Joe Gavazzi
Arizona -13.5
The tradition lives on at Valpo. For the second time, legendary HC Homer Drew has retired to turn the program over to one of his sons. He did so with Scott in 2002, then returned when Scott moved to Baylor. Now he's retiring to hand the reins to his son Bryce who has worked as an assistant with his dad for the last 6 years. It was another vintage season for the Crusaders last year. They posted a 23-12 mark, including 12-6 in the Horizon. This year, however, 3 of their top 4 scorers depart including all-league guard Brandon Wood who transferred to Michigan State. The 2 returning starters averaged only a combined 13 PPG. Though the line-up will be reinforced by JUCO Edwards and D-1 transfers Bogan and Boggs (not eligible until December 17) there will be a learning curve with so many new players. Such is not the case for Arizona HC Miller. Following his 30 win season last year, Miller was courted by other big name schools. But he chose to stay at Arizona for the long term. There is no question he will miss future NBA star Derrick Williams and transferred point guard Momo Jones who left for Iona (family considerations). Enter frosh PG Turner to run the show for a team that will go at least ten deep. Again, this will be a Top Ten team, much like the Elite Eight team of last season. It's that coaching continuity and depth which get the cover tonight against the not-yet-ready-for-primetime Valpo team.