The good news is that the Lions played three halves of incredible, competitive basketball this weekend against two of the top teams in the West Coast Conference. The bad news is that despite playing hard, the team still comes out with an 0-2 record, bringing the Lions conference record to 1-3.
Now, in some ways, that record is skewed, as LMU has played the three toughest teams in the WCC already, just four games into the conference season. I fully expect the Lions to rattle off a five game win streak starting Saturday, especially if they play like they did up north this weekend.
The Portland game was unbelievable, and it's too bad the Lions don't have anything to show for it. What was encouraging to see, however, was how LMU's tough defense continued into the first half against Gonzaga yesterday, where it held the Bulldogs to just 35 points. Unfortuntely, it seemed that LMU just ran out of gas in the second half, melting down and allowing itself to be outscored by 20. But hey, the team was facing Gonzaga on the road; not an easy task.
It's important for fans not to be too disappointed about the 1-3 conference record, and really look at the tough schedule the team has already played. After a week off, the Lions will face Pepperdine on Saturday in Malibu, a place where LMU hasn't won in years. I expect that to change Saturday.
Also, it appears Godwin Okonji sat out yesterday's game due to swelling around his nose, after being elbowed in the game at Portland. He should be back for the game at Pepperdine.
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