Monday, July 6, 2020

Hope or March Sadness?

EXPERTS WEIGH IN ON OSU BASKETBALL’S APPEAL TO THE NCAA

ALSO INSIDE: - STILLWATER COVID-19 UPDATE

- MAtthew-Alexander Montcrieffe analysis

COVID-19 NUMBERS AS OF SUNDAY JULY 5 2020

MONDAY, JULY 6, 2020

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C OV E R S T O RY

O S U Bas k e t ba l l

2020 Cowboys basketball: Hope or ‘March Sadness?’

Sam Hutche n s , Staff reporter, @ O colly

When a tornado rips through an Oklahoma town, it is quite the occurrence. The storms, often springing out of nowhere, leave the entire town in a flurry. News vans rush to survey the damage, and residents gather outside their homes to see if their fences are intact and where their trampoline may have landed.

Soon though, the exciting, turbulent and damaging incident is in the rearview mirror. Attention and outrage fade, and all that is left is for the residents to quietly rebuild their lives.

So it goes for Mike Holder, Mike Boynton and the Oklahoma State University men’s basketball team, not victims of any tornado, but turbulent activity just the same.

On June 5, the program was hit with crippling NCAA sanctions in connection with the 2017 investigation of former assistant coach Lamont Evans. Many have called the penalties, which include a 2020 postseason ban, harsh and unjustified.

While the NCAA’s ruling has been chastised by media members like Jay Bilas and Dick Vitale for being unfair and ineffective, the ruling is essentially set in stone.

Essentially.

In the middle of an OSU official statement on the sanctions, putting the NCAA ruling on blast, one phrase gives Cowboy fans hope of still seeing their team in the NCAA tournament.

MONDAY, JULY 6, 2020

were announced, the OSU

if Mike Boynton’s team

University Department of Ath-

“The Oklahoma State

department of athletics said,

regains hope for playing in the

letics will file an immediate

“The University is stunned by

postseason.

appeal of the NCAA penalties

the severity of the penalties

That is a process that usu-

assessed to the men’s basket-

and strongly disagrees with

ally happens in Indianapolis,

ball program on Friday.”

them. The penalties do not

where the NCAA has its

align with the facts and are

headquarters, OSU’s appeal

unfair and unjust.”

may look different due to the

The appeal offers hope, yet what chance of a successful appeal does OSU actually have? Will the talented OSU basketball team headlined by loyal No. 1 national recruit Cade Cunningham be barred from playing in all postseason basketball?

Historically speaking, OSU’s chances are grim.

It is rare for the NCAA to lighten its punishments upon appeal. Since 2013, when the NCAA revamped its penalty structure against schools in hopes of standardizing punishments, few appeals have been overturned. According to a list of cases on the NCAA’s website, 10 out of the last 11 penalties handed down by the NCAA Division I Infractions Appeals Committee were upheld in entirety.

Mike Glazier, a sports appeal lawyer who has defended basketball programs like North Carolina, Kansas and Louisville, believes the appeal process has gotten more difficult in recent years.

“Whereas before the standard may not have been quite as high,” Glazier told the O’Colly. “(It is now) a very high burden that the university has to meet in order to be successful.”

A 91% clip of denied appeals seems to be an accurate indication of the success of NCAA appeal cases, whether Ole Miss track violations or

The OSU basketball appeal is a large question mark for the Cowboys this year.

Adam Luther/ OCOLLY

Louisville or UConn men’s

than the Level I allegation

basketball charges

applied to the case. Accord-

According to an article

ing to pages 359-360 of the

from the Atlanta Journal-Con-

NCAA Division I manual, a

stitution, often the most ef-

Level I violation consists of

fective argument in an appeal

a “severe breach of conduct”

process is a technical one, not

whereas a Level II violation is

an argument merely arguing

only a “significant breach of

the unqualified harshness of

conduct.” While either viola-

the penalties.

tion can ban a university from

A technical argument

the postseason, getting the

won an appeal for the 2018

offense lowered from a Level

Louisville men’s basketball

I to a Level II could result in a

program. A former program

retraction of the ban.

assistant of the Cardinals

Richard Karcher, an ac-

basketball team was released

complished author and expert

from a one-year show-cause

on sports law, is not confident

order after successfully argu-

that OSU will have a good

ing that he could not produce

case for this type of appeal.

incriminating evidence on

“I highly doubt this penalty

his phone because the phone

will be reduced on appeal,”

belonged to his mother.

Karcher said. “Because the

Because his mother was the

COI’s (committee on infrac-

one not cooperating with the

tions) decision explains how it

NCAA — not him — then he

weighed the ‘aggravating’ and

could not be found of failing

‘mitigating’ circumstances

to fully cooperate with the

and concluded that OSU

investigation.

committed a Level I Standard

What will OSU most likely argue?

violation, in which case the ‘penalty guidelines’ authorize

“You can appeal two

a postseason ban of one to two

things,” Glazier said. “You can appeal findings of viola-

years.”

The other point OSU

tions, or you can appeal the

could argue is that the NCAA

penalty.”

Committee on Infraction’s

OSU’s plan to appeal is

punishment was too harsh,

still to be revealed. It may

also called an “abuse of dis-

be possible to argue that

cretion.”

Lamont Evans was guilty of a Level II violation, rather

In its official statement shortly after the penalties

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Given that strongly worded

current pandemic.

statement, it appears OSU may

Much like the initial pun-

take the latter appeals path —

ishment, which was rather un-

that the NCAA Committee on

expected, there is not a certain

Infractions punishment was an

date when the appeal ruling

abuse of discretion. Still, OSU

will be handed down.

is limited in the information it can use in its case.

“The appeal has to be based

“The NCAA bylaws do not impose a deadline for the IAC to issue a decision, but

on whatever was the record

I suspect a decision will be

before the committee on in-

released before the start of the

fractions at the time” Glazier

season,” Karcher said.

said. “You cannot bring in new evidence.”

According to Glazier, what

While not guaranteed, a ruling before the college basketball season starts is likely.

OSU has to do boils down to

While OSU’s punishment is

one thing.

being appealed, the sanctions

“If the university is ap-

(including postseason ban)

pealing one or more of the

are stayed — meaning they

penalties that were imposed,

technically don’t exist until

they have to persuade the in-

the appeal results come out. A

fractions of appeals committee

quick ruling would mean that

that the committee of infrac-

OSU gets clarity and decisive-

tions decision was essentially

ness in what could otherwise

an abuse of discretion.

be an uncertain season with a

With this goal in mind, what will OSU’s appeal

looming punishment.

When all arguments have

process look like? When can

been made and a ruling has

Cowboy fans expect a ruling

been determined by the seven-

in these turbulent times?

person IAC, the decision will

Bylaw 19 of the NCAA

be final. OSU may ultimately

Division I manual states that

seek significant reductions

the board of directors — the

in penalty, or simply aim at

same people who appointed

having the postseason ban

the original committee on

removed, allowing that major

infractions — will appoint an

goal and reward to exist for

Infractions appeals commit-

the team.

tee (IAC) composed of seven people, with at least two of those people being from the

As for a positive outcome, Karcher isn’t optimistic.

“I highly doubt this penalty

general public. Those seven

will be reduced,” Karcher

people will ultimately decide

said.

S p o rt s

O S U Bas k e t ba l l

Column: Matthew-Alexander Moncrieffe’s potential is off the charts S u dee p Tum m a , Sports Editor, @ask tu m ma

In a Zoom call with reporters on April 16, OSU basketball coach Mike Boynton confidently spewed out an exhilarating line that sums up 4-star recruit Matthew-Alexander Moncrieffe from Orangeville Prep Academy in Ontario, Canada.

“If Matthew-Alexander Moncrieffe was a U.S. high school basketball player, he would be a top-20 player in the country,” Boynton said.

OSU is clearly high on the two-time Canadian Player of the Year.

And it’s easy to see why.

Just turn on the tape.

The 6-foot-7 wing is a top-tier athlete who certainly plays above the rim. His leaping ability and length just pop off the screen.

His 7-foot wingspan spreads to all facets of his game.

It’s not just the gaudy physical tools, his high motor allows him to squeeze every inch out of his talent. Moncrieffe is constantly hustling and giving full effort.

If his defender beats him, he doesn’t give up, he continues chasing his man and tries to swat the ball at the rim. If he’s driving and misses an easy layup,

MONDAY, JULY 6, 2020

Mike Boynton eagerly awaits the arrival of Matthew-Alexander Montcrieffe on his team.

he doesn’t just stare at the ball, he continues attacking the glass to grab the rebound and put the ball back up.

And that rebounding is one of the most impressive aspects of his game.

Moncrieffe averaged 7.2 rebounds a game as a senior. It wasn’t just the length and athleticism alone that allowed him to get to that mark.

Moncrieffe displayed his motor here. When the ball went up — on offense or defense — Moncrieffe crashed the glass hard.

If you just watch Moncrieffe after a shot attempt, he’s almost always in the paint. He has a nose for the ball.

And when he gets in

the paint, he has excellent anticipation for where the ball is going.

Moncrieffe should be an instant impact guy on the boards, and also as a defender.

While Moncrieffe possesses good lateral quickness, his defining traits are length and effort. He has the ability to guard multiple possessions and be a true difference-maker.

Without the ball, he understands team defense. He knows how to provide weak side help, make rotations and switch in pick-and-roll situations.

Then on offense, Moncrieffe is a really enticing prospect.

As it stands, he’s an aggressive slasher who

excels at attacking the rim. He has a quick first step, which allows him to explode to the rim.

He’s got a lot of savvy on his drives.

When he starts going downhill, he uses euro steps and side steps to split defenses with ease. He has great body control as well, which helps him stay square on those drives.

When he’s at the rim, he can finish through contact, but what’s really impressive to me is his finesse.

You think you have him trapped, he’s far away from the rim.

Then, out of nowhere, he’ll extend his arm out and elegantly finger roll the ball in. It’s

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Joshua Cleary/OColly

almost deceptive.

Then there’s one thing I love the most.

When at the rim, Moncrieffe can leverage the defender by shoving his body into said defender, but at the same time, using his own length to keep the ball away from the defense to score.

It’s not just the length, but the vertical and hang time allow Moncrieffe to stay in the air and make his move and finish. That and he’s equally adept at finishing with either hand.

Moncrieffe possesses a sweet blend of power and finesse that makes stopping him at the rim a tall task.

And it’s even more impressive when you

consider his jump shot will continue to be refined.

He averaged 21.8 points this season, which is crazy when you consider he wasn’t a huge threat from beyond the arc.

When the 3-point ball develops, he’ll be lethal. But for now, the driving will continue to show up on highlight reels.

Moncrieffe finds ways to score, but his playmaking ability is solid as well. He’s a good passer that can pass out of drives as well as he does standing.

His athleticism allows him to burst in transition and score on the break, which is a huge plus considering Cade Cunningham and Isaac Likekele are in the backcourt.

However you want to slice it, Moncrieffe is an enticing prospect for the Cowboys. His role this season is still in flux — he could be a Day One starter or a valuable bench player.

But you love what you see from the guy.

With a motor and physical tools you just can’t teach, the guy is going to be special.

He’s going to be an exciting player who appears destined for the NBA.

MONDAY, JULY 6, 2020

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MONDAY, JULY 6, 2020

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Horoscope

Los Angeles Times Daily Crossword Puzzle Edited by Rich Norris and Joyce Lewis

By Nancy Black Tribune Content Agency Todays Birthday (07/08/20). Partnership opens doors this year. Coordinate to raise your game. Plot your next journey. Reaching a personal milestone this summer leads to a plot twist in your romance. Winter introspection, consideration and planning inspire energized work and health. Join forces for mutual love and support.

To get the advantage, check the day’s rating: 10 is the easiest day, 0 the most challenging.

Aries (March 21-April 19) — Today is a 6 — Lay low. It’s easy to trip on words and actions. Observe developments. Edit your response. Adjust plans. Review priorities. Avoid travel, controversy and gossip. Keep promises.

Taurus (April 20-May 20) — Today is a 7 — Consider what you want to say and refine the message before issuing a group statement. Disagreements can spark easily. Patiently polish. Get feedback and adjust.

Gemini (May 21-June 20) — Today is an 8 — Professional challenges take focus.

Words and action could seem at cross purposes. Keep your head down, and focus on the job at hand.

Cancer (June 21-July 22) — Today is a 7 — You’re yearning to go explore.

Encounter new dangers. Expect barriers to traffic, shipments and travel. Words get easily twisted. Study a secret system.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) — Today is an 8 — Build secure financial foundations, despite uncertainty. Work could interfere with playtime. Exercise restraint, especially with spending. Focus on basic necessities. Creative work pays well.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) — Today is an 8 — Navigate challenging times with your partner by providing support and keeping quiet. Avoid controversy, rumors and risk. Arguments spark easily; patience pays off.

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) — Today is a 7 — Prioritize health and wellness. Exercise clears your head and builds energy. Slow to avoid accidents. Actions and words can backfire today. Keep it cool.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) — Today is a 6 — Barriers confront your romantic plans. Tempers may be short. Relax and lower your own expectations. Cultivate patience for greater peace. Focus on love.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) — Today is a 7 — You can overcome a domestic irritation. Avoid sharp words, actions and corners. Consider costs and consequences before making a change. Obsess on details.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) — Today is a 9 — Avoid miscommunications.

Puzzles and intellectual challenges satisfy your curiosity. Edit and refine rather than publishing. The possibility of disagreement is high. Review options.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) — Today is a 9 — Aim for peaceful productivity. Keep your focus practical. Avoid controversy or rumors. With obstacles, wait for conditions to clear. Patience and silence are golden.

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) — Today is a 7 — Don’t get stopped by past failures; they show you what didn’t work. That’s valuable. Adjust your sights. Don’t be hasty. Pamper yourself and make personal plans.

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FOR RELEASE JULY 6, 2020

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Solution to Saturday’s puzzle

Complete the grid so each row, column and 3-by-3 box (in bold borders) contains every digit, 1 to 9.

For strategies on how to solve Sudoku, visit sudoku.org.uk

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30 Greatest possible degree 31 Decorated the walls, in a way 34 James of blues 35 Catchwords from Fred Flintstone 38 Speaker’s place 39 In perfect circumstances 40 City trains above the street 41 React to sad news 42 Twins Mary-Kate and Ashley 46 Dudes 48 Sheet of ice 50 By way of, in itineraries 51 Lager or pilsner 52 Catchwords from Charlie Brown 54 Catchword from a Ninja Turtle 56 Designer Nina 57 Airline once owned by Howard Hughes 58 Done in, as a dragon 59 Furry swimmer 60 Cagey 61 “Green” Vt. peaks 62 To be, to Brutus DOWN 1 Kid’s coloring stick 2 Jai alai ball

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45 “On Language” columnist William 47 Grazing locale 48 Paralyze with mist, as an airport 49 Student financing options 52 Tiny biter 53 Baptism or bris 54 Pennies: Abbr.

55 Einstein’s birth city