Huskies season ends in heartbreak to Tar Heels 86-83 in round of 32

By Kshell

The Washington Huskies(24-11,11-7) season comes to a disappointing end to the second seeded North Carolina Tar Heels(28-7,14-2) 86-83. The Huskies had high hopes to begin the year which you can read here. There was talks of Final Fours and this being finally the year. Instead the Huskies fail to reach the sweet 16. The Huskies lost a close game to a tough opponent in which was basically a road game. The Huskies blew an 11 point lead and never trailed by more than two points until two minutes left in the game. Due to costly decision making down the stretch the Huskies season is over. The Tar Heels were led by Tyler Zeller who scored 23 points and Harrison Barnes who scored 22 points. The Huskies were led by freshman Terrence Ross who scored 19 points. The Huskies bench once again was the strength outscoring the Tar Heels bench 41-5 but the Tar Heels starters overcame that by scoring 81 points to the Huskies 42. In the end the season will be viewed as a disappointment to some fans while others are just happy to make the tournament. The Huskies played hard and came out on fire to start the game.

The first half was a high scoring run and gun half for both teams. The Huskies were trailing 15-14 went on a 12-0 run to lead 26-15 over the second seeded Tar Heels. The Tar Heels then responded to even take the lead. Both teams fought back and forth in the first half ultimately ending with the Huskies taking a 45-44 halftime lead over the Tar Heels. The Tar Heels were led Harrison Barnes who scored 14 points on 6-10 shooting including two three's. Tyler Zeller scored 12 points on four for eight shooting and was perfect from his four free throw attempts. The Tar Heels shot 16-36(44.4%) from the field and made three for eight three pointers. The Heels also shot 9-13(69.2%) from the foul line. The Huskies were actually out playing the Tar Heels most of the half.

For the Huskies they were led by freshman Terrence Ross. Ross who didn't score in his first tournament game came out with 12 points on four for five shooting including two three pointers. Matthew Bryan-Amaning scored eight points on four for eight shooting with seven rebounds. Darnell Gant scored six points hitting two three pointers. Isaiah Thomas slumped scoring just four points on two for eight shooting but had three assists. Aziz N'Diaye who was inserted back in the lineup dominated the glass. N'Diaye scored two points but grabbed eight rebounds. The Huskies shot 18-40(45.0%) from the field, 6-13(46.2%) from three point range and were perfect in their three free throws. The Huskies dominated the glass 24-15 despite the Tar Heels height advantage. The Tar Heels in the second started to dominate the paint and closed the gap on the rebounds.

In the second half saw both teams take turns having momentum. The Huskies led 74-69 with under six minutes to go. The Huskies then had a 76-73 lead which saw the Tar Heels go on a 7-0 run to take a 80-76 lead. After a crucial N'Diaye putback to pull the Huskies within 80-78 the Tar Heels went up six with under two minutes to go. After a Huskies bucket to pull within 84-80 with under 30 seconds left Thomas found a wide open Scott Suggs who drilled the three pointer to pull the Huskies within 84-83. The Huskies then fouled Kendall Marshall who was going to shoot a one and one free throw. Marshall missed the free throw and the Huskies got the rebound. Instead of calling their last timeout the Huskies let Venoy Overton take the ball to the hoop as he got his lay up swatted with 10 seconds. Fighting for the rebound the ball went out of bounds with seven seconds remaining. Justin Holiday's inbound pass was tipped and Dexter Strickland was then fouled. He made both free throws to give the Tar Heels an 86-83 lead. Once again Overton made a poor decision as he was expectating a Tar Heel to foul him he threw up a half court shot with 1.2 seconds on the clock. The Huskies caught a break as the ball went off a Tar Heel. So with 0.5 seconds left the Huskies inbounded the ball to Thomas for three and he missed it. The shot could have been called goaltending but on the review Thomas foot was on the line so it didn't matter. The Huskies lost 86-83 ending their season short of expectations.

The Huskies lose a tough close game despite shooting 33-72(45.8%) from the field and 10-19(52.6%) from three point range. The Huskies were even perfect on seven free throw attempts. Despite giving up the size advantage the Huskies outrebounded the Tar Heels 38-33 including 13 offensive rebounds. In the end that wasn't enough for the Huskies as the Tar Heels were led by their five starters who scored 81 points. Led by Zeller with 23 and Barnes with 22. Marshall scored 13 points while dishing out 14 assists. For the Huskies they were led by Ross who scored 19 points on 7-10 shooting including three three pointers and six rebounds. Bryan-Amaning finished his career with 14 points on 7-14 shooting with eight rebounds. Thomas scored just 12 points on 5-15 shooting but did have eight assists. C.J.Wilcox came alive in the second half to score 11 points on four for nine shooting including three three's. Scott Suggs added eight points on two three pointers. Gant scored six points and six rebounds. Overton finished his career with five points and two assists. Justin Holiday continued his shooting slump scoring just four points on two for six shooting. Then N'Diaye provided a lift scoring four points on two for three shooting with 11 rebounds including five offensive. The Huskies played a good game but five bad minutes down the stretch can offset 35 great minutes which is the sad reality of sports.

Overall the Huskies played a good but they just simply lost to the better team. The Huskies now you could argue if they had taken care of business in the regular season they wouldn't be in this position. As for the game itself it was a clean game which the Huskies battled hard. Now the cold reality is three guys on this Huskies team will never wear that Huskies uniform again. The Huskies will be returning six guys from this team along with Abdul Gaddy and Tony Wroten coming in should be in a position to make some noise next season. As for this year the year that started off with so much promise including at one time a top 10 ranking is over suddenly. Nobody would have accepted a round 32 loss at the start of the year or even three weeks ago. The Huskies didn't achieve their goals and now must always wonder what could have been?

Observations:

- Years from now people will look back at this game as an instant classic. Unfortunately for Huskies fans they seem to be on the wrong side of those games. In this game you'll notice a young freshman who kept his team in it. No I'm not talking about Harrison Barnes who played great I might add.

Instead I'm talking about Terrence Ross. Ross who showed you why he is still a freshman at times but also showed how the sky is the limit for him. Given the situation of the game and the opponent I'd say this was Ross finest game of his freshman year. Ross started off hot in Pac-10 play averaging 16.0 points per game in his first four games. Then Ross like most freshman hit a wall. It was so bad he played four minutes against UCLA the second to last regular season game then didn't play against USC. Ross rebounded by averaging 15.3 PPG in the Pac-10 tournament being named first team all tournament team.

Then Ross took a big step backwards scoring zero points on 0-5 shooting in 10 lousy minutes against the Georgia Bulldogs. Ross found himself removed from the starting lineup today. Ross hit his first three point attempt in the first half. Ross, unlike Wilcox who can catch fire at any moment, you know what you are getting. Typically with Ross you can tell the game he will have in the first five minutes. Well today Ross grabbed six rebounds and made some nice athletic moves. He also showed he is a good shooter as well. Ross finished the year averaging 8.0 PPG while shooting 44.3% from the field, 35.2% from three's and 75.8% from free throw's. The future is bright with Ross and Wilcox being only freshman.

- The picture to my right is of Thomas giving support to teammate Justin Holiday who made a costly mistake on the inbound pass. Holiday has gone MIA the last seven games. Holiday who worked so hard to improve his scoring all year long. In the team's first 28 games Holiday averaged 11.9 PPG, shot 124-249(49.8%) from the field and 46-115(40.0%) from three point range. As you can see Holiday made great strides in his career but then in the last seven games he reverted back to how he was early in his junior season.

In Holiday's final seven games in a Huskies uniform he averaged just 4.9 PPG while shooting 14-48(29.1%) from the field and was 1-16(6.3%) from three point range. In four of those games Holiday played over 30 minutes despite slumping so badly. One can question why Holiday was even on the floor with those numbers down the stretch. I openly question that as well since as you can see Holiday has been an offensive liability. It is truly a shame Holiday's career ended the way it did. Hopefully the fans can remember the good he did for this school.

- Venoy Overton's career ends with two costly mistakes. Overton played just 12 minutes while scoring five points on one for three shooting. Romar smartly didn't play Overton much instead playing his three wings of Ross, Wilcox and Suggs. Yet with the season on the line on the two most important possessions the season was decided by Overton. Even Overton himself questioned that move after the game.

I'll talk about both plays and one play wasn't Overton's fault in my opinion. Down by one with 17 seconds left Overton chose to push the ball which I hated the decision. Even if he makes the bucket the Tar Heels still have 10 seconds to score the game winning shot. Now some may say Lorenzo Romar trusted his senior to make the right decision but that is just stupid. What makes Overton so great and so frustrating is how reckless he plays. Having said that with the game on the line you don't want that. Romar should have taken a timeout and put the ball in Thomas hands to let him decide the season.

On the half court shot Overton messed up big time. Up three with less than five seconds to go the Huskies expected the Tar Heels to foul them. Overton hoping they would foul him as he threw up that desperation three to earn three free throw's. What Overton should have done is not worry about them fouling him. Overton should have pushed the ball up court and quickly find a shooter. If they foul him simply make the first free throw then miss the second for a tip in or tip out three for the win. Once again remember this was after a made free throw why Overton brought the ball up the court instead of their best player and decision maker Thomas is a bit mind boggling. Once again hopefully the fans remember all the good that Overton did because like Holiday he didn't end his career on a high note at all.

- Pretty amazing the Huskies only lost by three points with Isaiah Thomas shooting 5-15 making zero three pointers. Thomas had just 12 points but did dish out eight assists. Most people figured if the Huskies were to win Thomas would have to have a big game which he didn't. Even with Thomas struggles you have to wonder why wasn't the ball in his hands with the game on the line. I know technically he took the last shot of the season but that was a catch and shoot situation.

Thomas the final time he brought the ball up faked a three and dished to an open Suggs who drilled the three to pull within one. Unlike last week where Romar put the ball in Thomas hands to win the game he elected to go with Overton. That decision fans will debate all offseason as they should. Thomas made great strides as an overall great player. Thomas was once again named first team all pac-10 finished his year averaging 16.8 PPG on 44.5% shooting from the field and 34.9% from three point range. The most important part is Thomas averaged 6.1 assists on the year the highest since Will Conroy averaged 6.5 assists in the 2004-05 season.

- Lorenzo Romar is a good coach for the Washington Huskies. That has been established with taking the team to the tournament in six of his eight seasons. He has a winning tournament record too at 8-6. He has won the Pac-10 tournament three times and the regular season once. He has also failed to take that next step in this program. It is becoming more painfully obvious he might not ever be able to take that step.

Now I felt for the first 35 minutes Romar coached great. There wasn't many stupid plays, the rotation was just fine. Then in the last five minutes just basic fundamental plays the Huskies couldn't make. The two Overton plays, Holiday inbound, Ross getting his pocket picked, having both Overton and Holiday on the court, etc. This seems to be a theme in the Romar era on tough losses that the Huskies don't lose because the other team beat them. They are losing by making stupid decisions late in games. This isn't to take away from North Carolina at all they were the better team playing basically a home game.

The Huskies are in a weird spot with Romar they truly are. Some fans and a certain KJR host seem to think he can do no wrong and are just happy with making the NCAA tournament. Those fans adjust expectations as the season goes on. Other fans know this program can do so much more with all that talent in the Seattle/Tacoma area. Romar is a great program builder as typically all his seniors get better. Only Mike Jensen and Venoy Overton appeared to have taken a step back throughout their careers. The Huskies need to land a big time recruit. I'm not talking about a player either I'm talking about scouting the country for an X's and O's geru at some D-2 or D-3 school. Ken Bone was a head coach at Seattle Pacific for 14 years and he left to Washington knowing he could move on from there. The question comes down to will Romar finally admit he needs help on offense or will the Huskies simply accept being a top tier team in a weak conference?

All in all this loss was probably the second toughest in the Romar era. I don't think any loss will top that Uconn game in 2006 but if there was a game this was it. This loss became even more depressing as 11th seeded Marquette(same team UW beat last year in tournament) upset 3rd seeded Syracuse. So the Huskies most likely would have been the favorites in a sweet 16 game instead their season is over. The Huskies future appears very bright but after seeing them underachieve in the regular season the last two years can you trust them?

The Huskies had to play basically a road game because they lost to Washington State twice, Oregon, Oregon State and Stanford. Win at worst four of those games the Huskies would have a 28-10 record going into this game and most likely would have been in Tucson. Instead for the second straight year the Huskies lost seven conference games in a weak conference. The Pac-10 has sent just three teams out of 48 teams to the sweet 16 the last three years. There is no excuse to lose that many games in a crappy conference like that. The Huskies if they wish to advance in the tournament must take care of the regular season. Look at North Carolina they won the ACC regular season and now their path to elite 8 looks pretty good. Win in the regular season and you obviously get rewarded with easier opponents and are closer to home. The Huskies hopefully next year finally play up to their capabilities. As for this year well it wasn't a failure but it wasn't a success either. I guess there is always next year which is the typical Seattle saying unfortunately.

Huskies win NCAA first game over Bulldogs 68-65

By Kshell

The 7th seeded Washington Huskies(24-10,11-7) survived a late rally by the 10th seeded Georgia Bulldogs(21-12,9-7) to win 68-65 in the first game of the NCAA tournament. The Huskies also set school history making this the first time they have won an NCAA tournament game three years in a row. The Huskies were once again led by Pac-10 tournament MVP Isaiah Thomas who scored 19 points while dishing out seven assists. The Huskies also received a big boost from their bench as the Huskies reserves outscored the Bulldogs reserves 28-0. The Huskies overcame a big game by Trey Thompkins who scored 26 points and grabbed 11 rebounds. The Huskies also overcame an early seven point deficit to the Bulldogs. The Huskies with this win have now won at least one tournament game in Lorenzo Romar's last five appearances in the NCAA tournament. The Huskies also won on the east coast for the first time in over a decade. The Huskies took care of business which is all you want in the tournament.

The first half saw the Huskies struggle making their shots. The Huskies found themselves trailing 23-16 after the Bulldogs went on a 9-0 run. The season was in danger of ending if the Bulldogs had went on another run. Instead the Huskies closed the half out on a 12-5 run led by Thomas attacking the hole and setting up his teammates. Despite being dominated in the first half the Huskies rallied to tie it at 28-28 at halftime. The Bulldogs had shot 11-27(40.7%) from the field and made three of six three pointers. They were led by Thompkins who scored 15 points on six for eight shooting with six rebounds. The Huskies had shot 12-38(31.6%) from the field and a disasterous 2-14(14.3%) from three point range. The Huskies were led by Scott Suggs who scored seven points on three for seven shooting with a three pointer. Matthew Bryan-Amaning added six points on three for seven shooting with four rebounds. Thomas scored just four points on two for eight shooting but had four assists. The Huskies bench outscored the Bulldogs 14-0.

In the second half the Huskies after giving up the lead went on a 12-2 run to go up 40-32. The Huskies the rest of the half led by Thomas controlled the half being up by 8-10 points the entire half. The Huskies also shot better shooting 14-22(63.6%) and made two for four from three point range. The Huskies also were 10-12(83.3%) from the free throw line in the second half. The Bulldogs did make the game interesting trailing by 10 inside two minutes the Huskies tried to give the game away. With turnovers, dumb fouls and missed free throws the Huskies found themselves up just two points with 3.7 seconds left. Freshman C.J. Wilcox hit the first free throw to put the Huskies up three. Wilcox missed the second free throw which was rebounded by Jeremy Price who threw an outlet pass which was broken up by Thomas. Thomas leaped up like Nate Robinson to deflect the pass forcing the Bulldogs to take a tough three point shot which was missed. The Huskies had survived to win the tournament game over the Bulldogs. The Bulldogs were led by Thompkins who scored 26 points on 11-14 shooting including two three pointers and 11 rebounds.

The Huskies were led by Isaiah Thomas once again. Thomas finished 6-14 shooting but a perfect seven for seven at the foul line. Thomas scored 19 points and dished out seven assists. The Huskies received great team scoring today as their bench outscored the Bulldogs 28-0. Leading the reserves was Scott Suggs who scored 10 points on four for seven shooting including two three's. Matthew Bryan-Amaning is still struggling scoring just eight points on three for eight shooting with just six rebounds. Darnell Gant who made the start this game overcame two quick fouls to score seven points on three for five shooting including a three. Then the Huskies had Justin Holiday, Aziz N'Diaye, Venoy Overton and C.J. Wilcox all score six points. The Huskies for the game shot 12-14(85.7%) from the foul line for the game. For the Huskies it was business as usual winning an NCAA tournament game. This is the fourth win for the Huskies in the last three years.

Overall the Huskies won an NCAA tournament game but that wasn't the goal. The goal heading into the year wasn't to win just one tournament game. The Huskies will now take on the University of North Carolina Tar Heels on Sunday. The Huskies took care of business when they had to in the second half to stretch the lead. That was mainly because of Thomas who scored 15 points in the second half on four for six shooting. Thomas was electric in the second half and then saved the game with his defense at the end. The Huskies won't have much time to enjoy this win. In just 36 hours after the game the Huskies will be taking on North Carolina. The opportunity the Huskies have in this game will be huge. Just don't forget to enjoy this win for at least a day.

Observations:

- Thomas playing in his sixth career tournament game was big once again. After a slow start Thomas finished with 19 points and seven assists. In the process Thomas passed Huskies Honks Eldridge Recasner for sixth all-time in Huskies history in points. Thomas is just 35 points away from fifth place so if the Huskies were to win on Sunday he could pass it this year.

Thomas in the NCAA tournament has played pretty well scoring in double figures in five straight games. For the tournament Thomas is averaging 16.5 points per game on 34-85(40.0%) from the field. He has also averaged 5.7 assists per game. Thomas isn't a player who freezes up in big games. Thomas along with Matthew Bryan-Amaning, Venoy Overton, Darnell Gant and Justin Holiday will tie Brandon Roy, Mike Jensen and Bobby Jones in playing in their seventh tournament game this Sunday. That will be a Huskies record for most tournament games played.

- The Huskies defense played really well after trailing early on 23-16. Thompkins scored 26 of the Bulldogs 65 points. The Huskies in the second half denied Thompkins the ball in long stretches at a time. The Huskies had six steals. Thomas and Holiday each had two steals while Bryan-Amaning and Terrence Ross each had a steal.

The stats are a bit skewed since the Huskies fell apart in the final two minutes. In the first 18 minutes of that half the Huskies really put the pressure on the Bulldogs. The defense pressure is what got the Huskies back into the game and then gave them the nice lead in the second half. The Huskies will need to apply that same pressure to North Carolina who played sloppy yet still scored 102 points. The Huskies won the Pac-10 tournament because they shot lights out. They won due to their great defensive play.

- Nice win for Lorenzo Romar as he improves to 8-5(8-6 overall) as Huskies head coach in the NCAA tournament. Romar once again changed the starting lineup starting Darnell Gant in place of C.J. Wilcox to defend the Bulldogs size. Romar also played Venoy Overton more minutes than Scott Suggs, C.J. Wilcox and Terrence Ross. Romar isn't afraid of being second guessed and made some head scratching moves that worked well.

The Huskies also won because of the trademark for Romar teams which is good defense and hustle. The Huskies shot terrible from three point range. The Huskies due to choking at the end against the Bulldogs have now won three straight games by five points or less after losing their first six. Romar has an experience tournament team which features five guys playing in their seventh tournament game and another guy playing in his sixth game this Sunday against North Carolina. Romar is the only coach to lead the Huskies to the NCAA tournament three years in a row has done that now twice. Well Romar is the first Huskies coach to win an NCAA tournament game three years in a row.

All in all the Huskies were favored and won the game they were supposed to win. In the NCAA tournament it doesn't matter how you look just as long as you advance. The Huskies have some area's to clean up as does North Carolina. The Huskies after playing in this gym should start having their shots fall. The Huskies also won a game in which they couldn't shoot well and only Thomas scored more than 11 points. This was a total team effort as eight guys scored over six points. Now the Huskies should enjoy this win as they set history winning a tournament game three years in a row. The Huskies will have a chance to achieve their biggest win in the last 50 years for this program. The Huskies have a chance to beat a historic program in their backyard. Just don't forget to enjoy this win is all. The upperclassman have done a great job leaving their mark at the University of Washington. It would be nice if they could provide the biggest victory of the Lorenzo Romar era this sunday.

All-time Huskies team in the Romar era

By Kshell

As the Washington Huskies prepare for their sixth NCAA appearance in the last eight years in the Lorenzo Romar era I came up with an idea. Instead of putting you to sleep with yet another preview of the game between the Huskies and the Georgia Bulldogs I figured I would do something else. Over the years Romar has produced some great talent and I started to think how about I do an all-time team. Just like with most Romar teams you'll see my roster consists of mostly guards. On my 12 man roster I include eight Huskies who were first team all Pac-10 and four guys guys who made Pac-10 honorable mention. This team will include four guys who were drafted in the NBA first round, seven guys who have played in the NBA not counting two active players. Just like with any list I'm sure there will be some controversy. I have two active players in fact in my starting lineup so here is my list.

Starting Five:

G- Isaiah Thomas(2008-present):

Now that Thomas has became a point guard he is the obvious choice here. Thomas in just three years may have accomplished more than any other player in the Romar era. Thomas has won the freshman of the year, made two first team all Pac-10 teams plus an honorable mention. He has also won a Pac-10 regular season championship and won two Pac-10 tournament championships. Thomas was named MVP in those two Pac-10 championship wins as well.

Thomas in his career at UW has averaged 16.4 PPG, 3.9 APG and 3.5 RPG while making 1.6 three pointers a game. Thomas for his career is averaging 1.2 steals a game as well. As a freshman Thomas averaged 15.5 PPG while dishing out 2.6 APG. Thomas started 34 of 35 games as he was named freshman of the year. As a sophomore Thomas started all 36 games averaging 16.9 PPG and dishing out 3.2 assists. Thomas was named first team all pac-10 that year. Then this year his junior year Thomas again making all 33 starts has averaged 16.8 PPG while dishing out 6.0 assists per game. Once again Thomas was named first team all pac-10. For his career Thomas needs just 10 points to be 6th all-time on the Huskies scoring list. Just 53 points to be 5th all-time. If Thomas comes back for his senior year he will be the all-time leading scorer in Huskies history and in assists as he averaged 6.0 APG this season. Pretty easy choice putting Thomas in this starting five.

G-Brandon Roy(2003-2006):

Another obvious selection here picking Brandon Roy. Roy while at Washington was part of three NCAA tournament teams, including back to back sweet 16 teams. Roy was twice named honorable mention all pac-10 then as senior he won Pac-10 player of the year. Roy was also unanimously chosen as a first team all-american. Roy is the only Romar player to win Pac-10 player of the year and be a first team all-american.

What many forget is that the Huskies didn't receive a freshman or junior year from Roy basically. Due to SAT scores Roy was limited as a freshman playing just 13 games that year. As a sophomore Roy averaged 12.9 points per game, led the team in rebounding with 5.3 and was second in assists with 3.3. As a junior Roy got hurt in the great Alaska shootout and was the best 6th man in the country. Roy averaged 12.8 PPG, 5.0 RPG and 2.2 APG. As a senior Roy blew up and carried the Huskies on his back to the sweet 16 where the Huskies were a few plays from an elite eight appearance. In that year Roy averaged 20.2 PPG, 5.6 RPG and led the team with 4.1 APG. Roy that year shot 50.8% from the field, 40.2% from three point range and 81.0% from free throws. Roy ended up being picked seventh overall in the draft. That is the highest any Romar player has ever been drafted.

F-Quincy Pondexter(2006-2010):

Nobody in the Romar era has quite had the career like Quincy Pondexter has had. This was a big time five star recruit who was a total bust at the end of his sophomore season. Then as a junior Pondexter became an all-around player and was big in the NCAA tournament. Then as a senior Pondexter carried the Huskies and won a Pac-10 record player of the week award five times. Pondexter also hit the game winning shot with 1.7 seconds left to beat Marquette in the first round of the 2010 NCAA tournament. Pondexter developed in a great forward while at Washington.

Pondexter as a freshman was third on the team in scoring but slowed down in Pac-10 play. Pondexter made 22 starts that year and averaged 10.7 ppg but wasn't an all around player at all. As a sophomore Pondexter took a step backwards starting just nine games while averaging 9.9 points per game. As a junior Pondexter led the team in scoring in the NCAA tournament and for the season averaged 12.1 points per game and 5.9 RPG. Then as a senior Pondexter broke out being named first team all pac-10 and probably should have won player of the year. Pondexter averaged 19.3 PPG and led the team in rebounding with 7.4 RPG. Pondexter also shot 52.8% from the field, 35.3% from three point range and 82.7% from free throws. Pondexter finished his Husky career as the third all-time leading scorer. Pondexter would be drafted in the first round of the NBA draft.

F-Jon Brockman(2005-2009):

When Jon Brockman came to Washington he was a heralded recruit having played in the McDonalds All-American game. Brockman made his stamp immediately for the Huskies. As a freshman Brockman made 32 of 33 starts on a sweet 16 team and was named first team all freshman team. Then as a sophomore Brockman was named first team all pac-10. As a junior they changed the team from 10 guys to five so Brockman was second team all pac-10 in the toughest field ever for all pac-10 teams. Then as a senior Brockman led the Huskies to their first Pac-10 regular season championship outright since 1953. Brockman of course was named first team all pac-10. When you think of Brockman you think of hard worker and tough rebounder.

Brockman could very well be the greatest power forward in Huskies history. As a freshman Brockman averaged 8.4 PPG and 6.5 RPG while making 32 starts. As a sophomore Brockman averaged 14.2 PPG and led the Pac-10 with 9.6 RPG. As a junior Brockman led the team in scoring with a 17.8 average and Pac-10 in rebounding once again with a 11.6 average. Then as a senior Brockman averaged 14.9 points per game and once again led the Pac-10 in rebounds with a 11.5 average. Brockman was a three year captain, made two first team all pac-10 selections, and made 129 starts out of 131 games. Brockman is also the all-time leading rebounder in Huskies history and is second all-time in scoring. Brockman would be drafted in the second round of the NBA draft.

F-Matthew Bryan-Amaning(2007-2011)

By far my most controversial pick in choosing Bryan-Amaning. First as we know over the years with Romar teams my options are pretty limited. For guards I'm snubbing someone like Nate Robinson because the Huskies are loaded at guards. Now I'm sure I could go super small and go with Thomas, Robinson, Roy, Pondexter and Brockman. I just chose to make this a real team is all. So now I'll defend my Bryan-Amaning selection which is pretty easy in my opinion. First of all I think this comes down to three choices which is Bryan-Amaning, one year of Spencer Hawes or Mike Jensen. I chose Bryan-Amaning since he was part of tournament teams and was named first team all pac-10 unlike those two.

As a freshman Bryan-Amaning hardly played and made just three starts. Bryan-Amaning averaged just 4.2 PPG and 3.2 RPG. Then as a sophomore Bryan-Amaning was a key 6th man on a Pac-10 championship team averaging 6.0 PPG and 4.0 RPG. As a junior like Pondexter the year before Bryan-Amaning took off second half. Bryan-Amaning in 25 starts averaged 8.8 PPG, 5.9 RPG and 1.5 blocks per game. Then this year Bryan-Amaning was named Pac-10's most improved player and first team all conference. Bryan-Amaning started 29 of 33 games averaged 15.5 PPG, led the team in rebounding with 8.1 rebounds a game. He also blocked 1.6 shots a game. Bryan-Amaning is just the second Huskies player ever to record 100 plus blocks and 100 plus steals in his career. Bryan-Amaning was a big part of three pac-10 championship teams and I'll take four years of Bryan-Amaning over one year of Spencer Hawes is what it came down to.

Reserves:

G-Nate Robinson(2002-2005)

My toughest guy to boot from the starting five. While at Washington Robinson put the Huskies on the map with his high flying dunks and dazzling plays. Robinson was also more than just a sideshow. He led the Huskies to two NCAA tournament appearances including in 2005 leading the Huskies to a Pac-10 tournament championsihp. The Huskies were rewarded a #1 seed for the first and only time in school history. Robinson while at Washington was named first team all Pac-10 twice. Had Robinson came back his Senior year he would have been first team all pac-10 and the Huskies could have possibly made the final four in 2006. Robinson was the first Romar player drafted in the first round.

C- Spencer Hawes(2006-07):

Spencer Hawes gave the Huskies just one year or he would be on the starting five. Hawes was a huge recruit as he played in the McDonalds All-American game. Hawes was named honorable mention all pac-10 and first team all freshman team. Hawes during his one year in Washington led the team in scoring with a 14.9 average while grabbing 6.4 rebounds a game. Hawes also blocked 1.7 shots a game. Hawes shot 53.2% from the field and 75.5% from the free throw line. Hawes was the second Romar player drafted in the NBA lottery going 10th overall to the Sacramento Kings.

F-Tre Simmons(2003-2005):

Simmons came to Washington as a transfer from Green River community college. Simmons in his first year at Washington made 12 starts in helping the Huskies reach the NCAA tournament for the first time in five years. Simmons averaged 10.8 points per game while making 1.5 three's a game at a 40.3% clip. Then as a senior Simmons was named first team all pac-10 averaging 16.0 PPG while averaging 4.8 RPG. Simmons also made 2.4 three's a game while shooting 41.7% from down town. Simmons also shot 86.8% from the free throw line while at Washington. Simmons went on to play European ball.

G- Will Conroy(2001-2005):

Will Conroy was the heart and soul of the Huskies teams in their first two NCAA tournament appearances under Lorenzo Romar. Conroy began his career as a walk-on under then coach Bob Bender. After Bender was fired Conroy had a big sophomore year under Romar averaging 12.7 PPG while dishing out 4.0 APG. As a junior in leading the Huskies to the NCAA tournament Conroy averaged 12.3 PPG and dished out 4.6 APG. Then as a senior Conroy was named honorable mention all pac-10. Conroy also was team captain for the second straight year. Conroy averaged 9.4 PPG but did lead the conference with 6.4 APG. Conroy was also named co-team MVP with Nate Robinson as the Huskies were the #1 seed in the West regional. Conroy is first all-time in school history for assists in a career and assists in a single season in 2004-05 campaign. Conroy has played some in the NBA but has mostly played NBDL.

F-Bobby Jones(2002-2006):

Bobby Jones was a three and a half year starter for the Huskies in his career. He was known for his defense and despite being forced to play the big forward he handled it well. Jones was also the very first Romar recruit and he started 14 games as a freshman. Jones as a sophomore had a breakthrough year as the Huskies made the NCAA tournament. Jones made 25 starts that season while averaging 11.2 PPG, 4.9 RPG and 1.2 steals a game. Then as a junior Jones started 33 of a possible 34 games. During that year Jones averaged 11.2 PPG, 5.6 RPG and 1.1 steals. As a senior Jones saw himself named captain and was named honorable mention all pac-10. Jones averaged 10.4 PPG, 4.9 RPG and 1.2 steals. As you can see for three years the Huskies knew what they were getting out of Bobby Jones. Jones would later be drafted in the second round. He played some in the NBA and is currently playing in Europe.

G- Justin Dentmon(2005-2009):

Justin Dentmon had an interesting career at Washington. As a freshman Dentmon started 32 of 33 games. During that year Dentmon was named first team all freshman team. Dentmon averaged 8.3 PPG, 3.8 APG and 3.5 RPG. Dentmon in his first two NCAA tournament games didn't turn the ball over once as the Huskies went to the sweet 16. The next two years saw Dentmon struggled big time. As a sophomore Dentmon was often the guy turning the ball over at the worst time or taking the shot at the worst time. Dentmon did start 27 games that year and did average 10.1 PPG, 3.6 APG and 4.0 RPG. As a junior saw Dentmon reach a personal low as he started just eight games. During that year Dentmon averaged just 9.8 PPG, 2.3 APG and 2.3 RPG. After being benched for Venoy Overton and Isaiah Thomas coming in most thought Dentmon would transfer or ride the bench. Instead Dentmon made first team all pac-10 and was named Huskies captain. Dentmon switched to shooting guard as well. Dentmon averaged 14.4 PPG, 2.5 APG, 2.7 RPG. Dentmon also made 1.8 three's a game while shooting 41.8% from three point range. Dentmon currently is in the NBDL league and even made the NBDL all-star game.

F- Jamaal Williams(2004-2006):

Jamaal Williams came to Washington as a transfer from New Mexico. Williams in his two years at Washington was the Huskies best low post scoring option. During his first year Williams averaged 9.9 PPG and shot 56.1% from the field as the Huskies made the sweet 16. Then as a senior Williams was named honorable mention all pac-10. Williams also made 22 starts that year while being second on the team in scoring with 13.8 PPG average. In his last game ever as a Husky Williams scored a career high 27 points on 12-22 shooting while grabbing a team high seven rebounds in the 98-92 loss to the Uconn Huskies. Williams played some European ball and is now currently a Huskies assistent coach.

Well that is my all-time Huskies team in the Lorenzo Romar era. Feel free to debate my selection. All 12 of my guys made all pac-10 in the Romar era. Hopefully in the next few years some guys on this current roster and recruits can make the list. Looking back you can see why the Huskies have been so successful in the Romar years. Romar has done a fine job of recruiting and developing his players. In the Romar era he had four players who had never even made an all pac-10 team make first team as a senior. Romar in fact has had six seniors make first team all pac-10 which is quite the feat in today's college basketball. So remember dawg fans as we watch our team take on the Georgia Bulldogs these guys paved the way for today. Now the current Huskies have a chance to write their own history and have future Huskies look up to them. Hope you enjoyed my list and if I missed anyone don't be afraid to let me know. In my opinion this is the best possible 12 man roster in the Romar era.

Thomas hits buzzer beater as Huskies repeat as Pac-10 champions 77-75 over Wildcats!

By Kshell

With the game tied at 75-75 the Washington Huskies decided not to call timeout. Instead the Huskies asked co-captain Isaiah Thomas to deliver once again. At Staples Center Thomas did what Kobe Bryant has done in that same stadium many of times. Thomas dribbled down the clock stepped back and hit a buzzer beater to give the Washington Huskies(23-10,11-7) a 77-75 overtime victory over the #16 Arizona Wildcats(27-7,14-4) to repeat as Pac-10 tournament champions. Just like when these teams played in Seattle Thomas was the star of the game. Thomas scored 28 points, dished out seven assists, grabbed five rebounds and played all but two possessions in three days for the Huskies. Just like the previous meeting this game came down to the wire once again. Momentum had swung so many times this game the difference was Thomas was determined. Thomas became the first player since Sean Elliot to win back to back tournament MVP awards. Now the Huskies are riding high and guaranteed a trip to the NCAA tournament.

The first half was played at a fast pace which favors both teams. The Huskies were led by Thomas who carried the team on his back to keep them in the game. The Arizona Wildcats built a nine point lead but the Huskies would rally to trail by a score of 36-33. The Wildcats shot 13-27(48.1%) from the field but unlike last game were just 4-11(36.4%) from three point range. The Wildcats also struggled at free throws making just 6-11(54.5%). Pac-10 player of the year Derrick Williams led the Wildcats with seven points on two for three shooting with four rebounds. The Huskies had shot 12-28(42.9%) from the field and 5-11(45.4%) from three point range. The Huskies had outrebounded the Wildcats 13-11 as well.

The Huskies were led by Thomas who scored 19 points on six for nine shooting, including three for four from three point range and was perfect in four free throw attempts. Without Thomas the Huskies would have been blown out. The Huskies next leading scorer was Scott Suggs who scored five points on two for five shooting including a three. The Huskies received solid play from big man Aziz N'Diaye who scored just two points on one for three shooting but did have five rebounds while playing tough defense. Thomas needed more help from his teammates which he would receive in the second half.

The second half would feature plenty of momentum swings which would escalate this game to instant classic status. Thomas teammates would decide to step up like Terrence Ross who scored 12 points in the second half/overtime. The Huskies would receive nine points from Matthew Bryan-Amaning as well as he was held scoreless in the first half. The Huskies had built up a six point lead but would then miss six straight free throws which has been their downfall for years now. Then the game looked lost for the Huskies trailing 63-59 with under 40 seconds left. After a miss Thomas drilled a three pointer to pull within 63-62. The Huskies instead of fouling immediately decided to try and press which burned them. Suggs fouled Williams after he had already made the bucket, Williams then hit the free throw which everyone thought iced the game at 66-62. The Huskies freshman would step up huge as Ross would drill a three pointer to cut the lead to 66-65. After two made free throws the Huskies had the ball down three. Thomas sliced through the lane which the Wildcats collapsed on him and he kicked it out to an open C.J. Wilcox who was also scoreless in the first half drilled the three pointer to tie the game. Wilcox scored nine points in the second half. The Huskies had somehow sent the game to overtime.

Then in overtime the Huskies the freshman continued to hit as Ross and Wilcox hit buckets to give the Huskies a 73-70 lead. Then with the Huskies overcoming Bryan-Amaning fouling out on a suspect call the Huskies were clinging to a 75-72 lead. Then Kevin Parrom hit a three pointer to tie the score up at 75-75. Many thinking we would be heading for another overtime but Thomas who probably knew he had maybe one last possession in him. Thomas waved off Romar for the timeout and was going to win it himself. Thomas drove to the top of the key, stopped faded back and swished the bucket with no time left. The first buzzer beater for the Huskies since 2000 when Senque Carey hit the game winner at California. For Thomas he cemented his legacy at Washington forever much like Quincy Pondexter did last year against Marquette.

For the Huskies they finished the game with a repeat Pac-10 championship. The Huskies also beat the top two teams in the Pac-10 four out of five games. The only loss was by a single point as well. The Huskies for the game shot 30-66(45.5%) from the field, 9-25(36.0%) from three point range and outrebounded the Wildcats 37-27. The picture to the right says a thousand words. Thomas was the ultimate warrior this tournament having sat out a combined two possessions in three straight days. Thomas finished as the tournament MVP for the second straight year. Thomas finished the game with 28 points on 10-16 shooting from the field and four for seven from three pointers. Thomas also had seven assists which set a Pac-10 tournament record with 30 assists. Thomas grabbed five rebounds and recorded two steals. He also carried his team in the first half and then with the game on the line Thomas hit the game winning shot as the Huskies showed once again they play their best ball in March. The key was in the second half Thomas received help from his teammates.

For the Huskies you had the freshman step up once again. Led by first team all tournament team Terrence Ross scored 16 points on 7-13 shooting including two for five from three point range. The next leading scorer was Matthew Bryan-Amaning who scored nine points on 3-10 shooting as he fouled out in 24 minutes. C.J. Wilcox added nine points on four for nine shooting including the three pointer to send the game into overtime. The Huskies received good play from their big men off the bench as Darnell Gant scored six points while hitting a three pointer and recorded eight rebounds with two block shots. Aziz N'Diaye showed his value today scoring four points on two for four shooting but pulled down seven rebounds in just 18 minutes. Thomas carried the team in the first half but like always it was a total team effort to win this Pac-10 championship.

Overall the Huskies have just won their second straight Pac-10 tournament championship and third overall. Since 2005 the Huskies have won four Pac-10 championships if you count their 2008-09 regular season title. The Huskies are 23-10 on the year with six of those losses coming by five points or less. The Huskies went 2-0 in that scenario this tournament so if they can solve the close game problems they could go on a run. The Huskies clinched their third straight trip to the NCAA tournament with this big win. The Huskies also proved that you can't ever count them out ever as this is the second straight year they entered the Pac-10 tournament as the third seed and walked away with the title. The Huskies will wait tomorrow to see who they play and where. At least the Huskies know they are going to the tournament which this time last week nobody would have predicted this. The Huskies are now in the NCAA tournament and once you are there anything can happen. If Thomas plays like he did this tournament the Huskies will be a tough team to beat.

Observations:

- Thomas is the tournament MVP which was the most obvious choice since name Charlie Sheen the craziest man in hollywood. Thomas put on an MVP performance and has ended his slump greatly. Thomas scored when the team needed him to like he showed in the first half. He dished the ball to open teammates all week including a great assist to Wilcox to tie the game up. Then like Pondexter last year with the game on the line he stepped it up and nailed the game winning shot.

For the tournament Thomas averaged 19.7 points per game, 10.0 APG, 3.3 RPG, and 2.7 steals a game. Thomas shot 20-40(50.0%) from the field including 8-16(50.0%) from three point range. Thomas also played all but two possessions in three days. Thomas averaged 41.0 minutes a game considering college basketball is only 40 minutes long that is incredible. Thomas proved why he is a winner. Thomas has destroyed the Wildcats this year averaging 20.7 points per game and 9.0 assists per game. He is shooting 21-37(56.8%) from the field and 6-12(50.0%) from three point range. Since he has came to UW he has only won a Pac-10 regular season title as a freshman, then his sophomore and junior year won back to back Pac-10 tournament titles. Thomas also cemented his legacy as a Husky legend and if he comes back next year he'll be the all-time leading scorer and assist man in Huskies history.

- What a roller coaster ride for freshman Terrence Ross this season. Ross who played a combined four minutes in the last home series of the year against the L.A. schools found himself starting this week. Not only that but Ross found himself on the all tournament team unlike with such studs like Klay Thompson, Derrick Williams and of course Isaiah Thomas. Ross came up big for the Huskies all three games. Today Ross finished 16 points with 12 of them coming in the second half. Ross can shoot the three ball and slash to the hole for easy dunks. He is going to be a special player for the Huskies down the road.

Ross finished the tournament averaging 15.3 points per game while shooting 19-36(52.7%) from the field and made 6-17(35.3%) from three point range. Ross provided a lift that the Huskies desperatly were lacking recently. Another freshman who had a nice week was C.J. Wilcox who averaged 13.0 points per game while shooting 13-28(46.4%) from the field including 9-20(45.0%) from three point range. Wilcox hit the biggest three of his life against the Wildcats today to send the game into overtime. The Huskies freshman carried the load along with Thomas this week in L.A. Hopefully the seniors can join them in the NCAA tournament.

- The Pac-10 player of the year Derrick Williams had another strong game. Williams finished the game with 24 points on 8-14 shooting while pulling down 11 rebounds. Williams also played 40 minutes which is quite a lot for a big man. Williams did struggle from the foul line shooting just 8-13(61.5%). Williams for the year against the Huskies has averaged 24.0 points per game with 11 rebounds a game. Williams has shot 24-45(53.3%) from the field against the Huskies.

Williams on the year normally shoots 61.7% from the field. Unlike most teams in the Pac-10 the Huskies have three quality big men on defense in Matthew Bryan-Amaning, Darnell Gant and Aziz N'Diaye. Those three big men make Williams earn each and every bucket he makes. The Huskies play a good defense on him and make him earn his points at the foul line. Although he still puts up numbers the Huskies have done a nice job this year of containing Williams.

- Big win for Lorenzo Romar goes without saying. For Romar he improves to 13-5(.722) in the Pac-10 tournament. Romar has led the Huskies to the championship game four times now where he has won his last three. The Huskies for the second straight year have underachieved in the regular season find themselves playing their best ball at the right time.

Romar has admitted this has been his toughest year coaching yet. When you break down what this team has overcame it is pretty incredible. First the team loses top reserve Elston Turner who transfered unexpectaly. Then the Terrence Jones fiasco where everyone thought he was going to Washington. Then the Huskies lost big man Tyrese Breshers for his career. Then the Huskies lost starting point guard Abdul Gaddy to injury for the rest of the year. You add in the Venoy Overton off the court issues and losing to crappy teams you can understand Romar's statement.

However as I type this the Huskies are right where they want to be. The Huskies are back in the NCAA tournament for their third straight year and sixth time in eight years. Romar has his critics and I have been critical of him in the past I'll admit. Romar made some nice adjustments this week which I'll give him credit for. He changed his starting lineup and instead of playing with other teams style the Huskies are making teams play with theirs. Also with your five best scorers out there the Huskies are no longer slumping on offense. Romar believes in his guys and they believe in him. There is a reason why nobody on that roster is surprised that they repeated as Pac-10 champions. When a coach has confidence in you no matter what happens the players respond. The players responded but Romar deserves all the credit.

All in all, the Huskies continue to amaze me. I don't know what to think of this team. Can this team crap the bed and lose next Thursday? Sure they can. Can this team finally go on a run and make the final four? Sure they can. With this team it's all about matchups and locations rather than seeds. Just remember tomorrow if you don't like the seed we would have killed to be in this spot a week ago when things looked pretty dark. The Huskies received an incredible three day stretch by Thomas that I've never seen before. Thomas knew he had no backup at all and seemed to get better as the tournament wore on. Thomas found a way to win the duel with Thompson on Thursday, hit a big shot on Friday to beat the Ducks then today did everything including hit a buzzer beater. Thomas and the two freshman carried the Huskies this week along with good play from Gant. The Huskies will need their seniors to step up next week if they expect to advance in the tournament. Just remember at least the Huskies are back in the tournament. I give Romar for changing the starting lineup once again. The Huskies are back in the dance and are Pac-10 champions once again.

Huskies freshman come up big in 69-51 win over Oregon in Pac-10 semi's

By Kshell

The Washington Huskies(22-10,11-7) held off the pesky Oregon Ducks(16-17,7-11) to win 69-51. The Huskies led basically the entire game over the Ducks but the Ducks just wouldn't go away. Unlike the loss in Eugene where the Huskies didn't play defense the Huskies played terrific defense today. Just like the win in Seattle freshman Terrence Ross who is from Portland, Oregon made his home state team pay. Ross made his second consecutive start had some highlight reel dunks on the Ducks as he scored 13 points. Fellow freshman C.J. Wilcox scored 14 points for the Huskies as the Huskies won in spite of their two first team all Pac-10 players Isaiah Thomas and Matthew Bryan-Amaning combining to shoot 4-20. The Huskies proved why they are a good team in the Pac-10 they can win in different ways. The Huskies will now look to defend their Pac-10 tournament championship tomorrow against the Arizona Wildcats. Isaiah Thomas for the second straight game recorded a double-double and is looking to win back to back tournament MVP's. The Huskies are finally playing well as a team at the right time of the year.

The Huskies had another sloppy first half but the Ducks had an even worse first half. The Huskies did receive great play from their bench as their bench scored 15 points in the first half. The Huskies played terrific defense on the Ducks holding the Ducks to 9-26(34.6%) shooting from the field and 2-10(20.0%) from three point range. The Huskies shot the ball all right shooting 10-24(41.7%) from the field but struggled from three point range making just 3-12(25.0%). The Huskies were 7-10(70.0%) from the foul line. The Huskies took a 30-21 halftime lead over the Ducks. Their first halftime lead since playing Seattle University over five games ago.

The Huskies did have some nice highlights as Thomas threw a perfect alley-oop to Ross for the dunk. The Huskies were led by Scott Suggs who scored eight points on three for three shooting including two three's. The Huskies also received good play from another reserve in Darnell Gant who scored six points on three for four shooting including grabbing six rebounds. Thomas had struggled in the first half with six points on just one for five shooting but did dish out five assists. The Huskies Matthew Bryan-Amaning had just two points and one rebound as he didn't even attempt a single field goal. The Huskies like yesterday received great play from Wilcox in the second half.

The Huskies came out in the second half determined to put the Ducks away. Wilcox began the half with a three pointer. The Huskies then stretched their lead to 44-30. The Ducks tighten up their defense and held the Huskies scoreless for over five minutes as they went on a 10-0 run to close within 44-40. Thomas would hit only his second shot of the game but it was huge. With two on the shot clock Thomas drilled a three pointer to give the Huskies a 47-40 lead. Then later in the game Wilcox provided the dagger as he drilled a three pointer and was fouled. After he hit the free throw the Huskies had a commanding 14 point lead. Then in the final minute as the Ducks were pressing, Ross crossed up his defender with a behind the back move then tomahawk jam on the Ducks. Ross who won the Oregon State player of the year as a sophomore at Jefferson High School is a reminder what the Ducks have been missing out on talent wise. When the horn sounded the Huskies had won 69-51 over the Ducks. For the fourth time since 2004 the Huskies will be in the Pac-10 championship game.

The Huskies won this game with defense. They held the Ducks to 18-56(32.1%) shooting from the field and just 4-24(16.7%) from three point range. The Huskies didn't exactly shoot lights out but shot well enough. The Huskies shot 24-59(40.7%) from the field, 7-22(31.8%) from three point range but made 14-18(77.8%) from the free throw line. The star of the game was Isaiah Thomas who played 38 minutes after playing 40 minutes the previous day. Thomas scored 10 points on 2-11 shooting but had 12 assists with three steals. The other stars were the freshman as C.J. Wilcox led the team in scoring with 14 points on four for nine shooting including three three pointers and making all three free throws. Terrence Ross scored 13 points on 6-12 shooting including a three pointer. Scott Suggs off the bench scored 10 points on three for six shooting including two three pointers. Darnell Gant scored eight points but pulled down a career high 10 rebounds with a block shot. Matthew Bryan-Amaning had a quiet game scoring just six points on two for nine shooting but had seven rebounds and two blocks. Justin Holiday added seven points on three for five shooting with six rebounds. Overall it was a good team effort for the Huskies.

Overall the Huskies accomplished their goal this week. The Huskies of course want to win the Pac-10 tournament for the second straight year and third time under Lorenzo Romar. The Huskies are playing some great ball and when Thomas is getting assists like he has been they are a tough team to beat. The Huskies are getting great games from their shooters recently with Wilcox, Ross and Suggs playing well. If the Huskies can get more production from their seniors they should be fine in the tournament. The Huskies prove once again when they want to they can be the premiere team in the conference. Most importantly the Huskies have proven to themselves they are still capable of playing good basketball. The Huskies will try and complete this great run with another Pac-10 championship. With the way this team is playing right now I'm not going to bet against them that is for sure. It is good to see the Huskies playing good basketball once again.

Observations:

- The picture to your right is of Isaiah Thomas hugging former Sonics legend Gary Payton. Payton is at the game cheering on the Huskies although he is an Oregon State Beavers alum. Payton has stated he is going to work out Thomas this offseason in Las Vegas. Payton also was in the Huskies locker room after the game to give them congratulations.

Thomas is playing like a point guard once again which is good to see. Thomas although he scored just 10 points did dish out 12 assists. The Huskies are now 4-1 when he has 10+ assists in a game. The Huskies are 9-1 when Thomas has 8+ assists. The only loss was a one point loss at Arizona who the Huskies have a chance to seek revenge on. Thomas for this tournament has played in 78 minutes out of 80 possible minutes. So far he is averaging 15.5 points per game and 11.5 assists which means if the Huskies win the tournament he should be the conference tournament MVP.

- Teams don't win conference tournament championships without strong play from their role players. With Bryan-Amaning having an off game and Aziz N'Diaye appearing to be lost Darnell Gant provided the Huskies with strong inside play. Gant scored eight points and grabbed a career high 10 rebounds on the game. In the first half Gant had six points and six rebounds to set the tone.

When people complain about Gant they don't understand the whole story. Gant provides good athletic defense, has improved on his rebounding and can still knock down that open jumper. Gant has improved quite a bit since his freshman year. Today was proof of that as Gant pulled down 10 rebounds while scoring eight points. Gant also didn't attempt a single three pointer which he has fallen in love with. Today was a great game from Gant and the Huskies needed that in the first half.

- The picture to the right is of Thomas congratulating Wilcox after he drilled a three pointer to ice the game. Usually in big games the freshman freeze up and the older guys take over but this year the freshman are stepping up. Wilcox and Ross combined to score 27 points on 10-21(47.6%) from the field and hit four three pointers. Once again Wilcox struggled in the first half but came on in the second half hitting two three pointers. Ross came on strong in the second half scoring nine points as well.

For this tournament Ross is averaging 15.0 PPG while shooting 12-23(52.1%)from the field, has hit four three pointers. Ross has provided several great highlight reel dunks in this tournament already. Wilcox is also averaging 15.0 PPG while shooting 9-19(47.3%) from the field and is shooting 8-16(50.0%) from three point range so far. The freshman are certainly pulling their weight in this pac-10 tournament that is for sure.

- Lorenzo Romar is advancing to the championship game for the fourth time since 2004. Overall Romar is 12-5(.705) in the Pac-10 tournament. To say Romar has been very successful in this tournament would be an understatement. This is the second time in Romar's career the Huskies have reached the championship game in back to back years(2004 & 2005). This shows Romar typically has deep teams as in a three games in three days tournament you need some depth.

The Huskies are managing this run with only eight guys on scholarship and Thomas is your only point guard on scholarship. Romar took a risk by totally shuffling his starting lineup for this tournament. A team full of upperclassman and yet the Huskies find themselves starting two freshman. The Huskies have had 10 different guys start multiple games now. Romar I'll give him praise for making the gutsy decision to suspend Venoy Overton. Romar has the team playing their best ball in the Pac-10 tournament. I'll give Romar credit when his teams have their backs against the wall they almost always respond.

All in all, the Huskies are going back to the championship game. The Huskies are receiving great play so far from Isaiah Thomas, Terrence Ross and C.J. Wilcox. The Huskies will need their seniors like Matthew Bryan-Amaning and Justin Holiday to step up to defeat the Arizona Wildcats. Romar is 2-1 all-time in the championship game including a win over the Arizona Wildcats in 2005. The Huskies have taken care of two Northwest foes who started their decline in the middle of the season. Now the Huskies get a chance to seek some revenge on the Wildcats. The Huskies are 7-6 against the Wildcats in their last 13 games showing this is a tight series. Should be a fun Pac-10 championship game tomorrow with two of the elite teams in the conference over the past couple of seasons. The Huskies have always had a rivalry with the Arizona Wildcats this decade much like the football team did with the USC Trojans in the 1980's and 90's. Everyone expected these two teams to meet in the championship just nobody expected the path the Huskies would have had to take to ge there is all. With Thomas playing good basketball the Huskies are in good shape. Most importantly the confidence is back at Montlake which is key for the NCAA tournament next week.

Huskies overcome big game from Thompson to win 89-87 over Cougars!

By Kshell

The Washington Huskies(21-10,11-7) had a huge come from behind victory over their cross state rivals Washington State Cougars(19-12,9-9) 89-87 at the 2011 Pac-10 tournament. The Huskies are the defending tournament champions and just like last year they overcame a double digit deficit to win their first round game. The Huskies unlike last year when they defeated Oregon State Beavers had to win in spite of Klay Thompson's record setting performance. Thompson hit a Pac-10 tournament record eight three pointers while scoring a tournament record 43 points. The Cougars were feeling confident early as they had beaten the Huskies earlier in the year in Pullman and in Seattle. The Huskies overcame all that by having big games from their stars. They were led by last years Pac-10 tournament MVP Isaiah Thomas who scored 21 points while dishing out 11 assists. The Huskies were also helped by both freshman C.J. Wilcox and Terrence Ross. The Huskies also with this win most likely wrapped up their place in the 2011 NCAA tournament. As for the Cougars they are most likely headed to the NIT for the second time in three years.

The Huskies got off to a slow start once again. Just like the previous two meetings the Huskies found themselves trailing at halftime. The Huskies in fact have trailed in their last five Pac-10 games. The Huskies were down by early 20-9 but battled back to within 20-17. Then the Cougars went on a 10-0 run to stretch the lead to 30-17. The Huskies battled back to pull within 40-32 at halftime as Klay Thompson was proving to be too much for the Huskies. Thompson led all scorers with 18 points on 6-14 shooting including four three pointers. The Cougars shot 14-34(41.2%) from the field but just 4-15(26.7%) from three pointers. The Cougars did outrebound the Huskies 18-15. The Huskies were struggling offensively shooting 12-31(38.7%) from the field, 5-15(33.3%) from three point range. The Huskies were saved by Terrence Ross who was making his first career start. Ross scored 13 points on five for eight shooting including three three pointers.

Other notable Huskies in the first half were Matthew Bryan-Amaning who had struggled the previous two games against the Cougars. Bryan-Amaning overcame two early fouls to score eight points on three for five shooting while grabbing four rebounds. Isaiah Thomas scored five points on two for six shooting including a three pointer. Thomas did dish out six assists in the first half. Justin Holiday continued this struggles scoring just three points on one for four shooting but did pull down six rebounds. The Huskies bench was held scoreless which was pretty thin. The Huskies would respond in the second half to make the second half a barn burner.

In the second half the Huskies came out with a 10-0 to take their first second half lead of the year on the Cougars 42-40. Then after that it was was the Huskies five starters trading punches with Thompson who was a one man show in the second half for the Cougars. A key sequence took place with the Huskies up 73-67. After a Cougars three pointer, Thompson hit a three to tie up the score at 73-73. Then the Huskies freshman C.J. Wilcox drilled back to back three pointers to give the Huskies a 79-73 lead. At the end of the game with the Huskies lead 88-85 with less than 10 seconds to go Lorenzo Romar finally did the smart thing. He had the Huskies foul Reggie Moore with under five seconds left. Moore then missed the front end of the one and one but Thompson got the rebound to score his final points of the night cutting the lead to 88-87. The Cougars headcoach Ken Bone then called a timeout but the Cougars had none. Wilcox made one of two free throw's. With 0.4 seconds left the Huskies threw the ball at midcourt and hung on to an important 89-87 win to open up this tournament. Thompson finished with 43 points on 15-29 shooting and 8-14 from three point range. In the second half Thompson was 9-15 shooting and 4-6 from three pointers to score 25 points. That wasn't enough for the Cougars though as they fell to the Huskies.

The Huskies in the second half shot lights out. In the second half the Huskies shot 22-36(61.1%) from the field, 6-13(46.1%) from three point range and even made seven of nine free throws. The Huskies were led by Thomas who scored 21 points on 8-13 shooting including three for five from three point range. Thomas played every single second of this game while dishing out 11 assists and recording three steals. He looked like the first half version of Thomas. The Huskies then had 17 points from freshman Terrence Ross who didn't even play the last game. Ross score 17 points on 6-11 shooting including three three pointers. C.J. Wilcox was also huge scoring 16 points on 5-10 shooting including 5-9 from three point range. Wilcox caught fire in the second half drilling four three pointers. Matthew Bryan-Amaning exorcised his Cougar demons by scoring 16 points on 7-11 shooting while grabbing seven rebounds. Then Justin Holiday finally came on with scrappy putbacks scoring 12 points on 5-13 shooting but grabbing a game high 10 rebounds. The five Huskies starters combined to score 82 points on 31-58(53.4%) shooting from the field. Thomas and the two freshman combined to shoot 11-21(52.3%) from three point range.

Overall this was a good win for the Huskies. The Huskies overcame a big deficit and beat an opponent who historically recently has given them problems. The Huskies also needed this win for confidence as they haven't had a good win in a while. The UCLA game was good for Wilcox but nobody else. While this felt like a team win as five Huskies score in double figures. Six Huskies played more than 20 minutes as well. The Huskies most likely stamped their ticket to the dance next week. Now the Huskies have a chance to get some revenge on the Oregon Ducks who were a major part of the Huskies second half unraveling a bit. The Huskies can go on a run if Thomas plays like he did today. As I've documented before the team goes where Thomas takes them. Well for today Thomas took them far and in his Husky career the Huskies are now 5-1 in the Pac-10 tournament. This marks the first time in Lorenzo Romar's career he has won at least one Pac-10 tournament game in three consecutive seasons. The Huskies overcame a great performance by Thompson and now will advance in this Pac-10 tournament. Most importantly next week they'll be playing in the NCAA tournament.

Observations:

- Thomas was money today when the Huskies need him. Just like when Abdul Gaddy went down Thomas stepped his game up with Venoy Overton being suspended. Thomas hit some big three point shots to break out of his horrific 6-29 three point shooting slump that he was in. Thomas also dished out 11 assists.

When Thomas is dishing out assists the main guy to benefit is Bryan-Amaning who catches the ball and dunks the ball. That is why when Thomas has bad games the Huskies lose because the opponent by shutting down Thomas is taking away two first team all pac-10 players. Thomas in the second half was six for seven shooting with 16 points and five assists. Thomas won the tournament MVP last year and since Thompson is eliminated is on the short list of players who can win it this year.

- The freshman grew up today that is for sure. At the start of the year the Huskies were so deep and returned seven guys I wondered if these freshman would even make an impact. I was wrong as they have made an impact but there has been some bumps on the road. Wilcox in the middle of the season was a no show while recently as of last week Ross played just four minutes.

Today both guys starting(first time two true freshman have started since 2007) played great. First let's start with Ross who had played just four minutes the previous week. Ross wasn't rusty at all scoring 13 of his 17 points in the first half including three three pointers. He also made some terrific athletic moves on the baseline.

As for Wilcox he scored 13 of his 16 points in the second half hitting four three pointers. Wilcox made first team all freshman team while Ross was second team all freshman team. The Huskies will have a bright future with these two. For the game these two freshman combined to score 33 points on 11-21 shooting from the field and 8-16 from three point range. The freshman took turns carrying the Huskies showing that the present and future is still bright at Montlake.

- It was nice to see Matthew Bryan-Amaning break out with a good shooting performance. Partly because of Thomas penetration Bryan-Amaning was allowed to have easy looks but recently he has been missing those. In the last three games Bryan-Amaning has shot 11-33(33.3%) from the field and against the Cougars 4-19(21.1%) from the field.

Well today was a different story as Bryan-Amaning shot 7-11(63.6%) from the field. Bryan-Amaning has had better games but scoring 16 points while shooting 7-11 was big for him to regain his confidence. Bryan-Amaning recently won the most improved player award and was awarded with making first team all pac-10. He is also the only post player on the Huskies roster as Aziz N'Diaye continues to struggle. The Huskies will need more performances like this from Bryan-Amaning. Hopefully this was just the start of good things to come.

- What feels like a decade ago there was once a time when the Huskies owned Klay Thompson. Those days are of course over. Thompson prior to this year was 0-4 against the Huskies and scored just 7.3 points per game while shooting 10-47(21.2%) from the field. As Thompson is showing to the Huskies and NBA scouts he has improved greatly on offense.

After dropping a Pac-10 tournament record 43 points on the Huskies Thompson on the year against the Huskies is averaging 31.3 points per game. He is also shooting 29-60(48.3%) from the field while making 14-27(51.9%) from three point range. To say Thompson has killed the Huskies this year would be an understatement. Luckily for the Huskies by Thompson going off in Los Angeles good chance he turns pro after this year. Thompson showed he is a great scorer. On the year Thompson is averaging 22.1 points per game while shooting 44.7% from the field and 42.3% from three point range. He is also making an average of three three pointers a game so there is some weight to that. Should be interesting how Cougars fans will remember Thompson because if he leaves he will have never played in an NCAA tournament game.

- Last night on facebook and twitter in the middle of talking crap about each other's schools it suddenly stopped. That is when Huskies and Cougars fans realized there is more to life than sports. If you haven't heard by now last night Japan was hit by a bad tsunami. The images on CNN were just horrible and that stopped all sports talk.

To makes matters even worse this is spreading to Hawaii and even the Oregon coast. To my fans in Japan who are reading this, fans in Hawaii and of course those close to home my thoughts and prayers are with you guys. I hope we all realize sports is just entertainment. There are folks in Japan right now who would love to trade places with us and "suffer" with our sports teams ASAP. Keep that in mind tonight as the Huskies take on the Ducks.

- This is a hard transition after my last observation but I'll try it anyways. When the team loses I'm often seen getting on Lorenzo Romar well the team won today. I will give credit where credit is due and today Romar deserves some credit. First he didn't let the team panic when they trailed by 13 points and eight points at halftime. I also will give Romar credit because he showed he learned from previous mistakes.

Take the starting lineup for an example. Romar thought outside the box today by starting Ross(who Romar didn't even play last game) over Aziz N'Diaye. The Cougars start basically one big guy and the rest are forwards or guards. So why start N'Diaye to get in the way? Thankfully Romar did that as the Huskies trailed by eight but Ross had 13 points so it could have been a lot worse.

Romar also at the end of the game doesn't like to foul up three with less than 10 seconds to go in the game. Today he did just that and that won the Huskies the game. By doing that he took away the chance Thompson hits another miracle three(with how he was shooting he probably hits it too) instead he made the Cougars perform under pressure. The Cougars would have to make the first free throw, miss the second free throw, get the rebound and put the ball in. Sounds a lot harder than Thompson hitting a three right? Exactly. Reggie Moore missed the first free throw and although Thompson scored on the putback it didn't matter. Those key coaching decisions by Romar won the game for the Huskies. I will gladly give him credit for when he is coaching like that.

All in all, this was a great win for the Huskies. The Huskies needed some much needed confidence. The Huskies now can't get complicent they still need to impress the tournament committee to get a good draw. The Huskies will be favored to beat the 7th seeded Oregon Ducks tonight. The Huskies have a chance to go back to the Pac-10 championship game with a win over the Ducks. If Thomas and Bryan-Amaning played like they did today the Huskies should have no problems advancing deep. The Huskies unlike last year have a thin bench due to injuries and suspensions. The Huskies will need more than just seven bench points if they expect to keep advancing. I'm glad the Huskies pulled this much needed win out for their mental sakes going forward. It was nice to see the freshman step up in a big time moment. It was especially nice to see two first team all pac-10 guys play well today. Thomas was the MVP of last year's tournament and was the MVP for the Huskies today. Now the Huskies must turn around 24 hours later to try and grab another victory. Just remember guys to enjoy the game no matter the outcome as you saw on CNN last night it could be a lot worst.