When Dreams Become Reality

Throughout my eight year managerial career - 4 years in High School and 4 in College - tonight's game against Kentucky was quite simply the biggest game I have ever experienced. The Marist basketball team opened the '11-'12 season playing Kentucky at their Rupp Arena, and from the moment we walked through the door for practice (last night) and for shoot-around (this morning) the historicity of the building weighted on you. Not only is this the biggest college arena I have ever in, but Kentucky, as a program, also has one of the most powerful and successful college basketball histories since 1950. Playing in front of 24,000 fans still feels like a dream. Kentucky's introductions were the most spectacular I have ever seen live, as fireworks shot off in the arena while the Wildcats were being introduced alongside a highlight video and laser show.

As far as the game went, Marist could not have asked for a better first half against #2 Kentucky. Going into the locker room at the half, we were only down 9 against a perennial powerhouse. Freshman point guard Isaiah Morton lead the Red Foxes in scoring, putting up 13 points with only one turnover, and Dorvell Carter added 12. Unfortunately, the size and length of the Kentucky players was unstoppable and they clearly deserve their #2 national ranking. You simply have to give it up to Kentucky, who essentially closed out the game six minutes into the second half with back to back dunks that gave the crowd enormous amounts of energy leading to a 30-6 run. Anthony Davis led the way for the Wildcats with 23 points. Kentucky finished the game with 108 while Marist put up 58.  Even though we lost by 50, I am excited to see what this year brings. Base off of the positives of the first half, we clearly look much more developed than we did last year and believe we will continue to make progress.

Patrick Patterson, who played for Kentucky two years ago (and was eventually drafted by the Houston Rockets), was in attendance tonight and received a very warm welcome during a media timeout.

This was my first time in Lexington, Kentucky and I have had a great experience thus far. Everyone I have met has been extremely friendly and helpful, especially the Kentucky managers who have helped us out with our laundry and the hotel workers who have been extremely accommodating. Tomorrow we head to Florida and take on the University of South Florida from the Big East Conference (Monday night, 11/14, at 7:30pm).

In the meantime, hope everyone is enjoying the start of this year's college basketball season.