Beyond the arc

Starting this week, I will highlight weekly notes and news from around the world of college basketball. I will definitely try to focus on news of interest to Texas Tech and the Big 12 conference. Sometimes, like this week, news from outside of the Big 12 will hold more importance. Here we go.

Big Ball(er) caught red handed?

LiAngelo Ball, Cody Riley and Jalen Hill were arrested the afternoon of Tuesday, November 7 for suspicion of shoplifting in China. The three UCLA players were released on bail the next morning. The freshmen were apparently “shopping” at a Louis Vitton store in Shanghai. I guess it’s better than shoplifting from Belk! The No. 21 ranked Bruins are scheduled to open their season on Friday against Georgia Tech.

Shoe scandal fallout begins

Chuck Person and Rashan Michel have been indicted according to a Department of Justice spokesman. The spokesman, Nicholas Baise, told ESPN the rest of those arrested in FBI probe are also expected to be indicted. Much more to come on this scandal. The schools and coaches involved are more than ready for the season to start which will take some attention away.

Big 12 Conference projections

The Big 12 teams begin play when Baylor takes on Central Arkansas Friday, November 10 at Noon. Kansas is once again heavily favored to win the conference title this year with most experts picking West Virginia and Baylor to finish second and third respectively. Texas Tech is picked either fifth or sixth in most polls. The preseason player of the year according to the Big 12 preseason poll is Devonte’ Graham of Kansas. Tech’s Zach Smith was named to the preseason all Big 12 team with Keenan Evans added as an honorable mention.

Texas Tech men begin season

The Tech men’s hoops team begins their season on Friday, November 10 at 8pm when they host the Jaguars of South Alabama. The excitement for the Tech team is building as some think this team could be the best team of all time. We will have the season to find out. Many think less than an NCAA tournament bid would be a disappointment.

Texas Tech Lady Raiders

The Tech Lady Raiders opened the season with an easy win over St. Edwards in an exhibition game last Sunday, 73-40. Tech held the Hilltoppers to just 25 percent shooting from the field and held them to less than 10 points in every quarter except the third. Meanwhile the Lady Raiders shot 46 percent from the field and 86 percent from the free throw line on 19 of 22 shooting. Sophomore Erin Degrate came off the bench and led all scorers with 14 points in 16 minutes of playing time. Lady Raiders will be back in action on Sunday, November 12 at home against Texas State. The game tips at 2 pm.