Horizon League Update
By James Patrick
Playbook.com
The Cleveland State Vikings are currently struggling with the replacement of an inside presence in their line-up. That presence has been a challenge for the Vikings as opponents have taken advantage of HC Gary Waters team on the inside on both ends of the floor. This season's Cleveland State team has talent, but the results on the court have not been consistent. When the CSU defensive pressure creates a turnover which leads to an "easy" basket, it's Vikings Basketball at its best but when CSU has to play in the half court, the young newcomer are hesitant and are rarely able to generate an open shot. If CSU hits a scoring lull in games, each player appears to begin to press. This group of players under the direction of Coach Waters and his staff will continue to get better as the season progresses and they will "finish strong".
In the meantime, the Horizon League has gotten much stronger at the bottom, with UIC, Loyola and Wright State all much improved over last season. Last year's regular season winner, Valparaiso, seems to be up and down while Green Bay has not been playing up to their potential. Youngstown State had some impressive early season wins and can really shoot the basketball. Milwaukee has struggled but Detroit looks to be the strongest team. Detroit has the most pure talent and on any given day, the most upside. The action should make for a great league race this season without the Butler Bulldogs in the mix.