March 5, 2007

PLAYER OF THE WEEK: Al Thornton, Florida State
In the biggest game of the season, the Seminoles were in a must-win situation against Miami. Al Thornton took charge with 45 points and eight rebounds in an overtime win. Thornton also made all 11 of his free throw attempts in the victory.

TEAM OF THE WEEK: Washington
What a week for Lorenzo Romar's squad. First came an impressive victory over USC, followed by an upset over the Bruins of UCLA. Jon Brockman and company moved to 18-12 overall and I have to wonder why this team didn't play this well earlier in the season.

COACH OF THE WEEK: Gary Williams, Maryland
The Terps got big wins over Duke at Cameron Indoor Stadium and against NC State. Maryland has been hot down the stretch and this team reflects the intensity of its coach. Keep an eye on Maryland in the ACC tournament.

SHOCK OF THE WEEK: Wake Forest over Virginia
The Cavaliers were on the verge of clinching the ACC regular-season title, only needing a win at Wake Forest. The Demon Deacons, trying to avoid a tie for last in the conference, stunned Dave Leitao's club.

DIAPER DANDY OF THE WEEK: Scottie Reynolds, Villanova
He came through with 40 points against Connecticut in a road win. Reynolds followed up with 22 points in a victory over Syracuse.

Dick Vitale coached the Pistons and the University of Detroit before broadcasting ESPN's first college basketball game in December 1979. Send him a question for possible use on ESPNEWS.