Candidates for Marshall's Next Head Basketball Coach

Here is a list of potential candidates that have been mentioned in multiple news stories:

Jeff Battle, assistant coach at Wake Forest University: Point guard at Marshall from 1981-85. Twenty plus years of assistant coaching experience.

Brian Poore, head coach West Virginia State: Former MU assistant to Greg White. Has a WVIAC title to his name at West Virginia State.

Bob Bolen, head coach Mountain State University: Two time NAIA national champion.

Steve Henson, assistant coach at UNLV: One of the top 25 assistant coaches in the country according to Rivals.com. Mike Hamrick was athletic director at UNLV

Buzz Peterson, head coach Appalachian State: His Mountaineers beat Marshall in the CIT. Former coach at Costal Carolina and Tennessee.

Jeff Boals, assistant coach at Ohio State: Former Marshall assistant under Greg White.

John Brannen, assistant coach Alabama: Played basketball at Marshall. Followed Anthony Grant (another former Billy Donovan assistant) from VCU to Alabama.

Geno Ford, head coach Kent State: Two postseason appearances in two years at Kent. Beat Tulsa in this years NIT.

Fran Fraschilla: Now a ESPN commentator Fraschilla has head coaching experience at Manhattan, St. John's and New Mexico.

Larry Harrison, assistant coach at West Virginia: Has worked with Huggins 11 season at Cincinnati and West Virginia, spending 2000-06 as Hartford's head coach in the interim.

Billy Kennedy, head coach Murray State: Won a NCAA tournament game this season, beating Vanderbilt in the first round.

Bobby Lutz: Fired as the head coach at Charlotte. Lutz, spent 12 years in North Carolina leading the 49ers to a mark of 70-42 and five NCAA appearances in C-USA before conference realignment. Since Charlotte joined the Atlantic 10 Lutz had gone 41 – 39 with two NIT appearances.

Pete Gillen: Former head coach at Xavier and most recently Virginia.

Mark Cline, assistant coach at Oklahoma: Two-time W.Va. State Player of the Year in basketball. Has followed Jeff Capel from VCU to Oklahoma.

Jeff Neubauer, head coach Eastern Kentucky: Neubauer has won 85 games and reached one NCAA Tournament at Eastern Kentucky. This season EKU won twenty games and participated in the CIT.

Bobby Gonzalez: Fired at Seton Hall after making this seasons NIT.

New Marshall Basketball Coach by Next Week?

From: http://www.wvmetronews.com/index.cfm?func=displayfullstory&storyid=36210

Since then, Marshall Athletic Director Mike Hamrick says he's talked to between 20 and 30 potential replacements for Jones. He was preparing to travel to Indianapolis on Wednesday to interview between seven and ten candidates.

After that, those numbers will be narrowed to between two and three finalists.

"We have a list and we have a very good list of head coaches, top assistant coaches that have shown interest in this job," Hamrick said on Wednesday's MetroNews Talkline.

Hamrick says his goal is to make a hire within the next week. "There's very few good Division I head basketball coaching jobs and this is a good job in a good conference."

Verdict in Donte Newsome Murder Trial

Jerel Garner was convicted of voluntary manslaughter and two additional felonies in relation to a July 5, 2008, shooting that killed former Marshall University football standout Donte Newsome.

Read the whole story here: http://www.herald-dispatch.com/news/x716517609/Garner-convicted-of-lesser-charge

Today's Marshall Sports News 3/31

From the Charleston Gazette, Searching for WVU AD, Herd and UC hoops coaches

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/todayssportscolumn/201003300891

From the Charleston Gazette, Herd begins first spring under Doc today

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201003300883

From the Charleston Gazette, As UCF embraces Jones, Herd looks for his successor

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201003300892

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Jones left for more sunshine, potential

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201003300910

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Herd's Holliday begins spring drills with an open mind

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201003300924

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Whiteside not locked in at Marshall or in NBA

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201003300023

From the Herald Dispatch, Marshall's Lynch lowest

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x578669454/Marshalls-Lynch-lowest

From the Herald Dispatch, Spring practice kicks off

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x578669468/Football-kicks-off

From the Herald Dispatch, Whiteside makes all-freshman team

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x578669482/Whiteside-makes-all-freshman-team

From the Herald Dispatch, Landon: Plenty of names to pick from for Hamrick

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x578669466/Plenty-of-names-to-pick-from-for-Hamrick

From the Herald Dispatch, Jones has Marshall plan for UCF team

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x578669460/Jones-has-Marshall-plan-for-UCF-team

From the Parthenon, Thundering anger

http://www.marshallparthenon.com/sports/thundering-anger-1.2206692

Spring Football Practice Starts Wednesday

SPRING PRACTICE SCHEDULE (subject to change)

#1Wednesday, March 31 3 p.m.
#2Friday, April 2 3 p.m.
#3 Saturday, April 3 9:15 a.m.
#4 Tuesday, April 6 3 p.m.
#5 Wednesday, April 7 3 p.m.
#6 Friday, April 9 3 p.m.
#7 Saturday, April 10 9:15 a.m.
#8 Tuesday, April 13 3 p.m.
#9 Wednesday, April 14 3 p.m.
#10 Friday, April 16 3 p.m.
#11 Saturday, April 17 9:15 a.m.
#12 Tuesday, April 20 3 p.m.
#13 Wednesday, April 21 3 p.m.
#14 Friday, April 23 3 p.m.
*-#15 Saturday, April 24 4 p.m.

Full Story: http://herdzone.cstv.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/033010aab.html

Tim Floyd to UTEP

From Yahoo Sports: http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/basketball/news?slug=ap-utep-floyd

Benedict Arnold, I mean Donnie Jones News

Click the link below to watch Donnie Jones introductory news conference at UCF. Please note any thing thrown at your computer screen will not actually hit Jones: http://all-access.cbssports.com/player.html?code=ucf&media=175965

Some news articles from Orlando, or as it is affectionately know “The Redneck Rivera”

From John Denton's Knights Insider, Jones Impressed with Blueprint for Success

http://ucfathletics.cstv.com/sports/m-baskbl/spec-rel/033010aaa.html

From the Orlando Sentinel, New UCF basketball coach Donnie Jones known as outgoing leader, strong recruiter

http://articles.orlandosentinel.com/2010-03-29/sports/os-ucf-hires-donnie-jones-0330-20100329_1_new-ucf-ucf-arena-conference-usa

From the Orlando Sentinel, Bianchi: Donnie Jones can create a splash for UCF basketball

http://articles.orlandosentinel.com/2010-03-29/sports/os-bianchi-donnie-jones-ucf-basketball_1_athletic-director-keith-tribble-ucf-basketball-ucf-coach-kirk-speraw

From the Orlando Sentinel, New UCF basketball coach Donnie Jones could be saving grace for athletic director Keith Tribble

http://articles.orlandosentinel.com/2010-03-29/sports/os-bianchi-donnie-jones-0330-20100329_1_athletic-director-keith-tribble-new-ucf-knights-fans

From UCF Today, Expect Up-Tempo Style From Basketball Jones

http://today.ucf.edu/blog/2010/03/29/expect-up-tempo-style-from-basketball-jones/

Marshall’s next head basketball coach

It is the Marshall Thundering Blogs opinion that Wake Forrest Associate Head Coach Jeff Battle will be Marshall’s next head basketball coach.

Battle makes to much sense, he fits every criteria Marshall typically looks for in a coach.

Battle has Marshall connections playing point guard for the Herd from 1982 – 1985. During that time Battle lead Marshall to consecutive NCAA tournament appearances.

Battle is a rising coach. Instead of being a coach on the rebound Battle would be a first time head coach. Historically, Marshall has not hired retreads. Mike Hamrick’s hiring of Doc Holliday illustrates this point. Instead of tabbing a coach with previous head coaching experience Hamrick chose Holliday who had been an assistant coach for over thirty years. Battle has been a assistant coach for 23 years.

Battle also has great credentials. While coaching at Wake Forest Battle has helped the Demon Deacons to six NCAA tournaments including a sweet 16 appearance in 2004. In 2008 FoxSports.com named Battle one of the top high-major assistant coaches in the country. BasketballScoop.com also tabbed him as a semifinalist for its Rising Star Coach of the Year Award in 2009.

Yes, this is a bit premature but after looking over various reports on potential candidates the Blog feels Battle will be our man.

Jeff Battle Wake Forest Profile: http://wakeforestsports.cstv.com/sports/m-baskbl/mtt/battle_jeff00.html

Today's Marshall Sports News 3/30

From the Charleston Gazette, Jones' departure adds twist to UCF rivalry

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201003290928

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Whiteside not locked in at Marshall or in NBA

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201003300023

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Dispelling a Jones/Hamrick NIT rumor

http://blogs.dailymail.com/marshall/2010/03/29/dispelling-a-joneshamrick-nit-rumor/

From the Herald Dispatch, Marshall losing Whiteside to NBA

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x578668996/No-Headline

From the Herald Dispatch, Landon: UCF deal too good for Jones to pass up

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x578668994/UCF-deal-too-good-for-Jones-to-pass-up

From the Herald Dispatch, Herd beats Louisville in tennis

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x578668988/Herd-beats-Louisville-in-tennis

From the Parthenon, Jones says 'Goodknight'

http://www.marshallparthenon.com/sports/jones-says-goodknight-1.2205533

From the Parthenon, Welcome to my personal Hell

http://www.marshallparthenon.com/sports/welcome-to-my-personal-hell-1.2205535

From the Parthenon, Loss of a good coach isn’t the end of the world

http://www.marshallparthenon.com/opinion/loss-of-a-good-coach-isn-t-the-end-of-the-world-1.2205516

Woody Woodrum names candidates

Woody Woodrum of the Herd Insider (http://www.goherd.com/) has listed possible candidates to repalce departing men's basketball coach Donnie Jones:

Names expected to be thrown out for a new coach would include Mike D'Antoni, currently the head coach of the New York Knicks after serving a similar position with the Phoenix Suns. D'Antoni was a point guard for the Herd in 1970-73.

Current top MU assistant Shawn Finney has head coaching experience, having led the Tulane program in Conference USA and worked for Tubby Smith at Tulsa, also a member of C-USA, and Kentucky. He is a native of Mullens, W.Va. and an alum of Fairmont State (W.Va.) University.

The current coach at Tulsa is Doug Wojcik, a native of Wheeling, W.Va. and an alum of Wheeling Central Catholic High School and the Naval Academy, where he played with David Robinson.

Jeff Battle is currently an assistant coach at Wake Forest University in the ACC and is also a former Marshall point guard from 1981-85.

A former Marshall assistant is now the head coach at West Virginia State University in Institute, W.Va. in Brian Poore. Poore worked at Marshall for White and has coached the Yellow Jackets to WVIAC titles in the state's premier Division II league.

Another state coach with a great deal of success is Bob Bolen at Mountain State University in Beckley, W.Va. The NAIA school has won a national championship under Bolen and is a yearly participant in the NAIA National Tournament in Kansas City, Mo., where Marshall won its only national championship in basketball under Coach Cam Henderson in 1946-47. Bolen was named the NAIA National Coach of the Year this season.

A coach Marshall Director of Athletics Mike Hamrick, hired in the summer of 2009, is familiar with is current UNLV assistant Steve Henson. Henson is in his sixth year as assistant coach at UNLV, where Hamrick was A.D. before returning to his alma mater last summer. In the summer of 2007, he was recognized as one of the top 25 assistant coaches in the country by Rivals.com. Henson, a six-season NBA veteran, came to UNLV to work for current Rebels head coach Lon Kruger in the spring of 2004 after spending one year as an assistant coach at the University of South Florida. Prior to working at USF, he spent time as an assistant coach as well as an advance scout for the NBA's Atlanta Hawks from 2001-03 working under Kruger and then Terry Stotts. Henson, 41, also worked for Kruger at the University of Illinois as an assistant coach in 1999-2000. A four-year starter at Kansas State University from 1986-90, Henson was a two-time honorable mention All-American and earned All-Big Eight Conference honors as a junior and senior. He played in the NBA for the Milwaukee Bucks, who drafted Henson in the second round out of K-State in 1990, as well as the Atlanta Hawks, the Charlotte Hornets, the Portland Trail Blazers and the Detroit Pistons in a six-year career. Like D'Antoni, Henson also played in the Italian League, then later the pro leagues in Greece, for three more seasons.

Another coach in the mix maybe Buzz Peterson, the head coach at Appalachian State. Peterson coached ASU from 1996-2000, then returned this season to lead the Mountaineers to the semi-finals of the CIT, falling in Boone, N.C. to Pacific. Moving from the SC to C-USA would definitely be a step up in prestige and competition for Peterson, who also was the head coach of the Tennessee Volunteers and worked with the NBA team in Charlotte.

Former UTEP and Kentucky coach Billy Gillispie may hear his name come up at Marshall, but is currently one of the front-runners for the vacant Houston Cougars job in Conference USA, following the resignation of long-time UH coach Tom Penders. Penders led the Cougars to the C-USA title this season, winning four games in the tournament including knocking off the No. 2-seeded Memphis Tigers and the No. 1-seeded UTEP Miners, earning Houston's first trip to the NCAA Tournament since 1992.

Pete Gillen had success at both Xavier and Virginia, and has done numerous games over the past few seasons in Conference USA for CBS College Sports Network, while Tim Floyd, formerly of USC, recruited Huntington, W.Va. for O.J. Mayo who spent a season with the Trojans before moving onto the NBA and the Memphis Grizzlies.

Full Post: http://www.goherd.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=217:donnie-jones-to-become-ucf-head-coach-leaving-marshall&catid=13:featured-news

3/29 Donte Newsome Trial Update

Both the defense and prosecution rest in Donte Newsome's murder trial, real the whole story here:

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/news/briefs/x879457470/Prosecution-rests-in-Garner-murder-trial

WVU fans keep it classy......

From the The Daily Athenaeum, Multiple fires, couch burnings keep authorities busy after win

http://www.thedaonline.com/news/multiple-fires-couch-burnings-keep-authorities-busy-after-win-1.1267509

Chris Royal Traded to Tulsa

Former Marshall defensive back Chris Royal was traded from the Iowa Barnstormers to the Tulsa Talons last Saturday for future considerations. Royal was due to arrive in Tulsa yesterday but was placed on the refused to report list. I am not 100% up to date on my Arena Football League free agent rules but I am pretty sure Royal is now a free agent. Royal could end up on another Arena League team or might find himself in a semi-pro indoor football league (ex, old Huntington Heroes).

AFL transaction report 3/27: http://arenafootball.com.ismmedia.com/ISM3/std-content/repos/Top/Stats/AFL_Transactions_3-27-10.pdf

AFL transaction report 3/28: http://arenafootball.com.ismmedia.com/ISM3/std-content/repos/Top/Stats/AFL_Transactions_3-28-10.pdf

Herald Dispatch: Hamrick confirms Jones to UCF, Whiteside to NBA?

Link for the whole story: http://www.herald-dispatch.com/news/briefs/x1101259517/Reports-Donnie-Jones-to-UCF

Marshall athletic director Mike Hamrick said Monday morning that Jones has taken the job at the University of Central Florida, a Thundering Herd rival in Conference USA.......

Marshall's search for a new coach begins immediately.

"We want to do it as quickly as possible, but still make sure it doesn't affect your decision," Hamrick said. "You want to make a good decision."

Whiteside, according to sources, made the decision prior to learning that Jones was leaving........

FOXSports.com has spoken to several NBA executives and most have said that Whiteside will likely be taken somewhere in the NBA lottery due to his potential, the report said.

Herd's Whiteside to Turn Pro, According to Reports

From WOWKTV.com: http://wowktv.com/story.cfm?func=viewstory&storyid=77469

HUNTINGTON -- Call it a double-dose of bad news for the Marshall University basketball program.

Hours after rumors began circulating that Donnie Jones will step down as the Herd's head coach to take the same position at the University of Central Florida, MU may be losing its freshman sensation.

Jeff Goodman of FoxSports.com is reporting that Hassan Whiteside will enter this year's NBA Draft, foregoing his final three years of college eligibility.

Whiteside averaged 13.1 points, 8.9 rebounds and 5.4 blocks in his first year for the Herd.
In just one season, he broke the school's career record for blocks by a player.

ESPN's Chad Ford lists him as the 10th-best prospect in the 2010 draft, while NBADraft.net has him 11th.

Draft Express ranks him 18th.

Why is Donnie Jones Leaving, Look in the Mirror

I typically don’t provide my own commentary on the Blog but Donnie Jones decision to leave for UCF and our fan bases reaction has elicited strong feelings from me.

What a odd situation this is, Jones leaving Marshall for a school in the same conference. Yes, UCF has better facilities and more money (which I will talk about later) but why leave your home state and players for a lateral move? I just don’t get it and I know the rest of Herd Country is confused too. We all laughed at West Virginia University when Rich Rodriguez left for Michigan but now we know how it feels.

Why would Jones go? The only reason I can think of is money, and that is why this is our fault. Marshall fans and alumni can have a HUGE impact on Herd athletics but most turn away. The Big Green (Marshall’s official athletic fundraising arm) provides money to cover our athletic departments scholarship cost. Scholarships cost the athletic department just over five million dollars a year. As of last year the Big Green only received enough donations to cover 1.2 million of that bill. Marshall University is near the bottom of C-USA donors with a little over 2,000 Big Green members. East Carolina, who leads C-USA in athletic donors has over 16,000 members.

Now your asking “but what does covering scholarship cost have to do with Donnie Jones leaving for UCF”?

If the Big Green were capable of covering scholarship cost Marshall Athletics would be able to re-direct the money they use for scholarships to other needs, like a raise for our basketball coach. Most of us don’t realize that alumni can have a bigger impact on Marshall than the Herd’s starting quarterback. For just $50 a year YOU can help Marshall play for championships.

So why you are pointing fingers at Donnie Jones, Mike Hamrick, and others in the athletic department for Jones departure take a long look in the mirror. We could prevent this from ever happening again.

Link to join the Big Green: http://herdzone.cstv.com/sports/big-green/mars-big-green-body.html

And in case you are wondering I have been a Big Green member (Green Buffalo Level) since Mike Hamrick’s first day on the job and regret not doing it sooner.

Today's Marshall Sports News 3/29

From the Charleston Gazette, Herd's Jones reported heading to UCF

http://www.wvgazette.com/latest/201003290228

From the Charleston Daily Mail, National media reports Jones headed to UCF

http://blogs.dailymail.com/marshall/2010/03/29/national-media-reports-jones-headed-to-ucf/

From the Herald Dispatch, Reports: Donnie Jones to UCF

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/news/briefs/x1101259517/Reports-Donnie-Jones-to-UCF

From the Herald Dispatch, Four-run eighth inning gets Tulane past Marshall

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x1700320741/Four-run-eighth-inning-gets-Tulane-past-Marshall

From the Herald Dispatch, Herd's Kerns second at Ball St. Intercollegiate

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1700320837/Herds-Kerns-second-at-Ball-St-Intercollegiate

Herd's Jones reported heading to UCF

From: http://www.wvgazette.com/latest/201003290228

Marshall basketball Donnie Jones interviewed Sunday at Conference USA rival Central Florida, the Gazette has confirmed, and has reportedly accepted the job.

FoxSports.com, citing "a source also in the mix for the position," reported Jones' move just after midnight today. Jones would take over for Kirk Speraw, who was fired after 17 years in the Orlando school.

Randy Burnside, Marshall's assistant athletic director for media relations, could not confirm anything more than rumors at 8:30 a.m.

FIU Running Back Kendall Berry Murdered

Florida International running back Kendall Berry was stabbed to death late Thursday night. Miami-Dade police said the 22-year-old junior from Haines City, Fla. was involved in an argument with one or possibly more individuals outside the front doors of the school’s rec center — one of the spots where the football team trains. Several witnesses to the 9 p.m. incident were being interviewed, Miami-Dade Police Detective Javier Baez said.

Current Marshall offensive coordinator Bill Legg was Berry’s offensive coordinator at FIU last season.

The thoughts and prayers of the Marshall Thundering Blog are with Berry’s family, friends, and FIU community.

Ahmad Bradshaw feeling 100% after surgery

From the New York Daily News:
http://www.nydailynews.com/sports/football/giants/2010/03/25/2010-03-25_umenyiora_says_he_wont_be_a_problem.html

RB Ahmad Bradshaw said he feels "10 times better" after offseason surgery to put screws into fractures in both feet and to clean out his right ankle.

Craig Ratanamorn Interview

Over at the Buried Athlete blog Mitchell Levin has posted a interview with former Marshall kicker Craig Ratanamorn. Click the link to read:

http://buriedathlete.blogspot.com/2010/03/craig-ratanamorn-interview-marshall.html

3/26, Donte Newsome Trial Update

Today's Herald Dispatch artical about the Donte Newsome murder trial: http://www.herald-dispatch.com/news/x1700319287/No-Headline

Today's Marshall Sports News 3/26

From the Herald Dispatch, Scooter Shreve dies at 80

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x1101259289/Scooter-Shreve-dies-at-80

From the Herald Dispatch, Herd baseball team on road at Tulane

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x879457094/Herd-baseball-team-on-road-at-Tulane

From the Herald Dispatch, Jones says he hasn't heard from anyone

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x879457053/Jones-says-he-hasnt-heard-from-anyone

Mark Cann Hometown Article

Mark Cann got some love from his hometown newspaper, the Spartanburg Herald Journal, on Tuesday. Jason Glimer wrote a feature about Cann pulling double duty on Marshall’s football and baseball teams. Click the link below to read.

http://www.goupstate.com/article/20100323/NEWS/100329843/1088/sports?Title=Landrum-s-Cann-returns-to-multitasking-at-Marshall&tc=ar

Donte Newsome Murder Trial Links

I have noticed a influx of visitors looking for information on Donte Newsome’s murder trial. Below I have linked articles from the Herald Dispatch detailing all three days of the trial.

Trial Begins / Jury Selection, 3/23: http://www.herald-dispatch.com/news/x2086852247/Jury-selection-begins-today-in-shooting-death-of-football-player

Trials second day, 3/24: http://www.herald-dispatch.com/news/x2086852701/Both-sides-dispute-cause-of-shooting

Trials third day, 3/25: http://www.herald-dispatch.com/news/x1700318767/Witnesses-accounts-differ-at-trial

Today's Marshall Sports News 3/25

From the Charleston Gazette, Herd country

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201003241119

From the Charleston Gazette, Jones mentioned for UCF vacancy

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201003241124

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Barbee keeps the C-USA coaching carousel turning

http://blogs.dailymail.com/marshall/2010/03/24/barbee-keeps-the-c-usa-coaching-carousel-turning/

From the Herald Dispatch, Witnesses' accounts differ at trial

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/news/x1700318767/Witnesses-accounts-differ-at-trial

From the Herald Dispatch, Gomez powers Herd past Ohio

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x1700318859/Gomez-powers-Herd-past-Ohio

From the Herald Dispatch, Landon: Herd lost its edge on climb into postseason

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x1700318853/Herd-lost-its-edge-on-climb-into-postseason

From the Herald Dispatch, Openings fill fast for Pennington bowling

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x1700318877/No-Headline

From the Herald Dispatch, Marshall making Green-White plans

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x1700318863/Marshall-making-Green-White-plans

From the Herald Dispatch, Softball team drops two games

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x1700318865/Softball-team-drops-two-games

From the Herald Dispatch, Barbee leaving UTEP to coach Auburn

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x1700318831/No-Headline

Marshall Basketball Recruiting Targets

From Chuck McGill’s Daily Mail column: http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201003231054

Until then, keep an eye on these names as potential future Herd hoopsters:

Jarvis Davis - A 6-1 guard from Hargrave Military Academy who seemed all but a lock to go to Charlotte until Bobby Lutz was fired last week. In addition to the Herd and Niners, Davis is getting looks from Big XII schools Nebraska and Texas Tech, as well as the Missouri Valley's Wichita State.

Dennis Mavin - A 6-2 combo guard from Gainesville, Fla., who transferred from Eastside to The Rock School for his senior season. Mavin competed in the North Central Florida All-Star Game last week, where he scored 23 points, grabbed eight rebounds, dished out five assists and hit 4-of-7 shots from behind the 3-point line.

Kenyon McNeaill - A 6-foot guard who just led Conway (Ark.) High School to the Class 7A state championship. McNeaill scored just 1 point in the title game after he sprained his shooting wrist in the semifinals. McNeaill has Marshall, UAB and Seton Hall leading for his services.

Gorgui Dieng - This is a name familiar to Herd recruitniks. Dieng is a 6-10, 210-pounder who arrived at Huntington Prep this year from Senegal, Africa. It is widely reported that it's a two-horse race for Dieng's services: Louisville and Marshall.

Expect Jones to go hard after Dieng in the coming weeks, however, to persuade the lanky shot blocker to stay in Huntington.

Donnie Jones: Whiteside 50 – 50 on going pro

From Chuck McGill’s Daily Mail column: http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201003231054

Whiteside's first basket against Appalachian State in the CIT was a slam dunk. For him, going pro isn't.

"Right now he's 50-50," Jones said. "There's a chance he's going to come back. He's just going to take this week, the rest of Spring Break, take it off and unwind and enjoy time home with his mom."

Today's Marshall Sports News 3/24

From the Charleston Gazette, Sour finish marred Herd's solid year

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201003230977

From the Charleston Gazette, Trial begins in death of ex-Marshall player

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/201003240306

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Herd coach doesn't take a break

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201003231054?page=2&build=cache

From the Herald Dispatch, Jones looks forward to next year

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x2086852829/Jones-looks-forward-to-next-year

From the Herald Dispatch, MU gives No. 1 team a run for its money

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x2086852827/MU-gives-No-1-team-a-run-for-its-money

From the Herald Dispatch, Herd tennis has two matches out west

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x2086852833/Herd-tennis-has-two-matches-out-west

From the Herald Dispatch, Both sides dispute cause of shooting

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/news/x2086852701/Both-sides-dispute-cause-of-shooting

Donte Newsome Murder Trial Begins

The trial of Jerel Addison Garner, who is accused of murdering former Marshall football player Donte Newsome began today in Huntington. To read about the trial follow this link: http://www.herald-dispatch.com/news/x2086852247/Jury-selection-begins-today-in-shooting-death-of-football-player

Baseball: Herd takes on #1 UVA

Marshall baseball is visiting the University of Virgnina today for a game against the #1 ranked Cavaliers. First pitch is at 5pm, follow the game on Game Tracker here: http://herdzone.cstv.com/gametracker/launch/gt_mbasebl.html?event=839856&school=mars&sport=mbasebl&camefrom=&startschool=&

Today's Marshall Sports News 3/23

From the Charleston Gazette, Appalachian State ousts Herd

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201003220904

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Huge deficit too much for Herd to overcome in CIT

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201003220933

From the Herald Dispatch, U season ends with loss to ASU

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x2086852379/MUs-season-ends-with-80-72-loss-to-App-State

From the Herald Dispatch, Herd beaten in all phases

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x2086852299/Herd-beaten-in-all-phases

From the Herald Dispatch, NCAA rejects Memphis' appeal of vacated wins

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x2086852297/NCAA-rejects-Memphis-appeal-of-vacated-wins

From the Herald Dispatch, Landon: Marshall did not show up to play

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x2086852295/Marshall-did-not-show-up-to-play

From the Herald Dispatch, Herd's Jackson first in Hurricane triple jump

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x2086851901/Herds-Jackson-first-in-Hurricane-triple-jump

From the Parthenon, Herd take a seat from the CIT

http://www.marshallparthenon.com/sports/herd-take-a-seat-from-the-cit-1.2198230

CIT Quarterfinals Appalachian State @ Marshall

Where: Henderson Center

When: 7pm

Coverage: TV: Huntington Radio: 93.7 The Dawg, Live audio internet feed at http://www.marshall.edu/wmul/, PPV online broadcast at www.FoxCollegeSports.com.

Tickets: Fans can purchase tickets online at www.HerdZone.com or by calling 1-800-THE-HERD. Tickets can also be purchased in person by visiting the Cam Henderson Center Ticket Office prior to tip-off Monday. The Marshall Ticket Office is open Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tickets are $20 for lower reserved seats, $11 for upper reserved, $10 for general admission and Marshall Students can secure tickets for only $4 with a valid student ID.

*Notes*

Marshall is the number one overall seed in the tournament and will host a semifinal game if it advances. The semifinal game against a TBD opponent will be on Wednesday, March 24. Tickets for a semifinal game will go on sale Tuesday morning should Marshall advance.

Chase Fischer is THE MAN

From Chuck Landon’s column on Marshall basketball verbal commitment Chase Fisher: http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x2086850981/Ripleys-Fischer-coming-to-beat-WVU

I told him, 'That's my school'," said Fischer with a grin. "Everywhere I go that's what I do. I wear a Marshall shirt, a Marshall hat. ... something. Everywhere I go I represent Marshall."

Then, Gibbons asked why Fischer wasn't going to the "state school," obviously referring to West Virginia University.

"Ah, no," said Fischer. "WVU? I hate WVU. I can't stand WVU. I'm looking forward to beating them and shutting all these people up and the stuff they're telling me."

Tom Penders out at Houston

Looks like Houston basketball head coach Tom Penders is going to resign. Here are a few links on the subject:

From the Houston Chronicle, Dancing not enough to save Penders’ job:

http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/sports/college/6923499.html

From the KHOU.com, 11 Sports Exclusive: Top candidates to replace Tom Penders at UH:

http://www.khou.com/sports/Top-candidates-to-replace-Tom-Penders-at-UH-88801927.html

*UPDATE* Darius Marshall Participates at Marshall’s Pro Day

Turns out Darius Marshall did participate at Marshall’s pro day, read the report here:
http://blogs.nfl.com/2010/03/21/marshalls-marshall-impressive-during-position-drills/

Today's Marshall Sports News 3/22

From the Charleston Gazette, Appy State latest foe to test Herd's 3-point defense

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201003210495

From the Charleston Herd would reap benefits from CIT championship

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201003210525

From the Herald Dispatch, Lipton's 4 hits help lift MU over LeMoyne, 11-7

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x2086851838/Liptons-4-hits-help-lift-MU-over-LeMoyne-11-7

From the Herald Dispatch, Merthie poised to set record for most games played at Marshall

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x2086851840/Merthie-poised-to-set-record-for-most-games-played-at-Marshall

From the Herald Dispatch, Herd gets tuned-up for ASU

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x2086851842/Herd-gets-tuned-up-for-ASU

From the Herald Dispatch, Herd golfers struggle in S.C.

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x2086851478/Herd-golfers-struggle-in-S-C

From the Herald Dispatch, Chuck Landon: Jones is deserving of spoils of victory

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x2086851472/Jones-is-deserving-of-spoils-of-victory

From the Herald Dispatch, Telles homer earns Herd split with UAB

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x2086851480/Telles-homer-earns-Herd-split-with-UAB

Clearing up some confusion

There has been a lot of talk today about my post on Darius Marshall’s pro day absence. Let me describe how that post came about.

On Thursday the Herald Dispatch ran an article about Marshall’s pro day. The author (Anthony Hanshew) listed a number of former Marshall players who participated at the pro day but left out Darius Marshall. I figured that Hanshew might have failed to mention Marshall so I emailed a Marshall media contact of mine this exact question “Any word on why Darius Marshall skipped Marshall's pro-day yesterday?” The media contact replied with a simple “No” and a related follow up which I will not share.

Now it is entirely possible my contact read the same article I did and assumed Marshall was not present. It is also entirely possible they know Marshall was not in attendance. Either way, with the information at hand I felt comfortable posting about Marshall’s absence.

To clear up this matter I have emailed Anthony Hanshew at the Herald Dispatch to see if Marshall was at the pro day.

As every long time Marshall Thundering Blog reader knows I just post the news. This is not a place for my personal speculation or opinion. Over 75% of my post are simple links to Marshall athletic news.

Thanks for your patients while I get to the bottom of this and I will be back next week.

CIT First Round Summary

Fox Sports has written a great summary of the CIT tournament first round, follow the link below to read:

http://www.foxnews.com/sports/2010/03/19/cit-round-summary/

Today's Marshall Sports News 3/19

From the Charleston Gazette, UC's White steps down

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/201003181044

From the Charleston Gazette, Appalachian State up next for Thundering Herd

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201003181035

From the Charleston Daily Mail, UC's White gives up coaching for camps, speaking

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/201003190060

From the Herald Dispatch, Former MU coach White resigns at UC

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x2086850478/Former-MU-coach-White-resigns-at-UC

From the Herald Dispatch, Next: Appalachian State

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x2086850494/Next-Appalachian-State

From the Herald Dispatch, Marshall baseball team plays host to LeMoyne College

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x2086850492/Marshall-baseball-team-plays-host-to-LeMoyne-College

From the Herald Dispatch, Herd set to host three game series vs. UAB

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x2086850496/Herd-set-to-host-three-game-series-vs-UAB

From the Parthenon, Herd rival reunion tour to come early

http://www.marshallparthenon.com/sports/herd-rival-reunion-tour-to-come-early-1.2195806

From the Parthenon, Appalachian matchup

http://www.marshallparthenon.com/sports/appalachian-matchup-1.2195804

Darius Marshal not at Marshall’s Pro Day

You probably already read the Herald Dispatch’s article on Marshall’s NFL pro day at Joan C. Edwards stadium. One noticeable abscens from Marshall’s pro day was Darius Marshall. Marshall has distanced him self from the program since Mark Snyder's resignation, barely playing in the Little Cezars Pizza Bowl, and declaring for the NFL draft. You have to imagine the rift runs very deep if Marshall did not take an opportunity to improve his draft stock.

From the Herald Dispatch, MU's NFL hopefuls audition for scouts at Pro Day - http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x2086849884/MUs-NFL-hopefuls-audition-for-scouts-at-Pro-Day

CIT Update

Wednesday's Results:

Appalachian State 93, Harvard 71

Missouri State 87, Middle Tennessee State 79

Northern Colorado 81, Portland 73

Pacific 86, Loyola Marymount 76

Thursday's Game:

Southern Mississippi (20-13) @ Louisiana Tech (23-10) 8:00 (EST)

Monday March 22: QUARTERFINALS:

Appalachian State (23-10) @ Marshall (24-9)

Fairfield (23-10) @ Creighton (17-15)

Pacific (21-11) @ Northern Colorado (25-7)

Missouri State (21-12) vs. S. Mississippi (20-13) or La Tech (23-10)

NOTE: Winner of the Thursday's Southern Mississippi vs. Louisiana Tech will determine site of the this game. If Southern Miss wins Missouri State will be on the road. If Louisiana Tech wins Missouri State will be at home.

Semifinals will be Wednesday March 24th while the final will be played on Tuesday March 30th.

CIT Quarterfinals Appalachian State @ Marshall

From the CIT Web Site: http://www.collegeinsider.com/tournament/2010.html

Monday March 22: QUARTERFINALS

Appalachian State (23-10) @ Marshall (24-9)

Today's Marshall Sports News 3/18

From the Charleston Gazette, Unlikely sources gave Herd boost in CIT opener

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201003171035

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Herd’s CIT opener draws record crowd

http://blogs.dailymail.com/marshall/2010/03/17/herds-cit-opener-draws-record-crowd/

From the Herald Dispatch, Marshall looks to regain energy

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x2086849882/Marshall-looks-to-regain-its-lost-energy

From the Herald Dispatch, Landon: Holliday rushes to get ready for 2010

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x2086849878/Holliday-rushes-to-get-ready-for-2010

From the Herald Dispatch, C-USA again picks Herd's Kissell as player of week

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x2086849886/C-USA-again-picks-Herds-Kissell-as-player-of-week

From the Herald Dispatch, MU's NFL hopefuls audition for scouts at Pro Day

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x2086849884/MUs-NFL-hopefuls-audition-for-scouts-at-Pro-Day

CIT Update

Tuesday’s Results

Fairfield 101, George Mason 86

Marshall 90, Western Carolina 88

Creighton 89, South Dakota 78

Today’s Games

Harvard (21-7) @ Appalachian State (22-10) 7:00 (EST)

Middle Tennessee State (19-13) @ Missouri State (20-12) 8:05 (EST)

Portland (21-10) @ Northern Colorado (24-7) 9:05 (EST)

Pacific (20-11) @ Loyola Marymount (18-14) 10:35 (EST)

Today's Marshall Sports News 3/17

From the Charleston Gazette, Technically, Herd wins

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201003161153

From the Charleston Gazette, WVU at Herd: Friday, Sept. 10 on ESPN

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201003160628

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Friday Coal Bowl leads slate for Herd

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201003161135

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Technical foul saves Herd

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201003170008

From the Herald Dispatch, Marshall survives Western Carolina

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1101258320/Marshall-survives-Western-Carolina

From the Herald Dispatch, MU, Holliday face daunting schedule

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x879456102/Marshall-Holliday-face-daunting-schedule

From the Herald Dispatch, Landon: Whiteside lets down in the CIT

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x879456100/Landon-Whiteside-lets-down-in-the-CIT

From the Herald Dispatch, Welcome to March Madness, Thundering Herd fans

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x2086849164/Welcome-to-March-Madness-Thundering-Herd-fans

From the Herald Dispatch, Tickets for next game go on sale Wednesday

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x2086849160/No-Headline

From the Herald Dispatch, Coaches honor Herd's Wilkerson, Whiteside

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x2086849162/Coaches-honor-Herds-Wilkerson-Whiteside

From the Parthenon, Scratching one out

http://www.marshallparthenon.com/sports/scratching-one-out-1.2193484

From the Parthenon, For the love of the game

http://www.marshallparthenon.com/life/for-the-love-of-the-game-1.2193379

From the Parthenon, Take the opportunity of postseason to root on the herd

http://www.marshallparthenon.com/opinion/take-the-opportunity-of-postseason-to-root-on-the-herd-1.2193368

2010 MARSHALL UNIVERSITY FOOTBALL SCHEDULE

http://herdzone.cstv.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/031610aab.html

Thursday September 2 at Ohio State

Friday September 10 WEST VIRGINIA 7 p.m. ESPN

Saturday September 18 at Bowling Green

Saturday September 25 OHIO

Saturday October 2 at Southern Miss

Wednesday October 13 UCF 8 p.m. ESPN

Saturday October 23 at ECU

Saturday October 30 UTEP

Saturday November 6 at UAB

Saturday November 13 MEMPHIS

Saturday November 20 at SMU

Saturday November 27 TULANE

Chris Royal to Iowa Barnstormers

Former Marshall defensive back Chris Royal has been assigned to the Iowa Barnstormers (AFL). Iowa is part of the new 16 team Arena Football League. Royal has previous experience in indoor football, playing for the Huntington Heroes (AIFA) , Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Pioneers (AF2), and Lexington Horseman (AF2). Royal was named the AF2 rookie of the year in 2007 with Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, recording 14 interceptions that season.

Chris Royal transaction report: http://arenafootball.com.ismmedia.com/ISM3/std-content/repos/Top/Stats/AFL_Transactions_3-11-10.pdf

Chris Royal YouTube video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3DSR8M4S2RA

The View from Western Carolina

From the Ashville Citizen Times, WCU looks to add to great year in CollegeInsider.com tourney

http://www.citizen-times.com/article/20100316/SPORTS/303160033/1002

From the Ashville Citizen Times, WCU looks to add to great year in CollegeInsider.com tourney

http://www.citizen-times.com/article/20100316/SPORTS/303160033/1002/sports/WCU-men-set-to-play-Marshall-in-tourney

UCF fires men's basketball coach Kirk Speraw

Kirk Speraw, men's head basketball coach at Central Florida, has been fired. Read the whole story here: http://www.orlandosentinel.com/sports/os-ucf-fires-kirk-speraw-031510,0,2821622.story

Today's Marshall Sports News 3/16

From the Charleston Gazette, RPI says CIT just as competitive as CBI

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201003151001

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Marshall's Miller ready to face former teammates

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201003150981

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Wilkerson large reason why Herd still playing

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201003150986

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Lutz might not play in CIT first round tonight

http://blogs.dailymail.com/marshall/

From the Herald Dispatch, W. Carolina a familiar foe for Miller

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x2086848682/Western-Carolina-a-familiar-foe-for-Cam-Miller

From the Herald Dispatch, Landon: No doubt about it: MU got snubbed

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x2086848680/Landon-No-doubt-about-it-MU-got-snubbed

From the Herald Dispatch, 16 teams to battle it out to win CIT

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x2086848678/16-teams-to-battle-it-out-to-win-CIT

From the Parthenon, Assesing the ‘CIT’uation

http://www.marshallparthenon.com/sports/assesing-the-cit-uation-1.2192401

No CIT Bracket

For every Herd fan wanting a CIT bracket:

*There is no set bracket. The CIT uses the old NIT model of determining future round opponents following the conclusion of the previous round*

Source: http://www.collegeinsider.com/tournament/2010_schedule.html

Zach Wellman to Walk – On at Marshall

Spring Valley (WV) running back / linebacker Zach Wellman has decided to walk on at Marshall University. Wellman started at running back for Spring Valley last season and racked up 625 yards on 117 carries with 9 touchdowns. At 6,1, 228 pounds Wellman projects as a linebacker or fullback at the college level.

As previously posted Wellman is joining Spring Valley kicker George Brody, who is also walking on at Marshall.

Wellman’s Max Preps profile: http://www.maxpreps.com/athletes/_xtjMo0UWUKRDidc7NllfA/football-fall-09/profile-zach-wellman.htm

Wellman’s YouTube.com video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iyBxSvPR6Hs

Higher ed bill passes

The much talked about higher education bill was passed last week.

Senate Bill 480 retracts some of the powers given to Marshall and WVU back in 2005, when the Legislature gave new freedoms to the state's two largest universities by removing several oversight provisions from the Higher Education Policy Commission. The schools' governing boards were given authority to create new academic programs, raise tuition and fees and approve operating and capital budgets.

Read the whole story here: http://www.herald-dispatch.com/news/x2086847982/Higher-ed-bill-passes-easily

Today's Marshall Sports News 3/15

From the Charleston Gazette, final observations from the C-USA tournament

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201003140624

From the Charleston Gazette, Herd playing host to Western Carolina in CIT opener

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201003140636

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Marshall gets top overall seed in CIT

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201003140662

From the Herald Dispatch, Herd invited to play in CIT

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x2086848276/Herd-invited-to-CIT-tourney

From the Herald Dispatch, Miners score in 7th to edge Herd

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x2086848302/Miners-score-in-7th-to-edge-Herd

From the Herald Dispatch, Spring Valley trio playing football at next level

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x2086848280/Spring-Valley-trio-playing-football-at-next-level

Out For The Week

The Marshall TRhundering Blog will not be updated until Monday March 15th.

Jamus Martin to Chicago Rush

Former Marshall defensive end Jamus Martin has been assigned to the Chicago Rush (AFL). Chicago is part of the new 16 team Arena Football League. Martin has previous experience in indoor football, playing for the Huntington Heroes (AIFA) and Lexington Horseman (AF2).

Today the Rush opened up a three day mini-camp. The AFL season kicks off April 2nd.

Jamus Martin transaction report: http://arenafootball.com.ismmedia.com/ISM3/std-content/repos/Top/Stats/AFL_Transactions_3-10-10.pdf

Jamus Martin YouTube video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e2e4tySY81w

Men's BB: Marshall at Tulsa

Where: BOK Center, Tulsa Oklahoma (C-USA Tournament)

When: 7:30pm EST

Coverage: TV: CBS College Sports Network, Huntington Radio: 93.7 The Dawg.

*Notes*

Winner will play the winner of UTEP vs UCF Friday @ 6:30pm EST

Football: Marshall adds late commitment Anthony Fletcher

Head football coach Doc Holliday has added a late commitment to the 2010 recruiting class. Anthony Fletcher, a 6,3, 200 pound linebacker from Amherst County High School (VA) is Marshall's latest signee. During his senior season Fletcher recoded over 90 tackles and two sacks. Fletcher played a number of roles for Amherst last season. He ran the ball four times for nine yards and served as the teams punter, punting 23 times with a 38.7 yard average and nine punts inside the twenty.

MaxPreps.com profile: http://www.maxpreps.com/athletes/AL-b_McXDkOezxi_daGSZw/football-fall-09/profile-anthony-fletcher.htm

Today's Marshall Sports News 3/11

From the Charleston Gazette, Wilkerson, Lutz anxious to put '09 tourney loss behind them

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201003101025

From the Charleston Gazette, Herd vs. Tulsa tonight

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201003101008

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Marshall returns to basketball glory days

http://www.dailymail.com/News/201003100850

From the Charleston Daily Mail, C-USA Tournament isn't all about Memphis now

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201003110130

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Last leg of hike up mountain for Herd

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201003110128

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Late football commitment

http://blogs.dailymail.com/marshall/

From the Herald Dispatch, Marshall to face Tulsa

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x1543286578/Golden-Hurricane-reels-in-Rice

From the Herald Dispatch, McCann: Only one way into NCAA for Herd

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x1543286564/Only-one-way-into-NCAA-for-Herd

From the Herald Dispatch, Marshall adds late recruit from Virginia

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x1543286580/No-Headline

From the Herald Dispatch, Landon: C-USA has noticed a change in Wilkerson

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x1543286556/C-USA-has-noticed-a-change-in-Wilkerson

From the Parthenon, Marshall gaining high praise from conference foes

http://www.marshallparthenon.com/sports/marshall-gaining-high-praise-from-conference-foes-1.2188157

From the Parthenon, Herd to face tough competition at Tennessee Tournament

http://www.marshallparthenon.com/sports/herd-to-face-tough-competition-at-tennessee-tournament-1.2188150

From the Parthenon, C-USA’s top scorer does it old school

http://www.marshallparthenon.com/sports/c-usa-s-top-scorer-does-it-old-school-1.2188137

From the Parthenon, Herd headed toward a Hurricane

http://www.marshallparthenon.com/sports/herd-headed-toward-a-hurricane-1.2188129

D.C Herd Watching, C-USA Tournament

D.C area Marshall alumni are hosting game watching parties for all of the Herd’s C-USA tournament games. We will be gathering at the Crystal City Sports Pub, times are as follows:

Thursday March 11th vs TBA @ 7:30pm
Friday March 12th vs TBA @ 4pm
Saturday March 13th vs TBA @ 11:30am

Crystal City Sports Pub: http://www.ccsportspub.com/

Marshall’s next opponent…….

The C-USA men’s basketball tournament tips off today in Tulsa Oklahoma. Marshall will play tomorrow against the winner of Rice vs. Tulsa. The Golden Hurricanes and Owls tip off today at 7pm EST. The game will not be broadcast but you can follow the action via game tracker here: http://conferenceusa.cstv.com/championships/m-baskbl-bracket.html

Marshall offers Darian Cooper

Head football coach Doc Holliday has extended a scholarship offer to DeMatha (MD) defensive tackle Darian Cooper. Cooper already holds scholarship offers from BCS programs Maryland and Illinois. He has also taken a visit to Pittsburgh but did not received a scholarship offer from them.

DeMatha is one of Maryland's premier high school football programs. Eight DeMatha seniors signed division one scholarship offers this February.

Darian Cooper Rivals.com page: http://rivals.yahoo.com/marshall/football/recruiting/player-Darian-Cooper-105253

Darian Cooper YouTube video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V7X-ki3qyrw

Local Kicker to Walk on at MU

Sources have confirmed that Spring Valley kicker George Brody will walk-on at Marshall. Brody will compete with sophomore Tyler Warner and incoming freshman Justin Haig for kicking duties. Brody has big leg and hit a number of long kicks (over 40 yards) plus a game-winner vs. George Washington but injury slowed him the second half of his senior season (same type Ratanamorn dealt with in 2008).

On a separate note check out the Herd Insider at http://www.goherd.com/, a great source of Herd news.

Today's Marshall Sports News 3/10

From the Charleston Gazette, Tulsa should feel right at home in C-USA tournament

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201003090639

From the Charleston Gazette, C-USA honors for Herd

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201003090623

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Marshall's Whiteside, Pena earn C-USA honors

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201003100030

From the Herald Dispatch, After 23 wins, Wilkerson wants more

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x1543286008/After-23-wins-Wilkerson-wants-more

From the Herald Dispatch, Landon: MU players vote C-USA better than media does

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x1543285990/MU-players-vote-C-USA-better-than-media-does

From the Herald Dispatch, Adversity riddles MU women's season

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x1543286010/Adversity-riddles-MU-womens-season

From the Herald Dispatch, Landon: MU players vote C-USA better than media does

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x1543285990/MU-players-vote-C-USA-better-than-media-does

From the Herald Dispatch, McCann: Whiteside defense won't rest in tourney

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x1543285994/Whiteside-defense-wont-rest-in-tourney

From the Parthenon, C-USA teams look to take revenge on weakend Tigers

http://www.marshallparthenon.com/sports/c-usa-teams-look-to-take-revenge-on-weakend-tigers-1.2186662

From the Parthenon, Herd splits doubleheader with Valparaiso, looks for improvement

http://www.marshallparthenon.com/sports/herd-splits-doubleheader-with-valparaiso-looks-for-improvement-1.2186663

From the Parthenon, Tournament produces unique challenges and strategies for coaches

http://www.marshallparthenon.com/sports/tournament-produces-unique-challenges-and-strategies-for-coaches-1.2186656

Hassan Whiteside & Dago Pena earn C-USA Awards

Marshall University men's basketball player Hassan Whiteside has been selected Conference USA Rookie of the Year and Conference USA Defensive Player of the Year.

Teammate Dago Pena along with Tulsa's Steven Idlet have been chosen to share the Conference USA Sixth Man of the Year award.

Read the whole story at HerdZone.com: http://herdzone.cstv.com/sports/m-baskbl/spec-rel/030810aab.html

Marshall & WVU question higher education bill

Marshall President Stephen Kopp testified before the House Education Committee Monday in regards to WV Senate bill 480. Read about it here, includes quotes from Kopp: http://www.wvmetronews.com/index.cfm?func=displayfullstory&storyid=35666

WVU’s student newspaper, The Daily Athenaeum, expresses concerns about WV Senate bill 480: http://www.thedaonline.com/news/wvu-concerned-over-senate-bill-480-1.1260406

House panel approves higher education bill

From the Charleston Daily Mail: http://www.dailymail.com/News/statehouse/201003080900

CHARLESTON, W.Va.--The House Education Committee on Monday endorsed a bill that would revise the way West Virginia colleges pay their staff and also strengthen the state's Higher Education Policy Commission by taking back some autonomy from Marshall University and West Virginia University.

The bill, which originated in the Senate Education Committee, has been met with some skepticism from top officials at WVU and Marshall, but it has the backing of leaders in both houses, though the House made several amendments.

The House Education Committee asked that the bill not be sent to the House Finance Committee, which helps clear the way for the bill to pass the House quickly so the House can begin negotiations with the Senate............

Today's Marshall Sports News 3/9

From the Charleston Gazette, C-USA notebook: UTEP coach unnerved by dip in poll

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201003081051

From the Charleston Gazette, Herd's Wilkerson, Whiteside on All-CUSA second team

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201003081048

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Marshall's Wilkerson, Whiteside second-team All-Conference USA

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201003081082

From the Herald Dispatch, Tournament time here for C-USA

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x1543285508/C-USA-TOURNEY-TIME

From the Herald Dispatch, Landon: Conference a little more wide-open this year

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x1543285506/Conference-a-little-more-wide-open-this-year

From the Herald Dispatch, Sporting News names Whiteside All-American

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x1543285516/Sporting-News-names-Whiteside-All-American

From the Herald Dispatch, Whiteside, Wilkerson on C-USA 2nd team

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x1543285502/Whiteside-Wilkerson-on-C-USA-2nd-team

From the Herald Dispatch, MU women fall in overtime

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x1543285510/MU-women-fall-in-overtime

From the Herald Dispatch, Traylor: Little things doom Thundering Herd women

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x1543285518/Little-things-doom-Thundering-Herd-women

From the Herald Dispatch, Virginia defeats Herd in women's tennis, 6-1

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1543285544/Virginia-defeats-Herd-in-womens-tennis-6-1

From the Parthenon, Marshall women’s tennis loses second straight match

http://www.marshallparthenon.com/sports/marshall-women-s-tennis-loses-second-straight-match-1.2185044

From the Parthenon, Huntington native, MU golfer balances school, sports

http://www.marshallparthenon.com/sports/huntington-native-mu-golfer-balances-school-sports-1.2185037

From the Parthenon, Knights cook up Madness, end Herd’s season

http://www.marshallparthenon.com/sports/knights-cook-up-madness-end-herd-s-season-1.2185030

Marshall women's team eliminated

From: http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1101257620/Marshall-womens-team-eliminated

TULSA, Okla. — UCF ousted Marshall from the Conference USA women’s basketball tournament Monday afternoon, 59-57, in overtime. UCF, the eighth seed, advances with an 11-15 record. Ninth-seeded Marshall’s season ended at 14-16.

Wilkerson & Whiteside 2nd Team All C-USA

From: http://conferenceusa.cstv.com/sports/m-baskbl/spec-rel/030810aaa.html

The second team is comprised completely of forwards and centers. Marshall senior Tyler Wilkerson and freshman Hassan Whiteside (the only freshman all-conference selection) are joined by Southern Miss junior Gary Flowers, UTEP junior Derrick Caracter and Tulsa senior Jerome Jordan on the second unit.

SMU placed two student-athletes on the all-conference third team in junior forward Papa Dia and senior guard Derek Williams. The pair was joined by Memphis sophomore swingman Wesley Witherspoon and junior guards Brock Young of East Carolina and Aaron Johnson of UAB.

2009-10 ALL-CONFERENCE USA SECOND TEAM

Derrick Caracter, UTEP, F, 6-9, 275, Jr., Fanwood, N.J.
Gary Flowers, Southern Miss, F, 6-8, 214, Jr., Dallas, Texas
Jerome Jordan, Tulsa, C, 7-0, 245, Sr., Kingston, Jamaica
Hassan Whiteside, Marshall, F, 6-11, 235, Fr., Gastonia, N.C.
Tyler Wilkerson, Marshall, F, 6-8, 240, Sr., Lexington, Ky.

Congratulations Anthony Mackie & Brian Geraghty

We are Marshall actors Anthony Mackie (Nate Ruffin) and Brian Geraghty (Tom Bogdan) could be seen at the Oscars last night when The Hurt Locker accepted its award for best picture. Congratulations to both of them for taking part in a best picture award winner.

Albert McClellan & Cody Slate Update

From: http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x1543283891/Holliday-says-fans-welcome-this-spring

There's good news about the upcoming NFL Draft pertaining to Marshall.

Tight end Cody Slate is well ahead of schedule as he rehabilitates a torn anterior cruciate ligament and is getting interest from a few NFL teams.

That might be because Slate made a very wise choice of agents. He is being co-represented by Bus Cook and Tim DiPiero. Cook, a native West Virginian, is well known as Brett Favre's agent. DiPiero, a Huntington native and Charleston lawyer, is Randy Moss' agent.

At any rate, between Slate's rapid rehab and high-profile agents, there is talk of making him a late-round draft choice rather than allowing him to become a free agent.

Then, there's Albert McClellan. The defensive end turned in a very productive performance at the recent NFL Combine workouts in Indianapolis.

McClellan, who was measured at 6-foot-1, 247 pounds and is being projected as a hybrid defensive end/outside linebacker in a 3-4 scheme, turned in a solid 4.7-second time in the 40-yard dash.

But McClellan was more than solid in two other events. He placed fourth among all defensive linemen in the 20-yard shuttle run with a time of 4.21 seconds. And he was eighth in the vertical leap with a jump of 36.5 inches.

It appears McClellan will be selected in the NFL Draft.

Men’s BB: C-USA Tournament Bracket

Follow the link below to the C-USA men’s basketball tournament bracket. Marshall will tip off against the winner of Rice vs. Tulsa on Thursday at 7:30pm EST. All C-USA tournament games in the quarterfinals, semifinals, and finals will be broadcast on CBS College Sports.

http://conferenceusa.cstv.com/auto_pdf/p_hotos/s_chools/c-usa/sports/m-baskbl/auto_pdf/2010TourneyBracket

Today's Marshall Sports News 3/8

From the Charleston Gazette, Plenty at stake in this week's C-USA tourney

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/todayssportscolumn/201003070695

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Herd is happy, but focused on the postseason

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201003070749

From the Herald Dispatch, MU spring practice begins March 31

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x1543284754/MU-spring-practice-begins-March-31

From the Herald Dispatch, MU women loose heading into tournament

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x1543284756/MU-women-loose-heading-into-tournament

From the Herald Dispatch, McCarthy stepping down as coach at East Carolina

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x1543284774/No-Headline

From the Herald Dispatch, Mason, Herd bats on against Eagles

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1543284778/Mason-Herd-bats-on-against-Eagles

From the Parthenon, First match of tennis season lost to No. 44 Princeton

http://www.marshallparthenon.com/sports/first-match-of-tennis-season-lost-to-no-44-princeton-1.2183285

From the Parthenon, Women’s golf is 13th at invitational

http://www.marshallparthenon.com/sports/women-s-golf-is-13th-at-invitational-1.2183286

From the Parthenon, No training facility a hurdle for Track and Field

http://www.marshallparthenon.com/sports/no-training-facility-a-hurdle-for-track-and-field-1.2183291

From the Parthenon, Herd has hard road to conference title, may face defending champions

http://www.marshallparthenon.com/sports/herd-has-hard-road-to-conference-title-may-face-defending-champions-1.2183138

Former Marshall players & Indoor Football

Yes it is that time of year again, many indoor football leagues across the nation will be kicking off this weekend. Huntington is no stranger to indoor football as two franchises, the Huntington Heroes and River Cities LocoMoties use to play in town.

I have found four players with Marshall ties who are continuing there playing careers indoors. Former Herd defensive lineman Ryland Wilson will be suiting up for the Richmond Raiders (AIFA). Wilson was a two year player at Marshall (06-07) after transferring from junior college. 1999 All MAC defensive back Daninelle Derricott will be playing for Richmond’s other in indoor team the Revolution (IFL).

Two players with Marshall ties have come together in Columbus Georgia to play for the Lions (SIFL). Running back Tony Leath was part of Bob Pruett’s last recruiting class and spent one year at Marshall before transferring to North Carolina A&T. Another name Herd fans will recognize on the Lion’s roster is Chris Terrell. Terrell, who was ruled academically ineligible for his senior season, played defensive line at Marshall but has switched to offensive line for indoor football.

Other Marshall alumni who have played indoor/arena football that could end up on rosters later this season include Chris Royal, Jamus Martin, Dennis Thornton, Darius Watts and Curtis Keyes.
*Please note the Arena Football league does not return until April. Former Marshall quarterback Bernard Morris plays for one of Arena Football’s expansion franchises, the Jacksonville Sharks.

Today's Marshall Sports News 3/5

From the Charleston Gazette, MU to extend deal with ISP Sports

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201003040886

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Herd hopes loss doesn't start trend

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201003050042

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Marshall signs deal with ISP worth $22 million

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201003050039

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Marshall freshman could use more time

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201003030722

From the Herald Dispatch, Marshall deal to upgrade stadium

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x84984660/MU-deal-to-upgrade-stadium

From the Herald Dispatch, Marshall meets Mustangs for first time since Markel's miracle

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x84984658/Marshall-meets-Mustangs-for-first-time-since-Markels-miracle

From the Herald Dispatch, MU softball team ready to open home schedule

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x84984664/Herd-ready-to-open-home-schedule

From the Herald Dispatch, MU baseball team on road vs. Georgia Southern

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x84984662/Baseball-team-on-road-vs-Georgia-Southern

From the Herald Dispatch, MU women face UCF in 1st round

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x84984646/MU-women-face-UCF-in-1st-round

From the Parthenon, One for the road

http://www.marshallparthenon.com/sports/one-for-the-road-1.2181328

Marshall Basketball Recruiting

Tuesday night at the Cam Henderson Center Chris Lutz, Tyler Wilkerson, and Darryl Merthie played there last home game. Marshall already has one commitment for this years recruiting class to replace that senior trio but who else is the Herd looking at?

As mentioned Marshall did sign one player during the early commitment period in November. Current junior college forward and former High Point standout Steadman Short will be joining the Herd next season. At 6 foot 9 inches Short has the ability to fill Wilkerson’s void. At High Point Short averaged 6.9 points and 5.6 rebounds while starting 23 of 28 games. After transferring Short is playing at Chiploa Junior College this season. I can only find statistics for Short’s through December 5th but don’t fret, he is healthy and playing but the NJCAA website has not been updated.

With a forward in place Donnie Jones is looking for a few guards to round out his recruiting class. During the early signing period Marshall did lose out on Cardinal Gibbons (Ft. Lauderdale FL) point guard Sam Mills who will play at LaSalle next season. Marshall also lost out on guard Cory Stanton, (Springfield Tennessee) who visited Huntington but decided to play at Wright State. Currently Marshall has offers out to two guards, Kenyon McNeaill (Conway Arkansas) and Chris Grier (Decatur Georgia). Grier is also considering offers form Xavier, Tennessee Tech, UNC Greensborough, and Canisius, while McNeaill is being perused by fellow C-USA members Rice and UAB.

Marshall is also perusing Huntington Prep forward Gorgui Dieng. Huntington Prep’s Justin Coleman has already committed to Louisville which is also going after Dieng.

The NCAA opens up its regular signing period on April 14th.

Rivals.com pages for each of Marshall’s targets is below:

Gourgui Dieng: http://rivals.yahoo.com/marshall/basketball/recruiting/player-Gorgui-Dieng-106796

Kenyon McNeaill: http://rivals.yahoo.com/marshall/basketball/recruiting/player-Kenyon-McNeaill-95325

Chris Grier: http://rivals.yahoo.com/marshall/basketball/recruiting/player-Chris-Grier-80998

Today's Marshall Sports News 3/4

From the Charleston Gazette, Herd will live on Tulsa time

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201003030946

From the Herald Dispatch, Herd still hopes for tourney bye

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x548194118/Herd-still-hopes-for-tourney-bye

From the Herald Dispatch, Marshall prepping for spring practice

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x681183579/Marshall-prepping-for-spring-practice

From HerdZone.com, Herd Women Fall In Regular Season Finale, 75-70

http://herdzone.cstv.com/sports/w-baskbl/recaps/030310aaa.html

Victor Gomez Named to Johnny Bench Watch List

From Herdzone.com

Junior Victor Gomez of the Marshall University baseball team was named to the watch list for the 2010 Coleman Company Johnny Bench Award delivered by Papa John’s Pizza. The award is given to the nation’s top catcher by the Greater Wichita Sports Association.

Gomez, who was also named to the first team Preseason All-Conference USA squad, was among five catchers from the C-USA to be selected to the prestigious watch list.

During the 2009 season, Gomez led the team in homers (18), RBI (62), hits (72), total bases (143), extra-base hits (33), slugging percentage (.659), multi-hit games (23) and multi-RBI games (21).

In 2010, the backstop has collected eight hits in 28 at bats (.286), with a pair of doubles, one homer and six RBI.

The watch list will be narrowed down to ten semifinalists, whom will be announced May 19, 2010. Ballots will be sent to the national voting panel at the end of May for a vote to determine the three finalists. The finalists will be announced June 2, 2010 prior to the NCAA Regionals and Major League Baseball Draft. A final vote among the national committee will occur during the College World Series. All finalists will be brought to Wichita and the winner will be announced at the 13th Annual Greater Wichita Sports Banquet on July 1, 2010.

Men’s BB: What Marshall needs for a 4 seed

After last nights loss Marshall still hopes to obtain a four seed and first round bye into the C-USA basketball tournament. Herd fans should be rooting for SMU tonight against Tulsa (@Tulsa) and Memphis over Tulsa on Saturday (@ Memphis). The good news is Tulsa only needs to lose once if Marshall beats SMU on Saturday. If Tulsa wins both games they get the 4 spot. If both teams lose out Marshall gets the 4 seed.

Realistically the situation is this, the Herd needs to beat SMU and Tulsa needs to lose one of two remaining games.

Today's Marshall Sports News 3/3

From the Charleston Gazette, Seniors helped bring Herd's buzz back

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201003020994

From the Charleston Gazette, Herd comes up short

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201003020992

From the Charleston Gazette, Looks like 4 seed is the best…

http://blogs.wvgazette.com/dougsmock/2010/03/03/looks-like-4-seed-is-the-best/

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Despite loss, Marshall in its best shape in decades

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201003030051

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Second-half run lifts UTEP over Marshall

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201003030052

From the Charleston Daily Mail, NBA scouts love them some UTEP and Marshall

http://blogs.dailymail.com/marshall/2010/03/02/nba-scouts-like-utep-marshall/

From the Herald Dispatch, UTEP beats Marshall, 80-76

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x548193985/UTEP-beats-Marshall-80-76

From the Herald Dispatch, Landon: UTEP's Culpepper too hot for the Herd

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x84983430/UTEPs-Culpepper-too-hot-for-the-Herd

From the Herald Dispatch, Marshall women look to regain momentum

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x84983420/Marshall-women-look-to-regain-momentum

From the Herald Dispatch, Local sports briefs

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/marshall/x84983418/No-Headline

From the Parthenon, Undermined

http://www.marshallparthenon.com/sports/undermined-1.2177081

From the Parthenon, Marshall has a Caracter issue

http://www.marshallparthenon.com/sports/marshall-has-a-caracter-issue-1.2177089

From the Parthenon, Herd women ready for senior night against Memphis

http://www.marshallparthenon.com/sports/herd-women-ready-for-senior-night-against-memphis-1.2177095