Your Region Champs Announced

Hey Kids
The NCAA tournament has reached the Final Four, and so has Phats Bracket Contest, announcing your 4 winners that move on to the next round,
CHERYL
DUCK
TOPOLK
FUZZ
Theses four will now pick the final four with yours truly. I still haven't decided on a prize I had one idea but it required you giving me your address not sure if some of you are comfortable with that. Another idea is letting you guest blog on here, and if some of my readers don't read your blog that will be a good way to advertise. Alright on with the standings.
Starting with
West Region
1. FUZZ- 20 points
2. david- 5 points
3. Tina- 4 points
Phats- 22 points
This region was decided after the first two rounds were over. Fuzz survived the upset region of the tournament and advanced. Both Tina and David had the 1 seed losing in the second round so they lost chances to get extra points at the end. Congrats to Fuzz

MIDWEST
1. TOPOLK- 22 points
2. nutz- 18 points
3. design goddess- 7 points
Phats- 23
Newcomer Topolk claimed this region another one that had many upsets like Villanova and Siena. Nutz was right there but could never catch Topolk in the end. DG did the biggest no no in brackets, she went with her alma mater when they were seeded 9th. Never pick your school if they are higher than a 6. Not only did Kent State get beat they got obliterated by UNLV.

SOUTH
1. CHERYL- 34
2. Gary- 29
3. Jef- 24
4. Travis- 22
Phats- 30
Cheryl was our high point scorer for the whole contest with 34, but trailed up until the regional final. Gary led the entire time until he picked with his heart and not his head picking his Texas Longhorns to beat Memphis. That cost him the South. Jef, the defending champ won't defend his crown but had a nice little comeback, and Travis showed he can pick the roundball too.

EAST
1. THE DUCK- 30 points
2. Mr. Shife- 27
2. Tiggysmum- 27
Phats- 34
This region came down to one game Tennessee vs Louisville. Duck and Tiggy both picked the Cards, and Shife picked the Vols. The Cards won so duck edged out Shife. One different pick was the difference between Duck and Tiggy, ND vs WSU. Pretty much duck picked no upsets and that led him to victory. Shife's small consolation though UNC will be playing in the final four! Although I can't root for them I am in third in my school pool and have the Bruins winning it all.

CONGRATS to all the winners and thanks for playing again!

Tough day at the office

Hi everyone, you'll be glad to know this post isn't about sports!! Ha Ha. Although it kind has to do with sports but bear with me.

So, as many of you know I coach Varsity girls tennis, and our season is now in full swing. We have had 3 weeks of practice and that has been plenty of time to put together a line up. In varsity tennis here you play 7 girls at these slots
1 singles
2 singles
3 singles
1 Doubles
2 Doubles
Well, the singles spots were set pretty easily. I have a Freshman phenom who is playing at 1 singles. I can't even describe how good this girl is she's amazing. She can literally hit me, and both my assistants off the court and my assistant just finished playing college tennis. So after singles that left me with 4 spots and 5 girls competing. It just so happened that it came down to 4 seniors and a freshman. My assistant coaches and I agonized over who to put where for days, and today was the day we had to set the line up because our first match is tomorrow. So, after lengthy evaluation of putting different combos together today we came to the conclusion the Freshman and a Senior at 1 Doubles and 2 other Seniors at 2 doubles. Basically, I had to tell a Senior who played varsity last year she didn't make varsity. There were tears, and anger and it just wasn't pretty. Crazy of all crazy the parent that was most upset was that of the Freshman! She was pissed off thinking we were punishing her daughter by putting her at 1 Doubles. For starters, to me either 1 spot whether it be singles or doubles is a high honor, and for the record we have Freshmen at both those spots. Secondly, this women had no clue how the game works, and even after trying to explain to her she was still clueless. Finally, I wanted to say I have a Senior who played Varsity last year and didn't make this year because your daughter is taking up a varsity spot, would you rather me let the Senior play and drop your daughter to Junior Varsity? You truly can't please everyone I guess.

Idol. I was a NERVOUS for my girl Syesha tonight. It's no secret I have a HUGE crush on the girl. Sometimes Kristen will watch with me, and gets pissed when Syesha comes on because of that haha. How about David Cook? I have to get myself to actually not look at the combover, but man he's pretty good. I am still convinced that the tweens are going to vote in droves for David Archuleta. Michael Johns is still my pick I like the cat, he's pretty cool. I was glad to see "Jacuzzi" go home, I never liked him and didn't think he belonged in the top 12 to begin with. Does anyone watch Top Chef? I freaking love that show, I can't even imagine how good that kitchen must smell when they are all cooking.

See, no sports! Do I win some reward or something for that??

Bracket Contest Updated Standings, and look back

Like all good things, the Purdue basketball season for 08 came to an end Saturday with a loss to the 3 seeded Xavier Muskateers. It's always tough to lose and I hate losing, however, a day later you can actually look at the bright side which we started 2 Freshmen, 2 Soph's, and a Junior, graduated 1 player, as they say the future looks bright. I am definitely proud of our "Baby Boilers" and Coach Matt Painter for all he accomplished this season. Our womens team won tonight over Utah in the opening round, so that helps ease the sting too, but they will more than likely end their crazy journey on Tuesday at the hands of the defending National Champion Tennessee Lady Vols.

Here is an updated version of the standings, to see what is left for our contestants consult the previous post. Once again a BIG THANK YOU to all of you who participated this year, it wouldn't work without you. That being said one region has been won already, and three remain up in the air. Defending champion Jef doesn't look like he'll regain his title.

First the regions that have been clinched
WEST
1. FUZZ- 8 points
2. David- 5 points
3. Tina 4 points
The west bracket basically imploded for everyone when both Western Kentucky, and San Diego won, and then Duke was knocked out. Tina and David don't have anyway to get anymore points so CONGRATS FUZZ you will be picking the Final 4 with the other region winners.
*Phats record so far in the West- 9 points total.

MIDWEST
1. TOPOLK- 10 points
2. Design Goddess- 7 points
3. Nutz- 6 points
While Mathematically DG is still alive the odds aren't looking good for her. She needs Villanova to defeat Kansas that is the only way she'll win. Nutz can't pass Topolk because they have identical picks remaining.
*Phats record so far in the MW- 13 points

SOUTH
1. Gary- 19 points
2. Travis- 17 points
3. Cheryl- 17 points
4. Jef- 12 points
This is anyone's bracket to win. Gary has been very impressive so far but Cheryl and Travis can overtake him in the sweet 16/elite 8 because all three of them have different champions. Jef needs a miracle to regain his crown it appears. Good race, I bet Gary will be bragging about this for awhile if he beats Cheryl
*Phats record so far in the South- 13 points

EAST
1. DUCK- 20 points
2. Tiggysmum- 17 points
3. Mr Shife- 15 points
Another close region, and by far the most impressive performance. The Duck is perfect going into the sweet 16, he was smart by not taking a single upset. Although perfect Mr Shife could actually pass Duck, he needs to root like hell for UT to beat L'ville and then UNC to advance to the final four and he can claim the East. Unfortunately for Tiggy she has pretty much been eliminated because she has taken the exact same picks as duck here on out.
Phats record in the East so far- 17 points.

Thanks again I will still be updating the scores and picks on the previous post. Back to nonsports post after the madness ends! Anyone have any good ideas on what the prize should be for this contest? A date with me? haha! Speaking of Kristen and I have a very "interesting" bet on our brackets and right now I am smiling because I am winning!!

Blogger Bracket Challenge 2008 style

SOMETIMES THE BALL JUST DOESN'T BOUNCE YOUR WAY. CONGRATS TO X, MAYBE YOU CAN HIRE THIS OFFICIATING CREW FOR PHOENIX ;)

UPDATED STANDINGS FOR YOUR REGION AT THE BOTTOM.

We have come to the start of the madness for 2008. Yours truly has taken work off Thursday to enjoy not only all the games, but my Boilers play at 2:50 in DC. Thanks to all who participated, and sorry to those who added comments just not enough room.

Welcome to the second annual Phats Blogger Bracket Contest. 13 bloggers are competitng in 4 regions the upcoming NCAA tournament. Here is how it works, you get 1 pt for correct first round, 3 for 2nd, 5 for 3rd, and 7 for 4th. The four winners, will come back and pick the final 4 and national title game. The overall winner will receive some prize. Next to each picker is the school they back. Best of luck to all participating, check back after Friday night's games for a leaderboard update.

MIDWEST REGION
NUTZ's PICKS
1. Kansas over 16 Portland State CORRECT PICK KANSAS 85 psu 61
9. Kent State over 8. UNLV INCORRECT UNLV 71 kent state 58
5. Clemson over 12. Villanova INCORRECT NOVA 75 clemson 69
4. Vanderbilt over 13. Siena INCORRECT SIENA 83 vandy 62
6. Southern Cal over 11. Kansas State INCORRECT KSTATE 80 usc 67
3. Wisconsin over 14 Cal State Fullerton CORRECT WISKY 71 csf 56
7. Gonzaga over 10. Davidson INCORRECT Davidson 82 zags 76
2 Georgetown over 15. UMBC CORRECT G'town 66 umbc 47
2nd Round
1. Kansas over 9 Kent State CORRECT KANSAS 75 unlv 56
4. Vanderbilt over 5 Clemson INCORRECT VANDY OUT
6. Southern Cal over Wisconsin INCORRECT USC OUT
7. Gonzaga over 2. Georgetown INCORRECT GONZAGA OUT
3rd Round
1. Kansas over 4 Vanderbilt CORRECT KU 72 nova 57
7. Gonzaga over 6. Southern Cal INCORRECT GONZAGA OUT
NUTZ'S MIDWEST REGION CHAMP
1. Kansas over 7. Gonzaga CORRECT KANSAS 59 davidson 57

TOPOLK's PICKS (Clemson)
1. Kansas over 16 Portland State CORRECT PICK KANSAS 85 psu 61
9. Kent State over 8. UNLV INCORRECT UNLV 71 kent state 58
5. Clemson over 12. Villanova INCORRECT NOVA 75 clemson 69
4. Vanderbilt over 13. Siena INCORRECT SIENA 83 vandy 62
11. Kansas State over 6. Southern Cal CORRECT KSTATE 80 usc 67
3. Wisconsin over 14. Cal State Fullerton CORRECT WISKY 71 csf 56
7. Gonzaga over 10. Davidson INCORRECT Davidson 82 zags 76
2. Georgetown over 15. UMBC CORRECT G'town 66 umbc 47
2nd ROUND
1. Kansas over 9. Kent State CORRECT KANSAS 75 unlv 56
5. Clemson over 4. Vanderbilt INCORRECT CLEMSON OUT
3. Wisconsin over 11. Kansas State CORRECT WISKY 72 KState 55
2. Georgetown over 7. Gonzaga INCORRECT Davidson 74 G'town 70
3rd ROUND
1. Kansas over 5. Clemson CORRECT KU 72 nova 57
2. Georgetown over 3. Wisconsin INCORRECT GEORGETOWN OUT
TOPOLK'S MIDWEST REGION CHAMPION
1. KANSAS over 2. georgetown CORRECT KANSAS 59 davidson 57

DESIGN GODDESS's PICKS (Kent State)
1. Kansas over 16 Portland State CORRECT PICK KANSAS 85 psu 61
9. Kent State over 8. UNLV INCORRECT UNLV 71 kent state 58
12. Villanova over 5. Clemson CORRECT NOVA 75 clemson 69
13. Siena over 4. Vanderbilt CORRECT SIENA 83 vandy 62
6. Southern Cal over 11. Kansas State INCORRECT KSTATE 80 usc 67
14. Cal State Fullerton over 3.Wisconsin INCORRECT WISKY 71 csf 56
7. Gonzaga over 10. Davidson INCORRECT Davidson 82 zags 76
2. Georgetown over 15. UMBC CORRECT G'town 66 umbc 47
2ND ROUND
9. Kent State over 1. Kansas INCORRECT KENT STATE ELIMINATED
12. Villanova over 13. Siena CORRECT NOVA 84 siena 72
6. Southern Cal over 14. Cal State Fullerton INCORRECT USC OUT
2. Georgetown over 7. Gonzaga INCORRECT Davidson 74 G'town 70
3rd ROUND
12. Villanova over 9. Kent State INCORRECT KU 72 nova 57
2. Georgetown over 6. Southern Cal INCORRECT GEORGETOWN OUT
DESIGN GODDESS'S MIDWEST REGION CHAMP
2. GEORGETOWN over 12. villanova INCORRECT GEORGETOWN OUT

PHAT's PICKS
Kansas, UNLV, Clemson, Vandy, USC, Wisconsin, Davidson, Georgetown
Kansas, Vandy, Wisconsin, Georgetown
Kansas, Georgetown
KANSAS

SOUTH REGION
GARY's PICKS (Texas)
1. Memphis over 16 Texas Arlington CORRECT Memphis 87 uta 63
8. Mississippi State over 9 Oregon CORRECT MISS ST. 76 oregon 69
5. Michigan State over 12. Temple CORRECT PICK MSU 72 Temple 61
4. Pittsburgh over 13. Oral Roberts CORRECT PITTSBURGH 82 oru 63
11. Kentucky over 6. Marquette INCORRECT MARQUETTE 74 uk 66
3. Stanford over 14. Cornell CORRECT STANFORD 77 cornell 53
7. Miami Fla over 10. St Mary's CORRECT MIAMI 78 smc 64
2. Texas over 15. Austin Peay CORRECT TEXAS 74 peay 54
2nd ROUND
1. Memphis over 8. Mississippi State CORRECT MEMPHIS 77 msu 74
5. Michigan State over 4. Pittsburgh CORRECT MSU 65 pitt 54
3. Stanford over 11. Kentucky CORRECT Stan 82 Marq 81 OT
2. Texas over 7. Miami Fla CORRECT TX 75 miami fla 72
3r ROUND
1. Memphis over 5. Michigan State CORRECT Memphis 92 msu 74
2. Texas over 3. Stanford CORRECT TEXAS 82 stanford 62
GARY'S SOUTH REGION CHAMPION
2. TEXAS over 1. memphis INCORRECT MEMPHIS 85 ut 67

TRAVIS's PICKS (Nebraska)
1. Memphis over 16 Texas Arlington CORRECT G'town 66 umbc 47
9. Oregon over 8. Mississippi State INCORRECT MISS ST 76 oregon 69
5. Michigan State over 12 Temple CORRECT PICK MSU 72 temple 61
4. Pittsburgh over 13. Oral Roberts CORRECT PITTSBURGH 82 oru 63
11. Kentucky over 6. Marquette INCORRECT MARQUETTE 74 uk 66
3. Stanford over 14. Cornell CORRECT STANFORD 77 cornell 53
10. St Mary's over 7. Miami Fla INCORRECT MIAMI 78 smc 64
2. Texas over 15. Austin Peay CORRECT TEXAS 74 peay 54
2nd ROUND
1. Memphis over 9. Oregon CORRECT MEMPHIS 77 msu 74
5. Michigan State over 4. Pittsburgh CORRECT MSU 65 pitt 54
3. Stanford over 11. Kentucky CORRECT Stan 82 Marq 81 OT
2. Texas over 10. St Mary's CORRECT TX 75 miami fla 72
3rd ROUND
1. Memphis over 5. Michigan State CORRECT Memphis 92 msu 74
3. Stanford over 2. Texas INCORRECT TEXAS 82 stanford 62
TRAVIS'S SOUTH REGION CHAMP
3. STANFORD over 2. texas INCORRECT MEMPHIS 85 ut 67

JEF's PICKS (Texas Tech or Anti Texas)
1. Memphis over 16. Texas Arlington CORRECT G'town 66 umbc 47
8. Mississippi State over 9. Oregon CORRECT MISS ST. 76 oregon 69
12. Temple over 5. Michigan State INCORRECT MSU 72 Temple 61
4. Pittsburgh over 13. Oral Roberts CORRECT PITTSBURGH 82 oru 63
11. Kentucky over 6. Marquette INCORRECT MARQUETTE 74 uk 66
3. Stanford over 14. Cornell CORRECT STANFORD 77 cornell 53
7. Miami Fla over 10 St Mary's CORRECT MIAMI 78 smc 64
2. Texas over 15. Austin Peay CORRECT TEXAS 74 peay 54
2nd ROUND
1. Memphis over 8. Mississippi State CORRECT MEMPHIS 77 msu 74
12. Temple over 4. Pittsburgh INCORRECT TEMPLE OUT
11. Kentucky over 3. Stanford INCORRECT KENTUCKY OUT
2. Texas over 7. Miami Fla CORRECT TX 75 miami fla 72
3rd ROUND
1. Memphis over 12. Temple CORRECT Memphis 92 msu 74
11. Kentucky over 2. Texas INCORRECT KENTUCKY OUT
JEF'S SOUTH REGION CHAMPION
1. MEMPHIS over 11. kentucky CORRECT MEMPHIS 85 ut 67

CHERYL's PICKS (Alabama)
1. Memphis over 16. Texas Arlington CORRECT G'town 66 umbc 47
8. Mississippi State over 9. Oregon CORRECT MISS ST. 76 oregon 69
12. Temple over 5. Michigan State INCORRECT MSU 72 temple 61
4. Pittsburgh over 13. Oral Roberts CORRECT PITTSBURGH 82 oru 63
11. Kentucky over 6. Marquette INCORRECT MARQUETTE 74 uk 66
3. Stanford over 14. Cornell CORRECT STANFORD 77 cornell 53
7. Miami Fla over 10 St Mary's CORRECT MIAMI 78 smc 64
2. Texas over 15. Austin Peay CORRECT TEXAS 74 peay 54
2nd ROUND
1. Memphis over 8. Mississippi State CORRECT MEMPHIS 77 msu 74
4. Pittsburgh over 12. Temple INCORRECT MSU 65 pitt 54
11. Kentucky over 3. Stanford INCORRECT KENTUCKY OUT
2. Texas over 7. Miami Fla CORRECT TX 75 miami fla 72
3rd ROUND
1. Memphis over 4. Pittsburgh CORRECT Memphis 92 msu 74
2. Texas over 11. Kentucky CORRECT TEXAS 82 stanford 62
CHERYL'S SOUTH REGION CHAMP
1. MEMPHIS over 2. texas CORRECT MEMPHIS 85 ut 67

PHAT'S PICKS
Memphis, Mississippi State, Michigan State, Pitt, Marquette, Stanford, St Mary's, Texas
Memphis, Pitt, Marquette, Texas
Memphis, Texas
MEMPHIS

EAST REGION
MR. SHIFE's PICKS (Idaho/North Carolina)
1. North Carolina over Mt St Mary's CORRECT UNC 113 msm 74
8 Indiana over 9. Arkansas INCORRECT ARKANSAS 86 iu 72
5. Notre Dame over 12. George Mason CORRECT ND 68 gmu 50
4.Washington State over 13.Winthrop CORRECT WSU 71 winthrop 40
11. St Joesph's over 6. Oklahoma INCORRECT OU 72 St Joe's 64
3. Louisville over 14. Boise State CORRECT L'VILLE 79 bsu 61
7. Butler over 10. South Alabama CORRECT BUTLER 81 usa 61
2. Tennessee over 15. American CORRECT UT 72 american 57
2nd ROUND
1. North Carolina over 8. Indiana CORRECT UNC 108 arkansas 77
5. Notre Dame over 4. Washington State INCORRECT WSU 61 nd 41
3. Louisville over 11. St Joesph's CORRECT L'VILLE 78 ou 48
2. Tennessee over 7. Butler CORRECT UT 76 butler 71 ot
3rd ROUND
1. North Carolina over 5. Notre Dame CORRECT UNC 68 wsu 47
2. Tennessee over 3. Louisville INCORRECT L'VILLE 79 ut 60
MR SHIFE'S EAST REGION CHAMP
1. NORTH CAROLINA over tennessee CORRECT UNC 83 l'ville 73

DUCK's PICKS
1. North Carolina over Mt St Mary's CORRECT UNC 113 msm 74
9. Arkansas over 8. Indiana CORRECT ARKANSAS 86 iu 72
5. Notre Dame over 12. George Mason CORRECT ND 68 gmu 50
4.Washington State over 13.Winthrop CORRECT WSU 71 winthrop 40
6. Oklahoma over 11. St Joesph's CORRECT OU 72 St Joe's 64
3. Louisville over 14 Boise State CORRECT L'VILLE 79 bsu 61
7. Butler over 10 South Alabama CORRECT BUTLER 81 usa 61
2. Tennessee over 15. American CORRECT UT 72 american 57
2nd ROUND
1. North Carolina over 9. Arkansas CORRECT UNC 108 arkansas 77
4. Washington State over 5. Notre Dame CORRECT WSU 61 nd 41
3. Louisville over 6. Oklahoma CORRECT L'VILLE 78 ou 48
2. Tennessee over 7. Butler CORRECT UT 76 butler 71 ot
3rd Round
1. North Carolina over 4. Washington State CORRECT UNC 68 wsu 47
3. Louisville over 2. Tennessee CORRECT L'VILLE 79 ut 60
DUCK'S EAST REGION CHAMP
3. LOUISVILLE over 1. north carolina INCORRECT UNC 83 l'ville 73

TIGGYSMUM's PICKS
1. North Carolina over 16 Mt St Mary's CORRECT UNC 113 msm 74
9. Arkansas over 8. Indiana CORRECT ARKANSAS 86 iu 72
5. Notre Dame over 12 George Mason CORRECT ND 68 gmu 50
4.Washington State over 13.Winthrop CORRECT WSU 71 winthrop 40
6. Oklahoma over 11. St Joesph's CORRECT OU 72 St Joe's 64
3. Louisville over 14. Boise State CORRECT L'VILLE 79 bsu 61
7. Butler over 10. South Alabama CORRECT BUTLER 81 usa 61
2. Tennessee over 15. American CORRECT UT 72 american 57
2nd ROUND
1. North Carolina over 9 Arkansas CORRECT UNC 108 arkansas 77
5. Notre Dame over 4. Washington State INCORRECT WSU 61 nd 41
3. Louisville over 6. Oklahoma CORRECT L'VILLE 78 ou 48
2. Tennessee over 7. Butler CORRECT UT 76 butler 71 ot
3rd ROUND
1. North Carolina over 5. Notre Dame CORRECT UNC 68 wsu 47
3. Louisville over 2. Tennessee CORRECT L'VILLE 79 ut 60
TIGGYSMUM'S EAST REGION CHAMP
3. LOUISVILLE over 1. north carolina INCORRECT UNC 83 l'ville 73

PHAT's PICKS
North Carolina, Arkansas, Notre Dame, Washington State, Oklahoma, L'ville, Butler, UT
North Carolina, Washington State, L'ville, Butler
UNC, L'ville
NORTH CAROLINA

WEST
FUZZ's PICKS (Texas Tech)
1. UCLA over 16. Mississippi Valley State CORRECT UCLA 70 mvsu 29
8. BYU over 9. Texas A&M INCORRECT TEXAS A&M 67 byu 62
5.Drake over 12.Western Kentucky INCORRECT WKU 101 drake 99 ot
4. Connecticut over 13. San Diego INCORRECT SD 70 uconn 69ot
6. Purdue over 11. Baylor CORRECT PURDUE 90 baylor 79
3. Xavier over 14 Georgia CORRECT XAVIER 73 georgia 61
7. West Virginia over 10. Arizona CORRECT WVU 75 Arizona 65
2. Duke over 15. Belmont CORRECT DUKE 71 belmont 70
2nd ROUND
1. UCLA over 8. BYU CORRECT UCLA 53 A&M 49
4. UCONN over 5. Drake INCORRECT CONNECTICUT OUT
6. Purdue over 3. Xavier INCORRECT X 85 purdue 78
2. Duke over 7. West Virginia INCORRECT WVU 73 duke 67
3rd ROUND
1. UCLA over 4. UCONN CORRECT UCLA 88 wku 78
6. Purdue over 2. Duke INCORRECT PURDUE OUT
FUZZ'S WEST REGION CHAMP
1. UCLA over purdue CORRECT UCLA 76 xaview 57

DAVID's PICKS (Duke)
1. UCLA over 16 Mississippi Valley State CORRECT UCLA 70 mvsu 29
9. Texas A&M over 8. BYU CORRECT TEXAS A&M 67 byu 62
5.Drake over 12.Western Kentucky INCORRECT WKU 100 drake 99 ot
4. Connecticut over 13. San Diego INCORRECT SD 70 uconn 69ot
6. Purdue over 11. Baylor CORRECT PURDUE 90 baylor 79
3. Xavier over 14. Georgia CORRECT XAVIER 73 georgia 61
10. Arizona over 7. West Virginia INCORRECT WVU 75 Arizona 65
2. Duke over 15. Belmont CORRECT DUKE 71 belmont 70
2nd ROUND
9. Texas A&M over 1. UCLA INCORRECT UCLA 53 A&M 49
5. Drake over 4 Connecticut INCORRECT DRAKE OUT
6. Purdue over 3. Xavier INCORRECT X 85 purdue 78
2. Duke over 10. Arizona INCORRECT WVU 73 duke 67
3rd ROUND
5. Drake over 9. Texas A&M INCORRECT DRAKE OUT
2. Duke over 6. Purdue INCORRECT DUKE OUT
DAVID'S WEST REGION CHAMP
2. DUKE over 5. drake INCORRECT DUKE OUT

TINA's PICKS (VCU)
1. UCLA over 16. Mississippi Valley State CORRECT UCLA 70 mvsu 29
8. BYU over 9. Texas A&M INCORRECT TEXAS A&M 67 byu 62
12.Western Kentucky over 5.Drake CORRECT WKU 100 drake 99 ot
4. Connecticut over 13. San Diego INCORRECT SD 70 uconn 69ot
6. Purdue over 11. Baylor CORRECT PURDUE 90 baylor 79
14. Georgia over 3. Xavier INCORRECT XAVIER 73 georgia 61
10. Arizona over 7. West Virginia INCORRECT WVU 75 Arizona 65
2. Duke over 15. Belmont CORRECT DUKE 71 belmont 70
2nd ROUND
8. BYU over 1. UCLA INCORRECT BYU OUT
5. Connecticut over 12. Western Kentucky INCORRECT CONNECTICUT OUT
6. Purdue over 14. Georgia INCORRECT X 85 purdue 78
2. Duke over 10. Arizona INCORRECT WVU 73 duke 67
3rd ROUND
8. BYU over 4. Connecticut INCORRECT BYU OUT
2. Duke over 6. Purdue INCORRECT DUKE OUT
TINA'S WEST REGION CHAMP
2. DUKE over 8 byu INCORRECT DUKE OUT

PHAT'S PICKS
UCLA, Texas A&M, Drake, UCONN, Purdue, Xavier, West Virginia, Duke
UCLA, UCONN, Purdue, Duke
UCLA, Duke
UCLA

Hail Hail to old Purdue all Hail to our old gold and black
Hail Hail to old Purdue our friendship may she never lack
Ever Grateful, ever true thus we raise our song a new FIRE UP!
Of the days we've spent with you, all Hail our old Purdue
GO BOILERS!

BTFU!!!

STANDINGS AFTER RD 1 Pretty much everyone is still in it. Big Ups to DG for picking BOTH Siena and Nova to win. That singlehandily kept you alive.
MIDWEST
1. TOPOLK 4/8
1. DESIGN GODDESS 4/8
3. NUTZ 3/8
PHATS- 5/8
SOUTH
1. GARY 7/8
2. JEF 6/8
2. CHERYL 6/8
4. TRAVIS 5/8
PHATS- 7/8
EAST
1. DUCK 8/8
1. TIGGYSMUM 8/8
3. MR. SHIFE 6/8
PHATS- 8/8
WEST(the real carnage)
1. FUZZ 5/8
1. DAVID 5/8
3. TINA 4/8
PHATS- 6/8

My field of 65

Those of you looking for a non sports post, scroll down to my previous entry, no keep going all the way to the bottom of it geesh.

Welcome to Selection Sunday, like last year I am throwing my hat into the ring of people predicting the field of 65. I am no Joe Lunardi with ESPN, and I won't go as far as he does and put them in brackets, but last year I was pretty damn close. Lets start with the 1 bid leagues. The leagues where the team that wins the conference tournament gets it. These with 20 minutes until selection sunday!
American East- UMBC (first appearance ever I believe)
Atlantic Sun- Belmont (Home of 3rd place winner of Idol Melinda Doolittle)
Big Sky- Portland State (another newbie I believe)
Big South- Winthrop (year in, year out the eagles are dancing)
Big West- Cal State Fullerton (Dancing for the first time since the 70's)
CAA- George Mason (Sorry Tina, VCU won't be dancing)
Conference USA- Memphis(C-USA's only rep but it's a good one)
Horizon- Butler (Looking at anywhere from a 4-7 seed)
Ivy- Cornell (Who needs a conference tournament?!)
MAAC- Siena (The Saints heading back to the dance)
MAC- Kent State (Way to represent for Design Goddess!)
MEAC- Coppin State ( First 20 loss team to make the dance, your reward the playin game)
MVC- Drake (Some see this a 2 bid league not me, although Drake could go far)
NEC- Mount St Mary's (I learned they liked to be called "the mount")
OVC- Austin Peay (You'll be hearing the great cheer "LETS GO PEAY!)
Patriot- American (Another NCAA virgin)
Southern- Davidson (Not many teams want to face these cats in the first round)
Southland- Texas Arlington (Mavericks going dancing)
SWAC- Mississippi Valley State (The Delta Devils!)
Summit- Oral Roberts (Took down IUPUI boo!)
WAC- Boise State (YAY for the Duck's team, what a great conference championship game)
So that takes care of 21 bids from 1 bid leagues who gets the rest. Here's my take

A 10(3)
Xavier- The Bigger ? did they play themselves out of 3 seed with the loss to St Joe's
TEMPLE- won the automatic bid no sweating bubbles for them
St Joes- Beat X twice you're in.
ACC (5)
North Carolina- Hansboro looked like a fucking tool after he hit the game winner today but they are safely in
Clemson- Hopefully will claim the automatic bid(I am writing this late sat night)
Duke- Yawn
Virginia Tech- Played their way in with a gutsy performance vs. the Heels
Miami Fla- Should be in, but could be one of the last left out
Big 12 (6)
Texas- Could be the 4th 1 seed
Kansas- See above
Kansas State- Anyone else tired of hearing about Michael Beasley?
Oklahoma- A good showing in the tourney semi's
Texas A/M- Not sure what to say here but they are in
Baylor- Sweating it could be one of the last in
Big East (8)
Georgetown- Didn't win conf tournament, but will be a tough out.
Notre Dame- Some advice never take the Irish very far in your office pool
Louisville- Everyone seems to be picking these guys for a final 4 run, REALLY? Have I mentioned Purdue BEAT them
Connecticut- Take this team far in your office pool will be a beast to deal with
Marquette- Dominique James is too arrogant
PITTSBURGH- the Big East Automatic Qualifier
West Virginia- Did enough to get in.
Villanova- I think they're in, but will definitely be on the bubble
Big Ten (4)
Wisconsin- Badgers just keep on winning as long as they aren't playing us(purdue)
Purdue- not too bad of a loss, hopefully won't hurt the seeding that much either a 4 or a 5 I bet
Michigan State- Had the Badgers down in the Big Ten Semi's couldn't put them away.
Indiana- Quite possibly a defeated team, another one not to pick in your office pool.
MWC (2)
BYU- Pencil them for a Thursday/Saturday since they can't play on Sunday's
UNLV- Running Rebs benefit from conference tournament on home floor
Pac 10 (5)
UCLA- Strong candidate for final four run
Stanford- Can't beat the Bruins
Washington State- Cougars could surprise some teams
USC- OJ Mayo's only trip to the dance before he turns pro
Arizona State- Sun Devils sneak in by the skin of their teeth
SEC (5)
Tennessee- Hmm Vols look really shaky at times, and really good at times.
Vanderbilt- Good team in a very weak SEC
Mississippi State- Survived a Tornado and the Crimson Tide all in one game
Arkansas- Hog Heaven
Kentucky- Who would have thought UK would make the tournament back in Dec?
Georgia- Easily most impressive conference tournament run
Sun Belt (2)
Western Kentucky- Toppers know they are in they won the automatic bid
Southern Alabama- Last team in my field of 65, but the Jags make it.
West Coast Conference (3)
San Diego- Hosting the WCC tournament sure helped San Diego they earn the automatic bid
Gonzaga- Another tournament appearance for the Zags
St Mary's- Bound to wind up in the dreaded 8/9 game.

There you have it your field of 65. My last four in last four out would be
IN
Villanova
Arizona State
South Alabama
Kentucky
OUT
Ohio State
UMASS
Florida
Oregon

A crazy thing happened on the way to the Semi's

Just a quick post here, I am going to post my field of 65 Sunday before the actual field is announced. Those non sports fans scroll down for American Idol, Big Brother, and more.

First off what a crazy night in the Georgia Dome at the SEC Tournament. Mississippi State and Alabama in the middle of an intense overtime game have to be delayed for a tornado warning! I saw that crawl go by on ESPN and did a double take. How freaking scary would that be to see the scaffolding from the ceiling swinging back and forth, and debris following from the dome's top. GEESH! Thankfully they got the game in and it appears everyone at the game was safe. Now they are talking about making UK/UGA play tomorrow morning then play again later, that's unfair but they have to get it in before selection sunday. My opinion if UGA loses it doesn't matter the rest of the teams left are in, crown UT the champ. The SEC is REALLY bad this year in basketball none of them are going to do much in the tournament besides UT.

So, the Boilers bowed out of the Big Ten Tournament tonight losing to #10 seed Illinois. Usually I am pissed over losses, not as mad at this one. Here's why. Conference tournaments are for the fans, and teams that are desperate to make the tournament. I love these tournaments, but don't put much stock into them for the teams already in. Thank god we're not on the bubble this year, and this loss really doesn't mean much. Instead of playing two or one more day, we are going to be able to rest 3 of our starters who are banged up now. Hats off to Illinois for the win, I like Coach Weber and hopes he wins the thing now. The travel call with 30 secs to go and us up three was our undoing, he might have done it but the no call then on the other end was killer.

The really funny story is IU lost as well! Conseco Fieldhouse in Indy, Purdue and IU playing back to back full to capacity and both flame out. An interesting tidbit Purdue has NEVER won a game in Conseco in the Big Ten Tournament. Anyway, what's funny is the local media here has done nothing but talk about the semi final showdown between Purdue and IU, not once mentioning they would have to win their Quarterfinal game first. So, no game tomorrow or Sunday, we'll find out where we are headed Sunday.

Idol, I believe the fans got it right voting of David Hernandez. My choices for the bottom 2 were he and Kristy Lee Cook. They were both awful, although what she did was not only awful but comical I was laughing my ass off watching her try to keep up with the band. I think she'll go this week. I don't really believe his(david's) being outted as a gay male stripper hurt him as much as his song choice.

Big Brother- For you Cara! I am a big fan of Big Brother, but I am having trouble getting into this season. I think I need it to stay on just in the summer when I can actually spend time getting into it. They really turned me off when they did couples. Thankfully they are playing as singles now. I like Chelsia I think she's cute, and is playing pretty smart. I loved that James got to come back and play, and hopefully won't get voted off immediately. I think Natalie and Matt are the most annoying and I am ready for BOTH together, how about a double eviction?? I still swear I could win this game easily if I could just get cast, SIGN ME UP!

Finally- I am a varsity tennis coach and our season is in full swing now. We just finished our first week of practice and I am happy to report the weather has cooperated with us and let us be outside. The first day we were out there with gloves, hats, and jackets, but lately it's been awesome outside! Our first match is on April Fools Day, wish us luck :)

Have a great weekend
Phats
PS If you are wanting to be a part of the bracket contest I will be getting ahold of all the contestants Sunday night! Make sure I have your email. You can email me at

phats_blog_email@yahoo.com

We're DANCING!!!

So, the people that read this that enjoy sports might not even enjoy this one since it pertains to the womens team, but I am so fing excited I had to post about it! The Purdue women won the Big Ten Tournament this past Sunday and in doing so claimed the automatic berth to the NCAA tournament. Usually this is no big deal because we are almost always in shoot we have gone to the dance 14 straight years, however only winning this tournament guarenteed that this year with a 17-14 record entering the game. An outside shot of getting an at large, but lets just say I am glad I don't have to sweat that bubble. I am so proud of this team after what they have been thru this season check out all they have gone thru.

First off we graduated all american and current WNBA player Katie Gearlds(our leading scorer), and our leading rebounder and 3rd leading scorer Erin Lawless(also in the WNBA). That's two starters
July- Word comes that our All American candidate Lyndsey Wysdom-Hylton has torn her ACL playing for USA basketball in Russia, out for the season. That's starter number 3 out.
2 weeks before practice it's announced Jodi Howell will miss the entire season due to shoulder surgery after injuring it in the NCAA tournament. She is our best 3 point shooters, and that is starter number 4 out.
So we lost 4 starters and our only returning starter being point guard FaKhara Malone who is 5ft3 and was never asked to be a scorer in her Freshman year of play. a few games in she gets knocked out has a concussion and is forced to miss 3 games that's our entire starting line up from the previous year.
You add to that we are playing a team of role players, and playing a top 10 schedule that included, UConn, Notre Dame, Duke, ODU, North Carolina, Washington, and Gonzaga it didn't look good. After struggling thru that schedule they somehow found a way to be in the hunt for the big ten title on a 6 player rotation, and ended up 3rd and getting the 3 seed for the big ten tournament.

Nobody not even the diehard fans thought this team was capable of winning three straight games, but they proved us wrong yet again. They beat IU in the opener. Followed that up by defeating Iowa after trailing by 17 points, and then when Kiki Freeman's rebound basket went thru the net with no time remaining secured the NCAA berth by defeating Illinois 58-56. I nearly killed myself jumping up and down at Conseco Fieldhouse with all the other Boiler fans. So proud of this team. We should have known, the Big Ten Tournament is pretty much the Boilermaker Invite. This tournament has been held for 14 seasons. Here are the Boilers totals.
Never had to play on Thursday(meaning always a top 5 seed)
10 Championship Game appearances
7 Championships
a 28-7 overall record in the thing.
Other coaches have squawked how we have an unfair advantage because it's in Indy and our fans flock there, tough shit man! Get some fans willing to drive.

So, now it's onto the NCAA tournament, and we are a host school so we will be playing in the friendly confines of Mackey Arena. The selection committee had to be jumping up and down too because it's all about money, and at 17-15 I am not sure we would have gotten an at large, but at 18-14 we're comfortably in. Even in a down year. Now lets up the Mens Big Ten Tournament we'll be as fun for us!
Enjoy the exciting finish


BOILER UP!
Phats

Idol Chatter just for your Bekah J!

Hello all
Well, I don't have many comments so that tells me some of you are sick of sports so this will not be about sports. Besides I am depressed after we lost the other night so I am boycotting sports til Friday when I will be over the crushing defeat haha. So, tonights post is about my favorite reality show American Idol. Since we're down to crunch time, tomorrow they reveal the top 12 I thought I would give you my picks as to who I think will make it and why. Hopefully some of you will chime in with your opinions, I know Mr Shife and Design Goddess watch Idol religiously.

I think the idol producers next year should skip 60's and 70's as a theme and just start with the 80's because both the men and women were light years better this week with their performances. That said I do agree that this might be the most talented top 24 ever, and there are about 8 people who I could actually see winning. What I would like to see less of is Ryan Seacrest trying to show up Simon, geesh he never thanks him at the end what a assmonkey. Alright here are my picks for your top 12. starting with the ladies they are more fresh in my mind.

Lets start with the locks to make it.
Carly Smithson- Yep, there has been the big debate over whether people who have done albums before should be allowed in the competition, and not only has she done an album(it flopped) but Randy Jackson was part of the label at the time. My problem with her has nothing to do with her singing, she's a great singer, it's the tatts. Sorry but tatts on women just aren't sexy! She could however end up final, my prediction for her
RUNNER UP
Brooke White- The "virgin" of the competition. She basically walked into her first audition and stated she'd never seen a R rated movie. She should have hooked up with the dude that had never been kissed. She's really coming on lately, and will glide into the top 12. my prediction for her 5th
Those are really the only two locks from the girls. Here are the other 4 I think will make it.
Syesha Mercado- Love her, haven't been wowed by her. She got an unfair review tonight because they didn't have time to hear extended comments from the judges. Hopefully that won't hurt her. Also I have Aa major crush on her!
Asia'h Epperson- Not a fan of hers but she is still good enough to make the top 12. The cynic in me keeps thinking we're going to see a mysterious uncle show up, and it's really her dad. I know that's horrible. She'll be out early I believe.
Ramiele "don't call me Lullabye" Malubay- I can't decide on this one. Some nights I like her some nights I don't. She did post wild pictures of herself making out with other girls on her myspace so that will help like it did Antonella last year. She could be a dark horse.
Amanda Overmeyer- Of course I am picking the hometown girl. So she doesn't actually live in Kokomo but she works here, have to root for her. She was actually awesome tonight, and Simon loved her that puts her in the top 12. Not sure how long she'll last though and Bekah I agree she looked less like Cruella tonight!
Almost, thanks for playing
Kristy Lee Cook the bikini cagefighter and Kady Malloy both bite the dust, oh so close!

Now to the men. Who were overall better than the woman and if I could I would have 7 of the guys and 5 girls in the finals.
Locks
David Archuleta- Haven't seen such a lock since Carrie Underwood's season. Simon has pretty much crowned him the winner already. I like this kid, but I can totally see him becoming the most annoying contestant in the competition. I already am starting to feel that. He has a great voice, but he is my pick for the shocking elimination of the year, watch it will happen at final 3.
Prediction 3rd.
Michael Johns- The Aussie Mascot. I like this guy, he seems cool and collected, and down to earth and so far scandal free. I agree with what Simon said he has yet to pick the right song and when he does watch out. He's my pick to be the next American Idol for sure.
David Cook- Another somewhat of a hometown boy. He spent his summers in Kokomo so I have to root for him. He's the rocker on the mens side, and his take on "hello" was freaking awesome. However, I can't get over the cheese factor he has the Constantine down for sure, and the hair he's in the early stages of Gene Keady Syndrome! Prediction Third.
The best of the rest.
David Hernandez- Not sure if the whole gay stripper controversy will hinder him or not, we'll see tomorrow I guess. Bad time for the story to break, but I don't see the big deal it was a job it might not be one alot of people approve of, but it's not like he broke a law. If he gets past that and people overlook it he could be a real dark horse.
Jason Castro- Mr Muppet. I loved his performance Tuesday night, and I love that song he did, Hallelujah. I am still not sure how far he'll get but I like the cat, and he seems to gotten over the interview jitters.
Luke Menard- I don't think he belongs in the top 12, but I believe he'll make it. He is the male version of Haylee from last year, bekah's favorite. The women will vote him through bank it. He will make his exit though sooner than Haylee did last year.
Thanks for Playing
Danny Noriega- Still not sure what the hell it is, and ready for him to go.
Chikezi"jacuzzi"- He talked back to Simon 2 weeks ago, he lost me there, and why in the world would he sing a Whitney Houston song.

There ya go, my picks, and I am probably way off but we'll see. The next post will be back to sports so live with it. Have a great Thursday!
Phats

It's March, let the MADNESS begin

Welcome to my favorite time of the year, March Madness! Anyone will tell you this is possibly the greatest time of the year for a college hoops junky, and those who know me know I am just that. It's even more fun when my Boilers are playing so well. Currently 23-6, 14-2 in the Big Ten and tied with Wisconsin for first. March Madness will go into full swing this week with the start of Championship Week and will run for 2 weeks leading up to the NCAA Tournament selection show. That will be followed by what I think is the best sporting event in the world the 1st and 2nd rounds of the NCAA Tournament. It's wild, there are games that end within seconds of each other on last second shots, shocking upsets and more. So, Phats will be in heaven here for the next few weeks, and lets just say Purdue has made it a lot easier on my nerves this year by securing a tournament bid and not having to sweat out the bubble! Here is a quick preview of some of what I am looking forward to.

Purdue has 2 games left and it's quite simple win both and the worst you do is share the big ten title. Easier said than done considering the games are At Ohio State, and At Michigan. OSU is fighting for their NCAA tournament lives, and right now are on the outside looking in. UM has struggled, but you never know what Wolverine team will show up. Incase of a shared title we would get the 1 seed in the Big Ten Tournament. A loss would drop us to the 3 seed. I want the one seed, sure it means the title but it also means Wisky and IU having to play each other in the semi's. Our women are probably going to see their NCAA streak snapped unless they win their tournament. They are the only team in the Big Ten to NEVER have to play on Thursday's opening round. This will be the 14th Big Ten Tournament and my Boilers have won 7 of them including last year's. They are the three seed and will play the winner of IU/Northwestern on Friday. Need a miracle, but should at least make the WNIT which after all this team has been through would be a nice reward.

Who will be cinderella? I have always loved watching the smaller conference tournaments ever since I can remember. For them it's one and done they HAVE to win their conference or they won't get the NCAA invite, which can make for some exciting tournaments. Some of the smaller conferences to watch the Horizon League featuring Nationally Ranked and from Indianapolis the Butler Bulldogs. They will get in win or lose though so I guess that was a bad example haha. A better one might be Tina's VCU Rams. They pretty much have to win the CAA to get the invite, I like their chances, and hope my Boilers don't have to play them in the NCAA's. Some of the others to watch the MAAC not to be confused with the MAC, the MVC which features the nation's Cinderella in Drake, and WCC with powerhouse Gonzaga trying to hold off St Mary's. Any conference that has the Jenny Craig Center as the name of a gym is aces with me.

So there you have it a short rundown about the upcoming madness. I am going to be doing my second annual Phats Bracket Challenge, I will be asking several of you to participate, maybe I can even talk my new friend Topolk into joining the fun. Big win for Clemson tonight by the way, saw the clutch shot made to win it niiiice!

Let the madness begin!
Phats