Jack Scheuer’s Off The Boards – January 14, 2015 Edition

Proving that you don’t have to be over-animated, or constantly trying to intimidate referees to be successful, Virginia’s Tony Bennett has firmly established himself as one of the top coaches in the country.  The Cavaliers don’t have a big time star, but run a smooth offense and play terrific defense.  Meanwhile, their leader exhibits a demeanor that could be used as instructional film for young coaches everywhere.  Virginia was 30-6 last season, went to the Sweet 16, and is good enough to reach the Final 4 this time around.  They are a team that’s a pleasure to watch, including the coach.

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Speaking of coaches who are constantly jumping up-and-down, shouting, and orchestrating every play, I’m reminded of a quote by John Wooden, the greatest coach there has ever been: Asked what he thought about coaches who portray such antics, Wooden said,  “I don’t understand it. What do they do at practice?”

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Trivia Time: Who is the youngest player to ever play in the NBA? Answer at the end of the column.

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Here’s a suggestion for the NBA to consider which might add some interest to the long season: Employ a Tank Division, with the Sixers, Knicks, Lakers, Timberwolves and Celtics.  Team which does the most impressive tanking job gets an extra ping-pong ball… Just a thought.

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This and That:: My vote for the top leaper in the city would be Temple’s Obi Enechionyia…. Owls hope to bounce back from the disappointing loss to Tulsa by beating SMU tonight. Larry Brown’s team features point guard Nic Moore, a real talent, who shoots 45% from beyond the arc, and has made 47 of 51 from the foul line….The return of freshman forward Mike Auger gives Penn a big boost.  Quakers host Villanova on Saturday at a sold-out Palestra….The  5th ranked  Wildcats welcome a good Xavier team tonight, while La Salle visits Dayton, and St. Joe’s is at home with Fordham….Tomorrow night, Drexel, featuring Damion Lee who just might be the best player in the city, hosts James Madison…. Former St.Joe’s Prep star Steve Vasturia is averaging 8.5 ppg. while playing 30 minutes an outing at Notre Dame.

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Answer to Trivia Time: Andrew Bynum, at 18 years, 6 days is the youngest to play in the NBA.