I feel very encouraged by what I saw today. We got just about a full 40 minute effort from the boys and it showed. Even when Ark State made their run, we made them earn it rather than giving it away. Ball movement on offense was very good; we had a lot of open looks that didn't fall in the second half. Even in the post the ball was staying active. Thought the defensive effort was there throughout. If this is what we can bring on a consistent basis, we'll make some noise.

Highlights:

- Reggie had one of the best games of his career. 26 minutes, 6-10 from the floor, two blocks, a difference maker on defense, and he was flying down the court to look for fast break opportunities. Can't say enough about what he did today.

- Walter finds ways to make things happen. 9 rebounds to go with 12 points.

- Our bench outscored their 29-0. Again, we dominated the boards.

- Really like Nick off the bench.

Mediumlights:

- Ricardo earned today's start but struggled a bit. I like what he does on defense; he keeps his man in front of him.

- Stevie couldn't get shots to fall, but he's fearless about driving and I like that. I think 12-18 MPG is correct for him right now. He's exciting.

- Jon is not a scorer, but he had three offensive boards and he keeps the ball moving. Those are good guys to have.

- Ivo started off hot but disappeared after getting poked in the eye. It was bothering him the rest of the game.

Lowlights:

- TJ had 7 empty minutes. I'm OK throwing him some time in games like this so he can try to prove himself for later in the year.

- 14 assists to 15 turnovers.

Progress through the first 3 games is evident - I love the depth off the bench - and should only become even more of an assett.

Arkansas State, on paper, is the best team we've played this season. They were preseason favorites in their Sun Belt division, and we dominated this game from start-finish. I know it's early, but I'm quite impressed with our overall talent and poise.

Still haven't shot particularly well all year.  I hope this is more a product of not hitting our stride/randomness and they will start to fall at a greater rate, but a part of me fears it could have something to do with losing Devo & Tommy, 2 of our most accurate shooters last year.

Hard to argue it would be Tommy -- the team twice so far this year has done something we did a fair bit last season that I found amusing -- we shot a higher percentage from outside the arc than inside.  Did seem like a good, complete game against Ark. State today -- looking forward to watching on a second screen when they play Louisville during the Miami football game Tuesday night, and seeing how we match up with them on Friday.

Watch the game on-line and liked Offutt's effort.  at 6 three he had 9 rebounds. He plays bigger than his size.  Its gotta be a team effort on the glass and for those loose balls. That was a positive sign.  You watch Kent State and that's why they are always on top. They get the loose balls. Hope we get those 50/50 loose balls this years.  

Maybe not this early in the season...........