EVANSVILLE — As the University of Evansville men’s basketball team prepares for an important stretch of its schedule, the urgency is palpable. Although it may seem premature to call this season “decisive,” time is running out for the Purple Aces, who started the season inauspiciously with a 3-7 record. This week, they will face challenges on the road against UT Arlington and Ball State before entering the Missouri Valley Conference tournament on December 29.
Despite their record, there are signs of hope if they can correct some glaring problems. However, as they approach the competition, it is clear that they will not lose sight of the implications of their current situation. Here’s a look at what we learned from Evansville’s early performance.
Conflict was the main theme of the first games, and recent performances show that this problem has not yet been resolved. In their last game against Chattanooga, the Aces trailed by 12 points at halftime, a ball missed by coach David Ragland due to poor communication on defense that allowed the Mocs to make nine three-pointers. Although UE came back with a spirited 13-0 comeback to take the lead with 10 minutes left, they ultimately fell short, losing by eight points. While basketball is full of twists and turns, it’s the lack of consistency that worries.
Read more:
Previews of Evansville basketball’s first 10 games
Evansville’s inconsistency was evident in their disappointing loss to Radford on November 16th, and it was precisely that poor performance that dampened their momentum as they prepared for the Valley Tournament. Their best win to date, according to the KemPom rankings, was against Campbell, currently ranked 269, highlighting the tough road ahead of them.
If the results against Murray State or Western Kentucky were different, the narrative would be more optimistic. However, the Aces currently rank as the lowest scoring team in the MVC, falling 41 spots. Fortunately, there are still many opportunities for improvement, and the sooner they can fix these issues, the better.
Read more:
The return of Jamarion Sharp: A player with impressive dimensions is eyeing the NBA
As Ragland pointed out, “Our execution in general could be cleaner. We’re practicing more efficiently than we show in games.
A depressing low point was marked by a 50-point road loss, a result that sparked frank internal discussion. However, after their trip to Ohio State, the Aces bounced back impressively, with Ragland noting that their wins over Green Bay and Campbell featured their most complete performances of the season, one highlighting the power of offensively, the other advocates a ferocious defensive effort.
Read more:
Kentucky Wildcats overcome Colgate challenge with 78-67 win: Key points
There are opportunities for success, like in their recent game against Murray State, where a late three-pointer from Tanner Cuff almost found the target. However, the effort shown, especially the late pressure in the final minutes, suggests that progress is on the horizon.
Gabriel Pozzato (15.4 points per game), Cam Haffner (14.2) and Tayshawn Comer (11.5) have been the mainstays for the Aces, providing consistent scoring as the team looks for stability.
Ragland reflected on the experience against Murray State saying, “When you give that level of effort and you don’t get the win, it can be disheartening. motivating and frustrating.
Read more:
Kentucky moved up to the Top 5 in the NET rankings after a dramatic win over Gonzaga
For Evansville to raise its level of play in conference play, the collective improvement of the entire roster is essential. Tanner Cuff, in particular, took a step forward last week with a record-breaking performance, scoring a career-high 18 points to go along with five rebounds and four assists in a game against Chattanooga. Prior to this, Cuff struggled to shoot from long range, hitting just three three-pointers in the first nine games. However, against the Moc, he made an impressive 4 of 6 from behind the three-point line.
It should be noted that simple scoring is not a measure of success. Cuff also leads the team in rebounds and is a reliable passer, with the fewest turnovers among starters, especially when attacking the basket. If Evansville can get similar contributions from players like Joshua Hughes or Connor Turnbull, the road to revitalizing their season will be more attainable.
Read more:
How to watch the NCAA matchup: The Evansville Aces host the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers
“It’s a microcosm of our team,” Ragland said. “We have the potential to continue at this level consistently. Our challenge lies in getting everyone to reach this peak at the same time, every outing.”
The starting unit undoubtedly showed flashes of light throughout the first ten games, but the limited minutes given to other players showed the potential for greater contributions.
An example is Michael Day. The 6-foot-11 sophomore, who is currently averaging just 2.0 points and 1.6 rebounds in nine minutes per game as the primary backup center, showed toughness as a rim protector to push the Aces in the second half. against Chattanooga.
Ragland also highlighted the performances of Kaia Berridge and Trent Hundley, both of whom showed promising signs. While the starting lineup appears solid, representing Evansville’s highest potential based on their preferred style of play, flexibility will be key at this point.
Read more:
Reflecting on Kentucky’s loss to Clemson: Key takeaways
“Every time Day’s number was called, he answered. His effort and energy was contagious. We need contributions from players like Mike, Kaia and Trent to strengthen our roster depth as the high continues. performance level throughout the season.”