Inside the Lines

Friday, Feb. 10, 2017 Hoops Edition

Rising Above A year after facing an unthinkable tragedy, Emmanuel Omogbo has CSU in the hunt for a Mountain West championship | Page 11 | 2 Inside The Lines Friday, February 10, 2017 Mountain West Women’s Mountain West Men’s Basketball Standings Basketball Standings 10-2 (18-6) 8-3 (19-5) 8-3 (15-7) 9-3 (17-6)

8-4 (16-9) 9-4 (14-10)

8-5 (15-10) 7-5 (16-8)

6-6 (16-9) 7-5 (14-9)

6-6 (14-10) 6-6 (13-10)

5-6 (13-10) 5-6 (15-7)

5-6 (12-10) 5-6 (8-15) 4-8 (10-13) 3-8 (8-14)

3-8 (10-14) 2-9 (8-14)

3-9 (10-15) 1-10 (3-18)

Lory Student Center Box 13 EDITORIAL STAFF | 970-491-7513 ADVISING STAFF Fort Collins, CO 80523 Julia Rentsch | Editor-in-Chief Jim Rodenbush | Student Media Adviser This publication is not an offi cial publication of Colorado State [email protected] Kim Blumhardt | Advertising Manager University, but is published by an independent corporation using Mikaela Rodenbaugh | Managing Editor Cale Rogers | CTV Adviser the name ‘The Rocky Mountain Collegian’ pursuant to a license [email protected] Hannah Copeland | KCSU Adviser Inside granted by CSU. The Rocky Mountain Collegian is a 6,500-cir- culation student-run newspaper intended as a public forum. It Chad Deutschman | Sports Editor [email protected] KEY PHONE NUMBERS publishes four days a week during the regular fall and spring Distribution | 970-491-1774 semesters. During the last eight weeks of summer Collegian dis- Keegan Pope | Special Section Design Editor The Classifi eds | 970-491-1683 tribution drops to 3,500 and is published weekly. During the fi rst [email protected] four weeks of summer the Collegian does not publish. Colton Strickler | Assistant Sports Editor Display Advertising | 970-491-7467 Corrections may be submitted to the editor in chief and [email protected] or 970-491-6834 Lines will be printed as necessary on page two. The Collegian is a Eric Wolf | Sports Reporter complimentary publication for the Fort Collins community. The fi rst copy is free. Additional copies are 25 cents each. Letters to [email protected] the editor should be sent to [email protected]. Justin Michael | Sports Reporter [email protected] Inside The Lines 3 Friday, February 10, 2017 Colorado State men’s and women’s hoops teams finding success midway through conference season By Justin T. Michael After a slow start to the duo of Emmanuel Omogbo and 1995 and their worst finish in the New Mexico (14-10, 9-4 MW) @JustinTMichael season, the Spartans have won Gian Clavell all year. With six Mountain West ever. After winning four of their three straight against Mountain games remaining, the Rams will last five, the Lobos currently sit The Mountain West has his- West foes, most recently beating have an opportunity to win their On the women’s side... just two games out of first place torically been one of the more San Diego State 76-71 Tuesday first regular season conference The women’s league is a with games against both of the competitive mid-major basket- night. championship in school history. much di‹erent situation, as it top-two teams to go. ball conferences in division-one Led by Mountain West Play- is really only a three horse race. In UNM’s most recent win basketball, but over the last er of the Year candidate Bran- Who’s not? Going for fourth straight Moun- over Air Force, junior guard few years the perception of the don Clarke, the Spartans are rel- tain West championship, Colo- Cherise Beynon recorded the league has changed vastly. evant in the Mountain West for San Diego State (13-10, 5-6 MW) rado State currently sits alone first triple-double by a Lobo What used to be a multi-bid the first time since joining the After dominating the league in first place with Wyoming and since 1979 (20 points, 12 re- conference for the NCAA Tour- league. The sophomore forward for nearly a decade straight, San New Mexico shortly behind. bounds and 12 assists). nament has become single-bid is the league’s leading scorer, Diego State has struggled might- league at best, meaning that the averaging 19.2 points and eight ily this season. Who’s Hot? Who’s Not? end of year conference tourna- rebounds per-game. The Aztecs have blown dou- ment is much more important Currently sitting in eighth ble-digit leads in multiple games Colorado State (18-6, 10-2 MW) Wyoming (17-6, 9-3 MW) than the regular season title. Al- place, four of the Spartans sev- this season and have su‹ered Despite dropping their last The Cowgirls of Wyoming though winning the regular sea- en remaining games are against two separate three-game los- matchup against Utah State, and got o‹ to a red hot start to their son title is important because it teams with losing records and ing streaks. After losing three barely scrapping by UNLV the season, winning 18 of their first gets you a first round bye. the team is heating up at the per- out of their last five contests, game before, the Rams again find 21 games. Wyoming has cooled With only a handful of fect time. the Aztecs run of three-straight themselves being the creme of o‹ exponentially of late though, games remaining in the season, Colorado State (16-9, 8-4 MW) Mountain West regular season the crop in the Mountain West. losing three of their last five. the race for the Mountain West Despite playing with just titles will be coming to an end Led by a defense that ranks 4th Wyoming is still in solid po- league title is wide open. Nevada seven scholarship players this year. nationally in total defense, Colo- sition to compete for the league and Boise State are tied atop the throughout the majority of con- UNLV (10-15, 3-9 MW) rado State is set up to make their title, but with a remaining pair league, with Colorado State sit- ference-play, the Rams have Similarly to SDSU, UNLV fourth consecutive run at a reg- of games against Colorado State ting a half game back. more than held their own in the has perennially been a Moun- ular season conference cham- and a road game with New Mex- Here is a quick look at every- Mountain West and had one tain West powerhouse but in- pionship. Barring any unfore- ico still to go, the Cowgirls have thing you need to know about or two plays gone di‹erently stability within the program has seen circumstances and being a tough schedule to get back on Mountain West men’s hoops so against Boise State, they could led to the fall of the once mighty led by the Swedish duo of Ellen track with. far. very well be in first place right Rebels. Nystrom and Elin Gustavsson, Who’s hot? now. At 10-15 with six games to the Rams should not have any Justin Michael can be reached Winners in five of their last go, UNLV is on pace to finish be- issues claiming the title. by email at [email protected]. San Jose State (12-10, 5-6 MW) six contests, CSU has rode the low .500 for the first time since 4 Inside The Lines Friday, February 10, 2017 Koelliker stepping into new role for CSU

Snow College transfer Braden Koelliker scored a season-high 21 points in his Colorado State debut against New Mexico State on Nov. 13.PHOTO BY JAVON HARRIS COLLEGIAN

By Eddie Herz location. Koelliker spent his two a wise decision, considering the wasn’t the right fi t,” Koelliker he really is,” teammate Gian @Eddie_Herz years Knoxville, Tennessee, and 6-foot-8 forward had not consis- said. Clavell said. “He’s always on the the western part of North Caro- tently played basketball since his Koelliker also showed some fl oor and getting rebounds. That Age is no guarantee of matu- lina. Attendees of these mission senior year in high school. How- interest in Cal State Fullerton guy is probably the toughest guy rity. trips have a goal of spreading the ever, before going o’ to junior and Weber State. The latter of on the team, honestly.” Many basketball players be- Mormon faith. college, Koelliker met his even- the two was extremely intriguing Koelliker’s highlight as a Ram lieve they are grown men when “We proselyte to anyone we tual wife. for Koelliker. so far was in the season-opener given the opportunity to go to a come in contact with and we also “I got set up with her on a Colorado State ended up against the now 22-2 New Mex- Junior College or play Division-I do a lot of service,” Koelliker said. blind date two months after I got fi nding Koelliker before he ico State Aggies. The forward ball after high school. Though “We knock on doors. We talk to home from the missions trip,” found it. Though it was far from scored a career-high 21 points in some are, the attention creates people on the street. We volun- Koelliker said. “Then we dated home and he hardly knew any- 36 minutes of playing time. He an illusion of false confi dence teer at charities.” for a year, long distance for the thing about Fort Collins, Koel- also added nine rebounds. and maturity in many. The forward still had basket- fi rst semester I was in junior col- liker found out becoming a Ram Though Koelliker has not While Braden Koelliker ball on his mind throughout his lege. Then she moved down with would benefi t him most. topped seven points since, he has didn’t receive any Division I of- time trip. Although, he hardly me that second semester and we “(Colorado State) reached asserted himself as a hard-work- fers upon graduating Davis High was able to fi nd free time to even dated there and then got married out and contacted me,” Koelliker ing player who always gives it his School in Salt Lake City, Utah, shoot a ball. in the summer. She lives in Fort said. “I really wanted to stay close all. he very well could have stepped “It’s more of when you can,” Collins now as well.” to home and I really didn’t know “He goes down hard a lot,” played junior college basketball, Koelliker said. “If I had some free Koelliker attended Snow a whole lot about Colorado State Emmanuel Omogbo said. “He’s a common decision amongst time I would try to play but you’re College near his home in Utah until I came on my visit. But I fell always there to sacrifi ce his body. graduated high school basketball up 16 hours a day from morning for one year. During his one sea- in love with it then.” He’s a guy that can help us out a players looking to play at the Di- to evening for the church.” son at Snow, Koelliker excelled. Koelliker knew it would not lot on our run.” vision-I level. Not only was Koelliker in He contributed 13.2 points and be all smooth sailing once he Now that he is settled in his However for Koelliker, the great standing with his church 8.2 rebounds per game as a mem- started practicing for CSU. Often role at Colorado State, the next only contract he would be sign- after serving his time as a mis- ber of the Badgers. This gave him times junior college transfers move for Koelliker is helping his ing was one to attend a two-year sionary, he also felt like a new the Division-I exposure that he struggle transitioning to the Di- team advance to the big dance Mormon mission trip. man upon returning home to dreamed of. vision I level. in March. Koelliker believes the “My parents wanted me to go Utah. Koelliker found himself “I was able to stretch out the “Coming from JUCO to Di- only thing in the Rams way of because my dad went on a mis- on the trip. He had gained a new defense and shoot,” Koelliker vision-I the biggest thing was winning the Mountain West reg- sion in New Zealand,” Koelliker sense of maturity and felt as if he said. “But I was also able to put it learning to catch up with the ular season title and tournament said. “He knew the repercussions had become a man. on the fl oor too, so I kind of cre- speed, catch up with the physi- is themselves. and positive infl uence it would “I’m a totally di’ erent per- ated a hard matchup.” cality,” Koelliker said. “Coach Eustachy always says have on the rest of my life. My son from before and after the Koelliker had quite a few There have been some grow- that we are our own opponent,” parents didn’t overall make the mission,” Koelliker said. “You options in terms of where he ing pains behind the scenes in Koelliker said. “I think that’s the decision for me though, I did.” feel like you’ve done something would choose to play Division-I. terms of Koelliker’s transition. honest truth. We can come out Koelliker is a member of with your life. Like there is Considering his faith, Brigham However, Koelliker has been an and play as well as anybody any the Church of Jesus Christ Lat- something out there more than Young University was on his asset to the Rams on the fl oor. night and when we lose we beat ter-day Saints. Once a member just yourself and there is a bigger mind towards the beginning of He has held an extended role ourselves.” of the church turns 18 they are purpose. It was also just a huge the process. However, his inter- o’ the bench through 25 games eligible to apply for a two-year maturity boost for me.” est in becoming a Cougar quickly this season. And with the Rams Eddie Herz can be reached by missionary trip. If an individ- Following his mission trip, dwindled. depleted roster, he is a key to Col- email at [email protected]. ual is accepted by the Church Koelliker decided to attend a ju- “Every Mormon is kind of at- orado State’s success. authorities, they are assigned a nior college. It would prove to be tracted to BYU, but for me it just “He’s a superstar in his role, Inside The Lines 5 Friday, February 10, 2017 6 Inside The Lines Friday, February 10, 2017 Kaiser’s hustle proving invaluable for CSU

By Colin Barnard Player of the Year in Colorado @ColinBarnard_ has held for her entire basket- ball career. In her senior cam- Every team needs its Ener- paign in high school, Kaiser led gizer Bunny, and the Colorado the Broomfield Eagles to a state State women’s basketball team championship in their first sea- has found theirs in Callie Kaiser. son competing at the 5A level. The sophomore guard has Her team-leading 15.9 points per worked her way into the starting game certainly warranted her lineup for the Rams and ranks the award. fourth on the team in scoring But the 8.0 rebounds and behind Ellen Nystrom, Elin Gus- 3.7 steals per game during that tavsson and Hannah Tvrdy. But senior campaign show the de- the biggest di­erence she makes fensive mindset she has always is not scoring the ball. It is what played with. Her transition into Kaiser does empty handed that the defensive-oriented game makes her such a valuable asset plan of head coach Ryun Wil- for this team. liams seems to be a match made On an every-game basis, Kai- in heaven. ser’s hustle wreaks havoc on her “We really take pride in our opponents. She will sneak her defense,” Kaiser said. “I think way to a ball that she has no busi- (Williams) looks for those play- ness being around, get a hand ers who are gonna play hard ev- in the passing lane of the oppo- ery possession.” sition or jostle around a bigger Even after her breakout player to secure a rebound. game against New Mexico-High- Kaiser is a hustler, and she lands early in the season in which embraces it. she scored 20 points and flirted “I definitely see myself in a with a triple-double, Kaiser fo- (hustle) role,” Kaiser said. “I’ve cused on her ability to do what- Sophomore Callie Kaiser defends a Fresno State player Jan. 18 in a 73-56 Colorado State win. always played aggressive and like ever it is that the team needs. PHOTO BY JAVON HARRIS COLLEGIAN to get the hustle plays and do all “I always set goals for my- that, I love playing that way. I self – o­ensive rebounding, de- competition. er,” Williams said. “Just an than ever. think that’s a huge part of my role fensive rebounding, tips, steals,” The fearlessness Kaiser ex- active, active player. Callie is “I think we need to stay con- on this team.” Kaiser said. “I try to do what I hibits when attacking o­ensive somebody that is used to having sistent throughout the end of the Growing up with two old- can to help the team and I think rebounds and loose balls match- responsibility. I think she’ll con- year,” Kaiser said. “I know this is er brothers, Kaiser developed a getting the hustle plays helps a es the gritty playing style that tinue to grow in that role, so we the toughest time because we’re competitive drive early. As she lot.” she plays with throughout the surely anticipate her being a big all getting tired and still trying to established a determined playing Her focus on the o­en- game. Alongside continued of- part of how we continue to grow heal up. But just staying consis- style, Kaiser says that competing sive glass shows, as she leads fensive development, Williams our program.” tent and playing hard.” with a hustle-first mentality is the Rams with 1.5 o­ensive re- envisions Kaiser having more As CSU enters the home something that comes naturally bounds per game. And when she responsibility the more she ma- stretch of its conference sched- Colin Barnard can be reached to her. barely misses out on one, that ef- tures at CSU. ule, her grit and determination by email at sports@collegian. It’s a role that the former 5A fort is just enough to agitate her “She’s a very good rebound- may prove more beneficial now com. Inside The Lines 7 Friday, February 10, 2017 Unbreakable bond amongst veterans helping CSU men’s team overcome adversity By Justin T. Michael back was a blessing for every- and Larry only really plays sev- if we won the Mountain West all eight players. I am even in- @JustinTMichael body. Me, Larry (Eustachy) and en guys anyway. We were just Tournament or regular season cluding Juan (Sabino). I am Gian (Clavell) all share an un- worried about what was going title because of the fact that never doubting any of my play- Over the last two seasons, breakable bond.” on in our locker room.” everybody went through stuŠ ers or coaches.” the Colorado State men’s bas- The bond that these three Clavell echoed similar in their life but we were able to There is much basketball ketball team has faced adver- share is evident both on and statements and even thinks overcome it,” Omogbo said. to be played still, but after ev- sity at every turn, but with six oŠ the floor. Between battling Eustachy is more comfortable Although the senior did erything this team has been games remaining in the 2016-17 injuries, the Omogbo family managing the current total of emphasize that the team is through, it is evident that this season, the Rams, led by a bat- tragedy and Clavell’s oŠ-court seven players on the roster. The much more concerned with team cares about each other on tle tested senior duo, are within domestic violence incidents, fifth-year guard explained that winning the Mountain West and oŠ the floor and that bond a single game of first place. these three have been through the two-man rotation allows Tournament and getting a shot may just be their strongest as- Emmanuel Omogbo and a multitude of di‘cult situa- Eustachy to focus on what’s in the NCAA Tournament, even set. Gian Clavell have been per- tions. So when news came in going on the court rather than winning the regular season title Through thick and thin, forming at increasingly high that the team would be losing who needs to be substituted would be be a big deal for the this group has been there for levels on the court all season, Che Bob, Devocio Butler and and when. program, considering the cir- each other and continued to but it was never a smooth ride Kimani Jackson for the season Confident in their own cumstances. battle. With six games left, their getting here, as the senior lead- for failing to meet academic re- abilities and deaf to what the Similarly to Omogbo, path to a Mountain West cham- ers have had to grow up fast af- quirements, Omogbo was not outside world had to say about Clavell wants a chance to close pionship continues this Satur- ter dealing issues much bigger worried about his team’s ability their team, the Rams have felt out his collegiate career with day with Fresno State (14-10, than basketball. to handle the tough situation. all along that they would be an appearance in the NCAA 6-6 MW). “Everybody went through “The seven players that are able to compete for a Mountain Tournament and believes that it all here, especially me and here, we work,” Omogbo said. West Championship and with a strong team chemistry will give Justin Michael can be Gian (Clavell),” Omogbo said. “It ain’t like we have seven half dozen games left, CSU is in them that opportunity. reached by email at sports@col- “When he got hurt, for him to scrubs. We have seven real play- position to do exactly that. “This is the closest team,” legian.com. even take the chance and come ers. Most teams only play eight “It would be really special Clavell said.“I’m confident in

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Applications are due February 17, 2017. 8 Inside The Lines Friday, February 10, 2017 Colorado State embracing challenge of shorter bench Despite a rotation of just seven players, the Rams have thrived in Mountain West play, sitting in third place behind Boise State, Nevada

By Eddie Herz cused and ready to go we can “They’re going to be experi- utes per game. contributing over 20 minutes @Eddie_Herz take o– from there. It doesn’t enced for next year. For me “We worked hard in the per game. Adversity builds character. matter what the media is say- and Gian playing through our summer on our body and agil- Bonner and Koelliker have The Colorado State basketball ing. We are built for this.” mistakes helps us for the next ity,” Omogbo said. “Hard work had to take much larger roles team has learned this the hard The Rams achieved 18 wins level.” pays o–, and that’s what’s hap- than they had to begin the sea- way. last season with a roster that Eustachy has had no pening right now.” son. While this may have been After an 18-win season a was nine players deep almost All four have had to play unexpected, both have been year ago ended with a loss in every game. Their depth was in situations where they nor- up to the task. the Mountain West semifinals, similar during a 27-win cam- mally would be benched. All “I didn’t know exactly the Colorado State was slated paign two years ago and even Missing in Action four have also had some of what was going to happen, but to finish seventh in the confer- during a subpar 16-win season Devocio Butler (academics) their best games of the season as time went on I learned my ence in the 2016-17 season. in 2013. during this stretch. role,” Koelliker said. “It’s been Popular perception was Though having more than Kimani Jackson (academics) Paige notched a ca- a huge confidence booster for that the Rams were facing an seven players contribute sig- Che Bob (academics) reer-high in made field goals me just to see that we are sev- uphill battle this season. nificant minutes is only fairly against Boise State on Jan. 31 en guys coming together. We After all, CSU graduated common, literally having two Kevin Little (Div. I transfer) in a 20 point e–ort. Omogbo are all we have, and we have to three starters in Joe De Ci- options o– the bench is un- Robbie Berwick (Div. I transfer) has earned a double-double be a band of brothers, and we man, Tiel Daniels, and Antwan heard of for most teams, and in all but two of the eight con- have to look out for each oth- Scott from last season. Plus, especially for the Rams. But Lorenzo Jenkins (Div. I transfer) tests since the three-player er on the court. It’s been awe- John Gillon, the reigning ACC still, they never batted an eye. Kevin Ware (Div. I transfer) suspension. Clavell scored a some to be in this situation.” player of the week, transferred “It bothered me because career-high 37 points in a vic- It has been a challenge, to Syracuse to finish out his I lost my teammates,” Clavell tory against San Diego State but with 26 years as a head collegiate career. These four said. “But it also didn’t bother on Jan. 28. Nixon, who aver- coach under his belt, Eustachy players accounted for over me because I knew the seven choice but to significantly aged 4.8 points per game last knows a group capable of han- half of the Rams scoring a year that were playing were great. limit Clavell, Omogbo, Paige, season, has scored in double dling heavy minutes when he ago. It didn’t phase me at all.” and Nixon’s bench time. Since figures in seven of the Rams sees one. Colorado received anoth- Colorado State’s 16-9 (8-4 Bob, Butler and Jackson all of- eight contests since the roster “Gian can play 40 minutes, er obstacle when Gian Clavell Mountain West) record puts ficially were named ineligible, shrinkage. Prentiss can play 40 minutes, was suspended for the opening them on pace to eclipse its 18- before playing New Mexico on Redshirt freshman Nico we know we have guys who can nine games of the 2016-17 sea- win season from a season ago. Jan. 14, Clavell has averaged Carvacho, along with Anthony log all 40,” Eustachy said. son due to a domestic dispute The Rams currently sit two 38 minutes per game. Similar- Bonner and Braden Koelliker with an ex-girlfriend. In ad- games better overall and also ly, Nixon has played 35.6 min- o– the bench, have had to step Eddie Herz can be reached dition to Clavell’s University in Mountain West play than utes per contest, Omogbo av- up as well. Carvacho has be- by [email protected]. imposed suspension, key role they were through 25 games in eraged 33 minutes, and Paige come an everyday starter de- players in Che Bob, Devocio 2015-16. has been on the floor 32.6 min- spite his inexperience and is Butler and Kimani Jackson “It’s really sweet man,” were named academically in- Omogbo said. “It shows that eligible early in conference we worked with the seven play. players that are here. It’s not “We have more guys in like we have seven scrubs, we street clothes than in regular have seven real players.” uniforms for whatever rea- Colorado State currently son,” head coach Larry Eu- sits a half game back of Boise stachy said. State and Nevada in the Moun- Given these obstacles, tain West with six games re- Colorado State gave justice to maining. The question looms their preseason ranking to fin- whether CSU can continue ish seventh in the conference. to play seven players signifi- Facing the adversity, a cant minutes and capture the seventh-place finish suddenly Mountain West title? seemed overly optimistic. Es- Playing with seven players pecially since CSU has had to may has its downsides, such grind out the majority of their as the plethora of minutes conference slate with only for players, but while those seven players. Despite the minutes may become taxing challenges that have plagued over the course of a season, the Colorado State season. they also provide experience “We weren’t that worried to players whom otherwise about it,” senior forward Em- would not get it. manuel Omogbo said. “We “Prentiss (Nixon), Nico were just worried about what (Carvacho), and J.D. (Paige) was going on in our locker will get experience from this room. We were worried about a lot because they get to play what’s going on in everyone’s through their mistakes in Colorado State head coach Larry Eustachy talks to Nico Carvacho (behind) and Gian Clavell (right) during a head. Because if we are fo- games more,” Omogbo said. game earlier this season. PHOTO BY KEEGAN POPE COLLEGIAN Inside The Lines 9 Friday, February 10, 2017 Colorado State embracing challenge of shorter bench

Colorado State guard Hannah Tvrdy, a transfer from the University of Nebraska, has been one of a handful of key United tatesS -born players on Colorado State’s roster this season. PHOTO BY ELLIOTT JERGE COLLEGIAN Values of European basketball evident in Colorado State’s American-born players By Colin Barnard @ColinBarnard_ “It was just our plan when we turnovers per game (12.2) and Rams. Tvrdy and Kaiser both more experience playing against got here to change things quick- assist on over 60 percent of their start and provide ample produc- a higher level of competition. ly,” Williams said. “We went the made fi eld goals. tion while Hamm is relied upon We do like that. But the learning When Colorado State wom- international route and it’s been The team’s interest in this o– the bench. Jordyn Edwards curve is the same for everybody. en’s basketball head coach Ryun very good to us. We’ve got some style of play undoubtedly dic- (Seattle, Washington) is the only The college game is di– erent, it’s Williams arrived in 2012, he very good connections over tates the recruiting in the Unit- other U.S. born player to see the more physical, it’s faster. There’s brought with him a fresh out- there right now, and there’s just ed States. court this season, though she has a lot of non-negotiables in a sys- look on the team’s roster. a lot that we’re attracted to.” “(Foreign basketball) is a lit- been sidelined with a fractured tem, so they all have to learn A program in turmoil that Not only did Williams bring tle more team-oriented, it seems tibia since early December. that.” seemed years away from a re- in the talent from overseas, he like,” Williams said. “A little It’s clear that these players Allowing Colaivalu and Da- build, Williams made a confi - brought with it a style of basket- more unselfi sh.” fi t Williams’ foreign approach to vis time to mature and acclimate dent decision in his recruiting ball that is di– erent from that Of the 11 players to receive coaching. more to college basketball fl ows process. Rather than rely on played in the states. Rather than playing time this season, only Tvrdy and Kaiser are second perfectly into Williams’ scheme. players transferring from other individual performance reign- four of them are from the U.S. and third on the team in assists, By them gaining an extra year Division I schools or junior col- ing supreme, European basket- But looking at their play, there’s respectively. Kaiser, Hamm and of eligibility, Williams is able to leges, he looked overseas for his ball encourages players to rely no hiding that these women Tvrdy all rank in the top four utilize players with more experi- answer. It’s safe to say that has heavily on togetherness. Team- closely mirror that foreign style on the team in steals. Edwards’ ence, like those coming in from paid o– , and then some. work outweighs the individu- of basketball and have bought defensive prowess was on full overseas, for longer periods of In his fi rst full recruiting al, the o– ense is run on smart into Williams’ system. display when she was healthy, time. class, Williams and assistant decision-making and defense “They just fi t how we play,” too. She averaged two steals per The European impact is not coach Tim Moser brought over is played with much greater in- Williams said. “You’re always game through the team’s fi rst just from foreign players them- four European freshmen, in- tensity. gonna recruit kids that fi t your eight contests, more than any- selves. Its values have found cluding the record-breaking Williams’ focus on that play- system and fi t your style and that one else on the team until her their way into the lifeblood of Swedish duo of current se- ing style has certainly proven you want to coach. We’re not set injury. the team, foreigners and Amer- niors Ellen Nystrom and Elin its worth during his tenure at on that’s just where we recruit. Another di– erence in in- icans alike, and created a cohe- Gustavsson. Transfers Emilie CSU. This season, the Rams rank I mean last year we signed a kid ternational basketball is age. sive unit that is Colorado State Hesseldal and Gritt Ryder fol- fourth in the country in scoring from Cali, a kid from Colorado Because school systems are or- basketball. And considering the lowed suit. Just one year later, defense, limiting the opposi- Springs, a kid from Washington. ganized di– erently overseas, success it has garnered over the the Rams’ roster featured eight tion to 52 points per game, and So we’ll go wherever we’ve gotta players usually enter the pro- years, there’s no reason to be- players from overseas who de- second nationally in fi eld-goal go to get them.” gram 1-2 years older than those lieve its focus will change any- cided to join the foreign trans- percentage defense allowing op- Hannah Tvrdy (Seward, Ne- from the U.S. time soon. formation. ponents to convert on just 32.7 braska), Callie Kaiser (Broom- The one thing with some It was clear from the get-go percent of their shots. fi eld, Colorado) and Myanne of the international kids, they Colin Barnard can be reached that Williams wanted a foreign O– ensively, the Rams are Hamm (Fort Collins, Colorado) come in here a little older,” Wil- by email at [email protected]. infl uence on his roster. ninth in the nation in fewest all play a signifi cant role for the liams said. “They have a little 10 Inside The Lines Friday, February 10, 2017 Clavell trying to stake claim as MW’s top player By Justin T. Michael @JustinTMichael 20 points in like five minutes but that is really the least of my wor- Since returning from a hand ries. I just want to do anything that injury that cost him the majority we need to win.” of the 2015-16 season, Gian Clavell One of the reasons Clavell has has been a man on a mission. been able to consistently create so The veteran guard from Puer- many scoring opportunities has to Rico has fine tuned his game been an increased attention to and worked hard to prove that moving without the ball. he is one of the top talents that “It is so tiring, let me tell you the Mountain West has to o–er. what, but I have to do it if I am go- Although known predominantly ing to score,” Clavell said. for his scoring abilities, Clavell has Along with out-hustling his become a complete player that the opponents on the o–ensive end, Rams can depend on both ends of Clavell has really made an im- the court. pact on both defense and the Widely recognized for the glass. Most players that score like ability to put up points in a hurry, Clavell tend to take it easy on the Clavell has not disappointed on other end of the floor, but that is the o–ensive end. The redshirt not the case at all with Clavell. senior guard leads the team in “I think I am the most com- scoring at 18.2 points per-game plete player in the conference,” and is shooting 46.6 percent from Clavell said. “I want to guard their the floor. best player. I want to play 38-40 Having scored in double fig- minutes. I rebound. I play-make. ures in 15 of his 16 appearances I am not just another stand-up this season, including a 37 point shooter that just comes o– screens performance at San Diego State and shoots. I want to do it all.” (Jan. 28), Clavell has been con- The attention to defense has sistently providing an o–ensive paid o– as the Rams are giving Colorado State guard Gian Clavell has become one of the Mountain West’s premier players this season, scoring spark throughout the season, up less than 70 points per-game in double-figures in 15 of his last 16 games. PHOTO BY KEEGAN POPE COLLEGIAN despite being targeted heavily in (67.5) and are tied for 47th best bringing down around 20 on any minutes, so it is tough to prepare ing has been the basis of every most opposing defensive schemes. in the nation with an average of given night. for a player that is going to con- Eustachy-led team in history and “You have got to do whatever 38.7 rebounds per contest. Even In an era where basketball stantly be in your face until the it has done wonders for the versa- it takes to win,” Clavell said. “I’m despite Emmanuel Omogbo has become all about the flash, whistle blows. tile guard. not an o–ensive-only guy at all. I bringing in ten-plus rebounds Clavell’s relentlessness on the Clavell is an old school type Justin Michael can be reached do everything. Whatever it takes per-game, Clavell has managed court is somewhat of a rarity in talent and it really fits head coach by email at [email protected]. to win, I’m going to do it. I know to average seven rebounds per- college hoops. Players are not Larry Eustachy’s style of play. Em- I can heat up quick and put up 15- game, which means the two are used to grinding for 40 straight phasizing defense and rebound- Inside The Lines 11 Friday, February 10, 2017 Omogbo leading third-place Rams

By Eddie Herz were right by me, and I really name. that go by when I’m not able to The continued success by @Eddie_Herz appreciate that. I’m grateful for “The whole Fort Col- talk them, yes, I miss that. But Omogbo through such a hectic it.” lins community really rallied life goes on. I have to do this time has been achieved partly Since tragically losing his The Maryland native also around me,” Omogbo said. “Ev- for the rest of my family. I have because of an ability to clear his family in a house fire last year, received tremendous aid from erybody helped me through other brothers and sisters that mind of outside noise. Emmanuel Omogbo has not his teammates and coaching this. That’s why I called it the are looking after me. I have to “I just have to play through missed a beat on the hardwood sta†. Omogbo’s counterpart, thank you season; it’s for my prove myself to them.” whatever people are saying,” thanks to of the support given Gian Clavell, in what is argu- teammates and everybody that Not only has Omogbo Omogbo said. “People might by the CSU basketball com- ably the best 1-2 punch in the helped me while I was going played through a di˜cult time, have bad things to say about me, munity and his desire to prove Mountain West, has been by but he has continued to im- good things to say. I don’t real- himself to the world. Omogbo’s side ever since. prove on the court to lead the ly listen to the outside things. Omogbo lost his mother, “Whenever he needed me, I The Omogbo File young Rams squad. I just listen to my teammates father, niece and nephew in a was just there,” Clavell said. “I After averaging 10.9 points and my coaches and everybody house fire last year, yet he still was trying to leave him by him- Height: 6’8 per game and eight rebounds else in the locker room.” projects incredible strength self because he told us he want- Weight: 210 lbs. last season, the big man has It’s clear that Omogbo has and a remarkable drive to suc- ed some space.” significantly improved in each grown as an individual from the ceed. Though Clavell was cau- Year: Senior category this year. Omogbo has tragedy, on and o† the court. Omogbo found comfort tious about overwhelming Hometown: Hyattsville, Md. scored 14 points per game and His teammates have witnessed on the court during this cata- Omogbo with support, he also grabbed 10.9 rebounds so far a transformation and growing strophic time. The senior for- joked that he can’t keep his Major: Communications this season. level of maturity. ward logged 10 minutes against hands o† of his close friend. Omogbo’s 14 double-dou- “I think for him it was a Air Force on Jan. 20, 2016, the “I’m always giving him bles this season lead the Moun- huge growing moment in his day after receiving news of his hugs,” Clavell said. “Regardless tain West. He had eight dou- life,” sophomore forward Bra- family’s passing. of the situation, I’m always giv- ble-doubles all of last season. den Koelliker said. “He really By the Rams tipped o†, the ing him hugs.” through my tragedy.” The 6-foot-8 forward is also had to step up and be a man, news had spread nation-wide. Although it’s been over a The South Plains College one of the country’s leading re- and it shows everyday. He did At that home game against San year since the devastating in- transfer feels a sense of obliga- bounders. Omogbo is currently that, and he’s taken upon that Jose State, Omogbo received a cident, the support has not tion to his loved ones. tied with the University of Cal- role of growing up and being a symbolic hug from Rams fans. slowed. Fans have raised over “Everything I ever did was ifornia’s Ivan Raab for the sev- man.” “I felt like they (fans), es- $100,000 on a GoFundMe ac- for my parents, even when I’m enth-highest rebounder in all Eddie Herz can be reached pecially when I came back for count for Omogbo. As a result playing,” Omogbo said. “Peo- of Division 1. Omogbo leads the by email at sports@collegian. that San Jose State game last of the constant assistance, ple thought I was crazy when I Mountain West in the rebound- com. year, gave me a lot of support,” Omogbo has given the 2016- said I was going to still play. I’m ing department by a large mar- Omogbo said. “A lot of people 2017 basketball season a special still my normal self. The days gin. Ellen N yst r om

13 | Forward | Senior | Lulea, Sweden|

PHOTO BY ELLIOTT JERGE COLLEGIAN Inside The Lines 13 Friday, February 10, 2017

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2 | Forward | Senior | Hyattsville, Md. |

PHOTO BY KEEGAN POPE COLLEGIAN Inside The Lines 15 Los Angeles Times Daily Crossword Puzzle Friday, February 10, 2017

14 Doling (out) 15 Declare 20 Furthermore 22 Mil. bravery medal 23 Evian, par exemple 24 Colorful flowers 25 The very beginning, figura- tively 27 Pretoria’s land: Abbr. 29 Virginie, to Eugénie 31 A long way away 34 Support beam 36 Penalty for wrongdoing 39 The Bulldogs of the SEC 40 Game player 41 Overruns 42 Fished with a net 43 Study of government 44 Meccano construction set 45 1973 Court decision alias 46 Old map abbr. 49 One of the fire signs 55 Attach, in a way 56 Magical opening 58 Beer ingredient 59 Act like a loon? 60 Map coordinate: Abbr. Across 50 Psyche’s beloved 61 Legal thing 1 Retro photos 51 Letters on old TV dials 63 Possesses 7 Condescends 52 Strainer 64 Poetic dusk 13 Tympanic membrane 53 For time eterne 65 Simile center 15 Half a notable San Francisco 54 “Girls” creator Dunham intersection 57 “There’s __ in ... “ 16 Heavy marble 58 XL squared 17 Worried about 60 Old Buick 18 Brandy letters 62 Indian spiced drink 19 Some grad students 66 Wearing, with “in” 21 P.O. boxful 67 Lots of shots 22 One of a divided trio? 68 Juiced-up Roadsters? 24 Like some room fresheners 69 Breastbones 26 Anthem contraction 28 Lucid Down 30 Tony winner Martin in the 1 French possessive 2013 “Pippin” Broadway revival 2 Take in 32 Cargo wts. 3 Hinder 33 With 43-Across, acting like an 4 Ominous date unscrupulous contractor ... and a 5 Patron of Alice’s hint to this puzzle’s circles 6 __ generis 35 Prom dress material 7 Louisville-to-Nashville dir. 37 They may be crunched 8 Fare-well bridge 38 Bollywood star Aishwarya __ 9 Scottish resort town known for 39 Curaçao cocktails its whisky 43 See 33-Across 10 Defeat at the polls 47 RR schedule listing 11 Gift 48 Land on a lake? 12 Barrett of Pink Floyd

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