Game Day

The Umass basketball team is down in Charlotte playing the 49ers in an A10 battle.  Both teams stand at 4-2 in the conference and are looking for that extra push to put them on top of the standings.  The Minutemen are coming off a huge win at La Salle (a last second shot by Chaz Williams to win by 1), and are ready for their next meal.  For the betting purpose of this blog, the Minutemen are dogs by 1.5 points.  The line opened at +1 and have been pushed to +1.5.  I don't think this line matters though, because in my opinion the minutemen will win straight up.  Umass played their best game of the year against La Salle and are 6-1 on the road.  Why stop there?



For Umass to win, this is what needs to happen:

1) Terrell Vinson needs to stay out of foul trouble and play big minutes on the floor.  TV is great down low and can knock down shots from the perimeter as well.  He can't do either if he 3 fouls in the first 10 minutes of the game.

2) Chaz needs to control the tempo of the game, he needs to find the players on the floor for the open shot and pick up his assists.  He averages 7.2 a game and if he can continue with this production, I don't see them losing.  Also, Chaz can't pick up stupid fouls.

3) Raphiael Putney needs to stay hot.  He scored 17 against La Salle and is averaging 13 in his last three games.  Putt needs to take his shots, and not force any stupid ones, knock down a few threes and score double digits.

4) Cady Lalanne needs to play strong minutes and grab some offensive boards.  He is averaging 9.3 rebounds in the last 6 games.  Look for Cady to get a double-double in todays game.

5) Maxie Esho will be coming off the bench, but is one of the most athletic players on the team.  He is a high energy player and can make big plays when needed.  Look for Maxie to play his game and come out with 9 points and 6 rebounds.

6) Freddie Riley:  As of late, Freddie has been one of the teams best defenders.  Locking up the opposing teams best shooter and playing close to the full 40 minutes.  And did I mention that he can shoot?  Riley is averaging 10.7 points in his last ten games and a total of 25 three pointers.  If Freddie can stay on the floor and continue to be a menace on D and knock down shots, he will be the game changer.  We will call this the Freddie Factor.

As a team though, Umass need to force turnovers, hit their free throws, and come to play.  The Minutemen NEED to play with the lead and hold it.  They need to keep the pressure on Charlotte the entire game, and this means after half time.  If the Minutemen come out after half and play with energy and hit shots, they should win with ease.

P.S. Umass is known for two things, ill-advised lobs and construction.  And since the team is away, I don't think you'll be seeing construction.