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MONDAY, APRIL 6, 2:05 P.M.
Sarkisian working to sharpen Huskies' competitive edge in practice

The whooping was a surprise last week at the end of spring practice.

Both the offense and defense shouted in their huddles prior to the final snap inside Dempsey Indoor Stadium. The "game" was tied. Jake Locker hit JermaineKearse on a slant, giving the win to the offense.

That's how Huskies practice is set up this season. It's about winners and losers (and don't get caught on the wrong side of that line).

Head coach Steve Sarkisian is trying to import the ferociousness put forth at USC practice. Sarkisian wants to build a sense of internal competition, feeling it's one of the most efficient ways to get the team toimprove. The new coach is going to put pressure on his players, not just by keeping count, but by also displaying their transgressions and successes for the rest of the team to see. Sending his first clear signal in the approach, Sarkisian did not provide a depth chart before practice opened.

"This is a clean slate," Sarkisian said. "Every kid is going to get a great opportunity to compete, show what they're about, to battle in a very competitive environment. They're going to get put in settings that sometimes are going to be difficult. Sometimes are fun, sometimes are challenging."

Film of one-on-one battles will be shown to the entire team to point out who won and who lost. It's a psychological approach intended to poke pride and slap backs. Sarkisian feels being shown as the winner in such a manner will be a jolt. So, too, will being shown as the loser.

"Part of the issue is that kid who didn't perform or maybe got shown not performing, he's going to develop a mentality that he's going to come back the next day and he's going to show you," Sarkisian said. "That's what we're showing, that's what we're incorporating. If you play 75 plays in a football game, you're not going to win every snap.

"It's a mentality. It's not so much about what happened, it's where your mindset is looking for."

Sarkisian has spoken of another mindset change, altering the sense of inevitable loss which surrounds a team that went 0-12. Now, he'll be pressuring players who may have a more tender psyche than, say, a team that goes to the Rose Bowl annually. Sarkisian knows the pressure situation may not be for everyone.

"I don't ever want to lose any of them. I want to get them all what we want them to become, but I think inevitably that happens," Sarkisian said. "It happens naturally. It doesn't have to be something as coaches we have to tell the kid. I think some kids don't quite develop the way we want them to, and they realize it. They feel it, almost as much not from their peers, just from their own actions."

The new coach and the rest of the coaching staff has been in the ears and faces of players at practice thus far. Assistants following running backs through the hole, telling them when they should have cut. Defensive backfield coaches chasing the ball with defenders. Sarkisian's staff has the big stamp out, and is hammering it down.

"We get to mold and shape these kids the way we want them to be shaped," Sarkisian said. "The way we want them shaped is to be tough, competitive, football players, and a football team that has fun doing it."

THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 9:34 P.M.
Locker outduels Sarkisian in G-O-L-F

With practice over in Dempsey Indoor Stadium, head coach Steve Sarkisian and Jake Locker were running around together.

Each threw the ball off walls, attempted some jump throws and some long bombs. In the end, it was Locker 1, Sarkisian 0.

Day two of spring practice wrapped with Locker beating Sarkisian in G-O-L-F, a match that went extra holes, Locker winning with a long throw off West end game clock.

"A little disappointing," Sarkisian said. "I thought I'd get him, he had a long practice. But I've got to get back in shape, arm's a little tired. He beat me by stroke right there at the end ... one stroke."

Locker throwing the ball without worry is an advancement. He wasn't able to begin throwing until about a month ago, relying on these practices to fine tune his mechanics. Thursday Locker appeared much more accurate than he did in the opening practice, when he said the ball was sailing on him. He hit Jermaine Kearse on a slant on the final play of practice, breaking a tie between the offense and defense.

"I felt good (Thursday)" Locker said. "I completed some more passes, I just felt confident throwing the football."

Locker said he's enjoyed the practices thus far, excited by the energy. Prior to the final play Thursday, secondary coach Jeff Mills waved on the crowd which responded by cheering as the sides lined up for the final play.

"I want to make this as game-like as possible," Sarkisian said. "I want us to put as much pressure as we can on our guys. I thought it was a pretty good setting there for the last play."

Locker said he's using the spring practices to work on his footwork and balance. He also said he's trying to stay on top of the ball better in order to keep it from sailing on him, something that happened a lot last season.

 

THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2:57 A.M.
Dollar brings strong presence to Huskies, but for how much longer?

Washington assistant coach Cameron Dollar has a fire and edge that is difficult for freshman to get used to, but when players get older, they realize how much Dollar meant to their development. With all the coach shuffling going on, it would seem Dollar, a seasoned assistant, would be considered for one of the opening positions.

We took a look at coach Dollar in a story you can read here.

MONDAY, MARCH 30, 5:17 P.M.
Te'o-Nesheim isn't going to sleep on this season

It's not last year's 0-12 record that makes Washington defensive stalwart Daniel Te'o-Nesheim sleep in the Huskies' locker room. It's fear.

Te'o-Nesheim has shacked up on a couch in the locker room numerous times, saying it's the best way to assure attendance at 6 a.m. workouts. The Huskies have been running and lifting during the offseason, with workouts starting at that early hour four days a week.

"I do it all the time," Te'o-Nesheim said of his overnights in the locker room. "I'm too scared. I don't want to miss."

The senior defensive end said the aftermath of missing a workout is much worse than a random blanket and pillow.

"You just pretty much go through hell, so I didn't want to do it," Te'o-Nesheim said with a smile.

Te'o-Nesheim led the team in sacks last season with eight, and is considered an NFL prospect. He said not too much is different about the offseason workouts under the new coaching regime, the morning workouts part of the past offseason routine. Though he did say the approach to weightlifting was slightly different, and the offensive line has clearly slimmed down.

Te'o-Nesheim said a couple players weren't initially fully engaged, but that changed.

"We had a couple at first, but that stopped pretty fast," Te'o-Nesheim said.

As for that 0-12 record? That will never change, though the senior sees it as useful now.

"It's good tool to use whenever you see someone who think they may not have to do something, or should do something, and you can just drop, 'Well, do you remember?' " Te'o-Nesheim said. "I'm not trying to think about it, (but) it'll always be there. Especially for the new guys, I hope they can get it out of their heads as fast as they can."

MONDAY, MARCH 30, 2:24 P.M.
News and notes from Sarkisian's
spring press conference

Steve Sarkisian just wrapped up his spring media luncheon. News and notes:

-- Sarkisian said Jake Locker is 100 percent healthy. The coach said getting Locker to complete 60 percent or more of his pass attempts is a top priority. Sarkisian noted that won't happen over night, but will develop as Locker is more willing to take check downs and shun the big play. The coach made a comparison to Carson Palmer's development at USC, where Palmer developed through his junior year then had an outstanding senior year.

-- Former defensive lineman Senio Kelemete will be moved to the offensive line. Sarkisian isn't sure whether Kelemete will play guard or tackle, but said he wanted someone with the nastier defensive mindset on the offensive side of the ball.

-- Pounds are being shed. Sarkisian said the offensive line has lost 200 pounds in the 10 weeks of offseason work, the coaching staff trying to make the line more mobile than a year ago.

-- The majority of the team is healthy physically and academically. Players ruled out of spring practice: Safety Jason Wells (Achilles, though a partial, not full, tear), offensive lineman Terrance Thomas (foot/ankle), and running back Brandon Yakaboski (ACL). Players who will be limited in spring practice: Cornerback Vonzell McDowell (offseason shoulder surgery), safety Victor Aiyewa (sports hernia), tight end Romeo Savant (back), linebacker Kurt Magnum (knee), and running back Terrance Dailey ("A few issues," Sarkisian said.)

-- The linebackers will see a shift, though the core group remains. Donald Butler will likely move to the inside, where Trenton Tuiasosopo also plays. That leaves E.J. Savannah and Mason Foster on the outside. Sarkisian said the linebackers will rotate quite a bit. He also said Savannah showed up weighing around 240 pounds, but is down to 230.

-- The prevailing theme of Sarkisian's practice philosophy was hammered on: competition. Sarkisian said all players come in with a clean slate, that's why there is no depth chart at this point, rather just a roster.

-- Sarkisian said the players have been very willing during the offseason, and that the coaches are trying to, "find that fuse in them and light it again."

-- First practice is tomorrow starting at 4 p.m. As a reminder, the public is welcome. Sarkisian said practice will end around 6, 6:30.

More to come later, including why defensive lineman Daniel Te'o-Nesheim is sleeping in the locker room, and a look at the psychology Sarkisian and staff is trying to install.

SATURDAY, MARCH 28, 4:09 P.M.
Breaking down the Huskies' roster:
Justin Holiday

What we saw from him: After minimal impact his freshman season, Holiday had a large impact his sophomore year. One of Washington's key defenders, his athleticism and size bothered most players he defended, including Arizona State's James Harden. At the start of the season, Holiday was able to hit a baseline jump shot, but as the season wore on, his shooting percentage declined. Holiday is also excellent at entering the ball to the post. Statistics don't explain his contributions well.

What next year will bring: More strength and offense. Holiday was one of two Washington players Purdue coach Matt Painter instructed his team to ignore in the second round of the NCAA Tournament. His jump shot must be more effective since teams will treat him the same way next season until he proves otherwise. Adding weight should help Holiday. He'll be coming off the bench again next year, an indicator of Washington's depth.

THURSDAY, MARCH 26, 2:45 P.M.
Breakin down the Huskies' roster:
Venoy Overton

What we saw from him: Mayhem. After accepting his role off the bench, Overton changed numerous games with his physical defense and mouth running nearly as fast as his feet. Huskies announcer Bob Rondeau called him, "Venoying." I liked to refer to him as the "Hype Machine" since his emotion influenced the game so strongly. Opponents had other names for him. Though Overton came off the bench after starting, his minutes were the same as his freshman season. His scoring average went up, as did his field-goal percentage and free-throw percentage.

What next year will bring: Another loaded backcourt. With Abdul Gaddy coming in, it will be tough for Overton to get back into the starting lineup. Ultimately, will Overton care? Maybe. More important is Overton needs to gain strength, something that should happen with strength coach Matt Ludwig around. Ludwig was able to strengthen Justin Dentmon to a point that Dentmon had a career year. For Overton, more strength will help him be sturdier when he flies into the lane, and on balance when he shoots his jump shot. Overton has shot 25 percent from behind the 3-point line in his two seasons. He'll never be a 3-point shooter, but that percentage needs to rise.

TUESDAY, MARCH 24, 6:54 P.M.
Breakin down the Huskies' roster:
Matthew Bryan-Amaning

We continue our look at Washington's roster today, moving into the players who will be juniors next season.

Matthew Bryan-Amaning

What we saw from him: Flashes and frustration. Bryan-Amaning was a force in non-conference play, dominating against smaller and less talented players. Bryan-Amaning scored 23 points and had 12 rebounds against Portland State. He had a double-double against Montana. His high after was 17 points against Stanford Jan. 8. He hit double figures in points just twice more. All of his numbers reduced significantly as the season went on, including his minutes. As his minutes dwindled, his shooting percentage dwindled. It seemed his confidence was in tow. Bryan-Amaning's first attempt would often dictate the rest of his game. If his first shot went down, it was a major boost. If it didn't, doubt crept in.

What next year will bring: Bryan-Amaning will be expected to do a large part of the replacing of Jon Brockman. His wingspan and shake-and-bake in the post can make him a formidable scorer. Bryan-Amaning appears to prefer the left block, turning toward the middle of the lane for the majority of his shots. It would be nice to see him add a drop step toward the baseline for a direct right-handed hook. Bryan-Amaning appears to nullify his length at times with his up-and-under moves, opposed to going straight above defenders. There was also a lot of talk about Bryan-Amaning's early success being a result of him taking his time on the block. Expect strength trainer Matt Ludwig to get a hold of Bryan-Amaning during the offseason and strengthen him. Bryan-Amaning is also a smart, amicable person who has the combination of game and personality to be a fan favorite.

MONDAY, MARCH 23, 7:27 P.M.
Breakin down the Huskies' roster:
Quincy Pondexter

With the season over, we'll spend this week taking a look at each returning Washington player. We'll start from the top with the only likely returning senior.

Quincy Pondexter

What we saw from him: Pondexter came into preseason with an extra 10 pounds of muscle. He spent the summer working on guard skills at different camps, including a week at Impact Basketball in Las Vegas where he guarded diminutive NBA guards like Tyronn Lou and Kyle Lowry. Pondexter scored zero points in the opener against Portland, then worked his way into the flow of the offense. By the end of the year, he was a dominant high-post presence, pushing around any smaller guards or small forwards. Even Purdue's 6-foot-8, 212-pound Robbie Hummel had no answer for Pondexter in the tournament. Pondexter finished the season averaging 12.1 points and 5.9 rebounds. He shot a gaudy 51 percent from the field. His 13 blocks were more than he had his first two years combined (11).

What next year will bring: Leadership will be expected, though Pondexter is rather quiet. As much as the physical part of his game has evolved, the mental part has always seemed to be the most challenging for him. Pondexter is renowned for being hard on himself, to a point that it hinders his success at times. Now he'll be epexcted to have his own mind right, and help others on the team get theirs right. It's likely Pondexter will come back a little bigger and stronger. He'll need to adjust to getting double-teamed a lot next season. It would be nice to see him expand his range a bit, making the 15-17-footer a real weapon. If he adds that, Pac-10 first team honors should be an expectation.

SATURDAY, MARCH 21, 5:52 P.M.
Sluggish first half too much for Washington to overcome

It's over.

Washington's run in the NCAA Tournament came to an emotional end Saturday, the Huskies never able to get a lead in the second half, losing to Purdue, 76-74.

Purdue's defense dominated the first half, Washington's defense dominating the second.

Washington, down 11 at halftime, pushed back and pushed back, but never took the lead, closing within two on multiple occasions. Quincy Pondexter's layin as time expired produced the final score.

The game ends the career of Jon Brockman, the senior finishing with 20 points and 18 rebounds. Brockman scored eight consecutive points at the end of the game, trying to drag Washington to a win.

But he was unable to, Purdue hanging on despite Washington scoring 46 second-half points. It was a stagnant first half that did Washington in, the Huskies unable to penetrate with their guards.

That changed late in the second half, the Huskies able to break down the Purdue defense and get into the lane.

Washington finished 26-9.

Much more to come.

FRIDAY, MARCH 20, 2:35 A.M.
Pondexter powers Huskies past Mississippi State

This was a power performance.

An unabashed hammering, Washington pushing and pounding its way to a first-round win over Mississippi State, 71-58.

Mississippi State came into the game a fanciful pick for the upset, touted as a team seeded too low. But it wasn't prepared to deal with Washington's physical play.

"It's very obvious they were more physical than we were," Mississippi State coach Rick Stansbury said.

That wasn't just represented in mass, but even out top where the guards battled. Venoy Overton was at it again, prodding and poking Mississippi State point guard Dee Bost, Bost complaining to the officials shortly after Overton's entrance.

As for those operating closer to the basket, it was a bruising effort. All season Jon Brockman has been able shove his hind quarters around for position against opponents equal in size. Thursday he faced Mississippi State's Jarvis Varnado, built thin enough to slide through most sink drains.

Brockman pivoted into the Bulldogs' junior, bashing his way toward the hoop, nullifying Varnado's ability to block his shot. Brockman jumps into defenders, creating space or grounding them while shoving the ball up toward the hoop. The SEC's defensive player of the year had no answer for this Cro-Magnon approach, getting into foul trouble while being pushed around.

Across the lane, junior Quincy Pondexter punished whoever Mississippi State trotted out to guard him. Preseason, Pondexter said he put on 10-15 pounds of muscle over the summer and was, "looking forward to unleashing it." Fitting description for the damage he did against the Bulldogs Thursday.

In the mid or even high post, Pondexter sealed a diminutive defender, accentuating his height and weight advantage. His shots were taken from a range that would leave a middle schooler with a high shooting percentage.

"He was just a huge match up," Stansbury said of Pondexter. "He's bigger and stronger than he looks. On paper they list him 6'6", 215. Boy, he looks bigger than that to me."

Pondexter will be an issue for Purdue Saturday, as well. A preliminary guess is he gets matched with guard E'Twaun Moore, a 6-foot-4, 188-pound sophomore. Washington won't be able to play Pondexter at the power forward spot as it did much of Saturday against Mississippi State, but the junior should be faced with another small guard much of the game.

When their game tips at 2:40 p.m. Saturday, Washington will be dealing with a more stout opponent. Thursday, the Bulldogs were shoved aside with a whimper.

THURSDAY, MARCH 19, 3:45 P.M.
Pondexter powers Huskies past Mississippi State

So much for the bad draw.

Washington trailed by four points early, but dominated Mississippi State the rest of the way, winning 71-58.

Quincy Pondexter scored a season-high 23 points to lead Washington.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 18, 11:35 A.M.
Obama doesn't bill the Huskies
as contenders

In another show of its power and marketing genius, ESPN was able to have President Obama fill out a bracket for them.

Unlike many national folks, ESPN's Jay Bilas put the Huskies on "Upset Alert" last night on SportsCenter, Obama has Washington winning in the first round. But that's it. The president has them getting bounced in the second round by Purdue.

You can check out Obama's bracket here.

MONDAY, MARCH 16, 1:12 P.M.
What do the experts think of Washington's chances?

One upside of the millisecond society we live in is media experts fill out their brackets as soon as the field is announced. Here's a look around the Web at thoughts about Washington and its chances on Thursday:

Sports Illustrated's Seth Davis
Davis may have been the biggest Husky backer, saying on the Selection Show he thought Washington was a dangerous team. Davis backed that up today by listing Washington as the underrated team in the West Region. Davis' reasoning is a storyline we have repeated locally:

Underrated: Washington

I realize the Huskies are a four seed, but for a team that won the Pac-10 regular season outright and has been ranked in the top 15 the last few weeks, they are generating little buzz. Washington looked a little ragged at the start of the season because it was working in a freshman point guard, but Isaiah Thomas really blossomed during league play. His improvement has allowed Justin Dentmon to play off the ball, where he's more comfortable. Plus, the Huskies have one of the nation's best defensive rebounders in Jon Brockman.

Yahoo! Sports
They had a bevy of experts fill outs brackets.

Greg Anthony has Washington losing in the first round.

Dan Wetzel has Washington losing in the first round.

Jason King has Washington winning two games, the losing to Connecticut in the Sweet 16. Wonder where Richard Hamilton would be during that game ...

Gary Ahern has Washington winning in the first round, losing in the second.

And, no word if he is a UW alum or not, Mike Huguenin has Washington advancing to the Final Four, then losing to Louisville.

CBS Sportsline
Same deal as Yahoo!, with several writers filling out a bracket.

Gary Parrish has Washington winning in the first round, then losing to Purdue.

Gregg Doyel has Washington winning in the first round, then losing to Purdue.

Brian De Los Santos has Washington losing to Mississippi State.

Mike Freeman has Washington winning in the first round, then losing to Purdue.

Foxsports.com

Their expert, Jeff Goodman, had this to say in his look at the West Regional:

No. 13 Mississippi State vs. No. 4 Washington — The SEC tourney champs are able to match Washington's athleticism and have a guy in Jarvis Varnado that can make up for plenty of mistakes on the perimeter. If the Bulldogs are making shots from the perimeter, they can pull off the upset.

Mississippi State shoots 44 percent from the field, and 36 percent from behind the 3-point line.

How far will Washington go?

 

SUNDAY, MARCH 15, 8:39 P.M.
Washington will start early in the afternoon on Thursday

Washington will play Thursday in Portland 25 minutes after the conclusion of the day's first game, Northern Iowa vs. Purdue, which tips at 11:20 a.m.

With that schedule, I would say be in your seat or out of a meeting by 12:45 p.m. Don't forget (and don't tell your employer I reminded you), you can stream all the games live on the Web, assuming they're not blocked at your office by The Man.

Also in Portland that day, Akron plays Gonzaga at 4:25 p.m., then Western Kentucky plays Illinois 30 minutes afterward.

SUNDAY, MARCH 15, 3:02 P.M.
Washington to play Mississippi State in the first round in Portland

When CBS' Greg Gumbel announced Washington would be a four seed and heading to Portland, those gathered in the Don James Center rejoiced.

That joy turned quickly to trepidation as soon as the Huskies' opponent was slotted in. Mississippi State (23-13, 9-7) was slotted a line below the Huskies, the SEC tournament champs instantly recognized as not-your-average 13 seed. The other No. 13 seeds in the tournament are Portland State, Akron, and Cleveland State. Washington beat Portland State and Cleveland State during the non-conference portion of its schedule.

The Washington staff had little knowledge of the Bulldogs, coach Lorenzo Romar saying he would be able to give reporters a dissertation on Mississippi State Monday. One thing that was known, is 6-foot-9 Mississippi State forward/center Jarvis Varnado doesn't accept any weak stuff in the lane.

Varnado is averaging 4.7 blocks per game, leads the Bulldogs in scoring at 13.1 points, and pulls in nine rebounds.

Romar said one thing about shot blockers is you have to go right at them, any hesitation making them even more effective. Washington's Quincy Pondexter said he worked an Adidas camp in Dallas, Texas, with Vernado over the summer and played against Varnado there. Jon Brockman thought he would likely end up dealing with the spindly Vernado. With his usual air of confidence, diminutive Washington freshman Isaiah Thomas said, "I'm never scared, so I'm going to do what I do," when it comes to attacking the shot blocker.

As for common opponents, something Romar said he does not put much stock into, there are a couple. Mississippi State lost to Washington State, 63-52, in Newark, N.J., back on Nov. 28. The Bulldogs beat Florida, 80-71, March 4 in Starkville, Miss.

Much more to come.

SUNDAY, MARCH 15, 3:02 P.M.
Washington to play Mississippi State in the first round in Portland

The NCAA Tournament brackets just came out, and Washington is a No. 4 seed that will face No. 13 Mississippi State Thursday in Portland. More to come.

SATURDAY, MARCH 14, 8:58 P.M.
More on Overton vs. Glasser, other thoughts following Friday

When the TV announcers were talking about the pregame trash-talking between Venoy Overton and Derek Glasser, you knew something would come to a head.

Both have an exceedingly annoying style of play. Bumping, chipping, chirping, flopping. Both do it. Depending on who you root for, one's a punk and the other was wronged.

But both were working gamesmanship.

Overton expressing what the Washington guards felt heading into the game: No way can Arizona State's backcourt give them problems. Each felt they could dominate Glasser or Ty Abbott, for that matter. It was typical Overton, pushing the line, pushing the line, pushing the line, creating havoc on the court. No one in the conference is responsible for more irritants behind the play, nudging an opponent, slapping the ball away heading into a timeout, than Overton.

As for Glasser, late in the game he tried to earn that nomination from the Academy that has been so elusive. When he was grabbed by Isaiah Thomas then careened into Overton and went flailing to the ground, it would not have been a surprise to hear a British accent from announcer Barry Tompkins. Glasser's routine following contact would have made an international footballer proud.

After such a ferocious game, the guards were equally stoic and hazy on the details of their interactions. Glasser telling the Arizona Republic, "It happened so fast I can't really remember what happened." No word on the wink and the nudge during that statement. Overton went Las Vegas public relations on reporters, saying what happens on the court stays on the court.

In the end, they become a sports cliche. You love them on your team, can't stand them on the other.

-- What could have been an enormous influence on the game following the altercation never happened. Glasser, Overton and James Harden received technical fouls. Each counted as a personal foul. That hiked Harden's total to three with 13:43 left in the game. Glasser was benched to catch his wits and wind, forcing Harden to bring the ball up. Seemed like a chance for Washington to trap him, attempting to draw a fourth foul, knowing he was going to turn back left at some point while dribbling. The Arizona State zone defense did well to hide him at the other end.

-- I don't buy into the "they're tired from trying to come all the way back" theory, especially with Washington. All year its depth and versatility have been two of the biggest factors in its success. Was it a big rally Friday? Yes. Was it enough to explain Arizona State putting the game away with a 17-2 run? No. Every Arizona State starter played 29 minutes or more. The leader on the Huskies? Isaiah Thomas at 32. The Arizona State starters played 171 minutes, Washington's 137. Both teams played the night before.

-- The loss should have little impact on the Huskies' NCAA Tournament seed. For weeks they have been projected as a four seed going to Portland. The loss to Arizona State shouldn't change any of that.

-- Kudos to USC coach Tim Floyd. His Trojans were rightfully labeled underachievers all year prior to the Pac-10 tournament. Two of his best players, Daniel Hackett and Dwight Lewis, were arguing with each other before, during and after the game against Washington at USC. This team appeared on its way to fracturing and missing the NCAA Tournament. Now they head into the tournament with what was someone else's bid Saturday morning. Floyd held his talent together.

SATURDAY, MARCH 14, 8:12 P.M.
Fans can watch the Selection Show with the Huskies in the Don James Center

If you want to learn the seeding of the Huskies basketball team Sunday, you can do it with them.

The team and coaches will gather at the Don James Center in Husky Stadium to watch the 3 p.m. selection show. The school said the public is invited, there is no admission charge, and parking is free. Doors open at 2:30 p.m., and Washington coach Lorenzo Romar will address the crowd at 2:45 p.m.

FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 8:58 P.M.
Washington silenced by Glasser, Arizona State

At times, this looked like a Vince McMahon sponsored event opposed to a tournament funded by an insurance company.

After being decimated in the first half, entering the break trailing 38-21, Washington was able to grind back and take a lead in the second half. But Arizona State closed the game on a 17-2 run, moving to the championship of the Pac-10 Tournament Saturday at noon on CBS. Arizona State will face either UCLA or USC.

The verbal battle started before the game, Venoy Overton and Arizona State guard Derek Glasser chirping at each other. They would get together later in the game when Overton, Glasser and Sun Devils star James Harden ended up tangled. After scoring, Harden walked into Overton, who fell back and grabbed Harden's jersey, trying to pull him to the ground as he fell. Overton fell and Harden tripped away, then Glasser stepped over Overton. While Glasser straddled Overton, not allowing him to get up, most players on the floor came together and started pushing each other.

Things reached such a dicey point that Washington coach Lorenzo Romar sprinted onto the court, swiftly grabbing Overton and shoving him away. Romar continued to clear his players out of the fracas with force, shoving Isaiah Thomas and Quincy Pondexter toward the Washington bench.

Once the referees sorted it out, Glasser, Harden and Overton received technical fouls.

The chippiness of the game becomes a dual storyline, mixing with Washington's recovery from 21 points down. Looking dysfunctional in the first half, Washington rallied to take a one-point lead when Thomas scored on the fastbreak to make it 55-54 Washington with 8:15 left.

But Glasser hit two 3-pointers down the stretch and Arizona State had the final say on a night that was as much a war of words as a basketball battle.

We'll have more thoughts on this game coming up.

FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 4:06 P.M.
Join our live chat during the Washington/Arizona State game

We'll be chatting live again today during the game. Things will get under way around 5:45 p.m. Hope to hear from you.

THURSDAY, MARCH 12, 4:41 P.M.
Washington gets past Stanford, will face Arizona State next

Jon Brockman led Washington with 20 points, helping Washington beat Stanford 85-73. Washington will face Arizona State in the next round of the Pac-10 Tournament, Friday at 6 p.m.

You can find Thursday's box score here.

THURSDAY, MARCH 12, 2:15 P.M.
Enter our live chat for the Washington/Stanford game here

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 11, 8:58 P.M.
Join us for a live chat during the Huskies/Stanford Thursday

We'll be chatting live right here in the blog on Thursday during Washington's second-round game against Stanford in the Pac-10 tournament. Come with your thoughts and tell your friends.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 11, 7:58 P.M.
Huskies to face Stanford in second round of Pac-10 tournament

Washington will face Stanford (18-12) Thursday at 2:30 p.m. in the second round of the Pac-10 Tournament.

Washington swept Stanford this season, squeaking out a win at home Jan. 8, 84-83, and winning at Stanford Feb. 8., 75-68.

Stanford beat Oregon State 59-54 in the first round of the tournament Wednesday night to advance.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 11, 4:47 P.M.
Are the Pac-10 awards enough to silence Romar's critics?

They certainly should be.

Criticized because his team appears to run about three set plays, Lorenzo Romar being named Pac-10 coach of the year, with "his" players no less, should be plenty to mute critics.

What critics? The ones that were swooping and circling, mostly from afar, prior to the season. Not that Romar and his program should have been above any criticism. Back-to-back seasons without making the NCAA tournament was troubling. But to the point that his job was in jeopardy? That was a bit much.

There are some crucial points to consider when assessing the past two seasons, particularly the 2006-07 season.

As assistant coach Cameron Dollar pointed out when I talked to him Tuesday, sometimes teams max out. That season was considered a disappointment to fans because the Huskies won only 19 games and missed the NCAA Tournament after a stout start and stupendous preseason expectations. But the 19 wins may have been the best that roster could muster.

It was a young and often injured team. Spencer Hawes, though a great talent, was a freshman. Jon Brockman, a sophomore. Adrian Oliver started at times as a freshman. If two games turn the other way, like the double-overtime loss at No. 14 USC or the one-point loss at Stanford, the Huskies make the tournament. Even a one-and-done appearance in March would have muffled the grumbling that preceded this year.

Not to mention if Hawes stayed one more season, which he should have. The Huskies wouldn't have been piecemealing the roster together on the way to a sub-.500 season in 2007-08. The failure that season had more to do with recruiting, which is Romar's supposed strength, that led to a lack of depth. That negative superceded any mistakes made in Xs or Os.

Basketball purists will still look at each other and wonder what play Washington is running, if any. If there weren't two types of defenses, a high-trapping zone and man-to-man, played in the conference, Washington would run even fewer plays. But what its doing obviously works at this point.

MONDAY, MARCH 9, 12:42 P.M.
Romar named Pac-10 coach of the year

PHOTO BY DREW SELLERS / SEATTLESPORTSONLINE.COM

The season keeps getting sweeter for Lorenzo Romar.

Monday morning he was named Pac-10 coach of the year, likely edging Oregon State's Craig Robinson in the voting done by the coaches themselves. Only the winner is revealed.

There were more awards for Washington, the conference's top team. Isaiah Thomas was named freshman of the year and second-team all-conference; Justin Dentmon most improved; and Jon Brockman and Dentmon were named first-team all-conference.

Venoy Overton received honorable mention in all-defensive team voting.

Arizona State's James Harden was named player of the year. USC's Taj Gibson was named defensive player of the year.

You can find the complete list here.

SUNDAY, MARCH 8, 4:30 A.M.
Seattle Sports Online's photo gallery from Saturday's game

You can see it here.

SUNDAY, MARCH 8, 4:30 A.M.
Huskies able to come full circle after opening loss at Portland

A look at how this team merged to become Pac-10 champions. You can read it here.

SUNDAY, MARCH 8, 12:49 A.M.
Overton, Rochestie get into it on the court, play it off off the court

This was actually admiration for Washington coach Lorenzo Romar.

"Venoy Overton is just becoming a giant pest," Romar said.

Washington State's Taylor Rochestie, and a growing list of Pac-10 opponents, would agree.

Overton and Rochestie got into it a bit Saturday. Both were giving performances that require SAG cards.

Rochestie had the lead role, pretending to be tripped or knocked to the ground multiple times in the half, then turning to see of he received the call.

Overton threw his hands up to show he had been pushed with the force of hurricane winds, though Rochestie had given him a slight push.

The two talked a lot. Rochestie approaching Overton when the Tacoma native stood on the foul line. Rochestie had a lot to say, Overton not appearing to mince words, the discussion ending when Quincy Pondexter escorted Rochestie away. The oddest part is none of the three referees noticed Rochestie walking right up to Overton.

"He told me to chill out, I'm not cool," Overton said of Rochestie's comments when the two talked at the foul line. "I just said I don't want to be cool."

"I didn't want him to get beat up by Rochestie," Pondexter joked.

The conversation came after Overton drove hard and drew a foul on Klay Thompson. Overton and Thompson pushed each other off a bit after the whistle, then Overton quickly proceeded to the foul line. That's when Rochestie approached.

Overton said he told Rochestie afterward that what happens on the court stays there, and he respects him.

SATURDAY, MARCH 7, 4:32 P.M.
Washington gets past Washington State, wins Pac-10 outright

Washington takes down Washington State, claiming its first outright Pac-10 title in 5 years. You can check out our story here.

SATURDAY, MARCH 7, 12:32 A.M.
Will they win the first Pac-10 outright title in 56 years?

Washington State at Bank of America Arena on Senior Day with the Pac-10 title on the line (sort of). Couldn't be a more engaging scenario.

The first meeting between the Cougs and the Huskies evolved into a blowout when Washington was able to push the tempo in the second half. You can check out our preview of Saturday's game here. We identify three keys, breakdown the starting matchups and you can listen to coach Lorenzo Romar talk about Senior Day.

 

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 4, 4:53 P.M.
Pondexter says he'll be fine for Washington State game

After his scary fall Tuesday night, Quincy Pondexter assures that he will be ready to go Saturday.

"I'll be able to play," Pondexter said Wednesday. "Woke up pretty rough this morning. It was really sore, the whole area was tender, I'll be fine."

The two-day layoff will help Pondexter receive some extra time to recover. The Huskies did not practice Wednesday.

He went over the incident again, saying the trainers strongly advised him not to go out and play, but he was bent on doing otherwise.

"It was one of those moments when everything flashes through your head," Pondexter said. "I just wanted to come out that second half and at least play a couple minutes to show everybody I'll be fine and don't have anything to worry about."

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 4, 2:50 A.M.
Why was Pondexter put back into the game after getting flipped?

PHOTO BY DREW McKENZIE / SEATTLESPORTSONLINE.COM

Junior Quincy Pondexter usually receives texts and calls from family following games, and Tuesday night was no different.

Pondexter said his family called about "1,000 times" after seeing him flip over Seattle U's Chris Gweth and come crashing to the floor. Pondexter said he bruised ribs and his right arm, and will be getting more treatment today. He also said a little prayer.

"I was praying to God in mid-air that I didn't get hurt," Pondexter said.

Pondexter's heels-over-head maneuver had everyone stunned. The crowd went silent, coach Lorenzo Romar trotted onto the court, and the bench stared. All wondering the same thing: Did we just lose one of our best players in a non-conference blowout?

"Heart stopped a little bit," Jon Brockman said. "I still didn't know what was wrong with him. But they came back and made sure to tell us he was all right. Thankfully, we're all healthy still. He's a big piece of what we're doing."

Romar went out for a personal assessment to get the straight dope from Pondexter.

"I just asked him, 'What was it?' and he said, 'Ribs,' " Romar said. "I just didn't want him to say knee. That's the one thing I didn't want to hear."

While warning Pondexter's full prognosis won't come until Wednesday, Romar explained why Pondexter was put back into the game in the second half.

"If he couldn't have gone, we wouldn't have played him," Romar said.

For his part, Pondexter said he asked to be put back in.

Seeing him return in the second half was baffling. The game was not close, nor would it have been if Pondexter sat. Opposed to playing, he could have been receiving treatment the entire time in preparation for Saturday's game against Washington State with the Pac-10 outright title at stake.

Instead, he ran gingerly up and down the court, playing six second-half minutes. Starters Justin Dentmon, Darnell Gant and Brockman were all subbed before Pondexter.

TUESDAY, MARCH 3, 8:48 P.M.
Pondexter hurt after flipping over
Seattle U player in first half

Quincy Pondexter went up to take a lob from Venoy Overton and was under cut by Seattle University's Chris Gweth in the first half Tuesday night. Pondexter flipped slowly, his feet going into the air as his head went toward the ground. Pondexter landed in a heap, remained on the floor and was writhing in pain. Bank of America Arena went silent, and Pondexter was eventually helped up by trainers and walked off slowly. Pondexter appeared to be all right, holding his right arm tight to his body.

Pondexter has come out for the second half and is starting. The official word is Pondexter has bruised ribs on his right side.

This is just the kind of worst-case scenario involved in playing this makeup game at this time. Washington does not need the win, it can only stand to hurt them, in a variety of ways. Washington leads 42-19 at the half.

Pondexter is definitely limping in the second half. Inexplicably, he remains in a 52-21 game with 16:47 left.

THURSDAY, FEB. 26, 1:17 A.M.
Showdown with Arizona State on tap tonight at Bank of America Arena

First place in the conference will be determined tonight, when the Huskies host Arizona State. After holding James Harden in check the first meeting, can Washington do it again? We breakdown the matchups and make a pick. Check out our preview here.

 

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 25, 2:04 A.M.
Past criticism got to Pondexter

It's a well-known tale by now.

Quincy Pondexter came to Washington with hype and hopes, much of both based around the Fresno, Calif., native being one-and-done. Hasn't worked out that way.

After a solid freshman season, at least in regard to scoring, Pondexter's sophomore season was difficult, to be kind.

Now, he is putting together his best year as a Husky, seemingly getting stronger as the year moves on. But he hasn't forgotten all the grief received when he struggled the past two years.

"It did get to me," Pondexter said of the constant criticism. "I got down on myself a lot because I thought there was so much more I could have done, and we weren't winning as much, so that really took a toll on my body and mind.

"I've dedicated myself to this program and winning games. I took away all my individual goals of being really successful and leaving and just staying here and winning a championship."

Pondexter is still doing his late-night workouts, using the extra work as therapy. The junior is renowned for being hard on himself. Perhaps that has changed during his recent scoring run?

"Not at all. I'm probably even more critical of myself now," Pondexter said. "Moves I feel like I should have made, winning plays I should have made for our team. It just haunts me every night it seems like."

TUESDAY, FEB. 24, 11:22 P.M.
Thomas finds himself in a new position in the final minutes against USC

Down the stretch Saturday against USC, Isaiah Thomas sat. And sat. And sat. Crunch time came and went with the likely conference freshman of the year on the bench, a place unfamiliar to him, particularly during that portion of games.

"That was weird," Thomas said. "We won, so I'm not going to complain about it. That was something different. I've never had that."

While Venoy Overton and Justin Dentmon filled the guard positions, Thomas says he just tried to maintain his focus.

"(I) had to stay positive, be ready," Thomas said. "That's just like somebody who doesn't play a lot has to stay positive and be ready."

Coach Lorenzo Romar said it was a one-time move brought on by the circumstances of the game, feeling Thomas didn't need an explanation about who was on the floor and who was not. Thomas wouldn't have minded one, though.

"I would liked to have heard from him, but we won and everything is out the window when you win," Thomas said. "You can't complain. It was something that never happened, and I hope it never happens again, but we won."

Thomas was 2-for-7 on the night, scoring a season-low four points. An extra-motivated Thomas is likely bad news for Arizona State.

Thomas and Dentmon lit up Arizona State guards Derek Glasser and Ty Abbott in the first meeting, the Huskies duo combining for 55 points. Glasser and Abbott combined for a cringe-worthy 3-for-21 shooting performance.

"We just was in attack mode, being aggressive from the jump," Thomas said to explain their success.

TUESDAY, FEB. 24, 10:39 A.M.
Softball moves to top ranking

Thanks to dominance from Danielle Lawrie and a 1-0 win over No. 2 Florida last week, the undefeated Huskies have moved to No. 1 in the country according to the ESPN.com poll. Washington is ranked third in the coaches' poll, but received the most first-place votes.

It's the first time since 2000 the Huskies have been ranked in the top spot. It's the first time since the 2003 beginning of the ESPN.com poll the Huskies have received the No. 1 ranking.

Washington is 14-0 and off to the best start in the program's history. It next plays Friday at noon against Portland State at home.

MONDAY, FEB. 23, 11:07 A.M.
WSU start time is set

The final home game of the season, and of the careers of Jon Brockman, Justin Dentmon and Artem Wallace, will tip-off at 2:30 p.m. against Washington State. The game will be on FSN in HD.

THURSDAY, FEB. 19, 5:11 P.M.
Nussmeier moved from QB coach to OC; Cozzetto added as O-line coach

Washington announced Doug Nussmeier, who was hired to be the quarterbacks coach, will be moved to the vacated offensive coordinator position.

Dan Cozzetto was added to the staff as offensive line coach. You can read the school's full release here.

If you recognize Cozzetto's name, it's because he was the Huskies' offensive line coach in 2003. These two hirings once again complete the new Washington football staff.

THURSDAY, FEB. 19, 1:45 A.M.
Contain Shipp and continue to attack
the UCLA defense

Those are two of the keys to Thursday night's game. We identify an X factor, make a pick, and have coach Romar talking about UCLA's reputation as a defense-first team. You can check out our preview here.

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 18, 7:48 P.M.
Seattle Sports Online audio roundtable talks about Huskies' title hopes

Take a listen to Seattle Sports Online's Todd Dybas, Kevin Pelton from Basketball Prospectus and Seth Kolloen from Sports Northwest magazine talk about the Huskies, Ichiro in the clubhouse and how Kevin Durant continues to inflict pain on Seattle basketball fans. You can find the audio here.

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 18, 1:00 A.M.
Brockman, Romar point to Pac-10 regular-season title as main goal

With Washington a full game ahead of Arizona State in the Pac-10 standings, both Jon Brockman and Lorenzo Romar said the conference title is the main goal.

Romar feels winning the regular-season title is much more difficult than winning a conference tournament, simply because a team can get hot over the course of four days. Romar referenced his days as the head man in St. Louis, saying it was able to win the Conference USA title by beating Cincinnati in the second round of the conference tournament a week after the Bearcats beat the Billikens by 43 points.

For Brockman, he said winning the conference title is "at the top" of his current goals.

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 18, 12:55 A.M.
Picture of the Promised Land hanging
in the Huskies locker room

While all the chatter surrounding the importance of Thursday's duel with UCLA is going on, Quincy Pondexter relayed a couple of interesting points.

One, Pondexter said the hoopla being associated with the game is, "More of a media frenzy. Beating UCLA isn't winning the (conference) championship." For context, the junior said this in a measured tone, not an attacking one, his point being win or lose, Thursday's game does not seal the deal for the Huskies. Though a win would go a long way toward capturing the regular-season title.

Two, Pondexter said the Huskies' aspirations go much higher than just getting back to the tournament or winning the Pac-10, though those are the initial focuses. He said a picture of Ford Field, the home of this year's Final Four, is hanging in the Washington locker room.

TUESDAY, FEB. 17, 3:21 A.M.
Early signs: NCAA takes swift action to protect seventh- and eighth-graders

The NCAA recently passed legislation in an attempt to protect seventh- and eighth-graders during the recruiting process. College coaches were getting around the rules in place, and now the recruiting of 11- and 12-year-olds is under the same restrictions as the recruiting of high school players. This may extend to football soon, but is only in place for basketball right now.

When will it end? Who knows? There's only evidence that rabid fans want more recruiting information, whether it is conjecture or fact-based, which means the process will be more challenging than ever in coming years.

You can check out our story here. Come back with your thoughts and comment below.

MONDAY, FEB. 16, 2:41 A.M.
Looking at what stands between the Huskies and the Pac-10 title in hoops

Following the weekend bludgeoning of the Oregon schools, what would have produced a preseason snicker is closer to reality.

Washington Pac-10 champs? Could happen.

The Huskies have separated from the Pac-10 jumble. UCLA, Arizona State, and Cal all stand 8-4 in conference play. Arizona, thanks to a recent seven-game winning streak, has vaulted to 8-5.

The 1 1/2-game lead gives Washington a margin, though slight, for error. As in a road split this week can be reconciled at home, where Washington is 14-1 this season. A look at the remaining six games:

At UCLA (19-6, 8-4), Feb. 19, 8 p.m.
How they stand: Coming into last week, UCLA appeared to have shifted gears. After losing at Washington Jan. 24, the Bruins won their next four, culminating with a nationally televised tail-whipping of Notre Dame. They're baaaaack, everyone shouted. Then a block/charge call Thursday night sent them spiraling. When Arizona State's Jeff Pendergraph slid in and clipped UCLA point guard Darren Collison , the game changed, as did UCLA's tournament seed. That loss coupled with Saturday's drubbing by Arizona left CBS commentator Seth Davis railing about UCLA's No. 6 ranking, something bloggers have also questioned. The Bruins will close with the Oregon schools, though, as the Cougars found out Saturday, that's not treat if you're not paying attention. UCLA coach Ben Howland told the Los Angeles Times Thursday's game against Washington will be "the biggest game of the year for us."

At USC (15-9, 6-6), Feb. 21, 4 p.m.
How they stand: The Trojans lost Sunday night at Arizona State to fall back to .500. USC is a team Washington coach Lorenzo Romar continually refers to, citing its talent. But the Trojans can't translate that into consistency. The Trojans boast 6-foot-5 Daniel Hackett at point guard; one of the conference's best players, Taj Gibson, in the post, and a newcomer, DeMar DeRozan, who was supposed to compete for Freshman of the Year honors. But that group is not in sync. The Trojans have lost three consecutive games, enough to make analysts rethink their comments about USC as the sixth Pac-10 team getting into the tournament. Still having to host Washington and go to Cal and Stanford, USC is in big trouble and well on its way to being the most disappointing team in the conference this year.

Versus Arizona State (20-5, 9-4), Feb. 26, 8 p.m.
How they stand: The Sun Devils moved into second place in the conference after beating USC Sunday night. James Harden still appears in line to be conference player of the year, an assumption first made in the preseason. Jeff Pendergraph has evolved into a force, averaging 13.8 points and 7.9 rebounds. Pendergraph dominated Jon Brockman and UW the first meeting, scoring 21 and grabbing 15 rebounds. But Washington was able to slow Harden, sicking Darnell Gant on him. The Huskies guards embarrassed Arizona State's backcourt, Isaiah Thomas and Justin Dentmon combining for 55 points. The Sun Devils have a showdown with Arizona Sunday, Feb. 22. It will be the first game after full week off for both teams.

Versus Arizona (18-5, 8-8), Feb. 28, TBA
How they stand: The biggest surprise in the conference. Despite appearing to have some parts, the Lute Olson Saga was assumed to derail any chances for the Wildcats. Now, they're in the hunt for the conference title and into the NCAA Tournament. Arizona rides its triumvirate of Nic Wise, Chase Budinger and Jordan Hill. Budinger went through a four-game stretch of poor shooting to close December and open January. Since, he is back playing at the level that made him a projected lottery pick last year. Hill is the most improved player in the conference, and a lottery pick himself.

Versus Seattle University (16-6), March 3, 8 p.m.
How they stand: The Redhawks finished 10-0 at home and have won eight consecutive games. This would be a seed-altering loss should the Huskies stumble. The Redhawks are enjoying an admirable first season back at the Div. I level, but they are not (understandably) playing Pac-10 competition each night. Seattle U. gave Oregon State problems early in the season, falling at Corvallis by nine. Regardless, this would be a bad, bad loss for the Huskies at home. At least the game is being played. The Redhawks couldn't find their way onto UW's schedule until the Lehigh game was snowed out. They should play every year.

Versus Washington State (5-8, 13-12), March 7, TBA
How they stand: The Cougars are struggling, heading toward the bottom third of the conference. Freshman Klay Thompson has been superb, but Taylor Rochestie and Daven Harmeling have been exposed. Neither Rochestie or Harmeling have the ability to take care of things themselves, proving their prior success a byproduct of the Cougars system and surrounding talent the past couple years. It's conceivable the Cougars could end the season on a six-game losing streak. Washington State lost to Oregon State Saturday, goes to USC then UCLA this week, hosts the Arizona schools the following week, then closes at Washington. Ouch.

MONDAY, FEB. 16, 2:22 A.M.
Lawrie gains career strikeout record; Huskies off to hot start

Welcome back Danielle Lawrie.

After not pitching the 2008 season for Washington, taking a year off to work with the Canadian nation team, Lawrie is back in the circle and already 6-0.

The junior picked up her sixth win when Washington defeated Long Beach State 14-1 Sunday. The win vaulted Washington to 9-0, the second-best start in school history. The 2002 team started 10-0.

Lawrie is more effective than ever. The redshirt junior broke Washington's career strikeout record Saturday, passing the most decorated pitcher in Washington softball history, Jennifer Spediacci. It took Spediacci four seasons to strikeout 894. Lawrie passed the mark in just more than two seasons.

Lawrie now has 60 career wins, as she heads toward Spediacci's all-time mark of 100. Lawrie also has a shot at the single-season win record, set in 2001 when Tia Bollinger had 36.

Washington has won big to start the season, beating Long Beach State 14-1 Sunday, Utah State 13-1 on Friday. The Huskies have also won tight games, taking the opener 2-1 over 12th-ranked Tennessee and downing Loyola Marymount 4-2 the next day.

Friday, a challenge awaits. Washington will face second-ranked Florida (8-1) in the back end of a doubleheader in Palm Springs, Calif.

Much like in volleyball, the Pac-10 is all over the softball rankings. In last week's ESPN.com/USA Softball poll, six of the top 10 teams were from the conference. UCLA was fourth; Arizona State sixth; Washington seventh; Stanford eighth; California ninth; Arizona 10th. Oregon State and Oregon each received votes in the poll, making the Pac-10 the country's clear power conference in in softball.

MONDAY, FEB. 16, 2:17 A.M.
Boase out of the gate fast, records world's fastest 400 of 2009

A blistering run in the desert changed Jordan Boase's mindset.

The Washington junior finished second in the 400 meters at last year's Pac-10 Championships in Tempe, Ariz. Boase blew past the finish line with a new personal best, 44.97. Outwardly, he was thrilled. Inside, he was surprised by the digital digits.

"It was definitely a shock," Boase said. "When I crossed the line I was really excited and that definitely showed, but inside I was like, 'Wow. I can't believe that just happened.' "

Boase opened his 2009 campaign in the 400 Saturday at the Husky Classic. The Bothell native steamed to an indoor personal best, 46.15 seconds. It was also the fastest indoor 400 in the world thus far in 2009. Boase acknowledges it was a good start to the new season, though, not as low as he hoped for.

"I actually wanted to run something in the 45s but I didn't get out as hard as I should have," Boase said. "It was a typical first race, definitely things could have been better. Anytime you're PRing in your first race of the season you have to be happy with that."

Expectations have changed for Boase. During his junior season, he motored to second place in the Pac-10 Championships, then accelerated all the way to the semifinals of the Olympic trials. Boase said he wasn't sure what level of speed he could push his body to in 2008. Now, he knows.

"I think the biggest thing this year is I've kind of realized where my body is," Boase said. "Last year when I ran 44 seconds, my goal was to run 45.9 and I ran (44.97). I genuinely didn't know I could do that. This year I know what I'm capable of."

Boase will be focusing on the 400 the rest of the year, running the 200 in order to help build speed for his feature event. With meets under way, the training emphasis turns from building a base with distance, to speed work and weight lifting in order to build the sprinter's explosiveness. Boase has 90-minute practices, four days week. Two of those practices are followed by lifting.

Next for Boase is the Mountain Pacific Sports Federation Championships on the jet-fueled Dempsey Indoor track to wrap February. The NCAA Indoor Championships are less than a month away, starting March 13 in College Station, Texas.

You can check out Seattle Sports Online's photos from Saturday's Husky Classic here.

FRIDAY, FEB. 13, 5:50 P.M.
Seattle Sports Online's photo gallery from the Oregon State game

You can see our photos from last night here.

FRIDAY, FEB. 13, 3:22 A.M.
Postgame news and notes following
the Oregon State game

> No one was in more demand following the game than Oregon State coach Craig Robinson. President Obama's brother-in-law went through rounds of media and several well-wishers who just wanted to introduce themselves. Robinson sought out UW usher George Hickman to thank him for his military service. Hickman is a former Tuskegee Airmen.

> Finally able to get on the floor, freshman Scott Suggs clowned around while out there, turning to the Washington bench and expressing an inside joke. Washington coach Lorenzo Romar first yelled at Suggs in an attempt to get his attention, then called the freshman over for a conversation while Oregon State shot free throws.

> The crowd tipped off the Huskies to the result of the UCLA game. "We were looking at it a little bit before the game and looked up at the screen and heard the loud applause," Quincy Pondexter said of the reaction when the result was announced. "It's great to be back in first place and it could be short-lived in this conference."

> The Huskies had two blocks Thursday night. One apiece for guards Venoy Overton and Elston Turner, of course.

> MBA was MIA again. Matthew Bryan-Amaning's struggles continued Thursday. The sophomore played 16 minutes, committed two fouls and two turnovers while missing three of his four foul shots and not grabbing a rebound.

> Spencer Hawes was in the building again, likely wishing he still had some eligibility with this team. Can you imagine Hawes playing his junior season with this group?

THURSDAY, FEB. 12, 8:05 P.M.
Thoughts and notes from the Huskies/Oregon State game

> After having such difficulty getting into the lane in the first half, Washington was able to hammer Oregon State in the paint in the second half. Washington wins, 79-60 and moves back into first place in the Pac-10 thanks to UCLA's loss.

> Long delay here, with the referees assembled around replay monitors. They explain something Robinson, and play resumes.

> Coach Lorenzo Romar is much more animated in the second half. He has been after the officials harder, but also encouraging his team with clenched fists and shouts.

> Darnell Gant is in full denial against Schaftenaar, as we discussed din our preview. Robinson is trying to work the referees for a call on Gant, claiming Gant is holding Schaftenaar. Robinson has also yelled at Schaftenaar to be more aggressive when trying to get free.

> Justin Dentmon leads Washington with 16 points, no other Husky has more than four. Rebounding is even, 16 apiece, after Washington was outrebounded the majority of the first half. Washington crushed Oregon State in rebounding in the first meeting.

> Huskies have 10 turnovers at the half, and are shooting only 36 percent. Oregon State has adjusted how it begins its offense. Beavers coach Craig Robinson has opted to make their primary ball handler one of his larger guards, opposed to Roeland Schaftenaar. So far, it has worked.

> Washington out of sync to the point that it is rather quiet in the BOA. Outside of the students, the rest of the crowd is seemingly sitting and wondering when the Huskies are going to snap out of it.

> Washington has moved an offensive player to the foul line, using that player, in the last few plays Matthew Bryan-Amaning, to set screens. The Huskies continue to struggle to get the ball inside. More penetration like Venoy Overton just had is how the Huskies punished Oregon State in the first meeting.

> Justin Dentmon is grimacing and holding his left hand after the last turnover. Apparently it had no affect on his shot, as he hits a three.

> Washington having trouble getting the ball inside to Brockman. Every shot attempt has been a jumper thus far. Darnell Gant just hit a 16-footer. Oregon State, like most teams, will continue to challenge Gant to make that shot.

> Looks like a night where the Huskies will have to shoot well from the outside. Isaiah Thomas is 1-for-2 from behind the 3-point line early on.

> Oregon State comes out in its 1-3-1 zone defense. The Huskies ended up with a wide open shot to start. Quincy Pondexter provides the game's first bucket.

THURSDAY, FEB. 12, 2:55 A.M.
Why Darnell Gant is so important tonight against Oregon State

In Seattle Sports Online's preview of tonight's Washington/Oregon State game, we explain Gant's role, break down the starting matchups, identify three keys, and give you a chance to listen to coach Romar talk about the development of Oregon State.

You can see our preview here.

 

TUESDAY, FEB. 11, 7:12 P.M.
Huskies hire new receivers coach

Following the departure of Aaron Roderick, the Huskies have filled the gap at wide receivers coach with Jimmie Dougherty it was announced Wednesday.

Dougherty worked the last five seasons on the University of San Diego's coaching staff. Last season, Dougherty was offensive coordinator for the Toreros. San Diego was 9-2 last season.

TUESDAY, FEB. 10, 10:48 P.M.
Can anything go right for the Huskies' football program?

Just a day after another coaching departure, the Huskies dealt with a Husky relieving itself in their end zone.

Washington introduced the school's new mascot, an e-mail forward worthy Alaskan Malamute named "Dubs." The puppy is the 11th Alaskan Malamute to become the Huskies mascot.

At a touch under three months old, Dubs was overwhelmed by the photographers and other media that attended his unveiling (though we all saw him prancing around inside Hec Ed prior). As a result, he promptly urinated in the Huskies end zone. That appeared to be his only violation, no smoke machine in sight.

Dubs replaces "Spirit", who was the school's mascot since 1999. As yet another example of how dismal the 2008 season was, even Spirit ended up broken, injuring a leg when stepping into a hole while chasing a squirrel last fall. You can't make this stuff up.

Dubs will be officially introduced at the Huskies' home opener, Sept. 5 versus LSU.

One person who won't be introduced at the opener is Jim Michalczik. Michalczik left the Washington staff to join the Oakland Raiders staff, where he will serve as offensive-line coach.

Michalczik's departure points out the danger to all the enthusiastic rhetoric from new coach Steve Sarkisian. After labeling his ensemble the best coaching staff in America, he's had two departures. Now he has to find an offensive coordinator who is able to join the staff at this late juncture and doesn't mind Sarkisian calling the plays.

TUESDAY, FEB. 10, 10:37 P.M.
Pondexter working things out during latter half of Pac-10 play

Quincy Pondexter is still partaking in his own midnight madness.

Pondexter, usually accompanied by team manager Trevor Wade, continues grinding out late-night solo workouts despite being at the three-quarters poll of the season.

The junior forward works on his jump shot, angles and conditioning during his after-midnight efforts. Work he says is part of the explanation for a breakout last week on the road, during which he scored 41 points in two games, as well as his strong finish last year.

"It definitely is," Pondexter said. "It really does kick in when people get tired, and their legs start to go and they start to lose track of things they did well earlier in the season. I think I get better."

Pondexter also attributes last week's increased point total to him simply being more aggressive. As coach Lorenzo Romar pointed out, Pondexter is now a more prove-it player than he was in the past. His freshman season in particular, teams would key on him in their scouting reports. Now, and this is another byproduct of Isaiah Thomas' arrival, Pondexter may be third on the list of concerns, trailing Thomas and Jon Brockman.

Regardless the attention level from opposition, Pondexter still has to make them pay for the laissez-faire approach to defending him.

"Quincy's taking full advantage of that," Romar said.

Romar said Pondexter's jumper is starting to fall now, and, to wit, he hit two Sunday. But it's mauling through the middle where Pondexter is doing the majority of his damage.

"When I get the ball in the low block, or in the middle 15 feet area, it seems like everything is going to go in," Pondexter said.

Romar is also quick to point out Pondexter started to excel around the same time last year.

So why still pulling extra work? Pondexter feels obligated because of the time of year, and the failures of the past two.

"Second half of Pac-10 is the most important time," Pondexter said. "It makes or breaks a season. I didn't want this one to be broken."

A look the close to Pondexter's 2008 season seems to prove out his theory of extra work makes him better in the second half of Pac-10 play:

MONDAY, FEB. 9, 6:22 P.M.
UW loses another football assistant

The University of Washington had another defection from its new coaching staff, announcing Monday offensive coordinator and offensive line coach Jim Michalczik has taken a position with the Oakland Raiders.

Michalczik was hired in December and reported to have agreed to a three-year deal with the school, which was not signed. Michalczik is the second assistant to commit to then leave the Huskies new staff. Receivers coach Aaron Roderick chose to return to Utah last month.

This leaves Washington with two openings. By NCAA rule, the staff can have one head coach and nine assistants.

It's a late departure for Michalczik. At the time, his contract was the largest ever given to an assistant at the school. That deal was surpassed by the one given to defensive Nick Holt.

Michalczik came to Washington from Cal, where he was renowned for his ability to produce a strong running game.

 

SUNDAY, FEB. 8, 2:15 P.M.
Join us for a live chat about the Huskies/Stanford game this afternoon

Join Todd Dybas of Seattle Sports Online, and Kevin Pelton of basketballprospectucs.com to chat live during the Huskies game against Stanford today. When you first comment, there will be a slight delay. Then your further comments will become instant. Please keep it clean. Thanks.

SUNDAY, FEB. 8, 1:27 A.M.
GymDawgs roll past Arizona, capture third consecutive win

PHOTO BY DREW McKENZIE / SEATTLESPORTSONLINE.COM

The GymDawgs moved to 6-2 on the season after beating 21st-ranked Arizona in Bank of America Arena Saturday night. Washington won titles in every event. Senior Ashley Houghting won the floor and vault. Sophomore Kristen Linton from Edmonds won uneven bars, and Samantha Wailor won beam.

It was the third consecutive win for Washington. Check out Seattle Sports Online's photo gallery from the event, here.

FRIDAY, FEB. 6, 11:47 P.M.
Women's basketball has losing streak extended to nine games

Washington had no answer for California forward Ashley Walker, getting trounced by the third-ranked Bears Friday night, 70-40.

Walker was 11-for-15 on her way to scoring 24 points.

The disaster is ongoing. Washington shot 26.8 percent. Kristi Kingma was 0-for-7. That's five consecutive losses at home, a school record. That's nine consecutive losses overall, extending the school record.

Sunday No. 7 Stanford comes to Bank of America Arena for a 12:30 p.m. tipoff with the Huskies. Stanford beat Washington 112-35 last time, making history for both schools.

FRIDAY, FEB. 6, 11:47 P.M.
Taylor wins Hawai'i-Hilo Invitational

Junior Nick Taylor won the Hawai'i-Hilo Invitational, shooting a 6-under 210 for the tournament. It was Taylor's second consecutive medalist honor, he won the CordeValle Collegiate in the fall. Washington finished second as a team at the Invitational, trailing USC.

FRIDAY, FEB. 6, 11:40 P.M.
Softball starts with two wins; Lawrie named preseason All-American

Danielle Lawrie struck out nine in the Huskies 2-1 win over No. 12 Tennessee Friday in St. George, Utah, to open the season. Washington won its nightcap 7-3 against BYU behind two-time All-American Ashley Charters, who hit a grand slam.

Freshman Felicia Harris made her first appearance for the Huskies, starting the game against BYU. Harris gave up zero runs in the 4 1/3 innings she pitched.

Junior Alyson McWherter, from Lakewood, took away two home runs in center field, including a would-be grand slam that would have tied the game for BYU.

Lawrie was named to ESPN's preseason All-American team, one of three pitchers on the team.

FRIDAY, FEB. 6, 12:52 A.M.
Huskies guards doing it themselves? That's just California dreamin'

Lorenzo Romar, or LoRo as the kids call him, watched his team revert to the selfish group that trekked to Portland than to Kansas City, Mo., and stunk both places up.

Often the box score lies, but not tonight. Darnell Gant took and made more shots than Jon Brockman. Gant had more assists than point guard Isaiah Thomas, which isn't difficult to do when your point guard has zero.

Thomas once again had trouble with Cal's Jorge Gutierrez. Gutierrez hounded Thomas in the second half and into overtime of the first meeting between these schools. Afterward, Cal coach Mike Montgomery said Gutierrez is the Bears' best perimeter defender, and he proved it again Thursday night.

Thomas was sealed off repeatedly at the end of the game. Justin Dentmon was sealed off, and just off, the entire game. Despite the recent goodwill his stellar play has deservingly earned him among fans, Dentmon looked like the player that drove many to Blagojevich levels of crazy.

But the prevailing point and prevailing failure last night was the Huskies not moving the ball. Numerous moments of one-on-one, confounding decisions throughout.

As for Matthew Bryan-Amaning, the up-and-under is cute and all, but he needs to shoot off his first move more often. The majority of the time Bryan-Amaning is simply too long and smooth for his opposition, which makes turning and shooting a hook in the lane more effective than his wheeling and dealing. It's great Bryan-Amaning has those moves, but they are often unnecessary since he starts with a physical advantage in the post. In 14 minutes, he was 0-for-2, committed four fouls and had zero rebounds. After scoring 12 points against USC two weeks ago, Bryan-Amaning has scored 11 points in the last four games combined.

Romar will go back to the bread-and-butter thunder speech he used after a similar selfish display by his team against Kansas. He'll also likely remind them defense is not optional.

THURSDAY, FEB. 5, 11:59 P.M.
Wilcox continues to excel in Utah

C.J. Wilcox will be joining the Huskies next season on the basketball court, yet another long, versatile guard. The 6-foot-5 Wilcox is known as a shooter, but, according to his coach at Pleasant Grove (Utah), he's become more versatile this season. Here's a video from Wilcox being named "Prep of the Week" by Utah regional TV station KUTV.

THURSDAY, FEB. 5, 7:15 P.M.
Seattle Sports Online's real-time blog for the Huskies/Cal game

Join Todd Dybas of Seattle Sports Online to chat live about the Huskies/Cal game that tips tonight at 7:30 on FSN. Bring your friends.

TUESDAY, FEB. 3, 10:26 P.M.
Dentmon learns to carry Washington's weight on his back

PHOTO BY DREW SELLERS / SEATTLESPORTSONLINE.COM

Put the team on his back? Sure.

But, put a bar on Justin Dentmon's back? No, thanks.

At least that was Dentmon's thought process as his career at Washington has evolved.

After starting his freshman year, Dentmon found himself in a purple seat during tip-offs his sophomore and junior years.

Now, in his senior year, Dentmon is edging into talk for conference player of the year. The guard out of Carbondale, Ill., just dropped 30 points on one of the conference's best teams, is shooting 45 percent from behind the 3-point line, and has become the team's closer.

During the last four years, the lessons have been plentiful.

"I learned that if somebody doesn't want to take over or doesn't want the ball at the end, then step up and do it," Dentmon said. "Lead by example. If I lead, hopefully others will follow."

Those are phrases that would not have been associated with Dentmon coming into the season. He was guilty of poor shot selection, looking lost at times. He's still lost, but now it's a benefit.

"I was able to find the answer I was looking for," Dentmon said of his season. "I'm able to get lost in the game now, which has been hard for me."

Dentmon asserts his summer dreaming and weight lifting have made a large difference this year. The senior said he was playing against non-existent crowds in the most dire of pretend circumstances, working the court by himself during the off months. It's the same thing he did as a kid.

One of the differences this time is new strength coach Matt Ludwig was encouraging, with a lot of, er, encouragement, Dentmon to do certain things in the weight room. Namely squats.

Dentmon took to squats like Tom Daschle paid taxes. He'd rather not. Dentmon preferred single-leg lunges, squats hurting his back. Ludwig showed him a technique that would circumvent his concern and pain. Dentmon listened, though reluctantly at first.

"It was just something he had built up in his own mind, 'Well, I don't like doing it,' " Ludwig said. "Well, a lot of guys don't like doing it. Guys don't like eating right, guys don't like sitting out on the court for 3 1/2 hours to practice. But if it's something that will help them, they're going to have to do it to get better."

That and other core and strength exercises have helped Dentmon. Remember the in-air square up along the baseline against Arizona State? The one where Dentmon was able to get his hips around, leveling himself with the basket? That likely doesn't happen a year ago.

The newfound strength correlates with his shooting success from behind the 3-point line. Dentmon has evolved from looking like a "broad jumper" according to coach Lorenzo Romar, to jumping straight up. The reason? Those dreaded squats.

"I got into squatting. I never thought I'd be able to," Dentmon said. "Workouts with the strength coach, working on balance and stuff. All of the workouts I've never done before, with him, really paid off. My balance on defense and offense, it started to change some things on my shot."

Listen to Dentmon talk about thinking of his senior year over the summer, and how he envisioned things:

 

TUESDAY, FEB. 3, 2:21 P.M.
Brockman, Dentmon: revenge not a factor against Cal this week

The last time Washington and California met, it took three overtimes and numerous bizarro plays to settle it. Thursday, the teams meet again.

"I think it definitely hangs with the fans probably a little more as far as the 'getting back' factor," Brockman said of the revenge angle. "Players think of it ... it's another game. I wouldn't say we hold it in such a revenge type of thing. There are instances in sports where that does happen, but there's no real bad blood between us and Cal."

Dentmon agreed, saying he is more concerned with simply winning, no matter the opponent.

Cal (16-6, 5-4) has cooled considerably since its early January visit to Bank of America Arena. The Bears were on top of the Pac-10 at that point, where the Huskies are now, and were labeled a surprise. Since that game, Washington is 6-1. Cal, on the other hand, has gone 1-4.

The main weapon for Cal was the 3-pointer, the Bears shooting more than 50 percent as a team. As has been proven time and again, teams so reliant on that approach come and go, and, right now, Cal is going.

It was just 2-for-16 Saturday in a loss to USC. Not being a driving team, Cal also rarely gets to the foul line. With those two holes, the Bears have proven to be easy targets for Pac-10 foes.

MONDAY, FEB. 2, 11:06 A.M.
Huskies sixth in latest bracketology

ESPN's bracketologist Joe Lunardi has moved Washington up to a six seed, pitting the Huskies against Utah State.

Lunardi still thinks UCLA is the best team in the Pac-10, making the Bruins a five seed. But his addition of USC to Pac-10 teams in the tournament makes it appear his respect for the conference is on the rise. Lunardi now has five Pac-10 schools in the tournament: UW, UCLA, Arizona State, Cal and USC.

A pertinent question for the Huskies is how high they can go. Lunardi has five and four seeds playing in the first two round in Portland, including Gonzaga, which he labels a five seed. If the Huskies can win the Pac-10, they'll have a chance to stick out West for the first two rounds, possibly getting dates in the Rose Garden. That, obviously, would change the equation.

SATURDAY, JAN. 31, 6:09 P.M.
Homers on ASU broadcast

Wow. Daron Sutton and Tom Kuyper, that was some scary stuff.

Even from a neutral perspective, watching the Washington/Arizona State broadcast Saturday was cringe-inducing. Not because the game became close, but because those two announcers were so clearly pro-Arizona State.

Sutton, the play-by-play side of the tandem, was hired last fall by Fox Sports Arizona to call Arizona State basketball games. The large part of Sutton's background lays in SEC coverage and baseball. According to Wikipedia, he is the son of former Major Leager Don Sutton.

At least Sutton gave Washington some credit during the game, talking about Justin Dentmon's sizzling shooting and when Washington was up 17 points, actually giving the Huskies credit.

As for his partner, Tom Kuyper, 20 lashes are in order. In theory, Kuyper was there to provide analysis. He had such insights as, "Here they come!" He talked about how wise Arizona State coach Herb Sendek was, particularly when Sendek used a player fouling out to gather his team for an equivalent of a free timeout.

"Herb knows what he's doing here," Kuyper said. "He gets time when a guy fouls out."

Not only does every coach in America use that trick, Washington's head man, Lorenzo Romar, had done the same just moments before Kuyper's kudos for Sendek. Kuyper was too busy waving his Arizona State foam finger to notice.

Kuyper repeatedly mispronounced Dentmon's last name, while referring to Arizona State players over and over by their first.

Kuyper sounded pleased when James Harden got going in the second half, as well as defiant when the Sun Devils were called for fouls. He even backed Sendek when the coach received a technical foul as Arizona State was trying to come back. Kuyper went to the, "coaches do this on purpose to motivate their team" well, a silly statement considering the status of the game.

But the biggest transgression? When Arizona State's Ty Abbott hit a deep jumper that was originally called a 3-pointer, the referees decided to review. Kuyper lamented, "I think they're going to reverse it, unfortunately." No caveat, just a clear statement from Kuyper that he was disappointed that something may go against Arizona State. You know, the way a fan gets upset when a call goes against their team.

Turns out, the referees called it a three, and did not change the call. "Shows what I know!" Kuyper announced.

You can say that again.

None of this was a coincidence or should surprise. Kuyper played basketball for four years at Arizona State. But you would think the Fox folks would advise him to be a little more neutral for a regional game.

FRIDAY, JAN. 30, 11:54 P.M.
Reaction to secondary violations

It's been reported new coach Steve Sarkisian has committed two secondary recruiting violations in the past two weeks. Reaction among UW supporters has been borderline ludicrous. For them to think there is a media conspiracy, that this is a non-story or that it's anything other than the simple fact Sarkisian committed violations and that needs to be reported, is ridiculous.

Washington fans continue to point the finger at USC, claiming the Trojans have gotten away with numerous recruiting violations, how else to explain their success? It's not surprising Huskies fans are only concerned with USC. No Washington supporters are screaming about Arizona, Oregon or any other Pac-10 team. It's not coincidence.

But for Washington fans to be upset with the media for reporting news substantiated by the university itself is amazing. It's this type of elitist, blinded view that draws ridicule outside of Washington's purple veil.

Get real folks. It's simple. Steve Sarkisian committed two secondary violations. Big deal? No, especially with the arcane rules of the NCAA. Newsworthy? Uh, yeah.

Objective media outlets are obligated to report news, not root for the home team.

FRIDAY, JAN. 30, 11:54 P.M.
Thomas shows up in SI

Washington freshman Isaiah Thomas received a brief mention in this week's Sports Illustrated, Seth Davis calling Thomas the best freshman in the Pac-10 in a brief note in the college basketball section toward the back of the magazine.

THURSDAY, JAN. 29, 11:26 P.M.
UW women hit historical low, again

Thursday night's 65-51 loss to Arizona dropped Washington to 5-13 overall and 1-7 in the Pac-10. It also gave Arizona its first conference win, extending Washington's losing streak to a record seven. The Huskies lost six in a row in the 1999-2000 season.

During preseason, coach Tia Jackson talked about being a more aggressive, more athletic team. Neither of those things have been evident during a season of losing with a fractured roster.

Despite having a handful of new players, ones supposedly selected to bring the more athletic style, Jackson's team has been a disaster on defense and offense. The Huskies lost by 77 points to Stanford Jan. 8, showing just how far they are from the elite programs in the country.

Washington's Sami Whitcomb is the only player averaging double figures in points, at 11.6. Mill Creek product Kristi Kingma continues to struggle in her freshman season, shooting a meager 33 percent.

With the school busy trying to reconstruct the breadwinner, football, the women's basketball team may get a pass this dismal season. But questions about Jackson's job security have already come up among local media magnates.

It appears the losing is not about to end. Washington plays Arizona State Saturday (13-6, 5-2), then next week hosts the two best teams in the conference, Cal (16-2, 7-0) and Stanford (15-4, 6-1). That scheduling could easily run the Huskies' losing streak into double figures.

THURSDAY, JAN. 29, 2009, 3:01 P.M.
Arizona/Washington breakdown

Here's Seattle Sports Online's preview of tonight's Washington/Arizona game.

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 28, 2009, 7:49 P.M.
Free throw fix obvious

There have been stories about the "ladder", an end-of-practice-drill assistant coach Jim Shaw brought with him from Oklahoma. The Huskies stand in a group and shoot free throws. In different situations, they have to reach a certain mark in order for the drill to end. When the drill ends, practice ends.

At times, Washington has needed a good 45 minutes to complete the drill. Recently, its been better. Several players told us they love that drill. Why? It means practice is over.

But the drill may not be the main reason for the Huskies sudden turn-around from the free-throw line during Pac-10 play. As Kevin Pelton of Basketballprospectus.com pointed out, it may be much simpler.

The main reason for the recent success? Better shooters on the line more often. In particular, a reduction in attempts for Jon Brockman during Pac-10 play, while Justin Dentmon's attempts have seen a large increase.

Add Quincy Pondexter turning into Reggie Miller from the line, and Matthew Bryan-Amaning shooting 80 percent, you have the explanation for the improvement.

Brockman shot 74 free throws in 12 non-conference games. He's taken 40 in six conference games. Dentmon shot 34 free throws during non-conference play. He's shot 49 during Pac-10 play. The team's best free-throw shooter is shooting three times more often in conference play.

Isaiah Thomas has improved significantly, as has Pondexter and Bryan-Amaning. As a result, you have a team that shoots 65.5 percent now. The Huskies shot 62.8 percent in non-conference play, 74.4 percent in Pac-10 play.

TUESDAY, JAN. 27, 2009, 8:30 P.M.
Arizona still scares Romar

Not surprisingly, Washington coach Lorenzo Romar cited point guard Nic Wise, forward Chase Budinger and center Jordan Hill as the three main concerns for the Huskies Thursday against Arizona.

Arizona has lost three of its last four, the lone win coming against Houston in overtime Saturday during the famous Budinger face-stomping incident:

Of Wise, Budinger and Hill, the big man has been the most consistent this season. Hill bull-dozed Houston Saturday, scoring 30 points and grabbing 18 rebounds.

Hill has a season-high of 22 rebounds. Last year, he averaged 13 points and 12 rebounds against Washington.

"Jordan Hill is one of the best big men in America," Romar said. "He could be a lottery pick."

Jon Brockman will once again have to deal with Hill.

"He's one of many really good bigs in this league," Brockman said. "He's so long and athletic. (From) 15-17 feet and in, he can score. He's a dangerous player wherever he's at."

Despite its potent triumvirate of Hill, Wise and Budinger, Arizona stumbles into the game at 2-5 in Pac-10 play.

"They've had several games that could have gone either way," Romar said. "You break out the film of them against Gonzaga and Kansas and it's something they couldn't have faked. At any time they can play like that. At any time they're capable of beating anyone if they play like that."

TUESDAY, JAN. 27, 2009, 3:05 P.M.
Bryan-Amaning ready to play

Despite rumors around the Internet, Washington coach Lorenzo Romar said Tuesday that Huskies forward Matthew Bryan-Amaning will play Thursday against Arizona.

Romar said Bryan-Amaning was originally hurt in last Thursday's game against USC. Romar said the sophomore hurt his foot and that he thinks he'll be fine.

"He practiced yesterday," Romar said.

TUESDAY, JAN. 27, 2009 8:34 A.M.
Welcome to the new blog

We're going to cover all sorts of topics in this space, the majority of which will be dedicated to men's basketball and football.

But there is a lot of other sports news associated with the University of Washington, and we'll keep on top of that here as well.

We're always looking forward to suggestions or thoughts about what you want to see, so feel free to e-mail the site's editor, Todd Dybas, at tdybas@seattlesportsonline.com with your thoughts about the content for this blog or for the site.

One thing we want to make clear from the start: Discussion and disagreement are encouraged. Turning the comments in this space into off-topic attacks will not be tolerated.

We strongly encourage all commenters to use their real names when commenting.

Thanks for reading.

Todd Dybas
Editor
Seattle Sports Online

SEATTLESPORTSONLINE.COM