Ezeigbo, Flakes, Earn TCCC Honors

PLAYER OF THE WEEK – Eastern Nazarene College junior center Chima Ezeigbo (Roanoke, Va.) enjoyed a very strong individual week, as he averaged 17.7 points, 8.7 rebounds, 2.0 blocked shots and 1.7 steals per game over three contests, while shooting a stellar 72% from the field (23-of-32). Ezegibo hit eight of 12 field goal attempts in both of ENC’s first two games of the week. He just missed a double-double with 17 points and nine rebounds in a 94-80 loss to Drew in the week’s opening game, but he followed with a 19-point, 10-rebound double-double in a 73-57 triumph over Mitchell. Ezegibo closed out the week with 17 points on 7-of-8 shooting along with seven rebounds in a last-second 58-55 loss to undefeated New England College. 

ROOKIE OF THE WEEK – Eastern Nazarene College freshman forward John Flakes (Boston, Mass.) averaged 14.3 points and 7.7 rebounds over a week in which the Lions posted a 1-2 weekly record. He collected 17 points and six rebounds in a 94-80 loss to Drew, recorded 14 points and six boards in a 73-57 victory over Mitchell, and crafted a 12-point, 11-rebound double-double in a last-second 58-55 setback to New England College. Over the week, Flakes shot a strong 62% from the field (16-of-26) and 73% from the line (11-of-15). 


Note: To view the complete news release, please visit http://www.thecommonwealthcoastconference.com/sports/releases1011/dec6.pdf .

Running Diary: ENC vs. NEC

Today's Starting Lineups:

For New England College:
Shane Hennessey
Andrew MacDonald
Spencer Marzouk
Joe Faragher
Jason Minerve

ENC Starters:
DeAngelo Alston
Aaron Johnson
Johnny Atwater
John Flakes
Chima Ezeigbo

(4:05) We are underway. Ezeigbo wins the tip but ENC quickly turns the ball over.

(4:08) Quick start for Ezeigbo, he's on a 5-0 run by himself. 5-0 ENC, 18:00 to go in the half.

(4:11) After a Flakes jumper from 15 feet out, ENC is up 7-0, and NEC calls the first time out of the game. 16:29 left in the half.

(4:15) Both teams disgruntled over fouls on their bigs on illegal screens. Both looked clean and the one against Ezeigbo seemed to be a make up call. NEC has come out of their timeout with an 8-0 run. 8-7 NEC, 14:25 1st Half.

(4:24) NEC is on a good string defensively. ENC has 4 points ever since NEC called a timeout after the 7-0 ENC run to start the game. Timeout ENC 18-11 NEC, over 9 minutes left.

(4:34) After being able to cut the deficit to 6, ENC has struggled to score. 27-19 NEC, with 4 to go.

(4:37) ENC is extending their defensive pressure on the basketball. Forced NEC to call a timeout in one possession.

(4:45) NEC played good defense throughout the half, hold ENC to . ENC has also played adequet defense, but haven't been able to get anything, other than their 7-0 run to start the game, together offensively. The referee crew has been poor at best, on both sides so it doesn't excuse ENC's play. No consistency, both coach's have had words with them. At the half NEC is up 32-22.

ENC's leading scorer in the half were John Flakes and C.J. Gonzales, who had 10 each. ENC was held to 29% shooting.  NEC didn't shoot particularly well either 36%. The difference is NEC's 43% behind the arc equaling 18 points, to ENC's 0-10 behind the arc.

(5:00) We're off and running in the second half. Trading baskets thus far, 37-26 NEC, 18:00 to play.

(5:05) Two quick fouls on Aaron Johnson, gives him 4 fouls on the game and a seat on the bench. The first was an absolute embarrassment of a call. Johnson was called for a charge when the defender prematurely flopped, creating little to no contact. The second was a tick tack call as he was defending a drive.

(5:15) An intentional foul was called against NEC. Chima went 1-2 at the line and hit a hook shot to cut the lead to 6. Timeout NEC, 45-39 NEC, 11:20 left.

(5:19) Three missed opportunities for ENC. After forcing 3 turnover they failed to capitalize on the offensive end. The score remains 45-39 NEC, 9 minutes left.

(5:20) A missed NEC shot and ENC comes down the courts to find John Cramer hit a 3 pointer in the corner, right in front of his bench. Timeout NEC, 45-42 NEC, 8:36 left in regulation.

(5:25) Aaron Johnson hits a 3 to tie, NEC come back down and hits a layup. Ezeigbo went to the line and went 1-2. 47-46 NEC, 6 to play.

(5:29) John Flakes gives ENC their first lead since 7-6. 48-47 ENC, 4:28 left.

(5:33) NEC takes the lead back by two after a three, ENC comes down and Cramer hits yet another big 3. An ENC steal gave them a 2 on 1 fast break that ended with a Flakes layup, assisted by Alston. Timeout NEC, 53-50 ENC, 2:37 left.

(5:35) NEC goes on a 5-0 run. Take a 2 point lead. 55-53 NEC, 26 ticks left.

(5:38) DeAngelo drives to the hoop, get fouled, and hit two clutch free throws. 55's all, 15 seconds in regulation.

(5:42) After a pair of turnover's NEC has the ball with 1.4 left in the game. Andrew MacDonald hits a game winning 3 as time expires. 58-55, final, NEC.

ENC Classic: Day 2

New England College defeated Lancaster Bible 75-53 last night and will meet Eastern Nazarene in the championship round of the ENC Classic at 4 p.m.

The consolation game is being played right now between Lancaster Bible and Mitchell College, who was defeated by the Lions last night 73-57. We have just under 16 minutes left in regulation with Lancaster Bible out in front 49-28.

Most of the ENC roster is suited up and spectating the consolation game behind the Lancaster bench. DeAngelo Alston said the team is "ready to go." Alston was also poking fun at assistant coach Ricardo Jean-Noel, who made his coaching debut last night, saying that his pregame speech was riveting and "pumped me up."

No red blazer for coach Jim Aller today. If you look back to last night's running diary you'll see a comparison to Bruce Pearl in turns of his game apparel.

New England College enter this evening game undefeated at 6-0. The Pilgrims haven't faced the toughest of competition but they did defeat Suffolk who beat ENC in the season opener. NEC's leading scorer is senior captain Joe Faragher. The North Ridgeville native is averaging 12.7 points a game and had 6 points and 10 rebounds last night against Lancaster.

Sophomore Aaron Johnson comes in as the Lions leading scorer, at a tune of 15.5 a game.

The consolation game is all but over. With a bit over 2 minutes in the game Lancaster Bible has a commanding 81-59 lead.

We have a final in the consolation game between Lancaster Bible and Mitchell College. The Chargers of Lancaster defeated Mitchell 85-61. ENC vs. NEC up next. 4:10 tip.

Starting lineups for the ENC game will be coming soon.

ENC is out and warming up:

ENC vs. Mitchell Game Story

The Eastern Nazarene men’s basketball team took control early in the opening game of the ENC Classic and never looked back as they registered a 73-57 victory.

ENC came out with an 8-0 run, after Mitchell sunk the first two shots of the game. The Lions were able to obtain a double-digit lead with 4:27 left in the first half and kept the lead throughout the rest of the half as the Lions head into the locker room with a 40-27 advantage.

A string of plays broke the game open in the second half as freshman forward Johnny Flakes was able to dunk the ball in transition after a pass from Chima Ezeigbo. Ezeigbo was able to block a shot that created a transition three pointer by Aaron Johnson. Another Mitchell turnover turned into a John Cramer lay up and a commanding 58-39 lead for ENC.

Ezeigbo was able to attain his fifth double-double of the season, collecting 19 points, on 8 for 12 shooting, and 10 rebounds. Johnson tacked in a game high 20 points, and Flakes contributed to the winning effort with 14 points.

Mitchell College had four players in double figures. Leading the way was Julio Contreras with 12, scoring 11 was Tim Quinn and Alex Del Rio, and while Patrick Nielson had 10.

Eastern Nazarene will play the winner of New England College and Lancaster Bible, in the championship game, at 4 p.m.

Running Diary: ENC vs. Mitchell

(4:23 P.M.) Welcome to tonight's running diary updating you scores and highlights from the annual ENC Men's Basketball Tournament. ENC will face off against Mitchell at 6, followed by TCCC foe New England College versus Lancaster Bible.

Few thoughts before the day gets under way. ENC is trying to rebound after a disastrous defensive game against Drew. The Lions gave up 94 points to Drew, a season high. Look for them to come out much stronger on the defensive side of the ball.

DeAngelo Alston will suite up tonight after missing Tuesday night's game against Drew. Alston suffered a minor ankle injury against St. Joe's (NY) last Saturday and didn't play Tuesday for precautionary reasons.

Alston shot around earlier in the day, around 4:00 P.M., and looked focused and ready to go.

(5:20 P.M.) A friendly game a horse before pregame lines.

(5:30 P.M.) A little bit of news tonight. Making his debut as Assistant Coach for the Lions is former Crusader basketball player (05-07) Ricardo Jean-Noel.

(5:45 P.M.) It doesn't look like we're starting at 6. Mitchell has yet to arrive to ENC. After a 30 minute shoot around the Lions have gone to the locker room.

(5:52 P.M.) An update on tip-off. Mitchell just arrive on campus and are currently in the visitor's locker room. A NEW START TIME OF 6:20.

(6:05 P.M.) ENC Starter's for tonight:
1- DeAngelo Alston
2- Aaron Johnson
3- Johnny Atwater
4- John Flakes
5- Chima Ezeigbo

Note: Coach Jim Aller is sporting a phenomenal Bruce Pearl like suit jacket. It's not orange, obviously, but red. For those of you who don't know Pearl he is the head coach of the Tennessee University Vols, here's a pic. Imagine this jacket but red:

Mitchell Starters:
Mercury Fiske
Julio Contreras
Tim Quinn
Tre Brooks
Tyler Blier

Mitchell let back 5 players due to injuries and other undisclosed reasons. The Mariners come into tonight's contest sporting a 1-5 record. The Lions are 3-3 on the year.

(6:25) And away we go. Game time. After a 4-0 run for Mitchell to start the game ENC has responded with a 8-0 run of their own. Mitchell has taken a full time out with 16:19 in the 1st half.

A monster dunk, and one, by Chima. Made layup. DeAngelo stole the ball and proceeded to take it himself for the layup. 17-10 ENC.

Good stretch for ENC on both ends of the courts, highlighted by an Aaron Johnson steal and one layup in transition. 36-23 ENC,  4:27 left in the half.

We're at the half 40-27 ENC.  Efficient offense by the Lions, they are looking good in both the half court and transition. Good half overall, could have been better. Both Aaron Johnson and John Flakes have 10 points to lead the Lions at the half.

(7:15) The second half is underway as ENC posses the ball. ENC starts off the half with 6 to Mitchell's 3. Mitchell takes a timeout as the 6 ENC points are from layups.

A string of highlight plays. Flakes showed good hands deflecting a pass, which Chima ended up with. Chima with a great outlet to Flakes to start a transition that ended with a Flakes dunk. Mitchell's next possession was halted by a vicious swat by Chima. A Johnson 3 followed by another Mitchell turnover, which lead to a layup opportunity for John Cramer, and we have a full timeout by Mitchell. 58-39 ENC, 12:24 left in the game.

Mitchell is on a 7-0 run, which should be 9-0 but Alex Del Rio, a Mitchell guard, missed a breakaway lay up. 58-46 ENC, 9:43 in the half.

The scoring drought, and Mitchell run is over, Aaron Johnson with yet another ENC layup.

Minor fright, DeAngelo took was up and took a spill around half court. He retained possession and called a timeout, and walk off the court with no noticeable limp. Alston has had foot troubles before. 64- 50 ENC, 5:38 left in regulation.

ENC is in the midst of a 12-4 run, putting an end to a comeback. 70-50 ENC, 2:15 left in the game. Should be able to ride this game out. As I'm typing the 5 bench players enter the game for ENC. Looks like Coach Aller is comfortable with this lead. 1:30 to go.

Corban Clinkscale enters the game with 47 seconds left to a standing ovation from the crowd. It was a Scal like moment.

It's all over here at ENC, 73-57 final ENC. Post game notes to come.

Chima collected his 5th double-double of the season, 19 points and 10 boards.
Aaron Johnson had a game high 20 points.
Johnny Flakes contributed with 14 points.

Good performance by ENC, still plenty to work on. I'm sure coach Aller will find enough material in the game tape. ENC is 4-3 on the year, their best start in quite some time. In the end a win, is a win, is a win, and you can't complain about that.

Imbeaux Out

By: Juan Rivera

(Quincy, Mass.) J.J Imbeaux had quite a short stint, six games, as the assistant coach of the Lions. After being hired days before the season opener Imbeaux resigned from his position on Wednesday. The reasoning of his parting is unknown for right now.


The players were informed of his departure just before practice time Wednesday.


Maybe coaching basketball wasn't Imbeaux's calling. From what I know of J.J. it very well may be soccer. For those of you who didn't know he was quite the soccer player. Imbeaux played basketball and soccer in high school at Fort Zumwalt North in St. Louis, Mo, but excelled at soccer. 

He continued his soccer playing career at St. Louis University, where he received his bachelor's degree in 2003 in international business/marketing. While at St. Louis, his team won Conference USA titles in all 4 years of his career. He also garnered first team all conference and all region honors his sophomore and junior years.[ENC Athletic Site]

Imbeaux then went on to play professional soccer on three continents, including Malmo, Sweden, where his team finished second in the league; Australia, where he captained the Brisbane Strikers and won the country's championship at the highest level; and South Korea, where he played for the Pusan I'con's and was the league's fourth-leading scorer while winning a championship there as well. He finished his playing career in Moscow, Russia, where he played in several European Cup matches and was a part of two championship squads there.[ENC Athletic Site]

I'll make sure to post if I hear of any confirmed reason of why Imbeaux left. If your at all interested hear is his twitter page: J.J. Imbeaux

Off on the Right Foot

Weeks before the men’s basketball season tipped off head coach Jim Aller was asked about the direction of the program. Aller’s response was, “Our overall competitive level is much higher in practices than last year. To be where we want to be as a program we must start with being competitive and good things will happen.”

Through the first six games of the 2010-2011 campaign ENC basketball has been just that, competitive. Their compete level has been high thus far, resulting in a three game winning streak, the program‘s first such streak since 2004, and a 3-3 overall record.

The formula to their early season success has been simple. If each individual player brings a game like climate to practice, and accepts their role, the hard work and team play will translate on game days.

Coach Aller still has a young team on his hands. Of the 16 players on the roster, 10 are underclassmen, which makes it hard on the coaching staff to get through to every player. Hence, why teams regularly have captains at the college level.

There are times where a peer can get through, or set an example, better than a coach. Johnny Atwater and DeAngelo Alston are both taking the responsibility in stride and more importantly are well respected within the locker room.

Atwater, known as Aquaman by his teammates, is the type of player every coach clamors for. For one, he’s talented, he’s coachable, which is a tremendous asset nowadays, a hard worker, a diligent student of the game, and his aura commands respect.

“Johnny is who he is,” say Aller, “He leads by example. He provides so much for us on the court.”

Alston is the vocal one of the two. Even when he was sidelined Alston would attentively watch practices and shout out instruction, especially to the guards, and even pull players aside, no matter the position, to let him know right from wrong.

ENC fell 94-80 against Drew University on November 30th, a game where Alston was sidelined due to a minor ankle injury (to the opposite foot from the stress fracture that forced him to miss all of 2009-2010...ENC, you may now exhale) suffered at St. Joe’s (NY) three days prior.

80 points is 80 points and many may look at the score and say “we gave up 94, we just didn’t show up on defense”, which is true, but the lack of a true point guard on the court miffed our chances of a second half comeback.

Don’t underestimate the duties of a point guard. A PG directs traffic, puts his teammates in positions to succeed, reads defenses, and much more. Alston is a gifted offensive mind that was sorely missed against Drew.

Two weeks into the season and the team is off on the right foot. Six games, six competitive games, which puts the program on track. ENC will host their Annual Men’s Basketball Tournament this coming Friday and Saturday, then it's off to southern California.

Rangers Pull Away Late to Come Out With Road Win

ENC Athletic Site: Published: 2010-11-30

Drew University and Eastern Nazarene College exchanged blows throughout Tuesday night’s non-conference men’s basketball game but in the final eight minutes, Drew was able to pull away and leave ENC’s Lahue PE Center with the 94-80 victory.

After being ahead just three at halftime, Drew was overcome by a stretch of impressive play by the hosting Lions that tied the game at 57 apiece midway through the second period. Ranger freshman Luke Glass stepped up and hit two three pointers that gave his team a six point lead that they would stretch out to their eventually winning margin of 14 points.

Drew was led by junior guard Asmar Capers who scored a game high 28 points. Capers also dished out 8 assists and grabbed 6 rebounds. Sophomore Terrell Brown tied for the game lead in rebounds with nine while also chipping in 15 points of his own. Glass and senior Kyle Joyce contributed to the offense with 14 and 13 points respectively.

For the Lions, post players Chima Ezeigbo and John Flakes continued their dominating inside play scoring 17 points each to lead the offense and Ezeigbo pulled in 8 rebounds while Flakes gathered 6. Sophomore Aaron Johnson grabbed 9 rebounds to go with his 11 points while teammate C.J. Gonzales scored 10 points.

The Lions will look to get their winning streak re-started this weekend as they host a tournament at ENC involving New England College, Lancaster Bible College and Mitchell College. The Lions will play their first game of the two-day event on Friday at 6pm against Mitchell College.

Lions Cruise to Third Straight Victory

ENC Athletic Site: Published: 2010-11-27

The Eastern Nazarene men’s basketball team controlled the lead throughout the entire game as the Lions rolled over St. Joseph’s College 73-60 for their third straight victory. The Lions fought off a late Bears comeback attempt with solid defense to secure the 13 point road win Saturday evening.

The Lions got off to a quick start and never looked back as they overtook the lead just over three minutes into the opening period and led for the final 36 minutes. The Lions led by double digits throughout most of the game but late in the second half, St. Joe’s cut the lead to just 6 points win just over 5 minutes remaining but the Lions were able to extend the lead back out to a double digit margin and cruise to the 13 point victory.

The Senior guard DeAngelo Alston paced the Lions’ offense with 17 points while fellow guard Aaron Johnson led all players in both steals and assists with 5 of each. Johnson also scored 8 points and pulled in 6 rebounds. Junior forward C.J. Gonzales added 12 points while Chima Ezeigbo chipped in 11 points while pulling down 9 rebounds, falling just one shy of what would have been a 5th straight double-double. Freshman forward John Flakes continued his dominance in the paint scoring 8 points pulling down 17 rebounds to lead all players.

The win was the Lions’ third in a row improving their record to 3-2 on the young season after losing two nail biters on the road to start off the year.

The Lions will look to extend their winning streak to four games on Tuesday as they host non-conference Drew University. Tip off is set for 6pm.

Lions Roll to 22 Point Win Over Lesley

Chima Ezeigbo scored 20 points and grabbed 12 rebounds for his fourth straight double double in Tuesday night's win.

 

ENC Athletic Site: Published: 2010-11-23  

 

Chima Ezeigbo registered his fourth straight double-double and John Flakes scored a game and career high 21 points as the Eastern Nazarene College men’s basketball team rolled to an 80-58 victory against non-conference Lesley University Tuesday night.

 

The first half featured fast paced offense and high flying rebounding that led to four lead changes in the first 20 minutes. After the dust settled, Eastern Nazarene went into the locker room with a 7 point first half lead.

 

Lesley came out firing in the second half and quickly narrowed the Lions’ lead to just five. The two teams traded baskets throughout the second half as the Eastern Nazarene lead was still just 7 with just under eight minutes to play. A Flakes free throw and an Aaron Johnson three pointer stretch the lead to 11 and the Lions carried the momentum to the finish.

 

Leading the Lions was Ezeigbo who finished with 20 points and 12 rebounds. Flakes scored 21 points while grabbing 8 rebounds and 3 blocks. Johnson added 16 points to go along with his 7 assists and 5 steals. Senior point guard DeAngelo Alston directed the offense with 7 assists and 7 points.

 

For Lesley, Junior John Sanchez scored 13 points while dishing out a game high 8 assists and getting three steals. Jesus Trejo scored nine points while grabbing 6 rebounds. Harold Smith added 8 points and 3 rebounds.

 

Eastern Nazarene will look to keep their winning streak going when they travel to St. Joseph’s College in Brooklyn this Saturday. Tip- off is set for 5pm at Brooklyn Tech High School.

ENC Come’s Out on Top in Saturday Night Showdown

Aaron Johnson's went 7-9 from three point range in the Lions' home-opening win Saturday night.

ENC Athletic Site: Published: 2010-11-20

In a showdown of “Lions”, the men’s basketball teams of Eastern Nazarene and Wheaton Colleges traded blows throughout forty minutes of drama and excitement Saturday night but it was the ENC Lions that were able to come out on top with the 63-60 victory.

Late three point daggers were thrown back and forth but it was a put back tip in by Eastern Nazarene freshman John Flakes that put the Lions up by a point with time ticking down. Eastern Nazarene defended a Wheaton jumper with 8 seconds remaining and Chima Ezeigbo gathered the rebound before getting sent to the foul line to ice the game with two free throws with 1.6 seconds remaining.

Eastern Nazarene went into halftime with a three point lead and the momentum looked to be swinging in the home team’s direction. But the Lyons of Wheaton played tough defense and hit clutch shots throughout the second half to tie the final 20 minutes of play 37-37.

Wheaton was led by two players in double figures as Anthony Coppola and Cliften Desravines scored 16 and 12 points respectively. Desravines coupled 12 rebounds with his scoring putting him in a group of three players on the night with double-doubles. Anthony Weeks added 9 points for the Lyons while Will Bayliss contributed 8.

For Eastern Nazarene, sophomore Aaron Johnson led all players in scoring as he notched his season high of 27 points. Johnson added 10 rebounds and 5 assists to his spotlighted effort. Ezeigbo scored 11 points and pulled down 12 rebounds for the Lions while Flakes added 10 points to the winning cause. Senior point guard DeAngelo Alston led all players with 6 assists.

The win brings Eastern Nazarene to 1-2 on the season while the loss gets Wheaton off to an 0-2 start. Eastern Nazarene will remain at home in their next game on Tuesday against non-conference opponent Lesley University. Tip off is set for 7pm.   

Lions Drop Heartbreaker at UMass Boston

ENC Athletic Site: Published: 2010-11-18

An Eastern Nazarene three pointer just missed the back of the rim and a put back attempt rattled out following an offensive rebound resulting in a win for the UMass Boston men’s basketball team in their season and home opener Thursday night in the Clark Athletic Center.

Over the final ten minutes of the second half, Eastern Nazarene battled back from deficits of 11 and 13 to draw within two with just seven seconds remaining. The Lions gathered a loose ball and pushed it down the court to find senior guard DeAngelo Alston waiting in the corner. Alston’s shot skimmed over the rim to Lion freshman John Flakes whose putback bounced off the rim into the hands of UMass Boston to end the game giving the Beacons the 69-67 victory.

UMass Boston was led sophomore guard Jason White who registered 17 points while shooting 6 of 11 from the field. Freshmen Dontreal Thomas and Mark Reddick each contributed ten points. Senior forward Pat Joseph grabbed a team high 9 rebounds and blocked a shot to go along with his 3 assists in the Beacon victory.

Junior center Chima Ezeigbo scored 20 points, gathered 13 rebounds and blocked 6 shots to anchor the Lions. Freshman John Flakes Jr. tallied 19 points while grabbing 10 boards and blocking 4 shots. Aaron Johnson contributed to the Lions comeback efforts with 15 points and 7 rebounds. Alston ran the offense efficiently dishing out 7 assists while scoring 7 points and grabbing 3 rebounds.

The Lions played with intensity throughout and gathered momentum late in the second half. These spurts of dominance look to be signs that the young team is heading in a positive direction and will have a chance to make quality stand in the TCCC this season.

The Lions will be looking to execute every facet of their game and notch their first win of the new season this Saturday when they host Wheaton College in their home opener at 7pm.

ENC Drops Season Opener

The Eastern Nazarene men’s basketball team let the opportunity to start the season on the right foot slip in their season opener as they fell on the road to Suffolk University 76-69.

The difference in the game was rebounding and free throw shooting.

While the Rams were 23-30 from the charity stripe, the Lions were just 5-18. The majority of the damage came from a pair of players, DeAngelo Alston, a career 77% at the line, and Aaron Johnson, a career 64%, who are characteristically well above average free throw shooters. So take those woes with a grain of salt, it was nothing more than an aberration.

Rebounding was a different story as the Lions were outdone on the glass 58-43. Leading the rams on the boards was reigning GNAC Rookie of the Year Matt Pepdjonovic. The B.C. High product collected 23 rebounds, more than half of ENC’s total, and seven of which were offensive. Pepdjonovic added 22 points to his line, recording his first career 20-20 game.

“We allowed him [Pepdjonovic] to muscle up and play his game,” said head coach Jim Aller, “it was a bit disappointing”

The Lions found sound contributions from freshman Eddie Allen. The Marshall, Texas native attained 16 minutes of play and chipped in eight point, corralled four rebounds, two offensive, and dished out an assist, without turning the ball over. This could be a pleasant surprise for the Lions as they strive towards establishing a quality bench.

“I like to play 10 players, I always have,” said Aller, “It would be nice to establish a rotation early and Eddie and Kendall [Sutton] played quality minutes for us.”

There was another satisfying aspect of the season opener. Alston was back on the court for the first time since the 2008-2009 season finale, at Roger Williams. That alone is welcome news, but a much finer tell of how Alston feels, to coming back from a stress fracture in his left foot, is he played all 40 minutes.

“I kept looking over to the scorers table thinking I was going to be subbed out soon,” said Alston, “but coach just ran with me, kept giving me plays to run. I’m tired right now [morning after game] more because I played 40 minutes 12 hours ago, but my foot feels fine.”

Like the beginning of any year, teams play a non conference schedule to establish rhythm and chemistry. The Lions are no different and they have 8 more games to acquire these attributes before they invade, TCCC opponent, Endicott's court.

Let the Excitement Begin

"I swear, I'm so excited, I may not sleep tonight. No, jokes."

This the response from junior point guard DeAngelo Alston, who will be making his first appearance, representing Eastern Nazarene, in over a year, when asked, the night before opening night, if he was excited for the first game of the 2010-2011 season.

Alston missed all of the 2009-2010 campaign due to a stress fracture in his left foot in which he injured during the preseason. If Alston was trying to hold back a smile, he failed miserably. Alston's beam, from ear to ear, may have been induced by the BBQ pork chops he was having from the ENC cafeteria, but I have a hunch the food had nothing to do with his titillated glee.

"I just can't wait to get out there and play," said Alston, "I feel real good about this team, we have a chance to turn some heads."

Turn some heads is exactly what they're going to have to do to earn respect around the Commonwealth Coast Conference. The Lions were voted by TCCC coaches to finish 13th, of 14 teams and two spots lower than 2009-2010, in conference this season.

This is nothing short but a blow to the face, as ENC graduated one basketball player from a season ago and he played a minor role, averaging 6.9 minutes a game. Alston's response to the poll, "that's why we play the games."

A year of experience under the belts of Aaron Johnson, Josh Butler, Corban Clinkscale, and second team All Conference selection, Chima Ezeigbo will surely help. While upperclassmen CJ Gonzales, Mike McCoy, Jon Atwater, and DeAngelo Alston look to improve from years past.

The group of first year's, Kendall Sutton, JJ Johnson, Brian Hard, Matt Jayne, Johnny Flakes, John Cramer, Eddie Allen, Jesse Anderson, Larry Jackson, and James Bertier, look to provide all that they can for the betterment of the team.

With such talent on the roster, it may take time for Coach Aller to establish an eight or nine man rotation he is comfortable playing the bulk of the minutes. Like the beginning of any year, teams play a few non conference games to establish rhythm and chemistry. The Lions have 11 games to get their act together before they invade, TCCC opponent, Endicott's court.

"I believe we have a talented roster," said Alston, "and definitely have seven or eight guys coach can rely on in big situations."

Tonight is the night fans, player, faculty and staff have been waiting for for weeks. The opening season tip-off is always special, but for the Lions it's the start of something special. A season in which they believe they have something to prove, that they belong in the playoff conversation, and tonight, at 8:00 P.M., when the ball gets thrown in the air, at center court of Suffolk University, the opportunity allow the unexpected to be expected begins.

Curry #1 In Preseason Poll

Curry College has been selected as the favorite to win the 2010-11 TCCC men’s basketball championship, it was announced today by Commissioner Gregg M. Kaye. Voting for the preseason poll was conducted among the league’s head men’s basketball coaches.

Curry College (15-14, 10-3 TCCC) received four of the 14 first-place votes in the 2010-11 TCCC preseason poll. Endicott College was selected to finish second, receiving three first place votes. Wentworth Institute of Technology was picked to finish third acquiring three first place votes as well. Colby-Sawyer garnered two first place votes and was tabbed to finish fourth, while Roger Williams University picked up one first place vote and was projected to finish fifth.

Teams received 14 points for every first place vote received, 13 points for second place votes, 12 points for third place votes, down to one point for a last place vote. First place votes are shown in parentheses.


2010-2011 TCCC PRESEASON MEN’S BASKETBALL POLL
Curry 174 (4)
Endicott 164 (3)
Wentworth 157 (3)
Colby-Sawyer 149 (2)
Roger Williams 127 (1)
Western New England 105
Anna Maria 103
Gordon 99
Nichols 95
Regis 89 (1)
University of New England 83
Salve Regina 63
Eastern Nazarene 41
New England College 21 


TCCC Press Release


TCCC Website: Preseason Poll

Midnight Madness Intros

I had a great time with this project. Both the men's and women's basketball team's were class acts, professional, a great people to work with. I thank you all for your cooperation and hope you had a good time with the making of this video and Midnight Madness as a whole. I wish both teams the best of luck this season.

Midnight Madness 2010 Promo Videos

Players Control Their Destiny

As the regular season approaches the ENC men’s basketball team has its sights on getting better each and every practice.  Players have been coming to practice with an upbeat, business like, attitude for the practice that lies ahead.

With two scrimmages in the books, the last an encouraging one at Husson College, practices have incrementally come to be game like, in both agenda, intensity, and mentality.

They’re still a ways away from contending for a conference title. Four conference wins, in 2009-2010, and many of the same players serving similar roles, typically, doesn’t get you into the conference championship conversation, but maybe this is the way they want it to be.

Maybe they want to play the “no one respects us” card. Bring a high compete level and have the fortitude to win a few games that no one believed you could win. All of a sudden you put yourself in a scenario where you’ve envisioned yourself in, a place where everyone else considered laughable.

This philosophy has worked for many teams in the past, at all levels of competitive sports. The New England Patriots are the king sitting in the “no one believed in us” throne. Even when they were well on their way to winning three of four Super Bowls and everyone picked them, believed in them, and respected them, they still came out and bellowed out, to anyone who would listen, that “we believed, when no one else did.”

This could, very well, work for this particular group. The potential on this team is endless, the talent is visible and present. Whether it be in a game, practice, or pick up, the skill set of certain players is eye popping.

Can these players coexist, will they put aside personal accolades for the well being of the team? Basketball has turned into an egotistical, twitter era, self promotion, self absorbed sport, where “as long as I get mine” rules the court. But, championship basketball relies on the team concept. One on one basketball can win ball games, can even take you to the post season, but win the big one, I don’t think so.

ENC men’s basketball has had its fair share of selfishness that prohibited even the most talented teams to win. From the, unwarranted, constant feeding of Luc Jasmin, when there was a talented facilitator in JP Marcellus on the roster, to the “well my right hand baseline dribble in so dominant (in my mind) that I won’t acknowledge the open man”, Deandre Brown era.

This particular team seems and feels different. They seem to be putting self aside, and Coach Aller seems adamant to weeding out selfishness. There isn’t one player on the roster who will consistently take over a game, whether it be because of skill or stature. Due to the lack of a go to guy, for now, each player has his own role, some bigger than others, but when each of them take their roles to heart, they compete at a high level.

Ultimately, this is all fans, faculty and staff are looking for, a high compete level. Add brains to the equation and these ENC Lions will have an opportunity to turn some heads in 2010-2011.

Preseason: ENC vs. Fisher

Fisher College visited ENC for the preseason opener, Saturday October 30th. The game was divided into thirds, three 20 minute periods. Every period became a new game. Here are the breakdowns of the three periods of play:

First game: Fisher 31-28.
Second game: Fisher 45-39.
Third game: ENC 31-29.

Game One Highlights: Game one was a game of runs. ENC came out with an 18-8 lead as Fisher went on an 11-0 run to take a 19-18 lead. From their the game went back and forth, but Fisher ultimately came out on top. Both teams were in the double bonus, and while in the double bonus, ENC committed two fouls 90 feet from the basket, which turned into four points, and the difference in the game.

Game Two Highlights: This turned out to be an offensive game. Fisher held a 17 point lead with eight minutes left in the game, 39-22. ENC's Deangelo Alston scored 17 points in the game, and provided the spark to cut the Fisher lead to three. Fisher hit their free throws at the end of the game, halting the ENC comeback.

Game Three Highlights: The closet game of the three saw both teams hold leads of no more than four points. ENC's James Bertier made the most of his offensive opportunities and Matt Jayne played quality defense. Josh Butler got the crowd into it with a breakaway dunk. Eddie Allen made a pair of clutch free throws in the final minute. Fisher had the ball with 8.2 seconds left in the game, but turned the ball over on a traveling violation.

Overall Grade: C-

The game served its purpose. The coaching staff was able to see aspects of players games which can only be seen in a live situation. Plenty to work on and Head Coach Jim Aller has a wealth of material to go on. Saw some good things on the court today, look for this squad to improve over this next week.

Practice: Three Days From Preseason Opener

Welcome to the last week of practices, before Fisher College comes to the Lahue Gym to face ENC's men's basketball team. It is Wednesday, October 27th, and practice started at 3:30 today and the competition is noticeably elevated from the first week.

Practice began with Coach Jim Aller having his team sit on the bleachers as he implored his players to be "proactive, not reactive."

ENC hit the court with the usual three-man weave, as well as other warm up drills, before they moved into practicing their half court offense. (3:40 p.m.)

The first five on the court for half court offense has been running plays flawlessly, but the second and third units have had their fair share of trouble. (4:22)

It has turned into a full court game, with pauses for instruction. Coach Aller has been subbing player in and out on both sides. (4:48)

The offense has been rather sloppy thus far. Missed layups, turnovers, and not hitting open shots. Some players haven't acclimated themselves to the offensive scheme yet. (4:52)

For all that it's worth (absolutely nothing), team Red won the full court game 20-17. Players were asked to switch teams by the coaching staff. Good, hard, basketball overall, plenty of things to clean up, as expected, but effort was certainly visible. (4:55)

After a water break the first unit is on the court working on ways to combat the full court press. Coach Aller has asked eight players to play full court press against the starting five. (5:00)

The first unit was 3 for 5 breaking the eight man press. Mike McCoy has been subbed in for Atwater, McCoy now playing with the other four members of the first unit. (5:03)

For being 5 on 8, the offense faired well, even being down 3 players. The first unit even got a few layups after breaking the trap. (5:13)

They have moved into situational basketball. We have a 70-69 score, with the first unit down, and 4 minutes on the clock. (5:15)

Aaron Johnson hit two three's in the final minute to win it for the first unit 79-76. (5:23)

We now have a two minute game with the first unit down 3, 79-76. (5:24)

The backups prevailed in the two minute situational game, 91-87. (5:33)

As the team runs its final sprints for the day it will be farewell from me, hope everyone who reads enjoyed this live blog of practice. See you Saturday for the scrimmage. (5:35)