But here is what Greg Kampe said:

“They just outplayed us,” Oakland coach Greg Kampe said. “[They] out hustled us, played harder, out coached us. [They] out everythinged us.”

Greg Kampe is a pretty good coach too.

I think their lack of depth ended up hurting them in the end. Did Felder or Petros ever come out? I don't believe they did. Chasing around Talley, Lee, and Alvano for 40 minutes is a lot to ask. As is having three different centers being thrown at you, in the case of Petros. After they took that 6 point lead midway through the second half, we turned it up again and never looked back. I was impressed by that.

Lots of work to do defensively, but this was a very encouraging win for a team that is still getting used to each other.

I think people overlook the fact that Riley played in the zone for two years before ever arriving at EMU. The zone might not be its tightest right now, but if we know one thing about Murphy, we know that it will be tight very soon.

(11-18-2014 07:51 AM)EagleSam Wrote:  I think their lack of depth ended up hurting them in the end. Did Felder or Petros ever come out? I don't believe they did. Chasing around Talley, Lee, and Alvano for 40 minutes is a lot to ask. As is having three different centers being thrown at you, in the case of Petros. After they took that 6 point lead midway through the second half, we turned it up again and never looked back. I was impressed by that.

Lots of work to do defensively, but this was a very encouraging win for a team that is still getting used to each other.

Petros came out a few times, Kampe was not happy with his effort. I could elaborate with some explicit language but won't.

There is no doubt this it Mike Talley's team to lead, Alvano will get good minutes this year and great experience for the future. Him and Bond will lead the future beyond 2014/15.

I was impressed with the way Lee has matured. His shot selection is improved, I loved seeing him make the extra pass on the offensive end. The most important part of his game that has improved is his effort on the defensive end, hands were always up and he was swarming around the ball. This will keep him on the floor in Murphy's system which will obviously increase his offensive production.

Price looks to be the definition of a streaky shooter, can knock down 2 quick ones and then miss 3 in a row. Love his quick release, but he needs some better shot selection which will come with time, considering he hasn't played in over a year. Murph was not happy with the 3-point attempt late as we were milking out the clock.

Lekan is improving on the defensive end and rebounding. Needs to continue to keep his hands up to avoid foul trouble. But there is no lack of effort or intensity on his part. Also knocked down two big free throws late after missing earlier.

You can see that Okoloji has experience in big games as he was a floor leader throughout, vocal throughout the game. Has a very athletic skill set and a smooth jumper.

Karrington Ward- don't need to elaborate on him. I'll just say if he were here for a full four years he would come close to breaking the EMU scoring record. What I love is that he never seems to force his offense, he's takes what they give him and makes them pay if he's left open.

Samuels and Hunter add huge huge depth. More offensive ability that Mo Hughley as well. As long as they stay out of foul trouble they will be great help on the defensive end in the middle of the zone.

Nazione played limited minutes but I see his athleticism and grit helping on both sides. I want to see him throw down a dunk.

Was nice to see GB3 and Strickland back in the house watching the game.

Excellent comments.

Yes, this is Talley's team. I assume (and that is the word) that Murphy wants Talley to observe the game and then come in and make things happen.

I just want to make a comment or two about the future:

As you indicated, Bond and Alvano will man the point in 2015/16. Lee and Price SG next season. Ajayi and Samuels at center.

We only would have a few forward, e.g., Nazione, Nobles, and maybe Price (assuming SF) returning next year.

Murphy needs two (or three) forwards + a frosh center in his recruiting class. One of the forwards should be a JUCO or graduate eligible transfer (or one of each).

(11-18-2014 07:51 AM)EagleSam Wrote:  I think their lack of depth ended up hurting them in the end. Did Felder or Petros ever come out? I don't believe they did. Chasing around Talley, Lee, and Alvano for 40 minutes is a lot to ask. As is having three different centers being thrown at you, in the case of Petros. After they took that 6 point lead midway through the second half, we turned it up again and never looked back. I was impressed by that.

Lots of work to do defensively, but this was a very encouraging win for a team that is still getting used to each other.

We will beat some teams based on our depth.

Some teams play seven. We can easily go 10.

I also agree on the defense. Doesn't look like a veteran Murphy team yet. New guys are learning the system.

Eagle king, I enjoyed your comments. But I also felt Ajavi's play in the second half was solid. He positioned himself very well defensively, focused hard on actually pulling down the rebound, and actually had a couple offensive plays. This might have been a fluke, but if it is a sign of development, we need not worry so much of a drop off after Riley.

As for GB3, I am disappointed to see him at the game. Thought he would be playing somewhere at some level. He was underutilized when he was at EMU, and I think has the capability of at least playing pro in the European leagues.

He was playing in Montenegro or something for a while. I guess that fell through.

I overheard Glenn talking to some fans. He came back for two weeks. Not sure if his team is in the off-season, but he's heading back to Europe soon enough.

That is good to hear