Surprising First Weekend

(St. Louis, MO) – Well, that was a surprise. The first weekend of Valley basketball did not turn out like we thought. We knew at least two of the perceived top four teams would have to get a loss (they played each other), but to see those four teams (Wichita State, Northern Iowa, Evansville and Illinois State) collect four losses was truly surprising.

We knew MVC defenses would be tougher on the top scorers, but to watch Anthony Beane (SIU), Marcus Marshall (Missouri State) and D.J. Balentine (Evansville) held to a combined FIVE three pointers on 29 chances and a scoring average of 15.5, was shocking.

So after one weekend, Wichita State is 2-0 and Drake is 0-2, just like we thought they’d be, but besides that, nothing is normal.

Many have been throwing dirt on the Indiana State coffin and the Sycamores are 2-0 after a two-point win at Illinois State and overtime win against Evansville. No surprises here. Greg Lansing still knows how to coach.

Southern Illinois is 0-2. That wasn’t expected, but isn’t shocking. What was stunning, was how they were dominated at Bradley (63-44) and, as we mentioned, how Beane has struggled offensively. Head Coach Barry Hinson has to get it figured out quickly. The Salukis’ next three games find a home game (Indiana State) sandwiched between road games at #23 Northern Iowa and #16 Wichita State.

Missouri State (8-6)(2-0) found their defensive abilities. After giving up at least 74 points in their last three non-conference games, but Bears have allowed 50 & 37 in the first two Valley games. All six of MSU’s losses have seen the opposition score 74 or more points.

A surprising first weekend wets our appetite for a very interesting run to Arch Madness!

Do Good