Badger Coaches: Please Sign Here...

Wisconsin winter sports appears to be locked down for the next five years as three of the five coaches extended will be around until 2015.

Anybody saying that it may be time for Bo Ryan to leave Wisconsin may have to wait a little bit longer. Ryan is among the coaches that have been signed through the 2014-2015 season.

Joining Ryan is women's coach Lisa Stone who led the Badgers to a 21-11 record this season. Many may remember that there were rumors of Stone's possible departure from the program in the past, but those rumors are now an afterthought.

The University of Wisconsin has also granted a contract extension to men's hockey coach Mike Eaves after his group of Badgers came up just short of a national championship this past season. Retaining Eaves could be pivotal in keeping the nucleus of a group that has lost seven seniors, two underclassmen, and two assistant coaches already this offseason.

The other two coaches that have been granted extensions are wrestling coach Barry Davis, and swimming coach Eric Hansen who have both been signed through 2013.

UW and Brust Win Appeal

Ben Brust can now transfer to another Big Ten school after UW and Brust win appeal to the conference faculty committee.

Brust, who signed his national letter of intent to play at Iowa, will now be able to transfer to another Big Ten school after being waived from a conference rule that would bar him from receiving a scholarship.

Following the vote by the 11-member committee, Brust may now transfer to any Big Ten school. The waiving of the rule does not necessarily mean that Brust will become a Badger.

Upon being released from his commitment to Iowa, Brust has been contacted by over two dozen schools to transfer. Wisconsin being one of them but two other Big Ten universities also remain in the race.

Wisconsin could be considered a favorite after UW opened the appeal on the behalf of Brust to the Big Ten faculty committee earlier this week. The Badgers also have an available spot in the 2010 freshman class after the departure of Ian Markolf after last season.

Brust will now have until May 19th to make a decision before the late signing day to become part of the 2010 freshman class.

Wisconsin Hockey: Too Many Men "Off" the Ice

Mike Eaves is beginning to look like he may be the only recognizable face in the team photo next season, after two more Badgers bolt.

As expected coming in to the offseason Wisconsin has lost seven seniors, and will now lose two underclassmen as well. Both Brendan Smith and Cody Goloubef have left the program for the NHL.

Smith announced Thursday that he will sign with the Detriot Red Wings. The Red Wings selected the now former Badger defenseman in the first round of the 2007 entry draft.

The Columbus Blue Jackets have also signed a now former Badger in Goloubef, who announced on Thursday that he signed with the team. The Blue Jackets drafted Goloubef in 2008 entry draft in the second round.

The departures of Smith and Goloubef mark what has been a long offseason for the Badgers. Following the two most recent departures, the Badgers have lost two assistant coaches, seven seniors, and now two underclassmen.

Looks like Eaves may need a bigger smile in next years photo....

Bo's Offseason Recruiting Drama

The drama continues for the Wisconsin men's basketball team when it comes to recruiting this offseason.

One of the first problems facing the Badger coaching staff is what to do with the Ben Brust situation. Brust was denied by the Big Ten his appeal to transfer to Wisconsin with a scholarship after Iowa fired head coach Todd Lickliter. Wisconsin is now appealing to the Big Ten commission of faculty executives that will reach a decision later this week before making a decision in the Brust case.

If the appeal is granted for Brust he can then transfer to another school within the conference and remain on scholarship with the school. There are two other Big Ten schools also looking to bring Brust into their program.

The other recruiting problem is the re-opening of recruitment for a one time member of the 2011 Wisconsin freshman class. Devon Hodges a junior forward from Bollingbrook, Ill. has decided to withdraw his verbal commitment to UW leaving one spot open in the recruiting class.

There is no word at this point if Hodges will come back to Wisconsin after a period of time, but Wisconsin could use the spot to seek out a few highly recruited prospects in Wisconsin.

Badger Women Finish Fourth in Big Ten Championships

The Badger women's golf team finished fourth in the Big Ten Golf Championships on their home course.

University Ridge was the host of the tournament, and despite being Wisconsin's home course the Lady Badgers could only mount a fourth place finish. Oddly enough it was Wisconsin's number four golfer who scored the best in the four day tournament.

Carly Werwie scored a team low +8 in the tournament which was good enough for a tie for 7th overall. The next Badger in line was Wisconsin number one Molly Schemm who scored a +14. The Lady Badgers as a team scored +42 on the weekend, while the champion Purdue Boilermakers shot +6 for the weekend as a team.

The Boilermaker's top four players all finished in the top 10 for the tournament. Purdue also featured the number one individual player Laura Gonzalez who shot -8 for the weekend.

In between the Badgers and Boilermakers were Ohio State (#2) and Michigan State (#3). The Buckeyes as a team shot +33 and the Spartans shot +37 as a team. Putting a difference between first and second in the tournament as a team to an enormous 27 shots, and a difference individual score of only three shots.

Michigan's Ashley Bauer, who finished second individually, shot -5 for the weekend while the rest of the Wolverines managed +75 for the tournament.

So needless to say, despite Wisconsin being the host school, the Purdue Boilermakers took the make yourself at home offer way to seriously.

WKOW: McFadden to Workout With Redskins and Vikings

WKOW is reporting that former Wisconsin linebacker Jaevery McFadden will workout with the Washington Redskins, and Minnesota Vikings in the coming weeks.

McFadden, who was one of two Badgers not drafted this past weekend, will now head into the free-agent market. Former Badger Chris Maragos has already agreed to a deal with San Fransisco already, but McFadden has not agreed to any deal at this time.

There were rumors that McFadden could be drafted in the late rounds, but rumors failed to become fact. Right now, there is no word as to whether or not McFadden will workout for any other NFL teams.

For more on the story visit WKOW's website.

Video of the Week: Drop the Puck!

In case you missed it during the Chicago Blackhawks/Nashville Predators playoff game this past weekend you missed one of the funniest moments in NHL hisotry when Blackhawks goalie Antii Niemi tries to take home a free piece of rubber.

For this week's Video of the Week I give you the new locker room game...hide the puck...

Come on Niemi..."Drop the Puck!

New Faces in the NFL

Just in case you've been on the moon for the past week...the NFL draft was this weekend, and three new Badgers are now part of the NFL.

Both O'Brien Schofield and Garrett Graham were selected in the fourth round of the draft on Saturday. Graham was the first to be selected on day three by the Houston Texans, and Schofield was selected later in the fourth round by the Arizona Cardinals.

Graham will be joining perhaps the deepest group of tight ends in the NFL in Houston, and a joining former Badger, Owen Daniels, who is already part of the Texans franchise. Daniels who graduated in 2005 was a senior at the same time that Graham was being redshirted.

Schofield was perhaps the biggest surprise of the draft...at least in terms of the Wisconsin Badgers that were selected. Schofield who suffered a knee injury during Senior Bowl practice had many questions surrounding him about being drafted becasue of the injury, but the Cardinals apparently chose to roll the dice.

The Cardinals took the gamble becasue they felt he was a first round talent that fell to them because of the injury. Schofield still expects to be ready to play in 2010, and will start running in the coming weeks. He will reportedly start the season on the physically unable to perform list, and will reportedly take an extra six weeks to be ready to play.

The other Badger that will now be strapping on the helmet at the next level is Chris Maragos who was not drafted, but signed a deal with the San Fransisco 49ers.

On the last day of the draft a commentators on ESPN talked about whether or not it would be better to be drafted inthe final round or go into the free-agent market. Ron Jaworski cited the success of Tony Romo who went undrafted and was later signed by Dallas Cowboys...and we all know how that story ended up.

Maragos was also considering becoming a Cowboy but chose to go to San Fransisco. He will head to San Fransisco this Thursday for the rookie mini-camp and officially sign with the 49ers.

The only Badger that was not drafted and is yet to sign a free-agent deal is Jaevery McFadden. There is no word yet when McFadden will sign a deal or with whom that deal could be with, but it is expected that McFadden will sign with a team in the coming days and weeks.

From Badger to Buckeye

While the offesason hirings have not been kind to the Wisconsuin basketball assistant coaches, but the same can not be said for the men's hockey program.

Wisconsin knew in advance that they would be losing assistant coach Kevin Patrick; who is now the coach of the USHL expansion franchise in Muskegon, Mich. But now they are losing yet another assistant coach, but this time to a familiar Big Ten rival.

Ohio State, who does not play in the same conference as the Badgers in hockey, has hired now former Wisconsin assistant Mark Osiecki as their new bench boss. Osiecki had been an assistant for Mike Eaves for the past six years, but he was a Badger long before Eaves was the head coach in Madison.

Osiecki won a national title with Wisconsin back in 1990 as a defenseman. After college Osiecki played six seasons in the NHL with the Calgary Flames, Minnesota North Stars, Ottawa Senators, and the Winnepeg Jets. After his professional career Osiecki went on to coach at both the junior level, and was the coach and general manager of the Green Bay Gamblers.

Eaves will now not only have to replace seven seniors from this past year's team, but also two gaping holes on the bench beside him.

More Bad News for Wisconsin Assistants

Yet another Badger basketball assistant coach is denied. This time it is Gary Close's turn.

Cornell has announced that Bill Courtney, a now former assistant at Virginia Tech, has been hired to become the new head basketball coach.

Close was one of the three finalists for the job, but will now most likely return to the Badger bench as an assistant for another year. He joins other Badger basketball assistants Greg Gard, men's basketball, and Kathi Bennet, women's basketball, in the club of Wisconsin assistants to be finalists for head coaching jobs. Niether Gard or Bennett were hired for head coaching posititions.

Bill Courtney will replace Steve Donahue as head coach at Cornell after Donahue departed for the Boston College job.

Yet again...the job hunt continues...

Bucky's Bubble Bursts Over Brust

A possible addition to the 2010 freshman class for the Wisconsin men's basketball team has been denied by the Big Ten to commit to Wisconsin after originally committing to Iowa.

Ben Brust of Mundelein Ill. has been denied his request to transfer to the University of Wisconsin because of a rule that bans players from transferring between Big Ten schools and still be able to recieve a scholarship. Brust wanted to transfer to Wisconsin after Todd Lickliter was fired as Iowa head coach.

Because Brust had not officially enrolled in school at Iowa he wanted to be allowed to transfer to Wisconsin. The Big Ten denied the appeal for the rule to be waived because of the termination of Lickliter at Iowa.

Brust can still transfer to the University of Wisconsin, but he will have to do it as a non-scholarship athlete. After the departure of Ian Markolf from the Badgers, Brust could have been a candidate to fill the vacant spot and become part of the Wisconsin 2010 recruiting class before the spring signing deadline.

Geoffrion Out for Game Six

Blake Geoffrion is out for game six against the Chicago Wolves in the Calder Cup Playoffs.

The former Badger center and team captain who injured his ankle on Monday night against the Wolves will not play on Friday night.

According to Geoffrion's twitter page the ankle is getting better, but he will not be playing. Geoffrion has had a quick start to his professional career with two goals in the Milwaukee Admirals 6-0 win over the Wolves in game three.

Geoffrion suffered the injury while chasing a puck into the corner, when Wolves defenseman Nathan Oystrick hit Geoffrion. The former Badger captains skate appeared to stick in the ice; resulting in a sprained ankle.

The Admirals released after the injury that it was not serious, and that he would be reevaluated if the series was extended to a game six.

It appears now that Geoffrion may need a game seven.

Bennett Snubbed Again

Unlike her brother, Tony, Kathi Bennet is still looking for her next big opportunity on the sidelines.

Bennett who is now an assistant coach for the Wisconsin women's basketball team, is snubbed again for a head coaching job. The former Indiana head coach, and daughter of Dick Bennett, has not been a head coach since leaving Indiana in 2005.

Perhaps the most memorable moment in Big Ten women's basketball history is the moment Bennett shared with her team at Indiana in 2002. Bennett who was involved in a car crash in February of 2002 coached her Lady Hoosiers to the Big Ten Tournament Championship still in a halo for her neck injuries.

Just a couple years later Bennett left Indiana in 2005 because of the effects of the injuries from the car accident, but she wasn't completely done coaching just yet. In 2008, Wisconsin women's head coach Lisa Stone brought in Bennett and offered her a job as an assistant in Madison. Bennett took the job, and hasn't looked back.

Since Bennett joined the Badgers in 2008, the Wisconsin women have went 40-26 overall.

But Bennett has yet again come just a little short when it comes to becoming the big boss again. Earlier this off-season Indiana State turned down Bennett for their head coaching job. Wednesday, Bennett was denied yet again. This time by Wright State, who hired now former Morehead State head coach Mike Brandbury.

The hunt continues...

Glover Officially Gone

Jeremy Glover, who was kicked off the Wisconsin men's basketball team last fall, is now offically out.

The former walk-on guard was hoping to be reinstated by the program throughout this last season, but now has left school at the University of Wisconsin. Glover is transferring to Presbytarian College in South Carolina.

Many may remember Glover as one of the Wisconsin basketball players dismissed from the team in September. Glover and fellow freshman guard Diamond Taylor were arrested for burlarizing several dorm rooms, charges both players plead guilty too.

Taylor transferred to Southern Illinois, and is now part of the Salukis basketball team. Glover has no joined him in transferring to another school, and leaving the unversity.

96 No...68 Maybe

The Associated Press is reporting that the NCAA Division I Men's Basketball Committeehas released a proposal to expand the men's basketball tournament.

The expansion would be for 68 teams rather than the 96 teams that was being floated earlier this year. There has been no announcement to how the expansion will affect the bracket itself, but a first round by with a 68 team bracket would be almost impossible.

The proposal will now be viewed by the NCAA Board of Directors on April 29th. Any finalized expansion would need to be approved by the Board of Directors before it would become a reality.

The NCAA has also signed a new deal with CBS Sports for the next 14 years for the rights to broadcast the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament. Another aspect of the deal is the side with Turner Broadcasting System which will work with CBS in airing every game live across the networks channels. The deal will start in 2011 and will cost CBS and Turner Broadcasting more than $10.8 billion.

Video of the Week: Oh It's On!

Rain delays can at times offer some comic relief for players and fans. We've all seen videos of players going for a run around the bases and then sliding home face first...but the Western Kentucky/Florida Atlantic game offered something a little bit different.

For this week's Video of the Week I give you...You Got Served: Rain Delay

It's Game Time...Well One of Them

The game time for the Wisconsin Ohio State game has officially been set.

Bucky will take on the Buckeyes under the lights at Camp Randall this season. The game is scheduled to start at 6 p.m. on either ESPN or ESPN2.

This will be the second consecutive night game against Ohio State at Camp Randall. Many may remember the last Bucky versus Brutus night battle for the game, as well as the band being suspended. Wisconsin also lost 20-17 to Ohio State back in 2008.

The night game will mark the third straight year that Camp Randall has hosted a night game. Some may remember after the 2003 upset of Ohio State ESPN went on record saying that they would not hold another night game in Madison.

Not So Fast My Friends...

Wisconsin Athletic Director Barry Alvarez is denying that the Big Ten is on the "fast track" for expansion.

In a report from WKOW in Madison, Wis. the former coach turned athletic director saying that he is unaware that the expansion is picking up steam. Alvarez also said that the expansion may take a while to become a reality.

For the whole story check out WKOW's website.

Ending More Than Bucky's Season...

Cornell is possibly looking to end more than just Wisconsin's basketball season...they might be looking to take an assistant coach with them.

Wisconsin assistant men's basketball coach Gary Close is officially a candidate for the Cornell head coaching job. The Big Red lost their head coach Steve Donahue to Boston College after their season came to a close in a loss to Kentucky in the Sweet Sixteen.

Close has been with the Badgers since 2003 and is reportedly one of three finalists for the head coaching job. The other two candidates are Temple assistant coach Matt Langel, and Bill Courtney who is an assistant at Virginia Tech.

Hoopdirt.com is reporting that Close will interview the job later in the week.

Appleton Out of Madison

One of the top recruits from the 2009 draft class is no longer sporting the cardinal and white. Sophomore wide receiver Kraig Appleton is no longer a badger.

It was announced after the spring game that Appleton had left school and would not be returning to the team this fall. The fallout for Appleton at Wisconsin started when he was suspended indefinitely by Wisconsin head coach Bret Bielema in February.

Appleton and two other players were suspended indefinitely for violating team rules. The other two players, redshirt linebacker Nick Hill and redshirt defensive lineman Shelby Harris, have yet to be given a timetable as to when they can return to the team.

After the spring game Bielema said that the other two players will be evaluated in the next couple weeks to see if they had met the goals that Bielema had laid out for them to do.

But one of thing is for sure...the once highly praised Appleton is a badger no more.

Spring Game Wrap-Up

At times it wasn't pretty...and at times it looked just average.

The offense was perhaps the most unimpressive. A group that is expected to be the best Wisconsin has seen in years looked average at best at times. But there is one key fact to keep in mind...injuries.

On the offensive line the Badgers were missing key members of what should be the starting group. The star of the wide receivers was also missing in action. Nick Toon was out because of a concussion that occurred in practice a week earlier.

The most obvious hole on the offense was in the backfield. John Clay was again in shorts rather than pads on Saturday. The good news is that it was a Saturday that doesn't count.

There in lies the greatest part of the spring game...it doesn't matter after spring practice. As of right now Wisconsin's record in 2010 is still 0-0, and most of the players that were sitting out on Saturday will be back in September.

I say most because of Curt Phillips, who is out for the season with a knee injury. His backup Jon Budmayr at times struggled in the spring game, but almost every Badger fan will be hoping he keeps the clipboard in his hands this season, and not a football.

Regardless of how average the Badgers looked at times Badger fans still have a lot to look forward to next season. John Clay is going to be a Heisman contender. A lot of players that sat of the spring game will be on the field, and the offense will be hopefully as good as many fans expect.

The positive from the spring game is how the defense has improved, and gotten deeper. With players like Chris Borland and Mike Taylor sitting out because of past injuries, there were a lot of questions about the Wisconsin defense outside the front seven. But the secondary at times look to be much improved, and the defensive line looked as strong as they will be expected to be in September.

A lot can change from now and September 4th, and there is reasons to be optimistic as a badger fan. This is a team that will be more balanced on the offensive side of the ball, and will feature a running back that may be the best in the country. The defense looks to be better than last year, and will feature one of the best defensive linemen in the country in J.J. Watt, and a solid linebacking corp with Taylor and Borland.

Definitly a lot to look forward to come September.

Big Ten Expansion Picking Up Steam

The Chicago Tribune is reporting the the Big Ten has sped up the process for expansion from within the next year to with in the next three months.

The heads of Big Ten schools are reportedly at an Association of American Universities (AAU) meeting in Washington D.C. this weekend and a discussion about expansion is supposed happen on Sunday.

The Big Ten will reportedly look to expand by July 1 because that is when the new fiscal year will start for the Conference. And any school that is being considered should be notified after the first weekend in June after the chancellors of Big Ten schools meeting in Chicago.

After that meeting the schools in consideration will have a month to consider the move, and the Big Ten will notify the other conferences of the possible merger if they are affected.

There are also reports that the expansion could possibly go beyond just one team. The conference could also be looking to add at least three and possibly even five teams to the conference. There are no reports on whether non-football members, like Marquette in the Big East, could join the conference.

Over the past few years there has been a large number of teams that have been rumored to be looking to come to the Big Ten. Notre Dame is still the most common, but Texas, Iowa State, Missouri, Rutgers, Pittsburgh, and Syracuse also remain part of the discussion. There has been no announcement of the teams the conference will officially go after for expansion, but any announcement could be expect sometime in mid-June.

Bielema's Twitter: Injuries and Phillips

Badger head football coach revealed on his twitter page that Curt Phillips has had his surgery and a little insight to how the coach fews injuries.

The surgery that was needed for Phillips' injured knee has reportedly taken place. He will now start rehad on the knee that will take the remainder of the year. John Budmayr is still as of this time the backup to Scott Tolzien following spring practice.

Bielema also pointed to the injuries that have kept a large number of players, especially big name starters on offense and defense, off the field this spring.

"Today starts a long road to recovery that can be a long and often time[s] bumpy ride," said Beilema's twitter page, "Injuries are a side to this game that tests our kids' faith."

Movin' On Up...to Milwaukee?

Now former Badger Blake Geoffrion is moving on to the big leagues...but not the NHL quite yet. Geoffrion will be making is his professional debut tonight as an Admiral not a Predator.

The 2010 Hobey Baker Award winner will be taking a step out onto the ice tonight for the Milwaukee Admirals as they take on the Chicago Wolves in the AHL playoffs.

Geoffrion, a second round draft pick by the Nashive Predators in 2006, will be making his debut for the teams minor league club that is coincidently located in Milwaukee.

Because the NHL playoffs have already begun, Geoffrion was unable to make the playoff roster for the Predators, who also play in Chicago tonight against the Blackhawks.

Any Badger fans that already miss Geoffrion can catch up with him on Saturday when the Admirals host the Wolves at the Bradley Center in Milwaukee.

Gard Staying in Madison

Badger assistant Greg Gard is staying with the Wisconsin men's basketball team after not being hired as the head coach at UW-Green Bay.

The new head coach of the Pheonix will be Brian Wardle; who has been an assistant at UWGB for the past five years. Because of the hire Gard will return to the Badgers as associate head coach.

There were some that thought that he could possibly land the head coaching job in Green Bay after Wisconsin head coach Bo Ryan stumped for Gard.

This means that the coaching staff in Madison will remain intact heading into next season. Gard was the only key player on the staff that was possibly leaving for another job. Gard will possibly be out there again for a coaching job next season after the 2010-2011 basketball season concludes. I won't be to surprised to see Bo Ryan out there campaigning for Gard again next season.

Next Year's College Big Ten Basketball Rankings

Recruiting obviously makes all the difference in this day and age in college basketball, but the Big Ten has proved to be a conference where experience matters. So let's take a look at what the breakdown of the Big Ten next season should be.

1. Michigan State
There is nothing that should make you think that Michigan State won't be at the top again, or at least challenging for another Big Ten title. They are bringing back stars like Kalin Lucas and Korie Lucious. Draymond Green and Chris Allen are also expected to be back as well. Combine all of that experience with Tom Izzo and the Spartans should be at the top of the conference again, but that's not saying they won't have challengers.

2. Illinois
This could be a risky pick at this time. We don't yet know for sure if Demetri McCamey is going to enter the NBA draft. There have been some reports that he will test the waters without signing with an agent (very similar to Evan Turner). If McCamey goes the Illini could drop all the way to number six. They still return a solid core, but without their trigger-man, the Illini could be in serious trouble. Bruce Weber is bringing in a solid recruiting class, but whether or not they can jump right in remains to be seen.

3. Purdue
Robbie Hummel is the main reason for dropping Purdue all the way down to three. There are still a great deal we don't know about the injury to his knee. Injuries to the ACL can sometimes take years to recover fully from, and at times can take away from a players ability. Purdue will still be a better team with Hummel on the floor, but look for Hummel to be the indicator of how the Boilermakers perform on the court. Off the court a player like Chris Kramer is hard to replace; it will be interesting to see who steps up into the leader role, and the defensive role that Kramer has occupied the last couple of seasons.

4. Wisconsin
Losing players like Trevon Hughes and Jason Bohannon is going to be a big problem for the Badgers. But look for players like Rob Wilson and Ryan Evans to step in and fill the void next season. The plus for Wisconsin is the return of players like Jordan Taylor, Keaton Nankavil, and John Leuer. With three experienced players on the floor the transition for Wilson and Evans into a more prominent role should be smoother, and perhaps keep Wisconsin's tournament streak alive, and once again in the hunt for a Big Ten title. If McCamey decides to officially leave Illinois; look for Wisconsin to bump up to third or even take second, and compete with Michigan State for the title.

5. Ohio State
A big fall for the Buckeyes but they are suffering the biggest loss of any team in the conference this season. Evan Turner is definitely gone. Even though he is not signing with an agent right off the bat, Turner will most likely be playing in the NBA next season after being a lottery pick. Ohio State will be returning a lot of solid players, but as we saw when Turner was injured this season...the Buckeyes are a different team without him.

6. Minnesota
The Gophers are really the wild-card for next season. This past season they looked to be very good at times, and mediocre at others. They do lose prominent players of the past like Westbrook and Johnson, but they retain a solid group. If the Gophers can play like they did at the end of last season they could be a threat, but inconsistent play has been the tendency in the twin cities...so that's what we'll count on in 2010-2011.

7. Northwestern
Again a team that has plenty of upside, but is yet to show it on the big stage. The Wildcats missed out on the tournament again, but also played the entire season without their best player Kevin Coble, who is expected to be back next season after a medical red-shirt. Northwestern also returns Juice Thompson, John Shurna, and Drew Crawford for next season. The Wildcats could also be a team that scares some people next season. Don't be too surprised if they find their way up towards the top four and even the top two with the talent and experience they have returning next season.

8. Penn State
A team that at times couldn't buy a win this past season. Don't let the record fool you; Penn State is a good basketball team, and will challenge next season in the Big Ten. A team that at times took it's licks in conference last season, but it is all experience the Nittany Lions can use for next season as they are the only team in the conference that loses no one from last years team. Yes you heard that right...they lose nobody. Even Talor Battle will be back next season making Penn State a team to watch in 2010-2011.

9. Indiana
Yes I know everybody beat up on the Hoosiers last season, but they do have a lot returning; and a lot more than the teams below them have to work with. The talent may not be there for the most part right now but they also retain a lot of players coming into next season. With last season as a learning experience for the Hoosiers, I would expect them to be a little more competitive in 2010-2011.

10. Michigan
A team that had high hopes coming into this season, and now is left reeling. With the losses DeShawn Sims and Manny Harris look for the Wolverines to struggle next season. They do have a solid recruiting class coming in but the experience and scoring is not there. They lack a solid point guard, and need to rebuild the program with the recruits they have coming in. It could be a long time until we see Michigan back at the top in Big Ten basketball, and John Beilien may not survive.

11. Iowa
Last but not least is the Hawkeyes. A coaching change is perhaps the least of their problems. At times Cully Payne looked like the talent that he is, and at times like someone trying to do to much. They also lack talent in many areas on the court...especially down low. Size is one thing that Fran McCaffery can't teach, and it's one thing that will hurt the Hawkeyes in a conference that has plenty of it. This is a rebuilding year at Iowa, and I expect that it will take McCaffery a couple years to get the program back on track.

Keep in mind that there are many variables in predicting the outcomes of next season. Injuries are a big one, and not just the ones that we know about now. Hummel and Lucas will be back next season, but how much did they lose from significant injuries. Another key variable is McCamey. Remember if he leaves, get ready to watch the Illini drop off a cliff and fine their way down the to the middle of the pack and as far as seventh.

There is a lot to look forward to next season in the Big Ten and I expect the conference to be even deeper than it was this past season. We may not have a three way tie for the title, but their could be about seven or eight teams all in a bunch come next March.

Another Polar Bear in NBA

The second part of the polar bear combo from 2008 season is now in the NBA. Greg Stiemsma has signed with the Minnesota Timberwolves.

The deal is for the remainder of the 2009-2010 season, which will only last for one more game for the Timberwolves, and the 2010-2011 season. Because of team policy the details of the contract were not released.

Stiemsma has been playing in the NBA Developmental League, or D-League, this season for the Sioux Falls Skyforce. In 45 games this season Siemsma has averaged just over 8 points per game, but almost 4 blocks per game as well; leading the D-League in that category.

In the D-League playoffs Stiemsma averaged a double-double with 15 points, and 10 rebounds per game.

He joins four other former Badgers who are know playing in the NBA: Brian Butch (Denver), Devin Harris (New Jersey), Michael Finley (Boston), and Marcus Landry (Boston).

This Can't Wait a Week

I know the video of the week is already out but I couldn't wait to put out the next one.

I present to you...Shaq singing Fire & Desire by Rick James (and yes that's a wig).

Who Knew a 11 Year Old Could Do So Much Damage?

This week's video of the week: The Demolition of Texas Stadium.

Hughes Wins Portsmouth Title

Now former Wisconsin guard Trevon Hughes led his team to the Portsmouth tournament title this past weekend.


The tournament is an invitational for the 64 best seniors in college basketball. The teams play in front of NBA scouts, and management.

Hughes led his team to the title with a game high 21 points. Sixteen of Hughes' 21 points came in the second half as his K&D Rounds Landscaping team overcame a five point deficit in the second half to win the title.

Trevon Hughes also overcame a familiar foe in the championship. Outscoring former Michigan State Spartan Raymar Morgan and tournament M.V.P. Jerome Randal from Cal.

Hughes also pulled down seven rebounds, made an assist, and had one steal in the 86 - 78 win.

Boston College Rolls Bucky

After the first two periods it looked like deja vu all over again. Wisconsin trailing Boston College 1-0 heading into the third period, but unlike 2006 Bucky would not come back to win.

The Eagles would knock in four more goals in the third period to take home the national title. Their second national title in just the last three years.

The experience factor may have been the difference in this game for BC. Almost their entire team had been there before, and their goalie proved again to be a rock in the postseason. Boston College net-minder John Muse has played in eight games in the NCAA tournament...he has won all of them; leading BC to a national title in 2008 as a freshman.

It wasn't just his goaltending that locked up the national title for the Eagles, it was the rest of the team's defense. The Badgers only managed 20 shots on goal against Boston College on Sunday. A small number compaired to the 37 shots by the Badgers against RIT.

Defense proved to be the difference for the Eagles. Wisconsin came into the national championship as the top scoring team in the NCAA with 171 goals this season. While Wisconsin goaltender Scott Gudmandson saved 21 shots, one more than Muse, three found the back of the net (one was empty net).

Wisconsin was not without it's own opportunities, but the Badgers were unable to cash in. In the second period Michael Davies while on a break-away had the puck bounce over his stick. At the time the Eagles lead was just one goal, and a goal by Davies could have perhaps made it a different outcome for Wisconsin.

Boston College looked to be the more opportunistic of the two teams. Charging the net, making shots, and playing hard defense. Not saying that Wisconsin didn't play like with intensity, but the Eagles played with more. They had the experience where it mattered, they got the breaks, and they made the plays. Add all of that up and you get one thing...a national champion.

Geoffrion Holds Hobey

For the first time ever a member of the Wisconsin men's hockey team is officially the best in college hockey. Despite six national championships, and the many great players that played for Wisconsin, Blake Geoffrion is the first Badger to win the Hobey Baker Award.

The highlight of the presentation was not Geoffrion though; it was his mother. After winning the award Geoffrion's mother told a story about how he wanted to be a cowboy when he grew up. He even road around on a stick horse when he was young.

But besides all of that it was history for the Wisconsin program. With all of the great players that have played in Madison, Geoffrion is now the only player to win the Hobey Baker. An accomplishment that has surpassed many badgers in the past.

Geoffrion's season is definitly one that deserved the Hobey Baker. Coming in second nationally in goals, and first in power play goals, but leadership was most likely his greatest asset.

One of the team's three captains this year Geoffrion was a team leader on the ice and off of it. On the ice Geoffrion was Wisconsin's MVP this season. Leading the team in goals this season, Geoffrion averaged over a point per game.

To say Geoffrion was the best to ever play at Wisconsin may be a stretch right now. With alumni all over hockey, and the NHL, Wisconsin has had a hockey tradition that rivals the best in college hockey. But for just one year, Blake Geoffrion is the best, and the one holding hockey's Heisman.

Bielema Kicks Special Teams Around

Wisconsin head coach Bret Bielema is spreading the special teams duties around. With four of his assistants at one time being special teams coordinators, Bielema is giving all four them a piece of the special teams pie.

For most of Bret Bielema's tenure as Wisconsin head coach, he has handled the bulk of the responsibility of the special teams. After last season Bielema said that he no longer wants to be responsible for the special teams unit.

Rather than hiring one coach, or appointing one from the staff, to head up the special teams he will instead use four coaches. Coaches Charlie Partridge, Greg Jackson, Joe Rudolph, and Chris Ash will now be the coaches in charge.

Each of the coaches will take a particular part of the special teams to coach. They will be broken off into punt team, kickoff coverage, kickoff return, and punt return.

Bielema was qutoed by madison.com that he takes responsibility for all positions.

"I'm a coach on every unit," Bielema said to madison.com,"It'll be more of a support role, but I have a lot of experience, too."

Spring Game Goals

According to head coach Bret Bielema's twitter the goal of the spring game will be to test players in game situations.

The team will seak to give a live environment with real-game scenarios, in search of seeing how the younger players. With the injuries at key positions keeping the more experienced, and most likely starters, on the sidelines; the Badgers will be focusing on preparing the inexperienced players for possible game scenarios.

This is key because of the possibility of the same players being put on the field during real games because of injuries. A good player to watch on Saturday will be quarterback Jon Budmayr. Because of the injury to Curt Phillips, for the first time Budmayr will be the back-up quarterback, and just one play away from being the starter.

Other key players to watch will be the running backs and the offensive lines. Injuries last year took a toll on the Wisconsin offensive line throughout the season. The running backs will also be important to watch because they will be called on to give John Clay a breather during games this season. Both Montee Ball and Zach Brown played limited rolls last season, compared to John Clay, but just like Budmayr they too will be just one play away from being the new starter.

Bucky Cruises...So Does BC

The fact that Wisconsin cruised to the national championship game with an 8 to 1 win over RIT, may not have been a huge surprise to many. Boston College's 7 to 1 win over Miami(OH) could be labeled unbelievable.

The Redhawks of Miami(OH) have spent the entire season as one of the top teams in the country, and for the most part the mainstay at number one. In a game that many in the hockey world thought would be a close battle; the Redhawks appeared to be totally out matched.

After the Redhawks climbed back within two, Boston College finished them off with four consecutive goals. Is there anything to be worried about as a Badger fan? Possibly.

Wisconsin's win over RIT was very impressive to say the least, but RIT is not the same team as Miami(OH). RIT featured no NHL draft picks on it's roster; Miami(OH) has two. RIT has no scholarship athletes...Miami does. Not taking anything away from RIT.

They had a great season, and they earned a lot of respect on the way to their first Frozen Four. They beat two power-house programs in Denver, and New Hampshire, but Miami is quite possibly the better team.

Both teams suffered their worst losses of the season, or at least tied them, in the Frozen Four this year. Regardless of talent both teams are great teams, but who is the better team?

Bot the teams should come into the championship game full of confidence. But the only thing that really matters now is the better team on Saturday. It will be either Wisconsin or it will be Boston College.

2nd Intermission Report

It seems this one may be in hand. With Wisconsin winning 6 to 1 after the second period, Mike Eaves is being put in a peculiar position.

If the game is indeed in hand then what should Mike Eaves do about the tempo of the game. Should he keep up the tempo and push it all the way home. Or does he slow it down to avoid embarrassing RIT at the risk of slowing the team down too much before the championship game.

Even with a lot of tape out there for either Miami(OH) or Boston College; do you slow it down to avoid showing them anything more since the game is in hand. On the other side do you continue to pound away to look to intimidate your future opponent.

These are the questions that will be answered in the final period. So far we have answered a lot of questions. How would the Badgers score on RIT's goalkeeper, DeMichael, who has been playing terrific hockey as of late. The answer: at will. The other question coming in to the period was a possible injury to Geoffrion in the first period; judging by the goal in the second period, I would venture to guess that everything appears fine.

Just one more period left until a birth in the national title game. But anybody that watches hockey knows one thing...it takes less than a second to score a goal. With twenty minutes left that leaves plenty of seconds.

1st Intermission Report

The Badgers came out fast against RIT in the first period. When I mean fast I mean outside the scoreboard as well.
RIT looks to be over-matched in terms of speed against the Badgers. Bucky is getting to loose pucks faster than the Tigers, and the breaks by RIT are quickly matched by Wisconsin.
The Badgers also looked to put the Tigers in a hole early in this one. In the first two minutes of the game John Mitchell put the Badgers ahead with a quick one. Then eight minutes later Derek Stepan tipped a Ryan McDonaugh shot in the net, and just like that Wisconsin takes a two goal lead into the locker room.
In terms of shots, the Badgers out-shot the Tigers 10 to 6 in the first period. Last week we pointed to the fact that Scott Gudmandson needed to be the key to Wisconsin's success and so far he has been that. The Wisconsin defense is also helping Gudmandson by blocking opportunities for the Tigers. Not to mention the power play that Wisconsin killed by not allowing RIT a single shot on goal.
Gudmandson's counterpart is, despite the score, making some great saves. In last weeks blog I said it would be imperative to keep RIT off the scoreboard because of their great goal-tending. So far, Wisconsin has done that and they have forced a goaltender that only gave up three goals in the first two rounds of the NCAA tournament to give up two in just one period.
Wisconsin in the second period will look to keep the pressure up on RIT, and look to add to the advantage. Another key aspect of the remainder of the game will be Blake Geoffrion who was seen limping off the ice towards the end of the period. The question of how he will respond, or how injured he is will be answered in the second period. If Wisconsin continues to play the way they have in the first period, they will be playing on Saturday.

Onion Sports Network: Calipari's Next Big Recruit

Kentucky Violated NCAA Rules While Recruiting Basketball-Playing Dog

And the Mass Exodus Begins...

It didn't take long, and now the 2010 NBA draft class is already taking shape. To no surprise to many in the sports world that it is filled with "kids" leaving Kentucky.

A Total of five Kentucky Wildcats are declaring for the draft. There were people saying that John Wall could possibly stick around in Lexington for another year, but that isn't going to happen. John Wall is just one of the five that are leaving this year. The other four includes only one upperclassman.

Besides John Wall, freshmen DeMarcus Cousins, Eric Bledsoe, and Daniel Orton are all leaving Kentucky after just one season in college. Junior Patrick Patterson is also packing his bags for the NBA.

While the number of players leaving Kentucky might not be a surprise to some; the fact that Evan Turner is leaving is not a surprise as well, but the fact that he is not taking an agent is a possible surprise.

Without signing with an agent it is completely possible that Turner could be back with Ohio State next season. If Turner decides he does not like where he is going in the NBA he can then return to college for his senior season. John Wall on the other hand has signed with an agent and is now ineligible to return to college basketball under and circumstances.

Turner may be the intelligent one of the bunch, but the most unintelligent of them all is John Calipari. Once again Calipari took a team stocked with stars and failed to bring home the big one, and once again he is left with those players leaving after the season. But this time Calipari, didn't just lose one...he lost five.

This raises the question about when should the NCAA should impose a minimum amount of time before a player can enter the NBA draft. In football the rule is set by the NFL, and states that a player must wait at least three years after graduating high school. The NCAA and NBA have worked to push the time back until one year after high school, but it appears not to be working. Now rather than having players skipping college all together we have players that get one free year of tuition and then bolt as soon as the season is over. Some of them do not even go to class in the second semester, and just work out.

There are certain things that will remain true until the system is changed. John Calipari will continue to bring in great one-and-done players to his program. Players will still just use the one year as a way to live off of the university, and get a good workout in. Lastly, until the day that someone points out what it is doing to the game of basketball...nothing will change.

Bielema's Twitter: Stirring the Echoes in Camp Randall?

Who knew Twitter could be so exciting? Badger head coach Bret Bielema is tweeting a possible series that could bring Notre Dame or Nebraska to Camp Randall.
As of right now the most likely of the two would be Notre Dame. But because of scheduling that takes the future schedules all the way out to 2017, there are limited spots. Wisconsin right now has a home opening for 2012, and an away opening for 2015. The possible Notre Dame or Nebraska series opening would look to fill those spots.
But the opportunity for Badger fans to see the Cornhuskers could be a ways out.
"That one might later than sooner," said Bielema on the "Lucas and Lepay Show" "because I believe in 2012 they already have a away game."
A possible series with the Fighting Irish is not out of the question just yet, but it is still at the level of discussion between the two programs.

Injuries: The Silver Lining in a Cloud of Gray?

We all know that injuries are bad. In an ideal world everybody would be healthy all the time, but could they be the silver lining for the Wisconsin football team?
Wisconsin this spring has already had a long list of injuries building up, but could this be a good time to work on improving the class below the starters? Right now Wisconsin running back John Clay is sitting, or standing on crutches, because of ankle surgery. Clay's ankles have been a problem since arriving on campus three years ago. Right now could be a good time to get more work in with the other running backs Monte Ball and Zach Brown. Clay is still expected to be ready by summer camp, and will most likely be the starter on the opening Saturday in Las Vegas.
The big eaters in front of him are also ailing from injuries right now. A total of three of Wisconsin's starting offensive linemen are sitting out due to injuries. Left tackle Gabe Carimi is now back with the team after missing out more than two weeks with a knee injury that was expected to keep him out all spring. Both Peter Konz and John Moffitt have reportedly yet to return to spring practice, and Konz is expected to miss the entire spring session.
Similar damage has been done to the linebacking corps. Mike Taylor was lost for the season in 2009 when he blew out his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). His sport was filled by Chris Borland, who played through a shoulder injury and is now sitting after having it corrected in the off-season.
But the linebacking corps is again showing why injuries, or repairing them, can be beneficial to the Wisconsin Badgers during spring practice. Because of the injuries, other players that would not have the opportunity to play with the first team in the regular season now have the opportunity to get work in and with more attention from the coaching staff. For example look at Kevin Rouse; who is now able to get more work in and show what he can do. Culmer St. James is expected the be the third starter for the linebacking corps, but now there is a competition starting for the last spot. You would think not that's good for St. James, but this is also creating another opportunity for him to improve, and improve he must if he wants to be the starter come next season; the competition is catching up.
There in lies that silver lining. The injuries right now are allowing players to get more work in, and more individualized work in with the coaches. We are seeing more of the younger players, and they are showing us more and more what they can do. It creates competition, and competition is good for the top of the depth chart too. The logic is pretty simple, if you want to keep your starting you role...you better step it up because those below you already are.
The only injury that is without a doubt a blow is the injury to Curt Phillips. Phillips, who suffered a knee injury in spring practice, will now miss the entire season. That means that one of the younger players has to step up and take the role. Jon Budmayr, a sophomore next season, now must be the back up to Scott Tolzien.
The truth of the matter is that injuries happen in the regular season. The younger players need to be ready to step in at a moments notice. Perhaps the injuries now are allowing them to simulate that, and get these guys ready to play in a nightmarish situation. Looking at the big picture, you would want everybody healthy all the time, but wouldn't you much rather see John Clay on crutches in April rather than October.

Four Years From the Last Frozen

It seems now like it was a long time ago, but it was only four years ago that Wisconsin brought home the Hardware in Milwaukee. A lot has changed in four years, but there is one thing that remains the same...Ben Street.
The Badger senior is the only thing besides Mike Eaves that remains in Madison. Street then a freshman on the team, is the only member of the 2006 national champions still donning the Badger red. But what happened to the others?
The last time anyone heard the name Joe Pavelski was in the Olympics. The former badger forward was a key member of the 2010 Silver Medal winning United States Olympic hockey team. What many may not know is that he is currently a member of the San Jose Sharks who currently are leading the NHL's Western Conference.
In a close second is another 2006 Badger, in fact the team captain, Adam Burish. Since leaving Madison, Burish has played his entire career in the Blackhawks system and the last two seasons primarily with the NHL club in Chicago. And Burish isn't the only former Badger still sporting red.
Jake Dowell has also been part of the Blackhawks organization but in a "minor" role...minor leagues that is. Dowell has played at the NHL level since leaving Madison, but only briefly. Three goals is all Dowell has scored in his short stays in the NHL, but he still remains close to Madison; just an hour away to be exact. Dowell is currently with the Blackhawks AHL affiliate in Rockford, Ill. Joining Dowell in Rockford is former Badger Jack Skille. Skille also played for a time with the Blackhawks as recently as this year, scoring just one goal in six games.
Only three more of the 2006 national champions are still playing hockey in the NHL. Brian Elliott, the former Wisconsin net-minder is currently playing in Ottawa. While Robbie Earl is currently playing for the Minnesota Wild, and Tom Gilbert is currently with the Edmonton Oilers. Most of the former badgers still skating around currently play in the AHL (Engel, Jourdrey, MacMurchy, and Piskula), and a pair of former teammates are currently playing in the ECHL (Brandt and Carlton), which is another minor league system.
The remaining Badgers have either left their playing careers behind or left the country to keep theirs going, and one tandem is a combination of both. Only two badgers are currently playing in Europe. Kyle Klubertanz is currently playing with a club in Sweeden, while Jeff Likens is playing Canada's grand old game in Germany. A total of five former Badgers are currently out of hockey (Gorowsky, Jeffery, Licari, Olinger, and Slinde). The last we heard of one of the Badgers that is currently out of hockey was Jeff Slinde. The tandem that was referred to earlier was Slinde and Klubertanz; we forgot to mention the cow.
In 2007, Slinde and Klubertanz were arrested for going "cow tipping." The cow in question wasn't a real cow though; it was a statue of a cow. The cow called "looking for Bucky" was just outside the Kohl Center during the "Parade of Cows." The duo of cow-tippers were given a $220 fine and 30 hours of community service. The cow has since been removed, probably by Klubertanz and Slinde, and it is highly unlikely that a stunt similar to that will be pulled by another duo of Badger teammates from this years team.
And that brings us back to where we started...with Ben Street. For the first time in over 20 years a Badger hockey player will have the opportunity to win his second national title. Street has already been able to do a couple of things twice in his career at Wisconsin. Win two outdoor games...check! Go to two Frozen Fours...check! Win two national championships? Check on Saturday.

Another Badger in Beantown

While it may not be news that he was part of the Boston franchise; it is news that he is now going to be officially a Celtic. Former Badger Marcus has been called up by the Boston Celtics from their D-League team in Maine.
Landry now joins former Badger Michael Finley on the roster in Boston. Finley who was signed by the Celtics in early March was actually the second Badger with the Celtics. Landry was traded to the Celtics from the New York Knicks in the trade for Nate Robinson that happened two weeks prior.
Landry since the trade has been playing for the Maine Red Claws and has been averaging just over 11 points per game and 4 rebounds per game. When playing in the NBA with the Knicks, Landry averaged just 2 points per game and 1 rebound per game.

Markolf Putting Student Ahead of Athlete

Wisconsin center Ian Markolf is leaving the Badger basketball team, but not for another school, rather to focus on his degree.
Markolf only a sophomore, is leaving to put more attention on receiving his degree in personal finance and investment. The now former Badger center received honors on the All-Big Ten academic team this year, and now will watch the Wisconsin Badgers from the stands rather than the court.
"I look forward to continuing our friendships, and being a Badger fan while a student at Wisconsin. I wish them the best of luck in the seasons to come," said Markolf.
The rest of the team will now have an extra scholarship to offer next season. Bo Ryan described Markolf as a great teammate on Tuesday.
"We wish Ian the best of luck and thank him for his hard work over the last two years," said Ryan.
Markolf only played in two games this past season, and a total of six in his career as a badger.

Polar Bear Spotted in Denver

No not a real polar bear; Wisconsin's former polar bear. Brian Butch has reportedly signed a deal with the Denver Nuggets to help sure up an already depleted low post.
Butch, who has been in the NBA Developmental League, or D-League, has been brought up by the Nuggets because of a rash of injuries to their big men. Kenyon Martin and Chris Anderson remain on the bench, and with the playoffs just down the road the Nuggets are looking to bulk up down low.
The full details of Butch's contract with the Nuggets has not been released, but it is reportedly for the remainder of the season. Though the contract is not guaranteed into the 2010-2011 season, Butch will have the opportunity to play for a permanent spot on the Nuggets or can be dealt to another team in a trade before next season.
The former Badger and McDonald's All-American, has been playing for the Bakerfield Jam in the D-League throughout the season, and was the D-League All-Star Game MVP. Butch has been averaging a double-double with the Jam, and now will become a role player to ,Denver hopes, help solve the Nuggets low post problems.

Bucky's Butler Connection

He's the man that has led the Wisconsin Marching Band for over 40 years, but he's also a proud Butler alum: he's Michael Leckrone.
The Wisconsin band director for now over 40 years, Michael Leckrone received both his bachelors degree, and masters degrees from Butler before recieving his PHD from Indiana. After earning his doctorate Leckrone returned to Butler to become band director, but only for three years. In 1969, Leckrone would become the band director at Wisconsin.
In Leckrone's tenure as Wisconsin's band director, the band has been to three rose bowls, been in a Budweiser commercial, and instituted the "fifth quarter." Not to mention the tradition of the spring concert was also created under Leckrone's tenure as band director.
The most current claim to fame is not one that anyone would look fondly upon for the marching band. In 2006, the marching band faced allegations of hazing while on a trip to Ann Arbor, Mich. The allegations led to people at the university calling for Leckrone's dismissal from Wisconsin, including the university chancellor, but Leckrone stayed.
The support for Leckrone was obvious at the next home football game. When John D. Wiley, then chancellor at UW, was announced he was given a resounding boo from the Wisconsin faithful. Just two years later, Leckrone was still the at UW, and Chancellor Wiley was no more.
The hazing allegations would again raise their ugly head at the marching band. In 2008, new allegations would cause Leckrone to take stern action; this time telling the entire band to hit the showers. For the first time in Leckrone's tenure, there would be a football Saturday without a marching band. A week later the band would return for the home game against Penn State.
While Wisconsin's reputation could have been tarnished by the hazing allegations; today they are just a memory. Leckrone handled the heat, and put out the fire. But what does the marching band have to do with Wisconsin sports? Everything.
When Leckrone came to Madison the football team was on a 22 game losing streak. At the time it was hard to get people in the stands, and the band kept them coming. Until the Barry Alverez era, the band was just as big of a draw to Camp Randall as the football team was. Leckrone's tenure is marked with both triumph and tragedy, but it is with out a doubt a major contribution to the Wisconsin athletic programs. So tonight, when Butler takes on Duke in the national championship game every badger fan should be pulling for the Bulldogs, and saying thank you for loaning Michael Leckrone to us for the past 40 years.

Doing It Right: The Path to the Final Four

Today's Final Four is not just the greatest event for the NCAA; it's the greatest point for what is right in sports.
Just look at the teams we have in the Final Four. Four teams that do it the right way. Four teams featuring four great coaches that have built their programs; rather than signing the next big star in the NBA year after year.
Duke is by far the perfect example of this. If you look at the Duke roster there should be one thing that stands out. They are old and experienced. Only three freshman on the team and only one of them sees "significant" playing time. Take a look at that then look at Kentucky; two freshman that will be gone to the NBA after just one season. While Duke has had a few one and done players they for the most part graduate their players. John Calipari has at least one every season.
Then you look at a team like Butler. They actually have a player worried about losing time to study for a math exam. When's the last time you think John Wall went to a math class?
Teams like Butler and Duke are true student athletes. They attend class, get good grades, and graduate. The same can be said for Michigan State. Love him or hate him, Tom Izzo is another coach that does it the right way. Izzo's program has always featured players that grew up in the program, and knew how to play basketball Izzo's way. This year the best example is Raymar Morgan, but the best example was Mateen Cleaves. As the star of the 2000 Spartans, Cleaves led a team of veterans to the national title. Then look at last year's team Suton, Walton, and Gray. None of them huge stars but all contributors to a team that got the national title game last year.
Lastly, the West Virginia Mountaineers. Bob Huggins has done perhaps his greatest coaching job in Morgantown, and he's doing it the right way. When Huggins went to WVU he didn't just go out and sign the kids that had the biggest headlines; he went and got kids that would fit his program. Huggins then took the players that were already there and built them up. Da'Sean Butler may be the best example of this. A player with a load of talent when Huggins got to West Virginia that has become one of the best players in college basketball. Then there's Joe Mazzula, a player that can barely lift his arms, that is leading his team to the Final Four.
Sure Huggins may have had a few players that were just using college as a stepping stone to the NBA, but most of them go to class, and graduate. Izzo could fall into the same group of coaches that bring in players that are destined to play at the next level, and you could even put Coach K in there with both of them. And Butler is just a solid program that has been built by players that just love to play basketball, and are good students too. Put all of these guys together and you see what is great about college basketball; coaches that teach, and players that learn; both in the classroom and on the court. And that is what college basketball is all about.

Jim Delany: Tournament Expansion "Probable"

So the fix is in! The NCAA Men's Basketball tournament is going to expand. Big Ten Commissioner Jim Delany is saying that the expansion will probably happen after the April 26th; when the NCAA Board of Directors have their meeting.
The problem is when is enough going to be enough. Below I've posted a video from Wisconsin's very own "The Onion" about the expansion; well the future expansion. But the video points out an important fact; when will we stop?
The problem is whatever the field is going to be...you will always have the team that thinks they got snubbed. You're going to have a team like Illinois who were just on the outside looking in. You're always going to have the team that people don't think should be there. Expanding the tournament will do nothing good for the tournament itself...except the pockets of the NCAA.
The NCAA Tournament is the number one revenue source for the NCAA every year. With the contract with CBS drawing to an end the NCAA must find a way to keep it going, and CBS wants more games plus more revenue.
If the NCAA expands the tournament though, where's the excitement? What happens to office pools? What happens to Cinderella? And what do conference championship tournaments really mean?
Conference tournament finals are perhaps one of the greatest events in college sports, and I'm not talking about the big ones like the Big Ten or the Big East. I'm talking about the small ones; the ones that really matter. You have a team playing in a real gym, not Conseco Fieldhouse. You have real fans, and students. And most importantly you have players that are playing for one thing to get to the NCAA Tournament. Where does all that go if the NCAA expands the tournament? Down the tubes.
There will be nothing special about those tournaments anymore. Those kids will be playing to be part of the best 96 teams out there. They may not even get to play one of the big boys, like a Duke or Kansas. They will have to play another game just to get to the next level. And what does this say about the "major" conferences.
It says that they are afraid of what is happening this year; Butler is in the Final Four. They are afraid of the next George Mason. They are just trying to lock up a bye week; to stick a wrench in the tires of the "mid-major" conferences.
Let's be honest here. There already is a tournament for the big boys to get their way into the NCAA Tournament; it's called the regular season. Teams that refuse to go out and play anyone in non-conference, Virginia Tech, or teams that stumble down the stretch, Illinois, will be left sitting on the sidelines. And that's where they belong.
The sad thing is that this will cheapen the tournament. People will tune out and the tournament will lose the magic of March Madness. Look at the tournament we're having this year, Butler is playing in the Final Four just seven miles from home. A school of less that 5,000 students with a shot at the national title. That's what makes March Madness great, not Jim Boeheim looking lock his job up until the end of time, and definitely not the NCAA trying to cash in on another big pay day.
Lastly if you want more proof that the tournament works just fine the way it is, just look at where Boeheim is right now; at home. Butler who knocked off his Syracuse squad is in the Final Four, and is the story of the tournament. I guess the expansion came too late this year Jim. Maybe next year you won't run into Butler, and it will be you in the Final Four. But God I hope not.

Onion Sports Network: Expanding the NCAA Tournament