Today begins the real 'meat and potatoes' schedule for CAA basketball. CAA teams will be playing anywhere from 4 to 5 games in a matter of 12 days, maximum. With 5 games on tap today, this will be as fresh as these teams look for a while...depth will be tested; Injuries are virtually assured, minor as they may be. For teams entering on hot streaks, this is a chance to assert oneself as THE team in the CAA. For others, this is a chance to begin the season anew- one win tonight could propel a team's morale and level of play to new heights. For some, a continuation of the developmental process, with sights set to the 2012-13 season.
UD @ George Mason- IMO this is the game with the highest level of competition. George Mason has been one of the most dominant teams in the CAA over the past few years, and this year is no exception. With a 13-5 record, 5-1 in the Colonial, this is a top 4 team. Delaware is loaded with young talent, led by Junior Jamelle Hagins and Sophomore Devon Saddler. This team also features Freshmen Kyle Anderson and Khalid Lewis, and emerging Junior Josh Brinkley.
This game will be closer than most may think. These two teams match up pretty evenly, both in the paint and on the perimeter. Mason has more experience, but with freshmen on the court, you never know what to expect...
The difference tonight goes no farther than the records. Mason is 7-1 at home, while UD is 2-6 on the road. Until UD convinces me that they can win a road game against, at worst, an equal opponent, it will cripple their chances.
GMU 74,UD 67
GAST @ NE- Not a bad game by any standards, but Georgia State is just playing good basketball this season. And when your home record is 2-3, as is the case for NE, you need to prove you can defend your house. Tonight, I don't see it.
GAST 78, NE 60
Drexel @ Hofstra- After looking shaky early in the season, Bruiser Flint has his men playing their best basketball of the season at the moment. For Mo, his team is still searching for its first win in the CAA. Keep searching...
Drexel 66, Hofstra 58
JMU @ UNCW- This game, I believe, will provide the most entertainment of the night. Both teams possess similar records, but JMU is just 1-5 in CAA play. Both teams are coming in having lost their last two games. The key tonight will be UNCW's crowd. If they get loud, I believe it motivates the Seahawks to a win on their home court. If not, JMU pulls one out in a squeaker. Putting my faith in the crowd.
UNCW 70, JMU 68
ODU @ Towson- While its true that stranger things have happened, not many stranger things have indeed happened. Although ODU is developing a reputation as a slow starter, Pat Skerry's crew just don't seem to have what it takes to compete this year for 40 minutes in the CAA.
ODU 65, Towson 42
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