Coach Ford seemed concerned about the Billikens facing "the fastest team in America." He knew SLU couldn't simulate what Virginia Tech brings via tempo and offensive pressure. He has a squad of players all new to each other and somewhat untested despite two wins. But, he had his men ready.
After two early turnovers Coach Ford called a timeout about 2 minutes into the game, and whatever he said, worked. From that point forward SLU did not relent on defense, executed on offense, and was the superior squad on both ends of the floor. Jr. Javon Bess put together another stellar all around game scoring a team high 22, grabbing 9 rebounds, and going 12-15 from the free thrown line. His leadership and utter relentlessness from baseline to baseline again set the tone for the Bills.
Freshman Jordan Goodwin broke out of his early season shooting slump going 7-18 from the floor while turning in a double double with 19 points and 10 rebounds. The win was a perfect 20th birthday present for Jalen Johnson. He was part of a huge win at Madison Square Garden logging 31 minutes while providing 7 points and 5 boards.
A win of this nature, on this stage, against an ACC opponent most likely headed to the tourney changes the early expectations of the Billikens. They were picked by most to finish in the middle of the Atlantic 10, and make a March trip to the NIT. What these Billikens proved on Thursday night was that with their defense, leadership, and coaching, they can hang with anyone in the country.
Tonight, SLU takes on Providence from the Big East with a chance to take the 2K Challenge championship home. Though it is early, it is imperative that the Billikens keep this early season momentum going. They head back to MSG tonight with the opportunity to defeat their second power conference opponent in as many nights and head back to the Gateway to the West 4-0.
Perhaps then, the rest of the nation will start to take notice of the Billikens of St. Louis University.
