University of Massachusets Athletics

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November 2013 Archives

Vin Parise's 30-second timeout: Five questions with Derek Kellogg

By Brian Henry on November 30, 2013 10:58 AM
Vin Parise (@VinParise) from CollegeBasketballTalk caught up with UMass head coach Derek Kellogg, who sits at 6-0 this season with a win in the Charleston Classic.

CBT: If I would have looked into a crystal ball in October and told you that UMass would be Top 25 before Thanksgiving; would you have believed it?
Kellogg: I knew we had some strong pieces in place and we would be better but I am a little surprised, in a very good way, that we are playing this well so early. I knew Chaz Williams would be our leader, but our other guys have been just as great.

CBT: When did it hit home that you guys could be a really good basketball team?
Kellogg: When we beat #19 New Mexico, I started to look at this group a little different. The way we had our press going and the way we played offensively - I felt we had the ability to play a high level of basketball. I'd love to be able to bottle that up now for the rest of the season.

Read the entire Q&A by clicking the link below...

VIDEO: UMass Athletes Share Their Favorite Thanksgiving Foods On The UMass Sports Insider

By John Sinnett on November 28, 2013 5:39 AM
Happy Thanksgiving to all of MinuteFan Nation! Today we have a special feature from our latest UMass Sports Insider where some of our athletes talk about their favorite foods at Thanksgiving.

We hope all of our fans have a wonderful Thanksgiving Day!

UMass Football's Rob Blanchflower Ruled Inactive For Friday's Game At Ohio

By John Sinnett on November 27, 2013 2:46 PM
The Minutemen received tough news this week as Rob Blanchflower has been ruled inactive for the game at Ohio on Friday afternoon (2 PM) as announced by head coach Charley Molnar on Tuesday after practice.

UMass' decision to let Derek Kellogg grow into the job is paying off

By Brian Henry on November 26, 2013 5:00 PM
Gary Parrish (@GaryParrishCBS) of CBS Sports.com spoke with Derek Kellogg on Monday about his time in Amherst as the head coach of the Minutemen and what's his six years have been like thus far.

Here's an excerpt from the article...
     Which brings me to UMass.
     Good luck telling UMass that rankings don't matter.
     "It's been great," UMass coach Derek Kellogg told me late Monday, a few hours after the Minutemen officially entered the Associated Press poll for the first time in 15 years. "My phone -- text messages, emails, calls -- has been going all day. It's just been crazy."
     So, yeah, the rankings matter.
     But I'm not here to hammer that point again, at least not now, because I'd rather spend the rest of this column writing about UMass and Kellogg and how, sometimes, patience pays off.
     That's the lesson here, right?
     UMass hired Kellogg in 2008 to replace Travis Ford, and, honestly, it was a no-brainer move. Kellogg was a former UMass player who graduated from the school in 1995, and a hotshot assistant who had been working under his former coach, John Calipari, at Memphis. I'm not sure if anybody else was even considered, but, if so, it was a waste of time. Kellogg seemed like the right guy for a variety of reasons. He deserved the job and he got the job.
     Then the process of rebuilding UMass began.
     It hasn't been simple.

Click the link below to read the entire article...

Republican: Running back Shadrach Abrokwah shines in University of Massachusetts debut

By John Sinnett on November 26, 2013 1:19 PM
Paul Bowker of the Springfield Republican has a story on Shadrach Abrokwah's performance last Saturday at Central Michigan. Abrokwah ran for 93 yards on 20 carries in his first collegiate game.

Coverage Of UMass Basketball Being Ranked In The Top 25

By John Sinnett on November 26, 2013 10:31 AM
As you might expect, lots of coverage yesterday and this morning on the Minutemen being ranked in the AP Top 25 for the first time since 1998.




Collegian: Minutewomen ride momentum of two-game winning streak into matchup with Holy Cross

By Cody Lahl on November 26, 2013 10:27 AM

Jesse Mayfield-Sheehan previews UMass women's basketball's midweek meeting with Holy Cross in Worcester, Mass., as the Minutewomen look to defend their two-game winning streak against an undefeated Crusaders team.

The Massachusetts women's basketball team is heading into Tuesday's game against Holy Cross with a feeling it hasn't had in a long time: the momentum of a winning streak.

After defeating Rutgers on Wednesday and following it up with a win over Hartford on Saturday, the Minutewomen achieved their first two-game winning streak since Feb. 22, 2012.

"It really builds our confidence," junior guard Emily Mital said. "Starting off 0-3, we obviously were kind of in a little slump there, and so this two-game winning streak kind of picked us up and now we're feeling pretty confident."

Holy Cross (3-0) comes into the contest with a strong offense that currently averages 83.7 points per game, with all five starters averaging at least 10 points a game...


Fans can read the rest of the preview through the Daily Collegian website. More information on the women's basketball team can be found on UMassAthletics.com.

Collegian: UMass women's basketball finding different ways to win games

By Cody Lahl on November 26, 2013 7:44 AM

Joey Saade with the Daily Collegian took a look at what UMass women's basketball did to win each of the previous two games, speaking with head coach Sharon Dawley to gain input on where the team has grown.

Don't look now, but the Massachusetts women's basketball team is riding a two-game winning streak.

Following Wednesday's upset win over a Rutgers team coached by Vivian Stringer, the Minutewomen battled a cold start against Hartford on Saturday and came out with a 63-59 come-from-behind victory.

For UMass coach Sharon Dawley, winning consecutive games for the first time in two seasons is a nice accomplishment. But the more vital aspect is how the Minutewomen pulled out those two games: in two different ways.

UMass (2-3) held a double-digit lead for the majority of the second half against Rutgers before they had to hold off a furious rally.

On Saturday, the Minutewomen's offense didn't find its rhythm until the second half, when they overcame a 12-point deficit and came out of another nail-biter on top...


The finish to Saade's story can be found on the Daily Collegian website. More information on the women's basketball squad is available through UMassAthletics.com.

Collegian: UMass women's basketball wins second consecutive nailbiter

By Cody Lahl on November 26, 2013 12:18 AM

Daily Collegian reporter Andrew Cyr followed up with head coach Sharon Dawley and junior forward Kim Pierre-Louis after UMass took a 63-59 win from Hartford on the road Saturday afternoon. Pierre-Louis provided a career day with single-game personal bests of 19 points and nine rebounds in leading the team to the win.

Massachusetts's women's basketball coach Sharon Dawley knew that with a young roster it was going to take some time for her team to get acclimated to playing at such a competitive level.

However, just five games into the season, with back-to-back nail biting wins only three days apart, this Minutewoman team is gaining confidence quickly, and showing no signs of slowing down after a 63-59 win against Hartford on Saturday.

"I was really happy with our team's performance on the defensive end," Dawley said. "We had a couple big shots from [Jasmine Harris] and [Emily Mital] late in the second half, but it was our ability to defend and get to loose balls that kept us in this game."

Trailing 51-46 with 9:23 remaining, Rashida Timbilla dished the ball out to an open Harris, who buried a deep 3-pointer to cut the Hawks' lead down to just two. Less than two minutes later, Harris drilled another straightaway three to give UMass a 52-51 lead, its first lead since the 14:44 mark of the first half...

For the entire recap of the game, check out the Daily Collegian website here. More information on UMass women's basketball is available through UMassAthletics.com.


ESPNU: Andy Katz & Seth Greenberg Speak With Derek Kellogg On The Minutemen's Hot Start

By John Sinnett on November 25, 2013 2:56 PM
Andy Katz and Seth Greenberg spoke with UMass basketball head coach Derek Kellogg today on their ESPNU College Basketball Podcast.

MBB Recaps From Sunday's 62-56 Win Over Clemson

By Brian Henry on November 25, 2013 10:57 AM
UMass claimed the Charleston Classic title last night with a 62-56 win over Clemson. Cady Lalanne was a beast all week and earned Most Valuable Player honors after he posted two double-doubles and averaged 15.7 points, 11.7 rebounds and 3.0 blocks per game. The Minutemen are off for a week until traveling to Eastern Michigan next Tuesday, Dec. 3.



MBB Gameday Preview: vs. Clemson, 11/24/13

By Brian Henry on November 24, 2013 11:32 AM
UMass and Clemson will meet at 9 pm tonight in the finals of the Charleston Classic. The Minutemen will bring their high-scoring game to the table, while the Tigers have a very strong defense that will lock down on UMass.

Massachusetts  (5-0) vs. Clemson (5-0) 
 Date  Sunday, Nov. 24 at 9:00 p.m. (EST)
 Location  Charleston, S.C. | TD Arena
 Tickets  843-953-2632 |   Ticket Info ($100 for all 6 sessions/$20 per 2-game session)
 TV  ESPN2 (Rich Hollenberg and Len Elmore)
 Radio   105.5 FM WEEI (Springfield), 1440 AM WVEI (Worcester);  Listen Online | Use the  TuneIn App for Mobile Devices to listen
 Online Video  watch  Watch ESPN
 Live Stats  gametracker  Live Stats
 Social Media
    Twitter.com/UMassAthletics
 Game Notes   Massachusetts Notes |  Clemson Notes |  News Clips |  2013-14 Media Guide
 Tournament Info   Charleston Classic Web Site |  Schedule & Bracket



MBB Recaps From Friday's 81-65 Win Over No. 19/20 New Mexico

By Brian Henry on November 23, 2013 8:38 AM
UMass used a couple of big runs, including a game-ending 20-4 stretch over the final 7:54 to upset No. 19/20 New Mexico in the semifinals of the Charleston Classic. The Minutemen wore down the tired legs of the Lobos after they had played a very physical double-overtime game with UAB just 24 hours earlier. It was P.A.I.N. at its finest.

UMass is now 5-0 and will face 5-0 Clemson in the championship game on Sunday night at 9 p.m. on ESPN2.


MBB Gameday Preview: vs. No. 19/20 New Mexico, 11/22/13

By Brian Henry on November 22, 2013 12:37 PM
Massachusetts  (4-0) vs. No. 19/20 New Mexico (3-0) 
 Date  Friday, Nov. 22 at 2:30 p.m. (EST)
 Location  Charleston, S.C. | TD Arena
 Tickets  843-953-2632 |   Ticket Info ($100 for all 6 sessions/$20 per 2-game session)
 TV  ESPN2 (Bob Picozzi and Tim Welsh)
 Radio   105.5 FM WEEI (Springfield), 1440 AM WVEI (Worcester); 95.9 FM WATD (South Shore);  Listen Online | Use the  TuneIn App for Mobile Devices to listen
 Online Video  watch  Watch ESPN
 Live Stats  gametracker  Live Stats
 Social Media
    Twitter.com/UMassAthletics
 Game Notes   Massachusetts Notes |  New Mexico Notes |  News Clips |  2013-14 Media Guide
 Tournament Info   Charleston Classic Web Site |  Schedule & Bracket


UMass held off a late charge from Nebraska to improve to 4-0 on the season and earn a spot in the Charleston Classic winner's bracket where it will face No. 19/20 New Mexico on Friday at 2:30 p.m. Fans unable to attend the game can watch on ESPN2, online at ESPN3/the Watch ESPN app, or listen to the radio call on the UMass Sports Network.

  • UMass has averaged 89.8 points and scored at least 85 points in all four contests this season. The Minutemen have averaged 49.3 ppg in the second half and gone over 50 points three times.
  • UMass is averaging 13.3 offensive rebounds and 15.7 second-chance points per game, compared to just 10.3 second-chance points for its opponents.
  • All five starters are averaging double-figures in scoring for UMass, with the fifth-highest at 11.3 ppg.
  • UMass has handed each of its last three opponents their first loss of the season

SERIES HISTORY WITH NEW MEXICO & MOUNTAIN WEST
  • UMass and New Mexico will be meeting for the first time in men's hoops on Friday.
  • The Minutemen have faced five current Mountain West members, compiling a 2-4 record against Air Force (0-1), Colorado State (0-1), Fresno State (0-2), Hawaii (1-0) and Wyoming (1-0). Ironically though, none of those meetings have come since the league broke away from the WAC in the late 1990s.
  • The Minutemen's only two games against an active MWC member at the time of the contest were a 69-53 loss to Utah in the 2002 Maui Invitational and a 67-48 win over TCU in the title game of the 2010 Basketball Hall of Fame Tip-Off in Springfield.

AGAINST RANKED OPPONENTS
  • UMass is 31-76 all-time vs. AP Top-25 teams with five wins since 2004. The Minutemen went 0-2 against ranked foes last season - losing to No. 6/6 NC State in the Puerto Rico Tip Off and No. 25/22 VCU in the Atlantic 10 Championship semifinals. Their last win over a ranked team came against No. 21 Temple in the 2012 A-10 quarterfinals.
  • Derek Kellogg is 2-10 against Top 25 teams (wins over No. 25 Kansas in Kansas City on 12/25/09 and No. 21 Temple in Atlantic City on 3/9/12).

UMASS LEFTOVERS FROM THE NEBRASKA GAME
  • UMass improved to 4-0 on the season for the third time in the last four years (2010-11 & 2011-12). UMass has opened the season scoring at least 80 points in each of it's first four games for the first time in school history.
  • Massachusetts scored on 20 of its first 26 possessions of the second half en route to shooting 58.6 percent after halftime.
  • The Minutemen had 40-plus rebounds for the fourth-straight game and had the edge on the glass for the third time. They also turned 17 offensive boards into 17 second-chance points.
  • UMass set season highs in free throws made, attempted and pct. - 33-of-43 for .767.
  • UMass has handed each of its last three opponents their first loss of the season.
  • Nebraska allowed a season-high 96 points and trailed for much of the game. UN entered with a 53.0 scoring defense and had only trailed for 62 seconds all season.
  • UMass recorded an opponent team high for Nebraska in every offensive stats except 3-pointers made, attempted and percentage.
  • Six players scored in double figures for the first time since seven did so at Jacksonville State on Nov. 25, 2006.
  • Sophomore G Derrick Gordon had a team-high 22 points - 15 after halftime - after opening his UMass career with 7, 8 & 9-point outings. This is his second time at the Charleston Classic after he totaled 19 points, 19 rebounds and eight assists two years ago in three losses as a freshman at Western Kentucky. Gordon also drew his third charge of the season - all coming in the past three games.
  • Junior C Cady Lalanne finished with 15 points on 5-of-7 shooting and 9 boards in 31 minutes before fouling out for the second time this season. 
  • Senior F Sampson Carter continued his strong play this season with 16 points to post his career-best fourth-consecutive double-figure scoring game. He is averaging 16.0 points and 6.3 rebounds after entering with career averages of 6.1 and 4.0. 
  • Junior F Maxie Esho had a season-high 13 points to go along with six boards off the bench.
  • The Minutemen had 40-plus rebounds for the fourth-straight game and had the edge on the glass for the third time. They also turned 17 offensive boards into 17 second-chance points

Gazette: Haight ready to play this weekend for UMass Hockey

By Jillian Jakuba on November 22, 2013 12:10 PM | No Comments | No TrackBacks
Mark Chiarelli took a look back at goaltender Mac Haight's play last weekend against Boston College while previewing UMass' matchups with Vermont this weekend. The Minutemen host the Catamounts tonight at 7 p.m.

Mac Haight couldn't have ever pictured his first two collegiate starts coming against national power Boston College.

But Haight -- a walk-on freshman goalie who entered the season listed third on the University of Massachusetts hockey depth chart -- quickly found himself saving shots from the likes of Johnny Gaudreau in a pivotal Hockey East series.

It certainly wasn't an enviable situation. Steve Mastalerz, who saved 92.5 percent of shots faced, has missed the last three games with an undisclosed injury. Alex Wakaluk, the original backup to Mastalerz, allowed five goals on 10 shots against New Hampshire in a 9-0 loss.

UMass (3-7-2, 1-2-4 Hockey East) coach John Micheletto turned to Haight to steady his team between the pipes.

Haight made 57 saves in two games against the Eagles and allowed just four goals, helping the Minutemen pick up a conference point and establish consistency as it prepares for a weekend series with Vermont (3-5-1, 2-4).

Bud Light UMass Football Radio Show Podcast Now Available (11/22)

By John Sinnett on November 22, 2013 8:32 AM
If you couldn't make it to the Bud Light UMass Football Radio Show last night at the Hangar Pub & Grill, check out the Podcast!

Host Cody Chrusciel spoke with head coach Charley Molnar along with player guests Vance Barton, Antoine Tharpe and Adam Richard.

ESPNBoston: UMass preparing for Central Michigan

By John Sinnett on November 22, 2013 8:27 AM
Jack McCluskey of ESPNBoston.com has a preview of UMass' game on Saturday at Central Michigan. 

MBB Recaps From Thursday's 96-90 Win Over Nebraska

By Brian Henry on November 22, 2013 7:18 AM
UMass outlasted a late rally from Nebraska to advance to the winner's side of the Charleston Classic. Gordon ended the game with 22 points and five rebounds as he showed the fans what his game is all about. He was just three shy of his career-high of 25 from his Western Kentucky days. The Minutemen also got solid scoring from the other four starters and Maxie Esho joined the group of six in double figures. Before we get to any of the previews for the game with New Mexico, here are some recaps and thoughts on yesterday's action.


And here's a story from ESPN about the craziness that happened in Charleston, Puerto Rico and NYC as the first day of the holiday tournaments opened with some fireworks.


Coverage of UMass' Upset Win Over Rutgers Women's Basketball

By Cody Lahl on November 21, 2013 9:04 PM

The University of Massachusetts women's basketball earned its first win of the 2013-14 season in stunning fashion with an upset victory over national powerhouse Rutgers, 64-63 on Wednesday evening. UMass led by five at halftime and held off a late charge by the Scarlet Knights for the win. Below are a few links for MinuteFans to check out regarding coverage of the contest:

Joey Saade covered the game for the Daily Collegian and highlighted the overall team effort that led the Minutewomen to earn the decision over Rutgers.

Thom Kendall was on-hand to snap photos of the game's progression and provided a gallery on UMassAthletics.com here.

J. Anthony Roberts stopped by to capture the contest for the Springfield Republican. His photo album is available through their website here.

Postgame reactions from head coach Sharon Dawley, junior guard Emily Mital and sophomore forward Rashida Timbilla and highlights of the contest can be found on UMass Athletics' YouTube page.


Daily Collegian: UMass hockey still unsure of Steve Mastalerz's status vs. UVM

By Jillian Jakuba on November 21, 2013 1:44 PM | No Comments | No TrackBacks
Nick Canelas had this piece in today's Daily Collegian looking ahead to UMass' weekend vs. Vermont and goaltenders Mac Haight and Steve Mastalerz:

Mac Haight's relationship with Steve Mastalerz dates further back than being teammates on the Massachusetts hockey team this season.

According to Haight, the two goaltenders first met six years ago through goalie coach Mike Buckley, who is now the goalie development coach for the Pittsburgh Penguins, when the two were at prep school.

The goalies stayed in contact with one another following that first meeting. Even while Haight was in juniors when Mastalerz was at UMass the last two years, Mastalerz was always there to give advice.

That sort of influence helped him make his decision to join the Minutemen as a recruited walk-on this season.

"It was nice to come in and know someone like Steve to help me out," Haight said. "Because I knew he was gonna help me out through the season and get me into that next level to be ready for college hockey."

Read more: UMass hockey still unsure of Steve Mastalerz's status heading into weekend

VIDEO: Highlights From Women's Hoops Win Over Rutgers

By John Sinnett on November 21, 2013 11:42 AM
Check out the highlights from UMass' 64-63 win over Rutgers last night in the Mullins Center!

Bud Light UMass Football Radio Show Airs Tonight (7 PM) From The Hangar Pub & Grill

By John Sinnett on November 21, 2013 11:37 AM
Join us tonight for the Bud Light UMass Football Show With Charley Molnar at the Hangar Pub & Grill on University Drive. The show will air tonight starting at 7 PM and can be heard live on 105.5 FM WEEI Springfield. 

If you can't make it in person, you can listen live at  http://player.tritonmedia.com/entercom/WWEIFM or on your mobile device by downloading the TuneIn App and going to 105.5 FM WEEI. 

Tonight's special guests will be tight end Rob Blanchflower, safety Antoine Tharpe and linebacker Adam Richard. Send in a question to be answered on the air at  http://www.umassathletics.com/ot/ask-coach.html or Tweet your question to @ UMassSportsNet.

MBB Gameday Previews: vs. Nebraska, 11/21/13

By Brian Henry on November 21, 2013 7:46 AM
Massachusetts  (3-0) vs. Nebraska (3-0) 
 Date  Thursday, Nov. 21 at 12:30 p.m. (EST)
 Location  Charleston, S.C. | TD Arena
 Tickets  843-953-2632 |   Ticket Info ($100 for all 6 sessions/$20 per 2-game session)
 TV  ESPN3 (Bob Picozzi and Tim Welsh)
 Radio    105.5 FM WEEI (Springfield), 1440 AM WVEI (Worcester); 95.9 FM WATD (South Shore);  Listen Online | Use the  TuneIn App for Mobile Devices to listen
 Online Video   watch  Watch ESPN
 Live Stats   gametracker  Live Stats
 Social Media
     Twitter.com/UMassAthletics
 Game Notes   Massachusetts Notes |  Nebraska Notes |  News Clips |  2013-14 Media Guide
 Tournament Info   Charleston Classic Web Site |  Schedule & Bracket





Freshman Demetrius Dyson filling a role for 3-0 UMass men's basketball team

By Brian Henry on November 20, 2013 11:53 AM
UMass beat writer Matt Vautour of the Daily Hampshire Gazette has a nice piece on freshman Demetrius Dyson and his emergence into the rotation for the Minutemen.

    AMHERST -- Demetrius Dyson said he wasn't nervous when Derek Kellogg sent him into the game with 9 minutes, 45 seconds left in the first half of Sunday's win over Youngstown State.
    The University of Massachusetts freshman immediately drew the assignment of guarding Kendrick Perry, the Penguins' leading scorer.
    Seven minutes later, Dyson came out of the game. He wasn't perfect. He missed two 3-pointers and cut the wrong way leading to a Chaz Williams turnover. But Perry didn't score during that stretch.
    "I'm trying to come in and play defense. I wasn't focused on scoring, I was just focused making sure he didn't score and hurt us," Dyson said. "I knew Chaz and Cady (Lalanne) were having great games. I wasn't coming in trying to be a superstar, just to fulfill my role and lock this person down."

UMass mentioned in ESPN Daily Word

By Brian Henry on November 20, 2013 11:43 AM
Every weekday, Andy Katz and a group of college hoops experts from ESPN discuss the comings and goings of the hoops world. Wednesday's installment contains some thoughts on the Charleston Classic from Katz, Dana O'Neil and Myron Medcalf and how they think things could shake out for the Minutemen.

3. Which team -- New Mexico, UMass, Nebraska, Georgia, Clemson, Davidson, Temple or UAB -- has the most to gain in the Charleston Classic beginning Thursday?
Andy Katz: UMass. The Minutemen are off to a terrific start and wins over Nebraska and New Mexico to get to a final where they should be favored will land the Minutemen in the Top 25 and on their way toward building an NCAA tournament résumé.
Dana O'Neil: This is big for UMass. This is the year it's supposed to come together for Derek Kellogg's team, but the Minutemen need some good quality wins out of conference to prove their worth. Playing against this field allows it. Chaz Williams could turn some heads in Charleston.
Myron Medcalf: I think it's UMass because the Minutemen began the year with three wins, including a victory over SEC sleeper LSU. In the second round of the Charleston Classic, UMass might get a shot at New Mexico. A win over the Lobos would boost UMass' NCAA tourney résumé and push the program into the Top 25, assuming they win the tournament's championship too.

Read the entire piece here... Daily Word - ESPN

Daily Collegian: Recruiting Never Stops For UMass Hockey Team

By Jillian Jakuba on November 20, 2013 10:50 AM | No Comments | No TrackBacks
On the back of hockey's NLI signing announcement yesterday, Nick Canelas had this piece today on the coaching staff's recruiting efforts:

The Massachusetts men's hockey team had a rare weekend off after their series with Boston College ended on Friday. While the players used it as an opportunity to get some much-needed rest, UMass coach John Micheletto hit the recruiting trail.

Micheletto had little time to digest the Minutemen's hard-fought, 2-2 tie with the Eagles on Friday night. As soon as the team bus returned to Amherst, the second-year coach had his mind set on a 7 a.m. flight out of Hartford, Conn. on Saturday morning.

With practices all week and multiple games during the weekend, it's not often that Micheletto has the chance to do some in-season recruiting. But as a former director of recruiting at Vermont, the experience was certainly nothing new for him.

"It's what you do," Micheletto said. "We gotta take advantage of those weekends. When you're a head coach, you don't get out as much as you used to. So when you're off Saturday and Sunday and you have an opportunity to get somewhere, you gotta take advantage of it."

Read more: Recruiting never stops for UMass hockey team

Republican: Zurlon Tipton back from broken ankle just in time to face Minutemen

By John Sinnett on November 20, 2013 9:28 AM
Dan Malone of the Springfield Republican has a story today on Central Michigan running back Zurlon Tipton who returned to the field earlier this month after breaking his ankle in the season opener. Tipton was a key factor in the Chippewas win over UMass last season.

UMass Hockey Radio Show Tonight At The Hangar Pub & Grill (7 PM)

By John Sinnett on November 19, 2013 1:42 PM
Be sure to join us tonight at the Hangar Pub & Grill for the Bud Light UMass Hockey Radio Show at 7 PM. Brock Hines will be joined by head coach John Micheletto along with assistant coach Joey Gasparini.

If you can't make it by the Hangar, you can listen live on WHMP (96.9 FM, 1440 AM, 1240 AM), online at http://player.liquidcompass.net/WHMPAM or on mobile devices using the Tune-In App.

UMass Basketball Radio Show Podcast Now Available (Nov. 19)

By John Sinnett on November 19, 2013 10:41 AM
In case you missed last night's UMass Basketball Radio Show, the podcast is now available as Josh Maurer, Coach Kellogg and Raphiael Putney break down the great start to the season.

Coverage of UMass Football's Loss To Akron

By John Sinnett on November 18, 2013 11:36 AM
It was a tough loss for UMass on Saturday against Akron at Gillette Stadium. Here are the recaps and highlights from the game. The Minutemen will now turn their focus to the Central Michigan game this Saturday at 1 PM.








Recaps Of UMass Hockey's 2-2 Tie At #7 Boston College

By Jillian Jakuba on November 18, 2013 10:48 AM | No Comments | No TrackBacks
After being edged by the Eagles at home last Thursday, UMass hockey rallied late for a 2-2 tie on the road at Boston College on Friday night. Several media outlets had coverage of the game:

Boston Herald: UMass ties up Eagles
Boston.com: BC men's hockey ties up UMass, 2-2
Masslive.com: University of Massachusetts hockey team rallies to tie Boston College, 2-2
Daily Collegian: Late goal from Branden Gracel gives UMass 2-2 tie with BC

MBB Recaps From Sunday's 85-69 Win Over Youngstown State

By Brian Henry on November 18, 2013 8:41 AM
Chaz Williams and Cady Lalanne both posted double-doubles as a quartet of UMass players reached double figures in scoring. UMass fought through a tight first half to take an eight-point lead at the break. The Minutemen extended the margin to as many as 18 at one point before cling with a 16-point win.
UMass is now 3-0 for the third time in the last four seasons and has scored at least 85 points in all three games. The last time a UMass team opened a season with three games of 80 or more was the 1991-92 season. It is also just the fourth time that has happened in school history.


Collegian: Minutewomen begin NCAA Tournament play Saturday against Virginia

By Cody Lahl on November 16, 2013 12:28 PM

Daily Collegian staff writer Jason Kates previews the UMass field hockey NCAA Tournament First Round game against Virginia for MinuteFans. UMass is making its 24th appearance in the NCAA Tournament and second in head coach Carla Tagliente's three seasons leading the program. The Minutewomen will face the Cavaliers on Saturday afternoon with a chance to advance to the second round on the line.

After winning its second consecutive Atlantic 10 championship, the No. 10 Massachusetts field hockey team will make its 24th appearance in the NCAA Tournament on Saturday when it faces No. 7 Virginia in the first round.

The Minutewomen (18-4, 7-0 A-10) enter the contest riding an 11-game winning streak dating back to Oct. 2, when they defeated Northeastern 2-0. The Cavaliers (15-5, 3-3 ACC) have lost two straight, most recently losing to Duke in the ACC quarterfinals.

UMass has prior experience playing ranked opponents this season, so Minutewoman coach Carla Tagliente doesn't believe the challenge of playing a top 10 team will overwhelm her squad...


Check out the rest of Kates' story on the Daily Collegian website. More information on UMass field hockey can found through UMassAthletics.com.

Globe: UMass seniors helping to shape football program

By John Sinnett on November 15, 2013 12:25 PM
Nancy Marrapese-Burrell of the Boston Globe has a preview on UMass' game against Akron on Saturday. The story also has quotes from senior Galen Clemons who organized a White Ribbon Campaign pledge for the UMass football program this week.

Bud Light UMass Football Radio Show Podcast Now Available (11/15)

By John Sinnett on November 15, 2013 12:21 PM
If you couldn't make it to the Bud Light UMass Football Radio Show last night at the Hangar Pub & Grill, check out the Podcast!

Voice of the Minutemen Josh Maurer spoke with head coach Charley Molnar along with player guests Anthony Dima, Tom Brandt and Brandon Potvin.

Coverage of Hockey's 2-1 Loss To Boston College

By Jillian Jakuba on November 15, 2013 12:00 PM | No Comments | No TrackBacks
Several media outlets had coverage of UMass hockey's 2-1 loss to #7 Boston College at the Mullins Center last night, including praise of freshman goaltender Mac Haight's performance in his first collegiate start.

Springfield Republican: UMass hockey drops 2-1 decision to BC after overturned 3rd-period goal
Daily Hampshire Gazette: Replay erases UMass goal in 2-1 loss to Boston College
Daily Collegian: Controversial ruling leads to UMass hockey's loss to BC
SB Nation: Boston College Holds Off UMass Charge for 2-1 Victory

Also, here is the postgame press conference from last night:

ESPN Boston: UMass' Carter lined up for solid season

By Brian Henry on November 14, 2013 2:23 PM
Steve Richards of ESPNBoston.com spent some one-on-one time with Sampson Carter following the win over LSU on Tuesday. He touched on the redshirt senior's improved bill of health after surgery from two years ago left lingering pain in Carter's body.

     AMHERST, Mass. -- A frequent topic of conversation in the first days of the college basketball season is a rules change essentially directing officials to give offenses more room to maneuver and defenses a little less leeway.
     The change coincided with the University of Massachusetts getting to the free throw line 40 times in its 92-90 win over LSU in a Tuesday morning game pitting teams on the NCAA tournament bubble in early projections.
     On the surface, UMass' Sampson Carter seemingly was a primary beneficiary, getting to the line 15 times and hitting 11, both career highs. But most of the calls would have been made regardless of any adjustment to the rules. Carter was aggressive to the basket from the start despite the presence of a solid LSU front line. The 6-foot-8, 220-pound senior finished with 17 points, matching his career best. That came on the heels of a 12-point effort that including a personal 7-0 outburst that sparked an 86-73 win over Boston College on Sunday.
     "As you all can see, I'm really not as athletic as [teammate Raphiael Putney] or Maxie Esho," Carter said. "All my life when I have to play with these type of guys, I have to do the grunt work, using ball fakes, using my body. I knew what I had to do coming into the game. That's just the player I am."
     More than just a mindset, Carter's early success also can be attributed to his health.

Read the entire article by clicking the link below...

Bud Light UMass Football Radio Show Airs Tonight (7 PM) From The Hangar Pub & Grill

By John Sinnett on November 14, 2013 1:07 PM
Join us tonight for the Bud Light UMass Football Show With Charley Molnar at the Hangar Pub & Grill on University Drive. The show will air tonight starting at 7 PM and can be heard live on 105.5 FM WEEI Springfield. 

If you can't make it in person, you can listen live at  http://player.tritonmedia.com/entercom/WWEIFM or on your mobile device by downloading the TuneIn App and going to 105.5 FM WEEI. 

Tonight's special guests will be offensive tackle Anthony Dima, linebacker Tom Brandt and defensive end Brandon Potvin. Send in a question to be answered on the air at  http://www.umassathletics.com/ot/ask-coach.html or Tweet your question to @ UMassSportsNet.

VIDEO: Galen Clemons Leads UMass Football Through The White Ribbon Campaign Pledge

By John Sinnett on November 14, 2013 7:11 AM
On Wednesday prior to practice, senior defensive tackle Galen Clemons organized a White Ribbon Campaign Pledge ceremony for the UMass Football program. Guest speakers included professor Tom Schiff and UMass Chancellor Kumble Subbaswamy. The White Ribbon Campaign aims to stop violence against women.

Gazette: UMass quarterback A.J. Doyle expects to start against Akron Saturday

By John Sinnett on November 14, 2013 7:08 AM
Matt Vautour of the Daily Hampshire Gazette has a story today on A.J. Doyle's return to practice after missing time due to injury. While UMass will not name its starter until later this week, both Doyle and Mike Wegzyn will be healthy and available for Saturday's game.

Republican: Slowed by nagging injuries, QB A.J. Doyle looking to get back under center Saturday

By John Sinnett on November 14, 2013 7:06 AM
Dan Malone of the Springfield Republican has a story today on A.J. Doyle return to practice this week after being sidelined for the Northern Illinois game due to injury.

Collegian: UMass football hosts Akron hoping for a win on Senior Day

By John Sinnett on November 14, 2013 7:02 AM
Nick Canelas of the Daily Collegian has a preview of Saturday's game against Akron and what Senior Day means to Brandon Potvin, Galen Clemons and Justin Anderson.

Springfield Armor's Gary Forbes happy to be back near UMass but focused on NBA

By Brian Henry on November 14, 2013 6:35 AM
Erika Leigh of the Springfield Republican caught up Gary Forbes as he settled in to his new surroundings with the Springfield Armour of the NBA D League. Here's some of what the former UMass star had to say.

    SPRINGFIELD - Returning to Western Massachusetts is a homecoming of sorts for former UMass basketball standout Gary Forbes. 
    The 28-year-old will be joining the Springfield Armor, the NBA development league (D-League) affiliate of the Brooklyn Nets, for their fifth season.
    Forbes was waived by the Nets after signing in September and joined the Armor as one of two affiliate players for d-League training camp.
    "It almost feels like home, even though it's not," Forbes said at Armor Media Day on Wednesday. "I'm just happy to be a part of a team and excited to play basketball."
    Forbes might be excited to return to a city just a short ride from his alma mater, but don't be deceived. Like every D-League player, the center is motivated to play in the NBA.



Jon Rothstein: Triple Threat (w/ UMass mention)

By Brian Henry on November 13, 2013 12:11 PM
Jon Rothstein (@JonRothstein) posted his latest Triple Threat article and lists UMass among three teams that have impressed him early.

Here is the chunk on the Minutemen...
Derek Kellogg told me over the summer that this is the year he believes he can lead his alma mater back to the NCAA Tournament and he's certainly got them headed in that direction. The Minutemen had a tremendous second-half comeback against Boston College on Sunday and then beat a very talented LSU team Tuesday in Amherst. Chaz Williams looks like the best guard in the Atlantic 10 and big man Cady Lalanne has also emerged. Noticeably more svelte than he was a year ago, Lalanne is averaging 21 points, 9.0 rebounds and 2.0 blocks through UMass' first two games.

Read the entire article by clicking here...

Yahoo! Sports: Winners and losers from Tuesday's 24-hour tip-off marathon

By Brian Henry on November 13, 2013 10:18 AM
Jeff Eisenberg (@JeffEisenberg) from Yahoo! Sports offered up his winners and losers from Tuesday's 24-hour Tip Off Marathon. UMass was listed as a winner and here's what Jeff had to say about the Minutemen...

Of the 37 teams who have started 2-0 so far, none has two better victories than UMass. Two days after dispatching in-state foe Boston College on a neutral floor, the Minutemen survived a late comeback bid to topple rapidly improving LSU 92-90. Granted UMass faded after a strong start last season, but two early resumé wins are noteworthy for a Minutemen program trying to make the NCAA tournament after two straight NIT bids. Even more promising, A-10 player of the year candidate Chaz Williams has more help this season than he did a year ago. Oh sure, Williams is averaging 22 points in the two UMass victories, but the frontcourt is also blossoming. Now fully healthy and in better shape, 6-foot-10 Cady Lalanne has scored 43 points on 20 of 25 shooting in two games and had a huge second half to propel the Minutemen past LSU on Tuesday. Forwards Sampson Carter and Raphiael Putney have also been active on the glass and in the paint. If that continues and Western Kentucky transfer Derrick Gordon continues to shake off the rust, UMass has the potential to challenge VCU, Saint Louis and La Salle in the Atlantic 10.

Read the full article here:

MBB Recaps From Tuesday's 92-90 Win Over LSU

By Brian Henry on November 13, 2013 7:32 AM
UMass put on a nice show in its second game of the season, defeating LSU 92-90 in front of more than 5,000 fans on Tuesday morning. The crowd was rockin' and so were the Minutemen, who debuted new gray jerseys for their second-consecutive ESPN Tip Off Marathon game.


Stories from the LSU media outlets



SportsBuzz.com Feature On UMass Kicker Brendon Levengood

By John Sinnett on November 13, 2013 5:56 AM
Jeff Falk of the Lebanon Sports Buzz has a feature story on UMass kicker Brendon Levengood following his 4-for-4 performance against Northern Illinois.

Out of second bye week, Minutemen hope for better health and a strong stretch run

By John Sinnett on November 13, 2013 5:40 AM
Dan Malone of the Springfield Republican has a story today on how the Minutemen's second bye week this season has helped UMass recover from some injuries and prepare for the final three games of the season including Saturday's home finale against Akron.

Bud Light UMass Hockey Show Tonight (Nov. 12)

By Jillian Jakuba on November 12, 2013 3:24 PM | No Comments | No TrackBacks
The Bud Light UMass Hockey Show returns tonight live from The Hangar Pub and Grill on University Drive in Amherst from 7:00-8:00 p.m. Brock Hines will be joined by head coach John Micheletto as well as player guests sophomore Evan Stack and senior Colin Shea.

Submit a question here or tweet your questions @UMassSportsNet. If you can't make it out to The Hangar, listen live on on WHMP (AM 1400/1240, FM 96.9), online, or on your mobile device via the TuneIn App.

Bud Light UMass Basketball Show Tonight (Nov. 11)

By Cody Lahl on November 11, 2013 9:29 AM
The first Bud Light UMass Basketball Show of the 2013-14 season premieres tonight from 6:30-7:30 p.m. at The Hangar Pub and Grill on University Drive in Amherst. Head coach Derek Kellogg will look back on yesterday's win over Boston College preview tomorrow morning's matchup against LSU. Senior Sampson Carter, a Baton Rouge native, is tonight's player guest.

Submit a question here or tweet your questions @UMassSportsNet. If you can't make it out to The Hangar, listen live on 105.5 WEEI Springfield, online, or on your mobile device via the TuneIn App.

MBB Recaps From Sunday's 86-73 Win Over Boston College

By Brian Henry on November 11, 2013 7:33 AM
Behind the strength of a 33-9 run in the second half and a large majority of the more than 6,000 in attendance at the Garden cheering for the state's flagship basketball program, UMass defeated Boston College in the Inaugural Coaches vs. Cancer Massachusetts Tripleheader on Sunday.

Cady Lalanne had a career game with 27 points and 12 rebounds for his seventh career double-double, Chaz Williams had 20 points and was perfect from outside, making all five 3-pointers and UMass got strong play from up and down the bench.



Republican: UMass field hockey wins second straight A-10 championship

By Cody Lahl on November 10, 2013 6:25 PM

The University of Massachusetts field hockey squad wrapped up its second consecutive Atlantic 10 Championship with a 2-1 victory over Richmond at Garber Field on Saturday afternoon. Jesse Mayfield Sheehan was at the game and has a recap of the action for MinuteFans.

Now that she's in her senior season, the playoffs no longer mean "do or die" for University of Massachusetts field hockey co-captain Hannah Prince. They now mean "do or your college career is over."

"It was an exciting day for us, knowing this could be my last game on Garber (Field)," Prince said.

But Prince's career isn't over yet, and the season isn't over for UMass, as the Minutewomen defeated Richmond again this year by a score of 2-1 to win their second straight A-10 Championship.

For UMass, it was the first set of back-to-back championships since the 2007 and 2008 seasons. For coach Carla Tagliente, it was her second championship in just three seasons with the team...

Read the rest of Mayfield Sheehan's story through MassLive.com here. More information on the Minutewomen can be found through UMassAthletics.com.

MBB Gameday Previews: vs. Boston College, 11/10/13

By Brian Henry on November 10, 2013 8:15 AM
It's here! It's finally here! Time to throw the ball up for real and get the 2013-14 season going. UMass will learn a lot about itself in the next three days, facing Boston College today at 3 pm at the TD Garden and LSU on Tuesday at 11 am in Amherst. We've got everything you need to know in the links below to get you ready for the game with the Eagles.

Massachusetts (0-0) vs. Boston College (0-1)
 Date  Sunday, Nov. 10 at 3:00 p.m. (EST)
 Location  Boston, Mass. | TD Garden
 Tickets  866-UMASS-TIX |   Ticket Info
 TV  NESN |  Channel Finder
 Radio   105.5 FM WEEI (Springfield), 1440 AM WVEI (Worcester); 95.9 FM WATD (South Shore);  Listen Online | Use the  TuneIn App for Mobile Devices to listen
 Online Video  watch None
 Live Stats  gametracker 
 Social Media
    Twitter.com/UMassAthletics
 Game Notes   Massachusetts Notes |  News Clips |  2013-14 Media Guide


Did You Know? George "Trigger" Burke scored 29 points against BC in the first college game played in the Boston Garden in 1951. If you see Trigger at the game today, give him a big Go UMass!

Derrick Gordon begins UMass career with high expectations

By Brian Henry on November 10, 2013 7:57 AM
Matt Vautour of the Daily Hampshire Gazette looks at the expectations that Derrick Gordon has following a season of hype during his redshirt year as a transfer student.

     The guy sitting out always seems to take on mythic status.
     Reports and rumors always had Gary Forbes, Luke Bonner, Rashaun Freeman, Shannon Crooks, Donta Bright and Chaz Williams dominating practice or pickup games the year before each was eligible to suit up.
     The latest sitting-out standout was Derrick Gordon. The combo guard from New Jersey drew rave reviews for his practice play last year as he sat out under NCAA rules after transferring from Western Kentucky, where he led the Hilltoppers in scoring and rebounding en route to the NCAA tournament. His addition to an already strong nucleus has helped feed UMass' high expectations.
     "It's hard to put expectations on a guy who's sat out a year. I think there's going to be some rust," said UMass coach Derek Kellogg, who was the source of some of last year's raves about Gordon's practice. "But I expect him to be a guy that helps us win. He has an opportunity to be in the starting lineup and get integrated into a good team and good program. I expect him to be a guy that comes every day and competes at a high level, puts the ball in the basket in transition, gets to the free throw line quite a bit and comes up with those big game-winning plays."

Read the complete article by clicking the link below...


Republican: East Longmeadow's Julia Weithofer helps send UMass women's soccer to A-10 semifinals

By Jillian Jakuba on November 8, 2013 11:52 AM | 3 Comments | No TrackBacks
Congratulations to the women's soccer team on advancing in the Atlantic 10 tournament, 5-3, on penalty kicks after playing to a scoreless draw over Saint Louis yesterday in Richmond Va. The Minutewomen will face No. 2-seed La Salle tonight in the first semifinal match at 5 p.m.

Dan Malone had coverage of Thursday's match for the Springfield Republican:

MassLive.com: East Longmeadow's Julia Weithofer helps send UMass women's soccer to A-10 semifinals

Republican: UMass Hockey Looks To Carry Momentum Into Home-And-Home Series With UNH

By Jillian Jakuba on November 8, 2013 11:47 AM | No Comments | No TrackBacks
Dan Malone had this preview of UMass hockey's weekend with UNH on MassLive.com, taking a look at the Minutemen coming off a three-point weekend and the Wildcats' early season struggles:

On the outside, the home-and-home series, which opens Friday at the Whittemore Center in Durham, N.H., before returning to the Mullins Center Saturday, is a bit of an anomaly.

The Wildcats, traditionally one of Hockey East's strongest and most consistent teams, were picked in the preseason to finish third in the conference. But after a challenging opening month that's featured matchups with five of the top 16 teams in the nation, including No. 1 Minnesota and No. 2 Michigan twice, New Hampshire's record sits at just 1-5-1 overall and 0-2 in the league.

For UMass coach John Micheletto, it's a strange thing to see. But he knew better than to judge the Wildcats by their record alone, saying it "isn't indicative of the talent that they have or the coaching that they've got."

Read more: UMass hockey looks to carry momentum into home-and-home series with UNH (with video)

Daily Collegian: UMass Hockey Looks To Improve Depth Heading Into UNH

By Jillian Jakuba on November 8, 2013 11:41 AM | 1 Comment | No TrackBacks
Nick Canelas has this preview of UMass hockey's home and home weekend with UNH, which begins tonight in Durham, N.H. with a 7:30 p.m. contest that will be televised on WBIN and Fox College Sports.

Massachusetts hockey coach John Micheletto had high expectations for his first line going into the season.

Seniors Conor Sheary, Michael Pereira and Branden Gracel were placed on the same line midway through last season and immediately jelled, finishing the season as the Minutemen's top three leading scorers and accounting for 35 percent of the team's point production.

Micheletto didn't just expect the trio to pick up where it left off; his intentions were for it to be even better.

"We hope they do more than they did last year," Micheletto said in the preseason.

Read More: UMass hockey looks to improve depth heading into UNH

Collegian: UMass field hockey enters A-10 tournament as No. 1 seed

By Cody Lahl on November 7, 2013 7:01 PM

Jason Kates with the Daily Collegian spoke to head coach Carla Tagliente in anticipation of the Minutewomen hosting the Atlantic 10 Field Hockey Championship at Garber Field on Friday, Nov. 8 and Saturday, Nov. 9. UMass enters the event as the No. 1 seed.

On Friday  afternoon, the No. 12 Massachusetts field hockey team begins its quest for back-to-back Atlantic 10 titles as it takes on Virginia Commonwealth at Garber Field for the semifinal round of the conference tournament.

The Minutewomen (16-4, 7-0 A-10), who received the No. 1 seed after going undefeated in conference play for the first time since the 2010-11 season, already beat the Rams (10-9, 4-3) at home, 3-1, in their first meeting this year. And will do it on an even bigger stage Friday.

UMass coach Carla Tagliente believes playing at home is advantageous for her team, especially in the playoffs...

Read the rest of Kates' story on the Daily Collegian website. More information on UMass field hockey and the Atlantic 10 Field Hockey Championship is available through UMassAthletics.com.



Collegian: Youth and leadership keys to women's basketball success this season

By Cody Lahl on November 7, 2013 3:01 PM

Daily Collegian staff reporter Joey Saade stopped by UMass women's basketball practice this week to speak to members of the team in advance of the season. The Minutewomen are getting set to open the season at home in the Mullins Center on Friday, Nov. 8, at 7 p.m.

The Massachusetts women's basketball team is ready to turn the page.

After a disappointing 3-26 finish to last season--their worst in 23 years--the Minutewomen are focused on flipping the switch and reversing their fortunes.

If they plan on doing so, they will have to get contributions from the younger players on their roster.

Entering the season, nine out of the 13 players on the roster are entering either their first or second year in collegiate athletics. Three of those players are freshmen Alyx Stiff, Meredith Tarver and Kymber Hill. Another newcomer is redshirt sophomore Amber Dillon, who sat out last season after transferring from Maine.

UMass coach Sharon Dawley is looking forward to coaching these young players as the season gets underway...

Read the rest of the story through the Daily Collegian website. More information on the women's basketball program is available through UMassAthletics.com.

UMass' Williams continues to raise eyebrows

By Brian Henry on November 7, 2013 8:01 AM
ESPN.com contributor Donald Hunt spent a few minutes with Chaz Williams and talked to the senior about the season in a blog post promoting the Charleston Classic, which begins in 14 days.

     If you watch 5-9 point guard Chaz Williams play for Massachusetts, the first thing you might notice is his size and ability to break his man down in the open court. The Minutemen's diminutive senior is one of the most explosive players in the Atlantic 10 Conference, leading UMass in scoring last year at 15.5 points a game.
     But when UMass plays in the Charleston Classic presented by Gildan (Nov. 21-24 at TD Arena in Charleston, S.C.), the Brooklyn native will also showcase his ball handling talents, too. A year ago, he averaged 7.3 assists a game, tops in the A-10.
     And, while people are starting to take notice, Williams stays humble. "Coach (Derek Kellogg) did a great job this year setting up our schedule. We have a tough schedule from early on, so from game one we have to get out and understand everything coach wants us to do right away. We don't have much time for room for error because we're playing much better teams."
     The accolades continue to pour down for Williams. He was recently named as a candidate for the Bob Cousy Award that was announced by the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, one of 46 players from Division I on the list.
    "I'm blessed and honored to be mentioned," says Williams. "It's a great feeling to be recognized as one of the better point guards in the country. Whatever I can do to make my team better is what I go out to do. Plus, my teammates do a great job of making shots and getting ball screens for me."
     That's Williams, ever the facilitator.

Collegian: UMass women's basketball seeks redemption

By Cody Lahl on November 7, 2013 7:53 AM
Andrew Cyr with the Daily Collegian talked to head coach Sharon Dawley and sophomore Rashida Timbilla practice this week to preview the upcoming season, which begins on Friday at the Mullins Center against Western Michigan.

No team is more excited to start fresh this winter than the Massachusetts women's basketball team.

The Minutewomen ended the 2012-13 season with 13 straight losses and an overall record of 3-26, which was UMass' worst record since the 1990-91 season.

"Last year is over with and we can't do anything about it," said sophomore forward Rashida Timbilla. "We are a new team this year and that's how we are going to approach every situation. We want to bring a new attitude to this team."

This year's squad, which includes 12 underclassmen, has already brought a new identity to the women's basketball team in just a few short weeks of practice...

The remainder of Cyr's story can be found in the Daily Collegian website. More information on the women's basketball program can be found through UMassAthletics.com.

Time to dance: Collegian basketball special issue 2013-14

By Brian Henry on November 7, 2013 7:38 AM
The weekend many fans have been waiting for is almost here... the start of the 2013-14 college basketball season. The women start things off at the Mullins Center on Friday night and Sunday afternoon, while the men will be in Boston on Sunday for their season-opener. We present the hoops preview issue from the Daily Collegian. 


Collegian: Building his palace: Cady Lalanne primed for big season with Minutemen

By Brian Henry on November 7, 2013 7:29 AM
Mark Chiarelli of the Daily Collegian spent some time with junior center Cady Lalanne and talked about the expectations the 6-foot-10, 250-pound big man has for the 2013-14 season.

     Cady Lalanne receives a bounce pass from point guard Chaz Williams in the post, standing with his back to the basket on the left block.
     Williams' pass is threaded dangerously, reaching around a defender as he practically shovels the ball through a congested paint area where Lalanne is waiting. The ball is swallowed up in one swift motion, Lalanne gathers, spins into the lane and takes just a single step, finishing on the opposite side of the basket. On this occasion, he finishes with a layup. Plenty of other times in practice, he's delivered a dunk so thunderous that it's shaken the base of the standalone hoop inside Curry Hicks Cage.
     Just a few plays later, Lalanne stands at midcourt as the team practices its full court defensive pressure, barking out commands and demonstratively signaling to other members on his team.
     It's a simple practice on Halloween, yet another intrasquad scrimmage for a team anxiously awaiting its season opener on Nov. 10 against Boston College. But if you look closely, the evolution of a center is at work.
     Lalanne's the first to tell you this year is different.

Read the entire story at the link below...

Collegian: Back where he belongs: Derrick Gordon ready to finally step in for UMass

By Brian Henry on November 7, 2013 7:20 AM
Patrick Strohecker of the Daily Collegian has a feature story on sophomore guard Derrick Gordon's basketball & life journey from New Jersey to Kentucky to Amherst.

Collegian: Chiarelli: UMass has chance to revitalize fanbase

By Brian Henry on November 7, 2013 7:14 AM
Daily Collegian writer Mark Chiarelli wrote the following editorial about the state of the UMass men's basketball program.


Collegian: Refocused: Raphiael Putney hopes to bounce back with strong senior season

By Brian Henry on November 7, 2013 7:05 AM
Mark Chiarelli of the Daily Collegian spent some time with Raphiael Putney and talked to the fifth-year senior about how his time with Athletes In Action this past summer helped refocus his energy on making his senior season his best at UMass.

     Raphiael Putney is a seafood guy.
     Apart of the program Athletes in Action this summer, a religious-based basketball retreat, Putney traveled to Spain for a two-week stint and participated in the program's basketball tour while also finding time to enjoy the delicacies of overseas travel.
     "My favorite part of Spain, it was the food," Putney said. "I'm a seafood type of guy so I love seafood.
     "And also, just being around a group of guys from different college teams, there's a lot of players around the nation and you don't get a chance to meet them."
     Putney's trip overseas offered more than the typical basketball tour.
     Athletes in Action is deeply rooted in faith. As its website states, "Athletes in Action has been using sports as a platform to help people answer questions of faith and to point them to Jesus." For Putney, it was the perfect fit.

Read the entire story by clicking on the link below...

Collegian: The final act: Chaz Williams looks to leave his mark at UMass

By Brian Henry on November 7, 2013 6:59 AM
Patrick Strohecker of the Daily Collegian has a preview piece on senior guard Chaz Williams and what he hopes to accomplish in his final season with the Minutemen.

     When you think of Massachusetts men's basketball legends, the names of Julius Erving, Lou Roe and Marcus Camby are the first ones to come to mind.
     Chaz Williams has a chance to be viewed in the same light.
     A redshirt senior from Brooklyn, N.Y., Williams has restored UMass basketball, putting it back in the national spotlight in only two seasons as the team's point guard. He's become one of the best players in the Atlantic 10, with his up-tempo style of play and his ability to seemingly make something happen out of virtually nothing.
     Entering his final college season, his hard work hasn't gone unnoticed. Much like the Minutemen's lofty expectations, he has garnered many of his own. He was named to the preseason All-Atlantic 10 first team and was recently named to the Bob Cousy Award watch list for the second straight year, an annual award given to the nation's top point guard.

Read the full story by clicking the link below

Collegian: UMass men's basketball enters 2013-14 season with heightened expectations

By Brian Henry on November 7, 2013 6:51 AM
It's season preview time and the Massachusetts Daily Collegian has the annual basketball preview issue on newsstands today. Here's a story from one of their hoops beat writers Patrick Strohecker.


Former UMass Shortstop Gary DiSarcina Hired By Los Angeles Angels

By Jillian Jakuba on November 6, 2013 9:45 AM | 2 Comments | No TrackBacks
Congratulations to former UMass shortstop, UMass Hall of Fame member Gary DiSarcina, who was hired by the Los Angeles Angels yesterday as the squad's third base coach.

The hiring was widely covered in the national media:

Los Angeles Times: Angels name former shortstop Gary DiSarcina as third-base coach
Los Angeles Times: Angels' Gary DiSarcina wants to be baseball's best third-base coach
ESPN LA: Angels hire Gary DiSarcina
MLB.com: Former Angel DiSarcina joins club as third-base coach

DiSarcina was featured on UMass Sports Insider back in September:

The Province: Continuing Education Behind Irwin's Ascent With San Jose

By Jillian Jakuba on November 6, 2013 9:39 AM | 17 Comments | No TrackBacks
The Province, out of British Columbia, had this piece chronicling former UMass and current San Jose Sharks' defenseman Matt Irwin's development throughout his hockey career:

"Bill Bestwick marvels at Matt Irwin being paired with Dan Boyle and manning the point on the San Jose Sharks' power play.

He can't help but think of the kid from Brentwood Bay, near Victoria, who showed up in Nanaimo with high BCHL hopes and little meat on his 16-year-old frame.

"He couldn't do a pushup," recalled the former Clippers coach and general manager.

"When he played for me at 16, as an affiliate player, I think he was probably scared to death. At 17, he got his feet wet, and at 18, he started to figure out, 'Hey, I'm not bad.' He was 6-foot-2, but still a skinny runt with no strength in his body. Then at 19, his coordination and dexterity came to the forefront."

Read more: Continuing education behind Matt Irwin's ascent with San Jose Sharks

MBB Recaps From Tuesday's 89-76 Exhibition Win Over AIC

By Brian Henry on November 6, 2013 7:40 AM
     The Massachusetts men's basketball team gave fans their first look at the 2013-14 edition in Tuesday night's exhitibion. As with most exhibitions, there were some bright spots and some not so bright spots. Sampson Carter's 20 points in 20 minutes was solid. Derrick Gordon showed off some of his fast break moves to the basket that fans have been waiting for since her transferred from Western Kentucky. Cady Lalanne and Maxie Esho combined for 24 points, 16 rebounds and three dunks.
     In regards to the tighter hand-checking and block/charge calls with the rules changes, there were 37 fouls and 49 free throws taken, so we didn't have one of the games that have been popping up around the country with 80 fouls and a matching number of freebies, so that was nice. I think most fans will agree that it was a good first game and the coaching staff has some things to work on before, and after, the season-opener with Boston College on Sunday. It is early and the team will improve as the season progresses.


Daily Collegian: UMass men's and women's cross country finish top five in A-10 Championships

By Carl Danoff on November 5, 2013 6:31 PM
Frank Corona of The Daily Collegian caught up with Coach LaFreniere, Coach O'Brien and Rachel Hilliard in this week's cross country article recapping the Atlantic 10 Championship. 

Women's Basketball Coaches Show (Nov. 4)

By Cody Lahl on November 5, 2013 4:54 PM | No Comments | No TrackBacks
With the season opening at the Mullins Center this weekend, the UMass Women's Basketball Coaches Show is back! The first episode is archived through the podcast section of UMassAthletics.com for Minutefans as head coach Sharon Dawley, assistant coach Jen MacAulay and junior guard Emily Mital sat down with WMUA hosts Chris Doherty and John Ryan to preview the upcoming campaign.

Collegian: UMass rowing finishes successful fall season

By Cody Lahl on November 5, 2013 8:20 AM | No Comments | No TrackBacks
Matthew Zackman of the Daily Collegian covered a pair of weekend events for UMass rowing as the squad competed in the Green Monster, hosted by Dartmouth College, and sent part of the squad to the USRowing Collegiate Small Boat Regatta.

The Massachusetts rowing team competed in a pair of events this weekend, with the freshman squad racing in the Green Monster Regatta and the varsity team in Mercer Falls, N.J., racing in the U.S. Rowing Fall Regatta.

The freshmen had three boats entered in the Green Monster Regatta. The 'A' boat finished fourth overall with a time of 16:42, trailing only Dartmouth, Boston College and Northeastern. The other two boats finished 11th and 13th, respectively, out of a pool of 16 boats.

In New Jersey, the Minutewomen partook in time trials on Saturday. They entered 12 boats in the time trials and each boat qualified for the finals, which was on Sunday...

For the rest of Zackman's story check out the Daily Collegian website. More information on UMass rowing can be found through UMassAthletics.com.


MBB Gameday Previews: vs. AIC, 11/5/13

By Brian Henry on November 5, 2013 7:15 AM
The UMass basketball team will welcome Springfield-based American International to the Mullins Center for an exhibition game tonight, beginning at 7:00 p.m. This will mark the first chance for the Minutemen faithful to get a look at the 2013-14 squad before Sunday's official opener against Boston College in the Coaches vs. Cancer Boston Tip Off at the TD Garden.

The doors will open at 6:00 p.m. tonight. Please remember to make sure you include the bar code on the bottom portion of your season ticket. Mullins Militia members can get in at 5:45 p.m. via the South entrance when they show their current membership card.


Recaps Of Hockey's Three-Point Weekend Vs. Maine

By Jillian Jakuba on November 4, 2013 10:21 AM | No Comments | No TrackBacks
UMass hockey enjoyed a successful home weekend, earning three points with a tie and a win over Maine at home in the Mullins Center. Several media outlets had coverage of the two games:

Springfield Republican: Another masterpiece for Mastalerz as UMass hockey team beats Maine 2-1
Bangor Daily News: UMass goalie shuts down Maine hockey team in 2-1 victory
Daily Collegian: Pair of second period goals leads UMass hockey past Maine
Springfield Republican: UMass hockey versus Maine: Minutemen break up first line
Springfield Republican: UMass hockey: Between the Maine games - Analysis and notes
Daily Collegian: Wild play at end of regulation leads to 1-1 tie for UMass hockey
Springfield Republican: Upon further review, UMass hockey gains a 1-1 tie with Maine
Daily Hampshire Gazette: Interference aids UMass in 1-1 tie with Maine

Also, check out the highlights from each game:

UMass men's soccer picks up crucial conference victory

By Brian Henry on November 4, 2013 9:57 AM
The men's soccer team got a big win over St. Bonaventure on Sunday, picking up a 2-1 victory and three points in the Atlantic 10 standings. The Minutemen will host Dayton on Friday at 3 p.m. and Saint Louis on Sunday at 1 p.m. in their final home games of the season.

Collegian: UMass field hockey finishes conference play with win over St. Francis

By Cody Lahl on November 4, 2013 7:52 AM
UMass field hockey used a late rally and clutch overtime goal to defeat Saint Francis (Pa.) 4-3 on the road to clinch an undefeated A-10 regular season on Sunday. Freshman Izzie Delario provided two goals to spur the offense as UMass reached 16-4 overall and 7-0 in Atlantic 10 games. Jason Kates recapped the game for the Daily Collegian.

The No.12 Massachusetts field hockey team concluded its regular season with a come from behind victory against St. Francis 4-3 in overtime.

With the win, the Minutewomen finish undefeated record in A-10 play for the 12th time in school history and now set their sights on a second consecutive A-10 title on Friday at Garber Field for the conference semifinals.

"Going undefeated in conference play is something this team set out to do since day one, and they should be very proud of themselves," UMass coach Carla Tagliente said. "Getting back at home on our surface for the tournament is a huge advantage, so it's important that we recover physically and continue to push forward."

Izzie Delario led the way with a pair of goals, including the game-winner at the 79:35 mark during the extra period...

The remainder of Kates' story can be found on the Daily Collegian website. More information on UMass field hockey is available through UMassAthletics.com.


Washington Post: Briana Scurry's Biggest Save

By Jillian Jakuba on November 3, 2013 9:25 PM | No Comments | No TrackBacks
The Washington Post had this extensive piece on UMass Hall of Famer Briana Scurry and her recovery from the concussion that ended her soccer career:

Read "Her biggest save" on WashingtonPost.com

UMass basketball coach Derek Kellogg discusses mixed feelings about new NCAA hand-checking rules

By Brian Henry on November 3, 2013 4:12 PM
There has been a decent amount of talk lately about the rules changes coming this season on the men's basketball front. UMass men's basketball beat writer from MassLive Dan Malone (@Daniel_Malone) spent some time discussing the rules with head coach Derek Kellogg.  The most obvious changes fans and players will see are in the form of hand-checking and the always controversial block/charge calls. In an attempt to increase scoring and freedom of movement (that's a term the officials are using now), defending players will not be allowed to put hands or arm-bars on an offensive player. Additionally, once an offensive player has started his upward move to pass or shoot, a defensive player cannot draw a charge unless already set.

Below is a chunk of what he wrote...

AMHERST - College basketball fans who like high-scoring games look like they could be in for a treat this season.
     New for 2013-14 is a set of defensive hand-checking rules put into effect by NCAA to do just that -- limit physical play, especially on the perimeter, and help generate more offense.
     Specified tactics under the new rules that will draw automatic fouls from officials include putting two hands on an opponent, keeping one hand or forearm in extended contact with an opponent, jabbing at an opponent with an extended hand or forearm and using an arm bar to block an opponent from moving.
     The rule changes, not surprisingly, have coaches across American divided, some supportive and others skeptical. While higher point totals would likely lead to increased interest and better, more exciting games, many coaches are concerned about the potential for trigger-happy referees sending their star players to the bench earlier in games with foul trouble.
     "The best way to increase scoring and make the game better is to create situations to get more shots," Kansas coach Bill Self told ESPN. "More free throws doesn't make the game better."
     Still, others are cautiously optimistic about the new rules.
     "I think it's good for the game," Kentucky coach John Calipari told reporters in early October. "But we're all wondering whether they will make the same calls in January, February and March that they make in November and December. I think they are convinced they are."
     University of Massachusetts men's basketball coach Derek Kellogg was somewhere in between.


Getting to Know Men's Swimming & Diving Coach Russ Yarworth

By Brian Henry on November 1, 2013 1:42 PM
The Daily Hampshire Gazette did a Q&A with Men's Swimming and Diving Coach, Russ Yarworth. He has some funny answers you might enjoy reading! Here's a sample of some of answers.

Education: Attleboro High School, 1974; bachelor's degree in biochemistry from UMass, 1978; and a master's degree in exercise science from UMass, 1983
Who lives under the same roof as you? My wife, Sue, and all our critters
Children: None
Pets: Dogs -- Chili, a 15-year-old golden retriever, Buster, a 6-year-old Aussie mix, and Jep, a 3-year-old Aussie mix; a cat -- Mika, 14; and a parrot -- Marigold, maybe 50 years old or so
Hobbies: Camping, biking, swimming, kayaking, skiing, gardening
Book you'd recommend to a friend: Anything by Nelson DeMille
Favorite movie/TV show/musical group: Movie -- Mel Brooks' "History of the World" or "Monty Python and the Holy Grail"; TV Show -- "Seinfeld"; Group -- Joe Strummer and The Clash
Five things you can't live without: My wife, my dogs, my siblings, my stopwatches, my health
Last thing you purchased just for fun: A kayak
What's at the top of your bucket list? Skiing the Alps
Life-changing experience: Choosing to attend UMass. It gave me an education, a profession, and a home

Globe: UMass has a dual threat returning kickoffs

By John Sinnett on November 1, 2013 11:39 AM
Jeff Wagenheim of the Boston Globe has a feature today on UMass' new dual threats in the kickoff return game. While Trey Dudley-Giles has been known as one of the MAC's top returners, it was Khary Bailey-Smith who had an electrifying 90-yard touchdown return last week against Western Michigan.

Bud Light UMass Football Podcast Now Available (10/31)

By John Sinnett on November 1, 2013 11:03 AM
If you missed last night's Bud Light UMass Football Radio Show at the Hangar Pub & Grill, you can check out the podcast here. The featured player guests last night were Khary Bailey-Smith and Lorenzo Woodley.

VIDEO: Men's Basketball Practice Update

By John Sinnett on November 1, 2013 11:00 AM
Here is an update from UMass basketball practice as the Minutemen get closer to starting the 2013-14 season.

Republican: UMass basketball coach Derek Kellogg getting closer to finding his starting five

By John Sinnett on November 1, 2013 10:58 AM
Dan Malone of the Springfield Republican has a story on the upcoming basketball season and how head coach Derek Kellogg is getting closer to setting the Minutemen's starting rotation.

Republican: Former UMass star Gary Forbes snags invite to Armor camp

By John Sinnett on November 1, 2013 10:55 AM
Greg Cameron of the Springfield Republican has a story on former UMass standout Gary Forbes who has been invited to the Springfield Armor's training camp later this month. Forbes had previously spent the NBA preseason with the Brooklyn Nets.

Republican: Freshman and Minnesota native Brandon Wahlin is making a speedy adjustment to UMass hockey

By John Sinnett on November 1, 2013 10:48 AM
Dick Baker of the Springfield Republican has a feature on hockey freshman Brandon Wahlin and his journey to UMass. Baker also previews this weekend's series with Maine.

ESPN Boston: Tough matchup looms for UMass

By John Sinnett on November 1, 2013 10:45 AM
Jack McCluskey of ESPN Boston has a preview of this weekend's match-up between UMass and No. 21 Northern Illinois at Gillette Stadium.

Republican: UMass football to wear special American flag-themed helmets in recognition of 'Heroes in Action Day'

By John Sinnett on November 1, 2013 10:42 AM
The UMass football team will wear special helmet stickers tomorrow against Northern Illinois. The UMass logo will have the American flag on the interior to honor veterans, active duty military and first responders.

umass-helmet.jpg

Gazette: UMass opens Hockey East with weekend home series against Maine

By John Sinnett on November 1, 2013 10:40 AM
Mark Chiarelli of the Daily Hampshire Gazette has a preview of the weekend's hockey series against Maine.

Gazette: Beating Northern Illinois a short-term goal for UMass, becoming them a long-term one

By John Sinnett on November 1, 2013 10:37 AM
Matt Vautour of the Daily Hampshire Gazette has a story today on the long term goals of the UMass football program as a member of the FBS which mirrors the recent success of Northern Illinois.

"I think they're a great example of rewards at the end of the road," UMass Director of Athletics John McCutcheon said. "Whether it's Northern Illinois or some other schools who have been through the transition, there are examples. It just takes a while. It can be turned around, but there aren't any quick fixes. Hopefully the decisions will pay off at some point. The Red Sox going from worst to first is the exception not the rule."

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