Fun Start For the Billikens

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The first look at Rick Majerus' Billikens was a fun one!  Last Friday night St. Louis University played host to division II Arkansas-Ft. Smith and entertained a nice crowd in attendance.  (On a side note, the student section was out in full force and showed again why being on campus is such a slam dunk.)  Coach ran out the veterans (four sophomores and a redshirt) and five newcomers and they played in a manner that you would expect.  Great enthusiasm, good effort, some mistakes and more confidence as the game went along.

SLU's best player and leader Kwamain Mitchell was the lone Billiken that had a tough night.  Kwamain couldn't put the ball in the basket but, anyone who saw him play last year knows you won't have to worry about him.

Willie Reed dominated the game...nine for nine for the field including half a dozen dunks and Brian Conklin was his usual enforcer-like self despite early foul trouble. 

All of the newcomers contributed including lightning quick guard Justin Jordan, Mr. Kansas Basketball Jeff Reid looks like he can shoot it and Cory Remekun will be extremely valuable up front.

I really liked Jon Smith.  Listed as a forward though only 6-4, Smith had ten points and seven rebounds in 18 minutes.  I don't think Coach will do it but I'm intrigue by Smith at the three spot.  Long arms and very athletic I think he could give some other small forwards, even those taller, some real fits. 

And finally, I don't want to blaspheme but, Christian Salecich kind of reminded me of H Waldman.  Not so much in his look but more with the attitude.  As my broadcast partner, Earl Austin, Jr., put it, "The kids got moxie!".  You can tell he's already established great chemistry with Reed with whom he hooked up for three dunks.  Salecich added five assists and three steals and it really looks like he'll be big in the guard rotation.  Though I can already hear coaches lamenting about defensive lapses...stay tuned.

Oh, and one more thing.  It was good to see Femi John out there and playing well.  After the broken knee cap last year many would have folded up.  Femi worked his tail off and it shows.

The boys are back at it on Saturday afternoon against St. Ambrose.  I hope I see you there.