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Welcome to the my Web site, v. XII. The blog is typically published Monday - Saturday. My primary topics tend to be the Nats, Penn State (esp. football), BeltwayLand, transportation, media, photos and more. The rest of the site gets updated as warranted and is noted on the blog.

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Penn State men's basketball dreadful again - William World News

Monday, January 25, 2010

Penn State men's basketball dreadful again

DAVID JONES - Ed DeChellis is not the answer anymore - Patriot-News
One step forward (NIT Championship) three steps back (0 for the conference thus far) for the Penn State Nittany Lions basketball team. They are awful again, and the familiar cycle of one season of respectability followed by less than 10 wins the next, something we saw under Jerry Dunn. Now, Dave Jones thinks head coach Ed DeChellis, someone Jones admires as a person, needs to go if Penn State has any hope of being a solid basketball program. If he stays, that's all you need to know about how serious Penn State is about men's basketball, according to Jones.

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posted by WFY @ 12:46 PM | |

MBB had a fine year last year - but they still didn't make it to the NCAA, because they couldn't win (enough of) the games "you have to win." They have not gotten past where they were under Parkhill - 3.44 billion years ago. Jerry Dunn was an emergency hire that lasted too long and DeChellis was just, well, he's a really nice guy.

This is yet another reason why Joe Paterno needs to live forever.

# posted by Blogger PSUgirl : Monday, January 25, 2010 1:24:00 PM  

0-18 in the Big Ten, here we come!

Didn't they just extend his contract too?

# posted by Anonymous TMBC : Monday, January 25, 2010 7:45:00 PM  

He's signed through 2014

Penn State extends Ed DeChellis as basketball coach

He doesn't make nearly as much as his peers though, so a buyout would not be prohibitively expensive.

# posted by Blogger WFY : Tuesday, January 26, 2010 6:25:00 AM   Post a Comment

More Penn State Women's Volleyball championship coverage - William World News
Sunday, December 20, 2009

More Penn State Women's Volleyball championship coverage

PSU volleyball makes history again (with video) - ESPN
PSU comes from behind to claim third-straight title - The Collegian
Historic rally - CDT
Penn State women win record third straight NCAA volleyball title - AP/Patriot-News
THREE-PEAT! Women's Volleyball Wins Third Straight NCAA Title - Intercollegiate Athletics
Senior Megan Hodge (Durham, N.C.) led the Nittany Lions with 21 kills, while both junior Blair Brown (Purcellville, Va.) and freshman Darcy Dorton (Muncie, Ind.) contributed 13 kills each. The Nittany Lions had five players with double-digit digs led by junior libero Alyssa D'Errico (Byron, N.Y.) who posted a career-high 22. Brown made 14 saves, Hodge had 13 and junior Cathy Quilico (Thousand Oaks, Calif.) and senior setter Alisha Glass (Leland, Mich.) had 12 apiece. Junior Fatima Balza (Merida, Venezuela) had a team-best nine total blocks and Hodge put up five. Glass dished out 53 helpers in the match and both D'Errico and Quilico had two aces each.
Hodge, player of the year, recorded the final kill off of player of the tournament Destinee Hooker.

The Nittany Lions had not gone down 0-2 in a match during their unprecedented 102 match winning streak before last night. That is a NCAA record for consecutive wins by a women's team in any sport. Coach Russ Rose won his 1,001st career match too. Penn State became the first women's volleyball team to win 3 consecutive titles too. They also won 10 years ago -- I saw an opening round game between the Lady Spikers and UCLA.

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posted by WFY @ 7:37 AM | |

PENN STATE WINS WOMEN'S VOLLEYBALL TITLE OVER TEXAS - William World News
Saturday, December 19, 2009

PENN STATE WINS WOMEN'S VOLLEYBALL TITLE OVER TEXAS

I just finished watching Penn State comeback from an 0-2 deficit to Texas in the NCAA Women's Volleyball Championship game. When I turned it on, they were losing in the second set. PSUGirl's 2thelion blog hosted a Cover-it-Live chat during the match.

It was thrilling volleyball, tense and well-played by both sides. Destinee Hooker of Texas was dominant, but in the end, the final point came when she couldn't return a spike. Penn State only started to pull away late in the final set, but still only won by 2.

Penn State has now extending the all-time women's NCAA consecutive wins record (any sport) to 102 and won its third consecutive National Championship, fourth overall.

Here is how it happened

22/25 20/25 25/23 25/21 15/13

More details tomorrow

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posted by WFY @ 10:39 PM | |

Penn State vs. Texas Women's volleyball title game at 8 - William World News

Penn State vs. Texas Women's volleyball title game at 8

No. 1 Penn State Advances to National Championship Match, Rose Earns 1,000th career win - Intercollegiate Athletics
Tonight at 8 on ESPN2, #1 Penn State plays #2 Texas for the Women's Volleyball National Championship from Tampa. The Nittany Lions are on a 101-game winning streak. The Longhorns are 29-1.

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posted by WFY @ 3:09 PM | |

Penn State: Russ Rose stathead volleyball coach - William World News
Wednesday, December 09, 2009

Penn State: Russ Rose stathead volleyball coach

For Penn State’s Volleyball Coach, the Streak Is Beside the Point - The Times
The "best coach" on the Penn State campus according to Joe Patenro is Russ Rose, women's volleyball coach. I'm not going to argue with JoePa on this one because Rose has won 2 women's volleyball national titles in a row, 3 overall and has the Lady Spikers on a 98 match winning streak. He is also a pioneer in using statistics in volleyball, having written his master's thesis on the subject. His own stats go beyond the official NCAA numbers and that has helped create the longest winning streak in Division I women's history (all sports).

Undefeated Penn State enters the round of 16 on Friday in Gainesville, Fla.

I miss going to matches at Rec Hall, I used to go several times a season.

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posted by WFY @ 10:00 AM | |

Basketball: Penn State 69 Virginia 66 - William World News
Tuesday, December 01, 2009

Basketball: Penn State 69 Virginia 66

Lions top UVA behind Battle - The Collegian
Lions bounce Cavaliers - CDT
I did not see much of the game, only parts of the first half when Penn State's shooting was cold, but the Nittany Lions got it together and held on for a much needed road win. Penn State is now 5-2, UVa. falls to 4-3.

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posted by WFY @ 6:00 AM | |

Basketball: Penn State at Virginia on ESPN2 at 7 p.m. - William World News
Monday, November 30, 2009

Basketball: Penn State at Virginia on ESPN2 at 7 p.m.

Lions gear for ACC foe - CDT
Surely the ACC-Big Ten Challenge will fill the void left by no Penn State football right? Well, either way it is a good chance to see the men's basketball team tonight. They are in Charlottesville (had it been a weekend, it might have been tempting to visit) to take on the Cavaliers. ESPN2 has the telecast with Mike Patrick and Len Elmore.

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posted by WFY @ 6:15 PM | |

Penn State extends Ed DeChellis as basketball coach - William World News
Monday, October 05, 2009

Penn State extends Ed DeChellis as basketball coach

DeChellis gets extension - The Collegian
Coach's new deal a sign of stability - CDT
Penn State Announces Contract Extension For DeChellis - Intercollegiate Athletics
Coming off a NIT title (you can't spell Nittany without N-I-T!) Ed DeChellis enters his eighth season with a three-year contract extension. Penn State rewarded his first winning Big Ten campaign and NIT championship with a contract extension that goes through 2014.

DAVID JONES - Thoughts on PSU's contract extension for Ed DeChellis - Patriot-News
JEFF RICE - Coach's new deal a sign of stability - CDT
Jones sees this two ways -- the bar is set really low at Penn State when it comes to men's basketball, but also that other programs would probably not reward such an admirable man for being who he is and not just what he has won.

Given Penn State's attitude towards basketball or maybe, more tellingly, reluctance to spend a lot of money, DeChellis appears to be the right man for the job. I hope he gets the Nittany Lions to the next level so that we can move away from "you can't spell extension without N-I-T" as some of Rice's friends say.

By the way, single game tickets go sale today for the Nittany Lions and Lady Lions 2009-2010 basketball seasons.

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posted by WFY @ 11:45 AM | |

Recap: Penn State's NIT Championship - William World News
Friday, April 03, 2009

Recap: Penn State's NIT Championship


Lions prevail in NIT finals - The Collegian
Senior wills Lions to title - The Collegian
Cornley finishes career 'satisfied' - The Collegian
PSU WINS NIT; Cornley wins MVP - CDT
Cornley leads Penn State to NIT tournament title - AP/CDT
DAVID JONES - Cornley leaves with legacy as champion - Patriot-News
Penn State won its first postseason men's basketball tournament last night, defeating Baylor 69-63 to win the NIT. Senior Jamelle Cornley is the biggest hero, winning MVP despite playing with a busted shoulder. A bleeding Danny Morrissey also made sure Penn State was not denied.

The win is a validation for Ed DeChellis who has struggled to put his alma mater on the college basketball map. The 27 wins this year were a school record.

Buie verbals to PSU following win - The Collegian
Talor Battle's half brother Taran Buie committed to Penn State yesterday. The New York product has another year of high school left. They should play together for one season -- it'll be like the Crispin brothers 2.0!

JoePa cheers on Penn St. hoops, waxes about NYC - AP/CDT
Joe Paterno was at both games in Madison Square Garden this week. He apparently spent a lot of time reminiscing about playing basketball during his youth in Brooklyn. Here is clip from the semi-final:



He is so old.

Okay, let's say it one more time

You can't spell Nittany without N-I-T!


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posted by WFY @ 5:50 AM | |

This was PSU's second postseason tournament championship. Might want to check out 1991.
http://www.miniurl.com/9646

# posted by Anonymous Brad the Fact Checker : Saturday, April 04, 2009 10:33:00 AM  

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PENN STATE WINS NIT! - William World News
Thursday, April 02, 2009

PENN STATE WINS NIT!

We have a final score from Madison Square Garden, New York.

PENN STATE 69
BAYLOR 63


ESPN
Boxscore

The Nittany Lions win their first National Invitation Tournament Championship! Will Beaver Canyon survive?! We'll find out tomorrow morning.

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posted by WFY @ 9:10 PM | |

From the way you wrote that, it sounds like there was a conclave of basketball minds at MSG and you were just waiting for the white smoke and proclamation.

# posted by Anonymous Muha : Thursday, April 02, 2009 9:19:00 PM  

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NIT Final preview: Penn State vs. Baylor; Dave Jones a homer - William World News

NIT Final preview: Penn State vs. Baylor; Dave Jones a homer

Lions battle for NIT crown - The Collegian
The last dance:Rolling Lions hope to cap off season tonight with NIT title - CDT
Baylor (24-14) vs. Penn State (26-11) - CDT
Bears battle Nittany Lions for NIT crown - CDT
Game previews -- Baylor has great athletes, but Penn State has smart players seems to be the theme. The Baylor players also have not shot each other (AP/USA Today) in several years.

Fans snatch up NIT ticket - The Colleigan
Students bought 2,000 tickets for tonight's game. Perhaps they can start buying that many for regular season home games. They are filling up 25 of the 33 buses going to the game too. The Nittany Lions will have a real home court advantage.

DAVID JONES - Last time to enjoy Lions - Patriot-News
Jones comes clean:
I've said this before: I violate the journalist's creed when it comes to Penn State men's basketball because I'm a homer. This is the 20th season I've covered this program. There are a few people who've been involved longer with PSU hoops, but not many. I can think of assistant athletic director Dave Baker, play-by-play man Steve Jones, FightOnState.com editor Mark Brennan and maybe PSU basketball office secretary Pam Byron. I think that's it.

I like to see the team do well. That's because people such as Bruce Parkhill, Jerry Dunn and Ed DeChellis have recruited almost exclusively great kids with big hearts, real smiles and stories to tell. It makes you want to root for them when you get to know them a little.
I disagree with him about Steve Jones, but overall the column a great read.

Game time is 7 p.m. on ESPN.

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posted by WFY @ 12:12 PM | |

NIT semi-finals: Penn State vs. Notre Dame at 9 p.m. on ESPN2 - William World News
Tuesday, March 31, 2009

NIT semi-finals: Penn State vs. Notre Dame at 9 p.m. on ESPN2

Penn State enjoying sights - The Collegian
Harangody provides challenge - The Collegian
Lions looking to make Garden magic - CDT
DAVID JONES - ND basketball in comfort zone - Patriot-News
Notre Dame (21-14) vs. Penn State (25-11) - CDT
After a long and hopefully helpful rest, the Nittany Lions are back on the hardwood tonight at New York's Madison Square Garden for the NIT semi-finals. They have not been since 2000, losing to tonight's opponent Notre Dame in same round. The next year, Penn State made a Sweet 16 run in the NCAA tournament.

The Nittany Lions better not be in awe of Madison Square Garden because Notre Dame, a member of the Big East, is quite familiar with it -- this year the Fighting Irish played there three times. Penn State did win in hostile Florida and I don't expect the Garden crowd to favor either team overwhelmingly, so there is hope there.

And they're off for New York - CDT
Twelve buses full of Penn State fans left for New York at noon today from the Bryce Jordan Center. I took that trip twice and had fun both times. It s shame we don't have a railroad in Happy Valley, that would be even better.

Video from PennLive.com:

Penn State basketball coach Ed DeChellis

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posted by WFY @ 2:01 PM | |

NIT: Penn State vs. Notre Dame next Tuesday - William World News
Thursday, March 26, 2009

NIT: Penn State vs. Notre Dame next Tuesday

Next Tuesday, Penn State will face Notre Dame (ESPN) in a rematch of the 2000 NIT semi-finals. I was there that night at and let's say it was more disappointing than the 1998 NIT semi-finals which I also attended.

Tip-off is 9 p.m. I am pretty sure ESPN has the coverage. I posted details about tickets last night.


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posted by WFY @ 8:30 AM | |

Penn State NIT ticket information - William World News
Wednesday, March 25, 2009

Penn State NIT ticket information

Students offered NIT semifinal package for only $20 - Penn State Live
Details about NIT semi-final tickets have been released by Intercollegiate Athletics. Men's basketball season ticket-holders get first priority:
Penn State basketball student season ticket-holders will have the opportunity to purchase tickets for the Nittany Lions' Tuesday night, prime-time NIT semifinal game in New York City's Madison Square Garden beginning at 10 a.m. Friday. Tickets for students who were not season ticket-holders will be made available at noon. Intercollegiate Athletics will offer all students a $20 ticket and travel package for the NIT that includes a $10 semifinal ticket and same-day, round-trip bus transportation for $10.
Having done this twice, this is a great trip at an unbelievable price.

For students not wishing to take the bus, $10 tickets are sold separately.

Everybody else:
The sale of NIT semifinal tickets through Athletic Ticketing Services for Nittany Lion Club members and the general public begins at 10 a.m. Thursday, March 26. Tickets are available by calling (814) 865-5555. Tickets will be allocated on a priority basis according to Nittany Lion Club point totals and no transportation arrangements are offered as part of this sale. Cost per ticket is $30. Tickets can also be purchased through
Hopefully, they will need to do this next for next Thursday too.

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posted by WFY @ 8:45 PM | |

NIT: Penn State beats Florida, advances to MSG - William World News

NIT: Penn State beats Florida, advances to MSG

Lions advance to the Garden after winning in hostile Florida environment - The Collegian
"I knew they were really good, probably a team that had a right or maybe an argument to be in the NCAA tournament," Donovan said. "Their team is very, very good - as good as any team we've played this year."
Penn State became only the second visiting team to beat the Gators on their home court this season, winning 71-62. They now advance to the semi-finals at Madison Square Garden -- a stated goal coming into the NIT. Either Notre Dame, who they fell to in the 2000 semis, or Kentucky awaits in New York next Tuesday.

F Jamelle Cornley dominated with 23 points and 12 rebounds, despite his ailing shoulder.

Later Gators: Nittany Lions top Florida, earn a trip to the Garden - CDT

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posted by WFY @ 5:39 AM | |

NIT: Penn State vs. Florida preview - William World News
Tuesday, March 24, 2009

NIT: Penn State vs. Florida preview

Penn State looks to reach MSG - The Collegian
Cornley, Battle probable - The Collegian
Penn State (24-11) at Florida (25-10) - CDT
DAVID JONES - Weary Battle still ready to play - Patriot-News
Penn State heads to Florida (oh no ESSS EEEE CEEE SPEED!) for the NIT quarterfinals. The winner heads to New York for the semi-finals in Madison Square Garden.
  • G Talor Battle is second in the NCAA with 1,306 minutes played.

  • FJamelle Cornley is expected to play after missing time with a bad shoulder.

  • Florida is 18-1 at home this year

  • The Gators are two years removed from a National Championship

  • The all-time series between the two basketball teams is 1-1.

  • Bragging rights with my cousin's wife are on the line here.

  • Penn State is 4-0 in NIT quarterfinals
Sounds like a tall order for the Nittany Lions. Tip off is 9 p.m. on ESPN.

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posted by WFY @ 12:15 PM | |

Penn State wins 11th Fencing title - William World News
Monday, March 23, 2009

Penn State wins 11th Fencing title

Penn State Takes First in Team Standings and Crowns Two Additional National Champions - Intercollegiate Athletics
Penn State once again won the fencing championship. They won their first title in 1990 and ten others since. They will get introduced on the field at Beaver Stadium next fall.

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posted by WFY @ 2:00 PM | |

NIT: Penn State at Florida on Tuesday - William World News
Saturday, March 21, 2009

NIT: Penn State at Florida on Tuesday

UF moves on to NIT quarters - Gainesville Sun
Penn State now knows the next step in the NIT -- a trip to Florida to play the Gators on their home court, the O'Connell Center. Florida took out Miami 74-60.

Tuesday's game starts at 9 p.m. and the winner goes to the NIT semi-finals in New York's Madison Square Garden. No word on a telecast yet though.

UPDATE 9:00 a.m.: On ESPN, according to PennStateSteph tweet

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posted by WFY @ 8:15 AM | |

Correection: 9 PM!

# posted by Blogger Kevin McGuire : Saturday, March 21, 2009 12:31:00 PM  

What I meant to say was "UPDATED 9 a.m." to reflect the new information. That is what you get for trying to sneak in something quick while the baby naps.

# posted by Blogger WFY : Saturday, March 21, 2009 2:13:00 PM  

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Penn State vs. Rhode Island recaps - William World News
Friday, March 20, 2009

Penn State vs. Rhode Island recaps

Lions show off their focus - The Collegian
The Nittany Lions got their revenge for an early season loss to Rhode Island, winning 83-74 in a wire-to-wire victory.
The Lions jumped out to a quick 20-5 start against the Rams and led wire-to-wire in the NIT second round game, putting them one step away from the semifinals and a trip to Madison Square Garden in New York. Either a road game at Florida or a home date with Miami awaits next week depending on tonight's outcome between the Gators and Hurricanes.
I'm hoping for Miami -- head-to-head with a cousin's alma mater, though if it is Florida, it would be against his wife's alma mater.

Growling back: Lions show physical play in rematch against Rams - CDT
...it was with its most physical player, Jamelle Cornley, on the end of the bench in a T-shirt and jeans. The senior forward was a scratch after aggravating his injured left shoulder in Tuesday’s first-round win over George Mason.

Guards Stanley Pringle and Talor Battle — who had totaled only 23 points in the teams’ first meeting — led an end-to-end Penn State attack with 19 and 16 points, respectively. But forward Andrew Jones, who scored 14 points and grabbed 10 of Penn State’s 37 rebounds, was Cornley-like in the paint.
Cornley has at least four days to get his shoulder better and hopefully he can. One more win and the Nittany Lions head to New York's Madison Square Garden for the NIT semifinals.

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posted by WFY @ 5:39 AM | |

Good win for the Nittany Lions last night. Hopefully they can keep it going!

# posted by Blogger Kevin McGuire : Friday, March 20, 2009 7:07:00 AM  

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Penn State beats Rhode Island, 83-74 - William World News
Thursday, March 19, 2009

Penn State beats Rhode Island, 83-74

Via Nittany_Nation twitter

The Nittany Lions face the winner of the tomorrow's Florida vs. Miami game.

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posted by WFY @ 9:15 PM | |

NIT: Penn State vs. Rhode Island tonight - William World News

NIT: Penn State vs. Rhode Island tonight

Lions, URI to meet - The Collegian
Lions find comfort in Brooks - CDT
The Nittany Lions play Rhode Island tonight at the Bryce Jordan Center in a rematch of regular season game that Penn State lost. The Nits may not have the services of Jamelle Corney, who sat on the bench with his shoulder in a sling at the end of the George Mason game. The game is televised on FoxSports Pittsburgh which does not help people in greater D.C. Hopefully, they will get a better turnout tonight too, less than 6,000 were at Tuesday's game.

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posted by WFY @ 12:05 PM | |

Penn State beats George Mason in OT - William World News
Wednesday, March 18, 2009

Penn State beats George Mason in OT

Talor-made victory - The Collegian
Talor Battle and the Nittany Lions defeated George Mason in overtime, 77-73. Jamelle Cornley left the game with a shoulder injury and watched with his arm in a sling from the bench.

Penn State hosts Rhode Island, Thursday at 7 p.m. -- a chance for the Nittany Lions to extract revenge for a loss back in November.

Here is video of Battle forcing overtime:


Watch live video from Gonzaga Basketball - Go Zags! on Justin.tv

H/T Nittany Nation twitter

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posted by WFY @ 6:23 AM | |

Penn State vs. George Mason on ESPNU - William World News
Tuesday, March 17, 2009

Penn State vs. George Mason on ESPNU

Lions start NIT play - The Collegian
Lions' focus shifts to Patriots - CDT
Penn State takes on George Mason from the Bryce Jordan Center on the University Park campus. Mason was runner-up in their conference and both teams have identical 22-10 records. It is just Penn State's luck to play a green team on St. Patrick's Day. This strikes me as a pretty tall order for an opener.

Camp DeChelis (CDT) sprung up next to the Jordan Center. I need to write about this more extensively.

The game is televised at 8 p.m. on ESPNU.

NIT Bracket (embedded PDF)

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posted by WFY @ 9:00 AM | |

Penn State's bubble bursts: You can't spell Nittany without NIT - William World News
Sunday, March 15, 2009

Penn State's bubble bursts: You can't spell Nittany without NIT

Penn State left out of NCAA Tournament - The Collegian
Sigh -- as recently as Friday afternoon, it looked as though Penn State would return to the NCAA tournament for the first time in eight years. Sadly, their non-conference schedule and a series of upsets this weekend sunk Penn State's bid. They have to settle for the NIT which the are a #2 seed in. They play George Mason (my brother graduated from there), at home on Tuesday at 8:00 p.m (PennLive.com). Something tells me that big 13,000 crowd won't be repeated. Also, what bad luck to be hosting a team with green as a color on St. Patrick's Day.

Hopefully, Penn State can make a big run at the NIT and use it to build tournament experience. That formula worked nine years ago when a NIT semi-finals appearance preceded a NCAA Sweet Sixteen run in 2001. In 1998, they finished second in the NIT as well, losing to a Minnesota team that was full of cheaters. I attended the semi-finals both times at Madison Square Garden.

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posted by WFY @ 9:27 PM | |

I saw the game will be in ESPNU. While I don't have ESNU, I have the next best thing through Verizon FIOS: ESPN360. Comcast sucks!

# posted by Anonymous Brad : Sunday, March 15, 2009 10:15:00 PM  

Hopefully the Lions hold their heads high and represent themselves well in the NIT. I agree that it would still be a good experience to have a deep run in the NIT.

Next year's schedule better not be as light as it was this year though.

# posted by Blogger Kevin McGuire : Monday, March 16, 2009 8:26:00 AM  

Sigh....Its a shame, but the upsets in the Pac-10 and SEC over the weekend doomed them.

Agree that the schedule needs to be upgraded. The committee showed that they do NOT care about how a team finishes, your conference record, or any big road conference wins. Otherwise, Minnesota and Arizona would not be in. Apparently, its more imporant to win a game in November or December than March.

# posted by Anonymous TMBC : Monday, March 16, 2009 9:43:00 AM   Post a Comment

Penn State never leads, falls to Purude - William World News
Saturday, March 14, 2009

Penn State never leads, falls to Purude

Lions trail from start to finish in loss to Purdue - The Collegian
Penn State is back on the NCAA bubble it would seem after never leading against Purdue in game 2 of the Big Ten Tournament. The loss puts Penn State right back on the bubble which got more crowded yesterday.

Now, the waiting games begins, are they in the NCAA Tournament or not? We shall find out tomorrow night.

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posted by WFY @ 6:50 AM | |

Penn State solidifies its NCAA bid with a win over Indiana - William World News
Friday, March 13, 2009

Penn State solidifies its NCAA bid with a win over Indiana

Cornley powers PSU to first-round rout of Indiana - The Collegian
Penn State won its Big Ten Tournament opener against Indiana last night, 66-51 in Indianapolis. Jamelle Cornley was dominant and showed no ill-effects of his aggravated shoulder injury, suffered against Illinois. The Nittany Lions crushed the Hoosiers despite getting terrible second half play from the bench after the game was well in hand.

Given that Penn State was thought to be in by some prior to last night's game, you can probably assume they still have an at-large NCAA tournament bid waiting for them.

They face Purdue in the second round of the tournament tonight at 9 p.m. on Big Ten Network.

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posted by WFY @ 8:52 AM | |

While it looked like myself and four other random guys could have beat Indiana last night, State certainly did not look like a team ready for The Big Dance. I would say a win tonight will solidify their inclusion in the tourney bracket.

# posted by Blogger Cliff : Friday, March 13, 2009 9:40:00 AM  

How did they not look ready? Granted Indiana is terrible, but PSU was up 25 with 8 minutes left and all the back-ups started coming in. I'm not saying they are world-beaters, but they did what was needed.

# posted by Anonymous The Maryland Bureau Chief : Friday, March 13, 2009 10:42:00 AM  

I have to agree with Cliff. This isn't football, and DeChellis is no JoePa. With a tourney berth on the line, you don't put in your second string and let up with 8 to go in an opening round game. That's just stupid. They may have been up 25, but that shrunk to 15 in those 8 minutes, and the FG percentage fell way off.

Beating Purdue would go a long way to ensure the berth, otherwise they're going to need a lot of help. OSU won today, so it's possible that we can also pull off the upset.

# posted by Anonymous Muha : Friday, March 13, 2009 7:41:00 PM  

Well, we're getting trounced early. If this is the last thing we show the selection committee, then we are NIT bound.

# posted by Anonymous Brad : Friday, March 13, 2009 9:33:00 PM  

Muha, yesterday's game was on national tv. Everyone could see PSU was killing Indiana. DeChellis was pulling the starters to save their legs for tonight.

However, as Brad noted, that didn't seem to matter because Purdue is killing us. I think we are still in, but I'll caveat that by saying we probably now need both Maryland and Baylor to lose tomorrow. With victories, Baylor would clinch an automatic bid and Maryland would probably get in, and that may take the last available spots away from us.

# posted by Anonymous TMBC : Friday, March 13, 2009 10:40:00 PM  

Oh, and we're going to need to have Temple beat Duquesne to win the A-10 tournament tomorrow. So that's at least 3 games may impact our chances.

# posted by Anonymous TMBC : Friday, March 13, 2009 10:56:00 PM   Post a Comment

Will Penn State basketball make the leap to the big dance tonight? - William World News
Thursday, March 12, 2009

Will Penn State basketball make the leap to the big dance tonight?

At 5 p.m. on ESPN 2, Penn State plays Indiana in the Big11Ten Tournament. The Nittany Lions are seeded sixth while the Hooisers are last and seeded eleventh. I can't watch it, but perhaps someone can text me the score.

Black Shoe Diaries has an excellent preview of the game. A win probably assures Penn State a spot in the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 2001, while loss could mean NIT.

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posted by WFY @ 12:15 PM | |

I think we may need to beat Purdue to get in. Beating Indiana this year isn't going to impressive a whole lot of people.

Beat Purdue and we're in. No doubt. Lose to Purdue and we might get in; we might not get in.

# posted by Anonymous Brad : Friday, March 13, 2009 12:42:00 AM  

Way to ride the fence, Brad!

I am willing to take a position. Penn State is in.

# posted by Anonymous TMBC : Friday, March 13, 2009 9:29:00 AM  

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Has Penn State done enough to get to the Big Dance? - William World News
Tuesday, March 10, 2009

Has Penn State done enough to get to the Big Dance?

Last Saturday's disappointing loss at Iowa did not help the Nittany Lions cause, but ESPN thinks they are in the NCAA Tournament as of now.

Before the NCAA's though, Penn State has to play in the Big11Ten Tournament. The loss on Saturday dropped them to sixth in the conference, so they will play #11 Indiana on Thursday at 5 p.m. on ESPN2. A win there helps the Big Dance bid, a loss could push them out.

DeChellis, Battle, Cornley earn conference honors - The Collegian
Ed DeChellis was picked as Big11Ten coach of the year by the media voters. G Talor Battle was All-Big11Ten, while F Jamelle Cornley was on the second team.

UPDATE 12:39 p.m.:David Jones' Patriot-News column on Penn State's schedule holding them back.

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posted by WFY @ 6:41 AM | |

This is one of those no-win situations. They should be in already. However, I think a loss and they will definitely be out. They are likely safe if they win but they'd be a lock if they win two. Also depends on what other teams do.

# posted by Anonymous TMBC : Wednesday, March 11, 2009 8:18:00 AM  

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PENN STATE BEATS ILLINOIS AGAIN! - William World News
Friday, March 06, 2009

PENN STATE BEATS ILLINOIS AGAIN!

Lions battle to last second - The Collegian
Talor Battle drove almost the full length of the court and hit the game winner with .3 second left as Penn State beat #23 Illinois again, 64-63. It looks like it was epic -- David Jones of the Patriot-News calls it a miracle comeback. The final rebound was grabbed by Jamelle Cornley, who had earlier left the game with what sounds like a dislocated shoulder. Did the students storm the court? You bet!

13,091 were there last night, but about 50,000 are going to claim that they were.

A win over Iowa this weekend probably seals a tournament bid, though a loss there can probably be made up for with a strong showing in the Big11Ten tournament.

ESPN.com lead with this game today:


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posted by WFY @ 5:36 AM | |

I agree. Beat Iowa and its a lock. That could be a tough game, given the really short turn-around (how did the schedule makers give PSU a road game that TIPS OFF 41 HOURS after their previous one?) Iowa is tough at home too.

I "think" we are in now. Winning a game in the Big Ten tourney could be tough, especially if we end up playing Wisconsin.

# posted by Anonymous TMBC : Friday, March 06, 2009 8:20:00 AM  

I could watch that all day! Go State!

# posted by Blogger Kevin McGuire : Friday, March 06, 2009 9:35:00 AM  

The Iowa game isn't just a win-and-in game. We're talking about revenge from football season!

Huck the Fawkeyes!

# posted by Blogger Brad Stratton : Friday, March 06, 2009 4:27:00 PM  

It will take a lot more than a regular season basketball win to make me forget football losses to Iowa. Penn State will have to defeat the greatest Iowa football team ever in Kinnick Stadium with the captains marching off the field with the daughters of the head coach and great-great-grandaughters of Nike Kinnick jumping into the arms of the senior co-captains, forsaking their Hawkeye heritage and pledging eternal devotion to Joe Paterno.

# posted by Blogger WFY : Friday, March 06, 2009 4:47:00 PM  

Well, seeing as how Bowden now has to forfeit 14 wins from the '06 and '07 seasons, that pledging thing shouldn't be all that difficult.

# posted by Anonymous Muha : Friday, March 06, 2009 7:48:00 PM   Post a Comment

Penn State vs. Illinois at 9 p.m. on ESPN - William World News
Thursday, March 05, 2009

Penn State vs. Illinois at 9 p.m. on ESPN

Big basketball game at Bryce Jordan Center tonight -- Penn State vs. #23 Illinois. A win and the Nittany Lions could be in. A loss probably keeps them on the bubble. Hopefully they will get a good crowd up there. ESPN Preview

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posted by WFY @ 7:12 PM | |

We won! We won! The fans storm the court! Beat Iowa on Saturday and we're probably in (with a first round bye in the Big Ten Tournament, none of the less)!

You may not be able to spell Nittany without NIT, but that doesn't mean we have to go there!

WE ARE...

# posted by Anonymous Brad : Thursday, March 05, 2009 11:23:00 PM  

PENN STATE!

# posted by Blogger WFY : Friday, March 06, 2009 8:02:00 AM  

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Progress towards varsity hockey at PSU? - William World News
Friday, February 20, 2009

Progress towards varsity hockey at PSU?

PSU looks at ice arena possibility - CDT
The CDT has gotten wind of the latest feasibility study to building an arena at Penn State suitable for varsity hockey. This was discovered by blogs and message boards earlier this week. Before we get too excited, keep in mind that there have already been five feasibility studies about building an ice arena. The current study looks at building a 6,000 seat arena. I would not count on anything in the near term with the economy the way it is though there are donors lined up.

Are we closer to D-I hockey at Penn State? I cannot say, but I am glad it is on the radar.

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posted by WFY @ 3:00 PM | |

Sources: Penn State beats Illinois in ugliest basketball game ever - William World News
Thursday, February 19, 2009

Sources: Penn State beats Illinois in ugliest basketball game ever

Here is a brief Google chat I had with esteemed Penn State blogger Run Up the Score! of Black Shoe Diaries about last night's Penn State at Illinois basketball game:
me: what is the score?
Run: 6-4.
or it's functional equivalent.
me: figures
Run: it was the ugliest thing i've ever seen.
me: already over?
Run: oh, yes. it's over. we won.
me: cool
Run: 38-33.
me: wow
Run: final score.
17-15 at half.
so they really lit it up in the second half.
me: at least we won this "6-4" game
Run: dude, i can't even properly describe it yet. it was just awful in a million ways.
me: sounds like it
Final Score 38-33, Penn State. That is not a misprint or the women's score.

David Jones live-blogged it on pennlive.com. Then he wrote this Patriot-News column: Big win is big win, even one this ugly. Yes, the team is back on the NCAAs bubble.

Lions notch road win - The Collegian
Fighting through - CDT

Well, this should settle TMBC down a little bit, no?

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posted by WFY @ 12:36 PM | |

According to ESPN's Bob Picozzi, evidently they didn't have time to play the back nine.

# posted by Anonymous Hendo : Thursday, February 19, 2009 2:01:00 PM  

This is awesome! The two teams that combined to play one of the ugliest football games ever have now combined to play one of the ugliest basketball games ever.

I can't wait to see what they'll do for an encore.

# posted by Anonymous Brad : Thursday, February 19, 2009 4:55:00 PM  

Here's the best part!

"The teams' combined 71 points was the lowest total in Division I men's basketball since Monmouth beat Princeton 41-21 in 2005."

# posted by Anonymous Anonymous Monmouth alumni : Thursday, February 19, 2009 4:58:00 PM  

Brad: Not quite -- football was vs. Iowa, basketball vs, Illinois

AMA: I saw that and thought of you.

I forgot to mention in the original post that a newspaper editor in Ohio I work with started our conversation today with "you must be ashamed..." I thought he was talking about Slimey Smiley, but he was in fact talking about this game. I could have a fun Wednesday morning next week when Penn State heads to Ohio State.

# posted by Blogger WFY : Thursday, February 19, 2009 5:51:00 PM   Post a Comment

Penn State still has a tough road in to the tourney - William World News
Tuesday, February 17, 2009

Penn State still has a tough road in to the tourney

DAVID JONES - NCAA arithmetic doesn't favor Lions - Patriot-News
A breakdown of why Penn State probably won't make the NCAA basketball tournament. They did win over the weekend though, beating Minnesota, 68-83 in Happy Valley (The Collegian).

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posted by WFY @ 1:30 PM | |

Cagers L3 - William World News
Thursday, February 12, 2009

Cagers L3

Lions' skid extends to three - The Collegian
The Nittany Lions continued to strengthen their NIT bid with a third consecutive loss, this time to Purdue in Indiana. Only a miraculous Big11Ten tournament run can get them in the big dance.

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posted by WFY @ 12:31 PM | |

14,686 see Penn State's big dance dream die - William World News
Monday, February 09, 2009

14,686 see Penn State's big dance dream die

Fans pack BJC Sunday - The Collegian
Flat showing dooms Lions - The Collegian
The largest crowd at a Penn State men's basketball game in eight years saw the Nittany Lions fall to Wisconsin, 54-44. That makes two losses in a row for the Cagers, seemingly ending their bid for a trip to the NCAA Tournament. However, you still spell Nittany with N-I-T, so they can make it a meaningful season yet. A deep NIT run probably serves the team better than one-and-done in the Tourney.

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posted by WFY @ 12:12 PM | |

Oops -- Big Dance dreams for Penn State take a hit - William World News
Friday, February 06, 2009

Oops -- Big Dance dreams for Penn State take a hit

Penn State falls to Michigan - The Collegian
I hope you did not plan on filling out your bracket with Penn State after it defeated #9 Michigan State. Last night, the Penn State Nittany Lions basketball team lost to Michigan by 20. Ouch.

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posted by WFY @ 1:15 PM | |

Its good that everyone was getting excited, but given the schedule down the stretch, I think it was a bit unfounded. Plus, numerous "experts" noted that given the weak non-conference schedule, Penn State may need to go 11-7 in conference to secure an at-large bid. I'm perfectly satisfied with a "You can't spell Nittany without N-I-T" bid! The program is getting better, which is all you can ask for.

# posted by Anonymous TMBC : Friday, February 06, 2009 3:19:00 PM  

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Penn State basketball continues to impress - William World News
Monday, February 02, 2009

Penn State basketball continues to impress

Lions defeat No. 9 MSU - The Collegian
It took about sixteen years, but the Nittany Lions men's basketball team finally won at Michigan State. They did this despite their terrible free throw shooting. This is a big win that makes thoughts of something beyond the NIT not as far-fetched.

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posted by WFY @ 11:17 AM | |

You probably can spell Nittany with N-I-T - William World News
Wednesday, January 28, 2009

You probably can spell Nittany with N-I-T

DAVID JONES - PSU's position isn't as bright as you believe - Patriot-News
Yes, the Penn State basketball team is looking better than average at 16-5 this year. They are 5-3 in the Big11Ten too which is highly unusual for them too. However, before you crown 'em remember they did not play anybody out of conference of note and still lost two of those games, so a Big Dance invitation is going to take some more strong conference play and a strong showing in the Big11Ten Tournament.

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posted by WFY @ 12:50 PM | |

I don't know, I think PSU is going to the real tournament. They need to pick up some key victories down the stretch but I wouldn't count them out. The losses to Rhode Island and Temple hurts but they did beat Georgia Tech. Of course Tech is slumping this year at 9-10 so go figure.

# posted by Blogger Kevin McGuire : Wednesday, January 28, 2009 1:51:00 PM  

Its N-I-T time baby! I'm glad the Lions are shooting for the NCAA, but lets be realistic. 6 of the last 10 are on the road, so getting to 9-9 in conference will be tough. But who cares, we're going to the N-I-T!!!!!! We hardly ever get treated to any postseason hoops, so I will enjoy it. Rejoice!

Oh, and for anyone who complains about the weather in Washington:

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090128/ap_on_go_pr_wh/obama_winter_weather

# posted by Anonymous The Maryland Bureau Chief : Wednesday, January 28, 2009 4:30:00 PM  

I had something to say about Mr. Obama's weather remarks earlier.

# posted by Blogger WFY : Wednesday, January 28, 2009 6:22:00 PM  

My bad, sorry about that.

# posted by Anonymous TMBC : Wednesday, January 28, 2009 8:06:00 PM   Post a Comment

Just like football - William World News
Wednesday, January 21, 2009

Just like football

Lions roar past Wolverines - CDT
Lions down Wolverines - The Collegian
Penn State beats Michigan -- in men's basketball too.

A certain bureau chief in an adjoining state wants to start spelling something. Over on Black Shoe Diaries, people are getting even more ahead of themselves.

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posted by WFY @ 12:02 PM | |

Stanley Pringle image rehabilitation includes potato-like snacks - William World News
Wednesday, January 14, 2009

Stanley Pringle image rehabilitation includes potato-like snacks



Basketball: PSU vs. MSU tonight 6:30 p.m. (BTN)

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posted by WFY @ 12:13 PM | |

Lady Spikers win second straight national championship - William World News
Sunday, December 21, 2008

Lady Spikers win second straight national championship

SIMPLY THE BEST - CDT
The Penn State Nittany Lions women's volleyball team won their second consecutive national championship in Omaha last night. Like last year they beat Stanford for the title. How dominant was Penn State this season? They won 111 straight sets before dropping two in the semifinals. They won all three last night too.

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posted by WFY @ 9:34 AM | |

PSU women's volleyball on the cusp of another title - William World News
Friday, December 19, 2008

PSU women's volleyball on the cusp of another title

Set for a repeat - CDT
Defending champion Penn State returns to the NCAA women's volleyball final after defeating Nebraska in five sets in Omaha. The actually lost a set too, for the first time in their previous 111. They face Stanford, again, for the championship.

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posted by WFY @ 2:00 PM | |

Lion mascot gets DUI - William World News
Tuesday, December 02, 2008

Lion mascot gets DUI

Nittany Lion mascot charged with DUI - The Post
A few people have emailed me about this -- the student who has been wearing the Nittany Lion costume, James Sheep, got charged with a DUI last Saturday. It is pretty easy to not drive drunk, but people keep doing it. I don't get it.

Sheep probably cost himself a trip to the Rose Bowl and makes the university look bad. No tears for him here. Idiot.

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posted by WFY @ 12:07 PM | |

Miss Virginia was the Lady Icers goalie - William World News
Tuesday, November 25, 2008

Miss Virginia was the Lady Icers goalie

The reigning Miss Virginia, Tara Wheeler, is not only a Penn State alumna ('06 Journ), but a former goalie for the Penn State women's hockey team, the Lady Icers. On Frozen Blog has been featuring her recently:

On Line, Tara's Terrific Tale Broadens

Tara Wheeler, Local Girl, Beauty Pageant Winner, Miss America Contestant, Star College Hockey Goalie, Nothing To See Here, Move Along

She has gotten the Capitals attention as well, she'll be involved in several functions with them in the near future.

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posted by WFY @ 10:00 AM | |

Big11Ten Network, Comcast seal the deal - William World News
Friday, June 20, 2008

Big11Ten Network, Comcast seal the deal

Comcast will carry BTN -- for now - Patriot-News
More details on the Comcast-Big11Ten Network deal. Essentially, for the upcoming football and basketball seasons, BTN will be on expanded-basic cable in the Big11Ten footprint which does not include Philadelphia. In markets outside of the footprint, Comcast will offer BTN on a sports tier. After basketball season is over, Comcast may move it to the sports tier everywhere.

My suggestion to those of us outside of the footprint -- contact Comcast and request that BTN be on the sports tier. I don't mind paying a few bucks a month for more Penn State sports.

PRESS RELEASES:
Comcast, Big Ten Network Reach Broad Multimedia Agreement for Big Ten Network Content - Comcast Press Room
Comcast, Big Ten Network Reach Broad Multimedia Agreement for Big Ten Network Content - Big Ten Network

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posted by WFY @ 2:15 PM | |

You are a little confused in the details of the BTN/Comcast deal.

You seem to have mixed up digital tier with a sports package. They are different.

We are talking about three different types of offerings.

Expanded basic - that's the analog channels offered by your cable company - they are usually the single and double digit numbers on your cable box.

Digital tier - that's all of those channels above 100 on your cable box.

Sports Package - that's a premium offering of a dozen or so specialty sports channels like the gazillion Fox Sports Net - Timbuktu etc that you pay an extra $5-$10 per month for.

Within the Big Ten market (not including Philly) for the upcoming football and basketball seasons, the BTN will be offered for free in the expanded basic tier.

With the Philly market, the BTN will be offered for free in the digital tier (NOT as a sports package).

After basketball season, with the Big Ten market, the BTN will be moved from the expanded basic tier to the digital tier. For 75% of Comcast customers that will have no effect, they will still get it free. For the other 25% they will have to upgrade to digital to still get it for free.

For Philly customers, there will be no change after the football and basketball - it will still be available for free in the digital tier.

Outside of the Big Ten market, individual cable systems will have the option of putting the BTN in the digital tier, putting it in a sports package, or not carrying it at all.

# posted by Blogger UncleLar : Saturday, June 21, 2008 2:06:00 AM  

Thanks for the clarification, UncleLar. I'm a cable Luddite who watches about three shows -- PSU, Nats and Caps.

# posted by Blogger WFY : Saturday, June 21, 2008 8:45:00 AM  

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Big11Ten Network, Comcast near deal? - William World News
Monday, June 16, 2008

Big11Ten Network, Comcast near deal?

Big Ten Network, Comcast ready to call a truce - Chicago Tribune
There are indications that Comcast subscribers will be able to get the Big11Ten Network in time for football season. Folks in Big11Ten Country get it as part of basic cable, while those of us out of it (which includes Philadelphia, apparently) will have to get it on a sports tier.

I will probably splurge and get the sports tier, since it is cheaper than going to a bar to watch the game. I am still not happy about the way it all went down though.

H/T: Black Shoe Diaries, fool

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posted by WFY @ 2:00 PM | |

Ron Bracken retiring - William World News
Thursday, May 15, 2008

Ron Bracken retiring

Sharing a career full of memories and personal beliefs - CDT
Ron Bracken, who has been at the CDT since 1967 (the year after Joe Paterno became Penn State head coach -- JoePa outlasts another one), is retiring on June 30. The eight Sundays proceeding his retirement will feature "highlights of his career" in the CDT. A farewell tour seems a bit much, but I see something interesting, I'll post it.

Over the last few years, Bracken has struck me as getting pretty grumpy about the state of the Nittany Lions (sound like anyone you know?). He was a lot more enthusiastic about covering the program when he came to Jock Lauterer's community journalism class when I was an undergrad.

Players who will never be forgotten - CDT

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posted by WFY @ 12:21 PM | |

Details on what is keeping the Icers from being D-I - William World News
Wednesday, May 07, 2008

Details on what is keeping the Icers from being D-I

Money blocking Icers' D-I prospects - The Collegian
A rundown of the issues preventing Penn State from having varsity hockey. Some of this information contradicts what I had heard last year. According to a source with direct knowledge of the hockey program and university fund raising, a lead donor for a new hockey arena had been identified, but the university had put a moratorium on construction projects for a while. This article seems to indicate that situation is not the current problem holding back a promotion to varsity status.

I think that Penn State will eventually get hockey up to D-I and when it does, it will be the most popular winter sport at Penn State most years.

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posted by WFY @ 12:38 PM | |

A volleyball sweep: Penn State men win nat'l title too - William World News
Monday, May 05, 2008

A volleyball sweep: Penn State men win nat'l title too

Men's volleyball team wins national title - The Collegian
Nittany Lions bring home national title - CDT
Penn State volleyball has now swept the national championships! The men's team beat Pepperdine to win their second national title. Penn State is the only eastern team to ever win a title and they have now done it twice.

The women's team also won the title this academic year.

PREVIOUSLY: Lady Spikers win national title

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posted by WFY @ 6:19 AM | |

<strike>NIT</strike>tany Lions fall to Illinois in the last four seconds - William World News
Friday, March 14, 2008

NITtany Lions fall to Illinois in the last four seconds

Lions' season ends despite late rally - The Collegian
First round KO - CDT
If I had invested much more than a few bucks on PSU basketball jerseys on ebay over the years, my heart probably would have been broken yesterday. Penn State came back from 10 down in the second half and led by a point for what seemed like a minute and a half near the end of the game. They couldn't get one more shot through and Illinois did with less than four seconds left to pull off the win.

That will do it for the cagers this season. While it is disappointing they missed out on the NIT, there is hope. They played the last part of the season with mostly freshmen and return Jamelle Cornely from injury next year. A decent NIT run next year is a reasonable expectation at the very least for next season.

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posted by WFY @ 5:30 AM | |

me if I'm wrong, but the Lions aren't out of the NIT selection yet right? They're out of the NCAA tournament, but maybe the NIT will look at them? Unless the 15-16 record eliminates them for a losing record.

# posted by Blogger Kevin McGuire : Friday, March 14, 2008 12:33:00 PM  

Up until a few years ago, a minimum of a .500 record was required to be eligible for any post-season play. A few years ago, the NIT expanded their field and relaxed some of the eligibility requirements, but I don't know if the .500 record was one of them. Anyone know?

# posted by Anonymous TMBC : Friday, March 14, 2008 2:18:00 PM  

Actually, the NIT reduced their field from 40 to 32. But you're right that they removed the .500 record requirement.

Meanwhile, there's now a third tournament: The Collegiate Basketball Invitational.

# posted by Blogger dl004d : Tuesday, March 18, 2008 5:15:00 PM   Post a Comment

Basketball: Penn State vs. Illinois at 2:30 - William World News
Thursday, March 13, 2008

Basketball: Penn State vs. Illinois at 2:30

The resurgent Penn State men's basketball team begins its improbable run to the NCAA Tournament today as it faces Illinois in the Big11Ten Tournament at 2:30 p.m. on ESPN2. The Nittany Lions are (15-15, 7-11 in the Big11Ten) despite losing their two best players, Geary Claxton and Jamelle Cornley, to injury. They know how to beat Illinois too, winning both games this season. After that, they need to win just through more tournament games to enter Big Dance.

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posted by WFY @ 5:32 AM | |

Its been an interesting season for the cagers, no matter how today's game turns out. Keep in mind that both wins over the Illini were close, and without Cornley and Claxton we could be in trouble. I will hope for the best, but expect the worst....

# posted by Anonymous TMBC : Thursday, March 13, 2008 8:19:00 AM  

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Big11Ten Network progress in Pennsylvania - William World News
Tuesday, March 11, 2008

Big11Ten Network progress in Pennsylvania

David Jones of the Patriot-News reports on his blog that things are looking up for Pennsylvania cable subscribers who want to see Big11Ten Network. A deal is close for that will allow many Comcast subscribers will get it on expanded basic tier, except for the Philadelphia area which will have to pay extra.

This doesn't help me, but I know Penn Staters in the Keystone State will be pleased.

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posted by WFY @ 12:56 PM | |

Cagers take out another ranked team - William World News
Monday, March 10, 2008

Cagers take out another ranked team

Lions shock No. 18 Hoosiers, earn No. 7 Seed - The Collegian
Jackson helps PSU upset No. 18 Indiana - CDT
Penn State beat #18 Indiana despite missing its two best players, junior forward Jamelle Cornley (out for the rest of the year with a chronic left knee problem) and senior G-F Geary Claxton.

The Nittany Lions have done the cruelest thing possible -- given us hope. A win over Illinois in the Big11Ten tournament could thrust them into "can't spell N-I-T without Nittany."

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posted by WFY @ 5:45 AM | |

WHOA! Penn State beats #8 Michigan State - William World News
Sunday, February 03, 2008

WHOA! Penn State beats #8 Michigan State

Lions spring upset - Patriot-News
Hubris can be funny:
STATE COLLEGE - A Lansing, Mich., TV personality named Hondo Carpenter took the Jordan Center court two hours before Michigan State's game at Penn State and pre-taped his postgame opening. It went something like this:

"Welcome to the Northwestern of the East where, before 6,000 fans, the Spartans whipped Penn State."
For the record, there was an announced crowd of 11,159 fans, some of whom rushed the court after Penn State won by nine. Final score: 85-76.

About once a year, Penn State shows signs of life and beats a men's basketball good
team. That happened yesterday when Michigan State came to town.

Now build on it cagers! The season doesn't have to be a total loss, you have a winning record and can still make the NIT.

Video! - ESPN

Penn State upsets No. 8 Michigan State - The Collegian

A giant leap - CDT

UPDATED: Big11Ten Network video



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posted by WFY @ 8:07 AM | |

PSU men's basketball is depressing again - William World News
Tuesday, January 29, 2008

PSU men's basketball is depressing again

After a promising 2-0 start to the Big11Ten season, Penn State has dropped five in a row. A season-ending injury to Geary Claxson seems to have ended any hopes of even a birth in the NIT.

After five years of being a cheerleader for coach Ed DeChellis, Patriot-News columnist David Jones is losing faith. Jones is coming to this point 2 to 5 years after many others. He notes that DeChellis is a good guy who has gone through a lot, but just doesn't connect to his players. DeChellis is a Penn State grad who got his previous school, East Tennessee State to the big dance, but has only one NIT appearance to show for his career. I was hoping it would work out, but it seems as though it won't. The best question is whether Tim Curley will open up his wallet and bring in a big-time coach.

By the way, you can watch the Nittany Lions take on Ohio State on ESPN at 7 p.m.! Not even a THON tie-in was enough (Black Shoe Diaries) to get 10,000 tickets sold.

I'll probably be watching the Capitals.

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posted by WFY @ 12:06 PM | |

STOP THE PRESSES! When Penn State loses just ONE football game, Dave Jones wants radical changes, from Joe Pa's resignation to overhauling the strength and conditioning programs to questions about who should be leading the entire athletic department.

But we have 5+ seasons of literally pathetic basketball, with no big time recruits and ZERO NCAA tournament appearances and now Mr. Jones thinks a change needs to be made?!?! What a revelation!

# posted by Anonymous The Maryland Bureau Chief : Tuesday, January 29, 2008 12:59:00 PM  

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Talkin' trash about Badger basketball - William World News
Tuesday, January 15, 2008

Talkin' trash about Badger basketball

I will admit that I don't care enough about Penn State basketball to make a bet on them. In lieu of a wager with dl004d like one we have for football, I'm just going to blindside him with some trash talk.

The Nittany Lions are going to make the Badgers pay in tonight's game at Bryce Jordan Center. Penn State is rolling down the road to mediocrity and they aren't going to stop until there is some Badger road kill behind them. Wisconsin is going to be blinded by the Lions film-strip inspired uniforms. Prepare to be intimidated by nearly announced 9,000 fans! Just watch out dl004d, the Nittany Lions aren't going to make only 47.2% of their free throws this time -- they'll bust through the 60% threshold. We're talking unstoppable. Come late February, you won't be able to spell Nittany without N-I-T baby. The Badgers are just a speedbump along the way.

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posted by WFY @ 5:18 PM | |

Nicely done!

# posted by Blogger DCSportsChick : Tuesday, January 15, 2008 5:59:00 PM  

Well that didn't work out to well. Not at all.

# posted by Blogger WFY : Wednesday, January 16, 2008 5:40:00 AM  

I should have had you over for the game. It would have been a lot of fun... for me. As it was, the game barely held the attention of the crowd of Wisconsin fans in my living room.

# posted by Blogger dl004d : Wednesday, January 16, 2008 9:09:00 AM  

Perhaps next time, provided it is on at a decent hour.

# posted by Blogger WFY : Wednesday, January 16, 2008 11:25:00 AM   Post a Comment

Beano Watch 01.09.2008 - William World News
Thursday, January 10, 2008

Beano Watch 01.09.2008

Carroll H. Cook ('54 Pitt) had his post-bowls chat yesterday adn answered one Penn State question.
Mikey (Philly): Beaner, PSU returners 19 starters. Picking them again to play in the Championship Game???

SportsNation Beano Cook: No. The schedule will be tougher, playing at Wisconsin and Ohio State. The Buckeyes have almost everyone back. Penn State has not won at Ohio State since entering the Big Ten. What makes you think it will happen next year? It could, but I don't think so. Don't make your reservations to the Orange Bowl quite yet.
Given that Beano picked Penn State this past season, I'm quite happy he didn't again. I also agree that one has to go with the Buckeyes in the Big11Ten. However, if he is saying don't make your reservations for the Orange Bowl yet, well that means you might want to call AAA.

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posted by WFY @ 5:40 AM | |

PSU men's basketball improving - William World News
Monday, January 07, 2008

PSU men's basketball improving

Difference makers - CDT
Rebounds, second chances lift Nittany Lions past Illinois
After losing three in a row on national television over Thanksgiving, the Nittany Lions are playing well. They have won their first two Big11Ten games, both on the road, to move up to 10-4. Half a dozen more wins and I'll be saying "you can't spell Nittany without N-I-T."

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posted by WFY @ 12:27 PM | |

NHL in Beaver Stadium? - William World News
Friday, December 21, 2007

NHL in Beaver Stadium?

I always through it would be pretty cool if there was a "battle for Pennsylvania" at Penn State's Beaver Stadium between the Philadelphia Eagles and Pittsburgh Steelers. Now I find out from Eric McErlain of Fanhouse that the Flyers are considering hosting the Pengyunz at Beaver Stadium next season. Michigan State did this in 2001 when they hosted Michigan.

Forgive the pun, but that would very cool, even though I can't stand either team. People still talk about what State College was like during the 2000 playoffs between the two teams, apparently it was quite a scene. I had graduated by then. Hopefully, this could be used as an opportunity to advance the cause of varsity hockey at Penn State. A well-placed source at Penn State told me that the money is there for a new arena, but the administration wants to hold off on building for a few years.

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posted by WFY @ 12:52 PM | |

Lady Spikers win national title - William World News
Sunday, December 16, 2007

Lady Spikers win national title

PENN STATE WINS NATIONAL TITLE - CDT
For the first time in eight years, the Penn State women's volleyball team has won the national championship! The Lions beat Stanford in Sacramento. Just by coincidence, the last time they won it, the football team played Texas A&M in the Alamo Bowl. Deja vu all over again!

While we were in Muir Woods yesterday (more later), I was asked if "we were going to beat Stanford" on two occasions. I was wearing my Penn State hockey sweater at the time. One woman, a Nebraska fan, offered us a pair of tickets to the championship match; she didn't need them because the Cornhuskers were eliminated by Stanford in the semi-finals, Penn State beat Cal to advance to the title game. We declined the tickets, preferring to spend the evening in San Francisco instead of Sacramento.

Mark Kreidler of ESPN describes the team in his column, Nittany Lions lay it all on the line in NCAA title win
SACRAMENTO, Calif. -- Loose is one thing. Loose is calm, relaxed, easily focused. What the Penn State volleyball players do, when they really get going, is something closer to frantic than loose. It's like a jailbreak, with the screaming and the fist pumping. Lots of yelling -- almost all of it at each other, and almost all of it to the good.

Or, as sophomore setter Alisha Glass explained it with a smile, "The other night, we were screaming and yelling while we were still warming up on the sport-court outside the gym. The other team is probably going, 'We haven't even stepped on the court.'"

Bad news for the other team: Penn State eventually steps on the court.
Sweet.

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posted by WFY @ 10:54 AM | |

My Hokie co-worker's desk this morning - William World News
Thursday, November 29, 2007

My Hokie co-worker's desk this morning

Hokies PWNED!

I thought I'd let him know who won. See, Penn State basketball can be fun!

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posted by WFY @ 6:20 PM | |

Penn State beats Virgina Tech - William World News

Penn State beats Virgina Tech

Walker leads Lions past VT - The Collegian
Mediocrity gives the Nittany Lions a warm welcome back following last night's 66-61 victory over Virginia Tech. Mike Walker had 17 points off the bench to earn Penn State's second Big11Ten/ACC Challenge win in the history of the tournament. Progress!

Even more important than representing the conference with honor (something only two other schools did this year) Penn State assured me bragging rights over the guy in the cubicle next to me.

Up to the Challenge - CDT
Va. Tech honored - The Collegian

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posted by WFY @ 5:37 AM | |

Hoops: PSU vs. VT at 9:30 on ESPN2 - William World News
Wednesday, November 28, 2007

Hoops: PSU vs. VT at 9:30 on ESPN2

Hokies gobble into Happy Valley tonight - The Collegian
This is a big one! Bragging rights between me and the co-worker in the cublicle next to me are on the line. If it didn't start so late, I'd watch it.

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posted by WFY @ 12:09 PM | |

Cagers lose again - William World News
Friday, November 23, 2007

Cagers lose again

Penn State blew a double-digit 1st half lead and lost to Rider; final score 82-73. I even wore one of my Penn State basketball jerseys.

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posted by WFY @ 12:44 PM | |

Cagers televised at 10:30 - William World News

Cagers televised at 10:30

Penn State's men's basketball team is on ESPN2 at 10:30 a.m. They are playing in the Old Spice Classic this weekend. Yesterday, they fell to South Carolina (Black Shoe Diaries) in a game I saw bits and pieces of on ESPN. I think they play Rider this morning.

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posted by WFY @ 6:05 AM | |

You know it is a tough night when 51 saves are not enough - William World News
Tuesday, November 06, 2007

You know it is a tough night when 51 saves are not enough

0711030068
ANNAPOLIS, Md. -- We hadn't seen the Penn State hockey club, generally known as the Icers, in about five years, so when we found out they were going to be nearby, we made sure to see them. Last weekend, they played a Friday and Saturday series with Navy, winning both games. We caught the Saturday night match-up at McMullen Arena. [flickr set: Icers: Penn State at Navy]

Penn State got off to a strong start, scoring the first goal early. Surprisingly, Navy responded soon after, but the tie didn't last long. Penn State netted another goal and went into the break up 2-1. Most telling was the Icers 17 shots to the Middies six.

The second period would be more of the same as the faster Icers dominated with speed and precision passing. In the third period, the Icers scored their final two goals while shorthanded. In total they had 57 shots on the night, while Navy had a respectable 30.

The Icers are ranked #3 in ACHA Division I. By the way, in May I spoke with someone close to the program and asked about getting a new hockey arena built which would be necessary for the Icers to move up to varsity, Big11Ten/NCAA competition. He or she said there is a lead gift for construction, but the university is holding off on big new construction projects for a while. Someday...

Icers show discipline during weekend domination - The Collegian

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posted by WFY @ 5:54 AM | |

Icers in Annapolis - William World News
Thursday, November 01, 2007

Icers in Annapolis

Friday and Saturday night, Penn State's hockey team will be playing Navy in Annapolis.
The No. 2 ranked Penn State Icers continue their road trip and ESCHL schedule this weekend with two games against the United States Naval Academy. The teams square off on Friday and Saturday nights at the McMullen Ice Arena in Annapolis, Md., with both games starting at 7:00 p.m.
We'll be there Saturday night.

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