Gaucho Basketball News

It was an up and down week for the Gauchos, where we saw them pull of a huge upset over #22 UNLV but then got demolished by #10 San Diego State.

Nunnally= Player of the Week

James Nunnally has won his 2nd Big West Player of the Week award after having a huge performance against UNLV and chipping in a solid game in a loss vs. San Diego State. On Wednesday vs. UNLV, Nunnally had 23 points and 7 rebounds. He made all 6 of his free throw attempts and 4 of them came in the final moments of the upset win. Versus SDSU, he had 15 points in the loss.

Player on the Rise

Greg Somogyi has been playing fantastic lately for the 'Chos. In the loss vs. San Diego State, he was a bright spot with 7 points and 8 rebounds.

Clutch Player of the Week

Justin Joyner easily wins this award. Even though you could say Nunnally or Orlando easily, JJ made two huge three pointers vs. UNLV which gave the Gauchos the lead for good.

Big West Breakdown

Right now, the race for the best team in the conference is close. UCSB has beaten Santa Clara and UNLV on the road. Pacific got wins vs. Nevada and UTEP. And finally, the resurgent Anteaters with their new coach are playing well with a 6-5 record. As of now, I would say UCSB is playing the best basketball but top to bottom, it is just as good as last year.

GO GAUCHOS!

Quotes from the UNLV/UCSB game

Here are some quotes from both teams after UCSB's 68-62 win over #22 UNLV.

Orlando Johnson (On the victory)

"This is a huge win. I wanted to get it in there heads. It was going to be a battle. We traveled too far to lose.

Coach Williams (On responding to the big win before)

"We've won at UNLV and at UCLA before. Those are tough venues. The big wins are in league championships and in the postseason. This was a big test for us tonight."

James Nunnally (On why he shoots his free throws from left side of the stripe)

"I went to the left side of the line in junior high school because my coach noticed I was missing them to the right. And I went 31-35 the rest of the season.

Coach Williams (On the UNLV Crowd)

"It's a huge win. This is the Mountain West. They are chanting Big West is Division II. We wanted to prove that we could compete with the #22 team in the nation."

And Bob, you guys did show those Runnin Rebels up.

Go Gauchos!

Note: More analysis will be available today on this historic win. Also, a preview for Saturdays colossal match-up vs. #10 San Diego State.

UCSB Mens Basketball vs. #22 UNLV

Vegas is supposed to be for partying right? Well UCSB has all the right excuses to hit the town because last night they defeated #22 UNLV 68-62. It was the biggest win on the road for the Gauchos since 2003 when they defeated UCLA. Not only was it huge, it extended the winning streak to three games.

James Nunnally, who had another great game with 23 points and 7 rebounds, said, "This was a very big win!" Well Mr. Nunnally, I think I know who they are adding to the Naismith watch!

At the 15:00 minute mark in the first half, the Gauchos were hanging in there on the wrong side of 10-9. They used a 14-3 run to take control and push the lead to 10, 23-13. They did this by James Nunnally, Orlando Johnson (12 points, 15 rebounds), and Jon Pastorek all hitting treys from deep. Dick Vitale thought, "They are a team of 3's men!" They ended the stretch by the Big Boy, Greg Somogyi, throwing it down right in the face!

They got it to 30-18 but the Runnin' Rebels closed the margin all the way and it was 30-30 at the half.

Coach Williams was happy the first half ended when it did because he thought they needed to talk some things over.

Then after a few buckets here and there, UNLV took a four point lead at 38-34 led by Chase Stanback (16 points, 8 rebounds) but UCSB's Justin Joyner, who had no points all season, nailed back to back three pointers to give the Gauchos the lead. Just might be two of Justin's biggest shots of his career.

Then UCSB pushed it to 48-39 behind a Kyle Boswell score and they held onto a fair sized lead for a long time. Then with 46 seconds to go, UNLV got it down to three at 64-61 but UCSB after that, UNLV stole the ball but missed a few shoots. Then Nunnally got the ball and sank to free throws to put this case to a close!

The Gauchos are now 5-3 and this season and this was their third straight win. The dynamic duo of Nunnally and Johnson had 35 points and 22 rebounds. Jaime Serna put in another solid effort with 12 points and surprisingly Justin Joyner had 8 points to seal the deal.

The Rebels fall to 9-2 and this was their second straight loss. Chase Stanback led them with 16 and Tre'Von Willis had 14.

The Gauchos are back in action Saturday versus another ranked team in #10 San Diego State. It will be on the Mtn. on television at 7:00 p.m.

GO GAUCHOS!

UCSB vs UNLV Preview

One of the biggest games for the Gauchos this season will be tomorrow vs. #22 UNLV in Las Vegas. The Rebels are 9-1 and are coming off a loss to the Gauchos while UCSB is 4-3 and had a week off this past week.

Matchup to Watch

Chase Stanback vs. UCSB Frontcourt

The long, athletic Stanback has been great for the Rebels this year. He is averaging 13 points and 4 rebounds a game. It will be interesting to see if the Gauchos can get a body on this kid and stop him from having a big game.

Important Stat

Free Throw Shooting: UNLV is shooting a sub-par, Gauchos of last year percentage of 68.5 %. The Gauchos on the other hand are shooting a phenomenal 79.4 %.

Player on the Rise

Kyle Boswell: Even though he is only averaging 3 points a game, the freshman has made a great impact. He has started the last two games and vs. LMU, he scored a nice 7 points. The freshman should see a large amount minutes vs. the Runnin' Rebels and could even start again.

UNLV Info

The Runnin' Rebels are lead by Chase Stanback (13p, 4r), Oscar Bellfield (13 p, 3r), and Tre'von Willis (11p, 3r). Their coach is Lon Kruger and leads them at a 9-1 record and a #22 ranking overall in the country.

The Rivalry

The schools have met 35 times with the Rebels winning 27 of those. The Gauchos however had their fair share of memorable moment such as in 1991 when the Gauchos defeated the #2 ranked UNLV at home 78-70. Then in 2006-2007, they defeated them on the road. Finally, in 2007-2008, "Big Game" James Powell nailed a three-pointer as the clock expired to give the Gauchos a huge upset win over the visitors from The Sin City.

Prediction

As Dick Vitale would say "upset city is coming baby!" I think the James Nunnally and Orlando Johnson are on a roll and cannot be stopped. The wing play will be key with both teams have talented wing players. In the end, the Gauchos get a HUGE win over the Runnin' Rebels and extend their winning streak to 3 overall and to 4 against the Gauchos. 'IT WILL BE AWESOME BABY!" Score: Gauchos:76 UNLV:72

GO GAUCHOS!

Gaucho News Update

There has been lots of new the past few days. A Gaucho has earned All-Big West recognition, a feature article on ESPN.com, and a new team in the Big West Conference. Lets get to the news.

James Nunnally named Big West Player of the Week

On Monday, the Big West said James Nunnally was the Big West Player of the Week. Last week, he averaged 31.5 points per game in wins over Loyola Marymount and Santa Clara. He also shot 76% from three point range.

Orlando Johnson on ESPN.com

On Tuesday, a feature article on ESPN.com was on Orlando Johnson. It talked about his family, his transferring to the Gauchos, and his future possibly in the NBA. It was written by Diamond Leung and Mr. Leung also interviewed Orlando.

Hawaii, Welcome to the California Conference

Yesterday, it was announced that the University of Hawaii would be joining the Big West Conference again in 2012. Hawaii left the conference in 1996 and are delighted to come back to the Big West!

GO GAUCHOS!

Upcoming Games:

12/15/10: at UNLV (9-0)

12/18/10: at San Diego State (9-0)

Note: Both teams are in the Top 25

UCSB Mens Basketball vs. Santa Clara

Wow. That "Nunnally for Naismith" chant has never made more sense. James Nunnally went off again as he scored a career high 34 points to lead the Gauchos to a 80-69 win over the Broncos of Santa Clara.

Nunnally, the San Jose native, was closed to his home so many family members came out and saw the best game of his Gaucho career. What a night to have them there!

The whole first half was very close with the Gauchos biggest lead at 6 until with about 2 minutes to go Santa Clara took the lead 31-30. Then the Gauchos closed out the half on a 10-4 run making the score 40-35.

Orlando Johnson, 16 points, and James Nunnally each made a pair of free throws to push the score to 44-35. Then the Gauchos never looked back as the lead stayed around 10 until the Broncos made one last "stampede" to cut the score to 4 with exactly 4 minutes to go. Then Jaime Serna threw down a slam and OJ nailed a three which put the nail in the coffin. They ran out the clock and the Gauchos got a win.

Jaime had a good game with 11 points, 10 rebounds, and WHOPPING 5 blocks. Also, Jordan Weiner chipped in 9 points while Will Brew had a nice showing of 6 points and 3 assists.

The leading scorer for the Broncos was Kevin Foster with 25. He had 19 in the first half so Coach Williams made some great adjustments and held him to 6 in the second half.

The Gauchos are back in action December 15 at UNLV and then December 18 at San Diego State. These are the Gauchos two biggest games of the year with both teams in the Top 25. If Nunnally keeps it going and OJ keeps doing what he is doing, as Dick Vitale would say, "It is gonna be upset city!"

Go Gauchos!

Key Stats:

Attendance: 2,037

3 Point Shots: UCSB-46.7 % SC-36.4%

Free Throws: UCSB-78.1 % SC-59.4%

Records: UCSB (4-3) SC (4-4)

Weird Coincidence: Santa Clara beat UCSB last year 79-68. That is one less than what the winner and loser scored this year. I thought that was kind of cool!

James "Nunnally for Naismith" Nunnally

UCSB Mens Basketball vs. Fresno State

Orlando Johnson went berserk versus the Bulldogs. He scored a career-high 35 points and grabbed 11 rebounds to propel the Gauchos to a 69-54 victory.

The Gauchos got off to a SMOKING start by going on a 13-0 run to start the game. It included Orlando Johnson with 2 assists and 7 points.

Then the Gauchos kept pulling away. They extended their lead at one point to 16 points but the boys from Fresno kept fighting to get it down to a 11 point deficit.

James Nunnally, who scored 12 points, opened the second half by missing a three. The Gauchos struggled in the first few minutes of the second half by not scoring until the 16:34 mark. During that time, the Bulldogs got it down to a 4 point margin.

Then Orlando took over. He would score 7 of the next 10 Gaucho points to push the lead to 46-35. The Gauchos got in cruise control after that and took over the game.

Jon Pastorek and Jaime Serna combined for 13 points while Justin Joyner led the team with 4 assists.

The Bulldogs were led by 15 points from their big man Greg Smith.

The Gauchos go on the road for their next three games as they have a tough road trip with Portland, San Diego State, and Santa Clara.

Go Gauchos!

Attendance: 3,577 (Great opening night attendance)

Class of 2011 Recruit T.J. Taylor

More of a Will Brew or Casper Ware?

Class of 2011 Recruit John Green

Gaucho Hoops signs four players for 2011

The UCSB Mens Basketball signed four players for its 2011 recruiting class. Coach Williams is very excited about the recruits. Here are the four players.

1. John Green, Oakland, CA, 6-5, 180
He averaged 23 points, 7 rebounds, and 3 assists last year for Castlemont High School in Oakland. He is an active AAU baller and Coach Williams compares him to the likes of James Nunnally and Alex Harris.

2. T.J. Taylor, Oakland, CA, 5-9, 160
T.J. plays for Oakland High School and last year averaged 19 points and 6 assists per game. He was named to the All-Oakland Team and nailed 59 three pointers. Coach Williams praises his thre point shooting ability.

3. Alan Williams, Phoenix, AZ, 6-7, 240
Williams plays for North High School and averaged a double-double the classic way by scoring 13 and collecting 10 rebounds per game. This year he is an All-Phoenix and All-Arizona preseason selection.

4. Taran Brown, Gillette, Wyo., 6-8, 190
A lanky forward, Taran helped his school to a 27-1 record and a place in the state title game. With the beaches of SoCal awaiting him, Taran looks poised to keep his averages around 15 and 7 a game.

I will have videos of each recruit!

Go Gauchos!

ESPNU Bracketology, First Release

Everyone knows about Bracketology on ESPN.com by Joe Lunardi. He predicts the 65 NCAA Tournament teams and says which teams are on the "bubble." Well it was good new for the Gauchos. They start the season out as a #15 seed in Lunardi's bracket. They are in the East Newark Region and would play #2 seed Syracuse of the Big East. This is just another pre-season prestigious award that the Gauchos have received. We all know though that championships are not won in November.

Will Brew leads the charge for the Gauchos!

UCSB Mens Basketball vs. The Masters

And you thought they were amazing last year? Well Orlando Johnson and James Nunnally have not missed a beat. They combined for 43 points in a 68-54 exhibition win over The Masters.

It was a very surprising first half with the score only being 30-28. Then OJ and James said, "lets go get it done!" They started the half on a 22-6 run and never looked back. They got it back to 11 but the Gauchos put the lid on the coffin.

The "dynamic" duo of James Nunnally and Orlando Johnson saw James finish with 22 points and 10 rebounds and Orlando finish with 21 points and 5 rebounds. They also combined for 4 alley-oops and monster slams. They chose to be high risers today!

Lucas Devenny and Jon Pastorek had a combined 16 rebounds which contributed to the 50-26 rebounding advantage. The "Big Somog", Greg Somogoyi, had 8 points and 4 rebounds.

A new segment on these blog posts will be "Gaucho Analyisis" where I point out what the Gauchos need to do and where they improved.

Negatives: Not enough production from supporting cast. Where did they go? I thought it was 5 v 2 out there. Okay, Somogyi had a few buckets but Will Brew and Jaime Serna, please show up during the season.

Positives: Rebounding was fantastic. Last year, the Gauchos struggled to rebound down the stretch because of the small lineup. I think this year though with James Powell you will see more of Pastorek and Devenny playing at the 4 and 5 with Somogyi and Serna. You could obviously see the rebounding was out in abundance with the 50 to 26 advantage.

The Gauchos first regular season game is up in Eugene, Oregon at the BTI Invitational. There they will take on South Dakota State, Denver, and Oregon. The first game is vs. Denver on Friday at 4:30 pacific time.

Go Gauchos!

Gauchos Basketball Preview 1 of 5

Hello, it is five days till the exhibition versus the Masters. I cannot wait for Gaucho Basketball. In our first preview, I reveal who I believe will be at the cellar of the Big West, my Coach of the Year, a breakout player, the Gaucho starting lineup, and some other news.

Bottom of the Pack
Last year it was UC Riverside. They finished a game back of CSUN and UCI for the 8th and 7th seeds. This was a huge dissapointment in which many people thought they could be the breakout team.

My pick this year is UC Riverside. They lack the firepower without Kyle Austin to even compete in this league. I think Jim Woolridge has a year left at the helm of the program. 3-13 in league sounds about right.

The Golden One on the Sideline
Last year it was your favorite coach, Bob Williams of you know who. He led the Gauchos to a 20-10 record and a Big West Title. It was a good comeback season after a dissapointing 2008-2009.

My pick this year is Gary Stewart of UC Davis. I think UCD will be in the title hunt and I believe will finish high in the standings. They have Joe Harden and a healthy Mark Payne returning. I believe UCD also gets a postseason berth of some sort this year.

Gaucho out of Nowhere
Last year was a breakout year for many guys on the 'Chos. Orlando Johnson was the best player in the league in his 1st season and Will Brew ran the point like an upperclassmen. Also, Jordan Weiner improved his game and James Nunnally was the 2nd best scorer during conference play.

This year I think it is Chris Brew. We all know he has fantastic ability but didn't get many minutes in his freshman year. With James Powell the 6th man gone, Brew will step right in. He will be a high flying combo guard who can give lots of spark to this Gaucho team.

The Starting Five
Last year had many different lineups in non-conference play. In conference play, they got it right with Serna, Nunnally, OJ, Weiner, and Brew. This year will not look much different except one change.

I believe Will Brew will be the starting point guard. I think though they go a little bigger by playing OJ at the 2, Nunnally at the 3, Serna at the 4, and yes, Greg Somogyi at the 5. Somog showed much improvement late last year and I think is primed for double-double averages this season.

Other News
Publications such as Presidio Sports and Rush the Court have labeled Orlando Johnson as MVP, James Nunnally as All-Conference, and UCSB as the Big West Champs.
The Big West Media tabbed the Gauchos as the front runners for the conference crown.
Friday, 7 p.m., Thunderdome, vs. the Masters, UCSB Basketball 1st Game

GO GAUCHOS

UCSB Mens Soccer vs Cal Poly

Blue-Green Rivalry. Gauchos vs Mustangs. SB vs SLO. Its the good old Central Coast rivalry between UCSB and Cal Poly and the Gauchos won one to remember 2-1 a Harder Stadium.

The game was viewed by 6,057 fans on a brisk night in Santa Babara. The scoring was begun in the 50th minute when Super Sam Garza took the ball at midfield and fired an absolute cracker into the top corner of the goal. The tortillas were flying and the Gauchos were flying super high!

Then those hippies from SLO got on the board when Poly player Cameron Winters slid one past freshman goalie Eric Reyes for the equalizer in the 77th minute.

Then thunderstruck and it was pure chaos when Machael David passed a ball to Luis Silva who scored his first of the season in the 90th minute for the 2-1 win over the rivals.

The win improves the 'Chos to 6-3-2 overall and 3-1 in conference play. The Gauchos have now
been 10-0-1 in their last 11 bouts vs the Mustangs at home.

The Gauchos outshot the Mustangs 18-11 and had an outstanding 13 shots on target.

The win improves the Gauchos record in the Blue-Green Rivalry to 2-0 this season with 2 points on the board. The Gauchos next game is on Friday as they take on Duke in a national televised game on FSC.

Go Gauchos!

UCSB Mens Basketball News Update

There is a lot of buzz circulating around the UCSB Basketball team. First off, they have been predicted to win the Big West in four different preseason college basketball magazines. Also, the Gauchos will be on television six times during conference play.

Preseason Buzz

The Gauchos were predicted to be the Big West Champions by Lindy's, Sporting News, Athlon, and Blue Ribbon Year Book. Orlando Johnson was also the Preseason Player of the Year in all four and James Nunnally joined him on the Preseason 1st Team All-Big West.

Coach Williams said this gains a lot of attention for the program but they still have to go out on the court and perform to be the champion at the end of the season.

ESPN2, ESPNU, FS West, and FS Prime Ticket

The Gauchos will be on the tube this year and they will be on it the most of any Big West team during the season.

The first televised game is when the Long Beach State 49ers take on the Gauchos in The T-Dome on December 28th on ESPNU at 8:00 p.m. Then they have back to back TV games when they take on Pacific on ESPNU on February 3rd then they have UC Davis on FSPT on the 5th.

Then on the 26th of February 3 of the 4 games in the Big West that day will be on TV by either ESPN2, ESPNU, or FS West. They Long Beach State in the Pyramid and that will most likely be on ESPN2. Then there is the ESPNU Bracket Buster Game.

Go Gauchos!

All-American Orlando "Mr. MVP" Johnson

Big West Mens Basketball Preview #1 (Long Beach State)

Can you believe it is only one month till college basketball starts again? Well I am so excited and cannot wait for the Big West and the rest of the NCAA to get back into action.

Over this next month, here at UCSB Gauchos Blog we will be previewing the Big West, UCSB, and the NCAA. The first eight previews are on all of the Gaucho's Big West rivals. The first one is 2010 Big West Tournament runner-up (I still enjoy saying that) Long Beach State.

Long Beach State

The 49ers are coming off a disappointing season even though they came within five points of making the NCAA Tournament. They went 17-16 after a grueling non-conference schedule which included Duke, Texas, West Virginia, and Notre Dame. Then in conference play they were very inconsistent even though they had the best talent overall in the Big West with Casper "The Friendly Ghost" Ware, TJ "Mr. Double-Double" Robinson, and Larry "LAX" Anderson.

They got the #3 seed in the Big West Tournament and beat Cal Poly and then Pacific to reach the title game. Then they lost to UCSB 69-64 in the title game.

So this season they bring back most of their key players. They are losing three-point specialist Stephan Gilling and two big men up front. They bring in loads of talent this year with Jacob Thomas, Shelton Boykin, and Nick Shepherd. Thomas is the #32 shooting guard according to ESPN.com while Boykin is the #25 small forward.

The schedule this year doesn't get any easier this year. They have San Diego State (home), Paradise Jam Tournament, Washington (away), North Carolina (away), and Arizona State (away). Their first conference game is at UCSB on ESPNU.

It should be the Gauchos and the 49ers neck and neck this year for the Big West Championship!

Will Brew and Casper Ware will be two of the top point guards in the Big West!

Highlights from UCSB's record setting 2-0 win over UCLA

GO GAUCHOS!

UCSB Mens Soccer vs. UCLA Bruins

Soldout crowd. Ranked team vs. Ranked Team. Former National Champs. This had all the makings of an instant classic. It turned out to be gauchorific as the Gauchos got way back on track by beating the #7 UCLA Bruins 2-0 in front of 15,896 fans. That is the second all-time in the NCAA Mens Soccer attendance record. That was however the most fans ever at Harder Stadium for a soccer match.

Going into the game, the Gauchos had just won two in a row. They knew if they beat UCLA they would be back in the National Championship hunt. They got back in it in a big way.

After over an hour of a stalemate between the two UC schools, the Gauchos found the back of the net. After the ball bounced around in the box off of a corner kick, it found the feet of freshman superstar David Opoku who sent the tortillas flying and the people jumping with his goaaaaaalllll!

Then in the 90th minute, Luis Silva and Danny Barrera had a break away which then Silva passed to Barrera and the All-American slotted home the goal.

Tim Vom Steeg said it "never felt so good to win a game." Freshman David Opoku said "it was the best moment in my young career." Vom Steeg was so excited that before the game he had to tune into AM Channel 1610 for traffic updates because so many people were coming tonight.

The Gauchos after this emotional win get back into action September 29 at 7:00 p.m. at Cal State Foolerton.

This is the third win in the row for the Gauchos with all three coming on shutouts.

Go Gauchos!

Key Stats:
Attendance: 15,896
Shots: UCLA-8 UCSB-12
Fouls: UCLA-15 UCSB-15
Records: UCLA:4-2-1 UCSB:3-2-2

Lobo Classic Recap Men's Soccer

Finally, those are the Gauchos we know. With conference play soon and a tilt with UCLA around the corner, it was good for the Gauchos to have a good weekend. They beat #6 Harvard 2-0 and Buffalo in convincing fashion 4-0.

In the first game vs. the boys from Cambridge, they got on the board right before the half with a goal from junior Joe Eubanks who got it in after a cross from Sam Garza. Then David Opoku got past the Harvard goalie to make it 2-0 with only 3 minutes to go.

The Gauchos had 10 shots and 6 of them were on target. Senior 'keeper Sam Hayden got back to his old ways with a season-high 5 saves. He was named a College Soccer News Player of the Week!

In the second match of the weekend, the Gauchos came out swinging. They came to dance but Buffalo didn't even get "Off the Wall." You know you like the Michael Jackson reference.

Well they beat the Buffaloes 4-0 in a match where the Gauchos struck early. Tim Pontius put a rebounded shot in the back of the net. Then in the 27th minute Opoku scored another goal when he and Garza did a little back and forth action which resulted in a goal. Then Garza in the 68th got a ball from Opoku and put fired an absoulte firecracker past the goalie! With the game winding down and the Gauchos locked in for the win, UCSB made the Buff's cry when Christian Ramirez scored his first goal in a Gaucho uniform.

The Gauchos get back into action with a huge match vs. UCLA on September 24th at 7:00 p.m. The 'Chos will be looking for revenge after last years 2-1 NCAA Tournament loss.

Go Gauchos!

Tim Pontius scored a goal this weekend

UCSB Mens Basketball Schedule Released

Finally. The UCSB Mens Basketball team officially released its schedule today. The schedule features teams like Oregon, Portland, UNLV, and San Diego State. The Gauchos home schedule includes Fresno State, Loyola Marymount, ESPNU Bracketbuster, and Long Beach State.

The first game of the season is against The Masters on November 5th at The Thunderdome. Then they travel to Eugene, Oregon to play in the Oregon Tournament which includes South Dakota State, Denver University, Oregon, and your 2010 Big West Champion Gauchos!

Then the next six games are the heart of this non-conference schedule. Whent they get back from winning the Oregon Tournament, the Gauchos will play Fresno State in UCSB, then play Portland in their second trip to the state, and then at home versus the Lions of Loyola Marymount who gave the Gauchos a scare last year in a 89-84 Gaucho win!

Then the Gauchos get on the buses and planes for a HUMONGOUS three game road stretch. They first travel to Northern California to take on Santa Clara. The Gauchos will be looking for revenge after losing to Santa Clara at home last season. Then they take on two Mountain West NCAA Tournament participants as the UNLV-UCSB rivalry gets renewed in the Sin City and then the boys from SB try to win in San Diego vs San Diego State. The Gauchos lost a close one to the Aztecs last year in the T-Dome. The last time UCSB played UNLV, James Powell made a game winning three at the buzzer to give the Gauchos a 63-60 win over the Runnin Rebels.

Then two more non-conference cupcakes which are sandwiched around the BIG KAHUNA tilt which features the Big West RUNNER UPS, Long Beach State (What now Beach?!?!?) and the Big West CHAMPS.

That is the first of the sixteen Big West games for the 'Chos this season. Then they travel to farmer Joe country as they play the hippies from Davis and the team that has a pyshco coach, the Pacific Tigers.

Then the Champs return home to take on two fellow UC schools in Irvine and Riverside. UCSB swept both teams last year.

Then they travel to the heart of the OC as they take on Cal-State Fullerton and then the first of two Blue-Green Rivalry games versus the Cal Poly Lady Mustangs (You heard what I called you Cal Poly).

Then they take on Cal-State Northridge and Pacific at the T-Dome. After that homestand, they travel for three games as they will play UC Davis, UC Riverside, and UC Irvine in a seven day span.

Then they have a home conference game vs. the Titans of Fullerton and then a ESPNU Bracket Busters Game in Santa Barbara.

Then they finish the road season with Cal-State Northridge and Long Beach State. The Long Beach game is at the special time of 4:05 which means most likely the cameras will be at The Beach.

Then on Senior Day when we will honor Jordan Weiner, Justin Joyner, and Jon Pastorek they play the Lady Mustangs at The Thunderdome.

Prediction: This is early and I cannot really tell yet but I say we go 22-7 with wins over UNLV and Oregon. We will lose to San Diego State but then get the Big West #1 seed and get a 12 seed in the Big Dance!

Go Gauchos!

UCSB Mens Soccer vs. Mexico U-20

With the international flavor in the air again, the Gauchos and U20 Mexico battled to a stalemate through regulation. So when your tied, you got to go to penalty kicks and that is where Mexico defeated the 'Chos 1-1 (3-1 pk).

The Gauchos were coming off an exhibition win over Westmont 3-1 and looked to get another exhibition win. It started off well for the Gauchos as they got numerous chances on goal in the early going. Then in the 31st minute the Gauchos struck first as Luis Silva passed it to Michael Tetteh who struck a laser on the ground that got past the goal keeper. The tortillas were on the field and you knew it was a good time to be a Gaucho.

Then when Mexico needed a score, they got one. In the 42nd minute off of a corner kick, the ball bounced around until it found Alan Izaguirre who put it in the back of the net.

The game was very physical with the 18 fouls for El Tri and 22 for the boys from I.V.

The Gauchos next game is September, 1st as they take on Cal-State Bakersfield in their regular season opener. Tickets are available at ucsbgauchos.cstv.com

Go Gauchos!

Key Stats
Attendance: 4,188
Shots: Mexico: 9 UCSB: 7

Goal Scorer Michael Tetteh

Gaucho Soccer Stars Selected as Lowes Senior CLASS nominees

UCSB Gauchos seniors D Michael Boxall and GK Sam Hayden were selected as candidates for the Lowes Senior CLASS Award. The award recognizes the soccer player who best exemplified the four core values of the award; community, classroom, character, and competition.

Boxall and Hayden are among thirty Division I Male Soccer athletes who were selected. The winner will be announced during the College Cup which is held at UCSB!

Go Gauchos!

Senior Defender Michael Boxall

NCAA Mens Soccer Rankings Released/Barrera named All-American

College Soccer News has just released their 2010 Pre-season Top 30 rankings and it looks like the Gauchos got a lot of love. The 'Chos were ranked #6 in the country and were the highest ranked team in the Western United States of America. They look to be poised to compete for the National Championship on their home turf this year.

In other news, UCSB Midfielder Danny Barrera was named a Pre-season CSN All-American. The junior was an All-Far West selection and All-Big West selection last year. He tallied 9 assists and 5 goals during the 2009 campaign. He looks to excite the tortilla throwing crowds at Harder Stadium this upcoming season!

Go Gauchos!

Danny Barrera

Gaucho Pride Nationwide

As I was driving in Downtown Boston yesterday, I saw a really cool car. It wasn't a pimped out Benz or lift kit Toyota Tundra, it was a Rav 4 with the coolest sticker and license plate ever. The car had a UCSB sticker and license plate. So when we got up to a red light, we started talking to the guy. He saw our UCSB sticker. What a cool gathering of Gauchos. Boston, MA, stoplight, and two Gauchos. Priceless.

Go Gauchos!

Comparing Gauchos to Guys in the NBA

What if the Gauchos were real players in the NBA. Well here are my thoughts on Gauchos who are a lot like guys in the NBA.

Orlando "MVP" Johnson: LeBron James: The Superstar of the Team and leads team in lots of categories every single night.

James "Pippen" Nunnally: Scottie Pippen: He is Orlando Johnson's sidekick and puts up almost the same numbers as OJ every night. Every championship team needs this kind of guy.

Jaime Serna: Glen "Big Baby" Davis: Undersized for his position but is a good finisher around the rim and brings a certain passion for the game that makes him special.

Will Brew: Nate Robinson: Makes big shots when you need him most and sometimes throws it down even though he can be the smallest guy on the floor.

Jordan Weiner: Kyle Korver: May be shorter than Korver but is really good at one thing, three point shooting.

Greg Somogyi: Manute Bol: Doesn't average many points but when he comes in he blocks a lot of shots and throws down dunks!

Justin Joyner: Raymond Felton: High assist men who do not turn the ball over.

Chris Brew: Jamario Moon: Elevator Men. They get up and throw it down!

Those are all the ones I could come up with. Pretty good team in the NBA if this was real!

Go Gauchos!

James Nunnally, The "Scottie Pippen" of the Gauchos

UCSB Play by Play Radio Man Gerry Fall hosts show on FSC

UCSB Mens Basketball play by play man for the Gauchor radio broadcasts is hosting a 30 minute weekly show on the United Soccer Leagues.

Gerry Fall who was the KEYT sports director for fifteen years as been a fixture in covering Santa Barbara sports since the mid 1990's.

He calls the play by play games with Don Ford.

Go Gauchos!

UCSB Basketball Season Tickets Availabe Now

UCSB Men's and Women's Basketball in conjunction with the Ticket Office have announced that season tickets for this upcoming season are available.

For 200 dollars, you get tickets for all the Men's and Women's games. That is 50% off the single game price.

The schedules for both teams are not official yet.

Go Gauchos!

UCSB All-American Forward Orlando Johnson

UCSB Mens Soccer Update

The schedule has been out for quite some time but I would like to highlight some key matches this season.

The marquee teams UCSB will be playing out of conference this fall are the U-20 Mexico team, Davidson, UCLA, and Duke. All of these matches are at the spruced up Harder Stadium.

Last season UCSB beat U-17 Mexico 2-1 at Harder Stadium in front of about 8,000 fans, mostly Mexico fans. Then in the Sweet 16, they lost to UCLA in Westwood 2-1 with about 3,000 people in attendance.

Duke finished ranked #12 in the country last year while Davidson finished the season 10-7 while beating 2 ranked opponents during the season.

It promises to be a season of tortilla tossing and goal scoring for the Gauchos.

Do not forget to get your season tickets and College Cup tickets.

Go Gauchos!

Michael Boxall was the anchor of that UCSB defense last season

UCSB Basketball Schedule Breaking News #3

The third team in the Big West has announced its schedule. It is the Aggies of UC Davis.

The Gauchos will take on the Aggies in Davis on January 6th, 2011 at 7 p.m. Then the Aggies will come to Santa Barbara on February 5th, 2011 at 7 p.m. to play vs the Gauchos in the T-Dome!

Last year, the Gauchos went 3-0 vs the Aggies which included a 76-62 win in the Big West Tournament Semifinals.

Go Gauchos! Jon Pastorek looks to play well vs. the Aggies!

UCSB Basketball Schedule Breaking News #2

Another Big West team has released their schedule and it is arch rival and 2010 runner up Long Beach State. It feels good to say Long Beach is the runner up!

Well, the Gauchos will play the 49ers in the Big West opener at The Thunderdome on December 28th at 7:05 p.m. It is a Tuesday night game. Then the Gauchos will travel to The Beach February 26th looking for revenge as they try to avenge last years 21 point loss in a 4:05 match. It should be another great duo of games between the Battle of the Beaches.

Go Gauchos!

Jordan Weiner came up big vs. The Beach last year!

Keegan Hornbuckle joins UCSB

Its official. After weeks of hearing his name out there, UCSB has landed another key transfer. This one is named Keegan Hornbuckle who played his freshman season at Colorado.

Keegan will be able to play in the 2011-2012 season and will have three years of eligibility after that. Just a few weeks ago, UCSB landed Nate Garth from New Mexico.

Hornbuckle is an athletic 6'7'' power forward with a good outside shot. Coach Williams says Hornbuckle reminds him of the great Chris Devine. Not bad company!

Hornbuckle attended Campbell Hall High School in North Hollywood.

"On my visit, I thought that I really fit in well with the players and that the coaches did a good job of explaining to me what my role would be," he said. He also said he wanted to be closer to home and that he wanted to see his brother Matt play who will be going to Westmont in Montecito.

For more info on Hornbuckle, click here: http://www.ucsbgauchos.cstv.com/sports/m-baskbl/spec-rel/070110aaa.html

GO GAUCHOS!

UCSB Basketball Schedule Breaking News

The only team in the Big West to release their schedule so far is Cal State Fullerton and from that we know when the Gauchos will play the Titans.

On January 22, 2011, the Gauchos will play at Titan Gym at 6:05 vs CSUF. Then on February 16, 2011, UCSB will play host to the Titans.

Last year, the Gauchos beat them at home and on the road. Sure hope we can do that again this year!

Go Gauchos!

Will Brew will try to lead the Gauchos past the Titans!

Here is Michael Young on Jim Rome

Two Former Gaucho's on ESPN together today

A very cool day for Gaucho Athletics and Baseball. Jim Rome, class of 1986, hosts a thirty minute show on ESPN during the weekday's called "Jim Rome is Burning." Michael Young, an MLB All-Star, was featured on the show today.

Michael Young a few weeks ago set the Rangers hit record and this week his team is playing the Angels. His team is in 1st place in the AL West.

At the end of the conversation between Rome and Young, Jim Rome said this, "Go Gauchos!" Two Gauchos talking on ESPN, HOW COOL!

Go Gauchos!

Michael Young

Former Gaucho Brian Shaw might become NBA Head Coach

ESPN has said that former Gaucho and current Los Angeles Lakers assistant Brian Shaw is up for the Cleveland Cavaliers head coaching job. It is rumored that Shaw was even calling other assistant's to join him in Cleveland.

Shaw, 44, has no previous head coaching experience but has been one of Phil Jacksons top assistants on two NBA Championship teams. He is good friends with Kobe Bryant and brings an NBA playig experience with him.

In the 1988 NBA Draft, the Boston Celtics selected him with the 24th overall pick.

Shaw played with the Celtics, Heat, Magic, Warriors, 76ers, Blazers, and Lakers. He won championships as a player and as a coach with the Lakers.

Shaw would become the 2nd Big West Basketball alumni to become an NBA Head Coach. The other one is Scott Brooks of the Oklahoma City Thunder.

Go Gauchos!

Brian Shaw

World Cup Preview: USA vs. Algeria

This may not be about UCSB, but we do live in America. Tomorrow, the USA will play Algeria for a spot in the knockout rounds of the 2010 World Cup. If the Americans win, they are in. If they tie and England loses or ties, the USA would make it. For a preview on the match, watch the video below which is UCSB's World Cup Blog. ENJOY and GO USA!!!

UCSB Basketball Camp Recap June 14-18

What a fun week. I had been looking forward to this week for a while and it was a great time at UCSB Basketball Camp. I played tons of games, had a good amount of assists, and got to hang out with some cool kids.

The players from the UCSB team that were there were Orlando Johnson, Justin Joyner, Christian Peterson, and Seth Kamphoefner. The coaches who were there were Coach Jono, Coach Campbell, and Coach Stock.

The first day we were put on teams. My coach was Orlando and we were "The Truth" in honor of Celtics All-Star Paul Pierce. During the week, we went 8-2 and won most of our games by double-digits. Some of our solid players were Pete and Brandon who did a little of everything. Daniel, Arman, and Griffin all did their roles and Brian provided an extra spark. Our team was very good.

We also did two drills per day. We did drills that involved fast breaks, shooting, and ballhandling. Coach Campbell and Coach Stock ran the drills.

We also played 1 v 1, 2 v 2, and 3 v 3 games. I was pretty solid in 1 v 1 but in 2 v 2, Peter and I dominated most of the time.

Overall, it was a great week. I had a super time and cannot wait for this upcoming season of Gaucho Basketball!

GO GAUCHOS!

P.S. Thanks Coach Jono for giving me the basketball!

Former Gaucho Tony Lochhead leads New Zealand to 1-1 Draw against Italy

For a recap on the game, click here: http://soccernet.espn.go.com/report?id=264063&cc=5901&ver=us

GO GAUCHOS!

Big West Tournament Promo Video

Are you going to the Big West Tournament? I know all of the Big West mascots will be there. Get your tickets for the West Coast's oldest conference basketball tournament at bigwest.org or hondacenter.com!

Go Gauchos!

Welcome to the New Blog Template

As you can see, the blog has got a makeover. Here at UCSB Gauchos Blog, the colors have changed and we will add more videos to the blog. More Gaucho gadgets will be added on the right side of your page. I hope you enjoy the new blog look!

Go Gauchos!

Gaucho Basketball Schedule (Partial)

I have been waiting for a while for the full UCSB Basketball schedule for next season. I was looking around and on the Fox Sports College Basketball Blog, I found out some of UCSB's games. Here they are:

• Oregon Basketball Tournament: South Dakota State, Denver, UCSB, Oregon
• Home Games: vs. Loyola Marymount (11-20) and Fresno State (12-21)
• Away Games: vs. Portland (11-27), Santa Clara (12-4) and UNLV (12-15)

The full schedule should come out soon with Coach Williams trying to fill out schedule slots. I cannot wait for 2010-2011 UCSB Basketball!

Go Gauchos!

Orlando Johnson named Preseason Mid-Major All-American

Reigning Big West Conference MVP Orlando Johnson was named yesterday to the Rivals.com Mid-Major Preseason All-American Team for the 2010-2011 season.

This past season, the sophomore from Seaside averaged 18 ppg and 5.4 rpg. He was named Big West MVP, Big West All-1st Team, Big West Tournament MVP, Big West Tournament All-Tournament Team, Lou Henson All-American, AP All-American, and All-District. He led the Gauchos to a 20-10 record and a dance ticket with the Ohio State Buckeyes.

Orlando will be joined on the team by some premier Mid-Major players. The team includes:

• Elias Harris, Gonzaga
• Ryan Rossiter, Siena
• Charles Jenkins, Hofstra
• Shelvin Mack, Butle

Go Gauchos!

Orlando throws it down vs. Ohio State!

UCSB P Mario Hollands Drafted in 10th Round

UCSB Pitcher Marion Hollands was selected in the 10th Round by the Philadelphia Phillies in the MLB 1st Year Player Draft.

Super Mario Notes:
16 Strikeouts in a game vs. NIU this year.
Participated in the "Gunnar Shades" Video.
Was Selected last year by the Minnesota Twins but did not sign.

Go Gauchos!

UCSB Movie Series, Part I

In the first of two movies, junior Gaucho Locos star in movies. Here is the original, "Tyler Coady: A True UCSB Fan." Check it out. Please rate below on the comment bar.




Go Gauchos!

Summer Predictions

Happy Summer! Summer finally is here and I cannot wait. There is a lot going on at UCSB Athletics during the summer. Here is a preview and my thoughts.

June 14-18: UCSB Men's Basketball Camp
It is a really fun camp for kids my age to go and play hoops with great coaches who are the UCSB coaches and players. I am going and cannot wait to be there in 11 days at the T-Dome!

Rest of the Summer: College Cup Preparations, Men's Basketball Schedule Release, Men's Soccer begins games
The College Cup. This will be huge. 17,000 rowdy Gaucho locos watching the Men's Soccer team take home a national title. Yes, I am predicting that!!!! Then the schedule for Men's B-Ball comes out: I predict Portland, Saint Marys, and UCLA on the schedule! Then the Men's Soccer team begins their quest for a 2nd National Championship!

It should be a good 2010-2011 and it all starts with preparation during the days of summer!

Go Gauchos!

2009-2010 UCSB Men's Basketball Dunks

Gaucho Dunks of 2009-2010! Throwing it down with some authority!

Meet Newest Gaucho Nate Garth

This is new point guard Nate Garth!

Go Gauchos and welcome to the family Nate!

2010 SB Awards

What a great way to end another banner year for Gaucho Athletics. It was a year where we saw Big West Championships, NCAA Tournaments, and All-Americans.

The top honors of the night went to Orlando Johnson who was named Male Athlete of the Year and Rebecca Saraceno who took home Female Athlete of the Year.

Orlando (OJ) Johnson led the Gauchos back to the promise land this season as he led the conference in scoring. He took home many trophies this season as he was named Big West MVP, 1st Team All-Big West, Big West Tournament MVP, 1st Team All-Big West Tournament, AP Honorable Mention All-American, Mid Major All-American, and All-District. Mr. Johnson is going to need a big trophy case.

Rebecca Saraceno was the Big West MVP this season in volleyball. She recorded 4.55 kills per set and 2.66 digs per set. She also was AP Honorable Mention All-American, All-District, and 1st Team All-Big West.

The Men's Basketball team took home Team of the Year. They were the Big West Regular Season and Tournament Champions and represented the Big West in the Big Dance.

The Women's Track and Field team took home the other Team of the Year award. The ladies were ranked as high as #33 in the country during the season.

The Coach of the Year was Bob Williams of Men's Basketball and for the women it was Kathy Gregory of Women's Volleyball.

The Male Newcomer of the Year was Orlando Johnson. Let's put it this way, OJ is going to win a lot of awards during his next two years in Gaucho blue and gold. My bold prediction: A 2nd Round Draft Pick in 2012 NBA Draft.

The Female Newcomer of the Year was Mekia Valentine of Women's Basketball who set the school record for blocks in a season and also led the Lady Gauchos in scoring.

Between the awards, my man Matt in the Video Department made some great Ole videos and my favorite, I.V. Shore. I.V. Shore is a whole lot better than Jersey Shore. The 10 minute skit was about Ole going to live with some UCSB athletes such as "Big Sexy" Greg Somogyi, Mike "The Diesel" Ford, and Dana "Buns" Vargas. In the end, he is kicked out.

To recap the night, Men's Basketball won the most awards. Very deserving. Congrats to all 450 student-athletes on great years! Personally, I liked meeting new Men's Basketball assistant coach Kevin Bromley. He is a great coach and he will make a big impact.

Go Gauchos!

A full list of awards: http://www.ucsbgauchos.cstv.com/ot/sbawards_10.html

Coach Williams gets his award

Me posing for a photo in my spiffy suit

UCSB Mens Basketball adds Nate Garth to the roster

In this spring signing period, lots of players like to move schools. UCSB got one of those kids. The new player for the Gauchos is Nate Garth. Garth is a point guard who is transferring from the New Mexico Lobos. The Lobos won 30 games this past season.

Garth played two years for the Lobos. This past season, Garth averaged 4.1 ppg, 3.1 apg, 1.1 rpg in 16 minutes a game.

Garth will become eligible in 2011-2012. By NCAA rules every transfer has to sit a year. Hopefully he will be worth the wait just like Orlando Johnson was.

This is what Garth had to say about joining the Gauchos family. "I'm excited about the opportunity to play at UCSB. With the team they already have it should be fun. I'm hoping to come in, make plays, and help the team the best I can."

Nate Garth is originally from Sacramento, CA. He graduated high school though from Hamilton High School in Memphis, TN. As a junior, Garth played at Woodrow Wilson High School in Dallas, TX.

Go Gauchos and welcome to the Gaucho family Nate Garth!!!!

SB Awards 2009-2010 Predictions

It was a great year for Gaucho sports. Numerous teams won the Big West and played in the NCAA Tournament. There were multiple award winners in every sport. So to cap the great year off, the UCSB Athletics Department holds the SB Awards. It is the ESPY's of UCSB Athletics. So below are my predictions.

Male Athlete of the Year: Milos Golic, Water Polo
Reason: I wanted to pick Orlando Johnson but Milos was selected to 1st Team All-American. He is a four time All-American.
Honorable Mention: Orlando Johnson (Basketball), Jeff Menzel (Volleyball), David Walker (Soccer)

Female Athlete of the Year: Anne Marie May, Swimming
Reason: She was the Big West Swimmer of the Year and made it to the NCAA Tournament for the fourth time in four years,

Men's Coach of the Year: Bob Williams, Basketball
Reason: I know Tim Vom Steeg led the Gauchos in soccer to the Sweet 16, but it was a great comeback year for the Gauchos as they won 20 games, Big West Regular Season, and the Big West Tournament.

Women's Coach of the Year: Gregg Wilson, Swimming
Reason: Led the Gauchos to another Big West title and was the Big West Coach of the Year.

Male Newcomer of the Year: Michael Nonni, Soccer
Reason: Scored 6 goals and recorded 6 assists has he helped the Gauchos back to the Sweet 16.

Female Newcomer of the Year: Mekia Valentine, Basketball
Reason: She came as a transfer and proved to be a force leading the Gauchos in rebounding and setting the school record for blocks in a season.

Male Performance of the Year: Orlando Johnson and James Nunnally vs. Long Beach State
Reason: The duo combined for 39 points and 11 rebounds to lead the Gauchos back to the Big Dance!

Men's Team of the Year: Soccer
Reason: Won the Big West Regular Season and advanced all the way too the NCAA Sweet 16.

Female Team of the Year: Volleyball
Reason: The storied program went back to the NCAA Tournament behind All-American Rebecca Saraceno.

I will not be predicting some of the other awards because it is too hard. Well there you have it, the best Gauchos from 2009-2010. GREAT JOB ALL 20 SPORTS!

GO GAUCHOS!

UCSB Mens Basketball hires Kevin Bromley to coaching staff

On Thursday, Bob Williams announced the hiring of former Cal Poly coach Kevin Bromley to be on the Men's Basketball coaching staff.

Bob Williams said "Kevin has more experience in the Big West Conference than anybody except Bob Thomason."

Bromley's most successful season at Cal Poly was 2006-2007 when the Mustangs finished with a 9-5 record and a 2nd place finish in the Big West. They reached the title game for the 2nd time in school history that season.

Bromley is taking over for the departed Brad Holland.

A fantastic choice by Coach Williams!

Go Gauchos!

Mens Basketball Coaching Search

With the departure of assistant coach Brad Holland earlier this week, Coach Williams will have to find a new assistant coach.

Brad Holland left to become the Executive Director of the Carlsbad Boys and Girls Club earlier this week. He spent two positive seasons with the Gauchos where he helped the team to the NCAA Tournament.

Brad's specialty was his shooting. In the NBA with the Lakers, Brad was known as a shooter. He helped improve UCSB great James Powell with his stroke and also helped me with my shot at the UCSB Basketball Summer Camp.

So now the candidates. Coach Williams will have to find a coach with a good amount of experience and also he will have to be able to be the shooting coach.

I would predict that Coach Williams takes a coach with experience in the Big West and possibly a present day Big West assistant to come to the beautiful city of Santa Barbara.

All I can say is that Coach will find a great guy and we shall see who he picks in the coming days.

James Powell had a much improved senior season due to Brad Holland

Brad Holland to leave UCSB

UCSB assistant coach Brad Holland will leave the UCSB Men's Basketball Coaching Staff to become the Chief Professional Officer for the Carlsbad Boys and Girls Club. Carlsbad is where Brad raised his children and lived for quite a long time.

Brad has been part of the staff since the spring of 2008. Is shooting expertise and coaching helped Orlando Johnson become the clutch player he was down the stretch. Brad also helped me refine my shot at UCSB Basketball Summer Camp.

Coach Bob Williams says Brad was a vital part to the UCSB staff and wishes him the best.

Coach Williams will begin the search for a new assistant coach.

Go Gauchos!

Coach Holland with James Nunnally

Gunnar Shades Picture

With "Gunnar Shades" being the new thing to make you invincible and a big deal, here is a photo of the original gunnar shades in action. Polyester suits and baseball go right together!

Get your Gunnar Shades Saturday at 1 p.m. at the UCSB Baseball game vs. #22 Cal State Fullerton!

GO GAUCHOS!

UCSB Mens Basketball Banquet

After a fantastic season where we saw the Gauchos conquer Anaheim and make the NCAA Tournament, we had to have some type of party. They did and I had a great time. It was the 2010 Big West Champion Men's Basketball Banquet. The crowd had about 200 people. It included all the players, coaches, support staff, boosters, and two lucky fans. My dad and I. So here is what happened.

First, Big West Coach of the Year Bob Williams talked about how successful of a season it was. It was indeed. 20 Wins. A regular season championship. A tournament championship. NCAA tournament berth. It was a special season.

Next, Chancellor Yang told some stories of the 2002 NCAA Tournament and how he took a bus from the men's game to the women's game 12 hours away with the UCSB pep band.

After that, the scrumptious dinner was served. I had salmon, vegetables, bread, and a coke. They offered great food. I sat at Table 4 with James Powell and his family. I had a great time getting to know his family.

Next, Gaucho sharpshooter, Class of 2004 guard Branduinn Fullove presented the Gaucho jackets. They are cool jackets for players who have just completed their second season with the Gauchos.

After that, my man Matt from the UCSB Athletics Department created a highlight video of the entire season. It featured clips of every player, the Big West Tournament, and the NCAA Tournament. Not to brag, but I had my fair share of moments in that video.

Then the awards presentation took place. Orlando Johnson was given his 1st Team All Big West Award and Big West MVP Award. Then the entire coaching staff gave Bob Williams his Big West Coach of the Year Award. Finally for conference awards, James Nunnally was given his 2nd Team All Big West Award.

Following those awards, team awards were given out. Jordan Weiner won Top Scholar on the team, Orlando Johnson won team MVP, Greg Somogyi got Most Improved, and James Powell and Paul Roemer shared the Captains' Award.

Then it was time to honor the seniors.

Paul Roemer and James Powell both gave speeches on how they loved UCSB, thanked important people, and talked about their fantastic careers. Thanks James for giving me a shout out in your speech!

Finally, Bob Williams talked about what he expects from his team in the future.

In my opinion, it was a great event. I had a great time sitting with James Powell, watching the highlight video, and seeing the trophies.

GO GAUCHOS!

Jamell Johnson, Orlando Johnson's older brother.

Paul Roemer and James Powell.

OJ with his two conference awards.

Me with the Big West Tournament Trophy.

Me with the Big West Regular Season Trophy.

Gunnar Shades

Here is a promotional video for fans to come out to the UCSB baseball game Saturday vs. CS Fullerton Titans. It is hilarious!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rSILh-quGBs

Orlando Johnson Awards 2009-2010 Season

Sorry for the lack of blog posts over the past week and a half but I have been enjoying spring break in Arizona.

Well, Orlando Johnson keeps getting honored for his great season. Yesterday, Orlando was named a 2010 Lou Henson All-American. This prestigious honor was given to the 30 best Mid-Major players in the country. Some other notable names are Matt Bouldin of Gonzaga, Adam Koch of Northern Iowa, and Shelvin Mack of Butler. OJ and Mack were the only underclassmen on the list.

Other awards OJ has won this season have been 2010 Big West Conference Player of the Year, 1st Team All Big West, 2010 Big West Conference Tournament MVP, NABC First Team All District, and All Big West Tournament.

OJ averaged 18.0 ppg and 5.7 rpg in his first season in Gaucho blue. He scored 20 points in UCSB's first round NCAA Tournament loss to Ohio State.

Go Gauchos!

#33 Orlando Johnson

UCSB Mens Basketball Recap-November

A video recap of the month of November for the Gauchos. They went 4-0 in that month and were playing good!

NCAA Tournament, UCSB Mens Basketball vs. Ohio State Buckeyes

On Friday night, a glorious season ended for the Big West Champion Gauchos. They lost to #2 seed Ohio State 68-51.

Even though the game was won by 17 points, there were times when this was a close ball game.

With UCSB down 13-3 with about 12 minutes to go, the Gauchos started to get some buckets. My MVP of the Game Greg Somogyi came in and had a bucket to make it an 8 point game. Then the "Big Somog" mad 1 of 2 free throws. After Somog made a rare free throw, Orlando Johnson got a tip in to make it 13-8. Then with 8:11 to go, UCSB would get the closest it would get all game after Greg Somogyi made a free throw, it was 14-13.

After that, the Buckeye's Jon Diebler (23 points, 7-12 3PFG) made 2 three pointers and Ohio State ended the half on a 16-4 run to make it a 30-17 lead.

With UCSB down and the Buckeyes looking to pull away in the second half, the Gauchos came out with lot's of energy. They cut the lead to 8, 32-24, with 17:05 to go. Then the Buckeyes took control, wait I mean Jon Diebler took control. Jon Diebler would make 5 second half 3 pointers as the Buckeyes would control the rest of the half.

The closest the Gauchos got again was when James Powell (11 points) made a three pointer with 11:42 to go.

The game saw the end of two Gaucho careers. First, senior Paul Roemer played his final game by playing 11 minutes. A great Gaucho also graduated as James Powell played his final game. He is first all-time in school three pointers and his percentage is in the Top 10. James once made #2 in a SportsCenter Top 10 Play Countdown. Thanks #4 Paul Roemer and #42 James

Powell.

Great season Gauchos and continue to get to the tournament in the coming years.

Go Gauchos!

Stats:

Attendance: 17,580

Game Played at: Bradley Center (Home of the NBA Milwaukee Bucks and Big East Marquette Golden Eagles)

Orlando Johnson drives past Evan Turner of Ohio State

Selection Sunday

The Gauchos have found out their first round match up in the NCAA Tournament. They will play #2 seed Ohio State in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The Gauchos are a #15 seed in the Midwest Region. Kansas is the top seed in that region. GO GAUCHOS! It will be a Friday game at the Bradley Center I believe.

GO GAUCHOS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Show some Big West Pride baby! As Dick Vitale would say. "It is going to be awesome baby!"

Video recap of the Big West Championship:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6JWIQChMFQ

UCSB Mens Basketball vs. Long Beach State 49ers

The greatest day for Gaucho basketball in 8 years. The Gauchos are going dancing for the 5th time in school history with a 69-64 win over Long Beach State.

The game was a classic with the two rivals in an intense atmosphere. But the hero was "Big Game" James Powell who made a 4 free throws in the final 28 seconds. He had 9 points for the contest.

The game almost slipped away from the Gauchos because with 5:09 to play, Long Beach took a 53-52 lead on a Greg Plater three pointer.

Orlando Johnson was the man to step up for the Gauchos. He scored 4 straight points to give the Gauchos a 56-53 lead. Long Beach answered the call and came right back after making two free throws.

Then Orlando Johnson made two free throws but Casper Ware (19 points) scorched a jumper to make it 58-57.

Orlando then scored again to make it 60-57. OJ had 20 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists, and 11-12 from the free throw line. He was MVP of the tournament and was on the All-Tournament Team. James Nunnally had 19 points and 6 rebounds and joined OJ on the All-Tournament Team.

Long Beach got back in it again after "Mr. Double-Double" T.J. Robinson swished a reverse lay-up. The score was 60-59.

With the Monson Maniacs and Gaucho Locos jumping and getting into the intense action, James Nunnally silenced the Beach crowd with a three pointer to push the lead to 4, 63-59.

After that, Casper Ware made a pair of free throws and T.J. Robinson made 1 of 2 free throws to make it 63-62 with 28 seconds to go.

So the Beach fouled James Powell and he made two free throws. Then with 10 seconds to go, Stephan Gilling lowered the elbow and was called for an offensive foul. Then Powell made 2 more free throws to make it 67-62. Then, "LAX Flight 21" Larry Anderson scored a lay-up with 2.8 ticks on the clock. Nunnally made two free throws and the fans stormed the court. Hundreds of happy Gauchos made the mad dash on to the court, including me.

Tomorrow at 3 p.m. UCSB will find out its NCAA Tournament seed on CBS. Go the ICA Building to enjoy the action with the Gauchos!

Go Gauchos!

The 2010 Men's Basketball Big West Champs! I am in the middle next to Will Brew.

Links to videos of the Championship Game:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Nhg6n4flGk

http://youtube.com/watch?v=Ag4UZzQxpwQ&feature=player_embedded

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tar3jTKf7Sw&playnext_from=TL&videos=fY3EL7OKEbU&playnext=1

UCSB Mens Basketball vs. UC Davis Aggies

A blowout, a nail bitter, it was a little bit of everything. The end result on the scoreboard is what mattered and the UCSB Gauchos defeated the UC Davis Aggies 76-62 in the Big West Semifinals.

The lead at hafltime was a whopping 31-11 after James Nunnallly hit a three at the buzzer. It looked like this game was over and it was time for the Aggies to get on the bus. Never say never though.

The Aggies got it down to five points multiple times in the second half. The final time it was at five points was on a Julian Welch jumper with 7 minutes to go.

James Powell (22 points) made sure this wouldn't be his last game. He had 10 points in a row at one time during the 2nd half. His best shot of the game was a fade away three pointer from the corner with no seconds on the shot clock. Also, James Powell tied the school record for most three pointers in UCSB history. "Big Game" James Powell was that tonight.

James Nunnally nearly had a double-double with 17 points and 9 rebounds. Orlando Johnson had 14 points. Will Brew Jr. had 9 points and 4 assists. Greg Somogyi had 7 rebounds and 3 blocks.

UCSB will play arch-rival Long Beach State in the Big West Conference Championship Game at 5 p.m. on ESPN2.

Go Gauchos! "Big Game" James Powell had 22 points