
UMKC Will Travel To Manhattan To Take On No. 11 Kansas State
12/22/2010 3:32:00 PM | Men's Basketball
THE SETTING
The UMKC men's basketball team (7-4, 0-2) will hit the road when it travels to Manhattan, Kan., to take on No. 11 Kansas State (9-3) on Dec. 23. The game between the 'Roos and the Wildcats is set for a 7:05 p.m. tip-off at Bramlage Coliseum.
ON THE AIR
Radio: 1140/1160 AM (Steven Davis - p-b-p, Steven St. John - color)
TV: Fox Sports Kansas City
Listen Online: 1510.com
Twitter: TheUMKCRoos
LAST TIME OUT
The 'Roos picked up their sixth straight home win to open the season after defeating Houston Baptist, 73-51, on Tuesday night at the Swinney Recreation Center. The 'Roos scored 28 points off 21 Huskie turnovers, while out-scoring them 26-16 in the paint.
Junior Reggie Chamberlain led the UMKC scoring attack, registering a career-high 23 points on 9-of-12 shooting, including 5-of-8 from three-point range, while also dishing out four assists. Senior Jay Couisnard, meanwhile, chipped in 14 points, along with six rebounds, six assists, two steals and a block. Fellow senior Spencer Johnson finished with 13 points and nine rebounds, while Bakari Lewis added 15 points and four assists.
For the third straight home game, the 'Roos buried 10 or more threes, knocking down 12-of 31 on the night, while out-scoring the Huskies 12-7 on second chance points and 16-2 on fast break points.
SCOUTING KANSAS STATE
Kansas State enters Thursday night's contest as the No. 11 ranked team in the country with a 9-3 record overall. The Wildcats have lost consecutive games to Florida and UNLV, while seniors Jacob Pullen (16.5 points per game, 3.8 assists per game, 3.7 rebounds per game, 1.9 steals per game) and Curits Kelly (10.3 points per game, 4.0 rebounds per game) will miss their second straight games while serving an NCAA suspension. Sophomore Rodney McGruder will be Kansas State's top scorer in the game, as the guard is netting 10.3 points per game along with 6.8 rebounds per game, while junior Jamar Samuels is averaging 9.0 points and 6.5 rebounds per game.
THE SERIES
Kansas State leads the all-time series between the two schools, 14-1, with the 'Roos picking up their only win in the series in the last meeting in 2003, 93-52. The 41 point win is the seventh largest margin of victory in school history. In that game, the Kangaroos placed six players in double figures and was the first UMKC win against a Big 12 Conference opponent since Dec. 8, 2000, when the Kangaroos handed Nebraska an 82-7 defeat at Lincoln. It also was the school's 200th victory at the NCAA Division I level.
Junior forward MIke English and senior guard Michael Watson tied for game-high honors with 18 points each. Sophomore forward Brandon Lipsey added 14 points, while senior guard Javon Clark contributed 11 points. Sophomore center Carlton Aaron and junior guard Brandon Temple each scored 10 points.
UMKC shot 48.2 percent (27-56) from the field for the game, and converted 32 of 39 free throw attempts for an 82. percentage. Kansas State was 20-56 from the field (35.7 percent) and 2-for-5 (3.3 percent) from three-point range. The 'Roos outrebounded KSU, 38-32, led by Lipsey, English and Watson with seven boards apiece.
THE COACHES
UMKC head coach Matt Brown is in his fourth season with the UMKC men's basketball program, where he has compiled an 33-67 overall record and has coached four players to all-Summit League recognition. Former forward Dane Brumagin was a second team all-league honoree and Reggie Hamilton was an all-newcomer team selection in 2007-08, before Brumagin and Jay Couisnard were honorable mention all-league honorees in 2008-09 and 2009-10, respectively. Couisnard was also chosen to The Summit League all-Newcomer team.
Frank Martin has become one of the nation's hottest young coaches after guiding K-State to one of its greatest seasons ever in 2009-10.
In just his third season at the helm, Martin led the Wildcats to within one game of the Final Four and the school's first Top 10 final ranking since 1973 en route to breaking numerous team and individual school records. In the process, the team posted a school-record 29 wins and a Big 12 era high 11 victories and defeated 12 teams that advanced to the postseason, including eight in the NCAA Tournament. For his efforts, Martin was a near unanimous selection for Big 12 Conference Coach the Year and a candidate for numerous National Coach of the Year awards.
FEELING RIGHT AT HOME
With its 73-51 win over Houston Baptist on Dec. 21, the UMKC men's basketball team improved its home record to 6-0 on the season, topping the 4-0 mark by the 2001-02 squad for the best start at home since the team moved to Division I. In games at the SRC this season, the 'Roos are out-scoring their opponents 72.5-60.0, while collecting 6.3 more rebounds per contest.
STEPPING UP
With leading scorer Jay Couisnard in foul trouble and second leading scorer Spencer Johnson being held scoreless, the 'Roos needed a few other guys to step up. Trinity Hall, Michael Gholston, Jr., and Bernard Kamwa did just that. Each of the three players recorded their career-highs in points (Hall-18, Gholston, Jr.-11, Kamwa-11), combining for 40 points, 11 rebounds, three assists, two steals, and five three-pointers.
MARKSMEN FROM THE LINE
A trio of 'Roos are shooting better than 75 percent from the free throw line this season. Junior Reggie Chamberlain leads the way at 80.8 percent (21-26), while Senior Bakari Lewis and Freshman Trinity Hall are close behind at 80 percent (24-30) and 75.8 percent (25-33), respectively. As of the beginning of the week, all threer anked in the top-six of the Summit League, with Hall sitting third, Chamberlain fourth and Lewis tied for sixth.
UNDEFEATED WHEN...
Several scenarios have resulted in perfect records for the 'Roos, including: Finishing with a high FG% than the opponent (7-0), playing at home (6-0), shooting more free throws (4-0), scoring 60-69 points (4-0), holding the opponent to 60-69 points (4-0), finishing with less turnovers (4-0), shooting at least 40 percent on threes (2-0), wearing white uniforms (3-0), registering more assists (3-0), playing on KSMO (2-0), playing on Wednesday (2-0), playing on Tuesday (2-0) and playing on Friday (1-0).
BOMBS AWAY
In the past two home games, against Utah Valley and North Dakota, the 'Roos have hit 10 threes apiece. Leading the three-point barrage against UVU were seniors Jay Couisnard and Spencer Johnson. Johnson finished with a career-high tying four three-pointers on seven attempts, while Couisnard also tied his career-high with three three balls on a career-high seven attempts. Against UND, Trinity Hall buried a career-high three, three-pointers, while Couisnard, Bakari Lewis and Michael Gholston, Jr., nailed two.
3-0 AGAINST THE GREAT WEST
With the 73-51 win over Houston Baptist, the 'Roos finished the season with a 3-0 record against teams from the Great West Conference. In the three games, UMKC is out-scoring Utah Valley, North Dakota and Houston Baptist a combined 70.7-58.3, while out-shooting them from three-point range 42.1 percent to 34.7 precent.
DIME MEN
For the third consecutive home game, the 'Roos finished with 14 or more assists, registering a season-high 17 in the win over Houston Baptist. Over that stretch, the sqaud has amassed 46 total dimes, led by Bakari Lewis' 12 and Reggie Chamberlain's nine.
100 CAREER GAMES
When he took the court against Idaho State, senior Spencer Johnson competed in his 100th game as a 'Roo. In his four years, the forward is averaging 7.5 points per game and 5.2 rebounds per game. His 762 career points rank 13th all-time in school history, while his 529 rebounds are sixth best. His 14 double-doubles, meanwhile, are the third most in UMKC history and his 15 double-digit rebound performances rank third as well.
SUMMIT LEAGUE LEADERS
Senior Spencer Johnson's 9.3 rebounds per game currently place him second in the Summit League in rebounding, behind only Summit League Preseason Player of the Year Keith Benson, while his 10.8 points per game rank 28th, his 53.9 percent from the field ranks fourth and his 42.4 percent on three-pointers is ninth best. Jay Couisnard (15.7 ppg), meanwhile, ranks seventh in the league in scoring, ninth in blocks (0.9 bpg) and tied for 13th in steals (1.1 spg), while Reggie Chamberlain is fourth in steals (1.6 spg) and Bakari Lewis is eighth in assists (2.7 apg).
WELCOME BACK REGGIE
Junior Reggie Chamberlain faced a familiar foe on Monday night when the 6-0 guard dropped a career-high 20 points on his former team, Wichita State. Chamberlain, in his first season as a 'Roo, nailed 4-of-9 three pointers against the team he played for during the 2008-09 season.
CAREER NIGHTS
In the Nov. 24 game against SIU Edwardsville, two 'Roo seniors had career nights, highlighted by senior Jay Couisnard. Couisnard posted a new career-high of 26 points, while Spencer Johnson collected 14 rebounds to tie his then career-high and is averaging 10.0 rebounds per game for the season, the second best mark in The Summit League.
MICROWAVE LEWIS
In the Nov. 20 game against Southeast Missouri State, senior guard Bakari Lewis did his best Vinnie "Microwave" Johnson impression, scoring nine points, on 3-3 shooting from three-point range, in a 1:15 stretch off the bench in the first half. Lewis nailed his first three with the 'Roos down 11-5 and his second down 13-8, while his third gave the 'Roos their first lead of the game at 14-13.
CLUTCH DOWN THE STRETCH
Junior Reggie Chamberlain came up huge for the 'Roos down the stretch in the Nov. 16 game with Central Arkansas. In just his second game as a 'Roo, Chamberlain scored eight points in the final 1:42 to help UMKC to the victory. Among his eight points were a pair of three pointers that each gave the 'Roos the lead in the contest.
SUCCESSFUL DEBUTS
Three 'Roos made their debuts in the Blue & Gold against Truman State on Nov. 12, and the results were all positive. Freshman Trinity Hall finished second on the team in both points (10) and rebounds (six), while junior transfer Reggie Chamberlain started and recorded six points, three assists and two rebounds. Junior Bernard Kamwa, meanwhile, started at center for the 'Roos and pulled down five boards and chipped in two points on a dunk.
FRESH OFF THE SIGNING BLOCK
On Wednesday, UMKC Head Coach Matt Brown announced that Estan Tyler has signed a National Letter of Intent to continue his education and playing career with the UMKC men's basketball program starting with the 2011-12 season. The 6-1, 175-lb. guard joins the 'Roos out of St. Paul Johnson where he was ranked as the top point guard in Minnesota's senior class of 2011 by MinnesotaPrep.com. As a junior, Tyler led St. Paul Johnson to a perfect 32-0 record and the state championship, while leading the Governors in scoring (14 ppg), assists (4.1 apg) and free throw percentage (78.9). Tyler is the first player to join the 'Roos' 2011 recruiting class, as well as the first player to sign in the early signing period and the first to sign from Minnesota during Brown's tenure as head coach of the squad.
COUISNARD NAMED SUMMIT LEAGUE PLAYER OF THE WEEK
UMKC senior forward Jay Couisnard was named The Summit League Player of the Week on Nov. 22. The Houston, Texas, native earned the honor after averaging 18.5 points per game and 4.0 rebounds per game, along with five blocks and four steals in wins over Central Arkansas and Southeast Missouri State.
LAST SEASON
The UMKC men's basketball team made strides forward during the 2009-10 season, as the squad posted a 12-20 record, which were the most victories for the program during the Matt Brown era. The 'Roos also returned to the post season for the 14th time in school history, playing in The Summit League Championship in Sioux Falls as the No. 8 seed. Junior Jay Couisnard was named to The Summit League all-Newcomer and Honorable Mention all-Summit League squads after pacing the squad with 14.0 points per game, while fellow junior Spencer Johnson led the squad on the boards for the second straight season, finishing with 175 rebounds (5.8 rpg.) in 30 games. The Illinois native was the first player since Jimmy Keller (1997-99) to pace the team on the glass in consecutive seasons. Johnson now has 427 career rebounds, which rank seventh in school history. Kirk Korver, meanwhile, placed his name in the UMKC freshmen records, finishing fourth in three-point field goal percentage (.386 (27-70)), ninth in three-point field goals (27), tied for ninth in three-point attempts (70) and 10th in field goal percentage (.413 (45-109)).
SWINNEY GETS A FACE LIFT
The new home of the 'Roos, the Swinney Recreation Center, underwent a major face lift this off-season in time for the 2010-11 season. New chairback-style seating was installed, giving all fans a comfortable environment with a defined seat - no more general admission, and no more bleachers without backs. Parking on campus will continue to be free. All season ticket holders will receive a special pass for the parking lot on the east side of Swinney (bordered by Rockhill Road) and a golf-cart shuttle will run between the parking lots and Swinney to assist any fans in need. Lastly, a new and improved concessions stand will feature an improved selection along with additional staffing.
BACK HOME IN THE HEART OF CAMPUS
The UMKC men's basketball team is making a move back to campus, as 14 of the 15 home games will be played at the newly renovated Swinney Recreation Center. In past seasons, the 'Roos have played their home games at Municipal Auditorium, where they posted a 152-108 record and Kemper Arena, where they posted a 15-15 mark. This season however, only the Jan. 8 contest with Southern Utah will take place at Municipal, while all other games will be held in the heart of campus at the Swinney Recreation Center. The 'Roos posted a 3-3 mark at the SRC last season.
SENIOR CAPTAINS
The three 'Roo seniors, Jay Couisnard, Spencer Johnson and Bakari Lewis, will serve as tri-captains on this season's squad. Last season, the trio combined 30.8 ppg and 13.2 rpg and are the top-three leading scores returning to the 2010-11 team. Couisnard and Johnson return for their second season as captains, while Lewis will be entering his first season as captain.
2010-11 SUMMIT LEAGUE PRESEASON POLL
The UMKC men's basketball team has been picked eighth, tallying 177 points, in The Summit League Preseason Poll, which was voted on by the league coaches, SIDs and media. Defending regular season and tournament champion Oakland garnered 29-of-34 first-place votes and was tabbed as the favorite to win the 2010-11 Summit League Men's Basketball Championship. Oral Roberts was chosen second, followed by IUPUI, NDSU, SDSU, IPFW, Western Illinois, UMKC, Southern Utah and Centenary.
COUISNARD NAMED PRESEASON SECOND TEAM ALL-LEAGUE
Senior Jay Couisnard was selected as a preseason second team all-league honoree by a vote of the league's coaches, SIDs and media. Couisnard joins Eric Carlson (NDSU), Leroy Nobles (IUPUI), Clint Sargent (SDSU) and Larry Wright (Oakland) on the second team, while Preseason Player of the Year selection Keith Benson (Oakland) leads the first team that features Ceola Clark (WIU), Michael Craion and Dominique Morrison (ORU), Michael Tveidt (NDSU) and Alex Young (IUPUI).
DEPTH IN THE BACKCOURT
The Kangaroos will look to senior Bakari Lewis to guide the guard position in 2010-11, as he is one of three returnees to the backcourt. Juniors Michael Gholston, Jr. and Dustin Dibble also return in the backcourt to go along with redshirt junior Reggie Chamberlain and walk-on Trevor Mason.
SCORING FROM THE WINGS
The 'Roos will return the most experience on its roster at the forward position where seniors Jay Couisnard and Spencer Johnson return to the fold. UMKC will also benefit from having sophomore Max Rockmann at its disposal for the entire season, while also welcoming talented freshman Trinity Hall.
SIZE UP FRONT
For the first time in Coach Brown's tenure, the Kangaroos will have depth and experience in the post position heading into the season. UMKC returns two sophomores - Kirk
Korver and Fred Chatmon - to go along with junior college transfer Bernard Kamwa to give the team a wide array of options at the five position.
KC METRO 'ROOS
The 2010-11 roster will feature five players from the Kansas City metro area, including Kansas City, Mo., native and first-year 'Roo Reggie Chamberlain (Kansas City, Mo./Raytown HS). Joining Chamberlain on the squad are juniors Michael Gholston, Jr. (Raytown, Mo./Raytown South HS) and Trevor Mason (Overland Park, Kan./Bishop Miege HS) and freshman Trinity Hall (Kansas City, Kan./Wyandotte HS).
STAFF RETURNS INTACT
The UMKC coaching staff will look familiar this season, as all three assistant coaches, as well as the Director of Basketball Operations return to help guide the team.
Martin Unger is in his fourth season as an assistant coach with the UMKC men's basketball program after serving with Coach Brown on the coaching staff at the University of Richmond from 1997-2001.
Wendell Moore is entering his third season as an assistant coach with the UMKC men's basketball program. Prior to joining the 'Roos, Moore served as an assistant coach under Rex Walters at Florida Atlantic University from 2006-08.
Stephen Brough is entering his second season as an assistant coach with the UMKC men's basketball program. Brough joined the 'Roos after serving as the Director of Basketball Operations at Baylor University from 2003-09.
Doug Hall is entering his second season as the Director of Basketball Operations with the UMKC men's basketball program. Hall joined the Kangaroos in June 2009 after serving as the head basketball coach at Southwestern College in Winfield, Kan., from 2001-09.
Ruben Reyna is entering his first season as a graduate assistant coach with the UMKC men's basketball program, as he was named to the post in July 2010. Reyna previously served as a manager with the 'Roos for the 2008-09 and 2009-10 seasons.
COMING FROM CAMEROON
Cameroon native Bernard Kamwa enters his first season in the Blue and Gold after spending his sophomore year at the College of the Sequoia in California. As a freshman, Kamwa was a member of the Cowley County Community College roster, helping the Tigers to a 29-5 record overall. As a prep, the 6-8 forward/center spent time in both Mississippi and California. Kamwa joins Max Rockmann as the only two foreign born players on the UMKC roster.
FRESH FACES ON THE ROSTER
This year's line-up will feature five new 'Roos, made-up of two juniors, one sophomore and a freshman. Junior Reggie Chamberlain will make his UMKC debut after sitting out last season due to transfer rules, while classmate Bernard Kamwa is also new to the squad. Trinity Hall represents the only freshman on this year's team, while sophomore Nate Rogers will redshirt this season after transferring from DePaul.
NEW TV HOME
UMKC basketball will have a new television home during the 2010-11 season, as KSMO will serve as the television home of the 'Roos. A total of nine UMKC home basketball games will be televised in Kansas City during the upcoming 2010-11 season, including games against Southeast Missouri State (Nov. 20), Utah Valley (Dec. 8), Southern Utah (Jan. 8-DH), IUPUI (Jan. 20), Western Illinois (Jan. 22-DH), Oral Roberts (Feb. 10), Centenary (Feb. 12-DH), Oakland (Feb. 24) and IPFW (Feb. 26). Road contest at Kansas State on Dec. 23 (Fox Sports KC), Kansas on Jan. 5 (Jayhawk TV) and Oral Roberts on Jan. 15 (Fox College Sports), meanwhile, will also be televised.
ROGERS TO SIT OUT DUE TO NCAA RULES
Former DePaul player and Maywood, Ill., native Nate Rogers transferred to UMKC in the offseason. The 6-1 guard, who averaged 2.5 points per game for the Blue Demons, will have to sit out the 2010-11 season due to NCAA Division I transfer regulations.
COUISNARD EARNS POST SEASON RECOGNITION
Junior Jay Couisnard was named to The Summit League all-Newcomer and Honorable Mention all-League teams after leading the 'Roos and ranking ninth in the league with a 14.0 scoring average in 2009-10. The forward was the second straight UMKC student-athlete to earn honorable mention all-league honors, as Dane Brumagin received the accolade at the conclusion of the 2008-09 season. He was also the ninth 'Roo to be selected to the all-newcomer squad and the second honoree in the Matt Brown era (Reggie Hamilton - 2007-08).
OLD SWINNEY NEW AGAIN
The renovation transformed the Old Swinney Gymnasium into a modern, collegiate practice facility that provides outstanding training opportunities for 'Roo student-athletes The $500,000 renovation plan included new basketball/volleyball court flooring and basketball standards and volleyball nets to be installed in the existing facility. The skylights in the building were altered, allowing for modified lighting to be put into place. The entire Old Swinney interior was updated and scoreboards were installed.
VOICES OF THE 'ROOS
Steven Davis is entering his third season as the radio voice of UMKC men's basketball program and will be joined by third-year color commentator Steven St. John of 810 AM WHB's "The Border Patrol", as well as Nick McCabe.
Neil Harwell is entering his 16th season as the TV play-by-play voice of the Kangaroos. Harwell began calling UMKC games during the 1995-96 season and will call all the games broadcast on KCMO.
ROBINSON TO THE HALL
Former men's basketball student-athlete David Robinson was announced as a member of the 2010 Hall of Fame class to be inducted on Jan. 22. Robinson, who was the first four-year letterwinner in the Division I era, posted 20 20-point games and three 30-point contests during his 'Roo career. The seven footer, who led UMKC to wins over the likes of Cincinnati, Creighton and Texas A&M during his playing career, is the school record holder in career field goal percentage (.584), while ranking second in blocks (126) and third in double-doubles (11). Robinson joins former UMKC basketball players Bill Frerking, Ronnie Schmitz and Michael Jackson, as well as former 'Roos coaches Lee Hunt and Bill Ross in the UMKC Hall of Fame.
2009-10 'ROO TIDBITS
'ROOS IN THE CLASSROOM
Last season, five 'Roos were named to The Summit League Academic all-Conference team, including current 'Roos Dustin Dibble, Kirk Korver and Bakari Lewis. In order to be named to academic all-League team, each student-athlete must post a GPA of 3.0 or higher in the semester in which they compete. Additionally, Dibble was named a Distinguished Scholar for posting a GPA above 3.6.
Meanwhile, one current player and three total were named to the Commissioner's List of Academic Excellence, including Dibble, for posting a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better.
UMKC TOP WIN TOTALS - DIVISION I HISTORY
20 wins (once) - 1991-92 (later changed to 21 wins due to NCAA violation by UTPA)
18 wins (once) - 2001-02
16 wins (twice) - 1999-00, 2004-05
15 wins (three times) - 1990-91, 1992-93, 2003-04
14 wins (twice) - 2000-01, 2005-06
13 wins (once) - 1989-90
12 wins (four times) - 1993-94, 1995-96, 2006-07, 2009-10
BATTLING FOR BOARDS
Senior Spencer Johnson paced the squad on the glass for the second straight year, pulling down a team-high 5.8 boards per game. With his efforts, the Champaign, Ill. native led the squad on the glass for the second consecutive season, becoming the first player since Jimmy Keller (1997-99) to do so. This season, Johnson again leads the squad by nearly four rebounds a game.
BK TO THE RESCUE
Senior Bakari Lewis developed a knack for taking and making the big shot, as the guard connected for the game-winner twice last season. On Jan. 2, Lewis drained a three-pointer from the top of the key with 17 seconds remaining to lift the 'Roos to the 53-50 win over Southern Utah.
The Cleveland, Ohio, native had his first late game heroics in the 84-83 road victory at Centenary on Dec. 5 when he scored 10 of his team-high 18 points over the final four minutes of the contest. This included seven straight points over the final 52 seconds, which included the game-winner with 3.3 seconds remaining to lead the 'Roos back from a 10-point deficit for the victory.
RAINING THREES
UMKC has made at least one three-point basket in 317 consecutive regular season or tournament games dating back to Jan. 22, 2000.
IT'S A FAMILY THING
UMKC sophomore Kirk Korver is the fourth son of Kevin and Laine Korver to suit up the sneakers to play Division I basketball. Oldest brother Kyle was an all-America selection at Creighton, where he played from 1999-2003, and is currently a member of the NBA's Chicago Bulls. Klayton played at Drake from 2003-08, where he was one of the most prolific three-point shooters in school history, and Kaleb is currently a senior on the Creighton basketball team. Basketball is in the blood for the Korver family as mother, Laine, once scored 73 points in a single game in high school.
FOLLOW UMKC VIA ROO VISION
Fans can follow the UMKC men's basketball team as all home games are streamed live online via ROO Vision at UMKCKangaroos.com. Live statistics are also available at the web site under the Multimedia tab or on the men's basketball schedule page.
The UMKC men's basketball team (7-4, 0-2) will hit the road when it travels to Manhattan, Kan., to take on No. 11 Kansas State (9-3) on Dec. 23. The game between the 'Roos and the Wildcats is set for a 7:05 p.m. tip-off at Bramlage Coliseum.
ON THE AIR
Radio: 1140/1160 AM (Steven Davis - p-b-p, Steven St. John - color)
TV: Fox Sports Kansas City
Listen Online: 1510.com
Twitter: TheUMKCRoos
LAST TIME OUT
The 'Roos picked up their sixth straight home win to open the season after defeating Houston Baptist, 73-51, on Tuesday night at the Swinney Recreation Center. The 'Roos scored 28 points off 21 Huskie turnovers, while out-scoring them 26-16 in the paint.
Junior Reggie Chamberlain led the UMKC scoring attack, registering a career-high 23 points on 9-of-12 shooting, including 5-of-8 from three-point range, while also dishing out four assists. Senior Jay Couisnard, meanwhile, chipped in 14 points, along with six rebounds, six assists, two steals and a block. Fellow senior Spencer Johnson finished with 13 points and nine rebounds, while Bakari Lewis added 15 points and four assists.
For the third straight home game, the 'Roos buried 10 or more threes, knocking down 12-of 31 on the night, while out-scoring the Huskies 12-7 on second chance points and 16-2 on fast break points.
SCOUTING KANSAS STATE
Kansas State enters Thursday night's contest as the No. 11 ranked team in the country with a 9-3 record overall. The Wildcats have lost consecutive games to Florida and UNLV, while seniors Jacob Pullen (16.5 points per game, 3.8 assists per game, 3.7 rebounds per game, 1.9 steals per game) and Curits Kelly (10.3 points per game, 4.0 rebounds per game) will miss their second straight games while serving an NCAA suspension. Sophomore Rodney McGruder will be Kansas State's top scorer in the game, as the guard is netting 10.3 points per game along with 6.8 rebounds per game, while junior Jamar Samuels is averaging 9.0 points and 6.5 rebounds per game.
THE SERIES
Kansas State leads the all-time series between the two schools, 14-1, with the 'Roos picking up their only win in the series in the last meeting in 2003, 93-52. The 41 point win is the seventh largest margin of victory in school history. In that game, the Kangaroos placed six players in double figures and was the first UMKC win against a Big 12 Conference opponent since Dec. 8, 2000, when the Kangaroos handed Nebraska an 82-7 defeat at Lincoln. It also was the school's 200th victory at the NCAA Division I level.
Junior forward MIke English and senior guard Michael Watson tied for game-high honors with 18 points each. Sophomore forward Brandon Lipsey added 14 points, while senior guard Javon Clark contributed 11 points. Sophomore center Carlton Aaron and junior guard Brandon Temple each scored 10 points.
UMKC shot 48.2 percent (27-56) from the field for the game, and converted 32 of 39 free throw attempts for an 82. percentage. Kansas State was 20-56 from the field (35.7 percent) and 2-for-5 (3.3 percent) from three-point range. The 'Roos outrebounded KSU, 38-32, led by Lipsey, English and Watson with seven boards apiece.
THE COACHES
UMKC head coach Matt Brown is in his fourth season with the UMKC men's basketball program, where he has compiled an 33-67 overall record and has coached four players to all-Summit League recognition. Former forward Dane Brumagin was a second team all-league honoree and Reggie Hamilton was an all-newcomer team selection in 2007-08, before Brumagin and Jay Couisnard were honorable mention all-league honorees in 2008-09 and 2009-10, respectively. Couisnard was also chosen to The Summit League all-Newcomer team.
Frank Martin has become one of the nation's hottest young coaches after guiding K-State to one of its greatest seasons ever in 2009-10.
In just his third season at the helm, Martin led the Wildcats to within one game of the Final Four and the school's first Top 10 final ranking since 1973 en route to breaking numerous team and individual school records. In the process, the team posted a school-record 29 wins and a Big 12 era high 11 victories and defeated 12 teams that advanced to the postseason, including eight in the NCAA Tournament. For his efforts, Martin was a near unanimous selection for Big 12 Conference Coach the Year and a candidate for numerous National Coach of the Year awards.
FEELING RIGHT AT HOME
With its 73-51 win over Houston Baptist on Dec. 21, the UMKC men's basketball team improved its home record to 6-0 on the season, topping the 4-0 mark by the 2001-02 squad for the best start at home since the team moved to Division I. In games at the SRC this season, the 'Roos are out-scoring their opponents 72.5-60.0, while collecting 6.3 more rebounds per contest.
STEPPING UP
With leading scorer Jay Couisnard in foul trouble and second leading scorer Spencer Johnson being held scoreless, the 'Roos needed a few other guys to step up. Trinity Hall, Michael Gholston, Jr., and Bernard Kamwa did just that. Each of the three players recorded their career-highs in points (Hall-18, Gholston, Jr.-11, Kamwa-11), combining for 40 points, 11 rebounds, three assists, two steals, and five three-pointers.
MARKSMEN FROM THE LINE
A trio of 'Roos are shooting better than 75 percent from the free throw line this season. Junior Reggie Chamberlain leads the way at 80.8 percent (21-26), while Senior Bakari Lewis and Freshman Trinity Hall are close behind at 80 percent (24-30) and 75.8 percent (25-33), respectively. As of the beginning of the week, all threer anked in the top-six of the Summit League, with Hall sitting third, Chamberlain fourth and Lewis tied for sixth.
UNDEFEATED WHEN...
Several scenarios have resulted in perfect records for the 'Roos, including: Finishing with a high FG% than the opponent (7-0), playing at home (6-0), shooting more free throws (4-0), scoring 60-69 points (4-0), holding the opponent to 60-69 points (4-0), finishing with less turnovers (4-0), shooting at least 40 percent on threes (2-0), wearing white uniforms (3-0), registering more assists (3-0), playing on KSMO (2-0), playing on Wednesday (2-0), playing on Tuesday (2-0) and playing on Friday (1-0).
BOMBS AWAY
In the past two home games, against Utah Valley and North Dakota, the 'Roos have hit 10 threes apiece. Leading the three-point barrage against UVU were seniors Jay Couisnard and Spencer Johnson. Johnson finished with a career-high tying four three-pointers on seven attempts, while Couisnard also tied his career-high with three three balls on a career-high seven attempts. Against UND, Trinity Hall buried a career-high three, three-pointers, while Couisnard, Bakari Lewis and Michael Gholston, Jr., nailed two.
3-0 AGAINST THE GREAT WEST
With the 73-51 win over Houston Baptist, the 'Roos finished the season with a 3-0 record against teams from the Great West Conference. In the three games, UMKC is out-scoring Utah Valley, North Dakota and Houston Baptist a combined 70.7-58.3, while out-shooting them from three-point range 42.1 percent to 34.7 precent.
DIME MEN
For the third consecutive home game, the 'Roos finished with 14 or more assists, registering a season-high 17 in the win over Houston Baptist. Over that stretch, the sqaud has amassed 46 total dimes, led by Bakari Lewis' 12 and Reggie Chamberlain's nine.
100 CAREER GAMES
When he took the court against Idaho State, senior Spencer Johnson competed in his 100th game as a 'Roo. In his four years, the forward is averaging 7.5 points per game and 5.2 rebounds per game. His 762 career points rank 13th all-time in school history, while his 529 rebounds are sixth best. His 14 double-doubles, meanwhile, are the third most in UMKC history and his 15 double-digit rebound performances rank third as well.
SUMMIT LEAGUE LEADERS
Senior Spencer Johnson's 9.3 rebounds per game currently place him second in the Summit League in rebounding, behind only Summit League Preseason Player of the Year Keith Benson, while his 10.8 points per game rank 28th, his 53.9 percent from the field ranks fourth and his 42.4 percent on three-pointers is ninth best. Jay Couisnard (15.7 ppg), meanwhile, ranks seventh in the league in scoring, ninth in blocks (0.9 bpg) and tied for 13th in steals (1.1 spg), while Reggie Chamberlain is fourth in steals (1.6 spg) and Bakari Lewis is eighth in assists (2.7 apg).
WELCOME BACK REGGIE
Junior Reggie Chamberlain faced a familiar foe on Monday night when the 6-0 guard dropped a career-high 20 points on his former team, Wichita State. Chamberlain, in his first season as a 'Roo, nailed 4-of-9 three pointers against the team he played for during the 2008-09 season.
CAREER NIGHTS
In the Nov. 24 game against SIU Edwardsville, two 'Roo seniors had career nights, highlighted by senior Jay Couisnard. Couisnard posted a new career-high of 26 points, while Spencer Johnson collected 14 rebounds to tie his then career-high and is averaging 10.0 rebounds per game for the season, the second best mark in The Summit League.
MICROWAVE LEWIS
In the Nov. 20 game against Southeast Missouri State, senior guard Bakari Lewis did his best Vinnie "Microwave" Johnson impression, scoring nine points, on 3-3 shooting from three-point range, in a 1:15 stretch off the bench in the first half. Lewis nailed his first three with the 'Roos down 11-5 and his second down 13-8, while his third gave the 'Roos their first lead of the game at 14-13.
CLUTCH DOWN THE STRETCH
Junior Reggie Chamberlain came up huge for the 'Roos down the stretch in the Nov. 16 game with Central Arkansas. In just his second game as a 'Roo, Chamberlain scored eight points in the final 1:42 to help UMKC to the victory. Among his eight points were a pair of three pointers that each gave the 'Roos the lead in the contest.
SUCCESSFUL DEBUTS
Three 'Roos made their debuts in the Blue & Gold against Truman State on Nov. 12, and the results were all positive. Freshman Trinity Hall finished second on the team in both points (10) and rebounds (six), while junior transfer Reggie Chamberlain started and recorded six points, three assists and two rebounds. Junior Bernard Kamwa, meanwhile, started at center for the 'Roos and pulled down five boards and chipped in two points on a dunk.
FRESH OFF THE SIGNING BLOCK
On Wednesday, UMKC Head Coach Matt Brown announced that Estan Tyler has signed a National Letter of Intent to continue his education and playing career with the UMKC men's basketball program starting with the 2011-12 season. The 6-1, 175-lb. guard joins the 'Roos out of St. Paul Johnson where he was ranked as the top point guard in Minnesota's senior class of 2011 by MinnesotaPrep.com. As a junior, Tyler led St. Paul Johnson to a perfect 32-0 record and the state championship, while leading the Governors in scoring (14 ppg), assists (4.1 apg) and free throw percentage (78.9). Tyler is the first player to join the 'Roos' 2011 recruiting class, as well as the first player to sign in the early signing period and the first to sign from Minnesota during Brown's tenure as head coach of the squad.
COUISNARD NAMED SUMMIT LEAGUE PLAYER OF THE WEEK
UMKC senior forward Jay Couisnard was named The Summit League Player of the Week on Nov. 22. The Houston, Texas, native earned the honor after averaging 18.5 points per game and 4.0 rebounds per game, along with five blocks and four steals in wins over Central Arkansas and Southeast Missouri State.
LAST SEASON
The UMKC men's basketball team made strides forward during the 2009-10 season, as the squad posted a 12-20 record, which were the most victories for the program during the Matt Brown era. The 'Roos also returned to the post season for the 14th time in school history, playing in The Summit League Championship in Sioux Falls as the No. 8 seed. Junior Jay Couisnard was named to The Summit League all-Newcomer and Honorable Mention all-Summit League squads after pacing the squad with 14.0 points per game, while fellow junior Spencer Johnson led the squad on the boards for the second straight season, finishing with 175 rebounds (5.8 rpg.) in 30 games. The Illinois native was the first player since Jimmy Keller (1997-99) to pace the team on the glass in consecutive seasons. Johnson now has 427 career rebounds, which rank seventh in school history. Kirk Korver, meanwhile, placed his name in the UMKC freshmen records, finishing fourth in three-point field goal percentage (.386 (27-70)), ninth in three-point field goals (27), tied for ninth in three-point attempts (70) and 10th in field goal percentage (.413 (45-109)).
SWINNEY GETS A FACE LIFT
The new home of the 'Roos, the Swinney Recreation Center, underwent a major face lift this off-season in time for the 2010-11 season. New chairback-style seating was installed, giving all fans a comfortable environment with a defined seat - no more general admission, and no more bleachers without backs. Parking on campus will continue to be free. All season ticket holders will receive a special pass for the parking lot on the east side of Swinney (bordered by Rockhill Road) and a golf-cart shuttle will run between the parking lots and Swinney to assist any fans in need. Lastly, a new and improved concessions stand will feature an improved selection along with additional staffing.
BACK HOME IN THE HEART OF CAMPUS
The UMKC men's basketball team is making a move back to campus, as 14 of the 15 home games will be played at the newly renovated Swinney Recreation Center. In past seasons, the 'Roos have played their home games at Municipal Auditorium, where they posted a 152-108 record and Kemper Arena, where they posted a 15-15 mark. This season however, only the Jan. 8 contest with Southern Utah will take place at Municipal, while all other games will be held in the heart of campus at the Swinney Recreation Center. The 'Roos posted a 3-3 mark at the SRC last season.
SENIOR CAPTAINS
The three 'Roo seniors, Jay Couisnard, Spencer Johnson and Bakari Lewis, will serve as tri-captains on this season's squad. Last season, the trio combined 30.8 ppg and 13.2 rpg and are the top-three leading scores returning to the 2010-11 team. Couisnard and Johnson return for their second season as captains, while Lewis will be entering his first season as captain.
2010-11 SUMMIT LEAGUE PRESEASON POLL
The UMKC men's basketball team has been picked eighth, tallying 177 points, in The Summit League Preseason Poll, which was voted on by the league coaches, SIDs and media. Defending regular season and tournament champion Oakland garnered 29-of-34 first-place votes and was tabbed as the favorite to win the 2010-11 Summit League Men's Basketball Championship. Oral Roberts was chosen second, followed by IUPUI, NDSU, SDSU, IPFW, Western Illinois, UMKC, Southern Utah and Centenary.
COUISNARD NAMED PRESEASON SECOND TEAM ALL-LEAGUE
Senior Jay Couisnard was selected as a preseason second team all-league honoree by a vote of the league's coaches, SIDs and media. Couisnard joins Eric Carlson (NDSU), Leroy Nobles (IUPUI), Clint Sargent (SDSU) and Larry Wright (Oakland) on the second team, while Preseason Player of the Year selection Keith Benson (Oakland) leads the first team that features Ceola Clark (WIU), Michael Craion and Dominique Morrison (ORU), Michael Tveidt (NDSU) and Alex Young (IUPUI).
DEPTH IN THE BACKCOURT
The Kangaroos will look to senior Bakari Lewis to guide the guard position in 2010-11, as he is one of three returnees to the backcourt. Juniors Michael Gholston, Jr. and Dustin Dibble also return in the backcourt to go along with redshirt junior Reggie Chamberlain and walk-on Trevor Mason.
SCORING FROM THE WINGS
The 'Roos will return the most experience on its roster at the forward position where seniors Jay Couisnard and Spencer Johnson return to the fold. UMKC will also benefit from having sophomore Max Rockmann at its disposal for the entire season, while also welcoming talented freshman Trinity Hall.
SIZE UP FRONT
For the first time in Coach Brown's tenure, the Kangaroos will have depth and experience in the post position heading into the season. UMKC returns two sophomores - Kirk
Korver and Fred Chatmon - to go along with junior college transfer Bernard Kamwa to give the team a wide array of options at the five position.
KC METRO 'ROOS
The 2010-11 roster will feature five players from the Kansas City metro area, including Kansas City, Mo., native and first-year 'Roo Reggie Chamberlain (Kansas City, Mo./Raytown HS). Joining Chamberlain on the squad are juniors Michael Gholston, Jr. (Raytown, Mo./Raytown South HS) and Trevor Mason (Overland Park, Kan./Bishop Miege HS) and freshman Trinity Hall (Kansas City, Kan./Wyandotte HS).
STAFF RETURNS INTACT
The UMKC coaching staff will look familiar this season, as all three assistant coaches, as well as the Director of Basketball Operations return to help guide the team.
Martin Unger is in his fourth season as an assistant coach with the UMKC men's basketball program after serving with Coach Brown on the coaching staff at the University of Richmond from 1997-2001.
Wendell Moore is entering his third season as an assistant coach with the UMKC men's basketball program. Prior to joining the 'Roos, Moore served as an assistant coach under Rex Walters at Florida Atlantic University from 2006-08.
Stephen Brough is entering his second season as an assistant coach with the UMKC men's basketball program. Brough joined the 'Roos after serving as the Director of Basketball Operations at Baylor University from 2003-09.
Doug Hall is entering his second season as the Director of Basketball Operations with the UMKC men's basketball program. Hall joined the Kangaroos in June 2009 after serving as the head basketball coach at Southwestern College in Winfield, Kan., from 2001-09.
Ruben Reyna is entering his first season as a graduate assistant coach with the UMKC men's basketball program, as he was named to the post in July 2010. Reyna previously served as a manager with the 'Roos for the 2008-09 and 2009-10 seasons.
COMING FROM CAMEROON
Cameroon native Bernard Kamwa enters his first season in the Blue and Gold after spending his sophomore year at the College of the Sequoia in California. As a freshman, Kamwa was a member of the Cowley County Community College roster, helping the Tigers to a 29-5 record overall. As a prep, the 6-8 forward/center spent time in both Mississippi and California. Kamwa joins Max Rockmann as the only two foreign born players on the UMKC roster.
FRESH FACES ON THE ROSTER
This year's line-up will feature five new 'Roos, made-up of two juniors, one sophomore and a freshman. Junior Reggie Chamberlain will make his UMKC debut after sitting out last season due to transfer rules, while classmate Bernard Kamwa is also new to the squad. Trinity Hall represents the only freshman on this year's team, while sophomore Nate Rogers will redshirt this season after transferring from DePaul.
NEW TV HOME
UMKC basketball will have a new television home during the 2010-11 season, as KSMO will serve as the television home of the 'Roos. A total of nine UMKC home basketball games will be televised in Kansas City during the upcoming 2010-11 season, including games against Southeast Missouri State (Nov. 20), Utah Valley (Dec. 8), Southern Utah (Jan. 8-DH), IUPUI (Jan. 20), Western Illinois (Jan. 22-DH), Oral Roberts (Feb. 10), Centenary (Feb. 12-DH), Oakland (Feb. 24) and IPFW (Feb. 26). Road contest at Kansas State on Dec. 23 (Fox Sports KC), Kansas on Jan. 5 (Jayhawk TV) and Oral Roberts on Jan. 15 (Fox College Sports), meanwhile, will also be televised.
ROGERS TO SIT OUT DUE TO NCAA RULES
Former DePaul player and Maywood, Ill., native Nate Rogers transferred to UMKC in the offseason. The 6-1 guard, who averaged 2.5 points per game for the Blue Demons, will have to sit out the 2010-11 season due to NCAA Division I transfer regulations.
COUISNARD EARNS POST SEASON RECOGNITION
Junior Jay Couisnard was named to The Summit League all-Newcomer and Honorable Mention all-League teams after leading the 'Roos and ranking ninth in the league with a 14.0 scoring average in 2009-10. The forward was the second straight UMKC student-athlete to earn honorable mention all-league honors, as Dane Brumagin received the accolade at the conclusion of the 2008-09 season. He was also the ninth 'Roo to be selected to the all-newcomer squad and the second honoree in the Matt Brown era (Reggie Hamilton - 2007-08).
OLD SWINNEY NEW AGAIN
The renovation transformed the Old Swinney Gymnasium into a modern, collegiate practice facility that provides outstanding training opportunities for 'Roo student-athletes The $500,000 renovation plan included new basketball/volleyball court flooring and basketball standards and volleyball nets to be installed in the existing facility. The skylights in the building were altered, allowing for modified lighting to be put into place. The entire Old Swinney interior was updated and scoreboards were installed.
VOICES OF THE 'ROOS
Steven Davis is entering his third season as the radio voice of UMKC men's basketball program and will be joined by third-year color commentator Steven St. John of 810 AM WHB's "The Border Patrol", as well as Nick McCabe.
Neil Harwell is entering his 16th season as the TV play-by-play voice of the Kangaroos. Harwell began calling UMKC games during the 1995-96 season and will call all the games broadcast on KCMO.
ROBINSON TO THE HALL
Former men's basketball student-athlete David Robinson was announced as a member of the 2010 Hall of Fame class to be inducted on Jan. 22. Robinson, who was the first four-year letterwinner in the Division I era, posted 20 20-point games and three 30-point contests during his 'Roo career. The seven footer, who led UMKC to wins over the likes of Cincinnati, Creighton and Texas A&M during his playing career, is the school record holder in career field goal percentage (.584), while ranking second in blocks (126) and third in double-doubles (11). Robinson joins former UMKC basketball players Bill Frerking, Ronnie Schmitz and Michael Jackson, as well as former 'Roos coaches Lee Hunt and Bill Ross in the UMKC Hall of Fame.
2009-10 'ROO TIDBITS
- Reggie Chamberlain's 23 points against Houston Baptist, five assists against UCA and four steals at Oakland were new career-highs.
- Jay Cousinard's 181 free throw attempts last season rank sixth all-time at UMKC.
- Jay Cousinard's four blocks against SEMO were a new career-high, while his 26 points against SIU Edwardsville were a new career-high.
- Jay Couisnard's junior class ranks include seventh in scoring (420), second in made free throws (130), third in free throws attempted (181), sixth in field goals attempted (333).
- Spencer Johnson's junior class ranks include tied for the third most starts (29) and his 175 rebounds rank eighth.
- Spencer Johnson's 15 double figure rebound games are third best all-time at UMKC.
- Senior Spencer Johnson moved into sixth place in school history in career rebounding with his 13 board outing vs. Oakland and now has a total of 529 caroms. The forward also ranks 13th in career scoring with 762 points.
- Bakari Lewis ranks tied for 30th with 565 career points, while Jay Couisnard is 28th with 591.
- Sophomore Kirk Korver made two or more three pointers in nine games on the season and tied for third on the squad with 26 long balls. The total is the ninth most by a freshman in school history. His .386 three-point percentage, meanwhile, was the fourth best mark by a freshman in the annals.
- In wins, UMKC is averaging 72.6 points on .457 shooting from the floor and .387 from long range. The squad is also out-rebounding its opponents by 5.3 caroms per game. The opposition, meanwhile, is shooting .411 from the field, .342 from distance and is averaging 14.6 turnovers per game.
- In losses, the 'Roos are averaging 60.8 points with a .382 field goal percentage and a .284 mark from three-point land. The opposition, meanwhile, is shooting .538 from the floor, .358 from long range and is out-rebounding UMKC by 2.5 caroms per game.
'ROOS IN THE CLASSROOM
Last season, five 'Roos were named to The Summit League Academic all-Conference team, including current 'Roos Dustin Dibble, Kirk Korver and Bakari Lewis. In order to be named to academic all-League team, each student-athlete must post a GPA of 3.0 or higher in the semester in which they compete. Additionally, Dibble was named a Distinguished Scholar for posting a GPA above 3.6.
Meanwhile, one current player and three total were named to the Commissioner's List of Academic Excellence, including Dibble, for posting a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better.
UMKC TOP WIN TOTALS - DIVISION I HISTORY
20 wins (once) - 1991-92 (later changed to 21 wins due to NCAA violation by UTPA)
18 wins (once) - 2001-02
16 wins (twice) - 1999-00, 2004-05
15 wins (three times) - 1990-91, 1992-93, 2003-04
14 wins (twice) - 2000-01, 2005-06
13 wins (once) - 1989-90
12 wins (four times) - 1993-94, 1995-96, 2006-07, 2009-10
BATTLING FOR BOARDS
Senior Spencer Johnson paced the squad on the glass for the second straight year, pulling down a team-high 5.8 boards per game. With his efforts, the Champaign, Ill. native led the squad on the glass for the second consecutive season, becoming the first player since Jimmy Keller (1997-99) to do so. This season, Johnson again leads the squad by nearly four rebounds a game.
BK TO THE RESCUE
Senior Bakari Lewis developed a knack for taking and making the big shot, as the guard connected for the game-winner twice last season. On Jan. 2, Lewis drained a three-pointer from the top of the key with 17 seconds remaining to lift the 'Roos to the 53-50 win over Southern Utah.
The Cleveland, Ohio, native had his first late game heroics in the 84-83 road victory at Centenary on Dec. 5 when he scored 10 of his team-high 18 points over the final four minutes of the contest. This included seven straight points over the final 52 seconds, which included the game-winner with 3.3 seconds remaining to lead the 'Roos back from a 10-point deficit for the victory.
RAINING THREES
UMKC has made at least one three-point basket in 317 consecutive regular season or tournament games dating back to Jan. 22, 2000.
IT'S A FAMILY THING
UMKC sophomore Kirk Korver is the fourth son of Kevin and Laine Korver to suit up the sneakers to play Division I basketball. Oldest brother Kyle was an all-America selection at Creighton, where he played from 1999-2003, and is currently a member of the NBA's Chicago Bulls. Klayton played at Drake from 2003-08, where he was one of the most prolific three-point shooters in school history, and Kaleb is currently a senior on the Creighton basketball team. Basketball is in the blood for the Korver family as mother, Laine, once scored 73 points in a single game in high school.
FOLLOW UMKC VIA ROO VISION
Fans can follow the UMKC men's basketball team as all home games are streamed live online via ROO Vision at UMKCKangaroos.com. Live statistics are also available at the web site under the Multimedia tab or on the men's basketball schedule page.
Players Mentioned
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