After two terrible wins against Ivy League opponents
Princeton and Columbia, SJU needed to step up their game and prove that they
can compete. The Hawks proved this last Sunday against a strong Temple team,
beating them in overtime 66-65. However, this was not enough, Hawk fans
everywhere needed to see more. Today
against Illinois State, we saw an offensive monster. With about 3:27 left in
the 1st half, it went from a close game to a blow out.
The Hawks were able to put on an impressive showing today
against Illinois State. The Hawks shot 46.6% from the field and 45.5% from long
range. This was shooting that was unprecedented from any game prior. This by
far was the best all around offensive showing that the Hawks have had all
season. They not only impressed with their shooting ability but, with their
ability on the defensive side of the ball. Though Illinois State, may not be
the greatest opponent this was a much-needed win for the Hawks. There was no
doubt coming into this game that the Hawks should win, but by how much was the
question. SJU really proved that they do have the offensive capability to
compete in the A-10.
Though there was a lot of good to take out of today’s game,
there was some bad as well. The Hawks failed to hold their large lead late in
the game. A lead that was hovering right around 30 for most of the 2nd
half disappeared. This was mainly due to the fact that St. Joe’s best player
DeAndre Bembry came out of the game. The Hawks need to learn how to adjust when
their captain is not in the game. We also saw struggles from Lamarr Kimble as
well, forcing Shavar Newkirk to leave the bench during the time when he should
have been sitting. The Hawks need to learn how to play with only one or two
starters on the court that are not named Bembry, Miles or Newkirk. Coach Martelli
needs to have the team work on this before A-10 play begins.
Going into today’s game Hawk fans were shaking their heads
with the recent play of their team. St. Joe’s proved that they can once again
beat a bad team by a lot, however the question is now how will they fair
against A-10 opponents. The Hawks face off on Tuesday with another out of
conference team Virginia Tech, in what should be a hard fought game. We look
forward to seeing St. Joe’s can continue their dominance on the court.
-Brett
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