Chris Warren and his 32 points were key to a Rebels comeback.
—UPSET—UAB 64, No. 25 Cincinnati 47. The Blazers are 9-1 and it’s time we start respecting them. Putting up a post later with the surprises from this season, and they’ll be on the list. UAB had 12 days to prepare for a manic Cincinnati team that saw its self-proclaimed star, Lance Stephenson, roll an ankle in the early part of the game. Stephenson eventually fouled out and was a non-factor. Most overrated freshman? Starting to look that way. And the Bearcats are looking like they lack the kind consistent outside shooting that will be needed for viable, long-term success.
No. 18 Ohio State 78, Presbyterian 48. The Buckeyes are learning how to play without Evan Turner and these kinds of games are badly needed. David Lighty stepped up big, scored 20.
No. 19 New Mexico 96, Northern Arizona 57. Loving the Lobos, who are now 11-0 after starting this game 19-2. Kind of like this team’s chances to be one of the last of the 11 unbeatens standing.
No. 20 Mississippi 91, UTEP 81 (OT). Derrick Caracter just brings losses, apparently, even though the former Louisville flunkie had 15 points and 15 rebounds. UTEP has dropped two straight games since he became eligible. Ole Miss went 13 for 15 from the line, and Andy Kennedy praised his club’s ability to not panic. I think this was a very big night for Ole Miss.
No. 22 Georgia Tech 65, Arkansas Pine-Bluff 53. The Golden Lions (epic nickname) haven’t won a game. Should Tech fans be unsettled by a 12-point win at home?
Notable:
Ohio 75, Illinois State 67. ISU could have moved to 8-1 with a win here. Ohio gets a good win at home. Could boost NIT prospects down the road.
South Carolina 76, Richmond 58. Not good for the Spiders, who weren’t able to beat USC despite the ‘Cocks not having Dominique Archie and Mike Holmes, both valued starters. Richmond has to regroup and try to stir up an upset against Florida in two days.
South Florida 69, Central Florida 65. Bulls keep winning despite allegations and distractions.
Oklahoma State 71, Stanford 70. Pac-10 has still only won two games in the Hardwood Series. The Pokes improve to 9-1 and I’m excited to see them take on Rhode Island Jan. 2 at Mohegan Sun.
