Ramblermania.net

Still have a little nostalgia for the MVC. Watched SIU just dismantle a more athletic Missouri State team with just grind it out defense. Mullins and SIU are tied for first and there are 7 teams within two games of the lead with 6 games to go. 4 teams tied at 10-6 one at 9-7 and 3 at 8-6. The new teams are doing well with Belmont at 10-6 and Murray at 8-6. UIC is struggling at 2-12.

I watched part of that game as well. Drew's assessment that in the A10 teams have more talent and more guys you have to plan for is 100% true. We certainly would not be 2-8 in the MVC.

During the "Loyola Fan Club" podcast, Tom Welch basically said the MVC is more of a "chess match" that involves constant defensive adjustments and game planning. While the A10 more so lets their talented athletes make plays on offense.

I still like the MVC a lot. I think any of Drake, Bradley or SIU could win a game or two in the tourney. To me, they are the three best teams in the conference. All have a lot of experience, good coaching and stingy defense. A good combo in March!

I watched that SIU game as well. I really enjoy watching Coach Mullins lead his players. Both he and his program are headed in the right direction. I also have a warm spot in my heart for the MVC. The basketball is high-quality, the fans are dedicated and by the time a team survives the season and Arch Madness, they are ready to cause some serious trouble in the tourney. What will truly take the MVC to the next level is if/when they can consistently get multiple bids in the tournament. I remain convinced that the #2 team in the MVC will beat the #7 or #8 team from the Big10, Big12 or other P5 conference that is awarded too many bids.

PM and his Sooners are in 9th place in the Big XII and they just thumped #1 Alabama. The issue is, there are only 68 spots in the NCAA tourney.