jordan Wallace had 13 each and Tyrius Walker added 10 in the 79-68 win over Florida Tech Friday night.
The meeting Saturday will be the first ever between the two schools.
As always you can catch all the action on 91.5 FM WPRK Winter Park and Worldwide on RollinSports.com
The line presented by JuanBernalSportsBooks.com:
Rollins by 14.5
Tars Shrug Off Slow Start To Rally Past CAU.
The Rollins Tars shrugged off a first half where they shot 28 percent from the field and rallied in the second half for a 69-60 win over Clark-Atlanta in the SSC/SIAC Crossover at Morehouse College on Friday night.
Sam Philpott led four Tars in double figures with 18 points- while Joey Galvis , Jeff Merton and Deion Clark each added 13 points on the night. Clark posted a double-double as he would add 12 rebounds in the game. The Tars shot 39 percent from the field in this one. They shot 30 percent (7-23) from the 3-point line. Free throw shooting was also a struggle where they shot 57 percent (12-21.) The Tars had 14 assists and 19 turnovers.
The Panthers fell to 0-1 on the year after the loss. They were paced by 13 points from Derek Harper- Shamiek Sheppard and Tim Sanders added 12 points each for CAU. The Panthers shot 30 percent from the field- and 19 percent (5-26) from the 3-point line. Foul shooting also hurt the Panthers, as they would shoot 59 percent (17-29.) The Panthers won the rebounding battle 52-42. They had just eight assists, but turned it over 25 times.
Both teams got off to a slow start, before the Tars finally got on the board on a Mike Bedulskis field goal three minutes in. The lead would change hands four times in the opening half, but it would be all CAU most of the way as they would take a nine point lead (36-27) into halftime.
The Panthers would score the first three points of the second half to open up a 12 point lead (39-27.) With 12:42 to go Rollins would trail by 12 (48-36) when the comeback would begin. A 13-3 Rollins run would cut the lead to two, before they would tie the game on a Clark basket at the 7:38 mark (53-53.) Merton would nail a 3-pointer at the 5:15 mark to give the Tars a one point lead (58-57) The rest of the way including the Merton 3-pointer the Tars would end the game on a 14-3 run to post the 69-60 victory.
The Tars will be back in action Saturday at 430 when they take on host Morehouse. Tip time is set for 430 PM. You can catch all the action on the Tars Sports Network at RollinsSports.com and on 91.5 FM WPRK.
Sam Philpott led four Tars in double figures with 18 points- while Joey Galvis , Jeff Merton and Deion Clark each added 13 points on the night. Clark posted a double-double as he would add 12 rebounds in the game. The Tars shot 39 percent from the field in this one. They shot 30 percent (7-23) from the 3-point line. Free throw shooting was also a struggle where they shot 57 percent (12-21.) The Tars had 14 assists and 19 turnovers.
The Panthers fell to 0-1 on the year after the loss. They were paced by 13 points from Derek Harper- Shamiek Sheppard and Tim Sanders added 12 points each for CAU. The Panthers shot 30 percent from the field- and 19 percent (5-26) from the 3-point line. Foul shooting also hurt the Panthers, as they would shoot 59 percent (17-29.) The Panthers won the rebounding battle 52-42. They had just eight assists, but turned it over 25 times.
Both teams got off to a slow start, before the Tars finally got on the board on a Mike Bedulskis field goal three minutes in. The lead would change hands four times in the opening half, but it would be all CAU most of the way as they would take a nine point lead (36-27) into halftime.
The Panthers would score the first three points of the second half to open up a 12 point lead (39-27.) With 12:42 to go Rollins would trail by 12 (48-36) when the comeback would begin. A 13-3 Rollins run would cut the lead to two, before they would tie the game on a Clark basket at the 7:38 mark (53-53.) Merton would nail a 3-pointer at the 5:15 mark to give the Tars a one point lead (58-57) The rest of the way including the Merton 3-pointer the Tars would end the game on a 14-3 run to post the 69-60 victory.
The Tars will be back in action Saturday at 430 when they take on host Morehouse. Tip time is set for 430 PM. You can catch all the action on the Tars Sports Network at RollinsSports.com and on 91.5 FM WPRK.
Friday, November 11, 2016
Tars Head To Atlanta.
The Rollins Tars coming off a solid campaign a season ago open the 2016 season at the SSC/SIAC Crossover in Atlanta Friday.
Rollins was 21-9 a season ago, won a share of the SSC regular season title and earned a bid to the NCAA South Regional. The Tars return five of the top six scorers that they had a season ago. In exhibition play Rollins was a 89-71 winner over Wooster in the only tuneup they had for the regular season.
Clark Atlanta will be the Tars opponent Friday. They are picked fourth in the SIAC East Division.
Rollins will be paced by Jeff Merton who was a first team All SSC member a year ago. Merton put up 15.5 points and 4.6 rebounds a game, and is back for his junior season. Sam Philpott scored 27 in the exhibition contest. He was second on the team averaging 13.1 points per night. Deion Clark averaged nearly 10 points a game, while Mike Bedulskis returns after averaging 7.2 points and 3.8 rebounds a night. Tom Klusman is one of the best coaches in DII and comes into the season with a 653-382 record.
Clark-Atlanta guard Tim Anderson averaged 14 points per game a year ago and was named to the SIAC All Preseason team as a junior. Derek Harper returns after averaging 13.5 points a game last season. Darrell Walker is the new coach for Clark-Atlanta.
As always you can catch all the action on the Tars Sports Network on 91.5 FM WPRK Winter Park and on RollinsSports.com
The line presented by JuanBernalSportsbooks.com:
Rollins by 9.5
Rollins was 21-9 a season ago, won a share of the SSC regular season title and earned a bid to the NCAA South Regional. The Tars return five of the top six scorers that they had a season ago. In exhibition play Rollins was a 89-71 winner over Wooster in the only tuneup they had for the regular season.
Clark Atlanta will be the Tars opponent Friday. They are picked fourth in the SIAC East Division.
Rollins will be paced by Jeff Merton who was a first team All SSC member a year ago. Merton put up 15.5 points and 4.6 rebounds a game, and is back for his junior season. Sam Philpott scored 27 in the exhibition contest. He was second on the team averaging 13.1 points per night. Deion Clark averaged nearly 10 points a game, while Mike Bedulskis returns after averaging 7.2 points and 3.8 rebounds a night. Tom Klusman is one of the best coaches in DII and comes into the season with a 653-382 record.
Clark-Atlanta guard Tim Anderson averaged 14 points per game a year ago and was named to the SIAC All Preseason team as a junior. Derek Harper returns after averaging 13.5 points a game last season. Darrell Walker is the new coach for Clark-Atlanta.
As always you can catch all the action on the Tars Sports Network on 91.5 FM WPRK Winter Park and on RollinsSports.com
The line presented by JuanBernalSportsbooks.com:
Rollins by 9.5
Monday, September 19, 2016
Where Are They Now: A Trip Across The Globe With Matt Robertson
Not many people have the athletic ability and size combination that Matt Robertson does. He started playing basketball when he was four years old. He was a stand out player in both basketball and football at Briarwood Christian High School in Alabama. In college, he started his career at Samford before transferring to Rollins College for the 2008-09 season.
Robertson started 27 games for the Tars that year, averaging 5.6 points a contest. The following season he increased those averages to 7.8 points and 4.8 rebounds a night.
Of the greatest things he learned at Rollins Robertson said this:
" I learned at Rollins to never give yourself more credit than you are due. There is always somebody working harder than you, always somebody studying harder than you, always somebody honing their craft. I only believe in down time when it is scheduled and necessary. Everyone deserves a break, but I took a tremendous work ethic into Rollins and left with an even greater one while adding efficiency.
After Rollins Robertson signed a contract to play basketball overseas. He played for Avila in Spain, Los Pineros in Mexico, and Brujos De Guyama in Puerto Rico. These were his thoughts on those playing experiences:
" The journey playing overseas was awesome. Got to continue to play the game I love at a higher level and made a nice living doing it. I loved the food, the new cultures, and the new places."
On the toughest part of playing overseas:
" The toughest part for me was leaving my family back home and not knowing the future. I was super lucky to live in Cancun, Spain, Puerto Rico and Uruguay, while getting to travel through countless other countries. It was like any other job. Some really cool things and some tough stuff too."
On what he thought the biggest difference was between the game overseas and in the United States:
" The officiating is a lot different. They call a lot more travels and fewer technical fouls. I think that helps the Americans, because it makes the game rougher which Americans are more used to. They pride themselves more on conditioning than shooting (more like soccer players.)
Robertson has retired from basketball and now works in the automotive industry in his hometown of Birmingham, Alabama. He began as service advisor for GMC and Buick. After that, he helped people when they come in to get there cars fixed or had maintenance done to them. He managed each customer's expectations while making sure the mechanics got their work done in a timely manner.
A couple months ago Robertson was promoted to financial advisor at Royal Automotive. He helps put together and finalize all car deals. Both purchased and leased. He also handles extended warranty sales and maintenance packaging.
Robertson is married to Anne and has two children of his own. Colton is 2 and Marissa is now six months old. The Robertsons are very religious people and Matt talks about that when speaking about his wife and kids:
" I try to lead the little ones the way God directs, "he says adding:
I am not going to lie. Being a dad of two can sometimes be challenging, but I would not trade it for the world. Those two little people and my wife Anne are my whole world! Everything I do is for them!"
Anyone who has ever spent more than 30 seconds with Matt knows that he will conquer whatever he desires. He is one of the most easy going people you will ever meet. The other thing that you know about him is he is a big family person.
Robertson started 27 games for the Tars that year, averaging 5.6 points a contest. The following season he increased those averages to 7.8 points and 4.8 rebounds a night.
Of the greatest things he learned at Rollins Robertson said this:
" I learned at Rollins to never give yourself more credit than you are due. There is always somebody working harder than you, always somebody studying harder than you, always somebody honing their craft. I only believe in down time when it is scheduled and necessary. Everyone deserves a break, but I took a tremendous work ethic into Rollins and left with an even greater one while adding efficiency.
After Rollins Robertson signed a contract to play basketball overseas. He played for Avila in Spain, Los Pineros in Mexico, and Brujos De Guyama in Puerto Rico. These were his thoughts on those playing experiences:
" The journey playing overseas was awesome. Got to continue to play the game I love at a higher level and made a nice living doing it. I loved the food, the new cultures, and the new places."
On the toughest part of playing overseas:
" The toughest part for me was leaving my family back home and not knowing the future. I was super lucky to live in Cancun, Spain, Puerto Rico and Uruguay, while getting to travel through countless other countries. It was like any other job. Some really cool things and some tough stuff too."
On what he thought the biggest difference was between the game overseas and in the United States:
" The officiating is a lot different. They call a lot more travels and fewer technical fouls. I think that helps the Americans, because it makes the game rougher which Americans are more used to. They pride themselves more on conditioning than shooting (more like soccer players.)
Robertson has retired from basketball and now works in the automotive industry in his hometown of Birmingham, Alabama. He began as service advisor for GMC and Buick. After that, he helped people when they come in to get there cars fixed or had maintenance done to them. He managed each customer's expectations while making sure the mechanics got their work done in a timely manner.
A couple months ago Robertson was promoted to financial advisor at Royal Automotive. He helps put together and finalize all car deals. Both purchased and leased. He also handles extended warranty sales and maintenance packaging.
Robertson is married to Anne and has two children of his own. Colton is 2 and Marissa is now six months old. The Robertsons are very religious people and Matt talks about that when speaking about his wife and kids:
" I try to lead the little ones the way God directs, "he says adding:
I am not going to lie. Being a dad of two can sometimes be challenging, but I would not trade it for the world. Those two little people and my wife Anne are my whole world! Everything I do is for them!"
Anyone who has ever spent more than 30 seconds with Matt knows that he will conquer whatever he desires. He is one of the most easy going people you will ever meet. The other thing that you know about him is he is a big family person.
Saturday, July 30, 2016
Where Are They Now: Hogan Looks To Cement Own Legacy.
As the 2016 NCAA tournament approached no-one could have seen this coming. Maybe not even Kevin Hogan himself.
The former Rollins College star, who is now an assistant coach at Austin Peay, had a Governors team that went into the Ohio Valley Conference Tournament with a 14-17 record as the #8 seed. To advance to the NCAA tournament they would have to win four games in four days. That was a long shot at best!
But during the next four days something special happened. The Governors who were 7-9 in conference play and finished fourth in the OVC West division went on a magical run. They won the tournament and secured a spot in the NCAA regional where they would face national power and top seed Kansas.
Hogan had this to say about the run:
" It was amazing basketball for the past four days. We had our moments that we needed to clean up but in the end we did just enough to punch that ticket."
In the opening game Austin Peay cruised to a 92-72 victory over Tennessee Tech. In a hard-fought battle in game two they slipped past Tennessee State 74-72. In the third game, in the biggest upset of the tournament and one of the biggest upsets of the year in the college hoops the Governors outlasted top seed Belmont 97-96 in overtime on the Bruins home floor. The Governors were not done yet though. They had one last hurdle to cross in the form of #2 seed Tennessee Martin in the finals. The Governors cruised to a 83-73 victory and set up the showdown with the Jayhawks.
Hogan had this to say about winning the OVC tournament title:
" I was so proud of how hard our team fought and all the adversity that they went thru the whole season. It was a heck of an accomplishment for this group to make it to the NCAA tournament. It tells you a lot about the grit and determination of this team."
This was the highlight of Hogan's brief coaching career and something he can build on in the future.
Hogan started his coaching career as a volunteer at Florida A&M in 2009. He would be there until 2011. After that he would move on to Tallahassee Community College. In Hogan's first season they would go 15-13. In 2012 Hogan would move on to Austin Peay where he would become the Director of Basketball Operations. In the 2012-13 season Hogan would see the Governors more than double the squad's win total from the previous season. They went from six wins to 13 in the 2012-13 season. In the 2013-14 season the Governors would reach the 20 win plateau. After a 10-6 record in conference play the Governors would reach the conference title game for the third time in school history in 2014.
Hogan was born with basketball in his blood. Much of that can be attributed to his dad Don who was a graduate of South Alabama in 1980, and was in coaching for 30+years. Don Hogan resigned from coaching in August 2015 to pursue a job as the Director of Athletics for the Lake Country School District in Florida. He resigned after six years of being associate head coach at Coastal Carolina. Don also coached West Florida from 1993-2009.
Kevin, who is a Milton High School product and Pensacola native had a stellar career as a player at Rollins prior to getting into coaching. Hogan played in 129 games (58 as a starter) in his four years with the Tars. He was a part of three 20-win seasons. In his four years as a player Hogan had a 88-34 record, this included two trips to the South Regional tournament. In 2006 Rollins won both the SSC regular season and tournament titles. They followed that up with a regular season title in 2007. He scored 1295 points in his Rollins career. He was the 34th player in Rollins history to eclipse the 1,000 point mark. He was second in 3-pointer's made (270) and third in school history in 3-point percentage (47 percent.) He was All-Freshman First Team in 2006. In 2007 he made 84 3-pointer's which was good for third in the SSC. His average improved each of his four seasons with the program (the last three being in double figures.) His sophomore season he averaged 10-9 points per game- junior year was 12.8 a night- then his senior season 13.7 a contest.
Hogan talked about how he used a lot of the tactics he learned from his dad and his Rollins coaches did for his players now:
I try to remember when I was a player I did not want to be treated like a robot. I wanted to know why we were doing things when we were doing them. The coaches that grain credibility in my mind are the ones that explain things and when they do they know what they are talking about. I try to teach guys whatever I know whenever I can. The why is so important to getting guys to buy in".
Kevin had this to say about getting to hang with his dad as a coach when he was little and what he learned from it:
" I remember road trips being what I looked forward to the most when I was young. My dad's intensity in practice always stood out to me. I got an appreciation for practice seeing how intense my dad was. It is easy to lose track of what task is most important on any given day but I try to remember how important it is to bring it in practice every day."
On the biggest lesson he learned from his Rollins coaches:
" To me, Tom, Kyle and Brad and the staff built a model that fits there system well. Work smart! Klusman cares about his players as much as any coach I have ever been around. On my visit it was evident when he walked into a room how much he genuinely cared about these guys. And you can tell they genuinely cared about him too. I don't see that often. I appreciated Brad (Coach Ash) shooting us straight. I always believed when he said something- credibility was hard to come by. Kyle (Coach Frakes) kept things fun with a great personality. In coaching, everyone needs someone to encourage them at times and speak on their behalf. Kyle has always been there when I have needed him in that regard."
Hogan had this to say on why he picked Austin Peay:
" It is hard to say in coaching why things happen. For me I pursued the job because of it's reputation as not only a successful program but a clean one."
On if he envisions himself as a DI coach:
For me yes I envision myself as a DI coach but coaching is coaching no matter the level. The biggest draw in DI coaching is it opens up more opportunities for other jobs than at any other level. Hopefully the success of DII coaches of late will start to change that."
On if he ever sees himself as head coach and which of his former teammates he could see doing the same:
" I would love to be a head coach one day. As for my former teammates I could see Jonny Reibel as being a head coach. He has always had good instincts for the game and is a relationship person. He has remained tapped into the recruiting part of the game in Chicago which is a big piece of the puzzle.
Kevin Hogan who is married to Haley has two sons (Graham who is 5 and Brooks who is 2.) Maybe one day they will get to see Kevin score a head coaching job himself. Until then they will enjoy the fun times like they had in Nashville in March.
The former Rollins College star, who is now an assistant coach at Austin Peay, had a Governors team that went into the Ohio Valley Conference Tournament with a 14-17 record as the #8 seed. To advance to the NCAA tournament they would have to win four games in four days. That was a long shot at best!
But during the next four days something special happened. The Governors who were 7-9 in conference play and finished fourth in the OVC West division went on a magical run. They won the tournament and secured a spot in the NCAA regional where they would face national power and top seed Kansas.
Hogan had this to say about the run:
" It was amazing basketball for the past four days. We had our moments that we needed to clean up but in the end we did just enough to punch that ticket."
In the opening game Austin Peay cruised to a 92-72 victory over Tennessee Tech. In a hard-fought battle in game two they slipped past Tennessee State 74-72. In the third game, in the biggest upset of the tournament and one of the biggest upsets of the year in the college hoops the Governors outlasted top seed Belmont 97-96 in overtime on the Bruins home floor. The Governors were not done yet though. They had one last hurdle to cross in the form of #2 seed Tennessee Martin in the finals. The Governors cruised to a 83-73 victory and set up the showdown with the Jayhawks.
Hogan had this to say about winning the OVC tournament title:
" I was so proud of how hard our team fought and all the adversity that they went thru the whole season. It was a heck of an accomplishment for this group to make it to the NCAA tournament. It tells you a lot about the grit and determination of this team."
This was the highlight of Hogan's brief coaching career and something he can build on in the future.
Hogan started his coaching career as a volunteer at Florida A&M in 2009. He would be there until 2011. After that he would move on to Tallahassee Community College. In Hogan's first season they would go 15-13. In 2012 Hogan would move on to Austin Peay where he would become the Director of Basketball Operations. In the 2012-13 season Hogan would see the Governors more than double the squad's win total from the previous season. They went from six wins to 13 in the 2012-13 season. In the 2013-14 season the Governors would reach the 20 win plateau. After a 10-6 record in conference play the Governors would reach the conference title game for the third time in school history in 2014.
Hogan was born with basketball in his blood. Much of that can be attributed to his dad Don who was a graduate of South Alabama in 1980, and was in coaching for 30+years. Don Hogan resigned from coaching in August 2015 to pursue a job as the Director of Athletics for the Lake Country School District in Florida. He resigned after six years of being associate head coach at Coastal Carolina. Don also coached West Florida from 1993-2009.
Kevin, who is a Milton High School product and Pensacola native had a stellar career as a player at Rollins prior to getting into coaching. Hogan played in 129 games (58 as a starter) in his four years with the Tars. He was a part of three 20-win seasons. In his four years as a player Hogan had a 88-34 record, this included two trips to the South Regional tournament. In 2006 Rollins won both the SSC regular season and tournament titles. They followed that up with a regular season title in 2007. He scored 1295 points in his Rollins career. He was the 34th player in Rollins history to eclipse the 1,000 point mark. He was second in 3-pointer's made (270) and third in school history in 3-point percentage (47 percent.) He was All-Freshman First Team in 2006. In 2007 he made 84 3-pointer's which was good for third in the SSC. His average improved each of his four seasons with the program (the last three being in double figures.) His sophomore season he averaged 10-9 points per game- junior year was 12.8 a night- then his senior season 13.7 a contest.
Hogan talked about how he used a lot of the tactics he learned from his dad and his Rollins coaches did for his players now:
I try to remember when I was a player I did not want to be treated like a robot. I wanted to know why we were doing things when we were doing them. The coaches that grain credibility in my mind are the ones that explain things and when they do they know what they are talking about. I try to teach guys whatever I know whenever I can. The why is so important to getting guys to buy in".
Kevin had this to say about getting to hang with his dad as a coach when he was little and what he learned from it:
" I remember road trips being what I looked forward to the most when I was young. My dad's intensity in practice always stood out to me. I got an appreciation for practice seeing how intense my dad was. It is easy to lose track of what task is most important on any given day but I try to remember how important it is to bring it in practice every day."
On the biggest lesson he learned from his Rollins coaches:
" To me, Tom, Kyle and Brad and the staff built a model that fits there system well. Work smart! Klusman cares about his players as much as any coach I have ever been around. On my visit it was evident when he walked into a room how much he genuinely cared about these guys. And you can tell they genuinely cared about him too. I don't see that often. I appreciated Brad (Coach Ash) shooting us straight. I always believed when he said something- credibility was hard to come by. Kyle (Coach Frakes) kept things fun with a great personality. In coaching, everyone needs someone to encourage them at times and speak on their behalf. Kyle has always been there when I have needed him in that regard."
Hogan had this to say on why he picked Austin Peay:
" It is hard to say in coaching why things happen. For me I pursued the job because of it's reputation as not only a successful program but a clean one."
On if he envisions himself as a DI coach:
For me yes I envision myself as a DI coach but coaching is coaching no matter the level. The biggest draw in DI coaching is it opens up more opportunities for other jobs than at any other level. Hopefully the success of DII coaches of late will start to change that."
On if he ever sees himself as head coach and which of his former teammates he could see doing the same:
" I would love to be a head coach one day. As for my former teammates I could see Jonny Reibel as being a head coach. He has always had good instincts for the game and is a relationship person. He has remained tapped into the recruiting part of the game in Chicago which is a big piece of the puzzle.
Kevin Hogan who is married to Haley has two sons (Graham who is 5 and Brooks who is 2.) Maybe one day they will get to see Kevin score a head coaching job himself. Until then they will enjoy the fun times like they had in Nashville in March.
Sunday, March 27, 2016
Augustana Completes Dream Season!
This is the kind of stuff that makes people love college basketball, no matter what the level. The Augustana Vikings season began at Carver Hawkeye Arena with a buzzer beating win over Iowa. Saturday afternoon at Dr.Pepper Arena in Frisco, Texas the Vikings completed the dream season with a 90-81 win over Lincoln Memorial to capture the DII national title. The victory for the Vikings snapped the Railspitters 24 game win streak.
Alex Richter led the Vikings with 26 points in the title game- Daniel Jensen netted 25- while Casey Schilling scored 20. The Vikings shot 46 percent from the field- including 47 percent (7-15) from the 3-point line. The Vikings shot at a 78 percent clip (21-27) at the free throw line. The Vikings out rebounded LMU 42-36. They had 15 assists and 11 turnovers. The Vikings ended the season at 34-2.
The Railspitters were led by 21 points from Gerel Simmons- Jalen Steele and Emmanuel Terry scored 15 each- while Dorian Pinson chipped in 13. LMU shot 47 percent from the field in this one. They went 8 of 22 ( 36 percent) from the 3-point line. The Railsplitters went just 9-18 (50 percent) from the free throw line. They had 14 assists and 11 turnovers. LMU finished the season 34-3.
Alex Richter led the Vikings with 26 points in the title game- Daniel Jensen netted 25- while Casey Schilling scored 20. The Vikings shot 46 percent from the field- including 47 percent (7-15) from the 3-point line. The Vikings shot at a 78 percent clip (21-27) at the free throw line. The Vikings out rebounded LMU 42-36. They had 15 assists and 11 turnovers. The Vikings ended the season at 34-2.
The Railspitters were led by 21 points from Gerel Simmons- Jalen Steele and Emmanuel Terry scored 15 each- while Dorian Pinson chipped in 13. LMU shot 47 percent from the field in this one. They went 8 of 22 ( 36 percent) from the 3-point line. The Railsplitters went just 9-18 (50 percent) from the free throw line. They had 14 assists and 11 turnovers. LMU finished the season 34-3.
Wednesday, March 23, 2016
Ten Things Tars 2015-2016!
After a up and down season that featured plenty of each let's break down the best and worst moment of the Rollins campaign.
The Good:
5. Tars jump out to a 9-0 start. The best start since they began 10-0 in the 2007-08 season.
4. Joey Galvis nails a 3-pointer to cap a thrilling 75-74 win at Nova Southeastern on December 4th. A game the Tars trailed by 13 with less than five minutes to go.
3. Jeff Merton is named to the All-District Second Team and All-SSC First Team.
2. Tom Klusman gets win number 650 on February 17th as the Tars knock off a Barry team that was in the top 10 at the time. Barry would go on to win the South region and advance to the Elite Eight.
1. The Tars complete a huge turn around, going from nine wins in the 2014-15 season to 21 victories in the 2015-16 season. Rollins shares the regular season crown with Barry and Eckerd going 12-4 in conference play.
The Bad:
5. The Tars dropped five of six after a 9-0 start. Rollins was drubbed by Tarleton State and Angelo State in Las Vegas. Tarleton State would also advance to the Elite Eight.
4. Rollins got off to a terrible start in the February 13th contest with Florida Tech. The Tars would fall behind 29-1 on senior day. Only to see themselves fight all the way back, only to lose the game in the waning seconds.
3. The Tars suffered another gut- wrenching loss. This time on January 9th when they fell 77-75 to Saint Leo at the Marion Bowman Activities Center. After having a chance to win it, a long rebound would bounce out to Marcus Dewberry of Saint Leo who would lay in the game winner.
2. After getting off to a quick 2-0 start and with a big lead over Ave Maria the Tars would lose senior Alex Blessig to a dislocated finger. Blessig would never get back to the form he was playing in prior to the injury.
1. As the number three seed and host of the opening round of the conference tournament the Tars would fall 85-72 to a Lynn team they beat twice during the regular season. This loss would hurt the Tars seeding in the South region, as they would fall to the sixth seed and eventually lose to third seeded Barry.
The Good:
5. Tars jump out to a 9-0 start. The best start since they began 10-0 in the 2007-08 season.
4. Joey Galvis nails a 3-pointer to cap a thrilling 75-74 win at Nova Southeastern on December 4th. A game the Tars trailed by 13 with less than five minutes to go.
3. Jeff Merton is named to the All-District Second Team and All-SSC First Team.
2. Tom Klusman gets win number 650 on February 17th as the Tars knock off a Barry team that was in the top 10 at the time. Barry would go on to win the South region and advance to the Elite Eight.
1. The Tars complete a huge turn around, going from nine wins in the 2014-15 season to 21 victories in the 2015-16 season. Rollins shares the regular season crown with Barry and Eckerd going 12-4 in conference play.
The Bad:
5. The Tars dropped five of six after a 9-0 start. Rollins was drubbed by Tarleton State and Angelo State in Las Vegas. Tarleton State would also advance to the Elite Eight.
4. Rollins got off to a terrible start in the February 13th contest with Florida Tech. The Tars would fall behind 29-1 on senior day. Only to see themselves fight all the way back, only to lose the game in the waning seconds.
3. The Tars suffered another gut- wrenching loss. This time on January 9th when they fell 77-75 to Saint Leo at the Marion Bowman Activities Center. After having a chance to win it, a long rebound would bounce out to Marcus Dewberry of Saint Leo who would lay in the game winner.
2. After getting off to a quick 2-0 start and with a big lead over Ave Maria the Tars would lose senior Alex Blessig to a dislocated finger. Blessig would never get back to the form he was playing in prior to the injury.
1. As the number three seed and host of the opening round of the conference tournament the Tars would fall 85-72 to a Lynn team they beat twice during the regular season. This loss would hurt the Tars seeding in the South region, as they would fall to the sixth seed and eventually lose to third seeded Barry.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)