Bears @ ODU, 6pm CST

[glm38]

Can't link it from my phone, but MSU's beat writer is predicting 23-9 (12-6) and at least the NIT.

No, seriously.

I think 20 wins is more likely but 23 wouldn't surprise me. The talent appears to be that good. But will team chemistry work out? And we are counting on several pretty young players coming through for us which is a risk.

I'd be shocked (bad pun intended) if we finish .500 or less.

[MSUDuo]

This game officaly kicks things off am I right?

Officially the Valley season? Yes, with ISU-R playing at the same time

There have already been other games elsewhere

[glm38]

In a bit of a surprise Lusk announced pre game he's going to start Austin Ruder alongside Marshall. So 2 freshmen in the starting lineup.

6 11 Tyler starting isn't a surprise but Ruder is. But I like given the way Ruder was lighting it up in the 2 exhibitions.

[CaseyGarrisonforPrez]

Can't link it from my phone, but MSU's beat writer is predicting 23-9 (12-6) and at least the NIT.

No, seriously.

I think that is a perfectly reasonable expectation. Lusk has his guys now and it's year 3. If we can stay reasonably healthy then 20+ wins is a stone cold lock. If we are a healthy bunch and we finish south of that benchmark then we need to take a really close look in the mirror at the direction of this program.

You hate to put a lot on a game in November, especially a road opener. Old Dominion isn't anything special. Year 3 coach with his guys against first year Jeff Jones and a bunch of guys brought in to play for Blaine Taylor. It should be us tonight and if it isn't, that's more of a commentary on our issues then it will be any great statement by the Monarchs or whatever they are called.

[CaseyGarrisonforPrez]

In a bit of a surprise Lusk announced pre game he's going to start Austin Ruder alongside Marshall. So 2 freshmen in the starting lineup.

I like Austin's game a lot. Local kid. Set the world on fire at Nixa High. I think he is ready right now.

[MSUDuo]

So far, nothing has changed. Bad basketball by 2 teams that were horrid last year.

Bears 13
ODU 14

7:36 left in the 1st

[Black]

Any stream for this one?

[MSUDuo]

Any stream for this one?

Negative. It was listed on FirstRowSports all day but come game time there was no working link.

Bears opened it up a little bit now

Bears 27
ODU 20

3:34 left in the 1st

Gulley with 7
Ruder with 6
Marshall with 4

[MSUDuo]

Bears 30
ODU 28

HALF

[glm38]

Bears getting to the hole almost at will but not finishing in there. Ruder with 2 for 3 on threes. We have to hit our FTs.