This was a pretty difficult year to get a good handle on this team's upside. Big part of the problem was the A10 was not very good this year - and that might be kind. If you don't agree, just take a look at what the A10 did collectively against the BigTen (and not many people are saying this a particularly good B10 this year).
Overall, A10 went 1-7 against the BigTen. Most of the games were on neutral courts, and many of the losses were to the middle or bottom of the Big Ten. Some of the lowlights included UD losing to Nebraska (13th out of 14 in B10), VCU getting pounded by the Illini (losing record in B10) and Rutgers (last place team in B10) pounding
Fordham.
So heading into March Madness, what do we know (or think we know) about UD:
1. DEFENSE is the key for this team.
2. They typically are very solid in "winning time" (last four minutes).
3. When they move and share the ball, they have a pretty balanced attack.
4. They don't quit.
Trouble spots:
1. Rebounding/inside presence. Josh's injury and losing Big Steve really hurt.
2. Starting numerous games poorly.
Not sure why that happens so often to a Senior laden and well coached team - thoughts from others?
3. Propensity to go through extended scoring droughts - particularly when they stop moving the ball.
4. Working against teams that play zone and/or pressure the ball up top.
I think a Sweet 16 run would be an amazing accomplishment. Would really help to stay off the 8/9 line. They need to play D for 40 minutes - that overcomes a lot of shortfalls. Keep it close and then I like this team's chances over the last four minutes.