Well, my top takeaway, which I'm writing about for PSN today, is that I think the Dukes need some of their younger guys to step up as leaders.

Other than that, the Dukes spent a lot of time preparing for Fordham's unique defense. They've been playing a 3-man/tandem zone combination that has been working for them and puts a lot of stress on the four spot to be a distributor.

The young bigs still all look like young bigs, which is to say, inconsistent. Always takes times with bigger guys.

Mike Hughes is still not totally healthy. Fighting through it and you can tell. Keith said he may limit his minutes vs. Fordham.

Keith was hoarse, but it was a lot of instructing, not a lot of yelling. Fairly positive message to the team at the end. Focused on things like mental discipline.

Duques102 wrote:

Hey Alan,

How about 5 takeaways from today’s practice as it relates to the Fordham game or the rest of the A10 schedule?

Alan - any insights on the impact of M Lewis leaving has had on the team?  Chemistry? Expectations on PT? Practice?  Or no impact.

It's possible, but he was not practicing with the top group. Frankie Hughes was in at the 2 spot. Rotroff was the only sub the rotated in with the top group.

CLK wrote:

Alan, thanks, do you think we will be seeing more of Lamar Norman against Fordham? 

He's always around. I've seen him take a million free throws. Lol. He's usually smiling, seems very engaged and brings some good energy to the group when everyone else is worn down from practice. Obviously, it's impossible to make any kind of projection without seeing him go live against other players.

phil95 wrote:

Thanks Alan.

When you are around the facility & practice do you see James Ellis? Any insights on how he is doing?

The Tribune-Review posts a few interesting entries today in case anyone missed it. Just when you think the papers have forgotten .... there's a podcast and an article that also mentions the exploits of the Dukes football team on there.

https://triblive.com/sports/college/duquesne/