Basketball has begun, and I actually have time to do a little reflection on what I’m looking forward to this season
1. UNLV – This is my first semester at UNLV. I’m drinking a ton of kool-aid as we speak. Coach Rice stepping in and lining up recruits is one thing. Getting this team to run is another. I believe they are capable because they certainly have the athletes and talent. Kruger had them plodding though, it might be hard for a few guys to shake the rust. I believe the heart of every hooper wants to run though. I expect the first games of the season to be mistake prone while they hone their style. Hopefully it will be in line for them to beat USC and allow them to give UNC a game, because North Carolina is gangster and they deserve to lose.
2. Michigan State – Down? You can’t keep the dancing teddy bear on the mat. People want to count them out and give props to sexy picks like Michigan or Illinois. Michigan State surprises you when you don’t expect them to. They’ll be just fine. Tourney team no doubt. Top 3 in the Big 10 too. I have the feeling they’ve moved past a few rotten apples and addition by subtraction could be a theme a lot of writers reference later on this year.
3. Western Michigan – Had good vibes from this team last year. New MAC tourney format may give them a shot at a hot run if they take care of the MAC West. I haven’t been able to read up on the team as much as I would like to. I’m just hoping they play well in trips to Duke and Gonzaga. Oh, and Central can eat shit. Still. Always.
UNLV home schedule kicks off on Friday. Looking to grab a game in LA when I’m there for a concert in early December.
Hoops.