IWU 88 Hanover 76

While I left the Shirk Center Tuesday evening as concerned about IWU's perimeter defense as I was when I walked in, I saw a lot of good things in the win over Hanover.

• The Titans had to find a way to scrap and claw for a victory against a good team, while down in the 2nd half...and they did just that. They played with a lot of intensity the final 10 minutes of the game and that was nice to see.
• Brett Chamernik was good once again - 19 pts on 7-9 FG - very impressive.
• Doug Sexauer kept the Titans in the game with 4 consecutive baskets midway through the 2nd half - a very nice 14 point (7-10 FG) performance by Doug.
• Jordan Morris got back on track after a rough game at Chicago - 4-10 from 3, and 18 points. Jordan has really had a solid season so far overall.
• Darius Gant played like a 1st Team All-CCIW player for the final 10 minutes of the game. His offense, defense, and rebounding were all huge for the Titans down the stretch. If Darius could ever find a way to bring that level of intensity and focus every minute he is on the floor, he'd be hard for opponents to handle. I'd love to see it in the upcoming CCIW season.

The guys are all headed home today and will return on Christmas day. Then on the morning of Dec. 26 it's off to warm and sunny (hopefully) Los Angeles for two more great non-conference tests. Occidental and Claremont-Mudd-Scripps are solid Division III programs in a league (SCIAC) that keeps getting better.

I'll have more as we lead up to the trip. I hope everyone has a great holiday season!