This Valentines Day lets talk about how much heart these Ramblers have.
Sophomore Surprise
One constant talking point throughout year 2 A10 conference play has been how this Rambler team is different then last year’s squad. Record aside, an obvious difference between the teams, this valentines day lets spread the love on some other key highlights. Lets be honest last year it felt time and time again that the Ramblers stayed in for a good portion of the game but then just a few minutes later and their down double digits. This trend is not something we have seen a lot this year, instead recently we have seen a surge of finding a way to win even when down. With the Ramblers sitting toward the top of the Atlantic 10 conference standings has caught some by surprise. No matter how you chalk it up this team has found its drive and competes to the final whistle.
Down 2 with 9 seconds left against UMASS or down 12 to George Mason early, the Ramblers have found their own rhythm in how to win. From coaching crafting up the on the whiteboard to players finding each other on the court for major clutch shots. Its a team game no matter how you draw it up, the A10 is a conference where you can’t take games lightly. That is the feeling I get this year from this team, that even when they might seem like they dug themselves a hole, they fight their way out. Drew has these Ramblers with their heads up to contend and win as a team no matter who’s night it is.
Depth Dynamite
For the last few years I have heard the importance of next man up. Even when Loyola has had leaders and scorers on the court, having the numbers on a squad really makes an impact when competing at such a physical level in the Atlantic 10. From Freshmen to Super Senior transfers, all have contributed to key moments throughout the season so far and absolutely to the Loyola record. Through conference play Drew has found a comfort in a 10 man rotation with 9 players averaging over 10 minutes of play time and 4 averaging over 10 ppg. Key focus has been the starting lineup with Des Watson taking the charge in conference play and players like Dame Adelekun adding reinforcement to the starters. Both Des and Dame new commers to the Ramblers have found their groove in scoring when it matters. Dame in A10 conference play is just shy of 60% FG and Des leading Loyola with 15.5 ppg, both players have highlighted how impactful a transfer can be to a team looking to find itself in a new conference. One transfer from a year ago that has gotten his name filling the box score is Sheldon Edwards, who has never stopped looking to help the team. Edwards was not seen much but when Dawson went out Drew looked at the next man up and it was Sheldon. Edwards has started the last 4 games and in particular the last two had himself with 22 ppg & averaging 3 steals per game.
This has been a difference maker for Loyola so far this season and especially in conference play. Drew having the access to such a deep roster and efficient minutes on the court has been really fun to watch. From Miles finding himself as a rim protector, Jayden never quitting to find his shot, and again Sheldon being shown the spotlight is just really a joy to see.
Looking Ahead
Tonight the Ramblers face off against St. Joes, feels like the one A10 team we only play, 5th game against the Hawks since the inaugural A10 paly last season. As well Loyola looks to hit the 10 conference win milestone if they can hold off the Hawks in Gentile tonight. Already doubling their conference wins so far sitting at 9 but seeing 10 I feel would put a focus on the Loyola team many expected to see last year in Atlantic 10 year one.
