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I have to say, that was a really, REALLY good game tonight, easily one of the best I can remember being played at the Mabee Center in years. I thought both teams showed a lot of grit all night long, I thought both coaches had solid game plans, and even the refs had a good night. I just think UND made several huge plays down the stretch that made the difference. For the life of me, I don't understand why UND does not win more games. They're tough, they're well-coached, they execute, and tonight they hit a ton of big baskets when they had to have them. How on earth did they lose by 24 to UMKC last weekend? And, while you all know I NEVER pass up a chance to throw Coach Mills under the bus when I think he deserves it, I gotta say I don't think he made any huge gaffes down the stretch tonight (though this does go down as yet another close-game loss on his record). Max just had a bad last minute, turning the ball over in a last-shot scenario with the game tied, and getting his shot blocked at the buzzer from out top. Maybe he was exhausted at that point? They beat the hell out of him all night, which frankly he can expect from every single Dakota school on the schedule. That's simply how they play, and how they win. My only observation for Saturday night would be to urge Glasper to be more aggressive (even late in the game) to keep the defense honest, give Max a breather in the second half so he's not so spent at the end when you need him most, overplay Rebraca's right hand in the post (he only goes right 100% of the time, BTW), and throw in a little full-court pressure or half-court trap on defense to speed the Hawks up a bit. Otherwise, I see no reason not to expect another slug-fest that comes down to the wire again.

UND brought their A game: pounded it inside, kept the game in the low 70s and guarded the three point line tough. Then they put a 6'7 guy on Max and it was a real struggle for him. That is how teams should play the Eagles. Rebecca really took it to K.O. and outplayed him in the second half. UND seemed really hungry and played well. On a side note: every game in conference play was decided by six, two, two, and one. So most nights are going to be real battles across the Summit.