Loyola Ramblers didn't make NCAA Tournament, but are geared up for NIT quarterfinals
Head Coach Drew Valentine and the Loyola Ramblers missed out on making the NCAA Tournament despite a solid season in the Atlantic Ten.
But the Ramblers are making the most of a second chance to keep playing in March.
They are staying locked in as they prepare for the NIT quarterfinals in what has been a competitive tournament for them so far — having won the first two games by a combined four points.
"That refuse-to-lose attitude really comes into play," said Valentine. "Obviously, you've got to have a little luck too. But that mindset — if you have a really good mindset, I think, you know, we have a chance to win this time."
Jayden Dawson put up a career-high 35 points in San Francisco this past Sunday, when Loyola beat the University of San Francisco Dons 77-76. Playing deep into March was not something Dawson or the Ramblers was taking for granted.
"Man, there's no better time to play basketball than in March. I mean, if you're not motivated to play right now, then something's wrong with you for sure," Dawson said, "so, I mean, it's just fun."
"We didn't get where we wanted to, not going to the tournament, but we still got the opportunity to play, so it was like if we have the opportunity to play, we're going to try our best to win it," said Loyola guard Des Watson.
Loyola's game Wednesday against Kent State is another opportunity for the Ramblers to play a game at home in Rogers Park. They have had success all season at home, going 16-1 at the Gentile Arena.
