Why Rhody MBB Could Go Far in the 2018 NCAA Tournament
First, I addressed why Rhody MBB could go home early in the 2018 NCAA tournament. Now, I will bring up points as to why the Rams could go make a deep run in the tournament.
To begin, it is possible that URI could have vintage E.C. Matthews show up.
Seniors are expected to play every second in the NCAA tournament like it's their last and for the five Rhode Island seniors, they are not an exception. Based on the play of URI's five seniors alone, they can carry their team to multiple wins. "Batman and Batman" are all-conference players in the Atlantic 10 and they can shoulder much of the scoring load. Realistically, Andre Berry carried the Rhode Island offense through their shooting struggles in the 2018 Atlantic 10 tournament. Stanford Robinson has done all of the little things for his team this season and he already had an epic scoring performance in last season's NCAA tournament. Last but not least, Jarvis Garrett brings great leadership off of the bench and he is a capable outside scorer.
Unlike in past seasons, Rhode Island is a deeper team. Cyril Langevine, Jarvis Garrett, Daron "Fatts" Russell, and Nicola Akele can give the Rams a significant boost off of the bench. In particular, Langevine has the capability of being a force on the boards on both ends of the floor. Any scoring that the East Orange native provides is an added bonus. Meanwhile, Garrett and Russell can be brought in to speed up the pace of the game by pressuring the ball like pests and they have both been looked at to hit key jumpers from the perimeter. Lastly, Akele seems more prepared to contribute in postseason play this season than last season.
Additionally, every player in Rhode Island MBB's rotation, besides Russell has NCAA tournament experience from last season. There is something to be said for possessing a wealth of experience in the Big Dance. After defeating Creighton in first round last season and having Oregon on the ropes in the second round, they know what it takes to survive and advance. The agonizing defeat to the Ducks should be implanted in the minds of all of the returning players and that should serve as fuel for them. While Russell is only a freshman, he already has three games in the Atlantic 10 tournament under his belt and he is clearly never afraid of the big moment.
After all of the recent doubt surrounding them and heartbreaking losses to Saint Bonaventure, Saint Joseph's, and Davidson (twice), this Rhode Island team should be as motivated as ever. The Rams are losing "fans", supporters, and believers by each passing second. Dan Hurley's team has to work harder and fight harder than ever before.
Despite recent struggles, the Rams have the ability to feast in the 2018 NCAA tournament.
