CSI: ASU

Even before the DC call, it was hard not to notice how the definition of charge/block seemed to change from possession to possession. There were missed calls as well, including some that benefited UCLA, but referees missing something is a LOT more understandable to me than them flip-flopping on the definition of such a basic rule.

The look Aboya gave the ref after the no-call on Harden was classic.

Where Ty Abbott (#3) literally took about 6 steps, and no traveling call was made (it all took place before he began his dribble). I would love to see a replay of it.

I usually dont like to complain about refs, because the bad calls do tend to go both ways (like, I thought the officiating at the UW game was bad both ways), but last night was kinda ridiculously one sided in its badness.

They seemed set on not saying a positive thing about UCLA the entire game, going so far as to describe ASU’s turnover problem instead of UCLA’s defense. Meanwhile, they praised every player on ASU, as well as the coaching staff. Any love for the Bruins or CBH? Only saying that “this is a team that’s been to three straight final fours,” while implying that a) a fourth trip was unlikely and b) the team wasn’t playing up to par. The worst part, though, was when they thought an intentional foul should be called on Shipp, who stuck his leg out after shooting a desperation three. Just needed to get that off my chest. Let’s hope for a less nightmarish situation tomorrow, shall we?

OK, Bill McCabe, since a bad call seriously influenced the outcome of the game, how about the Bruins and Devils get together Sunday and replay the end of the game. Score tied, 69-69, Collison at the line?

That’s how you set things right. Maybe the Pac-10 office should have a wall of TV screens and monitor games for calls like this and blow the whistle when a serious, season-changing error is made.