Sunday, November 27, 2011

Must See TV

The BCs have noticed that our basketball posts of late have received very few comments. That could mean one of two things: (a) our readers think we said everything there is to say about a particular subject (we're flattered), and they have nothing to add, or (b) our readers are getting bored with our writing and our blogging.

If (b) is the correct answer, then that's worrisome. Perhaps it's time we tried something new or different. You know, rebrand ourselves . . . branch out a little. But what could we possibly write about? Let's see . . . we love basketball, travel, whiskers on kittens, bright copper kettles and warm woolen mittens. Wait, forget that, we took a wrong turn there. Hmmm, besides basketball and travel, we also enjoy watching television (selectively, of course.) That gave us an idea . . . we'd try our hand at becoming TV reviewers!

And we found the perfect show for our new careers as TV reviewers: Comcast SportsNet's "Under the Shell." The season premiere of this "reality show" aired this morning (Sunday) at 9 AM on our cable network. If you missed it, and our review piques your interest, (not to worry) CSN is rebroadcasting this first episode. So check your local listings for a rebroadcast, or watch the episode online, because (in the opinion of these two reviewers) you really missed a great show.

In case you're not familiar with this reality series, Under the Shell is in its seventh season. It provides an all-access behind-the-scenes and on-the-court look at the Maryland women's basketball team and the myriad cast of "characters" who are associated (officially and unofficially) with the Maryland program. The BCs have been fans of the program since it was first launched seven years ago. Back then, the show was produced by an experienced sports videographer, Mark Thomas. (Later he took a leave of absence from producing to concentrate on doing laundry.)

Since those early shows, the production has, at times, been somewhat uneven. Some years it's been really great; other seasons, enjoyable, but not really special. However, if this morning's episode is indicative of what we can expect for the rest of the series, then this season looks like it could be an exceptional one.

The producers, recognizing that the Terps have only played one game of note to date, wisely gave that game (MD v. Georgetown) its due, and then moved on to what might be called "human interest" stories. There are a good many humans associated with the Maryland Women's Basketball program. On the court and off, they are a pretty interesting bunch of people. So focusing on them makes for very entertaining and informative TV.

This week, we were treated to a fascinating glimpse of Trainer Matt Charvat's medical mission in Sierra Leone, as well as an amusing look at Ass't Coach David Adkins's efforts to milk his torn achilles tendon for all its worth when it comes to getting waited on hand and foot (so to speak) at home. The fun begins when Coach Adkins's wife sees a slightly different side of him at the Comcast Center.

Even the commercials were fun. Yes, Coach B is once again hyping a certain car dealership up in Maryland. (If we print the name, can we get a good deal on our next car?)

We'll stop there, because we don't want to fall into the trap of so many reviewers . . . simply reporting first this happened, then that happened, blah blah blah. No, we would rather you know we loved the show, without knowing every detail.

We want you to watch it yourself! And then catch Under the Shell when it airs bi-weekly through the end of the season. Ready Set Go Set your DVRs now!

15 Comments:

At 12:20 AM, Anonymous Anonymous said...

Maybe since we can't see the games yet we have to rely on your recap. Maybe when there are more TV games and home games people will respond.

 
At 8:16 AM, Anonymous Anonymous said...

Plus, they aren't playing anyone really--except Georgetown. I watched the show--glad for them they got some revenge especially since Georgetown has no class.

 
At 9:20 AM, Anonymous Anonymous said...

Plenty of home games this year! Come on out to the Comcast Center, I'm sure the team and staff would love to see more fans in the seats. The non-conference slate is a great time to get to know the team!

 
At 9:30 AM, Anonymous Anonymous said...

I think the reason you aren't getting as many comments is that your blog just about says it all. Besides, there aren't any "sore points" about the Terps. Also maybe people typed so mch over the summer, they're giving there fingers a rest! I am really impressed with the team this year, but especially Mincy. When she's hot, she isn't missing. When she's not, at least she is trying. And her defense against Sugrar was amazing. Keep it up Terps. Beat Michigan State!

 
At 9:44 AM, Blogger BasketCases said...

Dear Anonymous 9:30 AM,

We think there's NO chance that the Terps will beat Michigan State on Wednesday.

--BC

P.S. But we hope Miami will on Thursday. :)

 
At 11:09 AM, Blogger vmaione said...

I'm not sure my comment posted. Just in case, I'll try again.
The Terps will win on Wednesday1

Thanks, BC's for all of your great posts, year-round. Much appreciated!

 
At 1:00 PM, Anonymous Anonymous said...

HAHAHAHA--yes, I guess we all did get a little tired of typing after this summer. I agree, the Terps, for the most part, look great. Mincy is starting to come into her own and she will be key to the success of the team--her and maybe Brene. Thomas and Kizer--we know we are good. Hawkins--the biggest surprise for me. She has really improved her game. The amount of effort she puts forth--she has now become my favority player because of it. Effort and she can finish--quite impressed with Hawkins.

 
At 4:37 PM, Anonymous Anonymous said...

Your comments and observations are welcome and not "tired". Under the Shell was excellent - good mix in there this time!! no comparison to a Dukies show on Stics who shall remain nameless here...
You two do, however, need to quit hogging the t shirt toss on that side of the floor!! just sayin...

 
At 5:40 PM, Blogger BasketCases said...

Dear Anon at 4:37 PM:

It took three games before we got a T-shirt that fit! :-)

-- BC

 
At 8:20 PM, Anonymous Anonymous said...

Would that Ted Leonsis were as interested in the success of the Mystics as he appears to be in the success of the Caps.

 
At 10:25 PM, Anonymous Anonymous said...

Hey BCs, thanks for your commentary. I haven't been to any Terp games yet this year so I appreciate your posts. You're more interesting than "real" media!

I'm still exhausted from the Mystics this summer, but I'll have my game on before the Christmas tourney at Comcast!

Thanks BCs!

 
At 10:30 AM, Anonymous Anonymous said...

To be honest, I read your column for Mystics news, so I am less interested in the Terps. I understand and share your disgust with the Mystics organization and moves, but just cannot conjure up the same enthusiasm for a college team. I'll check in occasionally to see if you have anything to report re the DC women's pro team. Keep up the good work, however.

 
At 1:03 PM, Anonymous Laura said...

Hey BCs,
I love this blog but the Mystics have just wrung me out, so I've taken a break from women's basketball. Anyway, I was reminded this week of a post you had in the spring, when your Caps friends were off to watch the playoffs, and you were envious that they had a strong consistent team to support. This week many of my Caps fan friends finally understood the angst Mystics fans went through when a terrific coach was suddenly and almost inexplicably let go. Interesting pattern developing here...

 
At 4:42 PM, Anonymous Anonymous said...

I love the MdWBB and look forward to your blogs DCBC's. Don't change or stop.

 
At 1:22 PM, Anonymous Anonymous said...

You could have just said that I got it wrong, that we are playing Michigan. I would have appreciated knowing that. But thinking that you didn't believe Maryland would beat Michigan State (when I honestly thought that is who we were playing) made me feel like you really didn't believe in this time. A simple it's Michigan we are playing not Michigan State would have been much nicer.

 

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