Big Ten Men’s Tournament begins at Conseco Fieldhouse

Conseco Fieldhouse is all too familiar for me. After working here four days last week, I embark on another four straight days and five of six (counting Pacers-Sixers on Tuesday).

With the men in town, it’s a completely differently tournament with a thrilling feel. Three networks will split the broadcasting duties for the four days: the Big Ten Network, ESPN and CBS.

There are a lot more fans, a full contingent of media on hand—and it’s just the first round.

No. 8 Northwestern vs. No. 9 Minnesota

The first game wasn’t too memorable or exciting, with the exception of Northwestern’s Michael Thompson. The Wildcats prevailed in the first game on Thursday 76-65 over the Golden Gophers. Thompson led all scorers with 35 points, topping Brian Cardinal of Purdue’s all-time record off 33.

Minnesota trailed by two at halftime but it  wouldn’t get any closer. Northwestern took control in the second half, using a 13-1 run mid-way through the half.

This may have been the least anticipated game in the tournament as well. Not much intrigue or excitement come from those two teams.

Northwestern has a big challenge tomorrow, earning the right to play the tournament’s top-seed in Ohio State.

The crowd wasn’t particularly strong for this game, but keep in mind it tipped-off midafternoon. My estimate: 12,500.

No. 7 Michigan State vs. No. 10 Iowa

Never count out Tom Izzo and the Michigan State Spartans out too early in the postseason. Despite a disappointing regular season, the 18-13 Spartans showed up for their early-evening battle against Iowa. The Spartans were victorious 66-61 earning a date with Purdue Friday late-afternoon.

I’ve been an Izzo fan since I can remember. He is clean, well-respected, runs a strong program, and gets the job done on the court. Izzo has a unique statistic he can offer up for future players. Thus far, any player that has played for him at MSU, has played in a Final Four. Wow. Talk about a recruiting advantage and that doesn’t include a tremendous school, basketball priority and successful teams.

Although about 15 pounds overweight, Draymond Green is a flat-out stud for Sparty. He’s big inside, snatches down rebounds and can hit the open shot.

One thing I kept my eye on the whole game was Ted Valentine. All Big Ten fans understand why he is not well liked in the Hoosier state.

The crowd was much improved due to Michigan State’s strong following. Roughly 15,000 were on hand to see this nail-biter.

Looking ahead to the Indiana-Penn State game later tonight, things could get interesting with officials Ed Hightower, Terry Wymer and Steve McJunkins.

Big Stage. Big Life. Big Ten.

I will have a lot more tomorrow from the tournament, contrasting the setup for the men’s and women’s tournament, media attention and look of the city.