UConn is evil. I think we can all agree on that. It should be noted on Wikipedia momentarily. It is a wicked, wicked den of wanton disregard for human life. And that's just the snack bar. ZING!
You know what's going on. #1 UConn is 22-1, they have won 12 in a row, and they will be hosting the Orange tonight in Ga(y)mpel Pavilion where SU has never won. the Orange don't seem to be giving their faithful any kind of reason to think tonight will be any different. The #23 Orange are 18-6 but 5 of those losses have come in the last 7 games. Even though they are playing the #1 team in the nation, a loss tonight will knock the Orange out the Top 25. And rightfully so.
The Orange will have to contend with Hasheem Thabeet, who will in turn contend many of their shots.
The Huskies junior center is generally acknowledged to be the best shot-blocker in the nation. He averages 4.1 blocks per game. In a blowout win over Providence earlier this season, Thabeet recorded the first triple-double of his career with 15 points, 11 rebounds and 10 blocks. When he played in the Carrier Dome last season, he swatted seven SU shots in a Connecticut win over the Orange.
The Orange, and specificially Eric Devendorf are going to have to contend with another tough opponent...the road crowd. Expect to see some signage referring to Devo in the crowd, and I don't mean the kind that say "Whip It, Devo!!!"
Brian from Orange44 will be there so if you find yourself being attacked by a gangly crowd of Husky fans, look for the Orange shirts and combine your efforts. You'll need to keep you wits about you. UConn fans can be easily distracted if you yell that there's a 14-year-old girl nearby. I suggest you use that tactic. Couple more previews below. Keep an eye out for a chat at the Three Idiots site. Otherwise, the GameThread will be live here.
- Orange44's SU-UConn preview...Orange44
- A shot at #1...Daily Orange
- UConn awaits the Orange at Gampel...CuseOrange