The Event: UCR vs. USU
The Time: Thursday Jan. 23rd 2003 7:05 P.M. MST
The Place: The Dee Glen Smith Spectrum (10,270)
UCR comes into Thursday night’s game with a 3-8 overall record, 2-3 in conference. The Highlanders are coming off a 47-41 win on the road at Fullerton. Nate Carter was the only Highlander in double figures with 16.
I had the opportunity to interview “Deltpits” this week, and here is what he had to say:
AS: Tell us what you thought the day you found out that UCR would be entering Div1A basketball and the Big West...
Deltpits: “I actually had mixed emotions when I heard that UCR was making the jump. UCR was at or near the top of Division II in men's basketball, women's volleyball and baseball for over 20 years, with 5 National Championships, 30+ NCAA playoff appearances and 30+ Conference Championships. I knew that Division I would mean 5 to 10 years, maybe even more, of losing and no playoffs. Of course, I was happy about the jump from the viewpoint that it meant more exposure and that UCR was finally "growing up." The Big West was only the conference that made since. UCR has had no football since 1975, so it needed a basketball focused conference. Obviously, it makes sense for UCR to compete against fellow UCs and Cal States, along with the other schools.”
AS: Why hasn't UCR been eligible for the BW Tournament? What are the NCAA regulations? When will they be eligible?
Deltpits: “money, money and more money. As a new Division I program, UCR will not be eligible for an automatic bid for its first two years (now it is 8 years!) The BWC then rendered UCR ineligible, because although this was a long shot, if UCR won the BWT the first 2 years, it couldn't go to the NCAA and the BWC could have been without a representative. UCR will be eligible next year, 2003-04.”
AS: UC Riverside has improved each of the past few years. The Highlanders won 5 conference games last season. Is this trend going to continue this year?
Deltpits: “Most thought with BWC First Teamer Vili Morton red shirting, this season was going to be a wash. But the other players have too much pride and have played the last 4 BWC games very competitively. I think UCR will win at least 5, but it may sneak a few more. Without Morton, I think this would far exceed expectations.”
AS: Tell us about this year’s team leader, freshman guard Nate Carter...is he the future of Highlander Basketball?
Deltpits: Actually, Carter is a forward. He plays a small forward game, but he has the size and ability to post up. He also is not afraid to go straight for the basket. He has great enthusiasm and plays adequate defense. His one fault is that he probably doesn't pass enough, but when he shoots over 55%, no one really complains. He is a major building block for the future of this program, especially with Morton back this year.”
AS: How many years before UCR is competing year in and year out for the Big West title?
Deltpits: “I don't want to jinx the team, but based on the returning players and the recruits for next year, this team will definitely be in the hunt. I think John Masi has shown he can recruit by getting at least one can't miss player a year. If he maintains this and the team wins, I don't think it is unreasonable to expect consistent competitiveness within 3 to 4 years.”
AS: What kind of fan base does the Highlander basketball team carry?
Deltpits: “The community has always been supportive, even during the Division II days. The AD does a good job promoting to the community. The students, however, have not been as excited, but the AD is also taking steps to correct this. I think Morton red shirting had some impact, plus losing high profile, high attendance games last year, including the sellout, blowout against USU and the homecoming loss to LBSU. I think it can only grow with over 6,000 students living on and off campus within walking distance of the Student Rec Center.”
AS: What are the team’s strengths and weaknesses?
Deltpits: “Strengths: heart, Nate Carter, half court game, defense. Weaknesses: Focus, turnovers, only one legitimate big man (Hands), fast breaks”
Thanks to “Deltpits” for the great interview!
Go Aggies!!!
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