Checking in from BankUnited Center where the Canes are set to take on Carolina tonight at 9 p.m. The student section has come out in force and have been sitting for more than two hourse before tip-off. My take: It's about dang time.
I'll give you my thoughts as usual as the game progresses.
Just a couple of notes...
- I spoke to someone at UM this afternoon who tells me they expect the four Northwestern kids -- defensive tackle Marcus Forston, receiver Aldarius Johnson, quarterback Jacory Harris and linebacker Sean Spence -- to begin class tomorrow. That being said Harris' father Rodney Harris told me yet again this afternoon he and his family had yet to hear from UM. I guess we'll find out for sure tomorrow. The person I spoke to at UM also told me not to expect Jordan Futch to enroll early anymore and that Futch will likely sign up for summer classes in May.
- I also spoke to Pahokee coach Blaze Thompson this afternoon about defensive tackle Micanor Regis, who is definitely headed to UM and receiver Martavious Odoms who will visit The U this weekend. Thompson calls Regis (6-4, 300) a complete and total beast and says Miami is getting about as an athletic big man as there is. He said Regis started both ways for Pahokee and took off between 10-15 plays the whole year. Maybe we can call him the anti-Antonio Dixon.
- As for Odoms, Thompson told me Odoms has UM at the top of his list and simply wants to go to a program where he can be on the field and part of a spread-type offense. He said UM coaches have told him they are contemplating running more spread sets next season. Odoms also has South Florida and West Virginia high on his list.
- FYI, The Herald is launching a ton of recruiting coverage tomorrow for the two weeks leading up to National Signing Day. I've compiled the national, state, South Florida, Dade and Broward rankings for players and it will all be posted online along with lots of audio interviews. Aside from my interview with Blaze Thompson, I also spoke with Ohio State-bound linebacker Etienne Sabino this afternoon. Anyway, look for a ton of recruiting coverage over the next two weeks.
FIRST HALF...
- I've been told Udonis Haslem, Dwayne Wade and Dorrell Wright are in the house. Haven't seen them yet. But they are supposed to be here. It's definitely a loud gym tonight, more so than I've ever experienced in covering this team for two years.
- 15:05 left, UNC 13, UM 10: Well, for those of you worried about the Canes having a hangover from Saturday's loss, they sure haven't played like it. The problem is for all the good things UM has done early, UNC still has the lead. Ray Hciks has four points to lead UM early. Ty Lawson's three-pointer gave UNC its first lead at 7-6.
- 13:44 left, UNC 15, UM 10: Just spotted Edgerrin James waiting on the sideline. Canes are turning the ball over too much here.
- 11:25 left, UNC 18, UM 13: I'd like to welcome Brian Asbury back to the team. His three-pointer with 11:45 left ended a 7-0 UNC run. Turnovers are killing UM early. Anthony King has made two bad passes that have eld to turnovers already including an inexcusable one over the head of James Dews.
- 6:14 left, UNC 29, UM 27: Miami pieced together a 10-run and took a 20-18 on a Ray Hicks lay-in with 8:35 left. An Asbury three-pointer extended UM's lead to 23-20. But UNC has climbed back ahead behind Ty Lawson, who left tread marks on Edwin Rios' back on a three-pointer and layup. Miami's big men -- Dwayne Collins and Anthony King -- both have two fouls now. Jimmy Graham limped off the court with 8:56 left after appearing to tweak his ankle.
- 3:36 left, UNC 36, UM 32: There are only so many opportunties you can give UNC before they shoot you down. The Heels just had a series where they grabbed four offensive rebounds. Eventually, Lawson went to the line and hit two free throws. Miami is hanging tough. But they aren't going to win unless they can secure boards and take care of the basketball.
- :38.1 left, UNC 44, UM 40: Whoever kidnapped the old Ray Hicks and replaced him with this new one deserves a reward. Hicks has 14 points and is pacing UM, which is doing just enough to hang with UNC.
- Halftime, UNC 47, UM 40: Well, if UM was hoping to win this with defense -- they aren't. The Hurricanes
SECOND HALF...
- 14:19 left, UNC 59, UM 50: Miami simply can't keep playing at this rate. They can't run with Carolina all night. The defense has to start digging down and making stops or Carolina is simply going to run Miami off the court. Eventually, Hicks, Asbury and Hurdle are going to cool down.
- 13:01 left, UNC 64, UM 52: The more I keep watching Hansborough the more I keep picturing the character from MadTV... "I don't wanna."
- 11:36 left, UNC 66, UM 54: The Tar Heels have just so many weapons. Lawson eats you up with his speed. Hansborough is such a tough inside scorer. The Canes have played valiantly, but five points from Jack McClinton isn't going to keep Miami in this game.
- 7:44 left, UNC 73, UM 62: The Hurricanes have fought hard all game. But it feels like everytime they are on the verge of starting a run, they make a mistake, a turnover to shoot themselves in the foot.
Manny, psyche of the team last couple of days? Psyche of the team before the game? Your thought on their chances tonight?
Posted by: Robnyce | January 23, 2008 at 08:33 PM
Q: Manny, psyche of the team last couple of days? Psyche of the team before the game? Your thought on their chances tonight? Posted by: Robnyce | January 23, 2008 at 08:33 PM
A: They're still recovering I think. Anthony King still looked like he was down yesterday. Not that he likes talking to the media. But he still sounded and looked wounded. We'll find out hwo that affects the team early in this one. Carolina is obviously more talented than UM and should win. This one just doesn't have the ingredients for a UM upset. But then again... who knows. Miami is due for a big home win aren't they? It's Haith's fourth year. Isn't this the time these things are supposed to start happening?
Posted by: Manny | January 23, 2008 at 08:37 PM
Manny, dont you think I should be in the Canespace Hall of Fame or at least a lifetime member?
Posted by: pb(CSHOF-09) | January 23, 2008 at 08:39 PM
hey manny navarro, how'd your blog do in december?
Posted by: green | January 23, 2008 at 08:40 PM
You are definitely a candidate PB
Posted by: Manny Navarro | January 23, 2008 at 08:40 PM
Still no answers Green. My blog today was the third-most read sports story.
Posted by: Manny Navarro | January 23, 2008 at 08:45 PM
Who is the better prospect Jacory Harris or Robert Marve?
Posted by: Andre | January 23, 2008 at 08:48 PM
manny navarro: jan 23. you fed me that line weeks ago ...
INCREDULITY
Posted by: green | January 23, 2008 at 08:49 PM
Hey Manny, FTP here, any TJ Bryant sightings? And whats the crowd size like? Thnxs BC
Posted by: BiltmoreCANE | January 23, 2008 at 08:50 PM
Nick Perry, Cory Liguet, Alonzo Lawrence, and TJ Bryant are all quality players that rumors continue to swirl around. Is there a legitment chance at landing any of these players or is Miami going to focus on Ben Jones and Brandon Harris?
Posted by: Cane Fan | January 23, 2008 at 08:55 PM
It's true Green. The Herald has not sent out any blog reports.
Posted by: Manny Navarro | January 23, 2008 at 08:56 PM
Q: Who is the better prospect Jacory Harris or Robert Marve? Posted by: Andre | January 23, 2008 at 08:48 PM
A: Jacory has the bigger body. And if he adds weight he's likely the better NFL prospect. But both are very, very good.
Posted by: Manny Navarro | January 23, 2008 at 08:57 PM
Q: Hey Manny, FTP here, any TJ Bryant sightings? And whats the crowd size like? Thnxs BC Posted by: BiltmoreCANE | January 23, 2008 at 08:50 PM
A: I was told he was going to be here tonight. But the place is packed and its hard to tell. I'll keep an eye out.
Posted by: Manny Navarro | January 23, 2008 at 08:59 PM
Manny are you and PB really the same person?
peace
Posted by: solarcane | January 23, 2008 at 09:00 PM
Manny,
U think Graham can compete with Hansburough? He is physical enough...
Posted by: ObviousCane | January 23, 2008 at 09:02 PM
Nope.
Posted by: Manny Navarro | January 23, 2008 at 09:02 PM
Manny..what's up buddy? You ROCKED the 'Space last night. Doing O/T and all. Thanks a million!
Tell me what's good and positive about the Canes!
Posted by: 86Cane | January 23, 2008 at 09:06 PM
damn....shot my hopes down quick...
Posted by: ObviousCane | January 23, 2008 at 09:06 PM
I hope the canes put up a good fight, it seems when the spot lights on them the crack a little. These big games is when its important to have a good guards, hopefully someone will step up. GO Canes!!!!
Posted by: sass80 | January 23, 2008 at 09:06 PM
Q: Manny U think Graham can compete with Hansburough? He is physical enough... Posted by: ObviousCane | January 23, 2008 at 09:02 PM
A: I think he's the only guy on the team that can.
Posted by: Manny Navarro | January 23, 2008 at 09:09 PM
Green...The Manny has the numbers trust me. Is there anybody better than Mandingo? NOT even close!
When was the last time that you saw another reporter up until 3 AM working for the bloggers here? NEVER see that at TOS!
Posted by: 86Cane | January 23, 2008 at 09:11 PM
Manny..I got McClinton scoring 28 tonight. Whachu got?
Posted by: 86Cane | January 23, 2008 at 09:14 PM
mind your goddamn business ... PARASITE
Posted by: green | January 23, 2008 at 09:15 PM
what's the score manny. wish i could see the game.
Posted by: regroupingcanefan | January 23, 2008 at 09:18 PM
Green...why the hostility? Your rude and inappropriate behavior is uncalled for.
Manny LOVES the 'Space, just ask him. Why do you have to come on talking like a tough guy? Learn some manners and try again.
Posted by: 86Cane | January 23, 2008 at 09:20 PM
rude. inappropriate. manners. you're one to talk ... PARASITE
Posted by: green | January 23, 2008 at 09:26 PM
Welcome back Brian Asbury!
Posted by: Robnyce | January 23, 2008 at 09:32 PM
E James is sitting with Reggie Wayne
Posted by: john | January 23, 2008 at 09:34 PM
Now McClinton is missing? Is McClinton, Asbury, and vice-versa. It's like, you never see Prince Adam and He-Man together.
Posted by: Robnyce | January 23, 2008 at 09:35 PM
I must say that I am proud of the number of people that are at the game. I just wished the Canes BB would receive a showing like that every time at the BUC. It would be great for them. Go CANES!
Posted by: Canatic | January 23, 2008 at 09:48 PM
Manny, I know you touched on this earlier but any news on the EE?
And Q#2, why are the Canes not going after Q.Taylor after they lost Buchanon?
Posted by: CANES25 | January 23, 2008 at 09:51 PM
We can do this! We can beat these guys. Should have won the last game.
Posted by: rubcatcane | January 23, 2008 at 09:54 PM
Seeing how they're playing, I have to concur RCC. We can definitely beat them. We need to throw the ball inside more often and make Tyler Hansbrough ineffective. He already has 2 fouls. If we keep pounding it inside, we'll wear him out. I hope coach Haith is thinking along the same line as I am.
Posted by: Canatic | January 23, 2008 at 09:57 PM
Coach Haith was definitely thinking like me. However, Dwayne Collins wasn't having much success although he had the shots. They just weren't falling down for him.
Posted by: Canatic | January 23, 2008 at 10:22 PM
Welcome to the show Lance Hurdle. Now can someone stop Hansborough?
Posted by: Robnyce | January 23, 2008 at 10:29 PM
Green...I know it must feel depressing to be irrelevant. But your unprovoked and insulting comments only reveal your sad, lonely and bitter struggle in life. Have a good night and a better tomorrow.
Manny...what's happening? Canes down by 12? We need a major run!
Posted by: 86Cane | January 23, 2008 at 10:32 PM
Manny,
Don't know about where you are sitting, but it seems like the 'Canes are playing against the refs too. Did I forget that we were playing at home tonight?
Bottom line, Hurdle has kept us in the game, but UNC's 20+ offensive rebounds are killing us!
Posted by: SIck at home | January 23, 2008 at 10:35 PM
relax!
pull it together!
its college basketball!
it doesnt matter!
Posted by: rogperu | January 23, 2008 at 10:39 PM
Manny, what all did Etienne have to say? Does he think that his going to osu will stop them from getting blownout in the next NC?
Posted by: The U | January 23, 2008 at 10:42 PM
Canes need stops, quick!!!
Posted by: MRA | January 23, 2008 at 10:45 PM
Sabino switching to the Canes? Hmmmmm....
Posted by: 86Cane | January 23, 2008 at 10:46 PM
Canes down 15 points with 3 minutes left. Not looking good...
Posted by: 86Cane | January 23, 2008 at 10:52 PM
Canes need to play better on D....otherwise, a good effort. Nice to see a packed house. I think UNC is a little overrated...Hansbrough is good, but rest of the team not really that impressive. Still better than the Canes though.
Posted by: Canesjunkie | January 23, 2008 at 11:23 PM
Jacory and other Northwestern kids are moving into their dorms right now. Go 'Canes!
Posted by: john | January 24, 2008 at 12:09 AM
i second what john said, just saw jacory, spence, and forston moving into the dorm
Posted by: canethang25 | January 24, 2008 at 12:32 AM
At the 7:44 mark in the 2nd half, I was removed from the game with two other students of the university for holding up money and telling the referees we could get a collection going for a decent job of calling fouls. The ref on the near side didn't find it amusing apparently.
Posted by: Daniel | January 24, 2008 at 02:18 AM
Mandingo,
Just wanted to stop in and say I appreciate all the recruiting news.
Posted by: TLuv | January 24, 2008 at 02:36 AM
Thanks Manny
Posted by: IndianapolisCane | January 24, 2008 at 08:11 AM
Daniel.
That was funny... cowboy! but that was insulting and you should have been thrown out! How dare you! Hasn't your daddy taught you anything about proper tipping. You should know by now, that they only bend over to pic-up hundreds, not twenties, you dumb asz. LOL
Next time get a bigger tip bowl.
Posted by: Cat5Cane | January 24, 2008 at 08:13 AM
Green...I know it must feel depressing to be irrelevant.
Posted by: 86Cane | January 23, 2008 at 10:32 PM
yet, you stalk, beseech me like a spurned lover ... OBSESSED
Posted by: green | January 24, 2008 at 10:52 AM