Wichita State has been up and down as much as Creighton lately. While the Bluejays have had problems winning on the road, the Shockers have had their own troubles defending their home court. Last season the Shockers went undefeated at Koch Arena, making it an intimidating place. The Bluejays experienced it first hand last season with their “Black Out” game where Wichita State got a convincing 70-58 win.
This season is a bit different for Wichita State. They were chosen as the preseason Valley champ. Although they have for the most part lived up to those expectations, there have still been some breakdowns in games that they should have against top competition at home. They lost to Missouri State and Northern Iowa while suffering a big setback against bottom of the league Southern Illinois. They just recently lost their BracketBuster game against Virginia Commonwealth at home last Saturday. So as much as Creighton has struggled on the road, they do have an opportunity to step up and steal a game in Wichita.
It has been more than an month since the Shockers visited Omaha and during that time, Wichita State looks like a different team. Paul Suellentrop from the Wichita Eagle talked to us before the game in Omaha and he updates us on some things happening with the Shockers now.
White & Blue Review: Wichita State lost a heartbreaker the other night against VCU in BracketBusters. What kind of impact does it have on them for an NCAA Tournament bid? Should the MVC coaches take the BracketBusters more seriously?
Paul Suellentrop: Without question it badly damaged WSU’s at-large resume, which was already on the border. Did it kill it? I don’t know. I would hope MVC coaches do take BracketBusters seriously. If they don’t, it’s a problem
WBR: The Shockers, although sitting at the top of the league, has not had anyone win individual weekly honors this season. How have they been so successful without a “star” player?
PS: WSU has 10 players who would play, and in many cases start, for most MVC teams. Their depth has carried them. J.T. Durley is the closest thing WSU has to a star. He has really improved his defense and rebounding this season. When he makes threes, he is very hard to guard.
WBR: Winning games at home is important especially during conference play. However, the Shockers have lost a few games at home this season after going undefeated last season. What is different this year?
PS: I think it’s largely unexplainable. Winning on the road is the hardest thing to do in college basketball, and the Shockers are very good on the road. Perhaps they are a little too comfortable at home. Perhaps they rely on the crowd, or on a teammate to get things going. Regardless of the reason, it’s a problem. Had WSU went 2-2 instead of 0-4 in their home losses, they would be in good shape for an at-large spot and leading the MVC race.
WBR:Since the Booker Woodfox 1.9 game in the MVC Tournament a couple of seasons ago, the Shockers have sort of had the Bluejays number. Are they still motivated from that game?
PS: I think that sting of that game has faded. The Shockers can always find a reason to get motivated for Creighton. This time it’s senior night, the pressure is on to win at home after the losses and there’s the MVC race.
WBR: Wichita State has been looking to establish a point guard since the beginning of the season. Have they found that guy?
PS: It took Joe Ragland a longer than expected to claim that spot. He has done it and I think it helps WSU. He doesn’t make many turnovers, yet is also a quick player who can drive the lane and score. If he finds his three-point shot consistently, watch out.
WBR: What weaknesses can Creighton exploit Wednesday night that have plagued the Shockers all season?
PS: Playing the game in Wichita helps. I would force WSU to make jumpers. It has not shot well from three-point range in MVC games, although WSU has several guys who can make threes. A team can’t let WSU score inside. Teams have to keep WSU from running on turnovers or rebounds. If the Shockers get a lot of easy baskets on the break, it’s a big help for their offense.
WBR: There have been rumors that Gregg Marshall could be courted at the end of the season for a job in at a large conference school. Is Marshall a guy here for the long haul or is he likely to be lured away?
PS: I don’t think anyone knows. He stayed at Winthrop for nine years, so he doesn’t appear to be a serial job-hopper. I am sure he will be courted, especially if WSU makes the NCAA Tournament. From there, it may depend on the type of job that is available. I don’t get the feeling he is in a hurry to leave a good situation for a bad one in a bigger conference. It is interesting that these rumors keep coming from Omaha.
WBR: What does the MVC need to do in order to get back to a consistent multiple-bid conference? Is scheduling an issue?
PS: Recruit better players. Scheduling is an issue. I think it’s second behind talent. In 2006, Bradley had a lottery pick and finished fifth in the MVC.
WBR: What is your final prediction? What will Wichita need to do to protect their home court?
PS: WSU wins if it defends Gregory Echenique as well as it did in Omaha. The Shockers are due for a good shooting game from the outside.