We were off the table this weekend without a game.  Out of sight and out of mind just as some are starting to pay attention to basketball.

The Duke’s, both basketball and football don’t do well with time off.  Same with our only two losses this year.  We lose intensity and focus.

The team maybe needed a break after the loss of M.A.’s sister.

Why no game that weekend?

Last edited by coffee (1/20/2020 12:16 pm)

At halftime of one of the A-10 games the Dukes were mentioned as doing well, but when talk came up about getting to the NCAA they mentioned Dayton, VCU, and St. Louis.  Duquesne was not mentioned on the telecast I saw.  But this stuff doesn't bother me.  It isn't time!!  If they keep winning, then they deserve to get in and they will be there.  If they start losing, then they won't get in.  It is that simple.  We don't have to worry about opinions or thoughts.  Win - you're in!  Lose a lot - you are out.
Go Dukes

PhoenixRising2 wrote:

Ironduke81 wrote:

Perfect look at the disrespect especially with the A10 teams ranked ahead. I would think the Dukes  should have motivation for the upcoming NE road trip swing. Except for Joey Brackets Duquesne gets zero recognition nationally. Can’t wait until Weds again RI. 

This has nothing to do with "respect", this has everything to do with statistical analysis.  Since KenPom designed the metrics, there is a KenPom bias toward what statistics he feels are important as a predictor.  Same goes with Bart Torvik, Eric Haslam, etc. etc.
The sloppy offensive performance against Fordham pulled down our overall rating; even the win on the road vs. GW didn't cause a bump up in our ratings due to again our inefficient offensive performance.

On the human side, the Dukes got 13 votes in the AP Poll this week; good for 38th.

And, here are the latest NCAA "Net" rankings through yesterday:
5 Dayton      45 VCU      54 Saint Louis      55 Duquesne      56 Richmond      61 Rhode Island   

If the Dukes beat Rhode Island, all of the above takes care of itself.    

This week's games are a giant opportunity to shine from both the statistical & PR standpoints.

6 A-10 teams in the NET's top 61 is very impressive almost 1/3 of the way into the conference season. If the Bonnies steal a big one or two, (hopefully not, against the Dukes) it is conceivable to finish the season with 7 teams in the top 60. Would that guarantee 4 league teams to Dance?

Two and one-half months into the season and the toughest games were vs. St. Louis and Davidson, both at home. I have no problem with any ranking at this point considering the fairly soft schedule thus far. The meat of the schedule begins Wednesday and the next 6 will be difficult. 4-2 would be great.

Last edited by wharfrat (1/20/2020 2:15 pm)

wharfrat wrote:

Two and one-half months into the season and the toughest games were vs. St. Louis and Davidson, both at home. I have no problem with any ranking at this point considering the fairly soft schedule thus far. The meat of the schedule begins Wednesday and the next 6 will be difficult. 4-2 would be great.

 
The trouble is we don’t have anyone other than Dayton assures of an invite.  Having teams in the 50s and 60s only means that they are close.

The A10 is dramatically improved this year too to bottom but we could still be a one team conference until someone makes a move into the 40s due to all the automatic qualifiers and bid stealers.

VCU, St. Louis, Richmond, Rhodes Island, and Duquesne would be sitting at home if the season ended today if Dayton wins the tournament.

Last edited by coffee (1/20/2020 6:48 pm)

Ironduke81 wrote:

Perfect look at the disrespect especially with the A10 teams ranked ahead. I would think the Dukes should have motivation for the upcoming NE road trip swing. Except for Joey Brackets Duquesne gets zero recognition nationally. Can’t wait until Weds again RI. 

I hear what you are saying my friend.  It is not so much about Pomeroy it is about the Dukes being motivated. I have been reading for weeks Rhode Island fans putting down the Dukes. Time to earn respect, and take these guys down. This is the opportunity for the Dukes to make a statement.  Absolutely no reason to come out flat, every reason to come out ready, rested and prepared to take care of business.  Go Dukes!