BC Interruption - COMPLETE COVERAGE: The 2018 NITA Boston College Eagles Community.https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/47285/bci-fave.png2018-03-13T22:05:40-04:00http://www.bcinterruption.com/rss/stream/168717512018-03-13T22:05:40-04:002018-03-13T22:05:40-04:00Boston College Men’s Basketball Season Concludes With 79-62 Loss to Western Kentucky
<figure>
<img alt="NCAA Basketball: ACC Conference Tournament-NC State vs Boston College" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/3BRSX3TpXFiQmK0_r4EEQYk98_M=/50x0:2242x1461/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/59019227/usa_today_10685734.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Nicole Sweet-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Congrats to BC on a solid season - looking forward to even more wins next year!</p> <p id="lDcbpn">The Eagles faced off with the C-USA’s <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/college-basketball/teams/western-kentucky-hilltoppers">Western Kentucky Hilltoppers</a> in Bowling Green in the first round of NIT play tonight. The teams were touted as evenly matched, offensive squads, and they lived up to their billing in the first half. They traded leads back and forth for 18 minutes, but foul trouble got the Eagles out of their offense and allowed the Toppers to go on an 11-2 run in the final two minutes to take an 8-point lead into halftime. <span>Jerome Robinson</span> struggled behind the extended three-point arc, hitting just one of five in the first half. Meanwhile, the Hilltoppers took ten free throws in the final minutes as <span>Johncarlos Reyes</span>, <span>Nik Popovic</span>, <span>Luka Kraljevic</span>, and <span>Ky Bowman</span> all picked up two fouls. The Eagles did not get to the line in the first half.</p>
<p id="pbaVZ0"> </p>
<p id="i8UZZA">The Eagles continued to struggle to find an offensive rhythm out of halftime, shooting just 28.6% in the third quarter The defense could not get it done today; the Hilltoppers shot over 60% in every quarter. The Eagles tried the press in the fourth quarter, but WKU was successful at breaking it and finding wide open layups at the other end. The HIlltoppers also came up with five offensive rebounds in the fourth quarter for ten second chance points. WKU senior <span>Justin Johnson</span> led all scorers with 19. The Hilltoppers never let up and finished the night with a 79-62 win.</p>
<p id="zrQ3av"> </p>
<p id="Unt0YM">The loss ends BC’s season with a 19-16 record overall. Western Kentucky advances to the second round of <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nit-tournament">the NIT</a>, and will face the winner of tonight’s late game between Southern Cal and UNC- Asheville. This marks BC’s highest season win total since 2010-2011. </p>
https://www.bcinterruption.com/2018/3/13/17118198/boston-college-mens-basketball-season-concludes-with-79-62-loss-to-western-kentucky-nitKatie Bent2018-03-13T20:01:39-04:002018-03-13T20:01:39-04:00GAMETHREAD: Boston College Men’s Basketball vs. Western Kentucky
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<img alt="NCAA Basketball: ACC Conference Tournament-Clemson vs Boston College" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/KRyS6-CD2FX5Av99YcDuZpsv28k=/0x0:3114x2076/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/59018123/usa_today_10687856.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Go Eagles!</p> <p id="MmI0Qq">After a two win showing at the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/acc-basketball-tournament">ACC Tournament</a>, the Boston College men’s basketball team thoroughly earned a trip to postseason play at <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nit-tournament">the NIT</a> Tournament. With their first postseason bid since Steve Donahue’s inaugural 2010-11 run at the same NIT, the Eagles will be facing an unfamiliar foe in the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/college-football/teams/western-kentucky-hilltoppers">Western Kentucky Hilltoppers</a>, a team that has far more recent <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/march-madness">NCAA Tournament</a> experience than BC. Jim Christian’s team has a chance to win 20 games for the first time in his tenure and since that same 2010-11 season. </p>
<p id="aubydo"><strong>GAME DAY FACTS</strong></p>
<p id="EJgByn"><strong>WHO</strong></p>
<p id="TAHm4C"><a href="https://www.bcinterruption.com/"><strong>Boston College Eagles</strong></a> (19-15, 7-11 ACC)</p>
<p id="8rTtIT">@</p>
<p id="yzzF8y"><strong>Western Kentucky Hilltoppers</strong> (24-10, 14-4)</p>
<p id="uCSgR0"><strong>WHAT</strong></p>
<p id="OCJpID">The first round of <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nit-tournament"><strong>the NIT</strong></a> and the Eagles’ first postseason berth since 2011!</p>
<p id="107yEt"><strong>WHERE</strong></p>
<p id="9rhFdk">Bowling Green, KY</p>
<p id="32bOcL"><strong>WHEN</strong></p>
<p id="IWRDe8">Tuesday March 13, 2018</p>
<p id="nkEtXH">Tipoff is at 8:00 pm</p>
<p id="egpVOr"><strong>HOW TO WATCH</strong></p>
<p id="Mdnydt">The game will be aired on ESPN3 so it can be streamed there.</p>
<p id="U0bped"><strong>HOW TO LISTEN</strong></p>
<p id="H7pYas">Listen with Jon Meterparel and Danya Abrams on BC IMG Sports Network (WEEI 850 AM in the Boston area).</p>
<p id="88zxCb"><strong>HOW TO FOLLOW ALONG ON TWITTER</strong></p>
<p id="UpNMvN">Follow @bcinterruption for game coverage, and check out the BC men’s basketball account @BCMBB.</p>
<p id="IL79wB">Follow our men’s basketball writers at @choppintoppin, @mattoneil55, @yourfriendktb, and @EJHoffses</p>
<p id="PLdkKj"><strong>Share your thoughts on the game below! Go Eagles!</strong></p>
https://www.bcinterruption.com/2018/3/13/17117684/gamethread-boston-college-mens-basketball-vs-western-kentucky-nitKatie Bent2018-03-13T14:00:02-04:002018-03-13T14:00:02-04:00The Official BCI 2018 NIT Mascot Rankings
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<img alt="Wake Forest v Boston College" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/ZlKTRs-XHgc9YOq-NgZCjctmM1E=/0x178:2000x1511/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/59005163/109921832.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>It’s not BCI if I’m not out here ranking an obscene number of something!</p> <ol><li id="tDnj2i">
<strong>Hooter the Temple Owl: </strong>He only sort of looks like an owl but he’s so angry and I love it. I also appreciate his silver beak.</li></ol>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="NCAA Basketball Tournament - South Florida v Temple" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/7TAb2FXBhjnWfZcRvOZf1bWtOgs=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/10412695/141462420.jpg.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images</cite>
</figure>
<p id="2jKuJL">2.<strong> Baldwin the Eagle: </strong>We are biased, but Baldwin is a great mascot. He’s clearly an eagle, he’s approachable to kids but still fierce. He hits all the marks.</p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="ACC Basketball Tournament - Boston College v North Carolina State" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/n4tNKBmdeyEH_bsTNxEAGIkLqnQ=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/10412971/140945783.jpg.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images</cite>
</figure>
<p id="xHndzR">3. <strong>Big Red the Western Kentucky Hilltopper: </strong>He’s a giant red blob monster/hilltop. He goes to animal shelters and makes friends with cats. What’s not to love?</p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/7Y4aTdO82A_uurUAGvlbHP1g1LM=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/10412951/616c2593e87705c6dfe745c5d3a5a655__cat_s_kittens.jpg">
</figure>
<p id="eeqCGv">4. <strong>Rally the Vermont Catamount: </strong>Rally looks a little weird at first, but he also proportionally actually looks like a mountain lion. He’s a totally acceptable mascot. </p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="Michigan State Spartans v Vermont Catamounts" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/oLVPc5zqcQYpVyd7KIIDDWZPIN0=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/10412883/52459303.jpg.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images</cite>
</figure>
<p id="qsWMF2">5. <strong>Marquette Golden Eagle: </strong>Sure, I’m biased. But I think this is objectively a worse eagle than Baldwin. It does look like a golden eagle though.</p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="Butler v Marquette" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/ShY5MNE1uX2-8ZJTuvUHnVjA4DE=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/10412727/164460144.jpg.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images</cite>
</figure>
<p id="FUOO6W">6. <strong>Bruiser the Baylor Bear: </strong>This is clearly a bear. And he’s an intimidating but not terrifying bear. However, it freaks me out a little that he appears to be a buff bear?</p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="Nebraska v Baylor" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/tV8lld0RSoUVpzoS6LCdHtB5fpg=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/10412777/479913985.jpg.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images</cite>
</figure>
<p id="fiAU2V">7. <strong>Tommy the USC Trojan: </strong>His body is terrible, but I like that he looks straight out of Looney Tunes. </p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="USC v Arizona" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/iPPXnCBfwzfWNMDWzmpem8kCWYM=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/10412919/930522448.jpg.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images</cite>
</figure>
<p id="13NF0G">8. <strong>The Hampton Pirate: </strong>He’s kind of terrifying but I also kind of like him. But I wish a) he wore something other than a t-shirt and b) his hands matched his face.</p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="NCAA Basketball: NCAA Tournament-First Round-Hampton vs Virginia " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/N-_J276BKBJPCDPPm76aT6C4HQA=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/10412761/usa_today_9191090.jpg">
<cite>Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports</cite>
</figure>
<p id="DuHRjL">9. <strong>AJ the Rider Bronco: </strong>This is...fine. He’s intimidating but not horrifying, which is a plus. But his color scheme is boring. </p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/hQff4G5uASZBsJY3cwVfNZIPOiA=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/10412723/athletics_bronc.jpg">
<cite>Rider University</cite>
</figure>
<p id="nf6MMS">10. <strong>Roomie the SE Louisiana Lion: </strong>Roomie would be significantly higher if he had a normal mane and not a GOATEE.</p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/h3kLbOIUw0mrtaO6rCqAmkltazk=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/10413023/22370635_large.jpg">
<cite>NOLA.com</cite>
</figure>
<p id="OTpScE">11. <strong>Louisville Cardinal: </strong>Why does he look so aggressively mad? Yes, the Temple owl is mad, but he makes it work. I think this guy’s eyes and teeth just make him look more insane. </p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="NCAA Basketball Tournament - Second Round - Michigan v Louisville" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/GC2-AClj-8TPuw9aqWijX66ALRg=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/10412891/655203978.jpg.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images</cite>
</figure>
<p id="bxzY4o">12. <strong>Harry the Washington Husky: </strong>This is straight up a fursuit, not a mascot costume. Those are not the same thing. But it’s definitely a husky and also points for real husky.</p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="Idaho v Washington" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/7I7qzKyfd7f2nkv1TePdPBC-4e4=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/10413059/603223344.jpg.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Otto Greule Jr/Getty Images</cite>
</figure>
<p id="9c6zgw">13. <strong>Viktor E. Viking of Northern Kentucky:</strong> Human mascots are not the best in general. This one isn’t as horrifying as many human mascots are, but there is no way to compete with cool animal mascots, sorry.</p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="Northern Kentucky v Kentucky" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/Gi4YOAtbzgcyoZzgB_7CsHaqGbg=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/10413047/654642322.jpg.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images</cite>
</figure>
<p id="li7evw">14. <strong>Lightning the Blue Raider</strong>: This is tacky but I respect that. </p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="NCAA Basketball: NCAA Tournament-First Round-Michigan State vs Middle Tennessee State" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/5llJCYdfOpIMBxq77C2JlDmPB64=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/10412867/usa_today_9194207.jpg">
<cite>Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports</cite>
</figure>
<p id="8rg9fV">15. <strong>Gunrock the UC Davis Mustang: </strong>Basically the exact same mascot as Lightning, but with creepy teeth.</p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/mmg6r8vyDQsnHlMxgbS-m84jKCM=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/10413121/o.jpg">
</figure>
<p id="zgoCq7">16. <strong>Donald the Oregon Duck: </strong>This is not Donald Duck. This duck looks like he wants to murder me. I’ll stick to Disney World. But points for creepiness. </p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="NCAA Football: Oregon at Stanford" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/EcHWfezb4u2I3_nEomtm4jhiEhw=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/10412719/usa_today_10347779.jpg">
<cite>Neville E. Guard-USA TODAY Sports</cite>
</figure>
<p id="tJ2lIN">17. <strong>Wagner Seahawk: </strong>This looks like a very amateur mascot. Not a great costume. (There is also very little photographic evidence of him, so IDK how much he is actually used?)</p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/uYGN8yKh1TjchSQWlgjWHSGE7AE=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/10412793/Seahawk.jpg">
<cite>Wagner College</cite>
</figure>
<p id="qmDmQF">18. <strong>Bully the Mississippi State Bulldog: </strong>Oof Bully’s face is rough. Stick to the real bulldog, Mississippi State. The real bulldog is a 10/10. </p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/79f4stEp90HPFufBILG8MgMUb8M=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/10412815/mississippi.jpg">
</figure>
<p id="UTwPCs">19. <strong>Rocky the UNC Asheville Bulldog: </strong>Oh no. I hate this why is his mouth gaping open for eternity like that. But at least it is cute is an unsettling way?</p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/Nf59s-EAczB_G0E3tiWIjfpyMMw=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/10412929/120_Rocky_Mascot.jpg">
<cite>UNC Asheville Athletics</cite>
</figure>
<p id="oQgipm">20. <strong>Buster the Boise State Bronco: </strong>There is something slightly off-putting about Buster, but I can’t but my finger on it? Maybe the fact that he just has one long tooth with no dividing lines?</p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="Mountain West Basketball Tournament - Quarterfinals Boise State v San Diego State" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/c3hszSYZ7f6i74VGHhOOnDD6YAY=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/10413029/140978528.jpg.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images</cite>
</figure>
<p id="zCiN8Y">21. <strong>Swoop the Red-tailed Hawk of Utah: </strong>Why is it so hard for people to make a good bird mascot suit?? This kinda looks like a hawk/sparrow hybrid.</p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="Oregon v Utah" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/V5ULsyRr9stkEDGFVqlcuI2yj1M=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/10413111/929738932.jpg.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images</cite>
</figure>
<p id="19CxRD">22. <strong>The Notre Dame Leprechaun: </strong>This is just a man in a green suit. </p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="NCAA Football: Notre Dame at Miami" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/c2m1BsXu2gxF0iTdoASZC9sIPyc=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/10412931/usa_today_10405707.jpg">
<cite>Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports</cite>
</figure>
<p id="W2iAnT">23. <strong>Herbie the Nebraska Husker: </strong>Wow I truly feel like he is stealing my soul through the screen of my laptop. I respect that he is a nightmare, but I never want to see him again!</p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="NCAA Basketball: Big Ten Conference Tournament-Penn State vs Nebraska" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/ZvQfcDeEzO_kyRo1J_VXVJFnJac=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/10412825/usa_today_9926901.jpg">
<cite>Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports</cite>
</figure>
<p id="acYOrZ">24. <strong>The Penn State Nittany Lion</strong>: Are we sure this is a cougar and not a bear? Also why does his neck flap always go over everything? He upsets me. </p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="NCAA Basketball: Northwestern at Penn State" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/0ni1JBSrHeLiHxi_VL2eZt6Cx2U=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/10412681/usa_today_10540190.jpg">
<cite>Matthew O'Haren-USA TODAY Sports</cite>
</figure>
<p id="VU8ZEt">25. <strong>Azul the Florida Gulf Coast Eagle: </strong>Are we sure this isn’t a crazed seagull?</p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="Florida Gulf Coast v Georgetown" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/xOemXGzoKGILQy64T0P8C11lZ7I=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/10413003/164344081.jpg.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Elsa/Getty Images</cite>
</figure>
<p id="Iaf2v6">26. <strong>Cosmo the BYU Cougar: </strong>WHY DOES HE HAVE A WERECOUGAR-LIKE FACE I don’t like it he looks vaguely humanoid. NO THANKS.</p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="San Diego v Brigham Young" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/ZQLUhAd6lSsJxnD0-a9nAGL_Fak=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/10412983/927338548.jpg.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images</cite>
</figure>
<p id="1M1ahd">27. <strong>Pistol Pete of Oklahoma State: </strong>....no.</p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="Oklahoma State v Oklahoma" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/M1vcz9NyXYDdp7dQqiHbJAAFhII=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/10412991/628285640.jpg.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Brett Deering/Getty Images</cite>
</figure>
<p id="ujqaE3">28. <strong>The St. Mary’s Gael: </strong>Wow every time I think the mascots can’t get worse, they do. </p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="WCC Basketball Tournament - Championship Gonzaga v Saint Mary's" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/dSqErtZbCoWpSSweS-2rWSnXQvA=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/10413019/140745263.jpg.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images</cite>
</figure>
<p id="6QZqJ3">29. <strong>Mike the LSU Tiger: </strong>This isn’t a terribly offensive tiger costume, but it isn’t great. But LSU loses because it is absolutely unacceptable that the university has a live tiger mascot. </p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="AdvoCare V100 Texas Bowl - LSU v Texas Tech" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/gHkl4lGR0IMKIOM6ydYB9_QlT9I=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/10413077/502877084.jpg.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Scott Halleran/Getty Images</cite>
</figure>
<p id="70isVx"></p>
<p id="PGAn3t">(<strong>Harvard</strong> doesn’t have a real mascot, so they lose.)</p>
<p id="sYeoBP">(It seems as though Cayenne has been retired by <strong>Louisiana</strong>, which is a travesty.)</p>
<p id="uCNKk5">(<strong>The Stanford Tree</strong> is the unofficial winner because it is terrifying and amazing, but it changes too often to really rank it.)</p>
<p id="sZIdPZ"><strong>How wrong am I? Let me know in the comments! But I won’t change my mind. </strong></p>
https://www.bcinterruption.com/2018/3/13/17112470/the-official-bci-2018-nit-mascot-rankingsLaura Berestecki2018-03-13T09:28:32-04:002018-03-13T09:28:32-04:00The Cheat Sheet: Boston College vs Western Kentucky
<figure>
<img alt="NCAA Basketball: ACC Conference Tournament-NC State vs Boston College" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/V7g78oBnAePZbQSju377i_MkwNM=/167x0:2683x1677/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/59008185/usa_today_10685733.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Nicole Sweet-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p id="TigMTT"> </p>
<p id="3BDrQl">Do you want to know more about BC’s opponent besides its won-loss record? No problem. BCI brings you the “cheat sheet” for a quick rundown of BC’s next opponent, Western Kentucky.</p>
<p id="0nYq8G"><strong>Recent Results</strong></p>
<p id="EpKTcK">The Hilltoppers are a four seed in <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nit-tournament">the NIT</a> Tournament and are only one of the four Mid-Major teams that are hosting a first round game in the NIT. The other 12 games are being hosted by Power Five teams. </p>
<p id="SEpkec">Most recently Western Kentucky fell short in an unbelieveable comeback attempt against Marshall in the Conference USA Championship game. Down 12 with just 3:40 left, WKU went on a 11-0 run to end the game and fell just short of punching a ticket to the Big Dance.</p>
<p id="Kz9jDg"><strong>Personnel</strong></p>
<p id="bVe8Jc">WKU has a balanced scoring attack that features five players averaging double digit points per game. The leader of the bunch is 1<sup>st</sup> Team All-CUSA forward <span>Justin Johnson</span> who leads the team in scoring (15.3) and rebounding (9.6). <span>Johnson</span> goes at 6’7” and nearly 250 pounds and is kind of an old school power forward. Johnson spends a lot of time inside the three point line and uses his build to get good position inside to score, or to set screens for his guards on pick and rolls. The senior forward has only attempted 98 three pointers all season but has hit 42.9% of them. If you don’t respect him popping out for three he is capable of beating you that way as well.</p>
<p id="iNKLOB">Another big man that could cause problems for BC is center Dwight Coleby. The 6’9” center averages 11 points and 8 rebounds per game and while he doesn’t have a lot of moves in the paint the guards do a great job of driving to the hoop and dishing to Coleby for open dunks down low.</p>
<p id="BOG2nH">The other two players that stand out on film are guards <span>Darius Thompson</span> (2<sup>nd</sup> Team All-CUSA) and <span>Taveion Hollingsworth</span> (All-CUSA Freshmen Team). While both players have a little bit different skillsets they are both exceptional at finding lanes into the paint and drawing fouls or dishing to teammates for open shots. A lot of the time these drives are setup by screens from Johnson. WKU’s screen and roll game is a huge concern as BC has had trouble defending this all year. </p>
<p id="tFT74p"><strong>Behind the Numbers</strong></p>
<p id="1BCB8G">In a day and age where it seems every team likes to bomb away from three WKU is kind of refreshing to watch. The Hilltoppers have attempted the 21<sup>st</sup> least three pointers in the country and have the 15<sup>th</sup> highest amount of free throw attempts. WKU also had the 37<sup>th</sup> best two point field goal percentage in the country at 54.6%. In a nutshell, WKU is usually in attack mode at the rim and is looking to get a dunk or a foul off of that action. While not a team that prefers to shoot the three, WKU does shoot a respectable 35.9% from three if the situation calls for it.</p>
<p id="hePcSF">There aren’t a lot of holes in WKU’s statistical data except its three point shooting defense which allows 36.3% which is a fairly high average. With the three point line moving back 20 inches for this tournament it’s unclear if BC will be able to take advantage of this deficiency in the WKU defense.</p>
<p id="ddphzW"><strong>What to Expect</strong></p>
<p id="dGIJPi">Don’t get me wrong it’s very exciting that BC was able to qualify for the NIT and I’m sure all BC fans are very appreciative of the selection. That being said, the NIT didn’t do BC any favors in the seeding. As mentioned earlier only four Mid-Major programs were awarded first round home games, and of those four teams only Western Kentucky and Boise State draw Power Five teams, meaning BC and Washington are the only Power Five teams in the NIT heading on the road to a Mid-Major. Why is this a big deal? Because usually the Mid-Major programs are very excited to host a Power Five team at home since they don’t get the chance to during the regular season. For a program like Western Kentucky with a lot of history this is a very big deal. On top of this, BC hasn’t beaten a good team in a true road game all year. </p>
<p id="iBkQ3K">Aside from the location of the game this seems like a touch match-up for BC. The Hilltoppers have proven on a few different occasions that they can hang with good and even great teams this year losing to Villanova by 8, beating Purdue by 4 and losing to Wisconsin by 1. All of those games were away from home by the way. </p>
<p id="ZJ5XHc">WKU’s screen and roll game is going to pose a huge problem for BC. Thankfully for the Eagles, WKU doesn’t have much of a shot blocking presence aside from Coleby down low, and even he isn’t on par with some of the shot blockers that BC has faced in the ACC this year. <span>Jerome Robinson</span> and <span>Ky Bowman</span> should be able to score at will like they have all year. That being said I think the three point line moving back actually hurts BC more than WKU and I’m taking the Hilltoppers at home.</p>
https://www.bcinterruption.com/2018/3/13/17113716/the-cheat-sheet-boston-college-vs-western-kentucky-nit-basketballEric Hoff2018-03-12T19:09:36-04:002018-03-12T19:09:36-04:00Five Good Minutes: Talking NIT and Hilltopper Basketball with The Towel Rack
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<img alt="Western Kentucky v Kansas" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/LUODwqIWOoIhRZB-2VQlXZv7qYs=/0x479:3264x2655/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/59002817/164816016.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Ed Zurga/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Everything you need to know about BC’s first round opponent from a WKU expert</p> <p id="0EFYw1">Fletcher Keel is the editor of The Towel Rack, a WKU blog. He gave us some inside information on BC’s first round NIT opponent. Get all your answers below, and then check out <a href="http://TheTowelRackWKU.com">The Towel Rack</a> for our answers to the Hilltoppers’ questions. Thanks, Fletcher!</p>
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<p id="DfhwUS"><strong>BCI:</strong> <em>The Hilltoppers had a strong season in Conference USA and finished with a top-50 ranked offense. What makes the WKU offense so efficient and what should BC fans look out for on that end?</em></p>
<p id="2DExiq"><strong>Fletcher: </strong>WKU’s offense runs through <span>Darius Thompson</span>, a grad-transfer from Virginia, who finished second on the team in points per game and first in assists, but those numbers alone don’t come close to telling the story. When Darius is on, the Tops’ offense is unstopable. He led WKU in Points Produced throughout the season (502), and if the Tops had an off-night, all you had to do was look at Darius’ stat line and understand why.</p>
<p id="PUjGCM">But, this is the first WKU team in a long time that could get it done anywhere on the court; true-freshman <span>Taveion Hollingsworth</span> looks more and more less like a freshman with each game, as he and forward <span>Justin Johnson</span> (WKU’s most complete player) are threats from three, while Johonson and Kansas transfer <span>Dwight Coleby</span> can get it done inside the paint.</p>
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<p id="5QJ0DG"><strong>BCI: </strong><em>How has the defense been for you guys this year? Should BC be expecting the zone or mostly man?</em></p>
<p id="wf0V4m"><strong>Fletcher:</strong> WKU started the year with only 8 available players, and because of that they implored (and found a ton of success with) the <a href="https://medium.com/the-red-towel/how-wku-basketball-is-able-to-compete-with-eight-players-62572414fd40">1-3-1 zone defense</a>. Since getting <span>Josh Anderson</span> and <span>Moustapha Diagne</span> cleared, they’ve been playing more man, but still pretty much relying on the zone. This weekend for example - the Tops would open with that 1-3-1 set and then move into a 2-3 zone once the offensive side of the ball was calmed down a bit.</p>
<p id="kcvHR5">However, the strategy changed (and wound up burning the Tops) against Marshall, where it was man-to-man until the final four minutes, when they reverted back to a 1-3-1 and began to make a run at the game. (Thanks to my writer, Matt McCay, for helping me identify this. He also penned the article I linked.)</p>
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<p id="4AJggq"><strong>BCI:</strong> <em>Western Kentucky basketball has a great history but east coast fans might not know too much about your school. Can you tell us a little bit about the programs history? And what is a hilltopper?</em></p>
<p id="cOrxSW"><strong>Fletcher:</strong> They do indeed. WKU had a <em>ton </em>of success “back in the day” - really from the 1930’s until the late 70’s, early 80’s, they were one of the premier programs in the country, and were dominant in their conferences during that time span. Coaches such as E.A. Diddle (who the Tops’ arena is named after) and John Oldham (who the court is named after) have helmmed the program, but as have guys like Dennis Felton, Clem Haskins (who also played in a Tops’ uniform) and Ray Harper (now making noise at Jacksonville St.). One of the first things Rick Stansbury said when he was hired following the 2015/16 season was he wanted to put WKU back on the map, and back in the realm of top-flight college hoops, which he’s well on his way to doing after just two years.</p>
<p id="sD0VrB">The joke among WKU’s rivals is all the success was ages ago, which is true, but the Tops were so dominant that they still hold a Top 10 all-time winning percentage in less than 100 years and, while they have no titles and one vacated final four to show, the rafters are far from bare and the feeling around the program is one of the most positive that it’s been in a while.</p>
<p id="2uo5hp">It’s a proud tradition, and one that many fans feel could come back sooner rather than later.</p>
<p id="5bh68g">As for “What is a Hilltopper,” it’s quite simple - the campus itself is located on a Hill (and, if you’re ever in the Bowling Green area, I highly recommend stopping by. A true hidden gem), and the teams used to play on top of the Hill (all of the athletic facilities are now located at the bottom) so, by nature, they were on Top of the hill -- Hilltoppers! </p>
<p id="8N5Ud0">Our infamous mascot, Big Red, is the personification of the Hill (as he is small at the head and gradually gets bigger as you go down the body). Oh, and the red towel that you’ll see on John Oldham court, as well as in the hands of everyone in the arena - Diddle would hold a red towel as he coached on the sideline, and it became the official icon for WKU athletics.</p>
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<p id="Blra3C"><strong>BCI:</strong> <em>What do you think about the experimental rule changes for </em><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nit-tournament"><em>the NIT</em></a><em> this year? How will they affect your a squad? </em></p>
<p id="MdZa50"><strong>Fletcher:</strong> I’ll be honest with you, I didn’t watch last year’s tournament with those changes, so I don’t know really what to expect in a general sense. I will say I don’t hate the quarters instead of halves, and the three-point extension will be the rule that most affects WKU, with guys like Hollingsworth, Johnson and <span>Thompson</span> (and freshman <span>Jake Ohmer</span>, who started the year red hot but has been considerably cool since conference play) loving the 3 ball, it’ll be interesting (or devastating) to see how sharp shooting the Tops are.</p>
<p id="CfdOj0">Also, if the 20-second shotclock following an offensive rebound help speeds the game a bit and put more points on the board, I think I’m all for it. I think.</p>
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<p id="Azo5Mv"><strong>BCI:</strong> <em>Who wins this one? How far are the Hilltoppers going in the tourney?</em></p>
<p id="Zq2TJJ"><strong>Fletcher:</strong> I’m gonna level with you once again, and I hope none of my regular readers are reading - I wasn’t feeling great about the Tops’ chances against Marshall. WKU ended the year as cold as can be but were the exact opposite to start the C-USA tourney. On Saturday, we saw both sides of the coin, and I think finishing the game the way they did (an 11-0 run over the final 3:40+) is going to give them the confidence they need to start fast against BC. On paper, the Tops match up well, and in my view a bit better, than BC, and I think WKU pulls it out - the aforementioned <span>Justin Johnson</span> has been on the Hill for four years and this is his first post-conference tourney game, and he isn’t going to want to go out one-and done.</p>
<p id="6fRrfA">Points will be scored, fun will be had, and I think WKU closes out an 83-77 win over BC.</p>
<p id="1WLBQx">As for how far WKU will go, I’m hesitant to say. I like the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/odds">odds</a> against UNC-Asheville, but I’m less certain about a potential matchup vs. USC. If they can get the breaks, a quarterfinal trip isn’t impossible and this team has the talent to make it to New York, but some of that thinking is also wishful thinking.</p>
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https://www.bcinterruption.com/2018/3/12/17111794/five-good-minutes-talking-nit-and-hilltopper-basketball-with-the-towel-rackKatie Bent2018-03-11T21:10:58-04:002018-03-11T21:10:58-04:00Boston College Eagles Draw Western Kentucky in NIT
<figure>
<img alt="NCAA Basketball: ACC Conference Tournament-Clemson vs Boston College" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/b9tMRF-_PJ1StoASb-mFd3p56W8=/0x0:3725x2483/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/58990639/usa_today_10687453.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Nicole Sweet-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Go Eagles!</p> <p id="xxZ9f2">BC’s season will continue in March! The Eagles capped off a surprising and successful regular season by being selected to play in <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nit-tournament">the NIT</a>. The invitation is obviously a big step for a program that won only six ACC games over the past three seasons.</p>
<p id="1lHwl1">The Eagles will head on the road in round one to play Western Kentucky, the tournament runner-up in Conference USA. The Hilltoppers are 24-10 overall and went 14-4 in conference. </p>
<p id="wSOMBq">Western Kentucky is a pretty historic basketball program and had its share of success this year which includes wins over teams in the Big Dance. The Hilltoppers knocked off Purdue back in November, Wright State in December and Marshall twice in conference play.</p>
<p id="CSD33U">The match-up is intriguing as both teams are quite efficient on offense. According to KenPom.com, WKU has the 50<sup>th</sup> most efficient offense in the country and 48<sup>th</sup> highest effective FG%. The Hilltoppers offensive strategy is to take the ball to the rim as evident by extremely high amount of free throw attempts (15<sup>th</sup> highest) and low amount of three point attempts (21<sup>st</sup> least in country). This is a very important stat to remember as the three point line is being moved back in NIT play this year. It’s clear the rule wont effect the Hilltoppers much.</p>
<p id="YbzWH8">The good news for BC is WKU has some big time defensive issues especially defending the three. The Hilltoppers allowed 36.3% from three this year which was 246<sup>th</sup> nationally. </p>
<p id="IrGhIL">If BC can get by Western Kentucky it would most likely head west to take on USC. The Trojans were one of the major snubs from <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/march-madness">March Madness</a> and could either come out super motivated for the NIT or not care. We should get a feeling for USC’s motivation after its first game against UNC Asheville.</p>
<p id="Hn1Tuo"> </p>
<p id="YZLwmX">Below are complete match-ups from BC’s bracket:</p>
<ul>
<li id="oAa3nP">No. 1 USC hosts No. 8 UNC Asheville</li>
<li id="jYESC3">No. 4 Western Kentucky hosts No. 8 Boston College</li>
<li id="P5JfSJ">No. 3 Stanford hosts No. 6 BYU</li>
<li id="2LW7u9">No. 2 Oklahoma State hosts No. 7 Florida Gulf Coast</li>
</ul>
<p id="xqIUgT"> </p>
https://www.bcinterruption.com/2018/3/11/17108084/eagles-draw-western-kentucky-in-nit-boston-college-basketballEric Hoff2018-03-11T20:50:55-04:002018-03-11T20:50:55-04:002018 NIT Full Bracket
<figure>
<img alt="UCLA v Arizona" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/kura1mG02rNQYtvzu_UeARipbSc=/0x33:3000x2033/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/58990393/930127678.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p id="qDXum7">Boston College men’s basketball was selected to participate in the National Invitation Tournament after a strong finish in the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/acc-basketball-tournament">ACC Tournament</a>, beating Georgia Tech and North Carolina State to finish the season with 19 wins. They will be a # 5 seed, facing #4 Western Kentucky on Western Kentucky’s campus on Tuesday at 8 PM. If they advance, they will see the winner of #1 USC and #8 UNC Asheville in the second round on the campus of the higher seed. </p>
<p id="azRuOs">This year’s NIT will feature some experimental rules. These include four 10-minute quarters rather than continuous 20-minute halves, a widened free throw lane, an extended 3-point line, and a partial rest of the shot clock to 20 seconds after an offensive foul. Check out full bracket below. </p>
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<p id="bpGpSk"><strong>Round 1: </strong><em>March 13-14 at campus sites</em></p>
<p id="KCGnqn">#1 Notre Dame vs. #8 Hampton</p>
<p id="WG6cdv">#4Penn State vs. #5 Temple</p>
<p id="YYiZ5u"></p>
<p id="o4DoPr">#3 Oregon vs. #6 Rider</p>
<p id="u0cOpL">#2 Marquette vs. #7 Harvard</p>
<p id="pdTPuf"></p>
<p id="MymYwN">#1 Baylor vs. #8 Wagner</p>
<p id="mzutnI">#4 Mississippi State vs. #5 Nebraska</p>
<p id="3JQLyL"></p>
<p id="A8TF94">#3 Middle Tennessee vs. #6 Vermont</p>
<p id="8Texu2">#2 Louisville vs. #7 Northern Kentucky</p>
<p id="PXRPbf"></p>
<p id="Rdnvqa">#1 USC vs. #8 UNC Asheville</p>
<p id="ewisKO">#4 Western Kentucky vs. #5 Boston College</p>
<p id="ZCzHUT"></p>
<p id="MX0CXn">#3 Stanford vs. #6 BYU</p>
<p id="BLeQqZ">#2 Oklahoma State vs. #7 Florida Gulf Coast</p>
<p id="mit6KH"></p>
<p id="87Ipf7">#1 St. Mary’s vs. #8 SE Louisiana</p>
<p id="kCn08P">#4 Boise St vs. #5 Washington</p>
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<p id="ZAbT98">#3 LSU vs. #6 Louisiana</p>
<p id="jJTFkt">#2 Utah vs. #7 UC Davis</p>
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<p id="mKU5aB"><strong>Round 2: </strong><em>March 15-19 at campus sites</em></p>
<p id="lOfQae"><strong>Quarterfinals: </strong><em>March 20-21 at campus sites</em></p>
<p id="dVhz5Z"><strong>Semifinals: </strong><em>Tuesday, March 27 at Madison Square Garden</em></p>
<p id="VuQAuk"><strong>Finals: </strong><em>Thursday, March 29 at Madison Square Garden</em></p>
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<figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/pWLt3A85zSxhs8Khlh9C3RDC70g=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/10405055/Screen_Shot_2018_03_11_at_8.59.18_PM.png">
</figure>
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https://www.bcinterruption.com/2018/3/11/17107888/2018-nit-full-bracket-boston-college-eagesKatie Bent2018-03-11T19:30:01-04:002018-03-11T19:30:01-04:00OPEN THREAD: NIT Selection Special
<figure>
<img alt="NCAA Basketball: ACC Conference Tournament-Clemson vs Boston College" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/ve7xeihWhYzSRTStuT77oCee0Jk=/0x0:4086x2724/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/58989159/usa_today_10687761.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Will BC make it? Is the season over for the Eagles? Share your thoughts below!</p> <p id="0UFYiY"><strong>WHAT</strong></p>
<p id="Gwx89w">The National Invitational Tournament 32-team bracket will be revealed tonight on ESPNU. Finishing with a 19-5 record and a nine ACC wins, the Eagles will find out if they have done enough to secure a bid and who they’ll be facing. If they do make the tournament, BC would play the first round on March 13th or 14th, likely at Conte Forum.</p>
<p id="Rb79pM"><strong>WHEN</strong></p>
<p id="kIe4JX">The selection show airs at 8:30 PM on Sunday, March 11.</p>
<p id="FlND81"><strong>HOW TO WATCH</strong></p>
<p id="4WRgMc">Tune into ESPNU tonight.</p>
<p id="E7DeNB"><strong>HOW TO FOLLOW ALONG ON TWITTER</strong></p>
<p id="KyCPl8">@bcinterruption, @BCMBB, @choppintoppin, @mattoneil55, @yourfriendktb, @EJHoffses</p>
<p id="w6S6GC"><strong>BC’S CREDENTIALS</strong></p>
<p id="RIr3W1">Record: 19-15, 9-11 ACC</p>
<p id="2dyxJo">Conference Tournament: 2-1 as 12th seed, reached quarterfinals</p>
<p id="HKe8pZ">Best wins: 89-84 over Duke; 81-75 over FSU; 72-70 over Miami; 91-87 over NC State in <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/acc-basketball-tournament"><strong>ACC Tournament</strong></a> 2nd round</p>
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<p id="PtVoWZ"><em><strong>Will BC make </strong></em><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nit-tournament"><em><strong>the NIT</strong></em></a><em><strong>? Is BC’s season over? Who should’ve made the NIT but didn’t? Who made the NIT but shouldn’t have? Tell us all your thoughts on BC MBB and the NIT in the comments!</strong></em></p>
https://www.bcinterruption.com/2018/3/11/17107664/open-thread-nit-selection-specialLaura Berestecki