Oregon Upsets Huskies

For the first time since maybe the 2004 tournament loss to UAB, the Husky men were beat by a more athletic team Thursday, as Oregon upset them in the first round of the Pac-10 tournament.

When the Huskies seemed ready to pull away, athletic plays by Jordan Kent and Malik Hairston kept the Ducks in the game. They hassled Ryan Appleby (who, it's now clear, probably shouldn't ever handle the ball) leapt for rebounds and putbacks, and contained Brandon Roy in the second half.

It was also a physical game. Roy and Jon Brockman both had cuts, and Ryan Appleby needed stitches after receiving a deliberate forearm shiver from Aaron Brooks, who was ejected.

The middle of the second half--while Roy was either out of the game or ineffective--was a frightening glimpse into the 2006-07 season. Top recruit Spencer Hawes will need to score immediately if the Dawgs are to contend again next season.

On the bright side, the Dawgs' eight straight wins before this loss ensure that they'll make the NCAA tournament for the third straight year--though they may be as low as a #6 seed. Still. Hard to complain.