Wright St +10.5
I am going to back a hot team who seems to be getting it together after a horrendous start. Just 2 months ago this team was picked to win the Horizon league, and were picked ahead of Butler. A lot has changed in those 2 months, but Wright St has been getting healthier, and the results on the court have been showing just that. Vaughn Duggins, the Raiders best player, has played in just 4 games this season, but is officially listed as questionable for tonight's game. He did travel with the team and says he wants to play. He is literally going to be a game time decision.
http://www.daytondailynews.com/o/co...tatesports/entries/2009/01/07/theyre_off.html
Another important player was all league performer Todd Brown. He wasn't injured, but mine as well should have been. He got off to a brutal start, and looked completely lost. However the past 4 games he has shown signs of life. He has increased his scoring average to over 7 ppg and has scored in double figures in 5 of the last 6 games. He has hit a 3 in each of his last 4 games, and is 16-27 for 59% his last 4 games shooting. With Brown's confidence growing, and the return of Duggins that should be the lift the Raiders needed to get them over the top. They got things rolling at the right time so the season is not lost. They haven't suffered any of their losses during conference play, and some of the early season injuries may be a blessing in disguise. They will gain some depth by forcing some players into action when the injury bug hit them. These reserves gained some very valuable in game experience which should benefit them come conference play. Even with all the losses one thing didn't change. WSU continued to play defense. They are only allowing opponents to shoot 38.3%. Brownell is an excellent coach, and his job getting his team through this early season swoon should speak to his coaching ability. Wright St has also seemed to have Butler's number over the past 2 seasons. Of the Bulldogs 11 losses, 3 of them have been by Wright St. I think 10.5 is way too many points for a game that should be played in the 50's or 60's.