UGA blog finds new home
Morning all. As I’ve said a couple of times this week, we’re converting this blog over to a WordPress platform and it will be a permanent move the first of next week.
Those of you who are regulars probably know that I’m not what you’d call techno-wizard when it comes to these things. But from what I understand the technology offered in this new format should make the blogging and commenting experience better for all. Of course, I’ll be learning as we go along, too. But I’m hoping to provide more pictures and video and things like that which should bring the blog more to life.
Of course, this blog is nothing without all you guys so I want to heartily invite (read: beg) you to come over to the new site by CLICKING HERE ON THE NEW ADDRESS and save it in your browsers. As of Monday, Feb. 23rd, this will be the permanent home of the UGA blog you so love or, in the case of some of you, love to loathe. If you’d prefer to copy and paste or just memorize, the new address is: http://blogs.ajc.com/uga-sports-blog/.
See at the new place!
AJC > Sports > UGA > Blog > Archives > 2008 > March > 03 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USVideo shows Gaines punched; now what?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Just returned from Baton Rouge this morning and that debacle of a basketball game at LSU.
As usual the Bulldogs fought hard and actually led by 16 points midway through the first half but didn’t have the horses to finish the race. Of course, it didn’t help that their most versatile horse [Sundiata Gaines] was ejected with 13:20 to play.
It was an unusual postgame for a number of reasons but chiefly because coach Dennis Felton summoned me and the Athens Banner-Herald reporter (we’re the only publications that staff every UGA basketball game) to the coaches locker room to see the video of the controversial play that led to Gaines’ ejection. For what it’s worth - and it’s really not worth anything - I agreed with Felton’s assessment that the LSU guy, Alex Farrer, punched Gaines in the mouth before Gaines forearmed him.
From the copy of the video Felton was watching (I can only assume the refs were looking at different angles, it’s perfectly clear in Felton’s copy). But, as is always said, it’s always the second guy that gets burned in those types of incidents.
I heard later from a friend who covers LSU that one of the Tigers’ players said that Farrer was intentionally trying to get under Gaines’ skin. If so, he certainly did a good job of it. Today I talked to LSU coach Butch Pierre (he and Farrer were long gone by the time I watched the video) about it on the SEC teleconference today and asked him if Farrer would face any repercussions if it was proven that Felton was right about him punching Gaines.
By rule if you’re caught doing it live in a game you’re automatically ejected and face at least a one-game suspension afterward. Here’s what Pierre said:
“I will do exactly what the Southeastern Conference office requires or whatever the rule states when a player that does something that’s not conducted the right way during a basketball game,” said Pierre, who was named interim head coach when John Brady was fired on Feb. 8. “Other than that I haven’t really stressed anything about it or look at the tape and try to make a judgment call. I’m just focused on this basketball team and what we’re doing right now and looking forward to playing Alabama.”
I asked Pierre if he took issue with the way Felton handled the situation.
“I don’t have a problem with Coach Felton,” Pierre said. “He’s pretty much taking up for his team and his player and the situation as he saw it from his view. I just respect the Southeastern Conference officials and what they do. They made a judgment call and if it had gone against us with Alex I pretty much would have probably taken it as it stands.
“I’m a pretty competitive guy and I know Alex may have got caught up in the moment. But from my view I didn’t think he did anything that would cause him to be ejected from the game. Like I say, they had a veteran crew out there. Those guys are very experienced and have been in that situation for a number of games, so I just respect the call of the officials.”
Personally, that’s the first time I’ve had a coach show me video right after a game (isn’t technology great?), though it’s happened a number of times from many different coaches over the years in their offices a day or two after a controversial game. As ever, it’s not going to change the outcome. It just concludes once again that officials are human and make mistakes, just like the players that they officiate.
Meanwhile, we will find out if there are any repercussions for Felton. The SEC office has really clamped down on coaches commenting on officiating and, lest we forget, Felton has done more than his share of commenting (remember ‘Bama last year and Vanderbilt last week?). He may get some kind of reprimand from the league office before this thing is over.
Anyway, on some levels I can’t blame Felton. Seems like the guy just can’t catch a break and I’m sure this season has been extremely frustrating for him as it certainly has been for Gaines.
So what was your take on the deal? Was Gaines out of line? What about the LSU player? If it’s determined Yata was punched, should anything else happen to Farrer? Did Felton handle the whole thing correctly? If not, what should he have done?
Permalink | Comments (80) | Post your comment | Categories: Basketball
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By Bradley G
March 3, 2008 2:16 PM | Link to this
Gaines threw a forearm, and you are asking if he was out of line?
Felton should be more concerned about the fact that his player retaliated than the fact that he was wronged.
This and other player distractions proves to me once more that Felton needs to part ways with UGA.
By PreyDawg
March 3, 2008 2:42 PM | Link to this
So Bradley G…I guess if a player had punched YOU in the mouth, you would have sat there and said “thank you sir, may I have another.” All this cause your such a swell guy.
Bull
Yata did what anyone in that situation in the heat of the moment would have done. Felton and Gaines have nothing to apologize for. And I just love the way the LSU coach cant say enough nice about this experienced officiating crew. Had the call gone against him would he have said the same?
By Michael
March 3, 2008 2:47 PM | Link to this
Felton is a nice guy but this reminds me of the Donnan situation, to many off court situations (or disciple problems in general) & not enough results. That plus when you see other coaches changing up strategy based on there current talent or out of the box thinking while we don’t change much. See Villanova with the four guard offense a couple years ago or BC who had what looked like a four forward offense or Memphis who adopted a new style of play because Calapari thought it was better than what he had always used. I don’t see that kind of innovation or flexibility with Felton. So its time to move on & bring in a coach who’s a better fit for UGA.
By Fortech
March 3, 2008 3:11 PM | Link to this
Maybe we should flip a coin to see who gets both Felton and Hewitt. Felton cannot seem to keep players, but he is a terrific game coach and gets more out of very little than seems possible. Hewitt can get the horses, but seems clueless as to being able to get much production from them. Together, who knows? Yes, of course I am joking, but it is an intriguing scenario.
By hop
March 3, 2008 4:06 PM | Link to this
i think we have all seen enough and its time to get a new coach.
five years more than enough time to turn the program around,but it will not happen unless dr.adams puts pressure on our do nothing AD, MR. DAMON EVANS. HOW LONG IS MR. EVANS GOING TO TAKE TO ADDRESS A REAL PRESSING PROBLEM AND GET THINGS DONe WITH COACH RICHT’s CONTRACT. HE IS ONLY THE FIFTH HIGHEST PAID COACH IN THE SEC.
mos other coahces would be visiting other schools by now, but mark richt is too much of a gentleman,but this situation should not keep going on.
earth to damon evans , wakeup and do your job for a change!
By hop
March 3, 2008 4:06 PM | Link to this
i think we have all seen enough and its time to get a new coach.
five years more than enough time to turn the program around,but it will not happen unless dr.adams puts pressure on our do nothing AD, MR. DAMON EVANS. HOW LONG IS MR. EVANS GOING TO TAKE TO ADDRESS A REAL PRESSING PROBLEM AND GET THINGS DONe WITH COACH RICHT’s CONTRACT. HE IS ONLY THE FIFTH HIGHEST PAID COACH IN THE SEC.
mos other coahces would be visiting other schools by now, but mark richt is too much of a gentleman,but this situation should not keep going on.
earth to damon evans , wakeup and do your job for a change!
By Joe
March 3, 2008 4:17 PM | Link to this
WHY DOESN’T COACH FELTON DEAL WITH WHAT IS REALLY IMPORTANT? After the Vandy game, all he did was complain about the set-up of a stadium that has not change in over 50 years. Now he spends his post-game arguing about a call in a game that we lost after leading by 16 points.
I appreciate Coach Felton for coming here when nobody else would, but his time is up. He is clearly in over his head, and although he talks tough about discipline, we are constantly making borderline dirty plays. The fact that he is more of a do what I say not what I do guy is evident in the fact that his players do not listen to or respect him.
Please hire someone young and energetic who has a plan for greatness at UGA, Damon. We have the resources, we have the talent pool and now we just need a coach.
By Bradley G
March 3, 2008 4:25 PM | Link to this
PREYDAWG. Yes, if a guy punched me in the mouth on the streets, I would have retaliated. But we’re not talking about “the streets”. We’re talking organized sports. Retaliation gets seen instead of the initial blow, and THE TEAM suffers b/c of it. Yes, Yata’s actions and Felton’s lack of discipline cost his players the game.
By Dr. Merkwurdigliebe
March 3, 2008 4:49 PM | Link to this
It’s time folks. Felton’s got to go, period. Enough already.
By PreyDawg
March 3, 2008 4:52 PM | Link to this
I will stand up for Felton again here. I see this guy as class all the way. Mercer and Brown are off the team because of the charachter of Dennis Felton. He did the right thing and not many other coaches would have taken a stand that strong for academics.
Bradley…you have to look at Gaines entire body of work. He has been a pretty good kid. The past two years I would say real good. He plays his guts out everytime on the floor despite the record. We should be celebrating kids like this NOT throwing them under the bus.
Felton is a good man and an honorable man. He lost it against LSU a little but look at the season he has suffered through. I think he did everything humanly possible to get this kids to go to class in the offseason. When they didnt and he had to let them go, it put tremendous pressure on him.
I agree that the results should be better by now. But I say give him two more years. If we dont make the tournament by then…then lets make a change. Not now.
By GT Fan Jeff
March 3, 2008 4:55 PM | Link to this
Why debate this minor issue so much instead of reviewing Felton’s overall performance as the UGA coach? If both Felton and Hewitt are not fired after their underachieving performances this season, then the UGA and GT AD’s are NOT doing their jobs and should also be removed. I have followed both UGA and GT basketball for almost 50 years, and, believe me, the two programs have NEVER been any lower than this at the same time. IT IS TIME FOR A CHANGE!!!
By AltamahaDawg
March 3, 2008 5:51 PM | Link to this
The reason that Evans is NOT going to fire coach Felton (aside from this being the first year the program didnt take huge steps forward under him, and the presence of a pretty good core of young players and highly rated class on the way) is simple. When you look at the games this year, its pretty obvious, UGA would have been dramatically improved with the return of the top 2 scorers from last year. And since those guys were lost to the tougher stance that the school put in place, its hard to imagine that Evans would be able to fire somebody, whose season was destroyed by his own policies. Just my guess, But I see Evans retaining Felton, if for no other reason, not to appear hypocritical on the academic issues. And I agree, judge the man on coaching, not circumstances.
By Bryan G.
March 3, 2008 6:01 PM | Link to this
Big brother Bradley G. is dead on. Gaines got punched and didn’t keep his head. Of course he was in the wrong.
UGA basketball is a non-issue and just terrible. Time to go, Felton.
Let’s hire Barack Obama so we can get Hope and Change (I think those are his twin children).
By boots
March 3, 2008 6:33 PM | Link to this
Georgia basketball can and will improve. We need to be patient. It has been a long road back, and Coach Felton deserves one more year. Besides, the SEC refs do suck and they screwed up. The Dawgs have been on the short end of many games, and it seems that the refs in this game blew it. It is one thing to look at the video, but when Gaines comes out with a bloody lip, you should have known something happened and not simply say, “Only Gaines threw a forearm.” Just stupid!
By chris
March 3, 2008 7:29 PM | Link to this
Who really cares. What really matters is how awful this team has played this season. Felton needs to go as I’ve said for three straight seasons now.
By AltamahaDawg
March 3, 2008 7:29 PM | Link to this
On a different subject, what does it take to get arrested in Columbia, SC?
By AltamahaDawg
March 3, 2008 8:31 PM | Link to this
Come on guys! that was a softball. It takes Spurrier not taking the Chief to play in Augusta every now and then.
By shane #1
March 3, 2008 8:35 PM | Link to this
alt,hopefully barney has moved across the state line.we’ll know when usc has it’s first jaywalking arrest.the ajc article was confusing.ticketed for resisting arrest?huh?how can you be charged with resisting arrest when you are not arrested?the facts as i see them this kid,who was underage,was at a bar early in the am and got into a fight and was ticketed and released.we all know what would have happened in athens.
By tom
March 3, 2008 8:39 PM | Link to this
Think you’re missing the big picture. When you’re leading one of the worst teams in the league by 16 points you really need to win.
By Lateshia
March 3, 2008 9:55 PM | Link to this
If Felton was white, no one would be looking to fire him. The good ole boys at Georgia are looking to get rid of another African-American brother to bring in a white coach. This racism in Athens never ends! If they would build a better facility, Felton could recruit good players.
By Red/Black
March 3, 2008 10:04 PM | Link to this
Quit whining its just good old physical BB.
By Justin
March 3, 2008 10:24 PM | Link to this
It doesnt matter if he is black or white or purple, I personally like him, if he hadnt let Brown and Mercer go everyone would want him out for not having any discipline. And by the way Lateshia they just built a new practice facility with 2 gyms a theatre a museum and all kinds of state of the art stuff maybe you should check it out before you start pulling that CARD out again! Its right next to the Colesium! And to add another thing.. the only reason racism is still around is b/c of ppl like you that keep it brewed up in everyones mind. Let it go its over!
By Justin
March 3, 2008 10:27 PM | Link to this
And by the way if we wanted an all-white athletic department I think we would start with the African-American BROTHER that is in charge of it Damon Evans(african american Athletic director) so like I said get over it!
By shane #1
March 3, 2008 10:51 PM | Link to this
i have stayed out of the felton discussion.i have had to fire people inthe past,sometimes it is the only course open,but it is never a good thing.i just hope adams stays out of it!i remember the last basketball coach adams hired!
By Mike
March 3, 2008 10:53 PM | Link to this
Does Lateshia run around with Cynthia McKinney or is she in fact, really Terrence Moore, aka Clarence Bore. Great job, young lady of putting in a totally irrelevant comment. Obviously, you have not taken a look at the UGA basketball yearbook. Did you “gradgeeate” from the Clayton County public schools or are you just really that stupid ??
By Chip Towers
March 3, 2008 11:07 PM | Link to this
ALMOST FORGOT TO POST this but SEC associate commissioner Charles Bloom called me back late this afternoon and said the league would take no action against Felton for pointing out officiating mistakes made in Sunday’s game against LSU. I missed his call back initially and wasn’t near my computer for a few hours. So, for what it’s worth, Felton finally caught one break.
By Matt
March 3, 2008 11:38 PM | Link to this
I’m surprised Felton isn’t thinking about kicking Gaines off the team for throwing the elbow. Seems like he’s been kicking everyone off for something this year.
By Hal
March 4, 2008 12:18 AM | Link to this
What total crap. First of all Farrer did not punch Gaines nor did he have a bloodled lip. I was at the game and was right in front of the play and saw it live. Felton has no right to say what he said and yes he should be fined by the SEC. I would love to see his tape b.c when I saw it live and on tv last nite sorry it was Gaines not Farrer who throw the punch. Felton needs to stop acting like he is the victim and learn how to control his team. UGA is very very lucky there were not more players that were ejected. Several punches and pushes involved UGA and no call at all. How about how did Thorton land on the ground and sprin is MCL??? UMMMM interesting no call there either. I hope and feel like the SEC will do the right thing and not only fine Felton but also suspend Gaines from the Wednesday nite game. I just hope UGA does not get away with thuggish play and thats what they are right now.
By Hal
March 4, 2008 12:18 AM | Link to this
What total crap. First of all Farrer did not punch Gaines nor did he have a bloodled lip. I was at the game and was right in front of the play and saw it live. Felton has no right to say what he said and yes he should be fined by the SEC. I would love to see his tape b.c when I saw it live and on tv last nite sorry it was Gaines not Farrer who throw the punch. Felton needs to stop acting like he is the victim and learn how to control his team. UGA is very very lucky there were not more players that were ejected. Several punches and pushes involved UGA and no call at all. How about how did Thorton land on the ground and sprin is MCL??? UMMMM interesting no call there either. I hope and feel like the SEC will do the right thing and not only fine Felton but also suspend Gaines from the Wednesday nite game. I just hope UGA does not get away with thuggish play and thats what they are right now.
By Hal
March 4, 2008 12:18 AM | Link to this
What total crap. First of all Farrer did not punch Gaines nor did he have a bloodled lip. I was at the game and was right in front of the play and saw it live. Felton has no right to say what he said and yes he should be fined by the SEC. I would love to see his tape b.c when I saw it live and on tv last nite sorry it was Gaines not Farrer who throw the punch. Felton needs to stop acting like he is the victim and learn how to control his team. UGA is very very lucky there were not more players that were ejected. Several punches and pushes involved UGA and no call at all. How about how did Thorton land on the ground and sprin is MCL??? UMMMM interesting no call there either. I hope and feel like the SEC will do the right thing and not only fine Felton but also suspend Gaines from the Wednesday nite game. I just hope UGA does not get away with thuggish play and thats what they are right now.
By Cuz
March 4, 2008 6:53 AM | Link to this
Alt, I havent seen Spurier in town lately playing golf. Limbaugh was here last weekend at the National. He shot a 94. The town is getting ready for our annual spring festival. I may even go one day.
Retain Felton, who else are we going to get. He had an uphill fight from the first game of the season. No use trashing him now.
By AltamahaDawg
March 4, 2008 7:47 AM | Link to this
94, not bad for a big fat b*******.
The thing about Felton is that he is NOT going to get fired this year, and folks just need to deal with it. He IS going to be the head basketball coach next year.
Evans is just paying lip service right now. I’d be willing to bet that the call to let both of his top scorers go by Felton was only after a long discussion about it with Evans involving the ramifications to the season.
There is no model for rebuilding a basketball program such as UGA was, so is it possible that a coach might have ONE year that there is a setback, either within or out of his control? Even Coach Richt had setbacks, lost a ton of players, and could have done things differently here and there.
Felton will get 2 more years and recruiting will be the deciding factor. I dont think the past will even be considered. NOW he has started to get some guys and the pressure will be on to perform. Brought in a couple of 4 star guys last year, one of the top recruits in the country coming, plus a couple of guys highly rated at thier position. Still in consideration for a couple more this class, and the top recruit in the country has UGA high on his list next year.
By huckhound
March 4, 2008 8:20 AM | Link to this
The fact that Felton is focusing on a punch-throwing video immediately after a game which the team LOST in defense of his punch-throwing player speaks volumes. Recruit better athletes and better people — you’ll win more and have less punches to view on video immediately following a game. It’s time for a change at the top — Felton, a good guy, needs to go be a good guy somewhere else.
By DJ
March 4, 2008 8:20 AM | Link to this
Damon has a lot of respect for Felton. He will at least wait until the season is over, then fire Felton, pay him his money, and find someone who can win some damn games.
By DJ
March 4, 2008 8:20 AM | Link to this
Damon has a lot of respect for Felton. He will at least wait until the season is over, then fire Felton, pay him his money, and find someone who can win some damn games.
By B. P.
March 4, 2008 9:10 AM | Link to this
Bradley and Bryan…Does the G. stand for Girlish?? Also, Felton has done a good job considering the skeleton crew he’s had to work with.
By tony
March 4, 2008 9:32 AM | Link to this
fire coach felton and hire a real coach with character like mark richt!!!!
By mdawg
March 4, 2008 10:01 AM | Link to this
fire felton now. i here coach bob knight is available
By mdawg
March 4, 2008 10:01 AM | Link to this
fire felton now. i here coach bob knight is available
By Bryan G
March 4, 2008 11:00 AM | Link to this
No, BP. It stands for “good judgment.” Gaines exercised poor judgment plain and simple. He let his team down by getting kicked out of the game.
By Big Dawg
March 4, 2008 11:17 AM | Link to this
With all due respect Hal, but Gaines was punched by the LSU player first. That doesn’t excuse him for losing his head and costing us a chance to win but such is life which is all about learning to deal with adversity. As for Coach Felton, IMHO he has done a good job and under a very difficult situation> He didn’t help himself when he kicked his two best players off of the team but I think that was because he was forced to teach these young men a life’s lesson. Hopefully they are better for it. As for all of this talk about firing Coach Felton, I think he should get one more season and if things don’t dramatically improve then you let him go. This is only my opinion and I could be wrong.
Go Dawgs can’t wait for Football Season
By Bradley G
March 4, 2008 11:21 AM | Link to this
B.P., please tell me that you didn’t actually take time to try to say something funny on this blog, and that was the best you could come up with!
By 3volpaul
March 4, 2008 11:21 AM | Link to this
Felton is right about one thing. The SEC and NCAA should not allow Vandy to get away with that bench set-up under the goals. Big advantage for Vandy. They’re used to it, no one else is. Make them change it. Move some of those argyle sweater wearing codgers up three rows.
By Mike
March 4, 2008 11:50 AM | Link to this
Felton is a good guy and he has tried hard. But it is true that it just seems he can’t catch a break. It also seems unreal to me that a major university such as UGA cannot field a competitive basketball team, let alone a championship team. Tennessee has come through and so has Florida. The list goes on. I’m sorry Coach Felton, it’s time for a change. We need a championship recruiter - look at UGA football - the talent and the depth.
By John
March 4, 2008 12:45 PM | Link to this
You wonder if some agents of currently employed coaches or coaches wanting back in the college game have put some interest out there to some in our top level AA dept. or through some influential boosters. That would make sense if Evans was gonna make a move to have a strong idea of who would take over..
By AltamahaDawg
March 4, 2008 1:07 PM | Link to this
DJ, I would be shocked. If for no other reason, I dont think Evans would want the “perception” that while he talks a good game on academic standards, he would fire a coach, who had one “step back year” because of it. Thats might not be the entirety of situation, but it WOULD be the discussion of every media pundits out there, (and according the the pretty evenly divided opinions in the sports blog) quite a few fans.
I think its far more likely that Evans will conclude that he has little to lose to see how next year rolls. If not going forwards, he can make a move “for the good of the program” nad nobody could argue motives or fairness. If improving, well thats kind of the goal.
By MB
March 4, 2008 1:10 PM | Link to this
It appears that “hop” has got his job as Waffle House Cook down to a science and now knows how to do everyone else’s job….namely Mr. Evans. “Ding” hasbrowns are done “hop”, now get back to work.
By brandon
March 4, 2008 1:52 PM | Link to this
Felton did nothing wrong.
By Yankeedawg
March 4, 2008 2:05 PM | Link to this
Just something I noticed at the girls basketball game Sunday, Coach Summit of Tennessee is a lady of real class ,she stood and applauded each of Georgia’s seniors Sunday. She deserves all the honor and praise she gets for where she has taken girls college basketball!!! Now if some of it would rub off on Fulmer and Pearl!!!!
By Pitbull
March 4, 2008 2:07 PM | Link to this
Felton took over a basketball program that was a bunch of crap due to the previous coach, his son, and the UGA president. It would take any coach several years to rebuild the program and Felton is doing a fantastic job. I admire him for getting rid of last year’s 2 leading scorers when they did not perform academically. That puts us ahead of Tech right there. Felton has stated that he expects UGA basketball players to be men of excellence both on and off the court. If they are not, they are gone. I admire him for that. UGA is a better place for him being our coach. If you want to get rid of anybody, get rid of Michael Adams. He is a loose cannon, and the fact that the entire university is in his hands scares me. Bring back Dr. Knapp.
By ButlerDawg
March 4, 2008 2:19 PM | Link to this
“Yata”???
Towers is hip to the G’s, yo-yo!
By uga121
March 4, 2008 2:41 PM | Link to this
lateshia or however you spell pyour name. The reason racism still exist is becuase people like you bring it out when it has nothing to do with anything….that is the most irrational piece of garbage post I have ever seen. Felton can’t win games period it has nothing to do with the color of his skin you idiot it’s all about performance something that needs to be brought out 90% of the time the race card is used PERFORMANCE
By Bradley G
March 4, 2008 3:07 PM | Link to this
Instead of admiring Felton for releasing his top two scorers from last year, why aren’t we questioning why he wasn’t making sure they were going to class, ESPECIALLY after the Harrick’s tenure of academic fraud? Instead of hearing him cry fowl over the Alabama game last year, why wasn’t he explaining how he was going to correct his team going 10 minutes without scoring prior to that play? Instead of hearing him lament over who hit who first against LSU, why aren’t we hearing him saying Gaines wouldn’t have been ejected if he would have been more composed? The buck should stop with Felton, but he keeps passing it off. I say we thank him for where he brought us from, yet move forward in our program without him.
By Steve
March 4, 2008 4:02 PM | Link to this
Gaines reacted like most any player would after getting a cheap shot - and like most players, he was seen and got tossed for retaliating.
This one play is a microcsm og UGA’s season - tons of potential, good talent, but bad choices by players and the Dogs couldn’t buy a break with an AMEX Platinum Card.
By AltamahaDawg
March 4, 2008 4:03 PM | Link to this
Bradley obviously you don’t have a very high opinion of Felton as a program director and only time will tell how that pans out. But your insistance on blaming him personally for the yada incident is exactly like blaming coach Richt’s lack of leadership and discipline for every personal foul incured by his players, (quite often the second guy gets caught deal) and there are a few every year. And will continue to be, and yes you coach “not to” but lets get real.
By Chip Towers
March 4, 2008 4:31 PM | Link to this
Hal, say what you want about intent and anything you want about anything else that happened in the game but there is no question Gaines was punched in the mouth and that it was bloodied. I, too, was at the game, on press row in fact, and I saw the guy punch him live. Then I saw it on slow-motion replay on Felton’s computer after the game and I saw Gaines’ mouth when he pulled down his lip and revealed the gash between his left and right teeth. So let’s just be clear about that, OK?
By Jaime Gaverts
March 4, 2008 4:36 PM | Link to this
People! Stop with “Felton kicked the top 2 scorers from last season for academics.” It had nothing to do with academics, cutting classes or cutting tutor sessions. Demand that Chip tells the truth and stops sitting on the real reasons.
By B. P.
March 4, 2008 4:57 PM | Link to this
Bradley G.- Go straighten your panty drawer and get off Felton’s back. I’ll bet you’re a big Bee Gees fan too, aren’t you?
By AltamahaDawg
March 4, 2008 5:09 PM | Link to this
Hal is a computer anyway. “Dave what are you doing?”
By AltamahaDawg
March 4, 2008 5:16 PM | Link to this
Jamie, if it were more sinister, wouldn’t that make it a BETTER case for kicking them off?
In that case, smart for not ruining their lives and getting some benifit to the school image by making it an academic issue at the same time. I almost hope that was it, cause that’s freaking brilliant!
By dandydawg
March 4, 2008 6:33 PM | Link to this
Much to do about nothing! Felton came to this basketball program to turn it around and I believe that he has and will continue todo so. I watched the game on Sunday and saw where the LSU player actually did throw a punch. You could clearly see a closed fist. What I did get sick of during the telecast was the constant reminders that these were the BEST officials in the SEC. Well, as we see, they were “DEAD” wrong! I blame the officials for that one issue - they should have blown a whistle much sooner to call for the jump ball. Anytime you have players out of control, you are going to have something of this nature happen. I, like most people, support Gaines and Georgia. The officials reviewed the tape and probably saw the same thing we saw, but because they were the BEST, they decided to play it safe. I am so sick of this talk about Felton and Georgia. If he left UGA, he would probably get another coaching job and prove his worth. Here’s hoping that Damon dosen’t make a mistake and allows Mr. Felton to stick around. He is an excellent coach.
By Steve
March 4, 2008 6:55 PM | Link to this
People tend to lose sight of the fact that our coach inherited a program that was in a complete shambles because of the predecessor, Jim Harrick and Jim Jr., who were hand-picked by Michael Adams.
Dennis Felton got handed a pile of chicken sh*t and was given the mission to turn it into chicken soup. It takes, time, people!!! Suspensions and dismissals (which the majority of us supported, mind you!) notwithstanding, the Dogs have had to try to compete in the SEC while not only rebuilding from the ground up, but while getting killed in the recruiting wars by coaches who could steer blue-chippers away by pointing to the garbage strewn by Harrick and Son. The true heroes are the players who were left in a no-win situation and have stayed on despite having a pretty clear idea of what was going t go down on the court during this painful rebuilding process.
Instead of crapping on Felton or the players, you clowns ought at least try to act like real fans and support our program no matter what.
By HoopDawgJones
March 4, 2008 7:54 PM | Link to this
I love the comments here. Gaines getting tossed was the classic second gets caught..he threw the forearm and it was a good call. He got punched, but of course that was first not second.
Lets face it…are we really any better than last year. Yes Brown and MErcer got kicked off, but you would think the Dennis the discipline guy would have had those guys in class so they could not be in jeopardy of the Evans missed class rule. I don’t see discipline in Felton. I see him react with it when its too late and the writing is on the wall.
What I really see is a lack of coaching. We have been in every game but when push comes to shove, we don’t execute in key situations. It has been within 3 points inside the final 4 minutes on no less than 6 ocassions in the last 10 games. We won none of them!
Felton has no appeal to the fans, remember he has ripped them at least twice in his career. He does not have the ability to recruit. He has signed the the top player in Georgia only once…Louis Williams and that was because every other coach knew he was going pro…He did get Tompkins, but he is not the top player in the state. He can not out x and o anybody. I have not seen it in key situations all season.
All this said…we need someone new. I am anxious to see what Evans can do. Remember UGA has never hired a coach without the self worshiping, loveable but highly overrated Vince Dooley in charge…
By Ji m Cassell
March 4, 2008 9:29 PM | Link to this
When your a partisan you usually see the stuff “your” way. I think UGA gets slighted by that national sports network when they roll scores,and that the failed footvball coach who does the GAME DAY stuff regrets never being looked at by UGA and he slights us at every oppertunity , so what’s new or news that the refs in Baton Rouge see nothing our way.
By Bradley G
March 4, 2008 9:48 PM | Link to this
BP Great comeback on the unoriginal “Bee Gees” comment. I guess I should follow along and ask if you like oil?
AltamahaDawg I’m not blaming Felton personally for Gaines’ forearm. I even recognize that it would be hard for me not to the same if I were him. I question Felton’s reaction as a head basketball coach. I am of the opinion that the better disciplinary tactic for the team would have been to stand up and at least say that Gaines should not have retaliated. To my knowledge, he has yet to do that. All I’ve heard about his WATCH THE TAPE, WATCH THE TAPE.
By Michael G.
March 4, 2008 10:13 PM | Link to this
when UGA had to deal with the Jim Harrick fiasco, the University of Baylor was dealing with a mess of their own. In the 5 years since, Baylor has rebuilt their program from the ground up and have a 20-9 record this year, while UGA has treaded water, and we continue to make excuses for Coach Felton. The fact of the matter is that he is another Ron Jirsa, (in over his head, not capable of heading a big-school program.) The university runs a money making athletic department, so eating the last 2 years of Felton’s contract wouldn’t be that big of a hit. It’s time to bring some fresh blood into this program and show the season ticket holders that we are serious about fielding a competetive basketball team.
By AltamahaDawg
March 4, 2008 11:33 PM | Link to this
Well as I understand it, he said “watch the tape”, in a very select situation, moments after no doubt being pretty HOT and was defending his model citizen, most loyal player. I dont believe outside of all of US talking about it, anyone has brought it up again, and beyond making a point to defend yada in that exact instance, he wasnt mading it any kind of an excuse or issue. And hell no he isnt going to come out and make some public statement that his player was wrong to retaliate. No coach in the country would do that.
By AltamahaDawg
March 4, 2008 11:58 PM | Link to this
Michael, frankly there are a lot of 20 game teams out there right now, some that wont make the NCAAs, and I honestly believe Felton would have easily done so had he not lost his 2 best players unexpectedely right as the seaon begins. Can you really just going to dismiss winning 19 games last year in perhaps the toughest division in the country? I’d say that was more impressive than 2008 Baylor.
I can also surmise had Baylor (or anyone) lost those guys, and the injuries, they would be struggling right now. If you look at the actual results for both schools over that time frame, you will see that Felton is actually the one with a much steadier improvement curve (barring this ONE year).
The Baylor coach also did not release the entire recruiting class coming in his first year or suffer any loss of scholarships. And for every “Baylor” there are plenty of example of schools with much better tradition, just as much money, and not near the issues as UGA, that havent exactly lit it up over the past few years.
By Bradley G
March 5, 2008 8:54 AM | Link to this
AltamahaDawg Yes, I do expect Felton and any coach (basketball or otherwise) to at least mention that his senior leader should not have retaliated. I agree with CMR in that his first mission is to raise men and not players. If he’s not addressing the results of Gaines’ retaliation, then he is silently condoning it.
Think of it this way: had his best player (BTW, I have no animosity towards him, he’s a great ball player!) not retaliated, wouldn’t UGA have had a much better chance to win? He took himself out of the game. The LSU player didn’t force him to retaliate; Gaines made a conscious decision, and his action cost UGA a better chance of winning. Felton should remind him of that, and he hasn’t (again, to my knowledge). That’s poor coaching.
By Jimmy
March 5, 2008 9:26 AM | Link to this
Jaime Gaverts,
You keep on saying that Mercer and Brown didnt get kicked off because of the tutoring attendance issues?? What exactly did they get kicked off the team for? You keep telling the AJC to tell the truth?? Implying something else?? Why don’t YOU tell us why they were kicked off the team for, or are you afraid of a defamation of character lawsuit because you dont know what youre talking about, perhaps?? If i’m wrong I appologize.
By Michael G.
March 5, 2008 2:25 PM | Link to this
I’m not going to claim to be an expert on Baylor Basketball, but I did google the team and see that that they did in fact release their kids from scholarships after the murder of that kid. And they faced the same hardships (defections, loss of schoalarships, injuries) that we at UGA have faced. This is the second year (like UGA) with no restrictions placed on them and they finished .500 last year and are going to the dance this year. I like the way they are trending much more than or helter skelter approach. As nice as our 19 win season was last year, it came against nobodies, or we would have made it to the NCAA’s instead of the NIT’s. Felton has had his chance. Let me ask, when can we say no excuses; it’s time to produce?
By AltamahaDawg
March 5, 2008 3:09 PM | Link to this
Michael, I stand corrected, didnt realize they did have some scholarship losses.
I’m still looking at thier last 4 years and it looks like they are exactly where we were a year ago, and then we took a step back this year. Really not the point because somebody did something does not mean everyone else has to, and plenty of team with better situation have done worse recently. It’s splitting hairs at this point.
By UGA Fan
March 5, 2008 5:39 PM | Link to this
So if this is a one year step back and we are on the right path, how did we manage to get beat in the NIT last year by 30+ points? You’re telling me last year was a step forward losing by 30 in the not invited tournament. Felton is a disgrace and should be removed immediately.
By AltamahaDawg
March 5, 2008 8:07 PM | Link to this
after winning 8 games, then 15, then 19, uh yea! let me check my math there………mmm..yea
Recruiting better each year.
But hey, lets not go by those kinds of things, right?
You know, Felton able to get over the hump, made some mistakes, is just a matter of opinion, and certainly debatable. Some folks rightfully wonder where the line should be. BUT to say he hasnt done exactly what he was hired to do every single year up to this ONE is so utterly foolish and inaccurate, you cannot possibly be serious.
And exactly how has Coach Felton “disgraced” anyone?
By Jaime Gaverts
March 6, 2008 9:17 AM | Link to this
Jimmy, apology accepted.
By AltamahaDawg
March 6, 2008 12:47 PM | Link to this
Jamie, you know Chip is just a lap dog for the school, so he would never tell the truth, but YOU fine sir, being under no such collar, are free to spill the truth. I mean not to do so would almost make you look , well, like chicken crap, which we all know you would never be.
By AltamahaDawg
March 6, 2008 3:24 PM | Link to this
MG, dont look now but your Baylor Bears has only won 4 out of thier last 11, and those were against bottom dwellers. But come to think of it, I’d settle for beating a few of those too.
Just aggrivating you a bit, but as I look at their 20 win season I am reminded of your “against nobodies” early on. They still might make the NCAA with the feel good votes.
I dont think they are any model to go by so far though.
By Southern
March 20, 2008 4:16 PM | Link to this
Although my son was not recruited by Felton I am still a big GA fan and will always be. I don’t blame him entirely for the breakdown of his team with the loss of Mercer and others. I think the parents should also check to make sure your kid is keeping up his or her grades, regardless to what the coach says, you have to stay involve. My son plays for a smaller division I school and you can best believe I require that his coach give me an update on his grades. I found that in the recruiting process, coaches don’t look for academics and character. They look for talent only and sometimes that’s not good. If these schools stopped recruiting kids that didn’t barely graduate highschool, they wouldn’t have this problem with academics. So this is what happens in the end. you lose players who could have potentially helped you win big games.
By Southern
March 20, 2008 4:17 PM | Link to this
Although my son was not recruited by Felton I am still a big GA fan and will always be. I don’t blame him entirely for the breakdown of his team with the loss of Mercer and others. I think the parents should also check to make sure your kid is keeping up his or her grades, regardless to what the coach says, you have to stay involve. My son plays for a smaller division I school and you can best believe I require that his coach give me an update on his grades. I found that in the recruiting process, coaches don’t look for academics and character. They look for talent only and sometimes that’s not good. If these schools stopped recruiting kids that didn’t barely graduate highschool, they wouldn’t have this problem with academics. So this is what happens in the end. you lose players who could have potentially helped you win big games.
By Southern
March 20, 2008 4:17 PM | Link to this
Although my son was not recruited by Felton I am still a big GA fan and will always be. I don’t blame him entirely for the breakdown of his team with the loss of Mercer and others. I think the parents should also check to make sure your kid is keeping up his or her grades, regardless to what the coach says, you have to stay involve. My son plays for a smaller division I school and you can best believe I require that his coach give me an update on his grades. I found that in the recruiting process, coaches don’t look for academics and character. They look for talent only and sometimes that’s not good. If these schools stopped recruiting kids that didn’t barely graduate highschool, they wouldn’t have this problem with academics. So this is what happens in the end. you lose players who could have potentially helped you win big games.