SLU vs. Texas A&M-CC: Start Time, TV, and Thoughts
By Paul Lamb
SLU returns to Chaifetz arena Sunday to open play in the Corpus Christi Coastal Classic. Their first contest will be against the host school, Texas A&M Corpus Christi. Yes, it is odd that they’re not playing this game in Corpus Christi, since it’s their tournament, but can’t complain over an extra home game. Here’s a couple things to watch for on Sunday:
Austin McBroom vs. John Jordan
The Islanders come into the game 1-1 on the season, having defeated Our Lady of the Lake (NAIA), but having fallen to Georgetown, a game which they played a lot closer than most would have expected. For the Islanders, they’ll have to be solid defensively against All-Southland Conference guard John Jordan. Averaging 16 points and 5 assists so far this year, he’s a very versatile player. Should be an interesting test for Austin McBroom.
Height Advantage
The Islanders only have one player standing above 6’8”, and that’s Slovakian-born Viktor Juricek, who was just granted eligibility by the NCAA last week. As we know, the Bills have 3 giants that stand over 6’8, Gillmann, Manning, Jolly. All three should be able to have their way rebounding, offensively and defensively. Second chance points are crucial, and could be the deciding factor in this game. The height advantage helps sway that towards the Bills.
Injuries
Grandy Glaze looks like he’ll be missing his 3rd straight game with a vague shoulder injury. His absence doesn’t help the Bills, as his experience and size in the middle could wear an opposing defense down. There’s no guarantee of the impact, but, plain and simple, he needs to be back in action shortly. Another injury to keep an eye on is Austin McBroom’s wrist. After McBroom had a tough game against Indiana State, Coach Crews said he was unaware of any problems with McBroom’s wrist. But still, it had an impact on that matchup, and could affect this one.
It comes down to what combinations work, and who can step up. This isn’t a team that’s going to drop 90 points in a game, or hold opponents to 40. It should be a gritty, tough played, close-matchup. Most of all, it’ll be great entertainment. Lastly, the winner of this game takes the lead of the all-time series, as this is their first ever meeting.
Start Time: 1:00 p.m. CST
Location: Chaifetz Arena, SLU
Watch: Fox Sports Midwest
Listen: 1380 am