Toledo (NIT 1st Round) Game Thread

[lhsgolf19]

Will Mali play that is the big question... Time to see what the kid's got and where their hearts are... The Rockets won the MAC Regular Season title this year but lost in the Semis of the MAC Tournament.

Game is at 7 PM on Wednesday Night and will be on ESPN+.

Starting Lineup:
G 10 RayJ Dennis 6’2” 180 JR Plainfield, IL
G 5 Ryan Rollins 6’4” 180 SO Macomb, MI
G 0 Ra’Heim Moss 6’4” 205 RS FR Springfield, OH
F 4 Setric Millner Jr. 6’7” 205 JR Little Rock, AR
F 32 JT Shumate 6’7” 210 JR Newark, OH

First Team All-MAC Rollins leads the way (team leading 19 PPG & 6.1 RPG)... Shumate was 2nd Team at 15.5 PPG 6 RPG, but he can shoot it to (50.8% from 3)... Looks like Millner had a solid year at 14.9 PPG... Dennis is their floor general 12.7 PPG and a team leading 4.1 APG.

As a team they average about 80 points a night, so it will be interesting to see how they do if Mali is out.

Let's see if we can keep the season going... Go UD!

[Piqua Flyer '66]

Not a question of heart, it's how serious is his sprain.
IMHO he will play if able but not if risking further injury

[Swampy Meadows]

My column from the last time UD played at Toledo in 2009:

http://www.udpride.com/forums/showthread.php?t=7555

[Radar]

Not a question of heart, it's how serious is his sprain.
IMHO he will play if able but not if risking further injury

It would be nice to have an update on Mali, even if it's to say he's done for the postseason, but that's not how the U operates with regard to injuries. Having said that, there were two separate stories in today's DDN about the Flyers in the NIT. One was about UD's thought process on rolling the dice on First Four vs ever hosting an NIT game, even at another location, the other story was about the upcoming game itself. Both authored by Jablonski, yet neither even broaching the question of Mali's health. At least tell us you asked and the staff said "nothing to see here".

[Alberto Strasse]

Without Malachi no advancing.

[steverino015]

Hope I'm wrong,
without Mali I don't see us getting
out of Toledo with a W.....so

without knowing if he is playing,
going on no news is not good news.

Rockets 67
Flyers 65

[Lifelong Flyer Fan]

It would be nice to have an update on Mali, even if it's to say he's done for the postseason, but that's not how the U operates with regard to injuries. Having said that, there were two separate stories in today's DDN about the Flyers in the NIT. One was about UD's thought process on rolling the dice on First Four vs ever hosting an NIT game, even at another location, the other story was about the upcoming game itself. Both authored by Jablonski, yet neither even broaching the question of Mali's health. At least tell us you asked and the staff said "nothing to see here".

Jablonski tweet yesterday
"Many people have asked for an update on Malachi Smith. I did ask. I have not heard anything yet."

[Radar]

Jablonski tweet yesterday
"Many people have asked for an update on Malachi Smith. I did ask. I have not heard anything yet."

Thanks.
Wonder why he can’t print that in DDN?
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[Jack D]

https://twitter.com/larryhansgen/status/1503865439465652226?s=20&t=VDVSbh9n-YrbZm7Hr28a0g

Is that malachi on the court?

[Monster Man]

Looks like Amafule
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[lhsgolf19]

With Mali out, will need some minutes out of Christian Wilson tonight
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[maddog07]

With Mali out, will need some minutes out of Christian Wilson tonight
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I’ll wager he doesn’t play unless in garbage time. He’s got very little game.
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[lhsgolf19]

I’ll wager he doesn’t play unless in garbage time. He’s got very little game.
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I win

[Monster Man]

maddog wrong again, what else is new?
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[lhsgolf19]

8-7 Toledo 5 min in

[frisco flyer]

We need to be more assertive inside.

[maddog07]

I’m wrong on him playing…. Not on his abilities. He’s terrible. Sad that Blakney on someone else can’t help at guard.
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[Kevinob15]

If they’re gonna let them hack us down low without a whistle we don’t stand a chance tonight. Front court is all we have.
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[Radar]

We’re not serious about winning with Wilson being first sub in.
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[Monster Man]

I’m wrong on him playing…. Not on his abilities. He’s terrible. Sad that Blakney on someone else can’t help at guard.
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Wrong about Brea and Elvis’ abilities too.
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[ClaytonFlyerFan]

I’m wrong on him playing…. Not on his abilities. He’s terrible. Sad that Blakney on someone else can’t help at guard.
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The kid has busted his butt for 4 years as a walk on. Grant has even said in 2020 he is one of the better kids he has ever had run the scout team. You are an ASS with your comments

[jack72]

Washington looking good!!
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[ClaytonFlyerFan]

We’re not serious about winning with Wilson being first sub in.
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who the hell would you suggest to give us a few minutes at the point? Smart move by Grant to keep Elvis fresh early.

[CoffeeCan]

Elvis cannot hit that floater. Seen him miss that a lot of times lately.

[lhsgolf19]

11-8 UD with 11:45 left

[longtimefan67]

What does Washington playing in this game tell you?

[TommyGola]

Elvis cannot hit that floater. Seen him miss that a lot of times lately.

Elvis has struggle the last few games. He got bailed out on that blocking call.

[maddog07]

Wrong about Brea and Elvis’ abilities too.
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No… they are clearly NIT level players. I admit to that.
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[Radar]

who the hell would you suggest to give us a few minutes at the point? Smart move by Grant to keep Elvis fresh early.

Read my post. First. Sub. In. 3 mins into game. Set the tone with starters and relatively new PG.
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[The Fly]

Wilson, Washington, Sissoko early … this must be Grant’s everybody and the kitchen sink strategy. Interesting,

[TommyGola]

who the hell would you suggest to give us a few minutes at the point? Smart move by Grant to keep Elvis fresh early.

I think it is a good move. Christian will be fine for eight minutes of relief.

[jack72]

It appears Elvis has no confidence in his outside shot, or shot period.
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[TommyGola]

Wilson, Washington, Sissoko early … this must be Grant’s everybody and the kitchen sink strategy. Interesting,

I was thinking the same thing. Washington looked really good on that break.

[frisco flyer]

Wilson, Washington, Sissoko early … this must be Grant’s everybody and the kitchen sink strategy. Interesting,

Put them all in early, and give minutes to those who rise to the occasion. We’ll see how this plays out.

[jack72]

Christian has always showed great composure. That is all you can ask.
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[maddog07]

The kid has busted his butt for 4 years as a walk on. Grant has even said in 2020 he is one of the better kids he has ever had run the scout team. You are an ASS with your comments

He got 30 seconds. Did you see what he looked like? Way overman you a MAC team. He’s probably a great kid. Just not a good basketball player.
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[TA111]

Fact that Washington is in before Zimi is telling.

[Monster Man]

No… they are clearly NIT level players. I admit to that.
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Why are you even a fan? All you do is rip our players.
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[longtimefan67]

Washington looking really good

[TommyGola]

Great pass by Washington to Sissoko.

[longtimefan67]

Fact that Washington is in before Zimi is telling.

Agree 100%

[TommyGola]

Flyers are hitting both boards.

[CoffeeCan]

If Grant really wants to build for the future, he can start with keeping Amzil's minutes to a minimum. I think we know what we have with him by now.

[lhsgolf19]

19-12 UD with 7:25 left... RJ with 2 FTs after the break

[TA111]

Great pass by Washington to Sissoko.

And that was with his off hand. The kid does have talent.

[maddog07]

Why are you even a fan? All you do is rip our players.
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You bet I am. Just railing against the mediocrity.
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[DGO67]

Flyers look tentative, but the Rockets are out of sync.

[udx2]

Love this defense

[TommyGola]

Come on, Carmara, don't settle for the outside shot when we have such a competitive advantage inside.

[ClaytonFlyerFan]

He got 30 seconds. Did you see what he looked like? Way overman you a MAC team. He’s probably a great kid. Just not a good basketball player.
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It was just shy of 3 minutes. He did nothing stupid, no turnovers, no poor defense. He did his job to perfection, giving Elvis a few minute breather

[Monster Man]

You bet I am. Just railing against the mediocrity.
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The 6th Man of the year isn’t a good player? You’re such a clown.
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[lhsgolf19]

28-18 UD with 3:52 left

[longtimefan67]

The 6th Man of the year isn’t a good player? You’re such a clown.
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Give Maddog a break, his coach got fired today

[jack72]

Flyers looking very good. Great ball movement despite no Mali. Only shooting 39% on some easy misses and three blocked shots.
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[maddog07]

The 6th Man of the year isn’t a good player? You’re such a clown.
Posted via Mobile Device

He’s ok. Way better than last year when he was awful. His shooting I had really improved and he had several fine games this year. But he doesn’t start and his minutes are limited. Because he can’t guard a fire hydrant.
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[Flyer 86]

I think coach missed it by not playing Washington more during the season. Glad he's getting minutes tonight, and most likely next few games!

[TommyGola]

Holmes has great hands around the bucket.

[lhsgolf19]

34-23 at the break... Not a bad hal

[TommyGola]

Sissoko with a good catch and finish. He always gives 100%.

[udx2]

Great first half. Hope it continues.

[jack72]

42% to their 32. Rebounds is ours 25-16. And only 2 turnovers.
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[tirebiter]

No point guard and only 2 turnovers. They are rising to the challenge. Keep it up!

[TA111]

42% to their 32. Rebounds is ours 25-16. And only 2 turnovers.
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Yes, I’m surprised by the TO number considering we’re playing without a true PG.

[jack72]

Brea with 7 pts, 6 rebounds, an assist and a steal!!
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[jack72]

Holmes with 10 and 4.
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[CJ2etc]

Sidebar - who tf is Dayun?

Why can't > 50% of announcers enunciate a f n T? Just really gets on my nerves.

Ok, back to important things

[Flyer 86]

I think coach missed it by not playing Washington more during the season. Glad he's getting minutes tonight, and most likely next few games!

To follow up on this. I think there was no way for AG to know how poorly Mustafa would be most of the year. That's likely good part of the rationale

[Monster Man]

Sidebar - who tf is Dayun?

Why can't > 50% of announcers enunciate a f n T? Just really gets on my nerves.

Ok, back to important things

Exactly, when did this start? How can you not pronounce Dayton correctly?
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[tirebiter]

Elvis not shooting well but does have 5 assists.

[udx2]

Sissoko 3 for 4, had to check the TOs stat a couple times to make sure it is right, and the rebound difference are my favorite stats.

[San Diego Flyer]

He got 30 seconds. Did you see what he looked like? Way overman you a MAC team. He’s probably a great kid. Just not a good basketball player.
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Your tough. I would hate to have you judging the Miss USA contest with only one winner.
These walkons are not chopped liver. The play a role.

[Fudd]

Give Maddog a break, his coach got fired today

I wish I could thank that post twice.

It brings back memories of hUDygrad.

[jack72]

Wasn’t Washington injured the last couple of weeks?
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[Jeff]

1st Half Observations

1) Size matters
2) Great D
3) Need to keep up the pressure

[jack72]

1-9 on threes. Blakney 0-3
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[Jeff]

What does Washington playing in this game tell you?


AG giving him a taste so he doesnt transfer?

[Jeff]

It appears Elvis has no confidence in his outside shot, or shot period.
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He's had the yips for 6-7 games now.

[DGO67]

Your tough. I would hate to have you judging the Miss USA contest with only one winner.
These walkons are not chopped liver. The play a role.
Our Flyers are not laying down...in this to win!

[Swampy Meadows]

Sidebar - who tf is Dayun?

Why can't > 50% of announcers enunciate a f n T? Just really gets on my nerves.

Ok, back to important things

I call it the "Alaa Abdelnaby Effect." The former Duke star was the first announcer I recall having this problem. Alaa was from NJ and I think it's a NY/NJ thing. I grew up in Boston and it was not prevalent there.

[udx2]

Beautiful on both ends

[lhsgolf19]

45-27 with 15:45 left

[TommyGola]

Flyers have players this year who can really finish around the hoop - Holmes and Camara.

[CT Flyer]

I call it the "Alaa Abdelnaby Effect." The former Duke star was the first announcer I recall having this problem. Alaa was from NJ and I think it's a NY/NJ thing. I grew up in Boston and it was not prevalent there.

I went to school with a girl from Rochester who said that way too.

[San Diego Flyer]

He's had the yips for 6-7 games now.

Same with Mustapha. He and Elvis have the yips. Can't make a 2 foot putt right now.

[Fudd]

We look good in every way except for out pg play. This is not a knock on the 2-guards who are trying to fill the void, but we could be so much better with a pg floor leader. We just outclass Toledo everywhere else on the floor so we are winning convincingly.

[longtimefan67]

AG giving him a taste so he doesnt transfer?

Who hasn’t played?

[jack72]

Grant has all but packed Zimi’s bags.
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[Jeff]

Holmes with authority!

[Jeff]

Who hasn’t played?

Agree with that, but Washington has been sparingly used all year. The thought may be to give him some tournament minutes in order to send the message that he's still part of the long game.

[TommyGola]

Come on guys, no show-time. Get the ball in the hands of a guard. That was being too greedy and clumsy.

[lhsgolf19]

57-43 with 10:20 left

[Swampy Meadows]

Don't even try to complain about AG not calling a TO--he just did

[longtimefan67]

Agree with that, but Washington has been sparingly used all year. The thought may be to give him some tournament minutes in order to send the message that he's still part of the long game.

I think either he’s been hustling his a55 off in practice or someone else hasn’t because they aren’t going to be at Dayton much longer

[jack72]

Our defense has become soft. Keep the pedal down.
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[CvilleFlyer]

Five point swing there! Every time Camara makes a turnover (missed dunk) it changes the momentum. I hope that is not the case here.

[Jeff]

Elvis channeling his inner Mali.

[lhsgolf19]

60-45 with 7:05 left

[ClaytonFlyerFan]

Brea one rebound away from a double double with 7 minutes to go

Elvis with 8 assists and 1 turnover

Keep up the hard work gentlemen!

[tirebiter]

Hope we see more Washington.

[San Diego Flyer]

15 point lead and 7 minutes. All I can think about is La Salle. No turnovers now.

[Radar]

Don't even try to complain about AG not calling a TO--he just did

What’s that about? ^
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[jack72]

Blakney with a rough game. Bad D allows a layup. He is 1-5 with one rebound and nervous hands.
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[jack72]

Brea with a 13 and 10 double double.
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[Jeff]

Don't even try to complain about AG not calling a TO--he just did

Yeah, but, but, but....

[Jeff]

Outside shooting better improve as the competition does.

[lhsgolf19]

Up 17 with 6:30 left

[Swampy Meadows]

Hope we see more Washington.

Granted--get it--Grant-ed

[Jeff]

Blakney with a rough game. Bad D allows a layup. He is 1-5 with one rebound and nervous hands.
Posted via Mobile Device

Story of his year. Good game, disappears, good game, etc. Has a kick for "splash plays" though.

[lhsgolf19]

66-52 with 3:25 left

[TommyGola]

The Rockets just seem weak in the paint. The Flyers have completely dominated there.

[Radar]

Devin Olivers’s family in attendance.
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[T-Bone 84]

Fact that Washington is in before Zimi is telling.

If that isn’t a sign that Zimi is gone, I don’t know what is.
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[TommyGola]

Great three by Washington. He has looked really good on both sides of the ball.

[udx2]

Classy act, Rockets’ coach K.

[Jeff]

Good effort.

[lhsgolf19]

74-55 Final

Onto Nashville and Rodney

[ClaytonFlyerFan]

Just for the rabidKittyKat

Player of the game Wilson! Did just what he needed to do to give Elvis a break and allow Elvis to put up big numbers.

[jack72]

Did Toledo shake hands other than Moss?
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[udx2]

Keep this up v. Vandy. Good game.

[Swampy Meadows]

Did Toledo just skip the handshake line?

[Monster Man]

Did Toledo shake hands other than Moss?
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No, weak act in my opinion. Shake hands and show some **** sportsmanship, don’t like this trend at all.
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[T-Bone 84]

Did Toledo just skip the handshake line?

Well, that’s a sh!++y attitude!
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[Radar]

No, weak act in my opinion. Shake hands and show some **** sportsmanship, don’t like this trend at all.
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It was intentional. The MAC did not do the handshake line in conference. Still taking precautions.
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[CvilleFlyer]

After the game the announcer said the Da yun players were all smiles headed back down I75
to Da yun!

[Swampy Meadows]

RJ dunk: https://twitter.com/DavidPJablonski/status/1504255808653176833?cxt=HHwWgsC54YSsmOApAAAA

[San Diego Flyer]

Did Toledo just skip the handshake line?

HOO Kares !!

[jack72]

What a bad act, not shaking. Not like we played a dirty game or had any scuffles. It reflects badly on the school and the coach. Don’t care if you feel badly, man up.
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[Radar]

What a bad act, not shaking. Not like we played a dirty game or had any scuffles. It reflects badly on the school and the coach. Don’t care if you feel badly, man up.
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Chill. It was intentional. MAC had the rule all year.
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[Alberto Strasse]

Congratulations to the coaches and players. Bring on Vanderbilt!

[jack72]

My bad
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[Radar]

My bad
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NP!! Go Flyers!
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[jack72]

Elvis with a great game 11 pts, 8 assists, 7 rebounds, 1 steal and 1 turnover
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[steverino015]

Elvis and Brea very good games today....

Brea double double, Elvis darn near a double
double 8 assists and 1 turnover...outstanding

[CvilleFlyer]

Elvis with a great game 11 pts, 8 assists, 7 rebounds, 1 steal and 1 turnover
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Several UD Priders commented on the NIT Selection Thread that we would not beat Toledo without Mali but I disagreed and said we would dominate the inside game because of our height advantage. Also, I predicted that Elvis would rise to the occasion and he sure did as evidenced by the above stats! Using Christian Wilson as a PG relief and Washington with some valuable minutes was a stroke of genius by Anthony Grant!

[Flyer 86]

Several UD Priders commented on the NIT Selection Thread that we would not beat Toledo without Mali but I disagreed and said we would dominate the inside game because of our height advantage. Also, I predicted that Elvis would rise to the occasion and he sure did as evidenced by the above stats! Using Christian Wilson as a PG relief and Washington with some valuable minutes was a stroke of genius by Anthony Grant!


Right on !!

[Smitty10]

Several UD Priders commented on the NIT Selection Thread that we would not beat Toledo without Mali but I disagreed and said we would dominate the inside game because of our height advantage. Also, I predicted that Elvis would rise to the occasion and he sure did as evidenced by the above stats! Using Christian Wilson as a PG relief and Washington with some valuable minutes was a stroke of genius by Anthony Grant!

Good call. I don't know if anyone else noticed, but the starting lineup for tonight's game was the same starting lineup that opened the season.

[BeckysTXA]

This team needs to take advantage of every game. We beg, borrow and steal if we have to to get solid opponents in the pre-conference. A lot of people were complaining about the pairing with Toledo. Should have been a NET 200 team. Not me. I want tough opponents because we need to get better. Next year started with practice this week. I hope this team wins the NIT because they will have played some solid teams and gained experience. But like most, I don’t really care about a NIT Championship. I care about my team getting better and there were players who got better tonight. Next up.

[San Diego Flyer]

There are several things that could help our scheduling challenges. One is the exposure to teams that won't schedule us. Second, I want a shot at Xavier. So maybe winning the NIT would be the best path forward, and serve to address all the above.