November 21, 2009
After winning three straight to start the season, the Bulls dropped their first game Friday night 69-66 to the Gamecocks in the second round of the Charleston Classic.
USF (3-1) got a combined 35 points from its two big men, Gus Gilchrist and Jarrid Famous. Dominique Jones added 17 in a losing effort.
The Bulls led 35-29 at halftime but the Gamecocks opened the second half with a 15-6 run.
USF plays UNC-Wilmington on Sunday at 3:30 p.m.
-PN
November 19, 2009
USF got a combined 38 points from Dominique Jones and Augustus Gilchrist to beat Davidson in the first round of the Charleston Classic tournament Thursday night.
Jones also had 10 rebounds, 6 assists, and 3 steals and Jarrid Famous had a team-high 11 rebounds.
USF (3-0) next plays on Friday, and will face the winner of the LaSalle/South Carolina, which tips off Thursday at 9:30 p.m.
-PN
November 16, 2009
Not that this really means anything at this point, but ESPN.com projects bowl-matchups after every weekend, based on a team’s current status in its conference.
Mark Schlabach of ESPN has USF in the International Bowl against Northern Illinois, while Bruce Feldman has the Bulls facing South Carolina in the Papajohn’s.com bowl. Brian Bennett, ESPN’s Big East blogger, also has the Bulls in the International Bowl, which places the Big East conference with the MAC.
The Papajohn’s.com bowl ties the SEC with the Big East. USF played East Carolina in the Papajohn’s.com bowl in 2007, winning 24-7.
-PN
November 16, 2009
Kickoff will be at 3:30 p.m. Eastern for USF’s showdown with Miami Nov. 28.
The game will be broadcast by ABC.
Additional tickets: USF has put an additional 1,400 tickets on sale for the USF-Miami game after Miami returned a portion of its alllotment. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased though gousfbulls.com.
-PN
November 13, 2009
Since losing 3-2 in penalty kicks to Notre Dame in the quarterfinals of the Big East tournament last Sunday, the Bulls have been patiently waiting to see where they will be placed in the NCAA tournament, which starts Nov. 20.
Bids for the tournament will be announced on Monday at 5:30 on ESPN News after things shake out with conference tourmanents, which end this weekend.
Despite Sunday’s loss to the Irish, the Bulls (13-3-3) are still in the top 10 of four of the five major college soccer polls.
Attinella gets big honor: USF junior goalkeeper Jeff Attinella was named the Big East conference’s goalkeeper of the year as well as a first-team all-conference selection. In 19 games this year, Attinella had seven shutouts and allowed just 15 goals.
-PN
November 12, 2009
Rutgers continues to have USF’s number.
The Scarlet Knights held the Bulls to 159 total yards and forced four USF turnovers in a 31-0 win in Piscataway, New Jersey Thursday night.
Rutgers has outscored USF 83-16 in the teams’ past two meetings.
The Scarlet Knights held the Bulls to just 30 rushing yards, while gaining 153 on the ground. USF redshirt freshman quarterback B.J. Daniels completed just 7 of 17 passes for 129 yards and had two picks.
After starting the season 5-0, USF has lost three of its past four games. With the win, Rutgers is now bowl eligible while USF still needs one more win.
-Phil Neary
November 5, 2009
Despite this being the first post season match for the Bulls in 2009, Coach George Kiefer approaches it as just another game.
“We treat every match like it’s our last so the preparation is no different for us,” Kiefer said. “We are just trying to get better every game.”
USF and Marquette faced each other this season and played to a 1-1 tie on Sept. 18 at the USF Soccer Stadium.
Kiefer said his team is anxious for the rematch.
“Playing Marquette is a great opportunity for us,” he said. “Our players felt like they should have played better the last time we faced (Marquette). We were not happy to come away with a tie.”
Senior forward Zak Boggs said it wasn’t a good night for USF.
“I don’t want to dwell on the past but a lot of things didn’t go right for us that night,” Boggs said. “We are all itching to get on the field to hopefully come away with a big win.”
If the Bulls (12-3-2, 6-3-2) earn a victory over Marquette tonight, they would travel to South Bend to play Notre Dame (10-7-1, 8-3-0) in the quarterfinals on Sunday.
USF defeated the Fighting Irish 2-1 on Sept. 20 at the USF Soccer Stadium.
No matter what happens in the Big East Tournament, however, Kiefer feels the 2009 regular season has been a huge success
“If you asked me before the season where I thought we would be at the end after losing five seniors from last year, I wouldn’t have thought we would be 12-3-2,” he said. “I am extremely proud of our team for the way they have played so far this season.”
Last year, South Florida was chosen to host the Big East Tournament’s Final Four and the Bulls won the championship. This season, the semifinals and finals will be held in Morgantown, West Virginia.
If the Bulls are to repeat as conference champions in 2009, they will have to do it away from the USF Soccer Stadium – where they are 23-0-4 in their last 27 home matches.
Boggs believes that winning the Big East Championship last year has nothing to do with 2009, and that USF will really need to be at the top of its game throughout the tournament if they are to repeat.
“This is a completely different season,” he said. “All year we have played with a target on our backs and that is what we wanted. It has helped us improve our game on so many levels, including mental toughness which is what we are going to need to win another title.”
-Joel Leventhal
October 30, 2009
Well there’s a welcome sight for Leavitt. Eric Schwartz just knocked through a 44 yard field to make it a two possession game. Schwartz is 3 for 3 in field goals tonight and 6 for 9 on the year. Schwartz hit a 50 yard field against Cincinnati.
-PN
October 30, 2009
Daniels hit freshman Sterling Griffin for a 5-yard touchdown pass to extend the lead. Daniels has three touchdown passes today, a career-high.
-PN
October 30, 2009
West Virginia scored on an 11-yard touchdown run from quarterback Jarrett Brown. The Moutaineers elected to not go for two and USF still maintains a 1-point lead early in the third quarter.
-PN
November 8, 2008
Greetings folks. Quick note that there is Volleyball to pay attention to this weekend. Compliments to correspondent Will McLaughlin…..
USF volleyball coach Claire Lessinger said she has noticed two things different in her team this week. It’s Energy and Defense.
They’ll need that when they travel to play St. John’s and Connecticut this weekend.
USF (15-10, 5-5) comes into this weekend tied for eighth place in the Big East conference while Connecticut (18-7, 9-3) rests in fourth. Lessinger knows that this weekend will be challenging, but is very optimistic with the way practice went this week.
“The energy here is really good,” Lessinger said. “The past two losses weren’t bad losses, and we’re taking a lot of good things out of them. We are feeding off of the positives, and working on our team defense. I have a lot of faith that we’re going to be able to do what we need to do.”
The Bulls will need positive energy Friday. St. John’s (18-7, 9-1) comes in with sole possession of first place in the Big East.
Last weekend, the Bulls team defense was exposed in losses to Cincinnati and Louisville. Lessinger said that her team has solely focused on defense this week in preparation for the Red Storm.
“Defense wins championships,” Lessinger said. “It is something we need to pride ourselves in. We need to be more efficient on keeping balls alive, and that’s what we’ve been working on this week.”
Freshmen outside hitter Alli O’Connor believes the team grew up a lot after the losses last weekend, and believes that this week has brought positive things out of the squad.
“The two losses this past weekend really pointed out what we needed to work on,” O’Connor said. “I think we have gotten better in practice this week, and hopefully we will carry that into the weekend and get a win.”
Senior middle blocker Nakia Williams is very confident in the defensive development of the team.
“We have improved our defense every day in practice this week,” Williams said. “We feel like we can go toe to toe with St. John’s and Connecticut and we’re going to play really hard this weekend.”
- Will McLaughlin
Correspondent
November 15, 2008
Greetings all,
It’s been a heavy day. I’m sure all of you have heard of USF’s 49-16 loss to Rutgers at Raymond James Stadium.
Not to worry fans! We have made the trip over to the Sun Dome, and are ready for tonight’s first women’s basketball regular season game.
USF returns seven girls from last year’s 16-16 team. Coach Jose Fernandez has taken the program to five straight postseason appearances, and with the addition of some good newcomers, he’s hopeful they do the same this year.
It all begins tonight with Central Connecticut. CCU is coming off a disappointing season, although coach Beryl Piper is in her second season with the program. CCU went 4-25 last year.
Live from the Sun Dome
-K.K.
November 12, 2008
You’ve got football against Rutgers (by the way log on for the live blog!)
You’ve got the men’s and women’s basketball teams tipping off the regular season this weekend.
However, the biggest story of the weekend will be the USF soccer stadium hosting the semifinals and finals of the Big East tournament here in Tampa. Not to mention the Bulls have actually made it into the semis.
The tournament is going to slate Depaul v. St. John’s at 5:00 pm on Friday night with USF v. Notre Dame immediately following the game (probably about 7:00 pm.) The final will be played on Sunday at noon.
I talked to Coach Kiefer today about his thoughts on being able to play and host the Big East Championships.
“This is a huge opportunity for our program,” he said. “My thanks goes to Doug Woolard for putting in that bid to host this thing. To have an athletic director to take the initiative to host it is great, and obviously it put pressure on us to get there.”
Welp folks, they got there alright.
USF compiled a 12-4-2 record this year, and defeated Georgetown 2-1 in the quarterfinals to clinch the spot in the final four.
It may be tough sledding for the Bulls; however, because the last time the Fighting Irish and the Bulls met, it was a 5-0 route by the hands of Notre Dame. Kiefer said that he thinks playing at home will play a big factor though.
“The crowd is huge for us,” he said. “The students have been great for us this year. We could really use their support on Friday. In a game like this there is going to be adversity, and the times where things aren’t going well, the crowd will lift you up.”
Once again, you’ll want to log on right here Friday night for the best up-to-the-minute coverage of the game. We’ll be able for chat so be prepared to have your say on the game while it’s taking place!
For a full preview of this game log onto www.usforacle.com or pick up Thursday’s edition of the Oracle.
- K.K.
November 12, 2008
Greetings folks … a follow up from yesterday’s report in the Oracle.
Yesterday we reported that despite the Bulls receiving their fifth expected signing in forward Jessica Monroe, coach Jose Fernandez said there would be a sixth signing this week.
That sixth signing is expected to be Aleshia Flowers. Flowers is a six-foot forward from Judson High School in Converse, Texas.
While she has been verbally committed to South Florida, paperwork has not been filed to call the signing official. The early signing period began today, and will run until November 19th. Fernandez said Flowers will be USF’s sixth and final signing.
The Bulls have already received verbals from forwards Tahira Johnson and Monroe, as well as guards Tiffany Conner, Kaneisha Saunders, and Sequoyah Griffin.
Suprisingly, with the addition to Flowers, the only in state recruit of the 2009 class will be Saunders who is from Palm Beach Gardens.
-K.K.
December 6, 2008
First off, the South Florida women’s basketball team moved to 7-1 with a 99-71 win over Florida International last night at the Sun Dome.
The big difference this year for the Bulls has been without a doubt senior guard Jazmine Sepulveda, who scored 24 in last night’s victory. The way she’s developed as an influence on the team, this season, has been key to the start of the team. In the first eight games she leads the team in steals (27) and assists (35), and is second in scoring (13.8 ppg). The team will have a finals week break and then face North Florida at home on Sunday Dec. 14.
It’s a big day for men’s soccer as the Big East Champions travel up to Wake Forest to face the top ranked Demon Deacons in the elite eight of the NCAA Tournament at 4:30 p.m. I’ll be sure and try to get a hold of Coach George Kiefer after the game, and update you all on what’s going on. If the Bulls win, it would be mark the first ever Final Four appearance by USF. The Final Four is held in Frisco, Texas.
Don’t forget that men’s basketball is in action, as well. A big in-state affair between USF and UCF in Orlando. It is the second of a two game road trip for USF. The Bulls lost a close one to UAB 78-77 on Wednesday. If there is such a thing as a morale victory, that could be considered one. UAB played pretty well in New York in a preseason tournament at Madison Square Garden. They lost a close game to top ten ranked Oklahoma. USF (3-2) have a substantial lead in the series (18-4) over UCF (3-3). Tip-off is set for 7:00 p.m. tonight.
All this leading up to football tonight at 8:00 p.m. It will be a cold one in Morgantown with conditions predicted to be in the 20’s and perhaps snowing.
USF’s defense will be looking to continue its success against the spread attack of West Virginia. It must be preperation, said a lot of the players this week, and the way the defense practices without a ball all week. Senior safety Carlton Williams said that the Bulls just work on positioning and assignments. If everyone does their job, he said, Pat White and the Mountaineers can be stopped. He also said this game is his favorite.
“I love playing West Virginia,” he said. “It’s a battle of athletes. They have their athletes out in space, and us with our athletes. I look forward to it every year, and it’s going to be a great game, Saturday.”
That will be the big matchup. Particularly the linebackers and secondary of USF vs. the athletes of West Virginia. Containment of Pat White and running back Noel Devine (a Florida native) will probably be the big key.
Of course, handling the tough conditions will be a big factor, as well. However, perhaps USF has a pyschological advantage in this game considering they’ve won two straight over WVU, including that 24-19 win in Morgantown in 2006.
We’ll see you later, and enjoy the games today.
-K.K.
November 18, 2008
Greetings out there folks …
We are live from the USF Sun Dome tonight set for USF v. Stetson.
Coach Jose Fernandez has his team at 2-0 after they won the USF shootout this past weekend. Stetson enters the game at 1-1. The Bulls have dominated the past two meetings between the two teams, winning by a combined average margin of 42.5 points.
USF is on fire offensively, and defensively, for that matter. They’ve racked up a combined average of 97 points, per outing, this season. Defensively, USF has 43 steals.
The Hatters and Bulls are ready to tip soon … we’ll be back mid half for an update.
Feel free to comment and talk hoops, regularly, i’ll be here to talk.
-K.K.
November 13, 2008
Greetings folks … it’s nearly midnight but there is some news we need to pass along. The USF football team has officially lost three members for the remainder of the season due to injury.
The most noteable is kickoff specialist Justin Teachey. Teachey has been struggling in recent weeks with a nagging quad injury, and the USF coaching staff confirmed he will be done for the season.
Now most of you out there might think ‘eh big deal.’ However, consider in the Bulls’ first loss to Pittsburgh that Delbert Alvarado (who most likely will take over now) was the one who kicked the ball out of bounds on a kickoff late in the fourth quarter.
Three plays later LeSean McCoy scored the winning touchdown.
My friends the fact is that this is a huge loss for USF. Coach Jim Leavitt puts a huge emphasis on special teams, and losing Teachey will only add insult to injury for this team.
Cory Grissam, a frosh D-Tackle, and walk-on special teams player Joe Herzhauser are the other two who will not see anymore action. In reality they are relatively small losses. Grissam has played minimally. Herzhauser has made a decent impact on special teams, and is a backup on the offensive line.
A note that Herzhauser’s career will end considering he is the oldest player on the team at 25.
Remember that we will be live on this blog from Raymond James Stadium on Saturday for the Rutgers game at noon.
I will open up a blurb story, and then post live up to the minute updates on what’s going on. Of course you will get plenty of ‘analysis!’
See you then. Be ready to comment and talk football.
-K.K.
November 14, 2008
South Florida has lost one of the biggest recruting battles of the 2009 football class, and they lost it to an in-conference rival.
Dual-threat quarterback Eugene Smith told Rivals.com on Monday that he’s given a ’soft verbal’ to West Virginia. Smith, a 6-foot-3 182 pound athletic player, had narrowed his choices down to USF, LSU, and the Mountaineers before giving his committment. He still received offers from schools like Michigan, Clemson, Florida, Florida State, and Oregon.
I’ve watched film on Smith, and can confirm he would be a perfect fit into USF offensive coordinator Greg Gregory’s system. The Miramar, Florida native has a mix of size, speed, and a good arm. He rushed for seven touchdowns, and threw for 2,222 yards as a junior in high school.
Smith did say that he still plans on taking a recruiting visit to South Florida. So maybe the coaching staff can work their magic, and convince him to change his mind.
So what’s this mean for the squad?
Well, it isn’t entirely a huge loss, although, it is another athlete lost to the likes of WVU. However, remember that the Bulls have a very talented freshman quarterback in B.J. Daniels, and he is expected to medical redshirt this year. From what i’ve seen … Daniels is more than capable of taking the reigns once Matt Grothe leaves the program.
A reminder … LOG ON SATURDAY AT NOON FOR OUR LIVE BLOG. WE WILL BE LIVE FROM THE PRESS BOX AT RAYMOND JAMES STADIUM TALKING FOOTBALL. COME ON DOWN AND JOIN!
-K.K.
November 14, 2008
HELLO all you USF soccer fans, and Notre Dame, as well. This is the link page for the live blog! Simply click the hedeline up top “USF SOCCER LIVE BLOG HERE” to open up the comment page.
Notre Dame senior Bright Dike scored his league leading 12th goal of the season, and the Irish lead 1-0 at halftime of the Big East Semifinals against USF at the USF Soccer Stadium.
Dike has two of the Irishes six shots in the first half. The Bulls have only managed to get one shot on goal against a stellar Notre Dame defense.
In the 19th minute sophmore Jeb Brovsky sent a through ball into a streaking Dike, who slid a low right footed shot into the back of the net to silence the home crowd for the lone goal of the half.
Once you click the link up top you’ll be in the thread, and the comment box will appear at the bottom of the page … that’s where i’ll be posting live updates.
We’re in the second half….
(REMEMBER TO KEEP REFRESHING THE PAGE!!!!!)
-K.K.
November 14, 2008
Hey folks! Joe Rienzi here, live from the men’s basketball game at the Sun Dome.
Just a quick update:
USF overcame a 12-of-31 shooting performance in the first half to go into the break with a 32-23 lead. Sophomore guard Dominique Jones was held in check, going 2-of-6 from the field and scoring six points in the first half.
At the beginning of the second half, however, he’s come to life the last five points for the Bulls, and seven overall in the first three minutes of the second half.
With 16:42 remaining in the Bulls’ season opener, USF leads 39-29.
November 14, 2008
Neither team has looked impressive tonight, but the Bulls have squandered countless opportunities to put this game away. Poor shooting — from the field and free-throw line — and turnovers have let the Mustangs, who have also been doing everything in their power to lose tonight, stick around.
It’s 53-39 with just under four minutes to play, as Jesus Verdejo just hit a huge three-pointer before the final officials timeout.
Bad news for USF, as Alex Rivas, who had offseason surgery on both legs, was slow getting off the floor and is in obvious pain. Coach Stan Heath said he was still trying to get back into playing shape earlier this week, so he may just be sore. He walked back to the bench with an obvious limp, so we’ll keep an eye on that.
November 14, 2008
Francisco Aristeguieta scored two goals for South Florida, and the Bulls defeated Notre Dame 2-1 at the USF Soccer Stadium on Friday night.
The win secures USF’s spot in Sunday’s final against St. John’s at the USF Soccer Stadium.
For a full recap of all the action, scroll down and click on the live blog link!
Then you can check out all the comments, as I was keeping you all up-to-date minute-by-minute on the action.
For a full gamer log on to www.usforacle.com later tonight.
-K.K.
November 16, 2008
Greetings from the Sun Dome …
We are all set here just minutes from tip-off for this Sunday final of the “USF Shootout,” between South Florida and Loyola (Maryland).
A quick reset of how these teams got here. Both, obviously, won their semifinal games on Saturday night.
Loyola defeated Harvard 78-69 in the early game, and had junior Kaitlin Grant drop 21-points.
USF’s victory was a bit easier. They beat Central Connecticut State 100-48, and had newcomers Janae Stokes and Alexis Givands drop 20-points a piece. The 100-point total was the highest for a season opener under coach Jose Fernandez.
USF is dressed in their all white get-ups, while Loyola is dressed in the all green uniforms.
I’ll be back with an update soon …
-K.K.
November 14, 2008
Coming into tonight, the South Florida volleyball team had one mission. Win and stay alive in the hunt for a Big East tournament spot.
Mission accomplished.
Behind an electric crowd at The Corral,USF defeated the Seton Hall Pirates (14-14, 6-7) in five sets, and jumped into the 8th spot in the Big East standings. The top eight in the conference make the tournament.
“I told the girls in the locker room that this was a fun match,” USF coach Claire Lessinger said. “Tonight was definitely a team win, and they believed in themselves.”
The Bulls (16-12, 6-7) defeated the Pirates 23-25, 30-28, 25-21, 22-25 and 15-8.
Junior outside hitter Marcela Gurgel led the Bulls with 25 kills, 12 digs, and six aces. Gurgel said the win was crucial.
“This match was really exciting,” Gurgel said. “I’m so proud of my teammates. They gave it their all tonight.”
Junior middle-blocker Alli Arbogast, one of Gurgel’s teammates, recorded her first double-double with 13 kills and 12 blocks.
“We knew that we had to win this match in order to go to the tournament,” Arbogast said. “We worked well tonight, and played the kind of volleyball we’ve been striving for all season.”
The Bulls will try to reach their season goal, the Big East tournament, on Sunday when they play Villanova at 2:00 p.m. at the Corral.
If they win, then they’re in.
- Will McLaughlin
- CORRESPONDENT-
November 15, 2008
Today is Saturday, November 15th … and that means it’s gameday!
Greeting folks. We are live here at Raymond James Stadium for the live blog! Kick-off is set for noon local time.
Make sure to click the hedeline link: “CLICK HERE FOR USF FOOTBALL LIVE BLOG.” That will open up the comments page where i’ll be continually posting updates, and you can post your discussions as well!
Quick note on the temperature here. The skies have become quite blue! When we got here this morning it was raining, but it has cleared up, and although it’s hot, it should be a great day for football.
Crowd is filling in, but I would be suprised if there were 30,000 or so here today.
We’ll be kicking-off shortly. Stay tuned and check out the comments for updates on the game.
-K.K.
November 15, 2008
Matt Grothe has thrown two interceptions, one for a touchdown, and Rutgers leads 21-10 over USF at Raymond James Stadium, at half-time.
Rutgers quarterback Mike Teel has thrown for two interceptions, but had a two-yard rushing touchdown to give the Scarlet Knights a 7-0 lead early in the second quarter.
The Bulls moved the ball into Rutgers territory on the following possession, but, were held to a 26-yard field goal by Maikon Bonani to cut the lead to 7-3.
However, as it has been all game, Grothe threw the ball right into the arms of Rutgers defender Jason McCourty, who returned it for a 30-yard touchdown with 5:21 left.
Grothe, who is 14-22 with 125-yards passing, responded.
He led the Bulls on a nine play, 67 yard scoring drive, capped by Ben Williams five-yard TD run.
However, Rutgers responded with a drive of their own. Six plays, 41-yards, and it’s 21-10 at half.
November 15, 2008
They picked up right where they left off.
After going into half-time with a 21-10 lead, the Scarlet Knights scored on their opening possession of the second half to extend their lead to 28-10.
Joe Martinek’s one-yard touchdown capped off the 15-play, 82-yard drive that bled 5:16 off the clock.
-K.K.
November 15, 2008
The fact that the snap on the P.A.T. went right thru backup quarterback Greg Gregory’s hands may just sum up how this game has gone.
After falling behind 28-10, USF responded on the very next drive going nine plays and 52-yards to cut the lead to 28-16 on Taurus Johnson’s ten-yard touchdown reception.
The USF offense is still outgaining Rutgers 257-to-188 total yards with under seven minutes to play in the third quarter.
November 15, 2008
Just about the time the rain began to fall Rutgers quarterback Mike Teel capped off a five play, 48-yard drive with a 28-yard touchdown throw to tight-end Shamar Graves.
When it rains, it pours.
It was sunny when the Scarlet Knights began their drive at the USF 48, but by the time Graves crossed the goal-line with just :26 remaining in the third, it was pouring rain.
Rutgers rushed for the first four plays of the drive before going play-action, and over-the top to a wide-open Graves, who walked into the end-zone.
About 15,000 fans deserted Raymond James Stadium shortly after.
November 15, 2008
The route is officially on.
The (about) 500 Rutgers fans that made the trip from New Jersey are making their voices heard here at Raymond James Stadium after Kenny Britt’s 92-yard touchdown scamper has given Rutgers a 42-16 lead.
After receiving the ball at their own five yard-line, the Scarlet Knights gained two-yards on a rush by freshman Joe Martinek, but on the next play Mike Teel went play-action, and tested USF cornerback Jerome Murphy deep.
Murphy didn’t pass the test.
Britt, who has 163-yards and a touchdown, broke on a post-route down the center, had about a five-yard gap, snatched the ball out of the air and trucked Murphy after the reception.
Britt danced, along with the Rutgers section, across the goal-line.
9:45 left to go in the game.
November 15, 2008
Rutgers junior sensation Kenny Britt had 173 yards receiving, including a 93-yard touchdown, and the Scarlet Knights trounced South Florida 49-16 at Raymond James Stadium on Saturday.
Rutgers (5-5, 4-2), which racked up 421 yards of offense, outscored the Bulls 28-6 in the second half, after jumping out to a 21-10 lead at halftime.
USF (6-4, 1-4) was mauled by penalties and turnovers all day. The Bulls committed ten penalties for 100 yards, and turned the ball over six times.
Junior quarterback Matt Grothe threw three interceptions, including one that was returned 30 yards by Rutgers’ Jason McCourty for a touchdown to put Rutgers on top 14-3 in the second quarter.
For a full game recap just revisit out live blogs down below, or visit www.usforacle.com
-K.K.
November 21, 2008
Greetings folks …
The South Florida volleyball team suffered a three-set defeat to top seed St. John’s in the Big East tournament tonight, ending their competitive season.
The Bulls will play a non-conference game on Wednesday against Florida International at home to finish out the season, but the chances at post-season play ended on the hands of the Red Storm.
“We have to go into the offseason with a lot of fire,” coach Claire Lessinger said. “We want to win Big East titles, and what we need to do is get into shape and build on the positives from this season.”
Sophomore Allie Boaz led USF with 10 kills.
Junior Marcela Gurgel had eight digs and kills, apiece.
For a full gamer recap check www.usforacle.com Monday …
November 15, 2008
Alexis Givands scored nine of the first 11 USF points, and helped the Bulls go on a three-minute 12-0 run. USF leads 16-6 with 15:55 left in the first half.
USF has upped the pressure on CCU playing primarily in the full court press. CCU has four turnovers in four minutes.
November 15, 2008
20 of USF’s first 30 points were scored by newcomers to the squad.
Alexis Givands leads all scorers with nine points, Janae Stokes has six, and freshman Jasmine Wynne has five as the Bulls lead 30-9 mid-way thru the first half.
USF has forced Central Connecticut to turn the ball over eight times, so far.
November 15, 2008
USF scored 41 in the first 13 minutes of the game, and USF leads 47-14 with less than four minutes remaining in the first half.
The Bulls have turned up the pressure on defense playing full-court press throughout the entire game.
CCU has 13 turnovers, and are shooting only 24% from the field.
Janae Stokes and Alexis Givands, both transfers from Gulf Coast Community College, lead the team with 14 and 9 points, respectively.
November 15, 2008
Talk about a debut.
Junior college transfer Alexis Givands went 7-7 from the field, and hit 2-of-2 from 3-point range to lead USF into the half with a 53-18 half-time lead.
USF forced CCU into 16 turnovers, and held the Blue Devils to 24.4 % shooting from the field.
Janae Stokes has nine points, and Jazzmine Sepulveda and Jasmine Wynne have seven, as well.
Just a note, the highest FG % in a game for USF happened in in 1990, at 8-8 from the field.
The highest opener total under coach Jose Fernandez was 85 against Wisconsin-Milwaukee on Nov. 10, 2006.
Just a quick note, as well. In the first game this afternoon at the Sun Dome Loyala (Md.) defeated Harvard 78-69. Junior forward Kaitlin Grant led the Greyhounds with 21 points.
Assuming USF finishes off this 53-18 lead, the Bulls will face Loyala on Sunday at 2:00 p.m. at the Sun Dome.
November 15, 2008
Janae Stokes went on an 8-0 run by herself mid-way through the half, and USF leads 73-22 with 11:42 to go in the game.
Stokes has 17 points tonight, while her JUCO teammate Alexis Givands has 18.
Givands didn’t even miss a shot until the 16:56 mark in the second half.
USF remains in the full-court press, and has forced 24 turnovers in the game, so far.
Check back for a full game recap, with player/coach reaction, shortly.
-K.K.
November 15, 2008
Talk about a debut.
Newcomers Alexis Givands and Janae Stokes helped USF handedly defeat Central Connecticut State 100-48 tonight at the Sun Dome. The 100-point total marked the highest for a season opener under coach Jose Fernandez.
“We got up and down the floor tonight, and that’s the way we want to play,” Fernandez said. “If you look at the three newcomers … they played pretty well tonight.”
Givands didn’t miss a shot in the first half, and hit her first nine shots of the game en route to finishing with 20-points.
“Coach told me that I need to look to shoot from now on, so that’s what I went out and did,” Givands said.
Stokes, who transfered from Gulf Coast Community College with Givands, scored 20, as well, and hit four three-pointers. She said her success came from CCSU playing primarily in a zone defense.
“We played with high-energy tonight,” Stokes said. “As a shooter I prefer a zone defense, and I got some open looks tonight.”
Led by a 14-2 start, the Bulls jumped out to a 53-18 halftime lead. The Bulls played primarily in a full-court press defense for the entire game, and held CCSU to 25 % from the field, while forcing 33 turnovers. Fernandez said he was happy with the way the defense played.
“We played well defensively, and that’s the way we need to continue to play,” he said.
South Florida moves into the finals of the USF Shootout against Loyola (Md.). Loyola defeated Harvard 78-69 earlier at the Sun Dome. USF v. Loyola is set for 2:00 p.m.
November 16, 2008
USF’s Sebastien Thuriere had a rebound fall right to his foot and the freshman nailed the ball into the back- of-the-net, in overtime, to give the Bulls a 1-0 win, and a Big East Championship in soccer.
Thuriere scored the “golden goal” in the 96th minute and then sprinted into the arms of the celebrating student section support, all the while, coach George Kiefer was getting the gatorade bath.
The win secures USF’s first ever Big East Championship, in soccer.
For a full gamer recap, log onto www.usforacle.com, shortly.
-K.K.
November 16, 2008
USF senior Jazmine Sepulveda has eight points, two 3-pointers, and the Bulls lead 19-10 mid-way through the first half over Loyola (Md.)
Sepulveda also has one assist, and two steals.
The Bulls spent the first five minutes of the game going down in the post to starters Brittany Denson and Jessica Lawson to try to take advantage of a significant height advantage they have over Loyola. The Greyhounds started two forwards that reach 6-foot, while Denson and Lawson both are 6-foot-3.
However, after the Greyhounds cut the lead to 15-10 at the 13:00 minute mark, coach Fernandez switched to a smaller lineup of Porsche Grant, Sepulveda, Alexis Givands, Janae Stokes, and Jasmine Wynne (four-guards). The Bulls then pulled away to extend the lead to 26-10.
November 16, 2008
Behind the shooting of Sepulveda, USF has built a healthy 53-22 lead on Loyola here at the Sun Dome.
Sepulveda is 3-for-5 from the field and has ten points, two assists and two steals to lead South Florida.
Janae Stokes also has ten points.
Just after our previous update (when it was 19-10 mid-way through the half), the Bulls went on a 9-0 lead and outscored the Greyhounds 34-12 in the last ten minutes.
USF, like last night, is playing a full court-high pressure defense forcing 16 turnovers.
The Bulls already have been to the line often. They’re 10-of-14 from the stripe.
See you in the second half …
November 16, 2008
With just ten minutes left in the game USF leads 73-38 at the Sun Dome over Loyola (Md.)
Sepulveda has quieted, a bit, still with a solid 12 points, but only two in the second half. She is 2-for-2 from the free-throw line, as well.
It’s been the defense, this half, that has impressed most in terms of USF. The Bulls have strangled 18 turnovers out of Loyola, and are holding them to 37% shooting. Most of that can be attributed to the size in the post for USF. Loyola is playing with a lineup that features two 6-footers, and USF has Denson, Dalember, and Lawson who all range in the area of 6-foot-3.
In fact, the feature player for the Grehounds, 6-foot-0 Kaitlin Grant, hasn’t scored a point. Suprising, considering she dropped 21 in Saturday’s win over Harvard.
Stay tuned for a post-game recap.
-K.K.
November 16, 2008
The South Florida women’s basketball team defeated Loyola (Md.) 94-46 to win the USF Shootout tournament at the Sun Dome.
The Bulls had six players score in double-figures, with senior Jazmine Sepulveda leading all scorers with 14.
USF shot 42.9% from the field, and held Loyola to just 35.6%, as well as forcing 35 turnovers.
-K.K.
November 18, 2008
Stetson’s Jessica Bivins leads all scoring, but USF leads 20-13 over a feisty Hatters squad.
Stetson, playing a 2-1-2 variation box zone, is holding USF to 2-11 shooting from the three-point line. South Florida is being led by Alexis Givands’ six points.
Junior Janae Stokes, who just entered minutes ago, has USF’s two three pointers.
Both teams were knotted at 8-8 at the 12:00 mark, but led by Stokes’s shooting, USF has extended the lead.
Check back at halftime, and post a comment or question at anytime on the thread.
November 18, 2008
And the USF offense continue’s to flourish.
The Bulls have managed to put up 54 points, and lead the Stetson Hatters 54-33 at halftime here at the Sun Dome.
South Florida is led offensively by senior Jazmine Sepulveda’s 17 points.
After it was 14-11 at the 12:20 mark, USF went on a 17-4 run in four minutes to extend the lead to 31-15 at the 8:24 minute mark.
Then the Bulls really began to click offensively, putting up 23 points in the remaining eight minutes. This is the third time in three games USF has scored 50 points in the first half. Just a reminder, coach Jose Fernandez has only one-year on his contract after this year … perhaps motivation to score points?
Sepulveda has already eclipsed her season high of 14, here in the first half, and her career high is 26.
Anyways … USF up by a good margin, we’ll be back for the 2nd half.
November 18, 2008
Don’t call me crazy, but with the Bulls leading 75-43 with 12:00 remaining, i’m going to take the liberty of saying this one may be out of reach.
USF’s two senior two guard tandem of Shantia Grace and Jazmine Sepulveda lead the way with 17 and 19, respectively.
Defensively, coach Jose Fernandez has ceertainly made it a point to shutdown Stetson’s Tierra Brown, who scored 13 last year on USF. Brown has only 5 points in the game. We’ll try to find out after the game just how USF approached that tonight.
Check back with full stats, and gamer after the game.
November 18, 2008
This USF women’s basketball team can score some points.
The Bulls defeated Stetson 103-55 at the Sun Dome tonight.
For a full recap, and reaction, pick up your daily Oracle, or log on to www.usforacle.com tomorrow.
November 23, 2008
Happy Sunday to you all!
The Oracle is set for a busy day of blogging as we will be set up live twice today for USF coverage. First, the women’s basketball team will take on Coppin State at the Sun Dome at 2:00 p.m. Then, it’s live from Raymond James Stadium at the 6-4 Bulls take on UConn tonight at 8:00 p.m.
Stay tuned for live updates throughout the day!
-K.K.
November 23, 2008
After letting Coppin St. take a 2-0 lead on the first possession of the ball game, the South Florida women’s basketball team went on a 13-0 run. The Bulls now lead 23-5 at the 11:38 mark here at the Sun Dome.
Shantia Grace leads all scorers with 11 points … including three 3-pointers.
USF has scored 100 points twice in the first three games. Perhaps they will do the same today.
Interesting side note that two of the top three scorers on the team, newcomers Alexis Givands and Janae Stokes, have not played yet. We will certainly keep you updated on the situation later today. Both are sitting on the bench and are dressed. Givands has started all of the previous three games this season.
-K.K.
November 23, 2008
Senior guard Shantia Grace has six 3-pointers, tying a USF single-game record, and 27 points in the first half as the Bulls lead Coppin State 57-17 at the Sun Dome.
It’s tough to say what’s been most impressive about this USF women’s basketball team. As of right now, the Bulls are on pace to score 100 points … again. They’ve scored 100 points twice already this season.
Yet, with the 12 steals already this half, USF has 69 steals on the season. Coach Jose Fernandez, again, is playing the full-court press, and doing so, well.
Shantia Grace has already tied the USF single-game record for three-pointers made, in the first half today. Grace has six three-pointers. She’s 10-14 from the field and 6-9 from beyond the arc. Also, she has four assists and 3 steals.
As a team the Bulls are shooting 60.5 % from the field, while holding Coppin St. to only 27.3 %.
A note that USF will be heading to the Virgin Islands this week to take part in the Paradise Jam, where they’ll play against the University of California, Iowa and Texas Tech.
-K.K.
November 23, 2008
Just one minute into the game senior guard Shantia Grace nailed her first three-pointer and cracked a smile, as she jogged back to the other end of the court.
She had a lot to smile about on Sunday.
Grace hit eight three-pointers — breaking a school single-game record —to lead the Bulls to a 95-41 destruction of Coppin State on Sunday.
At the 16:17 mark, in the second half, she hit the record breaking three-pointer to put USF up 66-21. Grace then went on to break the all-time school record for most points scored in a game, finishing with 44.
Take things into perspective a bit, though, because the four opponents the Bulls have defeated have a combined record of 4-9.
They’ll face much stiffer competition next week when they face Texas Tech, Iowa, and currently ranked No. 7 University of California in the Virgin Islands.
OFF TO RAYMOND JAMES STADIUM! See you there!
-K.K.
November 23, 2008
Greetings folks …
We are live and set for tonight’s matchup between UConn-USF at Raymond James Stadium. Kickoff is set for just after 8:00 p.m.
Tonight’s delicacy? Well, of course, in the spirit of the week it was turkey, potatoes and all the fixins’! As for the Bulls, the delicacy will be the Huskies.
The big matchup tonight will be USF’s 5th ranked rush defense v. Connecticut running back Donald Brown. Brown leads the country in rushing yards with 156.2 per game. So watch out for that.
Feel free to post your comments on the story pages, and discuss football with either of us in the press box.
-K.K. & J.R.
November 23, 2008
5 plays. 30 yards. 2:23.
That’s how long it took USF to take it’s first lead on an opponent since the Louisville game weeks ago. Ben Williams capped off the drive with a 3-yard touchdown run, and USF leads 7-0 early in the first quarter.
On senior night, it was the sophmore Dontavia Bogan who stole the early spotlight. Bogan returned the opening kickoff 64-yards down to the UConn 30.
Junior Matt Grothe, who looks good despite a lingering foot injury, hooked up with senior Taurus Johnosn on a 22 yard throw and pass in the drive.
-K.K.
November 23, 2008
Ben Williams scored on a 3 yard touchdown run and USF leads Connecticut 7-0 at Raymond James Stadium after the first quarter.
Williams capped off a 5 play 30 yard drive on the Bulls’ first possession of the ball game.
The USF defense has obviously made it a priority to stop UConn running-back Donald Brown. Brown leads the nation in rushing, but only has 19 yards on six carries, so far. The Bulls are still playing in the nickel look, but senior safety Carlton Williams is serving more as an outside linebacker than he is a safety to helpe with the run defense.
Junior quarterback Matt Grothe has connected downfield on two occasions. First, hitting Taurus Johnson on a 22 yard completion on the scoring drive, then hitting AJ Love on a 29 yarder just as the first quarter ended.
-K.K.
November 23, 2008
Freshman kicker Maikon Bonani nailed a 29 yard field goal and USF leads 10-0 over UConn with 12:57 left in the second quarter.
The Bulls sustained a 11 play, 73 yard drive spanning 3:52.
On 3rd and nine from the USF 45, Matt Grothe connected with Marcus Edwards in the flat and Edwards took the ball down to the UConn 14-yard line. However, after an AJ Love dropped pass, the Bulls could only manage 3 points in their red zone trip.
November 23, 2008
Just when it looked like USF was well on its way to a shutout first half, Matt Grothe was stopped on a 4th and 1 quarterback sneak and UConn got the ball on the 45 yard line of USF. It was the best field position of the night for the Huskies.
The Huskies converted on two seperate third down situations to put the ball inside USF’s redzone, and then Huskies running back Donald Brown, who’s been silent all night, had his longest rush of the night, a 13 yard rush.
However, the Bulls finally stopped the Huskies on third down when Carlton Williams deflected a pass in the end-zone and Dave Teggart tacked on a 21 yard field goal to polish off a 12 play, 41-yard scoring drive.
November 23, 2008
Welp folks its 10-3 here at Raymond James Stadium. After USF jumped out to a 10-0 UConn cut the lead with a field goal in the dying ambers of this first half.
My quick thoughts:
Well first off, where the heck is the nations leading rusher? Mr. Brown has only 36 yards rushing on 11 carries, and most of that came on a 13 yard rush late in the second quarter. Suprisingly, USF has stayed in the nickel defense, although, Carlton Williams is playing a half OLB-Half Safety type role. Tyrone McKenzie is a man on a mission with 10 tackles here (it is Senior night after all.)
Grothe is obviously aggravated by the ankle injury he’s struggling with … he has 1 yard rushing. But he’s made up for it thru the air, I think he’s hit like six different receivers for over 100 yards passing … yikes.
But J.R. my first half compliments have to go to Mr. Dontavia Bogan … the sophomore has stolen a bit of the show on senior night with his kickoff returning ability. He took the opening one for 64-yards and the final one in the half 71-yards.
The story of the game was Brown vs. USF rush defense and I have to say that it’s the USF defense winning that battle.
J.R. what are your thoughts?
Wow. After being spoiled with a 49-16 game last week (and by spoiled, I mean we saw people score points) we have witnessed a classic defensive struggle. The Bulls have held Donald Brown in check — which is a shock to nearly everybody in the press box. However, the offense hasn’t been able to take advantage of the D’s great half.
When you hold the nation’s leading rusher to 36 yards and a starting quarterback to 28 yards passing, it usually equals good things.
The Bulls’ offense, however, has hurt itself with penalties, dropped passes and a costly, red zone interception at the end of the first half.
Grothe is obviously limited by his ankle injury, and the offensive line will need to do a better job in terms of protecting him, because “Mr. Miracle” doesn’t have the speed to scramble around and make plays.
— J.R.
November 23, 2008
On 1st and 10 from the USF 44-yard line, UConn quarterback Tyler Lorenzen pulled the ole trickeration!
The Huskies ran a reverse flea-flicker and Lorenzen found Senior Ellis Gaulden wide open downfield for a 43-yard touchdown reception to tie the game with just under three minutes left in the 3rd quarter.
Lorenzen handed the ball off to Jordan Todman on an end around, who then reversed it Andre Dixon, then Dixon pitched it back to Lorenzen and the USF defense was done.
The Bulls were hurt early in the drive when they should have stopped UConn on a third and long. Lorenzen threw an incomplete pass, but Jerome Murphy was called for a defensive holding and the Huskies got the ball back. The very next play was the score.
-K.K.
November 23, 2008
Jamal Taylor scampered on a 25-yard touchdown run and USF leads UConn 17-10 with 12:36 left in the fourth quarter.
Taylor, who has only 30 yards on the night, took the third down hand off, and broke thru the right side of the line. He danced untouched into the end-zone.
Taylor’s run capped off a 5 play, 48-yard drive spanning 2:24.
November 23, 2008
UConn responded promptly to USF’s touchdown drive with a scoring drive of its own.
Kicker Dave Teggart kicked a 35-yard field goal to cut the Huskie deficit to 17-13 with just under ten minutes to play.
USF, again, shot themselves in the foot when they should have been out of a drive. On 3rd and 4 from the UConn 40 Jerome Murphy was called for a defensive holding after an incompletion. The next play Tyler Lorenzen hit Anthony Sherman on a 28 yard pass to put them into field goal range.
November 23, 2008
Tyler Lorenzen took the snap from the shotgun, rolled to the right, and took off running. Lorenzen picked up the first down, on the 4th-and-4, but fumbled the ball after he crossed the marker. Kion Wilson and Jerome Murphy contributed to the forced fumble and it was Quentin Washington who recovered it on the 25 yard line with 5:38 remaining.
As we speak, USF is driving and running out the clock. 17-13 USF with 2:34 left, and UConn has one-timeout left. Stay tuned for recap.
-K.K.
November 24, 2008
Wow, what a day for USF athletics. Shantia Grace sets school records and the football team ‘upsets’ UConn.
USF sophomore Dontavia Bogan was named Big East Special Teams player of the week. Bogans had 135 yards on two kickoff returns in the Bulls’ 17-13 win over Connecticut on Sunday night. He also set a coupl of records in the process.
Bogans set USF’s single-season record for kickoff returns (25) and kickoff return yards (652).
Here all the links to our stories:
football: http://www.usforacle.com/bulls_muzzle_huskies
Women’s Basketball: http://www.usforacle.com/women_s_basketball_tramples_coppin_state
November 25, 2008
… Where the men’s basketball team is taking on High Point.
The Bulls have a new starter at center, with senior Aris Williams starting in place of BJ Ajayi.
We’re six minutes into a 7-7 tie, and the Bulls have some interesting formations to contend with.
High Point is running an unconventional, four-guard lineup. This gives the Bulls four players under 6′4″ to try to deal with, but the four guards are pushing the ball up the court quickly.
High Point has already made several substitutions, most likely to keep players fresh throughout the game.
J.R.
November 25, 2008
The Sun Dome is housing a surprisingly small crowd — people are probably at the men’s soccer team’s 2nd round game of the NCAA tournament — and those in attendance are watching USF trailing High Point.
USF trails 12-11, and are having trouble getting back defensively. High Point is pressing on defense and taking shots within the first 10-12 seconds of possessions on offense.
Nobody but the Bulls top three scorers have put the ball in the basket, led by Jesus Verdejo’s seven points.
November 25, 2008
The Bulls trail 23-17 with 3:45 left in the first half — a familiar feeling for USF this year, as they’ve given up early leads in both games.
USF can’t get a rebound, being beat 17-10 on the boards, and can’t catch a break. High Point guards hit two three pointers from about 10 feet behind the three-point line, as time expired on the shot clock. Coach Stan Heath looked up and smiled after the second one, knowing how lucky High Point has been — and to show his frustration in his team.
November 25, 2008
It’s halftime here at the Sun Dome, where the Bulls trail 28-24. Alex Rivas Sanchez provided a spark for USF, scoring four points in just under three minutes, but he was obviously in pain stemming from the sprained ankle he suffered against Virginia last week.
The Bulls have shot 7-of-20 from the field, and had only 13 rebounds — five of which came from freshman forward Eladio Espinosa.
Correspondent Phil Neary is at the USF Soccer Stadium, where the Bulls took an early lead against Harvard in their second round match in the NCAA tournament. Freshman Zak Boggs scored just five minutes into the match, but the Crimson’s Josh Stamatis tied it up in the 25th minute.
November 25, 2008
Sophomore guard Dominique Jones — who led the Bull in scoring last season — is coming to life. He scored four points in the first half, but has three in the first four minutes of the second to bring the Bulls within two — 32-30.
USF has two forwards on the court — Williams and Ajayi — and is trying to take the lead for the first time tonight.
November 25, 2008
Senior center Aris Williams has scored eight points during a 10-2 run that has given USF its first lead of the night, 40-34 with 12 minutes remaining.
Williams scored on two short jumpers to give USF the lead, then had a dunk and caught an alley-oop from Dominique Jones to get the crowed pumped.
Williams’ eight points on the night are one shy of his career high, set on Dec. 9, 2006 against East Carolina.
Correspondent Phil Neary says the men’s soccer game is still deadlocked at one, so both teams playing tonight are in nailbiters.
November 25, 2008
The Bulls led by as many as 11 here at the Sun Dome and hold a 51-44 lead over the High Point Panthers with 3:15 remaining in the game.
Senior Aris Williams has a new career high, as he has 10 so far.
Williams was limited by injuries last year, so seeing him elevate and get the crowd excited is something I’m sure Stan Heath will be excited about, especially with BJ Ajayi playing poorly so far this season and Alex Rivas dealing with an ankle injury.
Rivas, by the way, hasn’t come back into the game since playing three minutes in the first half — an obvious sign that his sprained ankle is worse than he thought.
November 25, 2008
Well that wasn’t easy.
Chris Howard finished with 14 points and Stan Heath escaped with a 59-46 win over High Point. The Bulls out shot the Panthers 40.4 percent to 34.1 percent.
The Panthers frustrated South Florida in the 1st half working with a primarily four-guard lineup, and took a 28-23 lead into halftime.
Also…. Reports coming from correspondent Phil Neary
At the USF Soccer Stadium the Bulls lead Harvard 2-1 late in the second half of the second round of the NCAA Tournament. Junior Zak Boggs has netted two goals. Winner moves on in the tournament.
-K.K.
November 27, 2008
Greetings folks … hope everyone enjoys a safe holiday out there.
Now, just because it’s Thanksgiving doesn’t mean you guys are off the hook. We’ve got a couple of things to go over.
There will be a LIVE BLOG tonight for the USF women’s basketball game in the Virgin Islands. It is without a doubt the biggest game of the season (and maybe in quite some time). The Bulls will tip-it-off against the No. 3 ranked Cal Golden Bears at 8:30 p.m.
Also, The Salt Lake Tribune is reporting that South Florida assistant coach Mike Canales will be interviewed for the head coaching position at Utah State sometime this weekend. Along with a couple other candidates, it is reported that Canales is one of the frontrunners to land the job.
The Aggies are also looking at San Jose State assistant Kent Baerand and USU coaches Gary Anderson and John L. Smith.
Canales’ position at USF is passing game coordinator, and it’s no suprised he’s interested in the job. He is a Utah State graduate.
Anyways … enjoy your Turkey and see you back here tonight around 8:30!
November 27, 2008
That’s what you call a reality check.
After outscoring its opponents by a margin of 52.25 points per game en route to a 4-0 record, the South Florida women’s basketball team were grounded by a 85-55 loss suffered to No. 3 University of California at the Paradise Jam Tournament in the Virgin Islands.
The Bulls’ first four opponents have a combined 4-9 record.
“We just didn’t shoot the ball very well tonight,” USF coach Jose Fernandez said. “(California) is a very very good basketball team, and you can’t shoot that bad against this kind of caliber team.”
The Bulls shot only 28 percent from the field, and had 12 turnovers.
The Bulls battled tough with the Golden Bears early in the first half, and held a 12-11 lead midway thru halftime. However, Cal was able to dish out a 20-3 run, and finished the half leading 42-24.
“You know the first ten minutes we were playing well,” Fernandez said. “But then we went to our bench, and we didn’t get much from our bench tonight.”
Fernandez said that he’s still optimistic about where the season is going for his team.
“It’s still very early in the season,” he said. “This game won’t dictate how good we will be in January.”
Cal junior Natasha Vital led all scorers with 22.
USF was led in scoring by senior Jazmine Sepulveda, who had 11 points.
USF will be in action, again, tomorrow night when they take on Iowa at 6:00 p.m.
-K.K.
November 28, 2008
Greetings folks …
We’ve got a busy night of USF athletics on the menu. We are all set for our live blog tonight at the USF soccer stadium for tonight’s NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 matchup between USF and UNC Greensboro.
USF (15-4-2) defeated Harvard in the second round 2-1 after receiving a first round bye.
UNC Greensboro (10-11-2) defeated Duke 2-0 in the first round, and then upset #9 Loyola 2-1 in overtime to advance to Saturday night’s mathchup.
Kick-off is set for 7:30 p.m. … with updates coming throughout the night.
We will be keeping you updated with what’s going on at the Sun Dome as the Men’s basketball team will be facing off against Northeastern.
Also, a quick note, the women’s basketball team is up 31-29 at half over Texas Tech in the Virgin Islands. The Bulls are 1-1 at the Paradise Jam down there. They got trounced 85-55 by No. 3 Cal on Thanksgiving night, but responded with a 82-79 overtime victory over defending Big Ten Champs, Iowa on Friday.
Again, stay tuned for constant updates from all the action going on around the country (or out of it!).
-K.K.
May 1, 2009
Hope you all enjoy the new look of the blog, compliments to our production assistant Emily Handy!
I’ll be out of town for the rest of the week.
-K.K.
November 29, 2008
We are underway at the USF soccer stadium, just under 5:00 into the game and still scoreless.
Meanwhile the USF men’s basketball team leads Northeastern 10-7 with 8:14 left in the first half at the Sun Dome.
The women’s basketball team is trailing Texas Tech 54-50 with under eight minutes to play in the Virgin Islands.
November 29, 2008
The USF women’s basketball team went on a 13-4 run in the last 4:00 minutes and that fueled 71-61 victory over Texas Tech in the final game of the Paradise Jam in the Virgin Islands.
Forward Brittany Denson set an all-time tournament record with 16 blocks in three games, and had six in tonight’s victory. She also scored 12 points and had seven rebounds.
Senior guard Shantia Grace led the Bulls, hitting 5-6 of her six free-throws and scoring 15 points.
USF was 23-29 from the free-throw line.
Meanwhile, it is scoreless at the USF Soccer Stadium in the Sweet 16 matchup between USF and UNC Greensboro.
Stay tuned for more updates!
-K.K.
November 29, 2008
If you wished you made a trip out to the USF Sun Dome tonight but just couldn’t make it, be glad you’re at home.
The Bulls finished the first half with an 11-0 run to go up 22-11, but the game has been ugly.
The teams combined to go 12-of-48 from the field and combined for 12 turnovers.
USF guard Dominique Jones leads all scorers with eight points. He could be the second USF player this month to outscore an opposing team, but it would be far less impressive than Shantia Grace of the women’s basketball team dropping 44 on hapless Coppin State.
November 29, 2008
The Sweet 16 is kind of sour.
Not a whole lot of action going on as both South Florida and UNC Greensboro have made defense a priority at the USF Soccer Stadium. It’s 0-0 at halftime.
The Spartans hold a slight edge on shots-on-goal with two, while USF has only had one.
It can be argued that USF’s one chance was the best of the game. In the 25th minute midfielder Francisco Aristeguieta fed a pass into forward Jordan Seabrook on the left side of the penalty area. Seabrook put a left-footed boot on the ball but Spartans goalkeeper Nate Berry made a great save with his leg.
A reminder, this is knockout competition. We will go to overtime – and if need be – penalties if this thing is tied after regulation.
November 29, 2008
Perhaps Cinderella has one last dance in her …
On the foot of Nirav Kadam UNC Greensboro has taken a 1-0 lead at the USF Soccer Stadium, just three minutes into the second half.
Forward Tim Masters headed a ball along around midfield and his counterpart Tebastso Manyama sent a pass into the penalty area. Kadam fielded the ball with his chest, slotted it past USF keeper Jeff Antinella and did some kind of crazy tribal dance right in front of the Spartans bench.
1-0 in the 50th minute.
November 29, 2008
UNC Greensboro still holds a 1-0 lead with 15 minutes left to play at the USF Soccer Stadium.
However, it’s been USF with two chances that could have broken the deadlock. Junior Zak Boggs connected on a header in the 65th minute off of a corner kick, but his attempt sailed just inches high above the crossbar. Then just two minutes later, junior midfielder Jorge Mora looked to be taken down inside the penalty box, but the official saw it otherwise. I can confirm that the crowd of 1,823, coach George Kiefer and the rest of the Bulls’ bench was not happy about it.
Nevertheless it’s gut-check time for USF if its to stop UNC Greensboro’s Cinderella run in this tournament. The Spartans are 10-11-2 and have already defeated #9 Loyola in the tournament.
November 29, 2008
Oh, how this matchup is heating up!
In the 82nd minute Jordan Seabrook has scored to equalize this game at 1-1. With UNC Greensboro hanging on by a thread, USF midfielder Felipe Libereros sent a cross into the box which Spartans keeper Nate Berry deflected. Junior Zak Boggs, then, headed the ball off the post, and fell right to Seabrook, who blasted the ball into the back of the net.
How do I say? Literally, 1,823 people at the stadium lost their socks.
With less than five minutes to play, this Sweet 16 matchup has taken a twist. We could be heading to overtime folks.
-K.K.
November 29, 2008
What a game we have on our hands here at the USF Soccer Stadium.
After everything looked sour for the South Florida Bulls, Jordan Seabrook put the ball in the back of the net with just eight minutes remaining to tie the game at 1-1. It was Seabrook’s sixth – and most important – goal of the season.
Nirav Kadam put UNC Greensboro up in the first half with his fifth goal of the season.
However, it’s been all USF in the second half. USF has four shots on goal, compared to the Spartans’ three.
We are set for two ten minute periods of overtime. Golden Goal (first one to score wins) rules are in play. If the game remains scorless after that. The game will go to penalty kicks.
-K.K.
November 29, 2008
Welp, that was pretty uneventful. It seems like both teams have lost steam after a very eventful game.
Neither team has produced any sort of offense in the first overtime period, and it remains 1-1 going into the final ten minutes of overtime.
Nirav Kadam scored the opening goal of the game in the 46th minute for the Spartans, and USF’s Jordan Seabrook tied it up in the last eight minutes of the game.
If this game remains scorless it will go to the dreaded (and ever so drama packed) penalty kicks.
-K.K.
November 29, 2008
USF keeper Jeff Antinella saved three Spartans penalty kicks, and sent cinderella home in penalty kicks.
The Bulls went 3-for-3 in penalties – all they needed – and Antinella denied three of UNC Greensboro’s four attempts.
South Florida advances to the elite eight next week with the win.
November 30, 2008
It isn’t getting any easier for the South Florida men’s soccer team.
After a dramatic penalty kicks victory over UNC Greensboro on Saturday night, USF found out who it will face in the elite eight of the NCAA Tournament. It’s No. 1 Wake Forest.
The Deamon Deacons (16-9-2) massacred Dartmouth 7-0 in the Sweet 16 today. So the Bulls will travel to Winston Salem to face WFU on December 6th at 4:30 p.m.
December 3, 2008
South Florida senior linebacker Tyrone McKenzie has accepted an invitation to play in the East-West Shrine Game on January 17 in Houston. The game will be played at the University of Houston’s Robertson Stadium.
The Shrine Game is predominately used for showcasing some of the best senior talent in the country, and will be a hot-bed of NFL scouts. McKenzie is among four Big East players and 26 nationally to accept invitations.
The three other Big East representatives are LB Cody Brown and DB Darius Butler (Connecticut), OL Trevor Canfield (Cincinnati).
December 5, 2008
Greetings folks….
Just wanted to note and get the word out that ‘The Analyst’ blog will be in service over winter break. While all you men and women relax (much deservedly) after a long holiday, we will be continually updating you with what’s going on around campus.
The website, www.usforacle.com, will also have periodic updates, as well. However, this will be the greatest source for your athletics sweet tooth.
Anyways happy finals week.
-K.K.
December 6, 2008
It took only 20 minutes for Wake Forest to take a 3-0 lead over South Florida in the elite eight of the men’s soccer NCAA Tournament.
On a chilly day with temperatures in the 40’s it took minutes to heat up. It’s been all Wake whether it be possession, passing or offense.
In the 15th minute Demon Decons senior Jamie Franks slid one past Bulls keeper Jeff Attinella, and then senior Sam Cronin had a great strike from about 25 yards out into the top left corner to make it 2-0.
23 minutes into the game WFU began to pour it on with another. Lyle Adams – the third senior to score for Wake – beat Attinella, and it’s all gone sour early for USF.
This might be too much for South Florida to come back, although, if there was a team to do so, you might say it would be the 2008 Bulls.
We’ll get reaction from coach George Kiefer after the game so stay tuned.
-K.K.
December 6, 2008
It was cold. It was dark. There were snow flurries.
Similarly, It was a cold and dark day for USF soccer.
The No.1 Demon Deacons scored four goals in the first half, and put South Florida’s hopes of an opportunity at a final four appearance on ice with a 5-0 win over the Bulls today in Winston Salem, North Carolina, in the NCAA Tournament.
“I’ve been around some good college soccer teams, and that’s one of the best college soccer teams i’ve seen in a long time,” USF coach George Kiefer said.
The Bulls, making their second appearance in the elite eight, ‘”dug themselves a hole” just 15 minutes into the game when Wake senior Jamie Franks slid a goal past the diving keeper, Jeff Attinella. Just minutes later the lead was extended to 2-0. Senior Sam Cronin struck a belter from about 25 yards away and beat Attinella in the top left corner.
Wake Forest (21-1-1) scored two more goals on the feet of Lyle Adams and Marcus Tracy in the first 45 minutes to please the crowd of 2,319. Every goal scorer in the game was a senior.
“(Wake Forest) forces you to play very quick,” Kiefer said. “We set out to do certain things and, obviously, we didn’t do a great job of it. The first half we played to their pressure. I think three of the goals came from give-a-ways in our own half.”
The Bulls finish the season 15-5-3, were crowned Big East Champions and reached the elite eight of the NCAA Tournament for the second time in school history. Kiefer said despite being down by so much late in the game the team still showed character.
“With the guys, I’ve never seen a team come back from something being negative,” he said. “I was very happy to see, with two minutes left in the game, that our guys were still trying to get a goal. They didn’t quit playing.
December 6, 2008
Greetings folks… Couple of updates.
The South Florida men’s basketball team dropped its third straight road game tonight in a 71-63 loss to Central Florida in Orlando. Despite sophomore Dominic Jones’ 31 points scored (tie for career high), and a 28-26 lead at halftime, the Bulls only shot 53 percent from the free-throw line. Efficiency from the free throw line has been something that has hurt this team all season.
UCF shot 44 percent from the field and had a 30 point effort from senior guard Jermaine Taylor.
USF shot only 41.5 percent and turned the ball 21 times in the loss.
Also, it has been made official (suprise suprise) that USF will play in the MagicJack St. Petersburg bowl played at Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, Florida. We all knew it was coming, yet it just had to be made “official.”
It should be a great draw for fans and the bowl itself. You’d think the Bulls would bring a lot of fan base. USF will know for sure its opponent on Sunday, but most likely it will be Memphis (6-6) from Conference USA.
The St. Petersburg bowl is played on Dec. 20, at 4:30 p.m. For more information head to stpetersburgbowl.com
December 7, 2008
Greetings folks….
Okay, so it’s nothing like selection Sunday for the NCAA basketball tournament, but this day is still one of the exciting days of the sporting year.
It’s football’s version of selection Sunday. By tonight we’ll know for sure who’s going where and who will play who. Of course, big controversy in terms of the national title implications. I will be sure to share my thoughts, feelings or concerns on that situation once everything is made official.
One thing is for sure, though. USF will be headed across the bay to play in the Magic Jack St. Petersburg Bowl.
Check on here later tonight for my “Five Most Intriguing Match-ups” for the upcoming holiday bowl season.
I’m out.
-K.K.
December 7, 2008
Well we all knew that South Florida and Memphis would end up clashing in St. Petersburg for the Magic Jack St. Petersburg bowl on Dec. 20 at 4:30 p.m. It was inevitable that would happen. The Tigers come in at 6-6, while USF is 7-5. We’ll be covering practices (which begin on Thursday) and press conferences throughout the week so stay tuned for more….
I’d like to share the five things that stood out to me tonight during the selection.
BYU vs. Arizona in the Pioneer Las Vegas bowl:
I really like the quarterback match up in this ball game. Arizona’s Willie Tuitama vs. Brigham Young’s Max Hall should be one of the best quarterback duals in the entire bowl season. This should be a high scoring affair in the ‘city of lights.’ Tuitama leads the Wildcats (7-5) with 2,763 yards passing and 21 touchdowns. Hall has done that much better, throwing for 3,629 yards and 31 td’s for the Cougars (10-2).
Prediction: The teams short circuit the entire city with an overload of offense. BYU wins 45-41.
TCU vs. Boise State in the San Diego County Credit Union Poinsettia bowl:
This could be a very, very, very good game. Boise State (12-0) is one of the few undefeated teams in the country, and they’ve got good wins over teams like Oregon, Southern Mississippi and Hawaii. The Blue Turfians (I made that up) had a decent shout for a BCS berth. Speaking of BCS … the Horned Frogs have two losses on the year (10-2) and both of those losses are against BCS teams. They lost to Oklahoma 35-10 and Utah 13-10 – both on the road – in the regular season. TCU has one of the best defensive minded coaches in the country in Gary Patterson and he’ll most likely try to slow down Boise running back Ian Johnson. Perhaps, the Broncos will run the ‘Statue of Liberty’ to crack that Horned Frog defense.
Prediction: No tricks here. Patterson and his defensive scheming prevail 23-16.
Oregon vs. Oklahoma State in the Pacific Life Holiday bowl:
Earth to San Diego … you’ve got some good games on your hands. I’m not sure what intrigues me most about this game … the uniforms or the style of offense! The Cowboys have a great quarterback in Zac Robinson, a go-to receiver in Dez Bryant and, of course, hail from perhaps the best division of a conference in history. The Big 12 has overtaken the SEC as the best conference in football, and Oklahoma State is one of the reasons for that. Don’t forget about Oregon, though. The Ducks have quietly crept up to second in the Pac-10 after putting up a 65 spot against rivals Oregon State. I have just a strange suspicion about this one.
Call me crazy but I’m going to go with the upset. Oregon prevails in the Gas Lamp District 41-38.
USC vs. Penn State in the Rose Bowl:
I’ve never been a resident of the west coast, but I’ve always been an admirer of the Rose Bowl game, and the rich tradition it carries. I’ve been to it before, and can say it’s one of the best venues in the country to see a game. I’m not sure if the Nittany Lions can win this game. I still think USC (11-1) is one of the best teams in the country, however, just seeing Penn State coach Joe Paterno there playing the Trojans will be a sight to see. The one loss for Penn State (11-1) wasn’t a surprise to me. Many people underestimate how tough it is to win at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Talent wise, the nod obviously goes to the Trojans with Sanchez, McKnight, Johnson (take a breath) and Patrick Turner. However, perhaps this is the time a Big Ten team shows up on a national stage.
Okay, that was a bit rash. USC wins 34-17.
Oklahoma vs. Florida in the BCS National Championship:
Here you go America. Here is the game you wanted. The SEC’s #1 vs. the Big 12’s … #2. Oops, the BCS did it again. Sorry folks but I stand on the side of the Longhorns who have been left out. How is it that a team beats another team head-to-head – on a neutral site – has the same record and gets jumped?
How bout this for a scenario……..
Prediction: Oklahoma wins a close one over Florida in Miami and Texas rolls the Buckeyes in Glendale! Can you say split national title in the Red River Rivalry?! That might get the blood-a-boiling.
Feel free to post your thoughts, feelings or concerns.
December 9, 2008
If you’re reading this, you’re probably A) ready to hurt me with the amount of studying you’re doing B) sick and tired of reading. Period. Or, C) Looking for an update on South Florida football.
Let’s hope the latter is on your agenda. Otherwise, I hope to divert your mind of the pressures of finals week.
Tuesday marked the inaugural formal introduction for the St. Petersburg bowl. Media from around the area gathered with representatives from the bowl itself, as well as Memphis coach Tommy West and USF coach Jim Leavitt.
We were set-up on the top floor of the St. Pete-Pier, and I must say it was a beautiful day. The view of the shoreline, and the sunny skies served as a good time to ask the question to Leavitt: What are your thoughts on being in the St. Petersburg Bowl?
“Honestly, to me, and I’m not being political when I say this, it’s is really special,” he said. “To be part of the inaugural game with a program that started some years ago is pretty special.”
It’s probably more special for Leavitt, himself, who grew up in the St. Petersburg area.
“I really appreciate the opportunity to be in this bowl game,” Leavitt said. “It’s really special for me. I grew up down the road here, and that’s powerful for me. It really is.”
It’s also special for the Memphis program, said West, who’s led the Tigers to a 6-6 record this season.
“Other than this weather right here and coming to Florida, for us, to have a chance to come and compete against the BCS is good,” he said. “To have a chance to play South Florida and play one of the teams that left (Conference USA), i’m not going to say it’s not important, because it is.”
The Bulls and Tigers have clashed before back in their Conference USA days. The overall series is tied 2-2, and the St. Petersburg bowl will serve as the rubber match.
The last time these two met was in Tampa, in 2004. It didn’t go well for USF, as Memphis claimed a 31-15 victory on that day. If you remember, a certain DeAngelo Williams rushed for more than 200 yards in that game. Ring a bell Tampa Bay Buccaneer’s fans? (*Insert Monday Night Football joke here*)
Anyways, stay tuned for more updates throughout the next two weeks for practice notes and interviews.
Also, as promised, I will be compiling a podcast for next week dedicated to the bowl game itself. We’ve been getting some questions about it, and I will set a tentative date for next Thursday to have it posted on our website www.usforacle.com. I will certainly link it from this blog, as well. We’ll have interviews with coaches and players, as well as some good discussion. As always, send your questions or comments to sports@usforacle.com and i’ll read them on the p-cast.
As we get closer to game time we’ll dive more in-depth into this match up.
Whenever you need a break from studying … you know where to go.
-K.K.
December 11, 2008
Greetings folks…
I had a chance to swing by practice today, and I sat down for a short session with men’s basketball coach Stan Heath. The South Florida men’s basketball team is 3-3 after three home wins and three road losses. The three road losses the Bulls have suffered came by the hands of Virginia, UCF, and UAB, all of those in which were by a combined margin of 11 points.
USF is led in scoring by guard duo Dominique Jones (18.5 ppg) and Jesus Verdejo (17.2 ppg).
The Bulls have received a boost to their roster as transfers Mike Mercer (University of Georgia) and Gus Gilchrist (University of Maryland) are finally eligible to play. Both will make their first appearance on Sunday when South Florida hosts Niagara at 1:00 P.M.
Oracle: Has it been tough week with final exams?
Heath: “This is really the first day where we’ve had everybody together. The exam week made practice, for us, a little sporadic. We are really trying to bring the new guys, Gus and Mike, into the fold. We want to get them as many reps as we can with the other players.”
O: How are the transfers fitting in with the team and how you play?
H: “They’re fitting in well. We’re still going to have to evolve, especially chemistry wise, and I think Mike will make the fastest and easiest adjustment. I think Gus offensively will be fine, but I think defensively he still has some things he has to improve on.”
O: How much will having some extra depth help?
H: “It’s just absolutely huge. We’ve been struggling with our depth, a lot. We’ve also struggle with scoring, and those two guys will help us a lot in that department.”
O: How would you sum up the first six games of this season?
H: “We’ve been inconsistent and have had problems finishing games. I really think, though, that we’ve played good basketball for 80 or 90 percent of games. We just haven’t been able to finish off that last 10 percent. In my opinion, it’s been depth that has hurt as in the early part of this season.”
O: What do you say to your team after losing so closely on the road?
H: “I think what we just try and tell them is that we are there, but now, we have to finish these games off. The fundamental plays are the ones that are beating us. Whether it be the free-throws, a rebound, or a simple pass, our mental mistakes have been a big issue. The important thing is that we grow and get better. If we do that, then we’ll be okay.”
O: What is your assessment of Jesus Verdejo and Dominique Jones’ play, so far?
H: “Dominique is really starting to play like Dominique can. Jesus has been very good, as well. I think it’s hard when you ask them to give so much for 40 minutes. That’s an awful lot to ask them. So with the added depth, that should help them out. I’m pleased with what they’ve done, and I’m hoping that they won’t have to shoulder so much load now.”
O: Have you seen much of Niagara?
H: “Yeah I have seen them. They’re a good basketball team. They’ll play with four perimeter players who can score. They have great quickness on the court, and we’re going to have to play really well against them. I know that they’re going to play well against us. I’m looking forward to the game.”
-K.K.
December 14, 2008
Junior Tyrone Lewis has 12 points and the Niagara Purple Eagles lead USF 32-29 at the Sun Dome.
Lewis is 4-of-7 from both the field, and the three point lead, as well. Led by three Lewis 3-pointers in the first five minutes of the ball game the Eagles jumped out to a 18-12 lead midway through the first half.
The Bulls climbed back to take the lead 25-24 with 7:38 remaining in the half.
USF is led in scoring by senior Jesus Verdejo, who has 11 points.
Stay tuned for more….
December 14, 2008
An 11-2 Niagara run midway through the second half propelled the Purple Eagles to a 70-55 victory over South Florida on Sunday at the Sun Dome.
Led by junior Tyrone Lewis’ 23 points, the Purple Eagles were able to hold the Bulls to just 37.5 percent shooting from the floor, and 15.4 percent from behind the arc.
Free-throw woe’s continued for USF, also. The Bulls shot hit only 11 of their 21 free-throws.
Despite a first half with four lead changes, Niagara led 32-29 at halftime. There were no lead changes, however, in the second half.
Senior guard Jesus Verdejo led the Bulls in scoring, finishing with 20 points.
The big story coming into today’s game was, of course, the two newcomers to the squad. It wasn’t necessarily a welcoming day, though. While junior Mike Mercer had 12 points, freshman Gus Gilchrist had only eight, and he struggled to find a rhythm all day.
-K.K.
December 15, 2008
Greetings folks…
An update for you on the podcast. Our St. Petersburg Bowl podcast will be posted on our website ( www.usforacle.com ) this Thursday, which is Dec. 18.
What you can expect is some discussion on the matchup, interviews with coaches and players, and some interesting things to watch. Of course, I will be answering your emails, as well.
If you’d like to get your say in on the matchup, send your email to sports@usforacle.com by Tuesday!
Again, Thursday Dec. 18 will be the date it is aired, and I will post the direct link here on the blog.
-K.K.
December 18, 2008
Greetings folks….
Tired of those quirky, boring, less interactive preview stories of bowl games????
We’ve come to the rescue (as we always do) with our St. Petersburg Bowl Special Podcast!
Thanks for all the emails and I did my best to pick the best three to answer (sorry but next time don’t get bounced with your email). We’ve got coaches and players talking about the match up, as well as my thoughts.
Here is the URL to the podcast (Titled: 12-18-2008):
Enjoy the game and see you on here afterward with the story!
-K.K.
December 18, 2008
Greetings folks … Big night for women’s basketball, compliments of correspondent Alex Cobb.
It was a big night on Thursday evening as the South Florida women’s basketball team defeated visiting Grambling State 126-62 at the Sun Dome.
It was even bigger for Janae Stokes.
Stokes, a junior, dropped eleven three pointers — the most in school history — and hit a career best 39 points. Stokes, however, did not let the rush of a great performance get to her.
“I appreciate that my teammates got me the ball tonight,” she said. “I really thank them for that. I always stay humble … I don’t have a big head or whatever you want to call it.”
She said despite staying humble, she feels she really proved herself in the win over the Tigers.
“Tonight’s game really showed [teammates] the kind of intensity that I have,” Stokes said.
As the Bulls approach conference play Stokes said tonight’s performance gives her confidence that she can compete at the Division I level.
The junior is in her first year at USF, after transferring from Gulf Coast Community College.
“It just lets me know that I can compete at this level,” she said.
The 126 points scored by USF set a record high in NCAA women’s basketball this season. Despite this accomplishment — like Stokes — head coach Jose Fernandez stayed humble in the glow of their success.
“We had eleven turnovers at half,” Fernandez said. “That was a concern. Our guards could have done much better … we need to continue to rebound the ball better.”
In a game that saw little offensive prowess from the opponent, Fernandez did his best to give each of his players minutes in preparation for conference play.
“You look at the minutes,” Fernandez said. “Nobody played over 24 minutes tonight. It was great to give everybody minutes and get everybody to play.”
Fernandez said in light of Stokes’ success this evening, she will still only play her regular amount of minutes per game, as the season continues.
“(Stokes’) job is to give us that big lift off the bench,” Fernandez said.”She knows her role. She comes in, and she needs to give us big points off the bench.”
At the beginning of the season, South Florida was projected to finish 12th in the Big East. However, Fernandez feels that they could really prove some people wrong at the end of this season.
“If we can continue to stay focused at the task at hand, remember this team got picked twelfth in the Big East, I think up to now we’ve proven that we’re better than twelfth,” Fernandez said.
Fernandez, however, reminded everyone that conference play doesn’t start until January.
Victories in their next four games — three of which are at home — would send the Bulls into their first conference match up against Marquette at 13-and-1.
-A.C.
December 20, 2008
Greetings folks…
We are all set up here in the press box right at kick-off. Of course, Memphis vs. South Florida for the magicJack St. Petersburg bowl live at Tropicana Field.
Now, just a quick note to consider. I walked down on the field about a half hour ago to get a feel for how the setup is arranged with the transfer from baseball to football. The infield portion of the field has been covered with a layer of field turf. However, the turf is different – and slicker – than the orginal field turf. The new turf covers about 20 yards of actual playing surface. That could be a factor in today’s game.
As for the crowd … hmm perhaps 18,000 or so.
USF brought a new wrinkle to the game, wearing white helmets today. I don’t think I’ve ever seen white helmet worn by the Bulls. Correct me if I am wrong on that.
Anyways, we’ll keep you up-to-date throughout the game.
Stay tuned for our analysis throughout the game.
-K.K.
December 20, 2008
It took the South Florida offense just 1:02 to score the first ever touchdown in the magicJacks St. Petersburg bowl.
Senior wide receiver Taurus Johnson capped off a three play, 43 yard drive with a 26 yard touchdown reception from Grothe. Initially, the play was ruled a fumble in the end zone by the officials, as Johson lost control of the ball at the pylon. However, the call was eventually overturned.
Sophomore Dontavia Bogan took the opening kickoff 56 yards to set up good field position for the Bulls in the opening drive.
December 20, 2008
Just about ten minutes into the first quarter here at Tropicana Field, and it’s already 14-0 USF. South Florida running back Ben Williams helped the Bulls with a three yard touchdown run after a 57 yard drive.
Matt Grothe hit tight-end Ben Busbee earlier in the drive on a 21 yard reception to put USF in Memphis’s territory. Grothe then hit two more receivers on double digit receptions, Dontavia Bogan and Carleton Mitchell, to put the Bulls inside the ten yard line.
December 20, 2008
Perhaps I jumped the gun a bit on Memphis.
Just minutes after USF took a 14-0 lead in the St. Pete Bowl, the Tigers put together a six play drive of their own to cut the lead to 14-7. However, it was with USF’s help.
Personal foul penalties – which have hindered USF all season – by Tyrone McKenzie and Keith McCaskill put Memphis well into Bulls territory. Mempis running back Curtis Steele then took the Tigers inside the USF five yard line, where quarterback Arkelon Hall sneaked across the goal line.
December 20, 2008
Freshman Maikon Bonani kicked a 23 yard field goal to extend the South Florida lead to 17-7, however, it’s been quarterback Matt Grothe who has impressed the most.
Grothe is 9-for-13 passing and has 130 yard through the air, while totaling 40 yards rushing on five carries.
Grothe has been able to beat the Memphis defense with ease, mostly with short crossing routes, while the Tigers play primarily in the man-t0-man defense. The largest play of the 14 play, 63 yard drive that took 5:51 off the clock was a 19 yard reception (a crossing route) to Carleton Mitchell that put the Bulls inside the Memphis ten.
The Bulls were stopped on three downs, however, and were forced to take three on the drive.
17-7 with 10:42 left in the half.
December 20, 2008
The South Florida offense has been primarily known as a quick strike offense, however, a 13 play, 77 yard drive that drained 5:24 off the clock could make a case that its getting the hang of this possession offense thing.
A 13 yard touchdown reception by junior tight end Ben Busbee capped off the drive. Busbee caught the ball around the five yard line, then ran over a Memphis defender on his way into the end zone, right in front of the USF marching band.
Busbee has 3 receptions for 36 yards, while quarterback Matt Grothe is 13-of-19 for 177 yards passing and two touchdowns.
Grothe has 48 yards rushing, as well.
Grothe has surpassed 10,000 yard total offense, which places him as only the second player in Big East history to do so in a career. Pat White was the other player.
December 20, 2008
Just when it seems USF is going to run away with this game, Memphis climbs back.
After the Bulls jumped out to a 14-0 lead, Memphis returned with a touchdown to cut the lead. Then after extending its lead to 24-7, Tigers wide receiver Duke Calhoun caught a touchdown pass on the goal line and cut the lead to 24-14 at halftime.
Sophomore Carlton Mitchell leads USF with 60 yards receiving, and Matt Grothe is 13-of-19 passing for 177 yards and two touchdowns.
For a more in depth look at things check out the blog posts below.
We’ll be back on shortly as our columnist Joe Rienzi will share his thoughts on the game.
Cheers!
-K.K.
December 20, 2008
Well, the first ever St. Petersburg Bowl is half over, and that’s a pretty good thing. Not only has the first half been unbearably long (two hours and change) but the crowd isn’t very loud, or large, and USF has been sloppy on defense.
The crowd was announced at 25,205 — convenient for a first-time game that needed to hit 25,000 — but it’s probably closer to 16,000 people. Not only that, but Memphis brought all of about 800 fans with them.
The best part of the game has been USF’s new-look uni — and the Bon Jovi song I heard in the parking lot of Tropicana Field on the way to the press box.
The Bulls have 55 penalty yards, including two personal fouls and a pass interference in the endzone, that have led directly to Memphis’ two scores.
There have been some good things, such as Matt Grothe’s 13-of-19, 176 yard, two touchdown performance. But, any game featuring a 7-5 Big East team against a 6-6 Conference USA team was bound to be a little disappointing.
As the second half draws near, the Bulls will look to knock off the penalties and put away a team it should already be destroying.
J.R.
December 20, 2008
A 37 yard field goal by Maikon Bonani extended the South Florida lead to 27-14 as the Bulls continue to rack up offensive success in the St. Petersburg Bowl here in the third quarter.
If you don’t count Matt Grothe’s quick kick in the first half, the Bulls haven’t punted yet in the game. Funny just to think of Grothe punting the ball.
Grothe has been helping in many areas, including 66 yards rushing, 186 yards passing and two touchdowns.
December 20, 2008
Dontavia Bogan got himself into the offensive party the Bulls are putting on in St. Petersburg this afternoon.
Grothe connected with Bogan on a 24 yard touchdown throw – it’s Grothe’s third today – to increase the USF lead to 34-14 with 1:50 to play in the third quarter.
It’s been the USF offense that has stolen the show, as the Bulls have 403 yards total offense, with 252 of those through the air.
Connecting the events of this game, Bogan started the game with a 56 yard kickoff return.
Sitting next to Joe Rienzi, I ask the question “is this game over?”
J.R.: “Yes”
December 20, 2008
Get the party started.
If this game can be considered important enough for a celebration, then it will be USF that will be doing the celebrating. Junior Mo Plancher just took a two yard rush into the end zone to make it 41-14 here at Tropicana Field.
Senior Grant Gregory actually manned the USF offense – which has been firing on all cylinders all day – on the scoring drive with 12:40 remaining. Most of the seniors, you would assume, will be in now as it’s their last game as USF athletes.
I’m sure we’ll get some reaction from them after the game.
41-14 with 12:40 remaining.
The Live Blog is finished for the day. I’ll be heading down to the field soon. I’m sure there won’t be much news after this.
Thanks for joining us today, and visit www.usforacle.com for the game story shortly after the game.
-K.K.
December 22, 2008
Greetings folks…
I’m taking a break for the holiday from coverage and posting. I plan on returning next weekend.
Hope everyone has a safe and enjoyable week.
On behalf of the sports desk.
Happy Holidays
-K.K.
December 27, 2008
Greetings folks …
I hope everyone had a nice holiday break. I know I sure did. I’m still recovering from the mounds of turkey, seafood buffets and days at the beach … it’s a rough life.
Anyways, i’m sure you all are just eager to get back to business as we are (unfortunately) almost ready to get back to school.
I’ll be in attendance at tonight’s USF-Iona men’s basketball game at the Sun Dome. Tip off is set for 7 p.m. so get your minds set on a story to follow soon afterwards with reaction.
This is the last non conference game for the 4-7 Bulls as they’ll host a tough first Big East game against Syracuse this Friday. Perhaps USF can capture some of that Cleveland State magic. We’ll see. Youtube that shot if you haven’t seen it.
I’m out though. I’ll see you guys on here tonight after the game.
-K.K.
December 27, 2008
I’m no genius, however, it seems to me the South Florida basketball teams’ troubles seem more clear after the first half of tonight’s game.
No, not because the Bulls are repeating the things that have hurt them all year, rather the turnaround in the two areas that have hurt them most this season.
USF is shooting 50 percent from three point range and is six-of-six from the free throw line, holding a 34-29 lead over the Iona Gaels at the Sun Dome.
On the season, the Bulls are a horrendous 29 percent from 3-point range and 56 percent from the free throw line.
USF is led by sophomore guard Dominque Jones, who is 3-of-4 from behind the arc and has 17 points. Jones, who is second on the team in scoring, went on a 8-0 last minute run. However, Iona’s Scott Machado, who has eight points and four assists, hit a layup as the buzzer sounded to end the half.
There was a new face in the USF starting lineup. Freshman guard Justin Leemow got his first career start in place of the injured transfer Mike Mercer. Mercer is out tonight with a knee injury. However, it hasn’t been the starting debut that Leemow had probably hoped for. He has zero points and only one assist in 12 minutes of play.
Welp, I’m off to polish off some brownies.
-K.K.
December 27, 2008
At times, it seemed more like Devon Clarke vs. Dominique Jones, rather than Iona vs. South Florida on Saturday night. If that’s the case, Jones certainly took the cake in this battle.
Jones scored a career high 36 points, leading USF to a 68-55 win over the Iona Gaels on at the Sun Dome.
Jones, a sophomore, was 12-of-16 from the field, 7-of-9 from three point range and 5-of-6 from the stripe.
“It just felt good out there,” Jones said. “I kind of felt like my old self again … I’m just trying to get my confidence back because I know my team needs me.”
Jones broke his previous career high of 31 with a three point shot from the top of the key with just over five minutes left in the game. The shot also gave the Bulls a 59-50 lead, their largest of the game at that time.
Freshman Justin Leemow, who made his first career start for USF, extended that lead to 11, just minutes later, with a three pointer to make it 62-51, seemingly putting the game out of reach.
It wasn’t necessarily smooth sailing for the Bulls, considering the second half alone saw four lead changes.The Gaels even led early in the second half despite trailing 34-29 at halftime.
Iona forward Devon Clarke was causing problems all night. Clarke scored 16 points, more than double his season average.
It has been rough sledding (excuse my holiday reference) for USF in the past couple weeks and wins are coming sparingly. The Bulls dropped two games out of three in Puerto Rico last weekend, and Coach Stan Heath said this win was especially encouraging.
“Physcolgically it’s huge for all of us, our team, our players and our coaches,” he said. “When we work out we’re in a P—- mood, just mad all the time, so it’s kind of good to maybe have a little bit of a smile on your face.”
The Bulls saw improvement in two key areas that they’ve struggled with this season. Coming into the game, USF was shooting 29 percent from behind the arc and 56 percent from the free throw line. On Saturday night, however, USF went 10-for-20 from three point range and 12-of-16 from the stripe.
South Florida will begin Big East play on Friday when they host Syracuse at the Sun Dome. Jones said the Big East conference is something he’s looking forward to playing on a regular basis.
“It seems like it’s going to be a really big challenge, but I think if we can stick together and play hard, then we can suprise a lot of people,” he said.
December 27, 2008
At times, it seemed more like Devon Clarke vs. Dominique Jones rather than Iona vs. South Florida. If that’s the case, Jones certainly took the cake in this battle.
Jones scored a career high 36 points and led USF to a 68-55 win over the Iona Gaels on Saturday night at the Sun Dome.
Jones, a sophomore, was 12-of-16 from the field, seven-of-nine from three point range and five-of-six from the stripe.
Game story to follow soon …
-K.K.
January 2, 2009
Greetings folks …
Just a reminder, I will be live at the Sun Dome for tonight’s Big East opener between USF and No. 14/17 Syracuse.
The Orange ( 13-1, 1-0) have already began Big East play and are coming off a 100-76 win over Seton Hall on Tuesday. And I’m sure South Florida coach Stan Heath was watching that game, as the Bulls have had the week off, coming off a 68-55 win over Iona on Saturday.
Offensively, these two teams are on opposite sides of the spectrum.
Syracuse is averaging 82.6 points per game, in comparison to USF’s 61.9 average. Perhaps the most impressive offensive statistic is the fact that the Orange have five players averaging in double figure points. More often than not, the Bulls (5-7) rely heavily on sophomore Dominique Jones to carry the offensive load.
And more often than not Jones does.
Jones scored a career high 36 points in the win over Iona, and if the Bulls want to at least contend in arguably the best conference in the nation it will be Jones who has to carry them.
Jones leads the team in scoring with 17.1 points per game.
It could be bittersweet for Heath in looking at the 2-3 zone that Syracuse runs on defense. On one hand, he’ll know what kind of defensive look he’s going to get. On the other hand, however, it’s obvious that USF struggles in playing against a zone. Heath said after the Iona win he’s been pleased with the patience of his team when given a zone look, however, statistics don’t lie.
South Florida has struggled in shooting the ball.
The team is averaging a decent 41 percent from the field, but from behind the three-point line USF is averaging a dismal 31.7 percent.
If USF wants to upset some of the top competition in the conference, it most certainly will need to be with shooting well on a night. And against a 2-3 zone, with good ball movement, USF will probably get its open looks.
The question will be: Can USF turn around its poor shooting and capitalize on its open looks tonight?
We’ll be there tonight to find out.
See you at 8:3o p.m.
-K.K.
January 2, 2009
Greetings folks …
We’re all set here courtside at the Sun Dome.
Quick note, there’s a fair amount of orange filling up the seats, and I’d be inclined to say there will be quite a bit of noise when Syracuse scores.
A reminder that tonight at halftime we are launching a new feature! I’ll be posting an audio report (in mp3 format) for you guys to listen to at half. The report will have statistics and some discussion/analysis on what I’m seeing out there in the game. Again, that will be at halftime.
Tip-off to come soon.
-K.K.
January 2, 2009
Arinze Onuaku has four points and two rebounds, and the Syracuse Orange lead South Florida 7-4 with 14:52 remaining in the first half.
Onuaku, who leads the conference in field goal percentage, has been causing problems early in the post for USF in front of an almost pro-Syracuse crowd.
The Orange haven’t trailed in the entire game.
-K.K.
January 2, 2009
Two runs of 8-0 and 9-0 in the last ten minutes of the first half have the Orange leading 33-19 at the Sun Dome.
Although USF was able to cut the lead to 24-19 at the 4:25 mark, Syracuse used that 9-0 run to pull away. Syracuse is led by junior forward Arinze Onuaku, who has nine points and seven rebounds.
Surprisingly, USF is led in scoring by senior Mobolaji Ajayi. Ajayi is well on his way to breaking his career high of 12 points with 8 points already in the first half.
STAY TUNED at halftime for our audio report. I’ll discuss a bit my thoughts on this game and will post it in the story so you can listen right on the blog page.
-K.K.
January 2, 2009
Syracuse leads 35-19 here at the Sun Dome.
Here’s the audio halftime report:
January 2, 2009
A three-pointer by Dominique Jones has put a spark in a rather quiet Sun Dome crowd with less than eight minutes to play in the game. The three has cut the Syracuse lead to 50-43.
Jones, who has 12 points for USF, made just the third three on the night for the Bulls. USF is 3-for-18 against the Syracuse 2-3 zone, and the three-point shooting has clearly been the handicap tonight.
An interesting play just minutes ago. Junior Alex Rivas was called for his fourth foul of the night, but it was clearly on Eladio Espinosa, rather Rivas. The officials stood by their decision despite claims by the USF coaching staff.
You just think: if USF could make even two or three more three-pointers in this game, it would be a totally different story.
Rivas is sitting on the bench now, which will hinder USF’s chances of stopping 275 lb. forward Arinze Onauku, who has a double-double already, as he has 13 points and ten rebounds.
January 2, 2009
After trailing by 11 points at the 10:25 mark of the second half, USF has clawed its way back to make things a bit more interesting, trailing only now by five with 3:51 remaining in the game.
A 9-3 run stretching five minutes, highlighted by two three-pointers by Dominique Jones, has helped the Bulls back into this game.
Jones and Mobolaji Ajayi lead the team in scoring with 15 points apiece. Ajayi has a career high in front of a crowd of 8,350 at the Sun Dome. To be honest, approximately half of those may be Syracuse fans, who are making a bit of noise in the upper portion of the dome.
We’ll be back after the game with a report to see if USF can pull off the upset of the No. 13 ranked Orange.
-K.K.
January 2, 2009
Jesus Verdejo missed a three-pointer from the sideline with ten seconds left in the game, and the Syracuse Orange held off the South Florida upset effort at the Sun Dome tonight.
Eric Devendorf, who had eight points in the game, iced the win with two clutch free-throws at the 19 second mark. All of this coming after South Florida cut the lead to three with under a minute to play, the smallest deficit since the 11 minute mark in the first half.
With the win Syracuse moves to (14-1, 2-0) in the Big East, and USF (5-8, 0-1) drops its Big East opener.
Full game story will be in Monday’s back to school edition.
Until then, goodnight.
-K.K.
January 6, 2009
Greetings folks …
It’s one of the most anticipated women’s basketball games … well, maybe ever.
Tonight South Florida will host No. 1 Connecticut at the USF Sun Dome. Tip-0ff is set for 7:00 p.m.
I’ll be court side keeping you updated on what’s going on, and of course, I’ll have my ‘audio halftime report’ for you guys to listen to. That way we can keep things interactive!
Here is our story:
Also, a quick note that the university has announced that the ‘tentative’ date for the football spring game is March 18.
See you guys tonight.
-K.K.
January 6, 2009
The Louisville men’s basketball team, flying to Tampa, Fla. on a charter plane, had to return back to Louisville and make an emergency landing at 4:15 p.m. EST on Tuesday afternoon.
It was reported that there was a fire inside the engine of the plane.
Cardinals athletic director Kenny Klein said there were no injuries, and the 41 members of the team that were on the plane walked off unharmed.
Klein said the team expects to travel later tonight for the Wednesday game against South Florida.
January 6, 2009
It’s been all Maya Moore here in the first half.
The sophomore all-American has 15 points for the Huskies and Connecticut leads 21-12 at the Sun Dome with 11:25 remaining in the first half.
Stay tuned for our live ‘Audio Blog Report’ at halftime with my thoughts on tonight’s game.
I’ll post the link at halftime so you can take a listen!
-K.K.
January 6, 2009
January 10, 2009
Greetings folks …
As we prepare for a weekend of tennis and basketball (men’s and women’s), I wanted to let you guys know what the status is on our podcast.
I’ve gotten a couple emails, and I can gladly update that the podcast will be back on Jan. 22 (next Thursday).
We’ll dive into our first basketball focused podcast and see if we can get some stuff from Coach Stan Heath and players.
I’m also in the process of trying to line up an interview with Mallori Lofton-Malachi, USF women’s soccer keeper, who just spent a week in California training with the U.S. U-23 Women’s National Team.
Stay tuned for all that and enjoy the action today.
-K.K.
January 10, 2009
The University of South Florida announced today that the tentative date for the football team’s spring game has been set for April 11.
The game was orginally scheduled for April 18.
USF’s pro day is still set for March 13.
-K.K.
January 15, 2009
Greetings folks …
It’s been a busy week of new commitments and basketball. I’m still working on compiling a podcast sometime next week. We’ve had trouble in lining up some interviews.
As for this blog, I’m not sure how much we’ll be using it during the week, however, this will be your Oracle Sports home on the weekends.
Five new recruits pledged their service to coach Jim Leavitt and USF this week.
It was a big night in basketball as both men’s and women’s basketball faced and fell to top competition.
The men lost 75-62 to No. 1 Pitt. The women lost 76-60 to Louisville.
I’m sure I’ll scurry on here for something tomorrow.
-K.K.
January 15, 2009
ESPN analyst Mark Schlabach went through his winners/losers after today’s NFL Draft deadline, and he mentioned USF as a winner.
Schlabach writes …
“The Bulls kept their most visible player, junior defensive end George Selvie, who overcame an ankle injury and constant double-teams to record 5½ sacks in 2008.
The only repeat All-American in South Florida history, Selvie had 25½ sacks the past three seasons. Even after his injury-plagued junior campaign, Selvie was projected as a potential first-round pick.”
Just thought that was kind of interesting to pass along.
Anyways, have a good weekend.
-K.K.
January 17, 2009
January 17, 2009
A relatively busy day in USF athletics begins with men’s and women’s basketball losses.
Despite Dominique Jones’ 35 points, the South Florida men lost 62-59 on the road at West Virginia.
Jones had a three point shot with 8 seconds left to tie the game, but it clanked off the front of the rim. He scored over half of USF’s points and got no help from his teammates.
The women also lost, but this wasn’t nearly as close as they fell 79-47 at Pittsburgh. The women fall to 14-5 and 1-4 in the Big East, while the men sit at 6-11 and 1-4.
Enjoy your Saturday and be safe tonight.
-K.K.
January 19, 2009
Compliments of correspondent Joel Leventhal
The South Florida women’s tennis team opened its spring season Friday at the FGCU Invitational in Naples.
In singles play, No. 43 ranked USF was matched against No. 37 Illinois (according to the ITA rankings.)The Illini lived up to its ranking, taking out the Bulls 5-1.
The lone victory for the Bulls, in singles play, came from senior Iciri Rai who defeated No. 12 Chelcie Abajian in straight sets 7-6, (7-5) and 6-4.
Illinois sophomore Leigh Finnegan defeated the Bulls’ Jessica Zok, 6-2 and 6-3. No. 22 Megan Fudge, who was all-Big Ten, last year, took care of sophomore Jessica Sweeting in straight sets.
South Florida took care of the host team, though.
USF defeated FGCU in three matches.
Zok and Rai beat Florida Gulf Coast juniors Eva Sambrano and Maggie Caulk 9-8 (3).
In the second match, Allyn Mueller teamed up with Lauren Shumate to defeat Eagles duo, Pricillia Villemond and Marissa Grammar 8-3. In the final match of the day, Guevara and Sweeting completed the three match sweep against FGCU with an easy 8-1 victory against Leah Johnson and Joanne Power.
-J.L.
January 20, 2009
Greetings folks …
Hope your all prepared for the live blog tonight from the Sun Dome where USF and DePaul will tip-off at 9 p.m.
Also, stay tuned for our exclusive “Audio Halftime Update.” I’ll share all my thoughts on the game at halftime and post the mp3 into my blog for you all to listen.
Don’t forget to refresh the page, obviously. Post your comments as always.
See you in a couple hours.
-K.K.
January 20, 2009
Senior guard Jesus Verdejo, USF’s second leading scorer, is sitting out of pre-game warmups right now, so obviously, the assumption is that he will not play in tonight’s game.
Verdejo suffered a head-to-head collision with a West Virginia player in the Bulls’ 62-59 loss on Saturday.
Heath said on Monday that Verdejo would be a gametime decision.
Apparently, the decision has been made.
I’m going to go take down some taco’s now before tipoff.
-K.K.
January 20, 2009
The USF student section is celebrating tonight’s “Pajama Party” theme at the Sun Dome, but sophomore guard Dominique Jones didn’t show up for a slumber.
Jones has the first seven points for South Florida and the Bulls lead DePaul 7-4 at the 15:37 mark.
Jones is 3-for-3 from the field and 1-for-1 from outside. The rest of the team has missed their first four shots.
-K.K.
January 20, 2009
It’s been back and forth in the beginning of this ball game, but USF has withstood DePaul and still leads 15-11 with 11:34 left in the first half.
Again, like usual, Dominique Jones is off to a fast start in a game that’s has five lead changes already.
Jones hit his first five shots and leads all scoring with 10 points.
Senior guard Jesus Verdejo, who is out with a concussion, has been replaced by a trio of guards that are rotating.
Freshmen Gaby Belardo, B.J. Daniels and Justin Leemow have stepped in for the senior.
January 20, 2009
It certainly isn’t looking like the game these two teams played less than two weeks ago.
The Bulls defeated DePaul 80-58 back on Jan. 10, however, this one is a close 25-22 with less than four minutes remaining in the first half.
Dominique Jones leads USF with 12 points.
Stay tuned for our exclusive “Audio Halftime Report” coming shortly. I’ll share my thoughts on this game and post it for you guys to click and listen too.
-K.K.
January 20, 2009
Here is your usf-depaul-halftime-report
-K.K.
January 20, 2009
This thing sure is getting interesting …
After USF jumped out to a 35-28 halftime lead, it seemed as if USF went into a slumber at the break. The Blue Demons have led as much as five points in the second half, but trail 48-47 with 10:47 remaining in the game.
Jones has 20 points and is four assists and two rebounds away from a triple-double.
-K.K.
January 21, 2009
Greetings folks ….
Both the men’s and women’s teams took a double last night from Big East conference with the men defeating DePaul and the women taking care of Providence with ease.
Interesting interview with USF baseball coach Lelo Prado here courtesy of The College Baseball Blog
January 21, 2009
There’s only one thing that’s certain right now with “former” offensive coordinator Greg Gregory’s situation: nothing is certain at South Florida.
On Saturday night, local media received a press release that said Gregory had been “released from his duties as offensive coordinator.”
The release continued …
“”Greg is an outstanding coach and I appreciate everything he has done for us. It is time for our program to move in another direction,” USF coach Jim Leavitt said.
The same was confirmed through the department on Monday that Gregory was not on USF’s staff.
Now, we are getting a different story.
South Florida assistant athletic director Chris Freet confirmed Wednesday that Gregory is still on staff.
“(Gregory) is still an assistant coach but was removed as offensive coordinator,” Freet said.
The St. Petersburgh Times reported Tuesday night that Leavitt immediately released Gregory after he showed interest in the tight ends position at Florida.
“Greg visited with me about the possibility of coaching at another school, and I felt like I had to make a move,” Leavitt told The Times. “I’m not going to have my offensive coordinator out visiting with other schools. If a position coach wants to do that, I don’t have as much a problem.”
The Gators filled that position with former University of Washington assistant Brian White on Wednesday.
Freet said Gregory’s new position has not been decided.
Leavitt still has not been available for comment to The Oracle.
-K.K.
January 21, 2009
Class is finally in session for all of the schools across the Big East, and to celebrate, we’re launching a new feature. With so much attention on the Big East as perhaps the best conference in the nation, we decided to turn to the students who cover the league for some weekly opinions. Thus, the Big East Student Writers Poll was born.
We’ll do it weekly, every Wednesday. This week’s first poll features votes from 12 student writers from all over the conference. Each school has one ballot per week.
Teams are ranked on a points system. So every first-place vote is worth 16 points, every second-place vote worth 15, so on and so forth. All votes include action through Monday’s games.
So, without further ado, the results:
1. Pittsburgh (17-1, 5-1), 189 points
Why doesn’t Jamie Dixon get the recognition he deserves? — David Cassilo, The Villanovan
2. Marquette (16-2, 5-0), 180 points
This is the best thing going on in Wisconsin right now. — Giuseppe Barone, The Setonian
3. Louisville (13-3, 4-0), 178 points
Three consecutive wins over ranked opponents means Louisville is adding to good week for teams named after Cardinals. — John Borneman, The Marquette Tribune
4. Connecticut (16-1, 5-1), 166 points
Even though they’re 16-1, still a mystery. — Kerry Klecic, The Oracle
5. Syracuse (17-3, 5-2), 148 points
I don’t know who I would fear more in a fight. Harris, Onuaku, or Flynn. — Matthew Stein, The Daily Targum
6. Georgetown (12-4, 3-2), 127 points
7. Villanova (14-3, 2-2), 106 points
If they could only make a layup… — Chris Hine, The Observer
8. Notre Dame (12-5, 3-3), 99 points
Irish are finding out that road rims aren’t as kind to 3-point attacks as the ones at the Joyce Center. — Borneman
9. West Virginia (13-4, 2-2), 98 points
10. Providence (12-6, 4-2), 79 points
One of the most confusing teams in the country, but definitely has a chance to win some big games. — Mike Gladysz, The Pitt News
11. Cincinnati (12-7, 2-4), 72 points
12. St. John’s (10-7, 1-4), 54 points
That was an impressive win over Notre Dame, but they’ve lost their other four league games by an average of 18 points per game. Ouch. — Hine
13. Seton Hall (9-8, 0-5), 40 points
The writing is on the wall for Bobby Gonzalez after what looks to be another disappointing season. — Cassilo
14. South Florida (7-11, 2-4), 35 points
It’s an improvement from being last, but this team is still atrocious. — Barone
15. Rutgers (9-9, 0-5), 34 points
16. DePaul (8-11, 0-6), 27 points
No crowd, no fans, no wins. — Gladysz
January 21, 2009
Tough break for USF softball as 2008 Big East freshman of the year, Capri Catalano, will be out for the 2009 season because of a shoulder injury.
“We are fortunate enough to diagnose a minor situation that our medical staff is on top of and ready to take care of,” said USF head coach Ken Eriksen said. “We will continue with physical therapy for the rest of the spring. We look forward to getting a completely healthy Catalano back for the 2009-10 year.”
January 22, 2009
Apparently Dominique Jones has never heard of Villanova guard Scottie Reynolds — a 2007-2008 second team All-Big East selection.
In preperation for USF’s game against Villanova on Saturday at noon over at the Sun Dome, I casually asked Jones in a conversation what he thought of Reynolds.
“Who?” Jones replied. “Who? I don’t know. I know we play Villanova, but I don’t know who Scottie is.”
I asked again, “Never heard of him?”
“Nope, nuh uh,” as Jones smiled.
I guess when you’re averaging 18.8 ppg like Jones is you can say whatever you want. Jones, a sophomore, is playing in perhaps his best stretch of basketball at USF.
Jones had 26 points, 10 rebounds and was four assists shy of a triple-double in Tuesday night’s 70-61 win over DePaul.
Reynolds is averaging 15.2 ppg that includes a 40 point effort in an overtime win over Seton Hall on Jan. 1.
Welp, one thing is for certain, Jones will meet Reynolds at noon on Saturday.
-K.K.
January 22, 2009
Just two weeks from National Signing Day and USF just picked up another verbal, this one from Miami Pace wide-out Derrick Hopkins www.USFBullsEYE.com reported Wednesday.
A 5-foot-10, 160 pound 2A State Champ in the 200 meters, Hopkins should bring plenty of speed to the receiving core.
Hopkins, a two star recruit, chose USF after considering offers from Kansas State, Auburn, Iowa State, Central Michigan and Florida International.
Also on USFBullsEYE.com, the Bulls picked up a verbal committment from JUCO linebacker Jacquain Williams. Williams, out of Fort Scott C.C., is listed as running a 4.5, 40-meter dash.
January 23, 2009
Greetings folks … Tough news for the USF basketball team.
Forward Mobolaji Ajayi partially tore his right Anterior Cruciate Ligament and will miss the remainder of the season.
Ajayi, who had appeared in all 18 games for USF, landed awkwardly on his right leg after a layup on Thursday.
“We are extremely disappointed for Moboloaji,” USF coach Stan Heath said in a statement. “Our coaching staff and team will support him during his rehabilitation and continue to push him academically while he’s regaining his health. He has been playing well recently and his size and presence will be missed.”
Ajayi’s career at USF is over. He is a senior.
January 23, 2009
Just a reminder for all the students that I will be blogging live court side at tomorrow’s game between USF and No. 20 Villanova.
And, of course, I’ll have your “Audio Halftime Report” at the intermission that you guys can click and listen to. I’ll share all my thoughts, feelings and concerns as the game evolves.
I’m sure as you’ve read below USF has lost its second key player to an ACL injury. First, transfer Mike Mercer and now B.J. Ajayi. Also, senior Jesus Verdejo is still struggling with a concussion.
Tune in tomorrow at noon to see if the banged up Bulls can pull off the upset.
Have a safe night.
-K.K.
January 24, 2009
Just a day after USF coach Stan Heath lost senior B.J. Ajayi for the season due to an ACL tear, he received more bad news.
Junior Mike Mercer and Ohio State transfer Anthony Crater were arrested and charged with misdemeanor count of possession of marijuana, the Times and Tribune both reported.
Heath made a statement in a release early this morning.
“This kind of behavior is unacceptable within our program,” Heath said. “We are reviewing the situation and once we have more information and all the facts, we’ll have further comment.”
Mercer was already ruled out for the remainder of the season with an ACL injury.
Crater, who won’t be available to play until next season due to NCAA transfer policy, had been at USF since the beginning of this semester.
Just about to tip here at the Sun Dome. I’ll be back with an update.
-K.K.
January 24, 2009
Augustus Gilchrist’s dunk just moments ago ignited a spark in this Sun Dome crowd, but USF still trails 15-14 with 11:46 remaining in the first half.
Chris Howard leads USF with 6 points.
Dante Cunningham has given Nova 8 points.
There have been six lead changes in the first ten minutes.
January 24, 2009
Just under the four minute mark, and seven lead changes later, USF leads 28-25 No. 20 Villanova at the Sun Dome.
All the stuff happening off the court — with Mike Mercer and Anthony Crater’s suspension — it seems the Bulls have taken it into their account to handle things ON the court.
Nova led 25-21 at the 6:30 mark, but Augustus Gilchrist’s layup and 3-pointer on straight possessions have fueled the USF comeback.
South Florida is 10-for-19 from the field.
Villanova is 10-for-23.
-K.K.
January 24, 2009
Alright, I will be the first to admit when I’ve been defeated.
It seems my recorder is going through some technical difficulties. Therefore, today’s “Audio Halftime Report” won’t be able to be posted.
Sometimes that stuff can just be a hassle, eh. I can just sense all of you guys sighing in dismay as I write.
It’s all knotted up here at 32-32 between USF and No. 20 Villanova.
Chris Howard and Augustus Gilchrist lead the Bulls with 10 points.
Dante Cunningham is 4-for-7 from the field and has eight points to lead the Wildcats. And Cunningham just scored the opening basket of the second half just a moment ago.
-K.K.
January 24, 2009
Former South Florida goalkeeper Troy Perkins is far from sunny Tampa. That’s for sure.
A great story on him that I found from a link on the New York Times.
It’s a pretty good read, you can find it here.
January 24, 2009
After taking its first lead of the second half just moments ago, USF let Villanova on a 5-0 run with less than eight minutes remaining in the game, and the Wildcats lead 52-51 here at the Sun Dome.
USF is having perhaps its most balanced scoring effort this season with four guys in double figures.
Chris Howard leads everyone with 15 points, and Augustus Gilchrist has 13.
Nova jumped out to a 39-32 lead on a 7-0 run to begin the second half.
Be back shortly
-K.K.
January 24, 2009
USF is trying to pull off the upset on No. 20 Villanova, but they’re having to do it with a flat tire of sorts.
Leading scorer Dominique Jones fouled out with less than six minutes to go, and the Wildcats lead 60-55 with 3:40 t0 g0 in this game.
If you’re a USF fan, it will be encouraging to know that others have carried the offensive load today.
Augustus Gilchrist has 17 points — including an electrifying dunk minutes ago — and Chris Howard has 15.
I’ll be on after the game for a brief update. With the announcement of two suspensions and Ajayi’s ACL injury, this win would certainly be big for USF coach Stan Heath.
January 24, 2009
Just over a minute left to play, and USF is down 62-58 with Villanova’s Dwayne Anderson at the line to complete a three-point play. Anderson drove to the lane and made an acrobatic layup to give the Wildcats the lift.
Augustus Gilchrist, who has 18 points and six rebounds, went 1-for-4 from the free-throw line on two straight ocassions just minutes ago.
That certainly would have given USF a better chance…
-K.K.
January 24, 2009
We’re still in action here, but it’s safe to say this one is iced.
Scottie Reynolds just made four free throws and Villanova leads 67-58 with the clock dwindling …
USF had its chances to be in this game, but Dominique Jones fouled out, and Augustus Gilchrist couldn’t finish at the line.
The Bulls will move to 7-12, 2-5.
Thanks for joining us today.
-K.K.
January 24, 2009
I’ve seen a lot of different sides from USF coach Stan Heath in my time covering South Florida athletics.
I’ve seen a stern coach in practice who is teaching his players how to play the game. I’ve seen a coach who smiles when one of his players achieve something great. I’ve seen someone who truly and genuinely cares for his players.
On Saturday, I saw a man that was very disappointed in two of those players.
Heath was able to shed some light on the situation surrounding last night’s arrest of Mike Mercer and Anthony Crater for possession of marijuana after USF’s 70-61 loss to No. 20 Villanova today.
When someone asked Heath what Mercer’s status was with the program he said “in jeopardy.” This is his second incident while at USF.
“This is just not something that I will accept in our program and at the same time this happened so fast that I need to find out all the facts and make a decision from there,” Heath said.
Heath said he will meet with athletic director Doug Woolard and most likely make a decision on Monday.
Heath said he hasn’t spoken to either player yet.
January 25, 2009
Compliments of correspondent Joel Leventhal …
The South Florida women’s tennis team ended up on the wrong end of a 4-3 match result against No. 49 ranked New Mexico on Saturday.
In doubles play, USF juniors Lauren Shumate and Allyn Muller defeated the Lobos’ Anya Villanueva-Forte and Ashley Bonner 8-4.
That would be the Bulls’ only doubles victory all day. Jessica Sweeting and Natalia Guevara lost a close match while Jessica Zok and Iciri Rai fell 9-8 to Maria Sotirchos and Ola Abou-Zekry.
In singles play, Rai and Muller each lost close matches to Emma Hayman and Maria Sotirchos respectively. Natalia Guevara avenged her defeat in doubles earlier by defeating Manumea Durie in straight sets, 6-4 and 6-4. Lauren Shumate continued her stellar play by coming out victorious 6-1 and 6-1 against Ashley Bonner.
As this is USF’s first official match, the Bulls are 0-1 on the year.
USF will travel to Gainesville to take on the University of Florida on Feb. 4 before returning home to play the opener against Furman on Feb. 13.
January 27, 2009
Greetings folks …
Just wanted to leave my apologies about not posting on here in the last couple days extensively. I’ve been doing some coverage for the Super Bowl.
I spent most of today lost in the frenzy that is Super Bowl media day. How it is very fun and rewarding, it is also tiring.
I did a story in yesterday’s paper about the impact of having the AFC Champions here on campus for practice this week. Check it out here.
Stay tuned for my commentary in tomorrow’s issue about my experience at media day!
-K.K.
January 26, 2009
We’ll have plenty more on this story in tomorrow’s paper…
Junior guard Mike Mercer has been dismissed from the program, men’s basketball coach Stan Heath announced Monday.
Mercer and teammate Anthony Crater were arrested late Friday night on charges of misdemeanor possession of marijuana.
Mercer was arrested in Septemeber for public consumption of alcohol. This is Crater’s first offense, and he has been placed on “probationary status.”
-K.K.
January 28, 2009
1. Louisville (15-3, 6-0), 182 points (5 first-place votes)
The anti-Georgetown: A team which people thought may have chemistry issues has put aside early season struggles and really come together. — Bailey Heaps, The Hoya
2. Pittsburgh (18-1, 6-1), 173 points (3)
If Levance Fields took a tumble on the court, would he roll like a bowling ball and knock over everyone in his path? — Matthew Stein, The Daily Targum
3. Marquette (18-2, 7-0), 171 points (2)
Buzz Williams for national coach of the year? — Kyle Austin, The Daily Orange
4. Connecticut (18-1, 7-1), 170 points (2)
This team will be the new national No. 1 next week after Duke loses to Wake Forest. — Giuseppe Barone, The Setonian
5. Syracuse (17-4, 5-3), 141 points
1-3 over the last four doesn’t usually mean you’re a top 25 team, but in the Big East, rules don’t apply. — Tony Dobies, The Daily Athenaeum
6. Villanova (15-4, 3-3), 119 points
Still doing well despite Scottie Reynold’s nowhere-to-be-found play. — Kerry Klecic, The Oracle
7. West Virginia (14-5, 3-3), 111 points
8. Providence (13-6, 5-2), 108 points
With Syracuse and UConn up next, we will finally find out if the Friars are any good.
— David Cassilo, The Villanovan
9. Georgetown (12-6, 3-4), 107 points
Two words: Seton Hall. Really? — Catherine LaRoche, The Louisville Cardinal
10. Notre Dame (12-7, 3-5), 93 points
In big trouble. — Mike Gladysz, The Pitt News
11. Cincinnati (13-7, 3-4), 76 points
Mike Williams is beginning to emerge as a second option behind Deonta Vaughn after averaging 17.6 points in his last five games. — Bo Jessee/Pete Marx, The News Record
12. St. John’s (11-8, 2-5), 53 points
13. Seton Hall (10-9, 1-6), 51 points
Bobby Gonzalez is a great coach, now if only he could recruit… — Stein
14. South Florida (7-12, 2-5), 40 points
15. Rutgers (9-11, 0-7), 23 points
Fred Hill is a great recruiter, now if only he could coach… — Stein
16. DePaul (8-12, 0-7), 14 points
You know it’s bad when USF does the double on you. — Klecic
-K.K.
January 29, 2009
Signing day is almost upon us, and USF picked up another big time recruit.
USFBullsEYE.com reported Wednesday that JUCO defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul verbally committed.
Pierre-Paul, 6-foot-6 and 265 pounds, is a four-star caliber and picked USF over Arizona, Kansas State and Nebraska.
Tack him along with Armwood touted defensive end Ryne Giddins and George Selvie should have plenty of talented backup in the fall.
Als0, both the Times and Tribune reported that Grant Gregory, former offensive coordinator Greg Gregory’s son, will transfer from USF after receiving a sixth year of eligibility.
-K.K.
January 30, 2009
This photo was passed along to me …
I can’t quite make out who that is for the AFC Champion Pittsburgh Steelers, but it seems while they were on campus they were doing some extra reading.
They were reading the Oracle, of course. I wrote a commentary on Super Bowl media day that day’s paper (at least that’s what I think. It’s kind of blurry).
Now, what does this all mean? Well, it means I know who I’m picking to win Sunday’s big game…..
Have a safe weekend.
-K.K.
January 31, 2009
South Florida not only showed its will to survive a late comeback by Rutgers, but to also pull off the programs first win over the Scarlet Knights in a 59-56 upset victory on Saturday at the RAC.
“It was a big win for us,” USF coach Jose Fernandez said. “I was real happy with how our team played.”
Senior guard Shantia Grace’s layup with seven seconds left sealed the win and shocked the 3,821 in attendance.
The Bulls led by 19 with six minutes left in the game. However, a tough Rutgers defense allowed a 17-2 Scarlet Knights run to tie it at 56-56 with less than a minute to play.
“They pressured us real hard,” South Florida guard Janae Stokes said. “They just pressured us, and in those last 4 minutes we kind of panicked a little bit.”
Stokes showed little sign of panic — scoring 20 points and hitting six three-point shots. Stokes said that it was exciting to win against such a prestigious team.
“It’s a fantastic feeling,” she said. “It feels great to be able to come here and beat a top 25 quality team.”
USF (16-6, 3-5) turned the ball over 19 times and went to the free throw line 10 times. Fernandez said it was his own team that allowed the late comeback.
“We just didn’t take care of the ball, and we didn’t make free throws down the stretch,” he said.
The Bulls did, however, play good defense.
Rutgers (12-7, 4-4) were held to 32.8 shooting from the field and were outrebounded 35-28 by USF.
The Bulls played in the absence of freshman guard Jasmine Wynne, who suffered a twisted ankle against Georgetown. Fernandez said the team did a great job of filling in that loss.
“It gave the other kids a great chance to step up,” he said. “Folks like [Melissa] Dalembert and [Allyson] Speed all contributed.”
-Alex Cobb, Correspondent
February 1, 2009
Both area newspapers have reported news out of Miami that Florida International is backing out of its series with USF and will not play the Bulls in the 2009 football season.
Obviously, this leaves a gap in USF’s schedule, and with the Bulls already playing big in-state games against Miami and FSU, you would think a “lower profile” school may be in line to replace them. Also, most teams already have scheduling already situated.
In that case, a I-AA opponent might be the safer route. Hey, how about playing Wofford twice!
-K.K.
February 3, 2009
At 4 p.m. tomorrow, USF coach Jim Leavitt will step up to the podium at the athletics facility and comment on what could be the highest ranked football recruiting class in school history.
As many as 25+ recruits are expected to sign on the dotted line tomorrow.
www.gousfbulls.com, USF’s athletics page, will have full coverage throughout the day on “Bulls Vision.”
I’m sure I’ll be busy busy busy trekking around town to different signing days. I’ll try and post sometime before 4, when Leavitt goes on the podium.
Following the press conference, USF will host a signing day party at Splitsville in Channelside from 5:30-7 p.m.
Huge day for USF football. See you guys tomorrow and we’ll have full wall-to-wall coverage from around the area in Thursday’s paper.
-K.K.
February 3, 2009
At halftime of Friday’s game between USF and Marquette, fromer athletics director Richard T “Dick” Bowers will be honored.
Bowers, who died on Nov. 29 2007, will become the only non-player to have a banner on the Sun Dome. He served 16 years as AD at USF.
-K.K.
February 5, 2009
Greetings folks …
A reminder to you all that I will be live blogging from Friday night’s USF-Marquette men’s basketball game at the Sun Dome at 7 p.m. I hope you all join me for my “audio halftime report,” as well.
There’s plenty of action coming up this weekend. Softball begins tomorrow and a preview of that is in today’s paper. Here are some more from correspondent Alex Cobb and staff writer Kelli Polson.
Women’s Basketball
South Florida heads north this weekend to take on Syracuse at the Carrier Dome Sunday.
The Bulls, coming off a momentous loss against Marquette Tuesday night, have ground to gain if they want to make the NCAA Tournament.
Guards Shantia Grace and Janae Stokes, who have combined for 51 points in their last two outings, will try to increase USF’s offensive production. The Bulls were held to 51 points against the Golden Eagles.
The Bulls were 18-for-34 from the free throw line against Marquette. Coach Jose Fernandez said the team to make free throws down the stretch to be competitive.
Grace said she wasn’t 100 percent before the Marquette game because of an injury to her foot. The source of the pain was unknown, but said that it “started some time after the Rutgers game.”
Grace is still expected to play against the Orange.
Freshman Jasmine Wynne also continues to struggle with a foot injury. She saw limited playing time against Marquette, and missed the upset victory over the Scarlet Knights.
Wynne played 17 minutes Tuesday and is expected to play Sunday.
The Bulls have yet to manage two straight victories since entering Big East league play. They have lost two straight on two separate occasions.
– Alex Cobb
Men’s Tennis
South Florida goes on the road for another dual match this weekend.
The No. 34 Bulls face No. 45 Arizona and No. 55 St. Mary’s in Arizona.
Last weekend, the Bulls missed a chance to advance to the Indoor National Championships after a 1-1 record. The team had to win both matches against No. 35 Texas Christian University, their only season loss so far, and No. 60 UC-Santa Barbara.
The Bulls dropped from No. 28 to No. 34 after the tournament.
Freshman Romain Deridder was sick and unable to play in his last match against Santa Barbara. Coach Don Barr said three players are fighting the flu.
Lucas Jovita, who is No. 27 in the country in singles, will look to carry the team while they miss action.
Sophomore Jay Goldman, who is No. 88 in singles, leads Arizona.
Both Arizona and USF have strong doubles pairings.
The Bulls have No. 15 Jovita and Thomas Estrada while the Wildcats will match up with No. 18 Francois VanderMerwe and Pat Metham.
The Wildcats have a season record of 4-1; their only loss was to No. 7 Florida at the National Spring Kick Off in Gainesville.
Achim Christner leads St. Mary’s, who dropped from No. 48 to No. 55 after two straight losses. They fell to Mississippi State last weekend. The Gaels have a season record of 1-4.
The Bulls are 2-1 on the year.
– Kelli Polson
February 6, 2009
USF men’s soccer forward Zak Boggs was named 2008-2009 Male Scholar-Athlete of the Year, becoming the first South Florida athlete to win the award.
The junior will receive $4,000 towards postgraduate or professional studies because of his academic and on-field performances.
Boggs was the second leading scorer this season (5) and helped lead the Bulls to their first Big East Championship in soccer.
If you remember, we did a podcast interview with Boggs during the season, and I’m sure you guys would be interested in hearing it. Here it is!
USF also had eight football players named to the Big East All-Academic team today. Wide receiver Marcus Edwards frontlined the names, becoming the first player in school history to achieve the mark four years in a row.
Safety Nate Allen and punter Delbert Alvarado were among some of the names, as well.
A reminder, I’ll be courtside at the Sun Dome tonight live blogging my life away! See you then!
-K.K.
February 6, 2009
Okay, so maybe I need to get a life, but I thought this is pretty funny …
I’m not sure if you guys can make out the score right there, but I snapped this on my phone about 10 minutes ago.
Apparently even the USF stats people have a lot of confidence about tonight’s outcome. The scoreboard reads “MU: 33, USF: 26 with 55 seconds left.
Perhaps I just looked into the future a bit … or perhaps I need to get back to work or something.
Be back on once the game gets going.
-K.K.
February 6, 2009
Dominique Jones just battled near the boards and putback an errant shot into the net, and USF leads Marquette 15-13 at the Sun Dome with 11:42 remaining in the first half.
It’s been Chris Howard, however, for the Bulls who has shined early.
Howard is 2-for-4 and completed the front end of a set of free-throws to give him five points.
Powered by Dominic James’ five points, the Golden Eagles led 11-5 early on, but a 10-0 USF run has swung things around.
-K.K.
February 6, 2009
I smell an upset …
A long ways to go here at the Sun Dome, and I should be careful in claiming things like “upsets” so early with the way USF has not been able to put away games, but nevertheless USF leads No. 8 Marquette 26-22 with 6:21 left in the first half.
A 21-3 run midway through the half has put the Bulls in position to pull off the upset.
Freshman Just Leemow has provided some extra minutes to a depleted USF squad. Leemow only has one point, but has contributed on defense well.
Chris Howard has eight points and Dominique Jones has seven.
Stay tuned for my Podcast at Halftime to break down this game. I’ll post it on here.
-K.K.
February 6, 2009
February 6, 2009
We have a great game brewing on our hands here at the Sun Dome.
It’s all knotted at 40-40 with 11:31 remaining in the game as Marquette has erased a four-point halftime deficit.
It seems that all the plays that usually DON’T happen for the Bulls are happening tonight.USF has fought hard with teams like Pittsburgh and Louisville, but allowed second half collapses to haunt them. However, for instance, it’s been different. Just moments ago, when it looked as if USF would let another posession go out with the shot clock, Dominique Jones rebounded the ball and put it in to give them a three-point lead.
It smells like an upset here at the Sun Dome.
-K.K.
February 6, 2009
USF has been in control of almost the entirity of this game, however, it seems as if Marquette is ready to take that control away.
Jerel McNeal has 21 points and the Golden Eagles lead 55-53 with 3:38 remaining in the game at the Sun Dome.
McNeal is 7-for-15 from the floor.
USF senior Jesus Verdejo has awakened from a shooting slump, and has sparked the Bulls in the second half. He has 21 points, as well.
We’ll know shortly if USF can pull off a huge upset. Stay tuned….
February 6, 2009
Marquette holds a slim 56-55 lead, and USF has the ball with just over a minute remaining in the game.
The Bulls, trying to pull off a massive upset over No. 8 Marquette, are starting at their best opportunity to make a 7-14 record look oh-so much sweeter.
We’ll find out if they can pull it off in less than a minute….
-K.K.
February 6, 2009
After a missed Marquette three point shot, Dominique Jones flew down the court and made an acrobatic layup, while being fouled, to nearly put the Sun Dome crowd out of its socks.
Jones missed the free-throw, but USF leads 57-56 with 10 seconds left. The Golden Eagles have the ball, and a chance to win or tie this thing.
Can USF pull off a monster upset of the N0. 8 team in the country?
-K.K.
February 6, 2009
So it happened.
Marquette’s jumper clanged off the rim, Stan Heath gave one big fist pump and the players threw a party at half court.
USF pulled off an unlikely upset of No. 8 Marquette with a 57-56 victory tonight at the Sun Dome.
The hero? Had to be Jesus Verdejo, who scored 21 points on 9-for-16 shooting.
Marquette, who was undefeated in the Big East coming into the game, falls to 20-4 on the season.
-K.K.
February 9, 2009
USF sophomore outfielder Ryan Lockwood has been named to Sporting News’ 2009 College All-America Team.
This just another honor as he’s been named to several preseason national teams and watchlists for awards.
Lockwood was the first freshman in Big East history to lead the conference in batting average during conference play (.454). He ended the season on a 30-game hitting streak, as well.
The Bulls hit the field on Feb. 20 for the Big East/Big Ten challenge.
-K.K.
February 9, 2009
Former USF standout cornerback Anthony Henry donated $100,000 towards the renovation of weight room and locker room facilities.
Henry worked with Lee Roy Selmon throughout the gifting process.
“Even though I am nine years removed from the program, I thought it was important to give back financially and show the current players how much USF means to me,” Henry said. “I will always support USF football in every way I can.”
Henry played at USF from 1997-2000 and currently plays with the Dallas Cowboys.
February 10, 2009
Greetings folks …
I’m going to be heading over to the Sun Dome in a couple hours and just wanted to brief you again on tonight’s live blog.
An interesting matchup tonight as USF will host Providence at 7 p.m.
With a win, USF will have two consecutive Big East victories for the first time since joining the conference in 2005 — which should be another telling point that coach Stan Heath is building something positive.
It also seems, however, that a loss would be a significant one, in terms of moral around campus and the program.
I don’t know, just my thoughts. If you’d like to share yours, feel free.
-K.K.
February 10, 2009
Greetings folks …
Live at the Sun Dome and just minutes until tip.
Stay tuned and I’ll be on here to update you by the first media timeout.
-K.K.
February 10, 2009
Not sure if it’s been more of bad transition defense or good transition offense, but both teams are using it to score.
After back-to-back transition baskets, USF leads Providence 9-7 at the 15:23 mark in the first half.
Eladio Espinosa had a beauty of a layup off a fast-break, and Dominique Jones has powered his way to five early points.
Stay tuned for our Halftime Podcast!
-K.K.
February 10, 2009
After a dunk and a layup, Providence has tied things up at the 11:56 mark, 13-13.
Marshon Brooks’ rim-rattling slam sparked a small Friars run to take a 13-9 lead. However, Jesus Verdejo and Dominique Jones teamed up and hit two jumpers.
A good start for Jones as he’s 3-of-4 from the field en route to seven points …
Cheers….
-K.K.
February 10, 2009
Stay tuned for my halftime podcast coming up next post at halftime.
Less than four minutes to play in the first half, and Providence leads 31-26 after an 8-0 run spanning the past four minutes.
Dominique Jones has been on a tear for USF, going 6-for-9 from the field and adding a free-throw to give him 15 points.
Marshon Brooks and Randall Hanke each have seven points to lead the Friars.
Be back with the p-cast.
-K.K.
February 10, 2009
It’s halftime here folks, and this is your update.
providence-usf-halftime-podcast
Second half will begin shortly
-K.K.
February 10, 2009
The Sun Dome crowd has spoken!
At a full time out taken by Povidence coach Keno Davis, a survey appeared asking who would win the Big East tournament this year.
The voting results?
USF = 68%
UConn = 26%
Marquette = 5%
Rash ……
-K.K.
February 10, 2009
History may have to wait a bit longer.
Providence has maintained a nine-point halftime lead and are ahead 46-37 at the Sun Dome over USF with 15:58 remaining in this game.
The Bulls, going for consecutive Big East wins after an upset of No. 8 Marquette, can’t seem to stop the Friar’s hot shooting.
Providence is 57 percent from the field and 55 percent from three-point range.
Sharaud Curry is beginning to heat up as he’s hit a couple baskets at the end of the 1st and beginning of the 2nd half.
That isn’t good news for South Florida.
-K.K.
February 10, 2009
USF is in the middle of a 6-0 run here at th Sun Dome, but the Friars still lead 58-49 over South Florida with 7:36 remaining
Aris Williams made two putbacks, and Dominique Jones had a nice mid-range jumper to cut a lead that was growing by the minute.
The Friars led by much as 13 with a little over five minutes prior.
Jones is still leading the way with 20 points and seven rebounds.
-K.K.
February 10, 2009
3:45 left in the game and Providence leads 65-57 after a huge three-point shot from Brian McKenize just moments ago.
Dominique Jones was on a 5-0 run by himself, and the USF crowd started chanting “U-S-F, U-S-F, U-S-F.”
But just as it seemed as if the Bulls could mount a swift comeback and make this thing a game, McKenzie’s three-pointer changed the complexion of this game.
The Friars have the ball, and it looks like the game too.
I’ll be on, of course, if anything changes. Otherwise, toodles.
-K.K.
February 11, 2009
The top student writers in the conference have spoken again, and here’s how it came out.
1. Connecticut (22-1, 10-1), 192 points (12 first-place votes)
A team that just knows how to win basketball games. — Kerry Klecic, The Oracle
2. Louisville (18-4, 9-1), 175 points
3. Pittsburgh (22-2, 9-2), 173 points
They may finally get past the Sweet 16 this year. — Giuseppe Barone, The Setonian
4. Marquette (20-3, 9-1), 151 points
Out of all the teams in the Big East, they lose to a South Florida team that’s 3-8 in the conference. — Catherine LaRoche, The Louisville Cardinal
5. Villanova (19-4, 7-3), 148 points
They have been absolutely shooting the lights out lately. — Matthew Stein, The Daily Targum
6. Syracuse (18-6, 6-5), 125 points
7. West Virginia (16-8, 5-6), 111 points
8. Cincinnati (16-8, 6-5), 109 points
Who knew they were capable of 90-plus points? Oh, wait, anybody is when they play Notre Dame. — Chris Hine, The Observer
9. Providence (14-9, 6-5), 108 points
10. Georgetown (13-9, 4-7), 85 points
11. Notre Dame (12-10, 3-7), 64 points
Not looking good right now in South Bend at all. — Klecic
12. Seton Hall (13-9, 4-6), 61 points
The Pirates officially have the upper hand in the tri-state area: the only positive to come out of this season. — Barone
13. St. John’s (12-11, 3-8), 54 points
14. South Florida (8-14, 3-7), 39 points
South Florida basketball is like Duke football. Even when they steal some wins, no one seems to care. — Stein
15. Rutgers (10-14, 1-10), 25 points
Words don’t describe the frustration level around the Rutgers campus. This team is terrible. — Stein
16. DePaul (8-16, 0-11), 12 points
Half the high school teams in Chicago can beat DePaul right now. — Barone
Voters: Bailey Heaps, The Hoya; Bo Jesse/Pete Marx, The News Record; Catherine LaRoche, The Louisville Cardinal; Chris Hine, The Observer; David Cassilo, The Villanovan; Giuseppe Barone, The Setonian; Kerry Klecic, The Oracle; Kyle Austin, The Daily Orange; Matthew Stein, The Daily Targum; Mike Gladysz, The Pitt News; Ryan Holt, The Cowl; Tony Dobies, The Daily Athenaeum
February 12, 2009
Less than a month after being “realeased from duties” as offensive coordinator at USF, Greg Gregory has accepted the offensive coordinator position at South Alabama, coach Jim Leavitt announced on Thursday morning.
After interviewing for the tight ends job at Florida, Leavitt demoted Gregory on Jan. 18. He remained on staff, but his role “hadn’t been determined.” He spent three years at USF after joining as tight ends coach in 2005.
“Coach Gregory is a tremendous coach, and he did a tremendous job with our offense,” Leavitt said in a statement. “That unit has been very successful under his leadership. South Alabama made a terrific hire, and I firmly believe he will do a great job.”
The offensive coordinator position at USF has not been filled.
-K.K.
February 13, 2009
Baseball season is almost here, and I trekked over to USF practice to talk to coach Lelo Prado about the upcoming season. The Bulls, who were picked second behind Louisville in the Big East, begin next weekend in the Big Ten/Big East challenge over in Clearwater. After losing some power from last year’s squad Prado said pitching will be a big part of the season. Here is the rest of what he said:
Klecic: How excited are you to get things going?
Prad0: “We’re getting tired of playing against each other. I think the team is ready, but they’re the ones that have to step on the field and produce. I tell you what — I wish I was playing. They just have to focus on going out there and play as a team, though. I think they’re ready to go.”
K: Ryan Lockwood (sophomore) has a lot of expectations put on him. How do you think he’ll handle that?
P: “He’s a pretty easy-going guy. And he doesn’t talk about it much. He’s always working his butt off, and if he doesn’t hit .400, or whatever, it’s not going to be because he didn’t put the work in. He puts a lot of effort into it. If there’s one person on the team to handle it — it’s him.
K: How long will his hitting streak last (currently at 30 straight games)?
P: “I hope it lasts all season. He really doesn’t talk about it at all. If we’re winning, I think the streak continues because he’s a key part of our offense. He’s earned it.”
K: How big will pitching be for you guys?
P: “It has to be there. It has to be the key. It has to be a situation where they carry us. We’re not going to be a team that hits a lot of home runs. This year, we have to be able to pitch and play defense. And if we do that — we’ll be successful.”
K: Are you set in the BULL-pen (I had to do that. Okay, I’ll stop.)
P: “I wouldn’t say we’re necessarily set, but a lot of things will be about this weekend. It’s going to be kind of open and see where we can fit guys in. The good thing is that we’ve got about 14 arms to use.”
K: Being that you used to coach at Louisville, is that on your mind at all?
P: “Well, when we left there, we knew we were leaving a good team. We recruited a lot of the players they have. They’re a really strong bunch. They have a good team, and they went to the World Series. We have to get the attitude here that we are a top 20 team every season and to have national championship on our minds like they do.”
K: Is Omaha a goal for you this year?
P: “That’s our goal every year. The Big East is something that is won along the way, but the goal is to get to Omaha and win a national championship — but you have to take care of step one before you can get to step two. We feel we should be a regional team, and we feel we can make a run at things.”
The Bulls will host media day and an open scrimmage on Tuesday, and then it’s off to Clearwater where they’ll face Michigan, Purdue and Indiana next weekend.
February 17, 2009
College Baseball Insider selected USF sophomore outfielder Ryan Lockwood to the honorable mention All-American team — his fifth in the preseason award.
Lockwood, one of 95 players named to CBI’s list, has already tallied honors from Sporting News and Louisville Slugger, as well as being named preseason All-Big East.
Today is media day over at Red McEwen field, and I’ll be there with our correspondent Phil Neary for coverage. I’m sure we’ll have an opportunity to talk to Lockwood, and I’ll post some comments from him on here later.
The Bulls begin the season this weekend, starting with the Big East/Big Ten challenge in Clearwater.
-K.K.
February 17, 2009
Influential defensive coordinator Wally Burnham has left South Florida to take the D-coordinator job at Iowa State, a statement said on Tuesday.
Burnham, who spend nine years at USF, is the second coordinator lost this year, as offensive coordinator Greg Gregory left to take a position at South Alabama last Thursday.
“Wally did a great job for us, we will sorely miss him and his wife Barbara,” said USF coach Jim Leavitt, in a statement. “I am absolutely proud of everything he has done here and the success he has brought to USF. We wish him luck at Iowa State and I know that he will always be successful because of his tremendous character.”
Under Burnham, the Bulls have been ranked in the top-30 for defense in six of the last seven seasons.
No word on a replacement.
-K.K.
February 17, 2009
More news out of footbal, although this one is less suprising.
South Florida announced Tuesday a one-game agreement to play Charleston Southern, completing the Bulls’ 2009 schedule.
It will be the second FCS opponent on the schedule this year for the Bulls, which means one of the games will not count towards bowl eligibility. USF also plays in-state powerhouses Florida State and Miami.
USF was put in a bind when Florida International bought out of its agreement on Sept. 19 for $200,000. FIU will play Rutgers next season.
“We feel fortunate that a quality FCS opponent was available at this late date and that Charleston Southern was willing to adjust their schedule,” said USF Director of Athletics Doug Woolard. “We are happy that our fans will be able to see six home games at Raymond James Stadium this season, which was our primary consideration in filling the unexpected void in our 2009 schedule.
February 18, 2009
Elon defensive assistant Shane Burnham said Wednesday an opportunity to coach with his father Wally Burnham, who departed USF Tuesday, at Iowa State is still in discussion.
Burnham, who will take the same role in Ames, told the Times he considered coaching with his son to be “part of my Bucket List.” On Wednesday, Shane Burnham echoed that enthusiasm.
“With the respect that I have for him as a coach and a father, and the program that Iowa State has — it’d be a double-whammy for me,” Burnham said. “If it were to workout, he’d be able to watch his grandson grow, and I could learn a lot personally in a professional sense.”
Burnham said he has discussed the possibilities with his father and head coach Paul Rhoads at Iowa State, but declined to comment any further.
-K.K.
February 19, 2009
Former USF men’s soccer defender Yohance Marshall, who has been on trial with the Los Angeles Galaxy for the past week, said he could be with the team until March 5, and then the club has the option to negotiate a contract.
However, the team has the option to cut him from the squad at any time.
“It’s not all that different from USF with training, but the game is so much quicker,” Marshall said. “I’m just trying to do my best in training and earn a spot on this squad. I’m going to try and impress the coaching staff here as much as I can.”
If Marshall is cut, he said there are still options elsewhere. The 6-foot-2 native of Trinidad said he’s talked to the Seattle Sounders, the MLS’ newest expansion team, and a number of USL (United Soccer League) clubs.
“I’m hoping things work out here, but this isn’t the end of the road for me,” he said.
Marshall, who helped the USF defense to a school-record 12 shutouts last fall, said he was disappointed to be passed up in the MLS draft on Jan 15. He was projected to go as high as 10th in the first round.
“Things happen, and I’m not sure what happened, but I’m happy where I’m at right now,” he said. “I could have hung my head and felt sorry for myself, but I didn’t. I’ve working hard, and I’m OK with where I’m at.”
February 21, 2009
Okay, call it a haircut, a makeover, or whatever you want to call it. I felt it was time for a fresh new look to the Oracle Sports Blog, so I did some designing work on this new layout.
Still the same features: Live Blogs, Podcast posts, comments and pictures … just a little different look. I think it’s a bit crisper and easier to read.
I’ll be live at tonight’s USF-Purdue baseball game in Clearwater keeping you updated on what’s going on.
Keep in mind, as well, that sophomore guard Dominique Jones goes for 1,000 points today when the men’s basketball team faces No. 1 Connecticut on the road at 2 p.m. Jones is 15 points shy of the 1,000 point mark.
Enjoy the games, I’ll be on later with a baseball update.
Enjoy the new look and be safe this weekend.
-K.K.
February 21, 2009
Another USF loss was a disappointment for coach Stan Heath, but the concern over senior guard Jesus Verdejo may be even more important.
Verdejo did not dress for the Bulls’ game today against No. 1 Connecticut because of Plantar Fasciitis and Achilles Tendonitis in his right foot. Heath said he wanted to save Verdejo for “the last stretch of the year.”
Dominique Jones had a respectable 14 points in USF’s respectable 64-50 loss to No. 1 Connecticut Saturday, leaving the Bulls’ sophomore guard just one point shy of 1,000 in his career.
USF junior guard Chris Howard had 11 points, eight rebounds and eight assists, but as it’s been all year, poor shooting buried the Bulls in an upset effort. The Bulls finished with 32 percent shooting from the field.
7-foot-3 junior center Hasheem Thabeet led the Huskies with 21 points, nine rebounds and six blocks.
South Florida will make a tough trip back to Tampa, and then go right back up to Seton Hall for Wednesday night’s game against the Pirates, which could make it much tougher for Verdejo to return. One thing that is almost certain to happen is that Jones will break the 1,000 point mark.
I’ve been wrong before …
We’ll see ….
-K.K.
February 23, 2009
Despite missing senior guard Jesus Verdejo Saturday because of an injury, the Bulls were able to give No. 1 Connecticut all it could handle. But coach Stan Heath said Monday it is likely Verdejo will return for USF’s game against Seton Hall on Wednesday night.
Verdejo, who is suffering from Plantar Fasciitis in his right foot, remains ‘doubtful’ for today’s practice but is probable to participate in tomorrow’s workout.
USF finished under 60 points for the third consecutive game Saturday and having Verdejo’s 13.3 ppg average would certainly be a boost.
We’ll be monitoring the situation closely …
-K.K.
February 23, 2009
Hey guys …
Just going to pass along reports from the Tribune and the Times on the DC job situation at USF. According to the reports, coach Jim Leavitt interviewed two candidates over the weekend.
Nebraska linebackers coach Mike Ekeler could be an option after his interview. Nebraska coach Bo Pelini, who led the LSU defense to a national championship in 2007, certainly knows how to bring along a defensive staff.
However, Leavitt may stay close to Big East ties after an interview with former Rutgers secondary coach Chris Demarest. Demarest spent for seasons at Rutgers.
Don’t forget, Leavitt still has to fill the OC role, as well. But all roads point to USF passing game coordinator and receivers coach Mike Canales.
— USF baseball sophomores Stephen Hunt and Derrick Stultz were named to the 2009 Big East/Big Ten Challenge All-Tournament team (Honorable Mention).
Hunt batted .400 in three games, and Stultz earned the Bulls’ only win over the weekend, a 7-5 victory over Purdue on Saturday.
- K.K.
February 25, 2009
Illinois co-defensive coordinator Dan Disch has been offered the DC job at USF by coach Jim Leavitt, the Champaign News-Gazette reported Tuesday.
Disch is supposed to make a decision sometime today, but it won’t be an easy one. He’s spent five years with Illini coach Ron Zook carrying over to his time at Florida.
Disch also was a very successful coach in the Florida High School system in Jacksonville.
The Bulls could have a defensive coordinator as soon as tonight. Interesting …..
-K.K.
February 25, 2009
Last week, we had a unanimous No. 1 team for the second week in a row. Now, our student voters (much like everyone else) are having trouble figuring out who the top dog in the Big East is.
Connecticut barely edged Pittsburgh for the No. 1 spot this week. Both teams each have five first-place votes, with one going to Louisville. But UConn had one more second-place vote than Pittsburgh, putting the Huskies ahead.
Clearly, after Pitt’s stumble to Providence last night, the Big East regular-season championship is up for grabs. Plus, Pitt and UConn still meet one more time on March 7.
The rest of the poll looks similar, besides West Virginia leapfrogging Syracuse for the No. 6 spot. After the poll, we ask our voters, how many Big East teams will make the NCAA Tournament?
1. Connecticut (25-2, 13-2), 169 points (5 first-place votes)
2. Pittsburgh (25-3, 12-3), 168 points (5 first-place votes)
3. Louisville (22-5, 13-2), 157 points (1 first-place vote)
4. Marquette (23-4, 12-2), 141 points
5. Villanova (22-5, 10-4), 134 points
6. West Virginia (19-8, 8-6), 116 points
7. Syracuse (20-8, 8-7), 110 points
8. Providence (17-11, 9-7), 102 points
9. Cincinnati (17-10, 7-7), 84 points
10. Notre Dame (15-11, 6-8), 83 points
11. Georgetown (14-12, 5-10), 62 points
12. Seton Hall (14-12, 5-9), 57 points
13. St. John’s (13-15, 4-11), 44 points
14. South Florida (8-18, 3-11), 32 points
15. Rutgers (10-17, 1-13), 26 points
16. DePaul (8-19, 0-14), 11 points
Question of the week: How many teams will the Big East get into the NCAA Tournament?
Eight teams (6 votes)
The top seven teams in the conference should get in with ease. One of either Cincinnati, Providence or Notre Dame gets in, too, but only because of the weak mid-major group this year – not based on their respective resumes. – Tony Dobies, The Daily Athenaeum
Notre Dame is still a dangerous team and has three of the last four at home. With McAlarney and Harangody, the Irish could easily make a run of two or three wins in the Big East tournament. – Kerry Klecic, The Oracle
Seven teams (3 votes)
The Big East has lived up to the hype. It’s just that certain teams haven’t. – Mike Gladysz, The Pitt News
The top five are essentially locks and Syracuse and West Virginia are well on their way to lock status. For an eighth to get in, wins will be needed in the Big East tournament and will go to either Cincinnati or Providence. – Giuseppe Barone, The Setonian
Nine teams (2 votes)
Providence now has a couple of quality wins that voters can’t ignore, and playing in the toughest conference in the country will help them out as well. Notre Dame probably shouldn’t be in the Tournament, but their media bias will transfer into extra votes and put a ninth team in the field of 64. – Matthew Stein, The Daily Targum
Voters: Bailey Heaps, The Hoya; Catherine LaRoche, The Louisville Cardinal; David Cassilo, The Villanovan; Giuseppe Barone, The Setonian; John Borneman, The Marquette Tribune; Kerry Klecic, The Oracle; Kyle Austin, The Daily Orange; Matthew Stein, The Daily Targum; Mike Gladysz, The Pitt News; Ryan Holt, The Cowl; Tony Dobies, The Daily Athenaeum
February 26, 2009
Wow,
That was my first reaction when I heard this news. One of the most underrated players in the country, and one of the best in the Big East is out for the remainder of the season with a broken foot.
Here is the full AP story.
What a huge loss that is for Marquette, and it will be the end of James’ college career. He finishes with 1,749 career points.
That certainly won’t helpe the Golden Eagles’s chances at a Big East championship…..
-K.K.
February 28, 2009
I’m not sure whether to call it senior night or senior afternoon, but this is where you’ll find the live blog transcript for today’s women’s basketball game.
USF will honor seven seniors when the Bulls take on Cincinnati at the Sun Dome at 2 p.m.
Once I get situated at the S.D. later, I’ll come back on for a quick briefing session with more information about the senior class.
Until then, enjoy your Saturday folks ….
-K.K.
February 28, 2009
Shantia Grace, Jazmine Sepulveda, Crystal Ayers, Ashley Sanders, Jessica Lawson, Brittany Denson and Kelsey Varney are all standing at half court here at the Sun Dome with flowers and portraits in their arms.
Today is “Senior Day” for the USF women’s basketball team as seven Bulls end their home careers with Cincinnati providing the opposition.
Grace is the most noteable of the class. With seven points, she will move into second on USF’s all-time scoring list. Another interesting note, which has to do with today’s contest, is that she is the only member of the the 2006 squad that went to the NCAA Tournament.
Obviously, that is a storyline today. The Bulls sit alone in 10th place in the Big East but two wins would put them in good position for an NCAA Tournament bid.
The Bearcats, entering this game at 13-14 and last in the Big East, would be the easiest of the two remaining teams. The Bulls play Villanova (17-11, 9-5) Monday.
Be back with an update in a few….cheers….
-K.K.
February 28, 2009
Welp, it took 43 seconds for the Bulls to get out to a good start. Coach Jose Fernandez started five seniors (Sanders, Denson, Lawson, Sepulveda and Grace), and Sepulveda and Grace hit two early 3-pointers.
Cincinnati took an early T.O.
6-0 USF….
-K.K.
February 28, 2009
All but four of USF’s points have been scored by seniors, and the Bulls lead 22-11 here at the Sun Dome with less than 11 minutes remaining in the first half.
Like it’s been for most of their careers, Shantia Grace and Jazmine Sepulveda lead the team in scoring with five points each.
USF jumped out to a quick 12-2 lead but the Bearcats responded to cut the lead to eight. It was two juniors, however, that pushed the lead back over 11. Porche Grant and Janae Stokes each hit a basket…
-K.K.
February 28, 2009
A strong five minute stretch by South Florida, and the Bulls lead 31-14 at the 7:52 mark in the first half.
Shantia Grace is heating up, hitting her second 3-pointer just moments ago. She’s 5-of-6 from the field and on a 6-0 run by herself as we speak…
USF is shooting 63 percent from the floor, which is far better than Cincinnati’s 22 percent.
You can tell Grace is enjoying senior day. She’s thrown up a couple “three” signs after draning some long-range shots today….niccee….
-K.K.
February 28, 2009
Shantia Grace is making the most of her last game at the Sun Dome, churning out a 15-point first half performance to give the Bulls a 46-32 lead over Cincinnati at halftime.
An 11-2 Bearcats run made this thing a little less convincing towards the end of the half, but USF still is in command thanks to Grace’s 6-for-11 shooting.
Senior Brittany Denson is contributing, as well. Denson has 10 points on a perfect 4-of-4 shooting performance from the field and 2-of-2 free-throw shooting.
The Bulls are 51 percent from the floor as a team, holding Cincinnati to 38 percent shooting.
Be back on later with another update…..
-K.K.
February 28, 2009
As one-sided this game has been, Cincy is doing a good job of hanging around.
This time, the Bearcats have cut the lead to nine, trailing 62-57 with 11:00 remaining in the game. I can confirm, USF coach Jose Fernandez is HEATED during the media timeout. He was yelling about missed shots or something, but nothing really quoteable.
USF led by as many as 18 in this half, but good defense by the Bearcats has been the key in this second half. I don’t have the official stats in front of me, but the Bulls were shooting somewhere around 60 percent in the first half. Cincinnati has made it a point to conest shots, and have brought that percentage down considerably.
A loss would all but kill USF’s chances at making it to the NCAA Tournament. Verrrryy interesting.
-K.K.
February 28, 2009
With less than four minutes to play, it seems as if USF will escape a second half surge by Cincinnati and walk out of the Sun Dome with a must-win.
Then again, I’ve been wrong before.
The Bulls lead 75-68 with 3:48 remaining in the game, but it’s been awfully interesting the pat ten minutes.
Cincinnati cut the lead to five less than six minutes ago, but a balanced USF attack has helped the Bulls maitain the lead.
Five players (Grace, Sepulveda, Denson, Lawson and Stokes) have over 10 points …
-K.K.
February 28, 2009
For awhile, it looked like USF’s NCAA Tournament chances were dwindling on Senior Day at the Sun Dome, but four seniors scored in double figures and Jessica Lawson hit a crucial layup with less than a minute remaining, and the Bulls prevailed 84-78.
With about 30 seconds left in the game, and the Bulls leading by four, Shantia Grace was triple-teams in her own half trying to bring the ball up court. However, after a couple failed attempts to break the press, she found an open Jazmine Sepulveda, who found Lawson alone underneath the hoop. Lawson made the easy two — and finished off the game.
The Bulls shot an impressive 55 percent from the floor and kept their chances at getting a ‘Big Dance’ bid. With the win, Monday’s game at Villanova has become the biggest game of the year. If USF can win, it would certainly put the team in a position to be in the top eight in the conference entering the Big East tournament.
We will see ….
-K.K.
March 1, 2009
Greetings …
This is where you’ll find our live blog transcript for today’s game between USF and West Virginia.
I’ll get an official account on whether senior guard Jesus Verdejo will be available for the remainder of the season, but it’s likely he will not return. Assuming USF goes out in the first couple rounds of the Big East tournament, the Puerto Rico native’s career may have already come to a close.
Verdejo is struggling with a right foot injury that has sidelined him the last two weeks.
Bob Huggins and the Mountaineers make their way to the Sun Dome at 4 p.m. I’ll update before tip.
-K.K.
March 1, 2009
And, yes, there will be a halftime podcast today
Okay folks, I’m here at the Sun Dome and just sitting to the left of me is WVU coach Bob Huggines — not wearing a pullover jacket!
To the disappointment of many out there, he’s dressed in a stylish blue sport coat. You’ll have to wait one more year for any pullover jackets or sweaters … bummer.
Anyways, let’s focus on the basketball aspect of this game, shall we?
The beginning storyline for the Bulls today is the status of senior guard Jesus Verdejo, who is not participating in warmup stretches right now. We won’t be seeing USF’s second leading scorer today, which will hurt with USF’s effort in trying to stop the Mountaineers (19-9, 8-7).
West Virginia is tied for seventh in the Big East with Syracuse and Cincinnati, but the Orange are up big on the Bearcats right now. For Huggins, a hiccup today at the Sun Dome could prove costly in terms of an NCAA T. bid.
Watch out for Devin Ebanks, who is making a name for himself as a freshman in the Big East. Ebanks was the conference’s ROW for the second consecutive week after averaging a double-double in wins over Notre Dame and Rutgers.
At 6-foot-9 and 205 pounds, he could be an interesting matchup against the likes of Alex Rivas and perhaps even Eladio Espinosa (6-foot-7) … then again, there has to be a reason why I’m not in the coaching business…
Be back on with an update at a stoppage point.
-K.K.
March 1, 2009
Junior guard Chris Howard just knocked down his first three-point shot of the day, and the Bulls and Mountaineers are tied 13-13 at the Sun Dome.
In place of senior guard Jesus Verdejo is freshman Justin Leemow, who’s seen his minutes increase substantially since Verdejo’s injury woes. Leemow is bringing good defense to the table for the Bulls.
WVU freshman guard Darryl Bryant has eight points but still no word on Huggins’ choice to wear a blue sport coat today. It is a bit chilly outside …
-K.K.
March 1, 2009
West Virginia holds a slender 25-24 lead at the Sun Dome thanks to nine points from Darryl Bryant.
-K.K.
March 1, 2009
It looks as if USF’s effort to creat its own March madness will have to wait after WVU guard Alex Ruoff has hit two three-point shots and a layup in the midst of a 10-1 run by the Mountaineers to begin the first half.
After shooting 42.9 percent in the first half, the Bulls are struggling to create open looks and knock down shots.
Chris Howar’ds eight points still lead the way …
-K.K.
March 1, 2009
After cutting the West Virginia lead to 42-35 with less than 13 minutes remainin in the game, a controversial call caused Stan Heath to get a technical foul and Alex Ruoff hit 1-of-2 free-throws to help the Mountaineers maintain a steady 47-35 lead.
I believe it was Chris Howard who was called for a hacking-foul nearly 60 feet from the basket, but I haven’t received officla word on who the foul was called on. Nevertheless, Heath flipped and walked onto the court — and mayber rightfully so.
March 1, 2009
I’m not sure if the Bulls are equipped to climb this nine-point mountain.
With less than four minutes remaining, USF is hanging tough, but it seems as if West Virginia will be too much today, as the Mountaineers lead 59-50 at the Sun Dome.
USF sophomore guard Dominique Jones is trying to pull his weight in a comeback, standing with a game-high 18 points. It seems hard to me that Jones should be leading this game in scoring, considering Alex Ruoff’s performance for the Mountaineers.
Ruoff hit eight of WVU’s first 10 points to begin the second half and has been the difference today. Then again, it always seems like Jones just sneaks up on you with 20 points or s0 — if that’s possible.
We’ll see if USF can mount a comeback … If not, this will conclude the live blog. I’ve got deadline!
-K.K.
March 1, 2009
Just wanted to finalize things. USF falls 64-50 today at the Sun Dome.
I’m running around like a chicken with my head cut off! Busy busy busy! Check tomorrow’s paper or Web site usforacle.com for more coverage.
-K.K.
March 4, 2009
It will probably be redundant to update you on the hiring of former Cincinnati defensive coordinator Joe Tresey for the same role at USF, replacing former USF DC Wally Burnham, who left to take the same job at Iowa State.
Tresey will take over the defensive backs.
(I had some mixed up information before…sorry)
————————-
The USF women’s basketball team has put itself in a great position for an NCAA Tournament bid. ESPN.com has the Bulls projected as a 12th seed and barely scraping in.
An interesting opponent USF will most likely face in the second round of the Big East tourney (the Bulls have a first-round bye) is the No. 9 seed Marquette.
The Golden Eagles, who have beaten the Bulls twice this season, just have to get past last place Cincinnati to slot the third matchup this season.
Needless to say, USF wins that game and its punching a ticket to the ‘Big Dance.’
I’ll try to get something on here on Friday with new D-Coordinator Joe Tresey….Stay tuned.
-K.K.
March 4, 2009
Connecticut remains at the top of the conference in the last Big East Student Writers’ Poll of the year. Pittsburgh was the only other team with first-place votes. Those two teams meet on Saturday to decide the regular-season champion.
With Marquette’s two losses in a row, Villanova has crept up to tie the Golden Eagles for the fourth spot in the poll. And Syracuse moved back in front of West Virginia for the sixth spot.
We asked our voters to pick the Big East awards this week and the results are interesting. Lots of votes across the board for candidates, a sign that there are plenty of choices and few clear front-runners. Results are after the poll.
1. Connecticut (27-2, 15-2), 157 points (7 first-place votes)
2. Pittsburgh (26-3, 13-3), 152 points (3 first-place votes)
3. Louisville (23-5, 14-2), 141 points
4t. Marquette (23-6, 12-4), 125 points
4t. Villanova (24-6, 12-5), 125 points
6. Syracuse (22-8, 10-7), 103 points
7. West Virginia (20-9, 9-7), 99 points
8. Providence (18-11, 10-7), 98 points
9. Notre Dame (16-13, 7-10), 74 points
10. Cincinnati (18-12, 8-9), 72 points
11. Georgetown (15-13, 6-11), 60 points
12. Seton Hall (15-13, 6-10), 51 points
13. St. John’s (15-15, 6-11), 43 points
14. South Florida (9-20, 4-13), 29 points
15. Rutgers (10-20, 1-16), 21 points
16. DePaul (8-21, 0-16), 10 points
Big East Player of the Year
DeJuan Blair, 6 votes
Luke Harangody, 1 vote
Jerel McNeal, 1 vote
Hasheem Thabeet, 1 vote
Terrence Williams, 1 vote
Big East Coach of the Year
Keno Davis, 4 votes
Jamie Dixon, 2 votes
Bob Huggins, 1 vote
Rick Pitino, 1 vote
Buzz Williams, 1 vote
Jay Wright, 1 vote
Big East Rookie of the Year
Greg Monroe, 4 votes
Mike Rosario, 3 votes
Devin Ebanks, 2 votes
Samardo Samuels, 1 vote
Big East Defensive Player of the Year
Hasheem Thabeet, 7 votes
DeJuan Blair, 1 vote
Big East Most Improved Player of the Year
Dante Cunningham, 2 votes
DeJuan Blair, 1 vote
Da’Sean Butler, 1 vote
Weyinmi Efejuku, 1 vote
Jeremy Hazell, 1 vote
Jon Kale, 1 vote
Hasheem Thabeet, 1 vote
Wesley Matthews, 1 vote
Big East Sixth Man of the Year
Corey Fisher, 2 votes
Craig Austrie, 1 vote
Marshon Brooks, 1 vote
Gilbert Brown, 1 vote
Preston Knowles, 1 vote
Kemba Walker, 1 vote
-K.K.
March 5, 2009
After a stellar senior season, USF guard Shantia Grace was named first-team All-Big East Thursday. She’s been named second-team All-conference the past two seasons.
Grace led the Bulls with 15.1 points per game and 4.4 assists per game, scoring in double figures in 26 of 30 games this season.
On Nov. 23, Grace dropped a career-high and school record 44 points against Coppin St. Here is my game story of that performance.
The Bulls (21-9, 8-8) , who have a first-round bye in the Big East tournament, will face the winner of No. 9 seed Marquette and No. 16 seed Cincinnati on Saturday at 2 p.m.
-K.K.
March 6, 2009
Spring football is almost here, and USF finally has its full schedule set for 2009.
The Bulls will have an interesting five game stretch between Oct. 3 and Oct. 30, including road trips to Florida State, Syracuse and Pittsburgh and home games against Cincinnati and West Virginia.
Seeing a final schedule just makes me more excited about 2009,” said coach Jim Leavitt in a statement. “We start spring ball next week and are already going full bore in preparations for the upcoming season. It’s a great schedule, we are excited to have bye weeks before our Thursday games, and we hope to have the same atmosphere for the West Virginia game on a Friday night, that we had a couple years ago.”
Here is the schedule:
Sat, Sept. 5: Wofford
Sat, Sept. 12: @ Western Kentucky
Sat, Sept. 19: Charleston Southern
Sat, Sept. 26: @ Florida State
Sat, Oct. 3: @ Syracuse
Sat, Oct. 10: BYE
Thurs, Oct. 15: Cincinnati 7 p.m. (ESPN)
Sat, Oct. 24: @ Pittsburgh
Fri, Oct. 30: West Virginia 8 p.m. (ESPN2)
Sat, Nov. 7: BYE
Thurs, Nov. 12: @ Rutgers 7:30 p.m. (ESPN)
Sat, Nov. 21: Louisville
Sat, Nov. 28: Miami (FL)
Sat, Dec. 5: @ Connecticut (ABC, ESPN or ESPN2)
Cheers,
-K.K.
March 6, 2009
Entering into its final road trip this season, USF could still be without senior guard Jesus Verdejo, coach Stan Heath said Friday.
Before the Bulls left for N.J. on Friday for Saturday’s game against Rutgers, Heath said Verdejo continues to “test out” a lingering Plantar Fasciitis and Achilles Tendonitis injury in his right ankle but remains questionable against the Scarlet Knights.
Despite missing three of the last four games, Verdejo is still second on the team in scoring, averaging 12.8 ppg. The way Heath sounded, it’s probable he won’t play against the Scarlet Knights, but a return for the Big East tournament is possible.
“He’s better than out — I can tell you that,” Heath said.
Depending on the outcomes this weekend, the Bulls will either play Georgetown, Seton Hall or Notre Dame in the Big East Tournament.
MSG
Just an FYI: The Bulls will stay in N.J. after the Rutgers game and then head straight to New York for the Big East Tournament at Madison Square Garden. I’m sure we’ll have more of this in next week’s paper, but the excitement of some of the players was obvious (for good reason).
Freshman Justin Leemow: “I’ve played in the Garden before for the Nike Super Six in 2005, with Levance Fields and them … just the fact of playing in the Garden, that’s something that will be fun.”
Sophomore Dominique Jones: “I’ve been in there, I’ve seen it on t.v., but I’ve never played in it so it will be a good experience for me. I’m excited about it. I’m trying not to be too excited. I’ve got to try and be calm on the court, though.”
Women’s Note: Bulls to play Cincinnati
Don’t forget about the women’s basketball team, either. USF plays Cincinnati tomorrow after the Bearcats’ surprise upset of No. 9 seed Marquette in the first round of the Big East Tournament. A win for the Bulls and coach Jose Fernandez can basically punch his ticket to the NCAA Tournament.
-K.K.
March 7, 2009
Despite two good looks with the clock dwindling, the USF men’s basketball team couldn’t find a way to tie the game with last-second shots, and the Bulls fell 45-42 at Rutgers Saturday in their last regular season game of the year.
Trailing by three with less than 12 seconds remaining, freshman Augustus Gilchrist had a three-point effort go off the rim, but junior Chris Howard grabbed an offensive rebound. Howard then found senior Jesus Verdejo, who launched a three-pointer from the top of the key that clanked off the back of the iron as the buzzer sounded.
USF had only one possession in the final two minutes after two-straight offensive rebounds by the Scarlet Knights that led to Rutgers sophomore Earl Pettis’ tip-in to make it 45-42 with 0:13 seconds remaining. Rutgers finished with 15 offensive rebounds.
Neither team shot well. USF finished 29 percent from the floor, while Rutgers shot 31 percent and scored two points in the final eight minutes after extending its lead to 43-34 at the 8:40 mark.
Verdejo returned from Plantar Fasciitis and Achilles Tendonitis in his right ankle to finish with five points in 22 minutes played. Sophomore Dominique Jones went 0-for-6 from three-point range but finished with a team-high 11 points.
The Bulls will stay in New Jersey on Saturday and Sunday then leave for New York and the Big East Tournament on Monday. USF will practice at the Boys and Girls High School in Brooklyn on Monday to prepare for Tuesday night’s game against Seton Hall at 9 p.m. in Madison Square Garden.
-k.k.
March 10, 2009
I know all of you are just dying in anguish at the sound of that …
With this week winding down, the elections and various sports events, the blog is officially shutdown until March 21. I’ll be out of town for spring break (YES!), and I hope you all have a safe holiday.
Peace be the Journey.
-K.K.
March 19, 2009
Hello all!
Hope you guys are enjoying your spring break. I’m sure most of you were shocked of the news that the USF women’s basketball team was snubbed of a spot in the NCAA tournament.
Meaning…the Bulls will host a second round game (after receiving a first-round bye) at the Sun Dome Saturday night at 7. USF will face the winner of the Florida Gulf Coast-George Washington game, which is scheduled for tonight.
I’m now back in Tampa after a trip to Nebraska, and I’ll be at the WNIT second round game live blogging. Remember students, the first 100 get in free with their student ID’s. Don’t forget those.
Hope to see you there.
-K.K.
March 20, 2009
USF knows who it will face in the second round of the WNIT on Saturday night. Florida Gulf Coast needed two overtimes to take care of visiting George Washington, but the Eagles finally prevailed with a 97-94 victory Thursday night in the first round of the WNIT.
Here’s that game story.
So FGCU (26-4) will make the short trip up from Fort Myers to Tampa for Saturday night’s showdown at the Sun Dome at 7 p.m.
The Eagles won the Atlantic Sun regular season with a 17-3 conference record but because of NCAA transition rules (just joining Division I) they couldn’t participate in their conference tournament.
That raises an interesting question … The Bulls are arguably a NCAA quality team (just missing an at-large bid). Are the Eagles, too? They’ve won 17-straight games and would have been favorites to snag an automatic bid in the A-Sun tournament.
It could be a very interesting contest on Saturday night. I’ll be blogging court side at the Sun Dome. See you then…
K.K.
March 21, 2009
We’ll be focusing on basketball tonight as the USF women’s basketball team hosts Florida Gulf Coast for the second round of the WNIT (P.S. I’ll be blogging 7 p.m.) but just wanted to pass along some other stuff.
Everyone on campus will spend this week transitioning back from a nice spring break. That goes for the USF football team, too. USF heads back to spring practices as the Bulls prepare for the Green-Gold spring game on April 11.
We’ll be covering this all week, of course, but just wanted to point out some interesting links from ESPN.com’s Big East blogger, Brian Bennett, who wrote a nice feature on defensive end George Selvie.
Bennett writes about Selvie’s return from a disappointing year (pretty good when you’re all-Big East and it’s a disappointing year…) and that he’s brought in lengthy stretching routines to his workouts after noticing Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker James Harrison doing so when the Super Bowl champs were using USF’s facilities.
The full story is here.
Also, Bennett ranks the strength of schedules in the Big East — pitting USF seventh out of eight despite games against Florida State and Miami. Thought you might be interested in seeing how everyone else stacks up.
See you guys in a couple hours.
-K.K.
March 21, 2009
Okay, I’m here and ready for tonight’s 7 p.m. WNIT tip. The Bulls (22-10) are hosting Florida Gulf Coast (26-4) and I’ve got to say, there is a strong following of Eagles fans here at the Sun Dome.
It’s an interesting matchup. The Eagles defeated USF in last year’s WNIT and if it weren’t for NCAA transition rules, FGCU would to have ben the favorite to win the Atlantic Sun tournament and proceed to the NCAA Tournament.
For the Bulls, it was a disappointing selection Sunday as they were snubbed of an at-large bid.
My thoughts? Well I think it’d be fitting, considering the make up of these two teams, to take a look at both team’s resumes before we begin.
FGCU:
Record: 26-4 RPI: 58
Key Wins: Florida (by two), Central Florida (by 13) and George Washington (in 2 OT).
Key Losses: @ Stetson (by nine), @ Belmont (by five)
USF:
Record: (22-10) RPI: 57
Key Wins: Iowa ( in OT), Texas Tech ( by 10) and @ Rutgers (by three)
Key Losses: Marquette (twice)
- In terms of RPI (according to RealTime), very similar. Just minutes away from the tip, I’ll be on in a bit.
By the way, “Azul” (FGCU’s mascot) and “Rocky” (USF’s mascot) are having a three-point shooting contest right now …
-K.K.
March 21, 2009
If you wanted offense, you’re getting it right now.
USF jumped out to a 4-0 lead in the opening minute and a half, but FGCU has since gone on an 11-2 run to lead 11-6 at the first media timeout here at the Sun Dome.
The Eagles, who have brought a strong crowd following (no word on how much, yet), are led by Chelsea Lyle’s four points.
USF, who has a size advantage in this game, have four points in the paint.
-K.K.
March 21, 2009
All-Big East senior Shantia Grace has been quiet (like two points quiet) but USF’s post has been making up for things. Still, the Bulls trail the hot-shooting Eagles 20-17 at the 11:21 mark in the first half.
USF forwards Brittany Denson and Jessica Lawson have a combined 10 points, but it’s been FGCU’s shooting that’s impressed most. Unfortunately, I don’t have a stat sheet in front of me, but I would guess 50-60 percent.
For the Eagles, freshman Kelsey Jacobson has come into the game in the last four minutes and really given a boost, hitting two three-pointers.
-K.K.
March 21, 2009
Just as I was about to post USF’s first lead of the night when junior Janae Stokes hit her first three-point shot, FGCU’s Emma Beddome went back-door on the Bulls and gave the Eagles the lead back, 28-27, at the Sun Dome.
The Bulls have been doing things on the inside with good performances from Lawson and Denson. However, it’s on the outside where they’ve faltered. Jazmine Sepulveda has only one three-pointer, Stokes has only one and senior Shantia Grace has two points.
Still, we’ve got a one-point game.
-K.K.
March 21, 2009
Freshman Jasmine Wynne has come along with a steady nine-point performance and the Bulls have regrouped to take a 36-33 at the Sun Dome over FGCU.
USF, which trailed up until the eight minute mark, has been leading for the past four minutes.
A minor storyline has been senior Shantia Grace, who has only two points. Minutes ago, USF coach Jose Fernandez replaced her with Wynne (who exploded on offense). When Grace was walking off the court, Fernandez asked “Are you alright?” Grace just shook her head yes and sat on the bench.
She’s in right now and USF is able to sustain the lead without her offensive production right now.
March 21, 2009
Back and forth and plenty of offense, FGCU has taken leads — and blown them — in this first half. But as halftime approached, the Eagles went on their most impressive run yet.
Powered by Brittany Brown’s three-point shooting, FGCU, which ended the half on a 12-3 run, has a 48-40 lead at the break.
Brown has nine points and all-Atlantic Sun forward Chelsea Lyles has 10 to lead the Eagles.
The main question coming ino this game: Could USF prove to the committee that they were in fact an NCAA tournament team?
Right now, the answer seems to be now. Senior Shantia Grace finished the half with two points, but it’s been her replacement off the bench, Jasmine Wynne, who has impressed. Wynne finished with 12 points on 4-for-6 shooting.
We’ll see if USF can turn this thing around.
-K.K.
March 21, 2009
Here’s shooting for you: 19-for-33 from the field and 10-for-18 from three-point range.That’s what FGCU is rolling with right now.
The Eagles, helped by all-Atlantic Sun forward Chelsea Lyles’ 15 points, hold a 56-48 lead thanks to their stellar shooting.
Right now, the FGCU mascot and cheerleaders just got done doing a cheer and dance session on USF’s court — and the Eagles women’s basketball team is doing a simlilar number.
USF got a good signal when senior Shantia Grace hit the first basket of the second half but since then she’s been scoreless (still with just four points).
-K.K.
March 21, 2009
A short 30-second timeout for FGCU as the Bulls have cut the lead to 60-56 at the 14:08 mark in the second half.
I think it’s funny: Remember last post when I said FGCU’s cheerleaders and mascot were doing a dance on the court with a steady lead? Okay, USF has that going on now.
Perhaps a good sign for the Bulls? Then again, what do I know?
-K.K.
March 21, 2009
A couple posts ago, I highlighted FGCU’s team shooting performance. Very impressive.
The Eagles are shooting 59 percent from the floor and 57 percent from three-point range. So, on the individual side, FGCU has been helped by these three shooting performances:
Chelsea Lyles: 6-for-11 from the field, 3-for-7 from behind the arc and 15 points.
Kelsey Jacobson: 4-for-6 from three-point range, 12 points
Brittany Brown: 4-for-5 from the field, 2-for-3 from the three-point line, 11 points
Still, despite the hot shooting of the Eagles, the Bulls have things tied up at 63-63.
-K.K.
March 21, 2009
I just said this a moment ago: “It has to be nice when you can sit an all-Big East guard and atill get 18 points from the replacement.”
Actually, right now, freshman Jasmine Wynne is sitting the bench and Shantia Grace is in. But Wynne has come in and helped the Bulls hold a 67-66 lead because of her 18 points.
Quick 30-second timeout. Be back soon.
-K.K.
March 21, 2009
Typical of this game, FGCU has retained the lead.
Kelsey Jacobson, who is 5-for-7 from outside, has 15 points and has led the Eagles to a 68-67 lead with 7:17 remaining.
FGCU has cooled down, a bit. Now shooting just over 50 percent from the field and outside. USF’s difference? Rebounding. The Bulls are on top of the boards by a commanding 33-18 margin.
-KK
March 21, 2009
FGCU leads 70-67 with 6:18 to play in the second half.
Just an important note: Brittany Denson, who has 18 points and nine rebounds, remains on the bench with four fouls. Huge loss for the Bulls. It will be interesting to see when she goes back in. I’ll let you know.
KK
March 21, 2009
Jasmine Wynne did a cross over dribble and launched a shot from the top of the key — Bank.
Wynne’s two-point shot has given USF a 75-74 lead with 3:06 on the clock. More coming with a media timeout soon.
KK
March 21, 2009
With 1:05 remaining and Shantia Grace at the line to take two free-throws, USF leads 75-74, still, at the Sun Dome.
Nothing big has changed since last times quick hit except Brittany Denson has played two minutes since sitting out for a majority of the second half with four fouls. Denson is in right now and has 18 points.
Also a weird thing: A minute ago, Jessica Lawson looked at coach Fernandez and gave him a weird look and then tugged on her jersey. I’m not sure if that means anything, but she’s out right now on the bench. Remember: She has battled a knee injury all season.
KK
March 21, 2009
Freshman Jasmine Wynne, who leads the Bulls with 22 points, sliced down the lane with less than 10 seconds left and has given the Bulls a two-point lead, 79-77, with seven seconds remaining.
An interesting turn of events. Just seconds before, FGCU’s Chelsea Lyles tied things up with a three-pointer.
FGCU’s ball with a chance to tie.
March 21, 2009
Just after Wynne had slashed through the lane to give USF a dramatic two-point lead with seven seconds remaining, FGCU junior Adrianne McNally did an almost identical feat.
McNally drove down the left side and made a left-handed layup to tie the game at 79 with two seconds left. USF then took the rebound and chucked a half-court shot that didn’t make the rim, resounding a sigh from the home crowd.
Overtime.
-K.K.
March 21, 2009
A tough loss for Florida Gulf Coast as Adrianne McNally, who hit the shot to send this game into overtime has fouled out.
Since then, no team has been able to find offense, but Jasmine Wynne’s jumper has given USF a slim 81-79 lead with 2:15 remaining…
-KK
March 21, 2009
Jessica Lawson just completed a huge three-point play and the Bulls lead 86-81 in overtime with 44 seconds on the clock.
Lawson, who has 19 points, got the put back to go in despite being mauled by FGCU defenders.
USF has the ball and a five point lead. Is this thing over? I’m not ready for that. Also a note: Jasmine Wynne has a career-high 26 points.
KK
March 21, 2009
FGCU had the shot it wanted, with all-Atlantic Sun standout Chelsea Lyles at the top of the key alone for an open three-pointer. With the Eagles trailing by six, however, Lyles couldn’t capitalize, and the Bulls escaped with an 88-81 overtime victory at the Sun Dome in the second round of the WNIT.
As it had been all game, Jasmine Wynne capped off a good performance with four points in OT to lead USF (23-10). The freshman guard finished 10-for-16 from the field and had a career-high 26 points.
With two seconds remaining in regulation, FGCU’s Adrianne McNalley drove to the lane and hit a left-handed layup to send the game into overtime. Despite trailing by as many as eight at one point, the Bulls, helped by points in the paint, were able to claw back in the second half.
The Bulls finished with a commanding 56-24 lead in points inside and 46-26 on the rebounding end. For FGCU, it was hot shooting that kept them in the game, going 46 percent on the game.
The Eagles shot 61 percent from the field in the first half.
Aside from Wynne’s performance, Brittany Denson, who sat out for a portion of the second half with four fouls, finished with 18 points and 12 rebounds on 7-for-13 shooting.
With the win, the Bulls bounce back from last year’s loss in the WNIT to FGCU (26-5) and move on to the third round to face either Ole Miss or Murray St, which play tomorrow at 5 p.m.
The third round is scheduled to take place Wednesday-Friday and the Bulls should know soon who and when they are playing.
KK
March 23, 2009
He goes by ‘Q,’ but his talent is hard to question. 
After a freshman season that saw Quenton Washington play in 12 games, the USF
cornerback is looking to settle into a starting role in the defensive back field for new defensive coordinators Joe Tresey and David Blackwell.
Got to talking with the Fort Myers native and we talked about last season, bracketology and what he does in his free time.
KK: If someone looked at your mp3 player, who would be on the most-played list?
Washington: That’s a tough one, but probably Plies. I like hip-hop.
KK: This a big one: Coke or Pepsi?
W: Without a doubt it’s Pepsi, though I don’t drink a lot
of soda.
KK: Is that because coach Jim Leavitt drinks a couple Pepsi’s a day?
W: No man, it just tastes better.
KK: What’s the one movie you’re embarrassed to let people know
you like?
W: Oh, man, you’re kidding me. And this is going to be public, but I like Shrek a lot.
KK: What’s your favorite sport other than football?
W: Basketball. I played it in high school.
KK: Who do you think will make the Final Four?
W: Oh, UNC for sure, I think the Tar Heels will win it. After that, I’m going to have to take Memphis, Louisville and Pittsburgh.
KK: What was your favorite moment from last season?
W: It probably would have to be the Tennessee Martin game. It was my first game, and it was good to be out there playing.
KK: Who are a couple famous people you’d like to meet?
W: I’d really like to meet Deion Sanders. He went to my high school. I’d also like to meet (Cleveland Cavaliers forward) Lebron James.
KK: Who’s the hardest hitter on the team?
W: Probably Kion Wilson.
KK: Who’s the hardest receiver you’ve had to cover?
W: I think the toughest one is from our school, Carlton Mitchell.
KK: Last question: Who is the fastest defensive back?
W: Without question it’s me.
March 26, 2009
Nope. Live tweeting.
I’ll be at the Sun Dome for tonight’s third round WNIT game between USF and Mississippi, but I won’t be live blogging here. Instead, I’ll be using the Oracle’s twitter account to give more frequent updates!
The Oracle launched a twitter account about a month ago, and we’re hoping to use that more in our sports coverage.
Here’s the link. I’ll be there around 6:30. See you there.
-K.K.
March 26, 2009
Greetings tonight’s followers.
The Bulls enter tonight’s game after an 88-81 defeat of Florida Gulf Coast. The Rebels made things a bit easier, pounding Murray State 87-49.
The interesting story line for USF last game was the size advantage. The Bulls beat FGCU considerably on the inside in rebounding and point in the paint. Tonight? Don’t expect it to be as easy.
Ole Miss has four players over 6-foot-3, including senior Shawn Goff, who averages 13.7 ppg and 6.6 rpg.
If you remember from last game, USF’s first-team all-Big East guard Shantia Grace had a tough time getting involved on offense, scoring just eight points in 40 minutes played. It was freshman Jasmine Wynne, however, who made up for it, scoring a season-high 26 points.
There’s really not much of a comparison when it comes to the resume. USF holds a 23-10 record while Ole Miss is 18-14, finishing tied for ninth in the SEC.
In the regular season the Rebels defeated UCF, No. 18 Vanderbilt an lost two games to No. 6 Auburn by less than eight points.
OK, I’m goin back to Twitter for the game. Thanks for joining us.
-KK
March 26, 2009
Just a reminder that I’m on Twitter tonight for the USF women’s basketball game.
You can find my live transcript here with an account
http://twitter.com/USFOracle
March 26, 2009
Alex Cobb, Correspondent
Despite a slow start, the University of South Florida women’s basketball team progressed into the quarterfinals of the WNIT with a 74-57 victory over Mississippi (18-15) at the Sun Dome on Thursday night, giving the Bulls a matchup with St. Bonaventure in the fourth round.
The Rebels began on an 11-4 run but the Bulls came back, putting together a 20-10 run to tie the game with 8:20 remaining in the first half.
The Bulls trailed Ole Miss 40-38 at halftime, and coach Jose Fernandez told senior Jazmine Sepulveda to help the team get energy back.
“I told Jazz to tell the team: Don’t let this be your last 20 minutes of your career,” Fernandez said.
The Bulls came out with the energy it needed, stringing together an 11-4 run of its own to begin the half. The Rebels tried to rally but never got within five points for the remainder of the game.
Junior Janae Stokes helped the Bulls with outside shooting, scoring 13 points.
“That’s (Stokes),” Fernandez said. “She’s a shooter. She’s the type of kid that can just get on a roll and think that basket is four-feet wide.”
All-Big East guard Shantia Grace struggled in the second round against FGCU, scoring eight points. Thursday, however, she put up a game-high 18 points, going 6-for-12 from the field.
“We just came out with heart and said we weren’t going to lose,” Grace said. “Once one person stepped up, the rest of the team stepped up.”
The Bulls shot 3-for-3 from the free-throw line, taking their season record to 11-0 when shooting 70 percent or higher from the stripe.
The Bulls advance to the quarterfinals of the WNIT and are scheduled to face St. Bonaventure in New York at 1 p.m. on Sunday.
March 28, 2009
He was standing there at USF’s scrimmage on Saturday, wearing a Cincinnati Reds cap backwards without a care in the world.
Robert Marve and his father were in attendance of today’s workout amidst hundreds of fans and potential recruits, and Tom Edrington of the USF Examiner writes that he’ll soon announce his decision to become a Bull.
Marve talked to many USF players — as well as exchanging coversation with coach Jim Leavitt and offensive coordinator Mike Canales.
His father, Eugene, said that a decision, however, won’t come until sometime in May. Eugene said Marve has narrowed things down to about four schools, with the Bulls included.
“It’d be a good fit for Robert because of Grothe being a senior,” he said. “It really works out for us in that sense. We really enjoy the coaching staff and what they’re bringing to the table at South Florida.”
April 2, 2009
Someone finally convinced USF coach Jim Leavitt to apply the fitness he’s earned with all the sprinting he does before football games.
When Leavitt takes the field on Aprill 11 for the spring game, he will have a chance to square off against a USF student in the 40-yard dash.
There has been talk of it around spring practice, but USF finally announced today that the race plans are final. When the Bulls host a student combine on Saturday, there will be a preliminary round for the event. Then, at the spring game, the finals will be against Leavitt and if the finalists beat him, they’ll receive a t-shirt.
According to Leavitt, he thinks he can run a “5.9″ 40-yard dash. No word yet on whether someone will be clocking the runners.
Students interested in entering the combine must visit the USF athletics facebook page. Let the games begin.
-K.K.
April 4, 2009
With the biggest win in USF basketball history, the women’s basketball team defeated Kansas 75-71 at Allen Field 
House today to win the WNIT Championship, capping off a program best 27-win season.
Shantia Grace, who scored 16 points, was named WNIT MVP, USF coach Jose Fernandez walked up and down the bench giving high-fives to his players while pumping his fist and a crowd of 16,113, which is second all-time in tournament history, was eerily silent.
USF athletics also wants to pass along that the Bulls will arrive in Tampa at the airport at 10:40 a.m. Sunday morning and fans are encouraged to greet the team. USF will arrive on Southwest Airlines Flight 2714.
USF finishes 27-10 on the season and graduates seven seniors.
(AP Photo)
-K.K.
April 6, 2009
Shantia Grace’s career ended in silence.
Not the usual solemn atmosphere that many times filled the USF basketball locker room at the end of a season — this was a different sound for the senior guard.
She stood before more than 16,000 quieted Kansas fans who made Allen Field House a raucous environment for nearly 38 minutes of basketball on Saturday.
“I remember, entering those last three minutes, those fans were so loud,” Grace said. “We just stayed focused and afterward it wasn’t loud anymore, but I honestly don’t remember what the sound was really like. We were too busy jumping up and down.”
USF coach Jose Fernandez walked up and down the bench giving high-fives and pumping his fist. Junior Porche Grant did a cartwheel on the court and there was a team dance party as the Bulls celebrated a 75-71 victory to claim the WNIT crown.
Then, Grace and Fernandez exchanged a hug.
“It was such a long, tough road for us, not getting into the NCAA tournament, which was our focus all season,” Grace said. “To win the games on the road in the tournament and come in and beat Kansas with its fans there was special.”
Grace, who is the only senior on the roster to have spent four years at USF, has made quite a journey, too. Long gone is the wide-eyed freshman who stepped in for the injured Tristen Webb nearly four years ago and helped the Bulls make the NCAA tournament, thrusting great expectations on the remainder of her career.
Since that first season, Grace has met those expectations by earning All-Big East honors every year, including first-team All-Big East this season.
“It’s really hard to think about how far I’ve come. It’s hard to put it in perspective,” Grace said. “When Tristen (Webb) went down my freshman year, I had to step in. Since then, I’ve grown as a person. As a player, though, coach Fernandez has been there by my side the whole time. To help win this championship means so much to me.”
The Sarasota native is one of seven seniors on USF’s roster who played their last college basketball game Saturday, and starters Jazmine Sepulveda, Jessica Lawson and Brittany Denson have created a strong bond together, Grace said.
“We’ll never forget how we stuck with each other and how we came together on the court,” she said. “This team is special. We’ve made a great friendship. I’ll remember it the rest of my life.”
Together, they carried the Bulls to a 13-1 nonconference record and a .500 mark in the Big East. They felt the heartbreak of being left out of the NCAA tournament together — and together led USF to its first national postseason championship in school history.
On Saturday, Grace stood on the court after the game, waiting to cut down the nets for the first time in her career and wearing a USF jersey for her last. She sported a straw hat and a smile.
“Yeah, I kept a good piece of that net, too,” she said.
(AP Photo)
-KK
April 6, 2009
University of South Florida men’s soccer coach George Kiefer named former MLS goalkeeper Bryheem Hancock as a volunteer coach Monday.
Hancock, a former captain of the American U-17 National Team, will work primarly with the goalkeepers.
“I am very excited to have Bryheem join our staff at USF,” Kiefer said in a statement. “He has firsthand experience in winning a National Championship and I believe he brings a lot of experience for the program and to our goalkeepers. He is going to be a great addition to our program.”
Hancock helped Connecticut win a National Championship in 2000, and he earned Big East Goalkeeper of the Year in 2001.
He was selected in the 2001 MLS Draft by the LA Galaxy and spent three years playing professionally in the United States.
April 7, 2009
I thought this was really interesting … wanted to pass it along.
The son of basketball legend Michael Jordan has committed to play at UCF, which means with Detroit Pistons legend Joe Dumars’ son coming to USF — the recognizable duo could unite at the Sun Dome next season.
Greg Auman of the St. Pete Times posted it, it’s pretty cool. Take a look here.
-K.K.
April 7, 2009
USF defensive end George Selvie will not play in Saturday’s spring game, according to area reports.
I wasn’t able to make it out to the last part of practice for interview, but both the Times and Tribune have confirmed it with coach Jim Leavitt.
Selvie was fully fit and participating in Wednesday’s practice, and the move is just precautionary, Leavitt said.
-K.K.
April 13, 2009
Everyone knows about what USF coach Jim Leavitt’s done in the coaching field, but how about in the education realm?
Missouri knows.
Leavitt will receive the Citation of Merit for Outstanding Achievment and Meritorious Service from the University of Missouri College of Education on April 18 at the 41st Annual Recognition Awards Banquet.
I’m humbled by this recognition,” Leavitt said in a statement. “I was fortunate to attend and receive an education at Missouri. I can’t say enough about the influence it had on my life. I’m just a football coach who never envisioned being in a position to receive an honor from a prestigious and historic institution like University of Missouri.”
Leavitt received a bachelor’s degree in education in 1978 and his master’s in counseling in 1979 from Missouri.
While attending, Leavitt will visit Mizzou coach Gary Pinkel and watch the Tigers’ spring game.
Rey Honored
USF senior outfielder Chris Rey was named to the Big East honor roll today after an offensive week that included three home runs. Rey was 6-for-13 with a double, triple and 1.385 slugging percentage in four games last week.
April 14, 2009
Rain rain go away, come again another day. Well just don’t come back Wednesday or Thursday, please.
B.J. Daniels scrambles during Saturday's spring game.
USF canceled today’s scheduled football practice because of severe thunderstorm conditions that should continue throughout the afternoon.
The Bulls, coming off an exciting 21-20 finish at Saturday’s spring game, still have two spring practices left, which were originally scheduled for today and Wednesday.
USF has moved practice back to Wednesday and Thursday.
Here’s a snippet from our Monday edition, as our staff selected Saturday’s top performers.
Greg Auman, the St. Pete Times reporter, also selected his top storylines here.
Enjoy the rain!
-K.K.
(Oracle Photo/Mike Wilson)
April 15, 2009
The USF baseball team had its contest with FIU canceled last night after a day of downpour in Tampa, pitting a doubleheader today, which is scheduled to start at 1 p.m. at Red McEwen Field.
Also, both the men’s and women’s Big East Championships are being held this weekend at the USF Varsity Tennis Courts, starting Thursday morning and running through Sunday. The Bulls captured No. 3 seeds in both men’s and women’s. We’ll have a full preview of all of that in tomorrow’s paper, and I’ll post some preview on the blog tonight.
Assistant Sports Editor Kelli Polson featured men’s tennis coach Don Barr today. Here’s the link to that story.
Enjoy the games today.
-K.K.
April 15, 2009
The guards just keep on coming for Stan Heath.
The USF basketball coach received his third guard signing of the 2009 class when prep-school star Mike Burwell Jr. signed his letter of intent Wednesday.
Burwell led South Kent prep school in Connecticut with a team-high 16 points per game last season. He averaged 81 percent from the line and will boost USF’s last-place free-throw shooting in the Big East.
“We’re excited to add Mike to the Bulls basketball family,” Heath said. “We really feel we’ve addressed our need to improve our shooting. Mike has more versatility than just being a shooter.”
Burwell helped South Kent to a 26-7 record — and a top-10 national ranking — by shooting 41 percent from the three-point line. Heath said, however, that Burwell can help in other areas, too.
“He puts the ball on the floor, he has good size, he can rebound, he runs well and he has been a part of winning programs his last three seasons,” Heath said. “He will do whatever he can to help his team be successful.”
Before attending South Kent, Burwell, who’s listed as 6-foot-6 and 210 pounds, attended Cardinal McCarrick High School in New Jersey and was named Associated Press first-team all-state as a senior.
He joins Jordan Dumars and Shaun Noriega in the 2009 class. Guard Anthony Crater, who transferred last semester from Ohio State, will also be eligible to play next season.
“He will fit in very well with our program and we look for him to be a guy who can step on the floor and contribute right away,” Heath said. “We struggled with our depth last season and we certainly felt we needed to improve our shooting skills, but we also have players we can bring in that can continue to allow us to produce on the floor.”
April 18, 2009
USF coach Don Barr had the venue he wanted, playing at home at the USF Varsity Tennis Courts. Now, he’s one win away from the title he wants.
Led by strong doubles play, the No. 3-seed Bulls clinched a spot in the Big East Championship match with a 4-1 quarterfinal victory over No. 2 Notre Dame.
After a season filled with ups and downs in doubles competition, Wael Kilani and Yannick Yoshizawa clinched the doubles point, 8-4, for the Bulls. Jamal Adderly clinched the win with a tiebreaking 6-4 singles victory.
Barr has won five C-USA titles and one Metro Championship, but never a Big East trophy.
The Bulls will play the winner of Lousiville and DePaul tomorrow at the USF Varsity Tennis Courts at 9 a.m.
Additional reporting by Kelli Polson
April 19, 2009
The Bulls win a Big East Championship in men’s tennis
Oracle Photo/Ferdie Garcia
Senior Mahmoud Hamed ran to freshman Mark Oljaca and embraced him, lifting him in the air on the USF Varsity Tennis Courts.
Moments later, the South Florida men’s tennis team raised a “Big East Champion” sign for the first time in program history.
In its third year in the Big East, the No. 3 seed South Florida men’s tennis team won the school’s third Big East postseason championship with a 4-0 victory over No. 5 seed DePaul on Sunday.
“It’s the best feeling,” Hamed said. “I cannot ask anything more from my teammates. It’s the best thing they can give me. We worked very hard for it … we have closed the season very well.”
For USF coach Don Barr, it was the sixth conference championship in his 18 years at USF. Barr has won four Conference USA titles and one Metro Conference Championship.
“These last two weeks, (the team) knew we lost a little ground losing (the last two matches in the regular season),” Barr said. “We knew that we really had to step it up. They worked extra hard and it paid off. It shows you hard work will pay off for sure.”
Junior Thomas Estrada, sophomore Lucas Jovita and freshman Romain Deridder clinched the title with their singles victories. Jovita, in the Bulls’ No. 1 position, defeated DePaul’s Austin Doerner 6-1 and 6-4.
“It was amazing,” Jovita said. “I worked hard the whole season. I’ve been looking forward to it. I’ve struggled a little bit with injuries, and it was harder for me. I played great tennis this whole week, fighting hard all the time.”
Jovita injured both wrists mid-season, but the No. 90 singles player in the nation finished with a 23-10 regular-season record and reached as high as No. 27 in the nation this season.
Estrada joined the Bulls’ lineup this weekend after missing the last three regular-season matches because of a wrist injury. He won both singles matches this weekend.
“There was pressure on me, but at the same time I was so excited to be in the Big East,” Estrada said. “I was dreaming of this time the whole year since I got here. I (told coaches) I don’t care if my wrist is hurting. I’m going to go there and get the point for our team.”
Oracle Photo/David Downs
Jovita and Estrada — the No. 40 doubles team in the nation — had a 2-1 doubles record this weekend.
DePaul, the No. 5 seed, defeated No. 1 Louisville on Saturday in the semifinals. Last year, the Bulls placed second after a loss to Notre Dame, who the Bulls defeated on Saturday.
“That’s one thing I reminded the kids before we started the match (Sunday),” Barr said. “(I said) ‘remember when they started handing out trophies last year … you want to stand on the sideline, or you want to get something.’ They all came out and put it all on the table.”
The Bulls tied Notre Dame 3-3 when sophomore Jamal Adderley clinched a 4-3 match victory with a 6-4 singles tiebreaking win.
“I played my best tennis at the end,” Adderley said. “That’s when they needed me. It was just great. It’s a great feeling.”
Freshmen Wael Kilani and Yannick Yoshizawa clinched the doubles point with an 8-4 victory. Kilani and Yoshizawa clinched another doubles point with an 8-4 victory in Friday’s defeat of St. John’s.
USF struggled mid-season to find consistent doubles players, especially in the No. 3 position, but Kilani and Yoshizawa earned the spots and have won their last six matches.
“Wael and I are just getting closer every single match,” Yoshizawa said. “We are getting more comfortable with each other and can talk more on the court.”
The Bulls have their sights set on the NCAA tournament now. Barr said they should find out about NCAA qualifications this week.
“I’m anxious to see where they’re gong to send us,” Barr said. “I don’t know if it’s Gainesville or if we’ll go somewhere else.”
USF assistant coach Mike Henderson has coached with Barr for 16 years and got to share the excitement of winning the team’s first Big East title. USF also has Big East Championships in women’s tennis and men’s soccer.
“It feels good,” he said. “It felt good in the Conference USA. It’s been a few years, but you don’t forget the feeling.”
Oracle Photo/Vince Delmonte
-Kelli Polson
April 22, 2009
According to the Tampa Tribune, it’s true.
USF basketball assistant Dan Hipsher hasn’t returned phone calls this morning, but the Tribune reported late last night that he’s heading to Alabama to join Anthony Grant on the Crimson Tide staff.
Hipsher interviewed with Grant last week, according to the Tribune.
Calls to Hipsher were not returned in the report, either.
-KK
April 24, 2009
I’m sitting here at Red McEwen field watching USF and West Virginia battle for the first place spot in the Big East. This is the opener of a three-game series on campus this weekend.
The Mountaineers hold a 11-4 record. USF, which sits atop the standings, are 12-3 in the conference.
Sophomore Ryan Lockwood led off with a double in the bottom of the first for the Bulls, and Jonathan Koscso brought him in with a fielder’s choice grounder.
1-0 USF here in the top of the second.
I’ll be on here keeping you updated on the action all night.
-K.K.
April 24, 2009
We know one thing: this weekend’s series between USF and West Virginia is big in terms of the conference shakeout.
There is a similarly big series in the conference this weekend, too. Louisville and Notre Dame are squaring off in a three-game series. Keep an eye on that because if the Mountaineers can take two of three, and the Cardinals sweep ND, it would put U of L in first place.
Also interesting, USF still has its series with Notre Dame and Louisville yet to come.
WVU has a runner on first in the top of the third with one out. If anything happens, you can be sure I’ll post it.
SIDE NOTE: There is a guest in appearance here tonight. Don Zimmer is sitting in the third base bleachers. Interesting!
-K.K.
April 24, 2009
That WVU situation I was talking about fizzled. USF took advantage of its, though.
Stephen Hunt singled in a run, and the Todd Brazeal went deep to left-center field, giving the Bulls a 4-0 lead in the bottom of the third here at Red McEwen field.
Hunt reached and then moved to second on a passed ball. And Brazeal made WVU pay with a big swing. My guess? Probably a good 390-400 feet.
-K.K.
April 24, 2009
USF starter Randy Fontanez put himself in a tough situation in the fourth when he put two runners on with no one out. He escaped, though.
In the fifth things were different.
Fontanez walked Jedd Gyorko to load the bases with two outs remaining in the top of the fifth, and Vince Belnome made things interesting with a three-run gapper into left-center field, slicing USF’s lead to 5-3 entering the bottom half of the fifth.
USF currently Koscso on first after an infield single. Zero outs.
-K.K.
April 24, 2009
I haven’t seen a police report on this issue, but area reports say USF tight end Trent Pupello was arrested Friday and charged with four felony counts of aggravated assault and aggravated battery. 
Here are the full stories on those from the Times and Tribune.
Pupello has been away from the team because of injury and academic issues. It prompted coach Jim Leavitt to make a statement.
“We have not been involved with Trent Pupello since the beginning of the semester,” he said via email. “He was not going to play for us in 2009 because of an injury and academic issues. I am just learning of the situation. However, if the charges were true, we would never allow anyone that is involved in behavior of that nature to be part of the USF football program.”
April 24, 2009
A bit of controversy here at Red McEwen Field as Trey Manz looked to have given the Bulls a 6-3 lead in the bottom of the sixth inning with a solo home run to center field.
However, the ball hit the tarp behind the centerfield wall. It was clearly a home run, but the umpired decided it did not go over the fence.
Lelo Prado was not happy. He was ejected shortly after. Well, he’s still on the field going nuts right now. To be fair, it’s for good reason.
It was initially signaled a home run by the umpires, so Manz jogged around the bases. Yet, the centerfielder tossed the ball in after it came back into play, relayed to the catcher and Manz was tagged out.
Still 5-3. Prado tossed. Big East baseball at its finest.
-K.K.
April 24, 2009
Randy Fontanez just recorded his sixth strikeout of the game, and the Bulls lead 7-3 heading to the bottom of the eighth inning.
With USF’s bullpen consistently giving up late leads this season it will be interesting to see if Fontanez will go the distance.
Bet on that not happening, as two Bulls are in the pen warming up right now. USF is three outs away from perhaps its biggest win of the season.
-K.K.
April 24, 2009
Randy Fontanez pitched a complete game, and USF walked off with an 8-3 victory tonight at Red McEwen Field.
The Bulls play WVU Saturday night at 7 p.m. Join us on here Sunday for more blog updates from the series finale at 1 p.m.
-K.K.
April 26, 2009
USF kept itself in prime position to win the Big East regular season title Sunday, completing a three-game sweep of West Virginia — a team that was second in the standings entering this weekend — with a 9-6 victory at Red McEwen field Sunday afternoon.
The win gives USF 15 conference wins this season — the most in the baseball program’s history. USF is 9-0 at home in conference play.
“We’ve got one more weekend (at home) and I hope that record stays intact,” said coach Lelo Prado. “We’ve got two big midweek games, we’ve got to take care of business, and if our guys stay focused, we’re a fun to watch and a fun team to coach.”
The Bulls took a 3-1 lead in the bottom of the third inning with a pair of RBI base-hits from Chris Rey and Junior Carlin.
And Carlin wasn’t finished.
He led off the fifth with a triple and scored after Sam Mende laced one into left field, sparking a three-run inning to extend USF’s lead to 5-2.
Shawn Sanford, who started on the mound for USF, pitched six innings, gaining the win while giving up seven hits and five runs, three of which came in the top of the sixth, to cut it at 6-5.
However, USF would have another three-run effort in the bottom of the seventh and Kevin Quackenbush provided three innings of relief to seal the victory, giving the Bulls sole possession of first place in the Big East.
“Our pitching was great,” Prado said. “When you can shut down a team like (West Virginia), you’ve got to tip your hat to the guys that started and the guys that came in did a great job.”
USF defeated West Virginia 8-3 on Friday and 11-2 Saturday.
The Bulls (15-3 in the conference) still have to play three of the five teams trailing them in the standings: Louisville, Notre Dame and Cincinnati.
-K.K.
April 27, 2009
Greetings folks,
Happy finals week to you all. As the semester ends, we’ll be taking a short blog break until May 11. At that point, we’ll continue our sports coverage throughout the summer.
Study hard!
-K.K.
May 7, 2009
Down to its last out, the USF softball team broke a 1-0 tie in the seventh inning en route to a 5-4 win over Syracuse at the Big East Tournament in Louisville Thursday.
Trailing 1-0 in the top of the seventh, the fifth-seeded Bulls (34-21) forced extra innings with a two out, two-strike RBI single by junior catcher Cat Olnick. In the top of ninth, the Bulls took the lead with an RBI single from junior first basemen JoJo Medina. Then, junior third basemen Alison Savarese hit a three-run triple to give USF a 5-1 advantage.
The Orange (30-21) didn’t go down quietly, scoring three runs in the 9th off freshmen Brittany Bowles to cut the lead to 5-4. With the tying run on third base, USF coach Ken Eriksen brought in senior Cristi Ecks — who had started the game — to record the final out.
The Bulls will face the winner of DePaul and Seton Hall in tomorrow’s semifinal at 2:30PM.
-Will McLaughlin
May 7, 2009
DePaul's Becca Heteniak (PHOTO/Big East)
Shortly after USF and Syracuse battled into an extra-inning thriller, DePaul kept things simple with strong pitching en route to a 1-0 victory over Seton Hall in the Big East quarterfinals Thursday.
The No. 1-seed Blue Demons got a complete-game shutout from junior Becca Heteniak, and junior Shea Warren singled in the game’s only run.
After defeating the Orange 5-4 in nine innings, the Bulls will face DePaul in the semifinals tomorrow at noon.
Check back here tomorrow for more coverage.
-K.K.
May 8, 2009
After Thursday’s comeback win against Syracuse, the USF softball team was unable to keep the momentum going, falling 4-0 in the semifinals to No. 19 DePaul at the Big East Tournament in Louisville.
DePaul’s Becca Heteniak, who was named the Big East Pitcher of the Year, provided her own run support by hitting a two-run home run off the top of the Louisville scoreboard in left field to give the Blue Demons a 2-0 lead in the first inning.
Heteniak then shut down the Bulls’ bats, pitching a complete game while giving up only one hit, providing one walk and striking out nine.
“I think you have to give Heteniak a lot of credit,” said USF coach Ken Eriksen afterward. “I think we played well today, but we just happened to run into a really good pitcher.”
The Bulls got their best scoring opportunity in the bottom of the fifth. Junior JoJo Medina walked and junior first basemen Ashley Bullion singled to put two runners on base with only one out. However, Heteniak struck out freshman Laura Fountain and got junior third basemen Alison Savarse to fly out to left to end the threat.
The top-seeded Blue Demons (37-11) added two runs in the top of the seventh inning to seal the victory.
USF (34-22) stayed in the game with a solid pitching performance from freshmen Candace Howell. After the home run, she settled down to pitch 5 1/3 innings, giving up only three hits, one walk and six strikeouts.
The Bulls now wait until Sunday night to see if they’ll earn a spot in the NCAA Tournament. The selection show is at 10 p.m. on ESPNU.
- Will McLaughlin
~~~~ USF’s men’s tennis team, which won the Big East tournament, ended its season today with a 4-0 loss to Auburn in the NCAA tournament in Tallahassee Friday.
May 9, 2009
Fighting rain and windy conditions early in South Bend on Saturday, USF gave Notre Dame a small ball shower, scoring six runs in the first five innings, but faltered late by blowing a six run lead in a 7-6 loss, giving the Irish a crucial Big East series triumph.
The Bulls jumped out to a 6-0 lead by the fifth, but the Irish battled back on USF starter Derrick Stultz and the Bulls’ bullpen.
Leading 6-5 entering the ninth, Stultz pegged the first batter, and then threw a wild pitch to advance the tying run to second. Stultz walked Evan Sharpley to put the winning run at first, forcing coach Lelo Prado to go with reliever Joe Cole to save the game.
He couldn’t.
Cole, who entered with a 4.52 ERA, gave up a game-tying single to A.J Pollock, intentionally walked Golden Tate and then walked Jeremy Barnes on four straight pitches with the bases loaded to end the game.
The Bulls (31-18, 18-5) took an early advantage on Stephen Hunt’s run-scoring ground out, and Jonathan Koscso came in to make it 2-0 on Todd Brazeal’s single to centerfield in the first inning. USF poured a third run on the Irish with another fielder’s choice in the top of the second.
The Bulls’ small-ball approach came into play again. Trey Manz singled in Junior Carlin in the third, and Koscso put down a beautiful two-out bunt to score Sam Mende — and beat the throw — in the fourth.
The Bulls finished with 13 hits.
Stultz put things in cruise control for the first four innings, shutting down the Irish bats. However, he found himself in trouble during the fifth — loading the bases with one out — and the Irish got a pair of two-run singles to cut the lead down to 6-4.
Stultz continued into the eighth. However, on the first pitch of the inning Jeremy Barnes blasted a home run into the right field hedge grass to cut it at 6-5. USF’s sophomore was tagged with all seven runs, while giving up six hits. He struck out five and walked three.
USF dropped Friday’s game 8-5, putting Notre Dame in sole possession of fifth place in the Big East. Sunday’s fixture has been moved up to 12:05 p.m. because of travel obligations.
-K.K.
May 10, 2009
A former swimming team and four individuals were inducted into the annual University of South Florida Hall of Fame class at Saturday’s fund-raising auction.
Former men’s basketball star Charlie Bradley, women’s basketball player Wanda Guyton, former Athletics Director Dick Bowers, former Olympian and All-American in rifle Michelle Scarborough, and the members of the 1984-85 national champions USF swimming team were all recognized for their achievments.
“This group represented the University of South Florida with class in all endeavors, while bringing prestige and pride to the USF Athletics department through their success in the athletic realm,” said Hall of Fame Executve Committee Chairman Lee Roy Selmon. “Their accomplishments while competing for the Green and Gold were nothing short of remarkable.”
Bradley:
- USF’s first ever player to have jersey retired.
- USF all-time leading scorer with 2,319 points.
- He scored in double-figures for 84 consecutive games.
Guyton:
- Two-time WNBA champion.
- She owns 10 records still at USF despite playing in the mid 1980s.
Bowers:
- Served as Athletics Director from 1966-1982, helping establish the Sun Belt conference.
Scarborough:
- She was a four time All-American and Academic All-American
- She was a two-time national champion, and an Olympian in the rifle.
The 84-85 swimming team:
Nancy Bercaw, Suzanne Crenshaw, Susan Duncan, Merit Greaves, Tracey Hayes, Dawn Hewitt, Alicia McHugh, Margaret Mortell, Julie Muller, Joni Troupe, assistant coach Lou Manganiello and coach Bill Mann combined to win the school’s first national championship, totaling five individual titles in 1985.
————————————————————————————————————————-
— Another reminder that at 10 p.m. tonight USF softball will find out if its made the NCAA tournament.
-K.K.
May 10, 2009
USF’s baseball team has made a habit of surrendering late leads this season.
On Saturday, the Bulls did it — and suffered a loss — against Notre Dame. Sunday, facing a sweep, USF surrendered a two-run lead in the seventh inning. However, the Bulls turned around their ninth-inning misfortunes and picked up a 6-5 victory over the Irish.
Mike Consolmagno singled to center and freshman Daniel Rockhold singled him in for the game-winning run in the top of the ninth. In the bottom half, Joe Cole, who couldn’t save USF from Notre Dame’s comeback yesterday, came in and shutdown the Irish, striking out two and securing the victory.
The Bulls piled on 16 hits and were led by Todd Brazeal, who went 3-for-5 with one RBI. Junior starter Shawn Sanford went 6 2/3 innings, giving up three runs on seven hits.
USF moves to 18-6 in conference play, still good for sole possession of first place in the Big East. We’ll have a full recap of this weekend’s action in tomorrow’s Oracle.
-K.K.
May 10, 2009
Volleyball coach Claire Lessinger announced Sunday that Winthrop freshman Janice Rivera has signed grant-in-aid documents and will transfer to USF.
Rivera earned All-Big South honors in 2008, averaging 4.65 digs per game. She’s a native of Windermere.
“Janice will immediately help this squad with her ball control skills and defensive consistency,” Lessinger said in a statement. “Individually, she had an extremely successful freshman year at Winthrop. Her statistics and accolades speak for themselves. We are inheriting a feisty competitor that loves the game and can flat out play.”
May 10, 2009
For the second time this year, a USF team has been right on the NCAA tournament bubble and missed out.
Earlier this year, the USF women’s basketball team missed the cut. Sunday night, it was the USF softball team, as the Bulls were left out of the NCAA field of 64, ending their season at 34-22.
After Saturday’s 4-0 loss to DePaul, coach Ken Eriksen said he thought his team was in a better position than coach Jose Fernandez’s was in March. That position was just short in the committee’s eyes.
USF had a 3-13 record against teams with RPI’s of 50 or better, and the Bulls were only able to steal one win in this weekend’s Big East tournament, a late-inning thriller against Syracuse.
A win over No.1 seed DePaul might have been enough to tip the scale. I guess we’ll never know …
-K.K.
May 12, 2009
The Bulls will get the biggest week of the season started tonight, hosting North Florida at Red McEwen Field. However, a majority of the feeling will be overshadowed by this weekend’s crucial series at Louisville.
With one victory, USF can clinch the Big East regular season baseball on Thursday, Friday or Saturday. The Bulls sit at 18-6 in the conference while the Cardinals hold a 16-7 mark, meaning a three-game sweep of USF could catapult Louisville into first place.
Of course, the Bulls will try to turn around recent midweek misfortunes Tuesday night when hosting North Florida. Action begins at 4 p.m. because both teams will wrap up last week’s previous game that was suspended due to bad weather. The second game is scheduled for 7 p.m.
I’ve got some meetings to attend in the afternoon, so I won’t be on until probably the end of the first game, but I’ll be sure to post a recap of the first game and then live blog from the second fixture.
Until then.
-K.K.
May 12, 2009
Once I’d gotten out of meetings and the daily routine, I had planned on catching the end of USF and North Florida’s first leg of tonight’s doubleheader. The rain had other plans.
The first game, which is a carryover from last week, has been delayed because of inclement weather, and first pitch is scheduled for 6:45 p.m. now, far from its initial 4 p.m. start time.
Let’s set the stage quickly. We’ll pick right up where last week’s matchup left off: North Florida leading 7-6 in the top of the sixth and one out on the board. Also, you should remember that UNF will be the home team in the first game.
I’ll post on here once situations come about.
-K.K.
May 12, 2009
After the Bulls loaded the bases in the bottom of the first inning here in the second game of this doubleheader, Todd Brazeal was pegged by UNF’s Paul Morales and Chris Rey hit a run-scoring single to give USF a 2-0 lead at Red McEwen Field.
On the mound for USF is Teddy Kaufman, who shut down the Ospreys in the top of the first. The Bulls look well on track to erase game one’s 11-6 loss.
Of course, that can always change quickly …
-K.K.
May 12, 2009
North Florida got one run in the seventh and two in the eighth to seal an 11-6 victory over USF in the first leg of a doubleheader at Red McEwen Field.
Continuing from last week’s game, the Osprey’s carried a 7-6 advantage into the sixth inning. They added runs on a sacrifice fly in the seventh and a throwing error in the eighth off a single.
Both teams will take about 15 minutes and then meet again immediately to complete the doubleheader. The first pitch is set for 8:20 p.m. Of course, I’ll be keeping you updated on that action.
-K.K.
May 12, 2009
Sam Mende makes it six.
After jumping out to a 3-0 lead in the first inning, the USF shortstop got a hold of a pitch and hit a gapper into left-centerfield, clearing the bases and giving the Bulls 6-0 lead.
The Bulls have four hits in the inning and two outs. If more scoring occurs, I’ll let you know.
-K.K.
May 12, 2009
UNF’s Justin Preckajlo put a hush into tonight’s crowd at Red McEwen Field with a towering home run into the left field trees.
Preckajlo sent Teddy Kaufman’s fastball deep into the night to cut the Osprey’s deficit to 6-1 in the top of the second. For the moment, that’s seemingly the first mistake Kaufman has made, cruising through the first inning. The Bulls will hope that’s the last mistake.
-K.K.
May 12, 2009
It could happen.
Sam Mende just tripled, scoring Mike Consolmagno, to give the Bulls a 7-3 lead over UNF in the bottom of the third inning.
Mende, who homered in the first, now just needs a single and a double to hit for the cycle. It might, maybe, just maybe happen.
The Ospreys got two runs in the top third on a double by Preston Hale.
After the game I’ll post an audio interview with a USF player discussing tonight’s doubleheader and the weekend at Louisville, so stay tuned for that!
-K.K.
May 12, 2009
For awhile in the fourth inning, things looked grim for the Bulls.
North Florida loaded the bases, USF had only one out and Teddy Kaufman looked as if he’d be giving up quite a big inning to the Ospreys.
That didn’t happen, though, as Kaufman settled down, striking out Brian Wilson and getting Michael Smith to ground out to end the UNF scoring threat, preserving USF’s 8-3 lead.
Kaufman has given up six hits and three earned runs, while striking out six.
-K.K.
May 12, 2009
An inning after Teddy Kaufman avoided a bases-loaded disaster, UNF’s Robbie Collier churned out a similar performance in the bottom of the fourth.
Collier loaded the bases — hitting two USF batters — with no outs, but got Mike Consolmagno to line out, Sam Mende to pop up in the infield and then struck out Peter Brotons to keep the Bulls’ advantage at 8-3 heading to the fifth.
USF has roughed up the Osprey pitching staff, getting to five UNF pitchers in this game alone.
-K.K.
May 12, 2009
Stephen Hunt was put in a tough situation: bases loaded, two outs and the task of cooling UNF’s bats in the top of the sixth.
He couldn’t do that clean sheeted, however, and the Osprey’s cut USF’s lead down to 9-6 at Red McEwen Field.
Preston Hale picked up his fifth RBI of the game with a bases-clearing, three-run double. Hunt recovered on the next batter, striking T.J. Thompson to end the inning.
UNF has made it decently interesting, though. Both teams have gone deep into the pitching staffs, throwing eight arms combined.
-K.K.
May 12, 2009
So USF runs a promotion between innings “Are You Smarter than a Fifth Grader?”
If you’re still following the blog at night, I’ll amuse you with tonight’s question. What is the deepest ocean in the world?
It’s the Pacific Ocean!!! Wow, this is what the blog has come to. Crickets … Crickets … Crickets …
Oh, I think I’ll just be on later to post a final recap. It’s 11-6 USF in the top of the seventh.
Keep studying your fifth grade geography.
Don’t forget, I’ll be grabbing a USF player afterward to get his thoughts on tonight’s doubleheader and this weekend’s big series at Louisville. Stay tuned for that!
-K.K.
May 12, 2009
By rule, because of travel reasons, USF can’t start an inning tonight later than 11 p.m. So, with the Bulls leading 11-6, the game has been called final, giving both teams a split of tonight’s doubleheader.
Starter Teddy Kaufman got the win, pitching five innings and giving up three earned runs on six hits.
The Bulls got off to a fast start, scoring six runs in the first inning, and UNF really didn’t provide too much to make things interesting.
The Osprey’s did load the bases and cut the lead to 9-6 in the top of the sixth, but the Bulls responded with two in the bottom half, seemingly cashing in the win.
Of course, the main focus shifts to Louisville on Thursday, Friday and Saturday. We’ll have shortstop Sam Mende’s thoughts on here shortly. I’m heading down to grab him, and I’ll post his audio on here later. Mende finished the second game a single short of the cycle.
He went 3-for-4 and had four RBI. Stay tuned for his thoughts …
-K.K.
May 12, 2009
Sam Mende turned in an impressive second game performance Tuesday night, going 3-for-4 with a home run, triple and double in USF’s 11-6 seven-inning victory over North Florida.
UNF got the best of the Bulls in the first game, and Mende said afterward that the Bulls perhaps had their focus on this weekend’s massive series at Louisville.
Mende shared more thoughts on tonight and this weekend after the game. Here’s the full interview: Sam Mende
-K.K.
May 14, 2009
It’s no secret that USF has had its eye on this Louisville series for quite some time. In fact, Sam Mende said Tuesday night the team was probably focused more on that than North Florida. It’s that big.
Put aside the fact that it’s USF coach Lelo Prado’s former squad and just look at the Big East implications, the Bulls can clinch the Big East title with one victory this weekend.
USF-Louisville square off Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Here’s a full look at it from correspondent Phil Neary.
— The Tampa Tribune reported Wednesday night that former University of Miami quarterback Robert Marve is considering walking on at Tennessee. On Thursday, Marve’s father Eugene confirmed that “it’s definitely a possibility.”
Marve attended one of USF’s spring scrimmages and afterward Eugene said he was thoroughly impressed with the Bulls and coach Jim Leavitt. When asked Thursday if USF was out of the running he said: “No, I wouldn’t say that at all.
Another option, Eugene said, is Purdue. Marve visited Purdue recently and the Boilermakers offered him a scholarship. Eugene said he thought the visit went really well, but that it’s ultimately up to his son.
Eugene said there’s really no time table to when a final decision will be made, but that it will come soon.
-K.K.
May 14, 2009
USF’s hopes of clinching the Big East regular season title — and a No. 1 seed in next week’s Big East tournament in Clearwater — will have to wait one more game as the Bulls (32-21, 18-7) lost 2-1 at Louisville Thursday night in a close pitching battle.
USF starter Derrick Stultz pitched a steady five innings, giving up two earned runs, but Louisville lefty Justin Marks was better, pitching 7 2/3 of scoreless work.
The Bulls gave up runs in the second and fourth inning, but tried to claw back in the ninth. However, they only mounted one run.
There was some good news out there for USF: West Virginia fell 9-1 to Pitt, meaning a Bulls win Friday or Saturday will give them the outright Big East regular season title. Of course, we’ll keep you updated if that occurs.
-K.K.
May 15, 2009
Friday just got even bigger.
USF’s Saturday matchup with Louisville has been moved to today, meaning the Bulls and the Cardinals will play a doubleheader to decide the Big East regular season title, beginning at 3 p.m. today.
Louisville, led by strong pitching, took care of USF 2-1 in Thursday night’s opener.
With West Virginia falling to Pittsburgh 9-1 Thursday, the Bulls need one win to clinch the title outright. For the Cardinals, they’ll need a three-game sweep.
-K.K.
May 15, 2009
The USF baseball team is down to its last shot at clinching the Big East regular season title after falling 4-3 at Louisville in the opener of Friday’s doubleheader.
The win gives the Cardinals the series, but a victory in the series finale, which is scheduled to begin soon, will still give the Bulls the championship.
Shawn Sanford was steady for six innings, holding the Louisville bats scoreless, but gave up two runs in the seventh, forcing coach Lelo Prado to excercise his best option in the bullpen: staff ace Randy Fontanez.
Fontanez came in and steadied the storm, forcing a ground out, a pop fly and striking out Louisville’s Jeff Arnold to end the inning — but gave up a two-run homer to Chris Dominguez in the bottom of the eighth.
The Bulls tried to come back, beginning the ninth with three hits to cut the lead at 4-2 on a pinch-hit double by Brandon Smith. USF added another on a sacrifice fly by Peter Brotons, but sophomore Ryan Lockwood grounded out to end the game with the tying run on first.
The Cardinals were led by a stellar pitching performance from Dean Kiekhefer, who gave up only one earned run in eight innings of work.
The Bulls struck first in the fifth inning when freshman Todd Brazeal sacrifice flied to center, scoring Brotons, who began the inning with a single. Brotons finished with three of USF’s eight hits.
Teddy Kaufman is scheduled to pitch in the final game.
-K.K.
May 15, 2009
USF finally ran out of chances.
With their back against the wall, the Bulls were swept by Louisville after a 12-1 smack down in the series finale Friday night, giving the Cardinals the outright Big East regular season title.
All USF needed was one win out of three in the series to be crowned champions — and claim the top seed in next week’s Big East tournament, which begins Tuesday in Clearwater.
The Bulls will play Tuesday at 8 p.m.
The Cardinals roughed up Teddy Kaufman, who only pitched 1/3 of an inning, giving up four earned runs on four hits. Louisville had 14 hits and got a strong outing from starter Bob Revesz, who pitched seven innings.
For a full recap of this weekend and a full preview of next week, see Monday’s Oracle!
-K.K.
May 19, 2009
It’s likely USF’s Big East tournament opener against Pittsburgh will be pushed back to around 9 p.m., rather than the initial 8 p.m. start time tonight at Bright House Networks Field in Clearwater.
The No. 2 seed Bulls and No. 7 seed Panthers are the last scheduled game of today’s opening round. No matter how late it begins, I’ll be live blogging, so stay tuned for that.
Earlier today, No. 5 Notre Dame upset No. 5 St. John’s 14-5, and top-seeded Louisville comfortably took care of No. 8 Cincinnati 12-2.
West Virginia and UConn are set to begin shortly, so depending on how long that game runs — and also if it decides to rain — the Bulls’ start time could be pushed back even further. Of course, we’ll come back on and post as that develops.
Bulls honored
USF coach Lelo Prado was given a slight consolation after the Bulls’ disappointing loss last weekend at Louisville: He was named Big East Coach of the Year.
Needing only one win to clinch the Big East regular season title, the Bulls were swept by the Cardinals, finishing in second place.
The award is voted on by the league’s coaches. USF right-handed starter Randy Fontanez also received honors as first-team All-Big East. Fontanez leads the team with five complete games and is slated to start in tonight’s opener. He did not start in the Louisville series.
Catcher Trey Manz made second-team and pitcher Derrick Stultz, first baseman Todd Brazeal and outfielder Junior Carlin were named third-team.
Be back soon.
-K.K.
May 19, 2009
The rain is steadily coming down here at Bright House Networks Field in Clearwater, but that hasn’t stopped the Big East Tournament to keeping on track.
UConn and West Virginia are in the latter stages of its first-round matchup, with the game tied at 1-1 in the top of the eighth.
USF and Pitt will play roughly a half hour after this one ends, but the possibility of extra inning is good.
I’ll keep you updated on any delays. If this game ends on time, there’s no reason why first pitch couldn’t begin before 9 p.m.
We’ll see.
-K.K.
May 19, 2009
Sixth-seeded UConn solidified itself a spot in Wednesday night’s winner’s bracket game with a 6-1 first-round victory over No. 3 seed West Virginia at Bright House Networks Field in Clearwater.
The Huskies entered the top of the eighth inning trailing 1-0 but got six runs on seven hits to take the lead.
UConn’s Mike Nemeth opened things up with an RBI double in the eighth, and then the Huskies got five more on RBI singles and two WVU errors.
UConn reliever Dusty Odenbach came in and shutdown the Mountaineers in the ninth inning, striking out two.
The Huskies await the winner of the USF-Pittsburgh matchup, which is scheduled to begin in about 40 minutes. We’ll come back on with an official start time soon.
-K.K.
May 19, 2009
The tarp is out. The rain is falling. We’re waiting on weather, not watching baseball.
With the arrival of a rainstorm in the Clearwater area, USF’s opening round game against Pittsburgh has been delayed until further notice. Officials said the game will not take place until the storm has passed through the area.
Immediately following UConn’s 6-1 victory over West Virginia, the grounds crew rolled out the tarp to cover the infield. Both teams are in the dugout just waiting … and waiting … and waiting … I’m doing the same thing.
The winner of this game faces UConn at 8 p.m. Wednesday. The loser plays at 5 p.m. against West Virginia.
-K.K.
May 19, 2009
USF waited all of Tuesday to play its Big East tournament opener. The Bulls, who were slated to play in Tuesday night’s final first-round game at 8 p.m., will have to wait one more day.
USF’s matchup with No. 7 seed Pittsburgh was postponed Tuesday night due to inclement weather, forcing a reschedule at Bright House Fields in Clearwater at 10 a.m. Wednesday.
At around 8:30 p.m. — just after game three of the tournament between Connecticut and West Virginia finished — winds and rain increased, causing the grounds to immediately roll the tarp on the infield.
The game was initially delayed, then called off after conditions failed to get better.
UConn defeated West Virginia 6-1, sealing a place in Wednesday’s winner’s bracket game at 10 p.m. The winner of USF and Pittsburgh will meet the Huskies. The loser will play at 7 p.m.
USF ace Randy Fontanez is scheduled to start for the Bulls. Fontanez, who was named first-team All-Big East this week, enters with a 3.16 ERA and a team-leading five complete games.
We’ll be on tomorrow morning to continue the live blog.
-K.K.
May 20, 2009
It’s before 8 a.m. but I’m willing to make a gutsy prediction: There will be baseball in about two hours.
It looks as if last night’s heavy rain and wind has since moved north, leaving the Tampa/Clearwater area with rainless skies — for now. (Fingers Crossed)
USF’s first-round opener of the Big East tournament was postponed last night due to inclement weather, and the second-seeded Bulls are slated to face seventh-seeded Pittsburgh at 10 a.m. this morning (Wednesday) at Bright House Networks Field.
Here’s a full preview of that game from Monday’s Oracle.
I’ll post closer to first pitch when the time comes.
-K.K.
May 20, 2009
It isn’t sunny. The lights are on at Bright House Networks Field. Yet, it looks like we’re all clear for baseball.
Storms have moved out through the area overnight and the infield, at least, looks to be in good condition, making it a go for this morning’s 10 a.m. start time between USF and Pittsburgh in the last first-round game of the Big East tournament in Clearwater.
The Bulls and Panthers were initially scheduled to play at 8 p.m. last night.
USF has the field right now, going through infield and outfield warm-ups dressed in the all white jerseys. Being the higher seed, the Bulls are the home team.
The winner of this game was initially scheduled to play UConn, which upset WVU 6-1 Tuesday night, at 8 p.m. tonight. However, that’s been pushed back until tomorrow at 10 a.m.
So, let’s recap: Loser of this game plays tonight at around 8-8:30 p.m. against West Virginia and the winner will face Connecticut at 10 a.m. Thursday.
Be back on once this game begins.
-K.K.
May 20, 2009
It seems as if Randy Fontanez’ long layoff may be affecting him, but it’s still too early to tell.
Fontanez mowed through Pittsburgh’s first two batters but gave up a solo home run to Pitt’s Chris Sedon into left field to give the Panthers an early 1-0 lead.
Still with two outs, Pitt got two singles after the homer but Fontanez settled down, forcing a ground out, to escape the inning without further harm.
USF already in a hole and coming up to bat.
May 20, 2009
Immediately after Pittsburgh took an early 1-0 lead, USF responded.
The Bulls got runners on first and second base with one out in the bottom of the first, and Chris Rey eventually delivered a two-out RBI single into left field to tie it at 1-1 here in the opening round of the Big East tournament in Clearwater.
For Rey, it’s his 37th RBI of the season.
Are we in for high-scoring game?
-K.K.
May 20, 2009
I feel like I’m being redundant, but once again the lead has shifted.
This time, Pitt outfielder John Shultz ripped USF’s Randy Fontanez up the middle for a RBI single — scoring Frank Mercurio — to give the seventh-seeded Panthers a 2-1 lead in this Big East tournament first-round game.
Fontanez has been shaky in his first start in nearly two weeks. He did not start in last weekend’s Big East final series at Louisville as coach Lelo Prado wanted to save him for this game.
-K.K.
May 20, 2009
Even though starter Randy Fontanez isn’t pitching at his best, USF’s bats are certainly picking up any slack.
The Bulls loaded the bases with no outs and scored three runs in the bottom of the third to take a 4-2 lead over Pittsburgh in the Big East tournament opening round.
Junior Carlin and Jonathan Koscso started things off with singles, and Pitt’s Nate Reed walked Todd Brazeal to load the bases with no outs.
Stephen Hunt then sent a grounder up the middle and Pitt second baseman Chris Sendon couldn’t bring it in, giving Hunt a two-run single and the Bulls a 3-2 lead. It was scored as an error. USF wasn’t done, either.
Although Chris Rey followed things up with a double play groundout, he scored Brazeal to make it 4-2 USF as this game moves into the fourth inning.
May 20, 2009
After Randy Fontanez gave up two runs on five hits in the first two innings, the USF starter has shut down Pittsburgh’s lineup in the last three innings, giving up only two hits.
With Fontanez’ effort, the USF bats scrapped together three runs in the bottom of the third to take a 4-2 lead and nothing has changed since.
Fontanez hasn’t walked or struck out anyone. Sophomore outfielder Junior Carlin leads the Bulls at the plate, going 2-for-3 with two runs score so far.
4-2 in the bottom of the fifth and Jonathan Koscso just doubled into left-centerfield with one out…
-K.K.
May 20, 2009
Stephen Hunt and Sam Mende laced RBI singles into the Bright House Field outfield, and USF picked up a third run on Pittsburgh second baseman Chris Sedon’s second error of the game to extend the Bulls’ lead to 7-2 in the last first round game of the Big East tournament.
Hunt has only one scored RBI but assisted in driving in two runs in the bottom of the third. It was ruled an error on Sedon.
If USF starter Randy Fontanez can continue his trend in the last three innings, USF will be well on its way into Thursday morning’s winner’s bracket game against sixth-seeded UConn.
May 20, 2009
USF ace Randy Fontanez recovered from a slow start to deliver a complete-game performance and lead the second-seeded Bulls to a 12-2 opening-round victory over seventh-seeded Pittsburgh in he Big East tournament at Bright House Field in Clearwater.
Fontanez pitched his sixth complete game, moving his record to 7-3 on the year.
With the victory, USF moves into Thursday morning’s winner’s bracket game against sixth-seeded UConn, which won 6-1 yesterday over West Virginia.
Shawn Sanford is expected to start in that game for the Bulls. Of course, I’ll be live blogging from that game.
USF got three runs in the bottom of the third, after Pitt took a 2-1 lead, to go ahead 4-2, and the Bulls never looked back, getting three more in the fifth and two more in the sixth. Both teams shared a run apiece in the first.
May 20, 2009
After USF’s 12-2 victory over Pittsburgh this morning, Cincinnati became the first team to be eliminated from the Big East tournament, falling 12-2 to St. John’s at Bright House Field in Clearwater.
Third baseman Greg Hopkins went 5-for-6 to lead the Red Storm. Here’s the full recap on the Big East Web site.
Speaking of storms, the first winner’s bracket matchup of the tournament, slating fifth-seeded Notre Dame and top-seeded Louisville, is in a rain delay. The game was scheduled to begin at 5 p.m.
If the tournament can’t get that game in, and tonight’s elimination contest between Pitt and West Virginia, USF’s Thursday matchup, which is scheduled for 10 a.m., will be pushed back.
We’ll post something if that’s the case.
-K.K.
May 20, 2009
USF’s Big East tournament second-round game has been rescheduled for 4 p.m. Thursday in Clearwater at Bright House Field.
The Bulls, who defeated Pittsburgh 12-2 Wednesday, were initially scheduled to face UConn at 10 a.m. but were moved back because Wednesday night’s games between Pitt and West Virginia and Louisville and Notre Dame could not be finished. Heavy rains and winds have threatened the tournament all week.
Pitt and West Virginia will now move into the 10 a.m. slot. The winner of USF and UConn will play in Friday’s semifinal, but the loser will have to play again Thursday night at approximately 8 p.m. Although, every game scheduled at 8 p.m. so far has run later or been moved back.
Until now, see you all here at 1 p.m. for the live blog.
-K.K.
May 21, 2009
USF and UConn are ready to take the field for warm-ups here at Bright House Field, but consensus thoughts in the press box are that this game could be delayed and pushed back again.
There is a band of storms to the southeast that are moving toward the Clearwater area, which could put this game on hold.
Officially, this game is set for 3:45 p.m.
Let’s set the stage for this matchup: this is the winner’s bracket game and the winner will ensure a spot in Friday’s semifinal. The loser was scheduled to play tonight at around 8 p.m., but that game has been moved back to tomorrow morning.
The Bulls lost two of three to the Huskies in the regular season. Here is our baseball beat writer Phil Neary’s recap of that series in March.
USF starter Shawn Sanford didn’t start against the Huskies in that March series, but he did come on to give 2 2/3 of impressive scoreless relief, picking up a save in that Sunday victory.
At that point, Sanford’s ERA was 7.23. Since then, he’s dropped that to 4.81.
Once this game beings or if there are any delays, I’ll update you.
-K.K.
May 21, 2009
Following up on our earlier update, the tarp is out at Bright House Field and it looks like the storms that are headed into the area have gotten the best of the Big East tournament … again.
The view of the Gulf of Mexi ERRR Bright House Field. Oracle Photo/David Downs
More delays are coming.
UConn and USF were set for a 3:45 p.m. start time, but it looks like that could be pushed back as much as an hour.
I guess at this time we can update you on this morning’s action.
Top-seeded Louisville solidified itself a spot in the semifinals with a 12-2 shelling of Notre Dame in the morning game and just about an hour ago West Virginia completed a 20-8 thrashing of Pittsburgh to eliminate the Panthers.
If the Bulls lose, they’ll face the Mountaineers tomorrow morning at 10 a.m.
The Bulls opened up the Big East tournament Wednesday with a 12-2 victory over Pitt. Randy Fontanez threw his sixth complete game. Here’s my article from that in today’s Oracle.
So, here’s the remaining schedule for today, tentatively:
No. 2 USF vs. No. 6 UConn : Delayed
No. 4 St. John’s vs. No. 5 Notre Dame: 7 p.m. (not probable at that time) Elimination game
May 21, 2009
The Associated Press reported that former Miami quarterback Robert Marve made his final decision Thursday: he’s heading to Purdue to continue his college football career.
Marve, who showed interest in USF, was torn between Tennessee and Purdue in the final stages of his decision making process.
Marve attended a USF scrimmage during spring practices and chatted with coach Jim Leavitt and offensive coordinator Mike Canales afterward. His father said he was impressed with USF’s coaching staff and facilities.
Marve will be eligible in 2010.
It shouldn’t be too much of a letdown for the Bulls after freshman backups Evan Landi and B.J. Daniels impressed during the spring game. Of course, Matt Grothe will be returning for his senior season as well.
May 21, 2009
The Big East officially announced that today’s USF-UConn game, which was initially scheduled to begin at 4 p.m., will be the final game of the tournament today.
Oracle Photo/David Downs
St. John’s and Notre Dame were supposed to take part in an elimination game tonight, but that is now slated for 10 a.m. The loser of USF-UConn will play West Virginia after that at approximately 1 p.m., while the winner will move into the last semifinal matchup at about 8 p.m.
Top-seeded Louisville clinched a spot in the semifinals with a 12-2 victory over the Irish earlier today. The Cardinals will face the winner of St. John’s and Notre Dame at 5 p.m.
If/When this game gets going, we’ll be on. A Big East official said that this game has an official five hour window to begin, which means we could be waiting as late as 10 p.m. tonight … yikes.
-K.K.
May 21, 2009
After the past few days of covering the Big East tournament, I know far better than to get my hopes up.
The USF baseball team emerges from the dugout after waiting out a three hour rain delay. ORACLE PHOTO/DAVID DOWNS
However, it looks as if USF and UConn could be playing within the hour as the grounds crew has taken the tarp off of the infield at Bright House Field.
The outfield still looks flooded, as several substantial puddles have accumulated in the grass directly behind the infield. That will certainly be a factor in tonight’s matchup.
I’ll be on shortly with an official start time.
May 21, 2009
Just as we thought things were about to get rolling, we’ve received word that USF and UConn’s first pitch could be
The Bulls pass the time during the rain delay. ORACLE PHOTO/DAVID DOWNS
delayed as much as another hour!
Talk about long and drawn.
It probably has to do with the outfield surface, which still has patches of puddles scattered about. OR, IT may have to do with a patch of green and yellow on the weather map that’s heading toward the area.
The Bulls and Huskies are out on the field playing catch, but something tells me they might want to make it off the field in about 30 minutes. Of course, I’m no meteorologist…
-K.K.
May 21, 2009
USF and UConn’s winners’ bracket game scheduled for tonight has been officially postponed because of inclement weather.
The Bulls and Huskies will play tomorrow morning at 10 a.m. The loser of that game will face West Virginia at 4 p.m., with the winner playing in the semifinals, which will likely be on Saturday.
UConn goes for a slip and slide. ORACLE PHOTO/DAVID DOWNS
So, the schedule for tomorrow looks like this:
USF vs. UConn at 10 a.m.
Notre Dame vs. St. John’s at 1 p.m. (Eilimination)
Loser USF/UConn vs. West Virginia at 4 p.m. (Elimination)
Winner St. John’s/ND vs. Louisville at 7 p.m. (Semifinals)
Saturday:
Winner USF/UConn vs. TBA at 1o a.m. (Semifinals)
How about a Rain Dance?
With everything that’s gone on today — including a five hour rain delay — it was fitting that USF and UConn found an alternative way to pass the time: Dance Competition.
USF and UConn shake hands after a dance-off. ORACLE PHOTO/DAVID DOWNS
Amid a rainstorm, both squads got out of their dugouts and, with the assistance of some selective music from the P.A. announcer, took part in a dance-off.
I’m talking “The Soulja Boy,” “Thriller,” “The Macarena” and so much more. The scoreboard even kept score! UConn had a 10-5 lead after freshman David Fischer delivered what’s known by the Connecticut Sports Information Staff as “his signature move.”
However, USF took the final tally, winning 15-12.
Even USF starter Shawn Sanford was out pulling some sort of squatting move?
So, how are the songs being requested? Even the grounds crew is getting in on the action, assisting players with their walkee-talkees to request songs to the booth.
The highlight of the entire thing had to be when both teams got together at home plate and did an Irish river dance together. Remarkable!
Needless to say, that really lightened things up in the press box after five hours of waiting …
We’ll see you back on here tomorrow morning for another live blog.
Bulls go for a slip and slide. ORACLE PHOTO/DAVID DOWNS
-K.K.
May 22, 2009
I’ve counted twice this weekend where I’ve made a prediction that we’re a go for baseball only to have storms come in and ruin it.
So, I’ll say: right now, it looks clear and there are storms that have moved to the west. It looks as if we’re going to be good for this morning’s 10 a.m. matchup between USF and UConn in the Big East tournament second round.
The Huskies defeated West Virginia Tuesday and the Bulls took care of Pittsburgh, which is one of two teams already eliminated (Cincinnati the other).
The Mountaineers will face the loser of this matchup most likely at 4 p.m. today, while the winner will probably get a full day’s rest by not playing until Saturday morning’s semifinal.
Be back on around first pitch.
-K.K.
May 22, 2009
If you haven’t seen this video, you’ve got to take about eight minutes and check it out.
Last night, the Bulls and Huskies, waiting through a six hour rain delay, killed time with a dance-off. It was nothing short of hilarious.
Now, it’s back to baseball. USF and UConn are ready for first pitch, so it’d be a good time to compare the starters.
UConn: Matt McDonald, senior right-hander, 6-foot-2, 215 pounds.
While McDonald’s 4-1 record is impressive, he ranks ninth on the Huskies’ roster in ERA (players with more than eight appearances). He has a 4.53 mark in 10 games, ranking fourth on the roster with 39 strikeouts.
USF: Shawn Sanford, junior right-hander, 6-foot-0, 195 pounds.
Up until USF’s regular season series with UConn, Sanford was serving mostly as a reliever. Now, he’s settled in as the Bulls’ second option in the rotation. No start he’s made will be as big as this one.
When Sanford entered that series against UConn, where USF lost two of three, he had a 7.23 ERA. After pitching 2 2/3 of scoreless innings in a 5-2 victory on March 28 in that Sunday finale, Sanford settled into a consistent starts role. His ERA now sits at 4.81 and his record 5-3 on the season.
We’re ready for baseball. When something happens, I’ll update you!
-K.K.
May 22, 2009
UConn’s Matt McDonald rolled through the Bulls’ first three batters, and USF’s Shawn Sanford retired the Huskies without giving up a run in the first inning here at Bright House Field.
Sanford had the most trouble as UConn leadoff man Pierre LePage laced the first pitch of the ball game into center field. Nick Ahmed then grounded out to short and LePage moved to second safely (Ahmed out at first).
However, Sanford settled down to force another grounder and a line drive to third to escape the inning.
Not going to lie, it feels to finally post something about baseball. Boo Rain!
0-0 after one.
May 22, 2009
Before the game, we previewed both starters and it’s been UConn’s Matt McDonald and USF’s Shawn Sanford who’ve impressed so far.
McDonald hasn’t given up a hit in three innings, and Sanford has just one as it’s tied 0-0 at Bright House Field.
Just a reminder: the Bulls are the away team today, wearing their green jerseys with white pants. The Huskies are in all white.
-K.K.
May 22, 2009
A throwing error by USF catcher Trey Manz has led to a 1-0 UConn lead, as the Bulls come up to bat in the fifth inning at Bright House Field.
After Big East Rookie of the Year George Springer walked to lead off the inning, he tried to steal second and Manz tossed it into center field, allowing Springer to take third.
The next batter, Mike Olt, sent a high fly into left field and Springer scored easily.
With the error, it’s an unearned run and Sanford still officially has only give up one hit. Right now, UConn’s Matt McDonald is carrying a no-hitter.
-K.K.
May 22, 2009
After UConn scraped in one run in the fourth, the Bulls answered with a run of their own, tying the game at 1-1 at Bright House Field in the fifth.
Sam Mende hit a one-out double and Ryan Lockwood singled him in for the sophomore’s 31st RBI of the season.
Lockwood advanced to second and Peter Broton was pegged by UConn starter Matt McDonald to put two on with one out. However, McDonald got Junior Carlin to fly out into left (left fielder Peter Fatse made a great snag) and Jonathan Koscso grounded out to third.
1-1 entering the bottom of the fifth.
-K.K.
May 22, 2009
Mike Nemeth hit his fifth home run of the season over the right-field fence, giving UConn a 2-1 advantage at Bright House Field in the bottom of the sixth.
A win would give the Huskies a spot in the semifinal game.
For USF starter Shawn Sanford, that’s the sixth homer given up this season. He’s only given up three hits today and the first run was unearned (throwing error by catcher Trey Manz).
2-1 entering the seventh….
-K.K.
May 22, 2009
With UConn’s Matt McDonald pitching a three-hit gem, the Bulls’ chance to tie this game is dwindling.
The Huskies hold a 2-1 lead entering the bottom of the seventh at Bright House Field, placing one foot into Saturday’s scheduled semifinal.
If the Bulls lose, they’ll have to play later today in an elimination game against West Virginia.
Shawn Sanford has pitched well, giving up three hits as well, but first baseman Matt Nemeth hit a crucial solo home run last inning to give UConn the lead.
We’ll see what happens in the latter stages ….
-K.K.
May 22, 2009
Peter Brotons grounded out. Junior Carlin walked. Jonathon Koscso grouned out into double play.
That’s how the top of the eighth went for the Bulls, and now UConn is just three outs away from sealing a spot in Saturday’s semifinal.The Huskies lead 2-1.
USF starter Shawn Sanford continues to pitch into the bottom of the eighth, giving up only three hits today. However, it looks as if his effort might go to waste.
If it’s any surprise to you all, IT’S RAINING AGAIN …..
-K.K.
May 22, 2009
The Bulls loaded the bases with two outs in the top of the ninth — and scraped in a run — but UConn escaped with a 4-2 victory in the second round of the Big East tournament at Brigh House Field in Clearwater.
Ryan Lockwood drove in the RBI in the ninth, his second of the game. However, Peter Brotons grounded out to first to end the game.
With the loss, USF is scheduled to play at 4 p.m. in an elimination contest against West Virginia.
It has started raining and lightning, though, so the following games could be delayed.
We’ll come back on with a full recap soon from correspondent Phil Neary.
-K.K.
May 22, 2009
Here is the game story of USF’s loss against UConn, compliments of correspondent Phil Neary.
We’ll be back on later when the Bulls face West Virginia, which is probably going to be around 5:30-6 p.m.
-K.K.
May 22, 2009
One thing is for sure: West Virginia can smack the ball around the park.
The Mountaineers, who entered the Big East tournament with a league leading .361 average, brought in 20 runs Thursday en route to a 20-8 elimination victory over Pittsburgh.
West Virginia rained 17 hits and 19 RBIs to keep its Big East championship hopes alive.
USF and WVU were scheduled to play at 4 p.m. today but that won’t happen. St. John’s is pummeling Notre Dame 10-4 in the fifth inning — but it’s delayed by rain right now.
So, there’s seemingly no way the Bulls’ game will start before 6 p.m.
The Bulls will send sophomore Derrick Stultz to the mound to try and slow down WVU’s bats. Stultz, a graduate of Wharton High School in Tampa, is 5-4 with a 4.16 ERA.
Stultz had success against the Mountaineers on April 25, going eight innings in an 11-2 victory and giving up two earned runs and six hits while striking out five.
However, Stultz hasn’t pitched in a victory since then, losing three consecutive games.
USF lost to UConn earlier today 4-2, giving the Huskies a spot in the semifinals.
The winner of St. John’s and Notre Dame meets top-seeded Louisville in the semifinals and will have to win twice.
Same situation lies with this upcoming game: winner will have to beat No. 6 UConn twice to seal a spot in the finals.
We’ll see if USF can get the game in … Post on here later for a time update.
-K.K.
May 22, 2009
With another storm cell approaching the Clearwater area, St. John’s and Notre Dame, which is in the bottom of the fifth inning, could be delayed an hour longer, meaning it’s impossible that USF’s game will start before 7 p.m. tonight.
The best case scenario, just in terms of getting as many games in, is if someone were to 10-run rule another team, which can’t happen until the seventh inning.
Right now, it’s more like an 8 p.m. first pitch between USF and UConn.
Be back later ………………………………………………………………..
-K.K.
May 22, 2009
The St. John’s and Notre Dame is just picked up where it left off — in the bottom of the fifth inning.
My guess? USF could play around 8:30 p.m. tonight. Of course, if the Red Storm drop five runs in an inning then they can ten-run rul the Irish, meaning this thing could end earlier.
If that happens, we’ll keep you updated. I’ll post something toward the end of this game.
Right now, 10-4 St. John’s in the top of the sixth.
-K.K.
May 22, 2009
Notre Dame just completed an improbable nine-run comeback to seal a spot in the semifinals, winning 11-10 on a walk-off single in the bottom of the ninth in the Big East tournament in Clearwater.
Next on deck is USF and West Virginia.
The Mountaineers, who entered the Big East tournament with a league leading .361 average, brought in 20 runs Thursday en route to a 20-8 elimination victory over Pittsburgh.
West Virginia rained 17 hits and 19 RBIs in that game.
The Bulls will send sophomore Derrick Stultz to the mound to try and slow down WVU’s bats. Stultz, a graduate of Wharton High School in Tampa, is 5-4 with a 4.16 ERA.
Stultz had success against the Mountaineers on April 25, going eight innings in an 11-2 victory and giving up two earned runs and six hits while striking out five.
However, Stultz hasn’t pitched in a victory since then, losing three consecutive games.
USF lost to UConn earlier today 4-2, giving the Huskies a spot in the semifinals.
Winner of this game will have to beat No. 6 UConn twice to seal a spot in the finals.
-K.K.
May 22, 2009
Lineups are set for 8:25 and the first pitch should be at 8:30.
USF. West Virginia. Elimination.
Ah, yes, doesn’t get better than this.
-K.K.
May 22, 2009
USF had a great chance to take a head start in this game, with one guy on and Jonathan Koscso roping a liner down the left field line with no one out.
Koscso, however, was gunned down at second trying to advance, Todd Brazeal lined out to second and Chris Rey struck out, leaving Junior Carlin on third to end the inning.
0-0 heading to the Bottom 1.
-KK
May 22, 2009
West Virginia, coming off a 20-run performance, continued its offensive momentum, snagging an early run off of USF starter Derrick Stultz to give the Mountaineers a 1-0 lead entering the second inning.
Stultz retired two then walked and pegged the next batters. WVU’s Dan Dibartolomeo gave the Mountaineers the lead with a bouncer up the middle that just went past Peter Brotons’ glove at second.
Shaky start for Stultz, who was hit hard on several occasions this inning.
-K.K.
May 22, 2009
With all the rain delays this tournament has seen, the Big East has finally nailed down a tentative (rain pending, of course) schedule for the remainder of tourney.
The semifinals will be Saturday morning at 9 a.m. (Louisville vs. Notre Dame) and 1 p.m. (UConn vs. USF/WVU).
The 1 p.m. semifinal will be televised on ESPNU. Since Louisville and UConn are undefeated, the *if necessary* games will be played on Saturday night.
The championship has been moved to Sunday with the time to be announced. If both Louisville and UConn win the early games Saturday, chances are the championship will be at 10 a.m. If the semifinals run into the night, it’s likely to be at 1 p.m.
-KK
May 22, 2009
Junior Carlin took his fourth ball with the bases loaded, and USF sophomore Ryan Lockwood walked in the tying run for the Bulls, making it 1-1 as this Big East tournament elimination heads to the bottom of the second.
Like USF’s Derrick Stultz, WVU starter Jonathan Jones has had a shaky start.
KK
May 22, 2009
West Virginia’s Austin Markel, coming off a 4-for-5 performance yesterday, added to his hot hitting streak with a bomb shot into left-centerfield off USF starter Derrick Stultz to help give the Mountaineers a 3-1 advantage in the bottom of the third.
WVU added another run on a sacrifice fly.
Stultz has only given up two hits in the ball game — but it certainly was a big one.
USF back to staring elimination in the face.
-KK
May 22, 2009
USF’s Todd Brazeal took WVU starter Jonathan Jones deep on a full-count pitch, good for a three-run shot to give the Bulls a crucial 4-3 lead in the top of the fifth inning.
The next pitch caused controversy.
Jones pegged Chris Rey, which cleared USF’s bench. The whole team was out yelling at Jones, and coach Lelo Prado had to separate the situation before giving the umpires a piece of his mind.
Hey, it could have been an accident!
May 22, 2009
An inning after Todd Brazeal gave the Bulls hope with a three-run blast, West Virginia’s Dan Dibartolomeo snatched the lead right back with a two-run home run to left.
For USF starter Derrick Stultz, it’s still only three hits given up but two of those are homers.
USF has six hits, but I guess the only true staff is matter is runs, eh?
Bulls staring elimination in the face.
-KK
May 22, 2009
Peter Brotons hit a two-run double to give the Bulls a 6-5 lead in the top of the seventh. Right now, West Virginia is having a meeting at the mound to discuss the situation.
The situation? Runners for USF on second and third with one out and the Big East’s batting crown winner, Junior Carlin, up to bat.
Can the Bulls pour more on the pot?
We’ll see.
-KK
May 22, 2009
USF certainly turned the tides on West Virginia, scoring six in the seventh inning on two-run scoring hits by Brandon Smith and Peter Brotons, and RBIs from Junior Carlin and Jonathan Koscso.
Brotons hit a two-run double and Smith hit a two-run triple.
WVU shortstop Jedd Dyorko had two crucial errors, which led to the Bulls’ big inning.
If anything changed, I’ll post on here before the end of the game. Otherwise, looks like USF could be in the semifinals. 10-5 in the bottom of the seventh.
-KK
May 22, 2009
USF has moved into Saturday’s semifinal with a 11-6 victory over West Virginia at the Big East tournament in Clearwater at Bright House Field.
The Bulls used a six-run seventh inning to comeback and keep their NCAA regional hopes alive.
USF plays UConn at 1 p.m. tomorrow.
We’ll have a full story on our Web site soon, which I’ll post on here.
-KK
May 23, 2009
Yet again, another rain delay threatened the Big East tournament. This time, this morning between Notre Dame and Louisville in the semifinals.
The good news is that the game is finally under way (U of L up 2-0 in the third) and the Big East started it an hour early, so USF and UConn’s 1 p.m. first pitch won’t be pushed back too much at all. Perhaps a half hour or so?
The Bulls “stayed alive” last night thanks to an 11-6 victory over West Virginia. Be back on later.
-KK
May 23, 2009
Louisville is mounting a ninth inning rally, down 6-4 in the bottom half to Notre Dame … meanwhile …
Second-seeded USF has announced its starter for today’s semifinal matchup with sixth-seeded UConn: Junior righ-hander Matt Quevedo.
Quevedo, who enters with a 4.47 ERA and a 5-2 record, led the Bulls to a 5-2 victory on March 28 over the Huskies, throwing six innings and giving up only one earned run.
UConn will throw left-hander Greg Nappo, who was the losing pitcher in that Bulls victory on March 28.
So, Quevedo might have the psychological advantage in this matchup. Of course, that all probably means squat now.
Official first pitch to come soon.
-KK
May 23, 2009
After loading the bases with no one out, Notre Dame somehow held on to a 6-5 victory over Louisville, forcing a win-or-go-home scenario later today at the Big East tournament in Clearwater.
Louisville got two runs on RBI base hits with the bases loaded, and then with one out the Irish got a double play to end it.
Without a doubt the best finish of the tournament.
USF and UConn will begin at 1:46 p.m. We’ve got pitching matchups on my last post, scroll down. ESPNU will broadcast this game.
-KK
May 23, 2009
UConn leadoff man Pierre LePage picked the right time to hit his first home run of the season.
LePage took the third pitch of the game off of USF starter Matt Quevedo over the left field fence to give the Huskies a 1-0 lead in the Big East semifinals.
Quevedo settled down to retire three of the next four batters in the inning.
Bulls are in a hole already today …
-KK
May 23, 2009
USF loaded the bases with none out, but only was able to get around one run, tying the Big East semifinal at 1-1 with UConn.
Chris Rey hit a high fly into right field, scoring Junior Carlin on the out. On the same play, Jonathan Koscso was ruled to have left second base early tagging up, giving the Huskies a double play.
On the next at-bat, Sam Mende laced a fastball into left-center field and Todd Brazeal tried to score from first base but was gunned down by UConn left fielder Peter Fatse.
1-1 entering the 2nd.
-KK
May 23, 2009
Mike Olt just hit his seventh home run of the season to give UConn a 3-1 lead in the top of the second.
USF starter Matt Quevedo, who beat the Huskies earlier this season, has been hit three times and has one strike out.
Shaky start, though.
-KK
May 23, 2009
After giving up the fourth run of the game, USF pitching coach Lazer Collazo has taken out starter Matt Quevedo with the Bulls digging themselves a hole.
USF trails 4-1 in the top of the third in the Big East semifinals at Bright House Field. UConn’s Pierre LePage, who led the game off with a home run, led this inning with a single. Matt Nemeth eventually singled him in.
Righty Joe Cole is in the pitch for Quevedo, who went 2 1/3 innings, giving up five hits and four earned runs.
-KK
May 23, 2009
Joe Cole came in and didn’t retire a batter, giving up two runs on two hits.
UConn leading 7-1 in the Big East semis after an RBI double by Peter Fatse and a two-run single by Mike Olt.
The Bulls have gone to an option that I’m sure coach Lelo Prado was hoping he wouldn’t have to use in the first game: Left hander Teddy Kaufman.
Kaufman would have probably started the second game if the USF would win, but that’s obviously in doubt now….
-KK
May 23, 2009
The Huskies have blown this game open, scoring five runs and mowing through three USF pitchers to take a 8-1 commanding lead in the third over USF in the Big East semis.
UConn got RBIs frm Mike Nemeth, Peter Fatse, Mike Olt and Joe Pavone. The Bulls have gone to Teddy Kaufman, who gave up one run, to try and stop the bleeding.
It looks as if USF’s hopes at the NCAA tournament are finally dwindling. Then again, Notre Dame came from behind yesterday and erased a nine-run deficit. The Irish will play Lousiville today in an elimination game, with the winner going to the Big East championship game.
If the Bulls mount a comeback or if this gets worse, I’ll come back and post.
-KK
May 23, 2009
Carlin singles to center field to make it 8-5.
Comeback really on?
-KK
May 23, 2009
Anything you can do, I can do better.
This game is putting that saying to work.
After the Huskies took an 8-1 lead, the Bulls responded with a four-run inning of their own. Now, it’s UConn’s Mike Olt who’s responded, hitting his second home run — and fifth RBI — to give extend the lead to 9-5 in the top of the fifth.
-KK
May 23, 2009
If USF is going to pull together one last rally, it will have to be soon.
The Bulls trail 10-5 entering the eighth inning in the Big East semifinals, down to their final six outs of the season.
Mike Olt is punishing USF’s pitching, going 3-for-3 with two home runs, three RBIs and three runs scored.
We’ll be on here to post the final results. If USF makes anything else happen, we’ll back also.
-K.K.
May 23, 2009
USF is down to its last six outs, as Utility man Stephen Hunt came in the top of the eighth and shut down the UConn bats, which have been the main reason for the Huskies’ 10-7 lead.
The Bulls need three runs here, and they’ll have to do so off of reliever Dennis Accomando, who’s making his first appearance of the tournament.
Fresh pitcher. Down three. USF’s situation is looking grave …
-KK
May 23, 2009
Things are getting awfully interesting here as USF has cut the lead down to 10-8 in the bottom of the eighth.
Junior Carlin grounded to short — with runners on second and third — and Mike Consolmagno came in to score on the fielder’s choice.
The Bulls are down to their last four outs, but there’s a runner on third and No. 2 in the lineup Jonathan Koscso is up to bat …
Can the Bulls stay alive?
-KK
May 23, 2009
USF has been eliminated from the Big East tournament by UConn, falling 10-8 at Bright House Field in Clearwater.
The Bulls clawed back from an 8-1 deficit, but it wasn’t enough.
-KK
May 27, 2009
Center Jessica Lawson has been granted a sixth year of eligibility and will return to the USF women’s basketball team next year, coach Jose Fernandez announced Wednesday.
Jessica Lawson stands at Tampa International Airport with the WNIT championship trophy. ORACLE FILE PHOTO
The Bulls lose six seniors from last year’s team that won the Women’s National Invitational Tournament (WNIT), the first in program history.
Lawson, listed at 6-foot-3, averaged 10.6 points and 6.7 rebounds per game despite battling a lingering knee injury that prevented her from practicing toward the end of the season.
Lawson, a native of Orlando, transferred to USF in 2006 after two years at the University of California where she sat out her sophomore season with a knee injury. She sat out the 2006-07 season with the Bulls because of NCAA transfer rules.
“We are thrilled to get Jessica back for a sixth year,” Fernandez said in a statement. “With the recruiting class that we have coming in for the 2009-10 season, along with the returning players from the WNIT Championship team, getting an experienced and consistent post player like (Lawson) back will help our inside game considerably.”
Fernandez signed a nine player class this offseason, which is ranked No. 35 nationally by the Collegiate Girls Basketball Report.
USF lost 6-foot-3 center Brittany Denson, but returns 6-foot-2 senior Porche Grant in the post.
The Bulls finished the season with a school best 27-10 record last season. Despite an 8-8 record, however, they were left out of the NCAA tournament, earning a first round bye in the WNIT.
USF then defeated Florida Gulf Coast, Mississippi, St. Bonaventure, Boston College and Kansas en route to the WNIT title.
May 27, 2009
After a strong spring season, the USF Rugby Club has one goal in mind entering 2009: gaining promotion to the Division I level.
The team finished with a 12-1 record and won the USA Rugby South Championships by defeating East Carolina 27-24 in March, which helped gain it a spot in the nation’s final 16. USF beat Colorado School of the Mines in the final 16, then lost to Middlebury in the final eight April 19, ending its season.
The team plays in Division II, but coach Gordon Campbell said he’s hoping USF’s strong showing can help move the team up.
“After winning the Division II South Championships, we’d obviously like to be playing Division I,” Campbell said. “Division I (teams) are more outside of the state of Florida. We would play teams like Arkansas State, Tennessee, Clemson, Florida, Georgia, those types of schools.”
Though USF played UCF this spring, beating them twice handily, it also faced schools like Maritime Academy, North Florida, Embry Riddle and Kennesaw State.
Campbell, who’s entering his fifth season as rugby coach at USF, is a native of Sydney, Australia and played the sport for about 17 years back home. He said the team has grown a lot since he’s been at the school.
“USF had a good team, but it had gone into dormancy for a year or two,” he said. “Basically, the whole team restarted in spring of 2005, and I came in as coach in fall of ’05.”
The rugby team participates in three different seasons — fall, spring and summer. Practices and games are held on USF’s recreational fields. The team has about 40 players, and Campbell said anyone interested in joining can attend a practice or get information at the team’s Web site, usfbullsrugby.com.
“All anyone really needs to do is be interested and we’ll teach them how to play the game,” Campbell said.
May 27, 2009
Dominique Jones has made a significant splash in the Big East. This summer, he’ll have a chance to make a bigger splash on a much larger scale.
Dominique Jones was named Honorable Mention All-Big East last season. ORACLE FILE PHOTO
Jones is one of 17 college hoops starts invited to the USA Men’s World University Games Team camp in Colorado Springs June 16-24 with a chance to make the 12-team roster, which will leave June 25 for the World University Games in Serbia.
“This is a great opportunity for Dominique,” said USF coach Stan Heath in a statement. “He deserves this, now it is up to him to make the best of it. His experience the last two years should prepare him for the trials. Not only will he gain experience but grow as a student-athlete during the process.”
Jones was named Honorable Mention All-Big East and joins 15 other confirmed members of the camp, including Clemson’s Trevor Booker, West Virginia’s Da’Sean Butler, Kansas’ Sherron Collins, Villanova’s Corey Fisher, Marquette’s Lazar Hayward and North Carolina’s Deon Thompson.
Wisconsin coach Bo Ryan will coach the team.
May 29, 2009
USF softball coach Ken Eriksen will serve as an assistant coach for the USA softball team in a number of different competitions this summer after being picked by its selection committee from a pool of 14 coaches.
Eriksen, who helped the Bulls to a 34-22 record this season, has plenty of national team coaching experience, assisting during three gold medal wins in the World Championships from 2002-04.
This summer, he’ll coach at the team’s selection and training camp in Chula Vista, Calif. in June, Canada Cup in British Columbia on July 3-12 and the World Cup of Softball in Oklahoma City July 13-20.
Twitter craze continues
USF women’s basketball coach Jose Fernandez is the latest person to join the coaches-on-Twitter fad.
It seems everyone has these now, and USF isn’t shorting out. There is a USF Athletics one, USF football and coach Jim Leavitt has his own person one.
Fernandez ran a couple of tests on his pages and then posted this as his first official Tweet:
“Here in my office, with the number one SID in the country Hurricane Mike Hogan launching my twitter account,” he wrote.
Needless to say, in three more posts he’ll have beaten me. I’ve got a Twitter page but I never keep up with it.
Why do you people have to know what I’m doing all the time! 
-K.K.
June 1, 2009
ESPN.com’s Brian Bennett, who’s based out of Louisville, counted down his top 50 players in the Big East for the 2009 season.
Two Bulls made the top five: seniors Matt Grothe and George Selvie (No. 1).
Today, the Oracle launched its first of a two part series counting down USF’s top 10 football players compliments of columnist Johnathon Mulder.
You can find that here.
Also, here’s another interesting link from Bennett. Remember the great spring that backup QBs Evan Landi and B.J. Daniels had? It’s still only good enough for third in ESPN.com’s rankings of the Big East backups. To be fair, despite all the potential Landi and Daniels show, Bennett’s probably working off actual game experience.
-K.K.
June 1, 2009
With a substantial demand for USF-FSU football tickets, the University of South Florida has been allotted more tickets after selling out the initial amount.
USF received 5,000 initial tickets to sell and after doing so, it has received an additional 2,500 for the Sept. 26 matchup at Doak Campbell Stadium between the Bulls and the Seminoles.
“The Florida State tickets have moved quickly for the last three weeks and the amount of support made it clear we need to procure additional tickets,” said USF Executive Associate Athletics Director Bill McGillis in a statement. “Based on the fact that the number of tickets requested by our fans during the initial selling period far exceeded the number of tickets available at that time, we expect that these additional 2,500 tickets will move very quickly.
“It is clear that Tampa Bay is excited about this matchup and we thank our counterparts at Florida State for their assistance in providing additional tickets for our fan base.”
-K.K.
June 1, 2009
USF junior midfielder Francisco Aristeguieta received the honor of the Arthur Ashe Jr. Sports Award on Monday 
afternoon.
The Venezuela native earned a 4.0 GPA last year while also serving as team captain, leading the Bulls to their first Big East championship in soccer during his sophomore season.
Perhaps the biggest highlight of last year’s season was in the Big East semifinals where he scored two goals.
“Francisco has been a vital part of the USF soccer program,” said USF head coach George Kiefer. “He’s set a standard not only on the field, but off the field with his hard work and dedication to everything he does.”
Defending WNIT champs’ conference schedule set
The USF women’s basketball team received its regular season conference schedule from the league today with the Bulls playing 16 games.
Each team will play seven games at home and away and then one team twice both home and away. USF will face Georgetown twice this season, which went 20-14, 7-9 last season and routed the Bulls 86-68.
While the dates and times will be announced later on, here are the teams USF will face next season in the Big East:
Georgetown (twice),
Home:
DePaul, Pitt, Providence, Rutgers, Syracuse, Villanova and West Virginia.
Away:
Cincinnati, Connecticut, Louisville, Marquette, Notre Dame, St. John’s and Seton Hall.
-K.K.
June 3, 2009
USF men’s basketball coach Stan Heath keeps bulking up in the area the team needs the most.
In April, Heath said the Bulls needed to add depth and talent in the post and Wednesday he added another recruit to that area: Kansas State transfer Ron Anderson.
Anderson, a 6-foot-8, 245-pound junior, signed a Grant-in-Aid to become the third post player in Heath’s 2009 class. The Bulls have five other players incoming next season.
“I was aware of Ron in high school and at that time he was about 290 pounds,” Heath said in a statement. “Today, he weighs 245 thanks to a lot of hard work. He is a skilled player, with a high motor, toughness and a very high basketball IQ. The one year off will allow him to take his game to the next level. He is a hidden gem and I have no doubt he will have a major impact on our program.”
Anderson, who averaged 5.2 points and 5.3 rebounds last season, shot 53.2 percent from the floor in his career. He’ll have to sit out the 2009-10 season because of NCAA transfer rules.
Anderson went to the NCAA tournament with the Wildcats in his freshman season, scoring 10 points in a victory over USC. The dual-threat forward is also the son of former NBA player Ron Anderson Sr.
“I felt comfortable with the coaches and players during my visit,” Anderson said in a statement. “They were very welcoming and made me feel like family from the first minute I stepped on campus. I honestly believe we’re about to make history for our fans, alumni and the entire community of Tampa Bay. USF is on the rise in the Big East and I am privileged and excited to be a part of it.”
Along with Anderson, the Bulls are adding center Jarrid Famous, forward Toarlyn Fitzpatrick and guards Mike Burwell Jr., Jordan Dumars and Shaun Noriega. Guard Anthony Crater will also be eligible to play Dec. 12 after transferring from Ohio State last year.
June 5, 2009
Sam Mende / ORACLE FILE PHOTO
USF freshmen standouts Todd Brazeal and Sam Mende were named freshman All Americans by Collegiate Baseball Wednesday night.
Mende started all 59 games at shortstop for USF (35-24), batting .319 and totaling a team-high 17 doubles.
Brazeal played in 58 games at first base for the Bulls, earning third-team All-Big East honors for a .348 batting average and leading the Bulls with 50 RBI.
The Bulls finished second in the Big East and lost in the Big East tournament semifinals in Clearwater in May. Mende, however, finished the season strong, going 11-for-17 in the tournament with three doubles, a home run and six RBI.
Two other Big East players made the freshman list: Notre Dame pitcher Ryan Richter and UConn outfielder George Springer.
Two Big East players made the Collegiate Baseball first-team All-American squad (any class): Notre Dame second baseman Chris Sedon and Louisville third baseman Chris Dominguez.
Brazeal was tough to get a hold of so far, as he’s playing for the Staunton Braves in the Valley Baseball League this summer. The Braves open the season tonight at 7:30 p.m.
However, I got a chance to catch up with Mende this morning. Here’s what transcribed:
KK: What are your thoughts on being named freshman All-American?
Mende: It’s a great award for myself and it will help me out in the future. I’m still upset about how we ended the season, so that award is great — have to thank my coaches — but I’d rather get the title as Big East champion. I’ll take it I guess.
KK: That probably wasn’t the way you wanted to end your season, losing in the Big East semis wasn’t it?
M: It’s the name on the front that matters. Obviously, the All-America is for me but I’d rather have USF as Big East champions, which would have ended things the right way. Getting this award is nice, but I’d rather have a ring.
KK: What’s freshman year been like for you?
M: Quick. It really flew by. It was great playing every game, traveling with the team, but it was there and over. It went really fast and I don’t think I really caught up to it until the end there, which hurt. I could have helped us in the season. I just have to slow it down next year.
KK: What’d learn the most during your first year?
M: Composure. I lose my cool throughout the season really quick because I expect perfection all the time. If that doesn’t happen, I get upset with myself. Coaches kept trying to calm down, and I didn’t realize it until the end.
KK: How about the Big East tournament?
M: It went really well for me. It gave us experience. We have a lot of guys coming back and we have to know what it takes to win in the season, in midweek — in every game.
KK: How much of an influence have coach Lelo Prado and assistant coach Bryant Ward had on you?
M: A lot — Coach Ward and I go way back and are really close. He’s like a shadow. He’s always there. Coach Prado has actually been really loose this year, and kept things pretty fun, giving me crap for my attitude all the time. He kept me loose, which was good because I would have lost it.
KK: What are you doing this summer?
M: I’m working out. I’m a scrawny kid. I’m tall but I have no size.
KK: I wouldn’t say your scrawny man. I’d say I’m the scrawny one. (I’m 5-foot-11 160 pounds)
M: No, I’m pretty thin. That’s what the coaches are yelling for me to do: get big and lifting heavy weights. That’s where I’m focused.
KK: Can the Big East tournament performance help jump start you for next year?
M: It definitely helped. Through the season, I was pretty upset with my play and it was affecting my attitude. Yeah, ending the season like I did will help but I can’t let it control me. I can’t get a big head. I still have to go out and play.
KK: What was the turning point for you?
M: I don’t know what it was. I tell everything it was a SoBe (energy drink). I’ve got some weird stories about those. I went and got one of those and it cleared me up … it started in high school.
-K.K.
June 9, 2009
Chances are USF fans aren’t going to be glued to their TVs or computers tonight.
The first three rounds of the Major League Baseball draft starts at 6 p.m., but it’s doubtful any Bulls players will be taken.
The draft runs into Wednesday and Thursday, which is a more likely scenario to hear a USF name whether current player or incoming recruit.
Of the current USF squad, here are the names that could go: Mike Consolmagno, Trey Manz, Chris Rey, Brandon Smith, Peter Brotons, Joe Cole, Teddy Kaufman, Matt Quevedo, Andrew Salgueiro, Shawn Sanford, Ryan Garcia, Ryan Lockwood, Matt Stull and Junior Carlin.
Some of those players aren’t in Tampa, participating in summer league baseball. The University athletics Web site has a good page on that.
I talked via telephone to one of those playing in Virginia, Todd Brazeal, who was named Freshman All-American by Collegiate Baseball on Wednesday. Along with him, Sam Mende was honored as well.
Both Mende and Brazeal are inelligible for the draft because of NCAA rules, which state that a player has to complete their junior years (redshirt sophomers are OK) or be 21 years old in order to be taken after entering college.
If anyone goes, I’m sure you’ll see it here!
-KK
June 10, 2009
Senior catcher Trey Manz, junior pitcher Shawn Sanford and incoming recruits Nick Lockwood, Chase Greene and Chad Taylor were selected on the second day of the Major League Baseball draft Wednesday.
Lockwood, brother of current USF centerfielder Ryan Lockwood, was the first Bull selected, taken by the Minnesota Twins in the ninth round with the 282nd pick.
“Nick is like his brother. He’s a great player who can do a lot of things — the things we like to do,” said USF coach Lelo Prado in a statement.
Sanford was taken four rounds later in the 13th round by the San Francisco Giants with the 388th pick. Sanford was used as a starter and a reliever with the Bulls last season.
Taylor, drafted as a shortstop, was taken in the 13th round by the Chicago Cubs. Greene, who signed with USF in December along with Taylor and Lockwood, was drafted by the New York Mets in the 16th round with the 494th pick.
“(Taylor) is another one who can play anywhere on the field,” Prado said in a statement. “(Greene) is one of the fastest guys I’ve ever seen.”
Manz, who was named a second team All Big-East, was taken by the Cincinnati Reds in the 26th round with the 779th overall pick.
“All of these guys are great kids and great ballplayers,” Prado said in a statement. “We’re happy for them and their families. It’s a great day for them.”
Said Prado of the trio of signees that were drafted, “If they come to college they’ll be special players here and guys who can improve their draft status. That’s why we recruited them so hard, because we knew they would be great players.”
-Phil Neary
June 10, 2009
Towson men’s basketball assistant Eric Skeeters has been hired for the same position at USF, coach Stan Heath announced Wednesday night, leaving just one open position on the Bulls’ staff.
Skeeters spent five seasons at Towson and will arrive in Tampa on Friday to begin work. He also coached under former USF coach Seth Greenberg at Virginia Tech during the 2003-04 season.
“Eric and I hit it off well,” Heath said in a statement. “He fit the profile I was looking for in recruiting, skill development and player relations. Eric’s a great fit for USF basketball and I expect him to make an immediate impact on our program.”
While Skeeters was at Virginia Tech, the Hokies had a winning record for the first time in four seasons and he helped recruit standout forward Deron Washington, who was named an All-ACC Rookie.
-K.K.
June 11, 2009
USF centerfielder Ryan Lockwood was selected by the Oakland Athletics with the … you ready … 1,173 pick in the Major League Baseball Draft Thursday afternoon.
Lockwood was collegiate freshman All-American two season ago for the Bulls.
-K.K.
June 14, 2009
— Audrina Bigos
Tampa Bay Buccaneers coach Raheem Morris was the featured guest speaker at the second Lauren’s First and Goal Football Camp on Sunday.
Special to the Oracle
The one-day, non-contact camp supports Lauren’s First and Goal, which is a charitable organization created to raise funds in support for pediatric brain tumor research, support local pediatric cancer services, provide financial assistance to families living with a pediatric cancer diagnosis and to raise public awareness regarding pediatric brain tumors.
Football players — grades 8-12 — had the opportunity to make contact with Division I, II & III college coaches, who volunteered to work the camp and raise funds. Approximately 400 students and 80 coaches took part in the camp.
Morris represented the Buccaneers and talked to the Oracle while at the camp:
Oracle: What does it mean to you to be able to take part in this camp?
Morris: I want to support anything that is this positive and I give a lot of credit to these coaches that are participating for free. Most hold different camps in their areas and get paid for them, but they have come together to support this cause, volunteer their time and help out the way they have today. It’s our job to help out as many people as we can in this world and when I get a chance to do that, it’s always a great feeling…. I’m all in.
O: What’s the importance of professional, college and high school athletes taking time to help others the way many coaches have?
M: That’s so important because it’s all about showing the way for someone else. It’s part of their job as an athlete. Helping others is what has made (professionals) who we are today, and gotten us to this point in our career. People have been there to help me along the way, so it’s our job as athletes to contribute what we can for someone else.
O: Does being here on the USF campus bring back any memories for you?
M: I am so closely related with USF and the coaching staff here. Over the past years, the football players here have had the ability to spend a lot of time with the Bucs. I feel at home here and it’s always exciting to be in this environment with familiar faces.
O: Do you plan on attending games upcoming USF football games at all?
M: I have always been at the Bulls games, even when I was a secondary coach for the Bucs. I want to get out every opportunity I can. They [football team] are well coached. They have some good players, and it’s always fun to watch them play their game at the stadium.
O: So, you are familiar with Jim Leavitt and the coaching staff at USF?
M: Yes, I am and I have always supported them. I know about Leavitt’s background and what he did up at Kansas State. I actually followed after him when I coached there in 2006. I am a big fan of Leavitt and his energy, his mentality — really everything about him.
O: Three former USF players are fighting for a spot on your team. Can you comment on the progress of Jarriett Buie, Amarri Jackson and Mark Dile?
M: When I think about Jerrett Buie, I think about ultimate effort and a guy that is working his butt off to make the team. These guys are fighting to be in this league because they love this game and they are passionate. Amarri Jackson is trying out with us for his second time around and really fighting. We really love the guys that are coming out of USF, Dile included, because of the type of character that they have and the effort they put in to their game.
June 14, 2009
Senior USF defensive end George Selvie received the Collegiate Hall of Fame Award Saturday at the fourth annual Sigma Beta Scholarship Banquet in the Marshall Center.
Selvie got the honor from the southern region of Phi Beta Sigma Inc., and the Crescent Foundation. He was also nominated for the National Emmitt Smith Award, which is presented in New Orleans during July.
“It means a lot to me,” Selvie said. “Not just getting recognized by the football world, but getting recognized by my fraternity.”
Part of Selvie’s recognition was because of his work in community service. Selvie works with football camps and participates in road cleanups on Saturdays in the offseason.
“I like doing it,” Selvie said. “I want to be a teacher when I get done with football, so that’s good for me. It’s a good experience for what I want to do in life.”
Selvie has been a member of the Gamma Eta Sigma fraternity chapter of Phi Beta Sigma for one year. He holds the position of auditor on the executive board where he helps the president, and helps with checks and balances for the treasurer.
Key speakers Saturday were Indianapolis Colts tight ends coach Ricky Thomas and Bay News 9 anchor Erica Riggins, who hosted the banquet.
Thomas addressed the Sigma Beta club, encouraging the young men in the audience to “be prepared for the unexpected” and that “perseverance is necessary.” He also described his 2007 Super Bowl experience to the group and what is was like working with former Indianapolis coach Tony Dungy.
The Sigma Beta club is an auxiliary group for men associated with Phi Beta Sigma, with a focus on cultural, social and athletic extracurricular activities.
The Crescent Foundation is a non-profit organization for young males between the ages of 13 and 18 and provides educational programs and social activities for the group.
— Matthew Wiley
July 3, 2009
Hasani Sinclair, an incoming freshman from Coral Springs, Fla., has been selected to play for the United States National U-18 team. The team will open play in Northern Ireland’s Milk Cup on July 27 against Denmark.
Sinclair was named the Florida Gatorade Player of the Year last year as a high school senior.
Sinclair is the second Bull, joining senior Francisco Aristeguieta, to join his country’s national team this summer. Aristeguieta was invited to train with the Venezuala national team before its match with Mexico on June 24 in Atlanta.
-Phil Neary
July 5, 2009
As the USF football program continues to increase its status on a national level, the salaries of its coaching staff are getting a boost as well.
ORACLE PHOTO/MIKE WILSON
The salary pool for coach Jim Leavitt’s assistant coaches increased to $1.35 million for the 2009-10 fiscal year — a raise of $100,000 from the previous year — according to numbers received from USF Athletics this week. The fiscal year began Wednesday.
The $100,000 yearly increase of the assistant coaches’ salary pool is a built-in stipulation of the seven-year, $12.6-million contract Leavitt signed in March of 2008, said USF Assistant Athletic Director Chris Freet. The stipulation applies to the next four seasons.
Freet said the money comes directly from USF Athletics’ revenue — including a contract with International Sports Properties, a sports media company and Under Armour — rather than other sources, such as state-allocated money.
“It’s not just like the football staff is going out there and giving raises during this economy,” Freet said. “This stuff has been in Leavitt’s contract since he signed it.”
Offensive coordinator Mike Canales, who was promoted from passing game coordinator this spring, received the largest increase and is the highest paid assistant. He will earn $200,000 this year, a raise of $50,000. Defensive coordinator Joe Tresey, who was hired this summer, will earn $190,000.
The salaries of the other returning assistants are increasing as well.
Defensive line coach Kevin Patrick’s salary will go from $70,000 to $120,000. Co-offensive line coaches Larry Scott and Mike Simmonds will both earn $120,000 — a combined raise of $30,000. Running backs coach Carl Franks’ salary will increase from $150,000 to $170,000, and special teams coach John Hendrick will receive a $10,000 raise for a total of $130,000.
The remaining pool money covers the two other assistants Leavitt hired this spring and $60,000 in nominal raises for non-coaching football staff. New co-defensive coordinator and linebackers coach David Blackwell will make $160,000 and new wide receivers coach Phil McGeoghan will earn $80,000.
“From (Leavitt’s) standpoint this is all about being able to build his program and how he can keep good coaches and attract good coaches and that kind of deal,” Freet said.
The Bulls lost both coordinators last season. Former offensive coordinator Greg Gregory left to take on the same role at South Alabama after being relieved of his duties in the spring, and former defensive coordinator Wally Burnham took a defensive coordinator job at Iowa State.
USF has made four consecutive bowl appearances, which ties for the second longest streak among teams in the Big East. West Virginia is first with seven straight bowl games, while Rutgers has made it to four consecutive bowls as well.
-Kerry Klecic
June 30, 2009
Attrition is hitting USF’s 2009 recruiting class. Kamran Joyer, a center from Wesley Chapel High, has been permitted to be released from USF and is expected to sign with another program.
Joyer, who signed with USF back in February, still has uncertainty as far as academics are concerned and had no choice but to ask for his release. Joyer had been previously cleared by the NCAA but USF’s academic adviser for football, Jason Linders, said Joyer wasn’t guaranteed to be accepted to USF for the fall.
USF signed 29 recruits on signing day, but only 23 are expected to be at school this fall.
Phil Neary
July 7, 2009
USF sophomore Gina Pacheo, redshirt freshman Bahar Sansa, and true freshman Taylor Patterson were named to the Canadian U-20 National Team, which will open play against the U.S. U-18 National Team on July 12.
The Canada team will face U.S’s U-20 team on July 14 and July 16. The team recently started camp in Boulder, Colorado.
-Phil Neary
July 7, 2009
The University of South Florida athletics department’s budget totals $32.27 million for the 2009-10 fiscal year, an approximated 8 percent decrease from the previous year. The fiscal year began July 1.
The athletics budget shows a cut in travel costs, external relations (marketing, development and sports information) and the USF Foundation Loan, which dropped from $154,000 to just over $41,000.
The budget shows a slight approximated increase of $200,000 for compensation and fringe benefits, totaling for about $12.3 million.
These are just some of the highlights. You can check out the entire operating budget here.
July 13, 2009
The Oracle will be out of print after July 16 until August 23, which is the beginning of the fall semester.
The Oracle sports blog will be taking a break during that time period. We look forward to seeing you back. Have a great rest of the summer.
— Oracle sports staff
August 6, 2009
The 2009 football season is upon us folks. Later on today, the Bulls hit the fields for the first time since their April 11 Spring Game. Follow us for constant updates on what’s in store for USF this season.
-Phil Neary
August 7, 2009
His team left USF coach Jim Leavitt in a good mood after practice Friday morning. Leavitt described the team’s second day of fall practice as ‘night and day’ compared to the first.
“We did a lot a good things,” he said. “Thursday we weren’t very good. I don’t know if that’s just getting into the rhythm of practice but it all changed.”
Today’s practice was the first time the team wore shoulder pads.
Team speed a plenty: Perhaps what really caught Leavitt’s attention was the overall team speed.
“We probably have as much speed as we’ve had here,” Leavitt said. “We got some guys who can really run well. We need great speed on this team.”
Leavitt said junior linebacker Jacquian Williams may be the fastest linebacker he’s coached at USF.
“I’m looking at guys like Stephen Nicholas and Ben Moffitt. He may be the fastest,” Leavitt said.
Also raising eyebrows is true freshman runningback Lindsey Lamar, who graduated from Hillsborough High School.
Lamar will likely enter the mix at RB this year and forego a redshirt.
“He’s got some of the quickest feet I’ve ever seen,” said senior QB Matt Grothe. “He’s ridiculously fast. He’s got a chance to play this year.”
Depth at runningback and receiver: USF is loaded at the skill positions. Junior Mike Ford is the most talented of the staple of backs, but senior Mo Plancher and junior Jamar Taylor are expected to see significant action. Barring significant injury, USF will also have depth at receiver. Four of USF’s top five receivers return, including senior Jessie Hester, who led the team in receptions a year ago.
And with Lamar’s early camp progress, yet another weapon is at Grothe’s disposal.
“I got them everywhere,” Grothe said. ”I got a boatload of backs and a boatload of receivers and any one of them can make the catch and any one can run with it.”
Competitive secondary: Seniors safety Nate Allen and senior cornerback Jerome Murphy are two prime candidates for starting positions in the secondary this year due to their experience and consistent play throughout their careers. Up-and-comers who also have a shot a seeing the field is sophomore CB Quentin Washington, sophomore safety Jerrell Young, sophomore CB Tyson Butler, freshmen safety Kayvon Webster, and redshirt freshman cornerbacks Jon Lejiste and George Baker.
Each guy has as good a chance to play as the other, said secondary coach Jim Tresey.
Young is one of those players with a unique blend of size (6-2, 205) and speed (4.5 forty) to make an impact soon.
Baker has made significant strides since last year as well.
“George (Baker) is competing for a starting job this year,” Leavitt said. “It’s a totally different Baker from last year.”
-Phil Neary
August 8, 2009
The Bulls are ranked No. 41, receiving 11 votes from the coaches in 2009 preseason coaches’ poll. USF, 8-5 with a bowl win over Memphis a year ago, was ranked No. 21 in last year’s preseason coaches’ poll and climbed as high as No. 10 in the country after their win over Kansas.
In case anyone’s forgot, USF climbed as high as No. 2 in the country in 2007.
“I’ll be real honest, it doesn’t matter to me where we’re ranked in the beginning of the year,” said USF coach Jim Leavitt. “What does matter to me is how we haven’t been able to finish in the top 25 the last couple of years after we’ve been up there.”
-Phil Neary
August 9, 2009
If USF wants any chance of contending for a Big East title this year, the defensive front four must generate more QB sacks and force more turnovers than they did last year, Bulls head coach Jim Leavitt said.
“To be successful, they have to,” he said after Friday’s morning practice. “They must play well. We have to get to the quarterback this year.”
Last year, USF ranked sixth in the conference in quarterback sacks with 23 and also ranked towards the bottom of the league in turnover margin.
The good news is the Bulls have depth at each position.
“George (Selvie) is doing a great job of getting those guys going. It’s very competitive on that front four,” Leavitt said. “We got some third team guys that are really good players.”
Selvie battled injury and only recorded 5.5 sacks last year, a far cry from his school record 14.5 sacks in 2007. Joining Selvie this year as returning starters are tackles Aaron Harris and Terrell McClain.
Touted freshmen Ryne Giddins is expected to be right in the mix as well. Giddins, a DE from Armwood, is quite possibly USF’s most heralded recruit in program history.
-Phil Neary
August 16, 2009
Junior RB Jamar Taylor left the field on a cart during Saturday morning’s practice after injuring his knee during a scrimmage.
The extent of the injury is relatively unknown as of now, but coach Jim Leavitt said it might involve the medial collateral ligament.
Taylor may miss an extended period of time. The team will know more on Monday.
“(Taylor) is a tremendous asset to this football team. I don’t want to think negative thoughts,” Leavitt said during USF media day on Saturday. “We thought going into the season he might be our starting back.”
Taylor rushed for 300 yards and 3 TD’s last year.
-Phil Neary
August 17, 2009
USF junior RB Mike Ford has been suspended by the team for the first two games of the 2009 season due to a violation of team rules, according to USF coach Jim Leavitt.
This news comes just two days after junior RB Jamar Taylor suffered a knee injury during a scrimmage. There is no update on Taylor’s status as of now.
USF opens the season against Wofford on Sept. 5 and travels to Kentucky to take on Western Kentucky on Sept. 12.
Ford ran for 407 yards on 102 carries last year.
-Phil Neary
August 18, 2009
Coach Jim Leavitt said he’s getting closer to determining his team’s two-deep for the upcoming season. He said he’ll know a whole lot more after the team’s scrimmages on Wednesday and Saturday.
“We’ve got a lot done in 15 practices,” he said. “We’re getting closer to our two-deep and who we think we’ll take into the season.”
Leavitt scratched Wednesday morning’s scheduled practice in hopes of resting the team for Wednesday evening’s scrimmage. The team will have another scrimmage on Saturday.
-Phil Neary
August 18, 2009
Bulls junior RB Jamar Taylor will be sidelined for 8-10 weeks after injuring his knee in a scrimmage on Saturday, the school announced Tuesday.
Originally feared to be an injury involving the medial collateral ligament, USF coach Jim Leavitt described it as a knee sprain.
Taylor won’t need surgery.
-Phil Neary
August 22, 2009
USF basketball guard Mike Mercer, who was dismissed from the team in January due to legal issues, was reinstated by USF coach Stan Heath after fulfilling obligations of a pretrial intervention program stemming from his arrest for possession of marijuana in January, the St. Petersburg Times reported Saturday.
“I am extremely grateful for the opportunity Coach Heath has given me to rejoin the team,” Mercer said in a statement. “I apologize again to my teammates, my coaches, and the USF community for my poor decisions last year.”
Mercer, a senior, averaged 8.5 points per game in four games last year.
-Phil Neary
August 28, 2009
Freshman ends Ryne Giddins and Julius Forte, and freshman runningback Bradley Battles have been cleared to play this season by the NCAA, USF coach Jim Leavitt said on Thursday.
It was uncertain whether or not each would be eligible to play this year because of academics.
Giddins, a stud recruit from Armwood, is expected to compete for playing time at end, as is Forte.
Freshman tight end Isaac Virgin was cleared earlier this week.
-Phil Neary
August 28, 2009
True freshman receiver Sterling Griffin has impressed so much in practice that USF coach Jim Leavitt when as far as to say he is “one of the best freshman receivers we’ve had come in here.”
And Griffin hasn’t even played a game at the collegiate level.
“He hasn’t played a game yet. You always want to be careful,” Leavitt said. “You have to do it in games, but so far he’s done really well. It’s hard to come in here and do what he’s done as a freshman.”
Griffin, from Miami Monsignor Pace High School in Opa Locka, was rated the 70th best wide receiver prospect by ESPN coming out of high school. Griffin chose USF over Pittsburgh, Mississippi, Purdue, and Kansas State.
Leavitt said his young receiver’s work ethic has stood out the most.
“It’s his mentality, his focus. He works hard,” Leavitt said. “He’s clearly a starter at receiver.”
-Phil Neary
August 28, 2009
You may as well pencil George Selvie in as a starter at one end position. However, the end spot opposite Selvie remains an open competition, one that might just come down to the last day of practice.
“It’s really close,” said USF coach Jim Leavitt. “(David) Bedford is having a good camp. (Craig) Marshall has done some good things. You got (Patrick) Hampton…It’s hard.”
David Bedford, Craig Marshall, Ryne Giddins, Julius Forte, Patrick Hampton, and Aaron Harris have all played well in practice, Leavitt said.
Harris started 12 games last year as a junior, but Leavitt said he is “not necessarily” a starter because of experience.
Leavitt said Harris, Selvie, and Craig Marshall can rotate to tackle if need be.
-Phil Neary
September 1, 2009
If USF’s first game is a sign of things to come, then the Bulls should be in for an exciting season.
In a game that had two red cards, USF (0-1) took down in-state rival UCF with a 2-1 victory Tuesday night at the USF Soccer Stadium.
“It goes without saying how important it is to begin the season on a strong note,” said USF forward Zak Boggs. “Beating UCF is a good stepping stone for us, but we still have a lot of work to do.”
The Bulls got off to a slow start, as their first shot on goal came 24 minutes into the
first half.
However, USF’s first shot of the season was a goal for junior midfielder Fernando Gonzalez, who scored off a corner kick from Javed Mohammed.
South Florida found the back of the net again just six and half minutes later, when Boggs scored off an assist by freshman Hasani Sinclair.
“It’s always nice to get a goal,” Boggs said. “I’m always happy to contribute to a
solid win.”
Taking a 2-0 lead into halftime, the Bulls controlled most of the second half, keeping the ball in UCF territory. Playing shorthanded after UCF’s Finlay Milne was given a red card, the Knights cut into USF’s lead with a goal from Jeff Simmons in the 76th minute.
In a tense final 14 minutes – in which another UCF player was red carded – the Bulls staved off any kind of late rally from the Knights and hung on for the 2-1 win.
“It’s very important to have a strong start to the season,” said USF coach George Kiefer. “I was happy with the way we played.”
Kiefer was thrilled to get the victory in the opener but was surprised at the style of
UCF’s play.
“I was satisfied that our players didn’t respond poorly to what UCF pulled out there tonight,” he said. “Any time you see two guys on their team get thrown out (of the game) and none of our players get tossed, it shows that we kept our composure and played the right way. (UCF) wasn’t really playing soccer at the end of the game, but it was a good test for us because we will be seeing a lot of teams
like that.”
The Bulls travel to Ft. Myers on Saturday to take on Florida Gulf Coast University.
-Joel Leventhal
September 2, 2009
USF will host Winthrop Friday at 7 p.m. and FAU Saturday at 7 p.m in the Best Western Invitational.
USF (3-0-0) won the Hurricane Invitational last weekend, beating Prairie View A & M, Florida Gulf Coast, and Miami.
Marcia Gurgel, who was named Big East Preseason Player of the Year, earned MVP honors after her 40 kill effort last weekend. Jarka Havlickova and Alli Arbogast were also named to all-tournament team.
USF has never faced Winthrop. USF leads the all-time series with FAU 12-2, but have dropped the past two meetings with the Owls.
The Bulls will try to match the 4-0 start they got off to last year. Last weekend, Gurgel talked about the importance of getting quality wins early in the season, not just from an RPI standpoint.
“It helps in the long run,” she said. “Now we know we can win every game we play. It gives us tremendous confidence”
-Phil Neary
September 3, 2009
USF lost 22 seniors last year, leaving the door open for new faces to emerge. Some freshmen have stood out in fall camp and with two days left until kickoff, these new faces seem to be poised to make an early impact.
-Lindsey Lamar, running back
A three-star recruit out of Hillsborough High, Lamar has been arguably USF’s most consistent freshmen at any position. Lamar gives USF more of a speed back with the ability to create mismatches in space. Senior quarterback Matt Grothe described Lamar as “having the quickest feet I’ve seen in my life” during camp. With junior running back Mike Ford sidelined because of a two-game suspension and Jamar Taylor injured, Lamar should get quality early season touches.
-Sam Barrington, linebacker
Barrington has been steady through camp and with the departures of Bruce Mompremier and Tyrone McKenzie, USF could rely on Barrington alot this year as a true freshman. At 6′3”, 220 lbs, Barrington has ideal size for a linebacker and has a long wingspan. He also has ideal speed. Listed as the No. 2 weakside linebacker on USF’s depth chart, Barrington should see the field a great deal this season.
-Sterling Griffin, wide receiver
Griffin came on late in fall camp. With experienced players like A.J. Love and Jessie Hester still working their way back from injury, Griffin took advantage of an opportunity to grab a starting job. He’s listed as the No. 1 slot receiver on the depth chart. “He’s clearly a starter,” said USF coach Jim Leavitt last week. Griffin has decent intangibles (6′1″, 180) but it was his work ethic that has stood out the most, Leavitt said.
-B.J. Daniels, quarterback
A redshirt freshman, Daniels “is too good” not to see the field this year, according to Leavitt. It’s hard to speculate on where Daniels might line up with Matt Grothe the obvious starter at quarterback. Will USF actually line up two quarterbacks on the field at the same time? “I don’t know how, where, or what…he’s going to play,” Leavitt said. “He’s too good.”
-Kayvon Webster, cornerback
The true freshman has locked up a starting job in the USF secondary. USF will use the nickel package alot this year, and Webster is capable of sliding over if need be. Webster had ideal size, strength, and speed (4.4 forty) and versality to make an immediate impact in a collegiate secondary. He also went to the same high school as Sterling Griffin.
-Phil Neary
September 5, 2009
USF swept Winthrop, 25-14,25-14, 25-21, in the first match of the Best Western Invitational tournament Friday night to move to 4-0 on the season. It was also USF’s home opener.
Marcela Gurgel led the team with 10 kills, while Allie Boaz, Pamela Luiz and Alli Arbogast each had seven. Junior setter Mariana Thon had 21 assists, and sophomore Janice Rivera had a match-high 10 digs.
USF hosts FAU at 7 tonight.
-Phil Neary
September 5, 2009
Bulls senior goalkeeper Mallori Lofton-Malachi had a career-high 13 saves and USF tied FAU, 0-0, in the first match of the Dafedecker Classic.
Lofton-Malachi recorded her 16th career shut out and moved into second place on the USF all-time saves list.
USF (1-1-1) will look for their first victory against an SEC opponent when it hosts LSU on Sunday at noon. USF has never faced LSU.
-Phil Neary
September 5, 2009
Here we are folks. The season is upon us. Kickoff between USF and Wofford is at approximately 7 p.m. Stay tuned as we blog throughout the game with constant updates…
September 5, 2009
It started pouring around 6:30 and the rain is still coming down as gametime approaches. Kickoff is supposed to be at 7 p.m. and it looks like that may be pushed a little bit.
-Phil Neary
September 5, 2009
to just before 7:30.. we just got word here in the box.
-PN
September 5, 2009
It appears freshman defensive end Julius Forte isn’t in uniform and won’t be playing tonight. Ryne Giddins, another freshmen end, is suited up and appears ready to go. Could this be a possible redshirt season for Forte, a guy who USF coach Jim Leavitt has mentioned (positively) in practice quite a bit?
It’s too early to tell, maybe it’s just a minor injury.
Forte is currently listed as third-team on USF’s depth chart
-PN
September 5, 2009
Gametime temperature is 78 degrees and there’s a 40 % chance of rain for the remainder of the night, according our lovely friends at the National Weather Service.
And the 2009 USF season is underway. It’s about time.
Stay tuned for further updates.
-PN
September 5, 2009
On their first drive of the game, USF marched down the field with ease and Mo Plancher capped off a 12 play scoring drive with a four yard touchdown run. Carlton Williams had three receptions on the drive.
-PN
September 5, 2009
USF coach Jim Leavitt said this was going to be a tough test. Wofford appears to be having no problem moving the ball against USF’s defense. The Terriers just tied the game on a 13 play, 69 yard scoring drive, capped off by a two-yard td run.
-PN
September 5, 2009
Wofford coach Mike Ayers just went for it on fourth and a little bit more than a yard on his own 31 yard line. It paid off, but USF’s defense eventually held up and the Bulls retained possession.
Still 7-7 with about 10 minutes to go in the second quarter.
-PN
September 5, 2009
USF running back Ashton Samuels fumbled on his first carry of his season and Wofford recovered at USF’s 48 yard line.
Wofford is driving deep into USF territory again. Don’t hold your breath folks..this game may come down to the wire.
-PN
September 5, 2009
The Bulls’ defense held, and the Wofford kicker missed a 38 yard field goal. The score remains 7-7 with about 7 minutes to go in the sec0nd quarter.
-PN
September 5, 2009
After scampering for a 40 yd rush and putting USF inside Wofford’s 5 yard line, USF senior quarterback Matt Grothe was intercepted by Wofford in the endzone just two minutes before halftime.
The score remains 7-7.
-PN
September 5, 2009
After a botched snap on a Wofford attempted punt, USF took over at the Wofford five yard line. There’s plenty of time for USF to run a full series.
-PN
September 5, 2009
Grothe connected for a six yard td pass to receiver Theo Wilson right before the half to make it 14-7.
-PN
September 5, 2009
On Wofford’s next drive after the USF touchdown, there was another high snap on a punt attempt. After the ball was snapped over the Wofford punter’s head, he ran to it and kicked it through the endzone and out of bounds, resulting in a USF safety. USF leads 16-7 at the half.
-PN
September 5, 2009
Wofford receives.
-PN
September 5, 2009
After stuffing Wofford on its first possession of the second half, USF starts its drive inside the Wofford forty yard line. George Selvie and Chris Robinson each had sacks on the Wofford offensive series.
-PN
September 5, 2009
USF senior running back Mo Plancher scored on a 9 yd touchdown run to put USF ahead by 16 with 10 minutes to go in the third quarter. It was Plancher’s second rushing touchdown of the game.
-PN
September 5, 2009
On Wofford’s next drive, USF recovered a fumble on about the forty yard line of Wofford.
Redshirt freshman quarterback B.J. Daniels has entered the game in place of Grothe and has led USF inside Wofford’s 15 yard line.
-PN
September 5, 2009
USF senior kicker Delbert Alverado converted on about a 30 yard field goal to put the Bulls up 19 with about 6 minutes to go in the third.
-PN
September 5, 2009
Wofford’s QB broke lose for about a 60 yard run but USF cornerback Jerome Murphy forced a fumble at the end of the run. Cornerback Tyson Butler recovered the fumble in bounds and USF retained possession on their own five yard line. It was Butler’s first career fumble recovery.
-PN
September 5, 2009
USF freshman running back Lindsey Lamar capped off 8 play, 55 yard scoring drive with a 13 yard touchdown run to put USF up by 26 with 8 minutes to go in the fourth quarter.
-PN
September 5, 2009
USF sophomore receiver Jeffrey Wilson joined the party, as he recorded his first career touchdown reception on a 22 yard catch from Daniels with 5 minutes to go in the game.
-PN
September 6, 2009
USF won Saturday night 1-0 at Florida Gulf Coast behind an 87th minute goal by Javed Mohammed as the Bulls move to 2-0 on the year.
USF hosts Valparaiso Tuesday at 7 :30.
-PN
September 6, 2009
USF defeated FAU 25-16, 25-12, 25-20 on Saturday night to win its second consecutive tournament and move to 5-0 on the season.
In the first game of the Best Western Invitational on Friday, the Bulls swept Winthrop in three sets. USF did not drop a set this weekend.
The team hosts Florida in the first game of the Tampa Twice tournament, which starts on Friday.
-PN
September 6, 2009
USF lost 2-1 to LSU Sunday afternoon in its second and final match of the Dafedecker classic tournament.
Noelle Pineiro scored for USF on a penalty kick. Pineiro has scored all three USF goals this season.
The Bulls are now 1-2-1 on the season and host Austin Peay on Friday.
-PN
September 7, 2009
USF waited and waited to play Friday night. When the match finally came, there was still little action.
USF (1-2-1) and FIU (1-2-2), scheduled to play at 7:30 p.m. Friday, was pushed back to 9:45 p.m. because of inclement weather and a double-overtime match from LSU and UCF beforehand.
The Bulls and Panthers played a back-and-forth match where both teams had several chances at goal, but it eventually ended in a scoreless tie.
“FIU’s a good team and we battled it out,” said senior goalkeeper Mallori Lofton-Malachi. “We didn’t play as well as we should, but we still got our result.”
USF had 25 shots total and 11 shots on goal.
“I feel like we should just finish our chances,” said junior defender Angelique Waller, who has played every minute this season.
The Golden Panthers were the aggressors in the first half, pouring shots on Lofton-Malachi, who had 13 saves.
After halftime, USF seemed to be the team with the chances, outshooting FIU 12-9 in the second half, including a near game-winning goal from Bahar Sansar’s 35-yard free kick that grazed the crossbar with just under two minutes to go in regulation.
“It was about sharpening up every position, firing early and just getting on top of (FIU),” said USF coach Denise Schilte-Brown. “I thought we set the tempo in the second half quite well.”
USF did receive a setback when Molly Stack was tackled from behind in the 63rd minute and left the game due to injury.
“She’ll be fine, and (the injury) is going to be something that the trainers will be working through,” Schilte-Brown said.
On Sunday, USF faced previously ranked LSU (2-1-1) and took an early lead but gave up two goals as the Tigers defeated USF 2-1.
Sophomore Noelle Pineiro, who started for the first time this season, scored on a penalty kick by LSU goalkeeper Mo Isom in the 63rd minute. It was Pineiro’s third goal of the season.
LSU answered right back as midfielder Melissa Clarke scored on a cross from Taryne Boudreau, and with just three minutes left in the game, Clarke scored again off a deflection by Lofton-Malachi.
“I thought the girls fought really well,” Schilte-Brown said. “We had good contribution from the majority of the team and unfortunately we didn’t get the result.”
-Johnathon Mulder
September 10, 2009
It won’t be another four weeks until the team re-evaluates junior running back Jamar Taylor, who sprained his knee in a scrimmage towards the end of fall camp, said USF coach Jim Leavitt after Wednesday’s practice.
Taylor’s injury is expected to keep him out at least another six weeks.
“The most optimistic thoughts are six weeks,” Leavitt said after Wednesday’s practice. “He’s coming along faster than what most people would’ve thought. He probably could be out there jogging.”
Leavitt said the team has to wait about four weeks until they can put a definitive timetable on Taylor’s return.
“If he can get back in the middle of Big East season, we’ll use him. Otherwise, we’ll redshirt him,” Leavitt said.
Leavitt also didn’t rule out a return to the lineup next Saturday for sophomore safety Jerrell Young when USF hosts Charleston Southern at 7:30 p.m. Young broke his right arm against Wofford.
“Anything’s possible,” Leavitt said. “If he can play, bring him back.”
Landi continues to impress his coach: Redshirt freshman QB/WR is close to starting at wide receiver, Leavitt said after Wednesday’s practice.
Since the spring, Landi, the No. 3 quarterback behind Matt Grothe and B.J. Daniels, has seen a lot of reps at wide receiver as well. Landi had two catches in USF’s 40-7 win against Wofford in Saturday’s season opener.
“He does so much,” Leavitt said. “We’re getting him in there alot with the two’s at quarterback but he’s close to starting at receiver. He’s got to take a lot of reps at receiver.”
-Phil Neary
September 12, 2009
The University of South Florida women’s soccer team scored four first half goals on their way to a 6-0 victory against the Austin Peay Lady Govs on Friday night at the USF soccer stadium.
Noelle Pineiro scored her fourth goal in five games this season and redshirt freshman Brittany Burt scored two goals in 15 minutes while coming off the bench. Chelsea Klotz, Valorie O’brien and Lindsay Krakower also added goals.
USF (2-2-1) travels to Orlando to face UCF on Sunday.
-Phil Neary
September 12, 2009
USF beat Virginia Tech on Friday, 1-0, behind a goal from junior midfielder Shawn Chin just 18 seconds into the second half.
Chin, a Boston College transfer, scored his first goal in a Bulls’ uniform.
USF moves to 4-0 on the year and will host Marquette next Friday to open Big East play.
-Phil Neary
September 12, 2009
USF lost its first match of the season when they were outlasted by the No. 4 Gators, 3-1, in the first match of the Tampa Twice tournament held in the USF Sun Dome.
USF (5-1) hosts No. 9 Minnesota tonight at 8 p.m.
-PN
September 12, 2009
Matt Grothe passed for 208 yards and two touchdowns, Mo Plancher rushed for 115 yards and two touchdowns, and USF used 21 second-half points to beat the Hilltoppers 35-13 on Saturday night in Western Kentucky.
Grothe, who also had 53 yards rushing, became the Big East’s all-time yards leader, passing former West Virginia quarterback Pat White.
USF got on the board when Plancher rushed it in from 1 yard out on a late first quarter drive that was keyed by a 50-yard pass play from Grothe to Carlton Mitchell. Plancher now has four rushing touchdown in two games.
In the second quarter, Grothe connected with receiver Theo Wilson for a 14-yard touchdown pass, which put USF up 14-3. B.J. Daniels, Grothe’s backup, had a seven yard touchdown run in the third, but Western Kentucky kept it close, scoring a touchdown on a 15-yard run by Marell Booker to make it 21-13 after three quarters.
Grothe connected with tight end Ben Busbee for a 17 yard touchdown pass and Plancher broke a 20-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter.
-Phil Neary
September 14, 2009
For winning the 2009 National Invitational tournament, the USF women’s basketball team will be honored by the city of Tampa this week. At 4 p.m. today, the team is expected to visit Tampa Mayor Pam Iorio in her office and present her with an autographed ball.
On Saturday, USF will recognize the team with announcements from the Florida Senate and House of Representatives (AP?) during the first and second quarters of the football team’s game against Charleston Southern at Raymond James Stadium.
“We appreciate Mayor Iorio, the City of Tampa, the Florida House of Representatives and Florida Senate, and the University of South Florida for their support,” said USF coach Jose Fernandez. “Winning the WNIT last year was a special memory that the members of our program will never forget. To get this recognition means a tremendous amount to our players and staff.”
USF, who will raise its WNIT championship banner when it opens the 2009 season Nov. 13, beat Kansas 75-71 in the championship game last April to claims the school’s first championship. USF’s 27-10 record a year ago was the best in school history.
-Phil Neary
September 14, 2009
After serving his two-game suspension, junior Mike Ford is expected to play on Saturday against Charleston Southern, USF coach Jim Leavitt said after Monday’s practice.
Leavitt said he doesn’t know how much Ford will play, however.
“Mo Plancher had a good game (Saturday). Ashton Samuels is awfully good. Lindsey Lamar is playing well. He’s got some guys he’s got to compete with,” Leavitt said.
Ford, who was suspended for the first two games of the season for a violation of team rules, acknowledged his wrongdoing, Leavitt said.
-PN
September 14, 2009
Nursing injuries, redshirt freshman QB/WR Evan Landi and sophomore cornerback Quenton Washington didn’t practice Monday night but are day-to-day, Leavitt said.
USF’s Monday practice was moved to the Sun Dome because of inclement weather. Washington, who’s started at cornerback the first two games, injured his ankle in Saturday’s game against Western Kentucky. Landi left Saturday’s game with an injured right shoulder.
Senior receiver Jessie Hester, who tore ankle ligaments during the spring, is still being evaluated on a day-by-day basis, Leavitt said.
-PN
September 14, 2009
USF’s Sept. 26 game against Florida State at Doak Campbell Stadium in Tallahassee will kick off at noon and will be carried by ESPNU, USF announced Monday.
It will be one of eight USF football games broadcast on the ESPN family of networks this season.
The game will also be shown on the big screen at the Muvico theatre in Ybor City. Admission is free.
FSU, who needed a late fourth quarter score to avoid getting upset by I-AA Jacksonville State on Saturday, will travel to BYU this week while USF hosts Charleston Southern.
Sunday soccer broadcast: USF also announced Monday that Sunday’s top 25 men’s soccer matchup between USF (4-0-0) and Notre Dame (2-2-1) will be broadcasted live at the USF soccer stadium at 1:00 p.m. by the Bright House Sports Network.
USF, coming off a road win against Virginia Tech on Friday, moved to as a high as No.5 in the country in the TopDrawerSoccer.com (TDS) poll.
The Irish, who lost to New Mexico on Monday, fell to No. 21 in the TDS rankings.
USF hosts Marquette at 7:30 p.m. on Friday in its Big East opener.
-PN
September 18, 2009
In its Big East opener, the USF women’s soccer team lost 2-1 to Marquette Thursday night in Milwaukee on an 88th minute goal.
Marquette led at halftime 1-0, but USF’s Chelsea Klotz tied the game in the 63rd minute with her second goal of the season.
Marquette’s Tally McBride put in the game-winner with just two minutes left in regulation.
USF (2-4-1) plays at Stetson on Sunday at noon.
-Phil Neary
September 18, 2009
After Wednesday’s practice, USF coach Jim Leavitt said the starting defensive end spot opposite George Selvie remains a battle and the starter will likely be determined by today.
Leavitt said David Bedford and Jason Pierre-Paul are battling for the spot, with Craig Marshall a “possible” option
Bedford made his first career start against Western Kentucky and recorded his first career solo sack. Marshall started at end in the opener against Wofford, but Leavitt said he’ll likely end up at tackle to make room for Pierre-Paul and Bedford.
“David Bedford is by far playing so much better than last year,” Leavitt said. “Attitude is incredible. Pierre-Paul has a lot of ability. He’s 6-foot-6, 270 (pounds) and can run in the 4.7’s.”
Leavitt said he talked “at length” on Tuesday with defensive line coach Kevin Patrick and that Patrick will make the final decision.
Leavitt also said Wednesday that sophomore defensive tackle Keith McCaskill “might start” at nose tackle or the three-technique against Charleston Southern after performing well in practice.
Other news and notes: Kickoff duties are “pretty wide open” between senior Delbert Alverado and junior Eric Schwartz, Leavitt said. He said he’ll “possibly” let Schwartz handle kickoff duties to allow Alverado to concentrate on field goals. Freshman defensive lineman Anthony Hill “may play” this year.
Injuries: Sophomore safety Jerrell Young (broken arm) is “probably” out for Saturday … Freshman receiver Evan Landi (shoulder) “could play if he had to” … Quenton Washington (ankle) “practiced a little bit” on Wednesday … Tight end Kenneth Luberice, who missed the first two games is “close” … Senior receiver Jessie Hester pulled his hamstring. Hester missed the first two games while still recovering from an ankle injury he suffered in the spring and Leavitt said he’ll ”probably” be out for Saturday.
-Phil Neary
September 18, 2009
USF senior center Alex Rivas is scheduled to have surgery to replace the metal rods in his lower legs, USF announced Friday.
Rivas, likely a starter this year, is expected to miss three months after surgery. USF’s basketball season starts November 13.
Rivas averaged 4.2 points and 4.7 rebounds last year in 30 games.
-PN
September 18, 2009
South Florida’s volleyball team, which beat UCF in straight sets on Tuesday, lost to the College of Charleston in its first match of the Charleston Riverview Classic tournament on Friday.
USF (6-3) dropped the first set 25-20, won the next two, then dropped the fourth and fifth sets, respectively.
College of Charleston scored eight straight points at one point in the fifth set.
USF’s Marcela Gurgel moved into third-place on the school’s all-time kills list.
USF concludes its tournament with Lafayette on Saturday at 1 p.m.
-PN
September 20, 2009
USF senior quarterback Matt Grothe tore the ACL in his left knee in USF’s route of Charleston Southern Saturday night and is expected to miss the rest of the season, USF announced Sunday.
Grothe, the four-year starter, has started 41 consecutive games for USF.
“Obviously, I am disappointed because you never think this could happen to you,” Grothe said in a statement. “It’s a team game and I am still going to be very involved with my teammates and the coaches. I am going to do everything I can to help the Bulls continue to win.”
Grothe appeared to be sandwiched between tacklers during a second-quarter rush, causing his knee to plant awkwardly. Coaches and trainers sprinted out to Grothe when they saw him yell in pain.
“I saw it right away. It was almost like something told me to sprint out before it happened. I don’t know what,” Leavitt said. “It was a tough moment.”
Redshirt freshman B.J. Daniels will assume starting quarterback duties in Grothe’s absence, with freshman Evan Landi to serve as his backup, Leavitt said.
Daniels stepped in for Grothe nicely, rushing for 105 yards and passing for 149 yards on Saturday.
-Phil Neary
September 21, 2009
Key questions and answers:
Are student tickets still available? Yes, as of 5:00 p.m. Monday, 380 tickets remain available.
How do I buy a ticket? At gousfbulls.com (If you do not yet have a student ticket account, you can create one and buy tickets immediately)
What is the ticket price? $52 ($49 + $3 service fee)
Can I buy a guest ticket or tickets? Yes
Can I sit with my friends? Yes, all seats are reserved, but the Athletic Department will put students together if they pick up their tickets at the same time
When and where can I pick up my tickets? Tickets should be picked up at the Sun Dome Box Office on Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday. The Box Office will be open from 9:00-7:00 p.m. on Tuesday and 9:00-5:00 p.m. on Wednesday and Thursday
Game Time: Saturday, Sept. 26 at noon
Is free transportation available by USF? Yes. The offices of Student Government and Dean of Students are providing FREE bus transportation for up to 300 USF students. Seats are still available but students should register now. Buses will leave the Sun Dome Parking Lot at 5:00 a.m. and return immediately following the game. Food, snacks, soft drinks and great DVDs will be available at no cost! All the details are available at www.sg.usf.edu/USFvsFSU
September 23, 2009
Big East Volleyball opens up this week as USF coach Claire Lessinger and the Bulls head north to play their first two league games on the road. Rutgers (6-7) will host the Bulls on Saturday at 2 p.m., and Seton Hall (6-9) will be the home team for Sunday’s match at 1 p.m.
The Bulls head into the weekend at 7-3 coming off of a 1-1 showing at the Holiday Inn Charleston Riverside Classic in Charleston, South Carolina last weekend.
Preseason Big East Player of the Year Marcela Gurgel leads USF with 3.66 kills-per-set. Alli Arbogast has an elbow injury that has kept her sidelined for the last 3 matches. Kelsey Palmer has taken Arbogast’s spot in the rotation and has contributed just less than 1 block-per-set.
This will be the first taste of Big East action for transfers Pamela Luiz and Janice Rivera. Rivera played in the Big South last season for Winthrop University, while Luiz played in the Big 10 for the University of Minnesota. Luiz is 3rd on the team with 74 kills on the season. Rivera has stepped into the shoes vacated by last year’s libero Stephanie Augustavo and has accumulated 124 digs and 5 service aces on the season.
Last season, Gurgel tied for a team-high 11 kills against Rutgers in a straight-sets victory at home in The Corral. Rutgers last beat the Bulls in October of 2005, a season in which USF went 3-21 overall and only 1-13 in Big East play.
Last season’s match against Seton Hall was a five-set thriller that the Bulls eventually won. USF needed the win to stay in contention for a Big East Tournament berth. Marcela Gurgel outdueled Seton Hall’s Sarah Osmun to claim a match high 25 kills. Osmun finished with 23.
-Mike Manganello
September 25, 2009
An overtime goal by West Virginia’s Shadow Sebele gave the Mountaineers a 1-0 upset victory Friday night over No. 3 USF in its first Big East road match of the season.
The Bulls (5-1-1) play at Pittsburgh on Sunday at 1 p.m.
September 28, 2009
USF defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul was named Big East defensive player of the week after his performance against FSU on Saturday. Pierre-Paul had a sack, a forced fumble, and three tackles for loss against FSU.
A junior college transfer, Pierre-Paul is tied with George Selvie for the team lead in tackles for loss with 4.5.
Redshirt freshman quarterback B.J. Daniels, who made his first career start, was named to the Big East honor roll after totaling 341 yards and two touchdowns on Saturday.
-Phil Neary
September 28, 2009
Through the first four games of the 2009 football season, USF’s defense has been close to perfect. Granted, three of USF’s opponents weren’t exactly offensive juggernauts, but think about this: USF held a team that scored 54 points on the then-No.7 team in the country to one touchdown, which came in the fourth quarter.
Going back to the start of the Charleston Southern game, USF didn’t allow a point in seven quarters until FSU’s touchdown in the fourth quarter on Saturday. The 27 points USF has given up during the first four games is a school record for lowest amount of points given in any four-game stretch.
USF also ranks No. 2 nationally in scoring defense, No. 2 in red zone defense, No. 1 in third down defense, No. 5 in pass defense, and No. 11 in total defense.
-Phil Neary
September 28, 2009
In college football’s two major polls, the Associated Press and the USA Today Coaches’ Poll, USF didn’t crack the top 25 after beating then-No. 18 FSU 17-7 on Saturday.
USF received 145 votes from the associated press and 117 from the coaches, as FSU fell out of each poll. With a win against Syracuse on Saturday, there’s a good chance USF will be ranked in both polls, setting up a possible top 25 showdown with Cincinnati the following Thursday. Cincinnati is the highest ranked team in the Big East, coming in at No. 10 this week in the AP and No. 11 in the coaches’ poll.
Unranked teams receiving more votes than USF in the AP Poll are Missouri, South Carolina, and Auburn. The only unranked team receiving more votes than USF in the coaches’ poll is Georgia Tech, who already has a loss this year but beat then-No. 22 North Carolina 24-7 on Saturday.
USF did make an appearance as the No. 25 team in ESPN’s new addition of its college football Power Rankings, which are released every Monday.
-Phil Neary
October 3, 2009
B.J. Daniels threw for two touchdowns, USF’s defense forced seven Syracuse turnovers, and the Bulls beat Syracuse 34-20 in the Carrrier Dome Saturday afternoon to move to 5-0 on the season.
The two teams had a combined five turnovers in the first five minutes of the game. After a Syracuse fumble, Mike Ford scored on a 26-yard touchdown run on the Bulls’ ensuing drive. Ford finished with two touchdowns and 68 yards rushing.
On USF’s first offensive play in the second half, Daniels connected with Carlton Mitchell for an 85-yard throw and catch for a touchdown. Daniels hit Mitchell for 33-yard touchdown in the second quarter. Mitchell finished with 139 receiving yards.
USF junior end Jason Pierre-Paul, who was named Big East Player of the week last week after his defensive effort against FSU, had a 19-yard interception return for a touchdown to give USF a 34-13 lead in the third quarter.
USF picked off Syracuse quarterback Greg Paulus five times.
-Phil Neary
October 4, 2009
Entering this past weekend’s Big East conference match with Cincinnati, USF goalkeeper Jeff Attinella had recorded three shut outs and had not allowed more than one goal in any of South Florida’s eight contests.
With the No. 6 Bulls’ 2-0 victory over the Bearcats Saturday night at the USF Soccer Stadium, Attinella continued his impressive 2009 campaign by notching his fourth shutout of the year.
Attinella made six saves, including a key save on a Cincinnati penalty kick late in the game, and the Bulls (7-1-1, 3-1-1) got second half goals from Ashani Fairclough and Bernardo Anor to win a key conference match against a physical opponent in Cincinnati (7-4-0, 2-3-0).
“(Cincinnati) played a disruptive game and I think they were coached to play that way,” said Bulls coach George Kiefer. “I think we’ll see a lot of similar styles from other Big East teams so it was good to get some practice against it. Overall I thought we played very well tonight and Jeff Attinella was huge for us.”
After the two teams combined for a total of eight shots on goal in a scoreless first half, USF got a break early in the second half.
In the 51st minute, freshman midfielder Ashani Fairclough scored the first goal of his collegiate career when he knocked in a bending pass from Javed Mohammed’s free kick to give USF a 1-0 lead.
The Bulls continued to play strong defense and looked to be on their way to another quality win until a handball inside the goalie box gave the Bearcats a penalty kick in the 83rd minute.
Senior midfielder Judson McKinney took the penalty shot for Cincinnati and watched as his drive to the lower left corner of the goal was stopped by the outstretched arms of Attinella.
“I was able to read where (McKinney) was going with the ball and luckily dove in the same direction as his shot,” Attinella said. “Then for us to score a goal right after that was huge.”
Just 49 seconds after Attinella’s save preserved USF’s one goal lead, sophomore midfielder Bernardo Anor secured the match for the Bulls when he headed in his team leading fourth goal of the season off a perfectly placed crossing pass from Jorge Mora. Mohammed was also credited with an assist on the play, giving him two for the match and a team high four on the year.
“The offense was very dangerous tonight,” Kiefer said. “We created five good chances and came away with two goals. I’m happy with the direction we are going in.”
Attinella said he was glad to see his team earn an important win over Cincinnati, but says the Bulls need to improve in certain areas such as transitions and controlling the ball.
“It has been a good season for us so far but we are nowhere near satisfied,” he said. “We just have to continue to work hard and get better every day.”
-Joel Leventhal
October 5, 2009
The ESPN hype-machine will be in full force leading up until next Thursday night.
USF, ranked No. 23 in the Associated Press poll, hosts No. 8 Cincinnati on Thursday, Oct. 15 in another season-changing type game. Fair or not, the winner will most likely be tagged the favorite to win the Big East.
USF (5-0) and Cincinnati (5-0) each have byes this week, so each team will have a few extra days to prepare for the other.
“It helps a lot because you have extra time to work on things, like film studying. It is going to be helpful,” said senior Nate Allen. “We get to rest a little bit, too.”
They also get almost an extra week of preparation for the Bearcats, a team USF hasn’t beaten since 2005. Last year, Cincinnati beat USF 24-10, one of the Bulls’ five conferences losses after being ranked as high as No. 10 in the country early in the year.
“We started off strong and we got to the middle of the season where we started playing BIG EAST games and we just slumped,” Allen said of last year’s team. “To be great you can’t do that. To be great you need to have a great season.”
Part of the process, Allen said, is convincing the team to not get caught up in the rankings. The Bulls have been ranked in the top 10 each of the last two years, including a No. 2 ranking in 2007. That year, USF lost its next three games after being ranked No. 2. Last year, USF lost four of five after being ranked No. 10.
“We can’t think about it,” Allen said. “We have to stay focused. In the past we have gotten ranked and it has got to us.”
-Phil Neary
October 5, 2009
For the second consecutive week, a USF player has been voted the Big East defensive Player of the Week by the conference.
Allen had two interceptions and eight tackles against Syracuse, and now leads the team in tackles (29), interceptions (2) and passes defended (5).
USF’s defense forced a school-record seven Syracuse turnovers on Saturday.
Last week, junior end Jason Pierre-Paul received the same honor after his effort against Florida State. Pierre-Paul had a 19-yard interception return for a touchdown on Saturday.
Junior wide receiver Carlton Mitchell was named to the conference’s weekly honor roll after catching six passes for 139 yards and two touchdowns. The two touchdowns and 139 yards were career-highs.
Men’s soccer player honored, too: junior defender Javed Mohammed also received national recognition by being named to the TopSoccerDrawer.com National Team of the Week.
Mohammed assisted on each of USF’s two goals against Cincinnati last Wednesday in USF’s 2-0 victory. His four assists are a team-high.
-Phil Neary
October 6, 2009
In celebration of the Bulls’ 17-7 win over FSU last Saturday, a new Billboard was put up by the USF marketing department on Monday on I-275 near downtown Tampa, reading:
“BIG 3” with the “3” crossed out and replaced by a “4.”
USF’s logo, which appears almost twice as big as the other logos on the Billboard, is placed next to the Seminoles’, Gators’ and Hurricanes’ logos. Beneath the logos reads the words:
“Welcome to the Club Bulls Fans!”
Cute, right?
USF coach Jim Leavitt doesn’t think so.
“I haven’t seen it, I had nothing to do with it, I don’t know how it got up and I don’t know who put it up,” Leavitt told the Tampa Tribune on Tuesday. “I don’t want anyone to ever think that here I’m the guy having anything to do with that. That bothers me. I don’t want people to sit there and think I think we’re all that – because we’re not. We’re a program that’s trying to get competitive. We’re a program trying to build.”
Leavitt has said numerous times that in order for USF to be even considered in the “Big 3″ conversation, USF would have to beat Florida, FSU, or Miami.
“We have not won national championships and we have not won conference championships,” Leavitt said. “What gives us the right to sit there all of a sudden like we’ve won all these championships and done all this stuff? That’s not me. That’s never been me.”
-Phil Neary
October 8, 2009
USF received a verbal commitment from defensive end Claude Davis earlier today, its ninth commitment for its 2010 recruiting class.
Davis, who graduated from East Mississippi Community College last December, is the second committed defensive end in USF’s 2010 class, joining Brandon Wilkinson, a three-star out of Venice, Florida.
-PN
October 11, 2009
Senior receiver Jessie Hester, who hasn’t played this season due to injury, and sophomore safety Jerrell Young, who broke his arm in USF’s opener, are probable for Thursday’s game against Cincinnati, USF coach Jim Leavitt said on Monday.
“If (Hester) isn’t in the lineup, it won’t be because he’s not healthy,” Leavitt said.
Hester was recovering from ankle surgery earlier in the year, but a hamstring issue has kept him out of the last few games.
Leavitt said he expects Young to play, but doesn’t know if he’ll start.
“That’s a pretty strong statement (for Young to start),” he said.
Defensive tackle Cory Grissom hurt his foot on Saturday and “might be out” against Cincinnati, Leavitt said.
-Phil Neary
October 12, 2009
USF announced Monday that the kickoff for the Bulls’ away game against Pittsburgh on Saturday, Oct. 24 will be at noon.
Chosen as the Big East Game of the Week, the game will be aired by ESPN Regional, ESPN Gameplan, and ESPN360.com.
-PN
October 12, 2009
USF coach Jim Leavitt said defensive tackle Cory Grissom may have a stress fracture in his left foot, an injury suffered in the Syracuse game on Oct. 3, that may cause him to miss the remainder of the season.
Grissom has played in all five games this year, making five total tackles.
“It looks like it’s going to be extended,” Leavitt said. “He may have to have surgery on it. It’s tough. He’s played a lot of football.”
Leavitt also said freshman defensive end Ryne Giddins is unable to practice because of an ankle sprain he suffered last week. Giddins has played in three games this year.
“That thing is a pretty good sprain,” Leavitt said. “Those things sometimes take three or four weeks. I’m not optimistic about it.”
-PN
October 14, 2009
There’s good and bad to USF’s five-set losses, said coach Claire Lessinger.
“We sure would like to be somewhere different (in the Big East standings), 5-0 would be nice,” said USF coach Claire Lessinger. “Our losses are painful losses. Anytime you lose in 5 and you give a good run and you compete with a good team it sticks around a little bit longer.”
“But with every loss, you learn something. This groups tenacity and resilience has really impressed me,” Lessinger said.
USF’s two conference losses have both been in 5-set matches.
But that’s in the past, and Syracuse University and Marquette University await as the USF volleyball team embarks on its 2nd Big East road trip of the season. The Bulls’ first road trip was a successful one with victories over Rutgers and Seton Hall. The Syracuse Orange (16-5, 5-1) will host USF (10-5, 3-2) on Friday night before the Bulls travel to Milwaukee for a Sunday afternoon meeting with Marquette (12-8, 2-4).
The Bulls are in for another tough weekend in the unpredictable Big East. Syracuse currently has the best overall record in the conference and is only a half game behind conference leaders Notre Dame in Big East play. Notre Dame is 5-0 in conference. Syracuse is riding a 5 match winning streak and is undefeated at home so far this season. Syracuse is led by senior middle blocker Sarah Morton and freshman setter Laura Homann. Morton is 1st in the country with 80 total blocks and collects 3.11 kills per set.
“Syracuse brings a team much like we saw against Pittsburgh because they’re really efficient offensively,” Lessinger said. “They’ve got one of the best blockers in the conference and we’re going to have to put it all together to beat Syracuse. We have to do a good job of containing their big offense and we did a good job with that against Pittsburgh.”
-Mike Manganello
October 14, 2009
USF coach Denise Schilte-Brown is hoping that her team’s four game road trip will help the players focus and get away from distractions.
“I think they’re excited and ready to keep the ball rolling and get away from the distractions,” she said. “I do think getting off campus and getting away from distractions will help us on the road.”
While the Bulls are getting away from the distractions of “exams, school, professors, and friends,” Schilte-Brown said, some players are starting to think about the Big East tournament after defeating Connecticut 2-1 this past Sunday.
“If we make it in the top couple teams of the Big East we could make the Big East tournament,” said senior Amanda McCormick.
The top eight teams in the conference standings at season’s end get a tournament birth.
If USF is going to earn a berth into this year’s tournament the Bulls must first focus on this week’s games first.
USF (6-5-3, 3-2-2) begins its four game road trip against Louisville (4-6-0, 1-6-0) Friday nigh at 7:00 p.m. USF and the Cardinals have faced off twelve times with the series tied 6-6, but Louisville has won the last five meetings.
Louisville is returning from a five game road trip and a two game losing streak, losing at Georgetown and Villanova. The Cardinals are statistically at the bottom half of the league in almost every category including shots taken, goals scored, and saves made.
After Louisville, the Bulls will make a short trip north to take on Cincinnati (7-7-1, 2-4-1) Sunday at 1 p.m. Like Louisville, the Bearcats have had recent success against USF as of late, defeating the Bulls the past three seasons by a combined score of 6-1.
That’s even more a reason for USF put the distractions behind them.
“It’s just great to have focus (on the road) and we need it,” Schilte-Brown said.
-Phil Neary
October 15, 2009
Here we are at the lovely Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, getting ready for the No. 21 Bulls to take on No. 8 Cincinnati in a game with enormous Big East implications.
The Oracle has got you covered for constant live game updates.
Stay tuned.
-PN
October 15, 2009
USF’s defense forced a three and out on Cincinnati’s first drive of the game, but USF’s offense was stuffed, and Delbert Alverado shanked a punt to give the Bearcats good field position on their second drive of the game.
-PN
October 15, 2009
Cincinnati’s second drive of the game, which started in USF territory, ended in a Jacob Rogers field goal to put Cincinnati on the board first with about 10 minutes to go in the first quarter.
-PN
October 15, 2009
B.J. Daniels connected with senior receiver Jessie Hester on a 28-yard touchdown throw and catch and USF takes a 7-3 lead with 6 minutes to go in the first quarter.
-PN
October 15, 2009
After an 83-yard interception return down to USF’s four yard line, the Bearcats punched it in and has a 10-7 lead with 14:30 to go in the second quarter.
-PN
October 15, 2009
Cincinnati capped off an eight play drive on a Tony Pike to Armon Benn touchdown reception and takes a 10 point lead with 4:31 to in the second quarter. The Bearcats converted on a third down and 17 early in the drive.
-PN
October 15, 2009
Eric Schwartz hit a career-long 50 yard field as time expired in the second quarter and USF cut into the Bearcats lead. USF is down a touchdown at halftime and get the ball to start the third quarter.
-PN
October 15, 2009
Cincinnati backup quarterback Zach Collaros split the USF defense for a 75-yard touchdown run with momentum seeminly in USF’s favor.
It’s about midway through the third quarter.
-PN
October 15, 2009
After a Nate Allen interception deep in Cincinnati territory, Daniels scored on a one-yard quarterback sneak in the closing moments of the third quarter.
-PN
October 15, 2009
After a Jerome Murphy pass interference penalty, Collaros scored on a 3-yard rush to put the Bearcats up 31-17 with 13 minutes to go in the game.
-PN
October 15, 2009
Cincinnati field goal makes it a three possession game with 6:30 to go in the game.
-PN
October 15, 2009
USF falls to 5-1 on the season and Cincinnati appears to be in the driver’s seat in the Big East.
-PN
October 18, 2009
It took everything they had, but the University of South Florida volleyball team finally exorcised two of its biggest demons on Sunday in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The Bulls (11-6, 4-3) claimed a five-set victory over Marquette University (13-9, 3-5) 21-25, 25-15, 25-14, 14-25, 15-13
Things were looking ominous for the Bulls after losing the first set. USF had been 0-3 in matches after losing the first set. USF coach Claire Lessinger inspired the team to emphatic 2nd and 3rd set victories, and was hoping to close out the match in the 4th set. The Bulls had previously been 0-3 in five-set matches this season.
With the match in perfect balance at 10-10 in the 5th set, a controversial net violation was called on USF senior outside hitter Pamela Luiz. Lessinger protested the decision and was shown a yellow card by match officials. After Marquette evened the score once again at 13-13, the ensuing serve was errant, giving the Bulls a match point. A powerful Allie Boaz kill erased the Bulls losing streaks when losing the first set and in five-set matches.
Sunday’s match versus Marquette was a rebound match for the Bulls after having lost 1-3 to Syracuse University on Friday Night, 25-19, 14-25, 21-25, 20-25. Syracuse entered the match at an impressive 5-1 in the Big East and an undefeated 7-0 at home overall on the season. USF won the first set, shocking the home crowd. But Syracuse (18-5, 7-1) responded with a new game plan and rallied to win the next three sets, closing out the match.
With only 4 points played in the 3rd set, half of the lights in Syracuse’s Manley Field House suddenly shut off, similar to when the lights in the Sun Dome Corral shut off 4 points into the Bulls’ match against St. Johns earlier this month. Lessinger and Syracuse coach Jing Pu met and decided there was just enough light to continue the match.
Syracuse outhit the Bulls .241 to .188 as well as out blocking USF 11-7. Despite the low hitting percentage, USF had three players reach double-digit kills. Big East Pre-Season Player of the Year Marcela Gurgel led the team with 16 kills, followed by Allie Boaz’s 13 kills, and Pamela Luiz’s 10. Syracuse was carried by freshman setter Laura Homann’s 49 assists and Hayley Todd’s 21 kills.
“Syracuse made really good adjustments in game two. I thought we did a great job containing their two top hitters but two of their other offensive weapons really brought it to us,” Lessinger said.
-Mike Manganello
October 18, 2009
USF couldn’t have started its four game road trip any better.
The Bulls (8-5-3, 5-2-2) began their weekend with an impressive 3-0 victory against Louisville, ended it with dramatic 2-1 overtime win against Cincinnati, and are now in a first-place tie atop the Big East American Division standings.
On Friday, USF took a 1-0 lead in the 37th minute when freshman Taylor Patterson found the back of the net for her first collegiate goal. The Bulls never relinquished their lead.
“Despite being up 1-0, I really wasn’t happy with the way we played,” said head coach Denise Schilte-Brown. “They (Louisville) control the ball much better than we did and created a lot more scoring opportunities.”
Even though the Bulls held a 1-0 score advantage, the first half was statistically controlled by Louisville (4-11-0, 1-8-0) as the Cardinals outshot USF 9-2.
“I am very proud of the way we came out and responded in the second half,” said USF coach Denise Schilte-Brown. “We challenged the team at halftime and they came out and really took control of the match.”
Schilte-Brown’s team came out strong in the second half as they scored twice in the first four minutes of the half.
Sophomore Gina Pacheco put USF up 2-0 just a minute and a half into the second half after taking a cross from sophomore Rehana Murani. Pacheco has scored a goal in her last two games.
USF managed to beat Louisville goalkeeper Taylor Vancil one more time. Valorie O’Brien recorded her second goal of the season when she sent one in from just inside the box to give the Bulls a comfortable 3-0 lead.
Schilte-Brown was able to give several key reserves valuable playing time, including redshirt freshman goalkeeper Gaby Garton. Garton made four saves in the 19 minutes of game she played, and she has not conceded a score while in goal for 65 minutes this season.
USF traveled to Cincinnati for their second of four consecutive road games yesterday. The game proved to be a thriller as USF (8-5-3, 5-2-2) defeated Cincinnati (7-9-1, 2-6-1) 2-1 in overtime.
The first half was filled with offensive firepower as both teams had four shots on goal and USF outshot the Bearcats 10-8. Again, both teams were scoreless as the first half ended.
“The mindset coming in was Cincinnati is a hard team to play,” said assistant coach Chris Brown. “The girls across the board were fantastic today.”
USF drew first blood in the 62nd minute when Chelsea Klotz found the back of the net for a 1-0 lead for USF. Klotz was assisted by Gina Pacheco, her third assist of the season.
“It gave us all a second win and it was great knowing everyone was behind you,” Klotz said.
Cincinnati would tie the game just 11 minutes later when sophomore Emily Hebbeler scored the equalizer making it 1-1. The goal was Hebbeler’s sixth of the season.
The game would remain tied when regulation ended with the Bearcats holding a 20-17 advantage on shots. USF and Cincinnati had been averaging 13 and 9 shots per game, respectively.
“Their team and their style are quite difficult to play against because they are direct from all points,” Chris Brown said. “I would say 17 or 18 of their shots were from 35 yards out or more. As a coach there were only four shots that I was kind of on edge about. The rest of them you could see from the moment they let go of them that Mallori (Lofton-Malachi) would handle them.”
Lofton-Malachi finished the match with eight saves.
Klotz would win it for the Bulls in overtime. Klotz scored six minutes into overtime when Rehana Murani passed to Klotz for the game winner. The goal was Klotz’s seventh of the season and eleventh of her career.
“I was really excited for not only myself but my team,” Klotz said. “I was really happy that we worked together to come together for a win.”
-Johnathon Mulder
October 24, 2009
Greetings from Pittsburgh!
It’s an overcast and mildly chilly day here in the Steel City. It rained a lot Friday and the wind is blowing the flags on the river side of Heinz Field. We’ll see if that plays a factor today …
Let’s first give you the rundown on where you’ll find live updates today from Heinz Field when USF faces No. 20 Pittsburgh at noon:
- Follow live here on the blog for frequent play-by-play: I’ll be re-updating the same post throughout the game titled “Live Blog,” so just refresh the page to get more updates. You’ll also know when a new blog post is up because I’ll link it to the Tweet feed.
- Follow live on our Twitter page for up-t0-minute updates
- Not a Tweeter? No worries. Our Twitter feeds right onto our front page: usforacle.com. Just refresh the page.
Links:
Want to give you all some background to this matchup, which pits (no pun intended) No. 20 Pittsburgh (6-1, 3-0) and USF (5-1, 1-1).
The main thing to look at are those last two comma splices — the Big East record. If Pitt takes care of USF, it almost seemingly eliminates the Bulls’ chance at a Big East title this year. That would put Pitt top of the league at 4-0 and USF possibly in second- to-last place in the conference.
A win for the Bulls, however, could put them just a game out if Cincinnati were to surprisingly lose at Louisville. But I’m thinking that won’t happen.
More in depth:
-Phil Neary runs down that entire situation in his preview for the Oracle this week. There’s also some matchups to watch here.
- St. Petersburg Times writer Greg Auman features/advances with Nate Allen, who will be making his last trip to Heinz Field today, and Joey Johnston of the Tribune ponders the strength of the Big East.
- ESPN writer Brian Bennett does some pondering of his own on today’s game here.
- Tom Zebold of the Lakeland Ledger writes about Pitt RB Dion Lewis, who poses a big threat for the Bulls’ defense today.
It’s about an hour til first kick. I’ll be Tweeting some until then and will be on close to the beginning of the game.
-Kerry Klecic
October 24, 2009
Two ways to follow live updates: (Twitter users) www.twitter.com/usforacle or (non-Twitter users) our front page at usforacle.com.
I’ll still be posting on here but not as much play-by-play …
Game:
(3rd, 1:24): Dan Hutchins makes his second field goal of the game, this one from 32 yards out, and No. 20 Pittsburgh leads USF 34-7 at Heinz Field. It looks as if the Bulls will move to 1-2 in conference play unless something along the lines of a miracle will happen.
(Halftime): Things are not going as planned for USF, which trails 31-7 to No. 20 Pittsburgh at halftime. The story: Pitt’s offense, specifically quarterback Bill Stull, who is 13-for-17 with 191 yards passing and two touchdowns.
Not mentioning freshman RB Dion Lewis, though, would be wrong. Lewis, who just scored his second of the game has 86 yards on 13 carries.
The Bulls are not helping themselves. USF has eight penalties for 56 yards. It looks as if the October woes shall continue …
(2nd, 2:50): And … Pitt adds more onto the lead. 24-7 now after Dan Hutchins nails a 39-yard field goal. Bill Stull, 12-for-15 for 186 yards, led the Panthers on another impressive drive … Pitt will receive the ball to begin the second half. Things looking awfully bleak for USF right now … Still a chance to score before halftime, though …
(2nd, 8:01) 21-7 Pitt. Dion Lewis, one of the nation’s leading rushers) scored on a 1-yard rush. The Bulls had two facemasks in consecutive plays. Now have eight penalties for 51 yards. The Bulls are 106th in the nation for most penalties this season …
(2nd, 10:35): USF cuts the lead in half with a 3-yard touchdown run by Mike Ford. Panthers lead 14-7. B.J. Daniels was big on that drive, pulling off runs of 10 and 12 and completing a 40-yard throw to freshman Sterling Griffin.
(2nd, 14:53): Jerome Murphy got burned by Pitt sophomore Jonathan Baldwin, who brings in a 40-yard touchdown grab to give the Panthers a 14-0 lead at Heinz Field … Bill Stull is 8-f0r-8 with 118 yards to begin. The Bulls only have 40 yards on offense …
End of the first: Impressive start for the Pittsburgh offense, which has received a perfect 7-for-7 start from senior quarterback Bull Stull. Stull connected with Cruz early to give the Panthers the 7-0 lead.
The Bulls’ offense has been silent but was hurt by some key penalties, including a chop block that brought back a near-20-yard run by junior Jamar Taylor, who is back after missing the first half of the season with a knee injury.
Other notes: Junior Craig Marshall started at defensive end in place of Jason Pierre-Paul … The Bulls have eight rushing plays already … B.J. Daniels is 1-for-1 on his only attempt, which was a shovel pass …
(1st, 4:30): TOUCHDOWN: Pitt takes an early 7-0 lead with a 2-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Bill Stull to freshman tight end Mike Cruz. Stull play-action faked and Cruz, who got his first-career TD, was wide open in the end zone. The Bulls are already hurting themselves, committing three penalties for 20 yards …
October 26, 2009
USF (8-7-3, 5-4-2) lost a heartbreaker to St. John’s (12-5-1, 6-4-1) in overtime 1-0 on Friday night. It was the first overtime loss for the Bulls this season.
Both teams had scoring opportunities throughout the game as St. John’s and USF had five and four shots on goal, respectively.
Senior goalkeeper Mallori Lofton-Malachi had five saves on the night, but gave up the golden goal in the second overtime. Just two minutes into the second overtime, St. John’s midfielder Vaila Barsley found Courtney Lane. who placed a perfect shot just out of the reach of Lofton-Malachi to give the Red Storm the win.
USF stayed in New York to close out the regular season against Syracuse (5-11-3, 2-8-1). The match against the Orange proved to be challenging for the Bulls as Syracuse came out on top 3-2.
In the 12th minute, Tina Romagnuolo of Syracuse beat Lofton-Malachi to put the Orange up 1-0.
The Orange would extend their lead to 2-0 when senior Tessa MacDougall converted a penalty kick. Syracuse was given the kick due to a hand ball against USF in the box.
USF, however, scored twice within a twelve minute span. Noelle Pineiro would notch two assists as Chelsea Klotz and defender Angelique Waller scored goals.
With nine minute left, Syracuse took control as Romagnuolo scored her second goal of the game to give Syracuse the win. After this weekend’s losses USF finished the regular season fourth in the American division of the Big East.
The Bulls clinched a home game in the Big East tournament that will pit USF against National division foe DePaul on Thursday night.
-Johnathon Mulder
October 27, 2009
The USF volleyball team will get a break from Big East play tonight, hosting Florida A&M in the Sun Dome Corral at 7.
The Bulls (13-8, 6-3) will put a three-match winning streak on the line, while the Rattlers (8-6, 5-0 MEAC) enter having won five straight.
“We’ve played a FAMU or an FIU, someone in-state, usually midweek sometime during Big East play just to get you out of your regular system of Big East play,” said USF coach Claire Lessinger.
USF, which has won seven of twelve against non-conference opponents this year, is coming of arguably its most successful weekend. The Bulls didn’t drop a set in two wins against Georgetown and St. John’s.
USF’s last played an out-of-conference match more than a month ago, beating Lafayette 3-0 in the Holiday Inn Charleston Riverview Classic tournament.
“These are teams that are making the NCAA tournament, winning their conference and putting up winning records … This is a good RPI schedule for us, and it gives us another opportunity to get a significant win,” Lessinger said.
-Mike Mangenello
October 29, 2009
Riding a 3 match Big East win streak, the USF volleyball team travels to Philadelphia Friday night to take on the Villanova Wildcats.
The winning streak has propelled the Bulls (14-6, 6-3) to 5th in the Big East with only 5 matches to play, while Villanova (16-7, 5-3) sits in a three way tie for 6th. Only the top 8 teams will qualify for next month’s Big East championships in Louisville.
Big East Preseason Player of the Year Marcela Gurgel left Tuesday’s night’s match against Florida A&M after two sets due to feeling weak and was taken to the hospital for precautionary reasons. USF coach Claire Lessinger is unsure of Gurgel’s status for the Villanova match.
“As of right now, we’re just letting her get some rest,” she said. “She had a long night and we’re just waiting for clearance from the doctors and trainers.”
If Gurgel cannot play, Latvian Freshman Maija Strazdina will fill in as she did on Tuesday night. Strazdina recorded in 6 kills and 5 digs in the longest appearance of her young USF career.
The Bulls beat Villanova 3-1 last year in the Corral and the match-up usually has conference tournament implications riding on it.
“This Villanova team, regardless of how personnel changes year-to-year, it’s a game,” Lessinger said. “We’ve had head-to-head matches there and head-to-head matches here and they’ve usually been important. It doesn’t matter what players they put on the other side of the net, I know it’s going to come down to the wire.”
-Mike Manganello
October 30, 2009
USF defeated DePaul 1-0 in the first round of the Big East tournament Thursday at the USF soccer stadium and will travel to South Bend, Indiana to take on Notre Dame in the quarterfinals on Sunday.
USF got a goal from sophomore Chelsea Klotz and senior goalkeeper Mallori Lofton-Malachi recorded her 22nd career shutout.
-Phil Neary
October 30, 2009
stay tuned for updates throughout the game…
-PN
October 30, 2009
And the USF defense picked up right where they left off last week…
West Virginia quarterback Jarrett Brown capped off an 11 play 80 yard opening drive with a two yard touchdown run to put the Mountaineers ahead of the Bulls 7-0.
Let’s see if USF’s offense can answer on its opening offensive drive.
-PN
October 30, 2009
That didn’t take long.
B.J. Daniels connected with Carlton Mitchell on a 49 yard pass play for a touchdown to tie the game. USF converted a huge fourth down on the drive, with coach Jim Leavitt electing to go for a fourth and 1 at midfield.
We’re about midway through the first quarter.
-PN
October 30, 2009
After the USF defense forced the Mountaineers a three and out, the USF offense drove down the field and set up an Eric Schwartz 30 yard field goal to give USF a three point lead.
West Virginia is driving, though.
-PN
October 30, 2009
That’s right folks: a safety.
Jamar Taylor got tackled in the end zone and West Virginia cut into Bulls lead heading into the second quarter. USF was backed up on its own one-yard line thanks to an effective punt and a penalty.
USF will kick off the the Mountaineers to start the second quarter.
-PN
October 30, 2009
USF was able to overcome a horrific call by the officiating crew as Daniels hit a wide open A.J. Love for a 12 yard touchdown pass. On the drive, Daniels hit Mitchell on what would have been a 78 yard touchdown pass but the officials ruled Mitchell out of bounds at the 12-yard line. They reviewed it, but apparently didn’t have enough evidence to overturn it even though Mitchell was clearly in bounds the entire time.
USF leads by eight midway through the second quarter.
-PN
October 30, 2009
West Virginia hits a field goal with 3:34 remaining in the second quarter.
-PN
October 30, 2009
Eric Schwartz knocks through a 30 yard field goal with :23 to go before halftime.
-PN
