The fact that Loyola was in a serious contest against Horizon League powerhouse Butler late on the road is good enough for me. The fact that they were withing two possessions of pulling out a win at the historic Hinkle Fieldhouse for the third time in just a few years amazed me. Brad Stevens and his Bulldogs "dawged" it out though, and came out victors 63-57. The Ramblers fall to 6-19 and 1-14 (HL) for the year.
Ben Averkamp had a game high 23 points to go along with his 6 rebounds and 4 assists. Today was his first start after coming out of concussion like symptoms last week. Gibler got into some foul trouble which limited his game play forcing him to take a more timid approach late in the second half. Collectively, Loyola finished shooting 43% which considering how the season is going so far, isn't all that bad.
As 15.5 point underdogs, it's safe to say the Ramblers exceeded Butler's expectations. Ronald Nored, point guard extraordinaire, was held to only 6 points and was 0-4 from the field. This is the same guy that Porter Moser praised to no avail when Butler came to Rogers Park and defeated Loyola by the same exact score as today, 63-57. "He is totally in tuned to every single play. He epitomizes a winning mentality," Moser said.
Chrishawn Hopkins scored 13 points for Butler, while big man Andrew Smith and Khyle Marhsall each added 12. Butler was lights out from the field in the first half shooting 58%, but as Loyola began to make runs the Bulldogs shooting cooled down.
At the 7:52 mark in the second half, the score was actually tied up at 44 and the tempo was still in favor of Butler. Brad Stevens basketball acumen came out big time tonight and led his third place Horizon League team to a not so commanding win.
Looking ahead, Loyola will travel to Bradley University for the BracketBuster game. Not sure which bracket either of this teams would spoil, but hey it could end up being a viable chance for another Rambler win. After that, a game at Valpo then a couple more at home to round out the year. I know, it's almost over...finally.
Filed under: Game Summary
Tags: Ben Averkamp, Brad Stevens, Butler, college basketball, gentile arena, Hinkle Fieldhouse, horizon league, loyola university, ncaa, porter moser, ramblers
