Saturday was a huge day in UMass sports. Now the reason it was a huge day was because the men's hoop and hockey teams had disappointing Februarys. But putting that aside, it was a pretty fun day.

Hoop

* I think most UMass fans would rather consider Boston College their top hoop rival, but in truth there is no more natural rival than Rhode Island. The last two regular seasons have ended with UMass beating the Rams at the buzzer to deal a hugeblow to the Rams at-large bid hopes.

* Javorn Farrell continues to be emerge as a glue guy. In addition to 12 points including a couple of big second half shots, Farrell blocked shots and continued to pace UMass with his hustle.

* Sampson Carter continued to play better.

*  After getting whipped at Dayton, Wednesday, I'm guessing UMass is glad to get Charlotte.

Hockey

* The Minutemen seemed to have found themselves as they dominated to wins at Maine.

* UMass is a long shot to win the Hockey East championship, but you can be certain Boston College is less than enthusiastic about facing the suddenly resurgent Minutemen.

* Brett Watson is not a scorer. But he's been a great captain in recent years for the Minutemen. They've badly needed scoring and he's had a goal in each of the last three games as he tries to will his team back to life.