Comments on Bradley vs Upper Iowa

I was having a discussion with a devoted Bradley fan about Bradley's performance against Upper Iowa.  The concern was about rebounding and how it is a reflection of desire and effort on the team.  I agree that 1 offensive rebound is not good enough, but we are in preseason year 2 of the Geno Ford era and it was an exhibition.  Exhibition games are meant to work out the kinks before the season starts.  The exhibition provided a great deal of information on things that need to be focused on in practice.  Let's look at some positives from Upper Iowa.

• Bradley shot 56% (25-45) for the game
• Bradley shot 59% (10-17) from 3-point range
• Bradley forced 24 turnovers
• Bradley had a 20 point lead and won by 14 points while sitting 3 regular players. 

The team you saw play against Upper Iowa is not the team you will see for the balance of the season.  You, the fans, have not seen this team play as a complete group.  In speaking to Geno, this team is already way ahead of last year's team with regards to playing together and having a sense of team.  Is the team where it needs to be yet?  No, but change takes time.  While exciting change is happening at Bradley, it may not translate into a lot more wins this season.

Remember this?  This was my career at Bradley University.
1991-1992          7-23
1992-1993          11-16
1993-1994          22-8      NIT
1994-1995          20-10    NIT
1995-1996          22-8      MVC conference champion, NCAA

I have seen the rebuilding process first hand.  I know it is hard now, but you have to believe in the process.  Bradley will be a power in the Valley again.  Go Braves!