On The Horizon

Jim Squire

News and notes from IndyBall Shootout--The Indy Star

* Got a look at Eron Gordon, the incoming North Central freshman guard and youngest brother of Eric Gordon Jr., the former North Central/Indiana star currently playing the NBA. The 6-1 Gordon, playing up a grade level with the Eric Gordon Central Stars 15s, had 32 points in a blowout win. While of the offensive production seemed to come easy, so did his ability get his teammates involved and spread the wealth. Gordon, who is receiving interest from Butler, Indiana and Purdue, among others, will face unreasonable expectations because of his brother, but doesn’t seem fazed in the least. I’d expect him to be a difference-maker from Day One at North Central.
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* It’s hard not to appreciate the toughness of Kokomo’s Tayler Persons, who plays the point for the Eric Gordon 16s. The 6-1 Persons said he is receiving college interest from Indiana State and Loyola (Ill.) and has also heard from Georgia State and IUPUI. Persons isn’t flashy but is about as hard-nosed as they come.

* Mooreville’s Jacob Johnson is probably a bit under-the-radar at this point, but college coaches are starting to find out about the 6-6 left-handed rising junior. Johnson said Valparaiso, Evansville, Indiana State, Butler, Xavier and Purdue have been in contact and he hopes to visit Butler and Valparaiso this spring. The college interest is all relatively new for Johnson, who averaged 10.7 points and 6.1 rebounds as a sophomore. Didn’t get to see him shoot much from the perimeter, but very athletic.

* Sean Sellers, a 6-6 rising junior, said he’s hearing more from Evansville and Indiana State, as well as Butler, Michigan and Dayton. He said he hopes to attend the Butler elite camp, but it may conflict with the state track meet, as he competes in the high jump. … His high school teammate, 6-3 guard Bryant McIntosh is gaining interest from Ball State and Indiana State, as coaches from both schools plan to see him the coming week.

* Chandler White, a strong 6-2 rising sophomore guard from Fort Wayne Carroll, has had coaches from several schools in to see him, including Indiana, Michigan, Michigan State, Purdue, Butler and Xavier. He’s visited Indiana, Purdue, Michigan and Michigan State for games. White, who is playing for Indiana Elite/Team Indiana 15s, said Indiana and Michigan have been after him the hardest to this point. He doesn’t yet have an offer.

* Grant Weatherford, a 6-foot rising sophomore guard from Hamilton Heights, is getting some early Division I interest. He is also playing with Indiana Elite/Team Indiana, a team loaded with guards. Joining him the backcourt is Sean McGee Jr., a 5-10 point guard from Fort Wayne North Side. Butler, Indiana, Michigan State and Purdue have sent coaches to see McGee and he’s also been to Indiana, Michigan State, Purdue and Xavier. McGee, who doesn’t yet have any offers, said Indiana and Michigan State are his favorite schools to this point.
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* Sean Sellers, a 6-6 rising junior, said he’s hearing more from Evansville and Indiana State, as well as Butler, Michigan and Dayton. He said he hopes to attend the Butler elite camp, but it may conflict with the state track meet, as he competes in the high jump. … His high school teammate, 6-3 guard Bryant McIntosh is gaining interest from Ball State and Indiana State, as coaches from both schools plan to see him the coming week.

* Chandler White, a strong 6-2 rising sophomore guard from Fort Wayne Carroll, has had coaches from several schools in to see him, including Indiana, Michigan, Michigan State, Purdue, Butler and Xavier. He’s visited Indiana, Purdue, Michigan and Michigan State for games. White, who is playing for Indiana Elite/Team Indiana 15s, said Indiana and Michigan have been after him the hardest to this point. He doesn’t yet have an offer.

* Grant Weatherford, a 6-foot rising sophomore guard from Hamilton Heights, is getting some early Division I interest. He is also playing with Indiana Elite/Team Indiana, a team loaded with guards. Joining him the backcourt is Sean McGee Jr., a 5-10 point guard from Fort Wayne North Side. Butler, Indiana, Michigan State and Purdue have sent coaches to see McGee and he’s also been to Indiana, Michigan State, Purdue and Xavier. McGee, who doesn’t yet have any offers, said Indiana and Michigan State are his favorite schools to this point.

MEN'S BASKETBALL: Michael Orris granted release from Illini--The NWI Times

Among the schools showing interest are Kansas State, where Weber is now the head coach, Pitt, Boston College, Missouri State, Valparaiso and Wisconsin-Green Bay. Orris' high school teammate Greg Mays is a freshman at UW-Green Bay.

College Hoops Top 25 For 2012-2013 [Amended to Reflect Recruits/NBA Decisions]--The Big Lead

18. Butler (22-15, NIT). Top four scorers back plus high-impact transfer in Clarke.

Ball Don't Lie
Delonte West sticks his finger in Gordon Hayward’s ear, gets T’d up, is matter-of-fact about it (VIDEO)--Ball Don't Lie
Utah Jazz-Dallas Mavericks: Instant Analysis--Deseret News

An NBA first: In the annals of recorded NBA lore, it is doubtful that a player has ever put his finger in an opponent’s ear during a dead ball. Well, that changed Monday night.

In the second quarter, Mavs guard Delonte West did just that, angrily poking a digit into Gordon Hayward’s ear. The former had fouled the latter, and as the whistle was called, West waltzed over, taunting the Utah Jazz sophomore. Before anyone knew it, he put his finger in Hayward’s ear.

He was given a technical and while Hayward missed the free throw, it was the Jazz guard who had the last laugh. Hayward’s 24 points, five assists and four rebounds were seemingly spurred on by the disrespectful action by West.
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Devin Harris led the triple charge, hitting a game-high 5-12 from downtown against the team that drafted him. Backcourt partner Gordon Hayward was more efficient, nailing 4 of 6. Carroll, Jamaal Tinsley and Blake Ahearn each hit one, with Ahearn scoring his first points in a Jazz uniform.

Utah Jazz quintet logs strong performance to hold off Mavericks--Deseret News
Big win vs. 'Big D': Utah Jazz hang on to beat Mavericks in triple overtime--Deseret News

And Gordon Hayward had clutch plays while scoring 24 points with five assists and four boards.
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Setting the tone for a weird and wild game, West stuck his finger in Hayward's ear after getting called for a foul on the Jazz shooting guard. West was given a technical — somehow avoiding getting tossed for the bizarre act — and Utah got the last laugh.

West's explanation?

"(Hayward) had some lint in his hair. I was just trying to get it out for him," West said. "I was giving him a wet willy. That's all. We are two warriors. We're out here battling on the battlefield."

Jazz notebook: A straight-forward scenario for reaching playoffs--Deseret News

"We realize how big of a game it is (tonight). We've just got to go out there and execute the game plan and not have any mental lapses," Jazz shooting guard Gordon Hayward said. "We realize a loss here or there could mean that we go home early, and none of us want that."

Utah Jazz: Hayward keeps his head during pursuit of playoffs--Deseret News
Rock On: Why not rename the Marriott Center?--Deseret News

AN EAR FULL

Remember the '60s phrase, "Stick it in your ear!"

Delonte West does.

Apparently upset about being called for a foul against the Jazz on Monday, the Dallas guard jammed his index finger into Gordon Hayward's ear.

West's explanation: "He just had some lint in his hair. I was trying to get it out for him. I was giving him a wet willy. That's all. We are two warriors. We're out here battling on the battlefield."

Same thing the Duke of Wellington did to Napoleon, right?

Or maybe West has just been watching too many "Three Stooges" trailers.

Al Jefferson lifts Utah Jazz to 3OT win over Dallas Mavericks--Salt Lake Tribune

With the Jazz’s playoff hopes wavering, Utah relied on everyone from Gordon Hayward and Devin Harris to Carroll to pull out a win clearly worthy of a team clawing for a postseason spot.

Jamaal Tinsley approaches career assists milestone--Salt Lake Tribune

"Wet willy" aftermath

The morning after Delonte West stuck a finger in his ear during Utah’s 123-121 triple-overtime win over Dallas, Gordon Hayward admitted his first instinct was to confront the Mavs’ veteran guard.

Instead, he walked away.

"You have to keep your composure more than getting into a fight or anything like that," Hayward said.

The incident began when West fouled Hayward as the two ran up the floor. West kept talking to Hayward and, at one point, stuck a finger in his ear.

After reviewing the play on TV, the officials gave West a technical foul but, strangely perhaps, did not eject him for an incident that could have triggered something worse.

Said Hayward, "He bumped me and it’s like, ‘O.K., he’s obviously frustrated.’ Then, when he did the second [thing], it’s like, ‘Man, we’ve got him right where we want him.’"

According to Hayward, the Jazz "got the last laugh" by beating the Mavericks.

West could be facing disciplinary action by the NBA, which Hayward’s teammates criticized.

" ... I thought it was childish," Jeremy Evans said. "But, as far as Gordon, I thought he was really strong — keeping his composure. A lot of guys really can’t do that."

Said rookie Alec Burks: "There’s no call for that. I mean, we’re all grown men. You can’t challenge somebody’s manhood out there like that. I didn’t like that at all."

Asked if he’s ever seen anything like it, Burks said, "In pick-up ball, it happens a lot. But we’re out here playing a game and we get paid for it. There ain’t no need for that."

Jazz notes: Blake Ahearn hoping for second contract with Utah--Salt Lake Tribune

Soft crime

The NBA announced Wednesday it fined Dallas guard Delonte West $25,000 for a physical taunt of Jazz forward Gordon Hayward during Utah’s 123-121 triple-overtime home victory Monday.

West intentionally stuck a finger in Hayward’s ear during the game and received a technical foul.

"He bumped me and it’s, ‘OK, he’s obviously frustrated,’ " Hayward said Tuesday. "Then when he did the second one, it’s like, ‘Man, we’ve got him right where we want him.’ … We got the last laugh with the win."

Wizards vs. Bulls: Kevin Seraphin, John Wall lead upset of team with NBA’s best record--Washington Post

Kevin Seraphin, Maurice Evans, Brian Cook and Shelvin Mack refused to let their team give in, and the Wizards battled on both ends, getting two defensive stops in the final seconds to escape with one of their grittiest wins of the season.
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Chicago took a 68-57 lead less than a minute into the fourth quarter when guard Richard Hamilton (22 points) made a baseline jumper and Seraphin fouled Bulls reserve Omer Asik, who made the free throw to complete the odd three-point play. But Seraphin started a 13-0 run by converting a three-point play on the other end. Cook tied the score with a three-pointer and Mack followed with a driving layup to give the Wizards a 70-68 lead.

Go finger: Hayward, Jazz stay alive--Indy Star Butler Insider
Recruiting strategy: Leave one open?--Indy Star Butler Insider

LeBron James introduces rookie Norris Cole to Jay-Z after a Heat win (VIDEO)--Ball Don't Lie
Resting players will be priority for Miami Heat for remaining games--Miami Herald

Playing time

Rookies will likely get more opportunities like Terrel Harris did against the Nets.

In his first career start, Harris played 23 minutes at the shooting guard spot and finished with seven points on 3-of-5 shooting, two assists and one turnover.

Norris Cole has struggled to recapture his early season form. Cole played several minutes in the fourth quarter Monday and finished with nine points.

Press Release: Josh Ivory Signs With Cleveland State--Cleveland State Hoops
Report: Cleveland State Offers Midland College's Majok--Cleveland State Hoops

Detroit Mercy's Ray McCallum earns national Jesuit honor--The Detroit Free Press
McCallum Named to National All-Jesuit Team--detroittitans.com

Guards Joey Miller, Jay Parker Join UIC Basketball as Transfers--uicflames.com

Women's Basketball Celebrates Historic Season at Awards Banquet--uicflames.com

Loyola Recruits Have Outstanding 2011-12 Seasons--LoyolaRamblers.com

Men's basketball: UWGB's Turner on track in ACL recovery--Green Bay Press Gazette

UWGB's Wojta drafted by WNBA's Minnesota Lynx--Green Bay Press Gazette
Women's basketball: Borseth retains 4 Bollant recruits--Green Bay Press Gazette
Minnesota Lynx drafts UWGB's Wojta in WNBA Draft--UWGB Basketball
Wojta Selected as 18th Overall Pick in WNBA Draft--GreenBayPhoenix.com
Green Bay Hands Out Postseason Awards--GreenBayPhoenix.com

Season In Review: Panthers Earn Postseason Berth For Second-Straight Year--uwmpanthers.com
Milwaukee Basketball Golf Classic Set For July 16--uwmpanthers.com

Milwaukee's Alex Klawitter Returns From Mission Trip--uwmpanthers.com

Roundtable: Tommy Kurth keeping perspective through ailment-laced basketball career--Elkhart Truth Valpo coach values Kurth’s presence on roster--Elkhart Truth Basketball: Valpo or Loyola likely for Rossi--BearTalk No way to ignore Drew’s flaws now--The Post-Tribune
Dority, Coleman transfers official--Off The Mark
Crusaders Announce Addition of Two Transfer Guards--valpoathletics.com

Women’s Hoops Hands Out Year-End Honors--valpoathletics.com

Wright State mourns the loss of Fred Moore--Dayton Daily News
WSU fans, coach and former players to take on OSU alums tonight at Nutter Center Local coaches, Chivington, Tincher and Sam to play, Dailies' Wayne Baker and Jon Rudy to hoop--Xenia Daily Gazette

Basketball Programs Recognize Accomplishments at Annual Awards Banquet--ysusports.com
Damian Eargle Named to CollegeInsider.com Mid-Major All-Defensive Team--ysusports.com

Basketball Programs Recognize Accomplishments at Annual Awards Banquet--ysusports.com

Green Bay's Julie Wojta Selected 18th in WNBA Draft--Horizon League Network
Milwaukee's Alex Klawitter Returns From Mission Trip--Horizon League Network

Jim Squire

Utah Jazz suffer tough loss to Memphis Grizzlies, 103-98--Deseret News

"They're a playoff team," Jazz swingman Gordon Hayward said. "They're where we want to be."

Mayo's 17-point fourth quarter — including a backbreaking 3-pointer over Hayward that put Memphis up 98-94 with 45.8 seconds remaining — made the road to get there this year all the tougher for Utah.
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And Hayward had his shot blocked a bit later by Memphis center Marc Gasol, which could have trimmed the Grizz's lead to two with 30 seconds remaining.
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"We didn't get stops defensively," Hayward said. "They made some big, big plays and big shots down the stretch and that's got to be on us to get those stops and rebounds."
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Al Jefferson and Harris led the Jazz with 20 points apiece, while Millsap and Hayward each contributed 17. Derrick Favors had his third-straight double-double — a career-first — with 14 rebounds and 10 points off the bench.

Utah Jazz-Memphis Grizzlies: Instant Analysis--Deseret News

Numbers that tell Stories:
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61.7 percent: the proportion of Utah’s available minutes taken by Jefferson, Devin Harris, Paul Millsap and Gordon Hayward. Jazz head coach Tyrone Corbin altered his rotations quite a bit, going with his starters for most of the second half.

Erik Spoelstra defends rotation roulette with long view--South Florida Sun Sentinel

"The rookie -- Norris Cole -- we haven’t seen him tonight. He's struggled, [Joel] Anthony didn't play the other night. They're still trying to find their playoff rotation."
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Even with injecting Miller into the primary rotation and going without a backup point guard, with Norris Cole again held out Sunday for all but the final six seconds of the first half, Spoelstra does not view it as a dramatic overhaul.

Transition game: Botham steps down--UWM Post

Jim Squire

Utah Jazz-Memphis Grizzlies: Report Card--Deseret News

Guards: Utah’s starting backcourt of Devin Harris and Gordon Hayward played dramatically better Saturday, and it stemmed from aggressiveness and energy. Harris set the tone, scoring Utah’s first eight points en route to 20 total points and six assists. Hayward produced another all-around performance with 17 points, five assists and four rebounds. That said, they struggled defensively as Memphis guards Mike Conley and O.J. Mayo combined for 37 points themselves, including some dagger 3-pointers by Mayo down the stretch. GRADE: B

Utah Jazz fall to Memphis Grizzlies as postseason looms--Salt Lake Tribune

Since training camp for the lockout-shortened 2011-12 campaign started, all Utah’s starting center has wanted to do is make the playoffs. His goal has been the same as second-year coach Tyrone Corbin’s. Corbin’s focus has been in line with everyone from Paul Millsap and Gordon Hayward to Jamaal Tinsley and Utah General Manager Kevin O’Connor.

Develop youth while winning games. Stay in contention. Get to the postseason. See what happens.
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With starters Devin Harris, Hayward, Millsap and Jefferson playing like their season was at stake and Corbin coaching for the kill, Utah held a 78-72 lead with 11 minutes and 24 seconds to go.
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"It feels like [we’ve been in the playoffs] for the last two or three weeks," Hayward said. "Each and every game, we’re fighting for our lives here. These last couple ones have been tough on us."

CSU Vikings Early Season Preview--Let's Go Vikes!

Scott Venci column: Is a different Borseth returning to UWGB?--Green Bay Press Gazette

Jim Squire

Utah Jazz mindful of last trip to the Big Easy--Deseret News
Utah Jazz-New Orleans Hornets: Report Card--Deseret News

Guards: After his stellar game vs. Houston, Gordon Hayward struggled mightily Friday, managing just eight points and five assists. Meanwhile, Devin Harris was passive and seemed reluctant to shoot. He did hand out eight assists. Defensively was where the guards had the most difficulties, as New Orleans counterparts Eric Gordon and Greivis Vasquez torched them for 36 points and 12 assists.

Alec Burks was solid off the bench, tallying nine points in 20 high-energy minutes. Jamaal Tinsley was OK, but added just two points in 21 minutes. GRADE: C-

Gordon takes over, Hornets beat Jazz, 96-85--Deseret News

Gordon scored the last seven points of the run on a driving layup through a crowd, a 3-pointer and a 23-foot step-back jumper that he set up with repeated between-the-legs dribbles that seemed to mesmerize Utah's Gordon Hayward. The run gave New Orleans a 92-82 lead with 2:18 to go, and Utah could not recover.

Hayward watches Gordon burn Jazz--Salt Lake Tribune
Another New Orleans letdown for unpredictable Utah Jazz--Salt Lake Tribune

Utah pulled the same trick Friday. The Jazz demolished the Rockets on Wednesday, walking out of Houston with a 103-91 victory. Gordon Hayward said Utah was going to try and close its season by winning seven consecutive games.

Wizards vs. Knicks: Washington sets one franchise low, flirts with another in blowout loss--Washington Post

Shelvin Mack ended a drought of more than 12 minutes without a field goal in the second half when he made a layup. When Crawford quickly followed with a runner in the lane that brought the Wizards within 89-54 with 5:34 remaining, Knicks fans chanted, “Under 60! Under 60!” At least it provided a target to reach.

Bobcats provide perfect prey for Miami Heat--Miami Herald

Eleven players got on the court, all 11 scored and that helped keep James to 28:44 of playing time; Bosh to 29:43; and point guard Mario Chalmers to 20:05. Backups Terrel Harris played 35:07 and Norris Cole 25:53.
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By the fourth quarter, it was JV basketball, with Eddy Curry, Juwan Howard, Cole and Harris on the court for the Heat. A Curry dunk closed the Heat’s version of DunkFest ’12 — it threw down 11 — and the scoring.

Heat get temporary relief with 105-82 rout of Bobcats--South Florida Sun Sentinel

With James and Bosh playing limited minutes Friday, it left plenty of time for the likes of James Jones and Joel Anthony, who filled in as starters, as well as the likes of Norris Cole, Terrel Harris, Dexter Pittman, Juwan Howard and Eddy Curry, players who figure to go back into hibernation when the level of competition returns to NBA level.

Walker, Odom will always have the Heat--South Florida Sun Sentinel

WAITING GAME: The Heat are weighing their options when it comes to fielding a summer-league team in July. The Heat are expected to commit to at least one summer league, either the Orlando Magic-run round-robin July 9-13 at the Amway Center or the NBA-run league that is scheduled July 13-22 at the University of Nevada-Las Vegas. Among potential Heat participants would be their 2012 first-round pick, 2011 first-round pick Norris Cole, as well as impending free agents Dexter Pittman and Terrel Harris. There were no summer leagues last year due to the lockout, with the Heat participating in the Las Vegas summer league in 2010 after previously opting for the Orlando league, which is held on the Magic's practice court at closed to the public.

UWM reviewing sports program, athletic director--Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

Jim Squire

Utah Jazz-Houston Rockets: Instant Analysis--Deseret News

Brilliant Efficiency: It can be argued that sophomore Gordon Hayward has been the most consistent player for the Utah Jazz the second half of the season. Wednesday was additional evidence for that argument. In an excellent display of efficiency, Hayward destroyed the Rockets with an impressive offensive stat line: 9 of 14 from the field, 4 of 5 on 3-pointers and a perfect 7 of 7 from the free-throw line en route to a game-high 29 points.

He also added six assists and two steals and played some solid defense in the second half. Gordon Hayward is clearly a reason for Utah Jazz fans to be optimistic about now and the future.

Utah Jazz prove they can win despite all the injuries, beat Houston 103-91--Deseret News

But the Jazz still have their version of the Big 3: Al Jefferson, Paul Millsap and Derrick Favors.

They still have their baby-faced assassin, Gordon Hayward.
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"The mentality now is we've just got to find ways to win," Hayward said. "This was a huge win for us as a team. I don't think you can ever doubt the heart of our team. We're down to 10 players now and we're just out there fighting, competing, just trying to find ways to win."

It showed.

Especially from him.

The ever-improving Hayward attacked the Rockets from inside, aggressively scoring in transition and attacking the basket like a veteran.

The more confident 22-year-old also had his stroke on from the outside, hitting 4 of 5 3-pointers.

Hayward helped carry the team offensively in the first half, and then he kept shouldering the load in the second en route to a season-high 29 points.

"When I seen him last year, I knew he was going to be a great player. He just have all the tools," Jefferson said. "But just to watch it happen right in front of my eyes, it's just amazing to see."

Couldn't have asked for better timing, either. Hayward, who's had double-figure scoring in nine straight games, dished out six assists, to boot.

"My teammates did a great job of finding me early on. That kind of got me going a little bit," Hayward said. "Devin made some great passes, the transition shots. I was able to get some spot-up threes early and it just kind of went from there."

Utah Jazz: Millsap will play — Evans will not — tonight's Jazz-Hornets game--Deseret News

Millsap will begin the game with Devin Harris, Gordon Hayward, DeMarre Carroll and Al Jefferson.
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The Jazz still only have three wing players in Hayward, Carroll and Alec Burks, and they have three point guards: Harris, Jamaal Tinsley and newcomer Blake Ahearn, who can all play shooting guard as well.

"We're limited," Corbin said. "With Jeremy being out also, we're shorthanded. We'll get it worked out."

Worst-case scenario, Corbin said the 6-8 Hayward could guard 7-footer Jason Smith of New Orleans for a short stretch, but that would make the Jazz very small.

Wizards’ Ernie Grunfeld won't let speculation about future affect him--Washington Post

Grunfeld’s draft choices from last June — Singleton, Jan Vesely and Shelvin Mack — have also failed to make significant contributions despite considerable opportunities.

Alumni given chance to see Mack play again--Butler Collegian

Heat road woes continue in 96-86 overtime loss in Chicago--South Florida Sun Sentinel

Shuffled out of Spoelstra's new rotation were Norris Cole, James Jones and Terrel Harris, on a night the Heat bench was outscored 47-7.

Coach Wardle to Offer Full Slate of Basketball Camps--GreenBayPhoenix.com

VIDEO: Wojta Ready for WNBA Draft Experience--GreenBayPhoenix.com

Men’s Basketball Signs Forward Kamren Belin During Late Signing Period--ysusports.com

Jim Squire

Boston College Basketball Targets Alex Dragicevich, Tony Gill Hit Campus This Weekend--BC Interruption

Dragicevich is a 6-foot-7 shooting guard that has spent the last two seasons at Notre Dame. Dragicevich decided to transfer back on March 27 in part because of concerns about playing time. Dragicevich was behind a number of talented guards in South Bend. The sophomore played in all 34 games this past season, starting 10 of those contests. He averaged 20.9 minutes and 6.6 points per game, shooting 39.2 percent from the field and 34.2 percent from deep.

Dragicevich has already visited Northwestern and Loyola (Illinois) and is also looking at Valparaiso. The Glenbrook North (Illinois) prospect would get to stay close to home should he pick either Northwestern or Loyola. But if he wants more playing time and an opportunity to shoot the three, well ...

The only problem with adding a kid like Dragicevich -- or any transfer for that matter -- is one of scholarship management. Dragicevich would have to sit out a year due to NCAA transfer rules and that would put him in the rather large, seven member freshman class for the 2013-14 season. If I'm Donahue, I want to try to spread the scholarships over four years as much as possible so we avoid having to bring in 7-8 members for the 2015 class.

Utah Jazz: The meaning behind meaningful minutes--Deseret News

SALT LAKE CITY -- Meaningful minutes was the mantra for Jazz Senior VP of Basketball Operations Kevin O'Connor and Head Coach Tyrone Corbin. As the Jazz embarked on the 2011-12 lockout-shortened season the questions about the young players, Gordon Hayward, Derrick Favors, Alec Burks and Enes Kanter were continual. How would they be worked in? How will they develop? How much time will they get?

Utah Jazz: Carroll to start again for depleted Jazz--Deseret News

Coach Tyrone Corbin said he'll keep the same starting lineup tonight against the Rockets (6 p.m., ROOT) that took the court Monday against San Antonio.

That means third-year forward DeMarre Carroll will start again along with Devin Harris, Gordon Hayward, Paul Millsap and Al Jefferson.

Gordon Hayward-led Utah Jazz pick up big win in Houston against Rockets, 103-91--Deseret News
Utah Jazz-Houston Rockets: Report Card--Deseret News

In a game with huge postseason implications, the Utah Jazz earned perhaps their biggest win of the year so far by beating Houston 103-91. Gordon Hayward spearheaded the Utah attack with 29 points and six assists. Goran Dragic paced Houston with 19 points and seven assists.

Guards: Gordon Hayward came out of fire, scoring 12 of his points in the first quarter for the Jazz (31-28). He was brilliant the whole evening, making big play after big play. Backcourt mate Devin Harris was bogged down with foul trouble, totaling just six points in 21 minutes. Jamaal Tinsley was great in his place, playing a heady seven-point, four-assist game.

For the Rockets (32-26), Dragic continued his torrid play as he earned 14 free-throw attempts, most coming at Harris’ expense. Courtney Lee was so-so with nine points on just 4-of-11 shooting. Houston's Kyle Lowry, who is coming back from a long hiatus, penetrated at will at the start of the fourth quarter and had 15 points in the end. GRADE: B+

Utah Jazz: Blake Ahearn stayed ready for another NBA shot--Deseret News

LEAD MAN: Ask Al Jefferson knows good things happen when Gordon Hayward plays like he did Wednesday during his 29-point, six-assist outing.

"I don't remember one time he (has) been the leading scorer and we lost," Jefferson said.

Utah has a great, albeit not perfect, record in those contests. The Jazz are 5-2 when Hayward happens.

Jefferson knocked on his wooden locker after mentioning that Hayward is the only Jazz player to play in all 59 games.

"He play a lot of minutes," Big Al said. "When we get on the plane, before we take off he's already asleep. It just show the type of heart he have."

Utah Jazz: Millsap day-to-day after suffering sprained wrist--Deseret News

Millsap finished Wednesday's game with 21 points, second behind Gordon Hayward's season-high 29. He also had seven rebounds. The durable forward, who has a high pain tolerance, has only missed 13 games in his entire NBA career, including just one this season for a severely bruised heel.

Gordon Hayward lifts resilient Jazz past Rockets, 103-91--Salt Lake Tribune
Utah Jazz Notes: Millsap day-to-day after spraining wrist--Salt Lake Tribune

Best five

Even before Millsap’s injury, Corbin was left with few options in selecting Utah’s starting lineup.

Devin Harris, Gordon Hayward and Al Jefferson are locked in, while DeMarre Carroll has recently filled in for Miles.

Corbin could start rookie Alec Burks at shooting guard and move Gordon Hayward back to small forward. Carroll has played well in two of the Jazz’s last three games, though, while Hayward excelled Wednesday as Utah’s primary shooter.

Wizards vs. Magic: Seraphin helps Washington roar past Orlando, 93-85--Washington Post

But Washington got the final basket of the quarter and began the second period with a 9-3 flourish that included eight points combined from Seraphin and Martin. By the time backup point guard Shelvin Mack made 1 of 2 foul shots, the Wizards had drawn to 32-27.

2012 College Basketball Recruiting: Indiana, Purdue Finish With Top 20 Classes--SB Nation Indiana

Butler Bulldogs

Brad Stevens did some good work with his three-man recruiting class, getting one of the state's most prolific scorers in Kellen Dunham from Pendleton Heights. Dunham rates as the No. 78 player nationally according to ESPN, higher than any of Purdue's for signees. He should fit well into Butler's system as a pure jump shooter who can also use his 6'5" size to get to the basket.

Dunham will be joined by 6' point guard Chris Harrison-Docks, a three-star prospect from Okemos, MI and 6'3" shooting guard Devontae Morgan from Tampa, FL. Only seniors Ronald Nored and Garrett Butcher graduate this season, so the Bulldogs should have a lot more experience as they try to return to the NCAA Tournament.

Men’s basketball: Recruit Dunham third in Mr. Basketball voting--Butler Collegian

Miami Heat fans have reason to worry--Miami Herald

Uncomfortable is the right word. Spoelstra is making the type of lineup adjustments with the playoffs around the corner that Doc Rivers was making two months ago. Mike Miller missed 14 games because of an ankle injury. Norris Cole has hit the rookie wall. Terrel Harris is figuring out how to fit in. James Jones needs more minutes. Mario Chalmers needs more assists. Udonis Haslem needs to make a difference more often. Newly acquired Ronny Turiaf has replaced Joel Anthony as starting center. Shane Battier is showing his age. Dwyane Wade is showing his mileage.

Late-season struggles no concern for Heat--South Florida Sun Sentinel

Cole a numbers casualty?

Rookie guard Norris Cole played a season-low four minutes against the Celtics, continuing his downward swing. Cole's struggles caused him to lose minutes in the rotation to Terrel Harris.

Harris did not play Tuesday versus Boston, but Spoelstra said the recent addition of Ronny Turiaf and return of Mike Miller from injury have also affected Cole's playing time.

Cleveland State adds Louisiana guard Josh Ivory to 2012-13 roster--Cleveland Plain Dealer

Women's Basketball Signs Adesuwa Aideyman--csuvikings.com

Men's basketball: UWGB's Williams heads to Minnesota State-Mankato--Green Bay Press Gazette

Women's basketball: UWGB retains 2 assistants--Green Bay Press Gazette
Women's basketball: Is Wojta a top-10 choice in WNBA draft?--Green Bay Press Gazette

Thursday Film Session--PantherU
Jordan Aaron signs with Milwaukee--PantherU
Jordan Aaron speaks to PantherU--PantherU

Jim Squire

Utah Jazz Extra: Players celebrate Easter in different ways--Deseret News

WHO'S HOT/NOT

HOT: Gordon Hayward

Second-year swingman has hit double digits in a career-best seven straight and continues to play good all-around ball.

NOT: Alec Burks

The rookie hasn't hit double figures in April and has seen his playing time slip a bit after a couple of weeks with big minutes.

Forget the Alamo: Utah Jazz lose in San Antonio after poor first half--Deseret News

"We'll always fight to the end. I think we've shown that throughout the season," Jazz shooting guard Gordon Hayward said. "It's just you can't come back on every single team, especially on the road."

Especially (times two) when you're playing the Western Conference's top team, which has now won 11 games in a row.

"They're too good for that," Hayward added.
...
"That's the beautiful part of this two-game stretch," Hayward said. "We can get a little bit of revenge hopefully."

Especially if the Jazz play like they did in the second half when they outscored the Spurs 64-57 and, according to Jefferson, picked up some confidence.

"Our fans are going to help us out, but (the second half) proved that we can play with these guys," Jefferson said. "We played them pretty good, but we're a young team. We make mistakes and they don't really make too many mistakes."

The Spurs have beaten the Jazz in three consecutive games this season, including a 106-102 win in Utah on Feb. 20, but they're expecting a doozey tonight.

"It's going to be another tough one," Parker said, "as it's always tough to play in Utah."

Ginobili noted that both teams had a two-hour-plus flight after Sunday night's game. The Jazz's physicality, he said, also makes it a tough task.

Utah hopes so.

"We need to come out and punch them in the mouth first," Hayward said. "They did it to us (Sunday), so it's what we've got to do to them (tonight)."

Harris leads Jazz past starless Spurs, 91-84--Deseret News

Paul Millsap had a couple of big buckets late in the fourth quarter, including a huge putback slam. Gordon Hayward added 16 points, and Al Jefferson chipped in 12 points.

Watson needs knee surgery; Miles is out indefinitely--Deseret News

SWAT LAKE CITY: The Jazz defense can take direct credit for 13 of the Spurs' 52 missed shots. Utah, fourth in the NBA in rejections, had a baker's dozen worth of blocks.

"We have to protect this house," Jazz shooting guard Gordon Hayward said. "No easy buckets."

Six Jazz players had blocks, including four with multiple swats. Jefferson had a team-high four, Evans totaled three in under 18 minutes, while Hayward and Paul Millsap sent back two apiece.

Jazz win the battle of the unknown players--Deseret News

Thus, the no-name game went forward. Paul Millsap, Gordon Hayward, Matt Bonner, Stephen Jackson and others are familiar to serious hoop fans, but to once-a-year-type fans, who would they recognize?

"I like to think all of them," Jazz coach Ty Corbin said.

Utah Jazz: Devin Harris’ hot streak continues--Salt Lake Tribune

Consistent pregame work with teammate Gordon Hayward and assistant coach Jeff Hornacek has refocused Harris’ aim.

So did a chat with his father.

Kragthorpe: Jazz struggle to beat star-less Spurs--Salt Lake Tribune

Even in the Jazz’s injury-weakened condition, Corbin had Paul Millsap, Derrick Favors, Al Jefferson, Gordon Hayward and Harris on the floor at the end against Matt Bonner, Danny Green, Tiago Splitter, Stephen Jackson and Gary Neal.

Utah Jazz’s strong chemistry more crucial than ever--Salt Lake Tribune

The ability of castoffs such as DeMarre Carroll and Tinsley to co-exist with Utah’s 22-and-younger set — Gordon Hayward, Derrick Favors, Alec Burks and Enes Kanter — has been crucial to the club’s resilience.

Devin Harris, Utah Jazz overtake short-handed Spurs--Salt Lake Tribune

Gordon Hayward re-entered the game with 7:02 left and seemed to trigger the defensive intensity.

"We were more active," he said. "We made passes difficult. They are a good team. They run their offense pretty well. They make sharp cuts and sharp passes. So they are hard to defend. But I think we were a little more active toward the end."

Wizards vs. Bobcats: Balanced attack leads Washington to rout of Charlotte, 113-85--Washington Post

With 5.9 seconds left in the third period, Vesely came up about a foot short on an eight-foot jumper, but Bobcats forward Derrick Brown grabbed the air ball, shuffled his feet and was called for traveling. The Wizards got the ball back and Shelvin Mack (11 points) made a jumper that hit the back of the rim and splashed through the net. Mack’s teammates gleefully celebrated as he headed back to the bench because they realized that while this has been a taxing season, there is another team that has had it considerably worse.

Butler basketball's Andrew Smeathers out six months after hip surgery--The Indy Star
Hip surgery sidelines Smeathers--Indy Star Butler Insider

Miami Heat’s Erik Spoelstra comfortable with rotation--Miami Herald

Behind point guard Mario Chalmers, rookie Norris Cole saw the court for 2:58 of the first quarter. Rookie guard Terrel Harris didn’t see it at all Tuesday; Spoelstra said he wanted to use Harris with a pair of ballhandlers in the future.

Miami Heat’s blowout loss to Boston Celtics lingers--Miami Herald

In addition to the center switch, Spoelstra has benched rookie Norris Cole in favor of rookie Terrel Harris. Harris will square off against Rondo and shooting guard Avery Bradley on Tuesday. Although Rondo thoroughly dominated the Heat in Boston, Bradley, pesky and athletic, caused the Heat’s defense some problems as well.

Celtics, Heat make late-season rotation moves--South Florida Sun Sentinel

Miami recently moved Ronny Turiaf into the starting lineup and made Terrel Harris a rotation player ahead of struggling rookie guard Norris Cole. Turiaf allows former starter Joel Anthony to "provide energy off the bench" and Harris is eager to prove his worth.