Category Archives: USA Basketball

Duke Basketball, USA Basketball

USA U16 National Team Wins the Gold

quinn-cookTeam USA traveled to Mendoza, Argentina for the FIBA Americas U16 Championship and brought home the Gold Medal with a dominating performance which featured balanced scoring. Four players averaged double digit points, over the five games, led by Brad Beal who averaged 19 points per game. Johnny O'Bryant led the team in rebounding with 9.8 per contest, while point guard Quinn Cook averaged 5 assists. Going undefeated over five games, Team USA broke the century mark in all five victories and averaged 113 points per contest.

In the Gold Medal Game, the USA defeated host, and Group B first place finisher, Argentina 101-87. The game was close early but the United States opened it up to take a 50-36 halftime lead and then opened the second half with an 8-0 run. Brad Beal led the USA in scoring with 26 points, while James McAdoo hauled in 12 rebounds and Quinn Cook dished out five assists. Cook and McAdoo added 22 and 20 points respectively. Argentina qualified for the Gold Medal game with a 66-58 victory over Venezuela in their semi-final game.

In the Semi-Finals against Group B second place finisher Canada, USA jumped out to a 14 point first quarter lead, but Canada outscored the USA by five points in the second quarter cutting the halftime advantage to nine at 57-48. The second half was all Team USA as they blew open the game with a 30-5 run and went on to defeat Canada 126-78. James McAdoo (19 points/11 rebounds) and Johnny O'Bryant (10 points/12 rebounds) both recorded double-double performances. Quinn Cook had a team high five assists to go along with 15 points.

During Round Robin play, the USA dominated Group A by winning their three games by an average 35 points including a 28 point victory over Brazil, a 26 point victory over Argentina, and a 52 point victory over Puerto Rico. In the opening game against Brazil, Adonis Thomas paced the United States with a 21 point performance featuring making 4 of 5 from behind the 3-point arc. The second game against Venezuela saw point guard Quinn Cook explode for 22 points. In the victory over Puerto Rico, six U.S. players scored in double figures and all 12 scored.

The U16 National Team is coached by Don Showalter of Mid-Prairie High School (Iowa). Showalter is being assisted by Herman Harried of Lake Clifton High School (Md) and Kevin Sutton of Montverde Academy (Fl). International competition provides an opportunity for young men to represent their country and develop their basketball skills in a structured environment. Full tournament coverage including game summaries, box scores, and photo galleries is available at the USA Basketball and FIBA Americas websites.

The United States, Argentina, and Canada qualified to compete in the FIBA 2010 U17 World Championship in Hamburg, Germany, in July 2010.

Duke Basketball, Duke Basketball Recruiting News, USA Basketball

Thursday Morning Links – Plumlee, Redick and more

Mason Plumlee - Photo property of Blue Devil Nation
Mason Plumlee - Photo property of Blue Devil Nation

Future Dukie Mason Plumlee earned All America honors from the Louisville Courier.  Here is the LINK.

Here is the NBA's early entry list with foreign players listed. The face of college hoops will change as players either come out or stay in the draft, so the watch begins.

The Boston Celtics tripped the Orlando Magic last evening to even their series at one game apiece.  Former Duke standout JJ Redick was ejected from the game after arguing a call which gave him his sixth foul.

Duke Baseball swept Presbyterian and prepares for a stretch run in hopes of gaining a bid to the ACC Baseball Tournament which will be held in Durham Athletic Park, home of the Durham Bulls.  LINK

Zack Greer is a candidate for the Tewaaraton Trophy, the highest individual honor in collegiate lacrosse. He is the only one of the five finalists announced Tuesday by the Tewaaraton Foundation who will not be able to advance his case further in the upcoming NCAA tournament. Greer, who finished tied with former Duke teammate Matt Danowski with 353 career points, used his final season of eligibility to play for Bryant and former Duke coach Mike Pressler. He also owns the Division I record with 206 goals. He helped the Bulldogs to a 10-5 record, but the Bryant program is transitioning to Division I and is not yet eligible for the national championship. Greer was among the Duke players who lost a season when the program was shut down following rape allegations against three players. The players were later cleared and all the members of the team who had eligibility left were given another year by the NCAA. Greer chose to transfer to Bryant.

Blue Devil Nation Premium will cover this weekend's Southern Invitational where members will hear from Josh Hairston, Andre Dawkins and Tyler Thornton among other prospects.   So, be sure to stay close to the message board and site this weekend.

Duke Basketball, USA Basketball

The Duke Blue Devils men’s team celebrate their 2009 accomplishments

poaulussThe Duke Men's Basketball Awards Banquet was held this past Friday evening in Cameron Indoor Stadium and serves as a season ending celebration.  For those in attendance there is that feeling of being a part of the team as you listen the seniors give emotional and personal speeches.  The voice of the Blue Devils, Bob Harris, got the evening started and he soon gave way to Athletic Director Kevin White.

White made it quite clear that Mike Krzyzewski had been a big factor when he interviewed for the job and ultimately left Notre Dame.   It was clear that White realized K's accomplishments as he presented him with the Amos Alonzo Stagg trophy.

Krzyzewski took to the podium, where he acknowledged appreciation for the crowd that gathered and looked out adoringly to his family, introducing each and every one in one fell swoop.  His family has always played a big role in the awards banquets, coming up with themes and video highlights features for the seniors and assigning each their own individual song.

Just in front of Krzyzewski's table sat the 2009 Atlantic Coast Conference Champions trophy and he let everybody know of how proud he was of that accomplishment.  We should all recognize that Duke won thirty games against a schedule ranked number one in the RPI and that, when the chips were down after a loss to Boston College, masterful adjustments led to the ACC crown and a number two seed in the NCAA Tournament.

This was, after all, a new staff with the addition of Nate James and the departure of Johnny Dawkins to Stanford.  Not only did Dawkins leave, but so did Mike Scragge, the head of basketball operations.  K's son-in-law, Chris Spatola, took over that job and Chris Carrawell came aboard as well and both may be in line to coach one day.

The point is that Duke persevered by making changes before and after the season.  With a team that had no dominant center and a point guard by committee, this w,as in my opinion, one of Coach K and his staff's finer jobs.  Had the average fan been given the opportunity to take the aforementioned thirty wins, ACC title and Sweet 16 going into this season, I'm pretty sure they would have said, fine by me.

But Krzyzewski knows that it takes players to perform and he was quick to thank them for the experience of coaching them and this was genuine adoration, not just coach-speak.  He then gave way to his assistant coaches who handed out individual awards where Jon Scheyer, Kyle Singler and Gerald Henderson were named MVP's.

Coach Collins was his perpetually exuberant self as he handed out each award, and Wojo limped to the stage on a crutch due to recently suffering an ACL injury in a pick-up game.  Nate James made his first appearance and some of the players mentioned how good it was to have a guy like him around.  Heck, Coach K even called him "Nate Dogg," as the crowd let out laughter.

But despite funny cracks all the way around, it may have been Marty Pocius who stole the show.  He alluded to the fact that his first roommate left for Arizona State and then his second to California and wondered out loud, is it me?  He then mentioned that both went a long way west to get away.   Pocius then stated that he was assigned a walk-on for a roommate the next season.

Marty also joked of his language curve and how hard it was for a Lithuanian to learn English.  "I'd be sitting around in the locker room and be listening to a joke and everybody would start laughing.  By the time I caught up with it and laughed they had moved on to the next joke."

After each senior spoke, Krzyzewski would finish up with some comments and introduce the next one in line.  When he came to Dave McClure, he stated that he just got a text from Matt Christensen with his well wishes.  This again brought a laugh from the crowd for Christensen had a longer stint at Duke than, well, anybody.  McClure's injuries made it seem like he was here for almost as long.  Even Pocius jokingly referred to him as "Uncle McClure."

But when Dave was at the podium flashbacks of one of the most selfless players in Duke history filled my head.  They, of course, showed that awesome shot to win the game versus Clemson a bit later in his tribute video.

When it was time for Greg Paulus to have his turn, Krzyzewski showed the highest admiration, reminiscing on when he recruited him and how tough he was.  While he certainly didn't mention some of his detractors, he made sure that all knew that during Greg's four years that Duke went 112-28, which averaged out to 28 wins a season.

Paulus was grateful for the comments and walked off the round stage with the dignity of a champion, an ACC Champion.   It's not often that a three year starter can accept a new role for the betterment of his team, and Paulus gave his heart and soul to Duke during his four years.

During some of the awards, a hoot or holler if you will, rang out for Gerald Henderson to stay.  But those in the know realized that the talented "G" or Hendo was just hours before he was to announce that he would be entering the NBA Draft.

I suppose some would have liked to hear a farewell speech from Gerald, but this night is traditionally set aside for seniors.  While I certainly hope Henderson will return, my sources say he is likely gone and Duke fans should not hold that against him for he served the royal blue well.

Maybe that's why Krzyzewski didn't really talk as much about next season as he has in past events, but maybe he just wanted these kids to enjoy their championship.  Before the hall of fame coach made his final trip to the podium, the 2009 Atlantic Coast Conference Champions banner fell from above and K stood under it to applause from the diehard fans who were there.

He then called his team up and, once they settled together, the championship trophy was hoisted high by Brian Zoubek as the circular stage turned so all the crowd could see.  It was a proud moment for all and the smiling faces of the players, the fans and family alike is what makes this event special.  Quite simply, it was a celebration of accomplishments, and the history books will always have Duke crowned the 2009 ACC Champs.

Men's Banquet Photo Gallery is located in the menu to your right.
2008-09 Duke Men's Basketball Award Winners (courtesy GoDuke.com)

Swett-Baylin Award (Most Valuable Player): Gerald Henderson, Jon Scheyer, Kyle Singler
Dr. Deryl Hart Award (Top Scholar-Athlete): Greg Paulus
Glenn E. "Ted" Mann, Jr., Award (Reserve Contributing Most to Team Morale): Elliot Williams
Coach's Award (Player Exemplifying the Commitment and Values of Duke Basketball): Lance Thomas
Iron Dukes Award (Most Minutes Played): Jon Scheyer
Bill Krzyzewski Captains' Awards: Gerald Henderson, Greg Paulus, Jon Scheyer
Best Field Goal Percentage Award: Gerald Henderson
Best Rebounding Average Award: Kyle Singler
Best Free Throw Percentage Award: Jon Scheyer
Most Assists Award: Jon Scheyer
Best Defensive Player Award: Gerald Henderson
Gopal Varadhan Senior Manager Award: Joey McMahon, Griffin Tormey
Harry Rainey Spirit Award: Elise Rose
Charles Hogan Memorial Band Award: John Roelofs

Duke Football, Duke Women's Basketball, USA Basketball

News on Waner, Henderson, Duke Football and McDonald’s All American Game

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We've been really busy with hoops recruiting of late and missed getting a bit of news out there. Here are some releases from Duke Sports Information -

Abby Waner To Participate In The State Farm Three-Point Championship

DURHAM, N.C.
Duke University senior Abby Waner has been selected one of eight senior student-athletes to participate in the 21st Annual State Farm College Slam Dunk and Three-Point Championships at the Palace of Auburn Hills on Thursday, April 2 in conjunction with the NCAA Men’s Basketball Final Four.

The contest will take place at 7:30 p.m., and then will air on ESPN from 9:00-11:00 p.m.

Waner, who is a product of Highlands Ranch, Colo., concluded her collegiate career as one of the top three-point shooters in Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) history. A 5-11 guard, Waner registered 222 career treys over four years to rank 12th on the ACC charts and first in the Blue Devil history books. She became the first Duke player and eighth ACC player to register 45 or more three-pointers in four consecutive years. Her 691 career three-pointers attempted ranks seventh in ACC history and first at Duke. Not only did Waner hit three-pointers, but she was a great all-around student-athlete as she became the fifth player in ACC history to notch over 1,400 points, 400 rebounds, 400 assists and 300 steals. Waner was also a two-time ESPN The Magazine Academic All-District selection. A two-time Naismith National Player of the Year candidate, Waner received the 2009 Robin Roberts/WBCA Broadcasting Scholarship and was a finalist for the Lowe’s Senior Class Award in 2009. She is a three-time All-ACC Tournament first team selection. As a senior, Waner averaged 9.7 points, 3.5 assists, 3.1 rebounds and 2.7 steals, while registering 55 three-pointers made.

Season tickets are available by calling the Duke Athletic Ticket Office at 1-877-375-DUKE or by logging on to GoDuke.com.


Duke Athletics Tour Schedule Set

DURHAM, N.C. -- The second annual Duke Athletics Tour featuring head football coach David Cutcliffe has secured eight stops between April 18 and May 21.  The 2009 tour includes events in Charlotte (April 28), Asheville (April 29), Greenville (May 5), Richmond, Va. (May 6), Atlanta, Ga. (May 14), Sanford/Pinehurst (May 18), Greenville, S.C. (May 20) and Greensboro/High Point/Winston-Salem (May 21). All events are open to the public and will feature an autograph and photo opportunity with Cutcliffe, food and beverages and door prizes.

Dates for events in both Durham and Raleigh will be announced at a later time. "Last year's inaugural Duke Athletics Tour was a huge success," said Cutcliffe. "We're looking forward to spending time with our alumni and fans once again this spring."

For more information, please visit www.IronDukes.net or call Samantha Kozub (919-613-7554) or Whitney Dunlap (919-613-7557).

2009 DUKE ATHLETICS TOUR

CHARLOTTE, NC
April 28
5:30-7:00 pm
Blackfinn American Saloon
210 East Trade (Epicentre)
Charlotte, NC 28202

ASHEVILLE, NC
April 29
5:30-7:00 pm
Pack Place - The Forum
2 South Pack Square
Asheville, NC 28801

GREENVILLE, NC
May 5
5:30-7:00 pm
Ronald C. Michels Center
2335 Hemby Lane
Greenville, NC 27834

RICHMOND, VA
May 6
5:30-7:00 pm
Roslyn Conference Center
8727 River Road
Richmond, VA 23229

ATLANTA, GA
May 14
6:00-7:30 pm
Fox Sports Grill
261 19th Street
Atlanta, GA 30363

SANFORD/PINEHURST, NC
May 18
5:30-7:00 pm
The Barn
305 Rothney Avenue
Southern Pines, NC 28387

GREENVILLE, SC
May 20
5:30-7:00 pm
Wild Wing Cafe
15 West Washington Street
Greenville, SC 29601

GREENSBORO/HIGH POINT/WINSTON-SALEM, NC
May 21


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - Henderson named All American

Wednesday, April 1

Henderson Named To 2009 Wooden All-American Team

LOS ANGELES - Junior Gerald Henderson was one of 11 players named to the 2009 John R. Wooden Award All-American Team as announced by the John R. Wooden Award Committee on Wednesday. Henderson picks up his third All-America honor of the season as he was also a second team selection by Foxsports.com and an Associated Press third team pick.

Henderson led the Blue Devils to a 30-7 record, the program's 11th ACC Championship and a trip to the NCAA Tournament Sweet Sixteen. He was tied for the team lead in scoring at 16.5 points per game, while also ranking second in rebounding (4.9 rpg.) and assists (91) and third in blocked shots (28) and steals (46). Henderson scored in double figures 31 times in 2008-09, including 11 games with 20 or more points scored.

A panel of more than 1,000 voters, comprised of sports media members and college basketball experts from around the nation, had until Monday to cast their votes, a long voting period that allowed voters to evaluate players up through games of the Elite Eight of the NCAA Tournament. Voters selected 10 players from the 24 student athletes listed on the ballot, and ranked them from 1 to 10. Wooden Award Voters were asked to take into account performance during the regular season and postseason through games last Sunday, as well as a player's character and academic performance, essential components of an outstanding player in the eyes of Coach John Wooden.

Because of a tie for 10th place in the voting, this year the Wooden All American Team consists of 11 players. The team in alphabetical order is DeJuan Blair (Pittsburgh), Stephen Curry (Davidson), Blake Griffin (Oklahoma), Tyler Hansbrough (North Carolina), Luke Harangody (Notre Dame), James Harden (Arizona State), Gerald Henderson (Duke), Ty Lawson (North Carolina), Hasheem Thabeet (Connecticut), Terrence Williams (Louisville) and Sam Young (Pittsburgh).

North Carolina and Pittsburgh both had two players selected to the team. The 2009 All American team features three seniors (Hansbrough, Williams and Young) five juniors, and three sophomores. The Big East tops the list with five Wooden All Americans, followed by the ACC with three. The Pac-10, Southern and Big 12 each have one representative.

Additionally, the top vote-getters and finalists for the Wooden Award, are invited to Los Angeles for the Wooden Award gala. The top finalists will be announced on Monday, April 6. The 2009 Award ceremony, which will include the presentation of the Men's and Women's Wooden Award winners, the Wooden Award All American Teams, and the Legends of Coaching Award to Rick Barnes of the University of Texas, will take place at The Los Angeles Athletic Club in Downtown Los Angeles on Friday, April 10th. The winners will receive a contribution from The Los Angeles Athletic Club for their university's general scholarship fund.

Men's 2009 Wooden Award All-American Team
DeJuan Blair Pittsburgh
Stephen Curry # Davidson
Blake Griffin Oklahoma
Tyler Hansbrough ! North Carolina
Luke Harangody # Notre Dame
James Harden Arizona State
Gerald Henderson Duke
Ty Lawson North Carolina
Hasheem Thabeet Connecticut
Terrence Williams Louisville
Sam Young Pittsburgh

! - 2008 Wooden Award Winner
# - 2008 Wooden All American Team

04/01/2009 - Associated Press

McDonald's All American Game

CORAL GABLES, Fla. – Duke commitments Ryan Kelly and Mason Plumlee showcased their talent at the 32nd annual McDonald’s High School All-American game on Wednesday at the Bank United Center in Coral Gables, Fla.

Kelly, who won the three point shootout on Monday, started for the East squad and helped lead them to a 113-110 victory over Plumlee’s West team. The 6’10” Raleigh native, who attends Ravenscroft School, finished the game with six points and two rebounds.

Plumlee, a 6’11 forward from Warsaw, Ind. currently attends the Christ School in Arden, N.C. He tallied six points, four rebounds, two assists, two blocked shots and one steal for the West squad. Plumlee’s three-point attempt at the buzzer that would have tied the game hit off the rim.

Kelly and Plumlee increase Duke’s total to 51 McDonald’s All-Americans. Blue Devils coach Mike Krzyzewski has coached all 49 of the previous selections, including current players Gerald Henderson, Greg Paulus, Jon Scheye, Kyle Single, Nolan Smit, Lance Thomas and Elliot William. Duke has had at least one participant in every McDonald’s All-American game since 1994.

All proceeds from the game will go to the Ronald McDonald House Charities of South Florida. Millions of dollars have been raised since the first Game was played in 1978. Every athlete who participated in the McDonald’s All American Game visited a local Ronald McDonald House in Miami earlier this week to experience first-hand how the games impact the local community.