M. hoops on the offensive

By Richard Berger

With a balanced and explosive attack, the men's basketball team has been lighting up scoreboards and putting opposing defenses to shame all season. Averaging 82 points a game, up 20 points from last year, the Bulldogs have been a dominating force this fall.

In the past five days, the Bulldogs have played three games, a tough series in which the Bulldogs were victorious in two games, ending in a 90-54 triumph over Long Island University. Against LIU, everything fell into place for the offense, which shot 50 percent from the field, with four players scoring at least 13 points. The Bulldogs also dominated the glass, out-rebounding the Blackbirds 39-28. The key, however, was the effectiveness of Yale's defense, something that has been lacking in almost every game. The defense held the Blackbirds to under 34 percent shooting and a measly 54 points. "Our defense has been improving all season, and I think that the LIU game was another step in the right direction," Head Coach James Jones said.

REBECCA ROSENTHAL/YH The Bulldogs have enjoyed success this eyar with an improved offensive attack.

Before their convincing victory over LIU, the Bulldogs had split two hotly contested games against Army and Colgate, taking the first against Army. Against the Black Knights, six players scored in the double figures to propel the Bulldogs to an 83-73 victory, as Yale moved above .500 for the first time since Jones arrived at Yale. However, the Elis could not carry their offensive prowess into the Colgate game two days later, losing 87-75 in a tough match. Despite their strong effort, the Bulldogs had some defensive breakdowns, allowing the Red Raiders to shoot 50 percent from the field.

Despite the loss to Colgate, the players were pleased with their performance during the grueling stretch of games. "I can't be disappointed with how we played, winning two of three games," Captain Ime Archibong, TD '03, explained. "But I would say that there was a bit of letdown against Colgate." Forward Paul Vitelli '04 added, "We had a very rigorous schedule this week, but I think we held up fairly well. Unfortunately, our intensity fell and we got a little tired against Colgate."

Before their Ivy season opens, the Bulldogs have five more non-conference matches and the Poinsettia Holiday tournament. The key games will be against Jones' alma mater, Albany, and perennial ACC challenger, Clemson. As Archibong said, "The team is excited for some big games coming up, including the Poinsettia tournament and a match-up with Clemson. These games should prepare us well for the wide open Ivy League this year."

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