Roundball Queries about Texas, Tennessee and KCMO

1. In a radio interview this morning, Bill Self said that Texas has "a lot of nice pieces." What exactly does that mean? Mario C. -- Lawrence, KS

Mario,
I also heard on the radio this morning that J Lo, who is currently pregnant with twins and expecting to deliver soon has “a really nice ‘birthing unit’ that only a very few will be allowed access”. Now, just like I find it hard to believe that only a few have or will have access to Jennifer’s “unit”, I find it hard to believe that you don’t know what Bill Self means. I’ll break it down anyway.

Coach Self means that Texas is really in the groove and is now putting it all together at just the right time. Just ask Texas A&M if Texas has “a lot of nice pieces” after the way they were manhandled Monday night by 27.

“A lot of nice pieces” means arguably the best point guard in the nation in DJ Augustin, a superior shooting guard in AJ Abrams, a swing man in Mason that outrebounds most big guys at 6’2”, a center that is deadly from 3-point range in Atchley and an incredible athlete at forward in Damion James. Not to mention, a reasonably good bench, a seasoned coach in Rick Barnes and a current #7 ranking. Nuff said, Einstein.


2. What's up with Tennessee? Are they aware that this is basketball? William G. -- Lexington, KY

William (or may I call you Bill, or Billy, or Mac or Buddy? – Sorry, a catchy Sheryl Crow song suddenly came to mind),

Anyway, Yeah…how bout the state of hoops in the state of Tennessee? Just like you when I think Tennessee, I think football, or if I do think basketball…I think Pat Summit. SEC hoops is normally reserved for your boys in blue from the Bluegrass state, but Bruce Pearl has really got his team playing well (despite the hideous orange unis) and they are all alone atop the SEC. Likewise, we all know about Calipari’s undefeated Wildcats and how they are blowing up their conference.

Everyone in the nation is looking forward to the #1 vs #2 showdown to see who is tops in rockytop, and that obviously includes those of you in Kentucky.

I’ll say this Kentucky fans- you still have bragging rights over Tennessee from your game against the Vols in January, but your better enjoy that while you can because Tennessee will be out for blood on the rematch March 2nd. Until then…I suggest you just sit back, relax, and have a little fun watching the phenomenon that is Tennessee hoops this year.

Come on, sing it with me….”All I wanna do is have some fun. I got a feeling, I’m not the only one...”


3. This may have been mentioned already, but was it really a good idea for UMKC to change coaches? Tim B -- '08

Tim,
In a single word….No.

True, Last year’s head coach, Rich Zvosec didn’t have a stellar season at 12-20, but he was a decent coach that has experienced success and I thought he had a passionate coaching style, not to mention he was a fan favorite. Plus, he did those sweet commercials with a big kangaroo that aired late at night.

Not to bag on new head man Matt Brown, but he’s currently sitting at 9-18 overall, with a 4-10 record in the league. Not exactly a step up for the UMKC basketball program so far.

Now, there is good news since the Kangaroos like coaching changes. Indiana coach Kelvin Sampson should be available any day now once the University cuts him loose. If your curious about the public opinion on the topic, check out this interesting website: http://www.firecoachsampson.com/

Once the inevitable happens, I think UMKC has a great shot at landing him if they are willing to do just a couple small things.

1) Get a good long distance phone plan (Kelvin is on a lot of calls). Also make sure you have conferencing capabilities. Look into Sprint. KC is their headquarters, you might get a deal.
2) Buy a lot of gift cards to the Gap. It’s kind of a secret, but rumor has it Kelvin really likes Denim shirts.

Go get em 'Roos!