1-0 For the Billi-kids

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Tipping off the new season Saturday, it felt as if the Billikens were stepping into the void.  It's the unkown...finding out what you have versus what you thought you had.  The first game for the youngest team in division I...all sophomores and freshmen...what could such a young team achieve?

Out of the gate SLU presented a spirited, if flawed, product.  In a 59-41 victory over visiting SEMO the Billikens jumped out early, were reeled back in during a second half lull, and eventually put the Red Hawks away with an extended 16-3 run.  A run that was sparked by a transition three from Kyle Cassity.

The co-stars of the game were Billiken big men, Willie Reed and Brian Conklin.  The first half was all Eugene Enforcer and the second half was dominated by Big Willie.  The two combined for 30 points (15 each) and 20 rebounds on 11 of 15 shooting.   Reed netted the first double-double of his career and if the Bills are to win with any kind of consistency the big boys will have to stay out of foul trouble and on the floor.

You would figure that St. Louis U.'s strength is in the backcourt.  So far there have been flashes.  Kwamaine Mitchell will be a constant.  But after that one of the stories to watch is the development of the guards and the rotation that Rick Majerus will take into league play. Reid, John, Jordan and Salecich will get their opportunities.  Who will take advantage and get the minutes?  It's going to be fun and entertaining to watch.

SLU-Nebraska preview comes your way on Wednesday.