Author: Ray Floriani

NIT Recap

NIT Semifinal and Final Round Notes by Ray Floriani NEW YORK – Throughout the NIT, Ohio State frequently used significant runs and bursts to put distance between themselves and opposition. UMass was known for their ability and will to comeback when all seemed lost. In the final analysis it was […]

New Book on UConn-Tennessee Rivalry

New Book Chronicles Women’s Rivalry by Ray Floriani BRIDGEPORT, Conn. – One could say Richard Kent’s life centers around the court. An attorney by profession, Kent is a basketball writer and “connoisseur” in his other vocation. He has authored six books, three on basketball and the most recent, Lady Vols […]

Big East Women Rule Bridgeport

Big East Women Rule Bridgeport in Second Round by Ray Floriani BRIDGEPORT, Conn. – Second round action in the Women’s NCAA tournament saw a familiar face and a newcomer advance to the Sweet 16. UConn dominated Texas en route to their 15th consecutive regional appearance, while Louisville, also dominant in […]

Butler Adapts To Another Coach

Da’Sean Butler Continues Adapting to Coaches by Ray Floriani NEW YORK – Over the past three seasons Da’Sean Butler has played for three different coaches. All of them are different from one another, each outstanding in his own right. Two years ago Butler was finishing his high school career at […]

Big East Tournament Notes

Big East Tournament Notes by Ray Floriani NEW YORK – The Pitt Panthers love New York. They might even be willing to advertise for the city’s commerce and tourism as they frequently discuss their enjoyment of playing in Madison Square Garden. And those discussions occurred prior to Saturday’s Big East […]

Atlantic 10 Tournament Quarterfinal Notes

Atlantic 10 Tournament Quarterfinal Notes by Ray Floriani ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. – Day two at the Atlantic 10 Tournament saw the top seed survive. The always entertaining, and not without drama event, also gave us a bonus: a Big Five matchup. Scores: Xavier 74, Dayton 65 St. Joe’s 61, Richmond […]

Bozzella Rebuilds Iona

Bozzella Rebuilds Iona by Ray Floriani ALBANY, N.Y. – The job done building the Iona women’s program has been nothing short of spectacular. Upon closer inspection, the turnaround shouldn’t have come as a complete shock. Tony Bozzella, as they say, has “been there done that”. Bozzella was hired several years […]

Marist Women Run Through MAAC Unscathed

Flores, Marist Run Through MAAC by Ray Floriani ALBANY, N.Y. – Shortly after the women’s semifinals Nikki Flores was asked who she rooted for in the past Super Bowl. “The Giants,” she said smiling, “I’m a big Giants fan.” The question was directed to the Marist point guard to see […]

MAAC Tournament Notes

MAAC Tournament Notes by Ray Floriani ALBANY, N.Y. – Saturday’s session at the MAAC tournament is always special. There are six games, perfect for the bona fide basketball fanatic. Whether you prefer the men’s or women’s game, the MAAC Saturday should be attended at least once, if not more. Women’s […]

Roles Reversed In A-10 Matchup

Roles Reversed For Fordham, La Salle by Ray Floriani BRONX, N.Y. – The Fordham Rams had some concerns last Wednesday evening. They exited the cozy confines of Rose Hill Gymnasium on the short end of an 83-78 decision. But of greater importance of the loss itself, is the manner in […]