Videos to check out

Hey guys...checking in on a Sunday to leave you with some great videos.



- Michael Wilbon of PTI vs. Wes Malott of the PBA Tour. If Wilbon wins, he gets an exemption on the PBA Tour.



- Hilo High's Ryan Fukunaga had a monster game against Keaau High on Wednesday from Walter Victor Field. Fukunaga belted two 2-Run Home Runs to go along with a sweet 6-3 Double Play. Many thanks to the good folks at the Hawaii Sports Page for sending in the great shots!

NCAA Men's Basketball Championship: LIVE Blog

It is that time! The 5 month journey of college hoops ends tonight at Ford Field. The prohibitive favorite is North Carolina, with Psycho-T, Ty Lawson, and an underrated group of role players. Meanwhile, the Michigan State Spartans are technically at home, they will have the crowd in their favor, and they are the hottest team in the tournament.

My Pick: North Carolina

Live blog starts in a bit!

How do you get in touch with us?

E-Mail: Joshpachecoshow@espnhawaii.com
Text: 21227
Twitter: Joshontheradio

(3:25 pm) - Deon Thompson gets the first bucket of the game for UNC. Let's see how much he can contribute. Meanwhile, Goran Suton with a beautiful three right over Psycho-T straight away to give Michigan State the lead, followed by an answer by Danny Green. He hasn't cooled off since Saturday nights win against Villanova

(3:27) - Both teams will run, which should create for a very fun pace. The quicker that Michigan State can baskets offensively, the better they will be. The longer possessions go, the advantage to North Carolina. 8-3 UNC early.

(3:29) - North Carolina has forced three turnovers early, and the last one forces a Suton foul.

(3:30) - Throughout the day, I'll be posting predictions from people you know. Parker McLaughlin posted his via Twitter: "Carolina is going to win but MSU is going to make it a great fight!"

Parker, I couldn't agree more!

(3:32) - As we head to our first media timeout, the Tar Heels haven't cooled from Saturday night's 10 3-pt shooting barrage. Ellington just added one a moment ago, and the Heels are up early.

(3:35) - North Carolina is up 12 early, forcing another turnover, and getting a second straight bucket off of an offensive rebound. 21-7 UNC early.

(3:37) - Interesting stat on Personal Fouls: Michigan State has already been called for 5, while UNC hasn't been whistled yet.

(3:39) - Finally, Carolina gets whistled for two fouls, both on Danny Green. Ellington replaces him, and you really aren't losing anything there. That is how deep and talented the Heels are. 22-8 UNC. Make it 24 as Deon Thompson now has 6 points.

(3:40) - Offensively, the Spartans are not getting quality shots. Too many outside jumpers, where they should be trying to get things inside, and try to attack the interior, especially with Hansbrough out of the game right now.

(3:42) - 24-11 UNC lead going into the under 12 TV Timeout. Outrebounding and outshooting Michigan State. Simple stats explaining why they are way ahead.

(3:49) - Got a call from Jase of our sister station Native FM. I'll be on tonight between 7 and Midnight to recap the championship game in the NCAA Tournament. Meanwhile, Michigan State turns it over again (the 8th time in the game). They also haven't gotten a basket in the last 6 minutes.

(3:52) - Once you start going down early, you tend to start jacking up contested long bombs. It seems extremely early to do so with 9:44 left in the 1st half and down 22 points, but we are already seeing it from Michigan State. I'm not calling this one over yet. Remember Kansas?

(3:54) - Michigan State has a couple of field goals in a row, but they need the defensive stop to help them out. They got a break with the Hansbrough Goaltend, but they need to put up a 6 to 8 point unanswered run to make a dent in this scoreboard.

(3:56) - Michigan State just turned the ball over for the 9th time after allowing an easy offensive rebound and bucket. I have a feeling this will be a LONG night.

(4:01) - Tough break for Raymar Morgan, getting popped in the face. He's had a tough year, and is definitely a tough kid. Hate to see him leave the game. Ellington just hit a huge three to put UNC up 43-20. This is getting out of hand.

(4:05) - Yet another turnover for Michigan State. Their tenth. North Carolina has 13 points off turnovers. The wheels are definitely coming off in a 23 point game. Goran Suton just got a bucket that they really needed, but can they make a defensive stop?

(4:07) - Via text message at 21227, JE writes: "It's over?" My response: "It was over five minutes ago"

(4:08) - Another TV Timeout here as UNC leads by 23, and it reminds me of what a texter said earlier today during the JPS: "The only way state wins is if they tie Carolinas shoe laces together. Carolina has too many horses for State." You are so right, Bill.

(4:13) - Gotta repost something Via Twitter. Former UConn Husky and now Milwaukee Buck Charlie Villanueva said something kinda funny: "Are u kidding me, this game reminds me when we spank Georgia Tech in the championship game by 20"

(4:14) - Michigan State has gotten within 18 and is shooting the ball a bit better. If they can end the half strong, we might just have a game after all.

(4:18) - Local Comedian Lanai via Twitter: "UNC FACTS: Get 38 Local braddas and sista's going to that school right now and the cafeteria doesnt serve rice." Haha. Facts like those will keep me entertained during this blowout.

(4:21) - 55-34 UNC lead at the half. Largest lead in Championship game history. Back for the second half in a little bit. Time to watch some baseball.

(4:43) - Time to start the second half. MSU must start hot and get back in this game fast. But right off the bat, a Sparty turnover, followed by a Tar Heels giveaway, and a Suton lay-in. Gotta trim the game down quick.

(4:49) - Just over four minutes gone by, and Michigan State has made no headway. That changes with a Suton 3 to get within 18. Ty Lawsom just set a championship game record with 8 steals, and off of the last one, UNC gets a bucket to lead 61-41.

(4:56) - Skip Bayless of ESPN First Take on ESPN2: "I knew my prediction was doomed when Greg AND Seth Davis picked Mich St"..."NC played most dominant half I've seen in title game". I've simply chosen to just ignore Skip Bayless...you?

(4:59) - Crowd is back in it here. 16 point game, which once was 24. But Michigan State still isn't snaring some of these key boards. Second chance bucket is a 3 for Danny Green to make it a 19 point lead, and MSU to the free throw line after the under 12 Time out.

(5:02) - Via InsideHoops.com: "MSU is going to win 193 to 68". Ouch.

(5:10) - 9:32 to go in the game, and it is a 15 point game now in favor of UNC. Still not convinced that this comeback will go far, especially with UNC getting it inside easily and grabbing offensive boards.

(5:12) - 7:33 to go, the lead is back to 19, and the chances are looking slimmer and slimmer. 72-53 UNC.

(5:22) - MSU has gotten it back to 15 with a Suton 3 pointer. How long does Roy Williams go with Ed Davis on the floor? Not long. 4 of the starting five is back on the floor along with Frasor. For Tar Heels fans, its time to stomp on the throat of the Spartans, as Lawsom hits a 2 to get the lead back to 17.

(5:26) - Now down to 13. Even the Magic man is on his feet trying to get his team back in it. But Korie Luscious is down, and that is bad news as Korey is a long range threat.

(5:38) - I gotta give a ton of credit to Michigan State. They have not once given up despite being down consistantly in double digits. This will go down as one of the uglier championship games in history, but Sparty never laid down once.

(5:47) - Not much you could say about this game. Absolute domination by North Carolina en route to an 89-72 win over Michigan State. Wayne Ellington is the Top player of the tournament, and well deserved indeed. This tournament lacked a little bit of excitement, and this championship game definitely echoed that.

Congratulations to the Tar Heels on another National Championship!

Michigan State vs. North Carolina - And Spartan Haters?

Thanks to all of you who kept track of the live blog here at ESPNHawaii.com of the Final Four. We will do it all again for the championship game at 3 pm on Monday....after the Sparty/Husky live game blog, an "anynymous" Spartans fans chimed in with this

As a Spartan fan it was fun to stumble across your blog. After listening to the commentators tell us how we couldn't beat Louisville, how we couldn't beat USC, how we couldn't beat Kansas... jesus, we had people doubting us against Robert Morris... your earliest comments in the game were coming straight out of UConn's, um, press kit. Give MSU some credit. We've said all year we prefer a run n gun game. You're in a long line of people who didn't believe us.

First of all, I didn't read UConn's press kit, but if I was spot on, then I take that as a compliment, so thanks.

Secondly, yes, most of the media out there didn't think that you would have much of a chance. I won't argue that point. With that said, that is one of the joys of the tourney, where we all get proven wrong and see teams prove us all wrong. I don't mind being proven wrong. After all, I did have BYU in my Final Four. Look how well that went.

But, here's the honest truth. Michigan State was an underdog going into their game against Connecticut. And, you are an UNDERDOG AGAIN against North Carolina. Michigan State will play a very good game, but I believe that the more grizzled team, the team with a bit more experience, which would be North Carolina, will win it late.

So, yeah, I guess I am in a long line of people that didn't believe in you. And I'm staying in that line. I picked North Carolina before the season started, and I'm not jumping off of the bandwagon now.

We'll preview the game after Rays/Red Sox on Monday around 11 am, and then bring you the live blog right here at 3 pm.

NCAA Basketball Live Blog ROUND TWO: Nova/UNC

So, we know that Michigan State has moved on to the NCAA Championship Game. Will they play the surprise Wildcats of the Big East or the Season Long favorite Tar Heels from the ACC?

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Twitter: Joshontheradio
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My pick: UNC over Villanova

(3:22) - For some reason I find Jim Nantz's introductions of the starting lineups to be real boring. Where's JE? UNC wins the tip, two rare missed free throws from Tyler Hansbrough, and already two offensive rebounds by Villanova. North Carolina has trailed for the first time since the game against Gonzaga. Nice stat. Heels are real rusty early.

(3:24) - I'm kinda curious as to how much of the 70+ thousand people stayed around for this game, especially since the home state team already played. After a Lawson three, Villanova just grabbed its third offensive rebound of the game. The 'Cats can't be afraid to get to the rim, right now they are acting like the they are afraid. But, if they are going to keep hitting shots, just like Corey Fisher just did, maybe its ok.

(3:28) - Villanova gets another Offensive board into a flush, but yet they trail to the better shooting Tar Heels 10-8 at the first TV Timeout.

(3:33) - Villanova is not in a good position. Down by 9 points and watching the Heels shoot extremely well. Another offensive board by Nova but a block by North Carolina. The Cats finally try to work something inside, but turn it over. The wildcats are shooting 4-16 from the field to start and now trail by 11 as they need an early timeout.

(3:38) - I'm fearing that CBS News may break into coverage soon of this game. Fox News is reporting the following:

"All North Korea would need to launch a rocket appears to be in place, a senior U.S. official told FOX News.

"It would seem everything is aligned and ready," the official said.

The weather conditions appear to be favorable with no precipitation or wind concerns."

(3:39) - Coach Wright has to find a way to work the ball inside. The CBS guys did say that a pick and roll would be a good idea, and I agree, but they are using it to work for outside shots. This one is starting to get ugly.

(3:41) - Clark Kellogg noticed a difference in the long range shooting of both teams. North Carolina is shooting in a nice, calm, comfortable rhythm, while Villanova is hurried and out of sync. The percentages back that up, as UNC is shooting 67%, while the Wildcats are shooting 30% from the field. 26-12 Carolina at the under 12 TV Timeout

(3:46) - North Carolina just hit its fifth three, and we are only halfway through the first half. Villanova is all over the place right now, and right now that doesn't mean anything good. 2 Missed free throws by Villanova, another offensive board, yet no point. Right now if you're Villanova, you can't have empty possessions like they are getting.

(3:51) - Nova finally has a three, but right now they seem really lost defensively. North Carolina is penetrating and kicking and getting the Wildcats out of position. 11 point Tar Heels lead at the Under 8 TV Timeout.

(3:57) - One thing that Villanova has done well is win the battle of Offensive Rebounding, 10-5 right now. But they aren't putting in the second chance points. Down 15 right now, then need to button down defensively and get on a run before the end of the half. There's another offensive board. Dante Cunningham was not boxed out and he had the easy finish. Yet, Danny Green gets another three-pointer. Six threes for UNC. That's a number Villanova wishes they had.

(4:02) - Via text message, our own JE chimes in."It's over...UNC vs. MSU equals UNC championship again." Well, remember last year when Kansas was down by a huge amount and made a run to get back in the game. Down 28 to be exact. We haven't gotten there yet, but it feels like a 28 point deficit which is right now 14.

(4:09) - Scotty Reynolds is starting to find a rhythm. Villanova has scored the last seven points, and Scotty has the latter 5. It's now a 9 point game as North Carolina is forced to call a Timeout to stop the momentum.

(4:11) - One of the reasons why Roy Williams is a great coach. Calls a timeout at the right time to stop the momentum, and follows the time out with a great play to pick up a 2 and get back up by 11.

(4:13) - 30 Seconds left in the half, and it is important for the Wildcats to get back in single digits before the half is over. Big bucket by Fisher in traffic, to get within 9, and now UNC Free Throws. Lawson goes 0-2 of the FT line, and Villanova trails by single digits going into the locker room.

After the First Half: North Carolina 49, Villanova 40

I'll be back closer to the start of the second half to bring you some key numbers and keep the live blog going!

Key 1st Half Numbers:

Nova: 2-12 3-Pt's, 12 Off Reb
UNC: 9 Ast, 6-11 3 Pt Shooting

(4:38) - We are underway in the second half, and Villanova commits a stupid foul on a jump shooter exactly a minute in. UNC goes 1-2 from the line, and Villanova follows with a three to get within seven.

(4:40) - Breaking news on the North Korean rocket. From Breaking News Online:

BULLETIN -- NHK SAY NORTH KOREAN ROCKET WAS LAUNCHED AT 11:32 JST

(4:41) Momentum is right now on the side of Villanova. Clark gets a second chance bucket, then Psycho-T gets called for an offensive foul. 22-10 run for the Wildcats. Can anyone quiet the Tar Heels outside shooting? Danny Green with yet another 3. And then UNC extends the lead off a steal, bucket, and harm.

(4:43) - More details on the breaking news in North Korea from Breaking News Online:

NHK says the North Korea rocket now moving over the Pacific Ocean.

(4:46) - Villanova needs to be careful that they dont fall into the all long range, all the time shooting spree. Three straight 3's missed in one posession. Green hits his fourth three pointer, and extends the lead back out to 13 as we hit the under 16 media timeout.

(4:52) - Via twitter, iDews contributes: "nova trying to live by the 3s, we all know how that works." Yeah, ask St. Joseph boys basketball. They will tell you in great detail.

(4:55) - Big 4th foul on Dwayne Anderson for Villanova, as he has double-digit rebounds for Nova, and right away as he comes out, UNC gains an advantage on the boards, followed by a bucket and harm to take a 61-49 lead going into the TV Timeout.

(5:03) - Ty Lawson has worn his third different jersey in this game. He went from #5, to #25, and they have brought out another #5 jersey, as his first one was bloodied. Villanova is 3/23 from beyond the arc. Terrible number.

(5:07) - 4th foul on Tyler Hansbrough forces him to sit out, and while that sounds like a big deal, UNC is so balanced, that I don't think it is that big of a deal. Wild shot on the fast break by Fisher when they shouldve just taken their time. Big three for Ellington 3-Pointer number 10 for the Heels to go back up by 15.

(5:11) - Hate to say it, but watch the Wildcats right now, and you'll see that they are out of gas. Worked too hard to try to keep the game close. Jump shots are having a harder time going down. I believe that this one may be too far out of reach.

(5:12) - Via twitter, people are talking about the N. Korea rocket launch. One person in Oahu says, "Hickam AFB just scrambled F-15's and an AWACS... I can see from OWT 16th floor lanai."

(5:14) - You start to see the metal of a team when their backs are against the wall. Villanova is losing the team concept right now. Big three by Redding, followed by a turnover, a bucket, and a UNC foul. Uh oh. Villanova back within 13 with 4:20 left.

(5:20) - This game is certainly not over, as Nova is down by 12, and while they need to hurry their comeback, they also need to be smart.

(5:28) - Daunte Cunningham just fouled out, and gave one heck of an effort, as did the entire Villanova team, but I think we all know how good UNC is, as they are 2:15 away from a rematch with Sparty for the title.

(5:32) - Already getting predictions for MSU/UNC on Monday Night. JE says Carolina by 12. John via facebook says Michigan State. I'm going with a 7 point UNC win on Monday night.

(5:35) - That's it. 83-69 UNC win over Villanova, which means Tar Heels vs. Spartans in Mondays championship.

Join me on Monday's JPS at 11 am to break down the game, and then we will live blog it right here at ESPNHawaii.com on Monday afternoon. Look forward to seeing you there!

NCAA Basketball Final Four: LIVE Blog

Today is the day for the NCAA Men's Basketball Semi-Finals, ala the Final Four...before we start the LIVE blog, it is time for me to make my picks:

Michigan State vs. UConn - UConn (in OT)

Villanova vs. North Carolina - North Carolina (they were my pick to win it all from the very beginning).

Sparty/Husky matchup begins in a few minutes. I'll be live blogging throughout this one....

(12:11 pm) - Early on, we at least see a glimpse of what UConn will do with Goran Suton, the big man with dangerous range. The smaller husky, Jeff Adrian, starts off on the big, with Hasheem Thabeet playing D around the paint. It's practically a 4 on 5 with one man in a zone.

(12:13) - Lucas 3 for Michigan State puts them up by 5, and a UConn turnover gives the Huskies their biggest deficit of the tourney. Wow. If you've only trailed at most 5, and now 7 with another two-pointer, you must be darn good.

(12:16) - The big man Thabeet causes our first injury of the game, knocking out MSU's Travis Walton. I love the hustle by the Spartans early on. Right now, they WANT it more than UConn does. They are grabbing too many offensive boards early.

(12:19) - Michigan State is attacking the inside early on, despite a few blocks from Thabeet and Jeff Adrian for UConn. They know if they can keep attacking, they can draw some whistles, and maybe knock some key players out of the game. Michigan State 14, UConn 10 at the first Media Timeout

(12:25) - The lovefest for Kemba Walker begins. I know he had a great game in the Regional Final, but let's slow it down just a little bit. Also, I HATE these raised floors. This is seriously gonna get someone hurt just for hustling.

(12:27) - UConn is on a nice run. Six straight after the timeout. They are getting Sparty in foul trouble, working the rock inside, and making the on the fly adjustments. Ibok already out with two fouls for Michigan State.

(12:28) - Hasheem Thabeet out to rest after a three-point play. Let's see how different the game is for UConn without their big man. Our second TV Timeout give us a UConn 19-16 lead over MSU.

(12:34) - I like how UConn has toughened up over the last several minutes, and Jeff Adrian has been the point person for that. 8 points early on to go with a block and good D. Michigan State is starting to go away from the inside attack, and looking more for outside shots, which has not been a strong success for them. Plus, UConn didn't drop off with Thabeet on the bench, and he is starting to impose himself on both sides of the floor.

(12:39) - Thabeet and Adrian combining for 15 of the 27 UConn points, and the Huskies lead at the next TV Timeout 27-23

(12:44) - Yet another UConn block, this time by Gavin Edwards on the fast break. And 4 Huskies went for the loose ball, and nearly crashed and burned on the raised court. Again, I DISLIKE the raised court. Michigan State is 2-7 from beyond the arc, something they can't rely on as the game progresses.

(12:47) - Via twitter, go2pinnacle says "Mich/UCONN game is basketball at it's finest." I personally think that fans are just happy that we have a competitive, close game so far. Kemba Walker just missed two free throws for Uconn, a rarity since they have been very good from the line during the tournament. UConn 29, Michigan St. 27 at the next media timeout.

(12:53) - Via twitter, Baron Davis (yes, B-Diddy from the Clippers) says "70k at the final four. That's a lot of people." Yes it is, a record. Unfortunately, the game is being played in Ford Field, which has NEVER been kind to the Detroit Lions, so why should it be kind to Michigan State? Big three earlier for Korie Luscious, and he'll try for three more at the charity stripe as Michigan State has the lead once again.

(12:57) - Welcome to the Final Four, boys. We have our first near fracas of the day.Remember, guys, this game is physical. No need to get chippy. Just a tough basketball play. If anything, I think we get a T on Jeff Adrian for a little unnecessary shove on Jeff Adrian, which started this. But, no T will be called. The foul on Walton for Michigan St. stands. Good job by the refs for clearing everything up.
(1:01) - Via twitter, iDews says "agreed, live or die by the three, and just as I tweet, they hit one! Go MSU!" Reference to the Luscious three, and he hit another one just a second ago. But, the big man Thabeet runs the floor and gets a fast break bucket, and a bump. Clark Kellog's voice just raised about three decibals when talking about Thabeet. Man crush?

(1:03) - Also via twitter, Dave Reardon of the Honolulu Star-Bulletin chimes in "UConn = thugs?". LOL....nah, I don't think that word would be accurate. Passionate? Yes. Timeout Michigan State tied at 36

(1:08) - You want a story of a freshman making a difference? Delvon Roe of Michigan State may be your guy. Big bucket before the end of the half to give MSU the lead. He's been quiet since being active in the first several minutes of the game.

Michigan State 38, UConn 36 At Halftime!

Key 1st Half Stats:

MSU: 9 Off Reb, 40% Shooting, 12 Fouls
UConn: 52% Shooting, 6 Fouls, 4 Blocks

(1:30) - We start the second half with UConn on a 6-0 run. The one thing UConn has done well with in this game is adjustments, and I think we are seeing that at the start of this half. Add another two for Thabeet, and UConn is 4-5 shooting to start the half.

(1:31) - Big foul on Goran Suton as he is called for his third on the offensive end. Suton has been a non-factor. As iDews said on twitter earlier, "Goran Suton, where are you?" Coach Izzo is keeping him in the game, surprisingly.

(1:33) - Out of nowhere, Sparty starts to get on a roll, with six in a row, including the first points for Suton, and MSU retakes the lead, paving the way for a Calhoun time out.

(1:36) - Suton finally leaves with his 3 fouls at the 16:56 mark of the second half. Ibok in with a few fouls, so lets see if they go right to Thabeet. Nope, and no Huskies basket. I do want to say, btw, that I am a fan of Clark Kellogg's work, but I don't like him on Color. He's better in the studio, right now I feel he's trying too hard. TV Timeout here as we are tied at 46

(1:43) - A couple of big fouls to note for Michigan State. Ibok just picked up his third foul. He's matched up with Thabeet, so I think that makes him very vulnerable on the floor. Draymond Green just picked up his third as well. He's matched up with Adrian, whos been a solid player in this game. Stanley Robinson gets a bucket for UConn and then a big block on the other end. But, Michigan State recovers and gets a fast break flush. The Spartans are running, which despite the conference affiliation, suits them well. The Big Ten isnt known for being a run and gun offense. Michigan State is on fire! Up 4 53-49 with 13 Minutes to go and a timeout.

(1:55) - Big 3 for Michigan State and Summers to extend their lead to 6. Michigan State has improved its 3-Pt shooting percentage to 33%. I really think they are starting to wear UConn out.

(1:58) - Important Stat: Bench Scoring (Michigan State - 22, UConn - 5)

(2:07) - Dunk of the year? Durrell Summers jam on Stanley Robinson has to be one of the best I've seen all year! Summers has been a part of the deep bench that Michigan State has employed, scoring 28 of their 66 points. UConn needs some bench support quick.

(2:10) - Via Facebook, Reid says "damn!!! What a dunk by Summers." Indeed.

(2:11) - Thabeet just swatted away another one, and on the other end, AJ Price is at the line hitting two free throws. Price is the 4th starter in double figures in points for UConn. Kalin Lucas just hit a clutch three for MSU to put them up 9, and then Morgan with a fast break flush to go up 11 with just over 3 Minutes to play.

(2:14) - Via text message, our own JE says "MSU Championship bound if they keep up the rebounding"....that stat is even right now, but I don't think that was expected by many.

(2:17) - Can UConn make up an 11 point deficit with 1:54 remaining? I'm not so convinced, especially with how Michigan State has dialed up their defense.

(2:23) - UConn is determined to close this gap within 32 seconds of game time, they've brought this game down to 6, plus a very questionable whistle on Goran Suton with 1:26 to go on Suton. Big injury as Thabeet has to come out of the game as he limps off.

(2:26) - Lead down to 4 as UConn makes that a 4 point trip with Austrie's two free throws. Still a lot of time with it a two possession game. Big missed throw for MSU, and Robinson gets a HUGE rebound jam to get within three, followed by Michigan State breaking the press and getting a bucket and a foul. Terrible time for a defensive lapse.

(2:29) - Michigan State starting to struggle a bit from the free throw line. 7 point game with 48 seconds to go. Missed layup on Price, foul on Thabeet, and nowthis game appears to be close to out of reach.

(2:31) - UConn within 7 after a layup with 30 seconds left. They need to force a turnover off this inbound or foul and hope for two missed free throws. Not over yet, but definitely far away from them.

(2:35) - It's just not meant to be for UConn. The "home" team Michigan State wins in front of 72,000+ by the score of 82-73 over the Huskies. Sparty plays either Villanova or North Carolina.

FINAL SCORE: Michigan State 82, UConn 73

Alright, second game will be up in about 30 minutes. I'll be up with another live blog for Wildcats and Heels shortly. See you then!

NCAA Tournament Games on TV (And my picks)

Thursday, March 19th:

6:30 am: Texas A&M vs. BYU (Announcers: Dick Enberg, Jay Bilas)

PICK: BYU

8:55 am: Maryland vs. California (Announcers: Tim Brando, Mike Gminski)

PICK: CALIFORNIA

1:10 pm: Minnesota vs. Texas (Announcers: Jim Nantz, Clark Kellogg)

PICK: MINNESOTA

3:55 pm: Virginia Commonwealth vs. UCLA (Announcers: Carter Blackburn, Jay Bilas)

PICK: UCLA

Method to My Madness: Filling out my NCAA Tournament Bracket - 1st Round

Now that the field of 65 has been determined, it is time for me to fill out my 2009 NCAA Men's Division I Tournament Bracket. Just so you know, as we are currently at selection sunday, I make my predictions as soon as I get the teams. I don't like to wait a couple of days to stew things over.

First things first: Sure fire locks to win in the first round. This at least gets me going with some of my favorites. And they are:

MIDWEST REGION:

(1) Louisville - Even though they are the #1 Overall seed, they have the toughest road to the title, because there are so many uncertainties in this bracket, and although Louisville won the Big East title, that doesn't erase the fact that they can be erratic at times.

(3) Kansas - I think they will beat ND St. in the first round. After all, this is North Dakota St.'s first year of eligibility in Division I, therefore their first time in the big dance. Nothing like facing the defending champs to break in your tourney experience.

WEST:

(1) UConn - After all, they open against UT-Chattanooga. Good luck to the Mocs.

(11) Utah State - 30 wins, 4 losses, and a #11 seed? Thats total disrespect to the WAC. They should knock off #6 Marquette, who lost one of their best players to injury earlier in the season, and haven't been the same.

(3) Missouri - The Aggies from Utah would be the Tigers next opponent if Mizzou can get through Cornell. I think the Tigers are going to be too physical for the Big Red.

(2) Memphis - I'd hate to be CS-Northridge. Facing a team with a chip on it's shoulders. Prepare for a beatdown.

EAST:

(1) Pittsburgh - For obvious reasons. They do open up with East Tennessee State

(5) Florida State - Wisconsin is the first round opponent for the 'Noles, and I hate Big Ten play this year.

(3) Villanova - Playing at home in the first two rounds. Nuff said.

(2) Duke - Sorry Binghamton, but Coach K is the all time winningest coach in Tourney history.

SOUTH:

(1) North Carolina - Ty Lawson will be back, and the Tar Heels should have no problem against Radford

(4) Gonzaga - They've got a favorable draw here in the first few rounds. Plus, I like Bulldogs over Zips anyday of the week.

(3) Syracuse - There's just something special about Syracuse when the play in the Big Dance. SFA better bring their A+ game, or they will fall to the Orange.

(2) Oklahoma - Don't think anyone on the Morgan State squad can match up with Blake Griffin

Now that I've finished up my absolute LOCKS for the first round, time to do a little more research and finish my first round predictions.

UPDATE: 6:11 pm - Just finished my first round projections, and I am convinced that we won't see too many upsets on the first two days.

Upset Winners: 11 Utah State over 6 Marquette, 9 Siena def. 8 Ohio State, 10 USC beating 7 Boston College, 10 Minnesota def Texas.

I've even gone to a coin flip to help me decide 8 LSU s. 9 Butler in the South region. Winner. 8 LSU. These teams will battle in a close one, but I see LSU as the team with the most momentum heading into this game. Butler is probably still reeling from the upset in the conference championship game to Cleveland State.

Konawaena wins D1 State Title

(Photo Credit: Mike Burley/Star-Bulletin)

On Thursday night when I got the results from the Girls Division I Semifinal Games with Punahou and Konawaena, I had an idea that we were going to be in for something special. Both teams fought through adversity just to get to the championship, beating tough foes in Lahinaluna and Farrington, respectively. Little did I know that the "something special" would turn into, arguably, the greatest State Title game in memory.

The defending champs fought tooth and nail with the Wildcats from Kealakekua through the opening quarter, as the Buffanblu had an early 9-8 lead in the first eight minutes. Konawaena started to make their move in the second quarter, paced by Lia Galderia's three field goals and seven points from Kimberly Brown off the bench. Those two were the only Wildcats to score, and they outdid the Buffanblu 13-9 in the 2nd quarter to take a halftime advantage.

Brown and Galdeira continued their solid play in the 3rd quarter, combining for 11 of the teams 17 3rd period points to bulge their lead to 9. We also started to see Janelle Nomura try to take the team on her shoulders. She only got 4 points of her 20 in that period, but she started to wildly drive to the bucket, leading to three offensive fouls, two of them in the 3rd.

A nine point lead at the 3rd-4th quarter bridge would increase to eleven before Konawaena would begin to crumble. Nomura put 7 points on the board for Punahou in the 4th quarter, while Konawaena could only manage one field goal, which came from Lia Galdeira. Nomura tied the game with mere seconds remaining, and Galdeira missed an open three at the buzzer to send it to overtime tied at 44.

The 1st Overtime was fairly uneventful, with both teams having opportunities at the free throw line, but only able to hit one from the charity stripe, to send things to a 2nd Overtime tied at 45.

The 2nd Overtime was where Galdeira started to shine. She put in all of the Wildcats three extra session field goals (10/16 FG's on the night) to pull Konawaena ahead for good. Coach Bobby Awa was able to clear the bench with a few seconds remaining to allow her entire team the chance to get on the floor to play in the Championship game. Konawaena wins their 3rd State Title with a 54-50 win over Punahou.

The amazing thing is that with an announced 1,687 in attendance at the NBC, most of the fans were rooting for the Neighbor Island Wildcats. When the TV timeouts would take place, the Kona-favored crowd would sing loudly "Let's Go Kona! Kona, Let's Go!" And when the Punahou cheerleaders would run onto the floor to do their routines, they would get hearty boo's from the Wildcat faithful. I've never seen that kind of lopsided crowd in favor of a team that was truly, in all senses of the word, a visitor.

NOTES: The entire Vulcan Girls Basketball team had made their way to the Blaisdell from McCabe gym after their loss to Hawaii Pacific University. Senior Forward Jessica Hanato stayed back well after the game was over, wearing a Konawaena basketball t-shirt and celebrating with the rest of the Konawaena crowd at least a good 25 minutes plus after the finish. Also in attendance was Oahu Radio personality Billy V, who is a Konawaena grad. He was wearing a Green and White Konawaena Polo Shirt with black Konawaena shorts.

Devin Harris = Best. Shot. Ever.

I challenge you to find me a shot that is better than Devin's. E-Mail me at our radio inbox (joshpachecoshow@espnhawaii.com)

As promised, the Metal Wood Bat

Curtis Chong is holding up the Metal Wood bat, which will be used at the Stanley Costales Sr. Memorial Baseball Tournament. First off, it is an all wood bat, except for the metal handle. Secondly, I took that picture with my iPhone while talking on air live (Podagees supposed to be able to multi-task, ya?).

In case you missed the interview with Curtis and Royden Okunami on Tuesday's show, make sure to check out the Podcast now on ESPNHawaii.com, or just search for the show in the iTunes Music Store and get the free podcast right there!

ESPN Radio Highlights: Hawaii Pacific vs. Hawaii-Hilo (1/2/09)

FINALLY: Oahu Day Two - Rainbow Classic Day Two

Yeah, I know, I was supposed to put this up at the beginning of the week. Thanks to being under the weather for a little bit, and watching way too much football, plus a one-sided Rose Bowl Game (which I predicted to be that way), I figured now was a better time than ever to put up the final day blog from the 45th Annual Rainbow Classic.

Oh, why was I sick again?


Yep. That's the culprit. Chicken Strips and fries from the Stanley. I haven't felt the same since. Chicken Strips are best served with sauces...none given here (unless you just wanted to squirt ketchup and mustard, which defeats the point).



The first game of the day featured the Pepperdine Waves in Orange and the Buffalo Bulls in blue. This may have been the game from the first two days of the tournament, as Buffalo won in overtime on a game winning shot with 0.8 remaining on the clock. And yes, there were a few more people that came down to watch. Not much.

The second game featured Coppin State, a NCAA tournament team from last year, and the Buffaloes from Colorado. Colorado's head coach was the former coach of the Denver Nuggets, Jeff Bzedelik. Colorado played well in this game, and Coppin State tried to fly around and stay in it in the second half, but the Buffs were too strong for the Eagles.

Good trip all around for me, and it was fun to watch Division I Men's Basketball in person for the first time in my life.

Next Tuesday and Wednesday, by the way, Stan Costales and I will be back on the island of Oahu, bringing you UHH Vulcan Basketball against BYU-Hawaii!

Oahu Day Two - 45th Annual Rainbow Classic Opening Night

Being the total tourist I was going to the Stan Sheriff Center, I had to snap a shot of the building I was entering for the first time. The Stan Sheriff Center. I asked the ticket person to give me the best seat I could get, and she told me the lower bowl wasn't for sale, so I ended up with...



That seat assignment would get me this kind of view:


Okay, well it wasn't the greatest view in the world, and there were a lot of empty seats on the bottom, which were filled up for the Hawaii game, but it was a blessing in disguise. More on that toward the end.

George Washington was taking on the Vermont Catamounts in the first game. As I was trying to find my seat way up high, I ran into a George Washington Athletics person who was selling George Washington Gear.


I was thinking of grabbing one of those Colonials hats (same color as a cheesehead), but I don't think I have enough room in my bag to take it home. I stuffed my bag to the max with some of my new shirts, because I never like to underpack. Maybe I'll just get a shirt. Anyway, to the games.

Vermont 83, George Washington 72

Vermont controlled the game early, thanks to great play from Senior Colin McIntosh. He finished with 14 points, but the rest of the team kicked into gear, especially in the second half. Mike Timboli hit a few clutch three's, Marqus Blakely had a double-double, and Maurice Joseph led the team with 18 points. Rob Diggs led all scorers and rebounders with 25 and 14. Too bad he didn't have much help until it was too late.



Hawaii was getting ready for Colorado State in the nightcap. My seat was actually right next to a few season ticket holders. One of the guys' names was Doug. I don't remember the other. But they asked me if I knew the person that usually sits there. I said no, so she must have sold her season ticket for that game because she wasn't going to make it. Either way, they were joined by a Syracuse alum who sat behind us and his son, who is going to Syracuse right now. We chatted a lot about famous Syracuse announcing alums, like our own Mike Tirico, Marv Albert, and others.

What I didn't know is that the son once competed in the halftime challenge, where you have a rack of basketballs at half court, and you have to make as many shots as you can in a certain amount of time. He won $500 in that game years ago. So, I was fortunate to sit next to some long time season ticket holders who made the experience for me enjoyable.

Colorado State 74, Hawaii 58

The first half wasn't the most well played for Hawaii, with some sloppy point guard play from Kareem Nitoto, foul trouble from Sasha Parghalava, and Rod Flemings and Bill Amis taking a little while to get going. But some Colorado State turnovers and missed opportunities on their own end kept Hawaii in the game, and the Warriors lead by two at the break.



At halftime, they have the Jack in a Box blimp fly throughout the center and drop prizes to the loudest sections in the arena. It didn't come by us. To be honest, the people I was sitting with really didn't care. But, two rows behind us, there were these "Valley Girl" like college chicks (some were cute) who were making a bunch of noise, but they were the only ones. They also had the afore mentioned halftime contest hosted by Oahu radio personality Billy V.

The second half was all Colorado State. I was impressed with Jessie Carr, a Freshman guard out of the state of Nebraska, who I would describe as a pain in the neck to guard, and he picked apart Hawaii's defense in the second half. He only had 9 points, but his 4 assists may have been more important. Add to that Hawaii shooting 26% in the second half (6-23 from the field) and Colorado State ran away with it.

One more thing to note. During a media timeout late in the 2nd half, a UH-Hilo student was in attendance for a chance to win some big prizes ( don't remember what they were giving away). He had 45 seconds to hit a layup, free throw, three pointer, and a halfcourt shot. He struggled from the charity stripe before hitting one and then took a small while before he hit his three-pointer. In Saint Martin-esque style, he got the ball at half court with about 2 seconds left, threw it up, and banked it in! The whole crowd went nuts! Too bad the team couldn't feed off of that. Sign him up, coach!

So back to the guys I ended up sitting next to. They left with about a minute left to go in the game. Some were leaving with 6 minutes left when the media time out happened. Before they left, they asked me how long I was staying, and I told them I would be here until Monday morning. They left me with two free tickets for today's doubleheader (Buffalo/Pepperdine and Colorado/Coppin State) right in the same section, just a row higher.



Only problem is...I need to find someone who wants the other ticket or at least wants to go with me! I came on this trip on my own, so if you're reading, you're on Oahu, and you wanna go, send me an email!

Quickly, my thoughts on the rest of the sports world:

__________________________________________________________

- New England is going to put the pressure on the Miami Dolphins to win against the Jets. New England is winning in Buffalo and most likely will hold on with 3 minutes left to go. Meanwhile, the Houston Texans are spoiling the Bears chances of getting into the playoffs, and of course, I predicted that on Friday. And oh by the way, Detroit is doing their very best to get their first win of the year against Green Bay. Uh oh.

- Ben Rothleisberger is suffering from a concussion today. Luckily for Steelers fans, the Steelers have a bye in the first round of the postseason.

- Bill Parcells could go back to coaching. I'm not surprised. It all depends on whether Wayne Huizenga sells his share of his team. Part of the contract Parcells agreed to. Gotta imagine there would be a few teams interested in his services if that takes place.

Back tonight or Monday with the final Oahu trip blog!

Oahu Day 1 - The Blackout on Oahu

It's kinda ironic that on the day the movie "The Day the Earth Stood Still" comes out in theaters, many parts of Oahu stood still because of a massive blackout. We went from this late in the afternoon....


To this...


Around 6:45 pm here in Waikiki, the power went off, and as I looked outside my hotel room I watched the lights go out across the canal and uphill to more residential areas. I watched people from other hotels and condos walk outside and wonder what the heck was going on. Some were outfitted with flashlights, some weren't outfitted with shirts, but all were curious of what had happened and when power would be back.

During the afternoon, we had lots of thunder and lightning in the area, to go along with good size gusts of wind, but no rain. According to Oahu media reports, some bolts struck transmission lines and knocked almost everyone out of power in Oahu.

The shot above is pretty much how things here in the heart of Waikiki were shut down. The biggest crowd was waiting outside of the ABC store. From what I saw, they were letting only a few people in at a time to shop while power was out. I would imagine they didn't want any kind of looting.


Of course in any tough situation, you need entertainment. Thanks to my iPhone, I caught Sonny playing a conga and a cowbell. Earlier, someone across the canal had popped off some fireworks!

Power was out here in Waikiki for just about 12 hours. It came back at 6:40 am on Saturday. Some businesses are still struggling to get back afloat after being out for so long.


Thats one of the seemingly millions of ABC stores in Waikiki. Many freezer or cold items could not be sold. The McDonalds and Subway locations were closed due to the outage, and anywhere that was open, it was SUPER packed because not too many things were open at 10 am because of the recovery.

So, until things start to get less hectic outside, I'm just gonna stay here, eat some food, watch some football and enjoy this view from the hotel...


Hopefully, you are staying safe back on the Big Island after the stormy weather over the past few days. Now on to some sports notes:

_____________________________________________________________

- As a San Francisco Giants fan, I don't know what to think with my team signing the "Big Unit" Randy Johnson to a one year, $8 Million deal. He's not gonna make the team any better at the age of 45. But, this move is all about dollars and sense. Since San Fran privately financed the creation of AT&T Park, they are still paying off that transaction, and with Randy Johnson 5 wins away from 300, they definitely want to get more people in the stands to watch, and maybe pay it back quicker. I'm still expecting another losing season next year.

- Great Motor City Bowl last night, as Florida Atlantic beats Central Michigan at Ford Field. Can a team from Michigan get a win in that stadium this year? Michigan State lost to North Carolina in College Basketball, Detroit Lions, um, you know, winless this year, and now Central Michigan. Coach Butch Jones for the Chippewas took some gambles late, and yes, they didn't pay off, but its a bowl game, your players wanna have fun, so go out and leave everything on the field! He did, didn't work, but Central Michigan still had a good year.

- College Bowl Madness Challenge Record: 2-5. Yikes.

- I'll be at the Stan Sheriff Center for Day 1 of the Rainbow Classic. At 5 pm, Vermont takes on George Washinton, followed by Hawaii and Colorado State at 7:30 approximately. I'll try to put up some photos in the next blog, but I will write up a recap in the next Oahu installment.

Fighting Irish More Than Lucky in Hawaii Bowl Win

I guess 62% of the Big Island's SportsNation, including yours truly, were wrong in assessing the fate of the 2008 Sheraton Hawaii Bowl.

Meanwhile, the 38% who chose Notre Dame were right on the mark with the points of emphasis in this game, as heard on my show this morning:

- Lack of Discipline by the Warriors

- Better athletes underneath the Golden Domes of Notre Dame

- A win would not be close, whatsoever.

I did say to watch out for some kind of breakout game from QB Jimmy Clausen, didn't I? Yeah, I picked Hawaii to win, but I was afraid of the very kind of game that Clausen delivered on Christmas Eve. He set Notre Dame bowl game records for passing yards and TD's. He even got help from a Warrior secondary that must've sipped on some spiked Egg Nog before kickoff, because they were nowhere to be found all game long.

For Notre Dame, they throw the bowl game monkey off their back, breaking the streak of 9 straight postseason losses, 4 of them to Oklahoma State and LSU alone. All of the questions surrounding Charlie Weis will remain going into the 2009 regular season, but at least now for Irish fans, they will have a bright glimmer of hope for a better campaign than the one they just suffered, highlighted by a loss to the Orange of Syracuse.

And Hawaii? A winning season with a first year head coach. Sure, it wasn't pretty at times, but I think most Hawaii fans will remember the strong end to the regular season rather than the beginning and the ND game and look to games against Cincinnati and Fresno State, for example, as signs that the Warriors will improve and be better. They will have two returning QB's and a lot of promise at other skill positions. But can their defense improve, especially in the secondary? And can they stop committing stupid penalties?

All questions will be answered in 2009.

Until that point in time, I've got three shows left here in 2008 (Christmas Day, the 26th, and the 20th), so I hope you and your families have a safe, happy, and healthy holiday season, and even more so, a prosperous 2009. Our ESPN Radio family appreciates your support and we look forward to bigger and better things to come in '09!

The Bowl Championship Series Got it Right - MOSTLY

The matchups are set for all 34 bowl games, but everyone's eyes are looking at the Bowl Championship Series today as all 10 berths have been announced.

Rose Bowl Game Presented by Citi (January 1, 2009 - 11 am ESPN Radio) - USC vs. Penn State

Penn State will have a LONG layoff before they play this game. They didn't play this past weekend, unlike USC, who beat UCLA on Saturday. Penn State also has to worry about the deepest team in the country. USC right now is the better team in this game.

FedEx Orange Bowl (January 1, 2009 - 3 pm ESPN Radio) - Cincinnati vs. Virginia Tech

This will probably be the game that no one really cares about, as both these teams come from the mediocre BCS conferences. Virginia Tech has peaked at the right time under head coach Frank Beamer, especially after their one-sided win in the ACC Championship against Boston College. Cincinnati rallied to beat Hawaii on Saturday in an umimpressive showing.

AllState Sugar Bowl (January 2, 2009 - 2:35 pm ESPN Radio) - Utah vs. Alabama

Alabama's fate rested in the SEC championship game, and they could not pull off a win over favored Florida, so the Crimson Tide get to play in New Orleans in the Sugar Bowl. You have to wonder if there will be a letdown by Alabama since their National Championship hopes have been dashed.

Utah makes it in with an undefeated record and another chance to shock the world, so to speak, by beating a SEC team. Utah has played the role of a BCS buster before, but I believe everyone will remember what happened in that very building one year ago between the Warriors and Georgia.

Tostitos Fiesta Bowl (January 5, 2009 - 2:35 pm ESPN Radio) - Ohio State vs. Texas

This is where the BCS got it wrong. Ohio State does NOT belong in the BCS. They are the only at-large in the BCS with two losses, and they get a berth over one-loss Texas Tech (already two teams in the Big XII making the BCS) and unbeaten Boise State (only one non-BCS school can be a part of the BCS). Granted, their two losses come to both opponents in the Rose Bowl game, but either way, I don't think they should be in.

Contrary to what Longhorns fans believe, Texas is right where they should be. Forget the talk about a split national championship (I'm hearing it, and I don't like the idea of it). The Longhorns in the week-by-week beauty pageant of College Football are not as pretty as the Sooners. Time to get over it and play football.

FedEx BCS National Championship Game (January 8, 2009 - 2:35 pm) - #1 Oklahoma vs. #2 Florida

I was a bit worried that the computers would keep us from this matchup, but we indeed get the two hottest offenses in the country. The Gators had a great 2nd half in the SEC Title game over Alabama to come from behind with the win, and the Sooners right now are the HOTTEST team in the country, as they practically wrapped up the Big XII Title in the 1st quarter over Missouri.

Jerry Palm of CollegeBCS.com will join me tomorrow to break down the BCS here on ESPN Radio!

Notre Dame / Hawaii in the Sheraton Hawaii Bowl?

Sources tell the Honolulu Advertiser this morning that a Fighting Irish / Warriors Hawaii Bowl matchup is close to being a done deal.

Now, let's be honest. Notre Dame at 6-6 definitely doesn't deserve a bowl berth. Heck, their coach should be lucky that he has a job for next season.

And, as I have stated for the past few weeks on my show, Hawaii is not a deserving bowl team? Although they had a very good performance for about three quarters against Cincinnati, they didn't have the juice to finish off the upset. Their body of work, however, over the course of the year, has shown only one good win, and multiple bad losses.

But, we all know what the bowl season is really all about....

$$$KA-CHING$$$

Notre Dame has a nice Hawaii following. After all, all of their home games were on NBC for everyone to see, kinda similar to the Braves having their games on TBS not too long ago before TBS decided to carry the national Sunday package. The Fighting Irish have had an honorable past history on the gridiron, no matter how bad this decade has been in the eyes of the Irish Faithful.

More over, Notre Dame will want to play in Hawaii because they want to woo Punahou senior and Butkus Award winner Manti Te'o their way. There's been no secret that the Irish want him. Coach Charlie Weis made a visit after the USC game, and Te'o has made a visit to South Bend. A impressive win in Hawaii would go a long way for them.

Certainly, to be fair to Hawaii, this season has exceeded a lot of people's expectations, considering the players that moved on and a first-year head coach. Seven wins is considered a great year, in my opinion. But having a great year and deserving to play in the postseason are two different things. Heck, next year, a great year for Washington Huskies fans will be winning at least three games. Won't get them into a bowl. Even more so, a great year for Miami Dolphins fans this year would've been more than 4 wins. Right now, they may go to the playoffs. We must put it in perspective.

More importantly for ESPN Regional and Sheraton (the organizer and sponsor of the Hawaii Bowl), this would be a given for a solid Aloha Stadium Crowd. Heck, I may even decide to fly up and watch! Big crowds, especially if a lot of South Bend faithful decide to fly over, equals tourism and dollars.

We'll see if this gets finalized today. My thoughts on the BCS pairings coming up tomorrow.

UPDATE: It indeed has been confirmed, as Notre Dame and Hawaii will meet in the Sheraton Hawaii Bowl. ESPN Radio will have coverage of the Sheraton Hawaii Bowl at 2:35 pm on Christmas Eve.

Happy Thanksgiving to you all!

Ob behalf of all the staff and management here at ESPN Radio, I'd like to wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving, and hope that you have the chance to spend time with family and friends and celebrate all that we must be thankful for.

To our friends who are serving or have served in the military, I take this time to say thank you for everything you do for our country. You help to keep our country free, and allow people like me to speak freely every day. I salute your service and your dedication to our country.

Finally, I want everyone who is reading this to remember how much we must be thankful for. As I write this, I'm watching CNN and they are showing live coverage of the unfortunate and sickening events in Mumbai, India. Innocent people have lost their lives, and will not be able to spend time with their families and friends, regardless of what their nationality or ethnicity is.

You, the reader, as well as myself, are fortunate to spend this holiday with our loved ones. Unfortunately, halfway across the world, there are people who will not see another day. Please keep these families in our thoughts and prayers as we spend the next few days with the people we love.

- Posted by Josh Pacheco

First Hawaiian Bank / HHSAA State Football Tournament Information

Big thank you to Lyle Crozier, the Interim Executive Director of the BIIF, for giving me a hollar and asking me to pass along the following information:

All HHSAA State Football Games will start at 7:30 pm on Friday. The games are as follows:

Division I:

Kealakehe vs. Farrington (Ticky Vasconcellos Stadium, Oahu) - Aired on OC16 and Starcomm Sports Radio Network

Leilehua vs. Baldwin (War Memorial Stadium, Maui)

Division II:

Campbell vs. Konawaena (Julian R. Yates Field, Kealakekua) - Aired on ESPN Radio

Radford vs. Kauai (Vidinha Stadium, Kauai)

BIIF Mathematics, er, Division Championship Implications

You might as well give the first person to solve this BIIF Football Division 2 mathematical equation a state title.

Oh wait, that would be me.

On behalf of my iPhone's Calculator, newspaper archives and radio highlights, and my smart brain, I would humbly accept this prestigeous award of BIIF Football Mathematician of the Year.

Okay, all kidding aside, thats pretty much what it takes to figure out all of the tiebreakers for a possible Kamehameha win. You ready?

If Kamehameha beats Konawaena by 7 points or less, the Konawaena Wildcats are DII Overall Champions

If Kamehameha beats Konawaena by 8 points, it creates a 2nd tie between HPA and Konawaena

If Kamehameha beats Konawaena by 9-10 points, HPA is the 2nd round champion and would play Konawaena next week

If Kamehameha beats Konawaena by 11 points, it creates a 2nd tie between HPA and Kamehameha

If Kamehameha beats Konawaena by 12 points or more, Kamahemeha is the 2nd round champion and would play Kona next Friday.

Of course all of this means nothing if one thing happens:

KONAWAENA WINS

Good luck.

You can hear this matchup on Saturday beginning at 7 pm on ESPN Radio.