http://www.govolsxtra.com/news/2010/jan/08/four-vols-miss-kansas-game/ I have been a bit surprised no one has brought this story up (maybe I've just missed it). On the way back from Atlanta last Friday I found out that four Tennessee basketball players had been charged with possession of drugs and guns. If the beating at the hands of the Hokies wasn't enough, this topped it off. I was really looking forward to seeing how this edition of the Vols' men's basketball team was going to do and the arrest of four of their 10 scholarship players dampened my enthusiasm to say the least. I feel that when it comes to players getting in trouble it is very easy to cast stones at other programs. The presence of guns in the last two incidents involving UT athletics has made it even easier for most detractors. I think it's ignorant to ridicule another's favorite program too much because if you think the athletes at your favorite school don't do stupid things, you need to wake up. However, these last two incidents have made it tough to be a Vol fan around some people. I do think when something like this happens, it is much more a reflection on the individual than it is the program. When it becomes a reflection on the program is when it is swept under the rug. I have anxiously awaited Pearl's decision on this matter and I felt at least one of these players had to go. I am a bit surprised that it was Smith that got dismissed. Obviously, the punishment must have fit the crime and I'm glad that Pearl didn't make exceptions based upon a player's importance to the team.
I started a topic but didn't get much response: Tennessee basketball players arrested - suspended Saw today that Smith has been ousted. The other three should be as well unless proven innocent. Whether dismissed or not, the other three did not play in the last game and will not play in the next game... against NUMBER 1 in the nation... Kansas! This is disciplinary action defined. Thanks Coach Pearl for trying to make things better!
I wish him luck getting his life on the right track. This is tough for the Vols and changes the dynamic of the SEC east. I like Bruce Pearl and believe he will get Tennessee through this in a dignified manner. Tough break but you have a good coach to get you through it.
Kansas is in the house. ... the house that Summit built and Pearl resides in. Tennessee is short handed with only 6 scholarship players and a few walk ons. But that is the way I want it. Pearl is showing the world that Tennessee means business when it comes to discipline. Tip off in just a few minutes.
At 13 minute left in the 1st half, the all knowing announcers say: Well, Kansas is pulling away. At the 8 minute mark, we are back to a 19 to 19 tie.
... and up by 2 at the 5:56 mark. It probably won't last because of our lack of quality substitutes. It is fun to which while the stamina holds up for our players that chose to stay out of trouble.
#16 team with 4 missing players is tied at halftime with the #1 team in the land. Great heart Tennessee!
So Tom, does the school stand behind Pearl for taking a stand and allow him to have fewer wins and keep him off of the hot seat? :?:
If by school you mean administration, Mike Hamilton, the AD, is behind him 100%. How long some of the fan base will hold on may be a different story. I think you can tell that I am behind Hamilton 125% by my comments here. :wink:
#1 question that comes to mind here... Does Steve Pearl look out of place in this game? The stereotypical white man that can't jump or hit free throws! 8) Tennessee up by SIX with 8:50 left
Tennessee will win it. 3.8 seconds to go and up by eight. Now no time on the clock. Undermanned Tennessee beats #1 Kansas! :shock: :shock: :shock:
I am watching the Arizona - Green Bay football game which has become very close in the 3rd quarter, 31 - 24 Arizona, Green Bay has come back from 31 - 10. However I have also been following your basketball game on Sportsline Gametracker. Unbelievable that you can beat the top ranked team in the country short 3 scholarship players. Way to go. I see 8 people have played, some of the walkons must be pretty decent. Congratulations.
Great win for the Vols. Losing those players no doubt doubled the resolve of the remaining guys and having a short bench is not necessarily an issue for 1 game.