Rider  got a rather unimpressive win last night against Kutztown (D2 I think).  They pulled out a 2 point win after trailing by 14 at the half.  But - let’s not take anyone lightly while we see what we have.

I'm not seeing Jett Roesing on the Rider roster.

He was apparently redshirted but now seems to be off team

kcc173 wrote:

He was apparently redshirted but now seems to be off team

https://www.trentonian.com/2021/10/14/rider-mens-basketball-center-tyrel-bladen-out-for-season-with-torn-acl/

“Sophomore guard Jett Roesing, a transfer from Duquesne, is no longer with the team as he takes a leave of absence. The roster stands at 13 players.”

Mine exactly.  I do think Hima, Larson, Barba, and Bekelja will all see action for 3 minutes or a little more.

Acuff and Okani are the only guys I expect to start.   I will be learning the new guys as much as you all are.   Nothing will shock me lineup-wise or for playing time.  I just want to see good players and wins.   That and good nachos and cold, cold beer.   

Good luck tonight.   Last year Rider was one of the youngest teams in the country and with no summer workouts, and many Covid stops they were a mess defensively.   Also because they had no depth, they were worn out by the second day of back to back games.  (MAAC played *on Saturdays and Sundays) 

Rider probably has the best one/two punch in the MAAC with Dimencio  Vaughn (transferred back from Ole Miss and Dwight Murray).  Murray did not play in the exhibition game.  Rider biggest issue is depth and size.  They only had 2 players over 6-8, and one went down with a ACL tear.  

In regard to Jett Roesing, I heard he took time away from school for a mental health issue.     

Looks like Spears is starting.

Gonna be a long year.   Lack of rebounding is scary.   Absolutely no post presence.   Hima is big enough and at least poses a threat defensively.    Student section is good tonight.   How many come back?

Hey, we're making free throws.

When's the last time you saw a perfect night from the stripe? 13-13 if I recall correctly. 

That said, too many missed rebounds, rushed shots and defensive lapses. Those will disappear over time.

My biggest positive of the night. It was something like a one point game at about seven minutes and the Dukes took charge and put them away. Can't recall that one happening very much over the last few years.

Nice win, despite the warts.
 

Thought it was a good first game overall. Lots of talent on the court for the Dukes. Had me worried early on but the cream rose to the top as it always does. Give this group another 5 or 6 games together and I believe we will see a top 6 A-10 team especially with Gunn and Rotroff back on the court.